bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Saffron Supplementation on Glycolipid Metabolism and Blood Pressure in Patients With Metabolic Syndrome and Related Disorders: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Zhang Xiaolei , Miao Jinxin , Song Yagang , Miao Mingsan
Published: February 2025

Saffron is a traditional herbal medicine used to treat conditions associated with metabolic syndrome (MetS). However, the conclusions of relevant clinical studies have been inconsistent. This study aimed to assess the impact of saffron supplementation on the metabolism of glycolipids and blood pressure in individuals with MetS and related disorders. Web of Science, PubMed, Cochrane Library, Scopus, and Embase were comprehensively searched for studies investigating saffron supplementation for MetS and related disorders up to February 2024. Stata 17.0 was used to conduct the Meta‐analysis. Twenty‐five randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were included in this study, involving 1486 participants with MetS and related conditions. Compared to placebo, saffron supplementation triggered significant reductions in fasting blood glucose (FBG) (WMD: −6.67 mg/dL; 95% CI: −10.55, −2.78; p = 0.001; I2 = 50.0%), glycosylated hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) (WMD: −0.25%; 95% CI: −0.35, −0.14; p < 0.001; I2 = 0.0%), total cholesterol (TC) (WMD: −4.77 mg/dL; 95% CI: −8.83, −0.71; p = 0.021; I2 = 31.8%), systolic blood pressure (SBP) (WMD: −1.15 mmHg; 95% CI: −1.66, −0.64; p < 0.001; I2 = 41.8%), and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) (WMD: −1.61 mmHg; 95% CI: −1.88, −1.34; p < 0.001; I2 = 7.0%). However, no significant changes were observed for homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance (HOMA‐IR), triglyceride (TG), low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL‐C), high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL‐C), body mass index (BMI), and waist circumference (WC). Saffron supplementation has an improving effect on FBG, HbA1c, TC, DBP, and SBP in patients with MetS and related disorders. Nonetheless, additional high‐quality RCTs involving diverse ethnic populations are necessary to validate this effect.
Enhancing Human Post‐Exposure Rabies Prophylaxis in Canine Rabies Endemic Regions With an Interactive Web Solution
Authors: Belsare Aniruddha V. , Briggs Deborah J. , Gongal Gyanendra , Mani Reeta S. , Rupprecht Charles E.
Published: February 2025

Despite the availability of effective biologics, rabies continues to impact several low‐ and middle‐income countries. More than 50,000 people succumb to rabies every year due to the lack of timely and appropriate post‐bite care. Biologics used in post‐exposure prophylaxis, such as rabies vaccine, rabies immune globulins, and rabies monoclonal antibodies, are not readily available and often in short supply in the developing world, especially in Asia and Africa, where rabies is endemic in domestic dog populations and poorly controlled. Moreover, many healthcare professionals in these settings have less than ideal knowledge of current post‐exposure prophylaxis guidelines. To combat this, we have integrated current post‐bite prophylaxis guidelines and accurate information about the availability of rabies biologics into an interactive, user‐friendly web application, ZeroRabiesApp (ZRA). Designed as a point‐of‐care tool for treating dog bite cases, ZRA generates a customized post‐exposure prophylaxis schedule using the user‐provided date of exposure. The schedule is based on the latest guidelines developed by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The ZRA also provides access to the rabies biologics database that can be used to find the nearest locations where rabies biologics needed for post‐exposure prophylaxis are currently available. The freely available app can offer a simple, real‐time, and local solution to prevent human rabies deaths following potentially rabid exposures like dog bites.
Remediation of Iron Ore Tailings From Brumadinho (Brazil), Polymeric Waste From Polyester Fabrics and From PET Bottle Powder Based on the Production of Ecological Bricks
Authors: da Silva Hélio Elias , Filho Nelson Roberto Antoniosi
Published: February 2025

Mining activities generate large amounts of waste in the form of mud that is disposed of in containment dams. When such dams collapse, serious accidents can happen, like the one that occurred in Brumadinho, Minas Gerais, Brazil, killing 272 people and contaminating rivers and large areas of native forests. On the other hand, there are also two types of plastic waste which after production and use are disposed of in the environment or landfills, causing contamination and leading to the release of microplastics: (1) scraps from the textile industry and (2) polyethylene terephthalate (PET) plastic packaging. This work presents a proposal for the remediation of three waste materials (iron ore tailings, polyester fabric waste, and PET plastic waste). In this sense, two kinds of bricks were produced, one of them combining iron ore tailings and polyester fabric wastes, and the other, combining iron ore tailings and PET plastic wastes. Both the bricks were evaluated for the construction of social housing. The results show that these bricks are similar to soil‐cement bricks, with which windbreak walls and walls of residential buildings can be built, supporting all the loads concerning a popular Brazilian housing project. It can be said that a new composite material has been developed, with appropriate technical properties such as compressive strength and water absorption, to reduce these three environmental liabilities and the consumption of virgin raw materials, normally removed from the environment, in addition to reducing the release of those pollutants into the environment.
Featured Cover
Authors: Palmquist Emily C. , Deemer Bridget R. , Metcalfe Anya N. , Kennedy Theodore A. , Bair Lucas S. , Fairley Helen C. , Grams Paul E. , Sankey Joel B. , Yackulic Charles B.
Published: February 2025

The cover image is based on the article eZ flow metrics: Using z‐scores to estimate deviations from natural flow in the Colorado River below Glen Canyon Dam by Emily Palmquist et al., https://doi.org/10.1002/rra.4360.

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An empirical equation for sediment transport capacity of overland flow: Integrating slope, discharge, and particle size
Authors: Pereira Ryan , Gharabaghi Bahram , Bonakdari Hossein , Safadoust Azadeh
Published: February 2025

Accurate estimation of sediment transport capacity is crucial for effective soil erosion modeling and management. While empirical methods offer a practical approach for calculating sediment transport capacity using limited data, existing equations often lack reliability and applicability across a broad range of scenarios. This study addresses this gap by developing an empirical equation based on extensive datasets encompassing a wide spectrum of hydraulic and physical conditions ranging from slopes (1%–45%), unit flow discharges (0–15 × 10−2 m2 s−1), and median particle sizes from (0.021–10.5 mm). The proposed equation integrates slope, discharge, and particle size to predict sediment transport capacity, leveraging advanced machine learning techniques. It was rigorously tested against other empirical equations, demonstrating superior performance with a coefficient of determination (R2) of 0.99 and a Nash‐Sutcliffe efficiency of 0.99. The equation's strong alignment with physical sediment transport principles, particularly its similarity to stream power equations, underscores its theoretical robustness and practical relevance. Findings indicate that sediment transport capacity increases with discharge and slope while decreasing with particle size. Notably, rainfall intensity and flow depth did not significantly impact sediment transport capacity, emphasizing the equation's focus on the most influential variables. This research presents a significant advancement in sediment transport modeling, providing a reliable and accurate tool for a wide range of conditions and contributing valuable insights for soil erosion and sediment management. Future work should involve further validation with additional datasets to enhance the equation's applicability and robustness.
Investigation of Compounds Found in Ginger (Curcuma longa L.) as Inhibitors for PTP1B for the Treatment of Type 2 Diabetes Using Molecular Docking and Molecular Dynamics Approaches
Authors: Ercan Selami , Arslan Gökçe Çiçek , Pirinççioğlu Necmettin
Published: February 2025

Although it is known that insulin resistance is caused by defects in insulin signaling, the underlying mechanisms are not known in detail. Protein–tyrosine phosphatase 1B, a negative regulator of leptin and insulin signaling pathways, is known to be an effective target in the treatment of type 2 diabetes. This study involves the screening of 30 natural compounds found in ginger as an alternative drug against protein‐tyrosine phosphatase 1B by means of molecular docking, molecular dynamics and MM‐PB(GB)/SA methods. 12 compounds had comparable docking scores (−5.7 kcal/mol to −9.2 kcal/mol) compared to the available protein–tyrosine phosphatase 1B inhibitors with docking scores −8.9, −9.4, and −10.0 kcal/mol. In addition to promising docking results, molecular dynamics and binding free energy calculations approved that ginger compounds could have inhibition effects on protein–tyrosine phosphatase 1B enzyme, where 22M2 ligands showed the best binding with the value of −43.42 kcal/mol according to MM–PBSA method. As a result, some compounds from natural sources may serve models for the drug design against protein–tyrosine phosphatase 1B, which is an important target in the treatment of type 2 diabetes.
Exploring the Reaction Surface of Cu(I) Transfer from Atx1 to Ccc2a Protein: A Theoretical Study
Authors: Sundar J. Vijaya , Jesni M. Jacob , Rajapandian Varatharaj , Prakash Muthuramalingam , Subramanian Venkatesan
Published: February 2025

In this study, a detailed mechanism for the copper transfer between the yeast Atx1 and Ccc2a (P‐type‐ATPase) is proposed. To explore the potential energy surface (PES) of the reaction pathway, the density functional theory (DFT)‐based B3LYP/6‐31+G**∪Lanl2DZ method was used for the active site model. The effect of protein environment on the reaction pathway was unraveled by Our own N‐layered Integrated molecular Orbital and molecular Mechanics (ONIOM model) using B3LYP/6‐31+G**∪Lanl2DZ:UFF method. Results obtained from the calculations unveil the formation of kinetically stable 3‐coordinated intermediate IM3(ONIOM). It also provides information on the irreversibility of Cu(I) transfer from Atx1 to Ccc2a domain. The proposed mechanism enables us to understand the rate‐determining step and activation barrier of the transfer, which is 14.15 kcal/mol for active site model and 22.87 kcal/mol for ONIOM model. It is evident from NBO analysis that the interaction between K65‐Atx1 and Cu(I)–S3 unit is mediated by the water molecule, which is responsible for the stabilization of the 3‐coordinate intermediate (IM3). These results provide a new insight into the Cu(I) transfer mechanism in chaperones.
Noncovalent Interactions and Physicochemical Properties of an 8‐Hydroxyquinolinium‐Bromoferrate (III) Hybrid Material: Experimental and Computational Approaches
Authors: Jellali Aycha , Haouas Amel , Karâa Najla , Hamdi Besma , Hajji Melek
Published: February 2025

A novel organic‐inorganic ferrate (III) hybrid compound, bis(8‐hydroxyquinolinium) tetrabromoferrate (III) bromide [(8‐HQ)₂FeBr₄]Br, was synthesized at room temperature via the slow evaporation method. Single‐crystal X‐ray crystallography, coupled with Hirshfeld surface analysis, revealed that the noncovalent hybrid assembly is governed by classical (O─H···Br and N─H···Br) and unconventional (C─H···Br) hydrogen bonding, as well as π‐stacking interactions. Notably, a unique Anion···π interaction between the [FeBr₄]⁻ anion and the hydroxyquinoline heterocycle was observed. Furthermore, a multi‐approach quantum mechanical method with dispersion‐corrected DFT (ωB97X‐D/aug‐cc‐pVTZ) was employed to analyze all identified noncovalent interactions, providing insights into their strength and nature. In addition, vibrational characteristics and optical properties were investigated using Infrared and Raman spectroscopies, as well as UV–visible and photoluminescence (PL) techniques. Finally, frontier molecular orbital (FMO) and Mulliken charge analyses were performed to determine the electronic features of the compound. A strong agreement was found between the experimental and theoretical findings.
Preparation of Mixed Matrix Membranes Based on Covalent Organic Frameworks for Dye Separation from Water
Authors: Lin Menghao , Wang Linghao , Li Wei , Chen Li , Chen Jiangrong , Yan Hao , Zhou Peizhang , Dong Lichun , Zhou Cailong
Published: February 2025

The pure organic nature and nanoporous structure of covalent organic frameworks (COFs) position them as promising candidates for mixed matrix membranes (MMMs). In this study, we synthesized TFB‐BD(Me)2 COFs as a nanofiller to fabricate MMMs for water treatment. The TFB‐BD(Me)2 particles exhibited significantly high crystallinity, high BET surface area, and uniform particle size, and could be synthesized at low temperature. We conducted a comprehensive investigation into the membrane structure, properties, and dye separation performance of the TFB‐BD(Me)2‐incorporated MMMs. Our results demonstrate that MMMs containing 1.0 wt% TFB‐BD(Me)2 exhibited enhanced water permeance and dye rejection, overcoming the traditional trade‐off between permeability and selectivity in polymer membranes. These next‐generation COFs‐based MMMs offer high efficiency, resource conservation, and cost‐effectiveness, showing great potential for practical water purification applications.
2‐(3‐Iodo‐4‐Methylphenyl)‐4‐(aryl)oxazol‐5(4H)‐one Analogs: Synthesis, Anticancer Screening, SAR, in silico Molecular Docking, and ADMET Studies
Authors: Patel Umang P. , Unjiya Parth S. , Rathod Vaishali K. , Dabhi Ranjitsinh C. , Trivedi Vidhi A. , Shah Manish K.
Published: February 2025

In this study, ten analogues of 2‐(3‐iodo‐4‐methylphenyl)‐4‐(aryl)oxazol‐5(4H)‐one (3a‐j) were synthesized using the Erlenmeyer reaction condition, achieving satisfactory yields of the 5‐oxazolone scaffold. The process involved coupling 3‐iodo‐4‐methylbenzoic acid with tert‐butyl glycinate to form tert‐butyl (3‐iodo‐4‐methylbenzoyl) glycinate (1), followed by ester hydrolysis to obtain (3‐iodo‐4‐methylbenzoyl) glycine (2). Condensation of compound (2) with various aromatic aldehydes yielded the desired derivatives (3a‐j). The compounds were characterized using various spectroscopic techniques. To evaluate their potential, the anticancer activity of compounds (3a‐j) was assessed against nine panels of different cancer cell lines following the National Cancer Institute (NCI US) protocol at a concentration of 10−5 M. Growth percentage (GP) and percentage growth inhibition (PGI) were calculated for each compound. Additionally, the new analogues were subjected to molecular docking studies to explore their interactions within the active binding site of 7JKZ and 6YID target protein, aiming to understand their binding modes and the favourable interactions of the active compounds. Furthermore, ADMET predictions revealed that most of the synthesized compounds displayed drug‐like properties with minimal adverse effects and toxicity. These results represent substantial progress in cancer research and offer promising potential for future advancements.
G‐Series Agents Studied via Molecular Dynamics Simulations
Authors: Chalaris Michail , Koufou Antonios
Published: February 2025

G‐series nerve agents, including sarin, soman, and tabun, are highly toxic organophosphorus compounds that pose a significant threat to global security due to their devastating physiological effects and potential for widespread harm. These agents act by irreversibly inhibiting acetylcholinesterase, disrupting neural communication and causing severe outcomes such as respiratory failure and death. Despite their classification as prohibited substances under the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC), their use in conflicts and terrorist activities underscores the urgent need for advanced research to develop effective countermeasures. This study employs molecular dynamics simulations to investigate the physicochemical properties and molecular behavior of sarin, soman, and tabun. Detailed models are developed to predict thermodynamic parameters, such as density and diffusivity, as well as molecular interactions. While sarin has been extensively studied, the novel models for soman and tabun address significant gaps in the literature, offering a deeper understanding of their unique structural and dynamic characteristics. The findings provide critical insights for the development of detection technologies, neutralization strategies, and decontamination protocols. By integrating computational approaches, this research advances the safe and ethical study of toxic agents, contributing to global efforts to mitigate the risks associated with chemical warfare agents.
Enhancing the Efficiency of CZTS Solar Cells With Dual HTL Configuration and a Novel Buffer Layer Using SCAPS‐1D
Authors: Merabet Sarra , Bendenia Chahrazed , Bendenia Souhila , Merad‐Dib Hanaa , Moulebhar Samia , Khantar Sid Ahmed
Published: February 2025

In pursuit of more sustainable solar cell technologies, this study focuses on the development of CZTS‐based solar cells by utilizing novel nontoxic buffer layers with better properties as substitutes for cadmium, which poses environmental and health risks. We explored two distinct cell architectures based on CZTS/TiNxOy and CZTS/CrNxOy, to assess their performance and potential. Additionally, to enhance cell efficiency, we incorporated V2O5 and Spiro‐OMeTAD as a double hole transport layer (HTL). Simulations were conducted via SCAPS 1D software. The effects of various layer parameters, including thickness, acceptor and donor densities, and the defect density of the absorber layer, are also discussed. After optimizing the device, the influence of operating temperature and the impact of series and shunt resistance were also considered. Employing double HTLs of Spiro‐OMeTAD and V₂O₅ achieves a notable efficiency of 25.24% for CZTS/TiNxOy and 25.22% for CZTS/CrNxOy.
Trajectories and Influences of Depression in Adolescents: A Latent Profile Transition Analysis Study
Authors: Dai Yuelian , Shen Lin , Zhang Shenghao , Wu Zhentong , Zhang Jiaqi , Li Qi , Xiao Jing
Published: February 2025

Depression has become increasingly prevalent among adolescents, posing significant challenges for mental health professionals. While most studies on depression adopt a cross‐sectional perspective or a variable‐centred approach, these methods often fail to illuminate the developmental trajectories of depression in individuals. We employed Latent Profile Transition Analysis (LPTA), a person‐centred approach, to analyse longitudinal data from a large adolescent sample (N = 978; Mage = 16.26, SD = 0.89; 52.2% females). This study aimed to identify distinct subgroups of depression and observe transitions between these groups over time, considering stress, anxiety, and rumination as covariates to predict these transitions and aid in the development of targeted interventions. We identified three distinct subgroups: ‘low/no depression’, ‘moderate depression’, and ‘high depression’. Individuals in the low/no depression and moderate depression groups displayed a predominant tendency toward stability rather than change. Conversely, individuals in the high depression group showed a high probability of transitioning to the moderate depression group. Stress, rumination, and anxiety were significant predictors of transitions into more severe depressive groups. Notably, the predictive power of rumination diminished over time. This study relied solely on self‐reported measures, which may introduce response bias. This study reveals dynamic trajectories of depression among adolescents using a person‐centred approach, emphasising the importance of closely monitoring those in the moderate depression subgroup. Stress, anxiety, and rumination emerged as crucial predictors of transitions in depression severity, underscoring the need for targeted early interventions.
Tattooing Among Combat Soldiers as a Coping Resource With Their Military Service Experiences
Authors: Cohen‐Louck Keren , Iluz Yakov
Published: February 2025

This study aims to examine how former combat soldiers use tattoos as a coping resource in response to their military service experiences. Qualitative analysis of semi‐structured interviews with eight combat soldiers identified two main themes: (a) the military events and distress as a background story of the tattoos; (b) the tattoos' meaning as a coping resource for military service experiences. The thematic analysis revealed two coping resources which the soldiers utilised through tattooing. The first is the emotional‐relief coping resource, which allows combat soldiers to express and process their emotions in response to events experienced during their military service, and helps them reduce feelings of stress. The second is the positive‐productive coping resource that enhances positive feelings, serves as an empowering, promoting and strengthening resource, and expresses a transformative process of change. The findings also revealed that both of the coping resources were adaptive coping resources. This study contributes to the limited research on tattooing among combat soldiers, expands the knowledge regarding tattoos as a coping resource with military service, and identifies two types of coping resources utilised by combat soldiers. On a practical level, our findings offer insights for interventions aimed at promoting awareness among combat soldiers about the effectiveness of tattooing.
High‐Performance G‐Dimer Acceptor‐Based Flexible Organic Solar Cells Optimized by Temperature‐Dependent Film Formation Process
Authors: Wang Yuhan , Zhang Jianqi , Tian Chenyang , Zhang Hao , Wang Tong , Wang Caixuan , Wu Mengying , Bi Huijuan , Zhang Dandan , Lu Guanghao , Liu Wei , Wei Zhixiang
Published: February 2025

Giant Dimer (G‐Dimer) acceptors have shown their promising ability in the fabrication of high‐performance organic solar cells; however, a lack of investigation on the morphology optimization of donor and acceptor (D‐A) blends essentially confines their potential application. Based on a typical Y6‐analogues‐based giant dimeric acceptor G‐DimerC8C10, this study investigated the impact of varying processing temperatures on the behavior of the blends with donor PM6. The result indicated that as the processing temperature increased, the aggregation capacity of the donor is enhanced. This enhancement can be attributed to the reduced nucleation sites and the accelerated diffusion rate of PM6, which consequently resulted in forming nanofiber with larger diameters. Concurrently, the vertical phase distribution of the active layer is observed, with progressively ascended donor and descended acceptor due to the disparate drying times of the donor and the acceptor. The synergistic regulated vertical phase distribution and nanofiber morphology resulted in an optimized dissociation rate of excitons and an enhanced hole transport rate. Especially, the 1 cm2 flexible device fabricated by slot‐die coating achieves a record power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 14.38% at the optimized processing temperature (90 °C), which paved the way for future upscaling applications.
Carbon Molecular Sieve Membranes Derived From Dual‐Cross–linked Polybenzimidazole for Enhanced H2/CO2 Separation
Authors: Guan Jianyu , Sun Yongchao , Gao Zeyuan , Bai Lu , Li Tianyou , Fan Fangxu , Li Hongjin , Sun Fake , Liu Yijun , He Gaohong , Ma Canghai
Published: February 2025

The need for efficient CO2 separation during hydrogen production from fossil fuels drives the development of advanced, energy‐efficient solutions. Membrane technology offers a promising approach for separating CO2 from H2, which, however, faces the challenge of low H2/CO2 selectivity. To address this challenge, a novel strategy to cross–link polybenzimidazole (PBI) using potassium persulfate (K2S2O8) is proposed, followed by pyrolysis to fabricate highly selective carbon molecular sieve (CMS) membranes. The cross–linked PBI‐derived CMS membranes exhibit significantly enhanced permeability and H2/CO2 selectivity compared to neat PBI‐CMS membranes. For instance, the CMS membrane prepared from PBI cross–linked for 24 h and pyrolyzed at 900 °C (denoted as KPBI24 CMS@900) demonstrates outstanding molecular sieving capability. This membrane achieves an H2 permeability of 55 Barrer with an H2/CO2 selectivity of 48 tested at 100 °C, significantly surpassing its non‐cross–linked counterparts and the 2008 Robeson upper bound. The design principles of this study provide a robust technical foundation for persulfate‐cross–linked PBI and offer an innovative approach for preparing high‐performance CMS membranes.
Versatile PLGA‐Based Drug Delivery Systems for Tumor Immunotherapy
Authors: Wang Yishu , Hu Xiaoming , Wang Jinghui , Zhang Yu , Guo Peilin , Lv Yanlin , Ma Guanghui , Wei Wei , Wang Shuang
Published: February 2025

Tumor immunotherapy, which utilizes the immune system to fight cancer, represents a revolutionary method for cancer treatment. Poly (lactic‐co‐glycolic acid) (PLGA) copolymer has emerged as a promising material for tumor immunotherapy due to its biocompatibility, biodegradability, and versatility in drug delivery. By tuning the size, shape, and surface properties of PLGA‐based systems, researchers have improved their ability to align with the requirements for diverse tumor immunotherapy modalities. In this review, the basic properties of the PLGA materials are first introduced and further the principal forms of the PLGA systems for controlled release are summarized and delivery applications are targeted. In addition, recent advances in the use of PLGA delivery systems are highlighted to enhance antitumor immune responses in terms of tumor vaccines, immunogenic cell death‐mediated immune responses, tumor microenvironment modulation, and combination immunotherapies. Finally, prospects for the future research and clinical translation of PLGA materials are proposed.
Magnetic Field‐Assisted Photocatalysis: Mechanisms, Devices, and Applications
Authors: Zhang Yufei , Tang Yuxin , Yang Xinyi , Feng Dezhen , Feng Bo , Guan Renquan , Che Guangbo
Published: February 2025

The magnetic field as a “non‐contact” external field can instantaneously affect the separation and migration of photogenerated carriers during the photocatalytic reaction. This facilitates the large‐scale industrial application of photocatalysis technology. Consequently, the potential for using external magnetic fields to enhance photocatalysis in environmental pollution control and clean energy production has received significant attention. Herein, the principle of the magnetic field acting on photocatalytic reaction is discussed, including spin polarization, the Lorentz force, negative magnetoresistance, and electromotive force. In particular, the typical reaction devices and magnetic field settings involved in current research on magnetic field‐assisted photocatalysis are exhibited. Meanwhile, the performance of magnetic field‐assisted photocatalysis in specific applications is presented. The efficiency and experimental parameters of catalysts are classified and organized by their specific application fields. It is highlighted to summarize and interpret the mechanisms underlying magnetic field‐assisted photocatalysis presented in previous studies, along with the latest validation techniques. Finally, the challenges and potential opportunities are discussed. This review offers valuable insights and guidance for the design and development of innovative magnetic field‐assisted photocatalytic systems, thereby accelerating the industrial application of photocatalytic technology.
Age effects in primary education: A double disadvantage for second‐generation immigrants
Authors: Abatemarco Antonio , Cavallo Mariagrazia , Marino Immacolata , Russo Giuseppe
Published: February 2025

The immigrant background is an acknowledged source of disadvantage. We study whether this background interacts with absolute and relative age effects generating additional barriers—that is, a double disadvantage—for second‐generation immigrant children in the Italian primary school. To identify these effects we exploit the variation given by the heterogeneity in children's birthdates and the fact that the test is given at two different points in time. We do find evidence of a double disadvantage that, relative to the average native, reduces scores in Italian by 3.2% and in Math by 3.4%. This suggests that controlling for age effects in class composition criteria can be used to promote integration because it delivers extra benefits to second‐generation immigrant children.
Thiolated and Carboxymethylated Jackfruit Seed Starch Nanocrystals as Polymeric Drug Carriers for Curcumin Delivery to Cancer Cells
Authors: Balogun‐Agbaje Olalekan Adeyinka , Odeniyi Michael Ayodele
Published: February 2025

Jackfruit seeds are rich in starch and can be used as an alternative source of the polymer. Starch nanocrystals can act as a carrier to improve curcumin's anti‐cancer effect. This study evaluated modified jackfruit starch nanocrystals as carriers for delivering curcumin to MCF‐7 breast cancer cell lines. Nanocrystals were prepared by acid hydrolysis and modified by carboxymethylation and thiolation. The starch forms were characterized by scanning electron microscopy, X‐ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, drug loading, mucoadhesion, and toxicity. Curcumin‐loaded starches were evaluated for in vitro drug release and cytotoxicity on MCF‐7 cancer cells. The prepared nanocrystals had an average particle size of 6.15 ± 0.80 nm, with altered morphology after modification. The starch's crystallinity (27.18%) increased with acid hydrolysis (37.54%) and thiolation (41.37%) but decreased with carboxymethylation (23.29%). The highest drug loading (70.23% ± 0.23%) was recorded for carboxymethylated nanocrystals, then thiolated nanocrystals (63.37% ± 0.40%), and the lowest (49.31% ± 0.13%) was for the native starch. Mucoadhesion was improved by thiolation, and the curcumin‐loaded thiolated nanocrystals produced an IC50 value (42.5 ± 0.12 µm/mL) lower than plain curcumin (86.80 ± 0.10 µm/mL). Modified jackfruit starch nanocrystals possess acceptable properties and are potential candidates for the effective delivery of curcumin to cancer cells.
A Literature Review of Software Testing Practices and Frameworks in the Video Gaming Industry
Authors: Roque Alejandro , Sotomayor Juan P. , Santiago Dionny , Clarke Peter J.
Published: February 2025

The video gaming industry has evolved into an industry that drives high revenue and tangentially faces some of the toughest problems in the software engineering domain. With more games being released with either remote multiplayer components or cloud streaming foundations, maintaining an engaging player experience that lives up to a high‐quality bar is a problem that many game studios must overcome. Traditionally, studios have relied on brute‐force manual testing of their software to find impacting bugs. However, as studios and publishers focus on shortening the delivery timeline of their products to consumers, we have seen a rise in the use of testing tools, automation and enhanced processes that focus on achieving a high level of quality. In this systematic literature review, we provide a review of the tools and processes and discuss how these tools enhance the quality experience or help decrease the cost of testing while allowing for faster releases. We conclude by observing some potential areas of opportunity, such as suggesting an approach to help validate the severity of bugs found through community validation and providing a mechanism to create a way to track bugs across heterogeneous devices.
The mechanical and microstructural investigations of concrete incorporating waste textile and cardboard fibers following thermal and freeze–thaw cycles
Authors: Haigh Robert , Sandanayake Malindu , Yaghoubi Ehsan , Joseph Paul , Vrcelj Zora
Published: February 2025

Recent research suggests that incorporating waste fiber materials into concrete can enhance sustainable waste management practices and reduce the need for extracting natural resources. Textile and cardboard waste, which are abundantly available worldwide, offer significant opportunities to be repurposed in building materials, simultaneously minimizing landfill waste. This study explores the durability of concrete composites containing textile and cardboard fibers, with a focus on using silica fume as a modification technique for the kraft fiber walls (SFKFs) found in cardboard waste. SFKFs replaced 5% of the cement by volume (SFKF5), while 2.5% polyester textile fibers (T2.5) were added as a reinforcement agent. Microstructural analysis showed variations in how fibers were integrated into the concrete matrix. The rougher surfaces of SFKFs improved fiber anchorage, while the smooth texture of textile fibers promoted uniform dispersion. Mechanical testing, including compressive, tensile, and durability tests, was conducted on all composite specimens by subjecting them to thermal and freeze–thaw cycles. Observations of weight loss and strength characteristics supported the mechanical results. The SFKF5 composite showed a 23.9% increase in compressive strength after 100 thermal cycles. Initially, the combination of SFKF5 and T2.5 (KFT) demonstrated the highest tensile strength at 28 days. However, SFKF5 outperformed T2.5 in tensile strength after 100 thermal cycles. The T2.5 specimen exhibited the highest compressive strength of 45 MPa and achieved the highest tensile strength of 4.3 MPa following 100 freeze–thaw cycles. These findings confirm the durability of waste fiber reinforced concrete under various environmental conditions, highlighting its potential as a sustainable construction material.
Troubling the Definition of Black Resilience in STEM‐CS Education
Authors: Mensah Felicia Moore , Pierre Takeshia
Published: February 2025

Resiliency has been unearthed as a phenomenon to explore strategies that influence successful STEM‐CS matriculation and/or persistence among minoritized populations—particularly Black undergraduate students. We argue that understanding and solidifying a definition for resilience in STEM‐CS can aid in identifying key characteristics that reveal systemic structures and improve academic achievement. In this commentary, we use critical race theory (CRT) to unpack how resiliency can be adjusted and revamped to focus more on systemic issues, rather than on individual or small groups of students to showcase “grit” and immense inner strength in STEM‐CS environments. Three noteworthy assertions are generated to help us trouble resilience relative to Black STEM‐CS students and teachers in higher education.
Organizational Maturity Applied to Food Industries: A Case Study
Authors: Santos Ângela Regina Souza , Melo Renata Maciel de , Clemente Thárcylla Rebecca Negreiros , Machado Santos Simone
Published: February 2025

This study applied an organizational maturity assessment model to the food industry, based on integrated technical standards, encompassing environmental management (ISO 14001), quality management (ISO 9001), and food safety (ISO 22000). The central focus was to investigate the involvement of companies in implementing and advancing the integrated management system (IMS) within the food industry. The model has five maturity levels and provides a framework to help understand and link maturity levels with companies’ development stages. The proposed model offers targeted guidelines for selecting appropriate strategies to achieve an evolutionary, productive, practical, and consistent level of organizational maturity within the IMS. This approach affords a preventive perspective and the integration of sustainable practices, emphasizing continuous improvement. The study provides diagnostic tools to identify different management phases, facilitating the selection of “drivers” that effectively support the development of a sustainable and efficient IMS. Validation of the model was successful when it showed a maturity level of 4.5 (out of 5.0) for the company with the highest number of certifications. This outcome highlights the need to establish a culture oriented toward continuous improvement and employee engagement.
Comparison and prediction of shallow groundwater nitrate in Shaying River basin based on urban distribution using multiple machine learning approaches
Authors: Huang Zipeng , He Baonan , Chu Yanjia , Song Yuanbo , Shen Zheng
Published: February 2025

Groundwater, a pivotal water resource in numerous regions worldwide, confronts formidable challenges posed by severe nitrate pollution. Traditional research methodologies aimed at addressing groundwater nitrate contamination frequently struggle to accurately depict the intricate conditions of the groundwater environment, particularly when dealing with high variability and nonlinear data. However, the advent of machine learning (ML) has heralded an innovative approach to simulating groundwater dynamics. In this study, six ML algorithms were deployed to model the concentrations of shallow groundwater nitrates in the Shaying River Basin. The efficacy of each model was assessed through comprehensive metrics including the coefficient of determination (R2), mean absolute error (MAE), and root mean square error (RMSE), gauging the alignment between observed and predicted groundwater nitrate levels. Subsequently, to discern the principal environmental factors influencing NO3‐N concentrations, the most proficient model was selected. Among the array of models, the XGB algorithm, renowned for its capacity to handle extreme values, demonstrated superior performance (R2 = 0.773, MAE = 7.625, RMSE = 11.92). Through an in‐depth analysis of groundwater NO3‐N across major urban centers, Fuyang city was identified as the most heavily contaminated locale, attributing the phenomenon to potential sources such as domestic sewage and agricultural activities (feature importance of Cl− = 78.64%). Conversely, Zhengzhou city emerged as the least polluted city, with notable influences from K+ and NO2− (feature importance = 52.06% and 18.41%), indicative of a prevailing reducing environment compared to other cities. In summation, this study explores a methodology for amalgamating diverse environmental variables in the investigation of groundwater contamination. Such insights hold profound implications for the effective management and mitigation of nitrate contamination in the Shaying River Basin, offering a demonstration for similar endeavors in analogous regions.

Practitioner Points

Six machine learning models were utilized to simulate the nitrate contamination.

XGB model for groundwater nitrate pollution prediction outperformed other models.

Relative importance of environmental variables was identified using the XGB model.

Impact of main environmental variables on groundwater nitrate was discussed.
Follow‐up of patients with mild COVID‐19 using subjective, acoustic, and aerodynamic measurements
Authors: Xiao Zhi‐Xue , Ren Qing‐Yi , Liang Wei‐Qing , Li Na‐Na , Huang Nan , Zhu Zhi‐Xian , Ge Ping‐Jiang , Zhang Si‐Yi , Kang Jing
Published: February 2025

Objectives

To gain a comprehensive understanding of the vocal repercussions experienced by mild COVID‐19 infection, as well as the duration and underlying factors contributing to these effects.

Methods

Ten participants with mild COVID‐19 infection were included as the experimental group to evaluate the voice metrics changes at 15 days (D15), 30 days (D30), and 60 days (D60) after mild COVID‐19 infection, and 10 healthy people were taken as the normal control group. Self‐assessment and objective measures were taken at each time point, including questionnaires for voice handicap index (VHI) and reflux symptom index (RSI), as well as acoustic and aerodynamic indicators such as fundamental frequency (F0), Jitter, Shimmer, noise‐to‐harmonics ratio, sound pressure level (SPL), phonation threshold pressure (PTP), phonation threshold flow, aerodynamic resistance(AR), aerodynamic efficiency, mean expiration airflow, maximum phonation time, and maximum loudest phonation time.

Results

Notable elevations in RSI and VHI were observed during the D15 assessment, but by D60, these levels had returned to normal. At D60, Shimmer, PTP, and PTF significantly increased compared to the control group, while HNR and AR significantly decreased (p < 0.05). F0, SPL, and PTP significantly increased compared to 15 days (p < 0.05), while other acoustic and aerodynamic indicators showed no significant changes in intra‐group and inter‐group comparisons.

Conclusions

Our study demonstrated that COVID‐19 infection has a detrimental effect on voice production. Although subjective discomfort may gradually subside within 2 months after onset, alterations in phonation mode can be delayed. It is essential for healthcare professionals to remain vigilant in preventing any organic changes that may arise due to COVID‐19‐related voice disorders, such as muscle tension dysphonia.
Simultaneous Determination of Elemental Iridium and Platinum Loadings on Catalyst Coated Membranes Using a Niton XL3t X‐Ray Fluorescence Analyser
Authors: Warner Terence E. , Rossetti Nicolai Becker , Lund Peter Brilner
Published: February 2025

Iridium and platinum have adjacent atomic numbers that account for the proximity of their x‐ray transition energies and thus the overlapping peaks in their x‐ray fluorescence spectra. This presents a challenge for the quantitative elemental analysis of IrO2⋅2H2O‐Pt binary catalyst coatings, especially where the ‘Fundamental Parameter’ method is unavailable, as in the Niton XL3t energy dispersive x‐ray fluorescence analyser. Therefore, we studied the spectral resolution of the Lα, Lη and Lβ peaks for Ir and Pt as recorded on a Niton XL3t to identify the optimal regions of interest. These ROIs were used to measure a set of discrete Ir and Pt standard samples—in which the elemental loadings were derived from the mass and formulation of the catalyst coatings—for constructing correlation graphs to enable the conversion of x‐ray intensity data (cps μA−1) to elemental loading (mg cm−2). These correlation data were fitted to a quadratic regression. The overall measurement uncertainty for the elemental loadings was determined by combining the residual standard error in the quadratic regression with the uncertainty for the elemental loadings used in the construction of the correlation graph, yielding ±0.07 mg cm−2 for Ir (ROI: 9.00–9.18 keV) and ± 0.04 mg cm−2 for Pt (ROI: 9.36–9.65 keV). The quadratic functions and their corresponding ROIs were programmed into the analyser to measure a set of IrO2⋅2H2OPt binary standard samples. This revealed a strong agreement between the elemental loadings as displayed on the analyser and those derived from the mass and formulation of these standard samples.
An efficient finite element method for computing the response of a strain‐limiting elastic solid containing a V‐notch and inclusions
Authors: Shylaja G. , Kesavulu Naidu V. , Venkatesh B. , Mallikarjunaiah S. M.
Published: February 2025

The precise triangulation of the domain assumes a critical role in calculating numerical approximations of differential operators utilizing a collocation method. A well‐executed triangulation contributes significantly to the reduction of discretization errors. Conventional collocation techniques typically represent the smooth curved domain by triangulating a mesh, wherein boundary points are approximated using polygons. However, this methodology frequently introduces geometrical errors that adversely impact the accuracy of the numerical approximation. To mitigate such geometrical inaccuracies, isoparametric, subparametric, and iso‐geometric methods have been proposed, facilitating the approximation of curved surfaces or line segments. This paper proposes an efficient finite element method tailored to approximate the elliptic boundary value problem (BVP) solution that governs the response of an elastic solid containing a V‐notch and inclusions. The algebraically nonlinear constitutive equation and the balance of linear momentum are reduced to a second‐order quasi‐linear elliptic partial differential equation. Our approach encompasses the representation of complex curved boundaries through a smooth, distinctive point transformation. The principal objective is to utilize higher‐order shape functions to accurately compute the entries within the finite element matrices and vectors and obtain a precise approximate solution to the BVP. A Picard‐type linearization addresses the nonlinearities inherent in the governing differential equation. Numerical results derived from the test cases demonstrate a significant enhancement in accuracy.
Correction to: Active Disturbance Rejection Control
Authors: Herbst Gernot , Madonski Rafal
Published: February 2025

Owing to an unfortunate oversight on the part of the publisher, the following errors were unintentionally introduced into the book titled “Active Disturbance Rejection Control” after the author had signed off on the book proof.
The two-loop MHV momentum amplituhedron from fibrations of fibrations
Authors: Ferro Livia , Glew Ross , Łukowski Tomasz , Stalknecht Jonah
Published: February 2025

Abstract

Recently, a new approach to computing the canonical forms of the momentum amplituhedron in dual-momentum space was proposed by the authors. These are relevant for the integrands of scattering amplitudes in planar

$$ \mathcal{N} $$

N

= 4 super-Yang-Mills. At one-loop the idea was to view the set of all loop momenta, which we refer to as the one-loop fiber geometry, as a fibration over the tree-level kinematic data. This led to the notion of tree-level chambers, subsets of the tree-level kinematic space for which the combinatorial structure of the one-loop fiber remains unchanged, that allowed for a novel representation of the one-loop integrand. The goal of this paper is to extend these ideas to two loops for MHV integrands. Our approach will be to view the geometry accessed by the second loop momentum, similarly referred to as the two-loop fiber geometry, as a fibration over both the one-loop kinematic data and the position of the first loop momentum in the one-loop fiber. This will lead to the notion of one-loop chambers, subsets of the one-loop fibers for which the combinatorial structure of the two-loop fiber remains unchanged. We will characterise the full set of one-loop chambers and their corresponding two-loop fibers and present formulae for their canonical forms. Ultimately, this will result in a new formula for the two-loop MHV integrand written as a fibration of fibration.
Minimizers for an Aggregation Model with Attractive–Repulsive Interaction
Authors: Frank Rupert L. , Matzke Ryan W.
Published: February 2025

We solve explicitly a certain minimization problem for probability measures involving an interaction energy that is repulsive at short distances and attractive at large distances. We complement earlier works by showing that in an optimal part of the remaining parameter regime all minimizers are uniform distributions on a surface of a sphere, thus showing concentration on a lower dimensional set. Our method of proof uses convexity estimates on hypergeometric functions.