bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A new strategy for preparing web‐reinforced foam sandwich composites with excellent mechanical properties
Authors: Liu Yang , Min Wei , Cheng Lele , Yu Muhuo , Qi Liangliang , Sun Zeyu
Published: January 2025

Web‐reinforced foam sandwich composite structures have garnered significant attention for their ability to improve Z‐direction strength (strength along thickness) and interfacial mechanical properties. However, the complexity of their manufacturing process has hindered large‐scale applications. The thermal expansion molding process (TEMP) addresses these engineering challenges by generating expansion pressure from the inside out, enabling the formation of intricate web‐reinforced sandwich composite structures. In this study, a thermal expansion epoxy foam expanded 2–10 times under 110–150°C conditions. By coordinating the foam and Carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) prepreg system, we successfully established the match among expansion pressure, time, temperature, and viscosity for the composites prepared using TEMP. Based on the mechanical properties and microstructure of the composite materials, we selected an expandable foam that expanded four times at 135°C, resulting in various specifications of corrugated plate‐reinforced foam sandwich composite structures. When comparing the newly designed structures to pure foam sandwich structures, we observed a significant improvement in mechanical performance: the compression strength increased from 4.81 to 10.59 MPa, while the specific energy absorption rose from 2285.63 to 3864.63 J/kg with a corrugated plate width of 20 mm. This study establishes a foundation for integrating the TEMP to create complex reinforced sandwich composite structures, paving the way for future applications in engineering.

Highlights

A coordinated regulation method of TEMP technology was proposed.

The match of parameters was obtained to control TEMP technology.

The TEMP technology has more advantages in forming sandwich composites.

The compression properties of corrugated plate were improved.
Advancing Sustainability Assessment of Renewable Energy: A Study on Indicator‐to‐Framework Methods and Associated Rule Mining
Authors: Faraji Abdolmaleki Shoeib , Bello Bugallo Pastora M.
Published: January 2025

Divergent sustainable development perspectives, mathematical model limitations, and varying scenarios contribute to uncertainty in assessing renewable energy sustainability. To tackle these challenges, this study conducts a comprehensive literature review, employs an analogy, and utilizes knowledge discovery techniques with an indicator‐to‐framework approach. Qualitative classification and rule mining elucidate the interrelationships among dimensions, indicators, and scopes, enhancing assessment coherence. The study identifies 227 indicators across five dimensions and nine scopes, highlighting key rules through Apriori algorithm. Strong rules, meeting a support threshold of 0.22, confidence of 0.7, and Lift of 2.512, underscore the significance of environmental, economic, social, and technological dimensions. Environmental indicators like CO2 emissions, NOX emissions, and SO2 emissions feature prominently. The harmonization of dimensions, indicators, and scopes streamlines research and mitigates ambiguities. Appendices augment rules with frequent indicators, enriching insights. This data‐driven methodology provides a practical solution to the complexities of selecting appropriate indicators for such assessments.
Palmitate potentiates the SMAD3-PAI-1 pathway by reducing nuclear GDF15 levels
Authors: Montori-Grau Marta , Barroso Emma , Jurado-Aguilar Javier , Peyman Mona , Wahli Walter , Palomer Xavier , Vázquez-Carrera Manuel
Published: January 2025

Nuclear growth differentiation factor 15 (GDF15) reduces the binding of the mothers’ against decapentaplegic homolog (SMAD) complex to its DNA-binding elements. However, the stimuli that control this process are unknown. Here, we examined whether saturated fatty acids (FA), particularly palmitate, regulate nuclear GDF15 levels and the activation of the SMAD3 pathway in human skeletal myotubes and mouse skeletal muscle, where most insulin-stimulated glucose use occurs in the whole organism. Human LHCN-M2 myotubes and skeletal muscle from wild-type and Gdf15

−/−
mice fed a standard (STD) or a high-fat (HFD) diet were subjected to a series of studies to investigate the involvement of lipids in nuclear GDF15 levels and the activation of the SMAD3 pathway. The saturated FA palmitate, but not the monounsaturated FA oleate, increased the expression of GDF15 in human myotubes and, unexpectedly, decreased its nuclear levels. This reduction was prevented by the nuclear export inhibitor leptomycin B. The decrease in nuclear GDF15 levels caused by palmitate was accompanied by increases in SMAD3 protein levels and in the expression of its target gene SERPINE1, which encodes plasminogen activator inhibitor 1 (PAI-1). HFD-fed Gdf15
−/− mice displayed aggravated glucose intolerance compared to HFD-fed WT mice, with increased levels of SMAD3 and PAI-1 in the skeletal muscle. The increased PAI-1 levels in the skeletal muscle of HFD-fed Gdf15
−/− mice were accompanied by a reduction in one of its targets, hepatocyte growth factor (HGF)α, a cytokine involved in glucose metabolism. Interestingly, PAI-1 acts as a ligand of signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) and the phosphorylation of this transcription factor was exacerbated in HFD-fed Gdf15
−/− mice compared to HFD-fed WT mice. At the same time, the protein levels of insulin receptor substrate 1 (IRS-1) were reduced. These findings uncover a potential novel mechanism through which palmitate induces the SMAD3-PAI-1 pathway to promote insulin resistance in skeletal muscle by reducing nuclear GDF15 levels.
A computer vision system for recognition and defect detection for reusable containers
Authors: Wahyudi Vincent , Ziegler Cedric C. , Frieß Matthias , Schramm Stefan , Lang Constantin , Eberhardt Lars , Freund Fabian , Dobhan Alexander , Storath Martin
Published: January 2025

Small load carriers (SLCs) are standardized reusable containers used to transport and protect customer goods in many manufacturers. Throughout the life cycle of the SLCs, they will be collected, manually checked for defects (wear, cracks, and residue on the surface), and cleaned by specialized logistic companies. Human operators in small to medium-sized companies manually evaluate the defects due to the variety and degree of possible defects and varying customer needs. This manual evaluation is not scalable and prone to errors. This work aims to fill this gap by proposing a computer vision system that can recognize the SLC type for inventory management and perform defect detection automatically. First, we develop a camera portal, consisting of standard components, that capture the relevant surfaces of the SLC. A labeled dataset of 17,530 images of 34 different SLCs with their defect status was recorded using this camera portal. We trained a classification model (ConvNeXt) using our dataset to predict the different types of SLCs achieving 100% class prediction accuracy. For defect detection, we explore eight state-of-the-art (SOTA) anomaly detection models that achieved high rankings in the MVTec industrial anomaly detection benchmark. These models are trained using default hyperparameters and the two highest-scoring models were chosen and fine-tuned. The best-fine-tuned models based on “Area under the Receiver Operating Characteristic Curve (AUROC)” are PatchCore (0.811) and DRAEM (0.748). These results indicate that there is still potential for improvement in the automation of defect detection of SLCs.
Symmetry-induced ambiguity in orientation estimation from RGB images
Authors: Bertens Tijn , Caasenbrood Brandon , Saccon Alessandro , Jalba Andrei
Published: January 2025

The estimation of object orientation from RGB images is a core component in many modern computer vision pipelines. Traditional techniques mostly predict a single orientation per image, learning a one-to-one mapping between images and rotations. However, when objects exhibit rotational symmetries, they can appear identical from multiple viewpoints. This induces ambiguity in the estimation problem, making images map to rotations in a one-to-many fashion. In this paper, we explore several ways of addressing this problem. In doing so, we specifically consider algorithms that can map an image to a range of multiple rotation estimates, accounting for symmetry-induced ambiguity. Our contributions are threefold. Firstly, we create a data set with annotated symmetry information that covers symmetries induced through self-occlusion. Secondly, we compare and evaluate various learning strategies for multiple-hypothesis prediction models applied to orientation estimation. Finally, we propose to model orientation estimation as a binary classification problem. To this end, based on existing work from the field of shape reconstruction, we design a neural network that can be sampled to reconstruct the full range of ambiguous rotations for a given image. Quantitative evaluation on our annotated data set demonstrates its performance and motivates our design choices.
Effectiveness and cytokine profile of combined anti-vascular endothelial growth factor and corticosteroid therapy for chronic retinal vein occlusion
Authors: Arai Yusuke , Takahashi Hidenori , Inoda Satoru , Sakamoto Shinichi , Kawashima Hidetoshi , Yanagi Yasuo
Published: January 2025

Purpose

To investigate whether sub-Tenon injection of triamcinolone acetonide (STTA) combined with anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) prolongs the recurrence intervals of macular edema (ME) for chronic retinal vein occlusion (RVO) and to investigate the differences in intraocular inflammatory cytokines between good responders (GRs) and non-responders (NRs).

Methods

This retrospective, observational study involved 42 eyes of 42 patients with ME due to chronic RVO who had received only anti-VEGF for ≥ 1 year and were transitioned to combination therapy. GRs were defined as patients whose recurrence intervals were prolonged by ≥ 2 weeks compared with patients receiving anti-VEGF alone. Moreover, immediately before starting the combined therapy, aqueous humor was collected and the following inflammatory cytokines were compared between GRs and NRs: CCL11, MCP-3, IP-10, CCL13, G-CSF, GM-CSF, IL-1α, IL-15, IL-4, M-CSF, MMP-9, TNF-α, MCP-1, CXCL-1, CXCL12, IL-8, galectin-1, IFN-γ, IL-12, IL-2, IL-6, MMP-1, PDGF-AA, and VEGF-A. These results were analyzed by nominal logistic regression after stepwise variable selection.

Results

There were 26 eyes (62%) in the GR group. Nominal logistic analyses showed that a higher concentration of IL-1α (P = 0.016) and lower concentrations of IL-5 (P = 0.015), IL-6 (P = 0.022), and galectin-1 (P = 0.015) were significantly associated with the extension of the time from injection to recurrence of ME.

Conclusion

Combined anti-VEGF and STTA therapy for chronic RVO was effective in 62% of patients, suggesting the effectiveness of STTA. Higher IL-1α and lower IL-5, IL-6, and galectin-1 were the factors associated with combined treatment effectiveness.
Energies Within Rock Mass and the Associated Dynamic Rock Failures
Authors: Watson John , Canbulat Ismet , Zhang Chengguo , Wei Chunchen
Published: January 2025

Catastrophic dynamic rock failure is one of the most challenging problems existing in the fields of civil tunneling and mining. It occurs in complex environments of geology, stress and excavation, and there is no one set of circumstances that is responsible for the phenomenon. However, a major contributing factor is believed to be energy storage and release. This paper studies and quantifies the energy release concept to advance the understanding and control of dynamic rock failures. The impacts of energy sources within rock masses on dynamic rock failures are assessed. The energy sources include strain and potential energy, the pressure energy of free and adsorbed gas and radiated seismic energy related to rock fracture or faulting. A new time-based coupled model is developed to estimate the ejection velocity when dynamic rock failures occur. Two burst scenarios are demonstrated using the proposed coupled model, i.e., a burst in the development heading of an unsupported face, and a ribside burst in a supported rib. The coupled model results show the superiority of bolts with a capacity for greater plastic elongation. Conveniently from the design perspective, maximum mesh tension is governed entirely by bolt capacity and mesh rupture strain. In addition, a rockburst hazard classification is proposed by examining a broad range of studies conducted in various disciplines to classify the relationship between injury severity and impact velocities. The hazard profile of dynamic rock failures caused by various mine layouts, structural domains, gas environments and geological sequences can then be estimated on the basis of the quantitative analysis.
Associations between bone material strength index and FRAX scores
Authors: Rufus-Membere Pamela , Anderson Kara B. , Holloway-Kew Kara L. , Kotowicz Mark A. , Diez-Perez Adolfo , Pasco Julie A.
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Impact microindentation (IMI) measures bone material strength index (BMSi) in vivo. However, its ability to predict fractures is still uncertain. This study aimed to determine the association between BMSi and 10 year fracture probability, as calculated by the FRAX algorithm.

Materials and methods

BMSi was measured using the OsteoProbe in 388 men (ages 40–90 yr) from the Geelong Osteoporosis Study. The probabilities for a major osteoporotic fracture (MOF) and hip fracture (HF) were calculated using the Australian FRAX tool. Hip (HF) and major osteoporotic (MOF) fracture probabilities were computed with and without the inclusion of femoral neck bone mineral density (BMD). For each participant, four 10 year probability scores were therefore generated: (i) HF-FRAXnoBMD; (ii) HF-FRAXBMD; (iii) MOF-FRAXnoBMD; (iv) MOF-FRAXBMD.

Results

BMSi was negatively correlated with age (r = − 0.114, p = 0.025), no associations were detected between BMSi and femoral neck BMD (r = + 0.035, p = 0.507). BMSi was negatively correlated with HF-FRAXnoBMD (r = − 0.135, p = 0.008) and MOF-FRAXnoBMD (r = − 0.153, p = 0.003).

These trends held true for HF-FRAXBMD (r = − 0.087, p = 0.094) and MOF-FRAXBMD (r = − 0.111, p = 0.034), but only the latter reached significance.

Conclusion

BMSi captures the cumulative effect of clinical risk factors in the FRAX algorithm, suggesting that it could provide additional information that may be useful in predicting risk of fractures. Further studies are warranted to establish its efficacy in predicting fracture risk.
Disentangling the neural underpinnings of response inhibition in disruptive behavior and co-occurring ADHD
Authors: Saraçaydın Gülhan , van Rooij Daan , Kleine-Deters Renee , Messchendorp Marieke , Naaijen Jilly , Penzol María José , Rosa Mireia , Aggensteiner Pascal-M. , Baumeister Sarah , Holz Nathalie , Banaschewski Tobias , Saam Melanie , Schulze Ulrike M. E. , Sethi Arjun , Craig Michael , Castro-Fornieles Josefina , Arango Celso , Walitza Susanne , Werhahn Julia , Brandeis Daniel , Franke Barbara , Ruisch I. Hyun , Buitelaar Jan K. , Dietrich Andrea , Hoekstra Pieter J.
Published: January 2025

While impaired response inhibition has been reported in attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), findings in disruptive behavior disorders (DBDs) have been inconsistent, probably due to unaccounted effects of co-occurring ADHD in DBD. This study investigated the associations of behavioral and neural correlates of response inhibition with DBD and ADHD symptom severity, covarying for each other in a dimensional approach. Functional magnetic resonance imaging data were available for 35 children and adolescents with DBDs (8–18 years old, 19 males), and 31 age-matched unaffected controls (18 males) while performing a performance-adjusted stop-signal task. No significant association was found between behavioral performance and symptom severities. However, contrasting successful inhibition with failed inhibition revealed that DBD and ADHD symptom severity was associated with greater activation in the right inferior frontal regions and reduced activation in the bilateral striatal regions, respectively. During successful inhibition versus go-trials, ADHD symptom severity was associated with the left lateral occipital cortex activation. The contrast of failed inhibition versus go-trials revealed reduced activation in the right frontal and left parietal regions associated with DBD symptom severity while ADHD symptom severity was associated with bilateral precunei, dorsolateral prefrontal and left posterior parietal regions. Except for the right inferior frontal regions during successful versus failed inhibition, all clusters were also found to be inversely associated with the other dimension of interest (i.e., DBD or ADHD symptoms). Opposite direction of the associations between DBD and ADHD symptom severity, and fronto-parietal and fronto-striatal activation suggest unique contributions of DBD and ADHD to the neural correlates of response inhibition.
The effect of different timings of protein supplementation on variable outcomes in hemodialysis patients: a randomized clinical trial
Authors: Elsayed Mohamed Mamdouh , Elkazaz Amr Mohamed
Published: January 2025

Background

Oral nutritional supplements (ONS) are commonly prescribed to provide protein and energy to hemodialysis (HD) patients. There is a debate about the appropriate timing to administer ONS. We aimed to study the effect of different timings of ONS on variable outcomes in HD patients.

Methods

This research is a prospective, randomized, multicentric clinical trial (RCT) that included 120 patients on regular HD. Patients were allocated to receive ONS (25 gm protein powder/HD session) for 8 weeks either predialytic (1 h before the start of the session), intradialytic (2 h after the start of the session), or interdialytic (on non-dialysis days). Laboratory parameters, blood pressure (BP), dialysis adequacy, and nutritional parameters were assessed during the study.

Results

At study end, BP at the end of HD dropped significantly in the intradialytic group compared to the other groups (p < 0.001). Serum albumin improved significantly in the predialytic (p < 0.001) and intradialytic (p = 0.039) groups. The mean subjective global assessment score increased significantly in the interdialytic group (p = 0.040). The Kt/V and urea reduction ratio decreased significantly only in the intradialytic group (p value < 0.001 and 0.001). Serum sodium, potassium, phosphorus, cholesterol, triglycerides, and adverse events did not significantly differ between the different groups.

Conclusions

Predialytic ONS supplementation is a favorable option due to improved serum albumin with minimal effects on hemodynamics and dialysis adequacy compared to intradialytic and interdialytic supplementation.

Clinical Trials registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05953636.

First registration date: 1/07/2023.
Epicardial adipose tissue, cardiac damage, and mortality in patients undergoing TAVR for aortic stenosis
Authors: Piña Pamela , Lorenzatti Daniel , Filtz Annalisa , Scotti Andrea , Gil Elena Virosta , Torres Juan Duarte , Perea Cristina Morante , Shaw Leslee J. , Lavie Carl J. , Berman Daniel S. , Iacobellis Gianluca , Slomka Piotr J. , Pibarot Philippe , Dweck Marc R. , Dey Damini , Garcia Mario J. , Latib Azeem , Slipczuk Leandro
Published: January 2025

Computed tomography (CT)-derived Epicardial Adipose Tissue (EAT) is linked to cardiovascular disease outcomes. However, its role in patients undergoing Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR) and the interplay with aortic stenosis (AS) cardiac damage (CD) remains unexplored. We aim to investigate the relationship between EAT characteristics, AS CD, and all-cause mortality. We retrospectively included consecutive patients who underwent CT-TAVR followed by TAVR. EAT volume and density were estimated using a deep-learning platform and CD was assessed using echocardiography. Patients were classified according to low/high EAT volume and density. All-cause mortality at 4 years was compared using Kaplan-Meier and Cox regression analyses. A total of 666 patients (median age 81 [74–86] years; 54% female) were included. After a median follow-up of 1.28 (IQR 0.53–2.57) years, 11.7% (n = 77) of patients died. The EAT volume (p = 0.017) decreased, and density increased (p < 0.001) with worsening AS CD. Patients with low EAT volume (< 49cm3) and high density (≥-86 HU) had higher all-cause mortality (log-rank p = 0.02 and p = 0.01, respectively), even when adjusted for age, sex, and clinical characteristics (HR 1.71, p = 0.02 and HR 1.73, p = 0.03, respectively). When CD was added to the model, low EAT volume (HR 1.67 p = 0.03) and CD stages 3 and 4 (HR 3.14, p = 0.03) remained associated with all-cause mortality. In patients with AS undergoing TAVR, CT-derived low EAT volume, and high density were independently associated with increased 4-year mortality and worse CD stage. Only EAT volume remained associated when adjusted for CD.

Graphical Abstract
Progress report on multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1
Authors: Halperin Reut , Tirosh Amit
Published: January 2025

Multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1 (MEN1) syndrome is an autosomal dominant disorder caused by a germline pathogenic variant in the MEN1 tumor suppressor gene. Patients with MEN1 have a high risk for primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT) with a penetrance of nearly 100%, pituitary adenomas (PitAd) in 40% of patients, and neuroendocrine neoplasms (NEN) of the pancreas (40% of patients), duodenum, lung, and thymus. Increased MEN1-related mortality is mainly related to duodenal-pancreatic and thymic NEN. Management of PHPT differs from that of patients with sporadic disease, as the surgical approach in MEN1-related PHPT includes near-total or total parathyroidectomy because of multigland hyperplasia in most patients and the consequent high risk of recurrence. NEN management also differs from patients with sporadic disease due to multiple synchronous and metasynchronous neoplasms. In addition, the lifelong risk of developing NEN requires special considerations to avoid excessive surgeries and to minimize damage to the patient’s function and well-being. This progress report will outline current insights into surveillance and management of the major clinical manifestation of MEN1 syndrome in children and adults with MEN1 diagnosis. In addition, we will discuss MEN1-like clinical presentation with negative MEN1-genetic workup and future clinical and research directions.
Development of molecular markers linked to quantitative trait loci and genes controlling endosperm-based hybridization barriers
Authors: Pinar Hasan , Mutlu Nedim , Aydin Hamide , Dönderalp Veysel , Şimşek Cansu , Doğan Selcen
Published: January 2025

According to the theory of biological species, two species are considered different if there exist barriers to reproduction that prevent genes from flowing between them. Despite the undervaluation of hybrid seed lethality in the field of evolutionary biology, it represents a significant and promising area of research within the discipline of plant breeding. It is of the utmost importance to gain an understanding of and to overcome hybrid seed failure in order to facilitate the incorporation of desired traits into cultivated species. In this study, hybrid seed lethality between Capsicum annuum L. (21A) and Capsicum frutescens L. (PI 281420) cross was investigated. A genetic map was constructed using an F2 population derived from a cross between C. annuum L. (21A) and C. frutescens L. (PI 281420). The quantitative trait loci (QTLs) for endosperm-based hybridization barriers were mapped using the F2 population. A genetic map with a total length of 929.6 centimorgans (cM) and comprising 12 linkage groups was constructed using 61 markers, including 31 sequence-related amplified polymorphism markers, 19 simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers, and 11 random amplified polymorphic DNA markers. The 2 linked QTLs related with endosperm-based hybridization barriers character were mapped on linkage groups 11 and XX. This research contributes to our understanding of the genetic processes that underpin hybrid seed lethality, thereby providing insights for the enhancement of cultivated plant species through breeding.
Biocultural Taphonomies and Analysis of an Emerging Terminal Classic (750–900 CE) Maya Deathway
Authors: Kelmelis Saige , Walden John P. , Green Mink Kirsten , Hoggarth Julie A. , Ebert Claire E. , Freiwald Carolyn , Watkins Tia B. , Izzo Victoria S. R. , Biggie Michael , Thompson Amy E. , Guerra Rafael A. , Warinner Christina , Awe Jaime J.
Published: January 2025

In bioarchaeology, funerary taphonomy and preservation become part of the biocultural narrative of the dead. We evaluate the role of these factors in reconstructing the identities of those buried in an emerging deathway, the ventrally placed legs flexed (VPLF) burial position, during the Terminal Classic (750–900/1000 CE) period at the Maya polity of Lower Dover in western Belize. The term “VPLF” describes a divergent burial practice which may have resulted from intentional binding prior to burial. In our analysis of VPLF burials (n = 12), we use a two-step process to reconstruct the social identities and potential meaning of the burial pattern: (1) interpretation of the archaeological context based on excavation observations and biogeochemistry and (2) osteological analysis of curated individuals to reconstruct their biological profiles and post-mortem/post-excavation histories. Osteological analyses included age and sex estimation, paleopathological assessment of frailty and trauma, and skeletal modifications from cultural and taphonomic forces. Radiocarbon dating and ceramic analyses were used to date the burials. Stable and radiogenic isotopic analyses were applied to reconstruct diet and mobility for a subset of the VPLF burials. Our results show that individuals were buried in the VPLF position irrespective of age, sex, or social status, consistent with patterns at other Terminal Classic and Postclassic Maya sites, although VPLF interment may have been practiced earlier at Lower Dover. We hypothesize that the appearance of VPLF burials in the Terminal Classic period signified an ideological shift in light of emerging social and environmental pressures in the region.
Signaling and perceiving on equity crowdfunding decisions — a machine learning approach
Authors: Yang Jinjuan , Xin Jiayuan , Zeng Yan , Liu Pei Jose
Published: January 2025

This study explores how signaling and perceiving jointly influence crowd investors’ decision-making. We utilize five machine learning models to assess the predictive power of various information types on crowdfunding success. Our findings indicate that investors prioritize well-structured quantitative data over complex qualitative content. Processing quantitative information is also found to be less cognitively taxing than extracting useful information from qualitative text and images. Entrepreneurs’ signaling and investors’ processing jointly reduce information asymmetry in crowdfunding, highlighting the critical yet often-overlooked role of investors’ information processing. Additionally, we test the policy effect of the ‘2016 Interim Measures on Online Lending’ on crowdfunding success by comparing the predictive accuracy of information during the thriving and constraining periods of crowdfunding development in China. Our results have significant implications for policymakers that crowdfunding fosters economic growth by connecting entrepreneurs and investors and should not be halted due to risks, especially during periods of financial constraints.
The diagnostic dilemma of adrenal vascular tumors: analysis of 21 cases and systematic review of the literature
Authors: Coscia Kimberly , Ravaioli Caterina , Tucci Lorenzo , Colombin Giacomo , Donnarumma Francesca , Mosconi Cristina , Balacchi Caterina , Nanni Cristina , Alberici Laura , Selva Saverio , Pagotto Uberto , Santini Donatella , Tallini Giovanni , Di Dalmazi Guido , Vicennati Valentina , De Leo Antonio
Published: January 2025

Purpose

Adrenal vascular tumors are mainly represented by adrenal cavernous hemangiomas (ACHs) and adrenal cystic lymphangiomas (ACLs). Their radiological features often overlap with malignant tumors, therefore ruling out malignancy becomes mandatory. We analyzed clinical, radiological, and histopathological data to identify specific characteristics of these tumors.

Methods

We reviewed 21 patients with ACHs (n = 12), ACLs (n = 8), or adrenal cysts (n = 1) confirmed by histopathology. We selected 82 papers from PubMed to provide a systematic review of the literature.

Results

In our cohort, median age at diagnosis was 58 years, with sex evenly distributed. All tumors were unilateral (median size = 44 mm), with 6 cases of increasing tumor size. All tumors exhibited non-contrast CT density > 10 Hounsfield Unit (HU). Calcifications were found in 5 cases. Hormonal studies revealed 11 non-functioning tumors and 2 cortisol-secreting tumors. Elevated urinary metanephrines were found in 2 cases. Immunostaining showed CD31/CD34/factor VIII expression in ACHs (n = 5, 24%) and podoplanin expression in ACLs (n = 6, 29%). The literature review revealed 71 reported cases of ACHs and 104 reported cases of ACLs. Median age at diagnosis was 46 years, with slightly female prevalence (63%). Median tumor size was 48 mm. 84 cases were symptomatic, with life-threatening hemorrhage reported in only 3 patients. Calcifications were found in 23% of cases. Surgical approaches varied, with open and laparoscopic adrenalectomy performed in 55 and 42 patients respectively.

Conclusions

ACHs and ACLs represent a diagnostic dilemma in clinical practice due to their rarity and their misleading imaging features.
The Role of Urban Planning in Strengthening Urban Food Security in Africa: Insights from Lesotho, Zimbabwe and South Africa
Authors: Matooane Leemisa Simon , Matamanda Abraham , Bhanye Johannes , Nel Verna
Published: January 2025

This paper critically examines how urban planning influences food security in the rapidly urbanizing landscapes of Africa, focusing on Lesotho, Zimbabwe, and South Africa. These countries, with their distinct urban challenges and developmental contexts, provide a comparative framework for understanding the pivotal role of urban planning in addressing urban food security issues. The paper presents several core aspects of urban food systems: the integration of urban agriculture, the effectiveness of food distribution networks, the impact of spatial inequalities on food access, and the potential of collaborative governance to sustain urban food systems. The analysis reveals that despite varying degrees of urban infrastructure and economic conditions, commonalities exist in the challenges faced. Key findings suggest that proactive, innovative urban planning, tailored to the specific socio-economic contexts of each country, can significantly enhance food security. Strategic recommendations are proposed, advocating for comprehensive urban planning reforms that prioritise food system resilience, equitable land use, and infrastructural investment. This study contributes to studies on sustainable urban development by demonstrating how integrated urban planning and targeted policy interventions can significantly enhance the resilience and equity of urban food systems.
Simulation of Pedestrian Behaviour in Traffic Situations Using Risk-Based A* Pathfinding
Authors: Rinnert Tobias , Köpke Corinna , Kruse Antonio , Fehling-Kaschek Mirjam , Lüttner Florian , Stolz Alexander
Published: January 2025

Fatally injured vulnerable road users, especially pedestrians who collided with motorised vehicles, account for 31% of all recorded fatalities in urban traffic in the EU. Autonomous vehicles will improve this situation in the future, reducing the impact of the human factor in critical traffic situations. The development of autonomous driving functions requires simulation environments to train certain behaviours. Consequently, these simulations need well represented vulnerable road users. In this paper, an approach for accurate prediction of pedestrian behaviour at street crossings is presented. The suggested solution involves an agent-based model working with A* pathfinding and risk-based areas, validated by a drone dataset on German road crossings.
Pilot Study on Using Large Language Models for Educational Resource Development in Japanese Radiological Technologist Exams
Authors: Kondo Tatsuya , Okamoto Masashi , Kondo Yohan
Published: January 2025

In this study, we explored the potential application of large language models (LLMs) to the development of educational resources for medical licensure exams in non-English-speaking contexts, focusing on the Japanese Radiological Technologist National Exam. We categorized multiple-choice questions into image-based, calculation, and textual types. We generated explanatory texts using Copilot, an LLM integrated with Microsoft Bing, and assessed their quality on a 0–4-point scale. LLMs achieved high performance for textual questions, which demonstrated their strong capability to process specialized content. However, we identified challenges in generating accurate formulas and performing calculations for calculation questions, as well as in interpreting complex medical images in image-based questions. To address these issues, we suggest using LLMs with programming functionalities for calculations and using keyword-based prompts for medical image interpretation. The findings highlight the active role of educators in managing LLM-supported learning environments, particularly by validating outputs and providing supplementary guidance to ensure accuracy. Furthermore, the rapid evolution of LLM technology necessitates continuous adaptation of utilization strategies to align with their advancing capabilities. In this study, we underscored the potential of LLMs to enhance educational practices in non-English-speaking regions, while addressing critical challenges to improve their reliability and utility.
Cultivating Cultures of Care within Communities of Children in Schools – Exploring the Interdependence of Children’s Collective and Individual Development
Authors: Gylling-Andersen Thomas
Published: January 2025

With many school systems worldwide facing several crises, such as inequality and a lack of well-being among schoolchildren, understanding how to care for, and support care among, these children must be a vital commitment for researchers and school professionals. Hence, this article introduces the notion of cultures of care within communities of children, emphasising care as a collective-transformative practice where children develop cultural tools to transform or navigate within the shared conditions of life with which they struggle. Drawing on cultural-historical and critical branches of psychology, a qualitative case analysis explores how an intervention framework (developed by this article’s author and a schoolteacher) seemed to support the development of a culture of care within a community of children at a Danish municipal primary school. Analyses of observational fieldnotes and interview excerpts suggest how the participating children engaged in negotiating, developing and expanding their shared repertoire of caring cultural tools with the purpose of creating a future in the community where the collective struggles of the present are less challenging. Focusing on the developmental implications, both for the community and for a boy in a marginalised position, the analysis sheds light on the interdependence of collective and individual development, as the children simultaneously care for the development of themselves and their community. Finally, it is discussed how pedagogical initiatives in schools that aim to care for children in marginalised positions as well as for the entire community must acknowledge the activist nature of schoolchildren and the collective nature of their agency.
A 6.49-Mb inversion associated with the purple embryo spot trait in potato
Authors: Wang Pei , Cheng Lin , Pan Jun , Ma Lianlian , Hu Xiaojing , Zhang Zhong , Li Dawei , Zhu Yanhui , Chang Shiwei , Yuan Pingping , Kear Philip , Lassois Ludivine , Zhu Guangtao , Huang Sanwen , Du Hui , Zhang Chunzhi
Published: January 2025

The embryo spot trait leads to a deep purple or reddish coloration at the base of the cotyledons of the embryo, visible on both sides of flat potato (Solanum tuberosum) seeds. This trait has long been used by potato researchers and breeders as a morphological marker during dihaploid induction. The formation of embryo spots reflects the accumulation of anthocyanins, but the genetic basis of this trait remains unclear. In this study, we mapped the embryo spot trait to a 6.78-Mb region at the end of chromosome 10 using an F2 population derived from a cross between spotted and spotless plants. The recombination rate in the candidate region is severely suppressed, posing challenges for the map-based cloning of the underlying gene and suggesting large-scale rearrangements in this region. A de novo genome assembly of the spotted individual and a comparative genomic analysis to the reference genome of spotless potato revealed a 6.49-Mb inversion present in the spotted plant genome. The left breakpoint of this inversion occurred in the promoter region of an R2R3 MYB transcription factor gene that is highly expressed in the cotyledon base of spotted embryos but is not expressed in that of spotless embryos. This study elucidated the genetic basis for embryo spot formation in potato and provides a foundation for future cloning of the causative gene.
Unravelling the modes of phototoxicity of NIR absorbing chlorophyll derivative in cancer cells under normoxic and hypoxic conditions
Authors: Chatterjee Sucharita , Dube Alok , Majumder Shovan Kumar
Published: January 2025

The efficacy of photodynamic treatment (PDT) against deep-seated tumor is hindered by low penetration depth of light as well as hypoxic conditions which prevails in tumor. To overcome this limitation, Near-infrared (NIR) absorbing photosensitizers have been investigated actively. In the present study we evaluated the PDT efficacy of an NIR absorbing chlorophyll derivative ‘Cycloimide Purpurin-18 (CIPp-18)’ in Human Breast carcinoma (MCF-7) and cervical adenocarcinoma (Hela) cells under normoxic and hypoxic conditions. PDT with CIPp-18 (2.0 µM, 3 h) and NIR light (700 ± 25 nm, 0.36–1.4 J /cm2) induced potent phototoxicity in both the cell lines. Under hypoxic conditions, PDT induced ~ 32% and 42% phototoxicity at LD50 and LD70 light dose, respectively, which corresponds to phototoxic dose under normoxia. CIPp-18 in neat buffer (pH 7.4) showed generation of singlet oxygen (1O2) as well as superoxide (O2

·–) radicals. Studies on ROS generation in cells using fluorescence probes and the effect of mechanistic probes of 1O2 (Sodium Azide, Histidine, D2O) and free radicals (DMSO, Mannitol, Cyanocobalamin, SOD-PEG) on phototoxicity show that 1O2 plays major role in phototoxicity under normoxia. Whereas, under hypoxic conditions, PDT led to no significant generation of ROS and phototoxicity remained unaffected by cyanocobalamin, a quencher of O2

·–. Moreover, CIPp-18 showed localization in cell membrane and PDT led to more pronounced loss of membrane permeability in cells under hypoxia than for normoxia. These results demonstrate that CIPp-18 is suitable for PDT of cancer cells under hypoxia and also suggest that phototoxicity under hypoxia is mediated via ROS-independent contact-dependent mechanism.

Graphical abstract
Artificial intelligence-based smart galliformes farm management system
Authors: Himel Galib Muhammad Shahriar , Islam Md. Masudul , Kader Md. Nasimul , Rahman Mustafizur
Published: January 2025

This article introduces an Artificial Intelligent-driven system for Galliformes Farm Management, consulting, and disease control. Comprising both a web-based mobile app and a website, the system integrates physical electronic devices to regulate intelligent automation. The application employs Artificial Neural Network and computer vision for the identification of breeds and the recognition of diseases in galliform birds, utilizing TensorFlow for real-time detection. It notifies local farmers about bird flu infections with an integrated infection map using Google's map Application Programming Interface. The system also controls farm temperature and humidity through microcontrollers and sensors, offering consulting features such as cost calculation, food chart generation, and drug suggestions.
Sugarcane biomass-derived biochar for soil quality enhancement in sugarcane-growing soil
Authors: Aluthge Mayuri D. , Weerasinghe Asiri S. , Wickramasinghe Upeksha M. , Kulasekara Buddhika R. , Kumarasiri Lahiru M. , Cooray Asitha T. , Rajapaksha Suneth P. , Vithanage Meththika
Published: January 2025

This study explored the barrel technique for biochar production, comparing it with laboratory-prepared biochar by evaluating the effect on sugarcane-growing soil quality. Different sugarcane biomass (bagasse, trash, and mini mill waste) derived biochar was prepared using a muffle furnace at three different temperatures (300, 450, and 600 °C) and with the barrel technique. Biochar was characterized by yield, pH, electrical conductivity (EC), proximate and ultimate analysis, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis, and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) characterization. A pot experiment was conducted with soil amendments with biochar (bagasse biochar pyrolyzed at 450 °C–BBC-450 and bagasse biochar prepared from barrel technique–BBC-BT) at a 2.5% (w/w) rate. The initial, 45-day, and 90-day soil samples were analyzed by selected soil chemical and physical parameters. The soil quality index of the 90-day soil samples was determined. Sugarcane biomass-derived biochar was rich in carbon content (64.68%–85.43%). Biochar amendment led to significant enhancements in soil pH, EC, organic carbon (OC), water holding capacity, total N, available P and Zn, and exchangeable K, Ca, and Mg. The results of the 90-day soil samples indicated an increase in soil OC by 1.22% due to both biochar amendments relative to the controls. Available P increased by 2.59% in BBC-BT amended soil and by 23.05% in BBC-450 amended soil. The EC increment due to soil amendments with BBC-BT and BBC-450 was 33.33% and 16.67%, respectively, in the 90-day soil samples. The highest soil quality index was observed in BBC-BT. It can be concluded that BBC-BT enhances the soil quality of sugarcane-growing soil, and the barrel technique could serve as a viable option for small-scale farmers and for domestic use in producing biochar.

Graphical Abstract
Mental Health Disorders in Pregnancy and the Early Postpartum
Authors: Schofield Zena , Schofield Zack
Published: January 2025

Mental health disorders are common in pregnancy and after childbirth with over 10% of women manifesting some form of mental illness during this time. Maternity services will encounter women with symptoms that vary in severity from mild self-limiting to potentially life-threatening. These conditions carry risks for both the woman and the fetus/newborn. Detecting women with, or at risk of, a serious mental health disorder and enabling them to access appropriate care in a timely fashion is a shared responsibility. However, given the frequency of contact they have with women through this period, maternity services have a pivotal role. From a mental health perspective, high-risk pregnancies are those primarily associated with serious mental illness (psychotic illnesses, bipolar disorder and severe depressive episodes). Healthcare professionals caring for pregnant women should have the appropriate skills to detect serious mental illness and identify women at risk and how to access specialist mental health care.
Relationship of Atmospheric Nitrogen Deposition to Soil Nitrogen Cycling Along an Elevation Gradient in the Colorado Front Range
Authors: Repert Deborah A. , Heindel Ruth C. , Murphy Sheila F. , Jeanis Kaitlyn M.
Published: January 2025

Microbial processing of atmospheric nitrogen (N) deposition regulates the retention and mobilization of N in soils, with important implications for water quality. Understanding the links between N deposition, microbial communities, N transformations, and water quality is critical as N deposition shifts toward reduced N and remains persistently high in many regions. Here, we investigated these connections along an elevation transect in the Colorado Front Range. Although rates of N deposition and pools of extractable N increased down the elevation transect, soil microbial communities and N transformation rates did not follow clear elevational patterns. The subalpine microbial community was distinct, corresponding to a high C:N ratio and low pH, while the microbial communities at the lower elevation sites were all very similar. Net nitrification, mineralization, and nitrification potential rates were highest at the Plains (1,700 m) and Montane (2,527 m) sites, suggesting that these ecosystems mobilize N. In contrast, the net immobilization of N observed at the Foothills (1,978 m) and Subalpine (3,015 m) sites suggests that these ecosystems retain N deposition. The contrast in N transformation rates between the plains and foothills, both of which receive elevated N deposition, may be due to spatial heterogeneity not captured in this study and warrants further investigation. Stream N concentrations from the subalpine to the foothills were consistently low, indicating that these soils are currently able to process and retain N deposition, but this may be disrupted if drought, wildfire, or land‐use change alter the ability of the soils to retain N.
Structural basis for the interaction between the Drosophila RTK Sevenless (dROS1) and the GPCR BOSS
Authors: Zhang Jianan , Tsutsui Yuko , Li Hengyi , Li Tongqing , Wang Yueyue , Laraki Salma , Alarcon-Frias Sofia , Stayrook Steven E. , Klein Daryl E.
Published: January 2025

Sevenless, the Drosophila homologue of ROS1 (University of Rochester Sarcoma) (herein, dROS1) is a receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) essential for the differentiation of Drosophila R7 photoreceptor cells. Activation of dROS1 is mediated by binding to the extracellular region (ECR) of the GPCR (G protein coupled receptor) BOSS (Bride Of Sevenless) on adjacent cells. Activation of dROS1 by BOSS leads to subsequent downstream signaling pathways including SOS (Son of Sevenless). However, the physical basis for how dROS1 interacts with BOSS has long remained unknown. Here we provide a cryo-EM structure of dROS1’s extracellular region, which mediates ligand binding. We show that the extracellular region of dROS1 adopts a folded-over conformation stabilized by an N-terminal domain comprised of two disulfide stapled helical hairpins. We further narrowed down the interacting binding epitopes on both dROS1 and BOSS using hydrogen-deuterium exchange mass spectrometry (HDX-MS). This includes beta-strands in dROS1’s third Fibronectin type III (FNIII) domain and a C-terminal peptide in BOSS’ ECR. Our mutagenesis studies, coupled with AlphaFold complex predictions, support a binding interaction mediated by a hydrophobic interaction and beta-strand augmentation between these regions. Our findings provide a fundamental understanding of the regulatory function of dROS1 and further provide mechanistic insight into the human ortholog and oncogene ROS1.