bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Kampf dem Papiertiger
Authors: Balcerek Michael
Published: February 2025

In der Instandhaltung von Industrieanlagen sind digitale Lösungen der Schlüssel zum Erfolg. Eine neue App digitalisiert Prüfabläufe von Flanschen. Dies reduziert Fehlerquellen, spart Zeit und verbessert die Effizienz. Die App funktioniert auch offline und lässt sich flexibel an Systemstandards anpassen. Mit integriertem Ticketsystem und Echtzeit‐Datenzugriff wird die Qualitätssicherung während des Projekts kontinuierlich gewährleistet.
Eigensichere Smartphones für die Instandhaltung in Kalundborg
Authors: Uhl Christian
Published: February 2025

In der Raffinerie Kalundborg, dem größten Energiepark Dänemarks, werden eigensichere Smartphones eingesetzt, um die Instandhaltungsprozesse zu digitalisieren und die Sicherheit zu erhöhen. Über 100 Ex‐Handy 10 und Smart‐Ex 02 sowie Version 03 unterstützen die Mobile Worker bei Inspektionen, Datenerhebungen und der Einhaltung von Compliance‐Vorschriften. Die Umstellung von papierbasierten auf digitale Prozesse hat die Effizienz und Genauigkeit erheblich verbessert.
An overview of the potential utilization of solid acid catalysts for enhanced biodiesel production through hydrodynamic cavitation assistance: A mini‐review
Authors: Sai Bharadwaj Aryasomayajula Venkata Satya Lakshmi , Gupta Navneet Kumar
Published: February 2025

Utilizing a catalytic approach for producing biodiesel from non‐edible oils holds promise as a solution for the next generation of fuels. Therefore, the emerging research on replacing conventional catalysts and developing new waste‐derived heterogeneous catalysts with acid–base properties in the intensified biodiesel production process aims to achieve significant scientific outcomes including developing a low‐cost biorefinery and mitigating the increasing energy demand. Hence, a prospective replacement of green renewable solid acid catalysts over conventional or regularly used catalysts in the production of biodiesel using hydrodynamic cavitation‐assisted reactors has been discussed in this review. The synthesis and importance of different solid acid catalysts zeolite‐based and heteropolyacids is also discussed in this review. It is concluded that, to date, these catalysts are well used in biomass pyrolysis and very minimal in the pretreatment of lignocellulosic biomass, but there is no proper report on their application in the biodiesel synthesis from various non‐commercial feedstocks. In this study, it is also reported that the hydrodynamic cavitation‐assisted synthesis of biodiesel represents a novel approach with the potential to significantly boost yield and serve as a breakthrough method for industrial applications. The economic survey, circular economy, and life‐cycle assessment studies concerning the proposed study are also presented in this study, from which it is concluded that the complete replacement of these green catalysts in the production of biodiesel will aid in the development of a clean and green sustainable environment.
Prognosis of Out‐of‐Hospital Cardiac Arrest in Underserved Rural Area
Authors: Ezon Dor , Shwartz Hagay , Gleitman Sagi , Israeli Zeev , Miller Asaf , Birati Edo Y.
Published: February 2025

Background

Epidemiological data are lacking on patients in the rural areas who are being admitted after out‐of‐hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA). We report here the first descriptive analysis study of patients who were hospitalized and treated after OHCA at an academic medical center in the Lower Galilee which located in the north part of Israel.

Methods

This is a descriptive, retrospective analysis of all patients admitted after OHCA to Tzafon Medical Center between the years 2017 and 2023. The analysis consists of the epidemiological, social, and clinical data based on the electronic medical records.

Results

A total of 62 patients were included in this analysis, 82% were men with a median age of 61.5 years old. Thirty‐four percent had history of ischemic heart disease (IHD) and 60% history of hypertension. Twenty‐seven (44%) patients died during their admission. In 49 (79%) patients the first rhythm on emergency medical service (EMS) arrival was a shockable rhythm and 30 (48%) patients had a ST‐elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) on electrocardiogram (ECG). Patients who were admitted to the hospital after OHCA were more likely to be discharged alive if they had no history of IHD (n = 27; p = 0.037), hypertension, or hyperlipidemia. Moreover, the presence of first shockable rhythm on the first ECG that performed by EMS was associated with higher rates of survival (n = 33; p < 0.001).

Conclusions

We present the first single‐center epidemiological analysis of patients admitted after OHCA at a rural area in Israel, with an in‐hospital survival rate of 56%. Patients without history of IHD, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and acute kidney injury and those with first shockable rhythm were more likely to discharged alive.
Phenomapping the Response of Patients With Ischemic Cardiomyopathy With Reduced Ejection Fraction to Surgical Revascularization
Authors: Satish Tejus , Hendren Nicholas S. , Peltz Matthias , Heid Christopher A. , Farr Maryjane , Bavry Anthony , Girotra Saket , Kumbhani Dharam J. , Drazner Mark H. , Tang W. H. Wilson , Grodin Justin L.
Published: February 2025

Background

Coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) has demonstrated long‐term mortality benefits in patients with HFREF and obstructive coronary artery disease (CAD), but whether phenotypic heterogeneity influences the benefits of CABG is unknown. We applied clustering analysis to STICHES (Surgical Treatment for Ischemic Heart Failure Extension Study) to identify phenogroups with different long‐term risk profiles and investigate differences in CABG benefits between phenogroups.

Methods and Results

STICHES was a randomized controlled trial evaluating the effect of CABG in addition to medical therapy versus medical therapy alone. We split the STICHES participants into derivation (n = 753) and validation (n = 459) cohorts. We phenomapped the derivation cohort using penalized model‐based clustering. We fit multivariable Cox models to investigate long‐term differences in all‐cause mortality, cardiovascular (CV) mortality, and a composite of all‐cause mortality/CV hospitalization between phenogroups and whether phenogroup assignment modified the effects of CABG on these outcomes. Findings were internally validated on the validation cohort. Four phenogroups were identified in the derivation cohort. The highest‐risk group was at a twofold greater risk of death (HR: 2.0, 95% CI: 1.4–2.9, p < 0.001) and CV death (HR: 2.0, 95% CI: 1.3–3.1, p = 0.002), and a 1.5‐fold greater risk for death/CV hospitalization (HR: 1.5, 95% CI: 1.1–2.1, p = 0.016). Phenogroup assignment did not modify the effects of CABG on the outcomes (p > 0.05 for all). Similar results were obtained in the validation cohort.

Conclusions

The beneficial effects of CABG on all‐cause mortality, CV mortality, and a composite of all‐cause mortality and CV hospitalization persist despite phenotypic heterogeneity in HFREF and CAD.
Design and Synthesis of 68Ga‐Labeled Peptide‐Based Heterodimers for Dual Targeting of NTS1 and GRPR
Authors: Bodin Sacha , Previti Santo , Jestin Emmanuelle , Rémond Emmanuelle , Vimont Delphine , Lamare Frédéric , Ait‐Arsa Imade , Hindié Elif , Cavelier Florine , Morgat Clément
Published: February 2025

Tumor heterogeneity remains one of the main obstacles for cancer diagnosis and treatment. The simultaneous targeting of several cancer biomarkers is an appealing approach for improved diagnostic procedures. Neurotensin receptor 1 (NTS1) and Gastrin‐Releasing Peptide Receptor (GRPR) are both G‐protein coupled receptors with complementary profile of expression in several cancer types. This work proposes the design, the synthesis and the in vitro radiopharmaceutical characterization of three heterodimers, based on GRP/NT modified peptides, radiolabeled with gallium‐68. Two NTS1/GRPR targeting pharmacophores containing linear hybrids that differ in the C‐terminus were synthesized (i. e., JMV 7110 and JMV 7253). The branched analogue of the silicon‐containing heterodimer JMV 7110, namely JMV 7266, was also synthesized. After radiolabeling with 68Ga, saturation binding studies performed on HT29 (NTS1+/GRPR−) and PC3 (NTS1+/GRPR+) cells demonstrated a significant loss in NTS1 and GRPR affinity compared to the reference monomers with the exception of the NTS1 affinity of [68Ga]Ga‐JMV 7266 which was preserved. Considering cellular processing, NTS1‐internalization at 1 h was the highest with [68Ga]Ga‐JMV 7266 and was similar to the reference compound. Interestingly [68Ga]Ga‐JMV 7266 demonstrated lower efflux than the other linear heterodimers but also than its NT reference compound. The branched structure of [68Ga]Ga‐JMV 7266 seems beneficial for dual NTS1/GRPR targeting.
Computation of Viscoelastic Shear Shock Waves Using Finite Volume Schemes With Artificial Compressibility
Authors: Berjamin Harold
Published: February 2025

The formation of shear shock waves in the brain has been proposed as one of the plausible explanations for deep intracranial injuries. In fact, such singular solutions emerge naturally in soft viscoelastic tissues under dynamic loading conditions. To improve our understanding of the mechanical processes at hand, the development of dedicated computational models is needed. The present study concerns three‐dimensional numerical models of incompressible viscoelastic solids whose motion is analysed by means of shock‐capturing finite volume methods. More specifically, we focus on the use of the artificial compressibility method, a technique that has been frequently employed in computational fluid dynamics. The material behaviour is deduced from the Fung–Simo quasi‐linear viscoelasiticity (QLV) theory where the elastic response is of Yeoh type. We analyse the accuracy of the method and demonstrate its applicability for the study of nonlinear wave propagation in soft solids. The numerical results cover accuracy tests, shock formation and wave focusing.
Coupled Finite Element Model of the Middle and Inner Ear as Virtual Test Environment for Stapes Surgery
Authors: Burovikhin D. , Lauxmann M.
Published: February 2025

In order to evaluate the performance of different types of middle‐ear prostheses, a model of human ear was developed. The model was created using finite element (FE) method with the ossicles modeled as rigid bodies. First, the middle‐ear FE model was developed and validated using the middle‐ear transfer function measurements available in literature including pathological cases. Then, the inner‐ear FE model was developed and validated using tonotopy, impedance, and relative BM motion level curves from literature. Both models are based on preexisting research with some improvements and were combined into one coupled FE model. The stapes in the coupled FE ear model was replaced with a model of a stapes prosthesis to create a reconstructed ear model that can be used to estimate how different types of stapes protheses perform relative to each other as well as to the natural ear. The influence of the diameter of the prosthesis as well as the influence of the sealing and opening of the gap in the footplate were investigated along with different measures such as maximum basilar membrane displacement, intracochlear pressure, pressure in scala vestibuli, oval and round window volume displacements, and prosthesis displacement. This will help in designing new innovative types of stapes prostheses or any other type of middle‐ear prostheses, as well as to improve the ones that are already available on the market.
Bone Health Deterioration in Transfemoral Prosthetic Users: An Analytical Biomechanical Explanation
Authors: Zavaleta‐Ruiz Jose L. , Major Matthew J. , Pankaj Pankaj
Published: February 2025

There is a five‐decade recorded history indicating that persons with transfemoral amputation experience bone loss in their amputated femur at levels seen in bedridden and post‐menopausal individuals, irrespective of age or mobility levels. We used computer simulation to recreate the mechanical environment created by the mechanical design of a prosthetic device in the surviving femur of individuals with transfemoral amputations. Finite element models of gait instances were developed from the hip joint computerized tomography scan of a subject along with a coupled ischial containment prosthetic socket fitted as per standard clinical guidelines. Accompanying mirror models, assembled similarly but without the prosthetic socket were used for stimulus comparison. Simulation showed that more than 90% of the trabecular bone volume in the amputated femur with an ischial containment socket registered compressive strain magnitudes below 300με. These strain magnitudes are below the threshold for bone maintenance as per mechanotransduction theory (i.e., they lie within the disuse window). Only 50% of the bone was in the disuse window for the mirror model for the gait instances considered. These results are consistent with reported in vivo evidence which shows that transfemoral prosthesis users may lose bone mass irrespective of age or mobility levels when using traditional socket designs. Clinically, this study shows that prosthetic sockets that support load through the ischium alter the kinetic chain and preclude application of mechanical stimulus that sustains healthy levels of bone mass in the proximal femur. The study also shows that femur length, prosthetic alignment and tissue tone influence this stimulus.
Comparison of Structural Behavior Following Bone Scaffold Implantation in Multi‐Resolution Proximal Femur Images
Authors: Choi Jun Won , Kim Jung Jin
Published: February 2025

Bone scaffolds are increasingly regarded as viable alternatives to autografts and allografts in clinical settings. However, their effectiveness can vary based on certain anatomical characteristics, highlighting the importance of image‐based structural analysis. High‐resolution imaging is crucial to accurately assess the performance of bone scaffolds. Despite this, the resolution of current clinical medical images is constrained by concerns regarding radiation exposure. The efficacy of these analyses can be improved by quantitatively evaluating the similarities and differences between low‐ and high‐resolution images. This study quantitatively compared the structural behavior of bone scaffolds using both high‐ and low‐resolution images. This study downscaled a high‐resolution image, implanted a bone scaffold, and conducted finite element analysis. The findings suggest that the resolution needed for accurate structural analysis of skeletal images varies based on the implantation site of the scaffold. Additionally, it was found that the less influence the loading conditions have, the higher the resolution required to accurately assess the structural behavior.
The Role of Chronic Stress in the Pathogenesis of Ischemic Heart Disease in Women
Authors: Cairns Megan , Marais Erna , Joseph Danzil , Essop M. Faadiel
Published: February 2025

Psychological stress has emerged as a critical risk factor for cardiovascular disease, especially in women. While female participation in clinical research has improved, sex‐specific data analysis and reporting often remain inadequate, limiting our ability to draw definitive conclusions for women. Conversely, preclinical studies consistently demonstrate adverse effects of stress on female health, yet the molecular mechanisms underlying this association remain elusive. Evidence suggests that female IHD pathogenesis is more complex than in males, involving multiple factors, including inflammation, contractile dysfunction, bioenergetic impairment, and remodeling. However, many of these mechanisms are primarily derived from male studies, and molecular investigations in female models are limited, hindering our understanding of the underlying biological pathways. This is particularly concerning given the increasing prevalence of ischemic heart disease in postmenopausal women. In order to fully elucidate the impact of stress on female cardiac health and develop targeted interventions, further preclinical research on female models is essential.
2H,3H‐Decafluoropentane Endorsed Localized High Concentration Electrolyte for Low‐Temperature Lithium‐Metal Batteries
Authors: Wang Jie , Liu Yubin , Lei Haikuo , Sun Wenbin , Huang Xiaoyu , Ruan Yanli
Published: February 2025

A lithium‐metal battery's electrochemical performance is affected by the kinetics of desolvation and ion transport at low temperatures. Here, we propose a low‐temperature lithium‐metal battery electrolyte. 1,2‐Dimethoxyethane (DME) is used as the solvent, 2H,3H‐decafluoropentane (HFC) as the diluent, and a high concentration of lithium bis(fluorosulfonyl)imide (LiFSI) as the solute. The addition of HFC diluent increases the number of anions bound to lithium ions and decreases the number of solvents in the solvation structure, which is conducive to the desolvation process at low temperatures. In addition, the anion‐dominated solvation structure is conducive to the formation of an inorganic rich solid electrolyte interface (SEI), which effectively enhances the compatibility of LHCE‐HFC electrolyte with lithium metal. The LHCE‐HFC achieves ultra‐high coulombic efficiency of lithium metal anode in Li||Cu batteries (99.31 %) and Li||Li batteries (1080 h) that have strong fluorine content in the interface. The Li||LiFePO4 (LFP) cells provide a discharge‐specific capacity of 92.1 mAh g−1 at 0.2 C at −20 °C and capacity retention of 89.6 % after 200 cycles.
Creating Optimal Western Blot Conditions for OPA1 Isoforms in Skeletal Muscle Cells and Tissue
Authors: Mungai Margaret , Crabtree Amber , Le Han , Moore Johnathan , Nguyen Desiree , Rodriguez Benjamin , Harris Chanel , Stephens Dominique C. , Beasley Heather K. , Garza‐Lopez Edgar , Neikirk Kit , Shao Bryanna , Oliver Ashton , Wilson Genesis , Bacevac Serif , Vang Larry , Vue Zer , Vue Neng , Marshall Andrea G. , Turner Kyrin , Zaganjor Elma , Shao Jianqiang , Murray Sandra , Gaddy Jennifer A. , Wanjalla Celestine , Davis Jamaine , Damo Steven M. , Banks Lori D. , Hinton Antentor
Published: February 2025

OPA1 is a dynamin‐related GTPase that modulates mitochondrial dynamics and cristae integrity. Humans carry eight different isoforms of OPA1 and mice carry five, all of which are expressed as short‐ or long‐form isoforms. These isoforms contribute to OPA1's ability to control mitochondrial energetics and DNA maintenance. However, western blot isolation of all long and short isoforms of OPA1 can be difficult. To address this issue, we developed an optimized western blot protocol based on improving running time to isolate five different isoforms of OPA1 in mouse cells and tissues. This protocol can be applied to study changes in mitochondrial structure and function. © 2025 The Author(s). Current Protocols published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Basic Protocol: Western Blot Protocol for Isolating OPA1 Isoforms in Mouse Primary Skeletal Muscle Cells
Shadows of Corporate Social Responsibility: An Experimental Study on Intensity, Motives, and Legitimacy in Organizational Reputation
Authors: Shahid Subhan
Published: February 2025

The study examines when and how corporate social responsibility (CSR) intensity (high vs. low) leads to higher perceived organizational reputation. Drawing on stakeholder theory, the study also theorizes the mediating role of perceived organizational legitimacy and the moderating role of CSR motives (strategic vs. altruistic). Two studies, using a 2 × 2 between‐subject experimental design, are empirically tested using analysis of variance and Process macro moderated mediation analysis. Findings affirm that high CSR intensity leads to higher perceived organizational reputation via perceived organizational legitimacy. Additionally, the study demonstrates that altruistic CSR motives significantly strengthen the relationship between CSR intensity and positive stakeholder perceptions, compared with strategically driven motives. This finding offers essential empirical evidence regarding the impact of CSR implementation, shedding light on the psychological processes that stakeholders engage in when evaluating an organization's legitimacy and reputation. By focusing on how these cognitive assessments are formed, the research deepens our understanding of the nuanced role CSR motives play in shaping stakeholder perceptions.
Predicting ESG Controversies in Banks Using Machine Learning Techniques
Authors: Dipierro Anna Rita , Barrionuevo Fernando Jimenéz , Toma Pierluigi
Published: February 2025

Mistreating environmental, social, and governance (ESG) concerns has serious drawbacks in organizations of any type, and even more in banks. Deeply revolutionized in its taxonomy of risks, banking sector is herein evaluated in its integration of ESG parameters that, when lacking, leads to ESG‐related controversies (ESGC). Thereby, this research approaches the almost uncharted territory of ESGC in banks, by means of machine learning. Aiming at selecting the set of features that are relevant in ESGC prediction, techniques belonging to feature selection are used over a real panel dataset of 140 banks evaluated for a wide set of features over 2011–2020 time‐span. We find the power that governance‐employees dynamics detains in making out‐of‐sample predictions and forecasting of ESGC banks' risk. Finally, we provide implications for researchers, practitioners and regulators, further confirming the need for the rapid inroads that machine learning tools are actually making in the banking toolkit and in the regulatory technology.
Selective Recovery of Critical Minerals from Simulated Electronic Wastes Via Reaction‐Diffusion Coupling
Authors: Wang Qingpu , Fu Yucheng , Miller Erin A. , Song Duo , Brahana Philip J. , Ritchhart Andrew , Xu Zhijie , Johnson Grant E. , Bharti Bhuvnesh , Sushko Maria L. , Nakouzi Elias
Published: February 2025

Atom‐ and energy‐efficient chemical separations are urgently needed to meet the surging demand for critical materials that has strained supply chains and threatened environmental damage. In this study, we used reaction‐diffusion coupling to separate iron, neodymium, and dysprosium ions from model feedstocks of permanent magnets, which are typically found in electronic wastes. Feedstock solutions were placed in contact with a hydrogel loaded with potassium hydroxide and/or dibutyl phosphate, resulting in complex precipitation patterns as the various metal ions diffused into the reaction medium. Specifically, we observed the precipitation of up to 40 mM of iron from the feedstock, followed by the enrichment of 73 % dysprosium, and the extraction of >95 % neodymium product at a further distance from the solution‐gel interface. We designed a series of experiments and simulations to determine the relevant ion diffusivities, DNd=5.4×10−10 and DDy=5.1×10−10 m2/s, and precipitation rates, kNd =1.0×10−5 and kDy=5.0×10−3 m9 mol−3 s−1, which enabled a numerical model to be established for predicting the distribution of products in the reaction medium. Our proof‐of‐concept study validates reaction‐diffusion coupling as an effective and versatile approach for critical materials separations, without relying on ligands, membranes, resins, or other specialty chemicals.
Enhanced Charge and Energy Transfer in All‐Small‐Molecule Ternary Organic Solar Cells: Transient Photocurrent and Photovoltage and Transient Photoluminescence Measurements
Authors: Caballero Rubén , de la Cruz Pilar , Langa Fernando , Singhal Rahul , Sharma Ganesh D.
Published: February 2025

A donor‐acceptor‐donor (D−A−D) molecule, denoted as RC18, consisting of two nickel‐porphyrin terminal donor units (D) and a selenophene‐flanked diketopyrrolopyrrole central core, connected via an ethynylene linker has been synthesized. The highest occupied molecular orbital and lowest unoccupied molecular orbital energy levels were measured showing values of −5.49 eV and −3.75 eV, respectively. We have utilized RC18 as donor along with two acceptors, DICTF and Y6, for OSCs and found that power conversion efficiencies were 12.10 % and 12.59 % for RC18:DICTF and RC18:Y6, respectively. The complementary absorption profiles of RC18, DICTF and Y6, along with the intermediate LUMO level of DICTF between RC18 and Y6, led to the fabrication of ternary organic solar cells. RC18:DICTF:Y6 based ternary attained power conversion efficiency of 16.06 %. The observed enhancement in the PCE is attributed to efficient exciton utilization through energy transfer from DICTF to Y6, increased donor‐acceptor interfacial area, suppressed charge carrier recombination and improved molecular ordering. These all factors contribute to improvements in short‐circuit current density (JSC) and fill factor (FF). Additionally, the open‐circuit voltage (VOC) of the ternary OSC lies between those of the two binary OSCs indicating the formation of an alloy between the two acceptors.
Water‐Triggered Direct Air Capture by Strong Organic Bases
Authors: Grundtvig Utzon Anders , Lee Ji‐Woong
Published: February 2025

A key challenge for sorbent‐mediated temperature‐swing direct air capture remains to maximize the difference in CO2 loading under capture and regeneration conditions (i. e. the working capacity) while minimizing the thermal energy input required to alternate between the two equilibrium states. Herein, peralkylated guanidines were shown to capture close to 1 molar equivalent (or up 4.5 mol CO2/kg absorbent) directly from moist air (>60 % RH) at room temperature and completely release the entire quantity of captured CO2 upon co‐evaporation of water at 70 °C affording concentrated CO2 with a vapor content of 3 mol% and achieving a high working capacity with minimum temperature swing of 45 °C.
Post‐COVID‐19 pulmonary fibrosis: Mechanisms, biomarkers, and therapeutic perspectives
Authors: Sardarni Urvinder Kaur , Byrareddy Siddappa N.
Published: February 2025

Post‐COVID‐19 pulmonary fibrosis (post‐CPF) has emerged as a serious complication with profound implications for long‐term respiratory health. This short review explores the multifactorial mechanisms underlying post‐CPF, emphasising the role of oxidative stress, epithelial‐to‐mesenchymal transition (EMT), and dysregulated immune responses. Key signalling pathways, such as TGF‐β, WNT, and Cadherin, are pivotal in fibrosis progression, offering potential therapeutic targets. Biomarkers, such as MUC4, KRT5, and ATP12A show promise for early detection and therapeutic targeting, as they share molecular features with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) and fibrotic interstitial lung diseases (f‐ILDs), suggesting opportunities to repurpose antifibrotic therapies. Despite these advancements, significant gaps remain in understanding the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying fibrosis progression, hindering effective management of post‐CPF. Addressing these challenges through a targeted approach is critical to improving outcomes for survivors of severe COVID‐19.
Monocyte–macrophage dynamics as key in disparate lung and peripheral immune responses in severe anti‐melanoma differentiation‐associated gene 5‐positive dermatomyositis‐related interstitial lung disease
Authors: Shi Jia , Pei Xiaoya , Peng Jinmin , Wu Chanyuan , Lv Yulin , Wang Xiaoman , Zhou Yangzhong , Yuan Xueting , Dong Xingbei , Zhou Shuang , Xu Dong , Zhao Jiuliang , Liu Jun , Huang Jiao , Du Bin , Yao Chen , Zeng Xiaofeng , Li Mengtao , Chen Houzao , Wang Qian
Published: February 2025

Background

Anti‐melanoma differentiation‐associated gene 5‐positive dermatomyositis (anti‐MDA5+ DM) is a rare inflammatory autoimmune disorder often complicated by life‐threatening rapidly progressive interstitial lung disease (RP‐ILD). The underlying mechanisms driving immune dysfunction and lung injury, however, remain poorly understood. The study aims to gain insights into the disrupted immune landscape in peripheral and pulmonary compartments of severe anti‐MDA5+ DM and explore potential therapeutic targets.

Methods

We employed single‐cell RNA sequencing to examine cellular constituents within five patients’ bronchoalveolar lavage fluid and paired peripheral blood mononuclear cells. Luminex assay and flow cytometry were further applied to validate the results.

Results

Our analysis revealed starkly contrasting immune landscapes between the periphery and lungs, with peripheral immune suppression juxtaposed against pulmonary immune hyperactivation. Central to this dysregulation was the monocyte–macrophage lineage. Circulating monocytes exhibited an immunosuppressive phenotype, characterised by diminished cytokine production, reduced MHC II expression, and features resembling myeloid‐derived suppressor cells. These monocytes were recruited to the lungs, where they differentiated into monocyte‐derived alveolar macrophages (Mo‐AMs) with robust proinflammatory and profibrotic activities. Mo‐AMs drove cytokine storms and produced chemokines that amplified inflammatory cell recruitment and lung tissue remodelling. Additionally, peripheral T and NK cells exhibited increased cell death and active migration into the lungs, which may be the cause of lymphopenia.

Conclusions

Our study underscores the pivotal role of monocyte–macrophage dynamics in the immunopathogenesis of anti‐MDA5+‐associated RP‐ILD, offering critical insights into compartment‐specific immune dysregulation. These findings suggest potential therapeutic strategies targeting monocyte recruitment and macrophage activation to mitigate disease progression.

Key points

Peripheral immune suppression and pulmonary immune hyperactivation characterise the distinct immune landscapes in anti‐MDA5+DM with RP‐ILD.

Circulating monocytes transition from an immunosuppressive phenotype in the periphery to proinflammatory and profibrotic Mo‐AMs in the lungs.

Chemokines produced by Mo‐AMs drive monocyte and other immune cell recruitment to the lungs, amplifying pulmonary inflammation.
Cleaning Interactions Between Crows and Sika Deer: Implications for Tick‐Borne Disease Management
Authors: Tomita Kanzi M. , Matsuyama Hiroyuki
Published: February 2025

Cleaning interactions between mammals and birds have been widely observed worldwide. Here, we report cleaning interactions between sika deer and crows in Japan, based on a field observations using camera traps and online research. Online research was performed on social media platforms such as X (formerly Twitter), YouTube, and personal blogs. We finally collected 27 cases of cleaning associations between sika deer and crows. Crows associated with male more than female deer and mainly pecked their heads or necks, suggesting that crows remove Ixodid ticks from the deer's surface. Given that ticks on sika deer are vectors of several zoonotic pathogens such as Rickettsia and Borrelia spp., further studies should be conducted to examine the roles of crows as biocontrol agents of ticks and tick‐borne diseases.
Plant trait networks reveal the ecological strategies of Arabidopsis thaliana along ontogeny
Authors: Qian Hai‐rong , Tong Jin‐lian , Li Shu‐wen , Xie Jiang‐bo , Wang Zhong‐yuan , Li Yan , Lu Shi‐tong
Published: February 2025

Plant trait networks (PTNs) quantitatively describe the trait correlation patterns, which constrain the dynamic responses and individual fitness of plants under climate change. Despite renewed attention directed toward intraspecific trait correlation within trait‐based ecology in the last decade, thorough descriptions of how trait correlation patterns within species respond to changing environments ontogenetically and influence ecological strategies are still lacking. In this study, a controlled experiment was conducted on Arabidopsis thaliana wild‐type (Columbia), with three treatment groups (control/drought/heat) over three stages of the life cycle (vegetative/inflorescence/reproductive stage). Thirty traits (aboveground biomass and seed biomass were not used in trait correlation analyses) were obtained to investigate how trait correlation patterns in particular life stages (three T‐PTNs constructed based on trait variation across treatments within life stages) and during whole‐life cycles (three L‐PTNs constructed based on trait variation across life stages in particular treatments) respond to stress. The results showed that traits were correlated along an axis within life stages, reflecting an economic trade‐off between acquisitive strategies (in control plants) and conservative strategies (in drought/heat plants). With ontogeny, the higher sensitivity of central traits (highly connected with other plant traits in a network) in T‐PTNs to stress resulted in more significant separation among treatment groups along the axis. Second, based on life cycles, stress decoupled trait correlations in L‐PTNs and decreased the value of central traits (related to carbon assimilation/accumulation) compared with the ambient control, resulting in lower fitness. These results suggested that central traits in PTNs drove the shifts in ecological strategies across changing environments, and the network topology (the connection frequency or clustering degree among traits in a network, describing the correlation patterns) constrained the resource utilization efficiency in plants; both affect plant fitness collectively. These insights will facilitate more accurate and broader applications (e.g., the assessment of plant fitness or sensitivity to stress) of PTNs in trait‐based ecology.
Regio‐ and Stereo‐Selective Ring Opening of Cyclopropenes with Triflic Acid: en Route to Vinyl Triflates
Authors: Xin Shu‐Ya , Wang Qian , Wang Fei
Published: February 2025

Herein, we report a triflic acid‐mediated ring opening of cyclopropenes, affording vinyl triflates with high regio‐ and stereo‐selectivity. An intramolecular halogen transfer reactivity was also observed in this reaction, offering a tool to access the valuable vinyl chloride and bromide. The vinyl triflate products are applicable to palladium‐catalyzed cross coupling reactions, delivering various trisubstituted olefins and dienes with moderate yields.
A Multidimensional Regression Model for Predicting Recurrence in Chronic Low Back Pain
Authors: Huang Yilong , Li Chunli , Chen Jiaxin , Wang Zhongwei , Zhao Derong , Yang Lei , Zhang Zhenguang , Jiang Yuanming , Zhang Xiaolina , He Bo , Liu Zaiyi
Published: February 2025

Background

Recurrence is common in chronic low back pain (CLBP). However, predicting the recurrence risk remains a challenge. The aim is to develop and validate a machine learning tool to predict the recurrence risk in patients with CLBP by using multidimensional medical information.

Methods

This prospective cohort study consecutively enrolled 341 patients with CLBP from two hospitals between 1 January 2021 and 31 December 2021. Patients from both centres were used for model development and internal validation, employing multivariate logistic regression (MRL) along with three additional machine learning algorithms. The multidimensional model (MDM) was used to predict recurrence in the next 2 years and was compared with the widely used prognostic tool, the STarT BACK Tool (SBT). The models' performance in detecting recurrence was evaluated using several metrics, including the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC), decision curve analysis, accuracy, sensitivity and specificity.

Results

A total of 131 patients (38.42%) experienced recurrence. In the MRL model, factors linked to recurrence odds included progressive lower limb weakness, anxiety, mechanical pressure test, number of previous episodes, Oswestry disability index and multifidus proton density fat fraction. For recurrence prediction, the MRL‐MDM achieved an AUC of 0.813 (95% CI, 0.765–0.862), sensitivity of 85.2% and specificity of 70.2% in internal validation. In comparison, the SBT for recurrence had an AUC of 0.555 (95% CI, 0.518–0.592), sensitivity of 93.3% and specificity of 17.6%.

Conclusion

The MDM may predict recurrence in patients with CLBP over a 2‐year period, surpassing the performance of SBT.

Significance Statement

This study found that the STarT BACK tool is suboptimal in predicting the 2‐year recurrence of chronic low back pain (CLBP). Our proposed multidimensional machine learning model aids clinicians in identifying patients at high risk for future recurrence of CLBP and in implementing appropriate preventive measures. Given the considerable healthcare resource utilisation associated with the frequent recurrence of CLBP, our novel model provides significant assistance in addressing this issue, demonstrating substantial clinical relevance.
Modern Approaches to Protein Constructions: A Comprehensive Review of Computational Tools and Databases for De Novo Protein Design and Engineering
Authors: Mia Md. Mojnu , Sultana Habiba , Amin Md. Al , Hossain Md. Sakhawat , Imam Hasan , Mohiuddin A. K. M. , Mahmud Shahin
Published: February 2025

The field of protein engineering has witnessed transformative advancements, with computational tools and databases driving novel innovations in de novo protein design. This review consolidates and critiques a comprehensive range of modern computational resources, offering a unique focus on their applications across diverse domains, including protein stability prediction, posttranslational modification analysis, and mutation effect evaluation. Key contributions include a detailed examination of tools integrating machine learning and artificial intelligence to enhance predictive accuracy and streamline protein engineering workflows. By highlighting underexplored tools and novel methodologies, such as advanced protein–ligand interaction predictors and neural network–based stability assessment models, this study establishes itself as a unique reference for researchers aiming to develop tailored proteins for therapeutic, industrial, and biomedical applications.
A computational approach to analyze apple dehydration using hybrid active solar dryer
Authors: Chaturvedi Vedansh , Gaur Manoj Kumar
Published: February 2025

In the present research, the control parameters that is, bed area, water flow rate, and No. of air exchanges of Hybrid Active Solar Dryer integrated with Evacuated Tube Collector located at the solar energy laboratory of Madhav Institute of Technology and Science (MITS) Gwalior (M.P.) India, have been optimized. Moisture removal (mev), convective heat transfer coefficient (hc), evaporative heat transfer coefficient (he) and drying rate (Rd) have been taken as response parameters. Experiments have been conducted in different seasons according to Taguchi's L9 orthogonal array (OA). Response data has been analyzed independently and simultaneously. With the help of signal‐to‐noise (S/N) ratio, optimal parameter setting has been determined for good performance in different seasons. Entropy measuring techniques are used to determine the entropy weightage of each response. Gray relational analysis integrates several responses into a single one, that is, gray relational grade (GRG). The value of predicted S/N ratio for GRG as per optimal parameter setting is −0.04706 which is higher than the experimental S/N ratio which is −0.48614, indicating the successful implementation of this approach.
Thermal and acoustic properties of lime‐based sustainable insulation materials produced from hemp fibers modified with boron
Authors: Yıldız Ali , Yıldız Esra , Koçak Ahmet Burak
Published: February 2025

The importance of using natural materials in the construction field within the framework of sustainable and environmentally friendly approaches is increasing day by day. In this context, this study was aimed to develop a hemp fiber‐based insulating building material. The boron doped fibers were characterized by thermogravimetric and differential thermal analysis (DTA/TGA) and field emission environmental scanning electron microscopy (FE‐ESEM). The materials were produced by mixing undoped, 10% and 15% boric acid doped hemp fibers separately with lime. The fiber:binder ratio was determined as 1:4 by weight in all samples. To determine the thermal and acoustic properties of the produced samples; thermal conductivity test with heat flow plate method, sound absorption and sound transmission loss tests with impedance tube method were carried out. In order to determine the mechanical strength of the materials, a three‐point bending tests were performed. As a result of the analyses, the thermal conductivity coefficients of the samples produced using hemp fibers, which are undoped, doped with 10% and 15% boric acid solution, were determined as 0.0935, 0.1926, and 0.1863 W/mK, respectively; noise reduction coefficients (NRCs) were measured as 0.425, 0.443, and 0.385, respectively; the highest sound transmission loss values were recorded as 27.17, 33.50, and 46.92 dB, respectively; and the flexural strength (σf) values were determined as 1.922, 1.992, and 2.578 MPa, respectively.
Multi‐Objective Optimization of a Spherical Thermal Storage Tank Using a Student Psychology‐Based Approach
Authors: Wang Xi , Carriveau Rupp , Ting David S.‐K. , Brown David , McGillis Andrew
Published: February 2025

Energy storage technologies often store heat, with water as a preferred medium due to its availability and low cost. However, maintaining water in a liquid state at high temperatures requires large pressure vessels, posing significant design challenges. Balancing thermal storage capacity with pressure constraints is essential. This paper explores the dynamics of thermal storage water tanks, aiming to optimize their design using a multi‐criteria approach. An equilibrium thermodynamic model was developed to evaluate the impact of geometric structure and operating parameters. The results show that optimizing a single variable is insufficient to minimize pressure swing, reduce heat loss, and maximize storage capacity. To address these trade‐offs, a multi‐objective student psychology‐based optimization (SPBO) algorithm was employed for three‐objective optimization, outperforming particle swarm optimization (PSO) in convergence. The technique for order preference by similarity to ideal solution (TOPSIS) method was applied to the Pareto frontier, yielding ideal solutions using both data‐driven and manually weighted approaches. Compared with the initial design, the data‐driven weighted (entropy‐weighted and coefficient of variation methods) optimal designs improved all objectives, reducing pressure swing by 12.8% and 19.8%, respectively. A manually weighted approach reduced pressure swing by up to 86.7%, albeit with a decrease in thermal storage capacity.
Elastic Nanoparticle‐Reinforced, Conductive Structural Color Hydrogel With Super Stretchability, Self‐Adhesion, Self‐Healing as Electrical/Optical Dual‐Responsive Visual Electronic Skins
Authors: Xu Min , Liao Junlong , Li Jiajia , Shi Yu , Zhang Ziyu , Fu Yifu , Gu Zhongze , Xu Hua
Published: February 2025

Developing smart hydrogel with excellent physicochemical properties and multiple signal output capability for interactively electronic skin still remains challenging. Here, conductive structural color hydrogels with desirable physicochemical properties (including high stretchability and robustness, self‐adhesion and self‐healing) were developed to provide synchronous electronic and visual color signals for e‐skins. Highly charged elastic nanoparticles were elaborately used as building units for structural color and the hydrogel were prepared by the self‐assembly of the nanoparticle to form a non‐close‐packed array in a mixture comprised of acrylamide, silkworm silk fiber proteins (SF), reduced graphene oxide (rGO) and then photopolymerization. Benefiting from the improved interfacial compatibility between flexible hydrogel network and elastic nanoparticle, covalent cross‐linking network structure and synergistic multiple non‐covalent bonding interactions, the hydrogel exhibits extraordinary mechanical properties, excellent self‐adhesion to diverse substrates and self‐healing at room temperature. In addition, the hydrogel exhibited sensitive resistance changes and synchronous structural color changes under strain. As a proof‐to‐concept, the hydrogel displayed superior capability for the color‐response and the electrical signal response of various human motions, the spatial distribution of external mechanical stimuli as well as identification of different external stimuli, indicating promising applications in the fields of interactive visual electronic skin, wearable devices, and human–machine interfaces.
Contributions of Genetic Variation in Astrocytes to Cell and Molecular Mechanisms of Risk and Resilience to Late‐Onset Alzheimer's Disease
Authors: Lee Hyo , Pearse Richard V. , Lish Alexandra M. , Pan Cheryl , Augur Zachary M. , Terzioglu Gizem , Gaur Pallavi , Liao Meichen , Fujita Masashi , Tio Earvin S. , Duong Duc M. , Felsky Daniel , Seyfried Nicholas T. , Menon Vilas , Bennett David A. , De Jager Philip L. , Young‐Pearse Tracy L.
Published: February 2025

Reactive astrocytes are associated with Alzheimer's disease (AD), and several AD genetic risk variants are associated with genes highly expressed in astrocytes. However, the contribution of genetic risk within astrocytes to cellular processes relevant to the pathogenesis of AD remains ill‐defined. Here, we present a resource for studying AD genetic risk in astrocytes using a large collection of induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) lines from deeply phenotyped individuals with a range of neuropathological and cognitive outcomes. IPSC lines from 44 individuals were differentiated into astrocytes followed by unbiased molecular profiling using RNA sequencing and tandem mass tag‐mass spectrometry. We demonstrate the utility of this resource in examining gene‐ and pathway‐level associations with clinical and neuropathological traits, as well as in analyzing genetic risk and resilience factors through parallel analyses of iPSC‐astrocytes and brain tissue from the same individuals. Our analyses reveal that genes and pathways altered in iPSC‐derived astrocytes from individuals with AD are concordantly dysregulated in AD brain tissue. This includes increased levels of prefoldin proteins, extracellular matrix factors, COPI‐mediated trafficking components and reduced levels of proteins involved in cellular respiration and fatty acid oxidation. Additionally, iPSC‐derived astrocytes from individuals resilient to high AD neuropathology show elevated basal levels of interferon response proteins and increased secretion of interferon gamma. Correspondingly, higher polygenic risk scores for AD are associated with lower levels of interferon response proteins in astrocytes. This study establishes an experimental system that integrates genetic information with a matched iPSC lines and brain tissue data from a large cohort of individuals to identify genetic contributions to molecular pathways affecting AD risk and resilience.