bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
First Principles Global Optimization Method From Parallel Tempering Molecular Dynamics
Authors: Geudtner Gerald , Köster Andreas M.
Published: February 2025

Global optimization techniques are often based on a stochastic method to explore the potential energy surface of the investigated system. The here‐described global optimization is based on a temperature‐driven potential energy surface exploration via Parallel Tempering Born‐Oppenheimer Molecular Dynamics (PT‐BOMD) simulations. Additionally, structure selection from the lowest temperature PT‐BOMD trajectory for further optimization is performed with a scheme based on the Discrete Cosine Transformation (DCT). This step can be done automatically and therefore removes a human bias. The influence of parameters for the DCT and the length of the PT‐BOMD simulations is investigated with regard to their impact on the result of the global optimization.
The Impact of Radiation Dose on CT‐Based Body Composition Analysis: A Large‐Animal Study
Authors: Salhöfer Luca , Jost Gregor , Meetschen Mathias , van Landeghem Daniel , Forsting Michael , Bos Denise , Bojahr Christian , Hosch Rene , Nensa Felix , Pietsch Hubertus , Haubold Johannes
Published: February 2025

Background

CT‐based body composition analysis (BCA) enables the extraction of biomarkers from routine CT data. The influence of body composition on the prognosis of different patient groups has been highlighted in recent years. Typically, the segmentation of muscle and fat compartments is performed with a thresholding‐based subsegmentation, which might be influenced by the image noise as a function of radiation dose. This study was performed to investigate the impact of the radiation dose on a fully automated, volumetric CT‐based BCA.

Methods

In this animal study, 20 Göttingen minipigs were subjected to CT scans on six occasions under five different dose settings with gradations compared to the control given in % from volumetric CT dose index (CTDIvol) of the control (5%, 10%, 20%, 40%, control [10.01 mGy]). A database with full dose (FD) and quarter dose (QD) CT scans from The Cancer Imaging Archive served as a human validation cohort. A previously open‐source published and validated BCA network was applied to each scan. The following features were extracted as volumes (mL): bone, muscle, subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT), intermuscular and intramuscular adipose tissue (IMAT), visceral adipose tissue (VAT) and total adipose tissue (TAT). Statistical significance was assessed by a one‐way ANOVA with Tukey's multiple comparisons or Kruskal–Wallis with Dunn's post‐hoc tests. The correlation between feature volumes in the dose gradations and the control group was analysed using the Spearman or Pearson method.

Results

All BCA features remained consistent up to the 10% group and showed no significant differences compared with the control. In the lowest dose group (5%), there were significant differences concerning the muscle (5% = 1295 mL [211 mL], control = 1338 mL [248 mL]; p = 0.032) and VAT volumetry (5% = 353 mL [208 mL], control = 312 mL [204 mL]; p = 0.026) with median differences of −3.13% (muscle) and 12.3% (VAT), respectively. Significant and strong positive correlations were observed between all low‐dose groups and the control (r > 0.977, p < 0.001). The human validation analysis yielded constant volumes for every BCA feature with a strong positive correlation (r > 0.933, p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Fully automated BCA maintains consistent results in various low‐dose settings. Significant deviations are only observed after more than 90% dose reduction in the lowest dose settings (5%), which are currently not used in the clinical routine. This large‐animal study demonstrates the consistency of fully automated BCA in different dose settings and may therefore facilitate its integration into the clinical routine.
Cationic Lipid‐Assisted PEG‐b‐PLA Nanoparticles Achieve Long‐Lasting Targeted Delivery of Natural Hydrophobic Antioxidants
Authors: Dong Lu , Jiang Shuiqing , Lou Wenyong , Xu Congfei , Wang Juan
Published: February 2025

Natural hydrophobic antioxidants (e.g., β‐carotene and naringenin) are severely limited in their application due to their low solubility and high sensitivity properties. In this study, cationic lipid‐assisted nanoparticles loaded with β‐carotene (NP‐BC) and naringenin (NP‐NAR), respectively, were fabricated and characterized, and their digestive and metabolic behaviors were evaluated using static digestion models and in vivo imaging. The particle size and potential of cationic polymer nanoparticles changed during digestion but retained their structural integrity, which was conducive to targeted drug delivery to the liver and prolonged the in vivo circulation of the drug. It is noteworthy that whereas NP‐BC was more advantageous in lowering hepatic fat deposition, NP‐NAR successfully limited weight gain. This study proved that cationic polymer nanoparticles are promising carriers for transporting natural hydrophobic antioxidants and may be beneficial for improving nutrition absorption and targeted delivery to alleviate metabolic dysfunction‐associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) symptoms.
28 GHz Circular Polarized MIMO Antenna System With Polarization Diversity for Millimeter‐Wave Applications
Authors: Farahat Asmaa E. , Hussein Khalid. F. A. , Elsharkawy Rania R.
Published: February 2025

A four‐port dual circularly polarized (CP) MIMO antenna system is proposed for millimeter‐wave (mm‐wave) applications, especially 5G mobile communications. The MIMO antenna system is constructed from a compact‐size CP antenna designed at 28 GHz. The CP antenna has some defects in the ground plane that have the effect of increasing the operating bandwidth and improving the axial ratio. The antenna patch and the defected ground are symmetric about the 45° line to ensure good circular polarization. A microstrip line divided into three sections is used to feed the antenna. The feed line sections are used to match the input impedance to 50 Ω at 28 GHz. The design evolution is described starting with a square patch, which is modified through the design phases to reach the final radiating patch. Numerical simulations of the single‐element CP antenna are performed using the CST microwave studio simulator to ensure the antenna performance at 28 GHz regarding the circular polarization, impedance matching, and radiation pattern. MIMO system is constructed using four elements of the designed CP antenna. Two of the antennas produce right‐hand circular polarized waves, and the other two produce left‐hand circular polarized waves. The proposed MIMO configuration is appropriate to satisfy the polarization diversity scheme. A practical model for the single and MIMO antenna is fabricated and subjected to experimental verification through measurements. A good consent is found between the numerical results and the experimental measurements for both the single antenna and the MIMO system. The CP antenna in the proposed MIMO system has a return loss of less than and an axial ratio of less than . Finally, a comparison between the proposed CP antenna and MIMO system with similar designs found in the literature is performed.
The Importance of Strain on the Relative Energies of Bridgehead Radicals
Authors: Breton Gary W.
Published: February 2025

Bridgehead radicals are increasingly commonly‐encountered intermediates in organic chemistry. These carbon‐centered radicals, however, may experience unique strain energies due to pyramidalization at the bridgehead carbon as enforced by the bicyclic frameworks. In this study, a series of related bicyclic bridgehead radicals were analyzed using the G3MP2B3 computational protocol. The adamantyl and cubyl radicals were also included in the study. The energies of the radicals were analyzed with reference to the similarly‐substituted tert‐butyl radical via a hyperhomodesmotic equation. While the relative energies were found to weakly correlate with the change in pyramidalization at the bridgehead carbons upon radical formation, a much stronger correlation was observed with the difference in strain energies between the saturated bicyclic compounds and the corresponding bridgehead radicals.
Topological Ratio Transmission and Higher‐Order Topological States in Chiral Phononic Crystal by Breaking Spatial Inversion Symmetry
Authors: Xi Feng , Hu Li , Tang Yuxia , Jiang Chao
Published: February 2025

Topological insulators, introduced in classical wave systems, have opened a new avenue for exploring novel topologically protected transport phenomena. Although originally constrained by the lower dimensionality of modes compared to that of topological insulators, topological edge states and higher‐order topological (HOT) states provide topological protection to extend a range of dimensionalities. Herein, the topological protection propagation and the ratio transmission in the chiral phononic crystal (CPC) by breaking the spatial inversion symmetry are realized. Theoretically, the presence of the HOT states is demonstrated. The disparities in HOT states for the monophase and nested sample consisting of two types of CPCs are elucidated. The findings demonstrate that acoustic topological states possess rich physics and provide a flexible approach to designing desired topological structures.
Pulsed Laser Ablation in Liquid: Numerical Evaluation of Laser Fluence
Authors: Lo Pò Cristiano , Ruffino Francesco , Grimaldi Maria Grazia , Boscarino Stefano
Published: February 2025

Pulsed laser ablation in liquid is a very powerful technique that allows to synthesize colloidal solution of nanoparticles, starting from a target and a solvent, without waste. The performance of this process in terms of ablated mass per time depends on the laser fluence, the energy delivered per unit (or effective) area. Experimentally fluence evaluation is a tedious and indirect process, since the optical path passes through a lens and through an air–liquid interface, which is not easy to observe. In this work, a computational approach that provides the experimental parameters is developed, the laser ray paths inside the experimental apparatus are drawn, and the effective fluence on the target surface is evaluated. It aims to be an instrument to make predictions and help in the experimental setup tuning; moreover, the data obtained fit the theory developed for picosecond laser. The predictions can be extended to various real situations like a rotating fluid with a nonplane air–liquid surface.
Chiral Biomineral Structures: Synthesis and Inspiring Functional Materials
Authors: Shen Lixia , Dang Mingyan
Published: February 2025

Biominerals with complex hierarchical structures present important roles, such as defense, predation, or communication, which spurs the scientists to design biomimetic strategies and mimic this microstructure. This review mainly focuses on the synthesized strategies of chiral biominerals and the inspirations in the design of the functional materials. Additive‐assisted and template‐oriented strategies can control mineral growth through intermolecular interactions, which triggers the chirality transfer from the molecular level to the macroscopic scale. Gel‐based limited space reduces the solute diffusion rate and prompts the chiral morphology or helical structure evolution. These strategies play a synergetic role in the mineralization process. This growth process is commonly dominated by the nonclassical routes, and understanding this evolved mechanism is significant for the materials synthesis. The superior performance of the chiral minerals provides sufficient inspiration for materials manufacturing. The twisted layered structure design enhances the rigidity and toughness significantly, which provides a new sight in the hard materials preparation. Chirality arrangement displays the optical characteristic, which is expected to be applied in the sensing. Finally, further directions from mechanisms, and design to production are given.
"Bifunctional Strontium‐Iron Doped Neodymium Cobaltite: A Promising Electrocatalyst for Intermediate Temperature Solid Oxide Fuel Cells and CO2 Electrolyzer"
Authors: Ghosh Subhrajyoti , Kakati Biraj Kumar , Jhaa Gaurav , Dabodiya Tulsi Satyavir , Basu Suddhasatwa
Published: February 2025

A novel intermediate temperature solid oxide fuel cell cathode, Nd₀.₆₇Sr₀.₃₃Co₀.₈Fe₀.₂O₃‐δ (NSCF), synthesized via auto‐combustion, exhibits exceptional mixed ionic‐electronic conducting properties with a cubic perovskite structure. At 800 °C, NSCF demonstrates high electrical (1003 S cm−1) and ionic (1.676 × 10⁻2 S cm−1) conductivities, with activation energies of 0.0335 and 0.481 eV, respectively. Electronic analysis confirms its metallic nature, while the calculated oxygen migration energy (0.455 eV) correlates with experimental ionic conduction activation energy. The negative bulk oxygen vacancy formation energy (−38.70 kcal mol−1) indicates efficient oxygen reduction reaction and CO₂ electrolysis kinetics. Electrical conductivity relaxation shows non‐debye behavior, with Dchem of 5 × 10⁻⁴ cm2 s−1 and Kex of 6.450 × 10⁻⁴ cm −1s at 800 °C. NSCF exhibits low interfacial polarization resistance (0.05 Ω cm2) and area‐specific resistance (0.025 Ω cm2), further reducing to 0.014 Ω cm2 with an NSCF‐GDC Gadolinium doped ceria interlayer. An anode‐supported cell achieves peak power densities of 2.27, 1.52, and 0.86 W cm−2 at 800, 750, and 700 °C, respectively. In SOEC mode, NSCF demonstrates excellent CO₂ reduction capability of constant current density of −1.1 A cm−2 with stable 55‐h performance, which establishes its potential both as IT‐SOFC cathode and CO2 electrolysis catalysts.
Advancements in Chemical Vapor Deposited Carbon Films for Secondary Battery Applications
Authors: Kim Jiwoo , Cho Young‐Wook , Woo Sang‐Gil , Lee Je‐Nam , Lee Gwan‐Hyoung
Published: February 2025

Carbon films, synthesized via chemical vapor deposition (CVD), have gained significant attention in secondary battery applications, where stability and capacity are required to be improved for next‐generation electronic devices and electric vehicles. Beyond the inherent properties of carbon films, such as high electrical conductivity, mechanical strength, chemical stability, and flexibility, the CVD method provides a high degree of freedom in designing the carbon films in battery applications, enabling conformal coating with structure engineering for modification of its electrical and mechanical properties. In this review, the CVD‐grown carbon films are highlighted in the secondary battery applications, enabling them to overcome critical issues, such as volume expansion, sluggish kinetics, and unstable interfaces. To deeply understand the CVD‐grown carbon films, such as graphene and amorphous carbon, a comprehensive overview of the CVD process is also provided, focusing on growth mechanisms, control of 3D morphology, and doping techniques. In addition, a broad range of applications are introduced for carbon films in battery components, including their use in cathodes, anodes, and current collectors, as well as their potential in advanced battery systems, such as lithium‐sulfur and all‐solid‐state batteries. This review proposes future directions for optimizing carbon films to achieve practical applications in next‐generation energy storage devices.
An Ultrasmall Self‐Assembled Gallic‐Acid‐Based Natural Multifunctional Defense Networks for Therapeutic Application in Calcium Oxalate Nephropathies
Authors: Zhang Quan , Yu Bang‐Xian , Long Jun , Chen Xue‐Wu , Huang Fang , Wu Wen‐Qi , Liu Yong‐Da , Zeng Guo‐Hua , Huang Ling‐Hong , Sun Xin‐Yuan
Published: February 2025

Kidney stones, which have high prevalence and recurrence rates, often cause severe oxidative damage and inflammation. The ultrasmall hydrodynamic diameter of nanoparticles is crucial for their enrichment in the kidneys to exert biological activity. However, integrating crystallization inhibition and therapeutic functions into a single ultrasmall nanoparticle is challenging. A novel ultrasmall iron (Fe)–gallic acid (Ga) metal–phenolic networks (Fe–Ga MPNs) is developed for treating calcium oxalate (CaOx) nephropathies. These MPNs can specifically adsorb on the high‐energy () crystal face to inhibit the growth of CaOx monohydrate (COM), promoting the phase transition from highly toxic COM to low‐risk CaOx dihydrate. Fe–Ga MPNs have broad‐spectrum free radical scavenging abilities, reducing oxidative damage and inhibiting cell apoptosis. They exhibit sensitivity toward kidney damage, accumulating in injured renal tissue, reducing tubule injury and inflammation, improving tubule function, and inhibiting crystal formation. Fe–Ga MPNs also inhibit pro‐inflammatory macrophage polarization and upregulate anti‐inflammatory and highly phagocytic macrophage polarization. RNA sequencing analysis shows that Fe–Ga MPNs induce transcriptomic changes mainly involving immune regulation and citrate homeostasis pathways. In conclusion, the multifunctional nanonetwork Fe–Ga MPNs, with crystallization inhibition, antioxidant, and immune regulation properties, show great potential in treating CaOx nephropathies.
Early‐age behavior of fiber‐reinforced self‐compacting concrete in high strain rate
Authors: Ranjithkumar S. , Muthuraja M. , Khaderi S. N. , Suriya Prakash S.
Published: February 2025

This research investigates the early‐age behavior of fiber‐reinforced self‐compacting concrete under high strain rates and static loading conditions. Concrete made with steel fibers with volume fractions of 0%, 0.5%, and 1% is tested at three strain rates at different ages (28, 14, 7, 3, and 1 day) using a split‐Hopkinson pressure bar test setup. In all three strain rates, fibers did not influence the strength up to 3 days of age. At higher ages, the strength significantly improved at all strain rates. The modulus of elasticity was decreased with the increase in fiber dosage at all ages. However, increasing fiber dosage increases energy absorption at all ages due to crack arresting and improved ductility. The energy absorption increased marginally for specimens with 0.5% and 1% dosage. Test results of elastic modulus, energy absorption, and strain rate sensitivity at different ages show that the impact application requires a minimum steel fiber volume fraction of 0.5%.
Demographic analysis of behavioral reactions of African bush elephants to a synthetic honey bee alarm pheromone blend
Authors: Wright Mark G. , Au Michelle G. , Gatti Irene , Salehi Juliana , Spencer Craig R. , Allin Paul , Mafra-Neto Agenor
Published: February 2025

Human–elephant conflict situations continue to be a growing conservation issue. Conflict situations typically arise as the result of elephants traversing places with infrastructure where they become disruptive to human activities. Developing passive options for managing elephant movement and reducing human–elephant conflict situations is a conservation priority. In this paper, we report elephant responses to a synthetic honey bee alarm pheromone blend, and the relationship between strength and frequency of deterrence responses from elephants. We show that a blend of isoamyl acetate, 2‐heptanol, and 2‐nonanol, volatile chemicals known to stimulate honey bee vigilance, defence, and mass attack, produced stronger repellence than isoamyl acetate alone, or blended with 2‐heptanol. Subadult elephants, irrespective of sex, were the demographic group most likely to show deterrence responses to the alarm blends. In some cases, entire herds of elephants were repelled from alarm pheromone treatments placed at waterholes, suggesting that the method has potential for manipulation of elephant movements on a landscape. Integration of synthetic honey bee alarm pheromones with other elephant behavioral management tools is discussed.
Gene expression studies of malting induced germination of barley seeds in response to Alternaria alternata infection
Authors: Bretträger Marina , Franz Veronika , Sacher Bertram , Gastl Martina , Becker Thomas
Published: February 2025

Barley infection with Alternaria alternata (A. alternata) can impair malting quality and lead to considerable yield losses. Despite the widespread prevalence and significance of A. alternata as a plant pathogen, the intricacies of its impact on malting barley remain insufficiently explored. This study aims to improve our understanding of how malting barley responds to biotic stress conditions induced by A. alternata infection during the malting process and how this impacts the phenotypic quality characteristics of barley malt. Barley grains artificially infected with A. alternata were malted according to the standardized malting procedure, and samples were taken at 11 time points during the malting process. Gene expression analysis using quantitative real-time PCR demonstrated pathogen-induced alterations in the expression of malting- and stress-related genes, with the strongest differences observed within a short time after infection, during the first wet steeping, and within the first 24 h of the malting process. Standard malt quality parameters showed an impact on the phenotypic quality parameters viscosity (-8.86%), wort color (+ 25.31%), free amino nitrogen (FAN) (+ 11.90%), and β-glucan (-76.32%). A. alternata behaviour during malting was quantified using qPCR, indicating that fungal growth was favored during the aeration and germination phases. Especially in the germination phase, there was a considerable 3.5-fold increase in fungal biomass. These findings contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of A. alternata and its role in malting and emphasizes the importance of disease management and recommendations for processing affected batches to maintain high malt quality.
Barriers and enablers to exercise prehabilitation before breast cancer surgery in an Australian regional health service: patient and clinician perspective
Authors: Chiu April , Huntly Sarah , McPhee Breanna , Branson Molly , Wallen Matthew , Hennessy Declan
Published: February 2025

Purpose

To identify barriers and enablers of an exercise-based prehabilitation service for surgical patients with breast cancer and medical professionals in a regional healthcare setting.

Methods

A cross-sectional survey was distributed to patients with breast cancer and medical professionals from regional populations. Surveys included closed and open-ended responses. A chi-square goodness of fit test with a Fisher’s exact correction was used for quantitative analysis of the frequencies of barriers and enablers within groups. Content analysis was used for open-ended responses.

Results

Twenty-five patients and 14 clinicians participated. Patients identified psychological barriers as the lowest concern to exercise prehabilitation (χ
2(9, n = 23) = 21.78, p = .011). No other patient barriers were statistically significant. Fifty-nine percent of patients expressed interest in participation in exercise prehabilitation, with 40% citing personal fitness benefits as the leading enabler. Clinicians identified time constraints as a barrier (χ
2(2, n = 13) = 8.00, p < .05), with challenges integrating prehabilitation into pre-surgery timelines. Clinicians indicated electronic referral methods and information would be enablers for prehabilitation.

Conclusion

The study underpins the need for integrating exercise professionals into preoperative teams to address exercise prehabilitation within limited time frames. Patients do not describe psychological barriers and instead report motivation to improve fitness as an enabler of prehabilitation. Clinicians report time constraints in pre-operative appointments as a barrier to prehabilitation. Implementing electronic referral methods alongside traditional approaches may enhance prehabilitation delivery for patients receiving breast cancer surgery. Future research should leverage these findings for prehabilitation referral and program design.
Heterogeneous bilayer system of cellulose nanofibers for a moisture-enabled electric generator
Authors: Thakur Deepika , Youn Hye Jung , Hyun Jinho
Published: February 2025

This paper describes the fabrication of a bilayer system as a spontaneous power generator using an abundant natural bioresource known as cellulose nanofibers (CNFs). Although CNFs are naturally attracted to atmospheric moisture, surface functionalization is needed to generate sufficient electricity through dissociation and diffusion of oppositely charged ions. We used a heterogeneous bilayer film system based on CNFs that were chemically modified with carboxylate and quaternary ammonium functional groups to assemble a moisture-enabled electric generator (MEG) by inducing a heterogeneous distribution of mobile ions. The MEG bilayer consists of functionalized CNFs with optimum thickness and area, which enables ion dissociation and diffusion through a continuous ion-concentration gradient even at a high relative humidity (> 95%). The streaming potential and ion gradient acting on the bilayer enhance the output performance of the MEG. The thickness of the bilayer film, along with temporal variations, also influences device performance. A single unit can spontaneously produce approximately 0.7 V and 0.8 µA of output voltage and current, respectively, without the need for an external power source. When 20 MEG units are combined, they can produce up to 9.6 V of output voltage and can supply continuous energy for several hours at a power density of 7.4 µW/cm2 by storing power in capacitors. This study provides a better understanding of high-performance cellulose-based MEGs for self-powered devices.
Crafting Cities Together: Co-located Collaboration with Augmented Reality for Urban Design
Authors: Paraschivoiu Irina , Steiner Robert , Wieser Judith , Meschtscherjakov Alexander
Published: February 2025

Augmented reality revolutionizes the way individuals interact with urban environments, fostering novel collaborative modalities in public space design. Our study introduces 'City Craft', an augmented reality application which empowers users to create and modify urban layouts by selecting, positioning, and editing 3D models collaboratively. We detail the deployment of City Craft in two field studies with 33 participants, where the application was used in public space. Results indicate that when participants were paired on a single device, collaboration was synchronous and involved shared control, whereas larger groups engaged more asynchronously. The consensus among participants is that City Craft invites a new perspective on public space, fosters creativity and a collaborative mindset. We argue in situ use of AR tools such as City Craft increases interest in participating in urban design and can aggregate different views on public space use, which can be further refined collectively. However, City Craft should be complemented with a mix of digital and analog tools across the different stages of the design process.
Can a Short-Term Intervention Promote Growth Among Parents of Children with ASD?
Authors: Baransi Nagham , Scharf Miri
Published: February 2025

The present study investigated the effects of a short-term synergic growth mindset intervention towards abilities and towards stress on reducing parental stress and promoting stress-related growth (SRG) among Arab parents of children diagnosed with Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD). One hundred and seven parents (70 mothers, 37 fathers) of male children with ASD, completed several questionnaires, including a demographic questionnaire; the Childhood Autism Rating Scale, the Parenting Stress Index-Short Form, the revised Stress- Related Growth Scale, The Implicit Self-Theories Scale, and the Stress Mindset Scale. Seventy- two parents were randomly assigned to an “intervention group”, and 35 to a comparison group. Members of the intervention group participated in a short synergic growth mindset intervention, created especially for this research. Six months after the intervention, all participants re-completed the same questionnaires. The intervention significantly increased growth mindset and SRG and decreased parental stress. This study demonstrates the effectiveness of a short-term intervention in promoting growth mindsets, reducing parental stress, and fostering SRG among parents of children with a chronic disorder. These findings are particularly important since many parents of children with chronic disorders often exhibit fixed mindset patterns due to their children’s slow progress in various developmental domains.
Biological activities of hydroxyanthracene derivatives (HADs) from Aloe species and their potential uses
Authors: Merino Juan J. , Durán Alexandra G. , Chinchilla Nuria , Macías Francisco A.
Published: February 2025

Hydroxyanthracene derivatives (HADs) are a class of naturally occurring organic compounds known for their diverse biological activities and applications. Due to their pharmacological versatility, hydroxyanthracene derivatives represent a major area of interest in natural products research and drug development. They are found in a wide variety of organisms including bacteria, fungi, plants and some animals. One of the most important sources of HADs is the plant Aloe vera, which is particularly rich in these compounds. HADs can be divided into several types based on their chemical structure and the presence of functional groups: anthraquinones, anthrones, anthranols, anthracenols and dianthrones, with anthraquinones being the most abundant. Plants are a particularly rich source, with around 200 known anthraquinones found in roots, rhizomes, flowers and fruits. These compounds are known for their diverse biological activities, including anticancer, anti-inflammatory, diuretic, antiarthritic, antifungal, antibacterial and antimalarial properties. Some anthraquinones are already in clinical use and commercially available. In addition to their medicinal applications, these molecules are valuable in analytical chemistry and industrial processes such as cellulose production, and serve as dyes, agrochemicals and prototypes for the development of new bioactive molecules. Various techniques are used to extract anthraquinones from natural sources to maximize yield and preserve the integrity of the compounds. Common methods include maceration, soxhlet extraction, supercritical fluid extraction, green processes and ultrasound-assisted extraction. This chapter focuses on the key properties and applications of anthraquinone from Aloe vera. Through a comprehensive review of these aspects, this chapter aims to provide a thorough understanding of the potential of anthraquinones and their diverse roles in both natural and applied sciences.
V-Static Metrics and the Volume-Renormalised Mass
Authors: McCormick Stephen
Published: February 2025

V-static metrics generalise the notion of static metrics, and stem from the work of Miao and Tam (Calc Var Partial Differ Equ 36(2):141–171, 2009), and Corvino, Eichmair, and Miao (Math Ann 357(2):551–584, 2013) on critical points of the volume functional over the space of compact manifolds with constant scalar curvature. In this article we show that these V-static metrics arise naturally in the context of asymptotically hyperbolic manifolds as critical points of the volume-renormalised mass, recently introduced by Dahl, Kröncke, and McCormick (A volume-renormalized mass for asymptotically hyperbolic manifolds. arXiv preprint arXiv:2307.06196, 2023). In particular, we show that critical points of the volume-renormalised mass over the space of constant scalar curvature asymptotically hyperbolic manifolds without boundary, or satisfying appropriate boundary conditions, are exactly V-static metrics. This is directly analogous to the relationship between critical points of the ADM mass and static metrics for asymptotically flat manifolds.
Long-term clinical outcome and exercise capacity in SARS-CoV-2-positive elite athletes
Authors: Diebold Katharina , Zacher Jonas , Baum Klaus , Reuter Hannes , Schneeweis Christopher , Schramm Thomas , Schifferdecker Inga , Vassiliadis Argiris , Predel Hans-Georg
Published: February 2025

Aims

This study aimed to explore the epidemiological circumstances, long-term clinical outcomes, and perceived impact of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection on elite athletes’ sports performance. A secondary objective was to determine the sports-specific (contact vs. noncontact) prevalence of SARS-CoV‑2 among 65 SARS-CoV-2-positive athletes from the Olympic Training Center Rhineland (OSP; n = 599).

Methods

In all, 65 SARS-CoV-2-positive athletes from the German Olympic Training Center (OSP; 66% males—age: 23 ± 4 years; 34% females—age: 23 ± 5 years) participated in the panel study. Data collection occurred between June 2020 and October 2021 at two test times (t0: after a negative polymerase chain reaction [PCR] test, t1: 16 weeks after t0) through questionnaires and clinical assessments.

Results

The SARS-CoV‑2 prevalence was nearly identical in noncontact and contact-sport athletes (10.8% vs. 11.3%); 37% experienced symptoms lasting > 4 weeks. Over 50% of athletes paused their training for 4–8 weeks. At t1, 40% still experienced reduced perceived performance capacity (PPC) compared to their pre-COVID-19 level, while 64% reported ongoing limitations in sports participation, with mental and physical fatigue as the most prominent limiting factor, followed by shortness of breath and joint and muscle pain.

Conclusion

The long-term management of SARS-CoV-2-positive elite athletes should involve a comprehensive, multidimensional psychophysiological approach to address persistent sport-restricting symptoms. This approach will assist in developing tailored training protocols that allow a gradual increase in intensity and volume.
Modelling cybersecurity strategies with game theory and cyber kill chain
Authors: Kour Ravdeep , Karim Ramin , Dersin Pierre
Published: February 2025

Digitalisation within industries has many positive opportunities but poses many cybersecurity-related threats. Cybersecurity is a critical concern for many industries, such as railway, aviation, mining, construction, healthcare, and finance, where vital information and operational security are at risk of being compromised. Today, researchers are looking into various solutions to tackle cybersecurity risks while still retaining the desired functionality of the system. However, it is believed that these challenges can be approached by integrating game theory and the cyber kill chain (CKC), which describes the different stages of a cyberattack, to understand the complexities of cybersecurity. Thus, the primary objective of this paper is to demonstrate the application of a strategic game model within the context of cybersecurity, specifically using the cyber kill chain (CKC) model. The focus is on validating the proposed strategic game model through a case study. The case study involves a scenario where defenders select strategies such as “monitor system,” “detecting system,” and “respond to attack,” while attackers choose various attack strategies like “monitoring attack,” “scan the organization's website,” and “develop malicious payloads” within the stages of the CKC. This approach aims to enhance understanding of the complex challenges and facilitate the development of effective cybersecurity solutions. This approach will help in evaluating the effectiveness of different security strategies. The proposed strategic approach uses a non-cooperative game based on mixed strategies. The authors have defined a scenario for simultaneous-move games by estimating values for various elements of the game. By analysing the behaviour of both attacker and defender, the proposed game-based model can help industries develop more effective and efficient security strategies. Further, the proposed model will provide a better understanding of the complex challenges of cybersecurity in industrial contexts. It can also be used to develop appropriate strategies to mitigate cybersecurity risks.
The potential of Large Language Models for social robots in special education
Authors: Voultsiou Evdokia , Vrochidou Eleni , Moussiades Lefteris , Papakostas George A.
Published: February 2025

Large language models (LLMs) have created remarkable possibilities for analyzing and generating language data and have been integrated into several fields aiming to transform them, including education. While most research efforts focus on LLMs in typical education or social robots, limited applications of LLMs have been reported in special education. Moreover, there is a profound lack of combined research in LLM-based social robots in special education. In this work, we argue that although LLMs and social robots have demonstrated their potential to advance special education separately, their combination is not yet fully exploited, and further research is required to enable such use. The first objective of this work is to review relevant literature to assess the feasibility of developing LLMs on social robot platforms for use in special education. The second objective of this work is to reveal related challenges, limitations, opportunities, and ethical considerations to provide insights, aiming to subsequently formulate guidelines for the efficient integration of LLM-based social robots into special education practices. To this end, the third objective of this work is to propose a thoughtful framework, aiming to formulate a safe and inclusive learning environment for students in special education, suggesting actionable steps that could be followed by educators, developers and stakeholders, towards address the unique needs and challenges of students with diverse learning requirements.
What if there was a year 7–10 outdoor education curriculum in Victoria, Australia?
Authors: Ambrosy Josh , Quay John , Morse Marcus , Cox Matthew , Allen-Craig Sandy
Published: February 2025

There has been significant and sustained advocacy for a Year 7–10 Outdoor Education curriculum in Victoria and Australia for over forty years. Beginning in 2018, this prompted the formation of the Outdoor Education in the Victorian Curriculum (OEVC) project team, involving representatives from state-based professional associations: Outdoors Victoria, the Victorian branch of ACHPER (Australian Council for Health, Physical Education and Recreation), the Residential Outdoor Schools Association (ROSA), and Victorian universities with interests in Outdoor Education. The OEVC project has been formalised in recent years to focus on this vital work, consulting with teachers, administrators and academics in the drafting of a specific Year 7–10 Outdoor Education curriculum. To ascertain the perceived impact and appropriateness of a Year 7–10 Outdoor Education curriculum, teachers’ insights were solicited via an online survey, administered via statewide conferences of OE teachers convened separately by Outdoors Victoria, ACHPER Victoria, and ROSA. In this paper, we share the process surrounding the drafting of this Outdoor Education curriculum and the findings of the teacher survey. These findings suggest a Year 7–10 Outdoor Education curriculum in Victoria be seriously considered because it would support teachers and students who are already studying in this area in Years 7–10. Further, we suggest a possible solution might be to offer it as an option within the Health and Physical Education learning area in the Victorian Curriculum.
Roots of Resilience: Unraveling Yacouba Sawadogo’s Afrocentric Ecological Wisdom through Qualitative Inquiry
Authors: Sané Barwendé Médard
Published: February 2025

Through a personal mentoring relationship with Yacouba Sawadogo, the author analyzes his narrative, highlighting the roots of the climate crisis in the disconnection between humans and nature. The catastrophe epitomizes the visible manifestation of the invisible decay of “the interconnected relationships within creation (Zamane).” The author demonstrates how the Champion of the Earth advocates for a shift in mindset towards Mother Earth. Their qualitative inquiry includes interviews and narratives, examining Sawadogo’s Afrocentric ecological wisdom. In smelling his smell, the focus is on his resilience to provide a comprehension of individual ingenuity and community support, which are valuable for sustainable practices.
Uneven progress: Analyzing the factors behind digital technology adoption rates in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA)
Authors: Astuti Hanim Maria , Ayinde Lateef Adeshina
Published: February 2025

Even though Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) is lagging in digital technology adoption among the global average, there is substantial progress in terms of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) access and use, where it plays a crucial role in increasing the quality of life in the regions. However, digital gaps still exist within the continents, even though technology adoption across African nations has shown an increase in progress. This paper aims to explore factors that contribute to different adoption rates among three digital technologies in SSA, specifically mobile phones, fixed broadband, and fixed telephones. The methodology utilizes panel regression analysis to examine data sourced from the World Bank, which consists of 48 SSA countries from 2006 to 2022. The findings show a consistent growth in mobile phone subscriptions, different from fixed telephone and broadband internet that shows stagnant progress. Furthermore, infrastructure, and human capital are the most significant factors in addition to other influencing factors. The results of this study provide the African governments with insightful advice on addressing the digital divide and accelerating their digital transformation.
The Effects of Cultural Factors on Food Assistance After Disaster: A Scoping Review
Authors: Koçak Hüseyin , Karakuş Esma , Çalışkan Cüneyt , Dağ Nihal , Kınık Kerem , Güzel Aysun
Published: February 2025

Objective

The objective of this scoping review is to identify the cultural factors that influence the acceptance of food aid by those affected by disasters.

Methods

A literature review was conducted on articles published in Web of Science, Scopus, PubMed, Cochrane, and ScienceDirect databases until March 30, 2023, using keywords determined within the scope of the subject. This study follows the PICOS (participation, intervention, comparison, outcomes, study desings) and Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR). Twelve articles that met the inclusion criteria were included in the findings.

Results

The study comprised 12 articles, of which 3 were cross-sectional, 5 were qualitative, 1 was descriptive, and 3 were mixed method studies. Thematic analysis identified 7 themes that emerged from the cultural factors/codes affecting nutrition activities in disasters: local and traditional food, socio-economic status, faith/religion, traditional practices and habits, cultural food beliefs and taboos, food sharing, and social organization.

Conclusions

A considerable body of research indicates that the selection of local and traditional foods is a key cultural factor influencing the efficacy of nutrition interventions and food assistance programs in the aftermath of disasters. It is therefore essential to take into account the identified cultural factors in order to ensure that the nutrition intervention is both accurate and efficient, and to enhance the acceptance of the population.
Cross-variable amplitude-frequency coupling during intermittency in a turbulent thermoacoustic system
Authors: Tandon Shruti , Balaji Aswin , Radhakrishnan Rohit , Raghunathan Manikandan , Chopra Gaurav , Sujith R.I.
Published: February 2025

We investigate flame–acoustic interactions in a turbulent combustor during the state of intermittency before the onset of thermoacoustic instability using complex networks. Experiments are performed in a turbulent bluff-body stabilised dump combustor where the inlet airflow rate is varied quasi-statically and continuously. We construct a natural visibility graph from the local heat release rate fluctuations (

$\dot {q}'$

) at each location. Comparing the average degree during epochs of high- and low-amplitude acoustic pressure oscillations (

$p'$

) during the state of intermittency, we detect frequency modulation in

$\dot {q}'$

. Through this approach, we discover unique spatial patterns of cross-variable coupling between the frequency of

$\dot {q}'$

and the amplitude of

$p'$

. The frequency of

$\dot {q}'$

increases in regions of flame anchoring owing to high-frequency excitation of the flow and flame during epochs of high-amplitude

$p'$

dynamics. However, the frequency of

$\dot {q}'$

decreases in regions associated with flame-front distortions by large coherent vortices. In experiments with continuously varying airflow rates, the spatial pattern of frequency modulation varies with an increase in the average amplitude of

$p'$

owing to an increase in the epochs of periodic

$p'$

dynamics and the size of vortices forming in the flow. Dynamic shifts in the location of flame anchoring induce low-frequency fluctuations in

$\dot {q}'$

during very-high-amplitude intermittent

$p'$

dynamics. Our approach using conditional natural visibility graphs thus reveals the spatial pattern of amplitude-frequency coupling between the co-evolving flame and the acoustic field dynamics in turbulent reacting flows.
Diet, Glutathione S-Transferases M1 and T1 Gene Polymorphisms and Cancer Risk: A Systematic Review of Observational Studies
Authors: Karimi Elham , Abbasnezhad Shalaleh , Zeraattalab-Motlagh Sheida , Amiri Khosroshahi Reza , Beh-Afarin Seyed Reza , Mohammadi Hamed , Yaghmaie Marjan
Published: February 2025

Understanding the correlation between genes and diet holds significance in formulating tailored nutritional guidance and enhancing public health initiatives. Consequently, a thorough examination is undertaken to clarify the interplay between varying nutrient intake, Glutathione S-transferases Mu1 and Theta 1 (GSTM1 & T1) gene variants, and susceptibility to cancer development. In this study, we conducted a comprehensive search on MEDLINE/PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases up to April 30, 2023. The review included observational studies that explored the relationship between dietary consumption of acrylamide, fruits, vegetables, plant-based foods, total meat, red meat, coffee, and green tea, as well as the presence of GSTM1 and T1 gene polymorphisms, and the risk of cancer in adult populations. The review findings indicated that high levels of risk factors, particularly red meat, have been linked to a higher chance of developing colorectal cancer risk among individuals with the GSTM1 null genotype. In contrast, heightened levels of protective factors, such as cruciferous vegetables, green tea, coffee, and fruit, have been associated with a decreased risk of lung cancer, adult leukemia, cutaneous melanoma, and lung cancer in individuals exhibiting GST polymorphisms. There is a scarcity of comprehensive studies examining different types of cancer due to various dietary patterns and genetic variations. Research has illuminated the complex interplay among dietary factors, gene polymorphisms, and cancer risk, further comprehensive studies are needed to understand and validate these findings fully. More robust investigations across diverse populations are crucial to developing personalized nutritional interventions and strengthening public health strategies.