bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigation of silica crystallization kinetics in rice husk ash for sustainable construction materials
Authors: Abbas Muhammad Aun , Hoe Kwan Wai , Bin Samsudin Muhammad Hasnolhadi
Published: January 2025

Concrete is one of the most widely used materials in the world, and its utilization is rising drastically with the increasing population. Around 5-8% of global carbon emissions are caused by cement production. On the other hand, approximately 160 million tons of rice husk, considered agrowaste, turn into ash annually. Rice husk ash (RHA) is particularly attractive due to its high silica content and great potential to be used as a cementitious material. However, impurities such as alkali metal oxides and uncontrolled combustion reduce the quality of silica and promote its crystallization. Numerous studies have focused on obtaining active silica through acid leaching to remove impurities, but the study on the reaction kinetics of functionalized rice husk ash is very limited. In this research, 0.1M hydrochloric acid (HCl) was used to leach rice husk at temperatures of 50°C, 60°C, and 70°C for 1.5 hours. The rice husk was then burned at 800°C for 2 hours. Subsequently, the ash was examined using various analytical and computational techniques to develop an in-depth understanding of the burning process, aimed at producing functionalized amorphous silica for sustainable construction. It was observed that 99.39% silica with 95.04% amorphous content was formed by treating rice husk with 0.1M HCl at 70°C for 1.5 hours, followed by combustion at 800°C for 2 hours. Furthermore, reaction kinetics parameters were identified using the Coats-Redfern kinetic model for the two different reaction zones of the burning process.
Evaluation of the efficacy of papaya seed-based natural adsorbent for synthetic textile wastewater treatment
Authors: Bhattacharya Debleena , Lodariya Mital , Addis Ermias , Arunachalam Kantha D. , Mayani Suranjana V. , Nikam Rahul J.
Published: January 2025

This study explored the application of papaya seed-based activated carbon for removing methylene blue dye from synthetic textile effluent. Batch experiments are used in the study to investigate the adsorption potential of activated carbon. The results demonstrate that papaya seeds derived from activated carbon have the greatest potential for methylene blue adsorption, with an average removal effectiveness of 89.4%. The effects of several parameters such as pH, contact time, adsorbent dose, adsorbent-adsorbate temperature, and starting dye amount or concentration were examined to optimize the adsorption conditions. Maximum dye removal was achieved after 60 minutes of contact time at pH 6.5. The carbon dosage and pH of the solution were discovered to have the greatest influence on the adsorption process. Based on the experimental data, the Langmuir and Freundlich models were identified as the most appropriate fits for the adsorption investigation. In conclusion, activated carbon derived from papaya seeds is a viable and natural bio-adsorbent for removing methylene blue from synthetic textile wastewater.
Utilization of fishery wastewater as a fertilizer and its impact on the growth performance of Spinacia oleracea (Spinach)
Authors: Makwana Hina , Soni Mital R. , Sharma Archana , Mwape Joseph , Pipaliya Mayurkumar B.
Published: January 2025

Aquaculture produces fishery wastewater (FWW), has polluted the environment and negatively impact the aquatic life. Utilizing FWW as a nutrient will promote sustainable agriculture and offer alternatives to conventional fertilizers. Some of the techniques used in water treatment, mainly the elimination of contaminants includes the use of screening, equalization tanks, aeration tanks, and sludge settling tanks before the treated water is released back to the environment or to be reused as a fertilizer. To evaluate the effects of the different FWW concentrations on the growth of spinach, the present study was carried out for 3.5 months using a complete randomized design with six groups of pot treatments that gave rise to 18 experimental units. Parameters such as height of plant, length of the root, number of leaves, fresh weight and the dry weight measurements were recorded. According to the experiments the pots which were treated with 20 ml FWW showed the best growth performance measures where shoot length was increased by 30% and root length by 60% compared to the control implying the prospect of the wastewater as a source of nutrients for agriculture. This research has implications toward the development of sustainable practices for both aquaculture and agriculture, in terms of reduction of global warming and climate change.
An evaluation of artificial floating littoral zones to support fish communities in reservoirs
Authors: Salmon Quentin , Westrelin Samuel , Dublon Julien , Fonbonne Sebastien , Baudoin Jean-Marc
Published: January 2025

Artificial water level fluctuations (WLF) in reservoirs impact fish communities by degrading littoral habitats. To mitigate these negative effects, artificial floating islands that mimic natural littoral zones appear as a promising mitigation tool. However, their effectiveness in supporting fish communities remains poorly documented. In this study, three artificial floating littoral zones (FLOLIZ, 70 m2 surface area) were installed in a French hydropower reservoir subject to extreme WLF. Fish communities were assessed in spring and summer over four years in FLOLIZ and in control littoral stations during daytime and nighttime. Fish, especially juveniles, did not appear more frequently in FLOLIZ than in control littoral stations during daytime. At night, both adult and juvenile fish were more abundant in the littoral zone of the reservoir. During the day, the fish community in FLOLIZ was mainly composed of juvenile Chondrostoma toxostoma and adult Perca fluviatilis. Differences occurred only for a few species and life stages (juvenile vs adult); however, in general, results indicated greater abundance or richness in control littoral stations. These results do not support the effectiveness of FLOLIZ in mitigating deleterious effects of artificial WFL. The distance of FLOLIZ to the littoral zone could explain these results. Further studies in different environmental conditions, in different ecosystems and with different FLOLIZ designs are needed to provide additional information on the effectiveness of such structures as a mitigation tool.
Best Practice Guidelines – DEGUM Recommendations on Breast Ultrasound
Authors: Vogel-Minea Claudia Maria , Bader Werner , Blohmer Jens-Uwe , Duda Volker , Eichler Christian , Fallenberg Eva , Farrokh André , Golatta Michael , Gruber Ines , Hackelöer Bernhard-Joachim , Heil Jörg , Madjar Helmut , Marzotko Ellen , Merz Eberhard , Mundinger Alexander , Müller-Schimpfle Markus , Ohlinger Ralf , Peisker Uwe , Schulz-Wendtland Ruediger , Schäfer Fritz KW , Solbach Christine , Warm Mathias , Watermann Dirk , Wojcinaki Sebastian , Hahn Markus
Published: January 2025

Breast ultrasound has been established for many years as an important method in addition to mammography for clarifying breast findings. The goal of the Best Practice Guidelines Part III of the DEGUM breast ultrasound working group is to provide colleagues working in senology with information regarding the specific medical indications for breast ultrasound in addition to the current ultrasound criteria and assessment categories published in part I and the additional and optional sonographic diagnostic methods described in part II. The value of breast ultrasound for specific indications including follow-up, evaluation of breast implants, diagnostic workup of dense breast tissue, diagnostic workup during pregnancy and lactation, and the diagnostic workup of breast findings in men is discussed. Each section after the general information section contains a description of specific pathologies followed by a short summary and DEGUM recommendations for the particular indications. The latest S3 guidelines and AGO guidelines were taken into consideration.
3D Printing as an Aid in Acetabular Defects Compared to Established Diagnostics – a Survey
Authors: Babasiz Mari , Roos Jonas , Kasapovic Adnan , Kaczmarczyk Robert , Welle Kristian
Published: January 2025

The treatment of acetabular defects in revision arthroplasty is an increasing challenge. Different classifications have been introduced for preoperative planning to achieve the best possible result. 3D printing is a way to better visualize and understand these defects. The aim of this study was to facilitate classification, provide young doctors with a better understanding of complex defects, and ultimately improve preoperative planning and patient safety.

The study was conducted at the 2022 BOUT congress, where health care professionals were provided with X-rays, a computed tomography (CT) scan, and a 3D print to classify acetabulums according to Paprosky and ADC. A questionnaire was administered to gather information on their familiarity with the classification systems and perception of 3D models in the clinic.

The study involved 14 participants, mostly resident physicians, with some familiarity with the Paprosky and ADC classifications. The 3D printing method resulted in the highest rate of correct classifications for acetabular defects compared to X-ray and CT imaging. Participants found the 3D model useful for clinical applications and rated it higher than X-ray and CT imaging for classifying acetabular defects.

Acetabular defects present a challenge in assessment, preoperative planning, and surgical management due to their complex anatomy. Overall, we were able to show that the use of a 3D model increases the accuracy in the classification of acetabular defects. The use of 3D printing in orthopedics and trauma surgery is showing more and more advantages and has opened up new methods for the education of medical students and young surgeons.
Best Practice Guidelines – DEGUM Recommendations on Breast Ultrasound
Authors: Vogel-Minea Claudia M. , Bader Werner , Blohmer Jens-Uwe , Duda Volker , Eichler Christian , Fallenberg Eva , Farrokh André , Golatta Michael , Gruber Ines , Hackelöer Bernhard-Joachim , Heil Jörg , Madjar Helmut , Marzotko Ellen , Merz Eberhard , Mundinger Alexander , Müller-Schimpfle Markus , Ohlinger Ralf , Peisker Uwe , Schulz-Wendtland Ruediger , Schäfer Fritz K.W. , Solbach Christine , Warm Mathias , Watermann Dirk , Wojcinaki Sebastian , Hahn Markus
Published: January 2025

Breast ultrasound has been established for many years as an important method in addition to mammography for clarifying breast findings. The goal of the Best Practice Guidelines Part III of the DEGUM breast ultrasound working group is to provide colleagues working in senology with information regarding the specific medical indications for breast ultrasound in addition to the current ultrasound criteria and assessment categories published in part I and the additional and optional sonographic diagnostic methods described in part II. The value of breast ultrasound for specific indications including follow-up, evaluation of breast implants, diagnostic workup of dense breast tissue, diagnostic workup during pregnancy and lactation, and the diagnostic workup of breast findings in men is discussed. Each section after the general information section contains a description of specific pathologies, followed by a short summary and DEGUM recommendations for the particular indications. The latest S3 guidelines and AGO guidelines were taken into consideration.
Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus and Thromboembolism in Pregnancy
Authors: Thomas Jacob , Brewerton Charles , Holmgren Calla , Harrison Rachel
Published: January 2025

Objective The impact of type 1 DM (T1DM) on thromboembolism in pregnancy is uncertain. We hypothesized that T1DM is associated with higher rates of thrombotic events during pregnancy and the postpartum period.

Study Design This is a retrospective cohort study utilizing the National Inpatient Sample database from HCUP/AHRQ for 2017–2019. Pregnant and postpartum patients with a history of T1DM were compared to those without. The primary outcome was a composite diagnosis of any thrombotic disease (pulmonary embolism [PE], deep vein thrombosis [DVT], cerebral vascular thrombosis [CVT], or other thromboses). Secondary outcomes were the diagnosis of each individual type of thromboembolic event. Groups were compared via student's test, chi-squared, and logistic regression analyses, controlling for confounders including age, race, obesity, tobacco use, cHTN, asthma, anemia, and cesarean section.

Results A total of 2,361,711 subjects met the criteria. Patients with T1DM encompassed 0.4% of subjects (n = 9,983). T1DM subjects were more likely to be younger, non-Hispanic white, obese, tobacco users, chronic hypertensive, asthmatic, and have a history of cesarean (all p < 0.001). They were less likely to be in the top income quartile. Thromboembolic events occurred more frequently in those with T1DM (0.45% vs. 0.20%, p < 0.001). DVT was the most common event (0.25%). After controlling for confounders, T1DM remained independently associated with any thromboembolic event in pregnancy (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 2.19, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.49–3.23), PE (aOR = 3.59, 95% CI: 1.65–7.82), and DVT (aOR = 2.43, 95% CI: 1.43–4.14).

Conclusion T1DM is associated with an increased risk of thromboembolic events in pregnancy.

Key Points
The Impact of Antibiotics on Latency When Given at the Time of Membrane Rupture Before Viability
Authors: Lambert Katherine A. , Cate Jennifer , Honart Anne West , Grace Matthew R. , Dotters-Katz Sarah K.
Published: January 2025

Objective It is well established that antibiotics administered in preterm prelabor rupture of membranes increase latency to delivery. While data are limited for membrane rupture prior to viability, antibiotics may also increase latency in this population. This study aimed to assess the effect of prophylactic antibiotics on the duration of latency in individuals with previable prelabor rupture of membranes.

Study Design Retrospective cohort of pregnancies with previable prelabor rupture of membranes prior to 230/7 weeks in a single health system (2013–2022). Patients opting for termination or with a contraindication to expectant management were excluded. The primary outcome was latency from previable prelabor rupture of membranes diagnosis to delivery. Secondary outcomes included subanalysis by gestational age as well as maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality. Bivariate statistics compared patients who did and did not receive antibiotics (ampicillin, gentamicin). Kaplan-Meier/Cox proportional hazards ratios using significant covariates (p < 0.1) in bivariate analysis models examined antibiotic impact on latency.

Results Of 115 patients, 46 (40%) met inclusion criteria, of whom 34 (74%) received latency antibiotics. Median latency did not differ with antibiotic receipt (1 [0.4, 2.6] vs. 0.6 weeks [0.3, 0.9], p = 0.27). When adjusted for gestational age at rupture of membranes, antibiotics were not associated with longer latency (hazard ratio = 1.33 [0.91, 1.93]). Antibiotic receipt was associated with lower rates of previable delivery (23.0, [22.7, 24.0] vs. 21.3 weeks [20.5, 23.1], p = 0.006). Adjusted odds of previable delivery remained lower with receipt of antibiotics (adjusted odds ratio = 0.20, [0.04, 0.90]). Antibiotics were associated with longer latency in patients with rupture of membranes at less than 22 weeks gestation (2.4 [1.3,4.4] vs. 0.6 weeks [0.1,0.9], p = 0.02).

Conclusion Antibiotic administration at the time of previable prelabor rupture of membranes was associated with longer latency prior to 22 weeks gestation. Antibiotic administration increased the odds of delivering after viability. Further study should address optimal antibiotic strategies for this unique population.

Key Points
Distinct muscle growth and strength adaptations after preacher and
incline biceps curls
Authors: Kassiano Witalo , Costa Bruna , Kunevaliki Gabriel , Lisboa Felipe , Stavinski Natã , Prado Aline , Tricoli Ian , Francsuel Jarlisson , Lima Luis , Nunes JoãoPedro , Ribeiro Alex Silva , Cyrino Edilson S.
Published: January 2025

We compared performing preacher and incline biceps curls on changes in elbow
flexor muscle size and strength. This was a between-group repeated measure
randomized trial. Sixty-three young women performed the preacher biceps curl
(n=30) or the incline biceps curl (n=33) for 8 weeks, twice a
week. We measured the muscle thickness of elbow flexors at the proximal, middle,
and distal sites. We assessed the muscle strength using three repetition maximum
tests in the preacher curl and the incline curl. We observed a greater increase
in the proximal elbow flexor thickness in the incline biceps curl compared to
the preacher biceps curl (mean difference=0.08 cm [95% confidence interval:
0.02, 0.13 cm]). We observed a greater increase in the distal elbow flexor
thickness in the preacher biceps curl compared to the incline biceps curl (mean
difference=0.10 cm [95%CI: 0.04, 0.15 cm]). The preacher biceps curl showed a
greater increase in three repetition maximum tests in the preacher curl (mean
difference=1.88 kg [95%CI: 1.14, 2.62 kg]). The incline biceps curl showed a
greater increase in three repetition maximum tests in the incline biceps curl
(mean difference=0.86 kg [95%CI: 0.10, 1.62 kg]). Our findings suggest regional
differences in muscle growth induced by the preacher and incline biceps curls.
Strength gains appear to follow the principle of specificity.
Baylis–Hillman Adducts as a Valuable Source for Synthesis of Functionalized [4,4,4]-Propellone Dilactone Derivatives
Authors: Lenin Dandamudi V. , Malvi Payal , Mistry Dharti , Karunakar Galla V. , Rajput Diksha
Published: January 2025

A simple and facile synthesis of functionalized [4,4,4]-propellone dilactone derivatives through dialkylation of cyclic 1,3-diketones with Baylis–Hillman adducts and subsequent dilactonization is described. This methodology is appealing because it is reliable and scalable (the products can be synthesized on a gram scale). The tricyclic products can be exploited for their biological activity.
Keeping up with the Joneses? Perceptions of mobility and opportunity within local knowledge economies across Germany
Authors: Berriochoa Kattalina M. , Busemeyer Marius R.
Published: January 2025

Recent work on the rise of the knowledge economy has identified the importance of economic context in shaping individual perceptions and preferences. Combining novel survey and locally fine-grained data for the case of Germany, we analyze the association between local knowledge economies and individual perceptions of social mobility and economic opportunity. We find that individual perceptions of mobility, access to affordable housing, and employment security are negatively associated with thriving local knowledge economies. This finding is partly at odds with accounts of ‘aspirational voters’ being the beneficiaries of local economic growth. Rather, we interpret our findings as supporting the ‘status anxiety’ hypothesis, which attributes negative mobility perceptions with competition for scarce economic and social resources. In time, these perceptions can become fertile ground for the development of populist attitudes and vote choices.
Left to their own devices: the significance of mental health apps on the construction of therapy and care
Authors: Ruse Jesse N. , Schraube Ernst , Rhodes Paul
Published: January 2025

Mental health (MH) mobile apps offer convenient, low/no-cost automated psychological support. Little is known about what this technology does to the very definition of MH care. Looking through a post-phenomenological lens (Idhe, 1991), we examine how the app's materiality mediates the construction of psychological care. Through interviews with MH app users, analysis revealed that users experienced a detached and abstract kind of care, which ignored their real-life circumstances and particulars, and was not sensitive to the complex, context-dependent nature of their problems. Instead, the apps amplified a mechanistic and individualistic idea of psychological wellbeing. Meanwhile, the apps concealed the importance of interpersonal understanding, healing spaces, and sharing as meaningful parts of care. Some found this to be an impersonal and inappropriate way to deal with emotional problems, while others lamented their own inability to conform to the app’s ideals.
A design technique for transforming statically designed phononic crystals and metamaterials into multifunctional, programmable active acoustic meta-devices
Authors: Pundir Anil , Gupta Arpan , Nag Sarthak
Published: January 2025

The active tuning of the bandgaps induced by the acoustic metamaterials has sparked significant interest among researchers. It opens up possibilities for programmable, multifunctional acoustic meta-devices. The static design of acoustic metamaterials, however, has limited automation capabilities, particularly for controlling sound propagation through the elastic solids. Designing acoustic metamaterials with fluid as the host medium, specifically air, significantly reduces these constraints. Given this observation, the present work demonstrates a novel design technique that transforms a Phononic Crystal (PnC) into an Active Acoustic Meta-device (AAMD). The designed AAMD has been demonstrated as programmable and multi-functional. It functions as an acoustic barrier over around 94% of the applied frequency sweep (a.f.s)., 300–3500 Hz. As an acoustic transmitter, it magnifies acoustic energy over around 50% of the a.f.s. Similarly, it functions as an acoustic switch over 100% of the a.f.s. This metadevice distinguishes itself by solely utilizing a two-phase material system and employing basic design elements, rather than common resonating elements, such as Helmholtz resonators or softer coatings.
Corresponding-states framework for classical and quantum fluids—Beyond Feynman–Hibbs
Authors: van Westen Thijs , Bauer Gernot , Gross Joachim
Published: January 2025

Effective potential methods, obtained by applying a quantum correction to a classical pair potential, are widely used for describing the thermophysical properties of fluids with mild nuclear quantum effects. In case of strong nuclear quantum effects, such as for liquid hydrogen and helium, the accuracy of these quantum corrections deteriorates significantly, but at present no simple alternatives are available. In this work, we solve this issue by developing a new, three-parameter corresponding-states principle that remains applicable in the regions of the phase diagram where quantum effects become significant. The new principle emerges from a mapping procedure, which shows that quantum-corrected pair potentials can be made conformal to their underlying classical pair potential by modifying the latter’s repulsive range. This mapping enables an accurate description of fluids with quantum-corrected interactions based on off-the-shelf methods for classical fluids (e.g., equations of state, classical density functional theory, and entropy scaling) using effective, mapped intermolecular-potential parameters. These effective parameters depend on temperature and molecular mass; simple analytic equations in case of a classical Mie potential with Feynman–Hibbs quantum corrections are presented. Using Mie Feynman–Hibbs force fields from the literature, we show that this procedure provides accurate predictions for the properties of fluids with mild nuclear quantum effects, such as neon or hydrogen at moderate temperatures. Moreover, by adjusting the functional form of the effective intermolecular-potential parameters to experimental data for helium and hydrogen, we are able to apply the corresponding-states principle for optimal quantum-corrected pair potentials that far surpass the accuracy of the Feynman–Hibbs correction.
Tuning the electronic structure and SMSI by integrating trimetallic sites with defective ceria for the CO
2
reduction reaction
Authors: Singhvi Charvi , Sharma Gunjan , Verma Rishi , Paidi Vinod K. , Glatzel Pieter , Paciok Paul , Patel Vashishtha B. , Mohan Ojus , Polshettiwar Vivek
Published: January 2025

Heterogeneous catalysts have emerged as a potential key for closing the carbon cycle by converting carbon dioxide (CO
2
) into value-added chemicals. In this work, we report a highly active and stable ceria (CeO
2
)-based electronically tuned trimetallic catalyst for CO
2
to CO conversion. A unique distribution of electron density between the defective ceria support and the trimetallic nanoparticles (of Ni, Cu, Zn) was established by creating the strong metal support interaction (SMSI) between them. The catalyst showed CO productivity of 49,279 mmol g
−1
h
−1
at 650 °C. CO selectivity up to 99% and excellent stability (rate remained unchanged even after 100 h) stemmed from the synergistic interactions among Ni-Cu-Zn sites and their SMSI with the defective ceria support. High-energy-resolution fluorescence-detection X-ray absorption spectroscopy (HERFD-XAS) confirmed this SMSI, further corroborated by in situ electron energy loss spectroscopy (EELS) and density functional theory (DFT) simulations. The in situ studies (HERFD-XAS & EELS) indicated the key role of oxygen vacancies of defective CeO
2
during catalysis. The in situ transmission electron microscopy (TEM) imaging under catalytic conditions visualized the movement and growth of active trimetallic sites, which completely stopped once SMSI was established. In situ FTIR (supported by DFT) provided a molecular-level understanding of the formation of various reaction intermediates and their conversion into products, which followed a complex coupling of direct dissociation and redox pathway assisted by hydrogen, simultaneously on different active sites. Thus, sophisticated manipulation of electronic properties of trimetallic sites and defect dynamics significantly enhanced catalytic performance during CO
2
to CO conversion.
Assembly-enhanced recognition: A biomimetic pathway to achieve ultrahigh affinities
Authors: Chen Fang-Yuan , Geng Wen-Chao , Chen Meng-Meng , Fu Rong , Han Han , Zhang Zhan-Zhan , Li Wen-Bo , Cheng Yuan-Qiu , Li Juan-Juan , Stoddart J. Fraser , Cai Kang , Guo Dong-Sheng
Published: January 2025

On the one hand, nature utilizes hierarchical assemblies to create complex biological binding pockets, enabling ultrastrong recognition toward substrates in aqueous solutions. On the other hand, chemists have been fervently pursuing high-affinity recognition by constructing covalently well-preorganized stereoelectronic cavities. The potential of noncovalent assembly, however, for enhancing molecular recognition has long been underestimated. Inspired by (strept)avidin, an amphiphilic azocalix[4]arene derivative capable of assembly in aqueous solutions has been explored by us and demonstrated to exhibit ultrahigh binding affinity (up to 10
12
M
−1
), which is almost four orders of magnitude higher than those reported for nonassembled azocalix[4]arenes. An ultrastable azocalix[4]arene/photosensitizer complex has been applied in hypoxia-targeted photodynamic therapy for tumors. These findings highlight the immense potential of an assembly-enhanced recognition strategy in the development of the next generation of artificial receptors with appropriate functionalities and extraordinary recognition properties.
Soil microbiome bacteria protect plants against filamentous fungal infections via intercellular contacts
Authors: Lin Long , Shen Danyu , Shao Xiaolong , Yang Yicheng , Li Li , Zhong Caihong , Jiang Jiandong , Wang Mengcen , Qian Guoliang
Published: January 2025

Bacterial–fungal interaction (BFI) has significant implications for the health of host plants. While the diffusible antibiotic metabolite-mediated competition in BFI has been extensively characterized, the impact of intercellular contact remains largely elusive. Here, we demonstrate that the intercellular contact is a prevalent mode of interaction between beneficial soil bacteria and pathogenic filamentous fungi. By generating antibiotics-deficient mutants in two common soil bacteria,
Lysobacter enzymogenes
and
Pseudomonas fluorescens
, we show that antibiotics-independent BFI effectively inhibits pathogenic fungi. Furthermore, transcriptional and genetic evidence revealed that this antibiotics-independent BFI relies on intercellular contact mediated by the type VI secretion system (T6SS), which may facilitate the translocation of bacterial toxic effectors into fungal cells. Finally, by using a “conidia enrichment” platform, we found that T6SS-mediated fungal inhibition resulting from intercellular contact naturally occurs within the soil microbiome, particularly represented by
Pseudomonas fulva
. Overall, these results demonstrate that bacteria from the soil microbiome can protect host plants from fungal infection through antibiotics-independent intercellular contacts, thus revealing a naturally occurring and ecologically important mode of BFI in agricultural contexts.
The Use of Technology and Novel Developments in Positive Welfare Assessment for Housed Dairy Cows
Authors: Thompson Jake S. , Russell Alison L. , Randall Laura V. , Hyde Robert M. , Green Martin J.
Published: January 2025

The experience of dairy cows in housed conditions is an important topic both internally and externally for the dairy industry. The term positive welfare is becoming more commonly used but is a complex subject. The environment an animal inhabits will have a direct impact on health, well-being and production. Living space, the baseline metric for space provision, is highly variable across dairy farms. Current positive welfare initiatives include the use of environmental enrichment, novel stimuli and choice. A method to objectively measure welfare is urgently required to aid the evaluation of a cow’s environment. It can be extremely challenging for vets and farmers to monitor behaviours associated with positive affective states continuously and objectively. The main research areas of focus for exploration of how to improve welfare for housed dairy cows are described in detail. These are assessment (split between the ‘-omics’ and computer vision) and infrastructure provision (living space and environmental enrichment in housing). This key research area has the potential to significantly improve cow health, production and welfare through optimisation of their living conditions. The utilisation of novel technological advancements in artificial intelligence alongside similar step changes in gene expression assessment, provides the potential to revolutionise management practices for livestock.

Information

© The Authors 2025
Real-time control of radiofrequency ablation using three-dimensional ultrasound echo decorrelation imaging in normal and diseased ex vivo human liver
Authors: Ghahramani Elmira , Grimm Peter D , Weiss Benjamin E , Schoenleb Nicholas S , Knapp Alexander J , Wang Jiang , Ahmad Syed A , Shah Shimul A , Quillin III Ralph C , Patel Sameer H , Mast T Douglas
Published: January 2025

Objective. Ultrasound echo decorrelation imaging can successfully monitor and control thermal ablation of animal liver and tumor tissue ex vivo and in vivo. However, normal and diseased human liver has substantially different physical properties that affect echo decorrelation. Here, effects of human liver tissue condition on ablation guidance by three-dimensional echo decorrelation imaging are elucidated in experiments testing closed-loop control of radiofrequency ablation (RFA) in normal and diseased human liver tissue ex vivo. Approach. Samples of normal, steatotic, and cirrhotic human liver tissue underwent RFA, targeting a 20 mm-diameter spherical ablation zone. For each tissue condition, RFA was controlled by echo decorrelation in N> 14 trials, automatically ceasing if average cumulative decorrelation within the targeted ablation zone surpassed a predetermined threshold (successfully controlled trials), or otherwise completing a standard ablation cycle of the RFA generator (unsuccessfully controlled). For comparison, N = 14 RFA trials for each tissue condition followed the RFA generator’s standard algorithm without echo decorrelation feedback (uncontrolled). Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) and precision-recall curve analyses compared 3D echo decorrelation maps to segmented ablation zones. To assess effects of closed-loop control and liver condition on treatment reliability, ablation volumes, rates, and Dice coefficients for measured vs. targeted ablation zones were statistically compared among control conditions and liver types. Results. ROC curves showed effective prediction of local ablation by echo decorrelation across all liver types and control conditions (0.876 ⩽AUROC ⩽ 0.953). Successful control was significantly more frequent, ablated volumes were generally larger, and optimal echo decorrelation thresholds were smaller for normal compared to diseased liver. Significance. This study validates three-dimensional echo decorrelation imaging for monitoring and control of RFA in healthy and diseased human liver while elucidating the dependence of RFA and echo decorrelation outcomes on liver condition and resulting implications for clinical applications.
Assessing fetal radiation dose from iodine-125 seeds in pregnant breast cancer patients: an updated model
Authors: Pluim J M E , van de Kamer J B , Heeling E , van der Ploeg I M C , Hulsen D J W
Published: January 2025

Objective. The treatment of breast cancer during pregnancy requires careful consideration of consequences for both maternal and fetal health. In non-pregnant patients, the use of radioactive iodine-125 (125I)-seeds is standard practice for localising non-palpable breast tumors before breast-conserving surgery. However, the use of 125I-seeds in pregnant patients has been avoided due to concerns about fetal radiation exposure. Approach. In this study a mathematical model was developed to estimate the fetal absorbed dose based on several factors: the radioactivity of the 125I-seed, the duration of implantation, and the distance between the 125I-seed and fetus as a function of maternal anatomy, gestational age, and fetal development. Three scenarios, representing a range of maternal and fetal anatomy, were evaluated, including a worst-case scenario from a radiation safety perspective. Main results. The results show that the fetal absorbed dose varies across the three scenarios, with ranges of 0.0–0.4 mGy, 0.0–1.0 mGy, and 0.0–1.6 mGy, depending on when the 125I-seed was implanted and when it was removed. These dose ranges are similar to conventional diagnostic x-ray scans. The maximum calculated absorbed dose (1.6 mGy) is unlikely to be reached in practice and is well below the 100 mGy threshold associated with possible fetal malformations. The associated theoretical cancer risk increase (0.016%) is minimal. Significance. The use of 125I-seeds as localisation method of breast tumors in pregnant patients results in low fetal radiation doses and should not be avoided due to dose concerns.
Electromagnetically induced transparency and second-order sideband Effects in a Laguerre-Gaussian cavity optorotational system with Kerr medium
Authors: Li Jingxuan , Huang Sumei , Chen Aixi
Published: January 2025

In this paper, we investigate the phenomena of electromagnetically induced transparency (EIT) and the generation of second-order sideband in a Laguerre-Gaussian (LG) cavity optorotational sys tem with a Kerr nonlinear medium. Using the perturbation method, we analyze the first- and second order sideband generations in the output field from the system under the actions of a strong controlfield and a weak probe field. Numerical simulations show that the Kerr nonlinearity can lead to the occurrence of the asymmetric line shape in the transmission of the probe field and the efficiency of second-order sideband generation, and the Kerr nonlinearity can enhance the efficiency of the second order sideband generation. Comparing with traditional scheme for generating the second-order sideband, our spectral shape of the second-order sideband is amplified and becomes asymmetric, which has potential applications in precision measurement, high-sensitivity devices, and frequency conversion.
The impact of green technology innovation, pro-environmental behavior and eco-design on green new product success: examine the moderating role of green corporate image
Authors: Mahmood Shahid , Iqbal Asifa , El-kenawy El-Sayed M , Eid Marwa M , Alhussan Amel Ali , Sami Khafaga Doaa
Published: January 2025

Environmental consciousness has grown, and businesses have been increasingly compelled to adhere to international treaties and regulations. The present study posits that eco-design, green technology and pro-environmental behavior impact the success of new green products by utilizing green process innovation and green product innovation as mediators, with green corporate image serving as a moderator. Furthermore, this study underscores the important of building a positive green corporate image to enhance the effectiveness of sustainable initiatives in the textile sector. Data for the present study were collected from 756 individuals in top, middle, and low-level management positions in various textile sectors operating in Pakistan, using a standardized questionnaire and appropriate sampling strategy for empirical investigation. Data were analyzed using Smart PLS. The results of this study demonstrate that eco-design, green technology and environmentally conscious behavior positively influence a company’s performance with new products. Green process innovation also mediated the relationship between eco-design, green technology, and pro-environmental behavior and a company’s success with new products. Additionally, the data reveal that a green corporate image moderates the link between green product innovation, green process innovation, and an organization’s performance with new products. The research also indicates that green product innovation does not attenuate the link between a company’s eco-design process and the success of new green products. The current study has significantly implications for management, theory, and practice, as it contributes to the existing literature with empirical research on green technology innovation, pro-environmental behavior, and organizational success in developing new products.
Multi-source semi-supervised condition constrained domain adaptation for process fault classification
Authors: Guo Xiaoping , Lv Ronghui , Li Yuan
Published: January 2025

To address inconsistent feature distributions caused by multiple working conditions in industrial processes and the lack of fault type labels, this paper proposes a Multi-source semi-supervised conditional constraint domain adaptation (MSSCCDA) fault classification method. Data from multiple working conditions are divided into multiple source domains and a target domain. A Convolutional neural network (CNN) extracts features from the multi-source domain data, and a triplet loss method reduces the feature distance between the same categories in different source domains. A semi-supervised conditional constraint domain adaptation method is proposed, which combines adversarial domain adaptation with a limited amount of labeled target domain data to pre-train the feature extractor. During adversarial training, center loss regularization is introduced as a conditional constraint for class feature alignment. The process of optimizing the feature extractor involves jointly leveraging adversarial loss to reduce inter-domain discrepancies between the source and target domains and minimizing class differences within target domain. Experiments conducted on the Tennessee-Eisman (TE) process and industrial three-phase flow (TFF) show that the average accuracy improves to 93% and 93%, respectively. The effectiveness of the proposed method is further validated through a comparison with two traditional domain adaptation approaches and five multi-source domain adaptation techniques.
Global-in-time energy stability analysis for a second-order accurate exponential time differencing Runge–Kutta scheme for the phase field crystal equation
Authors: Li Xiao , Qiao Zhonghua , Wang Cheng , Zheng Nan
Published: January 2025

The global-in-time energy estimate is derived for the second-order accurate exponential time differencing Runge–Kutta (ETDRK2) numerical scheme to the phase field crystal (PFC) equation, a sixth-order parabolic equation modeling crystal evolution. To recover the value of stabilization constant, some local-in-time convergence analysis has been reported, and the energy stability becomes available over a fixed final time. In this work, we develop a global-in-time energy estimate for the ETDRK2 numerical scheme to the PFC equation by showing the energy dissipation property for any final time. An a priori assumption at the previous time step, combined with a single-step

H
2

H^2

estimate of the numerical solution, is the key point in the analysis. Such an

H
2

H^2

estimate recovers the maximum norm bound of the numerical solution at the next time step, and then the value of the stabilization parameter can be theoretically justified. This justification ensures the energy dissipation at the next time step, so that the mathematical induction can be effectively applied, by then the global-in-time energy estimate is accomplished. This paper represents the first effort to theoretically establish a global-in-time energy stability analysis for a second-order stabilized numerical scheme in terms of the original free energy functional. The presented methodology is expected to be available for many other Runge–Kutta numerical schemes to the gradient flow equations.
Numerical simulation of the Gross–Pitaevskii equation via vortex tracking
Authors: Carvalho Corso Thiago , Kemlin Gaspard , Melcher Christof , Stamm Benjamin
Published: January 2025

This paper deals with the numerical simulation of the Gross–Pitaevskii (GP) equation, for which a well-known feature is the appearance of quantized vortices with core size of the order of a small parameter

ε
\varepsilon

. Without a magnetic field and with suitable initial conditions, these vortices interact, in the singular limit

ε
→
0

\varepsilon \to 0

, through an explicit Hamiltonian dynamics. Using this analytical framework, we develop and analyze a numerical strategy based on the reduced-order Hamiltonian system to efficiently simulate the infinite-dimensional GP equation for small, but finite,

ε
\varepsilon

. This method allows us to avoid numerical stability issues in solving the GP equation, where small values of

ε
\varepsilon

typically require very fine meshes and time steps. We also provide a mathematical justification of our method in terms of rigorous error estimates of the error in the supercurrent, together with numerical illustrations.
Fission yeast GPI inositol deacylase Bst1 regulates ER-Golgi transport and functions in late stages of cytokinesis
Authors: Ye Yanfang , Osmani Aysha H. , Liu Zhen-Ru , Kern Addie , Wu Jian-Qiu
Published: January 2025

The Munc13/UNC-13 family protein Ync13 is essential for septum integrity and cytokinesis in fission yeast. To further explore the mechanism of Ync13 functions, spontaneous suppressors of ync13 mutants, which can suppress the colony-formation defects and lysis phenotype of ync13 mutant cells, are isolated and characterized. One of the suppressor mutants, bst1- s27, shows defects in the cytokinetic contractile ring constriction, septation, and daughter cell separation, similar to bst1Δ mutant. Bst1, a predicted GPI inositol deacylase, was an uncharacterized protein in fission yeast. It localizes to ER and puncta structures in the cytoplasm. The Bst1 puncta overlaps frequently with Anp1, which is a marker of endoplasmic reticulum (ER)-Golgi transport, but rarely with trans-Golgi marker Sec72. The nuclear ER signal of Anp1 increases in bst1Δ mutant, whereas Sec72 localization shows no obvious changes. In addition, more cytoplasmic puncta structures of COPII subunits, Sec13 and Sec24, are observed in bst1Δ mutant, and acid phosphatase secretion is compromised without Bst1. Consistently, the division site targeting of the β-glucanase Eng1 and α-glucanase Agn1 is reduced in bst1Δ and bst1Δ ync13Δ mutant. Taken together, our results suggest that Bst1 regulates ER-Golgi transport and is involved in cytokinesis through regulating the secretion of glucanases.
MAL2 and rab17 selectively redistribute invadopodia proteins to laterally-induced protrusions in hepatocellular carcinoma cells
Authors: Davis Saniya S. , Bassaro Lauren. R. , Tuma Pamela L.
Published: January 2025

MAL2 (myelin and lymphocyte protein 2) and rab17 have been identified as hepatocellular carcinoma tumor suppressors. However, little is known how their functions in hepatic polarized protein sorting/trafficking translate into how they function in the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition and/or the mesenchymal-to-epithelial transition in metastases. To investigate this, we expressed MAL2 and rab17 alone or together in hepatoma-derived Clone 9 cells (that lack endogenous MAL2 and rab17). Like MAL2, we found that rab17 expression led to the formation of actin- and cholesterol-dependent protrusions that correlated to its anti-oncogenic properties. MAL2 or rab17 selectively promoted the redistribution of invadopodia proteins to the protrusion tips that correlated with decreased matrix degradation. MAL2-mediated redistribution required a putative EVH1 recognition motif whereas rab17-mediated redistribution was GTP dependent. We also determined that MAL2 and rab17 interaction was GTP dependent, but not dependent on the MAL2 EVH1 recognition motifs, and that protrusions formed by their combined expression shared features of those induced by either alone. Finally, we report that MAL2 or rab17 can redirect trafficking of newly synthesized membrane proteins from the Golgi to the induced protrusions and that the EVH1 recognition motif was required in MAL2 and that rab17-mediated trafficking was GTP dependent.
SYS-1/beta-catenin inheritance and regulation by Wnt signaling during asymmetric cell division
Authors: Michel Maria F. Valdes , Phillips Bryan T.
Published: January 2025

Asymmetric cell division (ACD) allows daughter cells of a polarized mother to acquire different developmental fates. In Caenorhabditis elegans, the Wnt/β-catenin Asymmetry (WβA) pathway regulates many embryonic and larval ACDs; here, a Wnt gradient induces an asymmetric distribution of Wnt signaling components within the dividing mother cell. One terminal nuclear effector of the WβA pathway is the transcriptional activator SYS-1/β-catenin. SYS-1 is sequentially negatively regulated during ACD; first by centrosomal regulation and subsequent proteasomal degradation and second by asymmetric activity of the β-catenin “destruction complex” in one of the two daughter cells, which decreases SYS-1 levels in the absence of WβA signaling. However, the extent to which mother cell SYS-1 influences cell fate decisions of the daughters is unknown. Here, we quantify inherited SYS-1 in the differentiating daughter cells and the role of SYS-1 inheritance in Wnt-directed ACD. Photobleaching experiments demonstrate the GFP::SYS-1 present in daughter cell nuclei is comprised of inherited and de novo translated SYS-1 pools. We used a photoconvertible DENDRA2::SYS-1, to directly observe the dynamics of inherited SYS-1. Photoconversion during mitosis reveals that SYS-1 clearance at the centrosome preferentially degrades older SYS-1 and that newly localized centrosomal SYS-1 depends on dynein trafficking. Photoconversion of DENDRA2::SYS-1 in the EMS cell during Wnt-driven ACD shows daughter cell inheritance of mother cell SYS-1. Additionally, disrupting centrosomal SYS-1 localization in mother cells increased inherited SYS-1 and, surprisingly, loss of centrosomal SYS-1 also resulted in increased levels of de novo SYS-1 in both EMS daughter cells. Last, we show that negative regulation of SYS-1 in daughter cells via the destruction complex member APR-1/APC is key to limit both the de novo and the inherited SYS-1 pools in both the E and the MS cells. We conclude that regulation of both inherited and newly translated SYS-1 via centrosomal processing in the mother cell and daughter cell regulation via Wnt signaling are critical to maintain sister SYS-1 asymmetry during ACD.