bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Framework for the Multi-Objective Design Optimization of Aerocapture Missions
Authors: Urraza Atue Segundo , Bruce Paul
Published: February 2025

Developing spacecraft for efficient aerocapture missions demands managing extreme aerothermal environments, precise controls, and atmospheric uncertainties. Successful designs must integrate vehicle airframe considerations with trajectory planning, adhering to launcher dimension constraints and ensuring robustness against atmospheric and insertion uncertainties. To advance robust multi-objective optimization in this field, the new framework is presented, designed to rapidly analyze and optimize non-thrusting, fixed angle-of-attack aerocapture-capable spacecraft and their trajectories. The framework employs a 3-degree-of-freedom atmospheric flight dynamics model incorporating planet-specific characteristics. Aerothermal effects are approximated using established Sutton-Graves, Tauber-Sutton, and Stephan-Boltzmann relations. The framework computes the resulting post-atmospheric pass orbit using an orbital element determination algorithm to estimate fuel requirements for orbital corrective maneuvers. A novel algorithm that consolidates multiple objective functions into a unified cost function is presented and demonstrated to achieve superior optima with computational efficiency compared to traditional multi-objective optimization approaches. Numerical examples demonstrate the methodology’s effectiveness and computational cost at optimizing Terrestrial and Martian Aerocapture maneuvers for minimum fuel, heat loads, peak heat transfers, and an overall optimal trajectory, including volumetric considerations.
A High Burden of Infectious Tuberculosis Cases Among Older Children and Young Adolescents of Female Gender in Ethiopia
Authors: Dememew Zewdu Gashu , Deribew Atakilty Abreha , Zegeye Amtatachew Moges , Janfa Taye Letta
Published: February 2025

The study was conducted in all regions of Ethiopia, except Tigray. It describes types of Tuberculosis (TB) based on gender, age, region, HIV, and geographic setting in Ethiopia. It is a cross-sectional study that utilized the Ministry of Health’s District Health Information System-based reporting to analyze all types of TB from July 2022 to March 2024. 290,450 TB cases were detected: 42.6% (123,871) were female, 9.4% (27,160) were children (under 15 years of age), and 14.5% (42,228) were adolescents (10–19 years of age). About 48% (20,185) of adolescent TB cases were bacteriologically confirmed, of which 47.5% were females. Compared to children <5 years, male to female ration is 26% higher among older children (5–9 years of age) (AOR: 1.26, 95% CI: 0.51-2.01)) and by 53% among adolescents (AOR: 1.53, 95% CI 0.87-2.18). In short, about half of TB cases are infectious among older children and young adolescents of females’ gender in Ethiopia. TB among these age categories may be addressed through integration of TB services with reproductive health services and youth-friendly and pediatric clinics.
A Survey of Route Bus Speed Change Pattern for Clarifying Electrification Benefits
Authors: Fang Yiyuan , Yang Wei-hsiang , Kamiya Yushi
Published: February 2025

This study aims to describe the advantages of electrifying regular-route buses. The results of a survey on the speed profile of buses operating on actual routes are presented here. Firstly, we focus on the acceleration / deceleration at the starting / stopping stops specifically for regular-route buses and obtain the following information: I. Starting acceleration from a bus stop is particularly strong in the second half of the acceleration process, being suitable for motor-driven vehicles. II. The features of the stopping deceleration at a bus stop are “high intensity” and “low dispersion,” with the latter enabling the refinement of regenerative settings and significantly lowering electricity economy during electrification. And we compare the speed profile of a fuel cell bus with those of a diesel bus and obtain the following information: III. Motor-driven vehicles have “high acceleration performance” and “no gear shifting” which facilitate the high-intensity stop–start acceleration operation unique to regular-route buses. By calculating and analyzing the jerk amount, we could quantitatively demonstrate the comfortable driving experience while riding on this type of bus where there is no shock due to gear shifting. IV. While the “high acceleration performance” of motor-driven vehicles produces “individual differences in the speed change patterns,” this does not translate to “individual differences in electricity consumption” owing to the characteristics of this type of vehicle. With engine-driven vehicles, measures, such as “slow acceleration” and ”shift up early” are strongly encouraged to realize eco-driving, and any driving style that deviates from these measures is avoided. However, with motor-driven vehicles, the driver does not need to be too concerned about the speed change patterns during acceleration. This characteristic also suggests a benefit in terms of the electrification of buses.
Value Stream Cost Analysis of the Suture Logistic Processes
Authors: Sales Coll Marc , Álvarez Ana , Aranda Humberto , Jorba Jordi , Ochoa de Echagüen Anna , Soler Júlia , Marin Naira
Published: February 2025

Efficiency is key in healthcare supply chain management, especially in surgery, which generates revenue but also incurs significant costs. To cope with increasing demand and stagnant budgets, optimizing processes is essential, with potential operational savings being reinvested. Shifting focus from product supply to solution provision is necessary through new contracting formulas and relationship models, prioritizing value-added actions with a patient-centric approach. This article presents a cost analysis of suture logistic processes from a University Hospital, aiming to develop efficient and safer surgical closure and processes by identifying areas for improvement, promoting cultural change, clinical excellence and proposing operational savings actions.
Facilitating value-based healthcare requires attention to the quality of assistance provided, including from the perspective of sutures.
This study aimed to analyze the costs related to suture management within the surgical area and diagnose the logistic processes related, to propose solutions for a more efficient and safer surgical closure and suture management process. The analysis was conducted using two blocks of actions: process efficiency and adequacy of clinical practice.
Ion-Specific Gelation and Internal Dynamics of Nanocellulose Biocompatible Hybrid Hydrogels: Insights from Fluctuation Analysis
Authors: Bartolomei Arianna , D'Amato Elvira , Scarpa Marina , Bergamaschi Greta , Gori Alessandro , Bettotti Paolo
Published: February 2025

Hydrogels find widespread use in bioapplications for their ability to retain large amounts of water while maintaining structural integrity. In this article we investigate hybrid hydrogels made of nanocellulose and either amino-polyethylenglycol or sodium alginates and we demonstrate two novel results: 1) the biocompatibility of the amino containing hybrid gel synthesized using a simplified receipt that does not require any intermediate synthetic step to functionalize either components and 2) the fact that the fluctuation of the 2nd order correlation function of a Dynamic Light Scattering experiment provides relevant information about the characteristic internal dynamic of the materials across the entire sol-gel transition as well as quantitative information about the ion-specific gel formation. This novel approach offers significantly better temporal (10’s μs) and spatial (10’s μm) resolution than many other state-of-the-art techniques commonly used for such analyses (such as rheometry, SAXS, and NMR) and it might find widespread application in the characterization of the nano to microscale dynamics in soft materials.
Fracture of the Frontal Sinus: Complexity of a Multidisciplinary Treatment
Authors: Arruda Vasconcelos Vinicius , Pereira Lucas Cavalieri , Coral Ana Júlia , Diaz Laura , Prado Bruno Nifosi
Published: February 2025

Study Design: A retrospective study Objective: This study aims to retrospectively present our experience in the management of frontal sinus fractures, thus understanding the entire epidemiology of fractures and guiding us in the best form of treatment. Methods: The medical records of patients with frontal sinus fractures, which occurred from 2017 to 2024 (8 years), in the city os Piracicaba (423.000 inhabitants), State od São Paulo (Brazil), involving three trauma reference hospitals in the region. These patients were diagnosed and treated by the same Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery team. Results: we obtained the number of 40 patients, with ages ranging from 1 to 89 years, and an average age of 41 years. There was a predominance of the male sex with 39 cases and only 1 case of the female. After establishing the diagnosis, 22 patients received conservative treatment, while 18 patients were treated surgically (45%). The predominant etiology of the fractures was traffic accidents, accounting for 15 patients (37.5%). Conclusions: An analysis of data relating to frontal sinus fractures revealed a higher prevalence among male patients, with an average age of 41 years. The main causal factor identified was traffic accidents, which represented the majority of cases. Not that it refers to treatment, the conservative approach was the most commonly adopted. Furthermore, case review did not indicate the occurrence of complications during follow-up, resulting in recovery without the need for additional interventions.
Congenital Oropouche in Humans: Clinical Characterization of a Possible New Teratogenic Syndrome
Authors: Ribeiro Bethânia FR , Barreto André Rodrigues Façanha , Pessoa Andre , Azevedo Raimunda do Socorro da Silva , Rodrigues Flávia de Freitas , Borges Bruna da Cruz Beyruth , Mantilla Natália Pimentel Moreno , Muniz Davi Dantas , Chiang Jannifer Oliveira , Fraga Lucas Rosa , Vianna Fernanda Sales Luiz , Sanseverino Maria Teresa Vieira , Faccini Lilith Schuler , Martins Fernanda Eduarda das Neves , Azevedo Rafael da Silva , Martins Livia Caricio , Casseb Livia Medeiros Neves , Oliveira Consuelo Silva , Vasconcelos Pedro Fernando da Costa , Quaresma Juarez Antônio Simões , Abeche Alberto Mantovani , Prazeres Vania de Mesquita Gadelha , Oliveira Lucia Andreia Nunes de , Karam Simone de Menezes , Radin Giulia , del Campo Miguel , Ventura Camila V , Schuler-Faccini Lavinia
Published: February 2025

Oropouche fever is caused by the Oropouche virus (OROV; Bunyaviridae, Orthobun-yavirus), one of the most frequent arboviruses that infect humans in the Brazilian Amazon. This year, an OROV outbreak was identified in Brazil, and its vertical trans-mission was reported, which was associated with fetal death and microcephaly. We describe the clinical manifestations identified in three cases of congenital OROV infec-tion with confirmed serology (OROV-IgM) in the mother-newborn binomial. One of the newborns died, and post-mortem molecular analysis using real-time RT-qPCR identified the OROV genome in several tissues. All three newborns were born in the Amazon region in Brazil, and the mothers reported fever, rash, headache, myalgia, and/or retro-orbital pain during pregnancy. The newborns presented with severe mi-crocephaly secondary to brain damage and arthrogryposis, suggestive of an em-bryo/fetal disruptive process at birth. Brain and spinal images identified overlapping sutures, cerebral atrophy, brain cysts, thinning of the spinal cord, corpus callosum, and posterior fossa abnormalities. Fundoscopic findings included macular chorioretinal scars, focal pigment mottling, and vascular attenuation. The clinical presentation of vertical OROV infection resembled congenital Zika syndrome to some extent but pre-sents some distinctive features on brain imaging and in several aspects of its neurolog-ical presentation. A recognizable syndrome with severe brain damage, neurological alterations, arthrogryposis, and fundoscopic abnormalities can be associated with in-utero OROV infection.
Machine Learning Strategies for Forecasting Mannosylerythritol Lipid Production in Fermentation Processes
Authors: Vares Carolina A. , Agostinho Sofia P. , Fred Ana L.N. , Faria Nuno T. , Rodrigues Carlos A. V.
Published: February 2025

Fermentations are complex and often unpredictable processes. However, fermentation-based bioprocesses generate large volumes of data that are currently underexplored. These data can be used to develop data-driven models, such as machine learning (ML), to improve process predictability. Among various fermentation products, biosurfactants have emerged as promising candidates for several industrial applications. Nevertheless, biosurfactant large-scale production is not yet cost-effective. This study aims to develop forecasting methods for the concentration of mannosylerythritol lipids (MELs), a type of biosurfactant, produced in Moesziomyces spp. cultivation. Three ML models, Neural Networks (NN), Support Vector Machines (SVM), and Random Forests (RF), were used. NN provided predictions with a mean squared error (MSE) of 0.69 for day 4 and 1.63 for day 7, and a mean absolute error (MAE) of 0.58 g/L and 1.1 g/L, respectively. These results indicate that the model’s predictions are sufficiently accurate for practical use, with the MAE showing only minor deviations from the actual concentrations. Both results are promising, as they demonstrate the possibility of obtaining reliable predictions of MELs production for days 4 and 7 of fermentation. This, in turn, could help reduce process-related costs, enhancing its economic viability.
Governance and Institutional Frameworks in Ethiopian Integrated Agro-Industrial Parks: Enhancing Innovation Ecosystems and Multi Stakeholder Coordination for Global Market Competitiveness
Authors: Boru Efa Muleta , Hwang Jun Seok , Ahmad Abdi Yuya
Published: February 2025

This study explores the relationship between institutional frameworks, innovation ecosystems, and stakeholder coordination, focusing on their collective impact on enhancing global competitiveness within Integrated Agro-Industrial Parks (IAIPs) in Ethiopia. A mixed-methods approach, combining qualitative thematic analysis, Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM), and SWOT analysis, was used to examine governance structures and their effects on innovation and competitiveness. The findings reveal that strong governance and institutional frameworks foster stakeholder coordination and innovation ecosystems, but the connection between these factors and global competitiveness remains weak. Key challenges include misaligned innovation processes and limited private sector participation. The SWOT analysis highlights strengths such as climate-smart practices and infrastructure, while identifying weaknesses like quality issues, traceability gaps, and seasonal supply constraints. The study concludes that adaptive governance frameworks, aligned innovation processes, and policy adjustments are essential to improving Ethiopia’s global competitiveness. Public-private partnerships, the use of digital agriculture tools, and improved traceability systems are critical in enhancing IAIPs' effectiveness in the global market. The promotion of inclusive decision-making, sustainable practices, and resilient supply chains is also vital to maximizing IAIPs' potential in global competitiveness.
Employing Blockchain, NFTs, and Digital Certificates for Unparalleled Authenticity and Data Protection of Source Code
Authors: Ramirez Lopez Leonardo Juan , Morillo Ledezma Genesis Gabriela
Published: February 2025

In higher education, especially in programming-intensive fields like computer science, safeguarding students' source code is crucial to prevent theft that could impact learning and future careers. Traditional storage solutions like Google Drive are vulnerable to hacking and alterations, highlighting the need for stronger protection. This work explores digital technologies that enhance source code security, with a focus on Blockchain and NFTs. Due to Blockchain’s decentralized and immutable nature, NFTs can be used to control code ownership, improving security, traceability, and preventing unauthorized access. This approach effectively addresses existing gaps in protecting academic intellectual property. However, as Bennett et al. highlight, while these technologies have significant potential, challenges remain in large-scale implementation and user acceptance. Despite these hurdles, integrating Blockchain and NFTs presents a promising opportunity to enhance academic integrity. A successful adoption in educational settings may require a more inclusive and innovative strategy.
The Design of a Vision-assisted Dynamic Antenna Positioning RFID-based Inventory Robot Utilizing a 3DOF Manipulator
Authors: Alajami Abdussalam A. , Pous Rafael
Published: February 2025

This paper introduces the design and evaluation of an RFID-based inventory robot that uses vision and a 3-degree-of-freedom (DOF) manipulator for dynamic antenna positioning. The robotic system is designed to enhance RFID tag detection performance and efficiency in inventory management by autonomously detecting objects, orienting an RFID antenna towards them, and executing a circular scanning motion that ensures complete coverage of the object’s surface. This paper also present a comparative analysis of three scanning strategies: (1) a conventional fixed antenna approach, where the antenna remains stationary on one side of the robot; (2) a predefined path strategy, where the manipulator moves the antenna across preset spatial points to maximize coverage; and (3) an intelligent detection and dynamic positioning method. In the latter, a pre-trained YOLO model identifies probable products and utilizes forward and inverse kinematics to precisely position the manipulator’s end effector (The antenna) to perform a tailored circular motion around the object, ensuring comprehensive RFID tag scanning. Experimental results, illustrated through comparative graphs, highlight the superior performance of the vision-assisted dynamic positioning approach. This method significantly outperforms the fixed and predefined path strategies in terms of the total number of RFID tags read over time, particularly in scenarios with varied object heights and spatial distributions. The work in this paper marks a step forward in the development of autonomous inventory robots and autonomous warehouse systems, offering enhanced capabilities for real-time inventory tracking and management.
Stability Analysis of a Fractional Epidemic Model Involving Vaccination Effect
Authors: Çakan Sümeyye
Published: February 2025

This paper, by constructing a fractional epidemic model, analyzes the transmission dynamics of some infectious diseases under the effect of vaccination, which is one of the most effective and common control measures. In the model, with reference that antibody formation by vaccination may not cause permanent immunity, it has been taken into account that the protection period provided by the vaccine may be finite in addition the fact that this period may change according to individuals. The model differs from other SVIR models given in the literature in terms of its progressive process with a distributed delay in losing of the protective effect provided by the vaccine. To explain this process, the model has been constructed by using a system of distributed delay nonlinear fractional integro-differential equations. Thus, the model aims to present a realistic approach to following the course of the disease.
Nursing Care for Patients with Euglycemic Diabetic Ketoacidosis After Cardiac Surgery: A Case Report
Authors: Xiang Xiaorun , Zhang Sha , Deng Yao , Wang Ya , Ye Maoting , Sun Wei
Published: February 2025

Objective euDKA is a fatal complication of diabetes, but its symptoms overlap with common symptoms after cardiac surgery and are not easily detected. euDKA associated with SGLT2i was reported, highlighting the importance of recognizing novel hypoglycemic agents for this condition in different populations. Methods We describe the management of a 58-year-old diabetic man who developed severe nonhyperglycemic ketoacidosis after cardiac surgery. A detailed clinical care assessment and management was performed, including dietary history, physical examination, laboratory evaluation of blood ketone bodies, and results of blood gas analysis for metabolic analysis. Results The results showed that the blood ketone body was elevated, accompanied by severe metabolic acidosis and clinical symptoms of polydipsia, polyphagia and polyuria. After massive fluid replacement, small dose insulin treatment, and adjustment of diet structure, the patient's clinical symptoms disappeared, and the blood ketone body laboratory results returned to normal. Conclusions This case highlights the association between non-hyperglycemic diabetic ketoacidosis and sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors, and emphasizes the importance of thorough medication history and blood test results for accurate diagnosis. As de novo diabetes agents become more popular worldwide, increased awareness of nonhyperglycemic diabetic ketoacidosis is critical to ensure prompt diagnosis and effective management.
Autonomous Ride-Sharing Services in the United States: A Scoping Review of Policies, Implementation, Performance and Market Penetration
Authors: Wandenkolk Isabelle , Classen Sherrilene , Williams Audrey
Published: February 2025

Autonomous ride-sharing services (ARSS) offer promise in enhancing transportation, improving access for underserved populations, and addressing road safety by mitigating human error. However, their development and adoption are influenced by complex interplay of policies, implementation strategies, technological performance, and market penetration. This scoping review examined the evolving ARSS landscape in the US through literature published between 2018 and 2023. The review included 22 studies, capturing some national policies while no federal regulations related to ARSS were identified. The review predominantly covered market penetration, with few studies addressing performance and one study on implementation strategies. Findings were framed using the socio-ecological model. At the individual level, factors such as safety, affordability, and accessibility influence market penetration of ARSS. At the relational level, trust-building interactions, including the role of safety operators, emerged as key to addressing mobility concerns. At the community level, the findings indicate the need for technological improvements, public infrastructure investment, and education initiatives to enhance ARSS performance and implementation. At the societal level, the review did not include all existing policies in the US, requiring further investigation. These findings provide insights for researchers, transportation planners, and policymakers, guiding the development of evidence-based strategies to foster a sustainable transportation future.
Cost-Effectiveness Evaluation of Chlorhexidine Coated vs. Standard Peripherally Inserted Central Catheters (PICCs)
Authors: Xu Jia , Castillo Renan C. , Zare Hossein , Chiu Herng-Chia , Yan Xia
Published: February 2025

Peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs) play a crucial role in providing long-term intravenous therapy for patients requiring extended vascular access. With multiple PICC types available, understanding their cost-effectiveness is essential for healthcare decisions that balance clinical benefits with economic considerations. This study assesses the economic and clinical outcomes of chlorhexidine-coated PICCs (Type A) versus standard PICCs (Type B), aiming to guide best practices in vascular access by addressing the gap in comprehensive cost-effectiveness comparisons. Using a decision-analytic model, costs and quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) between the two types were compared. Primary data from five Chinese university-affiliated medical centers were gathered from 2020 to 2023, with a Delphi panel validating the model inputs. The analysis revealed that while Type A PICCs offer lower initial placement costs, they incur higher complication rates compared to Type B PICCs, which influences long-term cost-effectiveness. After adjusting for complication rates and QALYs, Type B PICCs emerged as more cost-effective over a one-year period, with an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) of ¥-40,043.78 ($5,905.90, average exchange rate ¥678.03=$100) per QALY gained. Although Type B PICCs have higher initial costs, their lower complication rates make them a more valuable option for long-term vascular access, offering better overall cost-efficiency.
Promotion on the Legal Framework and Its Practice for the Normative Development of Generative AI in China –Focused on the Relevant Clauses of China’s Interim Measures for the Administration of Generative AI Services
Authors: Chen Bing
Published: February 2025

Nowadays, generative AI technologies and services have entered a stage of explosive growth worldwide. While generative AI brings technological progress and productivity enhancement to the economy, it also raises various risks regarding legal, the ethics of science and technology, and social governance. For the development of AI, the EU adopts a strict regulatory attitude based on the rule of law. It constructs AI norms by unifying the regulations and coordinating regulatory agencies. The United States, on the other hand, adopts a principled and advocacy regulatory strategy. It clarifies the compliance requirements for enterprises with concerns about their autonomy. While the UK only claims the principles that are not mandatory, which is a compromise regulatory approach. Based on the practical needs of China's participation in the international AI competition and comparison among foreign experience, the rule of law of generative AI should rest on the interactions between technology and law, and the balance between development and security. Additionally, it should establish requirements for security, reliability, and controllability for the standardized development of AI within the legal framework. To this end, it is necessary to strengthen the supply of relevant policies and systems, establish a diversified and long-term regulatory mechanism as soon as possible, and set standardized and unified responsibility rules. Sequentially, to establish a full-cycle, systematic, and three-dimensional practice framework of the rule of law, thereby ensuring the robust and normalized development of generative AI, while firmly maintaining safety as the baseline.
Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), Sustainability and ESG Standards Used by ATHEX ESG Index Listed Companies
Authors: Papafloratos Triantafyllos , Fragidis Garyfallos
Published: February 2025

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and Sustainability have proliferated the corporate boardroom agenda and companies’ leadership teams are trying to find ways to improve their social and environmental performance and enhance their corporate governance management systems. This paper investigates the main CSR and sustainability-related standards that modern corporations use. To do so, it uses a sample of the 60 companies listed in ATHEX ESG Index. Firstly, a content analysis of those companies’ sustainability reports is conducted. The 60 companies are categorized in sectors according to the Global Industry Classification Standard (GICS). The sustainability standards used by each sector are grouped into four categories namely environmental; social; governance and reporting. Furthermore, an attempt is made to establish a link between the standards used and both the sectors they belong to and the material topics of each sector as they emerge from each company’s materiality analysis. Our research shows that our sample companies predominantly utilize reporting standards regardless of their sector. We did not establish a definitive relation between the prioritized material topics and the relative standards employed by the companies. We may have recognized certain pairings such as environmental material topics with relative environmental management systems, but not in a rigid manner or across all material topic categories.
Construir aprendizaje al ritmo de la realidad social: el Derecho Fundamental a la Protección de Datos a través de casos, simulaciones y proyectos
Authors: Sánchez Barroso Borja
Published: February 2025

El artículo describe el proyecto de innovación docente llevado a cabo en la Universidad Católica de Valencia enfocado a impartir la asignatura “Derecho de las Tecnologías de la Información y de la Comunicación”.El proyecto utiliza tres metodologías: método del caso o resolución de problemas, simulación y aprendizaje por proyectos. Los estudiantes trabajan en grupos simulando despachos de abogados, resolviendo casos prácticos relacionados con la protección de datos y otros derechos tecnológicos. Además, desarrollan una página web para consolidar sus conocimientos. Los resultados muestran una mejora significativa en el aprendizaje y la motivación de los alumnos.
Ciudadanía activa por la memoria y justicia de las víctimas del terrorismo: una experiencia de innovación docente en el ámbito de la educación superior.
Authors: Vivancos Comes Mariano
Published: February 2025

En las últimas décadas, las universidades españolas han avanzado en la integración de la memoria de las víctimas del terrorismo, abordando un vacío histórico. El presente artículo describe un proyecto integral liderado por la Universitat de València que, con un enfoque interdisciplinar, combina la actualización de planes de estudio, metodologías participativas y el desarrollo de competencias críticas en estudiantes sobre la materia. Se aprovecha de la alianza entre instituciones académicas y el liderazgo civil permitiendo más allá de la visibilidad de las víctimas, avanzar en la consecución de su triple programa (memoria, dignidad y justicia) promoviendo, a su vez, los valores de la convivencia democrática y la educación cívica entre los estudiantes de la educación superior.
Efecto de (Fe)-biochar de tarwi (Lupinus mutabilis Sweet.) sobre la biodisponibilidad de As en suelo de mina de Santa Rosa de Cata, Coayllo-Cañete
Authors:   , Huanaco Ccosccoa Eduardo Huillca
Published: February 2025

El objetivo de esta investigación fue evaluar el efecto de (Fe)-biochar de tarwi sobre la biodisponibilidad de arsénico (As) en suelo de mina de Santa Rosa de Cata del distrito de Coayllo-Cañete, Lima, usando lechuga (Lactuca sativa L.) como bioindicadora. Para ello, se estableció un diseño experimental de bloques completamente al azar que consistió en un sistema suelo-planta y biochar (10%, v/v) en cinco tratamientos: control (C), biochar de cascarilla (Bc), biochar de tallo (Bt), Bc con hierro (Fe-Bc) y Bt con hierro (Fe-Bt). De esta manera, al principio se determinó las propiedades fisicoquímicas del suelo y los biochar; posteriormente, se evaluó los efectos de las enmiendas sobre los parámetros del medio; por último, se evaluó la biodisponibilidad As a través del factor translocación (FT) de las lechugas. Los resultados indicaron que (Fe)-biochar no tuvo efecto sobre la biodisponibilidad de As, en todos los tratamientos el FT resultó cero; además, no se detectaron concentraciones de este metaloide por encima de 12 mg.kg-1 en los tejidos vegetales. Esta baja biodisponibilidad del As pudo deberse a que los biochar inmovilizaran el As; por otra parte, también al gran contenido de óxidos metálicos de hierro, aluminio, y manganeso, así como, el pH neutro y bajo porcentaje de materia orgánica (Mo%) que presentó el suelo de mina de Santa Rosa de Cata. Por otra parte, los tratamientos Bt y Bc permitieron un buen desarrollo vegetal, lo cual pudo deberse a que estas enmiendas presentaron valores medio-alto de ceniza (Ash%) y carbono fijo (CF) que influyeron en mejores efectos sobre los parámetros del suelo (pH, CE, Mo% y CIC) y una mejor adsorción de metales y metaloides...
Deep Learning–Assisted Multiobjective Optimization of Geological CO2 Storage Performance under Geomechanical Risks
Authors: Zheng Fangning , Ma Martin , Viswanathan Hari , Pawar Rajesh , Jha Birendra , Chen Bailian
Published: February 2025

In geological CO2 storage, designing the optimal well control strategy for CO2 injection to maximize CO2 storage while minimizing the associated geomechanical risks is not trivial. This challenge arises due to pressure buildup, CO2 plume migration, the highly nonlinear nature of geomechanical responses to rock-fluid interaction, and the high computational cost associated with coupled flow and geomechanics simulations. In this paper, we introduce a novel optimization framework to address these challenges. The optimization problem is formulated as follows: maximize total CO2 storage while minimizing geomechanical risks by adjusting the injection schedules within bounded constraints. The geomechanical risks are primarily driven by injection-induced pressure build-up, which is characterized by ground displacement and the induced microseismicity. We used the Fourier neural operator (FNO)-based deep learning model to construct surrogate models, replacing the time-consuming coupled flow and geomechanics simulations for evaluating the aforementioned objective functions. The developed surrogate models have been incorporated into a multiobjective optimization framework through a genetic algorithm to reduce the computational burden. The proposed optimization framework reduces the computational cost from approximately 2,400 hours, when using objective function evaluations based on physics-based simulations, to around 20 minutes. A set of Pareto-optimal solutions of the proposed workflow yields nontrivial optimal decisions, reducing the microseismicity potential and the vertical displacement. This Pareto front highlights the optimal trade-offs between CO2 storage amount, safety, and ground displacement, emphasizing the need for careful optimization and management of injection strategies to achieve a balanced outcome. The novelty of this work is twofold. First, we demonstrate the importance of incorporating the minimization of the geomechanical risks as objective functions into the CO2 storage optimization workflow to mitigate the potential risk of induced microseismicity and ground displacement. Second, we leverage the FNO-based surrogate models to optimize a real-field CO2 storage operation.
Distributed multi-parameter quantum metrology with a superconducting quantum network
Authors: Yuan Haidong , Zhang Jiajian , Wang Lingna , Hai Yong-Ju , Zhang Jiawei , Ji Chu , Jiang Ji , Huang Wenhui , Liang Yongqi , Qiu Jiawei , Sun Xuandong , Tao Ziyu , Zhang Libo , Zhou Yuxuan , Chen Yuanzhen , Guo Weijie , Lingpeng Xiayu , Liu Song , Ren Wenhui , Niu Jingjing , Zhong Youpeng , Yu Dapeng
Published: February 2025

Quantum metrology has emerged as a powerful tool for timekeeping, field sensing, and precision measurements within fundamental physics. With the advent of distributed quantum metrology, its capabilities have been extended to probing spatially distributed parameters across networked quantum systems. However, generating the necessary non-local entanglement remains a significant challenge, and the inherent incompatibility in multi-parameter quantum estimation affects ultimate performance. Here we use a superconducting quantum network with low-loss interconnects to estimate multiple distributed parameters associated with non-commuting generators. By employing high-fidelity non-local entanglement across network nodes and a sequential control strategy, we accurately estimate remote vector fields and their gradients. Our approach achieves an improvement of up to 6.86 dB over classical strategy for estimating all three components of a remote vector field in terms of standard deviation. Moreover, for the estimation of gradients along two distinct directions across distributed vector fields, our distributed strategy, which utilizes non-local entanglement, outperforms local entanglement strategies, leading to a 3.44 dB reduction in the sum of variances.
Advancing Molecular Insights: A Global Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Epidemiology and Drug Resistance Patterns of Mycobacterium tuberculosis in Sputum Samples
Authors: Bohara Madan Singh , Bhatta Dwij Raj
Published: February 2025

Background
Tuberculosis (TB), caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb), remains a leading cause of morbidity and mortality globally. The emergence of multidrug-resistant (MDR-TB) and extensively drug-resistant TB (XDR-TB) presents significant challenges for TB control. Molecular diagnostics and epidemiological studies provide critical insights into the genetic diversity and drug resistance of Mtb, yet regional variability and fragmented data complicate global understanding.
Materials & Methods
Following PRISMA guidelines, a systematic search of PubMed, Google Scholar, and ScienceDirect identified peer-reviewed articles published between 2018 and 2023. Thirteen studies met the inclusion criteria, encompassing 3469 isolates from diverse regions. Key variables included drug resistance patterns, phylogenetic lineages, and demographic data. Statistical analyses included meta-analysis of proportions, heterogeneity assessments, and publication bias evaluation.
Findings:
MDR-TB prevalence ranged from 1.5% in Kenya and Mexico to 34.4% in India. Resistance to rifampicin and isoniazid showed pooled prevalence rates of 2.9% and 6.2%, respectively, with significant geographical variability. Phylogenetic analyses revealed distinct lineage distributions: lineage 3 predominated in India, lineage 2 was prevalent in China, and lineage 4 dominated in Ethiopia and Ghana. Age and gender analysis indicated a higher proportion of male TB patients, with significant variability across studies.
Conclusion
This study highlights the global heterogeneity in TB drug resistance and genetic diversity. Tailored regional strategies, informed by molecular epidemiology, are essential to address the rising threat of MDR-TB and enhance TB control efforts.
Constraining the rheology of the lower mantle with the global trend in slab sinking
Authors: Spakman Wim , Čížková Hana , Cordier Patrick
Published: February 2025

The rheology of Earth’s lower mantle plays a crucial role in shaping mantle convection and consequently in planetary evolution but is still under debate1. Propositions differ on the rheology of ferropericlase, whether it is stronger2 or weaker than bridgmanite1,3,4, the majority phase, but especially also on the mechanism by which bridgmanite deforms, either by pure diffusion creep1,5-7 or by pure dislocation climb2,8-10, or possibly in combination. Here we put the pure climb creep rheology to practice in mantle convection experiments with a novel focus on the role of atomic self-diffusion which is pivotal for the effectiveness in mantle convection of both diffusion creep and pure climb creep. From flow models that achieve a close fit to the inferred trend in slab sinking11, we introduce new constraints on the coefficient of self-diffusion. From this we show that pure climb creep prevails over diffusion creep in high-stress regions where the lower mantle deforms most strongly, i.e., ambient to sinking slabs and rising plumes, at last providing more clarity on the rheology of the lower mantle. An immediate implication is that the supposed ancient bridgmanite-enrichment below ~1000 km12,13 can only have survived in low-stress regions remote from sinking slabs and rising plumes and is subordinate for the style of mantle convection. The stress-dependence of pure climb creep leads to a dynamic viscosity field, a propensity for localization of flow in high-stress regions and fast plume ascent. Flow speeds are 1-2 cm/a ambient to sinking slabs and rising plumes and sub-cm/a flow elsewhere. In all, this predicts a much different dynamic role of the lower mantle than modelled so far in the investigating of Earth and rocky planets alike.
Tamarind Kernel Gum based superabsorbent polymer composite preparation and investigation of properties
Authors: Sharma Anju , Sand Arpit
Published: February 2025

In this paper, the preparation of a super absorbent polymer from bio-based monomer by free radical polymerization of tamarind kernel gum (TKG), itaconic acid (IA) in presence of kaolin powder with potassium persulfate (KPS) as reaction initiator and n-methylenebisacrylamide (n-MBA) as a cross-linker has been done. The reaction depends on the concentration of following variables like initiator, monomer, cross-linker, and kaolin. The optimization of swelling behaviour was done. In situ polymerization, hydrophilicity, stability and release kinetics were analysed. The FTIR gave the chemical composition by identifying functional group of the product structure by indicating specific frequency on Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy. TGA was performed to investigate the weight loss to observe the thermal stability of synthesized superabsorbent polymer composite. The linkage of kaolin-organic monomer was seen at an absorption band of 2924 cm− 1 in the composite spectrum. The swelling behaviour measurements were analysed in diluted salt solution as well. It was observed that on increasing the concentration of n-MBA and kaolin the swelling capacity decreased. The swelling behaviour was also studied by varying pH to observe the response of composite towards pH. Swelling-Deswelling pulsation behaviour was recorded at pH 2 and 12. The swelling kinetics of synthesised composites with various porous sizes was also researched. Such characteristics make these smart materials suitable for several technological applications.
Intensive grassland management and drought amplify pathways of energy flux in soil food webs
Authors: Caruso Tancredi , Chomel Mathilde , Lavallee Jocelyn , Segura Nil Alvarez , de Castro Francisco , Magilton Matthew , Clemente Giulio , Garlaschelli Diego , Rhymes Jennifer , Baggs Elizabeth , de Vries Franciska , Emmerson Mark , Johnson David , Bardgett Richard
Published: February 2025

Soil food webs contribute significantly to ecosystem energy (carbon) fluxes, but how energy flow through them is affected by both intensification of land management and extreme climatic events, such as drought, is poorly understood. Here, we quantified in situ the energetics and stability of soil food webs under experimental drought across a range grasslands in the United Kingdom with contrasting management intensity. Over the short term of a growing season and a wide range of environmental conditions, drought increased food web energy fluxes and respiration resulting in more unpredictable distribution of fluxes. Intensive grassland management similarly increased energy fluxes and total ecosystem respiration. Our statistical modelling confirmed that the changes observed in soil food web energy fluxes under drought and intensive management trigger an increase in ecosystem respiration mediated by decreased predictability in the distribution of the soil food web energy fluxes. The latter was also linked to reduced population level return time, likely caused by the recovery of metabolically faster components of the food webs such as bacteria. The study thus shed lights on how land use intensification combined with climate change alters pathways of below-ground energy flux and processes that may cause net emissions of C from soil
Lipidated macrocyclic peptide S-880008 as a broad-spectrum SARS-CoV-2 fusion inhibitor
Authors: Sanaki Takao , Kawaguchi Yoshimasa , Anraku Yuki , Kusumoto Yoshifumi , Sato Akihiko , Toba Shinsuke , Taniguchi Keiichi , Yamamoto Atsuko , Maruyama Yuki , Miyamoto Tadashi , Arita Shuhei , Natsume Yuka , Morita Hirotoshi , Mayumi Kei , Haruna Takayo , Izawa Masaaki , Kita Shunsuke , Sasaki Michihito , Orba Yasuko , Hashiguchi Takao , Sawa Hirofumi , Mikamiyama Hidenori , Shishido Takao , Maenaka Katsumi
Published: February 2025

Coronavirus disease 2019, caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), remains a threat to public health and the economy. Although several SARS-CoV-2 vaccines exist, they have failed to elicit effective neutralizing antibody responses against emerging SARS-CoV-2 variants harboring spike protein mutations. Moreover, while certain neutralizing-antibody-based therapies were effective in the early stages of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, their performance declined with the emergence of spike protein mutations. Thus, it is essential to develop antiviral agents that inhibit the early stages of viral infection by effectively targeting spike protein mutants. Broad-spectrum anti-SARS-CoV-2 activity relies on the targeting of conserved sites within the spike protein. Herein, we used mRNA display screening and chemical modification to generate S-880008, a lipid-modified macrocyclic peptide. S-880008 exhibited efficacy against a broad range of SARS-CoV-2 (including Omicron) variants and inhibited SARS-CoV-2 fusion rather than attachment via a novel mechanism. Cryo-electron microscopy analysis revealed that, unexpectedly, S-880008 simultaneously recognized the vulnerable sites of both the interface between the receptor-binding domain (RBD) and subdomain 1 (via the macrocyclic peptide portion) and the N-terminal domain of the adjacent protomer (via the acyl chain) to enforce a RBD 3-up conformation. The results of the structure-activity relationship experiments with S-880008 derivatives supported the notion that S-880008 binding inhibited fusion by suppressing protomer dissociation. Crucially, the intranasal administration of S-880008 to mouse-adapted SARS-CoV-2-infected mice significantly reduced the viral titer in lung homogenates and improved survival rates in a dose-dependent manner. Our findings show that S-880008 has the potential to overcome the increasing threat posed by emerging SARS-CoV-2 variants, providing a rationale for the design of a broad range of antiviral fusion inhibitors.
Redefining Early Osteoarthritis Detection: Deep Learning Meets Historical Radiography
Authors: Majumder Rifatul Islam
Published: February 2025

The Kellgren-Lawrence (KL) grading system, established by Lawrence and Aitken Swan [1] and Kellgren and Lawrence [2] in the early 1950s, remains the clinical standard for radiographic osteoarthritis (OA) classification despite well‐documented inter‐ and intra‐observer variability [3-6]. Early studies revealed that occupational factors, particularly in coal miners, are strongly associated with knee OA [1,2]. However, subsequent research has highlighted that, over reliance on osteophytes, ambiguous criterion especially for KL Grade 1 (doubtful OA) lead to diagnostic uncertainty [3-6]. Comparative evaluations of multiple radiographic scoring systems based on joint space narrowing (JSN) and osteophyte formation [7-10] have further underscored limited sensitivity of the KL system to early cartilage damage and inconsistent reproducibility [11-16].
A Direct Primary Motor Cortex-Globus Pallidus Internus Circuit Regulates Both Motor and Non-Motor Symptoms in Parkinson's Disease.
Authors: Wang Yong , Li Yaqian , Zhang Xueping , Zheng Ruobing , Wang Qianwen , Liu Zikang , Li Derong
Published: February 2025

The cortico-basal ganglia (BG) circuit is vital for motor control and Parkinson's disease (PD) symptoms. The Globus Pallidus Internus (GPi) is a principal BG output nucleus and a key target for Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) in PD treatment. However, the structure and function of the cortico-GPi circuit have not been completely addressed. In the present studies, data demonstrate a direct Primary Motor Cortex (M1)-GPi pathway, bypassing the classical direct, indirect, and hyperdirect pathways. This direct M1-GPi pathway plays an essential role in motor regulation under normal conditions. Importantly, in PD, post-synaptic inhibition of this pathway alleviates motor deficits. Post-synaptic activation of the M1-GPi pathway ameliorates depression symptoms associated with PD but exacerbates the PD motor symptoms. Interventions targeting the pre-synaptic M1-GPi pathway do not significantly affect motor regulation or PD symptoms. It suggests that the M1-GPi pathway may play a crucial role in motor regulation, PD motor symptoms and non-motor symptoms. Aberrant activities of the post-synaptic M1-GPi pathway potentially contributing to PD deficits. And the mechanism of GPi-DBS in PD therapy may involve post-synaptic regulation of M1-GPi pathway activities, rather than the retrograde modulation of pre-synaptic M1-GPi pathways.