bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fabrication of the Plant Extract Loaded Antimicrobial Nanofiber for Biofilm Associated Infections
Authors: Erdoğmuş Sevim Feyza , Sarikurkcu Cengiz , Yilmaz Mustafa Abdullah
Published: February 2025

This study aims to determine the chemical composition of Stachys tmolea and to assess its antimicrobial potential for biomedical applications. The 53 phytochemicals of Stachys tmolea were elucidated by liquid chromatography–electrospray tandem mass spectrometry. The rich phytochemical profile of Stachys tmolea highlights the prevalence of quinic acid, chlorogenic acid, and cosmosiin in the plant's methanol extract. The electrospinning technique was used to obtain polycaprolactone/chitosan/sericin nanofibers. The nanofiber structure is characterized by SEM, XRD, FITR, and TGA. The highest antimicrobial activity (19 ± 1.00) was found in 100 mg/mL of plant extract against Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923 and was evaluated as susceptible. Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923 and Listeria monocytogenes ATCC 1911 were found to be sensitive to plant extract loaded nanofiber. Antibiofilm test results revealed that the most effective group was determined as 2 x MIC of the plant extract (72% inhibition) for biofilm inhibition of Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923.
Investigating the Antimicrobial, Antidiabetes, and Antioxidant Potential of Hydroxyl‐Containing Schiff Bases, In Vitro, and Computational Studies
Authors: Adeleke Adesola A. , Oladipo Segun D. , Luckay Robert C. , Akintemi Eric Oluwafisayo , Olofinsan Kolawole A. , Yussuf Sodiq T. , Ademosu Damilare D.
Published: February 2025

Four azomethine compounds (L1–L4) derived from the reaction of p‐hydroxybenzaldehyde and various primary amines are reported herein. Various analytical and spectroscopic techniques were employed to characterize the synthesized compounds. The antidiabetic properties of L1–L4 were evaluated by exploring α‐amylase and α‐glucosidase assays, where L2 and L3 displayed good antidiabetic properties with an IC50 values of 0.06 and 0.03 mg/ml for the α‐amylase assay, respectively, better than the acarbose (standard drug) with IC50 value of 0.08 mg/ml. With the exception of L4, the antioxidant activity of L1–L4 showed good nitric oxide radical scavenging capacity and their significant DPPH free radical scavenging ability. The antibacterial activities of the compounds are dose‐dependent, and compounds L1 and L2 showed notable activities. Computational studies of L1–L4 using density functional theory and the molecular docking methods indicated that L2 had an energy gap of 7.10 eV, making it the least reactive, while L3 had an energy gap of 6.52 eV, making it the most chemically reactive.
Harnessing of Carboxymethylated Rice Straw Biowaste as Anionic Adsorbent for Cationic Dye: Isotherm, Kinetics, Thermodynamics, and Reaction Mechanism
Authors: Mostafa Khaled M. , El‐Sanabary Azza A.
Published: February 2025

Rice straw (RS) biowaste was turned into a high‐performance anionic adsorbent for basic red 46 (cationic dye) by treating it with monochloroacetic acid via carboxymethylation utilizing a microwave heating method. For this objective, five levels of carboxymethylated RS (CMRS) with varying degrees of carboxymethylation expressed as carboxyl content, denoted as (CMRS‐I to CMRS‐V), were synthesized and characterized using FTIR, SEM, XRD, zeta potential, and BET analysis. Different parameters impacting cationic dye adsorption represented as adsorption capacities, such as pH, carboxymethylation extent, treatment duration, and cationic dye and RS concentrations, were thoroughly investigated. Various kinetic models (pseudo‐first‐order and pseudo‐second‐order), isothermal (Langmuir, Freundlich, and Temkin), and thermodynamic investigations were used. The results demonstrated that (a) FTIR, SEM, XRD, zeta potential, and BET analysis confirmed the formation of carboxyl groups onto the CMRS; (b) the adsorption capacity increased by increasing the pH value from 1 to 10, the extent of carboxymethylation from 37.9 to 189.7 meq‐COOH/100 g sample, cationic dye concentration from 10 to 100 mg/L, and the adsorption time up to 180 min then leveled off afterward; (c) maximum adsorption capacity was determined to be 31.2 mg/g at pH 10, 50 mg/L dye concentration, 180 min adsorption period, and 0.1 g adsorbent; and (d) kinetic and isothermal experiments demonstrated the superiority of the pseudo‐second‐order rate equation and Langmuir model with higher R2 values. The computed thermodynamic characteristics showed that the adsorption process was feasible, spontaneous, and exothermic at 298–318 K. Finally, a comparison with other adsorbents, regeneration, and adsorption mechanisms has been proposed.
Improving the Performance of Copper‐Based Metal‐Organic Decomposition Inks Modified with Copper‐Coated Carbon Nanotubes
Authors: Zhang Lei , Yang Kenan , Xue Daodao , Zhou Shisheng
Published: February 2025

Copper ink is inexpensive but easily oxidized, often requiring high‐temperature sintering and reducing atmosphere. However, high temperatures and reducing atmospheres should be avoided in practical applications. In this study, electroless copper‐coated CNTs (Cu‐CNTs) with high mechanical strength, high conductivity, and oxidation resistance are used as conductive fillers. Isooctylamine and 2‐amino‐2‐methyl‐1‐propanol (AMP) are used as complex agents. A copper‐based metal‐organic decomposition (Cu MOD) ink that can be sintered quickly and at low temperature in an air atmosphere is successfully prepared. The Cu‐CNTs uniformly dispersed in the Cu MOD ink act as heterogeneous nucleation sites, not only facilitating the nucleation and growth of copper nanoparticles but also serving as bridges to link the newly formed copper nanoparticles together. The densification, uniformity and mechanical stability of the conductive pattern are significantly improved. Notably, when the Cu‐CNTs content is 0.25 wt.%, the densification, conductivity, and mechanical stability of the cured patterns are maximally improved. The resistivity of the Cu‐CNTs‐0.25 wt.% conductive pattern is as low as 30 × 10−5 Ω·cm. After 1000 bending cycles, the relative resistance (R/R0) of the conductive pattern only increased to 3.4. Due to its excellent conductivity and mechanical stability, it holds significant potential for application in low‐cost flexible printed electronic devices.
Visible‐Light‐Induced Catalyzed C─H/N─H Cross Coupling of Quinoxalin‐2(1H)‐ones with Aliphatic Amines Using Mesoporous Graphitic Carbon Nitride
Authors: Lin Xueying , Fan Congxuan , Cai Mushou , Song Guangliang , Zhu Hongjun
Published: February 2025

In this study, we report a visible‐light‐induced catalyzed C─H/N─H cross coupling of quinoxalin‐2(1H)‐ones with aliphatic amines using DABCO (1,4‐diazabicyclo[2.2.2]octane) assisted mpg‐C3N4 (mesoporous graphitic carbon nitride). This reaction yields 3‐aminoquinoxalin‐2(1H)‐ones in moderate to high yields under room temperature conditions in tetrahydrofuran as solvent and O2 as the sole oxidant. This method displays a good functional group tolerance, requires mild reaction conditions, and enables easy recovery and reuse of the photocatalyst (4 recycles). This pathway to amination, which is predicated upon the use of DABCO as both a base and an electron transfer agent, reveals through a preliminary mechanistic investigation that the reaction involves a radical process.
Small Molecular Organic Hole Transport Layer for Efficient Inverted Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Ahmmed Shamim , Karim Md. Abdul , He Yulu , Cao Siliang , Kayesh Md. Emrul , Matsuishi Kiyoto , Islam Ashraful
Published: February 2025

To commercialize perovskite solar cells (PSCs), it is crucial to develop cost‐effective, dopant‐free hole transport layers (HTLs) that can be processed at low temperatures. Herein, a dopant‐free small molecular material 4,4′,4′‐Tris[2‐naphthyl(phenyl)amino]triphenylamine (2TNATA) was utilized in inverted PSCs as a HTL. The position of the highest occupied molecular orbital energy of 2TNATA is properly aligned with the perovskite valence band maximum. Moreover, 2TNATA can be processed at lower temperatures and shows excellent thermal stability. The lead (Pb) perovskite on 2TNATA exhibited superior crystallinity and morphology compared to the perovskite on poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene) polystyrene sulfonate (PEDOT:PSS) and poly[bis(4‐phenyl)(2,4,6‐trimethylphenyl)amine] (PTAA). Furthermore, the carrier kinetics in 2TNATA‐based PSCs was superior to PTAA and PEDOT:PSS‐based PSCs. Consequently, an outstanding power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 20.58% was observed from the 2TNATA HTL‐based 0.09 cm2 PSCs, while PTAA and PEDOT:PSS HTLs‐based 0.09 cm2 PSCs showed PCE of 19.36% and 14.35%, respectively. Moreover, the 2TNATA HTL‐based 1.0 cm2 PSCs demonstrated an impressive PCE of 20.04%. The results indicate that 2TNATA might be a promising HTL for the inexpensive and efficient inverted PSCs.
Development and Validation of a Highly Sensitive LC‐MS/MS Method for Quantification of Mutagenic N‐Nitroso Desmethyl Citalopram in Drug Formulations
Authors: Vallamkonda Bhaskar , Yarguntla Srinivasa Rao , Challa Ranadheer Reddy
Published: February 2025

The global pharmaceutical industry is presently apprehensive about nitrosamine impurities and nitrosamine drug substance‐related impurities (NDSRIs), which are known as human mutagens. Citalopram, a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor, ranks among the most frequently prescribed antidepressants worldwide. It is a primary medicine utilized for the treatment of depression. Based on a theoretical assessment of the structure of Citalopram for the potential formation of an NDSRI, it was determined that it can indeed form an NDSRI, namely N‐Nitroso Desmethyl Citalopram. The Carcinogenic Potency Category Assessment indicates that the impurity is classified as carcinogenic Category 1, with an acceptable intake limit of 26.5 ng per day (ng/day). Due to their elevated cancer risk, a very sensitive quantitative method is essential. An LC‐MS/MS method was established for quantification utilizing a Poroshell StableBond‐C18 column with dimensions of 150 (length) × 4.6 (internal diameter) mm and a particle size of 2.7 µm, with the column temperature maintained at 30°C. A 50 mM formic acid buffer and acetonitrile are employed in a 50:50 v/v ratio, with a flow rate of 0.5 mL/min in isocratic mode for peak elution. A multiple reaction monitoring program, MRM, was employed in mass spectrometry, utilizing three product ions at m/z 291.1 (quantifier), 138, and 263.1 (qualifier) with electrospray ionization mode. The LC‐MS/MS method was validated in accordance with regulatory criteria and deemed appropriate for its intended application. The employed approach is a highly sensitive analytical technology that will assist the scientific community by offering insights into the mutagenic impurity levels in citalopram drug formulations.
Humidity‐Enhanced NO2 Gas Sensing Using Atomically Sharp Edges in Multilayer MoS2
Authors: Agrawal Abhay V. , Polyakov Alexander Yu. , Eriksson Jens , Antosiewicz Tomasz J. , Shegai Timur O.
Published: February 2025

Ambient humidity poses a significant challenge in the development of practical room‐temperature NO2 gas sensors. Herein, atomically precise zigzag edges are employed in multilayer MoS2, fabricated using electron beam lithography and anisotropic wet etching, to achieve highly sensitive and selective gas‐sensing performance, that is, humidity‐tolerant at elevated temperatures and humidity‐enhanced at room temperature under ultraviolet illumination. Notably, exposure to 2.5 parts per billion (ppb) NO2 at 70% relative humidity under ultraviolet illumination and at room temperature resulted in a 33‐fold increase in response and a 6‐fold faster recovery compared to 0% relative humidity, leading to response values exceeding 1100%. The optimized samples demonstrate a theoretical detection limit ranging from 4 to 400 parts per trillion (ppt) NO2. The enhanced NO2 sensing capabilities of MoS2 edges have been further confirmed through first‐principles calculations. This study expands the applications of nanostructured MoS2 and highlights its potential for detecting NO2 at sub‐ppb levels in complex scenarios, such as high‐humidity conditions.
Surface treating and hybridizing short carbon fibers: toward reinforcement of cementitious composites
Authors: Ghamarpoor Reza , Jamshidi Masoud , Zojaji Koosha
Published: February 2025

The aim of this work was inducing enhanced flexural properties to high‐strength but brittle short carbon fiber reinforced cementitious composites (SCFRCCs). PVA and PP fibers are used as hybrids with carbon fiber (CF) in the cementitious composite. Their deformation capability under stress was considered as an effective method for improving the flexural properties of SCFRCCs. It was found that by increment in the CFs length (from 3 to 6 mm) and concentration (0.8–2 vol%), the flexural strength and toughness enhanced by 32%, 142%, 53%, and 480%, respectively. Surface treatment of CFs by acetone caused 34% decrement in the pullout strength but 29% and 43% enhancement in the flexural strength and toughness of the composites, respectively. Hybridizing CFs and trilobal PP fibers caused achievement of significant flexural performances and 88% increment in flexural toughness compared to the acetone‐treated CF containing composite.
Experimental and theoretical analysis of PVC‐CFRP confined steel reinforced concrete columns under axial compressive load
Authors: Tao Qinglin , Zhang Yi , Guan Yongying , Kong Jiong , Gao Zhijie , Kong Zhengyi
Published: February 2025

The PVC‐CFRP confined steel reinforced concrete (PCSRC) is a composite structure formed by embedding steel inside PVC‐FRP pipes and pouring concrete. It boasts advantages such as high bearing capacity, corrosion resistance, and the ability to withstand substantial plastic deformation. The PVC‐FRP pipe is created by intermittently winding CFRP strips on the surface of a PVC pipe. To investigate the mechanical properties of PCSRC in short columns, 10 specimens under axial compression, varying different parameters including section diameter, steel content, yield strength of H‐shaped steel, CFRP strip spacing, and concrete strength are designed. The test results revealed that the primary damage modes observed are PVC tube bursting and CFRP strips rupturing. The ultimate bearing capacity of the specimens increased with larger section diameters, higher concrete strength, increased yield strength of H‐shaped steel, greater steel content, and narrower CFRP strip spacing. Moreover, as the concrete strength increases, the rate of degradation in axial compressive rigidity also accelerates, while the other parameters have relatively minor influences. Based on these experimental findings, a theoretical formula to predict the strength of PCSRC under axial compression is developed, and it aligns well with the experimental results.
Survey on Kampo formulas frequently prescribed by physicians belonging to the Japanese Society for Oriental Medicine
Authors: Tahara Eiichi , Uneda Kazushi , Mori Masayuki , Kaneko Akira , Mitsuma Tadamichi , Tanikawa Kiyoaki
Published: February 2025

Aim

We conducted a web‐based survey of physician members of the Japan Society for Oriental Medicine (JSOM) to investigate trends in Kampo formulas prescribed by Kampo specialists.

Methods

JSOM physician members were surveyed using Microsoft Forms from December 1, 2022 to January 27, 2023. Respondents subjectively ranked their top five Kampo formulas, commenting on each formula.

Results

There were 475 respondents, representing 6.4% of all JSOM members. The respondents had similar sex and age distributions and affiliation regions to all JSOM members. The most common Western medicine specialty of the respondents was internal medicine (13.3%), followed by obstetrics and gynecology (12.2%) and gastroenterology (6.9%). In total, 284 (59.8%) respondents were licensed as board‐certified physicians of the JSOM and 107 (22.5%) had more than 30 years of experience in prescribing Kampo formulas. The Kampo formulas were prescribed as extracts by 360 (75.8%) respondents, whereas only 115 (24.2%) prescribed decoctions. The most frequently used Kampo formula was goreisan, followed by hochuekkito, keishibukuryogan, kamishoyosan, and hachimijiogan. Several commonly used Kampo formulas supported by scientific evidence, including daikenchuto, goshajinkigan, and bofutsushosan, were ranked low in our survey. In addition, differences among respondents in sex, age distribution, affiliated regions, Western medicine specialties, and proficiency in Kampo medicine influenced the trends in frequently prescribed Kampo formulas.

Conclusion

Our study identified the most frequently prescribed Kampo formulas among physician members of the JSOM. They selected Kampo formulas with diverse pharmacological properties to treat imbalances in qi, blood, and fluids. Kampo decoctions were rarely used, even by specialists.
Exome‐wide molecular insights from blood and urine liquid biopsies in genitourinary cancers
Authors: Jia Eric , Zheng Tiantian , Huang Yong , Du Pan
Published: February 2025

Background

Liquid biopsy has emerged as a non‐invasive method for real‐time cancer monitoring especially in genitourinary (GU) oncology. Most current studies utilize a panel‐based molecular profiling ranging from 50–600 genes; however, a comprehensive exome‐wide profiling of real‐world patient samples has been lacking.

Methods

Over 2000 liquid biopsy samples were analyzed in this study, including urine samples from early‐stage bladder cancer and plasma samples from prostate, lung, breast, esophageal, head and neck cancers, among others. Cell‐free DNA (cfDNA) was extracted from these samples and analyzed using PredicineWES+™, a boosted comprehensive whole‐exome sequencing (WES) assay with an in‐depth coverage of 600 cancer‐related genes derived from the PredicineATLAS™ panel. Data analysis was conducted in‐house using Predicine's DeepSea bioinformatics software.

Results

The PredicineWES+™ assay demonstrated high sensitivity for detecting somatic mutations across the exome and showed comparable tumor mutational burden (TMB) estimates with the PredicineATLAS™ panel. Interestingly, the highest tumor TMB score was observed in bladder cancer among the analyzed cancers, which is consistent with literature using tissue‐based genomic profiling. The most common cancer variants include TP53, ERBB2, KRAS, PIK3CA, FGFR3, APC, among others.

Conclusion

Liquid biopsy‐based genomic profiling across various cancer types provides an in‐depth analysis of biomarker discovery for personalized cancer care, setting the foundation for improved cancer diagnosis and personalized treatment strategies for urological diseases.
Testosterone and men's health: An in‐depth exploration of their relationship
Authors: Yassin Aksam , Al‐Zoubi Raed M. , Alzubaidi Raidh Talib , Kamkoum Hatem , Zarour Ayman A. , Garada Khalil , Elaarag Mai , Al‐Qudimat Ahmad R. , Fares Zainab E. , Al‐Ansari Abdulla A.
Published: February 2025

Testosterone plays a pivotal role in male health throughout the lifespan. Men generally exhibit higher serum testosterone levels than women, influencing critical aspects of male physiology. It drives normal sexual differentiation during fetal development, promotes the acquisition of pubertal traits, and induces the development of secondary male sex characteristics. While testosterone levels naturally decline with age, this decrease varies greatly between individuals, indicating that aging alone does not account for any specific testosterone level. The interindividual variability highlights the influence of both genetic and environmental factors on testosterone production. Abnormal changes in testosterone levels, whether excessive or deficient, can have significant implications for men's health, contributing to conditions such as hypogonadism, cardiovascular disease, sexual disorders, and metabolic disorders. Precision medicine provides personalized testosterone treatment options for hypogonadism, taking into account genetic, hormonal, and lifestyle aspects to improve outcomes. This tailored approach is also relevant in dealing with broader reproductive and sexual health issues, ensuring effective and individualized care. This review focuses on testosterone's varied involvement in men's health, using biomarkers and precision medicine breakthroughs to inform tailored therapy and future research.
Rhabdomyolysis associated with sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim treatment in a dog
Authors: Champetier Agathe , Gouni Vassiliki , Dossin Olivier
Published: February 2025

A 6‐year‐old, spayed, female, crossbreed dog was presented for pigmenturia and lethargy while receiving sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim for an osteosynthesis‐associated infection. A diagnosis of rhabdomyolysis was made. The antibiotic treatment was discontinued and clinical signs rapidly resolved. To our knowledge, this is the first reported case of rhabdomyolysis following an antibiotic treatment in a dog.
Barriers to timely primary cleft surgery in patients treated by an international cleft‐focused NGO across 18 countries
Authors: Plonkowski Alexander T. , Naidu Priyanka , Davis Greta L. , Etemad Shervin , Otobo Daniel D. , Dwyer Anthony M. , Yao Caroline A. , Magee William P.
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Cleft lip and/or palate (CL ± P) constitutes a significant portion of the global surgical burden. Patients in low‐ and middle‐income countries (LMICs) face disproportionate barriers that result in delayed surgical repair, worse long‐term outcomes, and increased morbidity.

Objectives

This study aimed to identify patient‐reported barriers and demographic characteristics associated with delayed CL ± P surgery in LMICs where Operation Smile provides surgical care.

Methods

A retrospective chart review of patients treated by Operation Smile between 2021 and 2024 was conducted. Variables included patient demographics, socioeconomic information, and self‐reported barriers to care. Delayed repair was defined as greater than 9 months for cleft lip and 18 months for cleft palate. Data were analyzed using chi‐squared and t‐tests. Significant variables then underwent uni/multivariate logistic regression analysis.

Results

Six hundred and sixty‐eight patients were included, of which 339 (50.7%) underwent lip repair and 329 (49.3%) underwent palate repair. The most common patient‐reported barrier was surgical cost (n = 561 and 84.0%). On multivariate regression, increased maternal age significantly increased odds of delayed surgery (OR = 1.03[1.003, 1.07] and p = 0.04) and maternal postsecondary education decreased odds among lip repair patients (OR = 0.22[0.05, 0.77] and p = 0.03). For palate repair, maternal age (OR = 1.05[1.01, 1.09] and p = 0.02) and surgical cost (OR = 2.85[1.42, 5.71] and p = 0.003) increased odds of delay, whereas paternal university‐level education decreased odds (OR = 0.15[0.02, 0.81] and p = 0.04).

Conclusion

Surgical cost is a primary barrier to timely CL ± P repair among patients in LMICs. Higher education among parents is associated with lower odds of delay. These barriers can inform global surgical organization strategies to improve access for patients at risk of delay.
Steroid Hormone Metabolite Levels in European Minks: Implications for the Conservation of a Threatened Species
Authors: Ortiz‐Jiménez Lorena , Navarro‐Castilla Álvaro , Fernández‐Lázaro Gloria , Barja Isabel
Published: February 2025

Captive management of endangered species is a common conservation strategy. Monitoring the endocrine response related to reproduction and the increase of fecal cortisol metabolites is key to evaluating reproductive well‐being and condition. We noninvasively assessed the endocrine status of captive European minks (Mustela lutreola) housed at Foundation for Research in Ethology and Biodiversity [FIEB] (a Spanish biodiversity conservation center) by measuring fecal glucocorticoid cortisol metabolite levels and testosterone, and progesterone metabolite levels. Males showed higher fecal cortisol and testosterone metabolite levels while no differences in fecal progesterone metabolite levels were found between sexes. Fecal levels of the three hormones were positively correlated. Individuals born in FIEB had lower fecal cortisol metabolites than those born in other centers and their values did not increase due to captivity duration. Hormone values obtained in FIEB could serve as a reference for this species management. However, further studies are required to ensure the well‐being and reproductive success of captive and wild populations.
Noninvasive Assessment of Stress and Reproduction in Captive Lions (Panthera leo) Using Fecal Hormone Analysis
Authors: Serres‐Corral Paula , Almagro Vanessa , Ensenyat Conrad , Carbonell Loles , Borragán Santiago , Martínez‐Nevado Eva , Quevedo Miguel Angel , Fernández‐Bellon Hugo , Carbajal Annaïs , López‐Béjar Manel
Published: February 2025

Assessing steroid hormones through feces provides invaluable insight on the stress and reproductive physiology of wildlife, and has been broadly applied to monitor the health and welfare of wild animals managed under human care. This study utilized fecal hormone monitoring to evaluate adrenal and gonadal activity in 18 captive lions (Panthera leo) across five Spanish zoological institutions, focusing on how biological and management factors affect these metrics. We analyzed fecal glucocorticoid metabolites (FGM) concentrations and, additionally in females, fecal progesterone (FPM), estradiol (FEM), and androgen (FAM) metabolites in relation to their reproductive status. Results indicated significant variability in FGM levels among individuals, with no consistent trends influenced by sex or zoo environment, including changes in the frequency of providing environmental enrichment at two zoos. Importantly, reproductive status significantly impacted adrenal and gonadal hormone levels; ovariectomized lionesses showed lower concentrations of FGM, FPM, and FEM compared to intact and deslorelin‐implanted females, the latter of which exhibited higher and more variable FAM levels. These findings advance our understanding of hormone patterns in lions and suggest implications for their management in captivity.
Regularity properties of a generalized Oseen evolution operator in exterior domains, with applications to the Navier–Stokes initial value problem
Authors: Asami Yosuke , Hishida Toshiaki
Published: February 2025

Consider a generalized Oseen evolution operator in 3D exterior domains, that is generated by a non-autonomous linearized system arising from time-dependent rigid motions. This was found by Hansel and Rhandi, and then the theory was developed by the second author, however, desired regularity properties such as estimate of the temporal derivative as well as the Hölder estimate have remained open. The present paper provides us with those properties together with weighted estimates of the evolution operator. The results are then applied to the Navier–Stokes initial value problem, so that a new theorem on existence of a unique strong

$$L^q$$

L
q

-solution locally in time is proved.
Characterization of wood dust emission according to some wood species in 3D machining applied with CNC machine
Authors: Çakıroğlu Evren Osman , Demirarslan Kazım Onur , Taşdemir Taner
Published: February 2025

The use of CNC machines for woodworking is becoming increasingly widespread due to advancing technology. In this study, while 3D processing is performed on wood materials using a CNC machine, the aim is to determine wood dust emissions (PM2.5, PM10) according to processing parameters and wood species. Yellow pine, spruce, chestnut, sapelli, and beech are wood species frequently preferred in furniture businesses. Utilizing a CNC machine equipped with 2 mm and 10 mm diameter cutting tools, the wooden material was machined at a spindle speed of 18,000 RPM, a plunge rate of 4000 mm/min, and a cutting speed of 8000 mm/min. For the study, a 3D-modeled motif with curved lines was selected and applied to wooden prisms measuring 30 cm × 30 cm × 30 mm (width, length, thickness).

In conclusion, Yellow pine, with its high hardness and dense structure, generates significantly more dust than spruce during CNC machining. This result reveals that different wood species exhibit different levels of environmental impact during CNC processing. This underscores the urgent need for appropriate air filtration and emission control systems, particularly for woods that produce high emissions. Fine cutting edges effectively reduce PM2.5 and PM10 concentrations, enhancing workplace air quality. By reducing exposure to wood dust, which is harmful to human health, this study plays a crucial role in addressing this pressing issue and allows for the implementation of suitable arrangements with minimal chip removal for CNC parameters.
Differences in mental health symptoms and treatment by sexual orientation and migration background in a population-based sample
Authors: Malm Andreas , Tinghög Petter , Bränström Richard
Published: February 2025

Purpose

Although sexual minorities are consistently found to be at excess risk of poor mental health, less is known about the mental health of individuals with dual minority statuses based on sexual orientation and migration background. This study aimed to examine prevalence of and disparities in mental health symptoms and treatment for common mental disorders (CMD) among sexual minority migrants; and to explore the potential mediating role of interpersonal and social stress.

Methods

Participants were drawn from the Swedish Public Health Survey, 2018. The analytic sample included 104,652 individuals with complete records on all study variables (37.1%). The survey assessed mental health symptoms and interpersonal and social stress and was complemented with information on psychiatric treatment from comprehensive nationwide registries. Using logistic regression and mediation analyses, six groups were compared based on sexual orientation and migration background.

Results

Greater risk of mental health symptoms was found among Swedish-born and non-European sexual minorities (adjusted odds ratios (OR) = 2.20, 95% confidence intervals (CI): 1.89–2.57, and OR = 2.10, 95% CI 1.34–3.29, respectively) compared to Swedish-born heterosexuals. Swedish-born sexual minorities were at greater risk of receiving treatment for CMD (OR = 2.58, 95% CI 2.20–3.01), while non-European heterosexuals showed lower risk (OR = 0.61, 95% CI 0.52–0.72). Perceived discrimination was less common among non-European sexual minorities compared to their Swedish-born counterparts and partially mediated the association between migration background and mental health symptoms.

Conclusions

Sexual minority migrants are at greater risk of mental health symptoms compared to Swedish-born heterosexuals but not compared to Swedish-born sexual minorities. Providing mental health care for sexual minorities, including sexual minority migrants, and targeting sexual orientation discrimination, should be a priority.
Innovative risk management for machine safety: insights from AS/NZS 4024 standards
Authors: Yazdi Mohammad , Adumene Sidum
Published: February 2025

Manufacturing sites inherently involve significant risks due to complex machinery and high-risk operations. This study highlights the importance of comprehensive risk assessments to prevent accidents, protect workers, and ensure compliance with AS/NZS 4024.1–2019 standards and Work Health and Safety (WHS) regulations. It identifies and evaluates critical hazards, including nip, shear, and crush risks, and provides targeted mitigation strategies to address these specific risks. Key measures include rectifying guarding deficiencies through reinstating bypassed guards, extending guards to cover hazardous zones, and integrating interlocking mechanisms. The study also evaluates the adequacy of these solutions, demonstrating their effectiveness in mitigating risks. Additionally, the role of engineering controls in physically restricting access to hazardous areas and the contribution of administrative controls to fostering compliance and awareness are emphasized. These recommendations bridge critical gaps, reflecting the ingenuity of the proposed solutions, significantly reducing machine-related risks, and enhancing workplace safety and operational compliance.
Identification of Active Component Functions in Finite-Max Minimisation via a Smooth Reformulation
Authors: Ras Charl J. , Tam Matthew K. , Uteda Daniel J.
Published: February 2025

In this work, we consider a nonsmooth minimisation problem in which the objective function can be represented as the maximum of finitely many smooth “component functions”. First, we study a smooth min–max reformulation of the problem. Due to this smoothness, the model provides enhanced capability of exploiting the structure of the problem, when compared to methods that attempt to tackle the nonsmooth problem directly. Then, we present several approaches to identify the set of active component functions at a minimiser, all within finitely many iterations of a first order method for solving the smooth model. As is well known, the problem can be equivalently rewritten in terms of these component functions, but a key challenge is to identify this set a priori. Such an identification is clearly beneficial in an algorithmic sense, since we can discard those component functions which are not necessary to describe the solution, which in turn can facilitate faster convergence. Finally, numerical results comparing the accuracy of each of these approaches are presented, along with the effect they have on reducing the complexity of the original problem.
Improved differentiation of prostate cancer using advanced diffusion models: a comparative study of mono-exponential, fractional-order-calculus, and multi-compartment models
Authors: He Yongsheng , Qi Xuan , Zhou Min-Xiong , Liu Mengxiao , Yang Hongkai , Wang Wuling , Du Bing , Nie Shengdong , Yan Xu
Published: February 2025

Purpose

This study aims to compare the performance of mono-exponential (Mono), fractional-order-calculus (FROC), and multi-compartment (MC) diffusion models in differentiating prostate lesions, including benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and prostate cancer (PCa), as well as classifying PCa by clinical significance and risk levels.

Methods

\A prospective study was conducted with 224 men (aged 50–80) undergoing 3 T MR imaging. Regions of interest (ROIs) analyses were performed on quantitative parameters from Mono, FROC, and MC models. These parameters were evaluated for their ability to distinguish BPH from PCa, clinically significant (CS) from clinically insignificant (CInS) PCa, and among PCa risk levels. Group differences were assessed using the Mann–Whitney U test and Kruskal–Wallis test, followed by post-hoc Dunn’s test. ROC curves were plotted, and AUC was calculated. Logistic regression was used for parameter combinations, and performance was evaluated via 1000 bootstrap samples. The correlation between parameter pairs was analyzed. The image quality and PCa detection capability were also evaluated visually.

Results

In distinguishing PCa from BPH, the F1, ADC, and D parameters from the three models achieved high AUCs of 0.92, 0.91, and 0.91, respectively. For differentiating CS-PCa from CInS-PCa, the F2 parameter and the combination of C1 + F2 from the MC model showed the highest AUCs (0.75 and 0.76). In assessing PCa risk levels, F2 and C1 + F2 from the MC model showed the highest AUCs (0.73 and 0.74) for low vs. intermediate-risk PCa. For intermediate vs. high-risk PCa, F1, F1F2, and β + F1F2 from MC and FROC models had the highest AUCs (0.66, 0.66, and 0.71). In addition, ADC was strongly or moderately correlated to D, μ, F1, F1F2, F3, C1 and C3, and not correlated to β and F2. ADC and C1 demonstrated high image quality and strong PCa detection capability.

Conclusion

Advanced diffusion models, particularly the MC model, demonstrated a significant improvement over ADC in differentiating prostate lesions, especially between low and intermediate-risk PCa, between intermediate and high-risk PCa, and between clinically significant and insignificant PCa. Comparable performance was observed in distinguishing BPH from PCa among three models. Moreover, the combination of MC and FROC models further enhanced differentiation accuracy, particularly in the more challenging classifications between intermediate and high-risk PCa, where ADC alone proved inadequate. These results highlight the potential clinical value of MC model and combining MC and FROC models for more precise PCa risk stratification.

Graphical abstract
The 1956 eruption of Bezymianny volcano (Kamchatka)—part I: petrological constraints on magma storage and eruptive dynamics
Authors: Martel Caroline , Erdmann Saskia , Boudon Georges , Balcone-Boissard Hélène , Ostorero Léa , d’Augustin Thiebaut , Belousov Alexander , Belousova Marina , Davydova Vesta O. , Shcherbakov Vasily D.
Published: February 2025

Bezymianny volcano (Kamchatka, Russia) is an andesitic island arc stratovolcano that started to erupt in 1955 after ~ 1000 years of dormancy. On March 30, 1956, the climactic phase of the eruption was preceded by a 4-month-long emplacement of a shallow cryptodome, which triggered a flank collapse violently decompressing the magma into a laterally directed blast followed by an explosive phase emplacing extensive pumice concentrated pyroclastic density currents (pumice C-PDC). Aiming at constraining the plumbing system below Bezymianny volcano prior to the 1956 eruption, we performed a multiphase textural and petrological study using dense to vesiculated clasts of the blast and pumice samples from the post-blast C-PDC deposits. We inferred the pressure and temperature conditions of magma storage using sample vesicularity, amphibole destabilization rims, volatile contents in melt inclusions, microlite textures, and phase compositions (phenocrysts, microlites, and glasses). We propose a three-level magma storage characterized by a deep reservoir (≥ 200–350 MPa, ≥ 840 °C, ~ 4.0–8.0 wt% H2O and CO2 up to 1500 ppm, where amphibole is stable), a shallow reservoir (50–100 MPa, 850–900 °C, 1.5–4.0 wt% H2O and CO2 < 250 ppm, where amphibole is unstable and quartz crystallizes) in which the pre-cryptodome magma resided and from which the post-blast pumiceous magma originated, and a subsurface cryptodome (< 25 MPa, ~ 900 °C, cristobalite crystallized) from which the blast was initiated. This plumbing system provides the framework for constraining the timescales of the 1956 eruptive dynamics (companion paper). The three-stage architecture proposed for the 1956 andesitic reservoir compares to the present-day plumbing system emitting mafic lavas, thus suggesting that the timescales of the eruptive dynamics (e.g., magma residence time and ascent rate) may be the key to determining evolved or mafic magmas.
Heat stress mitigation by exploring UTCI hotspots and enhancing thermal comfort through street trees
Authors: Silva Tiago , Matias Márcia , Girotti Carolina , Vasconcelos João , Lopes António
Published: February 2025

Heat stress mitigation actions must be carefully planned in order to achieve effective outcomes. By integrating urban planning guidelines with urban climate knowledge, substantial benefits can be achieved for the community. In Lisbon, the study area, urban planning guidelines are strict in relation to the tree species which should be used for planting. This study examined these species environmental contributions to the community, especially in regard to heat stress mitigation in two urban canyons previously found as UTCI hotspots. For this, microclimatic Envi-met simulations were run which allowed recalculation of the UTCI hotspot analysis and to assess individual species contribution to possible mitigation efforts. Results demonstrated the ability of these trees to lower air temperature and the Universal Thermal Climate Index (UTCI). By reducing UTCI temperatures between 3.19 °C and 6.27 °C on a hot summer’s day, these trees were also able to transform an identified UTCI hotspot into a coldspot. From the studied species, Pyrus calleryana was found to be the most effective species for mitigating thermal stress, although all three species performed well. Regarding community services, according to the iTree tool, Cercis siliquastrum had the greatest overall impact. These results give to the municipal urban planning which tree species should be prioritized in terms of climate action, as well as a methodological framework to assess at local scale which areas should be intervened.
Economic impact of labor productivity losses induced by heat stress: an agent-based macroeconomic approach
Authors: Kimmich Christian , Weyerstraß Klaus , Czypionka Thomas , Fauster Norman FRM , Kinner Maurice , Laa Elisabeth , Mateeva Liliana , Plank Kerstin , Ulrici Leonhard , Zenz Hannes , Miess Michael , Poledna Sebastian
Published: February 2025

Against the backdrop of rising temperatures, this paper analyzes how prolonged heat affects labor productivity and the corresponding macroeconomic outcomes, using Austria as a case study. While previous research primarily focused on specific industries or used industry aggregates, this study also considers inter-industrial economic connections. We assess the macroeconomic effects of an increase in seasonal heat stress triggered by climate change with an emphasis on (1) industry-specific work intensity and (2) the vulnerability to heat-induced impairments resulting in an industry-specific loss of labor productivity. To account for indirect and non-linear economic relationships, we apply an agent-based model of the Austrian economy, which translates heat-induced productivity losses into economy-wide effects via shocks to industry-related input-output structures on the level of economic agents. The findings highlight how in the scenario with the highest temperature increase, the largest average loss in real GDP amounts to 0.7% in the third year compared to the baseline scenario. The largest aggregate effect is found for investments in dwellings. In line with existing literature, industries most affected directly are those that perform intense work in the sun, such as agriculture and construction. Our methodological approach, model, and the corresponding EU data sources can serve as a blueprint for further comparative research.
Enhancing mathematics performance in primary education: The impact of personalized learning on fractions and decimal numbers
Authors: Pereda Loriente Álvaro , González-Calero José Antonio , Tirado-Olivares Sergio , del Olmo-Muñoz Javier
Published: February 2025

The use of technology and tools that enable the automation of personalized learning systems has become increasingly relevant and has attracted substantial attention in the field of research. Under this premise, the present study examines the potential of using personalized instructional sequences with activities in the Moodle learning management system on the learning of fractions and decimal numbers among 5th-grade primary school students. A total of 73 students participated in the study. This quantitative-experimental study was implemented over six sessions, in which the experimental and control groups completed personalized and non-personalized sequences of activities, respectively, on their assigned laptops at school. The results revealed significant improvement in both groups in the areas of fractions and decimal numbers. Additionally, when comparing the types of instruction, noteworthy differences were observed in favor of personalized instruction for fractions, but not for decimal numbers.
Parameter estimation and model selection for stochastic differential equations for biological growth
Authors: Baltazar-Larios Fernando , Delgado-Vences Francisco , Ornelas Arelly
Published: February 2025

In this paper, we consider the stochastic versions of three classical growth models given by ordinary differential equations (ODEs). Indeed we use the stochastic versions of Gompertz, von Bertalanffy, and logistic differential equations as models. We assume that each stochastic differential equation (SDE) has some crucial parameters to be estimated, and we use maximum likelihood estimation (MLE) to estimate them. For estimating the diffusion parameter, we use the MLE for two cases and the quadratic variation of the data for one of the SDEs. We apply the Akaike information criterion (AIC) to choose the best model for the simulated data. We consider that the AIC is a function of the drift parameter. We conduct numerical experiments to validate our selection method. Subsequently, we also apply it to actual data. The proposed methodology could be applied to datasets with discrete observations, including highly sparse data. Indeed, we can use this method even in the extreme case where we have observed only one point for each path, under the condition that we observed a sufficient number of trajectories. For the last two cases, the data can be viewed as incomplete observations of a model with a tractable likelihood function; then, we propose a version of the expectation maximization (EM) algorithm to estimate these parameters. This type of dataset typically appears in fishery, for instance.
Estimating effects of ocean environmental conditions on summer flounder (Paralichthys dentatus) distribution
Authors: Deen Samar , Jauss Verena , Sullivan Patrick J.
Published: February 2025

The relative abundance of summer flounder (Paralichthys dentatus) differs over space and time with changes in environmental factors, such as depth, bottom temperature, sea surface temperature (SST) and bottom salinity. We use the integrated nested Laplace approximation (INLA) approach to account for the random effects arising from either over-dispersion, or spatial and temporal autocorrelation. We explore how the different assumptions in the spatial temporal models result in varying model predictions. The results indicate that the distribution of summer flounder is correlated with depth, regional increases in bottom temperature, SST and bottom salinity. We find that in the Fall relative abundance increased 10–15% with a

$$1^{\circ }$$

1
∘

C increase in SST, by 12% with each

$$1^{\circ }$$

1
∘

C increase in bottom temperature and 3–4% with each meter increase in depth across all models. In the spring, relative abundance increased by about 30% with each

$$1^{\circ }$$

1
∘

C increase in SST with an upper preferred temperature between

$$10-20^{\circ }$$

10
-

20
∘

C. Our study also shows that models that include spatio-temporally correlated variables can inadvertently be over parameterized when including higher order interaction terms between spatial and temporal random effects. This can lead to inflated variances in the estimates and predictions as well as lengthening model convergence times. Therefore, care should be taken in identifying the level of model complexity given the indirect implications of these results on fisheries management and marine ecology.