bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
FRAM-Based Analysis of Airport Risk Assessment Process
Authors: Marzec Dominika , Skorupski Jacek
Published: January 2025

The safety of flight operations and passengers is one of the main criteria for evaluating airport performance. Risk analysis and assessment are used to ensure safety in the airport’s decision-making process. This paper aims to formally analyze these processes and look for weaknesses that can lead to erroneous assessments and, thus, ineffective decisions. Given the specific nature of the issue, which requires the Safety II approach, it was assumed that the analysis would be carried out using a systems approach, considering all factors and relationships affecting the effectiveness of the examined processes. As relatively small-scale deviations from the planned operation of individual system functions are observed in real-world analyses, the Functional Resonance Analysis Method (FRAM) was selected as adequate for such situations. A formal study of the risk assessment process was carried out, focusing on two cases chosen during the initial identification of possible hazards. Applying the FRAM proved an effective way to analyze and search for functional resonance in the airport risk assessment process. It also enabled the identification of mitigating actions, which allows for breaking the chain of variability that leads to an unfavorable course of the process.
Effect of Zinc Sulfate and Adjuvants on the Physicochemical Properties and Efficacy of Bromoxynil with Terbythylazine and Nicosulfuron Mixtures Against Echinochloa crus-galli L.
Authors: Idziak Robert , Szuba-Adamska Violetta , Waligóra Hubert , Szulc Piotr
Published: January 2025

The study aimed to evaluate the effects of methyl esters adjuvant, pH reducer, and zinc sulfate on the physicochemical properties (contact angle, surface tension) of a spray liquid and a bromoxynil + terbuthylazine + nicosulfuron mixture’s efficacy. Cockspur (Echinochloa crus-galli L.) was used as the test plant. The placement of any adjuvant in the spray liquid affected the reduction in contact angle, with zinc sulfate reducing it from 75.9 to 66.3°, methyl esters adjuvant from 61.8 to 47.1°, pH reducer from 58.3 to 47.0°, zinc sulfate + methyl esters adjuvant from 64.9 to 58.4°, and zinc sulfate + pH reducer from 57.1 to 44.6°. A decrease in contact angle was found with a reduction in herbicide doses, from 65.6 to 59.0°. The highest pH of the spray liquid with herbicides was found when the methyl esters adjuvant was added to the liquid (6.82–7.17), followed by 6.43–6.80 when zinc sulfate was added, and 6.05–6.30 for zinc sulfate with methyl esters adjuvant. The inclusion of adjuvant pH reducer very strongly reduced the liquid reaction to 3.28–3.60, and it was reduced to 2.76–2.90 in the presence of zinc sulfate. Bromoxynil + terbuthylazine + nicosulfuron mixtures applied with methyl esters adjuvant and zinc sulfate with pH reducer showed the highest efficacy (85–98% and 82–96%), and the efficacy was 64–81% when methyl esters adjuvant with zinc sulfate were used. The effect of the herbicide mixture with only zinc sulfate was noticeably weaker (40–81%), and it was very weak (13–43%) in the presence of adjuvant pH reducer only. On the basis of the ED50 values, the most favorable mixtures were those containing methyl esters adjuvant, methyl esters adjuvant + zinc sulfate and pH reducer + zinc sulfate in addition to the herbicides. Research has indicated that zinc sulfate could be used as an adjuvant, and will support not only the action of herbicides, but also the development of maize plants.
Linking Soil Fertility and Production Constraints with Local Knowledge and Practices for Two Different Mangrove Swamp Rice Agroecologies, Guinea-Bissau, West Africa
Authors: Merkohasanaj Matilda , Cortez Nuno , Cunha-Queda Cristina , Andreetta Anna , Cossa Viriato , Martín-Peinado Francisco José , Temudo Marina Padrão , Goulao Luis F.
Published: January 2025

Mangrove swamp rice (MSR) production is critical for the diet of small farmers of coastal Guinea-Bissau. In mangrove swamp agroecosystems, rice is grown during the rainy season when freshwater and nutrients are abundant. However, small-scale farmers face challenges like unpredictable rainfall and rising sea levels, which increase soil salinity and acidity. This study aims to assess soil physical–chemical properties, paired with farmers’ local practices, to evaluate fertility constraints, and to support sustainable soil–plant management practices. This co-designed research contributes to filling a gap concerning the adoption of sustainable agricultural practices adapted to specific contexts in West Africa. In two regions, Oio (center) and Tombali (south), rice yields were measured in semi-controlled trials both in two agroecological settings: Tidal Mangrove (TM) and Associated Mangrove (AM) fields. 380 soil samples were collected, and rice growing parameters were assessed during the 2021 and 2022 rice sowing, transplanting, and flowering periods. Principal Component Analyses (PCA) and Multivariate Regression Analysis (MRA) were applied to understand trends and build fertility proxies in predicting yields. Significant spatial and temporal variability in the soil properties between agroecologies was found. Salinity constraints in Oio TMs limit production to an average of 110 g/m2, compared to 250 g/m2 in Tombali. Yield predictions account for 81% and 56.9% of the variance in TMs and AMs, respectively. Variables such as organic matter (OM), nitrogen (N), potassium (K), and precipitation positively influence yields, whereas sand content, pH, and iron oxides show a negative effect. This study advances the understanding of MSR production in Guinea-Bissau and underscores the importance of incorporating farmers’ knowledge of their diverse and complex production systems to effectively address these challenges.
The Experience of Prisoners with Serious Mental Disorders Participating in a Dog-Assisted Therapy Program: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Máximo-Bocanegra Nuria , Palacios-Ceña Domingo , Güeita-Rodríguez Javier , Serrada-Tejeda Sergio , García-Medranda Ana , Pacheco-Guijarro Alba , Pacheca-Flores Carlos , Pérez-Corrales Jorge
Published: January 2025

(1) Background: This study investigates the experiences of prisoners with serious mental disorders who participated in a two-month dog-assisted therapy program within a Spanish prison. The aim was to understand the emotional and psychosocial impacts of the program on this population. (2) Methods: A qualitative descriptive design was used with purposeful sampling of sixteen prisoners (mean age 43.4) who completed the program. Data were collected through in-depth interviews and analyzed using thematic analysis to identify key themes. (3) Results: Participants reported a positive emotional impact, highlighting the significance of bonding, love, and reciprocal affection with the therapy dog. They emphasized the dog’s unconditional nature as a source of comfort and connection. The importance of supportive relationships with the therapists who guided the sessions was also noted. Additionally, participants reflected on their motivations for joining the program and described progressive emotional changes over the course of their participation. (4) Conclusions: Dog-assisted therapy shows potential as a psychosocial intervention to enhance the prison experience for individuals with serious mental disorders. By fostering emotional well-being and positive connections, it may contribute to improved rehabilitation outcomes and better quality of life for this population.
Bakery Waste Inclusion in the Diet of Growing Black Goat Kids: Evaluation of Performance and Health Aspects
Authors: Obeidat Belal S.
Published: January 2025

The influence of bakery waste (BAWA) in the diet of black goat kids on nutrient intake, health, growth potential, and carcass features was assessed. Three treatment diets, consisting of 0 BAWA (CON), 50 g/kg BAWA (BAWA50), and 100 BAWA (BAWA100) of dietary dry matter (DM), were administered to 27 male kids (initial body weight = 17.43 ± kg; age = 105 ± 3.5 days) at random (9/treatment). Bakery waste was included in diets BAWA50 and BAWA100, replacing some of the barley grain. The study lasted for 70 days (7 days used for adaptation and 63 days used for data collection). Kids in the BAWA100 group consumed considerably more (p < 0.01) DM, crude protein (CP), and metabolizable energy than those in the BAWA50 and CON groups. However, intakes of neutral detergent fiber (NDF), acid detergent fiber (ADF), and ether extract (EE) were similar (p ≥ 0.08) among the treatment diets. The kids’ initial and final body weights, total growth, and average daily weight were not substantially impacted (p ≥ 0.13) by the addition of BAWA. All diets had similar feed efficiency when it came to converting feed into body weight increases (p ≥ 0.11). Nevertheless, the BAWA diet yielded a considerably lower cost gain (p = 0.04) than the CON diet. The three treatment groups had no differences (p ≥ 0.15) in DM, ADF, NDF, and EE digestibility. However, compared to the CON group, the digestibility of CP tended to improve (p = 0.07) in the BAWA100 and BAWA50 groups. The three experimental groups’ nitrogen (N) intakes did not differ significantly from one another (p > 0.33). Additionally, the three diets’ N retention percentage and grams/d were equivalent (p > 0.33). Several carcass metrics, such as dressing percentage, hot and cold carcass weights, fasting live weight, and non-carcass components, were not significantly affected (p > 0.23) by the addition of BAWA. Additionally, no differences in carcass cut weights were found. The inclusion of BAWA100 and BAWA50 increased loin cut weight (p = 0.043) and total lean muscle weight (p = 0.001) compared to the CON group. Other components, such as intermuscular fat, subcutaneous fat, total fat, total bone, meat-to-bone ratio, and meat-to-fat ratio, were similar among the three diet groups. Concerning carcass linear dimension measurements, only rib fat depth was greater (p = 0.008) in kids fed the BAWA100 diet compared to the BAWA50 and CON diets. No significant variation was observed among the treatments concerning various physicochemical properties of the longissimus dorsi muscle in the black goat kids. All measured serum metabolites and hematological parameters were not affected by the incorporation of BAWA into the diet. In summary, the inclusion of 50 and 100 g/kg BAWA in the diet had comparable effects on the black goat kids’ feed intake, digestibility, growth performance, carcass characteristics, meat quality, and overall health. Importantly, feed costs can be reduced by using up to 100 g/kg of BAWA on a DM basis.
Effect of Photoperiod on Ascorbic Acid Metabolism Regulation and Accumulation in Rapeseed (Brassica napus L.) Seedlings
Authors: Wang Chao , Kuang Lieqiong , Tian Ze , Wang Xinfa , Tu Jinxing , Wang Hanzhong , Dun Xiaoling
Published: January 2025

Ascorbic acid (AsA) is an important antioxidant for human health. The concept of “oil-vegetable-duel-purpose” can significantly enhance the economic benefits of the rapeseed industry. Rapeseed, when utilized as a vegetable, serves as a valuable food source of AsA. In this study, we integrated transcriptome and metabolome analyses, along with substrate feeding, to identify the L-galactose pathway as the primary source for AsA production, which is primarily regulated by light. Through seven different photoperiod treatments from 12 h/12 h (light/dark) to 24 h/0 h, we found that AsA content increased with longer photoperiods, as well as chlorophyll, carotenoids, and soluble sugars. However, an excessively long photoperiod led to photooxidative stress, which negatively affected biomass accumulation in rapeseed seedlings and subsequently impacted the total accumulation of AsA. Furthermore, different enzymes respond differently to different photoperiods. Analysis of the correlation between the expression levels of AsA biosynthesis-related genes and AsA content highlighted a dynamic balancing mechanism of AsA metabolism in response to different photoperiods. The study revealed that the 16 h/8 h photoperiod is optimal for long-term AsA accumulation in rapeseed seedlings. However, extending the photoperiod before harvest can enhance AsA content without compromising yield. These findings offer novel insights into an effective strategy for the biofortification of AsA in rapeseed.
Quasi-Experimental Design for Medical Studies with the Method of the Fuzzy Pseudo-Control Group
Authors: Tenekedjiev Kiril , Panayotova Daniela , Daboos Mohamed , Ivanova Snejana , Symes Mark , Panayotov Plamen , Nikolova Natalia
Published: January 2025

(1) Background: Let the continuous parameter X be a proxy variable for the outcome of an intervention R. Quasi-experimental studies are designed to evaluate the effect of R over X when forming a randomized control group (without the intervention) is impractical or/and unethical. The most popular quasi-experimental design, the difference-in-differences (DID) method, uses four samples of X values (pre- and post-intervention experimental and pseudo-control groups). DID always quantitatively evaluates the effect of R over X. However, its practical significance is restricted by several (often unprovable) assumptions and by the monotonic preference requirement over X. We propose a novel fuzzy quasi-experimental computational approach that addresses those limitations. (2) Methods: A novel method of the fuzzy pseudo-control group (MFPCG) is introduced and formalized. It uses four fuzzy samples as input, exactly the same as DID. We practically determine and statistically compare the favorability of the differences in X before and after the intervention for the experimental and the pseudo-control groups in case of the more general hill preferences over X. MFPCG applies four modifications of fuzzy Bootstrap procedures to perform each of the nine statistical tests used. The new method does not use the assumptions of DID, but it does not always produce a positive or a negative answer, as MFPCG results are qualitative. It is not a competing methodology; as such, it should be used alongside DID. (3) Results: We assess the effect of annuloplasty that acts in conjunction with revascularization over two continuous parameters that characterize the condition of patients with ischemic heart disease complicated by moderate and moderate-to-severe ischemic mitral regurgitation. (4) Conclusions: The statistical results proved the favorable effect of annuloplasty on two parameters, both for patients with a relatively preserved medical state and patients with a relatively deteriorated medical state. We validate the MFPCG solution of the case study by comparing them with those from the fuzzy DID. We discuss the limitations and adaptability of MFPCG, which should warrant its use in other case studies and domains.
Evidence of the Formation of Crystalline Aluminosilicate Phases in Glass-Ceramics by Calcination of Alkali-Brick Aggregates, Enabling Cs+, Rb+, Co2+, and Sr2+ Encapsulation
Authors: Boughriet Abdel , Doyemet Gildas , Poumaye Nicole , Alaimo Véronique , Ventalon Sandra , Bout-Roumazeilles Viviane , Wartel Michel
Published: January 2025

The feasibility of using brick aggregates for the preparation of aluminosilicate “glass-ceramic” forms as a novel cementitious composite capable of immobilizing radioactive elements was examined. Raw brick was initially activated with sodium hydroxide. X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD) confirmed zeolites (Na-A and Na-P), illite, and sand (quartz) as major phases. Thermal analysis showed several successive events: dehydration/dehydroxylation of illite, followed by degradation of illite and zeolites. Upon heating to 1000 °C, scanning electron microscopy and XRD provided evidence of the presence of novel crystalline aluminosilicate forms (analcime and leucite in the form of solid solutions). Then, upon heating to 1150 °C, the thermal process led to the additional formation of mullite and an amorphous silica-rich phase. The latter resulted from silica melting taking place, owing to the involvement of low-melting-point components on sand grains. Alkali-brick particles were then doped with Cs+, Rb+, Ca2+, and Sr2+ ions (individually) and subsequently heated at different temperatures. The corrosion resistance of the heated materials was examined in a hydrochloride acid solution. The aim was to highlight (i) the enhanced cationic-immobilization capacity of crystalline aluminosilicate phases embedded inside amorphous silica, and (ii) the role of sand in the creation of brick-based glass ceramics.
Weight Effects on Vertical Transverse Vibration of a Beam with a Nonlinear Energy Sink
Authors: Fu Xiang , Wei Sha , Ding Hu , Chen Li-Qun
Published: January 2025

Reductions in the vibration of a continuum system via a nonlinear energy sink have been widely investigated. It is usually assumed that weight effects can be ignored if the vibration is measured from the static equilibrium configuration. The present investigation reveals the dynamic effects of weight on the vertical transverse vibrations of a Euler–Bernoulli beam coupled with a nonlinear energy sink. The governing equations considering and neglecting weights were derived. The equations were discretized with some numerical support. The discretized equations were analytically solved via the harmonic balance method. The harmonic balance solutions were compared with the numerical solution via the Runge–Kutta method. Finite element simulations were performed via ANSYS software (version number: 2.2.1). Free and forced vibrations, predicted by equations considering or neglecting the weights, were compared with the finite element solutions. For the forced vibrations, the amplitude–frequency responses determined by the harmonic balance method agree well with those calculated by the Runge–Kutta method. The free and forced vibration responses predicted by the equations considering the weights are closer to those computed by the finite element method than the responses predicted by the equation neglecting the weights. The assumption that weights can be balanced by static deflections leads to errors in the analysis of the vertical transverse vibrations of a Euler–Bernoulli beam with a nonlinear energy sink.
Using Hybrid LSTM Neural Networks to Detect Anomalies in the Fiber Tube Manufacturing Process
Authors: Gomolka Zbigniew , Zeslawska Ewa , Olbrot Lukasz
Published: January 2025

The production process of tubes for fiber optic cables is a complex process, where proper execution is crucial to the quality of the final product. This process has a complex state vector whose structure and coordinates dynamically change during the tube extrusion process. Small fluctuations in process parameters, such as temperature, extrusion pressure, production speed, and optical fiber tension, affect the optical attenuation of the final product. Such defects necessitate the withdrawal of the product. Due to the high number of process coordinates and the technological inability to automatically label those segments of the production process that cause anomalies in the final product, the authors used data clustering methods to create a training set that enabled the use of neural tools for anomaly detection. The system proposed in the main part of the paper includes a hybrid Long short-term memory (LSTM) network model, which is fed with data streams recorded on the tube extrusion production line. The input module, which performs preprocessing of input data, conducts multiresolution analysis of recorded process parameters, and recommends the process state’s belonging to a set of classes describing individual production anomalies to appropriate LSTM network modules. The learning process of the three–channel network allowed effective recognition of five classes of the monitored tube production process. The fit level of the proposed network model reached R2 values of ≥0.85.
Comparison of Identified Ice Supersaturated Regions for Contrail Avoidance Using Three Standard Weather Forecast Databases
Authors: Rose-Tejwani Amy Tal , Sherry Lance , Ebright Kayla
Published: January 2025

Contrails form as a result of water vapor bonding with soot emitted from jet engines at cruise altitudes, leading to contrail formation in Ice Supersaturated Regions (ISSRs). Contrails are estimated to contribute approximately 2% to total anthropogenic global warming. Some researchers have developed simulation models to estimate the frequency, duration, and spatial distribution of contrails. Other researchers have identified issues with the accuracy of the data for predicting the timing and precise geographic positioning of ISSRs. This study presents a systematic review of 22 peer-reviewed articles that included detailed models of ISSR identification, identifying three atmospheric data sources, four parameters, and two equations for calculating the parameters derived. A further analysis revealed differences in the temperature and RHW readings across the three databases, resulting in differences in the RHI calculations and the identification of ISSRs. Over an 18-month period in Sterling, Virginia, USA, the radiosonde data and two atmospheric forecast databases identified the ISSR conditions on 44%, 47%, and 77% of days, respectively. Broken down by a flight level between 30,000 and 39,999 feet in altitude, these differences are highlighted further. The forecast databases overestimated the presence of ISSRs compared to the radiosonde data. These findings underscore the variability inherent in atmospheric datasets and the conversion methods, highlighting potential areas for refinement in ISSR prediction, notably in the development of ensemble forecasts based on several atmospheric databases. The implications of these results, the limitations of this study, and future work are discussed.
On Polynomials Associated with Finite Topologies
Authors: Benoumhani Moussa , Chaourar Brahim
Published: January 2025

Let τ be a topology on the finite set Xn. We consider the open-set polynomial associated with the topology τ. Its coefficients are the cardinalities of sets Uj=Uj(τ) of open sets of size j=0,…,n. We prove that this polynomial has only real zeros only in the trivial case where τ is the discrete topology. Hence, we answer a question raised by J. Brown. We give a partial answer to the question: for which topology is this polynomial log-concave, or at least unimodal? More specifically, we prove that if the topology has a large number of open sets, its open polynomial is unimodal. The idea of degree of log-concavity is introduced and it is shown to be limited for polynomials of non-trivial topologies. Furthermore, the maximum-sized topologies that omit open sets of given sizes are derived. Moreover, all topologies over n points with at least (3/8)2n open sets are proved to be unimodal, completing previous results.
A Review of Pnictogenides for Next-Generation Anode Materials for Sodium-Ion Batteries
Authors: Ha Sion , Kim Junhee , Kim Dong Won , Suh Jun Min , Kim Kyeong-Ho
Published: January 2025

With the growing market of secondary batteries for electric vehicles (EVs) and grid-scale energy storage systems (ESS), driven by environmental challenges, the commercialization of sodium-ion batteries (SIBs) has emerged to address the high price of lithium resources used in lithium-ion batteries (LIBs). However, achieving competitive energy densities of SIBs to LIBs remains challenging due to the absence of high-capacity anodes in SIBs such as the group-14 elements, Si or Ge, which are highly abundant in LIBs. This review presents potential candidates in metal pnictogenides as promising anode materials for SIBs to overcome the energy density bottleneck. The sodium-ion storage mechanisms and electrochemical performance across various compositions and intrinsic physical and chemical properties of pnictogenide have been summarized. By correlating these properties, strategic frameworks for designing advanced anode materials for next-generation SIBs were suggested. The trade-off relation in pnictogenides between the high specific capacities and the failure mechanism due to large volume expansion has been considered in this paper to address the current issues. This review covers several emerging strategies focused on improving both high reversible capacity and cycle stability.
Application of Symbolic Classifiers and Multi-Ensemble Threshold Techniques for Android Malware Detection
Authors: Anđelić Nikola , Baressi Šegota Sandi , Mrzljak Vedran
Published: January 2025

Android malware detection using artificial intelligence today is a mandatory tool to prevent cyber attacks. To address this problem in this paper the proposed methodology consists of the application of genetic programming symbolic classifier (GPSC) to obtain symbolic expressions (SEs) that can detect if the android is malware or not. To find the optimal combination of GPSC hyperparameter values the random hyperparameter values search method (RHVS) method and the GPSC were trained using 5-fold cross-validation (5FCV). It should be noted that the initial dataset is highly imbalanced (publicly available dataset). This problem was addressed by applying various preprocessing and oversampling techniques thus creating a huge number of balanced dataset variations and on each dataset variation the GPSC was trained. Since the dataset has many input variables three different approaches were considered: the initial investigation with all input variables, input variables with high feature importance, application of principal component analysis. After the SEs with the highest classification performance were obtained they were used in threshold-based voting ensembles and the threshold values were adjusted to improve classification performance. Multi-TBVE has been developed and using them the robust system for Android malware detection was achieved with the highest accuracy of 0.98 was obtained.
Rubus coreanus Enhances Peri-Implant Bone Healing and Biomineralization in Ovariectomized and Healthy Rats
Authors: Monteiro Naara Gabriela , de Oliveira-Filho Odir Nunes , Gandolfo Maria Isabela Lopes , Ervolino da Silva Ana Cláudia , Pitol-Palin Letícia , Botacin Paulo Roberto , Mulinari-Santos Gabriel , de Souza Batista Fábio Roberto , Okamoto Roberta
Published: January 2025

Estrogen deficiency contributes to osteoporosis and can therefore compromise the peri-implant bone. Hence, this study evaluated peri-implant bone healing when Rubus coreanus (RC) was administered orally in ovariectomized and healthy rats. Forty 4-month-old female rats were divided into four groups: SHAM (healthy rats), SHAM/RC (healthy rats treated with RC), OVX (ovariectomized rats), and OVX/RC (ovariectomized rats treated with RC). The oral administration of RC started thirty days after ovariectomy, and implant placement into the rat tibia occurred ninety days after the ovariectomy. Euthanasia occurred sixty days after implantation. The analyses performed included removal torque, RT-PCR, confocal microscopy, and immunolabeling. A significance level of p < 0.05 was considered for all tests. The highest reverse torque values were observed in the SHAM/RC group, followed by the OVX/RC group. Confocal microscopy showed the greatest bone biomineralization in the SHAM/RC group, followed by the OVX/RC group. RT-PCR data indicated that RC decreased the RANKL/OPG ratio in both conditions. Immunohistochemistry demonstrated a balance between bone formation and resorption in all groups, especially stimulating osteoblastogenesis in both treated groups. In conclusion, RC enhanced peri-implant bone healing and biomineralization in both healthy and ovariectomized rats, with stronger effects in healthy rats, suggesting that estrogen may enhance its efficacy. These findings support RC’s potential as a prophylactic and therapeutic agent.
Single-Cell RNA-Sequencing Analysis Provides Insights into IgA Nephropathy
Authors: Xia Ming , Li Yifu , Liu Yu , Dong Zheng , Liu Hong
Published: January 2025

IgA nephropathy (IgAN) is currently the most common primary glomerular disease worldwide, and early diagnosis and intervention contribute significantly to improving outcomes and reducing the incidence of renal failure. The pathogenesis of IgAN remains incompletely understood. In recent years, the rapid development of single-cell RNA-sequencing (scRNA-seq) technology has provided the high-resolution and rich data necessary to elucidate disease characteristics and enabled the analysis of complex interactions between individual cells and cell types. The application of scRNA-seq in IgAN successfully revealed the landscape of immunological features, including peripheral blood B-cell and Th-cell activation, cytotoxic T-cell depletion, and renal infiltrating cell subtypes, as well as the crucial role of mesangial cells and endothelial cells in the early stage of kidney injury, and also revealed the extensive intercellular interactions between renal cells. Here, we discuss the research progress of scRNA-seq technology in IgAN. These scRNA-seq profiles help us to understand the complex molecular mechanisms of IgAN and develop biomarkers and specific therapeutic strategies.
Natural Compounds Regulate Macrophage Polarization and Alleviate Inflammation Against ALI/ARDS
Authors: Yin Zhenhuan , Song Ruizhe , Yu Tong , Fu Yunmei , Ding Yan , Nie Hongguang
Published: January 2025

Acute lung injury (ALI)/acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is a pulmonary disease with high mortality associated with inflammation. During the development of ALI/ARDS, macrophages usually polarize toward M1 pro-inflammatory macrophages, promoting the inflammatory response in ALI/ARDS and aggravating lung tissue damage. Natural compounds with anti-inflammatory activity have achieved excellent results in the treatment of ALI/ARDS through different regulatory modes, including macrophage polarization. Of note, flavonoid, brevilin A, and tetrahydropalmatine play an important role in the treatment of ALI/ARDS by modulating the phenotypic polarization of macrophages and their pro-inflammatory cytokine expression in innate immune cells of the lung. Flavonoids are a kind of naturally occurring polyphenol compound, which has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. Studies have found that some flavonoids can alleviate ALI/ARDS through inhibiting the expression of inflammatory cytokines in macrophages. Among them, 5-methoxyflavone, acacetin, grape seed proanthocyanidins, and luteolin can also regulate macrophage polarization. Therefore, the in-depth exploration of the regulatory mechanism of macrophages can lay the foundation for the application of flavonoids in alleviating inflammation-related lung injury. This review focuses on the macrophage polarization effects of different natural compounds and their potential anti-inflammatory mechanisms in the treatment of ALI/ARDS.
Transimpedance Matrix Measurement (TIM) Parameters Evaluation for the Assessment of Cochlear Implant Electrode Placement and Modiolar Proximity in Children
Authors: Radomska Katarzyna , Talar Marcin , Haber Karolina , Mierzwińska-Dolny Paulina , Fishman Andrew J. , Mierzwiński Józef
Published: January 2025

Introduction: Transimpedance matrix measurement (TIM) is an electrophysiological measurement protocol of the impedance patterns of electrode contacts within the cochlea. Several studies have reported that TIM is an effective tool for the identification of abnormal electrode array placement. However, the normative values for properly inserted electrodes, as well as correlation of the TIM patterns with the electrode position, are not completely determined. Objectives: The first aim of this study is to establish normative values of TIM measurements obtained in children with proper electrode array insertion and tip fold-over, with proper inner ear anatomy and in congenital anomalies. The second aim of this study is to compare TIM measurements in Slim Modiolar (SM) and in Contour Advance (CA) electrodes, as their position is different according to the modiolus proximity. Methods: A total of 55 pediatric patients were included in the study and underwent cochlear implantation. 62 intraoperative measurements were conducted in this group—50 in children with normal inner ear anatomy and 12 in children with inner ear malformations. After each implantation, a plain x-ray was obtained. Results: There were clear statistically significant differences in TIM patterns in patients where electrode fold-over was confirmed and between SM and CA electrodes. Conclusions: TIM is a promising technique for intraoperative analysis of electrode placement. TIM patterns differ and correlate consistently with the different models of array implanted. This study is the first to report TIM patterns observed in children with normal inner ear anatomy and in inner ear malformations.
Prediction and Measurement of Hovering Flapping Frequency Under Simulated Low-Air-Density and Low-Gravity Conditions
Authors: Lim Hyeonjun , Ha Giheon , Park Hoon Cheol
Published: January 2025

The ability to predict lift is crucial for enabling flapping flights on planets with varying air densities and gravities. After determining the lift required for a flapping flight on Earth, it can be predicted under different conditions using a scaling equation as a function of air density and gravity, assuming the cycle-average lift coefficient remains constant. However, in flapping wings, passive deformation due to aerodynamic and inertial forces may alter the flapping-wing kinematics, complicating predictions. In this study, we investigated changes in the lift coefficient of flapping wings under various air density and gravity conditions simulated using a low-pressure chamber and tilting stand, respectively. The current study found that the cycle-averaged lift coefficients remained nearly constant, varying by less than 7% across the air density and gravity conditions. The difference between the measured and predicted hovering frequencies increased under a lower air density due to the higher vibration-induced friction. The power consumption analysis demonstrated higher energy demands in thinner atmospheres and predicted a required power of 5.14 W for a hovering flight on Mars, which is a 66% increase compared to that on Earth. Future experiments will test Martian air density and gravity conditions to enable flapping flights on Mars.
Detection of Cognitive Performance Deterioration Due to Cold-Air Exposure in Females Using Wearable Electrodermal Activity and Electrocardiogram
Authors: Kong Youngsun , McNaboe Riley , Hossain Md Billal , Posada-Quintero Hugo F. , Diaz Krystina , Chon Ki H. , Bolkhovsky Jeffrey
Published: January 2025

Prolonged exposure to cold air can impair reaction time and cognitive function, which can lead to serious consequences. One mitigation strategy is to develop models that can predict cognitive performance by tracking physiological metrics associated with cold stress. As females are evidenced to be more sensitive to cold exposure, this study investigated the relationship between physiological metrics and cognitive performance deterioration of female subjects under cold stress. Wearable electrodermal activity (EDA) and electrocardiogram (ECG) were collected from nineteen females who underwent five sessions of a cognitive task battery—assessing reaction time, memory, and attention—in a cold (10 °C) environment. Machine learning classifiers showed higher cognitive performance classification accuracies with heart rate variability (HRV) features than with EDA features. Particularly in detecting performance deterioration in a task associated with assessing short-term memory, our support vector machine classifier with HRV features showed an 82.4% accuracy, with a sensitivity of 84.2% and a specificity of 80.6%, whereas a 55.4% accuracy with a sensitivity of 44.7% and a specificity of 66.7% was obtained with EDA features. Our results demonstrate the feasibility of detecting performance deterioration from females who underwent cold exposure using wearable EDA and ECG, allowing for preventive measures to reduce risk in cold environments, especially for female military personnel.
Mitochondrial Dysfunction Correlates with Brain Amyloid Binding, Memory, and Executive Function in Down Syndrome: Implications for Alzheimer’s Disease in Down Syndrome
Authors: Beresford-Webb Jessica A. , McAllister Catherine J. , Sleigh Alison , Walpert Madeleine J. , Holland Anthony J. , Zaman Shahid H.
Published: January 2025

Background/Objectives: Mitochondrial dysfunction is increasingly recognized as a central contributor to neurodegenerative diseases and age-related cognitive decline. Individuals with Down syndrome (DS) are at high risk of neurodegeneration due to Alzheimer’s disease (AD). This study aims to explore the relationship between mitochondrial dysfunction, brain amyloid-beta (Aβ) deposition, and cognitive decline in this population. Methods: We investigated mitochondrial function, brain amyloid-beta burden, and cognitive performance in a pilot study of a cohort of 10 eligible adults with DS selected from a sample of 28 individuals with DS. Phosphorus-31 magnetic resonance spectroscopy (31P-MRS) was used to assess mitochondrial function in skeletal muscle using a post-exercise paradigm, while positron emission tomography using 11C-Pittsburgh compound B (PiB-PET) measured brain Aβ deposition. Cognitive performance was evaluated using the Cambridge Cognitive Examination adapted for individuals with Down syndrome (CAMCOG-DS) and executive function batteries. Results: Significant correlations were observed between slowed phosphocreatine (PCr) recovery in muscle and increased Aβ deposition in key brain regions, particularly the striatum. Cognitive performance inversely correlated with mitochondrial function, with pronounced deficits in memory and executive function tasks. Notably, an individual carrying the APOE-ε4 allele exhibited the poorest mitochondrial function, highest Aβ burden, and most severe cognitive impairment, suggesting a potential interaction between genetic risk and mitochondrial health. Conclusions: These findings highlight the role of mitochondrial dysfunction in DS-associated AD (DSAD) and its impact on cognition in adults. The results support targeting mitochondrial pathways as a potential therapeutic strategy to mitigate AD progression in DS populations. Further research with larger cohorts and longitudinal designs is needed to clarify causative mechanisms and develop effective interventions.
Natural Source of Drugs Targeting Central Nervous System Tumors—Focus on NAD(P)H Oxidoreductase 1 (NQO1) Activity
Authors: Stojanovic Nikola M. , Mitić Milica , Ilić Jovan , Radić Milica , Radisavljević Miša , Baralić Marko , Krstić Miljan
Published: January 2025

Central nervous system (CNS) tumors involve a large and diverse group of malignancies that arise from various cell types within the brain tissue. Although there are advances in treatments, CNS tumors still remain challenging, due to their complex biology and the delicate nature of the surrounding tissue. NAD(P)H O=oxidoreductase 1 (NQO1) is an enzyme that plays a critical role in the detoxification of quinones, protecting cells from oxidative stress. In CNS tumors this enzyme is often overexpressed, which contributes to the resistance of tumor cells to chemotherapy by enhancing their antioxidant defenses. NQO1 influences the progression of CNS tumors by affecting downstream signaling pathways, such as those involving the transcription factor SNAIL, as well as others that are associated with tumor behavior. Plants represent a valuable source of numerous constituents with different chemical structures known to affect different molecular signaling pathways associated with different pathologies.
Experimental and Computational Assessment of Building Structures Reinforced with Textile Fiber Waste to Improve Thermo-Mechanical Performance
Authors: Ayed Rabeb , Borri Emiliano , Skouri Safa , Lachheb Mohamed , Bouadila Salwa , Younsi Zohir , Cabeza Luisa F. , Lazaar Mariem
Published: January 2025

Faced with the growing demand for energy-efficient construction and the need to address environmental challenges, the building sector must innovate to reduce energy consumption and promote sustainability. This study investigates a dual solution to these challenges by enhancing the thermo-mechanical performance of building materials through the integration of textile fiber waste, using a combination of experimental and computational methodologies. This investigation focused on incorporating textile fiber wastes in cementitious composites for construction applications. A series of mechanical and thermal tests were carried out on the cement mortars with different proportions of incorporated textile fibers after 7 and 28 days of water curing. The results showed that the incorporation of fibers can significantly improve the thermal insulation of buildings by reducing the thermal conductivity of cement mortar by up to 52%. To complement experimental findings, computational models were developed using COMSOL Multiphysics 6.2 software to predict the thermal diffusivity and volumetric heat capacity of textile-reinforced mortars. These models revealed that mortars incorporating 40% textile fibers as a sand replacement achieved significant reductions in thermal conductivity, thermal diffusivity, and volumetric heat capacity by approximately 40%, 21%, and 23%, respectively, compared with ordinary cement mortar. Furthermore, this study numerically examined the potential of combining textile-reinforced mortar with phase-change material (PCM) in building applications. The aim of the research was to overcome the challenges of cooling buildings in scorching summer conditions. The optimization of roof and wall composition was based on an assessment of air temperature variation within a space.
Passive Dissipation of Canopy Urban Heat Through Double Skin Façades
Authors: Huang Chih-Hong , Wang Ching-Hsun , Tsaur Yu-Ping
Published: January 2025

In the face of global warming, mitigating the urban heat island effect has become an important concern worldwide. This study applies the principle of buoyancy ventilation formed by sunlight in double skin façades (DSFs) to improve the thermal environment outside buildings by discharging heat through temperature and pressure differences. The study subject is a 15 × 30 × 40 m residential concrete building situated in a subtropical climate. The lower opening of the DSF faces the outdoor environment; heat is absorbed through this opening from the ground environment and then evacuated up to above the urban canopy layer heat island in order to cool pedestrian environments on the ground. We used numerical simulation to analyze the cooling potential of this DSF in summer daytime conditions. The results show that the DSF can successfully transport heat energy and discharge it above the urban canopy layer. Significant cooling effects were observed in both the horizontal and vertical spaces on the leeward side of the building DSF through the passage of surface heat, thereby reducing the load of indoor air conditioning.
Role of Rac1 in p53-Related Proliferation and Drug Sensitivity in Multiple Myeloma
Authors: Matsumura Ikuko , Oda Tsukasa , Kasamatsu Tetsuhiro , Murakami Yuki , Ishihara Rei , Ohmori Ayane , Matsumoto Akira , Gotoh Nanami , Kobayashi Nobuhiko , Miyazawa Yuri , Ogawa Yoshiyuki , Yokohama Akihiko , Sasaki Nobuo , Saitoh Takayuki , Handa Hiroshi
Published: January 2025

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Electrocatalytic Pathways and Efficiency of Cuprous Oxide (Cu2O) Surfaces in CO2 Electrochemical Reduction (CO2ER) to Methanol: A Computational Approach
Authors: Laghari Zubair Ahmed , Yahya Wan Zaireen Nisa , Mohammed Sulafa Abdalmageed Saadaldeen , Bustam Mohamad Azmi
Published: January 2025

Carbon dioxide (CO2) can be electrochemically, thermally, and photochemically reduced into valuable products such as carbon monoxide (CO), formic acid (HCOOH), methane (CH4), and methanol (CH3OH), contributing to carbon footprint mitigation. Extensive research has focused on catalysts, combining experimental approaches with computational quantum mechanics to elucidate reaction mechanisms. Although computational studies face challenges due to a lack of accurate approximations, they offer valuable insights and assist in selecting suitable catalysts for specific applications. This study investigates the electrocatalytic pathways of CO2 reduction on cuprous oxide (Cu2O) catalysts, utilizing the computational hydrogen electrode (CHE) model based on density functional theory (DFT). The electrocatalytic performance of flat Cu2O (100) and hexagonal Cu2O (111) surfaces was systematically analysed, using the standard hydrogen electrode (SHE) as a reference. Key parameters, including free energy changes (ΔG), adsorption energies (Eads), reaction mechanisms, and pathways for various intermediates were estimated. The results showed that CO2 was reduced to CO(g) on both Cu2O surfaces at low energies. However, methanol (CH3OH) production was observed preferentially on Cu2O (111) at ΔG = −1.61 eV, whereas formic acid (HCOOH) and formaldehyde (HCOH) formation were thermodynamically unfavourable at interfacial sites. The CO2-to-methanol conversion on Cu2O (100) exhibited a total ΔG of −3.38 eV, indicating lower feasibility compared to Cu2O (111) with ΔG = −5.51 eV. These findings, which are entirely based on a computational approach, highlight the superior catalytic efficiency of Cu2O (111) for methanol synthesis. This approach also holds the potential for assessing the catalytic performance of other transition metal oxides (e.g., nickel oxide, cobalt oxide, zinc oxide, and molybdenum oxide) and their modified forms through doping or alloying with various elements.
An Electronic Nose Analysis of the Headspace from Extra-Virgin Olive Oil–Saliva Interactions and Its Ability to Differentiate Between Individuals Based on Body Mass Index
Authors: Genovese Alessandro , Balivo Andrea , Caporaso Nicola , Sacchi Raffaele
Published: January 2025

The interaction between fatty foods and saliva in individuals of different body weights may lead to differences in the release of volatile compounds in the mouth. This study investigates the ability of an electronic nose (E-nose) to discriminate between the headspace profiles of extra-virgin olive oil (EVOO) mixed with the saliva of 55 subjects of different body mass indices (BMI). The resulting data were analysed using linear discriminant analysis (LDA) and principal component analysis (PCA) to evaluate the E-nose’s ability to discriminate between groups. W5S, W1S, W2S, and W2W sensors exhibited the greatest variation in response intensity; in particular, they highlighted differences between obese and non-obese subjects. The LDA plot demonstrated a clear separation of samples corresponding to three BMI groups, with the first and second components accounting for 61.25% and 23.97% of the variance, respectively. Overall, the percentage of correct classification in the cross-validation results was 87.3%. These results highlight the potential of an electronic nose for use as a rapid and objective tool for screening olfactory profiles associated with food matrix–saliva interaction in different BMI groups, providing valuable insight for further research on food–saliva interactions.