bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Economic Viability of Scaling Improved Bean Technologies in Burundi and Zimbabwe
Authors: Justus Ochieng , Maina Joel , White Doug , Rubyogo Jean Claude , Nduwarugira Eric , Birachi Eliud , Chepchirchir Ruth , Katungi Enid , Nchanji Eileen , Kalemera Sylvia , Mutua Mercy , Chiwawa Andrew , Ndabashinze Blaise , Astère Bararyenya , Ntukamazina Nepomuscene , Tsekenedza Shylet
Published: February 2025

Scaling improved bean varieties and complementary technologies are important to improve crop productivity incomes and food and nutrition security in Sub‐Saharan Africa. In Burundi and Zimbabwe, bean technologies were promoted through a demand‐led and public–private partnership model. While econometric approaches have been used to estimate the impact of enhanced technologies on farmers' livelihoods for a long time, no economic feasibility analysis has been done. Most analyses focus on farmers livelihoods, overlooking other value chain actors like traders, processors, and seed producers including community seed multipliers. Thus, this study contributes to the literature by conducting an economic feasibility analysis that includes all actors in the bean value chain and estimates additional investments attracted from public and private stakeholders. We further identified gains or losses on account of the externalities generated through different value chain actors. We find positive net present values (NPV) and a benefit–cost ratio (BCR) greater than one. This implies that the economic benefits of the bean value chain improvement program in the two countries are larger than their costs. Farmers and traders are the main beneficiaries, receiving 99% and 65% of the net economic benefits generated in the bean value chain in Burundi and Zimbabwe, respectively. Finally, we find the intervention sustainable and resilient against economic shocks, making it worth replicating in other countries in sub‐Sahara Africa and beyond. Pragmatic and policy options are recommended to inform future interventions of a similar nature.
Melo dam drilled steel pile wall: Restraining seepage through earth dam
Authors: Kiuru Samuli
Published: February 2025

The Melo dam hydroelectric power plant in Nokia, Finland, was built between 1968 and 1971. The dam structure consists of a turbine hall on the right bank of the Kokemäenjoki river and a 120 m long earth dam adjacent to it. The earth dam was constructed with layers of moraine, gravel and rock fill. Over the years, seepage issues emerged, including a sinkhole in 2005, leading to temporary repairs. However, in 2019, a comprehensive renovation plan was initiated to develop a permanent solution. In 2022, KFS Finland carried out construction work to restrain seepage and ensure dam stability. This involved building a drilled steel pile wall along the entire length of the dam, using RD500 steel pipes drilled into the bedrock, reaching a depth of 67 m from the surface. The completed structure is now the deepest drilled pile wall in Finland, ensuring the dam's structural integrity for decades to come.
Intestinal Parasitic Infections and Associated Behavioral Risk Factors in a Squatter Community in Butwal, Nepal: A Pilot Study
Authors: Bhandari Shristi , Parajuli Rajendra Prasad , Dhakal Pitambar , Pandey Kishor
Published: February 2025

Background

Intestinal parasitic infections (IPIs) are among the most prevalent illnesses worldwide. The morbidity associated with IPIs results in health and economic burdens for billions of people worldwide, especially in low‐income nations. Increasing urbanization in Nepal has resulted in the formation of squatter communities in urban centers. These communities often face a disproportionate burden of health issues due to the quality of their living environment. This study aims to determine the prevalence of and risk factors for IPIs in the squatter community of Butwal, Nepal.

Methods

A total of 170 individuals were recruited for a cross‐sectional study via convenience sampling. Information pertaining to demographic, socioeconomic, and behavioral factors was obtained via structured questionnaires, personal interviews, and direct witnessing during the field visit. Stool samples (n = 170) were examined for intestinal parasite eggs and oocysts via direct wet mount and concentration techniques.

Results

Overall, the prevalence of parasites was 28.8% (5.3% protozoa, 24.7% helminths). Six species of intestinal parasites were detected. Ascaris lumbricoides (21.2%) was the most dominant helminthic parasite, followed by Trichuris trichiura (2.9%), Entamoeba histolytica (2.4%), Cryptosporidium sp. (1.8%), Giardia lamblia (1.8%), and hookworm (1.8%). Multivariate regression analysis revealed that participants who did not trim their nails once a week were more prone to getting a parasitic infection.

Conclusion

The relatively high prevalence of IPIs among participating residents of the Butwal slum may contribute to an increased risk of IPI transmission due to inadequate hygiene behaviors. Among the participants in this study, more than one quarter stated that they do not trim their nails every week, and approximately one‐fifth indicated open defecation. Standardized health education regarding the benefits of hand and nail hygiene behaviors may contribute positively in reducing the parasitic burden and interrupting the chain of transmission in developing urban areas such as Butwal.
Pyoderma gangrenosum vulvae misdiagnosed as Bartholin's gland abscess: A case report
Authors: Guo Yongbing , Chen Yan , Yu Xiaolan
Published: February 2025

Pyoderma gangrenosum is a rare inflammatory skin disease characterized by skin inflammation and painful ulcerative lesions. What's more the Letion related to vulvae was relatively rare. The patient's vulvar painful ulceration was initially misdiagnosed as a Bartholin's gland abscess in another hospital, so antibiotic therapy was prescribed. Then she was referred to our gynecology ward due to unsatisfactory outcome. Finally, the diagnosis was corrected as pyoderma gangrenosum by dermatopathological examination and the patient's lesion healed completely after one‐month administration of sulfasalazine. The awareness of vulvar gangrenous pyoderma should be raised expecially when a vulva ulcerative letion presents.
From Burden to Enjoyment: A User‐Centered Approach to Engage Adolescents in Intensive Longitudinal Research
Authors: Bülow Anne , Janssen Loes H. C. , Dietvorst Evelien , de Bij de Vaate Nadia A. J. D. , Hillegers Manon H. J. , Valkenburg Patti M. , Keijsers Loes
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Adolescent psychology is embracing intensive longitudinal methods, such as diaries and experience sampling techniques, to investigate real‐life experiences. However, participants might perceive the repetitive self‐reporting in these data collection techniques as burdensome and demotivating, resulting in decreased compliance rates. In this tutorial paper, we present a user‐centered approach aimed at making participation in experience sampling and daily diary studies a meaningful and fun experience for adolescents.

Methods

In three major research projects that took place between 2019 and 2023, more than 4,000 Dutch adolescents participated (12–25 years old). To improve the participants' user journey, adolescents were invited to codesign our studies and share their expertise in interviews (n = 459), focus groups (n = 101), design decisions (i.e., A/B tests, n = 107), pilots (n = 163), exit interviews (n = 167), and by answering user experience questionnaires (n = 2,109).

Results

Across projects, we discovered five different main intrinsic and extrinsic motives to participate in intensive longitudinal studies: (1) rewards, (2) fun and interest, (3) helping science or the greater good, (4) helping the scientist or another person, and (5) gaining self‐insight. We provide concrete examples of how we tailored our study designs to address these specific motives to optimize youth engagement.

Conclusions

The engagement of adolescents in intensive longitudinal studies can be enhanced by making it a meaningful and enjoyable experience, aligned with their own motives.
The central fibre areas in the tibial footprint of the posterior cruciate ligament show the highest contribution to restriction of a posterior drawer force—A biomechanical robotic investigation
Authors: Deichsel Adrian , Briese Thorben , Liu Wenke , Raschke Michael J. , Albert Alina , Peez Christian , Herbst Elmar , Kittl Christoph
Published: February 2025

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to determine the role of different fibre areas of the tibial footprint of the posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) in restraining posterior tibial translation.

Methods

A sequential cutting study on cadaveric knee specimens (n = 8) was performed, utilizing a six‐degrees‐of‐freedom robotic test setup. The tibial attachment of the PCL was divided into nine areas, which were sequentially cut in a randomized sequence. After determining the native knee kinematics with 89 N anterior, and posterior tibial translation force at 0°, 30°, 60° and 90° knee flexion, a displacement‐controlled protocol was performed replaying the native motion. Utilizing the principle of superposition, the reduction of the restraining force represents the contribution (in‐situ forces) of each cut fibre area.

Results

The PCL was found to contribute 25.3 ± 11.1% in 0° of flexion, 49.7 ± 19.2% in 30° of flexion, 58.9 ± 19.3% in 60° of flexion and 50.6 ± 15.1% in 90° of flexion, to the restriction of a posterior drawer force. Depending on the flexion angle, every cut area of the tibial PCL footprint was shown to be a significant restrictor of posterior tibial translation (p ≤ 0.05). When investigating the fibre areas from anterior to posterior, the central fibre areas showed the highest contribution (35.0%–44.3%). When investigating the fibre areas from medial to lateral, the lateral fibre areas showed the highest contribution (41.4%–43.6%) from 0 to 30° knee flexion, while the medial fibre areas showed the highest contribution (41.5%) in 90° knee flexion.

Conclusion

The central row areas in the tibial footprint of the PCL were identified to be the main contributors inside the tibial footprint, while, depending on the flexion angle, the medial or lateral column fibre areas showed a higher contribution. These findings might inform the clinician to place a PCL graft centrally into the tibial footprint during reconstruction.

Level of Evidence

Not applicable.
Methane emission reduction by adding sulfate to liquid dairy manure
Authors: Matos Pereira Lima Filipe , Laniel Mélodie , Balde Hambaliou , Gordon Robert , VanderZaag Andrew
Published: February 2025

Dairy farmers are interested in reducing the carbon footprint of milk. Reducing methane (CH4) emissions is a key part of this goal, and manure is a significant CH4 source. Technologies like anaerobic digesters for biogas production are effective; however, adoption rates are slowed by upfront costs and infrastructure needs. Achieving near‐term emission reductions needs low‐cost alternatives that can be quickly and widely adopted. Previous studies have shown that “acidification” of manure by adding sulfuric acid (H2SO4) suppressed CH4 emissions; however, widespread adoption may be hindered by the challenge of handling acid on farms. This laboratory study was performed for 157 days at 24°C, and compared the efficacy of a sulfate‐based non‐acidic fertilizer (CaSO4), and two rates of acidification, one at pH > 7 and one at pH < 7, for a sulfate‐based acid (H2SO4) and a sulfate‐free acid (H3PO4). Methane suppression by CaSO4 at multiple rates was also analyzed. Two mechanisms of suppression were observed: acidification had a demonstrable early effect, lowering cumulative CH4 emission within 40 days by up to 65% for H2SO4 and 54% for H3PO4, while sulfate‐containing compounds showed increasing suppression after 50 days. Final cumulative CH4 suppression was up to 63% for CaSO4 and 91% for H2SO4, while H3PO4 was least effective. These results suggest H2SO4 is highly effective due to the combination of acidity and sulfate. Adding sulfate alone (CaSO4) was more effective than adding acid alone (H3PO4). Hence, sulfate‐based additives—like gypsum—may hold promise as an alternative near‐term solution for dairy farms to make large CH4 reductions.
Sarcopenia and sarcopenic obesity: Their association with postoperative outcomes in patients with hip fractures
Authors: Veizi Betül Gülsüm Yavuz , Imeri Valbona , Naldöven Ömer Faruk , Güven Şahan
Published: February 2025

Background

Sarcopenia, characterized by age‐related loss of muscle mass and function, significantly impacts the quality of life of older adults. This condition is prevalent among elderly patients with hip fractures.

Objective

To investigate the association of sarcopenia and sarcopenic obesity with mortality and length of hospital stay in patients admitted for hip fracture. Additionally, this study aims to investigate possible risk factors associated with higher mortality rates in the same patient groups.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study was conducted involving patients aged 60 and older who underwent hip fracture surgery between February 2019 and April 2023 at a single tertiary care hospital. Sarcopenia was defined using appendicular skeletal muscle mass index (ASMI) and psoas muscle index values derived from preoperative computed tomography scans. Patients were categorized into sarcopenic, sarcopenic obese, and non‐sarcopenic groups. Primary outcomes included 1‐year mortality, and secondary outcomes included hospital stay duration. Cox regression and binary logistic regression analyses were performed, adjusting for potential confounders including age, sex, and comorbidities.

Results

The study included 311 patients (mean age 79.7 years). After adjustment for confounders, sarcopenia, as defined by ASMI, was associated with a higher 1‐year mortality risk (hazard ratio [HR]: 1.80, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.04–3.13, p = .034). Sarcopenic obesity further increased mortality risk (HR: 2.68, 95% CI: 1.10–2.57, p = .016). Sarcopenia alone was not significantly associated with prolonged hospital stays after adjustment.

Conclusions

Sarcopenia remained independently associated with mortality in patients with hip fractures after adjustment for various factors. Sarcopenic obesity was associated with a higher risk of mortality than sarcopenia alone. These findings underscore the prognostic significance of sarcopenia in this vulnerable population.
Electrocardiographic imaging metrics to predict the risk of arrhythmia in patients with ischemic cardiomyopathy
Authors: Ardinal Azizah Puspitasari , Morgan Holly P. , Elliott Mark , Bishop Martin , Rinaldi Christopher Aldo , Perera Divaka
Published: February 2025

Background

The leading cause of death in patients with ischemic cardiomyopathy is sudden cardiac death caused by ventricular arrhythmias. Accurate determination of arrhythmic risk in these patients is vital to allow clinicians to take appropriate preventive measures.

Objective

To review and summarize the literature on electrocardiographic imaging (ECGi) metrics that could be used to predict arrhythmic risk in patients with ischemic cardiomyopathy.

Methods

A comprehensive literature search was performed to retrieve research articles on non‐invasive electrocardiographic mapping techniques. Inclusion criteria of the studies required the involvement of patients with ischemic cardiomyopathy or ischemic heart disease.

Results

A total of 17 papers were identified, five of which specifically utilized ECGi to acquire metrics associated with an increased risk of ventricular arrhythmia (VA). ECGi metrics, including activation time, repolarization time, activation‐recovery interval, and voltage amplitude, were distinguishable between patients with ischemic cardiomyopathy, patients with a history of VA, and healthy controls.

Conclusion

ECGi allows non‐invasive measurement of metrics which are associated with an increased risk of ventricular arrhythmias in patients with ischemic cardiomyopathy. ECGi may be a useful tool for risk assessment in these patients. Prospective studies are warranted for further validation and prediction of clinical endpoints.
Antimicrobial Feature of Traditional Coconut Leaf‐Based Packaging Coated With Propolis
Authors: Gotama Grettivia , Wardana Ata Aditya , Wigati Laras Putri , Tanaka Fumina , Tanaka Fumihiko
Published: February 2025

Propolis has the potential to serve as an alternative coating for coconut leaves, given its antimicrobial qualities attributed to compounds such as flavonoids and phenolic acids. The objective of this research is to assess the antibacterial activity of coconut leaf‐based packaging coated with propolis. Specifically, 3% concentrations of two types of propolis from different regions, namely Indonesia (A) and Brazil (B), are chosen as coating materials for the coconut leaves. It chooses a 3% propolis concentration for the coating based on a preliminary test. The application of the coating influences the thickness of the leaves, ranging from 0.39 to 0.41 mm, and results in a color change (∆E) ranging from 23.95 to 28.06. The enhancement of antimicrobial features against Bacillus subtilis and Escherichia coli is more pronounced in propolis B‐coated leaves (9.84 mm for B. subtilis; 13.22 mm for E. coli) compared to propolis A‐coated leaves (8.94 mm for B. subtilis; 12.28 mm for E. coli), as observed through the inhibition zone test.
Modeling and Characterization of Ion‐Imprinted Polymer for Arsenic Species Removal From Aqueous Solution
Authors: Abu Samah Nurlin
Published: February 2025

Arsenic (As) contamination is a global issue, especially in As‐rich geological formations. In this study, an ion‐imprinted polymer (As(III)‐IIP) is synthesized and characterized in terms of kinetic modeling and application via solid phase extraction (SPE). As is detected by using the inductively coupled plasma‐mass spectrometer (ICP‐MS). The surface study is also included in this study, in which the differences between non‐imprinted polymer (NIP) and As(III)‐IIP before and after sorption are observed via field electron scanning electron microscope (FESEM). As a result, As(III)‐IIP follows the pseudo‐second‐order of reaction in kinetics and reaches 95% within 5 min of removal. In FESEM micrographs, As(III)‐IIP shows the particles on the surface are likely homogenous compared to NIP. Whereas As(III)‐IIP after sorption is much more likely bigger than the original As(III)‐IIP due to the expansion of particles during agitation in an aqueous solution. In the first cycle, 99.53% ± 0.45% of removal in real wastewater analysis is obtained via SPE. However, for the second cycle onwards, the removal is not removed totally, which shows that a new combination of eluent is required. In conclusion, As(III)‐IIP shows good potential as a sorbent to be used for the removal of As from wastewater.
Properties of Pineapple Leaf Fiber (PALF) Reinforced Polypropylene (PP) Composites
Authors: Salim Nurjannah , Johari Fatin Nursyafiqah , Roslan Rasidi , Abu Bakar Nurul Huda , Abu Samah Nurlin , Kabeb Siti Maznah , Sarmin Siti Noorbaini
Published: February 2025

Pineapple leaf fiber (PALF) is an abundant natural fiber that is produced from agricultural plantations in Malaysia. Typically, after three times the pineapple yield, pineapple leaf waste is burned, which can cause an environmental issue. PALF has the potential to be converted into fiber‐reinforced composites. PALF surpasses other natural fibers in terms of mechanical characteristics due to its high specific strength. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the effects of different PALF fiber loadings on PALF/polypropylene (PP) composite properties. The sample of composites is fabricated with three different PALF fiber loadings (0 wt%, 5 wt%, and 10 wt%). The fabrication is made using an extruder and injection molding techniques. The PALF/PP composite properties are then investigated based on thermal, mechanical, water absorption, and morphological properties. The results found that PALF/PP composites are high in thermal resistance. A comparison of the experimental values for the tensile strength shows that the tensile strength increases with the increase in PALF loading. The study also found that PP, PP/PALF 5%wt, and PP/PALF 10%wt composites absorbed less water. Overall, the prepared PALF/PP composites can withstand high temperatures and have high mechanical strength. The composites also exhibit low water absorption, which is a good criterion for paneling products such as furniture and decorative panels.
Improved Dielectric Characteristics of PVA–BiFeO3–Polystyrene 2% Divinyl Benzene Composites
Authors: Dubey Pragya , Chakroborty Subhendu , Moharana Srikanta , Jain Ritesh , Yadav Tarun , Malviya Jitendra , Nath Nibedita , Barik Arundhati
Published: February 2025

In this study, the dielectric performances of PVA–BFO–PDB composite films are evaluated. The composites are synthesized by a solution casting technique. These composite material exhibits a significantly elevated dielectric constant and reduced dielectric loss. This composite material is synthesized by blending polyvinyl alcohol as the polymer matrix with bismuth ferrite (BFO) and polystyrene 2% divinylbenzene (PDB) as fillers. The dielectric characteristics of composite films consisting of PVA, BFO, and PDB are examined over a broad frequency range and varying weight percentages of PDB at room temperature. The PVA–BFO–PDB composite films show a high dielectric constant (≈91) with a dielectric loss factor of approximately <1 at 102 Hz when the PDB content is at 10 wt%. The synthesized PVA composites with improved dielectric performance find their application in potential energy storage devices.
Assessing the Ecological Effects of Imidazolium Hydrogen Sulfate and Morpholinium Tetrafluoroborate Ionic Liquids on Mixed Culture Growth
Authors: Rahman Nurul Aliaa , Abdullah Syamsul Bahari , Zain Salwanis Md. , Samsudin Ahmad Salihin , Omar Suhaila , Bustam Mohamad Azmi , Rahman Roshanida A. , Idris Alamin , Yussof Hafizuddin Wan
Published: February 2025

Nowadays, ionic liquids (ILs) have extensive applications in biotechnology and are classified as green solvents. However, there are significant concerns over the effect of ILs on microorganism growth, especially towards mixed microorganisms. This study sets out to investigate the effect of synthesized ILs, particularly imidazolium hydrogen sulfate [IM][HSO4] and morpholinium tetrafluoroborate [MOR][BF4], towards mixed culture microorganisms, mainly identified as Bacillus cereus, Bacillus thuringiensis, and Pseudallescheria boydii. The toxicity effect of both ILs is assessed through the disk diffusion method. Moreover, the ecological effects of mixed culture growth on ILs are analyzed by conducting the growth inhibition test in fermentation liquid media. This study reveals that the growth of mixed culture microorganisms started to decline after 4 and 5 h of injecting the [IM][HSO4] and [MOR][BF4], respectively. This shows that mixed culture microorganisms have a longstanding growth and the least inhibition effect after being exposed to [MOR][BF4] rather than [IM][HSO4]. Similar findings are observed regarding the inhibitory effects, with [MOR][BF4] showing a smaller inhibition zone compared to [IM][HSO4]. This finding clearly indicates that imidazolium based ILs are more toxic than morpholinium based ILs. The present study lays the groundwork for further experimental investigation on [MOR][BF4] towards mixed culture microorganisms through the structural characteristics, explicitly focusing on using ILs without the alkyl chain.
Viability of the Proposed Alternative Refrigerants as Future Refrigerants
Authors: Usman Abdullahi , Priyadarshini Saigeeta , Mishra Akanksha , Singh Pramod K , Adam Ahmad Muhammad , Payal Himanshu , Noor I. M.
Published: February 2025

Globally, the need of future refrigerant is becoming important to save the environment owing to the increase of urbanization and industrialization. The rate of accumulation of greenhouse gasses (GHG) from refrigerants depends on the rate of increase in urbanization and industrialization. However, the candidature of different classes of refrigerants to the stage of future refrigerants has been hindered by different challenges. Hence, the developments achieved in eliminating the various challenges has been studied through literature and the viability status of those classes of refrigerants has been improvised on the basis of green refrigeration, thermodynamic properties, performances and system design approaches. This paper reviews viability of most recently proposed refrigerants as future refrigerants. Hydrofluoroolefin (HFO) is the most viable class of refrigerants because of improvements noted in the challenges that hinder its future scope. Carbon dioxide (R‐744) has also a viable scope of future refrigerants under controlled operating condition. In addition to that for ultra low temperature (ULT) refrigeration system, R‐170, R‐1132a, and R41 have been considered as most viable refrigerants.
Polymer Materials in Daily Life: Classification, Applications, Recent Developments, and Future Prospects
Authors: Sharma Sandhya , Sarangi Pradeepta Kumar , Sahoo Ashok Kumar
Published: February 2025

Polymer materials are an important part of everyday life, it is imperative to examine their properties, diverse applications, and their impact on the life of an individual. Polymers are vital in daily experiences from medical devices to household items. This study explores the characteristics of polymers that make them useful for various applications, emphasizing their adaptability, robustness, and affordability. The environmental aspects of polymer consumption are also covered, covering the difficulties and developments in sustainable polymer development. All things considered, this study clarifies the crucial part of polymer materials that play in improving and forming the standard of daily lives. This study also aims to find the recent as well as future developments in the field of polymers.
Fiberglass Interwoven Substrate Laminated Penta‐Band Microstrip Antenna
Authors: Banda Yamiko Daniel , Yadav Anupam Kumar , Singh Sandeep Kumar , Saran Tripurari , Savilov Serguei V. , Yahya M.Z.A.
Published: February 2025

This work describes the design and characterization of a compact rectangular microstrip patch antenna for pentaband applications, including antenna geometry optimization and feedline alignment. The design uses flame‐retarded woven fiberglass (FR‐4) substrate material with circular slits on a rectangular radiating stub for broad impedance bandwidth. Antenna‐2 proposes penta‐band applications in Wi‐MAX (3.5 GHz, 3.4–3.69), WLAN (5.2 GHz, 5.15–5.35), 5G (3.5–6.0 GHz), C‐band (4.0–8.0 GHz), and 6G (7.0–20 GHz; mid‐band) current wireless communications. The suggested antenna has good impedance matching and low reflection power loss across the important frequencies, according to S‐parameter |S11| measurements. This means microwave frequency applications can transmit and receive efficiently.
Application of Angelica archangelica Phytomaterials as Inhibitors of SARS‐CoV‐2 Main Protease Receptor
Authors: Kumari Ruchi , Singh Yogita , Shahid Misbah , Jain Preeti
Published: February 2025

The proteins N and M, 3′‐5′ exoribonuclease (nsp14), viral proteases, and RNA dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) are required for different stages of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) viral replication. For many antiviral therapies, these are thus desirable targets. Due to the primary protease's differences from human proteases, it is thought to be a suitable therapeutic target. Phytochemicals with antiviral characteristics are possible strong weapons in the fight against SAR‐CoV‐2. Coumarins are one type of phytochemical found in Angelica archangelica L. that can possibly be utilized to produce an alternative natural antiviral molecule. Forty‐six bioactive phytochemicals selected from A. archangelica therapeutic plant are found to have an antiviral effect against SARS‐CoV‐2 protease. From the screened compounds, terpinen‐4‐ol and coniferyl ferulate exhibit strong molecular bonding interaction in molecular docking study with the binding energies (−8.82) to (−10.11) kcal mol−1 against main protease receptor protein (pdb id: 6lu7 and 6w63) of SARS‐CoV‐2, individually. The major mode of binding is H‐bonding majorly with the participation of dynamic spot catalytic residue HIS‐41 and CYS‐145. Coniferyl ferulate has a maximum binding energy of −10.11 and −11.23 kcal mol−1 in complexation along the proteases receptor (6lu7 and 6w63). Coniferyl ferulate is a stronger COVID‐19 inhibitor, which ought to be investigated as a potential therapeutic target for this virus.
Biodegradable Polymeric Nanocomposite for Wound Healing Application
Authors: Tiwari Seema , Jain Nidhi , Bhosle Sonali , Ganure K. A. , Chandola Mridula
Published: February 2025

For the application of various substances to wounds, it is appealing to discover a bearer material that is moderately modest in terms of medicinal behavior and gets effectively connected to the injury and helps as a decent transporter for medicaments without disturbing its property of biodegradability. In this work biodegradable composites consisting of chitosan, sodium alginate (SA), and gelatin with neem extract are synthesized. XRD, FTIR, and SEM analysis are used to characterize these polymeric films. Chitosan can be spread as a gel layer on the wound along with other biodegradable wound‐healing material with their antimicrobial and antibacterial properties for effective healing.
CircST6GALNAC6 Inhibits Glycolysis of Bladder Cancer by Regulating PRKN/HK1 Signaling Pathway
Authors: Zuo Yali , Ren Da , He Haiqing , Huang Changkun , Zhu Xuan
Published: February 2025

Bladder cancer (BCa) is an aggressive malignancy of urinary system. Aerobic glycolysis refers to the phenomenon wherein cancer cells increase glucose consumption and produce lactic acid. Our study focused on the role and mechanism of circST6GALNAC6 in BCa glycolysis. The 24 h glucose intake was detected using flow cytometry. Lactic acid and ATP were detected in BCa cells utilizing commercially provided kits. Extracellular acidification rate was measured using Seahorse XF‐96p Extracellular Flux Analyzer. Cell proliferation was determined using colony formation assay. RNA immunoprecipitation and co‐immunoprecipitation experiments were adopted to validate molecular interactions. BALB/C nude mice were utilized to establish xenograft tumor model. CircST6GALNAC6 was decreased in BCa cells, and overexpression of circST6GALNAC6 inhibited glycolysis and proliferation of BCa cells. Additionally, overexpression of circST6GALNAC6 promoted the degradation of glycolytic regulatory protein HK1 and decreased its expression, and PRKN facilitated ubiquitination‐related degradation of HK1. CircST6GALNAC6 enhanced the mRNA stability and expression of PRKN by recruiting FUS. Furthermore, the inhibitory impact of circST6GALNAC6 overexpression on glycolysis in BCa cells was reversed by PRKN knockdown. Finally, overexpression of circST6GALNAC6 suppressed tumor growth through increasing PRKN in nude mice. CircST6GALNAC6 suppressed glycolysis in BCa through FUS/PRKN/HK1 axis. Targeting circST6GALNAC6 holds promise as a novel approach for treating BCa.
Exosomes: a double‐edged sword in cancer immunotherapy
Authors: Chen Jiayi , Hu Siyuan , Liu Jiayi , Jiang Hao , Wang Simiao , Yang Zhaogang
Published: February 2025

Over the past few decades, immunotherapy has emerged as a powerful strategy to overcome the limitations of conventional cancer treatments. The use of extracellular vesicles, particularly exosomes, which carry cargoes capable of modulating the immune response, has been extensively explored as a potential therapeutic approach in cancer immunotherapy. Exosomes can deliver their cargo to target cells, thereby influencing their phenotype and immunomodulatory functions. They exhibit either immunosuppressive or immune‐activating characteristics, depending on their internal contents. These exosomes originate from diverse cell sources, and their internal contents can vary, suggesting that there may be a delicate balance between immune suppression and stimulation when utilizing them for immunotherapy. Therefore, a thorough understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying the role of exosomes in cancer progression is essential. This review focuses on the molecular mechanisms driving exosome function and their impact on the tumor microenvironment (TME), highlighting the intricate balance between immune suppression and activation that must be navigated in exosome‐based therapies. Additionally, it underscores the challenges and ongoing efforts to optimize exosome‐based immunotherapies, thereby making a significant contribution to the advancement of cancer immunotherapy research.
Early Feeding After Free Flap Reconstruction for Oral Cavity Cancer: A Single Institution Retrospective Review
Authors: Barlow Joshua , Little Christine , Chennareddy Susmita , Ferrandino Rocco , Kappauf Catharine , Kotz Tamar , Berger Michael , Kirke Diana N. , Teng Marita S. , Genden Eric M. , Khan Mohemmed N. , Roof Scott A.
Published: February 2025

Objective

Patients undergoing free flap reconstruction of the oral cavity have traditionally received nothing by mouth for 6–14 days postoperatively to limit the risk of wound complications. Growing evidence suggests that initiation of oral intake may not increase the morbidity. This study further investigates the utility of “early feeding.”

Methods

This was a retrospective cohort study conducted at a large, urban tertiary healthcare system. Patients who underwent free flap reconstruction for oral cavity cancer between June 1, 2020, and October 31, 2022, were grouped as early feeding (oral intake on or before Postoperative Day 5) or late feeding (LF) (oral intake after Postoperative Day 5). Outcomes included rate of orocutaneous fistula, development of other local or systemic complications, and hospital length of stay (LOS).

Results

Sixty six patients were studied, with 26 belonging to the LF group and 40 to the early feeding (EF) group. The LF group was significantly older (median age 64.5 vs. 80 years, p = 0.027) and more likely to have a defect extending beyond the oral cavity (25.0% vs. 50.0%, p = 0.037). No significant differences were found in orocutaneous fistula formation between the LF and EF groups (7.7% vs. 0%, p = 0.152), but the rate of total complications was significantly higher in the LF group (38.5% vs. 12.5%, p = 0.014). LOS was significantly longer in the LF group (12.5 vs. 6 days, p < 0.001).

Conclusion

These findings suggest that in the correctly suggested patient population, early postoperative oral intake may facilitate earlier hospital discharge without increasing the risk of postoperative complications.
Applying deep generative model in plan review of intensity modulated radiotherapy
Authors: Huang Peng , Shang Jiawen , Fan Yuhan , Chang Zhixing , Xu Yingjie , Zhang Ke , Hu Zhihui , Dai Jianrong , Yan Hui
Published: February 2025

Background

Plan review is critical for safely delivering radiation dose to a patient under radiotherapy and mainly performed by medical physicist in routine clinical practice. Recently, the deep‐learning models have been used to assist this manual process. As black‐box models the reason for their predictions are unknown. Thus, it is important to improve the model interpretability to make them more reliable for clinical deployment.

Purpose

To alleviate this issue, a deep generative model, adversarial autoencoder networks (AAE), was employed to automatically detect anomalies in intensity‐modulated radiotherapy plans.

Methods

The typical plan parameters (collimator position, gantry angle, monitor unit, etc.) were collected to form a feature vector for the training sample. The reconstruction error was the difference between the output and input of the model. Based on the distribution of reconstruction errors of the training samples, a detection threshold was determined. For a test plan, its reconstruction error obtained by the learned model was compared with the threshold to determine its category (anomaly or regular). The model was tested with four network settings. It was also compared with the vanilla AE and the other six classic models. The area under receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) along with other statistical metrics was employed for evaluation.

Results

The AAE model achieved the highest accuracy (AUC = 0.997). The AUCs of the other seven classic methods are 0.935 (AE), 0.981 (K‐means), 0.896 (principle component analysis), 0.978 (one‐class support vector machine), 0.934 (local outlier factor), and 0.944 (hierarchical density‐based spatial clustering of applications with noise), and 0.882 (isolation forest). This indicates that AAE model could detect more anomalous plans with less false positive rate.

Conclusions

The AAE model can effectively detect anomaly in radiotherapy plans for lung cancer patients. Comparing with the vanialla AE and other classic detection models, the AAE model is more accurate and transparent. The proposed AAE model can improve the interpretability of the results for radiotherapy plan review.
Simulation parameter matrix capture and validation of a composite continuous damage model in LS‐DYNA
Authors: Sui Zehuan , Wang Fusheng , Song Tong , Zhang Hanghua , Chen Yajun
Published: February 2025

In this study, the acquisition and validation of the high‐performance carbon fiber‐reinforced polymer (CFRP) composite continuous damage model MAT_261 parameter matrix in LS‐DYNA were investigated to achieve the accuracy of finite element modeling. Through experiments and single element tests, the key parameters were systematically sorted out and captured. Then, the shell element model of composite laminate was established and the parameter matrix was further verified by the drop‐weight impact test. The results show that the fracture toughness of longitudinal tension/compression and transverse tension/compression are 453.89, 114.44, 0.53, and 7.52 kJ/m2, respectively. Under the impact energy of 100, 150, 200 J, the load–displacement curves obtained by using MAT_261 are in good agreement with the actual test results. The peak load error is 2.80%, 1.38% and 1.12%, respectively. As a result, the verified MAT_261 simulation parameter matrix can accurately predict the damage failure behavior of CFRP laminates under dynamic impact.

Highlights

LS‐DYNA material model MAT_261 parameter matrix was accurately captured.

The testing and validation process of important parameters was established.

Intralaminar fracture toughness were obtained by double‐edge notched tests.

The peak load errors of the impact simulation results were less than 3%.

The prediction of impact results of CFRP laminates is reliable and efficient.
Mathematical method for describing the dynamic wear coefficient of FRP‐cemented carbide couple during continuous relative sliding
Authors: Zhang Boyu , Zhang Canbao , Sun Kai , Kong Lingman , Tian Bo , Chang Meng , Jian Xigao
Published: February 2025

In edge trimming of fiber reinforced plastic composites (FRPs), the friction couple consisting of the cemented carbide tool and FRP undergoes continuous relative sliding. The tribological properties, represented by the wear coefficient, change dynamically with the relative motion distance and varying temperature‐force conditions. Its value must be accurately determined to establish a solid foundation for developing advanced tool wear models. This paper presents a new method to mathematically describe such dynamic wear coefficient. The basic variation pattern is represented by a piecewise function, which includes a descending stage followed by a stable stage. The key function coefficients are correlated with varying temperature‐force conditions through a machine learning model. The results suggest that the wear coefficient generally exhibits a positive correlation with both normal force and temperature, as the increase in these factors accelerates the detachment of carbide particles. Furthermore, the wear coefficient of the friction couple containing FRP with better heat resistance increases at a faster rate with temperature, as the FRP with stable properties can more efficiently remove carbide particles from the softened cemented carbide surface in high‐temperature range. This work provides a crucial foundation for improving tool wear models from the perspective of scientifically adjusting the wear coefficient.

Highlights

A piecewise function is defined to describe variation pattern of wear coeff.

Non‐constant function coefficients are determined by machine learning modeling.

The variation in detachment rate of carbide particles causes changes in wear coeff.

The wear coeff. generally increases with the normal force and the temperature.

The heat resistance of the FRP affects rising rate of wear coeff. with temperature.
Acceptability of Telehealth Post‐Pandemic Among Clinicians Across the United States Caring for People With Cystic Fibrosis
Authors: Davis Jaclyn , Perkins Ryan , Bailey Julianna , Chaudary Nauman , Garcia Bryan , Froh Deborah , Powers Mike , Siracusa Christopher , Sawicki Gregory S.
Published: February 2025

Background

The COVID‐19 pandemic ushered widespread adoption of telehealth (TH) by cystic fibrosis (CF) centers in the USA. TH was initially described as well‐accepted by both clinicians and patients. As we move past the unusual circumstances of the pandemic, the sustainability of TH remains untested. This study sought to test the durability of clinician perceptions of TH post‐pandemic.

Methods

This is a cross‐sectional, survey study of clinicians at seven US CF centers. We refined a previously disseminated survey initially designed to assess clinician perceptions of TH in 2020. Survey results were analyzed using descriptive statistics and current responses were compared to prior results.

Results

Clinician perceptions surrounding TH remain high but have changed over time with 75% now endorsing satisfaction (90% in 2020, p = 0.02). The most cited barriers were technology limitations (68%) and limited in‐person assessments (66%). We found a significant decrease in concern over missing in‐person assessments compared to 2020. Benefits of TH included convenience for patients and families (100%) and reduction in missed days of school or work (100%). In total, 83% of current respondents felt TH should remain part of routine CF care. A majority indicated certain patient characteristics increased their preference to conduct at least one TH visit per year.

Conclusions

Despite restoration of full access to in‐person care, clinicians caring for pwCF continue to use TH across the surveyed CF centers post‐pandemic. Respondents continue to view TH favorably. Further study is needed to understand for which patient and clinical scenarios TH is most appropriate.
The Role of Ion Channels in Pulmonary Hypertension: A Review
Authors: Li Han‐Fei , Li Xin‐Yao , Sun Yu‐Qing , Zhi Ze‐Ying , Song Liao‐Fan , Li Meng , Feng Yi‐Ming , Zhang Zhi‐Hao , Liu Yan‐Feng , Chen Yu‐Jing , Zhao Fan‐Rong , Zhu Tian‐Tian
Published: February 2025

Pulmonary hypertension (PH) constitutes a critical challenge in cardiopulmonary medicine with a pathogenesis that is multifaceted and intricate. Ion channels, crucial determinants of cellular electrochemical gradient modulation, have emerged as significant participants in the pathophysiological progression of PH. These channels, abundant on the membranes of pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells (PASMCs) and pulmonary artery endothelial cells (PAECs), pivotally navigate the nuanced interplay of cell proliferation, migration, and endothelial function, each vital to the pulmonary vascular remodeling (PVR) hallmark of PH. Our review delves into the mechanistic insights of potassium, calcium, magnesium, zinc, and chloride ion channels in relation to their involvement in PH. It not only emphasizes the notable advances and discoveries that cast these ion channels as underlying factors in the etiology and exacerbation of PH but also highlights their potential as innovative therapeutic targets.
One‐Step Implementation of Time‐Optimal Three‐Qubit Nonadiabatic Holonomic Gates via Dipole–Dipole Interaction in Rydberg Atoms
Authors: Liu Shuai , Yang Han , Qin Jia‐Xi , Ran Du , Kang Yi‐Hao , Xia Yan
Published: February 2025

In this study, a one‐step scheme is proposed to implement time‐optimal three‐qubit nonadiabatic holonomic gates using unconventional Rydberg pumping mechanism. The system dynamics of three Rydberg atoms are investigated in the regime of dipole–dipole interaction, which may provide relatively strong interaction strengths. By analyzing the system dynamics of three atoms, an effective three‐level interaction Hamiltonian is derived. Based on this, a three‐qubit nonadiabatic holonomic gate can be implemented in one step by modulating Rabi frequencies of control pulses on the target atom. The scheme is further optimized using time‐optimal control technology based on quantum‐brachistochrone formalism, which minimizes the evolution time of the system and mitigates the influence from the environmental decoherence. Numerical simulations results show that the scheme is robust against the Doppler dephasing error, system parameter variations, and atomic spontaneous emissions. Therefore, it is hoped that the scheme may facilitate the realization of fault‐tolerant quantum computation in Rydberg atoms.
The Emotional Valence of Hyperrationality in STEM Learning: Reinscriptions and Contestations of Coloniality
Authors: Davis Natalie R. , Philip Thomas M.
Published: February 2025

As part of the special issue Centering Affect and Emotion Toward Justice and Dignity in Science Education, this paper examines the emergence and performance of hyperrationality in STEM classrooms. Hyperrationality describes verbal and embodied expressions whereby learners try to maintain an appearance of neutrality and emotional distance to give credence to political, socioscientific convictions, even under conditions where complete emotional detachment would be unconscionable. Hyperrationality in STEM learning environments poses a threat to human dignity (Espinoza et al. 2020) by reinscribing approaches to STEM that devalue the lives and lived experiences of those “othered”. We present a comparative analysis of cases taken from our respective (individual) studies focused on ethics, historicity, politics, and STEM learning. The first case is drawn from an undergraduate engineering ethics class discussion of militarized drones. The second case is from a year‐long socioscientific unit on water enacted with Black children in a city wrestling with water shut‐offs. In our analysis of these two cases, we consider how hyperrationality, the ungrievability of the other and racialized fear become components of interpretative repertoires that learners co‐construct to compartmentalize and/or partially reconcile the inherent contradictions arising from these entanglements. Our cases evidence the emotional configurations of colonality that reinscribe imperialism, while also recognizing when/how nondominant communities resist these logics as they surface in STEM classrooms.