bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Visual Impairment Spatial Awareness System for Indoor Navigation and Daily Activities
Authors: Yu Xinrui , Saniie Jafar
Published: January 2025

The integration of artificial intelligence into daily life significantly enhances the autonomy and quality of life of visually impaired individuals. This paper introduces the Visual Impairment Spatial Awareness (VISA) system, designed to holistically assist visually impaired users in indoor activities through a structured, multi-level approach. At the foundational level, the system employs augmented reality (AR) markers for indoor positioning, neural networks for advanced object detection and tracking, and depth information for precise object localization. At the intermediate level, it integrates data from these technologies to aid in complex navigational tasks such as obstacle avoidance and pathfinding. The advanced level synthesizes these capabilities to enhance spatial awareness, enabling users to navigate complex environments and locate specific items. The VISA system exhibits an efficient human–machine interface (HMI), incorporating text-to-speech and speech-to-text technologies for natural and intuitive communication. Evaluations in simulated real-world environments demonstrate that the system allows users to interact naturally and with minimal effort. Our experimental results confirm that the VISA system efficiently assists visually impaired users in indoor navigation, object detection and localization, and label and text recognition, thereby significantly enhancing their spatial awareness and independence.
The Transcription of Transposable Elements Differentially Regulated by SVAs in the Major Histocompatibility Complex Class I Region of a Parkinson’s Progression Markers Initiative Cohort
Authors: Kulski Jerzy K. , Pfaff Abigail L. , Koks Sulev
Published: January 2025

Background/Objectives: The highly polymorphic Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC) genomic region, located on the short arm of chromosome 6, is implicated genetically in Parkinson’s disease (PD), a progressive neurodegenerative disorder with motor and non-motor symptoms. Previously, we reported significant associations between SINE-VNTR-Alu (SVA) expression quantitative trait loci (eQTLs) and Human Leucocyte Antigen (HLA) class I genotypes in PD. In this study, we aimed to evaluate SVA associations and their regulatory effects on transposable element (TE) transcription in the MHC class I region. Methods: Transcriptome data from the peripheral blood cells of 1530 individuals in the Parkinson’s Progression Markers Initiative (PPMI) cohort were reanalyzed for TE and gene expression using publicly available bioinformatics tools, including Salmon and Matrix-eQTL. Results: Four structurally polymorphic SVAs regulated the transcription of 18 distinct clusters of 235 TE loci, comprising LINEs (33%), SINEs (19%), LTRs (35%), and ancient transposon DNA elements (12%) located near HLA genes. The transcribed TEs were predominantly short, with an average length of 445 nucleotides. The regulatory effects of these SVAs varied significantly in terms of TE types, numbers, and transcriptional activation or repression. The SVA-regulated TE RNAs in blood cells appear to function as enhancer-like elements, differentially influencing the expression of HLA class I genes, non-HLA genes, and noncoding RNAs. Conclusions: These findings highlight the roles of SVAs and their associated TEs in the complex regulatory networks governing coding and noncoding gene expression in the MHC class I region, with potential implications for immune function and disease susceptibility.
Assessment of Tidal and Wave Energy Resource Potential in Malaysia with Sea Level Rise Effects
Authors: Yaakop Zahara , Teh Hee-Min , Venugopal Vengatesan , Ma Zhe
Published: January 2025

Ocean energy, e.g., waves, tidal current, and thermal and salinity gradient, can be used to produce electricity. These marine-based renewable energy technologies are at relatively early stages of development and potentially deployed at various sea conditions. In the past, numerous studies were undertaken to explore the feasibility of harvesting of the marine energy in Malaysia; however, those studies were limited to a specific location (i.e., the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia and East Malaysia) and the consideration of sea level rise effect was not studied. This study assessed the potential of tidal and wave energy resources in Malaysia’s waters with the effect of projected sea level rise and was undertaken through numerical modeling using MIKE 21 software. The research outcomes were tidal and wave energy contours for Malaysia’s waters with an inclusion of the sea level rise projection for 2060 and 2100, as well as a potential site determined for tidal and wave energy harvesting. The simulation results highlight the significant potential of tidal and wave energy in specific locations around Malaysia and its coastal regions, as well as in the South China Sea’s offshore regions. By incorporating sea level rise projections into tidal and wave simulations, we revealed a notable increase in tidal and wave power.
Modeling the Hydrodynamic Pressure Field and Wake Field Characteristics of an Underwater Vehicle and Studying Their Correlation
Authors: Li Peihao , Deng Hui , Xu Bingrui , Xia Weixue , Yi Wenbin
Published: January 2025

The hydrodynamic pressure field and wake field generated by an advancing underwater vehicle are used as key factors for its detection and identification. In this paper, a numerical method is established based on the Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes equation. Following grid convergence verification for seven kinds of grids, the differences between the hydrodynamic pressure field and wake field are investigated using the gridding method and turbulence model. Subsequently, on a validation basis, the characteristics and correlation of the hydrodynamic pressure field and wake field for an underwater vehicle at different water depths are studied, showing that the SST turbulence model is applicable to underwater vehicle hydrodynamic pressure fields with low grid requirements. A high grid density and the LES turbulence model are needed to accurately capture information about the wake field’s flow field. As the underwater vehicle approaches the bottom, the hydrodynamic pressure field characteristics change significantly, and the wake field characteristics do not significantly change. In the region behind the hull, the influence of the wake field on the hydrodynamic pressure field is complex, but it has a short acting distance. The correlation in the area behind the hull is crucial for identifying, detecting, and tracking targets.
Astronomical Chronology Framework of the Lingshui Formation (Oligocene) in the Northern South China Sea
Authors: Liang Jianhao , Wang Yaning , Zhang Shangfeng , Liang Yubing , Gong Gaoyang , Han Rui
Published: January 2025

This study has determined the period of sedimentation of the Lingshui Formation as the Oligocene (Rupelian-Chattian) through biostratigraphic data, including planktonic foraminifera zonation. The astronomical timescale framework for the Lingshui Formation was accurately constructed by integrating geophysical logging data and employing a multidisciplinary approach that includes time series analysis, cyclostratigraphy, astronomical dating, and Power Ratio Accumulation (PRA) methods. Sensitivity analysis of PRA has shown that natural gamma (GR) is the optimal paleoclimatic proxy, laying the foundation for subsequent analyses. The optimal sedimentation rate for the Lingshui Formation, determined by combining the coefficient of correlation (COCO) method with PRA analysis, is 5–5.4 cm/kyr. The duration of the Lingshui Formation was established at 5.02 Ma (28.52 Ma–23.5 Ma) based on time series analysis and astronomical tuning. The sediment noise model has revealed that the ~1.2 Myr obliquity modulation period has a significant impact on sea-level changes, further confirming the stratigraphic control of astronomical forcing on the sedimentation rate of the Lingshui Formation. This study establishes a high-precision astronomical timescale framework for the Lingshui Formation and provides a robust methodology, offering scientific basis for the research in astronomical chronostratigraphy and cycle stratigraphy, which has significant potential implications.
Diversity and Functional Insights into Endophytic Fungi in Halophytes from West Ordos Desert Ecosystems
Authors: Wang Xingzhe , Zhang Yan , Li Jingpeng , Ding Yiteng , Ma Xiaodan , Zhang Peng , Liu Haijing , Wei Jie , Bao Yuying
Published: January 2025

Arid desert regions are among the harshest ecological environments on Earth. Halophytes, with their unique physiological characteristics and adaptability, have become the dominant vegetation in these areas. Currently, research on halophytes in this region is relatively limited, particularly concerning studies related to their root endophytic fungi, which have been rarely reported on. Therefore, investigating the diversity and composition of endophytic fungi in halophytes is crucial for maintaining ecological balance in such an arid environment. This study focuses on eight representative angiosperm halophytes from the West Ordos Desert in China (including Nitraria tangutorum, Salsola passerina, Suaeda glauca, Reaumuria trigyna, Reaumuria kaschgarica, Limonium aureum, Apocynum venetum, and Tripolium vulgare), utilizing Illumina MiSeq high-throughput sequencing technology combined with soil physicochemical factor data to analyze the diversity, composition, and ecological functions of their root-associated fungal communities. Ascomycota dominated the fungal composition in most halophytes, particularly among the recretohalophytes, where it accounted for an average of 88.45%, while Basidiomycota was predominant in Suaeda glauca. A Circos analysis of the top 10 most abundant genera revealed Fusarium, Dipodascus, Curvularia, Penicillium, and other dominant genera. Co-occurrence network analysis showed significant differences in fungal networks across halophyte types, with the most complex network observed in excreting halophytes, characterized by the highest number of nodes and connections, indicating tighter fungal symbiotic relationships. In contrast, fungal networks in pseudohalophytes were relatively simple, reflecting lower community cohesiveness. Redundancy analysis (RDA) and Mantel tests demonstrated that soil factors such as organic matter, available sulfur, and urease significantly influenced fungal diversity, richness, and evenness, suggesting that soil physicochemical properties play a critical role in regulating fungal–plant symbiosis. Functional predictions indicated that endophytic fungi play important roles in metabolic pathways such as nucleotide biosynthesis, carbohydrate degradation, and lipid metabolism, which may enhance plant survival in saline–alkaline and arid environments. Furthermore, the high abundance of plant pathogens and saprotrophs in some fungal communities suggests their potential roles in plant defense and organic matter decomposition. The results of this study provide a reference for advancing the development and utilization of halophyte endophytic fungal resources, with applications in desert ecosystem restoration and halophyte cultivation.
Microdochium majus Isolated from Grapevine Is a Mycoparasite of Botrytis cinerea
Authors: Váczy Kálmán Zoltán , Szabó Dóra , Molnár Nikolett , Kiss Tibor , Kiss Levente , Tan Yu Pei , Novák Ádám , Pálfi Xénia , Gomba-Tóth Adrienn , Karácsony Zoltán
Published: January 2025

The best known Microdochium spp. are important pathogens of small-grain cereals and/or endophytes of diverse monocot hosts. This study is the first report of M. majus isolated from asymptomatic grapevine tissues. It was hypothesised that this M. majus strain, CBS 152328, was an endophyte and an antagonist of some fungal pathogens of grapevine. Microscopic examinations revealed that this strain was a necrotrophic mycoparasite of Botrytis cinerea. This was demonstrated in the confrontation zones of dual cultures of M. majus and B. cinerea, and also on the surface of co-inoculated grape leaf discs and germinated wheat grains. Pathogenicity tests indicated that M. majus can colonise both grape leaf discs and germinated wheat, but it only damaged wheat. When co-inoculated with B. cinerea onto grape leaf discs, the M. majus strain CBS 152328 suppressed its mycohost on grape tissues and prevented leaf necrosis caused by B. cinerea. In addition to the parasitism, M. majus also showed mild antibiosis against B. cinerea, as well as a defence elicitor effect on grape leaf discs. This work is the first report of the mycoparasitic behaviour of M. majus, in addition to its first isolation from a dicot host.
Ex Situ Conservation, DNA Barcoding and Enzymatic Potential Evaluation of Macrofungi (Basidiomycota, Ascomycota) from Vietnam
Authors: Psurtseva Nadezhda V. , Kiyashko Anna A. , Senik Svetlana V. , Pham Thi Ha Giang
Published: January 2025

The diversity and resource potential of macroscopic fungi in tropical regions remain understudied. Vietnam, being in a biodiversity hotspot, has a large number of new fungal species that are of interest for biotechnology and medicine. The presence of a large number of protected areas in Vietnam creates favorable opportunities for the study and ex situ conservation of tropical biodiversity. From 2012 to 2023, 785 strains of macrofungi from National Parks of Vietnam were preserved in the LE-BIN collection, 327 of which were barcoded with the sequences deposited in the NCBI GenBank. A taxonomic analysis demonstrated that many of the preserved isolates are potentially new or poorly studied species, representing a useful resource for taxonomical studies and a search for new medicinal mushrooms. More than 180 strains were studied for the first time for growth rate and enzymatic activities. Of these, 53 strains showed high growth rate, 43—high cellulolytic activity, 73—high oxidative enzymes activity, and 27 showed high proteolytic activity, making them promising candidates for biotechnological and medical applications and opening new opportunities for sustainable biomass management, discovery of new enzymes and bioactive substances, development of new drugs and efficient plant waste treatment technologies. The results confirm the importance of the ex situ conservation of fungal diversity in tropical regions as a valuable source for scientific and commercial applications and suggest certain new active strains for biotechnological study.
Population Structure Based on Microsatellite Length Polymorphism, Antifungal Susceptibility Profile, and Enzymatic Activity of Candida auris Clinical Isolates in Russia
Authors: Oganesyan Ellina , Klimenteva Victoria , Vybornova Irina , Venchakova Valentina , Parshikova Ekaterina , Kovyrshin Sergey , Orlova Olga , Kruglov Alexander , Gordeeva Svetlana , Vasilyeva Natalya , Taraskina Anastasiya
Published: January 2025

Candida auris is an emerging multidrug-resistant fungal pathogen causing nosocomial transmission and invasive infections with high mortality. This study aimed to investigate the genetic relationships, enzymatic activities, and drug-resistance profiles of C. auris isolates to evaluate the population and epidemiological diversity of candidiasis in Russia. A total of 112 clinical isolates of C. auris were analyzed from May 2017 to March 2023 in 18 hospitals across Saint Petersburg, the Leningrad Region, and Moscow. Species identification was confirmed by ITS sequencing, and genotyping was performed using 12 short tandem repeat (STR) markers. Antifungal susceptibility was tested using Sensititre™ YeastOne™ plates, and hydrolytic enzyme production was measured by the plate method. ITS sequencing confirmed that all isolates belonged to a single ITS cluster (clades I and III). Fifteen distinct STR genotypes were identified, with genotype I being dominant (n = 53). The most variable of the analyzed markers turned out to be M3-Ia, which was represented in the Russian population by eight different variants. Fluconazole resistance was found in 111 isolates, 17% were resistant to amphotericin B, and 3.6% to 5-flucytosine. Phospholipase activity was strong in most strains, especially in urine isolates (p = 0.014). Conclusion: The predominance of STR genotype I and its variability at the M3-Ia locus suggest its association with nosocomial outbreaks and transmissibility in Russia.
Roles of the Sec2p Gene in the Growth and Pathogenicity Regulation of Aspergillus fumigatus
Authors: Liu Yuhuan , Shang Shumi , Liu Cong , Liu Yichen , Xu Keyang , He Dan , Wang Li
Published: January 2025

Aspergillus fumigatus (A. fumigatus) is a filamentous fungus that causes invasive aspergillosis in immunocompromised individuals. Regulating fungal growth is crucial for preventing disease development. This study found that deleting the guanine nucleotide exchange factor Sec2p gene led to slower A. fumigatus growth and reduced the fungal burden and mortality of infected mice. However, the mechanism by which this gene affects A. fumigatus growth and pathogenicity remains unclear. Transmission electron microscopy revealed that the vacuoles of the gene knockout strain ΔSec2p accumulated more autophagosomes, indicating inhibition of autophagosome degradation. When phenylmethylsulfonyl fluoride was applied to inhibit autophagosome degradation, the ΔSec2p strain produced fewer autophagosomes; the ΔSec2p autophagy pathway was inhibited, affecting A. fumigatus’ nutrient homeostasis and growth. Unlike the wild type, the ΔSec2p strain showed strong resistance to cell wall stress. When exposed to caspofungin, Sec2p negatively regulated the expression of cell wall integrity (CWI) pathway genes and participated in the cell wall stress response of A. fumigatus. Furthermore, this gene positively regulated the autophagy pathway and enhanced CWI pathway gene expression to respond to rapamycin-induced autophagy. In summary, Sec2p positively regulated the autophagy pathway; it negatively regulated the CWI pathway during cell wall stress, coordinating the growth and pathogenicity of A. fumigatus.
Validation of Monilinia fructicola Putative Effector Genes in Different Host Peach (Prunus persica) Cultivars and Defense Response Investigation
Authors: Landi Lucia , D’Ortenzio Annamaria Lucrezia , Makau Sarah Mojela , De Miccolis Angelini Rita Milvia , Romanazzi Gianfranco
Published: January 2025

Monilinia fructicola is the most common and destructive brown rot agent on peaches. Knowledge of gene expression mediating host–pathogen interaction is essential to manage fungal plant diseases. M. fructicola putative virulence factors have been predicted by genome investigations. The pathogen interaction with the host was validated. Five M. fructicola isolates were inoculated on two cultivars (cv.s) of peach (Prunus persica (L.) Batsch) ‘Royal Summer’ and ‘Messapia’ with intermediate and late ripening periods, respectively. The expression pattern of 17 candidate effector genes of M. fructicola with functions linked to host invasion and fungal life, and seven peach genes involved in the immune defense system were monitored at 0, 2, 6, 10, and 24 h-post inoculation (hpi). All fungal isolates induced similar brown rot lesions on both cv.s whereas the modulation of effector genes was regulated mainly at 2, 6, and 10 hpi, when disease symptoms appeared on the fruit surface, confirming the involvement of effector genes in the early infection stage. Although differences were observed among the fungal isolates, the principal component investigation identified the main differences linked to the host genotype. The salicylic acid and jasmonate/ethylene signaling pathways were differently modulated in the host independent from the fungal isolate used for inoculation. On plants susceptible to brown rot, the pathogen may have adapted to the host’s physiology by modulating its effectors as weapons.
Patient-Specific Variability in Interleukin-6 and Myeloperoxidase Responses in Osteoarthritis: Insights from Synthetic Data and Clustering Analysis
Authors: Coleman Laura Jane , Byrne John L. , Edwards Stuart , O’Hara Rosemary
Published: January 2025

Objectives: This study investigated the inflammatory responses of fibroblast-like synoviocytes (FLS) isolated from osteoarthritis (OA) patients, stimulated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and interleukin-6 (IL-6). Both experimental and synthetic data were utilised to investigate the variability in IL-6 and myeloperoxidase (MPO) production and its implications for OA pathogenesis. Methods: Synovial biopsies were obtained from OA patients undergoing joint replacement surgery. FLS were isolated, cultured, and stimulated with varying concentrations of LPS and IL-6. The production of IL-6 and MPO was measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA). Synthetic data generation techniques expanded the dataset to support comprehensive statistical analyses. Results: The patterns of inflammatory responses revealed distinct patient subgroups, highlighting individual variability. The integration of synthetic data with experimental observations validated their reliability and demonstrated dose-dependent differences in IL-6 and MPO production across patients. Conclusions: The results highlighted the importance of patient-specific factors in OA inflammation and demonstrated the utility of combining experimental and synthetic data to model individual variability. The results support the development of personalised treatment strategies in OA. Future research should include larger patient datasets and an exploration of molecular mechanisms underlying these responses.
Intraoperative Augmented Reality for Vitreoretinal Surgery Using Edge Computing
Authors: Ye Run Zhou , Iezzi Raymond
Published: January 2025

Purpose: Augmented reality (AR) may allow vitreoretinal surgeons to leverage microscope-integrated digital imaging systems to analyze and highlight key retinal anatomic features in real time, possibly improving safety and precision during surgery. By employing convolutional neural networks (CNNs) for retina vessel segmentation, a retinal coordinate system can be created that allows pre-operative images of capillary non-perfusion or retinal breaks to be digitally aligned and overlayed upon the surgical field in real time. Such technology may be useful in assuring thorough laser treatment of capillary non-perfusion or in using pre-operative optical coherence tomography (OCT) to guide macular surgery when microscope-integrated OCT (MIOCT) is not available. Methods: This study is a retrospective analysis involving the development and testing of a novel image-registration algorithm for vitreoretinal surgery. Fifteen anonymized cases of pars plana vitrectomy with epiretinal membrane peeling, along with corresponding preoperative fundus photographs and optical coherence tomography (OCT) images, were retrospectively collected from the Mayo Clinic database. We developed a TPU (Tensor-Processing Unit)-accelerated CNN for semantic segmentation of retinal vessels from fundus photographs and subsequent real-time image registration in surgical video streams. An iterative patch-wise cross-correlation (IPCC) algorithm was developed for image registration, with a focus on optimizing processing speeds and maintaining high spatial accuracy. The primary outcomes measured were processing speed in frames per second (FPS) and the spatial accuracy of image registration, quantified by the Dice coefficient between registered and manually aligned images. Results: When deployed on an Edge TPU, the CNN model combined with our image-registration algorithm processed video streams at a rate of 14 FPS, which is superior to processing rates achieved on other standard hardware configurations. The IPCC algorithm efficiently aligned pre-operative and intraoperative images, showing high accuracy in comparison to manual registration. Conclusions: This study demonstrates the feasibility of using TPU-accelerated CNNs for enhanced AR in vitreoretinal surgery.
Global Safety and Health: The History of High-Level Biosafety Laboratories Toward Large Scientific Facilities
Authors: Gao Wanying , Wu Zongzhen , Zuo Kunlan , Xiang Qiangyu , Zhang Lu , Chen Xiaoya , Tan Feng , Liu Huan
Published: January 2025

From the perspective of the history of science and technology, this paper delves into the global development of high-level biosafety laboratories, the establishment of related legal frameworks, and the evolution of safety standards. The importance of these laboratories within the context of national security is emphasized. This paper begins with an overview of global high-level biosafety laboratories’ origins and technological advancements. Then, it provides a detailed analysis of the legal and institutional frameworks that different countries have developed in the field of biosafety. By comparing the evolution of laboratory standards across nations, the paper illustrates how high-level biosafety laboratories have adapted to and addressed the international challenges posed by health security and biological threats. This study provides a broad review and analysis of the historical development and technological progress of these laboratories, offering insights into the construction and management of high-level biosafety laboratories. It also provides important historical perspectives for the formulation of future biosafety policies and international cooperation, contributing to the development of more effective strategies to address global biosafety challenges. This review demonstrates the critical role of high-level biosafety laboratories in safeguarding national security and global health, highlighting the continuous need for improving regulatory systems, upgrading standards, and fostering technological innovation.
Study on Intelligent Classing of Public Welfare Forestland in Kunyu City
Authors: Sha Meng , Yang Hua , Wu Jianwei , Qi Jianning
Published: January 2025

Manual forestland classification methods, which rely on predetermined scoring criteria and subjective interpretation, are commonly used but suffer from limitations such as high labor costs, complexity, and lack of scalability. This study proposes an innovative machine learning-based approach to forestland classification, utilizing a Support Vector Machine (SVM) model to automate the classification process and enhance both efficiency and accuracy. The main contributions of this work are as follows: A machine learning model was developed using integrated data from the Third National Land Survey of China, including forestry, grassland, and wetland datasets. Unlike previous approaches, the SVM model is optimized with Grid Search (GS), Genetic Algorithm (GA), and Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) to automatically determine classification parameters, overcoming the limitations of manual rule-based methods. The performance of the SVM model was evaluated using confusion matrices, classification accuracy, and Matthews Correlation Coefficient (MCC). A comprehensive comparison under different optimization techniques revealed significant improvements in classification accuracy and generalization ability over manual classification systems. The experimental results demonstrated that the GA-SVM model achieved classification accuracies of 98.83% (test set) and 99.65% (overall sample), with MCC values of 0.9796 and 0.990, respectively, outpacing other optimization algorithms, including Grid Search (GS) and Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO). The GA-SVM model was applied to classify public welfare forestland in Kunyu City, yielding detailed classifications across various forestland categories. This result provides a more efficient and accurate method for large-scale forestland management, with significant implications for future land use assessments. The findings underscore the advantages of the GA-SVM model in forestland classification: it is efficient, accurate, and easy to operate. This study not only presents a more reliable alternative to conventional rule-based and manual scoring methods but also sets a precedent for using machine learning to automate and optimize forestland classification in future applications.
A Satisfaction Study of Waterfront Public Spaces in Winter Cities from a Demand Perspective: A KANO-IPA Model Analysis Based on Northeastern China
Authors: Yu Ping , Zhang Yu
Published: January 2025

Urban waterfront public space is a key infrastructure for enhancing citizens’ well-being. However, rapid urbanization squeezes out blue and green spaces in cities, and extreme weather challenges exist in winter cities, resulting in unmet needs and a significant decline in citizens’ satisfaction. There is an urgent need to optimize design to bridge the gap between supply and demand. This study proposes a workflow for optimizing the design of waterfront spaces in winter cities based on the KANO-IPA model from the perspective of users’ demands. We constructed a systematic and comprehensive set of spatial demand indicators for waterfront public space in winter cities, covering seven demand dimensions and 42 indicators. A satisfaction survey was conducted across 12 sample reaches in northeastern China. We used the KANO model to classify the attributes of spatial demand indicators, then applied IPA analysis to evaluate them, and finally calculated priority indices to quantify their priority sequences. Based on this, we proposed three-phase optimization strategies: near-term priority upgrading, medium-term steady promotion, and far-term charm enhancement, offering recommendations for improving waterfront public spaces in winter cities. This study provides long-term support for urban regeneration, resource management, and waterfront public space design in winter cities.
M1 and M2 Macrophage Polarization Correlates with Activity and Chronicity Indices in Lupus Nephritis
Authors: Chavanisakun Chutima , Keawvichit Rassamon , Benjakul Nontawat
Published: January 2025

Background: Lupus nephritis (LN) is a severe manifestation of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), characterized by inflammation and immune dysregulation in the kidneys. The role of macrophage polarization in LN progression remains underexplored. Objective: This study examined the association between tubulointerstitial M1/M2 macrophage subpopulations and LN indices of activity and chronicity. Materials and Methods: We retrospectively reviewed 160 renal biopsy specimens in patients with LN (ISN/RPS classes II–V) from the database of the Department of Anatomical Pathology, the Faculty of Medicine Vajira Hospital, Navamindradhiraj University (2012–2021). Additional immunohistochemical analysis included CD68, iNOS, CD206, CD163, and evaluation of infiltration with M1 (iNOS+), M2a (CD206+), and M2c macrophages (CD163+). Moreover, clinical information at the time of the renal biopsy, including age, sex, and laboratory findings, was obtained from the electronic medical records. The data were correlated with the macrophage infiltration using the Spearman test. Results: Lupus nephritis biopsies with ISN/RPS class II–V were included (class II: 3 cases (2%), III: 30 cases (19%), III + V: 16 cases (10%), IV: 73 cases (46%), IV + V: 18 cases (11%), and V: 20 cases (12%)). In addition, the mean age of SLE patients at the time of biopsy was 33 years (range: 19–47 years). Most patients were females (n = 141; 88%). The population of CD68+ macrophages was related to serum creatinine (p < 0.001; rs = 0.34). We detected predominantly M2 macrophages across all LN classes, but M1 macrophages demonstrated significant correlations with the activity index (p < 0.001; rs = 0.43). Conversely, M2a and M2c subpopulations were strongly associated with the chronicity index (M2a: p < 0.001, rs = 0.48; M2c: p = 0.024, rs = 0.18). Total macrophages correlated with both indices (activity: p < 0.001, rs = 0.44; chronicity: p < 0.001, rs = 0.42). Conclusions: In lupus nephritis, the predominant population of macrophages is M2. Correlations were noted between the subpopulations of M1 and M2c macrophages and the activity and chronicity indices, respectively. In addition, macrophage populations correlated with disease progression, but the significance of this association in disease progression remains uncertain.
Scent of COVID-19: Whole-Genome Sequencing Analysis Reveals the Role of ACE2, IFI44, and NDUFAF4 in Long-Lasting Olfactory Dysfunction
Authors: Spedicati Beatrice , Pecori Alessandro , Concas Maria Pina , Santin Aurora , Ruberto Romina , Nardone Giuseppe Giovanni , D’Alessandro Andrea , Tirelli Giancarlo , Boscolo-Rizzo Paolo , Girotto Giorgia
Published: January 2025

COVID-19-related persistent olfactory dysfunction (OD) presents remarkable interindividual differences, and little is known about the host genetic factors that are involved in its etiopathogenesis. The goal of this study was to explore the genetic factors underpinning COVID-19-related OD through the analysis of Whole Genome Sequencing data of 153 affected subjects, focusing on genes involved in antiviral response regulation. An innovative approach was developed, namely the assessment of the association between a “gene score”, defined as the ratio of the number of homozygous alternative variants within the gene to its length, and participants’ olfactory function. The analysis highlighted how an increased gene score in the ACE2 gene is associated with a worse olfactory performance, while an increased gene score in the IFI44 and NDUFAF4 genes is associated with a better olfactory function. Considering the physiological role of the proteins encoded by these genes, it can be hypothesized that a reduced expression of ACE2 may be associated with a protracted and severe inflammatory response in the olfactory epithelium, thus worsening patients’ smell abilities. Conversely, an increased gene score in IFI44 and NDUFAF4 might be associated with a decreased inflammatory response, thus correlating with a better olfactory performance. Overall, this study identified new host genetic factors that may play a pivotal role in determining COVID-19-related OD heterogeneity, possibly enabling more personalized and effective clinical management for affected individuals.
Which Positions Optimize Pelvic Floor Activation in Female Athletes?
Authors: Rodríguez-López Elena Sonsoles , Martín-Márquez Luz María , Acevedo-Gómez María Barbaño , López-Illescas África , Benito-de-Pedro María , Ojedo-Martín Cristina
Published: January 2025

Background/Objectives: Implementing and optimizing pelvic floor muscle (PFM) training programs is crucial for reducing the risk of dysfunctions, improving athletic performance, and enhancing quality of life for athletes. The aim of this study was to assess PFM activation in female athletes during postural challenges. Methods: An observational and descriptive study was conducted with twenty-five female rugby players. Surface electromyography was used to evaluate the PFMs in five different body positions under stable and unstable conditions. Results: The peak amplitude of the PFMs at baseline differed according to the physical demand of each position (p < 0.001). The lowest percentage activation was in the supine position (16.23%), while the highest recruitment was observed during the parallel squat (40.69%). The percentage of maximum voluntary contraction also differed according to each position (p = 0.001). The values were similar in supine position, side plank (104%), and standing position, being significantly lower (p < 0.05) than those reached during the off-knees quadruped hold (121.58%), full plank (121.97%), and parallel squat (151.40%); however, the values were comparable between stable and unstable positions (p = 1.000). Conclusions: Positions that challenge gravity and pelvic biomechanics, such as the squat, plank, and quadruped, facilitate greater activation of the PFMs. Contrary to previous recommendations, these exercises do not appear to have significant negative effects; therefore, consideration should be given to the implementation of these exercises for the management of pelvic floor dysfunction and as part of comprehensive exercise programs designed to improve overall core and pelvic floor function.
A Review of Numerical Techniques for Frictional Contact Analysis
Authors: Vashishtha Govind , Chauhan Sumika , Singh Riya , Singh Manpreet , Tejani Ghanshyam G.
Published: January 2025

This review analyzes numerical techniques for frictional contact problems, highlighting their strengths and limitations in addressing inherent nonlinearities and computational demands. Finite element methods (FEM), while dominant due to versatility, often require computationally expensive iterative solutions. Alternative methods, like boundary element methods (BEM) and meshless methods, offer potential advantages but require further exploration for broader applicability. The choice of contact algorithm significantly impacts accuracy and efficiency; penalty methods, though computationally efficient, can lack accuracy at high friction coefficients; whereas, Lagrange multiplier methods, while more accurate, are computationally more demanding. The selection of an appropriate friction constitutive model is crucial; while the Coulomb friction law is common, more sophisticated models are necessary to represent real-world complexities, including surface roughness and temperature dependence. This review paper delves into the future research that prioritizes developing computationally efficient algorithms and parallel computing strategies. Advancements in constitutive modelling are vital for improved accuracy, along with enhanced contact detection algorithms for complex geometries and large deformations. Integrating experimental data and multiphysics capabilities will further enhance the reliability and applicability of these numerical techniques across various engineering applications. These advancements will ultimately improve the predictive power of simulations in diverse fields.
Greenhouse Gas Emissions from Molten Fluoride Electrolysis Composed of Raw and Magnet Recycling Derived Oxides: A Comparative Study
Authors: Cvetković Vesna S. , Petrović Nataša M. , Prasakti Laras , Feldhaus Dominic , Stopic Srecko R. , Friedrich Bernd , Jovićević Jovan N.
Published: January 2025

In situ measurements of the chemical identity and quantity of anode gases during electrochemical measurements and rare earth (RE) electrolysis from fluoride-based molten salts composed of different kinds of rare earth oxides (REOs) were performed using FTIR spectrometry. Linear sweep voltammetry (LSV) was carried out to characterize oxidation processes and determine the anodic effect from NdF3 + PrF3 + LiF + REO melt. RE complex formation and subsequent reactions on the GC anode surface were discussed to understand the formation pathways of CO/CO2 and perfluorocarbon gases (PFC), mainly CF4 and C2F6. The LSV shows that increasing the REO content from 1 wt.% up to 4 wt.% in the system, leads to a positive shift in the critical potential for a full anode effect, recorded around 4.50 V vs. W with 4 wt.% REO. The FTIR results from on-line off-gas analysis during LSV measurements indicate that the anode gas products were composed mainly of CO and CO2, whereas CF4 can be detected before the full anode effect and C2F6 at and after this phenomenon. Compositions of off-gases from electrolysis performed using different kinds of REOs were compared. The main off-gas component was found to be CO in RE electrolysis with REOs as raw materials, while in electrolysis with magnet recycling derived oxides (MRDOs), CO2 content was slightly higher compared to CO. PFC emissions during RE electrolysis were generally similar: CF4 was detected periodically, but in negligible concentrations, while C2F6 was not detected.
Revisiting Intercalation Anode Materials for Potassium-Ion Batteries
Authors: Piernas-Muñoz María José , Zarrabeitia Maider
Published: January 2025

Potassium-ion batteries (KIBs) have attracted significant attention in recent years as a result of the urgent necessity to develop sustainable, low-cost batteries based on non-critical raw materials that are competitive with market-available lithium-ion batteries. KIBs are excellent candidates, as they offer the possibility of providing high power and energy densities due to their faster K+ diffusion and very close reduction potential compared with Li+/Li. However, research on KIBs is still in its infancy, and hence, more investigation is required both at the materials level and at the device level. In this work, we focus on recent strategies to enhance the electrochemical properties of intercalation anode materials, i.e., carbon-, titanium-, and vanadium-based compounds. Hitherto, the most promising anode materials are those carbon-based, such as graphite, soft, or hard carbon, each with its advantages and disadvantages. Although a wide variety of strategies have been reported with excellent results, there is still a need to improve the standardization of the best carbon properties, electrode formulation, and electrolyte composition, given the impossibility of a direct comparison. Therefore, additional effort should be made to understand what are the crucial carbon parameters to develop a reference electrode and electrolyte formulation to further boost their performance and move a step forward in the commercialization of KIBs.
Numerical Simulation of Free Surface Deformation and Melt Stirring in Induction Melting Using ALE and Level Set Methods
Authors: Garcia-Michelena Pablo , Ruiz-Reina Emilio , Gordo-Burgoa Olaia , Herrero-Dorca Nuria , Chamorro Xabier
Published: January 2025

This study investigates fixed and moving mesh methodologies for modeling liquid metal–free surface deformation during the induction melting process. The numerical method employs robust coupling of magnetic fields with the hydrodynamics of the turbulent stirring of liquid metal. Free surface tracking is implemented using the fixed mesh level set (LS) and the moving mesh arbitrary Lagrangian–Eulerian (ALE) formulation. The model’s geometry and operating parameters are designed to replicate a semi-industrial induction melting furnace. Six case studies are analyzed under varying melt masses and coil power levels, with validation performed by comparing experimentally measured free surface profiles and magnetic field distributions. The melt’s stirring velocity and recirculation patterns are also examined. The comparative analysis determines an improved performance of the ALE method, convergence, and computational efficiency. Experimental validation confirms that the ALE method reproduces the free surface shape more precisely, avoiding unrealistic topological changes observed in LS simulations. The ALE method faces numerical convergence difficulties for high-power and low-mass filling cases due to mesh element distortion. The proposed ALE-based simulation procedure is a potential numerical optimization tool for enhancing induction melting processes, offering scalable and robust solutions for industrial applications.
Creation of Long-Term Physical Stability of Amorphous Solid Dispersions N-Butyl-N-methyl-1-phenylpyrrolo[1,2-a]pyrazine-3-carboxamide, Resistant to Recrystallization Caused by Exposure to Moisture
Authors: Markeev Vladimir B. , Blynskaya Evgenia V. , Alekseev Konstantin V. , Dorofeev Vladimir L. , Marakhova Anna I. , Vetcher Alexandre A.
Published: January 2025

Amorphous solid dispersion (ASD) technology is often used as a promising strategy to improve the solubility of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs). ASDs allow APIs to be dispersed at the molecular level in a polymer carrier, destroying the crystalline structure of the APIs and, thanks to the polymer, providing long-term supersaturation in solution. However, stability issues are an obstacle to the development of new medications with ASD. In addition to the molecular mobility at elevated temperatures leading to the crystallization of APIs, moisture affects the physical stability of ASD, leading to fractional separation and recrystallization. N-butyl-N-methyl-1-phenylpyrrolo[1,2-a]pyrazine-3-carboxamide (GML-3) is an original API with both anxiolytic and antidepressant activity, but its insolubility in water can negatively affect (influence) bioavailability. Our study aims to create ASD GML-3 with moisture-resistant polymers (Soluplus®, HPC) and assess the stability of the amorphous state of ASD after storage in high humidity conditions. As a result, HPC KlucelTM FX was revealed to be more stable than the brand, providing a high level of API release into the purified water environment and stability after 21 days (3 weeks) of storage in high humidity conditions.
Study on Water Damage of Asphalt–Aggregate Based on Molecular Dynamics
Authors: Wang Shenghao , Chen Yan , Wang Lihua , Cui Naixin , Li Chunfeng , Sun Shifu
Published: January 2025

To investigate the water damage at the interface between emulsified asphalt and aggregate under the action of external water infiltration, firstly, cetyltrimethylammonium bromide was used as an emulsifier to prepare emulsified asphalt in the laboratory, and its basic properties were tested. Then, based on molecular dynamics, an emulsified asphalt–aggregate interface model with different water contents was constructed to calculate the adhesion work of the emulsified asphalt–aggregate interface. The results show that the simulated values of emulsified asphalt density, cohesive energy density, and solubility are in good agreement with the experimental values. Under the same water content, the adhesion force between asphalt and three oxides (CaO, Al2O3, SiO2) is arranged in the following order: CaO > Al2O3 > SiO2. The bonding performance of an alkaline aggregate to asphalt is better than that of an acid aggregate. The van der Waals force plays a major role in the adhesion performance of an emulsified asphalt mixture, and electrostatic force plays a secondary role. Under the action of external force, the macroscopic failure mode of the emulsified asphalt–aggregate is as follows: the alkaline oxide-emulsified asphalt system is cohesive failure; the acid and neutral oxide-emulsified asphalt system is adhesive failure; the enrichment of water molecules at the interface is the main factor causing water damage.
Comparative Study on the Calcium Leaching Resistance of Low-Heat Cement, Moderate-Heat Cement, and Ordinary Portland Cement Pastes
Authors: Jiang Chunmeng , An Shihao , Li Shuangxi , Chen Yingjie , Liu Jian
Published: January 2025

Hydraulic structures are frequently subjected to soft-water or acidic environments, necessitating serious consideration of the long-term effects of calcium leaching on the durability of concrete structures. Three types of common Portland cement (ordinary Portland cement, moderate-heat cement, and low-heat cement) paste samples widely applied to hydraulic concrete were immersed in a 6 mol/L NH4Cl solution to simulate accelerated calcium leaching behavior. The mass loss, porosity, leaching depth, compressive strength, and Ca/Si ratio of the three types of pastes were measured at different immersion stages (0, 14, 28, 56, 91, 140, and 180 days). The Vickers hardness index was employed to compare cement samples subjected to erosion for 30 and 180 days. The microstructure and composition of the mineralogical phases of the leached samples were also determined by X-ray diffraction, thermogravimetric analysis, and scanning electronic microscopy. Accordingly, the time-varying behavior and deterioration mechanism of the different cements subjected to leaching were contrastively revealed. The results showed that the calcium leaching resistance of the low-heat cement was the best, followed by the moderate-heat cement and ordinary Portland cement, proving that the content and structure of Ca(OH)2 and C-S-H gels were closely related to the leaching performance of the cement. The less Ca(OH)2 and more aggregated C-H-S gels produced by C2S led to better calcium leaching resistance in the cement. Therefore, the leaching performance of Portland cement could be effectively improved by reducing the content of C3S and increasing the content of C2S, and the dissolution rate of calcium ions under leaching could be reduced by controlling the low initial calcium content in cementitious materials. This paper offers theoretical guidance for mitigating the long-term effects of calcium leaching on hydraulic concrete structures by conducting a comprehensive comparative analysis of the damage behavior and deterioration mechanisms of various types of Portland cement under identical erosion conditions.