bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
MASCN Vapor‐Assisted Fabrication of Compact and Large‐Grain MAPbI3 Polycrystalline Wafer for X‐Ray Detection and Imaging
Authors: Liu Dan , Liao Feiyi , Di Haipeng , Li Haibin , Tie Shujie , Song Jiangfeng , Lei Lin , Chen Changan
Published: January 2025

Lead halide perovskite wafers, which have adjustable size and thickness, are promising for the tailored fabrication of X‐ray detectors. However, common voids and grain boundaries, acting as carrier traps in polycrystalline wafers, present a major challenge to achieving optimal optoelectronic properties. Herein, an innovative approach is adopted by introducing methylammonium thiocyanate (MASCN) vapor into the hot‐pressing environment of MAPbI3 wafers, promoting perovskite grain merging and growth. The resulting compact wafers with larger crystal grains display an extended average carrier lifetime (τavg) of 31.61 ns, a high ion activation energy (Ea) of 0.47 eV, a reduced dark current drift (Idrift) of 4.11 × 10−4 nA cm−1 s−1 V−1, and an improved mobility‐lifetime product (µτ) of 8.26 × 10−4 cm2 V−1. These optimized MAPbI3 wafer‐based detectors achieve a high sensitivity of 16611 µC Gyair−1 cm−2, a low detection limit (LoD) of 47.5 nGyair s−1, and robust operational stability in X‐ray detection. Furthermore, these detectors exhibit excellent X‐ray imaging capability, achieving a high spatial resolution of 5.64 lp mm−1. Therefore, the deployment of volatile thiocyanate salt during hot pressing provides a novel strategy for engineering high‐quality polycrystalline perovskite wafers, propelling forward the field of X‐ray detection.
Treatment of Acne With a 1726 nm Laser, Air Cooling, and Real‐Time Temperature Monitoring, Software‐Assisted Power Adjustment to Achieve a Temperature Endpoint With Selective Sebaceous Gland Photothermolysis
Authors: Tanghetti Emil A. , Sierra Rafael , Estes Michael , Eck Aubrey , Intintoli Alfred , Hofvander Henrik , Cohen Joel L. , Friedmann Daniel P. , Goldman Mitchel P. , Pomerantz Hyemin , Wang Jordan V. , Geronemus Roy G. , Anderson R. Rox , Sakamoto Fernanda H.
Published: January 2025

Objectives

This work highlights the methods used to develop a multi‐pulse 1726 nm laser system combined with bulk air‐cooling for selective sebaceous gland (SG) photothermolysis using thermal imaging and software algorithms. This approach enables treating to a desired tissue temperature and depth to provide a safe, effective, reproducible, and durable treatment of acne.

Methods

We designed and built a 1726 nm laser system with a 40 W maximum power output, a highly controlled air‐cooling device, and a thermal camera in the handpiece, which permits real‐time temperature monitoring of the epidermis. IRB‐approved safety and efficacy trials demonstrated SG damage at depth, resulting in safe, efficacious, and durable clinical outcomes. Bioheat transfer and light transport modeling confirmed that the pulsing protocols could produce therapeutic temperatures at various SG depths, while protecting the epidermis and dermis with bulk air‐cooling. Similarly, we employed clinical observations and photothermal modeling to identify pain mitigation opportunities while maintaining therapeutic efficacy. Biopsies were subsequently taken for histological evaluation.

Results

Clinical and histological data, confirmed with modeling, demonstrated that multi‐pulse laser delivery with bulk air‐cooling selectively increased SG temperature compared to surrounding dermis and at depths unachievable by a single pulse. Subjects showed an average 71% ILC reduction at 3 months posttreatment. We identified two different pulsing protocols with similar selective photothermolysis (SP) of the SG with very different pain responses. Thus, changing the pulsing protocols allowed for pain mitigation and eliminated the need for injectable anesthetic. Histology confirmed the selective damaging of the SG at depth and the preservation of the surrounding dermis and the epidermis.

Conclusions

The multi‐pulse 1726 nm laser with bulk air‐cooling, thermal monitoring, treat‐to‐temperature (and depth) control, and a unique pulsing protocol, is capable of selectively damaging SGs at depth without damage to the surrounding dermis or the epidermis. The system offers two different protocols that were developed with different levels of discomfort allowing for two different methods for pain mitigation (injectable vs. topical anesthesia).
Stability analysis of stochastic Lyapunov functions: Applications to memristor neural networks
Authors: Rahimi Vaz'he , Ahmadian Davood
Published: January 2025

This paper investigates the mean square exponential stability of stochastic neural networks relying on memristor with leakage delay with different types of activation functions. To this aim, we introduce a new suitable stochastic Lyapunov‐Krasovskii functional (SLKF) and employ Filippov solutions to derive stability criteria using It
's formula. We encounter with a nonlinear matrix inequality which should be converted to a linear matrix inequality (LMI) problem by using Schur complement lemma. The proposed problem is handled by using the CVX toolbox in MATLAB software. In the numerical examples section, we bring two examples related to two‐ and three‐dimentional memristor‐based neural networks whose coefficients satisfy in the Schur complement lemma. The figures show that the employed stochastic Lyapunov functions can capture the exponential stability conditions.
Exact Boundary Controllability for a System of Coupled Wave Equations in Noncylindrical Domains
Authors: Nunes Ruikson. S. O.
Published: January 2025

This paper concerns to study an exact boundary controllability problem for a system of coupled wave equations in domains with moving boundaries. Such systems model the vibrations of identical flexible bodies coupled in parallel by means of an elastic layer where their boundaries present a bounded movement. The control is square integrable and acts on all moving boundary, and it is obtained by means of conormal derivative of the solution. The controllability method used here is that one established by D. L. Russell.
Informing the Development of Telehealth Education in Physiotherapy Programs. Assessments and Interventions for Individuals Accessing Physiotherapy Care via Synchronous Telehealth. A Scoping Review
Authors: Davies Luke M. , Lawton Vidya , Bevan Rebecca , Mestousis Mikayla , Pacey Verity
Published: January 2025

Background

In order to develop contemporary telehealth curricula for entry‐to‐practice physiotherapy programs that develop the capabilities required to practice telehealth, it is important to evaluate the delivery of telehealth practices within the physiotherapy profession.

Objective

To assess the current literature to (i) determine what types of assessments and interventions have been delivered via synchronous forms of telehealth (videoconferencing and telephone) by physiotherapists (ii) determine which platforms were used for service delivery and which practice areas have delivered synchronous telehealth physiotherapy assessments and interventions.

Design

Scoping review adhering to Joanna Briggs Institute guidelines. Three electronic databases (Medline, Embase, and CINAHL) were searched for articles involving physiotherapists using synchronous forms of telehealth (videoconferencing/telephone) to deliver assessments and/or interventions.

Study Selection

Articles were included if they related to physiotherapists using synchronous forms of telehealth (videoconferencing and/or telephone) to deliver assessments and/or interventions.

Data Synthesis

A narrative synthesis was conducted.

Results

From 2748 records, 134 studies were included. Standardised assessments (e.g. subjective assessments, range of motion, functional assessment) were the most commonly (82%) delivered. Most interventions delivered were exercise (82%), followed by education (27%). Freely available synchronous videoconferencing platforms including Zoom (n = 30, 34%), WhatsApp (n = 10, 11%), and Skype (n = 9, 10%) were commonly used. Telehealth‐delivered physiotherapy assessment and interventions were primarily utilised in musculoskeletal (33%), neurological (23%) and respiratory (14%) practice areas.

Conclusion

The diverse use of physiotherapy telehealth‐delivered assessments and interventions across varied clinical practice settings and patient populations highlights the importance of preparing future physiotherapists with telehealth skills fit for contemporary practice.
Quality of Non‐Surgical and Non‐Pharmacological Knee Osteoarthritis Care in the Maritimes
Authors: Budarick Aleksandra R. , Hubley‐Kozey Cheryl L. , Li Linda C. , Theou Olga , Stanish William D. , Moyer Rebecca F.
Published: January 2025

Objectives

To evaluate the quality and types of care individuals with mild‐to‐moderate knee osteoarthritis receive in the Canadian Maritime provinces, and determine associations with demographic, social, and patient‐reported factors.

Methods

Individuals with knee osteoarthritis were invited to complete a healthcare quality survey based on the British Columbia Osteoarthritis (BC OA) survey. The cross‐sectional descriptive observational survey assessed four healthcare quality indicators: advice to exercise, advice to lose weight, assessment of ambulatory function, and assessment of non‐ambulatory function. Pass‐rates were calculated overall and for each quality indicator. Binary logistic regressions determined associations between quality indicators and demographic, social, and patient‐reported outcomes. Patient‐reported use of exercise and diet as arthritis treatments were added to the quality indicator eligibility criteria as a sensitivity analysis.

Results

Participants (n = 241) had a mean age of 67 (7) years, body mass index of 30.7 (7.5) kg/m2 and were 77% female. The overall pass rate was 42.9% using the BC OA criteria, and 49.3% in the sensitivity analysis. Individual quality indicator pass‐rates ranged from 4.3% for non‐ambulatory function to 85.7% for ambulatory function assessments. The sensitivity analysis increased pass‐rates for advice to exercise (61.9%–69.3%) and advice to lose weight (27.9%–35.1%). Pass‐rates were not driven by demographic, social, or patient‐reported factors.

Conclusions

Over half of individuals with mild‐to‐moderate knee osteoarthritis did not receive recommended core treatments in the Maritimes, highlighting a need to improve care for this patient group. Quality indicators should be routinely evaluated to determine whether clinical care aligns with best practice guidelines.
Access to Hearing Healthcare and Barriers Among United States Veterans: A Survey‐Based Study
Authors: Gallagher Tyler J. , Hori Kaitlin , Choi Janet S.
Published: January 2025

Objective

We investigated use of hearing care among US veterans and explore motivations, barriers, and adherence to hearing healthcare.

Study Design

Cross‐sectional online survey.

Setting

US Veterans.

Methods

This cross‐sectional, online survey‐based study included 287 respondents who identified themselves as veterans on ResearchMatch (NIH‐sponsored national registry of research volunteers). Questions regarding hearing loss, tinnitus, use of hearing care, and facilitators/barriers to hearing care were asked. Descriptive statistics were utilized for data analysis.

Results

In this cohort, the rate of self‐reported hearing loss and tinnitus were 61.0% and 74.2%, respectively. Among these, 66.9% of those with hearing loss and 36.2% of those with tinnitus reported seeking hearing care. Most important motivators of seeking hearing care (average on 1‐5 Likert scale) included personal importance of hearing (4.0; SD = 1.1), difficulty hearing others (3.6; SD = 1.1), and degree of hearing loss (3.3; SD = 1.1). Most common barriers included uncertainty regarding who to reach out to for hearing care (42.9%), inability to get time off work (34.3%), and nervousness about seeing a provider (28.6%). Common reasons to decline hearing aids reporting that hearing was not bad enough for hearing aids (72.2%) and included inability to afford hearing aid (55.6%).

Conclusion

In this cohort, many US veterans sought care for hearing loss, though barriers still exist, including uncertainty regarding how to access appropriate care, being too far from a provider, and challenges with cost. Future studies should investigate methods to alleviate these internal and external barriers to hearing care and emphasize the importance of motivators for seeking care.
Removal of Heavy Metal Ions on Lead Ion‐Imprinted Modified Polyurethane Wet‐Spun Fibers
Authors: Wu Jun , Wu Xiao , Yin Maoli , Yang Yunlai , Yao Yinqi , Liu Xinhua , Li Xiaojuan
Published: January 2025

The molecular imprinted polymers are prepared by molecular imprinting technique with specific selectivity in target substances. To prepare high performance and specific lead ion adsorbent, hence, chitosan was used to blend polyurethane; the modified fiber was a matrix for initiating graft polymerization of acrylic acid on surface. Lead ion imprinted fibers were prepared by lead‐ion as template and epichlorohydrin in crosslinking agent. The influence of graft rate and adsorption properties of imprinted materials for lead‐ions was analyzed. The result suggests that the maximum graft rate of acrylic acid is 59.10%; hydrophilicity and stability of grafted fiber membranes are significantly improved. Furthermore, the saturated adsorption capacity of lead ion imprinted fibers reaches the maximum under 20°C nearly neutral. The relative selection coefficients of lead ion for cupric ion and cadmium ion were 2.72 and 6.06, respectively. This indicates that the imprinted fibers show specific selectivity for lead ion used for a potential adsorbent in removing heavy metal ions.
Renovating nanocomposite design: A novel conductivity model for polymer graphene systems incorporating interphase and tunneling zones
Authors: Vatani Mostafa , Zare Yasser , Munir Muhammad Tajammal , Rhee Kyong Yop
Published: January 2025

Many papers have studied the electrical conductivity of graphene‐filled nanocomposites, but the roles of imperfect interphase in the percolation onset and nanocomposite conductivity were ignored. In this manuscript, two interface parameters including the minimum graphene diameter to transfer its conductivity to the polymer medium (Dc) and interface conduction (ѱ) are defined in polymer composites by graphene size and interphase deepness. Then, the actual converse aspect ratio, real filler portion, and percolation inception are given by graphene size and interphase deepness. Also, a model is developed based on the stated terms for conductivity of graphene‐containing composites. The impacts of various parameters on the “Dc,” “ѱ,” actual filler portion, percolation inception, and nanocomposite conductivity are plotted and justified by new equations. Moreover, the forecasts of conductivity and percolation inception are associated to several experimented data. Narrow nanosheets and thick interphase positively govern the “Dc,” interface conduction, actual filler portion, the inception of percolation, and conductivity of system. The maximum interface conduction as 1400 S/m is reached by graphene thickness (t) of 2 nm and interphase depth (ti) of 6 nm, but the interface conduction largely reduces to 100 S/m at ti <2.7 nm. These results recommend that reedy nanosheets and bushy interphase cause a high interface conduction in nanocomposites. Furthermore, high nanosheet diameter (D) negatively affects “Dc” and interface conduction, but it produces the low percolation inception and high conductivity. The nanocomposite conductivity reaches 0.9 S/m at D = 5 μm and graphene conductivity of 2 × 105 S/m.

Highlights

A conventional model is developed for conductivity of graphene‐containing composites.

Two interfacial parameters as “Dc” and “ѱ” are considered in the nanocomposites.

The forecasts of conductivity are compared to the experimented data of several samples.

Narrow nanosheets and thick interphase positively govern the “Dc” and conductivity.

Bigger nanosheets negatively affect the “Dc”, but produce a higher composite conductivity.
Thermal Responses and Cell Adhesive Properties of Glycosylated Jigsaw‐Shaped Self‐Assembling Peptides
Authors: Hara Yoshika , Yoshizawa Ken , Uchida Noriyuki , Muraoka Takahiro
Published: January 2025

As represented by the posttranslational modifications of proteins, the chemical modifications of side chains of peptide residues enable to regulate their physicochemical properties, conformation, and biological activities. Glycosylation is a main post‐translational modification, which allows for recognition by partner proteins to exert diverse function including increase in the conformational stability. Here, we studied the effects of glucose modification, which is a representative glycosylation sugar chains, to different positions of an amphiphilic peptide having a jigsaw‐shaped hydrophobic part (JigSAP). JigSAP forms a β‐sheet structure to self‐assemble into fibrous objects providing a hydrogel that can be used as a matrix for regenerative medicine. JigSAPs modified with glucose at the N‐terminus and middle portion were synthesized, and both of them self‐assemble in water to form hydrogels. The hydrogel composed of JigSAP containing the glucose group attached to the N‐terminus undergoes a gel‐to‐sol macroscopic phase transition upon heating, accompanied by a conformational change of JigSAP from the β‐sheet to an α‐helix structure. On the other hand, JigSAP with the glucose group in the middle, retained its β‐sheet structure even at high temperatures maintaining the gel state. Both glucose‐modified JigSAP fibers showed cell adhesion activity similar to that of non‐glycosylated JigSAP. This suggests that the glycosylation is effective in regulating the thermal stability of JigSAP fibers while maintaining their extracellular matrix properties depending on the modification site.
Exploring the Conformational Space of MPS1 Kinase Using Metadynamics
Authors: Singh Anuradha , Lakkaniga Naga Rajiv
Published: January 2025

MPS1 kinase is a dual specificity kinase that plays an important role in the spindle assembly checkpoint mechanism during cell division. Overexpression of MPS1 kinase is reported in several cancers. However, drug discovery and development efforts targeting MPS1 kinase did not result in any clinically successful candidates. All the reported crystal structures of MPS1 kinase adopt the DFG “in” conformation. Knowledge of the other conformations of the kinase would be beneficial in the structure‐based drug design of novel inhibitors. This work employs well‐tempered metadynamics simulations to explore the conformational space of MPS1 kinase by using its experimentally determined DFG “in” conformation as the starting structure. The simulation could successfully predict the DFG “out” conformation and identify the possible transition states. The key interactions that stabilize the kinase in various conformations were identified, and the effect of phosphorylation of the key residues on the conformation of the kinase was determined.
Mangiferin Attenuates Myocardial Ischemia Reperfusion Injury by Regulating the GAS6/Axl Signaling Pathway
Authors: Zhao Aizhen , Lei Wangrui , Tian Jiayin , Wu Xiaopeng , Li Mengyu , Zhang Yan , Wu Xue , Xu Xuezeng , Tang Jiayou , Yang Yang , Jin Zhenxiao
Published: January 2025

Ischemia reperfusion‐induced myocardial injury is a prominent pathological feature in patients with coronary artery disease, contributing to significant mortality and morbidity rates. Mangiferin (MGF), the main active ingredient extracted from Anemarrhena asphodeloides Bge, has anti‐inflammatory, anti‐oxidation, anti‐diabetes, and anti‐tumor effects. The present study confirmed that the GAS6/Axl pathway was identified as a promising novel target for the treatment of myocardial ischemia reperfusion (IR) injury. However, whether MGF exerts anti‐myocardial ischemia reperfusion injury through GAS6/Axl is still unclear. In this study, BALB/c male mice and HL‐1 cardiomyocytes were used to construct a model of IR and hypoxia‐reoxygenation (HR) (or H2O2) injury in vivo and in vitro, respectively. MGF significantly improved cardiac function indicators, myocardial structure, myocardial enzymes, and mitochondrial function, together with reduced oxidative stress and apoptosis in IR‐injured mice. In vitro, MGF significantly increased cell viability, inhibited the release of LDH, reduced oxidative stress and apoptosis, and improved mitochondrial function in both HR and H2O2‐injured HL‐1 cells. In particular, the GAS6/Axl signaling pathway plays an important role in this process. Additionally, we also demonstrated that GAS6 gene knockout reversed the protective effect of MGF against HR and H2O2‐injured cardiomyocytes. The present study confirmed that MGF has protective effects against myocardial IR injury by activating the GAS6/Axl pathway, providing a theoretical basis for MGF as a potential cardioprotective drug in the clinical setting of myocardial IR injury.
Template Free Direct Approach to Crystalline Mesoporous ZnO/Bi2O3 Mixed Oxide Nanosheets with Enhanced Photo reactivity
Authors: Latif Saba , Akram Bilal , Khan Bilal Ahmad , Hassan Abeer A. , Nazir Fozia , Alturaifi Huriyyah A. , Musawar Syeda Sundas , Alrafai Halema A.
Published: January 2025

The design and synthesis of mesoporous nanostructured materials have sparked significant interest over the last decade. However, developing a template free approach to obtain transition metal based mixed oxide nanosheets with mesopores is still challenging. We developed an easy template‐free direct solution‐based approach to fabricate crystalline ZnO/Bi2O3 mesoporous nanosheets. The porous features of the mixed oxide nanosheets can be tuned using different precursors of the metal salts. The obtained nanosheets were employed as photocatalyst to treat textile waste using methylene blue (MB) dye as model textile waste. The photocatalyst manifests 92% degradation efficiency. The scavenging experiments indicate that holes are the main reactive species responsible for the degradation of MB. Applying two structurally unique photocatalysts towards dye degradation evidenced the structure activity relationship. This structure‐activity relationship underscores the importance of nanomaterial design and synthesis in optimizing photocatalytic performance for environmental remediation applications.
Deep Red‐Light‐Mediated Nitric Oxide and Photodynamic Synergistic Antibacterial Therapy for the Treatment of Drug‐Resistant Bacterial Infections
Authors: Lin Jingjing , Cao Mingyi , Wang Shiya , Wu Xinyu , Pan Yuhan , Dai Zhiyue , Xu Ningge , Zuo Lumin , Liu Ji , Wang Yuxin , Zhong Qifeng , Xu Yue , Wu Jianbing , Gui Lijuan , Ji Xueying , Liu Heng , Yuan Zhenwei
Published: January 2025

Infections caused by persistent, drug‐resistant bacteria pose significant challenges in inflammation treatment, often leading to severe morbidity and mortality. Herein, the photosensitizer rhodamine derivatives are selected as the light‐trapping dye and the electron‐rich substituent N‐nitrosoaminophen as the nitric oxide (NO)‐releasing component to develop a multifunctional (deep) red‐light activatable NO photocage/photodynamic prodrug for efficient treatment of wounds and diabetic foot infections. The prodrug, RhB‐NO‐2 integrates antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (aPDT), NO sterilization, and NO‐mediated anti‐inflammatory properties within a small organic molecule and is capable of releasing NO and generating Reactive oxygen species (ROS) when exposed to (deep) red laser (660 nm). This strategy overcomes the limitation of using a single photosensitizer, which is often inadequate for eliminating drug‐resistant bacteria. Additionally, it demonstrates that NO released from the prodrug can interact with superoxide anions (O2•−) generated by PDT to form a more reactive and oxidative agent, peroxynitrite (ONOO−). These three components act synergistically to enhance the antimicrobial effects. Furthermore, the released NO can inhibit the NF‐κB pathway by regulating the expression of toll‐like receptor 2 (TRL2) and tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α), thereby alleviating tissue inflammation. The developed prodrug ， RhB‐NO‐2 has the potential to expedite the healing of superficial infected wounds and offer a promising approach for treating diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs).
Analytical solution to the magneto‐elastoplastic problem for functionally graded spherical shells under inner pressure
Authors: Yan Weiwen , Ye Yongqiang , Dong Fei , Zhang Jiansheng , Wang Wenshuai
Published: January 2025

As composite material techniques mature, the study of functionally graded (FG) structures under the multi‐field coupling has become increasingly important. For FG spherical shells, the inhomogeneous distribution of stress fields leads to permanent plastic deformation when external force is applied. In addition, Lorentz force from constant magnetic fields can significantly affect the mechanical properties and mechanical behaviors of functionally graded materials (FGM). In this study, the elastoplastic states of FG spherical shells include four deformations, such as pure elasticity, partial plasticity from the internal or external surface, and complete plasticity. In this paper, elastic modulus and yield criterion of FG spherical shells are hypothesized to follow the power‐law distribution in the thickness direction of spherical shells, and analytical solutions of displacement and stress for various elastoplastic deformation states are proposed, and the critical loads of transition between these various states are determined. By comparing results with the existing work, the correctness of the analytical solutions is verified. In addition, the effects of inner pressure, FG parameter, and external magnetic fields on elastoplastic deformation states and stress, displacement distributions in FG spherical shells are further analysed. The results show that the plastic deformation of FG spherical shells may occur on the internal or external surface subjected to the effect of external magnetic fields and inner pressure. As the FG parameter gradually increases, the first yielding position moves from the internal to the external surface for spherical shells. Further, the external magnetic field has the effect of decreasing the critical inner pressure value that causes FG spherical shells to yield, making the spherical shell more susceptible to plastic deformation.
Trace relations in deformed gauge theories
Authors: Raman Madhusudhan , Shahani Aditi
Published: January 2025

Abstract

We compute trace relations governing chiral ring elements of fully Ω-deformed

$$ \mathcal{N} $$

N

= 2⋆ gauge theories with SU(N) gauge groups by demanding the regularity of the fundamental qq-character.
Dynamics in zebrafish development define transcriptomic specificity after angiogenesis inhibitor exposure
Authors: Nöth Julia , Michaelis Paul , Schüler Lennart , Scholz Stefan , Krüger Janet , Haake Volker , Busch Wibke
Published: January 2025

Testing for developmental toxicity is an integral part of chemical regulations. The applied tests are laborious and costly and require a large number of vertebrate test animals. To reduce animal numbers and associated costs, the zebrafish embryo was proposed as an alternative model. In this study, we investigated the potential of transcriptome analysis in the zebrafish embryo model to support the identification of potential biomarkers for key events in developmental toxicity, using the inhibition of angiogenesis as a proof of principle. Therefore, the effects on the zebrafish transcriptome after exposure to the tyrosine kinase inhibitors, sorafenib (1.3 µM and 2.4 µM) and SU4312 (1 µM, 2 µM, and 5 µM), and the putative vascular disruptor compound rotenone (25 nM and 50 nM) were analyzed. An early (2 hpf—hours post fertilization) and a late (24 hpf) exposure start with a time resolved transcriptome analysis was performed to compare the specificity and sensitivity of the responses with respect to anti-angiogenesis. We also showed that toxicodynamic responses were related to the course of the internal concentrations. To identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs) the time series data were compared by applying generalized additive models (GAMs). We observed mainly unspecific developmental toxicity in the early exposure scenario, while a specific repression of vascular related genes was only partially observed. In contrast, differential expression of vascular-related genes could be identified clearly in the late exposure scenario. Rotenone did not show angiogenesis-specific response on a transcriptomic level, indicating that the observed mild phenotype of angiogenesis inhibition may represent a secondary effect.
Nearly-circular periodic solutions of perturbed relativistic Kepler problems: the fixed-period and the fixed-energy problems
Authors: Boscaggin Alberto , Feltrin Guglielmo , Papini Duccio
Published: January 2025

The paper studies the existence of periodic solutions of a perturbed relativistic Kepler problem of the type

$$\begin{aligned} \dfrac{\textrm{d}}{\textrm{d}t}\left( \frac{m\dot{x}}{\sqrt{1-|\dot{x}|^{2}/c^{2}}}\right) = -\alpha \frac{x}{|x|^{3}} + \varepsilon \, \nabla _{x} U(t,x), \qquad x \in \mathbb {R}^d\setminus \{0\}, \end{aligned}$$

d

d
t

m

x
˙

1
-
|

x
˙

|

2

/

c
2

=
-
α

x

|
x
|

3

+
ε

∇
x

U

(
t
,
x
)

,

x
∈

R

d

\

{
0
}

,

with

$$d=2$$

d
=
2

or

$$d=3$$

d
=
3

, bifurcating, for

$$\varepsilon $$

ε

small enough, from the set of circular solutions of the unperturbed system. Both the case of the fixed-period problem (assuming that U is T-periodic in time) and the case of the fixed-energy problem (assuming that U is independent of time) are considered.
How does optimal prey abundance shape space use by a territorial raptor?
Authors: Real Joan , Azpillaga Maialen , Bosch Rafel , Hernández-Matías Antonio , Puig-Gironès Roger
Published: January 2025

Understanding predator-prey interactions is important to determine the inter-relationships between species. Optimal foraging theory states that predators balance out energy expended with the energy gained from their prey. In the Iberian Peninsula, the European rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus) is a key prey species for endangered Bonelli’s eagle (Aquila fasciata). Thus, it is vital to understand how changes in rabbit abundance can influence habitat selection and territory use by Bonelli’s eagle. We studied 11 radio-tagged Bonelli’s eagles in their territories in Catalonia (NE Iberian Peninsula) and analysed the relationship between rabbit relative abundance, habitat selection and territory use of eagles. Rabbit relative abundance varied between territories, with shrublands hosting more rabbits, and eagles preferred shrublands and open areas for foraging and avoided dense forests. Spatial use by territorial eagles correlated positively with rabbit abundance in rabbit-rich territories, thereby supporting the idea that prey availability influences habitat selection. This result confirms optimal foraging strategies given that open habitats including shrublands tended to host more rabbits, thus providing better opportunities for prey detection and capture. Therefore, maintaining rabbit populations and their habitats (i.e., preserving open Mediterranean shrublands) would seem to be crucial for Bonelli’s eagle conservation. Our findings improve our understanding of predator-prey interactions and highlight the relationship between habitat structure, prey abundance and predator behaviour. In addition, our results emphasize the need for targeted conservation strategies designed to safeguard endangered species such as Bonelli’s eagle and maintain ecosystem integrity.
Sovereignty by design and human values in agriculture data spaces
Authors: Gil Rosa María , Ryan Mark , García Roberto
Published: January 2025

Because of the importance of data-sharing for the economy, improved products and services, and to benefit society, the European Union has proposed developing a Common European Data Space (CEDS). The goal is to create a single European data market through 14 domain-specific data spaces (e.g., agriculture, or the Common European Agricultural Data Space (CEADS)). One of the central tenets of the CEDS is to ensure that those who share data can maintain control over who has access to, use of, and ability to share it (or ‘data sovereignty’). Data sovereignty is an umbrella concept with many different values comprising its implementation. Therefore, to successfully implement data sovereignty in the CEADS (and all CEDS for that matter), it is important to identify what values are important for stakeholders.This paper examines the CEADS to identify the most critical values for potential stakeholders of this data space. We implement a six-phase value-sensitive design methodology called ‘value mapping’ by interviewing stakeholders from an incipient Spanish data-sharing initiative (potentially representing over 1 million farmers) and conducting a workshop with 42 international stakeholders at an agri-tech summit. Our findings demonstrate the different values that are important for stakeholders of an agricultural data space: farmers (privacy, control, and trust); farm advisors (human welfare and autonomy); farmer associations (trust and human welfare); technology providers and intermediaries (autonomy and human welfare); public and regulatory bodies (autonomy); and society (justice). Furthermore, we describe different interdisciplinary steps to ensure and protect these values to ensure sovereignty-by-design in the CEADS.
Integrative biomechanics of a human–robot carrying task: implications for future collaborative work
Authors: Schuengel Verena , Braunstein Bjoern , Goell Fabian , Braun Daniel , Reißner Nadine , Safronov Kirill , Weiser Christian , Heieis Jule , Albracht Kirsten
Published: January 2025

Patients with sarcopenia, who face difficulties in carrying heavy loads, may benefit from collaborative robotic assistance that is modeled after human–human interaction. The objective of this study is to describe the kinematics and spatio-temporal parameters during a collaborative carrying task involving both human and robotic partners. Fourteen subjects carried a table while moving forward with a human and a robotic partner. The movements were recorded using a three-dimensional motion capture system. The subjects successfully completed the task of carrying the table with the robot. No significant differences were found in the shoulder and elbow flexion/extension angles. In human–human dyads, the center of mass naturally oscillated vertically with an amplitude of approximately 2 cm. The here presented results of the human–human interaction serve as a model for the development of future robotic systems, designed for collaborative manipulation.
Automated stenosis estimation of coronary angiographies using end-to-end learning
Authors: Eschen Christian Kim , Banasik Karina , Dahl Anders Bjorholm , Chmura Piotr Jaroslaw , Bruun-Rasmussen Peter , Pedersen Frants , Køber Lars , Engstrøm Thomas , Bøttcher Morten , Winther Simon , Christensen Alex Hørby , Bundgaard Henning , Brunak Søren
Published: January 2025

The initial evaluation of stenosis during coronary angiography is typically performed by visual assessment. Visual assessment has limited accuracy compared to fractional flow reserve and quantitative coronary angiography, which are more time-consuming and costly. Applying deep learning might yield a faster and more accurate stenosis assessment. We developed a deep learning model to classify cine loops into left or right coronary artery (LCA/RCA) or “other”. Data were obtained by manual annotation. Using these classifications, cine loops before revascularization were identified and curated automatically. Separate deep learning models for LCA and RCA were developed to estimate stenosis using these identified cine loops. From a cohort of 19,414 patients and 332,582 cine loops, we identified cine loops for 13,480 patients for model development and 5056 for internal testing. External testing was conducted using automated identified cine loops from 608 patients. For identification of significant stenosis (visual assessment of diameter stenosis > 70%), our model obtained a receiver operator characteristic (ROC) area under the curve (ROC-AUC) of 0.903 (95% CI: 0.900–0.906) on the internal test. The performance was evaluated on the external test set against visual assessment, 3D quantitative coronary angiography, and fractional flow reserve (≤ 0.80), obtaining ROC AUC values of 0.833 (95% CI: 0.814–0.852), 0.798 (95% CI: 0.741–0.842), and 0.780 (95% CI: 0.743–0.817), respectively. The deep-learning-based stenosis estimation models showed promising results for predicting stenosis. Compared to previous work, our approach demonstrates performance increase, includes all 16 segments, does not exclude revascularized patients, is externally tested, and is simpler using fewer steps.
Combining Unguided Web-Based Attentional Bias Modification and Affective Working Memory Training to Decrease Anxiety: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Nuijs M. D. , Larsen H. , Klein A. M. , Grasman R. P. P. P. , Wiers R. W. , de Voogd E. L. , Salemink E.
Published: January 2025

Purpose

Cognitive vulnerability to anxiety can partly be explained by an interplay of attentional biases and control processes. This suggests that when aiming to reduce anxiety, simultaneously reducing an attentional bias for threat and strengthening control processes would be the optimal approach. We investigated whether a combined web-based Attentional Bias Modification (ABM) with affective Working Memory Training (WMT) was effective in reducing trait anxiety relative to control conditions and whether state anxiety moderated ABM effects.

Methods

In this pre-registered randomized controlled trial, adults with heightened trait anxiety (n = 433) received either an active or control visual search ABM combined with an active or control emotional chessboard WMT training (2 × 2 design). Trait anxiety (primary outcome) was assessed at pre- (T1), mid- (T2), and post-training (T3), and at 1, 2, and 3-months follow-up. Attentional Bias (AB) and Working Memory (WM) capacity were assessed at T1, T2, T3, and FU3. State anxiety was measured prior to each training session.

Results

Irrespective of the training conditions, participants showed a decrease in trait anxiety over time. The ABM training was associated with stronger reductions in AB. The WMT training was not associated with more improvements in WM capacity relative to the control condition. No moderating effects of state anxiety, baseline AB or WM capacity were observed.

Conclusions

The findings suggested that the current type of ABM combined with WMT in a web-based format, without therapist support, was not effective in reducing trait anxiety beyond control conditions.

The study was registered in the Netherlands Trial Register (NTR-NL4525, https://www.onderzoekmetmensen.nl/en/trial/23135).
Evaluating the impact of media and feed combinations on CHO cell culture performance and monoclonal antibody (trastuzumab) production
Authors: Gyorgypal Aron , Chaturvedi Antash , Chopda Viki , Zhang Haoran , Chundawat Shishir P. S.
Published: January 2025

The choice of media and feeds significantly influences the performance of Chinese Hamster Ovary (CHO) mammalian cell cultures in producing desired biologics like monoclonal antibodies (mAb). Sub-optimal nutrient feed/media composition can severely impact cell proliferation and the quality of the final mAb product. For instance, proper protein glycosylation, crucial for mAb stability, safety, and efficacy, heavily relies on cell culture conditions. Currently, starter CHO culture media and daily supplemental feeds used in industrial manufacturing consist of proprietary composition of nutrients critical for mAb production. Standardized optimal media/feed combinations necessary for different cell lines are often lacking, necessitating individualized optimization for each cell line and mAb product. Here, we focused on a CHO-K1 cell line engineered to produce a Trastuzumab biosimilar and evaluated the effects of fourteen commercially relevant basal media and seven feeds on cell culture parameters such as viable cell density, viability, nutrient consumption, metabolite production, mAb titer, and mAb N-glycosylation. Our findings demonstrate clearly that the compositions of the basal medium and feed play a pivotal role in enhancing cell growth and mAb production. This work offers valuable insights into strategies for optimizing feed/media composition for glycosylated monoclonal antibody production using CHO cells.
Using Games and Activities to Increase Inhibitory Control Skills in Kindergarten-aged Children
Authors: Lambert Kailyn , DiCarlo Cynthia F. , Rueter Denise
Published: January 2025

Executive function skills are critical in early development, as they “form the foundation for children’s ability to self-regulate” (McLelland, et al., 2016, p. 242). Inhibitory control, one component of executive function, is the ability to suppress or inhibit responses to distractions when completing a task. The purpose of this study was to improve children’s inhibitory control in the classroom through ageappropriate games, which promote controlling emotions and remaining on task. Three target children were observed in the classroom they attended with their regular teacher. Baseline data revealed that the target children needed improvement on inhibitory control skills, which included controlling emotions and staying on task. The Inhibitory Control Intervention consisted of age-appropriate games (Uno, Perfection, Matching Cards, I Spy book) that promoted staying on task and controlling emotions independently and with small groups of peers. Data were collected using momentary time sampling for a ten minute period during free choice center time. When the Inhibitory Control Intervention was in place, there was an increase in both on task behavior and controlling emotions during free-choice center time. Providing opportunities for children to practice inhibitory control skills can be beneficial for increasing children’s self-regulation skills.
Growth performance, antioxidant, and immune responses of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) fed on low-fishmeal diets enriched with sodium chloride and its adaptability to different salinity levels
Authors: Monier Mohamed N. , Abd El-Naby Asmaa S. , Fawzy Reham M. , Samir Fatma , Shady Sherien H. H. , Grana Youssif Shehata , Albaqami Najah M. , Abdel-Tawwab Mohsen
Published: January 2025

The current investigation assessed the beneficial impacts of dietary sodium chloride (NaCl) on the growth performance, oxidant/antioxidant, and immune responses of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) and its adaptability to different salinity levels. After acclimating the fish to the laboratory conditions for 2 weeks, the acclimated fish (10.5 ± 0.16 g) were randomly distributed into 25 110-L rectangular glass tanks (15 fish/tank) to represent five groups in five replicates. The fish were fed with experimental feeds fortified with 0.0 (control), 5, 10, 15, and 20 g NaCl/kg feed for 60 days. Following the nutritional experiment, fish of all groups were adapted to different salinity levels from 0 to 32 g /L for a further 3 weeks, during which fish mortality was recorded. Blood samples were taken after the feeding trial and at a salinity level of 24 g/L. Growth performance and hematological parameters (WBCs, RBCs, hemoglobin, and hematocrit), total protein, albumin, globulin, digestive enzymes, antioxidant activity, and immunity status were markedly improved with increased NaCl rates in the fish diets up to 10 g/kg feed, after which all previous parameters were declined. On the other hand, feeding fish on a diet containing 10 g NaCl/kg feed showed substantially lower levels of cortisol, glucose, cholesterol, triglycerides, aspartate transaminase (AST), alanine transaminase (ALT), and malondialdehyde (MDA). Exposing the control fish group to salinity stress (32 g/L) for 3 weeks markedly decreased their digestive enzyme activity, immunity status, and antioxidant response, along with significant increases in cortisol, glucose, cholesterol, triglycerides, AST, ALT, and MDA levels. Conversely, feeding fish on a diet containing 10 g NaCl/kg feed alleviated the negative impacts of salinity stress and helped fish to tolerate salinity stress up to 24 g/L.
Opportunities and Challenges of Blockchain Technology for Negotiation Support Systems
Authors: Witt Josepha , Schoop Mareike , Knaus Konstantin
Published: January 2025

Blockchain Technology (BCT) is the backbone of the next generation of the internet and thus affects how electronic business (e-business) is conducted. While the usage of BCT for the initiation and transaction phases in e-business has been studied, the negotiation aspect has not been considered in a comprehensive manner. The current literature on the utilisation of BCT in electronic negotiations (e-negotiations) primarily focuses on autonomous agents and lacks research on the support of e-negotiations conducted by human negotiators using negotiation support systems (NSSs). This results in the issue that the consequences of a transition to Web3.0-based NSSs are unclear, while other areas of e-business already apply Web3.0 technologies. We address this lack of knowledge following a design-oriented approach in three steps exploring the opportunities and challenges of using BCT for e-negotiations via NSSs. Firstly, the well-established negotiation support system Negoisst is extended by BCT features resulting in the development of a Web3.0-based NSS called NegoisstBCT to demonstrate the technical feasibility of this approach. Secondly, the potential opportunities and challenges of a Blockchain-based NSS are analysed referring to its technical architecture. Thirdly, a generalised view of the application of Web3.0-based NSSs in different settings is taken, discussing future research on BCT in e-negotiations. The present research thus fosters the application of Blockchain-based NSSs in e-negotiations and of NSSs in BCT application areas.
Prevalence and demographic profile of keratoconus among high school students in Kenya
Authors: Rashid Zahra Aly , Mashige Khathutshelo Percy , Moodley Vanessa Raquel
Published: January 2025

Purpose

To determine the prevalence and demographic profile of keratoconus (KC) among high school students in Nairobi County, Kenya.

Methods

In this population-based, prospective, cross-sectional study, multistage cluster sampling was used to select the participants. All students underwent visual acuity measurement, auto-refraction, retinoscopy and corneal topography. Students with a scissors reflex on retinoscopy or corneal topography patterns suspicious of KC were referred for corneal tomography.

Results

A total of 3051 students from 29 schools, with a mean age of 17.4 ± 1.6 years (range: 13–25 years) were screened. The prevalence of KC was 1.7% (n = 51) (95% CI, 1.2–2.2) and of KC suspects was 3.8% (n = 117) (95% CI, 3.2–4.6). There were no significant associations between the prevalence of KC and gender, age or ethnicity (all p > 0.05). In the KC group, 88.2% (n = 45) were unaware of their condition, 52.9% (n = 27) were treated for allergic conjunctivitis, 45.1% (n = 23) required spectacles, 11.8% (n = 6) were recommended contact lenses in at least one eye and 49.0% (n = 25) were recommended corneal cross-linking.

Conclusions

Among adolescents, the results of this study indicate a higher prevalence of KC compared to that reported in South Korea, Norway, Brazil and Caucasians in New Zealand, but less than that reported in some countries in the Middle East. Given the high prevalence revealed in this study, a national school screening program and clinical guidelines for screening, diagnosis and management of KC is recommended.