bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Friction and Wear Characterizations in Electrospun Nanofibrous Scaffolds for Cartilage Engineering
Authors: Souza Plath André Mathias , Alinezhadfar Mohammad , Ferguson Stephen J.
Published: February 2025

Electrospun nanofibers are promising materials to treat articular cartilage (AC) defects. However, they still have lower mechanical properties than tissue. There are no standard protocols to test friction in electrospun materials. Only a few studies have reported electrospun mats’ coefficient of friction (COF). This work aims to evaluate COF and wear for electrospun mats using a universal testing tribometer. Stainless steel, polyoxymethylene (POM), and rubber balls were rubbed against poly(ε‐caprolactone) (PCL) mats. There was a statistically significant difference between metal and rubber/plastic. This is attributed to surface chemistry. POM countersurfaces were rubbed at 1, 10, and 50 mm/s. The results show a small COF reduction proportional to speed and stick‐and‐slip behavior. Finally, we tested a PCL‐zein‐based material for its water contact angle reduction from 120° to 60°. The results demonstrated the lubrication efficiency (20% COF reduction) and hydrophobic‐hydrophilic contacts (33% COF reduction). The study successfully evaluates electrospun mats’ tribological properties. This is followed by the perspective of shear and friction biostimulation in electrospun surfaces. Furthermore, at the tested loads, the material had AC‐like COFs at boundary lubrication conditions.
B0 Magnetic Field Conditions in the Human Heart at 3 T Across One Thousand Subjects: A Numerical Simulation Study
Authors: Shang Yun , Theilenberg Sebastian , Peng Boyu , Schreiber Laura M. , Einstein Andrew J. , Jambawalikar Sachin R. , Juchem Christoph
Published: February 2025

Functional scans in cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) adopting bSSFP sequences suffer from dark band artifacts due to B0 inhomogeneity. The best remedy to mitigate this issue is through cardiac B0 shimming. The development of an optimal B0 shim strategy for the human heart is hindered by a limited understanding of B0 conditions in clinical diagnostic orientations of CMR. Here, we present high‐resolution B0 distributions in cardiac imaging planes, derived from simulations utilizing high‐resolution computed tomography (CT) images from 1008 subjects, and present an oblique slicing method to derive such B0 distributions. This study also presents a theoretical analysis of spherical harmonic B0 shimming at 3 T using a static global approach and slice‐specific dynamic shim updating in the short‐axis view of human hearts. The characteristics of cardiac B0 conditions along with spherical harmonic shimming were correlated with the subjects' demographic parameters, with weak or no correlations, suggesting limited demographic commonality and predominantly subject‐specific characteristics in cardiac B0. The segmented lung volume shows more significant associations and relatively higher correlations with B0 conditions, indicating that B0 conditions in the heart rely on the anatomy surrounding the heart more than overall body shape and size. This research provides a basis for the development of optimized cardiac B0 shim strategies.
Mechanical Behavior Prediction of 3D‐Printed PLA/Wood Composites Using Artificial Neural Network and Fuzzy Logic
Authors: Ulkir Osman , Akgun Gazi , Karadag Arif
Published: February 2025

This study presents a novel approach to optimize and predict the mechanical properties of 3D‐printed polylactic acid (PLA)/wood composites through artificial neural network (ANN) and fuzzy logic (FL) modeling. The research addresses the critical challenge of determining optimal process parameters in fused deposition modeling (FDM) of natural fiber composites. Using Taguchi's L27 orthogonal array, experiments were conducted with five key printing parameters: layer thickness (100–200–300 μm), printing speed (PS) (40–60–90 mm/s), raster angle (RA) (0°–45°–90°), infill density (ID) (30%–60%–90%), and nozzle temperature (NT) (190°C–200°C–210°C). Analysis revealed that RA and PS were the most influential parameters, contributing 41.86% and 40.92% to tensile and compressive strengths, respectively. The developed ANN model demonstrated exceptional prediction accuracy with R2 values of 99.94% for both tensile and compressive strengths, surpassing the FL model's performance (R2 = 97.16%). The development of these models is crucial for accurately predicting mechanical behavior, allowing for efficient process optimization without extensive physical testing. Both methods demonstrated high prediction accuracy. Validation tests revealed that maximum errors of 1.95% and 2.81% for ANN and FL, respectively. The findings contribute valuable insights for the development of high‐performance natural fiber composites and establish a foundation for future advanced manufacturing processes.
Fabrication of imine‐assisted self‐healing APDMS/AMWCNT elastomer and the application in flexible circuits
Authors: Li Jiujuan , Zheng Yu , Liu Yuanhao , Zhang Binbin , Tang Xianzhong , Hong Yan , Ye Yuanyuan , Wang Chong , Zhou Guoyun , Chen Yuanming , Du Yongjie , Yang Weiguo , Jiao Yu , Zou Min , He Wei
Published: February 2025

In this work, a self‐healing elastomer involving reversible imine bonds was synthesized by Schiff base reaction between the amino groups in amino‐modified polydimethylsiloxane (APDMS) and the aldehyde groups in 1,4‐diformylbenzene (DFB). The incorporation of amino‐modified multi‐walled carbon nanotube (AMWCNT) allowed for good dispersion of AMWCNT with few aggregates and effectively balanced the mechanical properties and self‐healing performance, achieving a mechanical strength of 132.3 kPa and a self‐healing efficiency (HE) of 99.87% at room temperature after 24 h. The reversible imine bond based on the Schiff base linkage promotes quick self‐healing upon damage without any external stimulus at room temperature. Through electroless deposition, copper and nickel patterns were formed on the surface of the elastomer, establishing conductive pathways. The average resistivity of the copper trace was 5.40 × 10−8 Ω·m (3.63 × 10−7 Ω·m for nickel trace), which is 3.18 times that of regular copper wire (5.19 times for regular nickel wire). Upon cleavage and self‐healing of the elastomer with copper lines, with the resistivity increment by 14.43% in average (11.01% for nickel wire). This work offers an alternative pathway to the development of self‐healable silicone elastomers for future flexible electronics.

Highlights

Elastomer with balanced mechanical properties and self‐healing performance.

Recyclable elastomer through hot‐press treatment.

Copper patterns were electroless‐deposited on the elastomer.

Damaged pattern restored conductivity within 24 h at room temperature.
Enhanced electromagnetic shielding and thermal performance of GNP and boron nitride infused carbon fiber/PDMS composites through magnetic field‐induced GNP alignment
Authors: Parameswarreddy Gandluri , Kolukula Harshitha , Suematsu Hisayuki , Vinaya Kumar Asapu , Subramanian Venkatachalam , Sarathi Ramanujam , Verma Rishi , Sharma Archana
Published: February 2025

The present work is focused on the development of magnetic field‐assisted graphene nanoplatelets (GNP) alignment in boron nitride (BN) graded short carbon fiber/ PDMS composites for the enhancement of thermal, electrical properties and electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding effectiveness in X‐band (8–12 GHz) frequency which can be used as a gasket material. A rotating magnetic field is used for the alignment of GNP in the polymer matrix while the sample is in the curing stage. Initially, BN filler is optimized using morphological study viz., x‐ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis. It has been validated that BN with 3 wt% is an optimum filler loading having a better filler dispersion and higher filler orientation. Extending the study further on this optimized BN filler (3 wt%) in the composite, the paper also analyzes the influence of filler orientation. Electrical properties by I‐V characteristics, thermal properties by performing laser flash analysis, and thermography analysis are carried out. It is observed that the electrical and thermal conductivities are greatly influenced by the alignment of filler. The lateral alignment of filler (RMF‐L) samples has a uniform heat distribution and better heat transfer all over the sample. In addition, the RMF‐L sample has an enhancement of EMI shielding of 53.3 dB (i.e., 99.9995% attenuation) compared to the non‐oriented NMF sample with 45.3 dB. In summary, the lateral alignment of filler in the RMF‐L sample led to the efficient use of nanofiller in the application of EMI shielding with better thermal and electrical properties.

Highlights

GNP is oriented using a rotating magnetic field for enhancement of properties.

Additionally, neighbor BN to GNP aligns with the GNP alignment force.

BN of 3 wt% filler is an optimum filler loading with GNP maximum alignment.

GNP alignment has a great influence on electrical and thermal properties.

The aligned GNP sample RMF‐L has better EMI shielding of 53.3 dB.
A rapid prediction model for composite bolted joints based on spring stiffness method and Simulink circuit simulation
Authors: Pang Huan , Li Xin , Zhang Hongyu , Wang Lechen , Xu Bo
Published: February 2025

In order to improve the efficiency of preliminary design and optimization of composite structures, a rapid response predictive model for evaluating the mechanical behavior of bolted composite joints under tensile loading was established using the spring stiffness method. This model enables the analysis of structural stiffness and strength, and allows for the rapid acquisition of load–displacement curves in bolted composite joints. To enhance the accuracy of predicting nonlinear behavior during loading, various factors such as joint clearances, multi‐stage friction, and composite laminate damage were considered. The accuracy of the model was validated using finite element simulations and experimental results. In addition, by implementing the circuit modeling method, the modularization of the connection structure was achieved, allowing for the flexible assembly of modules to generate various circuit models. The circuit model accurately predicts the ultimate damage load of the composite while requiring only 1.5 s of computation time. The reduction in prediction time makes the circuit model an effective and practical tool for analyzing the nonlinear behavior of composite joints. Moreover, the circuit model is applicable in preliminary structural optimization. The results demonstrate that using the circuit model enables optimization tasks to be completed in a short time frame.

Highlights

A model that incorporates the effects of clearances, friction, and damage.

A significant advantage in simulation time (about 1.5 s) and cost.

A multi‐bolt joint model enables the calculation of damage and load distribution.

The circuit model was used to optimize the design of the three‐bolt joint.
Shear creep behavior of load transfer component for variable‐stiffness fiber‐reinforced polymer cable anchoring system
Authors: Zhou Jingyang , Cheng Caishu , Wang Xin , Jiang Kaidi , Ding Jian , Xu Qiwei , Wu Zhishen
Published: February 2025

The static shear properties and 1000‐h creep of load transfer components (LTCs) for anchoring cable was experimentally determined by considering the modified material, volume fraction, hybrid ratio, and stress level, respectively. 1000‐h and million‐hour creep strains were theoretically predicted. The effect of LTC creep on bonded anchorage relaxation was numerically analyzed. The results revealed that vacuuming increased shear strength by 20.8% to 43.6% and shear modulus by 3.1% to 16.0%. Adding fibers can concurrently increase both shear strength and shear modulus, while hybrid ratio had minimal impact on these properties. High stress can cause cracking of single quartz sand‐modified resin (SSMR). Adding fibers or sand can reduce resin creep but the deformation resistance of single glass microfiber‐modified resin (SFMR) surpassed that of SSMR. The creep coefficients of the plain and modified resins rapidly increased when stress levels reached 0.7 fu (fu = ultimate strength). Both the Findley and logarithmic models can reasonably forecast 1000‐h creep. Shear stress levels should be restricted below 0.5 fu to control creep. The experimental LTC strains can be accurately described by the established finite element model. Shear stress concentration showed an S‐shaped trend along the LTC thickness. Higher stress levels and greater LTC thickness led to increased stress losses.

Highlights

The shear‐enhancing effect of fibers and sand was experimentally evaluated.

The 1000‐h and million‐hour shear creep coefficients of LTCs were revealed.

The effect of LTC creep on bonded anchorage relaxation was numerically clarified.
Modeling short fiber reinforced polymer matrix composite materials using material designer
Authors: Eyri Busra , Gul Okan , Karsli N. Gamze , Yilmaz Taner
Published: February 2025

In the present era, the importance of simulations pertaining to production is increasing in terms of cost, human resources, and time. As the majority of existing studies on polymer matrix composites are experimental, the development of a modeling approach for these materials will address a significant gap in the existing literature. In order to achieve this objective, the present study investigates the factors influencing the modeling of carbon fiber‐reinforced PPS composites produced by the injection molding method with the Ansys Material Designer tool. Composites containing 10% CF by weight were subjected to a tensile test subsequent to production. Subsequently, the tensile strength, elastic modulus, and tensile strain values obtained were then compared with the values were compared with those obtained from the modeled RVEs, with an examination of the various parameters in the Material Designer tool. The requisite parameter values for the optimal model, exhibiting the closest approximation to the experimental results, were derived from the modeled RVEs. The findings of the study indicated that the mean strength of the samples produced was measured at 143.73 MPa. However, when the optimum parameter conditions were met, this value was obtained at 141.48 MPa, with an error of 1.56% in the RVE model. However, this error increased to 18.58% in the elasticity modulus.

Highlights

The mesh was found to have no significant impact on the outcomes.

The number of additives in the RVE had a direct effect on the results.

Changes in the fiber distribution demonstrated comparable outcomes.

The most crucial parameter for accurately modeling is the RVE size.
A Whole‐Population Comparative Study of the School Experience and Its Association With Depressive Symptoms Among Immigrant‐Origin and Native Preadolescents
Authors: Abdulhamed Rekar , Hietajärvi Lauri , Klemetti Reija , Lonka Kirsti
Published: February 2025

In European studies, immigrant‐origin adolescents report more mental health symptoms than natives do. The school is an important developmental context for them, and more research is needed about how their school experience is related to their mental health symptoms, and whether these relations vary by group. The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of depressive symptoms, and their association with the school experience among native and immigrant‐origin preadolescents attending the fourth and fifth grades of primary school. Whole‐population surveys of three time points (2017, 2019, 2021, N = 259,382, of which N = 14,930 immigrant‐origin) were used. Immigrant‐origin preadolescents were grouped by their birth country and their parents to first‐ and second‐generation, and to forced and voluntary immigrant groups. Depressive symptoms were most often reported by first‐generation immigrant preadolescents followed by their second generation counterparts. Sense of school belonging was the most important protective factor and bullying the most important risk factor in relation to depressive symptoms. Positive school experiences were more beneficial for the mental health of natives than their immigrant‐origin counterparts. In turn, negative school experiences were more detrimental for the mental health of immigrant‐origin preadolescents.
The Association Between Social Connectedness and Psychological Well‐Being Among International Students: Social Support Moderates the Mediating Effects of Loneliness and Perceived Stress
Authors: Tang Lingjie , Zhang Chang'an , Cui Yu
Published: February 2025

The current study aimed to investigate the connection between social connectedness and psychological well‐being (PWB), while concurrently exploring the potential mediating roles of loneliness and perceived stress in this relationship among international students in China. Drawing on the literature highlighting the protective effect of social support, this study also sought to explore whether social support played a moderating role in the loneliness‐ and perceived stress‐PWB relationships. The sample comprised 530 students (43.4% of females), aged between 18 and 31 years (M = 24.39, SD = 4.12), and enrolled in various academic disciplines. Findings of the mediation model indicated that loneliness and perceived stress mediated the relationship between social connectedness and students' PWB. Additionally, moderation analyses revealed that social support had a significant moderating effect such that the negative associations between loneliness/perceived stress and PWB became non‐significant or weaker for international students with high levels of social support. Furthermore, the indirect effects of social connectedness on PWB was also found to be significantly moderated by varying social support levels. Limitations and recommendations for future studies as well as implications for practice are also discussed.
Release of ‘Essekerka’, a high yielding winter wheat cultivar with good grain and flour quality
Authors: Spanic Valentina , Hefer Dubravka , Dvojkovic Kresimir
Published: February 2025

‘Essekerka’ (Reg. no. CV‐1211, PI 704099), hard red winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) was developed by the Agricultural Institute Osijek (Croatia) and released in 2023. Essekerka was derived from the cross ‘Irishka’ × ‘Apache’. It was tested under experimental number Osk.4.354/12‐18 and showed high grain yield with enhanced dough quality in trials (2019–2022) based on farinograph analysis. Essekerka has grain yield comparable to two high‐yielding hard red winter wheat check cultivars (Apache and ‘Kraljica’). Essekerka has higher grain yield than hard red winter wheat cultivar ‘Viktorija’ which is declared as check for quality. Overall, better Fusarium head blight resistance was observed in Essekerka than in ‘Vikotrija’. Compared with one of the parent Apache, in various trials Essekerka matured 2–3 days earlier and was 2‐ to 3‐cm shorter.
Comparative Proteomics of Salinity Stress Responses in Fish and Aquatic Invertebrates
Authors: Leprêtre Maxime , Hamar Jens , Urias Monica B. , Kültz Dietmar
Published: February 2025

Fluctuating salinity is symptomatic of climate change challenging aquatic species. The melting of polar ice, rising sea levels, coastal surface and groundwater salinization, and increased evaporation in arid habitats alter salinity worldwide. Moreover, the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events such as rainstorms and floods increase, causing rapid shifts in brackish and coastal habitat salinity. Such salinity alterations disrupt homeostasis and ultimately diminish the fitness, of aquatic organisms by interfering with metabolism, reproduction, immunity, and other critical aspects of physiology. Proteins are central to these physiological mechanisms. They represent the molecular building blocks of phenotypes that govern organismal responses to environmental challenges. Environmental cues regulate proteins in a concerted fashion, necessitating holistic analyses of proteomes for comprehending salinity stress responses. Proteomics approaches reveal molecular causes of population declines and enable holistic bioindication geared toward timely interventions to prevent local extinctions. Proteomics analyses of salinity effects on aquatic organisms have been performed since the mid‐1990s, propelled by the invention of two‐dimensional protein gels, soft ionization techniques for mass spectrometry (MS), and nano‐liquid chromatography in the 1970s and 1980s. This review summarizes the current knowledge on salinity regulation of proteomes from aquatic organisms, including key methodological advances over the past decades.
Telerehabilitation of patients with stroke: Initial program theories for successful implementation
Authors: Hasan Mohamed M. , Rafferty Miriam R. , Roth Elliot , Abunaser Sarah , Smith Justin D. , Hirschhorn Lisa R. , Woods Donna
Published: February 2025

Purpose

Telerehabilitation has proven effective for stroke survivors, yet it is slowly implemented. We developed Initial Program Theories (IPTs) that focus on the telerehabilitation of stroke survivors in the United States to uncover the possible causal relationship between implementation strategies and outcomes.

Methods

We created a conceptual framework to steer the development of IPTs. Then, we extracted concepts from theoretical frameworks reported in telemedicine implementation literature combined with feedback meetings with stakeholders with relevant experience.

Results

We developed a framework for implementing telerehabilitation that includes implementation levels, contextual domains, telerehabilitation technology, implementation phases, actors, targets, mechanisms, and outcomes. We created 27 IPTs that specify telerehabilitation interventions, implementation strategies, actors, targets, context, implementation mechanisms, and outcomes. The IPTs were refined and validated through feedback meetings.

Conclusions

This study adds to the relatively scarce literature on IPT development. For each IPT, we elaborated on the implementation mechanism and how it could facilitate or hinder telerehabilitation implementation, an essential insight for researchers and professionals to plan successful implementation strategies. Understanding causal mechanisms helps identify implementation strategies that will work in the U.S. context and improve weak implementation strategies that are potentially significant or commonly used.
Periselectivity, Chemoselectivity, and Regioselectivity of the Cycloaddition Reaction of Aza‐Oxyallyl Cations With Cinnamaldehyde: A Density Functional Theory Study
Authors: Adusei Godfred Boakye , Aniagyei Albert , Menkah Elliot , Kwawu Caroline R. , Amankwah Gabriel , Arhin Richmond , Osman Hawa , Adei Evans
Published: February 2025

This study theoretically investigates the factors controlling the periselectivity, chemoselectivity, and regioselectivity of the [3 + 2] cycloaddition reaction of aza‐oxyallyl cation with cinnamaldehyde to form oxazolidinone. The research utilizes hybrid density functional theory (DFT) method at the B3LYP‐D3, B3LYP, M06, and M062X coupled with the 6‐311G (d, p) level of theories to explain that the [3 + 2] chemoselective addition of aza‐oxyallyl cation across the carbonyl bond of cinnamaldehyde through its C and N reactive sites is more favorable than any other plausible mechanism. Generally, electron‐donating groups (EDGs) on aza‐oxyallyl cation decrease the activation barriers, whereas electron‐withdrawing groups (EWGs) increase the activation barrier. The GEDT values predict a very low polar reaction for the [3 + 2] cycloaddition reaction.
Multi‐Responsive Nanogels Based on Sulfoxide Polymethacrylates for Biomedical Applications
Authors: Stauber Hannah Elodie , López‐Iglesias Clara , Kanwal Sidra , Quaas Elisa , Klinger Daniel
Published: February 2025

Nanogels for biomedical applications require polymeric building blocks that show high hydrophilicity and (thermo‐)responsive properties without immune response risks. Polysulfoxides offer these advantages but have not yet been translated to 3‐dimensional colloidal materials. To examine their potential as alternatives to established systems, we developed a synthetic platform with synthetic control and chemical versatility. For this, we utilize the thermo‐responsive properties of a polymethacrylate with propyl sulfoxide side groups, that is, poly(2‐(n‐propyl‐sulfoxide)ethyl methacrylate) (P(nPr‐SEMA)). Its phase transition near body temperature enables nanogel preparation via conventional precipitation polymerization in an all‐aqueous system. To fully assess this approach's potential, we first demonstrate control over colloidal properties like size, size distribution, and crosslinking density. We examine the influence of these parameters on the temperature‐dependent swelling profiles and develop a standard synthetic protocol. Second, we examine synthetic versatility to introduce additional stimuli‐responsiveness. For this, we introduce methacrylic acid (MAA) as pH‐responsive co‐monomer and examine resulting double‐sensitive swelling. Third, we add network degradability through reduction‐cleavable crosslinker bis(2‐methacryloyloxyethyl) disulfide (DSDMA). Fourth, we demonstrate that multi‐responsive nanogels exhibit low cytotoxicity and high colloidal stability in biologically relevant media. Overall, this systematic study establishes P(nPr‐SEMA)‐based nanogels as versatile alternatives to established temperature‐responsive nanogels for biomedical applications, for example, drug delivery.
Effect of Symptom Burden on Demoralization in Chinese Lung Cancer Patients: The Mediating Roles of Family Function, Resilience, and Coping Behaviors
Authors: Zhang Chenxing , Wang Fangfang , Kang Zhixuan , Hong Yuting , Arbing Rachel , Chen Wei‐Ti , Huang Feifei
Published: February 2025

Objective

This study aimed to elucidate the mechanisms by which symptom burden affects demoralization in Chinese lung cancer patients, with a focus on the roles of family functionality, resilience, and coping strategies. The study also explored differences in these pathways between two distinct demoralization categories.

Methods

A cross‐sectional survey was conducted among 567 lung cancer patients who completed questionnaires assessing symptom burden, family functioning, resilience, coping strategies, and demoralization. Data were analyzed using partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS‐SEM), with multigroup structural equation modeling (MG‐SEM) employed to compare pathways between the psychological distress‐subjective incompetence group (PDSIG) and the low demoralization‐emotional disturbance group (LDEDG).

Results

PLS‐SEM analysis demonstrated a good model fit. Symptom burden (β = 0.26), confrontation coping (β = 0.11), and acceptance‐resignation coping (β = 0.41) had positive direct effects on demoralization, whereas resilience (β = −0.19) and family function (β = −0.27) had negative direct effects. Additionally, family function, resilience, and acceptance‐resignation coping mediated the relationship between symptom burden and demoralization. MG‐SEM revealed that, in the PDSIG, symptom burden (β = 0.47) and family function (β = −0.46) had similarly strong impacts on demoralization, with stronger family function associated with lower demoralization. In contrast, resilience (β = −1.02) was the most significant factor in the LDEDG.

Conclusions

These findings highlight the importance of screening for demoralization, particularly among lung cancer patients with a high symptom burden, maladaptive resignation coping, family dysfunction, and low resilience. Effective strategies should focus on symptom management, family support, resilience building, and fostering positive coping mechanisms. Tailored interventions based on demoralization subtypes are essential to improve psychological well‐being in this population.
Genomics and morphometry of herbarium specimens elucidate the origin of the Cape Verde date palm (Phoenix atlantica A.Chev.) and highlight its agronomic potential
Authors: Cid‐Vian Jerónimo , Pérez‐Escobar Oscar A. , Baker William J. , Bonhomme Vincent , Ferrand Sylvie , Ivorra Sarah , Kaczmarek Thomas , Pagnoux Clémence , Terral Jean‐Frédéric , Wales Nathan , Purugganan Michael D. , Creer Simon , Papadopulos Alexander S. T. , Bellot Sidonie , Gros‐Balthazard Muriel
Published: February 2025

Societal Impact Statement

As climate change accelerates, breeding resilient crops is urgent. The date palm (Phoenix dactylifera L.), a crucial 18 billion USD fruit crop, underpins North African and West Asian oasis agroecosystems. This study investigates the genetics and morphology of its closest wild relative, the endemic and endangered Cape Verde date palm (Phoenix atlantica A.Chev.). We reveal that the latter originated through a feralisation process from domesticated date palms, evolving back into a wild state with unique genetic diversity. This highlights the need to protect its distinctiveness and opens the possibility of enhancing date palm resilience through its inclusion in breeding programs.

The date palm (Phoenix dactylifera L.). is a major crop but its sustainability is threatened by climate change. This challenge could be mitigated by breeding with wild relatives or feral populations. The endangered and endemic Cape Verde date palm (Phoenix atlantica A.Chev.) is thought to be among the closest relatives of the date palm, but its origin and taxonomic status remain unclear, with studies having recovered it either as a separate species or a feral date palm. Better understanding the differentiation of P. atlantica and P. dactylifera is needed to fully unlock the potential of the Cape Verde date palm as a candidate for date palm improvement.

In this study, we employ an integrative approach to clarify the origin of P. atlantica. Specifically, we investigate the phylogenetic placement, genetic structure, and seed morphology of P. atlantica by generating extensive genomic and seed morphology datasets from expert‐verified historical and modern specimens of Phoenix, including the type specimen of P. atlantica.

Our findings indicate that P. atlantica is monophyletic but nested within P. dactylifera. Its genetic diversity overlaps substantially but not completely with North African date palm varieties, and its seeds share characteristics with those of cultivated and feral date palms, notably elongation, a trait linked to domestication.

These results suggest that P. atlantica may be an incipient species that originated from a date palm feralisation event. We emphasise the need for conserving its natural genetic variation and the traditional knowledge associated with its name to support breeding programs.
Mesoscopic Damage Evolution of Hydroxyl‐Terminated Polybutadiene Propellants under Biaxial Tension
Authors: Yuan Bin , Qiang Hongfu , Wang Xueren , Chen Tiezhu , Yue Chunguo
Published: February 2025

This study conducted systematic in‐situ tensile scanning tests on hydroxyl‐terminated polybutadiene (HTPB) propellant under biaxial tensile conditions. It successfully acquired in‐situ experimental data at different tensile ratios. Through in‐depth analysis of the experimental data, the study elucidated the damage evolution mechanism of HTPB propellant specimens during the biaxial tensile process. The research utilized advanced imaging techniques to visually analyze the mesoscopic damage evolution process of two‐dimensional slices of the solid fuel, with porosity being used as a key indicator of damage variables for the quantitative description of the damage process under biaxial tensile. The study combined statistical principles with damage theory to derive a damage evolution equation describing the change of porosity with strain. A detailed comparative analysis between the theoretical model and experimental results validated the correctness and feasibility of the damage evolution equation, providing a new theoretical basis and method for damage assessment of solid propellants under complex stress states. This study enriches the understanding of the mechanical behavior of HTPB propellants and offers significant experimental data and theoretical models for research in related fields.
The Crystal Structure of the Domain of Unknown Function 1480 (DUF1480) From Klebsiella pneumoniae
Authors: Patel Dhruvin H. , Watanabe Nobuhiko , Savchenko Alexei , Semper Cameron
Published: February 2025

Domains of unknown function (DUFs) continue to comprise a significant portion of bacterial proteomes, with more than 20% of bacterial proteins remaining annotated as DUFs. The characterization of their molecular structure can provide valuable insight that is not captured by the primary sequence analysis, thus providing a segue into the identification of the molecular function of DUF representatives. Here, we present the crystal structure of KPN_02352 from Klebsiella pneumoniae subsp. pneumoniae, a DUF1480 domain‐containing protein, which was determined to be 1.75 Å resolution. Representatives of the DUF1480 family are found broadly across Enterobacterales and have been previously shown to contribute to the antibiotic response. Our structural analysis suggests that DUF1480 is comprised of a six‐stranded split barrel fold featuring a small alpha helix that is positioned to cap one end of the split barrel. DUF1480 was found to be monomeric in solution, and harbors structural similarity to response regulators. The crystal structure of DUF1480 is the first experimental insight into the molecular structure of this conserved protein family, revealing several conserved features that may be functionally relevant.
Sources, identification, and behavioral significance of oviposition‐deterring pheromones in insects
Authors: Zhang Xiaxuan , Wang Guirong
Published: February 2025

Oviposition is a pivotal activity for female insects, significantly influencing their fitness and the survival of their offspring. Selecting an optimal oviposition site ensures the successful development of progeny and minimizes inter‐ and intraspecific competition. This selection process relies heavily on multimodal sensory inputs, with olfaction cues playing a central role. Among these chemical signals, oviposition‐deterring pheromones (ODPs) have garnered considerable attention for their ability to modulate oviposition behaviors and facilitate both inter‐ and intraspecific communication. ODPs, secreted by insects from various orders such as Lepidoptera, Coleoptera, and Diptera, are key regulators of population density, resource competition, and ecological balance. These pheromones also assist parasitic wasps in host location, targeting eggs or larvae. Given their profound impact on insect behavior, ODPs present promising applications in pest management strategies and are expected to be used for the development of new pest control methods. This review examines the sources, chemical composition, and biological significance of ODPs across insect species and explores their potential in controlling insect populations. © 2025 Society of Chemical Industry.
Exploring the influence of habitat, ground refugia and behavioral strategies on the overwintering success of Drosophila suzukii, Matsumura
Authors: Shrestha Binita , Stockton Dara G , Hesler Stephen P , Loeb Gregory M
Published: February 2025

BACKGROUND

The overwintering biology of Drosophila suzukii is poorly understood. While thermal tolerance studies suggest that winter morphotype females likely survive harsh winters given physiological changes that lead to cold‐hardening, additional factors such as habitat selection are likely important but poorly understood. In the present study, we conducted a field study at three vineyard sites to investigate winter habitat selection, a semi‐field study to measure survival outcomes depending on various ground refugia, and a laboratory study to evaluate vertical movement in response to simulated flood conditions often observed in winter.

RESULTS

Our results showed three things. First, Drosophila suzukii was most abundant in wooded areas of vineyards and near pomace piles. Few were captured in the vineyard itself and even fewer were captured in the winery facilities. Second, insulating ground cover such as straw was beneficial to improving survivability. Third, while insulating ground cover was beneficial during stable periods below freezing, during warm‐up periods where snow melts and subsequently floods the ground, fly mobility and vertical movement was critical for survival.

CONCLUSION

Cold acclimated flies are active participants in their environment, even at freezing temperatures, navigating changing landscape features and adjusting their position in response to temperature and ground conditions. Our data showed for the first time that cold acclimated flies are capable of vertical movement even at freezing temperatures as water levels rise at the ground level during thaw events. Thus, the overwintering behavior and ecology of D. suzukii is more complex than previously thought, and there are likely several factors in addition to physiological cold hardening that contribute to overwintering success. © 2025 Society of Chemical Industry.
The Potential Mechanism of Soy Isoflavones in Treating Osteoporosis: Focusing on Bone Metabolism and Oxidative Stress
Authors: Zhou Yuanyuan , Su Zhan , Liu Gang , Hu Siwang , Chang Jiang
Published: February 2025

Osteoporosis is divided into primary and secondary types. Primary osteoporosis may result from estrogen deficiency in postmenopausal women, imbalanced bone remodeling in the elderly, or imbalanced adolescent—type bone development. Secondary osteoporosis can be caused by factors like long—term glucocorticoid treatment, chronic kidney disease (CKD), estrogen deprivation, oxidative stress, diabetes, and obesity. This review focuses on the therapeutic potential of soy isoflavones for osteoporosis. At the cellular level, soy isoflavones, as natural plant extracts and phytoestrogens, are crucial for osteoblastogenesis and differentiation, osteoclastogenesis, osteoclast mineralization, and bone marrow mesenchymal stromal cell differentiation. They also maintain calcium homeostasis by regulating extracellular calcium and vitamin D levels. In terms of oxidative stress, soy isoflavones mitigate it in the endoplasmic reticulum and mitochondria, thus regulating cellular senescence, autophagy, and bone remodeling processes. Moreover, soy isoflavones can relieve symptoms related to CKD and inhibit glucocorticoid secretion, which directly or indirectly benefits the treatment of osteoporosis. Overall, soy isoflavones have the potential to treat osteoporosis by enhancing bone health, regulating metabolism, and alleviating oxidative stress. Future research should explore the potential of soy isoflavones as phytoestrogens for treating osteoporosis. This exploration should focus on clarifying the safety, identifying potential side effects, determining the optimal dosage regimen, and developing strategies to mitigate any adverse reactions. In addition, further large‐scale, multicenter human clinical trials are necessary to accurately evaluate the actual therapeutic effect of soy isoflavones on osteoporosis.
Endobronchial Lipoma Causing Almost Completely Trachea Obstruction
Authors: He Gaoyan , Zhao Jie , Wu Xiaojuan , Li Bo , Luo Xiaobin , Zhu Tao
Published: February 2025

Even though endobronchial lipoma is rare, it can mimic malignancy and lead to significant complications such as progressive dyspnea and subsequent lung infections related to endobronchial obstruction. We present a case of endobronchial lipoma located in the trachea causing almost complete tracheal obstruction. The patient's dyspnea disappeared after undergoing bronchoscopic excision of the mass.
Morphlight Theory Inspired by Raptor: Arm‐Wing Cooperative Control Method and its Application
Authors: Tang Di , Zhao Yibo , Wang Kunpeng , Chen Kai , Liu Yang , Dai Yanbin , Zheng Congbo , Yu Dongliang
Published: February 2025

Avians can change their wing shape in a fast and efficient manner resulting in high manoeuvrabilities. The wing is composed of several bones and dozens of muscles, enabling it to have morphing abilities. However, various wing postures require complex control strategies, but no method or control device has yet been designed. Therefore, an arm‐wing cooperative control method is achieved for the first time in the current research. In the method, the similarities between a human arm skeletal and an avian wing skeletal were figured out, and then a direct mapping between human arm motions and avian wing motions was proposed and established. A motion capture system was utilized to measure the motions of both arm and wing. Thereafter, a bionic wing skeleton was designed and controlled in a real‐time manner, which allows a human to flap its arm just like a bird. We guess that the arm‐wing cooperative control method could be a new control method for future aircraft.
Applying the Estimands Framework to Non‐Inferiority Trials: Guidance on Choice of Hypothetical Estimands for Non‐Adherence and Comparison of Estimation Methods
Authors: Morgan Katy E. , White Ian R. , Leyrat Clémence , Stanworth Simon , Kahan Brennan C.
Published: February 2025

A common concern in non‐inferiority (NI) trials is that non‐adherence due, for example, to poor study conduct can make treatment arms artificially similar. Because intention‐to‐treat analyses can be anti‐conservative in this situation, per‐protocol analyses are sometimes recommended. However, such advice does not consider the estimands framework, nor the risk of bias from per‐protocol analyses. We therefore sought to update the above guidance using the estimands framework, and compare estimators to improve on the performance of per‐protocol analyses. We argue the main threat to validity of NI trials is the occurrence of “trial‐specific” intercurrent events (IEs), that is, IEs which occur in a trial setting, but would not occur in practice. To guard against erroneous conclusions of non‐inferiority, we suggest an estimand using a hypothetical strategy for trial‐specific IEs should be employed, with handling of other non‐trial‐specific IEs chosen based on clinical considerations. We provide an overview of estimators that could be used to estimate a hypothetical estimand, including inverse probability weighting (IPW), and two instrumental variable approaches (one using an informative Bayesian prior on the effect of standard treatment, and one using a treatment‐by‐covariate interaction as an instrument). We compare them, using simulation in the setting of all‐or‐nothing compliance in two active treatment arms, and conclude both IPW and the instrumental variable method using a Bayesian prior are potentially useful approaches, with the choice between them depending on which assumptions are most plausible for a given trial.
Power and Sample Size Calculations for Cluster Randomized Hybrid Type 2 Effectiveness‐Implementation Studies
Authors: Owen Melody A. , Curran Geoffrey M. , Smith Justin D. , Tedla Yacob , Cheng Chao , Spiegelman Donna
Published: February 2025

Hybrid studies allow investigators to simultaneously study an intervention effectiveness outcome and an implementation research outcome. In particular, type 2 hybrid studies support research that places equal importance on both outcomes rather than focusing on one and secondarily on the other (i.e., type 1 and type 3 studies). Hybrid 2 studies introduce the statistical issue of multiple testing, complicated by the fact that they are typically also cluster randomized trials. Standard statistical methods do not apply in this scenario. Here, we describe the design methodologies available for validly powering hybrid type 2 studies and producing reliable sample size calculations in a cluster‐randomized design with a focus on binary outcomes. Through a literature search, 18 publications were identified that included methods relevant to the design of hybrid 2 studies. Five methods were identified, two of which did not account for clustering but are extended in this article to do so, namely the combined outcomes approach and the single 1‐degree of freedom combined test. Procedures for powering hybrid 2 studies using these five methods are described and illustrated using input parameters inspired by a study from the Community Intervention to Reduce CardiovascuLar Disease in Chicago (CIRCL‐Chicago) Implementation Research Center. In this illustrative example, the intervention effectiveness outcome was controlled blood pressure, and the implementation outcome was reach. The conjunctive test resulted in higher power than the popular p value adjustment methods, and the newly extended combined outcomes and single 1‐DF test were found to be the most powerful among all of the tests.
Synthesis of Calix[4]Arene‐Based Functionalized TiO2 Nanocatalyst: An Efficient Agent for the Eco‐Friendly Conversion of Isopropyl Alcohol to Acetone
Authors: Chandio Anwar Ali , Memon Safia Sanam , Saleem Umaima , Memon Abul Wahab , Memon Ayaz Ali , Hyder Ali , Memon Shahabuddin , Kazi Mohsin , Thebo Khalid Hussain , Balouch Aamna
Published: February 2025

Acetone is a common solvent which is highly used in laboratory based experiments and industrial products. This valuable organic molecule is synthesized by catalytic conversion reactions. A catalyst is said to be very useful if it is efficient, economical and eco‐friendly In this regard; for the first time, a less toxic and easily synthesized supramolecular compound, that is, p‐sulfonatocalix[4]arene (pSC)‐based catalyst was fabricated and functionalized with TiO2 nanoparticles (TiO2‐pSC). The characterization of TiO2‐pSC was carried out by different analytical techniques such as Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscope (SEM), energy‐dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The TiO2‐pSC nanocomposites were used as heterogeneous catalyst for the conversion of isopropyl alcohol (IPA) into acetone. For the catalytic study, IPA, NaBH4, and TiO2‐pSC were mixed together in a flask, and the mixture was stirred at room temperature and the catalytic activity of TiO2‐pSC was monitored via UV–vis spectroscopy. On UV–vis spectrum, the characteristic absorption band for acetone was observed at 265 nm. The complete conversion of IPA into acetone was carried out within 35 to 40 s. Quantitative analysis of the catalyst (TiO2‐pSC) was also performed by using various amounts of catalyst in the range of 0.1 to 0.5 mg, and the catalyst showed approximately 100% conversion of IPA into acetone. Moreover, a reusability test of catalyst was also performed, and TiO2‐pSC proved to be an efficient catalyst because catalytic poisoning was negligible, which makes the catalyst more efficient and economical than other reported catalysts and this catalytic conversion is also ecofriendly as no hazardous solvent is used.
Exploring the Interactions of Ferrocenylmethylnucleobase Derivatives With BSA and HHb: Insights From Electrochemical, Spectroscopic, ADMET, in Silico Docking, and MD Simulations
Authors: AMOR Mohammed Larbi BEN , LANEZ Elhafnaoui , Bekkar Yahia , ADAIKA Aicha , LANEZ Touhami , NESBA Kaouther , BECHKI Lazhar
Published: February 2025

The present study has investigated the binding interactions of four N‐ferrocenylmethyl‐nucleobase derivatives: N1‐ferrocenylmethyladenine (FcMeAd), N1‐ferrocenylmethyl‐cytosine (FcMeCy), N1‐ferrocenylmethylthymine (FcMeTh), and N6,9‐bis(ferrocenyl‐methyl)adenine ((FcMe)2Ad), with human hemoglobin (HHb) and bovine serum albumin (BSA). A combination of absorption spectroscopy, cyclic voltammetry, molecular docking, and molecular dynamics simulations is employed to investigate these interactions. The obtained results demonstrated that these derivatives can bind to the target proteins, inducing conformational changes with the binding affinity order: FcMeCy > FcMeTh > FcMeAd > (FcMe)2Ad. Molecular docking studies identified the preferred binding sites and modes, revealing that hydrogen and hydrophobic predominantly facilitate the binding to BSA and HHb, also exhibiting π–π stacking interactions with FcMeCy and FcMeAd. Dynamic simulations of the FcMeCy‐BSA and FcMeCy‐HHb complexes, selected based on both experimental and theoretical results, further confirmed their stability within the protein binding pockets. The RMSD, RMSF, rGyr, SASA, H‐bonds, MolSA, and PSA parameters consistently indicated that FcMeCy maintains stability in the receptor binding site throughout the 100 ns simulation.