bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Retrofitted Hydrogen-Electric Propulsion Aircraft: Performance Simulation of Critical Operating Conditions
Authors: Lammen Wim , Dewitte Pieter-Jan , Scheers Elise
Published: January 2025

Retrofitting regional turboprop aircraft with hydrogen (H2)-electric powertrains, using fuel cell systems (FCSs), has gained interest in the last decade. This type of powertrain eliminates CO2, NOx, and fine particle emissions during flight, as FCSs only emit water. In this context, the “Hydrogen Aircraft Powertrain and Storage Systems” (HAPSS) project targets the development of a H2-electric propulsion system for retrofitting Dash 8-300 series aircraft. The purpose of the study described in this paper is to analyze the performance of the retrofitted H2-electric aircraft during critical operating conditions. Takeoff, as well as climb, cruise and go-around performances are addressed. The NLR in-house tool MASS (Mission, Aircraft and Systems Simulation) was used for the performance analyses. The results show that the retrofitted H2-electric aircraft has a slightly increased takeoff distance compared to the Dash 8-300 and it requires a maximum rated shaft power of 1.9 MW per propeller. A total rated FCS output power of 3.1 MW is sufficient to satisfy the takeoff requirements, at the cost of lower cruise altitude and reduced cruise speed as compared to the Dash 8-300. Furthermore, a higher-rated FCS is required to achieve the climb performance required for the typical climb profile of the Dash 8-300.
Short-Term Phosphorus Fertilization Alters Soil Fungal Community in Long-Term Phosphorus-Deprived Yellow Soil Paddy Fields
Authors: Yang Huan , Yang Yehua , Zhu Huaqing , Xiong Han , Zhang Yarong , Liu Yanling , Huang Xingcheng , Li Yu , Jiang Taiming
Published: January 2025

Phosphorus (P) in soil is important in the process by which soil microbial communities regulate soil enzyme activity. We aim to explore how short-term P fertilization affects the composition and functionality of the soil fungal community, offering insights into the complex responses of soil fungi to fertilization. Soil samples from a long-term experiment with no P fertilization were collected for pot experiments. The pot experiment included four treatments: non-P fertilizer (NK), chemical P fertilizer (NPK), 1/2 organic fertilizer + 1/2 chemical fertilizer (MNP), and organic fertilizer (M). High-throughput sequencing was employed to analyze the composition, diversity, and functionality of soil fungal communities. Results showed that short-term P addition significantly increased the soil fungal Shannon and Pielou e indices, with increases of 34.48%~59.00% and 29.79%~53.19%, respectively. Ascomycota and Basidiomycota were the most abundant fungal phyla, whereas Cladosporium and Emericellopsis were the most abundant genera. The main factors affecting soil fungal community composition were total nitrogen (TN) and organic matter (OM). A linear discriminant analysis effect size (LEfSe) analysis indicated that Mortierellomycota were significantly enriched under the NPK treatment. A FUNGuild analysis revealed that, compared to the NK treatment, the relative abundance of Animal Pathogen–Endophyte–Lichen Parasite–Plant Pathogen–Wood Saprotroph was reduced by 67.54%, 46.93%, and 44.10% under NPK, MNP, and M treatments, respectively. The relative abundance of Plant Pathogen was less than 1% in the NPK and the MNP treatments. These results indicate that short-term P addition increased soil nutrient levels and soil fungal community diversity. Chemical P fertilizer significantly improved the fungal community structure in yellow paddy soils, enhancing beneficial fungi and suppressing pathogens.
Genotypic Differences in Maize Root Morphology in Response to Low-Nitrogen Stress
Authors: Sun Xichao , Wang Peng , Mi Guohua
Published: January 2025

The root system plays an important role in the efficient absorption of nitrogen (N), but there is limited understanding of the growth characteristics of maize roots of different genotypes and their dynamic response to N supply. In this study, landraces in the 1950s and modern hybrids, modern hybrids and their parents, inbred lines with different N efficiency and standard inbred line B73 were used, combined with the dynamic culture method, to observe the dynamic changes in root growth under long-term N stress conditions. The results showed that there were genotypic differences in the response of maize roots to low N. Low N enhances root growth earlier than the increases in shoot-to-root dry matter allocation. With the extension of low N stress, the root biomass of each genotype basically increased significantly from 3 to 6 days and then was gradually reversed by high N on the 12th day. As for shoot biomass, 11 genotypes began to decrease significantly from 6 to 9 days after low-N stress. The total axial root length, primary root length, seminal root length, and the first and second whorl crown root length of seven genotypes were increased more or less under low N. With the extension of N stress, the number of third and fourth whorl crown roots decreased significantly, which indicated that regulation of root elongation is earlier than that of crown root initiation. As the degree of low-N stress increased, the trend of total lateral root length changes in different genotypes could be divided into three categories, indicating that the response of lateral root growth to low-N stress is genotype-dependent. With the advancement of the breeding process, the roots of modern hybrids become smaller but more responsive to low-N stress. The root phenotypes of Zhengdan958 and Xianyu335 come from different genetic models. Compared with embryonic roots, the crown roots of B73 have a more active role in adapting to low-N stress. Shoot N concentration may reflect plant internal N status, which plays a regulatory role in root morphogenesis.
Potential of Manure and Urea Fertilizer on Maize (Zea mays L.) Productivity and Soil Quality in the Northern Highlands of Tanzania
Authors: Mhoro Lydia , Meya Akida Ignas , Amuri Nyambilila Abdallah , Ndakidemi Patrick Alois , Njau Karoli Nicholas , Mtei Kelvin Mark
Published: January 2025

Many agricultural fields are no longer sustainable due to inadequate replenishment of soil nutrients through organic and inorganic inputs, particularly in smallholder farming systems. As a result, achieving potential crop yields in these systems has proven to be difficult. Field trials were conducted in two long rainy growing seasons in 2021 and 2023 to assess the effects of urea fertilizer and cattle manure as sources of nitrogen (N) on (i) maize crop yields and (ii) soil chemical properties at two sites (Kwa Sadala and Mungushi) located in Hai district, northern Tanzania. The trials employed a randomized complete block design with three replicates, including eight treatments. The treatments were: 0 fertilizer (control), 25, 50, 75 kg N ha−1 (sole urea), 12.5 kg N (urea) + 12.5 kg N (cattle manure), 25 kg N (urea) + 25 kg N (cattle manure), and 50 and 75 kg N (sole cattle manure). Results show that the highest application rate of urea (75 kg N ha−1) produced the highest grain yields of 4.21 and 4.09 t ha−1 in the 2021 season and 4.32 and 4.04 t ha−1 in the 2023 season at Kwa Sadala and Mungushi, respectively. The application of cattle manure at the highest rates increased the soil pH by 3.15 and 2.26% at Kwa Sadala and Mungushi, respectively. Similarly, soil total N, OC, available/extractable P, and exchangeable K increased by 100%, 56.3%, 52.36%, and 19.67%, respectively, at Kwa Sadala and by 16.67%, 18.13%, 20.95%, and 6.76%, respectively, at Mungushi. The use of urea alone at the higher rates or in combination with cattle manure at 50% each resulted in the highest net benefit (NB) in all sites. The findings from this study suggest that a comprehensive approach to managing soil nutrients, such as combining inorganic and organic inputs, may improve crop yields while maintaining soil health.
Microbiological Indicators for Assessing the Effects of Agricultural Practices on Soil Health: A Review
Authors: Semenov Mikhail V. , Zhelezova Alena D. , Ksenofontova Natalya A. , Ivanova Ekaterina A. , Nikitin Dmitry A. , Semenov Vyacheslav M.
Published: January 2025

Agricultural practices significantly impact soil properties and ecological functions, highlighting the importance of comprehensive soil health assessments. Traditionally, these assessments have focused on physical and chemical indicators, often neglecting microbiological properties. This review explores the potential of microbiological indicators in evaluating the effects of agricultural practices on soil ecological functions, emphasizing their significance and addressing challenges associated with their application. A key advantage of microbiological indicators is their high sensitivity and rapid response to environmental changes. These indicators can be grouped into three categories: microbial biomass and abundance, microbial taxonomic composition and diversity, and microbial activity. Among these, microbial biomass carbon, basal respiration, and decomposition rates are considered the most reliable and interpretable indicators. Microbial taxonomic composition and diversity remain limited in their diagnostic and predictive capabilities due to challenges in interpretation. Integrating microbiological indicators offers a more holistic understanding of the interactions between agricultural practices and soil health, enhancing our ability to monitor, manage, and preserve soil ecosystems. To facilitate their adoption in agricultural production and land management, further efforts are needed to improve the interpretability of these indicators and to establish standardized criteria for soil health assessment.
Strawberry and Drupe Fruit Wines Antioxidant Activity and Protective Effect Against Induced Oxidative Stress in Rat Synaptosomes
Authors: Čakar Uroš , Čolović Mirjana , Milenković Danijela , Pagnacco Maja , Maksimović Jelena , Krstić Danijela , Đorđević Brižita
Published: January 2025

The aim of this study was to investigate the antioxidant capacity of fruit wines and their protective effects against hydrogen peroxide-induced oxidative stress in rat synaptosomes in vitro. The wines were produced from strawberries and drupe fruits (i.e., plum, sweet cherry, peach, and apricot) through microvinification with a pure S. cerevisiae yeast culture. Fruit wines were produced with and without added sugar before the start of fermentation, whereas subvariants with and without pits were only applied to drupe fruit wines. First, synaptosomes were treated with the wines, while oxidative stress was induced with H2O2. Subsequently, the activities of antioxidant enzymes (superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione peroxidase (GPx)) and the content of malondialdehyde (MDA), an indicator of membrane injury, were determined. In addition, the Briggs–Rauscher reaction (BR) was used to evaluate the inhibition capacity against free radicals. All investigated fruit wines increased the activity of the studied antioxidant enzymes and decreased MDA content compared to the corresponding controls (synaptosomes treated with H2O2). After synaptosomal treatment with plum wine, the highest activities were observed for SOD (5.57 U/mg protein) and GPx (0.015 U/mg protein). Strawberry wine induced the highest CAT activity (0.047 U/mg protein) and showed the best ability to reduce lipid peroxidation, yielding the lowest MDA level (2.68 nmol/mg). Strawberry, plum, and sweet cherry wines were identified as samples with higher antioxidant activity in both principal component analysis (PCA) and hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA). Finally, plum wine exhibited the highest inhibitory activity in the BR reaction (397 s). The results suggest that fruit wines could be considered potential functional food due to their protective effects against oxidative stress.
Surface-Roughness Prediction Based on Small-Batch Workpieces for Smart Manufacturing: An Aerospace Robotic Grinding Case Study
Authors: Xiao Yi’nan , Wen Ke , Qu Yuanju , Mao Yanxi , Pan Yang
Published: January 2025

Small-batch workpieces in smart manufacturing demand process parameter modeling, but existing models lack analysis across varying sample sizes and runtime conditions. This study proposes a novel surface-roughness prediction method, Response Surface Methodology-BP Neural Network (RSM-BPNN), designed for experimental data from single small-batch workpieces with varying sample sizes. First, polynomial feature transformation and selection are performed based on the proposed process parameters to improve the feature quality of input data. Second, a Dynamic Central Composite Design-Response Surface Methodology (DCCD-RSM) determines the optimal experimental region and fits surface roughness, while a BPNN trains a deep learning model for prediction. The BPNN fusion method combines both approaches to create a general, adaptive predictive model for surface roughness. Finally, the accuracy and practicality of the BPNN model were verified through reverse calculation and parameter optimization in actual robot grinding experiments. The model demonstrated good predictive performance for surface roughness in aluminum alloy grinding, providing reliable guidance for surface quality prediction and process parameter optimization in small-batch workpieces within the context of smart manufacturing.
Reassigning Functionalities: On the Taifa “Perfume Bottle” or Canteen from Albarracin, Teruel
Authors: Silva Santa-Cruz Noelia
Published: January 2025

The silver-gilt container discovered in 1964 in the vicinity of Albarracin is currently housed in the Teruel Museum in Spain and represents a pinnacle of Taifa sumptuary arts. It was commissioned by the second monarch of the Kingdom of Albarracin, ‘Abd al-Malik ibn Khalaf (r. 1045-?), as a gift to his wife Zahr. The object’s elevated technical sophistication, coupled with its bespoke commemorative inscription, lends credence to the notion that it was crafted in the royal workshops responsible for the production of luxury items. The vessel’s functionality, which has fluctuated between its traditional consideration as a perfume bottle and the more recent identification as a canteen, has been adequately postulated but not sufficiently examined. The aim of this paper is to discuss the primary function of the object in question, particularly in relation to its distinctive flattened spherical shape. To achieve this, the study will delve into the close and well-established historical association between the morphology and function of objects, which tends to endure and perpetuate within the same cultural context over the centuries. By employing this methodology, we can establish a connection between the studied piece and the flasks used for the storage of sacred water (zamzam) that pilgrims brought back from Mecca after performing the Ḥajj. This typology can be traced back to the pre-Islamic period and persisted through the Ottoman matara model.
Evaluation of Replacement Hearing Aids in Cochlear Implant Candidates Using the Hearing in Noise Test (HINT) and Pupillometry
Authors: Jakobsen Yeliz , Faulkner Kathleen , Van Yper Lindsey , Schmidt Jesper Hvass
Published: January 2025

Background/Objectives: Advances in cochlear implant (CI) technology have led to the expansion of the implantation criteria. As a result, more CI candidates may have greater residual hearing in one or two ears. Many of these candidates will perform better with a CI in one ear and a hearing aid (HA) in the other ear, the so-called bimodal solution. The bimodal solution often requires patients to switch to HAs that are compatible with the CI. However, this can be a challenging decision, not least because it remains unclear whether this impacts hearing performance. Our aim is to determine whether speech perception in noise remains unchanged or improves with new replacement HAs compared to original HAs in CI candidates with residual hearing. Methods: Fifty bilateral HA users (mean age 63.4; range 23–82) referred for CI were recruited. All participants received new replacement HAs. The new HAs were optimally fitted and verified using Real Ear Measurement (REM). Participants were tested with the Hearing in Noise Test (HINT), which aimed at determining the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) required for a 70% correct word recognition score at a speech sound pressure level (SPL) of 65 dB. HINT testing was performed with both their original and new replacement HAs. During HINT, pupillometry was used to control for task engagement. Results: Replacing the original HAs with new replacement HAs after one month was not statistically significant with a mean change of SRT70 by −1.90 (95% CI: −4.69;0.89, p = 0.182) dB SNR. Conclusions: New replacement HAs do not impact speech perception scores in CI candidates prior to the decision of cochlear implantation.
Effects of Competition on Left Prefrontal and Temporal Cortex During Conceptual Comparison of Brand-Name Product Pictures: Analysis of fNIRS Using Tensor Decomposition
Authors: Barnhardt Terrence M. , Chan Jasmine Y. , Ghoraani Behnaz , Wilcox Teresa
Published: January 2025

Background/Objectives: Recent theories of the neurocognitive architecture of semantic memory have included a distinction between semantic control in the left inferior frontal gyrus (LIFG) and semantic representation in the left anterior temporal lobe (LATL). Support for this distinction has been found both in tasks in which high semantic selection demands have been instantiated and in tasks in which previous presentations of semantic information that compete with target information have been instantiated. Methods: In the current study, these manipulations were combined in a novel manner into a single task in which brand-name product pictures were used. Functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) was used to measure hemodynamic activity and tensor decomposition, in addition to grand averaging, was used to analyze the fNIRS output. Results: Both analytic methods converged on the same set of findings. That is, in line with past studies, greater activity in the LIFG was observed in the competitive condition than in a repeated condition. However, unlike past studies, greater activity in the competitive condition was also observed in both the left and right anterior temporal lobes (ATLs). Conclusions: While it was possible that the novel combination of high selection and competition into a single task unlocked a semantic selection mechanism in the bilateral ATL, a number of other post-hoc explanations were offered for this unusual finding, including a re-interpretation of the high-selection task as an ad hoc categorization task. Finally, the convergence of the tensor decomposition and grand averaging approaches on the same set of findings supported tensor decomposition as a viable approach to the analysis of fNIRS data.
Interpretation of the Jiangnan Landscape and Countryside (Shan-Shui) Pattern: Evidence from the Classification and Spatial Form of Traditional Settlements in the Nanxi River Basin
Authors: Huang Yuhao , Huang Yingying , Chen Yile , Yan Yu , Zheng Liang , Ying Ziyi
Published: January 2025

Against the backdrop of accelerated globalization and urbanization, traditional settlements in the Jiangnan waterside areas of China face challenges such as morphological distortion and a simplified spatial structure. The ecological adaptability and cultural value of settlements urgently need scientific protection. There has not been enough research on how to better classify settlements, how to conduct systematic morphological analysis, or how to use dynamic protection methods. This makes it hard to fully show the variety of settlement types and how they differ in different areas. To this end, this study uses a combination of GIS spatial analysis, type classification, and case study methods to classify and morphologically analyze 159 traditional settlement patches in the Nanxi River Basin. We construct a settlement type map from quantitative research on topographical, water system, and spatial morphological characteristics, and extract a spatial organization model of mountains and water. The results show the following: (1) The main morphological types, such as the plain–waterfront–strip-shaped and cluster-shaped/finger-shaped types, are typical patterns of traditional settlements in the basin. This indicates how well settlements can adapt to their natural surroundings. (2) This study summarizes six typical settlement sample spaces. (3) The settlement digital protection strategy suggested in this paper uses GIS and 3D modeling technology to make it easier to record, show, and manage information about settlement spaces. This offers a new way to protect traditional settlements scientifically. The study not only enriches the theoretical understanding of the settlement morphology of Jiangnan landscape pastoral areas but also provides an important reference for the protection and sustainable development of settlements in similar basins around the world.
Waste Recovery and Thermal Analysis of Refurbished Buildings’ Walls: The Sustainable Big Bag
Authors: Vecchi Valentina , Di Giovanni Gianni , De Gregorio Stefania , Laurini Eleonora , de Rubeis Tullio
Published: January 2025

The construction sector has a high environmental impact, especially due to C&D waste. At the same time, the increase in the temperature of the Earth’s surface due to pollution requires interventions on the built environment, aimed at improving the performance of the envelope in hot climates. In the literature, there are studies on components to increase thermal efficiency, but they are limited by long or expensive production processes or high environmental impact. This research considers Italy as a reference area. The aim of this research is to design, prototype, and verify a sustainable component to be included in the stratigraphy of light mass vertical closures to increase their heat capacity that allows for the reuse of C&D waste and the optimization of site operations both in the selective demolition phase and in the redevelopment phase of the building. The method follows the following phases: analysis of the type of waste from C&D, analysis of international best practices, analysis of the possibilities of intervention on vertical closures according to the pre-existing structure and choice of cases of greatest scientific interest, design of the sustainable big bag by reusing inert materials from selective demolition and recycled polypropylene fabrics, prototyping and verification by laboratory tests, and software analysis to verify the thermal advantage. The use of the sustainable big bag allows for construction advantages, facilitating site operations both in the construction and waste disposal phases, energy advantages by improving the heat capacity of the envelope, and increases in the sustainability of the intervention through the reuse of waste materials.
Multi-Objective Optimization of Building Energy Consumption: A Case Study of Temporary Buildings on Construction Sites
Authors: Guo Xiaohui , Wang Yuanfeng , Liu Yinshan , Fan Lei , Xue Shaoqin , Shi Chengcheng , Pan Lei , Zhang Boqun , Wang Liping , Chang Xinlei
Published: January 2025

Building energy consumption management significantly impacts energy efficiency, environmental effects, and economic benefits throughout a building’s life cycle. Optimizing building energy consumption has become a great challenge in the field of green buildings. This paper proposes an automated simulation method that integrates the EnergyPlus energy consumption simulation tool with Python scripting. This approach efficiently generates large volumes of energy consumption data and supports the development of machine learning surrogate models, thereby enhancing simulation efficiency and reducing computational costs. Based on this foundation, the multi-objective optimization algorithm NSGA-III is introduced to achieve a balanced optimization of three primary objectives: building energy consumption, photovoltaic electricity generation, and thermal comfort. Through a systematic analysis of a case study involving an office building and dormitory at a construction site in China, the effects of building envelope, air conditioning systems, and occupant behavior on energy consumption are examined. The optimization results indicate that energy consumption is reduced by 41% for the office building and 38% for the dormitory. Additionally, photovoltaic electricity generation increases by 176% and 169% compared to the baseline model, while thermal comfort improves by 19% and 6%, respectively. These improvements significantly enhance energy self-sufficiency and residential comfort.
Advances in the Repurposing and Blood–Brain Barrier Penetrance of Drugs in Pediatric Brain Tumors
Authors: Rechberger Julian S. , Toll Stephanie A. , Biswas Subhasree , You Hyo Bin , Chow William D. , Kendall Nicholas , Navalkele Pournima , Khatua Soumen
Published: January 2025

Central nervous system (CNS) tumors are the leading cause of cancer-related mortality in children, with prognosis remaining dismal for some of these malignancies. Though the past two decades have seen advancements in surgery, radiation, and targeted therapy, major unresolved hurdles continue to undermine the therapeutic efficacy. These include challenges in suboptimal drug delivery through the blood–brain barrier (BBB), marked intra-tumoral molecular heterogeneity, and the elusive tumor microenvironment. Drug repurposing or re-tasking FDA-approved drugs with evidence of penetration into the CNS, using newer methods of intracranial drug delivery facilitating optimal drug exposure, has been an area of intense research. This could be a valuable tool, as most of these agents have already gone through the lengthy process of drug development and the evaluation of safety risks and the optimal pharmacokinetic profile. They can now be used and tested in clinics with an accelerated and different approach. Conclusions: The next-generation therapeutic strategy should prioritize repurposing oncologic and non-oncologic drugs that have been used for other indication, and have demonstrated robust preclinical activity against pediatric brain tumors. In combination with novel drug delivery techniques, these drugs could hold significant therapeutic promise in pediatric neurooncology.
Correction: Kowaluk et al. Physical Activity Level and Quality of Life of Children Treated for Malignancy, Depending on Their Place of Residence: Poland vs. the Czech Republic: An Observational Study. Cancers 2023, 15, 4695
Authors: Kowaluk Aleksandra , Siewierska Katarzyna , Choniawkova Marie , Sedlacek Petr , Kałwak Krzysztof , Malicka Iwona
Published: January 2025

Additional Affiliation [...]
Heterogeneity in Cancer
Authors: MacDonald William J. , Purcell Connor , Pinho-Schwermann Maximilian , Stubbs Nolan M. , Srinivasan Praveen R. , El-Deiry Wafik S.
Published: January 2025

Cancer heterogeneity is a major challenge in oncology, complicating diagnosis, prognostication, and treatment. The clinical heterogeneity of cancer, which leads to differential treatment outcomes between patients with histopathologically similar cancers, is attributable to molecular diversity manifesting through genetic, epigenetic, transcriptomic, microenvironmental, and host biology differences. Heterogeneity is observed between patients, individual metastases, and within individual lesions. This review discusses clinical implications of heterogeneity, emphasizing need for personalized approaches to overcome challenges posed by cancer’s diverse presentations. Understanding of emerging molecular diagnostic and analytical techniques can provide a view into the multidimensional complexity of cancer heterogeneity. With over 90% of cancer-related deaths associated with metastasis, we additionally explore the role heterogeneity plays in treatment resistance and recurrence of metastatic lesions. Molecular insights from next-generation sequencing, single-cell transcriptomics, liquid biopsy technology, and artificial intelligence will facilitate the development of combination therapy regimens that can potentially induce lasting and even curative treatment outcomes.
TLR2-Bound Cancer-Secreted Hsp70 Induces MerTK-Mediated Immunosuppression and Tumorigenesis in Solid Tumors
Authors: Kaynak Ahmet , Vallabhapurapu Subrahmanya D. , Davis Harold W. , Smith Eric P. , Muller Petr , Vojtesek Borek , Franco Robert S. , Shao Wen-Hai , Qi Xiaoyang
Published: January 2025

Background: A hallmark of cancer is the presence of an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME). Immunosuppressive M2 macrophages (MΦs) in the TME facilitate escape from immune surveillance and promote tumor growth; therefore, TME-induced immunosuppression is a potent immunotherapeutic approach to treating cancer. Methods: Cancer cell-secreted proteins were detected by using liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC-MS). Neutralizing antibodies (nAbs) were used to assess which proteins were involved in MΦs polarization and differentiation. The protein–protein interaction was characterized using co-immunoprecipitation and immunofluorescence assays. Cancer-secreted heat shock protein 70 (Hsp70) protein was quantified using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). MΦ polarization and tumor growth were assessed in vivo with subcutaneous LLC-GFP tumor models and toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2) knockout mice; in vitro assessments were conducted using TLR2 knockout and both LLC-GFP and LN227 lentiviral-mediated knockdown (KD) cells. Results: Cancer cells released a secreted form of Hsp70 that acted on MΦ TLR2 to upregulate Mer receptor tyrosine kinase (MerTK) and induce MΦ M2 polarization. Hsp70 nAbs led to a reduction in CD14 expression by 75% in THP-1 cells in response to Gli36 EMD-CM. In addition, neutralizing TLR2 nAbs resulted in a 30% and 50% reduction in CD14 expression on THP-1 cells in response to MiaPaCa-2 and Gli36 exosome/microparticle-depleted conditioned media (EMD-CMs), respectively. Hsp70, TLR2, and MerTK formed a protein complex. Tumor growth and intra-tumor M2 MΦs were significantly reduced upon cancer cell Hsp70 knockdown and in TLR2 knockout mice. Conclusions: Cancer-secreted Hsp70 interacts with TLR2, upregulates MerTK on MΦs, and induces immunosuppressive MΦ M2 polarization. This previously unreported action of secreted Hsp70 suggests that disrupting the Hsp70-TLR2-MerTK interaction could serve as a promising immunotherapeutic approach to mitigate TME immunosuppression in solid cancers.
Tracking Secondary Raw Material Operational Framework—DataOps Case Study
Authors: Pestana Gabriel , Almeida Marisa , Martins Nelson
Published: January 2025

The ceramic and glass industries, integral to the EU Emissions Trading System (EU ETS), face significant challenges in achieving decarbonization despite advancements in energy efficiency. The circular economy offers a promising pathway, emphasizing the reuse and recycling of waste materials into secondary raw materials (SRMs) to reduce resource consumption and emissions. This study investigates a standardized waste supply chain framework, developed collaboratively with stakeholders, tailored for the ceramic sector. The Waste Resource Platform (WRP) integrates Industry 4.0 paradigms, utilizing a modular, layered architecture and a process-centric design. The framework includes experimental tests and co-creation methodologies to refine a digital marketplace that connects stakeholders, facilitates SRM exchange, and fosters industrial symbiosis. The WRP demonstrates the potential for SRMs to replace virgin materials, reducing environmental impacts and production costs. It enhances supply chain transparency through digital traceability, promotes predictive material sourcing, and streamlines logistics via algorithmic optimization. Challenges such as regulatory gaps and quality standards are addressed through standardized processes, open data governance, and innovative algorithms. The WRP project advances circular economy goals in the ceramic sector, promoting waste reuse, industrial symbiosis, and supply chain resilience. Its standardized, open-access platform offers a scalable model for other industries, fostering sustainable practices and resource efficiency while addressing global climate targets.
Lepidopteran Biodiversity in Madagascar’s Eastern Forests: Assessing Species Distribution Across Protected and Anthropized Landscapes
Authors: Hannoteau Robin , Ravalison Finaritra Antra Tia , Randrianarivelo Brayan Fenontsoa , Ravelomanana Andrianjaka , Trolin Naya , Caparros Megido Rudy , Segers Arnaud , Francis Frédéric , Noël Grégoire
Published: January 2025

Madagascar, renowned for its unique biodiversity, faces significant environmental threats. Despite their vital ecosystem services, invertebrates, such as Lepidoptera, remain understudied, especially within the Malagasy Island. Indeed, butterflies and moths often serve as biodiversity indicators. This study investigates lepidopteran community structure across different habitat types: protected areas and anthropized areas, represented by forest edges and agroforestry through four expeditions to Madagascar’s moist eastern forests. Both sampling methods were employed including butterfly nets and fermented fruit-baited traps. While nets accounted for 90% of captures, highlighting operator bias, bait traps captured unique species, emphasizing the complementarity of these methods. With over 891 captured specimens, 418 macrolepidopterans were identified at the species level for a total of 50 species. Protected forests hosted 80% of endemic Lepidoptera reliant on specialized ecological niches, while anthropized zones were dominated by common generalist species which are resilient to habitat changes. While the species richness and composition of sampled microlepidoptera are similar, habitat fragmentation created diverse environmental conditions, hosting specific populations. Conservation challenges persist, particularly for endemic species vulnerable to poaching. It is crucial to continue sampling Madagascar’s lepidofauna, as this offers considerable potential for the sustainable maintenance of ecosystems and the long-term preservation of biodiversity of the Malagasy Island.
A Multimodal Dataset of Fact-Checked News from Chile’s Constitutional Processes: Collection, Processing, and Analysis
Authors: Molina Ignacio , Keith Brian , Matus Mauricio
Published: January 2025

This paper presents a multimodal dataset capturing fact-checked news coverage of Chile’s constitutional processes from 2019–2023. The collection comprises 300 articles from three sources: Fast Check, Fact Checking UC, and BioBioChile, containing 242,687 words of text and visual content in 168 entries. The dataset implements advanced natural language processing through RoBERTa and computer vision techniques via EfficientNet, with unified multimodal analysis using the CLIP model. Technical validation through clustering analysis and expert review demonstrates the dataset’s effectiveness in identifying narrative patterns within constitutional process coverage. The structured format includes verification metadata, precomputed embeddings, and documented relationships between textual and visual elements. This enables research into how misinformation propagates through multiple channels during significant political events. This paper details the dataset’s composition, collection methodology, and validation while acknowledging specific limitations. This contribution addresses a gap in current research resources by providing verified multimodal content spanning two constitutional processes, supporting investigations in computational social science and misinformation studies.
Three-Dimensional Printed Auxetic Insole Orthotics for Flat Foot Patients with Quality Function Development/Theory of Inventive Problem Solving/Analytical Hierarchy Process Methods
Authors: Simarmata Tadeus Pantryan , Martawidjaja Marcel , Harito Christian , Tobing Cokisela C. L.
Published: January 2025

Foot disorders affect approximately 10% of adults, with plantar heel pain significantly impacting foot-related quality of life and altering walking patterns. Flat feet, characterized by a lack of longitudinal arches, can lead to fatigue during walking. This study aims to develop 3D-printed shoe insoles tailored to the needs of patients. The design process incorporates Quality Function Deployment (QFD), Theory of Inventive Problem Solving (TRIZ), and Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) methods to create insoles that alleviate concentrated loads while meeting patient requirements. The AHP analysis indicated that patients prioritize insoles that effectively manage pressure distribution to achieve optimal functionality. QFD and TRIZ facilitated the identification of four product alternatives and production specifications. The analysis indicated that 3D-printed insoles made from TPU filament with 20% auxetic infill best align with patient preferences. This auxetic TPU option emerged as the top choice, achieving a priority value of 0.2506 due to its superior functionality and comfort. Load distribution measurements confirmed that TPU with auxetic infill resulted in the lowest load distribution, with a standard deviation of 0.1434 and a 25.4% reduction in maximum load compared to conditions without the insole.
How Do Different Image Modules Impact the Accuracy of Working Length Measurements in Digital Periapical Radiography? An In Vitro Study
Authors: Abat Vahide Hazal , Kaptan Rabia Figen
Published: January 2025

Background/Objectives: This study aims to evaluate the accuracy of digital dental radiography in determining working length in root canal treatment via various image modules. Methods: A total of 40 intact single-rooted, single-canal human premolar teeth were examined. Following meticulous cleaning, the teeth were placed in a maxillary premolar socket within a dry human skull. X-ray images were systematically captured via a Carestream RVG digital sensor under standardized conditions. The digital images are processed under five distinct image modules: 1. original module, 2. autoenhancement module, 3. autoenhancement+negative module, 4. negative module, 5. colored module. Three calibrated observers determined the working length of each digital radiograph after the specified image modules were applied. The agreement between the actual working length and the lengths determined by the observers was evaluated via Pearson correlation analysis. A significance level of 0.05 was set for the statistical tests. Results: A high level of intra- and interobserver agreement, with a strong correlation between the actual measurements and all image module groups, was obtained (p < 0.001). The original image module group demonstrated the highest compatibility (ICC = 0.940, r = 0.912), whereas the colored image module group exhibited the lowest compatibility (ICC = 0.924, r = 0.879) with the actual measurement. Conclusions: This study demonstrates the accuracy of digital radiography in determining working length through the application of various image modules, with the original image module exhibiting the closest alignment to actual working lengths. These findings support the continued use and further development of computer-based image processing tools to optimize clinical outcomes in root canal therapy.
Burden and Economic Impact of Respiratory Viral Infections in Adults Aged 60 and Older: A Focus on RSV
Authors: Peláez Adrián , Jimeno Ruiz Sara , Villarreal Mercedes , Gil Manuel , Gutiérrez Inés , Sanz Marta , Martínez Silvina Natalini
Published: January 2025

Background/Objectives: Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) represents a significant cause of acute respiratory infections (ARIs) in adults aged 60 years and older, often leading to severe clinical outcomes and high healthcare costs. This study aimed to evaluate the clinical and economic burden of RSV compared to other ARIs, focusing on specific age groups, comorbidities, and demographic factors. Methods: A retrospective observational study was conducted using the electronic medical records of adults aged ≥60 years hospitalized for ARIs, including RSV, in Spain. Direct costs related to hospitalizations, intensive care unit (ICU) admissions, and treatments were analyzed. The study also assessed demographic, clinical, and comorbidity-related factors influencing the economic burden. Results: RSV infections resulted in significantly higher direct costs compared to other ARIs, particularly in patients aged 70–80 years. Comorbidities such as asthma and smoking history were associated with increased costs in RSV cases. Although ICU costs were comparable between groups, hospitalizations for RSV required longer stays and more intensive treatments, amplifying the overall economic burden. Differences in costs by age and sex highlighted the need for tailored clinical management strategies. Conclusions: RSV poses a substantial economic and clinical burden on adults aged 60 years and older, particularly in those with comorbidities. Preventive measures, such as vaccination, could reduce healthcare costs and improve outcomes in this vulnerable population. These findings support the inclusion of RSV vaccines in immunization programs, especially in aging populations like Spain, to alleviate healthcare pressures during peak respiratory disease seasons.
Efficient Coverage Path Planning for a Drone in an Urban Environment
Authors: Sabag Joanne , Pinkovich Barak , Rivlin Ehud , Rotstein Hector
Published: January 2025

Multirotor drones play an increasingly significant role in smart cities and are among the most widely discussed emerging technologies. They are expected to support various applications such as package delivery, data collection, traffic policing, surveillance, and medicine. As part of their services, future drones should be able to solve the last-mile challenge and land safely in urban areas. This paper addresses the path planning task for an autonomous drone searching for a landing place in an urban environment. Our algorithm uses a novel multi-resolution probabilistic approach in which visual information is collected by the drone at decreasing altitudes. As part of the exploration task, we present the Global Path Planning (GPP) problem, which uses probabilistic information and the camera’s field of view to plan safe trajectories that will maximize the search success by covering areas with high potential for proper landing while avoiding no-fly zones and complying with time constraints. The GPP problem is formulated as a minimization problem and then is shown to be NP-hard. As a baseline, we develop an approximation algorithm based on an exhaustive search, and then we devise a more complex yet efficient heuristic algorithm to solve the problem. Finally, we evaluate the algorithms’ performance using simulation experiments. Simulation results obtained from various scenarios show that the proposed heuristic algorithm significantly reduces computation time while keeping coverage performance close to the baseline. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first work referring to a multi-resolution approach to such search missions; further, in particular, the GPP problem has not been addressed previously.
High-Voltage Pulsed Power Generator for Beam Injection Systems
Authors: Smirnov Alexander , Ivanov Evgeny , Pronikov Alexei , Kutsaev Sergey
Published: January 2025

Beam injection systems in hadron colliders require kickers generating ±50 kV peak voltages into a 50 Ω impedance, with peak currents of 1000 A and sub-10 ns rise and fall times. This paper presents a novel high-voltage pulse power generator utilizing a distributed pulser architecture. It combines gallium nitride (GaN) transistors in a Marx topology with an inductive adder, achieving nanosecond-scale switching speeds and high-power efficiency. Compared to other solutions such as based on MOSFETs or fast ionization dynistors, our development offers superior peak and average power performance, reduced system complexity, and enhanced reliability, marking a significant step forward in high-voltage pulse generation for accelerator applications.
Priority Effect of Endophyte Community in Newly Fallen Leaves of Quercus acutissima Carruth. on Litter Decomposition and Saprotrophic Microbial Community
Authors: Yang Dongmei , Lin Yonghui , He Zaihua , He Xingbing , Kong Xiangshi
Published: January 2025

This study examines the role of endophytic microbial colonization on the decomposition of oak leaf litter, a high-quality substrate in forest ecosystems. Over a one-year incubation, we observed a significant reduction in mass loss in colonized litter (46%) compared to non-colonized litter (80%), indicating an inhibitory effect of endophytes on decomposition. Structural equation modeling revealed a bimodal impact of endophytic microbes, with an initial enhancement followed by a pronounced inhibition as decomposition progressed. Extracellular enzyme stoichiometry showed phosphorus limitation became significant, particularly with endophytic colonization, contributing to reduced decomposition rates. Microbial diversity analyses exposed the variable impacts of endophytic colonization on fungal and bacterial communities, with taxa such as Helotiales (order) and Burkholderia–Caballeronia–Paraburkholderia (genus) significantly affected. The identification of 16 keystone species, mostly endophytic bacteria, underscored their pivotal influence on decomposition processes. Despite initial endophytic impacts, abundant carbon resources promoted stochastic colonization, potentially surpassing the effects of early endophytic establishment. This study provides insights into the priority effects of endophytic colonization and niche differentiation, offering a foundation for further research into the mechanisms underlying these processes and their ecological consequences in various ecosystems.
Spurious Aeroacoustic Emissions in Lattice Boltzmann Simulations on Non-Uniform Grids
Authors: Schukmann Alexander , Haas Viktor , Schneider Andreas
Published: January 2025

Although there do exist a few aeroacoustic studies on harmful artificial phenomena related to the usage of non-uniform Cartesian grids in lattice Boltzmann methods (LBM), a thorough quantitative comparison between different categories of grid arrangement is still missing in the literature. In this paper, several established schemes for hierarchical grid refinement in lattice Boltzmann simulations are analyzed with respect to spurious aeroacoustic emissions using a weakly compressible model based on a D3Q19 athermal velocity set. In order to distinguish between various sources of spurious phenomena, we deploy both the classical Bhatnagar–Gross–Krook and other more recent collision models like the hybrid recursive-regularization operator, the latter of which is able to filter out detrimental non-hydrodynamic mode contributions, inherently present in the LBM dynamics. We show by means of various benchmark simulations that a cell-centered approach, either with a linear or uniform explosion procedure, as well as a vertex-centered direct-coupling method, proves to be the most suitable with regards to aeroacoustics, as they produce the least amount of spurious noise. Furthermore, it is demonstrated how simple modifications in the selection of distribution functions to be reconstructed during the communication step between fine and coarse grids affect spurious aeroacoustic artifacts in vertex-centered schemes and can thus be leveraged to positively influence stability and accuracy.