bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
General Decay and Blowing‐Up Solutions of a Nonlinear Wave Equation With Nonlocal in Time Damping and Infinite Memory
Authors: Kirane Mokhtar , Aounallah Radhouane , Jlali Lotfi
Published: February 2025

This paper shows that long‐term stability and blowing‐up solutions for a nonlinear wave equation with a nonlocal damping of Choi and MacCamy type and a nonlocal dispersion can occur. The method of proof of general decay relies on a suitable Lyapunov functional. The method of proof of blow up in finite time of some solutions relies on the concavity method.
Exact Controllability for the Quasilinear Perturbations of the Kawahara Equation
Authors: Jin Yanpeng , Fu Ying , Wu Xiaoping
Published: February 2025

This paper is devoted to studying the exact controllability for the Kawahara equation under the influence of quasilinear perturbations for sufficiently small data on the circle with localized control, the nonlinearities containing up to five space derivatives and having a Hamiltonian structure at the space derivatives of the highest order. Firstly, we conjugate the associated linearized operator to a time‐dependent variable coefficient operator up to a bounded remainder. The major difficulties come from five space derivatives and the coupling of the coefficient of the highest order term with the coefficients of other terms. The strategy adopted is to look for appropriate transformations, which are reversible and satisfy the sharp bounds for the reducibility. Then, from the observability and controllability of the corresponding linear control problem, the existence of the right inverse for the linearized operator is verified. Finally, the application of the Nash–Moser–Hörmander theorem implies the exact controllability for the Kawahara equation with the quasilinear perturbations.
Impact of Disease Duration and Onset Pattern on Treatment Delays and Progression of Rheumatoid Arthritis: Insights From a Pakistani Cohort
Authors: Khan Asadullah , Ahmed Junaid , Kazmi Sakina , Raza Khan Rabbey , Ahmed Naseer , Khan Ilsa
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Early diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is crucial to prevent joint damage and improve treatment outcomes. RA cases that are not polyarticular at onset, and/or are not beginning in the hand joints may face diagnostic delays, because of more convincing alternate diagnoses. This study examines the prevalence of onset pattern and location and its impact on diagnostic timing and disease progression in RA.

Methods

This prospective cross‐sectional study was conducted at Sandeman Provincial Hospital Quetta, Pakistan (January–December 2022). Adults aged 17 years & above with RA meeting ACR criteria 2010 were included using a consecutive sampling technique. The associations were measured by Chi‐squared and Cramer's V test. Bivariate and multinominal Regression models were used to analyse the duration and pattern of disease, delay in diagnosis and location of onset.

Results

Twelve hundred RA patients (966, 82.8% female) with a median age of 42 (IQR: 33–55), and a median disease duration of 5 years (IQR: 2–8), both positively skewed, were included in the study. At‐least 408 (34%) patients had non‐polyarticular onset at initial presentation, and around 458 (38%) patients had the onset on illness not beginning in the small joints of hands. Non‐hand onset was significantly associated with age of onset, being 2.5 times higher in juvenile onset than in adult onset (OR = 2.515, p = 0.035). A diagnostic delay of 17.8 ± 27.9 months was found in the cohort, correlating significantly with total duration of disease (p < 0.01), pattern of disease (polyarticular vs. non polyarticular, p < 0.050) and with female gender (p = 0.014) but not with area of onset.

Conclusions

RA onset outside the hands with non‐polyarticular patterns accounts for nearly one‐third of cases, emphasising the need for a more easily accessible rheumatology care to reduce delays and mitigate prolonged disease impact.
When Grand Societal Challenges Stimulate the Creation of Public Value: A Study of Nurses in a Non‐Western Public Healthcare Sector
Authors: Mousa Mohamed , Althalathini Doaa , Puhakka Vesa
Published: February 2025

This study aims to explore the extent to which grand societal challenges motivate street‐level bureaucrats to actively create public value and why. The empirical sample comprises semi‐structured interviews with 36 nurses working in four public hospitals in Egypt. Thematic analysis was subsequently applied to the transcripts from the semi‐structured interviews to highlight the main themes linked to this topic. The findings show that the respondents (nurses in this case) have accepted the idea of creating public value through working extra unpaid hours, engaging actively in night shifts, and treating incoming refugees. This is a result of the following three categories of motives: Humanitarian (religious considerations, appreciation and praise from refugees, desire to emigrate), Job‐related (greater sense of discretionary power, implementing the orientation or directions of the hospital administration, exploiting recent developments in medical instruments) and Patriotic motives (understanding that refugees are a source of foreign currency, creating a culturally diverse climate which Egypt lacks, ensuring partnership between hospitals and the private sector). This study contributes to emerging literature on grand societal challenges and the creation of public value by street‐level bureaucrats on which empirical studies are rare, particularly in the context of developing nations.
PET Response and Outcome in Low‐Risk Nodular Lymphocyte‐Predominant Hodgkin Lymphoma: Children's Oncology Group Study AHOD03P1
Authors: Marks Lianna J. , Wu Yue , McCarten Kathleen M. , Renfro Lindsay A. , Pei Qinglin , Kelly Kara M. , Schwartz Cindy L. , Castellino Sharon M. , Appel Burton E.
Published: February 2025

A better understanding of positron emission tomography (PET) response in nodular lymphocyte‐predominant Hodgkin lymphoma (nLPHL) is critical for incorporating PET into prospective trials. PET scans from Children's Oncology Group study AHOD03P1 for patients less than 22 years with low‐risk nLPHL, treated with three cycles of doxorubicin, vincristine, prednisone, and cyclophosphamide chemotherapy, were retrospectively reviewed and assigned Deauville 5‐point scale (5PS) scores. Five‐year post‐PET event‐free survival was 90.1% (80% CI: 85.2%–93.4%) for PET‐negative (5PS 1–3) and 66.7% (80% CI: 36.4%–85.0%) for PET‐positive (5PS 4–5) patients. PET response after three cycles of low‐dose chemotherapy is predictive of relapse risk for low‐risk nLPHL.
Optimization of EMI shielding performance of MXene‐epoxy nanocomposite coatings: MXene Loading and thickness study
Authors: Roohani Yasamin , Yahyaei Hossein
Published: February 2025

The burgeoning prevalence of electronic devices necessitates effective control of electromagnetic interference (EMI) to prevent device malfunctions and safeguard environmental and human health. MXene, with its unique combination of high electrical conductivity and large surface area, emerges as a promising candidate for EMI shielding applications. This study investigates the influence of MXene nanoparticle concentration and coating thickness on the EMI shielding effectiveness (EMI SE) of epoxy‐MXene nanocomposite coatings. Ti3C2 MXene was synthesized and incorporated into epoxy matrices at varying loadings (3–30 wt.%) to fabricate coatings with thicknesses of 100 μm and 1 mm. Results demonstrate a significant enhancement in EMI SE, ranging from 5 to 39 dB in the X‐band (7.5–13 GHz), with increasing MXene content. Moreover, the mechanical properties of the epoxy matrix were observed to improve with the addition of MXene, particularly at higher concentrations. Notably, while low MXene loadings initially resulted in a slight reduction in Young's modulus, subsequent increases in MXene content led to substantial enhancements in both modulus and strength. Dynamic mechanical analysis revealed a trend towards increased elastic behavior and reduced energy dissipation with higher MXene content. This study highlights the potential of MXene‐based epoxy composites as high‐performance EMI shielding materials with tailored mechanical properties.

Highlights

Successful MXene synthesis confirmed by x‐ray diffraction.

Enhanced EMI shielding in MXene‐epoxy composites.

Thicker composites improved SEA and SET.

Higher MXene content generally improved EMI shielding.

MXene‐reinforced composites offer promising potential for EMI shielding.
Reinforcement of jute fiber and aluminum trihydrate in a novel biopolymer synthesized through citric acid and glycerol (polyglycerol citrate)
Authors: Malik Rizwan Ahmed
Published: February 2025

A novel thermoset biopolymer was developed from citric acid and glycerol (referred to as Polyglycerol citrate (PGC)) through polycondensation. PGC is a completely biodegradable and water‐soluble polymer, but it has poor thermal stability, fire retardant and mechanical properties. To enhance the usability of this material in food packaging, insulations, and other domestic products, its strength was enhanced by reinforcement through jute fiber (JF) which is also biodegradable and environmentally friendly. The thermal stability and fire‐retardant properties of the jute/PGC composite were improved by incorporating aluminum trihydride (ATH) particles in it. The concentration of ATH was varied between 0% and 12% to evaluate the optimum composition for improved thermal, mechanical and flammability properties. The strength and modulus of the material were evaluated using a tensile test while the fire retardant and thermal properties were determined using burning tests, cone calorimetry and thermogravimetric analysis. The surface morphology was studied through a scanning electron microscope. The maximum tensile strength was obtained by incorporating 9% ATH in the jute/PGC composite, which is 236% higher than the strength of neat PGC resin. Similarly, the heat release rate of jute/PGC composite was reduced by 17% with the incorporation of ATH particles. Also, the burning rate of jute/PGC was reduced by 72%. Thermal stability was also observed to improve. Possible chemical interaction between the constituents of the composite was confirmed through Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The biodegradation of the composite specimens was validated through a soil burial test.

Highlights

A novel biopolymer (PGC) was synthesized using citric acid and glycerol.

PGC was reinforced with jute fiber to enhance its mechanical properties.

ATH was added into the PGC/jute composite to improve its thermal stability.

Jute and ATH have OH interaction with the constituents of the PGC resin.

The jute/ATH/PGC composites are biodegradable and non‐toxic.
Synergistic effects of styrene grafting and cellulose reinforcement on thermal and mechanical properties of deproteinized natural rubber
Authors: Tuyet Tran Thi , Thuy Tran Thi , Minh Pham Duc , Nam Vu Trung , Bang Nguyen Cong , Ha Nguyen Thu , Mai Nguyen Ngoc
Published: February 2025

This study investigated the possibility of integrating natural rubber (NR) with various forms of cellulose (Cell) to develop new composites that enhance physical properties. For the first time, the innovative composites were fabricated from blending the modified deproteinized natural rubber (DPNR) by a graft copolymerization process using styrene as the continuous phase and cellulose as the reinforcing phase. Cellulose interacts with rubber segments, leading to improvements in heat resistance and tensile strength in comparison with NR. Herein, microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) and cellulose nanofiber (CNF) are the two cellulose forms utilized. The particle size and the amount of the cellulose have an impact on the thermomechanical properties of the composites. Both MCC/DPNR‐g‐PS 1% and CNF/DPNR‐g‐PS 1% demonstrated an improvement in mechanical properties over conventional DPNR and DPNR‐g‐PS. Notably, tensile strength increased threefold for MCC/DPNR‐g‐PS 1% (6.52 ± 0.31 MPa) and fivefold for CNF/DPNR‐g‐PS 1% (11.97 ± 0.34 MPa) compared to DPNR (2.09 ± 0.12 MPa). Furthermore, the glass transition temperature increased by 1.31°C for MCC/DPNR‐g‐PS 1% and by 1.34°C for CNF/DPNR‐g‐PS 1% compared to DPNR, indicating improved thermal stability. The decomposition temperature also increased for both composites. These findings showed that the novel structural formation of Cell/DPNR‐g‐PS composites offers promising alternatives to conventional vulcanized NR reinforced with sulfur, carbon black, or silica. The improved thermomechanical properties of these composite materials make them potential candidates for various applications.

Highlights

A novel composite material fabricated from renewable natural resources.

Cell/DPNR‐g‐PS thermal‐mechanical properties are enhanced in comparison to NR.

Graft copolymerization improves DPNR interaction with cellulose.

The size and content of cellulose impact the properties of Cell/DPNR‐g‐PS.
V‐shaped truss‐like cores for improving mechanical properties of woven lattice sandwich composites
Authors: Wang Ben , Yan Qu , Fan Hualin
Published: February 2025

Woven lattice sandwich composites with 1‐shaped truss‐like cores have the disadvantage of weak core shear performance. In this paper, double‐layered woven lattice sandwich (DWLS) composite panels with V‐shaped truss‐like cores were designed and manufactured to solve the weak core shear performance of 1‐shaped truss‐like cores. Flatwise compressive and three‐point bending experiments were performed on these DWLS panels. Results indicate that V‐shaped truss‐like cores improve the flatwise compressive strength and stiffness, and the core shear stiffness and strength of panels compared to 1‐shaped truss‐like cores. The V‐shaped core piles fracture at the end, while the 1‐shaped core piles fracture at the middle. The improved core shear stiffness makes the V‐shaped panel exhibit more excellent mechanical performance. In three‐point bending experiments, the obvious inflection feature and its induced large deformation appear in the supported end but are suppressed as the span increases. The theoretical approach was used to calculate core shear stiffness, and the analytical results are in good agreement with the experimental patterns.

Highlights

Woven lattice sandwich composites with V‐shaped truss‐like cores were proposed.

Double‐layered woven lattice sandwich (DWLS) composites with various truss‐like cores were manufactured.

Mechanical properties of DWLS composites with various truss‐like cores were revealed.
Cell‐Free DNA Results Indicating Mosaic Monosomy X of Likely Maternal Origin: Impact on Genetic Counseling Practices and Patient Experiences
Authors: McBride Audrey , Cannon Ashley , Prakash Siddharth , Roberts Aaron W. , Seasely Angela , Hurst Anna C. E. , Hendon Laura
Published: February 2025

Objective

To investigate the current genetic counseling practices involving a cfDNA result indicating mosaic monosomy X of likely maternal origin, and to better understand the perspectives of patients who have received this result.

Method

A total of 60 prenatal genetic counselors completed surveys about their experiences with this result, cfDNA consenting practices, and management practices. In addition, qualitative interviews were conducted with 5 patients to gain insight into their experiences with result disclosure and follow‐up care.

Results

95% of genetic counselors reported feeling prepared to counsel on these results. However, responses to current practices varied. Of the genetic counselors surveyed, 62% state that their approach to management does not differ if the patient is symptomatic. Responses indicated 95% of genetic counselors ordered a karyotype for maternal diagnostic testing, and 30% ordered a chromosomal microarray. Interviews of patients found that 100% were not aware of the possibility of receiving an incidental finding from cfDNA. Patients reported feeling surprised, confused, and worried when they received their results.

Conclusion

The majority of genetic counselors report feeling confident in counseling these results, but their current practices vary. Patients who receive these results are found to have a difficult time adapting due to feeling surprised and confused. Based on these findings, we believe professional practice guidelines are needed to establish clear management recommendations, which in turn would hopefully decrease patient and provider stress.
Investigation of the effects of atmospheric pressure plasma on polypropylene automotive bumper surface and its paintability with and without primer
Authors: Ayas Kadir , Karaca Adem , Çetinkaya İsmail Hakan , Kanbir Öyküm , Çavdar Kadir
Published: February 2025

Among commercial polymer materials, polypropylene (PP) is the most preferred in the world. Low‐density materials such as polymers and polymer composites are increasingly used to produce lighter structures. In the automotive industry, these parts are used for painting. Due to the non‐polar surface chemistry of PP, PP surfaces have low surface energy, which causes weak bonds in coating, painting, and bonding processes. Therefore, various physical and chemical processes are used to increase the surface energy of PP first, and then the surface is prepared with a primer before painting. However, the primer material and surface treatments used have disadvantages such as extra cost, being harmful to the environment, and the use of fossil fuels. Atmospheric pressure plasma (APP) surface treatment has recently become an alternative to traditional methods. In this study, the chemical and physical changes caused by APP surface treatment on PP surfaces were examined, the effects of process parameters were investigated, and the paintability of surfaces with and without primer was investigated.

Highlights

Primerless painting feasibility per standards is under investigation.

Eco‐friendly alternatives to traditional pre‐paint treatments are under study.

Polypropylene surface properties' effects on painting are under study.

Optimal atmospheric pressure plasma parameters for painting are determined.
Mechanical and thermal properties of polylactic acid blended with recycled polymethyl methacrylate
Authors: Dehghani Samaneh , Salehiyan Reza , Pholharn Dutchanee , Srithep Yottha
Published: February 2025

This study investigates the effect of incorporating recycled polymethyl methacrylate (r‐PMMA) into polylactic acid (PLA) and further modifications with a bio‐based compatibilizer (epoxidized soybean oil [ESO]). Various PLA:r‐PMMA ratios were evaluated, with and without ESO. Blending r‐PMMA into PLA significantly influenced mechanical properties. The 10PLA90r‐PMMA blend showed enhanced elongation at break (6.10%) and tensile toughness (1686 kJ/m3) compared to pure PLA (3.34% and 737 kJ/m3, respectively), addressing PLA's inherent brittleness. The 30PLA70r‐PMMA composition exhibited a tensile strength (TS) of 51.44 MPa and significant tensile toughness (1237 kJ/m3). Thermal analysis revealed an increase in the glass transition temperature (Tg) with higher r‐PMMA content, reaching 124°C for 100r‐PMMA, and a decrease in crystallinity percentage from 68.17% (pure PLA) to 30.43% (50PLA50r‐PMMA). Incorporating ESO into a 50 PLA50r‐PMMA blend modified its properties. Adding 3 parts per hundred resins (phr) ESO improved elongation at break (5.68%) and tensile toughness (1302 kJ/m3) while reducing TS (35.03 MPa). At 6 phr ESO, flexibility was maximized with an elongation of 6.37%, but TS decreased to 26.89 MPa. These findings highlight the synergy between r‐PMMA and ESO in enhancing PLA's performance for sustainable applications and balancing mechanical and thermal properties while addressing environmental challenges.

Highlights

r‐PMMA enhances PLA elongation (6.10%) & toughness (1686 kJ/m3) in blends.

Pure PLA has 68.17% crystallinity; r‐PMMA lowers it to 30.43% in 50PLA50r‐PMMA.

High r‐PMMA content erases melting peaks, indicating minimal PLA crystallinity.

ESO boosts crystallization; 6 phr ESO in 50PLA50r‐PMMA increases it to 31.72%.

r‐PMMA in PLA promotes sustainability via waste reuse & eco‐friendly materials.
Feasibility and Acceptability of the Fear‐Less Screening and Stratified‐Care Model for Fear of Cancer Recurrence Among People Affected by Early‐Stage Cancer
Authors: Tran Mei Jun , Jefford Michael , Fua Tsien , Smith Ben , McDowell Lachlan , Dhillon Haryana M. , Lynch Fiona , Shaw Joanne , White Alan , Wiesenfeld David , McNally Orla , Ftanou Maria
Published: February 2025

Objectives

Fear of cancer recurrence (FCR) is a prevalent unmet need for people affected by cancer, in the context of limited healthcare resources. Stratified‐care models have potential to meet this need, while reducing resource demands. This study aimed to evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of screening procedures and interventions within the Fear‐Less stratified‐care model among those impacted by early‐stage cancer.

Methods

People affected by breast, head and neck, or gynaecological cancer, who had completed curative treatment, were screened for FCR. Individuals experiencing moderate FCR (scored 13–21 on the Fear of Cancer Recurrence Inventory‐Short Form; FCRI‐SF) were offered a purpose‐developed clinician‐guided self‐management intervention, while those experiencing severe FCR (FCRI‐SF score ≥ 22) were offered individual therapy (ConquerFear). Re‐screening and evaluation measures were completed post‐intervention.

Results

Seventy‐six (70%) of 109 eligible people completed screening, with 53/76 participating in the Fear‐Less model evaluation. Thirty‐nine of 53 participants reported FCR and were referred to an intervention; 30/39 (77%) accepted the referral. Fifteen (83%) of 18 participants completing the self‐management intervention reported reading ≥ 75% of the resource at 5 weeks, with 10/18 (56%) reporting clinically meaningful (≥ 10%) reductions on the FCRI‐SF post‐intervention. Qualitative feedback indicated screening and the stratified‐care received were acceptable.

Conclusions

Screening procedures and interventions forming the Fear‐Less model appear feasible and acceptable for identifying and treating FCR among people affected by early‐stage cancer. Although further research is required to evaluate its efficacy, this model has the potential to meet a major unmet need, where psychosocial services are limited amid increased demand.

Trial Registration

This study was retrospectively registered on the Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ACTRN12622000818730) on 10/6/2022.
Plant species diversity and abundance of functional groups influence net nitrogen mineralization along productivity gradients in montane Calluna‐dominated heathlands
Authors: Fernández‐Guisuraga José Manuel , Calvo Leonor , Marcos Elena
Published: February 2025

Societal Impact Statement

Heathlands are globally important ecosystems that provide key functions and services but are increasingly threatened by land use changes. We investigated how plant diversity and productivity influence nitrogen cycling under different management regimes. Our findings reveal that extensive grazing modulates the relationship between plant diversity and soil nitrogen dynamics, with contrasting effects in grazed versus abandoned sites. Increased plant species diversity and abundance of annual and perennial herbs in grazed sites were associated with enhanced N mineralization rates. These insights highlight the need for adaptive management strategies to address the challenges posed by land use changes and biodiversity loss in heathland ecosystems.

Abiotic controls on soil N‐transformations in heathlands are well understood; however, the effects of plant species diversity–productivity on N cycling remain unclear, particularly concerning grazing management.

We evaluated the feedbacks among plant species diversity, functional group productivity and soil properties, as well as their relationship with net N mineralization rates, in six heathlands dominated by Calluna vulgaris with differing management history (grazed at low intensity and abandoned).

Our findings revealed a pronounced increase in soil organic matter content with plant diversity in abandoned, species‐poor heathlands compared to the stronger feedback with soil total N in grazed, species‐rich sites, suggesting trade‐offs in the carbon‐to‐nitrogen ratio. Mean net ammonification, nitrification, and mineralization rates showed no significant differences between species‐rich and species‐poor heathlands. However, increased plant species diversity and abundance of productive functional groups in grazed sites were associated with enhanced N mineralization rates. In contrast, high species diversity in abandoned heathlands led to increased woody species productivity with traits related to nutrient conservation, which was linked to slower N mineralization rates.

These findings enhance our understanding of the effects of the diversity‐productivity relationship on nitrogen cycling in heathlands, providing insights for anticipating ecosystem responses to changing management regimes.
Aurantio‐Obtusin Regulates Gut Microbiota and Serum Metabolism to Alleviate High‐Fat Diet‐Induced Obesity‐Associated Non‐Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease in Mice
Authors: Li Zhaoyong , Jin Yao , Zhao Huashan , Gu Yuyan , Zhang Yaxin , Cheng Saibo , Zhang Lifang , He Peikun , Liu Xiaoyu , Jia Yuhua
Published: February 2025

Non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a progressive condition with limited effective treatments. This study investigated the therapeutic effects of Aurantio‐obtusin (AO), a bioactive compound from Cassiae Semen, on obesity‐associated NAFLD. An obesity‐related NAFLD model was established in ApoE−/− mice fed a high‐fat diet (HFD) for 24 weeks, with AO administered during the last 16 weeks. Mouse body weight, adipose tissue weights, liver weights, serum lipid levels, hepatic steatosis, inflammatory damage, and colonic tissue barrier integrity were evaluated. Gut microbial communities and serum metabolic profiles were analyzed using 16S rRNA sequencing and untargeted metabolomics. Hepatic lipid metabolism‐related gene expression was assessed using molecular biology techniques. AO treatment significantly ameliorated HFD‐induced adiposity, hyperlipidemia, and NAFLD symptoms. It preserved intestinal barrier integrity, modulated gut microbial composition by enriching beneficial taxa, and improved serum metabolic profiles. AO favorably adjusted hepatic lipid metabolism by upregulating PPARα and CPT1A while downregulating SREBP1, FASN, and SCD1. Correlation analysis revealed significant associations among gut microbial composition, serum metabolites, and disease indicators. AO's therapeutic benefits in NAFLD might be attributed to its ability to modulate gut microbial community composition and serum metabolic profile, enhance intestinal barrier function, and regulate hepatic lipid metabolism gene expression. AO presents a promising therapeutic agent for obesity‐associated NAFLD, warranting further investigation into its potential clinical applications.
Improved Protective Effects and Pharmacokinetics of Huperzine A Derivative H14 in Soman Poisoning: A Comparative Study With Huperzine A in Rats
Authors: Yang Guixiang , Cui Yalan , Zong Xingxing , Jin Qian , Zhang Yi , Li Liqin , Liu Dongxin , Chen Xuejun , Wang Chen , Wei Jingchen
Published: February 2025

Rationale

N‐[2‐Hydroxy‐3,5‐dimethylbenzilidene]‐Hup A (H14) is a derivative of huperzine A (Hup A) that demonstrates superior protective effects against soman (GD) compared to Hup A. This study aims to evaluate the protective efficacy of H14 pretreatment against GD in rats and to provide an analytical framework for the pharmacokinetic evaluation of H14 in experimental animals.

Methods

The study employed protective ratios (PR) as an evaluation criterion to assess the efficacy of H14 and Hup A in preventing GD in vivo. Liquid–liquid extraction techniques were utilized to extract H14 and its metabolite, Hup A, from plasma. The extracted plasma samples were then analyzed using an ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC–MS/MS) method for the simultaneous quantification of H14 and Hup A.

Results

The PR values for the 6‐ and 12‐h Hup A groups were 1.26 and 1.08, respectively. In contrast, the 6, 12, and 24‐h H14 groups demonstrated PR values of 2.81, 1.98, and 1.18, respectively, indicating extended protective capabilities compared to Hup A. All validation parameters for the UHPLC–MS/MS method, including linearity, specificity, precision, accuracy, matrix effect, and stability, met the acceptance criteria established by FDA guidelines. The pharmacokinetic analysis indicates that H14, after conversion to Hup A in vivo, significantly extends the duration of Hup A concentrations in the body, leading to more effective prevention of GD poisoning compared to Hup A alone.

Conclusions

H14 demonstrates superior efficacy in preventing GD poisoning compared to Hup A. Furthermore, this analytical approach offers a reliable and efficient method for the pharmacokinetic evaluation of H14 in experimental animals.
Automated identification of hedgerows and hedgerow gaps using deep learning
Authors: Wolstenholme J. M. , Cooper F. , Thomas R. E. , Ahmed J. , Parsons K. J. , Parsons D. R.
Published: February 2025

Hedgerows are a key component of the UK landscape that form boundaries, borders and limits of land whilst providing vital landscape‐scale ecological connectivity for a range of organisms. They are diverse habitats in the agricultural landscape providing a range of ecosystem services. Poorly managed hedgerows often present with gaps, reducing their ecological connectivity, resulting in fragmented habitats. However, hedgerow gap frequency and spatial distributions are often unquantified at the landscape‐scale. Here we present a novel methodology based on deep learning (DL) that is coupled with high‐resolution aerial imagery. We demonstrate how this provides a route towards a rapid, adaptable, accurate assessment of hedgerow and gap abundance at such scales, with minimal training data. We present the training and development of a DL model using the U‐Net architecture to automatically identify hedgerows across the East Riding of Yorkshire (ERY) in the UK and demonstrate the ability of the model to estimate hedgerow gap types, lengths and their locations. Our method was both time efficient and accurate, processing an area of 2479 km2 in 32 h with an overall accuracy of 92.4%. The substantive results allow us to estimate that in the ERY alone, there were 3982 ± 302 km of hedgerows and 2865 ± 217 km of hedgerow gaps (with 339 km classified as for access). Our approach and study show that hedgerows and gaps can be extracted from true colour aerial imagery without the requirement of elevation data and can produce meaningful results that lead to the identification of prioritisation areas for hedgerow gap infilling, replanting and restoration. Such replanting could significantly contribute towards national tree planting goals and meeting net zero targets in a changing climate.
Creating Better Brewing Yeast With the 1011 Yeast Genomes Data Sets
Authors: Krogerus Kristoffer , Rettberg Nils
Published: February 2025

Yeast strain development has been essential for improving efficiency, flavour diversity, and quality of beer fermentation. Such efforts often rely on laborious in vitro screening experiments. However, with the increasing availability of large‐scale ‘omics’ data sets, it may be possible to replace or complement such experiments with in silico screening. Compared to more traditional in vitro screening, this has several benefits, including lower costs, more rapid results and possibility to include more strains. Here, we briefly review the genetics associated with various desirable and undesirable traits in brewing yeast, and demonstrate how recent genomics, transcriptomics, and proteomics data sets derived from the 1011 yeast genomes project can be exploited for identifying strains with potentially desirable phenotypes. The discussed phenotypes are related to fermentation performance, formation of desirable flavours, and mitigation of off‐flavours. Finally, we perform wort fermentations with five strains from diverse backgrounds, with diverse predicted phenotypes, to validate the in silico predictions. Most predicted phenotypes correlated well with the measured phenotypes, including formation of desirable compounds like isoamyl acetate and ethyl octanoate, as well as formation of undesirable compounds like 4‐vinyl guaiacol, diacetyl, and ethanethiol. Together, the results indicate that utilising large ‘omics’ data sets can be a very useful tool for both strain selection and development for beer fermentation, and naturally other food and beverage fermentations as well. We hope this can inspire and yield improved and more diverse brewing strains to the industry.
Light scalars within the $$ \mathcal{CP} $$-conserving Aligned-two-Higgs-doublet model
Authors: Coutinho Antonio M. , Karan Anirban , Miralles Víctor , Pich Antonio
Published: February 2025

Abstract

In this article we study the possibility that neutral and charged scalars lighter than the 125 GeV Higgs boson might exist within the framework of the

$$ \mathcal{CP} $$

CP

-conserving Aligned-two-Higgs-doublet model. Depending on which new scalar (scalars) is (are) light, seven different scenarios may be considered. Using the open-source code HEPfit, which relies on Bayesian statistics, we perform global fits for all seven light-mass scenarios. The constraints arising from vacuum stability, perturbativity, electroweak precision observables, flavour observables, Higgs signal strengths, and direct-detection results at the LEP and the LHC are taken into account. Reinterpreted data from slepton searches are considered too. It turns out that the seven scenarios contain sizeable regions of their parameter space compatible with all current data. Although not included in the global fits, the possible implications of (g − 2)
μ
are also addressed.
Numerical determination of the width and shape of the effective string using Stochastic Normalizing Flows
Authors: Caselle Michele , Cellini Elia , Nada Alessandro
Published: February 2025

Abstract

Flow-based architectures have recently proved to be an efficient tool for numerical simulations of Effective String Theories regularized on the lattice that otherwise cannot be efficiently sampled by standard Monte Carlo methods. In this work we use Stochastic Normalizing Flows, a state-of-the-art deep learning architecture based on non-equilibrium Monte Carlo simulations, to study different effective string models. After testing the reliability of this approach through a comparison with exact results for the Nambu-Gotō model, we discuss results on observables that are challenging to study analytically, such as the width of the string and the shape of the flux density. Furthermore, we perform a novel numerical study of Effective String Theories with terms beyond the Nambu-Gotō action, including a broader discussion on their significance for lattice gauge theories. The combination of these findings enables a quantitative description of the fine details of the confinement mechanism in different lattice gauge theories. The results presented in this work establish the reliability and feasibility of flow-based samplers for Effective String Theories and pave the way for future applications on more complex models.
Cosmic superstrings, metastable strings and ultralight primordial black holes: from NANOGrav to LIGO and beyond
Authors: Datta Satyabrata , Samanta Rome
Published: February 2025

Abstract

While topologically stable cosmic strings are disfavoured by the recent observation of nHz stochastic gravitational waves (GW) by Pulsar Timing Arrays (PTA), e.g., NANOGrav, cosmic metastable strings and superstrings are not. However, because the gravitational waves from all classes of strings generally span a wide range of frequencies, they contradict LIGO’s non-observation of stochastic gravitational waves at the f ~ 25 Hz band for a substantial string-parameter space favoured by the PTA data. Suppose ultralight primordial black holes (M
BH < 109 g) existed in the early universe. In this case, they reduce the amplitude of the GWs at higher frequencies by providing an early matter-dominated phase, alleviating the tension between LIGO observation and PTA data. We show that the recent PTA data complemented by future LIGO-Virgo-KAGRA (LVK) runs plus detectors such as LISA and ET would be able to dapple the properties and further search strategies of such ultralight primordial black holes which are otherwise fairly elusive as they evaporate in the early universe by Hawking radiation.
On the Schwinger effect during axion inflation
Authors: von Eckardstein Richard , Schmitz Kai , Sobol Oleksandr
Published: February 2025

Abstract

Pair-creation of charged particles in a strong gauge-field background — the renowned Schwinger effect — can strongly alter the efficiency of gauge-field production during axion inflation. It is therefore crucial to have a clear understanding and proper description of this phenomenon to obtain reliable predictions for the physical observables in this model. In the present work, we revisit the problem of Schwinger pair production during axion inflation in the presence of both electric and magnetic fields and improve on the state of the art in two ways: (i) taking into account that the electric- and magnetic-field three-vectors are in general not collinear, we derive the vector decomposition of the Schwinger-induced current in terms of these fields and determine the corresponding effective electric and magnetic conductivities; (ii) by identifying the physical momentum scale associated with the pair-creation process, we incorporate Schwinger damping of the gauge field in a scale-dependent fashion in the relevant equations of motion. Implementing this new description in the framework of the gradient-expansion formalism, we obtain numerical results in a benchmark scenario of axion inflation and perform a comprehensive comparison with earlier results in the literature. In some cases, the resulting energy densities of the produced gauge fields differ from the old results by more than one order of magnitude, which reflects the importance of taking the new effects into account.
Analytic trajectory bootstrap for matrix models
Authors: Li Wenliang
Published: February 2025

Abstract

We revisit the large N two-matrix model with tr[A, B]2 interaction and quartic potentials by the analytic trajectory bootstrap, where A and B represent the two matrices. In the large N limit, we can focus on the single trace moments associated with the words composed of the letters A and B. Analytic continuations in the lengths of the words and subwords lead to analytic trajectories of single trace moments and intriguing intersections of different trajectories. Inspired by the one-cut solutions of one-matrix models, we propose a simple ansatz for the singularity structure of the two-matrix generating functions and the corresponding single trace moments. Together with the self-consistent constraints from the loop equations, we determine the free parameters in the ansatz and obtain highly accurate solutions for the two-matrix model at a low computational cost. For a given length cutoff L
max, our results are within and more accurate than the positivity bounds from the relaxation method, such as about 6-digit accuracy for L
max = 18. The convergence pattern suggests that we achieve about 8-digit accuracy for L
max = 22. As the singularity structure is closely related to the eigenvalue distributions, we further present the results for various types of eigenvalue densities. In the end, we study the symmetry breaking solutions using more complicated ansatzes.
Impossible evolutions: textillic thinking with machine learning models
Authors: Geck Kate
Published: February 2025

This paper discusses the creative project ‘Impossible Evolutions’, which uses generative machine learning models in the design of woven tapestries. This project is used as a conduit to unfold highly relational ways of thinking about the entanglements of human and machine assemblages within generative artificial intelligence. The project leverages interconnected ecological stories and the language of textiles to provide novel perspectives on the emerging relations between human and machine intelligences. The project uses Generative Adversarial Networks (GANs) and diffusion models to imagine new iterations of endangered Australian butterflies and wildflowers. The generated images are composed into three textile weavings of place: tapestries of the interconnected lives that generate each creature’s ecosystem. By reflecting on the interweaving of conditions that has disrupted each ecological niche, space is opened to think about unseen sensory worlds (Richmond Birdwing butterfly), symbiotic exchange (Bulloak Jewel butterfly), and stewardship of the land (Sunshine Diuris orchid). Each story becomes a fabric both literal and metaphorical, with this ‘textillic thinking’ offering speculative vantage points for approaching artistic and social practice with ML models. Textillic thinking interweaves creativity, collaboration, and care: conditions which are foregrounded in textile-making practices and disrupted in each creature’s ecological story. The creative work is diffracted with the neomaterialism of Rosi Braidotti and Karen Barad, and with the notions of care offered by both Maria Puig de la Bellacasa and the Indigenous Protocol for Artificial Intelligence. Through this reading and practice, the project offers material language for discussing the processes and effects of ML, while emphasizing the responsibility of the human in their design.
Constructability-based multi-objective optimization with machine learning-enhanced meta-heuristics for reinforcing bar design in rectangular concrete columns
Authors: Verduzco Luis F.
Published: February 2025

Optimization of reinforcing bar (rebar) design represents a preponderant factor in reducing material usage and wastes for reinforced concrete (RC) structures. The assessment of constructability of such rebar designs is crucial to improve their practicality and reduce construction costs, which makes the problem multi-objective (MO). However, when applying optimization methods for the design of rebar in RC structures, little attention has been paid on columns, in comparison to beams and slabs. Meta-heuristic algorithms (MA) have been the ones mostly deployed for these types of elements, which have proven to be of high computational cost. Additionally, an existing gap in the literature as to how to relate the design and construction stage of rebar in RC structures through constructability analysis is evident. In this regard, research has been focused mainly at the building level but not at the element level. This works presents a novel algorithmic framework using Machine Learning (ML)-enhanced meta-heuristics for the optimal design of rebar on rectangular RC columns. To assess the constructability of the resulting rebar layouts a Buildability Score (BS) model at the element level is proposed. The complexity analysis of rebar design under the constructability restrictions, through combinatorial optimization (CO), is used to assess the global time efficiency of the framework. The Non-Sorting Genetic Algorithm II (NSGA-II) was deployed for showcase and five different ML algorithms were used to enhance it, namely the k-NN classifier, SVM regression, ANN, Gauss Process (GP) regression, and Tree Ensembles (TE), where the latter three showed the best performance.
Topology optimization for pressurized nonlinear structures using substructure and experimental studies
Authors: Lu Yifu , Luo Quantian , Tong Liyong
Published: February 2025

A compliant structure under fluidic pressure can undergo relatively large shape change, but the design of such type of structure is challenging as the pressure distribution depends on detailed structural geometry. In this study, a novel mixed substructure-density (MSD) model is proposed for topology representation and update in the optimal design of nonlinear compliant structures under quasi-static fluidic pressure. An optimization algorithm is developed via implementing the present model by using super-elements in commercial finite element analysis (FEA) software. Numerical examples are presented to validate the present model, algorithm, and designs numerically via full linear and nonlinear FEAs. A planar cellular network with five cells arranged in parallel is then designed for representing a pressurized wing rib structure capable of modulating airfoil thickness variation. The test results of the single-cell and five-cell PCS specimens prototyped using polyurethane material show that the respective cell thickness can be reduced by 11.9 and 6.4% respectively under a cell pressure of 250 kPa.
Holomorphic motions, natural families of entire maps, and multiplier-like objects for wandering domains
Authors: Ferreira Gustavo R. , van Strien Sebastian
Published: February 2025

Structural stability of holomorphic functions has been the subject of much research in the last fifty years. Due to various technicalities, however, most of that work has focused on so-called finite-type functions (functions whose set of singular values has finite cardinality). Recent developments in the field go beyond this setting. In this paper we extend Eremenko and Lyubich’s result on natural families of entire maps to the case where the set of singular values is not the entire complex plane, showing under this assumption that the set

$$M_f$$

M
f

of entire functions quasiconformally equivalent to f admits the structure of a complex manifold (of possibly infinite dimension). Moreover, we will consider functions with wandering domains—another hot topic of research in complex dynamics. Given an entire function f with a simply connected wandering domain U, we construct an analogue of the multiplier of a periodic orbit, called a distortion sequence, and show that, under some hypotheses, the distortion sequence moves analytically as f moves within appropriate parameter families.
Investigation of the inhibitory effects of the telomere-targeted compounds on glutathione S-transferase P1
Authors: Ozcan Mehmet , Burus Ayse , Mender Ilgen , Dikmen Z. Gunnur , Gryaznov Sergei M. , Bastug Turgut , Bayazit Yasemin
Published: February 2025

Glutathione S-transferase P1 (GSTP1) plays a significant role in cancer progression and chemotherapy resistance, with its overexpression diminishing chemotherapeutic efficacy across various tumor types. This study evaluates the inhibitory effects of 6-thio-2′-deoxyguanosine (6-thio-dG) and its dimeric form (6-thio-2′-dG-Dimer) on GSTP1. Enzyme inhibition assays with recombinant human GSTP1, kinetic analysis, molecular docking, and molecular dynamic simulations were employed. Enzymatic assays were performed in 0.1 M phosphate buffer (pH 6.5) at 30 °C, containing 1 mM EDTA, 1 mM GSH, and 1 mM CDNB. The compounds 6-thio-dG and its dimer were dissolved in 2.5% DMSO for the experiments. The IC₅₀ values indicated that the dimer exhibited a higher potency (IC₅₀: 0.339 μM) than the monomer (IC₅₀: 15.14 μM). Kinetic analysis revealed noncompetitive inhibition with glutathione (Ki: 12.26 μM) and mixed inhibition with CDNB (Ki: 11.41 μM) for the monomer, whereas the dimer showed mixed inhibition with glutathione (Ki: 0.972 μM) and competitive inhibition with CDNB (Ki: 0.723 μM). Molecular docking confirmed the higher binding affinity of the dimer (binding energy: − 7.9 kcal/mol, Ki: 1.595 μM) compared to the monomer (binding energy: − 6.2 kcal/mol, Ki: 28.21 μM). The dimer form of 6-thio-dG shows strong potential to enhance chemotherapeutic efficacy by effectively inhibiting GSTP1 and overcoming drug resistance. Its superior inhibitory properties make it a valuable candidate for targeted cancer therapies.

Graphical abstract