bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparative Study of Thermochemical Valorization of CCN51 Cocoa Shells: Combustion, Pyrolysis, and Gasification
Authors: Laverde-Albarracín Cristian , González Juan Félix , Ledesma Beatriz , Román-Suero Silvia
Published: February 2025

Cocoa shells (variety CCN51, exclusive from Ecuador) were subjected to different thermochemical processes (combustion, pyrolysis, and gasification) to evaluate their potential for energy production. Pyrolysis was conducted at 500, 600, and 700 °C, yielding solid (35.89–41.27%), liquid (31.13–34.73%), and gas (24.92–32.92%) fractions. The higher heating value (HHV) of the solid phase increased with temperature, reaching 24.97 MJ/kg at 700 °C. Gasification was performed under air flow at 500, 600, and 700 °C, producing synthesis gas with an HHV ranging from 0.89 to 3.36 MJ/m3. The H2 and CO contents in the gas phase increased with temperature, reaching 9.98% and 11.77% at 700 °C, respectively. Combustion analysis, conducted via thermogravimetry coupled with mass spectrometry, revealed efficient volatile release and oxidation patterns. The high potassium content in the ashes (72.02% K2O) may affect slagging behavior but also presents opportunities for agricultural applications. These findings highlight the potential of CCN51 cocoa shells as a sustainable biomass resource, contributing to Ecuador’s green transition and the local circular economy.
EHC-GCN: Efficient Hierarchical Co-Occurrence Graph Convolution Network for Skeleton-Based Action Recognition
Authors: Bai Ying , Yang Dongsheng , Xu Jing , Xu Lei , Wang Hongliang
Published: February 2025

In tasks such as intelligent surveillance and human–computer interaction, developing rapid and effective models for human action recognition is crucial. Currently, Graph Convolution Networks (GCNs) are widely used for skeleton-based action recognition. Still, they primarily face two issues: (1) The insufficient capture of global joint responses, making it difficult to utilize the correlations between all joints. (2) Existing models often tend to be over-parameterized. In this paper, we therefore propose an Efficient Hierarchical Co-occurrence Graph Convolution Network (EHC-GCN). By employing a simple and practical hierarchical co-occurrence framework to adjust the degree of feature aggregation on demand, we first use spatial graph convolution to learn the local features of joints and then aggregate the global features of all joints. Secondly, we introduce depth-wise separable convolution layers to reduce the model parameters. Additionally, we apply a two-stream branch and attention mechanism to further extract discriminative features. On two large-scale datasets, the proposed EHC-GCN achieves better or comparable performance on both 2D and 3D skeleton data to the state-of-the-art methods, with fewer parameters and lower computational complexity, which will be more beneficial for application on computing resource-limited robot platforms.
A Study on Analyzing Travel Characteristics of Micro Electric Vehicles by Using GPS Data
Authors: Kim Sunhoon , Hwang Sooncheon , Lee Dongmin
Published: February 2025

A micro electric vehicle (micro-EV) is a small electric car with one or two seats designed for short-to-medium-distance trips. Micro-EVs produce relatively less pollution during operation and, due to their compact size, offer greater mobility in narrow areas compared to conventional transportation. These advantages have led to a continuous increase in the number of micro-EVs. However, their small battery capacity results in a limited driving range per charge, and restrictions on power and speed lead to lower driving performance. Due to these drawbacks, micro-EVs still hold a small share of the overall vehicle market. Therefore, it is necessary to evaluate the strengths of micro-EVs and analyze how they should be utilized to promote their widespread adoption. Therefore, this study analyzed the strengths of micro-EVs and identified the types of services where they can be effectively utilized to promote the use of micro-EVs as a smart mobility option. This study focused on micro-EVs used as a shared transport service, delivery service, and in public service, as part of an R&D project on micro-EVs conducted by the Ministry of Trade, Industry, and Energy. A total of 106 micro-EVs were deployed for each service type: 57 for shared transport, 13 for delivery, and 36 for public service. Each micro-EV was equipped with a GPS device, and the analysis was conducted using GPS data collected from January 2021 to October 2021. Micro-EVs with missing data due to GPS device malfunctions were excluded from the analysis. As a result, two micro-EVs from the shared transport service and one from the public service were excluded. The study compared the travel characteristics of micro-EVs across the three different service types. Additionally, a comparative analysis of the driving characteristics of micro-EVs and conventional vehicles was conducted to assess the advantages of micro-EVs over traditional vehicles. The results of the analyses showed that micro-EVs were more utilized for the delivery service type than other service types in terms of daily usage time and travel distance (3.5 h/day and 38.5 km/day, respectively), trip amounts (24.1 trips/day), and number of trips per trip chain (9.4 trips/trip chain). Moreover, micro-EVs have their strengths compared to other modes of transportation when traveling narrow roads. Analysis of the roads around the areas where micro-EVs were located showed that the micro-EVs were exposed to narrow roads with a width of under 5 m (among the total road link extensions, 57% consisted of road links with a width of less than 5 m), especially the micro-EVs used for delivery service. It is expected that the findings of this study will serve as a foundational resource for developing strategies to promote the adoption of micro electric vehicles.
Vehicle–Grid Interaction Pricing Optimization Considering Travel Probability and Battery Degradation to Minimize Community Peak–Valley Load
Authors: Wang Kun , Li Yalun , Xu Chaojie , Guo Peng , Wu Zhenlin , Du Jiuyu
Published: February 2025

Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) technology has been widely applied in recent years. Under the time-of-use pricing, users independently decide the charging and discharging behavior to maximize economic benefits, charging during low-price periods, discharging during high-electricity periods, and avoiding battery degradation. However, such behavior under inappropriate electricity prices can deviate from the grid’s goal of minimizing peak–valley load difference. Based on the basic electricity data of a community in Beijing and electricity vehicle (EV) random travel behavior obtained through Monte Carlo simulation, this study establishes a user optimal decision model that is influenced by battery degradation and electricity costs considering depth of discharge, charging rate, and charging energy loss. A mixed-integer linear programming algorithm with the objective of minimizing the cost of EV users is constructed to offer the participation power of V2G. By analyzing grid load fluctuations under different electricity pricing strategies, the study derives the formulation and adjustment rules for optimal electricity pricing that achieve ideal load stabilization. Under 30% V2G participation, the relative fluctuation of grid load is reduced from 31.81% to 5.19%. This study addresses the challenge of obtaining optimal electricity prices to guide users to participate in V2G to minimize the peak–valley load fluctuation.
Utilizing Integrated Bioinformatics Analysis to Explore Potential Alterations in Mitochondrial Function Within Immune Cells Associated with Thoracic Aortic Aneurysms
Authors: Guan Chang , Chen Si-Xu , Huang Chun-Ling , Du Yi-Peng , Wang Kai-Hao , Li Pei-Xin , Liu Shen-Rong , Liu Zhao-Yu , Huang Zheng
Published: February 2025

Thoracic aortic aneurysm (TAA) is a life-threatening peripheral vascular disease with a complex pathogenesis. Altered mitochondrial function in vascular smooth muscle cells has been implicated in TAA development. However, the link between mitochondrial functional status and immune cell behavior in TAA patients remains largely unexplored. In this study, we analyzed several bulk RNA-seq and snRNA-seq datasets of TAA from the NCBI-GEO and Genome Sequence Archive database, identifying differentially expressed mitochondrial-related genes (DE-MRGs). To assess mitochondrial function, we calculated a mitoscore to represent the overall expression level of MRGs. Our analysis revealed mitochondrial-mediated apoptosis occurring in M1 macrophages, while CD4 + T cells demonstrated the activation of quality control mechanisms, such as mitochondrial fission. Through LASSO regression and SVM-RFE, we identified key MRGs, including MUCB, ARRB2, FRG, and ALPL, which we further validated using TAA mouse models. Additionally, we found that DE-MRGs were closely linked to methionine metabolism. In conclusion, this study highlights mitochondrial dysfunction in immune cells associated with TAA, shedding light on potential mitochondrial roles in TAA pathogenesis.
Immune-Mediated Bidirectional Causality Between Inflammatory Bowel Disease and Chronic Periodontitis: Evidence from Mendelian Randomization and Integrative Bioinformatics Analysis
Authors: Feng Zhijun , Chen Zihan , Wang Xiaoxu , Zhou Meijuan , Liu Shupeng
Published: February 2025

Background/Objectives: A bidirectional association between inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and periodontitis has been observed, yet their causal relationship remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate the potential causal links between these two inflammatory conditions through comprehensive genetic and molecular analyses. Methods: We conducted a bidirectional Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis integrated with bioinformatics approaches. The causal relationships were primarily evaluated using inverse variance weighting (IVW), complemented by multiple sensitivity analyses to assess the robustness of the findings. Additionally, we performed differential gene expression analysis using RNA sequencing data to identify co-expressed genes and shared inflammatory mediators between IBD and periodontitis, followed by pathway enrichment analysis. Results: Bidirectional MR analysis revealed significant causal associations between IBD and periodontitis (p-value < 0.05). Sensitivity analyses demonstrated the consistency of these findings, with no evidence of significant heterogeneity or horizontal pleiotropy (p-value > 0.05). Integrated bioinformatics analysis identified key immune regulators, particularly interleukin 1 beta (IL1B) and C-X-C motif chemokine receptor 4 (CXCR4), and inflammatory signaling pathways, including tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α) and interleukin 17 (IL17), as potential molecular mechanisms underlying the bidirectional relationship between these conditions. Conclusions: Our findings provide genetic evidence supporting a bidirectional causal relationship between IBD and periodontitis. Transcriptomic analysis revealed shared pathological mechanisms and identified crucial immune regulatory factors common to both diseases. These insights enhance our understanding of the molecular interplay between IBD and periodontitis, potentially informing new therapeutic strategies for both conditions.
Prognostic Value of Hemoglobin, Albumin, Lymphocyte, Platelet (HALP) Score in Patients with Metastatic Renal Cell Carcinoma Treated with Nivolumab
Authors: Tomčová Zuzana , Obertová Jana , Chovanec Michal , Syčová-Milá Zuzana , Štefániková Katarína , Šlachtová Eva , Žák Monika , Savka Alexander , Hrnčár Matej , Rejleková Katarína , Palacka Patrik
Published: February 2025

Background: Immunotherapy based on checkpoint inhibition is widely used in the treatment of metastatic renal cell carcinoma (RCC); however, predictive and prognostic biomarkers are yet to be explored. The objective of this study was to evaluate the prognostic value of the hemoglobin, albumin, lymphocyte, platelet (HALP) score in metastatic RCC patients receiving nivolumab. Methods: We enrolled 149 individuals (including 38 females) with a median age of 62 years, who were treated with nivolumab (at a dosage of 240 mg biweekly or 480 mg every 28 days) following progression on at least one tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) between 2016 and 2024. The study population was dichotomized by the median HALP score (27.53), which was calculated as hemoglobin (g/L) × albumin (g/L) × absolute lymphocyte count/platelets (g/L) at immunotherapy initiation. Progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) were estimated using the Kaplan–Meier method, with differences analyzed via a log-rank test. A multivariate Cox proportional hazards model was utilized for evaluation of the prognostic value of performance status, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) levels, and HALP score. Results: At a median follow-up of 31.1 months, 122 patients had progressed on nivolumab and 87 had died. Poor performance status was associated with significantly worse PFS and OS (HR 0.20 and 0.14, respectively). Survival was worse in individuals with an LDH level higher than 1.5 times the normal range compared to those with lower LDH values (HR 0.45 for PFS and HR 0.41 for OS). Patients with low HALP scores had shorter PFS (HR 0.69) and OS (HR 0.58) versus patients with high HALP scores. In the multivariate analysis, the independent prognostic value of the HALP index for OS was revealed in a metastatic clear-cell RCC (ccRCC) population. Conclusions: The HALP score determined before nivolumab initiation as the second or third line of treatment is an independent prognostic factor of OS in metastatic ccRCC patients. Prospective validation could lead to the incorporation of this index into prognostic models for patients with RCC.
Real-World Efficacy and Safety of Apixaban vs. Warfarin in Obese Atrial Fibrillation Patients: Propensity Matching Analysis
Authors: Algethami Abdulaziz , Ahmed Amjad M. A. , Ardah Husam , Alsalamah Seham , Alhabs Ghadah , Al Fraihi Ghadah , Alanazi Shahad , Alharbi Hend , Aljizeeri Ahmed
Published: February 2025

Background/Objectives: The use of direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) in obese patients is scarcely studied despite having many advantages over warfarin. Consequently, this study aims to assess the real-world safety and effectiveness of apixaban compared to warfarin in treating atrial fibrillation (AF) in obese patients. Methods: A retrospective cohort study examined consecutive AF patients with a BMI of ≥ 30 kg/m2 treated with apixaban or warfarin. Patients were started on these medications between January 2015 and December 2021. Efficacy outcomes included ischemic stroke and venous thromboembolism (VTE) occurrences, while safety outcomes encompassed bleeding incidents and mortality rates. Outcomes were assessed following propensity score matching. Results: We identified 876 patients treated with either apixaban (414) or warfarin (462). Their mean age was 76.9, with a mean CHA2DS2VASc score of 4.9 ± 1.97. After matching and compared to warfarin, apixaban was correlated with a lower incidence of all-cause mortality (19.7% vs. 33.7%, p < 0.001). The incidences of stroke, venous thromboembolism (VTE), and bleeding events were (4.7% vs. 4.7%, p = 1.000), (1.0% vs. 2.6%, p = 0.107), and (3.9% vs. 6.2%, p = 0.139), respectively. Using Cox-regression model, apixaban was associated with lower mortality risk (HR = 0.728, 95% CI: 0.55–0.97; p = 0.030) which remained significant after adjusting for the conventional cardiovascular risk factors and BMI values. Conclusions: Apixaban is associated with a trend of reduced incidence of thromboembolism among obese patients with atrial fibrillation and significantly lowers all-cause mortality. Despite earlier concerns, the use of apixaban is an effective and safe alternative to warfarin among obese patients with AF.
Humic Acid Derived from Vermicompost Improves Bone Mineral Content and Alters Oxidative Stress Markers in Ovariectomized Mice
Authors: Santos Thays Cristina dos , Silva Hellen Paulo , Lima Karen Rodrigues , Salvador Maria Luiza Nonato , Cândido Geraldo de Sousa , Pimenta Laura Cristina Jardim Pôrto , Bertolini Natália Oliveira , Ribeiro Luciana Botelho , Fagundes Filipe Gomes , Orlando Débora Ribeiro , Borges Bruno Del Bianco , Dias-Peixoto Marco Fabrício , Machado Alan Rodrigues Teixeira , Dobbss Leonardo Barros , Pereira Luciano José , Andrade Eric Francelino
Published: February 2025

Background: Estrogen depletion alters bone mineralization and oxidative stress. Antioxidants like humic acids (HA) may help mitigate bone demineralization and redox imbalances. Thus, this study evaluated the effects of HA on bone mineral composition and oxidative stress markers in an experimental menopause model. Methods: Twenty-four female C57BL/6 mice were divided into four groups (n = 6/group): Sham; Sham + HA; Ovariectomized (OVX); and OVX + HA. The menopause model was induced by bilateral ovariectomy at the beginning of the experiment. HA derived from biomass vermicompost was administered daily by gavage for 28 days. After euthanasia, femurs and fragments of the gastrocnemius muscle, liver, and kidney were collected. Bone elemental composition was analyzed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) coupled with energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS). Superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) activities were assessed in muscle, renal, and hepatic tissues. Data were analyzed using two-way ANOVA and Bonferroni’s post hoc test. Results: Untreated OVX mice exhibited a significant reduction in femoral calcium content (p < 0.05). However, HA treatment increased calcium levels and improved the Ca/P ratio (p < 0.05). H2O2 activity was reduced in the liver and kidney of OVX + HA mice compared to untreated animals (p < 0.05). CAT activity in muscle increased in the OVX + HA group compared to the OVX (p < 0.05). Conclusions: HA treatment improved femoral elemental composition and modulated oxidative stress markers in an experimental menopause model.
Apokedro: A Decentralization Index for Daos and Beyond
Authors: Papangelou Stamatis , Christodoulou Klitos , Inglezakis Antonios
Published: February 2025

Decentralization is a core principle of blockchain technology and Decentralized Autonomous Organizations (DAOs), enhancing security and resilience by distributing control across a network. Traditional metrics like the Gini coefficient and Nakamoto coefficient often fall short in capturing the complex dynamics of decentralization. This paper introduces the Apokedro decentralization index, a metric that evaluates decentralization by considering the probabilities of all possible subsets of nodes that could collectively centralize control. These concepts from game theory, such as the Nash equilibrium, and the Apokedro index, when incorporated, provide a nuanced assessment of centralization risks. Key contributions include the mathematical formulation of the index, an efficient computational algorithm utilizing pruning techniques, and benchmarking experiments that compare the index performance against traditional metrics across various statistical distributions. The Apokedro index offers a comprehensive tool for measuring decentralization in blockchain networks and DAOs.
Infrastructure-Oriented Efficient Materials Implemented with Fibers
Authors: Shi Jianzhe , Cao Xuyang , Wang Haitao
Published: February 2025

Fiber-reinforced polymers (FRPs) and fiber-reinforced cementitious composites (FRCCs) have been widely applied in infrastructure projects. In this Editorial, the research status of FRPs is first reviewed in terms of fibers, resin matrix, and application technology, and the research progress of FRCCs is then reviewed in terms of mechanical property and durability, as well as application technology. Based on the frontiers and challenges of FRPs and FRCCs, the prospects for future studies are discussed.
Dynamic Adaptability of Spherical Bearings in Small-Span Bridges for Heavy-Haul Railways
Authors: Chen Shuli , Zhou Ye , Xie Kaize , Zhang Panhui , Li Chen
Published: February 2025

Plate bearings in existing small-span bridges for heavy-haul railways have exhibited corrosion, detachment, and surface cracks under large axle loads, making them inadequate for the “capacity expansion and renovation” of heavy-haul railways. Therefore, identifying new bearings suitable for small-span bridges and developing a rapid bearing replacement method tailored to the operational needs of heavy-haul railways are urgent priorities. This paper takes spherical bearings as an example and proposes a method for rapidly replacing plate bearings with spherical bearings. The bearing replacement tests of six simply supported beams were carried out to verify the effectiveness of the proposed method. Dynamic performance tests of bridges and bearings were performed before and after the replacement. A finite element model was established to analyze the effects of bridge span and pier height. The results show that the entire bearing replacement process for a span bridge could be completed within 4 h using the proposed method. Compared to plate bearings, spherical bearings could improve the lateral dynamic performance of both the bridge and bearings. However, the improvement decreases as bridge span and pier height increase. For 2.2 m diameter cylindrical piers commonly used in heavy-haul railways, the pier height with spherical bearings should be limited to 10 m.
Is Business Planning Useful for Entrepreneurs? A Review and Recommendations
Authors: Nakajima Hiroko , Sekiguchi Tomoki
Published: February 2025

Whether or not business planning is useful for entrepreneurs is a critical question both academically and practically. While some studies suggest that structured business planning enhances business performance, others argue that it may be unnecessary or even counterproductive in uncertain environments. This lack of consensus creates a gap between academic research and practical application, leaving entrepreneurs without clear guidance on when and how to engage in business planning and what impact it may have. To address this issue, we conducted an integrative literature review on the effectiveness of business planning in entrepreneurship. The results of our review suggest that business planning is generally effective, and we categorize its effects into three aspects: (1) economic effects, such as start-ups’ improved sustainability and profitability; (2) external and symbolic effects for stakeholders, including enhanced decision-making for external funding, trust building, vision legitimization, and stakeholder engagement; and (3) internal and psychological effects, such as improved decision-making, cognitive enhancement, and flexibility for entrepreneurs. This article also highlights the gaps in the literature, particularly regarding the relationship between business planning and factors such as time, environmental conditions, feedback loops, entrepreneurial passion, and psychological ownership. To fully leverage the benefits of business planning, we propose six evidence-based recommendations to guide entrepreneurs in effectively utilizing this critical tool.
The Safety and Efficacy of Vascular-Targeted Photodynamic Therapy in Low-Risk Prostate Cancer
Authors: Saldutto Pietro , Cavacece Fernando , Rocca Roberto La , Di Mauro Ernesto , Verratti Vittore , Sangiorgi Giuseppe Massimo , Vena Walter , Patelli Gianluigi , Iacono Fabrizio , Di Bello Francesco , Napolitano Luigi , Altieri Vincenzo Maria
Published: February 2025

Background: Prostate cancer (PCa) is one of the most prevalent cancers in the world. Standard methods of screening and diagnosis for prostate cancer have been effective but can result in overtreatment of indolent prostate cancer, leading to increased morbidity. Multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and fusion biopsy are effective tools to achieve better diagnostic accuracy. A combination of multiparametric MRI and photodynamic therapy can be used as an alternative to active surveillance in low-risk prostate cancer to better detect disease progression while avoiding overtreatment. Methods: We conducted a retrospective multicenter study on 13 patients with low-risk prostate cancer who underwent vascular-targeted photodynamic therapy. The patients were evaluated for up to 15 months after the procedure using biochemical parameters like serum Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA), digital rectal examination, multiparametric MRI, and functional parameters like the International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), the 15-question International Index of Erectile Function questionnaire (IIEF-5), quality of life score (QoL), the International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire-Short Form (ICIQ-SF), and a uroflowmetry examination. Results: The patients did not experience any significant complications during or after the treatment. A decrease in serum PSA and prostate volume was observed from 7.38 ng/mL to 3.8 ng/ml with functional improvement evidenced by a decrease in the IPSS (from 15.4 to 11), QoL (from 3.15 to 2), and the IIEF-5 (from 17.23 to 16) score, and an improvement in uroflowmetry. Conclusion: Vascular-targeted photodynamic therapy is a safe and effective alternative to active surveillance in patients with low-risk prostate cancer.
Radiological and Immunohistochemical Characteristics of PitNETs in 79 Patients Undergoing Neurosurgery
Authors: Krzentowska Anna , Czepko Ryszard , Adamek Dariusz , Filipowicz Michał , Broniatowska Elżbieta , Gołkowski Filip
Published: February 2025

The human pituitary is a gland located within a small bony box, the sella turcica, under the base of the brain [...]
Enhanced Photocatalytic CO2 Reduction via CCH/g-C3N4 Heterojunction: Optimizing Charge Carrier Dynamics and Visible-Light Utilization
Authors: Mo Xinpeng , Zhong Hong , Hu Chenhuan , Jin Haoxiong , Liu Xianfeng , Liu Huanhuan , Zhang Genqiang
Published: February 2025

The photocatalytic CO2 reduction (PCR) into value-added fuels offers a promising solution to energy shortages and the greenhouse effect, thanks to the mild conditions and environmental sustainability. However, the activation of CO2 is challenging because of the thermodynamic stability and chemical inertness of CO2 molecules, which significantly restricts the efficiency of PCR. Cobalt carbonate hexahydrate (CCH), known for its excellent CO2 adsorption and activation properties, faces challenges like poor electron–hole separation and photoresponse. To address these issues, graphitic carbon nitride (CN) as a “pseudo-sensitizer” was introduced into the system by an in situ heterojunction synthesis strategy to produce CCH/CN photocatalyst, where Co–N bonds formed between CCH and CN enhance charge carrier migration and lower interfacial resistance. The CCH/CN catalyst achieved a CO production rate of 19.65 μmol g−1 h−1, outperforming CCH, CN, and a mechanically mixed sample (Mix) by 7.74, 2.31, and 1.77 times, respectively. This work demonstrates an effective strategy for designing heterojunction catalysts to improve visible light utilization and charge transfer for efficient CO2 reduction.
Synthesis of Novel s-Indacene-1,5-dione and Isoxazole Derivatives via NaNO2-Catalyzed/Involved Transformation of Cyclopentenone-MBH Acetates
Authors: Li Na , Mo Xiao-Tian , Li Min , Ma Yi-Na , Jiang Lin
Published: February 2025

A rapid synthesis of structurally novel s-indacene-1,5-dione and cyclopentanone-fused isoxazole derivatives in generally moderate yields was achieved through the NaNO2-catalyzed/involved transformation of cyclopentenone-MBH acetates. Under similar reaction conditions, two different reaction pathways were observed depending on the type of aryl substituent on MBH acetates. In the formation of s-indacene-1,5-diones, NaNO2 is proposed to act as a nucleophilic catalyst to initiate the stepwise dimeric cyclization/oxidative aromatization, whereas in the formation of isoxazole derivatives, it plays the role of nucleophilic reagent of (3+2) cycloaddition. Using NaNO2 as an inexpensive and readily available catalyst or reaction component, mild reaction conditions, operational simplicity, and metal-free transition are the main advantages of this work.
Adiponectin Influences the Behavior of Stem Cells in Hormone-Resistant Breast Cancer
Authors: Naimo Giuseppina Daniela , Forestiero Martina , Giordano Francesca , Leonetti Adele Elisabetta , Gelsomino Luca , Panno Maria Luisa , Andò Sebastiano , Mauro Loredana
Published: February 2025

In the breast tumor microenvironment (TME), adipocytes exert a selective pressure on the behavior of breast cancer stem cells (BCSCs), which are involved in endocrine therapy resistance. In obesity, adipocytes secrete reduced levels of adiponectin, which promotes the growth and progression of ERα-positive breast cancer (BC). Here, we examined how low adiponectin levels affect the enrichment of the BCSC subpopulation and the mechanisms contributing to the maintenance of endocrine therapy resistance in BC. Flow cytometry, qRT-PCR, and Western blotting analysis were performed to assess stemness, the cell cycle, and apoptosis markers in MCF-7 wild-type (WT) and tamoxifen-resistant (TR) mammospheres. nLC-MS/MS was employed to profile and compare the proteome of BCSCs. Differentially expressed proteins were intersected with data from the MetacoreTM dataset. Our study demonstrated that adiponectin increased the percentage of CD44+/CD24−/ALDH1+ stem-like cells in TR MCF-7 mammospheres. Specifically, adiponectin contributed to the maintenance of BCSC bulk in TR MCF-7 cells through a slow cycling rate, supported by decreased levels of Cyclin D1 and Ki67 and increased p21 and p27 expression, and through escape from apoptosis, sustained by reduced ROS production and preserved maintenance of mitochondrial membrane potential. Our results provide new insights into the contribution of adiponectin to poor ERα-positive BC outcomes. Deeply understanding adiponectin’s role in stemness may disclose novel therapeutic approaches to treat hormone-resistant obese BC patients.
Mirvetuximab Soravtansine Induces Potent Cytotoxicity and Bystander Effect in Cisplatin-Resistant Germ Cell Tumor Cells
Authors: Kucerova Lucia , Fekiacova Adriana , Udvorkova Natalia , Malcharkova Pavlina , Blahova Viktoria , Jochova Silvia , Kalavska Katarina , Cierna Zuzana , Mego Michal
Published: February 2025

Patients with treatment-refractory/relapsing germ cell tumors (GCTs) have a dismal prognosis due to a lack of any effective therapy. Moreover, the efficacy of newly approved targeted therapies remains unexplored for cisplatin-resistant GCTs. Previously, it was demonstrated that folate receptor α (FRα) is overexpressed in many tumor types and efficiently targeted by the antibody–drug conjugate (ADC) mirvetuximab soravtansine (MIRV) in cisplatin-resistant cancers. We hypothesized that FRα represents an attractive target for treating treatment-refractory GCTs. We determined the expression of the FOLR1 gene in a broad range of GCT cell lines and tumor xenografts. We tested the antitumor efficacy of MIRV on cisplatin-resistant GCT cells in vitro and explored the ability of MIRV treatment to induce a bystander effect in the direct coculture of FRα-high and FRα-low cells. We found that the FOLR1 gene has significantly higher expression in testicular GCTs (TGCTs) than in normal testicular tissue. FOLR1 is highly expressed in the TCam2, JEG3, JAR, and NOY1 cell lines and their respective cisplatin-resistant variants. MIRV treatment induced apoptosis and a potent antiproliferative effect in cisplatin-resistant GCT cells in adherent and 3D spheroid cultures in vitro. A significant decrease in FRα-low 2102EP_R_NL cells was observed in the presence of FRα-high NOY1_R_SK in the presence of 12.5 nM MIRV, showing a potent bystander effect in the direct coculture. Immunohistochemical analysis confirmed significantly higher Folr1 protein expression in patients with TGCTs postchemotherapy than in chemo-naïve patients, as well as in patients with an unfavorable prognosis. In this study, we present data suggesting that the FOLR1 gene is highly expressed in (T)GCT cells in vitro and in vivo, and anti-FRα-targeting therapies should be investigated as a treatment modality in a subset of patients with TGCTs. Moreover, MIRV induced significant antitumor and bystander effects, thus showing its potential in further preclinical exploration and drug repurposing for a salvage treatment regime in refractory (T)GCT disease.
Significance of Measurable Residual Disease in Patients Undergoing Allogeneic Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation for Acute Myeloid Leukemia
Authors: Gang Margery , Othus Megan , Walter Roland B.
Published: February 2025

Allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) remains an important curative-intent treatment for many patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML), but AML recurrence after allografting is common. Many factors associated with relapse after allogeneic HCT have been identified over the years. Central among these is measurable (“minimal”) residual disease (MRD) as detected by multiparameter flow cytometry, quantitative polymerase chain reaction, and/or next-generation sequencing. Demonstration of a strong, independent prognostic role of pre- and early post-HCT MRD has raised hopes MRD could also serve as a predictive biomarker to inform treatment decision-making, with emerging data indicating the potential value to guide candidacy assessment for allografting as a post-remission treatment strategy, the selection of conditioning intensity, use of small molecule inhibitors as post-HCT maintenance therapy, and preemptive infusion of donor lymphocytes. Monitoring for leukemia recurrence after HCT and surrogacy for treatment response are other considerations for the clinical use of MRD data. In this review, we will outline the current landscape of MRD as a biomarker for patients with AML undergoing HCT and discuss areas of uncertainty and ongoing research.
Shaping Rare Granulomatous Diseases in the Lab: How New Models Are Changing the Game
Authors: Ceccato Jessica , Gualtiero Giulia , Piazza Maria , Carraro Samuela , Buso Helena , Felice Carla , Rattazzi Marcello , Scarpa Riccardo , Vianello Fabrizio , Cinetto Francesco
Published: February 2025

In vitro models serve as valuable tools for understanding the complex cellular and molecular interactions involved in granuloma formation, providing a controlled environment to explore the underlying mechanisms of their development and function. Various models have been developed to replicate granulomatous diseases, even though they may lack the sophistication needed to fully capture the variability present in clinical spectra and environmental influences. Traditional cultures of PBMCs have been widely used to generate granuloma models, enabling the study of aggregation responses to various stimuli. However, growing cells on a two-dimensional (2D) plastic surface as a monolayer can lead to altered cellular responses and the modulation of signaling pathways, which may not accurately represent in vivo conditions. In response to these limitations, the past decade has seen significant advancements in the development of three-dimensional (3D) in vitro models, which more effectively mimic in vivo conditions and provide better insights into cell–cell and cell–microenvironment interactions. Meanwhile, the use of in vivo animal models in biomedical research must adhere to the principle of the three Rs (replacement, reduction, and refinement) while ensuring that the models faithfully replicate human-specific processes. This review summarizes and compares the main models developed to investigate granulomas, focusing on their contribution to advancing our understanding of granuloma biology. We also discuss the strengths and limitations of each model, offering insights into their biological relevance and practical applications.
Generation of a Transgenic Mouse Model for Investigating Mitochondria in Sperm
Authors: Sarkar Hironmoy , Batta Suryaprakash R. , Wadhwa Neerja , Majumdar Subeer S. , Pradhan Bhola Shankar
Published: February 2025

Mitochondria play a crucial role in sperm development; however, the mechanisms regulating their function in sperm remain poorly understood. Developing a method to regulate the expression of a target gene within the mitochondria of sperm is a vital step in this area of research. In this study, we aimed to create a system for expressing a transgene in the mitochondria of sperm. As a proof of concept, we generated transgenic mice that express green fluorescent protein (GFP) fused with a mitochondrial localization signal (MLS) driven by the phosphoglycerate kinase 2 (PGK2) promoter, which facilitates the transgene expression in the sperm. Although the PGK2 promoter has previously shown to drive gene expression in spermatocytes and spermatids, the novelty of our approach lies in the combination of PGK2-driven MLS-GFP expression to study mitochondria in vivo. We established two founder lines of transgenic mice through pronuclear microinjection, and MLS-GFP expression was confirmed in the mitochondria of sperm cells using fluorescence microscopy and flow cytometry. Consequently, we provide a novel platform for investigating mitochondrial function in sperm, where GFP can be substituted with other genes of interest to examine their effects on mitochondria. This system specifically targets sperm mitochondria, offering an innovative approach for studying mitochondrial function in vivo.
Recent Advancements in Multimodal Chemically Powered Micro/Nanorobots for Environmental Sensing and Remediation
Authors: Vijay Natarajan , Jeevanandham Sampathkumar , Ramasundaram Subramaniyan , Oh Tae Hwan , Selvan Subramanian Tamil
Published: February 2025

Chemically powered micro/nanorobots (CPMNRs) are self-propelling artificially engineered materials or machines designed with micro-to-nano precision, inspired by the self-migration of biomolecules and microorganisms. CPMNRs convert chemical or external energy into mechanical motion, overcoming forces like Brownian diffusion and viscosity. They are created using top-down or bottom-up approaches for applications in chemo-/biosensing, environmental remediation, molecular imaging, and drug delivery. As self-mixing of contaminated water accelerates the remediation process, CPMNRs are preferred as an ideal choice for environmental applications. Recent advancements in multimodal propulsion technologies, material engineering, and surface modifications have significantly enhanced the capabilities of CPMNRs, enabling them to navigate complex environments and interact with contaminants at the molecular level. This review highlights the latest developments in chemical-driven CPMNRs, focusing on their use in environmental monitoring, pollutant detection, and remediation of heavy metals, microplastics, and organic contaminants in water and soil. It also discusses prospects, sustainability of chemical fuels, environmental biocompatibility, and scalability for large-scale deployment.
Small Intestinal Atresia: Should We Preserve the Peel or Toss It?
Authors: Marino Benedetta , Mottadelli Giulia , Bisol Marta , Sergio Maria , Gamba Piergiorgio , Zambaiti Elisa
Published: February 2025

Background: Apple peel atresia (APA) is a rare and severe form of intestinal atresia, but little is known on long-term outcomes. We compared outcomes of apple-peel atresia based on different surgical approaches. Methods: a retrospective review from two institutions compared APA-resected and APA-preserved patients. Demographics, operative details, postoperative courses and long-term outcomes were analyzed. Results: Of the 16 APA neonates, 10 (62.5%) were in APA-resected and 6 (37.5%) in APA-preserved groups. Early postoperative complications occurred in 7 patients (43.75%) including vomiting, infection, intestinal occlusion, anastomotic dehiscence, multiorgan failure, equally distributed among groups. Length-of-stay is higher in the APA-preserved group (median 67 vs. 27 days, p = 0.14). Overall survival at discharge was 87.5%. Twelve children (75%) were followed for an average of 5 years. Reoperation was required in 4 children owing to anastomotic obstruction and adhesive intestinal obstruction, two in each group. Conclusion: to prevent intestinal failure, keeping the APA shows not inferior results compared to resection, even though it may have a longer first-postoperative course.
Fabrication of Thermally Stable Heat-Shielding Coated Glass for Solar Glazing via Direct Calcination in Air
Authors: Zhang Guangrui , Qin Xiaoting , Wang Dinghui , Li Jinqing , Pan Wenlong , Yin Jian
Published: February 2025

The utilization of heat-shielding glazing technologies can efficiently promote carbon emission reductions and energy savings by decreasing solar irradiation into buildings. Although a variety of glazing technologies have been created for solar glazing, either the heat-shielding performance is low, the thermal stability is poor, or the cost is high. Here, we report a thermally stable heat-shielding coated glass for solar glazing in a simple way via direct calcination of Ce and Sb co-doped SnO2 nanoparticles with polysilazane (PSZ) coatings in air. The resulting coated glass has transmittances of 4.7% at 250–380 nm, 59.3% at 380–780 nm, and 9.7% at 780–2500 nm; excellent environment stability under accelerated aging conditions over 350 h; and also a ca. 50-fold lower fixed cost than commercial low-E glass. Moreover, a coated glass with a high pencil hardness of 9H was also fabricated via further spraying and calcinating of a PSZ coating as the cover layer, which is also the hardest coated solar glaze to our knowledge. The high solar-shielding performance and unprecedented low cost of the Ce and Sb co-doped SnO2-coated glass, as well as the simplicity of its fabrication, exhibit great potential in energy-saving buildings and cars.
Novel Techniques with Memory Extension of Three-Step Derivative-Free Iterative Scheme for Nonlinear Systems
Authors: Kumar Nishant , Jaiswal Jai P. , Argyros Ioannis K.
Published: February 2025

This article presents the development of three-step derivative-free techniques with memory, which achieve higher convergence orders for solving systems of nonlinear equations. The suggested approaches enhance an existing seventh-order method (without memory) by incorporating various adjustable, self-correcting parameters in the first iterative step. This modification leads to a significant increase in the convergence order, with new methods reaching values of approximately 7.2749, 7.5311, 7.6056, 8.1231, 8.2749, and 9.2169. Additionally, the computational efficiency of these new approaches is evaluated against other comparable methods. Numerical tests show that the suggested approaches are consistently more efficient.
Innovative Quantum Encryption Method for RGB Images Based on Bit-Planes and Logistic Maps
Authors: Basiri Saeed , Farhang Matin Laleh , Naseri Mosayeb
Published: February 2025

This study presents a novel encryption method for RGB (Red–Green–Blue) color images that combines scrambling techniques with the logistic map equation. In this method, image scrambling serves as a reversible transformation, rendering the image unintelligible to unauthorized users and thus enhancing security against potential attacks. The proposed encryption scheme, called Bit-Plane Representation of Quantum Images (BRQI), utilizes quantum operations in conjunction with a one-dimensional chaotic system to increase encryption efficiency. The encryption algorithm operates in two phases: first, the quantum image undergoes scrambling through bit-plane manipulation, and second, the scrambled image is mixed with a key image generated using the logistic map. To assess the performance of the algorithm, simulations and analyses were conducted, evaluating parameters such as entropy (a measure of disorder) and correlation coefficients to confirm the effectiveness and robustness of this algorithm in safeguarding and encoding color images. The results show that the proposed quantum color image encryption algorithm surpasses classical methods in terms of security, robustness, and computational complexity.
Correction: Alawadh et al. English Language Learning via YouTube: An NLP-Based Analysis of Users’ Comments. Computers 2023, 12, 24
Authors: Alawadh Husam M. , Alabrah Amerah , Meraj Talha , Rauf Hafiz Tayyab
Published: February 2025

In the original publication [...]
Lingering Shadows and New Horizons: The Complex Legacy of the COVID-19 Lockdown in Greece
Authors: Tsimirikas Christos , Tragantzopoulou Panagiota
Published: February 2025

The COVID-19 pandemic caused unprecedented global disruptions, profoundly impacting mental health and social well-being. While significant research has addressed the negative health consequences of social isolation, little is known about the post-pandemic experience, particularly in Greece. This qualitative study investigates the lasting effects of social isolation during the COVID-19 lockdowns on individuals in Greece, exploring both the negative and positive consequences in the post-pandemic context. One-on-one interviews were conducted with fifteen participants, and the data were analyzed using a thematic analysis. The findings revealed that the lockdown had a profound and enduring impact. Many participants reported heightened social anxiety, a sense of disconnection, and lingering fear about re-engaging in normal social interactions. Nostalgia for pre-pandemic life, characterized by greater social connection and freedom, was a recurring theme. Despite these challenges, the study also highlighted positive outcomes. Some participants viewed enforced solitude as an opportunity for self-reflection and growth, discovering new interests or deepening their understanding of personal values and goals. These findings underscore the complex and enduring effects of social isolation. The study calls for targeted interventions to foster social connectedness and mental health resources, ensuring support as society transitions to a post-pandemic reality. Continued attention from policymakers and public health professionals is crucial.
Analyzing COVID-19 Spread Mechanisms in Japan Using Time Series Decomposition, Clustering, and Regression
Authors: Kyo Koki , Yagishita Sosuke , Yagishita-Kyo Nan
Published: February 2025

In this study, we analyzed daily time series data on newly confirmed COVID-19 cases in each prefecture of Japan to investigate the mechanisms driving the virus’s spread. The dataset spans from 20 January 2020 to 7 May 2023, covering 1204 days and providing insights into daily case variations across prefectures. First, the time series data for each prefecture were decomposed into trend, weekly variation, and short-term components. Using the trend components, we estimated the time lag of infection spread between prefectures, revealing that Okinawa and Tokyo consistently led the spread compared to other regions. Factors influencing these lag values were also analyzed. Through a cluster analysis, we categorized all of the prefectures into 13 groups and conducted a detailed investigation of the infection dynamics within each group. The results highlighted that regions centered around Tokyo in the Kanto area acted as a primary epicenter, driving the nationwide spread through regions centered around Osaka and Kyoto. Additionally, we examined the effects of holidays and seasonal variations within the short-term components using a regression analysis. The findings showed that holidays initially had a negative effect on case numbers, followed by a significant positive effect one week later. Regarding seasonal effects, November exhibited the highest positive impact, while March demonstrated a negative impact during the analyzed period.