bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Role of OCT in Assessing Vasa Vasorum in Chronic Coronary Syndrome: Insights from Long-Term Follow-Up
Authors: Baruś Piotr , Bartkiewicz Karolina , Pęczek Piotr , Libera Anna , Dunaj Piotr , Jonik Szymon , Kochman Janusz , Grabowski Marcin , Tomaniak Mariusz
Published: February 2025

Background/Objectives: The aim of this study was to analyze the presence of vasa vasorum in optical coherence tomography (OCT) among patients undergoing coronary angiogram for chronic coronary syndrome with intermediate-grade coronary stenoses in relation to long-term follow-up. Methods: This prospective, observational, single-center study enrolled patients with chronic coronary syndrome and intermediate-grade coronary stenosis. OCT was used to assess the presence of vasa vasorum, type of plaque, mean lumen area, fibrous cap thickness (FCT), and minimal lumen diameter. Patients were divided into two groups based on the presence of vasa vasorum. Results: Overall, 97 patients were enrolled, of whom 82.5% were male. Lesions with vasa vasorum were found in 76 patients. Comorbidities such as diabetes mellitus, hypertension, dyslipidemia, and chronic kidney disease did not differ significantly between groups. Among patients with vasa vasorum, there were higher serum creatinine levels (1.03 ± 0.24 vs. 0.87 ± 0.22, p = 0.009). OCT showed that minimal lumen diameter differed between groups (2.26 ± 0.38 mm vs. 2.57 ± 0.57 mm p = 0.026) for the vasa vasorum group and no vasa vasorum, respectively, however minimal lumen area was similar in both groups (3.88 ± 1.76 mm2 vs. 4.01 ± 2.00 mm2, p = 0.731, for vasa vasorum and no vasa vasorum, respectively). Furthermore, the presence of vasa vasorum seemed to have no significant correlation with cardiovascular events in the 2-year, 5-year, and 10-year follow-up. Conclusions: The presence of lesions with vasa vasorum was not shown to be linked to any unfavorable patients’ outcomes. Among men, coronary atherosclerotic plaques were more likely to contain OCT-visualized vasa vasorum.
Accelerating Earlier Access to Anti-TNF-α Agents with Biosimilar Medicines in the Management of Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Authors: Fiorino Gionata , Ananthakrishnan Ashwin , Cohen Russell D. , Cross Raymond K. , Deepak Parakkal , Farraye Francis A. , Halfvarson Jonas , Steinhart A. Hillary
Published: February 2025

Data indicate that earlier initiation of anti-tumor necrosis factor alpha (anti-TNF-α) biologic medicines may prevent progression to irreversible bowel damage and improve outcomes for patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), particularly Crohn’s disease. However, the high cost of such therapies may restrict access and prevent timely treatment of IBD. Biosimilar anti-TNF-α medicines may represent a valuable opportunity for cost savings and optimized patient outcomes by improving access to advanced therapies and allowing earlier anti-TNF-α treatment initiation. Biosimilar anti-TNF-α medicines have been shown to offer consistent therapeutic outcomes to their reference medicines, yet despite entering the IBD treatment armamentarium over 10 years ago, their implementation in clinical practice remains suboptimal. Factors limiting the ‘real’ use of biosimilar anti-TNF-α medicines may include an ongoing lack of understanding and acceptance of biosimilars by both healthcare professionals (HCPs) and patients, as well as systemic factors such as formulary decisions outside of the control of the prescriber. In this review, an expert panel of gastroenterologists discusses HCP-level considerations to improve biosimilar anti-TNF-α utilization in IBD in order to support early anti-TNF-α initiation and maximize patient outcomes.
Clinical and Endoscopic Characteristics of Patients with Oligopolyposis
Authors: Abu-Juma Ali , Abu-Galion Fahmi , Lerner Zlata , Weissmann Sarah , Ben-Shoshan Liza , Alamour Waleed , Abu-Arar Muhammad , Abu-Freha Naim
Published: February 2025

Background/Objectives: Oligopolyposis is a rare condition characterized by 10 to 100 adenomas in the colon. We aimed to investigate the clinical and endoscopic features of patients with oligopolyposis by comparing patients who carried pathogenic mutations and those who did not. Methods: This retrospective study included patients with a cumulative count of 10–100 adenomas found in the colon, at a single center. Clinical, endoscopic, and genetic data were analyzed. Results: A total of 155 patients were identified as having oligopolyposis. Genetic testing using a multigene panel was performed among 85 (55%) patients, while founder or family mutation testing was performed among 7 (4.5%) patients. No genetic testing was carried out in 63 (40.5%) patients. Pathogenic polyposis-related mutations were identified in 14 (16%) out of 85 patients who underwent genetic testing. Among these, seven (50%) mutations were found in the APC gene and seven (50%) in the MUTYH gene. A significantly higher proportion of mutation carriers were of Arab ethnicity (35.7% vs. 4.2%, p < 0.001). There was no significant difference between carriers and non-carriers with regard to family history of polyps or cancer. Colorectal cancer was found to be the initial presentation in three (21%) carriers and five (7%) non-carriers. Colonic surgeries were reported among 4 (28.6%) carriers and 13 (18.6%) non-carriers. No significant differences in the rates of colorectal cancer or death were observed between carriers and non-carriers. Conclusions: Only a small proportion of patients with oligopolyposis were found to be mutation carriers, with significant ethnic differences in mutation frequency but no notable differences in clinical features, colorectal cancer rates, or mortality.
Impact of Hip Rotation Angle Following Total Hip Arthroplasty with Leg Lengthening
Authors: Imai Norio , Hirano Yuki , Homma Daisuke , Komuta Yuki , Horigome Yoji , Kawashima Hiroyuki
Published: February 2025

Background/Objectives: Few studies report on hip rotation after total hip arthroplasty (THA); however, details of the factors affecting the hip rotation angle are unknown. We aimed to investigate the factors related to hip rotation after THA. Methods: This study included 124 consecutive patients who underwent THA. We retrospectively analyzed the correlation between changes in the rotation angle of the femur relative to the pelvis, global femoral offset, and femoral version and leg lengthening. Moreover, we performed a multivariate regression analysis of these parameters to calculate the efficacy of the change in the rotation angle of the femur relative to the pelvis. Results: Leg lengthening and femoral version change were negatively correlated, whereas change in global femoral offset was positively correlated with leg lengthening, with correlation coefficients of 0.376, 0354, and 0.334, respectively. Regarding the multiple regression analysis, only leg lengthening was correlated with the change in rotation angle of the femur relative to the pelvis, with a coefficient of −0.336. Conclusions: The change in the rotation angle of the femur relative to the pelvis is only associated with leg lengthening in multivariate analysis. In actual planning, in cases where the hip is internally rotated, it may be better not to excessively increase leg length, decrease anterior stem anteversion, or increase global femoral offset. Thus, physicians should avoid large leg lengthening for patients with highly external rotation in their hip joint as it may lead to increased internal rotation of the hip, consequently resulting in relative malpositioning and subsequent implant impingement and/or dislocation following THA.
Gender Differences in Clinical Practice Regarding Coronary Heart Disease: A Systematic Review
Authors: Knox Emily Caitlin Lily , Mateo-Rodríguez Inmaculada , Daponte-Codina Antonio , Rosell-Ortiz Fernando , Solá-Muñoz Silvia , Codina-Rodríguez Antía , Bueno Héctor , Ruiz-Azpiazu José Ignacio
Published: February 2025

Background/Objectives: A systematic review was performed with the aim of analysing potential sex differences in the overall treatment of coronary heart disease (CHD). Methods: Studies published between January 2011 and November 2023 that conducted a sex-based analysis of the provision of any type of therapeutic measure to treat CHD were included. A search was performed of the Web of Science database in November 2023, resulting in 9070 articles. Study quality was examined using the Newcastle–Ottawa scale. A worksheet was produced to extract data pertaining to the title, year of publication, sample, context, study design, dependent variables, time-frame, treatment type, and outcomes reported by each article. This systematic review followed PRISMA guidelines, and the research protocol was submitted to PROSPERO (CRD42022330238). Results: A total of 80 articles presenting data representing 560.070,624 individual datapoints were selected to comprise the final sample. The main findings revealed that the majority of studies highlighted inequalities that disadvantaged females in all analysed treatment categories (pharmacological treatment, invasive interventions, rehabilitation programmes, and other treatment types). Conclusions: Despite the abundance of evidence on the need to improve healthcare provision to females with CHD, few studies examined the reasons or mechanisms underlying the inequalities identified.
Leveraging Delayed Strength Gains in Supplementary Cementitious Material Concretes: Rethinking Mix Design for Enhanced Cost Efficiency and Sustainability
Authors: de Jesus Wanderson Santos , de Almeida Thalles Murilo Santos , da Silva Suânia Fabiele Moitinho , Souza Marcelo Tramontin , Leal Eduarda Silva , Souza Ramon Santos , Sacramento Laio Andrade , Allaman Ivan Bezerra , Pessôa José Renato de Castro
Published: February 2025

Engineers commonly use the 28-day characteristic strength of concrete for project calculations, but this may not reflect the full-strength potential, especially in concretes with supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs). SCMs, known for their slow reactivity, often delay optimal strength beyond 28 days, requiring higher cement content to speed up early strength development, thus increasing production costs. This study examined the relationship between concrete age and mechanical strength across eight cement types, including tests for axial compression, water absorption, void index, and specific mass. The findings showed that pozzolan and slag cements gained significant long-term strength due to slow pozzolanic reactions. Conversely, limestone filler mixes had lower initial strength and slower progress, likely due to increased porosity from fine fillers. A correlation was found between higher pozzolan content and improved durability, including reduced water absorption and void index. Cost analysis indicated that optimizing cement mix designs for targeted strength levels could reduce production costs, especially for concretes with high SCM content. Using long-term characteristic strength rather than the traditional 28-day strength resulted in approximately 14% savings, particularly for slag- and pozzolan-based cements. The savings were less significant for other cement types, emphasizing the importance of adjusting mix designs based on both performance and financial considerations.
Information-Reduction Ability Assessment in the Context of Complex Problem-Solving
Authors: Bu Xiaoxuan , Zheng Huijia , Tian Xuetao , Luo Fang
Published: February 2025

In this era with an increasing overabundance of information, the ability to distill relevant information, i.e., “information reduction”, is becoming more crucial to daily functioning. However, the fact that information reduction is most prominent in complex situations poses challenges for measuring and quantifying this ability. Existing assessments tend to suffer from either too little complexity, compromising ecological validity, or too much complexity, which makes distinguishing and measuring information-reduction behavior difficult. To address this gap in the literature, our study developed a novel assessment tool, the Little Monster Clinic (LMC), designed to capture the information-reduction process within complex problem-solving scenarios. Following the classic complex problem-solving (CPS) framework, LMC simulates real-world medical situations and provides a sufficiently complex task for assessing information-reduction ability. We recruited 303 students to validate our tool and identified six key indicators for information reduction, which demonstrated a high degree of internal consistency (α = 0.83). Structural validity from the confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) supported a one-factor model of information reduction based on the extracted indicators (χ2 = 14.872, df = 5, χ2/df = 2.774, CFI = 0.989, TLI = 0.967, RMSEA = 0.077, SRMR = 0.024). The significant correlation (r = 0.43, p < 0.01) between LMC and Genetics Lab demonstrated its criterion-related validity. Furthermore, exploratory analysis highlighted the importance of identifying key relevant information during the process of information reduction. These findings lend support to both the theoretical foundation and practical applications of information-reduction assessment.
AUV Online Path Planning Strategy Based on Sectorial Gridded Detection Area
Authors: Liu Yang , Sun Jinxi , Li Guojie , Xu Xiujun
Published: February 2025

In this study, an online path planning strategy capable of traversing narrow passages is proposed for an autonomous underwater vehicle equipped only with forward-looking sonar in unknown environments. First, to establish the environment model, the sonar fan-shaped detection area is subdivided into multiple sectorial grids. Then, a comprehensive cost function combining safety, smoothness, and cost is utilized to generate the optimal heading. Furthermore, to safely pass through narrow passages, a sequence of subgoals for polynomial trajectory planning are determined on the perpendicular bisector ahead of the central line. The simulation results demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed strategy, which determines the optimal heading through fan-shaped grid costs and generates a safe and smooth path. The AUV can achieve more safety navigating in obstructed areas and narrow passages.
Analysis of Whole-Genome for Alternaria Species Identification
Authors: Yang Ying , Gan Yutong , Xu Wenjie , Huang Yuanhao , Xin Tianyi , Tan Rui , Song Jingyuan
Published: February 2025

The genus Alternaria, functioning as a saprobe, endophyte, and plant pathogen, is widely distributed across various natural and human-impacted environments. Leaf spot and black spot diseases, caused by Alternaria species, are the most prevalent plant diseases within this genus, leading to significant reductions in crop yields and substantial economic losses. To facilitate the timely detection of Alternaria species during the early stages of infection, enable targeted treatments, and mitigate associated damages, we employed a species identification method based on Analysis of whole-GEnome (AGE). We downloaded 148 genomes, including 31 Alternaria species, from the NCBI GenBank database. Through bioinformatics analysis, we constructed a specific-target sequence library and selected a representative sequence per species. The specific target sequences of the seven exemplary Alternaria species were subsequently used for validation and rapid detection, utilizing Sanger sequencing and CRISPR-Cas12a technology, respectively. The results demonstrated that our method accurately identified the target species. Additionally, by combining Enzymatic Recombinase Amplification (ERA) with CRISPR-Cas12a, we achieved rapid and precise identification of genomic DNA samples, with a detection limit as low as 0.01 ng/µL within 30 min. Therefore, AGE proves to be a highly robust and efficient method for the detection of Alternaria species, offering broad potential for various applications.
Toric Aberrometric Extended Depth of Focus Intraocular Lens: Visual Outcomes, Rotational Stability, Patients’ Satisfaction, and Spectacle Independence
Authors: Bonacci Erika , Pagnacco Camilla , Anastasi Marco , De Gregorio Alessandra , Marchini Giorgio , Pedrotti Emilio
Published: February 2025

Objective: To evaluate visual outcomes, rotational stability, patients’ satisfaction, and spectacle independence after bilateral Toric extended depth of focus intraocular lens (EDOF IOL) implantation. Methods: Prospective observational study including cataract patients with bilateral corneal astigmatism between 0.75 and 3.00 D implanted with Toric EDOF IOLs. After three months distance corrected and uncorrected visual acuity at 4 m (DCVA and UDVA), 80 cm (DCI80VA and UI80VA), 67 cm (DCI67VA and UI67VA), and 40 cm (DCNVA and UNVA), IOL stability by Toric IOL Assistant tool (Osiris T, CSO, Florence, Italy), binocular defocus curves, contrast sensitivity (CS), halometry, reading performance, and subjective and objective (Root mean square-RMS, modulation transfer function-MTF, cut-off and point-spread-function-PSF-Strehl ratio) visual quality were evaluated. Results: Forty eyes from 20 astigmatic patients were enrolled. Mean refractive spherical equivalent and residual cylinder were −0.21 ± 0.74 D and 0.29 ± 0.31 D, respectively. No patients needed additional surgery due to IOL rotation. Binocular UDVA, UI80VA, UI67VA, and UNVA ≤ 0.2 logMAR was found in 90%, 95%, 85%, and 80%. Distance-corrected visual outcomes have overall shown higher performances. All visual acuities at defocus curves were ≤0.125 logMAR between +0.50 D and −2.00 D. PSF-Strehl ratio, MTF cut-off, RMS were 0.26 ± 0.28, 19.82 ± 12.35, 0.31 ± 0.17. Reading analysis reached 125.42 ± 27.21 words/minute, 92.56 ± 7.82, 0.17 ± 0.15 logMAR and 0.50 ± 0.11 logRAD for mean reading speed, visual acuity score, reading acuity, and critical print size, respectively. CS was higher in photopic conditions. Subjective spectacle independence was achieved in 80% of patients. Conclusions: Toric EDOF IOL showed rotational stability and reliable astigmatic correction. It provided spectacle independence and good performance from distance to near distance, reaching high patient satisfaction without undermining binocular quality of vision.
“He Speaks Two Languages at the Same Time … So, Why Should It Be Sad?”—Dutch Multilingual Children’s Beliefs About Language Use and Language Mixing In- and Outside the Home
Authors: Knopp Eva , Turling Sterre , van Dijk Chantal , Goriot Claire
Published: February 2025

This study investigates the beliefs about multilingualism and the multilingual language use of multilingual children living in the Netherlands, a highly diverse and multilingual society. We interviewed 26 8- to 12-year-old primary school children with different home languages (i.e., English, German, Polish or Turkish). Children indicated how a multilingual alter-ego felt about multilingual language use scenarios and why. The scenarios comprised situations using their different languages with parents, friends or teachers in monolingual and multilingual modes. Children overwhelmingly associated neutral or positive feelings with using the societal and home language. These feelings were not consistently affected by the societal prestige of their home language (measured by English and German vs. Polish and Turkish as their home language). The content analysis indicated that, besides competence, accommodating the interlocutor, personal preference and normality were the most frequent explanations children provided for their emotional reactions. Our findings indicate that the participating children experience being multilingual as normal and are not (yet) negatively affected in their attitudes despite their experience with a monolingual bias at school. Although no effects of home language prestige emerged, differences between children from specific home language communities suggest that myths about multilingual competence and code-mixing persist.
Integration of Membrane-Based Pretreatment Methods with Pressure-Retarded Osmosis for Performance Enhancement: A Review
Authors: Pakdaman Sara , Nouri Giti , Mulligan Catherine N. , Nasiri Fuzhan
Published: February 2025

Osmotic energy provides an emerging renewable alternative by leveraging the salinity gradient between two solutions. Among these technologies, pressure-retarded osmosis (PRO) has attracted attention; however, its deployment is hindered by obstacles resulting from impurities in feed and draw solutions and lack of suitable membranes. This review explores the integration of membrane-based pretreatments with PRO, highlighting their influence on resolving the technical drawbacks of standalone PRO systems. Membrane-based pretreatments have shown considerable potential to overcome these challenges by improving the quality of water, reducing membrane fouling and enhancing its performance, and ultimately contributing to recovery of energy, resulting in higher power density. Additionally, the use of different nanomaterials has been proposed for membrane modification to optimize PRO performance. Moreover, the study investigates recent advancements in hybrid configurations for harnessing existing infrastructure and to enhance energy efficiency. Offering a comprehensive review on this integrated approach contributes to valuable insights for advancing membrane-based hybrid systems toward commercial viability. Consequently, investment in developing advanced computational modeling and experimental validation, utilization of advanced membrane materials with higher fouling resistance, and optimization of system configurations by using dual-stage and multi-stage designs are required to overcome these limitations.
High-Performance Oil Well Cement with Modified Calcium Carbonate Whiskers: Enhancing Durability Under HTHP Conditions
Authors: Liu Xingguo , Qin Jiankun , Dai Rongdong , Zhou Hanguo , Pang Xueyu , Chen Xuhui
Published: February 2025

This study investigates the effect of incorporating modified calcium carbonate whiskers, treated with tetraethyl orthosilicate (TEOS), to enhance the mechanical properties and sealing integrity of oil well cement under high-temperature and high-pressure (HTHP) conditions. Traditional cement systems are prone to brittleness and cracking under dynamic loads, leading to compromised wellbore sealing performance. Our findings demonstrate that fiber-toughened cement slurry improves the toughness and sealing performance of the cement annulus, maintaining gas tightness and mechanical integrity under cyclic alternating pressures at 150 °C. Specifically, the inclusion of 5% modified whisker fibers improves compressive strength by 24.5% and flexural strength by 43.3% while maintaining stable rheological and thickening properties. These results support the hypothesis that modified whisker fibers enhance the durability and sealing integrity of cement wellbores under extreme conditions, providing a practical solution for challenging cementing applications.
Applying Levy and DQ Methods to Hygrothermal Deformation of Piezoelectric/GPLs Plates with Porosities Lying on Elastic Foundations Using a Quasi-3D Plate Theory
Authors: Al Mukahal Fatemah H. H. , Alsebai Fatemah , Sobhy Mohammed
Published: February 2025

The hygrothermal deformation of nanocomposite piezoelectric plates containing internal pores lying on elastic foundations is illustrated in this paper by utilizing a novel quasi-3D plate theory (Q3DT). This nanocomposite plate has been strengthened by functionally graded graphene platelets (FG GPLs). For the purpose of identifying the FG porous materials, four alternative patterns of porosity distribution are employed, with the first pattern having a uniform distribution and the others having an uneven one. The material properties of the reinforced plate are estimated based on the Halpin–Tsai model. From the proposed theory and the virtual work principle, the basic differential equations are derived. The Levy method is used to convert the deduced partial differential equations to ordinary ones. The differential quadrature method (DQM) as a fast-converging method is utilized to solve these equations for various boundary conditions. The minimal number of grid points needed to obtain the converging solution is found by introducing a convergence study. After validating the obtained results with the studies of other researchers, this study’s findings are provided tabularly and graphically with numerous comprehensive discussions to examine the impact of the various factors of the proposed responding system.
Structural Characterization of Pinnatoxin Isomers
Authors: Selwood Andrew I. , Miles Christopher O. , Wilkins Alistair L. , Rise Frode , Finch Sarah C. , van Ginkel Roel
Published: February 2025

Pinnatoxins, a group of marine biotoxins primarily produced by the dinoflagellate Vulcanodinium rugosum, have garnered significant attention due to their potent toxic effects and widespread distribution in marine ecosystems. LC–MS analysis of shellfish and V. rugosum cultures revealed the presence of previously unidentified isomers of pinnatoxins D, E, F, and H, at levels approximately six times lower than those of known isomers. The chemical structures of these isopinnatoxins were determined using a combination of LC–MS/MS and NMR spectroscopy, which demonstrated that the isomerization of each pinnatoxin occurred through the opening and recyclization of the spiro-linked tetrahydropyranyl D-ring to form a smaller tetrahydrofuranyl ring. The acute toxicity of isopinnatoxin E was determined by intraperitoneal injection into mice and was found to be significantly lower than that of pinnatoxin E. Given their low toxicity and low abundance, it is unlikely that isopinnatoxins contribute significantly to the overall toxicity of pinnatoxins.
Mechanical Properties and Strengthening Mechanisms of FCC-Based and Refractory High-Entropy Alloys: A Review
Authors: She Shuohong , Wang Chengxi , Chen Ming , Ji Vincent
Published: February 2025

The excellent mechanical properties of high-entropy alloys, especially under harsh service environments, have attracted increasing attention in the last decade. FCC-based and refractory high-entropy alloys (HEAs) are the most extensively used series. However, the strength of FCC-base HEAs is insufficient, although they possess a great ductility and fracture toughness at both room and low temperatures. With regard to the BCC-based refractory HEAs, the unsatisfactory ductility at room temperature shadows their ultrahigh strength at room and high temperatures, as well as their excellent thermal stability. In order to strike a balance between strength and toughness, strengthening mechanisms should be first clarified. Therefore, typical mechanical performance and corresponding strengthening factors are systemically summarized, including the solid solution strengthening, second phase, interface, and synergistic effects for FCC-base HEAs, along with the optimization of principal elements, construction of multi-phase, the doping of non-metallic interstitial elements, and the introduction of kink bands for refractory HEAs. Among which the design of meta-stable structures, such as chemical short-range order, and kink bands has been shown to be a promising strategy to further improve the mechanical properties of HEAs.
Printed Circuit Board Sample Expansion and Automatic Defect Detection Based on Diffusion Models and ConvNeXt
Authors: Xu Youzhi , Wu Hao , Liu Yulong , Liu Xiaoming
Published: February 2025

Soldering of printed circuit board (PCB)-based surface-mounted assemblies is a critical process, and to enhance the accuracy of detecting their multi-targeted soldering defects, we propose an automated sample generation method that combines ControlNet and a Stable Diffusion Model. This method can expand the dataset by quickly obtaining sample images with high quality containing both defects and normal detection targets. Meanwhile, we propose the Cascade Mask R-CNN model with ConvNeXt as the backbone, which performs well in dealing with multi-target defect detection tasks. Unlike previous detection methods that can only detect a single component, it can detect all components in the region. The results of the experiment demonstrate that the detection accuracy of our proposed approach is significantly enhanced over the previous convolutional neural network model, with an increase of more than 10.5% in the mean accuracy precision (mAP) and 9.5% in the average recall (AR).
Collaborative Heterogeneous Mini-Robotic 3D Printer for Manufacturing Complex Food Structures with Multiple Inks and Curved Deposition Surfaces
Authors: Mendoza-Bautista Karen Jazmin , Flores-Jimenez Mariana S. , Vázquez Tejeda Serrano Laisha Daniela , Trujillo de Santiago Grissel , Alvarez Mario Moises , Molina Arturo , Alfaro-Ponce Mariel , Chairez Isaac
Published: February 2025

The necessity of developing more realistic artificial food requires the aggregation of different biomaterials in an ordered and controlled manner. One of the most advanced methods for this is food printers reproducing additive manufacturing processes. This study presents a fully automatized 3D food printer leveraging collaborative Cartesian and multi-ink robotic systems to create complex food structures, with materials with different rheological settings using a screw conveyor configuration with controlled motion velocity. The developed food printer followed a formal mechatronic design strategy with fully functional instrumentation and automation systems. An adaptive controller was developed and implemented to regulate the coordinated operation of booth robotic devices, which are enforced by the G-code corresponding to the target food structure, leading to the necessary resolution. This device was tested with different commercial food inks to develop structures with complex shapes. The workability of the developed printer was confirmed by examining the food samples obtained using multiple materials, including creating different three-dimensional structures of a single complex food ink and creating simple structures made of different food inks with diverse structures that could yield a synthetic tissue that reproduces synthetic meat.
Modeling and Implementation of Synchronization for Large-Aperture Electromagnetic MEMS Mirrors
Authors: Xu Fahu , Zhao Lingxiao
Published: February 2025

MEMS-based LiDAR has showcased extensive application potential in the autonomous driving sector, attributed to its cost-effectiveness, compactness, and seamless integration capabilities. However, MEMS LiDAR suffers from a short detection range, due to the small receiving aperture of the MEMS mirror. Our early study attempted to increase the detection range of MEMS LiDAR with a semi-coaxial design. In this paper, we further investigate the synchronization method for large-aperture electromagnetic MEMS mirrors, in which a synchronous motion transfer model of electromagnetic MEMS mirrors is constructed. The results of the simulations and experiments demonstrate that two electromagnetic MEMS mirrors are synchronous with an aperture of 60 π mm2, FoV of 60°, and scanning frequency of 220 Hz. The entire synchronization process of the electromagnetic MEMS mirrors is completed within 10 s, which verifies the feasibility of synchronizing large-aperture electromagnetic MEMS mirrors to increase the detection range of MEMS LiDAR.
Isolation, Characterization, and Genomic Analysis of Bacteriophages Against Pseudomonas aeruginosa Clinical Isolates from Early and Chronic Cystic Fibrosis Patients for Potential Phage Therapy
Authors: Nour El-Din Hanzada T. , Kettal Maryam , Granados Maciel José C. , Beaudoin Greg , Oktay Umut , Hrapovic Sabahudin , Sad Subash , Dennis Jonathan J. , Peters Danielle L. , Chen Wangxue
Published: February 2025

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is associated with both community and hospital-acquired infections. It colonizes the lungs of cystic fibrosis (CF) patients, establishing an ecological niche where it adapts and evolves from early to chronic stages, resulting in deteriorating lung function and frequent exacerbations. With antibiotics resistance on the rise, there is a pressing need for alternative personalized treatments (such as bacteriophage therapy) to combat P. aeruginosa infections. In this study, we aimed to isolate and characterize phages targeting both early and chronic P. aeruginosa isolates and evaluate their potential for phage therapy. Four highly virulent phages belonging to myoviral, podviral, and siphoviral morphotypes were isolated from sewage samples. These phages have a broad host range and effectively target 62.5% of the P. aeruginosa isolates with a positive correlation to the early isolates. All the phages have a virulence index of ≥0.90 (0.90–0.98), and one has a large burst size of 331 PFU/cell and a latency period of 30 min. All phages are stable under a wide range of temperature and pH conditions. Genomic analysis suggests the four phages are strictly lytic and devoid of identifiable temperate phage repressors and genes associated with antibiotic resistance and virulence. More significantly, two of the phages significantly delayed the onset of larval death when evaluated in a lethal Galleria mellonella infection model, suggesting their promise as phage therapy candidates for P. aeruginosa infections.
Synthesis and Characterization of Na-X Zeolite Using a Natural Opaline Diatomite Rock from SE Spain
Authors: Novembre Daniela , Gimeno Domingo
Published: February 2025

A natural diatomite was used to hydrothermally synthesise Na-X zeolite. Albacete diatomite from southern Spain (mainly constituted by opaline silica) was chemically treated with HCl and NaOH to obtain sodium silicate, a reagent necessary for zeolitic synthesis. The experimental synthesis protocol was performed at 75 °C by mixing the obtained silicatic solution with chemical reagents represented by soda and alumina. Na-X zeolite begins to appear after only 1.5 h and reaches its crystallisation climax at 11 h. Hydroxisodalite appears at 40 h. Synthesized phases were subjected to chemical-crystallographical and mineralogical-textural characterisation. The thermal behaviour and infrared response have also been investigated. The purity of the synthesized zeolite, verified through quantitative phase analysis using the combined Rietveld and reference intensity ratio methods, opens the way to a possible industrial transfer of the experimental procedure.
A Simplified Guide RNA Synthesis Protocol for SNAP- and Halo-Tag-Based RNA Editing Tools
Authors: Hofacker Daniel Tobias , Kalkuhl Sebastian , Schmid Jana Franziska , Singh Shubhangi , Stafforst Thorsten
Published: February 2025

SNAP-tag and Halo-tag have been employed to achieve targeted RNA editing by directing the deaminase domain of human ADAR to specific sites in the transcriptome. This targeting is facilitated by short guide RNAs (gRNAs) complementary to the target transcript, which are chemically modified with benzylguanine or chloroalkane moieties to enable covalent binding to the respective self-labeling enzymes. However, broad application of this approach has been limited by challenges such as low scalability, the requirement for specialized chemical expertise and equipment, and labor-intensive protocols. In this study, we introduce streamlined, efficient protocols for the synthesis and purification of these linkers, suitable for SNAP-tag and Halo-tag applications, without the need for advanced chemical equipment. Our methods enable linker coupling in a kit-like manner and support the high-yield production of modified gRNAs. We demonstrate that the newly synthesized linkers and gRNA designs perform similarly to previously published constructs with regard to RNA editing efficiency. Moreover, large-scale production of modified gRNAs facilitates their use in studies involving cellular uptake and in vivo experiments.
Insights from Femtosecond Transient Absorption Spectroscopy into the Structure–Function Relationship of Glyceline Deep Eutectic Solvents
Authors: Pandian Rathiesh , Burda Clemens
Published: February 2025

This study aimed to determine the structure–function relationship (SFR) for ChCl–glycerol mixtures, a deep eutectic solvent (DES), by investigating their microscopic solvation dynamics and how it relates to their macroscopic properties across varying concentrations of ChCl. Femtosecond transient absorption (fs-TA) spectroscopy revealed two distinct solvation dynamics time constants: τ1, governed by glycerol–glycerol interactions, and τ2, dominated by the choline response. The τ2 minimum at 25–30 mol % ChCl closely aligned with the eutectic composition (~33.33 mol % ChCl), where the glycerol network was the most organized and the choline ions exhibited the fastest relaxation. The viscosity decreased sharply up to ~25 mol % ChCl and then plateaued, while the conductivity increased monotonically with ChCl concentration, reflecting enhanced ionic mobility. The density decreased with both increasing ChCl concentration and temperature, indicating disrupted hydrogen bonding and reduced molecular packing. The polarity, measured using betaine-30 (B30) and the ET(30) polarity scale, increased steeply up to approximately 25 mol % ChCl before reaching a plateau. These findings identified the eutectic composition as the optimal concentration range for balancing stability, fluidity, conductivity, and enhanced dynamics within the glycerol system.
Nucleocapsid Protein of SARS-CoV-2 Upregulates RANTES Expression in A172 Glioblastoma Cells
Authors: Gadilgereyeva Bakhytgul , Kunushpayeva Zhanar , Abdrakhmanova Mira , Khassenova Aizere , Minigulov Nail , Burster Timo , Filchakova Olena
Published: February 2025

SARS-CoV-2, the pathogenic virus that induces COVID-19 disease, contains four structural proteins in its virion. The nucleocapsid (N) protein is one of the four structural proteins that play a crucial role in the assembly of viral RNA into ribonucleoprotein. In addition, the N protein contributes to viral pathogenesis. One of the functions attributed to the N protein is the triggering of cytokine release by lung epithelial cells, macrophages, and monocytes. This study addresses the cellular effects of the N protein of SARS-CoV-2 on cells of glial origin. We report the upregulation of the RANTES chemokine in A172 glioblastoma cells at both the mRNA and protein levels in response to exposure to SARS-CoV-2 nucleocapsid protein. The N protein did not have an effect on cell viability and cell migration.
Unveiling the Role of Fractionated Graphene Oxide in Nitric Oxide Scavenging
Authors: Chermashentsev Grigoriy R. , Mikheev Ivan V. , Ratova Daria-Mariia V. , Proskurnina Elena V. , Proskurnin Mikhail A.
Published: February 2025

The feasibility of saturating aqueous anoxic solutions with in situ-generated high-purity nitric oxide (NO) is shown herein. A methemoglobin assay estimated the average nitric oxide concentration to be ca. 20 ± 3 µM. Graphene oxide aqueous dispersions were prepared by ultrasound-assisted extra exfoliation. These dispersions, including unpurified (pristine) samples and samples purified from transition metal impurities (bulk) fractions (bulkGO) and (nano) separated fractions (nanoGO) in a range of 0.5 to 14 kDa were prepared with ppm level concentrations. A robust and reproducible chemiluminescence (CL) assay validated the interaction between graphene oxide and NO in a luminol-based system. The results showed a significant increase in NO scavenging activity within the bulkGO fractions to nanofractions ranging from 14 to 3.5 kDa. The different reaction pathways underlying the transformation of nitric oxide are being evaluated, focusing on understanding how its presence or absence affects these processes. Our kinetic model suggests a significant difference in nitric oxide regulation; nanoGO demonstrates an interception rate seventy-times higher than that achieved through CL quenching.
Impregnation of Se2S6 into a Nitrogen- and Sulfur-Co-Doped Functional Metal Carbides and Nitrides for High-Performance Li-S Batteries
Authors: Chen Lu , Zheng Zhongyuan , Meng Shuo , Wu Wenwei , Zhou Weicheng , Yang Shanshan , Liao Kexuan , Zuo Yuanhui , He Ting
Published: February 2025

In this study, nitrogen- and sulfur-co-doped MXene (NS-MXene) was developed as a high-performance cathode material for lithium–sulfur (Li-S) batteries. Heterocyclic Se2S6 molecules were successfully confined within the NS-MXene structure using a simple melt impregnation method. The resulting NS-MXene exhibited a unique wrinkled morphology with a stable structure which facilitated rapid ion transport and provided a physical barrier to mitigate the shuttle effect of polysulfide. The introduction of nitrogen and sulfur heteroatoms into the MXene structure not only shifted the Ti d-band center towards the Fermi level but also significantly polarizes the MXene, enhancing the conversion kinetics and ion diffusion capability while preventing the accumulation of Li2S6. Additionally, the incorporation of Se and S in Se2S6 improved the conductivity compared to S alone, resulting in reduced polarization and enhanced electrical properties. Consequently, NS-MXene/Se2S6 exhibited excellent cycling stability, high reversible capacity, and reliable performance at high current densities and under extreme conditions, such as high sulfur loading and low electrolyte-to-sulfur ratios. This work presents a simple and effective strategy for designing heteroatom-doped MXene materials, offering promising potential for the development of high-performance, long-lasting Li-S batteries for practical applications.
The Impact of Artificially Sweetened Drinks on Metformin Efficacy
Authors: Ismail Esraa , Chi Xiaofei , Bhatta Mallika , Hosford Jennifer , Bernier Angelina
Published: February 2025

Background: Artificially sweetened beverages (ASBs) are commonly recommended as a substitute for sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs) in dietary counseling. Childhood obesity, associated with comorbidities like type 2 diabetes (T2D), has risen alongside increased consumption of both SSBs and ASBs. Metformin, a common treatment for pediatric T2D, affects GDF-15, a hormone involved in weight regulation. This pilot study examines the impact of ASBs on the therapeutic effects of metformin in pediatric patients with obesity and prediabetes, focusing on growth differentiation factor 15 (GDF-15) as a potential mediator. Methods: Forty-six children aged 10–21 years were randomized into two groups: one consuming non-sweetened beverages (USB) and the other consuming ASBs during a 12-week metformin intervention. Results: While the USB group showed a greater decrease in the point estimate for mean BMI (−0.55 ± 1.49 USB vs. −0.23 ± 1.60 ASB) and an increase in the point estimate for mean GDF-15 (33.40 ± 58.34 in USB vs. 19.77 ± 85.87 in ASB), these differences were not statistically significant (p = 0.6). As a hypothesis-generating exercise, change in insulin resistance was explored. While again lacking statistical power, we observed that more participants in the USB group showed improvements in insulin resistance. Conclusions: Additional studies are needed to fully elucidate the impact of non-nutritive sweeteners on metabolic health and treatment outcomes in pediatric obesity.
Factors Associated with High Sugary Beverage Intake Among Children in Louisiana: A Survey of Caregivers in New Orleans and Baton Rouge
Authors: Fuster Melissa , Wang Yin , Stoecker Charles , Rose Donald , Hofmann Lisa P. , Pasterz Annie , Knapp Megan
Published: February 2025

Background/Objectives: Sugar-sweetened beverage (SSB) consumption is associated with child obesity, an understudied issue in the southern United States, where obesity rates are the highest in the country. We examined the factors associated with high SSB intakes among children aged 2–12 years in two major cities in Louisiana, New Orleans and Baton Rouge. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study using an online survey. The sample consisted of caregivers of children aged 2–12 years who eat restaurant meals (either dine-in, delivery, or take-out) at least once a month and reside in or near New Orleans or Baton Rouge, LA. Multivariable logistic regression was used to examine factors associated with high child SSB intake frequency (≥4 times/week), including restaurant use, caregiver attitudes towards SSB, and their demographics (n = 1006). Results: Most caregivers reported weekly child SSB consumption (74.6% ≥ 1×/week; 38.1% ≥ 4+/week) and restaurant use (58.8% ≥ 1×/week). High SSB frequency (≥4+/week) was associated with a higher frequency of restaurant use, lower caregiver education, agreement with the statement that SSBs are an important part of family meals, and disagreement with the statement that restaurants should not offer SSBs with children’s meals (p < 0.05). Conclusions: Our results revealed a high frequency of SSB consumption among children who dine at restaurants monthly, with significant associations observed between SSB intake, restaurant meals, and pro-SSB attitudes. These findings may support the need for regulations, such as healthy default beverage policies for children’s menus, to potentially reduce SSB intake and shift social norms, particularly in regions with high childhood obesity rates like Louisiana and the southern USA.
Complex Probiotics Ameliorate Fecal Microbiota Transplantation-Induced IBS in Mice via Gut Microbiota and Metabolite Modulation
Authors: Gao Yuan , Borjihan Qinggele , Zhang Weiqin , Li Lu , Wang Dandan , Bai Lu , Zhu Shiming , Chen Yongfu
Published: February 2025

Background/Objectives: Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a highly prevalent functional gastrointestinal disorder. Emerging evidence implicates gut microbiota dysbiosis in IBS pathogenesis, and probiotic interventions targeting microbial modulation hold therapeutic promise. Methods: this study used fecal microbiota transplantation to establish a mouse model of IBS before evaluating the effects of the complex probiotic by using metagenomics and targeted metabolomics to explore the potential mechanism. Results: After 14 days, the probiotic relieved constipation, reduced inflammation and intestinal permeability, lowered 5-HT levels and increased serotonin transporter (SERT) expression in tissues. Metagenomic analysis showed a reduced inflammation-related species abundance. It also decreased fecal butyric acid, acetic acid and tryptophan levels in IBS mice. Conclusions: The probiotic complex effectively alleviated IBS symptoms in mice by modulating gut microbiota and fecal metabolites, providing insights for future IBS research and treatment.
Vitamin D: Beyond Traditional Roles—Insights into Its Biochemical Pathways and Physiological Impacts
Authors: Voiculescu Vlad Mihai , Nelson Twakor Andreea , Jerpelea Nicole , Pantea Stoian Anca
Published: February 2025

Background: It is true that vitamin D did not earn its title as the “sunshine vitamin” for nothing. In recent years, however, there has been a shift in the perception surrounding vitamin D to a type of hormone that boasts countless bioactivities and health advantages. Historically, vitamin D has been known to take care of skeletal integrity and the calcium–phosphorus balance in the body, but new scientific research displays a much larger spectrum of actions handled by this vitamin. Materials and Methods: A systematic literature search was performed using the following electronic databases: PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Embase, and Cochrane Library. Results: Many emerging new ideas, especially concerning alternative hormonal pathways and vitamin D analogs, are uniformly challenging the classic “one hormone–one receptor” hypothesis. To add more context to this, the vitamin D receptor (VDR) was previously assumed to be the only means through which the biologically active steroid 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 could impact the body. Two other molecules apart from the active hormonal form of 1,25(OH)2D3 have gained interest in recent years, and these have reinvigorated research on D3 metabolism. These metabolites can interact with several other nuclear receptors (like related orphan receptor alpha—RORα, related orphan receptor gamma—RORγ, and aryl hydrocarbon receptor—AhR) and trigger various biological responses. Conclusions: This paper thus makes a case for placing vitamin D at the forefront of new holistic and dermatological health research by investigating the potential synergies between the canonical and noncanonical vitamin D pathways. This means that there are now plentiful new opportunities for manipulating and understanding the full spectrum of vitamin D actions, far beyond those related to minerals.