bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mothers' and Fathers' Experiences of Family Relations and Parenting During the First Year of Parenthood
Authors: Bokhan Tatiana G. , Leshchinskaia Svetlana B. , Terekhina Olga V. , Shabalovskaya Marina V. , Silaeva Anna V. , Malykh Sergey B. , Kovas Yulia
Published: January 2025

The first year of parenthood is considered to be a challenging period, associated with the transformation of family relations. The links between family relations and parenting are widely studied. However, in most research only a limited number of indicators is investigated, and there is a lack of data on the agreement between mothers' and fathers' evaluations of family relations. The aims of the present study were to explore (1) the structure and measurement invariance of marital relations and parenting constructs for mothers and fathers; (2) the associations among the measures of marital relations and parenting in mothers and fathers; (3) the agreement between mothers and fathers in their perception of marital relations, as well as cross‐parent cross‐measure associations of marital relations and self‐rated parenting; (4) average differences between the parents in their perception of marital relations and parenting. The data from 352 Russian‐speaking married couples participating in the Wave 3 of the Prospective Longitudinal Interdisciplinary Study (PLIS) were collected when the children were 9 months old. Seven measures of family relations (marital relations, grandparents' support) and nine measures of parenting were obtained. The statistical analyses included the exploratory factor analysis, assessment of measurement invariance, comparative and correlational analysis. The result showed that measures were organised into coherent factor‐based groupings: (1) marital relations, (2) support from grandparents, (3) childcare and affection, and (4) harsh parental discipline. Six of 12 measures showed partial scalar invariance between mothers and fathers. Moderate within‐measure correlations were observed between mothers' and fathers' assessments of family relations; and weak correlations—for parenting. Mother‐father cross‐measure correlations were moderate for family relations, but negligible for parenting. Small to moderate average differences between mothers and fathers were found for all measures. The results highlight the need to consider similarities and differences between mothers' and fathers' experiences in future research and practice.
Dynamic Solar Panel Orientation for Maximizing Efficiency Based on Trajectory of the Sun
Authors: Bamshad Ali , Kakavand Maziar
Published: January 2025

The rapid expansion of photovoltaic technology is driven by a critical need for electricity and a growing emphasis on sustainable energy solutions. However, the primary challenge is that the efficiency of solar panels remains insufficient, making them less competitive compared to other energy sources in the long term. This inefficiency not only limits the overall power output but also discourages private investors due to slight benefit and low rate of return of investment. Consequently, many potential projects are stalled, as investors are hesitant to commit resources to technologies that do not promise adequate profitability. Additionally, low efficiency wastes the installation space, and the variability in solar energy generation further complicates the economic viability of solar investments. To tackle this issue, the objective of this research is to develop an innovative active‐dynamic strategy aimed at enhancing the operational efficiency of solar panels through advanced Sun‐tracking mechanisms. By integrating an ARM controller with a TSL2550 sensor module, our system orchestrates precise servomotor adjustments to optimize solar panel alignment based on the Sun's trajectory in both vertical and horizontal planes. Furthermore, employing state‐of‐the‐art Micro‐Python coding techniques significantly boosts power generation. Empirical data from practical deployments demonstrate a minimum fourfold increase in the overall efficiency of the solar energy system following the implementation of this strategy.
Optimizing orthobiologic therapies with exercise, diet, and supplements
Authors: Montagnino Jami , Kaufman Matthew W. , Shetty Maya , Centeno Christopher , Fredericson Michael
Published: January 2025

Orthobiologic injections including platelet‐rich plasma (PRP) and cell‐based injections are becoming increasingly popular. Evidence suggests that these therapies can be effective in certain situations. The efficacy of these injections may be more dependent on the quality of the injectate, which given their autologous nature, may be dependent on lifestyle choices like exercise, diet, and supplements. The literature describing PRP injections shows that the number and activity of platelets can improve their efficacy. A multitude of lifestyle modifications can affect those factors. Exercise intensity appears to increase platelet count and increases adhesion as well as release of growth factors. Low inflammatory diets increase platelet counts and activity overall. Stress, some supplements, high cholesterol, or processed sugar diets can increase inflammation and potentially decrease platelet counts as well as quality of PRP injectate. Similarly, cell‐based therapies can be affected by mesenchymal stromal cell (MSC) number and quality. Cell‐based therapy is based upon limiting cellular senescence and increasing replication and differentiation. Exercise may limit senescence and improve replication and differentiation of these cell‐based therapies, especially in older adult populations. There are a multitude of supplements that may potentiate these types of injections and patients should discuss the potential benefits and concerns when starting a supplement regimen. Certain foods as well as changes in oxygenation may limit cellular senescence and lower calorie intake may affect MSC viability and function as well. Overall, the current state of literature describes biologic plausibility of how exercise, diet and supplements might affect orthobiologic injection efficacy. Further translational research needs to be completed to describe the effect size and improve recommendations for clinical implementation.
Studying the Structural, Electronic, and Magnetic Properties of Co2CrGa1 − xAlx Full Heusler Alloys Through Density Functional Theory and Monte Carlo Simulation
Authors: Almahmoud Ali , Almahmoud Amer , Obeidat Abdalla , Gharaibeh Maen
Published: January 2025

Monte Carlo (MC) simulation and density functional theory (DFT) were employed to investigate the structural, mechanical, thermomagnetic, and electronic properties of the Co2CrGa1−xAlx (x = 0, 0.25, 0.50, 0.75, and 1.0) full Heusler alloys. Both the pristine and doped configurations demonstrate the L21 prototype, and there is an observable decrease in the lattice parameter as the Al concentration rises. Electronic analysis was performed in Wien2k using the Perdew–Burke–Ernzerhof of generalized gradient approximation (GGA‐PBE), the modified Becke–Johnson GGA (mBJ‐GGA), and the PBEsol functional, which revealed a band gap in the spin‐down states of both structures by studying the band structure and density of states. The phonon dispersion relation was studied to ensure the stability of the alloy. The magnetic moments in pristine configurations closely resemble those in doped structures, with minimal changes in exchange interaction parameters. The obtained Curie temperature, determined through the MC method, falls within the range of 321–500 K. Finally, studying the magnetic properties of the Heusler alloys can contribute to advancements in spintronics and other magnetic applications.
Testing One Primary and Two Secondary Endpoints in a Two‐Stage Group Sequential Trial With Extensions
Authors: Tamhane Ajit C. , Xi Dong , Mehta Cyrus R. , Romanenko Alexander , Gou Jiangtao
Published: January 2025

We study the problem of testing multiple secondary endpoints conditional on a primary endpoint being significant in a two‐stage group sequential procedure, focusing on two secondary endpoints. This extends our previous work with one secondary endpoint. The test for the secondary null hypotheses is a closed procedure. Application of the Bonferroni test for testing the intersection of the secondary hypotheses results in the Holm procedure while application of the Simes test results in the Hochberg procedure. The focus of the present paper is on developing normal theory analogs of the abovementioned ‐value based tests that take into account (i) the gatekeeping effect of the test on the primary endpoint and (ii) correlations between the endpoints. The normal theory boundaries are determined by finding the least favorable configuration of the correlations and so their knowledge is not needed to apply these procedures. The ‐value based procedures are easy to apply but they are less powerful than their normal theory analogs because they do not take into account the correlations between the endpoints and the gatekeeping effect referred to above. On the other hand, the normal theory procedures are restricted to two secondary endpoints and two stages mainly because of computational difficulties with more than two secondary endpoints and stages. Comparisons between the two types of procedures are given in terms of secondary powers. The sensitivity of the secondary type I error rate and power to unequal information times is studied. Numerical examples and a real case study illustrate the procedures.
Hydrogel Strain Sensors for Integrating Into Dynamic Organ‐on‐a‐Chip
Authors: She Wenqi , Shen Chong , Xue Zaifei , Zhang Bin , Zhang Guoliang , Meng Qin
Published: January 2025

Current hydrogel strain sensors have never been integrated into dynamic organ‐on‐a‐chip (OOC) due to the lack of sensitivity in aqueous cell culture systems. To enhance sensing performance, a novel strain sensor is presented in which the MXene layer is coated on the bottom surface of a pre‐stretched anti‐swelling hydrogel substrate of di‐acrylated Pluronic F127 (F127‐DA) and chitosan (CS) for isolation from the cell culture on the top surface. The fabricated strain sensors display high sensitivity (gauge factor of 290.96), a wide sensing range (0–100%), and high repeatability. To demonstrate its application, alveolar epithelial cells are cultivated on the top surface of the hydrogel strain sensor forming alveolar barriers, and then integrated into dynamic lung‐on‐a‐chip (LOC) systems. This system can sensitively monitor normal physiological breathing, pathological inflammation stimulated by lipopolysaccharide (LPS), and alleviated inflammation through drug intervention.
Bio‐Inspired Highly Stretchable and Ultrafast Autonomous Self‐Healing Supramolecular Hydrogel for Multifunctional Durable Self‐Powered Wearable Devices
Authors: Fu Yuntao , Dang Xugang
Published: January 2025

As skin bioelectronics advances, hydrogel wearable devices have broadened perspectives in environment sensing and health monitoring. However, their application is severely hampered by poor mechanical and self‐healing properties, environmental sensitivity, and limited sensory functions. Herein, inspired by the hierarchical structure and unique cross‐linking mechanism of hagfish slime, a self‐powered supramolecular hydrogel is hereby reported, featuring high stretchability (>2800% strain), ultrafast autonomous self‐healing capabilities (electrical healing time: 0.3 s), high self‐adhesiveness (adhesion strength: 6.92 kPa), injectability, ease of shaping, antimicrobial properties, and biocompatibility. It is observed that by embedding with the highly hygroscopic salt LiCl in supramolecular hydrogel, the hydrogel not only showed excellent electrical conductivity but also presented favorable anti‐freezing and water retention properties in extremely cold environments and natural settings. Given these attributes, the hydrogel served as a multifunctional durable self‐powered wearable device with high sensitivity (gauge factor: 3.68), fast response time (160 ms), low detection limit, and frequency sensitivity. Moreover, the multifunctional applicability of this supramolecular hydrogel is further demonstrated in long‐term cold environments sensing, remote medical communication, and underwater communication. Overall, these findings pave the way for the sustainable development of hydrogel‐based wearable devices that are self‐powered, durable, and offer high performance, environmental adaptability, and multi‐sensory capabilities.
Die Gestaltung der neuen Fuß‐ und Radwegebrücken in Gütersloh
Authors: Speth Martin , Vogelsang Wiebke
Published: January 2025

Die neuen Brücken an der Dalkepromenade in Gütersloh wurden in einem interdisziplinären Planungsprozess im Zusammenschluss von Tragwerksplanern und Landschaftsarchitekten entwickelt. Die Brücken überqueren die Dalke zweimal und verbinden den Grünzug über eine Bundesstraße hinweg. Die filigranen Stahlkonstruktionen vereinen Aspekte der landschaftsplanerischen und der tragwerksplanerischen Gestaltung und fügen sich dezent in den Grünraum ein. Tragwerk und Geländer bilden eine konstruktive Einheit und wirken zusammen mit der Gehwegplatte als Trogquerschnitt. Die Konstruktion aus wetterfestem Stahl deutet die bogen‐ und seilförmigen Tragstrukturen signifikant in den Geländerbrüstungen an. Das Erscheinungsbild der Brücken wird durch die Art der Konstruktion, die in einer für den Stahlbau typischen Technik gefertigt wurde, maßgebend geprägt.
Effects of Environmentally Relevant Concentrations of Roundup on Oxidative‐Nitrative Stress, Cellular Apoptosis, Prooxidant‐Antioxidant Homeostasis, Renin and CYP1A Expressions in Goldfish: Molecular Mechanisms Underlying Kidney Damage During Roundup Exposure
Authors: Noor Md Imran , Rahman Md Saydur
Published: January 2025

Roundup is one of the most widely used glyphosate‐based harmful herbicides in the United States as well as globally, which poses a severe risk for terrestrial and aquatic organisms. In order to identify the detrimental effects of Roundup exposure in aquatic organisms, we investigated the environmentally relevant concentrations of Roundup exposure (low dose: 0.5 μg/L and high dose: 5.0 μg/L for 2 weeks) on renin expression, oxidative‐nitrative stress biomarkers (e.g., 2,4‐dinitrophenol, DNP; and 3‐nitrotyrosine protein, NTP), prooxidant‐antioxidant enzymes expressions (e.g., superoxide dismutase, SOD; and catalase, CAT), cellular apoptosis, and cytochrome P450 1A (CYP1A) mRNA levels in the kidneys of goldfish (Carassius auratus). Histopathological and in situ TUNEL analyses showed widespread tissue disruption (e.g., bowman's capsule shrinkage, melanin pigment formation, etc.) and induced apoptotic nuclei in the kidneys of goldfish. Immunohistochemical and quantitative real‐time PCR (qRT‐PCR) analyses showed a significant (p < 0.05) increase in the expression of renin, DNP, NTP, SOD, and CAT, as well as CYP1A mRNA levels in the kidneys of fish exposed to Roundup. These results suggest that environmentally relevant concentrations of Roundup disrupt kidney architecture by inducing oxidative‐nitrative stress, cellular apoptosis, and change in osmoregulatory enzymes (i.e., renin) and prooxidant‐antioxidant systems in the kidneys of teleost fishes.
Prevalence and breed predisposition for spinal diseases in pugs and French bulldogs
Authors: Kerr Stephanie , Skovola Eleftheria , Maskell Lowri , De Decker Steven
Published: January 2025

Background

Pugs and French bulldogs (FBDs) are commonly presented for spinal disease. The aim of this study was to define the most common spinal diseases in both breeds.

Methods

This was a monocentric retrospective study including pugs and FBDs presenting with clinical signs consistent with spinal disease between 2010 and 2022. The information collected included signalment, onset of clinical signs, presence of spinal pain, progression of clinical signs, presence of urinary or faecal incontinence and neurological examination findings.

Results

A total of 439 FBDs with 448 diagnoses and 106 pugs with 125 diagnoses were included in the study. A total of 272 (62.0%) FBDs had an acute onset of clinical signs, and 79 pugs (74.5%) had a chronic onset. The most common disease in the FBD population was acute intervertebral disc extrusion, with 377 diagnoses (84.3%). The most common diagnoses among pugs were spinal arachnoid diverticula (SADs) (n = 30, 24.0%) and chronic intervertebral disc protrusion (n = 30, 24.0%).

Limitations

This study was limited by its retrospective nature, meaning that there was not a standardised diagnostic protocol.

Conclusion

This study confirms that FBDs and pugs are affected by different spinal disorders. While FBDs are mostly affected by acute intervertebral disc extrusions, pugs are more often affected by SADs and chronic intervertebral disc protrusions.
Detection of porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus type 2 in air emissions from grow‐finish barns
Authors: Schwartz Mark , Snow Casondra , Torremorell Montserrat , Rendahl Aaron , Pieters Maria
Published: January 2025

Background

Diagnosis of porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) infections can be accomplished using various sample types and testing methods.  The objective of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of using air emission samples to detect the onset of PRRSV type 2 infections in growing pigs.

Methods

Air emissions and oral fluid samples were collected from three grow‐finish barns, stocked with PRRSV‐negative pigs every 2 weeks for 14–20 weeks. All samples were assayed for PRRSV using RT‐PCR.

Results

In all barns, PRRSV was initially detected in both air emissions and oral fluid samples at the same sampling event. Compared with oral fluids, air emissions collected subsequently yielded higher cycle threshold values and showed a lower likelihood of being RT‐PCR positive.

Limitation

Sampling was limited to three grow‐finish barns.

Conclusion

Air emission samples from pig barns are a biosecure and non‐invasive sample type that is comparable to oral fluids for detection of the onset of PRRSV infection.
Overestimated role of inoculation bacteria‐algae ratio in wastewater treatment
Authors: Zhao Huangbo , Zhong Xin , Yao Zexin , Yang Zihua , Fan Jie
Published: January 2025

Microalgae‐bacteria systems present a promising approach for CO2 reduction in wastewater treatment. The effect of inoculation bacteria‐algae ratio on performance was investigated in this study. Different inoculation ratios (bacteria: algae 1:2, 1:1, 1:0.5, 1:0.25, 1:0.125, w/w) obtained comparable nutrients removal (p > 0.05). Over time, the bacteria‐algae ratios converged into two groups (3:1 and 4:1), demonstrating self‐adaption between bacteria and microalgae. Furthermore, principal component analysis (PCA) distinguished the performance of reactors into two groups, one group consisting of 1:2, 1:1, and 1:0.5 ratios and the other group consisting of 1:0.25 and 1:0.125 ratios, confirming their convergence in terms of nutrient removal and photosynthetic properties. The performance differed merely in sludge volume index (SVI) and nitrite accumulation, with 1:2 and 1:0.125 being the most prone to accumulate nitrite. This study implies that photobioreactor performance was not sensitive to inoculation ratio, whose role was overestimated, since microalgae and bacteria self‐assemble to form niches.

Practitioner Points

Effect of inoculation bacteria‐algae ratio on performance was overestimated

Photosynthesis and nutrients removal were grouped at different inoculation ratios

Different ratio showed similar nutrients removal efficiency

Self‐adaption made ratios of 1:2, 1:1, 1:0.5 converge into 3:1
Research on the Greening of Water Policy Needs to Move Beyond Supply and Demand‐Oriented Logics to Achieve Water Sustainability for All
Authors: Poupeau Franck , O'Neill Brian F.
Published: January 2025

This piece discusses recent research and current trends in water infrastructure. Specifically, we unpack how supply and demand logics inform policy and continue to do so in light of the 10th World Water Forum. We argue that the social structural transformations that have been needed remain lacking. Around the world, we observe a continued, if not renewed, emphasis on supposedly rational economic logics surrounding supply and demand. However, this has led to not reforms towards more ecologically minded engineering and governance, but rather it often appears that water infrastructure is emerging with a doubling down on a kind of old civil engineering emphasis, such as has been seen with the rise in new mega‐dam projects, desalination plants, and other “new water” endeavors. Yet, there are other examples that we point to that can be learned from, such as the Santa Cruz River restoration project in Southern Arizona and other measures in France and Bolivia that take a more participatory approach. Infrastructure issues must lead us to rethinking public and democratic action to distribute water in a manner that promotes social equity, and prevents massive resource destruction linked to abusive economic forces blind to collective interest and meaningful objectives, rather than a cynical “water for all” program. To secure the 6th Sustainable Development Goal, we regret that the 10th World Water Forum did not seem to pay enough attention to the greening of water policy through the sustainability of ecological infrastructures, nor to the economic and political conditions of their generalization.
Introduction to Gender, OIN Project, and Ocean Literacy
Authors: Ali Sareen , Poto Margherita Paola , Porrone Arianna
Published: January 2025

This chapter highlights the key role of the gender dimension in enhancing ocean literacy, focusing on the necessity to close the gender gap in education, research, and policymaking in the realm of ocean protection. It centres around the Ocean Incubator Network (OIN) project, which exemplifies how integrating gender considerations can significantly influence research and education outcomes as well as teamwork dynamics. After an analysis of the gendered impacts of climate change and the prevalent gender disparities in STEM and research sectors, the chapter underscores the challenges faced by women and the imperative for gender equality to foster effective and inclusive environmental policies. The core discussion then moves to the analysis of the OIN Project’s adoption of a gender-focused approach, emphasizing feminist research methodologies that empower women and girls to share their unique insights and experiences. This strategy not only enhances research and education but also cultivates inclusive spaces and paves the way for visionary leadership models that redefine and shape the future of ocean literacy.
Early Warning of Harmful Algal Blooms (HAB): A Low-Cost Integrated IoT Device with Spectrofluorometry and Automated Plankton Imaging
Authors: Orazi Gilles , Marot Marianne , Khelifi Iheb , Robert Léa , Le Gall Franck
Published: January 2025

This paper presents the development of a prototype automated device designed to monitor sea water quality and provide early warnings of potential harmful algal bloom (HAB) outbreaks. HABs pose a significant threat to aquaculture operations and marine ecosystems due to their ability to cause mass mortalities of fish and shellfish. The device integrates a low-cost custom spectrofluorometer capable of measuring absorption and fluorescence spectra of liquid samples, and an automated plankton imager adapted from an open-source design. Key aimed sensing parameters include nutrients, chlorophyll, water temperature, and phytoplankton presence. The affordability of the device is targeted by using low-cost components and integrating the spectrofluorometer and plankton imager into a single unit driven by an embedded computer. Machine learning algorithms are employed for real-time anomaly detection from the multivariate sensor data streams to provide early alerts of potential HAB events. Initial results demonstrate the device’s ability to detect low concentrations of fluorescent dyes and phytoplankton, and the effectiveness of an adaptive anomaly detection approach on real aquarium data.
Edge-Cloud Solution Based on FIWARE and Context Augmentation to Monitor Usages of Carpooling Car Parks
Authors: Orazi Gilles , Marot Marianne , Khelifi Iheb , Le Gall Franck , Richard Amara , Martzluff Yvan
Published: January 2025

Monitoring the usage and carbon impact of infrastructures such as carpooling car parks may be a challenge for local authorities. In this study, we address this issue by proposing an IoT solution that integrates both Edge processing and Cloud computing. Real-time continuous video AI processing automatically detects and stores information of car entries and exits. Then Cloud computing stores the anonymized data into a FIWARE information broker using ETSI’s NGSI-LD specification and employs query language to process and display useful statistics about carpark usage. To understand the carpooling user behaviors for each car park, as well as the various Key Performance Indicators and threshold values that direct our monitoring and alerting systems, we analyzed 1 year of data acquisition and performed in-situ surveys. Hereby, we present our results that reflect two different usages of carpooling (professional and personal) in terms of stay durations, car fidelity, car energy distributions, and carbon impact. This solution was deployed and tested on 3 car park lots, 2 of which have been permanently running for about two years.
Continuous renal replacement therapy with cytokine-adsorbing hemofilter to control resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta-related ischemia-reperfusion injury in a swine hemorrhagic shock model
Authors: Hayashi Yosuke , Izawa Yoshimitsu , Tanaka Yasutaka , Aoki Makoto , Matsumura Yosuke
Published: January 2025

Purpose

Resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta (REBOA) is beneficial for uncontrollable torso bleeding; however, prolonged REBOA causes ischemia-reperfusion injury. The purpose of this study is to examine the hypothesis that continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT) with a cytokine-adsorbing hemofilter would improve mortality due to hemorrhagic shock with REBOA-reperfusion injury by controlling metabolic acidosis, hyperkalemia, and hypercytokinemia.

Methods

Hemorrhagic shock with 40% blood loss was induced by phlebotomy in eight female swine. CRRT was performed on four swine after 90 min of REBOA, and the remaining four swine (control group) underwent the same procedures except for CRRT. We evaluated the survival time and trends of pH, HCO3−, potassium, lactate, circulatory inflammatory cytokines, and histopathology of the intestine for 180 min after REBOA deflation.

Results

Two swine in the CRRT group and one in the control group survived; no significant difference were observed in survival rates between the groups (p = 0.45). Furthermore, no significant differences in the transition of biomarkers and histopathological grades were observed between the groups. The CRRT group showed a tendency of increasing pH and HCO3−, decreasing lactate, lower elevation of potassium and cytokine levels (interleukin 6, CRRT: 1008.5 [770.4–1246.6], control; 1636.7 [1636.7–1636.7] pg/mL at t = 270), and lower intestine histopathological grade (jejunum, CRRT; 1.5 [1.3–1.8], control; 4.0 [4.0–4.0], ileum, CRRT; 1.5 [1.3–1.8], control; 4.0 [4.0–4.0] at t = 270) than the control group.

Conclusions

CRRT may mitigate acute-REBOA-related ischemia-reperfusion injury by controlling biomarkers. Further research is required to evaluate the impact on long-term mortality.
Fast and high precision control approach: polyline analysis and optimal NURBS interpolation for CNC machine tools
Authors: Kelekçi Ethem , Kizir Selcuk
Published: January 2025

In computer numerical control (CNC) operations, smooth motions generated using a parametric curve such as non-uniform rational B-splines (NURBS), Bezier curve, and B-spline are crucial for surface quality and machine control. A parametric curve is formed by micro-lines in CAD/CAM software; however, instead of micro-lines, polylines are used to define a parametric curve to prevent an increase in NC-file size. It is also possible to see situations where smooth motion is not required due to production requirements. In these cases, point-to-point motion is necessary instead of smooth motion. In this study, a polyline analysis algorithm is proposed to classify the normal line and polyline within the NC-file. A global tool path smoothing method is also applied, where the data points in a polyline group are converted into NURBS because CAD/CAM software commonly uses NURBS as a parametric curve for precision control of CNC machines. In addition, this study presents an optimal feedrate scheduling algorithm for the NURBS curve that generates an optimal feedrate profile for each segment by considering critical parameters such as segment length, initial and final velocity of each segment, maximum jerk, acceleration, and velocity. As the proposed algorithm is compatible with existing feedrate scheduling methods in which different feedrate values at the transition point of the NURBS segments are determined, this study provides an important contribution to the literature. The proposed methods in this study are verified by operating a spherical surface using industrial NC-files on a three-axis CNC-milling machine. The proposed methods demonstrate effective performance in experiments that require precision production operations.
Ultrasonic vibration-assisted scribing of sapphire: effects of ultrasonic vibration and tool geometry
Authors: Ansary Shah Rumman , Kabir Sarower , Nnokwe Cynthia , He Rui , Cong Weilong
Published: January 2025

In recent years, semiconductors, electronics, optics, and various other industries have seen a significant surge in the use of sapphire materials, driven by their exceptional mechanical and chemical properties. The machining of sapphire surfaces plays a crucial role in all these applications. However, due to sapphires’ exceptionally high hardness (Mohs hardness of 9, Vickers hardness of 2300) and brittleness, machining them often presents challenges such as microcracking and chipping of the workpiece, as well as significant tool wear, making sapphires difficult to cut. To enhance the machining efficiency and machined surface integrity, ultrasonic vibration-assisted (UV-A) machining of sapphire has already been studied, showing improved performance with lower cutting force, better surface finish, and extended tool life. Scribing tests using a single-diamond tool not only are an effective method to understand the material removal mechanism and deformation characteristics during such UV-A machining processes but also can be used as a potential process for separating IC chips from wafers. This paper presents a comprehensive study of the UV-A scribing process, aiming to develop an understanding of sapphire’s material removal mechanism under varying ultrasonic power levels and cutting tool geometries. In this experimental investigation, the effect of five different levels of ultrasonic power and three different cutting tool tip angles at various feeding depths on the scribe-induced features of the sapphire surface has been presented with a quantitative and qualitative comparison. The findings indicate that at feeding depths less than 6 μm, UV-A scribing with 40–80% ultrasonic power can reduce cutting force up to 50% and thus improve scribe quality. However, between feeding depths of 6 to 10 μm, this advantage of using ultrasonic vibration gradually diminishes. Additionally, UV-A scribing with a smaller tool tip angle (60°) was found to lower cutting force by 65% and improve scribe quality, effectively inhibiting residual stress formation and microcrack propagation. Furthermore, UV-A scribing also facilitated higher critical feeding depths at around 10 μm, compared to 6 μm in conventional scribing.
Design and realization of XOR, OR, and NAND light logic gates using GaAs heterostructure
Authors: Sonmez Feyza , Ardali Sukru , Arpapay Burcu , Serincan Ugur , Tiras Engin
Published: January 2025

This study introduces a novel structure based on a GaAs quantum well for implementing XOR, OR, and NAND light logic gates. This structure has unique advantages compared to classical p-n junction-based devices, including polarity-independent operation, radiation emission, and a more straightforward design. The suggested structure consists of two photoconductive devices and a logic gate device. When 850 nm light from the fiber optic cable illuminates the photoconductive device, the photoconductive device and the pulsed signal source are triggered simultaneously and supply the logic gate device, enabling it to perform the desired logic operation (XOR, OR, and NAND). Notably, at room temperature, the primary emission wavelength of these optical logic gate devices is 812 ± 1 nm. This design offers a compact, efficient, and versatile approach to light logic gates, with potential applications in optical computing and communication systems. Furthermore, the data transfer rate of these optical logic gates has been demonstrated to be comparable to that of electrical circuits currently used in technology.
Estimation and specification test for diffusion models with stochastic volatility
Authors: López-Pérez A. , Febrero-Bande M. , González-Manteiga W.
Published: January 2025

Given the importance of continuous-time stochastic volatility models to describe the dynamics of interest rates, we propose a goodness-of-fit test for the parametric form of the drift and diffusion functions, based on a marked empirical process of the residuals built with an adapted Kalman Filter estimation. The test statistics are constructed using a continuous functional (Kolmogorov–Smirnov and Crámer–von Mises) over the empirical processes. Both, the different estimation procedures (including other alternatives as for example methods based on Markov Chain Monte Carlo or Particle filters) and the new proposed tests are compared in different simulation studies. The tests are calibrated with a specific bootstrap method using the estimation of a discrete version of the diffusion model with stochastic volatility. Finally, an application of the procedures to real data is provided.
Prognostic and clinical heterogeneity of PD1 and PD-L1- immunohistochemical scores in endometrial cancers
Authors: Proppe L. , Jagomast T. , Beume S. , Köster F. , Bräutigam K. , Rody A. , Perner S. , Hemptenmacher F. , Ribbat-Idel J. , Hanker L. C.
Published: January 2025

Introduction

PD1/PD-L1 inhibition (ICi) has recently become a new standard of care for patients with advanced MMR-deficient (MMRd) endometrial cancers. Nevertheless, response to immunotherapy is more complex than the presence of a single biomarker and therefore it remains challenging to predict patients response to ICi beyond MMRd tumors. Elevated PD-L1 expression (CPS ≥ 1) is often used as a prognostic marker as well as a predictive biomarker of response to ICi in different tumor types. In a retrospective, patient derived study, we analyzed PD1- and PD-L1 staining and correlated the results of different scores to clinical data to evaluate the prognostic impact of these scores.

Materials and methods

Immunohistochemical analysis of the receptor PD1 and the receptor ligand PD-L1 were performed on TMAs of primary paraffin‑embedded tumor samples. All patients were treated for primary endometrial cancer in the Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Medical Center Schleswig–Holstein, Campus-Lübeck, Germany between the years 2006–2018. The evaluation and determination of the tumor proportion scoring (TPS), the combined positive score (CPS) and the immune cell scoring (IC) was automatically assessed semi-quantitatively, and results were correlated with clinicopathological characteristics and survival.

Results

130 samples were evaluable and 64% showed a positivity (IC > 0) for the receptor PD1 and 56% for the receptor ligand PD-L1. Patients with a PD1 IC Score ≥ 1 showed a significant longer disease-free survival of 140 months (95% confidence interval (CI): 124–158) compared to patients with a lower IC < 1 for PD1 of 89 months (95% confidence interval (CI): 69–110); p = 0.017). Furthermore, the disease-free survival for patients with a CPS ≥ 5 for PD1 was longer (153.7 months (95% confidence interval (CI): 134–173.6) vs. 98.6 months (95% confidence interval (CI): 83–114); p = 0.036). Additionally, a PD1 CPS ≥ 5 showed a better overall survival but the result was not statistically significant. No difference in survival was found between patients with PD-L1 higher or lower than CPS 5.

Conclusion

In this study we pointed out that there are significant clinical differences among several immunohistochemical scoring systems. In our trial, a PD1-positivity with CPS ≥ 5 and IC ≥ 1 were significantly associated to a better disease-free survival while there was no association with TPS. The PD1-IC scoring was associated with MMRd while the TPS scoring was not. Therefore, PD1-IC could be more appropriate for endometrial carcinomas compared to TPS and could also add prognostic information beside the more established PD-L1-staining. Further prospective studies are needed for a validation of these scores in combination with other biomarkers.
Unleashing creativity in people with Parkinson’s disease: a pilot study of a co-designed creative arts therapy
Authors: Spee Blanca T. M. , de Vries Nienke M. , Zeggio Sara , Plijnaer Marjoke , Koksma Jan-Jurjen , Duits Annelien A. , Stap Thieme , Pasman Gert , Haeyen Suzanne , Darweesh Sirwan , Crone Julia , Bloem Bastiaan R. , Pelowski Matthew
Published: January 2025

Background

Conventional medical management, while essential, cannot address all multifaceted consequences of Parkinson’s disease (PD). This pilot study explores the potential of a co-designed creative arts therapy on health-related quality of life, well-being, and pertinent non-motor symptoms.

Methods

We conducted an exploratory pilot study with a pre-post design using validated questionnaires. Eight individuals with PD participated in the program. The investigated intervention was a 10-week creative arts therapy with weekly 90–120-min sessions, guided by three creative therapists. Participants were allowed to autonomously select from multiple creative media based on their personal preferences. Explored co-primary outcomes included health-related quality of life (PDQ-39), well-being (ICECAP-A), anxiety/depression (HADS), executive functioning (BRIEF-A), resilience/mental flexibility (FIT-60), and self-efficacy (GSES). We used paired sample t tests for pre–post analysis of the co-primary outcomes and Wilcoxon signed-rank tests for PDQ-39 sub-scores. We also included aesthetic responsiveness (AReA) and healthcare consumption (IMCQ adapted for PD) questionnaires reported as descriptive statistics.

Results

The results showed a significant reduction in anxiety and an increase in well-being. We also observed a slight improvement in cognitive functioning. Finally, we noted a reduction in healthcare consumption (fewer visits at neurologists, specialized PD nurses, and allied healthcare professionals).

Conclusion

These findings cautiously suggest that our co-designed, multi-media creative arts therapy has the potential to increase well-being and reduce anxiety, while reducing healthcare consumption. These preliminary findings support the need for a larger, randomized controlled trial to explore the therapeutic potential of creative arts therapy in PD care.
Cancer in multiple sclerosis patients following prolonged exposure to disease-modifying therapies (DMTs): a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Giannopapas Vasileios , Smyrni Vassiliki , Kitsos Dimitrios K. , Stefanou Maria Ioanna , Theodorou Aikaterini , Tzartos John S. , Tsivgoulis Georgios , Giannopoulos Sotirios
Published: January 2025

Introduction

The current literature on the prevalence and potential association between disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) and cancer risk in the MS population has yielded mixed findings.

Methods

This study aimed to estimate cancer prevalence and cancer risk in patients with MS (PwMS) under prolonged DMT exposure. Database search include: MEDLINE PUBMED, SCOPUS, and Google Scholar.

Results

A total of 13 studies involving 333,779 PwMS were included, reporting cancer events over periods ranging from 6 to 32 years. The aggregated pooled prevalence of cancer events in MS patients receiving disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) was 3.8% (95% CI 2.6, 5.2%), with substantial heterogeneity (I
2 = 99.7%, p = 0). Two studies compared cancer events in MS patients who received DMTs versus those who did not. The relative risk of cancer associated with DMTs was 0.8 (95% CI 0.59–1.31, I
2 = 93.6%, p = 0.53), indicating no significant increase in cancer risk due to DMTs. Breast and basal cell carcinomas had a high prevalence (18.4% and 11.3, respectively) in PwMS under DMTs.

Conclusion

This study reports a 3.8% pooled prevalence of cancer in PwMS receiving DMTs. The findings of this study suggest that DMTs alone do not increase cancer risk in PwMS. Breast cancer and basal cell carcinoma had the highest prevalence among the different types of cancer.
A non-native pathogen meets a native host: Austropuccinia psidii infection reduces photosynthesis and alters non-structural carbohydrates in seedlings of Metrosideros excelsa
Authors: Nguyen Hoa , Bellingham Peter J. , Padamsee Mahajabeen , Schwendenmann Luitgard
Published: January 2025

Key message

Austropuccinia psidii infection and increase in diseased leaf area resulted in a reduction of photosynthesis, an upregulation of stomatal conductance, and an increase in leaf starch and sucrose content.

Austropuccinia psidii is a biotrophic rust pathogen that causes myrtle rust, affecting over 480 species in the Myrtaceae family. The development of chlorotic and necrotic leaf areas following A. psidii infection has been shown to affect leaf gas exchange. In this study, we quantified photosynthesis, stomatal conductance, and non-structural carbohydrates in seedlings of a long-lived tree, Metrosideros excelsa (pōhutukawa), following A. psidii infection in a glasshouse experiment (infected and control seedlings) conducted over 20 weeks. The diseased leaf area rose from 8% in week 2 to 95% in week 20 after A. psidii inoculation. The photosynthetic rate declined by over 90% within 6 weeks after inoculation and was associated with biochemical damage in CO2 fixation. Stomatal conductance decreased over the first 4 weeks after inoculation and then increased. An increase in lesions and necrotic cells may inhibit stomatal regulation. Starch content was threefold higher in infected than control leaves 20 weeks after inoculation. Increased starch accumulation in the infected leaf area could be due to reduced export of newly fixed carbon from the infected leaves. Meanwhile, glucose + fructose content was 31% lower in infected leaves at the experiment’s end, likely because of leaf necrosis. If the pathogen-induced damage and loss of leaves, reduction in photosynthesis and changes in non-structural carbohydrates shown in this study also occur in wild M. excelsa seedlings and reduces their biomass, this may in turn reduce their competitive ability in the primary successions that they currently often dominate.
Phylogenetic analysis and molecular structure of NS1 proteins of porcine parvovirus 5 isolates from Mexico
Authors: Vargas-Ruiz Alejandro , Araiza-Hernández Diana Michele , González-Díaz Francisco Rodolfo , Marín-Flamand Ernesto , Sánchez Betancourt José Ivan , Sánchez-Mendoza Ana Elvia , García-Camacho Lucia Angélica
Published: January 2025

Porcine parvovirus 5 (PPV5) is an unclassified member of the family Parvoviridae with no reported pathogenicity, although it is associated with multisystemic, reproductive, and respiratory diseases. Its open reading frame 1 (ORF1) encodes non-structural protein 1 (NS1), which is predicted to have helicase activity that is essential for viral replication. This protein contains a C-motif with an invariant asparagine residue that forms the core of the enzyme's active site, in conjunction with the Walker A and B motifs. The aim of this study was the phylogenetic and molecular characterization of the NS1 of PPV5 through nested PCR and sequencing of three Mexican PPV5-positive samples. Subsequently, a phylogenetic tree, identity matrices of nucleotide and amino acid sequences, and a three-dimensional model of NS1 were constructed. The amplified sequences, which represented 96.9% of the PPV5 ORF1, occupied the same branch in the phylogenetic tree and exhibited the most nucleotide sequence similarity to the corresponding region of PPV4 and the most amino acid sequence similarity to the NS1 proteins of PPV4 and PPV6. A three-dimensional model of NS1 displayed a C-motif characteristic of superfamily 3 (SF3) helicases. The phylogenetic proximity of PPV5 to PPV4 and PPV6 suggests that it may belong to the genus Copiparvovirus. Further studies on helicases from viruses infecting domestic animals may be useful in developing antiviral drugs for both human and veterinary medicine.
Kollaborative Forschung und Patientenregister: Anforderungen und Perspektiven für Grundlagenforscher
Authors: Jung Georg , Lattmann Thomas , Leinweber Maria-Elisabeth , Attigah Nicolas , Hakimi Maani
Published: January 2025

Patientenregister sind ein zentrales Instrument der medizinischen Versorgungsforschung. Die erhobenen Daten dienen der Darstellung der Versorgungsrealität, unterstützen die Entwicklung evidenzbasierter Leitlinien und fördern die Translation von Forschungsergebnissen in die klinische Praxis.

Diese Arbeit betont die Bedeutung kollaborativer Forschungsansätze durch Patientenregister mit Fokus auf die Einhaltung komplexer regulatorischer Rahmenbedingungen.

Methodische Ansätze wie „team science“ und die Einhaltung von Qualitätsprinzipien der Dateninfrastruktur und Datenintegrität (FAIR und ALCOAplus) sind Werkzeuge zur Optimierung der Zusammenarbeit zwischen Einrichtungen verschiedener Versorgungsstufen bzw. der Qualität eines Patientenregisters.

Die Einhaltung ethischer, rechtlicher und regulatorischer Anforderungen wie der DSGVO und medizinischer Leitlinien zum Betrieb von Patientenregistern ist für die erfolgreiche Auswertung solcher Registerdaten unerlässlich.

Diese Arbeit soll zeigen, dass die Translation in diverse Bereiche der akademischen Medizin möglich ist und durch die Nutzung von Registerdaten erleichtert werden kann. Patientenregister schlagen eine Brücke zwischen Versorgungsrealität und Forschung und tragen darüber hinaus zur Verbesserung der medizinischen Ausbildung bei.