bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Simultaneous Four-site Restoration of Bilateral Scleromalacia Using Autologous Tragal Perichondrium and Preserved Sclera
Authors: Nam Yoonsoo , Lee Seung Hyeun , Kim Kyoung Woo
Published: January 2025

Purpose: We report a case of bilateral nasal and temporal four-site scleromalacia following cosmetic conjunctivectomy, successfully managed with simultaneous restoration surgery at all four sites using autologous tragal perichondrium and preserved scleral graft.Case summary: A 56-year-old woman who underwent cosmetic conjunctivectomy on both eyes 15 years earlier, presented with intermittent eye pain. Examination revealed scleromalacia with calcium plaques in all four nasal and temporal scleral areas. The most extensive avascular area was in the nasal region of the right eye, and the most prominent uveal exposure was in the nasal area of the left eye. Considering the lesion and exposure sizes of the avascular zone and uvea exposure, preserved sclera was transplanted to the temporal and nasal areas of the right eye, while autologous tragal perichondrium was transplanted to the nasal area of the left eye. Tenon's capsule vessels were fixed with pedicle flaps in all four surgical areas for vascularization. Frozen amniotic membrane was transplanted in the nasal area of the left eye, where the conjunctival defect was substantial, and in the lateral area of the left eye, where no graft was used. The conjunctival epithelium was closed using autologous conjunctival flaps in all four areas. Post-surgery, successful engraftment and vascularization of the graft materials were observed in both eyes.Conclusions: Even with multiple areas of scleromalacia in both eyes, successful results can be achieved during simultaneous surgery if an appropriate graft material is selected and the surgery is performed utilizing principles of tissue restoration.
A Recurrent Nocardial Corneal Ulcer
Authors: Chung Han-Young , Lee Tae-Eun , You In-Cheon
Published: January 2025

Purpose: To present a case of recurrent Nocardia keratitis following the use of topical steroids.Case summary: A 57-year-old man presented with decreased visual acuity and conjunctival injection in the right eye which began 15 days prior. Slit-lamp examination revealed epithelial defects smaller than the circular infiltrate and empirical topical treatment was initiated. Since the corneal lesion improved with a therapeutic contact lens and topical antibiotics, a steroid eye drop was added. After 7 days, the corneal infiltrate worsened in a wreath-like pattern with a positive result on a KOH (potassium hydroxide) smear, and antifungal eye drops were started. However, Nocardia species was confirmed on the 9th day of culture. While complete epithelial regeneration was achieved after 10 days using amikacin eye drops, steroid eye drops were reused to reduce the corneal haze. Twenty days later, the corneal infiltrate and epithelial defects reappeared adjacent to the initial opacity, and a culture confirmed Nocardia. Gradual improvement was achieved with amikacin eye drops and oral Septrin. Ultimately, a combination of moxifloxacin, tobramycin, and bromfenac eye drops was tapered over several months, resulting in healing with mild opacity.Conclusions: Nocardia keratitis commonly arises from trauma involving soil, progresses slowly, and is often misdiagnosed as a fungal infection. While amikacin eye drops proved effective, prolonged topical treatment is essential. Early steroid use should be considered cautiously, as it may lead to recurrence and worsening of the corneal lesion.
Resisting Resistance: Towards Unravelling the Secrets of Cellular Immunotherapy
Authors:   , van Vliet Esmée Julia
Published: January 2025

The field of immune-oncology, and the development of a wide range of immunotherapy products that stemmed from it, has dramatically transformed the survival chances for many cancer patients. Nonetheless, there is a large share of patients that does not yet benefit from this success, either due to having difficult to target (solid) tumour types, or through the development of resistance during treatment. Due to the complexity of both cancer and the nature of immunotherapy products, there is a great need to develop novel methods that will allow us to study immune-cancer interactions in a simplified, controlled setting.
In this thesis work, we have described optimal protocols to derive breast cancer organoid models (Chapter 2), which have further been used to study engineered immune cell product behaviour in the context of immune-organoid co-cultures (Chapter 4), and furthermore for studying processes underlying sensitivity and resistance to these cellular immunotherapy products (Chapter 5). Additionally, we have provided a thorough overview on the contributions of the field of 3D imaging to our understanding of cancer biology and treatment response (Chapter 3).
Most excitingly, we have developed several novel tools to study both immunotherapy products and the tumours they target in unprecedented detail. With our imaging method and associated computational analysis platform called BEHAV3D (Chapter 4), we have provided a revolutionary method to study the behaviour of engineered immune cells, revealing that these products contain a mixture of cells with different behaviours, complex interactions, and (serial) killing capacities. With our newly developed method and analysis pipeline to detangle tumour heterogeneity called FUN-CLON (Chapter 5), we were able to explore the extensive landscape of factors influencing response to engineered T cell therapy, revealing several recurring profiles of responding and not responding cell states and characteristics. Together, these tools offer exciting opportunities for both preclinical and clinical applications, with the aim of further guiding cellular immunotherapy product development and improving patient outcomes.
Senses of justice after managed retreat in New York city
Authors: Olivotto Veronica , Wijsman Katinka , McPhearson Timon
Published: January 2025

Sea level rise and increasing frequency and intensity of coastal storms are driving the need for managed retreat and relocation for at risk coastal populations. Managed retreat through voluntary buyouts is typically studied either from the perspective of the buyouts’ process or focused on those who leave, but little attention is given to who and what is left behind. How do buyouts impact those staying behind, and their senses of justice? We examine this question for the low-lying majority-minority neighborhood of Edgemere, Queens in New York City where Superstorm Sandy buyouts and a long history of failed urban renewal have led to large amounts of vacant land. This study analyzes ongoing and intersectional conditi ons of residents’ flood vulnerability. It grounds this analysis in 18 in-depth interviews with local residents capturing their perceptions of vacant land and its reuse, flood risk and neighborhood needs. The analysis is complemented with field observations, semi-structured interviews with city agencies involved in resilience planning initiatives and analysis of historical urban planning and open space plans in this area. Findings reveal the importance of elevating residents’ understanding of place to inform possible land uses after retreat in historically disinvested neighborhoods. Furthermore, they reveal both the injustices of and attachments to living in flood prone, disenfranchised coastal neighborhoods. They also show how these experiences entangle with the citywide housing crisis. In conclusion, if retreat and post-buyout efforts aspire to be just, they need to center how past and present contextual injustice shapes the relationships between distributive and recognitional injustice.
Analysis of Radio Science Data from the KaT Instrument of the 3GM Experiment During JUICE’s Early Cruise Phase
Authors: Cappuccio Paolo , Sesta Andrea , Di Benedetto Mauro , Durante Daniele , De Filippis Umberto , di Stefano Ivan , Iess Luciano , Mackenzie Ruaraidh , Godard Bernard
Published: January 2025

The JUpiter Icy Moon Explorer (JUICE) mission, launched on 14 April 2023, aims to explore Jupiter and its Galilean moons, with arrival in the Jovian system planned for mid-2031. One of the scientific investigations is the Geodesy and Geophysics of Jupiter and the Galilean Moons (3GM) radio science experiment, designed to study the interior structures of Europa, Callisto, and Ganymede and the atmospheres of Jupiter and the Galilean moons. The 3GM experiment employs a Ka-band Transponder (KaT) to enable two-way coherent range and Doppler measurements used for the gravity experiment and an Ultra Stable Oscillator (USO) for one-way downlink occultation experiments. This paper analyzes KaT data collected at the ESA/ESTRACK ground station in Malargüe, Argentina, during the Near-Earth Commissioning Phase (NECP) in May 2023 and the first in-cruise payload checkout (PC01) in January 2024. The radiometric data were fitted using both NASA’s Mission Analysis, Operations, and Navigation Toolkit Environment (MONTE) and ESA’s General Orbit Determination and Optimization Toolkit (GODOT) software. The comparison of the orbital solutions showed an excellent agreement. In addition, the Doppler and range residuals allowed a preliminary assessment of the quality of the radiometric measurements. During the NECP pass, the radio link data showed a range-rate noise of 0.012 mm/s at 1000 s integration time, while the root mean square of the range residuals sampled at 1 s was 8.4 mm. During the first payload checkout, the signal power at the KaT input closely matched the value expected at Jupiter, due to a specific ground station setup. This provided early indications of the 3GM’s performance during the Jovian phase. In this test, the accuracy of range data at an integration time of 1s, particularly sensitive to the link signal-to-noise ratio, degraded to 13.6 cm, whilst the range-rate accuracy turned out to be better than 0.003 mm/s at 1000 s, thanks to the accurate tropospheric delay calibration system (TDCS) available at the Malargue station (inactive during NECP).
The Development Aid for the Agricultural Sector of African, Caribbean and Pacific Countries—Determinants and Allocation
Authors: Smolińska-Bryza Kinga , Kiryluk-Dryjska Ewa
Published: January 2025

We propose a method for allocating Official Development Assistance (ODA) to the agricultural sector of African Caribbean and Pacific (ACP) countries based on objectively measured indicators of the development of the economies determined for the period of 2010–2022. These indicators are calculated from statistical data using factor analysis. They are then implemented in a linear programming model to allocate the budget for ACP agriculture. The results show that the proposed approach allocates funds according to the assumed logic, supporting countries in the low and very low development classes. The research conducted can contribute to the discussion on the allocation of development support to the agricultural sector by potential donors while analyzing different assumptions. This study can also serve as a prelude to researching the phenomenon of increasing efficiency in the agricultural sector in the context of potential economic development paths for the analyzed countries.
Modified SWAT Model for Agricultural Watershed in Karst Area of Southwest China
Authors: Dai Junfeng , Pan Linyan , Deng Yan , Wan Zupeng , Xia Rui
Published: January 2025

The Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) model is extensively used globally for hydrological and water quality assessments but encounters challenges in karst regions due to their complex surface and groundwater hydrological environments. This study aims to refine the delineation of hydrological response units within the SWAT model by combining geomorphological classification and to enhance the model with an epikarst zone hydrological process module, exploring the accuracy improvement of SWAT model simulations in karst regions of Southwest China. Compared with the simulation results of the original SWAT model, we simulated runoff and nutrient concentrations in the Mudong watershed from January 2017 to December 2021 using the improved SWAT model. The simulation results indicated that the modified SWAT model responded more rapidly to precipitation events, particularly in bare karst landform, aligning more closely with the actual hydrological processes in Southwest China’s karst regions. In terms of the predictive accuracy for monthly loads of total nitrogen (TN) and total phosphorus (TP), the coefficient of determination (R2) value of the modified model increased by 10.3% and 9.7%, respectively, and the Nash–Sutcliffe efficiency coefficient (NSE) increased by 11.3% and 9.9%, respectively. The modified SWAT model improves prediction accuracy in karst areas and holds significant practical value for guiding non-point source pollution control in agricultural watersheds.
Monitoring the Maize Canopy Chlorophyll Content Using Discrete Wavelet Transform Combined with RGB Feature Fusion
Authors: Li Wenfeng , Pan Kun , Huang Yue , Fu Guodong , Liu Wenrong , He Jizhong , Xiao Weihua , Fu Yi , Guo Jin
Published: January 2025

To evaluate the accuracy of Discrete Wavelet Transform (DWT) in monitoring the chlorophyll (CHL) content of maize canopies based on RGB images, a field experiment was conducted in 2023. Images of maize canopies during the jointing, tasseling, and grouting stages were captured using unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) remote sensing to extract color, texture, and wavelet features and to construct a color and texture feature dataset and a fusion of wavelet, color, and texture feature datasets. Backpropagation neural network (BP), Stacked Ensemble Learning (SEL), and Gradient Boosting Decision Tree (GBDT) models were employed to develop CHL monitoring models for the maize canopy. The performance of these models was evaluated by comparing their predictions with measured CHL data. The results indicate that the dataset integrating wavelet features achieved higher monitoring accuracy compared to the color and texture feature dataset. Specifically, for the integrated dataset, the BP model achieved an R2 value of 0.728, an RMSE of 3.911, and an NRMSE of 15.24%; the SEL model achieved an R2 value of 0.792, an RMSE of 3.319, and an NRMSE of 15.34%; and the GBDT model achieved an R2 value of 0.756, an RMSE of 3.730, and an NRMSE of 15.45%. Among these, the SEL model exhibited the highest monitoring accuracy. This study provides a fast and reliable method for monitoring maize growth in field conditions. Future research could incorporate cross-validation with hyperspectral and thermal infrared sensors to further enhance model reliability and expand its applicability.
Effects of Bile Acids on Growth Performance, Hepatopancreatic Antioxidant Capacity, Intestinal Immune-Related Gene Expression, and Gut Microbiota of Penaeus vannamei
Authors: Zhao Yun , Chen Duanduan , Wang Hui
Published: January 2025

This study aimed to examine the impact of varying concentrations of bile acids (BA) added to the feed on several aspects of Penaeus vannamei. The purity of BA was 25.29%, and its main components were 5.74% chenodeoxycholic acid, 6.27% allocholic acid, 3.20% cholic acid, 5.79% hyodeoxycholic acid, and 2.31% hyocholic acid. The experiment was designed with four groups: CT, BA1, BA2, and BA3, where BA were added to the shrimp basal diet at concentrations of 0.0 mg/kg, 0.1 mg/kg, 1.0 mg/kg, and 10.0 mg/kg, respectively. After 60 days of farming P. vannamei (initial body weight: 1.21 ± 0.05 g), the results showed that BA supplementation significantly improved growth performance, and BA2 group was the most significant, which increased the final weight (FBW) by 18.6%, weight gain rate (WGR) by 19.5%, and survival rate (SR) by 5.8% compared with the CT group (p < 0.05). Additionally, the activities of trypsin and lipase in gut tissue were significantly increased (p < 0.05). Furthermore, BA supplementation increased the activity of antioxidant-related enzymes in the hepatopancreas and enhanced the mRNA expression levels of gut-associated immune genes. In addition, the supplementation of 0.1 mg/kg BA significantly altered the gut microbial composition, reducing the proportion of harmful Proteobacteria while enhancing the relative abundance of beneficial microorganisms such as Firmicutes and Bacteroides. In conclusion, 1.0 mg/kg and 10.0 mg/kg BA supplementation significantly improved the growth performance, digestive capacity, and antioxidant capacity of shrimp, among which 1.0 mg/kg supplementation had the most significant effect and improved the intestinal microbial composition of shrimp.
Pharmacodynamic Profiling of Amoxicillin: Targeting Multidrug-Resistant Gram-Positive Pathogens Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus pseudintermedius in Canine Clinical Isolates
Authors: Sayem Syed Al Jawad , Lee Ga-Yeong , Abbas Muhammad Aleem , Park Seung-Chun , Lee Seung-Jin
Published: January 2025

The rising threat of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a global concern in both human and veterinary medicine, with multidrug-resistant (MDR) pathogens such as Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus pseudintermedius presenting significant challenges. Background/Objectives: This study evaluates the effectiveness of amoxicillin against these MDR pathogens in canine isolates using pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic parameters. Methods: Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC), and mutation prevention concentration (MPC) were assessed. Additionally, time-kill assays and post-antibiotic effect (PAE) assessments were performed. Epidemiological cutoff (ECOFF) values were established for both species to guide therapy. Results: S. aureus had a higher resistance rate (35.89%) than S. pseudintermedius (15.27%), with MIC50 values of 0.50 μg/mL and 0.25 μg/mL, respectively. The MPC analysis revealed that S. pseudintermedius required higher antibiotic concentrations (16.11 μg/mL) to prevent mutations compared to S. aureus (2.20 μg/mL). Time-kill assays indicated that higher amoxicillin dosages caused faster bacterial reduction. The PAE analysis showed extended post-treatment bacterial suppression at elevated doses, particularly against S. aureus. Conclusions: Species-specific amoxicillin dosing strategies are necessary due to differing resistance and susceptibility profiles between S. aureus and S. pseudintermedius. High-dose amoxicillin therapy is recommended to achieve optimal therapeutic outcomes for resistant SA, while slightly adjusted dosing can manage S. pseudintermedius infections. These findings provide essential insights for veterinary antimicrobial stewardship, underscoring the need for tailored therapeutic approaches to minimize AMR development while ensuring effective infection control.
A Review of Worldwide Strategies for Promoting High-Temperature Heat Pumps
Authors: Adamo Angela , Martín Helena , Hoz Jordi de la , Rubio Joan
Published: January 2025

This paper provides a comprehensive overview of policies and incentives aimed at promoting high-temperature heat pumps (HTHPs) globally. It examines the various strategies employed by different countries to encourage the adoption of HTHPs, highlighting both the opportunities and the barriers encountered in these efforts. The analysis includes a review of financial incentives, regulatory measures, and technological initiatives designed to facilitate the integration of HTHPs into industrial applications. By describing different approaches across regions, this paper identifies best practices and potential pitfalls, offering a nuanced understanding of how different policy frameworks impact the deployment of HTHPs. Additionally, this paper explores the technological challenges that influence the effectiveness of these policies. The findings underscore the critical role of supportive policies in overcoming technical and economic barriers, ultimately fostering the widespread use of HTHPs as a viable solution for reducing industrial emissions and advancing global decarbonization goals. Furthermore, utilizing electricity from renewable energy sources (RESs), HTHPs can also contribute to grid stability by reducing electricity peaks. This aspect enhances the integration of RESs into the energy mix, creating a more resilient grid and optimizing energy consumption patterns in industrial applications.
Versatile High-Throughput Platform for Focused Ultrasound In Vitro Application
Authors: Tretbar Steffen H. , Fournelle Marc , Degel Christian , Becker Franz-Josef , Weber Peter , Therre-Mohr Sarah , Bost Wolfgang , Landgraf Lisa , Melzer Andreas
Published: January 2025

For the more efficient application of ultrasound in future therapies, fundamental research is needed on the mode of action of ultrasound on biological systems using therapeutic frequencies. To address this need, a new versatile high-throughput platform for focused ultrasound in vitro application was designed, developed, and characterized. The applicator was aligned with the dimensions of a 96-well plate and frequencies commonly used in the therapeutic ultrasound range (0.5–2.0 MHz). Two different platform configurations were developed: (a) a low-intensity version with 96 individual transducers allowing dry coupling of the well plate; and (b) a high-intensity version with water cooling, supporting parallel sonication of 32 out of 96 wells. The platforms were characterized by performing an analysis of the homogeneity of the sound pressure and intensity, the impact of filled volume per well, the cross-coupling effect between the wells, and the influence of the well plate. The low-intensity design delivers pressure levels up to 605 kPa inside the well with maximum ISPPA values between 0.78 and 12.38 W/cm2. In contrast, the high-intensity system achieves pressures up to 1460 kPa and a maximum ISPPA of 72 W/cm2 inside the wells. The successfully developed high-throughput platform supports parallelized sonication in standard, well-plate formats and is suitable for focused ultrasound applications in vitro.
Study on the Ablation Behavior of High-Intensity Lasers in Vacuum
Authors: Gao Heyan , Wang Ying , Ye Jifei , Du Bangdeng , Wang Diankai , Li Sai , Cui Qianqian , Wang Sibo , Zhang Tengfei
Published: January 2025

Laser ablation has been extensively studied by researchers due to its high precision, high efficiency processing capabilities, and wide range of application potentials. However, in a vacuum environment, due to the complexity of experimental conditions, specific application scenarios, and interdisciplinary interferences, more in-depth research on the ablation behavior of high-intensity lasers in vacuum is still insufficient. In response to such issues, experiments were conducted on titanium alloy perforation using a nanosecond laser in a vacuum environment. The variations in ablation depth and volume as functions of pulse energy, pulse number, and defocus were investigated. Both the depth and volume ablation efficiencies were calculated, and the three-dimensional morphology of the ablation holes was captured. Additionally, the ablation plume was observed to support the research conclusions. The results indicate that within the number of high-intensity laser pulses, the ablation depth per pulse can be increased by more than four times, and the average ablation volume per pulse can reach 0.97 µm3/µJ. The enhanced sputtering of molten material during the multi-pulse laser ablation process in a vacuum environment is identified as the primary factor contributing to the increased ablation efficiency. With the advancement of science and technology and the growing demand for applications, this research is crucial for the further development of fields such as space exploration and technology, advanced manufacturing technology, and basic scientific research.
Evolution of the Radiation Shielding, Optical, and Luminescence Properties of PbO2-SiO2 Glass Systems and the Influence of Rare Earth Elements (Eu, Ce, Yb)
Authors: Zagrai Mioara , Suciu Ramona-Crina , Gavrea Radu Cristian , Rednic Vasile
Published: January 2025

This study explores the physical, radiation shielding, optical, and photoluminescent properties of PbO2-SiO2-based glass systems. Traditional radiation shielding materials, like lead and concrete, face challenges due to toxicity and weight. Glass materials provide an alternative, offering transparency and efficiency. Four glass systems were analyzed: PbO2-SiO2 (PS), PbO2-SiO2-CeO2 (PSC), PbO2-SiO2-Eu2O3 (PSE), and PbO2-SiO2-Yb2O3 (PSY). The results show that rare earth elements densify the glass network, thereby enhancing radiation attenuation properties, quantified through parameters like the linear attenuation coefficient (μ), the half-value layer (HVL), and the mean free path (MFP). The PSY system exhibited the best shielding properties, demonstrating its potential for use in gamma ray shielding. Samples PS0–PS3 revealed semiconducting behavior and may be considered a promising host matrix for solar cells and w-LED applications.
Body Composition Changes and Associations in Infants and Mothers During the First Year: Insights from a Pilot Study of the Baby-bod Project
Authors: Herath Manoja P. , Ahuja Kiran D. K. , Beckett Jeffrey M. , Jayasinghe Sisitha , Byrne Nuala M. , Hills Andrew P.
Published: January 2025

Background: The period following childbirth is marked by dynamic changes in maternal physiology and the growth trajectory of the newborn. We aimed to elucidate the changes and associations in body composition of infants and their mothers during the first year postpartum. Methods: This pilot study assessed infant body composition using the PEA POD air displacement plethysmography (ADP) system (birth–6 months) and deuterium dilution (9–12 months). Maternal body composition was assessed using the BOD POD ADP system at 12 months postpartum. Mothers were grouped by prepregnancy body mass index (BMI) <25 kg/m2 (lean) or ≥25 kg/m2 (overweight/obese: OW/OB), and data were analysed using linear regression. Results: Twenty-nine infant–mother pairs were assessed. Infant percent fat mass (%FM) increased from birth to 6 months (9.3% vs. 24.2%; p < 0.001) and then gradually declined. At birth and 3 months, %FM was significantly higher in infants born to OW/OB mothers compared to their lean counterparts. A significant positive association (β = 0.3; p = 0.040) was observed between maternal %FM and infant %FM at 1 year post-delivery after controlling for the mother’s prepregnancy BMI. Conclusions: Infants born to OW/OB mothers have increased %FM at birth and 3 months, which may have consequences for their health throughout childhood and into adulthood. Moreover, maternal prepregnancy BMI is a significant predictor of maternal postpartum weight status and body composition and impacts the relationship between maternal and infant body composition at 12 months postpartum. While the findings of our pilot study underscore the importance of encouraging women of childbearing age to maintain a healthy BMI before conception, further research is needed to substantiate these results.
Navigating Global Environmental Challenges: Disciplinarity, Transdisciplinarity, and the Emergence of Mega-Expertise
Authors: Lidskog Rolf
Published: January 2025

This study explores the nature and significance of a crucial form of global environmental expertise: that which relates to conducting global environmental assessments with the aim of influencing decision-making. Drawing on the theory of expertise, which conceptualizes expertise as a social position defined by epistemic practice, this study focuses on expertise in the context of global environmental challenges—particularly relating to climate change and the IPCC—highlighting the expertise required to address this kind of complex and multifaceted issue. This type of expertise allows for a synthesis of the current state of environmental challenges, the proposal of options for action, and communication of these findings to decision-makers and society at large. This expertise shapes knowledge that is much broader than a single disciplinary field, encompassing both ecological and social dynamics, and allows for the development of recommendations for action. This study finds that such expertise embodies a distinct epistemic practice with four key characteristics that distinguish it from more narrowly defined forms of expertise and introduces the term “mega-expertise” to capture the character and position of this kind of expertise. This study concludes by reflecting on the broader implications of this form of expertise, considering its relationship to more traditional, disciplinary scientific expertise.
Mammal Diversity on Conservation Islands in Protected Areas in Oaxaca, Mexico
Authors: Padilla Eugenio , Galindo-Aguilar Rosa Elena , Briones-Salas Miguel
Published: January 2025

Protected sites managed by indigenous people have been used for decades to conserve natural resources. These sites can be considered “conservation islands” and can maintain high biodiversity. This study explores the diversity and structure of medium and large mammals in (1) four protected natural areas in Oaxaca, Mexico, and (2) two different conservation strategies: one protected natural area (PNA) and three Voluntary Conservation Areas (VCAs). Data from 30 camera traps installed by community monitoring between 2013 and 2019 were used. A total of 29,304 camera days were accumulated in the Central Valleys and the Western Mountains and Valleys province. A total of 60,725 photographic records were analyzed, resulting in 13,471 independent events. Twenty-four species of wild mammals were documented, including endangered species. VCA showed higher species richness compared to PNA. Odocoileus virginianus was the most dominant in PNA, while Dicotyles angulatus was most dominant in VCA. We found differences in species richness between the four sites and between the two conservation strategies. Both conservation strategies are effective in maintaining mammal richness. We consider that these sites can serve as conservation islands that, in turn, can inter-connect landscapes and serve as potential biological corridors.
Storylines from Newcomers’ Perspectives: The Complexities of Learning Mathematics in a Norwegian Introductory Class
Authors: Pasanha Shanthi Gretta , Andersson Annica , Herbel-Eisenmann Beth , Simensen Anita Movik
Published: January 2025

This paper investigates storylines from newcomers’ perspectives on their experiences of learning mathematics in an introductory mathematics classroom setting in Norway. We engaged in participatory research at a school over time. The data in this article come from observations and conversational interviews. Positioning theory guided our analysis in identifying storylines and related positionings. Our analysis provided us with the following four storylines: (1) newcomers find mathematics easy because they are also learning a new language; (2) newcomers experience tensions when learning mathematics in a new language; (3) newcomers find math teachers extra kind and find that they extend their help to them more than usual; (4) newcomers seek alternative resources for learning advanced mathematics. The identified storylines serve as a valuable resource to understand the newcomers’ wishes and desires for their mathematics education in a context of not yet knowing the language of instruction and educational culture. We recommend listening to newcomers’ perspectives of their experiences and recognizing the strengths they bring to the classroom to understand how they navigate their situation while learning mathematics in multilingual mathematics learning settings.
First Record of the Ambrosia Beetle Xylosandrus compactus (Coleoptera, Curculionidae) in Croatia
Authors: Pernek Milan , Hrašovec Boris , Lacković Nikola , Domijan Ozana , Avtzis Dimitrios
Published: January 2025

(1) Background: The invasive ambrosia beetle Xylosandrus compactus (Coleoptera, Curculionidae, Scolytinae) poses an increasing risk of being introduced into new environments, mostly unintentionally, via wood products, live plants, and wood packaging materials. It is already spreading across Europe and causing growing concern due to its destructive behavior and by infesting a wide range of woody plants. The aim of this research is to identify X. compactus in Croatia and compile a list of recorded host plants. (2) Methods: Fieldwork was conducted through the assessment of beetle presence and infestation levels on host plants showing visible symptoms of attack, as well as through sampling of the beetles. Adult specimens of bark beetles were examined under a microscope, and molecular analysis was done. DNA was extracted from three randomly chosen individuals. The sequences were compared using the BLAST tool in the NCBI GenBank database. (3) Results and Conclusions: X. compactus was confirmed as a new record in Croatia, infesting laurel (Laurus nobilis), holm oak (Quercus ilex), laurestine (Viburnum tinus), olive (Olea sp.), myrtle (Myrtus communis), strawberry tree (Arbutus unedo), and pittosporum (Pittosporum tobira).
Numerical Study on the Effect of Tunnel Slope on Smoke Exhaust Performance in Metro Tunnels
Authors: Yang Yuxuan , Zhang Qianbo
Published: January 2025

Utilizing the intermediate air shaft for smoke exhaust is one of the crucial emergency ventilation methods in metro tunnel fires. To study the impact of metro tunnel slope on smoke exhaust performance of intermediate air shaft, this paper employs numerical simulation to conduct research from the following aspects: the longitudinal distribution of ceiling smoke temperature, visibility distribution, smoke layer height, and the smoke exhaust efficiency of intermediate air shaft. The results demonstrate that as the tunnel slope increases, the maximum ceiling temperature decreases, and the visibility at dangerous height increases. The smoke layer height on the downhill side of a sloped tunnel is higher than that of a horizontal tunnel, while the smoke layer height on the uphill side is lower. Under single-side smoke exhaust mode, the smoke exhaust efficiency of the 2# intermediate air shaft rises as the tunnel slope increases. However, under air supply plus smoke exhaust mode, the smoke exhaust efficiency of the 2# intermediate air shaft decreases with the growing tunnel slope.
A Social Force-Based Model for Pedestrian Evacuation with Static Guidance in Emergency Situations
Authors: Zhang Ping , Liu Wenjun , Yang Lizhong , Wu Jinzhong , Wang Kaixuan , Cui Yujie
Published: January 2025

With public safety receiving widespread attention from society, the question of how to effectively evacuate crowds has become a key issue. Leaders can provide pedestrians with clear and accurate route information and play an important role in daily crowd management and emergency safety evacuation. In this study, an evacuation model with static guidance considering the leader’s influence and the pedestrians’ decision-making behavior is proposed. The model is validated using experimental data, including evacuation behavior, evacuation time, and the percentage of the cumulative number of evacuees over time, and the simulation results match the experimental results well. Then, the model is applied to investigate the effect of different locations, numbers of static leaders, and different pedestrian distributions on evacuation efficiency in a room with unavailable exits. The results show that a leader located in the center of each potential exit can improve the overall evacuation efficiency, and the farther the guided pedestrian was from the correct exit, the better the overall evacuation performance of pedestrians. The distance parameter of multiple leaders is defined, and an optimal number of leaders exists in each specific scenario due to the overlap of leaders’ influencing areas. Furthermore, whether the pedestrians are uniformly or non-uniformly distributed, the evacuation time is shorter when the guided pedestrians are located farther from the correct exit. These findings can provide suggestions for crowd management and the arrangement of leaders in emergency evacuations.
Overview of Deep Learning and Nondestructive Detection Technology for Quality Assessment of Tomatoes
Authors: Huang Yuping , Li Ziang , Bian Zhouchen , Jin Haojun , Zheng Guoqing , Hu Dong , Sun Ye , Fan Chenlong , Xie Weijun , Fang Huimin
Published: January 2025

Tomato, as the vegetable queen, is cultivated worldwide due to its rich nutrient content and unique flavor. Nondestructive technology provides efficient and noninvasive solutions for the quality assessment of tomatoes. However, processing the substantial datasets to achieve a robust model and enhance detection performance for nondestructive technology is a great challenge until deep learning is developed. The aim of this paper is to provide a systematical overview of the principles and application for three categories of nondestructive detection techniques based on mechanical characterization, electromagnetic characterization, as well as electrochemical sensors. Tomato quality assessment is analyzed, and the characteristics of different nondestructive techniques are compared. Various data analysis methods based on deep learning are explored and the applications in tomato assessment using nondestructive techniques with deep learning are also summarized. Limitations and future expectations for the quality assessment of the tomato industry by nondestructive techniques along with deep learning are discussed. The ongoing advancements in optical equipment and deep learning methods lead to a promising outlook for the application in the tomato industry and agricultural engineering.
Profiles of Killer Systems and Volatile Organic Compounds of Rowanberry and Rosehip-Inhabiting Yeasts Substantiate Implications for Biocontrol
Authors: Vepštaitė-Monstavičė Iglė , Lukša-Žebelovič Juliana , Apšegaitė Violeta , Mozūraitis Raimondas , Lisicinas Robertas , Stanevičienė Ramunė , Blažytė-Čereškienė Laima , Serva Saulius , Servienė Elena
Published: January 2025

Yeasts produce numerous antimicrobial agents such as killer toxins, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and other secondary metabolites, establishing themselves in developing natural and sustainable biocontrol strategies for agriculture and food preservation. This study addressed the biocontrol potential of yeasts, isolated from spontaneous fermentations of rosehips (Rosa canina L.) and rowanberries (Sorbus aucuparia L.), focusing on their killer phenotypes and VOCs production. Yeasts were isolated using spontaneous fermentations with Hanseniaspora uvarum and Metschnikowia pulcherrima identified as the dominant species, comprising approximately 70% of the yeast population. Among 163 isolated strains, 20% demonstrated killing activity, with Saccharomyces cerevisiae exhibiting the strongest killing efficiency, as well as Pichia anomala and M. pulcherrima showing broad-spectrum antagonistic activity. This study identified dsRNA-encoded killer phenotypes in S. cerevisiae, S. paradoxus, and Torulaspora delbrueckii, revealing multiple distinct killer toxin types. The biocontrol potential of wild berry-inhabiting yeasts was demonstrated in a real food system, grape juice, where the S. cerevisiae K2-type killer strain significantly reduced fungal contaminants. The selected H. uvarum, M. pulcherrima, S. cerevisiae, and S. paradoxus yeast strains representing both berries were applied for VOC analysis and identification by gas chromatography-linked mass spectrometry. It was revealed that the patterns of emitted volatiles are yeast species-specific. Statistically significant differences between the individual VOCs were observed among killing phenotype-possessing vs. non-killer S. paradoxus yeasts, thus revealing the involvement of killer systems in multi-level biocontrol enablement. The performed studies deepen our understanding of potential yeast biocontrol mechanisms, highlight the importance of produced antimicrobials and volatiles in ensuring antagonistic efficacy, and prove the relevance of isolated biocontrol yeasts for improving food safety.
Genetic Predisposition to Hippocampal Atrophy and Risk of Amnestic Mild Cognitive Impairment and Alzheimer’s Dementia
Authors: Liampas Ioannis , Siokas Vasileios , Mourtzi Niki , Charisis Sokratis , Sampatakakis Stefanos N. , Foukarakis Ioannis , Hatzimanolis Alex , Ramirez Alfredo , Lambert Jean-Charles , Yannakoulia Mary , Kosmidis Mary H. , Dardiotis Efthimios , Hadjigeorgiou Georgios M. , Sakka Paraskevi , Rouskas Konstantinos , Scarmeas Nikolaos
Published: January 2025

Background: There is a paucity of evidence on the association between genetic propensity for hippocampal atrophy with cognitive outcomes. Therefore, we examined the relationship of the polygenic risk score for hippocampal atrophy (PRShp) with the incidence of amnestic mild cognitive impairment (aMCI) and Alzheimer’s disease (AD) as well as the rates of cognitive decline. Methods: Participants were drawn from the population-based HELIAD cohort. Comprehensive neuropsychological assessments were performed at baseline and at follow-up. PRShp was derived from the summary statistics of a large genome-wide association study for hippocampal volume. Cox proportional hazards models as well as generalized estimating equations (GEEs) were used to evaluate the association of PRShp with the combined incidence of aMCI/AD and cognitive changes over time, respectively. All models were adjusted for age, sex, education, and apolipoprotein E (APOE) genotype. Results: Our analysis included 618 older adults, among whom 73 developed aMCI/AD after an average follow-up of 2.96 ± 0.8 years. Each additional SD of PRShp elevated the relative hazard for incident aMCI/AD by 46%. Participants at the top quartile of PRShp had an almost three times higher risk of converting to aMCI/AD compared to the lowest quartile group. Higher PRShp scores were also linked to steeper global cognitive and memory decline. The impact of PRShp was greater among women and younger adults. Conclusions: Our findings support the association of PRShp with aMCI/AD incidence and with global cognitive and memory decline over time. The PRS association was sex- and age-dependent, suggesting that these factors should be considered in genetic modelling for AD.
“Lack” and “Finally”: A Qualitative Analysis of Barriers and Facilitators in Rare Disease Healthcare
Authors: Hemmesch Amanda R. , Bogart Kathleen R. , Barnes Erica
Published: January 2025

Background: This study explored the experiences of adults with diverse rare diseases (RDs) and RD caregivers with barriers and facilitators to healthcare access in the United States (US), including during the early part of the COVID-19 pandemic, and their recommendations for improving access. Results: Adults with RDs and parents/caregivers to children with RDs (N = 1128) completed open-ended survey items. Responses were analyzed using thematic analysis. The primary theme identified regarding barriers to healthcare was “lack”; participants reported challenges in obtaining an accurate diagnosis, effective management/treatment, health insurance coverage, and social support. The primary theme identified regarding facilitators was “finally”; participants reported a need for persistence to access a diagnosis, RD experts, as well as social support and advocacy. Recommendations for improving healthcare for RDs mirrored the barriers and facilitators identified, including improving knowledge/awareness of RDs and investing in RD research that could improve diagnosis and treatment. Participants’ healthcare experiences varied widely during the COVID-19 pandemic, with some reporting that telehealth improved care and others reporting disruption due to telehealth. Conclusions: Even though individual diagnoses are rare, there are shared challenges to healthcare access and common opportunities for improvement. Policy recommendations regarding RD healthcare focus on improving affordable and timely access to knowledgeable providers, diagnosis, and medications/treatments.
Vanadium-Dependent Haloperoxidase Gene Evolution in Brown Algae: Evidence for Horizontal Gene Transfer
Authors: Yuan Zihao , Zhang Jie , Duan Delin
Published: January 2025

Compared with green plants, brown algae are characterized by their ability to accumulate iodine, contributing to their ecological adaptability in high-iodide coastal environments. Vanadium-dependent haloperoxidase (V-HPO) is the key enzyme for iodine synthesis. Despite its significance, the evolutionary origin of V-HPO genes remains underexplored. This study investigates the genomic and evolutionary dynamics of V-HPOs in brown algae, focusing on Laminariales species, particularly Saccharina japonica. Genomic analyses revealed the extensive expansion of the V-HPO gene family in brown algae, with 88 V-HPOs identified in S. japonica, surpassing the number in red algae. Phylogenetic analysis demonstrated distinct evolutionary divergence between brown and red algal V-HPOs, with the brown algal clade closely related to bacterial V-HPOs. These findings suggest horizontal gene transfer (HGT) played a key role in acquiring V-HPO genes, particularly from Acidobacteriota, a bacterial phylum known for genomic plasticity. Additionally, enriched active transposable elements were identified around V-HPO genomic clusters, highlighting their role in tandem gene duplications and rapid HGT processes. Expression profiling further revealed dynamic regulation of V-HPOs in response to environmental conditions. This study provides new insights into how HGT has driven kelp genomic adaptations and enhances understanding of marine ecological success and evolutionary processes.
Role of Artificial Intelligence in Identifying Vital Biomarkers with Greater Precision in Emergency Departments During Emerging Pandemics
Authors: Garrido Nicolás J. , González-Martínez Félix , Torres Ana M. , Blasco-Segura Pilar , Losada Susana , Plaza Adrián , Mateo Jorge
Published: January 2025

The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated advances in molecular biology and virology, enabling the identification of key biomarkers to differentiate between severe and mild cases. Furthermore, the use of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) to analyze large datasets has been crucial for rapidly identifying relevant biomarkers for disease prognosis, including COVID-19. This approach enhances diagnostics in emergency settings, allowing for more accurate and efficient patient management. This study demonstrates how machine learning algorithms in emergency departments can rapidly identify key biomarkers for the vital prognosis in an emerging pandemic using COVID-19 as an example by analyzing clinical, epidemiological, analytical, and radiological data. All consecutively admitted patients were included, and more than 89 variables were processed using the Random Forest (RF) algorithm. The RF model achieved the highest balanced accuracy at 92.61%. The biomarkers most predictive of mortality included procalcitonin (PCT), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), and C-reactive protein (CRP). Additionally, the system highlighted the significance of interstitial infiltrates in chest X-rays and D-dimer levels. Our results demonstrate that RF is crucial in identifying critical biomarkers in emerging diseases, accelerating data analysis, and optimizing prognosis and personalized treatment, emphasizing the importance of PCT and LDH in high-risk patients.