bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Updates and Future Directions for the Nottingham Research Programme on Primary Breast Cancer in Older Women
Authors: Parks Ruth Mary , Cheung Kwok-Leung
Published: January 2025

The global population is ageing and the risk of breast cancer increases with age. Therefore, we can expect an increase in the number of cases of breast cancer worldwide in the next 20 years. Currently, there are few age-specific guidelines for the management of breast cancer in older women. The International Society of Geriatric Oncology and European Society of Breast Cancer guidelines on this topic were last updated in 2021 and provide some recommendations, although it is worth noting that, generally, the level of evidence pertaining to older women is low. The Nottingham research team on older women with primary breast cancer is working on three main aims in this cohort: (1) understand the unique biological differences between breast cancer in older compared to younger women, (2) explore the unique psycho-social factors that may be present in this population and differ from those found in younger women, as well as how this may influence treatment decisions, and (3) the cost-effectiveness of various treatment strategies in this cohort. This paper will outline key studies published by the Nottingham team in these areas to gather data and highlight future directions for the research group.
Unveiling the Stacking Faults in Fe2B Induces a High-Performance Oxygen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Li Haoyu , Liu Xin , Liu Xiaoyan , Cao Jian , Yang Lili , Liu Huilian , Zhu Pinwen , Zhou Qiang , Zhao Xingbin , Chen Yanli , Wei Maobin , Tao Qiang
Published: January 2025

Fe2B is a potentially promising electrocatalyst for the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) due to its excellent electronic conductivity, which is superior to that of traditional oxide catalysts. However, the activity of Fe2B is still not satisfactory. In this study, meta-stable microstructure stacking faults (SFs) were incorporated into Fe2B through a one-step high-pressure and high-temperature (HPHT) method. Pressure suppressed atomic diffusion but formed SFs when the grain grew. Fe2B with SFs exhibited remarkable OER activity, with low overpotential values of only 269 and 344 mV required to reach current densities of 10 and 100 mA cm−2, respectively; because of the presence of SFs, the overpotential for the OER was reduced to only 67.7% of that of Fe2B without SFs at 10 mA cm−2. Theoretical and experimental investigations confirmed that these SFs regulate the d-band center of Fe2B toward the Fermi level, optimizing the catalytic site activity. Furthermore, SFs reduced the charge transfer between Fe atoms and boron (B) atoms, increasing the number of free electrons in the structure and thereby increasing conductivity. Finally, this study suggests a strategy to construct microstructures in crystals, providing new insights into designing excellent catalysts via microstructure engineering.
Mesenchymal Stem/Stromal Cells Microencapsulation for Cell Therapy
Authors: Abbas Sharaf Eldeen M. , Maged Ghada , Wang Hongjun , Lotfy Ahmed
Published: January 2025

Cell microencapsulation is one of the most studied strategies to overcome the challenges associated with the implementation of mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (MSCs) in vivo. This approach isolates/shields donor MSCs from the host immune system using a semipermeable membrane that allows for the diffusion of gases, nutrients, and therapeutics, but not host immune cells. As a result, microencapsulated MSCs survive and engraft better after infusion, and they can be delivered specifically to the targeted site. Additionally, microencapsulation enables the co-culture of MSCs with different types of cells in a three-dimensional (3D) environment, allowing for better cellular interaction. Alginate, collagen, and cellulose are the most popular materials, and air jet extrusion, microfluidics, and emulsion are the most used techniques for MSC cell encapsulation in the literature. These materials and techniques differ in the size range of the resultant microcapsules and their compatibility with the applied materials. This review discusses various materials and techniques used for the microencapsulation of MSCs. We also shed light on the recent findings in this field, the advantages and drawbacks of using encapsulated MSCs, and the in vivo translation of the microencapsulated MSCs in cell therapy.
In Vivo and In Vitro Evaluation of the Feasibility and Safety Profiles of Intraarticular Transplantation of Mitochondria for Future Use as a Therapy for Osteoarthritis
Authors: Vaamonde-Garcia Carlos , Hermida-Gómez Tamara , Paniagua-Barro Sara , Burguera Elena F. , Blanco Francisco J. , Fernández-Moreno Mercedes
Published: January 2025

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common rheumatologic disease and a major cause of pain and disability in older adults. No efficient treatment is currently available. Mitochondrial dysfunction in chondrocytes drives molecular dysregulation in OA pathogenesis. Recently, mitochondrial transfer to chondrocytes had been described, enabling transplant of mitochondria as a new avenue to modify the OA process, although evidence on its feasibility and safety remains limited.The primary objective of this study was to demonstrate the feasibility and safety of intra-articular mitochondrial transplantation. Mitochondria were isolated from liver using the procedure described by Preble and coworkers combined with magnetic beads coupled to anti-TOM22 antibodies. The organelles obtained were analyzed to determine their purity and viability. The safety and viability of the administration of the isolated mitochondria into articular tissues as well as the integration and distribution of the transplanted mitochondria within joint tissues were analyzed using both in vitro and in vivo models. We established an efficient, reproducible, effective, and rapid protocol for isolating mitochondria from liver. We obtained mitochondria with high viability, yield, and purity. The isolated mitochondria were injected into joint tissue using both in vitro and in vivo models. Functional mitochondria were detected in the extracellular matrix of the cartilage, menisci and synovium. Our results establish a safe and viable protocol for mitochondrial isolation and intra-articular injection. The methodology and findings presented here pave the way for future studies in osteoarthritis models to validate mitochondrial transplantation as a potentially effective treatment for OA.
Cortical Diffusivity, a Biomarker for Early Neuronal Damage, Is Associated with Amyloid-β Deposition: A Pilot Study
Authors: Debatisse Justine , Leng Fangda , Ashraf Azhaar , Edison Paul
Published: January 2025

Pathological alterations in Alzheimer’s disease (AD) begin several years prior to symptom onset. Cortical mean diffusivity (cMD) may be used as a measure of early grey matter damage in AD as it reflects the breakdown of microstructural barriers preceding volumetric changes and affecting cognitive function. We investigated cMD changes early in the disease trajectory and evaluated the influence of amyloid-β (Aβ) and tau deposition. In this cross-sectional study, we analysed multimodal PET, DTI, and MRI data of 87 participants, and stratified them into Aβ-negative and -positive, cognitively normal, mildly cognitively impaired, and AD patients. cMD was significantly increased in Aβ-positive MCI and AD compared with CN in the frontal, parietal, temporal cortex, hippocampus, and medial temporal lobe. cMD was significantly correlated with cortical thickness only in patients without Aβ deposition but not in Aβ-positive patients. Our results suggest that cMD is an early marker of neuronal damage since it is observed simultaneously with Aβ deposition and is correlated with cortical thickness only in subjects without Aβ deposition. cMD changes may be driven by Aβ but not tau, suggesting that direct Aβ toxicity or associated inflammation causes damage to neurons. cMD may provide information about early microstructural changes before macrostructural changes.
RyR1 Is Involved in the Control of Myogenesis
Authors: Tourel Amandine , Reynaud-Dulaurier Robin , Brocard Julie , Fauré Julien , Marty Isabelle , Petiot Anne
Published: January 2025

The RyR1 calcium release channel is a key player in skeletal muscle excitation–contraction coupling. Mutations in the RYR1 gene are associated with congenital myopathies. Recently, a role of RyR1 in myotubes differentiation has been proposed and attributed to its calcium channel function, which nonetheless remains to be clearly demonstrated. In order to clarify RyR1 role in myogenesis, we have developed an in vitro model, the so-called RyR1-Rec myotubes, which are mouse primary myotubes with an inducible decrease in RyR1 protein amount and in RyR1-mediated calcium release. Using this model, we showed that the RyR1 protein decrease was responsible for an increase in both differentiation and fusion, from the RNA level to the morphological level, without affecting the myogenic factors MyoD and MyoG. Although an increase in mTOR pathway was observed in RyR1-Rec myotubes, it did not seem to be responsible for the role of RyR1 in myogenesis. Additionally, even if modulation of intracellular calcium level affected RyR1-Rec myotubes differentiation, we have shown that the role of RyR1 in myogenesis was independent of its calcium channel function. Therefore, our findings indicate that, besides its pivotal role as a calcium channel responsible for muscle contraction, RyR1 fulfills a calcium-independent inhibitor function of myogenesis.
The Therapeutic Potential of MicroRNA-21 in the Treatment of Spinal Cord Injury
Authors: Hasan Ahmed , Ardizzone Alessio , Giosa Domenico , Scuderi Sarah Adriana , Calcaterra Elsa , Esposito Emanuela , Capra Anna Paola
Published: January 2025

Spinal cord injury (SCI) involves complex pathological processes that often result in significant and long-term neurological deficits. Increasingly, research has identified microRNA-21 (miR-21) as a pivotal regulator in SCI, with studies focusing on its roles in inflammation, apoptosis, and tissue repair. This review synthesizes current findings on miR-21’s involvement in post-injury molecular events, emphasizing its interactions with regulatory targets such as Phosphatase and Tensin Homolog (PTEN) and Programmed Cell Death Protein 4 (PDCD4), as well as its broader effects on inflammatory and apoptotic signaling pathways. Evidence from both in vitro and in vivo studies suggests that modulating miR-21 influences lesion size, cellular dynamics, and functional recovery, highlighting its potential as a therapeutic target for SCI. Nonetheless, the clinical translation of miR-21-based therapies poses significant challenges, including the need to optimize dosages, delivery mechanisms, and long-term safety profiles. Further research is crucial to fully delineate miR-21’s therapeutic potential and determine its feasibility for integration into SCI treatment protocols. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of miR-21’s roles in SCI pathology, offering insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying recovery and the emerging potential of miR-21 in SCI management to enhance outcomes and quality of life for affected patients.
The Effect of Oxidation Time on the Organization and Corrosion Performance of 6061 Aluminum Alloy Micro-Arc Oxidation Coatings
Authors: Yang Xing , Huang Zhu , Liao Xiuxiang , Lei Heping , Hao Daichao , Zhang Tong , Jiang Bingchun
Published: January 2025

This study investigates the influence of micro-arc oxidation (MAO) duration on the formation and characteristics of ceramic coatings on 6061 aluminum alloys. MAO treatments were conducted in a silicate-based electrolyte for varying durations. The effects of oxidation time on film thickness, surface roughness, morphology, and phase composition were meticulously assessed using a film thickness gauge, surface roughness meter, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis. The corrosion behavior of the coatings was evaluated in a 3.5% NaCl solution using an electrochemical workstation. The experimental results demonstrate that both the film thickness and surface roughness exhibit a positive correlation with oxidation time. Notably, the film growth rate initially increased before plateauing, suggesting an optimal oxidation duration. The coatings primarily comprise γ-Al2O3, α-Al2O3, and Al phases, with the proportions of γ-Al2O3 and α-Al2O3 increasing progressively with extended oxidation times. Comparative electrochemical tests revealed that the treated specimens exhibited significantly higher corrosion potential and reduced corrosion current densities compared to the untreated aluminum alloy substrate. Specifically, a coating produced with a 20 min oxidation time demonstrated an exceptional corrosion current density (Jcorr) of 1.545 × 10−6 A·cm−2 and a corrosion resistance (Rp) of 2.716 × 104 Ω·cm2, signifying the best corrosion resistance achieved in this study. These results underscore the pivotal role of oxidation time in tailoring the properties of micro-arc-oxidized layers on 6061 aluminum alloys, offering valuable insights for enhancing corrosion protection in practical applications.
Thermal Behavior, Local-Scale Morphology, and Phase Composition of Spherulites in Melt-Crystallized Poly(Vinylidene Fluoride) Films
Authors: Anokhin Denis V. , Plieva Dana S. , Rosenthal Martin , Churakov Andrei V. , Ivanov Dimitri A.
Published: January 2025

Synchrotron microbeam X-ray diffraction was employed to investigate the local-scale structure and solid-state phase transformation within individual spherulites of poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF). In thin, non-oriented films, PVDF crystallizes into α and γ-phases, forming distinct spherulitic morphologies: large, banded α-spherulites and smaller, irregular “mixed” spherulites dominated by the γ-phase. For samples crystallized at high undercooling (160 °C), the mixed spherulites primarily consisted of the γ-phase, with only a minor fraction of α-lamellae localized at the spherulite boundaries. At higher crystallization temperatures (165 °C), the α-phase was entirely absent from the mixed spherulites. High-temperature annealing induced a phase transformation from the α-phase to the γ-phase, initiating at the interface between α- and γ-spherulites. The transformation propagated radially along the b-axis of the α-spherulite, while its characteristic banded morphology remained intact. Radial scanning with an X-ray microbeam provided spatially resolved mapping of the structural transition within the α-spherulite at the micrometer scale, offering detailed insights into the transformation mechanism and its impact on the spherulitic structure. The fast crystal growth direction remained unaltered during the transition, suggesting minimal material transport and maintaining structural coherence.
A Combined Approach to Solving Applied Metal Forming Problems
Authors: Baldin Matvej , Kondratev Nikita , Trusov Peter , Ostapovich Kirill
Published: January 2025

This paper presents a combined approach to the solution of boundary value problems. The approach implies the joint application of a macro-phenomenological model and multilevel physical constitutive models for describing the behavior of a polycrystalline material. Within the framework of the proposed approach, the boundary value problem is solved for a certain product (structure) using a macro-phenomenological model of the material and the response in the chosen area is clarified using multilevel modeling techniques. The capabilities of the approach were demonstrated in a series of numerical experiments covering metal forming processes. In order to test and verify the proposed technique, in the first numerical experiment, the process of an upsetting of the sample was considered using only a multilevel physical model of the material and using the formulated combined approach. The response in the chosen domain was compared to the results obtained by different modeling approaches. The comparison showed good agreement in terms of the variables of the stress–strain state at the macro level, as well as in terms of the variables characterizing the internal structure of the material. At the same time, using the combined approach, the required computation time was reduced by more than 12 times. In the second and third numerical experiments, the process of sheet rolling and sample pressing was successfully simulated using a combined approach. The formulated approach is computationally efficient and applicable for solving the relevant boundary value problems of design and the optimization of technological processes.
Comparison of Selected Crystal Structures of Rod-like Molecules with Acid and Ester Terminal Groups
Authors: Zugenmaier Peter
Published: January 2025

The crystal structures of rod-like molecules with nitro-biphenyl or nitro-phenyl end groups and attached n-alkyl units with terminal acid or ester groups are determined by single crystal analysis and their arrangements are compared. The molecules are linked by head-to-tail arrangements and form strings. They point in a single or two different directions and are placed side by side to create the crystal structure. Some of the space groups of the structures can only be determined by a statistical routine because strongly disordered structures prevent the use of extinction methods, since many extinction violations occur for monoclinic and orthorhombic unit cells. An agreement between experimental and calculated X-ray reflection intensities serves as proof of the correctness of the method as well as a test of the existence of an inversion center. The single crystals are grown in solution with ethanol, isopropanol, DMAc, and toluene as solvents. Cocrystals are formed in DMAc solutions by the dissolved acid compounds. The two-molecule asymmetric unit of the acid compound is reduced to a one-molecule asymmetric unit with one DMAc included which forms a hydrogen bond with the acid group of the biphenyl molecule. These changes alter the hydrogen bonding scheme along a string. Some structural similarities as the head-to-tail arrangement in the strings are maintained between the terminal acid and ester compounds despite disordered ester groups in the compounds and the ester molecules themselves at ambient temperature.
Impact of Diffraction Data Volume on Data Quality in Serial Crystallography
Authors: Nam Ki Hyun
Published: January 2025

Serial crystallography (SX) enables macromolecular structure determination at biologically relevant temperatures while minimizing radiation damage. This technique relies on processing numerous diffraction images from multiple crystals to construct a complete dataset for three-dimensional structure determination. Although increasing the volume of SX diffraction data improves data quality, excessive data collection reduces beamtime efficiency. Therefore, understanding the relationship between data volume and data quality is crucial for the efficient use of SX beamtime. In this study, serial synchrotron crystallography datasets from lysozyme and glucose isomerase were analyzed to assess the impact of varying diffraction data volumes on processing statistics and structural determination outcomes. Data processing statistics and structure refinement metrics improved as the volume of integrated diffraction data increased; however, the rate of improvement in data quality was not proportional to the number of integrated diffraction patterns. Furthermore, the rate of improvement in data processing statistics decreased beyond a certain threshold volume. These findings expand our understanding of SX data processing and provide insights into optimizing the efficiency of data processing.
Echocardiography with Strain Assessment in Psychiatric Diseases: A Narrative Review
Authors: Spyra Aleksandra , Sierpińska Aleksandra , Suchodolski Alexander , Florek Szymon , Szulik Mariola
Published: January 2025

Mental disorders (MDs) are among the major causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Individuals with severe MDs have a shorter life expectancy, primarily due to cardiovascular diseases. Echocardiography facilitates the evaluation of alterations in cardiac morphology and function, resulting from various cardiac pathologies. The aim of this review was to explore the current evidence base behind the myocardial deformation observed in echocardiography in patients with MDs. We primarily focused on the data regarding speckle tracking echocardiography. PubMed, using medical subject headings, was searched to identify studies on this topic. The collected data demonstrated changes in myocardial function in schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety disorder, stressor-related disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, eating disorders, sleep–wake disorders, substance-related and addictive disorders, neurocognitive disorders, and borderline personality disorder. The recurrent findings included impaired Left Ventricular Ejection Fraction and Left Ventricular Hypertrophy. Global Longitudinal Strain was significantly altered in patients with anorexia nervosa, bipolar disorder, and substance-related disorders. All reported studies support the consideration of cardiology consultations and a multidisciplinary approach in the care of patients with MDs with suspected cardiac dysfunction. Further investigation is warranted to determine the significance and prognostic value of myocardial deformation and strain measurements among individuals with MDs, focusing on the value of early detection, especially in asymptomatic cases.
Measuring the Risk Spillover Effect of RCEP Stock Markets: Evidence from the TVP-VAR Model and Transfer Entropy
Authors: Zou Yijiang , Chen Qinghua , Han Jihui , Xiao Mingzhong
Published: January 2025

This paper selects daily stock market trading data of RCEP member countries from 3 December 2007 to 9 December 2024 and employs the Time-Varying Parameter Vector Autoregression (TVP-VAR) model and transfer entropy to measure the time-varying volatility spillover effects among the stock markets of the sampled countries. The results indicate that the signing of the RCEP has strengthened the interconnectedness of member countries’ stock markets, with an overall upward trend in volatility spillover effects, which become even more pronounced during periods of financial turbulence. Within the structure of RCEP member stock markets, China is identified as a net risk receiver, while countries like Japan and South Korea act as net risk spillover contributors. This highlights the current “fragility” of China’s stock market, making it susceptible to risk shocks from the stock markets of economically developed RCEP member countries. This analysis suggests that significant changes in bidirectional risk spillover relationships between China’s stock market and those of other RCEP members coincided with the signing and implementation of the RCEP agreement.
Maximizing Free Energy Gain
Authors: Kolchinsky Artemy , Marvian Iman , Gokler Can , Liu Zi-Wen , Shor Peter , Shtanko Oles , Thompson Kevin , Wolpert David , Lloyd Seth
Published: January 2025

Maximizing the amount of work harvested from an environment is important for a wide variety of biological and technological processes, from energy-harvesting processes such as photosynthesis to energy storage systems such as fuels and batteries. Here, we consider the maximization of free energy—and by extension, the maximum extractable work—that can be gained by a classical or quantum system that undergoes driving by its environment. We consider how the free energy gain depends on the initial state of the system while also accounting for the cost of preparing the system. We provide simple necessary and sufficient conditions for increasing the gain of free energy by varying the initial state. We also derive simple formulae that relate the free energy gained using the optimal initial state rather than another suboptimal initial state. Finally, we demonstrate that the problem of finding the optimal initial state may have two distinct regimes, one easy and one difficult, depending on the temperatures used for preparation and work extraction. We illustrate our results on a simple model of an information engine.
Nonadditive Entropies and Nonextensive Statistical Mechanics
Authors: Tirnakli Ugur
Published: January 2025

The centennial Boltzmann–Gibbs statistical mechanics [...]
Efficacy of Dialkylcarbamoylchloride (DACC)-Impregnated Dressings in Surgical Wound Management: A Review
Authors: Jeyaraman Madhan , Jeyaraman Naveen , Ramasubramanian Swaminathan , Nallakumarasamy Arulkumar , Murugan Shrideavi , Jayakumar Tarun , Muthu Sathish
Published: January 2025

Surgical site infections (SSIs) are a significant challenge in postoperative care, leading to increased morbidity, extended hospital stays, and elevated healthcare costs. Traditional antimicrobial dressings, such as those containing silver or iodine, have limitations, including cytotoxicity and the potential for antimicrobial resistance. Dialkylcarbamoyl chloride (DACC)-impregnated dressings offer a novel approach, employing a physical mechanism to bind and remove bacteria without the use of chemical agents, thereby reducing the risk of resistance. This review summarizes current evidence on the efficacy of DACC dressings in preventing SSIs and promoting wound healing. Findings from multiple studies indicate that DACC dressings reduce bacterial burden and SSI rates across various surgical procedures, including cesarean sections and vascular surgeries. Additionally, DACC dressings demonstrate potential in managing hard-to-heal wounds, such as diabetic foot ulcers, by reducing bacterial load and biofilm formation. Furthermore, they present advantages in antimicrobial stewardship and cost-effectiveness by minimizing the need for antibiotics and decreasing overall healthcare expenses. However, the current literature is limited by small sample sizes, methodological weaknesses, heterogeneity in study designs, and a lack of long-term data. Future research should focus on high-quality randomized controlled trials across diverse surgical populations, comprehensive cost-effectiveness analyses, and long-term outcomes to establish the full clinical impact of DACC dressings. With further validation, DACC-impregnated dressings could become a critical tool in sustainable postoperative wound care.
Smart Electronics, Energy, and IoT Infrastructures for Smart Cities
Authors: Xu Zheng , Abawajy Jemal
Published: January 2025

The incorporation of advanced AI into energy and grids necessitates a comprehensive understanding of smart cities [...]
A Distributed Trustable Framework for AI-Aided Anomaly Detection
Authors: Nomikos Nikolaos , Xylouris George , Patsourakis Gerasimos , Nikolakakis Vasileios , Giannopoulos Anastasios , Mandilaris Charilaos , Gkonis Panagiotis , Skianis Charalabos , Trakadas Panagiotis
Published: January 2025

The evolution towards sixth-generation (6G) networks requires new architecture enhancements to support the broad device ecosystem, comprising users, machines, autonomous vehicles, and Internet-of-things devices. Moreover, high heterogeneity in the desired quality-of-service (QoS) is expected, as 6G networks will offer extremely low-latency and high-throughput services and error-free communication. This complex environment raises significant challenges in resource management while adhering to security and privacy constraints due to the plethora of data generation endpoints. Considering the advances in AI/ML-aided integration in wireless networks and recent efforts on the network data analytics function (NWDAF) by the 3rd generation partnership project (3GPP), this work presents an AI/ML-aided distributed trustable engine (DTE), collecting data from diverse sources of the 6G infrastructure and deploying ML methods for anomaly detection against diverse threat types. Moreover, we present the DTE architecture and its components, providing data management, AI/ML model training, and classification capabilities for anomaly detection. To promote privacy-aware networking, a federated learning (FL) framework to extend the DTE is discussed. Then, the anomaly detection capabilities of the AI/ML-aided DTE are presented in detail, together with the ML model training process, which considers various ML models. For this purpose, we use two open datasets representing attack scenarios in the core and the edge parts of the network. Experimental results, including an ensemble learning method and different supervised learning alternatives, show that the AI/ML-aided DTE can efficiently train ML models with reduced dimensionality and deploy them in diverse cybersecurity scenarios to improve anomaly detection in 6G networks.
Minimizing the Environmental Impact of Aircraft Engines with the Use of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) and Hydrogen
Authors: Brodzik Łukasz , Prokopowicz Wojciech , Ciupek Bartosz , Frąckowiak Andrzej
Published: January 2025

Adverse climate change has forced a deeper reflection on the scale of pollution related to human activity, including in the aviation industry. As a result, fundamental questions have arisen about the characteristics of these pollutants, the mechanisms of their formation and potential strategies for reducing them. This paper provides a comprehensive overview of key technical solutions to minimize the environmental impact of aircraft engines. The solutions presented range from fuel innovations to advanced design changes and drive concepts. Particular attention was paid to sustainable aviation fuels (SAFs), which are currently an important element of the environmental strategy regulated by the European Union. It also discusses the potential use of hydrogen as a potential alternative fuel to replace traditional aviation fuels in the long term. The analysis in the article made it possible to characterize in detail possible modifications in the functioning of aircraft engines, based both on the current state of technical knowledge and on the anticipated directions of its development, which has not been a frequent issue in comprehensive research so far. The analysis shows that the type of raw material used to create SAF has a strong impact on its physical and chemical parameters and the degree of greenhouse gas emissions. This necessitates a broader analysis of the legitimacy of using a given type of fuel from the SAF group in the direction of selected air operations and areas with a higher risk of severe atmospheric pollution. These results provide the basis for further research into sustainable solutions in the aviation sector that can contribute to significantly reducing its impact on climate change.
A Native Insect on a Non-Native Plant: The Phylogeography of the Leafminer Phyllonorycter populifoliella (Lepidoptera: Gracillariidae) Attacking the North American Balsam Poplar in North Asia
Authors: Kirichenko Natalia I. , Ryazanova Maria A. , Akulov Evgeny N. , Baryshnikova Svetlana V. , Efremenko Anton A. , Krutovsky Konstantin V. , Kuzevanov Victor Ya. , Selikhovkin Andrei V. , Shashank Pathour R. , Sinev Sergey Yu. , Triberti Paolo , Zakharov Evgeny V. , Musolin Dmitrii L.
Published: January 2025

The trans-Palearctic moth Phyllonorycter populifoliella (Lepidoptera: Gracillariidae) is a major pest of the North American Populus balsamifera and its hybrids widely planted as ornamentals in North Asia (i.e., the Asian part of Russia). We DNA barcoded Ph. populifoliella from distant geographical populations in Russia and analyzed them together with the data from eight European countries and India to estimate intraspecific variability and the haplotype richness in the Palearctic, and specifically in North Asia. Furthermore, using next-generation sequencing (NGS, Sequel platform, PacBio), we investigated larval and pupal remnants found in an old herbarium from the Nearctic, where P. balsamifera occurs naturally, to verify if any events of the moth introduction to this biogeographic zone happened in the past. Relatively high intraspecific variability in the COI gene of mtDNA, reaching 3.73%, was recorded in Ph. populifoliella. Overall, 30 COI haplotypes were defined in 83 specimens from the Palearctic, with a noticeable richness in North Asia (21 haplotypes). Using NGS, the remnants of 14 Phyllonorycter specimens dissected from up to 174-year-old herbaria from the Palearctic and Nearctic were sequenced, and four moth species were identified. Among them, there were three Palearctic species, Ph. populifoliella, Ph. pastorella (Zeller), and Ph. apparella (Herrich-Schäffer), and one Nearctic, Ph. nipigon (Freeman). No evidence of Ph. populifoliella introduction to North America was documented based on the examination of the herbarium dated 1850–1974. Three specimens of Ph. populifoliella identified from herbaria from Austria and Poland (dated 1879–1931) represented one haplotype (H7) known from the recent time. Overall, our study clarifies the modern range, provides insights into phylogeography, and defines the haplotype richness of the native leafminer outbreaking on the alien host. Furthermore, it underlines the use of old herbaria to explore the historical distribution of endophagous insect species.
Modeling Forest Regeneration Dynamics: Estimating Regeneration, Growth, and Mortality Rates in Lithuanian Forests
Authors: Damaševičius Robertas , Maskeliūnas Rytis
Published: January 2025

This study presents a novel approach to analyzing forest regeneration dynamics by integrating a Markov chain model with Multivariate Time Series (MTY) decomposition. The probabilistic tracking of age-class transitions was combined with the decomposition of regeneration rates into trend, seasonal, and irregular components, unlike traditional deterministic models, capturing the variability and uncertainties inherent in forest ecosystems, offering a more nuanced understanding of how Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) and other tree species evolve under different management and climate scenarios. Using 20 years of empirical data from the Lithuanian National Forest Inventory, the study evaluates key growth and mortality parameters for Scots pine, Spruce (Picea abies), Birch (Betula pendula), and Aspen (Populus tremula). The model for Scots pine showed a 79.6% probability of advancing from the 1–10 age class to the 11–20 age class, with subsequent transitions of 82.9% and 84.1% for older age classes. The model for Birch shown a strong early growth rate, with an 84% chance of transitioning to the next age class, while the model for Aspen indicated strong slowdown after 31 years. The model indicated moderate early growth for Spruce with a high transition in later stages, highlighting its resilience in mature forest ecosystems. Sensitivity analysis revealed that while higher growth rates can prolong forest stand longevity, mortality rates above 0.33 severely compromise stand viability. The Hotelling T2 control chart identified critical deviations in forest dynamics, particularly in years 13 and 19, suggesting periods of environmental stress. The model offers actionable insights for sustainable forest management, emphasizing the importance of species-specific strategies, adaptive interventions, and the integration of climate change resilience into long-term forest planning.
Remote Sensing Technology for Observing Tree Mortality and Its Influences on Carbon–Water Dynamics
Authors: Ni Mengying , Wu Qingquan , Li Guiying , Li Dengqiu
Published: January 2025

Trees are indispensable to ecosystems, yet mortality rates have been increasing due to the abnormal changes in forest growth environments caused by frequent extreme weather events associated with global climate warming. Consequently, the need to monitor, assess, and predict tree mortality has become increasingly urgent to better address climate change and protect forest ecosystems. Over the past few decades, remote sensing has been widely applied to vegetation mortality observation due to its significant advantages. Here, we reviewed and analyzed the major research advancements in the application of remote sensing for tree mortality monitoring, using the Web of Science Core Collection database, covering the period from 1998 to the first half of 2024. We comprehensively summarized the use of different platforms (satellite and UAV) for data acquisition, the application of various sensors (multispectral, hyperspectral, and radar) as image data sources, the primary indicators, the classification models used in monitoring tree mortality, and the influence of tree mortality. Our findings indicated that satellite-based optical remote sensing data were the primary data source for tree mortality monitoring, accounting for 80% of existing studies. Time-series optical remote sensing data have emerged as a crucial direction for enhancing the accuracy of vegetation mortality monitoring. In recent years, studies utilizing airborne LiDAR have shown an increasing trend, accounting for 48% of UAV-based research. NDVI was the most commonly used remote sensing indicator, and most studies incorporated meteorological and climatic factors as environmental variables. Machine learning was increasingly favored for remote sensing data analysis, with Random Forest being the most widely used classification model. People are more focused on the impacts of tree mortality on water and carbon. Finally, we discussed the challenges in monitoring and evaluating tree mortality through remote sensing and offered perspectives for future developments.
The Lattice Boltzmann Method with Deformable Boundary for Colonic Flow Due to Segmental Circular Contractions
Authors: Ginzburg Irina
Published: January 2025

We extend the 3D Lattice Boltzmann method with a deformable boundary (LBM-DB) for the computations of the full-volume colonic flow of the Newtonian fluid driven by the peristaltic segmented circular contractions which obey the three-step “intestinal law”: (i) deflation, (ii) inflation, and (iii) elastic relaxation. The key point is that the LBM-DB accurately prescribes a curved deforming surface on the regular computational grid through precise and compact Dirichlet velocity schemes, without the need to recover for an adaptive boundary mesh or surface remesh, and without constraint of fluid volume conservation. The population “refill” of “fresh” fluid nodes, including sharp corners, is reformulated with the improved reconstruction algorithms by combining bulk and advanced boundary LBM steps with a local sub-iterative collision update. The efficient parallel LBM-DB simulations in silico then extend the physical experiments performed in vitro on the Dynamic Colon Model (DCM, 2020) to highly occlusive contractile waves. The motility scenarios are modeled both in a cylindrical tube and in a new geometry of “parabolic” transverse shape, which mimics the dynamics of realistic triangular lumen aperture. We examine the role of cross-sectional shape, motility pattern, occlusion scenario, peristaltic wave speed, elasticity effect, kinematic viscosity, inlet/outlet conditions and numerical compressibility on the temporal localization of pressure and velocity oscillations, and especially the ratio of retrograde vs antegrade velocity amplitudes, in relation to the major contractile events. The developed numerical approach could contribute to a better understanding of the intestinal physiology and pathology due to a possibility of its straightforward extension to the non-Newtonian chyme rheology and anatomical geometry.
Enhancing the Texture and Sensory Properties of Pickled Cucumbers with Different Brine Solutions
Authors: Yousefi Mahdieh , Arianfar Akram , Hakimzadeh Vahid , Rafe Ali
Published: January 2025

Softening of pickled cucumbers during storage poses significant challenges for the pickle industry, leading to considerable losses. This softening is attributed to the breakdown of pectic materials in the middle lamella of the cucumber tissue. To address this issue, our study aimed to assess the impact of various ions on cucumber pickle fermentation, storage (over 6 months), as well as overall structure and texture. Fermentation brines were prepared, incorporating different salts, such as KCl, CaCl2, MgCl2, AlCl3, and calcium acetate, at concentrations of 50, 100, 200, and 400 ppm, alongside 6% NaCl. Each month, we removed the pickles from the fermentation brines and analyzed their physicochemical and sensory properties. Our findings revealed that, when pH declined to 3.6, undesirable textural and sensory properties were observed in the pickled cucumbers. However, pickles treated with CaCl2 and calcium acetate exhibited higher pH levels compared to other samples after 6 months. Calcium ions demonstrated a positive effect on firmness, contributing to improved consumer acceptance during storage. Among the different salts tested, firmness followed the order of Ca(C2H3O2)2 > CaCl2 > KCl > MgCl2 > AlCl3. Furthermore, we observed a positive relationship between pickle firmness and crispness, as well as color values. The sensory evaluation affirmed the positive influence of Ca2+ on enhancing pickles’ firmness throughout their shelf-lives. Ca-acetate and CaCl2 displayed the most favorable results across sensory, textural, and physical properties among the samples. In conclusion, the addition of Ca-acetate in conjunction with CaCl2 was proven to be an effective approach in improving the firmness and extending the shelf-life of cucumber pickles. Our study highlights the potential of calcium ions to enhance the quality and durability of pickled cucumbers, offering promising implications for the pickle industry.
Enhancing Mezcal Production Efficiency by Adding an Inoculant of Native Saccharomyces cerevisiae to a Standardized Fermentation Must
Authors: Holguín-Loya Armando H. , Salazar-Herrera Adriana E. , Soto-Cruz Nicolas O. , Kirchmayr Manuel R. , Lopes Christian A. , Rojas-Contreras Juan A. , Páez-Lerma Jesús B.
Published: January 2025

All traditional mezcal producers use artisan methods to produce mezcal. The low technological development in the elaboration processes results in low yield and high residual sugar concentration. First, this work optimized the concentration of initial sugars and yeast-assimilable nitrogen (YAN) in Agave durangensis juice fermentation at the laboratory level. A yield near 0.49 g EtOH/g sugar and a productivity of 1.54 g EtOH/L*h was obtained with an initial sugar concentration of 120 g/L and a YAN concentration of 0.227 g/L. Only Saccharomyces cerevisiae was found after 24 h of incubation at laboratory level, using MALDI-TOF identification. Agave durangensis heads crushed by the artisan process were used to test the inoculant performance. A mezcal yield of 11.6 kg agave/L of mezcal was obtained using the S cerevisiae inoculant and nitrogen addition, which was significantly different (p < 0.05) from other treatments. The population dynamics during fermentation were analyzed through isolation and identification using MALDI-TOF. Several yeast species (Pichia kluyveri, Torulaspora delbrueckii, Zygosaccharomyces bailii, and Saccharomyces cerevisiae) were found at the beginning of fermentation. Nonetheless, only S. cerevisiae was found at the end of fermentation. The implantation of the inoculant used was confirmed through the comparative analysis of amplification patterns of the GTG5 microsatellite of the strains identified as S. cerevisiae, finding that the inoculated strain proportion was greater than 80% of the yeast population. A technological alternative to increase the efficiency of the process is combining the addition of YAN and the inoculation of the native S. cerevisiae, which was isolated from artisan alcoholic fermentation of agave to produce mezcal.
Regularity Results for Hybrid Proportional Operators on Hölder Spaces
Authors: Cichoń Mieczysław , Salem Hussein A. H. , Shammakh Wafa
Published: January 2025

Recently, a new type of derivative has been introduced, known as Caputo proportional derivatives. These are motivated by the applications of such derivatives (which are a generalization of Caputo’s standard fractional derivative) and the need to incorporate such calculus into the research on operators. The investigation therefore focuses on the equivalence of differential and integral problems for proportional calculus problems. The operators are always studied in the appropriate function spaces. Furthermore, the investigation extends these results to encompass the more general notion of Hilfer hybrid derivatives. The primary aim of this study is to preserve the maximal regularity of solutions for this class of problems. To this end, we consider such operators not only in spaces of absolutely continuous functions, but also in particular in little Hölder spaces. It is widely acknowledged that these spaces offer a natural framework for the study of classical Riemann–Liouville integral operators as inverse operators with derivatives of fractional order. This paper presents a comprehensive study of this problem for proportional derivatives and demonstrates the application of the obtained results to Langevin-type boundary problems.
The Role of the MTUS1 Gene in the Development of Left Ventricular Noncompaction Cardiomyopathy—A Case Report
Authors: Gorjanc Tevž , Šikonja Jaka , Drole Torkar Ana , Žerjav Tanšek Mojca , Kovač Jernej , Bertok Sara , Debeljak Maruša , Dolenc-Stražar Zvezdana , Meznarič Marija , Mlakar Jernej , Topalović Mirko , Mlakar Gorazd , Battelino Tadej , Grošelj Urh
Published: January 2025

Background/Objectives: The microtubule-associated scaffold protein 1 (MTUS1) gene affects the microtubule stability and cell polarity in the heart and could thus lead to the development of left ventricular noncompaction (LVNC). Pathological gene variants in MTUS1 are associated with pathological phenotypes in both cell cultures and animal models. However, the literature lacks human studies on the specific effects of the MTUS1 gene in heart disease, particularly in congenital LVNC. Methods: We present a case of a male infant, diagnosed with LVNC, who passed away at the age of 8 months due to end-stage heart failure. In the investigation process of the etiology of LVNC, whole-genome sequencing using next-generation sequencing was performed in the patient and his first-degree family members. Results: Genetic analysis identified two heterozygous variants in the MTUS1 gene (NM_001363059.2:c.87C>G and NM_001363059.2:c.2449+421_2288-425del) in the presented patient. The first variant introduced an early stop codon, while the second caused the deletion of an entire exon, both of which significantly altered the protein structure. The older brother of the patient, at the age of 5 years, was a carrier of both variants; however, he was asymptomatic and without signs of heart disease on cardiac ultrasonography. Conclusions: Although, in theory, defects in the MTUS1 gene may contribute to the development of LVNC, our observations indicate that MTUS1 variants alone are not sufficient to cause LVNC or lead to any significant developmental disorder. Additional factors, whether genetic or environmental, are likely necessary for the clinical manifestation of LVNC.