bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Who gets picked on and why? The politics of North Korea’s human rights recommendations in the universal periodic review
Authors: Jang Haeun , Woo Byungwon
Published: February 2025

The Universal Periodic Review (UPR) is a human rights mechanism under which all UN members are subject to human rights reviews by other states. Given that North Korea is among the worst human rights violators globally, human rights practitioners and academic research have paid much attention to North Korea as a State under Review (SUR). What is much less known and researched is that North Korea actively engages as a ‘reviewer’, regularly making human rights recommendations to other UN members. Using UPR data from 2008 to 2020, this study explores the political dynamics of North Korean human rights recommendations by identifying to whom North Korea makes recommendations and why. We theorize that North Korea utilizes the UPR as a political arena wherein it pats on the back of politically close states and tries to shame politically antagonistic states. Empirical analysis shows that political closeness with North Korea is the main driver influencing its back-patting and shaming efforts in the UPR. Specifically, politically distant states from North Korea, measured by the UN General Assembly voting affinity and presence of unilateral economic sanctions, receive more condemnations and fewer back-patting recommendations. We also demonstrate that North Korea has become much more active over time in their shaming efforts. These findings suggest that even an isolated country like North Korea can learn how to operate in an international institution and can utilize it strategically.
Representing the Social Problem of Dementia: Reflexions on Carol Bacchi’s What Is the Problem Represented to Be Approach
Authors: Iliffe Steve , Manthorpe Jill
Published: February 2025

Dementia is represented as a condition deserving urgent policy attention. In the United Kingdom (UK) substantial resources have been invested in it, including in earlier intervention and in basic science. This selective narrative review explores England’s national dementia policy and practices. It uses Bacchi’s framework of questions, grounded in a Foucauldian understanding of governmentality, to understand how policy initiatives, service re-orientation and lobbying campaigns shape dementia as a problem. This ‘What is the Problem Represented to Be’ (WPR) analytic approach helps explain why prevention has often been overlooked and reminds us that not all ‘stakeholders’ have the same motivations. Our preliminary conclusions are that Bacchi’s approach does elucidate the representation of dementia and illuminates how a ‘medicalindustrial-charity-complex’ shapes the representation of dementia. Bacchi’s approach could be used to construct an agenda for change in dementia research and care.
Gene-Environment Interplay in the Relationship Between Gaming Addiction and Close Friends’ Gaming
Authors: Hur Yoon-Mi
Published: February 2025

Both peer influences and genetics have been linked to gaming addiction (GA) in adolescents and young adults. This study examined the gene-environment interplay (gene-environment correlation [rGE] and gene-environment interaction [G x E]) between close friends’ gaming (CFG) and GA among South Korean twins. A total of 1462 twins aged 15–29 years (mean = 22.63 ± 2.8 years) completed an online survey that included a 20-item GA measure and a single item assessing CFG. Bivariate Cholesky model-fitting analysis was conducted to examine evidence for rGE in the relationship between GA and CFG. Bivariate G x E model-fitting analysis was performed to determine evidence for G x E effects. A significant genetic correlation (rg = .37; 95% CI [0.24, 0.49]) between GA and CFG supported the role of gene-environment correlation, suggesting that individuals with a genetic predisposition for GA may selectively associate with peers who frequently engage in gaming. The model testing G x E effects indicated that environment-environment interaction was present in the relationship between CFG and GA, such that CFG increased nonshared environmental effects on GA. This pattern provided evidence for peer socialization effects, wherein peers influence the development of GA independently of genetic risk.
Challenges in Unifying Physically Based and Machine Learning Simulations Through Differentiable Modeling: A Land Surface Case Study
Authors: Ahmad Shahryar K. , Kumar Sujay V. , Draper Clara , Reichle Rolf H.
Published: February 2025

Differentiable geoscientific modeling has shown promise for leveraging machine learning (ML) to unify physically based and data‐based modeling. Here, we critically analyze this promise in the context of large‐scale parameter optimization with the Noah‐MP land model as an example. The differentiable parameter learning framework is used to calibrate Noah‐MP soil and vegetation parameters such that the simulated surface soil moisture better matches satellite observations over the contiguous US. We found that the optimized parameters only marginally improved soil moisture (average RMSE = 0.092 m3 m−3) upon uncalibrated Noah‐MP (RMSE = 0.10 m3 m−3). Scaling and bias correction factors, often used in ML approaches for enhancing generalizability, were found to limit the transferability of the optimized physical parameters to the land model. The global objective function further compromises the algorithm's ability to simultaneously capture contrasting moisture regimes. Addressing these challenges is necessary to advance ML‐based calibration frameworks to better learn and represent the constraints of the physical model.
SETD1A-dependent EME1 transcription drives PARPi sensitivity in HR deficient tumour cells
Authors: Sweatman Ellie , Bayley Rachel , Selemane Richad , Higgs Martin R.
Published: February 2025

Background

Cells deficient in DNA repair factors breast cancer susceptibility 1/2 (BRCA1/2) or ataxia-telangiectasia mutated (ATM) are sensitive to poly-ADP ribose polymerase (PARP) inhibitors. Building on our previous findings, we asked how the lysine methyltransferase SETD1A contributed to PARP inhibitor-mediated cell death in these contexts and determined the mechanisms responsible.

Methods

We used cervical, breast, lung and ovarian cancer cells bearing mutations in BRCA1 or ATM and depleted SETD1A using siRNA or CRISPR/Cas9. We assessed the effects of the PARPi Olaparib on cell viability, homologous recombination, and DNA repair. We assessed underlying transcriptional perturbations using RNAseq. We used The Cancer Genomics Atlas (TCGA) and DepMap to investigate patient survival and cancer cell characteristics.

Results

Loss of SETD1A from both BRCA1-deficient and ATM-deficient cancer cells was associated with resistance to Olaparib, explained by partial restoration of homologous recombination. Mechanistically, SETD1A-dependent transcription of the crossover junction endonuclease EME1 correlated with sensitivity to Olaparib in these cells. Accordingly, when SETD1A or EME1 was lost, BRCA1 or ATM-mutated cells became resistant to Olaparib, and homologous recombination was partially restored.

Conclusions

Loss of SETD1A or EME1 drives cellular resistance to Olaparib in certain genetic contexts and may help explain why patients develop resistance to PARP inhibitors in the clinic.
Another common genetic ataxia in South Korea: Spinocerebellar ataxia 36
Authors: Ahn Jong Hyeon , Lee Seungbok , Moon Jangsup , Han Yoojung , Chang Hyeshik , Youn Jinyoung , Cho Jin Whan , Jang Ja-Hyun
Published: February 2025

Spinocerebellar ataxias (SCAs) represent a diverse group of neurodegenerative disorders characterized by progressive cerebellar ataxia. In South Korea, diagnostic laboratories typically focus on common SCA subtypes, leaving the prevalence of rare SCAs uncertain. This study aimed to explore the frequency of rarer forms of SCA, including SCA10, 12, 31, and 36 utilizing molecular techniques including long-read sequencing (LRS). Patients from ataxia cohorts who remained undiagnosed after testing for common genetic ataxias (SCA1, 2, 3, 6, 7, 8 17, and dentatorubral-pallidoluysian atrophy) were analyzed, along with unselected ataxia patients referred for screening of common SCAs. Expanded alleles for SCA10, 12, 31, and 36 were investigated through allele-length PCR, repeat-primed PCR, and LRS. Among 78 patients from 67 families with undiagnosed cerebellar ataxia, SCA36 was identified in 8 families (11.9%), while SCA10, 12, or 31 were not found. In unselected ataxia, SCA36 was present in 1.0% (1/99). Korean SCA36 patients exhibited clinical characteristics similar to global reports, with a higher incidence of hyperreflexia. The haplotype of expanded alleles identified in LRS was consistent among SCA36 patients. The findings indicate that SCA36 accounts for 11.9% of diagnoses after excluding common SCAs and 1.0% in unselected ataxia patients. The study underscores the prevalence of SCA36 in South Korea and emphasizes the potential of LRS as a diagnostic tool for this condition. Integrating LRS into diagnostic protocol could enhance diagnostic efficacy, particularly in populations with a high prevalence of SCA36 like South Korea. Further research is necessary to standardize LRS for routine clinical application.
Co-option and neofunctionalization of stomatal executors for defence against herbivores in Brassicales
Authors: Shirakawa Makoto , Oguro Tomoki , Sugano Shigeo S. , Yamaoka Shohei , Sagara Mayu , Tanida Mai , Sunuma Kyoko , Iwami Takuya , Nakanishi Tatsuyoshi , Horiuchi Keita , Kumaishi Kie , Yoshida Soma , Watanabe Mutsumi , Tohge Takayuki , Suzuki Takamasa , Ichihashi Yasunori , Takemiya Atsushi , Yamaguchi Nobutoshi , Kohchi Takayuki , Ito Toshiro
Published: February 2025

Co-option of gene regulatory networks leads to the acquisition of new cell types and tissues. Stomata, valves formed by guard cells (GCs), are present in most land plants and regulate CO2 exchange. The transcription factor (TF) FAMA globally regulates GC differentiation. In the Brassicales, FAMA also promotes the development of idioblast myrosin cells (MCs), another type of specialized cell along the vasculature essential for Brassicales-specific chemical defences. Here we show that in Arabidopsis thaliana, FAMA directly induces the TF gene WASABI MAKER (WSB), which triggers MC differentiation. WSB and STOMATAL CARPENTER 1 (SCAP1, a stomatal lineage-specific direct FAMA target), synergistically promote GC differentiation. wsb mutants lacked MCs and the wsb scap1 double mutant lacked normal GCs. Evolutionary analyses revealed that WSB is conserved across stomatous angiosperms. We propose that the conserved and reduced transcriptional FAMA–WSB module was co-opted before evolving to induce MC differentiation.
Deep structured learning with vision intelligence for oral carcinoma lesion segmentation and classification using medical imaging
Authors: Alzahrani Ahmad A. , Alsamri Jamal , Maashi Mashael , Negm Noha , Asklany Somia A. , Alkharashi Abdulwhab , Alkhiri Hassan , Obayya Marwa
Published: February 2025

Oral carcinoma (OC) is a toxic illness among the most general malignant cancers globally, and it has developed a gradually significant public health concern in emerging and low-to-middle-income states. Late diagnosis, high incidence, and inadequate treatment strategies remain substantial challenges. Analysis at an initial phase is significant for good treatment, prediction, and existence. Despite the current growth in the perception of molecular devices, late analysis and methods near precision medicine for OC patients remain a challenge. A machine learning (ML) model was employed to improve early detection in medicine, aiming to reduce cancer-specific mortality and disease progression. Recent advancements in this approach have significantly enhanced the extraction and diagnosis of critical information from medical images. This paper presents a Deep Structured Learning with Vision Intelligence for Oral Carcinoma Lesion Segmentation and Classification (DSLVI-OCLSC) model for medical imaging. Using medical imaging, the DSLVI-OCLSC model aims to enhance OC’s classification and recognition outcomes. To accomplish this, the DSLVI-OCLSC model utilizes wiener filtering (WF) as a pre-processing technique to eliminate the noise. In addition, the ShuffleNetV2 method is used for the group of higher-level deep features from an input image. The convolutional bidirectional long short-term memory network with a multi-head attention mechanism (MA-CNN‐BiLSTM) approach is utilized for oral carcinoma recognition and identification. Moreover, the Unet3 + is employed to segment abnormal regions from the classified images. Finally, the sine cosine algorithm (SCA) approach is utilized to hyperparameter-tune the DL model. A wide range of simulations is implemented to ensure the enhanced performance of the DSLVI-OCLSC method under the OC images dataset. The experimental analysis of the DSLVI-OCLSC method portrayed a superior accuracy value of 98.47% over recent approaches.
Optimizing depression detection in clinical doctor-patient interviews using a multi-instance learning framework
Authors: Zhang Xu , Li Chenlong , Chen Weisi , Zheng Jiaxin , Li Feihong
Published: February 2025

In recent years, the number of people suffering from depression has gradually increased, and early detection is of great significance for the well-being of the public. However, the current methods for detecting depression are relatively limited, typically relying on the self-rating depression scale (SDS) and interviews. These methods are influenced by subjective or environmental factors. To improve the objectivity and efficiency of diagnosis, deep learning techniques have been applied to the field of automatic depression detection (ADD), providing a more accurate and objective approach. During interviews, transcribed interview data is one of the most commonly used modalities in ADD. However, previous studies have only utilized response texts or selected question–answer pairs, resulting in information redundancy and loss. This paper is the first to apply the multiple instance learning (MIL) framework to the field of textual interview data, aiming to overcome issues of inadequate text representation and ineffective information extraction in long texts. In the MIL framework, each instance undergoes an independent feature extraction process, ensuring that the local features of each instance are fully captured. This not only enhances the overall text representation capability but also alleviates the issue of sample imbalance in the dataset. Additionally, this paper improves upon previous aggregation strategies by introducing two hyper-parameters to accommodate the uncertainties in the field of text sentiment. An ensemble model of MT5 and RoBERTa (referred to as multi-MTRB) was constructed to extract features from each instance and output confidence scores indicating the presence of depressive information in the instances. Due to the unique design of the MIL framework, the proposed method is highly interpretable and is able to identify specific sentences that identify people from depressed patients, while introducing LIME techniques to provide more in-depth interpretation of negative instance sentences. This provides a promising approach for depression detection in the context of text interview data patterns. We evaluated the proposed method on DAIC-WOZ and E-DAIC datasets with excellent results. The F1 score is 0.88 on the DAIC-WOZ dataset and 0.86 on the E-DAIC dataset.
Mindfulness-based stress reduction as perceived by individuals with pathological mental fatigue after an acquired brain injury
Authors: Glavå Gustaf , Johansson Birgitta
Published: February 2025

After acquired brain injury (ABI), some individuals suffer from long-term fatigue and emotional distress, which affects their work ability and daily life. Mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) has shown promising results in quantitative studies as a complementary treatment for pathological mental fatigue (PMF) after ABI. This study aims to explore how people suffering from lasting PMF after ABI experience MBSR in relation to their PMF, with the intention of better meeting the rehabilitation needs of those affected. Seven individuals (mean age 42 years) who had suffered from long-lasting PMF after ABI took part in the study. None of them had resumed work due to their PMF, but all had recovered from neurological impairments. They were interviewed after completing an MBSR course. Thematic analysis of the participants’ perspectives suggested that the MBSR program provided them with coping techniques for living with PMF. They gained a deeper understanding of their condition becoming more self-compassionate, and the treatment provided them with a forum for meeting and sharing experiences with others with similar problems. The qualitative results strengthen the evidence for MBSR as a feasible psychoeducative complementary treatment for PMF after ABI.
Optimizing irrigation and nitrogen levels to achieve sustainable rice productivity and profitability
Authors: Mir Mohd Salim , Raja Waseem , Kanth Raihana Habib , Dar Eajaz Ahmad , Shah Zahoor Ahmad , Bhat Mohammad Anwar , Mir Aamir Hassan , Wani Fehim Jeelani , Bhat Tauseef A. , Bhat Javid Ahmad , Summuna Baby , Fayaz Umer , Fayaz Suhail , Bhat Bilal Ahmad , Al‑Ansari Nadhir , Mattar Mohamed A. , Salem Ali
Published: February 2025

The global scarcity of irrigation water poses a significant challenge to the sustainable production of rice and its availability worldwide. With a growing population driving increased demand for rice, it is crucial to enhance rice production while minimizing water usage. Achieving this requires a comprehensive understanding of the complex interactions between water and nitrogen dynamics and the formulation of strategies to optimize the application of irrigation water and nitrogen fertilizers. This study aims to investigate the impact of varying irrigation regimes and nitrogen application rates on rice growth attributes, yield performance, overall crop productivity, and economic returns. In the 2021 and 2022 rice growing season, two field experiments were carried out in split plot design with four nitrogen levels in sub plots [N0: Control, N1: 75% RDN (Recommended dose of nitrogen; @ 120 kg N ha−1), N2: 100% RDN, and N3: 125% RDN] and four irrigation treatments in main plots [I1: recommended irrigation scheduling, I2: at field capacity (20 L m−2), I3: 10% depletion from field capacity (20 L m−2), and I4: 20% depletion from field capacity (20 L m−2). The experiments were replicated three times. The suggested irrigation scheduling treatment (flooded) showed improved growth characteristics, such as plant height, dry matter accumulation, leaf area index, tiller count, SPAD (Soil Plant Analysis Development) value, NDVI (Normalized Difference Vegetation Index) value, leaf relative water content, and yield attributes; however, these were comparable to the application of irrigation water at field capacity. Due to improved plant growth and yield-attributing characteristics, the I1 treatment recorded the highest grain yield of 8.58 t ha−1 and 8.4 t ha−1, although it was comparable to the I2 treatment, which had grain yields of 8.27 t ha−1 and 8.15 t ha−1 in 2021 and 2022. The grain yield reported by the N3 treatment were significantly greater than those of the N2 treatment, IN 2021 and 2022 respectively. Applying nitrogen at 125% RDN (Recommended dose of nitrogen) and irrigation water at field capacity produced the highest benefit–cost ratio (1.64), which was closely followed by the same irrigation regime and 100% RDN application (1.60 BC ratio). Comparable to irrigation at field capacity, the suggested irrigation schedule demonstrated enhanced growth features, yield attributes, productivity, and profitability. The best way to achieve the optimum growth, productivity, and profitability in transplanted rice was to provide irrigation water at field capacity and nitrogen @ 100% RDN.
Exposure and survival of wild raptors during the 2022–2023 highly pathogenic influenza a virus outbreak
Authors: Rayment Kelsey M. , Franzen-Klein Dana , Kurimo-Beechuk Elizabeth , Poulson Rebecca L. , Brown Justin , Mendoza Kristelle , Etterson Matthew , Nicoletti Frank , Cardona Carol , Stallknecht David E. , Hall Victoria
Published: February 2025

The global outbreak of clade 2.3.4.4b H5N1 highly pathogenic influenza A virus (HP H5N1) has had an unprecedented impact on wild birds including raptors, but long-term population impacts have not been addressed. To determine if raptors survive infections with HP H5N1, raptors from the upper Midwest United States were serologically tested for antibodies to influenza A virus (IAV), H5 and N1. Raptors were sampled at The Raptor Center’s (University of Minnesota) wildlife rehabilitation hospital and at Hawk Ridge Bird Observatory. Samples were tested for IAV antibodies using a commercially available blocking ELISA, with positive samples tested for antibodies to H5 and N1. Antibodies to IAV were detected in 86 out of 316 individuals representing 7 species. Antibodies to H5 and N1 were detected in 60 individuals representing 6 species. Bald eagles had the highest seroprevalence with 67/97 (69.1%) seropositive for IAV and 52 of these 67 (77.6%) testing positive for antibodies to both H5 and N1. Prevalence of antibodies to IAV observed in this study was higher than reported from raptors sampled in this same region in 2012. The high prevalence of antibodies to H5 and N1 indicates a higher survival rate post-HP H5N1 infection in raptors than previously believed.
Nanomolar inhibitor of the galectin-8 N-terminal domain binds via a non-canonical cation-π interaction
Authors: Purić Edvin , Hassan Mujtaba , Sjövall Fredrik , Tomašič Tihomir , Pevec Mojca , Lah Jurij , Forteza Jaume Adrover , Sundin Anders , Leffler Hakon , Nilsson Ulf J. , Logan Derek T. , Anderluh Marko
Published: February 2025

Galectin-8 is a tandem-repeat galectin consisting of two distinct carbohydrate recognition domains and is a potential drug target. We have developed a library of galectin-8N inhibitors that exhibit high nanomolar K
d values as determined by a competitive fluorescence polarization assay. A detailed thermodynamic analysis of the binding of d-galactosides to galectin-8N by isothermal titration calorimetry reveals important differences in enthalpic and/or entropic contributions to binding. Contrary to expectations, the binding of 2-O-propargyl-d-galactoside was found to strongly increase the binding enthalpy, whereas the binding of 2-O-carboxymethylene-d-galactoside was surprisingly less enthalpy-driven. The results of our work suggest that the ethynyl group can successfully replace the carboxylate group when targeting the water-exposed guanidine moiety of a critical arginine residue. This results in only a minor loss of affinity and an adjusted enthalpic contribution to the overall binding due to non-canonical cation-π interactions, as evidenced by the obtained crystal structure of 2-O-propargyl-d-galactoside in complex with the N-terminal domain of galectin-8. Such an interaction has neither been identified nor discussed to date in a small-molecule ligand-protein complex.
Modular in vivo assembly of Arabidopsis FCA oligomers into condensates competent for RNA 3’ processing
Authors: Jang Geng-Jen , Payne-Dwyer Alex L , Maple Robert , Wu Zhe , Liu Fuquan , Lopez Sergio G , Wang Yanning , Fang Xiaofeng , Leake Mark C , Dean Caroline
Published: February 2025

Our understanding of the functional requirements underpinning biomolecular condensation in vivo is still relatively poor. The Arabidopsis RNA binding protein FLOWERING CONTROL LOCUS A (FCA) is found in liquid-like nuclear condensates that function in transcription termination, promoting proximal polyadenylation at many target genes in the Arabidopsis genome. To further understand the properties of these condensates in vivo, we used single-particle tracking experiments on FCA reporters stably expressed at endogenous levels in plant nuclei. SEC-MALS analyses suggested that FCA forms a core oligomer consistent with a size of four molecules; in vivo particle tracking indicated that this core molecule multimerizes into higher-order particles. The ensuing assemblies coalesce into macromolecular condensates via the coiled-coil protein FLL2, which is genetically required for FCA function. Accordingly, FLL2 predominately co-localizes with FCA in larger-sized condensates. A missense mutation in the FCA RRM domain, also genetically required for FCA function, reduced average size of both FCA particles and condensates, but did not perturb the core oligomer. Our work points to a modular structure for FCA condensates, involving multimerization of core oligomers assembled into functional macromolecular condensates via associated RNA and FLL2 interactions.
Biochemical investigations using mass spectrometry to monitor JMJD6-catalysed hydroxylation of multi-lysine containing bromodomain-derived substrates
Authors: Corner Thomas , Saleh Eidarus , Tumber Anthony , Brewitz Lennart , Schofield Christopher J
Published: February 2025

Jumonji-C domain-containing protein 6 (JMJD6) is a human 2-oxoglutarate (2OG)/Fe(II)-dependent oxygenase catalysing post-translational C5 hydroxylation of multiple lysine residues, including in the tandem bromodomain-containing proteins BRD2, BRD3 and BRD4. The...
Two-dimensional (P/T) studies of secondary/tertiary conformational dynamics in nucleic acids: pressure induced melting and Maxwell relations at the single molecule level
Authors: Sung Hsuan-Lei , Nesbitt David J.
Published: February 2025

Maxwell relation validated at the single molecule level. The detailed thermodynamics of nucleic acid conformational changes are systematically investigated using P/T-controlled single molecule FRET experiments.
Distribution and risk assessment of antibiotic resistance genes in swine farm wastewater and its surrounding environments: from soil to water
Authors: Ma Haiyue , Du Jinping , Xu Ting , Yin Daqiang , Fang Xiaoling , Guo Xueping
Published: February 2025

A significant correlation between the relative abundances of ARGs and MGEs in a swine farm and its surrounding environments was found.
Synergism between Gradient Dilution Work Function and Janus Electronic State of Pt-CoPxBr1-x for Boosting Alkaline Seawater electrolysis
Authors: Jin Lei , Xu Hui , Wang Kun , Liu Yang , Chen Jie , Qian Xingyue , Chen Haiqun , He Guangyu
Published: February 2025

Hydrogen spillover (HSo) effect of metal-supported electrocatalysts via electronic interactions can remarkably influence their performance in hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). It needs electron-rich supporting metals to promote the adsorption/spillover of...
Pulsatile-flow culture: a novel system for assessing vascular-cell dynamics
Authors: Salimi-Afjani Neda , Rieben Robert , Obrist Dominik
Published: February 2025

A simple, scalable, economical and well-characterized system for investigating vascular mural cells under physiological conditions with pulsatile shear stress, advancing vascular research and translational studies.
Significantly enhanced photocatalytic degradation towards tetracycline hydrochloride in BiVO4via surface defect engineering
Authors: Qian Lv , Xiong Junfu , Li Xicheng , Ji Bicheng , Wang Changzheng
Published: February 2025

Defective BiVO4 with oxygen vacancies was synthesized via hydrothermal method. Oxygen vacancies modulate band structure, enhance light absorption, and create internal electric fields to boost carrier separation.
Bi-functionality of organic acids as acid catalysts and hydrogen source for one-pot production of secondary amines from primary amines and aromatic aldehydes over an Au-C3N4 photocatalyst
Authors: Kominami Hiroshi , Liu Xiangru , Tanaka Atsuhiro
Published: February 2025

Carbon nitride modified with a gold (Au) cocatalyst (Au-C3N4) was utilized in a one-pot synthesis of N-phenylbenzylamine (PBA) from benzaldehyde (BAD) and aniline (AN) in the presence of an organic...
ZnO functionalized paraffin/diatomite phase change material and its thermal management mechanism in PDMS coatings
Authors: Liu Xinye , Hou Xueyan , Yan Longxin , Zhang Yuqi , Wang Ji-Jiang
Published: February 2025

A novel ZnO functionalized PA/F-DE/ZnO with enhanced thermal conductivity, anti-leakage and UV-adsorption was developed. It showed a potential application in the thermal management of computer, phone, and other coatings.
Chemoselective synthesis of tunable poly-functionalized binary pyrazolyl and annulated pyrazolo/pyrido anchored on quinolinone: insecticidal and antioxidant studies
Authors: Elnaggar Nedaa N. , Hamama Wafaa S. , El Salam M. Abd , Ghaith Eslam A.
Published: February 2025

Several fused/binary pyrazole quinolinone hybrids are synthesized via tandem reactions and their insecticidal efficacy against S. littoralis and A. gossypii are evaluated.
Rapid and efficient removal of Sr2+ ions by the easy-to-operate and environmentally friendly KInSnS4@collagen fibers aerogel
Authors: He Jiang-Hai , Tang Jun-Hao , Zhang Ming-Dong , Lv Chuan , Yang Lu , Chen Zhi-Hua , Liu Yi , Sun Hai-Yan , Feng Mei-Ling , Huang Xiao-Ying
Published: February 2025

It is still a challenge to capture radioactive 90Sr2+ ions conveniently, quickly, and efficiently from complex aqueous solutions. Herein, a composite material, KInSnS4@CFs aerogel (CFs = collagen fibers), was prepared...
Mechanistic Insights and Optimization Strategies for Perovskite Single-Crystal Thin Film Growth
Authors: Sun Jingyi , Li Runda , Gui Yang , Shao Xinyi , Xue Jingjing , Wang Rui
Published: February 2025

Perovskite materials, with their tunable band gaps, high optical absorption, and excellent carrier mobility, are key candidates for lasers, LEDs, photodetectors, and solar cells. Polycrystalline thin films dominate current applications...
Effect of molecule adsorption on conductivity of selectively grown interconnected 2D-MoS2 atomically thin flakes structures
Authors: Stavarache Ionel , Palade Catalin , Slav Adrian , Dascalescu Ioana , Lepadatu Ana-Maria , Matei Elena , Besleaga Cristina , Ciurea Magdalena Lidia , Kardynal Beata , Stoica Toma
Published: February 2025

Gas sensitivity of field-effect structures with 2D-MoS2 channels selectively grown between Mo electrodes by Mo-CVD method has been investigated by measuring the effect of molecular adsorption from air on the...
Yolk–shell SnSe2@NC nanocubes: synergistic interior void and spatial confinement for superior sodium-ion battery anodes
Authors: Du Yanan , Wu Zhilong , Wang Siying , Sun Ran , Lin Zhiya , Jia Hai , Huang Xiaohui , Ying Shaoming , Huang Zhiqiang
Published: February 2025

We illustrate the yolk–shell structure of SnSe2@NC, highlighting its robust architecture for stable sodium storage. At a high current density of 5 A g−1, it delivers an impressive capacity, demonstrating its superior performance as an SIB anode.
Incorporating hyperaccumulating plants in phytomining, remediation and resource recovery: recent trends in the African region – a review
Authors: Akinbile Babatunde Joseph , Mbohwa Charles
Published: February 2025

Phytomining, the extraction of valuable metals from soil or waste substrates using plants, has gained increasing attention as a sustainable and economically viable alternative to conventional mining practices.
Continuum reverberation mapping of accretion disks depending on the vertical structures in active galactic nuclei
Authors: Wang Yi-Lin , Liu Jun-Rong , Wang Jian-Min
Published: February 2025

Reverberation mapping (RM) of accretion disks is a powerful tool for probing the radial structures of active galactic nuclei (AGNs). Recent RM campaigns involving a dozen AGNs have revealed that the measured sizes of the accretion disks are 2-3 times larger than those predicted by the Shakura-Sunyaev disk model. In this study, we present a self-consistent model that accounts for the vertical structures and radiation transfer of accretion disks across multiple radii, which produces photons that are not fully thermalized. Our findings demonstrate that the observed discrepancies between the predictions of the Shakura-Sunyaev model and the RM-measured radii can be explained well by the present model. The results indicate that the derived effective radii are sensitive to the dimensionless accretion rates, less influenced by the black hole masses and independent of the inclination. Combining black hole masses and accretion rates measured from RM of broad-lines and continuum respectively, inclination angles of accretion disks can be obtained by fitting the spectral energy distributions (SEDs) of AGNs avoiding high degeneracy of the three parameters. We apply the present model to the mapped AGNs and find some AGNs are explained very well but others are not well for SEDs likely due to inaccurate estimation of black hole masses with large uncertainties of virial factor f, model applicability, SED contamination and mismatches between the SED and continuum RM observation periods.
The J-PAS survey: The effect of photometric redshift errors on cosmic voids
Authors: Mansour J.A. , Liivamägi L.J. , Tamm A. , Laur J. , Abramo R. ,   et al.
Published: February 2025

We investigated the impact of photometric redshift errors in the ongoing Javalambre Physics of the Accelerating Universe Astrophysical Survey (J-PAS) on void identification and void properties using a watershed-based method. Our aim is to assess the recovery of individual voids and the overall void environment. We created galaxy mock catalogues for a redshift of z = 0.1, using the IllustrisTNG300-1 simulation and defining two datasets: an ideal sample (m_r < 21 mag) and a perturbed sample with the Z-coordinate errors mimicking J-PAS's line-of-sight errors, derived from the precursor miniJPAS survey data. We identified voids using the watershed algorithm ZOBOV. We found 1065 voids in the ideal sample and 2558 voids in the perturbed sample. The perturbed sample voids have, on average, smaller sizes and denser interiors. We filtered out voids based on density and radius to eliminate overdense and small spurious instances. The stacked density profile of filtered voids in the perturbed sample remains close to the average density, even at the boundary peak, indicating a strong blurring of structures by the redshift errors. The number of the ideal sample voids for which at least $50%$ of the volume is recovered by a void in the perturbed sample is 53 (29 for the filtered sample). The volume occupied by these voids is less than $10%$ of the simulation volume. Merging voids in the perturbed sample marginally improves the recovery. The overall volumes defined as voids in the two samples have an overlap of $80%$, making up $61%$ of the simulation box volume. While some statistical properties of voids might be recovered sufficiently well, the watershed algorithms may not be optimal for recovering the large-scale structure voids if they are applied directly to photometric redshift survey data.
Comparative Study of Immobilization Protocols after Arthroscopic Suture of Peripheral and Foveal TFCC Injuries: A Cohort Study of 387 Patients
Authors: Dufournier Benjamin , Baudouin Edouard , Mathoulin Christophe , Gras Mathilde , Arnaout Ahlam , de Villeneuve Bargemon Jean-Baptiste , Merlini Lorenzo
Published: February 2025

Introduction The triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC) is the main stabilizer of the distal radio-ulnar joint. There is a wide disparity in postoperative immobilization after arthroscopic suturing of the TFCC. Moreover, there are no studies focused specifically on the subject.

Hypothesis Because of its effect on pronosupination, we can ask ourselves whether immobilization of the elbow (during part or all of the immobilization) after arthroscopic suture of the TFCC is necessary.

Materials and Methods We performed a single-center, retrospective, comparative study with an inclusion period of January 2015 to December 2021. The lesions were classified according to the Atzei classification with peripheral or foveal lesions. Patients were divided into three groups based on postoperative immobilization. We compared the postoperative results of arthroscopic suturing of the TFCC of peripheral and proximal lesions according to three methods of immobilization (6 weeks wrist immobilization [group 1]), 3 weeks wrist and elbow immobilization then 3 weeks wrist immobilization [group 2], and 6 weeks wrist and elbow immobilization [group 3]). The primary outcome was the QuickDASH (disabilities of the arm, shoulder, and hand), and as secondary outcomes, range of motion (°), grip strength (kg), pain (numeric rating scale [NRS]), the presence of distal radioulnar joint (DRUJ) instability, and postoperative complications were analyzed. After the operation, the patients were systematically followed up at 3 months, 6 months, and 1 year. The data collected are at 1 year of postoperative follow-up.

Results We included 387 patients in our study, with an average age of 32.6 years. A total of 302 peripheral lesions and 85 foveal lesions were included. Concerning the “peripheral” population, the difference in the QuickDASH was significantly different between the three groups with a greater improvement in group 2. Group 2 differed from the others in having less postoperative pain but less recovery of grip strength and flexion. Concerning the “foveal” population, the difference in the QuickDASH was significantly different between the three groups, with a greater improvement in group 1 with lower pain in this group.

Discussion With the results of this study, we propose to carry out an immobilization of 3 weeks wrist and elbow then 3 weeks only wrist for the peripheral lesions, and an immobilization 6 weeks of the pronosupination for the foveal lesions of TFCC.

Level of Evidence IV.
Reliability of a Standardized Ultrasound Protocol for the Diagnosis of Thoracic Outlet Syndrome
Authors: Stegemann Emilia , Larbig Jana , Portig Irene , Weiske Nadine , Bürger Thomas , Stegemann Berthold
Published: February 2025

Arterial thoracic outlet syndrome (aTOS) is a rare condition, but if undiagnosed, it can have serious consequences for affected patients, up to and including limb loss. Ultrasound could be used here as a widely available method for screening, but it is said to have very high investigator dependence. The fact that ultrasound can be used safely for diagnostic purposes has already been demonstrated. The aim of this study was to evaluate the repeatability of a standardized examination for the diagnosis of aTOS.

We recruited inpatients with high-grade suspected arterial thoracic outlet syndrome who were evaluated for invasive therapy at our TOS center. Routine diagnostics were performed according to clinic standards. In addition, 2 sonographers, one highly experienced and one less experienced, performed ultrasound diagnosis according to a standardized protocol. Image acquisition and interpretation were performed independently, and sonographers were mutually blinded. For analysis, the experienced sonographer served as a reference. Agreement between assessors was analyzed using concordance analysis.

51 consecutive patients (67% female) aged 39.3±13.0 years were included within 11 months. The standardized ultrasound protocol could be performed in all patients. The prevalence of TOS was high (79.4%; CI: 71.4–87.3%) in our cohort. Ultrasound inter-rater agreement using the standardized protocol was very good at 0.820 (CI: 0.624–1.000).

Ultrasound diagnosis of TOS using a standardized protocol can be performed effectively and shows a high agreement between 2 sonographers.
Descending the Reconstruction Ladder: Single-Stage Full-Thickness Skin Grafting for Wide Nasal Skin Malignant Defects
Authors: Villegas-Alzate Francisco J. , Cabezas-Charry Ana G. , Cardona Víctor A. , Ayala Juan F. , Villegas José D.
Published: February 2025

Background Complex nasal reconstructions traditionally use staged flaps, with skin grafts reserved for smaller defects.

Objective This study evaluates single-stage full-thickness skin grafting (FTSG) for wide nasal defects postcancer resection.

Materials and Methods A retrospective analysis included 52 patients with nasal malignant lesions limited to the skin, reconstructed in a single stage immediately after cancer resections. Defects were intentionally over- or downsized to align with the esthetic unit concept. Templates of the defects were used to harvest FTSG. All donor areas were closed primarily. The graft was carefully sutured to fit the defect, and bolsters were applied for 5 to 12 days. Postoperative taping was used for 4 months. Postoperative photographs were assessed by 92 independent raters using a visual analog scale evaluating five parameters: skin color matching, surface regularity, symmetry, perimetral contours, and overall nasal appearance. Results and complications were analyzed for statistical associations.

Results On average, 3.5 of 9 nasal units per patient were reconstructed, covering 55.5% of the nasal surface. Local anesthesia was used in 90.4% of cases. Periclavicular and retroauricular donor sites were used in 61.5 and 34.6% of cases, respectively. Evaluators rated the outcomes at an average of 7.1/10 (range 5.1–8.8). The complication rate was 15.4%. No significant correlations were found between the outcomes and the analyzed factors.

Conclusion FTSG effectively reconstructs wide nasal defects in a single stage, predominantly under local anesthesia, with satisfactory outcomes. This approach signifies a descent down the reconstruction ladder, shifting from complex, flap-staged methods to a single-stage solution.
Comparision of a Glove-Based Dressing Regimen with Conventional Dressings in Treatment of Superficial Partial-Thickness and Small Deep-Dermal Hand Burns
Authors: Chalwade Chandrashekhar Subhash , Teja Mudunuri Ravi , Mago Raghav , Sawant Abhijeet D.
Published: February 2025

Background In cases of burns affecting the hand, minimizing morbidity and disability is crucial. Early mobilization is essential to prevent persistent contractures and optimize functional outcomes by gradually improving range of motion. The purpose of this study was to determine the efficacy of a glove-based dressing regimen in treating superficial partial-thickness and small deep-dermal hand burns compared to conventional dressings.

Materials and Methods This study was conducted in a burn department affiliated with a tertiary care center over a period of 1 year between January 2018 and December 2018. A total of 75 digits (23 hands of 14 patients) were included in the study with 38 under a case group and 37 under a control group. The primary outcome of study was evaluated by assessing the edema, healing time, and mobility of the affected digit.

Results Mean healing time in the case group was 12.4 days (range: 11–14, standard deviation [SD]: 0.992). The mean VAS (visual analog scale) score was 8.42 (range: 13–17, SD: 1.136). The percentage increase in mobility was 70.81% in the case group (glove dressing) as opposed to 46.57% in the control group (conventional dressing) at 10 days post-burn, which was statistically significant.

Conclusion Sterile glove dressing techniques can be handy and a convenient method for dressing of hand burn injuries.
Using Ultrasound and Power-Assisted Devices through Lateral Incision: The OCCULT Technique for Gynecomastia—A Multicentric Large Series Study
Authors: Gupta Rajat , Bansal Priya , Chugh Anmol , Shah Saumil Girish , Chaudhary Gautam
Published: February 2025

Introduction Gynecomastia is a common condition characterized by male breast enlargement, which can have a profound psychological impact on affected individuals. Surgical intervention is often sought to alleviate these concerns. This study evaluates the lateral port technique for gynecomastia surgery, which combines power-assisted liposuction (PAL) and ultrasound-assisted liposuction (UAL) to achieve optimal surgical outcomes with no scar on front of chest.

Materials and Methods A retrospective analysis was conducted on 967 patients who underwent gynecomastia surgery using the Out of Sight, No Cut on Front of Chest Using Ultrasound and Power-Assisted Devices through Lateral Incision (OCCULT) technique between January 2022 and December 2023. The procedures were performed at multiple centers located in New Delhi, Gurugram, and Mumbai, India. This technique involves a single lateral chest wall incision and incorporates both PAL and UAL to ensure effective tissue removal and contouring. Outcomes assessed included surgical efficacy, complication rates, and patient satisfaction. The surgeries were performed by a team of experienced surgeons, ensuring the reproducibility and consistency of the method.

Results The OCCULT technique demonstrated high efficacy and high patient satisfaction. Among the 967 patients, 93.3% reported being satisfied with the surgical results. Excellent scar quality was reported by 97.1% of the patients. Moreover, the scar was out of sight, that is, no scar on the front of chest was made in the OCCULT technique for gynecomastia surgery. Complications were minimal, with only 0.8% experiencing seroma formation and no cases of necrosis observed.

Conclusion The OCCULT technique for gynecomastia surgery is an effective and reproducible method that provides aesthetically favorable results with minimal complications. Its ability to address the psychological and physical burdens of gynecomastia highlights its value in modern surgical practice.
A new model of time travel by a conical singularity
Authors: Lange Katherine De
Published: February 2025

A simple spacetime model containing a conical singularity provides an example of a universe that allows time travel.
Surface transport emission reduction strategy in Bhutan
Authors: Suberi Hari Kumar , Helmers Eckard , Asif Muhammad , Nadeem Talha Bin
Published: February 2025

This study analyzes the surface transport emission reduction strategy in Bhutan. Considering 100% Electric Vehicle (EV) development by 2050, the estimated emission reduction is calculated based on kilometers traveled for passenger vehicles and ton kilometers traveled for freight mobility in the year 2022. The calculated values show combustion engine vehicle emissions (CO2: 1145 Gt, CO: 29.8 Gt, SO2: 2.9 Gt, NOx: 12.1 Gt, N2O: 0.009 Gt, CH4: 0.104 Gt, NMVOC: 5.8 Gt, and PM2.5: 0.072 Gt) compared to 100% EV emissions (CO2: 276 Gt) in gigatons (Gt) in 2050, where other emission categories are completely removed during the operation life of EVs. However, to meet the emission reduction potential, various technical challenges are to be fulfilled, such as electrification of freight mobility, rural road infrastructure quality development, the high modal share of public transport service, and at least the provision of 2500 MW as a base load in the electric grid network. Furthermore, qualifying for zero emissions by 2050 requires regular data updates, which is a concern. Bhutan is uniquely positioned to achieve EV zero emissions as its power generation mix is almost 100% renewables based predominantly driven by hydropower.