bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
DEVELOPMENT OF COMPOSITE MATERIALS WITH INCREASED STABILITY FOR ENERGY-GENERATING AND ENERGY-SAVING SYSTEMS
Authors: Torchyniuk Pavlo , Lisovskyi Ivan , Belous Anatolii
Published: January 2025

Techniques for creating composite organic-­inorganic materials by applying optically transparent polymers to the surface of the organic-inorganic perovskite CH3NH3PbI3 and composite cathode materials by modifying the surface of commercial cathode materials of the LiNixCoyAlzO2/LiNixMnyCozO2(NCA/NMC)type with nanoparticles of lithium oxide conductive material Li1.3Al .3Ti1.7(PO4)3 (LATP) have been developed.
It was shown that, depending on the type of polymer, CH3NH3PbI3 perovskite degrades due to the formation of different amounts of additional crystalline phases.It was established that the degree of degradation of the perovskite (1:2) CH3NH3PbI3 film is 100% after 220 days of influence to moisture and oxygen. Under the influence of moisture and oxygen for 500 days, perovskite/polymer films: PVB, SOC, and PVDC degrade only by 1.55%, 1.65% and 3.5%, respectively, which is 65, 60 and 29 times less than for pure perovskite CH3NH3PbI3.
The dependence of the electrochemical characteristics of a layered cathode material containing NCA/NMCon the method for applying a protective layer (mechanical application and sol-gel method) of nanoparticles of the lithium-conducting material LATP with a NASICON structure to its surface has been studied.It was found that for composite ca­thode materials based on NMC 111, the capacity drop during 80 charge/discharge cycles is reduced by 10–14% compared to the initial NMC 111. At the same time, the suitability of the cathode material NMC 111m(T) for the rapid charge/discharge process is 4–6% hi­gher than that of the initial cathode material.It is shown that both investigated methods of creating composite materials based on cathode materials with a high nickel content (NMC 811 and NCA) and LATP nanoparticles do not lead to improvement of their electrochemical cha­racteristics.
Fattigdom, social barnavård och barns rättigheter
Authors: Holappa Tim , Leviner Pernilla
Published: January 2025

Poverty, child protection and rights – a legal analysis
According to the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, children have the right to a standard of living adequate for their development. The responsibility to realize this lies primarily with parents, but states have a duty to support parents and an ultimate responsibility to protect children from harm. Yet, studies show that children in Sweden are affected by economic vulnerability, and that the right to financial support is conditional, leading to a risk that children's needs are not being met. This article looks at how the social services in Sweden should deal with child poverty. From a legal perspective it is examined what applies in situations where children do not have their basic needs met and where parents are not granted financial support. An important question is whether there are legal prerequisites to take children into care in such a situation. It is shown that there are no explicit legal provisions legitimizing taking children into care solely on the basis of poverty. Further, case law of the European Court of Human Rights, and statements from the UN Committee on the Rights of the Child, indicate that taking children into care because of poverty is a disproportionate restriction of children's rights. However, the national legal framework is unclear. Children are to be protected from harm, but the parents who do not meet the conditions set out by the social services are denied financial support. Overall, this means that there is a risk that children will be taken into care as a result of poverty, even though the needs could be met through financial support. The article discusses the need for legal clarifications and reforms in order to better protect children’s needs and rights.
Didier Eribon (2009) (2024)
Authors: Alakoski Susanna
Published: January 2025

Är ursprunget i arbetarmisär en större skam än homosexualitet, frågar sig den franske sociologen och queerteoretikern Didier Eribon i boken ”Tillbaka till Reims” (2009) när han återvänder till hemorten efter trettio år i exil. Som ung studerade Eribon (född 1953) vid Sorbonne. Gaykretsarna var klassöverskridande. Fabriksarbetarsonen blir nära vän med den kände filosofen Michel Foucault som han också skriver en betydande biografi om.
Lyrik: Stig Dagerman
Authors: Dagerman Stig
Published: January 2025

Stig Dagerman 1923–1954). Författarskapet kom att bli ett av det svenska 40–talets mest tongivande, mångfacetterade. Under sin korta tid som författare lämnade han stora avtryck, både i Sverige och många andra länder. Debuten romanen Ormen (1945) fick ett omedelbart genombrott. Efter det publicerande han romanerna Bränt barn (1948) och Bröllopsbesvär (1949). Reportageboken Tysk höst är en samling texter skrivna under en resa, gjord för Expressens räkning genom det av kriget härjade Tyskland. Dagerman var också verksam som kulturskribent, poet, essäist, debattör och recensent. På tidningen Arbetaren skrev han dagverser – Dagermans dagsedlar. Dessa handlade om aktuella frågor, problem eller händelser. Sammanlagt skrev han omkring 1350 stycken. Redaktionen har för detta specialnummer valt att publicera följande två på tema fattigdom (Tryckeri AB Federativ, 1954, andra utgåvan).
Det sista Stig Dagerman skrev blev dagsedeln ”Varning för hunden!”. Dikten lämnades in till Arbetarens redaktion dagen före självmordet. Publicerades den 5 november 1954, samma dag som beskedet om hans död kom.
Spellista
Authors: Taghizadeh Larsson Annika , Lundberg Anna , Alakoski Susanna , Dahlstedt Magnus
Published: January 2025

Redaktionens spellista kan förhoppningsvis inspirera till nytänkande och omtänkande gällande sociala rättigheters historia, uppkomst och upprätthållande.
From feed to field: effect of dietary protein level and use of a blend of feed additives on gaseous emissions from growing-finishing pig slurry
Authors: Fuertes Esperanza , Sarri Laura , Carnicero Rodrigo , Pérez-Calvo Estefania , Calderón Álvaro , Balcells Joaquim , Seradj Ahmad Reza , Cantero-Martínez Carlos , Fernández-Ortega Jesús , de la Fuente Gabriel
Published: January 2025

The environmental impact of livestock waste has driven the need for nutritional strategies to enhance digestive efficiency in pigs, aiming to reduce nutrient excretion and associated emissions of pollutants like ammonia (NH3) and greenhouse gases (GHG). This study investigated the effects of dietary crude protein (CP) reduction by 1.5%, combined with supplementation of a dietary treatment that included feed additives and higher soluble fiber levels, on nutrient digestibility, slurry composition, and emissions across growing and finishing phases. Eighty male pigs were assigned to four different diets in a 13-week trial under a 2 × 2 factorial design: standard protein (SP) and low protein (LP) diets, with or without the dietary treatment. Key measurements included slurry composition, NH3-N and CH4 emissions, and crop yield when slurry was applied as fertilizer. The low-protein diet supplemented with additives (LPA) significantly reduced slurry pH (P ≤ 0.001) and urinary NH3-N excretion (interaction, P = 0.03), improving nutrient digestibility and lowering organic matter content in slurry (P < 0.05). NH3 emissions from the room and slurry pit decreased by over 38%, while CH4 emissions, although higher in LP diets, were mitigated with the LPA diet. Field application of slurry as fertilizer resulted in trends favoring sustainable wheat production, with increased yield and nitrogen use efficiency, alongside reduced CH4 emissions (P < 0.001). These findings underscore the potential of combined dietary strategies to mitigate environmental impacts while enhancing agricultural sustainability.
DNA methylation biomarker analysis from low-survival-rate cancers based on genetic functional approaches
Authors: Tsai Yi-Hsuan , Mitra Prasenjit , Taniar David , Pai Tun-Wen
Published: January 2025

Identifying cancer biomarkers through DNA methylation analysis is an efficient approach toward the detection of aberrant changes in epigenetic regulation associated with early-stage cancer types. Among all cancer types, cancers with relatively low five-year survival rates and high incidence rates were pancreatic (10%), esophageal (20%), liver (20%), lung (21%), and brain (27%) cancers. This study integrated genome-wide DNA methylation profiles and comorbidity patterns to identify the common biomarkers with multi-functional analytics across the aforementioned five cancer types. In addition, gene ontology was used to categorize the biomarkers into several functional groups and establish the relationships between gene functions and cancers. ALX3, HOXD8, IRX1, HOXA9, HRH1, PTPRN2, TRIM58, and NPTX2 were identified as important methylation biomarkers for the five cancers characterized by low five-year survival rates. To extend the applicability of these biomarkers, their annotated genetic functions were explored through GO and KEGG pathway analyses. The combination of ALX3, NPTX2, and TRIM58 was selected from distinct functional groups. An accuracy prediction of 93.3% could be achieved by validating the ten most common cancers, including the initial five low-survival-rate cancer types.
Proteomic analysis of whole blood to investigate the therapeutic effects of nervonic acid on cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury in rats
Authors: Li Qingqing , Zhang Fengrong , Li Xianyu , Wang Qing
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Blood proteomics offers a powerful approach for identifying disease-specific biomarkers. However, no reliable blood markers are currently available for the diagnosis stroke. Nervonic acid (NA), a vital long-chain monounsaturated fatty acid found in mammalian nervous tissue, shows promising therapeutic potential in neurological disorders. This study aimed to develop a reliable methodology for whole blood proteomics to identify early warning biomarkers and evaluate drug treatment efficacy.

Methods

After modeling via the classic thread embolization method, whole blood samples were collected from the rats. Morphological assessments of brain tissue indicated that NA significantly mitigated brain and neuronal damage in rats. The differential protein expression profile was analyzed using Liquid Chromatography—Tandem Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) whole blood proteomics.

Results

ZZZGene Ontology (GO) analysis revealed that, compared to ginkgo biloba extract (EGb), the proteins differentially expressed under NA intervention were predominantly involved in oxidative stress response and calcium-dependent adhesion processes. Key targets of NA in the treatment of middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) models included ENO1, STAT3, NME2, VCL, and CCT3.

Discussion

This whole blood proteomic approach provides a comprehensive understanding of protein profiles associated with disease states, offering valuable insights into potential therapeutic targets and enabling the evaluation of NA and EGb intervention efficacy. Our findings underscore the protective effects of NA against cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury and highlight its potential as a treatment for stroke.
Development of a one-step multiplex RT-qPCR method for rapid detection of bovine diarrhea viruses
Authors: Yang Dequan , Ma Li , Yang Zhongping , Yang Xianchao , Wang Jian , Ju Houbin , Lu Chunguang , Weng Yonggang , Zhao Heping , Shen Haixiao , Li Xin , Ge Feifei , Wang Xiaoxu , Wu Xiujuan , Xiang Meng , Feng Guidan , Tang Congsheng , Huang Shixin , Zhao Hongjin
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Viral calf diarrhea poses a significant challenge to the cattle industry worldwide due to its high morbidity and mortality rates, leading to substantial economic losses. The clinical symptoms associated with various diarrhea pathogens often overlap, complicating accurate diagnosis; thus, there is an urgent need for rapid and precise diagnostic methods to improve prevention and treatment efforts. In this study, we developed a one-step multiplex reverse-transcription quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (mRT-qPCR) that enables the simultaneous detection of three key viral pathogens responsible for calf diarrhea: bovine kobuvirus (BKoV), bovine astrovirus (BoAstV), and bovine torovirus (BToV). However, development of accurate and rapid methods to distinguish these three viruses is helpful for the early detection, disease surveillance, and control of viral calf diarrhea.

Methods

Specific primers and minor groove binder (MGB)-based probes were designed targeting the 3D region of BKoV, ORF1 region of BoAstV, and N region of BToV. The sensitivity, specificity, and reproducibility ability were evaluated for the mRT-qPCR. Further, 80 bovine fecal samples were subjected to the mRT-qPCR, and the results were verified using conventional reverse-transcription PCR (RT-PCR) or PCR methods and sequencing methods.

Results

This novel method demonstrated high sensitivity and specificity,achieving a detection limit of 24 copies/mL for each pathogen. Furthermore, the assay exhibited excellent reproducibility, with coefficients of variation below 1.5%, a strong linear correlation (R2 > 0.996), and an amplification efficiency between 90% and 110%. Validation with 80 clinical samples from both diarrheic and non-diarrheic cattle across four farms in Shanghai showed a high degree of concordance with RT-PCR, with positive detection rates for BKoV, BoAstV, and BToV at 28.75%, 8.75%, and 3.75%, respectively, highlighting the predominance of BKoV and BoAstV. Notably, this study represents the first identification of BKoV, BoAstV, and BToV in the Shanghai region.

Discussion

The mRT-qPCR is a robust, rapid, and simple tool for identifying viral pathogens associated with calf diarrhea, facilitating the development of effective prevention and control measures that are vital for the future sustainability of the cattle industry.
Microbiome interplays in the gut-liver axis: implications for liver cancer pathogenesis and therapeutic insights
Authors: Wang Xuran , Zhang Bin , Jiang Runqiu
Published: January 2025

Globally, primary liver cancer (PLC) ranks the most fatal malignancy. Most of the patients are in advanced stage of PLC at the very time they are diagnosed with it, accounting much for its poor prognosis. With the advancement of modern medical research and care system, the main etiology of PLC more and more switches from hepatitis viruses such as HAV, HBV, HCV, HEV to other causes like metabolism-associated steatohepatitis (MASH) and metabolic-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD). As a result, it is of great necessity to find out new ways for treatment and early diagnosis to cope with this problem. Nowadays, as the mechanism of the Gut-Liver Axis in the formation of MAFLD, MASH and PLC has been gradually elucidated. The association between gut microbiome and the formation of PLC is of great significance to take an insight into. In this review, we present the concept of Gut-Liver Axis and its function in the mutual influence between gut microbiota and PLC from several aspects in which we will focus on the structure of gut barrier and the functional influences the gut microbiota have on the immune response and metabolic changes on human liver. Furthermore, we conclude the potential association of gut microbiota constitution with the PLC. Eventually, we hope this review can offer novel instructions for early diagnosis and treatment for liver cancer.
Beyond the current state of just-in-time adaptive interventions in mental health: a qualitative systematic review
Authors: van Genugten Claire R. , Thong Melissa S. Y. , van Ballegooijen Wouter , Kleiboer Annet M. , Spruijt-Metz Donna , Smit Arnout C. , Sprangers Mirjam A. G. , Terhorst Yannik , Riper Heleen
Published: January 2025

Background

Just-In-Time Adaptive Interventions (JITAIs) are interventions designed to deliver timely tailored support by adjusting to changes in users' internal states and external contexts. To accomplish this, JITAIs often apply complex analytic techniques, such as machine learning or Bayesian algorithms to real- or near-time data acquired from smartphones and other sensors. Given the idiosyncratic, dynamic, and context dependent nature of mental health symptoms, JITAIs hold promise for mental health. However, the development of JITAIs is still in the early stages and is complex due to the multifactorial nature of JITAIs. Considering this complexity, Nahum-Shani et al. developed a conceptual framework for developing and testing JITAIs for health-related problems. This review evaluates the current state of JITAIs in the field of mental health including their alignment with Nahum-Shani et al.'s framework.

Methods

Nine databases were systematically searched in August 2023. Protocol or empirical studies self-identifying their intervention as a “JITAI” targeting mental health were included in the qualitative synthesis if they were published in peer-reviewed journals and written in English.

Results

Of the 1,419 records initially screened, 9 papers reporting on 5 JITAIs were included (sample size range: 5 to an expected 264). Two JITAIs were for bulimia nervosa, one for depression, one for insomnia, and one for maternal prenatal stress. Although most core components of Nahum-Shani's et al.'s framework were incorporated in the JITAIs, essential elements (e.g., adaptivity and receptivity) within the core components were missing and the core components were only partly substantiated by empirical evidence (e.g., interventions were supported, but the decision rules and points were not). Complex analytical techniques such as data from passive monitoring of individuals' states and contexts were hardly used. Regarding the current state of studies, initial findings on usability, feasibility, and effectiveness appear positive.

Conclusions

JITAIs for mental health are still in their early stages of development, with opportunities for improvement in both development and testing. For future development, it is recommended that developers utilize complex analytical techniques that can handle real-or near-time data such as machine learning, passive monitoring, and conduct further research into empirical-based decision rules and points for optimization in terms of enhanced effectiveness and user-engagement.
A pedagogical approach: toward leveraging mathematical modeling and AI to support integrating humanities into STEM education
Authors: Clark Quintana M.
Published: January 2025

This paper examines the transformative potential of integrating humanities into STEM education using interdisciplinary approaches, AI, and Model Eliciting Activities (MEAs). The integration is motivated by the increasing complexity of global challenges, such as climate change, which demand solutions that extend beyond traditional STEM boundaries and incorporate ethical, cultural, and societal considerations. This study profiles a multi-year, NSF-funded project focused on enhancing STEM literacy among underrepresented minority students through agricultural sciences-based MEAs that address key societal challenges in health, energy, urban green spaces, and food security. The paper details the curriculum’s design principles, emphasizing real-world, culturally relevant contexts. Results indicate that while quantitative measures show limited significant changes in interest and motivation, qualitative findings highlight increased student engagement, especially regarding real-world issues. The study underscores the importance of structural and interactional components, such as culturally relevant pedagogy, for successful curriculum implementation. Future research is recommended to explore broader applications of this model across diverse educational settings, aiming to refine interdisciplinary educational frameworks that equip students with technical skills and ethical awareness to navigate societal challenges responsibly. This case study provides a framework for educators seeking to implement interdisciplinary approaches that prepare students to address complex global challenges by integrating technical skills with ethical and cultural understanding.
Signals of inclusion: how faculty demographics impact the use of identity safety cues in undergraduate STEM syllabi
Authors: Coutts Anthony , Brown Crystal , Bernardi Francesca
Published: January 2025

In this study we explore the relationship between faculty demographics such as gender, academic rank, and field, and the presence of Identity Safety Cues (ISCs) in undergraduate course syllabi. ISCs, such as the inclusion of instructor pronouns, inclusivity statements, and materials authored by women and gender minority scholars, are increasingly seen as indicators of inclusive teaching practices. Drawing from an original dataset of 163 syllabi from introductory undergraduate courses at Worcester Polytechnic Institute, a STEM-focused institution in the United States of America, we examine how these cues are used by faculty across different fields, gender, and rank. We employ a combination of descriptive and predictive statistics methods to investigate the influence of faculty demographics on syllabi design. Our findings reveal that women faculty across all disciplines are more likely to include ISCs compared to their male counterparts. Field also plays a substantial role in syllabi design, with faculty in the Humanities & Arts including ISCs much more frequently than those in STEM and the Social Sciences. The implications of these findings suggest a need for targeted faculty professional development and mentorship to promote better inclusive pedagogy in STEM education.
Impacts of stem cells from different sources on wound healing rate in diabetic foot ulcers: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Tong Le , Tang Lin , Tang Bangli , Zhang Jianna
Published: January 2025

Background

Diabetic foot ulcers (DFU) are a significant complication of diabetes, with huge implications on patient morbidity and healthcare costs. The objective of this meta-analysis was to evaluate the impacts of stem cells from different sources on wound healing rate in DFU patients.

Methods

We systematically retrieved records via key databases PubMed, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, Embase, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) and Wanfang from the inception to October 2024. The Stata 16.0 (Stata Corp, TX) software was used to perform the meta-analysis. Risk of bias in all included studies was evaluated by Cochrane Risk of Bias version 2.

Results

A total of 24 studies involving 1,321 patients were included. There was an increased likelihood of wound healing with peripheral blood-derived stem cells, the most effective cells (odds ratios (OR) = 7.31, 95% CI: 2.90–18.47), followed by adipose-derived stem cells (OR = 5.23, 95% CI: 2.76–9.90), umbilical cord-derived stem cells (OR = 4.94, 95% CI: 0.61–40.03), bone-derived stem cells (OR = 4.36, 95% CI: 2.43–7.85) and other sources stem cells (OR = 3.16, 95% CI: 1.83–5.45). Nevertheless, only umbilical cord-derived stem cells showed statistical significance (p < 0.05). The heterogeneity ranged from non-existent in the adipose and peripheral blood groups (I2 = 0.00%) to moderate in the bone groups (I2 = 26.31%) and other groups (I2 = 30.62%), and substantial in the umbilical cord groups (I2 = 88.37%). Asymmetrical funnel plots pointed to publication bias, but the trim-and-fill method to correct for this brought the effect estimates even lower: based on the pooled OR, corrected OR was 3.40 (95% CI 2.39–4.84). Stem cell therapy was also associated with improvements in several secondary outcomes, suggesting its potential to influence the progression of DFU.

Conclusion

Our study suggested that stem cells from different sources showed potential in promoting wound healing in DFU, although with some variation in effectiveness. Despite some publication bias and moderate heterogeneity, the overall therapeutic effect remained positive. These findings indicated that stem cell therapy might influence the progression of DFU.
Proteomics profiling of inflammatory responses to elexacaftor/tezacaftor/ivacaftor in cystic fibrosis
Authors: Ozuna Hazel , Bojja Dinesh , Partida-Sanchez Santiago , Hall-Stoodley Luanne , Amer Amal , Britt Rodney D. , Sheikh Shahid , Frank David A. , Wang Weiyuan , Kang Bum-Yong , Miralda Irina , Durfey Samantha L. , Kopp Benjamin T.
Published: January 2025

Background

CFTR modulator therapies have positive clinical outcomes, yet chronic inflammation and bacterial infections persist in people with CF (pwCF). How elexacaftor–tezacaftor–ivacaftor (ETI) fails to improve innate immune signaling responsible for bacterial clearance and inflammation resolution remains unknown.

Methods

We used an unbiased proteomics approach to measure the effect of ETI on inflammatory proteins. Plasma from 20 pediatric pwCF and 20 non-CF (NCF) was collected during routine examination and 3 months after ETI initiation. Protein screening was performed with an inflammation panel (Target 96, Olink®). Bioinformatics analysis was used to determine changes in protein expression.

Results

There were significantly fewer pulmonary exacerbations after ETI initiation, along with sustained improvement in lung function and reduced bacterial colonization. Unpaired analysis of CF pre-ETI and NCF resulted in 34 significantly different proteins. Of these, CCL20, MMP-10, EN-RAGE, and AXIN1 had a log2 fold change of 1.2 or more. There was a modest shift in overall CF protein profiles post-ETI toward the NCF cluster. Unpaired analysis of protein differential expression between NCF and CF post-ETI identified a total of 24 proteins significantly impacted by ETI therapy (p-value ≤ 0.05), with only CCL20 having a log2 fold change higher than 1.2. Paired analysis (CF pre- and CF post-ETI) of differential protein expression demonstrated significant expression changes of MMP-10, EN-RAGE, and IL-17A. Pathway analysis identified significantly impacted pathways such as the NF-κB pathway.

Conclusion

This study showed that ETI in a pediatric cohort had a modest effect on several inflammatory proteins with potential as biomarkers. Pathways significantly impacted by ETI can be further studied for future therapies to combat persistent inflammation and dysregulated immunity.
Castleman disease misdiagnosed as immunoglobulin G4-related disease: a case report
Authors: Li Na , Xu LiFen , Liu Xiaoxia , Wu Pengjia , Liu Jun , Zeng Jiashun
Published: January 2025

Castleman disease (CD) and immunoglobulin G4-related disease (IgG4-RD) are rare systemic immune-mediated disorders that share overlapping clinical features, posing significant challenges in differential diagnosis. Here, we present a case of generalized lymphadenopathy initially misdiagnosed as IgG4-RD, which demonstrated a poor response to hormonal therapy. Subsequent pathological biopsy and immunohistochemical analysis ultimately confirmed the diagnosis of CD. This case underscores the limitations of relying solely on serum IgG4 levels as a diagnostic marker to distinguish CD from IgG4-RD. Comprehensive evaluation, including clinical presentation, organ involvement, serological and pathological findings, as well as therapeutic response, is essential to ensure accurate diagnosis and timely management.
The Parallel Architecture—application and explanatory power for neurolinguistic research
Authors: Breuer Esther Odilia , Binkofski Ferdinand Christoph , Pellicano Antonello
Published: January 2025

Various linguistic models have been developed to systematize language processes and provide a structured framework for understanding the complex network of language production and reception. However, these models have often been developed in isolation from neurolinguistic research, which continues to provide new insights into the mental processes involved in language production and comprehension. Conversely, neurolinguists often neglect the potential benefits of incorporating contemporary linguistic models into their research, although these models could help interpret specific findings and make complex concepts more accessible to readers. This paper evaluates the utility of Jackendoff's Parallel Architecture as a generic framework for explaining language acquisition. It also explores the potential for incorporating neurolinguistic findings by mapping its components onto specific neural structures, functions, and processes within the brain. To this end, we reviewed findings from a range of neurolinguistic studies on language acquisition and tested how their results could be represented using the Parallel Architecture. Our results indicate that the framework is generally well-suited to illustrate many language processes and to explain how language systems are built. However, to increase its explanatory power, it would be beneficial to add other linguistic and non-linguistic structures, or to signal that there is the option of adding such structures (e.g., prosody or pragmatics) for explaining the processes of initiating language acquisition or non-typical language acquisition. It is also possible to focus on fewer structures to show very specific interactions or zoom in on chosen structures and substructures to outline processes in more detail. Since the Parallel Architecture is a framework of linguistic structures for modeling language processes rather than a model of specific linguistic processes per se, it is open to new connections and elements, and therefore open to adaptations and extensions as indicated by new findings in neuro- or psycholinguistics.
Carbon injection potential of the mesopelagic-migrant pump in the Southern Ocean during summer
Authors: Baker Katherine , Halfter Svenja , Scoulding Ben , Swadling Kerrie M. , Richards Shane A. , Bressac Matthieu , Sutton Caroline A. , Boyd Philip W.
Published: January 2025

The passive sinking flux of particles, termed the biological gravitational pump (BGP), is an important component of the ocean’s biological carbon pump. In addition, carbon-rich particles are actively injected to depth through the diel vertical migration (DVM) of micronekton and mesozooplankton from the surface to the oceans’ twilight zone (200 m – 1000 m depth). This is known as the mesopelagic-migrant pump (MMP). We investigated the magnitude of the MMP at one subantarctic and two polar sites in summer by assessing particulate and dissolved carbon export below 200 m depth based on DVM and the composition of the mesopelagic community. Carbon injection potential (CIP) for the dominant taxa at each site was estimated through four pathways, i.e., excretion, respiration, fecal pellets, and carcass production. Blooms of two migratory tunicate species, the pyrosome Pyrosoma atlanticum (subantarctic) and the salp Salpa thompsoni (polar) dominated the micronekton biomass and MMP export ranged from 5.0 to 9.4 mg C m-2 d-1 across the three Southern Ocean sites. Mesozooplankton abundance was dominated by copepods, which contributed an additional 0.7 to 32.2 mg C m-2 d-1 to the MMP. Results from this summertime study suggest an increase in the relative importance of the MMP compared to the BGP south of the Polar Front, however, future work should target the seasonality of the MMP, which necessitates linking environmental drivers to micronekton and mesozooplankton community composition, life history, and DVM.
Mouthguard types, properties and influence on performance in sport activities: a narrative review
Authors: Wang Ke , Liu Yitong , Zhao Zihe , Zhou Shengjie , Zhang Min
Published: January 2025

Mouthguards are proven devices placed inside the mouth to prevent oral lacerations, dental injuries, and jaw fractures. Endorsed by the World Dental Federation, mouthguards are crucial for preventing orofacial and dental trauma. However, their adoption in sports is challenged by limited guidance, communication barriers, and cost considerations. Based on extensive literature research in PubMed/MEDLINE, this narrative review summarizes the historical development of mouthguards, elaborates on their primary classifications, and examines the factors influencing their properties. Importantly, the impact of mouthguards on sports performance is clarified in this study. Overall, using mouthguards in sports not only reduces the occurrence and severity of dental injuries but also holds promise for enhancing athletic performances such as strength, aerobic capacity, agility, balance, and flexibility. Therefore, promoting mouthguard use in the sports community should be encouraged.
Daily feeding frequency impacts muscle characteristics and fat deposition in finishing pigs associated with alterations in microbiota composition and bile acid profile
Authors: Hu Luga , Tang Huayu , Xie Zhaoxi , Yi Hongyu , Feng Lunjie , Zhou Pan , Zhang Yong , Liu Jingbo , Ao Xiang , Zhou Jianchuan , Yan Honglin
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Feeding frequency has been shown to affect growth and body composition of the host associated with gut microbiota. It remains unknown whether adjusting feeding frequency could effectively regulate both skeletal muscle development and whole-body lipid metabolism and thus affect carcass composition and feed conversion efficiency. Therefore, this study aimed to explore the effects of feeding frequency on muscle growth, fat deposition, cecal microbiota composition, and bile acid composition in finishing pigs.

Methods

Sixteen Sichuan-Tibetan black pigs, with an initial weight of 121.50 ± 1.60 kg, were divided into two groups and fed either two meals (M2) or four meals (M4) per day. The trial lasted 30 days. The muscle fiber characteristics, lipid metabolism in adipose tissue, and cecal microbiota and bile acid composition were determined.

Results

The present study revealed that pigs fed four meals exhibited a lower feed-to-gain ratio, abdominal fat weight, and average backfat thickness (p < 0.05), as well as a higher loin eye area (p = 0.09) and myofiber diameter in the longissimus muscle than their counterparts. The mRNA expression of slow-twitch fiber and myogenesis-associated genes in the longissimus muscle was upregulated, while lipid metabolism-related genes in the backfat were downregulated in the M4 group compared to the M2 group (p < 0.05). The M4 pigs exhibited higher abundances of Firmicutes, Actinobacteriota, Bacillus, Clostridium_sensu_1, and Romboutsia, and lower abundances of Spirochaetota, Verrucomicrobiota, Treponema, and Muribaculaceae in the cecal content than the M2 pigs (p < 0.05). A higher feeding frequency increased the levels of primary bile acids and decreased the concentrations of taurine-conjugated bile acids in the cecal content of pigs (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Our research suggested that the M4 feeding pattern, compared to the M2 pattern, promoted muscle growth and reduced fat deposition by enhancing fast- to slow-twitch fiber conversion and myogenesis in the muscle and repressing lipid metabolism in adipose tissue, associated with altered microbiota composition and bile acid profiles.
Opportunities, challenges, and difficulties in NMR-based metabolomics applied to neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) patient follow-up
Authors: Schoumacher M. , Lambert V. , Campas M. , Blaise P. , Locht B. , Thys M. , Duchateau E. , Cavalier E. , Rakic J.-M. , Noël A. , de Tullio P.
Published: January 2025

Introduction

This study applies NMR-based metabolomics to investigate neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD), addressing challenges in patient management, disease progression evaluation, and treatment response assessment. A two-year follow-up of 29 nAMD patients undergoing treatment provided 231 time points for analysis.

Methods

Over the two-year period, 11 males and 18 females (aged 61–92 years) were monitored, yielding 231 time points. At each time point, blood samples for NMR metabolomics analysis, clinical measurements (e.g., lactate, glucose levels, HDL/LDL cholesterol, and blood pH), and optical coherence tomography (OCT) images were collected to evaluate the progression of choroidal neovascularization. 1H-NMR metabolomic analysis led to the quantification of over 60 metabolites and of the major lipoprotein fractions. Both multivariate and univariate statistical approaches tailored for longitudinal data were employed to identify biomarkers correlating metabolomic changes with ocular alterations during disease progression.

Results and Discussion

Despite a rigorous analytical workflow enabling precise quantification of over 60 metabolites and the application of advanced statistical tools for longitudinal data, achieving consistent results across the cohort proved challenging. The dataset’s heterogeneity, reflecting real-world clinical practice, complicated the derivation of global conclusions. Personalized analyses on a patient-by-patient basis successfully identified individual correlation models, but a universal model remained elusive. This study highlights the inherent challenges of translating findings from controlled settings into clinical practice, where factors such as visit frequency, treatment variability, and disease heterogeneity limit data uniformity. We emphasize the importance of experimental design in longitudinal studies, particularly when dealing with incomplete and variable datasets. We are therefore confident that, considering both the challenges and difficulties identified in this work and the preliminary results presented here, it is possible to develop predictive and individualized models for monitoring patients with nAMD. Such models could greatly assist clinicians in providing better care for these patients.
Ameliorative effect of liprotide-encapsulated vitamin D3 on blood glucose, calcium homeostasis, and vitamin D level in a vitamin D and calcium deficient rat model
Authors: Anjani Gemala , Achmad Maulana Reza , Putri Sylvia Rahmi , Fulyani Faizah , Syauqy Ahmad , Afifah Diana Nur , Ayustaningwarno Fitriyono , Kusuma Refani Alycia , Masruroh Zulfatul
Published: January 2025

Vitamin D3, recognized for its higher bioavailability and direct cell utilization, plays a vital role in the human body. Applying β-lactoglobulin with oleic acid (β-Lg-AO) as an encapsulating agent is anticipated to protect and enhance the transport of vitamin D3 to the gastrointestinal system. This study aimed to evaluate effect of liprotide-encapsulated vitamin D3 in a vitamin D-deficient rat on blood glucose, Vitamin D and calcium status. This is pre-post intervention. 24 mice were divided into 4 groups: (K-) normal rats; (K+) rat model of vitamin D and calcium deficiency; (P1) rat model of vitamin D and calcium deficiency with vitamin D3 intervention; (P2) rat model of vitamin D and calcium deficiency with liprotide-encapsulated vitamin D3 intervention. The administered dose of vitamin D3 was 180 IU (2 mL solution). Liprotide-encapsulated vitamin D3 intervention in vitamin D and calcium deficiency rats can significantly increase vitamin D (25 (OH)D) and calcium levels (p < 0.05). The increase in vitamin D (25 (OH)D) level was 53.69 ng/mL, and the increased calcium level was 4.38 mg/dL. Blood glucose levels of vitamin D-calcium deficiency rats decreased significantly (p < 0.05) by 39.87 mg/dL. Vitamin D3 encapsulated liprotide improves vitamin D and calcium in the blood more effectively than vitamin D3 without encapsulation in deficient rats.
Association between fish intake and incidence of sarcopenia in community-dwelling older adults after a 6-year follow-up: the Korean frailty and aging cohort study
Authors: Yi Seunghyun , Kim Miji , Won Chang Won , Park Yongsoon
Published: January 2025

Previous studies have suggested beneficial effects of n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids on sarcopenia. However, the associations of dietary fish intake with the prevalence of sarcopenia are inconsistent, and those with the incidence of sarcopenia has not been studied. This study investigated the hypothesis that seafood and fish consumption is inversely associated with the subsequent incidence of sarcopenia. Using data from the Korean Frailty and Aging Cohort Study, 503 non-sarcopenic community-dwelling Korean adults aged 70–84 years were followed-up for 6 years. Sarcopenia was defined according to the Asian Working Group for Sarcopenia 2019 consensus. Dietary intake was assessed using two non-consecutive 24-h dietary recalls at baseline. The incidence of sarcopenia was 37.8% after the 6-year follow-up. The intake of oily fish was inversely associated with the incidence of sarcopenia (OR 0.99; 95% CI 0.98–1.00; p for trend = 0.046) and that of low gait speed (OR 0.98; 95% CI 0.97–1.00; p for trend = 0.016) after the 6-year follow-up, adjusting for confounding factors. Consumption of total seafood, fish, non-oily fish, or shellfish was not significantly associated with the incidence of sarcopenia or its parameters, such as muscle mass, handgrip strength, usual gait speed, 5-times sit-to-stand test, or the Short Physical Performance Battery. The findings demonstrate that the consumption of oily fish could be beneficial in preventing sarcopenia, particularly by improving usual gait speed in Korean community-dwelling older adults, suggesting oily fish as a strategy to reduce sarcopenia risk.
Do non-mammary conditions influence patients’ cosmetic perception after breast conserving surgery?
Authors: de Oliveira-Junior Idam , da Silva Fabíola Cristina Brandini , Sarri Almir José , Vieira René Aloísio da Costa
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Compared to mastectomy, breast-conserving surgery (BCS) guarantees equivalent local control and survival, with lower morbidity and better quality of life (QOL), even in the long term. However, some BCS patients consider the cosmetic result to be unsatisfactory, which may affect QOL.

Material and methods

This prospective, cross-sectional study included patients who underwent BCS. The patients answered the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life questionnaire (EORTC QLQ) - C30, EORTC QLQ-BR23 and Breast Cancer Treatment Outcome Scale (BCTOS) questionnaires, underwent cosmetic breast self-assessment and had their breasts photographed. The photographs were analyzed using Breast Cancer Conservative Treatment. Cosmetic results (BCCT.core). For the categorical variables, the frequencies were calculated; for the numerical variables, the mean and standard deviation. The BCCT.core results were compared with the cosmetic results of the patients, which yielded four possible results: concordant satisfaction, discordant satisfaction, concordant dissatisfaction and discordant dissatisfaction (satisfactory BCCT.core evaluation but patient dissatisfaction). The kappa test was used for agreement between categorical variables. Student’s t test and Mann-Whitney were used to assess the relationship between QOL and cosmetic results. The ANOVA were performed with the adjusted Bonferroni correction to compare the four groups.

Results

A total of 300 patients were evaluated, 298 underwent self-assessment of the breasts (76.8% satisfactory results and 23.2% unsatisfactory) and 297 underwent BCCT.core evaluation (29.9% satisfactory results and 79.1% unsatisfactory), which had a kappa of 0.095 (p = 0.01). In the self-assessment, patients with unsatisfactory cosmetic results had worse overall health, physical, functional, emotional, cognitive, and social capacity, fatigue, pain, dyspnea, financial difficulties, body image; future prospects, side effects, breast symptoms, functional aspects, cosmetics and edema. When we used software evaluation, these relationships did not have the same proportions. In patients with “discordant dissatisfaction”, higher pain scores and worse functionality on the treated side were found.

Conclusion

An unsatisfactory cosmetic result was associated with worse QOL, which may be associated with other factors, such as breast pain and functionality.
Asymptotic analysis of mathematical model describing a new treatment of breast cancer using AZD9496 and palbociclib
Authors: Nave Ophir
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Cancer is a collective name for a group of diseases consisting of dozens of different types of malignant tumors, characterized by rapid and uncontrolled proliferation of cells in the body. Cancer can start almost anywhere in the human body such as the breast, prostate, colorectal, brain, bones, lungs, bladder etc. The main differences between the different types of cancer are related to the organ in which the tumor develops and the type of cells that compose the tumor.

Method

This paper focused on the breast cancer. Breast cancer is a malignant tumor that originates in the breast tissue. It is the most common malignant tumor in women. There are several types of breast cancer, but in all types early diagnosis and treatment is crucial. In this study, the treatment of breast cancer involving a combination of two drugs was investigated: the oral estrogen receptor inhibitor AZD9496 and the CDK4/6 protein inhibitor Palbociclib. The mathematical model that described the interaction between the cancer cells, the treatment, and the immune system cells includes a system of nonlinear ordinary differential equations of the firs order. In general, dynamic variables of a given system change each at a different rate. And it is not possible to know from the mathematical model which variable is fast and which is slow. Therefore, in order to reveal the hierarchy of the system of equations ,a numerical algorithm called the singularly perturbed vector field (SPVF) was applied. This algorithm transform the mathematical model to a new coordinate system in which the rate of change of each dynamic variable of the system can be known.

Results and Discussion

After writing the mathematical model in new coordinates, the equilibrium point was obtained analytically. The stability of the equilibrium points is investigated, which is essential from a practical perspective. Investigating the stability of the equilibrium points allows determination of when the tumor does not continue to develop and thereby allows adjustment of treatment continuation.
Diagnosis of hepatocellular carcinoma using liquid biopsy-based biomarkers: a systematic review and network meta-analysis
Authors: Jiang Yutong , Qi Shangwen , Zhang Rongrong , Zhao Ruixia , Fu Yu , Fang Yuxuan , Shao Mingyi
Published: January 2025

Introduction

The diagnostic performance of liquid biopsy-based biomarkers for HCC was comprehensively compared in this network meta-analysis (NMA).

Methods

A thorough literature search was conducted to identify all comparative studies from January 1, 2000, to January 11, 2024. The QUADAS-2 tool was utilized to appraise the quality of studies involving diagnostic performance. R (v4.3.3) and an ANOVA model-based NMA were used to assess the diagnostic accuracy of each biomarker.

Results

This study included 82 studies comprising a total of 15,024 patients.CircRNA demonstrated significantly superior performance in distinguishing HCC from healthy populations (superiority index: 3.550 (95% CI [0.143-3])) compared to other diagnostic biomarkers for HCC. “mRNA exhibited significantly superior performance in distinguishing HCC from liver disease patients (superiority index:10.621 (95% CI [7-11])) compared to other diagnostic biomarkers for HCC. Further subgroup analysis of the top-ranking liquid biopsy-based diagnostic biomarkers revealed that hsa_circ_000224 (superiority index: 3.091 (95% CI[0.143-9]) ranked remarkably higher in distinguishing HCC from both healthy populations and liver disease patients. Subgroup analysis of mRNA demonstrated that KIAA0101 mRNA (superiority index: 2.434 (95% CI [0.2-5]) ranked remarkably higher in distinguishing HCC from healthy populations and liver disease patients, respectively.

Discussion

The results of this meta-analysis show that circRNA and mRNA are the first choice for HCC diagnosis. Subsequent analysis of circRNA and mRNA highlighted hsa_circ_000224, hsa_circ_0003998, KIAA0101 mRNA and GPC-3mRNA as the optimal diagnostic biomarkers for distinguishing HCC from healthy populations and liver disease patients, respectively. Well-structured prospective studies are crucial to comprehensively validate these findings.

Systematic Review Registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/,identifier CRD42024521299.