bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Novel Selenium-Based Nanozyme (GSH-Se) Ameliorates Colitis in Mice by Modulating the Nrf2/Keap1 and GPx4 Pathways
Authors: Wu Caimei , Zhang Yuwei , Zhou Ziyun , Zhang Kun , Zhou Yixuan , Tang Jiayong , Zhang Ruinan , Li Hua , Wu Fali , Bai Shipping , Wang Xianxiang , Lyu Yang
Published: February 2025

Combination of selenium (Se) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) can reduce the dose of Se used while concurrently exploiting their antioxidative performance, which can be used as a potential treatment for ulcerative colitis. Nanozymes possess higher stability, are more economical, and have more multifunctionalities than natural enzymes and thus could be an ideal approach for their combination. Therefore, this study synthesised a nanozyme using glutathione (GSH) and Se—GSH-Se—and evaluated its alleviating effects on colitis in mice induced by dextran sulphate sodium salt (DSS). Three doses of GSH-Se, 6 mM, 12 mM, and 18 mM were supplemented in DSS-induced colitis in mice. Findings showed that GSH-Se supplementation ameliorated colitis by improving the colonic mucosal integrity, reducing inflammatory responses and oxidative stress, and alleviating gut microbiota imbalance in mice with DSS-induced colitis. Moreover, an in vitro experiment was performed to unravel the molecular mechanism by which GSH-Se ameliorated colitis in mice, based on lipopolysaccharide-induced inflammation in mouse colon epithelial cells. The results suggested that the alleviating effects of GSH-Se on mouse colitis was likely mediated by the activation of the Nrf2/Keap1 (nuclear factor E2-related factor 2/Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1) and GPx4 signalling pathways.
A Comprehensive Review of Nanoparticle-Based Drug Delivery for Modulating PI3K/AKT/mTOR-Mediated Autophagy in Cancer
Authors: Rahman Md Ataur , Jalouli Maroua , Bhajan Sujay Kumar , Al-Zharani Mohammed , Harrath Abdel Halim
Published: February 2025

The phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/AKT/mammalian target of the rapamycin (mTOR) pathway plays a crucial role in the regulation of autophagy, a cellular mechanism vital for homeostasis through the degradation of damaged organelles and proteins. The dysregulation of this pathway is significantly associated with cancer progression, metastasis, and resistance to therapy. Targeting the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway presents a promising strategy for cancer treatment; however, traditional therapeutics frequently encounter issues related to nonspecific distribution and systemic toxicity. Nanoparticle-based drug delivery systems represent a significant advancement in addressing these limitations. Nanoparticles enhance the bioavailability, stability, and targeted delivery of therapeutic agents, facilitating the precise modulation of autophagy in cancer cells. Functionalized nanoparticles, such as liposomes, polymeric nanoparticles, and metal-based nanocarriers, facilitate targeted drug delivery to tumor tissues, minimizing off-target effects and improving therapeutic efficacy. These systems can deliver multiple agents concurrently, enhancing the modulation of PI3K/AKT/mTOR-mediated autophagy and related oncogenic pathways. This review examines advancements in nanoparticle-mediated drug delivery that target the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway, emphasizing their contribution to improving precision and minimizing side effects in cancer therapy. The integration of nanotechnology with molecularly targeted therapies presents substantial potential for addressing drug resistance. Future initiatives must prioritize the optimization of these systems to enhance clinical translation and patient outcomes.
Polyethylene Glycolylation of the Purified Basic Protein (Protamine) of Squid (Symplectoteuthis oualaniensis): Structural Changes and Evaluation of Proliferative Effects on Fibroblast
Authors: Li Na , Xu Jiren , Li Yu , Elango Jeevithan , Wu Wenhui
Published: February 2025

In recent years, arginine-rich basic proteins have garnered significant attention due to their essential roles in various biological processes. However, the potential of marine-derived proteins in this domain remains largely unexplored. This study presents, for the first time, the isolation and purification of a 14.3 kDa protamine (SOP) from the mature spermatogonial tissues of Symplectoteuthis oualaniensis. Additionally, we obtained an 18.5 kDa PEGylated derivative, SOP-PEG. The physicochemical properties of both SOP and SOP-PEG were comprehensively characterized using SEM, FTIR, CD, and TGA. PEGylation markedly altered the surface morphology, secondary structure, and thermal stability of SOP. In vitro studies demonstrated that PEGylation significantly enhanced the biocompatibility of SOP, leading to improved proliferation of L-929 fibroblasts. Furthermore, both SOP and its PEGylated derivative (SOP-PEG) regulated the cell cycle, activated the PI3K-Akt signaling pathway, and modulated anti-apoptotic mechanisms, suggesting their potential to support cell survival and facilitate tissue regeneration. Notably, SOP-PEG exhibited superior bioactivity, likely attributable to its enhanced delivery efficiency conferred by PEGylation. Collectively, these findings underscore the promising applications of SOP and SOP-PEG in regenerative medicine and highlight the pivotal role of PEGylation in augmenting the bioactivity of SOP.
Treatment Outcomes of Simple and Complex Central Serous Chorioretinopathy
Authors: Kamao Hiroyuki , Goto Katsutoshi , Ouchi Tatsuhiro , Shirakawa Yuki , Hiraki Ryutaro , Mizukawa Kenichi , Miki Atsushi
Published: February 2025

Objectives: To assess the association between clinical outcomes and the multimodal imaging-based classification of central serous chorioretinopathy (CSC). Methods: This retrospective study included 207 eyes from 155 treatment-naïve patients with CSC. The eyes were categorized into two groups, including the simple CSC group (n = 164) and the complex CSC group (n = 43), based on the presence of retinal pigment epithelial atrophy spanning two or more disc areas. All patients were initially observed without treatment for 3–6 months. For cases with persistent subretinal fluid after this observation period, treatment modalities, including continued observation, photocoagulation (PC), or photodynamic therapy (PDT), were selected. Results: Patients in the complex CSC group were more likely to be older (p = 0.01) and male (p = 0.01) than those in the simple group and to exhibit a higher prevalence of bilateral involvement (p < 0.001) and previous CSC episodes (p < 0.001) than those exhibited by patients in the simple group. Eyes with complex CSC exhibited a comparable incidence of spontaneous resolution within 6 months and a higher incidence of recurrence after spontaneous resolution within 6 months than eyes with simple CSC. In both the simple and complex CSC groups, the PDT subgroup exhibited a lower recurrence rate than that of the PC subgroup (simple CSC: p < 0.001, complex CSC: p = 0.03). Conclusions: Although CSC is typically a self-limiting disease often managed conservatively, patients with complex CSC, characterized by bilateral involvement or a history of previous episodes, are at a higher risk of subretinal fluid recurrence and may benefit from early interventions without a period of observation, such as PDT.
Comparative Functional and Morphological Data of Different IOL Dislocation Treatment Methods
Authors: Vaiciuliene Renata , Rumelaitiene Ugne , Speckauskas Martynas , Jasinskas Vytautas
Published: February 2025

Background: This study compared the visual and morphological outcomes between iris fixation and anterior chamber intraocular lens (ACIOL) implantation for late spontaneously dislocated intraocular lens (IOL)–capsular bag complexes in a tertiary reference center in Lithuania. Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted between 2017 and 2019 involving 80 patients (83 eyes) with late spontaneous IOL–capsular bag dislocation. Patients underwent repositioning and fixation of the dislocated IOL to the iris (IF group) or IOL exchange with an ACIOL implant (ACIOL group). Pre- and postoperative assessments included best-corrected distance visual acuity (BCDVA), intraocular pressure (IOP), corneal endothelial cell density (ECD) and macular thickness (evaluating whether cystoid macular edema (CME) had occurred). Results: Both groups showed a significant improvement in BCDVA, with a more remarkable improvement in the IF group (median: 0.1 logMAR) than in the ACIOL group (median: 0.3 logMAR), p = 0.001. Corneal astigmatism increased significantly in the ACIOL group (p < 0.001) but remained stable in the IF group. IOP management outcomes were better in the IF group as fewer eyes required additional glaucoma treatment. ECD decreased in both groups, but the decrease was significantly greater in the ACIOL group (p < 0.001). Postoperative CME occurred in 4.4% of IF eyes and 39% of ACIOL eyes (p = 0.01). Conclusions: The iris fixation of late dislocated IOL–capsular bag complexes is a safe and minimally invasive technique that offers better visual outcomes, less astigmatism and fewer complications than ACIOL exchange.
Enhancing Storm Wave Predictions in the Gulf of Mexico: A Study on Wind Drag Parameterization in WAVEWATCH III
Authors: Shankar C. Gowri , Cambazoglu Mustafa Kemal
Published: February 2025

This study focuses on the significance of wind input source terms and their impact on wave generation in the wave model, WAVEWATCH III. Storm wave modeling capabilities were assessed with three different wind source term schemes ST4, ST6, and a new implementation ST6-IWD in a wave model to study Hurricane Ida (2021). A nested modeling approach was employed with high-resolution atmospheric wind forcing products obtained from the NOAA and the ECMWF. The model results were compared to field observations from NDBC buoys. One key finding indicates that the ST4 physical scheme is not necessarily suitable for modeling waves under extreme wind conditions. The ST6 and ST6-IWD schemes performed well for the hurricane scenario and the wave parameters obtained from these two sets of simulations were in good agreement with the observed values. The wind source term derived in the ST6 scheme holds good for wind speeds up to 50 m/s, whereas the drag method in ST6-IWD could remain stable up to ~113 m/s wind speeds. Therefore, this study recommends the ST6-IWD scheme, as it is suitable for more extreme hurricane wind conditions. It was also identified that the ST6-IWD method better estimates the peak wave periods and peak directions for Ida’s conditions.
Myocardial Work Analysis in ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction: Insights into Left Ventricular Ejection Fraction—A Pilot Study
Authors: Frișan Alexandra-Cătălina , Lazăr Mihai-Andrei , Șoșdean Raluca , Simonescu Marius , Brie Daniel-Miron , Mornoș Aniko , Luca Silvia Ana , Ionac Ioana , Mornoș Cristian
Published: February 2025

(1) Background: Left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) is traditionally used to assess prognosis in acute ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) patients. However, LV myocardial work (MW), evaluated echocardiographically, offers additional prognostic information by considering loading conditions. (2) Methods: This prospective study investigated the prognostic value of MW indices in 119 consecutive STEMI patients treated with primary percutaneous coronary angioplasty, stratified into three LVEF categories: reduced (≤40%), mildly reduced (41–49%), and preserved LVEF (≥50%). Transthoracic echocardiography was performed before discharge, and the primary endpoint included heart failure hospitalization, ventricular arrhythmias, all-cause mortality and new acute coronary syndromes. (3) Results: Patients with preserved or mildly reduced LVEF had higher global longitudinal strain, global work index, global constructive work (GCW), and global work efficiency, as well as lower global wasted work (GWW), compared to those with reduced LVEF. GCW was the strongest predictor of adverse outcomes in the preserved LVEF group (AUC = 0.730, p = 0.035), while GWW demonstrated robust predictive performance in the reduced LVEF group (AUC = 0.787, p = 0.001). (4) Conclusions: MW indices, particularly GCW and GWW, provide significant prognostic value in distinct LVEF categories in STEMI patients. These findings indicate that MW enhances risk stratification and informs management in this patient population.
Investigation and Study on the Biology and Morphology of Apis florea and Apis dorsata in Southern China
Authors: Qu Xinying , Zhang Xinru , Sun Tian , Qiu Zequn , Lu Qihuang , Bi Zhenghui , Qin Hanrong , Hu Junjun , Tang Peng , Cao Lianfei , Chen Xiao
Published: February 2025

Honey bees are crucial pollinators that play a vital role in maintaining ecological balance. The colonies of managed honey bees in China increased rapidly in the past 20 years. Whether the rapid increase in managed bee populations would affect the survival of wild honey bees deserves attention. There are four species of the genus Apis in Guangxi, China, including Apis florea, Apis dorsata, Apis mellifera ligustica, and Apis cerana. This study conducted an investigation on the biological characteristics of the four species and measured 40 morphological characteristics. The results showed that for the four species, their swarming periods, mating periods, the emergence of drones, and the nectar and pollen source plants highly overlap. This leads to potential competition for the optimum mating space, nectar, and pollen. The comparison of morphological traits between samples collected in 2012 and 2023 showed that the aspect ratios of the forewings of both Apis florea and Apis dorsata have significantly increased. This change may be attributed to the rapid increase in managed honey bees’ populations, which has encroached upon the living spaces of A. florea and A. dorsata. The results of coefficient of variations showed that Apis florea and Apis dorsata exhibit high genetic diversity. Our results indicated that the increased colonies’ number of managed honey bees has an effect on Apis florea and Apis dorsata, but they are not facing great threats to their survival. Continuous monitoring of the the diversity of Apis florea and Apis dorsata must be maintained. Preserving wild honey bees is of great significance for the ecological balance.
Association of Sheep Tail Type with the T Gene Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms Loci
Authors: Wang Daqing , Zhao Yifan , Fang Wenjing , Liang Junxi , Li Kuo , Wang Caiyun , Cao Guifang
Published: February 2025

This study aimed to develop an effective tail typing detection technology based on the TaqMan probe technology for genotyping different sheep tail types. A total of 122 Hulun Buir short-tailed sheep and 50 Hu sheep were enrolled in the study to compare their tail morphologies, lengths, and widths. Through the Sanger sequencing of loci 333 and 334 in the second exon of the T gene, distinct genotypes of various types of Hulun Buir short-tailed sheep and Hu sheep were identified. In addition, the TaqMan probe technology was employed to genotype the two SNP loci of the T gene in the two types of sheep. It was observed that the second exon of the T gene in Hulun Buir short-tailed sheep at loci 333 and 334 exhibited two genotypes, CT/CT and CT/GG, but this feature was not detected for the T gene in Hu sheep. The detection accuracy of the TaqMan probe technology for sheep tail types exceeded 70%, suggesting that it is an effective tail-typing detection technology. This study provides a solid economic foundation and theoretical ideas that will improve the breeding of short-tailed sheep.
Recent Progress in Pyro-Phototronic Effect-Based Photodetectors: A Path Toward Next-Generation Optoelectronics
Authors: Bhatt Vishwa , Choi Min-Jae
Published: February 2025

Since photodetectors are widely used in a variety of applications, such as imaging, optical communication, security and safety, motion detection, environmental sensing, and more, they are a crucial part of many technologies. The performance of photodetectors has significantly improved due to the advanced development of third-generation semiconducting materials caused by the novel pyro-phototronic effect. This effect; induced by localized heating under pulsed incident light, enhances the generation, separation, and collection of charge carriers within photodetectors. The combined pyroelectric and photoelectric effects resulting from this process are collectively termed the pyro-phototronic effect. It is crucial to understand how the pyro-phototronic effect affects the optoelectronic processes that take place during photodetection. This review addresses the latest advancements in photodetector performance by presenting the pyro-phototronic effect for a range of semiconductors. We provide a comprehensive summary of the pyro-phototronic effect in different semiconducting materials and outline recent developments in photodetectors.
Travelling Waves in Neural Fields with Continuous and Discontinuous Neuronal Activation
Authors: Burlakov Evgenii , Oleynik Anna , Ponosov Arcady
Published: February 2025

The main object of our study is travelling waves in vast neuronal ensembles modelled using neural field equations. We obtained conditions that guarantee the existence of travelling wave solutions and their continuous dependence under the transition from sigmoidal neuronal activation functions to the Heaviside activation function. We, thus, filled the gap between the continuous and the discontinuous approaches to the formalization of the neuronal activation process in studies of travelling waves. We provided conditions for admissibility to operate with simple closed-form expressions for travelling waves, as well as to significantly simplify their numerical investigation. This opens the possibilities of linking characteristics of cortical travelling waves, e.g., the wave shape and the wave speed, to the physiological parameters of the neural medium, e.g., the lengths and the strengths of neuronal connections and the neuronal activation thresholds, in the framework of the neural field theory.
Uncertain Particle Filtering: A New Real-Time State Estimation Method for Failure Prognostics
Authors: Liang Jingyu , Shao Yinghua , Lio Waichon , Liu Jie , Kang Rui
Published: February 2025

Particle filtering (PF) has become a state-of-the-art method in predicting the future degradation trend of the target equipment based on its current state, with its advantage in sequentially processing the observed data for continual state estimation. The convergence speed is important in PF for real-time state estimation. However, the Bayesian theorem can only converge when sufficient observations are available, which does not always fulfill the requirement in time-varying scenarios with abrupt changes in health state. In this work, based on the newly proposed Uncertainty Theory, Uncertain Particle Filtering (UPF) is derived for the first time. The initialization, prediction, update, and resampling processes are explained in detail in the scope of Uncertainty Theory. The UPF method significantly improves the performance of traditional particle filters by enhancing the speed of convergence in dynamic parameter estimation. Resampling techniques are introduced to mitigate particle phagocytosis, thereby improving computational accuracy and efficiency. Two case studies, addressing the degradation of the capacitor in an enhanced electromagnetic railgun and the degradation of the battery, are conducted to verify the effectiveness of the proposed UPF method. The results show that the UPF method achieves a faster convergence speed compared to traditional approaches.
Detection of a Spatial Source Term Within a Multi-Dimensional, Multi-Term Time-Space Fractional Diffusion Equation
Authors: Alhazmi Mofareh , Alrashedi Yasser , Sidi Hamed Ould , Sidi Maawiya Ould
Published: February 2025

The main objective of this study was to identify the undetermined source term (ST) in a fractional space-time scattering equation with multiple terms, using data obtained from the most recent observations. To address this complex problem, we reformulated the equation by adopting a regularization-based optimization approach. This methodology not only makes it possible to determine the existence of a single minimum solution, but also to assess its stability. In the numerical context, we estimate and approach the function (ST) by applying the Levenberg–Marquardt regularization method, a powerful tool for solving inverse problems. In order to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed approach, we performed numerical simulations in one-dimensional and two-dimensional scenarios. These simulations illustrate our method’s ability to process complex data and provide accurate and stable solutions. Through this extended approach, we aimed to discover the single source term in a multi-term space-time fractional scattering equation, ensuring robust and reliable results, supported by the most recent observational data.
Anti-Neuroinflammatory Eremophilane Sesquiterpenoids from Marine-Derived Fungus Phoma sp. DXH009
Authors: Yang Guanyu , Qin Mengwei , Chen Mingbin , Shi Yujia , Liu Siyi , Rao Yong , Huang Ling , Fu Ying
Published: February 2025

Three new eremophilane sesquiterpenoids (1–3), together with six known analogues, were isolated from the marine-derived fungus Phoma sp. DXH009. Their structures were elucidated through detailed NMR and MS spectroscopic analysis, and the absolute configurations of 1–4 were determined by conformational analysis and quantum chemical TDDFT-ECD calculation. Their anti-neuroinflammatory activities were evaluated using the lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced BV2 microglial cells. The results indicated that compound 5 (dihydrosporogen AO-1) exhibited significant inhibitory effects on the production of nitric oxide (NO) levels (EC50 = 3.11 μM) with less cytotoxicity, leading to a reversal effect in inducing microphage polarization in LPS-treated BV2 microglial cells. These were correlated with suppressions of the canonical NF-κB pathway as well as the expression levels of key neuroinflammatory markers, including COX2, TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β. Correspondingly, treating 5 in LPS-induced mice efficiently ameliorated neuroinflammation in the tissues of the cortex and hippocampus. These findings suggest that eremophilane sesquiterpenoid 5 could be a potential candidate for the development of anti-neuroinflammatory drugs.
A Rare Case Report of a Human Dirofilaria repens Infection
Authors: Schatz Christoph , Füßl Magdalena , Caf Yasemin , Schmitz Katja , Kresse Daniela , Ludwig Wilhelm , Walochnik Julia , Knabl Ludwig
Published: February 2025

In June 2024, a 41 year-old woman presented to the infectious diseases outpatient clinic with a left inguinal mass progressing in size. The patient had previously been on vacation in Greece. When a tumor was initially suspected, the mass was surgically removed. Staining with Grocott methenamine silver and Alzian blue were inconspicuous, but histopathologic examination revealed a clear histiocytic demarcation, followed by a confirmation of the suspected diagnosis of dirofilariasis caused by Dirofilaria repens by PCR. Even though still a rare event in Austria, the number of human D. repens cases has been continuously increasing in recent years. This is partly due to the increased spread of the parasite due to climate change and globalization.
Investigation of Silicon Cyclone Dust and Products of Its Flotation Enrichment
Authors: Karlina Antonina I. , Karlina Yuliya I. , Gladkikh Vitaliy A.
Published: February 2025

This article presents the X-ray fluorescence and X-ray diffraction analysis results and the granulometric composition of silicon production cyclone dust and its flotation enrichment products. The technology used for the preliminary preparation of cyclone dust before flotation enrichment is presented. The process of fine media flotation should include the careful preparation and reliminary processing of raw materials, otherwise it is difficult to achieve high flotation selectivity. Technological preparation necessarily includes the following stages: preliminary preparation of dust for flotation; repulping of prepared dust; sonochemical treatment of pulp; gravitational separation of sand phase; flotation separation. A structural diagram of the flotation separation technology used for the silicate and carbon phases of cyclone dust has been developed. As a result of this research, the characteristics of cyclone dust have been obtained, allowing us to draw conclusions about the possibility of its flotation processing and further use of the obtained products in the construction industry. The results of a study of carbon in a froth product have also been obtained. Carbon nanotubes have been discovered.
Construction of ZnO/r-GO Composite Photocatalyst for Improved Photodegradation of Organic Pollutants
Authors: Ding Yun , Qin Wenzhen , Zhu Huihua , Dai Yuhua , Hong Xiaowei , Han Suqin , Xie Yu
Published: February 2025

In this work, a simple hydrothermal method was used to prepare a series of ZnO/r-GO (ZGO-x) catalysts. The obtained products were subjected to a series of characterizations, which showed that the zinc oxide particles were deposited onto r-GO and that the crystal structure was not disrupted. In addition, due to the large specific surface area and the good electrical conductivity of r-GO, more photogenerated electrons can be rapidly transferred from ZnO to r-GO to participate in the reaction, thus improving the photocatalytic performance. The degradation rate of the ZGO-3 sample reached 100% for RhB after simulated sunlight irradiation for 150 min, whereas the pure ZnO degraded RhB by about 83% under the same environment. ZGO-3 also showed the best photocatalytic degradation of methyl orange, with 100% degradation in 180 min, whereas pure ZnO degraded only 87.64% of methyl orange under solar irradiation.
Design Strategies of S8 Molecule Cathodes for Room-Temperature Na-S Batteries
Authors: Shi Sha-Sha , Cai Zi-Qi , Lu Chen-Kai , Li Jing , Geng Nan-Nan , Lin Dong-Tao , Yang Tao , Liu Tao
Published: February 2025

Sodium–sulfur batteries have been provided as a highly attractive solution for large-scale energy storage, benefiting from their substantial storage capacity, the abundance of raw materials, and cost-effectiveness. Nevertheless, conventional sodium–sulfur batteries have been the subject of critique due to their high operating temperature and costly maintenance. In contrast, room-temperature sodium–sulfur batteries exhibit significant advantages in these regards. The most commonly utilized cathode active material is the S8 molecule, whose intricate transformation process plays a crucial role in enhancing battery capacity. However, this process concomitantly generates a substantial quantity of polysulfide intermediates, leading to diminished kinetics and reduced cathode utilization efficiency. The pivotal strategy is the design of catalysts with adsorption and catalytic functionalities, which can be applied to the cathode. Herein, we present a summary of the current research progress in terms of nanostructure engineering, catalyst strategies, and regulating sulfur species conversion pathways from the perspective of high-performance host design strategy. A comprehensive analysis of the catalytic performance is provided from four perspectives: metal catalysts, compound catalysts, atomically dispersed catalysts, and heterojunctions. Finally, we analyze the bottlenecks and challenges, offering some thoughts and suggestions for overcoming these issues.
An In-Plane Single-Photon Emitter Combining a Triangular Split-Ring Micro-Optical Resonator and a Colloidal Quantum Dot
Authors: Mukai Kohki , Uchiyama Kyosuke , Iwata Kohei , Pribyl Issei
Published: February 2025

We propose a simple and innovative configuration consisting of a quantum dot and micro-optical resonator that emits single photons with good directionality in a plane parallel to the substrate. In this device, a single quantum dot is placed as a light source between the slits of a triangular split-ring micro-optical resonator (SRR) supported in an optical polymer film with an air-bridge structure. Although most of the previous single photon emitters in solid-state devices emitted photons upward from the substrate, operation simulations confirmed that this configuration realizes lateral light emission in narrow regions above, below, left, and right in the optical polymer film, despite the absence of a light confinement structure such as an optical waveguide. This device can be fabricated using silica-coated colloidal quantum dots, focused ion beam (FIB) lithography, and wet etching using an oxide layer on a silicon substrate as a sacrificial layer. The device has a large tolerance to the variation in the position of the SRR in the optical polymer film and the height of the air-bridge. We confirmed that Pt-SRRs can be formed on the optical polymer film using FIB lithography. This simple lateral photon emitter is suitable for coupling with optical fibers and for fabricating planar optical quantum solid-state circuits, and is useful for the development of quantum information processing technology.
Association Between Maternal Dietary Isoflavone Intake During Pregnancy and Childhood Allergic Rhinoconjunctivitis: The Japan Environment and Children’s Study
Authors: Yang Gui , Hisada Aya , Yamamoto Midori , Takatani Rieko , Konno Yuki , Mori Chisato , Sakurai Kenichi ,   The Japan Environment and Children’s Study (JECS) Group
Published: February 2025

Background/Objectives: Isoflavone (ISO) may have immunosuppressive and promoting effects. In this study, we aimed to examine the association between maternal dietary ISO intake during pregnancy and childhood allergic rhinoconjunctivitis at the age of 3 years using the Japanese Birth Cohort data. Methods: Overall, 78,549 mother–child pairs were studied. Maternal dietary ISO intake (the sum of genistein and daidzein) during pregnancy was evaluated using a food frequency questionnaire. Information on physician-diagnosed allergic rhinoconjunctivitis was collected from the caregiver-reported questionnaire. After classifying ISO intake into quartiles (Q1: reference), multivariable logistic regression analysis was employed to explore the association with allergic rhinoconjunctivitis. Results: No association was observed between maternal ISO intake and allergic rhinoconjunctivitis in any child. However, in the sex-stratified analysis, maternal ISO intake linked to allergic rhinoconjunctivitis in female children positively (Q2, adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 1.22, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.06–1.40; Q3, aOR: 1.17, 95% CI: 1.01–1.35; Q4, aOR: 1.24, 95% CI: 1.07–1.44). Conclusions: Maternal dietary ISO intake during pregnancy was sex-specifically linked to childhood allergic rhinoconjunctivitis in children. These findings provide insights into the need for estimating the optimal ISO consumption during pregnancy for allergy avoidance in children.
Student Use of Digital Patient Cases May Improve Performance in a Pharmacy Cardiovascular Therapeutics Course
Authors: Wong Paul J. , Morningstar-Kywi Noam , Kim Rory E. , Ng Tien M. H.
Published: February 2025

The use of digital patient cases (eCases) is associated with student-perceived improvements in learning. However, novel instructional tools must demonstrate measurable student benefits to justify ongoing use. This research sought to identify the impact of digital patient cases (eCases) on student performance in a PharmD cardiovascular course. Optional eCases for hypertension (HTN), venous thromboembolism (VTE), and acute heart failure (AHF) were incorporated into the course. Performance on the exams and course overall was compared between student cohorts based on eCase use. Aggregated data were analyzed by year. Additional analysis was performed for scores on exam items related to eCase content. From 2020 to 2022, a total of 322/562 students (57.3%) used any eCase. While there were no differences in 2020 and 2021, eCase users in 2022 had significantly higher course (83.6% vs. 79.7%, p = 0.002) and final exam scores (75.0% vs. 67.7%, p < 0.001) compared with non-users. VTE eCase users had higher scores on VTE exam items compared to non-users, but only in 2021. AHF eCase users received higher scores on AHF exam items compared to non-users in 2021 and 2022. Among certain cohorts, student eCase use was associated with improved performance, and the use of certain eCases showed differences in content-specific performance. The eCase is a promising instructional tool that warrants further investigation to determine best design elements for maximal effectiveness.
Genome-Wide Identification and Functional Analysis of AP2/ERF Gene Family in Passiflora edulis Sims
Authors: Luo Lanjun , Zhang Liping , Gu Ronghao , Ni Shihao , Yu Jingyao , Gao Yachao , Fang Chuanying
Published: February 2025

The Apetala2/Ethylene Responsive Factor (AP2/ERF) family represents a critical group of transcription factors in plants, recognized for their roles in growth, development, fruit ripening, and postharvest processes. This study aimed to identify and characterize the AP2/ERF gene family in passion fruit (Passiflora edulis Sims) and investigate their potential roles in flavor enhancement. A total of 91 PeAP2/ERF genes were identified and classified into five subfamilies. Chromosome localization and collinearity analysis demonstrated their distribution across all nine chromosomes of passion fruit, with tandem duplication events identified as a key driver of family expansion. Exon–intron configurations and motif compositions were highly conserved among PeAP2/ERF genes. Promoter cis-acting element analysis indicated potential regulation by environmental signals, including abiotic and biotic stresses, as well as hormonal cues. Postharvest storage induced the expression of 59 PeAP2/ERF genes over time. Notably, PeAP2-10 was found to enhance the expression of PeSTP6, a gene associated with sugar transport, suggesting its potential influence on the flavor profile of passion fruit. These findings provide valuable insights into the functional roles of PeAP2/ERF genes in passion fruit, highlighting their significance in postharvest management and flavor quality enhancement strategies.
Dicranum motuoense (Bryophyta): A New Taxon from China, with Special References to Its Complete Organelle Genomes
Authors: Huang Wen-Zhuan , Ma Xin-Yin , Tubanova Dolgor Y. , Dugarova Oyuna D. , Zhang Fen-Yao , Hu Jun , Zhu Rui-Liang , Wu Yu-Huan
Published: February 2025

Dicranum is one of the most diverse and widespread genera within the family Dicranaceae, encompassing ca. 110 accepted species worldwide. However, the taxonomy of this genus remains notoriously complex, with the circumscription of several species still unresolved, thereby limiting our understanding of the Dicranum’s diversity. During a recent survey of Dicranum in China, we found an intriguing species characterized by a unique combination of morphological traits including stiff and fragile leaves, sharply denticulate leaf apices, elongated, rectangular and porose laminal cells throughout, bistratose or partially bistratose laminal cells in the distal part, 1–2 stratose alar cells, and a transverse section of the costa in the lower portion of leaf with two stereid bands and undifferentiated epidermal layers. Morphological and molecular phylogenetic analyses, based on five chloroplast markers and one nuclear marker, support the recognition of this moss as a new species, which we described here as Dicranum motuoense sp. nov. Furthermore, we present the complete organellar genomes of this newly identified species. The chloroplast genome of D. motuoense is 123.94 kb in length, while the mitochondrial genome is 105.77 kb in length. A total of 127 genes and 66 genes were identified in the chloroplast and mitochondrial genomes, respectively. This study not only advances our understanding of species diversity with Dicranum but also contributes to the broader knowledge of its evolution. Additionally, a key for the identification of Dicranum species with fragile leaves is included.
Self-Healing Properties of Crosslinked PMMA-DVB Copolymer Microcapsules Based on Interfacial Polymerization
Authors: Jiang Xiaowei , Tang Chengwu , Yu Jiachuan , Zhou Yuankai , Zuo Xue
Published: February 2025

To address the issue of metal corrosion caused by microcracks in the coating on the steel structures of offshore drilling platforms, this study employs interfacial polymerization to prepare microcapsules with self-healing functionality for coatings. The microcapsules are fabricated through free radical polymerization between methyl methacrylate (MMA) and ammonium persulfate (APS), along with crosslinking reactions involving divinylbenzene (DVB). The particle size distribution and surface morphology of the microcapsules were optimized by adjusting process parameters using optical microscopy and scanning electron microscopy. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) were used to characterize the chemical structure and thermal stability of the microcapsules. The results show that when polyvinyl alcohol is used as the emulsifier, the oil–water ratio was 7.5:200, the amount of emulsifier was 1 wt%, the emulsification speed was 2500 r/min, the amount of initiator was 2 g, the core-to-wall ratio was 4:1, and the ambient temperature was 60 °C showed good sphericity, the microcapsules prepared under the optimized parameters exhibit good sphericity, a smooth surface, and an average particle size of 35.17 μm. They have a good core material encapsulation effect and thermal stability, which impart excellent self-healing properties to the epoxy coating. Such microcapsules have promising applications in mitigating the problem of metal corrosion of coatings due to microcracks and improving the service life and reliability of equipment.
Numerical Simulation of Acid Diversion and Wormhole Propagation Mechanism of Nanoparticle VES Acid in High-Temperature Carbonate Reservoirs
Authors: Wang Da , Wang Yunjin , Feng Puyong , Li Yuan , Zhang Kun , Zhou Fujian , Li Fuming , Gao Yancai
Published: February 2025

Uniform acid distribution is a critical challenge and a key factor for the successful acidizing of carbonate reservoirs. Previous experimental studies have shown that nanoparticles can enhance the viscosity and thermal resistance of viscoelastic surfactant (VES) fracturing fluids. However, there has been limited research on the effects of nanoparticles on the wormhole propagation and diversion performance of VES acid. This paper establishes a nanoparticle VES acid rheological model based on rheology experiments, and introduces a porous medium temperature field and nanoparticle adsorption model into a two-scale continuum model to establish a mathematical model for the expansion of wormholes in nanoparticle VES acid. The accuracy of the wormhole model is verified through laboratory experiments. The effects of permeability contrast, initial acid temperature, and nanoparticle adsorption on the diversion performance and wormhole propagation of nanoparticle VES acid are analyzed. The results indicate that nanoparticle VES acid differs from conventional VES acid, with its invaded zone divided into high-viscosity and low-viscosity zones. The presence of the high-viscosity zone allows nanoparticle VES acid to improve wormhole propagation in low-permeability cores by 16.2% compared to conventional VES acid. At 393 K, nanoparticle VES acid has a better diversion effect in carbonate cores with permeability contrast of 10, as the acid fluid flows faster in high-permeability cores, resulting in wormhole shapes with more branches. Numerical model results show that when the permeability contrast is 8, increasing the injection temperature of the acid solution from 293 K to 368 K improves the ability of low-permeability cores by 33.3%. This study establishes a mathematical model for nanoparticle VES acid based on laboratory experiments and numerical simulations, investigates the effects of nanoparticles on VES rheological properties under acidic conditions, and clarifies the wormhole propagation and acid diversion behavior of nanoparticle VES acid, providing guidance for future field applications of this acid.
Optimal Dispatching Rules for Peak Shaving of Cascaded Hydropower Stations in Response to Large-Scale New Energy Integration
Authors: Xu Zhanxing , Liu Qiang , Xu Lingjun , Mo Li , Zhang Yongchuan , Zhang Xin
Published: February 2025

Fully tapping into the load regulation capacity of cascade hydropower stations on a river, in coordination with wind and photovoltaic power stations, can effectively suppress power fluctuations in new energy and promote grid integration and the consumption of new energy. To derive the peak shaving dispatching rules for cascaded hydropower stations in provincial power systems with a high proportion of new energy integration, a short-term peak shaving dispatching model for cascaded hydropower stations was first established considering large-scale new energy consumption; secondly, based on statistical learning methods, the peak shaving and dispatching rules of cascade hydropower stations in response to large-scale new energy integration were derived. Finally, taking wind farms, photovoltaic power stations, and the Qingjiang cascade hydropower stations in the power grid of Hubei Province, China, as research objects, the compensation effect of Qingjiang cascade hydropower stations on new energy output and the peak shaving performance for the power grid load were verified. The research results indicate that cascade hydropower can effectively reduce the peak valley load difference in provincial power grids and improve the overall smoothness of power grid loads while suppressing fluctuations in new energy output. After peak regulation by cascade hydropower, the residual load fluctuation indices of the power grid are improved by more than 20% compared to those after the integration of new energy. The probabilistic dispatching decisions for the facing period’s output through the optimal dispatching rules of cascade hydropower stations can provide dispatchers with richer decision-making support information and have guiding significance for the actual peak shaving dispatch of cascade hydropower stations.
Pressure Relief-Type Overpressure Prediction in Sand Body Based on BP Neural Network
Authors: Gao Yanfang , Li Yanchao , Yu Hongyan , Shen Shijie , Chen Zupeng , Li Dengke , Liang Xuelin , Huang Zhi
Published: February 2025

With the gradual depletion of global oil and gas resources, accurate prediction of anomaly formation pressure caused by pressure relief from other sources has become increasingly crucial in oil and gas exploration and development. The anomaly formation pressure caused by pressure relief affects the well’s stability and significantly impacts the safety and economy of drilling operations. However, traditional methods for predicting anomaly formation pressure, such as Bowers’ method, may not accurately identify the complex relationship between parameters and pore pressure. In contrast, the BP neural network (BPNN) can learn the complex relationship between input and output from data, which has a significant advantage in accurately identifying anomaly formation pressures caused by pressure relief from other sources. This study proposes a neural network-based method for accurately predicting anomaly formation pressure caused by pressure relief from other sources. The high quality of input data is ensured through meticulous preprocessing related to anomaly formation pressure caused by pressure relief from other sources, including data cleaning, standardization, and correlation analysis. Subsequently, model training was conducted to fully utilize its powerful nonlinear fitting ability and capture the complex changes in formation pressure caused by anomaly pressure relief from other sources. This method collects and organizes the parameters of the formation, including Gamma-ray (Gr), Delta-T (Dt), wave velocity (Vp), and Resistivity (R10), to train a BPNN model for predicting pressure relief type anomaly formations. The trained model has a Bayesian regularized backpropagation function, and the average absolute percentage error (AAPE) and correlation coefficient (R) of predicting pore pressure in well A are 4.22% and 0.875, respectively. To verify the proposed model’s effectiveness, it was applied to a blind dataset of adjacent B wells and successfully predicted pore pressure with AAPE of 5.44% and R of 0.864. We compare and analyze the formation pore pressure predicted by the traditional Bowers model and support vector machine (SVM) model. The prediction results of the BPNN model have more minor errors and are closer to the actual pressure coefficient. This study demonstrates the accuracy of the proposed model in predicting pressure relief type anomaly formation pressure using drilling data.
Agronomic Management, Socioeconomic Factors, and Carbon and Nitrogen Pools in Avocado–Coffee Systems in Huatusco, Veracruz, México
Authors: Ayala-Montejo Diana , Martínez-Zurimendi Pablo , Gallardo-Lancho Juan Fernando , Sánchez-Hernández Rufo , Valdés-Velarde Eduardo , Santiago-Vera Teresita de Jesús , Pérez-Nieto Joel
Published: February 2025

Avocado cultivation is displacing traditional coffee production in Veracruz, Mexico. This change modifies the floristic composition and agronomic management (AM), both of which are affected by socioeconomic factors and generate variation in edaphic conditions. The objective of this research was to identify the socioeconomic variables that modify the characteristics of the AM of avocado and coffee systems and have repercussions on the carbon and nitrogen pools. Four case studies were analyzed: a renovated coffee polyculture (SRC), severely cleaned coffee polyculture (IPC), avocado–coffee system (ACS), and conventional avocado orchard (CAO). A socioeconomic analysis was carried out with a 30-year economic projection and 56 variables. Three plots were installed where vegetal biomass carbon (VBC) was evaluated; soil samples were taken in theses plots at three depths (in triplicate) to determine soil organic carbon (SOC) and total soil nitrogen (TSN) in each case. A principal component analysis (PCA) was performed. Four economic variables explain 50.9% of the variation in agronomic management and five social variables 50.2%, in both cases where the component is considered. In all systems, the variation in VBC is explained by the agronomic management, while the reported SOC presents an inverse relationship with AM. The ACS presents the higher values in total C in the system, and SOC and TSN pools, while the CAO shows negative impacts concerning soil organic matter quality. The ACS is sensitive to investment, market diversity, education, and external organic residue addition, explaining the variations in AM and the TSN pools.