bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The development and evaluation of nine obesity-based indices for gallstones in U.S. adults
Authors: Wu Xiaodong , Song Yanhong , Wu Shuodong
Published: January 2025

Objective:

Gallstones have gradually become a highly prevalent digestive disease worldwide. This study aimed to investigate the association of nine different obesity-related indicators (BRI, RFM, BMI, WC, LAP, CMI, VAI, AIP, TyG) with gallstones and to compare their predictive properties for screening gallstones.

Methods:

Data for this study were obtained from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) for the 2017-2020 cycle, and weighted logistic regression analyses with multi-model adjustment were conducted to explore the association of the nine indicators with gallstones. Subject working curves were analyzed to assess the screening ability of the nine indicators. In addition, the association between the most predictive indicator and gallstones was investigated with smooth curve fitting, and differences in risk across populations were explored with subgroup analyses.

Results:

In total, 3654 participants were involved in the final analysis and 383 (10.48%) carried gallstones. The results of weighted multifactorial logistic regression analysis indicated that BRI, RFM, BMI, WC, LAP, and CMI were independent risk factors for gallstones. The ORs for the highest quartile were 4.13 for RFM, 3.13 for BRI, 2.85 for BMI, 2.86 for WC, 2.45 for LAP, and 1.49 for CMI. The area under the ROC curve for RFM was 0.70. The Delong test compared the performance of different ROCs and revealed that the difference between the area under the curve of RFM and the other metrics was significant (P < 0.05). Smooth curve fitting suggested a linear positive correlation between RFM and gallstones (LLR > 0.05), especially in women, non-Hispanic White, insufficient physical activity, hypertensive, and diabetic populations.

Conclusion:

RFM, BRI, BMI, WC, LAP, and CMI were essential indicators for recognizing gallstones. By comparison, we realized that RFM was a better predictor of gallstones.
Exploring the landscape of exosomes in heart failure: a bibliometric analysis
Authors: Li Hui , Li Zhitao , Fu Qinghui , Fu Shuiqiao , Xiang Tao
Published: January 2025

Background:

Exosomes, which carry bioactive RNAs, proteins, lipids, and metabolites, have emerged as novel diagnostic markers and therapeutic agents for heart failure (HF). This study aims to elucidate the trends, key contributors, and research hotspots of exosomes in HF.

Methods:

We collected publications related to exosomes in HF from the Web of Science Core Collection. Using VOSviewer, CiteSpace, Excel, and SRplot software, we performed a visualization analysis of authors, countries, institutions, keywords, and references.

Results:

The publications on exosomes in the field of HF (N = 2127) has grown rapidly. China (N = 245, 42.683%) and the United States (N = 170, 29.617%) are the leading contributors in this area. Wang L (N = 14, 2.443%) is the most prolific author in the field. Key areas of exosome research in HF include mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), angiogenesis, and microRNAs. Additionally, keywords and references analysis reveal that exosome research in HF is primarily focused on the role of exosomes in intercellular communication in HF, the value of miRNAs in exosomes as diagnostic markers, and the therapeutic mechanisms of MSC-derived exosomes.

Conclusion:

Exosomes are receiving increasing attention in the field of HF. Mapping the development landscape of exosomes in HF will help researchers accelerate progress in this area.
Morphologic Correlations With Homologous Recombination Deficiency in High-grade Serous Carcinomas
Authors: Chapagain Udita , Huecker Julia B. , Sun Lulu
Published: January 2025

High-grade serous carcinomas (HGSCs) with homologous recombination deficiency (HRD) respond favorably to platinum therapy and poly ADP ribose polymerase (PARP) inhibitors. Mutations in BRCA1 and BRCA2 commonly cause HRD and have been associated with Solid, pseudoEndometrioid, and Transitional-like (SET-like) histology. Mutations in other homologous recombination repair (HRR) genes as well as epigenetic changes can also result in HRD; however, morphologic correlates have not been well-explored in these cases. We hypothesized that HGSCs with HRD, regardless of the etiology, are associated with specific morphologic features. Forty-three cases of HGSC with genomic profiling, which included HRR gene mutation analysis and HRD score, were evaluated. The morphologic patterns, degree of nuclear atypia, necrosis, mitotic index, and tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) were determined. The results showed that HRD-high status was significantly associated with the presence of BRCA1/2 mutation, SET-like morphology, geographic necrosis, and severe nuclear atypia. Additional HRR pathway genes with oncogenic mutations identified included ATM, BRIP1, BLM, FANCC, CDK12, CHEK2, RAD51C, and RAD51D. Almost one-third of HRD-high tumors did not have mutations in any HRR pathway genes identified. In conclusion, HGSC with HRD, regardless of BRCA1/2-status, was associated with SET-like morphology and more severe nuclear atypia. Identifying and reporting these patterns of tumor morphology can prompt genomic profiling with prognostic, therapeutic, and genetic counseling implications.
Case Report: ESR1::CITED2 Fusion in a Malignant Uterine Tumor Resembling Ovarian Sex Cord Tumor
Authors: Abbasi Ferheen , Nucci Marisa R. , Doron Ben , Ruskin Rachel , Chien Jeremy , Watkins Jaclyn C. , Karnezis Anthony N.
Published: January 2025

Uterine tumor resembling ovarian sex cord tumor (UTROSCT) is a rare, typically benign uterine tumor occurring over a wide age range (mean 52.4 yr). UTROSCTs often harbor translocations between ESR1 and nuclear receptor coactivators NCOA1-NCOA3. Here, we present a 21-yr-old woman with a 16 cm complex uterine mass on CT. Grossly, the tumor had an infiltrative appearance. Histologically, it consisted of mild to moderately atypical, spindled cells with ovoid nuclei, growing in fascicles and cords within fibrous to myxohyaline stroma, with tongue-like infiltration of the myometrium. Immunohistochemically, tumor cells were positive for AE1/AE3, ER, PR, vimentin, WT-1, and CD56, and negative for inhibin, calretinin, SMA, desmin, and CD10. Whole exome and whole transcriptome sequencing identified a pathogenic ESR1::CITED2 fusion. The tumor recurred twice (15 and 21 mo after initial surgery) in the abdomen and pelvis. Taken together, the findings suggest this tumor may represent a malignant UTROSCT variant with a novel translocation.
Verruciform Acanthotic Vulvar Intraepithelial Neoplasia Harbors Recurrent Genomic Alterations Found in HPV-independent Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Cook Eleanor , Kramer Claire J.H. , Bosse Tjalling , van Poelgeest Mariette , Van de Vijver Koen , Nucci Marisa R. , Parra-Herran Carlos
Published: January 2025

The term verruciform acanthotic vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia (vaVIN) was coined to describe HPV-independent p53-wildtype lesions with characteristic clinicopathologic characteristics and association with vulvar squamous cell carcinoma (vSCC). We aimed to expand on the molecular landscape of vaVIN using comprehensive sequencing and copy number variation profiling. vaVIN diagnosis in institutional cases was confirmed by a second review, plus negative p16 and wildtype p53 by immunohistochemistry. Multigene next-generation sequencing and shallow-whole genome sequencing were used to survey for single-nucleotide variants (SNV), copy number alterations, and structural variants. Targeted TERT promoter sequencing was also carried out. Nineteen patients with vaVIN were included; 4 had concurrent vSCC. The median patient age was 74 (range 56–90) years. Genomic aberrations were noted in 18 cases (95%) as follows: PIK3CA in 10 (53%), CDKN2A in 7 (37%), HRAS in 6 (32%), FAT1 and NOTCH1-2 in 5 each (26%), TSC2 in 2 (11%), and PTEN, ARID2, and KRAS in 1 (5%) each. TERT promoter variants were detected in 11 of 13 cases successfully tested (85%). Five vaVINs harbored a TP53 variant but showed wild-type p53 immunohistochemical expression. In one of these, the concurrent carcinoma showed abnormal p53 and biallelic TP53 mutations. Out of 15 patients with follow-up (mean: 20, range: 2–50 mo), vaVIN persistence/recurrence was seen in 8 (53%), and subsequent vSCC in 2 (13%). At the last encounter, 3 (20%) patients had persistent disease and 1 (7%) died of vSCC. vaVIN is characterized by a wider molecular spectrum, beyond known alterations in PIK3CA, HRAS, and ARID2, to include TERT promoter, CDKN2A, FAT1, and NOTCH1-2, which are characteristic of HPV-independent vSCC. vaVIN can occur with concurrent or subsequent carcinoma, sometimes with fatal outcomes. These findings support the concept of vaVIN as a neoplastic process within the family of HPV-independent vulvar neoplasia.
Mesonephric and Mesonephric-like Adenocarcinomas of the Gynecologic Tract: A Case Series and a Review of the Literature
Authors: Liu Lisa , Storino Morgan , Chen Yiting Stefanie , Walker Allison , Da Costa Deline , Shukla Shivani , Graul Ashley
Published: January 2025

We sought to present and describe all cases of mesonephric adenocarcinoma (MNAC) and mesonephric-like adenocarcinomas (MLAs) at our institution. These cancers are rare, morphologically similar tumors of the female reproductive tract. In this case series, we present 13 new cases of MNAC/MLA that were identified at St. Luke’s University Health Network from 2016 to 2024. Demographics, clinical characteristics, and pathologic findings were collected from chart review. There were 6 uterine, 5 ovarian, and 2 cervical MNAC/MLAs. At presentation, more than half of the patients presented at early stages with 7, 2, 3, and 1 diagnosed at stages I, II, III, and IV, respectively. All patients underwent upfront surgical resection and were recommended adjuvant therapy. One patient declined adjuvant treatment. At the time of writing, 9 of 13 patients have completed treatment and have no evidence of disease, 1 is alive with disease, 1 is currently undergoing treatment, and 2 died of disease. Median overall survival (OS) was 15 mo (95% CI: 2.2–27.8 mo). Current literature regarding MNACs/MLAs suggests an overall poor prognosis, with the majority presenting at advanced stages. This case series describes patients diagnosed with early-stage disease and reports on their histopathology, treatment regimens, and clinical outcomes. The majority of these patients are without recurrence after upfront treatment. Continued surveillance of these patients to determine long-term outcomes is necessary to further elucidate overall prognosis.
The Role of hCG Expression in Endometrial Cancer Prognosis
Authors: Gülseren Varol , Dolanbay Mehmet , Çağli Fulya , Dağgez Mine , Topaloğlu Nahit , Öztürk Figen , Özçelik Bülent , Serin İbrahim Serdar , Güngördük Kemal
Published: January 2025

This study aims to investigate the expression pattern of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) in the tissue of endometrioid type endometrial cancer (EEC) using immunohistochemistry, and also to investigate the effect of hCG expression pattern on prognosis and survival in EEC. We evaluated patients who were operated between 2010 and 2020 in the obstetrics and gynecology clinic of our center due to EEC. In total, 194 women were determined to be in either the hCG-negative group (n=137) or the hCG-positive group (n=57). The detection rate of deep myometrial invasion (16.8% vs. 36.8%; P=0.002), lymphovascular space invasion (10.9% vs. 24.6%; P=0.015), and metastatic lymph node (6.7% vs. 21.8%; P= 0.003) in patients with hCG-positive staining were analyzed to be significantly higher. Five-year disease-free survival (DFS) (P= 0.015) and overall survival (OS) (P= 0.024) rates were found to be higher in the hCG-negative group. hCG expression was found to be an independent risk factor for recurrence, and DFS in grade I-II EEC was limited to the uterus and with superficial myometrial invasion (low risk). No independent risk factors for OS were analyzed. hCG positivity is a risk factor with poor prognostic factors in endometrial cancer. It was concluded that hCG expression in low-risk EEC is a valuable negative prognostic factor for recurrence and DFS.
Rising Rates of Urethral Bulking: A Retrospective Study of a National Database
Authors: Whitaker Taylor , DeAndrade Samantha , Douglass K. Marie , Yazdany Tajnoos
Published: January 2025

Importance

Stress urinary incontinence (SUI) affects approximately 50% of women. There are limited data regarding trends in management as treatment options have changed.

Objective

This study aimed to analyze trends in the surgical management of SUI, including slings and urethral bulking, from 2012 to 2022.

Study Design

Patients from the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database who had undergone a sling or urethral bulking procedure were identified by Current Procedural Terminology code. Descriptive statistics and independent paired t tests were performed.

Results

A total of 81,657 patients received either slings or urethral bulking from 2012 to 2022. The number of slings performed peaked in 2017, decreased in 2020, and has subsequently increased. The rate of urethral bulking increased from 2019 to 2022. The average age patients who received urethral bulking was 64 years versus 56 years for sling patients (P < 0.05). These patients were more likely to be American Society of Anesthesiology class III compared to those receiving slings (39% vs 25%, respectively, P < 0.05). Readmission and reoperation rates were not statistically different. Less invasive procedures were more likely to be performed concurrently with bulking.

Conclusions

Sling placement is the most common surgical procedure for SUI but it decreased in 2020, likely due to COVID-19-related delays, and has not yet returned to prepandemic levels. Urethral bulking has become more common, possibly due to new agents available in U.S. markets. Patients who received urethral bulking were more likely to be older, have severe systemic disease, and underwent a less invasive concurrent procedure. Further research is needed to understand these trends.
Left ventricular transcriptome and extracellular vesicle-derived miRNAs in porcine donation after circulatory death (DCD) hearts undergoing prolonged working modeex situperfusion
Authors: Wang Fulin , Lucchinetti Eliana , Lou Phing-How , Freed Darren H. , Zaugg Michael
Published: January 2025

Donation after circulatory death (DCD) hearts suffer from warm ischemia-reperfusion injury, which compromises graft quality. We have previously demonstrated that a postconditioning-based cardioprotective treatment (1% Intralipid, 2% (v/v) sevoflurane, 3 nM remifentanil) improved the function and viability of porcine DCD hearts undergoingex situheart perfusion (ESHP). However, transcriptional changes in DCD hearts subjected to prolonged working mode ESHP as compared with healthy hearts, and more so transcriptional changes in the presence or absence of cardioprotection, as well as the early reperfusion profile of extracellular vesicle (EV)-derived miRNAs, critical regulators of the transcriptional control, have not been investigated. A total of 5,483 differentially expressed transcripts were identified in left ventricular tissue samples of DCD hearts (N=10) collected after 6 hours of ESHP when compared with healthy hearts not subjected to ESHP (N=8), irrespective of cardioprotection. Downregulation of protein synthesis, metabolic, and DNA repair gene sets was most prominent, while inflammatory and remodeling gene sets were upregulated. Between DCD hearts that were treated with (pDCD_ESHP, N=5) or without (uDCD_ESHP, N=5) cardioprotection, only 43 transcripts were differentially regulated. Specifically, lipid breakdown, beta-oxidation, and DNA repair gene sets were upregulated in pDCD_ESHP, whereas lipid accumulation, inflammation, oxidative stress, and maladaptive remodeling gene sets were upregulated in uDCD_ESHP. Predominantly cardioprotective EV-derived miRNAs were released into the perfusate in pDCD_ESHP, while predominantly cardiac injury-associated miRNAs were released into the perfusate in uDCD_ESHP. Cardioprotection promoted adaptive rather than maladaptive transcriptional changes and enabled the release of potentially beneficial miRNAs.
Longitudinal changes in infant attention-related brain networks and fearful temperament
Authors: Filippi Courtney A. , Massera Alice , Xing Jiayin , Park Hyung G. , Valadez Emilio , Elison Jed , Kanel Dana , Pine Daniel S. , Fox Nathan A. , Winkler Anderson
Published: January 2025

Anxiety disorders are hypothesized to stem in part from altered development of attention-related brain networks. These networks, including the dorsal attention network (DAN), frontal parietal network (FPN), salience network (SN), and default mode network (DMN), are crucial for regulating attention to salient environmental cues. Altered resting-state functional connectivity (rsFC) among these networks in the first months of life relates to fearful temperament, a risk marker for anxiety. Nevertheless, it remains unclear how these networks develop beyond these initial months, particularly in fearful infants. This study characterizes the development of attention-related brain networks over the first two years of life and identifies rsFC changes associated with fearful temperament. Using data from the Baby Connectome Project (from 180 infants across 396 sessions), we analyzed rsFC among the DMN, SN, DAN, and FPN. We examined age-related changes in rsFC across these networks and their relations with fearful temperament at age 2. Results demonstrated age-related decreases in rsFC in DAN – FPN and DMN – SN. Less decrease in DAN – FPN rsFC over time related to greater fear at age 2. This pattern manifested in analyses relating longitudinal trajectories of rsFC and fearful temperament across all available timepoints. Low initial DAN – SN rsFC related to increasing fearfulness over time. This study provides novel insights into the neurodevelopmental origins of fearful temperament.
Evaluation of out-of-distribution detection methods for data shifts in single-cell transcriptomics
Authors: Theunissen Lauren , Mortier Thomas , Saeys Yvan , Waegeman Willem
Published: January 2025

Automatic cell type annotation methods assign cell type labels to new, unlabeled datasets by leveraging relationships from a reference RNA-seq atlas. However, new datasets may include labels absent from the reference dataset or exhibit feature distributions that diverge from it. These scenarios can significantly affect the reliability of annotation predictions, a factor often overlooked in current automatic annotation methods. The field of out-of-distribution detection (OOD), primarily focused on computer vision, addresses the identification of instances that differ from the training distribution. Implementing OOD methods in the context of novel cell type annotation and data shift detection for single-cell transcriptomics may enhance annotation accuracy and trustworthiness. We evaluate 6 OOD detection methods: LogitNorm, MC dropout, Ensembles, Energy- based OOD, Deep NN and Posterior networks, for their annotation and OOD detection performance in both synthetical and real-life application settings. We show that OOD detection methods are able to accurately detect novel cell types and show their promise to detect severe data shifts on non-integrated datasets. Moreover, integration of the OOD datasets improves annotation performance, but interferes with OOD detection, diminishing novel cell type capabilities of the OOD methods.
Investigating the Structural Effects of Anti-Thrombin Anticoagulant Aptamers on Activation of Human Prothrombin
Authors: Troisi Romualdo , Cangiano Alessandro , Cowieson Nathan , Spiridonova Vera , Del Vecchio Pompea , Paduano Luigi , Sica Filomena
Published: January 2025

Disorders of the blood coagulation remain a leading cause of death and disability worldwide raising the search for therapeutic agents able to modulate the coagulation cascade. Different oligonucleotide aptamers have been selected against different coagulation factors and some of them are in preclinical or clinical studies. In particular, anti-thrombin aptamers are promising drugs as they inhibit the activity of the α-thrombin and, simultaneously, limit thrombin production via prothrombinase by binding its precursor prothrombin. To investigate the interaction of these aptamers with prothrombin, we performed extensive analyses using calorimetric and spectroscopic techniques, which suggested that they recognize proexosite I of prothrombin and exosite I of thrombin with comparable affinity. SAXS experiments performed on the complex formed by the protein and NU172, the only anti-thrombin aptamer in advanced clinical trials, provided structural insights into aptamer-prothrombin recognition. Interestingly, the aptamer binding to proexosite I shifts the open-closed equilibrium of prothrombin toward the open conformation. A reasonable mechanism underlying the effects of anti-thrombin aptamers towards prothrombin conversion into thrombin has been proposed. Altogether, these results definitively qualify these aptamers as bitargeted drugs, being able to modulate both thrombin function and generation, and supply structural bases to design new anticoagulants, which lack health side effects.
Centromeres in the thermotolerant yeastK. marxianusmediate attachment to a single microtubule
Authors: Barrero Daniel J. , Hedouin Sabrine , Mao Yizi , Asbury Charles L. , Stergachis Andrew , O’Toole Eileen , Biggins Sue
Published: January 2025

Eukaryotic chromosome segregation requires spindle microtubules to attach to chromosomes through kinetochores. The chromosomal locus that mediates kinetochore assembly is the centromere and is epigenetically specified in most organisms by a centromeric histone H3 variant called CENP-A. An exception to this is budding yeast which have short, sequenced-defined point centromeres. InS. cerevisiae, a single CENP-A nucleosome is formed at the centromere and is sufficient for kinetochore assembly. The thermophilic budding yeastKluyveromyces marxianusalso has a point centromere but its length is nearly double theS. cerevisiaecentromere and the number of centromeric nucleosomes and kinetochore attachment sites is unknown. Purification of native kinetochores fromK. marxianusyielded a mixed population, with one subpopulation that appeared to consist of doublets, making it unclear whetherK. marxianusshares the same attachment architecture asS. cerevisiae.Here, we demonstrate that though the doublet kinetochores have a functional impact on kinetochore strength, kinetochore localization throughout the cell cycle appears conserved between these two yeasts. In addition, whole spindle electron tomography demonstrates that a single microtubule binds to each chromosome. Single-molecule nucleosome mapping analysis suggests the presence of a single centromeric nucleosome. Taken together, we propose that theK. marxianuspoint centromere assembles a single centromeric nucleosome that mediates attachment to one microtubule.
Essential Role of B Cells in Early Defense AgainstAcinetobacter baumanniiPulmonary Infections
Authors: Islam Aminul , Actis Luis A. , Wilson Timothy J.
Published: January 2025

Treatment of antibiotic-resistantAcinetobacter baumanniiinfections has become exceedingly challenging, leading to higher morbidity and mortality. Therefore, the development of new therapeutics to treat these infections is critically needed, and immunotherapy is one potential treatment option. Immune responses against this pathogen, particularly lymphocyte- mediated responses, are not well understood. In this study, we investigated the role of B cells in innate resistance toA. baumanniipulmonary infection using a B cell-deficient (µMT) mouse model. B cell-deficient mice were impaired in clearing A. baumannii from the lung, liver, and spleen and failed to prevent extrapulmonary dissemination ofA. baumanniiafter infection. Transcriptomic analyses indicated that the lack of B cells was associated with reduced expression of several genes encoding antimicrobial proteins. In addition, B cell deficiency was associated with pulmonary eosinophilia and increased pulmonary recruitment of Ly6C+NK cells followingA. baumanniiinfection. This study demonstrates the significant role of B cells in providing early protection againstA. baumanniiinfection and implicates B cell-dependent mechanisms beyond antibody-mediated bacterial resistance.
Biphasic inflammation control by dedifferentiated fibroblasts enables axon regeneration after spinal cord injury in zebrafish
Authors: John Nora , Fleming Thomas , Kolb Julia , Lyraki Olga , Vásquez-Sepúlveda Sebastián , Parmar Asha , Kim Kyoohyun , Tarczewska Maria , Gupta Pooja , Singh Kanwarpal , Marini Federico , Singh Sumeet Pal , Falk Sven , Franze Kristian , Guck Jochen , Wehner Daniel
Published: January 2025

Fibrosis and persistent inflammation are interconnected processes that inhibit axon regeneration in the mammalian central nervous system (CNS). In zebrafish, by contrast, fibroblast-derived extracellular matrix deposition and inflammation facilitate regeneration. However, the regulatory cross-talk between fibroblasts and the innate immune system in the regenerating CNS is not understood. Here, we show that zebrafish fibroblasts possess a dual role in inducing and subsequently resolving inflammation, which are both essential for regeneration. We identify a transient, injury-specificcthrc1a+fibroblast state with an inflammation-associated, less differentiated, and non-fibrotic profile. Induction of this fibroblast state precedes and contributes to the initiation of the inflammatory response. At the peak of neutrophil influx,cthrc1a+fibroblasts coordinate the resolution of inflammation. Disruption of these inflammation dynamics inhibits axon regeneration and alters the mechano-structural properties of the lesion environment. This establishes the biphasic inflammation control by dedifferentiated fibroblasts as a pivotal mechanism for CNS regeneration.

ONE SENTENCE SUMMARY

Dedifferentiated fibroblasts sequentially induce and resolve neutrophil-driven inflammation through cytokine release to facilitate axon regeneration after spinal cord injury in zebrafish.

HIGHLIGHTS

Time-resolved single-cell transcriptomics of zebrafish spinal cord regeneration.

Spinal cord injury induces fibroblast dedifferentiation.

Dedifferentiated fibroblasts sequentially induce and resolve inflammation.

Dysregulation of inflammation dynamics alters mechano-structural tissue properties.
Resonant shattering flares as asteroseismic tests of chiral effective field theory
Authors: Neill Duncan , Tsang David , Drischler Christian , Holt Jeremy W. , Newton William G.
Published: January 2025

Chiral effective field theory (χEFT) has proved to be a powerful microscopic framework for predicting the properties of neutron-rich nuclear matter with quantified theoretical uncertainties up to about twice the nuclear saturation density. Tests of χEFT predictions are typically performed at low densities using nuclear experiments, with neutron star (NS) constraints only being considered at high densities. In this work, we discuss how asteroseismic quasinormal modes within NSs could be used to constrain specific matter properties at particular densities not just the integrated quantities to which bulk NS observables are sensitive. We focus on the crust-core interface mode, showing that measuring this mode's frequency would provide a meaningful test of χEFT at densities around half the saturation density. Conversely, we use nuclear matter properties predicted by χEFT to estimate that this mode's frequency is around 185±50Hz. Asteroseismic observables such as resonant phase shifts in gravitational-wave signals and multimessenger resonant shattering flare timings, therefore, have the potential to provide useful tests of χEFT.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Analytical structure of
kt
clustering to any order
Authors: Khelifa-Kerfa K.
Published: January 2025

We present a general analytical expression for the fixed-order structure of the distribution of a generic nonglobal observable with the kt jet algorithm at any perturbative order. This novel formulation is obtained within the framework of the eikonal approximation, assuming strong-energy ordering of emitted partons. The proposed formula is applicable to a wide range of processes at both lepton and hadron colliders.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Searches for long-lived dark photons at proton accelerator experiments
Authors: Kyselov Yehor , Ovchynnikov Maksym
Published: January 2025

A systematic and unified analysis of the capability of lifetime frontier experiments to probe the parameter space of hypothetical long-lived particles is crucial for defining the targets of future searches. However, such a comprehensive study has not yet been conducted for dark photons—hypothetical massive particles that kinetically mix with Standard Model photons. Existing studies often rely on outdated assumptions about dark photon phenomenology, leading to inaccurate calculations of the parameter space, including regions already excluded or relevant for future experiments. In this paper, we present a comprehensive calculation of the parameter space for GeV-scale dark photons and light dark matter accessible to lifetime frontier experiments. Our analysis highlights how theoretical uncertainties in dark photon phenomenology can significantly impact experimental sensitivity across coupling and mass parameters. To facilitate further investigation, we provide these results in a publicly accessible form, incorporating updated dark photon phenomenology into the event generator ensalc.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Thermodynamics of stealth black holes
Authors: Bakopoulos Athanasios , Karakasis Thanasis , Papantonopoulos Eleftherios
Published: January 2025

Using Euclidean methods we investigate the thermodynamics of stealth black hole solutions, which are solutions that geometrically are indistinguishable from those of general relativity; however, they are accompanied by a nontrivial additional field that does not backreact to the metric. We find that in general, one can observe shifts in the mass and/or the entropy of such black holes; hence, at least at the thermodynamic level, the stealth solutions may be distinguished by those of general relativity. We also point out an example, the , where a nontrivial scalar field can accompany an (A)dS-Schwarzschild black hole without altering the thermodynamic quantities. We point out that thermodynamic discrepancies arise due to the additional boundary terms emanating from the stealth fields, where care should be given in order for the theory at hand to possess a well-defined variational procedure.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Signatures of dark and baryonic structures on weakly lensed gravitational waves
Authors: Brando Guilherme , Goyal Srashti , Savastano Stefano , Villarrubia-Rojo Hector , Zumalacárregui Miguel
Published: January 2025

Gravitational lensing offers a powerful tool for exploring the matter distribution in the Universe. Thanks to their low frequencies and phase coherence, gravitational waves (GWs) allow for the observation of novel wave-optics features (WOFs) in lensing, inaccessible to electromagnetic signals. Combined with the existing accurate source models, lensed GWs can be used to infer the properties of gravitational lenses. The prospect is particularly compelling for space-borne detectors, where the high signal-to-noise ratio expected from massive black hole binary mergers allows WOFs to be distinguished deep into the weak lensing regime, drastically increasing the detection probability. Here, we investigate in detail the capacity of the LISA mission to detect WOFs caused by dark matter halos, galaxies, and the supermassive black holes (SMBHs) within them. We estimate the total optical depth to be λtot∼6×10−3 for the loudest binaries of total mass MBBH∼106M⊙, with the dominant contribution coming from SMBHs. We also find that WOFs in low-mass binaries MBBH∼104M⊙ are more likely due to the central galaxies. Within our model of gravitational lenses, we predict O(0.1)−O(1) weakly lensed events to be detectable during the five years of LISA mission, depending on the source population models. We show that WOFs signatures are very sensitive to the properties of dark matter halos with Mvir∈(106–108)M⊙: Increasing the compactness parameter by ∼3 in that range raises the detection rate by ∼26. Additionally, we show that collective effects from the complex inner halo structure can further enhance detectability. This suggests that lensed GWs in LISA will be an excellent probe of dark-matter theories, baryonic, and halo substructures.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Multiparticle Flux-Tube S-matrix Bootstrap
Authors: Guerrieri Andrea , Homrich Alexandre , Vieira Pedro
Published: January 2025

We introduce the notion of jets, states of collinear flux-tube excitations. We argue for the analyticity, crossing, and unitarity of the multiparticle scattering of these jets and, through the S-matrix bootstrap, place bounds on a set of finite-energy multiparticle sum rules. Such bounds define a matrioska with a smaller and smaller allowed regions as we impose more constraints. The Yang-Mills flux tube, as well as other interesting flux-tube theories recently studied through lattice simulations, lie inside a tiny island hundreds of times smaller than the most general space of allowed theories.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Handle on the antiferromagnetic spin structure of NiO using a ferromagnetic adlayer
Authors: Heppell E. , Maccherozzi F. , Veiga L. S. I. , Langridge S. , van der Laan G. , Hesjedal T. , Backes D.
Published: January 2025

Antiferromagnets (AFs) are characterized by spin structures that are resistant to external magnetic fields, rendering them ideal for persistent information storage but challenging to control. This study demonstrates that a thin ferromagnetic adlayer can serve as a magnetic ‘lever’ to provide a strong handle on the spin texture of an adjacent antiferromagnet. In bilayers composed of NiO(001) and Co, the expected exchange bias effect—a unidirectional shift in the Co hysteresis due to coupling with NiO—is notably absent. Instead, a strong interfacial coupling is observed, causing the NiO to partially follow the magnetization of Co under an applied magnetic field. Using x-ray magnetic linear dichroism, we detect an inversion of dichroism, indicating a reorientation of the Néel vector in NiO. X-ray spectromicroscopy imaging further reveals a direct correlation between ferromagnetic and antiferromagnetic domain structures. These findings are explained using a toy model that distinguishes between stable and unstable AF domains, highlighting the dynamic interplay between NiO and the Co adlayer in the presence of a magnetic field.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Crystalline-symmetry-protected Majorana modes in coupled quantum dots
Authors: Pandey Bradraj , Alvarez Gonzalo , Dagotto Elbio , Zhang Rui-Xing
Published: January 2025

We propose a minimalist architecture for achieving various crystalline-symmetry-protected Majorana modes in an array of coupled quantum dots. Our framework is motivated by the recent experimental demonstrations of two-site and three-site artificial Kitaev chains in a similar setup. We find that introducing a π-phase domain wall in the Kitaev chain leads to a pair of mirror-protected Majorana zero modes located at or near the junction. Joining two π junctions into a closed loop, we can simulate two distinct classes of two-dimensional higher-order topological superconducting phases, both carrying symmetry-protected Majorana modes around the sample corners. As an extension of the π junction, we further consider a general vertex structure where n Kitaev chains meet, i.e., a Kitaev n vertex. We prove that such an n vertex, if respecting a dihedral symmetry group Dn, necessarily carries n vertex-bound Majorana modes protected by the Dn symmetry. Resilience of the junction and vertex Majorana bound states against disorder and correlation effects is also discussed. Our architecture paves the way for designing, constructing, and exploring a wide variety of artificial topological crystalline phases in quantum-dot experiments.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Solving Quantum Dynamics with a Lie-Algebra Decoupling Method
Authors: Qvarfort Sofia , Pikovski Igor
Published: January 2025

Quantum technologies rely on the control of quantum systems at the level of individual quanta. Mathematically, this control is described by Hamiltonian or Liouvillian evolution, requiring the application of various techniques to solve the resulting dynamic equations. Here, we present a tutorial for how the quantum dynamics of systems can be solved using a Lie-algebra decoupling method. The approach involves identifying a Lie algebra that governs the dynamics of the system, enabling the derivation of differential equations to solve the Schrödinger equation. As background, we include an overview of Lie groups and Lie algebras aimed at a general-physicist audience. We then prove the Lie-algebra decoupling theorem and apply it to both closed and open dynamics. The results represent a broad methodology to find the dynamics of quantum systems with applications across many fields of modern quantum research.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Turkmen women’s traditional craft skills in post-disaster recovery: the case of the 2019 Northeast floods in Iran
Authors: Hassani Atoosa , Fayazi Mahmood , Mottaki Zoheir , Adib Morteza , Dehbandi Ramin , Khalili Gheidari Yasamam , Seraji Fatemeh
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This study investigates why Turkmen women’s traditional handicraft skills have declined and explains how the local, traditional craft skills accelerated the post-flood recovery of Turkmen women in the aftermath of the 2019 Northeast floods in Iran.

Design/methodology/approach

The research adopts a case study approach, employing reflective thematic analysis.

Findings

Post-disaster recovery spurred a shift from traditional to modern lifestyles through new housing designs, enhanced female literacy and greater economic participation. However, this transition devalued traditional crafts due to heightened household chores, material scarcity and reduced market demand. Nonetheless, women with craft skills played a pivotal role in household recovery by repairing damaged items and crafting dowries for their daughters, illustrating their contribution to social and economic resilience.

Social implications

These research findings shed light on the importance of traditional craft skills in enabling the female household member, in particular, to recover from disasters and contribute to the recovery of their households and communities.

Originality/value

The originality of this study lies in its focus on the specific context of Turkmen women’s traditional craft skills and their role in post-disaster recovery, particularly after the 2019 Northeast floods in Iran. While there is existing research on post-disaster recovery mechanisms, this study uniquely examines the under-researched impact of traditional craft skills on the recovery process, specifically for female household members.
Instagram’s luxury alchemy: unveiling influencer sorcery in elevating perceived product quality for high-end brands
Authors: Ruangwanit Nopporn , Thongmak Mathupayas
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This study investigates the influences of brands, sources and congruence on perceived product quality, as well as the role of content creator types in Instagram influencer marketing for luxury brands.

Design/methodology/approach

The samples consisted of Instagram users who follow content creators who posted about luxury brands. A survey instrument was used to collect data from 916 respondents who were of working age (22–55 years old).

Findings

The analysis showed acceptable fits for both measurement and structural models. The results reveal the positive effect of luxury brand identity on content attributes, which influence both content creator-product fit and perceived product quality and the direct influence of fit on perceived quality. Perceived uniqueness acts as a negative driver.

Practical implications

The findings of this study guide luxury brand marketers in choosing peers and influencers, selecting appropriate content creators and emphasizing effective content attributes.

Originality/value

This study identifies novel antecedents for perceived quality, a part of brand equity, including drivers and obstacles. It also explores the impact of content creator types, such as friends and/or acquaintances, compared to influencers and/or celebrities, offering insights beyond previous research.
Attractiveness of technical vocational education and training among Ghanaian youth – any sign of hope?
Authors: Ansah Francis , Swanzy Patrick , Obeng Regina Anuwah , Asmah Alexander Kwadwo
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This study investigates the level of Ghanaian youth's interest in Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) certification courses, using career outcome expectations and demographic characteristics such as age, gender and educational attainment, as framed by the Social Cognitive Career Theory (SCCT).

Design/methodology/approach

Employing a descriptive cross-sectional survey design, the research engaged 691 youth selected through quota sampling. Data collection was conducted via computer-assisted personal interviews (CAPI), and chi-square tests were used to analyse the relationships between demographic variables and interest in TVET.

Findings

The analysis revealed that 97% of respondents are interested in pursuing TVET courses. Interest levels were significantly associated with age, particularly among youth aged 10 -14 years and above 25 years but showed no significant differences based on gender or educational attainment. The results also show that a greater proportion (64%) of the respondents prefer self-employment careers to formal employment-seeking careers (36%) after completing TVET certification courses.

Research limitations/implications

The study’s cross-sectional design and reliance on self-reported data from a specific geographical area limits the generalizability of findings to broader contexts.

Practical implications

The high interest in TVET among the youth suggests a need to increase investment in TVET infrastructure and curriculum development to meet this demand.

Social implications

The absence of significant gender differences in TVET interest suggests progress toward gender equality in vocational education, which could contribute to reducing occupational segregation.

Originality/value

This study uniquely contributes to the literature by applying SCCT to explore how demographic characteristics and career outcome expectations converge to influence young people's interest in TVET in a non-Western context. It extends the applicability of SCCT, demonstrating its relevance in understanding the dynamics of TVET attractiveness among youth in Ghana.
Managing cyber incivility in digital workplaces: a systematic review and HR strategies
Authors: Ju Boreum (Jenny) , Pak Sunjin
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This study aims to address workplace cyber incivility in digital environments by proposing human resource (HR) management strategies derived from a systematic review of the literature. It seeks to clarify the concept of cyber incivility, identify its antecedents and outcomes and provide practical recommendations for HR practices to mitigate its effects.

Design/methodology/approach

A systematic review following PRISMA guidelines analyzed 31 empirical studies (2006–2024) using Google Scholar, PsycINFO, Business Source Complete and Web of Science databases with keywords, including “cyber incivility,” “digital workplace” and “employee well-being.” Studies were included if they focused on workplace cyber incivility, provided primary data and were published in English, while those on cyber aggression or bullying were excluded. Two authors independently screened studies, resolving discrepancies through discussion. Thematic analysis synthesized findings on definitions, antecedents, outcomes and moderators.

Findings

The review identifies gaps in the literature, including inconsistent measurement approaches, limited understanding of cyber incivility’s multidimensional nature, insufficient examination of dyadic perspectives between perpetrators and targets and fragmented research across different digital platforms. The included studies (n = 31) examined diverse professional contexts, with sample sizes ranging from 69 to 830 participants. Cyber incivility is shaped by individual factors (e.g. personality traits, demographic characteristics), situational factors (e.g. workload, stress) and technology-driven factors (e.g. misinterpretation in digital communication). Its negative impacts include reduced job satisfaction, heightened stress, burnout and increased turnover intentions. Evidence-based HR recommendations include developing digital communication guidelines, implementing resilience-building programs and offering training on digital etiquette and conflict resolution.

Originality/value

This study provides a comprehensive framework for understanding cyber incivility in digital work environments and offers evidence-based HR interventions to foster respectful communication and improve employee well-being. It bridges existing research gaps by synthesizing fragmented studies and highlighting actionable strategies for HR professionals.
Navigating digital encounters: insights from frontline professionals on public service delivery
Authors: Kirjavainen Hanna , Jalonen Harri
Published: January 2025

Purpose

Digitalization is transforming public service delivery, potentially increasing efficiency and availability but risking excluding vulnerable people with weak digital skills. Despite technological advances, frontline professionals remain a crucial element of service value creation, as many services require human interaction, even if it is digitally mediated. This study surveys frontline professionals to capture their experiences and assess whether digital encounters meet their clients’ needs.

Design/methodology/approach

The dataset comprises 15 interviews with professionals assisting migrant clients. The data were analysed using abductive thematic analysis, utilizing viewpoints about the digital divide and digital public services from previous literature.

Findings

The study emphasizes three pivotal elements inherent in digital public encounters with migrant clients: (1) a high administrative burden due to clients’ weak technological competency, Finnish skills and knowledge of the local public service system, (2) the importance of interpersonal trust and (3) the shifting and pressurized role of the professional.

Originality/value

The main novelty of this study lies in illustrating that administrative burden and trust are interconnected. This study contributes to public management research by enhancing the understanding of digital public service development. It provides crucial insights from frontline professionals, which could pave the way for applying technology to public services to benefit all citizens, including vulnerable populations.