bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Number of Readmissions and Its Determinants Among Patients With Heart Failure at Referral Hospitals in Amhara Region, Northwest Ethiopia: A Cross‐Sectional Study Using Zero‐Inflated Negative Binomial Model, 2023
Authors: Gedfew Mihretie , Tesfaye Bekele , Amha Haile , Wondie Tirusew , Gedif Getnet , Gietaneh Wodajie , Akalu Tadesse Yirga , Yismaw Lieltework , Diress Gedefaw
Published: January 2025

Background

Heart failure is a leading cause of hospital readmissions in the Amhara region, Northwest Ethiopia.

Aim

This study aimed to determine the number of readmissions and identify the determinants among patients with heart failure at referral hospitals in the Amhara region, Northwest Ethiopia, in 2023.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study was conducted with 663 heart failure patients in Amhara region referral hospitals from September 2022 to February 2023. Simple random sampling was used for patient selection, and data were collected through chart reviews and interviewer‐administered questionnaires. Zero‐inflated negative binomial models were applied for data analysis. Data collection tools were pre‐tested for reliability and validity.

Results

Among 663 patients, 237 (35.7%) were readmitted at least once. An increased respiratory rate (IRR = 1.015; 95% CI: 1.0004, 1.031; p < 0.044) and longer medication duration (IRR = 1.011; 95% CI: 1.016, 1.051; p < 0.0001) were associated with more readmissions. Patients with poor social support had 59.4% fewer readmissions compared to those with good social support (IRR = −1.595; 95% CI: −0.02, −0.005; p < 0.041). A higher body mass index (IRR = 0.115; 95% CI: 0.035, 0.196; p < 0.004) was linked with a higher likelihood of remaining in the “always‐zero” group, while an increased pulse rate reduced the odds (IRR = −0.013; 95% CI: −0.025, −0.008; p < 0.036). The mortality rate among readmitted patients was 11.39%.

Conclusion

This study found significant readmission rates among HF patients. Factors such as respiratory rate and medication duration were linked to increased readmissions, while poor social support was associated with fewer readmissions, this likely reflects limited healthcare access in low‐ and middle‐income countries among individuals with lower social support. The high mortality rate underscores the need for targeted interventions to improve patient outcomes.
Enhancer‐dependent gene regulation in space, time, and malignancies
Authors: Blum Belinda , Dachtler Victoria , Feldmann Angelika
Published: January 2025

Control of cell‐type‐specific gene activation requires the coordinated activity of distal regulatory elements, including enhancers, whose inputs must be temporally integrated. Dysregulation of this regulatory capacity, such as aberrant usage of enhancers, can result in malignant transformation of cells. In this review, we provide an overview of our current understanding of enhancer‐driven gene regulation and discuss how this activity may be integrated across time, followed by epigenetic and structural alterations of enhancers in cancers.
Digital Transformation Disclosure and Bank Loans: An Information Heterogeneity Perspective
Authors: Liu Jianmei , Chen Shujing , Su Fei , Liu Jia
Published: January 2025

This study examines the impact of digital transformation disclosure on firms' ability to obtain bank loans, drawing upon a large dataset of Chinese listed firms from 2007 to 2021. Our findings reveal that both substantive and non‐substantive digital transformation disclosures are positively related to bank loans. However, for firms with higher information credibility, the positive relationship between substantive (non‐substantive) digital transformation disclosures and bank loans is relatively stronger. Channel analyses indicate that digital transformation disclosures bolster the accessibility of bank loans by boosting market attention and mitigating banks' default risk concerns. Moreover, government intervention is an alternative mechanism that impacts corporate access to bank loans. Further analysis reveals that substantive digital transformation disclosures can enhance corporate performance, improve resource allocation efficiency and alleviate underinvestment. In contrast, non‐substantial digital transformation disclosures have no such positive effects and may even lead to overinvestment. The moderating analysis indicates that firms that disclose non‐substantive digital transformation information may obtain excessive bank loans; however, corporate governance quality and FinTech development can constrain such speculative behaviour. Therefore, this study adds to the literature on the impact of digital transformation disclosure and complements studies on the determinants of bank loans.
International multistakeholder consensus statement on post‐publication integrity issues in randomized clinical trials by Cairo Consensus Group
Authors: Khan Khalid Saeed , Fawzy Mohamed , Chien Patrick , Geary Michael , Bueno‐Cavanillas Aurora , Nunez‐Nunez Maria , Zamora Javier , Bedaiwy Mohamed , Serour Gamal , D'Hooghe Thomas , Pacey Allan , Andrews Jeff , Scott James R. , Ball Elizabeth , Mahran Ali , Aboulghar Mohamed , Wasim Tayyiba , Abdelaleem Mahmoud , Maheshwari Abha , Odibo Anthony , Sallam Hassan , Grandi Giovanni , Zhang Jim , Fernández‐Luna Juan Manuel , Jawid Shaukat Ali , Mignini Luciano E. , Khalaf Yacoub
Published: January 2025

The number of retractions of randomized clinical trials (RCTs) following post‐publication allegations of misconduct is increasing. To address this issue, we aimed to establish an international multistakeholder consensus on post‐publication integrity concerns related to RCTs. After prospective registration (https://osf.io/njksm), we assembled a multidisciplinary stakeholder group comprising 48 participants from 18 countries across six continents, recruited using a curated list of journal editors and snowballing. An underpinning evidence synthesis collated 89 articles related to post‐publication integrity concerns. Integrity statements related to RCTs created were subjected to anonymized two‐round Delphi survey. A hybrid face‐to‐face‐online consensus development meeting was convened to consolidate the consensus. The response rates of the two Delphi survey rounds were 65% (31/48) and 67% (32/ 48), respectively. There were 101 and 41 statements in the first and second Delphi rounds, respectively. After the two Delphi rounds and the consensus development meeting, consensus was achieved on 104 statements consolidated to 84 after merging, editing, and removing duplicates. This set of statements included general aspects (n = 9), journal instructions (n = 14), editorial and peer review (n = 7), correspondence and complaints (n = 4), investigations for integrity concerns (n = 16), decisions and sanctions (n = 9), critical appraisal guidance (n = 1), systematic reviews of RCTs (n = 8), and research recommendations (n = 16). In conclusion, this international multistakeholder consensus statement aimed to underpin policies for preventing post‐publication integrity concerns in RCT publications and assist in improving investigations of misconduct allegations.
Pharmacokinetics, safety and efficacy of elvitegravir/cobicistat/emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide in children with HIV aged from 2 years and weighing at least 14 kg
Authors: Natukunda Eva , Gaur Aditya H. , Kosalaraksa Pope , Hellström Elizabeth , Strehlau Renate , Liberty Afaaf , Cox Stephanie , Leisegang Rory , Palaparthy Ramesh , Crowe Susanne , Vieira Vinicius , Kersey Kathryn , Rakhmanina Natella
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Elvitegravir/cobicistat/emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide (E/C/F/TAF) was efficacious and well tolerated in children/adolescents with HIV (aged ≥6 years, weighing ≥25 kg) in a Phase 2/3 study. Here, we report data from children aged ≥2 years and weighing ≥14–<25 kg.

Methods

This is an analysis of data from the youngest cohort in an open‐label, multicentre, multi‐cohort, single‐group, international study of children/adolescents with HIV. Participants in this cohort were children aged ≥2 years, weighing ≥14–<25 kg at screening and able to swallow tablets, on stable antiretroviral therapy with virologic suppression (HIV‐1 RNA <50 copies/ml for ≥6 consecutive months) and a CD4 count ≥400 cells/µl. Eligible participants received low‐dose E/C/F/TAF (90/90/120/6 mg) once daily through Week 48. The study included pharmacokinetic evaluation of the low‐dose E/C/F/TAF tablet at Week 2. Safety, efficacy, palatability and acceptability were also evaluated.

Results

Between 16 January and 25 November 2019, 27 participants were enrolled with a median (quartile [Q]1, Q3) age of 6 (4, 8) years, body weight of 19.3 (17.0, 20.5) kg, CD4 count of 1061 (895, 1315) cells/µl and CD4 cell percentage of 37.4 (30.6, 40.3). Most (92.6%) participants acquired HIV through vertical transmission. On 6 October 2020 (data‐cut), median (Q1, Q3) exposure to E/C/F/TAF was 48.3 (48.0, 60.1) weeks. Pharmacokinetic parameters were within the safe and efficacious range of previous data in adult and paediatric populations. Drug‐related treatment‐emergent adverse events occurred in 4/27 (15%) participants. There were no Grade 3/4 adverse events, or adverse events leading to E/C/F/TAF discontinuation. One participant experienced a serious treatment‐emergent adverse event (Grade 2 pneumonia not considered E/C/F/TAF related). Virologic suppression (US FDA Snapshot algorithm) was maintained by 26/27 (96%) participants at Weeks 24 and 48. At Week 48, most children reported positive palatability (84.6%) and acceptability (96.2%).

Conclusions

These data support the use of single‐tablet E/C/F/TAF (90/90/120/6 mg) regimen for the treatment of HIV in children aged ≥2 years and weighing ≥14–<25 kg.

Clinical Trial Number

NCT01854775
Is Soil Fertility the Cause or the Effect of Land Invasion by Prosopis?
Authors: Becker Mathias , Behn Kai , Heller Gereon , Kamiri Hellen W.
Published: January 2025

Background

For 20 years, Prosopis juliflora is aggressively spreading throughout the “Njemps Flats” in Kenya, where it changes vegetation cover and affects pastoral livelihoods. Its invasion dynamics is related to shallow groundwater tables (Prosopis being a phreatophyte), and it reportedly preferentially colonizes sites with favourable soil fertility attributes.

Aim

We contest this latter hypothesis, surmising that the N2‐fixing ability, the nutrient pumping by the deep root system, and year‐round leaf litter fall will improve soil fertility attributes under Prosopis, irrespective of the initial soil status.

Methods

We assessed stand densities (number of individuals and their percentage cover) and selected soil attributes at 75 sites in the Njemps Flats. The stand densities of Prosopis were visualized by ground‐truthed remote‐sensed data, and subsequently related to soil fertility attributes. We further determined the isotope signatures (δ15N and δ13C) of the prevailing (past) C4‐dominated pasture and the (current) C3‐Prosopis vegetation, as well as at three depths of the topsoil.

Results

The findings confirm favourable fertility attributes (low EC and high N, C, P, and K contents) being associated with dense Prosopis stands. However, the isotope analysis of the topsoil indicates typical signatures of C4 vegetation in non‐invaded pastureland and typical signatures of N2‐fixing C3‐plants in the top 5 cm (but not at deeper layers) of soils in Prosopis stands. Prosopis contributes about 16% of N derived from fixation, and significantly increases C, N, P, and Ca contents of the topsoil.

Conclusions

We conclude that high soil fertility is the result rather than the driver of Prosopis invasion.
Structural Modulation in Viologen‐Based Ionic Porous Organic Polymers for Catalytic Non‐Redox CO2 Fixation
Authors: Lodh Tapolabdha , Shreeraj G. , Patra Abhijit
Published: January 2025

The rational design of metal‐free, porous, and heterogeneous catalysts with large specific surface areas for efficient CO2 capture and utilization has remained a significant challenge. In this study, two structurally distinct viologen‐based novel ionic porous organic polymers (iPOPs) featuring a triazine core are developed, employing different polymerization methods to modulate their porosity and catalytic properties. The alkyne‐linked SC‐iPOP, synthesized through Sonogashira polycondensation, exhibits high porosity (specific BET surface area: 616 ± 9 m2 g−1) over BHC‐iPOP with secondary amine linkages fabricated by Buchwald‐Hartwig polymerization. SC‐iPOP demonstrates superior catalytic efficiency in the metal‐free cycloaddition of CO2 with epoxides to form cyclic organic carbonates under atmospheric pressure and solvent‐free conditions, with excellent recyclability. This enhanced catalytic performance, compared to BHC‐iPOP, is attributed to the high porosity of SC‐iPOP and the presence of abundant CO2‐philic ionic active sites. The current study emphasizes the role of structural modifications in designing efficient porous catalysts for metal‐free CO2 fixation.
The Impact of Technological Diversification on Innovation Performance: The Moderating Effects From an Agency Perspective
Authors: Zhan Xinrui , Liu Yunqing , Zhao Xingxin
Published: January 2025

In the rapidly advancing digital era, technological diversification (TD) emerges as a pivotal strategy to enhance firms' innovation performance. This study explores the nonlinear dynamics of TD and innovation performance, positing an inverted U‐shaped relationship and examining the moderating effects of governance mechanisms—management shareholding, board size, board meeting frequency, and analyst coverage—from the perspectives of incentive mechanism design, internal control, and external regulation. Using a comprehensive panel dataset of 11,036 firm‐year observations from 1438 Chinese listed manufacturers (2012–2020), we employ Tobit regression to validate our hypotheses. Our findings confirm the inverted U‐shaped relationship between TD and innovation performance, which is significantly moderated by governance mechanisms that mitigate agency costs. The results withstand a battery of robustness checks and address endogeneity concerns. By integrating agency theory into the analysis of TD, this study provides a novel perspective and actionable strategies for firms to optimize TD within sustainable boundaries, ultimately achieving long‐term innovation growth.
On Uniform Null Controllability of Transport–Diffusion Equations With Vanishing Viscosity Limit
Authors: Et‐Tahri Fouad , Asier Bárcena‐Petisco Jon , Boutaayamou Idriss , Maniar Lahcen
Published: January 2025

This paper aims to address an interesting open problem, posed in the paper “Singular Optimal Control for a Transport‐Diffusion Equation” of Sergio Guerrero and Gilles Lebeau in 2007. The problem involves studying the null controllability cost of a transport–diffusion equation with Neumann conditions, where the diffusivity coefficient is denoted by and the velocity by . Our objective is twofold. First, we investigate the scenario where each velocity trajectory originating from enters the control region in a shorter time at a fixed entry time. By employing Agmon and dissipation inequalities, and Carleman estimate in the case is the gradient of a time‐dependent scalar field, we establish that the control cost remains bounded for sufficiently small and large control time. Secondly, we explore the case where at least one trajectory fails to enter the control region and remains in . In this scenario, we prove that the control cost explodes exponentially when the diffusivity approaches zero and the control time is sufficiently small for general velocity.
Characterization of an MR‐compatible motion platform for quality assurance of motion‐compensated treatments on the 1.5 T MR‐linac
Authors: Oolbekkink Stijn , Borman Pim T. S. , Wolthaus Jochem W. H. , van Asselen Bram , van Lier Astrid L. H. M. W. , Dunn Stephanie , Koenig Grant R. , Hartman Nick , Kheirkhah Niusha , Raaymakers Bas W. , Fast Martin F.
Published: January 2025

Background

Novel motion‐compensated treatment techniques on the MR‐linac can address adverse intra‐fraction motion effects. These techniques involve beam gating or intra‐fraction adaptations of the treatment plan based on real‐time magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) performed during treatment. For quality assurance (QA) of these workflows, a multi‐purpose motion platform is desirable. This platform should accommodate various phantoms, enabling multiple QA workflows.

Purpose

This study aims to evaluate the new IBA QUASAR Motion MR Platform for use in the 1.5 T MR‐linac.

Methods

The motion platform was assessed for several magnetic resonance (MR) characteristics, including spurious noise generation and B0&B1 homogeneity. In addition, the motion platform's motion accuracy and beam attenuation were assessed. An application was shown with a ScandiDos Delta4 Phantom+ MR demonstrating patient‐specific plan QA of gated treatments using time‐resolved dosimetry that includes motion based on a patient's respiratory motion trace.

Results

All MR characterization measurements were within the set tolerances for MRI QA. The motion platform motion accuracy showed excellent agreement with the reference, with a standard deviation of the amplitude of 0.01  mm (20 kg load) for the motor's self‐estimated positions and 0.22 mm (no load) for the images acquired with the electronic portal imager. Beam attenuation was found to be 11.8%. The combination of the motion platform and Delta4 demonstrated motion‐included dosimetry at high temporal and spatial resolutions. Motion influenced the measured dose in non‐gated treatments by up to −20.1%, while gated deliveries showed differences of up to −1.7% for selected diodes.

Conclusion

The motion platform was found to be usable in a 1.5 T magnetic field, and for all MR characterization experiments, no influence from the motion platform was observed. This motion platform enables to perform motion‐included QA, with a measurement device of choice.
Adjuvant Proton Radiation Following Transoral Robotic Surgery for HPV‐Positive Oropharyngeal Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Tong Jane Y. , Bzhilyanskaya Vera , Ferris Matthew J. , Molitoris Jason K. , Hatten Kyle M.
Published: January 2025

Objective

Advances in the treatment of human papillomavirus (HPV)‐associated oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC) include transoral robotic surgery (TORS) and proton beam therapy (PBT). This study aims to improve understanding of the treatment toxicities associated with adjuvant PBT following TORS for OPSCC.

Study Design

A retrospective review.

Setting

An academic tertiary care center in Baltimore, Maryland.

Methods

Patients undergoing TORS followed by adjuvant PBT from 2017 to 2023 were reviewed.

Results

Forty‐seven patients with HPV‐associated OPSCC underwent TORS followed by adjuvant PBT. Forty‐one (87.2%) patients were male. The median age at first radiation fraction was 61.7 years. Forty‐one (87.2%) identified as white and 6 (12.8%) as African American. Most patients had T1 (23 [48.9%]) or T2 (22 [46.8%]), N1 (41 [87.2%]) disease. The majority (98.3%) of acute toxicities were grade 1 or 2, with only 1 (2.1%) patient developing grade 3 toxicities. Three (6.4%) patients required a feeding tube for nutrition during adjuvant proton radiation treatment. The 3 patients who required feeding tubes during radiation also required postoperative nasogastric tubes for a median of 16 days, compared with 3 days for all other patients (Mann–Whitney U, P = .02). The most common chronic toxicities included xerostomia, dysphagia, dysgeusia, and lymphedema, which decreased over time.

Conclusion

HPV‐associated OPSCC treated with TORS followed by adjuvant PBT demonstrated a favorable toxicity profile with mostly grade 1 or 2 acute toxicities. Feeding tube requirement during adjuvant PBT was low at 6.4%. Many chronic toxicities appeared to decrease in frequency with time from radiation, although further study is required.
Assessing the benefits of digital game‐based learning with Minecraft in children, adolescents and young adults: A broad systematic review
Authors: Slattery Eadaoin J. , Lehane Paula , Butler Deirdre , O'Leary Michael , Marshall Kevin
Published: January 2025

Minecraft is a popular digital game‐based learning (DGBL) tool used in learning environments around the world. With increasing emphasis on evidence‐informed practice and policymaking in educational systems, this paper systematically reviews the evidence base behind the use of Minecraft in improving academic, cognitive, motivational‐affective and social outcomes. We searched seven databases and other secondary sources up until February 2024. Pre‐post intervention studies that evaluated the use of Minecraft (randomised, non‐randomised and single‐group studies) in children, adolescents and young adults were included. Twenty‐nine studies satisfied our inclusion criteria. Studies primarily investigated Minecraft as a tool to improve cognitive (n = 7) and academic (n = 16) outcomes. Studies reported positive effects on spatial thinking (n = 2), creativity (n = 3), critical thinking (n = 1), mathematics (n = 5), science (n = 4) and language (n = 2). However, all studies included in this review had a medium or high risk of bias. Therefore, while Minecraft demonstrates good potential in improving these outcomes, effects need to be replicated in more rigorous studies. Suggestions for future research are discussed. This review provides timely evidence for educators, school leaders and policymakers regarding the use of DGBL with Minecraft.
A bibliometric and systematic review of literature on teacher educators during the times of neoliberal internationalisation
Authors: Nguyen Ngan Thi Lan
Published: January 2025

The neoliberal internationalisation of teacher education affects the professional lives of teacher educators in various ways. However, a comprehensive understanding of research on teacher educators during the times of neoliberal internationalisation has not been synthesised. This study reviews the literature on teacher educators within the context of neoliberal internationalisation through a combination of bibliometric and systematic approaches. Bibliometric data analysis with Biblioshiny in R and VOSviewer was employed to examine the literature's intellectual structure and research foci of 84 documents downloaded from the Scopus database. Additionally, the same documents were analysed thematically to enrich data from the bibliometric study. Firstly, findings revealed an imbalance in knowledge production and citation within the intellectual structure of literature. Secondly, seven themes from the word co‐occurrence network presented seven professional duties of teacher educators during neoliberal internationalisation including (1) teaching for social justice, (2) fostering global consciousness of student teachers and sustainability in internationalisation, (3) engaging in professional learning, (4) providing global competence education for student teachers, (5) addressing the technification of teacher education accelerated by the COVID‐19 pandemic, (6) integrating research into teaching, and (7) promoting (multi)cultural awareness in language teacher education. The complexity of teacher educators' professional lives calls for support and collaboration from stakeholders to enhance their resilience under the increasing influence of neoliberal internationalisation.
Untwisting Strategy of MOF Nanosheets in Ultrathin Film Membrane for High Molecular Separation Performance
Authors: Xu Li‐Hao , Zhang Qiao , Li Shen‐Hui , Chen Fu‐Xue , Zhao Zhi‐Ping
Published: January 2025

Oriented 2D metal‐organic framework (MOF) membranes hold considerable promise for industrial separation processes. Nevertheless, the lattice misalignment caused by the twisted stacking of 2D nanosheets reduces the in‐plane pore size and exerts a significant impact on the membrane separation performance. Precisely regulating the stacking pattern of oriented 2D MOF membranes remains a significant challenge. Here, a scalable scrape‐coating technique supplemented by a vapor untwisting strategy is proposed to directly construct non‐twisted and ultrathin Zr‐BTB membranes (Zr‐BTB‐M) on polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) substrates. The Zr‐BTB nanosheets are induced to undergo lattice reorganization during the coating process, resulting in highly overlapped lattices and the largest in‐plane pore channels. The exceptional butyl acetate selective adsorption capacity of non‐twisted Zr‐BTB, combined with its provision of highly ordered vertical penetrating pathways, significantly enhances molecular transport. After facile polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) coating, the pervaporation separation index of the PDMS/Zr‐BTB‐M/PVDF membrane is found to be 9.74 times higher than that of conventional PDMS/PVDF membranes, paving the way for innovative, high‐efficiency, energy‐saving membrane separation technologies.
MXene‐Based Flexible Memory and Neuromorphic Devices
Authors: Li Yan , Ding Guanglong , Zhai Yongbiao , Lv Ziyu , Yan Yan , Xue Shuangmei , Zhou Kui , Zhang Meng , Zhang Yutong , Sun Qi‐Jun , Liu Yi , Roy Vellaisamy A. L. , Zhou Ye , Han Su‐Ting
Published: January 2025

As the age of the Internet of Things (IoTs) unfolds, along with the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI), traditional von Neumann‐based computing systems encounter significant challenges in handling vast amounts of data storage and processing. Bioinspired neuromorphic computing strategies offer a promising solution, characterized by features of in‐memory computing, massively parallel processing, and event‐driven operations. Compared to traditional rigid silicon‐based devices, flexible neuromorphic devices are lightweight, thin, and highly stretchable, garnering considerable attention. Among the materials utilized in these devices, transition metal carbides/nitrides (MXenes) are particularly noteworthy materials with their excellent flexibility, exceptional conductivity, and hydrophilicity, which confer remarkable properties upon these devices. Herein, a comprehensive discussion is provided on the applications of MXenes in flexible memory and neuromorphic devices. This review covers the basic principles and device structures of memory and neuromorphic devices, common parameters and emerging materials of flexible devices, as well as the common synthesis, functionalization methods, and distinct properties of MXenes. The remaining challenges and future opportunities of MXenes in relevant devices are also presented. This review can serve as a valuable reference and lay a cornerstone for the practical and feasible implementation of MXenes in flexible memory and neuromorphic technologies.
MOF Nanosheet Enable Accelerated Redox Kinetics and Ultralow Overpotential for Light‐Assisted Li‐CO2 Battery
Authors: Lin Xiaojing , Wu Ziyuan , Xu Cong , Ran Yangyang , Zhang Jindan , Deng Weihua , Xiang Shengchang , Cheng Zhibin , Zhang Zhangjing
Published: January 2025

Lithium‐carbon dioxide (Li‐CO₂) batteries have attracted much attention due to their high energy density, low cost, and carbon sequestration. However, the sluggish conversion kinetics between CO₂ and the discharge product lithium carbonate (Li₂CO₃) have hindered their practical applications. Herein, a flower‐like photosensitive metal–organic framework (FJU‐115‐NS) has been employed as a cathodic electrocatalyst for Li‐CO₂ batteries. The FJU‐115‐NS with well‐ordered micropores and abundant exposed catalytic sites can effectively facilitate lithium ion transport and catalyze the Li₂CO₃ formation/decomposition, leading to improved battery performance. At a current density of 200 mA g⁻¹, the FJU‐115‐NS battery exhibits a substantial discharge capacity of 31579.34 mA h g⁻¹, a low overpotential of 1.31 V, and stable operation over 3200 h. Importantly, under light irradiation, the charging voltage significantly dropped from 4.45 V (without light) to 3.43 V at a high current density of 2 A g⁻¹. Additionally, the cell demonstrated an exceptionally low overpotential of just 0.45 V at a current density of 200 mA g⁻¹, highlighting its enhanced efficiency under light‐assisted conditions. This work provides valuable guidance for developing light‐assisted MOF catalysts to upgrade the longevity and energy efficiency of Li‐CO₂ batteries.
Precursor‐Induced Growth of Highly‐Oriented Nanowire Arrays
Authors: Wu Zhen , Liu Guoliang , Liang Jie , Wei Tianqi , Xu Ning
Published: January 2025

The unique optical, electrical, and thermal properties of 1D nanowires have sparked significant interest in growing high‐quality 1D materials. Nanowire arrays and aligned growth offer scalability and maintain anisotropic properties, making them promising for research and applications. However, mass‐producing high‐quality nanowire arrays remains a challenge. A strategy is proposed for growing nanowire arrays based on homogeneous precursor as the substrate. Both calculations and experiments demonstrate that using a self‐assembly micro‐platform in advance facilitates epitaxial growth via chemical vapor deposition (CVD) to achieve highly oriented nanowire arrays. This is attributed to changes in crystallographic disregistry and adhesion energy. For instance, SnTe nanowire arrays are successfully grown using this method, with significantly lower thermal conductivity (≈5.5 W m−1 K−1 at 300 K) compared to the bulk material (≈9.1 W m−1 K−1 at 300 K), making them ideal for thermoelectric applications. The research lays the foundation for the tunable growth of IV–VI nanowire arrays and opens up possibilities for innovative thermoelectric nano–micro devices.
Screening for Endocrine Bioactivity Potential of Tobacco Product Chemicals Including Flavor Chemicals
Authors: Joseph‐Thekkudan Theresa , Kang Jueichuan Connie , Kaltcheva Maria M. , Venugopal P. Dilip
Published: January 2025

Adolescence and pregnancy involve elevated levels of hormones (e.g., estrogen, androgen) during which exposure to endocrine disruptors could have long‐term developmental and reproductive toxicity (DART) effects. Therefore, the use prevalence and abuse liability of electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS) among adolescents and youth, and during pregnancy, raises concerns about possible exposure to endocrine disruptors. In addition, endocrine disruptors have adverse effects on wildlife and environmental health. While many studies focus on carcinogenicity and mutagenicity of tobacco products, research efforts screening chemicals in tobacco products for endocrine disruption potential are few. In this study, we curated 5179 chemicals in tobacco and tobacco smoke, 2803 flavor chemicals, and 156 e‐liquid chemicals from literature or openly available databases. We screened the chemicals for endocrine bioactivity using new approach methodologies (NAMs) developed through US Environmental Protection Agency's Endocrine Disruptor Screening Program. The specific NAMs, estrogenic and androgenic pathway models, identified 137 tobacco chemicals, 34 flavor chemicals, and three e‐liquid chemicals (Veratraldehyde, (2E)‐3‐Phenylprop‐2‐enal, and 2′‐Acetonaphthone) as “active,” indicating potential endocrine bioactivity. Further, among the tobacco chemicals with endocrine bioactivity potential, 48 were environmentally persistent, 29 bioaccumulative, and 19 both persistent and bioaccumulative. Our findings document many chemicals in tobacco products with potential endocrine bioactivity, which raises concerns for both human and environmental health. These results also underscore the importance of DART potential of tobacco products and flavors. Overall, our study characterizes the endocrine bioactivity potential of tobacco and flavor chemicals and provides a list of chemicals to consider in future ecological and health risk assessments.
Cultivating the Genius Within: A Conceptual Framework for Black Feminist Text Selection
Authors: Griffin Autumn A. , Ferguson Latrice , Crawford Angela , Thomas Ebony Elizabeth
Published: January 2025

Teachers' choices as they select texts have long been explored and considered by researchers. However, within such scholarship, there is limited research about how teachers, particularly Black women teachers, navigate the gauntlet of whitewashed standards, hegemonic curriculs, and dehumanizing school spaces to select texts that affirm students and support their learning. This paper asks what choices one experienced Black woman teacher makes in selecting texts in response to her students' identities and her own learning experiences. Drawing on Black Feminist scholarship, this article focuses on how memory, self‐reflection, personal experiences, and a desire for equity are all a part of selecting culturally relevant texts. Moreover, we illustrate that Black women teachers see text selection as a part of larger care practices and community building within their classrooms.
Better Together: Integrating Content‐Area Curriculum in the Primary Literacy Classroom
Authors: Ryan Allison , Lipp Jamie R.
Published: January 2025

Integrating content‐area and literacy instruction in primary‐grade classrooms creates authentic and engaging opportunities for students to build background knowledge and literacy skills. Furthermore, when students engage in meaningful dialogue about content‐area topics they can discuss complex ideas and use content‐specific vocabulary. These authentic conversations, combined with hands‐on experiences and children's literature, build a strong foundation for students to become successful readers and writers. Existing and current literature highlights knowledge building and its impacts on literacy achievement, often supported through integrated instruction. The subsequent experiences in a first‐grade classroom confirm this impact, yielding promising results. However, there continues to be a need for more research and professional development opportunities to ensure equitable, accessible, and effective implementation for all learners.
Mandatory Initial Mediation Session: Evaluating the Effects of Compulsion in Dispute Resolution—The Case of North Macedonia
Authors: Kamilovska Tatjana Zoroska , Rakočević Milka
Published: January 2025

Since the adoption of the first Law on Mediation in 2006 until today, various regulatory measures have been undertaken for the promotion and stimulation of mediation in North Macedonia. The mediation model has undergone multiple changes given that the practical experience has consistently indicated that the results of its application are minor. Amendments to the Civil Procedure Act from 2015 introduced a mandatory initial mediation session in commercial disputes up to a certain value as a promising solution in the context of its further promotion. The reasons for this legislative solution were quite poorly explained. The absence of specific indicators for the need of a mandatory initial mediation session in commercial disputes mobilized resistance among many business entities but also among the members of the legal profession. A small number of comparative experiences from EU countries, as well as the initial organizational problems with its implementation in our country, have raised doubts about the perspective of this solution. It seems that several years after the introduction of a certain extent of compulsion in the system of dispute resolution regarding particular commercial disputes is quite a solid time to assess the success of this solution so far, but also to estimate whether such a solution has a long-term potential of reviving mediation in our country and creating a culture of using mediation on a purely voluntary basis.
Autograft augmentation with compressed long head of the biceps tendon for large rotator cuff tears
Authors: Estfeller Andrea , Lanz Ulrich
Published: January 2025

Autologous augmentation using a compressed stump of the long head of the biceps tendon (LHBT) offers a promising approach for treating large rotator cuff tears (LRCT). This case report highlights the successful application of this technique. A 77-year-old active female presented with right shoulder pain and restricted mobility. Initial MRI revealed multiple injuries, including a complete supraspinatus tear and a partial infraspinatus rupture. Following arthroscopic rotator cuff repair, subacromial decompression, and suprapectoral tenodesis of the LHBT, the remaining stump was used as an augmentation patch for the supraspinatus tendon. Six months postoperatively, the patient demonstrated full, pain-free mobility and successful patch integration. This case underscores the potential of the LHBT as an autologous graft to enhance healing and stability in LRCT. As a promising technique, LHBT augmentation could provide an effective solution for managing large rotator cuff tears, particularly in patients at high risk of retear.
Unusual Association of Partial Fanconi Syndrome and Tumor-Induced Osteomalacia Revealed by Multiple Vertebral Fractures
Authors: Debrach Anne-Cécile , Coen Matteo , De Seigneux Sophie , Saiji Essia , Boudabbous Sana , Willi Jean-Pierre , Serratrice Jacques , Genevay Stéphane , Biver Emmanuel
Published: January 2025

Tumor-induced osteomalacia (TIO) is a rare acquired paraneoplastic syndrome caused by a mesenchymal tumor secreting a phosphaturic hormone called FGF23. Patients present with bone pain, fragility fractures and muscle weakness. Biochemical results show hypophosphatemia, raised serum alkaline phosphatase and reduced calcitriol. We report the case of a 44-year-old man who presented to the Emergency Departement with acute low back pain revealing extensive subchondral fractures between D2 and L5. Investigations showed partial Fanconi syndrome; nevertheless, he had profound hypophosphatemia, low 1,25-OH vitamin D and raised FGF23 levels suggesting a diagnosis of tumor-induced osteomalacia. A subcutaneous lesion was identified in the left leg on a PET-CT initially performed to rule out malignancy in the context of Fanconi syndrome. Tumorectomy enabled complete resolution of the electrolyte disturbances within days of surgery. This case shows that TIO may present as partial Fanconi syndrome, highlighting the importance of testing other electrolytes in cases of hypophosphatemia and the need to look for TIO in cases of partial Fanconi with severe hypophosphatemia.
Imaging biomarkers of cortical neurodegeneration underlying cognitive impairment in Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Silva-Rodríguez Jesús , Labrador-Espinosa Miguel Ángel , Castro-Labrador Sandra , Muñoz-Delgado Laura , Franco-Rosado Pablo , Castellano-Guerrero Ana María , Macías-García Daniel , Jesús Silvia , Adarmes-Gómez Astrid D. , Carrillo Fátima , Martín-Rodríguez Juan Francisco , García-Solís David , Roldán-Lora Florinda , Mir Pablo , Grothe Michel J.
Published: January 2025

Purpose

Imaging biomarkers bear great promise for improving the diagnosis and prognosis of cognitive impairment in Parkinson’s disease (PD). We compared the ability of three commonly used neuroimaging modalities to detect cortical changes in PD patients with mild cognitive impairment (PD-MCI) and dementia (PDD).

Methods

53 cognitively normal PD patients (PD-CN), 32 PD-MCI, and 35 PDD underwent concurrent structural MRI (sMRI), diffusion-weighted MRI (dMRI), and [18F]FDG PET. We extracted grey matter volumes (sMRI), mean diffusivity (MD, dMRI), and standardized uptake value ratios ([18F]FDG PET) for 52 cortical regions included in a neuroanatomical atlas. We assessed group differences using ANCOVA models and further applied a cross-validated machine learning approach to identify the modality-specific brain regions that are most indicative of dementia status and assessed their diagnostic accuracy for group separation using receiver operating characteristic analyses.

Results

In sMRI, atrophy of temporal and posterior-parietal areas allowed separating PDD from PD-CN (AUC = 0.77 ± 0.07), but diagnostic accuracy was poor for separating PD-MCI from PD-CN (0.57 ± 0.10). dMRI showed most pronounced diffusivity changes in the medial temporal lobe, which provided excellent diagnostic performance for PDD (AUC = 0.87 ± 0.06), and a more modest but still significant performance for PD-MCI (AUC = 0.71 ± 0.09). Finally, [18F]FDG PET revealed pronounced hypometabolism in posterior-occipital regions, which provided the highest diagnostic accuracies for both PDD (AUC = 0.89 ± 0.05) and PD-MCI (AUC = 0.78 ± 0.05). In statistical comparisons, both [18F]FDG PET (p < 0.001) and dMRI (p < 0.031) outperformed sMRI for detecting PDD and PD-MCI.

Conclusion

Among the tested modalities, [18F]FDG PET was most accurate for detecting cortical changes associated with cognitive impairment in PD, especially at early stages. Diffusion measurements may represent a promising MRI-based alternative.
Biomarker microRNA-371a-3p - expression in malignancies other than germ-cell tumours
Authors: Belge Gazanfer , Klemke Markus , Hansen Bendix , Dumlupinar Cansu , Igde Aylin , Arnold Dirk , Salwender Hans , Wülfing Christian , Soave Armin , Dieckmann Klaus-Peter
Published: January 2025

Purpose

microRNA-371a-3p (M371) is considered a highly sensitive and specific serum biomarker of testicular germ cell tumours (GCTs). However, little is known about the expression of M371 in nontesticular malignancies (NTMs), so far. As knowledge about the expression of the marker in other malignancies is a prerequisite for the clinical application of the test we aimed to explore the M371 expression in other cancers.

Methods

M371 serum levels were measured in 137 patients with NTM of 12 different neoplastic entities using the IVDR-certified M371-Test for quantitative real-time PCR. Median M371 serum levels and percentages of M371 level elevations were calculated for the entire NTM group and for entity-specific subgroups. The results were compared with GCT patients (n = 20) and with tumour-free male controls (n = 20) using descriptive statistical methods.

Results

Eight patients with NTMs had M371 serum level elevations, corresponding to a false-positive rate (FPR) of 5.84% (95% confidence intervals (CIs) 2.55–11.18%). Expression rates in GCTs and controls were 100% and zero, respectively. Thus, the specificity of the M371-Test for GCT is 94.90% (95% CI 90.21–97.77%) when all NTMs and tumour-free controls are considered. Remarkably, three out of 5 patients with multiple myeloma had elevated M371 levels.

Conclusion

The false-positive rate of the M371-Test in other malignancies than GCT is very low, and almost identical with that in healthy males, corresponding to a high specificity of 94.9% for detection of GCT. The surprising finding of M371 elevations in patients with multiple myeloma needs further investigation.
Production of clean-label starch using physically treated starch blending and its application as a xanthan gum substitute
Authors: Park Shinjae , Kim Yong-Ro
Published: January 2025

This study explores clean-label starch as a functional alternative to xanthan gum in food applications. The optimal blending ratio of ultrasound-treated rice and potato starch was found to be 25:75, resulting in a product with enhanced stability and viscosity similar to xanthan gum. A mathematical model was developed to adjust the viscosity of clean-label starch to match xanthan gum at various concentrations and shear rates, showing high predictive accuracy (R2 = 0.988). The clean-label starch was then tested in food applications, including as a thickener in tomato ketchup. In ketchup, samples with added clean-label starch exhibited similar serum separation and viscosity reduction as those with xanthan gum. Overall, clean-label starch shows strong potential as a functional, clean-label alternative to xanthan gum, offering both economic and nutritional benefits in food products.
In vitro evaluation of dye penetration and dentin microhardness after laser irradiation using photon-induced photoacoustic streaming and shock wave enhanced emission photoacoustic streaming tips compared to ultrasonic activation
Authors: Mobarak Ahmed Moustafa , Ibrahim Yomna Mohamed , Abdelhakim Ahmed Adel , Arnabat-Dominguez Josep , El Backly Rania Mahmoud
Published: January 2025

The purpose of this study was to compare the penetration of methylene blue (MB) dye after laser irradiation using PIPS (photon-induced photoacoustic streaming) and SWEEPS (shockwave enhanced emission photoacoustic streaming) methods compared to Passive ultrasonic irrigation (PUI) and to study their effect on dentin microhardness. A total of 44 single-rooted human teeth which were extracted for orthodontic or periodontal reasons were used. The teeth were decapitated to standardize roots to 12 mm in length. Canals were prepared up to size #30.6% and divided randomly into four groups (n = 11/group) according to the method of NaOCl activation: Group I: Er: YAG laser activation with PIPS tip; Group II: Er: YAG laser activation with SWEEPS tip; Group III: passive ultrasonic irrigation (PUI) and Group IV: conventional needle irrigation (CI). MB dye was injected then teeth were sectioned horizontally into coronal, middle and apical sections. Penetration depth/area percentages were measured using stereomicroscopy. Coronal specimens were further subjected to Vickers microhardness testing. Data were statistically analyzed. SWEEPS and PIPS activation methods provided higher dye penetration depth and area percentages compared to PUI with no statistically significant differences between all test groups. However, all test groups showed statistically significant differences with the CI (control) group. SWEEPS activation provided higher microhardness values with statistically significant differences with the other groups. Laser irrigant activation using PIPS and SWEEPS is comparable to PUI concerning MB dye penetration. However, SWEEPS preserved dentin microhardness significantly which can be beneficial for the long-term prognosis of root canal treated teeth.
Interparental Relationship Discord and Adolescent Psychopathology in a United States Probability Sample
Authors: Stern Elisa F. , Rhee Soo Hyun , Whisman Mark A.
Published: January 2025

Exposure to interparental conflict and poor parental relationship adjustment (i.e., interparental relationship discord) has been associated with children’s internalizing and externalizing symptoms throughout childhood and later life. However, the degree to which interparental relationship discord is associated with clinical levels of psychopathology in adolescents remains unclear. The association between parents’ report of interparental relationship discord and mental disorders in adolescents was investigated in the National Comorbidity Survey–Adolescent Supplement, a United States probability sample of 13-17-year-old adolescents and their parents (N = 4,112 dyads). A hierarchical framework, consisting of 16 specific disorders, latent dimensions of internalizing and externalizing disorders, and a latent dimension of general psychopathology, was employed. Greater interparental relationship discord demonstrated small but significant associations with higher levels of general psychopathology and internalizing and externalizing psychopathology, as well as with several specific disorders. Overall, results are consistent with the perspective that interparental relationship discord may increase risk for clinical levels of psychopathology in adolescents.