bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Twelve-Month Outcomes of Combined Phacoemulsification with Ab Interno Canaloplasty Versus Single-Use Dual Blade Goniotomy in Glaucoma Patients
Authors: Prinz Julia , Plange Niklas , Schellhase Hannah , Walter Peter , Fuest Matthias , Koutsonas Antonis , Kuerten David
Published: February 2025

Background To compare the efficacy and safety of combined phacoemulsification with ab interno canaloplasty (Phaco-AbiC) versus single-use dual blade goniotomy (Phaco-DBG).

Material and Methods In this prospective consecutive case series, intraocular pressure (IOP), the number of IOP-lowering medications, the mean deviation (MD) of visual field testing, and surgery-related complications were evaluated in 25 eyes following Phaco-AbiC and 20 eyes following Phaco-DBG through 12 months of follow-up. Qualified or complete success was defined as postoperative IOP lower than 21, 18, and 16 mmHg with or without IOP-lowering medications.

Results At the 12-month follow-up, IOP was significantly reduced compared to baseline in the Phaco-AbiC (14.2 ± 2.7 versus 19.2 ± 4.7 mmHg, p < 0.001) and Phaco-DBG groups (16.7 ± 3.4 versus 19.9 ± 3.9 mmHg, p < 0.001). At the 12-month follow-up, IOP was significantly higher following Phaco-DBG than Phaco-AbiC (p = 0.011). Compared to baseline, the number of IOP-lowering medications was significantly reduced in the Phaco-AbiC (1.2 ± 1.4 versus 2.4 ± 1.0, p < 0.001) and Phaco-DBG groups (0.8 ± 0.9 versus 2.1 ± 0.9, p < 0.001) at the 12-month follow-up. For IOP lower than 16 mmHg, the complete and qualified success rate was significantly higher following Phaco-AbiC (36.0 and 76.2%, respectively) than Phaco-DBG (17.5 and 40.6%; p = 0.037; p = 0.007, respectively). No severe intra- or postoperative complications occurred.

Conclusion Both Phaco-AbiC and Phaco-DBG achieved a significant reduction in IOP and IOP-lowering medications at the 12-month follow-up. IOP was significantly lower 12 months following Phaco-AbiC than Phaco-DBG.
Schmerzen auch im Alter ernst nehmen – Altersdiskriminierung
Authors: Laekeman Marjan
Published: February 2025

Viele Senior*innen, die Schmerzen erleben, schieben die Schuld auf das hohe Alter. Durch Aussagen wie „Schmerz ist normal im Alter“ suchen diese Menschen erst viel zu spät therapeutische Hilfe. Aber auch bei den Therapierenden zeigt sich mitunter ein altersdiskriminierendes Verhalten mit nur unzureichenden Schmerzmanagementstrategien. Gegen Altersstereotypen eignet sich eine spezielle Schmerzedukation.
Outcomes after Implantation of KeraNatural, a Sterile Corneal Allograft Intrastromal Ring Segment (CAIRS), in Eyes with Keratoconus
Authors: Benz Evelyn-Elisa , Tappeiner Christoph , Goldblum David , Kyroudis Dimitrios
Published: February 2025

Purpose To assess and describe the outcomes of corneal allograft intrastromal ring segment (CAIRS) implantation in eyes with keratoconus.

Methods In this retrospective analysis, we examined the early postoperative results of CAIRS (KeraNatural) implantation after cutting a corneal tunnel with a femtosecond laser device (Ziemer Z6) in patients with keratoconus. Outcome measures included best-corrected distance visual acuity (BCDVA), spherical equivalent (SE), maximal keratometry (Kmax), refractive astigmatism (RA), higher-order aberrations (HOAs), and root mean square total aberrations (total RMS), evaluated both before and a variable time after surgery, ranging from at least 30 days to 338 days, with a mean follow-up time of 141.1 ± 79.9 days postoperatively.

Results A total of 17 eyes with keratoconus of 16 patients (mean age of 36.2 ± 17.3 years) were treated. In one eye, previous corneal UVA cross-linking (CXL) was reported in the medical history, and 9 eyes underwent adjunctive CXL at least 1 month postoperatively due to previously documented progressive disease. BCDVA (mean ± SD) improved from preoperative values of 0.43 ± 0.16 logMAR to 0.19 ± 0.14 logMAR postoperatively (p < 0.001). Furthermore, the results show a significant decrease in spherical and astigmatic refraction, with the mean SE decreasing from − 2.9 ± 4.7 D to − 0.7 ± 3.6 D (p = 0.004). Mean RA slightly changed from − 3.42 ± 2.18 D to − 2.51 ± 2.31 D (p = 0.13). Additionally, mean Kmax significantly decreased from 57.3 ± 5.5 D to 51.4 ± 5.7 D (p < 0.001). In the comparison of pre- to postoperative HOA and total RMS values at 4, 5, and 6 mm, a slight tendency for improvement was found; however, these changes were not statistically
significant (p > 0.05, each).

Conclusion CAIRS implantation reduced corneal ectasia and improved BCDVA in patients with keratoconus. This highlights its potential as an effective visual rehabilitation strategy, particularly for patients who are intolerant to wearing contact lenses.
Prävention von Kinderübergewicht in Kommunen – partizipative Entwicklung von kommunalen Strategien zur Steigerung der Handlungsbereitschaft
Authors: Schröder Maike , Hassel Holger , Babitsch Birgit
Published: February 2025

Hintergrund:
Handlungsbereitschaft (Community Readiness, CR) beschreibt, in welchem Ausmaß eine Kommune bereit ist, ein Gesundheitsproblem aktiv anzugehen. Sie ist eine zentrale Voraussetzung für erfolgreiche und nachhaltige Präventionsmaßnahmen. Die CR zur Prävention von Kinderübergewicht ist in deutschen Kommunen niedrig, was die Umsetzung effektiver Maßnahmen erschwert.
Methoden:
Ziel dieser Studie war es, Strategien zur Steigerung der CR für die Prävention von Kinderübergewicht in Kommunen zu entwickeln. In bayerischen Kommunen wurden nach einer initialen CR-Ermittlung Workshops (N=5) mit kommunalen Akteur/-innen durchgeführt. Dabei wurden deren spezifische Ergebnisse analysiert und darauf aufbauend Strategien partizipativ erarbeitet.
Ergebnisse:
Die kommunalen Strategien umfassen drei Schwerpunkte: (1) Die Optimierung von Ressourcen für Präventionsbemühungen, (2) die Erhöhung des Wissens über Kinderübergewicht und die Prävention und (3) die Förderung der Prioritätensetzung im Bereich Kinderübergewicht.
Schlussfolgerung:
Die entwickelten Strategien bieten praxisorientierte Ansätze zur Förderung der CR und stellen eine Grundlage für die Weiterentwicklung und Implementierung effektiver Präventionsmaßnahmen dar. Eine Bewertung der Wirksamkeit kann durch Follow-up-Messungen nach Umsetzung der Strategien erfolgen.

Background:
Community readiness (CR) describes the degree to which a municipality is prepared to actively address a health problem. It is a central condition for successful and sustainable prevention efforts. The CR for childhood obesity prevention is low in German municipalities, which makes it difficult to implement effective measures.
Methods:
The aim of this study was to develop strategies to increase CR for the prevention of childhood obesity in municipalities. In Bavarian municipalities, workshops (N=5) were conducted with municipal stakeholders after an initial CR assessment. Their specific results were analysed and based on this, strategies were developed in a participatory manner.
Results:
The municipal strategies focus on three areas: (1) optimising resources for prevention efforts, (2) supporting knowledge about childhood obesity and prevention and (3) strengthening the prioritisation of childhood obesity.
Conclusion:
The strategies offer practical approaches to promote CR and provide a basis for the further development and implementation of effective prevention efforts. An evaluation of effectiveness can be made through follow-up measurements after implementation of the strategies.
Thermoelectric properties of penta-InP5: A first-principles and machine learning study
Authors: Thanh Tien Nguyen , Bich Thao Pham Thi , Khanh Nguyen Duy , Nhat Thanh Le , Khuong Dien Vo
Published: February 2025

Smart wearable devices that harvest energy from ambient sources, such as body heat, are gaining significant attention due to their potential in diverse applications. Thermoelectric (TE) materials, which convert thermal energy to electrical power, are critical for these devices, yet achieving both high TE performance and mechanical flexibility remains a significant challenge. Here, we investigate the TE properties of the penta-InP5 monolayer, a novel two-dimensional material, using first-principles calculations integrated with machine learning potentials. We show that penta-InP5 achieves a remarkable figure of merit, with values of 0.51 and 0.42 for hole and electron doping, respectively, at room temperature. Additionally, the material demonstrates remarkable mechanical properties, with an in-plane stiffness of 52 N/m and a fracture strain of 23% for the uniaxial strain. These findings suggest that penta-InP5 is a promising candidate for flexible, high-performance TE applications, advancing the potential of wearable energy-harvesting devices.
Making qubits from magnetic molecules
Authors: Hill Stephen
Published: February 2025

Bottom-up synthesis of such molecules provides physicists with a rich playground to study newly discovered quantum effects and a means to store information at the scale of individual atoms.
Learning to see gravitational lenses
Authors: Fernandez-Mulligan Sebastian
Published: February 2025

In the 1970s and 1980s, iconoclastic astronomers used diagrams, computer models, and their own intuition to convince the community that they had observed celestial objects that noticeably bend background light.
TANGO2 is an acyl-CoA binding protein
Authors: Lujan Agustin Leonardo , Foresti Ombretta , Wojnacki Jose , Bigliani Gonzalo , Brouwers Nathalie , Pena Maria Jesus , Androulaki Stefania , Hashidate-Yoshida Tomomi , Kalyukina Maria , Novoselov Sergey S. , Shindou Hideo , Malhotra Vivek
Published: February 2025

Loss of TANGO2 in humans precipitates metabolic crises during periods of heightened energy demand, such as fasting, infections, or high fever. TANGO2 has been implicated in various functions, including lipid metabolism and heme transport, and its cellular localization remains uncertain. In our study, we demonstrate that TANGO2 localizes to the mitochondrial lumen via a structural region containing LIL residues. Mutations in these LIL residues cause TANGO2 to relocate to the periphery of lipid droplets. We further show that purified TANGO2 binds acyl-coenzyme A, and mutations in the highly conserved NRDE sequence of TANGO2 inhibit this binding. Collectively, our findings suggest that TANGO2 serves as an acyl-coenzyme A binding protein. These insights may provide new avenues for addressing the severe cardiomyopathies and rhabdomyolysis associated with defective TANGO2 in humans.
Nondegenerate and degenerate multi-solitons for the reverse-time nonlocal nonlinear Schrödinger model
Authors: Liu Jin-Hao , Geng Kai-Li , Dai Chao-Qing
Published: February 2025

We employ the Hirota bilinear method to systematically derive nondegenerate bright one- and two-soliton solutions, along with degenerate bright-dark two- and four-soliton solutions for the reverse-time nonlocal nonlinear Schrödinger equation. Beyond the fundamental nondegenerate one-soliton solution, we have identified and characterized nondegenerate breather bound state solitons, with particular emphasis on their evolution dynamics. Furthermore, we have conducted a comprehensive analysis of the dynamic behavior exhibited by degenerate bright-dark soliton structures.These findings offer potential applications for nondegenerate and degenerate soliton interactions in nonlocal models.
Smart DIC-3D: towards full-automatic, user-independent, accurate and precise 3D shape and displacement measurement
Authors: Pan Bing , Zhao Jianhui , Jia Liang , Yu Liping
Published: February 2025

Existing three-dimensional digital image correlation (3D-DIC) for surface 3D shape and deformation measurement requires the users to input key calculation parameters (e.g. subset size) to proceed with stereo and temporal matching. However, the lack of clear guidelines for optimal parameter selection often leads to ambiguity and uncertainty in the final measurements. To eliminate the ambiguity and realize full-automatic, user-independent, accurate and precise 3D-DIC measurements, we present a simple yet effective Smart DIC-3D. By fully considering local speckle quality and deformation, Smart DIC-3D automatically selects the optimal subset size for each calculation point in both stereo and temporal matching. Additionally, a fully automated initial value estimation method, combining speeded-up robust features with a reliability-guided displacement tracking strategy, ensures automatic reliable initial value estimation for both matching processes. Both numerical experiments with simulated stereo speckle images and practical applications including complex shape reconstruction and non-uniform deformation measurement were conducted to verify the effectiveness and accuracy of Smart DIC-3D. The experimental results show that Smart DIC-3D has lower random and under-matched systematic errors than regular 3D-DIC, enabling high-fidelity 3D shape reconstruction and deformation measurement independent of the practitioners’ input.
Thickness dependence of chemical ordering and fourfold exchange anisotropy in FeRh/CoFe bilayers
Authors: Meng Jing , Zhu Xiaoyan , hui Zhang , Jiang Dongmei , Xu Yang , Cheng wenjuan , Shang Tian , Zhan Qingfeng
Published: February 2025

Fourfold exchange anisotropy has recently been discovered in bilayers consisting of a ferromagnetic (FM) layer exchange-coupling with an epitaxial antiferromagnetic (AF) layer. The chemical ordering of the AF layer plays an important role in the interfacial exchange coupling of AF/FM bilayers. Herein, we studied the thickness dependence of the chemical ordering and fourfold exchange anisotropy of FeRh/CoFe bilayers before and after the AF-FM phase transition of FeRh. The chemical ordering parameter of FeRh obtained by X-ray diffraction increases with thickness due to the decrease in the proportion of low-order interfaces, which results in an increase in the magnetic phase transition temperature and a decrease in the phase transition width, residual magnetization in the AF state, and lattice constant. After the occurrence of the AF-FM phase transition, the fourfold exchange anisotropy observed in the CoFe layer by magneto-optical Kerr effect changes from the FeRh〈110〉 to 〈100〉 directions, indicating the orientation change in the cubic magnetocrystalline anisotropy of FeRh. The fourfold exchange anisotropy measured by ferromagnetic resonance continues to increase with the FeRh thickness, indicating an effective thickness by far larger than that of chemically disordered AF systems. The FeRh/FM exchange coupling is highly dependent on chemical ordering, not only on the low-order surface of a few nanometers but also on the high-order interior extending to a depth of tens of nanometers.
Tracking Long-Distance Power Transmission Line under Uncertain Wind Fields by QUAV Using Nonlinear Model Predictive Control
Authors: Li Kun , Kang Liping , Han Ying , Leau Yu-Beng
Published: February 2025

In long-distance power transmission line inspections, utilizing a quadrotor unmanned aerial vehicle (QUAV) to stably and safely track high-voltage power lines from a safe distance has been demonstrated as an effective method. However, due to the intricate 3D spatial configuration of the power lines and the challenges in accurately detecting them, maintaining a consistent and safe tracking distance between the drone and the power lines remains a significant challenge. Additionally, the variability of wind patterns in long-distance inspection areas further complicates the task of ensuring stable tracking. Therefore, considering both the kinematic constraints of the QUAV-gimbal camera system and the influence of dynamic wind fields, this study proposes a Nonlinear Model Predictive Controller (NMPC) based approach for QUAV power line tracking. Initially, the QUAV's target tracking control task is formulated as an optimization problem, incorporating stringent motion attitude constraints to establish a cost function for target tracking distance in 3D space. Subsequently, by integrating gimbal camera functionality, a field-of-view (FOV) cost model is developed to determine the QUAV's target point while accounting for wind disturbance factors. Through the implementation of the NMPC controller, continuous airborne tracking is achieved while mitigating adverse effects from time-varying wind fields. Ultimately, optimal control input commands are generated for use with both the QUAV and gimbal controllers. Simulation experiments validate that this method effectively enables the QUAV to track long-distance power lines within time-varying wind field environments, with high precision, efficiency, and robust tracking performance.
First principles prediction of the valley Hall effect in ScBrCl monolayer
Authors: Yu Xiang , Li Ping , Zhang Chang-Wen
Published: February 2025

Two-dimensional ferrovalley materials with valley-dependent Hall effect have attracted great interest due to their significant applications in spintronics. In this paper, by using first-principles computational simulations, we predict that the ScBrCl monolayer is a two-dimensional (2D) ferrovalley material with valley-dependent multiple Hall effects. After calculations, we found that the ScBrCl monolayer has excellent thermodynamic stability and kinetic stability, and has a high magnetic transition temperature. When the magnetization direction is turned from in-plane to out-of-plane, a large valley polarization of 44 meV can be generated. In particular, under 5.1%-5.3% tensile strain conditions, ScBrCl monolayer can achieve quantum anomalous Hall effect, and further prove its existence through non-zero Chern number and non-trivial edge state. Our discovery enriches the research on valley-dependent Hall effect and promotes the potential application of 2D Janus monolayer in valley electronics.
The electronic structure and disorder effect of La3Ni2O7 superconductor
Authors: Wang Yuxin , Zhang Yi , Jiang Kun
Published: February 2025

Determining the electronic structure of La3Ni2O7 is an essential step towards uncovering their superconducting mechanism. It is widely believed that the bilayer apical oxygens play an important role in the bilayer La3Ni2O7 electronic structure. Applying the hybrid exchange-correlation functionals, we obtain a more accurate electronic structure of La3Ni2O7 at its high-pressure phase, where the bonding d

z
2
band is below the Fermi level owing to apical oxygen. The symmetry properties of this electronic structure and its corresponding tightbinding model are further analyzed. We find the antisymmetric part is highly entangled leading to a minimal nearly degenerate two-orbital model. Then, the apical oxygen vacancies effect is studied using the dynamical cluster approximation. This disorder effect strongly destroys the antisymmetric β Fermi surface leading to the possible disappearance of superconductivity.
STORI'24: Electron And Stochastic Beam Cooling For Intensive Heavy Ion Beams At Nica Complex: Experiments And Plans
Authors: Syresin Evgeny , Tamashevich Yegor , Lebedev Valery , Gorelyshev Ivan , Meshkov Igor , Osipov Konstantin , Prokofichev Yuriy , Shpakov Vladimir , Semenov Sergey , Sergeev Anton , Sidorin Anatoly , Timonin Roman , Trubnikov Grigory , Bryzgunov Maksim , Bubley Aleksandr , Panasyuk Vitalij , Parkhomchuk Vasily , Reva V
Published: February 2025

The Nuclotron-based Ion Collider fAcility (NICA) is currently under construction at JINR, with the first beam tests of the Collider scheduled for the second half of 2025. The NICA project aims to provide colliding beams for studying heavy fully stripped ion collisions at energies of up to 4.5 GeV/u. The NICA accelerator complex comprises several components: the operational heavy ion linac HILAC with an energy of 3.2 MeV/u, the superconducting Booster synchrotron with a maximum energy of 600 MeV/u, the superconducting Nuclotron synchrotron capable of accelerating gold ions to 3.9 GeV/u, and two storage rings with two interaction points currently being installed. Two electron cooling systems are included—one in the Booster synchrotron with a maximum electron energy of 60 keV, and another in the Collider with two electron beams, each with a maximum energy of 2.5 MeV. Additionally, two stochastic cooling systems are implemented. The status of the NICA accelerator complex, including its cooling systems, is presented. Experimental results from electron cooling studies conducted during the commissioning of the injection complex are reported. Plans for further development and application of electron and stochastic cooling systems are also described.
Evaluation of seed treatment fungicides for cotton seedling disease management near Belle Mina, AL, 2024
Authors: Lawaju Bisho Ram , Schloemer Claire , Lawrence Kathy
Published: February 2025

Cotton seedling diseases caused by fungal pathogens (Rhizoctonia solani, Thielaviopsis basicola, Pythium spp., Fusarium spp.) can reduce plant survival and yield, posing a significant challenge to production. Common symptoms include damping-off, root rot, and stunted growth. This study evaluated the effectiveness of seed treatment fungicides for improving cotton (Gossypium hirsutum ‘DP 2038 B3XF’) establishment and yield. The trial was conducted in 2024 at the Tennessee Valley Research and Extension Center, Belle Mina, AL. Findings will help growers select effective treatments to enhance seedling health and optimize yield, contributing to improved cotton production under varying environmental conditions.
Myth Versus Reality: A Review of Social Media Claims and Scientific Evidence for Arnica Montana in Postinjectable Procedures
Authors: Ryzhaya Natalia , Rivers Jason K.
Published: February 2025

BACKGROUND

Reduced bruising and swelling after aesthetic procedures accelerates recovery. Arnica montana is widely used by physicians and promoted on social media, although its efficacy in aesthetic medicine remains uncertain.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the validity of social media claims regarding Arnica's therapeutic benefits, focusing on aesthetic injectable procedures.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Social media platforms, TikTok and Reddit, were searched on April 24, 2024, covering a 2-year period, using terms: “arnica montana,” “arnica,” “arnica filler,” “arnica botox,” and “arnica gel.” A literature review was conducted using OVID Medline and Embase databases with keywords “arnica” and “arnica montana.”

RESULTS

A total of 48 TikTok posts and 305 Reddit entries were identified; with 91.7% and 58% of posts, respectively, endorsing Arnica use, primarily without scientific evidence. The literature review revealed limited and mixed evidence for Arnica's efficacy, with only 1 study addressing dermatologic injectable procedures. Systematic reviews indicated a small effect size for Arnica in surgical settings, with no specific focus on dermatologic applications.

CONCLUSION

Despite its popularity on social media and frequent use by health care providers, scientific evidence supporting Arnica's efficacy in reducing bruising and swelling after aesthetic procedures remains inconclusive. Social media discussions predominantly supported Arnica use, with limited opposition noted.
Examinee non-disclosure of relevant medical information during transportation related regulatory examinations: a case-series
Authors: Minsinger Kristopher D. , Graber Judith M. , Nezam Hasan , Caruth Julie , Udasin Iris
Published: February 2025

Objective

In the past decade, U.S. transport accidents have resulted in over 370,000 fatalities. Research on medical history non-disclosure during mandatory regulatory exams has been limited. This study used the National Transportation Safety Board’s (NTSB) Case Analysis and Reporting Online (CAROL) database to: (1) Identify non-disclosure, (2) Assess non-disclosure patterns, (3) Evaluate CAROL’s research potential.

Methods

The CAROL database was searched for U.S. cases (01/01/2010-01/29/2024) involving fatalities and medically-related causes. Non-disclosure was defined as operators with undisclosed preexisting conditions or medications in NTSB reports. Twelve cases with recurring themes were described in detail.

Results

Of 3,012 accidents, 258 met our criteria; 80 (31%) indicated examinee non-disclosure in the NTSB investigation.

Conclusion

Operator non-disclosure in NTSB cases underscores CAROL’s value for further investigations and highlights the risks non-disclosure poses to U.S. transportation safety.
Cross-Context Validation of a Technostress Scale for the aging workforce
Authors: Comotti Anna , Fattori Alice , Tecco Cristina Di , Bufano Pasquale , Laurino Marco , Mastorci Francesca , Russo Simone , Barnini Teresa , Ferrari Luca , Ciocan Catalina , Bonzini Matteo
Published: February 2025

Objective: This study examines the psychometric properties of a workplace-adapted version of an existing Technostress scale to assess technostress in workers over 50 across different companies.

Methods: Data were collected from 470 workers over 50 across finance, packaging, and steel sectors. We evaluated the internal consistency, criterion validity, and factor structure of the Technostress scale using Cronbach’s alpha, McDonald’s Omega, Confirmatory Factor Analysis, and correlations with stress, coping, well-being, and workability.

Results: Scale and subscales demonstrated strong reliability (coefficients>0.75) and validity. CFA confirmed bifactor model with optimal fit indices (CFI = 0.98, TLI = 0.96, RMSEA = 0.05). Technostress correlated positively with stress and negatively with well-being and workability. Significant differences in technostress were observed by sex and occupational role.

Conclusions: The adapted scale is a reliable tool for evaluating technostress among older workers, supporting tailored interventions to enhance workplace well-being and productivity.
Clinical outcome and prognosis of differentiated thyroid carcinoma with distant metastasis
Authors: Shan Chanchan , Xu Shichen , Cai Gangming , Li Mengdi , Wang Tingting , Li Aoshuang , Zhong Aisheng , Zhang Jian
Published: February 2025

Objective

The objective of this study is to investigate the risk and prognostic factors for radioactive iodine (RAI)-refractory (RAIR) differentiated thyroid cancer (DTC) with distant metastasis.

Methods

A total of 128 patients with distant metastasis-DTC who underwent iodine-131 radiotherapy were included in this cohort study. After exclusion, 75 DTC patients who were resistant to radioiodine therapy and 53 patients in whom the treatment was successful were finally included. Clinical data as well as BRAF V600E and telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT) promoter mutations were compared between these two groups to predict the risk of RAIR. Patients with RAIR-distant metastasis-DTC were followed up to further investigate the risk factors for disease progression after the cancer became iodine-refractory.

Results

Univariate analysis showed that TERTp mutation, age at diagnosis, mean maximum tumor diameter, lymph node metastasis, synchronous metastasis or heterochronous metastasis, mean cumulative dose of RAI, and preoperative Tg were statistically different between the RAIR and RAIE (radioiodine efficient) groups. Logistic regression analysis further found that the TERTp mutation may be risk factor for iodine refractory occurrence. During the follow-up of RAIR-distant metastasis-DTC patients, 41 patients developed disease progression, and 24 patients had good disease control.

Conclusion

We found that TERTp mutation is correlated with the poor curative effect of RAI therapy in distant metastasis-DTC. Once iodine refractory occurs, patients aged 55 years or older are more likely to develop disease progression.
Pharmacogenomics of the Etonogestrel Contraceptive Implant
Authors: Lazorwitz Aaron , Aquilante Christina L. , Shortt Jonathan A. , Gignoux Christopher R. , Teal Stephanie , Sheeder Jeanelle
Published: February 2025

OBJECTIVE:

To identify novel genetic loci associated with differences in serum etonogestrel concentrations among contraceptive implant users.

METHODS:

We conducted a cross-sectional analysis in which we enrolled healthy, reproductive-aged (age 18–45 years) participants who had been using etonogestrel implants for 12–48 months. Participants underwent a single-time blood draw for measurement of serum etonogestrel concentrations by liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry and the extraction of DNA from whole blood. We genotyped participants using the Illumina Infinium Global Diversity Array with Enhanced PGx and imputed genotyping results using the TOPMed imputation server. We performed genome-wide complex trait analysis using a linear mixed model leave-one-chromosome-out association analysis to identify genetic variants associated with serum etonogestrel concentrations.

RESULTS:

We enrolled 900 etonogestrel implant users, with a median age of 22.3 years (range 18.0–41.5 years), median body mass index (BMI) 26.0 (range 18.5–52.0), and median duration of implant use 27 months (range 12–48 months). Most participants self-reported their race as White (49.3%) and ethnicity as Hispanic or Latina (52.9%). Participants had a median serum etonogestrel concentration of 126.9 pg/mL (range 39.4–695.1 pg/mL). Including BMI, duration of implant use, and three principal components as covariates in the genome-wide complex trait analysis, we identified no genetic variants with minor allele frequencies at or above 5% that were associated with serum etonogestrel concentrations at genome-wide significance (P<5.0×10−8). When including rare genetic variants (minor allele frequencies at or above 1%), we discovered 10 genetic loci of interest (RNF114; LINC02405; SYNE1; TSPAN14; CRYZL2P-SEC16B; CHRNA9; RIMS1; CCDC88C; and CBL), all containing genetic variants associated with increased serum etonogestrel concentrations. Among these novel genetic loci associated with serum etonogestrel concentrations, only one (CRYZL2P-SEC16B) has potential, albeit limited, physiologic plausibility.

CONCLUSION:

Despite enhanced coverage for known pharmacogenomic variants, we found no significant associations between interindividual variability in contraceptive implant pharmacokinetics and genetic loci directly involved in exogenous steroid hormone metabolism.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION:

ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03092037.
Physical characteristics of Jupiter's Trojan (1437) Diomedes from a tri-chord stellar occultation in 2020 and dimensionless three-dimensional model
Authors: Dutra H. , Assafin M. , Sicardy B. , Ortiz J. L. , Gomes-Júnior A. R. , Morgado B. E. , Benedetti-Rossi G. , Braga Ribas F. , Margoti G. , Gradovski E. , Camargo J. I. B. , Boufleur R. , Vieira-Martins R. , Desmars J. , Oesper D. , Bender K. , Kitting C. , Nolthenius R.
Published: February 2025

Jupiter Trojans preserve primitive formation characteristics owing to their collisionless, stable orbits. Determination of their shapes and size-frequency distribution helps constrain the collisional evolution of their parent population, which also originated the Kuiper Belt. We started a programme to find precise sizes/shapes for Trojans, combining stellar occultations and the Database of Asteroid Models from Inversion Techniques (DAMIT) three-dimensional shape models. We report results for Diomedes, by fitting its unit dimensionless three-dimensional model to three chords of a stellar occultation observed in 2020, using iterative

χ
2

procedures. The pole coordinates, rotation period, volume-equivalent radius and geometric albedo were

λ

= 153.73°

±

2.5°,

β

= 12.69°

±

2.6°,

P

= 24.4984

±

0.0002 h,

R

e
q

= 59.4

±

0.3 km and

p
V

= 0.030

±

0.004, respectively. A precise position was also obtained.

This article is part of the theme issue ‘Major advances in planetary sciences thanks to stellar occultations’.
Unidirectional airflow, air sacs or the horizontal septum: what does it take to make a bird lung?
Authors: Schachner Emma R. , Moore Andrew J.
Published: February 2025

In this review, we evaluate the differences between the pulmonary anatomy of birds and other sauropsids, specifically those traits that make the avian respiratory system distinct: a fully decoupled and immobilized, isovolumetric gas-exchanging lung separated from compliant ventilatory air sacs by a horizontal septum. Imaging data, three-dimensional digital anatomical models and dissection images from a red-tailed hawk (
Buteo jamaicensis
), common ostrich (
Struthio camelus
), barred owl (
Strix varia
), African grey parrot (
Psittacus erithacus
) and zebra finch (
Taeniopygia castanotis
) are used to demonstrate the anatomical variation seen in the pulmonary air sacs, diverticula and the horizontal septum. We address the current state of knowledge regarding the avian respiratory system and the myriad areas that require further study, including the comparative and quantitative ecomorphology of the bronchial tree and air sacs, the non-ventilatory functions of the sacs and diverticula, the fluid dynamics and anatomical mechanisms underlying unidirectional airflow, post-cranial skeletal pneumaticity, and how all of these factors impact reconstructions of respiratory tissues in extinct archosaurs, particularly ornithodirans (i.e. pterosaurs + non-avian dinosaurs). Specifically, we argue that without evidence for the horizontal septum, a fully avian lung should not be reconstructed in non-avian ornithodirans, despite the presence of post-cranial skeletal pneumaticity.

This article is part of the theme issue ‘The biology of the avian respiratory system’.
Biology of the avian respiratory system: development, evolutionary morphology, function and clinical considerations
Authors: Maina John N. , Schachner Emma R.
Published: February 2025

The respiratory biology of birds has been of interest to researchers for centuries, particularly owing to its dramatically heterogeneous structure, unusual ability for non-ventilatory structures to invade nearly all parts of the body (including the skeleton) in many taxa, and its exceptional efficiency under high-altitude hypoxia. Advances in imaging, experimental and developmental techniques, as well as recent palaeontological specimens have facilitated new discoveries, analyses and progress in the field. Comprehensively, this theme issue shows the origin of the modern avian respiratory system, current controversies and how the evolution of respiratory structures in birds has impacted their biology from the molecular, to the cellular, to the phylogenetic level. This collection of articles addresses progress the field has made, gaps in our knowledge and where the field needs to go, with a primary focus on adult and embryonic form and function but also touching on vocalization and clinical aspects of avian respiratory biology.

This article is part of the theme issue ‘The biology of the avian respiratory system’.
Respiratory anatomy and physiology in diving penguins
Authors: Ponganis P. J. , Williams C. L. , Scadeng M.
Published: February 2025

The anatomy and function of the respiratory systems of penguins are reviewed in relation to gas exchange and minimization of the risks of pulmonary barotrauma, decompression sickness and nitrogen narcosis during dives. Topics include available lung morphology and morphometry, respiratory air volumes determined with different techniques, review of possible physiological and biomechanical mechanisms of baroprotection, calculations of baroprotection limits and review of air sac and arterial partial pressure of oxygen (P
O2
) profiles in relation to movement of air during breathing and during dives. Limits for baroprotection to 200, 400 and 600 m in Adélie, king and emperor penguins, respectively, would require complete transfer of air sac air and reductions in the combined tracheobronchial tree—parabronchial volume of 24% in Adélie, 53% in king penguins and 76% in emperor penguins. Air sac and arterial P
O2
profiles at rest and during surface activity were consistent with unidirectional air flow through the lungs. During dives, P
O2
profiles were more complex, but were consistent with compression of air sac air into the parabronchi and air capillaries with or without additional air mixing induced by potential differential air sac pressures generated by wing movements.

This article is part of the theme issue ‘The biology of the avian respiratory system’.
Warming and reduced rainfall alter fungal necromass decomposition rates and associated microbial community composition and functioning at a temperate-boreal forest ecotone
Authors: Cantoran Anahi , Maillard François , Bermudez Raimundo , Stefanski Artur , Reich Peter B. , Kennedy Peter G.
Published: February 2025

Changes in temperature and rainfall regimes will have significant yet potentially contrasting impacts on rates of soil organic matter (SOM) decomposition. To assess how a combined stress treatment of warming and drought impacts the decomposition of fungal necromass—a fast-cycling soil organic matter (SOM) pool—we incubatedHyaloscypha bicolornecromass under both ambient and altered conditions (air and soil warming +3.3°C and ∼40% reduced rainfall) at the B4Warmed experiment in Minnesota, USA. We conducted two multi-week incubations, one assessing mass loss and microbial community composition on decaying necromass after 1, 2, 7, and 14 weeks and the second characterizing the substrate utilization capacities of necromass- associated microbial communities after weeks 1 and 7. Warming and reduced rainfall significantly accelerated the initial rate of necromass decay by ∼20%, but overall mass loss was not different between treatments at the end of the 14-week incubation. The accelerated initial rate of decay paralleled shifts in microbial community composition and activity in the altered plots, demonstrating a higher metabolic capability to utilize C and N substrates early in decomposition but a lower capability later in decay. These findings highlight the dynamic, stage-dependent response of fungal necromass decomposition to altered climate regimes, underscoring the importance of considering both temporal dynamics and the functional capacity of microbial communities when assessing the impacts of climate change on soil carbon and nutrient cycling in forest ecosystems.
Experimental Evidence for Phosphorylation-Driven Allosteric Regulation of Alpha Synuclein Function
Authors: Dollar Ashlyn N. , Webb Ian K.
Published: February 2025

Phosphorylation of serine 129 (pS129) in the intrinsically disordered protein alpha synuclein has long been associated with neurodegenerative disease. In the past several years, the functional relevance of pS219 has been uncovered by electrophysiology, immunoprecipitation, and proteomics as intricately connected with neurotransmitter release and synaptic vesicle (SV) cycling. Unexpectedly, binding to SNARE complex proteins VAMP-2 and synapsin only occurs with phosphorylation-competent alpha synuclein. The VAMP-2 binding domain has been shown to be residues 96-110, which does not include the phosphorylated residue, hinting at allosteric regulation of alpha synuclein protein-protein interactions by pS129. Within this study, cross-linking, covalent labeling, and collision induced unfolding of alpha synuclein and pS129 – as well as an additional encountered form in the brain, oxidized-M1, M5, M116, M127 alpha synuclein – are studied utilizing tandem mass spectrometry. Collision induced unfolding of proteins gives a fingerprint of the structures’ relative compactness and stabilities of various conformations. Covalent labeling of proteins identifies solvent accessible residues and reveals the hydrophobicity (or hydrophilicity) of their microenvironment, while cross-linking of proteins maps the proximity of residue pairs. The combination of collision induced unfolding, covalent labeling, and cross-linking show unequivocally that phosphorylated-S129 alpha synuclein results in a more stable, more compact form. Our results provide evidence of an extensively folded amphipathic region that interacts strongly with the VAMP-2 binding domain. The phosphorylation-induced folding of the amphipathic region likely tunes other protein-protein interactions and interactions with SVs and membranes.
The pivotal role of a novel free fatty acid receptor GPR164 in the intestinal barrier function
Authors: Ikeda Takako , Masujima Yuki , Watanabe Keita , Nishida Akari , Yamano Mayu , Igarashi Miki , Sasaki Nobuo , Katoh Hironori , Kimura Ikuo
Published: February 2025

GPR164 is a novel free fatty acid receptor, activated by both short-chain fatty acids and medium-chain fatty acids, and expressed throughout the gastrointestinal tract. Although GPR164 is reported to be involved in the release of gut hormones, the physiological functions of this receptor in the maintenance of intestinal homeostasis remain unclear. In this study, we explored the role of GPR164 in regulating intestinal barrier function using mice lackingGpr164gene (Gpr164-/-). A loss-of-function mutation inGPR164promoted cell proliferation and disrupted the intestinal barrier function in both Caco-2 cell line and mice. Genome-wide RNA-seq analysis revealed thatGPR164deletion caused aberrant wnt/β-catenin signaling, and the intraperitoneal injection of wnt/β-catenin inhibitor ameliorated a series of abnormalities ofGpr164-/-mice.Gpr164-/-mice also exhibited gut microbial dysbiosis and severe inflammation, indicating that deletion ofGpr164causes similar pathologies observed in patients with inflammation bowel disease (IBD). Thus, our findings uncover the pivotal role of GPR164 in the maintenance of intestinal barrier function, providing an attractive clinical target for IBD.
Highlighting the species diversity, pricing trends, and conservation concerns in a major ornamental fish hub
Authors: Ho Samuel CL , Chan Jeffery CF , Lee Wing Him , Sung Yik-Hei , Liew Jia Huan
Published: February 2025

The global ornamental fish trade presents significant challenges to conservation of biodiversity. Here we explore patterns in the freshwater ornamental fish market in Hong Kong, a major wildlife trading hub. Weekly surveys over three-months in the primary aquarium district documented 540 freshwater fish species from 73 families. We found that species occurrence in the market was largely price-driven, and minimum retail price was the strongest predictor of their frequency of occurrence. Along the occurrence-price gradient, we found that potentially undescribed species dominated the rare/expensive end of the market, potentially influenced by the anthropogenic allée effect. Alarmingly, 86 species (16%) were potentially undescribed, while 38% were either not evaluated or classified as Data Deficient by the IUCN. While common/cheaper species dominate the market, the substantial number of little-known species being sold is of conservation concern, underscoring the need for more extensive monitoring at the risk of losing them to unregulated exploitation.
Using aerial thermography to map terrestrial thermal environments in unprecedented detail
Authors: Alujević Karla , Garcia-Costoya Guillermo , Ratia Noa , Schmitz Emma , Godkin Russell S. , Gopal Akhila C. , Bujan Jelena , Logan Michael L.
Published: February 2025

The accurate quantification of thermal environments is crucial for predicting the impacts of climate change across ecosystems.

Two major obstacles exist in mapping biologically relevant thermal landscapes: 1) overcoming the mismatch between the spatial resolution at which environmental data are typically collected and the scale at which a particular organism experiences thermal variation, and 2) quantifying thermal landscapes without substantial measurement gaps in time or space.

We present a new method that integrates aerial thermography from uncrewed aerial vehicles with field-deployed operative temperature models to generate fine-scale, spatiotemporally complete maps of operative temperature.

To ensure the accessibility of our method, we developed an R package, ‘throne’, which streamlines the necessary corrections to raw drone data and produces operative thermal landscapes for any day or time during which data loggers were deployed.

Our method allows researchers to generate detailed and biologically relevant thermal landscapes for species of interest which should enhance our understanding of animal thermal ecology and improve our ability to forecast the responses of organisms to environmental change.
Artificial light at night intensifies effects of a parasitic flatworm on the water fleaDaphnia magna
Authors: Tüzün Nedim , Hölker Franz , De Meester Luc
Published: February 2025

Artificial light at night (ALAN) can strongly alter organismal traits, but its role in shaping species interactions remains poorly understood, especially so in aquatic ecosystems. By capitalizing on a recently discovered antagonistic interaction between a brood-parasitic flatworm andDaphnia magnawater fleas, we tested whether this interaction depends on exposure to ALAN. During a 19-day laboratory population growth experiment, we manipulated flatworm presence and nighttime light conditions in a full-factorial design. We confirmed the negative effects of flatworm predation onDaphniaabundance at the population level. Importantly, we showed that the flatworm-caused decrease inDaphniaabundance under ALAN (81%) was twice as strong compared to dark-night conditions (39%). Our findings are relevant for assessing the impact of ALAN on the development ofDaphniapopulations and thus top-down control of phytoplankton. Freshwater ecosystems in urbanized areas, where this parasitic interaction was first encountered, may be especially at risk, as these are typically exposed to high levels of stress factors, including light pollution.
Limited proteolysis-coupled mass spectrometry captures proteome-wide protein structural alterations and biomolecular condensation in living cells
Authors: Elsässer Franziska , Florea Roberta , Räsch Felix , Weis Karsten , de Souza Natalie , Picotti Paola
Published: February 2025

The function of a protein is determined by its structure, which may change dynamically in response to post-translational modifications, interaction with other molecules, or environmental factors like temperature. Limited proteolysis-coupled mass spectrometry (LiP-MS) captures such structural alterations on a proteome-wide scale via the detection of altered protease susceptibility patterns of proteins. However, this technique has so far required cell lysis, which exposes proteins to non-native conditions and can disrupt labile interactions such as those occurring within biomolecular condensates. To study protein structures directly within cells, we developed in-cell LiP-MS. We optimized conditions for introduction of proteinase K into human cells using electroporation and validated that intracellular cleavage occurs. In-cell LiP-MS captured not only the known binding of rapamycin to FKBP1A within the cell, but also downstream effects of pathway activation. Moreover, it detected global protein structural alterations upon sodium arsenite treatment and captured the structural dynamics of hundreds of proteins from biomolecular condensates with peptide level resolution and within live human cells. We detected known and novel structural alterations of proteins from stress granules as well as from nuclear speckles and validated alteration of nuclear speckles by fluorescence microscopy. Our dataset provides a resource describing the structural changes of human proteins in response to cellular stress and pinpoints structurally altered regions. Further, comparison of LiP-based structural fingerprints before and after cell lysis revealed which human proteins are susceptible to structural change upon cell lysis, therefore guiding the design of future experiments requiring native protein structures.