bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effect of Vacuum Annealing on the Structural, Electric, and Optical Properties, and Photocatalytic Activities of Sputtered TiO2 and Nb-Doped TiO2 Films
Authors: Li Mengna , Fang Yingying , Liu Baoshun
Published: February 2025

TiO2 is still a prototype material in photocatalytic studies. The defects, including the intrinsic and foreign defects, are reported to be important in determining the TiO2 photocatalytic properties. In the current research, amorphous TiO2- and Nb-doped TiO2 (NTO) films were firstly prepared through magnetron sputtering, which were then heated under vacuum. The as-deposited TiO2 and NTO films were amorphous, and transferred to anatase after heating. The vacuum heating at a higher temperature caused an obvious reduction in TiO2 films, and the NTO film was more prone to be reduced as Nb dopants decreased the thermal stability of the TiO2 lattice. The structure change induced by vacuum annealing had a great effect on electric and optical properties. The conductivity of the NTO films was 10,000 times and 100 times higher than that of the undoped TiO2 films after post-vacuum heating at 450 °C and 650 °C, respectively. In addition to an increase in the band tail absorption, the NTO films presented strong free-electron absorption after vacuum heating; this means that the NTO films presented a clear Bornstein moss shift after vacuum heating because of the high conduction electron density. The change in the photoinduced absorption spectra revealed a possible result that photo-induced electrons can be also trapped at Nb sites, indicating that the Nb-related defect forms deep gap states; this greatly limits the photo-induced electron interfacial transfer. The results showed that the photocatalytic degradation of methylene blue decreased after vacuum heating.
ATF3-SLC7A7 Axis Regulates mTORC1 Signaling to Suppress Lipogenesis and Tumorigenesis in Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Zhang Qinglin , Zhu Fengzhi , Tong Yin , Huang Yunxing , Zhang Jiangwen
Published: February 2025

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) poses a substantial global health burden, with poor prognosis and high mortality rates. Dysregulated lipid metabolism has emerged as a critical driver of HCC progression. While mTORC1 signaling is known to promote lipid synthesis in HCC, the regulatory mechanisms governing mTORC1 remain largely unclear. Here, we demonstrate that mTORC1 inhibition significantly reduces lipogenesis in HCC and uncover a regulatory axis involving the transcription factor ATF3 and the leucine–arginine transporter SLC7A7. Transcriptomic analysis of HCC patients reveals an inverse correlation between ATF3 expression and lipid synthesis, a finding corroborated by experimental validation. Mechanistically, ATF3 suppresses mTORC1 signaling, thereby inhibiting lipid biosynthesis, with SLC7A7 identified as a key intermediary in this process. Specifically, ATF3 binds to the enhancer region of SLC7A7, driving its transcriptional activation and subsequently restraining mTORC1 activity. Functional assays in ATF3-overexpressing and -knockdown HCC cell lines further confirm ATF3′s role as a tumor suppressor. Our study identifies a novel ATF3-SLC7A7-mTORC1 regulatory axis that attenuates lipogenesis and tumorigenesis in HCC, establishing a critical link between lipid metabolism and hepatocarcinogenesis. These findings offer new insights into potential therapeutic targets for the treatment of HCC.
Drug- and Cell-Type-Specific Effects of ROCK Inhibitors as a Potential Cause of Reticular Corneal Epithelial Edema
Authors: Schlötzer-Schrehardt Ursula , Gießl Andreas , Zenkel Matthias , Bartsch Alexander , Okumura Naoki , Koizumi Noriko , Kinoshita Shigeru , Tourtas Theofilos , Kruse Friedrich E.
Published: February 2025

Rho-associated kinase (ROCK) inhibitors have gained popularity as novel treatment options in the management of glaucoma and corneal endothelial disorders. Among the various ocular side effects, reticular corneal epithelial edema has been most frequently reported, mainly after treatment with netarsudil. To explain the potential mechanisms, we comparatively analyzed the effects of ripasudil and netarsudil on corneal endothelial and epithelial function in vitro. Primary human corneal endothelial and epithelial cells were incubated with netarsudil dihydrochloride and ripasudil hydrochloride dihydrate for up to 7 days. Gene and protein expression analyses were performed by real-time PCR and immunocytochemistry. Functional assays assessed the cell migration, proliferation, viability, Na+/K+-ATPase activity, transcellular electrical resistance, and FITC–dextran permeability. Reticular bullous corneal epithelial edema was observed in a patient following netarsudil 0.02%/latanoprost 0.005% ophthalmic solution (Roclanda®) for elevated intraocular pressure. In the subsequent laboratory analyses, both netarsudil and ripasudil were found to improve the corneal endothelial pump and barrier function, but they showed differential effects on corneal epithelial cells. Whereas ripasudil improved the epithelial barrier function by upregulating major components of the tight and adherens junctions and reducing paracellular permeability, netarsudil had no or even adverse effects on the epithelial barrier properties by downregulating the expression levels of cell-junction-associated genes. The expression changes normalized after discontinuation of ROCK inhibitors. The findings support the concept that ROCK inhibitors can act as a double-edged sword by having beneficial effects on corneal endothelial cells and adverse effects on epithelial cells.
Exploring the Efficacy and Target Genes of Atractylodes Macrocephala Koidz Against Alzheimer’s Disease Based on Multi-Omics, Computational Chemistry, and Experimental Verification
Authors: Zheng Yuanteng , Gao Xin , Tang Jiyang , Gao Li , Cui Xiaotong , Liu Kechun , Zhang Xiujun , Jin Meng
Published: February 2025

Objective: To unveil the efficacy and ferroptosis-related mechanisms of Atractylodes Macrocephala Koidz (AMK) against Alzheimer’s disease (AD), which is the most widespread neurodegenerative disease. Methods: Gene set variation analysis (GSVA) scores were used to investigate the relationship between ferroptosis and AD. Logistic regression with seven feature selections and a deep learning model were utilized to identify potential targets of AMK based on transcriptomic data from multiple tissues. A transcriptome-wide association study (TWAS), summary-data-based mendelian randomization (SMR), and mendelian randomization (MR) were utilized to validate the causal relationship between target genes and AD risk. A single-gene gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) was employed to investigate the biological pathways associated with the target genes. Three molecular docking strategies and a molecular dynamics simulation were employed to verify the binding domains interacting with AMK. Furthermore, the anti-AD effects of AMK were validated in a zebrafish AD model by testing behavior responses, apoptosis, and the deposition of beta-amyloid (Aβ) in the brain. Ultimately, real-time qPCR was used to verify the ferroptosis-related targets, which was identified via multi-omics. Results: Ferroptosis is an important pathogenic mechanism of AD, as suggested by the GSVA scores. AMK may exert its anti-AD activity through targets genes identified in the brain (ATP5MC3, GOT1, SAT1, EGFR, and MAPK9) and blood (G6PD, PGD, ALOX5, HMOX1, and ULK1). EGFR and HMOX1 were further confirmed as target genes mediating the anti-AD activity of AMK through TWAS, SMR, and MR analyses. The GSEA results indicated that EGFR may be involved in oxidative phosphorylation-related pathways, while HMOX1 may be associated with lysosome and phagosome pathways. The results of three molecular docking strategies and molecular dynamics simulations implied that the kinase domain of EGFR and the catalytic domain of HMOX1 played pivotal roles in the interaction between AMK and the targets. In a zebrafish model, AD-like symptoms including motor slowness and delayed responses, neuronal apoptosis, and plaque deposition in the brain, were significantly improved after AMK treatment. Accordingly, AMK reversed the abnormal expression of egfra and hmox1a, two core targets genes involved in ferroptosis. Conclusions: AMK significantly alleviated AD-like symptoms through the modulation of EGFR and HMOX1, which might reduce lipid peroxidation, thereby suppressing ferroptosis. This study provided evidence supporting the efficacy and therapeutic targets associated with ferroptosis in AMK-treated AD, which aid in the development of therapeutic interventions.
The Relationship Between the Occurrence of Fires and Family Farming in Municipalities in the State of São Paulo, Brazil
Authors: Magalhães Leonardo Pinto de , Gallo Anderson de Souza , Fernandez Guilherme Honório , Sais Adriana Cavalieri , Oliveira Renata Evangelista de
Published: February 2025

In recent years, particularly in 2024, there has been an escalation in the frequency and intensity of megafires in the state of São Paulo, Brazil. This state, the most industrialized in the country, has seen extensive land-use changes in recent decades, with agriculture extending upon areas previously dedicated to other uses and forests. The practice of family farming, which is distinguished by its smaller operational areas and the majority involvement of the family that owns the land, has the potential to influence the occurrence of fires, but few studies have explored the link between agricultural practices (especially the difference between family and other farming types) and fire intensity. This study aims to assess whether the higher presence of family-farming establishments in different municipalities reduces fire incidents. The results indicate that the municipalities with the highest presence of family farming present lower percentages of burned areas. The increased diversity in crop types and the presence of forest cover within these municipalities have been identified as contributing factors to this reduced fire rate and burned areas. These findings underscore the need for public policies that support family farming as a strategy to reduce fires and protect vulnerable farmers in rural landscapes.
Development and Validation of a Screening Equation for Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Authors: Fabozzi Antonio , Steffanina Alessia , Bonini Matteo , Palange Paolo
Published: February 2025

Background: The high prevalence of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), about 30% of people worldwide over 30 years old, underscores the crucial need for early screening. This study aimed to identify key predictive factors for OSA; use these factors to develop a screening equation for a population at high risk for OSA; and prospectively validate this equation’s application. Methods: The study included two phases: a retrospective phase examining anthropometric data, the Epworth sleepiness scale (ESS), and the home sleep apnea test (HSAT) from 200 patients referred to the Respiratory Sleep Disorder Center at Policlinico Umberto I, Rome, Italy (January 2020–January 2023) to create a predictive equation for OSA using multivariate analysis (with the most predictive data according to scientific literature). A prospective phase testing this equation on 53 patients from May 2023 to September 2024. Results: In the retrospective phase, the most predictive variables for the apnea–hypopnea index (AHI) identified were neck circumference (NC) and the Epworth sleepiness scale (ESS). The predictive equation derived from the multivariate analysis was as follows: AHIp = [−70.498 + (2.196 × NC) + (0.809 × ESS)]. In the prospective phase of the study, we compared the AHI predicted by the equation (AHIp) with the AHI measured via the HSAT (AHIm) in 53 patients recruited. The results showed that AHIp had a sensitivity of 95%, a specificity of 28%, a positive predictive value (PPV) of 46%, and a negative predictive value (NPV) of 90%. Conclusions: This study identified NC and ESS as key predictors of OSA, forming a predictive equation. This equation, showing high sensitivity and high NPV, may be useful as a screening method to rule out OSA.
Image Quality in Adaptive Optics Optical Coherence Tomography of Diabetic Patients
Authors: Brunner Elisabeth , Kunze Laura , Drexler Wolfgang , Pollreisz Andreas , Pircher Michael
Published: February 2025

Background/Objectives: An assessment of the retinal image quality in adaptive optics optical coherence tomography (AO-OCT) is challenging. Many factors influence AO-OCT imaging performance, leading to greatly varying imaging results, even in the same subject. The aim of this study is to introduce quantitative means for an assessment of AO-OCT image quality and to compare these with parameters retrieved from the pyramid wavefront sensor of the system. Methods: We used a spectral domain AO-OCT instrument to repetitively image six patients suffering from diabetic retinopathy over a time span of one year. The data evaluation consists of two volume acquisitions with a focus on the photoreceptor layer, each at five different retinal locations per visit; 7–8 visits per patient are included in this data analysis, resulting in a total of ~420 volumes. Results: A large variability in AO-OCT image quality is observed between subjects and between visits of the same subject. On average, the image quality does not depend on the measurement location. The data show a moderate correlation between the axial position of the volume recording and image quality. The correlation between pupil size and AO-OCT image quality is not linear. A weak correlation is found between the signal-to-noise ratio of the wavefront sensor image and the image quality. Conclusions: The introduced AO-OCT image quality metric gives useful insights into the performance of such a system. A longitudinal assessment of this metric, together with wavefront sensor data, is essential to identify factors influencing image quality and, in the next step, to optimize the performance of AO-OCT systems.
Occurrence of Metabolic Disorders in Bilateral Primary Aldosteronism Compared to Unilateral Primary Aldosteronism
Authors: Grasselli Chiara , Baldini Maicol , Salvi Lucia , Vestita Grazia , Zizzo Maurizio , Felaco Davide , Balli Maria Carolina , Besutti Giulia , Negro Aurelio , Ghirarduzzi Angelo
Published: February 2025

Background: Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a common comorbidity associated with hypertension that occurs more often in primary aldosteronism (PA). Our work aims to investigate the prevalence of MetS and its determinants in unilateral PA and bilateral PA, as confirmed by adrenal venous sampling (AVS). Methods: This was a retrospective, cross-sectional study. We investigated metabolic indicators in 160 cases of PA, categorized by AVS—82 with unilateral PA and 78 with bilateral PA. A control group of 80 non-PA patients with essential hypertension, matched for age and sex, was also included. Results: Unilateral PA had a higher aldosterone–renin ratio and lower serum potassium levels than bilateral PA. Nevertheless, bilateral PA exhibited a higher prevalence of MetS (41% vs. 30.5%; p = 0.001), obesity, BMI, LDL hypercholesterolemia, and hypertriglyceridemia than unilateral PA. Conclusions: Bilateral PA presents a greater incidence of MetS than unilateral PA, in spite of the latter showing a higher aldosterone–renin ratio and lower serum potassium levels. The results suggest that the mechanisms underlying MetS may differ between unilateral and bilateral PA.
Oxidative Stress in Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia: Mechanisms, Clinical Relevance and Therapeutic Perspectives
Authors: Kaltsas Aris , Giannakas Timoleon , Stavropoulos Marios , Kratiras Zisis , Chrisofos Michael
Published: February 2025

Background/Objectives: Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is among the most common conditions affecting men as they age, resulting in lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) that can profoundly impact quality of life. While historically attributed primarily to androgenic imbalances, current evidence implicates additional factors—particularly oxidative stress (OS) and chronic inflammation—in BPH pathogenesis. This review aims to synthesize research on the interplay between OS, inflammation, and hormonal regulation in BPH, emphasizing their clinical relevance and potential therapeutic implications. Methods: A comprehensive review of peer-reviewed literature was conducted focusing on mechanistic studies, clinical trials, and observational reports. Searches included data on ROS generation, antioxidant capacity, inflammatory mediators, and their contribution to pathological prostatic overgrowth. Potential interventions targeting OS—such as antioxidant supplementation, anti-inflammatory drugs, vitamin D receptor agonists, and phytotherapeutics—were also evaluated for their efficacy and safety profiles. Results: Chronic inflammation and OS were consistently identified within hyperplastic prostate tissue. Excessive ROS production, diminished antioxidant defense, and sustained cytokine release create a proproliferative and antiapoptotic environment, accelerating disease progression. Metabolic comorbidities (e.g., obesity, insulin resistance) further exacerbate these imbalances. Standard therapies (α-blockers and 5-ARIs) effectively relieve symptoms but do not directly address the oxidative–inflammatory axis. Emerging evidence suggests that pharmacological and dietary approaches targeting OS and inflammation may reduce prostate volume expansion and alleviate LUTS. Conclusions: Findings indicate that OS and inflammation are key contributors to BPH progression. Incorporating antioxidant and anti-inflammatory strategies alongside conventional treatments holds promise for improving clinical outcomes and patient quality of life. Future research should focus on validating OS-specific biomarkers and optimizing personalized therapy regimens.
Cover Crop Biomass Predictions with Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Remote Sensing and TensorFlow Machine Learning
Authors: Poudel Aakriti , Burns Dennis , Adhikari Rejina , Duron Dulis , Hendrix James , Gentimis Thanos , Tubana Brenda , Setiyono Tri
Published: February 2025

The continuous assessment of cover crop growth throughout the season is a crucial baseline observation for making informed crop management decisions and sustainable farming operation. Precision agriculture techniques involving applications of sensors and unmanned aerial vehicles provide precise and prompt spectral and structural data, which allows for effective evaluation of cover crop biomass. Vegetation indices are widely used to quantify crop growth and biomass metrics. The objective of this study was to evaluate the accuracy of biomass estimation using a machine learning approach leveraging spectral and canopy height data acquired from unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), comparing different neural network architectures, optimizers, and activation functions. Field trials were carried out at two sites in Louisiana involving winter cover crops. The canopy height was estimated by subtracting the digital surface model taken at the time of peak growth of the cover crop from the data captured during a bare ground condition. When evaluated against the validation dataset, the neural network model facilitated with a Keras TensorFlow library with Adam optimizers and a sigmoid activation function performed the best, predicting cover crop biomass with an average of 96 g m−2 root mean squared error (RMSE). Other statistical metrics including the Pearson correlation and R2 also showed satisfactory conditions with this combination of hyperparameters. The observed cover crop biomass ranged from 290 to 1217 g m−2. The present study findings highlight the merit of comprehensive analysis of cover crop traits using UAV remote sensing and machine learning involving realistic underpinning biophysical mechanisms, as our approach captured both horizontal (vegetation indices) and vertical (canopy height) aspects of plant growth.
Co-Registration of Multi-Modal UAS Pushbroom Imaging Spectroscopy and RGB Imagery Using Optical Flow
Authors: Haynes Ryan S. , Lucieer Arko , Turner Darren , Cimoli Emiliano
Published: February 2025

Remote sensing from unoccupied aerial systems (UASs) has witnessed exponential growth. The increasing use of imaging spectroscopy sensors and RGB cameras on UAS platforms demands accurate, cross-comparable multi-sensor data. Inherent errors during image capture or processing can introduce spatial offsets, diminishing spatial accuracy and hindering cross-comparison and change detection analysis. To address this, we demonstrate the use of an optical flow algorithm, eFOLKI, for co-registering imagery from two pushbroom imaging spectroscopy sensors (VNIR and NIR/SWIR) to an RGB orthomosaic. Our study focuses on two ecologically diverse vegetative sites in Tasmania, Australia. Both sites are structurally complex, posing challenging datasets for co-registration algorithms with initial georectification spatial errors of up to 9 m planimetrically. The optical flow co-registration significantly improved the spatial accuracy of the imaging spectroscopy relative to the RGB orthomosaic. After co-registration, spatial alignment errors were greatly improved, with RMSE and MAE values of less than 13 cm for the higher-spatial-resolution dataset and less than 33 cm for the lower resolution dataset, corresponding to only 2–4 pixels in both cases. These results demonstrate the efficacy of optical flow co-registration in reducing spatial discrepancies between multi-sensor UAS datasets, enhancing accuracy and alignment to enable robust environmental monitoring.
The Impact of Foreign Direct Investment on Industrialization in China: A Spatial Panel Analysis
Authors: Yang Zhifeng , Anwar Sajid , Yang Yuqi
Published: February 2025

This study employs spatial econometric techniques to examine the heterogeneous effects of foreign direct investment (FDI) on industrialization across China’s four major regions—East, Central, West, and Northeast—using panel data from 31 provinces (1998–2016). Our findings reveal significant regional variations: FDI negatively impacts industrialization in the developed East, positively influences the less developed Northeast, and shows no significant effect in the Central and Western regions. To achieve balanced industrialization, policymakers should adopt spatially differentiated strategies. In the East, the focus should be on incentivizing high-value FDI in R&D and green technologies, while the Northeast could benefit from stronger economic partnerships within the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). For the Central and Western regions, prioritizing infrastructure investments linked to the BRI and fostering cross-regional innovation corridors could attract labor-intensive FDI and promote technology diffusion, addressing regional disparities. The study’s robust spatial analysis offers valuable guidance for policymakers in crafting region-specific strategies to leverage FDI for balanced economic growth.
Teacher Turnover Factors and School-Level Influences: A Meta-Analysis of the Literature
Authors: Farahmandpour Zohreh , Voelkel Robert
Published: February 2025

Teacher turnover remains a challenge in education. We reviewed 85 studies conducted in the United States and around the world to better understand teacher turnover causes. We initially screened 290 articles published from 1994 to 2024. The most known factors of teacher turnover were sought through analysis of last 30 years quantitative research. Our study addressed the reasons behind teacher turnover and how each factor affects teacher turnover. The analysis was conducted to quantitatively determine suggested factors of teacher turnover and retention. The Preferred Reporting Items for the Systematic Review of the Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) statement were used to follow literature review guidelines. The findings revealed the critical factors of teacher turnover and supported expanding a conceptual framework for teacher turnover causes in various contexts. The framework highlights the interactions among personal factors, workplace characteristic factors, and job characteristic factors. The findings highlight that leadership quality, teachers’ years of experience, student characteristics, school level, and teacher ethnicity are significant predictors of teacher turnover.
Solar Power Potential in Africa: A Case Study on Cost Reduction in a Malian Household Through Photovoltaic Solar Power and Lithium-Ion Battery Storage
Authors: Drave Madani , Mannerhagen Felix , Kersten Anton , Eckerle Richard , Abdul-Jabbar Thealfaqar A. , Abbas Furqan A. , Ban Branko , Xu Yu , Kuder Manuel , Weyh Thomas , Leijon Mats
Published: February 2025

This study explores the potential for PV solar power and battery storage to reduce energy costs in a typical Malian single-family household, highlighting significant cost savings and improved energy reliability. The high solar irradiance throughout the year makes solar power viable for household energy needs. However, most electricity is consumed at night due to air conditioning, with an annual consumption of 12,504 kWh. Cost models for solar power plants and battery energy storage systems, including installation, were developed. Cost parameters were reviewed using the latest literature, distinguishing between current and future cost trends, referred to as Case I and Case II, respectively. Additionally, a feed-in tariff of $0.00 and $0.04 per injected kWh of electricity into the AC mains was considered. The annual return in USD and the return on investment were considered as economic parameters. A small solar power plant with a peak power of up to 3 kW can achieve a high ROI between 70% and 100%. Due to reduced future cost prospects, this ROI could increase to 90% to 130%. However, such a plant can only reach a maximum self-sufficiency of about 40%, as most of the electricity is consumed during nights. A 4 kW power plant can achieve a self-sufficiency of about one-third for an ROI of 57% to 82%, costing approximately $1330 to $1760. When using battery energy storage, a self-sufficiency of 95% has been targeted. With battery storage, the maximum ROI varies from 22.5% to 32.0% with an investment cost of about $9590 to $13,139.
Stoichiometric Characteristics and Influencing Factors of Different Components of Karst Forest Plants at the Microtopography and Microhabitat Scale in Maolan National Nature Reserve, Guizhou, China
Authors: Wu Peng , Zhou Hua , Zhao Wenjun , Yang Guangneng , Cui Yingchun , Hou Yiju , Tan Chengjiang , Zhou Ting , Ding Fangjun
Published: February 2025

The main dominant tree species of karst forest at the microtopography and the microhabitat scale were taken as the research object in this study, and the stoichiometric characteristics of different components and their influencing factors were analyzed in order to reveal the survival strategy of karst forest plants in harsh habitats and their mechanism of adaptation to complex terrain. The results showed that the nutrient distribution among different components of the plant was closely related to its organizational structure and functional attributes. The microtopography had a significant effect on plant nutrient accumulation. However, the effect of the microhabitat on plant stoichiometric characteristics was relatively small. Different ecological factors had various regulatory effects on the stoichiometric characteristics of plant components, among which the specific leaf area (SLA) was the most critical biological factor affecting the stoichiometric characteristics of new leaves. Leaf dry matter content (LDMC) had the greatest effect on mature leaves, litter, and branches, and the trunks were mainly affected by plant species. There are synergistic tradeoffs between different plant components, and the interaction between each element mainly shows antagonistic and synergistic effects. Plants adapt to the changes in the karst microtopography and microhabitat by adjusting resource allocation and structural and functional traits. In the upslope, shady slope, and semi-shady slope regions and slopes above 25°, the plants adopted a conservative strategy. In depressions, on sunny slopes, and on flat land, as well as on slopes below 25°, the resource acquisition strategy was adopted. This is the result of the interaction of biological and abiotic factors, which reflects the resource acquisition and nutrient allocation strategies of plants in different habitats, and it is also an mechanism of adaptation to a complex and changeable environment.
NMR Characterization of Graphene Oxide-Doped Carbon Aerogel in a Liquid Environment
Authors: Nyul Dávid , Kéri Mónika , Novák Levente , Szabó Hanna , Csík Attila , Bányai István
Published: February 2025

In this study, we report the findings of a morphological analysis of a resorcinol–formaldehyde (RF)-based carbon aerogel (CA) and its graphene oxide (GO)-doped version (CA-GO), prepared for possible applications as an electrode material. Beyond some electron microscopic and N2 sorption investigations, we mostly used NMR cryoporometry and relaxometry to characterize the gels in a wet state, as they are usually applied. The precursor RF polymer aerogel was prepared both with and without GO and was subsequently carbonized into carbon aerogel. Modifying the polymer aerogel using GO resulted in a larger variety of C-O bonds in both polymer aerogels. However, the most important changes occurred in the morphology of the carbon aerogels. NMR relaxometry revealed the highly hydrophilic nature of the pore wall of the RF polymer aerogels, as demonstrated by their uniform wetting behavior. The carbonization resulted in a mostly hydrophobic pore wall decorated by some oxygen-containing spots and a macroporous system. Doping with GO after pyrolysis resulted in spherical pores in the CA and cylindrical pores in the CA-GO, which is potentially a more promising material for electrochemical use than CA.
The Association Between Promoter Tandem Repeat Polymorphism (pVNTR) and CYP2C9 Gene Expression in Human Liver Samples
Authors: Montalvo Abelardo D. , Gong Yan , Collins Joseph M. , Wang Danxin
Published: February 2025

CYP2C9 metabolizes approximately 20% of clinically administered drugs. Several single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of CYP2C9 (e.g., *2, *3, *8, and rs12777823) are used as biomarkers to predict CYP2C9 activity. However, a large proportion of variability in CYP2C9 expression remains unexplained. Background/Objectives: We previously identified a variable number tandem repeat (pVNTR) polymorphism in the CYP2C9 promoter. The short repeat (pVNTR-S) showed reduced transcriptional activity in reporter gene assays and was associated with decreased CYP2C9 mRNA expression. However, because pVNTR-S is in high linkage disequilibrium (LD) with CYP2C9*3 in the European population, whether pVNTR-S directly impacts CYP2C9 expression remains unclear. The objective of this study was to clarify the association between the pVNTR-S and CYP2C9 mRNA expression in human liver samples and to assess its impact on CYP2C9 expression independently of known CYP2C9 biomarkers. Methods: Gene expression was measured by real-time qPCR. SNPs and pVNTRs were genotyped using SNapShot assays and fragment analysis, respectively. Associations between CYP2C9 and the pVNTR-S or SNPs were analyzed using multiple linear regression. Results: Our results showed that pVNTR-S was associated with lower CYP2C9 expression (34% reduction, p-value = 0.032) in human liver samples (n = 247), while the known CYP2C9 biomarkers (CYP2C9*2, *3, *8, or rs12777823) were not. These results suggest that pVNTR-S reduces CYP2C9 expression independently of known biomarkers. Therefore, pVNTR-S may explain additional variability in CYP2C9 expression when present alone or in conjunction with other CYP2C9 alleles.
Patient Satisfaction with CAD/CAM 3D-Printed Complete Dentures: A Systematic Analysis of the Clinical Studies
Authors: Alotaibi Hanan N.
Published: February 2025

Objectives: This systematic review compares computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) 3D-printed complete dentures (CDs) with conventional ones in terms of patient satisfaction. Methods: The PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) reporting criteria for systematic reviews were followed in conducting this systematic review. The study question was “What are the patient satisfaction outcomes of 3D-printed versus conventional CDs in edentulous patients?” according to the population, intervention, comparison, and outcome (PICO) framework. A comprehensive electronic search was conducted across three databases (PubMed/Medline, Web of Science core collection, and Scopus; last update: 18 August 2024) to obtain clinical trials that compared traditional and 3D-printed CDs. The retrieved articles were screened, their data were extracted, and their quality was evaluated. Results: The initial search retrieved 803 publications; 12 were chosen for a thorough review, and 5 of them—4 randomized cross-over studies and 1 randomized three-parallel arm study—met the requirements for this systematic review. One study showed significant differences in five of nine patient denture satisfaction domains, positively favoring the conventional CDs. Two studies showed non-significant differences in satisfaction domains between the conventional and 3D-printed groups, except for aesthetics and pronunciation. On the contrary, the satisfaction scores in two other studies showed no significant difference between the conventional and 3D-printed denture groups. Conclusions: The analysis of the included studies and evidence gathered demonstrates that CAD/CAM 3D-printed CDs seem to be comparable with conventional CDs in terms of overall patient satisfaction; however, 3D-printed CDs generate some concerns related to aesthetics and speech.
Perception of Risk for Developing Severe Illness or Complications from COVID-19 in Brazil: Focus on Factors Linked to Socially Vulnerable Populations, 2020–2023
Authors: Rosa Rander Junior , Ferezin Letícia Perticarrara , de Campos Mônica Chiodi Toscano , Moura Heriederson Sávio Dias , Berra Thaís Zamboni , Ribeiro Natacha Martins , Teibo Titilade Kehinde Ayandeyi , Vinci André Luiz Teixeira , Ramos Antônio Carlos Vieira , Nascimento Murilo César do , Fuentealba Torres Miguel Ángel , Arcêncio Ricardo Alexandre
Published: February 2025

In this study, the aim was to comparatively examine the perception of risk for developing severe illness or complications due to COVID-19 among the general population and socially vulnerable populations in Brazil, focusing on uncovering the associated factors that disproportionately impacted people experiencing homelessness and slum dwellers. This study is part of the project “Social Thermometer—COVID-19 in Brazil”, which employed a hybrid approach, combining a national online survey with field research in state capitals and the Federal District. Data collection took place from August 2020 to October 2023, and the data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and logistic regression. A total of 5094 participants were included in this study, with 2363 from the general population and 2731 from the socially vulnerable population. Among the general population, the majority of participants were women, white individuals, those with higher incomes, formal employment, and higher education levels. Concerning the vulnerable population, most were men, Black individuals, those with lower incomes, unemployment, and lower education levels. It was observed that 87% of the general population perceived a risk of severe COVID-19, compared to 74% of the vulnerable population. Slum dwellers who received emergency aid (ORa = 1.39; 95% CI: 1.02–1.91), adhered to mask-wearing practices (ORa = 1.93; 95% CI: 1.39–2.66), used COVID-19-related medications (ORa = 2.13; 95% CI: 1.31–3. 64), and those with pre-existing conditions, such as high blood pressure (ORa = 1.86; 95% CI: 1.20–2.98), demonstrated a heightened perception of risk for severe COVID-19 complications. Among the homeless population, individuals who wore masks (ORa = 1.67; 95% CI: 1.26–2.20 and had been vaccinated (ORa = 1.44; 95% CI: 1.04–1.98) were also more likely to perceive a high risk. In conclusion, in this study, significant disparities are revealed in the perception of COVID-19 risk between the general and socially vulnerable populations in Brazil. Factors such as receiving emergency aid, adherence to mask-wearing, use of COVID-19-related medications, and pre-existing health conditions were associated with increased risk perception. Despite facing greater socioeconomic challenges, vulnerable groups, particularly those experiencing homelessness and slum dwellers, showed a lower perception of the risk for severe COVID-19 complications.
Babies Living Safe and Smokefree (BLiSS) Intervention Reduces Children’s Tobacco Smoke Exposure Directly and Indirectly by Improving Maternal Smokers’ Urge Management Skills and Exposure Protection Behaviors
Authors: Lepore Stephen J. , Collins Bradley N. , Egleston Brian L.
Published: February 2025

Children’s tobacco smoke exposure (CTSE) is a public health concern, particularly in low-income and minority communities. Interventions to reduce CTSE have had modest success, and so research must identify mechanisms to improve intervention efficacy. This study investigated mediators of CTSE reduction in an intervention designed to facilitate CTSE protection and maternal smoking abstinence. We analyzed data from the Babies Living Safe and Smokefree (BLiSS) trial, which evaluated the efficacy of a multilevel behavioral smoking intervention initiated in community clinics serving low-income mothers. We estimated direct and indirect effects to evaluate the role of two mediators of the intervention on CTSE at post-intervention follow-up: mothers’ skills in managing smoking urges and their protective behaviors to shield children from TSE. CTSE was measured using mothers’ reports and child cotinine (a CTSE biomarker). The BLiSS intervention was linked to statistically significant lower longitudinal reported CTSE directly and indirectly by increasing mothers’ urge management skills and CTSE protection behaviors (p-values < 0.05). The intervention was not directly linked to child cotinine. However, evidence of a statistically significant indirect effect (p-value = 0.028) suggested that the intervention reduced longitudinal child cotinine levels by increasing CTSE protection behaviors. Two non-program factors, nicotine dependence and total smokers in the home, also increased child cotinine and reported CTSE (p-values < 0.001). Interventions that improve maternal smokers’ urge management skills and CTSE protections can mitigate CTSE. In addition, it is essential to target barriers to CTSE reduction, such as nicotine dependence levels and the presence of other smokers in the home.
Machine Learning-Enabled Non-Invasive Screening of Tumor-Associated Circulating Transcripts for Early Detection of Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Han Jin , Park Sunyoung , Kim Li Ah , Chung Sung Hee , Kim Tae Il , Lee Jae Myun , Kim Jong Koo , Park Jae Jun , Lee Hyeyoung
Published: February 2025

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a major cause of cancer-related mortality, highlighting the need for accurate and non-invasive diagnostics. This study assessed the utility of tumor-associated circulating transcripts (TACTs) as biomarkers for CRC detection and integrated these markers into machine learning models to enhance diagnostic performance. We evaluated five models—Generalized Linear Model, Random Forest, Gradient Boosting Machine, Deep Neural Network (DNN), and AutoML—and identified the DNN model as optimal owing to its high sensitivity (85.7%) and specificity (90.9%) for CRC detection, particularly in early-stage cases. Our findings suggest that combining TACT markers with AI-based analysis provides a scalable and precise approach for CRC screening, offering significant advancements in non-invasive cancer diagnostics to improve early detection and patient outcomes.
Potential Broad-Spectrum Antiviral Agents: A Key Arsenal Against Newly Emerging and Reemerging Respiratory RNA Viruses
Authors: Luong Quynh Xuan Thi , Hoang Phuong Thi , Ho Phuong Thi , Ayun Ramadhani Qurrota , Lee Taek Kyun , Lee Sukchan
Published: February 2025

Respiratory viral infections present significant global health challenges, causing substantial morbidity and mortality, particularly among highly susceptible components of the population. The emergence of pandemics and epidemics, such as those caused by influenza viruses and coronaviruses, emphasizes the urgent need for effective antiviral therapeutics. In this review, we explore the potential of broad-spectrum antiviral agents targeting respiratory RNA viruses, including influenza viruses, coronaviruses, respiratory syncytial virus, human metapneumovirus, human parainfluenza viruses, and rhinoviruses. Various broad-spectrum direct-acting and host-targeting antivirals are discussed, including monoclonal antibodies targeting conserved regions of viral surface proteins, molecules interfering with host cell receptors or viral replication machinery, viral protease inhibitors, siRNA therapies, ribonuclease, and 3D8 scFv. Advancements in host-targeting approaches to reduce resistance and RNA-based therapeutics offer significant potential for combating respiratory viral threats. Despite challenges, broad-spectrum antiviral agents represent a crucial strategy, particularly when specific viral pathogens are unidentified or rapid intervention is essential, such as during pandemics or outbreaks.
Facile Synthesis of Pyridyl Rosamines as Potential Photosensitizers
Authors: Bakos Éva , Ágoston Henrietta , Ignácz Rebeka , Hunyadi Attila , Poór Miklós , Erostyák János , Kele Zoltán , Özvegy-Laczka Csilla , Mernyák Erzsébet
Published: February 2025

Rosamines represent one of the most promising groups of xanthene dyes. Their excellent photophysical properties allow their widespread application. Their use as photosensitizers in photodynamic therapy has recently gained considerable attention. Here, we report the facile, effective, microwave-assisted synthesis of rosamine dyes. Pyridylbenzaldehyde derivatives were reacted with 1,3-dialkylaminophenols or 8-hydroxyjulolidine in toluene without any additive. The resulting pyridyl rosamines were investigated for their cytotoxic effect against the A431 human epidermoid carcinoma cell line to estimate their potential as photosensitizers. The compounds displayed light-induced toxicity in the submicromolar or occasionally in the low nanomolar range. One of the julolidine-based derivatives exhibited a phototoxic index above 100, indicating an increase in light-induced cytotoxic efficacy of two orders of magnitude compared to its negligible dark toxicity. This compound is a particularly promising candidate for the development of novel pyridyl-rosamine-based photosensitizers for photodynamic therapy of skin cancer.
L-Lactate Administration Improved Synaptic Plasticity and Cognition in Early 3xTg-AD Mice
Authors: Wang Yaxin , Zhao Jinfeng , Zhao Li
Published: February 2025

Synaptic plasticity impairment and behavioral deficits constitute classical pathological hallmarks in early-stage Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Emerging evidence suggests these synaptic dysfunctions may stem from metabolic dysregulation, particularly impaired aerobic glycolysis. As a key product of astrocyte-mediated aerobic glycolysis, lactate serves dual roles as both an energy substrate and a signaling molecule, playing a critical regulatory role in synaptic plasticity and long-term memory formation. This study investigated whether exogenous L-lactate supplementation could ameliorate synaptic dysfunction and cognitive deficits in early-stage AD models. Our findings reveal significant reductions in hippocampal lactate levels in experimental AD mice. Systemic administration of L-lactate (200 mg/kg) effectively restored physiological lactate concentrations in both hippocampal tissue and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). Chronic L-lactate treatment significantly improved spatial learning and memory performance in behavioral assessments. Electrophysiological recordings demonstrated that either acute bath application of L-lactate (2 mM) to hippocampal slices or chronic intraperitoneal administration enhanced high-frequency stimulation (HFS)-induced long-term potentiation (LTP) magnitude in 3xTg-AD mice. Ultrastructural analysis revealed that L-lactate treatment enhanced synaptic density and improved morphological features of hippocampal synapses. At the molecular level, L-lactate administration upregulated synaptic marker synaptophysin (SYP) expression while downregulating activity-regulated cytoskeletal-associated protein (ARC) levels in AD mice. These multimodal findings demonstrate that exogenous L-lactate supplementation effectively restores synaptic plasticity and cognitive function in early-stage 3xTg-AD mice through concurrent improvements at behavioral, structural, and molecular levels.
Enhancement of Dendrobine Production by CRISPR/Act3.0-Mediated Transcriptional Activation of Multiple Endogenous Genes in Dendrobium Plants
Authors: Zhao Meili , Yang Zhenyu , Li Jian , Ming Feng , Kong Demin , Xu Haifeng , Wang Yu , Chen Peng , Duan Xiaojuan , Wang Meina , Wang Zhicai
Published: February 2025

Dendrobine, a significant medicinal compound, typically accumulates at low concentrations within several Dendrobium species, including Dendrobium nobile, Dendrobium catenatum, and Dendrobium moniliforme. As D. nobile and D. catenatum are established ingredients in traditional Chinese medicine and have been cultivated extensively, they present ideal plant chassis for upscaling dendrobine production for industrial and research applications. This study employed two approaches: the ectopic overexpression of seven genes through multigene stacking and the activation of multiple key endogenous genes in the dendrobine synthesis pathway using CRISPR/Act3.0 in either D. nobile or D. catenatum. These methods enhanced dendrobine production in transiently infiltrated leaves by 30.1% and transgenic plants by 35.6%. The study is the first to apply CRISPR/Act3.0 to Dendrobium orchids, enhancing dendrobine production, and thus laying a solid foundation for further improvements. CRISPR/Act3.0 is a recently developed technique that demonstrates high efficiency in model plant species, including rice, maize, and Arabidopsis. By combining CRISPR with transcriptional regulatory modules, activation of multiple endogenous genes in the metabolic pathway can be achieved. The successful application in orchid molecular breeding reveals promising potential for further exploration.
Prion-like Properties of Short Isoforms of Human Chromatin Modifier PHC3
Authors: Kachkin Daniil , Zelinsky Andrew A. , Romanova Nina V. , Kulichikhin Konstantin Y. , Zykin Pavel A. , Khorolskaya Julia I. , Deckner Zachery J. , Kajava Andrey V. , Rubel Aleksandr A. , Chernoff Yury O.
Published: February 2025

The formation of self-perpetuating protein aggregates such as amyloids is associated with various diseases and provides a basis for transmissible (infectious or heritable) protein isoforms (prions). Many human proteins involved in the regulation of transcription contain potentially amyloidogenic regions. Here, it is shown that short N-terminal isoforms of the human protein PHC3, a component of the chromatin-modifying complex PRC1 (Polycomb repressive complex 1), can form prion-like aggregates in yeast assays, exhibit amyloid properties in the E. coli-based C-DAG assay, and produce detergent-resistant aggregates when ectopically expressed in cultured human cells. Moreover, aggregates of short isoforms can sequester the full-length PHC3 protein, causing its accumulation in the cytosol instead of the nucleus. The introduction of an aggregating short PHC3 isoform alters the transcriptional profile of cultured human cells. It is proposed that the aggregation of short isoforms is involved in the feedback downregulation of PRC1 activity, leading to more open chromatin configuration.