bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Functionalized Separators Boosting Electrochemical Performances for Lithium Batteries
Authors: Fan Zixin , Chen Xiaoyu , Shi Jingjing , Nie Hui , Zhang Xiaoming , Zhou Xingping , Xie Xiaolin , Xue Zhigang
Published: February 2025

The growing demands for energy storage systems, electric vehicles, and portable electronics have significantly pushed forward the need for safe and reliable lithium batteries. It is essential to design functional separators with improved mechanical and electrochemical characteristics. This review covers the improved mechanical and electrochemical performances as well as the advancements made in the design of separators utilizing a variety of techniques. In terms of electrolyte wettability and adhesion of the coating materials, we provide an overview of the current status of research on coated separators, in situ modified separators, and grafting modified separators, and elaborate additional performance parameters of interest. The characteristics of inorganics coated separators, organic framework coated separators and inorganic–organic coated separators from different fabrication methods are compared. Future directions regarding new modified materials, manufacturing process, quantitative analysis of adhesion and so on are proposed toward next-generation advanced lithium batteries.

Graphical abstract
Improved Conceptual Design of eVTOL Aircraft: Considering Rotor–Rotor Interactional Effects
Authors: Kim Hojin , Lee Jinwhuy , Lee Donguk , Yee Kwanjung
Published: February 2025

Electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft equipped with a distributed electric propulsion (DEP) system have rotors positioned close to one another, leading to unsteady rotor–rotor interactions. These interactions are known to increase rotor aeroacoustic noise due to aerodynamic load fluctuations. Therefore, capturing the noise increase caused by rotor interactions is critical during the conceptual design phase of eVTOL aircraft. Low-fidelity rotor analysis models, such as blade element momentum theory (BEMT), which are commonly used in conventional conceptual design frameworks for their efficiency, fail to account for rotor–rotor interaction effects as they assume each rotor operates in isolation. In this study, a rotor aeroacoustic solver is integrated into the conceptual design framework, RISPECT+. Additionally, a new aerodynamic coupling module between two distinct aerodynamic solvers is developed to capture the noise increase from rotor–rotor interactions. In this module, rotor aerodynamic analysis results from the lower-fidelity model are corrected based on differences with the higher-fidelity model, enabling the capture of aerodynamic force unsteadiness and the resulting noise increase. Finally, this new framework is used to conduct sensitivity analysis and multi-objective design optimization, taking into account both gross weight and noise impact.
Enhancing Dynamic Control and Stability Assessment of Cessna 172 Aircraft with a PID Controller for New Pilot Trainees
Authors: Dagal Idriss , Erol Bilal , Harrison Ambe , Mbasso Wulfran Fendzi , Ibrahim AL-Wesabi
Published: February 2025

This research proposes a novel approach to enhance the dynamic control and stability assessment of the Cessna 172 aircraft for new pilot trainees by incorporating a proportional–integral–derivative (PID) controller. The PID controller is designed to improve the aircraft’s responsiveness to control inputs, reduce overshoot and settling time, and enhance overall stability. The study involves developing a mathematical model of the Cessna 172’s longitudinal dynamics, designing a PID controller, and conducting simulations to evaluate the performance of the PID-controlled aircraft. The evaluation focuses on key metrics such as stability, responsiveness, overshoot, and settling time. The results of the study demonstrate that the PID controller effectively enhances the dynamic control and stability of the Cessna 172, providing new pilot trainees with a safer and more efficient learning experience. The PID controller’s ability to mitigate the effects of pilot errors and disturbances contributes to improved flight performance and reduced risk of accidents. Future research directions include exploring the use of adaptive PID controllers, integrating PID controllers with other advanced flight control systems, and conducting flight tests to validate the performance of the PID-controlled Cessna 172 in real-world conditions.
Influence of hybrid air-cooled based strategy on thermal management system performance
Authors: Oyewola Olanrewaju M. , Idowu Emmanuel T. , Drabo Mebougna L.
Published: February 2025

Existing cooling strategies have shown reasonable performance enhancement in the design of air-cooled battery thermal management systems (BTMSs). However, some of these strategies are accompanied with drawbacks such as increase in pressure drop, poor flow uniformity and poor thermal homogeneity. This study adopts hybrid cooling strategy (HCS), through combination of existing air-cooling strategies to investigate the performance of Z–Type BTMSs. Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) method was used to evaluate the performance of the HCSs. The method was validated by comparing Z–Type BTMS numerical simulation results with experimental result from literature. Findings from the study revealed that each strategy provides distinct maximum temperature (

$${T}_{max}$$

T

max

), maximum temperature difference (

$${\Delta T}_{max}$$

Δ
T

max

), pressure drop (

$$\Delta P$$

Δ
P

) and pumping power (

$${P}_{p}$$

P
p

) performances for the same operational parameters. For designs with single enhancement, step-like design produced best thermal performance with

$${T}_{max}=331.16 K$$

T

max

=
331.16
K

and

$${P}_{p}=0.0841 W$$

P
p

=
0.0841
W

. A design with combination of two strategies, also produced reduction in

$${T}_{max}$$

T

max

and

$$\Delta {T}_{max}$$

Δ

T

max

by 4.25 K and 8.66 K, respectively, with 2.34 Pa increase in

$$\Delta P$$

Δ
P

, when compared with the Z–Type BTMS. Another design with single strategy produced reduction in

$${T}_{max}$$

T

max

and

$$\Delta {T}_{max}$$

Δ

T

max

by 4.42 K and 8.01 K, respectively with 3.52 Pa increase in

$$\Delta P$$

Δ
P

when compared with the same Z–Type BTMS. This performance shows 3.85% increase in

$${T}_{max}$$

T

max

and with 33.5% reduction in

$$\Delta P$$

Δ
P

. Several other designs also exhibited similar performance trend. Hence, this study concludes that adopting hybridization of air-cooled technique in BTMS is a promising technique with wide potential unexplored.
The instrumental value of advance directives: lesson learned from the COVID-19 pandemic for policymaking
Authors: Stock Elisabeth , Nickel Christian H. , Elger Bernice S. , Martani Andrea
Published: February 2025

Open conversations between patients and healthcare professionals (HCP) are required to evaluate which treatments are reasonable for the individual case, especially towards the end of life. Advance Care Planning (ACP), which often results in drafting an Advance Directive (AD), is a useful tool to help with decisions in these circumstances, but the rate of AD completion remains low. During the COVID-19 pandemic, ACP and AD gained popularity due to the alleged advantage that they could facilitate resource allocation, to the benefit of public health. In this article, which presents a theoretical reflection grounded in scientific evidence, we underline an even stronger ethical argument to support the implementation of AD in end-of-life care (eol-C) i.e. the instrumental value at the individual level. We show, with particular reference to lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic, that AD are instrumentally valuable in that they: (1) allow to thematise death; (2) ensure that overtreatment is avoided; (3) enable to better respect the wish of people to die at their preferred place; (4) help revive the “lost skill” of prognostication. We thus conclude that these arguments speak for promoting the territorially uniform implementation and accessibility of high-quality AD in care.
Surgical Factors Influencing Quality of Life After Reduction Mammaplasty in Patients with Breast Hypertrophy
Authors: Chotárová Martina , Mihalečko Ján , Mayer Alexander , Boháč Martin
Published: February 2025

Background

Breast hypertrophy causes a variety of physical and psychological problems for patients, both of which lead to decreased quality of life. This research aimed to compare patients’ quality of life before and after elective breast reduction surgery and to evaluate factors contributing to improved quality of life after surgery.

Methods

Fifty-one women aged 18–65 years were enrolled. The data about the quality of life were obtained retrospectively using a standardized Breast-Q questionnaire© and evaluated by the software evaluation tool QScore©.

Results

The mean age of participants was 42.33 ± 10.30 years. The overall quality of life improved significantly by 60%. On average, the respondents had 1,119.2 g of breast tissue removed per breast. Before the surgery, the average body mass index was 29.88, while after surgery it was 27.52. The average breast size was 6.41 before surgery and 3.3 (i.e., cup sizes C—D) after surgery. The average time of questionnaire return was 3.9 ± 2.99 years after surgery. The average time spent in the hospital was 6.02 ± 1.44 days. The complication rate was 23%. None of these factors influenced the patients' satisfaction with the outcome. However, the surgical technique chosen seemed to play a significant role in the satisfaction of patients with the reduction.

Conclusions

In our study, reduction mammaplasty improved the well-being of the patients in all aspects of the Breast-Q questionnaire. Of the observed factors, only the surgical technique appeared to affect satisfaction with long-term outcomes significantly.

Trial registration

Clinicaltrials.gov No.: NCT02769559.
Beyond the Four Seas: Chi Jiu Zhi Ji Tang Zhi Wu 赤鳩之集湯之屋 And The Roles of Ministers in Early China
Authors: Yang Huiyao
Published: February 2025

Chi jiu zhi ji Tang zhi wu (赤鳩之集湯之屋, “[When] Red Doves Gathered on Tang’s house”) is an excavated Chu manuscript that belongs to the Tsinghua University bamboo slips collection. The manuscript concerns several important early Chinese figures such as Tang and Yi Yin, while also featuring rich supernatural elements. Many studies have focused on “shamanism elements” depicted in the tale or defined the genre of the text as xiaoshuo. This article offers a reexamination of Chi jiu and the above assumptions by contextualizing the text within its original three-text manuscript. The article reveals how early compilers constructed a chronological sequence to frame an overarching narrative in a heterogeneous compilation, and further generates a unique narrative regarding the extraordinary status of Yi Yin the founding minister. In its conclusion, the paper draws attention to potential alternative narratives about the minister-ruler relationship in early China, and also places Chi jiu in the context of early compilation practices. Additionally, it considers possible parallels between the Chi jiu story and two of the Grimms’ Tales, viewing Chi jiu within folklore studies.
El Niño-driven flooding and mental health symptomology among adolescents and young adults in Peru
Authors: Cerna-Turoff Ilan , Kang Hyunseung , Keyes Katherine M.
Published: February 2025

Intensifying storms and inter-annual El Niño events may increase psychological stress and worsen mental health. This study examines the relationship between flood exposure and long-term mental health symptoms among adolescents and young people in Peru, the world’s most affected country by El Niño. We analyzed community and self-reported survey data from the Young Lives Study to contrast mental health in 2016 among youth who lived in communities that experienced or did not experience flooding between 2013 and 2016. We pre-processed data on 1344 individuals in 93 communities, using optimal full matching on Mahalanobis distance with a propensity score caliper, and estimated relative risks to mental health scores in the general population of young people and among gender-stratified groups via quasi-Poisson regression. Exposure to floods did not yield conclusive differences in mental health scores in this sample. Further evidence is needed on mental health patterns over time, the influence of exposure severity, and the impact of disaster relief on symptomology in mounting an effective global health response.
Clinical features of patients who are admitted under different criteria of the Irish Mental Health Act 2001: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: O’Mahony B.W. , Aylward P. , Cevikel P. , Hallahan B. , McDonald C.
Published: February 2025

Objectives:

To examine the criteria utilised for detaining individuals under the Irish Mental Health Act 2001 (MHA 2001) and their association with clinical features.

Methods:

Demographic and clinical data of 505 involuntary admissions under the MHA 2001 between 2013 and 2023 were attained. Data included criteria utilised for detention and renewal, sociodemographic and clinical features associated with these criteria, and the use of coercive practices, such as seclusion and restraint.

Results:

The majority of patients who were involuntarily admitted (61.4%), or had their admission order affirmed by tribunal (78.2%), were not judged to pose an immediate risk to themselves or others. Patients admitted under the “impaired judgement criterion” were less likely to be secluded (χ2 = 15.8, p < 0.001) or restrained (χ2 = 11.6, p < 0.01). Patients admitted under the “risk criterion” were younger (KW = 12.7, p = 0.02), and less likely to have a psychotic disorder (χ2 = 5.9, p = <0.001) or have a previous involuntary admission (χ2 = 7.7, p = 0.02). Patients who were subject to coercive care were younger (U = 12739, p < 0.001), more likely to be male (χ2 = 4.6, p = 0.03), and have prolonged involuntary admissions (U = 18412, p = 0.02).

Conclusions:

Currently, the majority of the involuntary care provided for patients under the MHA 2001 is not related to the risk criterion of causing immediate and serious harm to themselves or others, but rather to the criterion of impaired judgement. Patients admitted under the risk criterion are more often subjected to restrictive practices, but are less likely to suffer from psychosis, than those receiving involuntary care due to their impaired judgement.
Maladaptive mother–child interactions in mothers with remitted major depression are associated with blunted amygdala responses to child affective facial expressions
Authors: Hindi Attar Catherine , Ridder Neele , Stein Jenny , Kluczniok Dorothea , Dittrich Katja , Jaite Charlotte , Spengler Stephanie , Bödecker Katja , Poppinga Sina , Neukel Corinne , von Schönfeld Judith , Herpertz Sabine , Brunner Romuald , Meyer Kristina , Heinz Andreas , Bermpohl Felix
Published: February 2025

Background

Maternal depression is associated with difficulties in understanding and adequately responding to children’s emotional signals. Consequently, the interaction between mother and child is often disturbed. However, little is known about the neural correlates of these parenting difficulties. Motivated by increasing evidence of the amygdala’s important role in mediating maternal behavior, we investigated amygdala responses to child sad and happy faces in mothers with remitted major depression disorder (rMDD) relative to healthy controls.

Methods

We used the sensitivity subscale of the emotional availability scales and functional magnetic resonance imaging in 61 rMDD and 27 healthy mothers to examine the effect of maternal sensitivity on mothers’ amygdala responses to their children’s affective facial expressions.

Results

For mothers with rMDD relative to controls, we observed decreased maternal sensitivity when interacting with their child. They also showed reduced amygdala responses to child affective faces that were associated with lower maternal sensitivity. Connectivity analysis revealed that this blunted amygdala response in rMDD mothers was functionally correlated with reduced activation in higher-order medial prefrontal areas.

Conclusions

Our results contribute toward a better understanding of the detrimental effects of lifetime depression on maternal sensitivity and associated brain responses. By targeting region-specific neural activation patterns, these results are a first step toward improving the prediction, prevention, and treatment of depression-related negative effects on mother–child interaction.
Altered food liking in depression is driven by macronutrient composition
Authors: Thurn Lilly , Schulz Corinna , Borgmann Diba , Klaus Johannes , Ellinger Sabine , Walter Martin , Kroemer Nils B.
Published: February 2025

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is characterized by changes in appetite and body weight as well as blunted reward sensitivity (‘anhedonia’). However, it is not well understood which mechanisms are driving changes in reward sensitivity, specifically regarding food. Here, we used a sample of 117 participants (54 patients with MDD and 63 healthy control participants [HCPs]) who completed a food cue reactivity task with ratings of wanting and liking for 60 food and 20 non-food items. To evaluate which components of the food may contribute to altered ratings in depression, we tested for associations with macronutrients of the depicted items. In line with previous studies, we found reduced ratings of food wanting (p = .003) but not liking (p = .23) in patients with MDD compared to matched HCPs. Adding macronutrient composition to the models of wanting and liking substantially improved their fit (ps < .001). Compared to carbohydrate-rich foods, patients with MDD reported lower liking and wanting ratings for high-fat and high-protein foods. Moreover, patients with MDD showed weaker correlations in their preferences for carbohydrate- versus fat- or protein-rich foods (ps < .001), pointing to potential disturbances in metabolic signaling. To conclude, our results suggest that depression-related alterations in food reward ratings are more specific to the macronutrient composition of the food than previously anticipated, hinting at disturbances in gut–brain signaling. These findings raise the intriguing question of whether interventions targeting the gut could help normalize aberrant reward signals for foods rich in fat or protein.
Enhanced performance of a parallel manipulator with hybrid joint-space and task-space control approaches
Authors: Sincar Eyyup , Bayraktaroglu Zeki Y.
Published: February 2025

This paper introduces two enhanced control approaches to improve the performance of parallel manipulators, addressing their inherent nonlinear dynamics and complex structure. The first approach results in a hybrid control system in joint space, integrating acceleration-based control, sliding mode, and disturbance observer techniques. The control system is designed to correct tracking errors and compensate for generalized disturbances, thus improving accuracy in tracking reference positions. The second approach merges the joint-space and task-space formulations, implementing proportional-derivative controllers in task space to manage the end-effector positions while maintaining safe operational configurations. The stability of the proposed controllers is demonstrated through Lyapunov analysis, while their performance is validated through comprehensive simulations and real-time experiments.
The impact of collocational proficiency features on expert ratings of L2 English learners’ writing
Authors: Naismith Ben , Juffs Alan
Published: February 2025

Lexical proficiency is a multifaceted phenomenon that greatly impacts human judgments of writing quality. However, the importance of collocations’ contribution to proficiency assessment has received less attention than that of single words, despite collocations’ essential role in language production. This study, therefore, investigated how aspects of collocational proficiency affect the ratings that examiners give to English learner essays. To do so, collocational features related to sophistication and accuracy were manipulated in a set of argumentative essays. Examiners then rated the texts and provided rationales for their choices. The findings revealed that the use of lower-frequency words significantly and positively impacted the experts’ ratings. When used as part of collocations, such words then provided a small yet significant additional boost to ratings. Notably, there was no significant effect for increased collocational accuracy. These findings suggest that low-frequency words within collocations are particularly salient to examiners and deserving of pedagogic focus.
Behind the curtain lies the truth: a case of arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy mistaken for COVID-19 vaccine-associated myocarditis
Authors: Schaller Samantha , Perry Tanya , Knilans Timothy , Sublet-Smith Juli , Lang Sean , Miller Erin M. , Lorts Angela
Published: February 2025

A 15-year-old male presented with vasovagal syncope and troponin leak 4 days after his second COVID-19 vaccine. Based on initial diagnostic work-up, he was thought to have COVID-19 vaccine-associated myocarditis. His cardiac dysfunction persisted and further work-up including genetic evaluation and serial MRI studies later confirmed a diagnosis of arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy. This is a unique case of an incorrect diagnosis based on timing and context of vaccine-related myocarditis. Reports of mild and self-limited myocarditis post-COVID-19 vaccination may cause vaccine hesitancy among the public, and so case reports such as this one show the importance of discerning underlying conditions amongst rare COVID-19 vaccination complications.
Why Curriculum and Culturally Responsive Teaching is Important in the Education of Refugee Children: Some Suggestions from the Field
Authors: Karabacak Nermin , Üstündağ Kocakuşak Nurtaç , Akar Vural Ruken , Poyrazli Şenel
Published: February 2025

This study attempted to determine whether or not the educational curriculum is adjusted in state primary schools to meet the educational needs of Syrian refugee children, whether in-service training related to refugee children’s education was provided, and what the educational needs of refugee students were. The sample was composed of 294 primary school teachers and 372 Syrian refugee students in Türkiye. The data were analysed with Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) 24 and converted to percentage and frequency tables. The results indicated that the central curriculum and the teacher competencies were inadequate to meet the educational needs of the refugee children. It was also concluded that refugee students typically came from low socio-economic and educational backgrounds, however these students maintained a positive perspective toward education and were dedicated to fulfilling their student responsibilities such as attending school regularly and completing their homework. Some recommendations for future research and practices are presented.
Hotspots of Global Water Resource Changes and Their Causes
Authors: Lu Jiaxin , Kong Dongdong , Zhang Yongqiang , Xie Yuxuan , Gu Xihui , Gulakhmadov Aminjon
Published: February 2025

In recent decades, terrestrial water storage anomaly (TWSA) has experienced systematic shifts. Despite these observations, debates continue regarding the hotspots where terrestrial water storage changes dramatically and their causes. This study aims to address these controversies. Utilizing four TWSA products, this research analyzes TWSA's changing patterns and identifies hotspots of significant shifts from 1982 to 2019. The study employed the Bayesian Three‐Cornered Hat method to synthesize the best‐quality TWSA from original four TWSA products and the trends consistent method to identify regions with highly consistent trends. Subsequently, the elasticity coefficient method was used to reveal the causes of TWSA's dramatic changes in hotspots. Results show that TWSA has a declining trend over 66.1% global terrestrial areas during 1982–2019, with an average rate of −0.5 mm/y. The study identified six regions where marked changes in TWSA occurred, including Northern China, Southern Canada, Northern India, Central‐Southern Europe, Southwestern Africa, and Northeastern South America. Attribution analysis reveals that the leaf area index is the predominant factor affecting TWSA changes, dominating in 40.3% of global regions. Potential evapotranspiration (PET) follows closely, dominating in 39.8% of global regions. Meanwhile, only 13.1% and 6.8% of global regions are primarily influenced by precipitation and cropland density respectively. The dominant factor varies in different latitudes. Vegetation greening primarily controls TWSA changes in the high‐latitude regions of the Northern Hemisphere. This study identified hotspots of TWSA changes and investigated the causes of these variations. Those results will offer direction for prioritizing areas in future water resource management.
Spatial Distribution of Pc1/EMIC Waves Relative to the Nightside Ionospheric Footprint of the Plasmapause
Authors: Bozóki T. , Heilig B.
Published: February 2025

Pc1 pulsations cover the 0.2–5 Hz frequency range with electromagnetic ion cyclotron (EMIC) waves of magnetospheric origin being generally accepted as their most important source. In the ionosphere, the initially transverse EMIC waves can couple to the compressional mode and propagate long distances in the ionospheric waveguide. By studying Pc1 waves in the topside ionosphere, we can obtain information on the spatial distribution of both the transverse (incident EMIC) and compressional waves. In the present paper, we make use of a new Swarm L2 product developed for characterizing Pc1 waves to explore the spatial distribution of these waves relative to the midlatitude ionospheric trough (MIT), which corresponds to the ionospheric footprint of the plasmapause (PP) at night. It is shown that the vast majority of Pc1 events are located inside the plasmasphere and that the spatial distributions clearly follow changes in the MIT/PP position at all levels of geomagnetic activity. In the topside ionosphere, the number of transverse Pc1 (incident EMIC) waves rapidly decreases outside the PP, while their occurrence peak is located considerably equatorward (|ΔMlat| = −5° to −15°) of the PP footprint, that is, inside the plasmasphere. On the other hand, the compressional Pc1 waves can propagate in the ionosphere outside the PP toward the poles, while in the equatorial direction there is a secondary maximum in their spatial distribution at low magnetic latitudes. Our results suggest that mode conversion taking place in the inductive ionosphere plays a crucial role in the formation of the presented spatial distributions.
Perioperative tislelizumab plus chemotherapy for locally advanced gastroesophageal junction adenocarcinoma (NEOSUMMIT-03): a prospective, nonrandomized, open-label, phase 2 trial
Authors: Nie Run-Cong , Yuan Shu-Qiang , Ding Ya , Chen Yong-Ming , Li Yuan-Fang , Liang Cheng-Cai , Cai Mu-Yan , Chen Guo-Ming , Wang Wei , Sun Xiao-Wei , Weng De-Sheng , Li Dan-Dan , Zhao Jing-Jing , Chen Xiao-Jiang , Guan Yuan-Xiang , Liu Zhi-Min , Liang Yao , Luo Ma , Chi Jun , Qiu Hai-Bo , Zhou Zhi-Wei , Zhang Xiao-Shi , Chen Ying-Bo
Published: February 2025

This prospective, nonrandomized, open-label phase 2 trial (Chinese Clinical Trial Registry, ChiCTR2200061906) aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of adding the PD-1 antibody tislelizumab to perioperative chemotherapy in patients with locally advanced gastroesophageal junction adenocarcinoma (GEJA). This study enrolled patients with GEJA clinically staged as cT3-4aNanyM0 or cT1-2N+M0 from October 2022 to June 2023. Eligible patients were administered three preoperative and five postoperative 3-week cycles of treatment with PD-1 antibody tislelizumab plus SOX (S-1 and oxaliplatin) regimen. The primary endpoint was major pathological response (MPR) rate. Thirty-two patients were enrolled. The median age was 60 years (range: 28–74 years), and 53.1% (17/32) patients were Siewert III type. All patients received at least one cycle of assigned preoperative treatment, and 93.8% (30/32) patients completed three cycles of assigned preoperative tislelizumab and SOX. The R0 resection rate was 96.9% (31/32). MPR, pathological complete response (pCR) of primary tumors and ypT0N0 rates were 50.0% (16/32, 95% CI: 31.9–68.1%), 28.1% (9/32, 95% CI: 13.7–46.7%) and 25.0% (8/32, 95% CI: 11.5–43.4%), respectively. The surgical morbidity rate was 15.6% (5/32), and no 30-day mortality was observed. In the preoperative and postoperative treatment periods, the rate of treatment-related grade 3–4 adverse events was 31.2% (10/32). At the date of 7th Jan 2025, 8 (25.0%) patients occurred recurrence. Therefore, perioperative tislelizumab plus chemotherapy demonstrated significantly improved pathological regression and might be a promising option for patients with locally advanced resectable GEJA.
Utilisation of subsidised genetic and genomic testing in a publicly funded healthcare system 2014–2023
Authors: Schilling Chris , Sjaaf Florencia , Goranitis Ilias , Dalziel Kim , Martyn Melissa , Stark Zornitza , Gaff Clara
Published: February 2025

The Australian government subsidises medical services, including several genetic and genomic tests, through a federal funding scheme. We explore trends and variation in the utilisation of the publicly funded genetic and genomic tests over the last decade. We make use of administrative data of the listed genetic and genomic tests from financial year 2014 to 2023. In 2023, 102 genetic and nine genomic tests were publicly subsidised across 65 distinct clinical test indications, up from 32 items across 20 distinct tests in 2014. Service volumes have increased by 50% from 250,881 to 376,140, and benefits paid have risen by 83% from AU$42.0 million to AU$76.8 million. This accounts for 0.3% of the total AU$27.6 billion expenditure on publicly subsidised medical services in 2023. Somatic cancer, rare disease, and reproductive tests are the most prevalent tests. Women of childbearing ages used more services than men, however in nonchildbearing ages, men used more services than women. The current usage of publicly funded genetic and genomic testing within Australia is relatively modest, underscoring challenges in integration to routine clinical practice. However, the recent rapid expansion of subsidised items indicates that investments into genomics research are beginning to yield the evidence necessary to secure public funding for these services.
The oncolytic adenovirus TILT-123 with pembrolizumab in platinum resistant or refractory ovarian cancer: the phase 1a PROTA trial
Authors: Block Matthew Stephen , Clubb James Hugo Armstrong , Mäenpää Johanna , Pakola Santeri , Quixabeira Dafne Carolina Alves , Kudling Tatiana , Jirovec Elise , Haybout Lyna , van der Heijden Mirte , Zahraoui Sanae , Grönberg-Vähä-Koskela Susanna , Raatikainen Sini , Arias Victor , Basnet Saru , Ojala Nea , Pellinen Teijo , Hemmes Annabrita , Välimäki Katja , Pasanen Annukka , Alanko Tuomo , Adamo Daniel , Ramadan Susan , Sormunen Jorma , Kononen Juha , Cohen Julia Wanda , Chisamore Michael Jon , Goldfinch John , Sorsa Suvi , Havunen Riikka , Kistler Claudia , Kalervo Aino , Cervera-Carrascon Víctor , dos Santos João Manuel , Hemminki Akseli
Published: February 2025

Immune checkpoint inhibitors have demonstrated modest efficacy as a monotherapy in ovarian cancer. Originally developed to improve efficacy of T-cell therapies such as immune checkpoint inhibitors and adoptive cell transfer, TILT-123 (Ad5/3-E2F-D24-hTNFα-IRES-hIL-2) is a serotype chimeric oncolytic adenovirus encoding tumor necrosis factor alpha and interleukin-2. Here we report results from phase 1a of PROTA, a single-arm, multicentre dose escalation trial with TILT-123 and pembrolizumab in female patients with platinum resistant or refractory ovarian cancer (NCT05271318). The primary endpoint was safety. Secondary endpoints included efficacy, tolerability, virus persistence and anti-viral immunity. Patients (n = 15) received intravenous and intraperitoneal and/or intratumoral injections of TILT-123 as well as intravenous pembrolizumab. Treatment was well tolerated, and no dose-limiting toxicities were observed. The most frequent adverse events were fever (40%), fatigue (40%) and nausea (40%). Disease control was achieved in 64% of evaluable patients (9/14). Median progression-free survival and overall survival were 98 and 190 days respectively. Clinical responses were associated with higher serum anti-adenovirus neutralizing antibody titer at baseline and post-treatment. The phase 1b investigating TILT-123, pembrolizumab and PEGylated liposomal doxorubicin in a similar patient population is underway.
Molecular characterization of Pseudomyxoma peritonei with single-cell and bulk RNA sequencing
Authors: Ha Ye Jin , Park Seong-Hwan , Kim Seon-Kyu , Tak Ka Hee , Kim Jeong-Hwan , Kim Chan Wook , Yoon Yong Sik , Kim Seon-Young , Lee Jong Lyul
Published: February 2025

Pseudomyxoma peritonei (PMP), a rare condition characterized by mucinous ascites in the peritoneal cavity, often leads to a poor prognosis. However, omics profiling of this disease remains significantly underexplored. Here, we present single-cell transcriptomic profiling of five PMP cases to identify cell type-specific gene features associated with PMP pathogenesis. Additionally, we provide bulk RNA-seq datasets from two independent cohorts: 19 fresh frozen tissue samples (12 PMPs) and 34 formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) samples (25 PMPs). We also offer protein expression data from a tissue microarray (TMA) analysis of 90 samples (45 PMPs). Our single-cell and bulk transcriptomic profiles, along with TMA verifications, reveal the cellular diversity of PMP, highlighting the coexistence of epithelial and mesenchymal characteristics within PMP cells. These datasets enhance our understanding of PMP pathogenesis and provide a valuable resource for uncovering the intricate molecular landscape of PMP, with the potential to improve clinical utility through further research.
Taphonomic variation in vascular remains from Mesozoic non-avian dinosaurs
Authors: Schweitzer M. H. , Zheng W. , Dickinson E. , Scannella J. , Hartstone-Rose A. , Sjövall P. , Lindgren J.
Published: February 2025

The identity and source of flexible, semi-transparent, vascular-like components recovered from non-avian dinosaur bone are debated, because: (1) such preservation is not predicted by degradation models; (2) taphonomic mechanisms for this type of preservation are not well defined; and (3) although support for molecular endogeneity has been demonstrated in select specimens, comparable data are lacking on a broader scale. Here, we use a suite of micromorphological and molecular techniques to examine vessel-like material recovered from the skeletal remains of six non-avian dinosaurs, representing different taxa, depositional environments and geological ages, and we compare the data obtained from our analyses against vessels liberated from extant ostrich bone. The results of this in-depth, multi-faceted study present strong support for endogeneity of the fossil-derived vessels, although we also detect evidence of invasive microorganisms.
A modified energy management strategy for PV/diesel hybrid system to reduce diesel consumption based on artificial protozoa optimizer
Authors: Mohamed Rania G. , Hassan Amal A. , Abdel Aleem Shady H. E.
Published: February 2025

The photovoltaic (PV)/diesel hybrid system (PV/D-HS) combines solar PV panels with a diesel generator (DG) to meet energy demands, especially in industrial operations. This study introduces an improved energy management strategy designed to optimize the performance of PV/D-HS by reducing diesel consumption, increasing solar energy utilization, and minimizing environmental impact. The strategy dynamically manages power distribution between the PV panels and the DG, adapting to changing solar conditions and energy demands. Doing so reduces the system’s reliance on diesel, improves operational efficiency, and supports the integration of cleaner energy sources. Simulation results show significant improvements over traditional approaches: carbon emissions decreased from 62 kg/day with a standalone diesel generator to 38 kg/day, representing a 38% reduction. The solar energy fraction (SEF) increases from 12 to 35%, a 23% improvement in solar energy utilization. These results demonstrate the potential of the proposed strategy to enhance sustainability by lowering greenhouse gas emissions, reducing dependence on fossil fuels, and advancing global efforts to combat climate change. In addition to environmental benefits, the approach reduces operational costs and improves the system’s reliability, making it a practical solution for industrial energy needs.
Impact of acute respiratory distress syndrome on outcome in critically ill patients with liver cirrhosis
Authors: Tariparast Pischtaz Adel , Roedl Kevin , Horvatits Thomas , Drolz Andreas , Kluge Stefan , Fuhrmann Valentin
Published: February 2025

We investigated the occurrence and outcome of respiratory failure and ARDS in critically ill patients with liver cirrhosis. This is a retrospective analysis of patients with liver cirrhosis at an ICU during an 8-Year period. An assessment of acute on chronic liver failure as well as the presence and grade of ARDS within the first 72 h of admission to the ICU was performed. A total of 735 patients during the study period. Median age was 58 (50–69) years and 61% (n = 447) were male. 57% (n = 421) of the patients received mechanical ventilation (MV). Liver specific as well as ICU scores on admission were significantly higher in patients with MV. Necessity of vasopressor support (86%vs.25%, p < 0.001) and RRT (50%vs.11%, p < 0.001) was more frequent in patients with MV. The incidence of ARDS within the first 72 h of admission was 8% (n = 61). We observed a 28-day mortality or liver transplantation rate of 54% (n = 196) and 66% (n = 66%) in patients with MV and ARDS, respectively. After 90-days 63% (n = 226) with MV and 70% (n = 43) with ARDS were dead or received liver transplantation. ARDS is a prognostic factor for mortality in patients with liver cirrhosis admitted to the ICU. One out of ten critically ill cirrhotic patients develop ARDS within 72 h after admission. Although mortality rates are high initially critical care therapy should not be withheld and must be reevaluated regularly.
Environmental selection underlies distinct distribution patterns of closely related European evening primroses
Authors: Woźniak-Chodacka Monika , Kocurek Maciej , Pilarska Maria , Niewiadomska Ewa
Published: February 2025

Understanding of species distribution is becoming a key concern in biogeography, ecology and evolution when to consider the ongoing climate change. This study investigates the distribution patterns of closely related Oenothera species focusing on their adaptations to environmental conditions through morphological traits and photosynthetic adjustments. We documented the three distinct distribution patterns in Europe among the studied species. Oenothera rubricaulis, found at higher latitudes, has the smallest flowers and the highest chlorophyll content, accompanied by anthocyanin accumulation, which maximizes light acquisition under low light conditions. Oenothera suaveolens, observed at lower latitudes, displays the largest flowers, a pure green phenotype, the highest stomatal conductance, and a light avoidance strategy, reflected by rapid photoinhibition and hyponasty. Oenothera biennis, with the widest distribution, exhibits an intermediate phenotype, suggesting high plasticity and adaptability of its photosynthetic apparatus. Given the close relationship of these species, our findings suggest that environmental selection following hybridization events has been crucial for their establishment in Europe.
Assessment of priorities, quality, and inclusivity of digital therapeutics trials in China
Authors: Wang Ziming , Xia Xinxin , Lu Weijia , Ye Yuguo , Xu Jin
Published: February 2025

Digital therapeutics (DTx) are software-driven solutions for prevention, treatment, and management of medical conditions. Despite a pro-DTx momentum in China, global DTx trial assessments overlooked the country. We identified 756 DTx trials in China and analyzed their characteristics and quality parameters. Over 70% were funded by governments, hospitals, and universities, with tertiary hospitals in eastern China leading most trials. 44.8% used automated DTx, with 39.2% DTx-guided. Most trials focused on management (52.5%) and treatment (38.1%), with few on prevention (9.4%). Mental, behavioral, or neurodevelopmental disorders represented the leading condition category of focus. Recent declines in median sample size, median duration, and mean number of sites were noted. Only 18% of trials were at low overall risk of bias. While recognizing the rapid development of DTx trials in China, we call for better trial design and methodological rigor, prioritization of preventive and primary care, wider condition category scope, and higher inclusivity.
Multiple large language models versus experienced physicians in diagnosing challenging cases with gastrointestinal symptoms
Authors: Yang Xintian , Li Tongxin , Wang Han , Zhang Rongchun , Ni Zhi , Liu Na , Zhai Huihong , Zhao Jianghai , Meng Fandong , Zhou Zhongyin , Tang Shanhong , Wang Limei , Wang Xiangping , Luo Hui , Ren Gui , Zhang Linhui , Kang Xiaoyu , Wang Jun , Bo Ning , Yang Xiaoning , Xue Weijie , Zhang Xiaoyin , Chen Ning , Guo Rui , Li Baiwen , Li Yajun , Liu Yaling , Zhang Tiantian , Liang Shuhui , Lv Yong , Nie Yongzhan , Fan Daiming , Zhao Lina , Pan Yanglin
Published: February 2025

Faced with challenging cases, doctors are increasingly seeking diagnostic advice from large language models (LLMs). This study aims to compare the ability of LLMs and human physicians to diagnose challenging cases. An offline dataset of 67 challenging cases with primary gastrointestinal symptoms was used to solicit possible diagnoses from seven LLMs and 22 gastroenterologists. The diagnoses by Claude 3.5 Sonnet covered the highest proportion (95% confidence interval [CI]) of instructive diagnoses (76.1%, [70.6%–80.9%]), significantly surpassing all the gastroenterologists (p < 0.05 for all). Claude 3.5 Sonnet achieved a significantly higher coverage rate (95% CI) than that of the gastroenterologists using search engines or other traditional resource (76.1% [70.6%–80.9%] vs. 45.5% [40.7%-50.4%], p < 0.001). The study highlights that advanced LLMs may assist gastroenterologists with instructive, time-saving, and cost-effective diagnostic scopes in challenging cases.
Microbial metabolites tune amygdala neuronal hyperexcitability and anxiety-linked behaviors
Authors: Yu Weonjin , Xiao Yixin , Jayaraman Anusha , Yen Yi-Chun , Lee Hae Ung , Pettersson Sven , Je H Shawn
Published: February 2025

Changes in gut microbiota composition have been linked to anxiety behavior in rodents. However, the underlying neural circuitry linking microbiota and their metabolites to anxiety behavior remains unknown. Using male C57BL/6J germ-free (GF) mice, not exposed to live microbes, increased anxiety-related behavior was observed correlating with a significant increase in the immediate early c-Fos gene in the basolateral amygdala (BLA). This phenomenon coincided with increased intrinsic excitability and spontaneous synaptic activity of BLA pyramidal neurons associated with reduced small conductance calcium-activated potassium (SK) channel currents. Importantly, colonizing GF mice to live microbes or the microbial-derived metabolite indoles reverted SK channel activities in BLA pyramidal neurons and reduced the anxiety behavioral phenotype. These results are consistent with a molecular mechanism by which microbes and or microbial-derived indoles, regulate functional changes in the BLA neurons. Moreover, this microbe metabolite regulation of anxiety links these results to ancient evolutionarily conserved defense mechanisms associated with anxiety-related behaviors in mammals.
Non-covalent interactions in solid p-C6F4Cl2 and C6F5Cl
Authors: Bear Joseph C. , Rosu-Finsen Alexander , Cockcroft Jeremy K.
Published: February 2025

A solid-state study of the weak non-covalent interactions in p-C6F4Cl2 and C6F5Cl reveals complex phase behaviour in the latter. The disordered form II of C6F5Cl is isomorphous to the crystal structure of p-C6F4Cl2.
Formation of C5H6 isomers: a combination of experimental and computational investigation
Authors: Zhang Yi-Fan , Li Wang , Wang Chang-Yang , Huang Chen , Bian Hui-Ting , Zhao Long
Published: February 2025

The gas-phase reaction of linear reactants, propargyl and ethylene, leads to the formation of the simplest 5-membered carbon closed-shell molecule, 1,3-cyclopentadiene. Background image: NASA, ESA, Hubble Heritage Team via CC BY 4.0 licence.
Structure, stability and electronic properties of two-dimensional monolayer noble metals with triangular lattices: Cu, Ag, and Au
Authors: Wang Zhefeng , Chen Kai , Xu Youmin , Wang Zengjie , Kong Lingbao , Wang Songyou , Su Wan-Sheng
Published: February 2025

First-principles calculations were performed to investigate the structure, stability, and electronic properties of two-dimensional noble metal monolayers, including Cu, Ag, and Au, inspired by the recent synthesis of a two-dimensional gold monolayer.
The hypoglycemic effect of mulberry (Morus atropurpurea) fruit lacking fructose and glucose by regulation of the gut microbiota
Authors: Wang Ya-Ting , Wu Hong , Wu Ji-Jun , Yu Yuan-Shan , Wen Jing , Zou Bo , Li Lu , Peng Jian , Cheng Li-Na , Bu Zhi-Bin , Xu Yu-Juan , Hu Teng-Gen
Published: February 2025

Mulberries are known to be rich in hypoglycemic active substances such as anthocyanins and dietary fiber, which primarily aid in regulating gut microbiota.
A sample-to-answer digital microfluidic multiplexed PCR system for syndromic pathogen detection in respiratory tract infection
Authors: Bai Hao , Hu Jie , Liu Tangyuheng , Wan Liang , Dong Cheng , Luo Dasheng , Li Fei , Yuan Zhanxin , Tang Yunmei , Chen Tianlan , Wang Shan , Gou Hongna , Zhou Yongzhao , Ying Binwu , Huang Jin , Hu Wenchuang (Walter)
Published: February 2025

We report a high-performance, fully automated digital microfluidic PCR system for point-of-care testing of multiple pathogens in just 80 min.
Densely atomic Co–Nx moiety-coupled hierarchical-carbon-microspheres for efficient oxygen electrodes in bioadaptable Mg–air batteries
Authors: Liu Yanru , Dai Taiqiang , Wang Jia , Zheng Lirong , Fu Xiaogang
Published: February 2025

Mesoporous carbon spheres with densely and accessible atomic Co–Nx sites are employed as efficient air electrodes for neutral Mg–air batteries.
Salt-flower-shaped FeP–CoP catalyst for highly efficient bifunctional hydrogen and oxygen evolution
Authors: Xu Ze-Feng , Xue Jia , Li Lei-Lei , Yin Xing-Liang , Chen Chuan-Wu , Jing Ya-Nan , Liu Da-Qiang
Published: February 2025

Developing efficient, stable, and cost-effective electrocatalysts is essential for advancing sustainable water splitting and renewable energy technologies.
A tragacanth gum-infused graphitic carbon nitride/cellulose nanohydrogel for controlled lornoxicam release kinetics
Authors: Nawaz Aamir , Taj Muhammad Babar , Khan Muhammad Imran , Beagan Abeer M. , Maria Antoniadou , Shanableh Abdallah
Published: February 2025

Hydrogel biomaterials are increasingly utilized as drug delivery systems due to their unique properties.
o-Quinone methides in natural product synthesis: an update
Authors: Gao Li-Na , Zheng Kuan , Chen Hui-Yu , Gao Yu-Ning , Li Zhao-Zhao , He Chang , Huang Sha-Hua , Hong Ran , Bian Ming , Liu Zhen-Jiang
Published: February 2025

In recent years, ortho-quinone methides have emerged as indispensable reactive species for enhancing synthetic efficiency in accessing various bioactive natural products.
Enhanced small intestinal organoid-derived epithelial cell adhesion and growth in organ-on-a-chip devices
Authors: Quacquarelli Federica , Davila Sergio , Taelman Jasin , Guiu Jordi , Antfolk Maria
Published: February 2025

PDMS functionalization and adhesion protein coatings in combination with different medium formulations was assessed for the adhesion and growth of intestinal epithelial cells.