bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Attentional Processing Biases in Young People With Binging and Purging Behavior
Authors: Freccero Aglaia , Burmester Victoria , Rodrigues Rachel , Gallucci Alessia , Nicholls Dasha , Simplicio Martina Di
Published: February 2025

Objective

Binging and purging are transdiagnostic features of eating disorders (EDs). Attentional biases (ABs) toward food and body shape cues and negative affect (NA) are associated with ED psychopathology. These ABs might also be present in people with subthreshold ED not meeting full diagnostic criteria. We investigated ABs to food and body shape cues and the interaction between ABs and NA in young people with binge/purge behavior (B/P group) and healthy controls (HC group). Our B/P sample consisted of individuals with threshold and subthreshold ED, including participants with BN, AN‐R, and AN‐B/P.

Method

We conducted two studies. Study 1 recruited n = 54 HC and n = 53 B/P participants aged 16–25, and Study 2 recruited n = 73 HC and n = 72 B/P participants. In Study 1, ABs toward food and body shape cues were compared between B/P versus HC participants using a pictorial dot‐probe task. In Study 2, ABs were compared between B/P versus HC participants after NA induction using the Cyberball social exclusion task. Indexes of attentional engagement and disengagement were computed.

Results

There was a main effect of cue type on attentional engagement at 0.2 s (p = 0.006,  = 0.075) and 2 s (p = 0.040,  = 0.043), and attentional disengagement at 2 s (p = 0.006,  = 0.077) in Study 1. Findings were not replicated following NA induction in Study 2. No main effect of group or group × cue type interaction was found.

Discussion:

Our results disagree with previous research supporting the importance of ABs toward food and body shape cues in young people with threshold and subthreshold EDs and suggest these might not constitute a relevant target in the treatment of ED behavior. However, due to a heterogeneous approach to measuring ABs and multiple types of AB being described in EDs, further research is needed to clarify whether ABs map onto transdiagnostic models of behavioral dysregulation.
Lower Retinal Arteriolar Density Is Associated With Higher Cerebral Small Vessel Disease Burden: An Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography Study
Authors: Cao Le , Wang Hang , Hao Jinkui , Kwapong William Robert , Xiong Zhouwei , Wang Ruilin , Ye Chen , Zhao Yitian , Wu Bo , Tao Wendan
Published: February 2025

Introduction

It is suggested that cerebral small vessel disease (SVD) plays a role in strokes and dementia. Retinal microvasculature imaged by optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) is suggested to be associated with cerebral microvessels. We measured the density of the retinal arterioles and venules on the superficial vascular complex (SVC) of OCTA images and investigated associations with SVD markers in older adults.

Methods

Participants underwent cerebral magnetic resonance imaging and OCTA imaging. An external algorithm (OCTA‐Net) was used to segment the retinal vessels into arterioles and venules. SVD indicators [lacunes, white matter hyperintensity (WMH), perivascular spaces (PVS) and cerebral microbleeds (CMBs)] were determined according to the STandards for ReportIng Vascular changes on nEuroimaging (STRIVE)

Results

246 older adults (mean age = 58.84 ± 7.00 years; 38.21 % males) were included in our data analysis. After adjusting for covariates, lower retinal arteriole densities correlated with higher periventricular WMH (p = 0.025) and PVS in the basal ganglia (p = 0.027). Lower retinal venule density correlated with higher deep WMH burden (p = 0.014). Lower arteriolar density was associated with increased SVD burden (p = 0.035). Arteriolar complex branching was associated with periventricular WMH (p = 0.020) while venular complex branching was associated with deep WMH (p = 0.041).

Conclusion

Retinal vascular changes may reflect cerebral vascular changes as evidenced by OCTA‐derived metrics.
Mechanistic Understanding of the Solid Product in O2‐Involved Li‐CO2 Batteries
Authors: Yan Aijing , Xiao Xu , Zhang Zhuojun , Zhao Zehui , Hao Yasen , Qiu Tenghui , Tan Peng
Published: February 2025

Lithium carbonate, a solid discharge product, is closely associated with the discharge performance of oxygen‐involved lithium‐carbon dioxide batteries that exacerbates concentration polarization and electrode passivation. Although numerous strategies to enhance battery performance have progressed, the mechanistic understanding of lithium carbonate on oxygen‐involved lithium‐carbon dioxide batteries is still confusing. Herein, the effects of lithium carbonate over past decades are traced, including the lithium carbonate product morphology, reaction pathway, formation intermediate, and growth mechanism. The lithium carbonate nucleation and growth are crucial factors that influence battery performance. This perspective proposes a brand‐new growth mechanism coupling of solution and surface mechanisms based on experimental results and theories, which extends the growth space of the product and enhances the discharge capacity. Developing advanced technologies are expected to reveal complex lithium carbonate formation pathways and spearhead advanced oxygen‐involved lithium‐carbon dioxide batteries.
Elucidating the Interplay Between Structure and Electrochemical Behavior in Lignin‐Based Polymer Electrolytes for Potassium Batteries
Authors: Pascuzzi Giuseppe , Trano Sabrina , Francia Carlotta , Turri Stefano , Bella Federico , Griffini Gianmarco
Published: February 2025

Potassium batteries are very appealing for stationary applications and domestic use, offering a promising alternative to lithium‐ion systems. To improve their safety and environmental impact, gel polymer electrolytes (GPEs) based on bioderived materials can be employed. In this work, a series of biobased membranes are developed by crosslinking pre‐oxidized Kraft lignin as bio‐based component and poly(ethylene glycol) diglycidyl ether (PEGDGE) as functional linker with 200, 500, and 1000 g mol−1 molecular weight. The influence of PEGDGE chain length on the physicochemical properties and electrochemical performance of GPEs for potassium batteries is investigated. These membranes exhibit thermal stability above 240°C and tunable glass transition temperatures depending on the PEGDGE molecular weight. Their mechanical properties are determined by rheology measurements in dry and swollen states, evidencing a slight decrease of elastic modulus (G′) by increasing PEGDGE chain length. An approximately one‐order‐of‐magnitude lower G′ value is observed in swollen membranes versus their dry counterpart. Upon successful activation of the lignin‐based membranes by swelling in the liquid electrolyte embedding potassium salts, these GPEs are tested in potassium metal cell prototypes. These systems exhibit ionic conductivity of ~10−3 S cm−1 at ambient temperature. Interestingly, battery devices equipped with the GPE based on PEGDGE 1000 g mol−1 withstand current densities as high as 1.5 mA cm−2 during operation. Moreover, the same devices reach specific capacities of 130 mAh g‒1 at 0.05 A g−1 in the first 100 cycles and long‐term operation for over 2500 cycles, representing outstanding achievements as bio‐sourced systems for potassium batteries.
Helicobacter pylori CagA elevates FTO to induce gastric cancer progression via a “hit‐and‐run” paradigm
Authors: He Bing , Hu Yiyang , Wu Yuyun , Wang Chao , Gao Limin , Gong Chunli , Li Zhibin , Gao Nannan , Yang Huan , Xiao Yufeng , Yang Shiming
Published: February 2025

Background

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection contributes significantly to gastric cancer (GC) progression. The intrinsic mechanisms of H. pylori‐host interactions and their role in promoting GC progression need further investigation. In this study, we explored the potential role of fat mass and obesity‐associated protein (FTO) in mediating Cytotoxin‐associated gene A (CagA)‐induced GC progression.

Methods

The effects of H. pylori infection on N6‐methyladenosine (m6A) modification were evaluated in both human samples and GC cell lines. The function of FTO in the progression of GC was elucidated through in vitro and in vivo studies. A series of techniques, including methylated RNA immunoprecipitation sequencing, RNA sequencing, RNA binding protein immunoprecipitation, and chromatin immunoprecipitation assays, were utilized to investigate the mechanism by which FTO mediates the capacity of cagA‐positive H. pylori to promote GC progression. Furthermore, the therapeutic potential of the FTO inhibitor meclofenamic acid (MA) in impeding GC progression was evaluated across GC cells, animal models, and human GC organoids.

Results

Infection with cagA‐positive H. pylori upregulated the expression of FTO, which was essential for CagA‐mediated GC metastasis and significantly associated with a poor prognosis in GC patients. Mechanistically, CagA delivered by H. pylori enhanced FTO transcription via Jun proto‐oncogene. Elevated FTO induced demethylation of m6A and inhibited the degradation of heparin‐binding EGF‐like growth factor (HBEGF), thereby facilitating the epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT) process in GC cells. Interestingly, eradication of H. pylori did not fully reverse the increases in FTO and HBEGF levels induced by cagA‐positive H. pylori. However, treatment with a combination of antibiotics and MA substantially inhibited cagA‐positive H. pylori‐induced EMT and prevented GC metastasis.

Conclusion

Our study revealed that FTO mediates the “hit‐and‐run” mechanism of CagA‐induced GC progression, which suggests that the therapeutic targeting of FTO could offer a promising approach to the prevention of CagA‐induced cancer progression.
NMR Solution Structure of the N‐terminal GSPII Domain from the Thermus thermophilus Traffic ATPase PilF and Reconstruction of its c‐di‐GMP Binding Capability
Authors: Wöhnert Jens , Neißner Konstantin , Frohnapfel Carolin , Keller Heiko , Duchardt-Ferner Elke , Schneider Vanessa , Kamjou Zeinab , Averhoff Beate
Published: February 2025

The cyclic dinucleotide c‐di‐GMP is an important second messenger molecule in bacteria and interacts with a variety of receptor molecules including RNA and protein domains. An important class of c‐di‐GMP‐binding protein domains are the general secretory pathway type II (GSPII) domains as exemplified by the N‐terminal domain of the ATPase MshE from Vibrio cholerae (MshEN). MshEN binds monomeric c‐di‐GMP via two consecutive copies of a 24‐residue sequence motif, which form a compact 4‐α‐helical bundle. The ATPase PilF from Thermus thermophilus regulates pilus formation, motility and DNA‐uptake. Its N‐terminal section contains three consecutive GSPII domains (GSPII‐A – GSPII‐C) all with considerable sequence homology to MshEN. While the GSPII‐B and the GSPII‐C domains bind c‐di‐GMP, the GSPII‐A domain does not. To determine why it is incapable of c‐di‐GMP‐binding we determined the NMR‐solution structure of this domain. Our structure shows how small deviations in the consensus motif sequence, a stabilizing N‐terminal helical capping motif and intersubdomain interactions absent in MshEN cooperate to prevent c‐di‐GMP‐binding. By combining point mutations and truncations, we re‐established the c‐di‐GMP binding capability. Our findings shed new light on the evolution and functional diversification of GSPII domains and the importance of sequence variations for protein activity in this domain family.
Enhanced Targeted Deoxygenation Catalytic Pyrolysis of Lignin to Aromatic Hydrocarbons over Oxygen Vacancies Pt‐MoOx/TiO2
Authors: Gao Yi , Yu Jiajun , Zhang Bo , Jin Wei , Zhang Huiyan
Published: February 2025

Catalytic pyrolysis technology has been widely used in the conversion of lignin to aromatics, but the catalysts still suffer from poor stability and low product yields due to the lack of oxygen vacancy design. Herein, we report a multi‐active site synergistic strategy to enhance the cleavage of lignin aryl carbon‐oxygen bonds. Pt‐MoOx/TiO2 has a large specific surface area and pore volume, showing a significant medium mesopore size, which was favorable for trapping macromolecular oxides. Meanwhile, a significant synergistic effect was found between hydrogen‐activated metallic Pt and molybdenum oxide, which both inhibited the hydrogenation of the aryl ring and promoted the dissociation of hydrogen, thus providing more active sites. More importantly, the defective oxygen vacancies played a key role in the adsorption and activation of oxygen‐containing groups, facilitating the absorption of active hydrogen formed by hydrogen spillover. Under the conditions of atmospheric pressure and 400 °C, the high efficiency conversion (100%) of m‐cresol was achieved, and guaranteed a high yield of aromatics (98%) and high selectivity (98%). Extending to lignin, the yield of aromatics can reach 5 wt.%. The catalyst remained highly active after 6 h of continuous operation, and there was no significant decrease in yield after two regenerations.
Occupational Outcomes of Counselor Education Graduates From 2014 to 2022
Authors: Hatchett Gregory T.
Published: February 2025

This study cataloged the occupational outcomes attained by 2946 counselor education graduates who completed their doctoral degrees between 2014 and 2022. A position as a full‐time counselor educator was the most common occupation; this outcome could be predicted from the institutional affiliations, Carnegie Classifications, and locations of graduates' doctoral‐degree‐granting universities.
A Novel, Simple, Isocratic HPLC‐UV Method for Determination of Chiral Purity for Dibenzoyl‐L‐Tartaric Acid (L‐DBTA)
Authors: Gollapudi Pradeep Kumar , Nimmagadda Padmaja , Gollapudi Kranthi Kumar
Published: February 2025

Dibenzoyl‐L‐tartaric acid (L‐DBTA) is a crucial compound in the synthesis of chiral molecules, particularly within the pharmaceutical industry. Ensuring the enantiomeric purity of L‐DBTA is essential for regulatory compliance, quality control, and process optimization. To achieve this, a high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) method was developed and validated for determining the D‐DBTA content in L‐DBTA. The method validation adhered to ICH Q2(R2) guidelines, covering parameters such as system suitability, solution stability, robustness, linearity, range, limit of detection (LOD), limit of quantification (LOQ), accuracy, and precision. HPLC separation was performed using a Chiral PAK IA column (250 × 4.6 mm, 5.0 μm) with an isocratic mobile phase consisting of n‐heptane, isopropanol (IPA), and trifluoroacetic acid (900:100:1 v/v/v). The column temperature was maintained at 40°C, and the sample cooler was kept at ambient conditions. Detection was carried out at 230 nm, achieving a resolution greater than 1.5 between L‐DBTA and D‐DBTA. The method demonstrated excellent linearity over a range of 30%–200% of the specification limit, with accuracy and range established from the LOQ level to 200%. Solution stability was confirmed for 1 day at room temperature, and precision was validated at both the LOQ and 100% levels. All validation parameters met the acceptance criteria, confirming the method's suitability for routine testing and batch release at quality control sites. This HPLC method is both sensitive and selective, ensuring the reliable determination of chiral purity in L‐DBTA and its impurities.
Optimizing FECAF in MTSFM Waveforms Using Conjugate Gradient Descent With Efficient Line Search for Radar and Sonar Applications
Authors: Reddy G. Ravi Shankar , Pandu J. , Babu C. H. Ashok
Published: February 2025

Optimizing waveforms in radar and sonar systems is crucial for enhancing spectral efficiency and target detection capabilities, yet this process often faces challenges like computational complexity and convergence issues. This research introduces a novel method that leverages the frequency‐domain exponential cross ambiguity function (FECAF) within multi‐tone sinusoidal frequency modulated (MTSFM) waveforms, combined with the Conjugate Gradient Method with Efficient Line Search (CGM‐ELS) for optimization. The optimization of MTSFM waveforms is achieved by combining the generalized integrated sidelobe level (GISL) and peak‐to‐mean power envelope ratio (PMEPR) metrics. The GISL metric controls the main lobe and sidelobe structure of the waveform's autocorrelation function (ACF), quantifying unwanted energy in sidelobes to find an optimal compromise. PMEPR ensures efficient operation of radar or sonar transmitters by minimizing energy variations in the waveform's envelope, which is crucial for peak power‐limited systems. To optimize these metrics, the CGM‐ELS algorithm is employed, ensuring efficient convergence through iterative adjustment of waveform parameters based on gradient information and penalty functions. The proposed method transforms the optimization problem into an unconstrained format, reducing computational complexity and improving convergence rates. Experimental results have shown significant enhancements in computational efficiency and convergence rate, demonstrating the effectiveness of the CGM‐ELS algorithm in synthesizing waveforms with optimal ambiguity function characteristics for radar and sonar applications.
Deciphering the spectra of flowers to map landscape‐scale blooming dynamics
Authors: Angel Yoseline , Raiho Ann , Kathuria Dhruva , Chadwick K. Dana , Brodrick Philip G. , Lang Evan , Ochoa Francisco , Shiklomanov Alexey N.
Published: February 2025

Like leaves, floral coloration is driven by inherent optical properties, which are determined by pigments, scattering structure, and thickness. However, establishing the relative contribution of these factors to canopy spectral signals is usually limited to in situ observations. Modeling flowering dynamics (e.g., blooming duration, spatial distribution) at the landscape scale may reveal insights into ecological processes and phenological adaptations to environmental changes. Multi‐temporal visible to shortwave infrared (VSWIR) imaging spectroscopy observations are especially suited for such efforts. Reflectance in this spectral range is sensitive to major flower pigments, flowering phenology traces, and biophysical differences between flowers and other plant parts. We explored how flowers contribute to spectral signals using a time series of imagery from the Airborne Visible InfraRed Imaging Spectrometer‐Next Generation (AVIRIS‐NG) collected as part of the Surface Biology and Geology (SBG) High‐Frequency Time Series (SHIFT) campaign as a case study. Airborne data were collected weekly during the spring of 2022 across two natural reserves in California. Field spectra were gathered from blooming plots at leaf, flower, and canopy levels at two time points during the campaign. The processed data were used to investigate flowering species' spectro‐temporal variation and spatial distribution using spectral mixture residual (SMR), Gaussian clustering techniques, and a proposed narrow‐band flowering index. Linear spectral unmixing allowed the computation of the weighted contribution of four major high‐variance endmembers (leaves, flowers, soil, and dark) and low‐variance residual signal that comprises subtle spectral features used to track biophysical processes. The reflectance residual was projected on a low principal component basis to characterize flowering clusters' variation and spatial distribution based on the Gaussian mixture model, providing an uncertainty metric to assess the results. Mapping flowering events from modeling spectro‐temporal dynamics throughout the season, from pre‐blooming to post‐flowering stages, allowed us to identify gradient variations in spectral features within the VSWIR spectral range linked to flowering pigments. Time series of the Mixture Residual Blooming Index and the Red‐Edge Normalized Difference Vegetation Index revealed specific flowering and greenness phenophases across the two main species (Coreopsis gigantea, Artemisia californica) in the flowering areas. Overall, our approach opens opportunities for future satellite monitoring of floral cycles at broader scales.
Nutritional Literacy for Individual Oral Health Among Village Health Volunteers in Public Health Region 1 of Thailand
Authors: Sorasak Chollada , Nak‐Ai Worayuth , Yuennan Choosak , Wongsapai Mansuang
Published: February 2025

Background

Oral health issues persistently affect the overall health and well‐being of rural populations. Village health volunteers (VHVs) play a crucial role in advancing oral health literacy in their community. This study aimed to examine the factors related to nutritional literacy for oral health among VHVs.

Methods

This was a mixed‐methods study employing an explanatory sequential design. The quantitative data were gathered through questionnaires distributed to a cohort of 10,514 VHVs registered in Health Region 1. A stratified random sampling technique was used to ensure adequate representation of various subgroups within the VHV population, considering factors such as age, education level, and geographical distribution across the region. This approach allowed for a more representative sample that accurately reflects the diversity of the VHV population. Qualitative data were obtained through semi‐structured interviews with a purposive sampling of 20 participants based on specific criteria. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and biserial correlation techniques, while qualitative data were analyzed using content analysis.

Results

The study found that the sample group possessed a moderate level of knowledge of health literacy principles and nutrition for oral health. However, their self‐assessed skills in nutritional literacy for oral health were rated as high. A statistically significant negative correlation was found between knowledge of nutrition for oral health and skills in nutritional literacy for oral health. VHVs equated health literacy with knowledge because their public health training had focused more on imparting knowledge rather than developing skills based on health literacy principles.

Conclusion

There is a need to emphasize skill‐based health literacy training and to use effective skill development techniques that are tailored to the specific roles and responsibilities of health volunteers. It is also recommended to continuously monitor and evaluate the outcomes of these efforts.
Clinical experience of using high‐flow nasal cannula oxygen therapy for treating SARS‐CoV‐2019 (COVID‐19)‐infected patients in the emergency medicine ward
Authors: Ng Yiu Chung , Ko Shing , Lui Safiyyah Nok Sze , Chan Ka In , Wong Kevin Ching Hin , Wong Oi Fung
Published: February 2025

Introduction

During the fifth‐wave outbreak of COVID‐19 in Hong Kong in 2022, North Lantau Hospital (NLTH), as the designated COVID‐19 hospital in Kowloon West Cluster, offered medical support for COVID‐19 patients in the district and nearby isolation facilities. Intensive care units (ICUs) at that time were overwhelmed by the surge of patients. Training was provided to emergency medicine ward (EMW) staff for providing high‐flow nasal cannula (HFNC) oxygen therapy to severely ill COVID‐19 patients who developed hypoxemia and respiratory failure in a non‐ICU setting.

Method

Descriptive sharing of the clinical experience in managing patients with COVID‐19 infection who were admitted to the EMW of NLTH from March 1, 2022, to September 30, 2023, and required HFNC oxygen therapy. The associated factors for the clinical outcomes were also evaluated.

Results

During the study period, 22 COVID‐19 patients with hypoxemia and respiratory failure were offered HFNC oxygen therapy in the EMW of NLTH. All were elderly patients with an average age of 83.6 years and a background of multiple medical illnesses. Staff in the EMW were able to provide appropriate care for patients receiving HFNC after short training. There were no complications associated with the use of HFNC in any of the patients. Six (27.3%) patients survived their hospital admission. In general, patients with a higher ratio of peripheral saturation of oxygen (SpO2) and fraction of inspired oxygen (FiO2) (SF ratio) after the initiation of HFNC oxygen therapy were more likely to survive.

Conclusion

The use of HFNC for COVID‐19‐related acute hypoxemic respiratory failure is a feasible option for care in EMW settings. Our experience suggested that HFNC served as an initial life‐sustaining treatment for elderly COVID‐19 patients with fair premorbid status who were unlikely to benefit from invasive positive‐pressure ventilation, and their prognoses could be more objectively assessed by serial monitoring of the SF ratio.
Prevalence of Depression Among Infertile Women at Center for Fertility and Reproductive Medicine in Ethiopia: A Cross‐Sectional Study
Authors: Beyene Zerihun , Sium Abraham Fessehaye , Gebremedhin Genet , Dereje Bethel
Published: February 2025

Background

Screening for depression and understanding its predictors is essential as it can inform the type and extent of psychological intervention that needs to be provided before or during infertility treatment. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of depression and associated factors among infertile women who received care at a Center for Fertility and Reproductive Medicine (CFRM) in Ethiopia.

Methods

This was a cross‐sectional study conducted at CFRM in St. Paul's Hospital Millennium Medical College (Ethiopia) on women with infertility over a period of 3 months, from November 11, 2019 to February 2020. Data were collected prospectively through face‐to‐face interviews with the study participants using PHQ‐9. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 23. Simple descriptive statistics and bivariate and multivariate regression analysis were performed as appropriate. Frequency, percentage, adjusted odds ratio (AOR) along with 95% CI were used to present the finding.

Results

A total of 381 infertile women were approached, and 32 women did not respond, constituting a repose rate of 91.6%. Among the 349 infertile women included in the final analysis, the prevalence of depression was found to be 42.1% (147/349). Low monthly income (AOR = 4.4, 95% CI, 1.3−14.5), unemployment (AOR = 4.3, 95% CI, 1.2−11.5), history of divorce (AOR = 4.4. 95% CI, 1.4−13.0), and partner's low level of education (AOR = 3.2, 95% CI, 1.2−8.9) were associated with detection of depression among the infertile women included in the study.

Conclusion

The prevalence of depression among infertile women is lower than reports from previous studies. Regardless of this relatively low prevalence, our study supports integration of depression screening and psychological treatment for those affected before and during infertility treatments, as a vital component of healthcare infertile women.
Predictors of Adolescents' Positive and Negative Risk‐Taking: Similarities and Differences
Authors: Gao Shuyi , Wang Tianxiao , Sun Baihan , Li Danfeng
Published: February 2025

Introduction

The similarities and differences between positive (PRT) and negative risk‐taking (NRT) remain unclear. The present study explored the issue in terms of sensation‐seeking, impulse control, and peer factors.

Methods

Adolescents from Liaoning, China, participated in a 2‐year longitudinal study with two follow‐up surveys. The initial sample in June 2022 included 339 adolescents aged 12–15 years (51% female, Mage = 13.38). The follow‐up in June 2023 comprised 324 adolescents aged 13–16 years (52% female, Mage = 14.38) from the original sample.

Results

(1) Sensation seeking was positively related to PRT and NRT, motor control was negatively related to both, whereas attentional control and planning were positively related to PRT and negatively related to NRT. Moreover, Planning (T1) positively predicted PRT (T2). Additionally, changes in sensation seeking positively predicted PRT and NRT (T2), and changes in impulse control negatively predicted both. (2) Only sensation seeking and motor control interaction negatively predicted NRT but positively predicted PRT. (3) Negative peer norms were positively related to PRT and NRT, and positive peer norms was negatively related to NRT. The positive predictive effect of peer norms (T1) disappeared.

Conclusions

PRT and NRT were both associated with higher sensation seeking, lower motor control and higher negative peer norm. Unlike negative risk taking, positive risk taking was associated with higher planning, the interaction between sensation‐seeking and motor control and friendship quality. Our findings provide new information on the nuances of impulse control and positive and negative risk‐taking, and have implications for understanding and promoting positive adolescent risk‐taking, and PRT is an adaptive and strategic behavior compared to negative risk‐taking, which can be facilitated by an increase in the planning and quality of friendship.
Therapeutic Potential of Inhibiting Hmox1 in Sepsis‐Induced Lung Injury: A Molecular Mechanism Study
Authors: Li Qingying , Yu Xu , Yu Renjie , Shi Xinge , Lu Yibin
Published: February 2025

Sepsis induces severe multiorgan dysfunction, with the lungs being particularly susceptible to damage. This study reveals that Hmox1 inhibitors effectively activate the FSP1/CoQ10/NADPH pathway, significantly enhancing autophagic activity while suppressing ferroptosis in alveolar epithelial cells, thereby alleviating lung injury in septic mice. To identify key gene modules and regulatory factors associated with sepsis‐induced lung injury, we analyzed public transcriptomic data, including bulk RNA‐seq datasets (GSE236391 and GSE263867) and a single‐cell RNA‐seq (scRNA‐seq) data set (GSE207651). In vitro experiments were conducted using an LPS‐induced alveolar epithelial cell injury model to evaluate the effects of Hmox1 inhibitors on cell viability, autophagy markers (LC3‐II/LC3‐I and p62), ROS levels, and intracellular iron content. Transmission electron microscopy was used to observe mitochondrial structural changes. In vivo, a cecal ligation and puncture (CLP)‐induced sepsis mouse model was established to assess the therapeutic effects of Hmox1 inhibitors. This included evaluating survival rates, lung histopathological scores, lung wet‐to‐dry weight ratios, myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity, inflammatory cytokine levels, and changes in autophagy and ferroptosis markers. The results demonstrated that Hmox1 inhibitors effectively mitigate lung injury by modulating the autophagy‐ferroptosis pathway, highlighting their potential as a therapeutic strategy for sepsis‐induced lung damage.
Exosomal miR‐107 Derived From Cigarette Smoking‐Exposed Bronchial Epithelial Cells Aggravates Acute Lung Injury by Polarizing Macrophage to Proinflammatory Phenotype
Authors: Ni Xin , Lv Yufeng , Han Lei , Wang Qian , Wang Jia , Liu Tongtong , Zhang Li
Published: February 2025

Exosomes are critical mediators of intercellular crosstalk and play significant roles in the progression of various diseases including acute lung injury (ALI). However, the specific role of exosomes in ALI remains largely unexplored. In investigation, we demonstrated that exosomes released from cigarette smoke extract (CSE)‐exposed bronchial epithelial cells (BEAS‐2B) facilitated M1 macrophage polarization. Notably, CSE exposure enhanced the production of miR‐107 within these exosomes. Inhibition of miR‐107 markedly reversed the M1 macrophage polarization and inflammatory responses in vitro and ameliorated lung injury in vivo. Furthermore, exosomal miR‐107 was found to downregulate KLF4, thereby promoting M1 macrophage polarization and inflammation of macrophages. Collectively, these findings demonstrate that CSE‐exposed BEAS‐2B cells could induce M1 macrophage polarization via transmitting exosomal miR‐107, and eventually ultimately contributing to the progression of ALI, indicating a potential therapeutic strategy for ALI.
Evaluation of Anti‐Inflammatory and Antioxidant Effects of Ferulic Acid and Quinic Acid on Acetic Acid‐Induced Ulcerative Colitis in Rats
Authors: Ekhtiar Mahsa , Ghasemi‐Dehnoo Maryam , Azadegan‐Dehkordi Fatemeh , Bagheri Nader
Published: February 2025

Ulcerative colitis is a chronic inflammatory disease characterized by oxidative stress and the production of pro‐inflammatory cytokines. Ferulic acid and quinic acid, two phenolic compounds, are thought to have potent antioxidant and anti‐inflammatory properties. This study aimed to investigate the anti‐inflammatory and antioxidant effects of ferulic acid and quinic acid in rats with acetic acid (AA)‐induced ulcerative colitis. To this end, 64 Wistar rats were randomly divided into eight groups, each consisting of eight rats. AA was administered intrarectally to induce ulcerative colitis. Ferulic acid (20, 40, and 60 mg/kg), quinic acid (10, 30, 60, and 100 mg/kg), and dexamethasone (2 mg/kg) were received daily for five consecutive days. Then, the macroscopic and histopathological changes in the colon tissue were examined. Finally, the tissue levels of heme oxygenase 1 (HO1), nuclear factor erythroid 2‐related factor 2 (NRF2), and NAD(P)H quinone dehydrogenase 1 (NQO1) mRNA expression and pro‐inflammatory cytokine tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF‐α) and interleukin‐1 beta (IL‐1β) were measured using the quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) methods, respectively. AA‐induced ulcerative colitis in rats was associated with edema and severe damage to the epithelium, infiltration of inflammatory cells, and the presence of ulcers in the colon tissue. The results showed that rats who were administered AA showed a decrease in the expression of HO‐1, Nrf2, and NQO1 and increased protein levels of TNF‐α and IL‐1β than the control group. Rats were administered ferulic acid, quinic acid and, dexamethasone significantly improved histopathological indices. The expression of HO‐1, Nrf2, and NQO1 were upregulated by 60 mg/kg of ferulic acid, 60 and100 mg/kg of quinic acid and, 2 mg/kg of dexamethasone treatment compared to the ulcerative colitis group. The protein levels of TNF‐α and IL‐1β dose‐dependently decreased by ferulic acid and quinic acid treatment compared to the ulcerative colitis group. Ferulic acid and quinic acid effectively reduce inflammation and mucosal damage in rats with ulcerative colitis, especially when administered in high doses. The possible mechanism of anti‐inflammatory response by ferulic acid and quinic acid may involve the activating of the Nrf2/HO‐1 pathway.
Synthesis and Investigation of Antibacterial Properties of Thymol, Carvacrol, Eugenol, and Perillyl Alcohol Based β‐Halo Alcohol and β‐Halo Thiol Compounds
Authors: Çakmak Fatma , Toptan Hande , Genc Bilgicli Hayriye , Köroğlu Mehmet , Zengin Mustafa
Published: February 2025

A total of 12 new β‐halo alcohols and 12 new β‐halo thiol derivatives were synthesized. Natural alcohol compounds with known pharmacological properties were selected as starting substrates, aiming to synthesize compounds that have the potential to exhibit biological activity. The synthesis of β‐halo alcohol derivatives involved a two‐step process, while β‐halo thiol derivatives were carried out in three steps. Effective and inexpensive methods were used for all transformations. Yields for β‐halo alcohol derivatives ranged from 79% to 82%, and for β‐halo thiol derivatives from 66% to 71%. Their antibacterial properties against some gram (+) (Staphylococcus aureus, Enterococcus faecalis) and gram (−) (Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa) strains were investigated. The antibacterial effects of 24 newly synthesized compounds were compared to commercially available antibiotics Chloramphenicol and Streptomycin.
The Effects of Vitamin D on Muscle Strength Are Influenced by Testosterone Levels
Authors: Yang Aolin , Lv Qingqing , Han Ziyu , Dai Shimiao , Li Yao , Hao Mengru , Yu Ruirui , Zhu Junying , Yang Chenggang , Shi Zhan , Zhou Ji‐Chang
Published: February 2025

Background

Although the role of vitamin D receptor (VDR) in muscle mass and strength is well established, the effects of vitamin D (VD) on muscle remain controversial due to various factors. Herein, the influence of sex on the effects of VD on muscle function and the underlying reasons was explored.

Methods

Male and female Sod1 gene knockout (SKO) mice, serving as a model for skeletal muscle atrophy, were treated with the VD active analogue calcipotriol, and RNA sequencing was employed to investigate this potential signalling pathway. The National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) database was utilized to explore whether testosterone affects the correlation between VD and grip strength in human participants. Experiments involving C2C12 cells and castrated male mice subjected to immobilization were conducted to demonstrate the enhancing effects of testosterone on VD function.

Results

In male SKO mice, Vdr expression in the gastrocnemius muscle was positively correlated with grip strength (R2 = 0.4689, p < 0.001), whereas no such correlation was identified in female mice. At 28 weeks of age, both male and female SKO mice exhibited significantly reduced grip strength compared to Sod1 wild‐type (SWT) mice, and calcipotriol restored grip strength in male SKO mice (SWT‐veh: 0.0716 ± 0.0006, SWT‐cal: 0.0686 ± 0.0010, SKO‐veh: 0.0601 ± 0.0010, SKO‐cal: 0.0703 ± 0.0007; p < 0.05). Calcipotriol increased muscle protein synthesis and mitochondrial biogenesis while decreasing inflammation and atrogenes in gastrocnemius muscle of male SKO mice. However, the effect of calcipotriol on muscle was not significant in female SKO mice. Compared to wild‐type mice, both male and female SKO mice exhibited reduced levels of 1,25(OH)2D3 due to ROS‐induced hepatic CYP3A4 overexpression, thereby excluding the influence of baseline VD levels. The serum 25(OH)D3 and testosterone interactively affect grip strength in adults (p < 0.05). Using C2C12 cells differentiated into myotubes, testosterone significantly enhanced the inducing effects of VD on VDR, androgen receptor (AR), P‐AKT, PGC1α, Beclin1 and LC3B. Calcipotriol improved grip strength in sham‐operated mice but had a negligible effect on grip strength in castrated mice. However, a significant improvement in grip strength was observed in castrated mice following testosterone restoration (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

This study demonstrates the existence of sex heterogeneity in the effects of VD on muscle and that testosterone enhances the strength and molecular responses to VD. These findings underscore the importance of considering testosterone levels when utilizing VD to enhance muscle strength.
Imaging Findings of a Pediatric Patient With Focal Intrahepatic Bile Duct Hamartoma: A Case Report
Authors: Zhang Yi , Chen Jing , Du Yan
Published: February 2025

A 15‐year‐old female adolescent was previously in good health. Ultrasound examination revealed an 84 × 45 mm heterogeneous echo mass in the left inner lobe of the liver, exhibiting clear boundaries and a regular shape. Additionally, multiple small cysts were observed within the heterogeneous echo mass, and occasionally, a strong spot‐like echo with a comet tail sign was noted. Imaging results indicated that the left inner lobe of the liver exhibited a lamellar structure with an anomalous signal shadow, suggesting a high probability of bile duct hamartoma.
Bile acid and microbiome interactions in the developing child
Authors: Tessier Mary Elizabeth M. , Shneider Benjamin L. , Petrosino Joseph F. , Preidis Geoffrey A
Published: February 2025

Interactions between the gut microbiome and bile acids are complex and are linked to outcomes in pediatric liver disease by mechanisms that are incompletely understood. In adults, primary bile acids are synthesized in the liver and secreted into the intestine, where complex communities of gut microbes deconjugate, oxidize, epimerize, and 7α‐dehydroxylate bile acids into a diverse array of unconjugated, secondary, allo‐, iso‐, and oxo‐bile acids. In contrast, the infant gut microbiota contains a simple, Bifidobacterium‐dominant community that transitions to a more diverse, adult‐like community as additional microbes colonize the gut. This microbial succession gradually confers deconjugation, oxidation, epimerization, and 7α‐dehydroxylation activities that mature the bile acid pool from a profile dominated by primary bile acids early in life to a more diverse, adult‐like bile acid profile in later childhood. Altered bile acid profiles in pediatric cholestatic disorders have the potential to change the developmental trajectory of the microbiome. Conversely, alterations in the gut microbiome may re‐shape the bile acid pool and hepatic bile acid metabolism. Understanding the mechanisms underlying these interactions will increase our understanding of liver pathophysiology and will motivate new therapeutic strategies for pediatric hepatic disorders. This review aims to highlight differences between the pediatric and adult intestinal microbiome and bile acid pool, and to discuss interactions between gut microbes and bile acids that are critical in early life and that may impact outcomes in infants and children with cholestatic liver disease, including biliary atresia.
Analysis of plant science higher education reveals mixed provision which falls short of delivering national priorities
Authors: Trinder Sarah , Heaven Thomas , Luberti Matteo , Read Sophie , Scanlon Adam , Gauntner Chris , Forsyth Alec , Foster Alison C.
Published: February 2025

Background

Many reports from the UK government and other organisations highlight a need for a plant aware workforce, and some enumerate specific areas of plant science where there is a skills shortage. We have undertaken a systematic analysis of the content of degree programmes that advertise as teaching plant biology to determine if the UK Higher Education (HE) sector is delivering the graduates required to meet the skills gaps reported.

Results

Our data reveals a highly mixed picture of delivery from 1‐ to 4‐year courses, modules ranging from 10 to 40 credits, and Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) providing variable information on their websites. Our analysis shows that on average (irrespective of credit) a module covers three subject areas. Most courses have little plant content and it is generally taught with other subjects on a module. The most substantial plant‐specific subject teaching is delivered on 18 courses we have identified as Plant Science courses.

Conclusion

Overall, the UK HE sector is not delivering graduates with the skill set outlined in numerous reports as required to enable food production in a changing climate. Any prospective student (or employer) will find it virtually impossible to determine which degree will deliver the skills they need as there is no plant curriculum offered across the board, and specific information is hidden within module descriptors on websites. If the skills outlined as being essential for the economy and society are truly important, then a new approach is required.
Methacrylic Acid (MAA)‐Chemical Grafted Polyethersulfone Nanofiltration Membrane for Forward Osmosis Application
Authors: Ab Aziz Siti Nudra Shafinie , Abu Seman Mazrul Nizam , Tuan Chik Syed Mohd Saufi , Mohammad Abdul Wahab
Published: February 2025

This study successfully modifies NF2 PES membrane via chemical grafting with methacrylic acid (MAA) at predetermined monomer concentrations, reaction times, and initiator concentrations by means of producing forward osmosis (FO) membrane. The membranes are utilized in the FO system, and performance is discussed in terms of water and solute flux. The surface characteristics of the modified membrane are analyzed in terms of water contact angle, functional groups, and degree of grafting (DG), meanwhile, morphological studies are analyzed via AFM and FESEM characterization. Based on the FO test performance, it can be concluded that increasing monomer concentration results in an increase in the permeate fluxes until a certain value is reached; only then does the permeate flux start to decrease. However, the effect of monomer concentrations is not significant on the permeate flux when shorter reactions are applied. This is probably due to the limitation of reaction time, which only allows certain values at a time for co‐polymerization to be completed, hence affecting the permeate flux. Increasing reaction time offers more reactions to occur, leading to more surface grafting activity. However, prolonging the reaction time does not always improve the surface grafting, especially when higher monomer concentration and initiator concentration are involved.
Corrosion Mitigation of Mild Steel Over Thicknesses of Graphene Oxide/Polyaniline Nanocomposite Coatings
Authors: Thivagaran Rihashni , Aridi Mohd Radzi , Salim Nurjannah , Kabeb Siti Maznah , Bakar Nurul Huda Abu
Published: February 2025

Epoxy is frequently employed as a protective coating to inhibit corrosion. Over the years, researchers have focused on improving the barrier properties of epoxy coatings because prolonged exposure to harsh environments may induce corrosive ion permeation. In this regard, polyaniline functionalized graphene oxide (GO/PANI) nanocomposite is introduced into the epoxy matrix to enhance the barrier performance. GO is first sonicated at 5 h to yield smaller graphene sheet sizes and to ensure uniform suspension. The research reveals that thicker coating with five layers of the nanocomposites (GO/PANI‐5) successfully protects mild steel substrates at a corrosion rate (CR) of 0.0037 mm y−1 compared to pure epoxy coating at an equivalent thickness (≈0.016 mm year−1). Detailed investigation of electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) shows that the GO/PANI‐5 coating exhibits higher impedance with four to five orders of magnitude than the pure epoxy and bare mild steel substrate. The significant findings denote that a thicker layer with a smaller GO sheet allows for more barrier characteristics due to stronger adhesion and slower ion diffusion rate. To conclude, incorporating GO/PANI nanocomposites will add more protective values to pure epoxy and provide multifaceted applications regardless of thickness.
Convergence of 3D Polymer Printing and Multimedia: Innovative Possibilities for Industry
Authors: Singh Shishir Kumar , Upadhyaya Shrinkhala , Martolia Mukta , Sharma Vipin , Dubey Manish , Sharma Nivedita
Published: February 2025

3D polymer printing and multimedia represent cutting‐edge technologies that have become integral parts of our modern world. While 3D printing reshapes the physical realm by redefining how objects are manufactured, multimedia transforms the digital landscape, influencing how information is presented and consumed across diverse domains. 3D polymer printing, known for its layer‐by‐layer additive manufacturing process, has found a symbiotic relationship with multimedia, integrating visual, auditory, and interactive elements into the 3D printing realm. The research paper discusses how current and future 3D polymer printing can assist media industry through enhanced learning, interactive education experience, customized content, augmented and virtual reality, film and animation industry, as well as promotion of environmentally friendly practices. The versatility of 3D polymer printing has led to its widespread adoption across diverse industries, offering new possibilities in design, prototyping, and production. The tangible and interactive nature of 3D‐printed objects enriches multimedia content across various industries.