bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The complex lived experience of women with infertility in Ethiopia: An interpretative phenomenologic analysis
Authors: Araya Bilen Mekonnen , Velez Maria P. , Alemu Kassahun , Dyer Silke , Andualem Hiwot Temesgen , Aldersey Heather M.
Published: February 2025

Objective

To explore the lived experience of women living with infertility in Ethiopia.

Method

We used interpretative phenomenologic analysis with open‐ended semi‐structured questions, focusing on what living with infertility looks like and what that means to the women. Participants included women who had experienced infertility and were following treatment at St. Paul's Hospital Center for Fertility & Reproductive Medicine in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. We purposefully recruited 13 women living with infertility and used NVivo version 12 software for data analysis.

Results

The study generated six themes: (1) the reason for wanting a child, (2) the financial sacrifice of accessing treatment, (3) infertility and marriage, (4) estrangement and ostracization in social life, (5) psychological despair and support, and (6) faith and resilience. Further analysis identified the superordinate themes: the meaning of a child; lineage and continuity of life; togetherness; marital discord; reduced social participation; being left out of the world, psychological suffering; support and relationship with healthcare providers; helplessness, acceptance, and hope. A child in the Ethiopian context has significant meaning for women and the community. Being unable to accomplish motherhood brings numerous challenges.

Conclusion

The far‐reaching consequences of infertility substantially affect women's psychological, financial, sociocultural, and spiritual lives. However, despite the difficult journey of infertility, women develop coping mechanisms and resilience. Professional psychosocial support is necessary to alleviate the consequences of infertility, yet access to and utilization of these services are inadequate. Infertility needs to receive better attention in the Ethiopian healthcare system as it has significant implications for couples' lives.
Laser‐Induced Minimization of Circulating Tumor Cells to Suppress Tumor Metastasis
Authors: Sun Da , Yu Bingchen , Xu Rui , Wang Chenzheng , Pang Kai
Published: February 2025

Circulating tumor cells (CTCs) are key indicators of tumor metastasis. Effective clearance of CTCs can reduce the probability of metastasis. We designed a system for the real‐time dynamic monitoring and clearance of CTCs, capable of monitoring and clearing CTCs in the living circulatory system. Experimental results showed that pulsed laser treatment significantly affects the clearance of melanoma CTCs. Through in vivo imaging of small animals and survival analysis of mice, we observed that CTC clearance could reduce the size of distant metastatic lesions and prolong the lifespan of the mice. Additionally, we set up a hemolysis experiment to demonstrate that the laser energy used does not cause damage to red blood cells. This study is based on the physical and mechanical destruction of CTCs, meaning there is no issue of drug resistance. This provides a novel approach and technical means for suppressing tumor metastasis and extending the lifespan of patients in clinical settings.
Development of HIV Drug‐Resistance Mutations and Antiretroviral Efficacy Among Vietnamese Patients After Failure of 5‐Year First‐Line Therapy
Authors: Hung Than Manh , Bang Le Van Nguyen , Van Duyet Le
Published: February 2025

Background

The emergence of drug‐resistant mutations in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) over time presents a challenge to treatment. We describe the development of drug‐resistance mutations and ART efficacy reduction in Vietnamese patients with failure of first‐line ART during a 5‐year period.

Methods

This is a 5‐year observational cohort study with HIV viral loads of patients evaluated annually for 5 years (2017–2022) at the hospitals in Vietnam. Patients with a viral load ≥ 1000 copies/mL were subjected to identifying mutations in reverse transcriptase, protease, and integrase to evaluate HIV resistance and the efficacy of ART.

Results

After 5 years of monitoring the HIV load of 2932 patients on ART, 75 (2.56%) patients had concurrent virological failure at all 5 years. In 2017, only 2/75 HIV strains possessed Protease Inhibitor (PI) resistance mutations, while 75/75 HIV strains had both Nucleoside Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitors (NRTIs) and Non‐Nucleoside Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitors (NNRTIs) resistance mutations. Only four PI resistance variants were found, while 40 and 32 mutations were resistant to NRTIs and NNRTIs. After 5 years, the number of HIV PI resistance mutations had increased to 14, with 13 new mutations emerging. There were six novel mutations associated with resistance to NRTIs, NNRTIs, and the proportion of preexisting mutations increased from 1.3% to 13.3%. Furthermore, HIV sensitivity to ART decreased from 2.7% to 18.6%.

Conclusion

After 5 years, HIV had increased resistance mutations to PIs, NRTIs, and NNRTIs, with PI resistance mutations increasing the most rapidly, and the decrease in HIV sensitivity to PIs was higher than that to NRTIs and NNRTIs.
Large Friable Rectal Neuroendocrine Tumor Complicated by Hemorrhagic Shock: A Rare Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Abboud Yazan , Qureshi Imran , Khrais Ayham , Le Alexander , Patel Param , Ozbilgin Ozlem Fidan , Vossough‐Teehan Sima
Published: February 2025

Rectal neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) are rare neoplasms that are usually asymptomatic and diagnosed incidentally. There are limited data on the presentation and management of high‐grade poorly differentiated large friable rectal NETs. We report the first case of an 87‐year‐old male who presented with chronic diarrhea and subsequently had severe hematochezia complicated by hemorrhagic shock and cardiac arrest and was diagnosed with a 7‐cm high‐grade friable rectal NET. Our case sheds light on the need to consider NETs in cases of chronic diarrhea and on the importance of endoscopy‐guided biopsy in the diagnosis and categorization, which can guide management.
Differential associations between race‐based traumatic stress and major, everyday, and vicarious racial discrimination among young adults of color
Authors: Woolverton Genevieve Alice , Yip Tiffany , Rastogi Ritika , Hahm Hyeouk Chris , Liu Cindy H.
Published: February 2025

Race‐based traumatic stress (RBTS) is a psychological response to racial discrimination among individuals with marginalized racial/ethnic identities, but the literature about how different forms of racial discrimination contribute to RBTS is lacking. We compared the effects of major, everyday, and vicarious racial discrimination on RBTS and evaluated the associations between ethnic–racial identity (ERI) and RBTS. Analyses used cross‐sectional survey data from Black, Asian, and Latine young adults (N = 1,342, Mage = 25.9 years) collected in 2022. Demographic variables; major, everyday, and vicarious racial discrimination; ERI commitment and exploration; and RBTS were assessed. Hierarchical multiple regression was used to identify correlates of RBTS. Everyday, β = .37, p < .001; vicarious, β = .16, p < .001; and major racial discrimination, β = .16, p = .004, predicted RBTS. Neither ERI commitment nor ERI exploration was significantly associated with RBTS. Race did not moderate the associations between major, everyday, or vicarious discrimination and RBTS, highlighting that Black, Asian, and Latine young adults appear to be equally at risk. As most vicarious racial discrimination and RBTS research has focused on Black samples, we expand the literature by including Latine and Asian young adults. Our observation that vicarious racial discrimination was a similarly strong predictor of RBTS compared to everyday and major racial discrimination underscores the importance of its inclusion in research focused on discrimination and mental health. Taken together, clinical assessment should focus on questions related to diverse experiences of racial discrimination for individuals with marginalized racial identities.
Robotic functional alignment in knee arthroplasty minimizes impact on ankle alignment: Role of MPTA and LDFA preservation
Authors: Sangaletti Rudy , Montagna Alice , Calandra Giulio , Andriollo Luca , Bna Claudio , Benazzo Francesco , Rossi Stefano Marco Paolo
Published: February 2025

Purpose

Alignment strategies in knee arthroplasty have a profound influence not only on knee biomechanics but also on the biomechanics of adjacent joints, particularly the ankle. Functional alignment (FA) represents a flexible alignment strategy aimed at achieving patient‐specific balance. However, predefined boundaries are often applied to ensure mechanical stability, leading to adjustments in the medial proximal tibial angle (MPTA) and lateral distal femoral angle (LDFA) while still respecting the patient's native alignment as much as possible. FA is a patient‐specific strategy that seeks to respect the patient's preoperative phenotype or constitutional alignment while achieving a balanced and stable knee. The hypothesis is that FA strategies can protect the ankle from excessive biomechanical stress.

Methods

A retrospective cohort analysis was conducted on 300 consecutive patients who underwent robotic‐assisted knee arthroplasty. Preoperative and 6‐month post‐operative radiographic evaluations measured key ankle parameters, tibial plafond inclination (TPI), talar inclination (TI) and Talar Tilt (TT). Statistical analyses evaluated the influence of alignment strategies on these parameters, with particular focus on whether MPTA and LDFA crossed the 90° threshold, indicating a shift from varus to valgus or vice versa.

Results

FA demonstrated smaller changes in ankle parameters compared to mechanical alignment (MA). In the FA group, mean changes were 1.8° for KTPA (standard deviation [SD] = 1.1°, p = 0.03), 2.4° for TPI (SD = 1.0°, p = 0.04), 2.1° for TI (SD = 1.3°, p = 0.05) and 1.7° for TT (SD = 0.9°, p = 0.04). The MA group showed greater deviations: 3.9° for KTPA (SD = 1.5°, p = 0.01), 5.2° for TPI (SD = 1.2°, p = 0.02), 4.8° for TI (SD = 1.4°, p = 0.03) and 3.6° for TT (SD = 1.1°, p = 0.04). Alterations in LDFA and MPTA exceeding 2° were significantly associated with worsening ankle alignment. Furthermore, FA, with its goal of maintaining Coronal Plane Alignment of the Knee (CPAK) classification, was associated with minimal modifications to ankle angles, suggesting potential biomechanical benefits as reported in the literature.

Conclusions

FA was associated with smaller changes in ankle alignment parameters, indicating its ability to better preserve native joint positioning. Future research should focus on longitudinal studies to confirm these benefits and further establish the FA strategy as a standard in knee arthroplasty, particularly its capacity to maintain CPAK classification alignment.

Level of Evidence

Level III.
Historical Variation in Carbon Fractions in Permafrost Peatland and Its Effects on Peatland Carbon Pool
Authors: Cong Jinxin , Li Guangxin , Han Dongxue , Wang Guoping , Gao Chuanyu
Published: February 2025

Permafrost peatlands store high amount of soil carbon. These developed on permafrost layers, which are being endangered increasingly by climate change and wildfires. However, limited data exist on the variation in carbon fractions and their effects on the stability of permafrost peatland carbon pools, despite that carbon fractions are widely used in other ecosystems. Here, we considered that peat soils consist of undecomposed plant litter and separated these into five carbon fractions: macro plant residue carbon (MPRC), coarse particulate organic carbon (cPOC), free particulate organic carbon (fPOC), occluded particulate organic carbon (oPOC), and mineral‐associated organic carbon (MAOC). We analyzed the historical variation in these fractions over the past 700 years and their effects on the carbon pool in the Hongtu peatland (HT, northern Great Khingan Mountains, China). Our results showed that MPRC comprised 66.7% ± 7.6% of the carbon pool, whereas oPOC and MAOC accounted for less than 1%. Notably, fPOC, which represented 15.6% ± 6.5% of the total carbon, had a high aromatic content. It may serve as an important stable carbon fraction for the peatland carbon pool. Over the past 700 years, the decrease in proportion of MPRC and increase in proportions of cPOC and fPOC have resulted in significant increases in both carbon content and aromaticity. Warm/dry conditions and high‐intensity fires reduced the accumulation rates (ARs) of MPRC while increasing those of fPOC and cPOC. The high organic carbon content in the HT peatland limited the availability of mineral elements and resulted in MAOC ARs of approximately 0.01 g m−2 yr−1. This was strongly influenced by the regional dust deposition. Cold climates and intense fires caused an increase in dust deposition, which also increased the MAOC ARs.
Terahertz GaAs Indicator Chip Based on High‐Q‐Factor Spoof Localized Surface Plasmons Resonator
Authors: Wan Ming , Wang Jiangpeng , Bao Di , Fan Fei , Gao Hao , Qu Zhen Yu , Cui Tie Jun
Published: February 2025

Spoof localized surface plasmons (spoof LSPs, SLSPs) have recently emerged as high‐quality‐factor (Q‐factor) multipole electromagnetic resonant structures, showcasing considerable promise in the field of sensing. However, sensing in the terahertz band presents notable challenges. Here, a dual‐port coupled SLSPs resonator and a single‐port coupled SLSPs resonator are proposed with phase separated excitation, both exhibiting high‐Q‐factors in the terahertz band. The dual‐port coupled SLSPs can sustain both odd resonance mode and even resonance mode, whereas the single‐port coupled SLSPs can generate vortex wave resonance modes and asymmetric modes. In the measurement, the highest Q value of the dual‐port resonator is 69 at the frequency of 179.4 GHz. Equally noteworthy is the single‐port resonator, which reaches a groundbreaking Q‐factor of 405.4 at the frequency of 150 GHz, marking a significant advancement in the Q‐factors of passive devices. Biosensing for Bletilla, Fritillaria, Rhubarb, and glucose in the terahertz band is implemented, with the maximum frequency shift of 15.8 GHz for the dual‐port coupled SLSPs and 7.8 GHz for the single‐port coupled SLSPs. The maximum sensing figures of merits (FoM) are 4.1 and 12.9RIU−1 for the dual‐ and single‐port resonators, respectively, underscoring substantial potentials of this work in the realm of terahertz sensing.
Rapid Whole Genome Sequencing Uncovers a Triple Diagnosis: X‐Linked Chondrodysplasia Punctata, MECP2‐Related Disorder, and Mosaic Jacobs Syndrome
Authors: Samuels Megan , Shields Kathleen , Hillman Paul , Farach Laura
Published: February 2025

Background

Rapid Whole Genome Sequencing (rWGS) is increasingly being used in neonatal intensive care units, as there is growing evidence that rare singe gene disorders present in the neonatal period and early identification can change management. While the diagnostic utility is increased with this broad testing, the possibility of unexpected findings also increases significantly. Here, we present a patient found to have three distinct genetic conditions through rWGS testing, with significant psychosocial and health consequences.

Methods and Results

This case report describes a patient who was identified with a form of chondrodysplasia punctata, as well as incidental findings of MECP2‐related disorder and Jacobs' syndrome. To our knowledge, this is one of the first documented cases of triple genetic diagnoses in the literature, underscoring the expanding clinical utility of rWGS.

Conclusion

Our patient represents a unique example of the utility of rWGS in the NICU setting. As two of the three conditions were unexpected results, his case is an important reminder of the possibility of unexpected findings for both providers and families. His case demonstrates the importance of pretest counseling and consenting processes, particularly in an acute setting. It also will add to our understanding of MECP2 variant presentations in males in the future.
Electron beam monitoring of a modified conventional medical accelerator with a portable current transformer system traceable to primary electrical standards
Authors: Renaud James , Muir Bryan Richard , Williams Andrew , McEwen Malcolm
Published: February 2025

Background

Ultra‐high dose rate radiotherapy (UHDR) delivers therapeutic doses at rates >40 Gy/s in a fraction of a second, aiming to enhance the therapeutic ratio through the FLASH effect. The substantial increase in UHDR beam current poses serious challenges for conventional active dosimeters. Integrating current transformers (ICT) offer a nondestructive solution for accurate monitoring, enabling the type of fast transient readout that will be crucial for UHDR treatment verification.

Purpose

The aim of this study is to build and characterize a clinically deployable ICT system and to develop an accurate calibration methodology for absolute charge determination that is traceable to primary electrical standards.

Methods

The ICT was constructed from a Super MuMetal® toroid, and its secondary winding was made from 50 Ω coaxial cable. A 3D‐printed case with an internal conductive coating shields the toroid assembly from interference. The ICT readout involves a custom differential amplifier and a commercial flash analog‐to‐digital converter. The system was calibrated using a bespoke sub‐µs current pulser in the range of (2 to 16) mA, which itself is traceable to electrical standards via an in‐house built electrometer with a calibrated feedback capacitor. The performance of the ICT was evaluated as a milliampere‐scale beam monitor against concurrent absorbed dose graphite calorimetry irradiation measurements acquired on a specially tuned medical accelerator for UHDR delivery.

Results

The ICT responses for nominal test pulses, generated by a function generator and a current pulser, exhibited accurate reproduction of rise and fall times within the 1 ns sampling frequency. A systematic droop effect of 0.6(1)%/µs was observed but is accounted for through the calibration chain. The calibration of the current pulser exhibited a repeatability typically better than 0.05%, with a slowly‐varying leakage that can be subtracted using a linear regression of the leakage current. The ICT charge calibration demonstrated a repeatability in the range of (0.5 to < 0.05)% for charge per pulse values in the range of (0.5 to 50) nC, respectively. The ICT response showed a strong linear relationship (adj‐R2 = 0.99997) to charge per pulse. The in‐beam comparison with a graphite calorimeter demonstrated the effectiveness of the ICT as an online beam monitor, independent of pulse repetition frequency in the range of (25 to 200) Hz, reducing the mean excess (i.e., independent of accelerator output) calorimeter variation to 0.3% (0.1% standard error on the mean).

Conclusions

This work demonstrates the feasibility of accurately calibrating the ICT in terms of absolute charge and applying it as a clinically deployable monitoring system of mA‐scale electron beams delivered by a medical accelerator.
The Effect of Massage, Acupressure and Reflexology on Restless Legs Syndrome Severity and Sleep Quality in Patients Receiving Haemodialysis Treatment: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Döner Ayser , Taşci Sultan , Bilgin Aylin
Published: February 2025

Aim

This study aimed to review massage, acupressure and reflexology interventions applied to haemodialysis patients with restless legs syndrome and to examine the effects of these interventions on sleep quality.

Design

A systematic review and meta‐analysis.

Data Sources

A systematic literature search was conducted on databases ScienceDirect, Web of Science, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, EBSCO and PubMed.

Methods

The Modified Jadad scale was used. The statistical analysis was conducted using the Stata 15.0 software, with the aim of evaluating heterogeneity between studies using both chi‐square and I2 statistics. The risk of bias in the included studies was assessed using both the Cochrane risk of bias assessment tool and statistical tests. A funnel plot was used to detect potential publication bias, which is indicated by an asymmetry in the plot. The Egger regression test was also performed to evaluate publication bias.

Results

Twelve studies were selected for the meta‐analysis. All studies included in this meta‐analysis were of good quality. In the subgroup analysis, it was determined that massage and acupressure reduced the severity of restless legs syndrome as a result of the intervention, while reflexology had no effect. Interventions did not affect the sleep quality of patients. Restless legs syndrome severity was significantly reduced in studies using oil and in studies that intervened for more than 15 min per session.

Conclusion

Interventions applied to haemodialysis patients with restless legs syndrome can reduce the severity of restless legs syndrome. It is recommended to conduct randomised controlled trials that determine the effects of methods on restless legs syndrome severity and sleep quality in haemodialysis patients.
Organotin(IV) Alkoxides, Siloxides, and Related Stannoxanes. Characterisation and Thermogravimetric Studies
Authors: Penciu Vlad , Bizo Liliana , Varga Richard A. , Someşan Adrian‐Alexandru
Published: February 2025

A series of C,O‐chelated organotin(IV) alkoxides, L2PhSnOtBu (4), L2PhSnOMe (6), L2Sn(OtBu)2 (11), and siloxides L2PhSnOSiPh3 (3), L2Sn(OSiPh3)2 (10) (L=[2‐(CH2O)2CH]C6H4), was prepared by salt elimination reactions. They were obtained from the organotin(IV) iodides L2PhSnI (1) or L2SnI2 (2) upon reactions with tBuOK, MeONa or Ph3SiONa, respectively, in dry THF or methanol. Under non‐inert conditions, compounds 4 and 6 undergo combined hydrolysis and condensation to give the hexaorganodistannoxane (L2PhSn)2O (5). The stannoxane 5 is easily hydrolysed to L2PhSnOH (7), which quickly converts back when heated. Basic hydrolysis of diiodide 2 produces the cyclic oxide (L2SnO)3 (8). Its reaction with an equimolar amount of Ph3SiONa gives only a mixture of the expected L2SnI(OSiPh3) (9), 10 and the precursor, 2. Yet, 8 shows a unique reactivity pattern when combine with m‐tolyl boronic acid, affording stannaboroxane (L2SnO)2OB(m‐tol) (12). All the isolated species were characterised in solution by NMR spectroscopy and mass spectrometry. The solid‐state molecular structures of 1–5, 10–12 were established by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction (XRD). Additionally, thermogravimetric analysis of 3–5, 8, 10, and 12 was conducted.
Clonal dynamics of chronic myelomonocytic leukemia progression: paired‐sample comparison
Authors: Kao Hsiao‐Wen , Kuo Ming‐Chung , Ou Che‐Wei , Huang Ting‐Yu , Chang Hung , Lin Tung‐Liang , Hung Yu‐Shin , Wu Jin‐Hou , Shih Lee‐Yung
Published: February 2025

This study investigated the clonal evolution of chronic myelomonocytic leukemia (CMML) progression to secondary acute myeloid leukemia (sAML) by next‐generation sequencing and pyrosequencing for variant allele frequency (VAF) of gene mutations and SNP microarray for copy neutral loss of heterozygosity (CN‐LOH) in 38 paired samples from CMML/sAML patients of Taiwanese origin. The median interval between CMML and sAML samples collection was 14.9 months (1.0–89.6). RUNX1 (57%), TET2 (46%), SRSF2 (37%), and ASXL1 (28%) mutations were frequent at CMML diagnosis. Baseline VAF in epigenetic regulator genes was high (>35%) in 83% of mutational events at the CMML phase, remained stable in 78% (VAF changes <10%), and increased in 20% (increased VAF > 10%) during progression to sAML. Transcription factor genes showed high VAF (>35%) in 51% at the CMML phase, and stable VAF in 60% during progression. VAF of spliceosome genes was high (>35%) in 70% at CMML phase, and stable in 61% during progression. Activated signaling genes exhibited acquisition or loss during progression. TET2 mutations were often founding clones, and SRSF2, ASXL1, DNMT3A, EZH2, or spliceosome genes also acted as ancestral mutations. RUNX1 mutations were typically later events and occasionally ancestral hits or germline mutations. Acquisition of cytogenetic changes, signaling pathways genes (PTPN11, FLT3, NRAS, CBL), or AML‐defined genes (NPM1, CEBPA, CBFB::MYH11) by linear or branching evolution occurred during sAML progression. CN‐LOH was noted in EZH2, CBL, TET2, and DNMT3A genes. CEBPA mutation and concurrent biallelic TET2 with NRAS mutations at CMML diagnosis were risk factors for time to AML progression and overall survival. A characteristic ASXL1MT/RUNX1MT/SpliceosomeMT/signalingWT genetic profile was associated with monocyte counts of 0.5–1.0 × 109/l. This study highlights the complexity and heterogeneity of dynamic changes in clonal architecture during CMML progression, emphasizing its importance in pathogenesis, phenotype, risk stratification, and therapeutic strategy. © 2025 The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.
Assessment of Caregivers and Their Children With Cancer Regarding Information Provided by Healthcare Teams: Advancing Stages Toward the Creation of a Structured Education Program at the National Level
Authors: De la Maza Verónica , Fierro Virginia , Facusse Carolina , Carvajal Daniela , Pavez Tiare , Méndez Karen , Barra María , Torres Juan P. , Torres Daniela , Moscoso Paz , Santolaya María , Paris Claudia
Published: February 2025

Introduction

The dissemination of information to caregivers of pediatric cancer patients in Chilean hospitals is now sporadic and contingent upon available time, underscoring the need for a systematic education program. This study assesses caregivers’ perceptions of the information provided by healthcare teams to support the development of a national education program tailored to their needs.

Methods

A descriptive, prospective, multicenter study was conducted from June 2021 to March 2022 across six public hospitals in Chile. The study included caregivers of children undergoing cancer treatment. Caregivers completed a survey assessing the education received and their preferred educational methods. Data were analyzed using STATA 18 and Graph Pad 6.0, with qualitative responses analyzed through an iterative coding process.

Results

Of 173 respondents, 94% rated the education received as very good or good. While 51% felt well‐informed at hospital discharge, 28% desired more information. Caregivers preferred information from healthcare teams (88%), websites (55%), and written materials (51%). Significant differences were found in preferred educational content based on cancer type and the time elapses since diagnosis.

Conclusion

Caregivers generally rated the education provided positively but expressed a need for more structured and targeted information. The findings inform the design of a national education program, emphasizing the need for tailored content and improved communication strategies to enhance caregiver support.
Research on the effects of contents and types of water‐soluble chitosan on properties of antibacterial natural latex foam
Authors: Li Yi , Xue Yuanyuan , Zhu Yanchao , Li Xiaoye , Gao Shuang
Published: February 2025

This study used carboxymethyl chitosan (CMCS) and quaternized chitosan (QCS) as antibacterial agents to produce antibacterial natural rubber latex foam (NRLF) via the Dunlop method. The micro‐morphology, physical properties, tensile strength, compressive properties, and antibacterial activities were evaluated. The experimental results show that adding chitosan significantly reduces the pore size of the NRLF foam and makes its microstructure more compact. Specifically, at 0.4phr NRLF‐QCS, 42% of the foam pores are 0.2 mm in size. Both NRLF‐CMCS and NRLF‐QCS showed increased density, cross‐linking density, and water absorption with higher filler content. Compared to the control, both foams exhibited improved tensile properties: NRLF‐CMCS increased by 85% to 0.26 MPa, while NRLF‐QCS increased by 178% to 0.39 MPa. However, rebound properties after compression declined, with 0.8phr NRLF‐CMCS showing the lowest rebound rate at 48.56%. In terms of antibacterial properties, both NRLF‐CMCS and NRLF‐QCS show enhanced antibacterial activities against Escherichia coli, with NRLF‐CMCS demonstrating superior performance. The inhibition zone diameter increased from 10.6 to 13.24 mm, indicating significantly improved antibacterial efficacy.

Highlights

The antibacterial natural rubber latex foam (NRLF) was prepared by Dunlop method.

Carboxymethyl chitosan (CMCS) and quaternized chitosan (QCS) were used as antibacterial agents to fabricate antibacterial NRLF.

The physical properties of NRLF‐CMCS and NRLF‐QCS exhibit an increasing trend.

Both NRLF‐CMCS and NRLF‐QCS exhibited enhanced efficacy against Escherichia coli.
Use of deep eutectic solvents based on choline chloride, urea, and lactic acid as plasticizers in low‐density polyethylene films
Authors: Küçükçakır Özgür , Dağdelen Adnan Fatih
Published: February 2025

This study aims to investigate the performance of deep eutectic solvents (DESs) as plasticizers in low‐density polyethylene (LDPE) films and to compare them with di(2‐ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP). DESs were produced by mixing choline chloride with lactic acid and urea in 1:1 and 1:2 molar ratios. The prepared DESs were added to LDPE at two different ratios (10% and 30%), and films with 10 different compositions were produced by the extrusion method. The densities, viscosities, pH, volatility, and thermal values of the produced DESs were determined between 1.14 and 1.18 g/cm3, 22 and 99 mPa.s, 0.05 and 9.02, 0.7% and 18.9%, and <−70 and 63°C, respectively. When the DESs were examined in terms of their bond structure, it was observed that they could be produced successfully. The LDPE films with DES were characterized by thickness, mechanical, barrier, optical, DSC, FTIR, SEM, water behavior properties, heat sealability, and overall migration (OM) properties. According to the results of some basic analyses performed on the films, the first three films with the best properties (CL1:30, CL2:30, and DEHP:30) were determined using TOPSIS from the multi‐criteria decision hierarchy techniques. It was determined that the DES films with the most suitable properties had better properties than the control and DEHP films in terms of tensile strength (10–12 MPa), elongation at break (500%–545%), water vapor permeance (0.03–0.04 g/m2/h/kPa), and oxygen transmission rate (13–14 cm3/m2/day), water contact angle (>99°), and UV light barrier analyses. DES did not cause any change in the DSC and OM values of LDPE films. In general, important results were obtained regarding the use of DES as effective plasticizers in LDPE films.

Highlights

DES is a sustainable alternative to DEHP for LDPE plasticization.

DES‐plasticized films showed 400% better elongation performance.

DES‐plasticized films showed 25% better water vapor and 80% better oxygen barriers.

DES‐plasticized films have superior UV light barrier and hydrophobic properties.

DES‐plasticized films did not affect thermal stability or OM.
Rheological, microstructural, thermal and barrier properties of polylactide/polyethylene glycol/inulin/encapsulated cinnamon essential oil films
Authors: Ahmed Jasim , Joseph Antony , Ejaz Mohammad , Al‐Attar Hasan
Published: February 2025

The ongoing use of polymeric materials and associated pollution is a challenge to our society. It has resulted in a shift in the industry from polymeric to sustainable packaging. The aim of this work was to fabricate extruded polylactide (PLA)‐based packaging by incorporating inulin, polyethylene glycol, and cinnamon essential oil encapsulates. The fabricated film samples were characterized by various analytical tools (rheometer, TGA, FTIR, XRD, and AFM) to gain deeper insights into their compatibility and the effect of microstructure evolution on film‐forming properties for their potential packaging applications. Rheologically, the blend melt exhibited a shear‐thinning behavior and improved the mechanical rigidity of plasticized PLA films upon incorporation of CEO encapsulates. The thermal stability of the films was validated by the TGA thermograms, and the analyzed films showed insignificant variations from one another. The smoothness of the PLA/PEG/CEOINL film, along with the presence of some inulin particles on the surface, was evident. The XRD and FTIR peaks suggest a loss of volatiles during extrusion. The barrier properties of the films did not enhance with the addition of encapsulates or inulin to PLA. Overall, the PLA/PEG/CEOINL film has potential for active food packaging in anticipation of its antimicrobial properties, as demonstrated in the encapsulates.

Highlights

PLA/inulin/cinnamon essential oil active packaging films were fabricated.

The addition of inulin lowered the mechanical and thermal properties of the film.

The melt rheology of the films exhibited the shear‐thinning behavior.

Unlike inulin, CEO distributes well on the PLA composite films.
Room‐Temperature Healable and Mechanically Robust Polyurea‐Urethane Based on Dynamic Tetrahedral Boronate‐Esters Bonds and Hydrogen Bonds
Authors: Hao Yujia , Zhu Guangming , Li Ben
Published: February 2025

Although some studies have reported high‐toughness or high‐strength self‐healing materials, the self‐healing process still requires demanding conditions such as high temperatures. It remains challenging to achieve a balance between mechanical properties and self‐healing efficiency under mild conditions. Herein, we design a novel self‐healing polyurea‐urethane (PUU) material. The polymer has crosslinked internal “cores” and well‐designed flexible chains with multiple alicyclic structures, which are crosslinked via tetrahedral boronate‐esters bonds (TBEs) and hydrogen bonds, resulting in a dynamic crosslinked PUU network (denoted as TBE‐PUU). The resulting materials (TBE‐PUU2) not only exhibit outstanding tensile strength (28.5 MPa), stretchability (1217%), toughness (166.1 MJ m−3), etc., but also possess excellent self‐healing ability in response to water or thermal stimuli. It achieves high self‐healing efficiency of 92.0% at room temperature for 48 h with the aid of water and 97.7% at 60°C for only 8 h. The new strategy offers new possibilities to seek a balance between material dynamic properties and mechanical robustness.
α‐Ga2O3‐Based Heterojunction Diodes and Junction Field‐Effect Transistors
Authors: Bokemeyer Paul , Petersen Clemens , Dethloff Christiane , Chen Yang , von Wenckstern Holger , Grundmann Marius , Vogt Sofie
Published: February 2025

This article presents a comprehensive investigation into the suitability of diverse p‐type materials for the fabrication of pn‐heterojunctions and junction field‐effect transistors (JFETs) with α‐Ga2O3. The electrical properties of these materials are examined in detail and compared with one another in order to ascertain their relative merits. Therefore copper iodide (CuI), zinc cobalt oxide (ZCO), and nickel oxide (NiO) are used as p‐type contacts. The smallest ideality factors are obtained for pn‐heterojunctions utilizing CuI, whereas the highest current rectification is obtained for diodes with NiO and ZCO contacts, if an oxygen plasma treatment of the α‐Ga2O3 is performed before the deposition of the p‐type electrode. This way current rectification ratios of up to are achieved. In a next step, these findings are used to fabricate highly functional JFETs with a α‐Ga2O3 channel. These devices exhibit current on/off ratios of up to and small mean sub‐threshold swings of at a low drain voltage of 3 V. High breakdown voltages of up to 418 V are achieved, regardless of the gate material.
scSCC: A swapped contrastive learning‐based clustering method for single‐cell gene expression data
Authors: Wang Xiang , Yang Sansheng , Li Hongwei
Published: February 2025

Cell clustering plays a pivotal role in deciphering the intricacies of cell types, facilitating subsequent cell annotation endeavors within scRNA‐seq data analysis. In this paper, we propose a novel swapped contrastive clustering algorithm for scRNA‐seq data called scSCC. scSCC combines two contrastive learning modules, namely the instance contrastive learning module and the swapped prediction module, to extract clustering‐friendly cell representations. Through the combination of swapped prediction module and instance contrastive learning module, scSCC can retrieve disentangled cell representations and amplify the clustering signals in the latent space, leading to satisfactory clustering performance. Different from existing contrastive‐learning‐based scRNA‐seq data clustering algorithms, the swapped prediction module of scSCC injects clustering signals to the latent space through some clustering prototypes. The swapped prediction module encourages cells of the same cluster to gravitate toward the common clustering prototype and naturally stay away from other prototypes in the latent space, hence cell representations obtained by scSCC are more clustering‐friendly compared to other algorithms. Experimental results on real scRNA‐seq datasets show that scSCC achieves improved clustering performance compared with the benchmark methods. The ablation study on two contrastive modules exhibits the promotion by the combination of instance learning module and swapped prediction module. The source codes are available at the GitHub website (EnchantedJoy/scSCC).
Full Study, Model Verification, and Control of a Five Degrees of Freedom Hybrid Robotic‐Assisted System for Neurosurgery
Authors: Sedky Ahmed , Mansour Nader A. , El‐Assal Ahmed , Magdy Mahmoud
Published: February 2025

Background

Neurosurgery demands high precision, and robotic‐assisted systems are increasingly employed to enhance surgical outcomes. This study focuses on a hybrid robotic‐assisted system for neurosurgery, addressing forward and inverse kinematics, Jacobian matrices, and system singularities.

Methods

The system is simulated using MATLAB/Simscape Multibody to achieve accurate kinematic and dynamic representations. An inverse kinematics framework was developed for generating and validating a circular trajectory at the end‐effector tip. Two control strategies are compared: traditional active joint PID control and combined trajectory feedback plus feedforward control.

Results

The combined control strategy significantly improves performance, reducing the maximum absolute error of each output by an average of 46.5% and the mean square error by 50.31% under optimal conditions.

Conclusion

The findings highlight the potential of trajectory feedback and feedforward control to enhance the precision and reliability of robotic‐assisted neurosurgical procedures.
From Concrete to Nature: Navigating Paradigm Shifts in River Management Through a Sustainability Lens
Authors: Lee Chia‐Chi , Hsueh Hsin‐Yi , Ku Ya‐Wen , Kuo Shih‐Yun , Huang Kuo‐Ching , Tung Ching‐Pin , Lo Wei‐Cheng , Lu Jing‐Chein , Cheng Yung‐Chen , Chiang Yi‐Chang , Yeh Chao‐Pin , Tseng Wen‐Hsiao , Hung Yan‐Liang , Lee Wen‐Sen
Published: February 2025

“Sustainable river management” (SRM) and “paradigm shifts in river management” (PSRM) are frequently employed in the field of river management, widely recognized by both researchers and policymakers. However, past studies often present these concepts as implicitly understood, typically addressing one in isolation without exploring the interrelationship between the two or their combined potential as a comprehensive analytical tool for practical river management. This paper aims to elucidate the connection between SRM and PSRM, proposing an integrated framework to enhance the analysis of river management practices. Using Taiwan's Keelung River as a case study, the findings reveal that the river's management history can be divided into four paradigms: “structural emergency measures,” “dominant structural measures,” “integrated water management,” and ultimately, SRM. Each paradigm reflects the negotiations, compromises, and coordination efforts of stakeholders at that time, with enduring influence on the Keelung River today. While historically effective, the long‐standing preference for flood control through levee construction now struggles to address the challenges posed by short‐duration extreme rainfall and emerging environmental and ecological management needs, testing the adaptive capacities of both central and local governments.
Root and Leaf Traits of Alfalfa Exhibit Distinct Responses to Soil Microbial Communities and Environmental Stresses
Authors: Saraswat Anuj , Tian Jing , Hraiz Fatima M. S. J. , Al Harasi Laila Z. D. , Al Mayahi Maitha H. , Alyahyaee Mariam K. H. , Gururani Mayank A. , Liu Yuan , Kumar Amit
Published: February 2025

Ongoing climate change is negatively impacting crop productivity globally. Past research has highlighted that a diverse soil microbial community and variation in plant traits for resource acquisition can mitigate the negative impacts of climate change factors on crop productivity. This study investigates the effects of two major environmental stressors—drought and salinity stress, on plant productivity, biomass allocation, and root and leaf trait responses under distinct soil microbial diversities. Our results showed that salinity stress had stronger negative impacts on plant productivity than drought stress. Shoot biomass decreased by 30% and 32.5% under drought and salinity stress, respectively, whereas the root biomass decreased by 32% only under salinity stress. Soil microbial diversity did not affect plant productivity. Next, root traits were mainly impacted by drought and salinity stress, whereas leaf traits were impacted by both environmental stresses and soil microbial diversity. Specific root length and specific root area decreased under drought, and root tissue density was minimal under salinity stress. Root traits were not affected by soil microbial communities. In contrast, the leaf nitrogen content increased, whereas pheophytin content (a breakdown product of chlorophyll) decreased when plants were grown in diverse microbial communities under environmental stresses, especially drought. These results highlight the importance of soil microbial diversity in impacting plant traits in response to environmental stresses. We showed that the soil microbial diversity influences both aboveground and belowground plant traits, indicating the need for better management practices to conserve and promote soil microbial diversity.
Effect of Coping Strategies on Perceived Stress and Hair Cortisol Levels During the COVID‐19 Pandemic According to Sex
Authors: Arcand Maryse , Zerroug Yasmine , Peyrot Clémence , Cernik Rebecca , Herba Catherine M. , Marin Marie‐France
Published: February 2025

The COVID‐19 crisis generated subjective and physiological stress, with important interindividual differences. Studies have shown that coping strategies and sex modulate subjective stress, although their effects on stress hormones have been overlooked. In addition, it remains unknown whether sex and coping interact to predict these stress metrics during long‐term stressful events. To examine the impact of coping strategies, sex, and their interaction on subjective and physiological indicators of stress during the year following the arrival of the COVID‐19 virus. Coping strategies were assessed using the Brief COPE questionnaire in May 2020. Stress symptoms were assessed as a subjective indicator of stress every 3 months (June 2020 to March 2021) with the Perceived Stress Scale questionnaire in 155 participants (49 men). Of these individuals, 111 provided a 6‐cm hair sample in June 2020 to estimate cortisol levels as a physiological indicator of stress before and during the first lockdown. A factor analysis identified three clusters of coping strategies: positive‐oriented, avoidance‐oriented, and social support. For subjective stress, a linear‐mixed model showed that women reported more stress than men. Positive‐oriented and avoidance‐oriented strategies were associated with less and more stress, respectively. An interaction between sex and coping strategies indicated a positive relationship between social support and perceived stress levels in men. However, among men and women who used this strategy infrequently, women reported higher stress levels than men. For physiological stress, a regression revealed that women had greater cortisol secretion in response to the pandemic. These findings suggest that coping and sex modulate subjective stress, whereas sex influences physiological stress.
How shareholder litigation risk influences firm orientation toward stakeholders
Authors: Park Eunyoung , Lange Donald , Jeon Chunhu
Published: February 2025

Research Summary

This study examines whether U.S. corporate executives would adopt a stronger stakeholder orientation if constraints imposed by shareholder litigation risk were relaxed. Leveraging the staggered adoption of Universal Demand (UD) laws across states as a quasi‐experimental setting, we test whether reduced litigation risk leads to managers prioritizing broader stakeholder initiatives. We find that firms increase stakeholder‐focused efforts following UD law adoption, with this shift more pronounced in firms with weaker shareholder governance provisions and lower levels of outside director ownership. Our study advances corporate governance and stakeholder theory by demonstrating how shareholder litigation risk acts as a governance mechanism that shapes managerial priorities. Additionally, we identify key boundary conditions moderating the relationship between governance constraints and stakeholder engagement.

Managerial Summary

What happens when corporate executives feel less constrained by the risk of shareholder litigation? This study examines how reducing litigation risk leads to managers shifting their focus toward initiatives that benefit broader stakeholder groups, including employees, communities, and the environment. Using state‐level legal changes as a natural experiment, we find that firms adopt a more stakeholder‐oriented approach when shareholder litigation risk decreases—particularly in firms with weaker governance mechanisms tied to shareholder oversight. These findings highlight the critical role of legal frameworks and governance structures in shaping how executives balance shareholder and stakeholder priorities. For practitioners, this underscores the function of governance systems in influencing a firm's stakeholder strategy.
Navigating market entry decisions in the solar PV industry: The role of founders' pre‐entry experience across the value chain
Authors: Guerra Mara , Clarysse Bart , Wadhwa Anu
Published: February 2025

Research Summary

In emerging industries characterized by several technological generations giving rise to multiple submarkets that emerge at different points in time, start‐ups entering with novel technologies encounter markets at varying development stages and are confronted with the choice to enter either a nascent or an established market. We study the solar photovoltaic industry between 1985 and 2017 to examine how founders' pre‐entry experience along the industry value chain helps them navigate this complex decision. We find that founders with upstream industry experience possess operational acumen and manufacturing knowledge, prompting them to favor established markets. Conversely, founders with focal industry experience, guided by their unique insights into new applications and the limitations of existing technologies in fulfilling emerging customer needs, are more inclined to enter nascent markets.

Managerial Summary

New technologies often enable fulfillment of new user needs. In emerging industries witnessing successive waves of technologies, new markets materialize at different point in times. When firms enter these industries with fungible technologies, they can target markets in the early phases of formation or markets that are more mature and well developed. Evidence from the solar PV industry shows that the experience that entrepreneurs gained before founding their start‐up in this industry influences the choice of market: founders with prior experience developing solar technologies enter markets addressing new and undefined user needs while founders with prior experience in upstream industries that supply components to the solar industry gravitate toward mature markets, which place greater value on value efficiency enhancements.