bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dispersive estimate of the
a0(980)
contribution to
(g−2)μ
Authors: Deineka Oleksandra , Danilkin Igor , Vanderhaeghen Marc
Published: February 2025

A dispersive implementation of the a0(980) resonance to (g−2)μ requires the knowledge of the double-virtual S-wave γ*γ*→πη/KK¯I=1 amplitudes. To obtain these amplitudes, we used a modified coupled-channel Muskhelishvili–Omnès formalism, with input from the left-hand cuts and the hadronic Omnès matrix. The latter was derived using a data-driven

N

/

D

method, where the hadronic left-hand cuts were approximated via a conformal expansion. Due to the absence of direct hadronic data in the πη channel, the expansion coefficients were fitted to various experimental data sets on two-photon fusion processes with πη and KK¯ final states. The resulting dispersive estimate for the a0(980) contribution to (g−2)μ is aμHLbL[a0(980)]resc=−0.44(5)×10−11, which presents an order of magnitude improvement in precision over the narrow resonance approximation.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Reduced cross section and gluon distribution in a momentum-space approach
Authors: Boroun G. R. , Ha Phuoc
Published: February 2025

We present a calculation of the reduced cross section in the momentum-space approach utilizing the Block-Durand-Ha parametrization of the proton structure function F2(x,Q2) and the leading-order longitudinal structure function FL(x,Q2), proposed by Boroun and Ha [] using Laplace transform techniques. Our results are compared with the HERA data and extended to the Large Hadron electron Collider domain. We also examine the ratio FL2(x,Q2)=FL(x,Q2)/F2(x,Q2) obtained from our work, comparing it with both the H1 data and the color dipole picture bounds. We find that our results for the reduced cross section and the ratio FL2(x,Q2) agree with the H1 data. Finally, our evaluation of the gluon distribution functions G(x,Q2) in the momentum-space approach shows very good concordance with the NNPDF3.0LO gluon structure functions for moderate Q2 in the range 10−5≤x≤1.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Quantum error mitigation for Fourier moment computation
Authors: Kiss Oriel , Grossi Michele , Roggero Alessandro
Published: February 2025

Hamiltonian moments in Fourier space—expectation values of the unitary evolution operator under a Hamiltonian at different times—provide a convenient framework to understand quantum systems. They offer insights into the energy distribution, higher-order dynamics, response functions, correlation information, and physical properties. This paper focuses on the computation of Fourier moments within the context of a nuclear effective field theory on superconducting quantum hardware. The study integrates echo verification and noise renormalization into Hadamard tests using control reversal gates. These techniques, combined with purification and error suppression methods, effectively address quantum hardware decoherence. The analysis, conducted using noise models, reveals a significant reduction in noise strength by two orders of magnitude. Moreover, quantum circuits involving up to 266 gates over five qubits demonstrate high accuracy under these methodologies when run on IBM superconducting quantum devices.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Beta-functions and RG flows for holographic QCD with heavy and light quarks: Isotropic case
Authors: Aref’eva Irina Ya. , Hajilou Ali , Slepov Pavel , Usova Marina
Published: February 2025

In a previous paper [I. Y. Aref’eva , Running coupling for holographic QCD with heavy and light quarks: Isotropic case, ], we investigated the dependence of the running coupling constant on temperature and chemical potential for holographic models of the light and heavy quarks, supported by an Einstein-dilaton-Maxwell action. In this paper, we study the dependence of the corresponding β-functions on the temperature and the chemical potential. As in the previous paper, we give special attention to the behavior of the β-functions near the first order phase transitions. We consider different types of boundary conditions for the dilaton. Only one of the possible boundary conditions yields results that agree with lattice calculations at zero chemical potential. The corresponding β-functions are negative and exhibit jumps at the first order phase transitions. We also show that the renormalization group fluxes are invariant with respect to the choice of the boundary conditions and that our exact solutions for the light and heavy quarks are unstable, as expected, given their negative dilaton potentials.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Unitarity bounds with subthreshold and anomalous cuts for
b
-hadron decays
Authors: Gopal Abinand , Gubernari Nico
Published: February 2025

We derive a generalization of the Boyd-Grinstein-Lebed (BGL) parametrization. Most form factors (FFs) in b-hadron decays exhibit additional branch cuts—namely subthreshold and anomalous branch cuts—beyond the “standard” unitarity cut. These additional cuts cannot be adequately accounted for by the BGL parametrization. For instance, these cuts arise in the FFs for B→D(*), B→K(*), and Λb→Λ processes, which are particularly relevant from a phenomenological standpoint. We demonstrate how to parametrize such FFs and derive unitarity bounds in the presence of subthreshold and/or anomalous branch cuts. Our work paves the way for a wide range of new FF analyses based solely on first principles, thereby minimizing systematic uncertainties.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Effects of Y content on the oxidation behavior of CoCrNiAl medium entropy alloys at 1,200°C
Authors: Deng Dunying , Liao Yunfan , Lin Meichao , Xiong Xiaxuan , Tong Yonggang
Published: February 2025

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to develop advanced materials with outstanding mechanical properties and high-temperature oxidation performance for their potential application in high-temperature structural components.

Design/methodology/approach

The alloy ingots with high-purity Co, Cr, Ni, Al and Y metals (= 99.9 Wt.%) were prepared in a vacuum arc melting furnace under an argon atmosphere.

Findings

This study investigated the impact of the Y content on the microstructure and oxidation behavior of CoCrNiAl medium entropy alloys at 1,200°C. All alloys exhibit a combination of ß and γ phases, with CoCrNiAlY 0.11revealing the presence of obvious sub-micron γ phase precipitates within the ß phase. The oxidation behavior of CoCrNiAlYx (x = 0.05, 0.08, 0.11) at 1,200°C demonstrates the formation of a dense oxide scale on the alloy surface. The surface with aluminum oxide accompanied by yttrium oxide exhibits improved adhesion between the matrix and oxide scale. The CoCrNiAlY0.11 alloy, with a decreased oxidation rate of 7.8 × 10–6 mg2 cm−4s−1, displays the best oxidation resistance among these alloys with varying Y content.

Originality/value

The study examines the optimal content of Y in the CoCrNiAl medium alloy and its superior oxidation behavior at 1,200°C.
Nexus between ESG scores and financial performance: evidence from the Indian banking sector
Authors: Prasad Ramesh , Mondal Amitava
Published: February 2025

Purpose

This research analyzes the impact of “Environmental, Social, and Governance” (ESG) practices on Indian banks’ performances with respect to market and operational performance.

Design/methodology/approach

This research examines 28 Indian banks (12 public sector and 16 private sector) from 2021 to 2023, using multiple regression models and a robust generalized least square (GLS) estimation. The models include Tobin’s Q (TQ) and Return on Assets (ROA) as dependent variables, while current and lagged ESG performance scores (sourced from Refinitive database) constitute the main independent variables. Additionally, five control variables specific to banks and the COVID-19 pandemic are also incorporated into the analysis.

Findings

The study reveals that ESG practices have a time sensitive impact, meaning that the current year ESG activities have a substantial influence in driving financial performance of Indian banks than past year ESG activities. The benefits derive from past year ESG activities tend to diminish over time. The findings reinforce the necessity for banks to maintain dynamic and evolving ESG framework to remain competitive. Additionally, it is also found that private banks show greater initiative in implementing ESG practices than public banks.

Practical implications

This study offers noteworthy inputs for academicians, banks, regulators and other stakeholders. Additionally, this research broadens the understanding of sustainable banking practices in Indian domain across different time horizons, offering an initial assessment of how ESG transparency affects bank performance during the post-mandatory ESG disclosure phase.

Originality/value

This research investigates the time-sensitive impacts of ESG-centric practices (considering current and lagged effect) on bank performance, undertaken after the implementation of the Reserve Bank of India’s (RBI) 2020 circular relating to mandatory ESG disclosure for the Indian commercial banks.
Interns’ quality post-COVID-19: assessing industry supervisors’ perspective
Authors: Kamaruddin Muhammad Iqmal Hisham , Mohd Saudi Hammad Farhi
Published: February 2025

Purpose

This study aims to identify and understand the quality of Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia (USIM) final-year students who began their studies with an online learning approach during the COVID-19 pandemic in internship programmes. It examines the development of these interns’ quality in terms of technical skills, analytical skills, attitudes and ethics during the internship from the perspective of industry supervisors.

Design/methodology/approach

A questionnaire survey was employed, and 280 industry supervisors of USIM final-year students undergoing internship programs in 2024 participated in this study.

Findings

The findings reveal that industry supervisors view USIM interns as having high levels of skills, attitudes and ethics, despite undergoing an online learning approach and having limited industrial engagement and exposure due to the lockdown during the COVID-19 pandemic. Furthermore, the academic background and industry sector of industry supervisors significantly influenced their views on USIM interns’ skills, attitudes and ethics.

Originality/value

This study is believed to be pioneering in identifying the quality of interns post-COVID-19, particularly in terms of skills, attitudes and ethics.
A perception-based investigation on logistics robot adoption: from an integrated perspective of trust formation and technology acceptance
Authors: Nguyen Cam Tu , Nguyen Thu Thao , Cai Lanhui , Yuen Kum Fai , Wang Xueqin
Published: February 2025

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate logistics operators’ acceptance of robots by adopting an integrated perspective of trust and technology acceptance.

Design/methodology/approach

A survey instrument was developed for data collection, targeting employees from Vietnam’s manufacturing or logistics sectors. A total of 401 valid responses were collected; the data were analysed using structural equation modelling.

Findings

Dispositional and situational trust positively influenced perceived usefulness and ease of use. Furthermore, dispositional and situational trust, perceived ease of use, and perceived usefulness collectively influenced trust in logistics robots. In addition, we found that trust in logistics robots positively affected operators’ acceptance intentions. Thus, the integrated perspectives of trust and technology acceptance were supported.

Research limitations/implications

By focusing on the interaction between operators and logistics robots, this paper’s findings extend the technology acceptance model (TAM) and enrich the theory of trust.

Practical implications

The study has significant implications for factories integrating logistics robots into production processes by elucidating the relationship between operators and logistics robots.

Originality/value

Previous research has repeatedly identified trust considerations as a critical factor influencing individuals’ automated technology usage. However, the micro-level trust formation process has received limited attention. This study explains the relationship between perspectives on trust and technology acceptance.
Prevalence and incidence of comorbidities in patients with atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, alopecia areata, and vitiligo using a Japanese claims database
Authors: Ma Yue , Chachin Motohiko , Hirose Tomohiro , Nakamura Kouki , Shi Nanzhi , Hiro Shintaro , Imafuku Shinichi
Published: February 2025

Atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, alopecia areata, and vitiligo have been associated with comorbid conditions, including infections, malignancies, and cardiovascular diseases. This study evaluated the prevalence and incidence rates of these comorbidities in patients from Japan. This retrospective cohort study used data collected from the JMDC claims database between June 2013 and December 2020. Patients with a diagnosis of atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, alopecia areata, or vitiligo were matched (1:1) by age, sex, and index month with individuals with no claims records for atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, alopecia areata, or vitiligo diagnosis. Data included 691 338, 51 988, 43 692, and 8912 patients in the atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, alopecia areata, and vitiligo cohorts, respectively, and matched controls. The most prevalent comorbidities in the atopic dermatitis cohort versus matched controls included allergic rhinitis (47% vs 37%), conjunctivitis (33% vs 23%), asthma (27% vs 20%), viral infection (22% vs 15%), and acne (11% vs 3%). Incidence rates per 100 000 person‐years of comorbidities in the atopic dermatitis cohort versus matched controls were: venous thromboembolism, 51.4 (95% confidence interval [CI], 48.3–54.7) versus 31.7 (95% CI, 29.2–34.2); lymphoma, 13.8 (95% CI,12.2–15.6) versus 5.7 (95% CI, 4.7–6.8); cutaneous T‐cell lymphoma, 1.6 (95% CI, 1.1–2.2) versus 0.1 (95% CI, 0.0–0.4); and herpes zoster, 740.9 (95% CI, 728.8–753.1) versus 397.6 (95% CI, 388.9–406.6). Similar trends were observed in the psoriasis versus nonpsoriasis cohorts, with 95% CIs mostly overlapping for alopecia areata and vitiligo cohorts versus controls. Overall, patients from Japan with dermatologic diseases have a higher prevalence and incidence of certain health conditions, particularly venous thromboembolism, lymphoma, and infections in patients with atopic dermatitis and psoriasis, compared with individuals without these dermatologic diseases.
A Rare Case of Cutaneous Intraneural Glomus Tumor
Authors: Frimpong Diana , Naz Sahar , Kadhum Murtaza , Rogut Magdalena , Farooque Taiba , O'Neill Jennifer , Fleming Ann
Published: February 2025

The cutaneous intraneural glomus tumor has been described twice in the literature and remains a rare phenomenon. We present the case of a painful cutaneous lesion on the back of a 77‐year‐old man. Histopathologic examination of the resected lesion revealed a solid dermal nodule set within an expanded peripheral nerve. Immunohistochemistry confirmed the morphological findings with an Smooth Muscle Actin (SMA) positive nodule encased by nerve fascicles demonstrating S100 positivity with a peripheral layer of Epithelial Membrane Antigen (EMA) positive perineural cells. These findings are in keeping with the previous reported cases of cutaneous intraneural glomus tumors and this entity should be considered in the differential diagnosis of painful cutaneous lesions.
The S Triple G Traits – essential traits for students
Authors: Hughes Jasmine G
Published: February 2025

Over the years, beginning with my undergraduate lab experiences, I became aware of the traits essential for success in academic study and research. The traits, which I refer to as the “S Triple G Traits” are Support, Growth mindset, Grit and Grace. Support can come from a person's family, friends, lab members, supervisors and themselves. A growth mindset is being open to the possibility of improving and overcoming obstacles. Grit can be considered the process of continuing to apply what you learn from reflection of having a growth mindset and setting it into practice. In theory, your growth mindset can be the foundation on which you can propel your grit in the right direction. Grace is taking a moment to acknowledge your setback and give yourself permission to honor and recognize all the effort you contributed. Using this combination of traits will help to equip students to achieve their goals when faced with obstacles.
Characterization of porous materials with artificial neural networks
Authors: Casaburo Alessandro , Petrone Giuseppe , Franco Francesco , De Rosa Sergio
Published: February 2025

The acoustic modeling of materials is of paramount importance for the accurate prediction of untested configurations and the development of optimal manufacturing strategies. Nevertheless, this task presents significant challenges due to the complexity of the parameters governing materials, such as porous media, each of which demands distinct experimental setups and procedures, often difficult to implement. Inverse methods for parameter estimation rely on physical approximations and require experimental protocols that are highly sensitive to boundary conditions, rendering the process both expensive and time-consuming. This study investigates the efficacy of machine learning techniques, particularly artificial neural networks, in determining the parameters of the Johnson-Champoux-Allard (JCA) model for porous samples, with a specific emphasis on the mutual influence of input features on network performance. Building upon these insights, a hierarchical artificial neural network-based procedure is proposed and validated using experimental data to predict the JCA parameters with minimal error.
β-Lactamase diversity in
Acinetobacter baumannii
Authors: Mack Andrew R. , Hujer Andrea M. , Mojica Maria F. , Taracila Magdalena A. , Feldgarden Michael , Haft Daniel H. , Klimke William , Prasad Arjun B. , Bonomo Robert A.
Published: February 2025

Acinetobacter baumannii
is a clinically important, Gram-negative pathogen responsible for a wide variety of nosocomial and community-acquired infections. Antibiotic resistance is a serious concern, as the organism has a wide variety of intrinsic resistance mechanisms, including chromosomal class C (
bla
ADC
) and D (
bla
OXA-51
family) β-lactamases, and the ability to readily acquire additional β-lactamases. Surveillance studies can reveal the diversity and distribution of β-lactamase alleles, but are difficult and expensive to conduct. Herein, we describe an approach using publicly available data derived from whole genome sequences, to explore the diversity and distribution of β-lactamase alleles across 28,330 isolates. The most common intrinsic alleles at the time of writing were
bla
ADC-73
,
bla
ADC-30
,
bla
ADC-222
,
bla
ADC-33
, and
bla
OXA-66
, and the most common acquired allele was
bla
OXA-23
. Interestingly, only 63.0% of assigned
bla
ADC
alleles were encountered and the 10 most common
bla
ADC
and intrinsic
bla
OXA
alleles represented approximately 75% of their respective gene totals while dozens were extremely infrequent. Differences were observed over time and geography. Surprisingly, more distinct unassigned (i.e., lacking a
bla
ADC
or
bla
OXA
number) alleles were encountered than distinct, assigned alleles. Understanding the diversity and distribution of β-lactamase alleles helps to prioritize variants for further research, selects targets for drug development, and may aid in selecting therapies for a given infection.
Cefepime–taniborbactam and ceftibuten–ledaborbactam maintain activity against KPC variants that lead to ceftazidime–avibactam resistance
Authors: Myers Cullen L. , Stevenson Annie , Miller Brittany , Daigle Denis M. , Uehara Tsuyoshi , Pevear Daniel C.
Published: February 2025

Klebsiella pneumoniae
carbapenemases (KPCs) are widespread β-lactamases that are a major cause of clinical non-susceptibility of Gram-negative bacteria to carbapenems and other β-lactam antibiotics. Ceftazidime combined with the β-lactamase inhibitor avibactam (CAZ–AVI) has been effective in treating infections by KPC-producing bacteria, but emerging KPC variants confer resistance to the combination. Taniborbactam and ledaborbactam are bicyclic boronate β-lactamase inhibitors currently under development with cefepime and ceftibuten, respectively, to treat carbapenem-resistant bacterial infections. Here, we assessed the effects of clinically important KPC-2 and KPC-3 variants (V240G, D179Y, and D179Y/T243M) on the antibacterial activity of cefepime–taniborbactam (FEP–TAN) and ceftibuten–ledaborbactam (CTB–LED) and examined catalytic activity and inhibition of these variants. Unlike CAZ–AVI, FEP–TAN and CTB–LED were highly active against
Escherichia coli
strains expressing these KPC variants. Experiments with purified enzymes showed that FEP and CTB were poorly hydrolyzed by the KPC variants and had weak affinity for variants containing D179Y. In addition, the D179Y substitution in KPC-2 reduced inhibition by TAN and LED, but inactivation efficiencies (
k
2
/
K
) for these inhibitors were significantly higher than those for AVI.
K
2
/
K
was less affected for D179Y-containing KPC-3 variants, and robust inhibition was observed by TAN, LED, and AVI. Together, the findings illustrate a biochemical basis for FEP–TAN and CTB–LED efficacy in KPC variant-mediated CAZ–AVI resistance backgrounds, whereby the boronate inhibitors have sufficient inhibitory activity, while FEP and CTB are poor substrates and bind to the variant enzymes with reduced affinity.
Relevance of oncobiome in breast cancer evolution in an Argentine cohort
Authors: Dandeu Leonardo Néstor Rubén , Lachovsky Joel , Sidlik Sofía , Marenco Pablo , Orschanski Daniela , Aguilera Pablo , Vázquez Martín , Carballo María del Pilar , Fernández Elmer , Penas-Steinhardt Alberto , Chasseing Norma Alejandra , Labovsky Vivian
Published: February 2025

Breast cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths in women worldwide, with about 20,000 cases annually in Argentina. While age, diet, and genetics are known risk factors, most breast cancer cases have unknown causes, necessitating the discovery of new risk factors. The aim of this study was the analysis of the prognostic relevance of the oncobiome in Argentinean breast cancer patients. Sequencing of the V4 region 16S rRNA gene was performed on 34 primary breast tumor samples, using bioinformatic and statistical analyses to identify bacteria and hypothetical pathways. Each sample presented a unique microbial profile, with
Proteobacteria
being the most abundant phylum. Tumors >2 cm showed greater alpha diversity with increased nucleotide biosynthesis. Moreover, progesterone-receptor tumors showed differences in beta diversity, being progesterone receptor-positive tumors that had the highest expression of
Acinetobacter
and
Moraxella
. In disease progression, the phylum
Chloroflexi
was prevalent in tumors of surviving patients.
Acinetobacter
and
Cloacibacterium
genera were significantly higher in patients without events and those without metastasis. We found that nucleotide and cell-structure biosynthesis, and lipid metabolism pathways were enriched in tumors with poor progression, whereas amino-acid degradation was increased in tumors of surviving patients. This finding is an indication that tumor cells are taking advantage of this effect of the microbiome during tumor progression. We conclude that oncobiome is dysbiotic in these patients, with distinct patterns in those with poor progression. Suggesting a link between the oncobiome and cancer progression, paving the way for new therapies to improve patient quality of life and survival.

IMPORTANCE

This is the first study to investigate the relevance of the oncobiome in the evolution of breast cancer in a cohort of Argentine patients. It also highlights the need for further research in this area to improve our understanding of the role of the microbiome in this disease and potentially identify new therapeutic targets or prognostic indicators. Understanding the complex interaction between the microbiome, the tumor microenvironment, and the pathogenesis of breast cancer holds the promise of more personalized and effective treatment approaches in the future.
Fiber, microbiomes, and SCFAs: insights from companion animal models to inform personalized nutrition
Authors: Frame Leigh A.
Published: February 2025

A recent study by A. Bhosle, M. I. Jackson, A. M. Walsh, E. A. Franzosa, et al. (mSystems 10:e00452-24, 2024,
https://doi.org/10.1128/msystems.00452-24
) enhances our understanding of dietary fiber’s impact on the gut microbiome and metabolome in companion animals, uncovering individual variations in microbial and metabolic responses. By examining short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) profiles in response to fiber, the authors reveal potential therapeutic benefits of tailored dietary interventions, such as enhanced gut and immune health. These findings resonate with human microbiome research, where dietary fiber has shown health benefits through microbial diversity and SCFA production. The study emphasizes the potential for breed-specific responses to fiber, given the variation in microbiome composition and physiology across breeds. Such insights align with emerging concepts of personalized nutrition, offering an opportunity to develop precision dietary strategies that address specific health needs in both veterinary and human contexts. This foundational research positions dietary fiber as a valuable tool in preventive health, providing a roadmap for future studies to refine individualized approaches for gut microbiome modulation.
Relationship between sleep disorders and depressive symptoms among young women in Japan: a web-based cross-sectional study
Authors: Tashiro Tsubasa , Maeda Noriaki , Mizuta Rami , Abekura Takeru , Oda Sakura , Onoue Satoshi , Arima Satoshi , Suzuki Yuta , Urabe Yukio
Published: February 2025

Objectives

Japanese people are known to get the least amount of sleep in the world, and in particular, the increase in sleep deprived young women is a serious problem. Sleep deprivation is considered to be associated with depression, but the factors involved in this problem are unclear. This study aimed to examine the association between sociodemographic factors, lifestyle choices, sleep-related characteristics and depressive symptoms in young Japanese women.

Design

Web-based cross-sectional study.

Participants

We distributed an online survey aiming to recruit young Japanese women ages 18 to 29 from 8 November 2022 to 2 February 2023.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

Sociodemographic, lifestyle, health, and sleep characteristics were compared among participants according to the presence or absence of depressive symptoms, as assessed by the Patient Health Questionnaire 2 (Cut-off value: 3 points).

Results

Overall, 540 participants aged between 19 and 29 years were enrolled in the study. The overall prevalence of depressive symptoms was 15.6%. The group with depressive symptoms had a higher rate of current smoking status at 38.5% (unadjusted OR 3.716, 95% CI 1.624 to 8.502). Multiple logistic analyses revealed that depressive symptoms were associated with increased sleep onset latency (β=0.282; p=0.048; OR, 1.325; 95% CI, 1.003 to 1.752) and daytime dysfunction (β=0.550; p<0.001; OR, 1.733; 95% CI, 1.281 to 2.343) after adjusting for the effects of smoking habits.

Conclusions

Depressive symptoms were found to be associated with sleep disorders in young Japanese women, and paying attention to sleep onset latency and daytime dysfunction which are one of the strongest related factors to depressive symptoms could be a clue to improving sleep disorders and depressive symptoms.
Efficacy of Chinese traditional quadruple single pill combination versus valsartan/hydrochlorothiazide for the treatment of hypertension (COSPQ-BP): study protocol for randomised controlled study
Authors: Jia Shanshan , Zhang Xin , Yang Xiangyu , Ye Runyu , Yao Yuanyuan , Liu Lu , Zuo Xianghao , Li Yanan , Yan Yu , Liu Kai , Wang Si , Meng Qingtao , Chen Xiaoping
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Hypertension constitutes the primary health burden of cardiovascular diseases, and the global control of blood pressure (BP) remains insufficient. Single pill combinations (SPCs) are employed as a means to streamline the management of poor BP control due to non-adherence and treatment inertia. The compound reserpine and triamterene tablets constitute a quadruple SPC, comprising reserpine 0.1 mg, dihydralazine 12.5 mg, hydrochlorothiazide 12.5 mg and triamterene 12.5 mg. It is widely employed in primary medical institutions and has favourable efficacy, tolerability and cost-effectiveness.

Methods and analysis

The COSPQ-BP trial is a 12-week prospective randomised controlled trial to enrol 1332 patients with primary mild-to-moderate hypertension. Participants who meet the inclusion criteria will be randomly assigned to a 1:1 ratio to an intervention group (compound reserpine and triamterene tablets) or a control group (valsartan/hydrochlorothiazide). The primary outcome will be mean changes from baseline in 24-hour ambulatory systolic BP after intervention for 12 weeks. The secondary outcomes have been predetermined and will primarily encompass the following: (1) changes in other BP measures, as well as changes in blood lipids, blood glucose and uric acid at 12 weeks and (2) evaluation of the impact of starting antihypertensive therapy with compound reserpine and triamterene tablets or valsartan/hydrochlorothiazide on the depressive and anxiety statess of patients.

Ethics and dissemination

The study protocol (version number: V5.0, version date: 17 January 2023) has been approved by the ethics committee (Biomedical Ethics Committee of West China Hospital of Sichuan University, approval number: Review (51) in 2023). Written informed consent will be obtained from each participant by researchers. The findings of this study will be disseminated through conference presentations and peer-reviewed publications.

Trial registration

This study was registered at the Chinese Clinical Trials Registry (ChiCTR2300067920). The COSPQ-BP trial is currently enrolling. The study period will be from 1 January 2024 to 31 December 2025.
Can physical and psychological factors predict pain recurrence or an exacerbation of persistent non-specific low back pain? A protocol for a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Wongwitwichote Kanya , Yu Cho Wai Geoffrey , Mansfield Michael , Deane Janet , Falla Deborah
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Low back pain (LBP) is a global health concern. Approximately two-thirds of those who recover from LBP experience a relapse within a year, with many chronic cases encountering acute flare-ups (exacerbation). This systematic review will synthesise and analyse whether physical and/or psychological features can predict recurrent episodes of LBP or exacerbation of pain.

Methods and analysis

This systematic review protocol follows the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis Protocols guidelines. Comprehensive literature searches will be conducted in MEDLINE, EMBASE, APA PsycInfo, PubMed, CINAHL Plus, Web of Science, Scopus and ZETOC, spanning from each database’s inception through to January 2025. Google Scholar and grey literature sources, including OpenGrey, will also be searched to ensure comprehensive coverage. Two independent reviewers will screen titles, abstracts and full texts, assessing the risk of bias with a modified Quality in Prognosis Studies tool. The overall certainty of evidence will be evaluated using an adapted Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation approach. If sufficient data homogeneity is present, a meta-analysis will be performed; otherwise, findings will be synthesised narratively. The results will identify the ability of physical and/or psychological factors to predict pain recurrence or acute exacerbation in case of persistent non-specific LBP.

Ethics and dissemination

This study protocol does not present any ethical concerns. The findings from the systematic review will be submitted for publication in a peer-reviewed journal and will also be presented at relevant conferences.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42024599514.
Will it Fit? Verifying Heap Space Bounds of Concurrent Programs under Garbage Collection
Authors: Moine Alexandre , Charguéraud Arthur , Pottier François
Published: February 2025

We present IrisFit, a Separation Logic with space credits for reasoning about heap space in a concurrent call-by-value language equipped with tracing garbage collection and shared mutable state.

We point out a fundamental difficulty in the analysis of the worst-case heap space complexity of concurrent programs in the presence of tracing garbage collection: if garbage collection phases and program steps can be arbitrarily interleaved, then there exist undesirable scenarios where a root held by a sleeping thread prevents a possibly large amount of memory from being freed.

To remedy this problem and eliminate such undesirable scenarios, we propose several language features, namely possibly-blocking memory allocation, polling points, and protected sections. Polling points are meant to be automatically inserted by the compiler; protected sections are delimited by the programmer and represent regions where no polling points must be inserted.

The heart of our contribution is IrisFit, a novel program logic that can establish worst-case heap space complexity bounds and whose reasoning rules can take advantage of the presence of protected sections. IrisFit is formalized inside the Coq proof assistant, on top of the Iris Separation Logic framework. We prove that IrisFit offers both a safety guarantee—programs cannot crash and cannot exceed a heap space limit—and a liveness guarantee—provided enough polling points have been inserted, every memory allocation request is satisfied in bounded time. We illustrate the use of IrisFit via several case studies, including a version of Treiber's stack whose worst-case behavior relies on the presence of protected sections.
Side Channel Attacks on GPRS Standard Encryption Algorithms
Authors: Wu Zheng , Ding Lin , Li Zhengting , Wang Xinhai , Guan Ziyu
Published: February 2025

GEA-1 and its successor GEA-2 are stream ciphers that were selected as the General Packet Radio Service (GPRS) standard encryption algorithms, used to protect the communication between phones and base stations from eavesdropping. These stream ciphers, once widely used for GPRS encryption in the late 1990s and early 2000s, are surprisingly still supported in many current mobile phones and in numerous developing regions even today. GEA-2a is a more secure, improved version of GEA-2 designed by Ding et al. in 2022. Side channel attack (SCA) utilizes easily accessible information from cryptographic devices, such as power consumption, electromagnetic radiation, and runtime, to obtain secret information in the cryptographic systems. Side channel attack is a powerful attack method that has been successfully applied in many stream ciphers, such as TRIVIUM and GRAIN-128-AEAD. In this paper, We put forward a automated framework that can mount side channel attack on stream ciphers with structures similar to the GPRS standard encryption algorithms GEA-1 and GEA-2. We use the Satisfiability Model Theory (SMT) for modeling, while considering the software and hardware implementation of the algorithms, and use Microsoft’s open-source solver Z3 to solve the constructed instances. The experimental results indicate that the internal states of GEA-1, GEA-2 and GEA-2a in keystream generation phase can be recovered practically under HW/32 model. For models where the solution time is too long, by guessing a small number of bits, the state bits can be fully recovered within an acceptable time. Our automated framework is effective in both noiseless and noisy trace scenarios.
Role of TGF-β/SMAD/YAP/TAZ signaling in skeletal muscle fibrosis
Authors: Gallardo Felipe S. , Cruz-Soca Meilyn , Bock-Pereda Alexia , Faundez-Contreras Jennifer , Gutiérrez-Rojas Cristian , Gandin Alessandro , Torresan Veronica , Casar Juan Carlos , Ravasio Andrea , Brandan Enrique
Published: February 2025

Skeletal muscle fibrosis is strongly associated with the differentiation of its resident multipotent fibro/adipogenic progenitors (FAPs) towards the myofibroblast phenotype. Although TGF-β signaling is well-known for driving FAPs differentiation and fibrosis, due to its pleiotropic functions its complete inhibition is not suitable for treating fibrotic disorders such as muscular dystrophies. Here, we describe that TGF-β operates through the mechanosensitive transcriptional regulators YAP/TAZ to determine the myofibroblast fate of FAPs and skeletal muscle fibrosis. Spatial transcriptomics analyses of dystrophic and acute injured muscles showed that areas with active fibrosis and TGF-β signaling displayed high YAP/TAZ activity. Using a TGF-β-driven fibrotic mouse model, we found that activation of YAP/TAZ in activated FAPs is associated with the fibrotic process. Mechanistically, primary culture of FAPs reveals the remarkable ability of TGF-β1 to activate YAP/TAZ through its canonical SMAD3 pathway. Moreover, inhibition of YAP/TAZ, either by disrupting its activity (with Verteporfin) or cellular mechanotransduction (with the Rho inhibitor C3 or soft matrices), decreased TGF-β1-dependent FAPs differentiation into myofibroblasts. In vivo, administration of Verteporfin in mice limits the deposition of collagen and fibronectin, and the activation of FAPs during the development of fibrosis. Overall, our work provides robust evidence for considering YAP/TAZ as a potential target in muscular fibroproliferative disorders.
Characteristics, Triggers, Treatments, and Experimental Models of Neonatal Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome
Authors: Mohammadi Atefeh , De Luca Daniele , Gauda Estelle B.
Published: February 2025

Neonatal acute respiratory distress syndrome (NARDS) is a severe and potentially life-threatening form of lung injury recently defined by the International Neonatal ARDS Consensus. It is marked by extensive lung inflammation and damage to the alveolar epithelium and vascular endothelium. NARDS can be triggered by direct inflammatory exposures, such as pneumonia and aspiration, and indirect exposures, including sepsis, necrotizing enterocolitis, and chorioamnionitis. This review provides clinicians and researchers with the latest insights on NARDS. We adopt a cross-disciplinary approach to discuss the diagnostic criteria, pathobiology, triggers, epidemiology, and treatments of NARDS. Additionally, we summarize existing clinical studies and advanced preclinical models that help address current knowledge gaps. Future research should focus on standardizing the Montreux consensus definition of NARDS in preclinical and clinical studies, identifying biomarkers, developing prediction models, and exploring novel therapies for affected infants.
Sample size estimations based on human microbiome temporal stability over six months: a shallow shotgun metagenome sequencing analysis
Authors: Zouiouich Semi , Wan Yunhu , Vogtmann Emily , Porras Carolina , Abnet Christian C. , Shi Jianxin , Sinha Rashmi
Published: February 2025

Background: Biological factors impact the human microbiome, highlighting the need for reasonably estimating sample sizes in future population studies. Methods: We assessed the temporal stability of fecal microbiome diversity, species composition, and genes and functional pathways through shallow shotgun metagenome sequencing. Using intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC), we measured biological variability over six months. We estimated case numbers for 1:1 or 1:3 matched case-control studies, considering significance levels of 0.05 and 0.001 with 80% power, based on the collected fecal specimens per participant. Results: The fecal microbiome's temporal stability over six months varied (ICC <0.6) for most alpha and beta diversity metrics. Heterogeneity was seen in species, genes, and pathways stability (ICC 0.0–0.9). Detecting an odds ratio of 1.5 per standard deviation required 1,000–5,000 cases (0.05 significance for alpha and beta; 0.001 for species, genes, pathways) with equal cases and controls. Low-prevalent species needed 15,102 cases; high-prevalent species required 3,527. Similar needs applied to genes and pathways. In a 1:3 matched case-control study with one fecal specimen, 10,068 cases were needed for low-prevalent species; 2,351 for high-prevalent species. For odds ratios of 1.5 with multiple specimens, cases needed for low-prevalent species were 15,102 (one specimen), 8,267 (two specimens), and 5,989 (three specimens). Conclusions: Detecting disease associations requires a large number of cases. Repeating prediagnostic samples and matching cases to more controls could decrease the needed number of cases for such detections. Impact: Our results will help future epidemiologic studies design and implement well-powered microbiome studies.
Magnetic resonance imaging measures of fat distribution and risk of cancer
Authors: Peila Rita , Rohan Thomas E.
Published: February 2025

Background Excess adiposity has been associated with an increased risk of several types of cancer. The relationship of fat tissue distribution in the body with these outcomes is less well known. Using data from the UK Biobank imaging substudy, we evaluated the prospective relationship between MRI-derived measurements of adipose tissue distribution and the risk of the major site-specific cancers associated with obesity. Methods Between 2014 and 2023, MRI measurements on adipose tissue distribution and volume were obtained from 49,044 (52.2% women) cancer-free UK Biobank participants. Quantitative MRI data included volumes of visceral and subcutaneous adipose tissues (VAT and ASAT), total abdominal fat/height squared (TAT/h2), and muscle fat infiltration (MFI). Cox proportional hazard models adjusted for cancer-specific risk factors were used to generate hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CI). Results Incident cancer cases of the breast (N+179), endometrium (n=30), colorectum (n=145), and kidney (n=50) were ascertained over a median follow-up of 4.5 years. In women, VAT, TAT/h2, and MFI were positively associated with risk of postmenopausal breast cancer, and ASAT was associated with increased risk of endometrial cancer. In men, VAT and TAT/h2 were positively associated with risk of colorectal cancer, while ASAT was associated with increased risk of kidney cancer. Conclusions The present study showed that increasing volumes of VAT, ASAT and MFI were associated with cancer at specific organ-sites, indicating a potential role for adipose tissue distribution in influencing cancer risk. Impact Both visceral and subcutaneous fat may have an impact on the risk of certain cancers.
Safety and efficacy of copanlisib in combination with nivolumab: a Phase Ib study in patients with advanced solid tumors
Authors: Carneiro Benedito A. , Jotte Robert M. , Gabrail Nashat Y. , Wentzel Kristopher , Huang Funan , Chaturvedi Shalini , Weispfenning Anke , Hiemeyer Florian , Morcos Peter N. , Mongay Soler Lidia , Childs Barrett H. , Hansen Aaron R.
Published: February 2025

Purpose: Copanlisib in combination with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) demonstrated synergy and favorable anti-tumor immune responses in preclinical models. This study evaluated copanlisib plus nivolumab in adults with advanced solid tumors. Patients and Methods: In this Phase Ib, non-randomized, open-label, dose-escalation study, patients received intravenous nivolumab 240 mg (day 15 of cycle 1 and days 1 and 15 of subsequent cycles) plus intravenous copanlisib (45 or 60 mg on days 1, 8, and 15 of each cycle) in 28-day cycles. The primary objective was to determine the maximum tolerated dose and/or recommended Phase II dose (RP2D) of copanlisib plus nivolumab. Secondary objectives were safety, tolerability, and efficacy. Exploratory objectives included evaluation of potentially predictive biomarkers. Results: Overall, 16 patients were treated (copanlisib: 45 mg [n=5]; 60 mg [n=11]). The most common cancer types at baseline were bladder (25.0%) and oropharyngeal (18.8%). No dose-limiting toxicities were observed; copanlisib 60 mg was deemed the RP2D in combination with nivolumab 240 mg. Grade 3 and 4 treatment-emergent adverse events were reported in 56.3% and 12.5% of patients, respectively; one grade 5 event was reported (unrelated to treatment). Overall, 18.8% of patients achieved a partial response. Evaluations of potential biomarkers did not correlate with response, but copanlisib-modulated biomarker changes were observed before nivolumab administration and were consistent and dose-dependent. Conclusions: No new safety concerns were identified with this combination, and preliminary efficacy indicated an anti-tumor effect. Data supported an immunomodulatory effect of copanlisib, suggesting that this combination may enhance the efficacy of ICIs.
Enhancing Criminology Students’ Mathematics Problem-Solving Ability Through Criminology-Based Word Problem Strategy (CBWPS)
Authors: Mosquiter-Bentoy Joy , Evardo Jr. Orville J. , Itaas Estela
Published: February 2025

The study aimed to enhance criminology students’ mathematics problem-solving abilities using a criminology-based word problem strategy (CBWPS) and to explore their experiences and coping mech-anisms with this approach. Employing a mixed-method explanatory sequential design, the quantitative phase utilized a quasi-experimental one-group pretest-posttest framework with 38 partici-pants, while the qualitative phase involved phenomenological in-depth interviews with 10 students. Results revealed a significant im-provement in students' problem-solving skills, with a marked in-crease in post-test scores compared to pre-test results (mean gain: 8.11, p<0.05). The intervention fostered critical thinking and en-gagement by contextualizing mathematical concepts in criminology scenarios, making learning more relevant. However, students faced challenges such as unfamiliar terminologies and difficulties with complex calculations. They coped by analyzing problems carefully and drawing motivation from their aspirations. The study recommends training mathematics educators in implementing CBWPS and inte-grating such strategies into criminology curricula to enhance analyti-cal skills and professional preparedness.