bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Current utilization trend of immortalized mast cell lines in allergy research: a systematic review
Authors: Yip Ashley Jia Wen , Lee Yu Zhao , Kow Audrey Siew Foong , Wong Carisa Su-Ann , Lee Ming-Tatt , Tham Chau Ling , Tan Ji Wei
Published: January 2025

Today, in the modern world, allergic diseases, also described as atopic allergies, are classified as a type of multifactorial disorder due to the complex interplay between genetics, environment, and socioeconomic factors that influence the disease’s manifestation, severity, and one’s predisposition to allergic diseases. It is undeniable that many reported studies have pointed out that the mast cell is one of the leading key players involved in triggering an allergic reaction. To improve our understanding of the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying allergy, various mast cell lines have been employed in vitro to study the pathogenesis of allergic diseases for the past decades. However, there is no consensus on many fundamental aspects associated with their use, such as the effects of culture media composition and the type of inducer used for cell degranulation. As the standardization of research protocols and disease models is crucial, we present the outcome of a systematic review of scientific articles using three major immortalized in vitro mast cell lines (HMC-1, LAD2, and RBL-2H3) to study allergy. This systematic review described the cell source, culture conditions, inducers used for degranulation, and mediators released for examination. We hope that the present systematic review may help to standardize the use of immortalized in vitro mast cell lines in allergy research and serve as a user’s guide to understand the fundamental aspects of allergy as well to develop an effective allergy therapy in the future for the betterment of human good health and wellbeing.
Silymarin: a promising modulator of apoptosis and survival signaling in cancer
Authors: Sharma Ujjawal , Sahni Praveen Kumar , Sharma Bunty , Gupta Madhu , Kaur Damandeep , Mathkor Darin Mansor , Haque Shafiul , Khatoon Sabiha , Tuli Hardeep Singh , Mishra Astha , Ahmad Faraz
Published: January 2025

Cancer, one of the deadliest diseases, has remained the epicenter of biological research for more than seven decades. Yet all the efforts for a perfect therapeutic cure come with certain limitations. The use of medicinal plants and their phytochemicals as therapeutics has received much attention in recent years. Silymarin, a polyphenolic flavonoid with a variety of anti-cancerous properties, was isolated from the plant Silybum marianum. The present review centres on the function of silymarin in controlling important signalling pathways related to apoptosis and survival, such as the JAK/STAT pathway, PI3K/Akt/mTOR, Bcl-2/Bax, and Fas/FasL. It is emphasised that silymarin's capacity to target these pathways is a key mechanism behind its anticancer effects against a variety of malignancies. By upregulating pro-apoptotic and downregulating anti-apoptotic proteins, silymarin controls a series of events that result in tumor suppression and cell death in a variety of cancer types. The low bioavailability and limited therapeutic efficacy of silymarin are improved by the application of various nano-delivery systems. As efficient carriers, liposomes, polymeric micelles, lipid- and metal-based nanoparticles, increase the solubility and distribution of silymarin in target tissues. Lastly, a number of preclinical studies that provide a basis for upcoming therapeutic interventions are highlighted in the review, providing encouraging directions for additional research and advancement.
Aging and tumors: a dynamic interaction
Authors: Zhang Yudi , Zhu Siqiang , Liu Zhaodong , Hu Yonghao , Zhang Yongjian , Shang Liang , Li Leping
Published: January 2025

Aging is an inevitable physiological process in organisms, and the development of tumors is closely associated with cellular senescence. This article initially examines the role of cellular senescence in tumorigenesis, emphasizing the correlation between telomere length—a marker of cellular senescence—and tumor risk. Concurrently, the study explores the expression levels of senescence-associated markers, such as p16, p53, and mTOR, in the context of tumor development. Additionally, the study investigates the impact of tumors on cellular and organismal senescence, including the effects on immune system function and metabolic processes. Ultimately, the discussion explores the potential application of anti-aging strategies in tumor therapy and considers the possibility of utilizing senescence mechanisms as a novel therapeutic approach for tumors. This research provides novel insights into the complex interplay between senescence and tumor development, suggesting potential strategies for future preventative measures and therapeutic interventions.
“This Community has to Self-Regulate”: Resilience in Alt-Sex Practitioners’ Responses to Consent Violations
Authors: Moxie Jessamyn , Benson J. Kevin , Wright Susan , McCabe Sean , Moody Brianna , Willard Jessica , Stambaugh Russell , Cramer Robert J.
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Alt-sex (i.e., BDSM, kink, leather, polyamory and open relationships) practitioners are marginalized. They face violations of their consent, including but not limited to sexual consent. Although consent violations can lead to negative outcomes, resilience describes mobilizing resources and assets to mitigate these effects. Resilience related to consent violations among alt-sex practitioners is under-researched.

Methods

We conducted an international electronic survey focused on experiences with consent violations from 2019 to 2020. We analyzed open-ended survey responses related to resilience from 1711 alt-sex practitioners.

Results

We find evidence of individual and interpersonal strategies supporting resilience, and community aspects that challenge resilience in relation to consent violations. The intrapersonal level included mindfulness, coping and self-care, and calculated risk-taking. At the interpersonal level, participants described communication, social support, and development of trust. The community level included climate and authorities. The development of trust and social support, both at the interpersonal level, are linked to the community level, such as community climate.

Conclusions

Alt-sex practitioners may benefit from resilience-strengthening interventions, and alt-sex practitioners’ approaches to consent violations may be applicable to the broader population in building resilience.

Policy Implications

While legal and health policies exclude or stigmatize alt-sex practitioners, our findings support the importance of alternative recommendations or guidelines (e.g., the Model Penal Code related to sexual assault, clinical practice guidelines related to alt-sex).
Two-Dimensional Reconstructed Image of a Subsurface Structure Using Continuous Scanned Photothermal Imaging
Authors: Kim Moojoong , Kim Hyunjung
Published: January 2025

This study presents the two-dimensional (2D) image of a subsurface structure reconstructed using an imaging method based on the photothermal effect. The photothermal imaging method is based on the deflection method using two lasers: pump and probe lasers. A continuous scanning technique is proposed for 2D (x- and y-directions) surface scanning. The continuous scanning method is compared with the conventional point-by-point scanning technique, and a low-pass fast Fourier transform filter and a Marr-Hildreth detector are found to produce significant results. The photothermal imaging method with continuous 2D surface scanning is performed on three copper-resin double-layer samples with different subsurface structures. The subsurface structures of the copper-resin double-layer samples comprise a square block of 5×5 mm2 area and blocks shaped as the alphabet letters “T” and “F”. The letters are 3 mm wide and 10×13 mm2 in area. All three shapes are 1 mm thick and located at a depth of 0.5 mm from the surface of the copper block. The reconstructed photothermal images show an absolute error within 0.122 mm compared with the actual subsurface structure, equivalent to a 2.3% relative error.
Are We Adequately Promoting Climate Change Adaptation to Address the Increasing Heatwaves Affecting the Elderly?
Authors: Hutton Alison , Maud Kim , Giggins Helen , Skipp Michela , Verdon-Kidd Danielle
Published: January 2025

Australia is a significant hotspot for heatwaves due to its geographical location and pronounced climatic variability, and heatwave exposure is expected to further increase in the future with anthropogenic climate change. With the intent to support United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 3 (Good health and well-being) and 13 (Climate action), in this study we identified key challenges and opportunities for adapting to heatwaves, focusing on the most vulnerable members of our community—older adults. A naturalistic, qualitative approach was selected for this study. Data were collected via semistructured interviews. Key insights were captured through a series of semistructured interviews with key informants from local government agencies and community groups that provide care for older adults in New South Wales, Australia. Questions centered around current preventative measures adopted by the organization regarding heatwaves, level of heatwave knowledge of local residents, and common effects of heatwaves in the local community. The findings highlight four primary challenges: (1) increasing duration and intensity of heatwaves; (2) lack of knowledge among older adults regarding symptoms and the effect on the body; (3) the financial and social impacts of heatwaves; and (4) inadequate urban planning practices and building codes including the need for the creation of cool and green spaces. This study provides important insights for protecting our most vulnerable populations from the growing threat of heatwaves.
Evaluation of the Microstructural, Mechanical, Tribological, and Corrosion Properties of Zinc-Based Composites Reinforced Silica Beach Sand Particulates
Authors: Ogbonna V. E. , Popoola O. M. , Popoola A. P. I. , Mashoeu O. C. , Adeosun S. O.
Published: January 2025

In this study, the characterization of mechanical, tribological, and corrosion behavior of silica sand-reinforced zinc (Zn) alloy composites was carried out. The zinc alloy matrix composites were developed at 0- and 10-wt% SiO2 sand particulates reinforcement using stir-casting technique. Microstructural examination, mechanical, tribological, and corrosion behavior evaluation of the composites were conducted using scanning electron microscope/optical microscope, nanoindentation test, tribometer device, and potentiodynamic tester, respectively. Results obtained from the microstructural analysis revealed that the SiO2 particulates were well dispersed into the zinc-based alloy matrix. The addition of SiO2 sand particles into the Zn alloy matrix improved its hardness and elastic modulus by approximately 48.4% and 16.2%, respectively. Additionally, the wear test and corrosion test revealed that the wear rate and corrosion rate of the composites decreased with the SiO2 sand particles incorporation, which indicates SiO2 sand reinforcement efficiency on improving the wear resistance and corrosion resistance of the Zn-based alloy materials and a guide for a better control of their wear and corrosion. These findings suggest the potential usability of SiO2 sand particle-reinforced Zn-based alloy composite materials for specific mechanical load-bearing, friction, and corrosion control applications.
Development and Evaluation of Machine Learning Based Predictive Models for Tribological Properties of Blended Coatings at Elevated Temperature
Authors: Jatavallabhula Jagadesh Kumar , Shabana Shabana , Pappula Bridjesh
Published: January 2025

The current research is undertaken to evaluate the Tribological properties like wear and Coefficient of Friction (CoF) of three popular blended coatings on a mild steel substrate at elevated temperature. The scope of the research also includes predicting the tribological properties by employing three Machine Learning (ML) based predictive models viz. Elastic Net, k-NN and Random Forest regressions. The regressions are fit and tested at different proportions of Training and Testing data to find the best proportion. Random Forest regression is observed to be the best fit based on the acceptable values of MSE and R-Squared. Random Forest regression model of wear yielded MSE and R-Squared values as 22.01 and 0.95 for Coating 1, 5.75 and 1 for Coating 2, and 14.13 and 1 for Coating 3, respectively. Likewise, Random Forest regression model of CoF yielded MSE and R-Squared values as 0.01 and 0.99 for Coating 1, 0 and 1 for Coating 2, and 0 and 1 for Coating 3, respectively. The deviation between the experimental and predicted results (tested data: experimental runs 3, 14, and 29) in wear using the Random Forest algorithm for Coating 1, Coating 2, and Coating 3 is found to be 21.18%, − 2.72%, and 0.42%; − 4.54%, − 13.87, and 2.57%; 11.85%, 1.69%, and 1.89%, respectively. The deviation for CoF is found to be 6.29%, 1.56%, and 2.93%; − 0.86%, − 0.56%, and 0.20%; 0.85%, − 0.19%, and 0.17%, respectively. The variance between the actual experimental and predicted results from Random Forest regression is observed to be relatively acceptable.
Beyond the blockchain hype: addressing legal and regulatory challenges
Authors: Zhuk Alesia
Published: January 2025

Blockchain technology has gained widespread attention and adoption in various industries. However, despite its potential benefits, there are still numerous challenges and issues that need to be addressed. This paper provides an overview of the legal, regulatory, and technical challenges related to the use of blockchain technology. It explores the challenges associated with privacy, data protection, and data security, and analyses the regulatory challenges and implications. Additionally, it identifies future challenges and issues that may arise in the field of blockchain technology, including the integration with emerging technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence (AI), and big data. The paper concludes by discussing the need for collaboration among stakeholders and the development of comprehensive legal and regulatory frameworks to address the challenges and ensure the successful implementation of blockchain technology in various sectors.
Ärzt:innen in Weiterbildung als Near-Peer Teachers: Umsetzung, Hürden und Erfolge
Authors: Rau Antje , Geier Anne-Kathrin , Hochsieder Steffi , Bleckwenn Markus
Published: January 2025

Studentische Lehre durch Ärzt:innen in Weiterbildung (ÄiW), sogenanntes Near-Peer Teaching, bietet Vorteile für Studierende und ÄiW gleichermaßen. Studierende profitieren durch bedürfnisorientierte Lehre und ein hierarchiearmes Lernumfeld, ÄiW durch eigenen Wissenszuwachs und Selbstreflektion. Zum Near-Peer Teaching in der Allgemeinmedizin liegen vor allem aus anglosächsischen Ländern Erkenntnisse vor, die überwiegend die Lehre im Praxissetting betreffen. Im Rahmen eines neu konzipierten Seminarprogramms für das Praktische Jahr (PJ) im Onlineformat wurden ÄiW hauptsächlich aus dem Kompetenzzentrum Weiterbildung Allgemeinmedizin Sachsen als Dozierende rekrutiert. Im Berichtszeitraum von März 2022 bis Dezember 2023 wurden insgesamt 22 Seminare zu 4 verschiedenen Praxisfällen ausgearbeitet und durchgeführt. Vorbereitungsaufgaben im Sinne der Flipped-classroom-Methode ergänzten die Termine und ermöglichten eine Verzahnung mit der praktischen Tätigkeit in den Lehrpraxen. Die Konzeption der Seminare erforderte eine kontinuierliche Unterstützung durch Mitarbeiterinnen des Instituts für Allgemeinmedizin mit Erfahrung in der Hochschullehre. Um die Vorteile des Near-Peer Teaching in diesem Format für alle Beteiligten nutzbar zu machen, führten wir ergänzende Seminarformate ein. Strukturierte didaktisch-methodische Schulungen für die Dozierenden sollen in Zukunft ergänzt werden. Eine aussagekräftige Evaluation steht derzeit noch aus.
Legal mobilization in a global context: the transnational practices and diffusion of rights-based climate litigation
Authors: Jodoin Sébastien , Wewerinke-Singh Margaretha
Published: January 2025

Our article offers an in-depth account of the role of the transnational practices of collaboration, storytelling, and learning in the diffusion of rights-based climate litigation (RBCL). Drawing on semi-structured interviews, participant observation, and quantitative data, we trace how the performance of these practices by lawyers, litigants, communities, scholars, and NGOs have fostered and sustained the transnational generation, exchange, and flow of resources, relationships, narratives, and knowledge underlying the field of RBCL. We argue that all three practices have fostered the diffusion of RBCL by influencing the local determinants of legal mobilization through enabling, discursive, and relational pathways. Finally, we show that these practices have had structural effects that have shaped the ideas and identities of the practitioners in the field of RBCL. Over time, the discursive and relational dimensions of practices have given rise to and have been strengthened by the formation of multiple communities of practice. The emergence of distinct communities provides the possibility for deeper forms of socialization and acculturation among their members, but they also make conflict and competition between different communities more likely. Overall, our article emphasizes the importance of understanding legal mobilization for climate justice as a set of practices that are shaped by the transnational social-legal context in which they are performed.
Radiocarbon measurements of dissolved inorganic carbon (DIC) in sediment porewater and seawater at AWI MICADAS
Authors: Grotheer Hendrik , Hammes Jens S , Gentz Torben , Castrillejo Maxi , Wacker Lukas , Hansman Roberta L , Mollenhauer Gesine
Published: January 2025

Radiocarbon (14C) measurements on dissolved inorganic carbon (DIC) are a powerful tool to trace water masses and carbon cycling in the ocean. Existing methodologies to determine the 14C content of seawater DIC requires large volumes of sample (usually >100 mL) and specialized graphitization techniques to achieve the accuracy and precision needed for meaningful data interpretation. The advancement of the CO2 gas ionization accelerator mass spectrometry (AMS) technique today allows routine 14C measurements on small samples (<100 µgC) and may thus permit reducing the sample volumes needed to determine 14C content of seawater DIC to ∼2 mL. The proposed method utilizes the carbonate handling system (CHS), gas interface system (GIS) and MICADAS AMS, and provides good accuracy but reduced precision compared to established methods. Good accuracy is shown by comparing results for a marine in-house DIC standard and a DIC seawater profile from Antarctica between the proposed CHS-GIS-MICADAS approach and reference measurements conducted on the same material at established laboratories (ETH and NOSAMS). Further, two sedimentary porewater profiles from a fjord system in Svalbard are presented. Despite good agreement, the precision of the CHS-GIS-MICADAS approach is reduced, potentially limiting possible interpretations on seawater DIC. Nonetheless, the reduction of sample volumes proves particularly helpful to analyze porewater DIC from sediment cores, where sample material is notoriously limited, reduces the required amounts of toxic HgCl2 and simplifies expedition logistics.
Optimal design of a generalized single-loop parallel manipulator with RCM characteristic considering motion/force transmissibility
Authors: Li Luquan , Tian Chunxu , Xia Zhihao , Zhang Dan
Published: January 2025

In certain scenarios, the large footprint of a robot is not conducive to multi-robot cooperative operations. This paper presents a generalized single-loop parallel manipulator with remote center of motion (GSLPM-RCM), which addresses this issue by incorporating a reconfigurable base. The footprint of this RCM manipulator can be adjusted by varying the parameters of the reconfigurable base. First, utilizing configuration evolution, a reconfigurable base is constructed based on the principle of forming RCM motion. Then, according to the modular analysis method, the inverse kinematics of this parallel RCM manipulator is analyzed, and the workspace is also analyzed. Subsequently, the motion/force transmissibility of this RCM manipulator is analyzed by considering its single-loop and multi-degree of freedom characteristics. Leveraging the workspace index and transmissibility indices, dimension optimization of the manipulator is implemented. Finally, the influence of the reconfigurable base on the workspace and the transmissibility performance of the optimized manipulator is studied.
Prostate-specific antigen screening at low thresholds of men with pathogenic BRCA1/2 variants
Authors: Stroomberg Hein V. , Brasso Klaus , Blak Anna A. , Byrjalsen Anna , Hansen Thomas van Overeem , Røder Andreas
Published: January 2025

Background

Men with pathogenic BRCA1/2 variants are at higher risk of prostate cancer We included men with likely pathogenic/pathogenic (LP/P) variants in BRCA1/2 in a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) screening program after cascade germline testing since 2014. PSA was tested yearly and an age-specific low PSA threshold for biopsy was used, to determine if a low PSA threshold for biopsy is justified for men with pathogenic BRCA1/2 variants.

Methods

From 2014 to 2023 a total of 340 men were included in the program. We report demographics, clinical characteristics, and treatment outcomes at 7 years.

Results

The cumulative incidence of a primary biopsy was 37% (95CI: 31‒43) after 7 years. Incidence of prostate cancer diagnosis was 11% (95CI: 7.1‒15). Men referred were 7.8 (95CI: 5.3‒11, p < 0.001) times more likely to be diagnosed with prostate cancer than the general Danish male population. The cumulative incidence of biochemical failure (PSA > = 0.2 ng/ml) 4 years after RP was 22% (95CI: 2.3‒41). The main limitation is that not all men underwent a pre-biopsy MRI.

Conclusion

We found a high incidence of prostate cancer in men with LP/P BRCA1/2 variants, but this may be explained by the low PSA threshold for scheduling biopsies. More studies are needed to compare this patient population to men with other germline features. The high risk of recurrence after curative therapy is worrisome and requires further evaluation as to whether this is a biological phenomenon.
Anomalous entropy-driven kinetics of dislocation nucleation
Authors: Bagchi Soumendu , Perez Danny
Published: January 2025

The kinetics of dislocation reactions, such as dislocation multiplication, controls the plastic deformation in crystals beyond their elastic limit, therefore critical mechanisms in a number of applications in materials science. We present a series of large-scale molecular dynamics simulations that shows that one such type of reactions, the nucleation of dislocation at free surfaces, exhibit unconventional kinetics, including unexpectedly large nucleation rates under compression, very strong entropic stabilization under tension, as well as strong non-Arrhenius behavior. These unusual kinetics are quantitatively rationalized using a variational transition state theory approach coupled with an efficient numerical scheme for the estimation of vibrational entropy changes. These results highlight the need for a variational treatment of the kinetics to quantitatively capture dislocation reaction kinetics, especially at low-to-moderate strains where large deformations are required to activate reactions. These observations suggest possible explanations to previously observed unconventional deformation kinetics in both molecular dynamics simulations and experiments.
Internal electric field steering S-scheme charge transfer in ZnIn2S4/COF boosts H2O2 photosynthesis from water and air for sustainable disinfection
Authors: Zhuo Linlin , Dong Shaofeng , Sham Yik Tung , Zhang Jinpeng , Xu Xiaoying , Ho Kenrick Chun Kiu , Pan Min , Chen Qiaoshan , Huang Guocheng , Bi Jinhong
Published: January 2025

The global need for clean water and sanitation drives the development of eco-friendly and efficient water treatment technologies to combat biological pollution from pathogens. In this study, a novel heterojunction photocatalyst was synthesized by incorporating ZnIn2S4 into covalent organic frameworks (COFs) to enable environmentally friendly hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) photosynthesis and explore its potential for in situ disinfection. The ZnIn2S4/COF photocatalyst achieved remarkable H2O2 yields of 1325 µmol∙g−¹∙h−¹, surpassing pristine COF and ZnIn2S4 by factors of 3.12 and 16.2, respectively. The produced H2O2 was efficiently activated into hydroxyl radicals (·OH) through reaction with Fe(II), enabling rapid sterilization via a photocatalysis-self-Fenton system. Mechanistic insights, supported by physicochemical characterizations and theoretical calculations, highlighted the role of the internal electric field (IEF) in enhancing carrier separation and transfer, thereby boosting photosynthesis efficiency. This work presents a sustainable approach to H2O2 photosynthesis and activation for disinfection, offering a promising solution to global water treatment challenges.
Upstreamness and downstreamness in input–output analysis from local and aggregate information
Authors: Bartolucci Silvia , Caccioli Fabio , Caravelli Francesco , Vivo Pierpaolo
Published: January 2025

Ranking sectors and countries within global value chains is of paramount importance to estimate risks and forecast growth in large economies. However, this task is often non-trivial due to the lack of complete and accurate information on the flows of money and goods between sectors and countries, which are encoded in input–output (I–O) tables. In this work, we show that an accurate estimation of the role played by sectors and countries in supply chain networks can be achieved without full knowledge of the I–O tables, but only relying on local and aggregate information, e.g., the total intermediate demand per sector. Our method, based on a rank-1 approximation to the I–O table, shows consistently good performance in reconstructing rankings (i.e., upstreamness and downstreamness measures for countries and sectors) when tested on empirical data from the world input–output database. Moreover, we connect the accuracy of our approximate framework with the spectral properties of the I–O tables, which ordinarily exhibit relatively large spectral gaps. Our approach provides a fast and analytically tractable framework to rank constituents of a complex economy without the need of matrix inversions and the knowledge of finer intersectorial details.
Development and validation of PCR marker array for molecular selection towards spring, vernalization-independent and winter, vernalization-responsive ecotypes of white lupin (Lupinus albus L.)
Authors: Surma Anna , Książkiewicz Michał , Bielski Wojciech , Kozak Bartosz , Galek Renata , Rychel-Bielska Sandra
Published: January 2025

White lupin (Lupinus albus L.) is an ancient grain legume that is still undergoing improvement of domestication traits, including vernalization-responsiveness, providing frost tolerance and preventing winter flowering in autumn-sowing agriculture, and vernalization-independence, conferring drought escape by rapid flowering in spring-sowing. A recent genome-wide association study highlighted several loci significantly associated with the most contrasting phenotypes, including deletions in the promoter of the FLOWERING LOCUS T homolog, LalbFTc1, and some DArT-seq/silicoDArT loci. The present study aimed to develop and validate a versatile PCR marker array enabling molecular selection of spring- and winter-type white lupin ecotypes. Candidate DArT-seq and silicoDArT loci were transformed into cleaved amplified polymorphic sequence (CAPS) or derived CAPS markers. Developed markers, together with those previously published for LalbFTc1 INDELs and quantitative trait loci from linkage maps, were implemented for screening of white lupin germplasm panel subjected to 2-year phenotyping of phenology traits. Three DArT-seq, two silicoDArT and seven LalbFTc1 INDEL markers were positively validated, constituting a convenient PCR-based marker assay for rapid and accurate reselection of white lupin germplasm towards early flowering and thermoneutrality or late flowering and vernalization-responsiveness, as well as for tracking high genetic and phenotypic diversity within white lupin landraces, revealed in the present study.
Investigation of the validity, reliability and psychometric properties of the Turkish version of the Ottawa sitting scale in patients with Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Yetiş Aysu , Canli Mehmet , Yildiz Nazım Tolgahan , Kocaman Hikmet , Yildirim Hasan , Kuzu Şafak , Valamur İrem , Duran Selcen
Published: January 2025

The Ottawa Sitting Scale is a tool for the multidimensional assessment of sitting balance. This study aimed to investigate the validity, reliability, and psychometric properties of the Turkish version of the Ottawa Sitting Scale (OSS-TR) in Turkish-speaking patients with Parkinson’s disease (PD). The study included 56 patients diagnosed with PD based on the UK Brain Bank Criteria. Construct validity of the OSS-TR was established through the evaluation of structural and convergent validity. Explanatory factor analysis and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) were carried out to determine the structural validity. Convergent validity was analysed by examining the relationships between OSS-TR with the Berg Balance Scale (BBS) and Trunk Impairment Scale (TIS). The test-retest reliability of the scale was assessed by intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) and internal consistency was assessed by Cronbach’s alpha coefficient. The good fit determined according to the model fit criteria based on the CFA results confirmed the structural validity. Furthermore, the high associations between OSS-TR with the BBS (r = 0.766) and TIS (r = 0.720) supported convergent validity (p < 0.05). Test-retest reliability of the OSS-TR was excellent (ICC = 0.867). Moreover, internal consistency was high (Cronbach’s alpha = 0.948). The OSS-TR is a valid and reliable instrument for assessing sitting balance in Turkish-speaking PD patients. Regarding the results of the study, OSS-TR can be considered useful in the evaluation of sitting balance among PD patients in clinical and research settings.
Preclinical assessment of splicing modulation therapy for ABCA4 variant c.768G>T in Stargardt disease
Authors: Karjosukarso Dyah W. , Bukkems Femke , Duijkers Lonneke , Tomkiewicz Tomasz Z. , Kiefmann Julia , Sarlea Andrei , Bervoets Sander , Vázquez-Domínguez Irene , Molday Laurie L. , Molday Robert S. , Netea Mihai G. , Hoyng Carel B. , Garanto Alejandro , Collin Rob W. J.
Published: January 2025

Background

Stargardt disease type 1 (STGD1) is a progressive retinal disorder caused by bi-allelic variants in the ABCA4 gene. A recurrent variant at the exon-intron junction of exon 6, c.768G>T, causes a 35-nt elongation of exon 6 that leads to premature termination of protein synthesis.

Methods

To correct this aberrant splicing, twenty-five 2′-O-methoxyethyl antisense oligonucleotides (AONs) were designed, spanning the entire exon elongation.

Results

Testing of these AONs in patient-derived photoreceptor precursor cells and retinal organoids allow the selection of a lead candidate AON (A7 21-mer) that rescues on average 52% and 50% expression of wild-type ABCA4 transcript and protein, respectively. In situ hybridization and probe-based ELISA demonstrate its distribution and stability in vitro and in vivo. No major safety concerns regarding off-targets, immunostimulation and toxicity are observed in transcriptomics analysis, cytokine stimulation assays in human primary immune cells, and cytotoxicity assays.

Conclusions

Additional optimization and in vivo studies will be performed to further investigate the lead candidate. Considering the high prevalence of this variant, a substantial number of patients are likely to benefit from a successful further development and implementation of this therapy.
Gemcitabine and ATR inhibitors synergize to kill PDAC cells by blocking DNA damage response
Authors: Höfer Stefanie , Frasch Larissa , Brajkovic Sarah , Putzker Kerstin , Lewis Joe , Schürmann Hendrik , Leone Valentina , Sakhteman Amirhossein , The Matthew , Bayer Florian P , Müller Julian , Hamood Firas , Siveke Jens T , Reichert Maximilian , Kuster Bernhard
Published: January 2025

The DNA-damaging agent Gemcitabine (GEM) is a first-line treatment for pancreatic cancer, but chemoresistance is frequently observed. Several clinical trials investigate the efficacy of GEM in combination with targeted drugs, including kinase inhibitors, but the experimental evidence for such rationale is often unclear. Here, we phenotypically screened 13 human pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PDAC) cell lines against GEM in combination with 146 clinical inhibitors and observed strong synergy for the ATR kinase inhibitor Elimusertib in most cell lines. Dose-dependent phosphoproteome profiling of four ATR inhibitors following DNA damage induction by GEM revealed a strong block of the DNA damage response pathway, including phosphorylated pS468 of CHEK1, as the underlying mechanism of drug synergy. The current work provides a strong rationale for why the combination of GEM and ATR inhibition may be useful for the treatment of PDAC patients and constitutes a rich phenotypic and molecular resource for further investigating effective drug combinations.
Two decades of imaging photoelectron circular dichroism: from first principles to future perspectives
Authors: Sparling Chris , Townsend Dave
Published: January 2025

There has been a recent surge in the number of studies using PECD to study gas-phase chiral molecules. This tutorial will give a synopsis of the field, discuss novel applications of the technique, and highlight some future challenges.
Rashba effect originates from the reduction of point-group symmetries
Authors: Okamura Koshi
Published: January 2025

A nondegenerate state originates from the lack of the inversion, two-fold rotation, and reflection symmetries transforming the wavevector k to −k according to the time-reversal symmetry.
Illustrating the surface chemistry of nitrogen oxides (NOx) adsorbed on rutile TiO2 (110) with the aid of STM and AIMD simulation
Authors: Muthukrishnan S. , Vidya R. , Sjåstad Anja Olafsen
Published: January 2025

The family of nitrogen oxides such as NO, NO2, and N2O is considered as major anthropogenic environmental pollutants.
Synthesis of IrCu/Co3O4 hybrid nanostructures and their enhanced catalytic properties toward oxygen evolution reaction under both acidic and alkaline conditions
Authors: Xu Xiaomei , Yu Taekyung
Published: January 2025

IrCu/Co3O4 hybrid nanostructures were prepared under mild conditions using NaBH4 through an anti-solvent crystallization method.
A highly elastic and Li-ion conductive binder enables stable operation of silicon microparticle anodes in high-capacity and high-energy-density pouch cells
Authors: Li Zeheng , Wan Zhengwei , Lin Zheng , Zheng Mengting , Zheng Jianhui , Qian Shangshu , Wang Yao , Song Tinglu , Lin Zhan , Lu Jun
Published: January 2025

The pulverization and disintegration of silicon microparticles (SiMPs) cause additional adherend failure, rendering the highly efficient binders for Si nanoparticle anodes ineffective for SiMP anodes. Herein, we report a grafted...
A Schiff-base-modified Cu nanocluster with redox dual-catalytic sites and fluorescence sensing for the degradation and detection of atrazine
Authors: Wang Li , Chen Yang
Published: January 2025

Simultaneous detection and degradation of Atrazine, a widely used and heavily contaminating pesticide, using Cu nanocluster-based catalyst.
A highly hydroxylated 6-tin oxide cluster serves as an efficient e-beam and EUV-photoresist to achieve high-resolution patterns
Authors: Li Cheng-Dun , Chou Chun-Fu , Tseng Yu-Fang , Lin Burn-Jeng , Gau Tsai-Sheng , Chen Po-Hsiung , Chiu Po-Wen , Chen Sun-Zen , Tsai Shin-Lin , Jian Wen-Bin , Liu Jui-Hsiung
Published: January 2025

A carboxylated-free cluster, formulated as (BuSn)6O4(OH)10 (2), was synthesized from the reaction of (BuSn)6O4Cl2(MeCO2)8 (1) with LiOH (aq.) in cold tetrahydrofuran (THF).
Structural and thermal properties of 3-substituted quinazolinone Schiff base conjugates
Authors: Korica Milenko , Komar Mario , Molnar Maja , Nemec Vinko , Cinčić Dominik , Balić Tomislav
Published: January 2025

The structural and thermal properties of quinazolinone Schiff base conjugates with different substituents on benzene moieties were investigated and the influence of different intermolecular interactions correlated with melting points.
Study on the extraction behavior of Nd(iii) in nitric acid medium by novel asymmetric alkyl diglycolamide extractants with different structures
Authors: Yin Jingjing , Peng Xiujing , Zhang Miaomiao , Liu Yifan , Wang Haoran , Zheng Jixi , Sun Guoxin , Cui Yu
Published: January 2025

Cyclohexyl substituents enhance the extraction ability of DGAs. The extraction ability decreases with the increase of alkyl substituents. The extraction mechanism was systematically analyzed by some characterization methods.
Spatially-resolved characterization of the metabolic and N-glycan alterations in colorectal cancer using matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry imaging
Authors: Zhang Yaqi , Chen Qiangjun , Wang Lei , Geng Haoyuan , Zhu Zihan , Lv Cancan , Zhao Yisheng , Wang Xiao , Sun Chenglong , Chen Panpan , Zhang Chao
Published: January 2025

The multi-omics approach combining MSI-based metabolomics and N-glycomics visualized spatial distributions of metabolites and N-glycans in heterogeneous colorectal cancer tissues.
High-throughput computation and machine learning screening of van der Waals heterostructures for Z-scheme photocatalysis
Authors: Liu Xiaoqing , Li Yifan , Zhang Xiuying , Zhao Yi-Ming , Wang Xian , Zhou Jun , Shen Jiadong , Zhou Miao , Shen Lei
Published: January 2025

We identify 62 Z-scheme heterostructures with excellent photocatalytic performance from 11 935 hetero-bilayer structures using high-throughput calculations and machine learning.
A flexible and self-healable moisture-driven energy harvester based on 2D vanadium pentoxide nanosheets
Authors: Saha Kundan , Sonkusale Sameer
Published: January 2025

Harvesting energy from the surrounding environment holds significant potential for the self-powering of sensors and diagnostic platforms.
Carrier lifetime killer in 4H-SiC: carrier capture path via carbon vacancies
Authors: Jiang Xuanyu , Huang Yuanchao , Wang Rong , Pi Xiaodong , Yang Deren , Deng Tianqi
Published: January 2025

The carrier capture path via carbon vacancies in 4H-SiC is comprehensively investigated, and a metastable spin-triplet state is found to be a key transition state for carrier recombination.
Enhancing ion doping and charge transport in polymer electrochemical transistors through poly(3-hexylthiophene) nanowire integration
Authors: Deng Yadan , Jiang Jingzan , Chen Xinmu , Sun Jun , Lou Zhidong , Hou Yanbing , Teng Feng , Hu Yufeng
Published: January 2025

Highly ordered nanowires enhance the ion doping efficiency in P3HT PECT devices, improving performance. Ions preferentially dope the J-aggregation region, namely the P3HT nanowires, in the resulting films.
Construction of lacunary α-K8SiW11O39 polyoxometalate/MIL-101(Cr) MOF/CoFe2O4 magnetic nanocomposites for adsorptive removal of toxic azo dyes and antibiotics from wastewater
Authors: Nourolahi Hamidreza , Farhadi Saeed , Malakooti Reihaneh , Maleki Mansoureh , Mahmoudi Farzaneh
Published: January 2025

A ternary magnetic nanocomposite based on the MIL-101(Cr) metal–organic framework, α-K8SiW11O39 (LPOM) and CoFe2O4 (CFO) nanoparticles was synthesized and used as an efficient adsorbent for removing dyes and antibiotic drugs from water.
Late Talkers' Language, Metaphor, Theory of Mind, and Reading Skills at 9 Years of Age
Authors: Crawshaw Camilla E. , Lüke Carina , Ritterfeld Ute
Published: January 2025

Purpose:

Prior work has found that “late talkers” (LTs) as a group continue to demonstrate lower language and reading outcomes compared to their typically developing (TD) peers even into young adulthood. Others identified that children diagnosed with developmental language disorder (DLD) show difficulties later with theory of mind (ToM) tasks and metaphor comprehension, but there is a shortage of research specifically investigating these advanced skills in LTs. The current study therefore compared language-related skills of former LTs with their TD peers at school age.

Method:

A longitudinal sample (
N
= 35) of monolingual German-speaking children was observed from age 1 until 9, comprising TD children (
n
= 27) and children identified as LTs at age 2 (
n
= 8), of which two met criteria for DLD between ages 3 and 6. Children's language (productive vocabulary, productive and receptive grammar), reading, metaphor comprehension, and ToM skills (ToM scale and Strange Stories) were investigated, and group comparisons were conducted.

Results:

Former LTs performed worse than the TD children on measures of productive vocabulary, receptive grammar, metaphor comprehension, and the ToM Strange Stories task at the age of 9, but not on measures of productive grammar, reading, or the ToM scale.

Conclusions:

The findings indicate that LTs can catch up with their TD peers in some areas of language and ToM but that subtle differences remain across other complex areas. Further research is needed to pinpoint possible explanations for why certain skills are more strongly impacted and the potential developmental interactions between these competencies.
The impact of entrapped air bubbles on cell integration in porous metallic biomaterials
Authors: Migita Satoshi , Tsushima Reno , Kishita Tomotaka , Suyalatu
Published: January 2025

Additive manufacturing has enabled the creation of 3D porous metallic medical materials, crucial for enhancing cell ingrowth and tissue integration. However, despite extensive research on optimising pore size, inconsistencies persist in achieving optimal cells and tissues adhesion. In this study, the authors show that cell attachment and proliferation are hindered by the formation of bubbles within the pores, which may act as physical barriers. The authors fabricated porous titanium (Ti) and tantalum (Ta) scaffolds by selective laser melting and investigated the effects of bubble entrapment on cell adhesion and proliferation. The authors’ results demonstrate that bubble removal significantly enhanced cell integration. These results indicate the importance of both geometrical design and microenvironmental conditions to prevent bubble formation, ensuring cell adhesion and tissue integration in the development of next‐generation porous metallic scaffolds.
CO2-rich protoplanetary discs as a probe of dust radial drift and trapping
Authors: Sellek Andrew D. , Vlasblom Marissa , van Dishoeck Ewine F.
Published: January 2025

Context. Mid-infrared spectra indicate considerable chemical diversity in the inner regions of protoplanetary discs, with some being H2O-dominated and others CO2-dominated. Sublimating ices from radially drifting dust grains are often invoked to explain some of this diversity, particularly with regards to H2O-rich discs.

Aims. We model the contribution made by radially drifting dust grains to the chemical diversity of the inner regions of protoplanetary discs. These grains transport ices – including those of H2O and CO2 – inwards to snow lines, thus redistributing the molecular content of the disc. As radial drift can be impeded by dust trapping in pressure maxima, we also explore the difference between smooth discs and those with dust traps due to gas gaps, quantifying the effects of gap location and formation time.

Methods. We used a 1D protoplanetary disc evolution code to model the chemical evolution of the inner disc resulting from gas viscous evolution and dust radial drift. We post-processed these models to produce synthetic spectra, which we analyse with 0D LTE slab models to understand how this evolution may be expressed observationally.

Results. Discs evolve through an initial H2O-rich phase as a result of sublimating ices, followed by a CO2 -rich phase as H2O vapour is advected onto the star and CO2 is advected into the inner disc from its snow line. The introduction of traps hastens the transition between the phases, temporarily raising the CO2/H2O ratio. However, whether or not this evolution can be traced in observations depends on the contribution of dust grains to the optical depth. If the dust grains become coupled to the gas after crossing the H2O snow line – for example if bare grains fragment more easily than icy grains – then the dust that delivers the H2O adds to the continuum optical depth and obscures the H2O, preventing any evolution in its visible column density. However, the CO2/H2O visible column density ratio is only weakly sensitive to assumptions about the dust continuum obscuration, making it a more suitable tracer of the impact of transport on chemistry than either individual column density. This can be investigated with spectra that show weak features that probe deep enough into the disc. The least effective gaps are those that open close to the star on timescales competitive with dust growth and drift as they block too much CO2; gaps opened later or further out lead to higher CO2/H2O. This leads to a potential correlation between CO2/H2O and gap location that occurs on million-year timescales for fiducial parameters.

Conclusions. Radial drift, especially when combined with dust trapping, produces CO2 -rich discs on timescales longer than the viscous timescale at the H2O snow line (while creating H2O-rich discs at earlier times). Population analyses of the relationship between observed inner disc spectra and large-scale disc structure are needed to test the predicted role of traps.
The Tourism Industry as a Tool for Local Economic Development of the Territorial Communities of the Carpathian Region of Ukraine
Authors: Pavliuk Svitlana , Mirzayev Natig , Ungalov Sanjar
Published: January 2025

Tourism, as an important part of social progress, not only contributes to economic growth but also has the potential to catalyze changes in socio-cultural and ecological dimensions. The relevance of the topic of tourism as a tool for the local economic development of territorial communities of the Carpathian region of Ukraine is due to the following: tourism is a factor in economic growth, which contributes to the creation of new jobs, attracting investments and increasing the level of well-being of the population. Tourism affects the preservation and dissemination of cultural heritage, stimulates interest in preserving natural resources and ecosystems, and promotes understanding, tolerance, and environmental awareness. In challenging conditions such as martial law or other difficult situations, tourism can be a source of profit and a tool for the reconstruction and development of regions in need of support. The purpose of the article is to identify the trend of tourism development in the Carpathian region, its role and significance for local economic development, and on this basis to justify the advantages of their synergistic relationship. The research uses a set of scientific research methods of a general nature (analysis and synthesis, induction and deduction, abstraction, formalization) and a special one (content analysis, comparison, graphic), which made it possible to reveal meaningful interpretations of regularities regarding the understanding of the concepts of «local economic development» and «creative tourism» as well as characterize the synergistic relationship between them. It was established that the Carpathian region has significant tourism potential, and the dynamics of tax revenues from the tourism industry in the Lviv, Ivano- Frankivsk, Zakarpattia, and Chernivtsi regions show a positive result. The Ukrainian and world scientists` works were analyzed regarding the impact of tourism on the local economic development of territorial communities, as a result of which attention was focused on several advantages in the economy, socio-cultural sphere, and ecology.