bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Long-Term Outcomes of Patients with Poor Prognostic Factors Following Transanal Endoscopic Microsurgery (TEMS) for Early Rectal Cancer
Authors: Haq Muneeb Ul , Noureldin Khaled , Pritchard David Mark , Myint Arthur Sun , Duckworth Carrie A. , Than Ngu Wah , Hughes David M. , Ahmed Shakil , Javed Muhammad Ahsan
Published: February 2025

Background: Transanal endoscopic microsurgery (TEMS) is an organ-preserving approach for treatment of early rectal cancer (ERC). However, adverse histopathological features identified post-TEMS often necessitate adjuvant therapy. This study aims to compare the long-term oncological outcomes of patients who underwent TEMS and were offered adjuvant treatments with total mesorectal excision (TME), chemoradiotherapy (CRT), radiotherapy (RT), active surveillance, or dose escalation with contact X-ray brachytherapy (CXB). Methods: This study included patients treated with TEMS for ERC between September 2012 and December 2022, with follow-up until December 2023. Patients with adverse histopathological features (extra-mural venous invasion, lympho-vascular invasion, R1 margins, tumour budding) were assigned to adjuvant treatments. Inverse probability of treatment weighting (IPTW) was applied to mitigate selection bias. Results: Of the 117 patients, 24 underwent TME, 17 received CRT, 25 received RT, 14 underwent active surveillance, and 37 patients received CXB boost along with CRT. The median follow-up was 60 months (IQR 52–73). During this time, 29 patients developed recurrence, and 15 died. The 5-year overall survival (OS) was 78.6%, and disease-free survival (DFS) was 70.9%. Compared to CXB, the mortality risk for CRT (HR = 0.81; 95% CI: 0.20–3.28; p = 0.77) and TME (HR = 3.68; 95% CI: 0.46–29.79; p = 0.22) was not significantly different. However, TME was associated with a significantly higher recurrence risk compared to CXB (HR = 7.57; 95% CI: 1.23–46.84; p = 0.029). Conclusions: An organ-preserving strategy with CRT or CRT combined with a CXB boost may offer comparable long-term outcomes and reduced recurrence risks for patients undergoing TEMS for ERC with poor prognostic features. Further research with larger cohorts is needed to validate these results.
Microbiota and Radiotherapy: Unlocking the Potential for Improved Gastrointestinal Cancer Treatment
Authors: Vučinić Damir , Redžović Arnela , Hauser Goran , Mikolašević Ivana
Published: February 2025

Radiotherapy (RT) is one of the major cornerstones in managing gastrointestinal (GI) cancers. However, several side effects, such as intestinal inflammation, mucosal injury, and dysbiosis, often compromise this. The gut microbiota increasingly attracts much interest as an essential modulator of RT effects influencing immune responses and tissue repair. Through short-chain fatty acids such as butyrate, representatives of certain bacterial species play a crucial role under normal conditions, keeping the mucosal integrity intact and reducing oxidative stress-mediated damage. Dysbiosis, a state where diminished microbial diversity and increased pathogenic species in the microbiota are seen, amplifies RT-induced toxicity in patients. Clinical investigations highlight that microbiota-targeted interventions, including probiotics, prebiotics, and fecal microbiota transplantation, hold the means to augment RT efficacy and lessen toxicity. Increased microflora diversity and specific microbial profiles have yielded serious patient improvements. Advanced RT methods use stereotactic body radiotherapy combined with microbiota modulation as a promising technique to shield healthy tissue and maximize immune-mediated antitumor effects. Additionally, there is an implication in tumor behavior regulated by the intratumoral microbiota regarding the response to radiotherapy. Notably, the modulation of gut and tumor microbiota provides an avenue to optimize RT benefits in GI cancers, underscoring the importance of personalized therapy.
Expanding the Applicability of Electroactive Polymers for Tissue Engineering Through Surface Biofunctionalization
Authors: Leiva Beatriz , Irastorza Igor , Moneo Andrea , Ibarretxe Gaskon , Silvan Unai , Lanceros-Méndez Senentxu
Published: February 2025

Polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) is a synthetic semicrystalline fluoropolymer with great potential for tissue engineering applications. In addition to its excellent mechanical strength, thermal stability, biocompatibility and simple processability into different morphologies, the relevance of PVDF-based materials for tissue engineering applications comes for its electroactive properties, which include piezo-, pyro- and ferroelectricity. Nevertheless, its synthetic nature and inherent hydrophobicity strongly limit the applicability of this polymer for certain purposes, particularly those involving cell attachment. In addition, the variable adhesion of cells and proteins to PVDF surfaces with different net surface charge makes it difficult to accurately compare the biological response in each case. In this work, we describe a method for the surface functionalization of PVDF films with biological molecules. After an initial chemical modification, and, independently of its polarization state, the PVDF films covalently bind equivalent amounts of cell-binding proteins. In addition, the materials retain their properties, including piezoelectric activity, representing a very promising method for the functionalization of PVDF-based tissue engineering approaches.
Hydrogen Peroxide Fuel Cells and Self-Powered Electrochemical Sensors Based on the Principle of a Fuel Cell with Biomimetic and Nanozyme Catalysts
Authors: Zhang Yunong , Liu Yuxin , Offenhäusser Andreas , Mourzina Yulia
Published: February 2025

The operating principle of a fuel cell is attracting increasing attention in the development of self-powered electrochemical sensors (SPESs). In this type of sensor, the chemical energy of the analyzed substance is converted into electrical energy in a galvanic cell through spontaneous electrochemical reactions, directly generating an analytical signal. Unlike conventional (amperometric, voltammetric, and impedimetric) sensors, no external energy in the form of an applied potential is required for the redox detection reactions to occur. SPESs therefore have several important advantages over conventional electrochemical sensors. They do not require a power supply and modulation system, which saves energy and costs. The devices also offer greater simplicity and are therefore more compatible for applications in wearable sensor devices as well as in vivo and in situ use. Due to the dual redox properties of hydrogen peroxide, it is possible to develop membraneless fuel cells and fuel-cell-based hydrogen peroxide SPESs, in which hydrogen peroxide in the analyzed sample is used as the only source of energy, as both an oxidant and a reductant (fuel). This also suppresses the dependence of the devices on the availability of oxygen. Electrode catalyst materials for different hydrogen peroxide reaction pathways at the cathode and the anode in a one-compartment cell are a key technology for the implementation and characteristics of hydrogen peroxide SPESs. This article provides an overview of the operating principle and designs of H2O2–H2O2 fuel cells and H2O2 fuel-cell-based SPESs, focusing on biomimetic and nanozyme catalysts, and highlights recent innovations and prospects of hydrogen-peroxide-based SPESs for (bio)electrochemical analysis.
The Latest Advances in Microfluidic DLD Cell Sorting Technology: The Optimization of Channel Design
Authors: Fan Dan , Liu Yi , Liu Yaling
Published: February 2025

Cell sorting plays a crucial role in both medical and biological research. As a key passive sorting technique in the field of microfluidics, deterministic lateral displacement (DLD) has been widely applied to cell separation and sorting. This review aims to summarize the latest advances in the optimization of channel design for microfluidic DLD cell sorting. First, we provide an overview of the design elements of microfluidic DLD cell sorting channels, focusing on key factors that affect separation efficiency and accuracy, including channel geometry, fluid dynamics, and the interaction between cells and channel surfaces. Subsequently, we review recent innovations and progress in channel design for microfluidic DLD technology, exploring its applications in biomedical fields and its integration with machine learning. Additionally, we discuss the challenges currently faced in optimizing channel design for microfluidic DLD cell sorting. Finally, based on existing research, we make a summary and put forward prospective views on the further development of this field.
Cholinesterase Inhibitors from Plants and Their Potential in Alzheimer’s Treatment: Systematic Review
Authors: ALNasser Maryam N. , Alboraiy Ghadir M. , Alsowig Eman M. , Alqattan Fatimah M.
Published: February 2025

Introduction: Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by memory loss and cognitive decline, primarily due to dysfunction of acetylcholine caused by acetylcholinesterase and butyrylcholinesterase. While synthetic cholinesterase inhibitors like donepezil, rivastigmine, and galantamine are commonly used, they have notable side effects, prompting interest in natural alternatives. Medicinal plants, rich in bioactive compounds like flavonoids and alkaloids, have shown potential as cholinesterase inhibitors with additional antioxidants and anti-inflammatory benefits. This study aimed to evaluate the cholinesterase-inhibiting effects of various plant species and their compounds to identify new therapeutic candidates and reduce side effects. Method: A PRISMA-compliant review was conducted, screening studies from multiple databases, with a final inclusion of 64 in vivo studies. Results: These studies highlighted plant extracts such as Ferula ammoniacum, Elaeagnus umbellata, Bacopa monnieri, and Centella asiatica, which improved memory, reduced oxidative stress, and provided neuroprotection. Some extracts also reduced amyloid plaques, enhanced neuronal integrity, and restored cholinesterase activity, indicating their potential as therapeutic agents for AD and other neurodegenerative diseases. Conclusions: The findings underscore the promise of plant-based compounds in treating cognitive decline and cholinergic dysfunction in AD, advocating for further research into their therapeutic potential.
Dark Triad and Interpersonal Forgiveness: The Mediating Role of Interpersonal Relationship Satisfaction
Authors: Geng Yaoguo , Cheng Ziyang , Shi Liping , Zhan Tingting , Hu Zhixia , Jin Wenjing
Published: February 2025

The social-emotional functions associated with the Dark Triad have been widely examined. However, further research is needed to explore the nuanced relationship between the Dark Triad and interpersonal relationships, particularly in diverse cultural contexts. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between the Dark Triad and interpersonal relationship satisfaction and interpersonal forgiveness by testing 577 students with the Dirty Dozen (DD), Interpersonal Relationship Satisfaction Questionnaire (IRSQ), and the Transgression-Related Interpersonal Motivations Scale-12-Item Form (TRIM-12). Results showed that (a) overall, the Dark Triad correlated negatively with lower interpersonal relationship satisfaction and interpersonal forgiveness. (b) Narcissism differs in the pattern of correlations from Machiavellianism and psychopathy. Machiavellianism and psychopathy were positively correlated with revenge, avoidance, and interpersonal dissatisfaction and negatively correlated with interpersonal satisfaction. In contrast, narcissism was positively correlated with revenge, avoidance, interpersonal dissatisfaction, and interpersonal satisfaction. (c) The mediating models showed that individuals with higher Dark Triad scores exhibited lower interpersonal relationship satisfaction and higher levels of revenge. Individuals with higher Machiavellianism and psychopathy showed greater interpersonal relationship dissatisfaction and more pronounced avoidance. These findings highlight the nuanced role of the Dark Triad in shaping interpersonal outcomes and suggest that targeted interventions focusing on relationship satisfaction and interpersonal forgiveness could mitigate the negative social behaviors associated with these traits.
Impact of Scene Features of E-Commerce Live Streaming on Consumers’ Flow and Purchase Intentions of Sporting Goods
Authors: Li Zhengyu , Wang Yan , Cianfrone Beth Anne , Guo Zhen , Liu Bo , Zhang James , Shi Chenyu
Published: February 2025

Purpose—The purpose of this study is to examine the mechanism of scene features (i.e., visual appeal, presence, and scene–product matching) of e-commerce live streaming and how it impacts consumers’ flow and purchase intentions of sporting goods. Design/methodology/approach—To test the hypotheses in the conceptualized model that was developed based on the Stimulus–Organism–Response (S-O-R) model, sports consumers (N = 340) who watched e-commerce live streaming responded to an online survey administration. Structural equation modeling (SEM) was applied to examine the research model and test the hypotheses. Findings—The results reveal that scene features positively affect consumer flow experience, in which scene–product matching is the main contributing factor. Moreover, the flow experience plays a critical mediating role in influencing purchase intentions; meanwhile, the moderation role of sport identification was not found to be statistically significant. Originality/value—This study fills the void to explore how scene features of e-commerce live streaming influence consumer behavior associated with sporting goods merchandise through immersed flow experience. Confirming the applicability of the S-O-R model in the sports e-commerce live streaming setting, the findings of this study identify dimensions of scene features of e-commerce live streaming and highlight the significance of developing scene–product congruence features when designing, operating, and promoting live streaming programs while enhancing immersive involvement.
Theoretical Insight into the Mechanism and Descriptor for Hydrogen Spillover on the Pt/CeO2(111) Surface with Different Pt Coverages
Authors: Liang Congcong , Zhang De , Li Xin , Liu Yan , Chen Congbiao , Wang Qiang , Hou Bo , Ma Zhongyi , Wang Kangjun
Published: February 2025

Hydrogen spillover, as a common phenomenon, pervasively occurs in heterogeneous catalysis. Nevertheless, the understanding of the dynamic mechanism of hydrogen spillover in the typical Pt/CeO2 system remains limited. Herein, the pathways for hydrogen spillover on the surface of two Pt/CeO2(111) models have been systematically investigated using density functional theory (DFT) calculations. Hydrogen coverage and metal coverage are considered factors influencing hydrogen spillover in the Pt/CeO2 system. Descriptors for hydrogen migration at different metal coverages have been proposed to screen effective spillover metals within group Ⅷ: at lower metal coverages, the difference between [Eads(M−H)] and [Eads(O−H)] is considered as a descriptor, at higher metal coverages, the [Eads(M−H)] is used as a descriptor. Based on hydrogen spillover pathways, two dynamic mechanisms of hydrogen spillover, namely M–O–M and M–M, are introduced at different metal coverages. This study offers a deeper understanding of the hydrogen spillover phenomenon, proposes descriptors for hydrogen spillover and provides new insights into the design of heterogeneous catalysts.
The CD39/CD73/Adenosine and NAD/CD38/CD203a/CD73 Axis in Cutaneous T-Cell Lymphomas
Authors: Lin Liyun , Roccuzzo Gabriele , Yakymiv Yuliya , Marchisio Sara , Ortolan Erika , Funaro Ada , Senetta Rebecca , Pala Valentina , Bagot Martine , de Masson Adèle , Battistella Maxime , Guenova Emmanuella , Ribero Simone , Quaglino Pietro
Published: February 2025

Cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (CTCL), characterized by malignant T-cell proliferation primarily in the skin, includes subtypes such as mycosis fungoides (MF) and Sézary syndrome (SS). The tumor microenvironment (TME) is central to their pathogenesis, with flow cytometry and histology being the gold standards for detecting malignant T cells within the TME. Alongside emerging molecular markers, particularly clonality analysis, these tools are indispensable for accurate diagnosis and treatment planning. Of note, adenosine signaling within the TME has been shown to suppress immune responses, affecting various cell types. The expression of CD39, CD73, and CD38, enzymes involved in adenosine production, can be elevated in MF and SS, contributing to immune suppression. Conversely, the expression of CD26, part of the adenosine deaminase/CD26 complex, that degrades adenosine, is often lost by circulating tumoral cells. Flow cytometry has demonstrated increased levels of CD39 and CD73 on Sézary cells, correlating with disease progression and prognosis, while CD38 shows a variable expression, with its prognostic significance remaining under investigation. Understanding these markers’ roles in the complexity of TME-mediated immune evasion mechanisms might enhance diagnostic precision and offer new therapeutic targets in CTCL.
Comparison Between Signal Transduction Pathway Activity in Blood Cells of Sepsis Patients and Laboratory Models
Authors: Bouwman Wilbert , Raymakers Reinier , van der Poll Tom , van de Stolpe Anja
Published: February 2025

Sepsis represents a serious disease burden that lacks effective treatment. Drug development for sepsis requires laboratory models that adequately represent sepsis patients. Simultaneous Transcriptome-based Activity Profiling of Signal Transduction Pathway (STAP-STP) technology quantitatively infers STP activity from mRNA levels of target genes of the STP-associated transcription factor. Here, we used STAP-STP technology to compare STP activities between sepsis patients and lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-based models. Activity scores of Androgen Receptor (AR), TGFβ, NFκB, JAK-STAT1/2, and JAK-STAT3 STPs were calculated based on publicly available transcriptome data. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from patients with Gram-negative sepsis, nor PBMCs stimulated with LPS in vitro, showed altered STP activity. Increased NFκB, JAK-STAT1/2, and JAK-STAT3 STP activity was found in whole blood stimulated with LPS in vitro, and in whole blood obtained after intravenous injection of LPS in humans in vivo; AR and TGFβ STP activity only increased in the in vivo LPS model. These results resembled previously reported STP activity in whole blood of sepsis patients. We provide the first comparison of STP activity between patients with sepsis and laboratory model systems. Results are of use for the refinement of sepsis model systems for rational drug development.
Exploratory Review and In Silico Insights into circRNA and RNA-Binding Protein Roles in γ-Globin to β-Globin Switching
Authors: Habara Alawi
Published: February 2025

β-globin gene cluster regulation involves complex mechanisms to ensure proper expression and function in RBCs. During development, switching occurs as γ-globin is replaced by β-globin. Key regulators, like BCL11A and ZBTB7A, repress γ-globin expression to facilitate this transition with other factors, like KLF1, LSD1, and PGC-1α; these regulators ensure an orchestrated transition from γ- to β-globin during development. While these mechanisms have been extensively studied, circRNAs have recently emerged as key contributors to gene regulation, but their role in β-globin gene cluster regulation remains largely unexplored. Although discovered in the 1970s, circRNAs have only recently been recognized for their functional roles, particularly in interactions with RNA-binding proteins. Understanding how circRNAs contribute to switching from γ- to β-globin could lead to new therapeutic strategies for hemoglobinopathies, such as sickle cell disease and β-thalassemia. This review uses the circAtlas 3.0 database to explore circRNA expressions in genes related to switching from γ- to β-globin expression, focusing on blood, bone marrow, liver, and spleen. It emphasizes the exploration of the potential interactions between circRNAs and RNA-binding proteins involved in β-globin gene cluster regulatory mechanisms, further enhancing our understanding of β-globin gene cluster expression.
A Critical Role of Intracellular PD-L1 in Promoting Ovarian Cancer Progression
Authors: Huang Rui , Nakamura Brad , Senguttuvan Rosemary , Li Yi-Jia , Martincuks Antons , Bakkar Rania , Song Mihae , Ann David K. , Rodriguez-Rodriguez Lorna , Yu Hua
Published: February 2025

Disrupting the interaction between tumor-cell surface PD-L1 and T cell membrane PD-1 can elicit durable clinical responses. However, only about 10% of ovarian cancer patients respond to PD-1/PD-L1 blockade. Here, we show that PD-L1 expression in ovarian cancer-patient tumors is predominantly intracellular. Notably, PARP inhibitor treatment highly increased intracellular PD-L1 accumulation in both ovarian cancer-patient tumor samples and cell lines. We investigated whether intracellular PD-L1 might play a critical role in ovarian cancer progression. Mutating the PD-L1 acetylation site in PEO1 and ID8Brca1−/− ovarian cancer cells significantly decreased PD-L1 levels and impaired colony formation, which was accompanied by cell cycle G2/M arrest and apoptosis induction. PEO1 and ID8Brca1−/− tumors with PD-L1 acetylation site mutation also exhibited significantly reduced growth in mice. Furthermore, targeting intracellular PD-L1 with a cell-penetrating antibody effectively decreased ovarian tumor-cell intracellular PD-L1 level and induced tumor-cell growth arrest and apoptosis, as well as enhanced DNA damage and STING activation, both in vitro and in vivo. In conclusion, we have shown the critical role of intracellular PD-L1 in ovarian cancer progression.
Role of Hemocytes in the Aging of Drosophila Male Germline
Authors: Varga Virginia , Szinyákovics Janka , Bebes Anikó , Szikszai Fanni , Kovács Tibor
Published: February 2025

Stem cells are essential for the proper functioning of tissues, replacing damaged, senescent cells to ensure tissue regeneration. However, as age advances, the number of these stem cells can change, and their self-renewal abilities can become impaired, leading to disruption of homeostasis, loss of regenerative capacity, and, ultimately, deterioration of tissue function. In Drosophila testis, in addition to the germline and somatic cells involved in spermatogenesis, there are immune cells (hemocytes) with macrophage function. In our study, we aimed to investigate the role of hemocytes in maintaining germline stem cells throughout their lifespan. Our results show that in the absence of plasmatocytes and crystal immune cells, the number of germline stem cells (GSCs) and apoptotic germline cells also increases significantly during senescence, which may have detrimental effects on the differentiation processes of germline cells. The size of the hub increases in aged male testes. It is therefore conceivable that changes in the hub may induce dysfunction of differentiation processes. The fertility of aged immunodeficient animals is decreased. Furthermore, we show that the expression of the JAK/STAT signaling pathway, which is essential for the maintenance of the stem cell niche, is impaired in the lack of hemocytes. We found an increased expression of Socs36e, an inhibitor of JAK-STAT, which correlates with decreased JAK-STAT activity. Overexpression of Socs36e in the apical part of the germline led to a phenotype similar to the immunodeficient aged germline, where an increased GSC number and hub size were also observed. However, spermatogenesis was also disturbed in this case. Our study shows that hemocytes are required to regulate the number of GSCs. This regulation could be mediated through the JAK-STAT signaling pathway. These results may help to provide a more complex insight into the relationships between immune cells and stem cells.
Incidence and Characteristics of Pediatric Eosinophilic Esophagitis: A Midwestern State Analysis
Authors: Zamora-Sifuentes Jose L. , Rorie Andrew , Kunnath Sharad , Pauley Rosemary , Huang Pacheco Andrew , Hopp Russell
Published: February 2025

Background: Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is a chronic disease defined by esophageal dysfunction and >15 eosinophils per high-power-field on biopsy. Despite its increased incidence across the United States, studies evaluating its incidence at any state level are lacking. Methods: Record review of pediatric patients (<18 years) newly diagnosed with EoE based on ICD coding seen at the main two pediatric gastroenterology centers in the state: Children’s Nebraska (1 January 2016–31 December 2022) and Boys Town National Research Hospital (1 January 2022–31 December 2022). Data included demographics, age, and zip codes. Descriptive analysis focused on Nebraska residents. Results: The average point incidence of EoE between 2016 and 2022 was 10.84/100,000 inhabitants based on data from Children’s Nebraska. Considering both centers, the point incidence in Nebraska for 2022 was 32.45/100,000 inhabitants. Caucasians were 3.7 times more likely to be affected and older at time of diagnosis (average 9.7 years) compared to African Americans (7.0), Hispanics (7.4), and Asians (4.4). Conclusions: This is the first study evaluating the incidence of EoE in a specific U.S.A state. Studies at the state level are important to direct policy and interventions aiming limit its burden in communities.
The Interpersonal Antecedents of Attachment Security in Early Adulthood
Authors: Blake Julie A. , Scott James G. , Najman Jake M. , Thomas Hannah J.
Published: February 2025

Background/Objectives: The relevance of adult attachment security for physical and emotional wellbeing is increasingly evident. Developing a better understanding of the interpersonal antecedents of secure attachment in childhood and adolescence could enable opportunities for its promotion when attachment styles are more easily modifiable. Methods: Data from 3648 participants in a longitudinal birth cohort study were examined. At 21 years, participants completed the confidence (in self and others) subscale of the Attachment Style Questionnaire, a measure of attachment security. Path analysis was used to longitudinally examine the influence of maternal and child-reported interpersonal variables at birth, 5, and 14 years on attachment security in early adulthood. Results: Two pathways were identified. Firstly, child and family social relations at birth and 5 years predicted attachment security via the number of the child’s close friends at 14 years (β = 0.11, p < 0.001). Secondly, attuned caregiving at 14 years predicted attachment security via the recalled experiences of parental care up to 16 years, measured at 21 years (β = 0.28, p < 0.001). Greater adolescent family satisfaction directly predicted increased attachment security in early adulthood (β = 0.10, p < 0.001). Conclusions: Child and family social relationships from birth and throughout childhood and adolescence, along with attuned caregiving, led to increased attachment security in early adulthood. Public health and policy initiatives aimed at strengthening social support systems for caregivers and their children throughout childhood, and increasing the uptake of parenting programmes aimed at strengthening attuned caregiving, may lead to long-term improvements in the attachment security of offspring.
Circulating Nucleosomes and Histones in the Development of Lung Injury and Sepsis
Authors: Dutta Saugata , Dutta Sauradeep , Somanath Payaningal R. , Narayanan S. Priya , Wang Xiaoyun , Zhang Duo
Published: February 2025

Cellular nucleosomes—the structural and functional units of chromatin—are inherently present in cells. During cellular damage or cell death, nucleosomes are released into circulation, either actively or passively. Once released, nucleosomes can become immunogenic entities through various mechanisms. The nucleosomal proteins in nucleosomes, called histones, play a pivotal role in inducing immunogenicity. However, intact nucleosomes are more immunogenic than the histones alone, as nucleosomal double-stranded deoxyribonucleic acid (dsDNA) enhances its immunogenic potential. Our recent study has shown that circulating histones are predominantly nucleosomal histones rather than free histones. Consequently, circulating histones primarily function as integral parts of circulating nucleosomes rather than acting independently. Circulating nucleosomes and their associated histones are implicated in the pathogenesis of a wide array of diseases. Notably, they are critical in the pathogenesis of lung injury and sepsis. These diseases have high morbidity and mortality rates and lack early diagnostic biomarkers. Further investigation is required to fully elucidate the role of circulating nucleosomes and their associated histones in disease processes. This review aims to discuss the current understanding of circulating nucleosomes and histones in the pathogenesis of lung injury and sepsis, with a focus on the underlying mechanisms.
Healthcare Burden and Productivity Loss Due to Narcolepsy in Sweden
Authors: Giertz Anna , Mesterton Johan , Jakobsson Tanja , Crawford Stephen , Ghosh Somraj , Landtblom Anne-Marie
Published: February 2025

Background: Narcolepsy impacts both patients and society, yet there is limited data on its socioeconomic consequences. Methods: This retrospective longitudinal cohort study used pseudonymized patient-level data from Swedish registers and included narcolepsy patients from January 2015–December 2019 and age–sex matched controls. All patients received an index date corresponding to their first narcolepsy diagnosis. Results: This study included 466 incident narcolepsy patients and 2330 matched controls. During the years studied, healthcare resource utilization was 2–5 times higher for incident narcolepsy patients compared to matched controls (p < 0.0001). Modafinil, stimulants, and antidepressants were prescribed more often to incident narcolepsy patients (p < 0.0001). Work productivity was significantly impacted, as incident narcolepsy patients took 7.0–10.5 more sick leave days than their matched controls (p < 0.0001) and had an average of 14.8 net days of disability leave (associated with indirect costs of EUR 1630) versus only 5.8 days among matched controls (EUR 638) during the year of the index (p = 0.027). After controlling for age, sex, and the Charlson comorbidity index, the odds of disability leave were 3.3 times higher in incident narcolepsy patients. Conclusions: This study provides evidence of the magnitude of the substantial societal economic burden due to narcolepsy in Sweden, evidenced by higher healthcare resource utilization and indirect costs.
Post-Recovery Mental Health Outcomes in Young Adults with Mild-to-Moderate COVID-19: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Latifi Ashkan
Published: February 2025

Background: The long-term effects of COVID-19 infection represent an emerging area of research that explores the relationships between a history of COVID-19 infection and its consequential sequelae. This study investigates the potential associations among the time since infection, the severity of the acute phase of the disease, and sex, while controlling for age, in relation to mental health. Methods: A total of 305 university students participated in this cross-sectional study, during which data were collected using the SCL-90-R questionnaire. The analysis of the collected data was conducted using the MANCOVA, ANCOVA, and partial Kendall’s Tau methods. Results: The findings indicated that factors such as sex—specifically being female—longer time elapsed since infection, and disease severity significantly influenced multiple scales of the SCL-90-R. Conclusions: Based on these findings, it is recommended that investigations into mental health issues consider biological sex, COVID-19 severity, and the time since infection as potential risk factors among young adults with a history of COVID-19 infection.
Thermal Conductivity Modeling for Liquid-Phase-Sintered Silicon Carbide Ceramics Using Machine Learning Computational Methods
Authors: Ibn Shamsah Sami M.
Published: February 2025

Silicon carbide is a covalently bonded engineering material and structural ceramic with excellent mechanical properties, high resistance to oxidation, corrosion, and wear, and tunable thermal conductivity. The exceptional thermal conductivity of silicon carbide ceramic promotes its candidature in many industrial applications, such as nuclear fuel capsule materials, substrate materials employed in semiconductor devices, heater plates, and heaters for processing semiconductor and gas seal rings employed in compressor pumps, among others. The synthesis of polycrystalline silicon carbide through the liquid-phase sintering approach results in lower thermal conductivity due to the presence of structural defects associated with grains, lattice impurities, grains’ random orientations, and the presence of secondary phases in polycrystalline silicon carbide ceramic. The conventional experimental method of enhancing thermal conductivity is laborious and expensive. This present work modeled the thermal conductivity of liquid-phase silicon carbide ceramic via intelligent approaches involving genetic algorithm-optimized support vector regression (SVR-GA), an extreme learning machine with a sine activation function (ELMS), and random forest regression (RFR). The descriptors for the models included the nature of sintering additives as well as their weights, sintering conditions, applied pressure, sintering temperature, and time. Using the mean absolute error (MAE) and root mean square error (RMSE) for performance assessment, it was observed that the ELMS outperformed the RFR and SVR-GA models with improvements of 40.50% and 25.76%, respectively, using the MAE metric and improvements of 16.57% and 24.43%, respectively, using the RMSE metric. The developed models were further used to investigate the effect of the weight of sintering additives and sintering time on the thermal conductivity of silicon carbide ceramic. The precision of the developed models facilitated a comprehensive investigation of the effect of sintering factors on thermal conductivity while hidden connections that exist between the factors are uncovered for enhancing application domains for silicon carbide ceramics.
Adult Congenital Heart Disease in Serbia: Insights from a Single-Center Registry
Authors: Nikolić Aleksandra , Veljković Stefan , Lakčević Jovana , Peruničić Ana , Šljivo Armin , Babić Miloš , Nikolić Marko , Tomić Slobodan , Radoičić Dragana , Farkić Mihajlo , Boljević Darko , Vučinić Sanja , Kablar Sanja , Bojić Milovan
Published: February 2025

Background/Objectives: Congenital heart disease (CHD), affecting approximately 1% of live births, has transitioned to a chronic condition due to advances in diagnostics and surgery, resulting in an increasing adult congenital heart disease (ACHD) population. This study characterizes the clinical and demographic profiles of ACHD patients in Serbia, focusing on congenital anomalies, mortality rates, and key clinical factors to identify opportunities for improving care and outcomes. Methods: This observational single-center study was conducted at the Cardiovascular Institute “Dedinje” in Belgrade, Serbia, involving patients diagnosed or treated for CHD between 2006 and 2022. Results: A total of 1532 patients were included in the study, with common diagnoses including atrial septal defects (ASD) (47.65%) and ventricular septal defects (VSD) (13.19%). The mean patient age was 48.31 years, with a slight predominance of females (57.21%). The complexity of CHD was categorized as mild (54.6%), moderate (36.5%), and severe (6.3%). The mortality rate was 4.2%, with higher rates observed in conditions like Ebstein anomaly (17.78%) and congenital aortic stenosis (11.76%). Conclusions: This study provides a comprehensive overview of the current state of ACHD management in Serbia, highlighting the high prevalence of ASD and VSD among patients, the challenges associated with moderate and severe CHD, and the notable mortality rates for certain conditions. The findings underscore the importance of improving early detection, individualized treatment plans, and multidisciplinary care to enhance patient outcomes in this growing population.
Confocal Laser Endomicroscopy: Enhancing Intraoperative Decision Making in Neurosurgery
Authors: Carbone Francesco , Fochi Nicola Pio , Di Perna Giuseppe , Wagner Arthur , Schlegel Jürgen , Ranieri Elena , Spetzger Uwe , Armocida Daniele , Cofano Fabio , Garbossa Diego , Leone Augusto , Colamaria Antonio
Published: February 2025

Brain tumors, both primary and metastatic, represent a significant global health burden due to their high incidence, mortality, and the severe neurological deficits they frequently cause. Gliomas, especially high-grade gliomas (HGGs), rank among the most aggressive and lethal neoplasms, with only modest gains in long-term survival despite extensive molecular research and established standard therapies. In neurosurgical practice, maximizing the extent of safe resection is a principal strategy for improving clinical outcomes. Yet, the infiltrative nature of gliomas often complicates the accurate delineation of tumor margins. Confocal laser endomicroscopy (CLE), originally introduced in gastroenterology, has recently gained prominence in neuro-oncology by enabling real-time, high-resolution cellular imaging during surgery. This technique allows for intraoperative tumor characterization and reduces dependence on time-consuming frozen-section analyses. Recent technological advances, including device miniaturization and second-generation CLE systems, have substantially improved image quality and diagnostic utility. Furthermore, integration with deep learning algorithms and telepathology platforms fosters automated image interpretation and remote expert consultations, thereby accelerating surgical decision making and enhancing diagnostic consistency. Future work should address remaining challenges, such as mitigating motion artifacts, refining training protocols, and broadening the range of applicable fluorescent probes, to solidify CLE’s role as a critical intraoperative adjunct in neurosurgical oncology.
A High Performance Air-to-Air Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Target Detection Model
Authors: Hao Hexiang , Peng Yueping , Ye Zecong , Han Baixuan , Zhang Xuekai , Tang Wei , Kang Wenchao , Li Qilong
Published: February 2025

In the air-to-air UAV target detection tasks, the existing algorithms suffer from low precision, low recall and high dependence on device processing power, which makes it difficult to detect UAV small targets efficiently. To solve the above problems, this paper proposes an high-precision model, ATA-YOLOv8. In this paper, we analyze the problem of UAV small target detection from the perspective of the efficient receptive field. The proposed model is evaluated using two air-to-air UAV image datasets, MOT-FLY and Det-Fly, and compared with YOLOv8n and other SOTA algorithms. The experimental results show that the mAP50 of ATA-YOLOv8 is 94.9% and 96.4% on the MOT-FLY and Det-Fly datasets, respectively, which are 25% and 5.9% higher than the mAP of YOLOv8n, while maintaining a model size of 5.1 MB. The methods in this paper improve the accuracy of UAV target detection in air-to-air scenarios. The proposed model’s small size, fast speed and high accuracy make it possible for real-time air-to-air UAV detection on edge-computing devices.
The Origins of Modern Species Distribution Modelling: Some Comments on the Vasconcelos et al. (2024) Review
Authors: Booth Trevor H.
Published: February 2025

A recent review of species distribution modelling (SDM) published in Earth contains much useful information. However, the introductory paragraphs lack basic information about the first SDM package called BIOCLIM, which became available in January 1984. For example, BIOCLIM-related advances underpinned the development of the most used SDM variables and data. The first SDM climate change studies published in 1988 highlighted the importance of ex situ and native distribution data. This brief note highlights the importance of the early SDM work and its continuing relevance.
Frequency Multipliers Based on a Dual-Gate Graphene FET with M-Shaped Resistance Characteristics on a Flexible Substrate
Authors: Tian Jiaojiao , Peng Pei , Ren Zhongyang , Xia Chenhao , Ren Liming , Liu Fei , Fu Yunyi
Published: February 2025

Frequency multipliers are essential components in communication systems, and graphene’s exceptional electrical properties make it highly promising for flexible electronics. This paper addresses the technical challenges of multi-frequency multipliers based on graphene field-effect transistors (GFETs) and introduces a novel fabrication method using graphene as the channel material and metals with different work functions as the top gate. By employing Ti and Pd with distinct work functions, we develop a dual-gate GFET device that exhibits stable M-shaped resistance characteristics on a flexible polyethylene naphthalate (PEN) substrate. We demonstrate frequency doubler, tripler, and quadrupler on the flexible substrate. The results show that the GFET-based frequency multiplier offers advantages such as low operating voltage (<1 V), high voltage conversion efficiency (up to 8.4% for tripler and 6% for quadrupler), and high spectral purity (up to 88% for tripler and 76% for quadrupler). The intrinsic maximum operating frequency of the frequency quadrupler reaches 54 GHz. The use of a monolayer graphene channel, dual-metal gate control enabling an M-shaped transfer curve, and flexible characteristics all contribute to its superior performance compared to conventional devices.
Human-Centric Microgrid Optimization: A Two-Time-Scale Framework Integrating Consumer Behavior
Authors: Zeng Ke , Yang Hanqing , Li Tieshan , Long Yue
Published: February 2025

This paper presents a two-time-scale human-centric microgrid optimization framework, developed based on singular perturbation theory. First, a comprehensive model is constructed, integrating the electrical characteristics of microgrid components with the evolutionary dynamics of consumer behavior. Subsequently, the system is decomposed into distinct fast and slow time scales using singular perturbation theory, enabling the effective separation of rapid electrical responses from the slower motivational dynamics of consumer behavior. Tailored optimal control strategies are then formulated for each time scale to ensure the rapid stabilization of fast system dynamics in response to transient disturbances and the gradual optimization of slow system dynamics under steady-state conditions. Finally, the proposed approach is validated through preliminary numerical simulations, which demonstrate its potential effectiveness in maintaining microgrid stability under transient conditions, facilitating behavioral adaptation, and improving operational efficiency of the microgrid.
4 × 4 Wideband Slot Antenna Array Fed by TE440 Mode Based on Groove Gap Waveguide
Authors: Shen Yuanjun , Zhang Tianling , Luo Liangqin , Zhu Honghuan , Chen Lei
Published: February 2025

A 4 × 4 wideband millimeter-wave (mmWave) slot array antenna excited by the TE440 mode based on the groove gap waveguide is presented in this paper. A vertical waveguide located in the center of the cavity and two ridges are used to excite the TE440 mode. In addition, a pair of corrugations acting as the soft surface are added on the top of the array antenna to improve the gain. A 4 × 4 prototype is fabricated and measured. The measured and simulated results are in great agreement. The measured results show that the proposed array antenna achieved an impedance bandwidth (|S11| < −10 dB) of 26.7% from 26.14 to 34.2 GHz, and the maximum gain is 17.7 dBi. The proposed array antenna avoids the complicated feeding network, allowing us to reduce the manufacturing cost.
Design of a Serendipity-Incorporated Recommender System
Authors: Kim Yuri , Oh Seoyeon , Noh Chaerin , Hong Eunbeen , Park Seongbin
Published: February 2025

Unexpected yet advantageous findings, often referred to as serendipitous discoveries, are becoming increasingly significant in the field of computer science. This research aims to examine the impact of factors that could potentially trigger such serendipity within a recommender system (RS) and consequently proposes a novel, serendipity-incorporated recommender system (SRS). The SRS is developed by integrating elements that could stimulate the occurrence of serendipity into an RS algorithm. These elements include interestingness, diversity, and unexpectedness. As a result, the SRS is equipped to provide users with recommendations that are surprising, intriguing, and atypical. The algorithm within the SRS recommends three items predicated on a user’s preferred item. To facilitate the selection of items to be recommended, we have designed a computation method called the ’serendipity measure’, which is tasked with calculating the weights of all items. Our innovative algorithm and its efficient execution are expounded upon extensively in this study. The performance of the SRS was assessed using a quantitative serendipity evaluation model (QSEM). This model is a quantitative tool designed to measure the probability of users encountering serendipitous events within a specific information space. We conducted a user study to compare the SRS with the traditional cold-start recommender system (CRS), and the feedback for the SRS was positively received. The experiments confirm the viability of cultivating a serendipitous environment from a system’s perspective. The test results also underline the exciting potential that serendipity brings to recommender systems.
The Tectonic Control on Shale Oil Migration and Accumulation of the Lower Jurassic Daanzhai Member of the Ziliujing Formation, Sichuan Basin, China
Authors: Li Zhuopei , Zhu Haihua , Wang Minglei , Zhang Benjian , Zhou Yadong , Hong Haitao , Li Yucong , Wang Xingzhi
Published: February 2025

In order to understand the tectonic control on shale oil migration and accumulation, samples of the Daanzhai Member of the Lower Jurassic Ziliujing Formation from the well core in a tectonically stable area and upright anticline outcrop were selected for total organic carbon (TOC) content analysis, rock pyrolysis, fluorescence scanning, and scanning electron microscopy. The results show the following: (1) In the tectonically stable area, the TOC of shale oil reservoirs is positively correlated with S1, and a high OSI interval usually occurs in high-TOC shales. The oil content of the limestone lamina decreases with an increasing distance from black shale. The vertical migration of shale oil into or across the lamina is not obvious and is mainly micro-scale. (2) The migration pathway includes a lamina interface, shell–clay interface, calcite cleavage, feldspar or calcite dissolution pores, and quartz or kaolinite intergranular pores. Large-scale shale oil migration time occurs at the peak of oil generation. (3) In the area of strong tectonic deformation, the formation of fractures in limestone further promotes the migration of oil from shale into the lamina. (4) The re-migration of shale oil during the uplift and deformation period involves three processes: upward migration in a clay matrix, then entry and migration along the limestone–shale interface from the lateral pinch-out points of the lamina, migration into the lamina joints, and then short diffusion into the limestone. (5) The migration of shale oil in the Daanzhai shale was controlled by the history of hydrocarbon generation and tectonic deformation and occurred in several stages.