bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Stonebrood Disease – Histomorphological Changes in Honey Bee Larvae (Apis mellifera) Experimentally Infected with Aspergillus flavus
Authors: von Knoblauch Tammo , Jensen Annette B. , Mülling Christoph K. W. , Heusinger Anton , Aupperle-Lellbach Heike , Genersch Elke
Published: January 2025

Stonebrood (Aspergillus sp.) is a rare; poorly described disease of the Western honey bee (Apis mellifera) that can affect adult bees and brood. This study describes the pathogenesis using artificially reared pathogen free Apis mellifera larvae, experimentally infected (5 x 102 spores/larva) with Aspergillus flavus. Between day 1 and 5 p.i. (larval age 4 until 8 days), 5 uninfected control larvae, up to 5 infected living larvae, and up to 5 infected dead larvae were collected and examined macroscopically. Subsequently the larvae were photographed, fixed (4% formaldehyde), and processed for histological examination (hematoxylin-eosin stain, Grocott silvering). Sections were digitized, measured (area, thickness), and statistically analyzed. 19 of 43 collected infected larvae showed signs of infection (germinating spores/fungal mycelium): dead larvae (from day 2 p.i.) showed clear histological and macroscopic signs of infection, while larvae collected alive (from day 1 p.i.) were only locally affected. Infected larvae were significantly smaller (day 2 p.i.: p < 0.001, 4 p.i.: p < 0.01, 5 p.i.: p < 0.01) than uninfected larvae (control group). The short incubation period and the early death during pathogenesis could explain why the disease often goes unnoticed: the worker bees remove dead larvae when mycelium has not yet infiltrated the brood cell.
Telehealth – Environment Friendly Way to Take Care of IBD Patients
Authors: Markovic Srdjan , Kralj Djordje , Knezevic Ivanovski Tamara , Svorcan Petar
Published: January 2025

Background/Objectives
On March 11, 2020, our hospital adapted to the COVID-19 pandemic by becoming a temporary COVID facility, leading to the suspension or delegation of non-COVID services. Among the international IBD community, there were significant concerns regarding the neglect of immunocompromised IBD patients and their increased vulnerability to COVID-19. To address these challenges, the COVID-19 ECCO Taskforce recommended the implementation of telehealth. Following this recommendation, our hospital's IT department integrated audiovisual hardware and software solutions to facilitate virtual consultations. This approach enabled patients and their local physicians to receive formal reports comparable to those issued during standard in-person care.
Methods
We retrospectively analyzed data from patients diagnosed with Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis who participated in telemedicine consultations. Average distances and time saved were calculated using Google Maps, while carbon emissions and carbon footprint reductions were determined using tools from CarbonFootprint.com and CO2Meter.com.
Results
Between August 11, 2021, and June 15, 2023, 107 telehealth consultations were completed. Patients benefited from reduced travel distances, with an average saving of 168.28 km per consultation and a total reduction of 18,006 km. Travel time savings averaged 2 hours and 22 minutes per consultation, amounting to a total of 252 hours saved. The reduction in carbon emissions was calculated at 3.26 tons, equivalent to the annual absorption capacity of 109 fully grown trees, considering an individual tree absorbs approximately 21.77 kg of CO2 annually. These findings underscore telemedicine’s role in reducing environmental impact while enhancing patient convenience.
Conclusions
The adoption of telehealth has successfully optimized outpatient clinic operations, maintaining high-quality patient outcomes while contributing to environmental sustainability.
Spermatophytes Mountain Food: An Added Value Chain View
Authors: Covaci Mihai , Covaci Brindusa , Selma Carla
Published: January 2025

This study delves into the agronomy of select expansive crops in the mountainous regions of Romania, examining the mountain Spermatophytes territorial profile and production dynamics of key vegetable resources including potato (Solanum tuberosum), maize (Zea mays), carrots (Daucus carota), parsnips (Pastinaca sativa), celery (Apium graveolens), and cabbage (Brassica oleracea). The research employs a multidisciplinary approach encompassing agronomical, statistical, territorial profile, and clinical methodologies, focusing on a diverse array of mountain products and producers. The findings indicate that for mountain vegetables to function as functional foods, they necessitate distinct treatments and agronomic interventions, diverging from those applied to low-land crops. Mountain Spermatophytes territorial profile, presented as maps, show a sustainable development of the highland area. The enhanced value-added chain of the aforementioned mountain products has experienced significant strengthening during the period of 2017-2021. This growth is attributed to unique agronomic treatments that resulted in heightened productivity, the prevailing pandemic context, and the distinctive development of the value-added chain specific to these crops.
Reduction of Influenza a Virus Prevalence in Pigs at Weaning After Using Custom-Made Influenza Vaccines in the Breeding Herds of an Integrated Swine Farm System
Authors: Mantilla Jorge Garrido , Sanhueza Juan , Alvarez Julio , Pittman Jeremy S , Davies Peter , Torremorell Montserrat , Culhane Marie Rene
Published: January 2025

Vaccination is a common influenza A virus (IAV) control strategy for pigs. Vaccine efficacy depends on strain cross-protection and effective vaccination program implementation. We evaluated a multi-faceted IAV vaccination strategy which included: a) monthly surveillance of pigs at weaning, b) selection of epidemiologically-relevant strains from farms under surveillance, c) updating IAV strains in custom-made vaccines, and d) seasonal mass vaccination with custom-made vaccines given to sows in 35 farrow-to-wean farms within an integrated swine farm system. Reduction of IAV in pigs from vaccinated sows was determined by monthly monitoring farms for 30 months by IAV rRT-PCR (PCR) testing of nasal wipes collected from litters of piglets at weaning. Hemagglutinin (HA) nucleotide and amino acid (AA) sequence homology of the circulating and vaccine strains was determined by pairwise alignment and AA comparison at antigenic sites. Of the 35 farms monitored, 28 (80%) tested positive at least once and 481 (5.75%) of 8,352 PCR tests were IAV positive. Complete HA sequences were obtained from 54 H1 (22 H1-δ_1B.2.1, 28 H1-γ_1A.3.3.3, and 4 H1-pdm_1A.3.3.2 clades) and 14 H3 (12 IV-A 3.1990.4.1 and 2 IV-B 3.1990.4.2 clades) circulating IAV strains. During the study, custom-made vaccines were updated three times (eight strains total) and administered to sows at five distinct time periods. The HA AA similarity between vaccine and circulating strains ranged from 95% to 99%; however, the 0 to 71% similarity at HA antigenic sites prompted the vaccine updates. Herd IAV prevalence decreased from 40% (14/35) to 2.9% (1/35) accompanied by a numerical reduction in IAV-positive samples post-vaccination. Our results support having a comprehensive approach to controlling influenza in swine herds that includes surveillance, vaccination, and careful program implementation to reduce IAV in pigs.
Automated Disassembly of Waste Printed Circuit Boards: The Role of Edge Computing and IoT
Authors: Mohsin Muhammad , Rovetta Stefano , Masulli Francesco , Cabri Alberto
Published: January 2025

The ever-growing volume of global electronic waste (e-waste) poses significant environmental and health challenges. Printed circuit boards (PCBs), which form the core of most electronic devices, contain valuable metals as well as hazardous materials. Efficient disassembly and recycling of e-waste is critical for both economic and environmental sustainability. Traditional manual disassembly methods are time-consuming, labor-intensive and often hazardous. The integration of edge computing and the Internet of Things (IoT) provides a novel approach to automating the disassembly process, potentially transforming the way e-waste is managed. Automated disassembly of WPCBs involves the use of advanced technologies, specifically edge computing and IoT, to streamline the recycling process. This strategy aims to improve the efficiency and sustainability of e-waste management by leveraging real-time data analytics and intelligent decision making at the edge of the network. This paper explores the application of edge computing and IoT in the automated disassembly of WPCBs, discussing the technological framework, benefits, challenges, and future prospects.
Review: Overview of Organic Cathode Materials in Lithium-Ion Batteries and Supercapacitors
Authors: Andezai Andekuba , Iroh Jude O.
Published: January 2025

Organic materials have emerged as promising candidates for cathode materials in lithium-ion batteries and supercapacitors, offering unique properties and advantages over traditional inorganic counterparts. This review explores the utilization of organic compounds as cathode materials in energy storage devices, focusing on their application in lithium-ion batteries and supercapacitors. The review looks into various types of organic materials, organosulfur compounds, organic free radical compounds, organic carbonyl compounds, conducting polymers, and imine compounds. The advantages, challenges, and ongoing developments in this field are explored, highlighting the potential of organic cathode materials in achieving higher energy density, improved cycling stability, and environmental sustainability. The comprehensive analysis of organic cathode materials provides insights into their electrochemical performance, electrode reaction mechanisms, and design strategies such as molecular structure modification, hybridization with inorganic components, porous architectures, conductive additives, electrolyte optimization, binder selection, and electrode architecture for enhancing their efficiency and performance. Moreover, future research in the field of organic cathode materials should focus on addressing current limitations such as low energy density, cycling stability, poor rate capability, and potential safety concerns, and advancing their performance. This includes enhancing conductivity, optimizing synthesis methods, improving structural stability, addressing capacity fading and cycle life issues, exploring new redox-active organic compounds, and paving the way for the next generation of high-performance energy storage devices. Additionally, the development of scalable and cost-effective manufacturing processes for organic cathode materials is crucial for their commercial viability.
Optimizing Provider Test Ordering and Patient Outcomes Through Best Practice Alerts and Doctorate in Clinical Laboratory Sciences (DCLS) Consultation for Urine Cultures
Authors: Fountain Amy , Williams-Bouyer Natalie , Ren Ping , Carman Carol , Salazar Jose H. , Rajendran Rajkumar
Published: January 2025

Recent initiatives have discouraged the treatment of asymptomatic bacteriuria in specific patient populations due to its lack of clinical benefit, no improvement in morbidity or mortality, and contributes to antibiotic overuse. This study aimed to evaluate whether an intervention at order entry, combined with DCLS laboratory consultation for urine cultures and urinalyses, could reduce unnecessary lab tests and inappropriate antibiotic use, thereby improving patient outcomes. Our research design was a quasi-experimental study with a retrospective and prospective chart review on non-pregnant adult patients 18 years of age and older from July 2021 to September 2022. Data collected for both reviews included patient demographics, provider demographics, patient signs and symptoms, laboratory test results, test order type, test order utilization and antibiotic prescriptions. Our study included 6,372 patients, with 3,408 in the retrospective review and 2,964 in the prospective review. Before the intervention, 60% (n=2,053) of test orders were inappropriate, which decreased to 20% (n=591) post-intervention. In asymptomatic patients, reflexed urine cultures decreased from 51% to 13% post intervention. Lastly, in asymptomatic patients, antibiotic therapy at discharge dropped from 54% to 25% after the intervention. Post-intervention ordering practices improved, decreasing the number of inappropriate orders across all patient and provider types. Overall, this initiative showed a significant reduction in the treatment of asymptomatic bacteriuria which has been linked to the overuse of antibiotic therapy.
Átmeneti város : Tartós ideiglenes városi beavatkozások Hollandia nagyvárosaiban
Authors: Barta Fruzsina , Horváth-Farkas Zsófia
Published: January 2025

Gyakorta foglalkozunk a múlt adottságaival vagy próbáljuk az ideális megoldást megtalálni a jövő kérdéseire, ebben a tanulmányban viszont arra fókuszálunk, hogy mi történik „mindeközben.” Amikor a megszokott sémák a hirtelen változások következtében felülíródnak, de még nem tiszta, hogy mi lesz helyette. Tervezni a „most”-ra, tudva, hogy nem tart sokáig, de elősegítve, hogy a változás pozitív legyen. A gyorsan megvalósítható és könnyen adaptálható, tartósan ideiglenes városi beavatkozások célzott városfejlesztési stratégiaként való alkalmazása épp ezt célozza. Bár a 10–15 évre tervezett beavatkozások egy város életében kifejezetten rövid időnek számítanak, egy-egy jól sikerült projekt felértékelheti az addig alul- vagy rosszul hasznosított területet, bevonva azt a város vérkeringésébe. Ez a módszer jelenik meg Hollandia nagyobb városai esetében is. Az óriási lakáshiánnyal küzdő, ugyanakkor szűkös területi adottságokkal rendelkező országban egyre több helyen kezdték el fejlesztés alá vonni a nehezen beépíthető, befektetői szempontból kockázatosnak értékelt területeket. De hogyan vonhatóak be a város életébe újra az elnéptelenedett vagy kedvezőtlen városi negyedek? A választ a katalizátorszerű ideiglenes beavatkozások adhatják meg, amelyek szerepükkel újra funkcióval töltik meg ezeket a területeket. A tudatosan rövid távra tervezés egyrészt felkészít az egyre sűrűbben és dinamikusabban bekövetkező változásokra, másrész teret biztosít a kísérletezésre. Ily módon a tervezési folyamat egyszerre lesz kötöttebb az idő és anyag által, ugyanakkor felszabadul a maradandóság nyomása alól. Az ideiglenességből adódóan olyan tervezési elvek alapján formált projektek ezek, amik magukba foglalják a későbbi bontást vagy áthelyezést. Az esszé célja ezeket a különböző attitűdöket bemutatni és az általuk generált városi folyamatokat leírni.
Atmoszférikus séták
Authors: Dobos Bence László
Published: January 2025

Egy belső tér vagy egy épület kapcsán gyakran beszélünk arról, hogy az rendelkezik bizonyos atmoszférával. Habár a fogalom sokszor megfoghatatlan és homályos, mégis része a mindennapi tapasztalatnak. De mi a helyzet egy utcával, egy városrésszel, vagy akár egy egész várossal? A város atmoszférája egy mindenki számára elérhető fenomén, amelyen egyaránt osztoznak a városlakók és a turisták. A város használói nem csak passzív befogadói az városi atmoszférának, hanem közösen hozzák létre, aktívan alakítják azt. A sokféle tényező összjátékában fontos szerepet tölt be a városi színtéren kibontakozó élet. A város atmoszférája mindenütt és minden pillanatban jelenlévő háttérminőségként manifesztálódik. Mindenkori léptéke a saját megélt-testünk. A testi jelenléten és a sétálás aktusán keresztül jön létre a városi atmoszférikus táj, amelyben az illatok, hangok, épületsziluettek mind mozgásra és cselekvésre invitálnak. Az atmoszférákat nem pusztán a mozgás által érzékeljük, hanem azáltal is, ahogy áthaladunk a városon. A városi textúrák, anyagminőségek és taktilis tapasztalatok mind a lassú áthaladás által érhetőek el. A sétálás atmoszférikus értelemben benne tart a városban, azaz a mozgás által a városban lüktető élet részévé válhatunk. Éppen annyira érzékeljük a környezet részének az atmoszférát, mint amennyire mi magunk is részt veszünk a létrejöttében. A város ritmusát, lüktetését kevésbé tudjuk mérni, mint inkább érezni, megélni.
Plan de negocios para la comercialización de juguetes interactivos para mascotas únicas en departamentos de Lima Metropolitana
Authors:   , Araujo Ñahuis Alexandra Francesca , Gordillo Paredes Fidel Uber , Moran Hernandez Javier Antonio
Published: January 2025

Pet Toy, una empresa de comercio electrónico que vende juguetes interactivos para perros rellenos de alimentos se prepara para entrar en el mercado con el objetivo de satisfacer las necesidades de entretenimiento y nutrición de nuestras mascotas. Como nuestra empresa es nueva en el mercado, hay emocionantes oportunidades para crecer e innovar. Pet Toy mejora la vida de los perros, manteniéndolos activos y mentalmente estimulados. Nuestros productos fortalecen las relaciones entre las mascotas y sus dueños, ayudan a sus mascotas a llevar un estilo de vida saludable. A través de un análisis de mercado, un análisis FODA y un mapa de empatía, hemos identificado fortalezas y oportunidades. La satisfacción del cliente, el aumento de la base de usuarios y la consolidación de nuestra presencia en línea son nuestros objetivos principales. Hemos creado estrategias de marketing tradicionales y digitales para diferenciarnos y aumentar la conciencia de nuestra marca. La entrega eficiente de nuestros productos y la satisfacción del cliente son garantizadas por nuestra estrategia operativa. Para nosotros, la gestión del talento humano es fundamental, y hemos desarrollado un plan para atraer y retener a los mejores profesionales. A través de la tecnología, hemos protegido los datos de nuestros clientes y cumplido con todos los requisitos legales. En el ámbito financiero, disponemos de un presupuesto sólido y una estrategia enfocada en el desarrollo y la rentabilidad a largo plazo. Este plan de negocios, respaldado por un análisis exhaustivo del mercado centrado en garantizar una operación económica estable, es una guía confiable. Estamos ansiosos por ofrecer productos de alta calidad a nuestras queridas mascotas y nos emociona el potencial que tiene este mercado.
Gestión de la jornada laboral y productividad en una entidad financiera, distrito de Lurín (Lima-Perú), 2022
Authors:   , Retes Huaman Gabriela Edith , Perez Caceres Gloria Amelia
Published: January 2025

La investigación titulada “Gestión de la jornada laboral y productividad en una entidad financiera, distrito de Lurín (Lima-Perú), 2022”; ha tenido como objetivo determinar la relación entre gestión de la jornada laboral y productividad en una entidad financiera en el distrito de Lurín (Lima-Perú), 2022. El diseño utilizado fue no experimental transeccional correlacional-causal, con enfoque cuantitativo trabajándose con la estadística descriptiva e inferencial. La población estuvo compuesta por 30 colaboradores de la entidad financiera en estudio, empleando la técnica de la encuesta. Se utilizó la correlación de Spearman para analizar las hipótesis planteadas en la investigación. Este trabajo proporciona información relativa a la gestión de la jornada laboral y productividad en la empresa evaluada; y se concluyó que existe una relación directa y significativa entre las dos variables. Se afirma estos resultados debido a que se obtuvo un coeficiente Rho de Spearman (Rho=0.770) y un nivel de significancia (sig=0.000). Por consiguiente, la hipótesis alterna es verdadera, la cual confirma la relación positiva entre las variables.
Epitaxially-grown mode-tunable InP micro-ring lasers
Authors: Wong Wei Wen , Su Zhicheng , Wang Naiyin , Jagadish Chennupati , Tan Hark
Published: January 2025

In the near future, technological advances driven by the Fourth Industrial Revolution will boost the demand for integrated, power-efficient miniature lasers, which are important for optical data communications and advanced sensing applications. Although top-down fabricated III-V semiconductor micro-disk and micro-ring lasers have been shown to be efficient light sources, challenges such as etching-induced sidewall roughness and poor fabrication scalability have been limiting the potential for high-density on-chip integration. Here, we demonstrate InP micro-ring lasers fabricated with a highly-scalable epitaxial growth technique. With an optimized cavity design, the optically-pumped micro-ring lasers show efficient room-temperature lasing with lasing threshold of around 50 μJ cm-2 per pulse. Remarkably, through comprehensive modelling of the micro-ring laser, we demonstrate experimentally lasing mode engineering by tuning the vertical ring height. Our work is a major step toward realizing high-density monolithic integration of III-V miniature lasers on submicron-scale optoelectronic devices.
Femto-joule threshold reconfigurable all-optical nonlinear activators for picosecond spiking neural networks
Authors: Lin Hongtao , Liu Ruizhe , Wang Zijia , Zhong Chuyu , Chen Yan , Sun Boshu , Jian Jialing , Ma Hui , Gao Dawei , yang jianyi , Li Lan , Liu Kaihui , Hu Xiaoyong
Published: January 2025

Achieving optical computing with thousands of tera-operations per second per watt per square millimeter (TOPs/W/mm 2 ) is the key to surpassing electrical computing. This realization requires a breakthrough in the design of a new optical computing architecture and nonlinear activation functions. In this work, we propose an on-chip picosecond spiking optical neural network architecture, which can be expected to achieve 2.13×10 3 TOPs/mm2. By leveraging the Kerr effect of silicon and the saturable absorption of graphene, we designed an all-optical nonlinear activator based on a graphene-silicon integrated photonic crystal cavity. The ultralow threshold, high-speed, compact, and reconfigurable all-optical nonlinear activator could achieve a 4 fJ activation energy threshold, a 1.05 ps response time, and an ultrasmall size of 15 µm×10 µm. This device provides foundation blocks for the picosecond spiking optical neural network chip to achieve 106 TOPs/W/mm2 level optical computing.
High-Dimensional One-Shot Optical Field Compressive Sensing of Structured Light
Authors: Li Zhengyan , Hu Yaodan , Men Ting , Yan Mingdong , Tang Weiqi , Tang Haocheng , Fan Kuanjun
Published: January 2025

Light detection, no matter with human eyes or photodetectors, has long been limited by dimensions of obtained information. The term “dimension” refers to not only the three-dimensional (3D) space and the one-dimensional (1D) time, but also physical quantities completely defining a light field such as amplitude, phase, polarization, wavelength. Conventional light detections mainly capture two-dimensional (2D) transverse spatial intensity (amplitude), sometimes color or wavelength resolved, and great efforts have been taken to expand the optical sensing dimensions. As various types of novel structured light are enabled by advanced optical field manipulation approaches, full-dimensional optical sensing of arbitrary light fields is highly demanded, to resolve 3D spatiotemporal amplitude, phase, polarization, and wavelength information. Here we have proved the concept of high-dimensional one-shot optical field compressive sensing, resolving full-dimensional information of any light field. Besides ordinary light fields with spatiotemporally uniform polarization states, full-dimensional metrologies of complicated structured light are conducted, including optical vortices, radially and azimuthally polarized beams, polarization-gating fields. It is believed that this novel light detection framework can not only be further compactly implemented for high-dimensional one-shot light detectors, but also observe dynamic physical processes in real-time.
Observation of ultrametricity in photonic spin glasses
Authors: Ghofraniha Neda , Camara Josivanir Gomes , Ferretti Stefano , Gentilini Silvia , Silva Davinson Da , Conti Claudio
Published: January 2025

Hierarchy is the architecture of complex systems [1]. While Euclidean metric describes homogeneous and static systems, ultrametric geometry is for heterogeneous ensembles, hierarchic relations and dynamic contexts. Applications spread across all fields: communication technologies, information retrieval, clusterwise regression, analysis and synthesis of narratives and emotions [2].
The paradigmatic model describing complex systems is the spin glass theory, according to which the topology of the many metastable energy states is intrinsically ultrametric, as a consequence of the breaking of their symmetry [3]. Despite the importance, a real experimental observation of the universal behaviour has not yet been reported, due to the difficulty of finding a physical system that displays all the characteristics of spin glasses.
Random lasers have recently been proposed as excellent photonic counterparts of spin glasses with robust replica symmetry breaking features [4–6].
Here, we report the ultrametric structure of the replica space with clustered domains in random lasers, as predicted in the Parisi Ansatz [7]. We show that the number of the states forming isosceles triangles in the metric space increases through the laser threshold giving rise to the construction of a genealogical tree. Moreover, from the hierarchical topology of the states we obtain a direct observation of the complex energy landscape with evident breaking of ergodicity in the glassy regime. Our results, as well as being a milestone in complexity science, fuel the lively research into physical systems which in recent years has been leading to the creation of optical computers and quantum annealers [8–12].
Wirelessly-powered, Electronics-free Ultrasonic Tags for Continuous Wearable Health Monitoring in Epidermal and Ocular Applications
Authors: Beker Levent , Toymus Alp , Peker Süleyman , Atik Abdülkadir , Yener Umut , Albay Maide , Yılgör Emel , Yılgör İskender
Published: January 2025

Medical ultrasound is widely used, but the size, complexity, and need for trained operators currently restrict its use to clinical settings, limiting opportunities for continuous patient monitoring. Despite the rapid emergence of wearable ultrasound technologies in the research community, the common practice still requires wired connections to benchtop instruments. While a few fully wearable and integrated solutions do exist, complex ultrasound electronics are bulky and power-hungry, impeding unobtrusive sensing and seamless integration to patients’ daily lives. Here, we report miniaturized ultrasonic tags (US tags) in epidermal patch and contact lens formats that are entirely electronics-free, thereby enabling comfortable, continuous, and operator-free ultrasonic measurements at multiple anatomical sites, including bladder volume, axial eye length, and blood pressure. Ultrasonic transducers are coupled with mm-sized antennas to enable on-demand, wireless measurements without bulky electronics, when in proximity to an external coil. We demonstrate the versatility of the ultrasonic tags through in vitro, ex vivo and in vivo experiments for various monitoring applications, including bladder volume, axial eye length and blood pressure, paving the way for their widespread integration into future healthcare solutions.
The effect of treatment preferences on survival in early stage breast cancer in elderly patients over 65 years of age
Authors: Uguztemur Esma , Salim Derya Kivrak
Published: January 2025

Background
The increasing incidence and mortality of breast cancer with age remains a major health concern, particularly in the elderly population. However, the under-representation of older patients in clinical trials complicates our understanding of the characteristics of this population. In this retrospective study, we evaluated breast cancer patients aged 65 years and older with early-stage hormone receptor-positive, HER2-negative disease.
Method
A total of 157 patients were included in the study. We compared groups who received postoperative chemotherapy or hormonal therapy, and evaluated several clinical and pathological factors.Factors affecting relapse-free survival (RFS) and overall survival (OS) were evaluated.
Results
Our results showed a lower overall survival in the hormone therapy group compared to the chemotherapy group. However, this difference suggested the influence of not only the preference for non-aggressive treatments, but also the effect of comorbidities and life expectancy. Analysis of the causes of death showed that coronary heart disease was prominent in the hormone therapy group, suggesting that most deaths were due to causes other than breast cancer recurrence.
Conclusions
Our results highlight the importance of considering overall health and life expectancy when deciding on treatment options for advanced breast cancer patients. In addition, findings suggesting that aggressive treatments in older patients may provide limited benefit and reduce quality of life emphasise the need for more personalised treatment strategies in this population.
Understanding of Germination Duration and Cereal Type on the Quality and Sensory Attributes of Bread during Primary Fermentation
Authors: Kassegn Hagos Hailu , Meresa Birhanu Kahsay , Tesfu Daniel Balema
Published: January 2025

This study evaluated the impact of germination time and cereal type on nutrient content and sensory attributes of bread using germinated flours as a natural starter culture. Wheat varieties (Ashehan and Global) and oats were soaked for 12 hours, and then germinated for 48, 72, and 96 hours. After drying (27–30°C) for 48 hours, grains were milled into whole flour. Breads made from these germinated flours were analyzed for proximate composition, minerals, and sensory qualities. Bread made with Ashehan germinated flour (48–96 hours) showed fat (2.91–3.08%), protein (13.79–14.38%), carbohydrate (61.08–62.13%), and energy (328.03–331.49 kcal/100g) content. Global wheat showed similar trends, while oats had higher values, with fat (4.36–4.59%), protein (16.18–19.26%), and energy (336.48–359.99 kcal/100g). Germination significantly increased protein, energy, and mineral contents, especially in oats germinated for 96 hours (calcium 24.51 mg/100g, zinc 1.85 mg/100g, iron 2.44 mg/100g). Sensory tests indicated that germination at 72 hours improved bread acceptability, particularly in taste, with Ashehan, Global, and oats achieving the highest scores. Non-germinated (yeast-fermented) samples were least preferred. This study suggests that germination, especially at 72 hours, enhances bread quality and could be effective in traditional starter development.
Effects of different exogenous additives on humification and microbial community during tomato straw composting process
Authors: Shu Luolin , Yang Yuanyuan , Zheng Xue , Chen Qi , Yang Zhenchao , Wu Yongjun
Published: January 2025

This study investigates the effects of biochar, phosphogypsum, and calcium superphosphate on composting tomato straw to improve compost quality and reduce composting time. Four treatments were tested: T1 (tomato straw + 0.5% EM bacterial agent), T2 (tomato straw + 10% biochar + 0.5% EM), T3 (tomato straw + 10% superphosphate + 0.5% EM), and T4 (tomato straw + 10% phosphogypsum + 0.5% EM). Results showed that these additives extended the high-temperature phase and improved compost maturity, with T2 being the most effective. T2 exhibited the highest increase in humic acid (127.01%) and the greatest degradation of organic matter (63%) and cellulose (69.82%), outperforming the control (p < 0.05). Microbial analysis revealed that Firmicutes, Actinobacteriota, and Proteobacteria dominated the phylum level, while Bacillus, Weissella, Staphylococcus, and Halocella were key genera. Corynebacterium was identified as the main microorganism responsible for spoilage and maturation. This study highlights biochar’s role in enhancing humification in tomato straw composting.
Measles Outbreak Investigation in Kakumiro District, Uganda, February–May 2024
Authors: Okello Emmanuel Okiror , Migisha Richard , Ampaire Immaculate , Nsubuga Fred , Nalwanga Joanita , Kwizera Patrick , Okello Paul Edward , Bulage Lilian , Kwesiga Benon , Ario Alex Riolexus
Published: January 2025

Background: On April 7, 2024, the Uganda Ministry of Health was notified of a measles outbreak in Kakumiro District involving death of a suspected case. We investigated to determine the scope of the outbreak, assess risk factors for disease transmission, and recommend evidenced-based interventions.
Methods: We defined a suspected case as onset of fever and maculopapular generalized rash with ≥1 of cough, coryza, or conjunctivitis in any resident of Kakumiro District during February–May 2024. A confirmed case was a suspected case with laboratory confirmation for measles Immunoglobulin M (IgM) antibody. We line-listed cases, performed descriptive analysis, and conducted a 1:1 case-control study with 100 randomly selected cases and village-matched controls. We identified risk factors using logistic regression and estimated vaccine coverage using the percentage of eligible controls who had received ≥1 dose of measles vaccine. We calculated Vaccine Effectiveness (VE) as VE= 1−ORadj×100%, where ORadj is the adjusted odds ratio associated with having received ≥1 dose of measles vaccine.
Results: We identified 188 suspected cases, including 6 (3.2%) confirmed and 1 (0.5%) death. The overall attack rate (AR) was 67/100,000 persons. Children aged <9 months (AR=232/100,000) and those aged 9 months–≤5 years (AR=177/100,000) were the most affected. The most affected sub-counties were Kisengwe (AR=313/100,000), Kasambya (AR=126/100,000) and Kakumiro Town Council (AR=110/100,00). Non-vaccination (aOR=2.9, 95%CI: 1.1-7.6), exposure to a measles case in a health facility during exposure period (aOR=47, 95%CI: 6.09-369) and exposure to measles case in the same household during exposure period (aOR=9.3, 95%CI: 2.9-30) were associated with measles infections. Vaccine coverage was 88% (95%CI: 79%-94%) and vaccine effectiveness was 65% (95%CI: 13%-91%). We observed crowding and lack of triaging/isolation in health facilities.
Conclusions: This outbreak was facilitated by non-vaccination and propagated by exposure to infected persons in health facilities and households. We recommended to MoH to conduct a supplementary immunization activity that included children <9 months in the target group. Triaging and isolation of cases might help to reduce the spread of measles in future outbreaks. There is also need to develop strategies to improve vaccine effectiveness in the district.
Characterizing the Influence of Q-Stress on Mixed-Mode I/II Fracture in Elastic-Plastic Materials
Authors: Oskui Abuzar Es’haghi , Khabaz-Aghdam Ata , Cao Jinrui , Hasannezhad Hosein , Astaraki Sajjad
Published: January 2025

A two-parameter fracture framework is used to investigate the fracture behavior of AM60 magnesium alloy under different loading conditions. In order to perform fracture tests, a modified Arcan apparatus capable of applying pure tension, pure shear, and mixed tension-shear loading conditions was used. Various crack-tip constraints were obtained by altering the loading angle from mode-I to mode-II and crack length ratio between 0.3 and 0.7. The experimental results indicate that the material exhibits greater susceptibility to crack propagation under tension mode than shear mode. JC in pure shear demonstrates a decrease of 40.84% relative to JC in pure tension at 0.5 crack length ratio. Finite element analysis was employed to determine the crack-tip constraint parameter (Q) under various loading and geometric conditions, revealing a pronounced dependence of crack-tip constraint on them, with the latter's effect increasing at higher loading angles. These dependencies were approximated as linear relationships. To reduce the need for extensive experimental testing, J-Q curves were developed for different constraint levels, facilitating the estimation of critical JC values directly from the crack-tip constraint. The proposed methodology demonstrated deviations between predicted and experimental JC values ranging from 0.15–14.43%. Additionally, the J-R resistance curve was refined to incorporate Q-dependency, further minimizing experimental efforts. The findings underscore the robustness and practicality of this approach in accurately predicting fracture parameters while significantly reducing reliance on experimental fracture tests.
Interaction between MUC1 and β-catenin promotes transformation of adenomas to adenocarcinomas in Familial Adenomatous Polyposis
Authors: Li Yinan , Shi Wenjun , Luo Pei , Cheng Xianshuo , Yang Jun , Li Yunfeng , Tian Linghan , Ren Nanlu , Dong Jian
Published: January 2025

Purpose
This study aims to elucidate the mechanisms of interaction between MUC1 and β-catenin in the transformation from adenoma to adenocarcinoma in FAP, providing insights for potential interventions in this progression and establishing a scientific basis for the prevention and treatment of FAP.
Methods
(1)Bioinformatics and Clinical Specimen Analysis to investigate the differential expression of MUC1 and β-catenin and their association with clinical characteristics, including tumor staging, grading, metastasis, and survival outcomes in CRC. (2)Confirmation of MUC1-β-catenin Complexes using Alphafold, PyMol, immunofluorescence, and co-immunoprecipitation techniques. (3)Regulation of β-catenin through inhibitors, siRNA, and lentivirus to modulate β-catenin levels and assess MUC1 expression. (4)Biological behavior observation to evaluate changes in the biological behavior of APC mutant cells following MUC1 knockdown or overexpression.
Results
(1)Both MUC1 and β-catenin are overexpressed in colorectal cancer, with high expression correlating with poor prognosis. (2)In APC mutant colorectal cell lines, MUC1 knockdown inhibits cell proliferation, migration, and invasion, while MUC1 overexpression enhances these behaviors. (3)Both in vitro and in vivo models, β-catenin regulates MUC1 expression and interacts with it. Modulating MUC1 or β-catenin influences the binding or dissociation of MUC1-β-catenin complexes, impacting downstream signaling pathways.
Conclusion
In FAP patients, APC gene mutations impair β-catenin degradation within the WNT signaling pathway. Consequently, MUC1 is recruited around free β-catenin, forming a stable complex that promotes the progression from adenoma to adenocarcinoma by activating the WNT/β-catenin pathways. Inhibiting the interaction between MUC1 and β-catenin may offer significant potential for the prevention and treatment of FAP.
In Silico Evaluation of Quercetin and Gallic Acid from Saraca Asoca as Potential Therapeutic Compounds for Wound Healing and Inflammation
Authors: Jain Aishwarya , Bhise Kiran
Published: January 2025

This study discusses the possibility of quercetin and gallic acid, which are isolates of Saraca Asoca, being applied to the wound healing process. Three molecular docking simulations on the following key targets with these compounds were conducted: vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 (VEGFR2) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2). Quercetin exhibited exceptional binding affinity at the active site of VEGFR2, with a docking energy value of -9.3 kcal/mol and two hydrogen bonds with Cys919 and Glu917 besides more polar interactions at the catechol ring. Gallic acid was also strongly bound, the docking energy value being − 6.0 kcal/mol, with three hydrogen bonds with Cys919 and Glu917. For COX-2, quercetin filled the active pocket with − 7.4 kcal/mol of docking energy, establishing five hydrogen bonds with such important residues as Lys83 and Tyr115. A docking energy of -6.5 kcal/mol was produced by gallic acid through three significant hydrogen bonds with Thr206, His207, and Tyr385. These results explain the promising possibility of quercetin and gallic acid as pharmaceuticals in the acceleration of wound healing through the possibility of interaction with VEGFR2 and COX-2. This study is, therefore, crucial evidence of the bioactive substances of Saraca Asoca and raises more possibilities that would be continued with additional experiments for further review of its mechanism of action.
Association Between Weight-Adjusted Waist Index and All-Cause and Cardiovascular Mortality in Hypertensive Patients: NHANES 2001–2018
Authors: YAO Jiechun , Lin Chun , Xu Qingbo , Li Guode
Published: January 2025

Background
With the global prevalence of hypertension increasing rapidly and its inadequate treatment, this study aimed to investigate the association between weight-adjusted waist index (WWI) and mortality risks among hypertensive patients.
Methods
Using data from NHANES 2001–2018, we conducted a prospective cohort study of 12,146 hypertensive patients with a median follow-up of 123 months. WWI was calculated as waist circumference (cm) divided by the square root of body weight (kg). Primary outcomes were all-cause and cardiovascular disease (CVD) mortality. Analyses were adjusted for demographic characteristics, metabolic parameters, and lifestyle factors.
Results
During follow-up, 3,470 all-cause deaths and 940 CVD deaths occurred. After full adjustment, each unit increase in WWI was associated with higher risks of all-cause mortality (HR = 1.17, 95% CI: 1.09–1.26) and CVD mortality (HR = 1.22, 95% CI: 1.08–1.38). Compared to the lowest WWI quartile, the highest quartile showed significantly increased risks for all-cause mortality (HR = 1.34, 95% CI: 1.17–1.54) and CVD mortality (HR = 1.69, 95% CI: 1.30–2.20).
Conclusion
Higher WWI was independently associated with increased risks of all-cause and CVD mortality among hypertensive patients, suggesting its potential value as a simple prognostic indicator.
Investigation of the Preparation of Iron Sulfate-loaded Niosomes by an Experimental Novel Method
Authors: Abadi Samira Khalil , Peyvandi Kiana , Shariat Sheida
Published: January 2025

Iron is an essential nutrient in the human diet, its presence is necessary and its deficiency causes many problems in the body, including anemia. Oral iron supplements are often ineffectively absorbed and potentially cause adverse effects in the gastrointestinal tract primarily due to the oxidative toxicity of iron. Iron encapsulation in nanocarrier systems reduces organoleptic problems and protects iron against oxidation caused by external factors, and also improves its bioavailability and intestinal absorption. In this research, niosomes loaded with iron sulfate were prepared using surfactant span 60 and Tween 80 by thin film hydration method. Cholesterol and 1-Dodecanol were used as stabilizers in different ratios. Physical-chemical properties of Niosomes loaded with iron sulfate, such as particle size, dispersity index (PDI), zeta potential, and encapsulation efficiency (EE%), were investigated. The size of the vesicles ranged from 453.1 ± 0.1 to 3276 ± 1 nm, encapsulation efficiency from 75–93.73%, zeta potential from 6.3 ± 0.1 to -9.91 mV, and particle size distribution (PDI) from 0.004 to 0.59 with pH = 6.8 phosphate buffer solution. F1 Formula with a ratio of 1:10 for surfactant: cholesterol, a ratio of 0.75:0.25 for Tween 80: Span 60, 1 mM iron sulfate, 10 cc dichloromethane solvent and a sonication time of 5 minutes, with efficiency 90 ± 1, particle size of 546.8 ± 0.5 nm, zeta potential of 5.5 ± 0.1 and PDI = 0.57 ± 0.01 was introduced as the optimal formula.
Investigating DNA-Interaction and Anticancer Activity of new Cu +2 complex Coordinated with Dipicolinic Acid. Experimental and Computational Studies
Authors: Heidari Ameneh , Dehghanian Effat , Shahraki Somaye , Razmara Zohreh , Majd Mostafa Heidari , Ahmar Hamid , Rakhshanipour Mansoureh , Goswami Srikanta
Published: January 2025

A complex formulized as [Cu(dmpn)2(OH2)][Cu2(DPA)4µ-Cu(dmpn)2] (1), where dmpn is 2,2׳-dimethyl-1,3-diaminepropane and DPA is dipicolinic acid (H2dipic), was synthesized and characterized by X-ray crystallography, conductivity measurement, thermogravimetric (TG) analysis and spectroscopic methods (IR, UV-Vis). The initial in vitro cytotoxic activity of complex (1) shows promising results compared to known anticancer drugs such as cisplatin against HCT116 colon cell lines. In a recent study, the mode of the interaction between DNA and complex (1) was explored using different techniques. The experiments reveal that the mechanism of fluorescence quenching is static and the characteristic of this interaction is exothermic. The apparent binding constant (Kapp = 1.9×103 M− 1) shows that the interaction between the cu(II) complex and DNA is probably non-intercalation. Based on other data, it can be suggested that hydrogen bonding, and van der Waals forces play a major role in this interaction. Molecular docking simulation supports the achieved experimental results. Likewise, complex (1) shows nuclease activity in the presence of H2O2 and can cleavage structure of DNA.
Alteration of archeological and natural analogues for radioactive waste glass under different environmental conditions
Authors: Marcial Jose , Chesnutt Julian , Neeway James J. , Gichon Eschar , Thorpe Clare L. , Zhu Zihua , Golovchak Roman , Cebulski Jozef , Niedzielski Przemyslaw , Szostek Malgorzata , Luksic Steven , Choi Seungrag , Kennedy Ashley , Anguish Rachel , Bohrmann Natalie C. , Denny Adam , Yagel Omri , McCloy John S. , Brown Lesa R. , Hand Russell J. , Hager Jacqueline R. , Plymale Andrew A. , Pearce C. I. , Ben-Yosef Erez , Hellmann Rolland , Sjöblom Rolf , Schweiger Michael J. , Kosson David S. , Kruger Albert A.
Published: January 2025

Hundreds of thousands of cubic meters of legacy radioactive waste from plutonium production stored at U.S. Department of Energy’s Hanford site will be immobilized in glass for disposal. The glass must limit radionuclide release into the environment for thousands of years, which is challenging to assess in laboratory experiments. Long-term alteration behavior of analogue glasses can demonstrate how radioactive waste glass will perform over extended periods. Glasses buried for hundreds of years at climatically variable sites were selected for analysis, based on their fulfillment of criteria to be analogues for waste glass. Glass surficial layers were characterized using tomography, SEM, and XRD. The thickness, chemistry and morphology of alteration layers are discussed in terms of sample chemistry and burial conditions. A key finding is that glass in arid environments, e.g., Timna (Israel), exhibits thinner surface layers (~ 2 µm) compared to glass altered in humid conditions, e.g., Dobkowice (Poland) (up to 59 µm), confirming the significant role of environmental factors in glass durability. However, the correlation between sample age and alteration layer thickness was less strong, challenging the assumption that older samples would have more extensive alteration. Newberry (USA) obsidian (1,350 years old) had alteration layers ~ 15 µm, while Broborg (Sweden) glass (1,500 years old) exhibited layers as thin as 8 µm. Quantification of archeological and natural analogue glass alteration upon exposure to variable environmental factors provides a unique insight into long-term glass alteration. These findings support use of glass for radioactive waste disposal at Hanford and are applicable globally to disposal in near surface facilities.
Insights from Quasi-in situ Cryogenic-Transfer Atom Probe Tomography for Analyzing Hydrogen Diffusion in Metallic Alloys
Authors: Vukkum Venkata Bhuvaneswari , Li Zehao , Shutthanandan Vaithiyalingam , Devaraj Arun
Published: January 2025

Cryogenic-transfer atom probe tomography (APT) has emerged as a powerful technique for nanoscale compositional analysis of hydrogen segregation in materials, offering critical insights into hydrogen embrittlement mechanisms. However, accurate quantification of hydrogen concentration in materials requires careful handling of sample exposure during the cryogenic transfer-APT process. Therefore, we describe the quantitative changes in the surface composition of hydrogen and oxygen in an austenitic FeCrNi model alloy during the ultrahigh vacuum transfer using the state-of-the-art LEAP 6000 XR APT, employing both deep UV laser-assisted and voltage pulsed modes of analysis. These insights were applied to interpret deuterium desorption from the FeCrNi alloy at room temperature after electrochemical deuterium-charging. The findings underscore the importance of managing sample exposure throughout the cryogenic-transfer APT process and introduce a novel quasi-in situ approach to analyzing hydrogen out-diffusion kinetics, which could be extended to a broader range of metallic alloys.