bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Video Prompts as Scaffolding for Noticing Students’ Mathematical Thinking Using 360-Degree Videos: Comparing What is Noticed with How
Authors: Amador Julie M. , Weston Tracy L. , Kosko Karl
Published: February 2025

360-degree video records a spherical view and allows the viewer to manipulate what is viewable. We incorporated 360-degree video into a teaching mathematics course and used prompts that directed prospective teachers’ attention to students’ mathematical thinking. Results from 173 prospective teachers indicated that when given a focused prompt about student thinking, following a general prompt, prospective teachers attended to and interpreted students’ mathematical thinking. Of notable interest, we found that What prospective teachers noticed had a statistically significant and meaningful effect on How they noticed, a major contribution to research on noticing. The findings show promise for combining 360-degree video and a general and student-focused prompt to support prospective teachers in noticing and describing specifics of students’ thinking.
Current Perspectives in Treatment of Obstructive Sleep Apnea with Mandibular Advancement Devices: A Narrative Review
Authors: Gunel Elvin , Kurtulmus Huseyin , Bursa Muhammet Caglar , Peker Yuksel
Published: February 2025

Purpose of Review

This narrative review intends to provide a thorough analysis of the effectiveness, and comparison of the mono-block vs duo-block Mandibular Advancement Devices (MAD) and the potential side effects of these devices in managing Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA).

Recent Findings

MAD therapy is a widely accepted non-invasive treatment option for individuals with OSA, who may not accept positive airway pressure treatment. Both appliances are effective in reducing AHI, however, mono-block MAD is considered to have better short-term outcomes and higher patient tolerance compared to duo-block MAD. While MADs are generally well-tolerated, they can be associated with side effects. Patient education on proper device care and adjustment is crucial for minimizing adverse effects.

Careful patient selection, thorough monitoring, and addressing potential adverse effects are essential for optimizing treatment outcomes. Future research should focus on refining patient selection criteria, and assessing the long-term effectiveness of MADs in diverse populations.
Enhanced Conductivity of Multilayer Copper–Carbon Nanofilms via Plasma Immersion Deposition
Authors: Weng Haotian , Zhang Xiwu , Liu Xuan , Tang Yunhui , Yuan Hewei , Xu Yang , Li Kun , Huang Xiaolu
Published: February 2025

Although room-temperature superconductivity is still difficult to achieve, researching materials with electrical conductivity significantly higher than that of copper will be of great importance in improving energy efficiency, reducing costs, lightening equipment weight, and enhancing overall performance. Herein, this study presents a novel copper–carbon nanofilm composite with enhanced conductivity which has great applications in the electronic devices and electrical equipment. Multilayer copper–carbon nanofilms and interfaces with superior electronic structures are formed based on copper materials using plasma immersion nanocarbon layer deposition technology, effectively enhancing conductivity. Experimental results show that for a five-layer copper–carbon nanofilm composite, the conductivity improves significantly when the thickness of the carbon nanofilm increases. When the carbon nanofilm accounts for 16% of the total thickness, the overall conductivity increases up to 30.20% compared to pure copper. The mechanism of the enhanced conductivity is analyzed including roles of copper atom adsorption sites and electron migration pathways by applying effective medium theory, first-principles calculations and density of states analysis. Under an applied electric field, the high-density electrons in the copper film can migrate into the nanocarbon film, forming highly efficient electron transport channels, which significantly enhance the material’s conductivity. Finally, large-area electrode coating equipment is developed based on this study, providing the novel and robust strategy to enhance the conductivity of copper materials, which enables industrial application of copper–carbon nanocomposite films in the field of high conductivity materials.
Quantum adversarial learning for kernel methods
Authors: Montalbano Giuseppe , Banchi Leonardo
Published: February 2025

We show that hybrid quantum classifiers based on quantum kernel methods and support vector machines are vulnerable against adversarial attacks, namely small engineered perturbations of the input data can deceive the classifier into predicting the wrong result. Nonetheless, we also show that simple defense strategies based on data augmentation with a few crafted perturbations can make the classifier robust against new attacks. Our results find applications in security-critical learning problems and in mitigating the effect of some forms of quantum noise, since the attacker can also be understood as part of the surrounding environment.
A cooperative jamming decision-making method based on multi-agent reinforcement learning
Authors: Cai Bingchen , Li Haoran , Zhang Naimin , Cao Mingyu , Yu Han
Published: February 2025

Electromagnetic jamming is a critical countermeasure in defense interception scenarios. This paper addresses the complex electromagnetic game involving multiple active jammers and radar systems by proposing a multi-agent reinforcement learning-based cooperative jamming decision-making method (MA-CJD). The proposed approach achieves high-quality and efficient target allocation, jamming mode selection, and power control. Mathematical models for radar systems and active jamming are developed to represent a multi-jammer and multi-radar electromagnetic confrontation scenario. The cooperative jamming decision-making process is then modeled as a Markov game, where the QMix multi-agent reinforcement learning algorithm is innovatively applied to handle inter-jammer cooperation. To tackle the challenges of a parameterized action space, the MP-DQN network structure is adopted, forming the basis of the MA-CJD algorithm. Simulation experiments validate the effectiveness of the proposed MA-CJD algorithm. Results show that MA-CJD significantly reduces the time defense units are detected while minimizing jamming resource consumption. Compared with existing algorithms, MA-CJD achieves better solutions, demonstrating its superiority in cooperative jamming scenarios.
Boosting the synthesis of 3-acetamido-5-acetylfuran from N-acetyl-D-glucosamine: understanding the significant role of homogeneous Cl-
Authors: Yang Delong , Dai Jinhang , Du Ziting , Cao Qingya , Chen Gang , Qi Ting , Wang Weilu , Li Fukun
Published: February 2025

Since 3-acetylamino-5-acetylfuran (3A5AF) has been regarded as a promising nitrogen-containing synthon, the conversion of renewable chitin and its monomer N-acetyl-D-glucosamine (NAG) to 3A5AF is of significance. In this paper, we compared the catalytic activity of several Cl-containing compounds and found that LiCl exhibited superior performance. The effects of solvent, catalyst dosage, reaction temperature, and reaction time on the synthesis of 3A5AF were investigated. Under the optimized conditions, about 60% yields of 3A5AF were obtained in N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone (NMP) or dimethylacetamide (DMA) medium. The spent LiCl and DMA could be recycled and reused, without obvious decrease of 3A5AF yield. Moreover, the formed 3A5AF could be purified by a facile procedure. Experiment results and density functional theory (DFT) calculations revealed that homogeneous Cl− was vital for 3A5AF formation. This study provides an example for the effective conversion of chitin biomass to value-added compounds.
Ripening-dependent changes in antioxidant activities and un-targeted phytochemical fingerprinting of mango (Mangifera Indica L.) cultivar Safaid Chonsa
Authors: Aniqa  , Mannan Abdul , Fatima Rizvi Zarrin
Published: February 2025

The ripening-dependent changes in antioxidant activities and phytochemical content of mango (Mangifera indica L.) cultivar Safaid Chonsa at various ripening stages were evaluated. The ripening time period was divided into five stages (RSI-RSV) and the pulp was subjected to proximate analysis, antioxidant potential, and UHPLC/MS-based non-targeted metabolite fingerprinting. Proximate analyses depicted variations in moisture, dry matter, fat, protein, carbohydrate, and energy parameters. Maximum DPPH activity (51%) was observed at stages III, IV, and V while FRSP increased 31% at RS V as compared to stage I. Total antioxidant capacity and total reducing power potential were maximum (295.7 and 345.71 µg AAE/mg extract, respectively at stage V. Total phenolic content increased from 3.57 µg GAE/mg extract to 5.72 µg GAE/mg extract from stage I to RSIII while 19% increase in total flavonoid content was observed at stage V as compared to stage I. UHPLC/MS analysis showed presence of Aconitic acid, methylisocitric acid, 4-O-methyl gallate, beta-glucogallin, xanthenes, sakebiose, Isobergaptene, Fructoselysine 6-phosphate, Citbismine C, and many others at different ripening stages of chonsa mango extracts. The results conclude that during the mango ripening stages, changes in phytochemical composition have positive correlation with antioxidantive potential. These phytochemicals have nutritional and nutraceutical effects on human health therefore ripening stage should be considered for consumption of mango.
Jogendra’s properties in Noakhali: Displacement and the death of hope
Authors: Rahaman Parvez
Published: February 2025

The partition of India caused an unprecedented exodus of Hindus and Muslims to the new nations designated for each group. Amid the tempestuous Great Calcutta Killings and the corresponding riots in Noakhali in 1946, many Bengali Hindus living in Noakhali left for Calcutta, leaving their properties behind in what was soon to be the new state of Pakistan. Though many of them longed for home, I argue that displaced Bengali Hindus’ hopes of returning died in the mid-1950s. The article begins by examining the condition of the village of Lamchar in Noakhali at the time of the riots, partition, and afterwards. I then consider Noakhali within the larger historical context of laws relating to properties settlement in East Pakistan and the introduction of passports from 1948 to 1956. Finally, I examine a rare family archive of letters exchanged between Jogendra Roy, a Hindu landowner who fled Noakhali, and Oli Mian, his Muslim neighbour who remained behind. Twenty-six letters sent from Jogendra to Oli document his desire to return home to Noakhali and his later disappointment when this hope was never realized. This dying hope coincided with the East Pakistan government’s decision to take possession of the lands left by those displaced through the East Bengal State Acquisitions and Tenancy Act of 1950. This article concentrates on the complex relationship between Hindus and Muslims, exploring issues of nostalgia, identity, property, and hope, revealing the slow acceptance among displaced Bengali Hindus of the (im)possibility of return.
A Comparative Study on Self–Other Intertemporal Choice Between Hearing-Impaired and Normal Children
Authors: Ma Yue , Zhu Ting , Yu Yu Zhan
Published: February 2025

Abstract: The current study employed the temporal discounting task to assess differences in intertemporal decision-making between hearing-impaired and normal children across self-oriented and other-oriented choices. The results showed that: (1) no significant difference was observed between hearing-impaired and normal children when making intertemporal choices for themselves; (2) when decisions were made for close family, hearing-impaired children exhibited a significantly higher preference for immediate rewards compared to normal children; (3) conversely, when making choices for strangers, no significant difference was noted in the immediate reward selection rates between hearing-impaired and normal children. Extant research corroborates that normal children display greater patience in intertemporal decision-making for close family compared to hearing-impaired children. The construal level theory and responsibility aversion hypothesis were expand.
The Riparian Zone Controls Headwater Hydrology and Biogeochemistry, Doesn't It? Reassessing Linkages Across European Ecoregions
Authors: Ledesma José L. J. , Musolff Andreas , Sponseller Ryan A. , Lupon Anna , Peñarroya Xavier , Jativa Carolina , Bernal Susana
Published: February 2025

Riparian zones are known to control the hydrology and biogeochemistry of forest headwater catchments. Some evidence suggests that these riparian‐stream connections are shaped by a relatively small volume of soil, or dominant source layer (DSL), through which most water and solutes are routed laterally. However, the hydrological and biogeochemical significance of the DSL has not been broadly evaluated. We compiled data from four forest headwaters, each from different European sites (boreal, temperate, subhumid Mediterranean, semiarid Mediterranean) to test whether DSL dimensions and biogeochemical characteristics vary predictably across ecoregions based on differences in hydroclimate, topography, and soil features. Boreal DSLs were shallow and thin, whereas small‐scale topographic heterogeneity shaped DSL dimensions at the temperate site. In the Mediterranean sites, DSLs were deeper and thicker, but upper riparian layers that seldomly connected to the streams had a large influence on the overall lateral flux. Contrasting hydroclimates and soils led to high dissolved organic carbon concentrations in riparian solutions in both boreal and Mediterranean sites. By contrast, nitrate concentrations were driven by differences in soil saturation, being orders of magnitude higher in dry Mediterranean than in wet temperate and boreal riparian soils. Notably, stream chemistry did not consistently reflect riparian DSL chemistry across flow conditions and ecoregions. We hypothesize that ecoregion‐specific water sources bypassing the riparian zone, as well as ecoregion‐specific in‐stream biogeochemical processes could explain these discrepancies. Overall, conceptualizing the varied roles of the DSL across diverse systems can aid in both scientific assessments and management of land‐water connectivity in river networks.
Estimated Hydraulic Characteristics and the Entrainment of Fish Eggs and Larvae at a Pumped River‐Water Intake
Authors: Wu Zhonghang , Yan Xiao , Feng Jingjie , Zuo Jingcheng , Li Ran , Cheng Xiaolong , Li Kefeng
Published: February 2025

Withdrawal of fish eggs and larvae through a river intake (entrainment) may damage the river's early fish resources. To investigate how the hydraulics (flow velocities, directions, and magnitudes) around and within the water intake structure influence entrainment, this study focused on a typical river‐pump intake. A turbulence model was developed based on the Euler‐Lagrange method and the variable of helicity was introduced to define the zone of the river from which water is withdrawn and organisms are entrained. The process of simulated hydraulics on organism withdrawal was validated by physical experiments using artificial fish eggs under various river flow and intake flow conditions. The simulated results indicated that when the intake‐to‐river flow ratio ranged from 3 to 7‰, the width of the planar entrainment area was approximately 1.2 to 1.4 times the width of the intake structure, and the entrainment quantity of fish eggs and larvae accounted for 0.12% to 0.49% of the incoming flux. The entrainment quantity increased with the intake flow to the river flow ratio. The absolute helicity threshold under different conditions ranged from 0.004 to 0.047 m/s2, which was inversely proportional to the intake flow rate and unaffected by river flow and water depth. An optimized intake structure design with stepped side walls was promoted, which can minimize the impact of river sedimentation and reduce the fish entrainment quantity by an average of 11%. This research provides valuable insights for water intake safety and fish resource protection.
STAT6 mutations compensate for CREBBP mutations and hyperactivate IL4/STAT6/RRAGD/mTOR signaling in follicular lymphoma
Authors: Shao Qiangqiang , Bedi Karan , Malek Isabella A. , Shedden Kerby , Malek Sami N.
Published: February 2025

Activating mutations in STAT6 are common in Follicular Lymphoma (FL) and transformed FL and various other B cell lymphomas. Here, we report RNA-seq based gene expression data on normal human lymph node derived B lymphocytes (NBC; N = 6), and primary human FL WT (N = 11) or mutant (N = 4) for STAT6 before and after ex vivo stimulation with IL4. We found that STAT6 mutants result in broad based augmentation of IL4-induced gene expression. Unexpectedly, in FL with WT STAT6 we measured reduced baseline and IL4-induced gene expression levels when compared with NBC lymphocytes or FL with STAT6 mutations. We tracked the attenuated IL4/JAK/STAT6 response to co-existing CREBBP mutations and experimentally verified that intact CREBBP is required for the induction of many IL4-induced genes. One of the IL4-induced genes here identified is RRAGD, a small G-protein involved in lysosomal mTOR activation. We show that IL4 treatment induced RRAGD expression, that RRAGD is required for mTOR activation in lymphoma cells and that IL4-enhanced BCR signaling induced mTOR activation. The IL4 and BCR-induced mTOR activation was reduced by CREBBP mutants and augmented by mutant STAT6, establishing a link between STAT6 mutations and mTOR regulated pro-growth pathways in lymphoma.
Examining the epigenetic transmission of risk for chronic pain associated with paternal post-traumatic stress disorder: a focus on veteran populations
Authors: Freeman James , Salberg Sabrina , Noel Melanie , Mychasiuk Richelle
Published: February 2025

Chronic pain is a public health problem that significantly reduces quality of life. Although the aetiology is often unknown, recent evidence suggests that susceptibility can be transmitted intergenerationally, from parent to child. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a debilitating psychological disorder, often associated with chronic pain, that has high prevalence rates in military personnel and Veterans. Therefore, we aimed to characterise the epigenetic mechanisms by which paternal trauma, such as PTSD, is transmitted across generations to confer risk in the next generation, specifically focusing on Veterans where possible. Numerous overlapping neurological pathways are implicated in both PTSD and chronic pain; many of which are susceptible to epigenetic modification, such as DNA methylation, histone modifications, and RNA regulation. Hence, epigenetic changes related to pain perception, inflammation, and neurotransmission may influence an individual’s predisposition to chronic pain conditions. We also examine the effects of PTSD on parenting behaviours and discuss how these variations could impact the development of chronic pain in children. We highlight the need for further research regarding the interactions between paternal trauma and epigenetic processes to ultimately generate effective prevention and therapeutic strategies for Veterans who have been affected by PTSD and chronic pain.
Identification of mitochondrial carrier homolog 2 as an important therapeutic target of castration-resistant prostate cancer
Authors: Liu Yankui , Chen Anjie , Wu Yufan , Ni Jiang , Wang Rong , Mao Yong , Sun Ning , Mi Yuanyuan
Published: February 2025

We here investigate the expression of the mitochondrial carrier homolog 2 (MTCH2) and its potential function in castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC). Bioinformatic analyses reveal that MTCH2 overexpression is associated with critical clinical parameters of prostate cancer. Single-cell sequencing data indicate elevated MTCH2 expression in the prostate cancer epithelium. MTCH2 is also upregulated in locally treated CRPC tissue and various primary human CRPC cells. Using genetic silencing via shRNA and knockout (KO) through the CRISPR-sgRNA approach, we showed that the depletion of MTCH2 impaired mitochondrial function, resulting in a reduced oxygen consumption rate, diminished complex I activity, and decreased ATP levels, mitochondrial depolarization, and increased reactive oxygen species production in primary CRPC cells. The silencing or KO of MTCH2 significantly inhibited cell viability, proliferation, and migration, together with a marked increase in apoptosis in the primary CRPC cells. In contrast, ectopic expression of MTCH2 provided CRPC cells with pro-tumorigenic properties, enhancing ATP production and promoting cell proliferation and migration. MTCH2 silencing also markedly inhibited the growth of subcutaneous xenografts of the primary CRPC cells in nude mice. The MTCH2-silenced xenografts exhibited increased apoptosis, elevated lipid peroxidation, and decreased ATP levels. These results provide new insights into the role of MTCH2 in supporting mitochondrial function and CRPC progression.
The influence of the gingival phenotype on implant survival rate and clinical parameters: a systematic review
Authors: da Silva Diego Marques , Castro Filipe , Martins Bruno , Fraile Javier Flores , Fernandes Juliana Campos Hasse , Fernandes Gustavo Vicentis Oliveira
Published: February 2025

Objective

The goal of this systematic review was to verify whether the gingival phenotype (thick or thin) could impact the dental implant survival rate by affecting the marginal bone.

Methods

The search was carried out on PubMed/MedLine, PubMed Central, and B-On databases. The research question was: “Does gingival phenotype positively or negatively influence marginal bone loss around dental implants?” The inclusion criteria were: any clinical trial/study, comparative study, prospective or retrospective articles, systematic review that addressed at least a 1-year follow-up with an assessment of the marginal bone loss (MBL) around dental implants, articles that reported the gingival phenotype (thin or thick) and were published in the last 13 years. The exclusion criteria were narrative or other reviews, letters to the editor, and commentaries. Data extraction included the author’s name, year of publication, type of study, sample size, number of implants, method used, and outcomes presented. The extracted data was summarized and presented in the results section. Critical Appraisal tool in JBI Systematic Reviews was used to determine the possibility of bias.

Results

A total of 62 articles were found, but eight articles were relevant to compose this study. After deep evaluation, it was possible to observe the implant success rate for both gingival phenotypes, thin and thick, was greater than 91% within a follow-up of up to 5 years. Therefore, it is unclear whether the thickness of the gingival tissue surrounding the implant can directly influence the marginal bone level. The gingival phenotype may be indirectly involved in the survival rate of dental implants, as it can be a risk factor for peri-implantitis, leading to marginal bone loss beyond what is expected.

Discussion

The thin gingival phenotype is one of the main risk factors for additional bone loss. It is crucial to know how to preserve the healthy condition.

Conclusion

Within the results found, the gingival phenotype is indirectly related to implant survival rate and clinical parameters, which were respectively high and non-conclusive. Therefore, a higher risk of peri-implantitis is suggested when a thin phenotype is present.
Deep empirical neural network for optical phase retrieval over a scattering medium
Authors: Tu Huaisheng , Liu Haotian , Pan Tuqiang , Xie Wuping , Ma Zihao , Zhang Fan , Xu Pengbai , Wu Leiming , Xu Ou , Xu Yi , Qin Yuwen
Published: February 2025

Supervised learning, a popular tool in modern science and technology, thrives on huge amounts of labeled data. Physics-enhanced deep neural networks offer an effective solution to alleviate the data burden by incorporating an analytical model that interprets the underlying physical processes. However, it completely fails in tackling systems without analytical solution, where wave scattering systems with multiple input multiple output are typical examples. Herein, we propose a concept of deep empirical neural network (DENN) that is a hybridization of a deep neural network and an empirical model, which enables seeing through an opaque scattering medium in an untrained manner. The DENN does not rely on labeled data, all while delivering as high as 58% improvement in fidelity compared with the supervised learning using 30000 data pairs for achieving the same goal of optical phase retrieval. The DENN might shed new light on the applications of deep learning in physics, information science, biology, chemistry and beyond.
Identifying neurobiological heterogeneity in clinical high-risk psychosis: a data-driven biotyping approach using resting-state functional connectivity
Authors: Tang Xiaochen , Wei Yanyan , Pang Jiaoyan , Xu Lihua , Cui Huiru , Liu Xu , Hu Yegang , Ju Mingliang , Tang Yingying , Long Bin , Liu Wei , Su Min , Zhang Tianhong , Wang Jijun
Published: February 2025

To explore the neurobiological heterogeneity within the Clinical High-Risk (CHR) for psychosis population, this study aimed to identify and characterize distinct neurobiological biotypes within CHR using features from resting-state functional networks. A total of 239 participants from the Shanghai At Risk for Psychosis (SHARP) program were enrolled, consisting of 151 CHR individuals and 88 matched healthy controls (HCs). Functional connectivity (FC) features that were correlated with symptom severity were subjected to the single-cell interpretation through multikernel learning (SIMLR) algorithm in order to identify latent homogeneous subgroups. The cognitive function, clinical symptoms, FC patterns, and correlation with neurotransmitter systems of biotype profiles were compared. Three distinct CHR biotypes were identified based on 646 significant ROI-ROI connectivity features, comprising 29.8%, 19.2%, and 51.0% of the CHR sample, respectively. Despite the absence of overall FC differences between CHR and HC groups, each CHR biotype demonstrated unique FC abnormalities. Biotype 1 displayed augmented somatomotor connection, Biotype 2 shown compromised working memory with heightened subcortical and network-specific connectivity, and Biotype 3, characterized by significant negative symptoms, revealed extensive connectivity reductions along with increased limbic-subcortical connectivity. The neurotransmitter correlates differed across biotypes. Biotype 2 revealed an inverse trend to Biotype 3, as increased neurotransmitter concentrations improved functional connectivity in Biotype 2 but reduced it in Biotype 3. The identification of CHR biotypes provides compelling evidence for the early manifestation of heterogeneity within the psychosis spectrum, suggesting that distinct pathophysiological mechanisms may underlie these subgroups.
Limited impact of Salmonella stress and persisters on antibiotic clearance
Authors: Fanous Joseph , Claudi Beatrice , Tripathi Vishwachi , Li Jiagui , Goormaghtigh Frédéric , Bumann Dirk
Published: February 2025

Antimicrobial compounds are essential for controlling bacterial infections. Stress-induced bacterial tolerance and persisters can undermine antimicrobial activities under laboratory conditions, but their quantitative effects under physiological conditions remain unclear1,2. Here we determined constraints on clearance of Salmonella by antimicrobials in infected mice and tissue-mimicking chemostats. The antibiotics enrofloxacin and ceftriaxone exhibited poor anti-Salmonella activity under both conditions, primarily owing to severe nutrient starvation, which restricted Salmonella replication3–5. Other infection-associated conditions, such as acidic pH, glucose, oxidative stress, nitrosative stress, antimicrobial peptides, osmolarity, oxygen limitation, carbon dioxide and carbonate, as well as drug efflux, toxin–antitoxin modules and cell size had limited effects. A subset of resilient Salmonella appeared as a key obstacle for clearance by enrofloxacin, based on the biphasic decline of Salmonella colony-forming units. However, these data were misleading, because colony formation was confounded by extensive post-exposure killing. More accurate single-cell, real-time assays showed uniformly slow damage, indicating high resilience across the entire Salmonella population. The resulting extensive survival of bulk bacteria minimized the effect of hyper-resilient persisters. Thus, starvation-induced general resilience of Salmonella was the main cause of poor antibiotic clearance. These findings highlight the importance of quantifying antibiotic activity with real-time, single-cell assays under physiological conditions.
Daratumumab plus bortezomib, lenalidomide and dexamethasone for transplant-ineligible or transplant-deferred newly diagnosed multiple myeloma: the randomized phase 3 CEPHEUS trial
Authors: Usmani Saad Z. , Facon Thierry , Hungria Vania , Bahlis Nizar J. , Venner Christopher P. , Braunstein Marc , Pour Ludek , Martí Josep M. , Basu Supratik , Cohen Yael C. , Matsumoto Morio , Suzuki Kenshi , Hulin Cyrille , Grosicki Sebastian , Legiec Wojciech , Beksac Meral , Maiolino Angelo , Takamatsu Hiroyuki , Perrot Aurore , Turgut Mehmet , Ahmadi Tahamtan , Liu Weiping , Wang Jianping , Chastain Katherine , Vermeulen Jessica , Krevvata Maria , Lopez-Masi Lorena , Carey Jodi , Rowe Melissa , Carson Robin , Zweegman Sonja
Published: February 2025

Frontline daratumumab-based triplet and quadruplet standard-of-care regimens have demonstrated improved survival outcomes in newly diagnosed multiple myeloma (NDMM). For patients with transplant-ineligible NDMM, triplet therapy with either daratumumab plus lenalidomide and dexamethasone (D-Rd) or bortezomib, lenalidomide and dexamethasone (VRd) is the current standard of care. This phase 3 trial evaluated subcutaneous daratumumab plus VRd (D-VRd) in patients with transplant-ineligible NDMM or for whom transplant was not planned as the initial therapy (transplant deferred). Some 395 patients with transplant-ineligible or transplant-deferred NDMM were randomly assigned to eight cycles of D-VRd or VRd followed by D-Rd or Rd until progression. The primary endpoint was overall minimal residual disease (MRD)-negativity rate at 10−
5 by next-generation sequencing. Major secondary endpoints included complete response (CR) or better (≥CR) rate, progression-free survival and sustained MRD-negativity rate at 10−
5. At a median follow-up of 58.7 months, the MRD-negativity rate was 60.9% with D-VRd versus 39.4% with VRd (odds ratio, 2.37; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.58–3.55; P < 0.0001). Rates of ≥CR (81.2% versus 61.6%; P < 0.0001) and sustained MRD negativity (≥12 months; 48.7% versus 26.3%; P < 0.0001) were significantly higher with D-VRd versus VRd. Risk of progression or death was 43% lower for D-VRd versus VRd (hazard ratio, 0.57; 95% CI, 0.41–0.79; P = 0.0005). Adverse events were consistent with the known safety profiles for daratumumab and VRd. Combining daratumumab with VRd produced deeper and more durable MRD responses versus VRd alone. The present study supports D-VRd quadruplet therapy as a new standard of care for transplant-ineligible or transplant-deferred NDMM. ClinicalTrials.gov registration: NCT03652064.
Efficacy of bacteriophages with Aloe vera extract in formulated cosmetics to combat multidrug-resistant bacteria in skin diseases
Authors: Maan Sodaf A. , Faiesal Abeer A. , Gamar Gamar M. , El Dougdoug Noha K.
Published: February 2025

Phage therapy offers a promising alternative to antibiotic treatment for combating illnesses caused by multidrug-resistant bacteria. In this study, pathogenic bacteria Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa were isolated from pus and skin infected fluidsusing selective media. These bacterial isolates were biochemically identified as S. aureus and P. aeruginosa with probabilities of 98% and 99%, respectively, through VITEK2 system, and were confirmed as multidrug-resistant based on minimum inhibitory concentration test using colorimetric reagent cards. Lytic phages specific to these isolates were isolated, identified through plaque assays, transmission electron microscopy and classified morphologically according to the new International Committee on Taxonomy of Viruses classification as members of the Straboviridae, Drexlerviridae, and Autographiviridae families. A cosmetic gel formulation combining Aloe vera extract and the phage cocktail was prepared and tested. This gel significantly enhanced phage longevity and reduced bacterial growth by 95.5% compared to the reductions of 90.5% with Aloe Vera extract alone and 45.7% with the basic cosmetic gel. The phage remained effective for 4 to over 12 weeks after being preserved in the cosmetic formula, maintaining populations ranging from 5 × 103 to 25 × 104 PFU/mL in vitro. These findings highlight the potential of phage-based formulations, such as Vena Skin Gel, as innovative biotherapeutic tools for managing skin infections.
Impact of host physiology and external stressors on the bacterial community of Schmidtea mediterranea
Authors: Bijnens Karolien , Thijs Sofie , Alfano Rossella , McAmmond Breanne , Van Hamme Jonathan , Artois Tom , Plusquin Michelle , Vangronsveld Jaco , Smeets Karen
Published: February 2025

To fully comprehend host-microorganism interactions, it is crucial to understand the composition and diversity of the microbiome, as well as the factors that shape these characteristics. We investigated microbiome variation using the freshwater planarian Schmidtea mediterranea, an invertebrate model in regeneration biology and (eco-)toxicology, by exposing the organisms to various controlled conditions. The microbiome composition exhibited high variability, with most of the bacteria belonging to the Betaproteobacteria. Among the diverse microbial communities, a few genera, such as Curvibacter, were consistently present, but exhibited significant alterations in response to changing conditions. The relative abundance of Curvibacter fluctuated during the regeneration process, initially increasing before returning to a composition similar to the beginning situation. After applying external stress, the relative abundance of Curvibacter and other genera decreased. Variation over time, between different origin laboratories and between individuals, showed that additional, yet to-be-identified, factors of variation are present. Taking all results together, our study provides a solid basis for future research focusing on bacterial functionality in planarians and other invertebrates.
An unconstrained four pool model analysis of proton relaxation and magnetization transfer in ex vivo white matter
Authors: Wallstein Niklas , Pampel André , Müller Roland , Jäger Carsten , Morawski Markus , Möller Harald E.
Published: February 2025

Understanding proton relaxation in the brain’s white matter remains an active field of magnetic resonance imaging research. Models of varying complexity have been proposed to link measurements to tissue composition/microstructure, in particular myelination. Although the presence of multiple aqueous and nonaqueous proton pools is well established experimentally, so-called “quantitative MRI” is usually based on simpler models due to the large number of model parameters. In this work, a comprehensive set of parameters characterizing a four-pool model is obtained. A piece of fixed porcine spinal-cord WM was investigated at 3 T and temperatures between 21 and 35 °C. Measurements included a wide range of preparations of the spin system in combination with long echo trains to achieve sensitivity to all model parameters. The results allow the extraction of all intrinsic relaxation and exchange rates as well as assigning them to specific dynamic processes involving tissue water. A critical assessment indicates that simpler models often lack specificity to myelin.
Cortical and subcortical activities during food rewards versus social interaction in rats
Authors: Rocha-Almeida Florbela , Conde-Moro Ana R. , Fernández-Ruiz Antonio , Delgado-García José M. , Gruart Agnès
Published: February 2025

Balancing food foraging with social interaction is crucial for survival and reproduction in many species of mammals. We wanted to investigate the reward preferences in adult male rats by allowing them to lever-press for both food and social rewards (interaction with another rat), while their performance and electrophysiological activities were recorded. Local field potentials (LFPs) were analyzed across five neuroanatomical regions involved in reward processing, decision-making, and social behavior. Despite ad libitum food availability, rats consistently prioritized food. LFP analysis revealed a decrease in nucleus accumbens (NAc) spectral power following social interaction, accompanied by specific alterations in delta and theta bands within the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC). The spectral power of LFPs delta and/or theta bands were different for the five selected regions following food reward vs. social interactions. Cross-frequency coupling analysis provided further insights, demonstrating dynamic changes in theta-to-gamma coupling during both food and social rewards, with distinct roles for slow- and fast-gamma frequencies. These findings shed light on the intricate neural processes underlying reward preferences and/or decision-making choices, highlighting the NAc’s potential role in social reward processing, and the mPFC’s involvement in modulating theta–gamma rhythms during reward-related decision-making.
Analysis of quality of life and periodontal health with an eight-unit maxillary fixed retainer through a prospective clinical trial
Authors: Abbas Mohamed H. , Abdalla Essam M. , El Harouni Nadia M. , Marzouk Eiman S.
Published: February 2025

Retention is crucial in orthodontics, aiming to preserve treatment outcomes and enhance patient satisfaction with permanent fixed retainers. However, a removable retainer may be needed with fixed retainers to prevent unwanted changes. An eight-unit extended fixed retainer is proposed to eliminate the need for a removable retainer, addressing the undesired changes associated with six-unit fixed retainers. The impact of extended retainers on periodontium and quality of life remains unexplored. This study evaluates the periodontal response and patient-reported quality of life with an eight-unit maxillary fixed retainer. A single-arm prospective clinical trial with only twenty-eight test group patients (6 males, 22 females) who finished active orthodontic treatment were recruited. The mean age was (19.8 ± 4.5 years). This research was approved by the institutional review board of the Faculty of Dentistry, Alexandria University (IORG:0008839, No-0479-8/2022). The registration date of this study was (5/06/2023). An eight-unit maxillary fixed retainer was bonded to the palatal surface of the maxillary incisors, canines, and first or second premolars directly after debonding the brackets. The periodontal assessment and quality of life were carried out through clinical examination and valid questionnaires and the patients were followed up for 12 months. The periodontal response improved significantly at 1-year follow-up. The Probing depth, Gingival index, Plaque index, Bleeding index, and mobility index were significantly lower in these patients. Quality of life was assessed by the OHIP-14. The mean score decreased by -1.86 (SD = 4.19), and the acceptance of the orthodontic appliance scale score increased by 0.68 (SD = 0.86), which was significant with a p-value < 0.001. For 12 months of follow-up, an eight-unit maxillary retainer did not adversely affect the periodontal ligaments. meets patients’ expectations and maintains a high quality of life.
Advanced bio-hybrid drone for superior odor-source localization: high-precision and extended-range detection capabilities
Authors: Fukui Chihiro , Uchida Tomoya , Koizumi Sakito , Murayama Yuta , Liu Hao , Nakata Toshiyuki , Terutsuki Daigo
Published: February 2025

Bio-hybrid drones, which combine biological odor sensors with small drones, introduce an innovative navigation method that compensates for traditional image-based navigation, enhancing the capabilities of aerial robots. Inspired by the odor-source search behavior observed in biological organisms, we identified two key elements for improving odor source direction estimation accuracy for bio-hybrid drones: (1) increasing the anisotropy of the odor sensor using a sensor enclosure, and (2) implementing a stepped rotation algorithm that strategically incorporates pauses during scanning. This integration resulted in a doubling of both search accuracy and range, achieving a search distance of up to 5 m, significantly exceeding the performance of a previous algorithm that sequentially combined rotational and linear motions. Although these elements are commonly observed in various arthropods, they are underapplied in robotics applications. This study provides a novel perspective to robotic olfactory navigation techniques by leveraging these biological behaviors to enhance robotic functionality.
Spatiotemporal 3D cell impedance monitoring for metal nanoparticle risk assessment by plug-in vertical electrode array
Authors: Shi Yimin , Liu Hui , Zhao Mingda , Sun Sheng , Qin Meiyan , Zhao Yang , Li Mingxiao , Zhang Lina , Zhang Lingqian , Huang Chengjun
Published: February 2025

We designed a 3D cell impedance sensor for nanotoxicology: it integrates a PVEA chip with a multi-channel system for dynamic monitoring of metal nanoparticle toxicity, enhancing accuracy in toxicity detection.
Cancer-specific dual-factor cascade recognition fluorescent probe for imaging and tumor diagnosis
Authors: Wang Ziqian , Li Yitong , Zhang Hong , Song Yang , Xue Zuguang , Yin Fangkui , Li Lin , Jiang Maojun , Hu Zhiyuan , Wang Zheming , Zhang Yanxin , Wang Zihan , Wang Siyao , Song Ting , Zhang Zhichao
Published: February 2025

A Bcl-2/GSH dual-factor recognition activatable probe for visual diagnosis and imaging-guided surgery of cancer with a superior tumor-to-normal tissue ratio.
Highly conductive and homogeneous NiOx nanoparticles for stable and efficient flexible perovskite solar cells
Authors: Jin Junjun , Shang Jitao , Zhu Zhenkun , Guo Tonghui , Wang Yanghou , Chen Lijun , Ming Yidong , Li Jinhua , Tang Guanqi , Tai Qidong
Published: February 2025

We present a facile strategy to improve the conductivity and homogeneousness of NiOx NPs. The flexible perovskite solar cells prepared with NiOx achieved impressive efficiencies of 22.68% under AM 1.5G and 35.59% under 1000 lux, respectively.
Deciphering the role of (metal–)support on the reductive amination of levulinates
Authors: Saini Kanika , Sharma Neeraj , Gautam Rahul , Supan  , Len Christophe , Saravanamurugan Shunmugavel
Published: February 2025

This review provides an overview of the decisive role of metal–support interaction in the reductive amination of levulinates to N-containing compounds, which helps design catalytic materials for the reductive amination of carbonyl compounds.
Developing large language models for quantum chemistry simulation input generation
Authors: Jacobs Pieter Floris , Pollice Robert
Published: February 2025

A general framework for developing large language models capable of creating input files for quantum chemistry simulation packages based on textual descriptions, applied to the ORCA software package.
Mechanism of the release and transformation of polyphenols during germination and fermentation in millets: profile and metabolomics based analysis
Authors: Wang Yu , Zhang Yu , Li Sen , Huang Kai , Cao Hongwei , Qiu Wenjie , Guan Xiao
Published: February 2025

Germination and fermentation are effective ways to improve polyphenol contents in whole grains.
Green chemistry approaches in materials science: physico-mechanical properties and sustainable applications of grass fiber-reinforced composites
Authors: Pattnaik Shruti S. , Behera Diptiranjan , Nanda Debasis , Das Nigamananda , Behera Ajaya K.
Published: February 2025

Overview of grass fibers for sustainable biocomposite development, characterizations, application and future prospects in green chemistry.
Challenges in measuring nanoparticles and microparticles by single particle ICP-QMS and ICP-TOFMS: size-dependent transport efficiency and limited linear dynamic range
Authors: Lomax-Vogt Madeleine , Carter Lucas M. , Wielinski Jonas , Kutuzov Stanislav , Lowry Gregory V. , Sullivan Ryan , Gabrielli Paolo , Olesik John W.
Published: February 2025

The transport efficiency of microparticles larger than ∼700 nm decreases with size. While SiO2 particles as large as 5 µm are completely vaporized in the ICP, the ion detection system limited linear dynamic range will often require signal reduction.
TapeTech microfluidic connectors: adhesive tape-enabled solution for organ-on-a-chip system integration
Authors: Ching Terry , van Steen Abraham C. I. , Gray-Scherr Delaney , Teo Jessica L. , Vasan Anish , Jeon Joshua , Shah Jessica , Patel Aayush , Stoddard Amy E. , Bays Jennifer L. , Eyckmans Jeroen , Chen Christopher S.
Published: February 2025

TapeTech is a flexible, adhesive-based microfluidic connectivity solution that streamlines fluidic integration with organ-on-a-chip devices by providing leak-proof sealing, mitigating pressure surges, and enabling rapid, cost-effective customization.
3D hierarchical rare-earth metal composite nanofiber membranes for highly durable and efficient photodegradations of organic pollutants
Authors: Rianjanu Aditya , Muhtar Sephia Amanda , Austria Hannah Faye M. , Taher Tarmizi , Gultom Noto Susanto , Saputera Wibawa Hendra , Wasisto Hutomo Suryo , Abdi Fatwa F. , Hung Wei-Song , Widakdo Januar
Published: February 2025

This study presents 3D hierarchical rare-earth composite nanofiber membranes for enhanced photocatalytic degradation of organic pollutants, highlighting their structural stability and reusability for sustainable water treatment.
The synthesis and investigation of novel 3-benzoylbenzofurans and pyrazole derivatives for anti-HIV activity.
Authors: Khuzwayo Sinothile Sementha , Selepe Mamoalosi , Meyer Debra , Gama Ntombenhle H.
Published: February 2025

The emergence of drug-resistant viruses continues to be an obstacle to effectively controlling the HIV/AIDS pandemic. The development of novel drugs with high potency and the ability to fully eradicate...
Reweighting configurations generated by transferable, machine learned models for protein sidechain backmapping
Authors: Monroe Jacob I.
Published: February 2025

Backmappings of protein sidechains exposing exact probability densities of generated configurations enable reweighting with protein force fields. Though trained models produce low-energy configurations, reweighting remains unexpectedly challenging.
Deep co-deposition of polydopamine in PVDF hydrogel to enhance photothermal evaporation efficiency
Authors: Ma Yu , Yang Lan , Wu Shangdi , Xu Liran , Huang Hua
Published: February 2025

This study introduces a deep co-deposition method to enhance polydopamine (PDA) photo-thermal efficiency by incorporating PDA within membrane internals, increasing loading and improving absorbance, thereby elevating evaporation rate and efficiency.
Nonspecific metal-coordination-driven control over higher-order DNA self-assembly
Authors: Wei Mengzhou , Zhu Zhiyuan , Wan Lingjun , Li Yulin
Published: February 2025

A simple, versatile metal-coordination-driven regulation strategy in DNA nanotechnology is reported. Switchable self-assembly of higher-order DNA nanostructures is achieved by utilizing nonspecific Ag+–DNA coordination.
Terahertz biomedical imaging using a terahertz emitter based on InAs nanowires
Authors: Park Dong Woo , Ji Young Bin , Choi Ilgyu , Hwang Jeongwoo , Shin Jae Cheol , Cho Jin Chul , Lee Eui Su , Oh Seung Jae , Noh Siyun , Shin Jaehyeok , Kim Jin Soo
Published: February 2025

Terahertz imaging in biomedical diagnostics using a low-cost terahertz emitter based on InAs nanowires on a Si(111) substrate.