bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Possible Prognostic Role of BMI Before Chemotherapy in the Outcomes of Women with Ovarian Cancer
Authors: Paschou Stavroula A. , Andrikopoulou Angeliki , Mili Nikoletta , Svarna Anna , Kaparelou Maria , Stefanaki Katerina , Dedes Nikolaos , Liatsou Efstathia , Thomakos Nikolaos , Haidopoulos Dimitrios , Psaltopoulou Theodora , Kastritis Efstathios , Zagouri Flora , Dimopoulos Meletios-Athanasios , Liontos Michalis
Published: February 2025

Background/Objectives: Survival rates for ovarian cancer remain distressingly low. Despite established prognostic factors, the need to identify modifiable parameters to influence survival outcomes is imperative. Overweight and obesity, both prevalent conditions, have been implicated in cancer development and potentially poor survival. However, conflicting data on the associations of body mass index (BMI) with progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) in ovarian cancer patients necessitate further exploration. This study aims to investigate the prognostic role of BMI before chemotherapy in women with ovarian cancer, specifically focusing on PFS and OS. Methods: A retrospective analysis encompassed 1,136 patients diagnosed with ovarian carcinomas between 1995 and 2018. Patients were categorized based on BMI at presentation, and a comprehensive examination of clinicopathological, treatment, and survival data was conducted. Results: In the patient population, normal weight patients (BMI < 25 kg/m2) demonstrated a median PFS of 12.8 months (95% CI 11.7–13.9 months), while overweight/obese patients (BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2) exhibited a significantly longer median PFS of 14.9 months (95% CI 13.6–16.4 months, P = 0.006). No statistically significant difference was noted in median OS between the two BMI groups. Subgroup analysis for different histological subtypes revealed a statistically significant benefit for overweight and obese patients with serous and endometrioid histology (mPFS 12.9 months, 95% CI 11.7–14.0 vs. 15.6 months, 95% CI 13.9–17.3, P = 0.012 and 14.6 months 95% CI 13.7–15.5 vs. 25.6 months, 95% CI 9.5–41.7, P = 0.031, respectively). Additionally, BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2 demonstrated a significant advantage in advanced-stage disease. Conclusions: The study underscores the intricate association between BMI and ovarian cancer prognosis. While a statistically significant difference in progression-free survival was noted between normal weight and overweight/obese patients, with the latter group experiencing a survival benefit, no such difference was observed in overall survival.
Impact of Olive Oil Components on the Expression of Genes Related to Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Munteanu Camelia , Kotova Polina , Schwartz Betty
Published: February 2025

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a multifactorial metabolic disorder characterized by insulin resistance and beta cell dysfunction, resulting in hyperglycemia. Olive oil, a cornerstone of the Mediterranean diet, has attracted considerable attention due to its potential health benefits, including reducing the risk of developing T2DM. This literature review aims to critically examine and synthesize existing research regarding the impact of olive oil on the expression of genes relevant to T2DM. This paper also seeks to provide an immunological and genetic perspective on the signaling pathways of the main components of extra virgin olive oil. Key bioactive components of olive oil, such as oleic acid and phenolic compounds, were identified as modulators of insulin signaling. These compounds enhanced the insulin signaling pathway, improved lipid metabolism, and reduced oxidative stress by decreasing reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. Additionally, they were shown to alleviate inflammation by inhibiting the NF-κB pathway and downregulating pro-inflammatory cytokines and enzymes. Furthermore, these bioactive compounds were observed to mitigate endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress by downregulating stress markers, thereby protecting beta cells from apoptosis and preserving their function. In summary, olive oil, particularly its bioactive constituents, has been demonstrated to enhance insulin sensitivity, protect beta cell function, and reduce inflammation and oxidative stress by modulating key genes involved in these processes. These findings underscore olive oil’s therapeutic potential in managing T2DM. However, further research, including well-designed human clinical trials, is required to fully elucidate the role of olive oil in personalized nutrition strategies for the prevention and treatment of T2DM.
Confronting the Broken Phase of the N2HDM with Higgs Data
Authors: Binjonaid Maien
Published: February 2025

The broken phase of the next-to-two-Higgs-doublet model (N2HDM) constitutes an archetype of extended Higgs sectors. In the presence of a softly broken Z2 symmetry throughout the scalar and Yukawa sectors, as the additional gauge singlet field does not interact with fermions, the model admits four variants of Yukawa interactions between the doublets and Standard Model fermions. We confront each type with experimental Higgs data, especially those from CMS and ATLAS detectors at the LHC. Interfacing the models with the state-of-the-art package HiggsTools, we perform a statistical χ2 analysis to determine the best-fit points and exclusion limits at the 95% and 68% C.L.’s and identify SM-like Higgs measurements that affect each type the most. We further analyze the exclusion bounds on the additional Higgs bosons at the 95% C.L., paying special attention to searches for hypothetical non-SM Higgs resonances decaying into a pair of bosons or fermions. We show regions where the additional Higgs bosons do not satisfy the narrow-width approximation utilized in most experimental searches.
The Role and Scope of Practice of Veterinary Social Workers in Animal Shelters
Authors: Vincent Aviva , Rauktis Mary Elizabeth , Maxwell Laurie , Knudsen Elizabeth
Published: February 2025

Animal shelters play a pivotal role in protecting pets in crisis and bringing families together. This paper adds to the work of Hoy-Gerlach and colleagues which outlined a three-tier framework for developing and training veterinary social workers (VSWs) to serve in animal shelters. Our research questions sought to explore the VSWs’ self-identified role (RQ1), and how VSWs self-identify their scope of practice (RQ2). Through these exploratory questions, our research aimed to advance knowledge about the state of VSWs in the animal-shelter setting. Methods: Using a purposive sampling strategy, an anonymous community practice survey (CPS) was emailed to VSWs working in animal shelters. Inclusion criteria included being over the age of 18, being currently employed in an animal shelter, and cognitive fluency in English. The survey yielded 25 responses with 14 included in the data analysis. Findings: The VSWs identified their role as supporting multiple groups, including clients and their practice community (i.e., colleagues). While most of their time was devoted to individuals from the community, they also supported the mental wellbeing of their team. Their work ranged from case management and psychoeducation to crisis intervention and suicide risk assessment. As there are no standards of practice for VSWs, each respondent used unique language to explain their role and scope of practice. Conclusions: The CPS was helpful in illuminating developing trends within the field, though a larger sample size is needed to gain a more nuanced understanding of self-identified needs of VSWs practicing in animal shelters and other related spaces.
The Anti-Inflammatory Potential of Tricyclic Antidepressants (TCAs): A Novel Therapeutic Approach to Atherosclerosis Pathophysiology
Authors: Eslami Majid , Monemi Marzieh , Nazari Mohammad Ali , Azami Mohammad Hossein , Shariat Rad Parand , Oksenych Valentyn , Naderian Ramtin
Published: February 2025

Atherosclerosis, a chronic inflammatory disease, is driven by complex molecular mechanisms involving inflammatory cytokines and immune pathways. According to recent research, tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs), which are typically prescribed to treat depressive disorders, have strong anti-inflammatory effects. TCAs, including imipramine and amitriptyline, alter inflammatory signaling cascades, which include lowering the levels pro-inflammatory cytokines like TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 and inhibiting NF-κB activation. By inhibiting the NLRP3 inflammasome and suppressing pathways including JAK/STAT, MAPK, and PI3K, these effects are produced, improving endothelial function and reducing oxidative stress. The intricacy of TCAs’ anti-inflammatory actions has demonstrated by the existence of contradictory findings about how they alter IL-6 levels. The dependence of the heterogeneity of the reaction on the use of particular TCAs and experimental settings is shown by the fact that some studies show reduced IL-6 production, while others indicate increases or no changes. This review explores the multifaceted mechanisms through which TCAs modulate inflammatory pathways. TCAs inhibit NF-κB activation, reduce oxidative stress, and suppress the production of key inflammatory mediators, including IL-6 and TNF-α. They also regulate Toll-like receptor (TLR) signaling and NOD-, LRR-, and NLR family pyrin domain-containing protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome activation, reducing the release of IL-1β and IL-18, critical drivers of endothelial dysfunction and plaque instability. Given their capacity to target critical inflammatory molecules and pathways, TCAs provide great potential in the therapy of atherosclerosis, particularly for individuals with associated depression and cardiovascular risk factors. Nevertheless, further research is essential to clarify the precise molecular mechanisms, resolve inconsistencies in current findings, and establish the clinical applicability of TCAs as anti-inflammatory agents in atherosclerosis management.
BuZhong YiQi Formula Alleviates Postprandial Hyperglycemia in T2DM Rats by Inhibiting α-Amylase and α-Glucosidase In Vitro and In Vivo
Authors: Zeng Xin-Xin , Wang Liang , Wang Ming-Yu , Hu Zhen-Ran , Li Xiang-Ke , Fei Guo-Jun , Ling Ling , Fan Yu-Ting , Yang Ze-Min
Published: February 2025

Background/Objectives: BuZhong YiQi Formula (BZYQF) can alleviate type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). However, its efficacy in managing postprandial hyperglycemia in T2DM needs to be further confirmed, and its underlying mechanism and pharmacodynamic material basis have not been sufficiently investigated. Methods: A T2DM rat model was induced to measure postprandial glycemic responses following glucose and starch ingestion. In vitro assays of enzymatic inhibition and the kinetic mode were performed to evaluate the inhibitory effect of BZYQF on α-amylase and α-glucosidase activities. The main constituent contents of BZYQF in a simulated digestion assay were measured to screen the active constituents in BZYQF against α-amylase and α-glucosidase activities via Pearson correlation and multiple linear regression analyses. Finally, the total flavonoids were purified from BZYQF to perform in vitro activity validation, and the flavonoid constituent activity was verified through molecular docking. Results: In vivo assays showed that BZYQF significantly reduced the blood glucose values of CON rats but not T2DM rats after glucose ingestion, while BZYQF significantly reduced the blood glucose levels by 15 min after starch ingestion in CON and T2DM rats, with more significant decreases in blood glucose levels in T2DM rats. In vitro enzymatic assays showed that BZYQF could inhibit the activities of α-amylase and α-glucosidase in competitive and non-competitive modes and in an uncompetitive mode, respectively. Furthermore, BZYQF showed a stronger inhibitory effect on α-glucosidase activity than on α-amylase activity. Simulated digestion showed that simulated gastric fluid and intestinal fluid changed the main constituent contents of BZYQF and their inhibition rates against α-amylase and α-glucosidase activities, and similar results were rarely found in simulated salivary fluid. Pearson correlation and multiple linear regression analyses revealed that the total flavonoids were the active constituents in BZYQF inhibiting α-amylase and α-glycosidase activities. This result was verified by examining the total flavonoids purified from BZYQF. A total of 1909 compounds were identified in BZYQF using UPLC-MS/MS, among which flavones were the most abundant and consisted of 467 flavonoids. Molecular docking showed that flavonoids in BZYQF were bound to the active site of α-amylase, while they were bound to the inactive site of α-glucosidase. This result supported the results of the enzyme kinetic assay. Conclusions: BZYQF significantly alleviated postprandial hyperglycemia in T2DM rats by inhibiting α-amylase and α-glycosidase activities, in which flavonoids in BZYQF were the active constituents.
Evaluation of Preclinical Efficacy of Curcumin-Loaded Bicosome Systems in Amelioration of Oral Mucositis
Authors: Vergara Daniela , Sanhueza Claudia , Méndez Susana , Bustamante Mariela , Vega Benjamín , Acevedo Francisca , López Olga
Published: February 2025

Background/Objectives: Oral mucositis (OM) is a common and debilitating side effect of cancer therapy, characterized by ulceration or inflammation of the oral mucosa. This study evaluates the preclinical efficacy of curcumin-loaded bicosome systems (cur-BS) in mitigating chemotherapy-induced OM in mice. Methods: BS were prepared using a combination of 1,2-di-palmitoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (DPPC) and 1,2-dihexanoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (DHPC), α-tocopherol, and curcumin, encapsulated within liposomal vesicles. Three formulations with different curcumin concentrations (180, 540, and 900 μM) were characterized by particle size, polydispersity index (PDI), encapsulation efficiency (EE), appearance, and morphology. The formulation with the highest concentration (cur-BS 5×) was selected for ex vivo permeability studies, release profile analysis, and in vitro anti-inflammatory efficacy. OM was induced in mice using 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) and acetic acid. Cur-BS 5× was compared to the commercial product Dentoxol®. Results: The results showed that cur-BS 5× provided sustained release through a mechanism involving both diffusion and matrix relaxation, enhancing curcumin retention in deeper skin layers. Treatment with cur-BS 5× downregulated the expression of inflammatory markers (IL-1β and TNF-α). Macroscopic assessments demonstrated that both cur-BS 5× and Dentoxol® reduced OM severity, with the greatest improvement observed between days 6 and 9. By day 24, OM scores were 1.25 ± 0.5 for cur-BS 5× and 1.0 ± 0.0 for Dentoxol®, indicating effectiveness in both treatments. However, histological analysis revealed superior tissue recovery with cur-BS 5×, showing better epithelial structure and reduced inflammation. Cur-BS 5×-treated mice also exhibited greater weight recovery and higher survival rates compared to the Dentoxol® group. Conclusions: These findings suggest that cur-BS 5× may enhance OM treatment, offering outcomes comparable to or better than those of Dentoxol®.
Development, Characterization, and Antimicrobial Evaluation of Hybrid Nanoparticles (HNPs) Based on Phospholipids, Cholesterol, Colistin, and Chitosan Against Multidrug-Resistant Gram-Negative Bacteria
Authors: Perdomo Isabella , Mora Carolina , Pinillos Juan , Oñate-Garzón José , Salamanca Constain H.
Published: February 2025

Background: Colistin, a lipopeptide antibiotic usually used as a last resort against multidrug-resistant bacterial strains, has also begun to address the challenge of antimicrobial resistance. Objective: this study evaluates whether hybrid nanoparticles (HNPs) composed of Phospholipon® 90G, cholesterol, and colistin can enhance its effectiveness against resistant clinical isolates of Klebsiella pneumoniae, a clinically significant Gram-negative bacterium. Methods: HNPs were developed using the ethanol injection method and coated with chitosan through a layer-by-layer technique. HNP characterization included measurements of particle size, polydispersity index (PDI), and zeta potential, along with thermal (DSC) and spectrophotometric (FT-IR) analyses. Ultrafiltration and ATR-FTIR were employed to assess colistin’s association and release efficiencies. The biological evaluation followed CLSI guidelines. Results: uncoated hybrid nanoparticles (U-HNP) and chitosan-coated hybrid nanoparticles (Ch-HNP) described monodisperse populations, with respective PDI values of ~0.124 and ~0.150, Z-averages of ~249 nm and ~250 nm, and zeta potential values of +17 mV and +20 mV. Colistin’s association and release efficiencies were approximately 79% and 10%, respectively. Regarding antimicrobial activity, results showed that colistin as part of HNPs is poorly effective against this microorganism. However, in the most resistant strain, colistin activity increased slightly when the HNP was coated with chitosan. Conclusions: HNPs described high stability against disaggregation, limiting the colistin release and, therefore, affecting antimicrobial performance.
High-Peak-Power Sub-Nanosecond Laser Pulse Sources Based on Hetero-Integrated “Heterothyristor–Laser Diode” Vertical Stack
Authors: Slipchenko Sergey , Podoskin Aleksander , Shushkanov Ilia , Rizaev Artem , Kondratov Matvey , Shamakhov Viktor , Kapitonov Vladimir , Bakhvalov Kirill , Grishin Artem , Bagaev Timur , Ladugin Maxim , Marmalyuk Aleksander , Simakov Vladimir , Pikhtin Nikita
Published: February 2025

Compact high-power sub-nanosecond laser pulse sources with a wavelength of 940 nm are developed and studied. A design for laser pulse sources based on a vertical stack is proposed, which includes a semiconductor laser chip and a current switch chip. To create a compact high-speed current switch, a three-electrode heterothyristor is developed. It is found that the use of heterothyristor-based current switches allows the creation of a low-loss pump current circuit, generating short current pulses and operating the semiconductor laser in gain-switching mode. For the semiconductor laser chip, an asymmetric semiconductor heterostructure with a quantum-well active region is designed. The design of the emitting aperture of the laser chip is optimized to improve the operating characteristics of the laser beam when generating sub-ns optical pulses. It is shown that the transition to a monolithic emitting aperture design reduces the laser pulse turn-on spatial inhomogeneity, which is 90 ps over the entire range of optical powers studied. It is also demonstrated that by increasing the emitting aperture width to 400 μm, laser pulses with a peak power of 39.5 W and a pulse width at full width at half maximum (FWHM) of 120 ps can be generated.
The Genomic and Phenotypic Characterization of the Sym2A Introgression Line A33.18 of Pea (Pisum sativum L.) with the Increased Specificity of Root Nodule Symbiosis
Authors: Sulima Anton S. , Zhuravlev Igor Yu. , Alexeeva Elizaveta A. , Kliukova Marina S. , Zorin Evgeny A. , Rakova Valeria A. , Gordon Michail L. , Kulaeva Olga A. , Romanyuk Daria A. , Akhtemova Gulnar A. , Zhernakov Aleksandr I. , Semenova Elena V. , Vishnyakova Margarita A. , Tikhonovich Igor A. , Zhukov Vladimir A.
Published: February 2025

In pea (Pisum sativum L.), alleles of the Sym2 gene determine the specificity of the interaction with nodule bacteria (rhizobia). The Sym2A allele present in landraces from Afghanistan provides higher selectiveness toward rhizobia than the Sym2E allele present in European cultivars. Rhizobial strains possessing the nodX gene can interact with both Sym2A and Sym2E peas, while strains lacking nodX can interact only with Sym2E peas. Here, we studied the previously obtained introgression line A33.18 bearing Sym2A in a homozygous state in the genome of the European pea cultivar ‘Rondo’. A33.18 has proved its high selectiveness in pot experiments. Genome sequencing has shown that A33.18 possesses an 18.2 Mb region inherited from Afghanistan pea with 63 genes, including 5 receptor kinase genes, among which was the Sym2 candidate gene LykX. In a field experiment, under inoculation with the nodX+ strain TOM, over 95% of nodules of A33.18 contained TOM, as opposed to less than 8% of nodules containing TOM in the parental European cultivar ‘Rondo’. Thus, introgression of Sym2A enabled peas to interact specifically with the nodX+ strain, favoring the formation of nodules by the strain from the inoculum and protecting peas from the indigenous soil microbiota.
Biocontrol of Fusarium solani: Antifungal Activity of Chitosan and Induction of Defence Enzymes
Authors: Torres-Rodriguez Juan Antonio , Reyes-Pérez Juan José , Carranza-Patiño Mercedes Susana , Herrera-Feijoo Robinson J. , Preciado-Rangel Pablo , Hernandez-Montiel Luis Guillermo
Published: February 2025

In this work, the efficiency of chitosan as a biocontrol agent against Fusarium solani on tomato plants was determined and the antifungal activity and the induction of defence enzymes were evaluated. Treatments were carried out with different concentrations of chitosan (1, 2 and 3 g L−1) combined with a synthetic fungicide (carbendazim). The results showed that all chitosan treatments significantly inhibited the mycelial growth and biomass of F. solani, with the most effective results obtained with the 3 g L−1 treatment. Scanning electron microscopy revealed that chitosan causes severe structural damage to F. solani, including cell lysis and the deformation of mycelium and spores. In addition, plants treated with chitosan showed significant improvements in height, stem diameter, root dry biomass and root length compared to those treated with synthetic fungicide and the control (no chitosan application). Enzyme assays showed that chitosan significantly increased superoxide dismutase, catalase, peroxidase and phenylalanine ammonia-lyase activity, indicating an increased defensive response. These results suggest that chitosan is a viable and less toxic alternative for the management of disease caused by F. solani in tomato plants, promoting both plant health and growth.
Effects of Straw Decomposition on Soil Surface Evaporation Resistance and Evaporation Simulation
Authors: Wang Shengfeng , Lei Longwei , Gao Yang , Zhan Enlai
Published: February 2025

As a prominent agricultural country, China has widely implemented returning straw to the field in agricultural production. However, as the decomposition of straw progresses, the physical properties of the soil change, inevitably leading to alterations in the soil surface evaporation model. This study investigated the variations in soil evaporation rate, soil moisture content over 60 days after returning straw to the field, and bare soil through two leaching pond experiments. Through soil moisture retention curves at different degrees of decomposition, this study analyzed the impact of straw decomposition on soil’s water retention capacity. Based on measured data, this study formulated models for the soil surface evaporation resistance of bare soil and varying degrees of straw decomposition. With the comparison and contrast between the models, this study clarified the impact of straw decomposition on soil surface evaporation resistance. The main conclusions are the following: The moisture content of the surface soil decreases exponentially over time and, after 40 days of straw decomposition, the water content of the soil under decomposition is higher than that of bare soil. As the moisture content decreases, the cumulative evaporation from the soil increases linearly. The cumulative evaporation of the decomposed straw soil is lower than that of bare soil, with a relative reduction ranging from 3.08% to 32.2%. The straw decomposition significantly enhances the water retention capacity of the soil in the medium-to-high suction range. The straw decomposition enhances the evaporation resistance of the soil surface, and the greater the degree of decomposition, the more significant the enhancement effect. The research findings not only provide a scientific basis for agricultural water management, but also possess practical implications for guiding farmers to adopt more effective moisture retention measures.
Genome-Wide Identification and Expression Analysis of Hexokinase Gene Family Under Abiotic Stress in Tomato
Authors: Li Jing , Yao Xiong , Zhang Jianling , Li Maoyu , Xie Qiaoli , Yang Yingwu , Chen Guoping , Zhang Xianwei , Hu Zongli
Published: February 2025

In plants, hexokinase (HXK) is a kind of bifunctional enzyme involved in sugar metabolism and sugar signal transduction that plays important roles in plant growth and development and stress response. Some HXK genes without a phosphorylation function have been found in Arabidopsis, tobacco, etc., but these genes have not been identified in tomato. Therefore, further genome-wide systematic identification and characterization is necessary for tomato HXK genes. In this study, six HXK genes were identified from the tomato genome distributed across six different chromosomes, named SlHXK1-6. Gene structure analysis showed that the SlHXK genes contain the same number of introns and exons. Gene duplication and collinearity analysis revealed two pairs of tandem repeats among SlHXKs, and a higher collinearity between tomatoes and potatoes were found. Response elements associated with phytohormones, abiotic stresses, and growth and development were identified in the promoter sequences of SlHXKs. Quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) results further indicated the potential role of SlHXKs in tomato development and stress responses. The expression levels of most SlHXKs were significantly induced by abiotic stress, hormone, and sugar solution treatments. In particular, the expression of SlHXK1 was significantly induced by various treatments. Functional complementation experiments were performed using HXK-deficient yeast strain YSH7.4-3C (hxk1, hxk2, and glk1), and the results showed that SlHXK5 and SlHXK6 were unable to phosphorylate glucose and fructose in yeast. In conclusion, these results provide valuable foundations for further exploring the sugar metabolism and sugar signal transduction mechanisms of HXK and the functions of SlHXK genes in various abiotic stresses, and some SlHXKs may be key genes for enhancing plants’ tolerance to abiotic stresses.
Transcriptome Analysis Revealed the Regulatory Mechanism of DIMBOA Affecting Early Somatic Embryogenesis in Dimocarpus longan Lour.
Authors: Xu Xiaoqiong , Zhang Chunyu , Tong Ning , Lan Xiaoyuan , Cui Jing , Muhammad Awais , Zhang Zhilin , Zhang Zihao , Chen Yukun , Lin Yuling , Lai Zhongxiong
Published: February 2025

Dimocarpus longan Lour. is an evergreen tree of the genus Longan in the Sapindaceae family, native to tropical and subtropical regions. Longan embryonic development is closely related to fruit set and fruit quality. An in-depth study of the mechanism of longan embryonic development could therefore contribute to the development of the longan industry. DIMBOA is the principal compound representing benzoxazinoids (BXs), and is closely linked to auxin biosynthesis and signal transduction. Auxin is one of the crucial hormones for inducing somatic embryogenesis (SE) in plants. Previous research has shown that DIMBOA promotes morphogenesis in the early somatic embryogenesis of longan, but the specific regulatory mechanism has not yet been clarified. To elucidate the molecular mechanism by which DIMBOA affects early somatic embryogenesis in longan, we chose longan embryogenic cultures grown under 0 mg/L DIMBOA as the control group (the check, CK), and longan embryogenic cultures grown under 0.1 mg/L DIMBOA as the treatment group (D) to be analyzed by transcriptomic sequencing. A total of 478 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) are detected in check vs. D, of which 193 are upregulated and 285 are downregulated. These DEGs are significantly enriched in the biosynthetic and metabolic functions of various substances such as vitamin B6 (VB6) biosynthesis, phenylpropanoid pathways, and carbohydrate metabolism. DIMBOA affects SE processes in longan via TFs, including MYB, ZF, bHLH, LBD, NAC, WRKY, etc. After DIMBOA treatment, the expression of most of the key genes for IAA synthesis was significantly downregulated, VB6 content was significantly reduced, and H2O2 content was significantly increased. Therefore, it is suggested that DIMBOA directly or indirectly affects the H2O2 content through the VB6 metabolic pathway, thereby regulating the endogenous IAA level to modulate the early SE morphogenesis of longan.
Study on Deposition of Coaxial Electrospinning Fibers by Coaxial Auxiliary Flow Field
Authors: Zhang Rongguang , Chen Xun , Wang Han , Sun Jianfeng , Huang Shize , Zhang Xuanzhi , Long Jiecai
Published: February 2025

Gas-assisted coaxial electrospinning (GACES) is a simple and general method for the mass preparation of coaxial nanofiber membranes, which has great industrial potential. However, in the manufacturing process, due to the bending instability of the jet in the electric field and the pulling effect of the gas flow field, the deposition uniformity of the fiber is still a big problem. Through finite element simulation analysis of the flow field in the manufacturing process and the construction of the jet mechanics model after adding the flow field, the influence mechanism of coaxial auxiliary flow on the fiber deposition area and its uniformity was successfully revealed in this research. Finally, the deposition area and thickness uniformity of coaxial fibers are increased by 3 times (the deposition area: 19.63 cm2 → 78.50 cm2) and 2.34 times (the standard variance: 3 μm2 → 10 μm2) by gas-assisted coaxial electrospinning. At the same time, the coaxial auxiliary gas flow also reduces the coaxial fiber diameter by 36.9% (the average fiber diameter: 241 nm ± 5 nm → 152 nm ± 23 nm) and the distribution range by 66% (the standard variance: 1.5 × 102 nm2 → 51 nm2). This research provides a reliable idea and experimental basis for homogeneous preparation of coaxial nanofiber membranes.
Surface Modification of Intumescent Flame Retardant and Its Application in Polypropylene with Excellent Fire Performance and Water Resistance
Authors: Zheng Xuqiang , Deng Mike , Jia Hao , Chen Xinyu , Wang Ruicheng , Sun Jun , Li Hongfei , Gu Xiaoyu , Zhang Sheng
Published: February 2025

Polypropylene (PP) has a wide range of applications in daily life but it is highly flammable. Intumescent flame retardants (IFRs) are used to improve the flame-retardant performance of polypropylene. However, the poor compatibility between IFRs and PP poses significant challenges. In this study, an IFR was reacted with γ-aminopropyl triethoxysilane (KH550) to introduce necessary reactive sites on the surface of the IFR. Subsequently, maleic anhydride-grafted SBS (SBS-g-MAH) was reacted with KH550 to further coat the IFR, resulting in a modified IFR named MA-IFR. The effects of MA-IFR on the flame retardancy, mechanical properties, and water resistance of PP composites were systematically investigated. The limiting oxygen index of the PP/MA-IFR composite reached up to 39.7%, with the vertical burning test (UL-94) achieving a V-0 rating. Moreover, compared to the control PP, the peak heat release rate and peak smoke release rate were reduced by 85.0% and 82.5%, respectively. In addition, the mechanical properties of the PP composites were significantly improved, with tensile strength and impact strength increasing by 29% and 18%, respectively, compared to those of the PP/IFR composite. Notably, the PP/MA-IFR composite maintained excellent flame retardancy, even after being immersed in water at 70 °C for 168 h. These results demonstrate that MA-IFR offers a promising solution for producing flame-retardant and water-resistant PP composites.
Signal Positioning of Lightning Detection and Warning System Combining Direction of Arrival Algorithm and Capon Algorithm
Authors: Han Yiming , He Bin , Shu Hongchun
Published: February 2025

Aiming at the poor warning effect and slightly low precision of signal positioning in the traditional lightning detection and warning system, the research utilizes the artificial intelligence approach to signal positioning in the lightning detection and warning system for performance improvement. The study first digitized the lightning signal using the arrival direction algorithm and then used the Capon algorithm based on the digitized processing to reduce the interference and improve the accuracy of lightning positioning. The results indicated that the root mean square error value and positioning angle error of lightning warning signal positioning data processing by hybrid algorithm were 6.72% and 5.93%, respectively. Meanwhile, the percentage of detection efficiency and real time was 96.36% and 95.16%, respectively, and the anti-interference ability was 94.02%. Moreover, the average value of time-consuming lightning warning positioning and the positioning error were 2.39 s and 2.69%, respectively. Moreover, the performance of all the comparison indexes was better than that of the comparison methods. This indicates that the method not only improves the precision of lightning signal positioning but also enhances the stability and real-time performance of the system. It has significant application potential in the field of lightning detection and warning and can effectively improve the precision and timeliness of lightning warning.
Ant Colony Optimization for Accelerated Pathway Identification in Connection Element Method Reservoir Models: A Fast-Track Solution for Large-Scale Simulations
Authors: Zheng Yuanhao , Liang Yongcan , Liu Botao , Yu Huaping , Tian Fei , Xia Jinjun , Zhang Xi
Published: February 2025

In recent years, reservoir models based on the Connection Element Method (CEM) have gained extensive application in reservoir development. This mesh-free modeling approach effectively captures all flow paths and flow-splitting coefficients between nodes, providing a clear view of flow interactions and accurately identifying primary connectivity pathways between injection and production wells. However, the traditional approach of traversing flow paths and splitting coefficients imposes a significant computational load, particularly when applied to large reservoirs with numerous virtual wells. To enhance simulation efficiency, this paper introduces a novel method leveraging the Ant Colony Optimization (ACO) algorithm to efficiently identify the path with the highest splitting coefficient between well pairs. This approach rapidly calculates and filters the dominant connectivity paths between injection and production wells in CEM models. A comparative analysis shows that, while the ACO algorithm provides limited benefit with a small number of connectivity paths, it significantly outperforms the conventional depth-first search algorithm as the number of experimental wells increases.
An Integrated Method for Inverting Beach Surface Moisture by Fusing Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Orthophoto Brightness with Terrestrial Laser Scanner Intensity
Authors: Zhu Jun , Tan Kai , Yin Feijian , Song Peng , Huang Faming
Published: February 2025

Beach surface moisture (BSM) is crucial to studying coastal aeolian sand transport processes. However, traditional measurement techniques fail to accurately monitor moisture distribution with high spatiotemporal resolution. Remote sensing technologies have garnered widespread attention for providing rapid and non-contact moisture measurements, but a single method has inherent limitations. Passive remote sensing is challenged by complex beach illumination and sediment grain size variability. Active remote sensing represented by LiDAR (light detection and ranging) exhibits high sensitivity to moisture, but requires cumbersome intensity correction and may leave data holes in high-moisture areas. Using machine learning, this research proposes a BSM inversion method that fuses UAV (unmanned aerial vehicle) orthophoto brightness with intensity recorded by TLSs (terrestrial laser scanners). First, a back propagation (BP) network rapidly corrects original intensity with in situ scanning data. Second, beach sand grain size is estimated based on the characteristics of the grain size distribution. Then, by applying nearest point matching, intensity and brightness data are fused at the point cloud level. Finally, a new BP network coupled with the fusion data and grain size information enables automatic brightness correction and BSM inversion. A field experiment at Baicheng Beach in Xiamen, China, confirms that this multi-source data fusion strategy effectively integrates key features from diverse sources, enhancing the BP network predictive performance. This method demonstrates robust predictive accuracy in complex beach environments, with an RMSE of 2.63% across 40 samples, efficiently producing high-resolution BSM maps that offer values in studying aeolian sand transport mechanisms.
Critical Insights into Untargeted GC-HRMS Analysis: Exploring Volatile Organic Compounds in Italian Ambient Air
Authors: Cerasa Marina , Balducci Catia , Giannelli Moneta Benedetta , Santoro Serena , Perilli Mattia , Nikiforov Vladimir
Published: February 2025

This study critically examines the workflow for untargeted analysis of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in ambient air, from sampling strategies to data interpretation by using GC-HRMS. While untargeted approaches are well-established in liquid chromatography (LC) due to advanced-deconvolution tools and extensive metabolomic libraries, their application in gas chromatography (GC) remains less developed, particularly for VOCs. The high structural isomerism of VOCs and the relative novelty of GC-based untargeted methodologies present unique challenges, including limited software tools and reference libraries. Air samples from suburban and rural sites in central Italy were analyzed to explore chemical diversity and address methodological gaps. This study evaluates critical decisions, such as sampling strategies, extraction techniques, and data-processing workflows, highlighting the limitations of automated deconvolution tools and the need for manual validation. Results revealed distinct source contributions, with suburban areas showing higher levels of anthropogenic compounds and rural areas dominated by biogenic emissions. This work underscores the potential of GC-HRMS untargeted analysis to advance environmental chemistry, while addressing key pitfalls and providing practical recommendations for reliable application. By bridging methodological gaps, it offers a roadmap for future studies aiming to integrate untargeted and targeted approaches in air quality research.
Can Trust in Climate-Skeptical Governments Inhibit Pro-Environmental Action? Implications for Public Participation and Democratic Innovations
Authors: Duradoni Mirko , Severino Franca Paola , Neri Gabriele , Fiorenza Maria , Lindemann Norma , Puddu Luisa , Guazzini Andrea
Published: February 2025

In the scientific literature, being a woman and citizens’ trust are factors that are often linked to a higher frequency of pro-environmental behaviors. However, when a government adopts a skeptical narrative on climate change, describing natural disasters as mere ’tragedies’, extreme weather events as ’bad weather’, and simplifying climate change to ’unpredictable weather’, does citizens’ trust still serve as a factor that promotes pro-environmental behaviors? This study aimed to conduct a sex-sensitive analysis of the relationship between trust in the current Italian government (i.e., Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni) and pro-environmental behaviors related to conservation, transportation, environmental citizenship, and food consumption in a sample of 501 Italian citizens (65.1% cisgender women). This study reveals that greater trust in a climate-skeptical government is associated with lower implementation of pro-environmental behaviors (PEBs) and that this effect is less pronounced among women compared to men. These results highlight the importance of considering citizen’s trust in public participation, particularly in contexts where governmental narratives do not favor pro-environmental policies.
Data Are Power: Addressing the Power Imbalance Around Community Data with the Open-Access Data4HumanRights Curriculum
Authors: Kuffer Monika , Thomson Dana R. , Wakonyo Dianne , Kimani Nicera Wanjiru , Kohli-Poll Jonker Divyani , Okoko Enyo , Toheeb Rasak , Akinmuyiwa Bisola , Zanna Mohammed , Imole Dezyno , Maki Andrew
Published: February 2025

Data4HumanRights’ training materials have been developed as open-source and tailored to limited-resource settings, where community data collectors often live and work. Access to training on data collection, analysis, and visualisation to support the advocacy of vulnerable groups is essential, particularly in the context of increasing human rights challenges such as land rights, adequate housing, conflicts, and climate justice. This paper provides an overview of how the training materials were co-developed with community data collectors in Nigeria and Kenya, offering insights into the fundamental principles (i.e., inclusiveness, adaptive, limited resources, and being gender- and incentive-sensitive) and the structure of the open-access training materials. The development process resulted in 28 modules, each designed to be delivered in a face-to-face format in less than one day by a local trainer. To maximize adaptivity, the training modules can be mixed and matched (e.g., as individual modules or a learning path of several modules around a specific training need). The individual modules cover a range of methods and tools that are useful to human rights work and community advocacy, e.g., documenting evictions, performing rapid needs assessments after acute crises, community profiling, and monitoring community development indicators. The training materials contain instructions for the training facilitator(s) and all necessary training materials. To ensure inclusivity, the training covers both basic and advanced topics, with most modules designed to address basic needs that can be followed using a mobile phone, thereby avoiding the need for computers or printed handouts. The training results in Nigeria and Kenya showcase applications, including mapping waste problems and addressing forced evictions. Trained community groups produced maps of waste piles to prioritize community actions, such as finding space for urban agriculture, and conducted rapid needs assessments during a massive eviction. This approach helps reduce power imbalances and empowers community groups to effectively manage and utilise their own data.
Mechanochemical Synthesis of High-Entropy Layered Double Hydroxide MgCoNi/AlFeY
Authors: Kokoshkina Olga , Yapryntsev Maksim , Lebedeva Olga
Published: February 2025

In the present study, the possibility of synthesizing high-entropy hexacationic layered double hydroxide MgCoNi/AlFeY via mechanochemical synthesis was demonstrated. In the synthesis, the activation rate, activation time, and NaOH amount were varied. The main synthesis stages were as follows: the mechanical activation of salts, NaOH addition, washing with distilled water before achieving neutral pH, and drying at 100 °C. The stage of aging in aqueous solution was omitted. During the synthesis, the activation conditions were varied, the activation time ranged from 1 to 120 min, the rotation speed of the ball mill was changed from 200 to 400 rpm, and the ratio values of sodium hydroxide weight to the mass of cations were specified as 1.0, 1.5, or 2.0. The samples were characterized by X-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, scanning electron microscopy combined with an energy-dispersive analyzer, thermal analysis, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and Raman spectroscopy. The following optimal synthesis conditions for obtaining single-phase sample were determined: an activation rate of 300 rpm, an activation time of 30 min, and an m(cation)-to-m(NaOH) ratio of 1:1.
Effect of Dehydration on Light-Adapted States of Bacterial Reaction Centers Studied by Time-Resolved Rapid-Scan FTIR Difference Spectroscopy
Authors: Mezzetti Alberto , Malferrari Marco , Francia Francesco , Venturoli Giovanni
Published: February 2025

Dehydration is known to affect the rate of electron transfer backreaction from the light-induced charge separation state P+QA− to the neutral ground state PQA in photosynthetic bacterial Reaction Centers. On the other hand, a 20 s continuous illumination period has been demonstrated to induce (at 297 K) formation of one or more light-adapted states at different levels of dehydration; these light-adapted states are believed to be related to peculiar response(s) from the protein. In this work, we applied time-resolved rapid-scan FTIR difference spectroscopy to investigate the protein response under dehydrated conditions (RH = 11%) at 281 K both after a flash and under prolonged continuous illumination. Time-resolved FTIR difference spectra recorded after a laser flash show a protein recovery almost synchronous to the electron transfer backreaction P+QA− → PQA. Time-resolved FTIR difference spectra recorded after 20.5 s of continuous illumination (RH = 11%, T = 281 K) surprisingly show almost the same kinetics of electron transfer back reaction compared to spectra recorded after a laser flash. This means that the mechanism of formation of a light-adapted stabilized state is less effective compared to the same hydration level at 297 K and to the RH = 76% hydration level (both at 281 K and 297 K). Time-resolved FTIR difference spectra after continuous illumination also suggest that the 1666 cm−1 protein backbone band decays faster than marker bands for the electron transfer back reaction P+QA− → PQA. Finally, FTIR double-difference spectra (FTIR difference spectrum recorded after 18.4 s illumination minus flash-induced FTIR difference spectrum) suggest that at RH = 11%, a light-adapted state different from the one observed at RH = 76% is formed. A possible interpretation is that at RH = 11%, the protein response is modified by the fact that only protons can move easily, differently from water molecules, as instead observed for RH = 76%. This probably makes the formation of a real light-adapted P+QA− stabilized state at RH = 11% unfeasible.
Influencing Factors of Phosphorus Mobility and Retention in the Sediment of Three Typical Plateau Lakes
Authors: Wu Xue , Wang Yancai , Jiao Lixin , He Jia , Zhou Hongbin , Hao Zhengzheng
Published: February 2025

The mechanisms driving changes in the stability of phosphorus (P) in sediments under lake ecosystem degradation remain poorly understood. This study investigated the P-binding forms in sediments from three plateau lakes with different trophic states in Yunnan Province, China, aiming to elucidate the responses of sediment P compositions to human activities, lake trophic status, and dissolved organic matter (DOM) characteristics. The results showed that human activity directly contributed to sediment P retention. The trophic type of lake exerted a discernible effect on P mobility in the sediments, as eutrophic algae-type lakes had a higher content of sediment mobile-P. Moreover, the sediment DOM promoted the adsorption of BD-P and NH4Cl-P. Generally, exogenous pollution caused by human activity leads to lake eutrophication and a decline in lake ecosystem stability. This variation was largely influenced by water depth. A decrease in lake ecosystem stability leads to increased P mobility in sediments, which increases the risk of endogenous pollution. The DOM plays an important role in the mobility of sediment P. These insights offer a novel perspective for understanding how lake ecosystem characteristics are related to endogenous P loads in lakes.