bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mechanisms of Rhodopsin-Related Inherited Retinal Degeneration and Pharmacological Treatment Strategies
Authors: Azam Maria , Jastrzebska Beata
Published: January 2025

Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) is a hereditary disease characterized by progressive vision loss ultimately leading to blindness. This condition is initiated by mutations in genes expressed in retinal cells, resulting in the degeneration of rod photoreceptors, which is subsequently followed by the loss of cone photoreceptors. Mutations in various genes expressed in the retina are associated with RP. Among them, mutations in the rhodopsin gene (RHO) are the most common cause of this condition. Due to the involvement of numerous genes and multiple mutations in a single gene, RP is a highly heterogeneous disease making the development of effective treatments particularly challenging. The progression of this disease involves complex cellular responses to restore cellular homeostasis, including the unfolded protein response (UPR) signaling, autophagy, and various cell death pathways. These mechanisms, however, often fail to prevent photoreceptor cell degradation and instead contribute to cell death under certain conditions. Current research focuses on the pharmacological modulation of the components of these pathways and the direct stabilization of mutated receptors as potential treatment strategies. Despite these efforts, the intricate interplay between these mechanisms and the diverse causative mutations involved has hindered the development of effective treatments. Advancing our understanding of the interactions between photoreceptor cell death mechanisms and the specific genetic mutations driving RP is critical to accelerate the discovery and development of therapeutic strategies for this currently incurable disease.
The Effect of Diaphragmatic Breathing as a Complementary Therapeutic Strategy in Stress of Children and Teenagers 6–18 Years Old
Authors: Tsakona Pelagia , Kitsatis Ioannis , Apostolou Thomas , Papadopoulou Ourania , Hristara-Papadopoulou Alexandra
Published: January 2025

Background: Few studies are reported on interventions that have been carried out in children and adolescents using diaphragmatic breathing (DB) together with methods like counseling, muscle relaxation, therapeutic exercise, and music therapy. Objective: The goal of the review is to evaluate the effectiveness of DB as complementary therapy in the stress of the pediatric population (6–18 years old). Methods: Detailed research was carried out in the current literature to find relevant studies published from 2010 to October 2024 in PubMed and Cochrane Library. Thirteen studies that fulfilled the inclusion criteria were included in the study. Nine studies involved obese and overweight pediatric populations and the other four involved pediatric patients. Results: The interventions comprised two 8-week studies in an obese pediatric population, seven studies in healthy children and adolescents with normal weight. The studies were based on DB, muscle relaxation, nutrition, counseling, music therapy, and slow breathing exercises. The participants in the intervention group improved in comparison to those in the control group in terms of stress and depression in most included studies, in terms of school performance in two studies, in terms of better family relationships in one study, and showed improvement in anthropometric indicators in two studies. In four studies that involved pediatric patients, stress and fear of medical procedures were reduced. Conclusions: DB can effectively contribute on its own or in combination with other therapeutic methods to improving physiological and psychological indicators in the pediatric population. It is useful to integrate stress management programs that include DB training as clinical practice in primary healthcare and in school schedules for elementary and high-school students.
Real-Time Physics Simulation Method for XR Application
Authors: Sung Nak-Jun , Ma Jun , Hor Kunthroza , Kim Taeheon , Va Hongly , Choi Yoo-Joo , Hong Min
Published: January 2025

Real-time physics simulations are vital for creating immersive and interactive experiences in extended reality (XR) applications. Balancing computational efficiency and simulation accuracy is challenging, especially in environments with multiple deformable objects that require complex interactions. In this study, we introduce a GPU-based parallel processing framework combined with a position-based dynamics (PBD) solver to tackle these challenges. The system is deployed within the Unity engine and enhances real-time performance through the use of sophisticated collision detection and response algorithms. Our method employs an AABB-based bounding volume hierarchy (BVH) structure to efficiently detect collisions, and incorporates the Möller–Trumbore algorithm for precise triangle-level interactions. We also boost computational efficiency by storing collision data in GPU-accessible 2D textures. Experimental assessments show performance improvements of up to 1705% in GPU simulations over CPU counterparts, achieving stable real-time frame rates for complex models such as the Stanford Bunny and Armadillo. Furthermore, utilizing 2D texture storage improves the FPS by up to 117%, confirming its efficacy for XR applications. This study offers a robust, scalable framework for real-time physics simulations, facilitating more natural and immersive XR experiences.
Anomalous Polarization in One-Dimensional Aperiodic Insulators
Authors: Moustaj Anouar , Krebbekx Julius , Morais Smith Cristiane
Published: January 2025

Multilevel charge pumping is a feature that was recently observed in quasiperiodic systems. In this work, we show that it is more generic and appears in different aperiodic systems. Additionally, we show that for aperiodic systems admitting arbitrarily long palindromic factors, the charge pumping protocol connects two topologically distinct insulating phases. This confirms the existence of topological phases in aperiodic systems whenever their finite-size realizations admit inversion symmetry. These phases are characterized by an anomalous edge response resulting from the bulk–boundary correspondence. We show that these signatures are all present in various chains, each representing a different class of structural aperiodicity: the Fibonacci quasicrystal, the Tribonacci quasicrystal, and the Thue–Morse chain. More specifically, we calculate three quantities: the Berry phase of the periodic approximation of the finite-size systems, the polarization response to an infinitesimal static and constant electric field in systems with open boundary conditions, and the degeneracy of the entanglement spectrum. We find that all of them provide signatures of a topologically nontrivial phase.
Clinical Characteristics of Neuropathic Pain and Its Relationship with Cancer in Different Corporal Areas—A Systematic Review
Authors: Danés-López Fernanda , Diaz-Palominos Cristóbal , Ortiz Domínguez Anggie , Silva Rodriguez Alanna , Astorga Constanza , Martínez-Hernández Daniela , Valenzuela-Fuenzalida Juan Jose , Sanchis-Gimeno Juan , Nova-Baeza Pablo , Suazo-Santibáñez Alejandra , Oyanedel-Amaro Gustavo , Orellana-Donoso Mathias , Gutiérrez Espinoza Héctor
Published: January 2025

Background: Neuropathic pain (NP) and cancer are caused by nerve damage due to cancer or treatments such as chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and surgery, with a prevalence that can reach up to 40%. Causes of neuropathic cancer pain (NCP) include direct nerve invasion or compression by the tumor, as well as neural toxicity associated with treatments. This type of pain is classified into several categories, such as plexopathy, radiculopathy, and peripheral neuropathies. Methods: Medline, Web of Science, Google Scholar, CINAHL, and LILACS databases were searched until October 2024. Two authors independently performed the search, study selection, and data extraction. Methodological quality was analyzed using the Robins-I tool. Results: The main findings of this review indicate that, depending on the cancer type, neuropathic pain will exhibit different characteristics, as well as identifying which types of cancer have a higher probability of presenting neuropathic pain. Additionally, there is a direct relationship whereby the more advanced the cancer, the greater the likelihood of experiencing neuropathic pain. Finally, although chemotherapy is employed as a cancer treatment, this therapy is quite invasive, and one of its adverse effects is that treated patients have a higher probability of developing neuropathic pain. Conclusions: Neuropathic pain is a condition that adversely affects patients with cancer. A detailed understanding of the relationships and triggers that produce this condition is present in only a small percentage of patients with cancer and is necessary to provide better treatment and gain a more comprehensive understanding of the characteristics of neuropathic pain. The objective of this study is to describe the relationship between different types of cancer or various treatments and the presence of NP.
Exploring the Association Between Third Molar Agenesis and Carabelli Traits: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Madalena Isabela Ribeiro , Resende Heloisa Guimarães , Blancato Ariane Beatriz , de Menezes-Oliveira Maria Angélica Hueb , Baratto-Filho Flares , Santos Poliana Ferreira , Perin Camila Paiva , do Nascimento Thais Vilalba Paniagua Machado , Proff Peter , Kirschneck Christian , Lepri César Penazzo , Küchler Erika Calvano
Published: January 2025

Background/Objectives: Dental agenesis is the congenital absence of at least one tooth and has been associated with several other developmental dental conditions, such as morphological dental alterations and Carabelli trait. This study sought to investigate whether third molar agenesis is associated with Carabelli traits in permanent molars. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study that used a convenience sample obtained from the orthodontic records of German patients. Patients with syndromes, oral clefts, congenital alterations including dental agenesis (except agenesis of third molars), and severe cases of bruxism with a loss of tooth tissue were excluded. Teeth with cavitated lesions of dental caries, occlusal wear, restorations, and evident dental deformities were not included in the evaluation. The Carabelli trait was evaluated in the permanent maxillary molars. The Carabelli trait was classified according to its expression for each tooth as either absent, negative, and positive expressions. Third molar agenesis was evaluated only in patients older than 10 years old (based on when initial tooth formation should be visible in the panoramic radiographs). The two-sided Chi-squared test was used to investigate the association between the conditions, using an alpha of 5% (p < 0.05). Results: A total of 155 patients (74 females and 81 males) were investigated; 39 had third molar agenesis and 75 had the Carabelli trait. There was no statistical significance difference between patients with third molar agenesis and those with Carabelli traits in relation to sex (p > 0.05). The Carabelli trait was more common in first molars than in second molars. There was no statistical significant association between third molar agenesis and Carabelli traits (p > 0.05). Conclusions: Third molar agenesis was not associated with the Carabelli trait in the permanent molars in this population.
S-SP Inductive Power Transfer System with High Misalignment Tolerance Based on a Switch-Controlled Capacitor
Authors: Xie Mengqi , Zhang Heng , Yang Yajing , Wang Hao , Zhang Ningchao , Gong Zhaowei
Published: January 2025

In order to reduce the sensitivity of an inductive power transfer (IPT) system to the misalignment coupling coil, an S-SP-compensated IPT system with high misalignment tolerance based on a switch-controlled capacitor (SCC) is proposed. Firstly, the mathematical model of the S-SP compensation topology is established, the output characteristics and impedance characteristics of the system are analyzed, and a sensitivity analysis of the compensation element parameters is carried out using the compensation topology. An improved switching capacitor structure is proposed to dynamically compensate the S-SP IPT system. Finally, an experimental prototype was set up to validate the correctness of the theoretical analysis. The experimental results show that the proposed method can ensure that the system can operate in the resonant state with high efficiency when the coupling pad’s horizontal misalignment is within 30% (with the coupling coefficient varying from 0.22 to 0.14).
Efficiently Exploiting Muti-Level User Initial Intent for Session-Based Recommendation
Authors: Ding Jiawei , Wei Jinsheng , Lu Guanming
Published: January 2025

Session-based recommendation (SBR) aims to predict potential user interactions within an anonymous session. It utilizes learned user interests to recommend items. As research has progressed, researchers have shifted towards exploring user initial intent, which can provide practical guidance for item selection. However, a significant limitation of the current methodologies is that they often assume the first item in a session as the initial intent, neglecting the possibility of a random initial click. Additionally, these methods typically merge the initial intent with the session representation without considering dynamic changes in user interests. To address these challenges, we propose an innovative approach named Efficiently Exploiting Muti-level User Initial Intent for (EMUI) for session-based recommendation. This approach includes a multi-level initial-intent generation module (MIGM) and an interest matching module (IMM). Specifically, the MIGM is designed to extract a more comprehensive representation of user initial intent from various levels, effectively mitigating the issue of random initial clicks. Furthermore, we propose the IMM to ensure alignment between dynamic interests and user initial intent. The IMM identifies components within multi-level user initial intent that correlate with dynamic interests, thereby enhancing session representation and, ultimately, improving recommendation performance. In addition, in order to optimize the initial user intent at each level, we introduce a contrastive learning task to maximize the use of user initial intent at each level. A considerable number of experiments on three real-world datasets have shown that our EMUI has significantly enhanced the recommendation accuracy over state-of-the-art methods.
Genetic Patterns and Diversity of Postintroduction of Metasequoia glyptostroboides (Hu and W. C. Cheng) in Ningbo Forest Farm, China
Authors: Li Dongbin , Li Hepeng , Zhu Hong
Published: January 2025

The genetic characteristics of postintroduced Metasequoia glyptostroboides from three forest areas in Ningbo Forest Farm, China, were analyzed by using polymorphic SSR markers. High genetic diversity at the species level (Na = 5.306, Ne = 3.411, I = 1.269, Ho = 0.604 and He = 0.640) was detected. No significant difference in diversity was observed between mother trees and seedlings, indicating random mating or the absence of a founder effect. The group with the highest diversity was Shangliang seedlings (SLGS). Inbreeding was detected in two groups (SLGM and LXS), possibly due to biased sampling and selective pressures on these groups. AMOVA disclosed most genetic variation within groups (88%), with moderate differentiation (Fst = 0.117) and some gene flow (Nm = 1.887) between groups. Population structure analysis classified the six groups into distinct units, highlighting the need for tailored conservation strategies. These findings inform conservation and management practices for the introduced M. glyptostroboides.
Recovery of N-Methylmorpholine N-Oxide (NMMO) in Lyocell Fibre Manufacturing Process
Authors: Sawiak Maria , Souto Bernardo , Lawson Lelia , Lo Joy , Dolez Patricia
Published: January 2025

The lyocell process offers an environmentally friendly strategy to produce regenerated cellulose fibre from biomass. However, it is critical to recover and reuse the N-methyl-morpholine-N-oxide (NMMO) solvent to maximize the environmental benefits and lower the cost. This article reviews NMMO recovery and characterization techniques at the lab and industrial scales, and methods to limit the NMMO degradation during the process. The article also presents the results of a pilot study investigating the recovery of NMMO from lyocell manmade cellulosic fibre (L-MMCF) manufacturing wastewater. The work described includes the development of a calibration curve for the determination of NMMO content in aqueous solutions using Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR). Successful NMMO recovery from the wastewater was achieved using a rotary evaporator: the final NMMO concentration was 50, i.e., ready for use in the lyocell process, and no NMMO degradation was observed. The knowledge in this paper will support advances in L-MMCF manufacturing and the reduction in textile environmental footprint.
Incidence and Impact of Myocarditis in Genetic Cardiomyopathies: Inflammation as a Potential Therapeutic Target
Authors: Lutokhina Yulia , Zaklyazminskaya Elena , Kogan Evgeniya , Nartov Andrei , Nartova Valeriia , Blagova Olga
Published: January 2025

Background: Myocardial disease is an important component of the wide field of cardiovascular disease. However, the phenomenon of multiple myocardial diseases in a single patient remains understudied. Aim: To investigate the prevalence and impact of myocarditis in patients with genetic cardiomyopathies and to evaluate the outcomes of myocarditis treatment in the context of cardiomyopathies. Methods: A total of 342 patients with primary cardiomyopathies were enrolled. The study cohort included 125 patients with left ventricular non-compaction (LVNC), 100 with primary myocardial hypertrophy syndrome, 70 with arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy (ARVC), 60 with dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), and 30 with restrictive cardiomyopathy (RCM). The diagnosis of myocarditis was based on data from myocardial morphological examination or a non-invasive diagnostic algorithm consisting of an analysis of clinical presentation, anti-cardiac antibody (Ab) titres, and cardiac MRI. Results: The prevalence of myocarditis was 74.3% in ARVC, 56.7% in DCM, 54.4% in LVNC, 37.5% in RCM, and 30.9% in HCM. Myocarditis had a primary viral or secondary autoimmune nature and manifested with the onset or worsening of chronic heart failure (CHF) and arrhythmias. Treatment of myocarditis in cardiomyopathies has been shown to stabilise or improve patient condition and reduce the risk of adverse outcomes. Conclusions: In cardiomyopathies, the genetic basis and inflammation are components of a single continuum, which forms a complex phenotype. In genetic cardiomyopathies, myocarditis should be actively diagnosed and treated as it is an important therapeutic target.
Pan-Cancer Upregulation of the FOXM1 Transcription Factor
Authors: Pozzobon Daniele , Bellezza Arianna , Giorgi Federico M.
Published: January 2025

Background: The human FOXM1 transcription factor controls cell cycle progression and genome stability, and it has been correlated to the onset and progression of many tumor types. Methods: In our study, we collected all recent sequence and quantitative transcriptomics data about FOXM1, testing its presence across vertebrate evolution and its upregulation in cancer, both in bulk tissue contexts (by comparing the TCGA tumor dataset and the GTEx normal tissue dataset) and in single-cell contexts. Results: FOXM1 is significantly and consistently upregulated in all tested tumor types, as well as in tumor cells within a cancer microenvironment. Its upregulation reverberates in the upregulation of its target genes and can be used as a biomarker for poor cancer outcome in at least four tumor types. Conclusions: Despite its lack of cancer-related mutations and amplifications, the recurring upregulation of FOXM1 in all tumors puts a focusing lens on this gene as a candidate pan-cancer master regulator.
Spatial and Temporal Variability of Extreme Hydroclimatic Events in the Bani River Basin
Authors: Kouyaté Fousseini , Guédjé François Kossi , Ndiaye Assane , Ganni Mampo Orou Moctar
Published: January 2025

Severe hydroclimatic events affect ecosystems and human livelihoods, creating significant challenges for managing water resources. This study analyzed the rainfall and river flow trends in the Bani River Basin (BRB) from 1991 to 2020. Using indices such as the maximum rainfall over a one-day period (RX1DAY), maximum rainfall over a five-day period (RX5DAY), rainfall exceeding the 95th percentile (R95P), simple daily precipitation intensity (SDII), and peak discharge (Qmax), the modified Mann–Kendall test and Pettitt’s test were applied to assess the trends and identify potential breakpoints. The results revealed spatial variability, with southern regions showing reduced rainfall, while northeastern areas exhibit increasing extreme rainfall and river flow. The RX5DAY declined significantly after 2000, reflecting reductions in prolonged rainfall events, followed by the RX1DAY, which declined significantly after 2012, indicating a reduction in short-duration extremes. In contrast, the R99P, SDII, and Qmax exhibited positive trends, indicating intensifying rainfall intensity and extremes in discharge. A notable breakpoint was detected in 1993, marking a transition to increased extreme flows. The highest values of the rainfall indices (R95P, R99P, RX1DAY, RX5DAY, SDII) were concentrated in the southern part of the basin, while the north recorded lower values. These results highlight the basin’s vulnerability to climate variability and provide insights into hydroclimatic changes, serving as a basis for informed decision-making and future research.
Quality of Oral Anticoagulation Control with Warfarin According to Sex: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Viana Catiane Costa , Praxedes Marcus Fernando da Silva , Abreu Mauro Henrique Nogueira Guimarães de , Sousa Waleska Jaclyn Freitas Nunes de , Ferreira Cássia Rodrigues Lima , Campos Emílio Itamar de Freitas , Silva José Luiz Padilha da , Martins Maria Auxiliadora Parreiras
Published: January 2025

Evidence indicates a difference between men and women in oral anticoagulation control, but the results were discrepant. This study investigated the association of sex with oral anticoagulation control in patients on warfarin assisted by anticoagulation clinics (ACs) in Brazil. The cross-sectional study included patients on warfarin recruited at three public ACs in southeast Brazil (2014–2015). The quality of oral anticoagulation was estimated by the time in therapeutic range (TTR). Univariable and multivariable linear regression models were built to examine the association of sociodemographic, behavior, clinical, and drug therapy variables with TTR. Overall, 801 participants were studied (455; 56.8% women), with a mean age of 65.0 (13.4) years. The female sex was associated with lower TTR than the male sex (Beta (95% CI) = −17.01 (−30.25; −3.76), p = 0.012), however, this difference decreased with increasing age, becoming null after age 60. Smoking patients had a lower TTR than non-smokers (−5.18 (−10.02; −0.34), p = 0.036). The results showed that the association of sex with oral anticoagulation control is dependent on age. Women have lower TTR than men, but this difference is null in older patients. Knowledge of these factors may be useful for developing strategies to improve care for these patients.
The α-Synuclein Seeding Amplification Assay for Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Yi Ling-Xiao , Tan Eng King , Zhou Zhi Dong
Published: January 2025

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is the second most common neurodegenerative disease in the world. Currently, PD is incurable, and the diagnosis of PD mainly relies on clinical manifestations. The central pathological event in PD is the abnormal aggregation and deposition of misfolded α-synuclein (α-Syn) protein aggregates in the Lewy body (LB) in affected brain areas. Behaving as a prion-like seeding, the misfolded α-syn protein can induce and facilitate the aggregation of native unfolded α-Syn protein to aggravate α-Syn protein aggregation, leading to PD progression. Recently, in a blood-based α-Syn seeding amplification assay (SAA), Kluge et al. identified pathological α-Syn seeding activity in PD patients with Parkin (PRKN) gene variants. Additionally, pathological α-syn seeding activity was also identified in sporadic PD and PD patients with Leucine-rich repeat kinase 2 (LRRK2) or glucocerebrosidase (GBA) gene variants. Principally, the α-Syn SAA can be used to detect pathological α-Syn seeding activity, which will significantly enhance PD diagnosis, progression monitoring, prognosis prediction, and anti-PD therapy. The significance and future strategies of α-Syn SAA protocol are highlighted and proposed, whereas challenges and limitations of the assay are discussed.
Integrating Bacteriocins and Biofilm-Degrading Enzymes to Eliminate L. monocytogenes Persistence
Authors: Renye John A. , Chen Chin-Yi , Miller Amanda , Lee Joe , Oest Adam , Lynn Kevin J. , Felton Samantha M. , Guragain Manita , Tomasula Peggy M. , Berger Bryan W. , Capobianco Joseph
Published: January 2025

Listeria monocytogenes is a Gram-positive bacterium causing listeriosis, a severe infection responsible for significant morbidity and mortality globally. Its persistence on food processing surfaces via biofilm formation presents a major challenge, as conventional sanitizers and antimicrobials exhibit limited efficacy against biofilm-embedded cells. This study investigates a novel approach combining an engineered polysaccharide-degrading enzyme (CAase) with a bacteriocin (thermophilin 110) produced by Streptococcus thermophilus. Laboratory assays evaluated the effectiveness of this combination in disrupting biofilms and inactivating L. monocytogenes on various surfaces. The results demonstrated that CAase effectively disrupts biofilm structures, while thermophilin 110 significantly reduces bacterial growth and viability. The preliminary trials indicate a dual-action approach offers a potential alternative to conventional treatments, enhancing food safety by effectively controlling Listeria biofilms in food processing environments.
Theoretical Study of Antioxidant and Prooxidant Potency of Protocatechuic Aldehyde
Authors: Amić Ana , Mastiľák Cagardová Denisa , Milanović Žiko
Published: January 2025

In this study, the antioxidant and prooxidant potency of protocatechuic aldehyde (PCA) was evaluated using density functional theory (DFT). The potency of direct scavenging of hydroperoxyl (HOO•) and lipid peroxyl radicals (modeled by vinyl peroxyl, H2C=CHOO•) involved in lipid peroxidation was estimated. The repair of oxidative damage in biomolecules (lipids, proteins and nucleic acids) and the prooxidant ability of PCA phenoxyl radicals were considered. The repairing potency of PCA was investigated for damaged tryptophan, cysteine, leucine, DNA base guanine and linolenic acid. The thermodynamics and kinetics of the single electron transfer (SET) and formal hydrogen atom transfer (fHAT) mechanisms underlying the studied processes were investigated under physiological conditions in aqueous and lipid environments using the SMD/M06-2X/6-311++G(d,p) level of theory. Sequestration of catalytic Fe2+ and Fe3+ ions by PCA, which prevents HO• production via Fenton-like reactions, was modeled. Molecular docking was used to study the inhibitory capability of PCA against xanthine oxidase (XO), one of the enzymes producing reactive oxygen species. The attained results show that PCA has the capability to scavenge lipid peroxyl radicals, repair damaged tryptophan, leucine and guanine, chelate catalytic iron ions and inhibit XO. Thus, PCA could be considered a possible multifunctional antioxidant.
Preparation of Ca-Mg Double-Doped Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles and Their Drug-Loading and Drug-Releasing Properties
Authors: Zhang Qian , Huang Jiamin , Liu Chao , Chen Ruihua , Jiang Tao , Hailili Yusufu , Bahetibieke Telieke , Tang Xiaohui , Wang Mei
Published: January 2025

Breast cancer is a common clinical malignant tumor that seriously threatens women’s physical and mental health. Chemotherapy, as the first choice of breast cancer treatment, has limited its application in the clinic due to problems of poor stability, short half-life, and serious toxic side effects. With the emergence of nanotechnology, inorganic materials to prepare mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) have been widely used in anti-tumor drug carriers. However, their slow degradation rate limits their application in the biomedical field. Therefore, developing low-toxicity MSNs with good biocompatibility, biodegradability, and rapid release at the tumor site is a key scientific issue to be addressed. Here, we prepared DOX-loaded Ca-Mg-doped MSNs by electrostatic adsorption to obtain Ca-Mg@DOX@MSNs with suitable particle sizes and zeta potential, and the incorporation of calcium and magnesium also led to an increase in the degradation rate under acidic conditions and an accelerated release, which reduced the toxicity of DOX and promoted cellular uptake with good anti-tumor effects. This study provides a new idea for the clinical treatment of breast cancer.
Ochyronemus, a New Genus of the Tarsonemid Tribe Pseudotarsonemoidini (Acari: Heterostigmatina) from Mexico
Authors: Magowski Wojciech Ł. , Rezende Jose M. , Ochoa Ronald
Published: January 2025

A new genus for the tribe Pseudotarsonemoidini of the family Tarsonemidae is established in order to accommodate undescribed mites associated with bark beetles in Mexico. The new, monotypic genus Ochyronemus, with the type species O. jaliscoe being diagnostically and phylogenetically closest to the derived Pseudotarsonemoides-Tarsobisulcus cluster of the Pseudotarsonemoidini, possesses an intermediate position between these two genera. Details of the morphology related to its genus-level affiliation, primarily tibiotarsal I claw and leg setation, are compared in the context of the other genera of the tribe.
A β-Thalassemia Cell Biobank: Updates, Further Validation in Genetic and Therapeutic Research and Opportunities During (and After) the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Gambari Roberto , Gamberini Maria Rita , Cosenza Lucia Carmela , Zuccato Cristina , Finotti Alessia
Published: January 2025

Background: Cellular biobanks are of great interest for performing studies finalized in the development of personalized approaches for genetic diseases, including β-thalassemia and sickle cell disease (SCD), important diseases affecting the hematopoietic system. These inherited genetic diseases are characterized by a global distribution and the need for intensive health care. The aim of this report is to present an update on the composition of a cellular Thal-Biobank, to describe its utilization since 2016, to present data on its application in studies on fetal hemoglobin induction and on gene editing, and to discuss its employment as a “unique tool” during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: The methods were as follows: freezing, cryopreservation, long-term storage, and thawing of erythroid precursor cells from β-thalassemia patients; fetal hemoglobin (HbF) induction; CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing; HPLC analysis of the hemoglobin pattern. Results: The updated version of the Thal-Biobank is a cellular repository constituted of 990 cryovials from 221 β-thalassemia patients; the phenotype (pattern of hemoglobin production) is maintained after long-term storage; fetal hemoglobin induction and CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing can be performed using biobanked cells. In representative experiments using an isoxazole derivative as HbF inducer, the HbF increased from 13.36% to more than 60%. Furthermore, in CRIPR/Cas9 gene editing, de novo production of HbA was obtained (42.7% with respect to the trace amounts found in untreated cells). Conclusions: The implemented Thal-Biobank was developed before the COVID-19 outbreak and should be considered a tool of great interest for researchers working on β-thalassemia, with the aim of developing innovative therapeutic protocols and verifying the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on erythroid precursor cells.
Mechanisms of the Effect of Starvation Duration on the Regulation of Feeding Rhythm and Metabolic Physiology of Cultured Large Yellow Croaker (Larimichthys crocea)
Authors: Wang Xiaomeng , Liu Huang , Zhang Chenglin , Zhu Chen , Liu Huiyi
Published: January 2025

In recent years, significant progress has been made in China in the field of deep-sea large yellow croaker (Larimichthys crocea) farming. Compared with the traditional inshore aquaculture model, deep-sea culture of large yellow croaker enjoys a wider growing space with better water quality, thus enhancing fish quality. However, deep-sea aquaculture also faces challenges such as typhoons and strong currents, which often lead to prolonged starvation in fish. Therefore, in order to further promote the technological advancement of large yellow croaker in the field of deep-sea aquaculture, this experiment aimed to investigate the effects of varying starvation durations on the feeding rhythm and physiological state of large yellow croaker. With an initial body mass of 122.62 ± 11.08 g and a body length of (17.9 ± 1.04) cm as the samples, the experiment was divided into five groups, which were starved for 0 d (S0), 2 d (S2), 4 d (S4), 8 d (S8), and 16 d (S16) before resumption of feeding. The results were as follows: under starvation stress for 8 consecutive days, the total duration of feeding gradually decreased in large yellow croaker, but increased at starvation up to 16 days. Each replicate group had 50 large yellow croakers as test subjects, for a total of 750 large yellow croakers. Analyzing the linear regression equations of S0 with S2, S4, S8, and S16 groups, it was found that the trend of rate of change in feeding duration was consistent with the total duration of feeding, i.e., it decreased during 8 days and increased at 16 days. It indicated that the rate of feeding of large yellow croaker was accelerated within 8 days of starvation, while the rate of feeding was slowed down at 16 days of starvation. Furthermore, the blood glucose concentration of large yellow croaker decreased significantly after 8 days of starvation, while it rebounded significantly in the S16 group. Meanwhile, large areas of fatty degeneration were observed in the liver on the 8th day of starvation, followed by extensive hepatocyte necrosis on the 16th day. After resumption of feeding, there was some recovery within 4 days, but hepatocytes were still extensively edematous in the S8 and S16 groups. Meanwhile, the expression of inflammatory factor genes such as IL-1β, IL-10 and TNF-α in the liver increased with the prolongation of starvation time, in which both S8 and S16 groups in the liver were significantly different from the S0 group, and after resumption of feeding, the IL-1β and TNF-α genes of the S8 and S16 groups were significantly different from those of the normal feeding group (p < 0.05), while there was no differentiation for the IL-10 gene. Therefore, based on the results of this study, it is recommended to limit the duration of starvation in the large yellow croaker to no more than 8 days.
Evaluation of Brachypodium spp. System Model Against Fusarium poae
Authors: Arroyo Florencia , Martínez Mauro , Arata Agustín , Moreno María V. , Dufresne Marie , Stenglein Sebastián A. , Dinolfo María I.
Published: January 2025

Cereal crops are affected by one of the most devastating diseases worldwide, known as Fusarium head blight (FHB), with Fusarium graminearum being the most isolated causal pathogen. Another species associated with this disease is Fusarium poae. This species has been considered a relatively weak pathogen compared to F. graminearum, but its importance has increased due to its occurrence in cereal grains worldwide. Considering the advantages of using B. distachyon as a plant model and the importance of F. poae in crops, our study aimed to evaluate the potential use of Brachypodium as a plant model to evaluate the compatible interaction with F. poae. Twelve Brachypodium spp. accessions from different countries were inoculated with a selected F. poae set of isolates. Disease severity, conidial quantification, fungal DNA biomass, and nivalenol quantification were assessed. The results showed a compatible interaction between Brachypodium accessions and Fusarium poae, which allowed the use of the model plant for future plant–pathogen interaction studies.
Annotated Checklist of Poroid Hymenochaetoid Fungi in Central Asia: Taxonomic Diversity, Ecological Roles, and Potential Distribution Patterns
Authors: Gafforov Yusufjon , Yarasheva Manzura , Wang Xue-Wei , Rašeta Milena , Rakhimova Yelena , Kyzmetova Lyazzat , Bavlankulova Kanaim , Rapior Sylvie , Chen Jia-Jia , Langer Ewald , Munnavarov Burkhon , Aslonov Zafar , Bakokhoja Bobozoda , Zhou Li-Wei
Published: January 2025

Central Asia, located at the heart of Eurasia, is renowned for its varied climate and vertical vegetative distribution, which support diverse biomes and position it as a global biodiversity hotspot. Despite this ecological richness, Central Asia’s fungal diversity, particularly wood-inhabiting macrofungi, remains largely unexplored. This study investigates the diversity, ecological roles, and potential distribution of poroid Hymenochaetoid fungi in the region. By conducting field surveys, collecting basidiomes, and reviewing the literature and herbarium records from five Central Asian countries, we compiled a comprehensive checklist of these fungi. In total, 43 Hymenochaetoid species belonging to 18 genera were identified, with Inonotus, Phellinus, and Phylloporia being the most species-rich. Notably, Inonotus hispidus and Phellinus igniarius were found to be the most widespread species. These macrofungi play essential ecological roles as saprotrophs and pathogens of various identified host plant families, aiding in lignin degradation and exhibiting diverse enzymatic activities. For the first time, we modelled the potential distribution patterns of Hymenochaetoid fungi in Central Asia, revealing that their distribution is strongly influenced by host plant availability and temperature-related factors. The three most critical variables were host plant density, annual temperature range (Bio7), and mean temperature of the warmest quarter (Bio10). The distribution of suitable habitats is uneven, with highly suitable areas (4.52%) concentrated in the mountainous border regions between Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan. These results underscore the significance of specific environmental conditions for the growth and survival of Hymenochaetoid fungi in this region. Our findings highlight the urgent need for continued mycological and host plant research and expanded conservation initiatives to document and preserve macrofungal and botanical biodiversity in this under-explored area. In light of climate change, the collected mycological and botanical data provide a valuable reference for promoting forest health management globally.
Bis{µ-(2,2′-bipyridine-1κ2N,N′)-(6,6′-dicarbonyl-1κ2O,O′:2κO′)bis(N,N-diethylthioureato-2κS)}(acetato-1κO)(µ-acetato-1κO:2-κO′)(methanol-2κO)thoriumnickel
Authors: Noufele Christelle Njiki , Pham Chien Thang , Abram Ulrich
Published: January 2025

Reactions of 2,2′-bipyridine-6,6′-dicarbonyl-bis(N,N-diethylthiourea), H2Lbipy, with a mixture of thorium nitrate hydrate and nickel acetate hydrate in methanol with NEt3 as a supporting base yield brown single crystals of the bimetallic complex [ThNi(Lbipy)2(CH3COO)2(MeOH)]. Two 2,2′-bipyridine-centered bis(aroylthioureato) ligands connect the metal atoms in a way that the thorium atom is coordinated by two O,N,N,O donor atom sets, while the nickel atom establishes two S,O chelate rings in its equatorial coordination plane. The metal atoms are connected by a bridging acetato ligand, and their coordination spheres are completed by one methanol ligand (nickel) and a monodentate acetato ligand (thorium). A distorted octahedral coordination environment is established around the Ni2+ ion, while the Th4+ ion is in first approximation a 10-coordinate with a diffusely defined coordination polyhedron.
Mechanical and Catalytic Degradation Properties of Porous FeMnCoCr High-Entropy Alloy Structures Fabricated by Selective Laser Melting Additive Manufacturing
Authors: Cheng Lyusha , Deng Cheng , Huang Yushan , Li Kai , Han Changjun
Published: January 2025

This work investigated the mechanical and catalytic degradation properties of FeMnCoCr-based high-entropy alloys (HEAs) with diverse compositions and porous structures fabricated via selective laser melting (SLM) additive manufacturing for wastewater treatment applications. The effects of Mn content (0, 30 at%, and 50 at%) and topological structures (gyroid, diamond, and sea urchin-inspired shell) on the compression properties and catalytic efficiency of the Fe80-xMnxCo10Cr10 HEAs were discussed. The results indicated that an increase in the Mn content led to a phase structure transition that optimized mechanical properties and catalytic activities. Among the designed structures, the gyroid HEA structure exhibited the highest compressive yield strength, reaching 197 MPa. Additionally, Fe30Mn50Co10Cr10 HEA exhibited exceptional performance in catalytic degradation experiments by effectively degrading simulated pollutants with a significantly enhanced rate by 22.3% compared to other compositions. The Fe80-xMnxCo10Cr10 HEA catalyst fabricated by SLM demonstrated high stability over multiple cycles. These findings reveal that porous FeMnCoCr-based HEAs have significant potential for catalytic degradation of organic pollutants, providing valuable insights for future catalyst design and development in efficient and sustainable wastewater treatment.
Creep Resistance and Microstructure Evolution in P23/P91 Welds
Authors: Vodárek Vlastimil , Holešinský Jan , Kuboň Zdeněk , Palupčíková Renáta , Váňová Petra , Malcharcziková Jitka
Published: January 2025

This paper summarizes the results of investigations into heterogeneous P23/P91 welds after long-term creep exposure at temperatures of 500, 550 and 600 °C. Two variants of welds were studied: In Weld A, the filler material corresponded to P91 steel, while in Weld B, the chemical composition of the consumable material matched P23 steel. The creep rupture strength values of Weld A exceeded those of Weld B at all testing temperatures. Most failures in the cross-weld samples occurred in the partially decarburized zones of P23 or WM23 steel. The results of the investigations on the minor phases were in good agreement with kinetic simulations that considered a 0.1 mm fusion zone. Microstructural studies proved that carburization occurred in the P23/P91 weld fusion zones. The partial decarburization of P23 steel or WM23 was accompanied by the dissolution of M7C3 and M23C6 particles, and detailed studies revealed the precipitation of the Fe2 (W, Mo) Laves phase in decarburized areas. Thermodynamic simulations proved that the appearance of this phase in partially decarburized P23 steel or WM23 is related to a reduction in the carbon content in these areas. According to the results of creep tests, the EBSD investigations revealed a better microstructural stability of the partially decarburized P23 steel in Weld A.
Electrolytic Ni-P and Ni-P-Cu Coatings on PCM-Loaded Expanded Graphite for Enhanced Battery Thermal Management with Mechanical Properties
Authors: Güler Onur , Yazıcı Mustafa Yusuf
Published: January 2025

This study addresses the thermal management challenge in battery systems by enhancing phase change material composites with Ni-P and Ni-P-Cu coatings on phase change material/expanded graphite structures. Traditional phase change materials are limited by low thermal conductivity and mechanical stability, which restricts their effectiveness in high-demand applications. Unlike previous studies, this work integrates Ni-P and Ni-P-Cu coatings to significantly improve both the thermal conductivity and mechanical strength of phase change material/expanded graphite composites, filling a crucial gap in battery thermal management solutions. The results reveal that Ni-P-Cu-coated phase change material/expanded graphite composites exhibit a superior thermal conductivity of 27.1 W/m·K, significantly outperforming both uncoated and Ni-P-coated counterparts. Mechanical testing showed that the Ni-P-Cu coating provided the highest compressive strength at 39.4 MPa and enhanced tensile strength due to the coating’s highly crystalline structure and smaller grain size. Additionally, the phase-change characteristics of the phase change material/expanded graphite composites, with phase transition temperatures between 38 °C and 43 °C, allowed effective heat absorption, stabilizing battery temperatures under 1.25C and 2.5C discharge rates. Voltage decay analysis indicated that Ni-P and Ni-P-Cu coatings reduced polarization effects, extending operational stability. These findings suggest that Ni-P-Cu-coated phase change material/expanded graphite composites are highly effective in thermal management applications, especially in battery systems where efficient heat dissipation and mechanical durability are critical for performance and safety. This study offers a promising approach to improving energy storage systems for applications such as electric vehicles, grid storage, and portable electronics.
A Wearable Stiffness-Rendering Haptic Device with a Honeycomb Jamming Mechanism for Bilateral Teleoperation
Authors: Kwok Thomas M. , Zhang Bohan , Chow Wai Tuck
Published: January 2025

This paper addresses the challenge of providing kinesthetic feedback in bilateral teleoperation by designing a wearable, lightweight (20 g), and compact haptic device, the HJ-Haptic, utilizing a honeycomb jamming mechanism for object stiffness rendering. The HJ-Haptic device can vary its stiffness, from 1.15 N/mm to 2.64 N/mm, using a 30 kPa vacuum pressure. We demonstrate its implementation in a teleoperation framework, enabling operators to adjust grip force based on a reliable haptic feedback on object stiffness. A three-point flexural test on the honeycomb jamming mechanism and teleoperated object-grasping tasks were conducted to evaluate the device’s functionality. Our experiments demonstrated a small RMSE and strong correlations in teleoperated motion, stiffness rendering, and interaction force feedback. The HJ-Haptic effectively adjusts its stiffness in response to real-time gripper feedback, mimicking the sensation of direct object grasping with hands. The device’s use of vacuum pressure ensures operator safety by preventing dangerous outcomes in case of gas leakage or material failure. Incorporating the HJ-Haptic into the teleoperation framework provided the reliable perception of object stiffness and stable teleoperation. This study highlights the potential of the honeycomb jamming mechanism for enhancing haptic feedback in various applications, including teleoperation scenarios, as well as interactions with extended-reality environments.