bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nostalgia de José Revueltas en su novela Los errores
Authors: Rodíguez Ruiz Ricardo
Published: December 2024

La narrativa de José Revueltas (1914-1976) constituye un ícono en la historia literaria mexicana; a poco más de 40 años de su muerte, sus novelas y ensayos mantienen la fuerza de una de las voces críticas más lúcidas en nuestro ya concluido siglo XX. Aquí me interesa destacar cómo a través de los tópicos que aborda la voz narrativa en Los errores (1964), el escritor de Durango deja constancia de su propia subjetividad acerca del actuar del Partido Comunista en México.
Incertidumbres y algunas certezas
Authors: León García Ricardo
Published: December 2024

Con el presente número 62 de Cuadernos Fronterizos completamos nuestro vigésimo año de existencia. El compromiso de la Universidad Autónoma de Ciudad Juárez y de su Instituto de Ciencias Sociales y Administración es mantener este y otros canales de comunicación permanente con la comunidad. Seguiremos estando presentes, aunque la incertidumbre por el futuro inmediato y a mediano plazo nos impida echar campanas al vuelo.
Experiências com líderes migrantes latinos em Houston a partir da metodologia da História Oral
Authors: Sarmiento Érica
Published: December 2024

Em maio de 2024, a partir de experiências vividas em primeira pessoa na cidade de Houston (Texas, EUA), tive a possibilidade de conhecer e entrevistar algumas lideranças migrantes de origem latino-americana, basicamente de países centro-americanos e do México. A proposta foi compreender não propriamente as migrações, mas os migrantes, como sujeitos sociais ativos dos processos migratórios. Eles não são agentes passivos de forças estruturais ou de fatores de “expulsão” ou “atração”, nem simples força de trabalho, mas se constituem enquanto sujeitos na própria experiência de deslocamentos, nos espaços de trabalho, na família, ou ainda nas formas de organização associativa e política e práticas de sociabilidade.
On the anniversary of Professor Svetlana A.Shalnova
Authors: Editorial Article
Published: December 2024

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Saltmarsh Vegetation Zone Determines Microbial Nitrate Reduction Responses to Elevated Nitrate and Organic Matter Inputs
Authors: Ledford Taylor Carson , Mortazavi Behzad , Tatariw Corianne , Rice Sarah Elaine , Cherry Julia A.
Published: December 2024

Anthropogenic nitrogen (N) has more than doubled over the last century, with much of this excess N making its way to the coastal zone. Coastal marshes remove excess N via denitrification or, conversely, retain and recycle N through dissimilatory nitrate reduction to ammonium (DNRA). Organic carbon (C) and N availability are important for determining the partitioning of these two competing N-reduction pathways. Vegetation inherently links the C and N cycles by uptaking and releasing both elements. However, sea level rise and eutrophication are altering marsh vegetation composition, and subsequently, sediment microbial communities with direct consequences for ecosystem functions, such as N-removal. We tested how organic C and N additions affect partitioning of N-removal and N-retention processes among sediments from different vegetation zones in a salt marsh while controlling hydro-edaphic variables. We found sediments from Distichlis spicata patches had the lowest capacity for N-removal while sediments form Juncus roemerianus and Cladium mariscus patches had higher N-removal capacity. Under enhanced soil organic C and excess N loading, NO3- reduction responded differently depending on vegetation zone. N-retention increased 3-fold in the mid-marsh patches (Juncus and Distichlis) and dominated NO3- reduction processes in response to high C and N inputs, while N-retention and N-removal were offset in the high marsh Cladium patches. Our findings help to forecast how shifts in vegetation community following dynamic climatic conditions may affect global N processing in areas experiencing excess N loading.
High-resolution thermal imaging for melt pool dynamics studies in welding processes
Authors: Jorge Vinicius Lemes , Bendaoud Issam , Soulié Fabien , Bordreuil Cyril
Published: December 2024

Challenges in terms of reliability still surround thermal measurement methods in welding processes. However, the temperature distribution within the weld pool can provide important resources for understanding behaviors and explaining phenomena. This work aims to study the effect of gravity orientation on the temperature distribution within the weld pool using an in-house developed equipment. First, a combination of optical settings and a calibration procedure were established. The thermal field from the back side of fully penetrated thin plates was accessed using the GTAW process. Experiments were carried out with the same welding parameters under flat, horizontal, vertical upward, and vertical downward positions. The device allowed a well-delimitated and detailed weld pool thermal field assessment. Along the transversal weld pool direction, a symmetrical heat distribution was stated in the flat position while an asymmetrical one in the others. Moreover, the thermal field supported the discussions concerning the driving forces, as it was possible to quantify dimensionless numbers and plot the Marangoni shear stress on the weld pool surface. Finally, through the developed equipment, it was possible to evaluate the impacts of gravity on the heat distribution within the weld pool and demonstrate its contribution to dynamics studies.
60Coγ activation of Cladophora rupestris biomass functional groups and its effect on Pb2+ adsorption
Authors: Zhang Lu-sheng , Liu Zhao-wen , Qiu Chang-fa , Feng Xiao-yu , Ma Shi-ying , Yin Qian , Cao deju
Published: December 2024

To investigate the modification of Pb2+ adsorption of the functional groups of Cladophora rupestris (C. rupestris) biomass by gamma radiation (60Coγ-ray), the interface structure, chemical properties, adsorption behaviors, and Pb2+ adsorption mechanisms of C. rupestris biomass were investigated after irradiation with varying doses of 60Coγ-ray. The results indicate that 60Coγ-ray significantly changed the surface characteristics and interfacial chemistry of the C. rupestris biomass .This led to fracturing and fragmentation that produced a larger specific surface area and more abundant pore structure, increasing the electronegativity in the C. rupestris biomass. The theoretical Pb2+ adsorption capacity increased significantly (2.6–2.9 times) after 60Coγ-ray irradiation. 60Coγ-ray caused preferential degradation of protein components in the dissolved organic matter of the C. rupestris biomass, and protein deamination increased the absorption sites of cations. In the C. rupestris biomass, 60Coγ-ray altered the elemental composition and functional groups, particularly the carbon- and oxygen-containing functional groups, to improve Pb2+ adsorption. In conclusion, 60Coγ-ray can activate the functional groups of C. rupestris biomass and improve their Pb2+ adsorption sites. This study provides new insight into modification of biomass materials for enhanced removal of heavy metals from waterbodies.
Silencing of β-catenin1 blocks tail regeneration, but does not induce head regeneration in the flatworm Macrostomum lignano
Authors: Kibet Moses Kitilit , Hilchenbach Jochen , Neumann Lucy , Mayer Richard , Aigner Gerhard P. , Höckner Martina , Hobmayer Bert , Egger Bernhard
Published: December 2024

β-Catenin has two major functions conserved across metazoans. It enables the interaction of classical cadherin with actin at apical junctional complexes and it is the main transcription factor activated by the canonical Wnt pathway. In these two functions, it acts in cell differentiation, proliferation, and in determining the major body axis in early embryos. 4 β-catenin homologs have been described in the highly regenerating planarian flatworm Schmidtea mediterranea. Among them, only Smed-β-catenin1 is involved in establishing posterior identity. Silencing of Smed-β-catenin1 during regeneration leads to head formation in both anterior and posterior wound sites. In regeneration-deficient planarians, β-catenin1 RNAi also rescues head regeneration in posterior pieces. Using phylogenetic inference with β-catenin homologs from a diverse range of flatworms, we found that duplication of β-catenin occurred only in Rhabditophora. In Macrostomum lignano,there are 3 β-catenin homologs. RNA interference of Mlig-β-catenin1, but not of Mlig-β-catenin2a or Mlig-β-catenin2b blocked tail regeneration and resulted in the lack of blastema and a strong reduction of cell proliferation at the wound site. After knockdown, tails frequently regenerated imperfectly. At no amputation level could RNAi of any β-catenin rescue head regeneration in M. lignano. These findings demonstrate the requirement for Mlig-β-catenin1 in determining posterior identity and affirms the conserved role of Wnt/β-catenin in specifying the anterior-posterior axis. The failure of head regeneration upon knockdown in M. lignano suggests that the rescue of head regeneration in the absence of β-catenin1 is not a conserved feature in flatworms, but possibly an apomorphy of planarians.
Association between Clonal Hematopoiesis and Periodontitis: A Two-Sample Mendelian Randomization Study
Authors: Qiu Feng , Shao Wei , Qin Xue , Xu Ran , Lu Hua
Published: December 2024

Background
Clonal hematopoiesis is an age-related condition in which somatically mutated blood cells clonally expand. Recently, a series of studies mentioned a possible link between CH and periodontitis; however, the exact cause-effect relationship has not yet been clarified.
Methods
We performed MR analyses with two samples to investigate a possible causal relationship between different clonal hematopoiesis phenotypes and susceptibility to periodontitis.Variants of clonal hematopoiesis phenotypes included overall clonal hematopoiesis (CH-overall), CH with a DNMT3A mutation (CH-DNMT3A), CH with a TET2 mutation (CH-TET2), large clones (CH-large), and small clones (CH-small). Genetic instruments were derived from genome-wide association study data. The main method of analysis used was the IVW method. Sensitivity analyses included the weighted median, MR-Egger regression and MR-PRESSO. Reverse MR analyses were also performed to look for bidirectional effects.
Results
MR analysis revealed a significant association between CH-DNMT3A and periodontitis, with an odds ratio of 0.084 (95% confidence interval: 0.007–0.972, P = 0.047). These findings suggest that CH-DNMT3A may play a protective role in the development of periodontitis.No other CH phenotypes, such as CH-overall, CH-TET2, CH-large, or CH-small, were associated with periodontitis. The inverse MR analyses provided no statistical evidence for an association of periodontitis with any of the CH phenotypes. There was no evidence of pleiotropy or heterogeneity.
Conclusions
Our findings indicate a novel protective role for DNMT3A-mutated clonal hematopoiesis (CH) in periodontitis.However, additional research is necessary to clarify the underlying mechanisms of this association.
Fractal characteristics and controlling factors of coal bearing shale pores in the continental fault depression basin of western Liaoning, Northeast China
Authors: Xiao Bin , Dong Guoji , Zhao Zhongying , Yang Zhenhua , Fan Chaojun , Jiang Chunhao , Li Sheng
Published: December 2024

The micro-pore system in shale serves as the gas storage location, and the characterization of micro-pore structure and fractal features is crucial for reservoir research. The development of porosity in shale reservoirs exhibits significant complexity and heterogeneity. While the study of porosity development characteristics in marine shale reservoirs has advanced, research on coal-system shale reservoirs lags behind and requires comprehensive investigation into their fractal characteristics and controlling factors. The study focuses on the coal bearing shale of the Cretaceous Shahai Formation in the Fuxin Basin. By conducting comprehensive analyses of total organic carbon (TOC), mineralogy, and low-temperature N2 adsorption experiments, this study investigated the relationship between pore structure characteristics and fractal properties of coal-forming shale, as well as the impact of organic matter content, maturity, and mineral composition on the fractal dimension. The results show that the TOC content of the Shahai Formation shale varies greatly (averaging 3.41%) and is rich in clay minerals (averaging 40.91%). Shale development features ink bottle-shaped pores with narrow necks and wide body, parallel plate-shaped pores with openings on all sides, and possibly slit-shaped pores formed by clay minerals. The shale pores exhibit a distinct dual fractal characteristic, with average fractal dimensions D1 and D2 of 2.5243 and 2.7001, respectively. The internal structure is more complex than the surface structure. The micropores in shale play the most significant role in determining the fractal dimension, and are primarily responsible for the non-uniformity and complexity of the pore structure. Organic matter contributes more to the enhancement of the complexity of internal pore space than the roughness of pore surfaces. The number of micropores in organic matter significantly increases with the degree of thermal evolution of organic matter. Carbonate minerals present in the form of cementing material promote the development of micropores, reduce the proportion of mesopores and macropores, and increase the complexity of pores. The anti compaction ability of clay mineral particles is weak. During the compaction and diagenesis process, mineral particles tend to be oriented and arranged, reducing pore space and simplifying pore morphology, thus reducing the complexity of pores. Related studies will provide scientific theoretical support for the comprehensive evaluation of coal bearing shale reservoirs and the study of oil and gas accumulation theories. They also have some significance in revealing the pore development mechanism of coal bearing shale and selecting favorable reservoirs.
Production and Characterization of Corncob-Borax Particulate Reinforced Polyester Composites for Flame Retardant Applications
Authors: Olayemi Abigail. B , Oladele Isiaka. O , Adetuyi Abayomi. O , Falana Samuel. O
Published: December 2024

This study explores the influence of corncob and borax reinforcements on the mechanical and flame-retardant properties of polyester composites. Composites were produced using the hand lay-up technique with varying weight percentages of treated-corncob (3, 9, 15 wt%) and borax (12, 15, 18 wt%). Mechanical properties such as tensile and flexural properties, hardness, and impact resistance were evaluated, alongside flame retardancy through burning rate tests. Morphological and elemental analyses were conducted using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Energy Dispersive X-ray (EDX), while Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) and X-ray Diffraction (XRD) provided insights into the chemical structure and crystalline phases. The XRD analysis indicated an increase in the crystallinity index of treated corncob, suggesting enhanced order within the cellulose structure, which correlates with improved mechanical properties. FTIR results confirmed the presence of functional groups indicative of cellulose, suggesting effective interaction between the fillers and the polyester matrix. The findings revealed that adding borax and corncob significantly enhanced hardness, flexural, and tensile modulus, with the composite containing 18 wt% borax and 15 wt% corncob exhibiting optimal performance. However, tensile strength and impact resistance decreased slightly compared to pure polyester due to stress concentrations. In flame retardancy tests, higher borax content notably reduced burning rates, with the composite containing 18 wt% borax and 15 wt% corncob demonstrating superior flame resistance. In conclusion, the hybrid reinforcement of borax and corncob in polyester offers a sustainable solution, enhancing mechanical properties and flame resistance, making these composites suitable for applications requiring both durability and fire safety.
PDIA6 promotes the progression of ESCC via AKT1/mTOR signal pathway by forming disulfide-dependent TRAF4
Authors: Liu Kangdong , Chen Yingying , Li Xiaoyu , Chen Yurong , Shi Yunshu , Yuan Qiang , Han Ruixian , Zhang Yuhan , Zhao Xiaokun , Hu Yamei , Zhou Yujuan , Zhang Chengjuan , Wu Xiong , Zhao Jimin , Dong Zigang , Jiang Yanan
Published: December 2024

Unveiling the underlying mechanism of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) is particularly valuable for discovering new therapeutic targets. The AKT1/mTOR pathway is a potential therapeutic pathway for ESCC. However, there has been limited investigation into sustaining constant activation of the AKT1/mTOR pathway. Here, we found that protein disulfide isomerase A6 (PDIA6), a protein disulfide isomerase, was highly expressed and negatively correlated with the survival of ESCC patients. PDIA6 promoted ESCC cell proliferation in vitro and in vivo. Mechanically, PDIA6 bound to tumor necrosis factor receptor-associated factor 4 (TRAF4) and catalyzed the formation of disulfide bonds at 39/42 and 83/106 sites to maintain TRAF4 stability by inhibiting SMAD-specific E3 ubiquitin protein ligase 1 (SMURF1) -mediated ubiquitination of TRAF4, resulting in the activating AKT1/mTOR signaling pathway. Notably, targeting PDIA6 with ASO treatment blocked the TRAF4/AKT1/mTOR signaling pathway, decreasing ESCC tumor growth. Therefore, PDIA6 can inhibit the AKT1/mTOR signaling pathway and retard ESCC progression. Our research highlights a novel mechanism for activating the AKT1/mTOR signaling pathway and provides a potential therapy strategy for ESCC.
ZWILCH affects the prognosis of cancer patients by participating in cell proliferation, enhancing cell communication, and reshaping the tumor microenvironment
Authors: Yao Long , Liu Lianpo , Wu Jinsong , Huang Yunlong , Zhang Renquan , Zhang Haoxue
Published: December 2024

Background
ZWILCH has been reported to prevent cells from prematurely exiting mitosis. However, the underlying mechanisms or involvement of ZWILCH in the tumor immune microenvironment in various cancers remain largely unknown.
Methods
Generalized dysregulation of ZWILCH was observed through the whole transcriptome analysis in this study. The spatial transcriptome analysis was utilized to identify expressed regions of ZWILCH. Next, cells that mainly expressed ZWILCH in the tumor microenvironment were determined using the single-cell transcriptome analysis. Also, the “cellchat” R package was applied to estimate the effect of ZWILCH on malignant cell communication. Combining multiple analytic approaches including GSEA, GSVA, KEGG enrichment analysis, and Aucell, with TCPA functional protein data, Genome-wide CRISPR screening, potential functions of ZWILCH and the pathways in which ZWILCH participated were thoroughly exploited. Univariate Cox regression analysis calculated the association between ZWILCH and cancer patients’ adverse outcomes.
Results
ZWILCH is universally highly expressed in tumors. The spatial transcriptome analysis showed that ZWILCH overexpression comes from the tumoral region or mixed tumoral region. At the single-cell level, ZWILCH is chiefly expressed by malignant cells and proliferative T cells. The expression of ZWILCH mRNA is positively correlated with cell proliferation, repair of DNA damage, and cell cycle score. Plenty of metabolic pathways are inhibited in patients with high expression of ZWILCH. Moreover, after ZWILCH knockout, a large number of cancer cell lines are stagnated, inhibited, or died. Additionally, the malignant cells with positive expression of ZWILCH have a stronger ability for cell communication. In short, ZWILCH is meant to be a risk factor for clinical outcomes of multiple tumors.
Conclusions
ZWILCH is a promising therapeutic target that influences patient prognosis by participating in cell proliferation, enhancing cell communication, and reshaping the tumor microenvironment across different cancers.
Topological hysteretic winding for ultrafast anti-lasing
Authors: Fleury Romain , Qin Haoye , Zhang Zhe , Wang Junda
Published: December 2024

Coherent perfect absorption (CPA), or anti-lasing, has been so far inherently restricted to continuous wave scenarios, drastically restricting its applications to standard linear steady-state systems. However, future technologies based on enhanced light-matter interactions typically require the non-linear emission and absorption of pulses, as in ultrafast optics, frequency-comb technologies, or spiking neuromorphic networks. Here, we propose to extend the reach of anti-lasing to pulsed operation. We unveil the phenomenon of ultrafast anti-lasing, in which perfect absorption of photons occurs transiently over ultrashort time scales, creating fast absorption pulses associated with broadband absorption frequency combs. This is obtained by leveraging robust topological transitions occurring in a hysteretic scattering system, which is temporally modulated to loop near a CPA singularity. Our work evidences the interplay between intrinsic memory and topology in wave scattering, unveiling the rich physics of ultrafast Floquet engineering through topological switching. We envision applications in spiking photonic networks with robust emission, routing and detection of spikes, which may form the basis for future analog neuromorphic hardware.
RGS3 functions as a tumor promoter by facilitating the activation of the TGF-β signaling pathway and promoting EMT in ovarian cancer.
Authors: Zhou Jinhua , Wang Zizhao , Sun HuaTing , Zhu Shunpeng , Wang Fang , Li Quan
Published: December 2024

Ovarian cancer (OC) is one of the most common and lethal solid malignancies among women, with its incidence steadily rising. Despite substantial advancements in OC research, its pathogenesis remains largely elusive. Recent studies indicate that the regulator of G protein signaling 3 (RGS3) is implicated in tumorigenesis, however, its specific role in OC development has not been extensively investigated. Herein, this research elucidated that the overexpression of RGS3 in OC correlates with adverse clinical pathological features and tumor progression. Furthermore, we demonstrated that silencing RGS3 promotes apoptosis, effectively inhibiting tumor growth and metastasis. Additionally, our findings reveal that RGS3 enhances oncogenic activity by activating the Transforming Growth Factor-beta (TGF-β) pathway and corresponding epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). The in-depth mechanism lies in the RGS3 facilitating the phosphorylation of SMAD2/3 by directly interacting with AT-rich interactive domain-containing protein 3B (ARID3B), which ultimately drives OC cell proliferation and metastasis. Therefore, our results position RGS3 as a significant prognostic biomarker and tumor-promoting factor in OC, underscoring the pivotal role of the RGS3/TGF-β/EMT signaling pathway in the pathogenesis of this malignancy.
KLF7-Regulated ITGA2 as a Therapeutic Target for Inhibiting Oral Cancer Stem Cells
Authors: Lyu Jiong , QI Xin , Li Haoran , Shen Wenyi , Luo Xiayan , Zhao Wenquan , Zhu Huiyong , Li Cang , Zhou Jiang , Li Yunyan , Ma Xiaoqing , Zhang Zhilin , Cui Rutao , Wang Pan , Miao Yuwen , He Yanlin
Published: December 2024

Cancer stem cells (CSCs) play crucial roles in tumor metastasis, therapy resistance, and immune evasion. Identifying and understanding the factors that regulate the stemness of tumor cells presents promising opportunities for developing effective therapeutic strategies. In this study on oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC), we confirmed the key role of KLF7 in maintaining the stemness of OSCC. Using chromatin immunoprecipitation sequencing and dual-luciferase assays, we identified ITGA2, a membrane receptor, as a key downstream gene regulated by KLF7 in the maintenance of stemness. Tumor sphere formation assays, flow cytometry analyses, and in vivo limiting dilution tumorigenicity evaluations demonstrated that knocking down ITGA2 significantly impaired stemness. When bound to its ECM ligand, type I collagen, ITGA2 activates several stemness-related pathways, including PI3K-AKT, MAPK, and Hippo. TC-I 15, which inhibits the ITGA2–collagen interaction, showed a synergistic anti-tumor effect when combined with cisplatin in both in vitro and xenograft models. In summary, we reveal that the KLF7/ITGA2 axis is a crucial modulator of stemness in OSCC. Our findings suggest that ITGA2 is a promising therapeutic target, offering a novel anti-CSC strategy.
Lost in the FOG: Growing Complexity in Financial Reporting – A Comparative Study
Authors: Lesmy Danny , Muchnik Lev , Mugerman Yevgeny
Published: December 2024

This study investigates the evolving readability of financial reporting by analyzing Item 7 of the 10-K reports over a 26-year period, utilizing a dataset of nearly 200,000 reports retrieved from SEC EDGAR filings. Our analysis reveals a significant decline in the readability of these reports over time, measured using the Fog Index. Specifically, we find that the number of years of schooling required to comprehend these texts increases by nearly one month each year, indicating a growing inaccessibility of financial reports for a substantial portion of the population. To contextualize these findings, we extend our analysis to include data from diverse financial corpora, encompassing almost 10 million documents. While most financial texts have shown a systematic increase in readability over the past decades, the Wall Street Journal emerges as a notable exception, exhibiting a moderate decline in readability—though at a much slower rate compared to Item 7. This study highlights the widening gap in financial text accessibility and underscores the need for more readable financial reporting.
JEL Classification: G10, G14
Tandem LTR-retrotransposon structures are common and highly polymorphic in plant genomes
Authors: Morales-Díaz Noemia , Sushko Svitlana , Campos-Domínguez Lucia , Kopalli Venkataramana , Golicz Agnieszka , Castanera Raul , Casacuberta Josep
Published: December 2024

Background
LTR-retrotransposons (LTR-RT) are a major component of plant genomes and are a major driver of genome evolution. Most LTR-RT copies in plant genomes are defective elements, found as truncated copies, nested insertions or being part of more complex structures. With the availability of highly contiguous plant genome assemblies based on long-read sequences it has become feasible the detailed characterization of these complex structures and the evaluation of their importance for plant genome evolution.
Results
The detailed analysis of two rice loci containing complex LTR-RT structures showed that they consist of tandem arrays of LTR copies sharing internal LTRs. Our analysis show that the tandems are not the result of a single insertion and not of the recombination of two independent LTR-RT elements. Our results suggest that gypsy elements may be more prone to form these structures. We show that these structures are highly polymorphic in rice and have therefore the potential to generate genetic and phenotypic variability. We developed a computational pipeline, IDENTAM, that scans genome sequences and identifies tandem LTR-RT candidates and detected 307 tandems in a pangenome built from the genomes of 75 accessions of cultivated and wild rice, showing that tandem LTR-RT structures are frequent in the rice genome and are highly polymorphic in the species. Running IDENTAM in the Arabidopsis, almond and cotton genomes showed that LTR-RT tandems are frequent in plant genomes of different size, complexity and ploidy levels. The complexity of differentiating intra-element variations at the nucleotide level among haplotypes is very high, and we found that graph-based pangenomic methodologies are appropriate to resolve these structures.
Conclusions
Our results show that LTR-RTs can form tandem arrays of elements. These structures are relatively abundant and highly polymorphic in rice and are widespread in the plant kingdom. Future studies will contribute to understand how these structures originate and if the variability that they generate has a functional impact.
The Influence of Cross-border E-commerce Comprehensive Pilot Zone on Corporate Financial Constraints in China
Authors: Wang Wenwen , Sun Muqing , Zhou Dong
Published: December 2024

Cross-border e-commerce (CBEC), as an emerging mode of cross-border trade, has become a new driver of economic growth, so the Chinese government has established 165 comprehensive pilot zones within which entrepreneurs are provided tax incentives, accelerated return, and exchange procedures for promoting development. This study utilized a longitudinal dataset of A-share-listed enterprises in China from 2011 to 2020 and exploited regional and temporal variations to identify the impacts of establishing the experimental zone on regional enterprises with DiD approach. Estimates show it has eased local enterprises' financial constraints by enhancing exports, digitalization, and industrial agglomeration. Heterogenous examination presents different effects across regions. Financing constraints are more effectively alleviated in eastern provinces, non-sub-provincial cities, and municipalities directly under the central government. This research highlights the significance of promoting CBEC through establishing pilot zones and the importance of policy designs in relaxing financial constraints, particularly for periods of economic recession.
Hemodynamic profile of cerebral arteries using transcranial Doppler in children with sickle cell disease compared to children without sickle cell disease : Prospective analytical study
Authors: Kinkunda Patrick Landu , Nkodila Aliocha Natuhoyila , Mutamba Joël Kashale , Yindula Orlin Mamona , Gangale Roger Izeidi , Mokulayanga Lilly , Manzombi Émeraude , Iyoto Djo Mbo-M , Makwanza Lys , Minouche Cynthia Bukumba , Yanda Stéphane Tongo , Molua Antoine Aundu , Mukaya Jean Tshibola
Published: December 2024

Background : Cerebral vasculopathy is a frequent and serious complication of major sickle cell syndromes. DTC makes it possible to detect stenoses of the main arteries of the base of the skull, before the occurrence of the stroke and to initiate therapies aimed at preventing the occurrence of the clinical accident. The objective of the study is to evaluate and compare the hemodynamic profile of the middle cerebral artery using transcranial Doppler in children with sickle cell disease compared to children without sickle cell disease.
Method : Prospective analytical study extended over a period of 6 months, i.e. from July 4, 2023 to December 28, 2023. The study population consisted of subjects followed for homozygous sickle cell disease SS and non-sickle cell subjects received at the above-mentioned centers, of all sexes combined, ages 2 to 16 years at most.
Results : We recruited 182 children (52.2% male and 47.8% female) divided into 70 children with sickle cell disease and 112 children without sickle cell disease. The mean VSM on the left was 85.0 ± 49.5 cm/s in sickle cell patients and 84.5 ± 17.8 cm/s in non-sickle cell patients. The mean VTD was 40.9 ± 31.2 cm/s in sickle cell patients and 44.0 ± 15.8 cm/s in non-sickle cell patients. The mean VMT was 53.22 ± 39.0 cm/s in sickle cell patients and 57.5 ± 16.3 cm/s in non-sickle cell patients.
Conclusion : The mean velocity of children with sickle cell disease was lower than that of non-sickle cell patients, and the peak systolic velocity of children with sickle cell disease was slightly higher than those of children without sickle cell disease.
Determinants of Self-Medication among Military Retirees in South-west Iran: A Protection Motivation Theory Approach
Authors: Hatamzadeh Nasser , Asadollahi Abdolrahim , Adlirad Fatemeh , Motalebi Samaneh , Yazdanparast Najmeh , Modhej Fatemeh , Khafaie Morteza Abdullatif
Published: December 2024

Introduction:
Self-medication is prevalent among the elderly population, posing significant health risks. In Iran, older adults frequently engage in self-medication due to various socio-economic, cultural, and health-related factors. This study aimed to examine the determinants of self-medication among older adults in Ahvaz, Iran, using the Protection Motivation Theory (PMT) framework.
Method
A cross-sectional study was conducted with 340 military retirees aged 60 and above in Ahvaz City. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire that gathered demographic information and assessed constructs from the Protection Motivation Theory (PMT), including self-efficacy, susceptibility, severity, response cost, and behavior. Additional factors, such as experience, barriers, and resonators, were also evaluated. Data analysis was performed using SPSS, with structural equation modeling conducted in JAMOVI.
Results
The mean age of participants was 67.05 years (SD = 7.00), with 72.4% males and 78.8% married individuals. Education was significantly correlated with self-medication prevention behaviors (ANOVA, p = 0.002), where higher education levels promoted more responsible medication management. Among PMT variables, response efficacy (mean = 17.06, SD = 3.66) and severity (mean = 6.72, SD = 1.90) showed the highest influence on behavior. The study also revealed a significant positive correlation between behavior and barriers (r = 0.536, p < 0.05), resonator (r = 0.692, p < 0.05), and response effectiveness (r = 0.45, p < 0.05). Gender differences were observed, with men scoring higher in perceived severity (p = 0.001, Cohen’s d = 0.432) and resonators (p < 0.001, Cohen’s d = 0.442). Furthermore, experience (p < 0.001, Cohen’s d = 0.443) was a significant factor affecting self-medication prevention behaviors.
Conclusion
Education and gender play a crucial role in shaping self-medication prevention behaviors among older adults. Higher education levels corresponded to better medication management, while gender-specific differences were evident in key PMT constructs. These findings provide critical insights for developing targeted interventions to promote safe self-medication practices and improve healthcare outcomes for older adults.
Trends and factors associated with changes in preterm birth at KCMC referral hospital in Northern Tanzania. A birth registry- based study
Authors: Abdul Seif , Mboya Innocent B. , Nanyaro Mary-Winnie Asifa , Mahande Michael J.
Published: December 2024

Background
Preterm birth is a public health concern. It is a leading cause of neonatal mortality and the second leading cause of under-five mortality globally. Despite the current efforts in addressing causes and risk of preterm birth, the burden remains unacceptably high, especially in developing countries. Furthermore, while the risk factors for preterm birth are widely known, it is unclear how these factors change over time and how they influence changes in proportions of preterm birth.
Methods
This was a secondary data analysis using maternally linked data from the Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Center Medical birth registry from 2000 to 2018 and included all recorded deliveries. Data were cleaned and analyzed using STATA software version 15. The trends of preterm birth proportions were computed using Joinpoint regression model. The multivariable Poisson decomposition model was used to determine factors associated with changes in proportions of preterm birth.
Results
The proportions of preterm birth increased significantly from 11.5% in 2000 to 21.2% in 2018, with the annual percentage change of 5%. Change in proportions of antenatal care visits significantly contributed to 82%, 24% and 53% of changes in proportions of preterm birth respectively in all three phases while other factors such as multiple pregnancies, preeclampsia, use of alcohol during pregnancy and young maternal age (≤ 19 years) each contributed to less than 10% of the change in proportions of preterm birth.
Conclusion
The trend in the proportions of preterm birth has gradually increased in Northern Tanzania. Factors that contributed to the change in proportions of preterm birth are changing with time. ANC visits reported to be the main contributors for changes in PTB proportions across the study period. Therefore coordinated efforts are needed to promote early initiation, adequacy of ANC visits among women for early identification and management of high-risk pregnancies.
Views and perceptions of anatomy educators on medical professionalism: a mixed-methods study
Authors: Dzetkuličová Veronika , Račanská Michaela , Brassett Cecilia , Kubíčková Lucie , Joukal Marek , Eltayb Amani
Published: December 2024

Background
Integrating medical professionalism into the core curriculum remains challenging for many institutions, particularly in today’s globalised context. This difficulty arises partly from the complexity and ambiguity surrounding the definition of medical professionalism. Additionally, it is crucial to consider the local and global context and define professionalism within that cultural framework. Thus, the aim of this study is to explore the knowledge and perceptions of anatomy educators from central European universities (Zagreb, Masaryk and Pécs) and the University of Cambridge on medical professionalism through the lens of local context and culture.
Methods
A cross-sectional study was developed, and data were collected utilising a survey tool conducted by the Erasmus+ Strategic Partnership project, LEANbody (Project number: 2021-1-HU01-KA220-HED-000027542). The collected data were analysed both qualitatively and quantitatively. Purposeful sampling was used for including the study participants (n=16) who were anatomy educators from above mentioned institutions.
Results
The educators were asked to define “professionalism”. Summative content analysis of their answers uncovered six recurring sets of keywords. Latent content analysis was used to analyse educators’ responses on the distinction between professional values and professional behaviours, three categories and nine subcategories emerged as part of one overarching theme ‘The Interplay between Professional Values and Behaviours in Healthcare’. A self-reflecting framework was developed to focus on the connection between professional values and professional behaviour in the healthcare context. Almost 75 % (n=12) agreed that there are cross-cultural differences in the definition of medical professionalism. Most educators felt that students’ multicultural backgrounds, religious beliefs, values, sex and gender significantly influenced their approach to anatomical dissection. Regarding the existence of a governing body that would determine guidelines for medical professionalism, only the participants from the University of Cambridge responded in the affirmative.
Conclusions
This study showed that there would appear to be an urgent need for anatomy educators in several central European universities to enhance their knowledge on professionalism, discuss and agree on creating common terminology through the lens of European context and culture. This improves the understanding and practice of medical professionalism along with its application to anatomy curriculum development and teaching practices.
Examining the determinants of Antenatal care quality in Ghana: Evidence from a Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey
Authors: Yabila Solomon , Gmayinaam Vincent Uwumboriyhie , Amenu Johnpaul , Dzando Gideon , Okyere Eunice
Published: December 2024

Background
Antenatal care services play a pivotal role in ensuring the well-being of pregnant women and their babies. It provides an opportunity for healthcare professionals to deliver essential support, care, and information during pregnancy. As many countries strive to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals, the need for quality antenatal services becomes imperative to reduce maternal and infant mortality. Despite this, very little is known about the factors influencing the quality of services in Ghana.
Methods
The study was a quantitative cross-sectional study that used nationally representative data from the Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey. The total sample of women who had live births 5 years before the data collection period was 3466. The data was analyzed using SPSS 26.0. Univariate, bivariate, and binary logistic regression models were used, with P-value = 0.05 at a 95% confidence Interval.
Results
The results indicate that the majority of the respondents 78% received high-quality antenatal care. The quality of antenatal care was predicted by region of residence, marital status, parity, number of antenatal care visits, and early antenatal care initiation.
Conclusion
While the coverage of antenatal care is at its peak, the quality is less. There is a need to initiate public health campaigns and community-based initiatives to ensure women receive quality antenatal care services.
High-Speed Graphene-based Sub-Terahertz Receivers enabling Wireless Communications for 6G and Beyond
Authors: Koppens Frank , Soundarapandian Karuppasamy , Castilla Sebastián , Koepfli Stefan , Marconi Simone , Kulmer Laurenz , Vangelidis Ioannis , Bastida Ronny de la , Rongione Enzo , Tongay Seth , Watanabe Kenji , Taniguchi Takashi , Lidorikis Elefteris , Tielrooij Klaas-Jan , Leuthold Juerg
Published: December 2024

In recent years, the telecommunications field has experienced an unparalleled proliferation of wireless data traffic. Innovative solutions are imperative to circumvent the inherent limitations of the current technology, in particular in terms of capacity. Carrier frequencies in the sub-terahertz (sub-THz) range (~0.2-0.3 THz) can deliver increased capacity and low attenuation for short-range wireless applications. Here, we demonstrate a direct, passive and compact sub-THz receiver based on graphene, which outperforms state-of-the-art sub-THz receivers. These graphene-based receivers offer a cost-effective, CMOS-compatible, small-footprint solution that can fulfill the size, weight, and power consumption (SWaP) requirements of 6G technologies. We exploit a sub-THz cavity, comprising an antenna and a back mirror, placed in the vicinity of the graphene channel to overcome the low inherent absorption in graphene and the mismatch between the areas of the photoactive region and the incident radiation, which becomes extreme in the sub-THz range. The graphene receivers achieve a multigigabit per second data rate with a maximum distance of ~3 m from the transmitter, a setup-limited 3 dB bandwidth of 40 GHz, and a high responsivity of 0.16 A/W, enabling applications such as chip-to-chip communication and close proximity device-to-device communication.
Integrated Digital Health Technologies in Multimorbidity Management: Mechanisms, Outcomes, Challenges, and Strategies
Authors: Endalamaw Aklilu , Zewdie Anteneh , Wolka Eskinder , Assefa Yibeltal
Published: December 2024

Introduction: Multimorbidity amplifies healthcare burdens due to the intricate requirements of patients and the pathophysiological complexities of multiple diseases. To address this, digital health technologies (DHTs) play a crucial role in effective healthcare delivery, requiring comprehensive evidence on their applications in managing multimorbidity. Therefore, this scoping review aims to identify various types of DHTs, explore their mechanisms, and emphasize the significance of utilizing DHTs within the context of multimorbidity.
Methods: This scoping review follows the Preferred Reporting Items for Scoping Reviews guidelines. PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, EMBASE, and Google Scholar were used to search articles. Data extraction focused on study characteristics, types of health technologies, mechanisms, outcomes, challenges, and facilitators. Results were presented using figures, tables, and texts. Thematic analysis was employed to describe mechanisms, impacts, challenges, and strategies related to DHTs in managing multimorbidity.
Results: Digital health technology encompasses smartphone apps, wearable devices, and platforms for remote healthcare (telehealth). These technologies work through care coordination, collaboration, communication, self-management, remote monitoring, health data management, and tele-referrals. Digital health technologies improved quality of care and life, cost efficiency, acceptability of care, collaboration, streamlined healthcare delivery, reduced workload, and bridging knowledge gaps. Patients’ and healthcare providers’ resistance and skills, lack of support (technical, financial, and infrastructure), and ethical concerns (e.g., privacy) barred DHTs implementation. Arranging organization, providing technical support, employing care coordination strategies, enhancing acceptability, deploying appropriate technology, considering patient needs, and adhering with ethical principles facilitate DHTs implementation.
Conclusions: Digital health technology holds significant promise in improving care for individuals with multimorbidity by enhancing coordination, self-management, and monitoring. Successful implementation requires addressing challenges such as patient resistance and infrastructure limitations through targeted strategies and investments. It is also essential to consider usability, privacy, and trustworthiness when adopting these tools.
Trophic Dynamics and Metabolic Pathways in Host-Parasite Interactions: A Nitrogen Isotope Analysis of Amino Acids in Multiple Tissues
Authors: Khaliq Shaista , Nachev Milen , Riekenberg Philip M. , Jochmann Maik A. , Vosough Maryam , Franke Frederik , Scharsack Jörn P. , Kurtz Joachim , Sures Bernd , Meer Marcel T.J. van der , Schmidt Torsten C.
Published: December 2024

Trophic interactions are crucial for understanding food web complexity and energy flow in ecosystems. Including parasites in these analyses can alter dynamics and challenge ecological assumptions. Compound-specific isotope analysis (CSIA) offers greater precision than bulk SIA by analyzing individual amino acids, providing deeper insights into nutrient exchange and metabolism in host-parasite systems. In this study, we conducted a 120-day controlled feeding experiment to investigate parasite metabolic pathways, host-parasite trophic dynamics, and trophic fractionation between infected and uninfected sticklebacks. Nitrogen isotope composition (δ15N) was measured in host (Gasterosteus aculeatus) liver and muscle tissues, and its parasite (Schistocephalus solidus). Parasite serine δ15N values were higher by 4.4 ± 2.4‰ compared to host liver, indicating a strong metabolic link. Lower proline concentrations and increased alanine δ15N values (5‰) indicate support of parasite growth through conversion to hydroxyproline and increased gluconeogenesis. The trophic position difference between parasite and host tissues was < 0.5, suggesting direct assimilation of host-derived products. Infected host tissues exhibited ~ 5‰ increase in glycine δ15N over time compared to control tissues, likely reflecting the host’s increased metabolic demand for immune support during infection. This study highlights the complex metabolic interactions in host-parasite systems.
AI as a Research Proxy: Navigating the New Frontier of Social Science Inquiry through Language Models
Authors: Rafikova Antonina , Voronin Anatoly
Published: December 2024

As artificial intelligence transforms the landscape of social science research, large language models (LLMs) like ChatGPT present both unprecedented opportunities and unprecedented challenges. This study explores the application of ChatGPT as "surrogates" or computational substitutes for human participants in sociological and socio-psychological research. By simulating responses to complex socio-cultural issues, we investigate how well ChatGPT can replicate human attitudes toward immigration, gender stereotypes, and LGB parenting attitudes. We utilized a general simulation model employing detailed demographic prompts to generate synthetic participant responses, assessing their accuracy and political biases. Our findings reveal a consistent liberal bias in ChatGPT outputs. The results demonstrate ChatGPT’s potential to simulate diverse human behaviors while highlighting their limitations in explanatory power and susceptibility to existing societal biases. This research underscores the necessity for critical evaluation of AI-generated data in social science contexts and calls for further refinement of LLM methodologies.