bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Convective stability of the critical waves of an FKPP-type model for self-organized growth
Authors: Kreten Florian
Published: February 2025

We construct the traveling wave solutions of an FKPP growth process of two densities of particles, and prove that the critical traveling waves are locally stable in a space where the perturbations can grow exponentially at the back of the wave. The considered reaction–diffusion system was introduced by Hannezo et al. (Cell 171(1):242–255, 2017) in the context of branching morphogenesis: active, branching particles accumulate inactive particles, which do not react. Thus, the system features a continuum of steady state solutions, complicating the analysis. We adopt a result by Faye and Holzer (J Differ Equ 269(9):6559–6601, 2020) for proving the stability of the critical traveling waves, and modify the semi-group estimates to spaces with unbounded weights. We use a Feynman–Kac formula to get an exponential a priori estimate for the tail of the PDE, a novel and simple approach.
Global Bifurcations Organizing Weak Chimeras in Three Symmetrically Coupled Kuramoto Oscillators with Inertia
Authors: Ashwin Peter , Bick Christian
Published: February 2025

Frequency desynchronized attractors cannot appear in identically coupled symmetric phase oscillators because “overtaking" of phases cannot occur. This restriction no longer applies for more general identically coupled oscillators. Hence, it is interesting to understand precisely how frequency synchrony is lost and how invariant sets such as attracting weak chimeras are generated at torus breakup, where the phase description breaks down. Maistrenko et al (2016) found numerical evidence of an organizing center for weak chimeras in a system of

$$N=3$$

N
=
3

coupled identical Kuramoto oscillators with inertia. This paper identifies this organizing center and shows that it corresponds to a particular type of non-transverse heteroclinic bifurcation that is generic in the context of symmetry. At this codimension two bifurcation there is a splitting of connecting orbits between the in-phase (fully synchronized) state. This generates a wide variety of associated bifurcations to weak chimeras. We further highlight a second organizing center associated with a codimension two symmetry-breaking heteroclinic connection.
Darkening of metal surfaces by nanosecond pulsed laser ablation
Authors: Hopp Béla , Mándity Lídia , Homik Zsolt , Sámi Márton , Gera Tamás , Kopniczky Judit , Budai Judit , Kondász Bence , Szamosvölgyi Ákos , Ajtai Tibor , Hodovány Szabolcs , Smausz Tamás
Published: February 2025

We applied nanosecond pulsed laser ablation to reduce the reflectivity of metal surfaces. The change in reflectivity was studied at different laser scanning pitches (i.e., pulse number densities) and the trends obtained were correlated with the morphological and compositional changes induced by the ablation. In the case of copper, we found that it wasn’t the laser etching itself that caused the darkening of the surface, but rather the nanoclusters and nanoparticles produced in the cooling ablation plume as they fell back onto the surface. Our model calculations confirmed the role of micro- and nanostructures and the presence of copper oxides in reducing the reflectivity of ablated copper.
Risk factors for blood transfusion in patients undergoing hysterectomy for stage I endometrial cancer
Authors: Yousif Abdelrahman , Mohamed Hatem S. , Woodham Anna , Elchouemi Mohanad , Chefetz IIana
Published: February 2025

Purpose

To highlight the risk factors contributing to blood transfusion among patients undergoing surgical intervention for Stage I Endometrial Cancer (EC).

Method

Using the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database, a nationally validated database dedicated to improving surgical care, females over the age of 18 who underwent surgery for EC stage I between the years 2016–2022 were queried. The cohort was then characterized based on those who received blood transfusion 72 h postoperatively.

Results

27,183 patients with endometrial cancer who received surgical management were identified. 668 (2.5%) of those patients received blood transfusions. A multivariate logistic model found that a medical factor low preoperative Hct % (aOR 22.4, 95% CI[17.7, 28.3]; p < 0.001) and surgical factors such as 180 min or more of operative time (aOR 3.38, 95% CI[2.77, 4.14]; p < 0.001), larger uteri of 250–500 g (aOR 1.93, 95% CI[1.48, 2.49]; p < 0.001) and ≥ 500 g (aOR 2.35, 95% CI[1.77, 3.12]; p < 0.001), and abdominal approach compared to laparoscopic (aOR 6.36,95% CI[4.95, 8.18]; p < 0.001) were significantly associated with receiving blood transfusion.

Conclusion

Many significant risk factors were found to be associated with blood transfusions in patients with Stage I endometrial cancer. These findings allow surgeons to proactively prepare adequate measures for patients who may require blood transfusions when they undergo surgery for endometrial cancer.
Is robotic pancreaticoduodenectomy non-inferior to open pancreaticoduodenectomy in patients with high PD-ROBOSCORE?
Authors: Gonzalez-Abos Carolina , Landi Filippo , Lorenzo Claudia , Rey Samuel , Salgado Francisco , Ausania Fabio
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Robotic pancreaticoduodenectomy (RPD) is associated with technical challenges that may result in intraoperative and postoperative complications. Some previous reports and the recently published PD-ROBOSCORE describe several factors associated with an increased difficulty. The aim of this study is to investigate whether difficult RPD patients have a better outcome when operated by open approach (OPD).

Methods

All patients undergoing robotic and open PD from January 2020 to June 2024 with high PD-ROBOSCORE were included. Preoperative pancreatitis and/or cholangitis, and tumor contact with PV-SMV were also analysed. Outcomes of RPD vs OPD were compared.

Results

45 RPD and 57 OPD patients with high PD-ROBOSCORE were considered for this study. Median age was 68.5 years (68 RPD vs 65 OPD; p = 0.25), median BMI was 27 kg/m2 (27 RPD vs 28 OPD; p = 0.13), 65.6% of patients were male (60.0% RPD vs 70.2% OPD; p = 0.15) and median PD-ROBOSCORE was 10 (10 RPD vs 9 OPD, p = 0.145). POPF occurred in 37.2% (40.0% RPD vs 35.1% OPD; p = 0.668), CD ≥ 3 was 25.4% (28.8% RPD vs 22.8% OPD; p = 0.477), median CCI was 20.9 (20.5 RPD vs 20.9 OPD; p = 0.752), reoperation rate was 17.6% (15.5% RPD vs 19.3% OPD; p = 0.496). Hospital stay was 15 days (16 RPD vs 13 OPD; p = 0.583). Of patients developing POPF; 76.3% had soft pancreas, 84.2% had pancreatic duct ≤ 2 mm and 97.2% had BMI ≥ 25.

Conclusion

RPD seems to be non-inferior to OPD in patients with increased technical complexity. Most of these complications are related to fistula risk factors (high BMI, soft pancreas and small pancreatic duct) and not directly related with other technical difficulty factors.
Disease-Management-Programm (DMP) für die periphere arterielle Verschlusskrankheit (PAVK) als Strategie zur Optimierung der ambulanten Versorgung
Authors: Meier Julia
Published: February 2025

Hintergrund

Die periphere arterielle Verschlusserkrankung (PAVK) ist eine chronische Erkrankung mit steigenden Behandlungs- und Folgekosten. Die individuelle Situation der Betroffenen und die Nutzung konservativer Therapieoptionen sind entscheidend für die Versorgung. Im Gegensatz zu Koronarer Herzerkrankung (KHK) und Diabetes mellitus gibt es für PAVK bislang kein eigenständiges Disease-Management-Programm (DMP). Es bleibt unklar, ob PAVK die Kriterien für ein solches Programm erfüllt.

Ziele der Arbeit

Untersuchung der aktuellen Versorgungsqualität von Patientinnen und Patienten mit PAVK sowie die Entwicklung eines eigenständigen DMP zur Optimierung der ambulanten Versorgung.

Material und Methoden

Mittels Literaturrecherche in PubMed und Cochrane Library wurden 42 Artikel identifiziert, von denen 12 relevante Studien ausgewertet wurden. Ergänzend wurden weitere aktuelle Artikel in ein narratives Review aufgenommen. Eine Onlineumfrage über LinkedIn erreichte 97 Personen aus der ambulanten Versorgung, von denen 41 teilnahmen. Basierend auf diesen Ergebnissen und in Analogie zum DMP für Diabetes mellitus Typ II wurde ein Konzept für ein DMP für PAVK entwickelt.

Ergebnisse

Die Literatur weist auf Optimierungspotenzial und Unterversorgung, insbesondere bei Frauen, hin. Rund 70 % der teilnehmenden Personen der Onlineumfrage befürworteten regelmäßige Screenings; 92,2 % hielten die ABI-Messung für sinnvoll. Maßnahmen zur Raucherentwöhnung wurden von 90 % als wichtig erachtet, während die Zufriedenheit mit aktuellen Angeboten gering war. Auch die Verfügbarkeit von Gefäßsportgruppen wurde von 51,2 % kritisiert. Insgesamt hielten 75,6 % ein eigenständiges DMP für PAVK für sinnvoll.

Schlussfolgerung

Die Ergebnisse zeigen, dass ein eigenständiges DMP für PAVK zur Optimierung der ambulanten Versorgung sinnvoll sein kann. Eine Bewertung nach G‑BA- und SGB-V-Kriterien fiel positiv aus.
Short-term outcomes in mesh versus suture-only treatment of burst abdomen: a case-series from a university hospital
Authors: Jensen Thomas Korgaard , Kvist Madeline , Damkjær Merete Berthu , Burcharth Jakob
Published: February 2025

Purpose

Surgery for a burst abdomen after midline laparotomy is associated with later incisional hernia formation. Accommodating prophylactic measures, notably mesh augmentation, are of interest. However, data regarding safety and outcomes are scarce. This study aimed to evaluate the short-term risk profile of mesh prophylaxis in the context of a burst abdomen.

Methods

This is a single-center prospective study of patients suffering from burst abdomen from 2021 to 2023. A treatment protocol for the management of burst abdomen was introduced, including the synthetic, partially absorbable onlay mesh. Adult patients (≥ 18 years) with a life expectancy of > 1 year with no plans of future pregnancies were recommended to be treated with a prophylactic mesh. In this analysis, adult patients were included if they suffered from a burst abdomen after elective or emergency laparotomy. The study evaluates short-term outcomes, including 90-day wound complications, length of stay, and mortality.

Results

Sixty-seven patients fulfilled the inclusion criteria and underwent treatment for a burst abdomen during the study period. Thirty-eight patients were treated with a suture-only technique, and 29 patients were supplemented with a mesh. 13 of 14 observed wound complications in the mesh group were of mild degree (Clavien Dindo 1-3b), while one patient (3%) needed mesh-explantation. The 90-day mortality rate was 21% and comparable between suture-only and mesh techniques.

Conclusion

Mesh augmentation in surgery for a burst abdomen seems safe in well-selected patients at 90 days follow-up. Long-term data on the prophylactic effect on hernia development is needed.
Regional distribution of carbapenemase-producing Acinetobacter baumannii isolates in southern Spain (Andalusia)
Authors: Fernández-Cuenca Felipe , Rodríguez-Pallares Salud , López-Cerero Lorena , Gutiérrez-Fernández José , Bautista María Fe , Sánchez Gómez Juan Antonio , Sánchez-Yebra Romera Waldo , Delgado Mercedes , Recacha Esther , Pascual Alvaro
Published: February 2025

Objectives

This is the first study conducted in southern Spain to determine i) the population structure (PS) of carbapenem-resistant (CR) Acinetobacter baumannii isolates by multilocus sequencing typing (MLST) and core genome MLST (cgMLST) and ii) the association between the sequence type ST and the bla
OXA-51 variant, capsule polysaccharide locus (KL) and lipooligosaccharide outer core locus (OCL) types.

Methods

Of 336 isolates submitted to the Andalusian reference laboratory (PIRASOA; December 2017–2020), 73 were subjected to WGS (MiSeq). The following analyses were performed: bacterial identification (ribosomal MLST), carbapenemase gene detection (Resfinder 4.0), PS delineation (MLST by MLSTfinder 2.0 and cgMLST by Ridom SeqSphere+), and KL types and OCL types (Kaptive tool).

Results

The carbapenemases detected were bla
OXA-23 (n = 41), bla
OXA-58 (n = 26), bla
OXA-24 (n = 5), bla
OXA-72 (n = 1) and bla
NDM-1 (n = 2). The PS revealed one major ST2 clone (n = 54) and seven minor ST clones by MLST, and 41 lineages by cgMLST. Thirty-five lineages were detected only in a single hospital whereas five lineages were observed in several hospitals and provinces. bla
OXA-66 was the most frequent bla
OXA-51 variant and was mainly associated with the ST2 clone. Eleven KL types and 3 OCL types were assigned, with KL2 (n = 27), KL7 (n = 16) and OCL1 being the most frequent.

Conclusions

The PS of CR A. baumannii in Andalusia is characterized by a dominant ST2/bla
OXA-23 clone and several lineages, showing local spread of lineages in most hospitals, and intercenter or interregional spread of a few lineages. Single-locus bla
OXA-51-like typing and KL typing may be useful as complementary preliminary typing tool.
Can Business Ethics Courses Be Effective? A Quasi-Experimental Mixed-Methods Study of a Cooperative-Learning Approach in Higher Education
Authors: Martini Mattia , Cavenago Dario , Carminati Monica
Published: February 2025

This study assesses the effectiveness of an elective course in business ethics designed around a cooperative-learning approach and explores how this pedagogical method supports graduate students in practising ethical attitudes and behaviours. The research employs a mixed-method approach, integrating a quasi-experimental pre- and post-test study with an in-depth qualitative study based on focus groups. The quantitative study investigates the effectiveness of a business ethics course delivered within a university master’s program in improving various ethical outcomes, including moral efficacy, moral sensitivity, and moral motivation. In contrast, the focus groups explore how the cooperative-learning approach adopted within the course enhances the student’s learning process and the overall effectiveness of the course. The quantitative results demonstrate that the business ethics course effectively develops the students’ moral efficacy and moral motivation but not their moral sensitivity. The qualitative results indicated that the cooperative-learning approach contributes to achieving positive outcomes by favouring the motivational, relational, and cognitive dimensions of the student’s learning processes. The study contributes to the literature on business ethics education by providing a robust understanding of the effectiveness of business ethics programs in higher education and highlighting the role of the cooperative-learning pedagogical approach in developing graduate students’ ethical knowledge, skills, and behaviours. In addition, it showed that, despite the complexity of ethics, adopting a cooperative-learning approach in the business ethics course design improves the ability of future employees and managers to take responsibility for individual and collective actions.
The Role of Emotion Regulation in Distinct Measures of Emotional Resilience
Authors: Razak Hannah A. , MacLeod Colin , Rudaizky Daniel , Notebaert Lies
Published: February 2025

Background

Research suggests that emotion regulation plays a critical role in emotional resilience, however due to inconsistencies with how emotional resilience has been operationalised, the exact nature of this relationship remains relatively unexplored. We examined two hypotheses across three distinct operationalisations: outcome-based, transient, and trait-based, recognising resilience as an outcome, a transient dynamic construct, and a perceived trait, respectively. Specifically, whether (1) a greater tendency to choose reappraisal relative to distraction or (2) a greater tendency to choose reappraisal aligned with the emotion regulation asymmetry phenomenon (i.e., reappraisal for low-intensity stimuli and distraction for high-intensity stimuli), was associated with greater emotional resilience, and whether these relationships were partially accounted for by effective downregulation.

Methods

Young undergraduate adults (final n = 113) attended an experimental session where each measure of emotional resilience was obtained. The outcome-based was measured using a residual approach, the transient measure through the degree of emotional recovery following exposure to a standardised stressor task in the lab and the trait-based measure using the Brief Resilience Scale. In a second session, participants viewed high and low intensity images and chose between reappraisal and distraction to downregulate negative emotions elicited by these stimuli. In some trials, participants were instructed to use either strategy. The effectiveness of these downregulation attempts was measured.

Results

A greater tendency to choose reappraisal over distraction, was associated with greater transient and trait-based measures, but not with the outcome-based measure. Reappraisal aligned to the emotion regulation asymmetry phenomenon was not related to emotional resilience.

Conclusions

Our findings are consistent with theory stating that tendency to choose reappraisal over distraction may contribute to emotional resilience. However, the differential associations evident suggest different mechanisms may relate to distinct operationalisations of this construct. Critically, the cross-sectional design of the current study limits inferences of causality and directionality. Future work replicating and extending on these findings across the distinct operationalisations are warranted.
Spatial-temporal seismicity analysis using TSOM and variational density peak clustering
Authors: Sharma Ashish , Nanda Satyasai Jagannth
Published: February 2025

Seismicity de-clustering is a crucial step in earthquake catalog analysis, essential for understanding earthquake patterns and assessing seismic hazards. Seismicity de-clustering is challenging due to complex geological structures, high spatial-temporal correlation between events, and large amounts of noise. This study proposes an innovative two-stage approach for spatial zone identification and seismicity de-clustering by leveraging the topological self-organizing map (TSOM) method and the variational density peak clustering (VDPC) algorithm. In the first stage, the TSOM method is employed with split-and-merge algorithm to identify spatial interactions in space domain to uncover intricate spatial relationships among earthquake events in two-dimensional space, allowing the effective separation of distinct seismic zones. In the second stage, temporal separation is performed using the VDPC algorithm to distinguish mainshocks from aftershocks further within each seismic zone. This two-stage model enhances the precision of seismicity de-clustering and provides a comprehensive understanding of earthquake catalog dynamics. The results obtained from the proposed model outperform the other benchmark de-clustering algorithms, validated using various statistical tests, including the coefficient of variation, m-Morisita index, cumulative plot,

$$\lambda$$

λ

-plot and nearest neighbor distance. This innovative methodology enhances our comprehension of seismicity patterns, facilitates more accurate seismic hazard assessment, and ultimately contributes to improved earthquake preparedness in regions susceptible to seismic activity.
Design pattern recognition: a study of large language models
Authors: Pandey Sushant Kumar , Chand Sivajeet , Horkoff Jennifer , Staron Miroslaw , Ochodek Miroslaw , Durisic Darko
Published: February 2025

Context

As Software Engineering (SE) practices evolve due to extensive increases in software size and complexity, the importance of tools to analyze and understand source code grows significantly.

Objective

This study aims to evaluate the abilities of Large Language Models (LLMs) in identifying DPs in source code, which can facilitate the development of better Design Pattern Recognition (DPR) tools. We compare the effectiveness of different LLMs in capturing semantic information relevant to the DPR task.

Methods

We studied Gang of Four (GoF) DPs from the P-MARt repository of curated Java projects. State-of-the-art language models, including Code2Vec, CodeBERT, CodeGPT, CodeT5, and RoBERTa, are used to generate embeddings from source code. These embeddings are then used for DPR via a k-nearest neighbors prediction. Precision, recall, and F1-score metrics are computed to evaluate performance.

Results

RoBERTa is the top performer, followed by CodeGPT and CodeBERT, which showed mean F1 Scores of 0.91, 0.79, and 0.77, respectively. The results show that LLMs without explicit pre-training can effectively store semantics and syntactic information, which can be used in building better DPR tools.

Conclusion

The performance of LLMs in DPR is comparable to existing state-of-the-art methods but with less effort in identifying pattern-specific rules and pre-training. Factors influencing prediction performance in Java files/programs are analyzed. These findings can advance software engineering practices and show the importance and abilities of LLMs for effective DPR in source code.
Block mapping class groups and their finiteness properties
Authors: Aramayona J. , Aroca J. , Cumplido M. , Skipper R. , Wu X.
Published: February 2025

Given

$$g \in \mathbb N \cup \{0, \infty \}$$

g
∈
N
∪
{
0
,
∞
}

, let

$$\Sigma _g$$

Σ
g

denote the closed surface of genus g with a Cantor set removed, if

$$g<\infty $$

g
<
∞

; or the blooming Cantor tree, when

$$g= \infty $$

g
=
∞

. We construct a family

$$\mathfrak B(H)$$

B
(
H
)

of subgroups of

$${{\,\textrm{Map}\,}}(\Sigma _g)$$

Map

(

Σ
g

)

whose elements preserve a block decomposition of

$$\Sigma _g$$

Σ
g

, and eventually like act like an element of H, where H is a prescribed subgroup of the mapping class group of the block. The group

$$\mathfrak B(H)$$

B
(
H
)

surjects onto an appropriate symmetric Thompson group of Farley–Hughes; in particular, it answers positively. Our main result asserts that

$$\mathfrak B(H)$$

B
(
H
)

is of type

$$F_n$$

F
n

if and only if H is. As a consequence, for every

$$g\in \mathbb N \cup \{0, \infty \}$$

g
∈
N
∪
{
0
,
∞
}

and every

$$n\ge 1$$

n
≥
1

, we construct a subgroup

$$G <{{\,\textrm{Map}\,}}(\Sigma _g)$$

G
<

Map

(

Σ
g

)

that is of type

$$F_n$$

F
n

but not of type

$$F_{n+1}$$

F

n
+
1

, and which contains the mapping class group of every compact surface of genus

$$\le g$$

≤
g

and with non-empty boundary.
Asilomar, Gene Cloning’s Origins, and Its Commercial Fate
Authors: Yi Doogab
Published: February 2025

This paper delves into the historical development of recombinant DNA technology, examining the pivotal controversies surrounding public health and commercialization that emerged with the prospect of gene cloning in the 1970s. The analysis will focus on the recombinant DNA experiments planned, conducted, and aborted by Janet Mertz and John Morrow, two graduate students at Paul Berg’s Laboratory at Stanford University. Their experiments, as I show, served as catalysts for both fear and excitement within the biomedical research community and beyond. This paper begins by reconstructing in some respects Mertz’s and Morrow’s investigative pathways, their contributions to technical developments in gene cloning, and their youthful perspectives on genetic engineering. While Mertz’s initial experimental plan led to the establishment of the Asilomar I Conference in 1973, Morrow’s subsequent cloning experiment, in collaboration with Stanley Cohen and Herbert Boyer, played a crucial role in shifting scientific and public sentiments around recombinant DNA, intensifying the tension between safety concerns and commercial aspirations before, during, and especially after the more famous Asilomar II Conference of 1975. The latter part of this paper briefly examines the commercial fate of early gene cloning within the context of the complex interplay between scientific advancements, societal and public health concerns, and proprietary interests that culminated in Genentech’s cloning of the artificial insulin gene. This paper concludes by discussing how concerns about responsible research practices and biosafety regulation were by the late 1970s increasingly overshadowed by critiques concerning the impact of regulations and academic patenting on scientific competition and laboratory culture.
The role of anterior segment optical coherence tomography in post-cataract surgery Descemet membrane detachment
Authors: Ruggeri Francesco , Rullo Daria , Maugliani Elisa , Trotta Nicola , Ciancimino Chiara , Di Pippo Mariachiara , Guglielmelli Fabio , Abdolrahimzadeh Solmaz
Published: February 2025

This review seeks to evaluate anterior segment optical coherence tomography (AS-OCT) in the diagnostic procedure and management of Descemet’s membrane detachment (DMD) in cataract surgery. DMD may present diagnostic challenges, particularly in pronounced corneal edema where traditional methods such as slit lamp biomicroscopy may be inadequate in evaluating the corneal layers. The role of AS-OCT in providing high-resolution images in the preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative phases of cataract surgery is analyzed with a focus on its role in the early diagnosis of DMD and in evaluating the extent, morphology, and topographic localization of DMD allowing for immediate intervention during surgery and precise pneumodescemetopexy procedures where conservative treatment has failed. This review explores the integration of AS-OCT into the standard perioperative diagnostic workflow, highlighting its potential role in the prevention, accurate diagnosis, and prompt management of DMD, a complication of cataract surgery that, while low in incidence, can be highly disruptive when it occurs. The emerging role of artificial intelligence (AI) in AS-OCT analysis of anterior segment conditions and surgical procedures is discussed, though refinement of AI algorithms is warranted.
Shining Light on Dark Matter: Advancing Functional Analysis of Obsidian Tools with Confocal Scanning Microscopy
Authors: Pichon Fiona , Ibáñez Estevez Juan José , Astruc Laurence , Gassin Bernard , Rodríguez Rodríguez Amelia , Lugliè Carlo
Published: February 2025

Over the past decade, confocal microscopy has increasingly been employed to examine changes in stone tool surfaces and has proven to be an accurate technique for quantifying use-wear texture. Promising results have emerged from characterizing Polish formation on experimental and archaeological flint tools. Recent studies also highlighted the potential of confocal microscopy for analyzing tools made from reflective materials, such as quartzite. In this paper, we investigate the capability of confocal microscopy to discriminate use-wear on obsidian quantitatively. We examine whether confocal microscopy and 3D texture analysis can correctly classify several worked materials that are challenging to differentiate using the optical standard method of use-wear analysis. For cutting activities, we include butchery, de-skinning a fresh hide from grease and meaty tissues, cutting tanned leather, harvesting domestic ripe cereals, harvesting semi-green wild cereals, and sawing wet limestone. As for scraping activities, we explore discriminating differences among tools used for working dry hide, dry antler, soaked antler, fresh bone, softwood, fresh reeds, and wet limestone. Our results demonstrate that these worked materials can be confidently identified in experimental tools. While other relevant factors affecting use-wear texture, such as the intensity of use or post-depositional alterations, need to be controlled before employing the method on archaeological materials, our research suggests that the quantitative approach can enhance the standard method of use-wear analysis, providing unprecedented precision for identifying worked materials in obsidian tools.
Novel and Highly Efficient Antibacterial PLA Composites Prepared with Liquidambar Orientalis Oil and Ag@g-C3N4 Nanocomposite
Authors: Durmus Zehra , Köferstein Roberto , Özgen Arzu , Lindenberg Titus , Maijenburg A. Wouter , Durmus Ali
Published: February 2025

Flexible PLA-based antibacterial composite films were prepared using a natural oil, Liquidambar orientalis, as bio-based plasticizer, and 2D graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4) decorated with Ag nanoparticles with a particle size of 10–30 nm as antibacterial agent (Ag@g-C3N4). This structurally designed antibacterial nanocomposite was synthesized with the preparation of g-C3N4 by high-temperature annealing followed by the reduction of silver salt onto g-C3N4. The Ag@g-C3N4 nanocomposite exhibited a surface area value of 18 g/m2. PLA/Ag@g-C3N4 composite films were prepared with solution casting method by introducing 30 phr of L. orientalis oil and various amounts (1, 2 and 4 phr) of Ag@g-C3N4. It was found that 30 phr of L. orientalis oil successfully plasticized the PLA and reduced its glass transition temperature from 60 °C to 43 °C and its melting temperature more than 10 °C by reducing the strong interactions and hydrogen bonds between PLA chains. L. orientalis oil also acted as a dispersion agent for the Ag@g-C3N4 nanocomposite particles and significantly improved their antibacterial activity. Antibacterial tests performed using Gram-positive bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923) and Gram-negative bacteria (Escherichia coli ATCC 25922 and Acinetobacter baumannii ATCC BAA 747) indicated that introducing a small amount of 2D Ag@g-C3N4 nanocomposite particles into PLA yielded superior antibacterial activity.
A co-evolutionary knowledge exchange network for the entrepreneurial valorization of academic research: evidence from Italy
Authors: Paniccia Paola M. A. , Baiocco Silvia , Scafarto Francesco
Published: February 2025

This paper aims to better understand the complex interplay and co-shaping of relationships among quadruple helix actors, i.e. universities, firms, institutions, and civil society, underlying the dynamics of knowledge exchange networks for the entrepreneurial valorization of academic research, and related impacts. A longitudinal co-evolutionary analysis of a successful case study regarding a network among quadruple helix actors operating in Italy (Start Cup Lazio) has been conducted by adopting participatory action research. The co-evolutionary lens adopted in the paper looks at the relationship between actors of the network, the network itself, and the external environment as circular, mutually influential, and dialectical, considering them as forces that co-determine organizational adaptation. Results draw attention to the dialectical nature of the relationships among quadruple helix actors involved, the reciprocal influence between them and eight factors, internal and external to universities, in shaping the network dynamics, leading to societal impacts. The latter are comprehensively assessed through a set of proposed indicators. Findings suggest conceiving positive societal impacts generated by such networks as a result of multilevel co-evolutionary adaptations among quadruple helix actors and between the network itself and the rest of society. Systemic approach is identified as the main determinant of effective co-adaptations. Results extend prior research by providing a novel co-evolutionary explanation of network dynamics and related societal impacts in the context of complex adaptive systems. Practical implications for quadruple helix actors suggest how to engage in a network of relationships to co-create innovative solutions from entrepreneurial valorization of research that address societal needs.
Bayesian Stochastic Rainfall Generator (BSRG): Intelligent and Digital tool for Rainfall Forecasting through Bayesian Causal Modelling
Authors: Molina Jose-Luis , Patino-Alonso Carmen , Espejo Fernando
Published: February 2025

Rainfall is probably the most uncertain natural variable. This research is mainly aimed to design an intelligent data-driven tool called Bayesian Stochastic Rainfall Generator (BSRG) for improving the rainfall forecast. There are several previous stochastic generators for rainfall data generation. However, there is not any designed through a Bayesian stochastic approach. The utilization of rainfall data from the Muñogalindo rain gauge in Ávila, Spain, is discussed in this study, offering insights into the region’s Mediterranean continental climate. The innovative methodology known as Hyetoclust, serves as the foundation for the subsequent development of the BSRG. Findings reveal that cluster-specific characteristics significantly influence rainfall patterns, expressed as probabilistic distributions, under both normal and extreme regimes. In normal conditions, Cluster 3 exhibits the most sensitive behaviour of Rainfall Intensity to the optimization (Max and Min) of Event Duration compared to Clusters 1 and 2. This highlights the heterogeneous nature of rainfall patterns and emphasizes the necessity of considering cluster-specific traits in modelling and forecasting. Conversely, under extreme rainfall conditions, clusters exhibit varied responses. Clusters 1 and 3 tend to have similar effectively impacts under optimization (Max and Min) scenarios, while Cluster 2 displays a more complex behavior. In general terms, cluster 2 is the least sensitive to a minimization of time duration. This emphasizes the nuanced nature, expressed as probabilistic distributions, of hydrological responses and reinforces the importance of cluster-specific analysis in optimizing strategies during extreme regimes.
Arterial phase enhancement of the adrenal glands as a severity indicator for acute pancreatitis
Authors: Ookura Ryusuke , Usuki Noriaki , Miki Yukio
Published: February 2025

Purpose

To investigate the relationship between the computed tomography (CT) value of the adrenal glands in the arterial phase of dynamic contrast-enhanced CT and the severity of acute pancreatitis.

Materials and methods

We measured the maximum CT values of the adrenal glands on the arterial phase of dynamic contrast-enhanced CT of patients with acute pancreatitis and compared them with those of the non-pancreatitis group. Moreover, we evaluated the correlations between the adrenal CT values and maximum C-reactive protein (CRPmax) and CRP/albumin ratio (CAR) in the clinical courses.

Results

In this retrospective study, a total of 68 patients was included. The maximum CT value of the adrenal glands of pancreatitis group was significantly higher than that of the control group (p < 0.001). Significant fair correlations were observed between the adrenal CT value and CRPmax (r = 0.483, p < 0.001) or CAR (r = 0.450, p < 0.001). The cut-off value of the adrenal CT values was determined as 180.5 Hounsfield unit.

Conclusion

In cases of acute pancreatitis, the maximum CT value of the adrenal gland in the arterial phase of dynamic contrast-enhanced CT was significantly higher than in non-pancreatitis controls, and the intensity of the contrast enhancement correlated with the CRPmax and CAR during the subsequent course of pancreatitis. This finding may assist in predicting the severity of acute pancreatitis.
In vitro propagation and assessment of genetic stability in Eriobotrya japonica (Thunb.) Lindl. as affected by zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs)
Authors: Ghareb Heba El-Sayed , Mustafa Sabha Salman , Ibrahim Shafik Darwish , Abd Alhady Mohamed Reda , Gabr Mahdia Farid
Published: February 2025

Eriobotrya japonica (Thunb.) Lindl. is an evergreen tree that holds economic significance. It is cultivated for its fruits, leaves and ornamental properties. Its propagation by seeds and cuttings is inefficient due to high heterozygosity, lengthy juvenile phase and reproductive cycle. This study establishes a direct in vitro propagation technique for the plant from the mother tree. The impact of different zinc oxide nanoparticle (ZnO-NP) concentrations on E. japonica’s in vitro propagation was assessed. Genetic stability of the micropropagated plantlets was also conducted using start codon targeted (SCoT) and sequence-related amplified polymorphism (SRAP) markers to evaluate the protocols’ efficiency. Successful shoot establishment involved 1.0 mg L−1 6-benzyladenine (BA) and 0.1 mg L−1 α-naphthaleneacetic acid (NAA) supplemented to Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium, yielding 80% growth induction, the highest shoot number (3.72) and length (4.84 cm). MS medium with 1.0 mg L−1 BA and 1.0 mg L−1 kinetin (Kin) achieved 95% multiplication and optimal shoot number (5.70). Adding 50.0 mg L−1 ZnO-NPs significantly influenced shoot formation, leading to 100% growth induction, highest shoot number (7.67) and highest shoot length (4.0 cm). Rooting using 1.5 mg L−1 indole-3-butyric acid (IBA) in half MS medium achieved 100% rooting response and 85% survival for post-greenhouse acclimatization. Genetic stability analysis showed low degree of polymorphism (3.3%) and high percentage of monomorphic bands (96.7%) between donor and micropropagated plants. Dice’s similarity coefficient displayed high similarity (0.992 to 1.000) between sub-cultured and mother plants. An effective method for in vitro propagation of E. japonica was successfully established. ZnO-NPs significantly influence shoot formation and facilitate the mass production of E. japonica plants with desired characteristics.
Particle swarm optimization for preference rankings
Authors: Romano Maurizio , Conversano Claudio , Siciliano Roberta , D’Ambrosio Antonio
Published: February 2025

Preference learning, or the analysis of preference rankings, is gaining more and more importance in various scientific disciplines. Preference learning methods allow predicting preferences on a set of alternatives. The ingredients are a pool of evaluators and a set of objects or items to be ranked in order of preference. The rank aggregation problem must be solved in order to aggregate preferences or rankings with the aim to find a consensus or collective decision. Branch-and-bound-like procedures are usable up to problems involving a relatively small number of objects, say less than 200. When the number of items becomes very large, the rank aggregation problem becomes increasingly difficult to approach so that it is universally recognized as an NP-hard problem. Several heuristic methods have been proposed to provide increasingly accurate solutions. These assume the Kemeny axiomatic approach that better deals with tied rankings. In this paper, we adopt a strategy based on Particle Swarm Optimization by adapting procedures born to solve optimization problems in continuous spaces to discrete combinatorial optimization problems. A simulation study shows the performance of the proposed algorithm in a controlled environment. A benchmarking complex data set and two real world data sets with large number of items are considered. As a result, the proposed algorithm provides significant savings in computational time and comparable accuracy with respect to other recent algorithms.
Effect of Cumulative Zinc Doses on Papillary Muscle Contractions and the Zinc Finger Protein ZEB1
Authors: Akgun-Unal Nı̇lufer , Ustun Aylı̇n , Bayirli Sevban , Unal Omer , Mogulkoc Rası̇m , Baltacı Abdulkerim Kasım
Published: February 2025

In this study, we aimed to investigate the effects of cumulative doses of Zn2+ (by exposing samples to 1 µM, 10 µM, and 100 µM ZnCl2) on myocardial papillary muscle contractions isolated from rat hearts in vitro and the roles of the zinc finger protein ZEB1 in this effect. In these preparations, 100 µM ZnCl2 application in different protocols caused a decrease in contraction force and an increase in contraction time in both frequency-dependent parameters and pre-expected stimuli when compared to the control group. Our study data show that Ca2+ homeostasis is closely related to increasing Zn2+ doses (especially at 100 µM ZnCl2 dose). Secondly, the levels of ZEB1, a zinc finger protein, were also significantly lower in the 100 µM ZnCl2 group compared to the other groups, which seems to be related to the increase in Ca2+ that triggers ROS production at high doses of Zn2+. The data of our study, which we conducted to understand the Zn2+ concentrations in the heart and to reveal new mechanisms that play a role in the regulation of Ca2+ dynamics in heart tissue and is the first research in the literature on this subject, show that in vitro zinc application may have a dose-dependent effect on myocardial papillary muscle contractions.
Multi-omics in Allergic Rhinitis: Mechanism Dissection and Precision Medicine
Authors: Hao Yan , Yang Yujuan , Zhao Hongfei , Chen Ying , Zuo Ting , Zhang Yu , Yu Hang , Cui Limei , Song Xicheng
Published: February 2025

Allergic rhinitis (AR) is a common chronic inflammatory airway disease caused by inhaled allergens, and its prevalence has increased in recent decades. AR not only causes nasal leakage, itchy nose, nasal congestion, sneezing, and allergic conjunctivitis but also induces asthma, as well as sleep disorders, anxiety, depression, memory loss, and other phenomena that seriously affect the patient’s ability to study and work, lower their quality of life, and burden society. The current methods used to diagnose and treat AR are still far from ideal. Multi-omics technology can be used to comprehensively and systematically analyze the differentially expressed DNA, RNA, proteins, and metabolites and their biological functions in patients with AR. These capabilities allow for an in-depth understanding of the intrinsic pathogenic mechanism of AR, the ability to explore key cells and molecules that drive its progression, and to design personalized treatment for AR. This article summarizes the progress made in studying AR by use of genomics, epigenomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, metabolomics, and microbiomics in order to illustrate the important role of multi-omics technologies in facilitating the precise diagnosis and treatment of AR.
Exosomes and solid cancer therapy: where are we now?
Authors: Zemanek Tomas , Danisovic Lubos , Nicodemou Andreas
Published: February 2025

Cancer immunotherapy has revolutionized oncology, offering new hope for patients with previously incurable cancers. However, solid tumors remain a significant challenge due to immune evasion, therapeutic resistance, and the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment. Exosomes, a specialized subset of extracellular vesicles, have emerged as promising tools in cancer therapy owing to their unique role in intercellular communication and immune modulation. These vesicles transport antigens, major histocompatibility complex (MHC) molecules, and immune-modulatory cargo, positioning them as potential platforms for cancer vaccines, drug delivery systems, and combinatorial therapies. Advances in engineered exosomes have improved drug bioavailability, tumor targeting, and immune stimulation, showcasing their potential in personalized medicine. This review highlights their multifaceted role in the tumor microenvironment, and their mechanisms of action in solid cancer therapy. Additionally, we discuss emerging strategies to overcome clinical and technical hurdles, paving the way for novel and effective cancer treatments.
Study of an N6-methyladenosine- and ferroptosis-related prognostic model and the mechanisms underlying the molecular network in neuroblastoma based on multiple datasets
Authors: Chu Jing
Published: February 2025

Recent research highlights the pivotal role of N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modification and ferroptosis in the evolution of various cancers. This study aimed to establish a prognostic framework centered on genes associated with m6A and ferroptosis to enhance the accuracy of prognosis predictions for neuroblastoma (NB) patients, thereby improving targeted therapeutic strategies. Patient data, including expression profiles and clinical information from NB cases, were acquired from The Cancer Genome Atlas. Genes related to m6A modification and ferroptosis were identified, and those significant for prognosis were pinpointed using a combination of Cox regression analysis and the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression. For further validation, the study utilized external datasets GSE62564 and GSE85047. A prognostic index was computed for each NB patient, followed by analyses of immune cell infiltration and potential drug responsiveness based on the prognostic model. Additionally, enrichment analysis was conducted on the prognostic scores. These scores showed a strong association with the tumor immune environment and the efficacy of prevalent cancer therapies. Moreover, the model’s prognostic score emerged as an independent predictive marker for NB. This research succeeded in creating and confirming a prognostic model rooted in m6A and ferroptosis-linked genes, promising to enrich the prognostic understanding and treatment approaches for NB.
Stigmatization Attitudes and Affecting Factors of Parents with and Without Children with Cancer: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Simsek Aysegul
Published: February 2025

This study examines whether encountering cancer makes a difference and the perspectives and attitudes of parents of children with cancer. This descriptive and cross-sectional study was conducted with parents who applied to the emergency department of a hospital. Data were collected using a sociodemographic information form and the “Cancer Attitudes Questionnaire (Cancer Stigma)-Community Version.” Mean, minimum, maximum, number, and percentages and comparison analyses (chi-square, Mann-Whitney U, and Kruskal-Wallis tests) were performed. The significance level was a 95% confidence interval. The study was completed with a total of 362 parents, 120 of whom had children with cancer. Of the parents, 82.9% are mothers. The scale score of those who had a child with cancer was 3.34 and 3.22 for those who did not have a child with cancer. The scale score was affected by the number of children (p=0.008), mother’s occupation (p=0.00), parents’ educational status (mother p=0.05; father p=0.03), family type (p=0.00), family economic status (p=0.02), religious perception (p=0.01), child’s age (p=0.001), gender (p=0.00), type of treatment (p=0.00), and previous hospital experience (p=0.006). The findings revealed that parents’ attitudes towards cancer were negative regardless of whether they experienced cancer or not. Personal characteristics such as family type, parental occupation, and educational status, as well as disease-related characteristics such as the type of the child’s disease (acute or chronic) and the type of treatment, affect the direction of attitudes. It is recommended that stigmatization be included in individual and community education on health. Especially for patients, the feelings and effects of stigmatization can be included. It is also recommended to include an empathic approach in education.