bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Outcomes after radical endoscopic resection of high-risk T1 esophageal adenocarcinoma: an international multicenter retrospective cohort study
Authors: Chan Man Wai , Haidry Rehan , Norton Benjamin , di Pietro Massimiliano , Hadjinicolaou Andreas V. , Barret Maximilien , Doumbe Mandengue Paul , Seewald Stefan , Bisschops Raf , Nafteux Philippe , Bourke Michael J. , Gupta Sunil , Mundre Pradeep , Lemmers Arnaud , Vuckovic Clémence , Pech Oliver , Leclercq Philippe , Coron Emmanuel , Meijer Sybren L , Bergman Jacques , Pouw Roos E.
Published: February 2025

Introduction
Post-endoscopic resection (ER) management of high-risk T1 esophageal adenocarcinoma (EAC) is debated, with conflicting reports on lymph node metastases (LNM) We aimed to assess outcomes following radical ER for high-risk T1 EAC.

Methods
We identified patients who underwent radical ER (tumor-negative deep margin) of high-risk T1 EAC, followed by surgery or endoscopic surveillance, between 2008-2019 across 11 international centers.

Results
In total, 106 patients (86 men, 70 ±11 years) were included. Of these, 26 patients (64 ±11 yrs) underwent additional surgery, with residual T1 EAC in 5 (19%) and LNM in 2 (8%) cases. After median 47 (IQR 32-79) months follow-up, 2/26 (8%) developed LNM/distant metastasis (DM), with 1 (4%) EAC-related death. There was 1/26 (4%) unrelated death and 4/26 (15%) were lost to follow-up.
Eighty patients (71 ±9 yrs) entered endoscopic surveillance. Over 46 (IQR 25-59) months follow-up, 5/80 (6%) developed LNM/DM, with 4/80 (5%) EAC-related deaths. There were 15/80 (19%) unrelated deaths, and 10/80 (13%) were lost to follow-up. Overall rates during follow-up were 6% (95% CI 2-12) for LNM, 7% (95% CI 3-13) for LNM/DM, 5% (95% CI 2-11) for EAC-related mortality, and 20% (95% CI 13-29) for overall mortality.

Conclusion
Our findings present low rates of LNM after radical ER of high-risk T1 EAC, consistent with other endoscopy-focused studies. Post-surgical patients are still at risk for metastasis and disease-specific mortality. These results suggest that endoscopic surveillance is suitable for selected cases, but further prospective studies are needed to refine patient selection and confirm optimal outcomes.
Multimodality Imaging in Wrist Fractures and Dislocations
Authors: Sharma Madhurima , Choudhury Shayeri Roy , Sinha Anindita , Prakash Mahesh
Published: February 2025

Wrist fractures and dislocations are frequently encountered in the emergency department and can cause significant long-term disability. Imaging plays a crucial role in the evaluation of wrist injuries, with conventional radiography being the first imaging investigation. Cross-sectional imaging is playing an increasingly important role in management of wrist injuries. Computed tomography with 3D and multiplanar reformatting capabilities is in particular useful for detailed evaluation of bony injuries and can provide vital information to orthopaedic surgeons for adequate surgical planning. In this article, we provide a brief review of the normal wrist anatomy, imaging appearance, and various patterns of fractures and dislocations commonly encountered in the emergency department.
A shift in (a)symmetry, not gravity: the transformation of Central and Eastern Europe in transatlantic relations
Authors: Grgić Gorana
Published: February 2025

The notion of a “shift of the centre of gravity” towards Europe’s East has gained traction in analyses of Russia’s war against Ukraine. This article challenges that idea and proposes alternative conceptual-analytical tools for studying contemporary transatlantic relations. It advocates for a disaggregated approach to transatlantic relations and introduces the concept of distinct types of asymmetries within these relations. By examining the evolution of US-Central and Eastern Europe (CEE) relations since the end of the Cold War, the article demonstrates a significant reduction in the observed asymmetry. The article delves into case studies from the Trump presidency to support the argument that the asymmetry in US-CEE relations during that time was already less pronounced compared to the previous post-Cold War decades. Under the Biden presidency, most of these trends have continued, particularly in light of Russia’s full-scale warfare.
Development of a 1.2 MV high voltage DC power supply with SF6 insulation for an electrostatic tandem proton accelerator in accelerator-based boron neutron capture therapy system
Authors: Park Chawon , Kim Minho , Jung Hyunwoo , Park Seungwoo , Hong Bong Hwan
Published: February 2025

This paper presents the development of a 1.2 MV high-voltage direct current (DC) power supply with an SF6 insulation for an electrostatic tandem proton accelerator utilized in an accelerator-based boron neutron capture therapy (BNCT) system. BNCT offers a promising alternative to traditional radiation therapy for the treatment of malignant brain tumors, head and neck cancers, and melanomas. The electrostatic tandem proton accelerator system, designed to produce H− ions and subsequently accelerate them to generate protons, represents a significant advancement in medical technology. Key milestones in the process include generating and maintaining a high-voltage DC power supply of 1.2 MV/45 mA for over 30 min, with rigorously testing conducted up to 750 kV/45 mA in ambient conditions. The system features an upgraded Cockcroft–Walton rectifier stage and incorporates a realistic load resistance, with final testing conducted in a tank filled with SF6 gas. Performance tests conducted in atmospheric and SF6 gas environments demonstrate the stable operation of the power supply up to 1.2 MV/45 mA, despite challenges such as corona discharge and electrical arcing in atmospheric environments. It demonstrates excellent long-term voltage and current stability, proving its suitability for tandem proton accelerators by reliably supplying 54 W of power to the dummy load. The developed system can enhance the effectiveness of BNCT systems by generating high-current proton beams, leading to improved treatment outcomes.
Accelerating inverse Kohn–Sham calculations using reduced density matrices
Authors: Kanungo Bikash , Tribedi Soumi , Zimmerman Paul M. , Gavini Vikram
Published: February 2025

The Ryabinkin–Kohut–Staroverov (RKS) and Kanungo–Zimmerman–Gavini (KZG) methods offer two approaches to find exchange-correlation (XC) potentials from ground state densities. The RKS method utilizes the one- and two-particle reduced density matrices to alleviate any numerical artifacts stemming from a finite basis (e.g., Gaussian- or Slater-type orbitals). The KZG approach relies solely on the density to find the XC potential by combining a systematically convergent finite-element basis with appropriate asymptotic correction on the target density. The RKS method, being designed for a finite basis, offers computational efficiency. The KZG method, using a complete basis, provides higher accuracy. In this work, we combine both methods to simultaneously afford accuracy and efficiency. In particular, we use the RKS solution as an initial guess for the KZG method to attain a significant 3–11× speedup. This work also presents a direct comparison of the XC potentials from the RKS and the KZG method and their relative accuracy on various weakly and strongly correlated molecules, using their ground state solutions from accurate configuration interaction calculations solved in a Slater orbital basis.
A hybrid magnetic reset design for the high voltage pulse generator based on forward circuit and magnetic superposition
Authors: Guo Jinlong , Zhao Yajun , Qi Luhao , Li Shiji , Jin Shanshan , Xu Dong , Fang Zhi
Published: February 2025

Pulsed power technology has found widespread application in environmental governance, biomedicine, food processing, and other fields. This study proposes a pulse generator using forward topology and magnetic superposition to get high-voltage outputs. This design could adjust the pulse width in a relatively larger range by optimizing the coil structure and turns. The isolated power supply and trigger signal are not needed. The RCD (Resistor–Capacitor–Diode) and the third winding are used to reset the remanence. The third winding magnetic reset will take over the resetting process when the capacitor voltage of RCD is over twice the charging voltage if the magnetic flux to be reset is relatively large. By the combination of these two magnetic reset methods, the ringing of the output could be absorbed, the voltage stress on the switch could be limited to about twice the charging voltage, and the efficiency of the system could be improved. The working principle is analyzed and verified by simulation and experiments. Finally, a 20-stage pulse generator is developed, which could generate the pulse with an amplitude of 10 kV and a pulse width of 2–5 µs. With this design, the voltage and current could be easily improved by adding stages and switches in parallel.
Evaporation of aerosol droplets from contaminated cooling tower water
Authors: Lefebvre Xavier , Chartray-Pronovost Mathieu , Duchaine Caroline , Bédard Emilie , Prévost Michèle , Robert Etienne
Published: February 2025

The evaporation dynamics of water-based aerosol droplets carrying pathogens, such as Legionella from cooling towers, is critical for assessing the risks of airborne transmission. Yet, the evaporation of contaminated aerosol droplets remains poorly understood and is often overlooked by current risk assessment models. Changes in water properties, such as viscosity and surface tension, induced by the presence of nonvolatile solids or contaminants, affect the evaporation time, the droplet nuclei size, and the time resolved size evolution. The effect of these parameters was experimentally and analytically studied. Surfactants lowering surface tension introduced non-linearity in droplet size evolution, extending evaporation time by up to 14% and halting it at high concentrations. Increased viscosity delayed evaporation onset without affecting nuclei size, which remained around 8–9 μm compared to 0.5 μm for reference water droplets. High concentration of solids, covering over 60% of the droplet surface, nearly doubled the evaporation time and increased nuclei size to 20 μm. Existing evaporation models do not fully account for temporal size changes and the variability in nuclei size due to solids concentration. Improving evaporation models and incorporating them into microbial contamination risk assessments are critical to develop effective mitigation strategies, such as using efficient drift eliminators for cooling towers.
Water cavitation results from the kinetic competition of bulk, surface, and surface-defect nucleation events
Authors: Loche Philip , Kanduč Matej , Schneck Emanuel , Netz Roland R.
Published: February 2025

Water at negative pressures can remain in a metastable state for a surprisingly long time before it reaches equilibrium by cavitation, i.e., by the formation of vapor bubbles. The wide spread of experimentally measured cavitation pressures depending on water purity, surface contact angle, and surface quality implicates the relevance of water cavitation in bulk, at surfaces, and at surface defects for different systems. We formulate a kinetic model that includes all three different cavitation pathways and determine the nucleation attempt frequencies in bulk, at surfaces, and at defects from atomistic molecular dynamics simulations. Our model reveals that cavitation occurs in pure bulk water only for defect-free hydrophilic surfaces with wetting contact angles below 50° to 60° and at pressures of the order of −100 MPa, depending only slightly on system size and observation time. Cavitation on defect-free surfaces occurs only for higher contact angles, with the typical cavitation pressure rising to about −30 MPa for very hydrophobic surfaces. Nanoscopic hydrophobic surface defects act as very efficient cavitation nuclei and can dominate the cavitation kinetics in a macroscopic system. In fact, a nanoscopic defect that hosts a preexisting vapor bubble can raise the critical cavitation pressure much further. Our results explain the wide variation of experimentally observed cavitation pressures in synthetic and biological systems and highlight the importance of surface and defect mechanisms for the nucleation of metastable systems.
Anomalous stability behaviors in two-sided wavy collapsible channels
Authors: Rahimi Zaher , Young John , Tian Fang-Bao
Published: February 2025

Stents have been extensively used to handle the severe stenosis of arteries. The properties of the stented arteries have not been carefully studied. This study investigates the dynamic behaviors of two-sided wavy collapsible channels conveying a pulsatile flow by using the immersed boundary-lattice Boltzmann method. A pulsatile flow representing heartbeats and a simplified wavy wall modeling the stent geometry are incorporated, along with two configurations: wall movement with and without a symmetric constraint. The fluid–structure interaction system is solved by a hybrid method of the immersed boundary-lattice Boltzmann and the generalized interpolation material point methods. Several key parameters are analyzed: Reynolds number (Re), non-dimensional frequency, external pressure, mass ratio of the wall, and the constraint of flexible walls. It is found that the chaotic paths of systems with and without the symmetric constraint are opposite within the ranges of the parameters considered here, which may be due to the energy input associated with the constraint. Specifically, for channels without the constraint, the flow goes from periodic to quasiperiodic and then chaotic when Re, and the pressure ratio decrease; while the system with the constraint experiences such changes when Re, and the pressure ratio increase. Moreover, increasing the frequency of the pulsatile flow shows a transition from quasiperiodic to chaotic behavior for both systems with and without constraint, which is due to the shift of the phase between the flow pressure and the wall movement from almost in phase for the quasiperiodic cases to anti phase for the chaotic cases. The results obtained in this work can be used to plan and evaluate the stent insertion. The two-dimensional simulation is considered due to its low computational cost and its ability to reveal the major mechanisms. It is beneficial to study the three-dimensional cases with contact models between the stent and the artery in the future.
High-power GeSn photodetector for 2-μm RoF system
Authors: Cui Jinlai , Zheng Jun , Liu Xiangquan , Wu Yiyang , Li Jiayi , Huang Qinxing , Zuo Yuhua , Liu Zhi , Cheng Buwen
Published: February 2025

A radio-over-fiber (RoF) link simplifies the base station and network structure, adapting to the trends of high capacity and rapid development in modern communication. The development of 2-μm-band links improves the capacity of communication systems, which can solve future optical fiber capacity crises. In this work, a relaxed high-Sn-content GeSn absorption layer was grown on a Si substrate, and high-power GeSn photodetectors were fabricated. The photodetectors achieved a low dark current with a cutoff wavelength of about 2930 nm. The GeSn photodetectors had a saturated photocurrent of up to 70 mA operating in the 2-μm-wavelength range and a 3-dB bandwidth of approximately 1.6 GHz. The results provide a technical reference for the application of GeSn 2-μm detectors in RoF links.
Optimization design and experimental verification of unmanned sailboat sails
Authors: Qin Hongde , Xiang Kun , Cao Xiaojian , Qi Binxuan , Huang Xingchen , Wang Yunmei
Published: February 2025

With the increasing demand for ocean resource development and environmental monitoring, wind-powered unmanned sailboats have gained significant attention as autonomous equipment capable of long-duration and long-distance operations at sea. In the present study, the aerodynamic performance of wing sails for the “FanHai-T1” unmanned sailboat is evaluated from different airfoil types, aspect ratios, and angles of attack based on computational fluid dynamics simulation. The optimal airfoil type, chord length, and aspect ratio are confirmed to ensure sufficient thrust for sailboat navigation. Considering that the wing sail must meet certain stiffness and strength requirements to withstand harsh sea conditions, the topology optimization of the wing sail's internal structure is conducted through a variable-density method based on solid isotropic material with penalization interpolation. The internal material distribution density of the wing sail is set as the design variable. The material volume fraction, sail strength, and maximum allowable deformation are defined as constraints. The maximum stiffness is determined as the objective function. Finally, water tank tests are carried out to verify the seaworthiness of the FanHai-T1 unmanned sailboat equipped with the optimized wing sail. The optimized sail is proven to not only demonstrate excellent aerodynamic performance but also satisfy requirements for structural stiffness, strength, and lightweight design.
Comparison of multiple machine learning models for the regression of water hammer with column separation
Authors: Fu You , Zhang Shanshan
Published: February 2025

This paper seeks to harness the potential of machine learning techniques to substantially enhance both the precision and efficacy of predicting water hammer phenomena, while simultaneously reducing time, safeguarding pipeline, and conserving resources. A novel mathematical model is proposed by integrating the two-fluid model and the interphase relaxation model with an improved Godunov–Harten–Lax–van Leer numerical method. The study conducts a comprehensive evaluation of the performance of four prominent machine learning algorithms—Back Propagation Neural Network (BP neural network), deep forest, Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM), and Extreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost)—for the regression analysis of water hammer with column separation. In terms of predictive accuracy, the LSTM model achieves an impressive accuracy of 0.981 94. The BP neural network, deep forest, and XGBoost models yield accuracies of 0.975 01, 0.929 83, and 0.928 65, respectively. Regarding computational efficiency, XGBoost shows a clear advantage, with an overall average execution time of 4.13 s. Deep forest is distinguished by its simplicity in parameter configuration. This research provides valuable insights for selecting the optimal model for regression analysis of water hammer with column separation under a variety of conditions. Furthermore, the paper employs data visualization to directly generate visual trend representations of the overall pressure distribution, thereby eliminating the need for cumbersome numerical comparisons typical of traditional methods.
The hydrodynamic transport features of a delivery system
Authors: Liu Chen , Ouyang Zhenyu , Lin Jianzhong
Published: February 2025

We simulated the transport features of a delivery system, which forms by an elliptical squirmer (a type of active particle, driven by an imposed tangential velocity at its boundary) and an elliptical cargo, under walls constraints without any manual intervention. Two locomotion modes of the delivery system, including the following mode and the separating mode, are identified. The former can be detailly divided into three stability states, including the vertical stable state, the sliding stable state and the dynamic stable state. The effects of width of the box (L* = 2–3.8), self-propelling strength (β = −7–7) and aspect ratio (AR = 0.3–1) of the squirmer on the transport features [the stability, the terminal swimming velocity (U*), the power expenditure (P*), and the hydrodynamic efficient (η)] of the delivery system, are discussed. First, decreasing L* enhances the stability of all types of delivery systems, and the stability of the system driven by a pusher reducing with β while the system driven by a puller being negatively related to β at first but being independent with it when β ≥ 4. Moreover, the increasing of AR can also improve the stability of the system driven by a pusher in some extent. Second, L* (AR) is negative related to the U* of the delivery system, i.e., U* ∼ 0.3L* (∼AR−0.54), U* ∼ 0.21L* (∼AR−0.44), and U* ∼ 0.1L* (∼AR−0.3) for the systems driven by a pusher, a neutral squirmer and a puller, respectively. U* is positively with |β| for the system driven by a pusher but is negative with |β| for the system driven by a puller. Third, P* and η are negatively and positively related to L*, respectively. By contrast, they are positively and negatively related to |β|. The delivery system driven by a neutral squirmer is the most efficient transport combination, and it has the largest η at AR = 0.7.
The Rayleigh–Taylor instability in viscous fluids: The finite thickness effect revisited
Authors: Piriz S. A. , Piriz A. R. , Tahir N. A. , Cobos F.
Published: February 2025

A quasi-irrotational approximation is found for the problem of the Rayleigh–Taylor instability at the interface between a viscous fluid layer attached to a rigid wall and a semi-infinite ideal fluid. It takes into account the first order effects of the vorticity, and this turns out to be sufficient to produce a very accurate dispersion relation in a close and explicit analytical form. The resulting asymptotic growth rate reduces to the one obtained in the limit of pure irrotational flow for very thick layers, which is known to be accurate within a 10 %. For arbitrary thickness, the accuracy progressively improves for thinner layers retrieving the well-known exact results for very thin layers. For the more general case of two superposed layers of viscous fluids bounded, respectively, at the top and at the bottom by rigid walls, an interpolation formula is proposed for the dispersion relation on the basis of the problem symmetry, which, although it introduces a further approximation, still improves considerably the existing results.
Water wave interaction with a submerged porous disc in a two-layer fluid
Authors: Das Arijit , De Soumen
Published: February 2025

Using linear water wave theory, we consider a three-dimensional problem concerning the interaction of waves with a submerged porous disk in a fluid containing two layers of finite depth bounded above and below by a free surface and a rigid surface, respectively. The porous disk is positioned in the upper layer. The solution is based on the domain decomposition method to avoid the complex dispersion equation that often arises while studying porous structures, making it easier for numerical implementation. The velocity potentials are determined by the matched eigenfunction expansion method. The velocity potentials in those regions that contain the porous disk as a boundary have been decomposed into several components. Each component of the velocity potential is then expressed in terms of the eigenfunctions. Matching conditions and the orthogonal properties of eigenfunction assist in determining the velocity potential. The wave-induced forces and the amplitude of the propagating waves have been numerically analyzed. The variation in the wave-induced forces and amplitude of the waves above and below the disk, for different depths of submergence of the disk, density ratio of the fluid, and porous effect parameter of the disk has been analyzed. Sudden amplification and reduction of forces have been observed at certain frequencies. The numerical results show that, for low frequencies, the presence of an interface has a significant effect on the hydrodynamic coefficients. The results provide important insights for applications in offshore engineering, coastal protection, and environmental modeling, specifically in situations where porous materials interact with waves in multi-layered fluid systems.
The role of working memory and attention control in incidental L2 vocabulary learning from
reading-while-listening
Authors: Jung Jookyoung , Zhang Wenrui , Lee Minjin
Published: February 2025

This study investigated the role of working memory and attention control in incidental L2 vocabulary learning from
engaging in reading-while-listening. Fifty-nine Cantonese ESL learners engaged in reading-while-listening to two English stories
in which twelve adjective-pseudonoun collocations appeared three times in meaningful contexts. Immediately after the
reading-while-listening task and again one week later, participants completed unannounced posttests that measured their receptive
and productive knowledge about the pseudonouns and their collocations. Their working memory was assessed with an automated
operation span task, and attention control ability was measured with three squared tasks that consisted of Stroop, Flanker, and
Simon squared tasks. The results indicated that attention control played a significant role in remembering the target pseudonoun
forms and their collocational features for both recall and recognition. The working memory, by contrast, did not emerge as a
determinant factor. The implications of the findings were discussed in the context of L2 vocabulary learning.
Structural chirality and related properties in the periodic inorganic solids: Review and perspectives
Authors: Bousquet Eric , Fava Mauro , Romestan Zachary , Gómez-Ortiz Fernando , McCabe Emma E. , Romero Aldo H
Published: February 2025

Chirality refers to the asymmetry of objects that cannot be superimposed on their mirror image. It is a concept that exists in various scientific fields and has profound consequences. Although these are perhaps most widely recognized within biology, chemistry, and pharmacology, recent advances in chiral phonons, topological systems, crystal enantiomorphic materials, and magneto-chiral materials have brought this topic to the forefront of condensed matter physics research. Our review discusses the symmetry requirements and the features associated with structural chirality in inorganic materials. This allows us to explore the nature of phase transitions in these systems, the coupling between order parameters, and their impact on the material’s physical properties. We highlightessential contributions to the field, particularly recent progress in the study of chiral phonons, altermagnetism, magnetochirality between others. Despite the rarity of naturally occurring inorganic chiral crystals, this review also highlights a significant knowledge gap, presenting challenges and opportunities for structural chirality mostly at the fundamental level, e.g., chiral displacive phasetransitions, possibilities of tuning and switching structural chirality by external means (electric, magnetic, or strain fields), whether chirality could be an independent order parameter, and whether structural chirality could be quantified, etc. Beyond simply summarising this field of research, this review aims to inspire further research in materials science by addressing future challenges, encouraging the exploration of chirality beyond traditional boundaries, and seeking the development of innovative materials with superior or new properties.
Black holes as fermion factories
Authors: Chen Yifan , Xue Xiao , Cardoso Vitor
Published: February 2025

Ultralight bosons near rotating black holes can undergo significant growth through superradiant energy extraction, potentially reaching field values close to the Planck scale and transforming black holes into effective transducers for these fields. The interaction between boson fields and fermions may lead to parametric production or Schwinger pair production of fermions, with efficiencies significantly exceeding those of perturbative decay processes. Additionally, the spatial gradients of scalar clouds and the electric components of vector clouds can accelerate fermions, resulting in observable fluxes. This study considers both Standard Model neutrinos and dark sector fermions, which could contribute to boosted dark matter. Energy loss due to fermion emissions can potentially quench the exponential growth of the cloud, leading to a saturated state. This dynamic provides a framework for establishing limits on boson-neutrino interactions, previously constrained by neutrino self-interaction considerations. In the saturation phase, boson clouds have the capacity to accelerate fermions to TeV energies, producing fluxes that surpass those from atmospheric neutrinos near black holes. These fluxes open new avenues for observations through high-energy neutrino detectors like IceCube, as well as through dark matter direct detection efforts focused on targeted black holes.
Multi-source energy flow model analysis for urban systems
Authors: Liu Zongyue , Li Zongxin , Zhang Boqun , Zhao Hui
Published: February 2025

Unreasonable energy consumption hinders the sustainable development of cities. This study developed a multi-source energy flow (MEF) model based on the input-output table (IOT) to analyze energy consumption in Fujian Province. Combining IOT and energy consumption can help policy makers know the characteristics of energy consumption between sectors. Results show that the indirect energy consumption (203.43×106 tons of standard coal equivalent (SCE)) in Fujian Province is greater than the direct energy consumption (74.40×106 tons SCE). The EGW has the highest direct energy consumption (33.15×106 tons SCE), while the CON has the highest indirect energy consumption (28.71×106 tons SCE). EGW, SPM, CHE and NMP are the main energy outflow sectors, and CON is the main energy inflow sector. The contribution of direct energy flow to the economy was far greater than indirect energy flow; CON, WHO and SER are the main contributors in direct energy flow, and WHO, AGR and SER are the main contributors in indirect energy flow. These results can provide scientific guidance for the sustainable development of Fujian.
Black Candle
Authors: Chesnut R Andrew
Published: February 2025

Chapter 3 delves into the nuanced perceptions and roles of Santa Muerte, particularly focusing on the color black in her worship. Despite black not being the most popular candle color among devotees, it significantly influences mass media portrayals and public perception of Santa Muerte, emphasizing her “dark side.” This chapter aims to showcase her multifaceted identity, challenging the singular negative portrayal by highlighting her lesser-known roles as a healer, job broker, and protector, which will be explored in subsequent chapters. It examines Santa Muerte’s transformation from a clandestine figure to a prominent folk saint, discussing her involvement in both benevolent acts and darker deeds, such as vengeance and protection in drug trafficking and other criminal activities. The narrative explores the historical context, anthropological insights, and contemporary relevance of Santa Muerte, illustrating her complex relationship with Mexican society, law enforcement, and the media. Through detailed accounts of Santa Muerte’s worship, the chapter reveals the depth of her cult, the diversity of her followers, and her significant impact on various aspects of Mexican life, from personal protection to the intricacies of the drug trade.
Purple Candle
Authors: Chesnut R Andrew
Published: February 2025

This chapter examines the paradoxical role of death as a healer in Mexican culture, focusing on Santa Muerte’s appeal as both a supernatural protector and a faith healer. Drawing from B. Traven’s *Macario*, Mexican and European folklore, and contemporary practices, it traces the evolution of Santa Muerte’s image. Through narratives of healing rituals, pandemic protection, and cultural syncretism, the chapter shows how Santa Muerte fulfills a dual role in offering physical, emotional, and spiritual relief while upholding a nonjudgmental stance. Her prominence as a healer reveals underlying themes of mortality, faith, and resilience in the Mexican religious landscape.
Adrenal response to competitive singing: glucocorticoid metabolites in male Saltator similis (Aves, Thraupidae)
Authors: Lorieri-Vanin Carolina , Barbosa-Moyano Heriberto , de Oliveira Alvarenga Claudio , Silveira Luís Fábio
Published: February 2025

Song competitions involving passerines, such as the Green-winged Saltator (Saltator similis), are legally permitted in Brazil and attract widespread participation. This study aimed to assess the adrenal response in male S. similis by comparing glucocorticoid metabolite (GCM) levels in uro-faecal extract samples collected during three competitions with those from a rest day (3 days before the competition, D-3), a day before the competition (D-1), the day of the competition (D0) and a day after the competition (D1). Simultaneously, we examined the potential variation in GCM levels among other males not engaged in song competitions but subjected to ex situ conditions much like those of participating males. GCM levels were measured using a direct enzyme immunoassay (EIA, CJM006), which was physiologically (ACTH challenge) and analytically validated (parallelism, accuracy and precision tests) for the species under study. The results indicated that the average GCM concentration was lower in the competition group (33.43 ± 22.09 ng/g) as compared to the control group (70.09 ± 29.45 ng/g; P = 0.01). However, concentrations spiked significantly on competition day (D0: 38.29 ± 26.12 ng/g) as compared to the rest day (D-3: 28.64 ± 17.86  ng/g; P = 0.02), suggesting acute stress response. Given the elevated GCM levels observed during competitions, further research is necessary to confirm the welfare of these birds under competition conditions and to explore the long-term effects of such stressors.
Landiolol is effective and safe in paediatric supraventricular tachycardia: Evidence from a European prospective multicentre open-label Phase III study (LANDI-PED)
Authors: Michel-Behnke Ina , Müller Matthias , Stiller Brigitte , Kriebel Thomas , Kanaan Majed , Környei László , Mai Matthias , Gebauer Roman , Meier Jens , Roses-Noguer Ferran , Unger Martin , Schlager Stefanie , Charu Charu , Klade Christoph , Krejcy Kurt , Ackerl Jakob , Krumpl Günther
Published: February 2025

Background and Aims

Landiolol, an ultra-fast acting super-selective beta-blocker, was investigated for the first time in Europe in a prospective clinical study for the management of supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) among paediatric patients.

Methods

LANDI-PED was a prospective, multicentre, open-label, uncontrolled phase III study aiming to investigate the efficacy, safety, and pharmacokinetics (PK) of landiolol in paediatric patients. 60 patients in surgical and non-surgical settings aged ≥1 day to <18 years with SVTs of various aetiologies received landiolol as a continuous intravenous infusion starting with 5 μg/kg/min titrated up to 40 μg/kg/min depending on heart rate (HR) reduction for up to a maximum of 24 hours. The primary endpoint was restoration of normal sinus rhythm (NSR) within 210 minutes of infusion start.

Results

The primary endpoint was achieved in 15 (25.0%) patients. A total of 24 (40.0%) patients achieved a HR reduction of at least 20% within 210 minutes of landiolol infusion. A significant HR reduction was observed within minutes post-infusion, with a mean (±SD) reduction after 210 minutes of -13.2 (±11.5)% (p<0.0001) in the overall population. By infusion end, 51.7% of patients achieved HR reduction of at least 20% from baseline and/or NSR conversion. PK characteristics were consistent with the known profile of landiolol among adults. The most common adverse drug reaction was hypotension (10%).

Conclusions

Landiolol is effective and safe in the treatment of SVTs in the paediatric population as demonstrated by reduction of HR and/or restoring NSR. Landiolol was well tolerated with no novel safety concerns reported.

Trial registration

EU Clinical Trial Register; EudraCT Number: 2015-001129-17
Identity of Pyrus pyraster (L.) Burgsdorf, 1787 and implications for conservation and silviculture
Authors: Wagner Iris , Wagner Sven
Published: February 2025

Wild pear [Pyrus pyraster (L.) Burgsdorf, 1787], also called the European wild pear, is an underestimated forest tree species. Despite its large range in Europe, the species is rare. It is assumed to be threatened by hybridization with pears cultivated throughout Europe. Therefore, the species is a concern of conservation efforts today. A prerequisite for all conservation and silvicultural activities is a better knowledge of the identity of the wild pear. In total, 316 putative wild pears from four different locations in central Europe have been analysed by using eight polymorphic isozyme loci and six relevant morphological characters. These were compared with 320 cultivated pears (Pyrus × communis), which were divided into three categories in terms of their date of origin. The result of a genetic clustering procedure showed that 55% of all putative wild samples were pure wild pear, 39% were hybrids or introgressed individuals, and 6% were pure cultivated pear. Genetic variation in wild pear was high (species level: P = 100%, A/L = 3.6, He = 0.370). Subpopulation differentiation (δ) was 0.088, and pairwise genetic distance (d0) among four samples ranged from 0.086 to 0.171. The result of a principal component analysis of the morphological data revealed that there was no overlap between putative wild and cultivated pears, and 100% of the putative wild pears formed a distinct group. The intraspecific variability of fruit and leaf traits in pears was described. Mean values in wild pear were: fruit height 22 mm (SD 4.5), fruit width 25 mm (SD 5.3), fruit shape quotient 0.89 (SD 0.09), leaf length 40 mm (SD 4.8), leaf width 33 mm (SD 4.0), and leaf shape quotient 1.20 (SD 0.12). Within the wilds, no correspondence between genetic and morphological characters could be observed. The history of pear cultivation can help to understand major genetic results. Habitat ecology, character of occurrence, and historical information can provide explanations for site-specific genetic structure of the samples. Consequences for conservation and silviculture are discussed.
A broad genome survey reveals widespread presence of secretoglobin genes in squamate and archosaur reptiles that flowered into diversity in mammals
Authors: Karn Robert C , Laukaitis Christina M
Published: February 2025

Secretoglobins (SCGBs) are a superfamily of small, dimeric, cytokine-like proteins found originally in the reproductive tracts and airways of mammals. Most SCGB research has focused on respiratory diseases in humans and laboratory animal models but knowledge of their biological functions is sparse. We report here a broad survey of Scgbs, the genes that encode SCGBs, in animal genomes. We tested the view that they are uniquely mammalian in origin and distribution, hoping that understanding their distribution would shed light on their evolutionary history and perhaps point to putative biological functions. Rather than being uniquely mammalian, we found many different SCGBs in turtles, crocodilians, lizards and birds, suggesting they existed in the Carboniferous period (approximately 320 MYA) when the sauropsids evolved in the amniote lineage. We identified no SCGBs in amphibians or fishes, suggesting that this characteristic originated in an amniote ancestor. Amniotes include sauropsid and synapsid lineages and three subfamilies of SCGBs (SCGB2A, SCGB3A, and SCGB1C) are found in both sauropsid and synapsid lineages. Uteroglobin (SCGB1A), the first identified SCGB protein, is uniquely mammalian, having appeared in monotremes. The SCGB subfamilies including Androgen-binding proteins (ABPs; SCGB1B, SCGB2B) are first seen in metatherians. This complex distribution suggests that there is an as-yet-undiscovered basic function of secretoglobins shared by all amniotes.
Social Pathologies and the Fear of Ageing in Houellebecq’s Postmodern Narrative
Authors: Stončikaitė Ieva
Published: February 2025

In Michel Houellebecq’s écriture grise, the decline of Western civilisation is intertwined with contemporary maladies and the fear of ageing. A bleak depiction of ageing bodies functions as an extended metaphor for broader social pathologies, including the decline of spirituality, community well-being, and traditional values. Recurring themes such as the obsession with sex and anti-ageing bodywork, the cult of youth, compulsive consumerism, and erotic hedonism reflect Houellebecq’s critique of the transformations of the second half of the 20th century. Many of his protagonists, trapped in an existential midlife crisis and driven by anxieties related to intimate relationships and societal pressures to remain functional, youthful, and engaged, frequently resort to suicide. Using the framework of interdisciplinary age studies and the critical theory of social pathologies, this article discusses how Houellebecq’s characters struggle to navigate the challenges within competitive neoliberal imperatives, libidinal economies, and the discourse of successful ageing. It also underscores how his oeuvre, often characterised as apocalyptic, dystopian, or neo-decadent, advocates for authentic connection, care, faith, and unconditional love as essential components of human existence and survival.
‘Immigrant gifts’: Alphonso Trumpbour Clearwater, colonial silver and the limits of ‘Americanization’, 1906–1933
Authors: Conlin Jonathan
Published: February 2025

The Clearwater Bequest of 1933 is a landmark in the development of the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s holdings of American silver, and in the American Colonial Revival more broadly. Alphonso Trumpbour Clearwater (1848–1933) was a judge, antiquary and pillar of society in Kingston, New York. Drawing on the Clearwater papers at the Winterthur Museum in Delaware, as well as his correspondence with curators at the Metropolitan Museum of Art and other museums, this essay considers the origin in late nineteenth-century fairs of Clearwater’s collecting of late seventeenth- and eighteenth-century silver; his evolving taste and relations with dealers, curators and rival collectors in the decades before and after the opening of the Metropolitan’s American Wing (1924); and the interaction of his views on what kind of silver ‘belonged’ in his collection with his views on what kind of people did and did not ‘belong’ in the United States.
A Gaussian sliding windows regression model for hydrological inference
Authors: Schrunner Stefan , Pishrobat Parham , Janssen Joseph , Jenul Anna , Cao Jiguo , Ameli Ali A , Welch William J
Published: February 2025

Statistical models are an essential tool to model, forecast, and understand the hydrological processes in watersheds. In particular, the understanding of time lags associated with the delay between rainfall occurrence and subsequent changes in streamflow is of high practical importance. Since water can take a variety of flow paths to generate streamflow, a series of distinct runoff pulses may combine to create the observed streamflow time series. Current state-of-the-art models are not able to sufficiently confront the problem complexity with interpretable parametrization, thus preventing novel insights about the dynamics of distinct flow paths from being formed. The proposed Gaussian Sliding Windows Regression Model targets this problem by combining the concept of multiple windows sliding along the time axis with multiple linear regression. The window kernels, which indicate the weights applied to different time lags, are implemented via Gaussian-shaped kernels. As a result, straightforward process inference can be achieved since each window can represent one flow path. Experiments on simulated and real-world scenarios underline that the proposed model achieves accurate parameter estimates and competitive predictive performance, while fostering explainable and interpretable hydrological modelling.
Expedited Chemoradiation after Laser Interstitial Thermal Therapy (LITT) is Feasible and Safe in Patients with Newly Diagnosed Glioblastoma
Authors: Yu Jennifer S , Meade Seth M , Zhao Ran , Wei Wei , Dashora Himanshu , Prayson Richard , Grabowski Matthew M , Stevens Glen , Lobbous Mina , Murphy Erin S , Suh John H , Chao Samuel T , Barnett Gene H , Peereboom David , Ahluwalia Manmeet S , Mohammadi Alireza M
Published: February 2025

Background

High-grade gliomas (HGG) are incurable primary brain tumors. Laser Interstitial Thermal Therapy (LITT) has emerged as an alternative to surgery for select patients. Hyperthermia can improve the efficacy of radiation and chemotherapy. Shortening the time between LITT and chemoradiation may maximize their biological and clinical benefits. This trial evaluated the safety and feasibility of expediting chemoradiation after biopsy and LITT in patients with newly-diagnosed HGG.

Methods

Patients with suspected HGG were enrolled. Those with pathologic confirmation of HGG and deemed appropriate candidates for LITT and chemoradiation were considered evaluable. Participants underwent 6 weeks of adjuvant chemoradiation initiated within seven days of LITT. Endpoints were assessed until the completion of radiation, and included the occurrence of wound dehiscence; new, treatment-refractory seizures; cerebral edema; and completion of planned radiotherapy.

Results

Thirteen patients with suspected HGG were enrolled and ten were considered evaluable. All ten patients were diagnosed with glioblastoma (GBM, IDHwt). Three patients were deemed unevaluable: two patients with other CNS tumors and one GBM patient who developed grade 4 postoperative edema. Of ten evaluable patients, the median age was 60.2 years (IQR: 51.0, 69.4), and median preoperative KPS was 90 (IQR: 90, 80). The median time between LITT and the initiation of chemoradiation was seven days. There were no occurrences of significant protocol-related adverse events.

Conclusions

Accelerated initiation of chemoradiation after biopsy and LITT is safe and feasible for patients with newly diagnosed GBM. A larger study is needed to assess potential synergy of hyperthermia and chemoradiation to improve survival.
Histopathologically Confirmed Radiation Necrosis: Risk Factors and Clinical Outcomes in Patients with Primary Brain Tumors
Authors: Hazaymeh Mohammad , Malinova Vesna , Stork Lidia , Metz Imke , Stadelmann Christine , Huckhagel Torge , Dröge Leif Hendrik , El Shafie Rami , Mielke Dorothee , Rohde Veit , Abboud Tammam
Published: February 2025

Background

Radiation necrosis is a recognized complication following radiotherapy for primary brain tumors, presenting diagnostic and therapeutic challenges, and potentially masquerading as tumor recurrence. This study aims to delineate the clinical trajectory, management strategies, and outcomes of histologically confirmed radiation necrosis in patients treated for primary brain tumors.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective review of patients who underwent surgical intervention for suspected tumor recurrence at our institution between 2010 and 2022, following adjuvant radiotherapy. Cases with histopathologically confirmed radiation necrosis were identified and analyzed for onset, clinical symptoms, radiological features, correlation with radio- and chemotherapy, management approaches, and disease progression.

Results

Out of 276 patients operated for suspected recurrent brain tumors, 14 (5%) were histopathologically diagnosed with radiation necrosis. The latency period from radiotherapy to diagnosis ranged from 3 to 40 months. Notably, patients with oligodendrogliomas exhibited a significantly higher incidence of radiation necrosis (26%), underscoring a substantial risk association (P < 0.001). Conversely, the rates of radiation necrosis in patients with glioblastoma and astrocytoma (WHO grade II and III) were lower, at 2% and 0%, respectively, suggesting a lower risk association (P < 0.001 and P = 0.036, respectively). The majority (79%) of these patients were asymptomatic and exhibited a favorable clinical course, with most cases showing no progression of necrosis. During the follow-up period, tumor recurrence was verified in 2 patients.

Conclusion

Radiation necrosis post-radiotherapy for primary brain tumors occurs infrequently but predominantly in patients with oligodendrogliomas, often following a benign course. The study underscores the importance of close monitoring for this condition, given the potential for sampling errors and the critical need for histopathological confirmation to guide appropriate management.