bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Secure Control of Networked Control Systems Under Replay Attacks: A Switching‐Like Approach
Authors: Du Xian , Wu Feiyue , Lian Jie
Published: January 2025

This paper focuses on the secure control design of networked control systems (NCSs) under replay attacks. Mitigating replay attacks is a challenging task since the statistical similarity between replayed signals and real observations makes them difficult to distinguish. Given the persistence of potential attackers and the probability of individual attack failures, a novel switching‐based replay attack model is introduced. By employing this replay attack model, NCSs vulnerable to replay attacks can be transformed into a class of switching‐like systems. Within the framework of the average dwell time switching strategy and multiple Lyapunov stability theory, sufficient conditions for the mean‐square exponential stability of the underlying system are presented. Compared with the existing control schemes using the delay‐based replay attack model, the proposed secure control method effectively reduces the impact of replay attacks on the control performance. The effectiveness of the proposed approach is validated through simulation experiments carried out on two practical systems.
Macrocycle‐based differential sensing: Design strategies and applications
Authors: Tian Jia‐Hong , Zheng Zhe , Pan Yu‐Chen , Wang Yuefei , Guo Dong‐Sheng
Published: January 2025

Differential sensing, inspired by the olfactory systems in mammals, utilizes the cross‐reactivity of multiple sensor units toward analytes to generate a distinctive fingerprint for each analyte. Widely acknowledged as a robust analytical technique, differential sensing has entered a flourishing era with the advancement of machine learning. Nevertheless, developing sensor units and optimizing signal transduction remain significant tasks left to chemists. Macrocyclic receptors serve as promising materials for constructing sensor arrays with enhanced cross‐reactivity, facilitated by their ease of synthesis and derivatization, inherent broad‐spectrum encapsulation capability, and compatibility with multiple responsive signal transduction approaches. Herein, we present a concise overview of the fundamental processes involved in a sensor array, encompassing array construction, signal transduction, and data acquisition and analysis, with an emphasis on the unique advantages provided by macrocyclic receptors in the former two aspects. Then, we present fascinating application scenarios where macrocyclic receptors shine in differential sensing that rely on various ingenious sensing strategies. Finally, we discuss several issues with potential improvement and future directions for macrocyclic receptor‐based differential sensing, offering a forward‐looking perspective.
The Harms of Class Imbalance Corrections for Machine Learning Based Prediction Models: A Simulation Study
Authors: Carriero Alex , Luijken Kim , de Hond Anne , Moons Karel G. M. , van Calster Ben , van Smeden Maarten
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Risk prediction models are increasingly used in healthcare to aid in clinical decision‐making. In most clinical contexts, model calibration (i.e., assessing the reliability of risk estimates) is critical. Data available for model development are often not perfectly balanced with the modeled outcome (i.e., individuals with vs. without the event of interest are not equally prevalent in the data). It is common for researchers to correct for class imbalance, yet, the effect of such imbalance corrections on the calibration of machine learning models is largely unknown.

Methods

We studied the effect of imbalance corrections on model calibration for a variety of machine learning algorithms. Using extensive Monte Carlo simulations we compared the out‐of‐sample predictive performance of models developed with an imbalance correction to those developed without a correction for class imbalance across different data‐generating scenarios (varying sample size, the number of predictors, and event fraction). Our findings were illustrated in a case study using MIMIC‐III data.

Results

In all simulation scenarios, prediction models developed without a correction for class imbalance consistently had equal or better calibration performance than prediction models developed with a correction for class imbalance. The miscalibration introduced by correcting for class imbalance was characterized by an over‐estimation of risk and was not always able to be corrected with re‐calibration.

Conclusion

Correcting for class imbalance is not always necessary and may even be harmful to clinical prediction models which aim to produce reliable risk estimates on an individual basis.
Hollow TiO2@TpPa S‐Scheme Photocatalyst for Efficient H2O2 Production Through 1O2 in Deionized Water Using Phototautomerization
Authors: Jiang Zicong , Zhang Jianjun , Cheng Bei , Zhang Yong , Yu Jiaguo , Zhang Liuyang
Published: January 2025

Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) production through photocatalytic O2 reduction reaction (ORR) is a mild and cost‐efficient alternative to the anthraquinone oxidation strategy. Of note, singlet state oxygen (1O2) plays a crucial role in ORR. Herein, a hollow TiO2@TpPa (TOTP) S‐scheme heterojunction by the Schiff base reactions involving 1,3,5‐triformylphloroglucinol (Tp) and paraphenylenediamine (Pa) for efficient photocatalytic H2O2 production in deionized water has been developed. Upon irradiation, rapid phototautomerization of TaPa from enol to keto form expands π‐electron delocalization, facilitating effective conversion of the triplet excited state and consequent generation of 1O2. This mechanism is supported by time‐resolved electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectral analysis. Additionally, density functional theory calculations, in situ irradiated X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and femtosecond transient absorption spectroscopy reveal superior separation of photogenerated carriers in the TOTP S‐scheme composites. In deionized water, the TOTP2.4 S‐scheme heterojunction exhibits exceptional H2O2 production activity, yielding 891 µmol g−1 h−1, underscoring the critical role of 1O2 in the process. This research offers insights into the S‐scheme heterojunctions and emphasizes the pivotal role of 1O2 in enhancing H2O2 production efficiency.
Evolution Driven Microscale Combinatorial Chemistry in Intracellular Mimicking Droplets to Engineer Thermostable RNA for Cellular Imaging
Authors: Kinghorn Andrew Brian , Guo Wei , Wang Lin , Tang Matthew Yuk Heng , Wang Fang , Shiu Simon Chi‐Chin , Lau Kwan Kiu , Jinata Chandra , Poonam Aditi Dey , Shum Ho Cheung , Tanner Julian Alexander
Published: January 2025

Fluorescent light‐up aptamer/fluorogen pairs are powerful tools for tracking RNA in the cell, however limitations in thermostability and fluorescence intensity exist. Current in vitro selection techniques struggle to mimic complex intracellular environments, limiting in vivo biomolecule functionality. Taking inspiration from microenvironment‐dependent RNA folding observed in cells and organelle‐mimicking droplets, an efficient system is created that uses microscale heated water droplets to simulate intracellular conditions, effectively replicating the intracellular RNA folding landscape. This system is integrated with microfluidic droplet sorting to evolve RNA aptamers. Through this approach, an RNA aptamer is engineered with improved fluorescence activity by exploring the chemical fitness landscape under biomimetic conditions. The enhanced RNA aptamer named eBroccoli has increased fluorescence intensity and thermal stability, both in vitro and in vivo in bacterial and mammalian cells. In mammalian cell culture conditions, a fluorescence improvement of 3.9‐times is observed and biological thermal stability up to 45 °C is observed in bacterial systems. eBroccoli enable real‐time visualization of nanoscale stress granule formation in mammalian cells during heat shock at 42 °C. By introducing the concept of “biomimetic equivalence” based on RNA folding, the platform offers a simple yet effective strategy to mimic intracellular complexity in evolution‐based engineering.
Ultrabright and Stable Red Perovskite Nanocrystals in Micro Light‐Emitting Diodes Using Flow Chemistry System
Authors: Lin Yen‐Huei , Huang Wen‐Tse , Ngo Loan Thi , Gong Jiacheng , Hung Pei‐Chi , Chen Xueyuan , Chung Ren‐Jei , Liu Ru‐Shi
Published: January 2025

Addressing the challenges of the efficiency and stability of red perovskite nanocrystals is imperative for the successful deployment of these materials in displays and lighting applications. the structural dynamic changes of red perovskite quantum dots (PQDs) are explored using a flow chemistry system to solve the above hurdles. First, the ultrabright red‐emitting PQDs of CsPb(Br,I)3 are achieved by adjusting ligand distribution (oleic acid and oleyamine) in combination with different flow rates and equivalence ratios. The PQDs exhibit an impressive photoluminescence quantum yield (PLQY) of 95%. In addition, as mentioned in numerous previous studies, the severe instability of mixed halide perovskites is due to halide immigration. Therefore, in this paper, zinc, which has a lower dissociation energy than lead is utilized, as a reagent to provide more halide ions in the synthesis to enhance the stability of PQDs. As a result, a CsPb(Br,I)3@Cs4Pb(Br,I)6 core‐shell structure with outstanding stability and 92% PLQY is obtained. The simple method for synthesizing the core‐shell structure of CsPb(Br,I)3@Cs4Pb(Br,I)6 paves the way for the production of perovskite micro light‐emitting diodes for commercial applications.
Multi‐Functional Responsive Microcapsules with Sequential Release Capacity for Wound Healing
Authors: He Chengkai , Lin Xiang , Shang Luoran
Published: January 2025

The development of biomaterials capable of on‐demand delivery holds significant promise for wound therapy. Current research is centered on refining design precision and enhancing structural functionality to achieve effective controlled release of active agents, thereby facilitating wound healing. In this study, a coaxial microfluidic electrospray technique is employed to fabricate microcapsules comprising a black phosphorus (BP)‐laden alginate shell and a gelatin methacrylate (GelMA) core. Curcumin nanoparticles (CNPs) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) are respectively incorporated into the shell and core of the microcapsules. The photothermal performance of the microcapsules contributed to superior sterilization efficacy in the early stages of wound healing, while the growth factors in the core provided robust angiogenic effects during the later stages. These attributes enabled the microcapsules to significantly accelerate wound healing, enhance collagen deposition, and modulate inflammatory responses in a rat wound model, underscoring their potential for clinical application.
Enhanced Photocatalytic Degradation of Chlorsulfuron by MoS2/MIL101(Fe) S‐Scheme Heterojunction: A Conversion Mechanism Dominated by Electrons and Long‐Lifetime Reactive Species
Authors: Liu Bingkun , Tian Weijun , Lu Zhiyang , Huo Bingjie , Zhao Jing , Zou Mengyuan , Chu Meile
Published: January 2025

Altering the generation route of reactive species is a potent means to augment the photocatalytic activity. In this study, MoS2/MIL‐101(Fe) S‐scheme heterojunction (MF2) is prepared using a water/solvent thermal method for photocatalytic degradation of chlorsulfuron. Driven by the internal electric field, the local electron density of MF2 is redistributed, thus enhancing the adsorption of O2. This promoted charge transfer to generate e−, •, and H2O2 for efficient oxidation of chlorsulfuron. It is confirmed that photogenerated electrons and long‐lifetime reactive species (• and H2O2) played a major role. The degradation activity of MF2 for chlorsulfuron is much higher than MoS2 (42.21 times) and MIL‐101(Fe) (4.06 times). The charge transfer mechanism of the MF2 S‐scheme heterojunction is verified by experimental studies and Density Functional Theory simulation calculations. In addition, MF2 exhibited great potential for practical applications. This work provided new insights into the construction of S‐scheme heterojunctions and long‐lifetime reactive species‐dominated conversion mechanisms.
Shear Stress and Microbubble‐Mediated Modulation of Endothelial Cell Immunobiology
Authors: Memari Elahe , Singh Davindra , Alkins Ryan , Helfield Brandon
Published: January 2025

Cellular immunotherapy remains hindered in the context of solid tumors due to the immunosuppressive microenvironment, in which key endothelial cell adhesion molecules (CAM) are suppressed. Microbubble‐mediated focused ultrasound is being explored for targeted immunotherapy and can exert local shear stress upon neighboring endothelial cells. However, fluid and microbubble‐induced shear modulation of endothelial immunobiology is not well understood. Herein, the influence of both types of shear stress on human endothelial vein (HUVEC) and brain endothelial (HBEC‐5i) CAM expression and secretion of over 90 cytokines using acoustically coupled microscopy is examined. Fluid flow results in time‐dependent modulation of CAM expression, where ICAM‐1 peaked at 4 h (1.98‐fold, p < 0.001, HUVEC) and 24 h (1.56‐fold, p < 0.001, HBEC‐5i). While some chemokines are significantly enhanced (up to 16.2‐fold; p < 0.001) from both endothelial cell types (e.g., IL‐8, MCP‐1, MCP‐3), others are differentially expressed (e.g., CCL5, CXCL‐16, SDF‐1). Under ultrasound, ICAM‐1 expression at 4 h increased (≈1.4‐fold, p < 0.01) and resulted in significant large‐magnitude (p < 0.05) differential expression of 20 cytokines, most of which have immune‐activating function and within a subset of those induced by shear‐flow. Microbubble‐mediated ultrasound regulates ICAM‐1 expression and the human endothelial secretome toward an immune cell recruitment paradigm, and thus may reinforce solid tumor cellular immunotherapy efforts.
Heat‐Assisted Direct Photopatterning of Small‐Molecule OLED Emitters at the Micrometer Scale
Authors: Roh SeungHwan , Lee Seunghan , Ham Hyobin , Jhun Byung Hak , Yee Hyeono , You Youngmin , Kim BongSoo , Kang Moon Sung
Published: January 2025

A crucial step in fabricating full‐color organic light‐emitting diode (OLED) displays is patterning the emissive layer (EML). Traditional methods utilize thermal evaporation through metal masks. However, this limits the achievable resolution required for emerging microdisplay technologies. Alternatively, direct photolithography, wherein the layer to be patterned serves as a photoresist, offers a cost‐effective method for producing high‐resolution displays. Direct photopatterning methods for small molecules used as EMLs in OLEDs are introduced. This method employs photopolymerizable vinylbenzyl moieties directly anchored to the host and dopant small‐molecule emitters. By photoinitiating a free radical polymerization reaction between the vinylbenzyl moieties under mild annealing conditions (60 °C), the EML can be photopatterned using an i‐line UV source. Mild annealing is critical for achieving polymerization reactions at a low UV irradiation dose (0.6 J cm−2) without degrading the luminescent properties of the emitters. This process is referred to as heat‐assisted direct photopatterning (HADP). Using HADP, red, green, and blue OLED emitters with a minimum pattern width of 2 µm are successfully fabricated. These OLED emitters can be patterned side‐by‐side by simply repeating the patterning steps three times. This method offers a promising alternative for producing patterns of small molecules desired for ultrahigh‐resolution OLED‐based microdisplay technology.
Interfacial Work Function Modulation of Wide Bandgap Perovskite Solar Cell for Efficient Perovskite/CIGS Tandem Solar Cell
Authors: Liu Pingping , Li Wenhuan , Li Jiarui , Wang Ziyao , Chen Xia , Yu Shen , Zheng Xue , Xie Chen , Tang Zeguo , Wu Shengfan , Li Weimin , Yang Chunlei , Zhang Jie
Published: January 2025

Wide‐bandgap perovskite solar cells (PVSCs), a promising top‐cell candidate for high‐performance tandem solar cells, often suffer from larger open‐circuit voltage (VOC) deficits as the bandgap increases. Surface passivation is a common strategy to mitigate these VOC deficits. However, understanding the mechanisms underlying the differences in passivation effects among various types of molecules remains limited, which is crucial for developing universal interface passivation strategies and guiding the design of passivation molecules. This study compares the passivation effects of phenethylammonium iodide (PEAI) and piperazine iodine (PI) on VOC in wide‐bandgap PVSCs with a 1.66 eV bandgap. Results show that PI significantly enhances VOC, whereas PEAI does not. This improvement is attributed to increased built‐in voltage (Vbi) in PI‐treated PVSCs, stemming from a lower work function, which enhances carrier selectivity at the contact interfaces. The champion power conversion efficiency of the PVSCs is 21.47%, with a VOC of 1.23 V and a VOC loss of 0.43 V. The strategy is also effective for PVSCs with bandgaps of 1.56 and 1.81 eV. By layering semi‐transparent perovskite top cells onto copper indium gallium selenide (CIGS) bottom cells, a PCE of 26.36% is achieved in perovskite/CIGS 4‐terminal tandem solar cells.
Biomimetic Nanoplatform‐Mediated Protective Autophagy Blockage Enhancing Sonodynamic and Ca2+‐Overload Combined Therapy for Colon Cancer
Authors: Zhao Yuanru , Zhang Yujie , Zhang Yan , Zhang Yuanyuan , Deng Zhichao , Bai Ting , Zhang Mingxin , Zhang Mingzhen , Song Jian
Published: January 2025

The application of a multimodal combination therapy based on a targeted nanodelivery system has been demonstrated to be more valuable in the treatment of cancer. In this work, a hollow polydopamine delivery system (CCC@HP@M) was designed to achieve sonodynamic and calcium‐overload combined therapy for colon cancer. The CCC@HP@M exhibits both homologous tumour‐targeting ability and pH‐responsive drug release properties, enabling the simultaneous targeted delivery of CaO2 nanoparticles/sonosensitizer Ce6/autophagy inhibitor CQ. The CaO2 nanoparticles as calcium agents capable of triggering Ca2+ overload in tumor cells. The oxidative stress produced by sonodynamic therapy is facilitated by the disruption of calcium homeostasis to enhance the effect of Ca2+ overload‐induced apoptosis. Furthermore, the O2 produced by CaO2 augments the sensitization of sonodynamic therapy. The autophagy inhibitor CQ can inhibit protective cellular autophagy, which is activated by sonodynamic therapy and Ca2+ overload. Consequently, autophagy blockage can ensure the therapeutic effect of sonodynamic and Ca2+‐overload combined therapy for colon cancer. The results of experiments in vitro and in vivo demonstrate that the stimulus‐responsive targeted delivery system achieves autophagy blockage augmented sonodynamic and Ca2+‐overload combined therapy of colon cancer. This work offers a promising theoretical basis for optimizing combined treatment strategies for tumors and clinical translational applications.
A Review on Recent Advances in Flexible Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Tang Guanqi , Chen Lijun , Cao Xiaolong , Wang Yanghou , Zhang Hongbo , Tai Qidong
Published: January 2025

Flexible perovskite solar cells (FPSCs), featured with lightweight, high efficiency, and low cost, have attracted much attention anticipating in applications on wearable electronics, near‐space vehicles, and internet of things. High efficiency and mechanical stability are two main factors in the study of FPSCs toward practical applications. In recent few years, many breakthroughs in materials modification and device innovation make the power conversion efficiency of FPSCs reach over 25%. A comprehensive review thus is conducted to elucidate the critical issues including flexible substrates, transparent electrodes, charge transport layers, perovskite films, and modifications for mechanical enhancement of FPSCs, which is expected to promote the future development of FPSCs.
Advanced crown‐group Rossellidae (Porifera: Hexactinellida) resembling extant taxa from the Hirnantian (Late Ordovician) Anji Biota
Authors: Botting Joseph P. , Janussen Dorte , Dohrmann Martin , Muir Lucy A. , Zhang Yuandong , Ma Junye
Published: January 2025

Among living hexactinellids (glass sponges), the Rossellidae are one of the most distinctive species‐rich families because of their unique macroscopic characters and, due to the resulting fossil record, are among the most useful for tracing the origins of hexactinellid diversification. Recent discoveries have extended the origin of the total group back to the Ordovician, but these fossils have, so far, all been identified either as stem‐group representatives or as sponges with uncertain interpretation. New material described here from the Hirnantian (latest Ordovician) Anji Biota of Zhejiang, China includes demonstrable crown‐group representatives of the family, which also appear morphologically similar to living genera and may be closely related to them. The new taxa are described as Crateromorpha? (Neopsacas?) macrospicula sp. nov., Pseudanoxycalyx verrucosus gen. et sp. nov., Eorosselloides antiquus gen. et sp. nov. and Archaeaphorme conica gen. et sp. nov. The similarity to modern forms implies extraordinary evolutionary stasis of at least some members of the modern deep‐sea hexactinellid fauna since that time, and suggests that they had an even earlier origin and initial diversification. Possible examples of late Precambrian stem‐group hexactinellids remain ambiguous, potentially implying very rapid evolutionary appearance and divergence of the class during the Cambrian or earlier Ordovician. A possible driver of this evolutionary rate change is the remarkable longevity of modern hexactinellids as an adaptation to cold‐water environments; this potentially offers an explanation for discordances with molecular clock results, which have previously indicated a much later (late Palaeozoic) origin for total‐group Rossellidae.
Hierarchical Porous PbO2 Electrode for Electro‐Degradation of Various Contaminants
Authors: Zhu Yifan , Chen Michelle T. , Feng Yuren , Ai Qing , Liu Yiming , Yan Yunrui , Li Qilin , Lou Jun
Published: January 2025

Persistent organic contaminants in water pose imminent threats to aquatic ecosystems and human health, yet conventional water treatment systems are not able to remove them effectively. Electrochemical oxidation is a promising treatment alternative for the mineralization of persistent organic compounds. Herein, a novel hierarchical porous PbO2 electrode is fabricated via direct electrodeposition on a templated fluorine‐doped tin oxide surface. Physical and electrochemical characterization confirm the superior properties (e.g., enhanced electrochemical active surface areas) of the produced electrode. In addition, compared with macroporous PbO2 and PbO2 electrode films, the hierarchical porous PbO2 electrode shows significantly improved degradation performance against a variety of pollutants, including sodium dodecyl sulfate, rhodamine B, and sodium diclofenac. Overall, it is demonstrated that the hierarchical porous PbO2 electrode can be utilized for efficient electrochemical oxidation of organic contaminants.
Improving K‐12 Teachers' Use of Sheltered Instructional Practices to Support Multilingual Learners: Results From a National Professional Development Grant
Authors: Williams Cody T. , Protacio Maria Selena , David Virginia , Piazza Susan V.
Published: January 2025

According to the Michigan Department of Education, between 2011 and 2017, the number of multilingual learners (MLs) enrolled in K‐12 schools in the state increased by more than 50%. In 2017, the average teacher to ML ratio in the state was an alarmingly low 1:168. To increase the number of teachers prepared to effectively serve MLs, we developed Project English Learners and Teacher Education (ELATE), a professional development program grounded in adult learning theories and centered around the Sheltered Instruction Observation Protocol (SIOP). SIOP is a research‐based instructional framework that aims to prepare teachers to bridge the gap between language and content instruction for MLs. It has the following eight components: lesson preparation, building background, comprehensible input, strategies, interaction, practice/application, lesson delivery, and review and assessment. Limited empirical research suggests that SIOP is a reliable tool for detecting instructional intervention effects. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to (1) add to the empirical research focused on SIOP and (2) determine the impact of an intensive professional development program on in‐service teachers' use of instructional practices for MLs. We implemented a quasi‐experimental study focused on Project ELATE, a 5‐year National Professional Development (NPD) program that trained 170 in‐service teachers in providing quality instruction for MLs. The primary goal of Project ELATE was to improve in‐service teachers’ knowledge and instructional skills for supporting and teaching MLs. Training included graduate courses, clinical experiences, video demonstrations, a conference, and instructional coaching. Data sources included pre‐ and post‐program observations, interviews, and written reflections. Results showed statistically significant SIOP score increases for participants from pre‐ to post‐program on all eight components, while controls showed no significant increases. Overall, the findings provide evidence that Project ELATE significantly improved teachers' ability to use sheltered instructional practices. Qualitative data highlighted that participants benefited from feedback from multiple sources, including an English as a Second Language coach, video observations, and professional learning communities. In summary, this NPD program demonstrated success in improving teachers' instructional practices for MLs.
Developing Teacher‐Leaders for Multilingual Students on the Mexico–United States Border
Authors: Maldonado Saúl I. , Serrano‐Durán Laura , Cuevas‐Antillón Jorge , Jacobo Izela
Published: January 2025

This brief describes how three school districts, one charter school system, a county office of education, and one institution of higher education collaborated to develop the leadership, equity, and access for languages (LEAL) professional development certificate for teacher‐leaders committed to serving multilingual learners on the Mexico–United States border. LEAL was designed and implemented using knowledge, dispositions, and skills for critically conscious pedagogy as the guiding framework to create consensus definitions of teacher‐leaders of multilingual students. Researchers reviewed and interpreted weekly meeting agendas, email correspondence, and the evaluation plan to define and use criteria for the selection of LEAL participants. Researchers implemented an innovative collaborative process of surveys, meetings, and goal‐setting with school district and charter school system administrators to identify current in‐service teachers that would exemplify commitment to serving multilingual learners in their schools and communities. This brief highlights the importance of interinstitutional partnerships for calibrating consistent definitions of teacher‐leaders as well as the value of creating customized seminars and conferences for collegial collaboration across local education agencies (LEAs).
Intervention of a Communication Between PI3K/Akt and β‐Catenin by (−)‐Epigallocatechin‐3‐Gallate Suppresses TGF‐β1‐Promoted Epithelial‐Mesenchymal Transition and Invasive Phenotype of NSCLC Cells
Authors: Hsu Li‐Sung , Lin Chih‐Li , Pan Min‐Hsiung , Chen Wei‐Jen
Published: January 2025

The epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT) assists in the acquisition of invasiveness, relapse, and resistance in non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and can be caused by the signaling of transforming growth factor‐β1 (TGF‐β1) through Smad‐mediated or Smad‐independent pathways. (−)‐Epigallocatechin‐3‐gallate (EGCG), a multifunctional cancer‐preventing bioconstituent found in tea polyphenols, has been shown to repress TGF‐β1‐triggered EMT in the human NSCLC A549 cell line by inhibiting the activation of Smad2 and Erk1/2 or reducing the acetylation of Smad2 and Smad3. However, its impact on the Smad‐independent pathway remains unclear. Here, we found that EGCG, similar to LY294002 (a specific inhibitor of phosphatidylinositol 3‐kinase [PI3K]), downregulated Akt activation and restored the action of glycogen synthase kinase‐3β (GSK‐3β), accompanied by TGF‐β1‐caused changes in hallmarks of EMT such as N‐cadherin, E‐cadherin, vimentin, and Snail in A549 cells. EGCG inhibited β‐catenin expression and its nuclear localization caused by TGF‐β1, suggesting that EGCG blocks the crosstalk between the PI3K/Akt/GSK‐3β route and β‐catenin. Furthermore, it was shown that EGCG suppressed TGF‐β1‐elicited invasive phenotypes of A549 cells, including invading and migrating activities, matrix metalloproteinase‐2 (MMP‐2) secretion, cell adhesion, and wound healing. In summary, we suggest that EGCG inhibits the induction of EMT by TGF‐β1 in NSCLC not only through a Smad‐dependent pathway, but also through the regulation of the PI3K/Akt/β‐catenin signaling axis.
Genome‐wide association study identifies QTL and candidate genes for grain size and weight in a Triticum turgidum collection
Authors: Mangini G. , Nigro D. , Curci P. L. , Simeone R. , Blanco A.
Published: January 2025

Wheat breeders are constantly looking for genes and alleles that increase grain yield. One key strategy is finding new genetic resources in the wild and domesticated gene pools of related species with genes affecting grain size. This study explored a natural population of Triticum turgidum (L.) phenotyped for grain weight and size‐related traits in three field trials and genotyped with single nucleotide polymorphism markers spread across the entire genome. The genome‐wide association study analysis identified 39 quantitative trait loci (QTL) for 1000‐kernel weight, grain length, grain width, grain area, and grain aspect consistent in at least two and across environments. Interestingly, 23 QTL for grain‐related traits were grouped in nine QTL clusters located on chromosomes 1A, 1B, 2B, 3B, 4B, 5A, and 6B, respectively. Moreover, most of these QTL support findings from previous QTL analyses and are further strengthened by the known functions of the genes (such as BG2, GS5, and SRS3) and their similarity to genes in other cereal species. QTL clusters harbored genes that participate in various metabolic processes potentially involved in seed development, phytohormone signaling, sugar transport, mitogen‐activated protein kinases signaling, and transcriptional factors (such as MADS‐box and WRKY). Identifying loci controlling grain‐related traits will provide information on the genetic resources available to breeders to improve grain yield, as well as the opportunity to develop close gene markers to be used in marker‐assisted selection programs.
Playing With Story Workshop in the Literacy Classroom
Authors: Lenters Kimberly , Mosher Ronna , Hanzel Stacey
Published: January 2025

Making connections between children's existing means of expression (play, art, and movement) and the intricacies of print is a necessary and time‐honored approach to writing instruction in the early years of school, yet, after kindergarten, one that is easily overlooked. In this article, we examine an approach to writing instruction for first‐grade children that brings together play and written composition. Story Workshop can be a highly accessible, scaffolded means for developing young children's writing practices and skills. However, it is not an approach that is widely adopted in first‐grade classrooms. The authors consider why this might be by examining the structure of Story Workshop as set out by the Opal School and offering examples of two classroom educators who have fruitfully adapted the approach for their first‐grade learners.
Ethical perspective on telemedicine usage in sexual medicine: A friend or a foe?
Authors: Almuhaideb Mana , Bandaru Dhiresh , Chawareb Elia Abou , Yafi Faysal A. , Hammad Muhammed A. M.
Published: January 2025

Telemedicine has rapidly integrated into healthcare, overcoming initial barriers such as regulatory restrictions and technological limitations. Its role in sexual medicine, especially urology, has been accelerated by technological advances and the COVID‐19 pandemic. However, as telehealth continues to expand, key ethical challenges emerge, including concerns over privacy, healthcare equity, and informed consent. These challenges are particularly important in sexual medicine, where sensitive patient data and intimate conditions are involved. We aimed to examine the ethical implications of telemedicine in sexual medicine, focusing on data security, consent processes, and healthcare disparities. We further emphasize the importance of maintaining high ethical standards while integrating telemedicine as a complement to traditional care, ensuring that patient outcomes are not compromised.
Vaccine‐Induced Immune Thrombotic Thrombocytopenia Caused by Zoetis PR‐VAC PLUS in Pseudorabies Virus‐Free Danish Purebred Pigs
Authors: Chen Chien‐Cheng
Published: January 2025

This case report highlights a potential vaccine safety concern associated with the Pseudorabies virus (PRV) live vaccine, which warrants further investigation for comprehensive understanding. Vaccine‐induced immune thrombotic thrombocytopenia (VITT), a novel syndrome of adverse events following adenovirus vector COVID‐19 vaccines, was observed after vaccination with Zoetis PR‐VAC PLUS. This led to a 100% morbidity and high mortality among PRV‐free Danish purebred pigs from Danish Genetics Co. Clinical signs and gross presentations due to the post‐thrombotic syndrome (PTS) and pulmonary embolism (PE) included (1) PE causing severe pulmonary oedema, which led to shortness of breath and respiratory failure. PTS causing (2) osteochondrosis (OCD)/leg weakness syndrome; (3) acute gastric ulcers and bleeding; (4) haemorrhagic bowel syndrome; (5) myocardial infarction or heart failure and (6) noticeable varicose veins. (7) Thrombocytopenia along with reddish or purplish spots appeared. Definitive diagnosis was based on the following as human medicine: (1) clinical signs appearing 4–42 days post‐vaccination; (2) thrombocytopenia; (3) presence of thrombus in lung vessels, alveolar septa vessels, gastric vessels and small intestine, as well as other organs, as confirmed by histopathologic examination; (4) positive result from anti‐heparin/PF4 ELISA testing. VITT in pigs, not previously reported, could be attributed to several factors: (1) Differences in diagnosing pigs compared to humans, especially considering that VITT associated with COVID‐19 vaccines has only recently been identified. (2) Challenges in linking clinical signs such as pulmonary oedema, OCD/leg weakness, gastric ulcers and haemorrhagic bowel syndrome to thrombosis. (3) Delayed onset of clinical signs 4–42 days post‐vaccination, unlike common vaccine side effects. (4) Clinical signs were varied and illogical, and ranged from mild to moderate with low mortality if there were no other complications or conditions. (5) Difficulty in diagnosing the condition due to the presence of common pathogens like PRRSV and PCV2. (6) Breeding/genetic factors can be an issue when breeders with strong immunity, who may also be highly sensitive to VITT, are selected. The potential problem of VITT might not be detected because no PR vaccine is used in Denmark.
Statistical and numerical analysis of MHD nanofluid (TiO2/EG) flow on a nonlinear curved stretching surface with heat source: A RSM approach
Authors: Sharma Abhishek , Sharma Ram Prakash
Published: January 2025

Many applications in science and engineering use the idea of MHD nanofluid flow past a nonlinear curved stretching surface. Particularly in the development and production of coatings for solar cells, fiber sheets, wires, and optical fibers. From the perspective of such applications, the major objective of existing research is to study the titanium oxide/ethylene glycol (TiO2/EG) nanofluid flow past a nonlinear curved elongating surface in the occurrence of a magnetic field and heat source. In this study, nonlinear coupled partial differential equations with no‐slip and convective boundary constraints have been used to construct the mathematical model that describes the fluid flow. After utilizing the similarity variables, the nondimensional form of equations is approximated by the Runge–Kutta method combined with the Newton iteration scheme. Further, the novelty of the study lies in employing response surface methodology (RSM) to optimize the significance of important factors, which are most likely the Biot number, volume fraction, and the magnetic parameter that impact heat transfer characteristics. This approach facilitates the development of ideal operating conditions for improved performance. In summary, this examination finds that as the volume fraction concentration increases, the shear rate progressively increases, and with a higher Biot number, the heat transfer rate also increases.
Planning Tests, Analysis, Scenarios, Verification, Validation, and Regression
Authors: Myklebust Thor , Stålhane Tor , Vatn Dorthea Mathilde Kristin
Published: January 2025

This chapter focuses on planning tests, analysis, scenarios, verification, validation, and regression testing to ensure the reliability and safety of systems. It outlines the importance of systematic test methodologies, including scenario-based evaluations and simulations, to verify compliance with safety requirements and validate system performance. The chapter emphasizes the role of regression testing in maintaining system integrity after updates, highlighting how agile practices and automated tools can facilitate frequent testing and quicker resolution of potential issues. These methods ensure systems meet safety standards and operate reliably in real-world conditions.
Introduction, Objectives
Authors: Zhuang Yan
Published: January 2025

It is becoming necessary to construct projects on sites that may once have been considered unacceptable in terms of geotechnical issues. This is typified by the need to construct embankments over soft clay foundations.
Geogrid Reinforced Piled Embankment in Plane Strain and Three-Dimensional Conditions
Authors: Zhuang Yan
Published: January 2025

This chapter considers the performance of piled embankments where one or more layers of geotextile or geogrid reinforcement are used at the base of the embankment, for a wide range of piled embankment geometries.
“Everybody knows what a pothole is”: representations of work and intelligence in AI practice and governance
Authors: Bennett SJ , Catanzariti Benedetta , Tollon Fabio
Published: January 2025

In this paper, we empirically and conceptually examine how distributed human–machine networks of labour comprise a form of underlying intelligence within Artificial Intelligence (AI), considering the implications of this for Responsible Artificial Intelligence (R-AI) innovation. R-AI aims to guide AI research, development and deployment in line with certain normative principles, for example fairness, privacy, and explainability; notions implicitly shaped by comparisons of AI with individualised notions of human intelligence. However, as critical scholarship on AI demonstrates, this is a limited framing of the nature of intelligence, both of humans and AI. Furthermore, it dismisses the skills and labour central to developing AI systems, involving a distributed network of human-directed practices and reasoning. We argue that inequities in the agency and recognition of different types of practitioners across these networks of AI development have implications beyond RAI, with narrow framings concealing considerations which are important within broader discussions of AI intelligence. Drawing from interactive workshops conducted with AI practitioners, we explore practices of data acquisition, cleaning, and annotation, as the point where practitioners interface with domain experts and data annotators. Despite forming a crucial part of AI design and development, this type of data work is frequently framed as a tedious, unskilled, and low-value process. In exploring these practices, we examine the political role of the epistemic framings that underpin AI development and how these framings can shape understandings of distributed intelligence, labour practices, and annotators’ agency within data structures. Finally, we reflect on the implications of our findings for developing more participatory and equitable approaches to machine learning applications in the service of R-AI.
Does far-right populism affect immigrants’ working conditions?
Authors: D’Ambrosio Anna , Leombruni Roberto , Razzolini Tiziano
Published: January 2025

Anti-immigrant stances are central in far-right populist propaganda. We investigate whether the electoral success of far-right populist parties affects the labor market conditions of immigrants. Using administrative panel data from Italian manufacturing workers in 1994–2005, we show that higher electoral support for the populist party Lega Nord significantly increases injury risks for foreign workers within job spells. This effect is most pronounced in small firms, which are characterized by lower levels of unionization and employment protection. The increase in injury rates appears driven by task reallocation to overtime and night shifts and to the exploitation of immigrants’ labor supply rigidity. While alternative factors such as import competition and robotization influence injury risk, they fail to explain our core findings.
The algebra of ordinary discourse. On the semantics of Cooper’s logic
Authors: Rivieccio Umberto
Published: January 2025

We develop an algebraic study of W.S. Cooper’s three-valued propositional logic of ordinary discourse (

$$\mathcal{O}\mathcal{L}$$

O
L

). This logic displays a number of unusual features:

$$\mathcal{O}\mathcal{L}$$

O
L

is not weaker but incomparable with classical logic, it is connexive, paraconsistent and contradictory. As a non-structural logic,

$$\mathcal{O}\mathcal{L}$$

O
L

cannot be algebraized by the standard methods. However, we show that

$$\mathcal{O}\mathcal{L}$$

O
L

has an algebraizable structural companion, and determine its equivalent semantics, which turns out to be a finitely-generated discriminator variety. We provide an equational and a twist presentation for this class of algebras, which allow us to compare it with other well-known algebras of non-classical logics. In this way we establish that

$$\mathcal{O}\mathcal{L}$$

O
L

is definitionally equivalent to an expansion of the three-valued logic

$${\mathcal {J}}3$$

J
3

of D’Ottaviano and da Costa, itself a schematic extension of paraconsistent Nelson logic.
Genital graft versus host disease in women after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation – a single center experience
Authors: Wilk Goldsher Yulia , Cohen Sacher Bina , Cohen May , Yeshurun Moshe , Sabah Gad , Eitan Ram , Krissi Haim
Published: January 2025

Chronic Graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) is a major complication of allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT), affecting the female genital tract in 25–66% of the patients. This condition, referred to as Genital GVHD is an underdiagnosed gynecologic comorbidity, that can significantly impair quality of life. We aimed to describe the prevalence and management of genital GVHD following HSCT. This retrospective analysis included women who underwent allogeneic HSCT at a single Bone Marrow Transplantation Unit between 2015 and 2020 and were evaluated at a specialized Vulvo-Vaginal Clinic. Diagnosis and severity of genital GVHD were based on the recommendations by the National Institute of Health (NIH), therapeutic options included topical treatments and surgical interventions. Of the thirty-six patients evaluated, 19.4% were diagnosed with genital GVHD. Patients with genital GVHD were older than those with no-genital GVHD (58.42 vs 47.48 years, p = 0.02), and most of them had concurrent multi-organ chronic GVHD (85.71%). Genital GVHD was mostly symptomatic in our cohort (71.42%), clinical findings at the time of diagnosis corresponded with NIH grade 3 (severe disease) in 57.1% of cases. Topical treatments were initiated for all patients with genital GVHD, one required surgical intervention. Genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM) was diagnosed among 100% of patients with genital GVHD and among 58.62% of patients without genital GVHD (p = 0.08). In the genital GVHD group, adherence to clinical follow up was limited (43.85%). Genital GVHD should be considered as part of chronic GVHD evaluation after allogeneic HSCT. It is associated with advanced age and the presence of chronic systemic GVHD. Impaired quality of life and limited follow-up within this population emphasize the need for increased awareness and early evaluations.
Maternal cell-free DNA in early pregnancy for preeclampsia screening: a systematic review
Authors: Arbuzova Svitlana , Cuckle Howard
Published: January 2025

Purpose

To quantify the separation between maternal blood cell-free (cf)DNA markers in preeclampsia and unaffected pregnancies and compare with existing markers. This approach has not been used in previous studies.

Methods

Comprehensive systematic literature search of PubMed to identify studies measuring total cfDNA, fetal cf(f)DNA or the fetal fraction (FF) in pregnant women. Included—studies of asymptomatic pregnancies with subsequent preeclampsia (cases) and unaffected pregnancies (controls) tested in the first or second trimester and before the clinical onset of preeclampsia. Excluded—studies not reporting the median or mean, standard deviation, inter-quartile range or range in cases and controls. Information from 26 eligible studies was entered into a meta-analysis to estimate, for each marker, the Mahalanobis distance, a measure of separation between the overlapping distributions in preeclampsia and unaffected pregnancies. This was compared with estimates for mean arterial pressure (MAP), uterine artery Doppler pulsatility index (UtA-PI), pregnancy associated plasma protein (PAPP)-A and placental growth factor (PlGF).

Results

The mean Mahalanobis distance for total cfDNA was 0.44 (95% CI 0.12–0.76), which fell between UtA-PI (0.53) and the absolute value of PAPP-A (– 0.36). For cffDNA the distance was 1.03 (0.37–1.69), which is superior to MAP (0.74), UtA-PI, PlGF (– 0.57) and PAPP-A. The distance for FF was – 0.34 (– 0.56 to – 0.12), similar to PAPP-A.

Conclusion

All three markers have a potential preeclampsia screening role, particularly cffDNA. However, to estimate the screening performance in combination with existing markers further large studies are needed. The current analysis will help in the power calculation for such studies.