bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Addressing Negative Effects of Trade Liberalization: Unilateral and Mutually Agreed Flanking Policies
Authors: Pauwelyn Joost , Sieber-Gasser Charlotte
Published: January 2025

The conventional approach to trade liberalization has been to liberalize trade through international agreement and address subsequent domestic fallout and spillovers through domestic policies. In consequence, international obligations in trade liberalization are not legally connected with ‘flanking’ measures to address their negative effects. We discuss the shortcomings of this conventional approach with respect to labor adjustment and environmental protection: for political reasons, trade liberalization requires today the simultaneous regulation of labor and environmental spillovers. We suggest a novel approach to trade liberalization that includes the necessary flanking policies as part of, or linked to, the international agreement itself. This novel approach seeks to achieve the best of both worlds: reaping the benefits of international trade while making sure that negative spillovers are effectively addressed. To illustrate the intricacies of this approach, we introduce a new conceptual framework covering the negative effects of trade liberalization and flanking or mitigating policies, and a proposed novel approach in the form of trade liberalization packages and package treaties. Trade liberalization packages and package treaties are currently emerging around the world (e.g. sustainable palm oil in EFTA–Indonesia) and deserve our close attention.
Psychometric properties of the Short-Form McGill Pain Questionnaire (SF-MPQ) in adult Mexican cancer patients with chronic pain
Authors: Mendoza-Contreras Luis Alberto , Domínguez Trejo Benjamín , Guillén Núñez María del Rocío , Rodríguez Medina David Alberto , Pardo Xolyanetzin Montero , Estapé Tania , Vázquez Oscar Galindo
Published: January 2025

Background

Pain is a frequent symptom in cancer patients (CP), and its multidimensional assessment is essential for a comprehensive approach and to establish clinical prognoses. The Short-Form McGill Pain Questionnaire (SF-MPQ) is an internationally recognized tool for the multidimensional assessment of pain, both in clinical and research settings. However, no studies have been reported in Latin America that determine its psychometric properties in CP and chronic pain.

Objectives

To determine the psychometric properties of the SF-MPQ in adult Mexican cancer patients with chronic pain.

Methods

An instrumental design was used with a non-probabilistic convenience sample of 222 cancer patients treated at the pain clinic of a tertiary care hospital. Analyses were conducted to evaluate factorial structure (exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis [CFA]), reliability (internal consistency), measurement invariance, and criterion validity (concurrent and divergent).

Results

CFA verified a 9-item structure divided into 2 factors: (1) Affective-Nociceptive and (2) Neuropathic. A global Cronbach’s alpha coefficient of .82 and a global McDonald’s Omega index of .82 were identified. Configural, metric, and scalar invariance (ΔCFI ≤ .01; ΔRMSEA ≤ .015) were confirmed regarding the sex variable. Finally, the SF-MPQ showed a positive correlation with the Numerical Rating Scale (rho = .436, p< .01) and a negative correlation with the EORTC-QLQ C30 (rho = −.396, p< .01).

Significance of results

The Mexican version of the SF-MPQ presented adequate psychometric properties and fit indices, making it a valid and reliable instrument for use in clinical and research settings in Mexico. Its use is recommended for the comprehensive assessment of pain in oncology in Mexico, as it allows for the understanding of pain characteristics beyond intensity, guiding the establishment of clinical prognoses.
Speaking Truth to Power Structures: Integrity and Identity in Ecclesiology
Authors: Percy Martyn
Published: January 2025

Speaking truth ought to be normative in churches, and yet when it does, the foundations and structures of power are often shaken to the core. This paper explores the issues of identity and integrity in ecclesiology and is concerned with the ethical paradigms and moral frameworks that need to be in place if churches are to be places where honesty and truthfulness can be normative. Churches often fail as institutions because they presume they can conduct their affairs as organizations might. Churches become anger-averse, resisting the voices and experiences of victims, in order that the flow of power and its structures are unimpeded. At that point, churches become inherently committed to re-abusing victims and are unable to hear their pain and protests, which only leads to the perpetration of further abuse.
Towards a Safe Church: More Than a Lambeth Call
Authors: King Fergus J. , Banks Alexandra , Sebahene Alfred , Aye Nant Hnin Hnin , Mndolwa Maimbo W.F. , Chama Albert
Published: January 2025

This paper gives definitions of terms which have become critical in ensuring that Anglican churches minimize the risk of harm to all who are involved as practitioners or recipients of its ministries. This imperative is rooted in Scripture, not just the recent history or pronouncements of the Lambeth Conference 2022. The terms ‘Safeguarding’, ‘Safe Ministry’ and ‘Safe Church’ (SC) are set out with reference to the ‘Lambeth Calls’. This paper explores why such terms have come to the forefront of current theological praxis, notes historical iterations of such matters and asks why some Anglican churches or provinces may resist adopting this Lambeth Call. It offers both an apologetic for the universal adoption of SC practices and a scriptural and dominical mandate for them. The paper identifies theological and scriptural principles on which SC theory and practice might be grounded. Anglican churches and provinces are encouraged to develop a theory and practice of SC pertinent to their environment rather than adhere to abstract universal prescriptions which risk irrelevance amidst cultural and contextual particularity.
‘There Isn’t One!’ Church of England Safeguarding Policy
Authors: Stein Josephine Anne
Published: January 2025

Policy and professionalism go hand in hand. When safeguarding policy is all but absent as it is in the Church of England, it leaves clergy and others ill equipped to diagnose or to respond to concerns over abuse. Complex issues such as conflict of interest, evaluation based on verifiable objectives linked to safeguarding priorities, setting a balance between confidentiality and disclosure, safe recruitment and implementing the recommendations of safeguarding reviews are in effect left dangling. Expertise and professional judgement are needed both to develop policy and to apply it in real-world cases of prospective and actual abuse. Statistics about safeguarding cases covering associated resources, expenditure and outcomes are not readily available. Safeguarding reviews, mostly about particular cases, are difficult to generalise and ‘lessons learned’ are typically left at that without evidence of how safeguarding has changed as a result. The focus of safeguarding should be on the welfare of the people concerned, including survivors and perpetrators as well as congregations and church workers. Confrontational and legalistic approaches are all too common and do more harm than good. The objective should be to restore broken relationships, not necessarily between the survivor and the perpetrator, but between everyone involved in the case and the church.
God’s Timelessness, Our Temporal Nature
Authors: Bayer Roberta Lynne
Published: January 2025

The timeless and unchanging nature of God was defended by Dr. Eric Mascall throughout his books. He argued against process theology, and in particular the works of mathematician and philosopher Alfred North Whitehead, who was one of its foremost exponents. In his books, Mascall defended the distinction between our temporal and created nature and God’s divine and uncreated nature as found in historic theology. In a manner suited to his learning, he discussed the implications of modern physics for theology.
An Anglican nouvelle théologie: Eric Mascall on Christ and the Church
Authors: Williams Rowan
Published: January 2025

An article reviewing the work of Eric Mascall and suggesting that he is developing an Anglican nouvelle théologie. The importance of Mascall’s work on Christ and the Church is also explored.
Phenological patterns and the impact of seed burial depth and scarification on the emergence and growth of redweed (Melochia corchorifolia)
Authors: Unnikrishnan Dhanu , Raj Sheeja K , Jacob D , Pillai Shalini P , Ameena M , Chauhan Bhagirath Singh
Published: January 2025

Redweed is a tropical, erect branched herb, and one of the predominant broadleaf weeds affecting upland crops in the Onattukara Sandy Plains of Kerala, India. Experiments were conducted in a screenhouse in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India, to determine the effects of seed burial depth and seed scarification on emergence indices and growth attributes of redweed. Scarification stimulated emergence and resulted in greater values for emergence indices and seedling parameters. The seedling emergence of redweed was influenced by seed burial depth. Shallow seed burial (2 cm) of scarified and non-scarified seeds resulted in greater seedling length (70 cm and 58 cm, respectively), seedling biomass (0.72 g and 0.48 g, respectively), emergence percentage (60% and 32%, respectively), and greater values for other emergence indices. As the depth of seed burial increased from 2 cm, emergence and seedling biomass decreased, exhibiting lower values for the emergence indices. Correlation and regression studies revealed that seed burial depth of scarified and non-scarified seeds greater than 2 cm had a negative effect on seedling emergence and biomass of redweed. Weed biology studies indicated that redweed displayed notable consistency in its phenological traits, regardless of the location where the seeds were collected, as little ecotype variability was observed. Emergence occurred in 6 d, 50% flowering in 44 d, capsule formation in 56 d, and maturity in 76 d. On average, a single plant produced 277 seeds and had a 100-seed weight of 0.31 g. A stale seedbed with shallow tillage or deep plowing to a depth of 10 cm before sowing can be adopted to reduce the infestation of redweed.
The mutational landscape of Staphylococcus aureus during colonisation
Authors: Coll Francesc , Blane Beth , Bellis Katherine L. , Matuszewska Marta , Wonfor Toska , Jamrozy Dorota , Toleman Michelle S. , Geoghegan Joan A. , Parkhill Julian , Massey Ruth C. , Peacock Sharon J. , Harrison Ewan M.
Published: January 2025

Staphylococcus aureus is an important human pathogen and a commensal of the human nose and skin. Survival and persistence during colonisation are likely major drivers of S. aureus evolution. Here we applied a genome-wide mutation enrichment approach to a genomic dataset of 3060 S. aureus colonization isolates from 791 individuals. Despite limited within-host genetic diversity, we observed an excess of protein-altering mutations in metabolic genes, in regulators of quorum-sensing (agrA and agrC) and in known antibiotic targets (fusA, pbp2, dfrA and ileS). We demonstrated the phenotypic effect of multiple adaptive mutations in vitro, including changes in haemolytic activity, antibiotic susceptibility, and metabolite utilisation. Nitrogen metabolism showed the strongest evidence of adaptation, with the assimilatory nitrite reductase (nasD) and urease (ureG) showing the highest mutational enrichment. We identified a nasD natural mutant with enhanced growth under urea as the sole nitrogen source. Inclusion of 4090 additional isolate genomes from 731 individuals revealed eight more genes including sasA/sraP, darA/pstA, and rsbU with signals of adaptive variation that warrant further characterisation. Our study provides a comprehensive picture of the heterogeneity of S. aureus adaptive changes during colonisation, and a robust methodological approach applicable to study in host adaptive evolution in other bacterial pathogens.
Maternal asthma imprints fetal lung ILC2s via glucocorticoid signaling leading to worsened allergic airway inflammation in murine adult offspring
Authors: Takao Tomoaki , Matsui Ako , Kikutake Chie , Kan-o Keiko , Inoue Azusa , Suyama Mikita , Okamoto Isamu , Ito Minako
Published: January 2025

The root of asthma can be linked to early life, with prenatal environments influencing risk. We investigate the effects of maternal asthma on the offspring’s lungs during fetal and adult life. Adult offspring of asthmatic mothers show an increase in lung group 2 innate lymphoid cell (ILC2) number and function with allergen-induced lung inflammation. Offspring of asthmatic mothers show phenotypic alteration of their lung ILC2s during fetal life, with increased expression of genes related to activation and glucocorticoid signaling. Furthermore, these offspring carry overlapping chromatin-accessible altered regions, including glucocorticoid receptor-binding regions in their lung ILC2s both at the fetal stage and adulthood, suggesting persistent prenatal epigenetic changes. Moreover, maternal exposure to glucocorticoids has similar effects on fetal lung ILC2s and contributes to allergen-induced lung inflammation during adulthood. Thus, asthma during pregnancy may have long-term effects on lung ILC2s in the offspring from the embryonic period, contributing to an increased risk of developing asthma.
Assessing the impact of energy coaching with smart technology interventions to alleviate energy poverty
Authors: Llewellyn Joseph , Venverloo Titus , Duarte Fabio , Ratti Carlo , Katzeff Cecilia , Johansson Fredrik , Pargman Daniel
Published: January 2025

Energy poverty affects 550,000 homes in the Netherlands yet policy interventions to alleviate this issue are rare. Therefore, we test two energy coaching interventions in Amsterdam: a static information group (n = 67) which received energy efficient products and one energy-use report, and a smart information group (n = 50), which also had a display providing real-time feedback on energy-use. Results across both groups, show a 75% success rate for alleviating energy poverty. On average homes reduced monthly electricity consumption by 62 kWh (33%), gas by 41 m3 (42%), bills by €104 (53%) and percentage of income spent on energy from 10.1% to 5.3%.
Illuminating the impact of CD38-induced adenosine formation in B-cell lymphoma
Authors: Zaiema Shams ElDoha Galal ElDin , Hafez Heba Mohamed Saber , El-Ela Diaa El-Din Moussa Sherif Abou , Saad Rawda Ahmed Alaaeldin Ahmed Mohamed
Published: January 2025

The expression of CD38 by cancer cells may mediate an immune-suppressive effect by producing Extracellular Adenosine (ADO) acting through G-protein-coupled cell surface receptors on cellular components and tumor cells. This can increase PD-1 expression and interaction with PD-L1, suppressing CD8 + cytotoxic T cells. This study examines the impact of heightened CD38 expression and extracellular ADO on various hematological and clinical parameters in patients with mature B-cell lymphoma, alongside their correlation with the soluble counterparts of the PD-1/PD-L1 axis. Our study was conducted on 90 patients, CD38-positive and CD38-negative (measured by flow cytometry), with mature B-cell lymphoma divided into CLL and B-NHL subtypes. Their serum ADO, soluble PD-1, and PD-L1 levels were measured using a sandwich ELISA. Our study revealed a positive correlation between CD38 expression, sADO, sPD-1, and sPD-L1 in mature B-cell lymphoma patients. CD38-positive patients had higher sADO, sPD-1, and sPD-L1 levels. Higher CD38 expression and extracellular ADO negatively affected HB level and PLT count and positively correlated with the higher risk stratification in mature B-cell lymphoma patients. This study explored the potential impact of CD38 expression and elevated extracellular ADO on B-cell lymphoma alongside their link with the PD-1/PD-L1 axis. Our findings underscore the influence of extracellular ADO on the neoplastic process of mature B-cell lymphoma. We also propose targeting the CD38-induced-ADO formation pathway, which could serve as a promising therapeutic immune target with multifaceted effects within mature B-cell neoplasms.
Strong immune responses and robust protection following a novel protein in adjuvant tuberculosis vaccine candidate
Authors: Korompis Marcellus , De Voss Christopher J , Li Shuailin , Richard Alexandre , Almujri Salem Salman , Ateere Alberta , Frank Géraldine , Lemoine Céline , McShane Helen , Stylianou Elena
Published: January 2025

BCG remains the only licensed vaccine for tuberculosis (TB), but its efficacy wanes over time. Subunit vaccines, aim to improve BCG immunity and protection, by inducing responses to a few mycobacterial antigens delivered with a specific platform. Since the platform shapes the immune response induced, selecting the right platform has been challenging due to the lack of immune correlates of protection. Recently, the protein-adjuvated subunit vaccine. M72/AS01E, demonstrated 49.7% efficacy in preventing active TB in latently infected adults, indicating that protective immunity through subunit vaccines is possible. In this study we evaluated the immunogenicity and efficacy of the promising mycobacterial antigen PPE15, formulated with five adjuvants developed by the Vaccine Formulation Institute. While all adjuvants were immunogenic, PPE15 with LMQ protected vaccinated mice against an in vivo Mycobacterium tuberculosis challenge, both as a standalone vaccine and as a boost to BCG. Vaccinated mice had enriched lung parenchymal antigen-specific CD4 + CXCR3 + KLRG1− T cells previously associated with TB protection. Heterologous vaccination strategies were also explored by combining intranasal ChAdOx1.PPE15 viral vector, with intramuscular PPE15-LMQ resulting in improved protection compared to individual vaccines. These findings support the progression of this vaccine candidate to the next stages of development.
Efficient adsorptive removal of Congo Red dye using activated carbon derived from Spathodea campanulata flowers
Authors: Sudarsan Sujesh , Murugesan Gokulakrishnan , Varadavenkatesan Thivaharan , Vinayagam Ramesh , Selvaraj Raja
Published: January 2025

This report investigates the preparation, characterization, and application of activated carbon derived from Spathodea campanulata flowers (SCAC) to remove Congo Red (CR) dye from aqueous streams. SCAC was synthesized using orthophosphoric acid activation which yielded a mesoporous material with a specific surface area of (986.41 m2/g), significantly exceeding values reported for flower-derived activated carbons in the available literature. Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) image revealed an irregular, rough surface morphology pre-adsorption, which became smoother post-adsorption, indicating successful CR attachment. Elemental analysis through energy-dispersive x-ray spectroscopy (EDS) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) confirmed an increase in carbon content and the appearance of sulfur, verifying CR uptake. Adsorption kinetics obeyed the pseudo-second-order equation, signifying chemisorption, while the equilibrium dataset fitted better to the Langmuir model, with R2 of 0.9944, suggesting a monolayer adsorption mechanism with a maximum adsorption capacity of 59.27 mg/g. Thermodynamic analysis revealed spontaneous and endothermic adsorption process. Desorption studies showed methanol as the most effective desorbing agent, with SCAC retaining considerable adsorption capacity across six cycles, highlighting its reusability. In tests with real water matrices, SCAC demonstrated significantly higher removal efficiency in natural waters than control, suggesting enhanced adsorption in complex matrices. These findings underscore the practical applicability of SCAC in real-world wastewater treatment, offering a promising solution for large-scale industrial applications.
Spermine driven water deficit tolerance in early growth phases of sweet corn genotypes under hydroponic cultivation
Authors: Zargar Tahoora Batool , Sobh Mawia , Basal Oqba , Janda Tibor , Pál Magda , Veres Szilvia
Published: January 2025

Sweet corn is highly susceptible to water deprivation, making it crucial to identify effective strategies for enhancing its tolerance to water deficit conditions. This study investigates the novel application of Spermine as a bio-stimulant to improve sweet corn (Zea mays L. var. saccharata) resilience under hydroponic water deficit conditions. Four genotypes (Dessert, Messenger, Tyson, and Royalty) were treated with Spermine (0.2 mM foliar application), polyethylene glycol 6000 (8% and 12%), and their combinations. The impacts on growth parameters, photosynthetic performance, and oxidative stress markers were evaluated. Spermine significantly enhanced biomass parameters, counteracting the severe reductions caused by PEG-induced water deprivation. In the Dessert and Tyson genotypes, total biomass increased by 145%, while it increased by 118% in Messenger and 110% in Royalty when treated with Spermine under severe water deprivation. However, Spermine treatment application did not recorded higher differences compared to control under non water deficit conditions. In the Dessert genotype, root length increased by 36.6% under combined treatment compared to 12% PEG alone. Spermine also mitigated reductions in shoot length, improved by 90.6% and specific leaf area, with a notable 272.6% increase in Tyson under severe water deficit. Photosynthetic performance, including chlorophyll and carotenoid levels, was enhanced, with a 103.1% increase in relative chlorophyll content in Dessert under severe water deprivation. Spermine also reduced oxidative damage, as indicated by a 48.7% decrease in malondialdehyde levels in Tyson, and increased peroxidase activity, enhancing antioxidant defense in Messenger under severe water deprivation. The quantum efficiency of Photosystem II, which was significantly reduced by water deficit, showed substantial improvement with Spermine treatment, with increases of 107.2% in Tyson and 99.4% in Royalty under moderate water deprivation. These results highlight the potential of Spermine as an effective strategy to improve sweet corn resilience under water-limited conditions, offering a novel approach for sustainable crop management.
Predictive equation derived from 6,497 doubly labelled water measurements enables the detection of erroneous self-reported energy intake
Authors: Bajunaid Rania , Niu Chaoqun , Hambly Catherine , Liu Zongfang , Yamada Yosuke , Aleman-Mateo Heliodoro , Anderson Liam J. , Arab Lenore , Baddou Issad , Bandini Linda , Bedu-Addo Kweku , Blaak Ellen E. , Bouten Carlijn V. C. , Brage Soren , Buchowski Maciej S. , Butte Nancy F. , Camps Stefan G. J. A. , Casper Regina , Close Graeme L. , Cooper Jamie A. , Cooper Richard , Das Sai Krupa , Davies Peter S. W. , Dabare Prasangi , Dugas Lara R. , Eaton Simon , Ekelund Ulf , Entringer Sonja , Forrester Terrence , Fudge Barry W. , Gillingham Melanie , Goris Annelies H. , Gurven Michael , El Hamdouchi Asmaa , Haisma Hinke H. , Hoffman Daniel , Hoos Marije B. , Hu Sumei , Joonas Noorjehan , Joosen Annemiek M. , Katzmarzyk Peter , Kimura Misaka , Kraus William E. , Kriengsinyos Wantanee , Kuriyan Rebecca , Kushner Robert F. , Lambert Estelle V. , Lanerolle Pulani , Larsson Christel L. , Leonard William R. , Lessan Nader , Löf Marie , Martin Corby K. , Matsiko Eric , Medin Anine C. , Morehen James C. , Morton James P. , Must Aviva , Neuhouser Marian L. , Nicklas Theresa A. , Nyström Christine D. , Ojiambo Robert M. , Pietiläinen Kirsi H. , Pitsiladis Yannis P. , Plange-Rhule Jacob , Plasqui Guy , Prentice Ross L. , Racette Susan B. , Raichlen David A. , Ravussin Eric , Redman Leanne M. , Reilly John J. , Reynolds Rebecca , Roberts Susan B. , Samaranayakem Dulani , Sardinha Luis B. , Silva Analiza M. , Sjödin Anders M. , Stamatiou Marina , Stice Eric , Urlacher Samuel S. , Van Etten Ludo M. , van Mil Edgar G. A. H. , Wilson George , Yanovski Jack A. , Yoshida Tsukasa , Zhang Xueying , Murphy-Alford Alexia J. , Sinha Srishti , Loechl Cornelia U. , Luke Amy H. , Pontzer Herman , Rood Jennifer , Sagayama Hiroyuki , Schoeller Dale A. , Westerterp Klaas R. , Wong William W. , Speakman John R.
Published: January 2025

Nutritional epidemiology aims to link dietary exposures to chronic disease, but the instruments for evaluating dietary intake are inaccurate. One way to identify unreliable data and the sources of errors is to compare estimated intakes with the total energy expenditure (TEE). In this study, we used the International Atomic Energy Agency Doubly Labeled Water Database to derive a predictive equation for TEE using 6,497 measures of TEE in individuals aged 4 to 96 years. The resultant regression equation predicts expected TEE from easily acquired variables, such as body weight, age and sex, with 95% predictive limits that can be used to screen for misreporting by participants in dietary studies. We applied the equation to two large datasets (National Diet and Nutrition Survey and National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey) and found that the level of misreporting was >50%. The macronutrient composition from dietary reports in these studies was systematically biased as the level of misreporting increased, leading to potentially spurious associations between diet components and body mass index.
Glycogen synthase GYS1 overactivation contributes to glycogen insolubility and malto-oligoglucan-associated neurodegenerative disease
Authors: Nitschke Silvia , Montalbano Alina P , Whiting Megan E , Smith Brandon H , Mukherjee-Roy Neije , Marchioni Charlotte R , Sullivan Mitchell A , Zhao Xiaochu , Wang Peixiang , Mount Howard , Verma Mayank , Minassian Berge A , Nitschke Felix
Published: January 2025

Polyglucosans are glycogen molecules with overlong chains, which are hyperphosphorylated in the neurodegenerative Lafora disease (LD). Brain polyglucosan bodies (PBs) cause fatal neurodegenerative diseases including Lafora disease and adult polyglucosan body disease (ABPD), for which treatments, biomarkers, and good understanding of their pathogenesis are currently missing. Mutations in the genes for the phosphatase laforin or the E3 ubiquitin ligase malin can cause LD. By depleting PTG, an activator of the glycogen chain-elongating enzyme glycogen synthase (GYS1), in laforin- and malin-deficient LD mice, we show that abnormal glycogen chain lengths and not hyperphosphorylation underlie polyglucosan formation, and that polyglucosan bodies induce neuroinflammation. We provide evidence indicating that a small pool of overactive GYS1 contributes to glycogen insolubility in LD and APBD. In contrast to previous findings, metabolomics experiments using in situ-fixed brains reveal only modest metabolic changes in laforin-deficient mice. These changes are not replicated in malin-deficient or APBD mice, and are not normalized in rescued LD mice. Finally, we identify a pool of metabolically volatile malto-oligoglucans as a polyglucosan body- and neuroinflammation-associated brain energy source, and promising candidate biomarkers for LD and APBD, including malto-oligoglucans and the neurodegeneration marker CHI3L1/YKL40.
RNA-binding proteins as versatile metabolic regulators
Authors: Koletsou Ellie , Huppertz Ina
Published: January 2025

Metabolic shifts are a hallmark of numerous biological processes, including the differentiation of stem cells along a specific lineage and the activation of diverse cell types, such as immune cells. This review examines the intricate energy metabolic alterations that occur in diverse biological settings, from embryonic development to adult tissue homoeostasis and disease states. In particular, we emphasise the regulatory function of RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) in coordinating these metabolic shifts and examine how they modulate key pathways, such as glycolysis and oxidative phosphorylation, to meet the dynamic cellular energy demands. This review highlights the various mechanisms by which RBPs regulate these changes, ranging from active involvement in the post-transcriptional regulation of metabolically relevant genes to alteration of an RBP’s function by specific RNAs, metabolites or growth factors. Finally, we consider how ageing and disease affect the function of RBPs and how RBPs can disrupt the delicate balance of metabolic regulation. Taken together, this review provides a comprehensive overview of the critical interplay between RBPs and metabolism and offers insights into potential therapeutic targets for regenerative medicine and age-related diseases.
Psychological profile of patients with Brugada syndrome and the impact of its diagnosis and management
Authors: Santoro Francesco , Di Biase Luigi , Curcio Antonio , Margaglione Alessandra , Tritto Massimo , Baldi Enrico , Ragnatela Ilaria , Anselmino Matteo , Nigro Gerardo , Leccisotti Ivana , Altamura Mario , Bellomo Antonello , Brunetti Natale Daniele , Rapacciuolo Antonio ,   On behalf of the working group on electrophysiology and cardiac pacing of the Italian Society of Cardiology, Di Biase Luigi
Published: January 2025

Brugada syndrome (BrS) is an arrhythmic hereditary disorder affecting mainly males, aged 30–50 years. Type D personality has a prevalence of 32.7% among BrS patients and 15% of these patients have an history of psychiatric disorders. One out of six BrS patients could develop anxiety/depression after BrS diagnosis or after the implantation of a defibrillator. This review evaluates the psychological profile of BrS patients, the impact of its diagnosis, and potential tools to evaluate these features.
Ultrafine fiber-mediated transvascular interventional photothermal therapy using indocyanine green for precision embolization treatment
Authors: Ma Yingao , Xiao Jingyu , Chen Gina Jinna , Dang Hong , Zhang Yaran , He Xiaoqin , Shum Perry Ping , Guo Qiongyu
Published: January 2025

A transvascular interventional photothermal therapy was developed to simultaneously deliver photothermal agents while performing laser irradiation via an endovascular route for precision embolization treatment.
Recent advances in the preparation, properties, and applications of lignin-based hydrogels and adhesives
Authors: Huo Linmeng , Lu Yumiao , Ding Wei-Lu , Wang Yanlei , Li Xuehui , He Hongyan
Published: January 2025

The synthesis, characterization, and application of lignin-based hydrogels and adhesives are reviewed, highlighting their role in the advancement of sustainable biomedicine, flexible sensing, energy storage technologies, and wood adhesives.
Electronic and magnetic properties of GeP monolayer modulated by Ge vacancies and doping with Mn and Fe transition metals
Authors: Van Ngoc Hoang , Van On Vo , Thuy Huynh Thi Phuong , Guerrero-Sanchez J. , Hoat D. M.
Published: January 2025

A GeP monolayer with a double-layer hexagonal structure with good stability has been predicted. Further, doping- and vacancy-assisted magnetism engineering of the GeP monolayer is investigated towards spintronic applications.
Electrochemically grafted molecular layers as on-chip energy storage molecular junctions
Authors: Kaur Rajwinder , Malik Ankur , Gupta Ritu , Kumari Kusum , Singh Saurabh Kumar , Bueno Paulo Roberto , Chandra Mondal Prakash
Published: January 2025

Electrochemically grown heteroatoms containing organic films utilized to fabricate crossbar molecular junctions as classical capacitors for energy storage applications.
Improved electrochemical performance of nitrogen-containing copper-based 1D metal organic framework derived from highly connective pyridine-2,4,6-tricarboxylic acid for hybrid supercapacitors
Authors: Shahbaz Muhammad , Sharif Shahzad , Mushtaq Muhammad Waheed , Ghaznazvi Zainab , Iqbal Zaeema , Khurshid Muhammad Aqib , Şahin Onur , Shahzad Sundas , Saeed Maham , Shahzad Ayesha
Published: January 2025

Extended metal-to-ligand bonding and π–π interactions in 1D MOF can boost the charge transport process and ultimately improve electrochemical applications.
Specific crystallographic site occupancy induced water stability: towards facilitating ‘aqueous processing’ of ‘layered’ Na-transition metal oxide cathodes for Na-ion batteries
Authors: Kumar Bachu Sravan , Goswami Adrija , Kumar Rahul , Zheng Xiaoran , Paidi Anil K. , Paidi Vinod K. , Yadav Brijesh , Kwon Ik Seon , Lee Kug-Seung , Ahn Docheon , Chatterjee Abhijit , Sharma Neeraj , Mukhopadhyay Amartya
Published: January 2025

Precise positioning of cation at tetrahedral site of Na-layer renders ‘layered’ Na-transition metal oxide totally water-stable by directly blocking the spontaneous Na+/H+ exchange pathway, facilitating ‘aqueous’ processing of such cathodes for SIBs.
SnO2 modified CsH2PO4 (CDP) protonic electrolyte for an electrochemical hydrogen pump
Authors: Gupta Minal , Zhang Kangkang , Huang Kevin
Published: January 2025

Hydrophilic SnO2 is introduced into CsH2PO4 (CDP) to mitigate CDP's dehydration at lower partial pressure of steam, thus retaining proton conductivity.
Speech-Language Pathologists' Experiences Working With Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Families: A Scoping Review
Authors: Sinclair Rachel L. , Finke Erinn H. , Wu Lin
Published: January 2025

Introduction:

Evidence-based practices (EBPs) use evidence (external and internal), clinician expertise, and client/caregiver perspectives to deliver effective, individualized care. Each component of EBP is highly relevant and most effective when implemented together. Families with cultural or linguistic backgrounds different from the mainstream experience inequitable treatment across all disciplines. As the United States' population becomes increasingly diverse, it is paramount for speech-language pathologists (SLPs) to obtain education and support to provide evidence-based, culturally responsive care.

Method:

This study conducted a scoping review to determine what is known regarding SLPs' perspectives and experiences working with families or children with different cultural or linguistic backgrounds. Articles were included if they (a) contained empirical novel data, were available in English, were peer-reviewed, and were published; (b) included experiences of SLPs who self-reported that they work with children and/or families with cultural and/or linguistic backgrounds different from themselves or the regional mainstream; and (c) reported effects of cultural or linguistic difference on SLP service provision.

Results:

Results indicated that SLPs encounter many barriers but often exhibit culturally responsive clinical decision making through the consideration of evidence (external and internal) and their clinical expertise and opinion. Multiple strategies for increasing culturally responsive care and areas that would benefit from further research and systemic change were identified.

Discussion:

Barriers and solutions to culturally responsive care represented two areas of needed change: personal and within system. Though not all change may occur immediately, the present study offers suggested solutions for SLPs to implement in their clinical practice for increased culturally responsive care.

Supplemental Material:

https://doi.org/10.23641/asha.28119836
Fine‐grained multi‐path channel estimation and matched reception by single metasurface antenna
Authors: Hao Yinuo , Jin Liang , Xiao Shuaifang
Published: January 2025

This paper investigates methods to enhance antenna's channel information extraction capabilities in wireless communications, particularly in challenging multi‐path environments. Focusing on the issues of channel information loss due to multi‐path superposition at the receiver and multi‐path fading during wireless channel propagation, this paper utilizes metasurface antennas to rapidly reconfigure antenna patterns and construct high‐dimensional projection spaces, thus improving information sensing resolution. Based on this, a channel‐matched receiving pattern design method is proposed to mitigate the communication performance loss caused by multi‐path fading. Furthermore, this paper analyses the comprehensive impact of various metasurface parameters on the performance of the proposed scheme, providing theoretical guidance for engineering implementation. Simulation results demonstrate that the proposed scheme can achieve the performance of multi‐path channel estimation and reception close to those of multi‐antenna arrays using a single radio frequency link.
4.5-Year Follow-up with a Novel Corneal Endothelial Prosthesis
Authors: Lapid-Gortzak Ruth , van der Meulen Ivanka
Published: January 2025

Background Refractory corneal edema is the foremost reason for endothelial corneal transplantation (EK) in the world. Descemet membrane endothelial keratoplasty (DMEK) and Descemet stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty (DSAEK) offer good clinical outcomes. However, human donor tissue is limited in availability and has a complex logistical chain. Many patients in need do not have access to EK. Success of the human donor tissue depends on its quality, the number of rebubbles, repeat keratoplasties, and patient-related risk factors. The use of an endothelial corneal keratoprosthesis could benefit patients with a high risk for graft failure and human graft rejection, and patients in underserved areas where tissue banking is unavailable.

Patients and Methods Case cohort series of 10 eyes of 10 patients implanted with the EndoArt, with a follow-up of up to 4.5 years. Outcome measures are device adherence, central corneal thickness, visual acuity, and incidence of adverse events.

Results In the first seven eyes, the EndoArt was implanted in eyes with low visual potential within the first-in-human (FIH) trial, and in the three remaining eyes, implantation was performed because of either guarded posterior or anterior segment prognosis or the patientʼs wishes. In 9/10 eyes, device adherence was obtained and maintained throughout the follow-up period. Mean corneal thickness decreased from 927 + SD 241 microns to 621 + SD 140 microns. In 6/10 eyes, visual acuity improved from a mean preoperative value of logMAR 1.94 + 0.63 to a mean postoperative value of logMAR 0.8 + 0.64. No pathological thinning or corneal metabolic changes were seen. The surgical technique was developed during the follow-up period.

Conclusion The EndoArt provided a stable decrease in central corneal thickness, improved vision in 60% of eyes, and had no device-related adverse events. The EndoArt is an additional treatment modality for special cases like repeat corneal graft failure in the population of the Western world, or as a primary procedure in underserved areas worldwide.
On the mechanism of quantum diffusion in solid hydrogen
Authors: Krivchikov A. I. , Bagatskii M. I. , Manzhelii V. G. , Minchina I. Ya. , Muromtsev P. I.
Published: January 2025

An attempt is made to detect the quantum diffusion of paradeuterium in parahydrogen. Quantum diffusion can occur in this system only through a tunneling mass transfer of molecules. The investigation of the time dependence of the heat capacity of the p-D2 solution (0.94%) in p-H2 over a period of 290 h (T = 1.7 K) did not reveal any quantum diffusion. This means that the characteristic time of configurational relaxation is τ > 1·104 h. It is concluded that quantum diffusion in hydrogen is realized by a tunnel transfer of the angular momentum of molecules. The temperature dependence of the heat capacity of the solution is investigated in the temperature range between 0.5 and 6 K.
Weakly bound oxygen and the superconductivity of YBa2Cu3Ox
Authors: Prisedskii V. V. , Mikheenko P. N. , Ivanchenko Yu. M. , Sukharevskii B. Ya. , Shatalova G. E. , Gusakova L. G. , Malyshev E. N. , Roizenblat E. M. , Sukhorukova N. É. , Udodov I. A. , Klimov V. V.
Published: January 2025

The oxygen content and its influence (during subsequent cooling) on the superconducting properties of the metaloxide ceramic YBa2Cu3Ox are measured at temperatures (T) 300−1000 °C under partial pressures (pO2) 10−105 Pa. The position of the oxygen isoconcentrates for 6.2 < x < 7 is determined from the pO2-T diagram by gravimetric method with absolute calibration by reduction to metallic copper. It is shown that the oxygen in the compound exists in the strongly bound form (6 g-atom/mol.) and in a weakly bound form which is responsible for superconductivity. The amount δ of weakly bound oxygen is determined by quenching the samples in liquid hydrogen. The nature of correlation of δ with the critical temperature Tc and the diamagnetic response LYBCO is reconstructed. It is found that the shape of the LYBCO(δ) and Tc (δ) is in accord with the formation of stoichiometric ionic crystals with Cul+ , Cu2+, and Cu3+ ions in the basal plane of the compound for δ = 0, 0.5, and 1, respectively. It is established that for x < 6.5, the metaloxide ceramic YBa2Cu3Ox exists in a tetragonal superconducting phase.
Nonlinear antiferromagnetic resonance in two-dimensional (C2H5NH3)2MnCI4
Authors: Stepanov A. A. , Zvyagin A. I. , Volotskii S. V. , Kobets M. I. , Pashchenko V. A.
Published: January 2025

AFMR (antiferromagnetic resonance) measurements of the two-dimensional AFM (antiferromagnet) (C2H5NH3)2MnCl4 have been carried out at low temperatures T < 2.2 K in the 4 mm-waveband. A nonlinear excitation of the AFMR, leading to instabilities characteristic of a two-dimensional AFM, is observed.
Magnetoresistance of cyclically deformed aluminum
Authors: Zavgorodnii A. A. , Kozinets V. V. , Morgun V. N.
Published: January 2025

The transverse magnetoresistance (MR) of high-purity cyclically deformed aluminum is investigated at helium and room temperatures. The dependences of the saturated MR component, the slope of the linear increasing MR component, and the anisotropy parameter η for the electron distribution function on the ratio ρdis1/ρimp are established. It is shown that MR parameters are sensitive to the deformation temperature.
Tunneling spectroscopy of high-T
c superconducting compound YBa2Cu3O7–δ
Authors: Aminov B. A. , Brandt N. B. , Muller R. , Thuy Nguen Min , Ponomarev Ya. G. , Sudakova M. V. , Yatsenko A. S. , Graboi I. E. , Kaul A. R. , Tretyakov Yu. D.
Published: January 2025

Current–voltage characteristics of pressed tunneling point contacts based on YBa2Cu3O7–δ are investigated in the temperature interval between helium and nitrogen temperatures. The observed peculiarities correspond to an energy gap having a width 2Δ (0) = (37 ± 7) meV and 2Δ(0)/kTc = (4.8 ± 0.9). The temperature dependence of the gap is found to agree with that predicted by the BCS theory.
Information merging and reconstruction of single-shot dual-mode wide-field imaging with high spatial resolution
Authors: Zeng Xuanke , Wu Kaipeng , Wang Congying , Cai Yi , Huang Dongmei , Lu Xiaowei , Ning Ran , Zhang Dongping , He Wenzhao , Wang Zhu , Xu Shixiang , Li Jingzhen
Published: January 2025

In many scenarios, it is really desirable but challenging for wide-field imaging to gather both the clear morphologies and fine details of the target. This paper realizes this imaging by a dual-mode imaging on optical parametric amplification (OPA) with a vortex laser pump. This design includes signal imaging and idler imaging, which have complementary point spread functions with each other. The signal acts as bright-field imaging to record morphologic information, whereas the idler does so for spiral phase contrast imaging to capture the featured details with high brightness and contrast, which has been experimentally confirmed with a target of herb tissue. By utilizing the coupling relation among the pump, signal, and idler, the information from the recorded signal and idler images can be merged, which allows us to reconstruct the target picture owning both high-contrast morphologies and high-brightness fine details. Due to high OPA gain, our imaging can work with weak illumination. Its field-of-view covers an area of 0.33 × 0.33 mm2 with a spatial resolution up to 228 lp/mm. This OPA imaging also provides an effective way for the imaging required nonlinear frequency conversion.
Electronic properties of MAPbxSn1−xI3 hybrid perovskite alloys: k.p modeling for tetragonal crystal symmetry with C4v point group
Authors: Saïdi I. , Boujdaria K. , Chamarro M. , Testelin C.
Published: January 2025

MAPb x Sn 1 − x I 3 alloys are highly promising for photovoltaic, optoelectronic, and spintronics applications. Using k.p calculations, we derived the fundamental band parameters of these tetragonal hybrid halide perovskites as a function of Pb content (x). Our study focuses on the experimentally confirmed C4v point group structures: P4mm for Sn-rich alloys and I4cm for Pb-rich alloys. Our theoretical model successfully reproduces the non-monotonic behavior of the bandgap and provides detailed insights into the electron, hole, and reduced exciton masses (me, mh, and μ). We find that hole masses are slightly larger than electron masses, with both increasing linearly as x rises. At the structural transition (x=0.5) between P4mm and I4cm, we observe a discontinuity in hole masses and a steeper linear increase in Pb-rich structures. The calculated exciton masses show excellent agreement with experimental data across a wide range of alloy compositions. Additionally, we predict the Landé g-factors for charge carriers (ge, gh) and excitons (gX). For Pb-rich alloys, ge increases with decreasing bandgap energy, while for Sn-rich alloys, ge decreases. Exciton g-factors gX are predominantly governed by the large positive ge values, as the smaller negative gh values provide minimal compensation. Consequently, gX is not constant but varies with the bandgap, ranging from 2.4 and 4.8 for Pb-rich alloys and from 4.8 and 3.7 for Sn-rich alloys. These results highlight the tunable electronic and spin properties of MAPbxSn1−xI3 alloys, positioning them as versatile candidates for next-generation device applications.
Observation of uncommon elastic wave group velocity in common honeycomb structure and its potential for debonding detection
Authors: Yuan Ye , Liu Bin , Jia Han , Zhang Zhiguo
Published: January 2025

We report wave propagation with an uncommon negative group velocity (NGV) feature in the common honeycomb structure. Theoretical analysis indicates that the NGV feature arises from the repulsion between skin's localized resonance modes in the same family, influenced by the relative parameters between the core and skin, such as skin thickness. Experimental results show that the NGV feature in honeycomb structure is unlike in isotropic plates, and it only appears in the front half of the hexagon hollow unit, which is surrounded by the honeycomb core. More notably, the NGV feature disappears in the skin–core debonding area and reappears in the intact area, suggesting potential applicability for detecting debonding defects.
Synergistic physical and chemical effects of MOF-derived porous Fe3C–NC to boost the performance of Li–S batteries
Authors: Chen Wanyang , Feng Junan , Yin Lu , He Di , Gu Wei , Wang Tianyi , Liu Jingchong , Zhao Xiaoxian , Shi Chuan , Song Jianjun
Published: January 2025

Lithium–sulfur (Li–S) batteries are one of the key objects of next-generation energy storage systems due to their high energy density and low-cost characteristics. However, the slow reaction kinetics and serious shuttle effect of lithium polysulfides (LiPSs) have hindered their practical application. In this work, metal-organic framework-derived Fe3C decorated nitrogen-doped carbon matrix (Fe3C–NC) composites were prepared to modify the separator to promote the reaction kinetics of Li–S batteries. The porous and conductive NC facilitates the trapping of LiPSs, rapid transfer of charge, and alleviated volume expansion, while the Fe3C–NC with optimum Fe3C content can significantly reduce the energy barrier of the electrochemical conversion reaction, accelerate the transport of lithium ions, and enhance the reaction kinetics of LiPSs, which are conducive to inhibit the shuttle effect through synergistic physical and chemical interactions. The Li–S battery with Fe3C–NC separator exhibits excellent cycle stability with an initial discharge specific capacity of 1099.19 mAh g−1 at 1 C and a low-capacity decay of 0.068% per cycle over 500 cycles. Even at a high S loading of 5.93 mg cm−2, it still delivers reliable cyclic stability with an initial discharge specific capacity of 903.65 mAh g−1 at 0.1 C. This work provides a convenient and effective method for the application of metallic materials combined with nitrogen-doped carbon matrix in high-performance Li–S batteries.