bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Integration of GWAS and Co-Expression Network Analysis Identified Main Genes Responsible for Nitrogen Uptake Traits in Seedling Waxy Corn
Authors: Luo Chunmei , Dai Huixue , Liang Shuaiqiang , Zhao Han , Zhou Ling
Published: January 2025

Background/Objectives: Waxy corn has a unique taste and flavor that a majority of consumers love, and the market application prospect is broad. Nitrogen plays an important role in the growth and development of waxy corn. Exploring the key genes that affect nitrogen absorption can lay a foundation for improving the quality of waxy corn. Methods: In this study, a total of 534 local waxy corn inbred lines were used to perform genome-wide association studies (GWAS) to mine the significant Quantitative Trait Nucleotides (QTNs) for nitrogen content of waxy corn at seedling stage in two different environments. The Weighted Gene Co-Expression Network Analysis (WGCNA) nitrogen response co-expression network was also constructed to explore the differences of gene expression patterns and the co-expression relationship between transcription factors and functional genes to find candidate genes significantly associated with nitrogen uptake in waxy corn. Results: A total of 97 significant associations (LOD-value ≥ 3) were detected between SNPs and nitrate content traits under single and multi-environment conditions. Fifty-four candidate genes were identified around the significant SNPs in about a 20 Kb region. Combined with nitrogen response differential co-expression network analysis, 17 out of the 54 candidate genes were identified in the nitrogen response module, among which 4 main genes (Zm00001d029012, Zm00001d034035, Zm00001d007890, and Zm00001d045097) were repeatedly detected in multiple environments. Conclusions: This study jointly identified four stable and heritable candidate genes involved in the nitrogen metabolism process through GWAS and co-expression network analysis. The results of this study provide theoretical guidance for further elucidating the genetic mechanism of nitrogen efficiency in waxy corn and breeding new germplasm of waxy corn.
Differential Effects of Pandemic-Related Stressors on Mental Health by Age and Sex
Authors: Borja Joshua B. , Patten Scott B.
Published: January 2025

Objective: There have been consistent concerns about a greater impact of COVID-19 on the mental health of younger people and females. We aimed to explore the potential synergistic effect of various pandemic-related stressors with age and sex on the mental health of the general Canadian household population during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: Using cross-sectional data from the Statistics Canada 2022 Mental Health and Access to Care Survey (MHACS), frequencies for major depressive episode (MDE), generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), general psychological distress, and various pandemic-related and demographic factors were estimated. Odds ratios were estimated using binary logistic regression models. These estimates used a replicate bootstrapping procedure recommended by Statistics Canada. Finally, Relative Excess Risk due to Interaction (RERI) models were used for each outcome to evaluate the interactions of each pandemic-related stressor with age and sex on an additive scale. Results: Past-12-month MDE and GAD, psychological distress, and the various COVID-19 stressors were more prevalent in young people and females. Overall, the stressors were confirmed to be associated with these outcomes. There were greater-than-additive interactions between age and difficulty accessing healthcare, loneliness, physical health problems, household relationship challenges, and work stress; and between sex and severe illness of a loved one, loneliness, work stress, LGBTQ2+ status, marital status, difficulty accessing healthcare, physical health problems, job/income loss, and financial difficulties. Generally, evidence of synergy was found between age and pandemic-related stressors and sex and pandemic-related stressors. Conclusions: Greater-than-additive interactions of pandemic-related stressors with age and sex may indicate synergistic vulnerabilities within females and young people. Future pandemics, via corresponding stressors, may be associated with increased mental health vulnerability in females, youth, and especially young females.
Self-Reported Post-COVID Symptoms at 18 Months After Infection Among Adults in Southern Brazil: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: de Brito Franciele Aline Machado , Laranjeira Carlos , Moroskoski Marcia , Salci Maria Aparecida , Rossoni Stéfane Lele , Baccon Wanessa Cristina , de Oliveira Rosana Rosseto , Marques Priscila Garcia , de Freitas Góes Herbert Leopoldo , Mello Fernanda Fontes , da Cruz Blaszczak Flávia Renata Baldissera , Vissoci João Ricardo Nickenig , Puente Alcaraz Jesús , Facchini Luiz Augusto , Carreira Lígia
Published: January 2025

Background/Objectives: Currently, there is a limited understanding of the long-term consequences following acute COVID-19, referred to as long COVID. This cross-sectional study aims to analyze the prevalence of persistent signs and symptoms of long COVID, 18 months after primary SARS-CoV-2 infection in adults in southern Brazil. Methods: Using two national databases (the digital registry of SARS-CoV-2 positive cases), 370 individuals living in the state of Paraná (Brazil) were recruited. Data were collected through telephone interviews conducted in 2021 and 2022. Results: The overall prevalence of long COVID was 66.2% among study participants. During the acute phase of infection, the most common symptom clusters included neurological symptoms (87.0%; n = 318), followed by respiratory (82.0%; n = 301), musculoskeletal (66.0%; n = 241), digestive (50.0%; n = 184), psychological (38.0%; n = 138), and endocrine symptoms (28.0%; n = 104). In the 18 month follow-up, the main persistent symptoms were memory loss (42.7%), fatigue (32.2%), anxiety (23.5%), dyspnea (19.7%), and hair loss (19.7%). The proportion of participants with long COVID was statistically higher in females (73.9%), those with a family income below two minimum wages (94.7%), those who do not practice physical activity (83.3%), those who report poor sleep quality (93.3%), those who use long-term medication (85.9%), those who needed health care in the previous six months (87.3%), those who required professional and/or family care (79.3%), those who were in the ICU (79.0%), and those who used ventilatory support (77.5%). Conclusions: Long COVID is a complex condition that requires long-term monitoring and investment in health services due to its high prevalence and the health consequences in the population.
Detection of Tomato Leaf Pesticide Residues Based on Fluorescence Spectrum and Hyper-Spectrum
Authors: Gao Jiayu , Yang Xuhui , Liu Simo , Liu Yufeng , Ning Xiaofeng
Published: January 2025

In order to rapidly and nondestructively detect pesticide residues on tomato leaves, fluorescence spectroscopy and hyperspectral techniques were used to study the nondestructive detection of three different concentrations of benzyl-pyrazolyl esters on the surface of tomato leaves, respectively. In this study, fluorescence spectrum acquisition and hyperspectral imaging processing of tomato leaf samples with and without pesticides were conducted, and spectral data from regions of interest of hyperspectral images were extracted. The data in the spectral raw bands were optimized using convolutional smoothing (S-G), standard normal variable transformation (SNV), multiplicative scatter correction (MSC), and baseline calibration (baseline) algorithms, respectively. In order to improve the operating rate of discrimination, a continuous projection algorithm (SPA) was used to extract the characteristic wavelengths of the fluorescence spectra and hyperspectral data of pesticide residues, and algorithms such as the least-squares support vector machine (LSSVM) algorithm and least partial squares regression (PLSR) were used to build a quantitative model, while algorithms such as the convolutional neural network (BPNN) algorithm and decision tree algorithm (CART) were used to build a qualitative model. According to the results, R2 of the model of hyperspectral data after SG-SNV preprocessing and PLSR modeling reached 0.9974, RMSEC reached 0.0221, and RMSEP reached 0.0565. R2 of the model of fluorescence spectral data after SG-MSC preprocessing and SVM modeling reached 0.9986, RMSEC reached 0.2496, and RMSEP reached 0.4193. Qualitative analysis was established based on the characteristic wavelengths of hyper-spectrum and fluorescence spectrum extracted by the SPA algorithm, and the accuracy of the training sets of the optimal qualitative model reached 94.9% and 95.7%, respectively, and the accuracy of the test sets both reached 100%. After comparison, the quantitative model of data based on fluorescence spectrum for pesticide residue detection in tomato leaves proved to have a better effect, and the qualitative model showed higher accuracy in discrimination. Therefore, the fluorescence spectral and hyperspectral imaging techniques applied to tomato leaf pesticide detection enjoy a promising application prospect.
Effects of Zinc, Manganese, and Molybdenum Fertilizers on Growth and Main Medicinal Metabolites of Stauntonia leucantha Leaves
Authors: Zhou Yang , Zhou Junxin , Chen Jianyong , Chang Yunni , Lin Xiaoqing , Zhong Ziqing , Li Baoyin
Published: January 2025

Zinc, manganese, and molybdenum have a significant impact on plant growth and the accumulation of metabolites. However, the impact of zinc, manganese, and molybdenum on the growth and metabolic substances of Stauntonia leucantha leaves is still unclear. To explore the effects of zinc, manganese, and molybdenum on growth and main medicinal metabolites of Stauntonia leucantha leaves, to provide a reference for the fertilizer application method of Stauntonia leucantha, a three-factor, three-level orthogonal design with five-year-old field Stauntonia leucantha as the test material. The results showed that fertilization with zinc and molybdenum significantly enhanced the medicinal value of Stauntonia leucantha leaves. The leaf growth of Stauntonia leucantha mainly concentrated in 0–120 days after fertilizer application and gradually slowed down in 120–180 days after fertilizer application, significantly affected by zinc and manganese. Zinc significantly increased the content of chlorophyll, oleanolic acid, rutin, and calceolarioside B. Manganese significantly increased the content of chlorophyll and rutin while inhibiting the accumulation of oleanolic acid and calceolarioside B. Molybdenum significantly increased the content of oleanolic acid and rutin but did not affect chlorophyll b content. Based on a comprehensive analysis, the optimum fertilizer combination for leaf quality of Stauntonia leucantha leaves was identified as Zn3Mn1Mo3 (T7), 6 g/plant of zinc sulfate, 3 g/plant of ammonium molybdate, but no manganese sulfate.
Optimized Aluminum Hydroxide Adsorption–Precipitation for Improved Viral Detection in Wastewater
Authors: Farmer-Diaz Karla , Matthew-Bernard Makeda , Cheetham Sonia , Mitchell Kerry , Macpherson Calum N. L. , Ramos-Nino Maria E.
Published: January 2025

Wastewater-based epidemiology (WBE) is a valuable tool for monitoring pathogen spread in communities; however, current protocols mainly target non-enveloped viruses. This study addresses the need for standardized methods to detect both enveloped and non-enveloped viruses by testing four aluminum hydroxide adsorption–precipitation techniques. Wastewater samples were spiked with an enveloped virus surrogate (Φ6 bacteriophage) and a non-enveloped virus surrogate (MS2 coliphage), and viral recovery was assessed using reverse-transcription quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR). The highest recovery for the enveloped virus was achieved with AlCl3 at pH 3.5, a 15 min flocculation time, and a 3% elution solution concentration. For the non-enveloped virus, optimal recovery was found with AlCl3 at pH 6.0, no flocculation time, and a 10% elution solution. The best method for recovering both virus types used AlCl3 at pH 6.0, 15 min flocculation, and a 3% elution solution concentration. This study shows that while optimal conditions vary between virus types, a standardized AlCl3 flocculation protocol can efficiently recover both, providing a cost-effective approach for outbreak monitoring in Grenada.
Associations Between Traumatic Brain Injury Characteristics and Memory Outcomes: Insights from the Health and Retirement Study
Authors: Cerino Eric S. , Lininger Monica R. , Seaton Thomasina J. , Porter Gillian , Baldwin Julie A.
Published: January 2025

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is an established risk factor for accelerated cognitive decline and increased dementia risk. The specific characteristics of TBI (e.g., type of head trauma, presence of a gap in memory, age of onset) that confer the greatest risk to cognitive health remain comparatively less clear. Using data from the 2014 Health and Retirement Study (HRS) experimental module, we examined associations between TBI characteristics and memory outcomes in a national adult lifespan sample. We tested whether the age of onset and presence of a memory gap in TBI resulting from a vehicle accident, from a fall or being hit, or from playing sports or playing on a playground were associated with self-rated memory and recall memory performance in a subsample of HRS respondents across the adult lifespan (N = 414, mean age = 66.28, SD = 9.70, 52% female). In cases where participants reported TBI from three different types of injury (vehicle accident, fall, and playing sports or playing on a playground), they shared whether they experienced a gap in their memory and their age when the head trauma occurred. Participants also reported on self-rated memory and performed a recall memory task. Hierarchical linear regression models were adjusted for age, sex, race, ethnicity, education, and self-rated health. Older age of onset for TBI from a fall was associated with worse self-rated memory (Est. = −0.11, SE = 0.04, p = 0.01) and recall performance (Est. = −0.33, SE = 0.15, p = 0.03). Encountering a memory gap from the TBI that resulted from a vehicle accident (Est. = −0.22, SE = 0.10, p = 0.03), a fall (Est. = −0.23, SE = 0.09, p = 0.01), and from playing sports or playing on a playground (Est. = −0.40, SE = −0.13, p < 0.01) were all significantly associated with worse self-rated memory. Links between encountering a memory gap and recall performance were comparatively scant. Results indicate the impact of TBI on memory varies as a function of type of trauma, age of onset, and presence of memory gap from the head trauma. Our study takes a preclinical, preventative approach to inform public health efforts that target the mitigation of specific types of head trauma at different developmental phases of the lifespan.
Assessment of Methylation in Selected ADAMTS Family Genes in Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Szmajda-Krygier Dagmara , Nocoń Zuzanna , Pietrzak Jacek , Krygier Adrian , Balcerczak Ewa
Published: January 2025

Alterations in the methylation of genetic material can influence carcinogenesis by the downregulation or overexpression of ADAMTS (a disintegrin-like and metalloprotease with thrombospondin motifs) protease genes. Through their proteolytic activity, these enzymes are also capable of promoting angiogenesis. Consequently, ADAMTS proteases can either facilitate or inhibit cancer progression. This study aimed to evaluate the methylation levels of the ADAMTS6, ADAMTS9, and ADAMTS12 genes in non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) using data from bioinformatics databases. The focus was on differences between lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) and lung squamous-cell carcinoma (LUSC) subtypes and their impact on patient overall survival (OS). ADAMTS6 gene expression is significantly reduced in LUSC, and analysis of ADAMTS9 gene expression showed a significantly reduced gene transcript level in LUAD and LUSC, while both NSCLC subtypes demonstrated ADAMTS12 upregulation. In LUSC, significantly elevated promoter methylation was found in all of the aforementioned genes, while in LUAD, higher promoter methylation was observed only for ADAMTS9 and ADAMTS12. The differential methylation region (DMR) pattern demonstrated by ADAMTS6, ADAMTS9, and ADAMTS12 is a useful tool for distinguishing normal from cancer cells. The areas under the curve (AUCs) ranged from 0.86 to 0.99 for both LUAD and LUSC subtypes. The methylation level of different CpG sites among selected ADAMTS members is related to patient survival, suggesting it may have value as a prognostic marker. The methylation degree of promoter regions in genes encoding ADAMTS family proteins could significantly influence LUSC and LUAD. Increased promoter methylation could also reduce certain gene expression, contributing to cancer progression. The expression levels and specific DMRs of ADAMTS genes may serve as prognostic markers correlating with patient OS. Assessing ADAMTS gene methylation could become a diagnostic tool for differentiating NSCLC subtypes and potentially guide therapeutic strategies. Further research is needed to fully understand the activity and mechanisms of ADAMTS family proteins.
Utility of Magnetic Bead-Based Automated DNA Extraction to Improve Chagas Disease Molecular Diagnosis
Authors: Farani Priscila S. G. , Lopez Jacqueline , Faier-Pereira Amanda , Hasslocher-Moreno Alejandro Marcel , Almeida Igor C. , Moreira Otacilio C.
Published: January 2025

Chagas disease, caused by Trypanosoma cruzi, remains a significant global health challenge, particularly in the molecular diagnostics of low parasitemia during the chronic phase. This highlights the critical need for enhanced diagnostic methodologies. In response, this study evaluates the effectiveness of an automated magnetic beads-based DNA extraction method in improving the molecular diagnosis of Chagas disease compared to the traditional silica column-based extraction. Accordingly, this research seeks to enhance the DNA yield, purity, and sensitivity of real-time PCR (qPCR) assays for detecting T. cruzi satDNA. Blood samples spiked with guanidine–EDTA solution and varying concentrations of T. cruzi were used to compare the two extraction methods. The results indicated that the magnetic bead-based method outperformed the silica column in terms of DNA concentration, purity, and earlier detection of T. cruzi satDNA. Although both methods had similar limits of detection at a 95% confidence interval, the magnetic bead-based approach demonstrated higher sensitivity and reproducibility, particularly in low-parasitemia samples. The findings suggest that the magnetic beads-based DNA extraction method offers a more reliable, faster, and more sensitive alternative for diagnosing chronic Chagas disease, potentially improving clinical outcomes by enabling more accurate and earlier parasite detection.
A Modifiable Blockchain Based on the RE-TNG Node Selection Method
Authors: Chen Rongtao , Li Chao , Dai Bingrong , Zhang Shaohua
Published: January 2025

Blockchain technology, characterized by its immutability and decentralization, enables the creation of permanent and tamper-resistant records once data are uploaded, making it widely applicable in scenarios requiring data authenticity and reliability. However, the immutability of on-chain data poses significant security risks, as erroneous or illegal data become difficult to correct or remove once recorded. Editable blockchain technology offers a potential solution for on-chain data modification. Nevertheless, existing approaches face several challenges, including the impact of malicious nodes on the security and efficiency of data modification, excessive centralization in the management of modification rights and trapdoor keys, and cumulative issues in reputation-based traditional node grouping methods. To address these challenges, this study proposes an RE-TNG (Reputation Evaluation-Twice Node Grouping) node selection method and an editable blockchain scheme based on it. The RE-TNG method employs a two-stage grouping process following reputation-based node ranking. The first grouping stage uses a Fibonacci sequence-based rule to mitigate the issue of cumulative reputation values over time. The second grouping stage selects high-reputation nodes within groups to ensure the trustworthiness of selected nodes. Trapdoor keys are collaboratively generated by the high-reputation node group, achieving decentralized trapdoor management. Modification nodes are randomly chosen from the high-reputation group, ensuring both integrity and decentralization in modification authority. Comparative analyses and experimental evaluations against traditional random node selection and grouping methods demonstrate the feasibility of the proposed scheme, showcasing a superior performance in terms of security and modification efficiency.
Magnetic and Thermoelectric Properties of Fe2CoGa Heusler Compounds
Authors: Saito Tetsuji , Watanabe Hayai
Published: January 2025

The investigation of the properties of Heusler compounds is an important task that will pave the way for new applications in various fields related to magnetics and thermoelectrics. This study examines the magnetic and thermoelectric properties of Fe2CoGa Heusler compounds prepared by casting and subsequent annealing. The Fe2CoGa Heusler compound was found to be ferromagnetic, with a large saturation magnetization of 110 emu/g and a high Curie temperature of 1011 K. The Fe2CoGa Heusler compound was a good thermoelectric material, with a negative Seebeck coefficient of −44 μV/K, a low electrical resistivity of 0.60 μΩm, and a high-power factor of 3000 μW/mK2 at room temperature. The maximum power factor of 3230 μW/mK2 for the Fe2CoGa Heusler compound was obtained at 400 K. In order to improve the magnetic and thermoelectric properties of the Fe2CoGa Heusler compound, Fe2-xCo1+xGa (x = 0–1) Heusler compounds were also prepared by casting and subsequent annealing. In the Fe2-xCo1+xGa (x = 0–1) Heusler compounds, the saturation magnetization slightly decreased, but the Curie temperature increased with increasing Co content (x). As regards the thermoelectric properties, the electrical resistivity of the Fe2-xCo1+xGa (x = 0.25–1) Heusler compounds was smaller than that of the Fe2CoGa Heusler compound. The Seebeck coefficient and power factor of the Fe1.75Co1.25Ga Heusler compound were more significant than those of the Fe2CoGa Heusler compound. An increase in the Co content of the Fe2CoGa Heusler compound did not improve the saturation magnetization but improved the Curie temperature and thermoelectric properties of the Fe2CoGa Heusler compound. The Fe1.75Co1.25Ga Heusler compound exhibited a high-power factor value of over 4000 μW/mK2, which was comparable to that of the Bi2Te3 compound.
A Comprehensive Review: Biology of Anopheles squamosus, an Understudied Malaria Vector in Africa
Authors: Nguyen Valerie T. , Dryden Dalia S. , Broder Brooke A. , Tadimari Ayaan , Tanachaiwiwat Primrose , Mathias Derrick K. , Thongsripong Panpim , Reeves Lawrence E. , Ali Renee L. M. N. , Gebhardt Mary E. , Saili Kochelani , Simubali Limonty , Simulundu Edgar , Norris Douglas E. , Lee Yoosook
Published: January 2025

With ongoing global efforts to eliminate malaria, several countries have entered a pre-elimination stage, in which populations of the primary mosquito vector are reduced and the rates of malaria transmission are low. Efforts to eliminate malaria have changed the dynamics of disease transmission, causing a shift in anopheline community composition in some regions. One of the most abundant species of Anopheles found in pre-elimination areas, such as southern Africa, is Anopheles squamosus (Theobald, 1901; Diptera: Culicidae). Although An. squamosus has been documented across the African continent, limited information is available about its biology. Knowing what, when, and where the malaria vector bites humans can help develop effective malaria control strategies. The aim of this review is to compile the information available on An. squamosus’s biology, ecology, distribution, behavior, and potential role in disease transmission. The review of current literature suggested that An. squamosus is abundant throughout the African continent. Studies indicate that this species occupies the same range and exhibits similar behaviors to primary malaria vectors in southern and eastern African countries, like Zambia. In conclusion, An. squamosus continues to be an understudied species that has circumvented disease control measures and further studies are needed to develop effective control strategies.
Hormonal Status and Quality of Life of Women Treated for Infertility Before and During COVID-19 Pandemic in Poland
Authors: Wójtowicz Kamila , Kot Justyna , Makara-Studzińska Marta , Wdowiak Natalia , Filip Michał , Wróbel Andrzej , Wróbel Jan , Matuszyk Dorota , Bojar Melania , Bartosińska Joanna , Wdowiak Artur
Published: January 2025

Background/Objectives: Infertile people experience a lot of psychological stress due to the inability to conceive and achieve pregnancy. Studies on the quality of life (QoL) of people undergoing infertility treatment typically show a lower QoL for couples struggling with reproductive problems. In recent years, a new factor that may have had a stressful impact on people treated for infertility is the COVID-19 pandemic. The aim of this study is to assess the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the QoL of Polish women treated for infertility and on the secretion of selected sex hormones. Methods: The study sample consisted of 600 women undergoing treatment due to infertility and 100 healthy women in a control group. The World Health Organization Quality of Life-BREF (WHOQOL-BREF) and the Polish version of the questionnaire Fertility Quality of Life (FertiQoL) were used for data collection. The levels of selected hormones were measured from blood samples. Results: The effects of the pandemic were visible primarily in the reduced QoL of patients. The QoL in terms of physical health, psychological health, social relationships, and environmental sphere was drastically reduced by COVID-19, especially among women treated with IVF (in vitro fertilization) and IUI (intrauterine insemination). The hormonal status of women treated for infertility during the pandemic significantly changed due to a decrease in FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone) and LH (luteinizing hormone) secretion and an increase in PRL (prolactin). Conclusions: The pandemic resulted in a decline in the QoL of women with reproductive problems. The quality of life was influenced by the type of therapy used during infertility treatment. The study also suggests a relationship between a decrease in the quality of life of persons treated for infertility during the pandemic and their hormonal status.
A Review of Ocular and Systemic Side Effects in Glaucoma Pharmacotherapy
Authors: Li Xiaole , Balas Michael , Mathew David J.
Published: January 2025

Glaucoma, the second leading cause of irreversible blindness globally, encompasses a heterogeneous group of ocular disorders characterized by the progressive degeneration of retinal ganglion cells. Pharmacotherapy remains the cornerstone of treatment, primarily aimed at reducing intraocular pressure (IOP) by decreasing aqueous humor production or enhancing its outflow. The therapeutic classes employed include carbonic anhydrase inhibitors, β-blockers, α-adrenergic agonists, prostaglandin analogs, parasympathomimetics, Rho kinase inhibitors, and hyperosmotic agents. Despite their efficacy, these medications are associated with a range of ocular and systemic side effects, influenced by their mechanisms of action, formulation, and dosage. Ocular adverse effects, such as irritation, dry eye, allergic reactions, and infections, are common, while systemic absorption may lead to more severe outcomes, including organ dysfunction, exacerbation of comorbid conditions, or life-threatening cardiovascular events. Given these potential risks, it is critical for clinicians to understand and monitor these adverse effects as they significantly affect patient adherence, quality of life, and treatment outcomes. Ongoing research is essential to develop novel therapeutic regimens, agents, or delivery methods that minimize side effects and improve compliance. Incorporating patient-reported outcomes in clinical practice may further enhance the assessment of treatment impact, facilitating more tailored and effective management of glaucoma.
A Large-Scale Focused Fluid Flow Zone Between Atolls in the Xisha Islands (South China Sea): Types, Characteristics, and Evolution
Authors: Zhao Jixiang , Ma Benjun , Qin Zhiliang , Lan Wenjian , Zhu Benyu , Pang Shuyi , Li Mingzhe , Wang Ruining
Published: January 2025

A large number of seabed depressions, covering an area of 2500 km2 in the Xisha Massif of the South China Sea, are investigated using newly collected high-resolution acoustic data. By analyzing the morphological features and seismic attributes of the focused fluid flow system, five geological structures are recognized and described in detail, including pockmarks, volcanic mounds, pipes, faults, and forced folds. Pockmarks and volcanic mounds occur as clustered groups and their distributions are related to two large-scale volcanic zones with chaotic seismic reflections. Pipes, characterized by disordered seismic reflections, mainly occur within the focused fluid flow zone (FFFZ) and directly link with the large-scale deep volcano and its surrounding areas. Faults and fractures mainly occur along pipes and extend to the seafloor, commonly presenting lateral walls of mega-pockmarks. Forced folds are primarily clustered above volcanic zones and commonly restricted between faults or pipes, characterized by sediment deformations as indicated in seismic profiles. By comprehensive analysis of the above observations and a simplified simulation model, the volcanism-induced hydrothermal fluid activities are argued herein to contribute to these focused fluid flow structures. In addition, traces of suspected submarine instability disasters such as landslides have been found in this sea area, and more observational data will be needed to determine whether seafloor fluid flow zones can be used as a predictor of seafloor instability in the future.
The Use of the Great Toe Pulp Free Flap in Dystrophic Fingertips
Authors: Crosio Alessandro , Magnani Mauro , Odella Simona , Cacianti Matilde , Locatelli Francesco Maria , Tos Pierluigi
Published: January 2025

Background: Lesions of the digital apices are common, and several treatment strategies can be considered for them. Among these, the free great toe pulp flap can be used. Methods: This is a retrospective report in which five patients undergoing hallux free flap surgery for loss of pulpal substance at the level of the hand were evaluated. They were re-evaluated by using both clinical testing to assess sensitivity and the use of questionnaires to estimate function. Results: None of the performed flaps failed. The mean follow-up was 36 months (range 16–66 months). With SW-MF, the mean value was 3.734 compared to 2.986 for the same contralateral finger. The S2-PD test attested a mean value of 6.8 mm (range 6–8 mm) in contrast to the contralateral finger, which showed a mean result of 3.2 mm (range 3–5 mm), while the D-2PD indicated lower values for both the operated finger, with a mean value of 6.4 mm (range 4–8 mm), and the healthy finger. Conclusions: When a dystrophic fingertip results from an inappropriate acute management, the GTP flap appears to be an excellent strategy to restore the specialized tissue of finger pulp and to bring supple tissue to the correct PIP flexion contracture or the small first web space contracture. It is mostly required for thumb and radial fingers’ reconstruction, especially in young patients or those who need high functional demands and/or present an extensive loss of substance that cannot be resolved with local flaps.
Street Tree Redevelopment in Rome’s Historical Landscapes: From Strategic Vision to Streetscape Design
Authors: Clemente Matteo
Published: January 2025

Street trees play a fundamental role in shaping pedestrian sidewalks, squares, and small rest areas, enriching the public space, together with paving, street furniture, and lighting. However, the project of street tree lines along urban sidewalks remains an underestimated issue in urban design and strategic planning, even if it could be a pivotal opportunity for a widespread redevelopment of living streets and public spaces. The present study focuses on landscape aspects of the ‘street tree project’ intrinsically linked with the identity, perception, and morphological issues of urban spaces, from a strategic vision of the city to the human scale of the urban landscape. In this perspective, we discussed the case of Rome, Italy, where the historical heritage has had an extraordinary value, and where street trees are considered a notable contribution to the landscape identity of the whole city. The administrative council of the Municipality of Rome has initiated a comprehensive census of street trees and is currently developing a Street Tree Masterplan. This plan will serve as a guiding framework, outlining strategies for the conservation of arboreal heritage and the revitalization of the urban tree population along city streets. Based on the empirical evidence stemming from this case study, the discussion highlights the relevance of poorly debated issues, in both the academic and practitioner’s literature, mainly concerning the choice of urban trees’ species. Choosing the ‘right tree species in the right place’ has implications that are not only ecological and environmental, but also perceptive and architectural, being intimately associated with the urban scene and the identity of places.
The Impact of Geomorphological Settings and Environmental Influences on Crop Utilization in the Mid-to-Late Neolithic Period in Shaanxi Province, Northwest China
Authors: Ma Zhikun , Zhou Mile , Hu Zhongya , Monteith Francesca , Shao Bingxin , Xiang Jinhui
Published: January 2025

During the Middle-to-Late Neolithic period (7000–3800 BP), Shaanxi Province served as a critical juncture in the transmission of crops. Foxtail millet (Setaria italica), broomcorn millet (Panicum miliaceum), and rice (Oryza sativa) spread westwards into the Gansu–Qinghai region and southwards into the Sichuan basin, whilst wheat (Triticum aestivum) and barley (Hordeum vulgare) were transmitted through the Shaanxi region to the middle and lower Yellow River regions. Neolithic settlements are found in all three of the main geomorphic settings in Shaanxi: the Loess Plateau, plains, and mountainous areas. While the extent to which crop diffusion and distribution were influenced by environmental changes has previously been highlighted, the strategies of crop utilization in different geomorphic contexts have not been specified. Based on crop-remains data from 33 archaeological sites in Shaanxi, this study uses statistical modeling and ArcGIS-based spatial analysis to investigate prehistoric crop utilization in Shaanxi during the Neolithic period and its environmental determinants. Our results indicate the following: (1) The dominant crops in the Neolithic Shaanxi were foxtail millet and broomcorn millet, with the proportion of foxtail millet increasing over time. (2) The Guanzhong Plain was the earliest region in Shaanxi to adopt millet and rice (~7000–3800 BP). Subsequently, millet and rice had influenced the Qinba Mountains by ~5000 BP at the latest. By ~3800 BP, millet had affected the entire northern Shaanxi Plateau, with rice only found at the Shimao site around 4000 BP. Finally, wheat and barley influenced the Guanzhong region and the Qinba region in Shaanxi around 4000 BP. In addition, rice, wheat, and barley mainly enhanced agricultural diversity in the Guanzhong Plain and Qinba Mountains but had limited impact in the Northern Plateau, where cattle and sheep have enriched subsistence strategies since about 4500 BP. (3) Environmental factors affected the distribution of crops to different extents—elevation and river proximity had minimal effects on foxtail millet and broomcorn millet but significantly influenced the presence of rice, wheat, and barley. These factors led to a spatial pattern where millet dominated in the Northern Plateau, while the Guanzhong Plain and Qinba Mountains developed mixed farming systems incorporating all four seed types. This study provides new insights into the environmental mechanisms influencing crop diffusion and prehistoric human adaptation during the Neolithic period in Shaanxi.
Urban Street Greening in a Developed City: The Influence of COVID-19 and Socio-Economic Dynamics in Beijing
Authors: Cui Liu , Yang Hanwen , Heng Xiaoxu , Song Ruiqi , Wu Lunsai , Hu Yike
Published: January 2025

This study aims to investigate the spatial distribution and structural characteristics of urban greening in Beijing, focusing on three typologies: Single Tree (S-T), Tree–ush (T-B), and Tree–Bush–Grass (T-B-G). The analysis examines how socio-economic factors and the COVID-19 pandemic have influenced these structures across three time periods: pre-pandemic, during the pandemic, and post-pandemic recovery. To achieve this, a deep learning-based approach utilizing the DeepLabV3+ neural network was applied to analyze the features extracted from Baidu Street View (BSV) images. This method enabled the precise quantification of the structural characteristics of urban greening. The findings indicate that greening structures are significantly influenced by commercial activity, population mobility, and economic conditions. During the pandemic, simpler forms like S-T proved more resilient due to their lower maintenance requirements, while complex systems such as T-B-G experienced reduced support. These results underscore the vulnerability of green infrastructure during economic strain and highlight the need for urban greening strategies that incorporate flexibility and resilience to adapt to changing socio-economic contexts while maintaining ecological and social benefits.
Dialect Classification and Everyday Culture: A Case Study from Austria
Authors: Vergeiner Philip C.
Published: January 2025

Considering dialect areas as cultural areas has a long tradition in dialectology. Especially in the first half of the 20th century, researchers explored correspondences between dialect variation and other elements of everyday culture such as traditional clothing and customs. Since then, however, few studies have compared dialect variation with everyday culture, and virtually none have used quantitative methods. This study addresses this issue by employing a multivariate, dialectometric approach. It examines dialect variation in phonology and its relationship to non-linguistic aspects of everyday culture in Austria using two types of data: (a) dialect data from a recent dialect survey, and (b) ethnographic data published in the ‘Austrian Ethnographic Atlas’. Analyzing 90 phonetic-phonological and 36 ethnographic variables, statistical methods such as multidimensional scaling (MDS) and cluster analysis (CA) are employed. The results show only limited overlap between the linguistic and ethnographic data, with cultural patterns appearing more fragmented and small-scale. Geographical proximity is more indicative of cultural than linguistic similarity. MDS and CA reveal clear geographical patterns for the linguistic data that align with traditional dialect classifications. In contrast, the cultural data show less distinct clustering and only small-scale regions that do not coincide with the linguistic ones. This article discusses potential reasons for these differences.
Translanguaging as a Dynamic Strategy for Heritage Language Transmission
Authors: Karpava Sviatlana , Ringblom Natalia , Zabrodskaja Anastassia
Published: January 2025

This study explores translanguaging as a flexible and adaptive strategy for heritage language transmission within multilingual families residing in Cyprus, Estonia, and Sweden. Using a qualitative approach, the research examines family language policies, parental beliefs, and the linguistic practices of bilingual and multilingual families, where one parent speaks Russian. The findings reveal how translanguaging supports bilingual development by fostering linguistic adaptability, bridging heritage and societal languages, and accommodating diverse sociolinguistic contexts. Parents in each country implement unique strategies, influenced by local linguistic landscapes, educational systems, and resource availability. In Cyprus, some families strictly adhered to structured methods like the One Parent–One Language strategy, while others adopted a more integrative multilingual approach, seamlessly translanguaging between Russian, Greek, and English in their daily interactions. Estonian and Swedish families display pragmatic adaptations, emphasizing translanguaging’s role in promoting the emotional well-being and linguistic identity of family members. However, certain challenges persist, including societal language dominance, literacy and educational resource scarcity, and the potential overuse of translanguaging in formal communication. By comparing these contexts, the study underscores the need for flexible yet deliberate family language policies, institutional support, and community resources to sustain bilingualism in bilingual and multilingual families. This research contributes to understanding translanguaging’s implications for intergenerational language transmission in minority and immigrant settings, offering insights for educators, linguists, and policymakers on fostering linguistic diversity and equity in globalized societies.
Factors Influencing the Screw Stability of Implant-Supported Single Crowns: An In Vitro Study
Authors: Bishti Shaza , Alsagher Mohamad Shams Eddin , Homa Martin , Wolfart Stefan , Tuna Taşkın
Published: January 2025

The aim is to investigate the impact of retention type, implant/abutment angulation, and the presence of sealant/antimicrobial agents on screw loosening of implant-supported restorations. Fifty dental implants along with their respective abutments and screws were allocated to five groups (n = 10). The groups were categorized based on type of crown retention (screw-/cement-retained), implant/abutment angulation (0°/20°), and type of disinfectant/sealant as follows: Cem_control (cemented/0°/none), Cem_GP (cemented/0°/gutta-percha), Cem_CHX (cemented/0°/chlorhexidine), Cem_Ang (cemented/20°/none), and Screw (screwed/0°/ none). Abutment screws were tightened (20 Ncm), and CAD/CAM zirconia crowns were fabricated. Glass ionomer cement was used for crown cementation in the cemented groups. Samples were subjected to dynamic loading in a chewing simulator (1,200,000 cycles/98 N). After loading, the reverse torque values (RTVs) of the abutment screws were determined (Ncm) using an electronic screwdriver, and the reverse torque difference (RTD) was subsequently calculated. The lowest RTD was reported in group Cem_GP (−2.22 ± 1.03), whereas the highest RTD was seen in group Screw (−4.65 ± 1.79). Group Screw showed a statistically significant difference from all other groups (p < 0.05). No statistically significant difference between the cemented test groups Cem_GP, Cem_CHX, and Cem_Ang and the control group was found. Screw-retained restorations exhibited significantly greater RTD values compared to cement-retained ones. Implant/abutment angulation and the sealant/disinfectant appeared to have no notable effect on the screw stability of single-implant restorations.
Multi-Responsive Amphiphilic Hyperbranched Poly[(2-dimethyl aminoethyl methacrylate)-co-(benzyl methacrylate)]copolymers: Self-Assembly and Curcumin Encapsulation in Aqueous Media
Authors: Ginosati Foteini , Vagenas Dimitrios , Gerardos Angelica Maria , Pispas Stergios
Published: January 2025

In this study, we report the synthesis of amphiphilic hyperbranched poly[(2-dimethylaminoethyl methacrylate)-co-(benzyl methacrylate)] statistical copolymers with two different stoichiometric compositions using the reversible addition–fragmentation chain transfer polymerization (RAFT) technique. The selection of monomers was made to incorporate a pH and thermoresponsive polyelectrolyte (DMAEMA) component and a hydrophobic component (BzMA) to achieve amphiphilicity and study the effects of architecture and environmental factors on the behavior of the novel branched copolymers. Molecular characterization was performed through size exclusion chromatography (SEC) and spectroscopic characterization techniques (1H-NMR and FT-IR). The self-assembly behavior of the hyperbranched copolymers in aqueous media, in response to variations in pH, temperature, and ionic strength, was studied using dynamic light scattering (DLS), electrophoretic light scattering (ELS), and fluorescence spectroscopy (FS). Finally, the efficacy of the two novel copolymers to encapsulate curcumin (CUR), a hydrophobic, polyphenolic drug with proven anti-inflammatory and fluorescence properties, was established. Its encapsulation was evaluated through DLS, UV–Vis, and fluorescence measurements, investigating the change of hydrodynamic radius of the produced mixed copolymer–CUR nanoparticles in each case and their fluorescence emission properties.
The Effect of Low-Temperature Short-Term Annealing on the Microstructure and Properties of Ultrafine-Grained Pure Titanium
Authors: Gu Yanxia , Jiang Jinghua , Ma Aibin , Gu Yaxiao , Yang Zhenquan , Wu Haoran , Song Chenlong , Yang Qingping , Ni Chaobing
Published: January 2025

Industrial pure titanium was processed through 1–4 passes by equal-channel angular pressing (ECAP), and the processed samples were subsequently short-term annealed for 15 min at 300 °C, to achieve better mechanical properties for industrial applications. The microstructure was analyzed using TEM, EBSD, and XRD observations. The mechanical properties were studied through tensile testing. The TEM and EBSD results showed that the grain size of industrial pure titanium was refined to approximately 420 nm after four passes of ECAP processing, with very little grain growth after annealing. The XRD analysis proved the enhanced basal texture in the subsequent annealed samples. Tensile tests indicated that the strength of the processed sample increased with more ECAP passes and was improved by 39% after four passes compared with the as-received state; in addition, the low-temperature short-term annealing resulted in a further strengthening phenomenon. It was concluded that the strengthening after annealing in industrial pure titanium was likely due to the improved basal texture, resulting in texture strengthening.
A Short Review: Tribology in Machining to Understand Conventional and Latest Modeling Methods with Machine Learning
Authors: Kano Seisuke
Published: January 2025

Tribology plays a critical role in machining technologies. Friction is an essential factor in processes such as composite material machining and bonding. This short review highlights the recent advancements in controlling and leveraging tribological phenomena in machining. For instance, high-precision machining is increasingly relying on the in situ observation and real-time measurement of tools, test specimens, and machining equipment for effective process control. Modern engineering materials often incorporate functional materials in metastable states, such as composites of dissimilar materials, rather than conventional stable-phase materials. In these cases, tribological effects during machining can impede precision. On the other hand, the friction in additive manufacturing demonstrates a constructive application of tribology. Traditionally, understanding and mitigating these tribological phenomena have involved developing physical and chemical models for individual factors and using simulations to inform decisions. However, accurately predicting system behavior has remained challenging due to the complex interactions between machine components and the variations between initial and operational (or deteriorated) states. Recent innovations have introduced data-driven approaches that predict system behavior without the need for detailed models. By integrating advanced monitoring technologies and machine learning, these methods enable real-time predictions within controllable parameters using live data. This shift opens new possibilities for achieving more precise and adaptive machining control.