bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Moral Significance of the Music of the Black Atlantic
Authors: Mosley Albert G
Published: July 2007

It is argued here that part of the attraction of African music in the Atlantic Diaspora is its roots in an oral tradition in which agency is often more important than words. This makes it possible for the music to have a moral significance, not merely with respect to the verbal content of the words of songs but also with respect to the manner in which it is composed and performed. As such, a performance may be liberating, even when the words used in the performance are not. By reinforcing elements of the oral tradition in a culture based on notational literacy, the music of the Black Atlantic exemplifies an alternative to ideals embodied in a technological culture.
In vitro effects of chorionic gonadotropin hormone on human adipose development
Authors: Dos Santos Esther , Dieudonné Marie-Noëlle , Leneveu Marie-Christine , Pecquery René , Serazin Valérie , Giudicelli Yves
Published: July 2007

It is well known that pregnancy is associated with fat weight gain. However, the mechanisms whereby fat mass accumulation is controlled during this period are poorly understood. Therefore, we attempted to determine whether human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG), in vitro, influences human adipose tissue development and/or metabolism. For the first time, HCG/LH receptor was characterized in human adipose cells. We also demonstrated that physiological concentrations of HCG, while unaltering both lipolysis and expression of two markers of lipogenesis (FAS and ADD1) in human mature adipocytes, stimulate human preadipocyte growth via the activation of a protein kinase A-independent mitogen-activated protein kinase/c-fos signaling pathway. HCG also moderately increases the preadipocyte differentiation capacityas reflected by enhanced glycerophosphate dehydrogenase activity and expression of key adipogenic transcriptional factors (C/enhancer-binding protein α and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ 2). Finally, HCG significantly stimulates the secretion of the proadipogenic factor, leptin, from human adipose tissue. Taken altogether, these data suggest that the proadipogenic effect of HCG in human preadipocytes contributes to explain why increased fat storage occurs during the first trimester of pregnancy.
Obesity increases free thyroxine proportionally to nonesterified fatty acid concentrations in adult neutered female cats
Authors: Ferguson D C , Caffall Z , Hoenig M
Published: July 2007

The obese cat is a model for the study of the progression toward type 2 diabetes. In this study, the impact of obesity on the hypothalamic–pituitary–thyroid axis was examined in 21 domestic shorthair cats before and after the development of obesity, which significantly increased body mass index (BMI), % body fat (BF), and girth (P<0.0001 for all). Serum total thyroxine (TT4), tri-iodothyronine, free T4 (FT4) by direct dialysis, nonesterified fatty acids (NEFA), and leptin were measured, and FT4 fraction (FFT4) was calculated. Serum thyrotropin (TSH) concentrations were measured in nine animals by validating a heterologous canine TSH assay with recombinant feline TSH as a standard. FT4, FFT4, NEFAs, and leptin were significantly higher in obese cats. FT4 had the strongest positive correlation with obesity indices BF, BMI, girth, NEFA, and leptin. Fatty acids oleate and palmitate were shown to inhibit T4 binding to pooled cat serum in vitro, suggesting the possibility that this mechanism was also relevant in vivo. Serum TT4 and TSH did not rise significantly. The implications for thyroid hormone (TH) action are not yet clear, but fatty acids have been proposed to inhibit the cellular uptake of TH and/or pituitary TH receptor binding, leading to TH resistance. Increased leptin may also alter sensitivity to negative feedback of TH. In conclusion, feline obesity is associated with a significant increase in FT4 within the normal range; future investigation into the cellular thyroid status will be necessary to establish cause and effect in this obesity model.
Regulators of G-protein signaling 4 in adrenal gland: localization, regulation, and role in aldosterone secretion
Authors: Romero Damian G , Zhou Ming Yi , Yanes Licy L , Plonczynski Maria W , Washington Tanganika R , Gomez-Sanchez Celso E , Gomez-Sanchez Elise P
Published: July 2007

Regulators of G-protein signaling (RGS proteins) interact with Gα subunits of heterotrimeric G-proteins, accelerating the rate of GTP hydrolysis and finalizing the intracellular signaling triggered by the G-protein-coupled receptor (GPCR)–ligand interaction. Angiotensin II (Ang II) interacts with its GPCR in adrenal zona glomerulosa cells and triggers a cascade of intracellular signals that regulates steroidogenesis and proliferation. On screening for adrenal zona glomerulosa-specific genes, we found that RGS4 was exclusively localized in the zona glomerulosa of the rat adrenal cortex. We studied RGS4 expression and regulation in the rat adrenal gland, including the signaling pathways involved, as well as the role of RGS4 in steroidogenesis in human adrenocortical H295R cells. We reported that RGS4 mRNA expression in the rat adrenal gland was restricted to the adrenal zonal glomerulosa and upregulated by low-salt diet and Ang II infusion in rat adrenal glands in vivo. In H295R cells, Ang II caused a rapid and transient increase in RGS4 mRNA levels mediated by the calcium/calmodulin/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase and protein kinase C pathways. RGS4 overexpression by retroviral infection in H295R cells decreased Ang II-stimulated aldosterone secretion. In reporter assays, RGS4 decreased Ang II-mediated aldosterone synthase upregulation. In summary, RGS4 is an adrenal gland zona glomerulosa-specific gene that is upregulated by aldosterone secretagogues, in vivo and in vitro, and functions as a negative feedback of Ang II-triggered intracellular signaling. Alterations in RGS4 expression levels or functions may be involved in deregulations of Ang II signaling and abnormal aldosterone secretion.
Selection of a Water‐Extractable Phosphorus Test for Manures and Biosolids as an Indicator of Runoff Loss Potential
Authors: Kleinman Peter , Sullivan Dan , Wolf Ann , Brandt Robin , Dou Zhengxia , Elliott Herschel , Kovar John , Leytem April , Maguire Rory , Moore Philip , Saporito Lou , Sharpley Andrew , Shober Amy , Sims Tom , Toth John , Toor Gurpal , Zhang Hailin , Zhang Tiequan
Published: July 2007

The correlation of runoff phosphorus (P) with water‐extractable phosphorus (WEP) in land‐applied manures and biosolids has spurred wide use of WEP as a water quality indicator. Land managers, planners, and researchers need a common WEP protocol to consistently use WEP in nutrient management. Our objectives were to (i) identify a common WEP protocol with sufficient accuracy and precision to be adopted by commercial testing laboratories and (ii) confirm that the common protocol is a reliable index of runoff P. Ten laboratories across North America evaluated alternative protocols with an array of manure and biosolids samples. A single laboratory analyzed all samples and conducted a separate runoff study with the manures and biosolids. Extraction ratio (solution:solids) was the most important factor affecting WEP, with WEP increasing from 10:1 to 100:1 and increasing from 100:1 to 200:1. When WEP was measured by a single laboratory, correlations with runoff P from packed soil boxes amended with manure and biosolids ranged from 0.79 to 0.92 across all protocol combinations (extraction ratio, filtration method, and P determination method). Correlations with P in runoff were slightly lower but significant when WEP was measured by the 10 labs (r = 0.56–0.86). Based on laboratory repeatability and water quality evaluation criteria, we recommend the following common protocol: 100:1 extraction ratio; 1‐h shaking and centrifuge 10 min at 1500 × g (filter with Whatman #1 paper if necessary); and determining P by inductively coupled plasma–atomic emission spectrometry or colorimetric methods.
Race and Ethnicity in Biomedical Research
Authors: Powe Neil R. , Yearby Ruqaiijah , Wilson M. Roy
Published: February 2025

This Viewpoint discusses recommendations to rethink and redesign the use of race and ethnicity in biomedical research and provides steps to facilitate the process.
Cognitive Decline After First-Time Transient Ischemic Attack
Authors: Del Bene Victor A. , Howard George , Gropen Toby I. , Lyerly Michael J. , Howard Virginia J. , Sawyer Russell P. , Lazar Ronald M.
Published: February 2025

Importance

Prior research suggests reduced cognitive function after transient ischemic attack (TIA). Whether this is directly related to the TIA, a function of preexisting risk factors, or prior cognitive decline remains unclear.

Objective

To study if a single, diffusion-weighted image–negative, adjudicated TIA is associated with longitudinal declines in cognition, independent of preexisting risk factors.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This was a secondary data analysis from the Reasons for Geographic and Racial Differences in Stroke (REGARDS) study, a population-based cohort following up 30 239 Black and White participants for incident cerebrovascular events. The setting consisted of telephone cognitive assessments. Participants were individuals with first-time TIA, first-time stroke, and asymptomatic community control groups with neuroimaging used for adjudication.

Exposures

First-time TIA and stroke.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Verbal fluency and memory measures administered biannually. Primary outcome was a composite standardized z score, with secondary outcomes individual test performances. Adjusted segmented regression models characterized pre-event and postevent cognition and annual cognitive change.

Results

Included in the study were 356 individuals with first-time TIA (mean [SD] age, 66.6 [8.7]; 188 female [53%]) and 965 individuals with first-time stroke (mean [SD] age, 66.8 [8.2]; 494 male [51%]). A total of 14 882 individuals (mean [SD] age, 63.2 [8.6] years; 8439 female [57%]) were included in the asymptomatic control group. Overall cognitive composite before index event was lower in the stroke (−0.25; 95% CI, −0.32 to −0.17) than TIA (−0.05; 95% CI: −0.17 to 0.07; P = .005) and asymptomatic (0; 95% CI, −0.03 to 0.03; P < .001) groups. After the index event, the cognitive composite of the group with stroke significantly declined (−0.14; 95% CI, −0.21 to −0.07) compared with that of the group with TIA (0.01; 95% CI, −0.10 to 0.12; P = .02) and controls (−0.03; 95% CI, −0.05 to −0.01; P = .003). The annual decline after the index event was faster (P = .001) in the group with TIA (−0.05; 95% CI, −0.06 to −0.03) than that for asymptomatic controls (−0.02; 95% CI, −0.02 to −0.02) but not different from the group with stroke (−0.04; 95% CI, −0.05 to −0.03; P = .43).

Conclusions and Relevance

Results of this cohort study suggest that despite the quick resolution of stroke symptoms in TIA, there was apparently sufficient impact to be associated with long-term cognitive decline. Whether the underlying mechanisms are by direct or secondary injury and/or interaction with concomitant neurodegenerative factors remains to be elucidated.
Ultra‐Effective Light‐Activated Antibacterial Activity via Carboxyl Functionalized Graphene Quantum Dots and Films
Authors: Hassnain Muhammad , van Hofwegen Laure S. , Kaleli Humeyra Nur , Kubanaliev Temirlan , Eroglu Zafer , Onal Asim , Balraadjsing Payal P. S. , Metin Onder , Alkan Fahri , Zaat Sebastian A. J. , Nizamoglu Sedat
Published: February 2025

Bacterial infections are a major healthcare concern. Clinical application of photo‐activated quantum dots to efficiently treat bacterial infections has been hindered by inadequate production of reactive oxygen species. In this study, photoactive antimicrobial carboxyl‐functionalized graphene quantum dots (cGQDs) are synthesized with an exceptionally high singlet oxygen (1O2) quantum yield of 0.88. Compared to non‐functionalized GQDs, cGQDs exhibit over a 20‐fold enhancement in the 1O2 quantum yield. According to the density functional theory simulations, the dramatic increase of 1O2 quantum yield is due to significantly enhanced spin–orbit coupling between singlet and triplet excited states of GQDs with addition of ─COOH groups. Under low‐intensity blue light (5 mW cm−
2), Staphylococcus aureus is completely eliminated with just 0.8 µg mL−1 of cGQDs, and a minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) of 0.4 µg mL−1 is determined, representing the lowest MBC reported against S. aureus using light‐activated quantum dots. Layer‐by‐layer assembly of cGQD films also results in over a 99.9% reduction against multi‐drug resistant Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli under illumination. cGQDs, both in suspension and as a nano‐assembled film, exhibit good  cell viability in mammalian cells under both dark and light conditions. These results highlight the strong potential of cGQDs as an effective nanomaterial for antibacterial applications.
Density of States around the Valence Top Region of Cu2O Thin Films Observed with Constant‐Initial‐State and Constant‐Final‐State Photoelectron Yield Spectroscopy
Authors: Inoue Shiun , Tateno Manato , Nakazawa Ryotaro , Miyagi Daichi , Kim Minseok , Jia Junjun , Shigesato Yuzo , Ishii Hisao
Published: February 2025

The performance of a semiconductor device crucially depends on the carrier concentration of the semiconducting material. The hole concentration is governed by the density of states (DOS) and the Fermi–Dirac distribution, indicating the importance of the DOS in the top region of the valence band. Herein, the DOS of the valence band top region of nondoped and nitrogen‐doped Cu2O films using UV photoelectron spectroscopy and constant‐final‐state yield spectroscopy is measured. The obtained DOS varies over six orders of magnitude from the valence band to the Fermi level. Judging from the DOS and the hole density observed from the Hall effect measurements, the valence band maximum (VBM) in the DOS distribution is then determined. The traditional method of determining the VBM by linear extrapolation of the onset region cannot reproduce the hole density; instead, the calculation requires the weak DOS of the in‐gap states above the traditional VBM up to the Fermi level. The wave function difference between the valence states and in‐gap states, observed using constant‐initial‐state yield spectroscopy, suggests that the traditional VBM is close to the border at which the wave function switches from conducting valence states to trap‐like in‐gap states.
Electrochemical Exfoliation of Layered Non‐van der Waals Crystals into 2D Nanosheets: MAX Phases and Beyond
Authors: Zheng Lei , Li Heng , Kovalska Evgeniya , Luxa Jan , Yu Ruizhi , Zhou Huaijuan , Chen Manfang , Wu Bing , Sofer Zdenek
Published: February 2025

2D materials have rapidly gained attention due to their exceptional properties like high surface area, flexibility, and tunable electronic characteristics. These attributes make them highly versatile for applications in energy storage, electronics, and biomedicine. Inspired by graphene’s success, researchers are exploring other 2D materials from bulk crystals. Electrochemical exfoliation (ECE) is an efficient method for producing these materials, offering more sustainable mild conditions, quick processing, simple equipment, and high yields. While substantial progress has been made in the ECE of layered van der Waals (L‐vdW) crystals, the exploration of layered non‐van der Waals (L‐NvdW) materials remains in its early stages. This review delves into using ECE to create 2D nanoplatelets from L‐NvdW crystals. A comparative analysis of exfoliation techniques is provided for L‐vdW and L‐NvdW materials, followed by a comprehensive overview of recent advances in ECE methods applied to L‐NvdW crystals. The discussion is organized around key categories, including the selective extraction of “M” and “A” layers respectively from MAX phases, decalcification of Zintl phases, and oxide delocalization from metal oxides. It is concluded by highlighting the potential applications of these 2D materials and discussing the challenges and future directions in this evolving field.
AtSubP‐2.0: An integrated web server for the annotation of Arabidopsis proteome subcellular localization using deep learning
Authors: Duhan Naveen , Kaundal Rakesh
Published: February 2025

The organization of subcellular components in a cell is critical for its function and studying cellular processes, protein–protein interactions, identifying potential drug targets, network analysis, and other systems biology mechanisms. Determining protein localization experimentally is time‐consuming and expensive. Due to the need for meticulous experimentation, validation, and data analysis, computational methods provide a quick and accurate alternative. Arabidopsis thaliana, a beneficial model organism in plant biology, facilitates experimentation and applies to other plants. Predicting its proteins' subcellular localization can improve our understanding of cellular processes and have applications in crop improvement and biotechnology. We propose AtSubP‐2.0, an extension of our previously developed and widely used AtSubP v1.0 tool for annotating the Arabidopsis proteome. For precise protein subcellular localization prediction, AtSubP‐2.0 employs a four‐phase strategy. The first phase differentiates between single and dual localization with accuracy (97.66% in fivefold training/testing, 98.10% on independent data) and high Matthews correlation coefficient (0.88 training, 0.90 independent). Single localized proteins are classified into 12 locations at the second phase, with accuracy (98.37% in fivefold training/testing, 97.43% on independent data) and Matthews correlation coefficient (0.94 training, 0.91 independent). The third phase categorizes dual location proteins into nine classes with accuracy (99.65% in fivefold training/testing, 98.16% on independent data) and Matthews correlation coefficient (0.92 training, 0.87 independent). We also employed a fourth phase that classifies the membrane type proteins predicted in phase I into single‐pass and multi‐pass membrane with accuracy (98% in fivefold training/testing, 98.55% on independent data) and a high Matthews correlation coefficient (0.95 training, 0.97 independent). A web‐based prediction server has been implemented for community use and is freely available at https://kaabil.net/AtSubP2/, including a standalone version. AtSubP2 will help researchers to better understand organelle‐specific functions, cellular processes, and regulatory mechanisms important for plant growth, development, and response to environmental stimuli.
Social contacts, unemployment, and experienced well-being: evidence from time-use data
Authors: Hoang Thi Truong An , Knabe Andreas
Published: February 2025

We analyze how differences in the frequency and intensity of social contacts contribute to the experienced well-being of employed and unemployed individuals. In the UK Time-Use Survey, we observe that people generally enjoy being with others more than being alone. The unemployed tend to feel worse than the employed when engaging in the same kind of activities, partly because they are more often alone. The unemployed cannot spend time with other people at work but spend slightly more time with private contacts than the employed. In terms of experienced well-being, the slight increase in time spent with family and friends (which people enjoy a lot) offsets the loss of work contacts (which people generally enjoy only a little). Hence, we do not find that the differences in the social-contact composition between the employed and the unemployed are associated with differences in their experienced well-being.
Prevalence, incidence, and thromboembolic events in polycythemia vera: a study based on longitudinal German health claims data
Authors: Manz Karina C. , Mocek Anja , Morouj Bashar , Merker Katharina , Feuerbach Marc , Höer Ariane , Weber Valeria , Norris Raeleesha , Grosser Susanne , Andersohn Frank , Al-Ali Haifa Kathrin
Published: February 2025

There is little evidence, particularly in Germany, on the epidemiology and the cytoreductive management of polycythemia vera (PV). We performed an observational study based on anonymized health claims data to provide estimates of the epidemiology of PV in Germany, to describe the use of cytoreductive drugs in patients with PV, and to assess the occurrence of thromboembolic events (TEs) in prevalent patients on continuous treatment with relevant cytoreductive drugs over time. For the year 2021, we estimated a PV prevalence of 28.6 per 100,000 and an incidence of 3.3 per 100,000 in the German adult population (≥ 18 years). We identified 83.2% of prevalent patients in 2021 as being at high risk for thromboembolic complications, based on age (≥ 60 years) and/or history of TEs. Contrary to treatment guidelines, 43.6% of these high-risk patients did not receive cytoreductive drug treatment in 2021. 63.5% of patients in 2021 who were treated with hydroxyurea (but not ruxolitinib) in that year, met our defined proxy criteria for intolerance/resistance to hydroxyurea. Over time, we observed a lower proportion of patients with TEs in patients continuously treated with ruxolitinib compared to patients treated with hydroxyurea who also met our defined proxy criteria for intolerance/resistance to hydroxyurea (35.8% vs. 56.3% after three years). Our findings suggest that currently available cytoreductive therapies are not being fully utilized according to treatment guidelines, which may lead to avoidable thromboembolic complications in this patient population.
The Comparison Between Outdoor Play Spaces, Equipment, and Resources in Low Versus High Socioeconomic Johannesburg Early Childhood Development Centres
Authors: Clarkson Lara , Botha Marica , Linde Janine van der
Published: February 2025

Play spaces facilitate play as a child’s primary occupation which is essential for learning and early childhood development. In South African early childhood development centres, almost 11% do not have access to outdoor play areas, 20% have no outdoor play equipment, and 50% have no access to educational toys (Early Childhood Development in South Africa. Education Series. IV (No. 92-01-04),100, Available: http://www.statssa.gov.za/publications/92-01-04/92-01-042016.pdf). This research aimed to compare the physical design and resources of outdoor play spaces in low socioeconomic (LSE) versus high socioeconomic (HSE) early childhood development (ECD) centres in Johannesburg. A descriptive comparative research design was used, with a total population sampling method for the distribution of a self-developed questionnaire adapted from play literature. Results were obtained from a total sample size of 82 ECD centres, 28 reported LSE and 54 reported HSE. Quantitative data was analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics. LSE-ECD centres (57% community-based sites) had significantly less funding frequency compared to HSE-ECD centres (83% independent / private schools), with 87% private funding at least annually for outdoor play space upkeep. LSE-ECD centres had limited outdoor play space resource variety and quantity (7% had no outdoor play space, 43% had traditional playground designs, 14% had no fixed playground equipment), compared to HSE-ECD centres with a wide variety and abundance of outdoor play space resources. Chi-square statistics revealed a significantly higher number of fixed and loose manufactured equipment, movement toys, fixed and loose natural resources, and multi-sensory exploration spaces in HSE-ECD centres. Cramer’s V statistics revealed outdoor play space physical design and resource availability have a strong dependence on socioeconomic status.
Pragmatic Interoperability for Human–Machine Value Creation in Agri-Food Supply Chains
Authors: Obayi Raymond , Choudhary Sonal , Nayak Rakesh , GV Ramanjaneyulu
Published: February 2025

This study delves into the dynamics of pragmatic interoperability, focusing on the case of a digital ecosystem in India —the eKrishi platform—which combines of industry 4.0 technologies with human-centric principles. Through qualitative analysis, we unveil the motivations shaping system and business-level interoperability alignment. We found that three categories of sustainability metrics—socio-economic, socio-ecological, and eco-efficiency— are driven by diverse pragmatic views. Furthermore, we found that system-level alignment is driven by actors’ defensive strategy for compliance and standardization, while business level interoperability is underpinned by actors’ offensive strategy for social and economic innovation. The study introduces a 2 × 2 alignment framework—corporate citizenship, regulatory stewardship, corporate stewardship, and value chain stewardship—offering nuanced insights. By aligning systems and business motives for pragmatic interoperability, we contribute towards theory building on interoperability and provide practical implications for guiding stakeholder alignment in Industry 4.0 initiatives.
Exploring the Lived Experiences of Iranian Adolescents Exhibiting Suicidal Behavior and Ideation
Authors: Arbabi Khatereh , Yeh Christine Jean , Sangkar Parvaneh Rahmati
Published: February 2025

Suicide is a complex phenomenon influenced by various individual and contextual factors that may inform prevention efforts. This research is part of a comprehensive project conducted in the chain clinics of Iris Company (pseudonym) throughout Iran. 1). The objective of the study was to expand the current literature on adolescent suicidality by qualitatively exploring the lived experiences of adolescents with a history of at least one suicide attempt and suicidal ideation through in-depth semi-structured interviews. 2). Participants: The sample included 69 Iranian adolescents (38 females and 31 males) aged 15–19 years from diverse cultural and societal backgrounds across various regions of Iran. 3). Results: Data were analyzed using the Colaizzi method of phenomenological analysis (Praveena & Sasikumar, 2021), resulting in six main themes and 14 sub-themes. The main themes were: (1) overwhelming emotional pain, (2) influence of traditional cultural values, (3) desire for stronger connections, (4) openness to treatment, (5) wish to improve life, and (6) feeling trapped in the present. 4). Conclusions: This study addresses gaps in prior research and aims to advance the understanding of adolescent suicide prevention. The authors emphasize the importance of family and relational contexts in understanding suicide risk among adolescents and highlight the roles of family therapy and peer support in developing prevention and intervention strategies for at-risk youth.
Caregiver Satisfaction with Anxiety Treatment for Autistic Youth: A Mixed Methods Examination
Authors: Norris Lesley A. , Rabner Jonathan C. , Marklin Marika , Crane Margaret E. , Renschler Kathrin , Jenkins Emma , Kemp Joshua , Storch Eric A. , Wood Jeffrey J. , Kerns Connor M. , Lewin Adam B. , Small Brent J. , Kendall Philip C.
Published: February 2025

For Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to best meet the specific needs of autistic youth with co-occurring anxiety and to continue to grow as a sustainable treatment option, it is important to incorporate caregiver perspectives and feedback. Data were drawn from a randomized controlled trial and included 148 caregivers of autistic youth (ages 7–13 years, M = 9.89, SD = 1.79; 23% female; 77.7% White) with co-occurring anxiety disorders randomized to one of two active treatment conditions (Coping Cat, n = 72, or Behavioral Interventions for Anxiety in Children with Autism [BIACA], n = 76). A systematic inductive thematic analysis was used to code open-ended parent responses on the Consumer Satisfaction Questionnaire to identify what caregivers of autistic children with co-occurring anxiety liked most and least about their child’s treatment. Satisfaction with treatment was high (M = 64.98, SD = 5.48). Caregivers’ most-liked treatment features across treatments included (a) tools and coping skills, (b) therapeutic alliance, (c) caregiver support and involvement, (d) personalized treatment, and (e) treatment efficacy. Least-liked features of treatment and family participation included (a) the commute to the clinic, (b) treatment length, (c) commitment required at home, (d) questionnaires, and (e) scheduling. Treatment responders endorsed therapeutic alliance more frequently. Caregivers in BIACA endorsed caregiver support and involvement at higher rates, in addition to commitment required at home. Caregiver responses indicated a preference for more sessions and highlighted the importance of balancing need for caregiver involvement in treatment while reducing caregiver burden.
Enhanced single-diode model parameter extraction method for photovoltaic cells and modules based on integrating genetic algorithm, particle swarm optimization, and comparative objective functions
Authors: Abdulrazzaq Ali Kareem , Bognár György , Plesz Balázs
Published: February 2025

Accurate modeling of the operational behavior of photovoltaic systems is crucial to optimizing and predicting system performance. One of the well-established and widely used modeling techniques is the single-diode equivalent circuit that delivers a sufficiently accurate description of the electric behavior of both photovoltaic cells and modules under various operational conditions. The single-diode model uses five parameters to reproduce the I-V curve for specific operational conditions. However, these five parameters must be extracted from measured or simulated I-V curves. This paper proposes a novel, accurate, and fast method for extracting the single-diode model’s five parameters from measured I-V curves based on a genetic algorithm combined with particle swarm optimization to find the optimal controlling parameters of the genetic algorithm. This approach results in a significant performance improvement in accuracy and convergence speed. The paper also proposes a concept for determining the optimum number of current–voltage data points in the I-V curve, enabling an optimum trade-off between a sufficiently high accuracy and computational costs. Finally, the effect of different objective function formulations on the result has been investigated by comparing the usage of three different objective functions: the implicit form of the single-diode model, the Lambert W-function-based formulation of the explicit single-diode model, and a system of equations based on least square fitting. From the results, it could be concluded that the implicit formulation of the single-diode model delivered the best results compared to the two other formulations. Performance evaluations showed significantly lower error values than recent literature, with mean percent errors of 0.038%, 0.34%, and 0.87% received for the investigated monocrystalline cell, poly-crystalline module, and amorphous module, respectively. The computational cost was reduced by more than 60% after determining the optimum number of I-V points per curve, which was in the range of 20–30 points for each measured curve.
Intersections of Mind and Machine: Navigating the Nexus of Artificial Intelligence, Science Education, and the Preparation of Pre-service Teachers
Authors: Cooper Grant , Tang Kok-Sing , Fitzgerald Angela
Published: February 2025

The rapid advancement of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) is reshaping various sectors, including education. This editorial explores the intersections of AI, science education, and the preparation of pre-service teachers (PSTs), questioning whether GenAI represents a truly transformative technology or merely the latest iteration of an educational hype cycle. While previous technological innovations—such as radio, television, and computers—were initially heralded as revolutionary, their impact on education has varied significantly. The emergence of GenAI, particularly large language models, introduces new possibilities for personalised learning, digital tutoring, and adaptive content generation, yet its integration into educational practice remains uneven. Despite growing societal reliance on GenAI, a substantial proportion of in-service teachers report limited use, citing a lack of training and institutional policies as key barriers. In contrast, research suggests that PSTs are already engaging with GenAI tools for lesson planning, content summarisation, and assessment preparation. This editorial underscores the need for initial teacher education (ITE) programmes to provide structured support, ensuring that PSTs develop both technical proficiency and critical AI literacy. Ethical concerns—such as data privacy, algorithmic bias, and epistemic authority—must also be central to teacher training. Focusing on science education, this special issue examines the opportunities and challenges of GenAI integration. The contributions explore PSTs’ perceptions, competencies, and preparedness to implement AI-driven tools in their teaching, addressing themes such as inquiry-based learning, pedagogical content knowledge, and the evolving role of educators in AI-powered classrooms. The discussion highlights the necessity of balancing technological innovation with critical reflection, equipping future teachers to navigate the complexities of AI in education responsibly. This editorial aims to advance the dialogue on GenAI’s role in teacher preparation, urging educational institutions to proactively support PSTs in harnessing its potential while fostering a critical, ethical, and pedagogically sound approach to AI integration in science education.
Diffuse interface model for fluid lipid vesicles with area-difference elasticity
Authors: Bottacchiari Matteo , Gallo Mirko , Bussoletti Marco , Casciola Carlo Massimo
Published: February 2025

Lipid bilayer membranes are fundamental biological barriers both at the cellular and sub-cellular level. They are both very stable and extremely deformable, characteristics that make membrane vesicles an efficient system for drug delivery applications. In most cases, due to the scale separation between the membrane thickness and the vesicle size, fluid lipid vesicles can be described as elastic sheets that deform as prescribed by a curvature dependent energy. At the same time, vesicle scale and membrane thickness may become simultaneously important in several key biological processes, such as vesicle fusion/fission, which are also pivotal steps for drug delivery. Recently, we provided a diffuse interface description of lipid vesicles that contains both the large scale of the vesicle and the small thickness of the membrane, allowing to account for multiscale effects in membrane fusion/fission (Bottacchiari et al. in PNAS Nexus 3:300, 2024). Here, after reviewing the main features of the approach and the related results, we analyze an additional term for the diffuse interface that takes into account the so-called area-difference elasticity, namely an energy term that considers the cost for the flip-flop motion of a lipid between the two monolayers constituting the bilayer membrane. Results are validated against those obtained with the (sharp-interface) area-difference elasticity model.
An Experimental Method for Fatigue Testing Cast Iron Water Pipes Using Combined Internal Water Pressure and Bending Loads
Authors: John E. D. A. , Boxall J. B. , Collins R. P. , Bowman E. T. , Susmel L.
Published: February 2025

Background

Investigations into the fatigue failures mechanism of Grey Cast Iron (GCI) water pipes are inhibited by the lack of a lab-based method to conduct extensive high-cycle biaxial fatigue test programmes.

Objective

The work presented in this paper developed and tested a novel experiment capable of causing controlled fatigue failures of GCI pipe specimens in the high-cycle fatigue regime using bending and internal water pressure fatigue loading.

Methods

A novel four-point bending and internal water pressure fatigue testing system was developed to apply constant amplitude out-of-phase biaxial loading to 58 mm diameter GCI pipes at 1.7 Hz. To verify the ability of this equipment to apply known stresses and repeatable loads to pipe specimens a series of tests were conducted. A finite element model of the pipe specimen was used to estimate the strains and displacements applied by the equipment.

Results

Experimental strains and displacements were mainly within ± 10% of the estimated values and the pressure amplitudes measured over 103 cycles were within ± 3% of the average. Dynamic load effects occurred at higher bending loads, but these were quantified and accounted for. Trial destructive tests revealed that the lifespan of leaking fatigue cracks in GCI pipes with uniform wall-loss subject to combined internal pressure and bending fatigue loads is less than 1% of the total cycles-to-burst.

Conclusions

The experimental method developed was able to apply combined, out-of-phase internal pressure and bending fatigue loads accurately and consistently to small-dimeter GCI pipes, and cause these pipes to develop high-cycle fatigue regime failures.
Impact of Mlkl or Ripk3 deletion on age-associated liver inflammation, metabolic health, and lifespan
Authors: Mohammed Sabira , Ohene-Marfo Phoebe , Jiang Chao , Peng Zongkai , Thadathil Nidheesh , Tran Albert , Nicklas Evan , Bhaskaran Shylesh , Wang Dawei , Selvarani Ramasamy , Singh Amit , Yang Zhibo , Ahsan Nagib , Deepa Sathyaseelan S.
Published: February 2025

Chronic, low-grade inflammation is a hallmark of aging and various age-related diseases, including metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD). The prevalence of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH), an advanced form of MASLD, increases with age and contributes to morbidity and mortality among the elderly. This study investigates the role of necroptosis, a programmed cell death pathway that promotes inflammation, in liver inflammaging and age-associated MASLD by utilizing genetic ablation models of two key necroptosis proteins, Mlkl or Ripk3. The absence of Mlkl or Ripk3 significantly reduced liver inflammation, steatosis, and fibrosis in aged male mice, supporting the role of necroptosis in age-associated MASLD. Additionally, Mlkl or Ripk3 deletion impacted other non-necroptotic cellular processes that drive inflammation and MASLD, such as cellular senescence, apoptosis, and autophagy in aged liver. Levels of plasma TNFα and IL6, key proinflammatory cytokines associated with inflammaging, are reduced in Mlkl

−/−
or Ripk3

−/−
aged mice, supporting a systemic effect of necroptosis inhibition on inflammation. Proteomic analysis of liver tissues emphasizes the critical role of lipid and immune regulatory processes in maintaining liver homeostasis when Mlkl or Ripk3 is absent in aging liver. While Mlkl deletion did not affect the lifespan of mice, Ripk3 deletion shortened it. Additionally, Mlkl deficiency improved insulin sensitivity, whereas Ripk3 deficiency exacerbated glucose intolerance in aged mice. Thus, selective inhibition of Mlkl, not Ripk3, represents a potential therapeutic avenue for mitigating age-related liver disease and enhancing metabolic outcomes in the elderly.
Association of Primary Care Access with Health-Related ChatGPT Use: A National Cross-Sectional Survey
Authors: Ayo-Ajibola Oluwatobiloba , Julien Catherine , Lin Matthew E. , Riddell Jeffrey , Duan Naihua , Kravitz Richard L.
Published: February 2025

Background

ChatGPT has quickly gained popularity as a source of online health information (OHI). However, it is unclear how having a usual source of primary care (USPC) is related to OHI-seeking.

Objective

Explore how having a USPC and other characteristics thought to affect access-to-care influence the use of ChatGPT and other OHI forms.

Design

Cross-sectional national survey.

Participants

Adult members of ResearchMatch, a non-profit affiliate of the National Institutes of Health, between June and August 2023.

Main Measures

The survey evaluated demographics, health characteristics, and OHI-seeking behaviors, including ChatGPT usage. OHI sources were categorized as “passive” (Google, Wikipedia, WebMD) and “interactive” (forums, Q&A sites, ChatGPT). Descriptive statistics, t-tests, and chi-square tests compared users by USPC status. Multiple logistic regression estimated adjusted effects on ChatGPT use.

Key Results

Of 21,499 adults invited to participate in the survey, 2406 (11.2%) responded. Among respondents, 56% reported having a USPC. Those with a USPC, compared to those without, were older, spoke English as their primary language, had higher income, and had more formal education (all p<.001). Participants with a USPC were more likely to use passive OHI (OR 2.46, 95% CI 1.55–3.90, p<.001) and less likely to use interactive OHI (OR 0.73, 95% CI 0.60–0.89, p=.002) or ChatGPT (OR 0.56, 95% CI 0.44–0.71, p<.001). Age over 50 (OR 0.11, 95% CI 0.06–0.20, p<.001), non-White race (OR 0.51, 95% CI 0.38–0.70, p<.001), very good or better health (OR 0.71, 95% CI 0.55–0.92, p=.009), and college education (OR 0.61, 95% CI 0.39–0.97, p=.035) were inversely related to ChatGPT use.

Conclusions

In this national survey of patients participating in a clinical research matching service, those with regular primary care access relied less on ChatGPT, suggesting that a personal primary care relationship may attenuate the need or motivation to use AI-derived OHI.
Adoption of Hydrogen as a Climate-Neutral Reducing Agent for Recovering Metals from Copper Slag
Authors: Chen Min , Sukhomlinov Dmitry , Taskinen Pekka , Hamuyuni Joseph , Tiljander Mia , Lindgren Mari , Lindberg Daniel
Published: February 2025

This study explores a sustainable approach for the recovery of metal values from copper slag using hydrogen (H2). The high-temperature isothermal reduction experiments were carried out under a controlled H2-Ar atmosphere and the subsequent molten slag extraction technique was employed. The elemental concentrations in both the metal/matte and the reduced slag were examined using inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy and electron probe microanalysis. It was found that the submerged H2 blowing technique has a superior impact to top surface blowing on recovering metals from copper slag due to improved mass and heat transfer in the slag. Approximately 65 pct of copper of the initial 1.19 wt pct can be reduced into copper alloy after reduction by submerged H2 blowing with the lowest concentration of 0.4 wt pct in slag. More than 90 pct of zinc and lead deported into the gas phase as metals. This research contributes to the ongoing efforts to enhance the sustainability of metallurgical processes and reduce their environmental footprint.

Graphical Abstract
New Insights Into Hydrogen Reduction of Hematite in an Indirectly Heated Flash Reactor from Measurements and First-Order Modeling
Authors: Mokhtarani Babak , Jafarian Mehdi , Sabah Shabnam , Dufty Tom , Brooks Geoffrey , Saw Woei , Chinnici Alfonso , Nathan Graham J.
Published: February 2025

New pilot-scale experimental data are reported for hematite reduction with hydrogen in an indirectly heated flash reactor, named the Zero Emission Steel Technology (ZESTY) reactor, together with analysis with a one-dimensional well-stirred reactor and kinetic model. The process feeds particles by gravity through a tubular reactor, which is indirectly heated through the walls that are maintained at a range of uniform temperatures from 850 to 1100 °C to achieve metallization of up to 95 pct. Process modeling is performed with Aspen Plus utilizing two kinetic models, namely the modified Sohn and mixed control models, together with a number of assumptions. The kinetic parameters are then adjusted with experimental data to best match the measured conversion. Calculations for hematite particle residence times consider particle velocity within the reactor, alongside particle size with the density modified to account for conversion extent. The modified model provides a reasonable match of the increase in the metallization degree of hematite with rising temperatures across the range of operating conditions. Moreover, elevating the hydrogen stoichiometric ratio correlates with increased metallization degree. Also as expected, an increase in the particle size adversely influences the metallization degree through decreasing the residence time. The level of agreement and internal consistency increases confidence in the reported results and interpretation of the measurements.
USP14 targets FABP5-mediated ferroptosis to promote proliferation and cisplatin resistance of HNSCC
Authors: Qian Jiaxin , Zhao Zitong , Ma Liying , Liu Wensheng , Song Yongmei
Published: February 2025

Background

Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) ranks among the most lethal solid tumors in humans, with a five-year survival rate hovering around 50%. The limited understanding of its biological foundation has hindered the development of efficacious targeted therapeutics.

Methods

TCGA database and immunohistochemistry were deployed to confirm the expression levels of ubiquitin specific protease 14 (USP14). CCK8 method was used to evaluate the influence of USP14 on cisplatin resistance. Further investigations into the role of USP14 were conducted through assessments of cell proliferation, colony formation, and Transwell assays. The impact of USP14 expression on ferroptosis was evaluated by measuring GSH/GSSG ratios, Fe2+ concentrations, and lipid peroxide levels. Co-IP was employed to verify the interaction between USP14 and FABP5.

Results

Our analysis revealed that USP14 ranked among the most prominently upregulated deubiquitinases (DUBs) in tissue samples of HNSCC. Notably, aberrant USP14 expression was linked to tumorigenesis and the malignant evolution of HNSCC and further suggested a poor prognosis. In vitro experiment revealed that USP14 depletion markedly inhibited cell growth, cisplatin resistance, invasion and migration capabilities of HNSCC cells. Mechanically, USP14 inhibits FABP5 ubiquitination and degradation, thus positively modulating FABP5 expression. Subsequent analyses demonstrated that the loss of USP14 promoted ferroptosis in HNSCC cells. Finally, in vivo xenograft experiments confirmed that the USP14 small molecular antagonist IU1 could effectively attenuate cisplatin resistance in HNSCC.

Conclusion

The results indicate that the USP14-FABP5 axis exerts oncogenic effects on HNSCC, providing a potential target for diagnosing and treating this type of malignancy.
Epidemiology of colorectal cancer: A review with special emphasis on India
Authors: Shivshankar Samyukta , Patil Prachi S. , Deodhar Kedar , Budukh Atul M.
Published: February 2025

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a common malignancy and cause for death around the world. In India, it ranks as the fourth most incident cancer in both sexes, with 64,863 cases and 38,367 deaths in 2022. With such high mortality, CRC survival in India is way lesser than that of developed countries. While western countries are facing an overall decline in CRC incidence, various regions in India are seeing an increasing trend. Within India, urban regions have markedly higher incidence than rural. Risk factors include consumption of red and processed meat, fried and sugary food, smoking and alcohol, comorbidities such as obesity, diabetes and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), family history of CRC, adenomas and genetic syndromes, radiation exposure, pesticides and asbestos. Consumption of nutrient-rich well-balanced diets abundant in vegetables, dairy products, whole grains, nuts and legumes combined with physical activity are protective against CRC. Besides these, metformin, aspirin and micronutrient supplements were inversely associated with the development of CRC. Since a considerable proportion of CRC burden is attributed to modifiable risk factors, execution of population level preventive strategies is essential to limit the growing burden of CRC. Identifying the necessity, in this review, we explore opportunities for primary prevention and for identifying high-risk populations of CRC to control its burden in the near future.