bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Relationship Between FODMAP Diet and Irritable Bowel Syndrome: A Mendelian Randomization Study
Authors: Wang Lu , Cao Wei , Zheng Qian‐Hua , Li Dehua , Hou Yujun , Chen Shuai , Luo Fangli , Xiao Xianjun , Chen Ying , Li Ying , Zhou Siyuan
Published: February 2025

There is some evidence of a link between fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides and polyols (FODMAP) diet and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). However, few studies have analyzed the relationship between specific dietary intakes and IBS using Mendelian randomization (MR). Exposure and outcome datasets were sourced from the IEU Open GWAS project. Genetic variants significantly associated with 28 dietary intakes at a genome‐wide level were selected as instrumental variables. Summary statistics for the target outcome of IBS were obtained with a sample of 187,028 European individuals (4605 cases, 182,423 controls). Univariable and multivariable MR analyses were conducted to estimate the overall and independent MR associations after adjustment for genetic liability to intestinal flora. Genetic predispositions to six of 28 dietary intakes were associated with a decreased risk of IBS, including dried fruit, beef, cereal, lobster/crab, cereal, feta, and coffee, while cherry and poultry intake were associated with an increased risk of IBS. Three of eight associations persisted after adjusting for genetically predicted intestinal flora, and multivariable MR analysis identified that salad/raw vegetable intake was associated with a decreased risk of IBS. Twenty of 28 dietary intakes did not remain significantly associated after adjustment for intestinal flora. This study provides MR evidence supporting causal associations between FODMAP dietary intakes and IBS.
Fermented Royal Jelly Enriched With 10‐Hydroxydecanoic Acid and Its Potential for Enhancing Mucosal Immunity
Authors: Itatani Hayate , Yamaki Ayanori , Konishi Kaori , Okamoto Hideto , Okumura Nobuaki , Shigematsu Norihiro , Misumi Shogo , Takenaka Shinji
Published: February 2025

Royal jelly (RJ) is known to contain 10‐hydroxydecanoic acid (10HDAA), which has been shown to have immune activation properties, including the promotion of M cell differentiation. However, the natural concentration of 10HDAA in RJ is relatively low. To enhance the functional use of RJ as an immunostimulatory food ingredient, this study aimed to increase its 10HDAA content using bacteria capable of converting 10‐hydroxy‐2‐decenoic acid (10H2DA) to 10HDAA in RJ. A lactic acid bacterium, Lactobacillus panisapium, was isolated from the digestive tract of queen bees and demonstrated a high capacity to convert 10H2DA to 10HDAA. Using the isolated strain, fermented RJ (fRJ) with a fivefold increase in 10HDAA content was produced compared to raw RJ. Preliminary evaluations of fRJ's immune‐stimulating effects revealed significant benefits, including enhanced M cell differentiation, activation of macrophage phagocytic ability, and increased immunoglobulin (Ig) A secretion in individuals with reduced salivary IgA levels. Safety assessments confirmed that fRJ is safe for consumption. In summary, fRJ enriched with 10HDAA was produced and demonstrated potential as an immune‐stimulating food.
Evaluating the Potential of Gamma‐Glutamylcysteine and Glutathione as Substitutes for SO2 in White Wine
Authors: Guruk Mumine , Fickers Patrick , Agirman Bilal , Darıcı Merve , Erten Huseyin
Published: February 2025

Sulfur dioxide (SO2) is the most common additive used in winemaking with its antimicrobial and antioxidant properties. However, in recent years, there has been an increasing tendency to reduce the use of excessive SO2 in wine due to its negative effects on human health and organoleptic characteristics. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the potential use of glutathione (GSH) and its precursor, gamma‐glutamyl‐cysteine (gGC), which are known as strong antioxidants, for substituting SO2 in white wines. The Turkish indigenous white grape cultivar, Narince (Vitis vinifera), was used to produce white wine. The wines with additions (SO2, gGC, and GSH) and those without (control) were matured for 2 months. As a result, the protective effects of gGC and GSH additions on phenolic compounds, as well as their ability to reduce browning in white wine, were demonstrated. The addition of gGC and GSH enhanced the amount of esters and higher alcohols, improving the wine's aroma. In conclusion, gGC and GSH—particularly gGC—showed great potential as SO2 replacements in wine.
Pricing Basket Spread Options With Default Risk Under GARCH‐Jump Models
Authors: Dong Dingding , Qian Xianda , Wang Xingchun
Published: February 2025

In this article, we consider basket spread options with default risk in a pricing model, where GARCH‐jump processes are employed to describe the dynamics of all the underlying assets, and default risk is incorporated in a reduced form model. After successfully deriving the approximate pricing formula, we utilize the average cumulative default rates provided by Moody's spanning from 1970 to 2015 to estimate the parameters in the default intensity. Finally, we illustrate the impact of jump risk and default risk on basket spread options after checking the accuracy and efficiency of the approximate prices via Monte Carlo simulation methods.
Influence of a nationwide colorectal cancer screening program on the incidence of synchronous colorectal peritoneal metastases
Authors: Galanos Laskarina J. K. , Rijken Anouk , Elferink Marloes A. G. , Kok Niels F. M. , van Erning Felice N. , De Hingh Ignace H. J. T.
Published: February 2025

This study aims to assess the influence of colorectal cancer screening on the incidence of synchronous colorectal peritoneal metastases (CPM). Patients diagnosed with CPM between 2009 and 2022 were selected from the Netherlands Cancer Registry. Crude rates of the observed and expected CPM incidence were calculated per 100,000 individuals and compared. Expected incidence was extrapolated from the incidence in the years prior to screening invitation. In total, 9,238 patients with CPM were included. For the screen‐eligible population (55–75 years), the observed CPM incidence increased from 5.1 (2009) to 7.0 before screening initiation (2013) (Annual percent change [APC] 8.2%, p = .014). Since the start of screening, the observed CPM incidence stabilized: 8.8 (2014) to 8.9 (2022) (APC −1.0%, p = .159). Within the total population, the observed CPM incidence before screening showed an increase from 3.6 (2009) to 4.0 (2013) (APC 3.4%, p = .050). Since screening, a decrease in CPM incidence was observed from 4.4 (2014) to 3.5 (2022) (APC −2.2%, p = .010). The observed and expected number of CPM differed significantly in the screen‐eligible population (6,437 observed vs. 7,992 expected individuals; p < .001) and in the overall Dutch population (9,238 observed vs. 10,440 expected individuals; p < .001). In conclusion, a declining trend was observed in the incidence of CPM in the Dutch population since the start of colorectal cancer screening. The observed incidence was lower compared to the expected incidence, both in the screen‐eligible population and in the overall population. These findings suggest that screening results in a decrease of patients diagnosed with CPM possibly resulting in an improved survival of colorectal cancer patients.
Analysis of β‐Catenin Signalling Activity Suggests Differential Regulation of Ontogenetically Distinct Dentate Granule Neuron Populations
Authors: Billmann Charlotte , Schäffner Iris , Heppt Jana , Lie D. Chichung
Published: February 2025

In mammals, the dentate gyrus of the hippocampus is one of the few regions where neurogenesis continues throughout life. As a result, the dentate gyrus harbours neurons of ontogenetically different origin. Notably, ontogenetically different dentate granule neurons (DGNs) are morphologically distinct and fulfil specialized functions in hippocampal information processing and plasticity. Development of adult‐born DGNs is tightly controlled by signals released by the complex cellular environment of the adult dentate gyrus. In mice, an adult‐like cytoarchitecture of the dentate gyrus is observed only after postnatal Week 2. The question therefore arises when the signalling environment controlling adult neurogenesis is established and whether development of ontogenetically distinct DGNs is subject to the same regulatory pathways. Here, we analyse BATGAL reporter mice to determine the temporal development of β‐catenin‐signalling activity in the murine DGN lineage. We show that the β‐catenin‐signalling pattern, which is essential for precise dendritogenesis and neuronal maturation in adulthood, emerges only around 2 weeks after birth and continues to be refined over the next weeks. These results indicate that the signalling environment controlling adult neurogenesis is only gradually established and suggest that the development of ontogenetically distinct DGNs is controlled by different mechanisms.
Living‐donor liver transplantation using donors older than 50 years of age: Recipient criteria and donor risk: A multicenter study of Japanese Society of Hepato‐Biliary‐Pancreatic Surgery
Authors: Toshima Takeo , Yoshizumi Tomoharu , Takada Yasutsugu , Ito Takashi , Shinoda Masahiro , Takahara Takeshi , Ishido Keinosuke , Takamura Hiroyuki , Taketomi Akinobu , Chiba Naokazu , Nakamura Masafumi , Shirabe Ken , Endo Itaru
Published: February 2025

Background

Few published reports have addressed the feasibility of living‐donor liver transplantation (LDLT) using elderly donors. We aimed to examine LDLT outcomes in elderly donors and identify clinical factors impacting safely conducted LDLT.

Methods

This study was conducted in collaboration with the Japanese Society of Hepatobiliary‐Pancreatic Surgery. Data were collected from 140 patients who underwent LDLT using donors aged ≥50 years between 2013 and 2017 at nine collaborating hospitals.

Results

The 1‐, 3‐, and 5‐year graft survival rates in recipients after LDLT employing elderly donors were 84.3%, 78.5%, and 76.3%, respectively, with 6‐month mortality of 12.1%. Specific recipient‐donor age combinations did not emerge as adverse prognostic factors. A total of 32 recipients (22.9%) had major complications requiring reoperation after LDLT, and 15 donors (10.7%) had major complications of Clavien–Dindo grade ≥II. Multivariate analysis revealed that graft‐to‐recipient weight ratio (GRWR) <0.84% and neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio (NLR) >6.6 were independent predictors of 6‐month graft loss after LDLT.

Conclusion

LDLT using elderly donors aged ≥50 years has acceptable graft survival and morbidity rates, and donor age >50 years should not be an absolute contraindication for LDLT. In LDLT involving elderly donors, it is crucial to consider that GRWR <0.84% and NLR >6.6 are adverse prognostic factors. Addressing these factors is necessary to enhance the prognosis, aligning with the increasing public demand for this surgical procedure.
Diurnal Pattern of Heat Stress Over South Asia: A Wet Bulb Globe Temperature‐Based Analysis From 1984 to 2023
Authors: Khan Najeebullah , Kamruzzaman Mohammad , Shahid Shamsuddin
Published: February 2025

Assessing the diurnal characteristics of heat stress is crucial for understanding its daily dynamics and impacts. This study evaluates various diurnal characteristics of heat stress using the Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT) over South Asia from 1984 to 2023. The Copernicus Climate Change Service hourly ERA5 dataset was used to calculate the WBGT using the Liljegren method to assess the hourly and daily heat stress, heatwave events, duration and diurnal range for different WBGT thresholds. The results revealed significant disparities in heat stress in different South Asian regions. The western and southeastern regions are more susceptible to extreme WBGT (≥ 32.2°C), while severe WBGT (≥ 31.1°C and < 32.2°C) predominantly affected central and eastern Pakistan and southern India. The western part of South Asia experiences an average of 5.8 heatwave events, with a cumulative total of 580 h. The diurnal range indicated a WBGT range of more than 8°C in western and southeastern regions. Conversely, the areas with no heat stress are predominantly located in the Himalayas and northern Afghanistan. The average annual extreme WBGT hours in western South Asia increased by 120 h between the early (1984–2003) and late (2004–2023) periods, while the extreme WBGT days increased by 15 days. Other characteristics of WBGT also increased in the recent decades compared to 1984–2003, suggesting the implementation of measures to mitigate future WBGT increases. These findings highlight the urgent need for adaptive strategies to address escalating heat stress in the region, especially in vulnerable and highly populated areas of South Asia.
Simultaneous Ultraviolet Photoacoustic and Auto‐Fluorescence Microscopy for High‐Contrast Histological Imaging
Authors: Li Xiufeng , Huang Bingxin , Lo Claudia T. K. , Liu Chengbo , Wong Terence T. W.
Published: February 2025

Ultraviolet (UV) photoacoustic microscopy has attracted lots of attention since it can provide histological images for disease diagnosis without any tissue processing or staining, holding great potential for rapid histopathology in hospitals. However, sometimes, the nuclear contrast in the images is relatively low due to the high UV absorption of various surrounding biomolecules (e.g., heme, myoglobin, lipids, etc.), resulting in low diagnostic accuracy. Here, a label‐free dual‐modality imaging system with ultraviolet photoacoustic and auto‐fluorescence (PAAF) microscopy is proposed, which can obtain photon absorption‐induced PA and AF images simultaneously using only one UV pulsed laser. With the opposite contrast acquired in the PA and AF images and the image fusion technique, this proposed PAAF microscopy enables high‐contrast and high‐sensitivity histological imaging for various tissues, even under a low excitation energy of 0.7 nJ and a high pulse‐to‐pulse energy fluctuation of ≈30%. Mouse brain, kidney, liver, lung, and human lung tissues processed by different clinical protocols have been imaged to demonstrate the versatility of PAAF microscopy, showing its promising applications in surgical pathology.
Addition of anti‐PD‐1 immunotherapy to BRAF inhibitor‐based targeted therapy improves real‐world survival and delays brain metastases in patients with BRAFV600‐mutant advanced melanoma: a multicenter cohort study
Authors: Wu Junwan , Ding Qiuyue , Zhang Qiong , Chen Qianqi , Wen Xizhi , Ding Ya , Li Jingjing , Chen Ziluan , Zhang Tao , Wang Jiuhong , Huang Fuxue , Jiang Hang , Chen Linbin , Zhou Qiming , Li Ke , Zhang Xiaoshi , Li Dandan
Published: February 2025

Anti‐PD‐1 immunotherapy and targeted therapy (TT) represent two major therapeutic modalities for BRAFV600‐mutant advanced melanoma, but the efficacy of combination therapy in Asian populations remains unknown. Asian melanoma patients differ significantly from Caucasians in tissue subtypes, pathogenesis and response to treatment. We retrospectively analyzed data of BRAFV600‐mutant advanced melanoma patients treated with first‐line vemurafenib (V) ± anti‐PD‐1 or dabrafenib+trametinib (D+T) ± anti‐PD‐1 between 2014 and 2023 from three centers in China. 178 patients were included, with V (n = 45), D+T (n = 51), V+anti‐PD‐1 (n = 39) and D+T+anti‐PD‐1 (n = 43). The median PFS (21.9 vs. 11.1 months, p < 0.001), OS (NR vs. 32.6 months, p = 0.027), and DoR (20.0 vs. 8.4 months, p = 0.002) were significantly prolonged with D+T+anti‐PD‐1 versus D+T. Addition of anti‐PD‐1 to V also significantly prolonged PFS, OS, and DoR (p < 0.001). V+anti‐PD‐1 was superior to D+T in terms of PFS (15.0 vs. 11.1 months, p = 0.007) and DoR (18.0 vs. 8.4 months, p = 0.013), and was comparable to D+T+anti‐PD‐1. Addition of anti‐PD‐1 to BRAF inhibitor‐based TT was associated with lower incidence of brain metastases (p = 0.032). Addition of anti‐PD‐1 to BRAF inhibitor‐based TT appears to be a safe and effective treatment option, conferring a survival benefit and delaying the onset brain metastases in patients with BRAFV600‐mutant advanced melanoma.
Early‐life antibiotic exposure aggravates hepatic steatosis through enhanced endotoxemia and lipotoxic effects driven by gut Parabacteroides
Authors: Zhang Xi , Chan Darren Chak Lun , Zhu Jie , Sin Daniel Zhen Ye , Peng Ye , Wong Matthew Kwok Leong , Zhu Wenyi , Tsui Yee , Haqq Andrea M. , Ting Joseph Y. , Kozyrskyj Anita , Chan Francis Ka Leung , Ng Siew Chien , Tun Hein Min
Published: February 2025

Compelling evidence supports a link between early‐life gut microbiota and the metabolic outcomes in later life. Using an early‐life antibiotic exposure model in BALB/c mice, we investigated the life‐course impact of prenatal and/or postnatal antibiotic exposures on the gut microbiome of offspring and the development of metabolic dysfunction‐associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD). Compared to prenatal antibiotic exposure alone, postnatal antibiotic exposure more profoundly affected gut microbiota development and succession, which led to aggravated endotoxemia and metabolic dysfunctions. This was primarily resulted from the overblooming of gut Parabacteroides and hepatic accumulation of cytotoxic lysophosphatidyl cholines (LPCs), which acted in conjunction with LPS derived from Parabacteroides distasonis (LPS_PA) to induce cholesterol metabolic dysregulations, endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress and apoptosis. Integrated serum metabolomics, hepatic lipidomics and transcriptomics revealed enhanced glycerophospholipid hydrolysis and LPC production in association with the upregulation of PLA2G10, the gene controlling the expression of the group X secretory Phospholipase A2s (sPLA2‐X). Taken together, our results show microbial modulations on the systemic MASLD pathogenesis and hepatocellular lipotoxicity pathways following early‐life antibiotic exposure, hence help inform refined clinical practices to avoid any prolonged maternal antibiotic administration in early life and potential gut microbiota‐targeted intervention strategies.
A data‐driven approach for improved quantification of in vivo metabolic conversion rates of hyperpolarized [1‐13C]pyruvate
Authors: Kim Yaewon , Nickles Tanner M. , Lee Philip M. , Bok Robert A. , Gordon Jeremy W. , Larson Peder E. Z. , Vigneron Daniel B. , von Morze Cornelius , Ohliger Michael A.
Published: February 2025

Purpose

Accurate quantification of metabolism in hyperpolarized (HP) 13C MRI is essential for clinical applications. However, kinetic model parameters are often confounded by uncertainties in radiofrequency flip angles and other model parameters.

Methods

A data‐driven kinetic fitting approach for HP 13C‐pyruvate MRI was proposed that compensates for uncertainties in the B1+ field. We hypothesized that introducing a scaling factor to the flip angle to minimize fit residuals would allow more accurate determination of the pyruvate‐to‐lactate conversion rate (kPL). Numerical simulations were performed under different conditions (flip angle, kPL, and T1 relaxation), with further testing using HP 13C‐pyruvate MRI of rat liver and kidneys.

Results

Simulations showed that the proposed method reduced kPL error from 60% to 1% when the prescribed and actual flip angles differed by 60%. The method also showed robustness to T1 uncertainties, achieving median kPL errors within ±3% even when the assumed T1 was incorrect by up to a factor of 2. In rat studies, better‐quality fitting for lactate signals (a 1.4‐fold decrease in root mean square error [RMSE] for lactate fit) and tighter kPL distributions (an average of 3.1‐fold decrease in kPL standard deviation) were achieved using the proposed method compared with when no correction was applied.

Conclusion

The proposed data‐driven kinetic fitting approach provided a method to accurately quantify HP 13C‐pyruvate metabolism in the presence of B1+ inhomogeneity. This model may also be used to correct for other error sources, such as T1 relaxation and flow, and may prove to be clinically valuable in improving tumor staging or assessing treatment response.
Machine learning‐based multi‐pool Voigt fitting of CEST, rNOE, and MTC in Z‐spectra
Authors: Mohammed Ali Sajad , van Zijl Peter C. M. , Prasuhn Jannik , Wirestam Ronnie , Knutsson Linda , Yadav Nirbhay N.
Published: February 2025

Purpose

Four‐pool Voigt (FPV) machine learning (ML)–based fitting for Z‐spectra was developed to reduce fitting times for clinical feasibility in terms of on‐scanner analysis and to promote larger cohort studies. The approach was compared to four‐pool Lorentzian (FPL)‐ML–based modeling to empirically verify the advantage of Voigt models for Z‐spectra.

Methods

Voigt and Lorentzian models were fitted to human 3 T Z‐spectral data using least squares (LS) to generate training data for the corresponding ML versions. Gradient boosting decision trees were trained, resulting in one Voigt and one Lorentzian ML model. Modeling accuracy was tested, and the fitting times of the ML models and LS versions were evaluated. The goodness of fits of Voigt and Lorentzian ML models were compared.

Results

The training time for each ML model (Voigt and Lorentzian) was less than 1 min, and the modeling accuracy compared to the corresponding LS versions was excellent, as indicated by a nonsignificant difference between the parameters obtained by LS and corresponding ML versions. The average fitting time was 20 μs/spectrum for both ML models compared to 0.27 and 0.82 s/spectrum for LS with FPL and FPV, respectively. The goodness of fits of FPV‐ML and FPL‐ML differed significantly (p < 0.005), with FPV‐ML showing an improvement for all tested data.

Conclusion

Gradient boosting decision trees fitting of multi‐pool Z‐spectra significantly reduces fitting times compared to traditional LS approaches, allowing fast data processing while upholding fitting quality. Along with the short training times, this makes the method suitable for clinical settings and for large cohort research applications. The FPV‐ML approach provides a significant improvement of goodness of fit compared to FPL‐ML.
Basis function compression for field probe monitoring
Authors: Dubovan Paul I. , Varela‐Mattatall Gabriel , Michael Eric S. , Hennel Franciszek , Menon Ravi S. , Pruessmann Klaas P. , Kerr Adam B. , Baron Corey A.
Published: February 2025

Purpose

Field monitoring using field probes allows for accurate measurement of magnetic field perturbations, such as from eddy currents, during MRI scanning. However, errors may result when the spatial variation of the fields is not well‐described by the conventionally used spherical harmonics model that has the maximum order constrained by the number of probes. The objective of this work was to develop and validate a field monitoring approach that compresses higher order spherical harmonics into a smaller set of new basis functions that can be characterized using fewer probes.

Methods

Field monitoring of acquisitions was repeated with probes in different locations. High‐order field dynamics were computed from this “calibration” data assembled from provided scans, from which compression matrices could be devised using principal component analysis. Compression matrices were then used to fit field dynamics using “compressed” basis functions with data from 16 probes, which were then used in image reconstruction. Performance was evaluated by assessing the accuracy of computed field dynamics as well as in vivo image quality. Technique generalizability was also assessed by using various acquisition and diffusion encoding strategies in the calibration.

Results

Qualitative and quantitative improvements in accuracy were observed when using the proposed fitting method compared to the conventional approach. However, compression effectiveness was influenced by the probe quantity and arrangement, and the specific acquisition data included in the calibration.

Conclusion

The ability to tailor basis functions to more compactly describe the spatial variation of field perturbations enables improved characterization of fields with rapid spatial variations.
Patients' Experiences With Advance Care Planning and Decision‐Making: An Interview Study in Finnish Hospital Palliative Care Wards
Authors: Kuusisto Anne , Saranto Kaija , Lähteenmäki Katriina , Soikkeli‐Jalonen Anu , Haavisto Elina
Published: February 2025

Aim and Objective

This study described patients' experiences with advance care planning and decision‐making in Finnish hospital palliative care wards.

Design

A descriptive qualitative study with semi‐structured individual interviews.

Methods

The study group consisted of purposely selected patients in palliative care wards from two university hospital districts. A pretested interview guide was used. The interviews focused on three main themes with auxiliary questions. Data were gathered until data saturation was reached. The data were analysed using inductive content analysis.

Results

A total of 20 patients with cancer were interviewed. Patients' experiences with advance care planning in palliative care were grouped into three parent categories with subcategories: (1) Making plans for the end of life (need for psychosocial support in cancer disease and wish for goals of care discussion), (2) Symptom management planning (wish for pharmacological interventions for symptom management and wish for non‐pharmacological interventions for symptom management) and (3) Palliative care coordination (need for discharge planning and wish for compatibility between team members). Patients' experiences with care decision‐making in palliative care were grouped into two parent categories with subcategories: (1) healthcare professional as a care decision‐maker (medical care decision‐making, nursing care decision‐making and inter‐professional care decision‐making) and (2) shared decision‐making (need for patient involvement in shared decision‐making and need for family member involvement in shared decision‐making).

Conclusion

This study highlights the need for advance care planning and involvement in shared decision‐making in palliative care from patient perspectives.

Relevance for Clinical Practice

The results from this study show that nurses must be critically concerned about the early and intentional initiation of palliative care.

Reporting Method

The consolidated criteria for reporting qualitative studies checklist (COREQ) was used.

Patient or Public Contribution

The data consists of answers given by patients in interviews.
What Do AWWA Standards Mean to You?
Authors: Reilley Betsy
Published: February 2025

You’re probably familiar with AWWA standards. Perhaps you’ve encountered them when purchasing valves, disinfecting a pipeline, or designing a pump station. There's a standard for all of these applications. In fact, there are more than 190 standards that provide minimum requirements for chemicals, meters, tanks, monitoring systems, installation practices, and more.
Use Pilot Studies to Determine Effective Filtration Media
Authors: Sterling Andy
Published: February 2025

With the likelihood of regulated contaminants expanding in the future, water utilities need a consistently reliable way to collect data, select the best filtration media, and maintain effective treatment. A well‐run pilot study will ensure sound, data‐driven decisions.
Advanced Technologies Enhance Algae Control and Water Quality
Authors: Stitt Samantha
Published: February 2025

A Pennsylvania water treatment plant uses several techniques to improve the speed and precision of water quality analysis to meet public health and regulatory compliance goals.
Beware of Biohazards
Authors:   Awwa Staff
Published: February 2025

What are biohazards? Biohazards are materials or human waste that cause infections or disease. Bloodborne pathogens, human waste, and drug paraphernalia are also considered biohazards and can pose a significant health threat.
Viscoelastic mechanics of a bistable composite cylindrical structure
Authors: Wang Bing , Ye Junjie , Zhang Shunnan , Guan Chenglong , Zhong Jianfeng , Zhong Shuncong
Published: February 2025

Bistable composite cylindrical structures have been developed over the last four decades, and show great potential for shape morphing applications, especially in aerospace. Their bistabilities are known to be induced by unsymmetric composite layups, while the governing factors on shape geometries and viscoelastic mechanics remain an enigma. Here, we investigated the intricate relationship between structural geometry and stable mechanics of a bistable unsymmetric composite cylindrical structure. A polylactic acid (PLA)‐based carbon composite laminate was prepared through 3D printing, which released design freedom on structural fiber volume fraction that could be controlled by modulating hatch spacing between the composite yarns. This strategic adjustment allowed the regulation of grid density, hence the in‐plane stress level, which dominates the bistable geometries. The cylindrical composite samples were produced with hatch spacing changed from 1.25 to 5 mm, corresponding to a fiber volume fraction ranged from 24.2% to 6.6%, where the structural curvature was also changed by up to 50% difference and gradually became viscoelastic dependent. It is found that the internal stress difference in thickness direction dominates the structural bistability, and there is a threshold value on the stress difference magnitude to essentially maintain the bistable configurations. These findings are expected to facilitate reversed structural design and manufacturing of the bistable cylindrical shells with tailorable stability, and promote their viscoelastic‐based large shape morphing fatigue life predictions.

Highlights

Bistable composite cylindrical shells were produced with various grid density.

A theoretical model was established to predict the time‐dependent bistability.

Stress difference in thickness direction dominates the structural curvature.

Stress contour reveals the viscoelastic‐dependent bistable mechanics.
Solvated Electrons and Hydroxyl Radicals at Plasma‐Liquid Interface
Authors: Lee Seungjun , Kang Hyung‐Gu , Kim Minkwan , Yun Gunsu
Published: February 2025

Hydroxyl radicals (·OH) are potent oxidizers, but their high reactivity confines them to a thin layer at the plasma‐liquid interface, complicating the understanding of their generation and transport. This study investigates the generation and distribution of ·OH and solvated electrons (eaq) at the plasma‐electrolyte interface. For the electrolyte anode, ·OH generation is diffusion‐driven, and in the absence of ·OH scavengers, ·OH predominantly reacts with eaq at the interface. Ion bombardment in the electrolyte cathode significantly enhances ·OH generation, leading to hydrogen peroxide formation. These findings offer strategies to optimize reactive species.
Effects on Physicochemical and Microbiological Properties of Coconut Water Packaged in Silver‐Based Materials
Authors: Malafatti João Otávio Donizette , da Costa Brito Sabrina , Pereira Vinicius Alex Cano , Calisto Ítalo , Netto Saad Barbar , Formigoni Carlos Eduardo , Innocentini Murilo Daniel de Mello , Mitsuyuki Milene Corso , Sivieri Kátia , Ferreira Marcos David
Published: February 2025

Coconut water is a fresh and popular drink that is attractive to consumers worldwide. Packaging development is essential to improve product quality, protect against microorganism contamination and preserve their physical‐chemistry properties. Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) are excellent actives applied in studies of food packaging, exhibiting great antimicrobial activity and reinforcement properties in polymeric matrices. The current work goals are to evaluate AgNPs supported on carriers, silica (SiO2) and hydroxyapatite (Hap) in the linear low‐density polyethylene (LLDPE) polymer obtained nanocomposite materials (LLDPE/AgNPs) to coconut water packaging. Thus, the present assay ascertained if adding these active agents in a commercial material (LLDPE) may improve coconut water's physicochemical and microbiological characteristics. The processing obtained the packaging composites at two concentrations (0.4% and 0.6%) by extrusion methodology. The pasteurized coconut water was packaged and monitored during 35 days of storage at temperatures above the recommended (7°C). The physicochemical analyses of coconut water verified the maintenance of pH, titratable acidity, soluble solids content, colour, turbidity, phenolic compounds, antioxidant activities, reducing and nonreducing sugars and minerals. Microbiological analyses were performed to detect the growth of psychrotrophic, moulds and yeasts, enterobacteria and Salmonella spp. The results showed that the AgNPs supported in both particles did not affect coconut water's physical and chemical characteristics compared to the LLDPE control. Concerning microbial growth, adding particles reduced the product's microbial load. Thus, the LLDPE/AgNPs packages obtained in this work demonstrated a potential application as commercial material to coconut water that can preserve the intrinsic physicochemical and improve the microbiological quality.
Part A: Implementing an Analyte Panel and Sampling Protocol for Quality Control in Mass Spectrometry Imaging
Authors: Mills Quinn , Kibbe Russell R. , Sohn Alexandria L. , Percy Andrew J. , Backiel Krista , Muddiman David C.
Published: February 2025

Rationale

While quality control (QC) and system suitability testing (SST) methods are commonly employed in mass spectrometry, the field of mass spectrometry imaging (MSI) currently lacks any universally accepted QC/SST protocols. These methods can prevent the loss of precious samples due to suboptimal instrument conditions and/or data quality, but they are more challenging to implement on MSI platforms. Herein, a panel of analytes is conveniently analyzed in a setup that reflects a typical MSI imaging experiment, and guidance is provided for downstream QC/SST evaluation.

Methods

The analyte panel will be commercially available and consists of three pairs of unlabeled (NAT) analytes and their stable isotope–labeled (SIL) analogues; a deviation from the standard procedure is also included, which incorporates a polymer to expand m/z coverage. The NAT three‐plex (or four‐plex with the added polymer) is analyzed as a droplet on a slide, and the SIL three‐plex is doped into the electrospray solvent, isolating the NAT and SIL compounds to different source components. Datasets are collected on clean and compromised instruments to inform QC/SST software and later evaluate instrument conditions or isolated metrics of data quality.

Results

A procedure was created for QC/SST analysis on MSI platforms, which can be optionally paired with the freely available software Supervised Learning for Instrument Classification and Evaluation for Mass Spectrometry Imaging (SLICE‐MSI) to classify the condition of the instrument. The SIL data may be monitored separately during imaging experiments for continuous evaluation of electrospray stability. The protocol highlights areas that may be adapted for other ionization sources for widespread use.

Conclusions

The protocol described herein uses a panel of NAT and SIL compounds to offer an objective and accurate determination of QC/SST on MSI platforms.
Support‐Free CdS Films from Electrospun PVP/CdCl2 Composite Fibers: (1) Exposure to Na2S Solution Surface and (2) Gas–Solid Reaction with H2S Gas Followed by Exposure to Water Surface
Authors: García‐Valenzuela Jorge A. , Baez‐Gaxiola Martha R. , Vargas‐Durazo Judas , Quiroz‐Castillo Jesús M. , Castillo‐Ortega María M. , Armenta‐Villegas Lorena , Gutiérrez‐Heredia Gerardo , Medrano Felipe , Corona‐Martínez David O. , Cota‐Leal Marcos
Published: February 2025

This work explores new pathways to obtain CdS semiconductor films capable of covering almost any kind of solid substrate. Water‐soluble polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) was used to prepare fibers of PVP/CdCl2 and PVP/CdS composite materials, which are later dissolved to obtain support‐free CdS films on an aqueous surface, which can be collected thereafter with the desired substrate. The PVP/CdCl2 fibers were produced by electrospinning, and the subsequent treatments for CdS formation followed two distinct routs: (1) a direct reaction between the electrospun PVP/CdCl2 and a 0.10 M Na2S solution to produce a CdS film on the solution surface, and (2) a gas–solid reaction between PVP/CdCl2 and H2S gas to form PVP/CdS, which is later exposed to distilled water to release the CdS from the PVP matrix. The CdS films produced from PVP/CdCl2 and PVP/CdS treatments were characterized chemically, morphologically, structurally, and optically. X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy results demonstrated the successful synthesis of CdS material by means of the two described pathways. According to energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy and X‐ray diffraction, in both cases the CdS was sulfur deficient and ordered in the hexagonal structure. Energy bandgap values of the CdS films obtained from PVP/CdCl2 and PVP/CdS were 2.38 and 2.39 eV, respectively.
A Self‐Supported Electrode for the Alkaline HER Based on Electrodeposition of Platinum on Metal Fiber Felt
Authors: Ren Biying , Zhang Huan , Jia Xiangkun , Gao JianPing , Xie Jun , Wang Xikui
Published: February 2025

Electrocatalytic hydrogen evolution is an important topic in the preparation of low‐carbon green hydrogen energy sources. This paper reports an efficient electrocatalytic electrode using platinum on a stainless steel fiber felt (SSF) substrate by the electrodeposition method. The surface of SSF is loaded with electrodeposited Pt nanoparticles, which enhance the electrochemical properties of SSF. The overpotential η10 of the synthesized electrode for hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) in 1 M KOH is just 21 mV, indicating that it has excellent electrocatalytic performance. Long‐time durability tests showed good stability of the synthesized electrode. All these excellent properties indicate that the prepared self‐supported electrodes are promising for a new direction in industrial water electrolysis.
Convenient Preparation of 3,6‐Anhydro Sugars via Intramolecular Cyclization of 6‑O‑Tosyl Pyranosides Promoted by a Catalytic Amount of TBAF
Authors: Chen Zhi‐Fei , Xi Gao‐Lei , Liu Qiang , Cai Li‐Li , Jia Meng‐Zhao , Wang Qing‐Fu , Yang Kai
Published: February 2025

3,6‐Anhydro sugars are one of most common anhydro sugars in bioactive compounds and natural products. Herein, a high‐yielding, mild, and environmentally friendly synthetic approach for 3,6‐anhydro sugars was established via the intramolecular cyclization of 6‐O‐tosyl pyranosides, promoted by a catalytic amount of tetrabutylammonium fluoride (TBAF) and Na2CO3 as a cocatalyst. The advantages include avoidance of protection at the 2,4‐positions, free of strong bases, minimization of excessive TBAF usage, and extensive substrate applicability, contributing to its efficiency and versatility especially for large‐scale preparations.
Single Cell Inference of Cancer Drug Response Using Pathway‐Based Transformer Network
Authors: Yao Yinghao , Xu Yuandong , Zhang Yaru , Gui Yuanyuan , Bai Qingshi , Zhu Zhengbiao , Peng Hui , Zhou Yijun , Chen Zhen Ji , Sun Jie , Su Jianzhong
Published: February 2025

Accurate prediction of cancer drug responses is crucial for personalized therapy. Single‐cell RNA sequencing (scRNA‐seq) captures cellular heterogeneity and rare resistant populations, offering valuable insights into treatment responses. However, the distinct distributions of bulk RNA‐seq and scRNA‐seq data hinder the transfer of drug response knowledge from large‐scale cell line datasets. To address this, single‐cell Pathway Drug Sensitivity (scPDS) model is developed, a Transformer‐based deep learning method that predicts drug sensitivities from scRNA‐seq data through pathway activation transformation. By integrating bulk RNA‐seq data from extensive cell line datasets, scPDS improves accuracy and computational efficiency in scRNA‐seq analysis. It is demonstrated that scPDS outperforms state‐of‐the‐art methods in both time and memory consumption. When applied to breast cancer cells treated with bortezomib, scPDS showed that resistance increases initially but diminishes with prolonged exposure. The method also identifies drug‐sensitive populations in bortezomib‐resistant cells and predicts the efficacy of combination therapies, including docetaxel, gemcitabine, and irinotecan. Furthermore, scPDS successfully distinguishes between sensitive and resistant patients, predicting significantly different survival outcomes. In summary, scPDS offers a robust tool for predicting cellular responses, providing insights to optimize cancer treatment strategies.
Epitranscriptome‐Mediated Regulation of Neuronal Translation
Authors: Qadri Syed Wasifa , Shah Nisa Manzoor , Muddashetty Ravi S.
Published: February 2025

Epitranscriptomic modification of RNA is an important layer of regulation for gene expression. RNA modifications come in many flavors and generate a complex tapestry of a regulatory network. Here, we focus on two major RNA modifications, one on rRNA (2′O Methylation) and another on mRNA (N6‐Methyladenosine [m6A]) and their impact on translation. The 2′O methyl group addition on the ribose sugar of rRNA plays a critical role in RNA folding, ribosome assembly, and its interaction with many RNA binding proteins. Differential methylation of these sites contributes to ribosome heterogeneity and generates potential “specialized ribosomes.” Specialized ribosomes are proposed to play a variety of important roles in maintaining pluripotency, lineage specification, and compartmentalized and activity‐mediated translation in neurons. The m6A modification, on the other hand, determines the stability, transport, and translation of subclasses of mRNA. The dynamic nature of m6A owing to the localization and activity of its writers, readers, and erasers makes it a powerful tool for spatiotemporal regulation of translation. While substantial information has accumulated on the nature and abundance of these modifications, their functional consequences are still understudied. In this article, we review the literature constructing the body of our understanding of these two modifications and their outcome on the regulation of translation in general and their impact on the nervous system in particular. We also explore the possibility of how these modifications may collaborate in modulating translation and provoke the thought to integrate the functions of multiple epitranscriptome modifications.
CRISPR for Introductory-Level Undergraduate Courses
Authors: Wolyniak Michael J.
Published: February 2025

What You Will Learn in This Chapter

How to discern what topics in CRISPR should be covered in the introductory undergraduate classroom.

Strategies for discussing CRISPR in the classroom and working with CRISPR in the laboratory.

Strategies for discussing the bioethical ramifications of CRISPR technology.
A 3-Scale Haar Wavelet Collocation Method for Numerical Solution of the Nonlinear Gardner Equation
Authors: Bulut Fatih , Oruc Omer , Esen Alaattin
Published: February 2025

In this paper, a 3-scale Haar wavelet collocation method was applied to the nonlinear Gardner equation which can be used to describe the large-amplitude inner waves in the ocean. We start the solution process with the time discretization of the Gardner equation, with the help of finite difference method. Then, we have used 3-scale Haar wavelets for the space discretization. These steps gave us a system of algebraic equations, by solving these equations we were able to get wavelet coefficients and used them to construct the numerical solution of the Gardner equation. We applied the proposed method to five different problems to test the accuracy and compared the obtained results with other studies in the literature. The results and comparisons are given in tables and solutions are depicted graphically. The results show that the method proposed in this manuscript is highly accurate even with a low number of collocation points.
Unconditional deep-water limit of the intermediate long wave equation in low-regularity
Authors: Forlano Justin , Li Guopeng , Zhao Tengfei
Published: February 2025

In this paper, we establish the unconditional deep-water limit of the intermediate long wave equation (ILW) to the Benjamin-Ono equation (BO) in low-regularity Sobolev spaces on both the real line and the circle. Our main tool is new unconditional uniqueness results for ILW in

$$H^s$$

H
s

when

$$s_0<s\le \frac{1}{4}$$

s
0

<
s
≤

1
4

on the line and

$$s_0<s< \frac{1}{2}$$

s
0

<
s
<

1
2

on the circle, where

$$s_0 = 3-\sqrt{33/4}\approx 0.1277$$

s
0

=
3
-

33
/
4

≈
0.1277

. Here, we adapt the strategy of Moşincat-Pilod (Pure Appl Anal 5:285–322, 2023) for BO to the setting of ILW by viewing ILW as a perturbation of BO and making use of the smoothing property of the perturbation term.
The role of essential oils as eco-friendly strategy to control biofilm collected in the Colosseum (Rome, Italy)
Authors: Ranaldi Roberta , Rugnini Lorenza , Migliore Giada , Tasso Flavia , Gabriele Francesco , Spreti Nicoletta , Scuderi Francesco , Braglia Roberto , Di Martino Patrick , Pujia Angelica , Canini Antonella
Published: February 2025

The control of biodeteriogenic microorganisms is essential for the management of heritage sites. Many conventional biocides are no longer available because they have lost their efficacy or have been withdrawn from the market due to their danger to humans and the environment. Therefore, new effective and sustainable biocides are needed, such as plant extracts that could be a good alternative. In this study, essential oils (EOs) of Ocimum basilicum L., Cinnamomum verum Presl, Lavandula angustifolia Mill., Origanum vulgare L., Thymus vulgaris L. and Melaleuca alternifolia Maiden & Betche were tested as green biocides against microorganisms collected from biofilms in the hypogeum of the Colosseum (Rome, Italy). Biocidal screening was first carried out on phototrophic microorganisms grown on BG11 agar culture medium. The efficacy was assessed by measuring photosynthetic activity with a mini-PAM portable fluorometer, and by determining morphological changes or the absence of autofluorescence using light microscopy and confocal laser scanning microscopy. The most effective EOs against phototrophs were further tested to inhibit the growth of heterotrophic fungi and bacteria in order to identify those with a broad-spectrum action. The EOs of cinnamon, oregano and thyme at 5% concentration (v/v) were the most effective against the microorganisms isolated from the biofilms in the Colosseum. These EOs represent a green alternative to traditional chemical biocides due to their activity against a wide range of microorganisms and their complex composition which suggests the potential to reduce the risk of microbial resistance.

Key points

Biofilms collected from the Colosseum hypogeum were characterized

EOs tested as biocides against phototrophs and heterotrophs in Colosseum biofilms.

Cinnamon, oregano, and thyme EOs show broad-spectrum action at 5% concentration.

Graphical Abstract