bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The physicochemical characteristics and functional properties of steam explosion modified wheat bran in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Deng Wanqing , Deng Yun , Zhang Zhenyu , Zhu Jiangxiong , Wang Danfeng , Zhong Yu
Published: February 2025

Wheat bran is the processing byproduct of wheat, which is thought to have great potential applications. To make a full utilization of the resource, this study investigated the effects of steam explosion (SE) modification, with intensity at 1.0 MPa at 20, 60, 100, 140, 180, and 220 s, respectively, on wheat bran soluble dietary fiber (SDF) content, physical‐chemical quality, antioxidant capacity, and intestinal microbial spectrum. The impact of long‐term intake of WB100 (wheat bran modified under SE conditions of 1.0 MPa and 100 s) on weight control in obese mice was also studied. The results showed that WB100 showed a 3.36‐fold increase in SDF content, a 61.78% and 109.77% increase in the DPPH and ABTS free radical scavenging rate, and maintained good hydration properties compared to the untreated group. Besides, the 5‐HMF content of WB100 was 16.93 mg/kg, which was within the allowable range and ensured the safety of wheat bran. In addition, WB100 significantly increased and specifically enriched the abundance of Agathobacter, Fusicatenibacter, and Faecalibacterium after intestinal microbial fermentation. Long‐term intake of WB100 in obese mice could play a role in weight control by reducing blood lipid levels and fasting blood glucose values, stimulating appetite suppression‐related hormones, reducing fat accumulation, and protecting liver health. This study highlighted the importance of SE technology for the enhancement of wheat bran added value and industrial upgrading.

Practical Application

This study highlighted the importance of SE technology for the enhancement of wheat bran added value and industrial upgrading. And it can be applied in the agricultural field or the development of a new food
.
External validation of a nomogram for unilateral pelvic lymph node dissection in prostate cancer
Authors: Ortner Gernot , Falkenbach Fabian , Kachanov Mykyta , Inderhees Tim , Maurer Tobias , Knipper Sophie , Graefen Markus , Budäus Lars
Published: February 2025

Objectives

To explore the rationale of unilateral extended pelvic lymph node dissection (ePLND) during radical prostatectomy (RP) by external validation of a nomogram for unilateral ePLND (unilat‐NG) and comparison to the Briganti 2019 nomogram.

Patients and methods

Patients with magnetic resonance imaging‐fusion biopsy and consecutive RP with bilateral ePLND were identified within an institutional database. The primary endpoint was the detection rate of lymph node invasion (LNI) contralateral to the prostatic lobe with adverse cancer characteristics. The performance of the unilat‐NG and the Briganti 2019 nomogram to detect contralateral LNI was assessed using descriptive analysis, the receiver operating characteristic curve–derived area under the curve (AUC), and multivariable logistic regression analyses.

Results

Of the overall 406 consecutive patients, 68/406 (16.7%) presented with pathological (p)N1 disease at RP. The AUC for the unilat‐NG with a 1%, 2% and 2.5% cut‐off was 0.58 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.53–0.63), 0.67 (95% CI 0.59–0.75), and 0.69 (95% CI 0.60–0. 77), respectively; compared to an AUC of 0.72 (95% CI 0.66–0.78) for the Briganti 2019 nomogram with a 7% cut‐off. Applying the unilat‐NG with a 2.5% cut‐off, contralateral ePLND could be omitted in 303/406 (74.6%) patients, misclassifying 10/406 (2.5%) patients with pN0 disease.

Conclusion

The Briganti 2019 nomogram outperformed the novel unilat‐NG in contralateral LNI prediction. Yet, a significant proportion of patients undergoing unilateral ePLND would be falsely classified with pN0 disease using any of the nomograms. Therefore, bilateral ePLND should remain the standard of care if PLND is indicated.
Impact of Immunosuppressive Drug Concentrations on Microvascular Inflammation, Negative Donor‐Specific Antibodies, and C4d‐Negative Status in Kidney Transplant Recipients
Authors: Kakuta Yoichi , Maegawa‐Higa Yoko , Matsumura Soichi , Fukae Shota , Tanaka Ryo , Yonishi Hiroaki , Nakazawa Shigeaki , Namba‐Hamano Tomoko , Isaka Yoshitaka , Nonomura Norio
Published: February 2025

Introduction

This study investigated the impact of immunosuppressive drug concentrations on microvascular inflammation (MVI) in kidney transplant recipients with negative donor‐specific antibodies (DSA) against human leukocyte antigen (HLA) and negative C4d deposition in peritubular capillaries.

Methods

We analyzed data from 268 living kidney transplant recipients at the Department of Urology, University of Osaka, Japan. Patients received immunosuppressive therapy comprising extended‐release tacrolimus, mycophenolate mofetil (MMF), and/or everolimus, with or without steroids. Graft biopsies were routinely performed at 3, 12, 36 and 60 months post‐surgery.

Results

No significant differences were observed between the MVI+DSA‐C4d‐ and MVI‐DSAC4d groups regarding graft survival rates (95.5% vs. 96.6%, p = 0.772) or patient survival rates (95.7% vs. 95.9%, p = 0.735). Lower tacrolimus and everolimus concentrations were significantly associated with an increased risk of MVI+DSA‐C4d‐ (tacrolimus: OR, 0.169; 95% CI, 0.055–0.515; p = 0.002; everolimus: OR, 0.386; 95% CI, 0.171–0.874; p = 0.022). In contrast, MPA concentration was not significantly associated with MVI+DSA‐C4d‐ (OR, 0.994; 95% CI, 0.554–1.780; p = 0.984). Steroid discontinuation did not significantly impact the risk of MVI+DSA‐C4d‐ (OR, 1.980; 95% CI, 0.318–12.000; p = 0.470).

Conclusion

Lower trough levels of tacrolimus and everolimus correlated with a higher incidence of antibody‐independent MVI, supporting the need for tailored immunosuppressive regimens in kidney transplantation.
Supply shortages and inflation in Europe
Authors: Mućk Jakub , Postek Łukasz
Published: February 2025

This paper contributes to the literature by quantifying the effects of supply shortages on inflation in 19 European economies. In contrast to many other papers, it focuses on factual country‐specific shortages in materials and equipment reported by enterprises in the business surveys conducted by the European Commission rather than supply chain tensions that are measured only globally or for some major economies. We apply the local projections method in a panel framework, and estimate the responses of nine measures of consumer and producer inflation to supply shortages. We find that supply shortages are inflationary for all considered measures of inflation, and a larger effect can be observed for the inflation of prices of goods rather than services. The peak of impulse responses can be observed 4–6 quarters after a shock, while the effect usually dies out after 8–12 quarters. After a year, a one‐standard‐deviation shock in supply shortages is followed by annual inflation being higher by 0.7–3.4 percentage points, depending on the inflation measure. Interestingly, the inflationary effects of supply shortages seem to be related mainly to periods of intense global supply tensions.
Exercise benefits and barriers in an extension‐delivered diabetes prevention program
Authors: Castillo‐Hernández Isaura M. , Wilson Hannah K. , Williams Ewan R. , Berg Alison C. , Evans Ellen M.
Published: February 2025

Limited evidence of determinants of exercise (EX)/physical activity (PA) behavior change exists in the context of Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) implementation. Participants (n = 50, 57.3 ± 12.9 yo, BMI = 35.1 ± 6.2) were assessed for weight status, self‐reported EX/PA behavior, and perceived benefits and barriers at baseline and completion of an Extension‐delivered DPP. EX/PA behavior improved in response to the intervention, albeit statistically insignificant (p > 0.05). Perceived benefits of EX/PA were (1) enhanced physical performance and (2) reduction in risk of disease, whereas the exertion for EX/PA behaviors was the greatest barrier (all p < 0.05).
Influence of B4C content and particle size on the mechanical properties of Al2O3‐B4C composites
Authors: Mohammed Nazeer , Naik Ajit Kumar , Prasad D. K. V. D , Pillari Lava Kumar , Bichler Lukas , Laha Tapas , Roy Siddhartha
Published: February 2025

Alumina (Al2O3) ceramics and their composites are widely used in the cutting tool industries due to their superior mechanical properties. This study presents a comprehensive investigation of the influence of B4C content and particle size on the sinterability, microstructure, and mechanical properties of Al2O3‐B4C composites fabricated using Spark Plasma Sintering (SPS). The relative density of the composites increased and residual porosity decreased as the B4C particle size in the powder blends decreased. The addition of B4C particles improved the mechanical properties of monolithic Al2O3 and the highest property enhancements were obtained for the composite with 30 vol% of the finest B4C particles. For this composition, with respect to monolithic Al2O3, the density was reduced by 11% and hardness, Young's modulus, indentation fracture toughness, and flexural strength increased by 24%, 8%, 51%, and 88%, respectively. The effect of the B4C particle size on the Young's modulus in relation to existing micromechanical models reveals that the composites with a fine B4C particles fit the Reuss model.
Enhanced thermal shock resistance in magnesia refractories through in situ formation of CaO·2La2O3·3SiO2
Authors: Cui Yan , Qu Dianli , Luo Xudong , Li Guohua , Tian Lin , Zheng Yu
Published: February 2025

Magnesia refractories have been widely utilized in industries such as steel, nonferrous metallurgy, and cement. However, their application has been limited due to their inadequate thermal shock resistance. This study examines the effect of club‐shaped CaO·2La2O3·3SiO2 crystals formed in situ on the thermal shock resistance of magnesia refractories. The results demonstrate that CaO·2La2O3·3SiO2 grains, which possess a high melting point, replace monticellite CaO·MgO·SiO2 (CMS) grains with a low melting point in magnesia refractories. The crystal growth of CaO·2La2O3·3SiO2 follows a two‐dimensional nucleation growth mechanism, characterized by stepped growth stripes. Furthermore, the microstructure of magnesia refractories is modified through the formation of club‐shaped CaO·2La2O3·3SiO2 grains located at the grain boundaries, resulting in enhanced thermal shock resistance. The in situ formation of CaO·2La2O3·3SiO2 actively contributes to the toughening of magnesia refractories by increasing their resistance to crack propagation. Overall, this research highlights the beneficial role of in situ formed CaO·2La2O3·3SiO2 crystals in improving the thermal shock resistance of magnesia refractories.
Clinical characteristics and economic impact of acute hospitalisations due to bronchiectasis exacerbations among adult Indigenous Australians in the Top End Northern Territory
Authors: Berhane Thomas , Bayfield Anna‐Louise , Howarth Timothy , James Karlie , Muthumala Aruna , Mo Lin , Willson Kaspar , Heraganahally Subash S.
Published: February 2025

This cross‐sectional study assessed the clinical and economic costs (Inpatient Activity Database) associated with hospitalisations due to bronchiectasis exacerbations among adult indigenous patients in the Top End, Northern Territory. Twenty case episodes from 15 indigenous patients with a mean age of 51.8 ± 12.7 years were recorded in a 3‐month study window. The estimated cost was AUD 400 579.9, with cost per patient AUD 26 705 over 3 months and average cost per admission AUD 20 029. Extrapolating cost data across a 10‐year period gave a conservative estimate of AUD 28 million.
An in vitro assessment of the accuracy of guided tilted and axial implant placement in the edentulous mandible
Authors: Freeman Brett C. , Alqallaf Hawra , Yang Chao‐Chieh , Lin Wei‐Shao , Dutra Vinicius , Hamada Yusuke
Published: February 2025

Purpose

To assess the precision of implant placement when comparing tilted orientations to axial orientations, utilizing a fully guided surgical protocol in an edentulous mandibular model.

Materials and Methods

Fourteen rubber‐coated mandibular models were scanned with fiducial markers using a commercial benchtop surface scanner, followed by cone beam computed tomography for implant planning through a dual‐scan protocol. The models were randomly divided into control and experimental groups. In the control group, each model was planned for four axially oriented implants. Conversely, the experimental models were planned for two axially oriented implants near the lateral incisors and two posteriorly tilted implants at a 30‐degree angle. A mucosal‐supported, pin‐retained surgical guide was designed and 3D‐printed, facilitating the fully guided implant placement. All implants received scan bodies and were rescanned for evaluation of the trueness between the planned and the actual implant location using the implant planning software. Mixed model ANOVA was used to detect differences between groups with regards to angular deviation, offset at base, and offset at tip.

Results

A total of 56 implants were placed across all models. Fourteen posterior implants in each group served as control and experimental conditions, while the remaining 28 anterior implants acted as secondary control. No significant differences were observed between the experimental and control groups in terms of angular deviation (p = 0.7001), offset at base (p = 0.6409), or offset at tip (p = 0.6931). Analysis comparing anterior implant deviations between groups and anterior to posterior implant deviations within the control arches also was not significant. However, secondary analysis revealed a significant difference between anterior and posterior implants within the experimental group for offset at base (p = 0.0087) and offset at tip (p = 0.0288).

Conclusions

Despite the limitations inherent to a benchtop study, the findings suggest that there are no statistically significant 3D deviations at the base or apex, nor in angular deviations, when comparing tilted and axial implant placements using a digital workflow and fully guided protocols in an edentulous model.
Infections caused by extended‐spectrum beta‐lactamase‐producing Enterobacterales in hospitalized neonatal foals: Can colonization predict infection?
Authors: Shnaiderman‐Torban Anat , Meltzer Lilac , Zilberman‐Daniels Tal , Navon‐Venezia Shiri , Cohen Adar , Sutton Gila Abells , Blum Shlomo E. , Amit Sharon , Steinman Amir
Published: February 2025

Background

Infections with extended‐spectrum beta‐lactamase‐producing Enterobacterales (ESBL‐PE) contribute to morbidity and mortality in human neonates. In foals, data are scarce.

Objectives

Determine the association between ESBL‐PE gastrointestinal colonization on hospital admission and infections in hospitalized neonates.

Animals

Sixty‐seven foals.

Methods

Prospective study of foals admitted to a veterinary hospital. Foals were screened for ESBL‐PE colonization and for infections. Risk factors and clinical outcomes were analyzed.

Results

Seventy‐six percent of foals suffered from at least 1 bacterial infection (n = 51/67). Sixty‐three non‐ESBL bacterial species and 19 ESBL‐PE species were isolated. Twenty foals (29.85%) had at least 1 hospital‐acquired infection (HAI) and 30 foals (44.8%) suffered from multidrug resistant infections. The prevalence rates of ESBL‐PE gastrointestinal colonization on admission and clinical ESBL HAIs were 47.8% (n = 32/67, 41 isolates) and 19.40% (n = 13/67, 19 isolates), respectively. On multivariable analysis, ESBL‐PE HAIs were associated with colonization on admission (P = .03, odds ratio [OR] = 4.60). In an outcome analysis, ESBL‐PE infection and HAIs were associated with surgery (ESBL‐PE infection: P = .04, OR = 4.70; HAI: P = .004, OR = 6.4) and HAI also was associated with increased duration of hospitalization (P < .001, OR = 9.13). The major colonizing and infecting bacterial species were Escherichia coli and Klebsiella spp. Concordant ESBL‐PE species were recovered from rectal screening and clinical samples in 7.46% (n = 5/67) of foals.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

On‐admission ESBL‐PE rectal colonization was associated with ESBL‐PE HAI in neonatal foals. The ESBL‐PE infections were associated with surgery during hospitalization. These findings emphasize the importance of optimal infection control and treatment of clinical infections in equine neonatal intensive care units.
Peace‐making Through the Blood of Christ: Insights from Nicholas Cabasilas and the Orthodox Tradition
Authors: Torrance Alexis
Published: February 2025

This article treats Nicholas Cabasilas as an emblematic theologian of peace from the Orthodox tradition whose profound reflections on peace speak directly to our contemporary moment of turmoil. Writing amidst the untold upheavals of fourteenth‐century Byzantium, Cabasilas distills much of his inherited exegetical, ascetic, and liturgical tradition and marshals it to the cause of peace. The theology of peace he espouses neither reduces peace to the outward absence of violent conflict, nor spiritualizes it to the point of irrelevance for the pursuit of worldly peace. Taking his cue in particular from the opening lines of the Byzantine Divine Liturgy, he meditates with theological sophistication on the multiple levels of peace for which each must strive, and ultimately argues powerfully for the primacy of the blood of the Lamb as the true harbinger of peace, as well as the implications of this for Christian peace‐making. His vision is one that summarizes the best of the Orthodox tradition, and which ought to be harnessed now more than ever, at a time when confusion over the Orthodox understanding of peace has reached a peak.
Increasing Prevalence of Syphilis: Oral Manifestations, Diagnosis and Management
Authors: Currie C. C. , Chambers A. , Endersby S. , Green R. , Price D. A. , Robinson N. , Spoor E. , Wilson A. , Robinson M.
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Cases of syphilis are increasing, with 9513 cases diagnosed in England in 2023, the highest annual number since 1948. Oral healthcare professionals should therefore be aware of how oral syphilis presents, the differential diagnosis and the appropriate care pathway and management.

Case Series

We present 14 contemporary cases of oral syphilis to highlight the clinical features, outline the diagnostic pathway and document the management of the patients. We present the first patient in the literature to receive a diagnosis of neurosyphilis following an initial presentation with an oral lesion, emphasising the importance of early diagnosis and treatment of this increasingly prevalent infection.
VvprePIP, the Precursor of a PAMP‐Induced Secreted Peptide, Stimulates Defence Responses and Improves Resistance to Plasmopora viticola in Grapevine
Authors: Huang Huimin , Liu Jiaqi , Wu Wei , Lu Jiang
Published: February 2025

PRRs (Pattern‐Recognition Receptors) distributed on plant cell membranes recognize not only PAMPs (Pathogen‐Associated Molecular Patterns) released from the pathogens but also ligand peptides secreted from the plants, followed by eliciting defence responses. Here, we demonstrate that transcription of VvprePIP from grape (Vitis vinifera) encoding the precursor of a PIP (PAMP‐Induced secreted Peptide) peptide is activated by Plasmopara viticola infection. Overexpression of VvprePIP increases the expression of defence‐related genes and ROS (Reactive Oxygen Species) production, enhancing resistance to P. viticola in V. vinifera. A WRKY transcription factor VvWRKY8 interacts with VvprePIP promoter, upregulating its transcription directly. The immune reactions resulting from ectopic expression of VvprePIP are impaired in NbBAK1‐silencing tobacco, implying BAK1 is necessary for the recognition between mature peptide VvPIP and its receptor. The conserved region at the C terminus of VvprePIP carries three typical SGPS‐GH motifs, all of which contribute to provoke immune responses in plant. As synthetic VvPIP with a hydroxylated modification at the forth proline can mimic the functions of overexpression of the precursor, while synthetic unmodified VvPIP cannot, we reported that hydroxyproline is required for VvPIPs to serve as an active signal molecular. In conclusion, our studies reveal that VvprePIP plays a role in enhancing plant resistance to pathogens.
Increasing Extraversion via Intervention: Lay Insights, Person‐Activity Fit, and Implications for Well‐Being and Persistence
Authors: Martinez Ramona L. , Regan Annie , Gollwitzer Peter M. , Oettingen Gabriele , Lyubomirsky Sonja
Published: February 2025

Research suggests that acting more extraverted (outgoing, assertive, and/or energetic) boosts subjective well‐being in the short term for most people; however, some work indicates that acting more extraverted could be aversive for those who are relatively more introverted. To further understand participants' experiences in extraverted behavior interventions, we analyzed free‐response data from a study in which undergraduate participants generated ideas on desirable outcomes, anticipated obstacles, and prospective plans in their efforts to act more sociable. Additionally, to understand the potential relationship between components of person‐activity fit (how natural, enjoyable, and meaningful a person finds an intervention activity like acting more extraverted), we conducted exploratory correlational analyses between the components of fit, personality traits, desire to change extraversion, and the endorsement of outcomes, challenges, and plans identified from our thematic qualitative analysis. Our results suggest four main takeaways: (a) dispositional and situational shyness are highly prevalent challenges that bear on behavioral efforts to act more sociable; (b) lack of specificity in participant‐generated plans to act more sociable and their focus on thoughts and feelings instead of actionable behavior may inhibit desired behavior change; (c) participants' sense that their own personality serves as a barrier to desired change is negatively related to how natural, enjoyable, and meaningful they rate the intervention; and (d) more agreeable participants rate the intervention as more enjoyable and meaningful. We close by offering theoretical and practical recommendations for future research and interventions focused on fostering extraverted behaviors.
Prioritising Mentorship: The Key Attributes We Should Focus on From Our Clinical Teaching Fellows in Early Years Medical Education
Authors: Lascar Nadia , Leadbeater Wendy , Al‐Antary Noor , Cowling Joseph , Stocker Claire Joanne
Published: February 2025

Background

Clinical teaching fellows (CTFs) enhance medical students' education, yet their role in early undergraduate years is less understood. This study explores the key attributes of CTFs, as perceived by medical students, CTFs and staff, that contribute to the quality of students' learning experiences in the early years of medical school.

Methods

This mixed‐methods study was conducted at a UK medical school, involving surveys and focus groups with 102 early‐year MBChB (Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery) students, five CTFs and 15 staff. Participants identified CTF attributes contributing to students' learning experiences in the first 2 years of the programme. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and thematic analysis.

Results

The study identified 364 attributes, categorised into 12 themes. Key attributes included helpful/supportive, friendly/approachable and educator/facilitator. Students valued CTFs' approachable nature, while staff emphasised their educational role. Focus groups further highlighted the importance of CTFs' mentorship and pastoral care, interpreting helpful/supportive as sharing personal experiences and career guidance, friendly/approachable as building relatable connections and educator/facilitator as providing academic support.

Conclusion

Our study shows that in the early years of medical education, students value the mentoring skills of CTFs over their academic and clinical expertise. Medical schools should provide formal opportunities for CTFs to enhance their mentoring and pastoral care skills and ensure academic staff support these extended roles, potentially leading to improved student satisfaction and better preparation for clinical years. These insights could inform policy and training programs in medical schools globally, enhancing the overall quality of early medical education.
Mannose‐binding lectin 1.1A interacts with hypersensitive‐induced response 4 to promote hypersensitive cell death and defense responses in cotton upon Verticillium dahliae infection
Authors: Yuan Leitian , Wu Min , Tan Deming , Zhang Shuling , Zhang Huanyang , Li Jing , Xia Guixian , Wang Fuxin
Published: February 2025

Increasing evidence indicates that mannose‐binding lectins (MBLs) act as a lectin‐receptor‐like protein in plant immune responses, yet the functional basis remains elusive. In this study, we dissected the functional mechanism of GbMBL1.1A in defense against Verticillium dahliae infection in sea island cotton (Gossypium barbadense). GbMBL1.1A expressed preferentially in cotton roots and significantly upregulated upon V. dahliae infection. Transgenic expression of GbMBL1.1A in upland cotton (Gossypium hirsutum) and Arabidopsis remarkably improved the disease resistance of the plants, while silencing of GbMBL1.1A resulted in an increased susceptibility of cotton plants in response to V. dahliae attack. Protein interaction assays revealed that GbMBL1.1A interacted with the cotton hypersensitive‐induced response protein 4 (GbHIR4, a scaffold protein for immune signaling in the plasma membrane microdomain) through PAN domain. GbHIR4 expression was upregulated in response to V. dahliae invasion, and silencing of GbHIR4 seriously attenuated the disease tolerance of cotton plants. GbMBL1.1A enhanced the cell death phenotype induced by the transient expression of GbHIR4, and meanwhile promoted HR‐PCD and GbHIR4‐dependent resistance upon V. dahliae infection. The results suggested that GbMBL1.1A employed GbHIR4 as a downstream component to trigger the hypersensitive responses and therefore contributed to cotton resistance against V. dahliae. In addition, we observed that GbMBL1.1A overexpression could alter the phytohormone‐mediated defense and growth signaling under both normal and V. dahliae infection conditions. Collectively, these results demonstrated that the lectin receptor‐like protein GbMBL1.1A interacts with GbHIR4 in cotton immunity to induce the hypersensitive response, which is associated with phytohormone‐mediated defense and growth signaling.
Microbiological Quality and Antimicrobial Susceptibility Profile of Isolates from Beverages Sold at Ramadan Bazaar in Kuching, Sarawak
Authors: Azmi Nurul Azyla , Syed Mohamad Sharifah Aminah , Mohamad Khadijah , Jemain Suryani , Ab Mutalib Siti Roha , Sapee Fazdlina
Published: February 2025

Ramadan marks an entire month of fasting by Muslims and is also famous for its festive food bazaar, where people look forward to indulging in their favourite food and beverages. The microbiological safety of food and drink being sold at Ramadan bazaar is one of the important aspects that should be of concern. Thus, the present study was conducted to investigate the microbial quality specifically to beverages sold at Ramadan Bazaar in Kuching, Sarawak and to determine the antimicrobial susceptibility profile of the isolates. Using standard method, 34 beverage samples were analysed for Aerobic Plate Count, coliform, Escherichia coli, Salmonella spp., and Staphylococcus aureus. All samples were positive for coliform. E. coli, and S. aureus except for Salmonella spp. E. coli isolates were resistant to ampicillin, amoxicillin/clavulanic, cefoxitin and tetracycline, while S. aureus isolates were resistant towards ampicillin and penicillin. Hence, further studies need to assess the main source of bacterial contamination in beverages sold at Ramadan bazaars in terms of hygiene and sanitation of vendors.
Airborne and Surface Cross-Contamination of Bacteria Resistant to Carbapenem in Critical Units of a Teaching Hospital
Authors: Abdullah Muhammad Azim , Anua Siti Marwanis , Siti Suraiya  , Mazlan Nurzafirah , Juri Jesseca
Published: February 2025

Hospital-acquired infections (HAIs) have been significantly exacerbated by the escalating environmental contamination of critical units in hospital settings. The surfaces equipment, as well as the surrounding air, may serve as a source for multidrug-resistant organisms (MDRO) to spread and causes HAIs. Among the MDROs, Carbapenem Resistant Enterobacterales (CREs) are the main cause of concern due to their potential to contribute to high morbidity and mortality rates, causing outbreaks, and spreading resistance to other bacteria. This study was conducted to investigate the presence of CRE cross-contamination in critical units at a teaching hospital located on the East Coast of Malaysia. The total colony forming unit (CFU) of microbial were compared in different critical units and between morning and evening sessions. A total of 304 environmental samples comprised of airborne and swab samples were collected, while the temperature, relative humidity and number of occupants in the units were recorded. Gram staining, oxidase tests, biochemical tests and disk diffusion tests using carbapenem antibiotics were carried out to screen and identify the presence of carbapenem-resistance bacteria, specifically CREs. The findings showed the total CFU, which indicates the extent of microbial contamination, varies across different critical units. The presence of carbapenem-resistance bacteria (17 isolates) were detected in the environment at Ward X (n=8, 47.1%), intensive critical units (n=4, 23.5%), Neuro-ICU (n=2, 11.8%), and surgical intensive care units (n=3, 17.6%). Most of the critical units exhibited no notable disparity in the total CFU of microbials collected between morning and evening sessions (p>0.05) except the Neuro-ICU. In conclusion, as there was a presence of CREs in the critical unit environments of the teaching hospital, therefore, strengthening surveillance policy on the hygienic condition of the critical units and routine sampling is highly suggested to reduce the risk of HAIs outbreaks related to CREs.
Method for measuring acoustic radiation force of a focused ultrasound beam acting on an elastic sphere
Authors: Kotelnikova Liubov M. , Tsysar Sergey A. , Nikolaev Dmitry A. , Sapozhnikov Oleg A.
Published: February 2025

Acoustic radiation force (ARF) is a nonlinear phenomenon resulting from the wave momentum transfer to an absorbing or scattering target. ARF allows objects to be remotely manipulated, pushed, trapped, or pulled, which is used in medical applications such as kidney stone expulsion or acoustic tweezers. Such applications require development of methods for precision ARF measurements and calculations. The purpose of this paper is to present a method for direct measurement of the axial component of the ARF exerted by an ultrasound beam on its axis acting on a millimeter-sized spherical particle in a liquid. The method consists of weighing a rigid frame with a scatterer on electronic scales, similar to the radiation force balance method of measuring the total acoustic beam power. The capabilities of the method are demonstrated by applying it to spheres of different diameters (2–8 mm) and compositions (steel, glass). The additional objective is to provide experimental validation of the theoretical model of Sapozhnikov and Bailey [J. Acoust. Soc. Am. 133, (2013)], previously developed to calculate the ARF of an arbitrary acoustic beam on an elastic sphere in a liquid or gaseous medium based on the angular spectrum approach.
Structural basis of aquaporin-4 autoantibody binding in neuromyelitis optica
Authors: Gupta Meghna , Khandelwal Nitesh Kumar , Nelson Andrew , Hwang Peter , Pourmal Sergei , Bennett Jeffrey L. , Stroud Robert M.
Published: February 2025

Neuromyelitis optica (NMO) is an autoimmune disease of the central nervous system where pathogenic autoantibodies target the water channel aquaporin-4 on human astrocytes causing neurological impairment. Autoantibody binding leads to complement-dependent and complement-independent cytotoxicity, ultimately resulting in astrocyte death, demyelination, and neuronal loss. Aquaporin-4 assembles in astrocyte plasma membranes as symmetric tetramers or as arrays of tetramers. We report molecular structures of aquaporin-4 alone and bound to Fab fragments from patient-derived NMO autoantibodies using cryogenic electron microscopy. Each antibody binds to epitopes comprised of three extracellular loops of aquaporin-4 with contributions from multiple molecules in the assembly. The structures distinguish between antibodies that bind to the tetrameric form of aquaporin-4 and those targeting higher-order orthogonal arrays of tetramers that provide more diverse bridging epitopes.
Lignin gel emulsions for environmentally benign hair conditioning
Authors: Wang Fengyang , Nithianandam Sajesh , Pylypchuk Ievgen , Sipponen Mika H.
Published: February 2025

Hair care products have complex surfactant and stabilizer compositions arising from oleochemicals, raising concerns over sustainability. Here, we show a fully biobased hair conditioner based on micellar lignin gels that stabilize emulsions with triglyceride oils. We demonstrate competitive emulsion stability, rheological properties, and performance relative to an off-the-shelf commercial product. Lignin gel emulsion with a 6% weight fraction of coconut oil effectively lubricates damaged hair, confirmed by a 13% reduction in wet combing force and validated through multiscale microscopy analysis. Notably, organic solvent-free production simplifies the ingredient list and offers an environmentally benign route for lignin utilization in hair care.
Polarization-entangled Bell state generation from an epsilon-near-zero metasurface
Authors: Jia Wenhe , Saerens Grégoire , Talts Ülle-Linda , Weigand Helena , Chapman Robert J. , Li Liu , Grange Rachel , Yang Yuanmu
Published: February 2025

Pairs of polarization-entangled photons are important for diverse quantum technologies, such as quantum communication, computation, and imaging. However, generating complex polarization-entangled states has long been constrained by the available nonlinear susceptibility tensor of natural materials, necessitating cumbersome setups for additional coherent superposition or postselection. In this study, we experimentally demonstrate the generation of pairs of polarization-entangled photons using a plasmonic metasurface strongly coupled to an epsilon-near-zero (ENZ) material. By engineering a resonance at the pump wavelength and leveraging the field enhancement provided by the ENZ effect, the photon pair generation efficiency of the 68-nanometer-thick metasurface is substantially boosted compared to that of an unpatterned indium tin oxide film. More notably, the ENZ metasurface platform facilitates versatile manipulation of the system’s anisotropic second-order nonlinear susceptibility tensor, enabling direct control over the polarization states of the photon pairs and generating a polarization-entangled Bell state without additional components. This approach enables simultaneous photon pair generation and quantum state engineering in a compact platform.
Exploring molecular superfluidity in hydrogen clusters
Authors: Otani Hatsuki , Kuma Susumu , Miura Shinichi , Mustafa Majd , Lee Jeff C. W. , Djuricanin Pavle , Momose Takamasa
Published: February 2025

Molecular hydrogen (H
2
) has long been predicted to exhibit superfluidity—a state of zero viscosity—at extremely low temperatures. However, its existence remains under debate despite several experimental reports. In this study, we investigated the infrared transitions of methane embedded in clusters of parahydrogen molecules at 0.4 K using high-resolution helium nanodroplet spectroscopy. Our results revealed fully quantized rotational states of methane with minimal interference from surrounding H
2
molecules, enabling precise determination of the rotational constant for each hydrogen cluster. The cluster-size dependence of the determined rotational constant aligns with behavior predicted by path-integral Monte Carlo simulations, indicating that more than 60% of the hydrogen molecules in the clusters participate in quantum bosonic exchanges, a characteristic feature of superfluidity. This work provides strong experimental evidence for the existence of a superfluid phase of molecular hydrogen at 0.4 K, representing a major step forward in understanding quantum behaviors in molecular systems.
Mitochondrial translation regulates terminal erythroid differentiation by maintaining iron homeostasis
Authors: Morishima Tatsuya , Fakruddin Md. , Kanamori Yohei , Masuda Takeshi , Ogawa Akiko , Wang Yuxin , Schoonenberg Vivien A. C. , Butter Falk , Arima Yuichiro , Akaike Takaaki , Moroishi Toshiro , Tomizawa Kazuhito , Suda Toshio , Wei Fan-Yan , Takizawa Hitoshi
Published: February 2025

Mitochondrial tRNA taurine modifications mediated by mitochondrial tRNA translation optimization 1 (
Mto1
) is essential for the mitochondrial protein translation.
Mto1
deficiency was shown to induce proteostress in embryonic stem cells. A recent finding that a patient with
MTO1
gene mutation showed severe anemia led us to hypothesize that
Mto1
dysfunctions may result in defective erythropoiesis. Hematopoietic-specific
Mto1
conditional knockout (cKO) mice were embryonic lethal and showed niche-independent defect in erythroblast proliferation and terminal differentiation. Mechanistically, mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation complexes were severely impaired in the
Mto1
cKO fetal liver, and this was followed by cytosolic iron accumulation. Overloaded cytosolic iron promoted heme biosynthesis, which induced an unfolded protein response (UPR) in
Mto1
cKO erythroblasts. An iron chelator or UPR inhibitor rescued erythroid terminal differentiation in the
Mto1
cKO fetal liver in vitro. This mitochondrial regulation of iron homeostasis revealed the indispensable role of mitochondrial tRNA modification in fetal hematopoiesis.
LCK–co-receptor association ensures T cell lineage fidelity and maximizes epitope-specific TCR diversity
Authors: Zhang Justin B. , Chaurasia Priyanka , Nguyen Angela , Huang Zijian , Nguyen Trang T. , Xu Hui , Tran Mai T. , Reid Hugh H. , Jones Claerwen M. , Schattgen Stefan A. , Thiele Daniel , Thomas Paul G. , Rientjes Jeanette , Good-Jacobson Kim L. , Ruscher Roland , Littler Dene R. , Rossjohn Jamie , Zareie Pirooz , La Gruta Nicole L.
Published: February 2025

The interaction between the CD4/CD8 co-receptors and LCK (an Src family tyrosine kinase) is thought to augment T cell activation upon recognition of peptide-loaded major histocompatibility complexes (pMHCs). How this interaction influences antigen-specific T cell development is unclear however, as is its impact on naïve and immune antigen-specific T cell repertoires. In mice expressing mutated endogenous LCK unable to bind co-receptors (LCK
FREE
mice), we show that influenza A virus (IAV)–derived pMHC-specific CD8 and CD4 T cell responses had a significantly narrowed T cell receptor (TCR) repertoire, favoring high-affinity TCRs. This narrowing was established during T cell development and was exacerbated after viral infection. The dissociation of LCK from co-receptors also resulted in the redirection of CD4-fated T cells to the CD8 lineage, with expanded pMHCII-specific cytotoxic CD8 T cells observed after IAV infection. Thus, LCK–co-receptor association is critical for ensuring T cell lineage fidelity and maximizing antigen-specific T cell repertoire diversity.
Young zircon ages and compositions at Oregon’s Mount Hood as evidence of high-silica magma storage underneath an andesitic arc volcano
Authors: Klemetti Erik W. , Kent Adam J.R. , Cooper Kari M. , Herrold Emily , Coble Matthew , Hernández Lindsey
Published: February 2025

Magma storage under andesitic arc volcanoes is ambiguous due to the complexities of ascending mafic (or silicic) magma intruding preexisting crys­tal mush that could represent more than 100,000 yr of magmatic heritage. This interaction can lead to eruption of a hybridized or mingled magma, or it could merely yield hybridization without eruption. The record of some of these events is kept in the ages and compositions of trace phases like zir­con. We collected zircon U- Th disequilibria ages from the three most recent eruptive periods at Mount Hood: Polallie (30− 12 ka), Timberline (ca. 1.5 ka), and Old Maid (ca. 0.2 ka). We found that zircons in these lavas and tephras are dominantly less than 50 ka, with a small portion up to ca. 350 ka. Many zircon ages are within error of the eruption ages of the Timberline and Old Maid eruptions, suggesting active zircon crystallization in a high- silica crystal mush underneath Mount Hood that was constructed during and since the end of the Polallie Period. These zircons record the progressive fractionation of the Polallie Period magma body and the influence of mafic rejuvenation to produce hybrid andesite at Mount Hood. We propose a model wherein a silicic filter developed since ca. 50 ka and continues to form even as the eruption activity at Mount Hood has waned since ca. 12 ka.
INTENTAS - an entanglement-enhanced atomic sensor for microgravity
Authors: Anton O. , Bröckel I. , Derr D. , Fieguth A. , Franzke M. , Gärtner M. , Giese E. , Haase J. S. , Hamann J. , Heidt A. , Kanthak S. , Klempt C. , Kruse J. , Krutzik M. , Kubitza S. , Lotz C. , Müller K. , Pahl J. , Rasel E. M. , Schiemangk M. , Schleich W. P. , Schwertfeger S. , Wicht A. , Wörner L.
Published: February 2025

The INTENTAS project aims to develop an atomic sensor utilizing entangled Bose-Einstein condensates (BECs) in a microgravity environment. This key achievement is necessary to advance the capability for measurements that benefit from both entanglement-enhanced sensitivities and extended interrogation times. The project addresses significant challenges related to size, weight, and power management (SWaP) specific to the experimental platform at the Einstein-Elevator in Hannover. The design ensures a low-noise environment essential for the creation and detection of entanglement. Additionally, the apparatus features an innovative approach to the all-optical creation of BECs, providing a flexible system for various configurations and meeting the requirements for rapid turnaround times. Successful demonstration of this technology in the Einstein-Elevator will pave the way for a future deployment in space, where its potential applications will unlock high-precision quantum sensing.
Dynamic behaviors of Cu–Ag bimetallic nanoparticles: Influence of ionic-controlling agent
Authors: Liang Mengfan , Wei Xinyuan , Wan Li , Yang Shujie , Liu Jinkun , Li Junfeng , Zhu Yan
Published: February 2025

In this paper, the effect of the ionic-controlling agent on dynamics behavior of the Cu–Ag system in ethylene glycol (EG) was studied for the first time via the molecular dynamic method. The optimized Cu–Ag bimetallic nanoparticles (BNPs) with different control agents are evaluated by dynamic stability, total energy, interaction energy, atom distribution of Cu–Ag–EG system and concentration distribution of different components. We found that the Ag atoms tend to be more stable on the outer surface of the Cu–Ag BNPs in the presence of [Formula: see text], while for the presence of H[Formula: see text], on the contrary, Cu atoms tend to be located on the outer surface. Moreover, the interaction between Cu–Ag BNPs and control agents exhibits the following sequence: [Formula: see text]. For the Cu–Ag–EG–NO[Formula: see text] system, the presence of a small amount of control agent makes the interfacial behavior of the Cu–Ag–EG system much more complicated. It indicates that the content of the ionic agent is not the more the better. On the base of maintaining the stability of the system, adding an appropriate amount of controlling agent can effectively control the structure of Cu–Ag BNPs, and then adjust the morphology and properties of the production.
The Automatic Scoring Method of English Translation for College Students Considering Latent Semantics
Authors: Cao Yanyan
Published: February 2025

The ultimate goal of this study is to design and develop a Latent Semantic Analysis-Document Relevance Score–Entropy-Based Translation Fluency (LD-ENTF) scoring method that takes into account both latent semantics and chapter structure, to solve the scoring problem of subjective translation questions. First, the latent semantics are transformed into vectors and subjected to singular value decomposition to capture the deep semantics of the translated text. Next, we use the TF–IDF method to measure the importance of words to ensure accurate evaluation of keywords. Subsequently, in terms of the structure of the translated chapters, the Metric for Evaluation of Translation with Explicit Ordering (METEOR) method is used to transform the sentences into chapter representation structures and align the corresponding words. Finally, the entropy of the translation is calculated using the ENTF method to obtain the final score. In the comparison experiments with Entropy-Based Translation Fluency, Translation Edit Rate, Bilingual Evaluation Understudy and Metric for Evaluation of Translation with Explicit Ordering methods, the LD-ENTF scoring method showed excellent performance. It achieved the highest accuracy of 0.993 and the lowest of 0.95. Its average accuracy was 0.97 and the root-mean-square error was 1.023. The LD-ENTF scoring method can significantly improve the accuracy and efficiency of translation evaluation by comprehensively considering Latent Semantic Analysis and Chapter Structure Analysis, promote high-quality dissemination and exchange of academic research results worldwide and assist in knowledge management.
Ensuring the Financial Stability of the Banking System of Ukraine in the Conditions of Internal and External Shocks
Authors: Novak Oksana S. , Zashchypas Serhii M. , Sliusar Yevhenii V. , Chaikovskyi Roman S. , Burtsev Yaroslav I.
Published: February 2025

The aim of this paper is to examine strategies used to strengthen the financial stability of Ukraine’s banking system focusing on the role of systemic risk factors, foreign capital, and financial innovations. The research develops a framework for assessing financial stability by identifying key shock factors and their impacts. This approach uses the financial stress index, clustering analysis, and analytic hierarchy process to assess stability and prioritize solutions. As a result, it is proven that the strengthening of the influence of foreign banking capital on the FSBS leads to the development of the banking business, the creation of new jobs, the introduction of the latest technologies, and the creation of additional value of banking products. Moreover, a methodical toolkit is developed to identify reserves to strengthen financial stability in the banking system. The research highlights the interplay between external shocks and financial stress indices during the Russian-Ukrainian war. It provides insights into mitigating financial instability and reinforces the critical role of regulatory frameworks in adapting to economic crises.
Xanthogranulomatous Pyelonephritis in a Transplant Kidney Leading to Severe Allograft Dysfunction
Authors: Baig Usman , Mirza Ahmad , Vasanth Payaswini , Mulloy Laura , Beigh Shameem , Gani Imran
Published: February 2025

Xanthogranulomatous pyelonephritis (XPN) is a rare and unusual form of pyelonephritis that infrequently occurs in renal allografts. Clinical presentation ranges from asymptomatic to fever, pyuria, and graft dysfunction. We present a case of a young African American male who presented with a marked elevation in serum creatinine from a baseline of 1.8–1.9 to 9.86 mg/dL. Transplant kidney biopsy was consistent with the diagnosis of XPN, showing xanthoma cells, which are pathognomonic for this condition. Following antibiotic treatment, allograft function improved and return to dialysis was averted. Clinicians should consider XPN in transplant patients with deteriorating allograft function, as its presentation can mimic more common conditions. Graft salvage with appropriate antimicrobial therapy should be attempted before considering nephrectomy which risks reinitiation of dialysis.