bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Utility of Prolonged Chronic Unpredictable Stress to Study the Effects of Chronic Fluoxetine, Eicosapentaenoic Acid, and Lipopolysaccharide on Anxiety‐Like Behavior and Hippocampal Transcriptomic Responses in Male Rats
Authors: Demin Konstantin A. , Kolesnikova Tatiana O. , Galstyan David S. , Krotova Natalia A. , Ilyin Nikita P. , Derzhavina Ksenia A. , Seredinskaya Maria , Nerush Maria , Pushkareva Sofia A. , Masharsky Alexey , de Abreu Murilo S. , Kalueff Allan V.
Published: February 2025

Chronic stress is a common trigger of multiple neuropsychiatric illnesses. Animal models are widely used to study stress‐induced brain disorders and their interplay with neuroinflammation and other neuroimmune processes. Here, we apply the prolonged 12‐week chronic unpredictable stress (PCUS) model to examine rat behavioral and hippocampal transcriptomic responses to stress and to chronic 4‐week treatment with a classical antidepressant fluoxetine, an anti‐inflammatory agent eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), a pro‐inflammatory agent lipopolysaccharide and their combinations. Overall, PCUS evoked anxiety‐like behavioral phenotype in rats, corrected by chronic fluoxetine (alone or combined with other drugs), and EPA. PCUS also evoked pronounced transcriptomic responses in rat hippocampi, involving > 200 differentially expressed genes. While pharmacological manipulations did not affect hippocampal gene expression markedly, Gpr6, Drd2 and Adora2a were downregulated in stressed rats treated with fluoxetine, EPA and fluoxetine + EPA, suggesting their respective protein products (G protein‐coupled receptor 6, dopamine D2 receptor and adenosine A2A receptor) as potential evolutionarily conserved targets under chronic stress. Overall, these findings support the validity of rat PCUS paradigm as a useful model to study stress‐related anxiety pathogenesis, and call for further research probing how various conventional and novel drugs may (co)modulate behavioral and neurotranscriptomic biomarkers of chronic stress.
A Deep‐Learning Model for Multi‐class Audio Classification of Vocal Fold Pathologies in Office Stroboscopy
Authors: Kim Yeo E. , Dobko Maria , Li Haomiao , Shao Tianlan , Periyakoil Preethi , Tipton Courtney , Colasacco Christine , Serpedin Aisha , Elemento Olivier , Sabuncu Mert , Pitman Michael , Sulica Lucian , Rameau Anaïs
Published: February 2025

Objective

To develop and validate a deep‐learning classifier trained on voice data extracted from videolaryngostroboscopy recordings, differentiating between three different vocal fold (VF) states: healthy (HVF), unilateral paralysis (UVFP), and VF lesions, including benign and malignant pathologies.

Methods

Patients with UVFP (n = 105), VF lesions (n = 63), and HVF (n = 41) were retrospectively identified. Voice samples were extracted from stroboscopic videos (Pentax Laryngeal Strobe Model 9400), including sustained /i/ phonation, pitch glide, and /i/ sniff task. Extracted audio files were converted into Mel‐spectrograms. Voice samples were independently divided into training (80%), validation (10%), and test (10%) by patient. Pretrained ResNet18 models were trained to classify (1) HVF and pathological VF (lesions and UVFP), and (2) HVF, UVFP, and VF lesions. Both classifiers were further validated on an external dataset consisting of 12 UVFP, 13 VF lesions, and 15 HVF patients. Model performances were evaluated by accuracy and F1‐score.

Results

When evaluated on a hold‐out test set, the binary classifier demonstrated stronger performance compared to the multi‐class classifier (accuracy 83% vs. 40%; F1‐score 0.90 vs. 0.36). When evaluated on an external dataset, the binary classifier achieved an accuracy of 63% and F1‐score of 0.48, compared to 35% and 0.25 for the multi‐class classifier.

Conclusions

Deep‐learning classifiers differentiating HVF, UVFP, and VF lesions were developed using voice data from stroboscopic videos. Although healthy and pathological voice were differentiated with moderate accuracy, multi‐class classification lowered model performance. The model performed poorly on an external dataset. Voice captured in stroboscopic videos may have limited diagnostic value, though further studies are needed.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 2025
Agro‐Forestry Integrated Management of Karst Rocky Desertification Control: The Model Establishment and Practices in South China
Authors: Sheng Maoyin , Yang Chunmei , Wang Linjiao
Published: February 2025

Karst rocky desertification (KRD) has become the most serious ecological environmental problem in South China. Since 2008, the Chinese government has implemented a special project for KRD control. Because there are large populations in KRD areas of South China who need to survive, KRD control must not only pay attention to the ecological effects of vegetation restoration but also take into account the economic benefits and industrial effects of the local populations' survival needs. Agro‐forestry integrated management can produce remarkable economic effects in vegetation restorations and can play an important role in KRD control. In this review, firstly, the KRD hazards and control in South China were reviewed. The features and advantages of agro‐forestry integrated management were concluded. Then, based on a typical case in South China, the model establishment and practice of agro‐forestry integrated management for KRD control were introduced. The case results showed that agro‐forestry integrated management achieved remarkable ecological and economic benefits in KRD control. Finally, the existing challenges and their optimization strategies of the agro‐forestry integrated management for KRD control were provided. This review provides important clues for scientific KRD control and is of great significance for the sustainable development of the karst region in South China.
The Effect of Perceived Infectious Disease Threats on the Preference of User‐Designed Products
Authors: Zhong Xiuli , Wang Yu , Wang Tao
Published: February 2025

This study investigates the impact of perceived infectious disease threats on consumer preferences for user‐designed products. Drawing on both secondary and experimental data, we demonstrate that infectious disease threats enhance consumer preferences for user‐designed products (Studies 1 and 2), with the desire for self‐reliance mediating this process (Studies 3 and 4). Additionally, consumer mindset moderates this effect (Study 5). The impact of infectious disease threats on user‐designed product preference is evident only in consumers with a growth mindset and not in those with a fixed mindset. This study reveals consumer interest in self‐reliance and user‐designed products in the face of pathogen threats, which can help organizations adopt effective marketing practices to respond to challenges during pathogen epidemics.
Experimentelle und rechnerisch validierte Methode zur Bestimmung der Mindesteinschraubtiefe von Schraubenverbindungen mit gefurchtem Mutterngewinde
Authors: Kraemer F. , Binder T. , Klein M. , Oechsner M.
Published: February 2025

Die Einschraubtiefe und die Größe des Vorlochdurchmessers bestimmen neben dem Scherfestigkeitsverhältnis der eingesetzten Werkstoffe die quasi‐statische Beanspruchbarkeit von Schraubenverbindungen mit gefurchtem Gewinde. Zur Validierung eines neuen Bewertungsansatzes zur Bestimmung der erforderlichen Mindesteinschraubtiefe werden Auszugsversuche mit variierter Einschraubtiefe und Gewindeüberdeckung für verschiedene Gewindetypen und Gewindegrößen durchgeführt. In Form des Beanspruchbarkeitsverhältnisses eines perfekt ausgeformten Gewindes und dem eines zu bewertenden Gewindes wird die Gewindeflankenüberdeckung des gefurchten Mutterngewindes in der Auslegung der erforderlichen Mindesteinschraubtiefe berücksichtigt.
Evaluation of mechanical properties for Ricinus communis L plant fiber/epoxy composite
Authors: Egala R. , Dewangan K. , Setti S. G.
Published: February 2025

This research explores the mechanical properties of castor oil plant (Ricinus communis L) natural fiber‐reinforced epoxy composites, addressing the need for sustainable materials. Cortex and xylem fibers extracted from castor oil plant residue using a standardized method were used to fabricate unidirectional long fiber and short random fiber composites. Various fiber volume fractions (10 %, 20 %, 30 %, 40 %) and fiber lengths (5 mm to 40 mm) of cortex fibers were tested according to ASTM standards and results showed that fibers of diameters 275 μm to 325 μm, have superior tensile strength (290 MPa to 346 MPa) compared to xylem fibers (90 MPa to 140 MPa). Composites of 40 % volume fraction cortex fibers aligned longitudinally exhibited the highest tensile (76.35 MPa), flexural (121.45 MPa), and impact strength (6.99 kJ/m2) significantly improved compared to the epoxy matrix. For short random cortex fiber composites, the optimal mechanical performance was achieved with 20 mm fibers and a 40 % volume fraction, resulting in the highest tensile strength (32.12 MPa), flexural strength (84.31 MPa), and impact energy (40 J/m). These results highlight the potential of castor oil cortex fibers to enhance the mechanical properties of epoxy composites for various engineering applications.
Advancement of tribological properties of AA 5083 aluminum matrix composite through the incorporation of micro‐ and nano‐copper ferrite reinforcements synthesized from mulberry leaves (Morus alba L.) using a green synthesis method
Authors: Işıtan A. , Sulak M. , Özen F. , Onar V.
Published: February 2025

This study investigates the enhancement of wear and friction performance in an AA 5083 matrix composite by incorporating copper ferrite (CuFe2O4) micro and nanoparticles, synthesized through a green process using mulberry (Morus alba L.) leaf extract for the first time. Two distinct composites are fabricated using the liquid metallurgy vortex‐route method featuring an aluminum AA 5083 matrix and 0.2 % micro‐ and nano‐ copper ferrite reinforcement by weight. AA 5083 cast alloy under identical conditions. Characterization analyses were conducted to elucidate the composite properties. The composite samples are underwent wear tests against a steel disc under three different loads (10 N, 20 N, and 40 N) at two sliding distances (250 m and 500 m), maintaining a constant sliding speed of 2.6 m/s using a pin‐on‐disc wear test apparatus. The composites exhibited superior wear and friction performance compared to the unreinforced material. Overall, the nano‐copper ferrite reinforced material showcased, on average, 33 % and 52 % lower wear rates than the unreinforced material, and 27 % and 31 % lower wear rates than the micro‐copper ferrite reinforced material respectively.
Effect of micro‐sized blast furnace slag on physical, mechanical, and thermo‐mechanical properties of bi‐directional date palm fiber reinforced polymer composite
Authors: Pradhan M. , Patnaik A. , Banerjee M. K. , Mishra S.
Published: February 2025

This present research work focuses on studying the physical, mechanical, and thermo‐mechanical behavior of blast furnace slag (BFS) in bi‐directional date palm fiber reinforced hybrid polymer composites. During this investigation, the different weight percentage of blast furnace slag filler (from 3 wt.‐% to 7 wt.‐%) was added to date palm fiber to fabricate epoxy‐based composite by vacuum assisted resign transfer molding (VARTM) technique under controlled pressure conditions. The fabricated composite were characterized for physical (density, void content, hardness), mechanical testing (tensile, flexural, inter‐laminar shear strength, impact strength and fracture toughness) and thermal properties. The experimental result indicated varied rate of deterioration for tensile strength of the composites and the maximum tensile strength 69.51 MPa was obtained for blast furnace slag (3 wt.‐%) and date palm fiber (30 wt.‐%) hybrid composite. The optimum flexural and inter laminar shear strength has been obtained to be 85.72 MPa and 9.43 MPa for 7 wt.‐% blast furnace slag‐filled date palm fiber‐epoxy hybrid composite. Similarly, in case of fracture toughness, blast furnace slag‐filled composites, fracture toughness increases by approximately 20 %, 28 %, and 38 % respectively over unfilled composites. Based upon the results of the present research work can be afterward prolonged for automobile components and low‐grade structural application in addition to optimal waste utilization to reduce environmental degradation.
Influences of composite additives and technological parameters on the microstructure and properties of electrolytic copper foil
Authors: Zhang B. , Sun W. C. , Liu E. Y. , Xu Y. F. , Zhou M. R. , Cai H. , Zhang J. L. , Jia T. Z.
Published: February 2025

In this paper, the additives consisting of bis‐(3‐sulfopropyl)‐disulfide, hydroxyethylcellulose and collagen additive compounding are used to fabricate ultra‐thin copper foils with low roughness on titanium substrates. The results show that the deposited layers obtained at the electrodeposition time of 3 min, the electrolyte temperature of 50 °C and the output voltage of 2.5 V exhibit small grain size and good adhesion to the substrate. Meanwhile, the effects of the two‐component additive and the three‐component additive on the microstructures, surface roughness and electrochemical behavior of copper foils are studied. The x‐ray diffraction results reveal that copper foils prepared by simultaneous introduction of 0.06 g/L bis‐(3‐sulfopropyl)‐disulfide and 0.08 g/L collagen possess a dense and homogeneous structure with the smallest grain size and the lowest roughness, which is diminished by 26.17 %. The electrochemical results indicated that the SC additive had an inhibitory effect on the deposition of copper ions, while the SH additive exerted depolarizing effect in this electrolyte system, accelerating the deposition of copper particles, which was attributed to the antagonistic interaction between bis‐(3‐sulfopropyl)‐disulfide and hydroxyethylcellulose that hindered the preferential adsorption of the additive at the surface protrusions, resulting in the decrease in the refinement effect of the bis‐(3‐sulfopropyl)‐disulfide additive. Under the optimized process parameters, the increase in the deposition rate of Cu2+ balances the relationship between nucleation and growth of copper ions, which ultimately produces the copper foil with smooth surface and low roughness.
Long‐Term Outcomes on Pallidal Neurostimulation for Dystonia: A Controlled, Prospective 10‐Year Follow‐Up
Authors: Krause Patricia , Mahlknecht Philipp , Skogseid Inger Marie , Steigerwald Frank , Deuschl Günther , Erasmi Richard , Schnitzler Alfons , Warnecke Tobias , Müller Jörg , Poewe Werner , Schneider Gerd‐Helge , Vesper Jan , Warneke Nils , Eisner Wilhelm , Prokop Thomas , Müller Jan‐Uwe , Volkmann Jens , Kühn Andrea A. ,   for the Deep‐Brain Stimulation for Dystonia Study Group
Published: February 2025

Background

Pallidal neurostimulation is an effective treatment for severe isolated dystonia, but long‐term data from clinical trials are lacking.

Objectives

To evaluate long‐term efficacy and safety of pallidal neurostimulation in patients with isolated generalized or segmental dystonia.

Methods

Extension study of the prospective multicenter trial (n = 40; July 2002 to May 2004), all patients received effective stimulation and underwent regular follow‐up. The 10‐year follow‐up (n = 31) included Burke–Fahn–Marsden Dystonia Rating Scale (BFMDRS) motor and disability score, Beck Depression Inventory, Beck Anxiety Inventory, and Mattis Dementia Rating Scale. Primary and secondary endpoints compared motor symptoms, disability scores, mood, and cognition changes.

Results

Thirty‐one patients (12 female), aged 23–72 years, completed the 10‐year study extension. Per protocol analysis showed sustained significant improvement in BFMDRS motor scores at 10 years compared with baseline, without significant change from the 6‐month or 5‐year follow‐up. On average, motor scores decreased by 25.3 ± 5.2 points at 10 years (P < 0.0001; 56% improvement). Individual outcomes varied, with 27 responders (≥25% improvement; mean improvement 65.2 ± 21.4%) and 13 non‐responders compared with baseline. Sustained improvements were seen in disability, mood, and anxiety scores. Cognition remained stable.

Conclusions

This study presents the longest prospective, multicenter follow‐up of pallidal neurostimulation in generalized and segmental dystonia. Two‐thirds of patients showed strong and stable long‐term improvements of dystonia, confirming sustained efficacy and safety over 10 years in treatment‐refractory dystonic patients. However, one‐third experienced primary (3/40) or secondary (10/40) treatment failure. Diagnostic advances, including genetic testing, and technological progress in pallidal neurostimulation may help to reduce the non‐responder rates in the future. © 2025 The Author(s). Movement Disorders published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
Robust Resilient Base Containment Control of Fractional Order Multiagent Systems With Disturbance and Time Delays
Authors: Alsinai Ammar , Ullah Khan Niazi Azmat , Zeeshan Babar Muhammad , Jamil Airish , Faisal Nujood
Published: February 2025

This article examines the resilient base containment control (CC) for fractional order multiple agent system with disturbance term in the dynamical system. In order to deal with resilient base CC in Riemann–Liouville sense with time delays, a simple and effective method is proposed where followers have weighted digraph topology among them. A disturbance factor is present into both linear and nonlinear delayed RL‐fractional‐order multiple agent systems (FMASs) with distributed time delays. This disturbance term effect the agents by introducing the uncertainty into the behavior of agents. In this article, Lyapunov technique, fractional calculus properties, and analytical methods are used to approach resilient base CC. The major benefit of this approach is that the first‐order derivative of Lyapunov function may be used to keep away from complex calculations, which effectively reduce troubles and difficulties resulting from time delays and fractional derivatives. At the end of our study, three illustration are provided to show the effectiveness and validity of our approach.
Estimates of Approximation Numbers, Nuclearity of the Resolvent of a Third‐Order Singular Differential Operator, and the Completeness of Its Root Vectors
Authors: Muratbekov Mussakan , Muratbekov Madi , Shuitenov Gabit
Published: February 2025

In this paper, we examine a third‐order singular differential operator in the space , with a coefficient which is a continuous function on and exhibits potential growth at infinity. We prove the existence of the operator's resolvent and establish the maximal regularity of the solutions to the equation associated with the operator. We also prove the compactness property of the resolvent and obtain two‐sided bounds for the singular numbers (s‐numbers). These bounds provide the rate at which the resolvent of the operator under consideration can be approximated by finite‐dimensional linear operators. To the best of our knowledge, we establish for the first time the nuclearity of the resolvent for a third‐order differential operator and demonstrate the completeness of the operator's root vectors in the case of an unbounded domain with a rapidly growing coefficient at infinity.
Testing a Personalized Behavioral Weight Loss Approach Using Multifactor Prescriptions and Self‐Experimentation: 12‐Week mHealth Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial Results
Authors: Martinez Caitlin E. , Hatley Karen E. , Polzien Kristen , Diamond Molly , Tate Deborah F.
Published: February 2025

Background

Behavioral weight loss (WL) interventions typically follow standard diet and activity prescriptions for intervention duration to produce an energy deficit. Though average weight losses in these programs are clinically meaningful, there is heterogeneity in weight outcomes. Personalized diet and activity prescriptions may help increase the potency of WL programs by reducing this heterogeneity.

Methods

This 12‐week pilot study randomized participants (n = 35; BMI 34.6 ± 4.9 kg/m2, 34% with HbA1c 5.7%–6.4%) in a 3:1 ratio to a Personalized Behavioral Weight Loss (PBWL) or standard BWL and compared the feasibility and efficacy of these approaches. Both groups received a study mobile app, smart scale, activity tracker, and weekly telephone coaching sessions; PBWL participants received a continuous glucose monitoring device. PBWL participants had goals for 1) macronutrient composition (low fat or carbohydrate), 2) meal frequency (3 meals or meals and snacks), and 3) activity focus (daily or weekly goal); they experimented with different 3‐part prescriptions, in random order and combination, for the first 4 weeks then picked their 3 goals to follow for weeks 5–12.

Results

Study retention (100%) and satisfaction were high. Mean 3‐month weight loss (kg) was greater in PBWL (−7.08 (0.74)) than BWL (−3.79 (0.84), P = 0.03); 74% of PBWL and 63% of BWL participants were “optimizers” who achieved a 5% weight loss at 3 months. PBWL optimizers lost more weight (−8.66 (0.66)) than BWL optimizers (−4.76 (0.43), p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Experimentally‐derived personalized prescriptions supported greater 12‐week weight loss than standard recommendations.

Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04639076.
Investigations on Local Minimum Problem for Dual‐Quaternion‐Based Sliding Mode Control With Artificial Potential Functions
Authors: Stankovic Ana , Yang Juntang , Huwald Markus , Ben‐Larbi Mohamed Khalil , Müller Wolfgang H.
Published: February 2025

This paper investigates a sliding mode control law based on dual quaternions for six‐degree‐of‐freedom (six‐DOF) proximity operations between a chaser and a target spacecraft. Dual quaternions, which can simultaneously represent both the rotation and translation of rigid bodies, effectively model the coupled relative motion during these operations. The sliding surface design incorporates artificial potential functions, enabling the consideration of motion constraints including field‐of‐view restrictions, approach path constraints, and collision avoidance. However, these functions are prone to local minima, where attractive and repulsive forces balance each other out, leading to undesired convergence. This paper presents a comprehensive mathematical analysis of the local minimum problem, elucidating the impact of individual and combined constraints on the chaser behavior. To address the local minimum issue, an active escape mechanism is proposed to apply additional corrective forces to help the chaser overcome these traps and achieve reliable control. Numerical simulation evaluates the proposed solution, confirming its effectiveness in resolving local minima challenges and enhancing mission reliability.
Unveiling the intriguing relationship: oncogenic KRAS, morphological shifts, and mutational complexity in pancreatic mucinous cystic neoplasms
Authors: Schulte  , Beck Annika , Marienfeld Ralf , Azoitei Ninel , Barth Thomas , Beutel Alica , Benes Vladimir , Büchler Markus , Gaisa Nadine , Kilani Katja , Giese Nathalia , Michalski Christoph W , Möller Peter , Perkhofer Lukas , Rausch Tobias , Repky Stefan , Roger Elodie , Scheible Jeanette , Seufferlein Thomas , Schirmacher Peter , Berger  , Hackert Thilo , Kleger Alexander
Published: February 2025

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) often arises from preexisting cystic lesions such as intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms (IPMN) and mucinous cystic neoplasms (MCN). This study investigated the molecular heterogeneity and mutational landscape of MCN in relation to PDAC, highlighting the significance of KRAS mutations in tumor progression. Utilizing targeted next‐generation sequencing on low‐grade MCN and invasive PDAC samples, we identified a substantial overlap in mutational profiles, particularly mutations in KRAS, TP53, and FBXW7. Specifically, 69.2% of MCN exhibited somatic mutations, with KRAS mutations being a predominant oncogenic driver. The characterization of mutant versus wildtype KRAS variant allele frequencies (VAF) indicated higher mutation levels in PDAC compared to MCN, suggesting an evolutionary trajectory toward malignancy. Further histological analysis of 12 additional MCN cases revealed significant intratumor heterogeneity, with variant KRAS mutation distributions correlating with distinct cellular morphologies and dysplastic features. Additionally, we explored the potential of liquid biopsies, demonstrating a concordance rate of 71.4% for KRAS mutation detection in circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) relative to tissue biopsies across cohorts. Our findings underscore the relevance of evaluating KRAS mutations—herein referred to as VAF per microdissected region—as they relate to histopathological markers of dysplasia, contributing to improved stratification of pancreatic lesions and facilitating personalized treatment strategies. In conclusion, this comprehensive analysis of MCN highlights the importance of KRAS as a crucial biomarker for both malignant progression and therapeutic decision‐making in pancreatic pathology. Ultimately, our study suggests that characterizing the mutational landscape and histological features of MCN can enhance early detection and intervention strategies for at‐risk patients. © 2025 The Author(s). The Journal of Pathology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.
Cytoreductive Surgery and Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy for Pediatric Abdominal Rhabdomyosarcoma: Experience of a Reference Pediatric Oncosurgical Center
Authors: Urla Cristian , Wagner Benedikt , Schmidt Andreas , Fideler Frank , Schäfer Jürgen , Neunhoeffer Felix , Ebinger Martin , Seitz Guido , Fuchs Jörg
Published: February 2025

Background

Pediatric abdominal rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) represents an oncosurgical challenge. For adults with peritoneal carcinomatosis and for children/adolescents with desmoplastic small round cell tumors (DSRCT), cytoreductive surgery (CRS) combined with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) has been shown to be an effective treatment. Thereby, we present the largest series on CRS and HIPEC in patients with abdominal RMS.

Patients and Methods

Between August 2013 and January 2024, 18 patients (9 female and 9 male) with abdominal RMS underwent CRS and HIPEC at our institution. All patients were treated according to an institutionalized protocol. The indication for surgery was established by a multidisciplinary national tumor board. HIPEC was performed using cisplatin (37.5–100 mg/m2) and doxorubicin (15–30 mg/m2) for 60 min at 42°C. A retrospective review of patient's records was performed.

Results

The median age at operation was 3.8 years. A complete cytoreduction was achieved in 17/18 patients. Median length of hospital stay was 11 days. Mean length of ICU stay was 2.5 days. No procedure‐associated complications and no major short‐/long‐term toxicities were recorded. The median follow‐up was 20 months. The 5‐year overall survival (OS) and event‐free survival (EFS) were 72% and 53%, respectively. Patients >10 years and those with alveolar histology had the worst prognosis (OS 0%). Patients with relapse after HIPEC (6/18) had a significantly poorer survival compared with those without recurrence (OS 33% vs. 100%, p = 0.001).

Conclusions

CRS and HIPEC are effective in patients with abdominal RMS. Patients >10 years, those with alveolar RMS and those with relapse after HIPEC had the worst outcome.
Image‐Guided Biopsy for the Diagnosis and Molecular Profiling of Hepatoblastoma
Authors: Schoeman Sean , Escobar Fernando , Kreiger Portia , MacFarland Suzanne , Mattei Peter , Rungsiprakarn Phassawan , Srinivasan Abhay , Acord Michael
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Studies on the use of image‐guided percutaneous biopsy for hepatoblastoma (HB), and recommendations put forth by the pediatric hepatic international tumor trial (PHITT), are limited. It is unknown if sufficient tissue can be obtained for trial enrollment as well as molecular profiling, which will likely play a key role in informing future treatment strategies.

Methods and Materials

Patients with HB who underwent percutaneous biopsy at initial diagnosis in interventional radiology (IR) over a 12‐year period at a single center were included. Patient demographics, pretreatment extent of disease (PRETEXT) stage, tumor size, and procedure details were collected. Pathology reports and tumor genomic analysis, when performed, were assessed for specimen adequacy. Post‐procedure records were assessed for hemoperitoneum.

Results

A total of 33 percutaneous biopsies were performed on 32 patients [17 female; median age 1.3 years (IQR: 0.7–2.5 years); median weight 10.5 kg (IQR: 7.4–12.7 kg)]. Most (n = 27) had a single liver lesion, and most (n = 18) were PRETEXT II. A total of 15 were positive for at least one annotation factor. Median longest tumor axis was 9.3 cm (IQR: 5.0–13.5 cm). A total of 16 patients had concurrent non‐targeted liver biopsy, per PHITT recommendations. An 18‐gauge instrument was most commonly used (n = 24, 73%) with a median of 8 cores (IQR: 6–12) obtained. There were no instances of hemoperitoneum.

Tissue was adequate for histologic diagnosis in 97% (n = 32), with histologic subtyping obtained in 94% (30/32). When available (n = 29), comparison with the subsequent surgical resection specimen showed subtype concordance in 15 (52%) patients and minor variations secondary to sampling or treatment effect in 14 patients. Molecular profiling was completed on 21/21 specimens (100%), with 19/21 (90%) showing potentially clinically significant variants, most commonly in CTNNB1 (16/21).

Conclusion

In this single‐center study, percutaneous biopsy resulted in no serious adverse events, a high rate of diagnosis, and successful subtyping and molecular characterization of HB.
Differential Expression of BCL2 and IGFBP2 in Childhood Immune Thrombocytopenic Purpura Clinical Subtypes: Implications for Predicting Disease Progression and Apoptotic Regulation
Authors: Bakr Salwa , Dash Hanaa El , Youssef Asmaa Ahmed Ali , El‐Hamid Rehab Galal Abd
Published: February 2025

Background

Immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP), which poses challenges in treatment response, is an autoimmune‐mediated bleeding disorder with an extremely complex pathogenesis and unpredictable clinical progression. Dysregulation of apoptotic pathways may influence both the pathogenesis and prognosis of ITP. This study aimed to evaluate the expression patterns of the apoptotic protein insulin‐like growth factor‐binding protein 2 (IGFBP2) and the anti‐apoptotic protein B‐cell lymphoma 2 (BCL2) as potential predictive or prognostic biomarkers for disease progression in childhood ITP.

Patients and Methods

The expression levels of BCL2 and IGFBP2 were assessed in peripheral blood samples from 40 pediatric ITP patients and 30 age‐ and sex‐matched healthy controls using enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assays.

Results

Plasma levels of BCL2 and IGFBP2 were higher in ITP patients than in control subjects. Although the difference in IGFBP2 expression was not statistically significant (p = 0.910), BCL2 expression was significantly elevated (p < 0.001). Notably, chronic ITP patients had significantly lower levels of both IGFBP2 and BCL2 markers compared to patients who achieved spontaneous recovery (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

BCL2 and IGFBP2 appear to be promising noninvasive biomarkers for predicting disease outcomes in newly diagnosed ITP, emphasizing the need for validation in large‐scale, multicenter longitudinal studies.
Evaluation of the physical–chemical properties of the blend of arrowroot starch and cactus mucilage
Authors: de Lima Silva Ivo Diego , Caetano Viviane Fonseca , de Andrade Michelle Félix , de Moraes Filho Luiz Emílio Pessoa Timeni , de Almeida Yeda Medeiros Bastos , do Nascimento Simões Adriano , Brito Andréa Monteiro Santana Silva , Maria Vinhas Glória
Published: February 2025

The replacement of these polymers by biodegradable ones is a promising alternative to mitigate the environmental problems caused by these materials. The mixture of biopolymers obtained from arrowroot starch (ST) and cactus mucilage (MU) may have its properties enhanced for the production of food packaging. In this study, it was used solution casting technique to develop blends of ST and MU in different compositions, analyzing their thermal, mechanical, and physical–chemical properties. Through a principal component analysis, it was verified that the technique used to mix the polymers was satisfactory. A reduction in the crystallinity of the polymer blends was noted in all formulations, especially when compared to films made only from arrowroot starch or cactus mucilage. This alteration means that the materials have lower stiffness. Water vapor permeability was shown to be lower in the blend with the highest starch concentration. The films with a 75/25 ST/MU formulation exhibited higher elongation at break values, while no significant changes in tensile strength were observed when compared to other concentrations, except for the pure ST films, which showed lower tensile strength and greater elongation at break. For the thermogravimetric analysis, comparing between the blends, an increase in thermal stability was perceived for the formulation ST/MU 75/25. Based on these results, the evaluated blends show potential for use as food packaging in short‐term applications.

Highlights

Development of arrowroot starch blends and cactus mucilage.

Polymer blends showed lower crystallinity values.

Increased starch concentration reduced water vapor permeability.

The ST/MU 75/25 blend had better tensile strength and specific deformation.

Starch addition improved thermal stability in blend formulations.
Conjugated polymer‐reinforced cellulosic frameworks: a promising approach for flexible electronics
Authors: Thapa Yub Narayan , Rajchal Bimal , Karki Deepshikha , Tamang Sonam , Staudinger Ulrike , Kafle Bhim Prasad , Adhikari Rameshwar
Published: February 2025

Flexible electronics are seamlessly integrated into our lives, from foldable displays to smart wearables, redefining our interaction with technology. The use of metals and semiconductors in these flexible devices is limited due to their poor bendability and stretchability. Consequently, integrating conjugated polymers (CPs) into a cellulosic framework has emerged as a promising approach for advancing flexible electronics. Cellulose, as an abundant and sustainable biopolymer, offers a compelling solution to the escalating global e‐waste crisis by providing a cost‐effective and biodegradable substrate. This synergy has the potential to address environmental concerns and unlock new avenues of flexible, eco‐friendly and sustainable electronic devices. Herein the unique properties and synthesis routes of CPs are briefly introduced including their opportunities and challenges. The review discusses a facile and efficient approach to circumvent the challenges of CPs using cellulose as a substrate. The review explores fabrication approaches of CP–cellulose composites aimed at enhancing mechanical, electrical and optical properties. Through a critical examination of recent studies and advancements, it highlights how CPs reinforce the cellulose framework and investigates their structure–property relationships, which are crucial for tailoring the properties for desired applications. Finally, the review presents an outlook on potential challenges and prospects for advancing CP‐based cellulose composites in flexible electronics. © 2025 Society of Chemical Industry.
How to Alleviate Students' Academic Burnout? Using Latent Profile Analysis and Network Analysis to Explore the Positive Impact of School Climate and Achievement Goal Orientation
Authors: Xue Shengping , Lu Aitao , Chen Wanyi , Liang Yueer , Li Xiaoya , Liu Wantang , Zhu Yanxuan , Wang Xiating , Zeng Shan
Published: February 2025

Academic burnout, triggered by a combination of external factors and internal psychological characteristics, significantly impacts secondary school students' academic performance and psychological well‐being. We use achievement goal orientations, including mastery approach, mastery avoidance, performance approach, and performance avoidance, to identify distinct motivational profiles, in 1137 middle school students. Subsequently, we used regression mixed models and network analysis to examine between‐subgroup differences in the relationship between school climate, an external factor, and academic burnout. Latent profile analysis (LPA) revealed three typical patterns of goal pursuit: success‐oriented (17.8%), characterized by motivation across various goals; moderated motivation (70%), lacking a salient dominant goal and clear motivational tendency; and unmotivated (12.8%), showing a lack of interest and motivation in learning. Among the success‐oriented subgroup, academic burnout was most strongly associated with campus climate. Network comparison results showed stronger links between “student‐student support” and “exhaustion,” as well as “autonomy” and “efficacy reduction,” among students in the success‐oriented subgroup compared to those in the unmotivated subgroup. Therefore, educational or counseling programs should be developed, tailored to different goal‐seeking models and the specific school climate.
Neutrinoloser Doppelbetazerfall: Der Gral der Neutrinophysik
Authors: Schwingenheuer Bernhard
Published: February 2025

Neutrinos sind besondere Teilchen, deren Eigenschaften uns viel über das Standardmodell der Teilchenphysik und die Geschichte des Universums sagen können. Auch nach siebzig Jahren sind wichtige Eigenschaften wie ihre Masse und Natur ungeklärt. So ist es noch eine offene Frage, ob sie Majorana‐Teilchen sind oder nicht. Zu den vier bisherigen Nobelpreisen zur Neutrinoforschung werden vermutlich noch weitere hinzukommen.
The Anticonvulsant Effect of Nonsteroidal Anti‐Inflammatory Drug, Fenoprofen, in Pentylenetetrazole‐Induced Epileptic Rats: Behavioral, Histological, and Biochemical Evidence
Authors: Rahimi‐Tesiye Maryam , Rajabi‐Maham Hassan , Azizi Vahid , Hosseini Abdolkarim
Published: February 2025

This study aimed to evaluate the anticonvulsant properties of fenoprofen on the experimental model of pentylenetetrazole (PTZ)‐induced epilepsy. Male Wistar rats were randomly grouped into five, and the kindling model was induced by intraperitoneal injection of PTZ 35 (mg/kg) every other day for 1 month. Aside from the control and PTZ groups, three groups received intraperitoneal injections of fenoprofen at doses of 10, 20, and 40 (mg/kg) before each PTZ injection. Rats were challenged with PTZ 70 (mg/kg) 1 week after kindling development. Then rats were subjected to deep anesthesia, and serum and brain samples were prepared. Oxidative stress (OS) markers (malondialdehyde, superoxide dismutase, and glutathione peroxidase) were measured in serum samples. Hippocampal tissue was used to investigate the relative expression of OS‐related genes (nuclear factor [erythroid‐derived 2]‐like 2 (Nrf2)/heme oxygenase 1 (Hmox1)) and histological studies. Seizure behavior was assessed based on Lüttjohann's score. In treated groups, the number of myoclonic jerks and generalized tonic–clonic seizure (GTCS) duration decreased significantly, while myoclonic jerks and GTCS latency increased compared with the PTZ group. The biochemical evaluation revealed the antioxidative effects of fenoprofen. The decreased expression of Nrf2/HO‐1 genes in the PTZ group was reversed after fenoprofen administration. The results of the histological study obtained from Nissl staining in the hippocampal tissue also confirmed the protective effect of fenoprofen. The anticonvulsant effects of fenoprofen seem to be through inhibition of OS‐related markers, induction of protective effect in hippocampal tissue, and activation of the Nrf2/HO‐1 signaling pathway.
Novel phytotoxic compounds from Streptomyces sp. Caat 7–52: a potential bioherbicide against Conyza canadensis
Authors: Junior Osvaldo Luiz Ferreira , Oliveira Raquel Dias , Ferreira Henrique RGM , Boni Eduardo Defendi , Melo Itamar Soares , Moraes Luiz Alberto Beraldo , Souza Danilo Tosta
Published: February 2025

BACKGROUND

The rise of herbicide‐resistant weeds like Conyza canadensis L. poses a challenge to modern agriculture, driving the need for eco‐friendly alternatives. Microbial metabolites from actinobacteria species offer promising weed‐control solutions. This study aims to screen and identify an actinobacteria isolate from Brazil's Caatinga biome that produces phytotoxic metabolites and to characterize its compounds.

RESULTS

An isolate, named as Caat 7–52, was selected because of its significant phytotoxic effects against Lemna minor L. Phylogenetic analyses using six concatenated genes (gyrB, recA, rpoB, trpB, atpD and 16S rRNA) confirmed Caat 7–52's close relationship to Streptomyces musisoli TBRC 9950T, despite phenotypical differences. Bioassay‐directed isolation against L. minor revealed 3‐hydroxybenzoic acid and albocycline as phytotoxins, with minimum inhibitory concentrations of 50.00 and 3.12 μg mL−1, respectively. Albocycline analogues were also detected and exhibited moderate phytotoxicity in L. minor. In addition, albocycline effectively inhibited the seed germination of C. canadensis with a minimum inhibitory concentration of 6.25 μg mL−1, marking the first report of albocycline's phytotoxic activity. Direct use of the fermented broth selectively inhibited dicot weeds, offering a sustainable and solvent‐free weed management strategy.

CONCLUSION

The discovery of Streptomyces sp. Caat 7–52 and its metabolites, combined with the direct application of fermented broth, represents a significant advancement in sustainable weed control. This bioherbicidal approach offers an environmentally friendly alternative for managing resistant weeds like C. canadensis and supports the broader use of microbial metabolites in integrated pest management programs. © 2025 Society of Chemical Industry.
Development of recombinase polymerase amplification combined with a lateral flow dipstick assay for rapid and simple detection of Tylenchulus semipenetrans in soil
Authors: Song Zhiqiang , Cheng Yi , Wang Tuhong , Wang Qipei , Qiu Caisheng , Qiu Huajiao
Published: February 2025

BACKGROUND

Tylenchulus semipenetrans, the causal agent of citrus slow decline disease, is one of the most destructive plant‐parasitic nematodes in all citrus‐growing regions of the world, causing significant reductions in citrus growth and yield. Accurate and rapid detection of T. semipenetrans is critical for the diagnosis and effective control of the disease.

RESULTS

We developed a rapid, visual, isothermal detection method using recombinase polymerase amplification combined with a lateral flow dipstick (RPA‐LFD) assay to detect T. semipenetrans in soil. The primers and a probe were designed based on sequence differences in the internal transcribed spacer region 1 (ITS1) of ribosomal DNA (rDNA) among T. semipenetrans and four other Tylenchulus species. The RPA reaction can be performed in 10–25 min at a constant temperature ranging from 30 to 45 °C, and the result can be read directly on the LFD within 3 min. Under the optimized conditions, the RPA‐LFD assay could specifically detect T. semipenetrans with a sensitivity as low as 10−2 second‐stage juveniles/0.5 g soil, which was 10‐fold more sensitive than that of the conventional PCR assay. Furthermore, we combined a soil DNA extraction method with the RPA‐LFD assay to achieve simple and rapid detection of T. semipenetrans in natural field soil samples within 1 h.

CONCLUSION

The developed RPA‐LFD assay is a simple, rapid, specific, sensitive and visual method for detecting T. semipenetrans. It shows great potential for on‐site rapid detection applications, especially in resource‐limited settings. © 2025 Society of Chemical Industry.
Assessment of Phage‐Displayed Peptides Targeting Cancer Cell Surface Proteins: A Comprehensive Molecular Docking Study
Authors: Quilumba‐Dutan Verónica , Carreón‐Álvarez Clara , Sanabria‐Ayala Víctor , Hidalgo‐Figueroa Sergio , Chakraborty Swaroop , Valsami‐Jones Eugenia , López‐Revilla Rubén , Rodríguez‐López José Luis
Published: February 2025

Peptides binding overexpressed breast and cervical cancer cell surface proteins can be isolated by phage display technology, and their affinity to their potential receptors can be assessed by molecular docking. We isolated 44 phage clones displaying dodecapeptides with high affinity to HeLa cervical cancer and MDA‐MB‐231 (MDA) breast cancer cells by repeated biopanning of an MK13 phage library and explored their affinity to specific proteins by molecular docking. Six peptides appeared repeatedly during biopanning: two with affinity to HeLa (H5/H21), and four with affinity to MDA cells (M3/M7/M15/M17). Peptide pairs M3/H5 and H1/M17 had affinity to both cell lines. A systematic review identified Annexin A2, EGFR, CD44, CD146, and Integrin alpha V as potential protein targets in HeLa cells, and Vimentin, Galectin‐1, and Annexins A1 and A5 in MDA cells. Via virtual screening, we selected six peptides with the highest total docking scores: H1 (−916.32), H6 (−979.21), H19 (−1093.24), M6 (−732.21), M16 (−745.5), and M19 (−739.64), and identified that docking scores were strengthened by the protein type, the interacting amino acid side chains, and the polarity of peptides. This approach facilitates the selection of relevant peptides that could be further explored for active targeting in cancer diagnosis and treatment.
Nondestructive TVB‐N Detection in Packaged Beef Using Hyperspectral Imaging
Authors: Zhang Wenxiang , Pan Liao , Cheng Xueyu , Lu Lixin
Published: February 2025

Hyperspectral imaging (HSI) technology has shown potential in monitoring fresh meat. It is necessary to investigate the rapid detection technology of packaged fresh meat in order to ensure food quality and safety. In this study, hyperspectral images of beef in the presence of packaging film were collected, and the spectra were optimized using spectral pretreatment, band selection and film radiation correction methods to predict the total volatile basic nitrogen (TVB‐N) of beef in the presence of packaging film. The results of the competitive adaptive reweighted sampling (CARS) combined with least squares support vector machines (CARS‐LSSVM) model constructed by using the corrected reflectance spectra were  = 0.8687, RMSEP = 3.1970 mg/100 g, which is higher than that obtained before the correction ( was 0.8168, and RMSEP was 3.0449 mg/100 g). The results reveal that HSI with radiation correction has the potential in monitoring the TVB‐N content of beef through packaging film.
MoWe: Motion Observation for Wind Estimation of Sailing Robots
Authors: Sun Qinbo , Qi Weimin , Qian Huihuan
Published: February 2025

Toward sustained mobility in complex marine environment, there is an urgent need for sailing robots to operate robustly when wind measurements are unavailable (e.g., wind sensors are damaged). This study proposes an effective motion observation‐based wind estimation (MoWe) scheme, which enables the robotic sailboat to consistently acquire wind information from its own maneuvers. MoWe incorporates motion analysis (MA) and data‐driven (DD) methods. In the MA method, dead zone constraints of the robotic sailboat are identified as crucial references in deriving wind direction. For the DD approach, the sailing robot as shown in Figure 1 is employed to collect a data set, which serves as the basis for regressing an estimator. We conducted extensive validation tests in both simulation and experiments. Results indicate favorable performance for both methods in simulated scenarios. Notably, the DD method exhibited higher estimation accuracy in all experiments. The mean absolute error (MAE) of estimated wind direction was 4.25°, with the range of confidence interval spanning from 25.13° to 33.56°, demonstrating the robustness of the DD method. Furthermore, the estimation of wind direction has been successfully applied in straight‐line sailing tests, and the wind magnitude has been estimated. The MAE of wind magnitude estimation was 1.13m/s.