bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Chemical Synthesis of Activity‐Based Ubiquitin Probes for Profiling Arabidopsis thaliana Deubiquitinases
Authors: Guo Yanyan , Hua Xiao , Han Xiaona , Li Pincheng , Li Yi‐Ming , Shi Jing
Published: February 2025

Abnormalities in deubiquitinating enzymes (DUBs) activity can lead to growth defects and reduced ability to respond to environmental stress in Arabidopsis thaliana (A. thaliana). However, there is currently a lack of adequate tools to profile active DUBs in plants such as A. thaliana. Here, we developed Ub ABPs that could be efficiently prepared to label A. thaliana DUBs. A total of 7 DUBs in plant lysates were labelled and identified in combination with label‐free quantification (LFQ) mass spectrometry. This work demonstrated the universality of ABP tools in plants and mammals.
An Efficient MEMS Microelectrode Array with Reliable Interelectrode Insulation Processes for In Vivo Neural Recording
Authors: Xu Qingda , Wang Longchun , Xi Ye , Ruan Tao , Cao Jiawei , Xu Mengfei , Zheng Kunyu , Du Zhiyuan , Wei Ning , Wang Xiaolin , Yang Bin , Liu Jingquan
Published: February 2025

Microelectrode arrays, particularly Utah arrays, offer irreplaceable advantages in clinical applications and play a crucial role in advancing brain‐computer interactions. However, the glass‐fused monolithic structure of Utah arrays limits functional expansion, and the glass insulation process is complex, costly, and time‐intensive. This paper presents a microelectrode array with a simple and time‐saving fabrication process, utilizing low‐resistance silicon and borosilicate glass wafers as electrodes and insulation substrates, respectively. The utilization of the anodic bonding process improves production efficiency and enhances process compatibility. A one‐step static wet etching process is used to form microneedle morphology to further simplify the fabrication process. Sputtered iridium oxide, as the electrode interface material, significantly reduces electrochemical impedance, and cellular experiments have confirmed its non‐cytotoxicity. Moreover, the implantation into the primary visual cortex of mice has demonstrated the ability of the electrode to record in vivo electrical signals within 15 days. Movement trajectory experiments demonstrate that the mice exhibit good behavior activities following electrode implantation. The bonded microelectrode array (BMEA) presented in this work provides a universal and effective tool for neural recording, with prospective applications in multi‐physiological monitoring and microelectromechanical system integration.
Efficient SWIR Organic Photodetectors with Spectral Detection Extending to 1.4 µm Using a Benzobisthiadiazole‐Based Acceptor
Authors: Cong Jiawen , Huang Zhi‐Hao , Liu Shun‐Wei , Luo Zhenghui , Liu Fu‐Zong , Chen Zhanxiang , Lee Kun‐Mu , Huang Yu‐Ching , Yang Chuluo
Published: February 2025

Organic photodetectors (OPDs) offer significant advantages in biomedical applications, including medical imaging, heart rate monitoring, and tumor therapy. Despite advancements in OPD technology, the efficiency of these devices in the short‐wave infrared (SWIR) region remains considerably lower than that of inorganic semiconductors. To tackle this challenge, this study developed an ultra‐narrow bandgap acceptor of CS‐1, featuring an A‐D‐A1‐D‐A structure where benzobisthiadiazole (BBT) serves as the electron‐deficient unit A1, which exhibits a wide absorption range from 300 to 1550 nm. This molecular design not only enhances the absorption properties of the material but also improves the overall performance of the OPD device. It is worth noting that the optimal PTB7‐Th:CS‐1 device realizes a specific detectivity (Dn*) of 2.96 × 1010 Jones at 1.30 µm, making it one of the most efficient devices at this wavelength to date. Additionally, it demonstrates the high linear dynamic range (LDR) of 91.9 dB even at 1300 nm. These results indicate that the PTB7‐Th:CS‐1 device significantly enhances detection efficiency in the SWIR region, surpassing most commercially available silicon‐based photodetectors. This highlights the significant potential of the BBT unit for achieving high‐performance SWIR OPDs.
Creating Bridged‐H* Bond Structure for Boosting Electrocatalytic Hydrogen Evolution via Phosphorus‐Doped Iridium Nanosheets
Authors: Guo Ruiqi , Wang Shujuan , Sheng Minqi , Zou Xingli , Zhang Mingzhi , Li Guangcheng , Cao Yi , Fan Zhenglong , Chen Jinxin , Zhu Wenxiang , Liao Fan , Ling Tianjiao , Ren Hao , Lv Fan , Kang Zhenhui
Published: February 2025

Iridium (Ir) is recognized to have extremely high catalytic activity in the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). However, there are still technical challenges in maximizing the utilization of Ir atoms in the catalytic reaction process through dimensional regulation strategies. Herein, an innovative strategy is utilized to fabricate porous phosphorus‐doped iridium (P‐Ir) with a 2D structure, specifically the reduction of 1T phase‐IrO2 (1T‐IrO2) nanosheets using phosphine gas. The optimized P‐Ir achieves an overpotential of 17.2 mV (vs RHE without iR‐correction) in 0.5 m H2SO4 during the HER process, outperforming benchmark Pt/C (27.0 mV) and most reported Ir‐based electrocatalysts. During the long‐term stability tests, P‐Ir maintains stable operation for more than 100 h at both −10 and −100 mA cm−2, respectively. Moreover, the HER activity and transient potential scanning results of Ir‐based phosphides prove that doping P atoms in the Ir lattice promotes the reaction kinetic rate and charge transport capacity during hydrogen evolution. Theoretical calculations reveal that P atoms doping weakens the adsorption energy of H intermediates (H*) by regulating the d‐band center of the Ir sites. Simultaneously, the desorption process of H* is also facilitated by forming a special bridged‐H* bond structure, eventually accelerating the HER kinetics.
On‐Origami Molecular Crowding Control of G‐Quadruplex DNAzymes
Authors: Yang Bei , Wang Rujie , Li Weiying , Wang Jianbang , Liu Huajie
Published: February 2025

The proper crowding of biomacromolecules in cytoplasm and on cell surfaces plays a critical role in cell morphology and metabolism regulations. It is also important to optimize the crowding of target molecules at optimal density on artificial interfaces to perform the best activities, which remains a challenge. Here, DNA origami is employed as a precise template to regulate the placing density and crowding of a model DNAzyme, the G‐quadruplex (G4)‐hemin complex, achieving high catalytic efficiency at moderate crowding. As crowding increases, DNAzyme is susceptible to inactivation, leading to a decrease in catalytic performance. As the location template, DNA origami is shown to be an isotropic scaffold and can be constructed to form nanoenzyme ensembles with variable catalytic efficiencies under moderately crowded conditions. DNA origami and G4‐hemin DNAzyme are utilized to design a mechanochemical sensor and accomplish the detection of the disease target Human Papillomavirus (HPV)‐16 DNA fragment.
Introduction
Authors: Muff Fabian
Published: February 2025

This chapter is structured as follows: Sect. 1.1 describes the background and motivation for this work, followed by the research objectives and research questions associated with this dissertation (Sect. 1.2). Section 1.3 explains the details of the research methodology that was used during the course of the research. Finally, Sects. 1.4 and 1.5 describe the structure of the book, and the intermediary published works related to it.
From the AI White Paper of the European Commission to the Draft ‘AI-Act’—Contours of a Legal Framework for AI in Statu Nascendi
Authors: Olmos-Giupponi Belen , Hofmeister Hannes
Published: February 2025

This article first provides an overview of the Commission’s ‘AI White Paper’. Having done so, the need for a comprehensive AI legal framework will be discussed in more detail and then the contours of such a framework pursuant to the White Paper will be outlined. This article then focuses on the implementation of the White Paper by the draft ‘AI Act’ of April 2021. This draft is a legal novelty as it constitutes the first concrete approach for regulating AI worldwide.The main features of this ‘Act’ are briefly presented and then subjected to a critical analysis.
Light in the shadows: primordial black holes making dark matter shine
Authors: Agashe Kaustubh , Buen-Abad Manuel A. , Chang Jae Hyeok , Clark Steven J. , Dutta Bhaskar , Tsai Yuhsin , Xu Tao
Published: February 2025

Abstract

We consider the possibility of indirect detection of dark sector processes by investigating a novel form of interaction between ambient dark matter (DM) and primordial black holes (PBHs). The basic scenario we envisage is that the ambient DM is “dormant”, i.e., it has interactions with the SM, but its potential for an associated SM signal is not realized for various reasons. We argue that the presence of PBHs with active Hawking radiation (independent of any DM considerations) can act as a catalyst in this regard by overcoming the aforementioned bottlenecks. The central point is that PBHs radiate all types of particles, whether in the standard model (SM) or beyond (BSM), which have a mass at or below their Hawking temperature. The emission of such radiation is “democratic” (up to the particle spin), since it is based on a coupling of sorts of gravitational origin. In particular, such shining of (possibly dark sector) particles onto ambient DM can then activate the latter into giving potentially observable SM signals. We illustrate this general mechanism with two specific models. First, we consider asymmetric DM, which is characterized by an absence of ambient anti-DM, and consequently the absence of DM indirect detection signals. In this case, PBHs can “resurrect” such a signal by radiating anti-DM, which then annihilates with ambient DM in order to give SM particles such as photons. In our second example, we consider the PBH emission of dark gauge bosons which can excite ambient DM into a heavier state (which is, again, not ambient otherwise), this heavier state later decays back into DM and photons. Finally, we demonstrate that we can obtain observable signals of these BSM models from asteroid-mass PBHs (Hawking radiating currently with ~

$$ \mathcal{O}\left(\textrm{MeV}\right) $$

O

MeV

temperatures) at gamma-ray experiments such as AMEGO-X.
Three-dimensional imaging of pion using lattice QCD: generalized parton distributions
Authors: Ding Heng-Tong , Gao Xiang , Mukherjee Swagato , Petreczky Peter , Shi Qi , Syritsyn Sergey , Zhao Yong
Published: February 2025

Abstract

In this work, we report a lattice calculation of x-dependent valence pion generalized parton distributions (GPDs) at zero skewness with multiple values of the momentum transfer −t. The calculations are based on an N

f
= 2 + 1 gauge ensemble of highly improved staggered quarks with Wilson-Clover valence fermion. The lattice spacing is 0.04 fm, and the pion valence mass is tuned to be 300 MeV. We determine the Lorentz-invariant amplitudes of the quasi-GPD matrix elements for both symmetric and asymmetric momenta transfers with similar values and show the equivalence of both frames. Then, focusing on the asymmetric frame, we utilize a hybrid scheme to renormalize the quasi-GPD matrix elements obtained from the lattice calculations. After the Fourier transforms, the quasi-GPDs are then matched to the light-cone GPDs within the framework of large momentum effective theory with improved matching, including the next-to-next-to-leading order perturbative corrections, and leading renormalon and renormalization group resummations. We also present the 3-dimensional image of the pion in impact-parameter space through the Fourier transform of the momentum transfer −t.
Non-BPS branes and continuous symmetries
Authors: Bergman Oren , Garcia-Valdecasas Eduardo , Mignosa Francesco , Rodriguez-Gomez Diego
Published: February 2025

Abstract

We propose a holographic description of the operators implementing U(1) global symmetries that are dual to superstring gauge fields in terms of non-BPS D-branes. We check the consistency of our proposal in a number of examples.
Impact of the electroweak Weinberg operator on the electric dipole moment of electron
Authors: Banno Tatsuya , Hisano Junji , Kitahara Teppei , Ogawa Kiyoto , Osamura Naohiro
Published: February 2025

Abstract

Recent progress in the electric dipole moment (EDM) measurements of the electron using the paramagnetic atom or molecule is remarkable. In this paper, we calculate a contribution to the electron EDM at three-loop level, introducing the CP-violating Yukawa couplings of new SU(2)
L
multiplets. At two-loop level, the Yukawa interactions generate a CP-violating dimension-six operator, composed of three SU(2)
L
field strengths, called the electroweak-Weinberg operator. Another one-loop diagram with this operator inserted induces the electron EDM. We derive the matching condition and find that even if new SU(2)
L
particles have masses around the TeV scale, the electron EDM may be larger than the Standard Model (SM) contribution to the paramagnetic atom or molecule EDMs. We also discuss the relation between the Barr-Zee diagram contribution at two-loop level and three-loop one, assuming that the SM Higgs has new Yukawa interactions with the SU(2)
L
multiplets.
Denjoy–Carleman Microlocal Regularity on Smooth Real Submanifolds of Complex Spaces
Authors: Braun Rodrigues Nicholas , da Silva Antonio Victor
Published: February 2025

We prove the existence of approximate solutions in the regular Denjoy–Carleman sense for some systems of smooth pairwise commuting complex vector fields. Such approximate solutions provide a well-defined notion of Denjoy–Carleman wave front set of distributions on

$$\mathcal {C}^\infty $$

C

∞

-smooth maximally real submanifolds in complex space which can be characterized in terms of the decay of a Fourier–Bros–Iagolnitzer transform. We also apply the approximate solutions to analyze the Denjoy–Carleman microlocal regularity of solutions of certain systems of first-order nonlinear partial differential equations.
Riskanter Krankenhausplan – eine Umfrage unter ChefärztInnen in NRW: dramatische Auswirkungen in der Viszeralchirurgie
Authors: Braumann Chris , Meurer Kirsten , Niedergethmann Marco , Bauer Karl-Heinz , Ulrich Alexis , Gebauer Florian , Rijcken Emile , Bultmann Uta , Held Felicitas Giuliana , Schmitz Björn , Hahn Jasmina , Schilling André , Pascher Andreas , Zarras Konstantinos , Uhl Waldemar
Published: February 2025

Hintergrund

Der Krankenhausplan NRW soll im größten deutschen Bundesland die medizinische Qualität und die Effizienz der Gesundheitsversorgung steigern respektive optimieren und könnte als „Blaupause“ für Deutschland dienen. Die Feststellungsbescheide des Landesministeriums für Arbeit, Gesundheit und Soziales (MAGS) für die Leistungsgruppen (LG) wurden den Kliniken zugestellt und die definitive Umsetzung für April 2025 vorgesehen.

Methodik

Insgesamt 254 viszeralchirurgischen ChefärztInnen (CÄ) wurde ein konsentierter Fragebogen zugesandt: Alter, Bettenanzahl, Versorgungsstufen, Leistungsgruppen, Zentralisierung, Spezialisierung, Zertifizierung, Änderung der öffentlichen Wahrnehmung, Weiterbildung und Gefahren für die Weiterbildungsbefugnis wurden ebenso wie Attraktivität des Faches und Nachwuchsthemen abgefragt.

Ergebnisse

Von 254 Bögen wurden 108 rückgesendet (42,5 %). 50 % der CÄ sind von der Notwendigkeit der Reform überzeugt. Jedoch ist 32 % der Kliniken die Zuteilung einer LG trotz bestehender Zertifizierung verwehrt worden. Bei 45 Kliniken (42 %) erfolgte gar keine LG-Zuteilung. Ein Krankenhaus erhielt ohne Antragstellung eine LG. 80 Klinikleitungen können keine sinnvolle politische Strategie im Krankenhausplan erkennen (74 %). 35 % der CÄ sehen keine Verbesserung der Behandlungsqualität durch die Zentralisierung. 59 Leitungen befürchten, dass das öffentliche Ansehen ihrer Klinik verschlechtert wird (55 %). 86 CÄ sehen die derzeitige Weiterbildungsordnung nicht mehr garantiert (80 %). 72 % sehen einen Verlust der Attraktivität des Faches Viszeralchirurgie und 48 % der CÄ machen sich Sorgen um ihre persönliche Zukunft.

Diskussion

Die Reform wird von den Befragten unterstützt – die Methode stößt jedoch auf große Kritik. Zertifizierungen der DKG und DGAV finden keine verlässliche Berücksichtigung und zweifeln demnach Lebens- und Klinikleistungen an. Zudem wird eine differenzierte Auswirkungsanalyse und eine Begleitforschung vermisst (z. B. Kapazitätsengpässe, Personalmangel, Wartezeiten, Krankenhausschließungen). Die Attraktivität des Faches Chirurgie ist wie die Zusatzweiterbildung Spezielle Viszeralchirurgie gefährdet.

Graphic abstract
AI and the visualisation needs of researchers using email archives
Authors: Green Peter
Published: February 2025

Correspondence held in the collections of cultural institutions is an important resource for researchers, including historians, biographers, and social scientists. Email has been the dominant form of correspondence for the last 30 years and email archives are now being acquired by cultural institutions as a valuable resource for their collections. There are challenges in collecting, preserving and providing access to email archives, as with all born-digital materials, but also challenges in using email archives as a researcher. One tool that can help researchers use an email archive is visualisation. Visualisation has been applied to email for a long period of time but there has been little research into the visualisation needs of researchers using email archives. The preliminary outcomes of a research project investigating the needs of researchers suggests that visualisations will be useful to the researcher, who is always under the pressure of limited time, to work efficiently with the email archive. Artificial intelligence (AI) can play a role in preparing the email archive for visualisation. However, the research outcomes suggest that visualisations will be viewed cautiously by researchers who want time with the actual email archive to develop their research and they are unlikely to trust visualisations alone. The use of AI in the production of visualisations has the potential to add further barriers to researchers’ level of trust.
Emerging paradigms in music technology: valuing mistakes, glitches and uncertainty in the age of generative AI and automation
Authors: Loor Paredes Miguel
Published: February 2025

In this article, I discuss the implications of generative AI in future of creative work in the music industries through an ethnographic study of music technologists in Melbourne, Australia. Drawing on visual ethnography methods, I explore how researchers, developers, as well as professional and aspiring artists, across sectors in Melbourne’s ecosystem, value the role of mistakes, glitches and uncertainty in the creative process with music technology. This stands in opposition to the controlled processes within generative AI models, based on the management of uncertainty as an input value. Thus, I reframe the concept of creative uncertainty which emerges as a shaping force in the creative process, and in opposition to the controlled outputs of generative AI. Furthermore, this article shows the limitations and misalignment of dominant visions about the impact of generative AI, on creative workflows and practices, by highlighting the experiences, motivations and expectations of the research participants in this multi-sited ethnography.
The probability of cerebral amyloid angiopathy according to the Simplified Edinburgh CT criteria in a large, unselected lobar intracerebral hemorrhage population
Authors: Hillal Amir , Apostolaki-Hansson Trine , Ramgren Birgitta , Hansen Björn , Norrving Bo , Wassélius Johan , Ullberg Teresa
Published: February 2025

Purpose

Early identification of the underlying cause of intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) is important for treatment and prognosis. This study aims to investigate the association of hematoma volume and other clinical parameters on the distribution of cerebral amyloid angiopathy (CAA) probability according to the simplified Edinburgh CT criteria in a large, unselected intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) population.

Method

Patients with spontaneous ICH residing in Skane county registered with clinical data in the Swedish Stroke Register 2016–2020 were included. Radiological parameters were evaluated using baseline non-contrast CT (NCCT) for categorization according to the simplified Edinburgh CT criteria by the presence of subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) and fingerlike-projections (FLP). Multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to determine factors associated with an increased (intermediate/high) CAA probability.

Results

Of 666 patients with lobar ICH, 190 (29%) had high, 92 (14%) had intermediate, and 384 (58%) had low CAA probability. Patients with increased CAA probability presented more often with decreased level of consciousness, larger hematoma volumes, and higher 90-day mortality. Baseline hematoma volume [10-30 ml (OR = 4.03;95%CI: 2.26–7.19); 30-80 ml (OR = 12.00;95%CI:7.26–22.53); >80 ml (OR = 30.00;95%CI:15.94–59.09)], female sex (OR = 1.58;95%CI:1.08–2.32) and age (OR = 1.04;95%CI:1.02–1.06) were associated with an increased odds of having an increased CAA probability.

Conclusion

We identified a strong association between baseline hematoma volume and an increased probability of CAA in lobar ICH patients on NCCT, indicating that large hematoma volumes alone may contribute to the occurrence of FLP and SAH, and act as a confounder for the simplified Edinburgh CT criteria. Validation against MRI is warranted.
Long-term outcomes of small head metal-on-metal compared to ceramic-on-polyethylene primary total hip arthroplasty: a registry-based cohort study
Authors: Gonzalez Amanda I. , Barea Christophe , Zingg Matthieu , Garavaglia Guido , Peter Robin , Hoffmeyer Pierre , Hannouche Didier , Lübbeke Anne
Published: February 2025

Purpose

We aimed to compare the long-term outcomes of small-head (28 mm) metal-on-metal (MoM) total hip arthroplasty (THA) to ceramic-on-polyethylene (CoP) THA using the same cup.

Methods

All primary elective MoM and CoP THAs performed 1998–2011 were prospectively included in a local registry. Patients were followed until 31 December 2022. Outcomes were all-cause revision, complications and mortality. The uncemented Morscher 28 mm monobloc press-fit cup was used in all THAs.

Results

Overall, 3257 THAs were included, 864 MoM (mean age 63) and 2393 CoP THAs (mean age 72). Mean follow-up of the cohort was 12.9 years (maximum 26.8 years). Revision for any cause was performed in 85 MoM and 79 CoP THAs. Cumulative incidence of all-cause revision at 20 years was 13.2% (95% CI 10.6 to 16.3) in MoM and 6.3% (95% CI 4.8 to 8.3) in CoP group. Adjusted hazard ratio for all-cause revision was 1.88 (95% CI 1.34 to 2.65) comparing MoM vs. CoP. Diagnoses at revision were mainly aseptic loosening (33%) and adverse local tissue reactions (33%) in MoM and aseptic loosening in CoP group (44%). The smoothed hazard function revealed the largest difference in instantaneous revision rate between three and 14 years postoperative. After that period no difference was observed.

Conclusion

Overall, the cumulative risk of all-cause revision was almost twice as high in patients with a small head MoM as compared to a CoP THA over the 20-year period. However, most of the excess in revisions among MoM patients occurred between three and 14 years postoperative.
Fatal intoxications and inherited cardiac disorders in the young: where to draw the line?
Authors: Grassi Simone , Vaiano Fabio , Dimitrova Alexandra , Vullo Chiara , Croce Emma Beatrice , Rossi Riccardo , Arena Vincenzo , Strano Rossi Sabina , Campuzano Oscar , Brugada Ramon , Oliva Antonio
Published: February 2025

Sudden cardiac death represents a significant public health concern and is one of the leading causes of early mortality worldwide. The escalating use of illicit drugs, approximately 269 million people in 2018, represents a growing public health. Some of these drugs are stimulants that may have multiple effects on the cardiovascular system including the cardiac rhythm, then substance abuse increases the risk of sudden death. For instance, drugs like cocaine and methamphetamine, may be responsible for myocardial infarction as well as occlusive coronary thrombosis with acute infarction. The consequences of such occurrences are far-reaching, with considerable effects not only on the victims but also on their families. Sudden cardiac death presents considerable forensic diagnostic challenges, particularly in the presence of high but non-lethal drug levels increasing the possibility of a genetic predisposition to malignant arrhythmogenic events. Our review aims to discuss the complex relationship between illicit drugs and congenital cardiac disorders, stressing the forensic issues deriving from their interaction and from the differential diagnosis. Indeed, especially when a non-lethal dose of illicit drug in presence of ambiguous microscopic findings is reported, being able to discriminate between a toxic sudden death (entailing criminal implications for the drug dealer) and a natural sudden death is a forensic issue of upmost importance.
Roles of efflux pumps and nitroreductases in metronidazole-resistant Trichomonas vaginalis
Authors: Paunkov Ana , Strasser Doris , Huber Philipp , Leitsch David
Published: February 2025

Trichomonas v
aginalis infections significantly impact public health and are associated with increased likelihood of HIV infection, prostate cancer, and pregnancy complications. Current treatment relies almost exclusively on 5-nitroimidazoles, particularly metronidazole, raising concerns about drug resistance and treatment efficacy. This study is aimed at evaluating the effectiveness of metronidazole and tinidazole on metronidazole-resistant strains of T. vaginalis and at determining whether efflux pump inhibitors could reverse metronidazole resistance. Additionally, the roles of nitroreductases in metronidazole resistance were also studied. Metronidazole and tinidazole were tested on both metronidazole-sensitive and -resistant T. vaginalis strains. A checkerboard assay was conducted to assess the potential synergy between metronidazole or tinidazole and efflux pump inhibitors. Nitroreductase activity and ferric iron reduction assays were employed to study the functions of nitroreductases. Tinidazole demonstrated better effectiveness against metronidazole-resistant strains compared to metronidazole, with lower minimal lethal concentration levels. However, the tested efflux pump inhibitors did not significantly enhance the efficacy of metronidazole or tinidazole. Pyrimethamine showed some activity but did not improve the efficacy of the 5-nitroimidazoles in combination. Investigations into the role of nitroreductases and other enzymes in metronidazole resistance revealed no clear downregulation trend in resistant strains. Notably, nitroreductase 8 was capable of reducing ferric iron. While tinidazole remains a viable alternative for treating metronidazole-resistant T. vaginalis, efflux pump inhibitors do not effectively reverse resistance. The identification of nitroreductase’s 8 iron-reducing activity suggests its involvement in metronidazole resistance mechanisms. This finding highlights the need for continued research to develop new treatment strategies and improve the management of trichomoniasis, ultimately reducing its public health burden.
Impact of metal vs non-absorbable, polymer clips during laparoscopic cholecystectomy
Authors: Bartholomew A. J. , Jing C. , Economopoulos K. P. , Sizemore A. , Lim J. , Record S. , Greene S. , Ladowski J. M. , Howell T. C. , Gordee A. , Kuchibhtala M. , Yoo J. , Jain-Spangler K. , Michaels A. D. , Fong P. A. , Greenberg J. A. , Seymour K. A.
Published: February 2025

Background

Titanium metal clips have classically been used to occlude the cystic artery and duct during laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC). Non-absorbable, polymer clips are an alternative with a locking feature. There is limited research evaluating the adoption, safety, and cost of these clips during cholecystectomy.

Methods

A retrospective review was conducted on patients undergoing elective LC from 2017 to 2019. The cohort was divided based on the use of metal or polymer clips. The primary outcome was 30-day emergency department (ED) visit rate. Secondary outcomes included readmission and complications. Surgeon utilization and cost comparison were assessed. Chi square, Wilcoxon rank-sum, and multivariable logistic regression was performed.

Results

1244 patients underwent LC by 38 surgeons, of which 934 (75.1%) utilized metal clips. Thirty-day ED presentation was 8.5%, with a higher rate for the polymer clip group (12.4% vs 7.2%, p = 0.005); 79% of presentations were related to the operation. On adjusted analysis, ED visits were associated with hospital facility and insurance payor. Thirty-day readmission rate was comparable for polymer and metal clips (4.9% vs 3.2%, p = 0.18, respectively). Most surgeons used metal clips (58%) and there was no impact based on fellowship training. Those who preferentially utilized polymer clips had more recently graduated from medical school (p = 0.02) and were more likely to perform intraoperative cholangiograms (p < 0.001). The device cost difference favored polymer clips by $75 per case.

Conclusion

Polymer clips are a safe alternative to metal clips, with a similarly low complication profile. Despite an increase in 30-day ED visit rate in the polymer group, adjusted analysis demonstrated an association with hospital facility and insurance type, and not clip type. Given LC is one of the most commonly performed operations worldwide, the benefit of locking polymer clips should be incorporated into intraoperative decision making.
Levodopa-synergistic CBT intervention improves Parkinson’s disease with anxiety disorder by regulating the BDNF/PI3K/AKT pathway
Authors: Ji Niu , Lu Shujin , Xu Bingchao , Guan Xinying , Xian Zhenping , Geng Deqin , Gao Dianshuai
Published: February 2025

Background

Anxiety disorder is one of the most common and disabling neuropsychiatric syndromes in patients with Parkinson’s disease (PD), seriously affecting the quality of life and prognosis of PD patients.

Objective

The objective of this study was to analyze the risk factors for anxiety in PD patients and to evaluate the effectiveness of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) in treating PD with anxiety disorder (PDAD).

Methods

Baseline data were recorded for 211 PD patients and 139 PDAD patients, and multi-factorial and independent risk factors for anxiety disorder in PD patients were analyzed. ​The 139 PDAD patients were divided into clinical testing (CMO) and CBT groups. Assessments were taken at baseline and after the end of the intervention. A 5-month follow-up survey was conducted after the intervention. The mouse PD model was induced by MPTP, and the anxiety state of mice was detected by rotarod test and open-field test. The expression of BDNF/PI3K/Akt protein in serum and mouse brain was detected by western blot.

Results

PDAD patients had significantly higher HAMA scores than PD patients. PSQI, ESS, HAMD, SCOPA-AUT, UPDRS-III and Hoehn-Yahr were independent risk factors for anxiety disorder in PD patients. After the intervention, the psychological state, cognitive function and quality of life improved in both the CMO and CBT groups, with the CBT group showing better improvement Results from follow-up showed that the number and frequency of falls was lower in the CBT group than in the CMO group, and that patients were more satisfied with the CBT intervention than the CMO group. L-dopa treatment alleviated anxiety in PD mice. L-dopa treatment increased BDNF, p-PI3K, and p-Akt protein levels. Moreover, the combination of L-dopa and CBT enhanced the boosting effect of L-dopa on these proteins.

Conclusion

CBT is an effective treatment for anxiety in patients with Parkinson’s disease. Medications combined with CBT have been shown to be effective in improving depression, anxiety and quality of life in PDAD patients.
Changes in the probability of temporally compound wet and dry events in a warmer world: case study in the Upper Jhelum Basin—South Asia
Authors: Ansari Rubina , Casanueva Ana , Liaqat Muhammad Usman , Grossi Giovanna
Published: February 2025

Temporal compound events (TCEs), such as the consecutive occurrence of two complementary extremes of the hydrological spectrum (floods and droughts), exhibit a volatile hydrological cycle that exacerbate the challenges associated with water resources management. This study makes use of bias-corrected climate models output from three modeling experiments (CMIP6, CORDEX, and CORDEX-CORE), to examine moderate to extreme wet and dry events and their temporal compounding over the Upper Jhelum Basin (UJB), under low, medium, and high emission scenarios for two future periods (2040–2059 and 2080–2099). Standardized Precipitation Evapotranspiration Index (SPEI) is used to quantify the meteorological wet and dry events that are the main driver of the hydrologic floods and droughts. The two types of TCEs considered in the current study are wet-to-dry (W-to-D) events and dry-to-wet (D-to-W) events in the adjacent month. Results indicate that (1) under warming conditions, wet and dry events are expected to become more frequent and severe whereas duration of the events exhibits distinct change signals depending on the specific location. (2) The basin is more prone to D-to-W TCEs dominated in the southwest of the region, which was not found to be hotspot historically neither for dry nor for wet extreme events. (3) CORDEX and CORDEX-CORE ensembles show varying climate change signals with no specific spatial pattern whereas the CMIP6 ensemble shows stronger change signals and divides the region into two distinct parts, i.e., northeast and southwest.
Mesorhizobium salmacidum sp. nov. and Mesorhizobium argentiipisi sp. nov. are symbionts of the dry-land forage legumes Lessertia diffusa and Calobota sericea
Authors: Muema Esther K. , van Lill Melandré , Venter Stephanus N. , Chan Wai Yin , Claassens Ricu , Steenkamp Emma T.
Published: February 2025

Legumes Lessertia diffusa and Calobota sericea, indigenous to South Africa, are commonly used as fodder crops with potential for sustainable livestock pasture production. Rhizobia were isolated from their root nodules grown in their respective soils from the Succulent Karoo biome (SKB) in South Africa, identified and characterized using a polyphasic approach. Sequence analysis of the 16S rRNA gene confirmed all isolates as Mesorhizobium members, which were categorized into two distinct lineages using five housekeeping protein-coding genes. Lineage I included 14 strains from both legumes, while Lineage II comprised a single isolate from C. sericea. Differences in phenotypic traits were observed between the lineages and corroborated by average nucleotide identity analyses. While all strains nodulated their original hosts, strains from C. sericea failed to effectively nodulate L. diffusa and vice versa. Phylogenetic analyses of nitrogen fixation (nifH) and nodulation (nodA, nodC) loci grouped all strains in a single clade, suggesting that unique symbiotic loci determine nodulation of these legumes. We designated Lineage I and II as Mesorhizobium salmacidum sp. nov. (Ld1326Ts; GCA_037179605.1Ts) and Mesorhizobium argentiipisi sp. nov. (Cs1330R2N1Ts; GCA_037179585.1Ts), using genome sequences as nomenclatural types according to the Nomenclatural Code for Prokaryotes using Sequence Data, thus avoiding complications with South Africa's biodiversity regulations. Identifying effective microsymbionts of L. diffusa and C. sericea is essential for conservation of Succulent Karoo Biome, where indigenous invasive species like Vachellia karroo and non-native Australian acacia species are present. Furthermore, targeted management practices using effective symbionts of the studied legumes can sustain the biome's socio-economic contribution through fodder provision.
Anthropization and host habitat influence the abundance of Dermanyssoidea and Trombiculoidea in northwestern Mexico
Authors: Herrera-Mares Angel , Rico-Chávez Oscar , Márquez-Hernández Roberto I. , Fernández-González Adriana M. , Chaves Andrea , Guzmán-Cornejo Carmen , Suzán Gerardo
Published: February 2025

The factors influencing the distribution and abundance of ectoparasites in vertebrates have been thoroughly examined in rodents, particularly concerning ticks and fleas. However, there is a paucity of knowledge regarding mites. The aim of this study was to determine if host or landscape traits are responsible for the abundance of dermanyssoid and trombiculoid mites. Rodent captures were carried out in the northwest region of Mexico between 2018 and 2022 in order to collect mites of the superfamilies Dermanyssoidea and Trombiculoidea. We generated generalized linear models to determine if rodent characteristics or the Index of Relative Anthropization (IRA) contribute to the relative abundance of Dermanyssoidea and Trombiculoidea. The best generalized linear model for Dermanyssoidea suggests that mite abundance is influenced by the IRA and the terrestrial rodent abundance. There is a relationship between the abundance of terrestrial rodents and dermanyssoid mites. Data show that as anthropization increases, Dermanyssoidea abundance decreases. The model shows rodent abundance, and the IRA are key factors in Trombiculoidea abundance. Our findings indicate that trombiculoid mites increase alongside rodents but decline as the IRA increases. This is the first study to use an index to investigate the impact of relative anthropization on Dermanyssoidea and Trombiculoidea in Mexico.
Enhanced code reviews using pull request based change impact analysis
Authors: Göçmen Ismail Sergen , Cezayir Ahmed Salih , Tüzün Eray
Published: February 2025

Context

Code reviewing is an essential yet challenging activity due to the potential repercussions associated with changes to the codebase. While version control highlights differences between versions, it may not adequately alert developers to potential side effects of changes. Change impact analysis alongside code differences can guide reviewers in making informed decisions.

Objective

We aim to enhance the code review process by providing helpful insights to reviewers by analyzing change impact.

Method

We propose a novel change impact analysis approach with the granularity of pull requests by combining call graph-based dependency analysis and history mining techniques. By utilizing these, we calculate several file metrics and an overall risk score for each pull request. To validate the approach, we conducted two focus group sessions, including a feature feedback survey, a tool demo, a post-demo survey, and focus group discussions. Additionally, we performed experiments on three open-source projects to evaluate the computational feasibility.

Results

From the focus groups, our approach received an average of 3.66 out of 5.0 for enhancing the code review experience across five aspects. The current risk score formula averaged 3.2 out of 5.0 for accurately representing change impact, with 71% agreement on the selected metrics. Experiments confirmed computational viability, with analysis times ranging from 7.4 to 22.43 seconds.

Conclusions

Our study underscores the potential benefits of integrating change impact analysis into the code review process. By leveraging this approach, developers can conduct more thorough reviews, enhancing their ability to detect and mitigate potential issues arising from code changes.
Modified Singly-Runge–Kutta-TASE Methods for the Numerical Solution of Stiff Differential Equations
Authors: Calvo M. , Montijano J. I. , Rández L.
Published: February 2025

Singly-TASE operators for the numerical solution of stiff differential equations were proposed by Calvo et al. in J.Sci. Comput. 2023 to reduce the computational cost of Runge–Kutta-TASE (RKTASE) methods when the involved linear systems are solved by some LU factorization. In this paper we propose a modification of these methods to improve the efficiency by considering different TASE operators for each stage of the Runge–Kutta. We prove that the resulting RKTASE methods are equivalent to W-methods (Steihaug and Wolfbrandt, Mathematics of Computation,1979) and this allows us to obtain the order conditions of the proposed Modified Singly-RKTASE (MSRKTASE) methods through the theory developed for the W-methods. We construct new MSRKTASE methods of order two and three and demonstrate their effectiveness through numerical experiments on both linear and nonlinear stiff systems. The results show that the MSRKTASE schemes significantly enhance efficiency and accuracy compared to previous Singly-RKTASE (SRKTASE) schemes.
Bethe algebra using pure spinors
Authors: Ekhammar Simon , Volin Dmytro
Published: February 2025

We explore a

$${\mathfrak {gl}}_{r}$$

gl
r

-covariant parameterisation of Bethe algebra appearing in

$${\mathfrak {so}}_{2r}$$

so

2
r

integrable models, demonstrate its geometric origin from a fused flag, and use it to compute the spectrum of periodic rational spin chains, for various choices of the rank r and Drinfeld polynomials.
Prospectivity Modeling of Devonian Intrusion-Related W–Mo–Sb–Au Deposits in the Pokiok Plutonic Suite, West-Central New Brunswick, Canada, Using a Monte Carlo-Based Framework
Authors: Karbalaeiramezanali Amirabbas , Parsa Mohammad , Lentz David R. , Thorne Kathleen G.
Published: February 2025

The Pokiok Plutonic Suite (PPS) lies within the southern segment of New Brunswick's Central Plutonic Belt, Canada. The PPS exhibits significant Devonian intrusive events, including four main phases, namely the Hartfield Tonalite, the Hawkshaw Granite, the Skiff Lake Granite, and the Allandale Granite, hosting notable intrusion-related W–Mo–Sb–Au deposits. This study aimed to identify potential exploration targets for intrusion-related W–Mo–Sb–Au deposits using knowledge-driven mineral prospectivity mapping (MPM) techniques. Model- and judgment-related uncertainties undermine the reliability of knowledge-driven MPM. This study adopted a multifaceted approach, combining the mineral systems approach, parsimonious weighting methods, Monte Carlo simulation (MCS), and a risk–return analysis, to mitigate the effects of these uncertainties on MPM. We employed three multi-criteria decision-making systems, namely MCS-based Best Worst Method (BWM) with Measurement Alternatives and Ranking according to the Compromise Solution (MARCOS) (MCS–BWM–MARCOS), MCS-based Full Consistency Method (FUCOM) with MARCOS (MCS–FUCOM–MARCOS), and MCS-based Level Based Weight Assessment (LBWA) with MARCOS (MCS–LBWA–MARCOS), for MPM, with MCS–LBWA–MARCOS exhibiting the highest accuracy. The risk–return analysis was employed to interpret the results of our models. Low-risk, high-return cells reduced the search space for mineral exploration by ~ 15%, while predicting ~ 73% of the known intrusion-related W–Mo–Sb–Au occurrences. The methodology applied herein allows for a more confident selection of exploration targets using knowledge-driven MPM.
Broadband vibration energy harvesting using nonlinear multi degree-of-freedom mechanical filters
Authors: Song Kailing , Bonnin Michele , Traversa Fabio L. , Bonani Fabrizio
Published: February 2025

We introduce the model of a networked energy harvester for random ambient vibrations, made of mechanically coupled oscillators. The networked harvester is equivalent to a mechanical filter, and it can be modeled as a chain of masses, coupled pairwise by nonlinear elastic springs. Ambient mechanical vibrations are modeled as a low-pass filtered white Gaussian noise, and a piezoelectric transducer is used to convert mechanical kinetic energy into electrical energy. We derive the nonlinear equations of motion for the harvester, together with formulas for the average harvested power and power efficiency. An approximate analytical solution is presented and compared with numerical simulations. Finally, we discuss the optimization of the networked harvester, based on a gradient ascent algorithm combined with Nesterov’s momentum method. We show that, after proper optimization, the mechanically coupled energy harvester scavenges more power than a single mass-spring energy harvester.
In-vitro Evaluation of Solution Pressurised Metered Dose Inhaler Sprays with Low-GWP Propellants
Authors: Duke Daniel J. , Rao Lingzhe , Myatt Benjamin , Cocks Phil , Stein Stephen , Marasini Nirmal , Ong Hui Xin , Young Paul
Published: February 2025

Purpose

The transition from high Global Warming Potential (GWP) propellants such as HFA134a to low-GWP alternatives such as HFA152a and HFO1234ze(E) in pressurised metered dose inhalers (pMDIs) poses a number of challenges for inhaled pharmaceutical product development. Changes in chemicophysical properties will alter product performance, impacting in-vitro bioequivalence metrics. This study investigates those differences using equivalent pMDI hardware and formulations.

Methods

Aerodynamic particle size distribution (APSD) measurements, laser diffraction and high-speed imaging were used to compare the performance of HFA134a, HFA152a and HFO1234ze(E) solution formulations of beclomethasone dipropionate. Propellant-only placebos, cosolvent-free solutions, and ethanol solutions at 8% and 15% w/w were investigated.

Results

HFA152a formulations had increased drug deposition on the actuator and throat while HFO1234ze(E) produced comparable APSD performance to HFA134a formulations. Plumes from HFA152a formulations spread more rapidly and were less stable and repeatable than those from HFA134a. HFO1234ze(E) plumes spread more slowly than HFA134a, but converged with HFA134a ex-mouthpiece. Differences between propellants were moderated by the addition of ethanol.

Conclusion

Plume stability is a driver of differences between formulations in the near-orifice region. Shot-to-shot repeatability differences are more pronounced ex-mouthpiece, where mixing with ambient air is dominant. Modifications to low-GWP pMDI product actuator orifice and mouthpiece geometries may provide a route to improved in-vitro product bioequivalence relative to current pMDIs. Differences between formulations are modest and may be managed through a combination of formulation, orifice and mouthpiece geometry changes. These generic formulations provide a database of benchmark data against which the performance of low-GWP products may be compared.