bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
New Brusatol Derivatives as Anti-Settlement Agents Against Barnacles, Targeting HSP90: Design, Synthesis, Biological Evaluation, and Molecular Docking Investigations
Authors: Jiang Wang , Luan Tongtong , Cao Pei , Ma Zhonghui , Su Zhiwei
Published: January 2025

The increasing challenge of marine biofouling, mainly due to barnacle settlement, necessitates the development of effective antifoulants with minimal environmental toxicity. In this study, fifteen derivatives of brusatol were synthesized and characterized using 13C-NMR, 1H-NMR, and mass spectrometry. All the semi-synthesized compounds obtained using the Multi-Target-Directed Ligand (MTDL) strategy, when evaluated as anti-settlement agents against barnacles, showed promising activity. Compound 3 exhibited the highest anti-settlement capacity, with an EC50 value of 0.1475 μg/mL, an LC50/EC50 ratio of 42.2922 (>15 indicating low toxicity), and a resuscitation rate of 71.11%, while it showed no significant phenotypic differences in the zebrafish embryos after treatment for 48 h. The toxicity screening of zebrafish also demonstrated the low ecotoxicity of the selected compounds. Furthermore, homology modeling of the HSP90 structure was performed based on related protein sequences in barnacles. Subsequently, molecular docking studies were conducted on HSP90 using these newly synthesized derivatives. Molecular docking analyses showed that most activated derivatives displayed low binding energies with HSP90, aligning well with the biological results. They were found to interact with key residues in the binding site, specifically ARG243, TYR101, and LEU73. These computational findings are anticipated to aid in predicting the enzyme targets of the tested inhibitors and their potential interactions, thus facilitating the design of novel antifoulants in future research endeavors.
High-Performance Polyolefin Material: Synthesis, Properties, and Application of Poly(4-Methyl-1-pentene)
Authors: Tu Guangshui , Zheng Handou , Yang Jiahao , Zhou Haotian , Feng Chunyu , Gao Haiyang
Published: January 2025

As a kind of high-performance thermoplastic crystalline resin, poly(4-methyl-1-pentene) (PMP) is characterized by its low density, low dielectric constant, exceptional mechanical and chemical properties, high transparency, and gas permeability. PMP has recently received more attention since COVID-19, because it is used as a hollow-fiber membrane for extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) based on its high permeability and excellent biocompatibility. This review summarizes the chemical structure, synthesis, properties, and application of PMP. The advancements in catalyst systems for the catalytic synthesis of PMP, including Ziegler–Natta, metallocene, post-metallocene, and late-transition metal catalysts are emphasized. Furthermore, the molecular chain structure, helical conformation, and crystallization morphology of PMP, as well as its properties and applications, are also introduced in detail. Additionally, PMP composites and functional PMP materials are also described as promising and high-performance materials.
Transcriptomics and Plant Hormone Analysis Reveal the Mechanism of Branching Angle Formation in Tea Plants (Camellia sinensis)
Authors: Zhu Jinping , Li Xiaoman , Huang Jianyan , Wang Lu , Zheng Qinghua , Li Hanjia , Chen Yao , Tang Junwei , Hao Xinyuan , Wang Xinchao , Huang Youyi , Zeng Jianming
Published: January 2025

The branching angle of tea plants is a key factor in determining their branching structure, which significantly affects yield, suitability for mechanical harvesting, and overall plant architecture. However, the mechanisms underlying branching angle formation in tea plants remain unclear. In this study, we explored the mechanism of branching angle formation in tea plants by analysing the transcriptome and plant hormone levels of tea plant cultivars with different branching angles. The results indicated that gibberellin positively regulates the branching angle of tea plants, cytokinins, auxin, and abscisic acid involved in the formation of branching angles in tea plants. The transcriptome analysis revealed that candidate regulatory factors, including plant-hormone-related genes (the gibberellin synthesis gene GA3ox1 and metabolism gene GA2ox1; the cytokinin metabolism genes CKX and UGT; the auxin signal transduction-related gene LAX3; and the abscisic acid signal transduction gene PYL4), genes regulating cell division and growth (LAZY1, TAC1, and MAX1), and transcription factors (MYBs, WRKYs, TCPs, AP2/ERFs, and MADS-box), are involved in the formation of branching angles in tea plants. These results offer insights into the mechanism of branching angle formation in tea plants, providing important theoretical reference for the selection and breeding of tea cultivars suitable for mechanical harvesting, thereby improving agricultural efficiency and sustainability.
Soluble Herpes Virus Entry Mediator and Type II/III Interferons Are Upregulated in Primary Biliary Cholangitis
Authors: Chung Yooyun , Tsou Hio Lam Phoebe , Heneghan Michael A. , Chokshi Shilpa , Riva Antonio
Published: January 2025

Bacterial translocation-induced inflammation and immune dysfunction are recognised factors contributing to the pathogenesis of primary biliary cholangitis (PBC). However, the specific involvement of interferons (IFNs) and soluble checkpoints (sol-CRs) in shaping the immune landscape in PBC patients remains unexplored. Furthermore, the influence of ursodeoxycholic acid (UDC) on these immune mediators is unknown. Twenty-eight cytokines and 14 sol-CRs were quantified by Luminex assays in plasma samples from 64 PBC patients and 10 healthy controls (HCs). D-lactate was measured as a marker of bacterial translocation. The PBC subgroups were: 24 UDC responders (UDCRs), 18 UDC non-responders (UDCNRs) and 22 patients with end-stage cirrhotic PBC (ESPBC). Soluble herpes virus entry mediator (HVEM) was upregulated in the UDCR subgroup compared to the HC group (p = 0.0404), with increased significance in the ESPBC subgroup (p < 0.0001). There was a progressive increase in several sol-CRs, particularly soluble CD80, LAG3 and CD137 in ESPBC patients. IFN-gamma was higher in the ESPBC subgroup compared to the UDCR subgroup. Elevated IFN-gamma in the UDCNR subgroup compared to UDCR was more significant on excluding patients with cirrhosis (p = 0.0056). Patients with ESPBC expressed several pro-inflammatory cytokines including IL-6, TNF-alpha and CXCL10 compared to the HC group. IFN-lambda-3, but not IFN-lambda-2, was elevated in the ESPBC subgroup compared to all other subgroups. D-lactate levels were equally elevated in all PBC subgroups compared to the HC group. This study provides valuable insights into the immune landscape of PBC, highlighting potential biomarkers and cytokine signatures associated with disease severity and treatment response. Further investigation into the mechanistic roles may pave the way for more targeted therapeutic interventions in PBC management.
Genome-Wide Association and Genomic Prediction of Alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) Biomass Yield Under Drought Stress
Authors: Medina Cesar A. , Hansen Julie , Crawford Jamie , Viands Donald , Sapkota Manoj , Xu Zhanyou , Peel Michael D. , Yu Long-Xi
Published: January 2025

Developing drought-resistant alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) that maintains high biomass yield is a key breeding goal to enhance productivity in water-limited areas. In this study, 424 alfalfa breeding families were analyzed to identify molecular markers associated with biomass yield under drought stress and to predict high-merit plants. Biomass yield was measured from 18 harvests from 2020 to 2023 in a field trial with deficit irrigation. A total of 131 significant markers were associated with biomass yield, with 80 markers specifically linked to yield under drought stress; among these, 19 markers were associated with multiple harvests. Finally, genomic best linear unbiased prediction (GBLUP) was employed to obtain predictive accuracies (PAs) and genomic estimated breeding values (GEBVs). Removing low-informative SNPs [SNPs with p-values > 0.05 from the additive Genome-Wide Association (GWAS) model] for GBLUP increased PA by 47.3%. The high number of markers associated with yield under drought stress and the highest PA (0.9) represent a significant achievement in improving yield under drought stress in alfalfa.
Circulating Tumor Cell-Free DNA as Prognostic Biomarker in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Patients Undergoing Immunotherapy: The CORELAB Experience
Authors: Gelmini Stefania , Calabri Adele , Mancini Irene , Comin Camilla Eva , Pasini Valeria , Banini Marco , Scotti Vieri , Pinzani Pamela
Published: January 2025

The expression level of Programmed Death-Ligand 1 (PD-L1) determined by the immunohistochemical method is currently approved to test the potential efficacy of immune-checkpoint inhibitors and to candidate patients with Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC) for treatment with immunotherapeutic drugs. As part of the CORELAB (New prediCtivebiOmaRkers of activity and Efficacy of immune checkpoint inhibitors in advanced non-small cell Lung cArcinoma) project, aimed at identifying new predictive and prognostic biomarkers in NSCLC patients receiving immunotherapeutic drugs, we investigated the role of circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) molecular characterization as an additional predictive biomarker. We analyzed plasma ctDNA by targeted Next Generation Sequencing in a subset of 50 patients at different time points. ctDNA content was inversely correlated with the clinical outcome both at a baseline and after 2 months of treatment. OS was significantly higher in patients with ≥50% ctDNA reduction. TP53 and KRAS were the most frequently mutated genes, and patients with KRAS and/or TP53 mutations showed worse outcomes than patients without detectable variants or with mutations in other genes. Fewer common variants were found in BRAF, EGFR, MAP2K1, MET, NRAS, and PIK3CA genes. Our data demonstrated that molecular characterization of ctDNA and also its quantitative evaluation could serve as a dynamic, real-time prognostic, and predictive biomarker, enabling regular molecular monitoring of therapy efficacy in support of other medical examinations.
Exogenous SNP Alleviates Drought Stress in Wheat During the Grain-Filling Stage by Modulating TaP5CS Gene Transcription
Authors: Xue Xinyu , Li Ruqing , Zhang Menghan , Jin Sixu , Jiang Haifang , Wang Chongju , Pang Yifei , Xue Ruili , Wang Yuexia
Published: January 2025

Drought stress severely damages wheat growth and photosynthesis, and plants at the grain-filling stage are the most sensitive to drought throughout the entire period of development. Exogenous spraying of sodium nitroprusside (SNP) can alleviate the damage to wheat caused by drought stress, but the mechanism regulating the proline pathway remains unknown. Two wheat cultivars, drought-sensitive Zhoumai 18 and drought-tolerant Zhengmai 1860, were used as materials when the plants were cultivated to the grain-filling stage. The results show that under drought stress, SNP pretreatment effectively improved the physiological basis of photosynthesis and water use efficiency of the two cultivars, increased their tolerance to photosystem II (PSII) damage, and maintained a normal photosynthetic rate and yield. Drought stress induced an increase in pyrroline-5-carboxylate synthase (TaP5CS) gene transcription, and a comparatively greater increase was detected in Zhengmai 1860. When SNP treatment was applied before drought exposure, TaP5CS transcription was further enhanced. Induction of TaP5CS transcription promoted proline accumulation in response to drought stress, increased osmotic ability, and maintained the net photosynthetic rate, thereby increasing the accumulation of dry matter and yield traits. In this study, exogenous SNP regulates the transcription of genes related to the proline metabolism pathway and provides a theoretical basis for the establishment of wheat cultivation technology using SNP to resist drought stress.
Anti-Human Leukocyte Antigen Antibody Detection from Terasaki’s Humoral Theory to Delisting Strategies in 2024
Authors: San Segundo David , Comins-Boo Alejandra , López-Hoyos Marcos
Published: January 2025

The human leukocyte antigen (HLA) system plays a critical role in transplant immunology, influencing outcomes through various immune-mediated rejection mechanisms. Hyperacute rejection is driven by preformed donor-specific antibodies (DSAs) targeting HLAs, leading to complement activation and graft loss within hours to days. Acute rejection typically occurs within six months post-transplantation, involving cellular and humoral responses, including the formation of de novo DSAs. Chronic rejection, a key factor in long-term graft failure, often involves class II DSAs and complex interactions between the innate and adaptive immune systems. Advancements in HLA antibody detection, particularly single antigen bead (SAB) assays, have improved the sensitivity and characterization of DSAs. However, these assays face challenges like false positives from denatured antigens and false negatives due to low antibody titers or complement competition. Furthermore, molecular mismatch (MM) analysis has emerged as a potential tool for refining donor–recipient compatibility but faces some issues such as a lack of standardization. Highly sensitized patients with calculated panel-reactive antibodies (cPRA) of 100% face barriers to transplantation. Strategies like serum dilution, novel therapies (e.g., Imlifidase), and delisting approaches could refine immunological risk assessment and delisting strategies are essential to expand transplant opportunities for these patients.
Molecular Mechanisms of Dietary Compounds in Cancer Stem Cells from Solid Tumors: Insights into Colorectal, Breast, and Prostate Cancer
Authors: Filippi Alexandru , Deculescu-Ioniță Teodora , Hudiță Ariana , Baldasici Oana , Gălățeanu Bianca , Mocanu Maria-Magdalena
Published: January 2025

Cancer stem cells (CSC) are known to be the main source of tumor relapse, metastasis, or multidrug resistance and the mechanisms to counteract or eradicate them and their activity remain elusive. There are different hypotheses that claim that the origin of CSC might be in regular stem cells (SC) and, due to accumulation of mutations, these normal cells become malignant, or the source of CSC might be in any malignant cell that, under certain environmental circumstances, acquires all the qualities to become CSC. Multiple studies indicate that lifestyle and diet might represent a source of wellbeing that can prevent and ameliorate the malignant phenotype of CSC. In this review, after a brief introduction to SC and CSC, we analyze the effects of phenolic and non-phenolic dietary compounds and we highlight the molecular mechanisms that are shown to link diets to CSC activation in colon, breast, and prostate cancer. We focus the analysis on specific markers such as sphere formation, CD surface markers, epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT), Oct4, Nanog, Sox2, and aldehyde dehydrogenase 1 (ALDH1) and on the major signaling pathways such as PI3K/Akt/mTOR, NF-κB, Notch, Hedgehog, and Wnt/β-catenin in CSC. In conclusion, a better understanding of how bioactive compounds in our diets influence the dynamics of CSC can raise valuable awareness towards reducing cancer risk.
Understanding Determinants of Management Simulation Games Adoption in Higher Educational Institutions Using an Integrated Technology Acceptance Model/Technology–Organisation–Environment Model: Educator Perspective
Authors: Bach Mirjana Pejić , Meško Maja , Stjepić Ana Marija , Khawaja Sarwar , Quershi Fayyaz Hussain
Published: January 2025

Background and Methods: A primary survey of a multi-national sample of higher institutional educators has been conducted to investigate the determinants of the adoption of management simulation games. The research model is developed based on the technology acceptance model (TAM) and technology–organisation–environment (TOE). Structural equation modelling has been used to test the research model. The paper focuses on the use of management simulation games among educators in higher educational institutions (HEIs). Its purpose is to determine the factors influencing educators’ use of these games from both individual and institutional perspectives. The TAM captures the individual perspective, while the TOE framework addresses the institutional perspective. The structural equation model confirmed most of the TAM hypotheses. Results: However, the model does not support the hypotheses regarding the relationship between perceived ease of use and attitude toward usage or between perceived ease of use and perceived usefulness. The technological factors within the TOE framework did not significantly impact perceived usefulness, only perceived ease of use. Conclusion: The combined TAM-TOE model has demonstrated valid representativeness. Previous research on the usage of management simulation games has primarily focused on students, neglecting the broader perspective of educators in HEIs in business and economics within both the TAM and TOE frameworks.
Exploring the Potential Effectiveness of Croton tiglium Oil and Its Nano-Emulsion on Earias insulana (Lepidoptera: Nolidae)
Authors: S. Khater Karima , M. Abd-Elrhmman Marwa , M. E. A. Said Zeinab , A. El-Sayed Ali , Ali Abdelhadi A. I. , Alkeridis Lamya Ahmed , Al-Shuraym Laila A. , Wang Jingwen , Zhang Qichun , Aioub Ahmed A. A.
Published: January 2025

Earias insulana Boisd. (Lepidoptera: Nolidae) is a major pest of cotton and other crops in Egypt, and the widespread use of insecticides has led to resistance. This study evaluates, for the first time, the bioactivity of Croton tiglium (Malpighiales: Euphorbiaceae) oil and its nano-emulsion (CTNE) against 25 newly hatched larvae of E. insulana Boisd. We assessed their biological effects across different developmental stages and performed histological and ultrastructural examinations. Gas–liquid chromatography (GLC) identified several bioactive compounds in C. tiglium oil crushed dry seeds, including fatty acids, hydrocarbons, and sterols. CTNE showed excellent quality with a zeta potential of −17.7 mV, an average particle size of 54.28 nm, and spherical droplets of 42.42 nm in diameter. The LC50 values for C. tiglium oil and CTNE were 9.02% and 2.70%, respectively. Both treatments significantly impacted the biological characteristics of E. insulana Boisd., including reduced larval and pupal weight, lower adult emergence, decreased fecundity, and increased mortality. Histologically, there was epithelial cell hypotrophy and detachment, while ultrastructural damage included chromatin condensation, nuclear envelope folding, and mitochondrial damage, indicating apoptotic degeneration. These findings suggest C. tiglium oil and CTNE as potential, safe alternatives to chemical insecticides.
Physicochemical Properties of Jet-A/n-Heptane/Alcohol Blends for Turboengine Applications
Authors: Osman Sibel , Ceatra Laurentiu , Cican Grigore , Mirea Radu
Published: January 2025

This work investigated the physical properties of Jet-A blended with n-heptane and various n-alcohols. The mixtures contained 10%, 20%, and 30% n-alcohols, including n-propanol, n-butanol, n-pentanol, n-hexanol, n-heptanol, and n-octanol. These alcohols are either derived from biomass or have significant potential for bio-based production. The blends were assessed against American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) D1655 standards for Jet-A in terms of the density, viscosity, and flash point. Additionally, the refractive index and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis were employed to gain insights into the blend chemical composition. Density measurements for the blends fell within the ASTM specifications (0.7939 to 0.8075 g·cm−3). Viscosity measurements at −20 °C were not directly conducted due to technical limitations. However, extrapolating viscosity–temperature data suggests that the blends would meet the ASTM standard. Flash point measurements revealed that all mixtures exhibited values below the ASTM specification of 38 °C. Regression equations were developed to estimate the density, kinematic viscosity, and refractive index of the studied mixtures as a function of alcohol volume. Furthermore, a correlation study was conducted to estimate density and viscosity from refractive index measurements, given their simplicity, and minimal sample volume requirements. The R2 values for these correlations exceeded 0.99, indicating a strong relationship between the refractive index and the other properties.
Macrophomina phaseolina: A Phytopathogen Associated with Human Ocular Infections—A Case Report of Endophthalmitis and Systematic Review of Human Infections
Authors: Toumasis Panagiotis , Vrioni Georgia , Gardeli Ioanna , Michelaki Aikaterini , Exindari Maria , Orfanidou Maria
Published: January 2025

Background: Macrophomina phaseolina is an important phytopathogenic fungus affecting over 500 plant species worldwide. However, this fungus rarely causes disease in humans. Methods: We reported the first case of endophthalmitis due to M. phaseolina, describing microbiological diagnostic approaches. Also, we performed a systematic review of human infections by this plant pathogen in literature. We searched PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases from inception to 31 December 2024. Results: Our case involved a male patient who presented with photophobia and pain in his right eye. His recent medical history revealed a superficial corneal injury caused by a metal burr three months prior, managed unsuccessfully by topical treatment and subsequent conjunctival flap surgery two months later. Ophthalmological and microbiological investigations, including microscopic examination, cultures, and DNA sequencing of ocular specimens, revealed M. phaseolina endophthalmitis. Despite intravenous and intravitreal antifungal therapy, the patient’s condition continued to worsen, eventually leading to enucleation. Regarding the literature review, we identified 12 additional cases of M. phaseolina human infections previously reported in literature. Overall, M. phaseolina was primarily associated with ocular infections (76.9% of cases), followed by skin infections and combined skin–joint infections. The majority of patients with M. phaseolina infection (63.6%) had no known immunosuppressive factors. Clinical outcomes were unfavorable in 46.15% of cases. Conclusions: M. phaseolina is an emerging cause of human infections, even in immunocompetent hosts, with a predilection for ocular infections. Further research is warranted to elucidate the pathogenesis of fungal infections caused by plant pathogens in humans.
Prognostic Factors After the First Recurrence of Ovarian Cancer
Authors: Salas Bolívar Patricia , Gonzalez-Benitez Cristina , Carbonell López María , Díez Sebastian Jesús , Hernández Gutiérrez Alicia , Zapardiel Ignacio
Published: January 2025

Objective: Ovarian cancer is the fifth most frequent tumor in women and the second most common gynecological cancer. Recurrence of ovarian cancer develops in up to 50–90% of patients within the first five years after diagnosis. Approximately 70% of patients with advanced disease will experience a relapse. The aim of this study was to assess prognostic factors that may predict a higher probability of additional recurrences, as well as their treatment and impact on disease-free and overall survival. Method: A retrospective observational study was conducted on patients diagnosed with recurrent ovarian cancer at the Gynecologic Oncology Unit of Hospital Universitario La Paz (Madrid, Spain) from January 2000 to December 2020. All variables related to the initial treatment, diagnosis, and management of the recurrence were collected and analyzed. Results: Data from 144 patients with recurrent ovarian cancer were analyzed. Statistically significant differences were found in disease-free survival between patients depending on initial tumor staging and primary treatment. Better outcomes were observed in patients with FIGO (International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics) stages I–II compared to those with FIGO stages III–IV at diagnosis (p = 0.021), as well as in patients who underwent primary cytoreduction compared to those who received neoadjuvant chemotherapy followed by interval surgery (p < 0.001). The disease-free interval was categorized into three periods, <6 months, 6–12 months, and ≥12 months, with greater survival observed in those with a longer disease-free interval (p < 0.001). After the first recurrence, two factors significantly influenced patient survival: the type of treatment received after the first recurrence (p < 0.001) and the type of chemotherapy regimen (p = 0.001). Complete cytoreduction during primary treatment was an independent prognostic factor and was related to better overall survival in patients where it was achieved (p = 0.004), regardless of the number of recurrences. Conclusions: The prognostic factors with impact on the survival of patients with a first recurrence of ovarian cancer are the following: treatment modality of the primary tumor, treatment modality of the recurrence, type of chemotherapy regimen, and disease-free interval from initial diagnosis to the first recurrence.
Do Anxiety, Depression, Fear of Movement and Fear of Achilles Rupture Correlate with Achilles Tendinopathy Pain, Symptoms or Physical Function?
Authors: White George , Bright Fletcher , Rio Ebonie K. , Chimenti Ruth L. , Murphy Myles C.
Published: January 2025

Objectives: To determine if psychological factors, such as anxiety, depression, fear of movement and fear of rupture are associated with increased tendon-related disability, quantified by the Tendinopathy Severity Assessment-Achilles (TENDINS-A). Design: Cross-sectional. Setting: Online Qualtrics survey. Participants: Sixty-eight participants (54% female) with Achilles tendinopathy and a mean (standard deviation) age of 40.1 (12.6) years. Main Outcome Measures: The TENDINS-A (including subscales of pain; symptoms such as stiffness; physical function), Patient Health Questionnaire-9, General Anxiety Disorder-7, Tampa Scale for Kinesiophobia and fear of tendon rupture. Associations were evaluated using generalised linear models (adjusting for age and sex), with significance accepted when p < 0.05. Results: Anxiety symptoms were positively associated with Achilles pain (p = 0.035), symptoms (p = 0.045) and physical function (p = 0.019). Depressive symptoms were negatively associated with symptoms (p = 0.045) but not pain (p = 0.078) or physical function (p = 0.429). Fear of movement was not associated with pain (p = 0.479), symptoms (p = 0.915) or physical function (p = 0.064). Fear of rupture was associated with pain (p = 0.042), but not symptoms (p = 0.797) or physical function (p = 0.509). Conclusions: Our research demonstrated anxiety symptoms and fear of rupture, not fear of movement or depressive symptoms, are positively associated with the severity of tendon-related disability. Therefore, clinicians should include an assessment anxiety symptoms and fear of rupture in their practice.
Reference Values of Skin Autofluorescence by Age Groups in Healthy Spanish Adults: Results from the EVasCu Study, a Systematic Review, and a Meta-Analysis
Authors: Martínez-García Irene , Cavero-Redondo Iván , Pascual-Morena Carlos , Otero-Luis Iris , Fenoll-Morate Marta , Lever-Megina Carla Geovanna , Rodríguez-Gutiérrez Eva , Saz-Lara Alicia
Published: January 2025

Background/Objectives: Age is a known predictor of skin autofluorescence (SAF) across populations, but age-based reference values are lacking for the Spanish population. This study aims to establish SAF reference values for healthy Spanish adults by age group, compare these with other populations, and estimate optimal SAF cut-off points by age range. Additionally, it aims to analyse the influence of sex, smoking, and skin phototype. Methods: This cross-sectional EVasCu study included 390 healthy subjects aged over 18 years. Participants’ age, sex, smoking status, and skin were recorded and categorised into age groups. Advanced glycation end products were measured through the SAF. A systematic review and meta-analysis, including an EVasCu study, was performed to obtain pooled means and standard deviations by age group. Results: The mean SAF Spanish values by age were (95% CI): (i) 18–19 years: 1.34–1.56 arbitrary units (AU); (ii) 20–29 years: 1.56–1.70 AU; (iii) 30–39 years: 1.66–1.84 AU; (iv) 40–49 years: 1.79–1.91 AU; (v) 50–59 years: 2.07–2.21 AU; (vi) ≥60 years: 2.07–2.50 AU. SAF was significantly correlated with age (r = 0.531; p < 0.001), smoking status (r = −0.196; p < 0.001), and skin phototype (r = 0.138; p = 0.007), and SAF was greater in smokers and dark-skinned individuals (p < 0.05). No significant differences were found in the SAF values for sex. The results of the meta-analysis were in line with those of the present study, providing reference values of SAF for the general population. Conclusions: SAF increases linearly with age in healthy individuals, and higher levels of SAF are observed in smokers and dark-skinned individuals.
Relationship Between an Interleukin 6 SNP and Relapse After Allogeneic Bone Marrow Transplantation
Authors: Takahashi Hidekazu , Yamaguchi Natsu , Okayama Naoko , Nishioka Mitsuaki , Mahbub M. H. , Hase Ryosuke , Suehiro Yutaka , Yamasaki Takahiro , Takahashi Satoshi , Tojo Arinobu , Tanabe Tsuyoshi
Published: January 2025

Background/Objectives: Unrelated bone marrow transplantation (BMT) is a curative treatment for hematological malignancies. While HLA mismatch is a recognized risk factor in unrelated BMT, the significance of non-HLA single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) remains uncertain. Cytokines play key roles in several aspects of unrelated BMT. Although the relationship between cytokine gene SNPs and BMT outcomes has been examined, the findings obtained have been inconsistent; therefore, further investigations in additional cohorts are warranted. Methods: Four SNPs in the IL2, IL6, IFN-gamma, and TGF-beta1 genes were retrospectively genotyped in 822 malignant patients and their corresponding donors who received unrelated BMT through the Japan Marrow Donor Program with compatibility at minimum HLA-A, -B, and -DRB1. The relationships between these SNP genotypes and BMT outcomes were statistically analyzed. Results: The donor interleukin-6 (IL6) SNP, rs1800796, also known as -572G>C and -634C/G, was associated with the relapse of the original disease in both univariable and multivariable regression analyses (minimum p-value = 0.0013), and the cumulative incidence curve analysis identified CC as a risk genotype (p-value = 0.0012). None of these SNPs correlated with overall survival. Conclusions: The donor IL6 SNP, rs1800796, may serve as a useful predictor of tumor relapses if validated.
The Effect of Surface Functionalization of Magnesium Alloy on Degradability, Bioactivity, Cytotoxicity, and Antibiofilm Activity
Authors: Nocchetti Morena , Piccinini Michela , Pietrella Donatella , Antognelli Cinzia , Ricci Maurizio , Di Michele Alessandro , Jalaoui Layla , Ambrogi Valeria
Published: January 2025

Magnesium alloys are promising biomaterials to be used as temporary implants due to their biocompatibility and biodegradability. The main limitation in the use of these alloys is their rapid biodegradation. Moreover, the risk of microbial infections, often following the implant surgery and hard to eradicate, is another challenge. Thus, with the aim of reducing biodegradability and conferring antibiofilm activity, sheets of the magnesium alloy AZ31 were properly modified with the introduction of hydroxy (polyethyleneoxy)propyl silane (PEG) and quaternary ammonium silane chains (QAS). The derivatized sheets were characterized by ATR-FTIR spectroscopy and their performances as concerns their stability, Mg2+ in vitro release, and in vitro bioactivity were evaluated as well. The results showed an increased stability with a reduction in corrosion, a slower Mg2+ ion release, and the formation of hydroxyapatite in the sheets’ surface. In addition, cytotoxicity evaluations were carried out on human gingival fibroblasts showing that the AZ31 and AZ31-PEG plates had good cytocompatibility. Finally, the antibiofilm activity on Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa was carried out by evaluating the capacity of inhibition of biofilm adhesion and formation. The results demonstrated a significant reduction in biofilm formation by Staphylococcus epidermidis on AZ31-QAS.
A Review of Modeling, Simulation, and Process Qualification of Additively Manufactured Metal Components via the Laser Powder Bed Fusion Method
Authors: De Leon Emmanuel , Riensche Alex , Bevans Benjamin D. , Billings Christopher , Siddique Zahed , Liu Yingtao
Published: January 2025

Metal additive manufacturing (AM) has grown in recent years to supplement or even replace traditional fabrication methods. Specifically, the laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) process has been used to manufacture components in support of sustainment issues, where obsolete components are hard to procure. While LPBF can be used to solve these issues, much work is still required to fully understand the metal AM technology to determine its usefulness as a reliable manufacturing process. Due to the complex physical mechanisms involved in the multiscale problem of LPBF, repeatability is often difficult to achieve and consequently makes meeting qualification requirements challenging. The purpose of this work is to provide a review of the physics of metal AM at the melt pool and part scales, thermomechanical simulation methods, as well as the available commercial software used for finite element analysis and computational fluid dynamics modeling. In addition, metal AM process qualification frameworks are briefly discussed in the context of the computational basis established in this work.
Evaluation of the Hydrodynamic Impacts of Tidal Turbine Arrays in Jiaozhou Bay
Authors: Zhang Chao , Yang Xiuyan , Jiang Yuan , Zhao Wei , Yu Junyu
Published: January 2025

In this paper, a hydrodynamic model of Jiaozhou Bay was developed using the Regional Ocean Modeling System and validated against observed tidal levels and current data. The model accurately characterizes the tidal and current features of the region. Based on this model, the spatial and temporal distributions of flow fields and tidal energy resources were analyzed. A 100-turbine tidal power plant was simulated utilizing a momentum-based approach that accounts for resource distribution, bathymetry, topography, and turbine parameters. The resulting hydrodynamic changes, including velocity variations peaking at 0.5 m/s within the turbine deployment zone and tidal level shifts confined to the bay (maximum change in ~10 cm), emphasize the importance of localized environmental assessments. However, the findings also highlight broader considerations for the sustainable development of tidal energy in semi-enclosed bays worldwide, where strategic siting and design can mitigate larger ecological disturbances. These findings may provide a scientific foundation for balancing clean energy extraction with minimal environmental impact, thus contributing to global efforts to develop more resilient and sustainable coastal energy systems.
The Interaction Mechanisms of Swimming Biomimetic Fish Aligned in Parallel Using the Immersed Boundary Method
Authors: Cai Xiaowei , Xu Tonghua , Zhang Jun , Jiao Yanmei , Yu Haiyang
Published: January 2025

In natural environments, fish almost always swim in groups. Investigating the coupled mechanism of biomimetic fish exhibiting autonomous swimming capabilities advances our understanding of fish schooling phenomena and simultaneously aids in refining the structural and formation configurations of underwater robotic vehicles. This work innovatively develops an algorithm based on the Direct-Forcing Immersed Boundary Method (DF-IBM) and implements it in an efficient, modular software program written in C++. The program accelerates the calculation process by using a multigrid method. Validation against a benchmark case of flow around a cylinder, with comparison to data from the existing literature, verifies the program’s precision with discrepancies of less than 3.6%. Based on this algorithm, the paper analyzes the incompressible viscous flow during the movement of parallel-aligned biomimetic fish. It uncovers the interaction between the fish’s motion and the surrounding flow field and also reveals the hydrodynamic mechanisms of the group motion of the parallel-aligned biomimetic fish. The flow field under varying spacing and phases between the parallel-aligned biomimetic fish proves that the interaction between the flow fields induced by the two fish bodies becomes increasingly significant when decreasing the lateral spacing from 1.4L to 0.6L. Notably, an initial lateral convergence of the fish bodies is observed, followed by a sideways swimming pattern at a particular pitch angle, accompanied by a decrement in their forward swimming velocity as they approach each other. Additionally, this study compares flow field alterations in parallel-aligned biomimetic fish with identical lateral spacing but opposing flapping phases. The findings indicate that, irrespective of the phase, the fish exhibit an initial convergence followed by a sideways motion at a specific pitch angle. However, due to disparities in the tail’s flow field, a larger pitch angle is generated when the fish swim in unison. All the findings above will provide a solid theoretical foundation for the design and optimization of underwater robotic vehicles.
Study of the Antagonism of Biocontrol Strains Against the Blue-Stain Fungus of Rubberwood
Authors: Wu Xiaolong , Yang Susu , Li Jun , Qiu Jian , Qin Lei
Published: January 2025

Wood blue staining is one of the most common wood defects, which commonly occurs in rubberwood and Masson pine. It not only affects the appearance of the wood, but also its properties. In this study, rubberwood from Xishuangbanna was examined. During the process, blue-stain fungi and endophytic fungi were isolated and identified. The antagonism of biocontrol strains against blue-stain fungi was studied, and their inhibitory effects were evaluated by inoculating the biocontrol strains on non-blue-stained rubberwood. The morphology and distribution of the strains on the wood were observed using polarized light and fluorescence microscopy, infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM–EDS), and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The effects of biocontrol strains on the blue stain of the wood were then evaluated. The results showed that at room temperature, the fungus causing the blue stain in rubberwood was identified as Lasiodiplodia theobromae, and the biocontrol strains of endophytic fungi isolated were Trichoderma koningii and Trichoderma reesei. It was found that T. reesei was more effective than T. koningii in inhibiting the development of L. theobromae. Based on these findings, T. reesei was suggested as a biocontrol strain for preventing and controlling blue stain in rubberwood.
A Model-Free Lattice
Authors: Chen Ren-Raw , Hsieh Pei-Lin , Huang Jeffrey , Zhao Hongbiao
Published: January 2025

Predicting future price movements has always been one of the major topics in financial research, and there is no better method to predict the future prices of an asset than using its derivatives. In this paper, we propose a model-free lattice model that describes the complete price evolution of the underlying asset and simultaneously re-prices all of its European options. Given that such a lattice is consistent with market option prices, it must embed all necessary risk factors (e.g., random volatility, random interest rates, and jumps) and market restrictions (e.g., mean-reversion and liquidity) that are priced into the European options.
Elevating Customer Brand Advocacy Through Owned Social Media Content
Authors: Irawan Ari , Cheng Julian Ming-Sung
Published: January 2025

This study examines the relationship between personal values embedded in brand-owned social media (OSM) messages and customer brand advocacy (CBA) using text mining data of tweets from Fortune 500 companies. We employ an economics approach to examine how personal values influence CBA across service and manufacturing brands. Our findings reveal that self-enhancement and conservation values significantly boost CBA, while self-transcendence and openness to change are less impactful. Furthermore, this study highlights that conservation values are more effective for manufacturing brands, whereas self-enhancement, self-transcendence, and openness to change drive higher CBA in service brands. This study contributes to the literature on social media marketing by providing actionable insights for brand managers, demonstrating that aligning OSM content with personal values can enhance CBA. This study offers a nuanced understanding of how personal values and industry characteristics intersect to influence consumer behavior, helping brands craft more effective and resonant social media strategies.
Free Sampling, Bundling, and Digital Formatting: Exploring Strategy Effects of Digital Goods Retailers
Authors: Chen Li
Published: January 2025

Retailers of digital goods such as e-books, online newspapers, and mobile applications often use strategies in multiple aspects. Meanwhile, they need to consider the interrelation between their strategies. Nevertheless, little rigorous research has been conducted on the strategy effects of retailers. Our paper makes an exploratory effort by investigating retailers’ bundling and multi-formatting strategies on their free sample size decisions. Drawing from the prior literature, we develop a set of hypotheses related to the interplay of strategies. We collected data about 316 e-books from a popular e-commerce platform. Based on this unique dataset, we conducted a set of regression analyses to test the interactions of retailers’ strategies. Our results show that retailers would like to offer smaller free samples for e-books with which retailers offer bundling options and audiobook formats with the same content. In addition, for the bundle design features, we find that the bundle size has a significant impact on the free sample size, but the recommended bundle has not exerted such impact. Overall, our research contributes new knowledge and presents practical insights for retailers to better manage their strategy mix.
Source Apportionment and Analysis of Potentially Toxic Element Sources in Agricultural Soils Based on the Positive Matrix Factorization and Geo-Detector Models
Authors: Liu Xu , Yang Zhongfang , Li Bo , Wu Zhiliang , Wang Lei , Yu Tao , Li Cheng , He Zexin , Xie Minghui , Deng Chenning , Shi Huading
Published: January 2025

The potentially toxic element pollution of agricultural soils has become a significant environmental threat to food safety and human health. Accurately identifying sources of potentially toxic element pollution is key to developing effective pollution prevention and control measures. In this study, regional potentially toxic element pollution of the soils in the Nanliujiang River Basin was analyzed using the positive matrix factorization (PMF) model and the geo-detector model. First, topsoil samples from the study area were collected to analyze eight potentially toxic elements in the soil, including As, Cd, Cr, Cu, Hg, Ni, Pb, and Zn. The PMF model was used to conduct source apportionment of the potentially toxic element data and identify the primary pollution sources and their contribution rates. Then, the geo-detector model was used to analyze the key factors affecting the spatial distribution of the potentially toxic elements and the influence of natural and human factors on the distribution of the potentially toxic elements. There are four potentially toxic element pollution sources of the agricultural soil in the study area: geological background, agricultural activities, industrial discharge, and river irrigation. The geological background contributed the most. The main factors affecting the spatial distribution of potentially toxic elements included agricultural activities, industrial discharge, and river irrigation. This integrated method can analyze the formation of potentially toxic element pollution in depth from the perspectives of source apportionment and spatial differentiation and provide a scientific basis and decision support for preventing and controlling potentially toxic element pollution in agricultural soils. This study provides a new method and scientific basis for identifying and preventing potentially toxic element pollution sources in agricultural soil and can guide the formulation of targeted soil pollution control measures.
Pinglu Canal Construction and Its Impact on Wildlife Habitat Connectivity: A Multi-Species Network Analysis and Ecological Restoration Strategy
Authors: Cao Yuan , Su Kai , You Yongfa , Jiang Xuebing , Li Chuang , Chen Junjie
Published: January 2025

The construction of the Pinglu Canal has significantly promoted economic development in southwestern Guangxi but it has also posed serious threats to wildlife habitat connectivity in the region. During the construction process, changes in land use types have led to habitat fragmentation, triggering a series of negative ecological effects, such as the “ecological island effect” and “edge effect”. This study uses the MaxEnt model to identify habitats for 11 wildlife species within the study area, categorized into terrestrial mammals, amphibians and reptiles, forest birds, and water birds, thereby constructing a multi-species habitat connectivity network (MHCN). Through complex network analysis, we assess habitat connectivity before and after the canal’s construction, as well as after implementing habitat optimization strategies. The results indicate that, following the completion of the Pinglu Canal, the wildlife habitat area decreased by 516.47 square kilometers, accounting for 5.79% of the total area, and the number of wildlife migration corridors decreased from 279 to 223, with a total decline of 56. Moreover, the average degree and clustering coefficient of habitat connectivity networks for various species showed a downward trend, while the average path length increased, indicating intensified habitat fragmentation and a growing threat to biodiversity in the region. In response, an ecological restoration strategy is proposed, which involves creating new habitats at key ecological “pinch points” and “barrier points,” increasing habitat area by 28.13% and the number of migration corridors by 33.41%, significantly enhancing the network’s robustness and connectivity. This research provides important references for biodiversity conservation and ecological restoration in the region.