bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modification of Pure Zinc Surface for Biomedical Applications: The Effect of Oxygen Plasma Immersion Ion Implantation on Tuning the Degradation Rate
Authors: Gambaro S. , Ould Mohamed S. , Beraldo C. H. M. , Paternoster C. , Agbe H. , Lecis N. , Mantovani D.
Published: February 2025

Zinc is a high-potential metal for biodegradable implants. The study of the surface properties, even if at a fundamental level, is of central importance because the surface is the place where electrochemical, physical, and biological interactions take place; this is critical especially for biomedical applications, in which these interactions affect each other. The present work investigates the effect of low-energy oxygen implantation, in the range of − 1 to − 5 kV, for different durations on commercially pure Zn, whose surface had been mechanically polished. The characterization of the as-received and implanted surface was carried out with standard and high-resolution electron microscopy, energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, sessile drop contact angle, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and potentiodynamic tests. The plasma-treated surface showed distinct features related to the process parameters, such as the formation of surface waves and oxide agglomerates. The formation of an O-rich layer with specific morphological features was responsible for a slight modification of the corrosion rate, found to be generally lower for longer-time implanted samples being, for instance, ~  78 ± 26 μm year−1 for samples implanted applying − 1 kV for 60 min compared to that of untreated samples, which is ~ 135 ± 9 μm year−1.
A Meta-analytic Review of Platelet-Rich Plasma in Fat Grafting: Enhancing Clinical Outcomes
Authors: Arkoubi Amr Youssef
Published: February 2025

While platelet-rich plasma (PRP) has gained popularity in plastic surgery, the supporting evidence for its use in this field has not been thoroughly evaluated. This meta-analysis investigated the efficacy and safety of PRP combined with fat grafting compared to fat grafting alone, focusing on fat survival rate outcomes. A comprehensive and systematic search of the Cochrane Library, Web of Science, EMBASE, and PubMed databases was conducted for clinical studies on platelet-reconstituted plasma and fat transfer between 2000 and 2024 for this PRISMA-guided meta-analysis. The methodological quality of the included studies was assessed using the Downs and Black measure. Fifteen trials, encompassing 1215 patients, 417 in the autologous fat graft (AFG) group, and 798 in the (PRP) group, were included and evaluated. Patients were monitored from 3 to 12 months after PRP administration, compared to the fat grafting alone group. The PRP + AFG group demonstrated a significantly higher fat survival rate (0.34 [0.33, 0.35], p < 0.00001) and a significantly shorter recovery period (− 2.67 [− 4.95, − 0.40], p = 0.02). Patient satisfaction was also significantly higher in the PRP group (3.81 [2.59, 5.60], p < 0.00001). This research suggests that PRP-enhanced fat transplantation offers advantages over conventional fat grafting alone in terms of fat survival rate and recovery period.
Unequal fields: Political ecology perspective on organic cotton production in Tajikistan
Authors: Zakirova Aksana , Alff Henryk , Schmidt Matthias
Published: February 2025

The paper explores the adoption of organic cotton production by smallholder farmers in Tajikistan’s northern Sughd and southwestern Khatlon regions through the lens of political ecology. The research focuses on the complex interactions among socio-economic, environmental and political variables that influence the decision-making processes of Tajikistani smallholders as they navigate the transition towards adopting organic farming practices. This transition, initiated and guided by the external actors, largely from high-income nations, emphasizes broader power dynamics and asymmetries inherent within the global agricultural system. In addition to illuminating the pivotal role of smallholder farmers in sustainable agriculture and rural development, we ask how power relations, institutional frameworks, and market dynamics impacts the adoption of organic cotton by smallholders in Tajikistan, and the implications this has for local communities. By exploring these dimensions, we emphasize the need for supportive policies and the development of inclusive market mechanisms. This study acknowledges the vulnerability of smallholders to the volatility of the global organic cotton markets, influenced by external shocks such as pandemics, wars, and natural hazards. Considering the absence of domestic markets for organic produce in Tajikistan, we stress the reliance of smallholders on turbulent external markets, highlighting the urgent need for resilient and diversified market linkages to safeguard their livelihoods.
Impact of climate change and land use/cover change on water yield in the Liaohe River Basin, Northeast China
Authors: Lyu Leting , Jiang Ruifeng , Zheng Defeng , Liang Liheng
Published: February 2025

The Liaohe River Basin (LRB) in Northeast China, a critical agricultural and industrial zone, has faced escalating water resource pressures in recent decades due to rapid urbanization, intensified land use changes, and climate variability. Understanding the spatiotemporal dynamics of water yield and its driving factors is essential for sustainable water resource management in this ecologically sensitive region. This study employed the Integrated Valuation of Ecosystem Services and Tradeoffs (InVEST) model to quantify the spatiotemporal patterns of water yield in the LRB (dividing into six sub-basins from east to west: East Liaohe River Basin (ELRB), Taizi River Basin (TRB), Middle Liaohe River Basin (MLRB), West Liaohe River Basin (WLRB), Xinkai River Basin (XRB), and Wulijimuren River Basin (WRB)) from 1993 to 2022, with a focus on the impacts of climate change and land use cover change (LUCC). Results revealed that the LRB had an average annual precipitation of 483.15 mm, with an average annual water yield of 247.54 mm, both showing significant upward trend over the 30-a period. Spatially, water yield demonstrated significant heterogeneity, with higher values in southeastern sub-basins and lower values in northwestern sub-basins. The TRB exhibited the highest water yield due to abundant precipitation and favorable topography, while the WRB recorded the lowest water yield owing to arid conditions and sparse vegetation. Precipitation played a significant role in shaping the annual fluctuations and total volume of water yield, with its variability exerting substantially greater impacts than actual evapotranspiration (AET) and LUCC. However, LUCC, particularly cultivated land expansion and grassland reduction, significantly reshaped the spatial distribution of water yield by modifying surface runoff and infiltration patterns. This study provides critical insights into the spatiotemporal dynamics of water yield in the LRB, emphasizing the synergistic effects of climate change and land use change, which are pivotal for optimizing water resource management and advancing regional ecological conservation.
Comparing the osteogenic effects of sputtered titanium- and strontium titanate (STO)-modified polyetheretherketone
Authors: Ikuta Masato , Harumningtyas Anjar Anggraini , Ito Tomoko , Fujita Kenta , Kitahara Takayuki , Bun Masayuki , Furuichi Takuya , Hirai Hiromasa , Ukon Yuichiro , Tateiwa Daisuke , Kanie Yuya , Furuya Masayuki , Fujimori Takahito , Okada Seiji , Hamaguchi Satoshi , Kaito Takashi
Published: February 2025

Polyetheretherketone (PEEK) is widely used as an interbody cage due to its elastic modulus closely resembles that of human bone. However, its biological inertness is considered a major weakness, as it cannot directly bond with bone (lack of osseointegration capacity). Surface modification can impart bioactivity to PEEK while maintaining its mechanical properties. In this study, the surface of PEEK was modified with titanium or strontium titanate thin films formed by magnetron sputtering deposition. We evaluated the bone formation activity of strontium titanate-modified PEEK (PEEK-STO) by comparing three groups: unmodified PEEK (PEEK), titanium-modified PEEK (PEEK-Ti), and strontium titanate-modified PEEK (PEEK-STO). Osteogenic differentiation of cells, assessed by ALP activity, bone-related gene expression, and mineralization ability, demonstrated that PEEK-STO has the highest osteogenic activity. Furthermore, the evaluation of mineral deposition by non-cellular mechanisms using simulated body fluid showed that PEEK-Ti and PEEK-STO have higher calcium phosphate deposition capacity than PEEK. In vivo implantation of the materials into the rat femur demonstrated that bone-to-implant contact ratio (BIC%) and bone area ratio (BA%) in the proximity zone from the implant were significantly larger in PEEK-STO compared to PEEK-Ti and PEEK at 4 weeks post-surgery. This study demonstrates that surface modification of PEEK with strontium titanate through magnetron sputtering is an attractive option for solving the problems of PEEK’s biological inertness while making the most of the advantages of PEEK as a spinal fusion device.
Analysis of the spatial heterogeneity and influencing factors of music training institutions: a case study of Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Shenzhen
Authors: Zhao Jun , Cui Xiangwen , Wang Shaohua , Liu Wenwen , Liu Jiewen , Liu Chang , Zhong Yang , Zhang Zhidong
Published: February 2025

In contemporary society, music art plays a pivotal role in enhancing spiritual quality-of-life and optimizing talent cultivation models. The spatial distribution of music educational resources undoubtedly plays a promotional role in enhancing the quality of music education. However, existing research has not conducted specialized and in-depth studies on this topic. This study uses a geographic information system (GIS) and classical geographical research methods such as the nearest neighbor index, kernel density analysis, and geographic detectors to analyze the spatial distribution and influencing factors of music training institutions in Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Shenzhen. The results indicate that the distribution of these institutions is obviously clustered, with a "northeast‒southwest" trend in Beijing and Shenzhen and a "northwest‒southeast" trend in Shanghai and Guangzhou. Among the categories of urban facilities, which encompass sports, leisure, shopping, and dining, sports venues exert the most substantial influence on the spatial distribution characteristics of music training institutions. The location of music training institutions should be closely integrated with the spatial distribution of urban facilities. This study provides theoretical foundations and practical guidance for policy-makers in the refined adjustment of urban layouts, the rational allocation of artistic educational resources, and the promotion of cultural industry development.
Exploring cooperative governance mechanisms for the ecological security of marine ranching: A differential game approach
Authors: Leng Jie
Published: February 2025

Owing to the increasingly critical ecological security challenges of marine ranching, the government and marine ranching enterprises must collaborate effectively to address this issue. This study employs differential game theory to explore collaborative strategies for maintaining marine ranching ecological security. It considers the influence of marine environmental disaster factors and the effect of enterprises’ ecological security investment through advertising. Three collaborative modes are analyzed: No-cost-sharing, cost-sharing, and full collaborative cooperation. Results show that the increased intensity of marine environmental disasters reduces the optimal ecological security effort by the government and enterprises. Government subsidy initiatives can achieve Pareto improvements in total returns for the government, enterprises, and the system as a whole. In the fully cooperative mode, the collective income of the government, enterprises, and system achieves its highest value, reaching Pareto optimality. Introducing an income distribution mechanism can effectively sustain cooperative engagement between the government and enterprises.
Communication Skills for Business Professionals
Authors: Feekery Angela , Condon Shawn Michael , Witsel Mieke
Published: February 2025

Effective communication is an essential skill all students need to succeed professionally. Based in theory and informed by practice, Communication Skills for Business Professionals takes readers through a range of basic communication concepts and demonstrates how they can be applied in business settings. The third edition has been restructured into three parts, respectively covering understanding communication, communicating in organisations and professional communication strategies in practice. The text has been updated to examine contemporary topics of increasing relevance, including the effects of AI on communication skills, intercultural competencies in business contexts and how to successfully facilitate virtual meetings in a post‒COVID-19 workplace. Each chapter includes short-answer questions, skill-builder activities and margin definitions to cement learning, while the two running case studies provide realistic examples of communication in practice. Communication Skills for Business Professionals remains an indispensable resource for business students wanting to improve their communication skills.
Antimicrobial resistance and virulence in Klebsiella pneumoniae: a four-month study in Osogbo, Nigeria
Authors: Akintoyese Taofikat Olatundun , Alao Jude Oluwapelumi , Oladipo Elijah Kolawole , Oyedemi Omolanke Temitope , Oyawoye Olubukola Monisola
Published: February 2025

Objective:

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a growing global health crisis, with Klebsiella pneumoniae being a key pathogen due to its multidrug resistance (MDR). This study aimed to investigate the resistance profiles, demographic correlations, and molecular characteristics of MDR K. pneumoniae at UNIOSUN Teaching Hospital, Osogbo, Nigeria.

Methods:

From January to April 2022, 99 clinical isolates (K. pneumoniae) were collected from various specimen types (blood, sputum, urine, wound, stool, and oral cavity). Antibiotic susceptibility was assessed using the Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion method, and virulence genes were analysed using multiplex polymerase chain reaction.

Results:

All isolates exhibited resistance to ceftriaxone, cefotaxime, and colistin, with high resistance observed for cefepime and carbapenems (meropenem, imipenem, and ertapenem). Molecular characterization revealed the presence of virulence genes
K1, K2,
and
mrkD
in 15 isolates, while other tested virulence genes (
fimH, ramA, traT, K3,
and
K5
) were not detected. Significant associations were identified between resistance patterns and demographic factors, including age and sex, highlighting potential vulnerabilities in specific populations.

Conclusions:

This study underscores the alarming prevalence of MDR K. pneumoniae and aligns with global trends of rising AMR. Addressing these challenges requires targeted antimicrobial stewardship programs, infection control measures, public education, and enhanced surveillance systems. Incorporating molecular resistance testing and novel therapeutic agents in future research is crucial to developing effective containment strategies and preserving antibiotic efficacy.
Anticipating Office: Does the Populist Radical Right Decrease Its Populist Communication When It Has the Opportunity to Join Government?
Authors: Thomeczek Jan Philipp , Bernhard Laurent
Published: February 2025

The ‘inclusion–moderation thesis’ suggests that populist parties will be tamed by government inclusion. However, empirical evidence is mixed. We argue that this may be explained by different strategic contexts. We hypothesize that populist parties that rely on coalition partners will reduce their populist communication when they have credible government prospects. We analyse multiple years of political communication by two radical-right populist parties, the Swiss People's Party (SVP) and the Freedom Party of Austria (FPÖ). Although the two parties are rather similar ideologically, this is a most different systems design (MDSD). While the SVP is a typical governing party that was only in opposition once (2007/2008), the FPÖ is typically in opposition, with recent government experience (2017–2019). This empirical analysis focuses on these crucial periods. We find evidence of moderation before joining government for both parties in our pooled analysis. However, individual analyses suggest that this was much clearer for the SVP.
Ukr. v. Russ. (Re Crimea) (Eur. Ct. H.R.)
Authors: Miklasová Júlia
Published: February 2025

On June 25, 2024, the Grand Chamber of the European Court of Human Rights (ECtHR, or the Court) delivered a unanimous 346-page judgment in Ukraine v. Russia (re Crimea). The Court found Russia responsible for the administrative practice of violations of eleven substantive articles of the European Convention on Human Rights (the Convention) (Articles 2, 3, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 14, and 18) as well as Articles 1 and 2 of Protocol No. 1, and Article 2 of Protocol No. 4, following Russia's illegal annexation of the peninsula in 2014. These violations, among others, concerned enforced disappearances, ill-treatment, restrictions on Ukrainian media and language education, persecution of Ukrainian and Crimean Tatar opponents of the Russian occupation and expropriation without compensation of property from civilians and private enterprises in the peninsula. The judgment represents a major victory for Ukraine, underscoring that Russia's human rights violations in Crimea form a systematic pattern, particularly highlighting the campaign of repression against the opponents of Russian rule. At the same time, the judgment is significant as it features one of the most consequential considerations of international humanitarian law (IHL) for the interpretation and application of the Convention, thereby positioning the latter in a wider framework of public international law.
Second-generation planet formation after tidal disruption from common envelope evolution
Authors: Chamandy Luke , Nordhaus Jason , Blackman Eric G. , Wilson Emily
Published: February 2025

We propose that certain white dwarf (WD) planets, such as WD 1856+534 b, may form out of material from a stellar companion that tidally disrupts from common envelope evolution with the WD progenitor star. The disrupted companion shreds into an accretion disc, out of which a gas giant protoplanet forms due to gravitational instability. To explore this scenario, we make use of detailed stellar evolution models consistent with WD 1856+534. The minimum mass companion that produces a gravitationally unstable disc after tidal disruption is

$\sim$

$0.15\,\mathrm{M_\odot}$

. In this scenario, WD 1856+534 b might have formed at or close to its present separation, in contrast to other proposed scenarios where it would have migrated in from a much larger separation. Planet formation from tidal disruption is a new channel for producing second-generation planets around WDs.
Micarea svetlanae, a new species of the M. prasina group from the Russian Far East
Authors: Konoreva Liudmila A. , Chesnokov Sergey V. , Frolov Ivan V.
Published: February 2025

A species new to science, Micarea svetlanae, is described from the southern part of the Russian Far East based on morphological, chemical and molecular data. This species is closely related to M. isidioprasina, which also has the micareic acid, the granular-isidiate thallus with Sedifolia-grey pigment, and crystalline granules in the hymenium and thallus, but differs in the cushion-shaped thallus, the presence of Sedifolia-grey pigment in the hymenium, numerous crystalline granules in the hymenium and hypothecium and 0–2(3)-septate ascospores. The results of the phylogenetic reconstruction place M. svetlanae in the M. prasina group. Morphological features and data on ecology, distribution and secondary metabolites are presented in detail in the paper. This new lichen species is named in honour of the Russian lichenologist Dr Svetlana Tchabanenko, who devoted her life to the study of lichens of the Russian Far East.
New northernmost record of Clathria (Clathria) unica and updated records of Cliona aff. celata and Spongia (Spongia) magellanica in Mar del Plata, Argentina, SW Atlantic Ocean
Authors: Pavón Novarin Mariela , Meretta Pablo , Genzano Gabriel , Schejter Laura
Published: February 2025

In this study the finding of the sponge Clathria (Clathria) unica in coastal waters of Mar del Plata city (38°14′24″S, 57°27′30″W), Argentina, at the formation called ‘Banco de Afuera’, is reported. This record constitutes the northernmost record of the species, which was known until the present study only from its type locality in San Antonio Oeste, Río Negro province. Additionally, the bathymetric range of the species is updated from intertidal to 20 m. Other two common sponge species, Cliona aff. celata and Spongia (Spongia) magellanica, were also recorded in this environment for the first time.
The Enigma of San Francisco: Henry George and the Historians
Authors: Istre Logan S.
Published: February 2025

Few figures appear so frequently and yet remain so poorly understood in the narrative of the Gilded Age as does Henry George. This historiographic essay traces George’s evolving role in historians’ accounts of the political drama of the Gilded Age and Progressive Era. George’s popular memory has been shaped overwhelmingly by a few influential survey accounts that have tended to depict him either as a rear-guard apologist of old, small-town ideals or as one of many radical critics of modernity who were stamped out at the end of the nineteenth century. More recent historians have instead sought to present a nuanced George and to emphasize his more concrete and underappreciated contributions to American political thought; but even in many of their hands George’s unique ideas concerning land monopoly have proven difficult. In addition to charting these developments, this essay offers a lens for making sense of the “Prophet of San Francisco” in the twenty-first century.
Enhancing procedural fairness: a critique of the open and inclusive approach to health financing decisions
Authors: Kinuthia John
Published: February 2025

This article is a critique of a report, Open and Inclusive: Fair Processes for Financing Universal Health Coverage. The report proposes a framework that is meant to improve procedural fairness and how decisions in financing of health care can be fairer. The author of this article argues that while procedural fairness and the proposed framework are an important step in improving equity in health sector financing, the report falls short on several aspects of achieving the set objectives. First, the report does not place emphasis on the role of civic education as an important component of public education building on access to information. Therefore, there should be caution in assuming that improved dissemination of information will lead to increased civic action. Secondly, the author proposes that the report include principles that should guide how decisions are made in public deliberations when consensus cannot be achieved. Lastly, the framework in the report does not speak to the complexity of the trade-offs that have to be made between health and other sectors. The author argues that a key area of deliberations in health financing is understanding how practitioners in the sector can argue for better funding against other competing sector such as education and agriculture while still finding complementarities.
Explaining the relationship between religiosity and anti-diversity attitudes among Christians in Western Germany
Authors: Steinmann Jan-Philip , Pickel Gert
Published: February 2025

Research on whether religiosity promotes or reduces prejudice has produced plenty of paradoxical findings. In this article, we address the relationship between religiosity and anti-diversity attitudes (xenophobia and homophobia) among Christians in Western Germany. We ask what the relationship between religiosity and anti-diversity attitudes is and how it can be explained. Two (complementary) theoretical explanations are presented: the religious-ideology explanation emphasizes the role of fundamentalism, and the loss-of-privileges explanation underscores the importance of perceived disadvantage. Our analysis is based on a representative sample of Christians in Western Germany and provides evidence of a curvilinear religiosity–prejudice relationship. Up to a certain level of religiosity, xenophobia and homophobia decrease as religiosity increases; however, the relationship then reverses—anti-diversity attitudes are particularly pronounced among the highly religious. The level of xenophobia among the highly religious is fully explained by fundamentalism and perceived disadvantage, whereas their level of homophobia is only partially explained.
The Adoption of Paid Sick Leave in US States
Authors: Kriner Michael , Way Christopher
Published: February 2025

Paid sick leave, or the ability to remain home from work in the event of illness and receive compensation, has risen in prominence after the COVID-19 pandemic. Among the OECD countries, all but two, the United States and South Korea, have national paid sick leave (PSL) policies. Yet despite federal inaction in the United States, states have been adopting PSL, with 15 plus the District of Columbia having done so by the end of 2020. In the absence of federal policy, what drives states to adopt PSL mandates? In this article, we investigate two possible explanations – women in politics and jurisdictional competition. In the former, we suggest that increases in female representation in state-level governance make it more likely that a state will adopt a PSL policy. In the latter explanation, we suggest that jurisdictional competition in the form of cities or counties adopting municipal PSL policies creates pressure on the state-level government to enact statewide policies to harmonize policy, in a process of “bottom-up” federalism. To evaluate our hypotheses, we create a dataset of all state and municipal PSL policies in the United States. We find strong support for the gender representation argument, but not for the jurisdictional competition argument.
An achromatic metasurface waveguide for augmented reality displays
Authors: Tian Zhongtao , Zhu Xiuling , Surman Philip A. , Chen Zhidong , Sun Xiao Wei
Published: February 2025

Augmented reality (AR) displays are emerging as the next generation of interactive platform, providing deeper human-digital interactions and immersive experiences beyond traditional flat-panel displays. Diffractive waveguide is a promising optical combiner technology for AR owing to its potential for the slimmest geometry and lightest weight. However, severe chromatic aberration of diffractive coupler has constrained widespread adoption of diffractive waveguide. Wavelength-dependent light deflection, caused by dispersion in both in-coupling and out-coupling processes, results in limited full-color field of view (FOV) and nonuniform optical responses in color and angular domains. Here we introduce an innovative full-color AR system that overcomes this long-standing challenge of chromatic aberration using a combination of inverse-designed metasurface couplers and a high refractive index waveguide. The optimized metasurface couplers demonstrate true achromatic behavior across the maximum FOV supported by the waveguide (exceeding 45°). Our AR prototype based on the designed metasurface waveguide, exhibits superior color accuracy and uniformity. This unique achromatic metasurface waveguide technology is expected to advance the development of visually compelling experience in compact AR display systems.
RAB33A promotes metastasis via RhoC accumulation through non-canonical autophagy in cervical cancer
Authors: Huo Lanqing , Huang Xiaodan , Wang Ying , Ouyang Yi , Zheng Xueping , Ouyang Yingyi , Cao Xinping , Chen Kai , Wei Denghui , Wu Yuanzhong , Zhang Ruhua , Lin Yujie , Kang Tiebang , Gao Ying
Published: February 2025

Cervical cancer metastasis is characterized by the systemic spread of tumor cells. However, the underlying mechanism remains incompletely understood. Herein, we demonstrate that RAB33A promoted metastasis by enhancing RhoC accumulation and that higher RAB33A expression predicted poorer prognosis in patients with cervical cancer. Mechanistically, RhoC typically degraded via canonical autophagy due to the binding of two LIR motifs (LC3 interaction region) in RhoC to LC3; however, RAB33A induced non-canonical autophagy, resulting in RhoC stabilization, which facilitated pseudopodia formation and consequently cervical cancer metastasis. The fusion of RAB33A-induced autophagosomes with lysosomes was impaired, as RAB33A inactivated RAB7 by interacting with TBC1D2A, a GTPase-activating protein that targets RAB7. Our findings reveal a pivotal role of the RAB33A-RhoC axis in cervical cancer metastasis, indicating that RhoC inhibitors may be beneficial for treating cervical cancer patients with high levels of RAB33A.
Cancer-independent somatic mutation of the wild-type NF1 allele in normal tissues in neurofibromatosis type 1
Authors: Oliver Thomas R. W. , Lawson Andrew R. J. , Lee-Six Henry , Tollit Anna , Jung Hyunchul , Hooks Yvette , Sanghvi Rashesh , Young Matthew D. , Butler Timothy M. , Nicola Pantelis A. , Treger Taryn D. , Lensing Stefanie V. , Burke G. A. Amos , Aquilina Kristian , Löbel Ulrike , Cortes-Ciriano Isidro , Hargrave Darren , Jorgensen Mette , Jessop Flora A. , Coorens Tim H. H. , Flanagan Adrienne M. , Allinson Kieren , Martincorena Inigo , Jacques Thomas S. , Behjati Sam
Published: February 2025

Cancer predisposition syndromes mediated by recessive cancer genes generate tumors via somatic variants (second hits) in the unaffected allele. Second hits may or may not be sufficient for neoplastic transformation. Here we performed whole-genome and whole-exome sequencing on 479 tissue biopsies from a child with neurofibromatosis type 1, a multisystem cancer-predisposing syndrome mediated by constitutive monoallelic NF1 inactivation. We identified multiple independent NF1 driver variants in histologically normal tissues, but not in 610 biopsies from two nonpredisposed children. We corroborated this finding using targeted duplex sequencing, including a further nine adults with the same syndrome. Overall, truncating NF1 mutations were under positive selection in normal tissues from individuals with neurofibromatosis type 1. We demonstrate that normal tissues in neurofibromatosis type 1 commonly harbor second hits in NF1, the extent and pattern of which may underpin the syndrome’s cancer phenotype.
Efficacy of pre-harvest weed control treatments on onion bulb storability
Authors: Abdelgawad Karima F. , Shehata Said A. , El-Metwally Ibrahim M. , El-Desoki Ebrahim R. , El-Rokiek Kowthar G. , Elkhawaga Fathia A.
Published: February 2025

Storage experiments were carried out, in 2019 and 2020, to evaluate the effect of pre-harvest weed control treatments on quality attributes and storability of onion bulbs during a six-month storage at room temperature (25 ± 5 °C and 50–60% relative humidity) in corrugated paper boxes. Weed control treatments consisted of the aqueous extracts of orange peel processing waste (OPPW) 20%, mango leaves waste (MLW) 30%, and olive oil processing waste (OOPW) 30%, alone or mixed with half a dose of oxyfluorfen herbicide (938 ml ha−1), soil mulching with orange peel processing waste, mango leaves, olive oil processing waste, and rice straw (OPPWM, OOPWM, MLW, and RSM, respectively) at 10 tons ha−1, hoeing, oxyfluorfen herbicide (at 938 and 1875 ml ha−1), and an unweeded control treatment. OPPW mulch and hoeing treatments were the most effective treatments in improving storability, decreasing weight loss and decay percentages of onion bulbs as well as maintaining bulb quality attributes, i.e., bulb firmness, dry matter, total soluble solids and total soluble sugars content during a six-months storage. It was concluded that using OPPW and MLW, as soil mulches or as aqueous extracts, for weed control within onion field, helps maintain onion bulb quality, and storability.
Mathematical modeling and optimal control of depression dynamics influenced by saboteurs
Authors: Nivetha S. , Karthik A. , Tandon Abhinav , Ghosh Mini
Published: February 2025

Depression disorder affects millions globally, characterized by symptoms such as profound sadness, loss of interest in activities, and disruptions in eating and sleeping patterns. Understanding depression within the context of chronic pain is essential for developing effective management and intervention strategies. This study utilizes mathematical modeling to analyze depression trends using empirical data from Spain spanning from 2011 to 2022. Our depression model incorporates distinct compartments for primary and secondary depressed populations, along with a category for individuals categorized as saboteurs, who may actively influence the depression prevalence. We calculated the basic reproduction number
$$(R_0)$$
and identified four equilibrium points and evaluated their stability. Additionally, sensitivity analysis was conducted to assess the impact of
$$(R_0)$$
on depression prevalence. Furthermore, optimal control strategies were explored for the model. These strategies aim to improve treatment adherence, encourage doctor consultations, promote self-medication practices, and enhance recovery rates, ultimately aiming to reduce spread of depressive disorders and associated mortality. Data fitting was conducted using Python, and simulations were carried out in MATLAB to ensure rigorous validation of the model.
Heterotrilanthanide Cluster Complexes Exhibiting Up-conversion Luminescence in Water
Authors: Karashimada Ryunosuke , Musha Koki , Iki Nobuhiko
Published: February 2025

Heterotrinuclear cluster complexes consisting of Er–Yb– and Tb–Yb–thiacalix[4]arene-p-tetrasulfonate exhibited photon up-conversion luminescence in water, in which visible light emission from the Er and Tb center, respectively, was induced by two-photon...
Synthesis of stretchable triboelectric material with strain-compensating ability using gradient interpenetrating polymer networks
Authors: Kim Do-Wan , Mun Hyeonwoo , Kang Yeonghun , Kim Weon-Guk , Ahn Dahye , Yun Seong-Yun , Han Jeong-A , Lee Do Hoon , Lee Taegoon , Jeong Kihoon , Kim Jihan , Im Sung Gap , Choi Yang-Kyu
Published: February 2025

Unlike conventional rigid triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs), elastic TENGs are considered attractive for energy harvesting and sensing applications in mechanically harsh conditions. However, the practicality of elastic TENGs has been limited...
Moisture-inhibited deprotonation at the buried interface enables efficient perovskite solar cells with high fill factor over 86%
Authors: Zou Shengwen , Zhang Jingjing , Xin Yi , Jin Jinlong , Liu Guangxin , Yan Xiaojun , Huang Jianmei
Published: February 2025

SnO2 is one of the best electron-transport materials for perovskite solar cells (PSCs). However, the limited interfacial contact and the reaction occurring at the buried interface between perovskite and SnO2...
Blue micro-/nanoplastics abundance in the environment: a double threat as a Trojan horse for a plastic-Cu-phthalocyanine pigment and an opportunity for nanoplastic detection via micro-Raman spectroscopy
Authors: Cârdan Ioana , Nesterovschi Ion , Barbu-Tudoran Lucian , Pînzaru Simona Cîntă
Published: February 2025

Our approach lowers the size of nanosized plastics detectable via micro-Raman spectroscopy, exploiting the resonance Raman signal from blue-pigmented, highly abundant microplastics.
Quantitative comparison of local field enhancement from tip-apex and plasmonic nanofocusing excitation via plasmon-assisted field emission resonances
Authors: Lin Chenfang , Li Jie , Li Guoao , Luo Wenjie , Liu Shuyi , Hammud Adnan , Xia Yang , Pan Anlian , Wolf Martin , Müller Melanie , Kumagai Takashi
Published: February 2025

A novel method for comparing near-field intensities of the localized surface plasmon excited by different schemes in a scanning-tunneling-microscope junction.
Ultrafast Electron Transfer at the ZnIn2S4/MoS2 S-Scheme Interface for Photocatalytic Hydrogen Evolution
Authors: Bhatt Himanshu , Patel Mahammed Suleman , Goswami Tanmay , Yadav Dharmendra Kumar , Patra Atal  Swathi , Ghosh Hirendra N.
Published: February 2025

The performance of any photocatalyst relies on its solar harvesting and charge separation characteristics. Fabricating the S-scheme heterostructure is a proficient approach for designing the next-generation photocatalyst with improved redox...
Research progress in the preparation of sodium-ion battery anode materials using ball milling
Authors: Zhang Liwen , Huang Shandong , Ding Yihong , Zeng Tianbiao
Published: February 2025

Ball milling, as an efficient material processing technique, has been widely applied in the preparation and modification of sodium-ion battery anode materials in recent years.
Low Compressibility of Photoelectric Properties in Layered Molecular Non-Metal Halide AsI3
Authors: li zonglun , Gao Dexiang , Chen Shuxin , Yue Lei , Yuan Bao Ruirui , Shen Xudong , Kang Le , Li Quanjun , Liu Bingbing
Published: February 2025

Examining the evolution of photocurrent response in materials under high pressure is an exceptionally effective strategy for deepening our understanding of the intricate relationship between material structure and its photoelectric-related...
Photogenerated Electron–hole separation–driven CO2 reduction coupled with tetracycline oxidation over LaMnO₃ nanoparticles/oxygen–etched g–C₃N₄ heterojunction: Complementary effects brought by proton transfer
Authors: Mang Changye , Yang Xiduan , Luo Jun , Rao Mingjun , Li Guanghui , Jiang Tao
Published: February 2025

This study introduces a simple one–step in situ calcination strategy for fabricating a heterojunction of perovskite–type LaMnO3 nano–particles/oxygen–etched graphitic carbon nitride (OE–g–C3N4) to enhance photogenerated charge separation and suppress electron–hole...
Exploring processing-structure-property relationships of chemically precipitated strontium silicate particles for medical applications
Authors: Huang Yun-Ru , Ding Shinn-Jyh
Published: February 2025

Bone regeneration in the presence of osteoporosis presents a significant challenge in dental and orthopedic surgery. To tackle this issue, researchers have developed strontium-containing biomaterials. However, preventing bacterial infection is...
Nonlinear Transport Behaviors in Anti-aromatic Cyclo[n]carbon-based (n = 4k) Molecular Devices
Authors: Guo Junnan , Fang Wenhui , Huang Jian , Zhang Lishu , Wu Weikang , Li Hui
Published: February 2025

Recently, a doubly anti-aromatic cyclo[16]carbon (C16) has been successfully synthesized. Similar to doubly aromatic Cn (n = 4k + 2), anti-aromatic Cn (n = 4k), including C16, feature vertically discrete...
Dual-mode immunochromatographic test strips based on aggregation-induced luminescence nanoprobes for the detection of ZEN in corn
Authors: Xu Haitao , Yu Chunlei , Ren Keyun , Nie Kunying , Ma Jinmiao , Xu Xuezhen , Li Qingyang , Yang Qingqing
Published: February 2025

(A) Schematic of the route for synthesizing AIEPMs. (B) The AIEPMs-ICA for visual and quantitative dual-modal detection of ZEN.
Electric Field Manipulated Magnetic Spin Coupling Properties in Lithium-Trapped Nitrogen-Vacancy Nanodiamond
Authors: Li Zhuxiao , Zhang Zhiru , Bu Yuxiang , Song Xinyu
Published: February 2025

The nitrogen-vacancy (NV) defect center in diamond is highly promising for various applications, including quantum state engineering and magnetic sensing, particularly when doped with heteroatoms. Lithium can be readily incorporated...
Efficient “depolymerization-polymerization” closed-loop recycling strategy for selective-degradation of polycaprolactone
Authors: Cai Chaoyi , Ma Jiaming , Liang Xiuzhu , Zhang Shuyan , Zhang Heng , Zhang Congyun , Zhang Shuidong
Published: February 2025

Unlike landfill biodegradation, thermal recycling, and downcycling, the adopted “depolymerization-polymerization” closed-loop recycling strategy offers a more sustainable, resource-efficient, and environmentally protective solution for waste polymer treatment. However, selective depolymerization of...
Preparation of different phase structure nano sized FePO4/C cathode material by ultrasonic-assisting and their electrochemical performance
Authors: Tang Chunmei , Ma Wei , Huo Jichuan , Liu Shuxin
Published: February 2025

Nano-sized FePO4·2H2O/C and FePO4/C cathode materials with different phase composition were prepared by carbon black preoxidation and ultrasonic-assisting technique. Among all samples, amorphous structure has the best electrochemical performance.
Intrinsic Interlayer Electric Field Induced Switched Regulatory Mechanisms of Photovoltaics and Photocatalysis in Z-scheme In2Se3/Sb Heterobilayer
Authors: Wang Qiang , Han Keying , Liang Yan , Lv Xingshuai , Xiangrong meng , Frauenheim Thomas , Guo Defeng , Wang Bin , Wang Sheng
Published: February 2025

Two-dimensional (2D) van der Waals heterobilayers (vdWHs) with staggered band alignments are conducive to interlayer carrier separation, making them promising for solar energy conversion. However, These vdWHs exhibit two distinct...
Effect of methyl DNA adducts on 3’-5’ exonuclease activity of human TREX1
Authors: Tuti Nikhil , Shaji Unnikrishnan P , Das Susmita , Anindya Roy
Published: February 2025

Three-prime repair exonuclease 1 (TREX1) is a 3’-5’ exonuclease that plays an important role in clearing cytoplasmic DNA. Additionally, TREX1 is translocated to the nucleus after DNA damage and assists in DNA repair. In this work, we evaluated the activity of TREX1 in the context of the removal of methyl DNA adducts. We observed that TREX1 was less efficient at degrading MMS-treated methylated DNA compared to normal DNA. Two methyl DNA adducts, N1-methyl Adenine and N3-methyl Cytosine, were found to block TREX1 exonuclease activity. To understand the mechanism of limited TREX1-mediated degradation of MMS-damaged DNA, stem-loop substrates containing solitary methyl adducts were prepared. We found that when the solitary methyl adducts were present at the 3’-terminal single-stranded overhang, it prevented degradation by TREX1. However, TREX1 could efficiently process internally located duplex DNA methyl adducts when the 3’-termnal of the scissile strand was damage-free. Broadly, these observations suggest that TREX1 may be capable of resecting methyl adducts containing DNA but it appears might be less proficient at removing 3'-terminal DNA methyl adducts.
Design and Synthesis of Novel Piperidine Urea Derivatives with Neuroprotective Properties
Authors: Li Jiayi , Wang Mengfei , Jiang Ling , Peng Xinyan , Han Bo , Zhang Qingwei
Published: February 2025

Ischemic stroke remains the leading cause of death worldwide, and in experimental studies of ischemic stroke, neuroprotective agents may display good efficacy. In our previous work, Fenazinel showed promising neuroprotective effects and entered phase I clinical trials in China. However, some side effects have limited its further study. To explore novel neuroprotective agents with higher potency and lower cardiotoxicity, in this work, a series of Fenazinel derivatives with piperidine urea groups (A1–A13) were designed and synthesized. The neuroprotective effect of A1–A13 was evaluated in human neuroblastoma cells (SH-SY5Y) by assessing cell survivals, and then in a rat model of middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) by assessing the cerebral infarction area. The hERG (human ether-a-go-go-related gene) inhibitory activity was conducted to predict the cardiotoxicity of compounds. The hypoxia tolerance assay of mice was assessed by determining the survival time of mice in a sealed bottle. Our experimental data suggested that among the compounds, compound A10 demonstrated superior protective activity against SH-SY5Y cells at different concentrations, lower cytotoxicity compared with Fenazinel, and additionally, a weak cardiotoxicity (hERG IC50 > 40 μmol/L). Compound A10 not only effectively prolonged the survival time of mice, but also significantly reduced the percentage of cerebral infarction in MCAO rats with a dose-dependent tendency. In summary, this paper provides a reference for the rational structural medication of Fenazinel to reduce cardiotoxicity and finds compound A10 with better neuroprotective activity.
Skull Base Rhabdomyosarcoma Mimicking Osteomyelitis in a Pediatric Patient
Authors: Adelman Avraham , Richardson Landon , Chapurin Nikita , Lobo Brian C , Chen Si
Published: February 2025

Background: Rhabdomyosarcoma is a rare malignant tumor, affecting 4.58 per 1 million children, with approximately 35% occurring in the head and neck. Skull base RMS commonly presents at advanced stages and delays diagnosis due to its overlapping features with other skull base pathology, and difficulty accessing the lesion for biopsy. This case illustrates these challenges in skull base RMS mimicking osteomyelitis of the petrous apex.

Case: A 6-year-old immunocompetent female, with history of two acute otitis media episodes, presented with a 3-week history of sixth cranial nerve palsy and sudden-onset complete seventh cranial nerve palsy. She did not have pain or otorrhea. Computed Tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging revealed a 1.3 cm left petrous apex enhancing lesion with extension into the mastoid and clivus with surrounding bony and soft tissue destruction. Nuclear medicine scan (Technetium-99m followed by gallium) demonstrated avid uptake in the left petrous apex. The working diagnosis was skull base osteomyelitis, for which the patient received 2.5 weeks of antibiotics. After failing to improve, repeat imaging showed significant progression of the disease and extension into the nasopharynx and sphenoid sinus. An endoscopic trans-sphenoidal biopsy was performed with pathology consistent with rhabdomyosarcoma. CT chest revealed lung metastases. The patient partially responded to chemotherapy with vincristine, actinomycin-D, and cyclophosphamide alternating with vincristine and irinotecan. During week 13 of chemotherapy, she received concomitant proton therapy to a total dose of 5040 cGyRBE. Five months after diagnosis, she developed leptomeningeal spread, which was further complicated by meningitis, and passed away.
Reversible endoscopic gastroduodenal bypass: Endoscopic ultrasound-guided gastro-jejunostomy with pyloric exclusion for the treatment of persistent duodenal leaks after failed surgical repair
Authors: Kadkhodayan Kambiz , Chandan Saurabh , Viana Artur , Hayat Maham , Cosgrove Natalie , Arain Mustafa A , Jain Deepanshu , Abassi Abdullah , Pathak Sagar , Yang Dennis , Hasan Muhammad Khalid , Rosales Armando , Redan Jay , Irani Shayan
Published: February 2025

Background: Post-surgical leaks following surgical repair of acute duodenal perforations carry high mortality. Reversible endoscopic gastroduodenal bypass (REGB) is a novel procedure that helps divert the acid-rich gastric stream away from the affected duodenum to promote tissue healing at the ulcer site.
Methods: REGB is a single-session, two-step procedure involving the creation of an EUS-guided gastrojejunostomy using a lumen-apposing metal stent, followed by endosuturing and closure of the pylorus to achieve complete duodenal bypass. The outcomes of REGB and its reversal were prospectively evaluated in six patients with persistent post-surgical duodenal leaks.
Results: REGB was technically successful in all six patients (100%) with no procedure-related adverse events. All patients resumed oral intake within 3 days, experienced significant reductions in surgical drain output, and were discharged. One patient with metastatic breast cancer did not undergo REGB reversal. Amongst five patients who underwent REGB-reversal after a mean of 52.6 days, technical success was achieved in all 5 patients (100%), with complete healing of duodenal ulcers, absence of leaks on fluoroscopy, and resumption of a solid food diet.
Conclusion: REGB is a technically feasible, reversible, and minimally invasive alternative for managing post-surgical duodenal leaks. Further studies are needed to validate its safety and efficacy.