bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A New Polar Representation and Identities for Split Leonardo Quaternions
Authors: Atasoy Ali
Published: February 2025

In this study, we define split Leonardo quaternion sequences with components involving Leonardo numbers. We give fundamental properties and identities associated with split Leonardo quaternions, such as Binet's formula, as well as identities attributed to Catalan, Cassini, and d'Ocagne. Furthermore, we introduce an innovative concept: polar representation for these split quaternions using Cayley Dickson's notation. This alternative representation provides a new perspective on the structure of split Leonardo quaternions and give a deeper understanding of their geometric interpretations and transformations.
Design and Development of Dual Polarized Conjugate Matched Feed for Satellite Communications
Authors: Ram Raksha , Dey Ranajit , Singh Vijay Kumar , Kulshrestha Sanjeev , Mahajan Milind B.
Published: February 2025

Conjugate matched feed supresses secondary cross‐pol of offset reflector by utilizing higher order mode (TE21) along with fundamental mode (TE11) in a circular feed itself. In this paper, physically realizable stable co‐axial structure of TE21 mode coupler and co‐axial horn were designed and tested for dual polarization applications. The procedure for designing of co‐axial horn for maintaining phase difference between the modes is also discussed. The secondary pattern of the matched feed with offset reflector having F/D of 0.7 and 45° offset angle for dual linear polarization was analyzed using physical optics (PO) in GRASP (Ticra tool). The observation revealed 7 dB improvement in the secondary cross‐polar performance for both polarizations using matched feed as compared to TE11 feed over 7.8% bandwidth. The primary measurement of the feed alone was carried out in an anechoic chamber, and the measured primary pattern was compared with the simulated value. The designed feed could be an alternative of dual reflector antenna used in satellite communications.
ISAR Imaging Simulation for Low‐Angle Targets in the Troposphere Based on Ray Tracing Method
Authors: Yu Hongxin , Liao Cheng , Feng Ju , Du Wei , Zhong Xuanming
Published: February 2025

This letter proposes a novel model for inverse synthetic aperture radar (ISAR) imaging of low‐angle targets in the troposphere using echoes simulated by the ray tracing method (RTM). The proposed approach integrates the electromagnetic (EM) wave propagation model with radar imaging techniques to account for the influence of environmental factors, such as atmospheric refraction and ground multipath, on ISAR imaging. First, a spherical multipath calculation method based on the RTM is proposed to acquire path parameters. Subsequently, an environmental transfer function, incorporating path parameters, antenna pattern, and surface characteristics, is created and combined with the target reflectivity function to generate the echo data matrix. Range‐Doppler (RD) processing is then applied to obtain the target's ISAR image. Finally, a typical example is given to validate the correctness and effectiveness of the multipath calculation method. Meanwhile, simulation analysis of ISAR images for an aircraft in flight in a tropospheric environment is conducted. Results indicate that the proposed method effectively predicts the impact of the tropospheric environment on ISAR imaging of low‐angle targets.
Miniaturized Wideband Single‐Layer CP Metasurface Antenna Using CPW‐Fed
Authors: Xia Zuxue , Xiong Xin , Xia Wenhai , Cao Xin , Hu Jiayuan , Cheng Rui
Published: February 2025

A novel miniaturized wideband single‐layer circularly polarized metasurface antenna using coplanar waveguide (CPW)‐fed and hybrid metasurface is proposed. To miniaturize the metasurface antenna, a hybrid embedded metasurface structure composed of multiple slotted rectangles and small rectangles is introduced. By embedding the metallic patches, additional capacitance is introduced in the gaps, which lowers the resonance frequency of the metasurface and significantly reduces its size. Circularly polarized radiation is realized as the inclined CPW feeder excites the degenerate modes of the hybrid metasurface, which exhibit a 90° phase difference. In conclusion, the metasurface antenna is fabricated and measured to confirm the validity of the design. The antenna has a compact radiation aperture of 0.39λ0 × 0.49λ0 (center frequency of 5.82 GHz), a wider 3 dB AR bandwidth of 17.1% (5.31 ~ 6.30 GHz), and a wider impedance bandwidth of 24.8% (4.93 ~ 6.33 GHz), with a peak gain of 7.7 dBic.
In‐Line Bandpass Filters With Flexible Transmission Zero Distribution Using Asymmetric Dual‐Behavior Resonators
Authors: Xiao Lunyong , Cheng Lan , Kong Yifan , He Yuxing
Published: February 2025

We propose in this letter an analytical method for realizing bandpass filters with N reflection zeros (RZs) but more than N transmission zeros (TZs) that are flexibly (symmetrically or asymmetrically) positioned outside the passband. The approach relies on the development of asymmetric dual‐behavior resonators at lowpass domain, accommodating one reflection zero (RZ) and two asymmetric TZs. These asymmetric DBRs are then properly adopted into an in‐line prototype, allowing them to be cascaded with conventional resonators via constant or frequency‐variant couplings. To provide a planar solution, we also introduce practical distributed models of the asymmetric DBRs where all elements are properly determined to meet the required in‐band and out‐of‐band performances. For validation, an experimental example is carried out with microstrip implementation, along with reasonable responses.
Fully Planar Endfire Circularly Polarized Antenna of Substrate Integrated Waveguide Loaded With Planar Bending Dipole
Authors: Yin Yifan , He Jin , Ge Feiyu , Bao Shuo , Li Shunli , Wu Ke
Published: February 2025

This paper proposes a fully planar endfire circularly polarized (CP) antenna on a single‐layer substrate, consisting of a substrate‐integrated waveguide (SIW) loaded with a bending dipole. The SIW horn, which can be directly integrated with RF circuits, could generate high‐gain vertically polarized (VP) radiation. The novel bending dipole is actually a traveling‐wave helical dipole radiator and could generate high‐gain horizontally polarized (HP) radiation. The bending dipole is fed by the SIW horn with a tapered parallel stripline. The mechanism and design method of the proposed antenna is presented, and its experimental prototype has been designed and measured. The measured impedance bandwidth of −10 dB covers a bandwidth of 2.4 GHz from 25.3 to 27.7 GHz, the 3‐dB axial ratio (AR) bandwidth is 2.4 GHz from 24.9 to 27.3 GHz, and the effective bandwidth is from 25.3 to 27.3 GHz. The measured CP gain is over 7.3 dBic and the peak gain is 9.1 dBic in the effective bandwidth. The high gain planar endfire CP antenna has a compact size of only 3.06λ0*1.2λ0*0.13λ0.
Bundling and Pricing Strategies in Crowdfunding
Authors: Wang Lu , Wang Xue , Wei Hang
Published: February 2025

As an effective financing tool, crowdfunding helps entrepreneurs raise funds from the crowd and start innovative projects. Creators must carefully choose the mechanism and pricing strategy to maximize expected profit. When promoting multiple products, they shall decide whether to run a single bundled campaign (bundle funding) or two separate campaigns, each focusing on one product (separate funding). A two‐period model has been used to compare two mechanisms and several pricing policies for all‐or‐nothing (AoN) reward‐based crowdfunding campaigns. Separate funding leverages the advantage of spreading risk among multiple projects, especially if the distribution of backers' valuations is skewed. The bundling strategy can capture a more significant return if the fractions of different backers are balanced. However, in crowdfunding, creators often offer multiple price options to match different buyer preferences and boost the success rate. The menu pricing strategy of separate funding achieves a higher expected profit than bundle funding in significant parameter subspaces by spreading the risk and stimulating each project's pledging. For asymmetric bundling, separate funding may not be optimal if product heterogeneity is high. However, if the firm can adopt different pricing strategies for different products in separate funding, separate funding weakly dominates bundle funding. This study compares social welfare across different mechanisms and pricing strategies, explores the impact of complements and substitutes, and incorporates intertemporal pricing to reinforce the robustness of the findings.
Association between maternal history of mental illness and neurodevelopment of children during the first 3 years: The Japan Environment and Children's Study
Authors: Ohara Nobuki , Mitsuda Naomi , Yamasaki Keiko , Eitoku Masamitsu , Suganuma Narufumi , Komatsu Shizuka , Kazui Hiroaki , Takahashi Hidetoshi ,   and the Japan Environment and Children's Study
Published: February 2025

Aim

The impact of maternal mental illness on children's neurodevelopment has been insufficiently investigated, particularly in large populations. In this study, we examined the association between maternal mental health history and child neurodevelopment during the first 3 years postpartum, using large‐scale data from the Japan Environment and Children's Study (JECS).

Methods

We analyzed data from 64,389 mother–offspring pairs enrolled in JECS. Maternal history of mental illness was assessed using questionnaires administered during early pregnancy. Child neurodevelopment was assessed at ages 1, 2, and 3 years by mothers or guardians using the Japanese version of the Ages and Stages Questionnaires, 3rd Edition (J‐ASQ‐3), across five domains. In this study, we employed multivariate logistic regression analysis.

Results

Children whose mothers have a history of mental illness exhibited significantly higher risks of developmental delays in gross motor skills and problem‐solving domains at age 1, and across all J‐ASQ‐3 domains at ages 2 and 3, compared to those whose mothers do not have such a history.

Conclusion

Our findings indicate that children born to mothers with a history of mental illness may exhibit early neurodevelopmental delays in gross motor skills and problem‐solving as early as age 1 year, potentially leading to broader neurodevelopmental impairments observed in later childhood. Additionally, childcare support aimed at enhancing neurodevelopment may be essential for mothers with a history of mental illness within the first year postpartum.
Metaheuristic multi‐objective optimization for ring‐opening branched copolymerization of L‐lactide
Authors: Paul Geetu P. , Nagajyothi Virivinti , Mitra Kishalay
Published: February 2025

Polylactide (PLA) synthesis plays a pivotal role in promoting sustainability through its applications in biodegradable packaging and medical devices. However, optimizing PLA production is a multi‐objective NP‐hard problem, requiring a delicate balance between conflicting objective functions such as maximizing average molecular weight, conversion rate, and degree of branching, while minimizing the monomer/inimer ratio, monomer/catalyst ratio, polydispersity index, and processing time. Therefore, this study addresses these challenges by utilizing the Elitist Non‐dominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm II (NSGA‐II) to optimize the ring‐opening copolymerization of L‐lactide with 5‐hydroxymethyl‐1,4‐dioxane‐2‐one (5HDON) within the constraints. The optimization formulation yielded significant improvements in key parameters through four distinct case studies, achieving maximum values of Mn, Mw, conversion, and DB at 2800, 5630, 0.95, and 0.29, respectively, surpassing experimental results. Similarly, the minimization process effectively reduced M/C, M/I, and PDI to 4500, 70/30, and 1.35, respectively, within a reaction time of 0.2 hours. The results underscore the potential of this approach to enhance process efficiency and product performance, contributing to more sustainable consumption and production practices.

Highlights

Optimized branched L‐lactide/5HDON copolymer for diverse case studies

NSGA‐II optimizes polymer properties for improved performance.

Resultant Pareto Front presents the associated values of each decision variable.

The Pareto front is categorized by specific processing parameter ranges.

The obtained pareto optimal solution is compared with model result.
RNA‐Seq and ChIP‐Seq Identification of Unique and Overlapping Target Genes and Pathways Regulated by TBX4 in Human Pulmonary Fibroblasts and Pericytes
Authors: Cai Ying , Yan Ling , Cogan Joy D. , Hedges Lora K. , Nunley Bethany , Negretti Nick , Sucre Jennifer M. S. , West James , Austin Eric D. , Hamid Rizwan
Published: February 2025

Transcription factor TBX4 rare variants associate with pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), particularly in children, and are the second most common cause of heritable PAH. However, TBX4's down‐stream targets and the molecular and cellular pathways these targets regulate remain largely unknown in PAH. We combined RNA‐seq and ChIP‐seq results to identify TBX4 direct targets in lung fibroblasts and pericytes, respectively. There were 555 genes with altered expression with TBX4 knockdown in both fibroblasts and pericytes by RNA‐seq, and which also were found to be bound by TBX4 by ChIP‐seq. Gene ontology analysis found that these were dominated by genes related to extracellular matrix, actin organization, and migration guidance, although there were also significant groups related to serine/threonine kinase signaling, GTPase mediated signaling, and glycoprotein metabolism. Migration and proliferation studies using TBX4 knockdown fibroblasts confirmed functional effects. These studies provide the first insights into how genes and pathways regulated by TBX4 are impacted and inform future studies about the key biological processes that lead to PAH in patients who carry pathologic TBX4 rare variants.
Identification and Estimation of the Average Causal Effects Under Dietary Substitution Strategies
Authors: Chiu Yu‐Han , Wen Lan
Published: February 2025

The 2020–2025 Dietary Guidelines suggest that most people can improve their diet by making some changes to what they eat and drink. In many cases, these changes involve simple substitutions. For instance, the Dietary Guidelines recommend choosing chicken instead of processed red meat to reduce sodium intake and switching from refined grains to whole grains to increase dietary fiber intake. The question about such dietary substitution strategies seeks to estimate the average counterfactual outcome under a hypothetical intervention that replaces a food an individual would have consumed in the absence of intervention with a healthier substitute. In this work, we will show the conditions under which the average causal effects of substitution strategies can be non‐parametrically identified, and provide efficient estimators for our proposed dietary substitution strategies. We evaluate the performance of our proposed methods via simulation studies and apply them to estimate the effect of substituting processed red meat with chicken on mortality, using data from the Nurses' Health Study.
A Comparison of Statistical Methods for Time‐To‐Event Analyses in Randomized Controlled Trials Under Non‐Proportional Hazards
Authors: Klinglmüller Florian , Fellinger Tobias , König Franz , Friede Tim , Hooker Andrew C. , Heinzl Harald , Mittlböck Martina , Brugger Jonas , Bardo Maximilian , Huber Cynthia , Benda Norbert , Posch Martin , Ristl Robin
Published: February 2025

While well‐established methods for time‐to‐event data are available when the proportional hazards assumption holds, there is no consensus on the best inferential approach under non‐proportional hazards (NPH). However, a wide range of parametric and non‐parametric methods for testing and estimation in this scenario have been proposed. To provide recommendations on the statistical analysis of clinical trials where non‐proportional hazards are expected, we conducted a simulation study under different scenarios of non‐proportional hazards, including delayed onset of treatment effect, crossing hazard curves, subgroups with different treatment effects, and changing hazards after disease progression. We assessed type I error rate control, power, and confidence interval coverage, where applicable, for a wide range of methods, including weighted log‐rank tests, the MaxCombo test, summary measures such as the restricted mean survival time (RMST), average hazard ratios, and milestone survival probabilities, as well as accelerated failure time regression models. We found a trade‐off between interpretability and power when choosing an analysis strategy under NPH scenarios. While analysis methods based on weighted logrank tests typically were favorable in terms of power, they do not provide an easily interpretable treatment effect estimate. Also, depending on the weight function, they test a narrow null hypothesis of equal hazard functions, and rejection of this null hypothesis may not allow for a direct conclusion of treatment benefit in terms of the survival function. In contrast, non‐parametric procedures based on well‐interpretable measures like the RMST difference had lower power in most scenarios. Model‐based methods based on specific survival distributions had larger power; however, often gave biased estimates and lower than nominal confidence interval coverage. The application of the studied methods is illustrated in a case study with reconstructed data from a phase III oncologic trial.
Recent Advances on Porous Biochar: From Production to Remediation of Organic Pollutants from Water and Future Perspectives
Authors: Wang Dongchenyi , Li Haixia , Zuo Junyuan , Li Xintong , Liu Xiao , Cai Jinjun
Published: February 2025

Organic pollutants in aqueous pose a serious threat toward ecosystems and human health, marking them as a pressing global environmental issue. In response to this urgent challenge, scientists have been pursuing efficient methods to minimize their presence, and biochar has been regarded as a promising material. Although some studies have been reported by using biochar to address a specific pollutant, they still lack systematic analysis for biochar synthesis and removal mechanisms for a broad spectrum of pollutants. This paper aims to present a review on recent advances in biochar synthesis and removal of dyes, antibiotics, and pesticides via adsorption and oxidative degradation. The focus is to rationalize factors that control pore size, functional groups, and removal ability as function of feedstocks and synthetic conditions, and temperature is identified as the most critical factor. Modifications, such as doping heteroatoms and metals, are important to enhance the removal ability of biochar. The challenges and opportunities for future biochar exploration are discussed, hoping to inspire more researchers to participate in this fascinating area.
High‐Efficiency Photocatalytic Hydrogen Peroxide Production on BiOCl/BiOBr Heterojunction
Authors: Zhang Qing , Xie Yan , Fu Hanping , Ren Shufen , Cheng Jiayun , Liang Qingshuang , Xiao Xiufeng
Published: February 2025

Photocatalytic hydrogen peroxide production is considered an important technology for alleviating environmental problems and energy scarcity at present. In this work, a series of BiOCl/BiOBr Z‐type heterojunctions were successfully synthesized by a facile one‐step method. The successful formation of the heterostructure was confirmed through techniques such as XRD, SEM, HRTEM, FTIR, and XPS. Notably, the heterojunction exhibited significantly enhanced photocatalytic performance in hydrogen peroxide production. The best performing sample (BiOCl/BiOBr 2:8) showed the highest hydrogen peroxide concentration of 10.8 mmol/L. PL and EIS results demonstrated the crucial role of the heterojunction in promoting charge transfer and separation during the photocatalytic process, and retaining the strong redox ability of electrons/holes on different active sites. The free radical trapping experiments results and electron spin resonance spectra demonstrated that photocatalytic pathway of the as‐prepared heterojunctions was in the dual‐channel route, from both oxygen reduction and water oxidation. This work might provide a reliable strategy for photocatalytic hydrogen peroxide production via photocatalysis.
All‐Solution‐Processable Hybrid Photothermoelectric Sensors with Carbon Nanotube Absorbers and Bismuth Composite Electrodes for Nondestructive Testing
Authors: Matsuzaki Yuto , Tadenuma Reiji , Aoshima Yuto , Yamamoto Minami , Takai Leo , Kon Yukito , Sakai Daiki , Takahashi Norika , Koshimizu Ryo , Zhang Qi , Hagiwara Naoko , Sun Meiling , Shikichi Daiki , Ota Raito , Hirokawa Sayaka , Kawano Yukio , Li Kou
Published: February 2025

While photothermoelectric (PTE) sensor sheets are potentially suitable for testing applications, such as nondestructive material identifications in ultrabroad millimeter‐wave infrared bands, their device designs have primarily employed a single‐material channel. Herein, PTE sensor sheets generally combine photoinduced heating with associated thermoelectric (TE) conversion phenomena, and the employment of a single‐material channel regulates device operations by missing opportunities for fully utilizing their fundamental parameters. For this situation, this work develops all‐solution‐processable and freely coatable (paintable) hybrid PTE sensors by an effective combination of the channel structure with bismuth composite (Bicom) TE electrodes (Seebeck coefficient > 100 μV K−1) and efficient carbon nanotube film photothermal absorbers. This hybrid PTE sensor device stably forms its TE electrodes as easy‐to‐handle pastes of Bicom material powders with high Seebeck coefficients by effectively employing conductive solvents and surfactants. Following these material and process preparations, the hybrid PTE sensor functions in ultrabroadband regions beyond the conventional detectors with comparable sensitivities to the existing narrowband devices in individual ranges and provides diverse optical measurement opportunities. Indeed, the easy‐to‐handle device fabrication process and advantageous photodetection performances of the hybrid PTE sensor demonstrate high usability for nondestructive testing applications (noncontact inspections, panoramic 3D camera monitoring, and portable device setups).
Modulating Band Offset through Interface Engineering of Cu2SnSe3‐Based Heterojunctions for Efficient Charge Separation and Collection
Authors: Borkar Durgesh R. , Mandal Animesh , Jadhav Yogesh. A. , Eya Henry I. , Kolekar Sadhu , Kahaly Mousumi Upadhyay , Samu Gergely Ferenc , Gouda Girish M. , Rondiya Sachin R.
Published: February 2025

Cu₂SnSe₃ (CTSe) shows promise due to its wide solar absorption and tunable band gap, though low efficiency caused by interface recombination and crystallinity issues remains a challenge. In this study, a systematic and facile synthesis method for CTSe nanoparticles (NPs) is demonstrated, accompanied by an in‐depth analysis of their growth mechanisms. A comprehensive experimental and theoretical investigation is conducted to explore the structural, compositional, optoelectronic, and band alignment properties of p‐type CTSe NPs as a solar absorber, along with n‐type CdSe and ZnSe NPs as buffer layers. Additionally, the band edge positions of the synthesized NPs are estimated using cyclic voltammetry (CV), UV photoelectron spectroscopy (UPS), and density functional theory (DFT), enabling the modulation of band offsets through interface engineering. The investigation revealed a staggered type‐II band alignment at the CTSe/CdSe heterojunction, characterized by a minimal conduction band offset (CBO) of 0.06 eV. The findings from CV and UPS measurement supported by density functional theory‐based calculations, suggests effective charge carrier separation and transport at the interface. The CTSe/CdSe heterojunction exhibited Schottky I–V characteristics, demonstrating a current of 1 mA in dark conditions. These findings demonstrate CTSe NPs' potential as an efficient absorber in thin‐film solar cells, addressing interface recombination losses and improving performance.
The Role of High Magnetic Fields in the Evolution of Microstructure and Mechanical Properties in Medium Manganese Steel
Authors: Zhang Dong , Hou Tingping , Zhou Jie , Cheng Shi , Zheng Yihang , Wu Kaiming
Published: February 2025

The influence of the external magnetic field on the microstructures and mechanical properties of medium manganese steel during tempering is investigated. Microstructural analysis reveals that a high magnetic field accelerates martensite recovery, and the width of martensitic laths increased by 150% and 130% after tempering at 200 or 500 °C, respectively. This phenomenon is likely attributed to the magnetic field influence on elevating the diffusion activation energy. Dislocation motion is accelerated due to the magnetic field, leading to dislocation accumulation. The dislocation provides more nucleation sites for the carbide precipitation compared to without the magnetic field. Furthermore, a magnetic field triggers carbide precipitation, with rod‐shaped transforming into spherical ones. The mechanical properties of specimens after tempering with a magnetic field are slightly higher than those of the specimens tempered without a magnetic field, which is due to the synergistic effect of the precipitation and dislocation motion. Special attention has been paid to emphasizing the medium‐temperature tempering brittleness that arises from the precipitation and micro‐voids along martensite lath and prior austenite grain boundaries. The mechanism of a magnetic field‐induced transformation is further explored in this study, which has important theoretical and practical implications for the creation of advanced steel materials.
Potential Use of Yam Starch: Thermal Protection of Tea Tree Essential Oil Encapsulated by Electrospinning
Authors: Souza Estefania Júlia Dierings de , Santos Felipe Nardo dos , Pires Juliani Buchveitz , Cruz Elder Pacheco da , Fonseca Laura Martins , Gandra Eliezer Avila , Dias Alvaro Renato Guerra , Zavareze Elessandra da Rosa
Published: February 2025

Encapsulation of essential oils may broaden their application in the food chain by promoting their protection. Thus, starch ultrafine fibers are effective green vehicles to increase the thermal stability of bioactive compounds. The objective of this study was to evaluate the antimicrobial activity of tea tree essential oil (TTEO) and perform its encapsulation in yam starch ultrafine fibers by electrospinning. The TTEO was evaluated by chemical composition, thermal properties, and antimicrobial action against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus bacteria. The ultrafine fibers containing TTEO were evaluated by morphology, size distribution, water contact angle, Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectra, thermal properties, and loading capacity (LC). The main compounds of TTEO were 4‐terpineol (49.13%) and α‐terpineol (11.46%). The free TTEO presented inhibition zones ranging from approximately 5 to 20 mm for E. coli and S. aureus bacteria. The polymeric solutions presented a maximum electrical conductivity of 3.44 mS·cm−1 and pseudoplastic behavior by rheological measurements. The ultrafine fibers containing TTEO displayed continuous morphology, mean diameters ranging from 187 to 231 nm, and LC ranging from 12.1% to 13.4%. The increase in TTEO concentration in the ultrafine fibers promoted an increase in the contact angle with water, reducing its hydrophilicity. Yam starch ultrafine fibers are a promising structure for the encapsulation of TTEO, increasing its thermal stability for future applications in the food chain.
Quantifying and characterizing major DOC fractions in water treatment processes: A simplified SPE method without recovering sorbed compounds
Authors: Mirzaei Saeideh , Gorczyca Beata
Published: February 2025

Practitioners often use specific UV254 absorption (SUVA) as an indicator of hydrophobic (HPO) dissolved organic carbon (DOC) to evaluate removal efficiency and estimate trihalomethane formation potential (THMFP). However, current fractionation methods, such as solid‐phase extraction (SPE), primarily focus on recovering sorbed compounds, and assume that treatment impacts only the quantity, not the characteristics, of DOC fractions. Additionally, varying recovery rates and inconsistent fractionation pH definitions complicate cross‐study comparisons of hydrophilic and HPO DOC composition. To address these issues, we tested three pH fractionation approaches (pH 3, pH 7, and sequential adjustment) and observed significant differences in DOC content, SUVA, and specific THMFP (STHMFP) between SPE filtrates at pH 3 and pH 7, which were most likely because of ionizable acidic DOC compounds becoming HPO at lower pH levels.

Based on these findings, we developed a new fractionation method to estimate the quantity and characteristics of major DOC fractions—hydrophilic neutral (HPIN), total acidic (TA = HPOA + HPIA), and hydrophobic neutral (HPON)—without the need to recover sorbed fractions. Applying this method in a conventional coagulation/softening plant revealed HPON decreased while the relative amounts of HPI and TA increased after the treatment. However, the treated water HPI exhibited significantly higher STHMFP and contained approximately twice the proportion of low‐molecular‐weight compounds than raw water HPI, highlighting significant changes in both the content and properties of DOC fractions throughout the treatment process. Our study indicates that the contribution of HPI DOC fraction to SUVA and STHMFP in treated water is greater than that of HPO DOC.

Practitioner Points

A two‐stage ENV to estimate major DOC fractions without recovering sorbed compounds.

One ENV cartridge at pH 3 can effectively isolate HPI DOC, replacing sequential ENV.

Coagulation and lime/soda softening altered characteristics of DOC fractions.

HPI DOC in treated water contributes to SUVA and STHMFP more than HPO fraction.
Ernährungskonzepte für Säuglinge, Kinder und Jugendliche: Entwicklung und Bedeutung
Authors: Kalhoff Hermann , Kersting Mathilde , Lücke Thomas
Published: February 2025

Eine gesunde Ernährung von Anfang an ist eine wichtige Voraussetzung für Gesundheit, Wachstum, Entwicklung und Leistungsfähigkeit. Gesunde Ernährung im Kindes- und Jugendalter kann darüber hinaus zur Prävention weit verbreiteter Krankheiten im Erwachsenenalter beitragen. Mit den am Forschungsdepartment für Kinderernährung (FKE) entwickelten lebensmittel- und mahlzeitenbasierten Ernährungskonzepten, dem Ernährungsplan für das 1. Lebensjahr und der sich nahtlos anschließenden Optimierten Mischkost für Kinder und Jugendliche (einschließlich entsprechender Speisepläne), liegen wissenschaftlich basierte, international publizierte, praktisch bewährte, einfach vermittelbare und nachhaltige Ernährungskonzepte für das gesamte Wachstumsalter vor. Die leicht verständlichen semiquantitativen Empfehlungen und grafischen Darstellungen der Ernährungskonzepte erleichtern den Transfer der Empfehlungen in die Bevölkerung; darüber hinaus richten die Konzepte sich an Entscheidungsträger. Diese Konzepte bilden die Grundlage zur Beratung der Familien durch Kinder- und Jugendärzt:innen und Ernährungsfachkräfte.
Presence of Nematodes, Mercury Concentrations, and Liver Pathology in Carnivorous Freshwater Fish from La Mojana, Sucre, Colombia: Assessing Fish Health and Potential Human Health Risks
Authors: Fuentes-Lopez Katerin , Olivero-Verbel Jesus , Caballero-Gallardo Karina
Published: February 2025

Fish provide high-quality protein and essential nutrients. However, environmental pollution can lead to the accumulation of toxic substances such as mercury (Hg), with known negative impacts on human consumers. The aim of this study was to assess fish health and potential human health risks by analyzing the presence of nematodes, Hg concentrations, and liver pathology in freshwater fish from La Mojana, Colombia. For this purpose, 326 specimens were collected. Parasitic infection was evaluated using parasitological indices. Total Hg (T-Hg) was quantified using a direct mercury analyzer. Liver pathology was assessed through histopathological examination. Risk-based fish consumption limits were established by calculating the hazard quotient (HQ) and safe consumption limits. The overall prevalence and abundance of nematodes (Contracaecum sp.) were 46% and 2.72 ± 0.47 parasites/fish, respectively. Sternopygus macrurus exhibited the highest prevalence (100%) and parasite abundance (13.5 parasites/fish) during the rainy season, whereas Hoplias malabaricus demonstrated the greatest prevalence (100%) and abundance (14.8 parasites/fish) in the dry season. The average T-Hg was 0.31 ± 0.01 µg/g ww. During the rainy season, S. macrurus had the highest T-Hg levels (0.46 ± 0.08 µg/g ww); in the dry season, Cynopotamus magdalenae showed the highest T-Hg concentration (0.54 ± 0.03 µg/g ww). Significant positive relationships were recorded between T-Hg and parasite abundance, while these were negative with the condition factor. All specimens exhibited hepatic alterations. The HQ and Hg values suggest potential health risks from frequent fish consumption, especially in fish-dependent communities. These findings highlight the need for precautionary measures by health and environmental authorities to safeguard human and ecosystem health.
Impact of myocardial scar burden on microvascular resistance reserve in patients with coronary artery disease
Authors: Hoshino Masahiro , Hoek Roel , Jukema Ruurt. A. , Dahdal Jorge , van Diemen Pepijn , Hopman Luuk H. G. A. , Raijmakers Pieter , Driessen Roel , Twisk Jos , Danad Ibrahim , Kakuta Tsunekazu , Knuuti Juhani , Knaapen Paul
Published: February 2025

Purpose

The impact of myocardial scar on coronary microcirculation is not well understood. This study aims to evaluate the association between microvascular resistance reserve (MRR) and scar tissue.

Methods

In this post-hoc analysis of the PACIFIC 2 trial, symptomatic patients with prior myocardial infarction (MI) and/or percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) underwent [15O]H2O positron emission tomography (PET), cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) imaging, and fractional flow reserve (FFR). MRR was assessed utilizing PET-derived coronary flow reserve and FFR measurements. Scar quantification was assessed by CMR late gadolinium enhancement (LGE). Vessel LGE burden was defined as the scar tissue proportion in each myocardial territory. Total LGE burden was defined as the proportion of overall scar.

Results

The study included 154 patients with 397 vessels with a mean MRR of 3.56 ± 1.24. Patients with any scar tissues (LGE > 0%) exhibited a lower MRR in every myocardial territory than those without scar tissues. After adjusting for cardiovascular risk factors, either vessel LGE burden (β =-0.013, P = 0.006) or total LGE burden (β =-0.039, P = 0.002) independently predicted a reduced MRR. Compared to myocardial territories without scar tissues (LGE burdens = 0%), MRR was significantly lower in myocardial territories with vessel LGE burden = 0% + total LGE burden > 0%, and in myocardial territories with both LGE burdens > 0%.

Conclusion

Scar burden was negatively associated with MRR in patients with prior MI and/or PCI. Our findings indicate that both the proportion of myocardial scar in the vascular territory and the overall myocardial scar affect the microcirculation of individual vascular territories.

Clinical trial number

Not applicable.
Denitrification in Agricultural Soils – Integrated control and Modelling at various scales (DASIM)
Authors: Kleineidam Kristina , Böttcher Jürgen , Butterbach-Bahl Klaus , Dannenmann Michael , Dittert Klaus , Dörsch Peter , Fiedler Sebastian , Frosch Torsten , Grosz Balázs , Henjes Sina , Horn Marcus A. , Ippisch Olaf , Jansen-Willems Anne , Kaiser Klaus , Kempe Miriam , Köster Jan Reent , Geers-Lucas Maik , Malique Franҫois , Matson Amanda , Merian Andreas , Mikutta Robert , Müller Carsten W. , Ramm Elisabeth , Rohe Lena , Rummel Pauline Sophie , Scheer Clemens , Schimpf Corinna M. , Schlüter Steffen , Schulze Johannes , Surey Ronny , Tenspolde Arne , van Dijk Hester , Vogel Hans-Jörg , Well Reinhard , Wrage-Mönnig Nicole , Yankelzon Irina , Zawallich Jan , Müller Christoph
Published: February 2025

The special issue summarises and highlights key findings of the research unit DASIM funded by the German Research Foundation (DFG) on the process of denitrification. Progress was made in several areas including the development of new and advanced methods to quantify N2 fluxes such as a new 15N gas flux method, enhanced Raman spectroscopy and a new incubation system to study plant-soil interactions in He-O2 atmosphere. Understanding of denitrification in disturbed and structured soil was gained by combining X-ray CT scanning and microbial ecology methods. High resolution models developed as part of DASIM were able to successfully simulate experimental data and provide valuable insights for the improvement of existing ecosystem models. Improved 15N tracing tools for the analysis of 15N tracing data in soil-plant systems have been developed that are extensively used by associated partners. DASIM brought together an interdisciplinary network of researchers interested in analytical but also modelling aspects. This includes close collaboration with the FAO/IAEA centre of Nuclear Techniques in Food and Agriculture of the United Nations which resulted in an open access book that describes the methods used in DASIM. The impact of the DASIM research unit on the scientific community is manifold and will most likely have a lasting impact on the understanding of nitrogen cycling in terrestrial ecosystems.
T2 high-signal-intensity zone of the spinal cord dorsal horn in patients treated with spinal cord stimulation for herpes zoster-associated pain: a retrospective case–control study
Authors: Arakawa Kyosuke , Nakagawa Masayuki , Abe Yoichiro , Morimatsu Hiroshi
Published: February 2025

Purpose

In patients with herpes zoster-associated pain (ZAP), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has revealed T2 high-signal intensity zones (MRI T2 HIZ) in the dorsal horn of the spinal cord, associated with postherpetic neuralgia (PHN). We retrospectively analyzed the relationship between PHN and MRI T2 HIZ in patients with refractory ZAP in the subacute phase who underwent temporary spinal cord stimulation therapy (tSCS).

Methods

This single-center, case–control study included patients who underwent tSCS for refractory ZAP between 2010 and 2018. MRIs were re-assessed for the presence of T2 HIZ in the dorsal horn of the spinal cord. Patients were divided into T2 HIZ( +) and T2 HIZ(−) groups. Patients with a numerical rating score (NRS) ≥ 3 at the last visit were defined as PHN. The NRS values and the incidence rate of PHN were compared between the two groups.

Results

Of the 67 cases extracted, 38 were included in the analysis: 22 in T2 HIZ( +) group and 16 in T2 HIZ(−) group. No significant differences were observed in background factors between the two groups. However, the T2 HIZ( +) group had a significantly higher NRS at the final visit (T2 HIZ( +):3.8 ± 2.1, T2 HIZ(−):1.4 ± 1.5; P < 0.05) and had significantly more patients with PHN than the T2 HIZ(−) group (T2 HIZ( +) vs. T2 HIZ(−), 15/22 (68%) vs. 3/16 (19%); odds ratio = 8.67; 95% confidence interval, 1.7–63.3).

Conclusion

T2HIZ is detected in more than half of refractory ZAP, and pain is more likely to remain after tSCS treatment in the T2HIZ( +) group.
Correlation between Sirtuin 1 downregulation and reduced vitamin D receptor expression in patients with diabetic neuropathy
Authors: Latini Andrea , De Benedittis Giada , Morgante Chiara , Gasperini Beatrice , D’Ippolito Ilenia , Lauro Davide , Novelli Giuseppe , Ciccacci Cinzia , Spallone Vincenza , Borgiani Paola
Published: February 2025

Aims

We aimed to analyse Sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) and Vitamin D receptor (VDR) expression levels in the peripheral blood of patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D), characterized for the presence of diabetic neuropathy (DN), and to evaluate possible genetic factors that could influence the VDR expression levels.

Methods

Fifty-one participants with T2D, who underwent neurological assessment for DN were recruited. We quantified the mRNA levels of SIRT1 and VDR in peripheral blood mononuclear cells. Moreover, we analysed the methylation status and the rs2228570 genetic variant of VDR promoter.

Results

Patients with DN (n = 32) showed lower expression of SIRT1 (pcorr=0.018) and VDR (pcorr=0.009), compared to those without DN. Furthermore, we observed a positive correlation between the mRNA levels of SIRT1 and VDR (p = 0.01). The expression levels of these genes negatively correlated with the score based on cardiovascular reflex tests (CARTs score). Moreover, the variant allele of rs2228570 in the VDR gene was associated with higher expression of this gene compared to the wild-type allele (p = 0.003).

Conclusion

In patients with DN, both SIRT1 and VDR expression levels are reduced and interrelated. Low VDR expression levels could negatively affect SIRT1 transcription, thus influencing all the most pathogenetic pathways of DN regulated by this protein.
A review of olivine as a tool for understanding kimberlite petrogenesis and diamond potential
Authors: Howarth Geoffrey H. , Casetta Federico , Abersteiner Adam
Published: February 2025

Olivine, the most abundant mineral in kimberlites, exhibits complex compositional zoning characterised by xenocrystic mantle-derived cores that are surrounded by numerous growth and equilibration zones. This review explores how olivine can be used to understand magma evolution, mantle sampling depths, and assess the diamond potential of kimberlites. Aluminium-in-olivine thermometry of xenocryst cores, calibrated against local geotherms, provides valuable insights into the peridotitic material sampled by kimberlites, including its diamond potential. By analyzing the relative abundance of peridotitic- versus megacrystic-derived olivine core zones in individual kimberlites, the extent of diamond-destructive preconditioning by proto-kimberlite melts within the sub-continental lithospheric mantle (SCLM) can be evaluated. Global compilations of mean core and rim compositions, along with groundmass modal abundances, help to understand the diversification of kimberlite melts through complex interactions with SCLM. Similarly, global data on cratonic olivine lamproites indicate that they evolved from sub-lithospheric melts, diversifying within the SCLM to produce the observed range of cratonic lamproite compositions. Crystal inclusions within olivine allow for the liquid line of descent to be constrained, and chemical gradients at the interface between cores and growth zones in olivine allow the application of chronometry models for estimating the ascent rate of kimberlites from the mantle to the surface. Additionally, primary and secondary melt/fluid inclusions offer snapshots of kimberlite melt compositions, tracing melt evolution across multiple stages. Thus, olivine allows for unprecedented insight into the nature of the SCLM sampled by kimberlite magmas, as well as their formation and evolution from source to surface.
Indigenous migrant labourers and land: towards an exploration of indigenous’ socio-cultural reproduction in the Colombian Altillanura
Authors: Arango Lorenza
Published: February 2025

Production and social reproduction are increasingly characterized by its multisitedeness given the rising number of working people migrating for wage work. The ways in which these spheres interplay, both at migrants’ places of origin and at the destination sites of work, differ greatly across societies. Based on primary research in Puerto Gaitán, Colombia—a small town in a largely rural area serving as an agribusiness and oil exploitation hub—I suggest that the complex expressions of the production-social reproduction nexus are intimately connected with the ‘politics of land’. While the town of Puerto Gaitán, as a place of migration, provides for most everyday ‘material’ elements to sustain life (food, shelter, clothing, care, schools, hospitals), other crucial aspects of social reproduction are still heavily performed at indigenous’ rural collective lands (resguardos). Resguardo lands are a key socio-cultural basis of Indigenous peoples’ reproduction, despite serious limitations partly due to their isolation, to restrictions on the free circulation by large landowners, and to historical underlying drivers founded in dispossession. One important analytical and political implication is that migrant workers’ access to land should respond to a broader conceptualization of social reproduction—i.e., in which non-material aspects are equally considered.
A deadly taste: linking bitter taste receptors and apoptosis
Authors: Miller Zoey A. , Carey Ryan M. , Lee Robert J.
Published: February 2025

Humans can perceive five canonical tastes: salty, sour, umami, sweet, and bitter. These tastes are transmitted through the activation of ion channels and receptors. Bitter taste receptors (Taste Family 2 Receptors; T2Rs) are a sub-family of 25 G-protein coupled receptor (GPCR) isoforms that were first identified in type II taste bud cells. T2Rs are activated by a broad array of bitter agonists, which cause an increase in intracellular calcium (Ca2+) and a decrease in cyclic adenosine 3’,5’-monophosphate (cAMP). Interestingly, T2Rs are expressed beyond the oral cavity, where they play diverse non-taste roles in cell physiology and disease. Here, we summarize the literature that explores the role of T2Rs in apoptosis. Activation of T2Rs with bitter agonists induces apoptosis in several cancers, the airway epithelia, smooth muscle, and more. In many of these tissues, T2R activation causes mitochondrial Ca2+ overload, a main driver of apoptosis. This response may be a result of T2R cellular localization, nuclear Ca2+ mobilization and/or a remnant of the established immunological roles of T2Rs in other cell types. T2R-induced apoptosis could be pharmacologically leveraged to treat diseases of altered cellular proliferation. Future work must explore additional extra-oral T2R-expressing tissues for apoptotic responses, develop methods for in-vivo studies, and discover high affinity bitter agonists for clinical application.