bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Salinity Dynamics in Subsoiled Soils of the Northwest of the Argentine Pampean Plain
Authors: Casas Roberto R. , Baridón Juan E.
Published: June 2021

Aims: The objective of the present work was to evaluate the annual evolution of the electrical conductivity and the reaction of the soil, in a Natraqualf of the northwest of the Argentine Pampean Plain, treated with a subsoiler and sowing of wheatgrass.

Methodology: Four treatments were established in plots of 400 m2: natural pasture; pasture with wheatgrass (Thynopirum ponticum); natural pasture with subsoiling and wheatgrass pasture with subsoiling. Soil samples were extracted at depths of 0-15 cm, 15-30 cm and 30-45 cm, in January, April, July and October. The edaphic parameters analyzed were: pH, electrical conductivity and bulk density. In October, the dry matter production was determined by treatment. The monthly variation of the depth of the groundwater and its chemical characteristics was measured.

Results: The depth of the water table fluctuated between 1.30 m and 0.70 m. The implantation of wheatgrass combined with subsoiling produced a decrease in electrical conductivity from 23.7 dS.m-1 to 3.4 dS.m-1 at 0-15 cm, and from 18.3 dS.m-1 to 7.9 dS.m-1 at 15-30 cm. Soil pH decreased almost one unit in the first 30 cm of depth of the treatments that included wheatgrass. The bulk density was reduced from 1.39 to 1.03 g.cm-3 in the treatment with subsoiling and wheatgrass, and 1.09 g.cm-3 in the wheatgrass treatment without subsoiling. The salt concentration and reaction of the soil at more than 30 cm did not show significant changes in the course of the work.

Conclusion: The implantation of wheatgrass, combined with the use of a “mole plow” subsoiler, in the studied soil, produces a significant decrease in the salt content and soil pH in the first 30 cm of depth. At more than 30 cm the salt concentration and reaction of the soil is determined by the groundwater.
Kinetic and Mechanism of Uncatalytic Oxidation of Dl-Threonine by Cerium (Iv) in Aqueous Acid Medium
Authors: Sahu Gajanand , Ghosh Sanjay
Published: June 2021

Kinetic of uncatalyzed oxidation of DL-Threonine has been studied by Ce (IV) in acidic medium has been investigatigated by spectrophotometer technique.  The rate of reaction determined at three different temperatures ranging from 298 K to 318 K at the interval of 10 K. The reaction has been found to be a first order reaction in presence or in absence of KCl, CTAB, and SDS. The rate constant, decreases with increasing the concentration of [HSO4-] and [H+] ion. The various thermodynamic parameters were calculated at 298 K, 308 K and 318 K. The proposed mechanism and results is discussed.
Principal Component Analysis on Soil Fertility Parameters in Vegetable Growing Locations of Kottayam District of Kerala
Authors: Muhsina A. , Joseph Brigit , Kumar Vijayaraghava
Published: June 2021

Present study utilizes Principal Component Analysis (PCA) of 13 soil testing variables obtained from 28 vegetable growing locations of Kottayam district and there were a total of 718 samples for analysis. Thirteen Principal Components (PCs) were generated and five PCs could explain the major share of variance (80%). Score plot was drawn based on PCA and the results indicated that none of the variables was predominant in Bharananganam, Kadanadu, Kozhuvanal, Kidangoor and Pallikkathode and also these panchayats had positive scores on both F1 and F2 when factor analysis was conducted. Boron (B), Copper (Cu) and Zinc (Zn) were predominant in Akalakkunnam, Kadalpalamattom, Meeaachil, Melukavu, Poonjar and Ramapuram panchayats. Elikulam, Erumeli, Karoor, Mundakkayam, Mutholi, Poonjar south, Thalapalm and Vakathanom were those panchayats where the contribution of Magnesium (Mg), Potassium (K) and pH was more. All other elements viz, Oxidisable Organic Carbon (OC), Sulphur (S), Phosphorus (P), Calcium (Ca), Manganese (Mn) and Iron (Fe) had significant importance in Ayarkkunnam, Aymanam, Chempu, Kaduthuruthy, Kurichi, Manjoor, Maravanthuruth, Puthuppally and Thalayazham panchayats.
Molecular Comparison of Screening Technique for Hepatitis B Virus Infection among Blood Donors in Ibadan, South West, Nigeria
Authors: Anthony Buhari Olusegun , Adesola Azeez Ikimot , Lawrence Owolabi Shola , Ayodeji Boyejo , Oluwatosin Issah Aishat , Funke Ikeola Misturah
Published: June 2021

Hepatitis B infection has been a great threat to transfusion medicine and public medicine, especially Nigeria where approximately 18 million Nigerians are chronic carriers. The blood donors in Ibadan are routinely screened with rapid technique or enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for the detection of Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg), there is paucity of information on the use of Nested Polymerase Chain Reaction (Nested PCR) for the detection of Hepatitis B virus deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) for the screening of blood donors. This study was aimed at carrying out molecular comparison of the screening techniques for the detection of HBV infection among blood donors in Ibadan, South West, Nigeria.

Blood samples were collected from 150 potential blood donors at the blood bank, University College Hospital, Ibadan. Rapid immune-chromatographic technique and nested PCR using primer SF, 979 and MF specific for DNA polymerase genome was used to screen the serum of the blood donors. Processing and analysis of data were performed using IBM statistical package for social sciences (IBM SPSS version 21.0 computer software). Descriptive statistics were presented using chart and tables while statistical significance was taken as P<0.05

The Rapid Screening test showed that 16 (10.7%) of the blood donors were positive while 134 (89.3%) were negative. The molecular detection of the Hepatitis B virus-DNA using nested PCR showed that 7 (4.7%) of the blood donors were positive while 143 (95.3%) were negative. It was also observed that 5 (71.4%) out of the 16 donors (10.7%) captured by the rapid screening were also detected by the Nested PCR, while the remaining 2 (28.6%) detected by the PCR were negative with the Rapid Screening test. The age range of 30 to 39 years and 40 to 49 years had the higher rate of infection 42.9% respectively. Result of the effects of different risk factors generated with the aid of questionnaire reflected that multiple sex partner have the highest prevalence of 16.7% compared to other risk factors

In conclusion, the detection of HBV-DNA using nested PCR among blood donors that was positive in Ibadan South West, Nigeria has public health implication for prevention of Hepatitis B virus and this confirms the practice of improper screening of blood before transfusion. Nested PCR techniques helps in early detection of hepatitis B virus DNA among blood donors, due to its high specificity and sensitivity than Rapid technique hence it serves as a confirmatory technique.
Of the league said to have been formed between the Emperor Charlemagne and the King of Scotland
Authors: Foulis of Colinton John
Published: June 2021

Five or six years ago (anno 1773) two short treatises were published, one denying, and the other affirming, that the King of Scotland had entered into alliance with the Emperor Charlemagne. I will not here enter into the arguments alleged on either side, but only lay before the Society an observation I made on reading the history of those times, and which seems to have escaped the observation of all who have written on that subject.
Plan for a Royal Forest of Oak in the Highlands of Scotland
Authors: Williams John
Published: June 2021

In this age of Industry, when improvements are making rapid progress in all other corners of Great Britain, the Highlands of Scotland are much neglected. The Highlands may be made the capital FOREST of Great Britain; the grand magazine of the nation for ship-building timber; and it is capable of being made a very large one, and, in time, the best and most convenient in all Europe.
Five Engineering Advancements That May Help Solve the Growing Threat of Antimicrobial Resistance
Authors: Schweitzer Kate
Published: February 2025

This Medical News article is an interview with Anita Shukla, PhD, the Elaine I. Savage Professor of Engineering at Brown University, about the urgent need for engineering-directed research to curb antimicrobial resistance.
Red and brown macroalgae in temperate stream food webs: Are we missing an important trophic link?
Authors: Escura Marine , Koussoroplis Apostolos‐Manuel , Desvilettes Christian
Published: February 2025

In temperate low‐order streams and rivers, the macroinvertebrate community has a key role in the flow of matter and energy. Despite its relative scarcity, in‐stream primary producers have a high functional importance for the macroinvertebrates as the main source of Long‐Chained PolyUnsaturated Fatty Acids (LC‐PUFAs), essential biochemical compounds for macroinvertebrates fitness. Among these primary producers, the trophic role of microalgae in periphytic biofilms has been largely studied over the last decades, while macroalgae (Rhodophyta, Ochrophyta) have been neglected or even ignored. We call for future studies quantifying macroalgal species and production in streams, their biochemical composition, as well as their nutritional value for stream invertebrates to assess their potential trophic role in stream food webs. Our literature review indicates that macroalgae can be seasonally and locally abundant in freshwater streams and that they are frequently found in the guts of numerous macroinvertebrate taxa. From a biochemical perspective, the macroalgal species studied are rich in LC‐PUFAs, particularly in Arachidonic Acid (ARA), an omega‐6 fatty acid, contrasting with periphytic biofilms, which are rich in the omega‐3 series, especially Eicosapentaenoic Acid (EPA). Consuming Rhodophyta and Ochrophyta macroalgae as a complementary resource could enable stream invertebrates to optimize their dietary EPA : ARA ratio.
Comprehensive First‐Principles Investigation of β‐Ca5Si2N6: Structural, Mechanical, Electronic, Optical, and Catalytic Insights
Authors: Mosbah Ammar , Bouriachi Sarra , Haddadi Khelifa , Messalti Abdelghafour Said , Hamici Melia , Bouhemadou Abdelmadjid
Published: February 2025

Herein, the findings of a thorough theoretical investigation of the structural, mechanical, electronic, optical, and catalytic properties of β‐Ca5Si2N6 are presented using the pseudopotential plane‐wave method based on density functional theory. This nitridosilicate compound has a mechanically stable monoclinic lattice. Along the principal axes, it has high directional compressive and tensile strength. The isotropic compressive strength is moderate, and the shear deformation resistance is low. It also has a moderate Vickers hardness, a low minimum thermal conductivity, and a high Debye temperature. It has been found that β‐Ca5Si2N6 is a semiconductor with a wide direct energy bandgap of 3.752 eV and a mix of covalent and ionic bonds. It can strongly absorb UV light (up to 2.7 × 105 cm−1), reflect light less than 35%, lose very little energy (<4%), has a maximum refractive index of 2.9, and exhibits a peak photoconductivity of 5.602 fs−1. These properties make it a suitable choice for optical coatings and photonic devices. With band‐edge potentials of −1.498 and 2.253 eV, the material also has good catalytic activity, which means it works well for photocatalytic water splitting and organic pollutant decomposition. β‐Ca5Si2N6 shows significant potential for advanced applications in optoelectronics, catalysis, and other high‐tech fields.
Lettre International contra Sinn und Form. Über Geld und Regeln
Authors: Hagenhoff Svenja
Published: February 2025

In demokratisch geprägten Gesellschaften gelten Literatur und Medien als wertvolle Güter der Öffentlichkeit, denen positive Auswirkungen für souveränes Handeln aufgeklärter Bürgerinnen und Bürger zugeschrieben werden. Aus diesem Grund können staatliche, demokratisch kontrollierte Eingriffe in die Ermöglichungsbedingungen und die Funktionsweise des Systems der öffentlichen literarischen Kommunikation legitimiert sein. Die Buchpreisbindung (z. B. BRD, Österreich) oder der reduzierte Mehrwertsteuersatz für Schriftmedien (z. B. BRD, Österreich, Schweiz) sind Beispiele für stützende Eingriffe in das ansonsten freie Marktgeschehen. Als besonders schwerwiegender und auch hürdenreicher Eingriff in Medienmärkte gilt in Deutschland die direkte Subvention, also das Bereitstellen von Steuergeldern, was z. B. in der Filmförderung auf Basis eines eigenen Gesetzes praktiziert wird. Diese Studie untersucht am Beispiel des Falls der Zeitschriften Lettre International und Sinn und Form die finanziellen Ermöglichungs- und Gelingensbedingungen der literarischen Kommunikation im periodischen Medium der Literatur- und Kulturzeitschrift. Ausgangspunkt der Analyse ist ein Konflikt um die Legitimität oder Nicht-Legitimität von Corona-Hilfen. Darauf aufbauend stellt sich die grundsätzliche Frage danach, wie mediale Artefakte der literarischen Kommunikation finanziert werden und mit welcher Begründung Steuergelder zum Einsatz kommen oder nicht. Die Fallstudie zeigt, wie finanzielle Regulierungen darauf wirken, ob spezifische Formen literarischer Öffentlichkeit überhaupt hergestellt werden können. Dabei wird deutlich, dass eine differenzierte wissenschaftliche sowie auch gesellschaftliche Diskussion um die (bundesrepublikanische) Praxis der finanziellen Förderung bisher kaum stattgefunden haben.
Öffentlichkeiten im Wandel. Normative Überlegungen und die Kontroverse um Maxim Billers Roman Esra
Authors: Schicha Christian
Published: February 2025

Der Beitrag widmet sich Wandlungsprozessen der Strukturen der Öffentlichkeit. Zunächst werden grundlegende normative Ansprüche an Medienöffentlichkeiten skizziert, die über unterschiedliche Kanäle hergestellt werden. Auf der Basis der Kommunikationsfreiheiten haben Medien die Aufgabe, transparent und informativ zu agieren sowie ihrer Kontroll- und Kritikfunktion nachzukommen. Im Gegensatz zu den klassischen Massenmedien verfügen digitale Kanäle über die Möglichkeit, Austauschprozesse zwischen den Anbieter*innen und Nutzer*innen zu generieren. In diesem Zusammenhang wird auf kommunikative Aushandlungsprozesse mit Bezug auf die Konzeption von Jürgen Habermas zum neuen Strukturwandel der Öffentlichkeit verwiesen. Weiterhin wird das Verhältnis zwischen Literatur und Öffentlichkeit erörtert. Exemplarisch erfolgt eine Auseinandersetzung um den Roman Esra von Maxim Biller, der im Spannungsfeld zwischen dem Persönlichkeitsschutz, dem Recht auf freie Meinungsäußerung und der Kunstfreiheit angesiedelt ist.
The anti-de Sitter supergeometry revisited
Authors: Koning Nowar E. , Kuzenko Sergei M. , Raptakis Emmanouil S. N.
Published: February 2025

Abstract

In a supergravity framework, the

$$ \mathcal{N} $$

N

-extended anti-de Sitter (AdS) superspace in four spacetime dimensions,

$$ {\textrm{AdS}}^{4\left|4\mathcal{N}\right.} $$

AdS

4

4
N

, is a maximally symmetric background that is described by a curved superspace geometry with structure group SL(2, ℂ) ×

$$ \textrm{U}\left(\mathcal{N}\right) $$

U

N

. On the other hand, within the group-theoretic setting,

$$ {\textrm{AdS}}^{4\left|4\mathcal{N}\right.} $$

AdS

4

4
N

is realised as the coset superspace

$$ \textrm{O}\textrm{Sp}\left(\left.\mathcal{N}\right|4;\mathbb{R}\right)/\left[\textrm{SL}\left(2,\mathbb{C}\right)\times \textrm{O}\left(\mathcal{N}\right)\right] $$

OSp

N

4

ℝ

/

SL

2
ℂ

×
O

N

, with its structure group being SL(2, ℂ) ×

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

O

N

. Here we explain how the two frameworks are related. We give two explicit realisations of

$$ {\textrm{AdS}}^{4\left|4\mathcal{N}\right.} $$

AdS

4

4
N

as a conformally flat superspace, thus extending the

$$ \mathcal{N} $$

N

= 1 and

$$ \mathcal{N} $$

N

= 2 results available in the literature. As applications, we describe: (i) a two-parameter deformation of the

$$ {\textrm{AdS}}^{4\left|4\mathcal{N}\right.} $$

AdS

4

4
N

interval and the corresponding superparticle model; (ii) some implications of conformal flatness for superconformal higher-spin multiplets and an effective action generating the

$$ \mathcal{N} $$

N

= 2 super-Weyl anomaly; and (iii) κ-symmetry of the massless AdS superparticle.
Dynamical edge modes in p-form gauge theories
Authors: Ball Adam , Law Y. T. Albert
Published: February 2025

Abstract

We extend our recently identified dynamical edge mode boundary condition to p-form gauge theories, revealing their edge modes as Goldstone bosons arising from gauge transformations with support on the boundary. The symplectic conjugates of these edge modes correspond to the electric-field-like components normal to the boundary. We demonstrate that both the symplectic form and the Hamiltonian naturally decompose into bulk and edge parts. When the boundary is a stretched horizon, we show that the thermal edge partition function reduces to that of a codimension-two ghost (p – 1)-form residing on the bifurcation surface. These findings provide a dynamical framework that elucidates observations made by several authors. Additionally, we generalize Donnelly and Wall’s non-dynamical approach to obtain edge partition functions for both massive and massless p-forms. In the context of a de Sitter static patch, these results are consistent with the edge partition functions found by several authors in arbitrary dimensions.
Significantly increased bone volume in a critical-sized defect model in the rat animal model by transplantation of a stand-alone vascularized periosteal flap
Authors: Wichlas Florian , Wenzel Maximilian , Hofmann Valeska , Trieb Klemens , Deluca Amelie , Tempfer Herbert , Wagner Andrea , Traweger Andreas , Senck Sascha , Deininger Christian
Published: February 2025

Purpose

The repair of bony non-unions remains challenging and often requires graft material due to limited availability of autologous bone. The aim of this study was to investigate the potency of a stand-alone pedicled periosteal flap (PF) versus a ligated periosteal flap (PFx), an empty defect and a crossover group in terms of newly formed bone in a 5 mm critical-sized defect in the rat femur diaphysis.

Methods

The following 4 treatment groups were formed out of a total of 36 male Sprague Dawley rats: Pedicled periosteal flap, ligated periosteal flap, crossover (each n = 10) and empty defect group (n = 6). A prospective randomized plate osteosynthesis was performed. The periosteal flap was dissected along with the supplying vessel from the medial femoral condyle with the aid of magnifying glasses and fixed to the plate and to the defect with a suture. Regular radiographic and µ-CT examinations were performed to determine bone volume inside the defect, as well as descriptive histological examinations.

Results

Newly formed bone tissue was measured by Bone Volume / Tissue Volume. The significant highest ratio to the control group was detected in the PF group after 10 weeks (18.77%) compared to the crossover- (11.28%; p = 0.0436), the PFx- (10.98%; p = 0.0411), and the control group (10.47%; p = 0.0293). No relevant differences were found in the descriptive histological examination.

Conclusion

According to the observed results, bony healing of non-union defects can be supported with a pedicled periosteal flap. The superiority of the pedicled compared to the ligated periosteal flap suggests that the improved blood flow within the defect area is an essential component of the healing phase itself.
Hemp flour in breadmaking: circularity and opportunities for bread quality and stability during storage
Authors: Del Vecchio Lorenzo , Chiodetti Miriam , Cirlini Martina , Ricci Sebastiano , Di Fazio Andrea , Caligiani Augusta , Carini Eleonora
Published: February 2025

Industrial hemp is cultivated in all continents, and represents a multipurpose, sustainable and low environmental impact crop. The hemp seed is of particular interest for food application due to its nutritional profile. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of hemp flour (10%, 15% or 25%) on wheat-bread physico-chemical properties (specific volume, texture, color, crumb grain, water status, retrograded amylopectin) of the composite breads during 7 days of storage. The physico-chemical properties of both fresh and stored composite bread were affected by the addition of hemp flour in the formulation, with respect to the standard bread, in a not linearly manner based on the hemp flour content. 10% and 15% hemp flour composite breads resulted with higher specific volume and lower hardness and characterized by a slower increase of hardness during storage, if compared with standard bread. Overall, the hemp flour inclusion level was found pivotal in modulating the quality of composite bread during storage, suggesting that the 15% inclusion level can be a satisfactory compromise among those studied for the reached bread technological quality.
Metagenomic Analysis of Surface Waters and Wastewater in the Colombian Andean Highlands: Implications for Health and Disease
Authors: Urrea Vanessa , Páez-Triana Luisa , Velásquez-Ortiz Natalia , Camargo Milena , Patiño Luz H. , Vega Laura , Ballesteros Nathalia , Hidalgo-Troya Arsenio , Galeano Luis-Alejandro , Ramírez Juan David , Muñoz Marina
Published: February 2025

Urban water bodies serve as critical reservoirs of microbial diversity, with major implications for public health and environmental quality. This study aimed to characterize the microbial diversity of surface waters and wastewater from the Pasto River in the Colombian Andean Highlands, offering insights that may support water quality monitoring efforts. Sampling was conducted at three river sites and one wastewater location. Standard physicochemical and microbiological analyses were performed, including real-time PCR to detect protozoan pathogens Giardia spp. and Cryptosporidium spp. Metagenomic sequencing provided an in-depth taxonomic and functional profile of microbial communities through two complementary approaches: (i) read-based analysis to identify abundant families and species, both pathogenic and beneficial, and (ii) detection of health-related molecular markers, including antimicrobial resistance markers and virulence factors. Physicochemical analyses showed distinct profiles between wastewater and surface water, with wastewater exhibiting elevated levels of suspended solids (113.6 mg/L), biochemical oxygen demand (BOD, 311.2 mg/L), and chemical oxygen demand (COD, 426.7 mg/L). Real-time PCR detected Giardia spp. DNA in 75% (76/102) of the samples and Cryptosporidium spp. DNA in 94% (96/102) of samples. The metagenomic read-based profiling identified Aeromonas media as a prevalent pathogen and Polaromonas naphthalenivorans as a potential biodegradative agent. The metagenomic assembly produced 270 high-quality genomes, revealing 16 bacterial species (e. g., Acinetobacter johnsonii and Megamonas funiformis) that provided insights into fecal contaminants and native aquatic microbes. Functional profiling further revealed a high prevalence of antimicrobial resistance markers, particularly for tetracyclines, aminoglycosides, and macrolides, with the highest abundance found in wastewater samples. Additionally, virulence factors were notably present in Zoogloea ramigera. The findings underscore the value of metagenomic profiling as a comprehensive tool for water quality monitoring, facilitating the detection of pathogens, beneficial species, and molecular markers indicative of potential health risks. This approach supports continuous monitoring efforts, offering actionable data for water management strategies to safeguard public health and maintain ecological integrity.
Screening and diagnosis of sarcopenia in rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases: findings from a cross-sectional study
Authors: Pardali Eleni C. , Kontouli Katerina-Maria , Gkouvi Arriana , Tsakmaki Irene A. , Patrikiou Eleni , Karapli Maria , Liaskos Christos , Liapis Nektarios Marios , Syrmou Vasiliki , Alexiou Ioannis , Simopoulou Theodora , Papadopoulou Sousana K. , Katsiari Christina G. , Zafiriou Efterpi , Goulis Dimitrios G. , Bogdanos Dimitrios P. , Grammatikopoulou Maria G.
Published: February 2025

Sarcopenia is characterized by loss of muscle mass and reduced muscle function, presenting various adverse events, especially when inflammation is present. The present study aimed to determine the prevalence of sarcopenia and sarcopenic obesity among patients with rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases (RMDs) and identify the risk for sarcopenia using two screening tools the Strength, assistance with walking, rising from a chair, climbing stairs, and falls (SARC-F) and the Mini Sarcopenia Risk Assessment (MSRA). In this single-center cross-sectional study, 220 consecutive patients visiting the Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology at the University General Hospital of Larissa were interviewed. The EWGSOP criteria were used for the diagnosis of sarcopenia, while sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive values, number needed to screen, and positive and negative likelihood ratios were used to validate the diagnostic validity of the SARC-F and the MSRA. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were also applied to model the relationship between sarcopenia and other variables. In the total sample, 15.9% of patients were diagnosed with sarcopenia and one patient with sarcopenic obesity. The SARC-F (sensitivity 22.2%, specificity 75.6%), the 5-item (sensitivity 88.9%, specificity 18.9%), and the 7-item MSRA (sensitivity 91.7%, specificity 9.2%) presented poor clinical performance when used for screening alone. Univariate logistic regression analyses showed that underweight status, systemic sclerosis and appetite loss are strong contributors to sarcopenia diagnosis. Sarcopenia is prevalent among RMDs, and screening is essential within RMD clinics. None of the screening tools (SARC-F and MSRA) can stand alone in assessing sarcopenia in patients with RMDs. More research is required to understand sarcopenia in RMDs and validate the wide-using screening tools.
Resonantly diode-pumped Tm:YAG laser for efficient 2036 nm generation
Authors: Kratochvíl Jan , Veselský Karel , Popelová Dominika , Šulc Jan , Jelínková Helena , Nejezchleb Karel , Uxa Štěpán
Published: February 2025

We present a resonantly diode pumped Tm:YAG laser, operating at 2036 nm, wavelength-stabilized using a volume Bragg grating. This laser takes advantage of resonant diode pumping at 1.69 

$${\upmu }$$

μ

m to achieve efficient emission in the high atmospheric transmission spectral region near 2 

$${\upmu }$$

μ

m. Despite operation on the wing of the emission spectrum, an output power of up to 4.6 W was obtained with a slope efficiency of 49%. In a Q-switched regime, output pulses with an energy of 0.8 mJ and a duration of 360 ns were achieved with performance constrained by the chosen components. The results highlight the potential of compact resonantly diode-pumped 2 

$${\upmu }$$

μ

m Tm

$$^{3+}$$

3
+

laser systems for applications requiring efficient wavelength-specific sources, such as LIDAR and atmospheric sensing.
Optimization of a model for denitrification with batch and porous media experiments
Authors: Zawallich Jan , Ippisch Olaf
Published: February 2025

Denitrification, the microbial process (and its subprocesses) of reducing nitrogenous oxides to gaseous nitrogen, is usually modelled using the relevant scale, i.e. microscopic, laboratory, field, or landscape scale. It is shown that a newly developed model can simulate several experiments with a denitrifying strain of bacteria at the microscopic scale with different initial oxygen and nitrate concentrations all at once. It is shown that for this, a new approach for the onset of denitrification is needed. It will then be investigated whether the model can be transferred from the microscopic scale to the laboratory scale to simulate an experimental setup with sintered glass beads that mimic hot spots in the soil. For this, the reaction from the batch experiment model is not changed, but diffusion of the components is added. While the spatially resolved model seems to incorporate the spatial structure correctly, shown by the good agreement between simulation and experiment under purely oxic conditions, there is a structural mismatch between the simulation and the experiments with denitrification.
Utility of contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging for planning of surgical procedure in Paget’s disease of the breast
Authors: Oba Takaaki , Maeno Kazuma , Iji Ryoko , Kiyosawa Nami , Park Yonghan , Morikawa Hiroki , Amitani Masatsugu , Shimizu Tadafumi , Ono Mayu , Ito Tokiko , Kanai Toshiharu , Matoba Hisanori , Takayama Fumiyoshi , Ito Ken-ichi
Published: February 2025

Purpose

Contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (CE-MRI) is an essential imaging modality for planning breast cancer surgical procedures. However, CE-MRI findings in Paget’s disease of the breast (PD) have not been studied extensively. This study aimed to elucidate the CE-MRI findings of PD and assess their role in surgical treatment planning.

Methods

Twelve patients with PD who underwent surgery between 2011 and 2023 were retrospectively analyzed.

Results

The average patient age was 73.8 ± 14.3 years. CE-MRI detected enhanced areas in the nipple-areola complex (NAC) and/or surrounding skin in all patients. Additionally, 6 patients showed enhanced areas within the breast, suggesting ductal spread into the breast. Of these, 1 patient underwent breast-conserving surgery (BCS), and 5 opted for mastectomy. Pathology confirmed the extent of ductal spread of PD, as indicated by CE-MRI. Among the 6 patients who did not have an enhanced area in the breast, 3 underwent BCS or central lumpectomy including NAC, and 3 chose mastectomy based on the patient's preference, and no malignant foci were observed in the breast.

Conclusion

CE-MRI effectively evaluated the ductal spread of PD in the breast, demonstrating its utility in guiding the selection of surgical procedures.
Deconstructing avian flight: forelimb length correlates with coracoid dimensions in birds
Authors: Deeming D. Charles , Da Silva Robin Ferrari
Published: February 2025

Avian flight is possible because of functional adaptations of the skeleton, musculature, and the integument in the form of feathers. Bird species with short wings have a greater stroke amplitude angle than bigger birds with longer wings. The m. pectoralis generates the downstroke and the m. supracoracoideus facilitates the upstroke. Striated muscle has a limited capacity for contraction so greater stroke amplitude angles could reflect a longer muscle. The length of both flight muscles must reflect the size of the underlying skeleton, i.e. the sternum and coracoid. It was hypothesised that, to increase the distance between the sternum and the shoulder, short wings would be associated with longer coracoids, and vice versa. It was predicted that, in an inter-species comparison, coracoid dimensions would exhibit negative allometry with total forelimb skeletal length but isometry with body mass. Values for coracoid length and width, total forelimb length, and body mass were collated from the literature and measured from photographs for 146 species of bird. Phylogenetically controlled analysis showed that coracoid length scaled isometrically with body mass, but coracoid width showed positive allometry. As predicted, both coracoid length and width exhibited negative allometry with total forelimb length. Order of bird was important in determining variation in coracoid dimensions. Although coracoid length will determine muscle length, variation in sternum dimensions will also affect length of breast muscles. Further studies aiming to improve our understanding of the mechanics of flight in birds need to consider the pectoral-sternum anatomy in conjunction with the associated musculature.
Soil carbon responses to prescribed burning, nitrogen addition, and their interactions in a Mediterranean shrubland
Authors: Inclán R. , Pérez-Pastor R. , Clavero M. A. , Cicuéndez V. , Cobos J. , Remedios E. , Sánchez-Ledesma D. M.
Published: February 2025

Understanding the effects of prescribed burning management practices in combination with anthropogenic nitrogen (N) deposition on soil carbon (C) storage capacity is of crucial importance in Mediterranean mountain shrublands. To address this issue, an experiment was conducted to assess the effects of prescribed burning (Burn, B / No Burn, NB), N additions (0, 15, and 50 kg N·ha−1·year−1, N0, N15, N50) and their interactive effects on various soil parameters in a shrubland located in the mountain range of Madrid over 2-year period. The results of the study confirmed that both low-intensity prescribed burning and short-term N additions did not alter the C stocks in the soil and floor shrubs. Furthermore, the combination of these two factors did not lead to an increase in soil C accumulation. However, the prescribed fire treatment caused divergent responses in soil parameters and fluxes. Specifically, it caused transient changes including decreased soil respiration (Rs), alterations in the soil microbial community, increased soil water content, temperature, and soil pH, and changes in NH4, NH3, and available P. Moreover, the cumulative amount of N added gradually depressed Rs, and microbial biomass. Additionally, the interaction between prescribed burning and N fertilisation did not modify the effects associated with fire. The findings indicate that prescribed burning, as implemented in the experiment, can be effectively employed in Mediterranean shrublands, as it did not significantly affect soil C storage under both current and future N deposition scenarios.
Is Work Still a Right if it has Become a Norm? Disability Inclusion in Labor Market Policy Discourse
Authors: Baeken Andries , Forrier Anneleen , De Cuyper Nele
Published: February 2025

Policy motives for work for people with a disability (PWD) are divergent along two discourses: work as a right vs norm. Work as a right, based on the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD), portrays work as a potential gateway for inclusion. Work as a norm fits a neoliberal agenda. It considers labor market participation of all, including PWD, as a civil responsibility crucial for economic welfare. Critics argue that the work as a norm discourse presents a risk for inclusion of PWD. Work is seen as a necessary condition for and not one of many ways to inclusion in society. To make the right to work for PWD work, critical scholars call to unravel whether and how the discourses of work as a right and norm for PWD become intertwined in policy. In response and through the lens of recontextualization, we study how discourses of work as a right and norm for PWD are received, reproduced and reworked in political debate in Flanders (Belgium) over time. We examine policy texts and parliamentary questions of four government terms (2004–2024). The findings illustrate how the work as a right discourse is gradually recontextualized into the work as a norm discourse to legitimize neoliberal policies of strict activation. In accordance, we see a gradual move towards neoliberal-ableism. Although the UNCRPD aims to eradicate ableism, its recontextualization and appropriation reinforces neoliberal-ableism.
Single-Cell Analysis of Sex and Gender Differences in the Human Brain During Development and Disease
Authors: Zelco Aura , Joshi Anagha
Published: February 2025

Sex and gender (SG) differences in the human brain are of interest to society and science as numerous processes are impacted by them, including brain development, behavior, and diseases. By collecting publicly available single-cell data from the in-utero to elderly age in healthy, Alzheimer’s disease and multiple sclerosis samples, we identified and characterized SG-biased genes in ten brain cell types across 9 age and disease groups. Sex and gender differences in the transcriptome were present throughout the lifespan and across all cell types. Although there was limited overlap among SG-biased genes across different age and disease groups, we observed significant functional overlap. Female-biased genes are consistently enriched for brain-related processes, while male-biased genes are enriched for metabolic pathways. Additionally, mitochondrial genes showed a consistent female bias across cell types. We also found that androgen response elements (not estrogen) were significantly enriched in both male- and female-biased genes, and thymosin hormone targets being consistently enriched only in male-biased genes. We systematically characterised SG differences in brain development and brain-related disorders at a single-cell level, by analysing a total of publicly available 419,885 single nuclei from 161 human brain samples (72 females, 89 males). The significant enrichment of androgen (not estrogen) response elements in both male- and female-biased genes suggests that androgens are important regulators likely establishing these SG differences. Finally, we provide full characterization of SG-biased genes at different thresholds for the scientific community as a web resource.

Graphical Abstract

Summary of the sex and gender differences found in the human cortex transcriptome. After stratification by cell type and developmental stage, we identified SG-biased genes in human cortex transcriptome. Comprehensive analysis of SG-biased genes resulted in main findings; the female-biased mitochondrial gene up-regulation, the presence of ARE binding sites at the SG-biased DEGs for both sexes, and the enrichment of hormone targets other than sex hormones, such as thymosin. Our findings (highlighted in orange) further extend the traditional model of sex and gender differences in the human brain (highlighted in green). The ARE motif (split in two lines) was obtained via the HOmo sapiens COmprehensive MOdel COllection (version 12). ARE androgen response elements.
Emergent Literacy Instruction for Autistic Children: A Preliminary Study of Teacher Knowledge
Authors: Wang Xiaoning
Published: February 2025

Emergent literacy skills are essential for reading development, yet autistic students face a greater risk of reading difficulties. This qualitative-driven, mixed-methods study explored public preschool teachers’ pedagogical content knowledge in teaching emergent literacy to autistic children. Findings from questionnaires and interviews with ten purposively selected, licensed public-school teachers revealed general knowledge of emergent literacy and autism but highlighted gaps in areas like phonemic awareness. Teachers acknowledged challenges in effectively teaching emergent literacy to autistic students and expressed a need for additional training. Notably, they lacked familiarity with research-supported instructional strategies for autistic learners and often prioritized social and behavioral skills over emergent literacy instruction. These findings emphasize the need for targeted professional development and further research to enhance emergent literacy instruction in preschool settings.
Environmental Risk Assessment of Trace Metal Pollution: A Statistical Perspective
Authors: Ogwu Matthew Chidozie , Izah Sylvester Chibueze , Sawyer Wisdom Ebiye , Amabie Timinipre
Published: February 2025

Trace metal pollution is primarily driven by industrial, agricultural, and mining activities and presents complex environmental challenges with significant implications for ecological and human health. Traditional methods of environmental risk assessment (ERA) often fall short in addressing the intricate dynamics of trace metals, necessitating the adoption of advanced statistical techniques. This review focuses on integrating contemporary statistical methods, such as Bayesian modeling, machine learning, and geostatistics, into ERA frameworks to improve risk assessment precision, reliability, and interpretability. Using these innovative approaches, either alone or preferably in combination, provides a better understanding of the mechanisms of trace metal transport, bioavailability, and their ecological impacts can be achieved while also predicting future contamination patterns. The use of spatial and temporal analysis, coupled with uncertainty quantification, enhances the assessment of contamination hotspots and their associated risks. Integrating statistical models with ecotoxicology further strengthens the ability to evaluate ecological and human health risks, providing a broad framework for managing trace metal pollution. As new contaminants emerge and existing pollutants evolve in their behavior, the need for adaptable, data-driven ERA methodologies becomes ever more pressing. The advancement of statistical tools and interdisciplinary collaboration will be essential for developing more effective environmental management strategies and informing policy decisions. Ultimately, the future of ERA lies in integrating diverse data sources, advanced analytical techniques, and stakeholder engagement, ensuring a more resilient approach to mitigating trace metal pollution and protecting environmental and public health.
Clonorchis sinensis Infection prevents DSS-induced Colitis Via Lithocholic Acid in a Gut Microbiota-Dependent Manner
Authors: Zhang Beibei , Xu Na , Bian Zheng-Rui , Zhang Chen , Li Xing , Ren Xin-Xin , Jiang Zhihua , Wu Zhongdao , Yu Qian , Zheng Kui-Yang , Chen Mu-Xin , Yan Chao
Published: February 2025

Increasing evidence demonstrates that helminth and its components can ameliorate ulcerative colitis. Clonorchis sinensis (C. sinensis) is a kind of helminth that dwells in the bile ducts for many years, but the roles and underlying mechanisms of C. sinensis-induced protection from colitis are not elucidated. In the present study, the mice were infected with 50 C. sinensis metacercariae and further administrated with 4% Dextran Sodium Sulfate (DSS) in drinking water for 7 days on days 49 post-infection. The disease severity and the integrity of gut barriers were evaluated. Gut microbiota was measured using 16sRNA sequencing, and bile acids in the colon were detected by Liquid Chromatography Mass Spectrometry (LC/MS). The Co-housing approach or microbiota deletion with additional supplies of secondary bile acids (SBAs) was employed to investigate the roles of gut microbiota in the protection from colitis. C. sinensis infection moderated the dysbiosis of the intestinal microbiota and increased the levels of SBAs and bile acid receptor Takeda G protein-coupled receptor 5 (TGR5), which finally benefited anti-inflammation and ameliorated the severity of DSS-induced colitis. Co-housing with C. sinensis-infected mice, and non-infected mice with colitis also showed an increase of TGR5, decreased pro-inflammatory cytokines, and a reduction in the severity of colitis, compared to those mice suffering from colitis without co-housing. Furthermore, C. sinensis-induced protective effects on colitis were attenuated by microbiota deletion, while SBAs (lithocholic acid, LCA) supplementation reversed the colitis. The present study demonstrates that C. sinensis infection ameliorates DSS-induced ulcerative colitis in mice, which is dependent on gut microbiota-associated SBAs.
Exploring the Academic Research Career: A Bibliometric and Content Analysis of the Academic Life Cycle
Authors: De Frutos Belizon Jesus , Alba Felix Guerrero , Gardey Gonzalo Sanchez
Published: February 2025

This article presents a literature review of academic research careers in universities. An exhaustive bibliometric analysis of academic research careers was conducted to reveal the major trends and themes regarding the topic. The authors engaged with 191 published documents generated via Web of Science. Bibliometric indicators, such as authors, journals, years, and countries, were used in the analysis. Science mapping analyses, such as keyword co-occurrence and bibliographic coupling, were also performed using the VOSviewer. This article contributes to the literature by categorizing and systematizing the existing literature on academic research careers and proposing areas for further research. These findings could benefit researchers, as well as practitioners in academia, by revealing the most relevant and critical areas of study regarding the topic of academic research careers.
Processes of recontextualizing a curriculum reform into mathematics teacher education
Authors: Piedra Moreno Diana Paola , Meaney Tamsin , Herheim Rune
Published: February 2025

Even though teacher educators are often recognized as key actors in implementing curriculum reforms, little is known about their joint meaning-making about these reforms. In this article, Bernstein’s description of the general recontextualizing processes is used to identify the local processes which contributed to teacher educators’ meaning-making, when a new school curriculum reform was introduced in Norway. The reform was about integrating computational thinking, including programming, into mathematics teaching. Audio recordings and documentation from groups of teacher educators’ first discussions about the reform in a professional seminar were analyzed, using Fairclough’s Critical Discourse Analysis. In developing their meaning-making, the teacher educators adapted their previous knowledge through two local recontextualizing processes, which were labeled simplifying and solidifying. Through joint negotiation, simplifying reduced the complexity of computational thinking, while solidifying simultaneously built up certainty about how to integrate the reform into the teacher educators’ existing practices. The formation and implementation of these local processes were affected by the short time between the introduction of the curriculum and its inclusion into mathematics teacher education courses, as well as the specific contextual features of the seminar.
Heat capacity and absolute standard entropy of Sr(BH4)2
Authors: Burkmann Konrad , Demmer Angus , Habermann Franziska , Hansel Bastian , Störr Bianca , Seidel Jürgen , Gumeniuk Roman , Bertau Martin , Bohmhammel Klaus , Mertens Florian
Published: February 2025

Strontium boranate (Sr(BH4)2) has garnered significant interest within the hydrogen storage community due to its relatively high hydrogen content of approximately 6%. The design of reactive hydride mixtures for reversible hydrogen storage requires the availability of reliable thermodynamic data. This article details the synthesis of Sr(BH4)2 using a wet chemical metathesis reaction. Subsequent to this, the heat capacity of Sr(BH4)2 was determined between 1.8 K and 550 K using two different calorimetric methods. Utilizing these values, the absolute standard entropy at 298.15 K was calculated to be S°(298.15 K) = (147.1 ± 3.7) J mol−1 K−1.
Performance analysis of faber polynomial based local propagators for photonics
Authors: Plotnikov Wladimir , Schulz Dirk
Published: February 2025

The computation of the propagation of an electromagnetic wave in the time domain is examined using local Faber polynomial based time dependent propagators. Conventionally, the whole computational domain is evaluated by one global operator. Contrary, when utilizing a nonuniform discretization in the system local operators can be used individually for each subarea. This allows the complexity to be reduced by decreasing the polynomial order of the evaluation of the Faber algorithm, while at the same time decreasing the overall runtime. Compared to common Local Time Step methods, the time step size of each individual area with this approach is already synchronized with a predefined global time step size. In general, the investigated approach is especially interesting for applications that demand a high spatial resolution, such as in the field of nanophotonics and THz-technology. However, the influence of the necessary process steps on the runtime must be examined in particular when computing with the local operators approach. To this end, the theoretical complexity is derived and compared with practical results to analyze the efficiency.