bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Weathering Process of Parent Material and Accumulation Process of Organic Carbon on the Black Soil Profile: A Case Study from the Keshan Area of the Songnen Plain in Northeast China
Authors: XIA Rui , YUAN Guoli , CUI Minli , HOU Hongxing , YU Guangming , GE Liangsheng , LÜ Kaining , REN Bingzhang 
Published: February 2025

AbstractBlack soil is essential for maintaining regional food security and promoting global agricultural production. Understanding the weathering process of parent material and the accumulation of organic carbon is crucial to comprehending the developmental history and future trends of black soil, especially against the background of large‐scale global cultivation and climate change. Although the importance of black soil formation and evolution cannot be ignored, the relevant research is still very scarce. In this study, a typical eight‐meter‐deep soil core was collected from the Keshan area of the Songnen Plain, Northeast China, where surface black soil developed on paleo‐sediments. Using 14C dating, the formation age of the black soil was determined. Based on the characteristics of the geochemical composition, grain size and the magnetic susceptibility of the sediments, it was demonstrated that the black soil and its parent material originated from reworked loess. Furthermore, the mass transfer coefficient (τ) of some elements was determined, in order to explore the soil weathering process. By calculating the transported amount of alkaline and alkaline‐earth elements, the weathering rate of parent material to black soil was found to be weak, at 0.16 kEq·ha–1·year–1. Combining the results of dating and carbon density in the different layers of black soil, the accumulation rate of organic carbon was determined as follows: rapidly increasing in the initial period of 13.2–2.2 ka, reaching its maximum average value of 34.0 g·cm–2·a–1 at 2.2–0.8 ka, then showing a decreasing trend with an average value of ‐77.5 g·cm–2·a–1. Compared with regional climate change, Keshan black soil has developed under a colder and wetter climate during the Holocene. Predictably, ongoing global warming may lead to the degradation of black soils in the Songnen Plain, as well as in other regions. Our results will enrich geological knowledge of black soil formation and future evolutionary trends.
Macrofaunal Paleocommunities and Microfacies Analysis from the Upper Cretaceous in North Eastern Desert of Egypt
Authors: FAREED Saeed , SALAMA Yasser , MAHMOUD Abdelaziz 
Published: February 2025

AbstractThe Upper Cretaceous successions of Wadi Umm‐Khayshar, southern Galala Plateau, North Eastern Desert, Egypt, are composed of highly diversified faunas and subdivided from base to top into the Galala (Middle–Late Cenomanian), Maghra El Hadida (Latest Cenomanian–Late Turonian), Matulla (Coniacian–Santonian), and Sudr (Campanian–Maastrichtian) formations. Five ammonite biozones are recorded in the studied section: Neolobites vibrayeanus, Vascoceras cauvini (late Cenomanian), Vascoceras proprium, Choffaticeras segne, and Coilopoceras requienianum (Turonian) zones. The paleoenvironments of the Upper Cretaceous succession are interpreted based on detailed study and microfacies analysis that reflect a deposition in a homoclinal ramp platform ranging from intertidal to deep subtidal. The paleoecology of the Cenomanian–Turonian succession in the studied section is explained based on a detailed study of macrofaunal associations and sedimentary facies. Quantitative analysis (Q‐mode cluster analysis, using the Raup–Crick Paired group method) of 1029 macrobenthic specimens, including 45 species of mollusks and echinoids yielded five macrofaunal associations (A–E) that are described and interpreted as remnants of communities. The nektonic elements are represented by 235 cephalopod specimens of 20 species; heatmap cluster analyses show the distribution of these specimens during the Upper Cenomanian–Turonian stages. Environmental parameters (substrate consistency, rate of sedimentation, water energy, surface‐water productivity, and oxygen availability) controlled the distribution of the studied macrofauna. The five associations are divided into two major groups: low‐stress associations (A, B, C, and D), and a high‐stress association (E). The low stress associations are recorded from two different habitats: (1) a high‐energy, firm substrate habitat, dominated by epifaunal bivalves, large epifaunal gastropods and a regular echinoid; (2) a low‐energy, soft substrate habitat dominated by infaunal bivalves and echinoids. The high stress association is dominated by only two species and recorded from a high‐energy shoal environment during a regression phase. A detailed study of macrobenthos and cephalopods provides a good paleoecological understanding of Cenomanian–Turonian succession in the Wadi Umm–Khayshar section.
Immunoglobulin G4‐Related Disease Presenting With Peripheral Neuropathy, Membranous Nephropathy and Interstitial Lung Disease: A Case Report
Authors: Yu Tianhang , Ye Qiao , Luo Fang 
Published: February 2025

ABSTRACTImmunoglobulin G4‐related disease (IgG4‐RD) is a chronic, progressive inflammatory disease with fibrosis that affects multiple organs, while symptomatic peripheral nerve invasion is very rare. Here we present a Chinese male aged 77 years with peripheral neuropathy, membranous nephropathy, and interstitial lung disease diagnosed with IgG4‐RD. The patient exhibited elevated levels of IgG4 and IgG4/IgG ratios in the blood. A chest computed tomography (CT) showed interstitial pneumonia in both lungs and multiple mediastinal lymphadenopathy. Additionally, electromyography shows neurogenic lesions in both lower extremities and axonal lesions involving motor nerves. Biopsies of the kidney showed membranous nephropathy with numerous IgG4‐positive plasma cells. Patients treated with cyclophosphamide and high‐dose methylprednisolone showed improvement in neuropathy, proteinuria, and interpulmonary severity. This case demonstrates the unusual presentation of IgG4‐RD where peripheral neuropathy is the main feature with multisystem involvement but without mass lesions. It underscores the varied clinical manifestations of this disease.
On the Ratchet Effect with Product Market Competition
Authors: Bisceglia Michele , Piccolo Salvatore 
Published: February 2025

ABSTRACTWe study a two‐period industry where firms are run by agents privately informed about their (persistent) costs, and principals can only use spot contracts. We characterize novel semi‐separating equilibria where principals randomize in one or both periods. These equilibria have the following implications for industry dynamics and firms' performance. First, despite some principals learning their agents' type early on, aggregate output need not increase over time: the inefficiencies generated by the adverse selection problem can be persistent over time in competitive environments. Second, a more severe adverse selection problem may result in higher market prices, thereby increasing principals' profits.
Engineering biology and the positive regulatory pathway in Brazil
Authors: Freire Marcelo , Adamala Katarzyna , Nepomuceno Alexandre , Christou Paul , Rech Elibio 
Published: February 2025

AbstractEngineering Biology in Brazil's transition from oil reliance to bioproduction emphasizes the importance of precision biology in enhancing biodiversity through sustainable agricultural practices. Gene editing can improve food and chemical production, nutritional value, and disease resistance in crops, thus reducing the need for chemical pesticides and unsustainable farming practices. We outline the pivotal role of precision biology in Brazil's transition, highlighting the potential of gene editing to enhance agricultural sustainability. This approach aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and benefits from a stable, positive regulatory framework established by the Brazilian Biosafety Committee. Jointly, these advances contribute to global food security while addressing public concerns about safety and ethics.
Large‐Scale Clustered Transcriptional Silencing Associated With Cellular Senescence
Authors: Gurkar Aditi U. , Okawa Satoshi , Guillermier Christelle , Chaddha Kritika , Steinhauser Matthew L. 
Published: February 2025

ABSTRACTSenescence is a cell fate associated with age‐related pathologies; however, senescence markers are not well‐defined. Using single cell multi‐isotope imaging mass spectrometry (MIMS), we identified hypercondensed, transcriptionally silent DNA globules in a senescence model induced by dysfunctional telomeres. This architectural phenomenon was associated with geographically clustered transcriptional repression across somatic chromosomes with over‐representation of cell cycle genes. Senescence‐stimuli was associated with a higher frequency of cells that exhibited geographically concentrated transcriptional repression relative to control cells. This phenomenon was also observed in multiple other senescence models, including replicative senescence and irradiation. We further identified an enrichment of common pathways in all models of senescence, suggesting a common cellular response to this silencing phenomenon. Such large‐scale clustered silencing of chromosomal segments rather than individual genes may explain senescence heterogeneity and a putative trajectory toward deep, irreversible senescence.
Deficits in general and smoking‐specific response inhibition in the Go/No‐Go task in individuals who smoke: A cross‐sectional analysis
Authors: Motka Franziska , Kühn Simone , Wittekind Charlotte E. 
Published: February 2025

AbstractBackground and aimsPrevious studies on response inhibition deficits in smoking have often been conducted in small, young, age‐homogeneous samples, without controlling for covariates or testing moderating effects. The primary research question compared response inhibition between a large, age‐diverse smoking sample and non‐smoking controls, and examined whether deficits were exacerbated toward smoking‐related stimuli. By accounting for key covariates and moderators, this study aimed to extend understanding of individual differences in response inhibition deficits in smoking.Design and settingCross‐sectional study conducted at a university laboratory in Munich, Germany.ParticipantsThe large (n = 122, 57% female), age‐diverse (Mage = 41.4, range: 21–70 years) smoking group comprised individuals with moderate to severe tobacco dependence participating in a smoking reduction intervention study. Controls comprised n = 69 healthy individuals with no smoking history.MeasurementsPrimary outcomes were commission error (CE) rates and mean reaction times in Go trials (Go‐RT) in general and smoking‐specific Go/No‐Go tasks (GNGTs). Covariates included age, sex and IQ. Smoking‐related variables were cigarettes per day (CPD), tobacco dependence severity and craving.FindingsGeneral GNGT: The smoking group exhibited significantly higher CE rates (P‐value < 0.001, medium effect, BF10 = 9.06) than the control group. Higher craving was associated with faster Go‐RTs (β = −1.487, P‐value = 0.041). Smoking‐specific GNGT: CE rates were significantly higher in the smoking group only when controlling for covariates (β = 1.272, P‐value = 0.040). Higher craving was associated with higher CE rates during smoking‐related trials (β = 0.108, P‐value = 0.010). The smoking group showed significantly faster Go‐RTs in response to smoking‐related compared with neutral stimuli, relative to the control group (β = −3.326, P‐value = 0.027). Preliminary evidence indicated that greater deficits were associated with higher scores in smoking‐related variables, but only in older individuals.ConclusionsIndividuals who smoke appear to exhibit response inhibition deficits, although these are not uniform and seem to be exacerbated during higher reported craving or in response to smoking‐related stimuli. Age may moderate the relationship between deficits and smoking‐related variables.
Economic Security and New Industrial Policy
Authors: Armstrong Shiro , Solís Mireya , Urata Shujiro 
Published: February 2025

ABSTRACTThe paper analyzes the emergence of Japan's economic security strategy to address the risks of weaponized interdependence in a context of heightened geopolitical tension. We detail the rapid institutionalization of economic security measures through the adoption of an Economic Security Promotion Act and ongoing reforms in areas such as foreign direct investment screening and export controls. We find, however, that Japan has made little headway in reducing its dependence on China for critical products, and export controls have had ambiguous trade effects. We discuss the role of the private sector in economic security and find significant divides by firm size on the uptake of new measures to address supply chain vulnerabilities and the protection of sensitive technologies. We examine the new industrial policy on semiconductors and point to the exigencies of success in fostering cutting‐edge technologies. Our conclusion identifies policy challenges going forward and offers possible solutions.
Preliminary Evidence of Great Apes' Occurrence in Peri‐Urban and Highly Degraded Forest Reserves in Cameroon
Authors: Mey Boudoug Jean Christian , Dewang Dyio Stephane , Fotie Cédric N. S. , Etah Kang Justin , Ndzana Isidore , Nguimdo Vouffo Vianny Rodel , Mbolo Marie Marguerite 
Published: February 2025

ABSTRACTThis study investigates the presence of great apes in degraded forests in Cameroon. Using camera traps, it reveals the occurrence of chimpanzees and gorillas in forest remnants within the highly degraded landscape formed by the Mbalmayo and Zamakoe Forest Reserves. Results support the persistence and adaptation of both species in forest/non‐forest mosaics and emphasise the need to conserve biodiversity beyond traditional protected areas. Further research is required to characterise the conservation status of both species in the area, their use of this fragmented landscape, and their relationship with neighbouring human communities.
Faecal Analysis as an Indicator of the Dietary Quality Utilised by Free‐Roaming Giraffe (Giraffa camelopardalis) in the Free State Province, South Africa
Authors: Grobbelaar Andri , Josling Gerbrecht Christina , Osthoff Gernot , Deacon Francois 
Published: February 2025

ABSTRACTAccurate monitoring of wildlife diets and nutrient requirements is needed for effective biodiversity conservation. This also rings true for the world's tallest ruminant, the giraffe (Giraffa camelopardalis). The complexity of its anatomy is also reflected in its intricate ruminant, digestive properties. Being selective browsers, giraffes have evolved unique ways to effectively maximise the absorption of dietary nutrients and thereby maintain their critical energy balance. Using non‐invasive faecal collections, the current study analysed 10 chemical parameters (dry matter, organic matter, ash, crude protein [CPf], crude fat, gross energy, neutral‐detergent fibre, acid‐detergent fibre [ADFfOM], acid‐detergent lignin [ADLfOM], and phosphorous) by chemical analyses, commonly used in domestic livestock health and nutrition monitoring. Fresh giraffe faecal samples were collected from six different locations, with different feeding practices, across different seasons from 2021 to 2023 in the Free State Province, South Africa. Results indicate that % CPf, % ADFfOM, and % ADLfOM may successfully and significantly differentiate between different feeding practices and between seasons from faeces collected from giraffe populations in the Free State Province and could be used conjunctive with each other to determine diet quality and nutrient value.
Clinical Trial: The Effects of Emulsifiers in the Food Supply on Disease Activity in Crohn's Disease: An Exploratory Double‐Blinded Randomised Feeding Trial
Authors: Fitzpatrick Jessica A. , Gibson Peter R. , Taylor Kirstin M. , Anderson Ellen J. , Friedman Antony B. , Ardalan Zaid S. , Smith Rebecca L. , Halmos Emma P. 
Published: February 2025

ABSTRACTBackgroundAdvice to avoid dietary emulsifiers in Crohn's disease (CD) is based on preclinical data.AimsTo examine the effect of diets high (HED) and low (LED) in emulsifiers in the food supply on disease activity in CD.MethodsIn a double‐blinded, randomised feeding study, we randomised adults with symptomatic, sonographically active CD with ileal involvement on ≥ 2 months' stable medical therapy to 4 weeks of a HED or LED modelled on Australian healthy eating guidelines. We measured the Harvey‐Bradshaw Index (HBI), sonographic indices (IBUS‐SAS, bowel wall thickness), quality of life (QOL) and fatigue at baseline and study completion.ResultsWe randomised 24 patients, mean age 37 (95% CI 32, 41) years, 12 male, HBI 6 (6, 8), bowel wall thickness 6.0 (5.5–6.6) mm. Adherence was > 95%. Clinical remission (HBI < 5) occurred in 9/12 on HED and 7/12 on LED; 2 and 3, respectively, withdrew early with increasing gastrointestinal symptoms. IBUS‐SAS fell from 51 (35, 68) to 33 (15, 51) on HED (p = 0.014) and from 57 (38, 76) to 44 (29, 59) on LED (p = 0.01). Bowel wall thickness reduced by 34% on HED and 15% on LED in those who completed the study. QOL and fatigue improved on both diets (p ≤ 0.05). There were no statistically significant differences in outcomes between diets.ConclusionsIn the context of a healthy diet, the emulsifier content had no influence over disease activity over 4 weeks in patients with CD. Recommendations to avoid emulsifiers in patients with active CD are not supported.Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ACTRN12619001099112).
Toxicological analyses of the bone matrix: Successes and challenges
Authors: Gaia Giordano , Lucie Biehler‐Gomez , Cristina Cattaneo , Domenico Di Candia 
Published: February 2025

AbstractThis study aimed to conduct an in‐depth and systematic literature review dealing with toxicological analyses on human bone tissue and focusing on the forensic toxicological and archaeotoxicological field. Several studies have focused their research on medical drugs, drugs of abuse, and trace elements on both human cadavers and skeletal remains, but a few studies tried to detect some traces of officinal plants in skeletal remains. The present paper illustrates the significant advances made in recent years in the field of bone toxicology considering all cases reported in the literature. After the literature review, the study investigated 40 articles that applied bone toxicology to both recent and ancient human remains, researching the presence of trace elements, stable isotopes, medical drugs, drugs of abuse, and active principles of medical plants. This allowed us to evaluate the distribution of skeletal remains studied around the world and throughout history, and to highlight the differences between trace elements/stable isotopes and medical drugs/drugs of abuse. Finally, this study permitted us to gather more information on molecule consumption (acute/single and/or occasional/chronic drug use) in this unconventional biological matrix, both in forensic cases and very ancient human remains, suggesting that the analytes detected in bones should be referred to occasional or chronic intake of substances.
Understanding variations in the use of tranexamic acid in surgery: A qualitative interview study
Authors: Strickland Louise , Evans Hayley G. , Palmer Antony , Warnakulasuriya Samantha , Murphy Michael F. , Stanworth Simon J. , Foy Robbie ,   NIHR BTRU in data driven transfusion practice collaborators
Published: February 2025

SummaryDespite robust supporting evidence, around a third of eligible surgical patients do not receive tranexamic acid (TXA). Effective strategies based on an understanding of clinical behaviour are needed to increase use and improve patient outcomes. We conducted semi‐structured interviews with clinicians involved in perioperative care to explore perceived influences on TXA use. We identified key influences on practice using the theoretical domains framework. We matched these to behaviour change techniques and evidence‐informed implementation intervention components. Across 22 interviews, we identified eight key influences within three overarching themes of capability, opportunity and motivation. Capability influences included the clinical context and variable familiarity with TXA. Opportunity concerned the availability of both TXA and checklists to support decision‐making and whether TXA use was consistent with professional expectations and perceived responsibilities. Motivation concerned confidence in administering TXA, perceived benefits and risks and training received around potential risk factors. These influences varied across participants and specialities. Our resulting proposed implementation strategy included training, clinical prompts, comparative performance feedback and opinion leadership supported by specialty‐specific guidance. Any strategy to increase TXA use that improves knowledge and skills without addressing wider influences on clinical behaviour is only likely to meet with limited success.
99mTc‐HYNIC PEGylated Peptide Probe Targeting HER2‐Expression in Breast Cancer
Authors: Yadav Sushree Arpitabala , Vats V. Kusum , Gupta Sonal , Repaka Krishna Mohan , Satpati Drishty 
Published: February 2025

ABSTRACTIncreased HER2 expression during breast cancer and its metastatic spread can be checked by specific probes having high affinity towards the target. This study aimed at developing 99mTc‐labelled HER2‐specific molecular probe for accurate detection. The two rL‐A9 peptide variants, HYNIC‐rL‐A9 and HYNIC‐PEG12‐rL‐A9 were manually synthesized by solid phase methodology. 99mTc‐labelling of peptides was accomplished using EDDA and tricine as co‐ligands. [99mTc]Tc‐HYNIC‐rL‐A9 showed poor uptake in HER2‐expressing human breast carcinoma SKBR3 cells whereas the PEGylated counterpart [99mTc]Tc‐HYNIC‐PEG12‐rL‐A9 demonstrated high specific cellular uptake (3.01% ± 0.14%) and low nanomolar binding affinity (Kd = 17.11 ± 7.63 nM). Tumour uptake (SKBR3) of [99mTc]Tc‐HYNIC‐PEG12‐rL‐A9 was higher at 1 and 3 h in comparison to the non‐PEGylated radiopeptide. Blocking studies led to 70% reduction in accumulation of radioactivity in the tumour indicating specificity of the radiopeptide. Introduction of polyethylene glycol (PEG12) as pharmacokinetic modifier led to significantly improved biological profile of the [99mTc]Tc‐HYNIC‐labelled rL‐A9 peptide conjugate.
Design and Synthesis of Novel MEK Inhibitors for the Treatment of Solid Tumors
Authors: Zeng Jingting , Luo Zhenshuo , Zhao Tiansheng , Xia Chunhua , Liu Fanglan , Li Na , Qu Lailiang , Wang Cheng 
Published: February 2025

ABSTRACTAberrant activation of the RAS/RAF/MEK/ERK pathway occurs in more than 30% of human cancers. As part of this pathway, MEK1/2 has crucial roles in tumorigenesis, cell proliferation, and inhibition of apoptosis. At present, a number of MEK1/2 inhibitors are approved for the treatment of melanoma. However, MEK1/2 inhibitors have poor single‐drug efficacy in the treatment of solid tumors and are prone to drug resistance. A series of compounds containing a diarylamine skeleton and phenylacrylamide (acrylamide) have been designed and synthesized in this paper. The most promising compound M15 showed good inhibitory activity of MEK1 (IC50 = 10.29 nM) and good inhibitory effect on three types of solid tumor cells: MDA‐MB‐231(IC50 = 2.76 μM), HepG2 (IC50 = 2.57 μM) and A549 (IC50 = 5.40 μM). At the same time, M15 was less toxic to human normal cells (MCF‐10A IC50 > 20 μM) and has certain stability of liver microsomes in vitro (human, t1/2 = 27.9 min; rat, t1/2 > 60 min). It can induce apoptosis of MDA‐MB‐231 cells and slow down their migration. Therefore, compound M15 acts as a novel MEK1/2 inhibitor and may be a promising candidate for solid tumor intervention.