bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Progress on intelligent metasurfaces for signal relay, transmitter, and processor
Authors: Qian Chao , Tian Longwei , Chen Hongsheng 
Published: February 2025

Abstract
Pursuing higher data rate with limited spectral resources is a longstanding topic that has triggered the fast growth of modern wireless communication techniques. However, the massive deployment of active nodes to compensate for propagation loss necessitates high hardware expenditure, energy consumption, and maintenance cost, as well as complicated network interference issues. Intelligent metasurfaces, composed of a number of subwavelength passive or active meta-atoms, have recently found to be a new paradigm to actively reshape wireless communication environment in a green way, distinct from conventional works that passively adapt to the surrounding. In this review, we offer a unified perspective on how intelligent metasurfaces can facilitate wireless communication in three manners: signal relay, signal transmitter, and signal processor. We start by the basic modeling of wireless channel and the evolution of metasurfaces from passive, active to intelligent metasurfaces. Integrated with various deep learning algorithms, intelligent metasurfaces adapt to cater for the ever-changing environments without human intervention. Then, we overview specific experimental advancements using intelligent metasurfaces. We conclude by identifying key issues in the practical implementations of intelligent metasurfaces, and surveying new directions, such as gain metasurfaces and knowledge migration.
Transparent, flexible graphene–ITO-based neural microelectrodes for simultaneous electrophysiology recording and calcium imaging of intracortical neural activity in freely moving mice
Authors: Yuan Miao , Li Fei , Xue Feng , Wang Yang , Li Baoqiang , Tang Rongyu , Wang Yijun , Bi Guo-Qiang , Pei Weihua 
Published: February 2025

Abstract
To understand the complex dynamics of neural activity in the brain across various temporal and spatial scales, it is crucial to record intracortical multimodal neural activity by combining electrophysiological recording and calcium imaging techniques. This poses significant constraints on the geometrical, mechanical, and optical properties of the electrodes. Here, transparent flexible graphene–ITO-based neural microelectrodes with small feature sizes are developed and validated for simultaneous electrophysiology recording and calcium imaging in the hippocampus of freely moving mice. A micro-etching technique and an oxygen plasma pre-treating method are introduced to facilitate large-area graphene transfer and establish stable low-impedance contacts between graphene and metals, leading to the batch production of high-quality microelectrodes with interconnect widths of 10 μm and recording sites diameters of 20 μm. These electrodes exhibit appropriate impedance and sufficient transparency in the field of view, enabling simultaneous recording of intracortical local field potentials and even action potentials along with calcium imaging in freely moving mice. Both types of electrophysiological signals are found to correlate with calcium activity. This proof-of-concept work demonstrates that transparent flexible graphene–ITO-based neural microelectrodes are promising tools for multimodal neuroscience research.
Early life growth is related to pubertal growth and adult height – a QEPS-model analysis
Authors: Skogastierna Carin , Holmgren Anton , Niklasson Aimon , Nierop Andreas F. M. , Pivodic Aldina , Elfvin Anders , Swolin-Eide Diana , Albertsson-Wikland Kerstin 
Published: February 2025

Abstract

Background
The early life growth period, from conception to ~2 years of age, has proven crucial for later health. We hypothesized that early life growth could explain variations in pubertal growth and timing, and adult height.

Methods
This retrospective, population-based study was conducted in Sweden. A subgroup, including individuals of all gestational ages and birth sizes (n = 4700, 50% males), from the longitudinal GrowUp1974&1990Gothenburg cohorts was used. QEPS variables were analyzed in univariate and multivariate linear regression models, separately per sex; Q-function throughout all growth periods, and specific E- and P-functions, for early life growth and pubertal growth, respectively.

Results
In multivariate models, early life growth explained 37–38% of the variability in specific pubertal growth, but less so the variability in pubertal timing. Variability in adult height was explained by birth size (57–62%), early growth (66–67%), childhood growth (65–69%), and to a lesser degree by mid-parental height (35–39%). The change in height during puberty explained 8–9% of the variation in adult height.

Conclusion
This study indicates that early life growth is strongly associated with the variability in pubertal growth, and adult height, but not with the timing of pubertal growth.

Impact

Early life growth is important as it can serve as a marker for future growth, development, and health.

The association between length growth during fetal life and infancy and pubertal growth and timing, and adult height, is only partly understood.

Using the QEPS growth model, specific early life growth (E-function) and specific pubertal growth (P-function), including individual variations in tempo and amplitude, can be studied separately from ongoing basic growth (Q-function).

This study showed that early life growth is strongly associated with and explains specific pubertal height gain and adult height but less so the timing of pubertal growth.
The midline thalamic nucleus reuniens promotes compulsive-like grooming in rodents
Authors: Goh Romeo Chen Wei , Mu Ming-Dao , Yung Wing-Ho , Ke Ya 
Published: February 2025

Abstract
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), a disabling and notoriously treatment-resistant neuropsychiatric disorder, affects 2–3% of the general population and is characterized by recurring, intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive, ritualistic behaviors (compulsions). Although long associated with dysfunction within the cortico-striato-thalamic-cortical circuits, the thalamic role in OCD pathogenesis remains highly understudied in the literature. Here, we identified a rat thalamic nucleus – the reuniens (NRe) – that mediates persistent, compulsive self-grooming behavior. Optogenetic activation of this nucleus triggers immediate, excessive grooming with strong irresistibility, increases anxiety, and induces negative affective valence. A thalamic-hypothalamic pathway linking NRe to the dorsal premammillary nucleus (PMd) was discovered to mediate excessive self-grooming behavior and render it a defensive coping response to stress, mirroring the compulsions faced by OCD patients. Given the close resemblance between this self-grooming behavior and the clinical manifestations of OCD, the results from this study highlight the role of NRe in mediating OCD-like compulsive behaviors. This can be attributed to NRe’s position at the nexus of an extensive frontal-striatal-thalamic network regulating cognition, emotion, and stress-related behaviors, suggesting NRe as a potential novel target for intervention.
The structure and stability of Fe4+xS3 and its potential to form a Martian inner core
Authors: Man Lianjie , Li Xiang , Boffa Ballaran Tiziana , Zhou Wenju , Chantel Julien , Néri Adrien , Kupenko Ilya , Aprilis Georgios , Kurnosov Alexander , Namur Olivier , Hanfland Michael , Guignot Nicolas , Henry Laura , Dubrovinsky Leonid , Frost Daniel. J. 
Published: February 2025

Abstract
Seismic, geodetic and cosmochemical evidence point to Mars having a sulfur-rich liquid core. Due to the similarity between estimates of the core’s sulfur content and the iron–iron sulfide eutectic composition at core conditions, it has been concluded that temperatures are too high for Mars to have an inner core. Recent low density estimates for the core, however, appear consistent with sulfur contents that are higher than the eutectic composition, leading to the possibility that an inner core could form from a high-pressure iron sulfide phase. Here we report the crystal structure of a phase with the formula Fe4+xS3, the iron content of which increases with temperature, approaching the stoichiometry Fe5S3 under Martian inner core conditions. We show that Fe4+xS3 has a higher density than the liquid Martian core and that a Fe4+xS3 inner core would crystalize if temperatures fall below 1960 (±105) K at the center of Mars.
Ergodic seismic precursors and transfer learning for short term eruption forecasting at data scarce volcanoes
Authors: Ardid Alberto , Dempsey David , Caudron Corentin , Cronin Shane , Kennedy Ben , Girona Társilo , Roman Diana , Miller Craig , Potter Sally , Lamb Oliver D. , Martanto Anto , Cubuk-Sabuncu Yesim , Cabrera Leoncio , Ruiz Sergio , Contreras Rodrigo , Pacheco Javier , Mora Mauricio M. , De Angelis Silvio 
Published: February 2025

Abstract
Seismic data recorded before volcanic eruptions provides important clues for forecasting. However, limited monitoring histories and infrequent eruptions restrict the data available for training forecasting models. We propose a transfer machine learning approach that identifies eruption precursors—signals that consistently change before eruptions—across multiple volcanoes. Using seismic data from 41 eruptions at 24 volcanoes over 73 years, our approach forecasts eruptions at unobserved (out-of-sample) volcanoes. Tested without data from the target volcano, the model demonstrated accuracy comparable to direct training on the target and exceeded benchmarks based on seismic amplitude. These results indicate that eruption precursors exhibit ergodicity, sharing common patterns that allow observations from one group of volcanoes to approximate the behavior of others. This approach addresses data limitations at individual sites and provides a useful tool to support monitoring efforts at volcano observatories, improving the ability to forecast eruptions and mitigate volcanic risks.
Assessing the climate benefits of afforestation in the Canadian Northern Boreal and Southern Arctic
Authors: Dsouza Kevin Bradley , Ofosu Enoch , Salkeld Jack , Boudreault Richard , Moreno-Cruz Juan , Leonenko Yuri 
Published: February 2025

Abstract
Afforestation greatly influences several earth system processes, making it essential to understand these effects to accurately assess its potential for climate change mitigation. Although our understanding of forest-climate system interactions has improved, significant knowledge gaps remain, preventing definitive assessments of afforestation's net climate benefits. In this review, focusing on the Canadian northern boreal and southern arctic, we identify these gaps and synthesize existing knowledge. The review highlights regional realities, Earth's climatic history, uncertainties in biogeochemical (BGC) and biogeophysical (BGP) changes following afforestation, and limitations in current assessment methodologies, emphasizing the need to reconcile these uncertainties before drawing firm conclusions about the climate benefits of afforestation. Finally, we propose an assessment framework which considers multiple forcing components, temporal analysis, future climatic contexts, and implementation details. We hope that the research gaps and assessment framework discussed in this review inform afforestation policy in Canada and other circumpolar nations.
Synchrony between midbrain gene transcription and dopamine terminal regulation is modulated by chronic alcohol drinking
Authors: Farahbakhsh Zahra Z. , Holleran Katherine M. , Sens Jonathon P. , Fordahl Steve C. , Mauterer Madelyn I. , López Alberto J. , Cuzon Carlson Verginia C. , Kiraly Drew D. , Grant Kathleen A. , Jones Sara R. , Siciliano Cody A. 
Published: February 2025

Abstract
Alcohol use disorder is marked by disrupted behavioral and emotional states which persist into abstinence. The enduring synaptic alterations that remain despite the absence of alcohol are of interest for interventions to prevent relapse. Here, 28 male rhesus macaques underwent over 20 months of alcohol drinking interspersed with three 30-day forced abstinence periods. After the last abstinence period, we paired direct sub-second dopamine monitoring via ex vivo voltammetry in nucleus accumbens core with RNA-sequencing of the ventral tegmental area. We found persistent augmentation of dopamine transporter function, kappa opioid receptor sensitivity, and putative dynorphin release – all inhibitory regulators which act to decrease extracellular dopamine. Surprisingly, though transcript expression was not altered, the relationship between gene expression and functional readouts of these encoded proteins was highly dynamic and altered by drinking history. These results outline the long-lasting synaptic impact of alcohol use and suggest that assessment of transcript-function relationships is critical for the rational design of precision therapeutics.
Discovery and characterization of a novel telomerase alternative splicing isoform that protects lung cancer cells from chemotherapy induced cell death
Authors: Kim Jeongjin J. , Ahn Alexander , Ying Jeffrey Y. , Ludlow Andrew T. 
Published: February 2025

Abstract
All cancer cells must adopt a telomere maintenance mechanism to achieve replicative immortality. Most human cancer cells utilize the enzyme telomerase to maintain telomeres. Alternative splicing of TERT regulates the amount and function of telomerase, however many alternative splicing isoforms of TERT have unknown functions. Single molecule long read RNA/cDNA sequencing of TERT revealed 45 TERT mRNA variants including 13 known and 32 novel variants. Among the variants, TERT Delta 2–4, which lacks exons 2–4 but retains the original open reading frame, was selected for further study. Induced pluripotent stem cells and cancer cells express higher levels of TERT Delta 2–4 compared to primary human bronchial epithelial cells. Overexpression of TERT Delta 2–4 enhanced clonogenicity and resistance to cisplatin-induced cell death. Knockdown of endogenous TERT Delta 2–4 in Calu-6 cells reduced clonogenicity and resistance to cisplatin. Our results suggest that TERT Delta 2–4 enhances cancer cells’ resistance to cell death. RNA sequencing following knockdown of Delta 2–4 TERT indicates that translation is downregulated and that mitochondrial related proteins are upregulated compared to controls. Overall, our data indicate that TERT produces many isoforms that influence the function of TERT and the abundance and activity of telomerase.
Performance evaluation of Cu2SrSnS4 based solar cell: effect of transition metal dichalcogenides buffer layer
Authors: Mebrek Hanane , Zaidi Beddiaf , Mekhaznia Nourelhouda , Al-Dmour Hmoud , Barkhordari Ali 
Published: February 2025

Abstract
The urgent demand for efficient renewable energy technologies has driven extensive research into quaternary chalcogenide materials, owing to their outstanding photovoltaic properties and potential for high performance. This study focuses on the design, performance optimization, and comparative analysis of Cu2SrSnS4-based solar cells, with particular emphasis on employing different transition metal dichalcogenide (TMD) buffer layers, specifically MoS2 and WS2. By utilizing SCAPS 1-D simulation software, the research systematically examines the impact of critical parameters such as buffer layer thickness, doping concentrations, and operating temperatures on the solar cell’s efficiency and stability. The simulation results demonstrate that the ZnO/MoS2/Cu2SrSnS4 configuration attained the highest efficiency, reaching an impressive 35.6%, significantly surpassing its counterpart with WS2 as the buffer layer, which achieved an efficiency of 29.1%. The findings demonstrate the significance of buffer layer selection and parameter optimization in maximizing the potential of Cu2SrSnS4 solar cells. Ultimately, this research offers valuable insights into the development of high-efficiency, stable photovoltaic technologies, advancing the future of next-generation quaternary chalcogenide solar cells.
Enhancing seasonal fire predictions with hybrid dynamical and random forest models
Authors: Torres-Vázquez Miguel Ángel , Herrera Sixto , Gincheva Andrina , Halifa-Marín Amar , Cavicchia Leone , Di Giuseppe Francesca , Montávez Juan Pedro , Turco Marco 
Published: February 2025

Abstract
This study presents an innovative approach to forecasting seasonal anomalies in burned areas (BA) by integrating process-based seasonal prediction and a random forest climate-fire model. The Standardized Precipitation Index (SPI), derived from observed precipitation, allows us to predict burned area anomalies a month before the start of the target fire season in ~68% of the burnable area. When utilizing seasonal predictions, the system maintains skillful results in ~46% of the burnable area. Given the availability of observational and forecast data in near-real-time, a prototype operational forecast for burned areas could be provided to enhance climate services.
Ubiquitin is directly linked via an ester to protein-conjugated mono-ADP-ribose
Authors: Bejan Daniel S , Lacoursiere Rachel E , Pruneda Jonathan N , Cohen Michael S 
Published: February 2025

Abstract
The prevailing view on post-translational modifications (PTMs) is that a single amino acid is modified with a single PTM at any given time. However, recent work has demonstrated crosstalk between different PTMs, some occurring on the same residue. Such interplay is seen with ADP-ribosylation and ubiquitylation. For example, DELTEX E3 ligases were reported to ubiquitylate a hydroxyl group on free NAD+ and ADP-ribose in vitro, generating a noncanonical ubiquitin ester-linked species. In this report, we show, for the first time, that this dual PTM occurs in cells on mono-ADP-ribosylated (MARylated) PARP10 on Glu/Asp sites to form a MAR ubiquitin ester. We call this process mono-ADP-ribosyl ubiquitylation or MARUbylation. Using chemical and enzymatic treatments, including a newly characterized bacterial deubiquitinase with esterase-specific activity, we discovered that multiple PARPs are MARUbylated and extended with K11-linked polyubiquitin chains when exogenously expressed. Finally, we show that in response to type I interferon stimulation, MARUbylation can occur endogenously on PARP targets. Thus, MARUbylation represents a new dual PTM that broadens our understanding of the function of PARP-mediated ADP-ribosylation in cells.
Polymorphie DNA repair genes XRCC1 and XRCC3 and the risk for cervical cancer in Brazilian patients
Authors: Colacino-Silva Fabricio , de Oliveira Kleine João Paulo Ferreira , Salzgeber Márcia Batista , de Aquino Castro Rodrigo , Girão Manoel João Batista Castello , da Silva Ismael Dale Cotrim Guerreiro , D’Amora Paulo 
Published: February 2025

ABSTRACT
Background: DNA repair genes play a key role in maintaining genomic stability and integrity. DNA repair gene polymorphisms, such as X-ray repair cross-complementing group 1 and 3 genes (XRCC1 and XRCC3), are implicated to contribute to carcinogenesis.
Objective: In this study, we investigated the correlation between cervical cancer risk and XRCC1 (Arg-l94Trp and Arg399Gln) and XRCC3 (Thr24IMet) genetic variants.
Methods: A case-control study of 77 cases of cervical cancer (including 70 carcinoma and 7 adenocarcinoma) and 73 normal women was performed. Three single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) (XRCC1, and XRCC3) were genotyped by polymerase chain reaction and restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP).
Results: Genotype frequencies of were similar between cases and controls: (XRCC1 - Arg194Trp [C-T]): CC 60(77.9%), CT 16(20.8%) e TT 1(1.3%) in cases and CC 57(78,1%), CT 16(21,9%) e TT 0(0%) in controls (p=1.00); (XRCC1 - Arg399Gln [G-A]): GG 13(16.9%), GA 28(36.4%) e AA 36(46.8%) in cases and GG 10(13,7%), GA 47(64,4%), AA 16(21,9%) in controls (p=0.01); (XRCC3 - Thr241Met [C-T]): CC 43(55,8%), CT 28(36,4%), TT 6(7,8%) in cases and CC 36(48,6%), CT 30(41,7%), TT 7(9,7%) in controls, (p=0.74). We found association XRCC1(Arg399Gln) and the risk for cervical cancer as a protective factor [OR = 0.20; IC=0.05-0.73, p=0.02] and found no association between XRCC1 (Arg194Trp) and XRCC3 (Thr241Met) polymorphisms and the risk of cervical cancer in our study.
Conclusion: Our results showed that there was positive correlation between the genetic variation Arg399Gln in XRCC1 gene and the susceptibility to cervical carcinoma in the studied population.
Germ Cell Tumors in Children: A Retrospective Review of a 04-Year Single-Center Experience
Authors: Aftab Kanwal , Ambreen Fatima , Maqsood Sidra , Yaqoob Nausheen , Jamal Saba 
Published: February 2025

Abstract
Introduction Pediatric germ cell tumors (GCTs) are rare neoplasms that can be benign or malignant and occur in children and adolescents. They can arise from germ cells in the extragonadal or gonadal sites and have numerous histologic subtypes. The International Germ Cell Cancer Cooperative Group classification is used to guide treatment, with most children experiencing excellent overall survival (OS). Chemotherapy is historically recommended for all malignant GCTs. Nevertheless, surgery and observation alone may be sufficient for stage I gonadal GCTs. Using chemotherapy can lead to successful salvage of relapses..
Objectives Our institute has conducted a study with the objective of evaluating a group of 97 patients diagnosed with GCTs, who received treatment within the past 4 years.
Materials and Methods From January 2018 to April 2022, a total of 97 pediatric patients diagnosed with GCTs underwent surgical treatment at Indus Hospital & Health Network. The diagnosis was established by considering clinical features, tumor marker levels, imaging, and histology. Treatment was determined based on the risk stratification utilizing the United Kingdom Children's Cancer Study Group GC 2005–04 protocol. Patients classified as LR (low-risk) received chemotherapy only if a recurrence occurred after the initial surgery. On the other hand, IR (intermediate-risk) and HR (high-risk) patients received four and six cycles of JEB (chemotherapy regimen), respectively, followed by surgery. Recurrence was closely monitored through suspicion, tumor marker levels, or imaging. Patients experiencing a recurrence after JEB chemotherapy were treated with TIP (paclitaxel, ifosfamide, and cisplatin) chemotherapy and subsequently underwent surgery.
Results In this retrospective study, a group of 97 patients diagnosed with GCTs was analyzed. The cohort included 59 gonadal tumors and 38 extragonadal tumors. The most common histopathological types observed were yolk sac tumor and dysgerminoma. Out of the patients, 33 (34%) were classified as HR, 35 (36.1%) as IR, and 29 (29.9%) as LR. Among the patients, 16 experienced recurrence, while the remaining 90 patients (92.8%) were alive at the time of the analysis. The study determined the 5-year event-free survival (EFS) rate as 83.5% and the OS rate as 92.8%. The presence of residual disease was found to be the only significant factor that influenced EFS.
Conclusion To manage GCTs in children, a multidisciplinary approach involving surgeons, oncologists, and radiation therapists is required. Surgery and chemotherapy have improved outcomes for children with GCTs, but personalized treatment planning is crucial. With advancements in pediatric oncology care, the prognosis for children with GCT in Pakistan has improved, providing hope for better outcomes in the future.