bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
A comparison of endothelial cell count, central corneal thickness and intraocular pressure in different ethnic groups in the Western Cape, South Africa
Authors: Bhika Raquel , Zunza Moleen , Smit Derrick 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Purpose
To compare endothelial cell counts (ECC), central corneal thickness (CCT) and intraocular pressure (IOP) in different ethnic groups.

Methods
Between January 2019 and December 2021, we enrolled 373 patients who self-identified as native African (116), ethnically diverse (157) or of European descent (100). Mean intraocular pressure (IOP), CCT and ECC were recorded.

Results
IOP was similar between the groups (African mean IOP 15.7 ± 2.2 mmHg, ethnically diverse 15.8 ± 2.2 mmHg, European 16.0 ± 2.0 mmHg, p = 0.48). There were age differences but no gender differences between ethnic groups. Mean CCT was 503.6 ± 30.0 µm (African), 516.8 ± 30.0 µm (ethnically diverse) and 539.1 ± 34.2 µm (European) (p < 0.002 for all). Mean ECC was 2775 ± 272 cells/mm2 (African), 2678 ± 233 cells/mm2 (ethnically diverse) and 2639 ± 313 cells/mm2 (European). These differences were significant between Africans and Europeans (p = 0.001) and Africans and ethnically diverse groups (p = 0.01).

Conclusion
ECC was highest in Africans with lowest CCT and conversely, Europeans demonstrated lowest ECC and highest CCT. Ethnically diverse participants demonstrated values between those of Africans and Europeans. We hypothesize that genomic research is required to determine if these differences have a genetic basis.
Efficacy of Amphora coffeaeformis supplemented diets in improving growth performance, health status, and resistance to Aeromonas sobria in Oreochromis niloticus exposed to suboptimal temperature conditions
Authors: Ibrahim Hosny A. , Reda Rasha M. , Galal Azza A. A. , Mahmoud Shahira H. , Abdallah Samar H. 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Climate change affects aquaculture to a significant extent, while one of the primary threats to Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) growth and health is suboptimal temperatures. The objective of this study was to assess the effects of Amphora coffeaeformis powder and extract on the growth performance and health status of tilapia grown in suboptimal temperature (21 °C). A total of 180 fish (31.39 ± 0.5 g) were randomly allocated into six groups, each with three replicates. The control group was fed a basal diet. The second and third groups were supplemented with 50 g kg−1 (AMP50) and 70 g kg−1 (AMP70) of A. coffeaeformis powder, respectively. The fourth and fifth groups received 50 g kg−1 (AME50) and 70 g kg−1 (AME70) of A. coffeaeformis extract, respectively. The sixth group (OXY) was fed a diet with 500 mg kg⁻1 of oxytetracycline. After a 60-day feeding trial, all fish were challenged with Aeromonas sobria. The findings indicated that the extract of A. coffeaeformis, particularly at a concentration of 70 g kg−1 diet, significantly enhanced growth performance, hematological and biochemical parameters, antioxidant and immunological markers. Additionally, it notably increased resistance against A. sobria. These results suggest that A. coffeaeformis supplementation, particularly AME at 70 g kg−1, effectively mitigates suboptimal temperature effects on Nile tilapia productivity by enhancing growth, health, and disease resistance.
Creating equitable learning environments by building on differences in higher education: design and implementation of the MIXED model
Authors: Ramdas Siema , Slootman Marieke , van der Zee Karen 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Creating truly equitable education is a challenge. Equity, diversity, and inclusion endeavours are often characterized by a depreciative deficit-thinking and a problem-based view on diversity. In this article, we present the MIXED model (Multi-perspective Inclusive eXchanges for Equity and Diversity), which can support lecturers in establishing an inclusive learning environment by building on different perspectives and talents in the (college) classroom. The model offers both inspiration and practical guidance as it describes a vision, strategies, and examples of learning activities for various classroom settings (online/offline, larger/smaller). We also describe the theoretical framework and the process of development and implementation. The MIXED model, developed at the Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, unpacks three phases in classroom dynamics. Feedback from lecturers indicates utilizing the model can lead to a more equitable learning environment. This approach aims to educate future academics and professionals who are capable of building on the different perspectives in diverse settings when resolving complex societal problems.
Antimicrobial properties of carbon “quantum” dots for food safety applications
Authors: Collins Jordan , Yang Liju , Dong Xiuli , Sun Ya-Ping 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Carbon dots represent a rapidly advancing and expanding research field, with a large number of literature reports on their potential technological applications including those relevant to food safety. In this article, the dot samples prepared by the deliberate chemical functionalization of preexisting small carbon nanoparticles or by thermal carbonization of various organic precursors under different processing conditions are highlighted and critiqued for their similarities and differences in sample structure-morphology and properties, especially antimicrobial properties for their food safety–related uses. Also highlighted and discussed are representative recent examples for the use of dot samples to inactivate foodborne pathogens, disrupt biofilms or prevent their formation, and extend the shelf life of food products, which involve different antibacterial mechanisms. Some perspectives on the further development of the carbon dots–based/derived antimicrobial platform and related excellent application opportunities in food safety are provided.
Magnetic Field-Constrained Ensemble Image Segmentation of Coronal Holes in Chromospheric Observations
Authors: Landeros Jaime A. , Kirk Michael S. , Arge C. Nick , Boucheron Laura E. , Zhang Jie , Uritsky Vadim M. , Grajeda Jeremy A. , Dupertuis Matthew 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Coronal holes (CHs) are large-scale, low-density regions in the solar atmosphere that may expel high-speed solar wind streams that incite hazardous, geomagnetic storms. Coronal and solar wind models can predict these high-speed streams, and the performance of the coronal model can be validated against segmented CH boundaries. We present a novel method named Sub-Transition Region Identification of Ensemble Coronal Holes (STRIDE-CH) to address prominent challenges in segmenting CHs using extreme-ultraviolet (EUV) imagery. Ground-based, chromospheric He i 10,830 Å line imagery and underlying Fe i photospheric magnetograms are revisited to disambiguate CHs from filaments and quiet Sun, overcome obscuration by coronal loops, and complement established methods in the community which use space-borne coronal EUV observations. Classical computer vision techniques are applied to constrain the radiative and magnetic properties of detected CHs, produce an ensemble of boundaries, and compile these boundaries in a confidence map that quantifies the likelihood of the CH presence throughout the solar disk. This method is a science-enabling one towards future studies of CH formation and variability from a mid-atmospheric perspective.
Diagnosing milk aspiration as a cause of death in sudden unexpected infant death: forensic insights from post-mortem analysis impacting criminal investigations
Authors: Tavone Alessandro Mauro , Servadei Francesca , Cazzato Francesca , Giacobbi Erica , Bonfiglio Rita , Oliva Antonio , Marella Gian Luca 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Sudden unexpected infant death (SUID) encompasses both explained and unexplained infant fatalities. When a comprehensive investigation yields inconclusive results, the case is classified as sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). On the other hand, the most frequent non-SIDS diagnoses may be attributed to specific causes of death including a heterogeneous spectrum of conditions and disorders (e.g., trauma, asphyxia, suffocation, infection and metabolic diseases). Although rare, milk aspiration is a recognized cause of SUID that can lead to acute respiratory failure. This case report describes the death of a three-month-old infant found unresponsive in a traditional African baby carrier. Gross examination revealed no significant anomalies other than increased lung weight and the presence of milk-like material in the airways, alveoli, and stomach. Histological and ultrastructural analyses identified granular brownish material with birefringent globules in the lungs, consistent with aspirated milk. Immunohistochemical staining was positive for beta-lactoglobulin, confirming formula milk aspiration. This evidence was crucial in excluding maternal negligence as a cause of death, instead supporting an ante-mortem aspiration event resulting from regurgitation. This case highlights the diagnostic challenges associated with fatal milk aspiration and emphasizes the critical importance of a multidisciplinary approach. The integration of clinical history, autopsy findings, and advanced histopathological techniques is essential for accurately determining the cause of death and ensuring a sound legal assessment within the Courtroom setting.
Chronic graft-versus-host disease myelitis successfully treated with rituximab
Authors: Yokoyama Emi , Hasegawa Yuta , Wakaki Kentaro , Suzuki Touma , Kajikawa Sayaka , Kanaya Minoru , Izumiyama Koh , Saito Makoto , Morioka Masanobu , Nagai Jun , Ichiki Tomoe , Kikuchi Ryo , Okada Satomi , Ohigashi Hiroyuki , Goto Hideki , Onozawa Masahiro , Hashimoto Daigo , Mori Akio , Teshima Takanori , Kondo Takeshi 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Chronic graft-versus-host disease (cGVHD) is a major serious complication after allogeneic stem-cell transplantation (allo-HSCT), and often mimics autoimmune diseases. Central nervous system (CNS) symptoms are rare manifestations of cGVHD, and are difficult to diagnose. CNS manifestations of cGVHD were discussed in the 2020 National Institutes of Health cGVHD Consensus Project as one of the “atypical cGVHD manifestations” with involvement of various organ systems other than classical cGVHD organs. We experienced a case of myelitis after allo-HSCT diagnosed as cGVHD of the CNS. The neurological symptoms progressed after corticosteroid pulse therapy, resulting in severe paralysis and paresthesia of the lower extremities. The clinical course and magnetic resonance imaging findings showed some similarities with multiple sclerosis. We decided to use rituximab after the patient became refractory to corticosteroids because rituximab has been reported to be effective in multiple sclerosis by suppressing B cells on both sides of the blood–brain barrier. Rituximab was effective for the neurologic symptoms in our case. In atypical cGVHD, treatments used in corresponding autoimmune diseases may be reasonable and effective.
Modulus estimates of semirings with applications to boundary extension problems
Authors: Golberg Anatoly , Sugawa Toshiyuki , Vuorinen Matti 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
In our previous paper (Golberg et al. in Comput Methods Funct Theory 20(3–4):539–558, 2020), we proved that the complementary components of a ring domain in

$$\mathbb {R}^n$$

R

n

with large enough modulus may be separated by an annular ring domain and applied this result to boundary correspondence problems under quasiconformal mappings. In the present paper, we continue this work and investigate boundary extension problems for a larger class of mappings.
Laser-Induced Nanowire Percolation Interlocking for Ultrarobust Soft Electronics
Authors: Jung Yeongju , Pyun Kyung Rok , Yu Sejong , Ahn Jiyong , Kim Jinsol , Park Jung Jae , Lee Min Jae , Lee Byunghong , Won Daeyeon , Bang Junhyuk , Ko Seung Hwan 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Metallic nanowires have served as novel materials for soft electronics due to their outstanding mechanical compliance and electrical properties. However, weak adhesion and low mechanical robustness of nanowire networks to substrates significantly undermine their reliability, necessitating the use of an insulating protective layer, which greatly limits their utility. Herein, we present a versatile and generalized laser-based process that simultaneously achieves strong adhesion and mechanical robustness of nanowire networks on diverse substrates without the need for a protective layer. In this method, the laser-induced photothermal energy at the interface between the nanowire network and the substrate facilitates the interpenetration of the nanowire network and the polymer matrix, resulting in mechanical interlocking through percolation. This mechanism is broadly applicable across different metallic nanowires and thermoplastic substrates, significantly enhancing its universality in diverse applications. Thereby, we demonstrated the mechanical robustness of nanowires in reusable wearable physiological sensors on the skin without compromising the performance of the sensor. Furthermore, enhanced robustness and electrical conductivity by the laser-induced interlocking enables a stable functionalization of conducting polymers in a wet environment, broadening its application into various electrochemical devices.
Numerical analysis of factors causing long-term trends and annual variations of sulfur and nitrogen deposition amount in Japan from 2000 to 2020
Authors: Chatani Satoru , Shimadera Hikari , Kitayama Kyo , Nishina Kazuya 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
The deposition of sulfur and nitrogen from the atmosphere to the ground surface is harmful to ecosystems. This study performed long-term air quality simulations to quantify the influences of factors, including anthropogenic emissions in Japan, meteorological fields, transboundary transport, and volcanic emissions, on the long-term trends and annual variations in sulfur and nitrogen deposition in Japan from 2000 to 2020. The air quality simulations performed well in reproducing the long-term trends and annual variations in the wet deposition amount, whereas the simulated dry deposition amount may contain larger uncertainties. The decreasing trends in sulfur deposition were statistically significant during the entire study period (2000–2020) in most of Japan. They were caused by the reduction of anthropogenic SO2 emissions in Japan and China, which was accomplished by the implementation of stringent emission controls, as well as a gradual decrease in SO2 emissions from the Miyakejima volcano, which erupted in 2000. No significant decreasing trends were found in nitrogen deposition in Japan during the first half of the study period (2000–2010). Decreases caused by the reduction in anthropogenic NOx emissions in Japan were compensated for by increases caused by increasing NOx emissions in China and changes in the gas-aerosol partitioning of nitrates instead of sulfates. The decreasing trend in nitrogen deposition in Japan became statistically significant during the second half of the study period (2010–2020) after anthropogenic NOx emissions started to decline in China. Meteorological fields primarily influenced annual variations in the amount of nitrogen deposition. This study reveals that long-term air quality simulations are useful for quantifying the influences of various factors on long-term trends and annual variations in sulfur and nitrogen deposition.

Graphical Abstract
Portable Accessible MRI in Dementia Research: Ethical Considerations About Research Representation and Dementia-Friendly Technology
Authors: Klein Eran , Duke Han S. , Tuite Paul , Taylor Kimberly W. , Agarwal Mohit 
Published: January 2025

AbstractThe introduction of portable MRI (pMRI) has the potential to directly impact dementia research and ultimately clinical care. In this paper, we explore two ethical challenges facing the introduction of pMRI in dementia research. The first is the need to ensure that pMRI enhances rather than undermines efforts aimed at improving ethnoracial representation in dementia research. The second is the need to implement pMRI in dementia research in a dementia-friendly way that attends to the social context and lived experience of people with dementia.
Diminution of Public Health Agency Authorities Post-Loper
Authors: Hodge James G. , Lauzon Maxwell 
Published: January 2025

AbstractIn a new era of regulatory oversight, the US Supreme Court upended traditional Chevron deference to agency interpretations of ambiguous Congressional provisions in Loper in June 2024. Federal courts were instructed to make their own assessments of statutory authorities amid an onslaught of public health agency challenges surfacing nationally. Even so, SCOTUS may be eyeing further limits on agency powers despite clear and substantial repercussions for the health of the nation.
Variable Shapes Observed in Electron Bouncing Microburst Packets
Authors: Feinland Max A. , Blum Lauren W. 
Published: January 2025

AbstractCharacterizing relativistic electron precipitation remains an important endeavor in the space sciences, as competing sources of transport, acceleration, and loss affect the content and energy distribution of the radiation belts in both space and time. Here we examine rapid electron precipitation events by searching through 4 years of data collected by the Solar Anomalous and Magnetospheric Particle Explorer satellite to find bouncing microburst packets of 1 MeV electrons. Multiple shapes, beyond solely the peaks of decaying amplitude that are expected from the literature, are discovered. Furthermore, evidence for both full‐ and half‐bounce‐period events is presented. These findings suggest that the processes by which bouncing electron microburst packets are produced may be more complex than is represented by the existing literature, with various factors influencing the shape observed by spacecraft.
Estrogen-dependent activation of TRX2 reverses oxidative stress and metabolic dysfunction associated with steatotic disease
Authors: Smiriglia Alfredo , Lorito Nicla , Bacci Marina , Subbiani Angela , Bonechi Francesca , Comito Giuseppina , Kowalik Marta Anna , Perra Andrea , Morandi Andrea 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) encompasses a spectrum of hepatic disorders, ranging from simple steatosis to steatohepatitis, with the most severe outcomes including cirrhosis, liver failure, and hepatocellular carcinoma. Notably, MASLD prevalence is lower in premenopausal women than in men, suggesting a potential protective role of estrogens in mitigating disease onset and progression. In this study, we utilized preclinical in vitro models—immortalized cell lines and hepatocyte-like cells derived from human embryonic stem cells—exposed to clinically relevant steatotic-inducing agents. These exposures led to lipid droplet (LD) accumulation, increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, and mitochondrial dysfunction, along with decreased expression of markers associated with hepatocyte functionality and differentiation. Estrogen treatment in steatotic-induced liver cells resulted in reduced ROS levels and LD content while preserving mitochondrial integrity, mediated by the upregulation of mitochondrial thioredoxin 2 (TRX2), an antioxidant system regulated by the estrogen receptor. Furthermore, disruption of TRX2, either pharmacologically using auranofin or through genetic interference, was sufficient to counteract the protective effects of estrogens, highlighting a potential mechanism through which estrogens may prevent or slow MASLD progression.
Histone lactylation promotes multidrug resistance in hepatocellular carcinoma by forming a positive feedback loop with PTEN
Authors: Zeng Yuan , Jiang Haoran , Chen Zhoufeng , Xu Jun , Zhang Xiangting , Cai Weimin , Zeng Xianjie , Ma Peipei , lin Rong , Yu Huilin , He Yuanhang , Ying Huiya , Zhou Ruoru , Wu Xiao , Yu Fujun 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
FOLFOX (5-fluorouracil, oxaliplatin, folinic acid) is a standard treatment for hepatocellular carcinoma, but its efficacy is often limited by drug resistance, the underlying mechanisms of which remain unclear. In this study, oxaliplatin (OXA)- and 5-fluorouracil (5-Fu)-resistant hepatocellular carcinoma cell lines were established, and enhanced glycolytic activity was identified in resistant cells. Inhibiting glycolysis effectively suppressed the malignant behavior of both OXA- and 5-Fu-resistant cells. Mechanistically, active glycolysis induced elevated levels of lactylation, predominantly histone lactylation, with H3K14la playing a key role in regulating gene expression. The ubiquitin E3 ligase NEDD4 was identified as a downstream target of H3K14la. Furthermore, NEDD4, regulated by histone lactylation, interacted with PTEN to mediate its ubiquitination and subsequent degradation. The downregulation of PTEN formed a positive feedback loop, further driving the malignant progression of OXA- and 5-Fu-resistant cells. This study elucidates a shared mechanism underlying OXA and 5-Fu resistance in hepatocellular carcinoma and highlights a promising therapeutic target for overcoming clinical chemotherapy resistance.
Piezo1-directed neutrophil extracellular traps regulate macrophage differentiation during influenza virus infection
Authors: Wang Yuexin , Yang Qiuli , Dong Yingjie , Wang Likun , Zhang Zhiyuan , Niu Ruiying , Wang Yufei , Bi Yujing , Liu Guangwei 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Neutrophils and macrophages are critical for antiviral immunity, but their reciprocal regulatory roles and mechanisms in the response to viral infection remain unclear. Herein, we found that the ion channel Piezo1 directs neutrophil extracellular trap (NET) formation and regulates macrophage functional differentiation in anti-influenza virus immunity. Genetic deletion of Piezo1 in neutrophils inhibited the generation of NETs and M1 macrophage differentiation while driving the development of M2 macrophages during viral infection. Piezo1-directed neutrophil NET DNA directly regulates macrophage differentiation in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, neutrophil Piezo1 deficiency inhibited NET DNA production, leading to decreased TLR9 and cGAS-STING signalling activity while inducing reciprocal differentiation from M1 to M2 macrophages. In addition, Piezo1 integrates magnesium signalling and the SIRT2-hypoxia-inducible factor-1 alpha (HIF1α)-dependent pathway to orchestrate reciprocal M1 and M2 macrophage lineage commitment through neutrophil-derived NET DNA. Our studies provide critical insight into the role of neutrophil-based mechanical regulation of immunopathology in directing macrophage lineage commitment during the response to influenza virus infection.
De novo design of protein minibinder agonists of TLR3
Authors: Adams Chloe S. , Kim Hyojin , Burtner Abigail E. , Lee Dong Sun , Dobbins Craig , Criswell Cameron , Coventry Brian , Tran-Pearson Adri , Kim Ho Min , King Neil P. 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Toll-like Receptor 3 (TLR3) is a pattern recognition receptor that initiates antiviral immune responses upon binding double-stranded RNA (dsRNA). Several nucleic acid-based TLR3 agonists have been explored clinically as vaccine adjuvants in cancer and infectious disease, but present substantial manufacturing and formulation challenges. Here, we use computational protein design to create novel miniproteins that bind to human TLR3 with nanomolar affinities. Cryo-EM structures of two minibinders in complex with TLR3 reveal that they bind the target as designed, although one partially unfolds due to steric competition with a nearby N-linked glycan. Multivalent forms of both minibinders induce NF-κB signaling in TLR3-expressing cell lines, demonstrating that they may have therapeutically relevant biological activity. Our work provides a foundation for the development of specific, stable, and easy-to-formulate protein-based agonists of TLRs and other pattern recognition receptors.