Background/Objectives: Lisfranc joint injuries are complex midfoot pathologies frequently associated with subtle radiologic findings and delayed diagnosis. Although ligamentous disruption is considered the primary mechanism, the contribution of intrinsic osseous morphology remains insufficiently investigated. Previous studies have primarily relied on two-dimensional measurements and limited morphometric parameters. Therefore, this study aimed to provide a comprehensive three-dimensional (3D) computed tomography (CT) based morphometric evaluation of the medial and central columns of the Lisfranc joint and to determine whether specific bony parameters are associated with injury predisposition. Methods: A total of 48 CT scans, including 23 from patients with Lisfranc joint injuries and 25 from healthy controls without midfoot trauma, were retrospectively analyzed. For both groups, 3D models of the first three metatarsals (M1–M3) and cuneiforms (C1–C3) were reconstructed to measure bone length, articular surface areas, volumes, M1–M2/M2–M3 depth differences, and dorsal step-off (dorsal subluxation of M2 relative to C2). Correlations of these measurements with M2 length were additionally assessed in each group. Results: Comparisons between injury and healthy control groups revealed no significant differences in bony morphometrics (p > 0.05). Correlation analysis showed that a longer M2 were associated with greater cuneiform volumes and larger metatarsal articular surface areas (p < 0.05). Conclusions: This comprehensive 3D morphometric assessment of the Lisfranc joint indicates that intrinsic bony anatomy alone is unlikely to represent a primary predisposing factor for Lisfranc injuries. The observed positive relationship between M2 length and cuneiform articular surface areas and volumes demonstrates structural interdependence within the medial and central columns. Overall, injury susceptibility does not appear to be explained by variations in osseous morphology alone.

This study aimed to describe the implementation of Pancasila values and attitudes in the development of Higher Order Thinking Skills (HOTS) and Lower Order Thinking Skills (LOTS) assessment items for elementary school students in Phase B. The research employed a descriptive qualitative approach using a library research method, drawing on various scientific sources such as journal articles, academic textbooks, and curriculum documents. The results indicated that LOTS focuses on basic thinking skills, including remembering, understanding, and applying (C1–C3), while HOTS involves higher-level thinking skills such as analyzing, evaluating, and creating (C4–C6). The integration of Pancasila values into the construction of HOTS and LOTS items contributes significantly to fostering students’ national, moral, and humanitarian character. In conclusion, the development of HOTS- and LOTS-based assessment instruments grounded in Pancasila values can assist teachers in creating meaningful, active, and character-oriented learning processes at the elementary school level.

ABSTRACT Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by persistent hyperglycemia, primarily due to imbalance in insulin secretion or action, resulting in inadequate carbohydrate and lipid metabolism. In this study, carbothioamide derivatives (C1–C3) were synthesized and assessed for their antidiabetic potential through α‐glucosidase inhibition in vitro and in vivo studies. The in vitro assay revealed good α‐glucosidase inhibition, with IC 50 values of 560, 101, and 330 (µg/mL) for C1 , C2 , and C3 , respectively, compared to standard acarbose (IC 50 = 36 µg/mL). Molecular docking, DFT calculations, in silico ADMET analyses, and Mulliken charge distribution supported promising binding interactions of the compounds with key residues of α‐glucosidase (PDB ID: 5ZCC), besides with acceptable drug‐likeness, high projected gastrointestinal absorption, and no blood–brain barrier permeation. Following confirmation of in vitro activity, the derivatives were evaluated for acute toxicity and in vivo antidiabetic efficacy in alloxan‐induced diabetic mice. None of the compounds revealed toxicity up to 200 mg/kg. Compounds C1–C3 , administered at 2.5 and 5 mg/kg, considerably ( p &lt; 0.001) reduced blood glucose levels without inducing hypoglycemia when matched compared with glibenclamide (0.5 mg/kg), and also improved body weight in diabetic mice. Among them, C2 exhibited the most promising antidiabetic activity across in vitro and in vivo models.

In the context of the energy transition and the increasing deployment of low-carbon gases (hydrogen, biomethane), reliable analytical monitoring is required to support integrity assessment and traceability of gas infrastructures under diverse on-site conditions while limiting analytical costs through standardized sampling and a single analytical system. We developed and validated integrated workflows combining sampling and laboratory analysis for chemical and compound-specific isotope analysis (CSIA) of natural gas and associated gaseous effluents in underground storage. An original quantification approach was implemented, linking sampling pressure to the amount of each compound collected in vials, and coupled with δ13C and δ2H measurements of alkanes (C1–C3), CO2 and H2. Two complementary sampling modes were optimized and compared: conventional high-pressure cylinders and direct collection into vacuum-sealed vials suitable for a broad range of pressures and field conditions. Using reference gas mixtures and operational samples, both approaches showed good reproducibility and isotopic accuracy during laboratory validation and over two years of monitoring. In particular, δ2H determinations for alkanes and H2 remained robust under low-pressure sampling typical of annular spaces (~1–2 bar), despite gas-composition fluctuations. These validated methodologies provide a flexible basis for routine, standardized monitoring of stored and circulating gases, including emerging low-carbon components.

Within the framework of the global low-carbon transition, the systemic pathways of green transformation in resource-dependent cities have become a more critical issue to understand. Using Datong as an example, this paper integrates the “Decision-Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory (DEMATEL)” and “Interpretive Structural Modeling (ISM)” to analyze the causal relationship and hierarchical order of fifteen major factors that affect urban transformation.” The findings indicate a three-level mechanism comprising of a root driving layer, an execution-transition layer, and an outcome layer. The core drivers of transformation are policy coherence and enforcement (A1), green investment intensity (B1), and industrial diversification with low-carbon upgrading (B2). The execution-transition layer (A2), monitoring and data capability (A3), just transition financing (B3), and enhancements in renewable energy penetration, end-use electrification, and green mobility infrastructure (C1–C3) are the links between strategic intent and actual outcomes. The outcome-oriented factors that reflect transformation performance are environmental quality improvement, ecological restoration, carbon-intensity reduction, employment resettlement, energy affordability, and public satisfaction (D1–D3, E1–E3). The paper offers a systematic analytical framework of the driving forces of sustainable transition in resource-based cities and presents policy-relevant implications of advancing the green development of Datong. Keywords: Green sustainable transformation; Resource-based cities; DEMATEL–ISM; Policy coherence and enforcement; Industrial diversification and low-carbon upgrading

As Nigeria advances toward the elimination of soil-transmitted helminthiasis (STH), updated endemicity maps are essential for guiding programmatic decisions. A cross-sectional study was conducted to update the STH endemicity maps in ten local government areas (LGAs) of Ondo State from July to August 2024. LGAs were stratified into three categories (C1–C3) based on the history of preventive chemotherapy (PC), with C1 being endemic LGAs with ≥5 effective rounds of PC, C2 being endemic LGAs with <5 effective rounds of PC, and C3 being low-endemicity (STH prevalence <20%; PC not required). A total of 4507 school-aged children (5–14 years) from 151 systematically selected communities (15 per LGA) provided fresh stool samples to assess the prevalence and intensity of STH. Stool samples were examined using the Kato-Katz technique. Prevalence of STH was aggregated at the LGA level and compared with World Health Organization thresholds. In the first category (C1), the baseline prevalence was reduced significantly by 60–96%, with specific prevalence in Akoko Southwest (from 28.2% to 0.4%, Risk Ratio (RR): 0.01), Akure North (from 39% to 1.5%, RR = 0.04), Ifedore (from 25% to 2.5%, RR = 0.10), and Ondo East (from 45.2% to 8.2%, RR = 0.18). In the second category (C2), the baseline was reduced significantly by 66–100%, with Akure South (from 29% to 1.2%, RR = 0.04), Ose (from 20% to 2.2%, RR = 0.11), Owo (~100% reduction), and Odigbo (38% to 12.8%, RR = 0.34). In the C3 LGAs, infection was significantly below the baseline threshold, with Akoko Northwest (5.2% to 0.9%, RR = 0.17) and Idanre (from 14.2% to 1.8%, RR = 0.13). Overall, significant reductions in STH prevalence were observed across the surveyed LGAs, with risk ratios ranging from 0.04 to 0.40. These findings updated the endemicity map for the ten LGAs in Ondo State, demonstrating significant progress toward STH elimination following PC implementation.

Atlantoaxial instability (AAI) in toy- and small-breed dogs remains a significant clinical challenge, as the restricted anatomical space and risk of complications complicate the selection of implants. This study aimed to compare three patient-specific Ti-6Al-4V stabilizers for the C1–C2 region: a clinically used ventral C1–C3 plate, a shortened ventral C1–C2 plate, and a dorsal C1–C2 implant. Computed tomography, segmentation, virtual reduction, CAD/CAM design, and finite element analysis were employed to evaluate the linear-static mechanical behavior of each construct under loading ranging from 5 to 25 N, with a focus on displacements, von Mises stresses, and peri-screw bone strains. Additionally, cadaver procedures were performed in nine small-breed dogs using custom drill guides and additively manufactured implants to evaluate procedural feasibility and implantation time. Finite element models demonstrated that all stabilizers operated within material and biological safety limits. The C1–C3 plate exhibited the highest implant stresses, while the C1–C2 plate demonstrated an intermediate response, and the dorsal implant minimized implant stresses, albeit by increasing bone stresses. Cadaver experiments revealed that dorsal fixation required less implantation time than ventral fixation. Collectively, the findings indicate that all evaluated constructs represent safe stabilization options, and the choice of implant should reflect the preferred load-transfer pathway as well as anatomical or surgical constraints that may limit ventral access.

In this study, novel 1,3-oxazepine-4,7-dione derivatives (C1–C3) were synthesized through the cycloaddition of maleic anhydride with bisazoimine precursors. Structural elucidation was achieved using FTIR, ¹H-NMR, and ¹³C-NMR spectroscopy. The derivatives demonstrated multifunctional performance in biological and corrosion studies. Compound C1 exhibited potent antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus (45 mm) and Bacillus subtilis (36 mm), while C2 was highly effective against Pseudomonas aeruginosa (49 mm) and Escherichia coli (36 mm). Cytotoxicity assays revealed that C3 reduced PC3 prostate cancer cell viability to 10.35% after 24 h and 3.48% after 48 h, with an IC₅₀ value of 42.08 µg/mL. Corrosion inhibition tests in 1 M H₂SO₄ indicated maximum efficiencies of 63.28% (C1) and 62.92% (C2). Adsorption studies confirmed spontaneous adsorption with ΔG°ads values of − 36.08 and − 34.90 kJ mol⁻¹, respectively. These findings highlight the novelty of oxazepine derivatives as dual-function agents with promising biomedical and industrial applications.

Abstract Background Perianal fistulising Crohn’s disease (pCD) affects 20-50% of Crohn’s disease (CD) patients with ∼90% requiring a surgical procedure at least once. The recently proposed TopClass framework provides a pragmatic clinical classification of pCD1. Class 2a denotes patients suitable for repair through medical-surgical management, whereas classes 2b or higher denotes stages where symptom control rather than repair becomes the primary treatment goal. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying these clinical subtypes remain poorly defined. Methods Paired biopsies from two sites - the fistula tract and rectal orifice of 54 unique patients (n = 44 CD, n = 10 Cryptoglandular fistula (CPTGL)), supplemented by longitudinal samples to have a total of 81 profiles (70 CD and 11 CPTGL) - underwent bulk RNA sequencing to generate site paired transcriptomic datasets. Multi-Omics Factor Analysis (MOFA) was applied, followed by hierarchical clustering and weighed gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) to characterise patient subgroups. Results Integration and unsupervised clustering of paired fistula and rectal transcriptomes identified three molecular patient subgroups (C1–C3), independent of concomitant proctitis or diagnosis (p &amp;gt; 0.05, Fig 1A-C). Molecular characterization of the gene programs revealed distinct epithelial remodelling patterns specific to each patient subgroup. C1 and C2 were both driven by epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in the fistula but differed in rectal programs where C1 displayed homeostatic glycosylation patterns and C2 exhibited keratinization. However, C3 showed a uniquely different molecular profile in the fistula with strong keratinization signature (Fig 1D) instead of EMT. Notably, C3 patients were significantly enriched for TopClass 2a, indicating suitability for surgical repair (Fig 2A) (p &amp;lt; 0.05). Among patients with recent MR imaging available (n = 10: 2a; n = 13: 2b), we observed that the C2 subgroup exhibited higher MAGNIFI-CD2 inflammatory mass sub-score (p &amp;lt; 0.05), suggesting a more aggressive disease phenotype (Fig 2B). Consistent with this, of all the TopClass 2a patients, those belonging to C2 molecular subgroup had a significantly increased risk of requiring ileostomy (p &amp;lt; 0.05, Fig 2C). Conclusion This study demonstrates a clinically meaningful molecular stratification of pCD by assigning distinct epithelial remodelling signatures—independent of proctitis—to three patient classes. These classes exhibit clear clinical distinctions, separating repair-amenable presentations from more aggressive disease associated with higher inflammatory burden and progression to ileostomy within TopClass 2a.

BackgroundGlioblastoma (GBM) is the most aggressive primary brain tumor, characterized by limited therapeutic options and dismal prognosis. Among the components of the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME), M2-polarized macrophages are pivotal mediators of tumor progression, yet the molecular mechanisms underlying their polarization and pro-tumoral functions remain inadequately understood.MethodsWe integrated bulk and single-cell RNA sequencing datasets from CGGA, TCGA, and GSE131928. M2 macrophage infiltration was quantified using the xCell algorithm, and unsupervised clustering of M2-associated genes was first performed to define macrophage-centered immune subtypes, further refined by XGBoost and LASSO modeling. Based on the molecular features of the most immunosuppressive subtype, a macrophage-associated risk score based on CTSB, LITAF, and DOK3 was constructed and validated across independent cohorts for prognostic and immune relevance. Functional validation was performed by silencing DOK3 in THP-1–derived macrophages, followed by co-culture with glioma cells to assess macrophage polarization and tumor cell behavior.ResultsElevated M2 macrophage infiltration correlated with reduced tumor purity, spatial heterogeneity, and worse survival. Three immune subtypes (C1–C3) were identified; notably, the C1 subtype exhibited the highest M2 infiltration, strongest immunosuppressive features, and poorest prognosis. The derived macrophage-based risk score robustly stratified patient survival and correlated with CD163 expression and immune checkpoint activation. Single-cell analysis revealed predominant DOK3 expression in macrophages and microglia. Functional assays demonstrated that DOK3 knockdown reduced CD163 expression and attenuated glioma cell invasiveness, supporting its role in promoting M2 polarization and tumor aggressiveness.ConclusionThis integrative analysis identifies DOK3 as a pivotal regulator of M2 macrophage polarization and a driver of glioblastoma progression. Together, immune subtyping and the simplified macrophage-based risk model represent complementary strategies, with the latter providing a practical tool for prognostic stratification. Targeting DOK3 offers a promising therapeutic strategy to reprogram the TME and improve clinical outcomes in patients with GBM.

γ-Bromocrotonates and their derived allyl sulfonium salts serve as versatile synthons because they incorporate both an electron-withdrawing leaving group (bromine atom or sulfonium salt group) and a Michael acceptor (α,β-unsaturated ester group). This combination allows for the generation of various intermediates, leading to a wide range of subsequent transformations. Consequently, these synthons have garnered considerable attention, prompting the development of diverse methodologies and strategies for efficiently constructing functionalized organic molecules. In this review, we systematically summarize and elaborate on recent advances in diverse reactions of such versatile synthons. The discussed reactions are categorized according to γ-bromocrotonates and their derived allyl sulfonium salts acting as C1 synthons, C2 synthons, and C3 synthons, respectively, and provide detailed mechanistic insights. Additionally, this review highlights current challenges and future prospects for research in this field.

HighlightsWhat are the main findings?Thermal [2+2] cycloaddition reactions of perfluorobicyclo[2.2.0]hex-1(4)-ene with ethylene, benzene, and styrene have been researched.Thermal [2+2] cycloaddition reactions of bicyclo[2.2.0]hex-1(4)-ene with ethylene, benzene, and styrene have been analyzed.Thermal [2+2] cycloadditions proceed through a stepwise mechanism.What is the implication of the main finding?RIAE analysis shows that the non-polar transition states are electronically destabilized.RIAE analysis shows that the polar transition states cause a strong electronic stabilization.The presence of the eight fluorines notably increases the electrophilic character of the bicyclo[2.2.0]hex-1(4)-ene.ELF analysis of TSs indicates that forming of the first bond has begun, while the forming of the second bond has not begun.The analysis of the geometrical parameters of the TS structures and intermediates portrays a great similarity between them.Thermal [2+2] cycloaddition (22CA) reactions of perfluorobicyclo[2.2.0]hex-1(4)-ene (PFBHE) and bicyclo[2.2.0]hex-1(4)-ene (BHE) with ethylene, benzene and styrene were investigated through the Molecular Electron Density Theory (MEDT) at the UM06-2X/6-311G(d,p) level in benzene. Scrutiny of the DFT-based reactivity indices indicates that the presence of the eight fluorines in PFBHE notably expands the electrophilic nature of this species, participating in polar reactions. These 22CAs proceed through a stepwise mechanism, while the non-polar 22CA reaction of BHE with ethylene requires high energy around 26.6 kcal·mol−1, the polar 22CA reaction of PFBHE with styrene requires a low activation energy of 13.2 kcal·mol−1. The polar 22CA reaction of PFBHE with benzene presents the highest activation energy, 28.3 kcal·mol−1, because of the loss of its aromatic character. Scrutiny of the electron localization function (ELF) at the TSs associated with the first step points that the creation of the C1–C3 bond set about, while that at the TSs associated with the ring-closure means that the creation of the C2–C4 bond has not started yet. At the end, a Relative Interacting Atomic Energy (RIAE) study of these thermal 22CA processes shows that while at the non-polar TS1a-I both interacting frameworks are electronically destabilized, at the polar TS1a-IV, the hefty global electron density transfer (GEDT) goes ahead towards PFBHE, causing a strong electronic stabilization of this framework, markedly reducing the RIAE activation energy.

This study assesses the cost and returns of Isabgol (Plantago ovata) and Chandrasur (Lepidium sativum). For the present study Ratlam, Mandsaur and Neemuch districts in Malwa Plateau region of Madhya Pradesh were selected on the basis of maximum area covered by the Isabgol (Plantago ovata) crop. From the selected districts two blocks were selected from each district for the study. Five villages from each block were selected on the basis of highest area covered by selected Medicinal and Aromatic crops. Thus, the sample consisted of 90 farmers of Isabgol (Plantago ovata) and Chandrasur (Lepidium sativum) crops. The primary data were collected through personal interview using a pre-tested questionnaire. For estimation cost and returns, cost concepts i.e. cost A1, A2, B1, B2, C1, C and C3 and net family labour and farm business incomes and B.C. ratio were analysed in this study. For clarity, Cost A1 refers to paid-out operational costs; A2 includes A1 plus rent for leased-in land; B1 includes A2 plus interest on fixed capital; B2 incorporates rental value of owned land; and C1–C3 include imputed family labour and managerial cost. Social categories of respondents are denoted as SC (Scheduled Caste), ST (Scheduled Tribe), OBC (Other Backward Class) and General category. The study showed that average family size of sample farmers was found five. As per caste wise distribution of sample respondents, majority of respondents belong to OBC category (82 percent) followed by general (9 percent), SC (7 percent) and ST (2 percent). Regarding the age and educational level it was found that more number of sample farmers belongs to the middle age group (51 percent), followed by old age (29) and young age group (20 percent) of sample farmers. It was observed that 56 percent sample farmers were educated up to primary level followed by higher secondary school (31 percent) and under graduation (13 percent) level. The cost of cultivation was estimated to be Rs. 49514 and 43504.41 for Isabgol (Plantago ovata) and Chandrasur (Lepidium sativum) crops. The study concluded that Isabgol (Plantago ovata) cultivation is economically viable and profitable, with a B.C. ratio of 1:1.91 &amp; 1:1.95 and a net income of Rs. 45,313 and 41569.59 per hectare. Hence, expanding its cultivation area within the existing cropping pattern can significantly enhance the income and livelihood of farmers in the Malwa Plateau region. It is recommended to promote Isabgol (Plantago ovata) and Chandrasur (Lepidium sativum) cultivation through awareness programs, training, and input support. Government and extension agencies should provide technical guidance, improved seeds, and market linkages. Expanding Isabgol (Plantago ovata) and Chandrasur (Lepidium sativum) in suitable areas can enhance farmers’ income, ensure better resource utilization, and contribute to sustainable agricultural development in the Malwa Plateau region.

Grassroots community governance has gained increasing attention for its vital role in resource integration and multi-actor collaboration. As an innovative governance model, the “Five-Sector Linkage” (FSL) mechanism enhances service efficiency by aligning the efforts of communities, social organizations, social workers, volunteers, and philanthropic actors. However, quantitative research on interaction dynamics within such mechanisms remains insufficient, particularly regarding the optimization of collaborative networks for improved governance outcomes. This study applies Social Network Analysis (SNA) to the “After-School Program” project in Community B, Chengdu, to examine the structural features and interrelations of multi-actor cooperation under the FSL framework. The collaboration network consists of 39 nodes and 1482 links, with a density of 0.370 and an average path length of 1.632, indicating efficient communication and moderate cohesion. Degree and betweenness centrality analyses identify social workers (C1–C3) as key hubs, with C2 holding the highest bridging role (B_C = 81.401). The overall network shows low centralization (4.19%) and limited heterogeneity (2.74%), reflecting a polycentric and resilient structure. Inter-sectoral analysis showed that all nodes interacted with at least one social worker, while community actors (A1, A2) engaged broadly across 18 nodes. Volunteers maintained extensive grassroots connections, while philanthropic resources formed selective but strategic links with 13 nodes. These findings provide empirical insights into the coordination logic of the FSL mechanism and offer guidance for building adaptive, decentralized community governance networks. Future research should explore longitudinal dynamics and cross-community comparisons to further enhance the applicability of the model.

Introduction . The use of various venotonic drugs is an integral part of the comprehensive treatment of patients with chronic venous diseases (CVD). Aim . To evaluate the clinical efficacy of a new domestic biologically active supplement (BAS) consisting of the flavonoid hesperidin methyl chalcone (HMC), troxerutin (HER) and ascorbic acid (VitC) in the complex treatment of patients with CVD of clinical classes C1–C3 (according to CEAP). Materials and methods . The open, comparative multicenter, prospective study included 281 patients with CVD (varicose veins) of clinical classes C1–C3 (according to CEAR). The first (studied) group of patients included 158 people who received Russian biologically active supplement (HMC + HER + VitC) for two months. The second (control) group consisted of 123 patients who did not receive biologically active supplement. In order to study the effectiveness of BAS sequentially during three patient visits, a statistical analysis of changes in quality of life according to the CIVIQ-2 questionnaire, pain intensity using a visual analog scale (VAS) and the dynamics of changes in malleolar volume (MV) on the target limb under study was performed. Results . The results of the conducted studies have shown that the inclusion of a new Russian biologically active supplement (HMC + HER +VitC) in the complex treatment of patients with CVD significantly reduces symptoms and improves the quality of life of patients. The maximum effectiveness of Russian biologically active supplement (HMC + HER + VitC) is manifested after 2 months of use in standard dosages without any side effects. The main advantage of the new biologically active supplement is its complete solubility in water and, as a result, higher bioavailability. Conclusions . The results of the conducted studies have shown that the inclusion of a new Russian biologically active supplement supplement (HMC + HER + VitC) in the complex treatment of patients with CVD significantly reduces symptoms and improves the quality oflife of patients.

Electrochemical CO₂ reduction on Cu catalysts at near-ambient conditions produces a variety of C₁–C₃ products, yet pathways to higher-order molecules remain poorly understood. Using real-time capillary Differential Electrochemical Mass Spectrometry (DEMS), we determined kinetic onset potentials for a broad range of CO₂ reduction products, including rarely reported species such as propionaldehyde, propylene, and, for the first time, acetylene (C₂H₂). We investigated acetylene formation and its subsequent electro-reduction (C₂H₂RR), revealing electrodimerization to 1,3-butadiene via a 2e⁻ pathway. Furthermore, DEMS detected a potential-dependent, electroless Cu-catalyzed [2 + 2 + 2] cycloaddition under ambient conditions, yielding benzene (C₆). These results demonstrate that DEMS can resolve transient intermediates and map valorization pathways from CO₂ to C₂, C₄, and C₆ products, offering new mechanistic insights into alkyne chemistry on Cu. We propose a future process concept to convert CO₂ into sustainable aromatic e-chemicals through targeted intermediate valorization.

Soft actuators are widely explored as movers in various devices, human–machine interfaces, for medical purposes and other biomedical applications. Among them are soft actuators based on a foamed silicone matrix with the working liquid (WL) captured in its pores that undergo the liquid–gas phase transition. For the first time, to gain the actuation strain of such composites, we added, to the WL, a substance that sublimates during the composite actuation. C1–C3 alcohols were tested as WLs, while the sublimation substance (SS) used was benzoic acid dissolved in the WL. It was found that the rejuvenation procedure is able to fill the composite pores with WL + SS solution. The effect of benzoic acid addition was revealed using the two-stage heating mode. The sublimation substance effectively extends the composite strain for methanol and ethanol as WL for about 20%. For C3 propanols, the strain is left nearly unchanged. In the open-air conditions, the high diffusion of WL + SS in silicone allows only a single actuation that makes it a disposable actuator, i.e., a kind of safety switch is proposed. The results obtained in this work pave the way to future, powerful multipurpose “soft safeties” appliances.

BackgroundHepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) faces challenges in early diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment stratification due to molecular heterogeneity. This study aimed to establish a plasma exosomal long non-coding RNA (lncRNA)-based framework for molecular classification, prognostication, and therapeutic guidance in HCC.MethodsThe transcriptomic data from 230 plasma exosomes and 831 HCC tissues were integrated. A competitive endogenous RNA (ceRNA) network was constructed via the miRcode, miRTarBase, TargetScan, and miRDB databases to define exosome-related genes (ERGs). Unsupervised consensus clustering was used to stratify HCC patients on the basis of ERG profiles. Prognostic models were developed and optimized via 10 machine learning algorithms with 10-fold cross-validation. Treatment responses were predicted via the SubMap, TIDE, and oncoPredict algorithms. RT-qPCR experiments were conducted to validate the expression of model genes.ResultsWe identified 22 dysregulated plasma exosomal lncRNAs in HCC. The upregulated lncRNAs formed a ceRNA network regulating 61 ERGs and were significantly enriched in cell cycle regulation, TGF-β signaling, the p53 pathway, and ferroptosis. ERG expression stratified HCC into three subtypes (C1–C3). The C3 subtype exhibited the poorest overall survival, advanced grade and stage, an immunosuppressive microenvironment (increased Treg infiltration, elevated PD-L1/CTLA4 expression, highest TIDE score), and hyperactivation of proliferation (MYC, E2F targets) and metabolic pathways (glycolysis, mTORC1). A random survival forest-derived 6-gene risk score (G6PD, KIF20A, NDRG1, ADH1C, RECQL4, MCM4) demonstrated high prognostic accuracy. High-risk patients presented increased TP53/TTN mutations and increased tumor mutational burdens. Risk model analysis predicted differential treatment responses: low-risk patients exhibited superior anti-PD-1 immunotherapy responses, whereas high-risk patients showed increased sensitivity to DNA-damaging agents (e.g., the Wee1 inhibitor MK-1775) and sorafenib. Experimental validation confirmed consistent dysregulation of the six-gene signature (G6PD, KIF20A, NDRG1, ADH1C, RECQL4, MCM4) in HCC cell lines, reinforcing the model’s biological relevance.ConclusionPlasma exosomal lncRNAs enable robust molecular subtyping, accurate prognostic stratification, and treatment response prediction in HCC. The ERG-centric classification system and validated 6-gene risk model provide clinically actionable tools for precision oncology.

BackgroundCervical neural tension reflects the biomechanical and physiological responses of spinal nerves to positional changes. Although clinical tests exist for the lower cervical spinal nerve, tension patterns in the upper and mid-cervical nerves remain underexplored, limiting the diagnostic accuracy for conditions such as occipital neuralgia.MethodsThis cadaveric study quantified tensile load changes at the cervical spinal nerve level (C1–C5) during passive cervical spine rotation in five formalin-embalmed cadavers. Tension was measured on the cervical spinal nerves (C1–C5) using force gauges attached proximal to the division between the dorsal and ventral rami. C1 measurements were obtained from a single specimen. Two movement conditions were used: cervical flexion-rotation for C1–C3 and neutral-plane rotation for C4–C5.ResultsIpsilateral increases in neural tension were observed in C1–C3 during flexion-rotation movements. By contrast, C4–C5 exhibited a consistent pattern of contralateral load increase during rotation in the neutral plane. Statistically significant variations in the tensile load were observed at the C5 level under different rotation conditions, specifically at C5 left (p = 0.003) and C5 right (p = 0.006). Post-hoc analyses of C5 measurements during neutral-plane rotation revealed significant differences between right and left rotation (p = 0.018) and between left rotation and neutral rotation (p = 0.018) on the left side, as well as between right rotation and left rotation and neutral rotation (p = 0.026, p = 0.024) on the right side. Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC) indicated good-to-excellent reliability (ICC > 0.75), particularly at C2–C5.ConclusionsCervical rotation influenced neural tension, with distinct patterns observed between the upper cervical segments (tested under flexion-rotation) and the middle cervical segments (tested under neutral plane rotation). These exploratory findings suggest that replacing lateral neck flexion with rotation in the upper-limb tension test may represent a promising direction for future research. Additionally, the flexion-rotation test may provide a basis for clinical validation as a potential indicator of greater occipital nerve tension. These results lay the groundwork for refining neurodynamic assessments and warrant further in vivo investigation.

The integration of Higher Order Thinking Skills (HOTS) in assessment is crucial to achieving the 2013 Curriculum’s goal of fostering students’ critical, analytical, and evaluative competencies. However, in Islamic Religious Education, assessments often remain dominated by Lower Order Thinking Skills (LOTS), creating a gap between curricular aspirations and actual practice. This study aimed to analyze the cognitive levels of 124 test items in the Grade X Al-Qur’an Hadis textbook published by the Indonesian Ministry of Religious Affairs (2020), focusing on the distribution of HOTS and LOTS questions. Employing a qualitative descriptive design, document analysis was conducted using Bloom’s revised taxonomy to classify each item into C1–C6 cognitive levels. The findings revealed that 88.7% of items fell under LOTS (C1–C3), while only 11.3% met HOTS criteria (C4–C5), with no items at the C6 level. These results indicate that the textbook’s assessments largely measure basic knowledge and comprehension, limiting opportunities for higher-order cognitive engagement. The study implies an urgent need to reform question construction strategies in religious education materials to better align with curriculum goals, enhance critical and creative thinking, and support students’ readiness for complex problem-solving in contemporary contexts.