bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
From sporulation to village differentiation: the shaping of the social microbiome over rural-to-urban lifestyle transition in Indonesia
Authors: Febinia Clarissa A. , Luqman Hirzi , Kusuma Pradiptajati , Priliani Lidwina , Lewis Joseph , Wihandani Desak Made , Pinatih Gde Ngurah Indraguna , Sudoyo Herawati , Almeida Alexandre , Malik Safarina G. , Jacobs Guy S.
Published: February 2025

Despite established roles in human health and profound global diversity, existing gut microbiome datasets are biased toward Western urban cohorts, with especial under-representation of Southeast Asia. Here, we present a novel gut microbiome dataset from 116 Indonesian individuals representing a diverse cline from transitional hunter-gatherers to rural agricultural to urban lifestyles. We identify 1,304 species and 3,258 subspecies by assembling 11,070 metagenome-assembled genomes, revealing substantial species (15%) and subspecies-level (50%) novelty. Novel taxa are rare, often village-specific, and depleted for sporulation genes, revealing a direct link between bacterial physiology, transmission, prevalence and discovery. We reveal reduced microbial diversity associated with rural-to-urban transition, and also multi-layered patterns across taxonomic levels, including opposing trends within genera. Furthermore, community membership, over diet, is often a stronger predictor of microbiome composition. Our work highlights the interplay of host behaviour, population structure and bacterial physiology in shaping microbiome diversity and biogeography, at the key scale of human communities
Small-
x
evolution of the dipole amplitude in momentum space: Forward-off-forward correspondence
Authors: Agrawal Sanskriti , Abir Raktim
Published: February 2025

We have shown that the small-x evolution of the leading-log dipole scattering amplitudes, both pomeron and odderon, in the momentum space can be completely determined by the evolution of the respective amplitudes, with rescaled momenta. In position space, if there is translation symmetry (assumption of a large nucleus), the dipole cross section depends on the positions of quarks and antiquarks only through their separation. The present study is an equivalent proposition in the momentum space—where translation symmetry in momentum bifurcates the amplitudes into two translationally symmetric functions along the k line in the k−Δ plane. It also shows that high energy evolutions of dipole generalized transverse momentum-dependent distributions can be achieved only by studying the evolution of dipole transverse momentum-dependent distributions at small-x.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Complex-valued physics-informed machine learning for efficient solving of quintic nonlinear Schrödinger equations
Authors: Zhang Lei , Du Mengge , Bai Xiaodong , Chen Yuntian , Zhang Dongxiao
Published: February 2025

The Gross-Pitaevskii equation (GPE), a specialized form of the nonlinear Schrödinger equation (NLSE), plays a pivotal role in quantum mechanics, optics, and condensed matter physics, modeling phenomena such as superfluidity, quantum turbulence, and solitons, while serving as a cornerstone for advancing the study of nonlinear wave propagation and its technological applications. In this paper, we propose a solver, Complex-Valued Physics Informed Neural Network (CV-PINN) for NLSEs using physics-informed learning machines with complex representation. This method integrates complex values and algebraic properties directly into the neural network, with its structure mirroring the computation process of complex numbers, thereby significantly enhancing its ability to effectively solve complex problems. Additionally, we introduce a collocation-point sampling method called Predictive Dynamic Monitoring Sampling (PDM sampling), which adaptively adjusts the distribution of collocation points during training based on the model's historical performance. We conducted extensive empirical evaluations of the CV-PINN and the PDM sampling using a series of NLSE/GPEs (a total of 16 solved examples). Compared to the traditional real-valued PINN, the CV-PINN demonstrated higher accuracy, faster convergence, greater robustness, and better stability in these cases. Moreover, the PDM sampling proved to be effective in preventing model degradation and significantly enhancing the model's convergence speed and predictive accuracy when compared to traditional sampling methods. This advancement provides an approach and perspective for solving complex partial differential equations, thereby offering insights for the broader application of PINNs across various fields.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Analytical evaluation of nearly singular integrals in the heat conduction boundary integral equations with heat source
Authors: Li Tengyue , Cheng Changzheng , Wang Feiyang , Hu Zongjun , Li Jingchuan
Published: February 2025

Purpose

There are domain integrals in the integral equations for analyzing the heat conduction with a heat source.

Design/methodology/approach

In order to highlight the advantages of the boundary element method, the dual reciprocity method is introduced to transform the domain integral into the boundary integral through the special interpolation function. When the internal points near the boundary are selected as the nodes for constructing the approximating functions in the dual reciprocity method, the nearly singular integrals will occur in calculating the physical quantities of these internal points. The nearly singular integrals cannot be effectively evaluated by the Gaussian numerical integration, which will reduce the calculation accuracy of the temperature and heat flux at the internal points near the boundary. Herein, a set of analytical formulas is proposed to evaluate the nearly singular integrals in the boundary integral equations for the heat conduction problem with a heat source.

Findings

Thus, the accurate temperature and heat flux at the internal points closer to the boundary can be evaluated by comparing with the conventional boundary element method. The characteristic of the “boundary only” of the boundary element method is maintained for analyzing the temperature field in the heat conduction problem with a heat source.

Originality/value

The boundary-domain integral equation for the heat conduction problem with a heat source is transformed into the boundary integral equation by the dual reciprocity method. Then, the analytical algorithm is introduced to evaluate the nearly singular integral in the heat conduction boundary integral equations with a heat source. The present method retains the “boundary only” characteristic of the boundary element method and effectively evaluates the nearly singular integrals when the internal point is close to the boundary.
Effect of surface roughness on the gear performance based on the mixed-THEL model
Authors: Gu Chunxing , Sheng Xiaoli , Zhang Di
Published: February 2025

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate the gear performance during meshing. The effects of line load, velocity and rough surfaces (kurtosis and skewness) on the lubrication characteristics and fatigue life of gears were analyzed.

Design/methodology/approach

In the mixed thermoelastohydrodynamic lubrication (TEHL) model, the distributions of pressure and film thickness are predicted using the Reynolds equation. The elastic–plastic rough contact model is used to calculate the contact force and area. To predict the fatigue life of the gears, the Dang–Van fatigue model is used to obtain the fatigue parameters under different line loads, velocities and rough surfaces.

Findings

The skewness of rough surfaces has a more significant effect on gear performance. In addition, according to fatigue parameters, it is found that when the load is too large, it leads to an increase in the probability of gear failure.

Originality/value

In this paper, a mixed TEHL model considering the effects of kurtosis and skewness is developed for the line contact to predict the mixed lubrication problem during gear meshing.

Peer review

The peer review history for this article is available at: https://publons.com/publon/10.1108/ILT-09-2024-0356/
Extrusion bioprinting device for planar and non-planar mammalian cells and bacterial scaffolds prototyping
Authors: Aragón-Lozano Daniel , Flores-Jimenez Mariana S. , Garcia-Gonzalez Alejandro , Perfecto-Avalos Yocanxóchitl , Rho-Mas Fabian , García-Gamboa Ricardo , Fuentes-Aguilar Rita Q. , Chairez Isaac
Published: February 2025

Purpose

This study aims to develop and validate an integrated extrusion bioprinting system that produces planar and non-planar scaffolds with embedded living material (bacteria or mammalian cells), overcoming the limitation of traditional extrusion bioprinting, where the material is deposited and cultured in planar layers.

Design/methodology/approach

The bioprinting device was constructed by modifying a fused deposition modelling 3D printer, adapting the extrusion holder for hydrogel-bioinks, going from an 8-bit architecture to a 32-bit one andad hoc updating the firmware, increasing the processing capacity and enabling accurate deposition of material. The device performance was assessed in hydrogel 3D planar and non-planar extrusion, considering different radius of curvature to form porous scaffolds, evaluating their ability to retain the designed curved geometry and the cell viability maintaining in bacterial and mammalian cells bioinks.

Findings

The viability (up to 99%) and growth of bacteria and mammalian cells embedded in the scaffolds was confirmed by confocal microscopy. The suggested bioprinting platform and procedure integrates an efficient strategy for producing hydrogel-based scaffolds, obtaining 98% resolution in planar deposition. For non-planar scaffolds, it was found that they are capable of maintaining the designed curvature even after being removed from the support, with an 88% of resolution.

Originality/value

It is reported a novel and advanced 3D extrusion bioprinting strategy for producing curved and complex scaffolds, preserving resolution and sterile conditions, introducing in addition a methodology for direct design and generation of a g-code with continuous and smooth paths, pioneering on the 3D bioprinting of bacterial bioinks.
Effects of Noise and Reward on Pupil Size and Electroencephalographic Speech Tracking in a Word‐Detection Task
Authors: Iotzov Ivan , Parra Lucas C.
Published: February 2025

Speech is hard to understand when there is background noise. Speech intelligibility and listening effort both affect our ability to understand speech, but the relative contribution of these factors is hard to disentangle. Previous studies suggest that speech intelligibility could be assessed with EEG speech tracking and listening effort via pupil size. However, these measures may be confounded, because poor intelligibility may require a larger effort. To address this, we developed a novel word‐detection paradigm that allows for a rapid behavioural assessment of speech processing. In this paradigm, words appear on the screen during continuous speech, similar to closed captioning. In two listening experiments with a total of 51 participants, we manipulated intelligibility by changing signal‐to‐noise ratios (SNRs) and modulated effort by varying monetary reward. Increasing SNR improved detection performance along with EEG speech tracking. Additionally, we find that pupil size increases with increased SNR. Surprisingly, when we modulated both reward and SNR, we found that reward modulated only pupil size, whereas SNR modulated only EEG speech tracking. We interpret this as the effects of arousal and listening effort on pupil size and of intelligibility on EEG speech tracking. The experimental paradigm developed here may be beneficial when assessing hearing devices in terms of speech intelligibility and listening effort.
Tonic Electrical Stimulation of the Locus Coeruleus Enhances Cortical Sensory‐Evoked Responses via Noradrenaline α1 and β Receptors
Authors: Suzuki Takanobu , Nagasaka Kazuaki , Otsuki Tomofumi , Otsuru Naofumi , Onishi Hideaki
Published: February 2025

The locus coeruleus (LC) neurons send extensive projections to the somatosensory cortex and release noradrenaline (NA) at synaptic terminals, which is thought to regulate the activation of sensory‐related cells by acting on three types of receptors (α1, α2 and β). Although previous studies have examined the effects of LC stimulation on single‐unit sensory neurons, their impact on somatosensory evoked potentials (SEPs) and their temporal variations, as well as the specific roles of NA receptors, remain unclear. Herein, we investigated how SEPs are modulated by tonic LC stimulation at physiological frequencies (0.1, 1 and 4 Hz) and identified the receptors involved in these changes. Forepaw stimulation‐induced amplitudes in SEP were enhanced in response to 1 Hz stimulation of the LC but not in response to 0.1 and 4 Hz stimulation. Interestingly, the enhancement of SEPs after LC stimulation persisted for tens of minutes following the cessation of stimulation. Optical imaging using a voltage‐sensitive dye showed an increase in the depolarizing response in the somatosensory cortex after 1 Hz stimulation. Prazosin (α1 receptor antagonist) and propranolol (β receptor antagonist) inhibited SEP enhancement following 1 Hz LC stimulation, whereas yohimbine (α2 receptor antagonist) had no effect. This suggests that the enhancement in SEP observed is primarily mediated by the activation of cortical excitatory α1 and β receptors. These findings provide insight into the impact of the NA system on sensory information processing and the pathophysiology of sensory disorders related to the disruption of the NA system.
Exploring Care Home Workers' Perceptions of Implementing ECHO: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Beattie Michelle , Muirhead Kevin , Carey Nicola
Published: February 2025

Background

To ensure older people living in care homes receive optimal care, care home workers (CHWs) require access to specialist support and education. Extension for Community Healthcare Outcomes (ECHO) uses existing videoconferencing to connect CHWs to specialists using case‐based learning. There is evidence in other settings to suggest that ECHO can improve practitioner knowledge and patient outcomes. There is a dearth of evidence regarding strategies for effective implementation of ECHO with CHWs.

Aim

To establish the experiences of ECHO, and the barriers and enablers to implementation, from the perspective of CHWs in Scotland.

Methods

Qualitative online focus groups (n = 4) with CHWs (n = 13) who had participated in at least one care home ECHO session and with facilitators/presenters (n = 6). Transcripts were thematically analysed.

Findings

Findings were grouped into three areas: perceived impact, inhibitors and enablers. CHWs reported the positive impact of ECHO including key benefits to enhance residents' care, satisfaction with the sessions and feeling valued. Inhibitors included limited digital skills, workforce challenges and the pitch and duration of ECHO sessions. Enablers included administrative and technical support, scheduling and the structure of the ECHO approach.

Conclusions

ECHO allows CHWs to access specialist support, enabling learning and development, with the potential to improve residents' care. Benefits to residents' care included CHWs' enhanced understanding of choices around death and dying, and insights and understanding of causation of challenging behaviours in older people and how to manage these. Adaptations to ECHO to suit a care home context are recommended.

Implications for Practice

CHWs require technical support to build competence and confidence in IT skills. This study highlights the potential for ECHO to support CHWs to access specialist support and learning for older adults in a care home context.
Comparison of dermal and eschar fibroblasts in full skin equivalents
Authors: Kutluoğlu Gizem Coşar , Vlig Marcel , Elgersma Anouk , Boekema Bouke K. H. L. , Daamen Willeke F. , Doberenz Claudia , Manikowski Dominique
Published: February 2025

Full‐thickness burn wounds pose significant problems, demanding specialised therapies to avoid complications and promote recovery. Eschar tissue, which forms in response to severe burns, contains viable fibroblasts, which migrate from the surrounding tissue in response to burn injury and exhibit a myofibroblast phenotype. The goal of this study was to characterise eschar‐derived fibroblasts and examine their use for engineered in vitro full skin equivalents in comparison to normal dermal fibroblasts, which were harvested from non‐injured skin. Microarray analysis indicated that eschar fibroblasts differ from dermal fibroblasts in various biological processes including inflammation, extracellular matrix formation, cell migration and differentiation. Skin equivalents with eschar fibroblasts showed similarities to those generated using normal dermal fibroblasts in terms of epidermis and dermis formation. However, in contrast to dermal fibroblast‐based full skin equivalents, eschar fibroblast‐based equivalents exhibited macroscopic contractile behaviour. In addition, eschar fibroblasts‐based equivalents demonstrated higher alpha‐smooth muscle actin expression on mRNA and protein levels. In conclusion, our findings suggest that eschar fibroblasts‐based full skin equivalents hold promise as a platform to study burn wound environments as eschar fibroblasts are clinically more relevant fibroblasts and able to mimic certain aspects of the challenging wound environment in vitro.
Enhancing Image Segmentation Model in Computing Void Percentage with Mask RCNN
Authors: Ling Calvin , Abas Mohamad Aizat , Cheng Kai Chew , Azahari Muhammad Taufik
Published: February 2025

Automating quality control has been an ongoing effort, especially when manufacturing large flip-chips. One such method is through employing the convolutional neural network (CNN). This work studied the optimum setup of the Mask RCNN model's accuracy in analysing asymmetrical, large-amount ball grid array (BGA) flip-chip underfilling void formation and its size relative to the underfill region. Experimental images of the through-scan acoustic microscope (TSAM) of BGA underfill are collected, pre-processed, and trained with the Mask RCNN model by tweaking its backbone architecture and hyperparameter. Extraction of the detected region size is computed with a histogram. Otsu's thresholding method and the model's performance in generating the results with its accuracy relative to real-scale images are evaluated based on the customisation done with the CNN and thresholding model. The Mask RCNN-ResNet101-FPN-Custom with Otsu's thresholding method yields the best-performing result in both capturing void(s) in TSAM images up to 96.40% in accuracy and computing the void percentage relative to the underfilling region with a low percentage error of 1.70%. The study provides insight to improve further capturing and computing void presence and size, allowing manufacturers to leverage optimised CNN architecture and image segmentation thresholding algorithm to expedite automated quality checking in a manufacturing process, reducing lead cost.
Conformational ensembles reveal the origins of serine protease catalysis
Authors: Du Siyuan , Kretsch Rachael C. , Parres-Gold Jacob , Pieri Elisa , Cruzeiro Vinícius Wilian D. , Zhu Mingning , Pinney Margaux M. , Yabukarski Filip , Schwans Jason P. , Martínez Todd J. , Herschlag Daniel
Published: February 2025

Enzymes exist in ensembles of states that encode the energetics underlying their catalysis. Conformational ensembles built from 1231 structures of 17 serine proteases revealed atomic-level changes across their reaction states. By comparing the enzymatic and solution reaction, we identified molecular features that provide catalysis and quantified their energetic contributions to catalysis. Serine proteases precisely position their reactants in destabilized conformers, creating a downhill energetic gradient that selectively favors the motions required for reaction while limiting off-pathway conformational states. The same catalytic features have repeatedly evolved in proteases and additional enzymes across multiple distinct structural folds. Our ensemble-function analyses revealed previously unknown catalytic features, provided quantitative models based on simple physical and chemical principles, and identified motifs recurrent in nature that may inspire enzyme design.
Selective chemical looping combustion of acetylene in ethylene-rich streams
Authors: Jacob Matthew , Nguyen Huy , Raj Rishi , Garcia-Barriocanal Javier , Hong Jiyun , Perez-Aguilar Jorge E. , Hoffman Adam S. , Mkhoyan K. Andre , Bare Simon R. , Neurock Matthew , Bhan Aditya
Published: February 2025

The requirement for C
2
H
2
concentrations below 2 parts per million (ppm) in gas streams for C
2
H
4
polymerization necessitates its semihydrogenation to C
2
H
4
. We demonstrate selective chemical looping combustion of C
2
H
2
in C
2
H
4
-rich streams by Bi
2
O
3
as an alternative catalytic pathway to reduce C
2
H
2
concentration below 2 ppm. Bi
2
O
3
combusts C
2
H
2
with a first-order rate constant that is 3000 times greater than the rate constant for C
2
H
4
combustion. In successive redox cycles, the lattice O of Bi
2
O
3
can be fully replenished without discernible changes in local Bi coordination or C
2
H
2
combustion selectivity. Heterolytic activation of C–H bonds across Bi–O sites and the higher acidity of C
2
H
2
results in lower barriers for C
2
H
2
activation than C
2
H
4
, enabling selective catalytic hydrocarbon combustion leveraging differences in molecular deprotonation energies.
Notes from the “politics factory”
Science and Politics
Ian Boyd
Polity, 2025. 304 pp.
Authors: Godfray H. Charles J.
Published: February 2025

A former government science adviser dissects the complex meshing of science and policy
Drylands under pressure: Science and solutions for global stability
Authors: Elouafi Ismahane
Published: February 2025

Drylands are the backbone of global agriculture, supporting
44% of the world’s farming
. Yet, they are under siege. Climate change, land degradation, and water scarcity are transforming these essential regions into barren landscapes, threatening the livelihoods of
nearly three billion people
. These lands, which already face some of the harshest conditions on Earth, are warming faster than other parts of the planet. Their decline imperils food security, biodiversity, and stability across vast swaths of the globe.
In Other Journals
Authors: Smith Keith T. , Vignieri Sacha , Seale Madeleine , Hurtley Stella M. , Maroso Mattia , Suleymanov Yury , Szuromi Phil
Published: February 2025

Editors’ selections from the current scientific literature
Induction of conidial traps in the nematode-trapping fungus
Drechslerella dactyloides
by soil microbes
Authors: Zhang Ling , Zhang Tao , Xu Yan-Rui , Sun Jia-Mei , Pan Xue-Rong , Gu Kun-Ze , Zhang Ke-Qin , Zhang Zhi-Gang , Liang Lian-Ming
Published: February 2025

Nematode-trapping fungi, renowned for their specialized predatory structures that ensnare nematodes, offer a promising biological approach to managing plant-parasitic nematodes. However, the efficacy of these fungi is frequently hampered by biotic and abiotic factors within the soil, which can significantly impede fungal germination (fungistasis). To counteract these environmental challenges, certain nematode-trapping fungi have evolved to produce traps from their conidia, referred to as conidial traps. This adaptation allows them to bypass the inhibitory effects of their surroundings, enhancing their predatory capabilities. In this study, we explored how soil affects conidial trap formation in
Drechslerella dactyloides
. Our findings revealed that
Acinetobacter
spp. and
Pantoea
spp. present in soil extracts play pivotal roles in triggering the development of these traps. Using metagenomic sequencing, we mapped the shifts in bacterial communities and their relative abundances before and after incubation for up to 24 hours to optimize soil induction effects. This analysis highlighted the enrichment of specific functional genes in soil microbes and provided insights into the mechanisms driving conidial trap formation, based on changes in soil characteristics. Furthermore, through bacterial isolation procedures, we successfully cultured and characterized the bacteria responsible for this phenomenon, confirming their potent ability to stimulate the production of conidial traps in nematode-trapping fungi. This study not only underscores the critical role of bacterial diversity in modulating the life cycle transitions of nematode-trapping fungi but also sets the stage for the development of more effective and sustainable strategies to harness these fungi in the battle against pathogenic nematodes.

IMPORTANCE

Predatory nematode-trapping fungi are important microbial antagonists of nematodes and can be developed into biocontrol agents. However, microbial biocontrol agents often suffer from inconsistent efficacy, primarily due to biotic and abiotic stresses in the rhizosphere soil.
Drechslerella dactyloides
, a nematode-trapping fungus, produces conidial traps in soil, serving as a survival strategy to overcome these stresses. In this study, we optimized soil suspensions to efficiently induce the formation of conidial traps. We found that bacteria in the soil directly trigger this formation. Metagenomic sequencing revealed bacterial enrichment during optimization, and we isolated and purified these bacteria with inducible activity. Our research deepens the understanding of this survival strategy of nematode-trapping fungi in nature, laying the foundation for enhancing the effectiveness of nematode biocontrol using this mechanism.
New insights on the predictive value of hypoperfusion intensity ratio in thrombectomy: an updated systematic review and meta-analysis with multiple cut-offs
Authors: Jazayeri Seyed Behnam , Zamarud Aroosa , Derhab Mohamed , Ghozy Sherief , Mirbeyk Mona , Heit Jeremy J , Kallmes David F
Published: February 2025

Background

The hypoperfusion intensity ratio (HIR) has emerged as a vital measure of tissue-level collateral blood flow, helping to identify patients who are likely to benefit from mechanical thrombectomy (MT). We aimed to assess the HIR’s predictive accuracy for clinical outcomes following MT in patients with acute ischemic stroke.

Methods

PubMed, Embase, and Scopus were searched to identify studies comparing good versus poor HIR groups based on studies’ reported cut-offs. We pooled binary outcomes to calculate odds ratios (OR) and continuous outcomes to calculate mean differences (MD) with 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) using random-effects models. PROSPERO registration code: CRD42024609185.

Results

14 studies with 2987 patients, 1553 with good HIR and 1434 with poor HIR, were included in this meta-analysis. Patients with poor HIR exhibited a significantly higher baseline infarct volume compared with those with good HIR (MD 30.6 mL, 95% CI 20.8 mL to 40.3 mL, P<0.01), though baseline National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) (P=0.12) and Alberta Stroke Program Early CT Score (ASPECTS) (P=0.35) were comparable between groups. The rates of infarct growth (MD 22.4 mL, 95% CI 6.7 mL to 38.0 mL, P<0.01) and 3-month mortality (OR 2.18, 95% CI 1.04 to 4.58, P=0.04) were higher among the poor HIR group and good functional recovery (modified Rankin Scale 0–2 at 3 months) was lower (OR 0.58, 95% CI 0.42 to 0.80, P<0.01). The rates of symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (P=0.37) and successful reperfusion (P=0.47) were comparable among groups.

Conclusion

This meta-analysis highlights the significant negative impact of poor HIR on patient outcomes. These findings emphasize the need for personalized treatment strategies for patients with poor HIR.
Acute high-intensity exercise enhances T cell proliferation compared to moderate-intensity exercise
Authors: Siedlik Jacob A. , Deckert Jake , Dunbar Amanda J. , Bhatta Anuja , Gigliotti Nicole M. , Chan Marcia , Benedict Stephen H. , Bubak Matthew , Vardiman John Phillip , Gallagher Philip M.
Published: February 2025

Conventional belief is that high-intensity (HI) exercise inhibits immune function; however, recent work challenges this position. The purpose of this was to quantify changes in T cell proliferative capacity following either a HI or moderate-intensity (MI) exercise. Sixteen males were randomly selected to a HI or MI exercise group. Blood was obtained baseline and immediately, 1-, 4-, and 6-hours post-exercise for analyses of CD3+ T cell proliferation (co-stimulation via PHA or CD3+CD28). The proliferative response increased in T cells in the HI group and remained significantly elevated up to 6-hours post-exercise in both co-stimulation conditions. In contrast, the MI group saw no change proliferative ability following exercise. Analyses of serum stress hormones, and immunomodulatory cytokines failed to reveal any correlated variations that could clarify the T cell findings. We suggest the increase in proliferative capacity following HI exercise is indicative of an exercise-induced activation that provides for enhanced functional responses to stimuli. Moreover, this study shows that HI exercise increases T cell processes, effectively priming them for activation in response to stimuli. This study is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT06638684).
A cordon count program to monitor pedestrian and bicycle exposure in an urban activity area: Case study of a university campus in a winter city
Authors: Scaletta Abby , Mandhani Jyoti , Regehr Jonathan D
Published: February 2025

Pedestrian and bicycle exposure data underpin road safety analyses and related investment decisions, yet many urban areas struggle to implement programs to monitor pedestrian and bicycle traffic. Consequently, there is a need to advance research and practice in non-motorized traffic monitoring and an opportunity to establish monitoring programs for urban activity areas with unique travel patterns. This study designs and implements a novel cordon count program for monitoring pedestrian and bicycle traffic to/from a university campus in a winter city, namely, Winnipeg, Canada. Application of the four-step methodology (program planning, data collection, processing, analysis) yields insights into modal, spatial, and temporal characteristics of non-motorized traffic. The findings reveal differences between pedestrian and bicycle volumes, which are strongly influenced by spatial features (e.g., land use), temporal drivers (e.g., semesters), and weather. This understanding supports the safe accommodation of pedestrians and bicycles and helps justify the prioritization of investments targeting these modes.
Optoelectronic Properties of Mg-Al Co-doped β-Ga2O3: First Principles Calculations
Authors: Chen Lin , Li Haixia , Chen Shangju
Published: February 2025

This study optimizes the optoelectronic properties of β-Ga2O3 through Mg-Al co-doping, enhancing its potential for broadband optoelectronic applications. The modifications behind Mg-Al co-doping were revealed through calculations of the band structure, density of states, and optical properties. The results indicate that Mg-Al co-doping effectively modulates the bandgap (1.86–5.08 eV) by introducing an optimal amount of impurity energy levels, with the bandgap increasing as the concentration rises. Compared to single doping, the co-doped system reduces the likelihood of electron complexation and improves carrier separation efficiency. Optical property analysis reveals that low-concentration Mg-Al co-doping improves the static dielectric constant and exhibits strong absorption in both the UV and visible regions, particularly in the 1.25 at% co-doped system. In contrast, high-concentration co-doping demonstrates notable advantages in UV absorption and reflection properties. Furthermore, the Mg(2)-Al(1) system slightly outperforms the Mg(1)-Al(2) system at the same doping concentration. These findings provide valuable insights into the application of β-Ga2O3 in UV-visible photodetectors, transparent conductive films, and related fields.
RAIN: A multi-state research alliance to facilitate collaboration, increase student opportunities, and share Core Facility resources
Authors: Bothner Brian , Lusetti Shelley L. , Seville Robert S. , Baker Josh E. , Barnes Brian , Hoffmann Peter R. , Hovde Carolyn J.
Published: February 2025

Since 2001, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) has funded the Institutional Development Award (IDeA) Network of Biomedical Research Excellence (INBRE) to expand biomedical research capacity among states in which NIH funding was historically low. The Western IDeA Region comprises seven states: Alaska, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, New Mexico, Nevada, and Wyoming. Beginning in 2017, these states developed an interstate 'super-network'-the Regional Alliance of INBRE Networks (RAIN). RAIN's four initiatives are (i) holding regular INBRE program director/principal investigator (PD/PI) communication and strategy sessions, (ii) sharing research Core Facilities and programs, (iii) developing interstate undergraduate student research exchanges, and (iv) promoting interstate research collaborations. The seven INBRE PD/PIs meet monthly, usually virtually, to share administrative best practices, help each other problem-solve, and support one another's competitive renewals. Sharing IDeA-built Core Facilities and programs offers unique and/or faster services for researchers, without states needing to duplicate core capabilities. This substantially reduced costs. In 2019, ID-, MT-, and NM-INBREs estimated that sharing their existing Core Facilities and services saved $27.6 million over the course of one 5-year funding cycle. Each undergraduate summer research program is open to other RAIN-state students, with 29 student participants thus far. Faculty interdisciplinary research is promoted by a Collaboration Studio and special funding. To date, RAIN support has led to 18 scientific presentations and 12 peer-reviewed publications and generated $1,400,000 in new NIH grants. RAIN is a model for other programs to share best practices, enhance interdisciplinary collaborations, limit redundant infrastructure, and share research/mentoring expertise.
HIF2α: the interface between oxygen-sensing systems in physiology and pathology
Authors: Bishop Tammie , Ratcliffe Peter J.
Published: February 2025

More than 100 years after the original descriptions of altitude adaptation, it is now clear that many of these responses are mediated by a specific isoform of the transcription factor hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF-2α). Here, we review this work, including connectivity with the oxygen chemosensitive response itself, and with paraganglioma, a tumour often affecting chemosensitive tissues.
RNA-based next-generation sequencing approach to non-small cell lung cancer: A single center experience in Turkey
Authors: Gorukmez Orhan , Gorukmez Ozlem , Topak Ali
Published: February 2025

Introduction: Lung cancer is a global health concern. Molecular analysis of tumor tissues, especially in non-small cell lung cancers, has become an integral part of a holistic approach to the management of the disease. Here, molecular genetic data obtained from tumor tissues collected from 373 male and 89 female patients referred to our clinic with a diagnosis of non-small cell lung cancer are presented.
Methods: Patient samples (n=462) were assessed via next-generation sequencing using an RNA-based kit containing 36 genes. Data obtained were analyzed using relevant software, and results of analysis are presented together with the demographic characteristics of the patients.
Results: Significant somatic variations were detected in 208 of 462 patients. KRAS and EGFR had the greatest variations. Rearrangements, mostly involving ALK, were observed in 37 patients, and rare complex changes involving different genes were detected in 10 patients.
Conclusion: This study presents the comprehensive molecular data obtained using an RNA-based kit that provided information on single nucleotide variation (SNV)/insertion-deletion variants (IndDel) and rearrangements in a large patient series from a single center. Somatic variants were detected in approximately 45% of all patients. According to the Catalogue of Somatic Mutations In Cancer (COSMIC) database, our rate of variants detected in KRAS and FGFR3 genes was higher. The rate of variants detected in other genes was lower. In addition, fusions not reported in COSMIC were detected. With the development of next-generation sequencing-based tests and an increase in their use, a broad perspective has been provided to many disease groups, including solid tissue cancers, especially non-small cell lung cancers.
Design optimization of a valve lift limiter of compressors using a fluid-structure interaction model
Authors: Luo Leilei , Guo Bei , Zhou Yuhang , Yun Jiaxuan , Geng Maofei , Wang Xiaolin
Published: February 2025

The valve is a critical component in compressors, significantly affecting their efficiency and reliability. The performance of the reed valve can be largely influenced by the lift limiter. However, the current methods for determining the optimal profile of the limiter lack scientific rigor, relying primarily on empirical observations and trial-and-error approaches. This study proposed an enhanced design process for the limiter profile, aiming to minimize the maximum stress on the valve while ensuring its optimal motion. A fluid-structure interaction (FSI) model was developed to predict the characteristics of the discharge valve in a reciprocating compressor. To efficiently explore the design space and identify the optimal profile, a surrogate model was established using the Kriging model, and genetic algorithm optimization was employed. Detailed comparative analysis was conducted to evaluate the impact of different profiles on valve performance, as well as the influence of different rotational speeds and discharge pressures on the optimal profile. By optimizing the profile of the limiter, the maximum stress of the valve was reduced by 24.74% compared with the initial design of 181.96 MPa, while maintaining a good motion pattern. The impact stress increased most significantly at excessively high rotational speeds, which increased by 50.9%. The increase in discharge pressure also resulted in larger impact stress. This research provides valuable insights and approaches for designing compressor valve lift limiters, contributing to enhancing compressor efficiency and reliability.
Research on the influence mechanism of operating characteristics of an 11-stage pump as turbine under turbine mode
Authors: Liu Zhiwang , Lu Yonggang , Li Xiaolong , Wang Zhengwei , Presas Alexandre
Published: February 2025

Under the background of sustainable development of renewable energy, it is more and more important to recover the energy of high-pressure medium produced in the petrochemical process. In the field of petrochemicals, the multi-stage pump as turbine (PAT) has a strong economy. PAT can not only generate the high-pressure medium required in the petrochemical process but also recover the high-pressure medium energy that has been completed. When the multi-stage PAT is operated under the turbine condition, the internal flow state is more complicated than that under the pump condition. The hydraulic performance often has problems such as a narrow high-efficiency zone, low efficiency, and flow instability. The hydraulic performance will decrease, but the reason for the decrease in hydraulic performance is still unclear. In this paper, the mechanism of PAT internal flow loss and evolution of pressure pulsation is studied. The hydraulic performance and internal flow characteristics of the multi-stage PAT are studied by comparing the experimental and numerical simulation results. The influence of inflow conditions on the internal loss and internal flow characteristics of the PAT stage is found, and the relationship between inflow low-frequency signals 0.2 f BPF and internal loss and the cumulative effect of inflow pressure pulsation is revealed.
Robust propensity score estimation via loss function calibration
Authors: Shang Yimeng , Chiu Yu-Han , Kong Lan
Published: February 2025

Propensity score estimation is often used as a preliminary step to estimate the average treatment effect with observational data. Nevertheless, misspecification of propensity score models undermines the validity of effect estimates in subsequent analyses. Prediction-based machine learning algorithms are increasingly used to estimate propensity scores to allow for more complex relationships between covariates. However, these approaches may not necessarily achieve covariates balancing. We propose a calibration-based method to better incorporate covariate balance properties in a general modeling framework. Specifically, we calibrate the loss function by adding a covariate imbalance penalty to standard parametric (e.g. logistic regressions) or machine learning models (e.g. neural networks). Our approach may mitigate the impact of model misspecification by explicitly taking into account the covariate balance in the propensity score estimation process. The empirical results show that the proposed method is robust to propensity score model misspecification. The integration of loss function calibration improves the balance of covariates and reduces the root-mean-square error of causal effect estimates. When the propensity score model is misspecified, the neural-network-based model yields the best estimator with less bias and smaller variance as compared to other methods considered.
Exploring the Role of Language in Spiritual Health Consultations: Insights From an Ecological Model of Recovery on Depression and Anxiety
Authors: Tercyak Samuel , Vyas Ishani , Kaplan Deanna M. , Palmer Patricia K. , Shelton Maureen , Raison Charles L. , Grant George H. , Idler Ellen , Mascaro Jennifer S.
Published: February 2025

Objective

Consultations conducted by spiritual health clinicians (SHC; also known as healthcare chaplains) offer a unique context for patients to express themselves and are associated with reduced stress and enhanced satisfaction. The language used during these consults may provide insights into emotions and recovery trajectories. This study aimed to characterize patient language in spiritual health consults and examine its relationship to mental health outcomes, evaluated within the Ecological Model of Recovery (EMR) framework.

Methods

SHCs conducted consultations with 212 patients in five acute-care hospitals in the urban south. Pre-consult distress and post-consult anxiety and depression were measured. Consults were audio recorded, transcribed, and analyzed using Linguistic Inquiry and Word Count (LIWC-22). Linguistic indicators of emotion and EMR-related variables were examined. Spearman’s rank-order correlation and Mann-Whitney U tests assessed the relationship between patient language and mental health outcomes.

Results

Language reflecting confidence and discussions about lifestyle and religious topics were associated with lower post-consult anxiety and depression, highlighting the importance of positive self-perception and structured, meaningful activities in recovery. Language related to social connections was negatively associated with depression, while language indicative of differentiation or conflict correlated with higher depression levels.

Conclusion

This study underscores the relationship between patient language during spiritual health consultations and mental health outcomes, emphasizing the therapeutic value of expressive communication. Verbal expression plays a crucial role in emotional recovery, as linguistic patterns in healthcare settings can reflect and influence psychological well-being. Prospective research is needed to fully explore these effects.
Clinical Characteristics and Pathological Features of “Crawling-type” Early Gastric Carcinoma: A Retrospective Series of Eight Cases
Authors: Li Kehan , Zhuang Xiaofeng , Yao Bingyue , Zhang Li , Xu Qinwei , Chen Tao , Cao Jia
Published: February 2025

Background

“Crawling-type” early gastric carcinoma (EGC) is a rare subtype of gastric cancer (GC) that is challenging to diagnose at an early stage due to its low-grade nuclear heterogeneity and morphology that mimics intestinal metaplasia. This study aimed to explore the clinical characteristics and pathological features of patients with crawling-type EGC.

Methods

This case series study retrospectively included patients with crawling-type EGC who underwent endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) or gastrectomy at the East Hospital Affiliated to Tongji University between January 2019 and March 2022.

Results

8 patients (mean age 63.5 ± 7.8 years) were included: 4 underwent ESD, and 4 underwent partial gastrectomy. In 4 patients, the tumors were primarily located in the gastric cardia and the basal gland area of the upper stomach, while the other 4 patients had tumors in the antral region. Preoperative gastroscopy revealed atrophic gastritis and intestinal metaplasia in all patients. The lesions were generally flat in morphology. Submucosal infiltration was found in only one case. Signet ring cells were present in the tumors of 5 patients. The mucinous type was observed in 7 patients. Seven tumors were of the gastrointestinal mixed type. Curative resection was achieved in all patients. No recurrence events were observed in any patient at 1 year after surgery.

Conclusions

The crawling-type EGC may exhibit distinct clinical characteristics and pathological features compared with classical GC. Curative resection was achieved in all patients. The short-term prognosis of surgical treatment may be favorable.
CT features of confirmed nasopharyngeal stenosis in 12 cats
Authors: Kang Kevin , Brash Robert
Published: February 2025

Objectives

CT is frequently utilised in the assessment of upper respiratory tract disorders. The aim of the present study was to further describe the CT features in cats with confirmed nasopharyngeal stenosis (NPS).

Methods

CT images of the heads of cats with NPS confirmed via retroflex nasopharyngoscopy between 2011 and 2023 were retrospectively reviewed to describe the imaging features of NPS and other concurrent findings.

Results

In total, 12 cats were included. All but one cat had pre- and post-contrast images available. All CT studies demonstrated focal, abrupt narrowing of the nasopharyngeal lumen by a variably thickened, homogeneous, soft tissue attenuating band. One cat appeared to have two separate NPS, giving a total of 13 NPS. All NPS were located in the caudal third of the nasopharynx, which resulted in a marked reduction in the luminal cross-sectional area. The narrowing of the nasopharyngeal lumen was either concentric (11/13) or lateral-to-lateral (2/13). Mild homogeneous contrast enhancement of the soft tissue band was observed in 8/11 cats (73%). The soft palate was focally dorsally deviated at the NPS site in 8/12 cats (67%) and was best seen in the sagittal plane. Other concurrent findings included non-contrast-enhancing soft tissue attenuating material within the nasal cavity (7/12) and tympanic bullae (4/12), and mild medial retropharyngeal lymphadenomegaly (2/12).

Conclusions and relevance

The most frequently observed CT features in cats with NPS are marked, focal, abrupt narrowing of the nasopharyngeal lumen by a mildly contrast-enhancing soft tissue band in the caudal third of the nasopharynx and focal deviation of the soft palate dorsally at the NPS site. Identifying any of these CT features in the presence of compatible clinical signs should prompt further evaluation with retroflex nasopharyngoscopy to confirm the diagnosis of NPS and to direct appropriate treatment.