bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An autopsy case of coexisting spinal and bulbar muscular atrophy and multiple system atrophy
Authors: Miura Motoki , Shintaku Hiroshi , Numasawa Yoshiyuki , Ozaki Kokoro , Kanouchi Tadashi , Ishikawa Kinya , Yokota Takanori
Published: February 2025

Here, we report an autopsy case of concurrent spinal and bulbar muscular atrophy (SBMA) and multiple system atrophy (MSA). A 55‐year‐old man presented with weakness, atrophy, and fasciculation of the tongue and the proximal parts of all limbs. The patient gradually developed severe orthostatic hypotension, urinary retention, and cerebellar ataxia; however, no parkinsonism was observed. The patient succumbed to sudden death during sleep. The autopsy revealed widespread and abundant α‐synuclein‐positive glial cytoplasmic inclusions in the central nervous system, indicative of MSA. Neuronal loss was also observed in the substantia nigra and locus coeruleus. Consequently, the patient was diagnosed with MSA. Additionally, immunostaining for the monoclonal 1C2 antibody revealed positive neurons in the medulla oblongata and spinal cord, supporting the additional diagnosis of SBMA. Genetic analysis revealed an expansion of 41 CAG repeats in the androgen receptor (AR) gene (normal range: 12–38), confirming the diagnosis of SBMA. Altogether, concurrent SBMA and MSA were diagnosed based on the autopsy findings, making this the first reported case of such coexistence in the Japanese and English literature.
Successes and Challenges in Implementing Stepped Care for Mental Health in Jordan: A Qualitative Process Evaluation
Authors: Dardas Latefa Ali , Habashneh Rand , Keyan Dharni , Ali Ammar , Saleh Rayan , Aqel Ibrahim Said , Abualhaija Adnan , Bryant Richard
Published: February 2025

The stepped care model is a hierarchical healthcare approach that matches treatment intensity to a patient's condition, ensuring efficient resource use while providing appropriate care. This study conducted a qualitative process evaluation to assess the feasibility, acceptability, and contextual suitability of a multicenter, parallel‐group, superiority, randomized controlled trial addressing psychological distress among adults in Jordan. The trial applied the stepped care framework using two scalable WHO interventions adapted to the Jordanian context. Qualitative data was gathered through focus group discussions and phone interviews with 44 participants, facilitators, and assessors. Two themes emerged: (1) Navigating Transformations, highlighting participants' personal growth, including improved self‐esteem, family dynamics, and coping mechanisms, alongside the benefits of group sessions and supportive relationships with facilitators; and (2) Navigating Challenges and Improvements, focusing on logistical and personal difficulties such as scheduling issues, and suggestions for improving accessibility and engagement. Findings support the feasibility of the stepped care model as a promising approach to providing accessible and effective mental health support in Jordan. The study calls for hybrid models integrating group and individual support while emphasizing the need for enhanced facilitator training and support systems.
Relationships and Synergistic Effects of Body Mass Index and Blood Glucose Marker on the Ankle‐Brachial Index in Adult With Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: A Cross‐Sectional Study
Authors: Fadlilah Siti , Nurrahma Herlin Ajeng , Sumarni Sumarni , Tsai Jia Ruey , Wang Wei‐Jun , Tsai Hsiu Ting
Published: February 2025

This study aimed to identify the independent and synergistic effects of body mass index, fasting blood glucose, and hemoglobin A1c on ankle‐brachial index in type 2 diabetes mellitus. This cross‐sectional study involved 1096 participants who were measured using questionnaires, a digital scale, and a height measurement device. Blood marker was examined using fasting venous blood. The ankle‐brachial index was measured using Doppler ultrasound. A multinomial logistic regression was applied for adjusting confounders. Participants who were obese significantly increased 2.12‐ and 1.86‐fold risk of a low and a high ankle‐brachial index (p <  0.05), respectively. Participants with abnormal fasting blood glucose significantly increased 1.79‐ and 2.05‐fold risk of a low and a high ankle‐brachial index (p <  0.05). Participants with hemoglobin A1c > 6.5% significantly increased 1.71‐ and 1.76‐fold risk of a low and a high ankle‐brachial index (p <  0.05), respectively. Participants with abnormalities for all three indices synergistically increased 12.31‐ and 5.31‐fold risk of a low and a high ankle‐brachial index (p <  0.001), respectively. Abnormal body mass index, fasting blood glucose, and hemoglobin A1c readings significantly, independently, and synergistically increased the risk of an abnormal ankle‐brachial index.
Examining the Relationship Between Healthy Life Awareness and Psychological Well‐Being in Liver Transplantation Patients: A Structural Equation Model
Authors: Meşe Sevinç , Harmancı Pınar
Published: February 2025

This study aimed to evaluate the mediating role of healthy life awareness in the relationship between the sociodemographic characteristics and psychological well‐being of liver transplant patients. The sample of the study consisted of 202 patients aged between 18 and 69 years who underwent liver transplantation surgery at a hospital in Turkey. The data were collected using a sociodemographic information form, the “Healthy Life Awareness Scale” and the “Psychological Well‐Being Scale.” Healthy life awareness directly predicted psychological well‐being (β: 0.68, p < 0.01). Education positively predicted psychological well‐being both directly (β: 0.14, p < 0.05) and indirectly through healthy life awareness (β: 0.76, p < 0.05). Age indirectly predicted healthy life awareness and psychological well‐being through employment status and education. The income level positively predicted healthy life awareness (β: 0.14, p < 0.05), whereas gender (male) negatively predicted healthy life awareness (β: −0.22, p < 0.01). Healthy life awareness was a significant predictor of psychological well‐being. The results of this study may offer valuable information for healthcare providers to tailor interventions that also support mental and emotional health, which is critical to the long‐term success of transplant outcomes.
Beyond species and spatial boundaries: Enabling long‐distance gene silencing in plants via guanidinium‐siRNA nanoparticles
Authors: Lin Shujin , Zhang Qian , Bai Shiyan , Yang Liwen , Qin Guannan , Wang Liyuan , Wang Wenbin , Cheng Cui , Zhang Da , Lu Chunhua , Yuan Jifeng , Li Jingying , Yang Huanghao , Gu Xiaofeng , Han Xiao
Published: February 2025

RNA interference (RNAi) has been widely used in agriculture. However, it is well accepted that common methods of plant RNAi are species‐dependent and lack systematic efficiency. This study designed a thiolated siRNA nanoparticle, guanidinium (Gu+)‐containing disulfide assembled siRNA (Gu+‐siRNA), demonstrating remarkable species independence and efficient systemic gene silencing across different plant species. Our results indicate that this approach effectively utilizes the plant vascular system to deliver siRNA, enabling long‐distance gene silencing across both monocot and dicot plants, such as rice and Arabidopsis. By applying this method, we successfully targeted and silenced key genes like STM, WER, MYB23, GD1, EIL1, and EIL2, which regulate plant development and enhance salt tolerance. This delivery system significantly expands the application of RNAi technology across different plants, serving as a valuable tool for advancing agricultural biotechnology, enhancing crop resistance, and improving agricultural productivity, while aligning with global goals for sustainable food production and crop improvement.
Oral Tofacitinib for the Management of Moderate to Severe Alopecia Areata in Children and Adolescents: A Retrospective Study of 36 Patients
Authors: Mahajan Rahul , Mehta Hitaishi , De Dipankar , Handa Sanjeev
Published: February 2025

Background

Oral tofacitinib shows promise for pediatric alopecia areata (AA), but more data on its efficacy and safety are needed.

Methods

We analyzed 36 patients aged ≤ 16 years with moderate to severe AA (SALT score > 20) who received at least 6 months of oral tofacitinib.

Results

SALT75 was achieved in 72.2% (26/36) and SALT100 in 52.8% (19/36) within 4.1 ± 1.7 and 6.7 ± 2.8 months, respectively; 27.8% (10/36) were non‐responders. Nine patients had adverse events, with two requiring treatment discontinuation.

Conclusion

Tofacitinib is effective for pediatric AA, with rapid regrowth in responders. The durability of benefit and need for long term maintenance therapy require further investigation.
Post‐Liver Transplantation–Burkitt Lymphoma in Children: A Single‐Center Study of Clinical Characteristics, Treatment, and Outcomes
Authors: Chen Tianran , Zheng Weiping , Wang Ruofan , Dong Chong , Sun Chao , Wang Kai , Han Chao , Wei Xinzhe , Gao Wei
Published: February 2025

Background

Post‐liver transplantation–Burkitt lymphoma (PLT‐BL) is an aggressive and life‐threatening complication after pediatric liver transplantation. The research on the disease characteristics, treatment, and prognosis of pediatric PLT‐BL is limited.

Methods

A retrospective, observational study was performed to analyze the disease characteristics, treatment, and outcomes in 12 pediatric liver transplant (LT) recipients diagnosed with PLT‐BL.

Results

The medium time from liver transplantation to diagnosis was 32.71 months (range, 25.78–37.85 months). All patients (100%) tested positive for EBV viremia at diagnosis. Abdomen and peripheral lymph nodes were the most frequently involved sites (11 [91.66%] and 10 [83.33%], respectively). Three pediatric patients were diagnosed as relapsed or refractory PLT‐BL and treated with chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T‐cell therapy, and two of them achieved complete remission (CR). Nine patients were alive with CR at the last follow‐up. Three deaths were attributed to progression and tumor lysis syndrome, characterized by significantly elevated lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) levels (p = 0.027), more advanced tumor stages (p = 0.045), and an increased number of involved sites (p = 0.009). With a median follow‐up of 2.7 years after diagnosis, the event‐free survival (EFS) and overall survival (OS) rates for PLT‐BL patients were 66.7% and 74.1%, respectively. In four patients, immunosuppression was successfully withdrawn and they maintained tolerance status.

Conclusion

Elevated LDH levels, more advanced tumor stages, and increased number of involved sites are potentially associated with poor outcome. Immunosuppression withdrawal is a safe and feasible approach for PLT‐BL.
Do engagement best practices motivate preparedness intentions? Data from earthquake workshops for Spanish speakers
Authors: MacPherson‐Krutsky Carson , Brand Brittany D. , Lindell Michael K.
Published: February 2025

Communities exposed to Cascadia Subduction Zone earthquakes have diverse information needs. However, information about earthquake risk is often developed for general audiences and is rarely tested for its effectiveness at improving risk understanding or preparedness intentions for those general audiences, let alone ethnic minorities. Best practices in risk communication suggest that providing information that is personalized, clear, and culturally appropriate will improve people's willingness to engage with the material and improve learning outcomes. This study reports the test of a 2‐h earthquake preparedness workshop that was based on active learning principles, addressed earthquake impacts, preparedness actions, and included goal setting activities to motivate participants’ preparedness. We engaged local facilitators to deliver a culturally appropriate workshop in Spanish to 52 participants online and in‐person. A pretest/posttest evaluation revealed significant increases in expected earthquake consequences, risk area accuracy for shaking zone and liquefaction zone, positive affect, self‐efficacy, and, most important, preparedness intentions. These results indicate that an active learning strategy is an effective method of risk communication. However, further research is needed to identify ways to change the variables that had weak or nonsignificant impacts and to determine if the preparedness intentions ultimately produce preparedness actions.
Integrable Hierarchy for Homogeneous Realization of the Toroidal Lie Algebra Lr+1tor(slℓ)$\mathcal {L}^{\mathrm{tor}}_{r+1}(\mathfrak {sl}_\ell)$
Authors: Wu Chao‐Zhong , Yang Yi
Published: February 2025

Starting from a fairly explicit homogeneous realization of the toroidal Lie algebra via a lattice vertex algebra, we derive an integrable hierarchy of Hirota bilinear equations. Moreover, we represent this hierarchy in the form of Lax equations, and show that it is an extension of a certain reduction of the ‐component KP hierarchy.
Mobile Applications for Hemodialysis: Evaluation Using the Mobile App Rating Scale (MARS)
Authors: Esmaeeli Erfan , Khorashadizadeh Mohadeseh Sadat , Rahmani Meysam
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Mobile applications (apps) and social media could be useful in improving the condition of patients on hemodialysis. Despite the rise of mobile health apps in hemodialysis management, no research has evaluated the quality of these apps with reliable tools. This study aimed to evaluate the quality of apps designed for the self‐care of patients on hemodialysis.

Materials and Methods

A review of Google Play and App Store mobile platforms was carried out to evaluate the mobile apps used for hemodialysis. These apps were assessed using the mobile application rating scale (MARS), which includes criteria for overall quality, engagement, functionality, aesthetics, and information. Search keywords included “Dialysis,” “Kidney Dialysis,” “Hemodialysis,” “Haemodialysis,” and “Peritoneal Dialysis.” Eligibility criteria included being related to dialysis, being designed specifically for patients, being free, being available in English, and being developed for Android and iOS platforms. The included apps were independently evaluated and rated by two reviewers using MARS.

Results

Initially, 177 apps were identified, and after the screening and review processes, six apps were selected for qualitative evaluation. The overall scores on MARS varied from 2.33 to 3.67. The “KidneyPal: Kidney Disease Mgmt” app received the highest scores in most MARS items. Moreover, the maximum app quality mean score belonged to “KidneyPal: Kidney Disease Mgmt” (4.26 out of 5).

Conclusion

The findings showed a limited number of apps available for hemodialysis, the majority of which were of low quality. The reviewed apps performed well in functionality but obtained lower scores in terms of app subjective quality. Future studies should focus on developing and testing mobile apps using assessment tools, such as MARS, as well as evaluating their impact on health behaviors and outcomes.
Association analyses reveal both anthropic and environmental selective events during eggplant domestication
Authors: Omondi Emmanuel , Barchi Lorenzo , Gaccione Luciana , Portis Ezio , Toppino Laura , Tassone Maria Rosaria , Alonso David , Prohens Jaime , Rotino Giuseppe Leonardo , Schafleitner Roland , van Zonneveld Maarten , Giuliano Giovanni
Published: February 2025

Eggplant (Solanum melongena) is one of the four most important Solanaceous crops, widely cultivated and consumed in Asia, the Mediterranean basin, and Southeast Europe. We studied the genome‐wide association of historical genebank phenotypic data on a genotyped worldwide collection of 3449 eggplant accessions. Overall, 334 significant associations for key agronomic traits were detected. Significant correlations were obtained between different types of phenotypic data, some of which were not obvious, such as between fruit size/yield and fruit color components, suggesting simultaneous anthropic selection for genetically unrelated traits. Anthropic selection of traits like leaf prickles, fruit color, and yield, acted on distinct genomic regions in the two domestication centers (India and Southeast Asia), further confirming the multiple domestication of eggplant. To discriminate anthropic from environmental selection in domestication centers, we conducted a genotype–environment association (GEA) on a subset of georeferenced accessions from the Indian subcontinent. The population structure in this area revealed four genetic clusters, corresponding to a latitudinal gradient, and environmental factors explained 31% of the population structure when the effect of spatial distances was removed. GEA and outlier association identified 305 candidate regions under environmental selection, containing genes for abiotic stress responses, plant development, and flowering transition. Finally, in the Indian domestication center anthropic and environmental selection acted largely independently, and on different genomic regions. These data allow a better understanding of the different effects of environmental and anthropic selection during domestication of a crop, and the different world regions where some traits were initially selected by humans.
Successful venotomy for portal tumor thrombus removal due to pancreatic carcinoma in a dog
Authors: Hertel Beatrice , Bortolami Elisa , Furlanello Tommaso , Bertolini Giovanna , Cinti Filippo
Published: February 2025

Objective

To describe a portal venotomy technique and outcome for tumoral thrombus removal in a dog with insulinoma invading the portal vein.

Study design

Case report.

Animals

A 9‐year‐old entire male West Highland White Terrier.

Methods

The dog was referred for further investigation of recurrent collapsing episodes and weakness. An abdominal ultrasound revealed a pancreatic mass. Biochemical tests were consistent with insulinoma. A dynamic (4D) contrast‐enhanced computed tomography (CT) perfusion study showed a large pancreatic mass originating from the left lobe of the pancreas invading both the portal and splenic veins directly. The portal vein was 80% occluded between the gastroduodenal and splenic vein entry points. The dog underwent partial pancreatectomy, splenectomy, and portal venotomy. Following identification of the thrombus by direct visualization and palpation, Rummel tourniquets were used to isolate the segment of the portal vein, and portal venotomy was performed over the thrombus. The venotomy was repaired with primary closure. Intraoperative hemorrhage was absent following the release of the vascular isolation.

Results

Histopathology was consistent with insulinoma. The dog was discharged 4 days after surgery. Short‐term follow up revealed an absence of postoperative complications. The dog was started on adjuvant therapy, and the re‐examination 3 months after surgery showed an absence of the clinical signs and a good quality of life. One year after surgery, the dog is still alive with confirmed metastatic disease.

Conclusion

Portal venotomy was successful for thrombus removal and this dog tolerated temporary occlusion of the portal vein well. Careful preoperative CT planning is crucial for good surgical outcomes.
Competitive fitness of bird rape mustard (Brassica rapa L.) that integrated transgenes conferring glyphosate resistance in commercial fields
Authors: Simard Marie‐Josée , Laforest Martin , Martin Sara L.
Published: February 2025

Ten years after the introduction of genetically engineered canola (Brassica napus L.), bird rape mustard (Brassica rapa L.) with transgenes conferring glyphosate resistance was reported where the crop and the weed were sympatric. Another decade later, populations of these weeds were reported on farms located beyond this initial region of sympatry. To determine if populations with introgressed transgenes have the potential to persist in field borders where wild types and crop plants can be found, the competitive fitness of two of these populations was compared to that of two naturalised wild Brassica rapa populations, a B. rapa cultivar and a B. napus cultivar, in a greenhouse study. Single plants of each of these six Brassica lines (referred to as types) were grown surrounded by four to eight contour plants (1:4 or 1:8) of each type, for a total of 36 combinations, at two densities. The experiment included four replicates and was repeated twice with one trial ending at flowering and the second continuing to plant maturity. Analyses evaluated the effect of Brassica type and density on phenology, total aboveground biomass and seed production as well as gains or losses in these latter fitness components by centre plants compared to contour plants. Results demonstrate that the bird rape mustard populations with transgenes from haphazard crosses with glyphosate‐tolerant B. napus crop plants were not always as fit as other, wild B. rapa populations. Their early development was slower than wild types and their biomass was generally reduced when grown surrounded by dissimilar plant types. Nevertheless, observed differences were unlikely to limit the persistence of these biotypes in the absence of glyphosate application.
Eating Disorder Biomarkers: Macronutrient Regulation of Ghrelin and Leptin
Authors: Mohd Mazlan Balqis , Juhari Farah Hanis , Nik Malek Nik Ahmad Nizam , Mohd Lazaldin Mohd Aizuddin , Mohamad Salim Maheza Irna
Published: February 2025

This review examines the potential of ghrelin and leptin as biomarkers in eating disorders by analysing their roles in appetite regulation, energy balance, and eating behaviour. Ghrelin stimulates hunger, whereas leptin suppresses appetite and maintains energy homeostasis. Dysregulation of these hormones, often influenced by high-fat and high-sugar diets, is linked to overeating, obesity, and eating disorders. Imbalances in ghrelin and leptin signalling are associated with conditions such as hyperphagia and binge eating. This review also explores effects of stress and hormonal resistance on these hormones. Understanding how ghrelin and leptin interact with central and peripheral systems offers insights into appetite regulation and potential therapeutic targets for metabolic and psychological disorders.
K-Nearest Neighbor-Based Detection of Chokanan Mango Maturity for Agricultural Technology Applications
Authors: Noramli Nur Athirah Syafiqah , Mohd Ghazalli Hajar Izzati , Abdul Rahim Herlina
Published: February 2025

This study presents a novel application of machine learning, specifically the K-Nearest Neighbors (KNN) algorithm implemented in Python, to detect the maturity of Chokanan mangoes. The research addressed a critical need in agriculture and food technology by providing an automated system for evaluating fruit maturity, thereby enhancing post-harvest processes and ensuring high-quality production for consumers. The proposed method involved the extraction of key features from mango images and training a KNN classifier with labeled data. The trained model was then utilized to classify mango samples into distinct maturity stages. The experimental results demonstrated the system's high accuracy in classifying mango maturity, showcasing its potential as a practical solution for fruit quality assessment. By integrating this approach, the fruit industry can improve their operational efficiency, reduce waste, and better meet consumer expectation for premium-quality fruits.
Scott analysis, linear orders, and almost periodic functions
Authors: Gonzalez David , Harrison‐Trainor Matthew , “Turbo” Ho Meng‐Che
Published: February 2025

Given a countable structure, the Scott complexity measures the difficulty of characterizing the structure up to isomorphism. In this paper, we consider the Scott complexity of linear orders. For any limit ordinal , we construct a linear order whose Scott complexity is . This completes the classification of the possible Scott sentence complexities of linear orderings. Previously, there was only one known construction of any structure (of any signature) with Scott complexity , and our construction gives new examples, for example, rigid structures, of this complexity. Moreover, we can construct the linear orders so that not only does have Scott complexity , but there are continuum‐many structures and all such structures also have Scott complexity . In contrast, we demonstrate that there is no structure (of any signature) with Scott complexity that is only ‐equivalent to structures with Scott complexity . Our construction is based on functions that are almost periodic but not periodic, such as those arising from shifts of the ‐adic valuations.
Preparation of stable and highly hydrophobic coatings via one-step spray method and study of their anti-icing performance
Authors: Li Changquan , Xue Jiawei , Xue Zhiye , Sun Jianhua , Amirfazli Alidad
Published: February 2025

In daily life, phenomena such as icing, corrosion, and dust accumulation on metal surfaces significantly reduce the operational efficiency of working systems. Research into stable and functional waterproof protective layers on metal surfaces has become a focal point of attention. The ability of superhydrophobic surfaces to remain dry is attractive for their self-cleaning, corrosion-resistant, anti-icing, and deicing properties. However, some superhydrophobic surfaces are highly susceptible to damage from external forces or even light touches, causing them to lose their superhydrophobic properties. Furthermore, the complex preparation process and stringent equipment requirements for superhydrophobic surfaces also limit their application prospects. Here, we filled epoxy resin with modified SiC particles mixed with different particle sizes (E-51) and added silica sol and silica sol mixed with SiC particles of varying sizes. Due to the excellent adhesive properties of epoxy resin (E-51), micro/nanoparticles are firmly adhered to the substrate surface. As a result, the coating withstands various mechanical stability tests, including 250 cycles of sandpaper abrasion, 25 impacts from gravel, 240 water jet impacts, and 30 cycles of adhesive tape peeling. It also passed the 4H pencil hardness test and scratch resistance test (level 1). Moreover, when immersed in acid/alkali/salt solutions or exposed to UV radiation and high temperatures, its superhydrophobic properties exhibit minimal changes over certain time and temperature ranges. With an inhibitory efficiency of 99.52%, the electrochemical polarization curve (Tafel) results verify a notable improvement in the ability of the coating to withstand corrosion. Benefiting from the excellent photothermal conversion performance of nanosilicon carbide, the surface temperature of the coating can rapidly rise under sunlight, promising excellent prospects in anti-icing/deicing applications. This highlights the functional potential of the superhydrophobic coating to a great extent.
Synthetic adaptive matched field processing for moving source range estimation in deep water
Authors: Zhai Zhaokai , Li Fenghua , Zhu Feilong , Zhang Bo , Zhai Duo , Mao Junjie
Published: February 2025

Adaptive matched field processing (AMFP) has proven effective for source localization in deep-water environments. However, when the target is in motion, the need for numerous snapshot samples can lead to distortion in covariance estimation, degrading AMFP performance. A synthetic AMFP method has been proposed to compensate for the phase of multi-snapshot signals, enhancing AMFP performance. Additionally, a rough estimation of target velocity is obtained. The efficacy of the method has been validated through numerical simulations and experimental data, with results showing that, within a 9 km range, the average localization error is reduced by 1.45 km compared to traditional AMFP.
Comparison of Optimal Drop Heights in 2 Drop-Jump Exercises for Basketball Athletes With Differing Strength Levels
Authors: Yue Leijiao , Liu Zhitao , Wang Shanwei , Lin Tianqi , Liang Cheng , Yin Jun , Liu Chenglin
Published: February 2025

Purpose: Previous research has primarily focused on bounce drop jump (BDJ) rather than countermovement drop jump (CDJ) in studying optimal drop heights for drop jump. This study explored the biomechanic parameters of both BDJ and CDJ and their relationship with performance across varying drop heights based on the percentage of squat-jump height (SJH). Methods: Twenty-four college basketball athletes were recruited and divided into low- and high-strength groups. Participants performed BDJ and CDJ at 50%, 75%, 100%, 125%, 150%, and 175% of SJH. The point or zone with the largest reactive strength index (RSI) corresponds to the optimal drop height for a drop jump. Results: Optimal drop heights were determined to be 84.7% of SJH for BDJ low strength and 84.1% of SJH for BDJ high strength, with no significant difference between groups (P = .213). For CDJ, relative optimal drop heights were 104.6% of SJH for CDJ low strength and 106.1% of SJH for CDJ high strength, also with no significant difference (P = .717). Mechanical power with RSI exhibited a coefficient close to 1 (r = .98–.99), while average propulsive force demonstrated a very strong positive correlation with RSI (r = .72–.77). Conclusions: It is recommended that basketball athletes incorporate particular percentages of SJH into drop jump, with 75% to 100% of SJH for BDJ and 100% to 125% of SJH for CDJ, as these heights are associated with achieving an optimal RSI and mechanical power. Tailoring the inclusion of BDJ or CDJ in training should account for the specific demands of on-court positions and task objectives for basketball players.
Confirmation Bias in Sport Science: Understanding and Mitigating Its Impact
Authors: Beato Marco , Latinjak Alexander T. , Bertollo Maurizio , Boullosa Daniel
Published: February 2025

Purpose: Confirmation bias, a cognitive phenomenon deeply ingrained in human thinking, shapes our perception of reality. It leads individuals to favor information that aligns with their preexisting beliefs while dismissing or undervaluing the contrary evidence. In sport science, where precision and evidence-based practices are critical aspects to optimize performance, confirmation bias can decisively impact decision-making processes. In this context, practitioners rely on both objective and subjective data to be interpreted to enhance athletic performance. However, confirmation bias introduces a subtle yet powerful distortion, which is difficult to control and quantify. We usually believe that our observations can justify expectations or predictions about future observations, as well as broader generalizations beyond what we have directly observed—inductive inferences. Researchers and practitioners may therefore unknowingly seek out evidence that confirms their beliefs, inadvertently overlooking alternative viewpoints and interpretations. Conclusions: This paper explores the concept of confirmation bias in sport science, providing practical examples in the contexts of testing, training, and monitoring. By understanding how confirmation bias operates (ie, heuristic of decision making), we may develop strategies to mitigate its effects and promote more accurate and effective decision making in sport science (eg, performance).
Declining Physical Education Access in U.S. Schools: A State-by-State Analysis of Policy Implementation
Authors: Kern Ben D. , Wilson Wesley J. , Killian Chad , Paulson Lisa , van der Mars Hans , Woo David , Wallhead Tristan
Published: February 2025

Purpose: This study evaluated student access to physical education in 26 U.S. states, examining weekly minutes, class sizes, and policy implementation practices. Methods: The U.S. Physical Education and Physical Activity Policy questionnaire was distributed to 40,970 physical education teachers across 26 states. Data were collected on weekly minutes, days/week, class sizes, and policy-related practices. Responses were analyzed to assess physical education access and its correlation with class sizes. Results: Findings revealed that student physical education access is below recommendations, with significant between-state variability. Average weekly minutes were 92.8 in elementary, 151.8 in middle school, 185.9 in high school, and 157.8 for students with disabilities. Positive correlations between minutes/week and class sizes suggest that some schools increase class sizes to maintain instructional time. Conclusion: To address declining physical education access, future efforts should focus on engaging educators and policymakers through advocacy, professional development, and best practices in state policies.
Centrioles generate two scaffolds with distinct biophysical properties to build mitotic centrosomes
Authors: Wong Siu-Shing , Monteiro Joao M. , Chang Chia-Chun , Peng Min , Mohamad Nada , Steinacker Thomas L. , Xiao Bocheng , Saurya Saroj , Wainman Alan , Raff Jordan W.
Published: February 2025

Mitotic centrosomes assemble when centrioles recruit large amounts of pericentriolar material (PCM) around themselves. The PCM comprises hundreds of proteins, and there is much debate about its physical nature. Here, we show that
Drosophila
Spd-2 (human CEP192) fluxes out from centrioles, recruiting Polo and Aurora A kinases to catalyze the assembly of two distinct mitotic-PCM scaffolds: a Polo-dependent Cnn scaffold, and an Aurora A–dependent TACC scaffold, which exhibit solid- and liquid-like behaviors, respectively. Both scaffolds can independently recruit PCM proteins, but both are required for proper centrosome assembly, with the Cnn scaffold providing mechanical strength, and the TACC scaffold concentrating centriole and centrosome proteins. Recruiting Spd-2 to synthetic beads injected into early embryos reconstitutes key aspects of mitotic centrosome assembly on the bead surface, and this depends on Spd-2’s ability to recruit Polo and Aurora A. Thus, Spd-2 orchestrates the assembly of two scaffolds, with distinct biophysical properties, that cooperate to build mitotic centrosomes in flies.
187
Os nuclear resonance scattering to explore hyperfine interactions and lattice dynamics for biological applications
Authors: Stepanenko Iryna , Huang Zhishuo , Ungur Liviu , Bessas Dimitrios , Chumakov Aleksandr , Sergueev Ilya , Büchel Gabriel E. , Al-Kahtani Abdullah A. , Chibotaru Liviu F. , Telser Joshua , Arion Vladimir B.
Published: February 2025

Osmium complexes with osmium in different oxidation states (II, III, IV, and VI) have been reported to exhibit antiproliferative activity in cancer cell lines. Herein, we demonstrate unexplored opportunities offered by
187
Os nuclear forward scattering (NFS) and nuclear inelastic scattering (NIS) of synchrotron radiation for characterization of hyperfine interactions and lattice dynamics in a benchmark Os(VI) complex, K
2
[OsO
2
(OH)
4
]. We determined the isomer shift [δ = 3.3(1) millimeters per second] relative to [Os
IV
Cl
6
]
2−
and quadrupole splitting [Δ
E
Q
= 12.0(2) millimeters per second] with NFS. We estimated the Lamb-Mössbauer factor [0.80(4)], extracted the density of phonon states, and carried out a thermodynamics characterization using the NIS data combined with first-principles calculations. Overall, we provide evidence that
187
Os nuclear resonance scattering is a reliable technique for the investigation of hyperfine interactions and Os-specific vibrations in osmium(VI) species and is thus applicable for such measurements in osmium complexes of other oxidation states, including those with anticancer activity such as Os(III) and Os(IV).
Direct carbonyl reductive functionalizations by diphenylphosphine oxide
Authors: Liu Feng , Dong Jianyu , Cheng Ruofei , Yin Shuang-Feng , Chen Lang , Su Lebin , Qiu Renhua , Zhou Yongbo , Han Li-Biao , Li Chao-Jun
Published: February 2025

Reductive functionalization of aldehydes and ketones is one of the most challenging but ultimately rewarding areas in synthetic chemistry and related sciences. We report a simple and extremely versatile carbonyl reductive functionalization strategy achieving direct, highly selective, and efficient reductive amination, etherification, esterification, and phosphinylation reactions of (hetero)aryl aldehydes and ketones, which are extremely challenging or unattainable to achieve by traditional strategies, using only diphenylphosphine oxide and an inorganic base. It enables modular synthesis of functionally and structurally diverse tertiary amines, ethers, esters, phosphine oxides, etc., as well as related pesticides, drug intermediates, and pharmaceuticals. Compared to phosphorus-mediated name reactions, this strategy firstly transformed C═O bonds into C-element single bonds. Mechanistically, phosphinates are formed as intermediates, which undergo unconventional nucleophilic substitution at the C atom within their C─O─P unit. Thus, this work provides important strides in the field of reductive functionalization of aldehydes/ketones, phosphorus-mediated transformation, and various fundamental reactions.
Broad active metabolic pathways, autophagy, and antagonistic hormones regulate dinoflagellate cyst dormancy in marine sediments
Authors: Deng Yunyan , Yue Caixia , Yang Huijiao , Li Fengting , Hu Zhangxi , Shang Lixia , Chai Zhaoyang , Lin Senjie , Tang Ying Zhong
Published: February 2025

This work aimed to reveal the molecular machinery regulating the dormancy of dinoflagellate resting cysts buried in marine sediments. Dinoflagellates play pivotal roles in marine ecosystems, particularly as major contributors of harmful algal blooms. Despite vital roles of cysts in blooming cycles and dinoflagellate ecology, the molecular processes controlling cyst dormancy have largely remained unexplored due to technological difficulties. Using DinoSL as a dinoflagellates-specific mRNA “hook” and SMRT sequencing, we analyzed metatranscriptomes of sediment-buried dinoflagellate cyst assemblages. The data show that most major metabolic and regulatory pathways, except photosynthesis, were transcriptionally active. This suggests the crucial importance of broad metabolic pathways in sustaining cyst viability and germination potential. Further expression analyses of 11 genes (relevant to autophagy and phytohormone gibberellin), lysosome/autolysosome staining, and germination experiments revealed vital roles of autophagy in energy generation, nutrient recycling, and of phytohormones abscisic acid/gibberellin in modulating dormancy/germination of resting cysts. Our findings lay a cornerstone for elucidating the molecular machinery regulating dinoflagellate cyst dormancy.
A soft multimodal optoelectronic array interface for multiparametric mapping of heart function in vivo
Authors: Quirion Nathaniel T. , Madrid Micah , Chang Jialin , Fehr Amy , Rytkin Eric , Shields Nora , Burke Bridget , Elekeokwuri Amarachi , Efimov Igor R. , Lu Luyao
Published: February 2025

Multiparametric investigation of cardiac physiology is crucial for the diagnosis and therapy of heart disease. However, no method exists to simultaneously map multiple parameters that govern cardiac (patho)physiology from beating hearts in vivo. Here, we present a cardiac sensing platform that addresses this challenge, functioning with a wireless interface. Advanced fabrication and assembling strategies enable the heterogeneous integration of transparent microelectrodes, light-emitting diodes, photodiodes, and optical filters into a multilayer array structure on soft substrates. The microelectrodes exhibit superior electrochemical performance for measuring electrical potentials and excellent transparency for co-localized fluorescence measurement. The device shows excellent biocompatibility and records the fluorescence of calcium reporter with performance comparable to imaging cameras. Multiparametric in vivo mapping of electrical excitation, calcium dynamics, and their combined effects on cardiac excitation-contraction coupling is demonstrated during normal rhythm, arrhythmia, and treatment. This technology offers potential widespread use in cardiac research to support scientific discoveries and advance clinical life-saving diagnostics and therapies.
A material dynamically enhancing both load-bearing and energy dissipation capability under cyclic loading
Authors: Sun Bohan , Kitchen Grant , He Dongjing , Malu Deep K. , Ding Jitao , Huang Yiji , Eisape Adebayo , Omar Mostafa M. , Hu Yuhang , Kang Sung Hoon
Published: February 2025

Material properties gradually degrade under cyclic loading, leading to catastrophic failure. It results in large costs for inspection, maintenance, and downtime. Besides, materials require combinations of performance such as load bearing and energy dissipation. However, improving one performance of a material often sacrifices another performance, making it difficult to create materials with optimal performance profiles. Here we report a liquid-infused porous piezoelectric scaffold (LIPPS) that simultaneously enhances its load-bearing and energy dissipation capability under cyclic loading. For example, after 12 million loading cycles, LIPPS increases its modulus by 3600% and hysteresis by 3000%. From a CT study, this behavior is attributed to the self-recoverable mineralization under mechanical loading. Moreover, LIPPS shows a reprogrammable stiffness distribution based on the loading distribution, which enables the material to generate multiple shapes by self-folding. Our findings can contribute toward unprecedented opportunities in soft robotics, vehicles, infrastructure, and tissue engineering and contribute to the new paradigm of material selection with improved resilience and sustainability.
Retrospective analysis of antimicrobial resistance associated with bovine respiratory disease
Authors: Kos Daniel , Jelinski Murray , Ruzzini Antonio
Published: February 2025

The administration and utility of antibiotics to control and treat bovine respiratory disease (BRD) in beef cattle feedlots is a growing concern. Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) among BRD-associated bacterial pathogens has been the subject of cultivation-dependent and cultivation-independent surveillance. Bacterial genome sequencing and metagenomic approaches facilitate the characterization of AMR in the beef industry; however, the current collection of cattle-associated AMR research programs lack connections to each other. A more integrated view of how antimicrobial use (AMU) is related to resistance at a gene level is needed. We sought to establish a catalog of commonly observed AMR genes (ARGs) in opportunistic bacterial pathogens that contribute to BRD using publicly available data sets that were generated by the scientific community with and without AMU in mind. The presence of these clinically relevant ARGs appeared to differ by geography. Greater sampling in North America facilitated the generation of a list of ARGs often encoded by
Mannheimia haemolytica
and
Pasteurella multocida
. Detection of clinically relevant ARGs in shotgun metagenomes of cattle-associated and accessible feedlot samples such as water, soil, and feces was possible but limited by relative sequence read abundance. An exception was the tylosin esterase-encoding gene
estT
, which is among the most frequently observed ARGs in
M. haemolytica
and feedlot-related metagenomic data sets. Finally, by re-evaluating studies on the impact of AMU on AMR in beef production systems, we show that conventional practices, including in-feed antibiotic use, increase the relative abundance of ARGs in animal-derived samples.

IMPORTANCE

This retrospective analysis delivers a list of ARGs found in opportunistic pathogens that contribute to BRD. The high incidence of BRD in North America is linked to the origin and implementation of metaphylaxis to mitigate detrimental animal losses at feedlots. Notably, ARGs commonly observed in these pathogens isolated in North America were not conserved across the globe, underscoring the relationship between regional AMU and AMR. A positive relationship was also observed between the relative abundance of ARGs in cattle-associated metagenomes with greater exposure to antibiotics. Overall, this analysis should help to guide future surveillance efforts and experimental designs to more directly evaluate the impacts of feedlot practices on AMR.
Polysulfides promote protein disulfide bond formation in microorganisms growing under anaerobic conditions
Authors: Xin Yuping , Wang Qingda , Yang Jianming , Wu Xiaohua , Xia Yongzhen , Xun Luying , Liu Huaiwei
Published: February 2025

Polysulfides commonly occur in anaerobic, microbial active environments, where they play key roles in sulfur cycling and redox transformations. Anaerobic survival of microorganisms requires the formation of protein disulfide bond (DSB). The relationship between polysulfides and anaerobic DSB formation has not been studied so far. Herein, we discovered that polysulfides can efficiently mediate protein DSB formation of microorganisms under anaerobic conditions. We used polysulfides to treat proteins, including roGFP2, Trx1, and DsbA, under anaerobic conditions and found that all three proteins formed intramolecular DSB
in vitro
. Under anaerobic conditions,
Escherichia coli
Δ
dsbB
displayed reduced growth and decreased intracellular protein DSB levels, but polysulfide treatment restored both growth and DSB content. Similarly, polysulfide treatment of
E. coli
Δ
dsbA
promoted periplasmic roGFP2 DSB formation and recovered growth under anaerobic conditions. Furthermore, treating
Schizosaccharomyces pombe
and
Cupriavidus pinatubonensis
JMP134 with polysulfides increased their intracellular protein DSB content. Collectively, these findings demonstrate that polysulfides can promote DSB formation independently of known enzymatic DSB-mediated systems and the presence of oxygen, thereby benefiting the survival of microorganisms in anaerobic habitats.

IMPORTANCE

How polysulfides enhance the adaption of microorganisms to anaerobic environments remains unclear. Our study reveals that polysulfides efficiently facilitate protein DSB formation under anaerobic conditions. Polysulfides contain zero-valent sulfur atoms (S
0
), which can be transferred to the thiol group of cysteine residue. This S
0
atom then accepts two electrons from two cysteine residues and is reduced to H
2
S, leaving the two cysteines linked by a disulfide bond. Anaerobic growth of microorganisms benefits from the formation of DSB. These findings pave the way for a deeper understanding of the intricate relationship between polysulfides and microorganisms in various environmental contexts.
Hands-on learning for probiotic quality assessment: enhancing microbiology education through applied microbial counting techniques
Authors: Mangieri Nicola , Arioli Stefania , Russo Pasquale , Mora Diego
Published: February 2025

The microbial plate count continues to be an essential technique in food microbiology research and quality control. In food science education, this technique is often taught through traditional fact-based methods, requiring students to follow pre-established protocols. This approach may not fully engage students or enhance their problem-solving skills. Eighty-two final-year Food Science and Technology bachelor’s students at the University of Milan were asked to combine their knowledge on general microbiology and microbial physiology for quality assessment of different probiotic products, including freeze-dried cells, fermented milk, and bacterial spore suspension. They were required to select the appropriate culture media, incubation conditions, and treatments based on flow cytometry cell quantification to optimize microbial plate counts and selectively count the different microbial species present in the probiotic formulations. The project aimed to bridge theoretical knowledge with practical applications, emphasizing the most appropriate procedure for viable and cultivable cell quantification, particularly relevant in probiotic formulation. Survey feedback indicated high satisfaction and relevance to future careers, with the majority finding the activity challenging yet engaging. The project demonstrated the effectiveness of combining different microbiological techniques in education, fostering a deeper understanding of the cultivability of probiotics and the role of selective agents.