bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Individual differences in probabilistic learning and updating predictive representations in individuals with obsessive-compulsive tendencies
Authors: Brezóczki Bianka , Farkas Bence Csaba , Hann Flóra , Pesthy Orsolya , Tóth-Fáber Eszter , Farkas Kinga , Csigó Katalin , Németh Dezső , Vékony Teodóra
Published: December 2024

Obsessive-compulsive (OC) tendencies involve intrusive thoughts and rigid, repetitive behaviours that also manifest at the subclinical level in the general population. The neurocognitive factors driving the development and persistence of the excessive presence of these tendencies remain highly elusive, though emerging theories emphasize the role of implicit information processing. Despite various empirical studies on distinct neurocognitive processes, the incidental retrieval of environmental structures in dynamic and noisy environments, such as probabilistic learning, has received relatively little attention. In this study, we aimed to unravel potential individual differences in implicit probabilistic learning and the updating of predictive representations related to OC tendencies in the general population. We conducted two independent online experiments (NStudy1= 164, NStudy2= 257) with young adults. Probabilistic learning was assessed using a reliable implicit visuomotor probabilistic learning task, which involved sequences with second-order non-adjacent dependencies. Our findings revealed that even among individuals displaying a broad spectrum of OC tendencies within a non-clinical population, implicit probabilistic learning remained remarkably robust. Furthermore, the results highlighted effective updating capabilities of predictive representations, which were not influenced by OC tendencies. These results offer new insights into individual differences in probabilistic learning and updating in relation to OC tendencies, contributing to theoretical, methodological, and practical approaches for understanding the maladaptive behavioural manifestations of OC disorder and subclinical tendencies.
A fast-track, high-throughput screening platform for biological nitrification inhibitors discovery based on soil relevant ammonia oxidizing strains
Authors: Kanellopoulos Alexandros E. , Malits Andrea , Ribeiro Hugo , Kerou Melina , Ghatak Arindam , Chaturvedi Palak , Weckwerth Wolfram , Karpouzas Dimitrios G. , Schleper Christa , Papadopoulou Evangelia S.
Published: December 2024

Nitrogen cycling is critical for ecosystem functioning, with nitrification playing a central role. Excessive nitrification, triggered by heavy nitrogen fertilisation, contributes to reduced nitrogen use efficiency, nitrate leaching, and nitrous oxide emissions. While synthetic nitrification inhibitors (SNIs) help reduce these impacts, their erratic performance and environmental risks have shifted focus to biological nitrification inhibitors (BNIs) as sustainable alternatives.In vitrobioassays with ammonia-oxidising microorganisms (AOM) are valuable for BNI discovery and research, but often have low throughput and rely on a limited number of mostly non-soil-relevant or genetically modified ammonia-oxidizing bacteria (AOB) strains, lacking validation with established BNIs. We present a refined fast-track, high-throughput assay for BNI screening, utilizing soil-relevant, ecophysiologically and phylogenetically diverse AOB (Nitrosospira multiformis, Nitrosomonas ureae, Nitrosomonas communis) and ammonia-oxidizing archaea (AOA) strains (Nitrososphaera viennensis,“Ca. Nitrosocosmicus franklandianus”), achieving consistent cellular activity and density. The assay was validated with established SNIs and BNIs, showing differences in inhibition efficacy and strain sensitivity, consistent with literature. As a proof of concept, root exudates from diverse wheat genotypes were screened, demonstrating distinct inhibition profiles. The proposed system advances previously available screening systems and, when integrated with realistic soil tests, will facilitate the discovery of novel BNIs and BNI-producing plant genotypes.
Improving AlphaFold 3 structural modeling by incorporating explicit crosslinks
Authors: Kosinski Jan
Published: December 2024

AlphaFold 3 has significantly advanced the modeling of macromolecular structures, including proteins, DNA, RNA, and their interactions with small molecules or post-translational modifications. However, challenges remain when modeling specific structural conformations or complexes with limited evolutionary data, such as protein-antibody complexes. Previous studies with AlphaFold2 demonstrated that adding distance restraints from crosslinking mass spectrometry (XL-MS) can improve predictions for such cases. In this study, we investigate whether XL-MS restraints can be incorporated into AlphaFold 3 by explicitly modeling crosslinks as covalently-bound ligands. Our results show that this approach is able to increase the accuracy of AlphaFold 3 models. We explore the opportunities and limitations of this method, which has been implemented as a proof-of-concept pipeline named AlphaFold 3x, available athttps://github.com/KosinskiLab/alphafold3x.
CBAM-ResNet34-based classification and evaluation method for developmental processes of greenhouse strawberries
Authors: Wang Jianxu , Liang Zhongyue , Jiang Fengan , Feng Jian , Xiao Yuyang , Yang Ming , Wang Deguang
Published: December 2024

Strawberries, known for their economic significance and rich nutritional value, are cultivated extensively worldwide. However, a host of workers need to be employed every year to identify and categorize the developmental stages of the strawberries in the greenhouses, which is not only time-consuming, inefficient, increasing the cultivation cost, but also difficult to guarantee the classification accuracy. Meanwhile, affected by the complicated background, occlusions, and color interference, the features of strawberries are proven challenging to be extracted via the traditional neural networks due to serious gradient disappearance. Therefore, an improved CBAM-ResNet34- based classification evaluation method for developmental processes of greenhouse strawberries is investigated. The procedure of this method is as follows: firstly, the developmental stages of greenhouse strawberries are classified by experts into four stages: Stage I (initial stage), Stage II (green and white fruit stage), Stage III (early ripening stage), and Stage IV (fully ripe stage). The 627, 640, 604, and 340 strawberry images for these four stages are captured. Subsequently, the images are divided into training, validation, as well as testing sets and then undergo image pre- processing, expansion, and augmentation. Whereafter, the 7×7 convolution kernel in the first layer of the network is replaced by three consecutive 3×3 convolution cores to eliminate the redundant weights and unnecessary model parameters, and the BasicBlocks configuration is adjusted. Finally, the CBAM attention mechanism is added to each BasicBlock so as to pinpoint the spatial position of the strawberries and extract their major features such as shape, size, and color. Comparison experiments with the conventional deep neural networks LeNet5, AlexNet, VGG16, ResNet18, ResNet34, and every improved part of CBAM-ResNet34 demonstrated that when the learning rate is 0.001, the Dropout rate is 0.3, and the Adam’s weight decay parameter is 0.001, the accuracies for validation and testing sets can reach to 92.36% and 87.56% with F1 scores of 0.92, 0.87, 0.85 and 0.88.
Microglia undergoes chemokine receptor, CX3CR1-mediated internalization of extracellular Tau
Authors: Chidambaram Hariharakrishnan , Desale Smita Eknath , Suri Kapali , Murugan N Arul , Chinnathambi Subashchandrabose
Published: December 2024

In Alzheimer’s disease, the microtubule-associated protein, Tau misfolds to form aggregates and filaments in the intra- and extracellular region of neuronal cells. CX3CR1 receptor is involved in monomeric Tau internalization by directly binding to the receptor. In our study, we are interested in understanding the interaction of different pathological structures of Tau with microglial chemokine receptor, CX3CR1 and its role in CX3CR1-mediated Tau internalization by immunofluorescence assay. Co-immunoprecipitation further confirmed the receptor interaction with Tau oligomers and even aggregated filaments. We next determined the role of Tau as a chemoattractant in regulating the migration of microglia by wound healing assay. Further, immunolocalization studies of CX3CR1 with β-arrestin proved the desensitization of CX3CR1 receptor upon Tau binding. Upon ligand interaction, GPCRs undergoes desensitization and encytosed to the cytosol. We have quantified the CX3CR1 internalization by measuring the membrane to cytosol intensity ratio of CX3CR1 receptor upon extracellular Tau exposure. In addition to experimental assays, a comprehensive analysis of the interaction between the CX3CR1 receptor, the Tau protein, and the AZD8797 ligand has been derived from the combined molecular docking, molecular dynamics and free energy calculations using molecular mechanics-generalized Born approach. In particular, two different molecular dynamics simulations were carried out for CX3CR1-Tau protein and AZD8797-bound CX3CR1-Tau protein interaction. The molecular modeling study establishes that AZD8797 binds to CX3CR1 receptor and modulates the Tau interaction with the receptor.
Observation of Cartesian light propagation through a three-dimensional cavity superlattice in a silicon photonic band gap crystal
Authors: Adhikary Manashee , Kozoň Marek , Uppu Ravitej , Vos Willem L.
Published: December 2024

We experimentally investigate peculiar light propagation inside a three-dimensional (3D) superlattice of resonant cavities that are confined within a 3D photonic band gap. To this end, we fabricated 3D diamondlike photonic crystals from silicon with a broad 3D band gap in the near-infrared and doped them with a periodic array of point defects. In position-resolved reflectivity and scattering microscopy, we observe narrow spectral features that match well with superlattice bands in band structures computed with the plane-wave expansion. The cavities are coupled in all three dimensions when they are closely spaced (aSL≤3a), and uncoupled when they are further apart. The superlattice bands correspond to light that hops in high-symmetry directions in 3D (“Cartesian light”) that opens applications in 3D photonic networks, 3D Anderson localization of light, and future 3D quantum photonic networks.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Enhancing future educators’ skills through art museum volunteering: insights from Chinese higher education
Authors: Li Chenglin , Li Jian
Published: December 2024

Purpose

The research explores how these volunteering experiences in Chinese art museums influence students’ future teaching careers and employability.

Design/methodology/approach

Our study delves into the educational value of art museum volunteering for higher education students, focussing particularly on those majoring in elementary education. Utilising a triangulation methodology that includes questionnaires, in-depth interviews, and observations, we collected data from 30 art museums across 17 provinces in China. Our research aims to understand how these volunteering experiences influence students’ future teaching careers and employability.

Findings

The study examines the types of educational activities offered, the art education experiences gained and the impact on students’ skills. The findings suggest that volunteering enhances students’ practical skills in art education, creativity, critical thinking, cultural understanding and employability, contributing positively to their future educator roles. The findings highlight the importance of partnerships between museums and higher education institutions to improve the quality of art education and the professional preparation of future educators.

Research limitations/implications

We identified some limitations. Because the period of investigation for this study was limited to a recent year, the unique strategies and techniques for conducting educational practices varied from museum to museum, resulting in different barriers and opportunities for improvement for volunteers. This study did not conduct a detailed analysis of gender- and region-specific differences, nor did it include interviews with museum educators and educational program spokespersons or an analysis of their opinions.

Originality/value

Our research fills a notable gap in the existing literature by focussing on the Asian context and underscores the importance of collaborative efforts between museums and higher education institutions.
Understanding the motivational predictors of students’ persistence in work placement learning tasks
Authors: Ogbaekirigwe Charles O. , Ubah Ifeoma M.B. , Azubuike Amarachi Salome , Igwe Udodirim Angela , Okolie Ugochukwu Chinonso
Published: December 2024

Purpose

This study examines how and whether expectancy for success and task values influence students’ persistence in work placement learning tasks (persistence). Also, it examines the mediating role of task values in the expectancy for success and students’ persistence nexus.

Design/methodology/approach

This is a two-study finding. In Study 1, we conducted qualitative research using a sample of 21 undergraduate students undertaking work placement learning in seven firms in Nigeria to gain an in-depth understanding of how the two expectancy-value theory’s (ETV) core motivational factors (i.e. expectancy for success and task values) enhance students’ performance or achievement-related behaviour such as persistence. In Study 2, we conducted quantitative research employing structural equation modelling to test our proposed hypotheses. We used a sample of 395 undergraduates undertaking work placement learning in 189 Nigerian firms (public and private) to empirically test the hypothesized model.

Findings

The findings show that students who had higher self-confidence that they would succeed in the placement learning tasks and values for the tasks exhibited higher persistence. We found that students with more expectancy for success showed higher task values for their learning tasks. Although not hypothesized, the positive result is necessary and aligns with ETV assumptions. Lastly, the analysis showed that students’ higher persistence was not wholly due to their higher expectancies for success in the placement learning tasks, but rather because they showed higher values for the learning tasks. Theoretical and practical implications are discussed.

Originality/value

Our study progressed the ETV research in the work placement learning context and offers a model of students' persistence in the context of our study. Understanding the important motivational roles of expectancy for success and task values in enhancing students’ persistence is relevant in that it can facilitate quality learning outcomes. From the qualitative and quantitative (our two-study) findings, we made suggestions on how higher education administrators and industries can use our hypothesized model to further improve the work placement learning programme.
Is effective coordination the key to sustainable performance? A probe into integrated e-agri supply chains in India
Authors: Singh Vinay , Agrawal Shivani , Kumar Sachin
Published: December 2024

Purpose

The study aims to assess how e-agri supply chain coordination (SCC), supply chain integration (SCI) and competitive capabilities (COC) impact both market performance (MO) and operational performance (OP). It particularly emphasizes the critical role of information flow for the benefit of farmers, intermediaries and end-consumers, shedding light on the broader implications of these factors within the agricultural supply chain.

Design/methodology/approach

Data are collected online from farmers, intermediaries engaged in buying/supplying agri-products and consumers using a semi-structured questionnaire of 25 items adapted from the extant literature measuring SCC, SCI, COC, OP and MP. The survey instrument is validated for its reliability, convergent and discriminant validity tests. Purposive and convenient sampling is used for data collection. Finally, 280 responses were analyzed using SEM to conclude the study.

Findings

Findings underscore information flow’s significance in the e-agri supply chain, addressing various stakeholders’ needs. Technical excellence, featuring robust transaction capabilities and cost-effective maintenance is pivotal. Enhanced supply chain coordination fosters integration and efficient information sharing, enhancing agricultural market performance and sectoral efficiency.

Research limitations/implications

The study explores technology adoption, understands information flow and coordination impact, enhances efficiencies, empowers farmers and promotes transparency, sustainability and consumer benefits.

Practical implications

The study promotes efficient information flow, digital adoption, collaborative planning, tech investment and enhanced responsiveness for agricultural sector managers.

Social implications

The study bridges the rural-urban divide, empowering farmers, providing fair pricing, sustainable practices, transparency, informed consumers, responsible consumption and income distribution.

Originality/value

The novelty of this study lies in its comprehensive information flow study, new theoretical model and e-agri-specific sub-constructs that define coordination and integration, aiding efficiency and competitiveness.
Experimental investigation of the influence of surface topographic parameters on fluid leakage through static metallic seals
Authors: Shereef Asif Ali , P.B. Dhanish
Published: December 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to monitor leakage in the static sealing interface, using three-dimensional and two-dimensional surface topography parameters as indicators.

Design/methodology/approach

This study involved developing a test rig for examining fluid leakage in metallic seals. Leakage of water through the interface of the metallic valve and valve seats was measured. The analysis focused on the combined effect of roughness, waviness and form error of metallic seal surfaces on leakage, with a detailed emphasis on the significance of form errors through harmonic analysis.

Findings

The findings suggest that three-dimensional or areal surface texture parameters have more predictive control over leakage compared to two-dimensional or profile parameters, as they provide information about micro-leak channels in all directions. Moreover, it was observed that average amplitude parameters of surface topography, particularly the form error of metallic valves, are strongly correlated with leakage values compared with the roughness and waviness of the contact surface. In addition, the leakage in metallic seals is profoundly influenced by lower-order harmonics, with a corresponding increase as the average undulation number of the flatness profile rises.

Originality/value

This research contributes to the understanding of the relationship between surface topography and sealing performance, particularly in metallic seals. By emphasizing the importance of form errors and using advanced surface texture analysis techniques, the study offers insights that can aid in optimizing the design and performance of static seals in industrial applications.

Peer review

The peer review history for this article is available at: https://publons.com/publon/10.1108/ILT-05-2024-0186/
Research on reciprocating sealing performance and leakage rate prediction based on GA-PSO-BPNN hybrid algorithm
Authors: Liu Guozhen , Wang Liu , Liu Chuang , Bai Pengfei , Liu Tieming , Wei Chunping , Yi Zhang
Published: December 2024

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the sealing performance of reciprocating seals under the effect of rubber abrasion using ABAQUS simulation software, and to propose a prediction framework based on a hybrid algorithm (GA-PSO-BPNN) to predict the leakage of reciprocating seals of downhole gauging instrumentation under different working condition parameters.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors combined the UMESHMOTION user program with the improved Archard wear model to investigate reciprocating seal performance. GA and a PSO were proposed as ways to enhance the BPNN’s predictive model.

Findings

The results show that the impact of fluid pressure fluctuations on the wear of the seal lip is more pronounced during the rapid wear phase compared to the steady wear phase. Similarly, variations in compression rate have a greater impact on seal lip wear at different stages of wear. The GA-PSO-BPNN prediction model outperforms the single-prediction model in terms of prediction accuracy.

Originality/value

The authors investigated sealing performance through simulation software and propose a GA-PSO-BPNN-based fault diagnosis method for rotating machinery. To verify the accuracy of the prediction model, a reciprocating sealing test platform for gauge work cylinders is constructed.

Peer review

The peer review history for this article is available at: https://publons.com/publon/10.1108/ILT-08-2024-0293/
A distributed algorithm for the multi-robot minimum time task allocation problem
Authors: Zhang Qing , Wang Yujuan , Cen Ruping
Published: December 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to address the challenge of task allocation in multi-robot systems by getting the minimum overall task completion time and task allocation scheme while also minimizing robot energy consumption. This study aims to move away from traditional centralized methods and validate a more scalable distributed approach.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper proposes a distributed algorithm for the multi-robot task allocation problem, aimed at getting the minimum task completion time along with the task allocation scheme. The algorithm operates based on local interaction information rather than global information. By using the Consensus-Based Auction Algorithm (CBAA), it seeks to effectively minimize energy consumption without affecting the minimum completion time required for overall task allocation.

Findings

The proposed distributed algorithm successfully reduces robot energy consumption while effectively obtaining the shortest overall task completion time and corresponding task allocation scheme. Numerical simulations conducted using MATLAB software demonstrated its superior performance, and empirical testing on the Turtlebot3-Burger robot platform further substantiated these findings.

Originality/value

The original contribution of this study lies in the development of an enhanced distributed task allocation strategy using CBAA to improve efficiency in multi-robot environments. Its value extends to applications that require rapid and resource-aware coordination, such as automated logistics or search-and-rescue operations.
Key determinants of street vendor sales in Dhaka: infrastructure and socioeconomic factors
Authors: Yesmin Nurshad , Calzada Olvera Beatriz
Published: December 2024

Purpose

This research identifies the individual socioeconomic and urban infrastructure attributes that explain the sales performance of informal street vendors in Dhaka, Bangladesh, shedding light on areas where public intervention could enhance informal vendors’ entrepreneurial activities.

Design/methodology/approach

The study employs a quantitative methodology, focusing on two street vending areas in Dhaka: New Market Area and Mirpur-1. Primary data (n = 243) were randomly collected from vendors in these areas. The importance of various attributes was estimated using non-parametric, non-linear methods (random forests and geographical random forests). These results were compared with those obtained from linear multiple regression and Lasso regression models.

Findings

The study shows that having a designated vending spot is the most important attribute associated with higher sales, confirming the critical role of secure vending locations in urban planning policy. Other significant factors include the width of the sidewalk and the level of odors, indicating the role of urban infrastructure on sales performance. Key individual socioeconomic factors include having a bank account and working experience. The initial economic situation, measured by the log of initial capital, also plays a significant role, especially when accounting for spatial heterogeneity.

Originality/value

This research explores the relationship between individual socioeconomic characteristics, urban infrastructure and street vendors' sales performance using advanced machine learning models. Our findings underscore the significance of adequate street vending infrastructure and access to banking services, highlighting critical areas for public policy intervention to support this vital entrepreneurial activity.
Balancing borders: exploring work–life balance and its impact on business performance among women entrepreneurs in the United Arab Emirates
Authors: Tahir Rizwan
Published: December 2024

Purpose

This study aims to explore how achieving a harmonious work–life balance (WLB) can enhance the business performance of women entrepreneurs in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Using border theory as a framework, it investigates the specific challenges and strategies these entrepreneurs use to manage their dual roles in professional and personal domains.

Design/methodology/approach

This qualitative study uses in-depth interviews with 50 women entrepreneurs across various ages, nationalities and business types in the UAE. Purposeful sampling was used to ensure a diverse range of viewpoints.

Findings

The study finds that maintaining a WLB is crucial for the success and growth of women entrepreneurs in the UAE. A balanced work-life leads to higher job satisfaction, improved work quality and increased customer satisfaction, which collectively drive business success. Conversely, a lack of WLB results in stress, burnout and reduced productivity, negatively impacting business outcomes. Thus, WLB is essential for the well-being, efficiency and overall success of women entrepreneurs.

Originality/value

This research extends border theory by examining how women entrepreneurs, a unique workforce segment, balance their professional and personal lives in the UAE’s distinct socio-cultural context. It offers new insights into the challenges and strategies of achieving WLB, highlighting the significant role of family support and technology in this process. The study also underscores the importance of WLB for women’s entrepreneurship, contributing to broader discussions on gender, work–life integration and entrepreneurial success.
Relational risk, knowledge sharing and supply chain resilience: the complementary role of blockchain governance and relational governance
Authors: Pu Guoli , Qiao Weiting
Published: December 2024

Purpose

Given the sudden disruption caused by COVID-19, knowledge sharing between organizations has become a meaningful way to improve supply chain resilience. However, there is still a lack of in-depth research on how to reduce the threat to knowledge sharing caused by increased levels of relational risk. With the emergence of new digital technologies, whether blockchain governance can control relational risk and replace traditional relational governance remains to be demonstrated.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses a cross-sectional survey approach in which quantitative data are collected from 300 participants from Chinese manufacturing enterprises to test the hypotheses.

Findings

The results show that relational and blockchain governance can significantly and complementarily reduce the level of relational risk in knowledge sharing. When the relational risk is at a low, medium or high level, the best matches of relational and blockchain governance are low-level relational governance–low-level blockchain governance, high-level relational governance–low-level blockchain governance and high-level relational governance–high-level blockchain governance, respectively.

Practical implications

The findings of this study have important practical implications for manufacturing enterprises in terms of how to choose reasonable governance modes to manage relational risk behaviour according to different relational risk levels to better understand the positive role of knowledge sharing in supply chain resilience.

Originality/value

The antecedent variables of knowledge sharing in previous studies are based on transaction cost theory or relational theory and have not moved beyond the original theoretical framework. This paper addresses this limitation, puts knowledge sharing in the academic context of digital technology, considers blockchain governance into the process of relational risk-knowledge sharing and defines blockchain governance, which is a novel approach in the supply chain resilience management literature.
Erosion of behavioural plasticity and pace‐of‐life shifts under multigenerational pharmaceutical pollution
Authors: Gasparini Clelia
Published: December 2024

Research Highlight: Aich, U., Polverino, G., Yazdan Parast, F., Melo, G. C., Tan, H., Howells, J., Nosrati, R., & Wong, B. B. M. (2024). Long‐term effects of widespread pharmaceutical pollution on trade‐offs between behavioural, life history and reproductive traits in fish. Journal of Animal Ecology. https://doi.org/10.1111/1365‐2656.14152. Pharmaceutical pollutants are increasingly common in aquatic ecosystems, and organisms living there are the unintended targets of these compounds, originally designed for humans. However, our understanding of these effects remains limited. In a recent study, Aich et al. (2024) investigated the effects of fluoxetine on a small freshwater fish, the guppy (Poecilia reticulata), with particular emphasis on behaviour. The authors found that, after multigenerational exposure to ecologically relevant concentrations of this compound, there was minimal impact on average behavioural traits at the population level. However, fluoxetine exposure reduced within‐individual behavioural plasticity and altered the delicate equilibrium among these traits. These findings could have far‐reaching evolutionary implications for how individuals and populations may respond to environmental changes and highlight the need for behavioural ecotoxicology to move beyond population‐level effects. This research provides valuable insights into the subtle and multifaceted—yet profound—impacts of pollutants on ecological and evolutionary processes, highlighting the importance of studying behavioural responses at the individual level to predict how populations will respond to our rapidly changing world.
Nutrient availability explains distinct soil fungal colonization of angiosperm versus gymnosperm wood
Authors: Zhao Zhuqi , Hu Zhenhong , Yang Teng , Xu Zhiyuan , Bai Zhenyin , Sayer Emma J.
Published: December 2024

Soil fungi play an essential role in the fungal colonization of deadwood, with consequences for multiple ecosystem functions such as wood decomposition. Nutrient deposition can substantially affect fungal activity, but it is unclear how external nutrient inputs and host plant nutrient content interact to influence soil fungal colonization of deadwood.

To advance understanding of fungal dynamics during deadwood decomposition, we conducted a field experiment with eight tree species (four angiosperms and four gymnosperms) under four nutrient additions (no nutrient addition, nitrogen (N)‐addition, phosphorus (P)‐addition and combined N‐ and P‐addition), to investigate fungal colonization and communities in different host plant clades (angiosperms and gymnosperms) over 3 years.

The study revealed that host plant clade and nutrient availability interact significantly, which strongly influenced soil fungal colonization of deadwood. The percentage of shared fungi (present in both soil and deadwood) was higher in angiosperms (38.1%–47.3%) than in gymnosperms (26.5%–36.5%). Saprotrophs were the dominant functional group in the shared fungal community, with symbiotrophs as the next most abundant group, and the dominant fungal taxa were mainly K‐strategists, which were more abundant in gymnosperms than in angiosperms. Notably, there was a stronger connection between soil fungi and deadwood fungi in gymnosperms compared to angiosperms, which was likely related to the importance of K‐strategist fungi for decomposing wood with low nutrient content.

Overall, the shared fungal community in angiosperms was more sensitive to nutrient addition than in gymnosperms, resulting in greater changes to fungal taxa and functional groups. In angiosperm wood, N‐addition significantly increased α‐diversity but decreased β‐diversity of the shared fungal community, indicating N‐limitation. In gymnosperm wood, P‐addition significantly reduced both α‐diversity and β‐diversity of the shared fungal community, indicating P‐limitation.

Synthesis. Our study demonstrates the divergent effect of nutrient addition on fungal colonization in angiosperms versus gymnosperms. Considering interactions between inherent plant traits and exogenous nutrient availabilities thus provides a more comprehensive understanding of the association between soil fungi and deadwood fungi during wood decomposition.
Pain Phenotypes in Endometriosis: A Population‐Based Study Using Latent Class Analysis
Authors: Kanti Fleur Serge , Allard Valérie , Métivier Andrée‐Ann , Lemyre Madeleine , Arendas Kristina , Maheux‐Lacroix Sarah
Published: December 2024

Objective

To identify pain phenotypes in patients with endometriosis and investigate their associations with demographics, clinical characteristics, comorbidities and pain‐related quality of life (QoL).

Design

Cross‐sectional, single‐centre, population‐based study.

Setting

Referral university centre in Quebec City, Canada.

Population

Patients diagnosed with endometriosis were enrolled consecutively between January 2020 and April 2024.

Methods

Latent class analysis was used to identify pain phenotypes. A three‐step approach of latent class analysis, involving logistic regression models, was applied to assess the associations between pain phenotypes and demographics, clinical characteristics, comorbidities and pain‐related QoL.

Main Outcome Measures

Pain phenotypes; demographic, clinical and comorbidity predictors of phenotype membership; association between QoL and pain phenotypes.

Results

A total of 352 patients were included. Two pain phenotypes were identified with distinct clinical presentations: one (54% of the participants) with more severe and frequent pain symptoms and poorer QoL and the other (46% of the participants) with mild and less frequent pain symptoms. The high pain phenotype was associated with previous treatment failure, painkiller use, familial history of endometriosis, low annual family income and comorbidities, including painful bladder, fibromyalgia, migraines, lower back pain, irritable bowel syndrome, anxiety and depression or mood disorders. The presence of endometrioma was associated with the low pain phenotype. Phenotype membership was associated with distinct QoL profiles (p < 0.001). The mean QoL score was higher in the high pain phenotype (59; 95% CI, 56–62) than in the low pain phenotype (33; 95% CI, 29–37).

Conclusion

Patients with endometriosis can be categorised into two distinct phenotypes that correlate with QoL and patient characteristics. Validation in other populations is necessary and could aid the development of specialised or personalised interventions.
Report of forensically relevant insects collected from pig and rabbit remains during two forensic entomology workshops in Eastern Massachusetts
Authors: Sawyer Samantha J.
Published: December 2024

Forensic entomology relies on known geographic ranges and seasonal presence of forensically relevant insects. In the Northeastern United States, there is no information on species in the region in early spring. Two forensic entomology workshops took place in April of 2023 and 2024 in Milton, Massachusetts. During this workshop, practitioners were trained in the appropriate collection and storage techniques prior to a practical experience including the collection of insects from pig and rabbit remains. All insects collected were identified down to family or species level. Across both years, Phormia regina (Meigen) (Diptera: Calliphoridae) was the fly consistently colonizing remains and was the oldest immature larvae in all instances. Calliphora vicina (Robineau‐Desvoidy) (Diptera: Calliphoridae), Protophormia terraenovae (Robineau‐Desvoidy) (Diptera: Calliphoridae), and Muscina stabulans (Fallén) (Diptera: Muscidae) were additional flies co‐colonizing remains with P. regina. Other species were found as adults surrounding the remains that included other necrophagous fly species, beetles, and ants. Variation in insects collected between years likely due to high temperature variation. This documentation of species provides context to forensically related flies expected in Eastern Massachusetts and provides research directives in the region.
Review article: Evaluating the effectiveness of arterial pressure point techniques as a first aid method for external haemorrhage control: A systematic review
Authors: Rodgers Zoe Jane , Bejmert Karolina , Chung Tiani , Furness James , Abery Philip , Kemp‐Smith Kevin , Taylor Nicholas , Bruce Kimberley Casey , Snelling Peter James
Published: December 2024

The current ANZCOR guidelines for first aid management of life‐threatening bleeding from a limb, where bleeding cannot be controlled with direct pressure, recommends the use of an arterial tourniquet. However, tourniquets required specialised training and equipment, which may not be accessible in all emergencies. This systematic review evaluated the effectiveness of arterial pressure point techniques (APPT) as a first aid measure for controlling life‐threatening, non‐compressible bleeding from limbs and anatomical junctions. A comprehensive literature search was conducted following the PRISMA guidelines. The search was used in five databases: PubMed, CINAHL, SportDiscuss, Proquest Central and Embase. Eligible studies included adult participants in and out of hospital settings, focusing on extremities and junctional areas. Studies assessing APPT alone or compared with other first aid techniques were included. The review included nine quasi‐experimental articles, with eight having low levels of evidence. Although most reported high success rates (87.5–100%) for APPT achieving blood flow cessation, its effectiveness compared to alternative methods, such as arterial tourniquets, remains inconclusive because of methodological heterogeneity and differing success benchmarks. APPT shows promise in external haemorrhage control. Additional research with higher levels of evidence, standardised protocols and larger sample sizes is needed. Investigation in real‐world scenarios is crucial to compare methods like tourniquets. Future research will determine APPT's effectiveness and its potential role as a bridging technique before tourniquet application or medical assistance.
Postoperative pain management in patients with preexisting opioid dependence—A scoping review protocol
Authors: Svensson Nikoline , Henriksen Magnus Grønbæk , Møller Ann Merete
Published: December 2024

Background

Opioid‐dependent patients with chronic pain conditions present a significant challenge for anesthesiologists when managing acute postsurgical pain. Opioid‐dependent patients can experience tolerance, physical dependence, and hyperalgesia. These patients have an increased risk of poorly managed acute postoperative pain, which can ultimately lead to suffering and potentially an overall increase in length of hospitalization and healthcare cost. However, this is an under‐researched field. This scoping review aims to investigate effective strategies in managing postoperative pain in patients with preexisting opioid dependence.

Methods

A scoping review will be conducted on postoperative pain management in patients with preexisting opioid dependence. This review will be prepared according to the JBI methodology for scoping reviews and to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses extension for scoping reviews (PRISMA‐ScR). We will conduct a comprehensive search across multiple databases. Backward citation searching of the final included articles will also be conducted. Data extraction will include trial and participant characteristics, intervention details, and reported outcomes.

Results

In the final review the results will be presented as a descriptive summary with supplementary tables, figures, and graphs where applicable.

Conclusion

The planned scoping review will map out the current evidence about effective strategies to manage postoperative pain in patients with preexisting opioid dependence. We will aim to identify research gaps that can be used as support in the development of further research.
Low sexually transmitted infection (STI) screening and presumptive treatment and high STI positivity among United States females visiting the emergency department after sexual assault
Authors: Tao Guoyu , Patel Chirag G. , Stanford Kimberly A.
Published: December 2024

Objective

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention sexually transmitted infection (STI) treatment guidelines state that the decision to provide STI/human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) testing and presumptive treatment after sexual assault (SA) should be made on an individual basis to minimize retraumatization of the patient. However, little is known about STI screening, presumptive treatment, and positivity in the emergency department (ED) setting. The objective of this study was to evaluate STI testing rates and positivity, presumptive gonorrhea and chlamydia treatment, pregnancy testing, and emergency contraception offered to SA survivors in the ED in the United States.

Methods

The Premier Healthcare Database, a national administrative data set containing health care information from inpatient and hospital‐based outpatient encounters, was used. Approximately 30% of encounters have available laboratory test results. ED visits for SA (identified by ICD‐10‐CM codes) among female patients aged 15–44 years between 2019 and 2023 were included. For patients presenting multiple times to the ED, only the first ED visit after SA was included.

Results

Of 49,047 total visits where females ages 15–44 years presented to the ED for SA, chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, and HIV tests were conducted in 18.6%, 18.6%, 13.4%, and 16.9%, respectively, and pregnancy tests in 33.1% of visits. Presumptive gonorrhea and chlamydia treatment was provided in 53.7% and 52.2%, respectively, and emergency contraception in 27.2% of visits. Approximately 40% of patients were neither tested nor treated for either chlamydia or gonorrhea. Of patients with available laboratory test results, chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis positivity rates were 10.0%, 3.8%, and 1.0%, respectively.

Conclusions

Low STI testing and treatment rates and high STI positivity identified in this study suggest that an important opportunity exists for improving STI screening and presumptive treatment for female patients presenting to the ED after SA.
Three‐Dimensional Morphometric Analysis of the Metatarsal and Phalangeal Bones in Van Cats
Authors: Yilmaz Osman , Koçyiğit Ali , Kirbaş Doğan Gülseren , Kanik Betül
Published: December 2024

The aim of this study was to perform three‐dimensional reconstruction of the metatarsal and phalangeal bones using computed tomography, to obtain osteometric data and to determine biometric differences in terms of sexual dimorphism in the obtained measurements in Van cats, an endemic species living in the Van province region of eastern Türkiye and named after this region. Computed tomography images of a total of 16 adult and healthy Van cats, eight females and eight males, were used in the study. Three‐dimensional modelling of the images and osteometric measurements were obtained using MIMICS 20.1 software. When the osteometric data of the bones were analysed, it was observed that all of the morphometric measurements of metatarsal, phalanx media, phalanx distalis and phalanx proximalis bones, except the greatest breadth of the distal end of the phanax proximalis‐III, the greatest breadth of the proximal end of the right phalanx proximalis‐II, left phalanx proximalis‐IV and left phalanx proximalis‐V, were higher in male cats than females. The length order of the metatarsal bones in Van cats was found as IV, III, V and II, respectively. It was determined that there were positive and significant correlations between the osteometric measurement parameters of metatarsal and phalangeal bones with age and body weight. In conclusion, basic morphological images and osteometric data of the metatarsal and phalangeal bones in Van cats were obtained. These findings will be valuable for studying anatomy, aiding veterinary medicine students in clinical practice and contributing to the fields of zooarchaeology and veterinary forensic anthropology.
Morphological Analysis of the Digestive Tract of Cockatiels (Nymphicus hollandicus)—Oesophagus to Colorectum
Authors: Marques A. L. R. , Oliveira I. J. , Mamgue V. E. , Perin R. L. , Silva L. E. , Gruchouskei L. , Gonçalves G. F. , Romagnolli P.
Published: December 2024

Cockatiels (Nymphicus hollandicus) are birds present in several countries, commonly kept as pets and, therefore, are frequently encountered as patients in veterinary hospitals. Knowledge of the morphology of the cockatiel's digestive tract is essential for understanding its digestive problems and clinical care. The objective of this study is to describe the digestive tract morphology of these birds. Six cockatiels were dissected and all parts of the digestive tract were measured and processed for histological analysis. The measured data were highly variable for some parts. The oesophagus is divided into a cervical part with the ingluvies (crop) and celomic portion. Mucosal folds and a stratified non‐cornified epithelium in the oesophagus and ingluvies were observed. No oesophageal glands were observed in the cervical portion and ingluvies, however, in the celomic portion submucosal glands were abundant. The cockatiel's stomach is subdivided into a glandular and a muscular part. The glandular stomach has a simple columnar epithelium with PAS+ cells and gastric glands. The muscular stomach exhibits a gastric cuticle, and simple columnar epithelium with branched tubular glands, and its muscular layers are organised in inner circular and outer longitudinal bundles. The intestine of cockatiels is subdivided in the small intestine with duodenum, jejunum, ileum and the short large intestine is represented by the colorectum. The Tunica mucosa of the small intestine forms villi lined with simple columnar epithelium with goblet cells. Simple tubular glands extend into the lamina propria mucosae. The wall of the large intestine contains simple tubular glands and a circular and thin layer of smooth muscles. Despite the absence of lymph nodes, there are numerous lymphocytes in the lamina propria. The digestive tract and histological characteristics observed are consistent with other avian species, however, well‐defined species‐specific particularities were observed.