bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Structural characterization of pyruvic oxime dioxygenase, a key enzyme in heterotrophic nitrification
Authors: Tsujino Shuhei , Yamada Yusuke , Senda Miki , Nakamura Akihiko , Senda Toshiya , Fujiwara Taketomo
Published: January 2025

Nitrification by heterotrophic microorganisms is an important part of the nitrogen cycle in the environment. The enzyme responsible for the core function of heterotrophic nitrification is pyruvic oxime dioxygenase (POD). POD is a non-heme, Fe(II)-dependent enzyme that catalyzes the dioxygenation of pyruvic oxime to produce pyruvate and nitrite. To analyze the catalytic mechanism of POD, the crystal structure of POD from
Alcaligenes faecalis
(AfPOD) was determined at 1.76 Å resolution. The enzyme is a homotetramer, and the subunit structure is homologous to those of class II aldolases, in particular, a zinc-dependent L-fuculose-1-phosphate aldolase. The active site of the subunit is located at the bottom of a cleft formed with an adjacent subunit. The iron ion at the active site is coordinated by three histidines and three water molecules in an octahedral geometry. The putative oxygen tunnel was connected between the active site and the central cavity of the tetramer. The N-terminal region of AfPOD, which is essential for catalytic activity, is disordered in the crystal. Structure prediction with AlphaFold2 combined with mutational experiments suggested that the disordered N-terminal region adopts an α-helix conformation and participates in the formation of the active site. The catalytic mechanism of the dioxygenase reaction by POD is discussed on the basis of the molecular docking model.

IMPORTANCE

Our knowledge of nitrification has increased considerably in recent decades with the discovery of new nitrifying microorganisms and the characterization of their biochemical processes. Some heterotrophic bacteria and fungi are known to show nitrification activities, but the molecular mechanisms have been poorly understood. Here, we performed a structural characterization of pyruvic oxime dioxygenase (POD), a key enzyme in heterotrophic nitrification that produces nitrite from ammonia using pyruvic oxime as an intermediate. Structural and enzymatic analyses revealed that POD is a unique dioxygenase with features such as an aldolase backbone, an N-terminal α-helix, and an oxygen tunnel. Our results provide insights not only into the molecular mechanisms but also into the design of specific inhibitors of heterotrophic nitrification.
Transmission of unfolded protein response—a regulator of disease progression, severity, and spread in virus infections
Authors: Prasad Vibhu
Published: January 2025

The unfolded protein response (UPR) is a cell-autonomous stress response aimed at restoring homeostasis due to the accumulation of misfolded proteins in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). Viruses often hijack the host cell machinery, leading to an accumulation of misfolded proteins in the ER. The cell-autonomous UPR is the immediate response of an infected cell to this stress, aiming to restore normal function by halting protein translation, degrading misfolded proteins, and activating signaling pathways that increase the production of molecular chaperones. The cell-non-autonomous UPR involves the spreading of UPR signals from initially stressed cells to neighboring unstressed cells that lack the stressor. Though viruses are known modulators of cell-autonomous UPR, recent advancements have highlighted that cell-non-autonomous UPR plays a critical role in elucidating how local infections cause systemic effects, thereby contributing to disease symptoms and progression. Additionally, by utilizing cell-non-autonomous UPR, viruses have devised novel strategies to establish a pro-viral state, promoting virus spread. This review discusses examples that have broadened the understanding of the role of UPR in virus infections and disease progression by looking beyond cell-autonomous to non-autonomous processes and mechanistic details of the inducers, spreaders, and receivers of UPR signals.
Complete genome of a fluorescent
Pseudomonas
sp. isolated from a PFAS groundwater treatment site
Authors: Baker Isabel R. , Colston Sophie M. , Hervey Judson , Eddie Brian J. , Bird Lina J.
Published: January 2025

Pseudomonas
sp. CBR-F is a bacterial species isolated from a water treatment plant targeting for per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances, a difficult-to-degrade family of anthropogenic compounds. Here, we report a complete genome for
Pseudomonas
sp. CBR-F, sequenced with Oxford Nanopore Technology. The genome consists of one 6.91 Mbp chromosome.
Two coding-complete genomes of porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus 2 (PRRSV-2) from field clinical samples in the Philippines
Authors: Montecillo Andrew , Ferrer Jimwel Bryan Christopher , Baybay Zyne , Balmes Ruffa Maze , Falconite-Cudal Roselle , Alba Mary Grace , Fabros Karl Alexander , Dela Paz Timothy James , Villegas Lucille C. , Cariaso Wreahlen , Pantua Homer
Published: January 2025

We report two coding-complete genome sequences of porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus 2 from field clinical samples obtained in 2021 (BA2021012A) and 2023 (ME20230008B-2) from the Philippines. BA2021012A (15,388 bp) is classified as a lineage L8C strain while ME20230008B-2 (15,513 bp) is a vaccine-like strain in lineage L7.
Cooling perspectives on the risk of pathogenic viruses from thawing permafrost
Authors: Mackelprang Rachel , Barbato Robyn A. , Ramey Andrew M. , Schütte Ursel M. E. , Waldrop Mark P.
Published: January 2025

Climate change is inducing wide-scale permafrost thaw in the Arctic and subarctic, triggering concerns that long-dormant pathogens could reemerge from the thawing ground and initiate epidemics or pandemics. Viruses, as opposed to bacterial pathogens, garner particular interest because outbreaks cannot be controlled with antibiotics, though the effects can be mitigated by vaccines and newer antiviral drugs. To evaluate the potential hazards posed by viral pathogens emerging from thawing permafrost, we review information from a diverse range of disciplines. This includes efforts to recover infectious virus from human remains, studies on disease occurrence in polar animal populations, investigations into viral persistence and infectivity in permafrost, and assessments of human exposure to the enormous viral diversity present in the environment. Based on currently available knowledge, we conclude that the risk posed by viruses from thawing permafrost is no greater than viruses in other environments such as temperate soils and aquatic systems.
Targeted sequencing of
Enterobacterales
bacteria using CRISPR-Cas9 enrichment and Oxford Nanopore Technologies
Authors: Cottingham Hugh , Judd Louise M. , Wisniewski Jessica A. , Wick Ryan R. , Stanton Thomas D. , Vezina Ben , Macesic Nenad , Peleg Anton Y. , Okeke Iruka N. , Holt Kathryn E. , Hawkey Jane
Published: January 2025

Sequencing DNA directly from patient samples enables faster pathogen characterization compared to traditional culture-based approaches, but often yields insufficient sequence data for effective downstream analysis. CRISPR-Cas9 enrichment is designed to improve the yield of low abundance sequences but has not been thoroughly explored with Oxford Nanopore Technologies (ONT) for use in clinical bacterial epidemiology. We designed CRISPR-Cas9 guide RNAs to enrich the human pathogen
Klebsiella pneumoniae
, by targeting multi-locus sequence type (MLST) and transfer RNA (tRNA) genes, as well as common antimicrobial resistance (AMR) genes and the resistance-associated integron gene
intI1
. We validated enrichment performance in 20
K
.
pneumoniae
isolates, finding that guides generated successful enrichment across all conserved sites except for one AMR gene in two isolates. Enrichment of MLST genes led to a correct allele call in all seven loci for 8 out of 10 isolates that had depth of 30× or more in these regions. We then compared enriched and unenriched sequencing of three human fecal samples spiked with
K. pneumoniae
at varying abundance. Enriched sequencing generated 56× and 11.3× the number of AMR and MLST reads, respectively, compared to unenriched sequencing, and required approximately one-third of the computational storage space. Targeting the
intI1
gene often led to detection of 10–20 proximal resistance genes due to the long reads produced by ONT sequencing. We demonstrated that CRISPR-Cas9 enrichment combined with ONT sequencing enabled improved genomic characterization outcomes over unenriched sequencing of patient samples. This method could be used to inform infection control strategies by identifying patients colonized with high-risk strains.

IMPORTANCE

Understanding bacteria in complex samples can be challenging due to their low abundance, which often results in insufficient data for analysis. To improve the detection of harmful bacteria, we implemented a technique aimed at increasing the amount of data from target pathogens when combined with modern DNA sequencing technologies. Our technique uses CRISPR-Cas9 to target specific gene sequences in the bacterial pathogen
Klebsiella pneumoniae
and improve recovery from human stool samples. We found our enrichment method to significantly outperform traditional methods, generating far more data originating from our target genes. Additionally, we developed new computational techniques to further enhance the analysis, providing a thorough method for characterizing pathogens from complex biological samples.
Optogenetic control of horizontally acquired genes prevent stuck fermentations in yeast
Authors: Figueroa David , Ruiz Diego , Tellini Nicolò , De Chiara Matteo , Kessi-Pérez Eduardo I. , Martínez Claudio , Liti Gianni , Querol Amparo , Guillamón José M. , Salinas Francisco
Published: January 2025

Nitrogen limitations in the grape must be the main cause of stuck fermentations during the winemaking process. In
Saccharomyces cerevisiae
, a genetic segment known as region A, which harbors 12 protein-coding genes, was acquired horizontally from a phylogenetically distant yeast species. This region is mainly present in the genome of wine yeast strains, carrying genes that have been associated with nitrogen utilization. Despite the putative importance of region A in yeast fermentation, its contribution to the fermentative process is largely unknown. In this work, we used a wine yeast strain to evaluate the contribution of region A to the fermentation process. To do this, we first sequenced the genome of the wine yeast strain using long-read sequencing and determined that region A is present in a single copy. We then implemented an optogenetic system in this wine yeast strain to precisely regulate the expression of each gene, generating a collection of 12 strains that allow for light-activated gene expression. To evaluate the role of these genes during fermentation, we assayed this collection using microculture and fermentation experiments in synthetic must with varying amounts of nitrogen concentration. Our results show that changes in gene expression for genes within this region can impact growth parameters and fermentation rate. We additionally found that the expression of various genes in region A is necessary to complete the fermentation process and prevent stuck fermentations under low nitrogen conditions. Altogether, our optogenetics-based approach demonstrates the importance of region A in completing fermentation under nitrogen-limited conditions.

IMPORTANCE

Stuck fermentations due to limited nitrogen availability in grape must represent one of the main problems in the winemaking industry. Nitrogen limitation in grape must reduces yeast biomass and fermentation rate, resulting in incomplete fermentations with high levels of residual sugar, undesired by-products, and microbiological instability. Here, we used an optogenetic approach to demonstrate that expression of genes within region A is necessary to complete fermentations under low nitrogen availability. Overall, our results suggest that region A is a genetic signature for adaptation to low nitrogen conditions.
Heavy mineral provenance and paleomagnetic studies of Mesozoic rocks in the Gold Beach terrane, southwestern Oregon, USA
Authors: Boudreau Ericka M. , Gaschnig Richard M. , Vervoort Jeffrey D. , Schwartz Joshua J. , Housen Bernard , Tikoff Basil
Published: January 2025

We present detrital mineral and paleomagnetic data from the Gold Beach terrane of southwestern Oregon, USA, that supports its large-magnitude northward translation along the North American margin in the Late Cretaceous. Detrital zircon and titanite were gathered from Late Jurassic−Late Cretaceous aged sandstones and indicate a shift in sediment sources over time. Zircon Hf isotopes in Jurassic grains (200−144 Ma) yield positive εHf(i) values (+15 to +6), whereas Late Cretaceous grains (100−90 Ma) have a wide range of values spanning 20 epsilon units (+11 to −12). Trace-element abundances in detrital zircons show increasing U/Yb and Eu/Eu* with decreasing age. Detrital titanite Nd isotopes mimic zircon Hf isotopes and show εNd(i) values ranging from +8 to +1 in Jurassic aged grains and +5 to −9 in Late Cretaceous grains. Gold Beach titanites are primarily of magmatic origin and are derived from felsic sources, while others have trace element chemistry revealing metamorphic sources.

Paleomagnetic results from the Late Cretaceous Houstenaden Creek Formation pass fold tests with a tilt-corrected mean of D = 130°, I = 70°, n = 12, k = 10, and α95 = 14.4°. The directions have a widely streaked distribution along a small-circle path due to local rotations of blocks between sites. The tilt-corrected, inclination-only mean is I = 59°, n = 12, k = 58, α95 = 4.4°, which yields a Late Cretaceous paleolatitude of 41° ± 4°N. Comparing these results with a Late Cretaceous reference for North America shows an expected paleolatitude of 47°N, resulting in an estimate of 750 ± 500 km of displacement and ∼100° of clockwise rotation. This estimate is consistent with detrital mineral results that indicate continentally derived sources in southern California, as well as a western source offshore of the Late Cretaceous North American margin. We conclude that northward translation of the Gold Beach terrane from southernmost California occurred during the Late Cretaceous and that it was near its present location in southwestern Oregon by the Eocene.
Laparoscopic surgery for gallstone ileus
Authors: Barcelona Melden Darrell , Abdalla Sala
Published: January 2025

We present a case of a woman in her 70s who arrived in the emergency department with signs of small-bowel obstruction. CT scanning revealed acute cholecystitis with a cholecystoduodenal fistula, pneumobilia and small-bowel obstruction possibly secondary to gallstone ileus although no radio-opaque gallstones were seen. The patient underwent an emergency operation and intra-operative findings revealed mechanical small-bowel obstruction of the proximal jejunum where a 4×2 x 3 cm gallstone was impacted. A laparoscopic-assisted enterotomy was performed with stone extraction and primary closure. The patient made a full recovery. A planned laparoscopic cholecystectomy and repair of cholecystoduodenal fistula is scheduled on elective basis.
Pulmonary tuberculosis presenting as a hilar mass
Authors: Datta Ananda , Sivasankar Raghavendrun , Mallik Sonali
Published: January 2025

Tuberculosis (TB) is a great mimicker due to its various unusual and atypical presentations. Mass-like lesions in thoracic radiology may raise the suspicion of lung malignancy. A man in his early 50s complained of cough, low-grade fever and dyspnoea. Chest radiograph was suggestive of a right hilar mass. Contrast-enhanced CT of the thorax revealed right perihilar consolidation and mediastinal lymphadenopathy. The lesion was encasing the major vessels, causing luminal narrowing. Flexible bronchoscopy showed multiple mucosal nodules in the right lobar bronchi. Histopathology of the endobronchial biopsy showed chronic inflammatory cell infiltrate, while endobronchial ultrasound-guided fine needle aspiration cytology from mediastinal lymph nodes showed numerous caseating epithelioid cell granulomas. Cartridge-based nucleic acid amplification test of lymph node aspirate detectedMycobacterium tuberculosisthat was not resistant to rifampicin. So, the final diagnosis was pulmonary TB. The man improved with 6 months of standard antituberculosis therapy. This case represents an uncommon radiological presentation of pulmonary TB.
Inequalities in colorectal cancer diagnosis by ethnic group: a population-level study in the English National Health Service
Authors: Birch Rebecca J , Burr Nick E , Taylor John C , Downing Amy , Quirke Phil , Morris Eva J A , Turvill James , Thoufeeq Mo
Published: January 2025

Objective

Studies in the USA examining the relationship between ethnicity and colorectal cancer (CRC) identified significant variation. This study sought to examine the relationship between ethnic group, route to diagnosis, early-onset CRC and stage at diagnosis in the English National Health Service.

Methods

Data from COloRECTal cancer data Repository for all individuals diagnosed with CRC (International Classification of Diseases version 10, C18–C20) between 2012 and 2017. A descriptive analysis of the characteristics of the study population was performed. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to assess the association between ethnicity, route to diagnosis, stage at diagnosis and early-onset CRC.

Results

Early-onset CRC was least common in those in the white ethnic group (5.5% diagnosed <50, vs 17.9% in the Asian, 15.5% in the black and 21.8% in the mixed and multiple ethnic groups, p<0.01). Diagnosis following a 2-week wait referral was significantly less common among individuals from the Asian, black, other and unknown ethnic groups than the white ethnic group (Asian OR 0.84, 95% CI 0.79 to 0.91, black OR 0.86, 95% CI 0.79 to 0.93, other OR 0.81, 95% CI 0.73 to 0.90 and unknown OR 0.70, 95% CI 0.66 to 0.73). The Asian ethnic group had significantly lower odds of emergency diagnosis than the white ethnic group (OR 0.90, 95% CI 0.83 to 0.97). Following adjustment, individuals from the Asian ethnic group were significantly less likely, than their white counterparts, to be diagnosed at stage IV (OR 0.82, 95% CI 0.76 to 0.88).

Conclusion

This study identified different demographic profiles of those diagnosed with CRC between broad ethnic groups, highlighting the need to consider access to diagnostic CRC services in the context of ethnicity.
Effectiveness of implementation of sickle cell disease referral guidelines and other measures in paediatric department at a tertiary hospital in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alathaibi Abdulrhman , Alam Muhammad Matloob , Alghamdi Hamdan , De Asis Jean Barrientos , Bautista Reynan , Aladwani Mansour , Selim Mustafa Mohamed
Published: January 2025

Background

Sickle cell disease (SCD) is an autosomal recessive genetic blood disorder. It affects up to 2.6% of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia population.

Local problem

The paediatric haematology/oncology (PHO) team noticed that 75% of paediatric patients were inappropriately referred to the PHO department. Also, 86% of patients were investigated with unnecessary investigations followed by outpatient haematological clinic visits which cause financial burden to the hospital, job load for medical staff and psychological burden for families.

Methods and interventions

We carried out an initial audit of PHO referrals and requested laboratory tests over a 3-month period (October–December 2022). The PHO team developed a Clinical Pathway Guidelines (CPG), algorithm for early SCD detection and consultation form for suspected patients with SCD. Staff education about the new CPG was done. In addition, a dedicated PHO physician was assigned to map all referrals and provide rapid responses or outpatient department appointment dates for daily consultations and referrals. Furthermore, posters illustrating the algorithm for early SCD detection were printed and distributed to various units.

Results

The percentage of inappropriately referred patients improved during the three-quarters to reach above the desired target of 10%. This per cent reached 0% by the end of Q3 September 2023, indicating a sustainable improvement. Also, the per cent of unnecessary laboratory tests decreased from 86% before starting the project to 0% by the end of Q3. Finally, the number of wrong outpatient haematology visits decreased from 2 to 4 visits/week to 0 visits.

Conclusions

Staff education and adherence to guidelines are major priorities for the implementation of SCD referral guidelines in the paediatric department. This improves the utilisation of hospital resources, decreases the staff workload, hospital costs for unnecessary investigations and enhances the psychological care for families of patients with SCD.
Building relational well-being: empowering street-connected young people to transition from precarity to security through youth associations
Authors: McAlpine Kate , Cooper Isabel , Dennis Raphael
Published: January 2025

Street-connected young people (SCYP) in Tanzania face intersecting challenges, including economic vulnerability, social marginalisation and limited access to supportive networks. This study examines the impact of the Youth Association (YA) model, implemented by Railway Children Africa, and does so through the lens of the relational well-being approach, which emphasises the interplay of material, relational and subjective dimensions of well-being, as well as personal, societal and environmental drivers of well-being. Using a mixed methods design, this study tracked 116 SCYP in Mwanza and Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, through four stages of the YA model. Quantitative data revealed gains: 71% transitioned into stable housing, 84% reported increased pride and self-worth and 58% initiated income-generating projects. Qualitative insights provided deeper context, capturing participants’ reflections on how peer networks and leadership opportunities, and vocational training fostered self-confidence, economic independence and community integration. Participants’ recommendations included expanding educational opportunities, enhancing health services and addressing logistical barriers to increase the model’s accessibility and impact. This study demonstrates the transformative potential of relationally driven interventions for vulnerable young people. By leveraging existing networks and prioritising relational support, the YA model offers an effective pathway for SCYP to transition from precarity to stability. The findings underscore the importance of participatory approaches and call for further research into the invisible networks of care supporting SCYP, ensuring that future interventions are responsive to their lived experiences and evolving needs.
Genetic and clinical analysis ofOPTNin amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
Authors: Xiao Yi , Tan Yushan , Li Chunyu , Wei Qianqian , Jiang Qirui , Wang Shichan , Yang Tianmi , Lin Junyu , Zhang Lingyu , Shang Huifang
Published: January 2025

Background

Considerable heterogeneity in genotypes and phenotypes has been observed among patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) harbouring optineurin gene (OPTN) mutations, as reported in prior studies. The study aimed to elucidate the correlation betweenOPTNgenotypes and phenotypes.

Methods

OPTNgene variants were screened within a substantial Chinese cohort of patients with ALS, encompassing LoF and rare missense variants. Additionally, a systematic literature review was conducted to compile the spectrum ofOPTNmutations and explore the relationship between the genotype and phenotype of patients with ALS withOPTN.

Results

A total of 33 unrelated patients with ALS with 24 rareOPTNvariants, including 17 novel variants, were identified in 2279 patients with ALS. Among 24 variants in our cohort and 106 variants in previous studies, only 33.3% and 35.8% were pathogenic/likely pathogenic variants. Moreover, the frequency ofOPTNvariants in the Asian ALS population was higher (1.08%) than that of the Caucasian population (0.55%). For the phenotype of patients with ALS carrying OPTN variants, we found that patients with pathogenic/likely pathogenic variants had the highest baseline progression rate and the shortest survival time among groups in our cohort.

Conclusion

Our study contributed to a broader understanding of the genotype and phenotype spectrum of patients with ALS carryingOPTNvariants. Further investigations are warranted to definitively establish the genotype-phenotype associations.
FLNAgenomic rearrangements in a 391 French bilateral periventricular nodular heterotopia cohort: prevalence and phenotypic correlations
Authors: Margot Henri , Hernandez Poblete Natalia , Angelini Chloé , Desforges Julie , Bouron Julie , Arveiler Benoit , Rooryck Caroline , Goizet Cyril , Fergelot Patricia
Published: January 2025

Background

FLNAloss of function manifests across a broad spectrum of phenotypes, ranging from severe prenatal onset to asymptomatic cases. Bilateral periventricular nodular heterotopia (BPNH) consistently occurs in affected individuals. This retrospective study involving French patients with BPNH evaluates the prevalence ofFLNAgene dosage anomalies and investigates genotype-phenotype correlations in a large cohort of French patients with BPNH.

Methods

A retrospective observational study was conducted on 391 individuals diagnosed with BPNH confirmed by brain MRI. Sequencing analysis using Sanger or next-generation sequencing was complemented by targeted array-comparative genomic hybridisation to identify copy number variants (CNVs).

Results

FLNAvariants were identified in 40% of females and 12% of males. Among these, 87% were single nucleotide variants (SNVs), while CNVs accounted for 13%, all of which were deletions. Half of the CNVs involved a recurrent deletion spanning exons 31–48, often accompanied by a duplication of the neighbouringEMDgene. This del-dup was associated with a milder phenotype, whereas smaller de novo deletions correlated with severe outcomes. Mosaicism was also detected in three cases.

Conclusion

FLNACNV analysis, particularly for recurrent deletions and mosaicism, is essential in the genetic evaluation of BPNH. Integrating CNV detection with SNV analysis improves diagnostic accuracy and enhances understanding of genotype-phenotype correlations.
Current evidence around key underrepresented women's health topics in pregnancy and postpartum nutrition: a narrative review
Authors: Kinshella Mai-Lei Woo , Moore Sophie E. , Elango Rajavel
Published: January 2025

Adequate nutrition during pregnancy and postpartum is critical to maternal and child health, but there is often a missing focus around health outcomes specifically for women. Women's health includes sex-specific biological attributes and socially constructed gender roles framing behaviours and practices. This narrative review aims to highlight key areas where women's health has been underrepresented in pregnancy and postpartum nutrition research. Current evidence and research gaps are discussed for nutritional requirements during pregnancy and lactation, maternal mortality and morbidity nutritional risk factors, preconception and postpartum nutrition, and gendered cultural norms and inequities in access to nutritious foods during pregnancy and postpartum. Important areas for future research include strengthening empirical evidence for nutritional requirements in pregnant and lactating populations, the relationship between maternal iron status, anaemia and maternal morbidities, linkages between nutrient status among women and adolescent girls to maternal health outcomes, postpartum nutrition for recovery, lactation, and long-term women's health outcomes, and strength-based cultural practices that can support adequate maternal nutrition. There is an ongoing need to include women in nutritional requirements research, and measure health outcomes for women to ensure creation of an evidence base on both sex and gender-based datasets.
What do Canadian universities suggest on their webpages as future career and educational pathways following completion of a kinesiology or exercise science undergraduate program?
Authors: Nagpal Taniya S. , Randhawa Hanna , Pallister Rebecca , Fowles Jonathon R. , O'Brien Myles W.
Published: January 2025

Kinesiology undergraduate programs are multidisciplinary, and graduates may navigate several post-graduate education and career pathways. This study summarized the pathways currently listed online by Canadian undergraduate programs following completion of a kinesiology or “exercise science” degree. An environmental scan was completed by reviewing Canadian undergraduate program ( n = 59) webpages and their list of future pathways ( n = 845). A content analysis summarized pathways into 46 common categories. The most mentioned pathway was education ( n = 60), with coaching, health promotion and physiotherapy next ( n = 46–48). Additional pathways included medical, allied health professions, business, and exercise training ( n = 24–44). Most listed pathways likely require further training post-graduation.
LMAN2 interacts with HEATR3 to expedite HER2-positive breast cancer advancement and inflammation and Akt/ERK/NF-κB signaling
Authors: Xiao Sujian , Yu Tong , Yang Fulan , Yuan Huozhong , Ni Jun
Published: January 2025

The paper aimed to reveal the impacts and the possible mechanism of action of lectin mannose-binding 2 protein (LMAN2) in HER2-positive breast cancer (BC). The expression, prognostic potential of LMAN2, and the correlation between LMAN2 and HEAT repeat containing 3 (HEATR3) in BC were analyzed in TCGA database. Intact, Mentha, and BioGrid databases predicted LMAN2–HEATR3 interactions. Reverse transcription-quantitative PCR and Western blot examined LMAN2 expression. Cell Counting Kit-8, 5-ethynyl-2′-deoxyuridine staining, wound healing, and transwell assays, respectively, detected the aggressive cellular biological behaviors including proliferation, migration, and invasion. Western blot analyzed the expression of matrix metalloproteinases, HEATR3, and protein kinase B (Akt)/extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK)/nuclear factor-kappaB (NF-κB) signaling-related proteins. Co-immunoprecipitation assay was used to prove the relationship of LMAN2 with HEATR3. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay detected inflammatory cytokine levels. LMAN2 was overexpressed in HER2-positive BC tissues and cells and indicated unfavorable prognosis of BC patients. LMAN2 knockdown suppressed HER2-positive BC cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. LMAN2 interacted with and had a positive correlation with HEATR3. HEATR3 up-regulation reversed the repressive role of LMAN2 interference in the progression of HER2-positive BC, Akt/ERK/NF-κB signaling, and inflammatory response. Altogether, LMAN2 silencing might exert anti-tumor and anti-inflammatory properties and inactivate Akt/ERK/NF-κB signaling in HER2-positive BC via binding to HEATR3.
Assessing compressibility and hydraulic conductivity relationships of oil sands tailings derived from a combined constant-pressure filtration and incremental cake compression test
Authors: Ahmed Mahmoud , Beier Nicholas A. , Kaminsky Heather
Published: January 2025

A filtration-consolidation (F-C) technique is proposed to determine the non-linear consolidation constitutive relationships for compressibility (e – σ') and void ratio-hydraulic conductivity (k – e). A single constant filtration pressure was applied to three different oil sand tailings slurries, including two samples of fluid fine tailings (FFT) known for their high plasticity, and a mixture of FFT and sand tailings classified as a material with low plasticity. This was done using OFITE’s Multi-Unit filter press to observe the pressure-dependent behavior of the average specific cake resistance. Incremental compression pressure was also used to determine equilibrium cake porosities at different filtration pressure levels. Filtrate flux measurements and calculated equilibrium cake porosities were used with an iterative non-linear curve fitting algorithm to determine empirical parameters of constitutive equations. Comparison with multi-step large strain consolidation (MLSC) tests shows F-C test compressibility data closely matching MLSC test data within the F-C pressure range. Nevertheless, the hydraulic conductivity trend observed in the F-C test resembled that of the MLSC test, albeit being one order of magnitude lower. Overall, the F-C test offers a rapid method to assess the filterability of oil sands tailings and to derive the large strain consolidation behavior of the tested samples.
Water Vapor Sorption Isotherms of Salt-affected Soils
Authors: Hu Shaojie , Zhang Chao , Dong Yi , Gou Lingyun , Chen Renpeng
Published: January 2025

Salt-affected soils, including saline and alkali soils, cover about 7% of the land area on earth. Their interaction with water differs from non-saline soils, thereby exhibiting distinct fundamental properties and mechanical and hydrological behaviors. The soil-water interaction is generally assessed by water vapor sorption isotherm, i.e., the relationship between soil water content and ambient relative humidity under isotherm conditions. Yet to date, there still lacks a comprehensive dataset of water vapor sorption isotherms of salt-affected soils. This study presents a water vapor isotherm dataset encompassing six distinct soil types, ranging from sandy soil to expansive clayey soils. These soils were mixed with four salt types, including NaCl, KCl, MgCl2, and LiCl, at varying salt content, yielding 33 combinations of salt-affected soil samples. The results reveal three intriguing features of vapor sorption behaviors of salt-affected soils: (1) the presence of soil lowers the deliquescence relative humidity (DRH) of the salt in it, suggesting a potential interaction between soil solid and salt crystals; (2) the wetting-drying isotherm hysteresis of salt-affected soils significantly increase with salt content, even for non-expansive soils, implying a crystal nucleation process of salts in soils upon drying; (3) Sodium salt abnormally lowers adsorption capacity of Ca-montmorillonite in low RH range, demonstrating the existence of cation exchange between salt and interlayer cations.
Variation in cadmium concentration in seed and its association with phenotypic traits of 166 diverse flax (Linum usitatissimum L.) pure lines grown in western Canada
Authors: Diederichsen Axel , House Megan , Cloutier Sylvie , Liber Karsten
Published: January 2025

Four field trials were conducted in western Canada in 2020 and 2021 to assess cadmium (Cd) concentration in seed from 166 pure lines of flax originating from 26 countries that were derived by single seed descent from a genetically diverse flax core collection preserved by Plant Gene Resources of Canada. Associations of Cd concentration with morphological and phenological traits, as well as the country of origin were considered. The mean Cd concentration in the seed ranged from 0.31 to 1.50 mg/kg with an overall mean value of 0.93 ± 0.22 mg/kg. The Cd in the soil from the field sites ranged from 0.35 to 2.80 mg/kg and was positively correlated with the Cd concentration in the seed harvested from the respective sites. The consistency of the Cd concentration in the seed of pure lines across the four site-years was low, with correlation coefficients ranging from 0.35 to 0.53. Pure lines with consistently low Cd concentration in the seed were identified and may be useful for breeding linseed cultivars for human consumption while pure lines with consistently high Cd concentration might be used for phytoremediation of Cd-contaminated soils. Cd concentration in the seed was not significantly correlated with thousand seed weight, plant height, petal colour, seed colour, or country of origin. As a tendency, the longer the vegetative period and the later the accessions matured, the more Cd they accumulated in the seed. For linseed production in western Canada, choosing locations with a low Cd content in the soil is very important when growing flax for human consumption or feed use.
Non Abelian dual of the resolved conifold gauged linear sigma model
Authors: Cabo Bizet Nana , Jiménez Santana Yulier , Santos-Silva Roberto
Published: January 2025

We consider T-dualities arising from global symmetries in two dimensional Gauged Linear Sigma Models (GLSMs). The model has $$\mathcal {N}=(2,2)$$

N
=
(
2
,
2
)

supersymmetry, U(1) gauge group, and leads to the susy vacuum of the resolved conifold. It possesses the non-Abelian global symmetry $$SU(2) \times SU(2)$$

S
U
(
2
)
×
S
U
(
2
)

. A non-Abelian T-duality can be constructed, which can be described by gauging the global non-Abelian symmetry. This leads to a dual action, in terms of the dual model’s Kähler and superpotential terms, which include a dependence on twisted chiral superfields. The effective superpotentials for the U(1) vector superfield in the original and dual models are matched, determining the instanton corrections of the dual action. This is an important observable in the UV regime, which establishes the duality. We obtain the supersymmetry vacuum solution of the dual model in three cases: first, in an Abelian direction inside $$SU(2) \times SU(2)$$

S
U
(
2
)
×
S
U
(
2
)

; second, for an Abelian direction considering instanton corrections; and finally, for a semi-chiral non-Abelian vector superfield. The dual geometry for the cases without instanton corrections (SUSY vacuum space) is given by $$T^5 \times \mathbb {R}$$

T
5

×
R

. For the duality with instanton corrections, one obtains the vacuum space $$T^3 \times \mathbb {R}^2$$

T
3

×

R

2

, and with IR modifications to the twisted superpotential, one obtains a 3-fold given as a cubic polynomial on $$(\mathbb {C}^{\times })^3 \times \mathbb {C}$$

(

C

×

)

3

×
C

. We discuss the $$U(1)_A$$

U

(
1
)

A

axial R-symmetry in the dual model and its possible role.
First-principles study of the effect of tensile strain on the electronic and optical properties of Al-doped monolayer SnS2
Authors: Ma Mengting , Liu Guili , Gao Xuewen , He Jianlin , Zhang Guoying
Published: January 2025

The effect of biaxial tensile deformation on the optoelectronic properties of Al-doped monolayers SnS2 is explored using density functional theory. We found that the pure SnS2 monolayer is an indirect bandgap semiconductor, and with Al doping it changes to a p-type semiconductor with a lowered bandgap value. After applying biaxial tensile deformation to the doped system, i.e., with the increase of tensile strain, bandgap value decreases. Analyzing the density of states, it is found that the conduction band in a doped system is primarily made of the Sn-5s orbital and the S-3p orbital, and the valence band is primarily made of Sn-5p orbital and S-3p orbital, with the majority of S-3p orbital. The conduction and valence bands change with the rise in tensile strain, and hence the gap in the density of states close to the Fermi energy level shrinks. It is also noticed that the absorption coefficient peaks and reflection peaks of the SnS2 doped system subjected to biaxial tensile strain are blueshifted. The absorption coefficient and reflectance peaks of the doped system show a tendency to increase and then decrease with the increase of tensile strain.
ENTREPRENEURIAL INTENTION ACROSS CULTURES: A HOFSTEDE-INSPIRED COMPARATIVE STUDY BETWEEN ORGANIZATION OF ISLAMIC COOPERATION (OIC) AND NON-OIC COUNTRIES
Authors: MIAN HAMID ULLAH , AASSOULI DALAL , HAMZA SAHIBZADA MUHAMMAD , AHMED HABIB
Published: January 2025

Exploring the intricate relationship between national culture and entrepreneurial intentions, this study digs into the effect of Hofstede’s cultural dimensions on the entrepreneurial landscape within the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) and non-OIC countries. Revealing a nuanced interplay, the research underscores how cultural dimensions such as power distance, masculinity, long-term orientation and indulgence shape entrepreneurial intentions, casting shadows over intent in OIC nations and conversely fostering positivity in non-OIC counterparts. This study’s findings resonate with policymakers and entrepreneurs, advocating for the cultivation of cultural environments that foster and celebrate entrepreneurship–a cornerstone not only for economic growth, job creation and innovation, but also for holistic sustainable development.
Hate Speech Detection Research in South Asian Languages: A Survey of Tasks, Datasets and Methods
Authors: Sharma Deepawali , Nath Tanusree , Gupta Vedika , Singh Vivek Kumar
Published: January 2025

Social media has over the years emerged as a powerful platform for communicating and sharing views, thoughts, and opinions. However, at the same time it is being abused by certain individuals to spread hate against individuals, communities, religions etc. Such content can lead to serious issues of mental health, online well-being, and social order. Therefore, it is very important to have automated methods and approaches for detecting such content from the large volume of posts in social media. Recently there has been several efforts to develop computational approaches towards this end, however, most of these efforts are directed towards content in English language. Only recently studies have started focusing on low resource languages, including those from South Asia. This paper attempts to present a detailed and comprehensive survey of hate speech related research in South Asian languages. The various definitions and terms related to Hate speech in different social media platforms are discussed first. The different tasks in the hate speech research, available datasets and the popular computational approaches used in the South-Asian languages are surveyed in detail. Major patterns identified and the practical implications are presented and discussed, along with a discussion of challenges and opportunities of further research in the area.
Hardware Trojan Detection Potential and Limits with the Quantum Diamond Microscope
Authors: Lenz Jacob N. , Perryman Scott K. , Martynowych Dmitro J. , Hopper David A. , Oliver Sean M.
Published: January 2025

The Quantum Diamond Microscope (QDM) is an instrument with a demonstrated capability to image electrical current in Integrated Circuits (ICs), which shows promise for detection of hardware Trojans. The anomalous current activity caused by hardware Trojans manifests through a magnetic field side channel that can be imaged with the QDM, potentially allowing for detection and localization of the effects of tampering. This article seeks to identify the capabilities of the QDM for hardware Trojan detection through the analysis of previous QDM work as well as the QDM’s physical limits and potential Trojan behaviors. QDM metrics of interest are identified, such as spatial resolution, sensitivity, time-to-result, and field-of-view. Rare event detection on an FPGA is demonstrated with the QDM. The concept of operations is identified for QDM utilization at different steps of IC development, noting necessary considerations and limiting factors for use at different development stages. Finally, the effects of hardware Trojans on IC current activity are estimated and compared to QDM sensitivities to project QDM detection potential for ICs of varying process sizes.
Graded Lithium-Ion Battery Pouch Cells to Homogenise Current Distributions and Reduce Lithium Plating
Authors: Drummond R. , Tredenick E. C. , Kirk T. L. , Forghani M. , Grant P. S. , Duncan S. R.
Published: January 2025

Spatial distributions in current, temperature, state-of-charge and degradation across the plane of large format lithium-ion battery pouch cells can significantly impact their performance, especially at high C-rates. In this paper, a method to smooth out these spatial distributions by grading the electrode microstructure in-the-plane is proposed. A mathematical model of a large format pouch cell is developed and validated against both temperature and voltage experimental data. An analytical solution for the optimal graded electrode that achieves a uniform current distribution across the pouch cell is then derived. The model predicts that the graded electrodes could significantly reduce the likelihood of lithium plating in large format pouch cells, with grading increasing the C-rate at which plating occurs from 2.4C to 4.3C. These results indicate the potential of designing spatially varying electrode architectures to homogenise the response of large format pouch cells and improve their high rate performance.
Cr Volatilization from Cr2O3 Exposed to Ar-20%CO2 and Ar-20%CO2–40%H2O at 600–800 °C
Authors: Tengprasert Watcharapon , Chandra-ambhorn Walairat , Thublaor Thammaporn , Nilsonthi Thanasak , Chandra-ambhorn Somrerk
Published: January 2025

Chromium volatilization from the surface of Cr2O3 pellets was investigated in the atmospheres containing Ar–20%CO2 and Ar–20%CO2–40%H2O at 600–800 °C. The measured fluxes of Cr-loss were 3–6 orders of magnitude higher than the fluxes calculated based on the conventional reaction: 1/2Cr2O3(s) + 3/4O2(g) + H2O(g) = CrO2(OH)2(g) considering both the case that O2 and H2O were from impurities and thermal decomposition of CO2 and H2O at equilibrium. As CrO3 was detected on the surface of Cr2O3 pellets after exposure to CO2-containing environments, the possible mechanism to explain chromium volatilization phenomena is proposed as chromium volatile matters should mainly be generated from the reaction between Cr2O3 and CO2 producing CrO3 on the surface of Cr2O3. The CrO3 may directly volatilize as the volatile phase of CrO3 in dry conditions or consecutively react with H2O to produce CrO2(OH)2 in humidified conditions.
Assessment of UV-Aging of Crosslinked Polyethylene Cable Insulation by Electrical Measurements, FTIR and DSC Analyses
Authors: Hedir Abdallah , Rondot Sébastien , Jbara Omar , Durmus Ali , Moudoud Mustapha , Lamrous Omar , Haddad Abderrahmane Manu
Published: January 2025

In this study, the effect of UV-radiation on the structural properties of crosslinked polyethylene (XLPE) power cable insulating material was investigated as a function of aging time. XLPE specimens were exposed to UV-radiation for 200 hours using low-pressure vapor fluorescent lamps. Electrical resistivity values, influence and leakage currents, and charging and discharging currents of specimens were measured and quantified. In addition, structural changes in polyethylene chains were also evaluated with Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) analyses and high-temperature oxidation stability was correlated with the level of structural deterioration as a result of UV-aging through determination of oxidation induction time and oxidation onset temperature in differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). Experimental results showed that the electrical properties of XLPE materials were significantly affected by UV radiation and resulting structural changes can be successfully assessed with electrical measurements as a rapid, easy, and reliable tool. It was also confirmed that FTIR and DSC analyses can be used to evaluate oxidative aging level of XLPE and olefinic polymers such as polyethylene and polypropylene, polyolefin-based elastomers. This study also suggests an analytical methodology to constitute the relationship between the thermal and physical properties of polyolefins and their service life.
Carotid bodies mediate glial cell activation and neuroinflammation in the NTS following long-term intermittent hypoxia: role in cardiorespiratory dysfunction
Authors: Pereyra Katherin , Diaz-Jara Esteban , Bernal-Santander Ignacio , Vicencio Sinay , Del Rio Rodrigo , Iturriaga Rodrigo
Published: January 2025

Chronic intermittent hypoxia (CIH), a feature of obstructive sleep apnea, causes cardiorespiratory alterations (i.e. hypertension) linked to oxidative stress, inflammation, and sympathoexcitation. In the present study, we highlight the role of enhanced carotid body (CB) chemosensory afferent discharges to the nucleus of the solitary tract (NTS) in long-term CIH-induced cardiorespiratory disorders. Indeed, we provide evidence that supports the notion that increased CB afferent activity contributes to persistent CIH-induced hypertension, likely triggering neuroinflammation in the NTS.