bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Neuronal and glial dysfunction, white matter hyperintensities and cognition in ageing and Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Lee Ann J , Howard Erica , Saltiel Nicole , Hayes Jasmeet P , Hayes Scott M
Published: February 2025

This cross-sectional study examined associations between multiple fluid biomarkers of neuronal and glial dysfunction (plasma neurofilament light chain, CSF growth-associated protein 43 and CSF soluble triggering receptor expressed on myeloid cells 2), total white matter hyperintensity volume and episodic memory and executive function performance in the context of Alzheimer’s disease biomarker status. A total of 563 participants (mean age = 71.9 years, standard deviation = 7.2) from the Alzheimer’s Disease Neuroimaging Initiative were classified by the amyloid-β/tau/neurodegeneration framework into no Alzheimer’s disease pathology (n = 176), suspected non-Alzheimer’s disease pathophysiology (n = 87) or Alzheimer’s disease continuum (n = 300) groups. Participants completed baseline neuropsychological assessment, plasma/CSF biomarker collection and MRI. Analyses explored the relative contributions of biomarkers to episodic memory and executive function performance and whether relationships varied by amyloid-β/tau/neurodegeneration group status. Across all participants, neurofilament light chain (β^= −0.14, P < 0.001) and growth-associated protein 43 (β^= −0.13, P < 0.001) were the strongest biomarkers associated with episodic memory performance, such that greater levels were associated with worse episodic memory. There was a group by growth-associated protein 43 interaction with episodic memory: greater growth-associated protein 43 was associated with lower episodic memory performance in participants classified as Alzheimer’s disease continuum relative to the no Alzheimer’s disease pathology group (β^= −0.26, P < 0.001). No robust associations between biomarkers and executive function performance or between soluble triggering receptor expressed on myeloid cells 2, white matter hyperintensity volume and cognition were observed. Biomarkers of neuro-axonal injury and synaptic dysfunction may independently contribute to episodic memory performance across participants with differing amyloid-β/tau/neurodegeneration profiles. Growth-associated protein 43 may predict worse episodic memory performance in participants with greater Alzheimer’s disease pathology. These biomarkers of neuronal dysfunction may serve as domain-specific cognitive correlates in the context of Alzheimer’s disease biomarker status.
Transport numbers of polyion and counterion for aqueous dispersions of TEMPO-oxidized cellulose nanofibers
Authors: Kanamori Rentaro , Watanabe Kaito , Yamagata Yoshifumi , Miyamoto Keisuke , Kawai Mika , Mitsumata Tetsu
Published: February 2025

The electric conductivity for aqueous dispersions of 2,2,6,6-tetramethylpiperidine-1-oxyl radical (TEMPO)-mediated oxidized cellulose nanofiber sodium salt (NaTOCN) was investigated to clarify the transport number of polyion TOCN− and counterion Na+. The transport number of TOCN− for NaTOCN with high aspect ratio was determined to be 0.84, suggesting that most of the electrical transport is due to the migration of polyions.
Experimental evolution in maize with replicated divergent selection identifies two plant-height-associated regions
Authors: Tost Mila , Westhues Cathy , Morrison Ginnie , Kaufmann Dietrich , Beissinger Timothy
Published: February 2025

Experimental evolution studies are common in agricultural research, where they are often deemed “long-term selection.” These are often used to perform selection mapping, which involves identifying markers that were putatively under selection based on finding signals of selection left in the genome. A challenge of previous selection mapping studies, especially in agricultural research, has been the specification of robust significance thresholds. This is in large part because long-term selection studies in crops have rarely included replication. Usually, significance thresholds in long-term selection experiments are based on outliers from an empirical distribution. This approach is prone to missing true positives or including false positives. Under laboratory conditions with model species, replicated selection has been shown to be a powerful tool, especially for the specification of significance thresholds. Another challenge is that commonly used single-marker-based statistics may identify neutral linked loci which have hitchhiked along with regions that are actually under selection. In this study, we conducted divergent, replicated selection for short and tall plant height in a random-mating maize population under real field conditions. Selection of the 5% tallest and shortest plants was conducted for 3 generations. Significance thresholds were specified using the false discovery rate for selection (FDRfS) based on a window-based statistic applied to a statistic leveraging replicated selection (FSTSum). Overall, we found 2 significant regions putatively under selection. One region was located on chromosome 3 close to the plant-height genes Dwarf1 and iAA8. We applied a haplotype block analysis to further dissect the pattern of selection in significant regions of the genome. We observed patterns of strong selection in the subpopulations selected for short plant height on chromosome 3.
Unraveling the Neural Code: Analysis of Large-Scale Two-Photon Microscopy Data
Authors: Saito Yoshihito , Osako Yuma , Murayama Masanori
Published: February 2025

The brain is an intricate neuronal network that orchestrates our thoughts, emotions, and actions through dynamic interactions between neurons. If we could record the activity of all neurons simultaneously in detail, it could revolutionize our understanding of brain function and lead to breakthroughs in treating neurological diseases. Recent technological innovations, particularly in large field-of-view two-photon microscopes, have made it possible to record the activity of tens of thousands of neurons simultaneously. However, the size and complexity of the datasets present significant challenges in extracting interpretable information. Conventional analysis methods are often insufficient, necessitating the development of new theoretical frameworks and computational efficiencies. In this review, we describe the characteristics of the data obtained from advanced imaging techniques and discuss analytical methods to facilitate mutual understanding between experimentalists and theorists. This interdisciplinary approach is crucial for effectively managing and interpreting large-scale neural activity datasets, ultimately advancing our understanding of brain function.
Farmers' attitudes toward economic experimentation
Authors: Englberger Leon , Colen Liesbeth , Rommel Jens
Published: February 2025

Economic experiments have gained popularity in Agricultural Economics. However, challenges in recruitment and acceptance of experimental methods among farmers persist. Surveying 406 Swedish farmers, we explore farmers’ attitudes toward different types and features of economic experiments. Only a quarter of participants accept a randomized controlled trial on agri-environmental schemes where a control group is excluded from payment eligibility. When the randomization varies the size of payments, acceptance drops to only seven percent. Despite being standard practice in lab-in-the-field experiments, farmers strongly reject behavior-contingent payments. Engaging farmers during study design and sharing results with them can ameliorate recruitment challenges.
Development of qPCR Assays to Detect and Quantify Fusarium spp. on Hemp (Cannabis sativa) Flowers
Authors: Munir Misbakhul , Smith Henry S. , Dixon Ed , Szarka Desiree , Wong Justin , Adedokun Toni , Church Annika , Thomas Erin , Schroer Rebecca , Reynolds Jacqueline , Gauthier Nicole Ward
Published: February 2025

Fusarium head blight (FHB) is one of the most important diseases affecting hemp. Multiple Fusarium spp. have been reported to be associated with FHB on hemp. The most commonly isolated species were those that potentially produce mycotoxins, such as F. graminearum (FG) and F. sporotrichioides (FS). Specific and sensitive detection assays of these species can assist in disease management and prevention of mycotoxin contamination. This study aimed to develop species specific qPCR assays for detection and quantification of FG and FS on hemp. Specificity of previously designed primers from several studies targeting various Fusarium genes were evaluated toward a range of Fusarium spp. and other pathogens isolated from hemp. The potential of the qPCR assays to detect and quantify FG and FS in hemp were evaluated using inoculated hemp. Specific amplification was observed with qPCR assays using primers based on the 3’-coding regions of the galactose oxidase (gaoA) gene and the translation elongation factor 1 alpha (TEF1) gene for FG and FS assays, respectively. The effective dynamic range for the FG assay was 0.4 pg to 0.4 ng with 5 orders of magnitude, while the range for the FS assay was 4.0 pg to 0.4 ng with 4 orders of magnitude. The ability of the assays to reliably quantify fungal DNA in hemp tissue was demonstrated. The level of specificity and sensitivity of the developed assay reflects its potential to detect and quantify the pathogens in field samples, which will potentially have significant implications for pathogen monitoring and disease management.
iPSC‐derived human cortical organoids display profound alterations of cellular homeostasis following SARS‐CoV‐2 infection and Spike protein exposure
Authors: Cappelletti Gioia , Brambilla Lorenzo , Strizzi Sergio , Limanaqi Fiona , Melzi Valentina , Rizzuti Mafalda , Nizzardo Monica , Saulle Irma , Trabattoni Daria , Corti Stefania , Clerici Mario , Biasin Mara
Published: February 2025

COVID‐19 commonly leads to respiratory issues, yet numerous patients also exhibit a diverse range of neurological conditions, suggesting a detrimental impact of SARS‐CoV‐2 or the viral Spike protein on the central nervous system. Nonetheless, the molecular pathway behind neurological pathology and the presumed neurotropism of SARS‐CoV‐2 remains largely unexplored. We generated human cortical organoids (HCOs) derived from human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSC) to assess: (1) the expression of SARS‐CoV‐2 main entry factors; (2) their vulnerability to SARS‐CoV‐2 infection; and (3) the impact of SARS‐CoV‐2 infection and exposure to the Spike protein on their transcriptome. Results proved that (1) HCOs express the main SARS‐CoV‐2 receptors and co‐receptors; (2) HCOs may be productively infected by SARS‐CoV‐2; (3) the viral particles released by SARS‐CoV‐2‐infected HCOs are able to re‐infect another cellular line; and (4) the infection resulted in the activation of apoptotic and stress pathways, along with inflammatory processes. Notably, these effects were recapitulated when HCOs were exposed to the Spike protein alone. The data obtained demonstrate that SARS‐CoV‐2 likely infects HCOs probably through the binding of ACE2, CD147, and NRP1 entry factors. Furthermore, exposure to the Spike protein alone proved sufficient to disrupt their homeostasis and induce neurotoxic effects, potentially contributing to the onset of long‐COVID symptoms.
Mechanism of O‐GlcNAcylation regulating liver lipid synthesis in mice through FASN
Authors: Li Xiaoshuang , Zhang Ziyang , Zhang Meng , Cao Yu , Zhou Wanhui , Kou Lele , Guo Wenjin , Zhang Boxi , Li Shize , Xu Bin
Published: February 2025

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has become one of the most common chronic liver diseases. O‐Linked attachment of beta‐N‐acetylglucosamine (O‐GlcNAc) are ubiquitous post‐translational modifications of proteins as “nutrient sensors” and “stress receptors” in the body that are involved in maintaining normal cellular physiological functions. Increased levels of O‐GlcNAcylation have been found in the liver samples of patients with NAFLD and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis. However, the role of O‐GlcNAcylation in the development and pathogenesis of NAFLD remains unclear. Here, we sought to determine the specific role of O‐GlcNAcylation in NAFLD. In this study, the results demonstrated that inhibition of O‐GlcNAc transferase (OGT) led to decreased expression of liver lipid synthesis genes and proteins in vitro. In addition, we showed that fatty acid synthase (FASN) expression was positively correlated with O‐GlcNAcylation levels. Immunoprecipitation and pulldown assays confirmed the interaction between FASN and OGT at the serine 1483 of FASN, to inhibit K48‐linked ubiquitination and degradation of FASN, thereby promoting hepatic lipid accumulation and the development of NAFLD. Administration of the OGT inhibitor OSMI‐1 to ob/ob mice led to decreased liver lipid accumulation, further confirming our in vitro experimental results. Finally, we used liver‐specific Ogt gene knockout mice fed a high‐fat diet to elucidate the specific mechanism of O‐GlcNAcylation on NAFLD and found that knockdown of the Ogt gene led to decreased liver lipid accumulation. In conclusion, our findings show that inhibiting the O‐GlcNAcylation of FASN at the S1483 site promotes the K48‐linked ubiquitination and degradation of FASN and leads to inhibition of lipid accumulation in the liver. Treatment with the OGT inhibitor OSMI‐1 leads to decreased lipid accumulation in the liver, suggesting that targeting O‐GlcNAcylation sites could be a potential therapeutic strategy for alleviating NAFLD.
Vertical Video-based Gait Analysis for Assessment of Transverse Plane Motion: Reliability and Validity in a Neuromuscular Population
Authors: Olleac Ramiro , Centeno Bernardo , Duffy Clara , Nuñez Marcos , Crespo Marcos , Barrios Lucas M. , Davids Jon R. , Kulkarni Vedant A.
Published: February 2025

Background:

In the absence of 3-dimensional gait analysis (3DGA), assessment of transverse plane motion of the lower extremity from sagittal and coronal video has a high degree of error. We propose a standardized method through vertical video-based gait analysis (VVGA) to assess the position of the pelvis and lower extremity in the transversal plane. This study aims to evaluate the reliability and accuracy of VVGA compared with 3DGA for transverse plane kinematics.

Methods:

VVGA and 3DGA were obtained simultaneously on subjects between the ages of 6 and 35 referred to a motion analysis center. Gait Deviation Index (GDI) and Gait Profile Score (GPS) were used to estimate overall gait deviation of the subjects. Three raters at different levels of experience performed VVGA on all patients utilizing a standardized technique. Inter-rater and intrarater reliability was calculated using interclass correlation coefficients (ICC). Mean absolute difference (MAD) between VVGA measurements and 3DGA data was calculated for each body-segment.

Results:

Twenty-six patients (median age: 12 y, 61.53% male) with neuromuscular disorders participated in the study, with the majority (65%) having cerebral palsy. The mean GDI of the subject group was 80.7 and the mean GPS was 1082, indicating a neuromuscular cohort with significant gait deviations. Inter-rater and intrarater reliabilities were excellent, with ICC ranging from 0.94 to 0.99. The overall MAD between VVGA analysis and 3DGA was 4.90 degrees, indicating a clinically acceptable overall error. Segment-specific errors were 4.63 degrees for pelvis rotation, 5.35 degrees for hip rotation, and 4.70 degrees for foot progression.

Conclusions:

VVGA is an accurate and reliable method for assessing the transverse plane position of the pelvis, hip, and foot when utilizing a standardized method of collection and data analysis. Further study is required to assess whether this technique can be used for surgical decision-making or outcome assessment.
Process-Focused Approach to Reduce Central Line Bloodstream Infections in the Pediatric Population
Authors: Kovar Lacey , Patterson Tiffany , Cline Amber , Hilton Brittany , Seigman Kelsey , McMenamy Sarah , Malinowski Kimberly
Published: February 2025

Objective:

In 2022, our pediatric and women's medical center observed a 166.67% increase in central line bloodstream infections (CLABSIs) in the pediatric population. A quality-focused group was initiated to implement changes to reduce CLABSIs.

Methods:

Hand hygiene compliance, creating resource tools, implementing CLABSI prevention competencies, and CLABSI bundle audits were used as interventions.

Results:

Our institution's CLABSI rate decreased 71% from 1.59 CLABSIs per 1,000 central line days in 2022 to 0.46 CLABSIs per 1,000 central line days in 2023.

Conclusions:

A multifaceted approach with unit focus allowed our institution to decrease the number of CLABSIs in the pediatric and neonatal units.
Cough-induced rectus sheath hematoma in a healthy adult male – a case report
Authors: Jaishi Sushma , Chhetri Susmita Khadka , Thapa Susant , Suraj K.C. , Khanal Bhawani
Published: February 2025

Introduction and importance:

Spontaneous rectus sheath hematoma (RSH) is a rare and underdiagnosed condition that can mimic more serious causes of acute abdominal pain leading to unnecessary surgery or delay in management. It occurs due to bleeding within the rectus sheath, often caused by the rupture of epigastric vessels or rectus abdominis muscle.

Case presentation:

In the case presented in this study, a 47-year-old man presented with acute left upper quadrant pain and a painful abdominal mass following a severe coughing episode. Imaging confirmed a rectus sheath hematoma. Conservative management, including bed rest and pain relief, led to recovery. At follow-up, the patient was asymptomatic and advised to quit smoking.

Discussion:

Spontaneous rectus sheath hematoma (RSH) is a rare cause of acute abdominal pain, often triggered by coughing, sneezing, or vomiting. Risk factors include hypertension, obesity, and anticoagulant use. This case highlights a RSH in the left upper quadrant, a less common site diagnosed through ultrasound and CT. While most cases are managed conservatively, surgical intervention is necessary in complicated cases.

Conclusion:

Rectus sheath hematoma, though uncommon, should be considered in patients presenting with acute abdominal pain and a history of intense coughing even in absence of abdominal trauma or anticoagulant therapy.
One-Year Outcomes in Prepectoral versus Subpectoral Alloplastic Breast Reconstruction
Authors: Vingan Perri S. , Kim Minji , Boe Lillian A. , Coriddi Michelle R. , Allen Robert J. , Disa Joseph J. , Stern Carrie S. , Matros Evan , Mehrara Babak J. , Nelson Jonas A.
Published: February 2025

Background:

Prepectoral and subpectoral approaches to implant-based breast reconstruction (IBBR) are both reliable options for patients following mastectomy. In this study, we aim to compare one-year complication rates, additional/revision procedures, and patient-reported outcomes (PROs) between two-stage prepectoral or subpectoral IBBR through propensity matching.

Methods:

Female patients who underwent prepectoral or subpectoral two-stage IBBR from January 2017 to June 2022 with BREAST-Q scores available 1 year after exchange were reviewed. Complication rates, additional/revision procedures at the time of exchange and within 1 year of exchange, and BREAST-Q scores preoperatively and at 1-year were compared between patient groups. Propensity score-matched analyses were used to reduce possible confounding or selection bias related to non-randomized treatment assignment of patients.

Results:

Of 1,732 overall patients, 878 patients were included in the matched analysis (439 in each cohort.) Prepectoral patients had significantly higher rates of implant-related cellulitis/infection (5.5% vs. 1.8%, p=0.008) and implant exposure (2.3% vs 0.2%, p=0.016) compared to subpectoral patients, and more commonly had fat grafting at the time of the exchange procedure. Physical Well-being of the Chest at 1-year was significantly higher in the prepectoral patients (80 (IQR64,92) vs. 76 (64,85), p<0.001). No other differences in BREAST-Q outcomes were observed.

Conclusion:

In this powered analysis comparing prepectoral and subpectoral implant reconstruction at one year, we found that prepectoral patients experience higher rates of complications such as infection or implant exposure following implant exchange but have improved health related quality of life as defined by the BREAST-Q Physical Well-being of the Chest domain.
Association of Patient Sex With Inpatient Mortality After Elective Primary Total Hip Arthroplasty for Osteoarthritis
Authors: Chandrupatla Sumanth R. , Singh Jasvinder A.
Published: February 2025

Objective

This study aims to evaluate the association between patient sex and discharge disposition as well as inpatient mortality following elective primary total hip arthroplasty (THA) for osteoarthritis (OA) in the United States.

Methods

This study used the 2016–2019 US National Inpatient Sample, a nationally representative dataset, to conduct a cross-sectional study. Adjusted odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated to assess the association of sex with discharge disposition and in-hospital mortality after elective primary THA for OA, adjusting for demographics, comorbidity, social determinants of health (income, insurance payer), hospital characteristics (bed size, location/teaching status, region, control), and postprocedural complications (for mortality and discharge disposition).

Results

There were 1,507,085 elective primary THA hospitalizations for OA in the 2016–2019 National Inpatient Sample data. The mean age was 65.6 years, 55.7% were female, and the mean Deyo-Charlson comorbidity index score was 0.6. In multivariable-adjusted analysis, compared with male sex, female sex was associated with nonhome discharge, but not with in-hospital mortality following elective THA for OA; the adjusted odds ratios were 1.27 (95% CI, 1.25–1.29; p < 0.001) and 0.72 (95% CI, 0.46–1.13; p = 0.15), respectively.

Conclusions

Female sex was a risk factor for nonhome discharge, but not in-hospital mortality after elective primary THA for OA. It remains to be seen whether better patient health optimization with clinical pathways and targeted interventions in females undergoing elective primary THA can reduce the complication rate.
Comparative effects of CPAP and Mandibular Advancement Device Treatment on Cardiac Structure and Function in OSA: A Cardiovascular Magnetic Resonance Randomised Controlled Study
Authors: Iyer Nithin R , Ou Yi-Hui , Bryant Jennifer A , Le Thu-thao , Colpani Juliana T , Cheong Crystal S , Loke Weiqiang , Cistulli Peter A , Ugander Martin , Lee Chi-Hang , Chin Calvin
Published: February 2025

Background Adverse cardiac remodelling, including left ventricular (LV) hypertrophy, LV dysfunction and diffuse myocardial fibrosis, is observed in obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA). However, the impact of OSA treatment on cardiac remodelling remains poorly defined. The Cardiosleep Research Program on Obstructive Sleep Apnoea, Blood Pressure Control and Maladaptive Myocardial Remodeling Non-inferiority Trial (CRESCENT) showed that treatment with a mandibular advancement device (MAD) was non-inferior to continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) for reducing 24-hour mean arterial BP in patients with hypertension and moderate-to-severe OSA, after 6 months of treatment. This cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) substudy of the CRESCENT trial aimed to evaluate the comparative effects of MAD and CPAP on myocardial structure and function in patients with OSA. Methods 85 patients with hypertension, increased cardiovascular risk and newly-diagnosed moderate-to-severe OSA (Apnoea-Hypopnoea Index [AHI] ≥15 events/hour), underwent contrast-enhanced CMR at baseline and following 12 months of treatment with CPAP (n=49) or MAD (n=36). LV mass, volumes, function and markers of diffuse myocardial fibrosis, including the extracellular volume (ECV) fraction and interstitial volume, were measured. Results Across the cohort (age: 61[54-66] years, 91% males, BMI: 28[26-31] kg/m2, and AHI: 41[27-59] events/hour), a modest reduction in the ECV fraction was observed (25.0±2.0 vs 24.3±2.0 %; p<0.001), accompanied by a reduction in the interstitial volume over a 12-month period of OSA treatment (24.0[21.3-27.7] vs 23.3[20.4-27.4]mL; p=0.044). The reduction in ECV fraction was similar between the CPAP and MAD groups (p=0.94). Conclusion 12 months treatment of OSA in patients with hypertension is associated with a reduction in myocardial ECV fraction, a surrogate marker of diffuse myocardial fibrosis, with accompanying reduction in myocardial interstitial volume. Both CPAP and MAD were similarly effective. Further confirmation of these findings in larger cohorts is warranted. (Cardiosleep Research Program on Obstructive Sleep Apnea, Blood Pressure Control and Maladaptive Myocardial Remodeling Non-inferiority Trial [CRESCENT];NCT04119999).
Machine learning models predict long COVID outcomes based on baseline clinical and immunologic factors
Authors: Jayavelu Naresh Doni , Samaha Hady , Wimalasena Sonia Tandon , Hoch Annmarie , Gygi Jeremy P , Gabernet Gisela , Ozonoff Al , Liu Shanshan , Milliren Carly E. , Levy Ofer , Baden Lindsey R. , Melamed Esther , Ehrlich Lauren I. R. , McComsey Grace A. , Sekaly Rafick P. , Cairns Charles B. , Haddad Elias K. , Schaenman Joanna , Shaw Albert C. , Hafler David A. , Montgomery Ruth R. , Corry David B. , Kheradmand Farrah , Atkinson Mark A. , Brakenridge Scott C. , Higuita Nelson I Agudelo , Metcalf Jordan P. , Hough Catherine L. , Messer William B. , Pulendran Bali , Nadeau Kari C. , Davis Mark M. , Geng Linda N. , Sesma Ana Fernandez , Simon Viviana , Krammer Florian , Kraft Monica , Bime Chris , Calfee Carolyn S. , Erle David J. , Langelier Charles R. ,   IMPACC Network, Guan Leying , Maecker Holden T. , Peters Bjoern , Kleinstein Steven H. , Reed Elaine F. , Diray-Arce Joann , Rouphael Nadine , Altman Matthew C.
Published: February 2025

The post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 (PASC), also known as long COVID, remain a significant health issue that is incompletely understood. Predicting which acutely infected individuals will go on to develop long COVID is challenging due to the lack of established biomarkers, clear disease mechanisms, or well-defined sub-phenotypes. Machine learning (ML) models offer the potential to address this by leveraging clinical data to enhance diagnostic precision. We utilized clinical data, including antibody titers and viral load measurements collected at the time of hospital admission, to predict the likelihood of acute COVID-19 progressing to long COVID. Our machine learning models achieved median AUROC values ranging from 0.64 to 0.66 and AUPRC values between 0.51 and 0.54, demonstrating their predictive capabilities. Feature importance analysis revealed that low antibody titers and high viral loads at hospital admission were the strongest predictors of long COVID outcomes. Comorbidities, including chronic respiratory, cardiac, and neurologic diseases, as well as female sex, were also identified as significant risk factors for long COVID. Our findings suggest that ML models have the potential to identify patients at risk for developing long COVID based on baseline clinical characteristics. These models can help guide early interventions, improving patient outcomes and mitigating the long-term public health impacts of SARS-CoV-2.
The potential biofertilization effect of H2is accompanied by a modest impact on the composition of microbial communities in the rhizosphere of common vetch
Authors: Dip Diana P. , Constant Philippe
Published: February 2025

N2-fixing nodules releases molecular hydrogen (H2) in the rhizosphere of legumes. The process activates H2-oxidizing bacteria (HOB) in soil, leading to multiple effects on biogeochemical processes and a potential biofertilization effect. The legacy effect of the energy potential of H2on soil microbial community structure and the population density of HOB has received little attention. The aim of this study is to evaluate how the legacy effect of HOB, previously activated in soil microcosms exposed to elevated H2concentration (eH2), affects biomass production yield of common vetch (Vicia sativa) and the abundance of HOB and the composition of microbiome in the rhizosphere. Contrasting soil displaying more than 60% difference in H2oxidation activity were used as growth substrate for vetch. The abundance of HOB was indistinguishable between the treatments and two phylotypes, namelyAeromicrobiumspp. andRamlibacterspp., were favored by eH2exposure at the activation stage. Their response was transient as no legacy effect was noticed after vetch growth. The root biomass and the root/shoot ratio were reduced in soil conditioned with eH2. These results provide new experimental evidence suggesting the biofertilization effect of H2is not universal and requires specific conditions that remain yet to be identified.
Zika virus-induced fetal demise is driven by strain- and dose-specific RLR-driven activation of the interferon response in the decidua, placenta, and fetus inIfnar1-/-mice
Authors: Bohm Ellie K. , Castañeda David , Lu Qun , Cameron Michael D. , Aliota Matthew T.
Published: February 2025

Congenital Zika syndrome (CZS), the set of fetal and neonatal complications associated with Zika virus (ZIKV) infection in pregnancy, was first noted during the outbreak in the Americas in 2015-16. However, there was an unequal distribution of ZIKV cases and severe outcomes in all areas where ZIKV emerged in the Americas, demonstrating that the risk of CZS varied over space and time. Recently, we demonstrated that phenotypic heterogeneity existed between closely-related ZIKV strains. All ZIKV strains tested infected the placenta but varied in their capacity to cause overt fetal harm. Here, we further characterized the relative contributions of virus genotype and infecting dose of two phenotypically distinct ZIKV strains across multiple timepoints in gestation in pregnant mice that lack type-I interferon receptor function (Ifnar1-/-). To better understand the underlying causes of adverse fetal outcomes, we used RNA sequencing to compare ZIKV-infected and uninfected tissues. We found that ZIKV infection triggers retinoic acid-inducible gene I (RIG-I)-like receptor-mediated activation of the interferon response at the maternal-fetal interface. However, modest chemical inhibition of RIG-I activation in the decidua and placenta did not protect against fetal demise. Instead, the fetal interferon response was significantly associated with fetal demise. Together, these findings suggest that the response to ZIKV at the maternal-fetal interface can vary depending on the infecting ZIKV genotype and dose, and that the fetal immune response is an important mediator of fetal harm.

IMPORTANCE

Previously, we used a mouse model of ZIKV infection during pregnancy to assess the pathogenic potential to the fetus of a panel of five, low-passage ZIKV strains representing the viral genetic diversity in the Americas. We found that phenotypic heterogeneity existed between these closely-related ZIKV strains. Here, we show that this heterogeneity is driven by retinoic acid-inducible gene I (RIG-I)-like receptor-mediated activation of the interferon response at the maternal-fetal interface. We used chemical inhibition of the RIG-I pathway and measured the transcriptional activity of interferon stimulated genes in fetuses to demonstrate that the fetal immune response may contribute to fetal demise.
Delayed Access to Innovative Medicines in Romania: A Comprehensive Analysis of the Reimbursement Processes (2015-2024)
Authors: Radu Constantin , Serban Daiana Elena , Chiriac Nona Delia
Published: February 2025

Introduction:Romania's reimbursement framework for innovative medicines relies on health technology assessments (HTAs) resulting in unconditional or conditional decisions. Although conditional decisions aim to manage financial uncertainty via Cost-Volume (CV), anecdotal evidence points to growing delays and a growing backlog of indications waiting to be reimbursed. This study is the first to systematically quantify these delays and assess their evolution over time.Methods:We analyzed all publicly available full HTA reports (2015-2024) from Romania's National Drug Agency. Each indication was classified by HTA decision (unconditional, conditional, or negative) and reimbursement status. Descriptive analyses included mean and median durations for HTA and reimbursement processes. A Kaplan-Meier survival analysis compared time-to-reimbursement between conditional and unconditional indications. Finally, we fit a simple linear model (2022-2024) to project future backlog growth under current policies.Results:Out of 613 full HTA reports covering 666 indications, 44% were conditionally approved, 42% unconditionally, and 14% received a negative decision; oncology accounted for ~40% of all indications. The HTA process (submission to decision) improved considerably, with mean durations nearly halving from 208 days in 2020 to roughly 100 days in 2024. Despite these improvements, the mean time from HTA decision to reimbursement rose from 222 days in 2020 to 461 days in 2024 overall, with conditional decisions taking on average 274 more days than unconditional ones in 2024. Kaplan-Meier analysis showed that by 24 months post-HTA decision, 98.3% of unconditional indications were reimbursed, compared to only 60.1% of conditional indications. Meanwhile, the backlog of unreimbursed indications increased from 47 in 2022 to 146 in 2024, and linear projections suggest it could reach 247 by 2026 under the current system.Discussion:Despite some efficiency gains in the HTA evaluation stage, Romania's conditional reimbursement pathway remains hampered by tight budgets and administrative hurdles, prolonging patient inaccessibility--particularly in oncology, where timely treatment is critical. Strengthening administrative capacity, diversifying Managed Entry Agreement (MEA) models, and integrating new digital tools could help address these bottlenecks. Without substantial reforms, the backlog will continue growing, limiting patients' timely access to innovative therapies.
Modeling dynamic oxygen permeability as a mechanism to mitigate oxygen-induced stresses on photosynthesis and N2fixation in marineTrichodesmium
Authors: Luo Weicheng , Inomura Keisuke , Prášil Ondřej , Eichner Meri , Luo Ya-Wei
Published: February 2025

Trichodesmium, the predominant marine diazotrophic cyanobacterium, concurrently performs nitrogen (N2) fixation and photosynthesis, the latter of which produces oxygen (O2) that inhibits N2fixation. Hopanoid lipids inTrichodesmiummay play a role in dynamically regulating membrane permeability to O2, potentially alleviating O2stress on N2fixation. However, the physiological impacts of this dynamic permeability are not well understood. We developed a model showing that dynamically modulating membrane O2permeability can enhance N2fixation and growth ofTrichodesmiumby over 50%. High O2permeability (1.5×10-4of O2diffusivity in seawater) during strong photosynthesis accelerates O2exhaust, reducing energy-consuming photorespiration by ∼40%, while low O2permeability (1.0×10-5diffusivity) during active N2fixation minimizes O2stress on N2fixation. Together, these mechanisms increase the carbon and iron use efficiencies by ∼70%. Our study provides a mechanistic and quantitative framework for how dynamic O2permeability benefitsTrichodesmium, offering insights potentially applicable to other diazotrophs.

IMPORTANCE

Trichodesmiumis a key player in marine N2fixation, essential for oceanic productivity and global biogeochemical cycles. However, a significant challenge arises from the concurrent photosynthetic production of O2during N2fixation, which can inhibit N2fixation and cause energy-wasting photorespiration. We develop a physiological model showing thatTrichodesmiummay dynamically regulate membrane O2permeability to enhance N2fixation and growth. The model suggests two mechanisms: elevated O2permeability during the early daytime of strong photosynthesis accelerates O2exhaust to environment, reducing photorespiration, while reduced O2permeability later limits O2influx from environment, lowering wasteful respiration and maintaining a low intracellular O2level for active N2fixation. These adaptations improve the efficiency of carbon and iron utilization, thereby facilitating N2fixation and growth inTrichodesmium. This study sheds light on howTrichodesmiumand other N2-fixing microorganisms can optimize their physiological processes in response to environmental challenges.

HIGHLIGHTS

We developed a metabolic flux model ofTrichodesmium, which resolves Dynamic cellular Permeability to O2(DPO2).

DPO2increases N2fixation and growth rates.

DPO2increases growth efficiency by reducing carbon wasting processes such as photorespiration and respiratory protection.

DPO2, as a result, also increases iron utilization efficiency.
Artificial topological insulator realized in a two-terminal Josephson junction with Rashba spin-orbit interaction
Authors: Medic Luka , Ramšak Anton , Rejec Tomaž
Published: February 2025

We study a two-terminal Josephson junction with conventional superconductors and a normal region with a Rashba spin-orbit interaction, characterized by two Aharonov-Casher (AC) fluxes. When the superconducting phase difference equals π, the Andreev subgap spectrum may host zero-energy Weyl singularities associated with a vanishing normal-state reflection eigenvalue. With one of the AC fluxes playing the role of a quasimomentum, the junction can be viewed as an artificial one-dimensional chiral topological insulator. Its topological phase can be tuned by crossing a Weyl singularity by means of varying the remaining AC flux. By associating an additional component of the quasimomentum with the superconducting phase difference, an artificial Chern insulator is realized.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Uncorking the psychological factors behind habits and NoLo wine preferences
Authors: Rai Krupa , Galati Antonino , Chatterjee Sheshadri , Chaudhuri Ranjan , Vrontis Demetris , Migliore Giuseppina
Published: February 2025

Purpose

The consumption of no-and low-alcohol (NoLo) wines has emerged as a growing trend among Italian millennials, reflecting a shift towards healthier and more mindful drinking habits. This paper delves into the social factors driving this trend, employing the rational of habit theory to provide a comprehensive understanding of NoLo wines consumption as a social behaviour among Italian millennials.

Design/methodology/approach

The research design comprises symmetrical and asymmetrical approach. The study employs Cluster and fsQCA to understand the granularities of NoLo wine consumption.

Findings

The present study reveals that young adults are willingness to pay (WTP) more for NoLo wine in exchange of improved health benefits as a reward. The contrarian observation of relatively consumers with low average income exhibiting the high willingness to pay more for NoLo wine.

Research limitations/implications

The sample is limited to Italy and skewed in terms of NoLo wine consumption. The participants were aware of NoLo wine but did not consume it in the past year. The study identified the paradoxical stance of low average family income group exhibiting more willingness-to-pay for de-alcoholised wine.

Practical implications

Firstly, young adults are increasingly health-conscious, seeking alternatives to alcohol that promote well-being and reduce health risks associated with excessive alcohol consumption. Secondly, mindfulness practices have gained popularity among young adults for altering self-perception, leading to a preference for beverages that align with mindful consumption and stress reduction. NoLo wine offers a suitable alternative, providing a similar sensory experience without the intoxicating effects of alcohol.

Social implications

Habit theory, pioneered by James (1890), posits that habits are formed through a three-stage process: cue, routine and reward. In the context of NoLo wine consumption, cues can include social gatherings, dining occasions or stress relief triggers. The routine involves the act of consuming NoLo wine, while the reward stems from the perceived benefits of this wine, such as reduced alcohol intake, improved health and social acceptance. The prevalence of NoLo wine consumption among Italian young adults can be attributed to a confluence of social factors.

Originality/value

The paper attempts to evaluate the contrarian case using fsQCA and the conceptual configuration of necessary conditions, viz. self-perception, social norms and health-consciousness.
Global patterns in workplace incivility research: a bibliometric analysis
Authors: Verma Madhu , Yadav Priyanka
Published: February 2025

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to conduct a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of workplace incivility research spanning from 1999 to 2023, examining publication trends, intellectual structure, and global collaboration patterns to synthesize fragmented knowledge and identify future research directions.

Design/methodology/approach

This study used the Bibliometrix R-package to analyze 1,322 publications from Scopus and Web of Science databases. It used descriptive analysis and network analysis to examine the field’s evolution.

Findings

The analysis revealed significant growth in workplace incivility research, particularly after 2008. Key themes included customer incivility, emotional exhaustion and job satisfaction. The USA led in research output, with strong international collaborations. The intellectual structure comprised four main clusters, reflecting the field’s multidisciplinary nature.

Research limitations/implications

Limitations included potential bias toward English-language publications and reliance on citation metrics. This study highlighted opportunities for more diverse international collaborations and suggested focusing on long-term effects, evidence-based interventions and technology-mediated incivility in future research.

Originality/value

This study provides a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of workplace incivility research from two major databases (Scopus and Web of Science), offering a holistic view of the field’s development and identifying critical knowledge gaps to inform future research directions.
Moderating influence of cultural values on the relationship between governance and risk perception in large-scale infrastructure development projects
Authors: Oyuga Salome , Ochieng Edward Godfrey , Ngene Geoffrey
Published: February 2025

Purpose

This paper investigates the moderating influence of cultural values on the relationship between governance and risk in large-scale infrastructure development projects. It integrates cultural psychology theory into interactive governance theory as a moderator of managerial perceptions of external debt as an effective rule-based risk management framework for these projects.

Design/methodology/approach

Mixed method integrating quantitative analysis with qualitative insights based on a survey of managerial perceptions in large-scale renewable energy, road and rail projects in Kenya and linear regression was used to test the hypothesis.

Findings

Managerial perceptions of country risk, project-specific external debt structure, carbon risk and cultural values significantly influenced their infrastructure risk perceptions. Demographic factors such as gender, years of experience, project tenure, board membership and socio-economic settings moderately influenced these risk perceptions. With 597 responses, the study expands on interactive governance theory by showing that cultural values and certain demographic attributes among managers moderate their view of external debt as an effective rule-based risk management framework for large infrastructure projects.

Practical implications

Cultural values must be appraised when tailoring governance incentives to bolster managerial productivity and performance in mitigating risks in collaborative infrastructure projects.

Originality/value

This paper supports the hypothesis that cultural values moderate the interaction between governance and risk when the historical context incentivises managers to select defensive social learning techniques such as herding to avoid reputational performance risks in collaborative infrastructure projects.
Toward employee green creativity in the hotel industry: implications of green knowledge sharing, green employee empowerment and green values
Authors: Ansong Abraham , Andoh Raphael Papa Kweku , Ansong Linda Obeng , Hayford Cecilia , Owusu Nester Kumiwaa
Published: February 2025

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to investigate the implications of green knowledge sharing, green empowerment and participation and green values toward hotel employees’ green creativity.

Design/methodology/approach

Data was gathered from operational level employees of hospitality facilities Ghana. Through the partial least square structural equation modeling, bias-corrected and accelerated (BCa) confidence intervals obtained from 10,000 bootstrap subsamples were used to determine the significance of the hypothesized paths. This was preceded by examining the quality of the measurement and structural models.

Findings

It was established that green knowledge sharing is a positive predictor of green empowerment and participation. Green empowerment and participation also positively predicted employee green behavior and also partially mediated the link between green knowledge sharing and employee green behavior. Green values also positively moderated the connection green knowledge sharing has with employee green behavior.

Practical implications

To enhance the green creativity of their employees so that the sustainability objectives are attained, general managers in hotels should institute strategies that promote green knowledge sharing among their employees, ensure the green empowerment and participation of their employees and inculcate green values in their employees.

Originality/value

This study expands the hotel greening literature by establishing the mediating and moderating processes for employee green creativity which is underrepresented in the literature. Besides, it extends the social learning theory in a green context.
Entrepreneurial universities: a decision-making approach
Authors: Maral Muammer
Published: February 2025

Purpose

Entrepreneurship of universities has a critical role due to its important effects. However, there is a significant gap in the literature regarding the methodology for evaluating university entrepreneurship. Evaluating university entrepreneurship provides valuable information to policymakers and governments. This research presents an evaluation methodology for assessing university entrepreneurship using a hybrid multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) approach.

Design/methodology/approach

For this purpose, entrepreneurship data of 50 universities from Türkiye were used. The evaluation framework consists of 4 main criteria and 23 sub-criteria. The importance level was determined by weighting the main criterion and sub-criteria with the subjective Best-Worst Method (BWM) based on expert opinions and the objective CRiteria Importance Through Intercriteria Correlation (CRITIC) method. The importance levels were determined by weighting the main and sub-criteria using the subjective BWM based on expert opinions and the objective CRITIC method. The final rankings were obtained by integrating the different ranking values obtained with the Borda function.

Findings

Findings revealed that the most important main criterion in the entrepreneurship of universities is economic and social contribution activities, and the most important sub-criterion is international patents. The proposed method ranked all universities according to entrepreneurship. Sensitivity and validation analyses proved that the method is robust, stable and consistent.

Practical implications

This study also provides a new perspective to policymakers and decision-makers in evaluating university entrepreneurship.

Originality/value

This study, which uses a hybrid approach of MCDM methods to evaluate the entrepreneurship of universities, can be adapted to different national and regional higher education systems, and this study provides guidance to researchers in this regard.