bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Afterlife karmic beliefs and pro‐environmental consumption behaviours of egoistic consumers
Authors: Nguyen Hung Vu , Ta Loi Van , Do Van Thi Hong , Nguyen Phuong Thi Tung , Do Long Thanh
Published: February 2025

Previous literature has studied biospheric, altruistic and egoistic values as critical determinants of pro‐environmental consumption behaviours. However, while biospheric and altruistic values are evidenced as motivators of pro‐environmental attitudes and behaviours, academic understanding of the effects of egoistic values has remained incomplete. The aim of this study is to clarify the effects of egoistic values on pro‐environmental consumption behaviours by examining the moderating role of religious beliefs in karmic consequences for future lives (hereafter called afterlife karmic beliefs). Data were collected from 346 urban respondents in Vietnam. Confirmatory factor analysis was employed to assess measurement reliability and validity before established hypotheses were tested using hierarchical multiple regressions. As expected, the testing results supported the positive effects of biospheric and altruistic values on two pro‐environmental consumption behaviours, including electricity‐saving and green mobility mode choices. Conversely, egoistic values negatively affected the two behaviours, although only the effect on green mobility mode choices is statistically significant. The findings also showed significant moderating effects of afterlife karmic beliefs on the impacts egoistic values have on the two pro‐environmental consumption behaviours. Our findings thus expand the current academic understanding of the effects of values on pro‐environmental consumption adoption and imply some practical recommendations for practitioners in constructing a pro‐environmental consumption culture.
Unveiling SMAD family member 6 as a novel biomarker for prognosis and immunotherapy response in testicular germ cell tumors
Authors: Lin Huawei , Lin Xiaowen , Huang Peisheng , Yu Xiaoxue , Liu Jianming , Huang Liangliang , Wei Yanni , Chen Jiahong , Cai Zhouda , Zhang Le , Deng Junhong , Lin Zhuoyuan , Zheng Yu , Lu Jianming
Published: February 2025

Background and objectives

Despite its rarity, testicular germ cell tumor (TGCT) is commonly diagnosed in young males aged 20−40. In recent years, the global prevalence of TGCT has gradually increased, with 12−30% of patients experiencing relapse and metastasis. However, there are currently no reliable biomarkers for accurately predicting the prognosis of TGCT patients. Therefore, identifying novel biomarkers for risk stratification in TGCT is an immediate priority.

Materials and methods

Using TGCT samples from multiple centers, we identified a novel prognostic biomarker (SMAD family member 6 [SMAD6]) through differential expression analysis, Cox regression, and survival analysis. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) was then employed to evaluate SMAD6 expression levels in normal testicular tissues and TGCT samples. Finally, we examined the relationship between SMAD6 and its biological characteristics, mutation landscape, immune cell infiltration, and response to immunotherapy.

Results

Our study identified SMAD6 as a risk factor for TGCT prognosis. IHC revealed significant expression of SMAD6 in TGCT tissues. Functional enrichment analysis indicated that SMAD6 may contribute to the activation of tumor progression‐related pathways and suppression of immune‐related pathways. Additionally, high SMAD6 expression was correlated with reduced CD8+ T cell infiltration, while patients with low SMAD6 expression benefited more from immunotherapy.

Discussion and conclusions

This study highlights the potential of SMAD6 may be useful for TGCT prognosis and immunotherapy response prediction, offering a promising target for personalized medicine strategies.
Outcomes and prognostic factors associated with relapse after haploidentical stem cell transplantation for paediatric T‐cell acute lymphoblastic leukaemia
Authors: Zhao Chen , Xiao Meng‐Yu , Zhang Feng , Bai Lu , Hu Guan‐Hua , Suo Pan , Wang Feng‐Rong , Wang Zhi‐Dong , Mo Xiao‐Dong , Wang Yu , Zhang Yuan‐Yuan , Xu Lan‐Ping , Huang Xiao‐Jun , Cheng Yi‐Fei , Zhang Xiao‐Hui
Published: February 2025

The outcomes are poor for paediatric patients with T‐cell acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (T‐ALL) who relapse after haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). However, studies focusing on paediatric patients with T‐ALL following haploidentical HSCT (haplo‐HSCT) are limited. We retrospectively identified a consecutive cohort comprising of 128 paediatric T‐ALL after haplo‐HSCT from 2642 consecutive ALL patients between January 2010 and June 2022. The 2‐year overall survival and leukaemia‐free survival were 67.77% ± 4.21% and 66.34% ± 3.82%, respectively, and the cumulative incidence of relapse (CIR) and non‐relapse mortality were 33.82% ± 0.70% and 12.65% ± 0.46% respectively. According to the multivariate Cox regression analysis, CD34 cells, minimal residual disease (MRD) ≥0.01% before HSCT, chronic graft‐versus‐host disease (cGvHD) and cytomegalovirus were associated with relapse (p < 0.05). To develop a scoring system for stratifying patients, we combined the variables and stratified them into low (0–2 points) and high (3, 4) groups. Consequently, the 2‐year CIR in low and high groups were 23.76% ± 1.83% and 48.22% ± 2.42% (p = 0.009), respectively. Children with T‐ALL have poor long‐term survival, and haplo‐HSCT is a potent and safe treatment; however, the incidence of relapse is high. Eliminating pre‐HSCT MRD, guaranteeing sufficient CD34 cells infusion and the occurrence of cGvHD and cytomegalovirus reactivation may benefit from relapse.
Identification of new candidate drugs in myelodysplastic syndromes with splicing factor mutations by transcriptional profiling and connectivity map analysis
Authors: Sun Tianyu , Singh Shalini , Wang Hayson Chenyu , Lee Juseong , Dolatshad Hamid , Cheong Pak Leng , Higgs Douglas R. , Boultwood Jacqueline , Pellagatti Andrea
Published: February 2025

We sought to identify new candidate drugs for repurposing to myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS). Connectivity map analysis was performed on gene expression signatures generated from bone marrow CD34+ cells of splicing factor mutant MDS patients. Celastrol and Withaferin A (WA), two top‐ranking compounds identified, markedly inhibited proliferation, arrested the cell cycle and induced apoptosis in leukaemia cells. These compounds also inhibited the viability of primary bone marrow MDS cells. We showed that Celastrol and WA inhibit interleukin‐1 receptor‐associated kinase 4‐mediated nuclear factor kappa‐light‐chain‐enhancer of activated B cells signalling activation in splicing factor mutant MDS and leukaemia cells. Celastrol and WA may represent novel candidate drugs for the treatment of MDS.
Loss of Tapasin in Tumors Potentiates T‐Cell Recognition and Anti‐Tumor Effects of Immune Checkpoint Blockade
Authors: Moniwa Keigo , Tokita Serina , Sumi Toshiyuki , Saijo Hiroshi , Sugita Shintaro , Arioka Kotomi , Hirohashi Yoshihiko , Chiba Hirofumi , Kanaseki Takayuki , Torigoe Toshihiko
Published: February 2025

Tumors can evade host immune surveillance by compromising the intracellular antigen processing machinery (APM), such as beta 2 macroglobulin (β2m) or the transporter associated with antigen processing (TAP). Defects in the APM generally result in the downregulation of surface MHC class I (MHC‐I) levels. Here, we show that the downregulation of a component of the peptide loading complex (PLC), tapasin, in tumors conversely induces CD8+ T‐cell responses and inhibits tumor growth in vivo. Loss of tapasin enhanced the anti‐tumor effects of immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) in mouse non‐small cell lung and colon cancer models. In contrast to β2m‐deficient tumors, the reduced levels of MHC‐I in tapasin‐deficient tumors were restored by IFN‐γ treatment, allowing them to be recognized by CD8+ T cells. These results suggest the presence of a reactive CD8+ T‐cell fraction and the ability of immune surveillance to eliminate tumor variants with impaired tapasin expression.
Caregiver Experiences of a Peer Mentor Family Physical Activity Programme in England: A Qualitative Interview Study
Authors: Symes Rebecca , Jayes Leah , Orton Elizabeth
Published: February 2025

Background

Physical inactivity is a major risk factor for developing chronic disease and contributes to health inequalities. Many children and adults do not achieve recommended physical activity targets. Active Families was a pilot programme that aimed to increase physical activity in families in the East Midlands, UK, using volunteer peer mentor support. This study aimed to explore caregiver experiences of family physical activity in participants of the programme Active Families.

Methods

Qualitative, semi‐structured interviews were conducted with 13 caregiver participants of Active Families. Interview transcripts were explored using thematic analysis.

Results

Most caregivers reported increased family physical activity and improvements in health and relationships. Attitudes towards family physical activity became more positive and role modelling encouraged families to be active. Volunteer peer mentors aided families using behaviour change techniques and provided psychological, emotional and practical support. Volunteers maintained programme delivery during the coronavirus pandemic, and exercise was used by some as a coping strategy. Some older children did not engage well with the programme, and maintaining physical activity was a challenge for others.

Conclusion

Caregivers reported improved experiences of family physical activity, with positive impacts on wellbeing and family life reported. The family–volunteer relationship appeared to be key. Behaviour change techniques and providing holistic support should therefore be considered when designing family physical activity programmes. Further research is needed to understand how best to engage older children in family physical activity and ensuring physical activity is maintained.
Nano‐Structuring of Zirconia Implant Surfaces as an Approach to Improve Clinical Performance and Economic Efficiency—A Preclinical Study on Osseointegration
Authors: Rohr Nadja , Permuy Maria , Fischer Carolin , López‐Peña Mónica , Muñoz Fernando M. , Fischer Jens
Published: February 2025

Objectives

Nano‐structuring of zirconia dental implants would simplify the production process compared to the currently applied sandblasting and etching. Prior in vitro studies even revealed faster cell spreading and increased viability of osteoblasts on nano‐structured zirconia surfaces. The objective was to evaluate the osseointegration potential of nano‐structured zirconia implants in a sheep model.

Material and Methods

Three different nano‐structured surfaces were compared to a commercially available control (ZLA) by measuring the mean bone change (MBC) in radiographs and by histomorphometric analysis after 4 and 8 weeks in sheep. Radiographic and histomorphometric measurements were subjected to Kruskal‐Wallis ANOVAs to test the effects of surface and time point (α = 0.05).

Results

The overall MBC increased from implant placement to 4 (0.9 mm ± 0.8 mm) to 8 weeks (1.3 mm ± 0.7 mm) (p = 0.009) with no significant differences between the groups. Histological assessment revealed that bone‐to‐implant contact (BIC) was increased for the micro‐structured control surface compared with the nano‐structured surfaces at both time points. Bone remodeling was similar for all surfaces and increased from 4 to 8 weeks.

Conclusions

BIC in the sheep model is more dependent on surface roughness on a micro‐ than nano‐structured level, while bone remodeling in the present setup was not influenced by surface topography. Nano‐structured zirconia surfaces may be an option for clinical application; however, further research using loaded implants is needed to clarify whether BIC is sufficient to achieve long‐term stability.
A Review of Hand Eczema Subtypes: Clinical Features, Biomarkers and Treatment Strategies
Authors: Pesqué David , Silvestre‐Salvador Juan Francisco , Figueiredo Ana Carolina , Pujol Ramon Maria , Gonçalo Margarida , Giménez‐Arnau Ana María
Published: February 2025

Hand eczema is a common dermatological condition that significantly impairs quality of life. The classification of hand eczema has been considered an essential step for its management. The diagnosis of hand eczema relies on the aetiological and clinical features of hand lesions, a process complicated by the heterogeneous presentations and the considerable overlap among its subtypes. However, the investigation of hand eczema biomarkers and the advent of targeted therapies have shed light on the underlying pathogenic mechanisms. This review adopts a subtype‐specific approach to hand eczema, addressing clinical, pathogenic and therapeutic factors, with the aim of providing a comprehensive understanding of this heterogeneous condition from the perspective of its subtypes.
Virtual‐reality endoscopic navigation system in mediastinal natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery (with video)
Authors: Uesato Masaya , Umetsu Senri , Nakano Akira , Kinoshita Mayuko , Nakaguchi Toshiya , Matsubara Hisahiro
Published: February 2025

The approaches to mediastinal surgery are open thoracic, thoracoscopic, and mediastinoscopy. However, using natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery (NOTES) would be minimally invasive if the mediastinum is reached via the esophagus. One disadvantage of NOTES was no information outside the wall. We focused on the electromagnetic tracking solution. The sensor position in the space created by the magnetic field generator can be determined. We performed a computed tomography (CT) of a pig before constructing the target mediastinal organs in 3D. The pig was placed in the magnetic field space, and the endoscope with the sensor was subsequently inserted orally and synchronized with the 3D image. By simultaneously viewing the actual and the virtual endoscopic image in 3D, the mediastinum can be visualized through the esophagus. We determined six points in advance in the 3D images, and the esophageal lumen closest to the esophagus from the points was marked with a clip under the endoscope. The CT scans showed that the mean error between the clip position and the closest point from the target point to the esophagus was 4.7 mm across three trials. We named this system the virtual‐reality endoscopic navigation system (VENaS). VENaS can help determine the shortest distance to the point away from the esophagus and the 3D relation with the surrounding organs during esophageal endoscopy, and also displays gravity direction and an overhead view, thereby making it easy to approach areas with tumors or malformations in the mediastinum and increasing the realism of mediastinal NOTES.
Estimating healthcare resource utilisation and cardiovascular events in people with high body mass index and established cardiovascular disease
Authors: Pearson‐Stuttard Jonathan , Chan Mei Sum , Holloway Sara , Sommer Matthiessen Kasper , Thompson Andrew , Capucci Silvia
Published: February 2025

Aims

Obesity and its complications contribute to the burden of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Here, we characterised individuals with high body mass index (BMI) and established CVD by assessing healthcare resource utilisation (HCRU) and costs, incidence of cardiovascular (CV) events and mortality.

Materials and Methods

This was a retrospective open cohort study using UK Discover data (study period: January 2004 to December 2019). Included were individuals aged ≥45 years with BMI ≥ 27 kg/m2, without type 1 or type 2 diabetes, and with established CVD (previous myocardial infarction, stroke or peripheral artery disease). Serial annual cross sections were assembled to generate prevalence and incidence cohorts and for mapping of HCRU, costs and the incidence of selected events. CVD and mortality trajectories were modelled using a Markov model. HCRU and costs were layered onto this model to obtain associated trajectories.

Results

In 2019, annual per‐person healthcare costs for individuals with high BMI and established CVD (n = 27 313) were £3364. During 2015–2019, the incidence of major adverse CV events was 2812 per 100,000 person‐years; the incidences of all‐cause and CV mortality were 2896 and 774 per 100,000 person‐years, respectively. Over 2022–2031, this population is projected to accrue estimated healthcare costs of £40.8 million. HCRU trajectory drivers included a history of CV events, older age, and multimorbidity.

Conclusions

Owing to a high disease and treatment burden, people with a history of CVD living with high BMI incur substantial healthcare costs and are at risk of mortality.
Effectiveness of teaching Excel and Access using actual and simulated platforms – A comparative study
Authors: Mohebbi Esmail
Published: February 2025

Microsoft Excel and Access are widely used in introductory courses designed to teach the fundamentals of spreadsheet and relational database modeling skills in various disciplines. To achieve the targeted learning outcomes, instructors of these courses strive to provide students with guided, frequent, and incrementally fruitful practice with the software. Instructors often can facilitate such practice using the actual software or by employing a virtually simulated version of the software integrated into a learning management system. This article presents the results of a study that compared the effectiveness of using actual versus simulated Excel and Access environments as alternative or complementary instructional platforms in an introductory undergraduate course in information systems. The underlying study distinguished between instructor‐led guidance using the actual software and autonomous self‐paced instructions provided in the simulated environment while using multiple objective and subjective learning assessment tools. The mixed impacts of these scenarios promote a hybrid learning approach that uses both strategies to most effectively enhance students’ competency in Excel and Access.
Upstream Migration Dynamics of Juvenile American Eels (Anguilla rostrata) Towards a Hydropower Dam in a Large River
Authors: Eissenhauer Felix , Linnansaari Tommi , Pratt Thomas C. , Curry R. Allen , Harrison Philip M.
Published: February 2025

Young American eels (
Anguilla rostrata
) undergo a remarkable migration from oceanic spawning grounds to continental growth habitats. Impaired river connectivity can prevent facultatively catadromous eels from completing their upstream migration. The effects of barriers on the upstream migration dynamics of this endangered species remain poorly understood. This study evaluated the timing of juvenile eel migration and the spatial distribution and size/age structure of migrating eels within the tidal and hydropower‐regulated Wolastoq | Saint John River in Canada. Upstream eel migration in this river is restricted by the Mactaquac Dam and Generating Station, located 150 km upstream of the sea. Approximately 36,000 eels were caught with fyke nets at various locations between the river mouth and the Mactaquac Dam, measured for length, and a subsample (n = 401) was aged via sagittal otolith readings. While glass eels (not fully pigmented juvenile eels) were observed up to 90 km upstream, approximately 20 km beyond the point of saltwater intrusion, eels arriving at the Mactaquac Dam were exclusively fully pigmented, with 80% being continental age 1+ or 2+. The mean length of juvenile eels increased with distance upstream. These results indicate that upstream eel migration in the Wolastoq | Saint John River can take multiple years and involves phases of juvenile residency. Our study provides important insights into juvenile eel migration in large rivers and implications for effective management of passage success at barriers such as hydropower dams.
Association of heart rate variability, exercise intensity and exercising arrhythmias with competition results in eventing horses
Authors: Navas de Solis Cristobal , Ramseyer Alessandra , Stefanovski Darko , Haughan Joanne , Solomon Claire J. , Kirsch Katharina
Published: February 2025

Background

Exercising arrhythmias are common in horses participating in eventing competitions. Heart rate variability (HRV) and a specific measure of the degree of heart rate fluctuation (Detrended Fluctuation Analysis alpha1; DFA‐α1) are proposed as exercise intensity and fatigue markers.

Objectives

(1) To describe exercising arrhythmias and DFA‐α1 values during 2–4* level eventing cross‐country competitions in horses from two European countries; (2) to identify associations between exercising arrhythmias, DFA‐α1 and competition results and (3) to evaluate whether markers of the intensity of exercise are associated with exercising arrhythmias, DFA‐α1 or competition results.

Methods

A convenience sample of exercising ECGs and competition results from horses during cross‐country eventing competitions was examined. Statistical analysis was conducted using multivariable mixed‐effects logistic, Poisson and linear regression models.

Results

Arrhythmias were frequent during 69 cross‐country competition ECGs from 43 horses. Detrended fluctuation analysis α1 was not associated with performance during cross‐country, but a higher DFA‐α1 during cross‐country was associated with fewer showjumping phase penalties. More premature complexes, the presence of complex arrhythmias and arrhythmias during recovery were associated with fewer time penalties during cross‐country. The presence of complex arrhythmias and arrhythmias during recovery of the cross‐country phase was associated with more penalties during the showjumping phase. Higher blood lactate concentration, higher HRpeak and higher HRmean were associated with fewer time penalties during cross‐country.

Main Limitations

The arrhythmias observed do not allow conclusions to be drawn about the consequences of more severe arrhythmias. The associations described here were often of small magnitude or with large confidence intervals and must be interpreted cautiously.

Conclusions

Arrhythmias during the cross‐country test of eventing competitions were frequently associated with positive competition results during the cross‐country phase and negative results during the showjumping phase. The specific arrhythmia types and circumstances that should raise concern about performance and safety remain relevant but unanswered questions for equine practitioners.
Guideline for Novel Fine‐Grained Sentiment Annotation and Data Curation: A Case Study
Authors: Dai Wei , Kong Wanqiu , Shang Tao , Feng Jianhong , Wu Jiaji , Qu Tan
Published: February 2025

Driven by the rise of the internet, recent years have witnessed the gradual manifestation of commercial values of online reviews. In movie industry, sentiment analysis serves as the foundation for mining user preferences among diverse and multi‐layered audiences, providing insight into the market value of movies. As a representative task, aspect‐based sentiment analysis (ABSA) aims to analyse and extract fine‐grained sentiment elements and their relations in terms of discussed aspects. Relevant studies, particularly in the realm of deep learning research, face challenges due to insufficient annotated data. To alleviate this problem, we propose a guideline for fine‐grained sentiment annotations that defines aspect categories, describes the method for annotating aspect sentiment triplets, either simple or complex and designs a scheme to represent hierarchical labels. Based on this, an ABSA dataset tailored for the movie domain is curated by annotating on 1100 Chinese short reviews acquired from Douban. Applicability of both the annotation guideline and curated data is evaluated through inter‐annotator consistency and self‐consistency checks, and domain adaptation assessment of e‐commerce and healthcare cases. Predictive performance of machine learning models on this dataset shed light on possible applications in more fine‐grained sentiment analysis in the movie domain, for example, figuring out the aspects from which to stimulate viewership and influence public opinions, thereby providing substantial support for the movie's box office performance. Finally, we extended our fine‐grained sentiment annotation guideline to the e‐commerce and healthcare. Through empirical experimentation, we demonstrated the universality of these guideline across diverse domains.
Gut microbiota: our fellow travellers in health & disease
Authors: Cryan John F.
Published: February 2025

The last two decades have seen a major increase in our understanding of the role of the microbiome in health and disease. We now realise that these fellow travellers are really important regulators of various systems in the body across the lifespan. In this Special Issue, we bring together a collection of articles from leading authors who summarise the current state of the art of host–microbe interactions. While we celebrate the breakthroughs in microbiome science, we also acknowledge the challenges—variability in microbiota composition, the complexities of host–microbe interactions and the need for standardised methodologies. As research progresses, harnessing the power of the microbiome may pave the way for novel diagnostic and therapeutic strategies, reaffirming the notion that we are never alone—our microbial fellow travellers accompany us through life, for better or worse.
Tree Diversity Increases Carbon Stocks and Fluxes Above—But Not Belowground in a Tropical Forest Experiment
Authors: Schnabel Florian , Guillemot Joannès , Barry Kathryn E. , Brunn Melanie , Cesarz Simone , Eisenhauer Nico , Gebauer Tobias , Guerrero‐Ramirez Nathaly R. , Handa I. Tanya , Madsen Chris , Mancilla Lady , Monteza Jose , Moore Tim , Oelmann Yvonne , Scherer‐Lorenzen Michael , Schwendenmann Luitgard , Wagner Audrey , Wirth Christian , Potvin Catherine
Published: February 2025

International commitments advocate large‐scale forest restoration as a nature‐based solution to climate change mitigation through carbon (C) sequestration. Mounting evidence suggests that mixed compared to monospecific planted forests may sequester more C, exhibit lower susceptibility to climate extremes and offer a broader range of ecosystem services. However, experimental studies comprehensively examining the control of tree diversity on multiple C stocks and fluxes above‐ and belowground are lacking. To address this gap, we leverage data from the Sardinilla experiment in Panama, the oldest tropical tree diversity experiment, which features a gradient of one‐, two‐, three‐ and five‐species mixtures of native tree species. Over 16 years, we measured multiple above‐ and belowground C stocks and fluxes, ranging from tree aboveground C, over leaf litter C production, to soil organic carbon (SOC). We show that tree diversity significantly increased aboveground C stocks and fluxes, with a 57% higher gain in aboveground tree C in five‐species mixtures compared to monocultures (35.7 ± 1.8 vs. 22.8 ± 3.4 Mg C ha−1) 16 years after planting. In contrast, we observed a net reduction in SOC (on average −11.2 ± 1.1 Mg C ha−1 across diversity levels) and no significant difference in SOC3 stocks (the predominantly tree‐derived, i.e., C3 plant‐derived SOC fraction) between five‐species mixtures and monocultures (13.0 ± 0.9 vs. 15.1 ± 1.3 Mg C ha−1). Positive tree diversity effects persisted despite repeated climate extremes and strengthened over time for aboveground tree growth. Structural equation models showed that higher tree growth in mixtures enhanced leaf litter and coarse woody debris C fluxes to the soil, resulting in a tightly linked C cycle aboveground. However, we did not observe significant links between above‐ and belowground C stocks and fluxes. Our study elucidates the mechanisms through which higher tree diversity bolsters the climate mitigation potential of tropical forest restoration. Restoration schemes should prioritize mixed over monospecific planted forests.
Extreme Fire Spread Events Burn More Severely and Homogenize Postfire Landscapes in the Southwestern United States
Authors: McFarland Jessika R. , Coop Jonathan D. , Balik Jared A. , Rodman Kyle C. , Parks Sean A. , Stevens‐Rumann Camille S.
Published: February 2025

Extreme fire spread events rapidly burn large areas with disproportionate impacts on people and ecosystems. Such events are associated with warmer and drier fire seasons and are expected to increase in the future. Our understanding of the landscape outcomes of extreme events is limited, particularly regarding whether they burn more severely or produce spatial patterns less conducive to ecosystem recovery. To assess relationships between fire spread rates and landscape burn severity patterns, we used satellite fire detections to create day‐of‐burning maps for 623 fires comprising 4267 single‐day events within forested ecoregions of the southwestern United States. We related satellite‐measured burn severity and a suite of high‐severity patch metrics to daily area burned. Extreme fire spread events (defined here as burning > 4900 ha/day) exhibited higher mean burn severity, a greater proportion of area burned severely, and increased like adjacencies between high‐severity pixels. Furthermore, increasing daily area burned also resulted in greater distances within high‐severity patches to live tree seed sources. High‐severity patch size and total high‐severity core area were substantially higher for fires containing one or more extreme spread events than for fires without an extreme event. Larger and more homogenous high‐severity patches produced during extreme events can limit tree regeneration and set the stage for protracted forest conversion. These landscape outcomes are expected to be magnified under future climate scenarios, accelerating fire‐driven forest loss and long‐term ecological change.
Research on Plastic Mitigation Underestimates the Potential Land‐Use Impact of Bio‐Based Plastic Alternatives
Authors: Helm Levi T.
Published: February 2025

The impacts of plastic, including carbon emissions and plastic pollution, have significant negative impacts on human well‐being and the environment. Recent research suggests that these impacts could be mitigated by using biomass to create products with lower carbon emissions or that reduce pollution through biodegradation or composting. As the scale of the plastic problem is substantial, the amount of biomass required for mitigation could be large. Biomass may have benefits, but it also has risks, including the potential to cause significant land‐use change. Land‐use impacts are widely acknowledged in the literature on plastic mitigation but are often downplayed with assumptions that changes in policies, behaviors, agricultural productivity, and technology can ameliorate the most negative impacts. This paper reviews the assumptions made about land use in the literature on biomass‐based plastics and plastic alternatives. Current studies generally make optimistic assumptions about land‐use change or have limited ability to account for land‐use change impacts. These assumptions, including technological and agricultural advancement, along with idealized feedstock sourcing, minimize potential land‐use impacts. This paper demonstrates how reasonable projections based on the literature could require a considerable amount of biomass, equivalent to a 7%–13% increase in global crop demand in 2040. Further research investigating projections for biomass use and the assumptions in these estimates is required to better understand potential land‐use impacts from bio‐based plastic substitutes. This research is important for informing emerging policies, including the UN Treaty on plastic pollution. Establishing criteria and thresholds for the sustainability of bio‐based alternatives, as well as identifying potential negative outcomes, will be crucial to avoid setting out on a path with significant unintended and potentially unavoidable consequences.
Frequent hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) clearance during tenofovir therapy in persons with HIV/hepatitis B virus coinfection
Authors: Béguelin Charles , Surial Bernard , Hofmann Eveline , Begré Lorin , Munting Aline , Günthard Huldrych F. , Stöckle Marcel , Bernasconi Enos , Schmid Patrick , Calmy Alexandra , Suter‐Riniker Franziska , Rauch Andri , Wandeler Gilles ,   the Swiss HIV Cohort Study (SHCS)
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) loss is a rare event among persons with hepatitis B virus (HBV) monoinfection but seems to happen more frequently in people with HIV (PWH). We assessed the proportion of PWH/HBV coinfection who experienced HBsAg loss during long‐term tenofovir‐therapy and evaluated its association with quantitative HBsAg (qHBsAg) levels at tenofovir start.

Methods

All Swiss HIV Cohort Study participants with two or more positive HBsAg measurements more than 6 months apart, and at least 4 years of tenofovir‐containing antiretroviral therapy (ART), were considered. Our main outcomes were the loss of HBsAg during the first 2 years of tenofovir therapy and until the last available follow‐up. We explored the association between qHBsAg levels at tenofovir start and HBsAg loss using multivariable logistic regression adjusted for potential confounders.

Results

A total of 272 PWH and HBV coinfection were included. Median age was 41 years (IQR 36–46) and 81% (221) were men. At tenofovir start, 62% (169/272) received prior HBV active therapy, 49% (110/224) were hepatitis B e antigen (HBeAg)‐positive, 82% (222/272) had detectable HBV DNA (median 4.0 log10 IU/mL, IQR 2.1–7.5) and 19% (46/242) had low qHBsAg, defined as <1000 IU/mL. HBsAg loss was observed in 7% (19/272) of participants during the first 2 years of tenofovir‐containing ART and in 16% (43/272) after a median follow‐up time of 8.4 years (IQR 2.6–15.8). At the last follow‐up, 59% (16/27) of those with HBsAg loss had seroconverted for detectable anti‐HBs antibodies. In multivariable analyses, low qHBsAg at tenofovir start (OR 5.3, 95% CI 1.6–17.8) was a significant predictor of HBsAg loss.

Conclusion

We found high rates of HBsAg loss in PWH and HBV coinfection on long‐term tenofovir‐containing ART, most of whom had low qHBsAg at tenofovir start.
Answering key bumble bee conservation questions by studying discovered wild nests: A Bombus affinis case study
Authors: Smith Tamara A. , Boone Michelle , Choy Steven , Evans Elaine , Everett Jeffrey G. , Palmer Justin E. , Pearse Ian , Pugesek Genevieve , Sadd Ben M. , Szymanski Jennifer , Tessnow Ashley E. , Watson Jay C. , Mola John M.
Published: February 2025

The nesting ecology of wild bumble bees is not well resolved, but information learned from discovered nests can be of great conservation value.

Data collected at nests on foraging patterns, caste‐specific behaviour and health (e.g., pathogens) are invaluable for understanding bumble bee behaviour and ecology, but difficult to decipher solely from foraging observations away from the nest.

Post‐senescence nest excavation allows the estimation of colony size, caste numbers, documents pest incidence and provides opportunities to examine nest material for stressors (e.g., pesticides) and to use nest material for training purposes (e.g., conservation dogs).

Wild nests are often found opportunistically, and there is an absence of standardised guidance on data collection.

We provide an action plan to ensure the data collection is comparable across studies.

This framework includes key conservation questions and methodological guidelines for both for in situ and post‐season nest data collection and is ordered by increasing complexity of data collection methods.

To illustrate our framework, we provide an example with recently discovered Bombus affinis (rusty patched bumble bee) nests.

Through observations at B. affinis nests, we discovered novel patterns of activity, changing activity levels over time, the timing of male and gyne production, variable timing in nest senescence, and associations of nests with past rodent activity.

Although individual nest discoveries may be of limited value in forwarding conservation strategies, the aggregate collections of many similar datasets can be of critical importance for species of conservation concern.
How I Investigate Measurable Residual Disease in B‐Cell Precursor Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia After Therapy With Bi‐Specific Monoclonal Antibodies and 19CAR‐T Cells
Authors: Valerio Ikoma‐Colturato Maura Rosane , Furtado Felipe Magalhães , de Oliveira Elen , Gevert Fabiola , Mendonça Roberia ,   The Brazilian Society of Bone Marrow and Cell Therapy (SBTMO) MRD Working Group
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Measurable residual disease (MRD) in B‐cell precursor acute lymphoblastic leukemia (BCP‐ALL) following anti‐CD19 targeted therapies requires specific strategies to identify residual blast cells due to loss or reduced CD19 expression that makes it inconsistent as a primitive marker for B‐cell gating.

Objective

Due to the increased access of BCP‐ALL patients to therapies with CD3/CD19 bispecific T‐cell engagers (BiTe) and CD19‐targeted chimeric antigen receptor T‐Cell (CAR‐T), it is essential that flow cytometry laboratories are prepared to evaluate therapeutic responses.

Material and Methods

Here, validated strategies for MRD detection in the context of anti‐CD19 therapies are described, accessible to flow cytometry laboratories according to their different facilities. The paper includes an 8‐color flow cytometry (FC) strategy for BCP‐ALL MRD based on alternative gating without the use of additional markers (Euroflow protocol), as well as other strategies using alternative markers to CD19, comprising 2 protocols using 8 colors, one using 10 colors and another 14 colors/15 markers.

Conclusion

Different strategies are needed to detect MRD without using CD19 for B‐cell population gating after CD19‐targeted therapies. However, it is essential that validated protocols are used according to the available resources to ensure reliable results for clinical decision‐making.
Work Intensification, Work–Life Conflict and Turnover Intentions in the Teaching Profession: Evidence From School Teachers in Quebec, Canada
Authors: Nogues Sarah , Tremblay Diane‐Gabrielle
Published: February 2025

Teachers worldwide are expected to adapt to increasingly complex demands. Meanwhile, there is a shortage of qualified teachers in the profession. In this context, our paper explores the role of work intensification (WI) as a predictor of teacher turnover intention, an important antecedent that has never been explored amongst school teachers. The role of work–life conflict (WLC) is also considered, given the salience of this issue according to teacher unions. We distributed an online questionnaire to teachers from various sectors (preschool, primary, secondary, adult training, professional training and special education) through union listings and got 405 valid responses. We ran statistical analyses using PROCESS Macro v.4.2 for SPSS, and our results indicate a direct, significant and positive relationship between WI and intention to leave (p ≥ 0.001; R2 = 0.179). Moreover, we found that WLC interacts with WI in its impact on intention to leave (p ≥ 0.001; R2 = 0.191). Theoretical contributions are made using the job demands‐resources and conservation of resources theories, and practical implications for government and school leaders are discussed.
Modified Z‐scheme heterojunction of TiO2/polypyrrole recyclable photocatalyst
Authors: Milojković Natalija , Simović Bojana , Žunić Milan , Radovanović Lidija , Prekajski‐Đorđević Marija , Dapčević Aleksandra
Published: February 2025

A straightforward physical mixing method was used to prepare the highly efficient TiO2/polypyrrole (PPy) photocatalysts of hydrothermally prepared TiO2 and PPy, obtained by the chemical oxidative polymerization, with different amounts of PPy (0, 0.5, 1, 1.5, 3, and 5 wt.%). Synthesized composites were characterized by XRPD, FTIR, FESEM, EDS, BET, and UV–Vis methods, while their photocatalytic activity was estimated towards the degradation of toxic dye Reactive Orange 16 (RO16) based on UV–Vis and TOC. XRPD showed that the TiO2 was obtained as nanoanatase with crystallites of 26 nm. Band gap energies of the nanocomposites decreased with the PPy content increase from 3.11(3) to 2.94(3) eV. The TiO2/1%PPy demonstrated the highest photocatalytic activity by completely degrading RO16 for 120 min under simulated solar light with degradation described by the pseudo‐first reaction order with the rate constant of 0.056(5) min−1. It was established that 73% of the total reactive oxidative species were h+ and that the photodegradation mechanism followed a slightly modified direct Z‐scheme in which PPy played an active and irreplaceable role by opening a new reaction path. Besides extremely high photocatalytic efficiency, the recyclability of TiO2/1%PPy was confirmed since no decrease in efficiency was found after several runs of photocatalysis.
The Effect of Mind Map as a Prewriting Activity in Third Grade Elementary Students' Descriptive Narrative Creative Writing With a Writing E‐Portfolio
Authors: Mustika Melissa , Yeh Charles Y. C. , Cheng Hercy N. H. , Liao Calvin C. Y. , Chan Tak‐Wai
Published: February 2025

Background Study

The integration of mind maps as a prewriting activity has shown potential in enhancing students' writing skills, yet there is limited research focusing specifically on third‐grade elementary students' descriptive narrative creative writing within technology‐enhanced learning environments. The use of digital tools, such as writing e‐portfolios, has not been extensively explored in this age group, especially concerning their impact on continuous assessment and collaborative learning.

Objectives

This study aims to investigate the effectiveness of mind maps as a prewriting activity in improving third‐grade students' writing performance. It seeks to measure enhancements in writing fluency, flexibility, originality, elaboration, and sensitivity. Additionally, the study evaluates the role of writing e‐portfolios in supporting continuous assessment and collaborative learning among students.

Methods

Design: The study employed a quasi‐experimental design with two groups: an experimental group using mind maps and a control group. Instruments: Data collection instruments included pre‐ and post‐tests to assess writing performance, semi‐structured interview guides for qualitative data, and a digital platform for writing e‐portfolios. Data collection: Quantitative data were gathered through standardised writing assessments, while qualitative insights were collected via interviews and analysis of student writing e‐portfolio entries. Data analysis: Quantitative data were analysed using MANOVA and MANCOVA to identify differences between groups and to control for covariates. Linear regression analyses were conducted to determine the specific contributions of mind maps at different writing stages. Qualitative data were analysed to understand student's perspective on how mind map activities by using the Writing for Tomorrow system benefits their writing.

Results

The results demonstrated significant improvements in the experimental group's writing performance across all measured categories, including fluency, flexibility, originality, elaboration, and sensitivity. The analysis highlighted the substantial benefits of mind maps, particularly during the drafting and revision stages. The study also found that the use of writing e‐portfolios provided valuable support for continuous assessment and facilitated collaborative learning among students.

Conclusions

The findings suggest that incorporating mind maps as a prewriting activity can significantly enhance the descriptive narrative creative writing skills of third‐grade students. Moreover, the use of writing e‐portfolios contributes positively by offering a platform for continuous assessment and collaboration. This research underscores the importance of integrating visual and digital tools into elementary education to foster improved writing outcomes.
Cardiovascular Outcomes in Initial and Sustained Orthostatic Hypotension: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Geng Hui , Fang Dingfeng , Chen Xiahuan , Liu Meilin
Published: February 2025

Classic orthostatic hypotension (OH) is a common geriatric disorder and is associated with cardiovascular risk. There is so far too few data available on the prognostic importance of initial OH and the comparison with sustained OH. This study investigated cardiovascular outcomes in initial and sustained OH in a cohort of patients aged ≥50 years. The study included 435 participants; 94 (21.6%) patients had initial (43, 45.7%) or sustained (51, 54.3%) OH, diagnosed by an active orthostatic test using the CNAP monitor. The median follow‐up period was 65 months (inter‐quartile range, 30 to 71). One hundred and fifty‐nine (36.6%) of the patients had the primary outcome (a composite of major adverse cardiovascular events [MACE] and death from any cause), among which 142 (32.6%) had MACE, and 21 (4.8%) died. Analysis through Kaplan–Meier and further Cox regression models for multivariable adjustment both showed that, initial OH increased both the risk of the primary outcome and MACE (HR 2.20, 95% CI 1.39 to 3.50; HR 2.38, 95% CI 1.48 to 3.84), while didn't increase the mortality. In contrast, sustained OH increased both the risk of the primary outcome and MACE (HR 1.77, 95% CI 1.17 to 2.69; HR 1.71, 95% CI 1.09 to 2.70), as well as the mortality (HR 3.32, 95% CI 1.29 to 8.50). In conclusion, the preliminary exploration of this relatively small‐sample study indicates that, OH, no matter initial or sustained OH, increased the cardiovascular risk in patients aged ≥50 years, while only sustained OH increased the risk of mortality.
Associations of microRNA Gene Polymorphisms With Salt Sensitivity, Longitudinal Blood Pressure Changes, and Hypertension Incidence in the Chinese Population
Authors: Zhang Xi , Yao Shi , Wang Yang , Chu Chao , Du Mingfei , Mu Jianjun
Published: February 2025

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small endogenous RNA molecules that play an essential role in various disease processes including elevated blood pressure (BP). Although the effects of dietary salt and potassium intake on BP regulation have been established, their co‐interaction with miRNAs are still unclear. The purpose of the current study was to explore the connection between miRNA gene polymorphisms and BP response to salt and potassium intake, and the relationship between miRNA gene polymorphisms and long‐term BP changes and hypertension development. A total of 333 participants underwent a chronic sodium‐potassium dietary intervention trial, which included a 3‐day normal diet, followed by a 7‐day low‐salt diet, then a 7‐day high‐salt diet, and finally a 7‐day high‐salt with potassium‐supplemented diet. This cohort was subsequently followed for up to 14 years. Single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) rs115254818 in miR‐26b‐3p, rs11191676 and rs2292807 in miR‐1307‐5p, and rs4143957 in miR‐382‐5p were significantly correlated with systolic BP (SBP) and mean arterial pressure (MAP) responses to high‐salt intake, whereas rs11191676 and rs2292807 in miR‐1307‐5p exhibited significant associations with SBP response to potassium‐supplemented diet. Furthermore, SNPs rs2070960 in miR‐3620‐5p and rs12364149 in miR‐210‐3p demonstrated significant correlations with diastolic BP and MAP alterations at 14 years of follow‐up. Generalized linear mixed model analysis revealed a significant association between rs2070960 in miR‐3620‐5p and hypertension development over a 14‐year period. Our study indicates that miRNA gene polymorphisms are pivotal in the salt and potassium sensitivity of BP, as well as in the longitudinal BP progression and hypertension incidence.

Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT02734472