bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Active case finding using mobile vans equipped with artificial intelligence aided radiology tests and sputum collection for rapid diagnostic tests to reduce tuberculosis prevalence in rural China: protocol for a pragmatic trial
Authors: Wei Xiaolin , Liang Dabin , Zhang Zhitong , Thorpe Kevin , Zhou Lingyun , Zhao Jinming , Qin Huifang , Liang Xiaoyan , Cui Zhezhe , Huang Yan , Huang Liwen , Lin Mei
Published: December 2024

Background

Tuberculosis (TB) remains a significant public health challenge, particularly in rural areas of high-burden countries like China. Active case finding (ACF) and timely treatment has been proved effective in reducing TB prevalence but it is still unknown regarding the impact on TB epidemic when employing new technologies in ACF. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of a comprehensive ACF package utilizing mobile vans equipped with artificial intelligence (AI)-aided radiology, and GeneXpert testing in reducing TB prevalence among high-risk populations in rural Guangxi, China.

Methods

A pragmatic cluster randomized controlled trial will be conducted in two counties of Guangxi, China. The trial will randomize 23 townships to intervention or control groups at 1:1 ratio. The intervention group will receive a single ACF campaign in Year 1, incorporating mobile vans, AI-based DR screening, symptom assessment, and sputum collection for GeneXpert testing. Control group participants will receive usual care. TB patients identified in Year 1 will be required to complete TB treatment in Year 2. The primary outcome is the prevalence rate of bacteriologically confirmed TB among high-risk populations in Year 3. Process evaluation will explore adaption, acceptability and feasibility of the intervention. We will conduct incremental costing study to inform future scale-up of the intervention in other settings.

Discussion

This study will provide valuable insights into the effectiveness and feasibility of utilizing AI, mobile vans and GeneXpert for TB ACF to reduce TB prevalence in rural settings. If successful, this model will contribute to possible solutions to achieve the WHO End TB Strategy by 2035.

Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier -NCT06702774
Human iPSC-derived muscle cells as a new model for investigation of EDMD1 pathogenesis
Authors: Lisowska Marta , Rowińska Marta , Suszyńska Aleksandra , Bearzi Claudia , Łaczmańska Izabela , Hanusek Julia , Kunik Amanda , Dzianisava Volha , Rzepecki Ryszard , Machowska Magdalena , Piekarowicz Katarzyna
Published: December 2024

Emery-Dreifuss muscular dystrophy type 1 (EDMD1) is a rare genetic disease caused by mutations in theEMDgene, which encodes the nuclear envelope protein emerin. Despite understanding the genetic basis of the disease, the molecular mechanism underlying muscle and cardiac pathogenesis remains elusive. Progress is restricted by the limited availability of patient-derived samples, therefore there is an urgent need for human-specific cellular models.

In this study, we present the generation and characterization of induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) lines derived from EDMD1 patients carryingEMDmutations that lead to truncated or absent emerin, together with iPSCs from healthy donor. The patient-specific iPSCs exhibit stable karyotypes, maintain appropriate morphology, express pluripotency markers and demonstrate the ability to differentiate into three germ layers.

To model EDMD1, these iPSCs were differentiated into myogenic progenitors, myoblasts and multinucleated myotubes, which represent all stages of myogenesis. Each developmental stage was validated by the presence of stage-specific markers, ensuring the accuracy of the model. We present the first iPSC-basedin vitroplatform that captures the complexity of EDMD1 pathogenesis during myogenesis. This model can significantly contribute to understanding disease mechanisms and develop the targeted therapeutic strategies for EDMD1.
Using FoxP2 to Distinguish Direct and Indirect Basal Ganglia Pathways for Vocal Learning in Songbirds
Authors: Jagannathan Aditi , Nigudkar Mira , Bottjer Sarah W
Published: December 2024

Vocal learning in songbirds provides a powerful experimental model for motor skill learning. The cortico-basal ganglia pathways that mediate vocal learning in zebra finches (Taeniopygia guttata) are localized in two parallel circuits. These circuits traverse a cortical region (LMAN), a specialized region of the basal ganglia essential for vocal learning (Area X), and a region of dorsomedial thalamus (DLM). Area X, which contains both striatal and pallidal neurons, includes functional analogs of mammalian direct and indirect pathways that may have opposing effects and thereby increase or inhibit thalamic activity respectively. Direct pallidal neurons of Area X send inhibitory projections to DLM, whereas indirect pallidal neurons form intrinsic connections onto DLM-projecting neurons. We used tract-tracing techniques to label direct pallidal Area X→DLM projection neurons and immunohistochemical techniques to label neurons expressing the transcription factor FoxP2 in adult and juvenile male zebra finches. Our results showed that DLM-projecting neurons in Area X did not express FoxP2 in either adults or juveniles. We also observed a population of large neurons that expressed FoxP2 but were not retrogradely-labeled from DLM. A marker of striatal neurons (DARPP-32) did not co-localize with FoxP2 in most of these large neurons, providing evidence that they may form a class of putative indirect pallidal neurons. Our findings offer FoxP2 as a possible marker for indirect pallidal neurons and support the existence of different subpopulations of neurons that likely correspond to direct and indirect pathways within Area X.
Assessing the robustness of human ncRNA notations
Authors: Prasetyo Nadia K. , Gardner Paul P.
Published: December 2024

The HUGO Gene Nomenclature Committee (HGNC) is the only worldwide authority that assigns standardised nomenclature to human genes (1). All studies related to the human genome and genes worldwide should adhere to HGNC-approved gene names and symbols, emphasizing the importance of precise classification and naming. Recent studies have revealed the functional and clinical relevance of RNU2-2P, which is linked to neurodevelopmental disorders and cancer (2–4), underscoring the need to reassess the classification of pseudogenes and functional non-coding RNA genes. In this study, we explore the conservation and expression of genes from 15 small ncRNA families, including U1, U2, U4, U5, U6, U4ATAC, U6ATAC, U11, U12, Vault tRNA (VTRNA), Y RNA, tRNA, 7SL, U7, and 7SK, to identify non-coding RNA-derived pseudogenes that are under strong negative selection in the human genome. Our findings highlight three highly conserved and expressed pseudogenes—RNU2-2P, RNU1-27P, and RNU1-28P—that are likely misclassified, as existing evidence suggests they may play a role in disease research. This warrants a reevaluation of their status as pseudogenes. Additionally, we identified RNU5F-1, a functional copy of RNU5, which is lowly conserved and expressed, yet its classification as a functional gene raises questions about its potential role. Furthermore, other pseudogenes and functional ncRNAs that could also be misclassified were identified, suggesting the necessity for further experimental and clinical examination.
Time-resolved cryo-EM (TRCEM) sample preparation using a PDMS-based microfluidic chip assembly
Authors: Feng Xiangsong , Frank Joachim
Published: December 2024

Time-resolved cryo-EM (TRCEM) makes it possible to provide structural and kinetic information on a reaction of biomolecules before the equilibrium is reached. Several TRCEM methods have been developed in the past to obtain key insights into the mechanism of action of molecules and molecular machines on the time scale of tens to hundreds of milliseconds, which is unattainable by the normal blotting method. Here we present our TRCEM setup utilizing a polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS)-based microfluidics chip assembly, comprising three components: a PDMS-based, internally SiO2-coated micromixer, a glass-capillary microreactor, and a PDMS-based microsprayer for depositing the reaction product onto the EM grid. As we have demonstrated in recent experiments, this setup is capable of addressing problems of severe sample adsorption and ineffective mixing of fluids, and leads to highly reproducible results in applications to the study of translation. As an example, we used our TRCEM sample preparation method to investigate the molecular mechanism of ribosome recycling mediated byHigh frequency of lysogenizationX(HflX), which demonstrated the efficacy of the TRCEM device and its capability to yield biologically significant, reproducible information. This protocol has promise to provide structural and kinetic information on pre-equilibrium intermediates in the 10-1000 ms time range in applications to many other biological systems.

Key features

Design and fabrication of high-performance splitting-and-recombination-based micromixer and planar microsprayer.

Protocol for SiO2coating on the PDMS surface and fabrication of the microfluidic chip assembly.

Preparation of time-resolved cryo-EM sample in the time range of 10 – 1000 ms.

Data collection on EM grid covered with droplets from the microsprayer.
Generation of a Transgenic Mouse Model for Investigating Mitochondria in Sperm
Authors: Sarkar Hironmoy , Batta Suryaprakash R , Wadhwa Neerja , Majumdar Subeer S , Pradhan Bhola Shankar
Published: December 2024

Mitochondria play a crucial role in the sperm development; however, the mechanisms regulating their function in sperm remain poorly understood. Developing a method to regulate the expression of a target gene within the mitochondria of sperm is a vital step in this area of research. In this study, we aimed to create a system for expressing a transgene in the mitochondria of sperm. As a proof of concept, we generated transgenic mice that express green fluorescent protein (GFP) fused with a mitochondrial localization signal (MLS) driven by the phosphoglycerate kinase 2 (PGK2) promoter, which facilitates the transgene expression in the sperm. Although the PGK2 promoter has previously shown to drive gene expression in spermatocytes and spermatids, the novelty of our approach lies in the combination of PGK2-driven MLS-GFP expression to study mitochondriain vivo. We established two founder lines of transgenic mice through pronuclear microinjection, and MLS-GFP expression was confirmed in the mitochondria of sperm cells using fluorescence microscopy and flow cytometry. Consequently, we provide a novel platform for investigating mitochondrial function in sperm, where GFP can be substituted with other genes of interest to examine their effects on mitochondria. This system specifically targets sperm mitochondria, offering an innovative approach for studying mitochondrial functionin vivo.
Neutrino charge radius and additional one-loop radiative corrections at ultranear reactor experiments
Authors: Brdar Vedran , Leite Leonardo J. Ferreira , Parker George A. , Xu Xun-Jie
Published: December 2024

We scrutinize the potential of upcoming ultranear reactor neutrino experiments to detect radiative corrections in the elastic neutrino-electron scattering channel, focusing on the JUNO-TAO and CLOUD detectors, which employ advanced scintillator detection technologies. Previous reactor experiments have already constrained the electron neutrino charge radius, which is a neutrino property associated with a certain subset of the total radiative corrections, and have achieved limits that are only about an order of magnitude away from the Standard Model prediction. Our study demonstrates that JUNO-TAO and CLOUD could discover the neutrino charge radius in the near future, considering the established treatment of the charge radius. However, we show that it is necessary to go beyond this standard treatment. By including the complete set of one-loop level radiative corrections, we find a partial cancellation with the charge radius effect, reducing the experimental sensitivity to this quantity. Nevertheless, JUNO-TAO and CLOUD still have the potential to achieve a 5σ discovery but over longer timescales within a reasonable operational time frame.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
CFT constraints on parity-odd interactions with axions and dilatons
Authors: Corianò Claudio , Lionetti Stefano
Published: December 2024

We illustrate how the conformal Ward identities in momentum space completely determine the structure of a parity-odd three-point correlator involving currents, energy-momentum tensors, and at least one scalar operator in d=4. Conformal invariance fixes almost all such possible correlators to vanish. The only exceptions are given by the ⟨JJO⟩odd and the ⟨TTO⟩odd which in momentum space are protected by chiral and conformal anomalies. Specifically, one can obtain a nonvanishing solution by considering scalar operators such as O=∇·JA, O=gμνTμν, or their shadow transforms. We comment on the implications of these results that constrain the coupling of axions and dilatons in a conformal phase of the early universe.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Collective mode across the BCS-BEC crossover in Holstein model
Authors: Park Tae-Ho , Choi Han-Yong
Published: December 2024

We investigate the emergence of the collective mode in the phonon spectra of the superconducting state within the Holstein model by varying the electron-phonon coupling. Using dynamical mean field theory combined with the numerical renormalization group technique, we calculate the phonon spectra. In the superconducting state with a pairing gap (ΔP), the peak position of the collective mode (ωcol) evolves from the Bardeen-Cooper-Schrieffer (BCS) regime, manifesting near 2ΔP and increasing with coupling, to the Bose-Einstein condensation (BEC) regime, where ωcol decreases with increasing coupling. The decrease of ωcol matches well with the reduction of superfluid stiffness, which originates from the increasing phase fluctuations of local pairs with coupling strength. In the crossover regime with intermediate coupling, ωcol aligns with the soft phonon mode (ωs) of the normal state and decreases with increasing coupling when ωs<2ΔP. Additionally, comparing the collective mode weight to ΔP suggests that the collective mode predominantly stems from U(1) gauge symmetry breaking across all coupling strengths.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
The crystal structures of methyl prop-2-ynoate, dimethyl fumarate and their protonated species
Authors: Hollenwäger Dirk , Bockmair Valentin , Kornath Andreas J.
Published: December 2024

Methyl prop-2-ynoate (C4H4O2) was investigated in the binary superacidic system HF/MF5 (M = Sb or As) and dimethyl fumarate (C6H8O4) in the superacidic system HF/SbF5, as well as HF/BF3. The starting materials methyl prop-2-ynoate and dimethyl fumarate were crystallized, the former for the first time. The protonated species of these esters, namely, (1-methoxyprop-2-yn-1-ylidene)oxidanium hexafluoroarsenate, C4H5O2
+ AsF6
−, 1,4-dimethoxy-4-oxobut-2-en-1-ylidene]oxidanium tetrafluoroborate bis(hydrogen fluoride), C6H9O4
+ BF4
− 2HF, and hemi{[1,4-dimethoxy-4-oxidaniumylidenebut-2-en-1-ylidene]oxidanium} undecafluorodiantimonate, 0.5C6H10O4
2+ Sb2F11
−, were characterized by single-crystal X-ray diffraction and Raman spectroscopy. The protonated species were recrystallized from anhydrous hydrogen fluoride. In the solid state of the monoprotonated species of methyl prop-2-ynoate and the diprotonated species of dimethyl fumarate, strong intramolecular O—H...F hydrogen bonds build a three-dimensional network. The monoprotonated species of dimethyl fumarate builds chains by strong O—H...O hydrogen bonds between the cations.
Impact of the perceived value and perceived risk on consumers’ purchase behavior of suboptimal food
Authors: Zhong Yingqi
Published: December 2024

Purpose

This study aimed to understand the factors influencing consumers’ purchase behavior of different types of suboptimal food and to provide references for promoting the consumption of suboptimal food and reducing suboptimal food waste in the consumption process.

Design/methodology/approach

This study analyzed the influence of perceived value and perceived risk on consumers’ purchase behavior for three types of suboptimal food. They include food nearing expiration date, food with defective packaging and food with ugly appearance. Specifically, expenditure saving and food waste reduction of perceived value, health risk, time cost and psychological distress of perceived risk were analyzed using a multivariate probit model. Additionally, the moderating effect of suboptimal food knowledge was tested.

Findings

Perceived value of saving money and reducing food waste positively influences consumers’ decision to purchase suboptimal food. Perceived risk of psychological distress and health risk negatively affect consumers’ decisions to purchase suboptimal food. Consumers are more sensitive to perceived value than perceived risk when purchasing food with defective packaging. However, perceived risk has a greater impact on the food that is nearing its expiration date. The impact of perceived risk on the purchase of food with an ugly appearance decreases when consumers are familiar with suboptimal food.

Originality/value

By applying the theory of perceived value and perceived risk from psychology, this study contributes to deepen the understanding of consumers’ motivation to purchase suboptimal food. The results provide recommendations for food sector actors on how to motivate consumers on their way to buy suboptimal food.
Designing your own job: how protean mindset and adaptability resources shape the modern workplace
Authors: Kundi Yasir Mansoor , Lo Presti Alessandro , Khan Hira
Published: December 2024

Purpose

As employees face increased turbulence due to uncertain economic and organisational conditions, they are nowadays pushed to be proactive in both their jobs and careers in terms of heightened customisation, adaptability and flexibility. Drawing from the career construction theory, we examine the reciprocal associations of a contemporary career orientation among employees to customise one’s own career (i.e. protean career orientation) vs one’s own job (i.e. job crafting behaviours) as well as the boundary conditions due to the levels of career adaptability.

Design/methodology/approach

We conducted a cross-lagged study with three waves using data collected from a sample of Polish employees. The data were analysed using structural equation modelling in AMOS.

Findings

Results from a cross-lagged panel study with 168 participants revealed a bidirectional relationship between protean career orientation and job crafting behaviours. The results also confirmed the moderating role of career adaptability between these two variables.

Originality/value

This research is one of the first to examine a reciprocal relationship between protean career orientation and job crafting. Moreover, it examines the moderating role of career adaptability in the aforementioned association.
A framework to integrate indigenous knowledge into disaster risk reduction to build disaster resilience: insights from rural South Africa
Authors: Motsumi Masego Mirriam , Nemakonde Livhuwani David
Published: December 2024

Purpose

For millennia, indigenous or local knowledge (IK) has empowered rural communities particularly the most vulnerable and disadvantaged groups to prepare for, cope with and survive disasters instead of relying on external help only. However, this knowledge has been ignored by practitioners and policymakers in favour of Western science and technology-based methods of disaster risk reduction (DRR) and response. This paper proposes a framework for integrating IK into DRR because we believe the simultaneous use of IK and modern DRR measures could increase the resilience of rural communities.

Design/methodology/approach

The study finds solace in the pragmatism research philosophy which places emphasis on practical solutions and outcomes. The study followed a phenomenological approach of qualitative research with a total of 109 respondents participating in the study. The collected data were analysed thematically.

Findings

Participants in the study provided key insights into areas of interventions for improved integration of IK into DRR and these include, trust-building initiatives, recording and systematise traditional practices, developing localised, context-specific approaches to DRR planning and engaging traditional leaders, and increasing their participation in decision-making forums. We submit that the blending of modern and traditional techniques has the potential to create robust, adaptive systems for disaster preparedness, response and recovery, leading to safer and more resilient communities.

Originality/value

Pursuing an integrated approach to the use of IK and modern expert knowledge on DRR would be a step forward in addressing the fragmentation of the two knowledge systems.
Impact of state capacity on entrepreneurship: does national developmental and technological level matter?
Authors: Tipu Syed Awais Ahmad , Hussain M. Azhar , Sarker Abu Elias
Published: December 2024

Purpose

The current study empirically examines the influence of state capacity on entrepreneurship.

Design/methodology/approach

This research draws upon the national measures of 118 countries and employs a more robust measure of state capacity.

Findings

The findings show a positive correlation between state capacity and entrepreneurship. However, the results reveal that the effect of state capacity on entrepreneurship is stronger in developing low-technology nations compared to developed high-technology nations.

Research limitations/implications

When available, future research could employ more recent data to estimate the effects of state capacity on entrepreneurship. In addition to developmental and technological levels, various other factors can also be explored such as national culture and welfare regime type.

Practical implications

The current study enables policymakers to identify factors critical in developing state capacity. Policymakers can also have better-tailored approaches for developing targeted initiatives and establishing entrepreneurship-supportive regulative institutional arrangements.

Originality/value

Available literature lacks in empirically examining the influence of state capacity on entrepreneurship. The current study attempts to fill this gap.
An integrated model to predict students’ online learning behavior in emerging economies: a hybrid SEM–ANN approach
Authors: Mathur Smriti , Tewari Alok , Vishnoi Sushant , Agarwal Vaishali
Published: December 2024

Purpose

The online learning environment is a function of dynamic market forces constantly restructuring the e-learning landscape’s complete ecosystemcape. This study aims to propose an e-learning framework by integrating the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) and Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB) to predict students’ Online Learning Readiness and Behaviour.

Design/methodology/approach

A structured questionnaire was used to collect data from 406 students through a survey. The data were analysed using two-stage structural equation modelling and artificial neural network (ANN).

Findings

The study’s results revealed that perceived ubiquity (PUB) positively influences perceived ease of use, usefulness and attitude. Similarly, perceived mobility significantly influences perceived ease of use and attitude. Furthermore, attitude, subjective norms, perceived behavioural control and perceived usefulness significantly influence readiness to learn online, which further influences students’ online learning behaviour. The root-mean-square error (RMSE) values obtained from the ANN analysis indicate the models’ predictive solid accuracy.

Originality/value

The study contributes to the existing literature by proposing an Online Learning Behaviour Model by integrating the TAM and the TPB frameworks in association with two additional constructs, PUB and Perceived Mobility. Secondly, this study proposes a unique triangulation framework of recommendations for learners, educators and policymakers.
Elevating service research in Africa
Authors: Heinonen Kristina , Adeola Ogechi
Published: December 2024

Purpose

This study aims to assess the current state of service research in Africa, with the goal of identifying key areas for improvement. By examining both existing and emerging studies conducted by African researchers and those focused on Africa, the study seeks to advance research efforts that will benefit Africa’s service sector and its researchers.

Design/methodology/approach

This research combines a literature review of articles published in leading service journals by African-affiliated researchers with a qualitative study among African researchers conducting service research.

Findings

The findings highlight the micro-, meso- and macro-level implications for service research in Africa. The research develops a thoughtful reflection on service research and practice in Africa, considering both the unique challenges and opportunities of conducting service research in Africa, and offering insights for growth and development in the field.

Research limitations/implications

The focus was only on service research from the African perspective. This research has implications for how African-affiliated researchers can enhance their contributions to global service research, as well as how scholars worldwide can conduct service research within the African context.

Practical implications

This study highlights how advancing service research in Africa can drive economic and social growth and identify actionable pathways for sustainable development. By focusing on the contributions of African researchers, the study provides insights that can inform policy, industry practices and educational institutions and that are tailored to the region’s unique service landscape.

Social implications

The research highlights the importance of contextual grounding, inclusive collaboration and knowledge translation to deepen the understanding of localized challenges and solutions.

Originality/value

This article stands out by showcasing the distinctive perspectives of African scholars in service research, an area often underrepresented globally. It underscores the value of indigenous research in enhancing our understanding of Africa’s service economy and positions these insights as essential to advancing both local and global service research agendas.
From loss-making to profit-generated units: Haryana power discoms as a benchmarking model
Authors: Singh Kamaljit , Kaur Jasvinder , Vashishtha Simmi
Published: December 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to conduct a critical review of the operational and financial trends of Uttar Haryana Bijli Vitran Nigam Limited and Dakshin Haryana Bijli Vitran Nigam Limited. Furthermore, the study aims to determine whether loss-making utilities would benefit from adopting the strategic model employed by Haryana.

Design/methodology/approach

Time series data from 2005–2006 to 2022–2023 is analysed using various significant accounting ratios and operational and financial performance parameters to assess the annual performance over the period.

Findings

The substantial operational and financial performance results of UHBVNL and DHBVNL indicate that from 2017 to 2018 onwards, the power discoms started performing well and are in an improving stage. These results create a strong profile for the utilities, suggesting that their model could be a viable solution for other loss-making power distribution companies.

Practical implications

As a policy recommendation, rather than privatizing the discoms, authorities should study the strategic model of profit-making states like Haryana and implement it in other states without any political interference.

Originality/value

The relevant research questions addressed are: What best practices have Haryana power discoms adopted to enhance financial performance and minimize losses? What lessons can other loss-making state-owned power discoms learn from Haryana? Can Haryana power discoms be a benchmarking model for public and private discoms operating at a loss?
Functional traits of plant roots and Collembola determine their tri‐trophic interactions with soil microbes
Authors: Brousseau Pierre‐Marc , Forey Estelle , Santonja Mathieu , Chauvat Matthieu
Published: December 2024

Traditionally, leaf litter has been recognized as the main driver of the soil food web, but more recently roots have been shown to play an important role in fuelling soil organisms. Root functional traits were shown to have direct effects on microbes and Nematoda, but many knowledge gaps remain such as the effects of root traits on Collembola.

Here, in a microcosm experiment, we studied the tri‐trophic interactions between roots, microbes and Collembola in relation to 10 plant species individually. Eleven root traits were measured to test whether they have an influence on Collembola and microbe community structure and Collembola functional structure based on six traits. The interactions between microbes and Collembola were also tested.

Our results show that plant species identity significantly influences the structure of Collembola communities, and this variation is primarily explained by root traits and microbial communities. Collembola feeding traits based on mandibular morphology were useful to identify top‐down control on microbial communities. Our study also suggests that root traits such as fine root length and root diameter modify Collembola–microbe interactions, hypothetically by modifying soil porosity.

Overall, we obtained better results by looking at the whole system, rather than looking at bi‐trophic interactions. This illustrates the importance of a holistic approach when studying biotic interactions in soil ecosystems.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
Accounting for interspecies and intraspecies variation in swimming performance for fish passage solutions
Authors: Crawford Rachel M. B. , Gee Eleanor , Hicks Brendan , Nolte Dana , Dupont Deborah , Franklin Paul A.
Published: December 2024

Across the globe, there are millions of in‐stream structures that fragment the world's river networks, acting as barriers that can impede the movements of fish. Designing effective solutions to accommodate fish communities requires information about the swimming abilities and behaviours of all species. This should account for different swimming modes, abilities, behaviours, and niches.

We investigated the swimming speeds of nine migratory New Zealand species to assess both inter‐ and intraspecies variation. We then calculated maximum traversable speeds for culverts of a given length, based on the endurance abilities of our lowest performing species (Galaxias maculatus).

Our findings reveal significant inter‐ and intraspecies variation in swimming speeds. Among the species studied, Galaxias brevipinnis, Galaxias argenteus, and Galaxias postvectis were the strongest swimmers. In contrast, Galaxias maculatus was one of the weakest swimmers. Body length positively correlated with Umax indicating that fish passage barriers select against the weakest swimming species, as well as smaller individuals within a species.

Maximum water speeds in a culvert must be lower than 0.3 m s−1, the previously assumed standard rule‐of‐thumb for New Zealand, to provide adequate passage for a high proportion of a weak‐swimming indicator species (Galaxias maculatus).

Synthesis and applications. Previous maximum traversable water speeds for fish passage designs have been based on average swimming ability, but this approach only enables fish that are better than the average swimmers of their species to overcome barriers. This study highlights the importance of evidence‐based designs for successful fish passage solutions to account for the ability of all fish. By considering differences between and within species, rather than assuming a ‘one‐size‐fits‐all’ approach we can develop more effective passage solutions that better preserve fish communities.
Avian seed dispersal out of the forests: A view through the lens of Pleistocene landscapes
Authors: González‐Varo Juan P.
Published: December 2024

Recent evidence supports that, prior to the impact of modern humans, the temperate zone of Europe was not dominated by a closed continuous forest, but consisted of heterogeneous landscapes with grasslands, light woodlands and forests. Until the late Pleistocene, this region held a diverse community of megaherbivores that maintained the open and semi‐open vegetation through grazing and browsing.

This new baseline is congruent with the fact that many European woody species are light‐demanding and fail to regenerate in the shaded interiors of temperate forests. Notably, most of these species are dispersed by frugivorous and seed‐caching animals, mostly birds.

Nowadays, avian seed dispersers play a key role for the connectivity and expansion of woodland patches in fragmented anthropogenic landscapes. Indeed, avian seed dispersal within and across the deforested matrix is the norm rather than the exception.

Here, I reflect on the current patterns of avian seed dispersal in the fragmented anthropogenic landscapes of Europe from a Pleistocene perspective. The aim of this exercise is to discuss linkages between past and present landscapes, seeking an historical understanding of the high spatial complementarity of avian seed dispersal in and out of the forests.

Synthesis: I conclude that the spatial patterns of avian seed dispersal in anthropogenic landscapes are congruent with an ecological and evolutionary history with open and semi‐open habitats created and maintained by megaherbivores (ecological memory). By shaping the environmental conditions for millions of years, megaherbivores would have created selective pressures on animals and plants for life in landscape mosaics with forests and open habitats (niche construction). Finally, I discuss differences in landscape patterns today and in the Pleistocene, as well as the generality of these ideas to other biogeographical regions.
How do masses react to party polarization? Limited effect of party polarization on mass polarization
Authors: ÇAKıR SEMIH
Published: December 2024

Elite ideological polarization is rising in Western democracies. Is this elite ideological polarization associated with mass ideological polarization? I argue that when a party adopts a more extreme position, the masses polarize via two mechanisms. In‐partisans should follow the party and adopt a more extreme ideological stance while out‐partisans should backlash and move in the opposite direction. To test these expectations, I exploit a real‐world sudden party polarization when the Labour Party of the United Kingdom suddenly shifted to the left under new leadership. Using British Election Study Internet Panel data, I find limited evidence that elite polarization leads to mass polarization. Overall, neither in‐partisans followed the party, nor out‐partisans backlashed to it. Only ideologically out‐of‐touch in‐partisans adjusted their ideological stance to match their party, indicating the effectiveness of partisan cues, nonetheless. These findings provide insight into how the masses react to increasing party polarization, alleviating pundits' concerns that the masses are blind followers and bound to polarize if political parties polarize.
Criterion validity of the Global Leadership Initiative on Malnutrition criteria for malnutrition diagnosis compared with the Subjective Global Assessment: Results from a large observational study
Authors: O'Connor Jackie , van Veenendaal Nicholas , Gallo Rebecca , Griffin Hilda
Published: December 2024

Aim

The aim of this study was to assess the criterion validity of the Global Leadership Initiative on Malnutrition criteria compared to the subjective global assessment in a diverse inpatient population.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study was a retrospective analysis of point prevalence audit data. The prevalence of malnutrition determined by the Global Leadership Initiative on Malnutrition criteria was compared to the Subjective Global Assessment. Validity statistics were determined using all of the Global Leadership Initiative on Malnutrition criteria concurrently as well as each pair that could be used to diagnose malnutrition. Subgroup analysis was undertaken based on severe malnutrition, treatment group, age and body mass index.

Results

Nine hundred and eighty‐one patients were included (65.1 ± 18.6 years, 54.8% male). The prevalence of malnutrition was 36.7% using the Subjective Global Assessment and 36.1% using the Global Leadership Initiative on Malnutrition criteria. More patients were classified as severely malnourished using the Global Leadership Initiative on Malnutrition criteria (9.8% vs. 6.0%), whilst more rehabilitation patients were classified as malnourished using the Subjective Global Assessment (42.2% vs. 33.6%). The criterion validity of the Global Leadership Initiative on Malnutrition criteria was good, with a sensitivity of 92.5% (95% CI 90.9–94.2) and specificity of 96.6% (95% CI 95.5–97.8). There was a downward trend in sensitivity with increasing body mass index and a lower sensitivity in the rehabilitation population. The criterion validity was fair at best when each pair of the Global Leadership Initiative on Malnutrition criteria was considered independently of other criteria.

Conclusions

When all criteria are considered concurrently, the Global Leadership Initiative on Malnutrition criteria present good criterion validity and can be applied in clinical practice to diagnose malnutrition.
Assessing spider community structure and ecological dynamics across urban and natural environments
Authors: Do Yuno , Kim Dae‐Hee , Park Woong‐Bae , Park Siae , Lee Ji‐Eun , Kim Baek‐Jun
Published: December 2024

This study explores the diversity and distribution of spider populations across urban and natural‐semi natural habitats in Gongju‐si, South Korea. This study aims to investigate the ecological dynamics of spider populations across different habitat types and assess their implications for urban planning, particularly in terms of maintaining biodiversity through habitat heterogeneity and informed urban development strategies. Employing methodologies such as sweeping, manual collection, and pit‐fall traps, the research identifies 128 spider species and evaluates alpha and beta diversity, nestedness, and species interactions using advanced statistical and ecological tools. The findings indicate significant variations in spider diversity across different habitats, with urban areas exhibiting notable biodiversity despite human influences. Natural habitats, especially forests, demonstrate higher biodiversity and more intricate species interactions. Nestedness analysis reveals distinct community structures across habitats, while association rule learning highlights complex interspecies relationships. The study underscores the importance of maintaining habitat heterogeneity and incorporating ecological principles in urban planning to support biodiversity. It offers valuable insights into the roles of various habitats in ecological networks, emphasizing the necessity for balanced urban development and effective conservation strategies.
Climate and Socio‐Sexual Environment Predict Interpopulation Variation in Chemical Signaling Glands in a Widespread Lizard
Authors: Romero‐Diaz Cristina , Gómez Ramírez Fernando , Aguilar Prem , Marešová Petra , Font Enrique , Pérez i De Lanuza Guillem
Published: December 2024

Many animal species show considerable intraspecific phenotypic variation. For species with broad distributions, this variation may result from heterogeneity in the strength and agents of selection across environments and could contribute to reproductive isolation among populations. Here, we examined interpopulation variation in a morphological trait related to chemical communication, femoral pore number (FP), using 3437 individuals from 55 Pyrenean populations of the common wall lizard (Podarcis muralis). Specifically, we tested the relative roles of genetic relatedness and gene flow, and adaptation to local conditions in generating this variation, with particular interest in the influence of climate and the socio‐sexual environment (i.e., the intensity of sexual selection, estimated using sexual size dimorphism [SSD] and adult sex ratio as proxy measures). We found significant interpopulation variation and sexual dimorphism in FP, as well as high genomic differentiation among populations driven by both geographic and environmental distances. Specifically, FP differences across populations were best predicted by a combination of positive allometry and the local intensity of sexual selection, as determined by SSD, or local climatic conditions. Higher FP in more male‐competitive environments, or with higher temperature and vegetation complexity, is consistent with adaptation to maintaining signaling efficacy of territorial scent marks. These results suggest that adaptation to local conditions contributes to interpopulation divergence in FP and thus environmental changes can potentially impact the fine‐tuning of chemical communication mediating social and sexual behavior.
Molecular Method Based on Hydrolysis Probe Assays to Identify the Sex Chromosomes of Iberian Desman (Galemys pyrenaicus) Using Non‐Invasive Sampling
Authors: Ripa Adriana , Palacios‐Gonzalez María Jesús , Díaz‐Caballero José A. , Espinosa Antonio , Zalba Francisco Javier , García‐Zapata Juan Luis , Fernádez‐García José Luis
Published: December 2024

Desmans belong to the subfamily Desmaninae, which are members of the family Talpidae. Desmans and moles show limited sexual dimorphism, making unclear sex discrimination by phenotypic assessment. The Iberian desman (Galemys pyrenaicus) is an endangered species with a severe population decline. Knowledge of sex and sex ratio is essential for conservation and management. Based on these arguments and although previous conventional PCR studies amplifying DBX/DBY genes were relatively successful in sexing the desman, high‐resolution sex‐specific PCR has been requested. All these reasons encouraged us to develop new species‐specific RT‐qPCR assays by TaqMan probes to determine the sex in desman, especially with genetic material from non‐invasive samples. Accordingly, efficiency, limit of detection (LOD), specificity, and DNA analysis from faeces were verified. The target genes DBX and DBY were amplified with gDNA from both sexes, with Y‐chromosome consistently absent in the female. Despite the modest efficiency, regression analysis (R2 > 0.999) indicated a linear range of the DBX and DBY assays extending from 20 to 0.2 ng/µL DNA. LOD analyses estimated that twice as much gDNA was needed in males as in females for DBX detection. Paradoxically, the Y‐chromosome required three times as much gDNA as the X‐chromosome using a male sample. Therefore, an unexpected dosage imbalance in the genome in favour of the X chromosome was discussed in light of an apparent multicopy nature of the DBX gene and with a sexing success rate of 49.9% of the non‐invasive samples, supporting Fisher's principle for the mammalian XX/XY sex system, as expected.
Effects of heat stress on predicted energy balance, fat‐to‐protein ratio, and milk β‐hydroxybutyrate in first‐lactation Holstein cattle in Hokkaido, Japan
Authors: Ishida Satoka , Nishiura Akiko , Yamazaki Takeshi , Abe Hayato , Nakagawa Satoshi , Nakahori Yuka , Yamaguchi Shigeki , Masuda Yutaka , Saito Yuriko , Tatebayashi Ryoki , Osawa Takefumi , Huang Che‐Hsuan , Hagiya Koichi
Published: December 2024

Heat stress (HS) reduces dry‐matter intake and causes negative energy balance (EB) in Holstein cattle, with consequent deterioration in milk production and wellness. Therefore, the effects of HS can be detected more directly from imbalances in EB than from the consequent changes in production or health traits. EB can be monitored by metabolism‐related traits such as predicted EB (PEB), the fat‐to‐protein ratio (FPR), or β‐hydroxybutyrate (BHB) in milk. We examined the days on which HS effects on the test‐day PEB, FPR, or milk BHB were the greatest in first lactation. We collected weather records and test‐day records. We considered the fixed effects of herd‐year, test month, calving age, days in milk, temperature–humidity index (THI) from any one of test day to 14 days prior (15 models per trait), and random effects of animal and residuals in the models and compared the deviance information criterion (DIC) between models for each trait. For PEB, FPR, and milk BHB, the model gave the lowest DIC when including the effect of THI 1, 1, and 0 day before the test day. We observed that HS caused a decrease in PEB and an increase in FPR and milk BHB.
Advancing yeast cell analysis: A cryomethod for serial block‐face scanning electron microscopy imaging in mitochondrial morphology studies
Authors: Blancard Corinne , Decoeur Fanny , Duvezin‐Caubet Stéphane , Giraud Marie‐France , Salin Bénédicte
Published: December 2024

Background Information

Conventional Transmission Electron Microscopy analysis of biological samples often provides limited insights due to its inherent two‐dimensional (2D) nature. This limitation hampers a comprehensive understanding of the three‐dimensional (3D) complexity of cellular structures, occasionally leading to misinterpretations. Serial block‐face scanning electron microscopy emerges as a powerful method for acquiring high‐resolution 3D images of cellular volumes. By iteratively removing ultrathin sample sections and capturing images of each newly exposed surface, Serial block‐face scanning electron microscopy allows for the meticulous reconstruction of a comprehensive 3D volume.

Results

In this study, we investigate the 3D architecture of altered mitochondrial morphologies in Saccharomyces cerevisiae using Serial block‐face scanning electron microscopy imaging. We have developed a novel cryomethod based on plunge freezing and a dedicated freeze‐substitution protocol.

Conclusion

This protocol enhances ultrastructural preservation enabling a more accurate understanding of mitochondrial defects observed in 2D electron microscopy.

Significance

Our findings underscore the utility of Serial block‐face scanning electron microscopy coupled with optimized sample preparation techniques in elucidating complex cellular structures in 3D.