bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of a Multimodal Intervention to Improve Patient Identification in Health Care
Authors: Janeiro-Ochoa Eva , Huertas-Zurriaga Ariadna , Perpiñan-Grogues Marina , Mota-Rodríguez Yolanda , Martínez-Gómez Miguel Ángel , Castellà-Creus Mònica
Published: February 2025

Background:

Patient identification is a key aspect to avoid risks and maintain patient safety.

Purpose:

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the impact of a multimodal intervention on patient identification.

Methods:

A quasi-experimental pre-post study design was used. A multimodal intervention was implemented targeting nursing staff at 2 public Specialized Primary Care Centers. Data on the knowledge levels of nurses and nursing assistants, as well as the implementation of active patient identification, were collected.

Results:

The study included 27 health care professionals and 353 direct observations of patient active identification. Knowledge was assessed via a questionnaire, and active identification observations were conducted between March 2022 and December 2023. After the intervention, the correct performance rate improved to 100%, slightly decreasing to 82.3% over 21 months post-intervention. All evaluated knowledge items showed significant improvement post-intervention.

Conclusions:

The multimodal intervention significantly improved active identification knowledge and practice, enhancing patient safety.
18F-FDG PET/CT in Brachial Plexus Neuritis Secondary to Giant Cell Arteritis
Authors: Saito Takumi , Abe Yoshiyuki , Makiyama Ayako , Nishioka Yujin , Tamura Naoto
Published: February 2025

18F-FDG PET/CT is increasingly utilized in diagnosing systemic vasculitis syndromes, particularly large-vessel vasculitis. We report a case of brachial plexus neuritis secondary to giant cell arteritis (GCA) in a 70-year-old man, who showed 18F-FDG uptake in the aorta, left subclavian artery, and left brachial plexus. After the treatment, the 18F-FDG uptake decreased. This case underscores the effectiveness of PET/CT in detecting localized inflammation.
Application of Handheld Augmented Reality in Nursing Education
Authors: Fu Shuojin , Niu Yirou , Kang Ruifu , Tong Ling , Wang Yanling , Xiao Qian , Xie Zheng
Published: February 2025

Background:

Handheld augmented reality (HAR) offers a promising approach for nursing education, leveraging the affordability and portability of devices such as smartphones. However, its use in nursing education is still emerging, with many aspects yet to be fully explored.

Purpose:

To explore the application of HAR technology in nursing education.

Methods:

Thirteen databases were searched. The methodological framework of Arksey and O’Malley was adopted.

Results:

Forty-five studies were included in the review. Some studies applied theories to guide system development, implementation, and intervention process. Most studies focused on the availability, acceptance, learning experience, and effectiveness of HAR technology. However, despite its benefits, there were still technical, usability, and pedagogical challenges.

Conclusions:

HAR technology had been increasingly applied in nursing education, yielding positive outcomes. In the future, HAR can be developed and implemented within theoretical frameworks and guidelines, and combined with other technologies to better apply to nursing education.
Diagnostic value of median nerve cross-sectional area measured by ultrasonography for the severity of carpal tunnel syndrome: a machine learning-based approach
Authors: Azizi Fariborz , Mohammadi Babak , Ahmadi-Dastgerdi Mohammad , Esfandiari Neda
Published: February 2025

Objective

This study was conducted to evaluate the diagnostic performance and to establish cutoff values of median nerve cross-sectional area for classifying the severity of carpal tunnel syndrome.

Design

The study dataset included 1069 wrists from 1034 patients with carpal tunnel syndrome (May 2017 to December 2022). A machine learning algorithm was used to predict carpal tunnel syndrome severity based on median nerve cross-sectional area, adjusting for sex, age, body mass index, and disease duration.

Results

The multivariable model showed a multi-class AUC of 0.753, and single-class AUCs of 0.733, 0.635, and 0.780 for mild, moderate, and severe syndrome, respectively. Optimal cross-sectional area cutoffs were identified as <14 mm2 for mild and > 16 mm2 for severe syndrome, with AUC values of 0.773 and 0.794, respectively. The model showed high sensitivity for mild and high specificity for severe syndrome but had a low performance for moderate carpal tunnel syndrome (AUC = 0.568).

Conclusion

Median nerve cross-sectional area is a valuable tool for diagnosing mild and severe carpal tunnel syndrome. While cross-sectional area provides limited accuracy for moderate carpal tunnel syndrome, it remains a useful adjunct to other diagnostic methods, potentially reducing the need for more invasive procedures.
Head Injuries and Correlates in Beach Soccer: Video-Based Analysis of Five Consecutive Seasons
Authors: Lima Yavuz , Yörük İhsan , Gouttebarge Vincent , Bayraktar Bülent
Published: February 2025

Objective

This study evaluated the characteristics of head injuries in male beach soccer players via video footage.

Design

Video recordings of all official beach soccer tournaments played by European national male beach soccer teams from 2018 to 2022 (n = 516) were analyzed retrospectively. The main collected variables were the injury mechanism, bleeding, the injured player action, whether the injury led to time-loss, and whether there were any video signs of possible concussion in an injury case.

Results

A total of 214 head injuries were documented, corresponding to 68.3 injuries/1000 player hours. The injury mechanism was apparent in 202 injuries. Of these injuries, 15.3% had video signs of suspected concussion, and 9.9% led to time-loss. The most common mechanism was opponent contact (74.8%, n = 151) and the most common submechanism was head-to-head contact (23.8%, n = 36), followed by foot-to-head contact (23.2%, n = 35). A total of 38.1% (n = 77) injuries were related to heading. Injuries with video signs of suspected concussion were 44.53 times more likely to result in time loss.

Conclusion

The findings revealed that head injury in beach soccer is an urgent problem that should be addressed. The authors strongly recommend future studies that include clinical assessments to better understand head injuries in beach-soccer.
The effect of diaphragmatic breathing exercise with biofeedback on respiratory function in incomplete cervical spinal cord injury: A randomized-controlled study
Authors: Hasnakipour Soroush , Mosallanezhad Zahra , Rezaeian Tahere , Azadi Farhad , Noroozi Mehdi
Published: February 2025

Objectives

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of diaphragmatic breathing exercise with biofeedback on respiratory function in incomplete cervical spinal cord injury (SCI) patients.

Design

Forty SCI patients (mean age: 32.67 ± 5.08 years) were randomly entered into two groups including the control group (n = 20) and the intervention group (n = 20). Forced Expiratory Volume in 1 second (FEV1), Functional Vital Capacity (FVC), Maximum Voluntary Ventilation (MVV) tests were performed to measure pulmonary function and Nijmegen Questionnaire (NQ) was used to evaluate severity of respiratory dysfunction before, immediately after intervention, and one month after the intervention.

Results

The mean of pulmonary function tests in the intervention group was increased after the intervention (p < 0.001) and at one-month after intervention (p < 0.001).In addition, the control group indicated no change in these variables. The NQ score also decreased significantly in both groups (control group = p < 0.001, intervention group=, p < 0.001). The change of NQ score significantly differed between the groups (F = 4.67, p = 0.03); also, significant difference was observed after intervention (p < 0.001) and one month follow-up (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

The application of visual biofeedback during breathing exercise can improve pulmonary function and mechanism may make the NQ improve as a reflection of lowered dyspnea.
Neuroinflammation and immunometabolism in neurodegenerative diseases
Authors: Lonkar Neha , Latz Eicke , McManus Róisín M.
Published: February 2025

Purpose of review

Immunometabolism is an emerging field of research investigating the ability of immune cells to modulate their metabolic activity for optimal function. While this has been extensively examined in peripheral immune cells like macrophages, only recently have these studies been extended to assess the immunometabolic activity of microglia, the innate immune cells of the brain.

Recent findings

Microglia are highly metabolically flexible and can utilize different nutrients for their diverse functions. Like other immune cells, they undergo metabolic reprogramming on immune stimulation and in inflammatory, neurodegenerative conditions such as Alzheimer's disease (AD). In recent years, researchers have looked at the intricate mechanisms that modulate microglial activity and have uncovered key links between altered metabolism, neuroinflammation, and the involvement of disease-associated risk genes.

This review highlights the recent studies that have significantly contributed to our understanding of the metabolic dysregulation observed in activated microglia in conditions such as AD, unveiling novel targets for therapeutic intervention.
Unresolved ethical issues of genetic counseling and testing in clinical psychiatry
Authors: Perry Julia , Bunnik Eline , Rietschel Marcella , Bentzen Heidi Beate , Ingvoldstad Malmgren Charlotta , Pawlak Joanna , Chaumette Boris , Tammimies Kristiina , Bialy Filip , Bizzarri Virginia , Borg Isabella , Coviello Domenico , Crepaz-Keay David , Ivanova Eliza , McQuillin Andrew , Mežinska Signe , Johansson Soller Maria , Suvisaari Jaana , Watson Melanie , Wirgenes Katrine , Wynn Sarah L. , Degenhardt Franziska , Schicktanz Silke
Published: February 2025

Objective

This position article discusses current major ethical and social issues related to genetic counseling and testing in clinical psychiatry (PsyGCT).

Methods

To address these complex issues in the context of clinical psychiatry relevant to PsyGCT, the interdisciplinary and pan-European expert Network EnGagE (Enhancing Psychiatric Genetic Counseling, Testing, and Training in Europe; CA17130) was established in 2018. We conducted an interdisciplinary, international workshop at which we identified gaps across European healthcare services and research in PsyGCT; the workshop output was summarized and systematized for this position article.

Results

Four main unresolved ethical topics were identified as most relevant for the implementation of PsyGCT: (1) the problematic dualism between somatic and psychiatric disorders, (2) the impact of genetic testing on stigma, (3) fulfilling professional responsibilities, and (4) ethical issues in public health services. We provide basic recommendations to inform psychiatrists and other healthcare professionals involved in the clinical implementation of PsyGCT and conclude by pointing to avenues of future ethics research in PsyGCT.

Conclusion

This article draws attention to a set of unresolved ethical issues relevant for mental health professionals, professionals within clinical genetics, patients and their family members, and society as a whole and stresses the need for more interdisciplinary exchange to define standards in psychiatric counseling as well as in public communication. The use of PsyGCT may, in the future, expand and include genetic testing for additional psychiatric diagnoses. We advocate the development of pan-European ethical standards addressing the four identified areas of ethical–practical relevance in PsyGCT.
A novel carnivorous diet reduces brain telomere length
Authors: Shephard Alexander M. , Ledón-Rettig Cristina C.
Published: February 2025

Developmental conditions can profoundly influence adult survival or longevity. One established correlate of longevity is the length of telomeres—non-coding DNA regions that protect chromosomal ends. Telomere length in adulthood can be influenced by environmental conditions during development, such as nutrient restriction. Yet, we lack experimental studies of how adult telomere length is affected by a different form of nutritional variation: diet type. Here, we asked how diet-type variation during larval development affects telomere length in multiple post-metamorphic somatic tissues of the Mexican spadefoot (
Spea multiplicata
), an anuran species whose larvae develop on two qualitatively distinct diets: an ancestral omnivorous diet of detritus or a more novel carnivorous diet of live shrimp. We found that larvae developing on the novel shrimp diet developed into post-metamorphic frogs with shorter telomeres in the brain—a structure that is particularly vulnerable to harmful effects of nutritional adversity, such as oxidative stress. Given known links between telomere length and neurological health outcomes, our study suggests that a dietary transition to carnivory might carry costs in terms of compromised neural integrity later in life. This work highlights the lasting impact of a developmental diet on somatic maintenance and health.
Eco-friendly synthesis of NiO and Ag/NiO nanoparticles: applications in photocatalytic and antibacterial activities
Authors: Ravishankar T. N. , Ananda A. , Shilpa B. M. , Adarsh J. R.
Published: February 2025

Herein, NiO and Ag/NiO NPs were produced via the solution combustion method using nickel nitrate and silver nitrate as oxidizers and
Cocos nucifera
water as a fuel at 450°C. The study also explores their applications in photocatalytic dye degradation, H
2
production and antibacterial properties. The primary advantage of using
C. nucifera
water as a green fuel in the solution combustion method is that it serves a dual purpose—both as a fuel and as a solvent.
This eliminates the need for additional water to create a homogeneous redox mixture of fuel and oxidant in the experimental procedure
. X-ray diffraction confirmed the existence of Ag in the bunsenite form of rhombohedral structure with a simple cubic system, with particles sized at 31–44 nm. Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy revealed Ni, O and Ag weight percentages of 48.2, 44.5 and 7.3%, respectively. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy confirmed the formation of Ag in NiO nanostructure. UV–visible spectrometry showed reduced band gap energy of Ag/NiO NPs (3.03–2.87 eV) compared to the bare NiO NPs (3.21 eV), red shift of the optical response towards the visible region after doping Ag into the NiO. The 0.3 wt% Ag/NiO NPs showed the highest quantum efficiency (0.781) among the other synthesized NPs. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy revealed absorption bands in the range of 460–900 cm
−1
stretching vibrations of Ni–O and Ag–O. Photoluminescence spectroscopy indicated that a doping concentration of 0.3 wt% Ag effectively introduces donor levels, defect levels and surface trap states within the NiO nanocrystalline structure, enhancing charge carrier separation and reducing recombination. Scanning electron microscopy revealed a voluminous, porous surface morphology characterized by numerous voids, resulting from the release of various combustible gases during the combustion process. Transmission electron microscopy images showed that most particles were spherical, irregular in size and well-distributed, with minimal aggregation with an average particle size of 25.8 nm. BET analysis of both NiO and 0.3 wt% Ag/NiO NPs exhibited type IV adsorption isotherms, indicating mesoporous structures and a clear monolayer–multilayer adsorption process, 0.3 wt% Ag/NiO NPs showed the highest surface area (170 m
2
g
−1
) compared to the NiO (130 m
2
g
−1
) NPs. Ag/NiO NPs has demonstrated a promising H
2
evolution rate of 1212 μmol g⁻¹ under visible light illumination in a water/ethanol system. The trypan blue dye degradation reaches up to 98% and has moderate stability for the reusable photocatalysis process. The synthesized NPs exhibited significantly enhanced antibacterial activity against a range of bacterial strains.
Are natural-based isothiocyanate derivatives alternative antioxidant additives used in petrochemical products?
Authors: Ngo Thi Chinh , Truong Dinh Hieu , Le Anh Nguyen Thi , Pham Quang Khuong , Dao Duy Quang
Published: February 2025

Synthetic additives used in petrochemical products, such as plastics, rubbers, resins and polymers, can enter the environment as contaminants and pollute the aquatic and soil environment. Thus, using natural-based alternative compounds has excellent potential to reduce the negative impact. In this study, the role of natural-based isothiocyanate derivatives Cp
1
–Cp
4
, i.e. allylisothiocyanate, 1-isothiocyanate-3-methylbutane, 4-methylphenyl isothiocyanate and 2-phenylethyl isothiocyanate in use as primary antioxidant additives was studied via their HO
•
-radical scavenging activity. Formal hydrogen transfer, radical adduct formation and single electron transfer mechanisms were investigated in water and pentyl ethanoate (PEA) using density functional theory at M06-2X/6-311++G(3df,3pd)//M06-2X/6-311++G(d,p) level of theory. The results illustrated the high HO
•
-scavenging activity of the isothiocyanate compounds with rate constants of about 10
8
–10
9
M
−1
s
−1
. Allylisothiocyanate Cp
1
represents the most efficient HO
•
-scavenger with
k
overall
of 5.20 × 10
9
M
−1
s
−1
in water and 1.85 × 10
9
M
−1
s
−1
in PEA. These results allow us to enrich the data on effective antioxidant additives from natural sources to reduce HO
•
radicals-induced oxidation processes in different environmental conditions.
The coevolution of learning schedules and teaching enhances cumulative knowledge and drives a teacher–innovator syndrome
Authors: Maisonneuve Ludovic , Lehmann Laurent , Mullon Charles
Published: February 2025

Natural selection shapes how individuals learn and acquire knowledge from their environment. Under the right conditions, this can lead to the evolution of learning schedules—how individuals allocate resources to acquire knowledge throughout their lifespan—that promote the accumulation of knowledge across generations (‘cumulative knowledge’ or ‘cumulative culture’). In spite of having been observed across multiple taxa, the role of parental teaching in this evolutionary process remains understudied. Using mathematical modelling, we show that learning schedules and parental teaching coevolve, resulting in greater time spent learning individually and innovating, as well as greater intergenerational transfer of knowledge from parent to offspring. These outcomes together enhance cumulative knowledge. Our analyses further reveal that within populations, selection typically favours an association between teaching and individual learning whereby some individuals innovate and teach within the family (‘knowledge producers’ with extensive knowledge), while others teach less and learn socially outside of the family (‘knowledge scroungers’ with less knowledge). Overall, our findings indicate that the coevolution of learning schedules and teaching promotes knowledge accumulation within and between generations and favours diversity within and between populations in knowledge acquisition, possession and transmission.
Detection of vanA genes in vancomycin susceptible Enterococcus faecium isolates; implications for additional testing
Authors: Jordan Victoria , Varadhan Hemalatha
Published: February 2025

To assess the frequency of silent vancomycin resistance, phenotypically susceptible Enterococcus faecium isolates underwent genotypic testing using Cepheid’s Xpert vanA/vanB PCR. 6% of isolates had silent vanA genes. However, the clinical relevance of silent van genes, and the lack of rapid, random-access genotypic methods poses an ongoing challenge to laboratories.
Chronic Pain in Parkinson’s Disease: Prevalence, Sex Differences, Regional Anatomy, and Multiple Comorbidities
Authors: Ogonowski Natalia S. , Chafota Freddy , Cao Fangyuan , Yin Lim Amanda Wei , Flores-Ocampo Victor , Díaz-Torres Santiago , Ceja Zuriel , García-Marín Luis M. , Farrell Scott F. , Kumar Kishore R. , Alty Jane , Mellick George D. , Ngô Trung Thành , Renteria Miguel E.
Published: February 2025

Chronic pain (pain on most days or daily for ≥3 months) is prevalent among people living with Parkinson’s disease (PD). We analysed data from 10,631 Australian individuals with PD to assess the prevalence, severity, anatomical distribution, clinical history, and associated factors. Two-thirds (66.2%) reported chronic pain, with females experiencing higher prevalence (70.8%) and severity (4.7 vs. 4.3 on a 10-point scale). Common pain sites included the buttocks (35.6%), lower back (25.4%), neck (19.4%), and knees (17.2%). Chronic pain was strongly linked to comorbid depression, sleep disorders, and osteoarthritis (p < 0.05). Environmental exposures such as pesticides, heavy metals, and alcohol were associated with higher pain prevalence, especially in males (p < 0.05). These findings emphasise the substantial burden of chronic pain in PD, highlighting sex differences and strong links to multimorbidity. Further research is warranted to clarify sex-specific treatments and identify novel therapeutic targets.
Systematic evaluation of medication adherence determinants across 137 ingredients on population-level real-world health data
Authors: Mooses Kerli , Oja Marek , Malk Maria , Loorents Helene , Pajusalu Maarja , Umov Nikita , Tamm Sirli , Holm Johannes , Keidong Hanna , Tillmann Taavi , Reisberg Sulev , Vilo Jaak , Kolde Raivo
Published: February 2025

The current knowledge about medication adherence (MA) is based on studies focusing only on few health conditions. We utilised a representative dataset with electronic health records, claims, and prescribed medications to 1) evaluate the effect of multiple factors affecting MA in a consistent manner across 137 ingredients, and 2) calculate individual medication adherence score (IMAS), evaluate its predictive power, stability over time, and impact on health outcomes. The MA ranged from 0.423 (albuterol, 95% CI 0.414–0.432) to 0.922 (warfarin, 95% CI 0.917–0.926). The demographic, health- and medication-related factors explained 11.6% and IMAS 22% of the variation in adherence. IMAS predicted adherence across medication classes, reduced the risk of overall hospitalisation (Hazard ratio = 0.76, 95% CI 0.60–0.97, p<0.05) and cause-specific incidence for 17 conditions. Thus, medication-taking behaviour represents a broader patient-level phenomenon manifesting consistently across medications, suggesting its potential for personalised interventions in clinical practice and more efficient public health strategies and policies.
TAC-C uncovers open chromatin interaction in crops and SPL-mediated photosynthesis regulation
Authors: Kang Jingmin , Zhang Zhaoheng , Lin Xuelei , Liu Fuyan , Song Yali , Zhao Peng , Lin Yujing , Luo Xumei , Li Xiaoyi , Li Yanyan , Wang Wenda , Liu Cuimin , Xu Shengbao , Liu Xin , Xiao Jun
Published: February 2025

Cis-regulatory elements (CREs) direct precise gene expression for development and environmental response, yet their spatial organization in crops is largely unknown. We introduce Transposase-Accessible Chromosome Conformation Capture (TAC-C), a method integrating ATAC-seq and Hi-C to capture fine-scale chromatin interactions in four major crops: rice, sorghum, maize, and wheat. TAC-C reveals that chromatin interaction frequency aligns with genome size and gene expression, exhibiting distinct loop structures between C3 and C4 plants, particularly in C4-specific enzymes coding genes. Integrating chromatin structure with population genetics data highlights that chromatin loops connect distal regulatory elements to phenotypic variation. Asymmetrical open chromatin interactions among subgenomes, driven by transposon insertions and sequence variations, contribute to biased homoeolog expression. Furthermore, TaSPL7/15 regulate photosynthesis-related genes through chromatin interactions, with enhanced photosynthetic efficiency and starch content inTaspl7&15mutant. TAC-C provides new insights into the spatial organization of regulatory elements in crops, especially for SPL-mediated photosynthesis regulation in wheat.
ELECTROPHYSIOLOGICAL CORRELATES OF CONSCIOUS EXPERIENCES DURING SLEEP: LUCID DREAMS, SLEEP PARALYSIS, OUT-OF-BODY EXPERIENCES, AND FALSE AWAKENINGS
Authors: Herrero Nerea L. , Corfdir Yohann , Vázquez-Chenlo Aylin A. , Capurro Lucila , Forcato Cecilia
Published: February 2025

Consciousness does not always fade during sleep. Instead, it can re-emerge, giving rise to lucid dreams (LDs), sleep paralysis (SP), out-of-body experiences (OBEs), and false awakenings (FAs). While some of these states have been studied phenomenologically, their neurophysiological underpinnings remain unclear.

Here, we investigate their electrophysiological correlates and distinguish them from standard sleep stages. We conducted overnight polysomnography in frequent experiencers, capturing 10 episodes (3 LDs, 2 SP, 2 OBEs, 3 FAs). Eye movement markers identified periods of lucidity. Relative spectral power was analyzed using principal component analysis (PCA) and permutation-based multivariate analysis of variance (PERMANOVA).

Our results indicate that these conscious sleep states are distinct from wakefulness, yet share features with both stage 1 (S1) and rapid eye movement (REM) sleep. Notably, we provide the first documented eye movement markers during FAs and OBEs.
A Complete Spatial Map of Mouse Retinal Ganglion Cells Reveals Density and Gene Expression Specializations
Authors: Budoff Samuel A. , Poleg-Polsky Alon
Published: February 2025

Retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) transmit visual information from the eye to the brain. In mice, several RGC subtypes show nonuniform spatial distributions, potentially mediating specific visual functions. However, the full extent of RGC specialization remains unknown. Here, we used en-face cryosectioning, spatial transcriptomics, and machine learning to map the spatial distribution of all RGC subtypes identified in previous single-cell studies. While two-thirds of RGC subtypes were evenly distributed, others showed strong biases toward ventral or dorso-temporal regions associated with sky vision and the area retinae temporalis (ART), the predicted homolog of the area centralis. Additionally, we observed unexpected spatial variation in gene expression within several subtypes along the dorso-ventral axis or within vs. outside the ART, independent of RGC density profiles. Finally, we found limited correlations between the gene profiles of the ART and the primate macula, suggesting divergent specialization between the mouse and primate central vision.
Direct-view oblique plane microscopy
Authors: Lamb Jacob R. , Mestre Miguel Cardoso , Lancaster Madeline , Manton James D.
Published: February 2025

The ability to rapidly image mesoscopic samples is critically important for many areas of biological research. Owing to its high through-put and gentle, volumetric imaging nature, light-sheet fluorescence microscopy (LSFM) is an attractive modality to image such samples. However, the orthogonal dual-objective geometry of LSFM makes sample mounting challenging. Oblique plane microscopy (OPM) circumvents these issues by achieving light-sheet imaging through a single objective near the sample, with a further two objectives acting to image a tilted, oblique plane in the specimen. However, at low magnification, as required for mesoscopic imaging, conventional OPM systems suffer from a complicated and inefficient light path and/or a limited numerical aperture. Here we present a simple method for mesoscopic OPM that enables efficient light collection at any numerical aperture. By placing the camera directly in the remote space, the oblique plane can be imaged without the need for a third microscope system. Using a commercially available camera with 1.4 µm pixels, we demonstrate imaging over a 5.3 × 3 × 2.6 mm3field of view with a lateral resolution of ∼2 µm and axial resolution of ∼22 µm. Our technique is then used to image a 4×-expanded brain organoid.
Specificities of Chemosensory Receptors in the Human Gut Microbiota
Authors: Xu Wenhao , Jalomo-Khayrova Ekaterina , Gumerov Vadim M , Ross Patricia A. , Köbel Tania S. , Schindler Daniel , Bange Gert , Zhulin Igor B. , Sourjik Victor
Published: February 2025

The human gut is rich in metabolites and harbors a complex microbial community, yet the sensory repertoire of its commensal bacteria remains largely uncharacterized. Here we systematically mapped ligand specificities of extracytoplasmic sensory domains from twenty members of the human gut microbiota, with a primary focus on the abundant and physiologically important class of Clostridia. We identified diverse metabolites as specific stimuli for three major functional classes of transmembrane receptors. We further characterized novel subsets of sensors belonging to the Cache superfamily, specific for lactate, dicarboxylic acids, and for uracil and short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), respectively, and investigated the evolution of their ligand specificity. Structural and biochemical analysis of the newly described dCache_1UR domain revealed an independent binding of uracil and SCFA at distinct modules. Altogether, we could identify or predict specificities for over a half of the Cache-type chemotactic sensors in the selected gut commensals, with the carboxylic acids representing the largest class of ligands. Among those, the most commonly found specificities were for lactate and formate, indicating particular importance of these metabolites in the human gut microbiome and consistent with their observed beneficial impact on the growth of selected bacterial species.
Genomic Insights into Ceftazidime Resistance inBurkholderia pseudomallei: Discovery of A172T Mutation, and Palindromic GC-Rich Repeat Sequences FacilitatingpenADuplication and Amplification
Authors: Tuanyok Apichai , Nakajima Chie , Noll Tiernan , Khan Md. Siddiqur Rahman , Khrongsee Pacharapong , Yowell Charles A. , Xiao Yu-Ping , Wuthiekanun Vanaporn , Chantratita Narisara , Heine Henry , Subramaniam Kuttichantran , Suzuki Yasuhiko , Limmathurotsakul Direk , Mergia Ayalew
Published: February 2025

Ceftazidime (CAZ) resistance inBurkholderia pseudomallei, the causative agent of melioidosis, complicates treatment in endemic regions. This study identified a novel A172T mutation and other knownpenAmutations as critical contributors to CAZ resistance in a large Thai strain collection. Frequent gene duplication and amplification (GDA) ofpenA, likely driven by Palindromic GC-Rich Repeat Sequences (PGCRRS), highlights the urgent need for rapid diagnostics and optimized treatment strategies to manage this life-threatening disease effectively.
TDP-43 Aggregate Seeding Impairs Autoregulation and Causes TDP-43 Dysfunction
Authors: Mamede Lohany Dias , Hu Miwei , Titus Amanda R. , Vaquer-Alicea Jaime , French Rachel L. , Diamond Marc I. , Miller Timothy M. , Ayala Yuna M.
Published: February 2025

The aggregation, cellular mislocalization and dysfunction of TDP-43 are hallmarks of multiple neurodegenerative disorders. We find that inducing TDP-43 aggregation through prion-like seeding gradually diminishes normal TDP-43 nuclear localization and function. Aggregate-affected cells show signature features of TDP-43 loss of function, such as DNA damage and dysregulated TDP-43-target expression. We also observe strong activation of TDP-43-controlled cryptic exons in cells, including human neurons treated with proteopathic seeds. Furthermore, aggregate seeding impairs TDP-43 autoregulation, an essential mechanism controlling TDP-43 homeostasis. Interestingly, proteins that normally interact with TDP-43 are not recruited to aggregates, while other factors linked to TDP-43 pathology, including Ataxin 2, specifically colocalize to inclusions and modify seeding-induced aggregation. Our findings indicate that TDP-43 aggregation, mislocalization and loss of function are strongly linked and suggest that disruption of TDP-43 autoregulation establishes a toxic feed-forward mechanism that amplifies aggregation and may be central in mediating this pathological connection.
Long-lived sterile neutrinos from an axionlike particle at Belle II
Authors: Wang Zeren Simon , Zhang Yu , Liu Wei
Published: February 2025

Axionlike particles (ALPs) can be produced in meson decays via tree-level quark-flavor-violating couplings, and decay to a pair of sterile neutrinos if also coupled to them. Such light sterile neutrinos are necessarily long-lived and may give rise to striking signatures of displaced vertices (DVs) at terrestrial experiments. In this work, we study the prospect of the ongoing Belle II experiment for detecting the sterile neutrinos from the ALP, leveraging the O(1010) B-mesons projected to be produced at the experiment with an integrated luminosity of 50  ab−1. We propose search strategies for one or two DVs, and perform Monte-Carlo simulations in order to estimate the sensitivity reach of Belle II to active-sterile-neutrino mixing |VeN|2 as functions of the sterile-neutrino mass. Signatures include a selected list of sterile-neutrino final states, for which we estimate an O(1) or lower background level. Our results show that the proposed search strategies can probe values of |VeN|2 up to about two orders of magnitude beyond the existing bounds, for ALP mass over 4 GeV and sterile-neutrino mass above the D-meson threshold. Compared to the one-DV search, the two-DV one, despite its weaker sensitivities as a result of double exponential suppression of the sterile-neutrino decay positions, possesses the advantage of possible full reconstruction of the signal event allowing for pinning down the masses of the sterile neutrino and the ALP, if a discovery is made.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Undulators are ALP factories
Authors: Yin Wen , Yoshida Junya
Published: February 2025

Axionlike particles (ALPs), hypothetical particles, are known to be produced through axion-photon conversion in the presence of a stationary external magnetic field that is strong enough. Devices such as undulators and wigglers, which are used widely for photon production, e.g., in synchrotron radiation facilities, inherently possess strong magnetic fields, making them potential sources for ALP production without introducing additional light source or magnetic fields. In this paper, we establish formalisms and formulas for studying ALP production in the ALP-photon-charged current system based on quantum field theory. We demonstrate that ALP production is inevitable in any undulator with the standard designs due to the electron Coulomb potential as well as a “photon resonance” effect depending on the ALP mass. In particular, ALPs are predominantly produced in a direction slightly misaligned with the photons’ main direction. We propose placing detectors in the desired directions during operations of the originally planned experiments as an efficient approach to simultaneously probing ALPs. The calculation methods and formulas developed in this study are applicable to ALP production from other environments and productions of other particles beyond the standard model relevant to synchrotron radiations.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Rigidity of epithelial tissues as a double optimization problem
Authors: Arzash Sadjad , Tah Indrajit , Liu Andrea J. , Manning M. Lisa
Published: February 2025

How do cells tune emergent properties at the scale of tissues? One class of such emergent behaviors are rigidity transitions, in which a tissue changes from a solidlike to a fluidlike state or vice versa. Here we introduce a way for a tissue described by a vertex model to tune its rigidity by using “tunable degrees of freedom.” We use the vertex model elastic energy as a cost function and the cell stiffnesses, target shapes, and target areas as different sets of degrees of freedom describing cell-cell interactions that can be tuned to minimize the cost function. We show that the rigidity transition is unaffected when cell stiffnesses are treated as tunable degrees of freedom. When preferred shapes or areas are treated as tunable degrees of freedom, however, induced spatial correlations in target cell shapes or areas shift the rigidity transition. These observations suggest that tissues can coordinate changes in cell-scale properties, treated here as tunable degrees of freedom, to achieve desired tissue-scale behaviors.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Dopant pairing in a disordered magnetic spin ladder
Authors: Nielsen K. Knakkergaard
Published: February 2025

I demonstrate a pairing mechanism of dopants in a magnetic lattice, emerging from the underlying of the spins. The effect is demonstrated in a mixed-dimensional model, where dopants travel along a two-leg ladder, while the spins feature Ising interactions along the rungs and the legs of the ladder. The dynamics following the sudden immersion of two nearest neighbor dopants in an infinite temperature spin lattice shows that thermal spin disorder frustrates the relative motion of the dopants and enforces them to copropagate. The predictions are shown to be realistically testable in quantum simulation experiments.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Correction Formulas for the Mølmer-Sørensen Gate Under Strong Driving
Authors: Kirchhoff Susanna , Wilhelm Frank K. , Motzoi Felix
Published: February 2025

The Mølmer-Sørensen gate is a widely used entangling gate for ion platforms with inherent robustness to trap heating. The gate performance is limited by coherent errors, arising from the Lamb-Dicke (LD) approximation and sideband errors. Here, we provide explicit analytical formulas for errors up to fourth order in the LD parameter, by using the Magnus expansion to match numerical precision, and overcome significant orders-of-magnitude underestimation of errors by previous theory methods. We show that fourth-order Magnus expansion terms are unavoidable, being in fact leading order in LD, and are therefore critical to include for typical experimental fidelity ranges. We show how these errors can be dramatically reduced compared to previous theory by using analytical renormalization of the drive strength, by calibration of the Lamb-Dicke parameter, and by the use of smooth pulse shaping.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Consumers’ engagement in online shopping platform: influences on self-concept and subjective well-being within the platform
Authors: Lee Ha Kyung , Kim Woo Bin , Choo Ho Jung
Published: February 2025

Purpose

Shopping through e-commerce platforms has become a primary daily activity. However, research on consumer engagement within e-commerce platform contexts remains scarce. We examine the relationship between consumer engagement on online shopping platforms and their subjective well-being, considering self-expansion and self-extension as mediators.

Design/methodology/approach

We investigate the role of consumer engagement by dividing it into two experiences (crowdsourcing and crowdsending). Using validated measurement scales to analyze data from 440 South Korean consumers, we examine how these engagement experiences affect self-expansion and self-extension, ultimately leading to higher subjective well-being.

Findings

Crowdsourcing and crowdsending play different and complementary roles in improving self-concept. Furthermore, self-expansion and self-extension are key variables influencing consumer engagement and well-being on the platform.

Originality/value

This study provides a new perspective of consumer online shopping behavior, revealing the self-related mechanisms that influence the relationship between consumer engagement experiences and subjective well-being.
Factors influencing consumers' willingness to pay a price premium and purchase frequency for organic food: a generational difference perspective
Authors: Lin Qiaoling , Jiang Hongbo , Luo Xi , Li Yingxia
Published: February 2025

Purpose

This study applies the stimulus-organism-response (SOR) model and the theory of consumption value to examine the effects of natural content, environmental concern, and availability on consumers' willingness to pay a price premium and purchase frequency for organic food. It also ranks the relative importance of these factors and assesses generational differences.

Design/methodology/approach

Using the purposive sampling to survey 435 Gen-Y and Gen-Z consumers in Mainland China. The data were analyzed using partial least squares structural equation modeling.

Findings

The results indicate that natural content, environmental concern, and availability are significant in predicting green consumption value. Additionally, green consumption value significantly affects the willingness to pay a price premium and purchase frequency. Furthermore, the willingness to pay a price premium significantly impacts purchase frequency. Finally, generational differences were confirmed in natural content-green consumption value, green consumption value-purchase frequency linkages.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the organic food literature by exploring how green consumption value influences the willingness to pay a price premium and purchase frequency. Additionally, it enriches the SOR model and the theory of consumption value by identifying generational differences that affect the strength of these relationships.
Firm-level climate risk exposure, ESG disclosure and stock liquidity. Evidence from textual analysis
Authors: Sahu Asis Kumar , Debata Byomakesh
Published: February 2025

Purpose

This study examines the impact of firm-level climate risk exposure (FCRE) on firm stock liquidity by using a sample of Indian-listed firms from the financial years 2003–2004 to 2022–2023. Further, it endeavors to investigate the moderating role of environmental, social and governance (ESG) disclosure in this relationship.

Design/methodology/approach

A novel text-based FCRE metric is introduced using a sophisticated Word2Vec model through a Python-generated algorithm for each firm and year based on the management discussions and analysis (MD&A) reports. The panel fixed effect model is used to study how FCRE affects stock liquidity.

Findings

The result shows that FCRE negatively affects firms’ stock liquidity, and the effect remains robust after addressing endogeneity concerns. In addition, we find that a high ESG disclosure rating significantly moderated the adverse effect of FCRE. Furthermore, our analysis reveals that investor sentiment, information quality, corporate life cycle and institutional holdings moderate the impact of FCRE on liquidity.

Practical implications

The study offers valuable insights for investors, managers and policymakers on integrating climate risk into investment strategies, improving corporate climate governance and shaping policies that incentivize sustainable corporate behavior.

Originality/value

To the best of our knowledge, this study is an early study to explore the relationship between firm-specific climate risk exposure and stock liquidity using advanced machine learning techniques. It contributes to the existing literature by illustrating how climate risk can lead to adverse market reactions while highlighting the critical roles of corporate ESG practices, investor sentiment and disclosure quality in influencing this relationship.
Sweet & Coffee in Ecuador: the challenge of market expansion
Authors: Gulawani Makarand , Sempèrtegui Seminario Carlos Alberto , Bodolica Virginia
Published: February 2025

Learning outcomes

After working through the case and the assignment questions, students will be able to:

▪ Examine Ecuador’s business environment where coffee shops and similar companies operate.

▪ Evaluate the marketing challenges for an enterprise, particularly for a café business operating in Ecuador.

▪ Explain the marketing strategy for a café company to attract a variety of new consumer segments domestically and abroad.

▪ Discuss relevant international market entry strategies given the specificities of the environment in which a company operates.

▪ Describe the advantage of contemporary marketing tools in sustainable market expansion of a café business.

Case overview/synopsis

Richard Peet and Soledad Hanna turned their coffee shop business, Sweet & Coffee, into a flagship brand in Ecuador. Their coffee shops successfully promoted the culture of consuming coffee and sweets throughout Ecuador and grew exponentially to 129 stores. However, Sweet & Coffee faced significant challenges entering new states in Ecuador, with considerable investment in central kitchens and logistics. Despite the challenges, Peet wanted to continue opening new Sweet & Coffee stores across Ecuador. However, owing to Ecuador’s fast-changing and unpredictable external environment, Peet needed to make new adjustments to its marketing strategy to reposition Sweet & Coffee for a bright future. International market expansion was an option.

Complexity academic level

This case is helpful for advanced undergraduate or graduate courses in marketing and strategy.

Supplementary material

Teaching notes are available for educators only.

Subject code

CSS 8: Marketing.
Knowledge cooperation towards regional collaborative innovation
Authors: Zeng Juying , Lassala Carlos , Benavides Maria Del Mar , Li Jiehui
Published: February 2025

Purpose

This study aims to assess the mediating and driving roles of knowledge cooperation in the effectiveness of G60 Sci-tech Innovation Corridor (G60 STIC) for regional collaborative innovation within the knowledge economy context. Furthermore, it focuses on whether knowledge cooperation is more effective than resource cooperation in terms of spatial spillover and its mediating effects on collaborative innovation.

Design/methodology/approach

This study employs multiple statistical and econometric approaches, including social cooperation network, Super-DEA, spatial difference-in-difference model (SDID) and mediating effect model, to measure the effectiveness of knowledge cooperation and resource cooperation paths within the framework of the G60 STIC on regional collaborative innovation in the Yangtze River Delta region (YRD) from 2002 to 2022.

Findings

First, the knowledge cooperation networks validate the strengthening of collaborative innovation is primarily centred on provincial cities and leading manufacturing locales, with smaller cities radiating outwards from these centres. The knowledge cooperation network was generally stronger than the resource cooperation network. Second, the G60 STIC significantly enhances collaborative innovation efficiency by intensifying knowledge, resource and interactive cooperation networks. Third, within the context of the knowledge economy, knowledge cooperation presents a stronger spillover and mediating effect in stimulating collaborative innovation than resource cooperation.

Originality/value

This study clarifies the existence of a knowledge cooperation network and its mediating role in stimulating the effectiveness of strategic, innovative platforms on collaborative innovation. This further verifies the stronger role of the knowledge cooperation than the resource cooperation, which serves as a vital element in promoting strategic innovative platforms to optimise collaborative innovation.