bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mechanism of forced-copy-choice RNA recombination by enteroviral RNA-dependent RNA polymerases
Authors: Arnold Jamie J. , Martinez Alexandre , Jain Abha , Liu Xinran , Moustafa Ibrahim M. , Cameron Craig E.
Published: February 2025

Forced-copy-choice recombination occurs at the end of a template, differing from copy-choice recombination, which happens at internal positions. This mechanism may produce full-length genomes from fragments created by host antiviral responses. Previous studies from our laboratory demonstrated that poliovirus (PV) RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) switches to an “acceptor” templatein vitrowhen initiated on a heteropolymeric RNA-primed “donor” template. Surprisingly, recombinants showed template switching from the 3’-end of the donor template. We have developed a primed-template system to study PV RdRp-catalyzed forced-copy-choice RNA recombination. PV RdRp adds a single, non-templated nucleotide to the 3’-end of a blunt-ended, double-stranded RNA product, forming a “plus-one” intermediate essential for template switching. Non-templated addition of CMP was favored over AMP and GMP (80:20:1); UMP addition was negligible. A single basepair between the plus-one intermediate and the 3’-end of the acceptor template was necessary and sufficient for template switching, which could occur without RdRp dissociation. Formation of the plus-one intermediate was rate limiting for template switching. PV RdRp also utilized synthetic, preformed intermediates, including those with UMP 3’-overhangs. Reactions showed up to five consecutive template-switching events, consistent with a repair function for this form of recombination. PV RdRp may exclude UMP during forced-copy-choice RNA recombination to preclude creation of nonsense mutations during RNA fragment assembly. Several other picornaviral RdRps were evaluated, and all were capable of RNA fragment assembly to some extent. Lastly, we propose a structure-based hypothesis for the PV RdRp-plus-one intermediate complex based on an elongating PV RdRp structure.
Drosophilaembryo cellularization is modulated by the viscoelastic dynamics of cortical-membrane interactions
Authors: Stark Kyle , Bonilla Quintana Mayte , Sokac Anna Marie , Rangamani Padmini
Published: February 2025

1

The generation of an epithelial sheet transforms fruit fly embryos from a single syncytial cell directly into a tissue. For this to happen, the apical microvillus membrane is pulled between peripherally anchored nuclei in a process known as furrow invagination. Experimental measurements of furrow invagination velocities have shown that the rate of invagination undergoes slow-to-fast and fast-to-stalled velocity transitions during the formation of individual cells. The causes of such changes are due to multiple intersecting mechanisms and molecular components, including motor proteins, microtubules, and F-actin. In this work, we develop a continuum model to describe the dynamics of furrow invagination. Our model is constrained by previously published experimental data and considers the roles of cytoskeletal forces, cytoplasmic drag, motor protein forces, and membrane tension. We find that the viscous forces produced by the cytoskeleton sliding beneath the plasma membrane dictates furrow velocity. We propose that the slow phase is slow because there is a high density of microvilli, which increases the number of viscous contact points between the plasma membrane and the underlying cytoskeleton. This in turn, results in a higher resistance to furrow invagination. We predict that the fast phase may benefit from fewer cytoskeleton-to-plasma membrane contact points, thus reducing viscous forces and promoting the slow-to-fast switch. Then, we use perturbation and loss-of-function simulations to show that microvillus and sub-apical membrane reservoirs are vital to setting furrow invagination dynamics. This work demonstrates how coupling between the cytoskeleton, the plasma membrane, and distinct membrane reservoirs affects the plasticity and dynamics of cellularization.
DeepMM: Identify and correct Metagenome Misassemblies with deep learning
Authors: Ding Yi , Xiao Jin , Zou Bohao , Yang Chao , Zhang Lu
Published: February 2025

Accurate metagenomic assemblies are essential for constructing reliable metagenome-assembled genomes (MAGs). However, the complexity of microbial genomes continues to pose challenges for accurate assembly. Current reference-free assembly evaluation tools primarily rely on hand-crafted features and suffer from poor generalization across different metagenomic data. To address these limitations, we propose DeepMM, a novel deep learning-based visual model de-signed for the identification and correction of metagenomic misassemblies. DeepMM transforms alignments between assemblies and reads into a multi-channel image for misassembly feature learning and applies contrastive learning to bring different views of misassemblies closer. Fur-thermore, DeepMM offers a fine-tuning process to match different sequencer data. Our results show that DeepMM outperforms state-of-the-art methods in identifying misassemblies, achieving the highest AUPRC score in five CAMI datasets. DeepMM provides accurate correction of misassemblies, significantly improving downstream binning results, increasing the number of near-complete MAGs from 905 to 1006 in a large real metagenomic sequencing dataset derived from a diarrhea-predominant Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS-D) cohort.
CCR2 recruits monocytes to the lung, while CX3CR1 modulates positioning of monocyte-derived CD11cposcells in the lymph node during pulmonary tuberculosis
Authors: Mohapatra Alexander , Howard Zachary , Ernst Joel D.
Published: February 2025

Infection byMycobacterium tuberculosis(Mtb) continues to cause more than 1 million deaths annually, due to pathogen persistence in lung macrophages and dendritic cells derived from blood monocytes. While accumulation of monocyte-derived cells in the Mtb-infected lung partially depends on the chemokine receptor CCR2, the other chemoattractant receptors regulating trafficking remain undefined. We used mice expressing knock-in/knockout reporter alleles ofCcr2andCx3cr1to interrogate their expression and function in monocyte-derived populations of the lungs and draining mediastinal lymph nodes during Mtb infection. CCR2 and CX3CR1 expression varied across monocyte-derived subsets stratified by cell surface Ly6C expression in both organs. We found that expression of CCR2 predicted dependence of monocyte-derived cells on the receptor for lung and lymph node accumulation. CCR2-deficient mice were also observed to have worsened lung and lymph node Mtb burden. While CX3CR1 deficiency, alone or in combination with CCR2 deficiency, did not affect cell frequencies or lung Mtb control, its absence was associated with altered positioning of monocyte-derived dendritic cells in mediastinal lymph nodes. We found that combined loss ofCcr2andCx3cr1also worsened Mtb control in the mediastinal lymph node, suggesting a rationale for the persistent expression of CX3CR1 among monocyte-derived cells in pulmonary tuberculosis.

IMPORTANCE

Mycobacterium tuberculosisis the respiratory pathogen responsible for the deadliest infectious disease worldwide. Susceptible humans exhibit ineffective immune responses, in which infected phagocytes are not able to eliminate the pathogen. Since recruited monocyte-derived cells serve as reservoirs for persistent infection, understanding how these phagocytes accumulate in the lung and why they are unable to eliminate Mtb can inform development of therapies that can synergize with antimicrobials to achieve faster and more durable Mtb elimination. Monocyte-derived cells express the chemokine receptors CCR2 and CX3CR1, but the role of the latter in Mtb infection remains poorly defined. The significance of our study is in elucidating the roles of these receptors in the trafficking of monocyte-derived cells in the infected lung and mediastinal lymph node. These data shed light on the host response in tuberculosis and in other pulmonary infections.
Salivary proteins in spider mites: dual roles in feeding and silk fiber coating
Authors: Arai Yuka , Takeda Naoki , Komoto Shinya , Murakami Hisashi , Voigt Dagmar , Suzuki Takeshi
Published: February 2025

Spider mites are plant cell-sucking herbivores that spin nanoscale adhesive silk fibers released from their mouthpart appendages. Previous whole-genome sequencing predicted 17 silk genes in the two-spotted spider mite, Tetranychus urticae, while silk proteomics detected two candidates, Fibroin-1 and Fibroin-2. However, saliva proteomics also detected Fibroin-1, Fibroin-2, and sFibroin-1 (with high sequence similarity to Fibroin-1). We investigated whether these three proteins function in silk, saliva, or both. We found Fibroin-1, sFibroin-1, and Fibroin-2 genes expressed in the salivary glands but found no direct internal connection between salivary and silk glands. Our silk proteomics detected 8 silk proteins previously predicted and 66 salivary proteins, including Fibroin-1, sFibroin-1, and Fibroin-2. We detected a bead-on-a-string pattern formed by fluid (hypothesized to be saliva) on the silk fiber and a fluid patch that remains at the piercing site on the leaf surface after mite feeding. RNAi-mediated silencing of Fibroin-1 and sFibroin-1 genes reduced mite feeding duration, survival, and fecundity, and silencing of Fibroin-2 gene showed a tendency to reduce the thickness of individual silk fibers. These results suggest that Fibroin-1, sFibroin-1, and Fibroin-2 are secreted from the salivary glands and then adhere to silk fibers. Fibroin-1 and sFibroin-1 may assist mites to adhere the tip of the mouthparts to the leaf surface when sucking with their stylets, while Fibroin-2 may coat silk fibers. This study reveals the dual role of saliva in plant cell-sucking herbivorous mites, namely, stabilizing the mouthparts during feeding and coating silk fibers to provide them with adhesive properties.
Investigation of Axonal Beading Induced by Photo-oxidation
Authors: Mehta Deepak , Pullarkat Pramod A
Published: February 2025

Oxidative stress caused by the presence of excessive free radicals (reactive oxygen species) is known for its adverse effects in cellular function. When initiated by fluorescent dye excitation, it can lead to photo-oxidative stress, causing cellular damage. In this study, we investigate axonal beading induced by the photo-oxidation of a membrane based fluorescent dye. Our findings show that apart from the use of oxygen scavengers, chelation of free calcium and stabilizing microtubules or actin filaments by pharmacological agents can mitigate oxidative stress induced axonal beading. Furthermore, we take advantage of this light induced oxidative stress phenomenon to probe axonal response to spatially confined perturbations of varying strength. We demonstrate that low excitation levels lead to long-lived localized beading, whereas higher levels of excitation result in global degeneration and beading of axons. Besides the results presented here, this light based technique is a convenient tool to investigate the effect of local oxidative stress at the tissue level, for example, in cultures of brain slices or organoids.
ibaqpy: A scalable Python package for baseline quantification in proteomics leveraging SDRF metadata
Authors: Zheng Ping , Audain Enrique , Webel Henry , Dai Chengxin , Klein Joshua , Hitz Marc-Phillip , Sachsenberg Timo , Bai Mingze , Perez-Riverol Yasset
Published: February 2025

Intensity-based absolute quantification (iBAQ) is essential in proteomics as it allows for the assessment of a protein’s absolute abundance in various samples or conditions. However, the computation of these values for increasingly large-scale and high-throughput experiments, such as those using DIA, TMT, or LFQ workflows, poses significant challenges in scalability and reproducibility. Here, we present ibaqpy (https://github.com/bigbio/ibaqpy), a Python package designed to compute iBAQ values efficiently for experiments of any scale. ibaqpy leverages the Sample and Data Relationship Format (SDRF) metadata standard to incorporate experimental metadata into the quantification workflow. This allows for automatic normalization and batch correction while accounting for key aspects of the experimental design, such as technical and biological replicates, fractionation strategies, and sample conditions. Designed for large-scale proteomics datasets, ibaqpy can also recompute iBAQ values for existing experiments when an SDRF is available. We showcased ibaqpy’s capabilities by reanalyzing 17 public proteomics datasets from ProteomeXchange, covering HeLa cell lines with 4,921 samples and 5,766 MS runs, quantifying a total of 11,014 proteins. In our reanalysis, ibaqpy is a key component in automating reproducible quantification, reducing manual effort and making quantitative proteomics more accessible while supporting FAIR principles for data reuse.
Mapping molecular diffusion across the whole cell with spatial statistics-based FRAP
Authors: Okabe Yohei , Saito Takumi , Nakashima Outa , Matsunaga Daiki , Deguchi Shinji
Published: February 2025

Understanding molecular diffusion within cells is crucial for gaining insights into cellular biophysical mechanisms. Fluorescence recovery after photobleaching (FRAP) is a powerful technique for assessing molecular diffusion, yet its localized measurement approach hinders whole-cell analysis. To overcome this limitation, we developed Probabilistic FRAP (Pro-FRAP), a novel approach that integrates FRAP with sequential Gaussian simulation (SGS), an advanced spatial statistical method incorporating probabilistic modeling to estimate diffusion in unmeasured regions. Pro-FRAP applies SGS to standardize measured FRAP data, perform conditional simulations based on spatial correlations, and generate statistically robust estimates. In separate analyses, numerical simulations were conducted to optimize the spatial arrangement of measurement points, enhancing data accuracy and coverage. Unlike deterministic interpolation methods, Pro-FRAP captures spatial variability and quantifies uncertainty in intracellular diffusion, providing a more detailed representation of molecular transport. Thus, this framework extends FRAP beyond localized measurements, offering a refined approach for mapping intracellular diffusion with improved spatial coverage and statistical reliability.

Significance statement

Understanding molecular diffusion is essential for deciphering cellular functions and regulation. However, conventional fluorescence recovery after photobleaching (FRAP) techniques are constrained to localized measurements, limiting their ability to capture diffusion dynamics across entire cells. Here, we describe Probabilistic FRAP (Pro-FRAP), a novel framework that integrates FRAP with sequential Gaussian simulation (SGS), a spatial statistical method that enables the estimation of molecular diffusion in unmeasured regions. By incorporating probabilistic modeling, Pro-FRAP generates high-resolution diffusion maps with enhanced statistical reliability. This approach provides a more comprehensive perspective on intracellular transport, allowing for deeper insights into the spatial organization of cellular processes.
Outcome payer perspectives on social impact bonds as mediating instruments
Authors: Pullen Tim , Smith David , Humphrey Jacquelyn , Benson Karen
Published: February 2025

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine how the practices, processes and expertise embedded within Social Impact Bonds (SIBs) distinctively mediate the tensions between outcome payers’ competing and contradictory programmatic discourses.

Design/methodology/approach

We use qualitative research methods and employ concepts drawn from the governmentality literature to analyse interviews with SIB outcome payers.

Findings

SIBs are shown to challenge the degree of negative influence of biopolitics, neoliberalism and financialization by highlighting a broader and more holistic set of influences. SIB operations pre-empt and counteract perceived risks and are refined through a “learning by doing” effect. In contrast to other approaches to funding social interventions, the SIB structure attributes and independently validates outcomes. Payments to investors are based on the achievement of outcomes and are funded by the outcome payers. SIBs’ operational processes allow the responsibilities of the various parties to be explicitly assigned and contracted. The interests are aligned, yet the cultural differences harnessed.

Originality/value

This paper is one of the first to apply governmentality concepts to SIBs. By focusing on outcome payers, the paper provides new perspectives on the practices, processes and expertise of governing and the programmatic discourses of governing, as well as their relationship. The insights offered are supported by one of the largest and most diverse empirical SIB samples including 34 interviews where 43 individuals reflect on their experiences across 32 unique outcome payer organisations.
Importance of repayment capacity in the quantitative rationing of agricultural credit in Benin
Authors: Assogba Kpossou Adjoua Roxène Priscille , Babadankpodji Adjoua Pascaline Ida , Gandonou Esaïe , Aoudji Augustin , Zannou Afio , Biaou Gauthier
Published: February 2025

Purpose

This paper analyzes the effect of repayment capacity on the quantitative rationing of credit to agricultural credit applicants.

Design/methodology/approach

The empirical analysis of credit supply involved 595 applicants for agricultural credit. The instrumental variable (IV) approach of probit and tobit was used to identify credit rationing factors.

Findings

All things being equal, a 1% increase in repayment capacity increases the amount received by 25% for large applicants, and 47% for small applicants. Other variables related to equity, participation rate, crops produced, reputation, age, activity stability and proximity influence the credit supply.

Research limitations/implications

The results of this study provide a theoretical basis for comparing small and large agricultural credit applicants, which is essential for better decision-making by financial institutions and the government. This article recommends that all applicants should have a good reputation and keep their business income and expenditure book up-to-date, that small applicants should invest in their business and improve their financial education and that large applicants should accumulate wealth and invest in perennial crops. As a limitation of this study, it would be possible to extend the data to other institutions using panel data.

Originality/value

The originality of this study lies in its consideration of the endogeneity problem between repayment capacity and credit rationing and, in a comparative analysis of small and large credit applicants. The results of this analysis will be used to adjust agricultural credit granting policies.
Amalgamating 4.0 technologies and traceability: exploring business value in food chains
Authors: Falcetti Izabela Postingel , Lago da Silva Andrea , Queiroz Maciel M.
Published: February 2025

Purpose

Over recent years, public health threats, economic losses and crises of confidence resulting from adverse events along the global food chains have pressured food traceability systems to operate more efficiently. Based on that, this paper aims to expand the body of knowledge on the connection between Industry 4.0 technologies and food chain traceability and how they have been integrated.

Design/methodology/approach

Before conducting a systematic literature review (SLR), we consulted academic experts in traceability and Industry 4.0 technologies to define the leading 4.0 technologies adopted. We then developed protocols and criteria for article selection. Based on the developed codebook, we performed a content analysis, refining it through discussions with experienced researchers.

Findings

This paper identified seven Industry 4.0 technologies applied in conjunction with support and device systems. These combinations hold promise for generating value for food chain traceability systems. Value for the food supply chain originates from five sources: trust, process improvement, data processing, security, sustainability and regulation. Besides, three barriers to implementing such traceability technologies were identified: resources, lack of structure, stakeholders and values.

Research limitations/implications

While this study focused specifically on the food chain, the technology combinations, values, barriers and categories identified herein can inform analyses for other chains, e.g. the pharmaceutical chain. Moreover, due to the recent growth of this topic, some existing values and barriers may not have been fully explored and the technology combinations may vary slightly.

Practical implications

The results of this study provide food chain professionals with a comprehensive understanding of the values and corresponding barriers associated with employing Industry 4.0 traceability technologies. This knowledge can be leveraged to develop effective strategies and implement improvements in traceability, thereby benefiting society and addressing identified barriers.

Originality/value

This study expands the literature on using Industry 4.0 technologies for traceability in food chains, providing valuable directions to build safer, more efficient, transparent and potentially more sustainable food chains. Additionally, we provide promising avenues for future research.
Impact of food waste-related course attendance on students’ food waste reduction behaviours and knowledge: a case study from Indonesia
Authors: Sitompul Carles , Gunawan Theresia , Mesiranta Nina , Närvänen Elina , Octavia Johanna Renny
Published: February 2025

Purpose

This study aims to examine food waste behaviours among university students in Indonesia by adapting the theory of planned behaviour (TPB) alongside the theory of domains of knowledge.

Design/methodology/approach

A total of 518 students at five Indonesian universities participated in an online survey, answering questions about their food waste behaviours based on the TPB and the domains of knowledge frameworks. Among them, 250 students had taken a course that covered the food waste topic, while 268 students had not taken the course. The data were later analysed by using partial least squares-structural equation modelling and measurement invariance across the composite models.

Findings

The findings reveal that environmental awareness, attitude towards food waste behaviours, subjective norms and different types of knowledge which are procedural knowledge, declarative knowledge, personal and social knowledge significantly influence food waste behaviour. Students who attended a course related to the food waste topic were more likely to align their intentions to reduce food waste with their reduction behaviour.

Originality/value

While previous research has highlighted the importance of the TPB in understanding food waste intentions and behaviour, studies also show that students’ knowledge about food waste plays a crucial role in shaping these intentions. This study builds on these insights by combining the TPB with the domains of knowledge theory, specifically looking at how participating in food waste-related courses influences food waste behaviours among Indonesian students.
Data systems in supply chain resilience: moderated moderating effects of enterprise resource planning
Authors: Sadeghi R Kiarash , Ojha Divesh , Azadegan Arash
Published: February 2025

Purpose

Outsourcing and offshoring practices have introduced a high level of complexity into operations and supply chains, involving suppliers and manufacturers from various locations to deliver value to final customers within an integrated information-sharing system such as enterprise resource planning (ERP). Such supply chains have been facing more cyberattacks, a ubiquitous problem and danger to businesses worldwide. Therefore, the research objective addresses these research questions: “What is the role of complexity in building cyber-resilience in supply chains? What is the role of ERP in complex supply chains?”

Design/methodology/approach

This paper proposes a research model that is empirically tested along with robustness tests such as endogeneity. To provide empirical data, this paper focused on supply chain relationships as the unit of analysis. The sample is selected from the USA employee population with experience in operations management and information technologies.

Findings

The findings indicate that ERP systems assist supply chains in reducing the adverse effects of downstream complexity on the efficacy of information sharing within secure systems for creating cyber resilience. Moreover, theoretical development showed that the more complex the supply chains are, the harder it is to create rents.

Practical implications

The findings underscore the importance of implementing cybersecurity frameworks such as ISO 27001, as well as regular training to mitigate threats such as phishing and social engineering. Despite the initial costs, such investments are vital for minimizing potential losses from breaches, which are estimated to cost around $4m on average globally.

Social implications

This research reveals the social impacts of supply chain cyber resilience through ERP systems, which emphasize the protection of consumer data, job security and public confidence. Cyber resilience and ERP systems help shield against data breaches, preserving privacy, preventing job losses and maintaining trust between people and industrial sectors.

Originality/value

The contribution is to propose the moderated moderating role of ERP in cyber resilience. This paper investigates the interaction effects of ERP and downstream complexity on the relationship between information sharing and cyber resilience. Moreover, this paper develops the relational view to consider the influential impacts of complexity in creating rents.
Innovative approaches to mental health care in Pakistan: perspectives from a nonprofit organization
Authors: Dayani Komal , Mughis Waliyah , Ali Uswa , Hashim Shahzor , Nafees Beenish , Sabri Taha
Published: February 2025

Purpose

Pakistan faces a high burden of mental illness, yet mental health care remains underprioritized. This paper aims to examine key challenges within Pakistan’s mental health-care system, such as inadequate infrastructure, stigma and limited access to mental health care. It highlights how a nonprofit organization addresses these issues using a multifaceted approach.

Design/methodology/approach

This perspective explores a comprehensive strategy that includes public awareness campaigns to reduce stigma, telephonic mental health services to enhance accessibility to mental health care and advocacy efforts to promote systemic change.

Findings

The integration of these approaches has the potential to improve mental health awareness, increase accessibility through a national helpline and develop community programs offering both digital and in-person support. These efforts demonstrate the promise of synchronous interventions to address mental health challenges effectively.

Originality/value

This paper provides a unique perspective on addressing mental health challenges in low-resource settings like Pakistan. It emphasizes the synergy of combining awareness, direct mental health support and advocacy efforts to create a scalable and sustainable mental health ecosystem while highlighting lessons applicable to other low-resource settings globally.
Count on me! Accounting consultancy for small businesses
Authors: do Nascimento Silva Cíntia , Pereira de Castro Casa Nova Silvia
Published: February 2025

Purpose

To characterize the consulting services provided by accountants to owner-managers of small businesses (OMSBs) in Brazil, addressing a significant gap in existing research.

Design/methodology/approach

A qualitative approach was employed, conducting 23 semi-structured interviews with OMSBs and specialists, analyzed using grounded theory techniques from an interpretivist perspective.

Findings

The study identifies three categories of accounting consultancy: tools, advisory and training. Accountant-consultants act as integrators, bridging diverse knowledge domains for less professionally managed businesses and connecting various resources or advisory professionals for more structured ones. Preparation in multiple areas, especially management, is considered crucial, alongside fostering trust and using clear, simple language. Collective consultancy and specialization in specific segments are suggested as mechanisms to ensure the economic viability of providing these services.

Research limitations/implications

The study provides insights into the nature of accounting consultancy for small businesses in Brazil but may not capture the full spectrum of practices across different regions or industries. Future research could explore these variations for a more comprehensive understanding.

Originality/value

This study addresses a significant gap in the literature by providing a detailed understanding of the consulting services offered by accountants to small businesses in Brazil, offering practical insights for both professionals and policymakers aiming to support this vital sector of the economy.
Exploring the feasibility and acceptability of digital reminiscence therapy for people with dementia in Jordanian care homes: a qualitative study
Authors: Abdalrahim Asem
Published: February 2025

Purpose

This study aims to explore the feasibility and acceptability of digital reminiscence therapy (RT) using touchscreen technology for people with dementia (PwD) in Jordanian care homes.

Design/methodology/approach

Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 14 residents and 7 care home staff.

Findings

Thematic analysis revealed four key themes: ease of use, supportive environment, engaging content and perceived positive impacts on quality of life (QoL). Participants highlighted enhanced communication, improved cognitive abilities and psychological well-being as primary benefits.

Research limitations/implications

These findings underscore the potential of digital RT to improve dementia care while adapting interventions to sociocultural contexts.

Originality/value

This study offers original insights into the feasibility and acceptability of digital RT in a Middle Eastern context, focusing on PwD in Jordanian care homes. By addressing the unique cultural and resource limitations of low- and middle-income countries, the study highlights the potential of culturally adapted, technology-enabled interventions to enhance QoL, communication and emotional well-being for PwD. The findings provide valuable guidance for practitioners and policymakers on integrating digital RT into dementia care practices, making a significant contribution to the global discourse on innovative, non-pharmacological approaches for older populations.
Food waste is embarrassing! Motivations and actions to prevent it among students in Italy
Authors: Palmieri Nadia , Boccia Flavio
Published: February 2025

Purpose

According to recent studies, young people are most inclined to waste food, and an important category is represented by students. Unlike other young people, they possess several characteristics that influence their food waste behaviour. For these reasons, this study aims to identify the elements that influence students’ behaviour towards food waste in Italy to provide insights on how to reduce food waste among young consumers.

Design/methodology/approach

In this exploratory research, a Web survey involving 1,066 Italian students was used, and, after a factor analysis, a hierarchical multiple linear regression model was applied.

Findings

The findings showed that, at a young age, the food thrown away and the reasons are positively associated with food waste, while the family size and the actions that students adopt to prevent food waste are negatively associated with it.

Practical implications

Recognizing that students are the people who will shape the food waste scenario of the future, it is important to implement educational paths about it and to raise consumer awareness. The findings might provide interesting insights on how to develop educational campaigns for specific target groups, such as students. In fact, the results underline that local institutions and retailers should be involved in educational campaigns aimed at both addressing the motivations behind food waste and improving the actions people take to prevent it.

Originality/value

The paper revisits the issue using a relatively large sample of Italian students (youths aged 16–18 years). The results provide valuable insights on how to approach hypothetical Italian students in view of the potential development of new strategies for reducing food waste.
A split ribozyme system for in vivo plant RNA imaging and genetic engineering
Authors: Liu Yang , Rajput Ruchika , Islam Md Torikul , Valle Ilenne Del , Yao Tao , Agrawal Rekha , Boone Brandon A. , Eckert Carrie A. , Abraham Paul E. , Chen Jin‐Gui , Tuskan Gerald A. , Yang Xiaohan
Published: February 2025

RNA plays a central role in plants, governing various cellular and physiological processes. Monitoring its dynamic abundance provides a discerning understanding of molecular mechanisms underlying plant responses to internal (developmental) and external (environmental) stimuli, paving the way for advances in plant biotechnology to engineer crops with improved resilience, quality and productivity. In general, traditional methods for analysis of RNA abundance in plants require destructive, labour‐intensive and time‐consuming assays. To overcome these limitations, we developed a transformative innovation for in vivo RNA imaging in plants. Specifically, we established a synthetic split ribozyme system that converts various RNA signals to orthogonal protein outputs, enabling in vivo visualisation of various RNA signals in plants. We demonstrated the utility of this system in transient expression experiments (i.e., leaf infiltration in Nicotiana benthamiana) to detect RNAs derived from transgenes and tobacco rattle virus, respectively. Also, we successfully engineered a split ribozyme‐based biosensor in Arabidopsis thaliana for in vivo visualisation of endogenous gene expression at the cellular level, demonstrating the feasibility of multi‐scale (e.g., cellular and tissue level) RNA imaging in plants. Furthermore, we developed a platform for easy incorporation of different protein outputs, allowing for flexible choice of reporters to optimise the detection of target RNAs.
New Electro-Active Polymers-Based Plasma Actuators for Simultaneous Flow Control and Ice Protection
Authors: Mbanguine L. A. , Rodrigues F. F. , Páscoa J. C.
Published: February 2025

The current work introduces a new device for effective flow control and ice removal applications based on the combination of a nonthermal plasma discharge with the excitation of an electro-active polymer membrane. This new device designated electro-active polymer (EAP) plasma actuator is particularly interesting for aeronautic and wind power applications since it allows to perform simultaneous flow control and ice removal operations. To prove the concept, in the current work, an electro-active polymer-based plasma actuator device is fabricated and experimentally tested. For the initial tests a “VHB 4910” from 3 M was used as dielectric layer and electrically conductive grease was utilized to fabricate the flexible electrodes. The results demonstrate that this new concept is feasible, and the EAP plasma actuator is able to elongate up to 80% for an applied voltage of 7 kV. In addition, it is proved it can generate induced flow velocities above 2 m/s and, simultaneously, it is able to increase the surface temperature above 100 °C. In comparison to conventional plasma actuator, the new EAP actuator brings several other advantages mainly for de-icing purposes since the electro-active polymer movement will difficult the ice adhesion and help to expel the ice from the surface.
The Influence of Oblique Tunnel Portals and Blockage Ratio on the Aerodynamic Performance of Urban Rapid Rail Tunnels
Authors: Weng Miaocheng , Zhang Yu , Xiong Kang , Liu Fang , Zhu Xinyi , Zou Zhenbo
Published: February 2025

The study aims to understand the differences in aerodynamic pressure between urban rapid rail transit and high-speed railway tunnels caused by different tunnel portal structures. In this paper, a three-dimensional compressible turbulent flow model is used to simulate trains entering tunnels with three portal forms. The effects of tunnel portal forms and blockage ratio on the aerodynamic interaction between trains and tunnels are analyzed. Using full-scale test data, the reliability of simulating train entry into the tunnel is verified. Based on validated simulations, peak values and maximum pressure gradients are investigated for three scenarios mentioned above. As a result, the transient pressure caused by the three types of the inclined portals does not differ significantly, but it affects a train?s surface pressure varies over time. The ring oblique as well as reversed ring oblique portals both reduce primary compression wave?s maximal pressure gradient, while reversed ring oblique portal exhibiting better performance. In addition, the study also identifies a critical blockage ratio, which determines the opposing effects of the two portal types in mitigating the aerodynamic interaction.
Static and Dynamic Time Filtering Techniques for Hybrid RANS-LES Simulation of Non-Stationary Turbulent Flows
Authors: Jamal Tausif , Shobayo Olalekan , Walters D. Keith , Bhushan Shanti
Published: February 2025

Unsteady turbulent wall bounded flows can include complex flow physics such as temporally varying mean pressure gradients, intermittent regions of high turbulence intensity, and interaction of different scales of motion. The present study investigates the performance of the dynamic hybrid RANS-LES (DHRL) modeling framework for non-stationary turbulent flows using two variants of an exponential temporal filter for calculating statistics of the resolved turbulent flow. The first adopts a static filter size (static exponential time filtering?SETF) based on the characteristic time scale of imposed mean flow unsteadiness. The second uses a dynamic filter size (dynamic exponential time filtering?DETF) to vary the filter size based on local statistics of the resolved turbulent flow. Both of the time-filtered variants and the baseline (stationary) form of DHRL are compared against an industry standard Reynolds Averaged Navier-Stokes (RANS) model, Monotonically Integrated Large Eddy Simulation (MILES), and a conventional hybrid RANS-LES (HRL) models. Model performance is evaluated based on comparison to previously documented Direct Numerical Simulation (DNS) and Large Eddy Simulation (LES) results. Simulations are performed for a fully developed flow in a channel with time-periodic driving pressure gradient. Results highlight the relative merits of each model type and indicate that the use of a time-filtering technique improves the accuracy of the DHRL model for non-stationary flow, and that a dynamic filter offers clear advantages over a static filter.
Design of Experiments Informed Investigation of Magnetic Field Assisted Nickel Electroplating on Copper
Authors: Balsamy-Kamaraj Abishek , Merugu Saketh , Mahajan Chaitanya , Gupta Dr. Anju
Published: February 2025

Nickel coatings have demonstrated significant benefits in protecting copper from oxidation and fouling, thereby enhancing the longevity of copper-based components. This study employed an electroplating apparatus featuring a Watts bath and copper electrode to investigate the impact of flowing electrolyte, both with and without an applied magnetic field, on the interfacial characteristics of nickel-coated copper surfaces. The findings reveal the relationship between current density and deposition thickness. The application of a perpendicular magnetic field and increase in current density generally increased coating thickness to 0.2 ?m from 0.05 ?m, with the most pronounced effects at moderate flow rates and narrower gaps; however, at the highest flow rate and widest gap, deposition thickness diminished due to the divergence of magnetic field lines. Design of Experiments analysis revealed the magnetic field homogeneously improved surface roughness uniformity compared to other variables. Lower current densities produced smoother surfaces, while magnetically-assisted electroplating yielded consistent roughness values even at higher current densities. Exposure to the magnetic field improved wettability, evidenced by decreased contact angles. This enhancement is attributed to the alignment of nickel particles during deposition, facilitating a transition from the Cassie-Baxter to the Wenzel wetting state. Notably, thicker deposits were observed at lower flow rates and narrower electrode gaps, suggesting significant influence of gas bubble dynamics on the deposition process. These findings provide insights into the complex interplay between electrochemical reactions, hydrodynamics, and magnetic fields in nickel electrodeposition, with implications for optimizing coating.
A Mathematical Model Design for Pu Content Analyzed by 244Cm in Spent Fuel of Fast Reactors
Authors: Zhao Jinlei , He Lixia , Zhao Haocheng , Zhang Yuqi , Li Wentao
Published: February 2025

Pyroprocessing is employed in the reprocessing of integral fast reactors (IFRs). According to China's domestic regulations of nuclear material control, analysis of the content of uranium (U) and plutonium (Pu) should be carried out during the interval from unloading spent fuel to its transition into pyroprocessing. Nondestructive analysis (NDA) is a common technique to analyze the content of U/Pu in spent fuel. However, due to the high radio activity of spent fuel from fast reactors, the complexity of the signal characteristics, and the weak signal from Pu, it isn't easy to apply conventional NDA techniques directly. The article studies the reaction principle between 244Cm and Pu, which provides a theoretical basis for new NDA methods to indirectly measure the content of U/Pu through 244Cm. A model based on the one-speed neutron-diffusion equation, which selects burnup (BU), cooling time (CT), initial enrichment of uranium (IE), and the mass of 244Cm to characterize the physical properties of the spent fuel, is established and validated in the article. On this basis, the liquid metal fast breeder reactors are simulated to obtain the information of plutonium and curium of 336 groups under different BU/CT/IE, and the nonlinear multivariate regression model of Pu content concerning the BU/CT/IE and 244Cm content is obtained by using the nonlinear multiple regression analysis, and R2 is greater than 0.99.
Survival Signature-Based Structural Importance Analysis of Multistate System With Binary-State Components
Authors: Mutar Emad Kareem , Hassan Zahir Abdul Haddi
Published: February 2025

System reliability analysis aims to identify a system’s weaknesses or critical components and quantify their failures’ impact. Analyzing the influence of system components on system failure is a common problem in reliability engineering, known as the importance analysis of a system. Reliability analysis uses two main models: the binary-state system and the multistate system (MSS). To evaluate the reliability of MSS with binary-state components, computing methods of survival signature are studied. The structural functions of MSS and the survival signature allow for various mathematical approaches, including logical differential calculus (LDC). LDC can be employed to identify situations where a change in the number of functioning components leads to a change in the system's state, known as the structural importance measure. This paper presents a technique for calculating structural importance measures of MSS with binary-state components. The technique uses the survival signature of MSS instead of the structure function. It is based on logical differential calculus, specifically direct partial logical derivatives (DPLD). Numerical and application examples are provided to demonstrate and validate the technique, exhibiting its superiority and potential for real engineering use.
Propagation of systematic sensor uncertainty into the frequency domain
Authors: Rexer Manuel , Pelz Peter F. , Kuhr Maximilian Markus Georg
Published: February 2025

When it comes to the identification of dynamic system parameters, like stiffness and damping, the systematic measurement uncertainty is mostly ignored in the frequency domain because of its complicated and elaborate uncertainty propagation. Nevertheless, the uncertainty is far from being negligible. In order to examine the importance of the systematic measurement uncertainty in the frequency domain, the propagation of systematic uncertainty caused by four different sensor error types is investigated by using Monte Carlo simulations. It is shown that an uncertainty in the bias only affects static measurements, i.e. with an excitation frequency of the system being equal to 0. Furthermore, the uncertainty of the linearity and sensitivity only impacts the magnitude of the Fourier coefficient, whereas the uncertainty in the hysteresis results only in an uncertainty in the phase. Subsequently, it is shown that the linearity and hysteresis uncertainty are completely independent in the frequency domain. The results lead to simple propagation relations applicable to various engineering, science and industry challenges without the need for the conduction of complex Monte Carlo simulations.
Supplemental Material: Dynamic sedimentary environments controlled by tectonic processes and sediment supply: Insights from the Yangjiang Sag in the northern South China Sea
Authors: Li Fakun , Dai Liming , et al.
Published: February 2025

Supplemental Text S1 includes the working principles of the two main methodologies used in this study. One explains the principles of the 3-D tectonic restoration method, and the other explains the principles of the numerical landscape evolution models (Badlands). Figure S1 is the paleo-geomorphological reconstruction results based on the 3-D tectonic restoration method, which was used for the correction of the erosion coefficients in the depositional dynamic processes.
Supplemental Material: Magnetostratigraphy and U-Pb geochronology of the middle Eocene Bridger Formation (Wyoming, USA): Implications for the age and correlation of the Bridgerian/Uintan NALMA boundary and calibration of the Geomagnetic Polarity Time Scale
Authors: Tsukui Kaori , et al.
Published: February 2025

Supplemental Material includes raw data of paleomagnetic and U-Pb analyses and detailed information on the sampled paleomagnetic sections in the Bridger Basin. Also included are background on the study area as well as previous chronostratigraphic correlations of the key bio- and magnetostratigraphic sections from the study interval.
Supplemental Material: Late Miocene expansion of grasslands in northwest Argentina linked to shifting hydroclimate: A complex interaction among tectonics, climate, and ecology
Authors: Azmi Iffat , et al.
Published: February 2025

Supplemental materials include a data file with raw data and a text file containing biomarker analysis interpretations along with exemplar phytolith figures.