bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enrichment of rare CFTR variants in Finnish patients with congenital chloride diarrhea
Authors: Wedenoja Satu , Ritari Jarmo , Partanen Jukka , Kere Juha , Kolho Kaija-Leena
Published: February 2025

Objective

The autosomal recessive disease congenital chloride diarrhea (CLD), caused by loss-of-function mutations in the solute carrier family 26 member 3 (SLC26A3) gene, shows association with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). However, it is unclear whether IBD risk is associated with genetic or immune signatures. SLC26A3 interacts with several ion transporters linked to intestinal inflammation, such as cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) and solute carrier family 9 member 3 (SLC9A3) causing congenital sodium diarrhea. We hypothesized that other epithelial channels affecting intestinal salt balance might modulate CLD phenotype or IBD risk.

Materials and methods

We analyzed 495 gene variants within 33 ion transporters among 28 patients with CLD and 44,443 population controls.

Results

We found three intronic variants at or near the CFTR locus (rs17132543, rs2283054 and rs76622533) showing statistically significant (P < 1.42x10-5) associations with CLD.

Conclusions

These data demonstrate enrichment of rare variants at the CFTR locus in chromosomes harboring the Finnish founder mutation for CLD.
Redox cycling of sulfur via microbes in soil boosts the bioavailability of nutrients to Brassica napus
Authors: Aslam Rabia , Jilani Ghulam , Alam Tajwar , -Haq Zia–Ul , Bhatti Ambreen , Ullah Riaz , Naz Iram , Ikram Muhammad , Fatima Nida , Ali Essam A. , Zahoor Muhammad , Zaman Shah
Published: February 2025

Deficiency of sulfur (S) has been recognized for both dry and wetland plants as a significant growth limiting factor. S-oxidizers enhance the oxidation rate of S and increase sulfate (SO4 − 2) production by making them available in critical growth stages, resulting in higher plant growth and yield. A two-phase study was undertaken to assess the effectiveness of microbial redox reactions on soil nutrient bioavailability and crop growth. In the first phase isolation of S bacteria was carried out while in the second phase, a pot experiment was conducted and these bacteria were evaluated as a nutrient source along with different ratios of NPK fertilizer by growing canola (Brassica napus) as a test crop. Treatment combinations were, viz., Control (no inoculum), ½ NPK fertilizer (50, 30, and 25 kg ha−1), Full NPK fertilizer (100, 60, and 50 kg ha−1), ½ NPK+SOB, ½  NPK+SRB and ½ NPK+SOB+SRB. Sulfur oxidizing bacteria (SOB) strains were isolated from samples and then screened based on pH reduction (in thiosulphate broth). Sulfur-reducing bacteria (SRB) are characterized by their anaerobic energy metabolism based on the dissimilatory reduction of SO4−2 to hydrogen sulfide (H2S) or S ° to be useful for SOB. Among different bacterial consortiums, the best results for nutrient bioavailability (macro- and micronutrient) in soil and plant the treatment ½ NPK+SOB+SRB compared to full NPK increased soil N, P, K, and SO₄ by 15.9%, 38%, 2.0%, and 72%, respectively. In plants, it boosted N, K, and SO₄ by 7.7%, 31%, and 239%, respectively. The greatest pH reduction (4%) was observed with ½ NPK+SOB relative to full NPK. This study demonstrates that microbial inoculation along with ½ NPK increases the bioavailability of macro- and micronutrients for crops.
Histomorphology of placentae of women with sickle cell disease during pregnancy – A case control study
Authors: Mumuni Mohammed , Adutwum-Ofosu Kevin Kofi , Arko-Boham Benjamin , Hottor Bismarck Afedo , Koney Nii Koney-Kwaku , Adu-Bonsaffoh Kwame , Oppong Samuel Antwi , Appiah Peter Ofori , Ahenkorah John
Published: February 2025

Background

Sickle cell disease (SCD) is known to exert multifaceted effects on pregnancy, potentially influencing placental structure and function.

Aim

Our aim was to utilize stereology as a precise analytical tool to evaluate the histo-morphologic and functional changes in term placentae of women with SCD against those of non-SCD women.

Method

A case control study was conducted at the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital’s labour unit and included 38 pregnant women, comprising 19 cases and 19 controls. Placenta samples were paired and matched with gestational age and taken at term (38 weeks + 2 weeks). Tissue sections were prepared, stained with hematoxylin and eosin, and volume densities of syncytial knots, foetal capillaries, syncytial denuded areas, and intervillous spaces estimated by stereological methods. Statistical analysis was performed to compare mean values between the SCD and control groups.

Results

Among the study participants with SCD, 13.16% (5) had sickle cell haemoglobin S (HbSS), 34.21% (13) had haemoglobin C (HbSC) and 2.63% (1) had β-thalassemia (HbS). On stereological assessment, there were statistically significant differences in mean volume densities of syncytial knots (p = < 0.0034), foetal capillaries (p = < 0.0001), syncytial denudations (p = < 0.0028), and intervillous space (p = < 0.0113) between term placentae of women with SCD and those without SCD.

Conclusion

SCD placentae may result in a substantial increase in syncytial knot formation, possibly because of hypermaturation of the chorionic villi, significant increase in foetal capillaries potentially due to the hypoxic nature of the SCD placentae, syncytial denuded areas as a result of alteration of the placental syncytium and reduced intervillous spaces which may be due to villous congestion. These findings suggest the need for heightened monitoring of placental function and fetal well-being in pregnancies complicated by SCD to reduce adverse perinatal outcomes.
Protocol to establish standards for the elements infection prevention and control programs and competencies for infection control professionals in Australian residential aged care homes
Authors: Shaban Ramon Z. , Curtis Kate , Fry Margaret , McCormack Brendan , Parker Deborah , Macbeth Deborough , Mitchell Brett G. , Russo Phillip L. , Friedman N. Deborah , Bennett Noleen , Thompson Lucy , Dalton Jo-Ann , Dempsey Kathy , Henderson Belinda , Considine Julie , Bowes Rachel , Campbell Elise , Powell Merrick , Viengkham Catherine
Published: February 2025

The COVID-19 pandemic elucidated the importance of infection prevention and control (IPC) in residential aged care homes (RACHs), both on the health and wellbeing of its residents, and the staff and clinicians who care for them. While considerable efforts have been made in Australia to improve IPC both during and in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, many of these resources remain reliant on evidence originating from hospitals and acute healthcare settings. This research aims to establish the core minimum components that will populate standards for IPC programs and governance (Stream A) and for professional practice and competencies (Stream B) in RACHs. This research will be completed using a sequential three-phase design. In Phase 1, two integrative literature reviews will be completed to synthesise the elements of current global IPC programs and professional competencies in RACHs. In Phase 2, a qualitative analysis of IPC programs and professional practice in Australian RACHs using a combination of surveys and interviews will be completed. Finally, in Phase 3, an e-Delphi will be conducted to collate expert opinion and generate consensus on the minimum components of the IPC program and professionals who administer them in RACHs. The final standards and resources will be collaboratively designed with aged care partners, industry leaders, professional bodies and key Australian health policymakers. These standards seek to empower IPC and aged care staff, not only by ensuring that they are well-equipped with the knowledge and skills to implement effective IPC programs themselves, but also that the organisation is adequately prepared to provide the resources and governance systems.
The effect of labour hopscotch framework on maternal and neonatal outcomes in pregnant women: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Askari Saeedeh , Iravani Mina , Abedi Parvin , Cheraghian Bahman , Mohammadi Eesa , Jahanfar Shayesteh
Published: February 2025

The Labour Hopscotch Framework (LHF) is a practical tool designed for women to use with the support of their birthing partners throughout labor and birth. It was specifically developed to help midwives support women in achieving a physiological birth. We conducted a randomized controlled trial to evaluate the impact of the LHF on maternal and neonatal outcomes. The study took place from March 2023 to October 2023 in Ahvaz, Iran. A total of 124 primiparous women with full-term pregnancies were recruited and randomly allocated to either the intervention or control group. Eligible participants for the study included women who were 18 years of age or older, had cephalopelvic proportions within normal limits, were carrying low-risk singleton pregnancies, and had attended childbirth education classes. Women were excluded if they had contraindications for vaginal birth, were carrying a fetus with abnormalities, or had medical conditions that could complicate childbirth. Birth mode, average duration of the labor phases, maternal and neonatal outcomes, and overall childbirth satisfaction were assessed as outcomes.

Women who used the LHF experienced shorter labor durations compared to the control group (d =  -1.3 min, 95% CI: -1.6 to -0.8). Women using the LHF were 10.3 times more likely to experience a vaginal birth (OR =  10.3, 95% CI: 1.3-88.5, p = 0.030). Women in the LHF group initiated breastfeeding earlier than those in the control group (OR = 20.4, 95% CI:7.7-53.3, p < 0.001), but no difference between the two groups for exclusive breastfeeding (p = 0.496). Two groups did not show any significant difference in neonatal outcomes. The mean satisfaction score was higher among women with LHF compared to women in the control group (d = 2.3, 95% CI: 1.8 to 2.8), p < 0.001). The LHF can increase the rate of physiological births and reduce the duration of the labor phases. Also, women were more satisfied with their birth experiences.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov IRCT20161106030750N2
Revisiting CPSF30-mediated alternative polyadenylation in Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Hao Guijie , Zhou Lichun , Liu Huazhen , Kachroo Pradeep , Hunt Arthur G.
Published: February 2025

Alternative polyadenylation (APA) is an important contributor to the regulation of gene expression in plants. One subunit of the complex that cleaves and polyadenylates mRNAs in the nucleus, CPSF30 (for the 30 kD subunit of the mammalian Cleavage and Polyadenylation Specificity Factor), has been implicated in a wide-ranging network of regulatory events. CPSF30 plays roles in root development, flowering time, and response to biotic and abiotic stresses. CPSF30 also is a conduit that links cellular signaling and RNA modification with alternative RNA processing events and transcriptional dynamics. While much is known about CPSF30 and its roles in plants, questions remain regarding the connections between CPSF30-mediated APA and the downstream events that lead to specific phenotypic outcomes. To address these, we conducted a detailed analysis of poly(A) site usage in the CPSF30 mutant. Our results corroborate earlier reports that link CPSF30 with a distinctive cis element (AAUAAA) that is present 10-30 nts upstream of some, but not all, plant pre-mRNAs. Interestingly, our results reveal a distinctive shift in poly(A) site in mutants deficient in CPSF30, resulting in cleavage and polyadenylation at the location of motifs similar to AAUAAA. Importantly, CPSF30-associated APA had at best a small impact on mRNA functionality. These results necessitate the formulation of new hypotheses for mechanisms by which CPSF30-mediated APA influences physiological processes.
SARS-CoV-2 Omicron subvariant genomic variation associations with immune evasion in Northern California: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Nugent Joshua R. , Wood Mariah S. , Liu Liyan , Bullick Teal , Schapiro Jeffrey M. , Arunleung Phacharee , Gautham Gautham , Getabecha Shiffen , Morales Christina , Amsden Laura B. , Hsiao Crystal A. , Wadford Debra A. , Wyman Stacia K. , Skarbinski Jacek
Published: February 2025

Background

The possibility of association between SARS-CoV-2 genomic variation and immune evasion is not known among persons with Omicron variant SARS-CoV-2 infection.

Methods

In a retrospective cohort, using Poisson regression adjusting for sociodemographic variables and month of infection, we examined associations between individual non-lineage defining mutations and SARS-CoV-2 immunity status, defined as a) no prior recorded infection, b) not vaccinated but with at least one prior recorded infection, c) complete primary series vaccination, and/or d) primary series vaccination and ≥1 booster. We identified all non-synonymous single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), insertions and deletions in SARS-CoV-2 genomes with ≥5% allelic frequency and population frequency of ≥5% and ≤95%. We also examined correlations between the presence of SNPs with each other, with subvariants, and over time.

Results

Seventy-nine mutations met inclusion criteria. Among 15,566 persons infected with Omicron SARS-CoV-2, 1,825 (12%) were unvaccinated with no prior recorded infection, 360 (2%) were unvaccinated with a recorded prior infection, 13,381 (86%) had a complete primary series vaccination, and 9,172 (58%) had at least one booster. After examining correlation between SNPs, 79 individual non-lineage defining mutations were organized into 38 groups. After correction for multiple testing, no individual SNPs or SNP groups were significantly associated with immunity status levels.

Conclusions

Genomic variation identified within SARS-CoV-2 Omicron specimens was not significantly associated with immunity status, suggesting that contribution of non-lineage defining SNPs to immune evasion is minimal. Larger-scale surveillance of SARS-CoV-2 genomes linked with clinical data can help provide information to inform future vaccine development.
Deeper Effects of fiscal multidimensional poverty reduction: household characteristics, financial lags and elite capture
Authors: Jiang Wenjie , Yang Hong , Liu Chunyu
Published: February 2025

The governance of multidimensional relative poverty is a key challenge in rural poverty alleviation in the new era, as well as an important practice of the implementation of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals in China. Based on provincial fiscal and financial data as well as data from the China Family Panel Studies (CFPS), this article employs multilevel linear regression and structural equation modeling to empirically examine the impact and mechanisms of fiscal investment in agriculture on multidimensional relative poverty among farmers. The research results indicate that fiscal investment in agriculture can effectively alleviate multidimensional relative poverty among rural households, and this conclusion still holds after the robustness and endogeneity tests of traditional measurement and Double Machine Learning. However, differences in household characteristics affect the performance of fiscal poverty alleviation. Households in the central and western regions, with larger family sizes, younger members, and lower levels of education, exhibit higher policy responsiveness. In terms of mechanisms, digital inclusive finance and social capital serve as important channels for fiscal multidimensional poverty reduction. However, attention should be paid to the positive lag effect of digital inclusive finance and the risk of “elite capture” in households with low levels of social capital. Accordingly, the article recommends that fiscal spending should be increased and made more efficient, with precise policy measures, strengthened institutional coordination, and efforts to cultivate optimal levels of social capital. While the article is limited by data availability to allow for a more in-depth and complex discussion, it still provides insights for fiscal strategies aimed at building high-quality shared prosperity.
Knowledge building and vocabulary growth: Assessing the impact of seamless Chinese vocabulary learning for international students
Authors: Zhou Xiaosheng , Goh Ying Soon
Published: February 2025

This study investigates the effectiveness of Seamless Chinese Vocabulary Learning (SCVL) among international students learning Chinese as a Foreign Language (CFL) to foster vocabulary knowledge building. A new theoretical framework of SCVL was introduced and validated to guide this exploration. The research involved 32 international students enrolled in a Chinese university. Data collection included Chinese Lexical Frequency Profile (LFP) were at HSK Level 4, a SCVL questionnaire, and semi-structured interviews. The findings indicate that SCVL significantly enhances students’ HSK Level 4 vocabulary learning and retention across diverse performance groups over time, while also providing a positive and engaging learning experience. SCVL creates an authentic and repetition-enabled learning context, fostering higher levels of interaction and multi-modal, immediate, and learner-friendly scaffolding. Moreover, the study reveals that SCVL motivates students to actively participate in vocabulary acquisition, despite facing certain challenges. By incorporating the SCVL framework, language instructors can enhance their pedagogical practices and promote sustainable language learning outcomes. Future research is recommended to include a broader range of learners with diverse backgrounds and language proficiency levels, as well as to compare seamless learning with traditional learning approaches. Additionally, exploring CFL teachers’ perceptions of SCVL would be valuable to further understand its impact on language instruction.
Preoperative antihypertensives and hypotension during bladder tumor resection with oral 5-aminolevulinic acid administration
Authors: Kondo Yuriko , Mihara Takahiro , Yoshikawa Nanako , Echigo Noriyuki , Nagamine Yusuke , Goto Takahisa
Published: February 2025

5-Aminolevulinic acid hydrochloride (5-ALA), a photodynamic diagnostic agent, visualizes bladder cancer. Previous research has indicated that preoperative intake of 5-ALA leads to a higher incidence of hypotension. Particularly in patients with hypertension, suggestions include discontinuing antihypertensive medications on the morning of surgery to prevent hypotension. However, the effects of antihypertensive drugs on hypotension in patients taking 5-ALA before surgery remains unexamined. We conducted a single-center observational study that included patients aged 20 and above who were regularly taking antihypertensives and underwent transurethral resection of bladder tumors (TURBT) after taking 5-ALA. Patients who took antihypertensives on the morning of surgery were defined as the continued group, whereas those who did not were defined as the discontinued group. Hypotension was defined as a mean blood pressure (MBP) of less than 65 mmHg for 20 min or longer. To adjust for confounding factors, we used propensity scores for inverse probability weighting and performed modified Poisson regression analysis to calculate risk ratios (RRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). We analyzed 132 cases. The crude incidence of hypotension was higher in the continued group compared to the discontinued group (33/51 [64.7%] vs 38/81 [46.9%]; RR 1.38, 95% CI 1.01–1.88; p =  0.041). However, no significant difference was observed between groups after adjustment (RR 1.05, 95% CI 0.66–1.68). In conclusion, the adjusted results suggested no significant association between the continuation of antihypertensive medication and the incidence of intraoperative hypotension. No substantial justification was provided for routinely discontinuing antihypertensive medications.
Message framing materials applied to healthy eating decision-making for pregnant women with gestational diabetes mellitus: An exploratory study
Authors: Han Xia , Xu Nuo , Chen Sijing , Zhang Jingjing , Gu Ping
Published: February 2025

Aims

To develop and initially validate message framing materials for promoting healthy dietary decisions in GDM populations.

Methods

The Delphi survey involved 17 experts, and consensus was obtained after two rounds. In Pre-survey I, 30 participants randomly selected one material (gain framing vs. loss framing) and complete a manipulation check item to ensure that the stimulus material manipulation was valid. Pre-survey II involved 60 participants who rated all messages using a Likert 5 rating questionnaire, a Wilcoxon signed rank sum test was used to examine the message framing effects.

Results

After two rounds of Delphi surveys, experts reached consensus on the final materials, which contained two message framings, each containing 11 entries. The manipulation test for materials achieved 100% validity. The findings indicated significant message framing effects on healthy eating decisions among GDM populations, with loss-framed messages proving more persuasive.

Conclusion

Scientifically valid message framing materials were developed and initially applied, providing an empirical basis and direction for future related research.
Interaction of the endogenous antibody response with activating FcγRs enhance control of Mayaro virus through monocytes
Authors: Dunagan Megan M. , Dábilla Nathânia , McNinch Colton , Brenchley Jason M. , Dolan Patrick T. , Fox Julie M.
Published: February 2025

Mayaro virus (MAYV) is an emerging arbovirus. Previous studies have shown antibody Fc effector functions are critical for optimal monoclonal antibody-mediated protection against alphaviruses; however, the requirement of Fc gamma receptors (FcγRs) for protection during natural infection has not been evaluated. Here, we showed mice lacking activating FcγRs (FcRγ−/−) developed prolonged clinical disease with increased MAYV in joint-associated tissues. Viral reduction was associated with anti-MAYV cell surface binding antibodies rather than neutralizing antibodies. Lack of Fc-FcγR engagement increased the number of monocytes present in the joint-associated tissue through chronic timepoints. Single-cell RNA sequencing showed elevated levels of pro-inflammatory monocytes in joint-associated tissue with increased MAYV RNA present in FcRγ−/− monocytes and macrophages. Transfer of FcRγ−/− monocytes into wild type animals was sufficient to increase virus in joint-associated tissue. Overall, this study suggests that engagement of antibody Fc with activating FcγRs promotes protective responses during MAYV infection and prevents a pro-viral role for monocytes.
Location-Based Games as Tools for Leisure in a Military Community
Authors: Da Silva Jenkins Anabela Pimentel , Lebres Aires Maria Luísa
Published: February 2025

Digital media increasingly affect how people interact with their surroundings, leading to rising levels of indoor screen time. This study examines how locative media technologies can enhance meaningful leisure and learning experiences in outdoor settings. Our goal is to understand the role of location-based games in improving outdoor leisure by implementing a geolocation program within a military community at an Armed Forces base. Therefore, we conducted a qualitative case study based on the principles of the design-based research (DBR) method. By developing, implementing, and using a location-based game prototype, we increased contact with nature and found that locative play encourages learning in outdoor leisure contexts. We also found that the digital locative game promoted a sense of social belonging and positively impacted intergenerational activities, highlighting the immense potential of locative media and ubiquitous learning in outdoor leisure experiences and the creation of new educational opportunities.
condição socioespacial do/no centro histórico de Fortaleza em tempos de pandemia
Authors: Da Silva Porto Neto Edilson , Amorin Wagner Vinícius
Published: February 2025

A pandemia provocada pelo Novo Corona vírus que se manifestou em nível planetário gerou numerosos problemas sanitários, políticos, econômicos e, principalmente, sociais. Diante disso, muitos esforços vêm sendo empreendidos para desacelerar os casos de infecção pelos países e cidades, impactando diretamente na presença física dos citadinos nos espaços públicos e nas áreas centrais. O artigo tem como objetivo analisar os usos, as percepções, os sentimentos e as motivações das pessoas que frequentam o centro histórico de Fortaleza, capital do estado do Ceará, durante o contexto pandêmico. Foram aplicadas 100 (cem) enquetes em cinco praças consideradas históricas do centro da cidade, a saber: a Praça do Ferreira, a Praça dos Leões, a Praça José de Alencar, a Praça Coração de Jesus e mediações do Passeio Público. A partir dos dados coletados em campo, buscou-se compreender quais as relações, os vínculos afetivos e históricos-identitários e as percepções desses respondentes com relação ao centro histórico e os impactos evidenciados em seus percursos e experiência socioespacial urbana em tempos de pandemia, especialmente em dias que antecederam o segundo lockdown no estado do Ceará.
Palavras-chave: Centro histórico de Fortaleza; Pandemia; Espaços públicos; Experiência urbana; Lockdown.
Reflexões sobre a paisagem cárstica não tradicional da caverna Serra das Andorinhas/Pará-Brasil
Authors: Alencar Diêmison Ladislau de , Pedro Miyazaki Leda Correia , Mascarenhas Abraão Levi dos Santos
Published: February 2025

A Caverna Serra das Andorinhas é uma das feições geomorfológicas da Serra das Andorinhas/Martírios, e passou a ser denominada como Parque Estadual da Serra dos Martírios/Andorinhas e Área de Proteção Ambiental de São Geraldo do Araguaia, quando tombada. É considerada uma província espeleológica quartzítica do PESAM, cuja interação entre processos geológicos e geomorfológicos ao longo do tempo resultaram em uma paisagem que se destaca no município. O objetivo desse estudo foi analisar os aspectos morfogenéticos e morfodinâmicos da área, sobretudo da Caverna. As bases metodológicas para tal estudo foram compostas pesquisa e revisão bibliográfica, trabalhos de campo, elaboração de mapas temáticos com o intuito de reconhecer as principais características naturais e registros fotográficos. Como resultados dessa investigação, verificou-se que a paisagem da Serra se enquadra como cárstica não tradicional, sendo formada em grande parte por rochas não carbonáticas, devido a presença da rocha metamórfica quartzito. Além disso, foi possível verificar registros de processos morfogenéticos e morfodinâmicos, sendo identificados por meio das feições geomorfológicas presentes na Caverna Serra das Andorinhas.
ANÁLISE DAS REDES DE FLUXO À PACIENTES COM CÂNCER DE PRÓSTATA:
Authors: Rodrigues Aguiar Jaqueline , Toneli Wilian , Francis Carnielle Cleiton , Henrique Palhares Ricardo
Published: February 2025

O câncer de próstata ocorre especificamente em homens, e devido ao aumento da expectativa de vida teve sua incidência intensificada. Esses pacientes se deslocam dos seus municípios em busca de cuidados, para cidades consideradas polos de cuidado oncológico. O objetivo deste estudo é verificar a prevalência do câncer de próstata de pacientes atendidos na macrorregião Norte de Minas Gerais no período de 2017 a 2020, a partir de uma caracterização do tratamento oncológico de próstata na macrorregião de Montes Claros. Questionamos se, os desgastes provocados pelo deslocamento podem impactar no tratamento. A pesquisa baseia-se em uma abordagem quantitativa, exploratória e por meio de uma revisão da literatura e de dados do Painel de Oncologia (2021). A tipologia para o mapeamento adotada, classifica os fluxos de acordo com o número de casos de câncer de próstata. O impacto da doença sobre o indivíduo e a necessidade de manter vínculos com os serviços de saúde podem obrigar o paciente a se mudar, mesmo que temporariamente para as macrorregiões, provocando rupturas de redes sociais de apoio.
Erratum for "Resisting Alternative Images"
Authors: Editorial Team Cultural Anthropology
Published: February 2025

Leaha, Mihai Andrei, and Roger Canals. 2024. “Resisting Alternative Images: An Ethnography of Visual Disinformation in Brazil.” Cultural Anthropology 39, no. 4: 533–563. https://doi.org/10.14506/ca39.4.03. 
The authors have identified the following error in the published article: 
On p. 534 and on p. 535 in the caption for Figure 3, the correct date of the invasion of the Brazilian Congress is January 8, 2023.
Development of nutrient medium composition for obtaining a protein-enzyme complex from rapeseed meal
Authors:   Ural Federal University First President of Russia  B.N. Yeltsin, Nechaeva Albina ,   Ural Bioengineering Company LLC, Kovaleva Elena ,   Ural Federal University First President of Russia  B.N. Yeltsin, Savinykh Dmitry ,   UralBioSintez LLC
Published: February 2025

Currently, the industrial cultivation is becoming unprofitable due to the use of expensive synthetic nutrients, so it is necessary to look for new components that meet market demands. The prices of hydrolysates of plant raw materials, such as soy flour, have increased almost tenfold in the last 5 years. The search for new sources of raw materials and technologi-cal solutions for the production of nutrient components is the main direction of development for biotechnologists. In the territory of the Russian Federation, rapeseed plantings from 2017 to 2022 grew more than twice: from 1 million hectares to 2.3 million hectares and there is an increase in the volume of crops sown for the year 2024. The processing of rapeseed cake and meal is a priority task facing the scientific community. By utilizing biotechnological solutions, production cycles do not generate waste, and the target products do not contain anti-nutritional substances (erucic acid, glucosinolates with degradation products). The purpose of this study is to develop a nutrient medium based on rapeseed cake hydrolysate for obtaining a protein-enzyme complex as a feed additive. This article discusses the optimization of the rapeseed cake fermentation process and the design of media for cultivating industrial producers of Bacillus subtilis. The samples of target products obtained after biotransformation showed high growth characteristics when using laboratory-scale media models.
The potential use of zinc oxide as an anti-mycotoxin element in animal feed: a short review
Authors:   South Ural State University, Chemek Marouane , Potoroko Valentina ,   LLC “Center for Expertise, Certification and Testing”
Published: February 2025

Providing the populace with high-quality animal products is one of the primary goals of contemporary agricultural science and practice. Mycotoxins impact animal health, per-formance, and product quality and safety through invasion of animal feed materials. Finding effective techniques to reduce mycotoxin in feedstuffs is therefore crucial. The use of generally recognized as safe (GRAS) elements such as zinc has drawn increased attention and seem to be one of the promising safe alternatives instead of synthetic fungicides. In the present short review, the occurrence of mycotoxins in animal feed, the potential use of zinc oxide (ZnO) particles as a feed supplement for farm animals, as well as its anti-fungal properties, were highlighted with the ultimate goal of elucidating the hypothesis of the potential use of ZnO as a mycotoxin-detoxifying element in animal feed.
What Do Science and Historical Denialists Deny – If Any – When Addressing Certainties in Wittgenstein’s Sense?
Authors: Ariso Jose Maria
Published: February 2025

In this article, I show that, when denialists attempt to deny a certainty in Wittgenstein’s sense, they do not even deny anything at all because they are articulating mere nonsense. To clarify this point, I start by providing a brief introduction to Wittgenstein’s conception of “certainty,” paying particular attention not only to the distinction between seeming and genuine doubt, but also to the nonsense generated when violating a certainty. Then, I analyze why we cannot even understand denialists when they try to deny certainties about the existence of the Holocaust and the sphericity of Earth. To this end, I consider the consequences of delegitimizing research procedures, regarding the case of doubt as the normal case, and formulating the denialist doubt through words whose use is incompatible with such doubt. Subsequently, I describe the main tactics used by denialists to try to substitute scientific certainties with alternative ones. Lastly, although denialism concerning certainties cannot even be refuted because it is nonsense, I propose to make deniers as well as the general public aware of such nonsense by asking questions that revolve around incongruences such as those I have previously noted concerning Holocaust denialism and the flat-Earth “theory.”
Analysis of Software Requirement Specification and Use Case Diagram of Metaverse Museum Muhammadiyah
Authors: Umar Rusydi , Robiin Bambang , Erviana Vera Yuli , Taruna Muhammad Iqbal , Kurniawan Afan
Published: February 2025

This article presents a detailed analysis of the Software Requirement Specification (SRS) and Use Case Diagram for the Metaverse Museum Muhammadiyah, a virtual museum platform designed to offer an immersive and interactive user experience. The study aims to assess the alignment between the functional requirements defined in the SRS and their representation in the Use Case Diagram, ensuring that all critical functionalities are accurately captured and adequately addressed in the system design. The analysis identifies key functional requirements such as user navigation, interaction, content management, and customization features, evaluating their presence and clarity within the Use Case Diagram. Additionally, the study examines the non-functional requirements, including availability, portability, response time, safety, security, and ergonomic design, highlighting their importance in delivering a reliable and user-friendly system. The findings reveal a strong correlation between the SRS and the Use Case Diagram, with most functionalities well-represented. However, the analysis also uncovers certain gaps such as the omission of features like link sharing which require further refinement in the diagram. The article concludes by emphasizing the need for continuous improvement in both the SRS and Use Case Diagram to ensure comprehensive coverage of user needs and to meet the high standards expected in a metaverse environment. This analysis serves as a critical step in guiding the successful development and implementation of the Metaverse Museum Muhammadiyah.
Szembe.szeg
Authors: Tóth Tamás Május
Published: February 2025

A kritikai pedagógia egyfajta gondolati cselszövés. Amit jobb szeretek proletár pedagógiának hívni, mert ez elsősorban egy proletár perspektívájú pedagógia. Főleg abban az értelemben, ahogy az operaismo (és a tágabb workerizmus) hagyományában is a kapitalizmus rejtélyének nyitja a proletár szemszög. Azaz osztályunk, a munkásság látószöge, (punto di vista operaio, hiszen a rejtély, a „titok” – a fennálló rejtegetnivalója, lényege s kulcsa egyben, mondja Tronti –, valójában nem más, mint a proletariátus), amely a tőkét mint totalitást az annak maghaladásáért folytatott történelmi harc gyakorlati nézőpontjából ragadja tökén (és ezzel közvetetten arra is célzok, hogy a workerizmus kritikai pedagógiai praxis avant la lettre). Olyan cselszövés, amely a tőkés nevelési viszony és annak intézménnyé (vagy diszpozitívummá) szerveződésének ellentmondásait nem megtagadni, feloldani, szintetizálni óhajtja, hanem – megint Tronti szavaival – megháborgatni és kiélezni, ami által – ahogy Freire is tanította – nevén nevezhető lesz a valóság, és így újra miénk lehet a szó. Ezt a cselszövést, ezt a srégen látást, ezt a rézsútos látószöget (ti., hogy a tisztánlátás lehetősége a „foltokon” keresztül nézvést lehetséges – mondja Žižek), szeretném bemutatni nagyon vázlatosan, de talán elég érzékletesen ahhoz, hogy bepillanthassunk a pedagógiát ma alkotó konfliktusok repedésein, melyeken keresztül a pedagógia mély, belső ellentmondásai sejlenek fel.
Semicircular canals input can modify the fast-phase nystagmus in off-vertical axis rotation of mice
Authors: Xiao Shijie , Zhao Tong , Liu Wenda , Peng Zihao , Chen Fangyi
Published: February 2025

Vestibular research is essential for understanding and treating disorders such as vertigo and Meniere’s disease. The vestibulo-ocular reflex (VOR) is a key method for assessing vestibular function and an essential tool for diagnosing vertigo. Traditionally, the VOR comprises angular VOR (aVOR) and translational VOR (tVOR), which originate from the vestibular semicircular canals (SCCs) and otolith organs, respectively. VOR consists of both fast-phase and slow-phase eye movements, which functionally interact to contribute to gaze control. However, to calculate the gain and phase parameters of the VOR, it is common practice to exclude fast-phase information superimposed on slow-phase eye movements. As a result, the information contained in the fast phase has not been fully utilized. OVAR is primarily used to evaluate otolith function, as there is no SCC input during its steady state. It is widely accepted that fast-phase nystagmus (FPN) during OVAR is generated by periodic otolith inputs via the central vestibular velocity storage mechanism (VSM). Surprisingly, we discovered in this study that SCC input can modify the generation of FPN in mouse OVAR test, as demonstrated by testingZpld1(Zona pellucida-like domain containing 1 protein) mutant mice with SCC deficits. This finding was further confirmed using both unilateral and bilateral semicircular canals dehiscence (SCD) surgical models. In addition to revealing the dependence of FPN on SCC input, we demonstrated that FPN can be used to evaluate vestibular function, particularly in conditions that are difficult to assess using slow-phase eye movements, such as unilateral vestibular lesions (UVL) and central modulation via Baclofen treatment.

Significance statementAlthough the SCC input is absent during the steady state of OVAR test, we discovered that SCC input can modify the generation of fast-phase nystagmus (FPN) in mice. This was demonstrated usingZpld1mutant mice with SCC deficits and further confirmed through semicircular canal dehiscence (SCD) models. Additionally, we found that FPN is valuable for assessing vestibular function in conditions such as unilateral vestibular lesions (UVL) and in cases of central modulation by Baclofen, making it a promising diagnostic tool for vestibular clinics.
Mitochondria as Indispensable Yet Replaceable Components of Germ Plasm: Insights into PGCs Specification in Sturgeons
Authors: Gao Linan , Franěk Roman , Tichopád Tomáš , Rodina Marek , Gela David , Šindelka Radek , Saito Taiju , Pšenička Martin
Published: February 2025

While it is widely recognized that mitochondria are components of germ plasm, their specific role in the formation and specification of primordial germ cells (PGCs) remains poorly understood. Furthermore, it has not been established whether mitochondria in germ plasm possess unique characteristics essential for their function. In this study, we demonstrate that mitochondria are indispensable for PGCs development in non-teleost fishes and that their role is not dependent on their origin from germ plasm. Using sturgeon embryos, we showed that UV radiation applied to the vegetal pole effectively eliminates germ plasm, including mitochondria, and prevents PGCs formation. Remarkably, we restored germ plasm function and PGCs development by injecting mitochondria derived from donor eggs, even when these mitochondria were not originally part of the germ plasm. Transplanted mitochondria were successfully identified in larval PGCs using a fluorescent PKH26 tracer, and in interspecies transplantation experiments, their presence was confirmed using species-specific mtDNA and mtRNA primers in larvae and individual PGCs. Our findings reveal that mitochondria are critical but not germ plasm-specific determinants of PGCs formation. This study provides novel insights into the developmental pathways of germ cells and establishes a previously unrecognized flexibility in mitochondrial functionality within the germline. These findings also offer a potential method for conserving matrilineal genetics in critically endangered species like sturgeons, while simultaneously opening new avenues for studying germlines with high interspecies mitochondrial heteroplasmy and contributing to broader evolutionary and conservation biology.
Mammalian heat shock protein A4 family ortholog Hsc70Cb is required for two phases of spermatogenesis in D. melanogaster
Authors: Houston Brendan J. , Nguyen Joseph , Burke Richard , Nogueira Alves Andre , Hime Gary R , O'Bryan Moira K.
Published: February 2025

Heat shock proteins play essential roles as molecular chaperones, enacting protein folding and preventing protein aggregation. In a previous study, a homozygous non-synonymous genetic variant that was predicted to be damaging was detected in an infertile man in the heat shock protein gene HSPA4L. Here, we used RNA interference in Drosophila melanogaster to explore the role of the heat shock protein A member 4 family (HSPA4) family in male fertility. Expression of the fly orthologue of the mammalian HSPA4 and HSPA4L genes, Hsc70Cb, was reduced in the male germline using two RNAi lines driven by Nanos-Gal4. Robust knockdown of Hsc70Cb in male germ cells resulted in male sterility, characterised by the absence of germ cells in testes and the over-proliferation of the testis soma. A less robust knockdown of Hsc70Cb in the male germline resulted in a sperm individualisation defect and a failure of sperm release into the seminal vesicle (analogous to the epididymis). When human HSPA4 or HSPA4L cDNA was introduced into infertile Hsc70Cb mutant flies, a partial rescue was observed, whereby in the robust Hsc70Cb knockdown setting germ cells progressed to the spermatocyte stage before undergoing cell death. The absence of sperm in the Hsc70Cb (line 1) is consistent with the clinical presentation of the infertile man harbouring a homozygous HSPA4L genetic variant, supporting the hypothesis that HSPA4L is required for male fertility in humans and flies. This study also highlights the utility of the fly as a model of human spermatogenesis.
Espondilodiscitis en lactantes <6 meses con hemocultivo negativo. Reporte de un caso y revisión bibliográfica
Authors: Cullari Matías Leonardo , Dal Lago Javier , De Giano Juan Ignacio , Aguirre Facundo , Aguer Santiago , Lloyd Ruy
Published: February 2025

En la espondilitis, la inoculación generalmente es hematógena hacia el cuerpo vertebral. Si la infección se propaga al espacio intervertebral, se denomina espondilodiscitis. Hoy en día, el número de infecciones piógenas ha aumentado. Uno de los principales problemas con la espondilodiscitis es el retraso en el diagnóstico debido a los síntomas no específicos, especialmente en niños <1 año. Los análisis de laboratorio tampoco ofrecen certeza en el diagnóstico, ya que, en muchos casos, los parámetros son normales o solo están ligeramente elevados. Presentamos el caso de una paciente de 4 meses con espondilodiscitis y cultivo negativo, controlada durante 18 meses, cuyo cuadro se resolvió, de manera conservadora, con antibióticos y un corsé toraco-lumbo-sacro.
Wybitni, zagubieni negocjatorzy. Przedstawiciele młodego pokolenia w obliczu zakłóceń e-świata
Authors: Wojtkowiak Monika
Published: February 2025

Artykuł podnosi problematykę związaną z młodymi użytkownikami internetu. Przedstawiciele pokolenia e-sieci to ludzie wyposażeni umiejętności sprawnego poruszania się w cyfrowej rzeczywistości, dla których środowisko internetu jest tak samo dostępne jak środowisko poza nią. Sprawnie nawigują, korzystają z dobrodziejstw dostępności informacji, komunikacji w internecie, ale także stawiają czoła trudnościom jakie niesie ze sobą rzeczywistość wirtualna. Wykorzystują przy tym umiejętności podobne do tych, które maja negocjatorzy-otwartości, komunikacji, manipulacji. Bywają jednak również zagubieni w internetowej rzeczywistości. Artykuł jest przyczynkiem do dyskusji o tym, jak młodzi adaptują się do realiów owego „nierealnego” świata i jak radzą sobie z tytułowym zagubieniem.
Integrative Omics reveals changes in the cellular landscape of peroxisome-deficient pex3 yeast cells
Authors: Kosir Tjasa , Das Hirak , Pilegaard Pedersen Marc , Richard Ann-Kathrin , Anteghini Marco , dos Santos Vitor Martins , Oeljeklaus Silke , van der Klei Ida J. , Warscheid Bettina
Published: February 2025

Peroxisomes are organelles that are crucial for cellular metabolism, but they also play important roles in non-metabolic processes such as signalling, stress response or antiviral defense. To uncover the consequences of peroxisome deficiency, we compared Saccharomyces cerevisiae wild-type with pex3 cells, which lack peroxisomes, employing quantitative proteomics and transcriptomics technologies. Cells were grown on acetate, a carbon source that requires peroxisomal enzymes of the glyoxylate cycle to generate energy and essential carbohydrates, and that does not repress the expression of peroxisomal genes. Our integrative omics analysis reveals that the absence of peroxisomes induces distinct responses at the level of the transcriptome and proteome. Transcripts of genes and corresponding proteins that are associated with peroxisomal β-oxidation were mostly increased in pex3 cells. In contrast, levels of peroxins were regulated at protein but not at transcript level. Membrane-bound peroxins were reduced, whereas the soluble receptors Pex5 and Pex7 were increased in abundance in pex3 cells. Interestingly, we found several non-peroxisomal transcript and proteins regulated in pex3 cells including mitochondrial proteins involved in respiration or import processes, which led to the identification of the mitochondrial pyruvate carrier Mpc1/3 as so far unnoticed transporter present in the peroxisomal membrane. Our results reveal the impact of the absence of peroxisomes in pex3 yeast cells and represent a rich resource of genes/proteins for follow-up studies to obtain a deeper understanding of peroxisome biology in a cellular context.
A new species of Darwinopterus (Wukongopteridae, Pterosauria) from western Liaoning provides some new information on the ontogeny of this clade
Authors: CHENG XIN , JIANG SHUNXING , BANTIM RENAN A.M. , SAYÃO JULIANA M. , SARAIVA ANTÔNIO Á.F. , MENG XI , KELLNER ALEXANDER W.A. , WANG XIAOLIN
Published: February 2025

Abstract The Wukongopteridae is an important pterosaur clade from the Yanliao Biota, combining features of basal and derived pterosaurs. So far, the Wukongopteridae consists of five species divided into three genera: Wukongopterus lii, Darwinopterus modularis, Darwinopterus linglongtaensis, Darwinopterus robustodens, and Kunpengopterus sinensis. Here we report a new species, Darwinopterus camposi sp. nov., based on an almost complete skeleton (IVPP V 17957). The new species is referred to Darwinopterus due to the presence of an elongated posterior region of the skull and the bony premaxillary crest that starts about the anterior margin of the nasoantorbital fenestra. It differs from all other wukongopterids by having the dorsal margin of the premaxillary crest straight, without an extensive dorsal projection and presenting a smooth lateral surface. Furthermore, D. camposi sp. nov. has eighteen and fourteen teeth on each side of the upper and lower jaws, respectively, and the fourth phalanx of the wing finger shorter than the first. IVPP V 17957 shows some fused postcranial bones, like the extensor tendon process to the first wing finger phalanx, but also has unfused premaxilla and frontal, which provides further information about wukongopterid ontogeny.