bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Coup’s Fruition
Authors: Tendi Blessing-Miles
Published: January 2025

This chapter is a counterpoint to game theory models of coup dynamics that discount ideas and beliefs as influential in the accomplishment of coups. It argues that Zimbabwe’s 2017 coup was a vote of no confidence in Robert Mugabe’s presidency by former 1970s liberation war veterans who held decisive army and air force command posts when the coup occurred. The enduring resonance of gendered ideas, as well as beliefs derived from traditional religion, in the military, which both have substantial roots in Zimbabwe’s liberation struggle, among independence war veterans in the army and air force helps explain why they broadly agreed to support the coup, and why the coup was not reversed by armed actors with liberation war experience in the military. Ideas and beliefs are significant determinants of coup success. The chapter employs ‘a feminist curiosity’, to expose the profoundly gendered character of ideas that helped ensure the coup’s success.
Finish what we Started
Authors: Tendi Blessing-Miles
Published: January 2025

This chapter maintains that Zimbabwean coup-makers’ diplomacy altered the responses of external actors to the 2017 coup. However, the chapter’s argument on this point emphasizes that the coup-makers’ alteration of the reactions of external actors was only partially successful. The responses of African leaders to Zimbabwe’s 2017 coup were individually complex and not uniform. At best, coup-makers’ diplomacy divided views on how the AU should respond to the Zimbabwean coup, and this went some way towards ensuring a disjointed and ineffectual response by the AU leadership. The chapter also argues that particular internal characteristics of the AU were fertile ground for Zimbabwean coup-makers’ diplomacy. These internal factors were not part of Zimbabwean generals’ calculations, underlining the importance of fortuna in coup success. Finally, the chapter argues that SADC did not necessarily support the coup. Instead, Zimbabwe’s 2017 coup exposed how SADC is ill equipped for responding timeously to complicated and rapidly unfolding political crises
Sources of THz Radiation
Authors: Doucas George
Published: January 2025

The THz part of the spectrum (0.03–3.0 mm) is a band that attracts a lot of interest because of its applications in many areas of science and technology, from astrophysics to security applications. These applications are reviewed briefly in the first part of this chapter, which then proceeds to discuss in somewhat greater detail the basic characteristics of the existing sources of THz radiation. These are characterized as thermal, gas lasers, semiconductor lasers, or free electron sources. Greater emphasis is placed on the description of free electron sources, which include Free Electron Lasers and synchrotron radiation sources, since a grating-based source would also be classified as a free electron one.
Impact of Daytime and Nighttime Blood Pressure and Nocturnal Blood Pressure Fall on Heart Failure Risk in Treated Hypertension
Authors: Coccina Francesca , Salles Gil F , Hermida Ramón C , Banegas José R , Bastos José M , Cardoso Claudia R L , Salles Guilherme C , Mojon Artemio , Fernandez José R , Sanchez-Martinez Mercedes , Costa Carlos , Carvalho Simão , Faia Joao , Pierdomenico Sante D
Published: January 2025

BACKGROUND

To evaluate the impact of daytime, nighttime and nocturnal blood pressure (BP) fall on heart failure (HF).

METHODS

We analyzed data of five cohorts including 15,526 treated hypertensive patients, experiencing 625 HF events, by study-level meta-analysis. The pooled hazard ratios (HR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for 1-SD increase in BP parameters or per group were calculated.

RESULTS

When individually analyzed after adjustment for covariates, clinic systolic BP (SBP) (HR 1.20, 95% CI 1.01-1.43), daytime SBP (HR 1.34, 95% CI 1.06-1.70), nighttime SBP (HR 1.43, 95% CI 1.20-1.71), nighttime diastolic BP (DBP) (HR 1.26, 95% CI 1.05-1.52), % of nocturnal SBP fall (HR 0.81, 95% CI 0.75-0.88) and nondipping (HR 1.64, 95% CI 1.54-1.98) were associated with HF. If daytime or nighttime BPs were further adjusted for clinic BP results remained similar. When clinic, daytime and nighttime BPs were mutually adjusted, nighttime SBP (HR 1.43, 95% CI 1.27-1.61) and nighttime DBP (HR 1.37, 95% CI 1.14-1.64) remained associated with outcome. Heterogeneity across cohorts was explained by BP, sex and follow-up duration. In sensitivity analyses, for daytime and nighttime BP, no study had relevant influential effect on overall estimates. Looking for publication bias and adjusting for missing studies by Duval and Tweedie’s method, clinic SBP lost significance but daytime SBP, and nighttime SBP and DBP remained significantly associated with HF.

CONCLUSIONS

daytime and nighttime BPs are stronger than clinic BP in predicting HF, nighttime BP is stronger than daytime BP and a reduced nocturnal BP fall is associated with outcome.
Jurisdiction and admissibility in international commercial arbitration: back to basics
Authors: Leung Thomas , To Christopher K H
Published: January 2025

In the recent case of CBI Constructors Pty Ltd v Chevron Australia Pty Ltd [2024] HCA 28, the High Court of Australia, by a majority of five to two, did not follow the approach of the English, Singapore, and Hong Kong courts in adopting the jurisdiction/admissibility distinction in determining the court’s scope of curial intervention under the UNCITRAL Model Law on International Commercial Arbitration. Instead, the majority looked at the issue simply as a matter of the parties’ consent to arbitrate. This note examines the differences between the majority and the minority, argues that the majority’s consent-based analysis cannot be faulted and concludes by exploring how such an understanding can be tied back to the provisions of the UNCITRAL Model Law.
Which plasma pTau217 assay should I use in clinical practice? Pandora’s box demystified
Authors: Toniolo Sofia
Published: January 2025

This scientific commentary refers to ‘A comprehensive head-to-head comparison of key plasma phosphorylated tau 217 biomarker tests’ by Warmenhoven et al. (https://doi.org/10.1093/brain/awae346) and ‘Plasma p-tau217 in Alzheimer’s disease: Lumipulse and ALZpath SIMOA head-to-head comparison’ by Pilotto et al. (https://doi.org/10.1093/brain/awae368).
Genomic characterization of Huntington’s disease genetic modifiers informs drug target tractability
Authors: Namuli Kevin Lucy , Slike Alana N , Hollebeke Mason A , Wright Galen E B
Published: January 2025

Huntington’s disease is caused by a CAG repeat in the HTT gene. Repeat length correlates inversely with the age of onset but only explains part of the observed clinical variability. Genome-wide association studies highlight DNA repair genes in modifying disease onset, but further research is required to identify causal genes and evaluate their tractability as drug targets. To address these gaps and learn important preclinical information, we analysed genome-wide association study data from a large Huntington’s disease age-of-onset study (n = 9064), prioritizing robust candidate Huntington’s disease modifier genes using bioinformatic approaches and analysing related information for these genes from large-scale human genetic repositories. We supplemented this information with other Huntington’s disease–related screens, including exome studies of Huntington’s disease onset and high-throughput assessments of mHTT toxicity. To confirm whether Huntington’s disease modifiers are shared across repeat expansion disorders, we also analysed age-of-onset genome-wide association study data from X-linked dystonia-parkinsonism caused by a (CCCTCT)n expansion. We also studied modifier-related associations with rare diseases to inform potential off-target therapeutic effects and conducted comprehensive phenome-wide studies to identify other traits linked to these genes. Finally, we evaluated the aggregated human genetic evidence and theoretical druggability of the prioritized Huntington’s disease modifier genes, including characteristics recently associated with clinical trial stoppage due to safety concerns (i.e. human genetic constraint, number of interacting partners and RNA tissue expression specificity). In total, we annotated and assessed nine robust candidate Huntington’s disease modifier genes. Notably, we detected a high correlation (R2 = 0.78) in top age-of-onset genome-wide association study hits across repeat expansion disorders, emphasizing cross-disorder relevance. Clinical genetic repositories analysis showed DNA repair genes, such as MLH1, PMS2 and MSH3, are associated with cancer phenotypes, suggesting potential limitations as drug targets. LIG1 and RRM2B were both associated with neurofibrillary tangles, which may provide a link to a potential role in mHTT aggregates, while MSH3 was associated with several cortical morphology-related traits relevant to Huntington’s disease. Finally, human genetic evidence and theoretical druggability analyses prioritized and ranked modifier genes, with PMS1 exhibiting the most favourable profile. Notably, HTT itself ranked poorly as a theoretical drug target, emphasizing the importance of exploring modifier-based alternative targets. In conclusion, our study highlights the importance of human genomic information to prioritize Huntington’s disease modifier genes as drug targets, providing a basis for future therapeutic development in Huntington’s disease and other repeat expansion disorders.
Cross-sectional and longitudinal associations of smoking behaviour with central arterial haemodynamic measures: the Framingham Heart Study
Authors: Cooper Leroy L , Majid Sana , Wang Na , Fetterman Jessica L , Palmisano Joseph N , Benjamin Emelia J , Vasan Ramachandran S , Mitchell Gary F , Hamburg Naomi M
Published: January 2025

Aims

To assess the cross-sectional and longitudinal associations of smoking behaviour with central arterial haemodynamic measures in samples of the Framingham Heart Study.

Methods and results

In 6597 participants [3606 (55%) women, 51.5% never smoked, 34.8% formerly quit, 4.3% recently quit, and 9.3% currently smoking], we assessed relations of smoking behaviour with central arterial measures using multivariable linear regression models. In cross-sectional models, central arterial measures were different across smoking behaviour groups. Particularly, augmentation index (AI) was higher among participants who formerly quit smoking (least squares mean ± standard error = 14.1 ± 0.4%; P < 0.001) and were currently smoking (18.1 ± 0.5%; P < 0.001) compared with participants who never smoked (12.6 ± 0.3%). Among participants currently smoking, higher cigarettes per day [B = 1.41; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.47–2.34] were associated with higher AI. Among participants who had quit smoking, higher pack-years were associated with higher AI (B = 0.85; 95% CI, 0.60–1.14) and central pulse pressure (B = 0.84; 95% CI, 0.46–1.21). Using restricted cubic splines, we observed a negative linear association for AI, but non-linear associations for characteristic impedance and central pulse pressure, with higher time since quit (all P < 0.001). Additionally, we observed non-linear patterns of central arterial measures with smoking cessation by smoking burden (<20 vs. ≥20 pack-years). In longitudinal models, we observed higher increases in AI among participants who persistently quit (4.62 ± 0.41%; P < 0.001) and persistently smoked (5.48 ± 0.70%; P = 0.002) compared with participants who never smoked (3.45 ± 0.37%).

Conclusion

Central arterial measures are sensitive to differences and changes in smoking behaviour. Longer cessation may revert central arterial measures to levels observed with lower smoking exposure.
Assessing the diversity of zoonotic bacterial agents in rodents and small mammals in Iran
Authors: Rezaie Niloofar , Latifian Mina , Ghasemi Ahmad , Mahmoudi Ahmad , Baseri Neda , Omidi Amir Hossein , Esmaeili Parisa , Esmaeili Saber , Mostafavi Ehsan
Published: January 2025

The purpose of this study was to assess the prevalence of zoonotic bacteria, including Coxiella burnetii, Bartonella spp., Rickettsia spp., Brucella spp., Borrelia spp., and Ehrlichia spp., among small mammalian in Iran. We examined 618 small mammals collected between 2016 and 2020 from different parts of Iran. We extracted DNA from spleen samples and used quantitative real-time PCR to identify specific genes. We found 559 (90.45%) samples infected with at least one of the analyzed pathogens. Among the studied specimens, 86.08% tested positive for Bartonella spp., 2.42% for Ehrlichia spp., 0.80% for Borrelia spp., 0.64% for C. burnetii, 0.48% for Brucella spp., and 0% for Rickettsia spp. Bartonella krasnovii (25.81%) and Bartonella taylorii (25.81%) were the most prevalent among the Bartonella species. This study identified a rodent infected with Brucella abortus. Among the Borrelia-positive samples, four out of five were identified as Borrelia duttonii. Among the positive cases in the Ehrlichia genus, Ehrlichia canis, Candidatus Ehrlichia shimanensis, and Neoehrlichia mikurensis were identified. Meriones persicus was the most prevalent captured rodent with 315 specimens (51.22%). Our study revealed that a large proportion of the small mammals analyzed were infected with one or more of the targeted pathogens. M. persicus exhibited significant infection rates with C. burnetii, Bartonella spp., Ehrlichia spp., Brucella spp., and Borrelia spp. This suggests that this rodent species could serve as a crucial reservoir for zoonotic pathogens in Iran.
Epidemiological analysis and potential factors affecting the 2022–23 Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever outbreak in Iraq
Authors: Kodama Chiori , Alhilfi Riyadh Abdulameer , Aakef Ihab , Khamasi Adnan , Mahdi Sinan , Hasan Hameeda Mohammed , Khaleel Raghad Ibrahim , Naji Mazin Mahdi , Esmaeel Noor Khalid , Haji-Jama Sundus , Legand Anais , Keiser Olivia , Eckerle Isabella , Formenty Pierre B H
Published: January 2025

Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever (CCHF) is an acute tick-borne disease with a case fatality rate of up to 40% in humans, posing a significant health threat. This study investigates the 2022–23 CCHF outbreaks in Iraq, the highest recorded to date, and analyzes potential factors at the human–animal–environmental interface. Data from the Iraqi government, the World Health Organization, and the World Bank were used to analyze CCHF trends and affecting factors. This included epidemiological reports, clinical data, tick infestation and seroprevalence studies, and climate data. Descriptive and statistical analyses examined case trends, geographic and demographic characteristics, clinical manifestations, risk factors, seasonal patterns, and influencing factors. A sudden rise in CCHF cases began in southern Iraq in April 2022 and expanded across all governorates, with a shift toward urban areas. Higher incidence was observed among males, aged 25–44, and those involved in slaughtering. The most common clinical manifestation was fever (97%), followed by hemorrhagic symptoms (54%). Bleeding from the gums or mouth and subcutaneous bleeding were more frequent in patients with fatal outcomes. Seasonal patterns showed peaks during spring and fall, correlating with tick activity and potentially exacerbated by climate change. Tick infestation and seroprevalence studies indicated a high prevalence of Hyalomma ticks and CCHF seropositivity among domestic animals in southern Iraq (60%), consistent with the distribution of CCHF human cases. Iraq’s ongoing CCHF outbreak demands multidisciplinary One Health strategies. The Iraqi government has adopted such a control strategy, contributing to regional and global efforts to enhance pandemic preparedness.
Achievement of one health multi-sectoral collaboration in containment of Rift Valley Fever outbreak, Sudan, Red Sea State 2019
Authors: Hussein Hanadi E , Hassanain Sara , Okwarah Patrick , Mohamedahmed Hanan , Elbadri Omer , Alzaki Zaafran , Hashim Mohamed , Magboul Babiker
Published: January 2025

Rift Valley Fever is endemic in Sudan, with a notable outbreak declared in 2019, affecting multiple states. In this study, we examine the Red Sea State, Sudan’s experience in applying the One Health approach, to contain Red-Sea RVF outbreak. A retrospective analysis of national and sub-national data and a review of literature were conducted to assess the application of One Health response and to derive lessons learned. The analysis revealed a total of 576 human cases and two deaths, with a case fatality rate of 0.35%, from 25 September 2019 to 25 January 2020. Most cases (99%) were from the Red Sea and River Nile States, and only six sporadic cases were from other five states. The Red Sea State reported 322 human and 74 animal cases, including 74 abortions and 12 animal deaths. Triggers and risk factors include floods, uncontrolled movement of animal, close contact with animals, poor disposal, and unsafe burial practices for animals. One Health approach was utilized all through the defeat of outbreak. A multi-sectoral response plan was implemented, leading to the declaration of the end of the outbreak in 2020 which was reviewed and lessons were derived. One Health approach provided a coordinated action between health, veterinary, and environmental authorities at national and subnational levels. Synergistic efforts have minimized risk of RVF spreading among human and animal. The experience was leveraged to strengthen response approaches for zoonotic diseases. Structural and capacity gaps and financial constraints were identified as implementation challenges.
The Association of Regular Dog Walking with Mobility, Falls and Fear of Falling in Later Life
Authors: Gallagher Eleanor , Lavan Amanda , Kenny Rose Anne , Briggs Robert
Published: January 2025

Background

It has been suggested that dog walking may protect against falls and mobility problems in later life, but little work to date has examined this.

The aim of this study was to assess if regular dog walking was associated with reduced likelihood of falls, fear of falling and mobility problems in a large cohort of community-dwelling older people.

Methods

Participants ≥60 years at Wave 5 of The Irish Longitudinal Study on Ageing were included. Regular dog walking was ≥4 days/week by self-report.

The control group consisted of participants who did not own a dog or who did not regularly walk their dog.

Falls and fear of falling were by self-report. Mobility was measured with Timed-Up-and-Go (TUG).

Logistic Regression models assessed associations between regular dog walking and outcomes of interest.

Results

Regular dog walkers (629/4,161, 15%) had a significantly faster TUG (10.3 (10.1-10.5) vs 11.7 (11.1-12.2) seconds, t=2.11, p=0.0343) and lower likelihood of unexplained falls (OR 0.60 (0.38–0.96; p=0.034), fear of falling (OR 0.79 (95% CI 0.64–0.98); p=0.032) and mobility problems (0.64 (0.45–0.91); p=0.015) in fully-adjusted models.

Regular dog walking was also associated with a significantly lower likelihood of fear of falling (OR 0.79 (95% CI 0.64–0.98); p = 0.032).

Discussion

This study demonstrates a significantly lower prevalence of mobility impairment, falls and fear of falling amongst community-dwelling older people who regularly walk their dog.

While longitudinal and dedicated studies are required, older people should be encouraged to continue regular dog walking where feasible, as it may help in maintaining mobility and reducing falls.
The refined slip rates of the Haiyuan fault system from GNSS and levelling data
Authors: Peng Shengxiang , Ding Kaihua , Li Tianao , He Ping , Xu Wei , Zhang Yongying
Published: January 2025

Constrained by the horizontal velocity field of ∼248 GNSS stations and vertical velocity field of ∼432 levelling sites in the northeastern margin of the Qinghai–Tibet, we utilized an improved screw dislocation model with dip angle considered to invert the slip rate, locking depth and dip angle of each segment of the Haiyuan fault system. Comparative analysis of the inverted results shows that the improved screw dislocation model with dip angle considered has superior data fitting to the classical screw dislocation model, especially for faults with low dip angles. From west to east, strike-slip rates increase from 4.4 mm a−1 on the Lenglongling fault to 6.3 mm a−1 on the Maomaoshan–Laohushan fault and then decrease to 3.0 mm a−1 on the eastern segment of the Haiyuan fault, with dip angles varying between 50$^\circ $ and 65$^\circ $. The Maomaoshan–Laohushan segment exhibits the maximum locking depth of 22.5 km and the highest seismic moment, corresponding to an equivalent moment magnitude of up to 7.1 in the next 100 yr. The locking degree and slip rate deficit are generally decreasing from west to east on the Haiyuan fault system. The Lenglongling and Jinqianghe segments exhibit the highest locking degrees with depths of ∼15 km and slip rate deficits of ∼6 mm a−1. In contrast, the Haiyuan segment in the east has a low locking degree with a shallow depth of less than 8 km and a slip rate deficit of 2–4 mm a−1. The high locking degree and strain accumulation suggest a high seismic hazard on the Maomaoshan–Laohushan, Lenglongling and Jinjianghe faults, where should be paid more attention.
Characterization of colour, phenolics, and volatile compounds of 6 pomegranate varieties grown in Yunnan
Authors: Peng Yijin , Yun Yurou , Zou Wenhui , Zhou Linyan
Published: January 2025

Our study analysed the quality differences between 6 pomegranate varieties grown in Yunnan. The results showed that the composition and contents of anthocyanins, the amount of polymeric pigments produced by the reaction between anthocyanins and tannins, and pH were the primary factors affecting the colour of pomegranate arils. Fructose and citric acid were the main sugar and organic acid contributing to the taste of pomegranate arils. In total, 42 phenolic compounds were identified, with BS being classified as a distinct group due to higher concentrations of ACNs and flavonols. Additionally, 32 volatile compounds were identified, with TLZ, SP, and TGY grouped, BS, TNS, and HRY grouped into another. The key phenolic metabolic pathways included flavone and flavonol biosynthesis, anthocyanin biosynthesis, and phenylpropanoid biosynthesis, while fatty acid biosynthesis, pyruvate metabolism, and sulfur metabolism were the main volatile metabolic pathways. These results provide valuable guidance for agricultural practices and promoting industrial development.
Shining light on seaweed—the utilization of vibrational spectroscopy and machine learning in the seaweed industry
Authors: Power A , Chapman J , Hoffman L , Cozzolino D
Published: January 2025

Seaweed and macroalgae have been utilized for centuries in human and animal nutrition due to their rich composition and functional properties. As global demand for sustainable food sources grows, the seaweed industry requires effective quality control systems to ensure product safety and consistency. Vibrational spectroscopy, including near-infrared (NIR), mid-infrared (MIR), and Raman spectroscopy, offers powerful techniques for analysing the molecular composition of seaweed. These methods enable the identification and characterization of key molecular structures, essential for ensuring the quality of seaweed-based products. The integration of machine learning (ML) and chemometric techniques enhances the analytical capabilities of vibrational spectroscopy, providing robust tools for data interpretation and decision-making in seaweed safety and sustainability. This review highlights recent advancements in the application of vibrational spectroscopy, machine learning, and sustainable practices within the seaweed industry, emphasizing their role in improving product quality, traceability, safety, and resource efficiency. Furthermore, the ability of IR spectroscopy to predict seaweed chemical composition and biomass production under different abiotic conditions is discussed. Developing and implementing vibrational spectroscopy tools will enable agile methods that will support management and risk evaluation systems, providing with objective measurements to identify hazards during seaweed post-harvest and processing.
Affine Root Systems, Stable Tubes, and a Conjecture by Geiss–Leclerc–Schröer
Authors: Lin Zengqiang , Su Xiuping
Published: January 2025

Associated to a symmetrizable Cartan matrix $C$, Geiss–Leclerc–Schröer constructed and studied a class of Iwanaga–Gorenstein algebras $H$. They proved a generalized version of Gabriel’s Theorem, that is, the rank vectors of $\tau $-locally free $H$-modules are the positive roots of type $C$ when $C$ is of finite type, and conjectured that this is true for any $C$. In this paper, we investigate this conjecture specifically for the case when $C$ is of affine type. We explicitly construct stable tubes, some of which are inhomogeneous tubes with non-rigid mouth modules. This characteristic is not presented in the representation theory of quivers (with no relations). We deduce that any positive root of type $C$ is the rank vector of some $\tau $-locally free $H$-module. However, the converse is not generally true. Our construction shows that there are $\tau $-locally free $H$-modules whose rank vectors are not roots, when $C$ is of type $\operatorname{\widetilde{\mathbb{B}}}_{n}$, $\operatorname{\widetilde{\mathbb{C}\mathbb{D}}}_{n}$, $\operatorname{\widetilde{\mathbb{F}}}_{41}$ and $\operatorname{\widetilde{\mathbb{G}}}_{21}$, and so the conjecture fails for these four types.
Postsecular Philosophy as Metaphoric Theology: On Dussel’s Reading of Marx
Authors: Vizcaíno Rafael
Published: January 2025

This article articulates the ways in which the Argentine-Mexican philosopher and theologian Enrique Dussel advances a distinctly postsecularist and decolonial reinterpretation of the Marxist critique of religion. Specifically, this article explores Dussel’s Las metáforas teológicas de Marx [The Theological Metaphors of Marx], a text that exposes how Marx often deploys the Bible against the Christian in a way that presumes the original criticality of an “un-inverted” or “unfetishized” Christianity. Such an interpretative maneuver promises to add a new layer of complexity to the well-known Marxist critique of theology as a critique of politics. At stake in such an interpretation is the rejection of facile readings of Marx’s presumed secularism and the reconceptualization of the relation between theology and philosophy in the context of epistemic decolonization.
Unveiling geographical patterns of hierarchy in the Greek labor market network: toward a multilayer “status-polus” model
Authors: Tsiotas Dimitrios , Kallioras Dimitris
Published: January 2025

This article develops a comprehensive framework for understanding labor markets’ spatial configuration and development dynamics, across multiple spatial scales. It applies to the Greek Labor Market Network and delineates five geographical zones of topological similarity, proposing a “status-polus” model capturing the coexistence between spatial development patterns, structural units, administrative scale, intermodality, and their underlying economic geography theories, by distance. The analysis reveals hierarchical structural variations, a transformation from continuous to point spatial patterns; a reduction and escalation of structural units; a U-shaped rule describing the hubs participation; and the challenges faced by insular regions to integrate this labor market.
From enthusiasm to apathy: dwindling support for globalization among future generations
Authors: Nooruddin Irfan , Rudra Nita
Published: January 2025

This essay examines support for globalization in developing countries, challenging the prevailing intellectual and policy consensus that globalization predominantly benefits less developed countries (LDCs). While globalization has been linked to economic growth and poverty reduction, rising inequality and discontent in both developing and developed countries raise critical questions about its long-term sustainability. In developed nations, populist leaders channel discontent with job precarity and wage pressures to criticize globalization, often portraying developing countries as the beneficiaries of global markets at the expense of blue-collar workers in richer nations. Conversely, in LDCs, scepticism about globalization is growing, particularly as income disparities widen and employment insecurity rises. We report three key findings: citizens in developing countries become more disillusioned with globalization over time, especially low-skilled workers and younger generations. This disenchantment mirrors the backlash seen in wealthy nations, suggesting that without substantial reforms to global trade systems, support for openness may erode across both developing and developed countries. A collapse of the international economic order, with negative global consequences, including supply chain disruptions and slower economic growth, is a potential outcome. The essay highlights the need for a reassessment of globalization’s role in developing economies to prevent further political and economic instability.
Distinct and redundant roles of the Arabidopsis OCTOPUS gene family in plant growth beyond phloem development
Authors: Crivelli Simona , Bartusch Kai , Ruiz-Sola M Aguila , Coiro Mario , Schmidt Kjølner Hansen Signe , Truernit Elisabeth
Published: January 2025

The Arabidopsis root apical meristem is an excellent model for studying plant organ growth that involves a coordinated process of cell division, elongation, and differentiation, while each tissue type develops on its own schedule. Among these tissues, the protophloem is particularly important, differentiating early to supply nutrients and signalling molecules to the growing root tip. The OCTOPUS (OPS) protein and its homolog OPS-LIKE 2 (OPL2) are essential for proper root protophloem differentiation and, likely through this role, indirectly promote root growth. Here, we explored the roles of the other three OPS homologs in Arabidopsis, OPL1, OPL3, and OPL4. OPS/OPL genes exhibit overlapping expression patterns and functions, with a high degree of redundancy among them. Although higher-order mutants do not display more severe phloem defects, they exhibit significantly reduced root growth compared to the ops opl2 mutant. These results suggest a direct contribution of the investigated OPL genes to meristematic activity. While our focus was on root growth, the OPS/OPL gene family also plays a positive role in regulating shoot growth, emphasizing its broader impact on plant development. Furthermore, our analyses reiterate the central role of OPS and the phloem domain in controlling overall plant growth.
Deciphering repair pathways of clustered DNA damage in human TK6 cells: insights from atomic force microscopy direct visualization
Authors: Nakano Toshiaki , Akamatsu Ken , Kohzaki Masaoki , Tsuda Masataka , Hirayama Ryoichi , Sassa Akira , Yasui Manabu , Shoulkamy Mahmoud I , Hiromoto Takeshi , Tamada Taro , Ide Hiroshi , Shikazono Naoya
Published: January 2025

Ionizing radiation induces various types of DNA damage, and the reparability and lethal effects of DNA damage differ depending on its spatial density. Elucidating the structure of radiation-induced clustered DNA damage and its repair processes will enhance our understanding of the lethal impact of ionizing radiation and advance progress toward precise therapeutics. Previously, we developed a method to directly visualize DNA damage using atomic force microscopy (AFM) and classified clustered DNA damage into simple base damage clusters (BDCs), complex BDCs and complex double-strand breaks (DSBs). This study investigated the repair of each type of damage in DNA-repair-deficient human TK6 cells and elucidated the association between each type of clustered DNA damage and the pathway responsible for its repair postirradiation with low linear energy transfer (LET) radiation (X-rays) and high-LET radiation (Fe-ion beams) in cells. We found that base excision repair and, surprisingly, nucleotide excision repair restored simple and complex BDCs. In addition, the number of complex DSBs in wild-type cells increases 1 h postirradiation, which was most likely caused by BDC cleavage initiated with DNA glycosylases. Furthermore, complex DSBs, which are likely associated with lethality, are repaired by homologous recombination with little contribution from nonhomologous-end joining.
Negative DNA supercoiling enhances DARS2 binding of DNA-bending protein IHF in the activation of Fis-dependent ATP-DnaA production
Authors: Kasho Kazutoshi , Miyoshi Kenya , Yoshida Mizuki , Sakai Ryuji , Nakagawa Sho , Katayama Tsutomu
Published: January 2025

Oscillation of the active form of the initiator protein DnaA (ATP-DnaA) allows for the timely regulation for chromosome replication. After initiation, DnaA-bound ATP is hydrolyzed, producing inactive ADP-DnaA. For the next round of initiation, ADP-DnaA interacts with the chromosomal locus DARS2 bearing binding sites for DnaA, a DNA-bending protein IHF, and a transcription activator Fis. The IHF binding site is about equidistant between the DnaA and Fis binding sites within DARS2. The DARS2-IHF-Fis complex promotes ADP dissociation from DnaA and furnishes ATP-DnaA at the pre-initiation stage, which dissociates Fis in a negative-feedback manner. However, regulation for IHF binding as well as mechanistic roles of Fis and specific DNA structure at DARS2 remain largely unknown. We have discovered that negative DNA supercoiling of DARS2 is required for stimulating IHF binding and ADP dissociation from DnaA in vitro. Consistent with these, novobiocin, a DNA gyrase inhibitor, inhibits DARS2 function in vivo. Fis Gln68, an RNA polymerase-interaction site, is suggested to be required for interaction with DnaA and full DARS2 activation. Based on these and other results, we propose that DNA supercoiling activates DARS2 function by stimulating stable IHF binding and DNA loop formation, thereby directing specific Fis–DnaA interaction.
Synthetic rational design of live-attenuated Zika viruses based on a computational model
Authors: Roopin Modi , Zafrir Zohar , Siridechadilok Bunpote , Suphatrakul Amporn , Julander Justin , Tuller Tamir
Published: January 2025

Many viruses of the Flaviviridae family, including the Zika virus (ZIKV), are human pathogens of significant public health concerns. Despite extensive research, there are currently no approved vaccines available for ZIKV and specifically no live-attenuated Zika vaccine. In this current study, we suggest a novel computational algorithm for generating live-attenuated vaccines via the introduction of silent mutation into regions that undergo selection for strong or weak local RNA folding or into regions that exhibit medium levels of sequence conservation. By implementing our approach to the ZIKV genome, we demonstrated strong correlation between the degree of conserved RNA local energy disruption and replicative ability of the viruses in Vero cells. In vivo analysis in the AG129 mouse model demonstrated the ability of the attenuated ZIKV strains to stimulate protective immune response against the wild-type virus. In some cases, up to 80% of the AG129 mice survived both the vaccination and the challenge with the wild-type strains, while 0% of the nonvaccinated mice survived the challenge. Our study provides a blueprint for a computational design of live-attenuated vaccine strains that still preserve immunogenic epitopes of the original RNA viruses. We believe that the approach is generic and can be used successfully for additional viruses.
The multi-organ landscape of B cells highlights dysregulated memory B cell responses in Crohn's disease
Authors: Chen Dianyu , Xu Song , Li Shuyan , Wang Qiuying , Li Hui , He Danyang , Chen Yan , Xu Heping
Published: January 2025

Crohn's disease (CD) is a prevalent type of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) with dysregulated antibody responses. However, there is a lack of comprehensive analysis of B cell responses in CD. Here, we collected B cells from the small intestine, colon and blood of CD patients and control subjects. Through the coupled analysis of transcriptome and immunoglobulin (Ig) gene in individual cells, we characterized the cellular composition, transcriptome and Ig clonotype in different B cell subtypes. We observed shared disruptions in plasma cell (PC) responses between different IBD subtypes. We revealed heterogeneity in memory B cells (MBCs) and showed a positive correlation between gut resident-like MBCs and disease severity. Furthermore, our clonotype analysis demonstrated an increased direct differentiation of MBCs into PCs in CD patients. Overall, this study demonstrates significantly altered B cell responses associated with chronic inflammation during CD and highlights the potential role of mucosal MBCs in CD pathogenesis.
Regulating the cobalt phthalocyanine molecules by introducing adjacent cubic molybdenum carbide nanoparticles for accelerated proton transfer towards efficient CO2 reduction reaction
Authors: Lin Yunxiang , Wang Shaocong , Liu Hengjie , Liu Xue , Yang Li , Su Xiaozhi , Shan Lei , Li Xiyu , Song Li
Published: January 2025

Electrochemical CO2 reduction reaction (CO2RR) is an important application that can considerably mitigate environmental and energy crises. However, the slow proton-coupled electron transfer process continues to limit overall catalytic performance. Fine-tuning the reaction microenvironment by accurately constructing the local structure of catalysts provides a novel approach to enhancing reaction kinetics. Here, cubic-phase α-MoC1−x nanoparticles were incorporated into a carbon matrix and coupled with cobalt phthalocyanine molecules (α-MoC1−x–CoPc@C) for the co-reduction of CO2 and H2O, achieving an impressive Faradaic efficiency for CO close to 100%. Through a combination of in-situ spectroscopies, electrochemical measurements, and theoretical simulations, it is demonstrated that α-MoC1−x nanoparticles and CoPc molecules with the optimized local configuration serve as the active centers for H2O activation and CO2 reduction, respectively. The interfacial water molecules were rearranged, forming a dense hydrogen bond network on the catalyst surface. This optimized microenvironment at the electrode–electrolyte interface synergistically enhanced water dissociation, accelerated proton transfer, and improved the overall performance of CO2RR.
Protein phosphatase PP2C2 dephosphorylates transcription factor ZAT5 and modulates tomato fruit ripening
Authors: Li Yafei , Chang Yanan , Wang Yiran , Gan Chaolin , Li Chonghua , Zhang Xuejun , Guo Yang-Dong , Zhang Na
Published: January 2025

Although C2H2 zinc finger transcription factors are important in plant growth, development, and stress resistance, their specific roles in fruit ripening have been less explored. Here, we demonstrate that the C2H2 zinc finger transcription factor 5 (SlZAT5) regulates fruit ripening in tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.). Overexpression of SlZAT5 delayed ripening, while its knockout accelerated it, confirming its role as a negative regulator. SlZAT5 functions as a transcriptional repressor by directly inhibiting ripening-related genes, including SlACS4, SlPL8, and SlGRAS38, thereby delaying ripening. Furthermore, SlZAT5 interacts with the type 2C protein phosphatase SlPP2C2, which regulates the repressor activity of SlZAT5 by dephosphorylating SlZAT5 at Ser-65. This interaction is crucial in modulating ethylene production, thereby influencing the ripening process. These findings reveal a regulatory function of SlZAT5 in tomato fruit development, offering insights into the SlZAT5-SlPP2C2 module and potential targets for genetic modification to improve fruit quality and extend fruit shelf life.
Internal Structure of Decaying Solitary Waves: Comparison of Analytic and Numerical Results
Authors: Grundy Dane , Hammerton P W
Published: January 2025

The evolution of solitary waves governed by perturbations of the Korteweg-de Vries (KdV) equation is considered, focussing in particular on the Burgers-Korteweg-de Vries (BKdV) equation. Using matched asymptotic expansions the structure of the wave is determined for all timescales. A tail appears behind the main waveform, the structure of which is determined in the form of a convolution integral. Numerical results are presented using a pseudospectral scheme but modified so that linear terms are incorporated into an integrating factor. All details of the asymptotic structure of the waveform are validated by numerical results. Comparisons are made with earlier asymptotic analyses of decaying solitary waves.
A review of reviews of patient-reported measures in psychosis: Need to consider factors affecting equity and the involvement of patients
Authors: Nair Neha , Abou-Farhat Maria , Kaur Navdeep , Jones Nev , Mohan Greeshma , Boruff Jill , Iyer Srividya N
Published: January 2025

Background

Patient-reported measures are increasingly valued in psychosis care and research. For patient-reported measures to reflect patient perspectives, patients must be involved in developing them. Further, their development and evaluation must consider sociodemographic characteristics influencing patient experiences and outcomes and measurement. As reviews reflect the state of the field and guide clinicians/researchers in selecting measures, our aim was to evaluate literature reviews of patient-reported measures on their consideration of factors affecting equity and patient involvement.

Study design

For this review of reviews, we searched three databases (MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO) for reviews on patient-reported measures in psychosis. Two reviewers independently screened titles, abstracts, and full-texts, and descriptively synthesized and appraised the quality of included reviews. Using Cochrane’s PROGRESS-plus and a Canadian equity framework, reviews were evaluated on their consideration of sociodemographic characteristics, accessibility and patient involvement.

Study results

Of 10 reviews (six systematic, four non-systematic; 1,111 studies; 313 measures), six limited their search to English. Barring two reviews that reported the age, gender, and countries of samples in included studies, the reviews did not extract/comment on population/socio-demographic characteristics. One commented on one measure’s readability; none commented on samples’ literacy levels. Four reviews considered the availability of translations; only one evaluated cross-cultural validity. Only two considered costs of measures. Only one evaluated patient involvement in developing patient-reported measures. One referenced equity frameworks/standards.

Conclusions

Reviews of patient-reported measures in psychosis demonstrate minimal attention to equity and patient involvement. We offer recommendations to strengthen patient-reported measures research by attending to equity, diversity, and patient-centrism.
The value of 5-HT, leptin, and NE in the classification of premature ejaculation
Authors: Chen Zhimin , Zhang Xiansheng
Published: January 2025

Background

While premature ejaculation (PE) can be divided into lifelong PE (LPE), acquired PE, natural variable PE (NPE), and subjective PE (SPE), there is no objective method to classify PE.

Aim

To determine the value of serum serotonin (5-HT), leptin, and norepinephrine (NE) levels in the classification of PE.

Methods

From July 2023 to July 2024, we recruited 150 participants and divided them into 4 groups: LPE (43 cases), NPE (32 cases), SPE (35 cases), and non-PE (40 cases) groups. All participants' baseline data, premature ejaculation diagnostic tool score, and intravaginal ejaculation latency time were investigated. In addition, all participants' serum 5-HT, leptin, and NE levels were measured.

Outcome

Serum 5-HT, NE, and leptin levels were compared among all groups.

Results

Serum 5-HT levels were lower and NE and leptin levels were higher in the LPE group compared to the SPE, NPE, and non-PE groups (P < .05). However, serum 5-HT, leptin, and NE levels were not significantly different among the non-PE, NPE, and SPE groups (P < .05). In addition, serum 5-HT <95.0 ng/mL, NE >543.0 ng/L, and leptin >19.8 ng/mL may be predictive indicators of LPE.

Clinical Significance

Based on serum 5-HT, NE, and leptin levels, LPE can be distinguished from SPE and NPE, which provides an objective basis for the treatment of PE.

Strengths and Limitations

There is no effective method to classify PE. The main limitation of this study is the limited sample size.

Conclusion

The serum 5-HT, leptin, and NE levels in PE patients may contribute to the classification of PE.
Secondary Trauma Impact Scale: Development and Initial Validation
Authors: Bride Brian E
Published: January 2025

Instruments currently utilized in research on secondary traumatic stress (STS) fail to measure distress and impairment. To fill this gap, this article describes the development and initial validation of a new instrument designed to measure distress and impaired functioning related to work-related secondary trauma exposure. The Secondary Trauma Impact Scale (STIS) is a brief screening measure consisting of six items, each measuring a different domain of distress and impairment. Domains include social, occupational, familial, sexual, psychological, and physical functioning. Secondary analysis was conducted on data collected from 577 master’s-level social workers for a previously reported study. Results strongly support the reliability and factorial, convergent, and discriminant validity of the STIS. The ability to explicitly measure secondary trauma-related distress and impairment with a reliable and valid instrument will allow social workers to obtain more precise estimates of the prevalence of STS, identification of risk and resilience factors, and evaluation of interventions targeting the impact of STS on individuals and organizations.
Traffic Flow Prediction for Highway Based on Multi-Task Spatiotemporal Graph Network
Authors: Gao Jinyong , Luo Sheng , Tian Junshan , Zhou Cheng , An Lianhua
Published: January 2025

Efficient and precise traffic flow prediction holds great importance in effective traffic management. This research presents a novel prediction model that integrates highway spatial changes and flow-related information (speed and vehicle composition). The highway is divided into segments, using key reference points like tunnels, toll stations, and ramps. An adaptive graph convolutional network is employed to capture relationships between these segments. The network automatically adjusts adjacency matrix weights, facilitating the extraction of spatial flow features. Incorporating flow related information, a multi-task module attention fusion network is introduced. The main task is traffic flow prediction, with average travel speed and vehicle composition as auxiliary tasks. This approach enhances feature acquisition and improves prediction accuracy. In experiments using Fuzhou–Jingtan Expressway data, the model significantly enhances prediction accuracy by at least 55%. Ablation experiments validate the effectiveness of the designed modules, improving the model's accuracy from 20% to 45%.
Revealing the dance of NLRP3: spatiotemporal patterns in inflammasome activation
Authors: Spector Lauren , Subramanian Naeha
Published: January 2025

The nucleotide-binding domain, leucine-rich repeat, and pyrin domain containing-protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome is a multiprotein complex that plays a critical role in the innate immune response to both infections and sterile stressors. Dysregulated NLRP3 activation has been implicated in a variety of autoimmune and inflammatory diseases, including cryopyrin-associated periodic fever syndromes, diabetes, atherosclerosis, Alzheimer’s disease, inflammatory bowel disease, and cancer. Consequently, fine-tuning NLRP3 activity holds significant therapeutic potential. Studies have implicated several organelles, including mitochondria, lysosomes, the endoplasmic reticulum (ER), the Golgi apparatus, endosomes, and the centrosome, in NLRP3 localization and inflammasome assembly. However, reports of conflict and many factors regulating interactions between NLRP3 and subcellular organelles remain unknown. This review synthesizes the current understanding of NLRP3 spatiotemporal dynamics, focusing on recent literature that elucidates the roles of subcellular localization and organelle stress in NLRP3 signaling and its crosstalk with other innate immune pathways converging at these organelles.