bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inertia effects in the spatial distribution and dynamics of active particles with space-dependent activity
Authors: Lian Wen-chao , Yang Hao-chen , Tian Wen-de , Zhang Tian Hui , Chen Kang
Published: February 2025

The activity of particles can be modulated by external conditions such as light irradiation. Research on active particles with spatially varying activity has demonstrated that active particles tend to accumulate in low-activity regions and form a polarity layer at the interface, directed from the high-activity to the low-activity region. Here, we investigate the distribution and dynamics of individual or an ideal gas of inertial particles in a space with alternating active and passive regions. Our findings reveal that high inertia leads to a pronounced depletion layer in the passive region. At the interface between the active and passive regions, in addition to the usual polarity layer, an adjacent anti-polarity layer forms on the active-region side. In extreme situations (narrow region width and long persistence times), the interfacial polarity layer can even reverse orientation. Dynamically, we observe long-time peaks in the velocity autocorrelation function of particles within the active region. For particles with high inertia, the peak can even exceed 1. Correspondingly, the mean squared displacement of high-inertia particles in the active region exhibits an unusual superdiffusive behavior (∼t3). In addition, kinetic temperature and pressure differences arise between the active and passive regions. The effective temperature of particles with high inertia exhibits a gradual gradient across the active region. Our study provides new insights into the behavior of inertial active particles under spatially modulated activity and lays the groundwork for further exploration of their collective behaviors when interactions are included.
Application of an array laser–cantilever–magnet measurement sensor incorporated with digital shearography in a Lorentz force particle analyzer
Authors: Wang Bo , Zhang San , Wang Yueyu , Mao Feilong , Xu Baohui
Published: February 2025

A Lorentz force particle analyzer (LFPA) is a contactless measuring apparatus used to detect inclusions or defects within metallic materials. A laser–cantilever–magnet (LCM) sensor is a reliable method to measure the variations of Lorentz force caused by inclusions in LFPA. In this paper, digital shearography technology, whose displacement resolution is up to 30 nm, is involved in an array LCM measurement sensor to acquire the displacement distribution of the array cantilever. The experimental setup is constructed, and the three-step phase-shifting method is selected to calculate the displacement of cantilevers. The array LCM sensor is arranged in a staggered two-row configuration, and the interval of each sensor is set as 2 mm to avoid mutual disturbance through the numerical method. In the measuring experiment, a pre-experiment, which generates periodic deformation of the cantilever using a piezoelectric ceramic actuator, is first conducted to verify the reliability of the system. Then, dynamic measurement experiments under three different conditions are conducted, and the displacement distributions of the array cantilever are obtained by the phase difference map. The dynamic experimental results show that the displacement of the cantilevers is in the order of μm. Meanwhile, the variation of the Lorentz force and the deformation of the cantilever caused by defects in three different conditions are calculated by numerical simulation. Finally, the results of the experiments and numerical simulations under various conditions are compared. The displacements of the cantilevers are very close in all cases, indicating that the array LCM sensor incorporated with digital shearography technology is robust and reliable to measure the minute force changes in LFPA.
The tempo and presence of university students’ learning across schoolscapes
Authors: Peltoniemi Aaron Joshua , Szabó Tamás Péter , Hämäläinen Raija
Published: February 2025

Although the term schoolscapes often alludes to physical spaces, contemporary schoolscapes not
only exist physically but also virtually, requiring students to navigate through different spatialities and temporalities. In this
study, we interviewed six Information and Software Engineering university students to explore how tempo and presence converge with
learning experiences within physical and virtual schoolscapes. Using thematic analysis, two themes were identified: I) synchronous
learning in designated learning spaces, and II) asynchronous learning in non-designated learning spaces. Presence was the
principal concept, which was divided into social presence, co-presence, cognitive presence, emotional presence, teaching presence,
and place presence, and captured students’ learning experiences across schoolscapes. Results showed that the tempo of Information
and Software Engineering university students’ learning was based on how each category of presence and learning mode
(synchronous/asynchronous) related to their learning needs or preferences.
The use of D-D reactions to diagnose the lifetime of spin polarized fuel
Authors: Garcia Alvin , Heidbrink William W , Sandorfi Andrew M J
Published: February 2025

If the nuclei remain polarized, spin polarized fuel can increase the fusion power produced in a reactor while using less fuel. This study assesses whether reactions between an unpolarized deuterium (D) beam and polarized deuterium nuclei can in principle experimentally ascertain the persistence of nuclear polarization in a magnetic fusion experiment. The differential cross section for D-D reactions between unpolarized and polarized nuclei depends upon polarization, so the polarization state can be inferred from measurements of the D-D fusion products. An evaluation is performed for 3-MeV proton detection in the DIII-D tokamak using 81 keV neutral beams and polarized target fuel injected as a pellet. Measurement of the escaping proton pitch v
3,‖/v
3 is insensitive to the degree of polarization but energy-resolved measurements are sensitive. The sensitivity is comparable for different angles of beam injection. Because the D-D reaction rate is large for this scenario, uncertainties associated with counting statistics are small, making inference of the polarization feasible with current technology.
When should the nephrologist think about genetics in patients with glomerular diseases?
Authors: Torra Roser , Barros Xoana , Díaz-Encarnación Montserrat , Fayos Leonor , Furlano Mónica , Pilco Melissa , Pybus Marc , Shabaka Amir , Viera Elizabeth , Ars Elisabet
Published: February 2025

This review discusses the significance of genetics in diagnosing glomerular diseases. Advances in genetic testing, particularly next-generation sequencing, have improved the accessibility and accuracy of diagnosing monogenic diseases, allowing for targeted gene panels and whole-exome/genome sequencing to identify genetic variants associated with glomerular diseases.

Key indicators for considering a genetic cause include the age of onset, extrarenal features, family history, and inconclusive kidney biopsy results. Early-onset diseases, for instance, have a higher likelihood of being genetically caused, while extrarenal manifestations can also suggest an underlying genetic conditions. A thorough family history can reveal patterns of inheritance that point to monogenic causes, although complexities like incomplete penetrance, skewed X inactivation and mosaicism can complicate the assessment. Also, autosomal recessive conditions imply asymptomatic parents, making genetic suspicion less likely, while de novo mutations can occur without any family history, further obscuring genetic assessment.

Focal Segmental Glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) is characterized by podocyte injury and depletion, presenting in various forms including primary, genetic, and secondary FSGS. Accurate classification of FSGS patients based on clinical and histological features is essential for guiding treatment decisions, optimizing therapeutic plans, avoiding unnecessary immunosuppression, and predicting relapse risk after kidney transplantation.

Overall, a clinicopathological approach, enriched by genetic testing, offers a precise framework for diagnosis and management in glomerular diseases. Future directions for research and clinical practice include potential advancements in genetic testing and personalized medicine, which could further improve diagnostic precision and individualized treatment strategies.
May Measurement Month 2022: an analysis of blood pressure screening results from Venezuela
Authors: Guzmán-Franolic Monica L , Duin-Balza Amanda , Beaney Thomas , Kerr Gabriela , Rawik-Dagher Yuly , Poulter Neil R , Armas-Hernandez María J , Octavio-Seijas José A , Armas-Padilla María C , Silva Eglé , Sosa-Canache Beatriz , Morr Igor , Hernández-Hernandez Rafael
Published: February 2025

Cardiovascular diseases continue to be the main cause of death in Venezuela, and hypertension is the primary risk factor. The May Measurement Month (MMM) campaign has been conducted annually in Venezuela since 2017. In 2022 (MMM22), the campaign included 46 239 participants with a mean age of 57.3 (SD 14.9) years and 57.2% were female. The percentage of participants with hypertension was 59.0% (females: 56.1%; males: 62.9%), of those 80.6% were aware of their condition and 78.9% were on antihypertensive medication. Among those receiving drug treatment, 58.8% were controlled to <140/90 mmHg, and of the overall hypertensive population, 46.4% were controlled. Of those taking antihypertensive medication, 58.5% received one antihypertensive drug, 31.7% two drugs and 9.8% were on three or more drugs. When results were age-sex standardised, the prevalence of hypertension was lower at 39.9%. Other CV risk factors were also identified: 8.3% reported having diabetes, 21.0% were obese (BMI ≥ 30 kgm2), 36.3% were overweight (BMI ≥ 25 & <30 kgm2), 8.5% were current smokers, and 53.9% reported inadequate physical activity. Additionally, 53.1% of females and 25.4% of males had an abnormal abdominal circumference classified as abdominal obesity. Furthermore, a previous myocardial infarction, stroke, or heart failure was reported by 2.7%, 1.7% and 2.4%, respectively. In conclusion, this study confirms the suitability of opportunistic screening in detecting large numbers with previously unknown hypertension, although the population prevalence of hypertension may be overestimated. It also identified overall poor control rates, highlighting the need for improved initiatives for BP screening and management.
May Measurement Month 2022: an analysis of blood pressure screening results from Uganda
Authors: Mondo Charles Kiiza , Poulter Neil R , Baluku Joseph Baruch , Anthony Ocanit , Jane Okutiru , Beaney Thomas , Kerr Gabriele , Wanzhu Zhang
Published: February 2025

The May Measurement Month (MMM) campaign was carried out in Uganda in 2022 with the aim of raising awareness of raised blood pressure (BP). Here, we report on the findings of the campaign.

Adults aged ≥ 18 years were recruited opportunistically at St Francis Hospital, Nsambya and Kiruddu National Referral Hospital in Kampala. Three seated BP readings were taken for each participant, along with completion of a questionnaire on demographics, lifestyle factors, and comorbidities. Hypertension was defined as a systolic BP ≥ 140 mmHg and/or diastolic BP ≥ 90 mmHg or being on antihypertensive medication. Controlled BP was defined as being on antihypertensive medication with a BP <140/90 mmHg. Multiple imputation was used to estimate any missing BP readings. In total, 2414 were screened, with a mean age of 44.4 years and 58.0% were female. Of all participants, 1086 (45.0%) had hypertension, of whom 725 (66.8%) were aware, and 691 (63.6%) were on antihypertensive medication. Of those on antihypertensive medication, 244 (35.3%) had controlled BP, and of all participants with hypertension, 22.5% had controlled BP.

Conclusion The MMM campaign in Uganda identified significant numbers of participants with either untreated or inadequately treated hypertension, highlighting the potential impact of this campaign on hypertension awareness and BP control.
Bioprospecting Endophytic Fungi of Forest Plants for their Monoamine Oxidase A and Cholinesterases Inhibitors, and Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor Gamma Agonists
Authors: El-Sayed El-Sayed R , Grzelczyk Joanna , Strzała Tomasz , Gałązka-Czarnecka Ilona , Budryn Grażyna , Boratyński Filip
Published: February 2025

Aims

The urgent search for new natural bioactive compounds is crucial to address growing clinical demands. With this perspective, this paper focuses on isolating and bioprospecting fungal endophytes from some plant species in a local forest in Wroclaw, Poland.

Methods and Results

Forty-three fungal endophytes were isolated and their extracts were tested for inhibitory potential against monoamine oxidase A (MAO-A), acetylcholinesterase (AChE), butyrylcholinesterase (BChE), and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPAR-γ) agonists. Six promising strains after screening were identified to possess all these activities. These strains and their respective plant hosts were Sphaeropsis sapinea BUK-L2 (Fagus sylvatica), Coniochaeta velutina SW-B (Picea abies), Epicoccum nigrum COR-B (Corylus avellana), Paraphaeosphaeria verruculosa JAR-B (Sorbus aucuparia), Umbelopsis isabellina COR-L1 (Corylus avellana), and Epicoccum mezzettii QR-B (Quercus robur). Moreover, gamma irradiation at several doses (Gy) was separately applied to the fungal cultures to study their enhancement effects on the recorded activities. Finally, compounds of active bands from preparative TLC of the two promising strains (Coniochaeta velutina SW-B and Epicoccum nigrum COR-B), were identified by GC-MS.

Conclusions

The present study is the first report on bioprospecting endophytic fungi of forest plants for aforementioned activities.
Altruism or Selfishness: Floral behavior based on genetic relatedness with neighboring plants
Authors: Tomizuka Haruto , Yamawo Akira , Tachiki Yuuya
Published: February 2025

Kin recognition in plants may lead to plastic changes in their behavior, such as altering their floral display size. In this study, we conducted evolutionary simulations of the two floral tactics utilized by plants depending on the genetic relatedness of their neighboring plants. We found that the evolutionary consequences of the floral display size in plants can be classified into four types, based on whether the floral display size increased or decreased in comparison with the case plants disable of kin recognition. As a typical result, the plants that grew with kin behaved altruistically by increasing their floral display size, whereas those that coexisted with strangers behaved selfishly by reducing their floral display size, as is observed in the field. The kin recognition and resultant evolution of the floral display size had the spillover effect on the population scale. Kin recognition generally increased the intraspecific variation in the floral display size and seed production, and decreased the genetic diversity of plant populations.
Investigating ungulate site use as a driver of Culicoides (Diptera: Ceratopogonidae) emergence from larval habitats
Authors: McGregor Bethany L , Markwardt Chip F , Davis Travis M
Published: February 2025

Culicoides (Diptera: Ceratopogonidae) Latreille biting midges are the vectors of several viruses of veterinary significance. The larvae of some biting midge species develop in semiaquatic habitats that are affected by the activity of vertebrates. However, the importance of vertebrate animal activity in biting midge density has not been satisfactorily quantified. The goal of this study was to investigate the impact that three different hooved animals representing agricultural (cattle), wild (cervids), and intermediate (bison) animal populations have on the density and emergence of Culicoides from larval habitats. Trail cameras recorded vertebrate activity at eight sites at the Konza Prairie Biological Station with cattle, cervids, and/or bison, which was paired with larval substrate sampling to investigate midge density. The total time spent by all 3 target animals over the previous month and the average time spent by bison were significantly positively correlated with overall biting midge emergence. Species-specific analyses revealed significant positive associations of C. crepuscularis Malloch with several cattle variables including number of cattle days and events and average number of cattle, while more bison variables were found to be significant for C. haematopotus Malloch (bison days and bison events, negative associations) and C. variipennis Coquillett (negative associations for bison days and average number of bison; positive relationship with average bison time). Significant results for cervids included negative associations of C. crepuscularis with average cervid time and C. variipennis with cervid days. These results show that different ungulates impact midge abundance and emergence in different ways, improving our understanding of midge population drivers.
The role of electric dominance for particle injection in relativistic reconnection
Authors: Gupta Sanya , Sridhar Navin , Sironi Lorenzo
Published: February 2025

Magnetic reconnection in relativistic plasmas—where the magnetization σ ≫ 1—is regarded as an efficient particle accelerator, capable of explaining the most dramatic astrophysical flares. We employ two-dimensional (2D) particle-in-cell simulations of relativistic pair-plasma reconnection with vanishing guide field and outflow boundaries to quantify the impact of the energy gain occurring in regions of electric dominance (E > B) for the early stages of particle acceleration (i.e., the “injection” stage). Given an injection threshold energy ε* = σ/4 for the particles that eventually attain energy εT by time T, we calculate the mean fractional contribution ζ(ε*, εT) by E > B fields to particle energization at the time when the threshold ε* is reached. We find that ζ monotonically increases with σ and εT; for σ ≳ 50 and εT/σ ≳ 8, we find that ≳ 80 % of the energy gain obtained before reaching ε* = σ/4 occurs in E > B regions. We find that ζ is independent of simulation box size Lx, as long as εT is normalized to the maximum particle energy, which scales as $\epsilon _{\rm max}\propto L_{\rm x}^{1/2}$ in 2D. The distribution of energy gains εχ acquired in E > B regions can be modeled as $dN/d\epsilon _{\chi }\propto \epsilon _{\chi }^{-0.35}\exp [-(\epsilon _{\chi }/0.06\, \sigma )^{0.5}]$. Our results help assess the role of electric dominance in relativistic reconnection with vanishing guide fields, which is realized in the magnetospheres of black holes and neutron stars.
An update on the pathogenesis of idiopathic inflammatory myopathies
Authors: Tiniakou Eleni
Published: February 2025

Purpose of review

As the question of the pathogenesis of inflammatory myopathies remains unanswered, there has been a significant effort in recent years to investigate various components of the innate and adaptive immune systems, with evidence pointing that they work together to initiate and propagate the autoimmune response. This review aims to explore recent advancements in understanding the mechanisms underlying myopathies.

Recent findings

Recent research has concentrated on uncovering potential triggers, examining the role of immune cells, both lymphocytes and myeloids, and investigating the contribution of inflammatory mediators to the autoimmune response in inflammatory myopathies. Unsuccessful clinical trials helped reshape established hypotheses about pathogenesis, while genetic mutations offered clues to the disease's root causes. The pathogenic role of autoantibodies is being reconsidered based on transcriptional data. Repurposing existing medications to combat muscle fiber dysfunction is also emerging as a potential therapeutic approach.

Our understanding of inflammatory myopathies has evolved significantly as our understanding of the disease has grown. Even though breakthroughs have been documented on the underlying mechanisms of myopathies, important questions remain unanswered.
Influence of the Surgeon’s First Operation of the Day on Patient Outcomes
Authors: Dagnino Filippo , Polazzi tephanie , Lifante Jean-Christophe , Dey Tanujit , Duclos Antoine ,   TopSurgeons Study Group
Published: February 2025

Objective:

To investigate whether the cumulative operative time spent by a surgeon operating on patients on the same day prior to starting a new procedure was associated with surgical outcomes.

Background:

The impact of daily operating room workload on a surgeon’s performance and patient outcomes is uncertain.

Methods:

All elective patients, operated by attending surgeons across seven specialties in four French hospitals between 11/01/2020-12/31/2021, were included. Surgeons’ operative workload the same day before each operation was measured in minutes by cumulating incision-to-closure times for all their patients as the primary operator. Composite of adverse events within 30 days post-surgery, encompassed major surgical complications, unplanned reoperation, extended ICU stay, and patient death. Generalized linear mixed models estimated the association between each outcome and operative workload, considering the clustering of operations by surgeons, and adjusting for patient comorbidities, procedure complexity, and surgeon characteristics.

Results:

The cohort included 7,979 elective surgeries performed by 44 surgeons. Composite adverse events rates were higher in the 0-minute group compared to those with a higher duration (20.7% vs. 12.5%, P<0.001), as were rates of major complications (19.3% vs. 11.7%, P<0.001), reoperations (6.5% vs. 3.4%, P=0.005), and ICU stay (3.7% vs. 1.2%, P=0.016). When the surgeon had already spent time operating on patients prior to the procedure, adjusted relative risks were lower for composite adverse events (aRR 0.85 [95%CI 0.76–0.95]), major complications (0.86 [0.76–0.97]), reoperation (0.78 [0.63–0.97]), and ICU stay (0.69 [0.49–0.98]).

Conclusions:

First patient of the day may experience worse outcomes, prompting surgeons to warm up before starting surgery. Further research is needed to replicate these findings, as many surgeons may prioritize starting with the most complex and challenging cases, which inherently carry greater risks.
Population-scale cellular GUIDE-seq-2 and biochemical CHANGE-seq-R profiles reveal human genetic variation frequently affects Cas9 off-target activity
Authors: Lazzarotto Cicera R. , Li Yichao , Flory Ashley R. , Chyr Jacqueline , Yang Muyu , Katta Varun , Urbina Elizabeth , Lee GaHyun , Wood Rachael , Matsubara Azusa , Rashkin Sara R. , Ma Jian , Cheng Yong , Tsai Shengdar Q.
Published: February 2025

Genome editing enzymes can introduce targeted changes to the DNA in living cells1–4, transforming biological research and enabling the first approved gene editing therapy for sickle cell disease5. However, their genome-wide activity can be altered by genetic variation at on- or off-target sites6–8, potentially impacting both their precision and therapeutic safety. Due to a lack of scalable methods to measure genome-wide editing activity in cells from large populations and diverse target libraries, the frequency and extent of these variant effects on editing remains unknown. Here, we present the first population-scale study of how genetic variation affects the cellular genome-wide activity of CRISPR-Cas9, enabled by a novel, sensitive, and unbiased cellular assay, GUIDE-seq-2 with improved scalability and accuracy compared to the original broadly adopted method9. Analyzing Cas9 genome-wide activity at 1,115 on- and off-target sites across six guide RNAs in cells from 95 individuals spanning four genetically diverse populations, we found that variants frequently overlap off-target sites, with 13% significantly altering Cas9 editing activity by up to 33% indels. To understand common features of high-impact variants, we developed a new massively parallel biochemical assay, CHANGE-seq-R, to measure Cas9 activity across millions of mismatched target sites, and trained a deep neural network model, CHANGE-net, to accurately predict and interpret the effects of single-nucleotide variants on off-targets with up to six mismatches. Taken together, our findings illuminate a path to account for genetic variation when designing genome editing strategies for research and therapeutics.
Merkel cell polyomavirus infection and persistence modelled in skin organoids
Authors: Albertini Silvia , Czech-Sioli Manja , Günther Thomas , Virdi Sanamjeet , Blümke Patrick , Röpke Lisann , Brinschwitz Veronika , Dandri Maura , Allweiss Lena , Reimer Rudolf , Schneider Carola , Hansen Arne , Krasemann Susanne , Wyler Emanuel , Landthaler Markus , Grundhoff Adam , Fischer Nicole
Published: February 2025

Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV) causes most Merkel cell carcinomas (MCC). The virus is one of the few known human tumor viruses, and due to its direct role in this skin cancer development, it is a bona fide model for viral tumorigenesis and tumorigenesis in general. Chronic viruses in humans such as MCPyV are highly adapted to their host and current models to study infection, persistence and pathogenesis are highly limited. We here use an induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived hair-bearing skin organoid (SkO) system to demonstrate efficient viral infection, progression and spread of MCPyV. Using bulk-, single cell - and spatial-transcriptomics, combined with immunostaining and nucleic acid hybridization technologies, we show that MCPyV ensures persistence due to a quasi-latency state within the majority of dermal fibroblasts carry the viral genome. Further, we identify the cell type of productive infection with papillary fibroblasts and dermal sheath fibroblasts supporting viral replication and progeny production. Our high-resolution methods demonstrate that the virus in these cells evades the innate immune response, as evidenced by the efficacy of interferon-beta treatment or ruxolitinib, a JAK/STAT inhibitor, in suppressing or stimulating viral replication. We show that iPSC-derived SkOs are able to support infection and long-term persistence of the virus under conditions very similar to those found in humans. Thus, this infection model provides a robust platform for understanding and characterizing the interaction of this virus with the immune system in infection, testing treatment strategies to control reactivation and map processes involved in tumor development.
Do lifestyle factors affect Patient-RepOrted clinical outcomes after total Knee replacement surgery? A feasibility cohort study (PRO-Knee)
Authors: Stephens Gareth , Liloglou Triantafyllos , Moffatt Maria , Littlewood Chris
Published: February 2025

Aims

To evaluate the feasibility of a substantive cohort study to determine whether modifiable lifestyle factors, including smoking, physical inactivity, alcohol consumption and being overweight, affect patient-reported clinical outcomes after total knee replacement surgery.

Methods

Adults awaiting total knee replacement surgery were recruited pre-operatively and completed self-reported questionnaires at baseline and 3- and 6-months post-surgery. Feasibility outcomes, including recruitment, retention and response rate of the primary outcome questionnaire were analysed descriptively.

Results

40 participants were recruited from 183 eligible patients (22%). 87.5% (35/40) participants returned questionnaires at 6-months. 85% (34/40) of participants were overweight (BMI>24.9), 25% (10/40) drank alcohol (AUDIT-C > 4), 5% (2/40) smoked tobacco and 67.5% (27/40) were physically inactive (GPAQ classification of ‘moderately inactive’, or ‘inactive’).

Conclusion

Modifiable lifestyle factors including smoking, alcohol use, physical inactivity and being overweight are highly prevalent in patients waiting for total knee replacement. Based on this study, a future substantive cohort study investigating the effect of lifestyle factors on clinical outcomes post total knee replacement in the UK NHS is feasible.
Genetic data and meteorological conditions: unravelling the windborne transmission of H5N1 high-pathogenicity avian influenza between commercial poultry outbreaks
Authors: Nagy Alexander , Černíková Lenka , Sedlák Kamil
Published: February 2025

Understanding the transmission routes of high-pathogenicity avian influenza (HPAI) is crucial for developing effective control measures to prevent its spread. In this context, windborne transmission, the idea that the virus can travel through the air over considerable distances, is a contentious concept and, documented cases are rare. Here, though, we provide genetic evidence supporting the feasibility of windborne transmission. During the 2023-24 HPAI season, molecular surveillance identified identical H5N1 strains among a cluster of unrelated commercial farms about 8 km apart in the Czech Republic. The episode started with the abrupt mortality of fattening ducks on one farm and was followed by disease outbreaks at two nearby high-biosecurity chicken farms. Using genetic, epizootiological, meteorological and geographical data, we reconstructed a mosaic of events strongly suggesting wind was the mechanism of infection transmission between poultry in at least two independent cases. By aligning the genetic and meteorological data with critical outbreak events, we determined the most likely time window during which the transmission occurred and inferred the sequence of infected houses at the recipient sites. Our results suggest that the contaminated plume emitted from the infected fattening duck farm was the critical medium of HPAI transmission, rather than the dust generated during depopulation. Furthermore, they also strongly implicate the role of confined mechanically-ventilated buildings with high population densities in facilitating windborne transmission and propagating virus concentrations below the minimum infectious dose at the recipient sites. These findings underscore the importance of considering windborne spread in future outbreak mitigation strategies.
Temperature-dependence of Early Development of Zebrafish and the Consequences for Laboratory Use and Animal Welfare
Authors: Miller Angelina , Schröder Katja Lisa , Braun Karsten Eike , Steindorf Caitlin , Ottermanns Richard , Roß-Nickoll Martina , Hollert Henner , Backhaus Thomas
Published: February 2025

Zebrafish (Danio rerio) is widely used as a model organism in biological research. However, the impact of different incubation temperatures on specific developmental endpoints is still insufficiently studied.

This study quantifies developmental differences of zebrafish embryos incubated at two commonly used temperatures (26 °C and 28 °C), focusing on key developmental endpoints (onset of heartbeat, hatching time, eye size, yolk sac consumption, body length). For this purpose, we recorded a high-resolution time series comprising hourly observations of early developmental stages and key events and bi-hourly observations of body length until 120 hours post fertilization. Additionally, we recorded a low-resolution time series at 72, 96, and 119 hours post fertilization for detailed measurements of eye size, yolk sac area, and swim bladder size.

Embryos incubated at 26 °C consistently exhibited delays in reaching developmental stages compared to those reared at 28 °C. Significant differences were apparent from the earliest stages of development, with the delays becoming more pronounced as the embryos progressed to more complex stages. Yolk sac consumption was delayed by approximately 10 hours at 26 °C by 120 hours post fertilization, indicating a delayed onset of independent feeding. These data suggest that exclusively time-based regulatory limits for rearing zebrafish eleutheroembryos, such as the 120 hours post fertilization threshold commonly interpreted from the German regulation TierSchVerV (Tierschutz-Versuchstierverordnung), do not adequately account for the temperature-dependency of zebrafish development.

The results highlight the need for guidelines that link incubation temperatures to developmental progress.
Behavioral reasoning in technological adoption: consumer response to early-stage radical innovations
Authors: Sharma Anshu , Gandhi Aradhana Vikas
Published: February 2025

Purpose

Despite a sizeable body of innovation adoption scholarship, innovation failure rates are estimated to be in the range of 40% to 80%. This study aims to better explain the complex consumer decision-making journey by leveraging behavioral reasoning theory (BRT) and integrating the dichotomous influences of reasons for (RF) and reasons against (RA), and the role of moderators in a unified behavioral framework.

Design/methodology/approach

First, an exploratory reason elicitation study was conducted (n = 44) to propose a theoretical model with contextual reasons for and against constructs. Second, a quantitative study was conducted (n = 400) to validate the hypothesized structural relationships and the role of moderators.

Findings

Reasons for and against adoption are discrete constructs and significantly impact consumer attitudes and intentions. Reasons for adoption emerge as the strongest influencing factor in shaping consumer attitudes. Values influence intentions directly and via reasons but do not influence attitudes. Consumer innovativeness and external stressors moderate consumers’ resistance toward adopting innovations.

Practical implications

This study presents a novel approach for managers to generate deeper insights into consumer decision-making by integrating contextual reasons for and against, as well as the role of moderators in a unified behavioral framework. This approach enables managers to address both drivers and inhibitors of adoption in the specific radical innovation context they are working on.

Originality/value

This study integrates reasons for and against in a unified behavioral framework and applies it to radical technological innovations in an emerging market context. This study introduces novel constructs to BRT and examines the role of moderators in the BRT framework.
The Ghost Dance and Wounded Knee: teaching spiritual resistance to colonialism
Authors: Corrigan Sean
Published: February 2025

Purpose

This article uses Tribal Critical Race Theory (TribalCrit) and human rights education (HRE) to frame social studies instruction about the Ghost Dance movement of the late 1800s. This religious ritual served as a source of spiritual communion for Native Americans across the Western United States during an especially brutal era of colonization, most tragically exemplified by the Wounded Knee Massacre. The critical approaches offered are meant to challenge dominant narratives that often neglect or minimize colonialism and White supremacy.

Design/methodology/approach

TribalCrit is useful in framing acts of racism and genocide faced by Indigenous people in American history and can help teachers approach issues of social justice in a way that identifies oppression, while also promoting empathy and advocacy (Brayboy, 2005; Sabzalian et al., 2021). Furthermore, human rights concepts can support a critical interrogation of colonialism by providing a framework that guides analysis of multidimensional oppression (Bajaj, 2011).

Findings

The pedagogical approaches included in this article link the historical context of these events to tenets of TribalCrit and HRE. These strategies are explicitly connected to the National Curriculum Standards for Social Studies and the C3 Framework. A lesson plan and enrichment sources, linked to the C3 Inquiry Design Model, are provided.

Originality/value

The Ghost Dance is a powerful illustration of spiritual resistance to colonial policies and ideologies in the United States, such as the Dawes Act and Christian nationalism. An examination of this important religious movement through the critical lenses offered here may build empathy, support justice-oriented citizenship and decolonize curriculum.
The effectiveness of an auditory integration‐based developmental support programme on the sensory development and self‐regulation skills of autistic children in Turkey
Authors: Cetin‐Sultanoglu Saliha , Aral Neriman
Published: February 2025

This study examines the impact of an auditory integration‐based developmental support programme on the sensory development and self‐regulation skills of children with autism aged three to five years in Turkey. This mixed‐methodology research combined quantitative and qualitative methods, and data were collected using a general information form, the individual needs determination form, the adapted autism behaviour checklist (ABC), the Gilliam autism rating scale‐2‐Turkish version (GARS‐2‐T), the sense and self‐regulation checklist (SSC) and semi‐structured interviews. An AB model was used to determine the effectiveness of the auditory integration programme in supporting the sensory and self‐regulation skills of children with autism. The quantitative data were graphically analysed, while the qualitative data underwent content analysis. The findings establish that the children's final evaluation results were lower than their initial assessments, signifying that the intervention had a positive impact. The qualitative data obtained from interviews with the participating children's mothers concurred with the quantitative results, and the mothers expressed favourable views regarding the programme.
Is Survival Impacted by One or Several Successive Cancers After Liver Transplantation? A French National Study
Authors: Briant Anaïs R. , Morello Rémy , Sérée Olivier , Vigneron Nicolas , Wilson Sarah , Besch Camille , Houssel‐Debry Pauline , Pageaux Georges‐Philippe , Coilly Audrey , Dumortier Jérôme , Altieri Mario
Published: February 2025

Background and Aim

De novo cancers after liver transplantation (LT) are major causes of complications and mortality after LT. No report was found in the literature on several successive cancers (SSC). The aim of this study was to see if the survival of one or more cancers was different and to study the survival prognostic factors of patients with one cancer or SSC after LT.

Methods

Using data from the French national database, 114 French patients who underwent LT between 1993 and 2012 were followed up until their death or until June 2016. The Cox model performed to analyze potential risk factors (cancer characteristics, immunosuppressive therapy (IT), smoking, and alcohol use).

Results

After an average follow‐up of 9.8 ± 5.1 years, 52 patients developed 1 cancer, 49 had 2 cancers, and 13 had 3 cancers. The reduction in survival time was significantly and independently associated with the metastatic stage (hazard ratio (HR) = 3.98, 95% confidence interval (95% CI) = [1.45–10.93], p < 0.001), ENT (otolaryngology), and respiratory cancer versus genitourinary (HR = 8.28, 95% CI = [3.12–22.02], p < 0.001), and SSC (HR = 2.54, 95% CI = [1.39–4.65], p = 0.014).

Conclusion

The patients with ENT, respiratory cancers have a shorter survival. The stage of cancer and SSC reduces median survival at 10 years. The earliness of the first cancer should be taken as a warning signal of risk of SSC and impaired survival.
Artificial Intelligence Literacy Levels of Perioperative Nurses: The Case of Türkiye
Authors: Kahraman Hilal , Akutay Seda , Yüceler Kaçmaz Hatice , Taşci Sultan
Published: February 2025

Artificial intelligence (AI) experience among nurses in perioperative settings is crucial for effective healthcare delivery. This study aimed to assess AI literacy levels and associated characteristics among perioperative nurses in Türkiye. This cross‐sectional study was conducted between March 15 and April 15, 2024, and included 505 perioperative nurses. Data were collected online using the “Nurse Information Form” and “AI Literacy Scale.” Snowball sampling technique was used to enlist individuals. The mean literacy score was 44.35 ± 5.88, which means moderate proficiency. Key elements associated with high literacy levels included being male, familiarity with and use of AI applications, youth, seeing AI as a tool to alleviate workload, and using information technology tools. The results show that although perioperative nurses have a moderate level of AI literacy, their use of AI tools is minimal. The findings underline the need for professional development in AI integration and the inclusion of relevant materials in nursing education programs.
A new species in Iris section Pseudoregelia (Iridaceae) from Gansu, China
Authors: Yu Feng‐yang , Bai Zengfu , Chen Xuelin , Xiao Yuee
Published: February 2025

Iris longnanensis Z.F.Bai, Y.E.Xiao, F.Y.Yu (Iridaceae: Iris subg. Iris sect. Pseudoregelia), a novel herbaceous species native to the arid and thermal valleys of Longnan city, Gansu Province, China, is described and illustrated here. Morphologically akin to I. leptophylla Lingelsheim, I. longnanensis is distinguished by its dense, persistent foliage and notably short new leaves (6.6–15.1 cm) during the blooming season, along with its distinctive purplish‐brown flowering stem. Phylogenetic analyses based on chloroplast DNA sequences corroborate the classification of I. longnanensis within the section Pseudoregelia, highlighting the significance of this new species discovery for understanding the evolution and diversity within the genus.
The PopbZIP2‐PopMYB4 regulatory module enhances disease resistance in poplars by modulating proanthocyanidin accumulation
Authors: Tan Shuxian , Chen Sisi , Zhang Haoyu , Si Jingna , Wang Haofei , Wang Tong , Zhang Xiang , Wang Yue , Wu Jiadong , Zhang Deqiang , Bao Fei , Xie Jianbo
Published: February 2025

Anthracnose, caused by Colletotrichum gloeosporioides, is a significant fungal disease that affects poplar trees globally, leading to reduced yields and substantial economic losses. Proanthocyanidins (PAs) play a key role in resistance to fungal pathogens; however, the mechanisms by which PAs mediate resistance to anthracnose in poplar remain poorly understood.

In this study, we identified PopbZIP2, a transcription factor‐encoding gene that was initially expressed in infected leaves and subsequently in uninfected leaves in response to C. gloeosporioides infection. As a transcriptional activator, PopbZIP2 can bind to the promoters of target genes PopGRF3 and PopAPA1, increasing proanthocyanidin levels in cells to enhance defense against pathogens. It is noteworthy that the PopAPA1 protein can directly inhibit pathogen growth.

We further demonstrated that PopMYB4 can interact with PopbZIP2, reducing its promoter binding activity and thereby inhibiting the expression of PopGRF3 and PopAPA1. Overexpression of PopMYB4 led to sensitivity to the pathogen C. gloeosporiodes. Under normal conditions, the soluble and insoluble proanthocyanidin contents in PopMYB4 transgenic plants were significantly lower compared to the control.

The dual regulation of immune responses by the PopMYB4‐PopbZIP2 module unveils a novel regulatory mechanism in Populus, enhancing our understanding of the complex networks governing immune responses.
Fabrication and characterization of metallic glass nanowire-anchored microfluidic channels
Authors: Theeda Sumanth , Kumar Golden
Published: February 2025

Nanowire-based microfluidic devices combine the strengths of microfluidics and nanostructures for applications in cell biology and chemical sensing. However, their use has been limited by the complexity of the fabrication methods. In this study, we present a simple approach for fabricating and integrating metallic glass nanowires into microfluidic channels. Metallic glass nanowires were formed by thermoplastic drawing on a silicon substrate. The silicon-anchored nanowire array was sealed with a PDMS channel to create a nanowire-integrated microfluidic device. The effect of nanowire geometry on the flow rate was characterized. The experimental results were compared with CFD simulations to understand the fluid-nanowire interaction. The potential of surface modification to functionalize the metallic glass nanowires was evaluated.
Enrichment of solar heat exchanger thermal performance by the integration of beeswax and hybrid nanofluid (ZnO/MgO)
Authors: Venkatesh R. , M. Soudagar Manzoore Elahi , Sharma Aman , Naga Bhooshanam N , Vinayagam Mohanavel , M Ravichandran , A. Alotaibi Majed
Published: February 2025

Solar energy has the potential to be used for energy applications. However, its thermal performance can be affected by weather conditions, changes in solar radiation, and cloudy days. This study aims to resolve the mentioned disagreement and improve the solar thermal performance of flat plate solar collectors (FPC) that use beeswax phase change material and a hybrid nanofluid made up of (50:50) zinc oxide (ZnO) and magnesium oxide (MgO) at a concentration of 1-3 volume, operated at 2 litres per minute (LPM). The different volume concentrations include hybrid nanofluid (ZnO/MgO) at 1 vol%, PCM mixed with hybrid nanofluid (ZnO/MgO) at 2 vol%, and PCM combined with hybrid nanofluid (ZnO/MgO) at 3 vol%. The hybrid nanofluid that results has an improved heat transfer rate, reduced heat loss, greater latent heat storage, and better thermal and exergy efficiency than water. The hybrid nanofluid (ZnO/MgO) at a concentration of 3 vol% has the highest thermal conductivity, reaching around 0.93 W/mK. It also has an outlet temperature of 91.5°C, a heat transfer rate of approximately 398.4 W, and a latent heat storage capacity of about 389.1 KJ/kg. Additionally, the typical thermal efficiency is around 68.6%, while the average exergy efficiency is about 30.1%.
STT3B promotes porcine epidemic diarrhea virus replication by regulating N-glycosylation of PEDV S protein
Authors: Zhu Huixin , Lou Jinxiu , Yang Zhen , Bai Juan , Jiang Ping , Wang Xianwei , Liu Xing
Published: February 2025

Porcine epidemic diarrhea virus (PEDV), a highly pathogenic enteric coronavirus, has caused significant economic losses worldwide in recent years. The PEDV spike (S) protein has been reported to undergo extensive N-glycosylation, suggesting that glycosylation plays a crucial role in PEDV replication. In this study, we demonstrated that the N-glycosylation pathway promotes PEDV replication by facilitating the glycosylation of the S protein. First, we observed that pharmacological inhibition of host N-glycosylation using specific inhibitors significantly reduces viral replication. Furthermore, genetic ablation of STT3A or STT3B, the catalytically active subunits of the oligosaccharyltransferase (OST) complex, revealed that the STT3B-OST complex, but not STT3A, is preferentially required for PEDV replication. Notably, we showed that the N-glycosylation of the PEDV S protein depends on the oligosaccharyltransferase activity of STT3B. Together, the study demonstrated the critical role of the N-glycosylation pathway in PEDV replication by elucidating the relationship between the N-glycosylation of the PEDV S protein and STT3B, thereby presenting a potential new target for the prevention and control of PEDV.

IMPORTANCE

The highly N-glycosylated spike protein of porcine epidemic diarrhea virus (PEDV) is a multifunctional protein that plays a crucial role in the viral replication cycle. In this study, using pharmacological inhibitors, we demonstrated the importance of the N-glycosylation pathway in PEDV replication. Genetic analysis revealed that STT3B, one of the catalytically active subunits of the oligosaccharyltransferase complex, promotes viral proliferation by regulating the N-glycosylation of the PEDV spike protein. Our findings enhance the understanding of the role of the N-glycosylation pathway in viral infection and identify STT3B as a potential therapeutic target for controlling PEDV infection.