bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nutritional Anemia Reductions Due to Food Fortification Among Women of Childbearing Age: A Literature Review and Bayesian Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Dorbu Andrea D. , Waddel Hannah B. , Chadha Manpreet K. , de Romaña Daniel López , Arabi Mandana , Moore Reneé H. , Mehta Christina , Pachón Helena
Published: February 2025

Food fortification can deliver essential micronutrients to populations at a large scale, thereby reducing nutritional anemia. This study aimed to review and meta‐analyze the literature on the impact of wheat flour, maize flour, rice, and oil (singly or combined) fortification on women's (10–49 years) hemoglobin and anemia. A search of 17 databases yielded 2284 results. Longitudinal, pre‐post cross‐sectional, efficacy, and effectiveness studies were included. Primary outcomes were changes in hemoglobin concentration and anemia prevalence. Studies were synthesized using arm‐based network meta‐analysis. In women who consumed fortified rice, hemoglobin mean change was 3.24 g/L (95% credibility interval (CrI) 0.9, 5.98), higher than for women in the control, with a 99.1% probability that the true mean difference was > 0. Hemoglobin was 2.08 g/L (95% CrI −0.76, 4.35) higher in women who consumed wheat flour versus control, with a 93.5% probability that the true mean difference was > 0. After rice fortification, anemia prevalence in women was 1.38 percentage points (95% CrI −106.6, 99.2) lower than for control women, with a 51.2% probability that the true mean difference was < 0. Wheat flour fortification decreased anemia prevalence by 1.84 percentage points (95% CrI −93.4, 92.4) with a 52.72% probability that the true mean difference was < 0. The treatment effects of fortified maize flour and fortified oil could not be calculated due to the absence of control arms compared to the intervention arms. Fortified rice and wheat flour appear likely to modestly increase hemoglobin and may also reduce anemia in women of childbearing age.
The Therapeutic and Preventive Effects of Light‐Emitting Diode (LED) for Post‐Inflammatory Erythema and Hyperpigmentation: A Pilot Study
Authors: Dan Yanjun , Chen Li , Jin Shanglin , Zhang Jingtao , Zhu Yijian , Ma Wenjuan , Liu Ziqi , Luo Jianfeng , Zhang Chengfeng , Xiang Leihong Flora
Published: February 2025

Background/Purpose

Photobiomodulation (PBM) using light‐emitting diodes (LEDs) benefits tissue regeneration and wound healing. However, evidence regarding the efficacy of LED for post‐inflammatory erythema (PIE) and post‐inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) is limited. The aim of this study was to explore the effect of medical LED (830 nm and 590 nm) in the prevention and treatment of PIE and PIH.

Methods

The in vivo PIE/PIH model was simplified to erythema and pigmentation reaction after acute UVB exposure. 308 nm LED light (225 or 270 mJ/cm2) was induced in vivo in the PIE/PIH model on the thigh of ten healthy subjects. Every subject received therapeutic and preventive irradiation (n = 10 in each group). 830 nm (60 J/cm2) and 590 nm LEDs (20 J/cm2) were irradiated, respectively. For therapeutic irradiation, the PIE/PIH model was induced on D1, and LEDs were irradiated on D0, 1, 3, 6 and 8. For preventive irradiation, LEDs were irradiated on D0, 1, 3, 6, and 8 and the PIE/PIH model was induced on D9. Erythema index (EI), melanin index (MI), transdermal water loss (TEWL), and C‐Cube photography were measured during 10‐day follow‐up visits.

Results

For therapeutic irradiation, ΔEI and ΔMI in the 830 nm treatment group were significantly lower than in the control group (ΔEI: 9.30 vs. 11.52, p = 0.027; ΔMI: 7.79 vs. 9.25, p = 0.026). No significant difference was found between the 590 nm treatment group and the control group in ΔEI or ∆MI (p > 0.05). For preventive irradiation, ΔEI in the 830 nm prevention group and the 590 nm prevention group were both significantly lower than the control group (830 nm: 9.85 vs. 19.90, p = 0.001; 590 nm: 12.50 vs. 19.90, p = 0.008). No significant difference was found between the two prevention LED groups (p > 0.05).

Conclusions

Both 830 nm and 590 nm LEDs showed preventive effects for PIE, and 830 nm LEDs could effectively improve PIE and PIH.
Mitigation of salinity stress in salt‐sensitive rice seedlings via phytohormone synthesis, antioxidant defence enhancement, and ion balance regulation induced by 5‐aminolevulinic acid‐producing purple non‐sulfur bacteria
Authors: Sundar L. S. , Wu J.‐Y. , Tu Y.‐K. , Chen H.‐W. , Chao Y.‐Y.
Published: February 2025

Salt stress, intensified by climate change, is a significant threat to rice production, a vital staple for over half the world's population. This makes addressing salt stress in rice cultivation a pressing issue.

This study investigates the role of PNSB as a biostimulant in enhancing salinity tolerance of salt‐sensitive rice seedlings, addressing existing gaps in knowledge on physiological and biochemical impacts under saline stress. We inoculated salt‐sensitive rice seedlings with PNSB under 80 mmol NaCl stress in a controlled environment. After a 5‐day treatment, we conducted biochemical and physiological analyses.

Salinity stress induced oxidative stress in salt‐sensitive rice seedlings. However, application of 5‐ALA‐producing PNSB mitigated stress, elevated 5‐ALA in shoots by 23%, roots by 190.5%, and chlorophyll content by 105.0%. PNSB treatment also reduced superoxide radicals (O2•−) and H2O2 by 26.7% and 38.7%, respectively, related to increased activity of the antioxidant enzymes, SOD (142.9%) and APX (41.8%). This led to lower electrolyte leakage (25.2%) and MDA (17.4%), indicating reduced ROS. Additionally, proline and soluble sugar content decreased by 29.2% and 72.5%, respectively. PNSB treatment also reduced sodium to potassium ion content in both shoots (31.2%) and roots (27.4%) of salt‐stressed rice seedlings.

These findings suggest that PNSB may facilitate nutrient solubilization and ion balance, thereby mitigating the adverse effects of salinity, with potential implications for sustainable agricultural practices to improve crop yield in saline environments. Future research should focus on elucidating the specific biochemical pathways involved in PNSB‐mediated stress tolerance and exploring their application across diverse crop species and varying stress conditions.
The Appropriation of Native American Culture for Sports Logos, Mascots, and Nicknames
Authors: Williams Dana M.
Published: February 2025

Native American imagery and symbols—as logos, mascots, and nicknames—have been commonplace in American sports since the early‐twentieth century. This review presents scholarship on this practice at the intersection between the sociology of sports, race/ethnicity, higher education, politics, and social movements, as well as other relevant social sciences. Scholarship has emphasized this imagery's social origins, public opinion, social psychology, and socio‐political trends in the conflict over and often elimination of such symbols. As a disproportionately American practice, Indigenous imagery in sports is linked to the history of settler‐colonialism, racialization, and corporate capitalism, and is found throughout all levels of sports (high schools, colleges and universities, and professional). After the US West's frontier closure, and during the height of Jim Crow and racial lynchings, many educational institutions adopted Indigenous imagery—motivated by a masculinity crisis and American myth‐making as a settler‐colonialist society. Sociological scholarship has used many methodological approaches, but has emphasized public opinion of the practice, using surveys to predict support for symbols, comparing racial differences, and criticizing how some surveys purportedly offer “support” to the practice via unreliable, non‐representative survey techniques. Social psychological studies has explored both the motivations for support and the consequences for the practice, giving particular attention to the impact on Indigenous people (especially Indigenous youth's self‐esteem), in contrast to evidence of improved white self‐efficacy. The long‐standing conflicts generated by the practice date back to the 1960s with the National Congress of American Indians and 1970s’ “red power” movements, specifically the American Indian Movement. These conflicts have pitted institutional actors (e.g., school administrators and team owners) and sports fans against movements for Indigenous autonomy and anti‐racism. Conflicts have involved widespread resistance from sports fans and alumni, against various waves of racial justice mobilizations. Decolonization efforts have aimed to achieve Indigenous self‐determination, the right to evade psychological disparagement in the face of both physical and cultural genocide, and to instead be empowered by ownership of their own cultural identity. While most universities and some professional sports teams have ended this practice, many have not—especially at the primary and secondary education levels. Thus, this research continues to occur within an active period of changing practices, and aims to respond to both evolving conditions and new scholarly questions.
The LINC complex in blood vessels: from physiology to pathological implications in arterioles
Authors: Ferreira Gonzalo , Cardozo Romina , Chavarria Luisina , Santander Axel , Sobrevia Luis , Chang Wakam , Gundersen Gregg , Nicolson Garth L.
Published: February 2025

The LINC (linker of nucleoskeleton and cytoskeleton) complex is a critical component of the cellular architecture that bridges the nucleoskeleton and cytoskeleton and mediates mechanotransduction to and from the nucleus. Though it plays important roles in all blood vessels, it is in arterioles that this complex plays a pivotal role in maintaining endothelial cell integrity, regulating vascular tone, forming new microvessels and modulating responses to mechanical and biochemical stimuli. It is also important in vascular smooth muscle cells and fibroblasts, where it possibly plays a role in the contractile to secretory phenotypic transformation during atherosclerosis and vascular ageing, and in fibroblasts' migration and inflammatory responses in the adventitia. Physiologically, the LINC complex contributes to the stability of arteriolar structure, adaptations to changes in blood flow and injury repair mechanisms. Pathologically, dysregulation or mutations in LINC complex components can lead to compromised endothelial function, vascular remodelling and exacerbation of cardiovascular diseases such as atherosclerosis (arteriolosclerosis). This review summarizes our current understanding of the roles of the LINC complex in cells from arterioles, highlighting its most important physiological functions, exploring its implications for vascular pathology and emphasizing some of its functional characteristics in endothelial cells. By elucidating the LINC complex's role in health and disease, we aim to provide insights that could improve future therapeutic strategies targeting LINC complex‐related vascular disorders.

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Physiological mechanisms of neuromuscular impairment in diabetes‐related complications: Can physical exercise help prevent it?
Authors: Lecce Edoardo , Bellini Alessio , Greco Giuseppe , Martire Fiorella , Scotto di Palumbo Alessandro , Sacchetti Massimo , Bazzucchi Ilenia
Published: February 2025

Diabetes mellitus is a chronic disorder that progressively induces complications, compromising daily independence. Among these, diabetic neuropathy is particularly prevalent and contributes to substantial neuromuscular impairments in both types 1 and 2 diabetes. This condition leads to structural damage affecting both the central and peripheral nervous systems, resulting in a significant decline in sensorimotor functions. Alongside neuropathy, diabetic myopathy also contributes to muscle impairment and reduced motor performance, intensifying the neuromuscular decline. Diabetic neuropathy typically implicates neurogenic muscle atrophy, motoneuron loss and clustering of muscle fibres as a result of aberrant denervation‐reinervation processes. These complications are associated with compromised neuromuscular junctions, where alterations occur in pre‐synaptic vesicles, mitochondrial content and post‐synaptic signalling. Neural damage is intensified by chronic hyperglycaemia and oxidative stress, exacerbating vascular dysfunction and reducing oxygen delivery. These complications imply a severe decline in neuromuscular performance, evidenced by reductions in maximal force and power output, rate of force development and muscle endurance. Furthermore, diabetes‐related complications are compounded by age‐related degenerative changes in long‐term patients. Aerobic and resistance training offer promising approaches for managing blood glucose levels and neuromuscular function. Aerobic exercise promotes mitochondrial biogenesis and angiogenesis, supporting metabolic and cardiovascular health. Resistance training primarily enhances neural plasticity, muscle strength and hypertrophy, which are crucial factors for mitigating sarcopenia and preserving functional independence. This topical review examines current evidence on the physiological mechanisms underlying diabetic neuropathy and the potential impact of physical activity in counteracting this decline.

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Tribological Evaluation of Coatings in Fuel Environments
Authors: Macknojia Ali , Dockins Maddox , Ayyagari Aditya , Montoya Vanessa , Rodriguez James , Cairns Euan , Murthy Nikhil , Berkebile Stephen , Voevodin Andrey , Aouadi Samir , Berman Diana
Published: February 2025

To enhance the durability and reliability of high-pressure fuel system components operating with low-viscosity fuels, an analysis of the tribological performance of potential coating material candidates was conducted. This study focuses on evaluating the friction and wear characteristics of various coatings widely used by industry for surface protection, including carbides, nitrides, diamond-like carbon (DLC), and solid lubricants, under accelerated reciprocating ball on flat conditions intended to provide information on longer-term operation in fuel pumps. The tribological performance of these coatings in fuels of varying chemistry and viscosity, including ethanol, decane, dodecane, and aviation fuel (F-24), was compared to the mechanical properties of materials, such as hardness and elastic modulus. Results indicate that carbides show the lowest friction and wear values across different fuel environments. CrN-based coatings demonstrate a decrease in friction and wear in comparison to other nitrides. This comprehensive investigation lays the groundwork for informed design decisions in developing high-performance coatings tailored to withstand the challenges of low-viscosity fuel environments.
On the Effect of Grading Elastic Modulus in Frictional Line Contacts
Authors: Ciavarella Michele , Willert Emanuel
Published: February 2025

We study the effect of elastic material grading close to the surface in line contacts with friction on internal stresses, particularly to quantify the reduction of tensile principal stresses due to grading. We observe that for the classical indentation by a parabolic indenter and power-law material grading, tensile stresses are reduced, but both dilatational and deviatoric strain energy are increased, which points to a possible decrease of strength at the surface. We then move to the more realistic case of exponential grading, for a sinusoidal form of pressure and shear traction, which is taken as representative of a wide class of contact conditions. We observe that tensile stresses can be removed completely if friction is not too high and Poisson's ratio is not too low, but anyway, the effect is likely to be sufficiently strong to remove surface cracks. Dilatational strain energy is also decreased for this type of functional elastic grading, while deviatoric strain energy is not increased much at the surface. We thus confirm in a more general way than previously known the possible advantages of using functional elastic grading to increase resistance to contact loading and provide a general set of results to quantify this for engineering purposes.
Photoluminescence lifetime of perovskites on modified substrates
Authors: Vorhies Xavier , Andriolo Jessica M. , Thiebes Joseph J. , Orcutt Emma K. , Grumstrup Erik M. , Skinner Jack L.
Published: February 2025

Lead halide perovskites have gained attention for their potential in optoelectronic applications, including photovoltaics and light-emitting devices, due to their remarkable optical and electronic properties. However, performance of these materials is highly dependent on morphological properties of the underlying substrates. In this study, the effects of substrate modifications on the photoluminescence lifetimes of CsPbBr₃ perovskites deposited on TiO2 substrates that were annealed at various temperatures were investigated. TiO2 substrates were characterized using glancing-angle x-ray diffraction and spectroscopic ellipsometry to assess changes in crystallinity and surface roughness. Time-correlated single photon counting spectroscopy was employed to measure the photoluminescent lifetimes of the perovskites. Scanning electron microscopy and x-ray diffraction were used to determine morphology and crystallinity. Results show a clear relationship between substrate annealing temperature and the photoluminescent lifetime of perovskite microcrystals. Substrates annealed at temperatures below 300 °C exhibited increased surface roughness with increased annealing temperature (22.4 Ȧ at room temperature and 48.05 Ȧ at 300 °C) and correspondingly shorter photoluminescent lifetimes (3.5 ns at room temperature and 0.4 ns at 300 °C) suggesting more rapid charge carrier recombination. In contrast, substrates annealed at 350 °C exhibited the longest lifetimes at 4.19 ns indicating a decrease in trap-mediated nonradiative recombination. Substrates annealed at 400 °C showed a further increase in crystallinity but did not extend the lifetime beyond that seen at 350 °C, suggesting an optimal balance between surface roughness and crystallization. These findings provide insights into the role of morphological substrate modifications in optimizing the optoelectronic properties of perovskite materials.
Focus realization in Albanian: The role of prosody and utterance position
Authors: Kapia Enkeleida , Kleber Felicitas , Harrington Jonathan , Gubian Michele
Published: February 2025

This study investigates the realization of narrow and broad focus in Albanian, an understudied language. Production and perception data were analyzed for narrow and broad focus. Speakers were found to produce broad focus with a low f0-trough (L*) and narrow focus with a high f0-peak (L + H*) in both final and initial positions. Listeners preferred L + H* stimuli for narrow focus in initial position regardless of whether they heard a narrow or a broad focus question. These findings show that focus marking in Albanian is influenced more by position than prosodic cues.
Scaling laws for nonlinear dynamical models of articulatory control
Authors: Kirkham Sam
Published: February 2025

Dynamical theories of speech use computational models of articulatory control to generate quantitative predictions and advance understanding of speech dynamics. The addition of a nonlinear restoring force to task dynamic models is a significant improvement over linear models, but nonlinearity introduces challenges with parameterization and interpretability. We illustrate these problems through numerical simulations and introduce solutions in the form of scaling laws. We apply the scaling laws to a cubic model and show how they facilitate interpretable simulations of articulatory dynamics and can be theoretically interpreted as imposing physical and cognitive constraints on models of speech movement dynamics.
REVIEWS OF ACOUSTICAL PATENTS
Authors: Fulop Sean A.
Published: February 2025

The purpose of these acoustical patent reviews is to provide enough information for a Journal reader to decide whether to seek more information from the patent itself. Any opinions expressed here are those of the reviewers as individuals and are not legal opinions. Patents are available via the internet at http://www.uspto.gov.
Measuring phase difference to sense small-scale ocean sound-speed structure
Authors: DeFilippis Jacob P. , Cornuelle Bruce D. , Lucas Andrew J. , Hodgkiss W. S. , Kuperman W. A.
Published: February 2025

Observations from a broadband acoustic experiment in deep water probe the temporal behavior of mid-frequency propagation through sound-speed fine structure advected by internal waves. The measured phases of two arrivals with similar propagation paths at 1.8 km range are sampled every 63.5 ms for 30 min. Simultaneous measurements of ocean fine structure near the propagation are used to model the changing arrival phase. The phase difference between arrivals is analyzed to understand changes in the underwater acoustic channel at the meter scale. A comparison between modeled and observed phase difference highlights an internal wave driven signal in the acoustic observations.
Phase of the seabed frequency-domain reflection coefficient: Measurements and modeling
Authors: Holland Charles W.
Published: February 2025

The phase of the seabed frequency-domain reflection coefficient potentially contains valuable information on the geoacoustic properties in a layered/refracting seabed. However, heretofore, the phase has not been exploited. Measurements of phase are presented in an area of thick mud at the New England Mud Patch. In addition, a model is presented along with the modeling results. While this is only a first step towards understanding the potential value of exploiting the phase, it seems clear that in some instances, the phase not only contains valuable geoacoustic information, but carries a higher information content than the magnitude.
Wind-driven ambient noise characteristics in the Western Canadian arctic
Authors: Shajahan Najeem , Halliday William D. , Barclay David R. , Melling Humfrey , Neimi Andrea , Insley Stephen J.
Published: February 2025

An analysis of ambient noise data collected from seven locations in the western Canadian Arctic at varying depths (30–350 m) during ice-free seasons over a period of five years (2018–2022) has been conducted. The measured noise level correlates well with wind speed after the removal of contaminated (sources other than wind) noise data. The characteristics of wind noise are predicted by fitting a multi-parameter empirical model to data. Results from the model are compared with existing empirical wind noise models and validated using data collected from one of the measurement locations.
Investigating the Influence of Perceived Teaching and Environmental Appraisals on Emotions and Perceived Marginality of Physical Educators
Authors: Simonton Kelly L. , Gaudreault Karen L. , Olive Caitlin , Vasquez Martin , Fullerton Sean
Published: February 2025

Purpose: As part of a larger project, the purpose of this study was to investigate teacher appraisals about their teaching and environment and its influence on their emotions and perceived marginality. Method: Physical educators (N = 30; n = 17 females; n = 13 males) participated in an interview grounded in Ecological Dynamics System Theory. Results: Data revealed four themes: (a) students elicit polarizing emotional responses, (b) administrators significantly influence teacher emotion and perceived marginality, (c) advocacy efforts can mitigate anger and anxiety, and (d) high-quality physical education teacher education and discipline specific professional development can enhance positive emotions. Teacher appraisals of their ability and school status influence how they feel and the degree of influence marginality has on them. Discussion/Conclusion: An interconnection exists between teacher emotions and how one may overcome marginality. Suggestions are provided for how appraisals can support future training and professional development.
Double carbapenemases in
Klebsiella pneumoniae
blood isolates: dissemination in a single medical center via multiple plasmids and a variety of highly efficient clones
Authors: Rigatou Anastasia , Afolayan Ayorinde O. , Tatsi Elizabeth-Barbara , Deliolanis Ioannis , Michos Athanasios , Reuter Sandra , Daikos George L.
Published: February 2025

Acquisition of multiple carbapenemase genes by
Klebsiella pneumoniae
(Kp) is an emerging public health threat. Here, we aim to elucidate the population structure of Kp blood isolates carrying two different carbapenemase genes and identify the mechanism facilitating their dissemination. The study was conducted in a tertiary healthcare center between 2014 and 2022. Twenty-four patients with bacteremia caused by Kp carrying two different carbapenemase genes were identified. All 24 blood isolates were analyzed by short-read genome sequences supplemented by long reads in a selected number of isolates. All isolates carried
bla
KPC
(23
bla
KPC-2
, 1
bla
KPC-3
) and
bla
VIM-1
genes, along with a variety of antimicrobial resistance determinants. The isolates were clustered in six clonal lineages (ST39, ST147, ST323, ST258, ST3035, and ST340). Long-read genome sequences demonstrated that each carbapenemase gene was located in a separate group of plasmids: the
bla
KPC-2
on a fusion of IncFIB(pQil) and IncFII(K) plasmids, the
bla
KPC-3
on IncX3, the
bla
VIM-1
on IncC, or a fusion of the IncFIB(pNDM-Mar) and IncHI1B(pNDM-MAR) plasmids. Comparison of plasmid content of eight isolates carrying a single carbapenemase gene from a previous study with eight isolates carrying two carbapenemase genes from the present study, matched by clonal lineages, revealed that the second carbapenemase gene was acquired by addition of another plasmid. Identical plasmids were found within the same lineage and across lineages. These findings suggest that dissemination of carbapenemase genes in our hospital setting was driven by multiple plasmids across a variety of highly efficient clones.
HSV-1 virions and related particles: biogenesis and implications in the infection
Authors: Kalamvoki Maria
Published: February 2025

Virion formation and egress are sophisticated processes that rely on the spatial and temporal organization of host cell membranes and the manipulation of host machineries involved in protein sorting, membrane bending, fusion, and fission. These processes result in the formation of infectious virions, defective particles, and various vesicle-like structures. In herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1) infections, virions and capsid-less particles, known as light (L)-particles, are formed. HSV-1 infection also stimulates the release of particles that resemble extracellular vesicles (EVs). In productively infected cells, most EVs are generated through the CD63 tetraspanin biogenesis pathway and lack viral components. A smaller subset of EVs, generated through the endosomal sorting complexes required for transport (ESCRT) pathway, contains both viral and host factors. Viral mechanisms tightly regulate EV biogenesis, including the inhibition of autophagy—a process critical for increased production of CD63+ EVs during HSV-1 infection. Mutant viruses that fail to suppress autophagy instead promote microvesicle production from the plasma membrane. Additionally, the viral protein ICP0 (Infected Cell Protein 0) enhances EV biogenesis during HSV-1 infection. The different types of particles can be separated by density gradients due to their distinct biophysical properties. L-particles and ESCRT+ EVs display a pro-viral role, supporting viral replication, whereas CD63+ EVs exhibit antiviral effects. Overall, these studies highlight that HSV-1 infection yields numerous and diverse particles, with their type and composition shaped by the ability of the virus to evade host responses. These particles likely shape the infectious microenvironment and determine disease outcomes.
Draft genome for the horse hair fungus,
Marasmius crinis-equi
, isolated from cacao in Ghana
Authors: Cohen Stephen P. , Kakati Indrani , Amoako-Attah Ishmael , Bukari Yahaya , Bailey Bryan A. , Meinhardt Lyndel W.
Published: February 2025

Marasmius crinis-equi
, known as the horse hair fungus, is a litter-decomposing fungus that is opportunistically pathogenic on various plants. We sequenced the genome of
M. crinis-equi
strain GH-76 isolated from thread blight disease-infected cacao leaves in Ghana. The genome is 72.8 Mbp in size and 91.2% complete via benchmarking universal single-copy orthologs (BUSCO).
Ultra-high temperatures recorded in parental magmas from hybrid zones
Authors: Rodríguez Carmen , Pereira Manuel Francisco , Martí Joan , Bach Núria , Scahmuells Noah
Published: February 2025

Hybrid zones commonly occur at the contact between different magmatic facies of the same batholith and/or in contact with the host rock. Fine-grained textures recorded in hybrid zones respond to quenching processes. The compositions of these fine-grained rocks are intermediate and are very close to the silica gap, typically found in calc-alkaline systems. Here, we use examples from the Axial Pyrenean Zone to distinguish types of hybrid zones and examine the potential interest in studying them.

This study presents new whole-rock geochemistry, mineral chemistry, Rb-Sr and Sm-Nd isotopic data (whole-rock), and geochronological data from magmatic rocks of two plutonic complexes of the Axial Pyrenean Zone (NE Spain). Pennsylvanian calc-alkaline coarse- to fine-grained mafic-intermediate plutonic rocks, including sanukitoid series, intruded the Axial Pyrenean Zone host rocks at ca. 305.8 ± 1.6 Ma (Lys-Caillaouas gabbro), 304 ± 1.7 Ma, and 301.6 ± 1.2 Ma (La Maladeta diorite and granodiorite, respectively). Also, we reviewed the geochemical data of calc-alkaline magmatic rocks from the Pyrenees to compare them with magmas from the sanukitoid and Andean series, which allowed us to consider that they represent a mix between the two series. Petrographic and geochemical results also support that parental magmas were quenched at these hybrid zones. Near-liquidus experiments testing the parental magma composition recorded in hybrid zones shed light on the ultra-high temperatures exceeding 1000 °C for these magmas to arrive at crustal levels at near-liquidus conditions and account for the need for mantle input to generate these calc-alkaline magmas.
USA’s Oldest Rock? A Simple Question with a Complex Answer
Authors: Frost Carol , Mueller Paul , Bickford Marion , Stern Robert
Published: February 2025

Superlatives—whether tallest, longest, or fastest—are more interesting than averages. This characteristic applies to many aspects of the geosciences, where scales of time and space are beyond human experience. The deepest trench, the highest mountain, and the most expansive desert are much more interesting than average ones. Interest in superlatives also applies to the oldest rocks. In this essay, we show that the oldest rocks in the United States are 3.62–3.45 billion years old (Ga) and are found in three different states. These localities define an east-west−trending belt in the upper midcontinent that stretches ~3000 km from Wyoming through Minnesota and into the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. Complex U-Pb zircon systematics are observed in the oldest rocks from all three areas, complicating efforts to distinguish zircons that crystallized in the magma(s) that made the host rock from xenocrystic zircons incorporated by assimilating older rocks. Within these uncertainties, the oldest rock in the United States is 3.62 Ga (Eoarchean to Paleoarchean), but older, 3.8 Ga zircon-bearing felsic crust existed and may be identified by future investigations.
Early intrathecal dexamethasone (IT-Dexa) associated with faster recovery and good outcome in an adolescent with febrile infection-related epilepsy syndrome (FIRES)
Authors: Sudarsanan Krishnapriya , Sarangi Bhakti , Srivastava Kavita
Published: February 2025

A previously normal adolescent boy presented with a new-onset super refractory status epilepticus of unknown cause after a brief febrile illness—suggestive of febrile infection-related epilepsy syndrome (FIRES). Bedside continuous EEG (cEEG) showed frequent focal electrical seizures. After a poor response to pulse methylprednisolone therapy, intrathecal dexamethasone (IT-Dexa) was initiated on day 9 of the illness. Complete seizure freedom was achieved after two doses of alternate-day IT-Dexa. Later cEEG showed bilateral PLEDs with gradual return to the normal background. His modified Rankin score was 2 at discharge and 1 at 3-month follow-up, with a well-preserved cognition. Various therapies like intravenous immunoglobulin, ketogenic diet, anakinra and tocilizumab have been tried in these patients, with variable responses. Early administration of IT-Dexa in children with FIRES may be a cost-effective and potent option, especially in low-resource countries—as it reduces the duration of critical care and improves seizure and cognitive outcomes.
Statin-induced necrotising myositis with heart failure: a lesson in cautious prescribing of common drugs
Authors: Binti Jeffrey Maryam Sakinah , Whelan Bryan
Published: February 2025

Statins are widely prescribed for both the primary and secondary prevention of cardiovascular diseases. However, muscle-related side effects, including weakness, pain and myopathy, are common side effects of statins, reported in up to 5% of users. Here, we present the case of a rare but severe complication of statin use, statin-induced necrotising myositis, which manifested as severe muscle weakness, heart failure and significant morbidity. There are no standardised treatment guidelines for statin-induced myositis. Here, the patient was managed with intravenous immunoglobulin and other immunosuppressants, leading to a favourable outcome when combined with a multidisciplinary approach with physiotherapy, occupational therapy and long-term rehabilitation. Although the patient did not recover full muscle power, he manages at home with the support of walking aids and family.
Evaluation of oral cholera vaccine (Euvichol-Plus) effectiveness againstVibrio choleraein Bangladesh: an interim analysis
Authors: Khanam Farhana , Islam Md. Taufiqul , Ahmmed Faisal , Rajib Md Nazmul Hasan , Hossen Md Ismail , Chowdhury Fahima , Khan Ashraful Islam , Bhuiyan Md. Taufiqur Rahman , Haque Shahinur , Biswas Prasanta Kumar , Bhuiyan Amirul Islam , Khan Zahid Hasan , Amin Mohammad Ashraful , Rahman Aninda , Rizvi S M Shahriar , Shirin Tahmina , Islam Md Nazmul , Tiffany Amanda , Breakwell Lucy , Qadri Firdausi , Clemens John D
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Millions of Euvichol-Plus doses have been deployed from the global oral cholera vaccine stockpile in over 20 cholera-affected countries. However, information on Euvichol-Plus’s effectiveness is limited. Using this vaccine in a cholera epidemic in Dhaka, Bangladesh, provided the opportunity to evaluate the vaccine effectiveness (VE) using a test-negative design.

Methods

A two-dose regimen of Euvichol-Plus was administered to individuals aged >1 year in a population of ca. 900 000 in two campaign rounds between June and August 2022, with prospective registration of all persons who received at least one dose. We conducted systematic surveillance in two key facilities, enrolling patients with acute watery diarrhoea who were eligible for vaccination from the campaign’s start and who presented for care between 21 August 2022 and 20 August 2023. Faecal culture-positive cholera cases were matched to up to four faecal culture-negative controls by age, presentation date and facility. Vaccination status was documented without knowledge of culture results. Conditional logistic regression models estimated the OR for the vaccination-cholera association, and the VE of the two-dose regimen was calculated as [(1−OR) × 100].

Results

The analysis included 226 cases and 552 matched controls. The adjusted VE of two doses of the Euvichol-Plus vaccine against medically attended cholera was 66% (99.5% CI: 30 to 83) for all recipients. Limited protection (12%; 95% CI: −95 to 60) was observed for children aged 1–4 years; whereas, protection was 79% (95% CI: 60 to 89) for those aged ≥5 years. VE against cholera with moderate to severe dehydration was 69% (95% CI: 44 to 83) overall but 6% (95% CI: −206 to 71) for children aged 1–4 years.

Conclusion

Euvichol-Plus provided significant protection against medically attended cholera of any severity as well as cholera with moderate to severe dehydration. However, significant levels of protection were only observed for those aged ≥5 years.
Risk factors associated with human Mpox infection: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Ugwu Chigozie Louisa Jane , Bragazzi Nicola Luigi , Wu Jianhong , Kong Jude Dzevela , Asgary Ali , Orbinski James , Woldegerima Woldegebriel Assefa
Published: February 2025

Background

Mpox emerged as a significant global public health concern during the 2022–2023 outbreak, impacting populations in both endemic and non-endemic countries. This study reviews and synthesises evidence on the risk factors associated with human Mpox transmission across these regions.

Methods

A systematic search of peer-reviewed original studies was conducted across Scopus, Embase, Web of Science and PubMed databases, covering publications up to 31 March 2024. The review followed Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses. Two authors independently screened the articles by title, abstract and full text. The Newcastle–Ottawa Scale used to assess the risk of bias for included articles. Fixed- or random-effects meta-analysis was conducted when at least two studies reported ORs or relative risks, with 95% CIs. Heterogeneity was assessed using theI2statistic. This study was registered on PROSPERO (ID:CRD42023459895).

Results

The systematic review identified 947 articles through database searches, of which 31 met our inclusion criteria. The meta-analysis revealed significant risk factors associated with Mpox infection. Interaction with infected animals (OR=5.61, 95% CI 2.83, 11.13), HIV infection (OR=4.46, 95% CI 3.27, 6.08), other sexually transmitted infections (OR=1.76, 95% CI 1.42, 2.19), unprotected sexual activities (OR=1.53, 95% CI 1.13, 2.07), contact with an infected person (OR=2.39, 95% CI 1.87, 3.05), identification as men who have sex with men (OR=2.18, 95% CI 1.88, 2.51) and having multiple sexual partners (OR=1.61, 95% CI 1.24, 2.09) were associated with increased Mpox infection risk. Conversely, smallpox vaccination was associated with a significantly reduced risk of Mpox infection (OR=0.24, 95% CI 0.11, 0.55).

Conclusion

Identification of risk factors associated with Mpox provides insights for strategic public health planning, enabling targeted interventions for high-risk groups and optimising resource allocation to strengthen Mpox control efforts.
Association between poor oral health and deterioration of appetite in older age: results from longitudinal analyses of two prospective cohorts from the UK and USA
Authors: Ganbavale Suruchi G , Cai Ziyi , Mathers John C , Papacosta Olia , Lennon Lucy , Whincup Peter H , Weyant Robert , Wannamethee S Goya , Ramsay Sheena E
Published: February 2025

Objective

This study investigated the association of poor oral health with appetite loss and deterioration in appetite longitudinally in older adults.

Design

Cross-sectional and longitudinal observational study.

Setting

Data came from two population-based cohorts of older adults from the UK and USA.

Participants

The British Regional Heart Study (BRHS) included men (n=1348, age=79–87 years in 2016–2017 at baseline and 81–89 years in 2018–2019 at follow-up). The US Health, Aging and Body Composition (HABC) Study included men and women (n=2998, age=71–77 years in 1998–1999 at baseline and 73–79 years in 2000–2001 at follow-up). Objective and self-reported oral health measures were collected.

Outcome measures

Loss of appetite, at baseline and 2-year follow-up, was based on the Simplified Nutrition Assessment Questionnaire in the BRHS and self-reported appetite loss in the HABC Study. In the BRHS, changes in oral health over time were also assessed. Logistic regression models were adjusted for sociodemographic, behavioural and health-related factors.

Results

Cross-sectionally, poor self-rated oral health, dry mouth, eating or chewing difficulty, food avoidance and cumulative oral health problems were associated with appetite loss in both studies. Longitudinally, in the BRHS, dry mouth (OR=2.12 (95% CI=1.40 to 3.20)), eating or chewing difficulty (OR=1.59 (95% CI=1.02 to 2.48)), food avoidance (OR=1.75 (95% CI=1.16 to 2.65)) and cumulative oral health problems (OR=2.84 (95% CI=1.80 to 4.50)) at baseline were associated with sustained poor/deterioration in appetite over the follow-up, after full adjustment. In the HABC Study, self-rated oral health ((OR=1.13 (95% CI=1.01 to 1.27)), tooth loss (OR=1.78 (95% CI=1.15 to 2.76)), dry mouth (OR=1.76 (95% CI=1.02 to 3.03)), eating or chewing difficulty (OR=1.88 (95% CI=1.41 to 2.50)) and cumulative oral health problems (OR=1.89 (95% CI=1.33 to 2.70)) at baseline were associated with sustained poor/deterioration in appetite during follow-up. In the BRHS, sustained poor/deterioration in oral health markers (self-rated oral health, dry mouth, eating or chewing difficulty, food avoidance, loose denture/s) over the follow-up were associated with sustained poor/deterioration of appetite.

Conclusion

Oral health is a potentially important contributor to maintaining good appetite in older age.
How do doctors manage physical activity advocacy for patients and their own self-care? A qualitative interview study of general practitioners in Ireland
Authors: Baky Ibak , Bourke Alison , Byrne Conor , MacDonagh Joe , Clifford Amanda , Niranjan Vikram , O'Regan Andrew
Published: February 2025

Objectives

This study explored general practitioners’ (GPs) understanding of physical activity advocacy to patients and their own self-care, how GPs perceive their own physical activity behaviours, how their personal experience of physical activity affects how they promote it in practice and how they define the limitations of their role in this.

Design

A qualitative design, involving online semi-structured interviews, was employed. Data was analysed by an interdisciplinary team of researchers using an inductive thematic approach.

Setting and participants

Participants were GPs (n=21) and were recruited from an education and research network.

Findings

A single meta-theme was identified—moving towards more physically active lifestyles through the art of medicine—with three related subthemes. Subthemes relate to how GPs determine the extent of their role and responsibilities, how physical activity promotion is adapted to the context and how ‘what I’ say is not necessarily ‘what I do’. After many consultations, mutual trust can develop when the GP’s role is clarified, and the GP can educate and support the initiation and maintenance of physical activity behavioural change by sharing personal experiences of physical activity behaviour.

Conclusion

Based on personal experience and enduring relationships with their patients, GPs are in a unique position to discuss appropriate physical activity with their patients and perform an important role in explaining and gaining access to physical activity for their patients. Support in the form of community-based resources and programmes as well as brief intervention skills could enhance GP ability to further promote physical activity.
Exploring how PRIME-Parkinson care is implemented and whether, how and why it produces change, for who and under what conditions: a protocol for an embedded process evaluation within the PRIME-UK randomised controlled trial
Authors: Lloyd Katherine , Tenison Emma , Smith Safi , Lithander Fiona , Kidger Judi , Brant Heather , Redwood Sabi , Ben-Shlomo Yoav , Henderson Emily J
Published: February 2025

Introduction

The PRIME-UK randomised controlled trial (RCT) aims to establish whether a model of care that seeks to be proactive, integrated and empower participants, caregivers and healthcare professionals can improve outcomes in people with parkinsonism. Given that this intervention is novel and complex, understanding whether and how the intervention will be acceptable, implementable, cost-effective and scalable across contexts are key questions beyond that of whether ‘it works’. We describe an embedded process evaluation to answer these questions, which aims to support interpretation of the trial results, refinement of the intervention and support future scaling of the PRIME-Parkinson model of care.

Methods and analysis

A mixed-methods approach will be used to collect data across four process evaluation domains: implementation, mechanism of change, acceptability and context. Quantitative data will be collected prospectively from all participants and analysed descriptively with exploratory tests of relationships as power allows. Qualitative data will be collected through semistructured interviews with a purposively sampled subpopulation of participants, caregivers and staff members as well as case studies where relevant. Interview transcripts will be analysed thematically using interpretive qualitative analysis. Synthesis of quantitative and qualitative data will also be performed to draw conclusions.

Ethics and dissemination

The quantitative data will be collected as part of the main PRIME-UK RCT which was been granted NHS REC approval (21/LO/0387) on 27 July 2021. The qualitative data will be collected as part of a substudy, ‘PRIME-Qual’, which was granted NHS REC approval (21/LO/0388) on 14 July 2021. The mixed-methods process evaluation will be published after the conclusion of the trial in addition to the main trial findings.

Trial registration number

NCT05127057.
Developing a core outcome set for assessing interventions and care for parents after neonatal death in high-income countries (iCHOOSE Neonatal study): protocol for a mixed-methods study
Authors: Davies Anna , Williams Charlotte , Burden Christy , Mullin Sadie , Moy Lucy , Redshaw Maggie , Patel Mehali , Fraser Abigail , Hinton Lisa , Lynch Mary , Merriel Abi , Siasakos Dimitris , Webbe James , Odd David , Timlin Laura , Watts Leanne , Bakhbakhi Danya
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Neonatal death exerts long-lasting impact on parents’ mental health, finances and relationships, and the wider family. There is national and international momentum to evaluate interventions to support parents after the death of a baby. Core Outcome Sets (COSs) provide a minimum set of outcomes, agreed by stakeholders to be important, which should be evaluated in all studies to support evidence syntheses and identification of the most effective interventions. We aim to develop a COS for assessing interventions and care after neonatal death in high-income countries, to support future evidence syntheses and enable the identification of effective interventions and care for parents.

Methods and analysis

We will develop the COS in six phases. A parent involvement group and stakeholder steering committee have been established and have informed each planned phase: (1) systematic review of quantitative studies evaluating care and interventions provided after neonatal death, to describe interventions, outcomes and outcome measurement tools used to assess intervention effectiveness; (2) qualitative interviews with parents who have experienced neonatal death to identify outcomes important and relevant to them; (3) think-aloud interviews with stakeholders (bereaved parents, healthcare professionals and other stakeholders) to develop and refine an online survey; (4) real-time online international Delphi survey with bereaved parents, healthcare professionals and other stakeholders to shortlist outcomes for consideration in the COS; (5) adapted nominal group online consensus meetings with parents, healthcare professionals and other stakeholders to agree final COS and (6) identification of a preliminary set of measurement tools.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical approval has been granted for all activities to be undertaken by the University of Bristol Health Sciences Faculty Research Ethics Committee (reference: 15121). We will disseminate the findings via peer-reviewed publications and relevant academic and professional conferences.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42020151365.