bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
KEAP1 retention in phase-separated p62 bodies drives liver damage in autophagy-deficient conditions
Authors: Takada Shuhei , Shinomiya Nozomi , Mao Gaoxin , Tsuchiya Hikaru , Koga Tomoaki , Komatsu-Hirota Satoko , Sou Yu-shin , Abe Manabu , Ryzhii Elena , Suzuki Michitaka , Nakao Mitsuyoshi , Waguri Satoshi , Morishita Hideaki , Komatsu Masaaki
Published: February 2025

Phase-separated p62 bodies activate NRF2, a key transcription factor for antioxidant response, by sequestering KEAP1, which targets NRF2 for degradation. Although p62 bodies containing KEAP1 are degraded by autophagy, they accumulate in various liver disorders. Their precise disease role remains unclear. We show that excessive KEAP1 retention in p62 bodies and NRF2 activation are major causes of liver damage when autophagy is impaired. In mice with weakened or blocked p62-KEAP1 interactions, KEAP1 retention and NRF2 activation under autophagy-deficient conditions were suppressed. Transcriptome and proteome analyses revealed that NRF2 targets upregulated by autophagy suppression normalized in p62 mutants unable to bind KEAP1. Autophagy deficiency caused organelle accumulation, especially of the ER, regardless of p62 mutation. Liver damage and hepatomegaly from autophagy suppression markedly improved in p62 mutants, particularly those with blocked KEAP1 binding. These findings highlight excessive KEAP1 retention in p62 bodies and defective organelle turnover as key drivers of liver pathology, underscoring the significance of phase separationin vivo.
No effect of partial reinforcement on fear extinction learning and memory in C57BL/6J mice
Authors: Su Chi Jiun , Fukunaga Yuichi , Penna Suzanne , Cazares Victor Alexis
Published: February 2025

Partial reinforcement schedules, wherein a conditioned stimulus (CS) is intermittently paired with an unconditioned stimulus (US) during associative learning, have been widely studied and found to affect the extinction and recall of learned behaviors. Notably, behaviors conditioned under partial (as opposed to consistent) reinforcement are more resistant to extinction, an effect known as the partial reinforcement extinction effect (PREE). The present study initially aimed to examine the effects of partial reinforcement on the acquisition and recall of fear extinction (FE) when altering the contextual environment. However, our systematic investigation of partial reinforcement using C57BL/6J mice challenges the well-established PREE within the domain of FE learning. Across multiple experimental setups altering CS duration, US intensity, and reinforcement schedules, we consistently found no significant impact of partial reinforcement on the acquisition, consolidation, or recall of FE. Mice exhibited similar patterns of extinction and spontaneous recovery of conditioned fear responses regardless of reinforcement schedule. These findings suggest that partial reinforcement during fear acquisition may not confer resistance to extinction of conditioned freezing, challenging the established understanding of the PREE and prompting a reexamination of how reinforcement schedules affect learning and memory of fear-related behaviors.
Numerical tensor method for atomic and exotic three-particle systems
Authors: Brice Kammegne Tcheugam , Melgaard Michael , Pavlidou Marilia , Cox Hazel
Published: February 2025

In this paper we derive a numerical tensor method to solve the many-body Schrödinger equation for three-particle systems. The Schrödinger equation is first represented in a canonical tensor format using a triple orthogonal Laguerre-based wave function in scaled perimetric coordinates. We demonstrate that the antisymmetry of the wave function can be explicitly included in the tensor method formulation by coupling the indices associated with the coordinates representing the identical fermions, e.g., electrons or muons. It is shown that energies accurate to the picohartree can be achieved in full tensor format in less than 3300 s for atomic and muonic molecular systems. Furthermore, this CPU time is reduced to less than 300 s, without compromising the accuracy of the energy or quality of the wave function, using a low-rank tensor-train decomposition.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Attractor for
(1+1)D
viscous hydrodynamics with general rapidity distribution
Authors: Chen Shile , Shi Shuzhe
Published: February 2025

The attractor, which is supposed to be one of the possible answers for the early applicability of hydrodynamics in the evolution with different initial conditions, has attracted great attention to the fast decreasing of degrees of freedom in heavy ion collisions. We find attractor behaviors for 1+1D viscous hydrodynamics with general rapidity distribution based on Müller-Isreal-Stewart theory. Meanwhile, we also observe that a rapid expansion in the fluid velocity is essential for a rapid early time attractor.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Experimental Quantum Advantage in the Odd-Cycle Game
Authors: Drmota P. , Main D. , Ainley E. M. , Agrawal A. , Araneda G. , Nadlinger D. P. , Nichol B. C. , Srinivas R. , Cabello A. , Lucas D. M.
Published: February 2025

We report the first experimental demonstration of the odd-cycle game. We entangle two atoms separated by ∼2  m, and the players use them to win the odd-cycle game with a probability ∼26σ above that allowed by the best classical strategy. The experiment implements the optimal quantum strategy, is free of loopholes, and achieves 97.8(3)% of the theoretical limit to the quantum winning probability. We perform the associated Bell test and measure a nonlocal content of 0.54(2)—the largest value for physically separate devices, free of the detection loophole, ever observed.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Spatiotemporal dynamics of ionic reorganization near biological membrane interfaces
Authors: Row Hyeongjoo , Fernandes Joshua B. , Mandadapu Kranthi K. , Shekhar Karthik
Published: February 2025

Electrical signals in excitable cells involve spatially localized ionic fluxes through ion channels and pumps on cellular lipid membranes. Common approaches to understand how these fluxes spread assume that the membrane and the surrounding electrolyte comprise an equivalent circuit of capacitors and resistors, which ignores the localized nature of transmembrane ion transport, the resulting ionic gradients and electric fields, and their spatiotemporal relaxation. Here, we consider a model of localized ion pumping across a lipid membrane, and use theory and simulation to investigate how the electrochemical signal propagates spatiotemporally in and out of plane along the membrane. The localized pumping generates long-ranged electric fields with three distinct scaling regimes along the membrane: a constant potential near-field region, an intermediate monopolar region, and a far-field dipolar region. Upon sustained pumping, the monopolar region expands radially in plane with a steady speed that is enhanced by the dielectric mismatch and the finite thickness of the lipid membrane. For unmyelinated lipid membranes in physiological settings, we find remarkably fast propagation speeds of ∼40m/s, allowing faster ionic reorganization compared to bare diffusion. Together, our paper shows that transmembrane ionic fluxes induce transient long-ranged electric fields in electrolyte solutions, which may play hitherto unappreciated roles in biological signaling.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Impact of temporal correlations, coherence, and postselection on two-photon interference
Authors: Cardoso Fernando Redivo , Lee Jaewon , Checchinato Riccardo , Littmann Jan-Heinrich , De Gregorio Marco , Höfling Sven , Schneider Christian , Villas-Boas Celso J. , Predojević Ana
Published: February 2025

Two-photon interference is an indispensable resource in quantum photonics, but it is not straightforward to achieve. The cascaded generation of photon pairs contains intrinsic temporal correlations that negatively affect the ability of such sources to perform two-photon interference, thus hindering applications. We report on how such correlation interplays with decoherence and temporal postselection, and under which conditions temporal postselection could improve two-photon interference visibility. Our study identifies crucial parameters and points the way to a source with optimal performance.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Do I look real? Impact of digital human avatar influencer realism on consumer engagement and attachment
Authors: Shah Tejas R. , Purohit Sonal , Das Manish , Arulsivakumar Thavaprakash
Published: February 2025

Purpose

AI-powered digital human avatar influencer (DHAI) is a digitally created character with a human-like appearance and noteworthy social media presence. They mimic human behavior through form, behavior and emotional realism. However, there have been varied viewpoints in the literature about the effect of DHAI realism on consumer response. Therefore, this study aims to examine the effect of form, behavioral and emotional realism on consumer engagement and parasocial relationships that further affect attachment toward DHAI and brand, with the moderating effect of content authenticity.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a cross-sectional design, 426 respondents in India were asked to visit the Instagram page of a specific DHAI identified through a pretest study. The authors used the Smart PLS 4.0 version to examine the hypotheses.

Findings

Accordingly, based on the social presence theory, the findings of the quantitative study indicated that DHAI’s form, behavioral and emotional realism positively influence customers’ engagement with DHAI, but only the behavior and emotional realism of DHAI positively affect the parasocial relationship. Further, perceived DHAI’s content authenticity moderates the effect of DHAI engagement and parasocial relationship on DHAI sentimental attachment.

Originality/value

This study provides novel and practical insights for developing DHAI by considering realism characteristics for enhanced customer engagement, parasocial relationship and attachment toward DHAI and brands.
Changing vertical wind profile and its importance for wind-induced natural ventilation in high-rise buildings – a case of Pune
Authors: Kaushik Aprajita , Singh Sanjeev , Kapshe Manmohan
Published: February 2025

Purpose

The natural ventilation in tall buildings is significantly different from that in low-rise buildings. It is imperative to record the wind available on site as a prerequisite for designing wind-driven natural ventilation. This paper aims to establish the significance of collecting site-based wind data and highlights the gap between the observed wind speed and the one used in practice.

Design/methodology/approach

The method consists of experimental study to determine the available wind speed for a 100-metre-high building in a warm and humid climate. The analytical mathematical model that uses the interpolation method based on secondary wind data was used to equate wind velocity at such heights. The study compares both methods to understand the gap in predicting the vertical wind profile.

Findings

The existing practice of using a wind rose and predictive mathematical model needs to be confirmed with site-based wind data before being used as an input parameter for designing for natural ventilation on upper floors.

Research limitations/implications

Further studies can be undertaken to establish the variation of wind speed at the midriff of the building, derive an average rate of decrease in wind velocity and give a generalised wind input as a design guideline. A correction factor for the change in wind velocity can be helpful in determining the wind profile in the vertical component closest to the real-time data. The study is limited to outdoor wind velocity at various heights encountered at the windward side of the building. The study is region-specific.

Originality/value

The practice by designers and architects to use wind rose, composed of wind data available at 10-metre height, to design for naturally ventilated high-rise buildings is redundant. The study shows that the wind velocity profile changes beyond 20 metres. The prospect of a sustainable high-rise project is dependent on efficient natural ventilation, and hence the input wind velocity cannot be generic.
Single rotating LiDAR based in-situ 3D reconstruction of large scale dynamic working environment
Authors: Cheng Hongtai , Han Jiayi
Published: February 2025

Purpose

In situ 3D reconstruction is the basis for measuring and monitoring large-scale working environments such as construction sites and coal mining surfaces. The purpose of this paper is to address the difficulties of on-site 3D reconstruction in large-scale dynamic environments. Based on panoramic rotating light detection and ranging sensors, a dynamic environment 3D reconstruction method combining occupancy grid and point cloud segmentation is proposed.

Design/methodology/approach

The algorithm fully combines the information between point clouds to process the points in the region of interest, improving the processing speed of the occupancy grid method and the accuracy of dynamic object filtering. Furthermore, this paper also proposes an incremental long-short horizon segmentation and reconstruction workflow, which performs different levels of point cloud differential segmentation for various types of dynamic objects.

Findings

This paper designs detailed physical and simulation experiments in different environments to verify the advantages and reliability of the algorithm. The entire system showed satisfactory performance in experiments.

Originality/value

The proposed dynamic environment 3D reconstruction method can effectively complete the 3D reconstruction of complex work environments, and the proposed incremental long-short horizon segmentation and reconstruction workflow further improves the accuracy of dynamic object removal.
EXPERT FIXERS: Bureaucratic Informality, Brokerage and the Politics of Land in Mumbai
Authors: Banerji Sangeeta
Published: February 2025

Based on ethnographic fieldwork within the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), this article illustrates the ‘field of fixing’, a brokerage structure that operates alongside Mumbai's urban bureaucracy. Scholars of Southern urbanism have extensively written about the role of informalized state action in producing an unequal cityscape. Exploring a disaggregated view of this state space in the megacity of Mumbai, this article turns attention instead to the ‘paralegal’ or the ‘field of fixing’, a liminal space between the state, market and society dictating access to the city in postcolonial India. The expert fixers in this space manipulate and maintain the real estate industry's relationship with Mumbai's urban bureaucracy. This article highlights the practices of six such fixers—the follow‐up boy, the watcher, the paper expert, the regulation expert, the regulation strategy expert and the liaisoning architect by following the movement of files seeking bureaucratic approvals for land development in Mumbai, elucidating a predatory politics that ensures the success of real‐estate developers in the megacity.
Avoidance versus use of neuromuscular blocking agents for optimizing video laryngoscopy‐assisted tracheal intubation: A protocol for a systematic review with meta‐analysis and trial sequential analysis
Authors: Creutzburg Andreas , Nørskov Anders Kehlet , Christensen Michelle Icka , Afshari Arash , Lundstrøm Lars Hyldborg , Bill Louise , Nedergaard Helene Korvenius , Vested Matias
Published: February 2025

Background

Both the European Society of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care and the Difficult Airway Society recommend the use of neuromuscular blocking agents (NMBAs) to facilitate tracheal intubation and to reduce the risk of complications. Even though it is recommended to use video laryngoscopy for intubation, especially in circumstances where difficult tracheal intubation is expected, the evidence for the combination of video laryngoscopy and NMBAs is sparse. This protocol outlines a systematic review of the effect of avoidance versus use of NMBAs for tracheal intubation during video laryngoscopy in adults.

Methods

This protocol is made in accordance with reporting items for systematic reviews and meta‐analyses protocols recommendations. We intent to include randomised controlled trials assessing the effect of avoidance versus use of NMBAs during video laryngoscopy to facilitate tracheal intubation (either nasal or oral) in the adult population. The primary outcome is failed first‐pass intubation. Our secondary outcomes include adverse and serious adverse events. A thorough search will be done to identify relevant trials, including CENTRAL, MEDLINE, EMBASE, BIOSIS, Web of Science and CIHNAL. Furthermore, trial registries will be searched for unpublished trials. Each trial will be evaluated for bias. We will use appropriate packages in R to perform the meta‐analysis. Additionally, we will perform trial sequential analysis on the meta‐analysis of our primary outcome. Lastly, we will employ the GRADE approach and create “Summary of Findings” tables.
Corporate Social Responsibility Theories in the Context of Global Transformational Events: A Scoping Review
Authors: Billedeau David Benjamin , Palaschuk Nicholas , Wilson Jeffrey
Published: February 2025

This scoping review examines the applicability and evolution of corporate social responsibility (CSR) theories, which focus on voluntary corporate actions, during global transformational events. Additionally, the study explores the relevance of broader sustainability management (SUSM) theories, which provide comprehensive frameworks for integrating sustainability into corporate strategies, to assess their adaptability under such abnormal operating conditions. We identify and review 10 key theories pertinent to SUSM during normal and abnormal operating periods: Agency Theory, Cognitive Theory, Ecological Modernization, Institutional Theory, Leadership Theory, Legitimacy Theory, Neoclassical Theory, Shareholder Theory, Socio‐Ecological Systems Theory, and Stakeholder Theory. Our findings reveal that these theories are dynamic, evolving in response to global crises, thereby influencing and being influenced by corporate behaviors. This study contributes to the academic literature by highlighting the interplay between theoretical evolution and real‐world applications of CSR and SUSM. For managers, the study offers insights into building corporate resilience and adaptability, while policymakers are provided with guidance on fostering regulatory environments that support sustainable corporate practices during periods of disruption. These contributions underscore the importance of refining SUSM frameworks to guide corporate decision‐making in increasingly volatile environments.
Blockade of P2X7 receptors preserves blood retinal barrier integrity by modulating the plasmalemma vesicle‐associated protein: Implications for diabetic retinopathy
Authors: Platania Chiara Bianca Maria , Lazzara Francesca , Mitton Kenneth , Haque Naomi , Dailey Wendelin , Conti Federica , Giuffrida Erika , Drago Filippo , Hermenean Anca , Balta Cornel , Herman Hildegard , Ciceu Alina , Trotta Maria Consiglia , D'Amico Michele , Nicosia Giuseppe , Rossi Settimio , Bucolo Claudio
Published: February 2025

Background and Purpose

Plasmalemma vesicle‐associated protein (PLVAP) regulates transcytosis in vascular endothelial cells. PLVAP expression is increased in pathological conditions, such as diabetic retinopathy. P2X7 receptor antagonists have been shown to preserve blood‐retinal barrier (BRB) integrity. Here, we have tested the hypothesis that PLVAP expression is tightly linked to P2X7 receptor activity, leading to breakdown of the BRB in an in vitro model of diabetic retinopathy.

Experimental Approach

We integrated network approaches with an in vitro model of diabetic retinopathy using primary human retinal microvascular endothelial cells (HRMECs). Cells were treated with a P2X7 receptor antagonist, JNJ47965567, and expression of several genes predicted to belong to the P2X7 receptor signalling network were assessed. Levels and localisation of PLVAP, VE‐cadherin and zonula occludens‐1 (ZO‐1) in HRMECs were evaluated. In vivo, the effects of JNJ47965567 on PLVAP expression in the retinas of diabetic mice were assessed.

Key Results

High levels of glucose increased PLVAP expression in HRMECs, which was blocked by JNJ47965567. Furthermore, JNJ47965567 preserved VE‐cadherin and ZO‐1. In the choroidal vasculature of diabetic mice, PLVAP immunostaining was increased, compared to levels in non‐diabetic mice. This increase was significantly attenuated by treatment with JNJ47965567

Conclusions and Implications

This study showed that P2X7 receptor signalling is an important component of a complex gene regulatory network, including PLVAP, mediating the pathophysiology of diabetic retinopathy. The P2X7 receptor antagonist JNJ47965567 showed a good pharmacodynamic profile, suggesting that this approach could be of value in the treatment of diabetic retinopathy.
Unbundling Hackathon Orchestration Mechanisms: Relational Brokering, Contextual Configuring, and Legitimacy Building
Authors: Haefliger Christina , Ritala Paavo , Hakala Henri
Published: February 2025

This study explores the orchestration of hackathons targeting the creation of new ideas and innovation. We employed a qualitative case study approach with data collected from hackathon organizers, partners, and solvers at multiple events organized by Ultrahack, a Finnish hackathon organizer. We initially conceptualized hackathon orchestration as a form of coordination that requires brokering in social networks. Building on this background, we empirically identify three types of orchestration mechanisms: orchestration as relational brokering, orchestration as contextual configuring, and orchestration as legitimacy building. We analyse how these mechanisms contribute to the benefits perceived by hackathon solvers and partners. Our study contributes to the academic discourse on orchestration mechanisms in hackathons and offers insights for practitioners managing hackathons and innovation contests, especially from the point of view of third‐party orchestrators.
The golden layer: the origins, concentration, and transmission of top wealth in Zurich, 1880–1952
Authors: Legentilhomme Geoffroy , Leimgruber Matthieu
Published: February 2025

On the basis of a new dataset of top wealth holdings at the taxpayer level for the Swiss canton of Zurich from 1880 to 1952, this article makes two main contributions. First, we provide an estimate of the top 0.1 per cent wealth share and show that wealth concentration in Zurich exhibited significant stability in comparative perspective. Second, we provide a collective portrait of the top 0.1 per cent wealth share, highlighting patterns of continuity and change. If inheritance played a paramount role, genuine ‘rentiers’ remained a minority in comparison with businessmen active in family firms which they had inherited. We also identify a significant share of wealthy women. By combining biographical and genealogical information, we analyse the persistence of top fortunes. In 1952, 35 per cent of the top 0.1 per cent wealth was owned by taxpayers who were related – kinship‐wise – to the richest taxpayers of the late nineteenth century. Overall, we highlight how collective biography approaches can contribute to debates on wealth concentration and transmission. As top wealth tends to be concentrated in specific locations, we also underscore how studies focusing on specific cities and regions can improve our understanding of these mechanisms.
Self‐Regulated Learning Strategies in Computer Programming Education
Authors: Ramírez‐Echeverry Jhon Jairo , Restrepo‐Calle Felipe , Jiménez Stephanie Torres
Published: February 2025

This study investigates the self‐regulated learning strategies employed by students in computer programming courses. Utilising the Questionnaire on Learning Strategies in Computer Programming (CEAPC), the research aims to identify specific strategies used by students. The findings reveal a variety of effective learning strategies, including problem‐solving, knowledge acquisition and study environment management in the context of computer programming learning. However, difficulties in idea organisation were noted, suggesting a need for enhanced support in structuring and documenting thought processes and code. The study also highlights the interdependence of learning strategies, particularly the role of metacognition in conjunction with practice, problem‐solving and time management. Differences in strategy use across course levels and gender were observed, with advanced courses prompting more complex strategies and female students excelling in structured and collaborative learning. These insights provide educators with valuable guidance for developing targeted interventions to improve students' self‐regulated learning abilities in programming education.
Hemolysis Biomarkers After Pulmonary Vein Isolation via a Balloon‐In‐Basket PFA Catheter
Authors: Marcon Lorenzo , Della Rocca Domenico G. , Vetta Giampaolo , Nakasone Kazutaka , Sorgente Antonio , de Asmundis Carlo , Chierchia Gian‐Battista
Published: February 2025

Introduction

The extensive use of pulsed field ablation (PFA) in clinical settings has unveiled new evidence suggesting potential involvement in red blood cell structural impairment resulting in hemolysis and potential acute kidney injury (AKI).

Methods

In this study, blood samples were collected from 16 patients before and 24 h after pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) via a novel investigational PFA‐based technology. Biochemical analyses were performed to assess hemolysis and AKI, including total and indirect bilirubin, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), haptoglobin, plasma free hemoglobin, urea, creatinine, and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR).

Results

Based on the periprocedural changes in hemolysis biomarkers, none of the patients displayed evidence of clinically relevant hemolysis following PVI with the PFA catheter.
Cancer and Accelerated Aging Research at the National Institutes of Health, 2013–2023: A Grant Portfolio Analysis
Authors: Gallicchio Lisa , Brick Rachelle , Tesauro Gina , Page Lindsey , Green Paige , Guida Jennifer L.
Published: February 2025

Background

The purpose of this study was to describe the characteristics of the NIH‐funded grant portfolio focused on cancer and accelerated aging.

Methods

Research project grants focused on cancer survivors and aging trajectories that were newly funded during fiscal years 2013 through 2023 were identified by first using a text mining algorithm from the NIH Research, Condition, and Disease Categorization (RCDC) system with cancer survivorship‐relevant terms and then a list of aging‐related terms that included aging, neurocognition, and physical function. Included grants were double coded to extract study characteristics.

Results

A total of 166 grants were identified, with the National Cancer Institute (NCI) and National Institute on Aging (NIA) funding 62.0% and 23.5% of the grants, respectively. The number of newly funded grants rose from nine in 2013 to 27 in 2023. Overall, the majority were observational studies (65.1%); 45% included study samples of multiple cancer types. The most commonly examined outcomes were cognitive (54.4%) or physical (37.5%) functioning; 30% of grants incorporated an aging‐related biomarker. Few grants focused on racial and ethnic minority (3.0%) or rural cancer survivors (2.4%).

Conclusions

This portfolio analysis showed an increase in the number of NIH‐funded grants focused on cancer survivors and accelerated aging, but notable gaps are evident. Given the rapidly growing survivor population, many of whom will experience accelerated aging trajectories, there is a critical need to better understand accelerated aging phenotypes and mechanisms, so that those at the highest risk for adverse aging‐related effects can be identified and interventions developed.
Engaging South Asian Communities in the United Kingdom to Explore Infant Feeding Practices and Inform Intervention Development: Application of the REPLACE Approach
Authors: Kwah Kayleigh , Sharps Maxine , Bartle Naomi , Choudhry Kubra , Blissett Jacqueline , Brown Katherine
Published: February 2025

Breastfeeding in UK Pakistani and Bangladeshi communities is positively and negatively influenced by cultural beliefs and practices. The LIFT (Learning about Infant Feeding Together) project aimed to understand the determinants of infant feeding in these target communities and to engage them in the development of a culturally specific and acceptable infant feeding intervention to support breastfeeding. Reported here is phase one of the LIFT project guided by the REPLACE approach (a framework for the development of community‐based interventions). The project involved an initial lengthy period of engagement with the target communities, using methods such as a community outreach event and identification of community peer group champions to help build trust. This was followed by iterative community workshops used to explore and build an understanding of infant feeding practices and the social norms and beliefs underlying these, and to assess community readiness to change. Consistent with previous research, the six key practices and beliefs identified from the workshops were: (1) Disparities between personal views versus cultural and normative barriers, (2) Family relationships and the influence on infant feeding decisions, (3) Pardah (modesty) and being unable to breastfeed in front of others, (4) Discarding colostrum (first breast milk), (5) Pre‐lacteal feeds (feeds within a few hours of birth and before any breast or formula milk has been given) and complementary feeding before the baby is 6 months old, and (6) The belief that bigger babies are better and that formula helps babies to grow. Participants perceived that Pakistani and Bangladeshi communities would be amenable to intervention that aimed to change some but not all of the infant feeding behaviours identified. Findings informed the co‐development of a culturally appropriate intervention toolkit to optimise infant feeding behaviour.
Hybrid deep learning model for predicting failure properties of asphalt binder from fracture surface images
Authors: Asadi Babak , Shah Viraj , Vyas Abhilash , Golparvar‐Fard Mani , Hajj Ramez
Published: February 2025

Cracking impacts asphalt concrete durability primarily due to cohesive asphalt binder failures. The poker chip test has recently been introduced to better characterize the cracking potential of asphalt binders by fracturing a specimen in a realistic stress state to a thin binder film. However, broader adoption faces challenges due to high instrumentation costs for measuring load and displacement. This paper presents and validates a deep learning model that predicts ductility and tensile strength from posttest images of fractured binder surfaces, with potential extensions to simplified instrumentation. The hybrid model, named PCNet, integrates a custom lightweight convolutional neural network (CNN) developed to capture local features (e.g., edges, boundaries, contours) within fracture cavities with a Swin Transformer that models global contextual dependencies. A bidirectional cross‐attention fusion module is designed to facilitate mutual information exchange between CNN and transformer branches. The fused features are then processed by a fully connected network (FCN) to predict indices derived from the test. The proposed model demonstrates high predictive accuracy across a range of binders and test configurations, achieving an of 0.966 and a mean absolute percentage error (MAPE) of 12.95% in predicting ductility, while also attaining an of 0.947 and a MAPE of 9.15% for strength, outperforming standalone models. Monte Carlo Dropout is also incorporated in the FCN to quantify prediction confidence. This cost‐effective methodology provides insights into fracture propagation in soft viscoelastic media and contributes to the field of experimental mechanics. With further data collection, the model holds potential for broader implementation, directly linking fracture surface images and mixture or field‐scale cracking behavior.
Subtilisin 6 From the Dermatophyte Trichophyton benhamiae Is a Marker of Infection but Not a Unique Virulence Factor
Authors: Poirier Wilfried , Faway Émilie , Yamada Tsuyoshi , Ozawa Kiyotaka , Maréchal Françoise , Monod Michel , Poumay Yves , Mignon Bernard
Published: February 2025

Background

Trichophyton benhamiae is a common dermatophyte whose natural host is the guinea pig and which causes highly inflammatory skin lesions in humans. The subtilisin 6 (SUB6) of this fungus belongs to a family of 12 SUB genes. Its encoding gene, overexpressed in vivo but not in vitro, has been considered a potentially important virulence factor, but its role in pathogenesis remains to be elucidated.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to assess the role of T. benhamiae SUB6 in virulence in a mouse skin infection model.

Methods

To assess the contribution of SUB6 to virulence, SUB6‐deleted (ΔSUB6) and complemented strains were generated by genetic transformation. The pathogenicity of these strains was compared with that of the parental strain in vivo in mice, based on the evolution of skin symptoms, histopathological lesions and molecular analyses targeting the expression of host pro‐inflammatory genes and fungal genes encoding subtilisins from the same family as SUB6.

Results

The ΔSUB6 strain induced superficial skin signs and histopathological inflammatory lesions similar to those caused by the parental strain. Significant overexpression of the SUB1, SUB3, SUB8 and SUB10 genes in the tissues was observed regardless of the strain tested, with no difference between these strains, reflecting the absence of any compensatory mechanism among subtilisins.

Conclusions

SUB6 appears to be more of a marker of fungal infection than a virulence factor, at least acting alone.
Applications of interpretable ensemble learning for workplace risk assessment: The Chinese coal industry as an example
Authors: Wang QiFei , Zhao YiHan , Wang JunLong , Liu Shuai , Liu HaoLin , Qu Yang , Sun YingFeng , Li ChengWu
Published: February 2025

Machine learning has demonstrated potential in addressing complex nonlinear changes in risk assessment. However, further exploration is needed to enhance model interpretability and optimize performance. Therefore, this study aims to develop a novel workplace risk assessment framework. By utilizing the SHapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP) analysis method and ensemble learning algorithms, the framework maps characteristic attributes to risk levels. Reliability validation of the framework and analysis of critical attribute components are conducted using accidents in Chinese coal enterprises as a case study, which represents one of the most serious occupational hazards. The results indicate that addressing interpretability issues of ensemble learning algorithms yields a model capable of accurately assessing workplace risk and understanding model decision‐making processes. Comparative experiments show that the model achieves an accuracy of up to 98.3%, confirming its robust performance. The outcomes of the SHAP model for feature importance facilitate the identification of critical attributes that explain causal relationships leading to risk‐level findings. This provides valuable accident prevention strategies to minimize occupational injuries and losses.
The Western Far Right and Digital Technology: Fuzzy Collectivity From Translocal Whiteness to Networked Metapolitics
Authors: Ganesh Bharath
Published: February 2025

The rise of the far right has captured the attention of scholars across media studies, political science, and sociology. Digital technology played an important role in the rise of the far right and has deeply shaped this global movement. Focusing on research in Western societies (primarily Europe and North America), this review takes stock of how scholars in these three disciplines have studied the intersection of the far right and digital technology. The review introduces the problem of fuzzy collectivity to understand how scholars have made sense of the far right as an assemblage of increasingly complex networks of actors distributed across websites, alternative media, and platforms. Exploring solutions to the problem of fuzzy collectivity in the literature, the review proposes that far‐right engagement with digital technology should be conceptualized as a racial project engaging in metapolitics, a term used by far‐right ideologues that understands cultural movements to be prefigurative of political change. The review then explores the intersection of the far right and digital technology today, examining how it uses technology and the context of this use. The review then identifies pathways to reintegrate critical perspectives on racism in future research on the far right and digital technology.
Hispanic intersectional pay in the United States: Measuring the intra‐ and inter‐ethnoracial and gender income differences by Hispanic groups
Authors: Ferraro A. C. , Young Abby , Bernal Briceira , Vo Tiffanie , Schleifer Cyrus
Published: February 2025

Most studies on racial income inequality focus on Black–White differences, ignoring the fact that Hispanic individuals are the lowest‐earning ethnoracial group in the United States. Research focusing on Hispanic workers emphasizes either men's or women's labor market experiences, treats Hispanics as a homogenous group. These approaches neglect the intersectional dynamics shaping these processes and overlook the diverse experiences across Hispanic communities. Using the Current Population Survey Annual Social and Economic Supplement, we investigate the patterns of inequality for various Hispanic groups by gender using inter‐ and intra‐categorical comparisons. While Hispanic workers are the lowest‐earning ethnoracial group in the aggregated data, disaggregating by country of origin shows variation, with Mexicans and Central/South Americans earning the least, while Cubans and Puerto Ricans show relatively higher income. Using inter‐ethnoracial comparisons across gender, we find Cuban men show a smaller pay gap relative to non‐Hispanic White men; however, Cuban women show a larger gap, more than two times the difference between Cuban men relative to non‐Hispanic White men. Our findings highlight both the need for intersectional approaches and attention to the distinct experiences of Hispanic groups in the labor market. We conclude by discussing the implications of our results for future research.
TGGLinesPlus: A Robust Topological Graph‐Guided Computer Vision Algorithm for Line Detection From Images
Authors: Yang Liping , Driscol Joshua , Gong Ming , Slack Katie , Zhang Wenbin , Wang Shujie , Potts Catherine G.
Published: February 2025

Line detection is a classic and essential problem in image processing, computer vision, and machine intelligence. Line detection has many important applications, including image vectorization (e.g., document recognition and art design), indoor mapping, and important societal challenges (e.g., sea ice fracture line extraction from satellite imagery). Many line detection algorithms and methods have been developed, but robust and intuitive methods are still lacking. In this paper, we proposed and implemented a topological graph‐guided algorithm, named TGGLinesPlus, for line detection. Our experiments on images from a wide range of domains have demonstrated the flexibility of our TGGLinesPlus algorithm. We benchmarked our algorithm with five classic and state‐of‐the‐art line detection methods and evaluated the benchmark results qualitatively and quantitatively, the results demonstrate the robustness of TGGLinesPlus.
The Impact of the Technological Boom on Traditional and Social Media in Kazakhstan
Authors: Kassymbekova Nazira , Tolegen Elmira , Buyenbayeva Zarina , Almanova Nabira , Shyngyssova Nazgul
Published: February 2025

This study explores the impact of technological advancements on traditional and new media in Kazakhstan through surveys and SWOT analysis. The research examines shifts in media consumption, the roles of traditional and new media, and the associated challenges. Survey results indicate a significant preference for digital platforms, with 92.3% of respondents favoring new media over traditional forms like TV and radio. SWOT analysis highlights the strengths of traditional media, such as audience expansion through digitalization and enhanced engagement, while noting weaknesses like declining print media and intense competition. New media strengths include accessibility, independence, and innovation, but face issues with content reliability and financial sustainability.Opportunities for traditional media involve audience growth via digital platforms and multimedia integration, whereas new media can leverage independent journalism platforms and diverse monetization models. Both traditional and new media confront threats such as declining trust, financial difficulties, disinformation, and cyber threats. Despite advancements, media freedom in Kazakhstan remains limited, with fluctuating rankings by Reporters Without Borders indicating persistent challenges.The research underscores the transformative impact of digital technologies on Kazakhstan's media landscape, revealing shifts towards digital platforms that democratize information but pose threats to traditional media. The rise of new media forms, such as blogs and social networks, enhances public engagement but brings challenges of content quality and misinformation. Journalists must adapt to new roles emphasizing analytical and communicative skills. Balancing commercial interests with public service, addressing the digital divide, and ensuring equitable access to digital media are crucial.In conclusion, the digital transformation presents both growth opportunities and challenges, necessitating adaptive strategies from media organizations and policymakers to navigate the evolving media landscape in Kazakhstan while upholding high journalistic standards and media independence.
Heat transfer performance of copper powder-copper mesh composite wick flat-plate micro heat pipe
Authors: Zhao Zhengang , Zhu Chenyu , Cai Shuiyan , Luo Chuan
Published: February 2025

Flat-plate micro heat pipe(FMHP) plays an important role in the field of heat dissipation of electronic devices through vapor-liquid two-phase flow. Improving the heat transfer performance of FMHP has become a hot topic. This paper analyses the heat transfer principle of the FMHP to discover that balancing the capillary force and permeability of the wick is crucial to the heat transfer performance of the FMHP. Therefore, we propose a kind of copper powder and three kinds of copper powder-copper mesh integrated sintered wicks, build an experimental device, and analyze and research their heat transfer performance. The results show that the wick sintered from two layers of copper mesh and copper powder can better balance the capillary force and permeability, and the prepared FMHP has the best heat transfer performance. The maximum thermal power is 30 W and the minimum thermal resistance is 0.27 °C / W at the optimum filling ratios.
Isokinetic Peak Torque Ratio Between Hamstring and Quadriceps Musculature Correlates With Game Performance in Elite and U-20 Players of the Brazilian Women’s Soccer Team
Authors: Ogando Pedro Henrique Madureira , de Moura Isaías Gonçalves , Ramos Guilherme Passos , Wilke Carolina Franco , Coimbra Cândido Celso , Soares Danusa Dias
Published: February 2025

This study investigates the potential associations between the isokinetic torque ratio of the women’s hamstring and quadriceps musculature and soccer players’ on-field performance during official games. Data from the Brazilian U-20 National Soccer Team (19.22 ± 0.83 years, n = 9) and elite National Soccer Team (29.17 ± 5.49 years, n = 6) were analyzed. Isokinetic concentric muscle strength tests at 60°/s were conducted bilaterally using a dynamometer. Peak torque (measured in newton meters) and hamstring to quadriceps concentric peak torque ratio for both legs were recorded. During official games, total distance covered, pace, number of accelerations, and decelerations, and distances covered in accelerations and decelerations were assessed by a GPS attached to the players’ upper back. Statistical analysis employed Pearson’s or Spearman’s correlation as with appropriate, with significance set at p < .05. Elite athletes’ group significant correlations were observed between the hamstring to quadriceps concentric peak torque ratio and several performance parameters, including total distance (R = .664; p = .003), pace (R = −.673; p = .003), deceleration (R = .553; p = .02), and distances covered in accelerations (R = .544; p = .023) and decelerations (R = .683; p = .002). However, in the U-20 athletes’ group, significant correlations were only found between hamstring to quadriceps concentric peak torque ratio and acceleration (R = −.563; p = .005). These findings suggest lower limb isokinetic testing in elite soccer players may serve as a valuable performance indicator for on-field actions during official games.
The Role of Physical Activity Intensity on Polychlorinated Biphenyl Levels in Pregnant Women
Authors: Middleton Ashley , Harden Joel E. , Reynolds Leryn J.
Published: February 2025

Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) have deleterious effects on pregnant women and their fetus/offspring when exposed in utero. Physical activity has positive health outcomes on pregnant women and offspring. However, studies are lacking on whether physical activity impacts serum PCB levels in pregnant women. The purpose of this study was to examine if serum PCB 138, 153, and 180 differ between pregnant women who have and have not participated in moderate (Mod, NoMod) or vigorous (Vig, NoVig) physical activity for at least 10 min in duration within the past 30 days, assessed via questionnaire. 178 pregnant women from the 1999 to 2004 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey were examined. PCB 138, 153, and 180 were significantly higher in Vig compared to NoVig (PCB 138: Vig—13.96 ± 0.93, NoVig—11.49 ± 0.72 ng/g, p = .015; PCB 153: Vig—21.32 ± 2.35, NoVig—15.21 ± 1.15 ng/g, p = .017; PCB 180: Vig—13.42 ± 2.35, NoVig—8.63 ± 0.71 ng/g, p = .056). PCB 138, 153, and 180 were not significantly different in Mod compared to NoMod (PCB 138: Mod—12.55 ± 0.98, NoMod—11.27 ± 1.16 ng/g, p = .432; PCB153: Mod—17.38 ± 1.80, NoMod—15.09 ± 1.71 ng/g, p = .392; PCB 180: Mod—10.28 ± 1.20, NoMod—8.59 ± 1.15 ng/g, p = .344). After adjusting for race/ethnicity, age, weight change status and body mass index, PCB levels for both vigorous and moderate activity status were not statistically significant (p < .05). Finally, PCB 138, 153, and 180 were lower in the top 50% body mass index compared to the lowest 50% (p < .05). Participating in physical activity does not appear to alter PCB levels in pregnant women after taking into consideration potential confounding factors but is impacted by body weight.
Study of Stability and Structural and Magnetic Ordering in (Cr1 − xFex)3C2 Magnetic MXene
Authors: Shinkorenko A. S. , Zhandun V. S. , Zamkova N. G.
Published: February 2025

The thermodynamic stability and the magnetic and electronic properties of a new two-dimensional magnetic compound (Cr1 − 
x
Fe
x
)3C2 belonging to the MXen family have been analyzed using ab initio calculations and the cluster approximation. The most stable structure and magnetic configuration of (Cr1 − 
x
Fe
x
)3C2 have been proposed taking into account the functionalization of the surface with fluorine and oxygen. For the first time, a stable and promising ferrimagnetic MXene (Cr1/3Fe2/3)3C2 with a high magnetic moment per cell has been discovered, both in the pure form and with the fluorine-functionalized surface.