bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Contribution of Hydric Habitats to the Richness of the Cape Fynbos Flora
Authors: van Blerk J. J. , Cramer M. D. , West A. G. , Musker S. D. , Verboom G. A.
Published: January 2025

Aim

The Cape Fold Belt Mountains, underlying the Cape fynbos flora, facilitate widespread moisture collection and groundwater availability across the region, with importance for maintaining hydric habitat niches. We assessed the contribution of hydric habitat‐associated species (HH species) to the richness of this flora, and how this varies phylogenetically and spatially.

Location

The Cape Floristic Region (CFR), South Africa.

Methods

We compiled data describing habitat preference and distributions for 3114 species in 23 fynbos clades. We used published habitat descriptions to identify putative HH species and tested how hydric habitat association is structured phylogenetically using both Ornstein‐Uhlenbeck models and measures of phylogenetic signal. We used species' distribution data to identify regional hotspots of HH species and boosted regression trees (BRTs) to identify associated environmental drivers.

Results

Preference for hydric habitats is associated with nearly a fifth of the species in our study, being most strongly represented in monocot clades. HH species are most strongly concentrated in the southwestern CFR, where they contribute to high overall richness. BRTs indicated that hotspots of HH species are generally associated with saturating, winter precipitation and/or elevated levels of groundwater discharge.

Main Conclusions

Our findings indicate that the unique climate, topography and hydrology of the CFR facilitate the formation and maintenance of important hydric habitats, which play host to a large fraction of the flora despite much of the region being semi‐ or seasonally arid. These findings highlight the threat of climate change and underscore the need for extreme caution regarding activities like groundwater abstraction, which could disrupt the hydrological processes essential to sustaining these habitats and their unique flora.
Sexual dimorphism in exercise‐induced response on steroid hormones to a 24‐week supervised concurrent training intervention
Authors: Herrera‐Quintana Lourdes , Vázquez‐Lorente Héctor , Ruiz Jonatan R. , Amaro‐Gahete Francisco J.
Published: January 2025

Background

Steroid hormones are key mediators of adaptative responses to exercise, a stimulus that may concurrently affect their blood concentrations. However, the chronic endocrine adaptations and whether these potential changes are dependent on exercise intensity remain undetermined. Moreover, it is also unknown if the exercise‐induced effects on steroid hormonal status are related to the participant' sex.

Methods

This study aimed to investigate the intensity effects of a 24‐week supervised concurrent training intervention on steroid hormones in sedentary young men and women. A total of 106 untrained young adults (68% women) aged 18–25 years were randomly assigned to one of the three groups: (I) Control group (no exercise; n = 35); (II) Ex‐Moderate group (concurrent training at moderate intensity; n = 36); (III) Ex‐Vigorous group (concurrent training at vigorous intensity; n = 35). Steroid hormones (i.e. cortisol, testosterone and dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS)) were measured in plasma through a chemiluminescent method. Body composition parameters were determined using a dual‐energy X‐ray absorptiometry scanner.

Results

No significant changes in steroid hormones levels were observed after the intervention (all p ≥ .129). However, a time x group interaction was noted in the testosterone/cortisol ratio (T/C ratio) only in women (p = .044). Concretely, our data showed a significant decrement of T/C ratio in both the Ex‐Moderate group and in the Ex‐Vigorous compared with the control group (Δ = −24.2 ± 2.0% and Δ = −38.9 ± 45.4%, respectively).

Conclusion

Our 24‐week supervised concurrent training intervention showed no significant changes in steroid hormone levels. However, a significant decrement of T/C ratio was observed only in women, indicating a sexual dimorphism in the effect on T/C ratio.
Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) as fluid biomarker in neurodegenerative disorders: A systematic review
Authors: Risi Barbara , Imarisio Alberto , Cuconato Giada , Padovani Alessandro , Valente Enza Maria , Filosto Massimiliano
Published: January 2025

Background

Several studies evaluated peripheral and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) mtDNA as a putative biomarker in neurodegenerative diseases, often yielding inconsistent findings. We systematically reviewed the current evidence assessing blood and CSF mtDNA levels and variant burden in Parkinson's disease (PD), Alzheimer's disease (AD) and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Multiple sclerosis (MS) was also included as a paradigm of chronic neuroinflammation‐driven neurodegeneration.

Methods

Medline, Embase, Scopus and Web of Science were searched for articles published from inception until October 2023. Studies focused on mtDNA haplogroups or hereditary pathogenic variants were excluded. Critical appraisal was performed using the Quality Assessment for Diagnostic Accuracy Studies criteria.

Results

Fifty‐nine original studies met our a priori‐defined inclusion criteria. The majority of CSF‐focused studies showed (i) decreased mtDNA levels in PD and AD; (ii) increased levels in MS compared to controls. No studies evaluated CSF mtDNA in ALS. Results focused on blood cell‐free and intracellular mtDNA were contradictory, even within studies evaluating the same disease. This poor reproducibility is likely due to the lack of consideration of the many factors known to affect mtDNA levels. mtDNA damage and methylation levels were increased and reduced in patients compared to controls, respectively. A few studies investigated the correlation between mtDNA and disease severity, with conflicting results.

Conclusions

Additional well‐designed studies are needed to evaluate CSF and blood mtDNA profiles as putative biomarkers in neurodegenerative diseases. The identification of “mitochondrial subtypes” of disease may enable novel precision medicine strategies to counteract neurodegeneration.
Spatio‐Temporal Changes in Effective Population Size in an Expanding Metapopulation of Eurasian Otters
Authors: Thomas Nia Evelyn , Chadwick Elizabeth A. , Bruford Michael W. , Hailer Frank
Published: January 2025

Conservation efforts are leading to demographic growth and spatial expansion of some previously endangered species. However, past population bottlenecks or population size fluctuations can have lasting effects on effective population size (Ne), even when census size (Nc) appears large or recovered. The UK metapopulation of Eurasian otters (Lutra lutra) has a well‐documented history of population recovery over recent decades, with indicators of presence (faeces and footprints) increasing in distribution and number over successive national surveys. To determine whether this increase in Nc is reflected in increased Ne, we analysed a large‐scale microsatellite dataset (21 years: 1993–2014; 407 individuals) for signals of recent Ne change using BOTTLENECK and LDNe, and evaluated potential biases associated with unaccounted spatial genetic structuring and inclusion of admixed genotypes. We obtained clear bottleneck signals in East England, and signals of recent population expansion in Wales and South West England in some analyses, consistent with national otter surveys and recent findings from whole‐genome sequencing. Analyses that did not account for spatial genetic structuring yielded strong spurious signals of United Kingdom‐wide population expansion, and Ne estimates from these analyses were suppressed by a factor of 3–4. Inclusion of admixed individuals had weaker impacts on Ne estimates, with overlapping 95% confidence intervals from different analyses. Notably, total Ne summed across regions was small and well below the Ne = 500 size deemed necessary for long‐term population viability (sum of river basin district groups: 170.6, 95% C.I.: 102.1–348.3). Conclusions drawn from UK otter surveys, which had suggested a robust population close to panmixia, are therefore not supported by our genetic evidence. Our study highlights the value of including genetic monitoring of endangered or recovering species in monitoring plans, while also providing methodologically important information about Ne estimation from real‐world datasets.
Perceptions of Political Deviants in the US Democrat and Republican Parties
Authors: Kulibert Danica , Moss Aaron J. , Appleby Jacob , O'Brien Laurie T.
Published: January 2025

People who deviate from group norms pose problems for their ingroup, but not all forms of deviance are equivalent. Six experiments (N = 1,653) investigated lay understandings of subjective group dynamics by assessing people's beliefs about how others would perceive two types of deviants within U.S. political parties—political moderates and extremes. Experiments 1 and 2 demonstrated that participants thought Democrats and Republicans, respectively, would show less approval of a moderate ingroup political candidate than an extreme ingroup political candidate. Experiment 3 demonstrated that participants thought Democrats would show less approval of a moderate Democratic campaign volunteer than an extreme Democratic campaign volunteer. Experiments 4 and 5 replicated Experiments 1 and 2 in ideologically diverse samples. Experiment 6 extended these findings by demonstrating that people's expectation that Republicans will show less approval of moderate ingroup members than extreme ingroup members extends to rank‐and‐file party members. People intuitively understand subjective group dynamics and this understanding may have important consequences for political behavior and discourse.
Production of amphisterol and other Δ8(14) sterols by Togula jolla (formerly Amphidinium sensu lato) overlaps chemotaxonomically with Amphidinium carterae
Authors: Hollingsworth Braedyn E. , Alves‐de‐Souza Catharina , Leblond Jeffrey D.
Published: January 2025

While a longstanding method for identifying dinoflagellates, morphology alone can be inaccurate because of convergent evolution of truly different species toward a particular cellular shape. The dinoflagellate genus Togula is a case in point in that its type species Togula britannica was previously assigned to the genus Amphidinium based on morphology but was recently recognized as an independent genus following phylogenetic characterization. Chemotaxonomy can be a useful tool to complement the characterization of dinoflagellates by phylogeny. To this point, some, but not all, species of Amphidinium, such as Amphidinium carterae, have been observed to produce the rare 4α‐methyl‐substituted, Δ8(14)‐nuclear‐unsaturated major sterol 4α‐methyl‐5α‐ergosta‐8(14),24(28)‐dien‐3β‐ol (amphisterol) that has historically been considered a potential chemotaxonomic biomarker for the genus as it is found in very few other dinoflagellate genera. To date, no isolates within the genus Togula have had their sterols characterized; our objective was thus to provide a first examination of the sterols of an isolate of Togula to compare to the sterols of Amphidinium. To this end, we have characterized the sterols of Togula jolla, one of the few members of Togula available for study, to demonstrate the production of amphisterol, among other Δ8(14)‐nuclear unsaturated sterols, as its major sterol.
Diet‐Induced Obesity in the Rat Impairs Sphingolipid Metabolism in the Brain and This Metabolic Dysfunction Is Transmitted to the Offspring via Both the Maternal and the Paternal Lineage
Authors: Santillán Juan Antonio García , Mezo‐González Carla Elena , Gourdel Mathilde , Croyal Mikaël , Bolaños‐Jiménez Francisco
Published: January 2025

Obesity leads to a number of health problems, including learning and memory deficits that can be passed on to the offspring via a developmental programming process. However, the mechanisms involved in the deleterious effects of obesity on cognition remain largely unknown. This study aimed to assess the impact of obesity on the production of sphingolipids (ceramides and sphingomyelins) in the brain and its relationship with the learning deficits displayed by obese individuals. We also sought to determine whether the effects of obesity on brain sphingolipid synthesis could be passed on to the offspring. Learning abilities and brain concentration of sphingolipids in male and female control and obese founder rats (F0) and their offspring (F1) were evaluated, respectively, by the novel object recognition test and by ultra‐performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry. In addition, a global lipidome profiling of the cerebral cortex and hippocampus was performed. Both male and female F0 rats showed impaired learning and increased concentrations of ceramides and sphingomyelins in the hippocampus and frontal cortex compared to their control counterparts. However, the overall lipidome profile of these brain regions did not change with obesity. Remarkably, the alterations in brain sphingolipid synthesis, as well as the cognitive impairment induced by obesity, were also present in adult F1 male rats born to obese mothers or sired by obese fathers and were associated with enhanced expression of mRNAs coding for enzymes involved in the de novo synthesis of ceramides. These results show that the cognitive deficits and impaired sphingolipid metabolism induced by obesity can be transmitted to the offspring through both the maternal and paternal lineages and suggest that an increase in the brain concentration of sphingolipids could play a causal role in the cognitive deficits associated with obesity.

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Survival of radioiodine treated hyperthyroid cats that are euthyroid and hypothyroid after treatment, and effect of levothyroxine supplementation on survival time of cats with iatrogenic hypothyroidism
Authors: Cox Sarah E. , Wakeling Jennifer , Hall Teresa , Williams Tim L.
Published: January 2025

Background

Hyperthyroid cats that are azotemic and hypothyroid after surgical or medical treatment have poor outcomes, and supplementation with levothyroxine (LT4) improves survival. However, the effect of LT4 supplementation on survival of nonazotemic, hypothyroid radioiodine (RI)‐treated hyperthyroid cats is unknown.

Hypothesis

Radioiodine treated hyperthyroid cats with iatrogenic hypothyroidism or azotemia have shorter survival times than euthyroid, nonazotemic cats and supplementation of LT4 improves survival times of hypothyroid cats.

Animals

One hundred seventeen RI treated hyperthyroid cats.

Methods

Prospective cohort study. Radioiodine treated cats were screened for azotemia and iatrogenic hypothyroidism using TSH stimulation test; LT4 supplementation was offered to all hypothyroid cats with decision to treat based on owner preference. The log rank test was used to compare survival times between groups, and the Mann‐Whitney U test was used to compare age and renal variables. Data are presented as median [range].

Results

Euthyroid azotemic cats (934 [759‐2035] days) and nonsupplemented hypothyroid cats (azotemic and nonazotemic combined, 1232 [238‐2363] days) had shorter survival times than euthyroid nonazotemic cats (1616 [663‐3369] days, P = .003 and P = .002, respectively). Levothyroxine supplemented hypothyroid nonazotemic cats had longer survival times than nonsupplemented hypothyroid nonazotemic cats (1037 [300‐2401] days vs 768 [34‐1014] days; P = .027). Levothyroxine supplementation was not associated with prolonged survival times in hypothyroid azotemic cats vs nonsupplemented hypothyroid azotemic cats (771 [718‐1558] days vs 152 [82‐1852] days, respectively, P = .991).

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Levothyroxine supplementation in nonazotemic cats with iatrogenic hypothyroidism (diagnosed based on TSH stimulation test results) improved survival times, although randomized controlled trials are needed.
CM carbonaceous chondrite petrofabrics and their implications for understanding the relative chronologies of parent body deformation and aqueous alteration
Authors: Floyd C. J. , Jenkins L. E. , Martin P.‐E. , Daly L. , Lee M. R.
Published: January 2025

CM chondrites have been subjected to numerous alteration processes including brecciation and ductile deformation. Here, we present the results of 2D and 3D petrofabric analysis across a suite of meteorites: Aguas Zarcas, Cold Bokkeveld, Lewis Cliff (LEW) 85311, Murchison, and Winchcombe. We find that chondrule‐defined petrofabrics are commonplace, but not ubiquitous. Where petrofabrics are present, alignment is typically observed in the chondrule long axes defining foliation fabrics. Alongside previous authors we interpolate the shock pressures to generate such fabrics between 27.8 and 41.8 GPa. Impacts capable of generating these shock pressures should ordinarily produce shock microstructures in olivine something not observed in the CMs. Whilst high calculated pre‐compaction porosities may have had a role in attenuating energy transfer during collisions, we suggest the assumption of chondrule sphericity used in these calculations is misplaced and that a non‐spherical pre‐deformation chondrule shape is likely responsible for the dichotomy. We also reveal that the relative timings of aqueous alteration, brecciation, and deformation vary between CMs. Within Aguas Zarcas, we find multiple lithic clasts interpreted as having experienced different degrees of aqueous alteration, with opposing fabrics that formed after water/rock interaction but prior to brecciation. Meanwhile, within Cold Bokkeveld, we find a consistent fabric between clasts suggesting the fabric was imposed after both aqueous alteration and brecciation.
Shifting Student Attitudes of Gerontology Nursing: A Quasi‐Experimental Evaluation of a Clinical Educator Programme
Authors: Cutmore Ellie , Henderson Amanda
Published: January 2025

Background

Enduring shortages in the gerontology nursing workforce are projected to increase as demand for services for older persons grows. Recruitment of Registered Nurses in gerontology is further hindered by negative perceptions held by students towards nursing older people.

Aim

To determine whether a professional development activity designed to assist clinical supervisors to build the mentorship capacity of care staff in residential aged care facilities could positively improve their clinical learning environment and improve student attitudes towards working with older adults.

Design

A quasi‐experimental, non‐equivalent pretest–posttest control group design.

Settings

Clinical settings in which participants were undertaking an older person–focused clinical placement.

Participants

A purposive sample of 466 first‐year undergraduate nursing students. Forty‐seven students responded to both the pre‐ and post‐placement surveys.

Methods

The intervention comprised four professional development sessions delivered to clinical supervisors supervising nursing students during clinical placement across three residential aged care facilities. Pre‐ and post‐placement surveys measured Student Perceptions of Working with Older People (SPWOP). The modified Clinical Learning Environment Inventory (CLEI) was included in the post‐placement survey to measure student perceptions of the clinical placement learning environment.

Results

Control group participants reported higher pre‐placement SPWOP scores yet showed no significant improvement in score post‐placement; however, the intervention group reported a statistically significant increase in SPWOP score post‐placement. Modified CLEI results revealed the control group reported higher levels of engagement in the learning environment, yet the intervention group reported greater motivation to learn.

Conclusions

An intervention designed to build staff mentorship capacity in gerontology care settings can positively influence student perceptions of working in gerontology. Despite these positive gains, results indicated that students who undertook placement at the intervention sites were less engaged. This disparity illuminates the need for continued efforts to build staff mentorship capacity in older person–focused clinical learning environments to improve student experiences and perceptions of gerontology nursing.

Implications for Practice

Further research that engages directly with unregulated healthcare workers in geronotological care settings could provide new insights into what this cohort need to become effective mentors and shift student nurse attitudes towards caring for older adults.
Parametric Assessment of Size and Peak Pressure Variability for Cavitation Bubbles Induced by Low-Voltage Discharge
Authors: Bourgeois Janika , Cara Axelle , Savard Justine , Buron Jean-David , Houde Sébastien
Published: January 2025

Cavitation presents a significant challenge in the operation and longevity of hydraulic machinery. Studying a single cavitation bubble can provide fundamental insights into the phenomenon. One simple and popular method to generate such bubbles is through a low-voltage discharge between two contacting electrodes to create a spark that locally vaporizes water. This study investigates the repeatability of low-voltage discharge in generating consistent bubbles. The electrode length is one parameter that influences the bubble size. However, the excess length (the electrode length after the contact point) is shown to be the primary variable influencing the bubble size rather than the total electrode length. Additionally, even for bubbles of similar size, significant variability in wall pressure peaks was observed for bubbles generated far from the surface. This variability correlates with the time the electrodes require to melt and break. Longer melting times are associated with extended bubble lifetimes and lower pressure peaks.
Detached Eddy Simulation of Micro-Vortex Generators Mounted on NACA 4412 Airfoil
Authors: Khare Abhishek , Khurana Shashank
Published: January 2025

Micro-vortex generators (MVGs) are simple vane-type devices installed on surfaces , i.e., aircraft wing and tail, to control boundary layer flow separation. They are cost-effective and require an efficient numerical method to resolve the embedded longitudinal vortical structure, as the flow behind them is highly unsteady. This numerical study aims at analyzing the effect of MVGs on the NACA 4412 airfoil performance using the detached eddy simulation (DES) at 60,000 Reynolds number based on the freestream velocity of 11 m/s and the wing chord of 0.1 meter. The MVGs are installed in a row in counter-rotating configuration at 10% chord of the airfoil. The DES is utilized to resolve the high energetic scales of the vortex behind the MVGs which Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes (RANS) is not likely to resolve properly. A comparison of DES simulations with the RANS simulations shows that RANS modeling is not sufficient to capture the airfoil flow characteristics at higher angles of attack. The DES simulations resolve the turbulent scales downstream of the MVGs effectively and produce significant improvement in NACA 4412 wing performance. It has been observed that airfoil lift coefficient at 10 deg angle of attack with the MVGs is 5% higher than the airfoil without MVGs. MVGs along the airfoil chordwise location demonstrate that MVGs at 25% chord are more effective in managing separation over the airfoil compared to those at 10% chord location.
Research on the Accelerated Life Test Method for Gaskets and the Verification of the Accuracy of the Life Prediction
Authors: Fu Xiaole , Wang Bo , Su Chaopeng , Shao Chunlei
Published: January 2025

Bolted flanged connections are widely used in the petroleum and chemical industries. The gasket is the core component of bolted flanged connections. Accurate prediction of the gasket life is of great significance for the efficient, continuous, safe, and long-term operation of the device. The gasket accelerated life prediction method is a method for predicting gasket life developed in recent years. However, the accuracy of gasket life predicted by this method has not been studied so far. In order to verify the accuracy of the gasket accelerated life prediction method, a verification model for the accuracy of gasket life prediction was proposed in this study. The maximum accelerated stress level of gasket was determined through tests, and the accelerated life test and long-term sealing performance test were carried out. The hypothesis check of the gasket life distribution, consistency check of the shape parameters, and model parameter estimation of the accelerated life equation were carried out based on the measured data. All parameters of the life verification model (LVM) were obtained. On this basis, the life estimation values of the gasket accelerated life prediction model (ALPM) and the life verification model were compared under multiple groups of normal stress levels. The results show that the error time between the prediction model and the verification model does not exceed 720 h, which verifies the accuracy of the gasket accelerated life prediction method.
Adjoint Error Correction on Unstructured Finite Volume Solvers
Authors: Jayasankar Akhil , Ollivier-Gooch Carl
Published: January 2025

One of the major applications of the adjoint method is the improvement in the order of accuracy of integral quantities obtained from CFD simulations. Although the theory requires the use of a smooth interpolation of the solution, this has seldom been used with unstructured finite volume solvers. In this paper, the adjoint based correction is applied to output functionals obtained using finite volume method on unstructured meshes. A smoothing spline based on a C1 continuous representation of the discrete solution is employed to reduce the random noise in the solution and to improve the rate of convergence of the derivatives. Tests performed on randomly perturbed meshes in 1-D showed fourth-order convergence of output functionals obtained from second-order solution, corrected using the truncation error obtained using the smoothing spline and second-order accurate adjoint solution. The extension of this method to 2-D problems showed superconvergence for output functionals and improvements over existing results.
Perceived Team Motivational Climate, Athletic Identity, and Academic Endeavors Among High School Athletes
Authors: Chamberlin Jacob M. , Fry Mary D. , Long Haiying , Iwasaki Susumu
Published: January 2025

The purpose of this study was to examine whether athletes’ perceptions of a caring (C) and task-involving (TI) sport climate significantly predict their career decision self-efficacy; career exploration and engagement; academic support from coaches and teammates; and athletic and academic identity, after controlling for athletes’ demographic information. High school athletes (N = 228; 75 females and 146 males) completed a survey that included the measures of interest. A series of hierarchical regression analyses revealed that students’ perceptions of a C/TI climate were positive predictors of their career decision self-efficacy (TI), academic identify (TI), and coach support of their academics (C/TI). The findings of this study build on the work of Poux and Fry published in 2015 with college athletes. When coaches foster a C/TI climate, they may be promoting holistic development of their athletes by encouraging them to invest in their academic program and prepare for future careers.
Association of gross domestic product with equitable access to childhood vaccines in 195 countries: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Dinga Jerome Nyhalah , Akinbobola Jones Soladoye , Afolayan Funmilayo Ibitayo Deborah , Njoh Andreas Ateke , Kassa Tesfaye , Lazarus David Dazhia , Dieye Yakhya , Kassa Gezahegne Mamo , Duedu Kwabena Obeng , Tshifhiwa Nefefe , Oumouna Mustapha
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Gross domestic product (GDP) has been shown to affect government spending on various budget heads including healthcare and the purchase and distribution of vaccines. This vulnerable situation has been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic which disrupted and exposed the fragile nature of equitable access to vaccines for childhood immunisation globally. A systematic review and meta-analysis to assess the association of country income status and GDP with vaccination coverage of vaccines for childhood immunisation and other major infectious diseases around the globe will inform global and national policy on equity in living standards and vaccine uptake. This study was carried out to identify factors influenced by GDP that affect access, distribution, and uptake of childhood vaccines around the world using a systematic review and meta-analysis approach.

Methods

Data were extracted for the burden of major infectious diseases of childhood immunisation programmes, factors affecting access to vaccines, vaccine procurement platforms, vaccination coverage and percentage of GDP used for the procurement of vaccines. Factors influencing the global vaccination coverage rate were also assessed. The protocol was registered on PROSPERO (ID: CRD42022350418) and carried out using Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines.

Results

Data from 195 countries showed that the following infectious diseases had the highest burden; human papillomavirus (HPV), measles, Ebola and yellow fever. Low-income and some lower-middle-income countries (LMICs) used COVAX and UNICEF for vaccine procurement while high-income countries (HICs) preferred national and regional public tenders. Global vaccination coverage for tuberculosis, diphtheria/tetanus/pertussis, hepatitis B,Haemophilus influenzaetype b, measles, polio, meningitis and HPV had a significantly higher coverage than COVID-19. Being an HIC and having coverage data collected from 1985 to 2015 as the most current data were associated with high vaccination coverage. The percentage of GDP spent on vaccine procurement did not influence vaccination coverage.

Conclusion

Low-income countries and LMICs should prioritise vaccine research and improve on development capacity. Countries worldwide should share data on vaccine expenditure, vaccination coverage, and the development and introduction of new vaccines and technologies to facilitate equitable vaccine access.
Optical limiting performance of silver, gold, and silver–gold nanomaterials
Authors: Salah Abeer , Helayl Shaimaa , Badr Yehia , Hassab-Elnaby Salah
Published: January 2025

This study used a chemical reduction technique to create metallic nanomaterials made of silver (AgNPs), gold (AuNPs), and composite silver–gold nanocomposite (Ag–AuNPs). The spherical shape of the obtained AgNPs and AuNPs, with average diameters of approximately 12[Formula: see text]nm and 15[Formula: see text]nm, respectively, was confirmed by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) examination. AgNPs and AuNPs both showed plasmonic absorption peaks at 405[Formula: see text]nm and 525[Formula: see text]nm, respectively. Upon the formation of the composite material, the plasmonic absorption peaks remained consistent, indicating both metallic Ag and Au nanoparticles. The nonlinear absorption coefficient [Formula: see text] values and signs were determined using an open aperture [Formula: see text]-scan setup. Positive nonlinear absorption coefficients were calculated for AgNPs, AuNPs, and Ag–AuNPs, indicating the materials’ potential for effective optical limiting. The Ag–AuNPs exhibited a combination of Ag and Au nanoparticle nonlinearities, further enhancing their suitability as candidates for optical limiting applications. Overall, the well-defined features of the synthesized Ag, Au, and Ag–Au nanocomposites, along with their favorable nonlinear absorption coefficients, highlight their promising prospects as optical limiting materials.
An efficient Chebyshev wavelet collocation technique for the time-fractional Camassa–Holm equation
Authors: Aghazadeh Nasser
Published: January 2025

By employing the third-order Chebyshev collocation technique along with relevant wavelets, we tackle a third-order singular fractional partial differential equation (PDE). We directly build the Chebyshev operation matrix of the third kind, avoiding the use of the block-pulse function or any approximations. To reduce the order of equation in this approach, we transform the higher-order PDEs into a system of PDEs. Next, we utilize the third-kind Chebyshev wavelet collocation method to convert the resulting system from the prior step into a set of algebraic equations. To demonstrate the method’s effectiveness, we apply it to the time-fractional Camassa–Holm equation and a third-order time-singular PDE. The outcomes are compared with those from several established methods to illustrate the method’s efficiency and practicality.
Observational constraints on quintessence dark energy: A model-independent approach
Authors: Beesham A.
Published: January 2025

The nature of dark energy remains one of the most profound questions in modern cosmology. Among the various candidates, quintessence — a dynamic scalar field with time-varying energy density — offers a promising alternative to the cosmological constant, potentially addressing the challenges posed by the accelerating expansion of the universe. This work employs a model-independent approach to analyze the evolution of quintessential dark energy, providing observational constraints without the assumptions typically imposed by specific cosmological models. Using an extensive dataset from recent observations, we derive constraints on the quintessential potential and its evolution over cosmic time, revealing insights into the dynamics of the field and the interplay between dark energy and matter. Our results support a non-static dark energy behavior that aligns with the cosmic expansion history and suggests possible deviations from the standard Lambda Cold Dark Matter ([Formula: see text]CDM) model. This study opens pathways for future observations to test quintessence models more rigorously, contributing to a deeper understanding of the role of dark energy in the past, present, and future of the universe.
Parameter Estimation and Hypothesis Testing of Truncated Normal Uncertainty Distribution for Nonnegative Variables
Authors: Feng Tuo , Liu Yang
Published: January 2025

Nonnegative variables exist widely in the renewal processes such as queueing process, insurance process, and production process and play an important role in the practical application of related fields. As a powerful tool for modeling nonnegative variables, this paper gives a form of truncated normal uncertainty distribution, and gives the expressions or calculation formulas of its inverse uncertainty distribution, expected value, variance, and moments. In order to better apply the truncated normal uncertainty distribution to practice, this paper also studies the parameter estimation of the truncated normal uncertainty distribution based on the method of moments, the method of maximum likelihood and the method of least squares, and derives the rejection region of the corresponding hypothesis testing. Finally, this paper also illustrates the above results with two real data examples.
Long-term hemodynamic responses and reverse remodeling after pharmacotherapy in HFpEF versus HFrEF: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: van de Bovenkamp Arno A. , Nassiri Soufiane , Bakermans Adrianus J. , Burchell George L. , de Man Frances S. , van Loon Ramon B. , Handoko M. Louis
Published: January 2025

In contrast to acute responses, long-term treatment exerted little long-term afterload reduction and stroke volume augmentation in both HFpEF and HFrEF. Reverse remodeling was clearly present in HFrEF but was hardly observed in HFpEF. These results suggest a lesser importance of any increase in stroke volume (due afterload reduction) compared with reverse remodeling in the long-term effects of heart failure medication.
Estradiol levels are differentially associated with pulse wave velocity in trauma-exposed premenopausal women with and without PTSD
Authors: Corbin Chasity , Tahmin Chowdhury Ibtida , Tahsin Chowdhury Tasnova , Ahmed Zynab , Wattero Redeat , Mohamed Azhaar , Racette Susan B. , Duprez Daniel , Fonkoue Ida T.
Published: January 2025

In trauma-exposed premenopausal women, we found that serum estradiol (E2) was a predictor of pulse wave velocity (PWV) only in the absence of a posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) diagnosis, even after accounting for the phase of the menstrual cycle, age, body mass index, diastolic blood pressure, and PTSD symptom severity. Moreover, E2 levels were lower in women with PTSD than in those without PTSD. We collected E2 and PWV during two separate visits and controlled for the menstrual cycle phase in our analyses.
Recycling Nd Magnet Scraps to Synthesize Carbon‐Swaddled Fe3O4 Anode Material for Lithium‐Ion Battery
Authors: Jin Yun-Ho , Hwang Suk-Ho , Dar Mushtaq Ahmad , Kim Dae-Weon , Kim Dong-Wan
Published: January 2025

This study explores the innovative recycling of neodymium (Nd) permanent magnet scrap to synthesize Fe3O4, a high‐capacity anode material for secondary batteries, by leveraging the Fe oxalate solution produced during recycling. The traditional process of recovering Fe from permanent magnets in the form of oxides produces products with limited economic viability and usability. For the first time, we have successfully synthesized Fe3O4 as an anode material for lithium‐ion (Li‐ion) secondary batteries from scrap Nd magnets. We address the existing challenge by employing a novel approach: hydrothermal synthesis of crystalline FeC2O4·2H2O from the Fe leachate, extracted via oxalic acid leaching from a mixed phase of NdF3‐Fe2O3 controlled during fluorination heat treatment while recycling. The recovered FeC2O4·2H2O is subsequently phase‐transferred to Fe3O4 under an Ar atmosphere. To overcome the inherent low conductivity and rate capability of Fe3O4, a carbon‐coating process utilizing dopamine HCl is implemented. The developed C‐Fe3O4 anode material exhibits a significant capacity retention of 428 mAh/g after 500 cycles at 1C, showcasing its potential for use in high‐performance secondary batteries and contributing to the sustainable recycling of critical materials.
Translation, Adaptation, and Validation in Portuguese of an Acceptance Scale for Human–Robot Interaction in an Industrial Context
Authors: Pinto Ana , Lemos Leticia , Carvalho Carla , Santos Joana , Menezes Paulo , Nomura Tatsuya
Published: January 2025

Industry 4.0, characterized by the integration of advanced technologies across various industrial domains, is now evolving into Industry 5.0, which emphasizes the human perspective, resilience, and sustainability. In this context, the study of human behavior and attitudes towards human–robot interaction (HRI) is crucial for understanding the acceptance of this emerging technology, which, in turn, can drive the development of more well‐designed industrial robotic systems. This paper is aimed at translating, adapting, and validating a scale designed to measure acceptance in the context of HRI within industrial settings, with a focus on collaborative robots (cobots). To conduct an exploratory factor analysis (EFA), 140 participants (male = 45%, female = 52%, and nonbinary = 3%) were recruited. The results revealed a four‐factor structure for the Frankenstein Syndrome Questionnaire–Industrial Context (FSQ‐IC): “general anxiety towards cobots” (α = 0.87), “trustworthiness towards developers of cobots” (α = 0.83), “apprehension towards cobots in the industrial context” (α = 0.73), and “expectation of cobots in social change” (α = 0.69). For further validation and to help ensure the validity and reliability of the adapted scale, a confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was conducted with a sample of 210 participants (male = 45%, female = 53%, and nonbinary = 2%). The model fit indices, including a χ2/df of 3.14 and root mean square error of approximation (RMSEA) of 0.10, indicated an acceptable fit. The goodness‐of‐fit index (GFI), comparative fit index (CFI), and normed fit index (NFI) were 0.88, 0.90, and 0.86, respectively, all within acceptable ranges. Convergent and discriminant validities were also analyzed. An analysis of the differences in perceptions of acceptance based on sociodemographic variables (gender, experience with robots, educational level, and age) was conducted. Only gender revealed significant differences. Considering the psychometric qualities of the instrument, the FSQ‐IC is valid and reliable for assessing acceptance in HRI.
Social Prescribing for Children and Youth: A Scoping Review
Authors: Muhl Caitlin , Cornish Eleanor , Zhou Xin Ang , Mulligan Kate , Bayoumi Imaan , Ashcroft Rachelle , Ross-White Amanda , Godfrey Christina
Published: January 2025

Social prescribing is gaining traction globally, with over 30 countries involved in the social prescribing movement. This holistic approach to health and well‐being is relevant to all ages, but it is especially important for children and youth. While this population has largely been neglected in social prescribing efforts, several evaluations of social prescribing programs specifically targeting this population have emerged in recent years, which calls for a review of the evidence on this topic. Thus, the objective of this scoping review was to map the evidence on the use of social prescribing for children and youth. This review was conducted in accordance with the JBI methodology for scoping reviews and reported in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta‐Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA‐ScR). The search strategy aimed to locate both published and unpublished literature via 12 databases, Google, Google Scholar, Social Care Online, SIREN Evidence and Resource Library, websites of social prescribing organizations and networks, and a request for evidence sources to members of the International Social Prescribing Collaborative. No language or date restrictions were placed on the search. Two independent reviewers performed title and abstract screening, retrieval and assessment of full‐text evidence sources, and data extraction. Data analysis consisted of basic descriptive analysis. Nine studies met the inclusion criteria, including three mixed methods studies, two rapid evidence reviews, two qualitative studies, one uncontrolled before‐and‐after study, and one randomized clinical trial. All studies were published between 2020 and 2024. Evidently, social prescribing for children and youth is still in its infancy, with an evidence base that is limited in both quantity and quality. However, the existing evidence is promising, offering a starting point to build a robust evidence base, which calls for research and practice advancements in social prescribing for children and youth.
Assessment of Genetic Variability for Yield and Yield‐Contributing Traits in Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) Genotypes
Authors: Yami Abera Seboka , Abtew Wosene Gebreselassie
Published: January 2025

The present study was conducted to evaluate the genetic variability of yield and yield‐contributing traits in groundnut genotypes. The experiment was conducted in a simple lattice design. ANOVA revealed significant differences among the genotypes. High PCV and GCV were recorded for most of the traits, indicating these characteristics could be used as selection indices. The kernel yield per ha was significantly positive for all traits except days to 50% flowering and maturity. High to moderate heritability, along with high to medium genetic advance was obtained for oil content, days to maturity, days to 50% flowering, plant height, shelling percentage, 100SW, number of mature pods per plant, kernel yield, seed weight per plant, and harvest index. The results of the cluster analysis of the tested groundnut genotypes were grouped into three major clusters. The highest intercluster distance D2 was recorded between clusters I and III at 1690.78, followed by clusters II and III at 1198.27. Principal component analysis resulted in four principal components with eigenvalues greater than one. The first four principal components explained 77.92% of the total variation. The existence of the highest intercluster distance indicates that there is variability, which creates an opportunity for improvement.
First-in-Human Clinical Trial of a Small-Molecule EBNA1 Inhibitor, VK-2019, in Patients with Epstein-Barr–Positive Nasopharyngeal Cancer, with Pharmacokinetic and Pharmacodynamic Studies
Authors: Colevas A. Dimitrios , Talebi Zahra , Winters Elizabeth , Even Caroline , Lee Victor Ho-Fun , Gillison Maura L. , Khan Saad A. , Lu Rong , Pinsky Benjamin A. , Soldan Samantha S. , Vladmirova Olga , Lieberman Paul M. , Messick Troy E.
Published: January 2025

Purpose:

A first-in-human phase I study was conducted in patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma to assess the safety and tolerability of VK-2019, a small-molecule selective inhibitor of Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) nuclear antigen 1 (EBNA1).

Patients and Methods:

Pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic studies were performed, including the measurement of EBV DNA plasma levels. Twenty-three patients received VK-2019 orally once daily at doses ranging from 60 to 1,800 mg using an accelerated titration design, with cohort expansion at 1,800 mg. EBV genome copy number and spatial transcriptomic analyses were conducted on biopsies collected from three patients at baseline and after treatment.

Results:

VK-2019 was well tolerated. One patient achieved a partial response. Pharmacokinetic results demonstrated good systemic exposure, with high intersubject variability. Decreases in EBV DNA plasma levels were observed in some patients. VK-2019 reduced EBV genome copy number and viral gene expression in patient tumor samples and induced changes in immune cell markers.

Conclusions:

VK-2019 at dosages up to 1,800 mg daily demonstrated an acceptable safety profile, achieved micromolar plasma concentrations, and showed on-target biological activity in tumors from patients with advanced EBV-positive nasopharyngeal carcinoma.
O warsztacie leksykograficznym Johannesa Reuchlina
Authors: Lenartowicz-Zagrodna Anna
Published: January 2025

On the Lexicographic Workshop of Johannes Reuchlin
The work of Johannes Reuchlin Vocabularius breviloquus is an important milestone in the history of lexicography. Frequently reissued, it stimulated readers to contemplate the relationships between the Latin and national languages. This is evidenced by copies with Czech or German glosses; one of the copies of the dictionary belonged to Bartholomeus de Bydgostia, who added Polish glosses to some entries – this is how the work containing the most Polish words of that time was created. So far, Reuchlin’s Vocabularius has not attracted significant attention from Polish linguists, although examining this source could yield new insights into Bartholomeus himself, the significance of his achievements, his working methods, as well as the quality of the Polish language and its equivalence. The aim of this study is to provide an initial exploration of the Vocabularius, namely, to present general information about this work, situate it within the tradition of lexicography, and showcase the dictionary itself, its content and the nature of its lexical layer (on selected examples).
 
O warsztacie leksykograficznym Johannesa Reuchlina
Dzieło Johannesa Reuchlina Vocabularius breviloquus stanowi ważne ogniwo w dziejach leksykografii. Wielokrotnie wznawiane, pobudzało czytelników do rozważań nad relacjami między łaciną a językami narodowymi. Świadczą o tym egzemplarze z glosami czeskimi czy niemieckimi; jeden z egzemplarzy dzieła był własnością Bartłomieja z Bydgoszczy, który dodał do niektórych haseł polskie glosy – tak powstało najobszerniejsze świadectwo zasobów leksykalnych ówczesnej polszczyzny. Vocabularius Reuchlina nie cieszył się dotychczas szczególnym zainteresowaniem polskich językoznawców, choć zbadanie tego źródła może przynieść nowe wnioski na temat samego Bartłomieja, rangi jego dokonań, sposobu pracy czy też jakości polszczyzny i ekwiwalencji. Celem niniejszego opracowania jest wstępne rozpoznanie Vocabulariusa, mianowicie: przedstawienie ogólnych informacji o tym dziele, umiejscowienie go na tle tradycji leksykograficznej, zaprezentowanie samego słownika, jego zawartości i charakteru warstwy leksykalnej (na wybranych przykładach).