bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Natural selection and adaptive traits in the Maniq, a nomadic hunter-gatherer society from Mainland Southeast Asia
Authors: Herzog Tobias , Larena Maximilian , Kutanan Wibhu , Lukas Helmut , Fieder Martin , Schaschl Helmut
Published: February 2025

Asia is home to diverse hunter-gatherer populations characterized by significant morphological, anthropological, cultural, and linguistic diversity. Despite their importance in understanding ancestral human subsistence, little is known about the essential genetic adaptations of these groups. This study investigates the evolutionary pressures shaping the genome of the Maniq population, a nomadic hunter-gatherer group inhabiting the rainforests of southern Thailand. Using genome-wide approaches, including iHS, xp-EHH, PBE, and beta statistics, we identified signatures of positive and balancing selection. Genes under positive selection were enriched in pathways related to immunity, metabolic regulation, structural adaptation, cardiovascular performance, and neuromodulatory traits. Several genes associated with the Southeast Asian ‘negrito-like’ phenotype were also under positive selection. Balancing selection was primarily detected in immune-related genes, particularly within the HLA region, underscoring the critical role of genetic diversity in surviving pathogen-rich environments. Additionally, balancing selection in olfactory receptor genes highlights their importance in environmental sensing and adaptation. These results reveal the intricate interplay of positive and balancing selection in shaping the genetic landscape of the Maniq population and highlight their adaptations to the ecological and lifestyle challenges of life in the rainforest. This study contributes to our understanding of human evolutionary processes in tropical environments and hunter-gatherer societies.
Tracking the genetic diversity of SARS-CoV-2 variants in Nicaragua throughout the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Alemán Gerald Vásquez , Cerpas Cristhiam , Juarez Jose G. , Moreira Hanny , Arguello Sonia , Coloma Josefina , Harris Eva , Gordon Aubree , Bennett Shannon N. , Balmaseda Ángel
Published: February 2025

The global circulation of SARS-CoV-2 has been extensively documented; however, the dynamics within Central America, particularly Nicaragua, remain underexplored. This study characterizes the genomic diversity of SARS-CoV-2 in Nicaragua from March 2020 through December 2022, utilizing 1064 genomes obtained via next-generation sequencing. These sequences were selected nationwide and analyzed for variant classification, lineage predominance, and phylogenetic diversity. We employed both Illumina and Oxford Nanopore Technologies for all sequencing procedures. Results indicated a temporal and spatial shift in dominant lineages, initially from B.1 and A.2 in early 2020 to various Omicron subvariants toward the study’s end. Significant lineage shifts correlated with changes in COVID-19 positivity rates, underscoring the epidemiological impact of variant dissemination. Comparative analysis with regional data underscored the low diversity of circulating lineages in Nicaragua and their delayed introduction compared to other countries in the Central American region. The study also linked specific viral mutations with hospitalization rates, emphasizing the clinical relevance of genomic surveillance. This research advances the understanding of SARS-CoV-2 evolution in Nicaragua and provides valuable information regarding its genetic diversity for public health officials in Central America. We highlight the critical role of ongoing genomic surveillance in identifying emergent lineages and informing public health strategies.
Full-length inhibitor protein is the most effective to perturb human dUTPase activity
Authors: Kőhegyi Bianka , Tóth Zoé S. , Gál Enikő , Laczkovich Máté , Benedek András , Vértessy Beáta G. , Nyíri Kinga
Published: February 2025

It has been demonstrated recently that knockout of the dUTPase enzyme leads to early embryonic lethality in mice. However, to explore the physiological processes arising upon the lack of dUTPase an effective and selective enzyme inhibitor is much needed. A highly specific and strong binding proteinaceous human dUTPase inhibitor described by us recently was a promising starting point to develop a molecular tool to study temporal and conditional dUTPase inhibition in cellulo. Towards this end we determined the 3D crystal structure of the crystallizable amino terminal domain of inhibitor protein, named StlNT in complex with the human dUTPase and designed several point mutants based on the structure to improve the inhibition effectivity. The effect of StlNT and a peptide derived from the full-length inhibitor on the activity of the human dUTPase was also tested. We showed that the C-terminal part of the Stl protein omitted from the crystal structure has an important role in the enzyme inhibition as the full-length Stl is needed to exert maximal inhibition on the human dUTPase.
Diabetic retinopathy further increases risk of cardiovascular disease mortality in a high-risk cohort
Authors: Kha Richard , Kapucu Yasemin , Indrakumar Mayuri , Burlutsky George , Thiagalingam Aravinda , Kovoor Pramesh , Mitchell Paul , Liew Gerald
Published: February 2025

Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is the most common microvascular complication of diabetes and is strongly linked with systemic vascular comorbidities. This study investigated if DR predicts risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) mortality in a high CVD risk cohort. This was a prospective cohort study of 1582 adult participants who presented to a tertiary Australian hospital for evaluation of acute coronary syndrome by coronary angiography. Participants were concurrently examined for DR from mydriatic fundus photographs which were mask-graded according to International Clinical Classification categories of no DR, mild non-proliferative DR, moderate-to-severe NPDR, and proliferative DR. Coronary artery disease was graded from coronary angiograms using the Gensini score. CVD mortality follow-up was assessed 9 years after baseline examination using linkage with the Australian National Death Index. At baseline, 355 (22.4%) participants had any DR. There were 181 (11.4%) fatal CVD events after 9-years follow-up. After controlling for age, sex, BMI, diabetes, total cholesterol, smoking status, hypertension, previous myocardial infarction and stroke, any DR was associated with 1.8-fold higher risk of CVD mortality (Hazard Ratio [HR] 1.84, 95% Confidence Interval [95% CI: 1.30–2.61]). Mild non-proliferative DR (1.85 [1.26–2.72]) and proliferative DR (5.27 [2.32–12.00]) were associated with greater CVD mortality risk. Further adjustment for coronary artery disease using Gensini scores and excluding patients without diabetes had minimal impact on the association. The increased risk of CVD mortality was significant in both men (2.25 [1.60–3.19]) and women (2.38 [1.24–4.58]) with any DR. In individuals with high CVD risk, presence of DR independently predicts increased CVD mortality. This likely reflects additional contribution of microvascular disease to CVD mortality. Individuals with DR may benefit from a comprehensive cardiovascular risk assessment, lifestyle changes, more intensive cardiovascular management and follow-up to minimise risk of death from CVD events.
An integrated petrophysical and rock physics characterization of the Mangahewa Formation in the Pohokura field, Taranaki Basin
Authors: Hossain Shakhawat , Rahman Naymur
Published: February 2025

The Mangahewa Formation in the Pohokura gas field, Taranaki Basin, is a key reservoir for gas production in New Zealand, yet its deep and heterogeneous nature presents challenges for accurate reservoir characterization. While prior studies have explored aspects of the Mangahewa Formation such as lithology, fluid composition, and petrophysical properties, the interrelationships between these factors and their impact on hydrocarbon production remain underexamined. This study integrates detailed petrophysical and rock physics analyses to overcome these challenges. Petrophysical evaluation, based on well log data from depths of 3200–4000 m, reveals net reservoir thicknesses ranging from 164 to 479 m, with total porosity between 17 and 21% and effective porosity between 8 and 19%. Shale volume and water saturation vary from 21–28 and 22–34%, respectively. Rock physics analysis was performed using Rock Physics Templates (RPTs) to model the elastic properties of the reservoir. The Mangahewa Sandstone exhibits elastic properties consistent with the stiff sand model, with compressional sonic velocities ranging from 4100 to 5000 m/s. High correlations were achieved between measured and modeled velocities, with 97% for VP and 94% for VS. These models enabled the estimation of porosity from seismic-derived acoustic impedance, providing valuable insights in areas with limited well control. Furthermore, the RPTs effectively differentiated between gas sand, water sand, and shale facies, minimizing uncertainties in fluid and lithology prediction. These results provide a comprehensive understanding of the Mangahewa Formation, enhancing hydrocarbon prospect evaluation and supporting further exploration and development in the Pohokura field.
Prevalence of fatigue and perceived fatigability in older adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Hu Ting , Wang Feiling , Duan Qiuchen , Zhao Xueyang , Yang Fen
Published: February 2025

Fatigue is a common health complaint in older adults, but its prevalence varies widely among studies due to differences in populations and assessment tools. The objective of this review is to systematically evaluate the prevalence of fatigue and perceived fatigability in older adults with PRISMA 2020. Four databases—PubMed, Embase, Web of Science (WoS), and Cochrane Library—were systematically searched as of December 27, 2023. Cochrane Q tests and the I

2
statistic were used using Stata16.0 to assess between-study heterogeneity. A total of 21 studies involving 17843 participants were included in this study. The prevalence of fatigue in older adults was 42.6%, and the prevalence of perceived physical fatigability and mental fatigability was 58.2% and 24.0%. Meta-analysis showed that the prevalence of perceived physical fatigability among older adults was very high. This prevalence varied with regional economic development level, age of the subjects, sample size, and representativeness of the subjects. Fatigue is a health dilemma faced by most older adults. To improve quality of life, early and regular fatigue assessment should be part of routine health screening for older adults.
Electron doping in non-magnetic YH3 leads to room temperature ferromagnetism and a flat band: insights from density functional theory
Authors: Mane Pratap , Trivedi Ravi Kumar , Velusamy Parthasarathy , Chakraborty Brahmananda
Published: February 2025

DFT-calculated enthalpy as a function of pressure for DFT-GGA calculations in the pressure range of 0–25 GPa for BH3, BH5, and B-YH3.
Aromatic trails: persistence and interplay between linked spherical aromatic dicarboranes in dimer to hexamer linear arrays
Authors: Muñoz-Castro Alvaro
Published: February 2025

The consecutive crack-linking between well-defined building blocks is a plausible strategy for developing molecularly designed materials.
Multi-synergistic regulation of hard carbon via a green bioengineering strategy to achieve high-capacity sodium-ion storage
Authors: Li Min , Hu Jinbo , Xu Laiqiang , Liu Gonggang , Sun Yating , Lei Yuzhang , Zhang Xiang , Zhang Lei , Li Xianjun
Published: February 2025

An eco-friendly bioengineering strategy involving bamboo pretreatment has been put forward. The microstructure and composition of the bamboo were regulated synchronously by self-growing CV. The bamboo-derived HC delivers high capacity and ICE.
Insight into temperature dependence of the photoluminescence properties of bright orange-red BaAl4Sb2O12:Bi3+ phosphors for fluorescence thermometry
Authors: Wang Yuxin , Guo Yan , Song Yaqi , Yang Shiwei , Wu Meng , Song Jiawei , Yu Jingjie , Zhang Yanjie
Published: February 2025

The BaAl4Sb2O12:Bi3+ fluorescent powder with orange-red emission exhibits temperature-dependence for fluorescence temperature thermometry. And the fluorescent powder co-doped with Bi3+ and Eu3+ can emit white light under 395 nm excitation.
Solvent-free synthesis of bio-based N-isobutyl-5-methyloxazolidinone: an eco-friendly solvent
Authors: Fournier Antoine , Suisse Jean-Moïse , de Frémont Pierre , Andrieu Jacques
Published: February 2025

Large-scale synthesis of bio-based oxazolidinone as an eco-friendly solvent from biomass using a bio-based organocatalyst.
Spectra-based clustering of high-entropy alloy catalysts: improved insight over use of atomic structure
Authors: Li Huirong , Zhou Donglai , Smith Pieter E. S. , Sharman Edward , Xiao Hengyu , Wang Song , Huang Yan , Jiang Jun
Published: February 2025

Clustering of the spectra of CO adsorbed on high-entropy alloys AgAuCuPdPt, combined with the catalytic properties of each cluster, identified a cluster of high-entropy alloys with high selectivity for C2+ products.
Adherence to 24-Hour Movement Guidelines before and during COVID-19
in children: A review
Authors: Yan Yiping , Jia Jingjing , Liu Bei , Ke Youzhi , Liu Yang
Published: February 2025

This study aims to describe and compare adherence to the 24-Hour Movement
Guidelines (recommendations for physical activity, screen time, and sleep
duration) among children before and during COVID-19 pandemic . The literature
search was conducted on Web of Science, PubMed, MEDLINE, and SPORTDiscus for
quantitative studies on 24-hour movement behaviors, published in English. The
studies were categorized by collection date into before the pandemic (June 16th,
2016 – March 10, 2020) and during the pandemic (March 11th, 2020 – May 5, 2023),
with all studies included. A random-effects model was employed to synthesize the
adherence rates, and subgroup analyses were conducted based on age, sex, region,
and Human development index (HDI) groups. Before the pandemic, 12.1% (95%
CI:10.3%–13.9%) of overall children met the three recommendations. During the
pandemic, 8.6% (95% CI: 6.4%–11.4%) of overall children met the three
recommendations. The adherence to the three recommendations during the pandemic
was 3.5% lower (p<0.05) than before the pandemic, with significant regional
differences (p<0.05). Most children fail to meet the guidelines in any
period. The adherence to the three 24-Hour Movement Guidelines during the
pandemic was lower than before, with varying degrees of low adherence across
different groups.
Rural Youth Aspirations in the Face of Environmental, Economic and Social Pressures: Transformation in the Vietnamese Mekong Delta
Authors: Coleman Michael , Le Sang Thanh , Mao Nhu Huynh , Chau Khoi Minh , Condon Jason , Kristiansen Paul
Published: February 2025

Farming communities in the Vietnamese Mekong Delta (VMD) face a range of socio-economic and environmental pressures. With out-migration and changing career opportunities, many young people are unwilling to remain in agriculture and prefer careers elsewhere due to poor perceptions of farming as a career. To better understand the educational choices and career aspirations of rural youth in the VMD and the contextual factors affecting these choices, we used an online survey and several focus group discussions to consult university students about their selection of university major, their career aspirations, the role of climate change and other pressures, and opportunities available to alleviate these pressures. Farming itself was an unattractive career pathway, though agricultural services, research and extension were relatively popular. Climate change may reduce agricultural employment prospects, requiring some respondents to pursue other, less impacted careers. Other pressures reported included a lack of certain workplace skills; gendered differences in career prospects and sectors; inadequate personal networks; and COVID-19 economic impacts. Government and private sector initiatives may help alleviate these pressures via educational, financial and entrepreneurial support, valourising diverse career pathways, and ensuring improved inclusivity for youth in rural communities.
Financial risk and renewable energy: exploring the influence of urbanization and natural resource rents across 112 countries
Authors: Li Rongrong , Wang Qiang , Sun Jiayi
Published: February 2025

This study investigates the intricate relationship between financial risk and renewable energy consumption, incorporating the moderating effects of urbanization and natural resource rents. Utilizing a global panel dataset comprising 112 countries, the study applies econometric techniques, including fixed-effects models, moderation effect models, and panel threshold models, to investigate how varying levels of financial risk impact renewable energy consumption across diverse economic and environmental contexts. The results indicate that financial risk significantly suppresses renewable energy consumption, an effect that is further exacerbated by urbanization. At the same time, natural resource rents partially mitigate the adverse impact of financial risk. The moderating roles of both urbanization and natural resource rents jointly shape the overall effect of financial risk on renewable energy consumption. Additionally, the study identifies a single-threshold effect, where variations in urbanization and natural resource rents significantly influence the suppressive effect of financial risk. These findings emphasize the need for tailored financial strategies and urban planning policies to advance the global energy transition. The findings provide empirical support for policymakers seeking to balance economic stability with environmental sustainability, particularly in the context of emerging economies and regions heavily dependent on natural resources.
Effect of inhomogeneous wind field in mountainous area on the aerostatic stability of long-span truss suspension bridge
Authors: Pei Cheng , Bao Yuxuan , Mou Yuhao , Lin Jiwei , Cheng Xiaokang , Feng Jun
Published: February 2025

To investigate the impact of inhomogeneous wind sites on the aerostatic stability of a long-span suspension bridge in mountainous canyon terrain, this study focuses on such a bridge as its subject. Initially, extensive wind measurements were conducted at the bridge site. The data revealed significant variability in wind speed and angle of attack across the bridge’s span, highlighting the wind’s inhomogeneity. Subsequently, a nonlinear analysis method was developed to model the bridge’s static response to the inhomogeneous wind field, integrating empirical wind data and segment model tests. This method was validated through wind tunnel simulations of the inhomogeneous wind field and comprehensive aeroelastic model tests of the full bridge. The results indicate that the inhomogeneous wind field significantly affects the bridge’s aerostatic stability. These findings offer valuable insights for related studies.
A new convective heat transfer model for disk-shaped particles from flat disks to cylinders derived using direct numerical simulation and genetic algorithms
Authors: Wang Jingliang , Xiao Yi , He Chuang , Fang Qingyan , Zhang Cheng , Yin Chungen
Published: February 2025

This study investigates the convective heat transfer characteristics of disk-shaped biomass particles, a critical factor for particle heating and conversion in biomass co-firing boilers that has been underexplored in the literature. Using particle-resolved direct numerical simulation (PR-DNS), we analyze the heat transfer behavior of cold fluid flowing over heated disk particles, focusing on the effects of particle aspect ratio or height-to-diameter ratio (Ar), Reynolds number (Re), and incidence angle (θ) on the average Nusselt number (Nu). The results reveal that heat transfer efficiency is governed by the interplay between fluid dynamics and particle geometry. Increasing Reynolds numbers significantly enhances heat transfer, while incidence angle and aspect ratio further modulate efficiency by altering the particle's projected area. The optimal heat transfer occurs at an incidence angle of θ = 75°, where the average Nu exceeds that at θ = 15° by 13.81%. A novel Nusselt number correlation for disk-shaped particles is developed using genetic algorithms, accurately predicting heat transfer across a wide range of conditions: Re ≤ 2000, 0 < Ar ≤ 1 (i.e., from highly flattened disks to near-spherical cylinders) and 0° ≤ θ ≤ 90°. This model serves as a robust tool for analyzing convective heat transfer of both non-spherical and spherical particles, contributing to improved designs for biomass co-firing systems.
Using the prey captured by breeding Crested Terns to assess the availability of forage fish for other coastal meso-predators
Authors: Dunlop J. Nic , Clitheroe Erin , Chapman Donna
Published: February 2025

Context The diets of seabirds are an effective indicator of changes in forage fish abundance and availability providing insight into how changing fish stocks impact the meso-predators that consume them. Non-invasive methods for monitoring seabird diets are a valuable tool in conservation. Aims We aimed to assess the availability of forage fish that were carried by Crested Terns for the threatened Little Penguins (Eudyptula minor) and other meso-predators on Penguin Island, Western Australia. Methods We used digital photography with 400–500 mm telephoto lenses to identify prey carried to Crested Tern (Thalasseus bergii) colonies on Penguin Island during the 2021, 2022 and 2023. Results Crested Terns breeding on Penguin Island captured a wider range of prey (62 species) than recorded in other diet studies at other colonies in southern Australia and South Africa. Blue Sprat (Spratelloides robustus) and Sandy Sprat (Hyperlophus vittatus) dominated the forage fish taken by the terns in 2021 and 2022 breeding seasons with Sardines (Sardinops vagax) and Anchovies (Engraulis australis) becoming more common in 2023. Conclusions A recruitment event was recorded in Sandy Sprats in 2021 after a near record winter rainfall in the region. This recruitment event was significant as Sandy Sprats, a critical resource for Little Penguins breeding on Penguin Island, were thought to have been unavailable in local waters since a marine heatwave event in 2011. Implications Early indications were consistent with Crested Tern diet influencing Penguin breeding performance; however, this can only be confirmed with a longer time series. Ongoing monitoring of forage fish using bill-loading Crested Terns may have an important role in the future management of the Little Penguin colony on Penguin Island.
Fungal consumption by marsupials in southern Tasmania
Authors: Elliott Kelsey , Driessen Michael M. , Vernes Karl , Elliott Todd F.
Published: February 2025

In Australia, many mycophagous (fungus feeding) mammals that disperse fungal spores are extinct or threatened throughout much of their historic range. Using live-trapping, we collected scats from eastern bettongs (Bettongia gaimardi), long-nosed potoroos (Potorous tridactylus), brush-tailed possums (Trichosurus vulpecula), eastern barred bandicoots (Perameles gunnii) and southern brown bandicoots (Isoodon obesulus) at two sites in southern Tasmania. Microscopic analysis of scats revealed that all species in this study consumed fungi (over 24 fungal taxa), and the composition varied between some species and sites. This study highlights the need for additional research to gain insight into the ecological implications of spore dispersal by native marsupials.
Clinical evaluation of patterned dried plasma spot cards to support quantification of HIV viral load and reflexive genotyping
Authors: Morbioli Giorgio Gianini , Baillargeon Keith R. , Kalimashe Monalisa N. , Kana Vibha , Zwane Hloniphile , van der Walt Cheri , Tierney Allison J. , Mora Andrea C. , Goosen Mark , Jagaroo Rivashni , Brooks Jessica C. , Cutler Ewaldé , Hunt Gillian , Jordan Michael R. , Tang Alice , Mace Charles R.
Published: February 2025

Quantifying viral load, a key indicator required to achieve control and elimination of the HIV epidemic, requires cell-free plasma or serum to ensure measurements are not biased by proviral DNA contained in infected CD4 T lymphocytes. Plasma separation cards (PSC) collect and preserve a dried specimen, which makes them practical solutions for decentralized sample collection and transport in limited-resource settings. However, physiological variations in hematocrit levels can introduce significant variability in the quality of plasma generated by commercial PSCs and can lead to inaccurate test results and clinical decisions. In addition to hematocrit-dependent sampling, the Roche PSC, a standard for dried plasma collection, is known to induce considerable hemolysis, which further impacts specimen quality, concordance with liquid plasma, and the overall benefit of microsampling. We address these gaps with a patterned dried plasma spot (pDPS) card, which generates plasma with improved hematocrit independence and minimal hemolysis. This study directly compares pDPS cards to the Roche PSC to measure HIV viral load. Analysis of viral load from 75 donors revealed strong agreement in sensitivity, specificity, overall accuracy, and viral load band placement between devices, with quantitative metrics suggesting improved performance for pDPS cards. In reflexive genotyping, remnant dried blood from pDPS cards exhibited greater success than Roche PSC in amplification and sequencing (71% vs. 62%) and detecting drug resistance mutations (63% vs. 42%). Based on this performance, pDPS cards can be versatile across multiple analytical platforms, integrate seamlessly into existing clinical laboratory workflows, and aid clinicians in making accurate treatment decisions.
Review on efficient P3CT and P3HT HTL based perovskite solar cells
Authors: Chandel Anjali , Tang Po-Wen , Chang Sheng Hsiung
Published: February 2025

The excellent collection ability of the photo-generated holes from the poly-crystalline lead trihalide perovskite thin films to the poly[3-(4-carboxybutyl)thiophene-2,5,-diyl] (P3CT) or poly(3-hexylthiophene) (P3HT) polymer layer has been used to realize the highly efficient solar cells. The electronic and molecular structures of the p-type polymers play the decisive roles in the photovoltaic responses of the resultant perovskite solar cells. It is fundamental to understand the relation between the material properties and the photovoltaic performance in order to achieve the highest power conversion efficiency. We review the molecular packing, morphological, optical, excitonic, and surface properties of the P3CT and P3HT polymer layers in order to correctly understand the working mechanisms of the resultant solar cells, thereby predicting the required material properties of the used p-type polymers as the efficient hole transport layer.
Exact diagonalization study of ground state properties and level statistics in simple and extended Hubbard lattice cluster
Authors: Equbal Md Fahad , Hassan S R , Ahsan M A H
Published: February 2025

We investigate the ground state properties and the energy level statistics of a two-dimensional 3 × 3 square lattice cluster of simple and extended Hubbard model in parameters space  − 10 ≤ U, V ≤ 10 for various electron configurations (N

e
 = 10, 8, 6 and 4) within the spin subspace S = 0 using exact diagonalization. In simple Hubbard model, we observe transition from a behavior where electrons remain correlated to lattice sites to electron-paired state as U is varied from positive to negative. In case of extended Hubbard model, we observe tendency for SDW ordering (enhanced by negative V) and CDW ordering (favored by positive V), modulated by electron density. The spectral properties of energy level statistics, analyzed using kernel density estimation, reveal a complex interplay between level attraction and level repulsion, highlighting the tunability of these properties through interaction parameters.
Sea-level rise causes feeding habitat loss for migratory shorebirds in remote coastal wetlands of Brazilian Amazon
Authors: Santos Carlos D , Paludo Danielle , Silvestro Paulo , Monteiro José O , Pachelle Paulo P G , Oliveira Verônica , Mobley Jason A
Published: February 2025

Sea-level rise (SLR) can cause significant changes in coastal wetlands, such as the retreat of coastlines and sedimentary shifts in tidal flats. In areas lacking coastal defenses, rising sea levels are expected to drive the inland migration of coastal wetlands, generally maintaining the extent of tidal flat habitats but also triggering important ecosystem changes. Migratory shorebirds are apex predators in coastal wetlands, thus being highly sensitive to such changes. Despite the worldwide decline of this group of birds, the impacts of SLR on their habitats have not been readily evaluated. In this study, we investigated how migratory shorebirds are responding to the gradual occupation of tidal flats by areas originating from marine transgression of terrestrial habitats, which is a consequence of inland migration of coastal wetlands. We conducted aerial surveys to assess the distribution of shorebirds along 630 km of tidal flats in coastal wetlands of the Brazilian Amazon. We then mapped the distribution of tidal flats in the late 1980s and for the survey period using satellite imagery to identify the tidal areas created by marine transgression over the past four decades. Finally, we sampled these areas and nearby tidal flats to assess shorebird prey abundance and sediment characteristics. We found that shorebirds avoid transgressed areas as feeding grounds, with their numbers sharply declining with the increasing occupancy of this habitat. The dominant shorebird species, the semipalmated sandpiper (Calidris pusilla), presented densities one order of magnitude lower in transgressed areas than in other tidal flats, indicating a clear response to the reduced availability of its main prey, the crustacean Discapseudes surinamensis. We conclude that, although inland migration of coastal wetlands may preserve the extent of tidal flats over time, their increased occupation by transgressed areas can lead to significant losses in feeding habitat for migratory shorebirds.
A hybrid cheetah and grey wolf optimization algorithm for network intrusion detection
Authors: Kumari Deepshikha , Pranav Prashant , Sinha Abhinav , Dutta Sandip
Published: February 2025

In the rapidly evolving field of cybersecurity, anomaly detection continues to be a crucial challenge for identifying and preventing potential threats. This study presents an innovative hybrid approach to enhance intrusion detection systems by combining the Cheetah Optimizer Algorithm (COA) and the Grey Wolf Optimizer (GWO) with Convolutional Neural Networks (CNN). To evaluate the performance of this hybrid COA-GWO algorithm, the research utilizes five cutting-edge multiclass datasets: TII-SSRC, WSN-DS, KITSUNE, MSCAD, and Edge-IIOT. By integrating these optimization algorithms, the proposed method significantly improves the CNN-based intrusion detection models’ ability to identify network anomalies, achieving remarkable detection accuracies of 99%, 97%, 96%, 97%, and 97% on the respective datasets. These results highlight the powerful potential of hybrid optimization techniques combined with deep learning to enhance the accuracy and efficiency of intrusion detection systems. Ultimately, this research advances intrusion detection strategies by showcasing the superior performance of the COA-GWO optimized CNN in addressing a range of real-world cybersecurity challenges.
On Administrative and Surveillance Vulnerability and the Digital Government in the EU
Authors: Rebrean Maria-Lucia , Malgieri Gianclaudio
Published: February 2025

Chapter 26 delves into the intricate digitalization process of public administration in the EU, highlighting both the benefits and the concurrently occurring pitfalls that raise significant risks to rights. We focus on outlining the concepts of ‘administrative vulnerability’, that is, risk to rights that are propagated from power imbalances between individuals and public administration, and the derivative ‘surveillance vulnerability’, that is, administrative vulnerability that stems from pervasive surveillance practices. Further, the chapter explores the efficacy of employing a combination of transparency, explainability and accountability mechanisms as a means towards minimizing both administrative and surveillance vulnerability. By indicating the interconnection of the analysed safeguards, we advocate for a multifaceted strategy to address the nuanced challenges raised by administrative digitalization processes.
The Structure of Spinoza's World
Authors: Costa Emanuele
Published: February 2025

This book provides a reinterpretation of Spinoza’s metaphysics that aims to understand the powerful ways in which structural notions inform the development of his philosophy. Concepts such as substance, mode, and attribute have often been treated as monoliths in the scholarly community seeking to interpret Spinoza’s metaphysics. Here, they are examined as vital and interrelated through structural notions such as causality, conception, inherence, limitation, expression, affection, and power. As a result, the interpretative lens elaborated here recasts apparently familiar notions—such as “individual” or “Nature”—while also providing insight into the metaphysical grounding of their ontological character and operations. Moreover, the application of this metaphysical reinterpretation of Spinoza’s Ethics showcases the complex unity of his masterpiece, explaining the path to intellectual salvation that he offers as a reward to his readers.
Introduction
Authors: Costa Emanuele
Published: February 2025

The introduction provides a framework analysis to motivate the development of a structural interpretation of Spinoza’s metaphysics. It begins by analyzing the metaphysical category of “relation” as a grounded property, and it suggests and defends the possibility of instead considering some of Spinoza’s key notions as “structures,” that is, grounding elements that provide the metaphysical foundation for both objects and properties. Furthermore, it defends a nonreductionist approach to Spinoza’s metaphysics by explicitly advocating against the need for synthetization to the fewest possible principles and instead admiring the richness of his philosophy.
The Winding Paths of Substance
Authors: Costa Emanuele
Published: February 2025

This chapter examines the structural transition from monism to plurality. It argues that Spinoza obtains this transition by way of the richness contained in the structure named “expression,” which is an understudied feature of his philosophy. The connection between the essence of God and his attributes is understood through expression to form a multiplicity of aspects, which are distinguished from each other, thanks to specific expressive characters. This unique metaphysical structure is key to grounding Spinoza’s approach to the problem of the one and the many, exemplified in his notoriously complex theories of infinite modes and parallelism.
Unfolding Time
Authors: Costa Emanuele
Published: February 2025

This chapter discusses Spinoza’s theory of modality, by demonstrating that Spinoza transforms notions that we would usually connect to a philosophy of time—such as eternity and duration—into modal notions, such as necessity and contingency. Furthermore, the chapter argues that Spinoza elaborates a unique and original notion of eternity as absolute necessity, which is exclusively applied to God, whereas “regular” necessity, which is applied to finite individuals, is better understood through his aspectual conception of formal essence and actual essence. The notion of necessity that applies to finite modes is motivated through a brief analysis of Spinoza’s Letter 12. As finite modes become the object of the analysis in the latter part of the chapter, the distinction between actual essence and formal essence is further specified as distinct “species,” following Spinoza’s Latin, and as distinct modes of the attributes of thought and extension. Each “white” mode is thus understood as presenting various aspects, depending on the perspective of analysis.
To Build a World
Authors: Costa Emanuele
Published: February 2025

The most innovative area of Spinoza’s metaphysics is perhaps his revolutionary theory of individuals, which explicitly renounces essential considerations to recast individuality and identity as derivative structural notions, grounded in the mereological character of finite reality. While much scholarly attention has been dedicated to this issue, it has not yet received a structural analysis that connected it to deeper grounding questions of Spinoza’s metaphysics. In this chapter, the theory of parts and wholes elaborated by Spinoza is mobilized to explain how individuals come to relate to each other, exchanging parts and quantities of power, and how ultimately all individuals are part of the infinite whole of Nature.
Misinformation
Authors: Talbott Siobhan
Published: February 2025

While honesty was a desirable quality in business, sometimes information was shared which was—or later became—false. Occasionally this resulted from a deliberate intent to deceive, but false information more commonly arose from genuine misunderstanding or an unexpected change in circumstance. An increase in the availability of information presented as many challenges as benefits for commercial agents, as it led to conflicting data, issues of trust, and the need to deal with what we might now term ‘fake news’. This chapter explores the cause of ‘false’ information and shows how merchants navigated and sought to verify the information available to them. I consider the difference between ‘misinformation’ and ‘disinformation’, and the benefits of secrecy to merchant operations. In some circumstances more was to be gained by controlling and manipulating, rather than sharing, privileged business information.
Kynurenine, a derivative of tryptophan, inhibits progesterone biosynthesis in porcine granulosa luteal cells through AHR-mediated downregulation of GATA4, GATA6, and CEBPB
Authors: Liao Shiying , Cheng Jinhua , Zhao Weimin , Dai Chaohui , Fu Yanfeng , Li Bixia , Deng Yanfei , Li Hui
Published: February 2025

Kynurenine (KYN) is a primary tryptophan derivative found in the human body and fermented foods. Previous studies have shown that KYN is an Aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) agonist and is important in regulating various physiological activities, including female reproduction. Progesterone is a vital steroid hormone that facilitates embryo implantation and maintains pregnancy. However, whether KYN affects its biosynthesis remains unclear. To gain understanding, in vitro luteinized porcine granulosa luteal (pGL) cells were treated with KYN. The results showed that KYN disrupted progesterone biosynthesis by decreasing the expression of STAR and HSD3B in pGL cells. In addition, the expression of three transcription factors of STAR and HSD3B (GATA4, GATA6, and CEBPB) decreased after KYN treatment. Furthermore, the AHR blockade results showed comparable to those of KYN treatment, and subsequent knockdown experiments confirmed these results. These findings suggest that KYN inhibits progesterone biosynthesis in pGL cells by downregulating GATA4, GATA6, and CEBPB expression through AHR. Thus, our results showed for the first time, a previously unknown connection between KYN and progesterone biosynthesis.
How microlearning is reshaping neurology and neuroscience
Authors: Sandrone Stefano
Published: February 2025

Microlearning is changing how we learn, formally and informally, one piece at a time. Stefano Sandrone explores its benefits and limitations, and its impact on the world of neuroscience.
Chronic constrictive pericarditis with rheumatic mitral regurgitation
Authors: Tribak Mohammed , Adanho Christ-Marion , Elmourabit Yassine , Leghlimi Lalla Hasna , Soufiani Aida , Agoumy Zineb , El-Mhadi Samah , Marmade Lahcen
Published: February 2025

The case of a 31-year-old woman presenting with chronic constrictive pericarditis and mitral valve regurgitation secondary to rheumatic heart disease is described along with a review of the literature with the aim to highlight this uncommon association.
The maize GSK3-like kinase ZmSK1 negatively regulates drought tolerance by phosphorylating the transcription factor ZmCPP2
Authors: Xiang Yang , Liu Weijuan , Niu Yingxue , Li Qian , Zhao Chongyang , Pan Yitian , Li Guangdong , Bian Xiangli , Miao Yadan , Zhang Aying
Published: February 2025

Glycogen synthase kinase 3 (GSK3)–like kinases play important roles in stress responses in plants. However, the mechanism of GSK3-like kinases in drought-induced antioxidant defense is not clear. In this study, we discovered that the GSK3-like kinase SHAGGY-like kinase 1 (ZmSK1) negatively regulates drought tolerance by inhibiting antioxidant defense in maize (Zea mays). Then, we determined that cysteine-rich polycomb-like protein 2 (ZmCPP2) interacts with ZmSK1 and enhances maize drought tolerance by inducing antioxidant defense. ZmCPP2 is phosphorylated at Ser-250 by ZmSK1, which is dependent on ZmSK1 kinase activity and attenuates maize drought tolerance. Furthermore, ZmCPP2 directly binds to the promoter of the superoxide dismutase (SOD) gene ZmSOD4, encoding an antioxidant defense enzyme, and activates its expression. ZmSK1 phosphorylating ZmCPP2 at Ser-250 represses the binding of ZmCPP2 to the ZmSOD4 promoter. Taken together, our results indicate that the phosphorylation of ZmCPP2 by ZmSK1 results in decreased SOD activity and thus reduces drought tolerance in maize. These findings reveal a mechanism of GSK3-like kinases regulating antioxidant defense in the drought stress response.
South Dakota State University Extension’s two-year beefSD program has high impact on beginning beef cattle producers
Authors: Ehlert Krista A , Blair Amanda D , Hadrick Stacy , Olson Kenneth C
Published: February 2025

The value of Extension programming is the generation of short (knowledge gain), medium (behavior change), and long (condition improvement) term outcomes or impact for clientele. Evaluating impact is a critical step in Extension programming. Effective evaluation can be used to measure outcomes, adapt and improve curricula of ongoing programs, and document public value gained from Extension funding. Although evaluation tools administered during or at the end of program activities can measure short-term outcomes, they cannot measure subsequent change in behavior and condition as a result of the program. South Dakota State University Extension has conducted a program entitled “beefSD” wherein cohorts of beginning beef cattle producers have been exposed to a two-year curriculum to increase their capacity to successfully manage their beef cattle enterprises. Five cohorts completed the program between 2010 and 2022. To measure the medium- and long-term impacts of this program, an online survey instrument was administered to the alumni of all five cohorts in Fall 2022. Twenty-two percent of alumni completed the survey. Survey results indicated that since completion of the program, most respondents expanded their beef cattle enterprises, implemented goals, financial, marketing, grazing, drought, and business plans, and became more profitable. The majority of respondents found high value from practices, tools, and concepts learned in beefSD that they incorporated into their enterprise management plans. Evaluation results indicated beefSD has positively impacted the beef cattle enterprises and lives of alumni, increasing the likelihood of their improved sustainability going forward. Further, this evaluation survey clearly demonstrated program impact, documenting public value from the program. Similar Extension programs could be developed for other regions or commodities, contributing comparable outcomes with program evaluation documenting further public value.
Neuromuscular Blockade and Antagonism in Patients with Renal Impairment: A Multicenter Retrospective Cross Sectional Study
Authors: Elkhateb Rania , Campbell Davis L. , Zhao Xinyi , Mentz Graciela , El Sharawi Nadir , Kumar Sathish , Mhyre Jill M. , Kheterpal Sachin , Colquhoun Douglas A
Published: February 2025

Background:

Current practice guidelines do not address the use of neuromuscular blocking and antagonism agents in patients with renal impairment. The FDA label for sugammadex advises against use in patients with severe renal impairment (eGFR < 30 ml/min). Using a multicenter electronic health record registry, we sought to understand the modern use of neuromuscular blockade and antagonism agents in patients with significant renal impairment (eGFR < 60 ml/min).

Methods:

Data was obtained from the Multicenter Perioperative Outcomes Group (MPOG) registry, for adult patients (>18yrs) with an estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) < 60ml/min, based on most recent serum creatinine, receiving general anesthesia for a non-renal transplant procedure with an endotracheal tube between January 1st 2016 and July 31st 2022. Patients were classified into three mutually exclusive blockade and reversal strategies: rocuronium-sugammadex, cisatracurium-neostigmine and rocuronium-neostigmine. Adjusted incidence of each blockade reversal strategy was established by a multinomial mixed effects model. The contribution of institution, anesthesiologist, and patient/case factors to variation to strategy choice was assessed by multilevel mixed effects models.

Results:

In 243,944 cases across 5,133 anesthesiologists and 48 institutions, adjusted use of rocuronium-sugammadex increased from 4.4% to 95.2% and rocuronium-neostigmine decreased from 84.7% to 4.3% and cisatracurium-neostigmine decreased from 10.9% to 0.5%. In patients with an eGFR <15ml/min, rocuronium-sugammadex use increased from 0.5% to 86.9%. 30.1% of the variation in choice of rocuronium-sugammadex vs cisatracurium-neostigmine, was attributed to the institution, 22.7% to the attending anesthesiologist and 47.2% to patient/case factors or was unexplained. The adjusted median odds ratio for this choice was 2.5 for clinicians and 3.1 for institutions.

Conclusion:

Rocuronium-sugammadex is the primary neuromuscular blockade-antagonism strategy for patients with moderate and severe renal impairment. Variation in choice is significantly impacted by the institution and attending anesthesiologist providing care.
A kinetic model of antigen-dependent IgG oligomerization and complement binding
Authors: Strasser Jürgen , Frischauf Nikolaus , Schustereder Lukas , Karner Andreas , Bosgra Sieto , Labrijn Aran F. , Beurskens Frank J. , Preiner Johannes
Published: February 2025

The classical complement pathway (CCP), an important branch of the mammalian immune system, is initiated through multivalent binding of complement protein C1 to Immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibody oligomers assembled on the surface of pathogens, infected or malignant cells, culminating in the formation of the membrane attack complex (MAC) and subsequent cell lysis. IgG oligomers can further engage immune effector cells through Fcγ receptors or complement receptors, facilitating antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC) and phagocytosis (ADCP). Detailed knowledge of the factors that drive IgG oligomerization is thus vitally important to establish and improve IgG based therapies. We here focus on the kinetics of antigen-dependent IgG oligomerization and develop a comprehensive model capable of predicting oligomer formation as a function of IgG concentration, antigen density, IgG subclass and Fc point mutants, as well as the presence of Fc-binding and thus oligomerization-inhibiting factors such as staphylococcal protein A (SpA). We characterize the underlying molecular interactions in single molecule force spectroscopy (SMFS) and grating coupled interferometry (GCI) experiments. By fitting experimental data from high-speed atomic force microscopy (HS-AFM) experiments, we further quantify key rate constants and thermodynamic parameters, including free energy changes associated with oligomerization and apply the model to predict complement-mediated lysis in liposomal vesicle-based assays. The presented mechanistic framework may serve as a basis for optimizing antibody engineering and pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic modeling in the context of immunotherapies exploiting the CCP.