bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enhancing design pedagogy with architectural technology: integrating rule-based and generative approaches
Authors: Uçar Uğur Efe , Gökdemir Gözde , Güzelci Orkan Zeynel , Garip S. Banu , Garip Ervin
Published: February 2025

Purpose

This study aims to present a pedagogical framework that is centered around architectural technology (AT) for design studios. To achieve this, our purpose is to implement a new pedagogical framework that applies AT-facilitated thinking processes within computational design (CD) in the design process.

Design/methodology/approach

We use a descriptive methodology to explore a pedagogical framework that applies CD. To integrate this in design studios, rule-based design (RBD), generative design (GD) and genetic algorithms (GAs) are used. The research includes a literature review and examines the framework’s application through a design studio. This dual approach, combining theory and implementation, offers a comprehensive understanding of the framework.

Findings

The study’s findings indicate that a comprehensive CD approach, encompassing modules such as defining rules for design problems, generating multiple variations, adapting and optimizing, can be utilized to implement a design pedagogy suitable for an AT-centered industry. The presented framework led to the conclusion that individuals can successfully adapt to the AT-centered construction industry by using a comprehensive CD approach.

Originality/value

This study presents an original pedagogical framework that integrates CD as the primary approach within the design studios. We introduce a process that integrates RBD and GD as complementary elements. We aim to incorporate GAs into design studios as an original approach, which are relatively limited in the literature. This integrated approach aims to integrate the AT-centered industry by fostering adaptability across the design process.
“I am proud of using ChatGPT”: a moderated-mediating model of bandwagon effect on pride through habit formation
Authors: Kwok Man Lung Jonathan , Kwong Raymond , Ng Peggy M.L. , Chan Jason Kai Yue , Lau Mei Mei
Published: February 2025

Purpose

This study addresses the remarkable research gap in the existing literature on Chat Generative Pre-training Transformer (ChatGPT), which has primarily explored its functional benefits rather than the psychological states of its users. By integrating the self-concept theory and functional theory of attitudes, this study develops a moderated-mediating model to examine the impact of the bandwagon effect on users’ habit formation and subsequent feelings of pride associated with the ChatGPT application.

Design/methodology/approach

This study analyzed self-reported survey data from 568 respondents from mainland China using partial least squares structural equation modeling.

Findings

The findings reveal that the bandwagon effect indirectly influences users’ pride through the formation of habits related to ChatGPT applications. This study also identifies the boundary condition of social-adjustive attitude, which strengthens both the direct relationship between the bandwagon effect and habit formation and its indirect relationship with pride.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the field by offering a novel perspective on ChatGPT adoption, highlighting the role of self-concept and attitudinal functions in driving users’ intentions to utilize the technology, with a focus on the desire for pride as a motivating factor.
What foreign investors value: transparency or corruption?
Authors: Forghani Bajestani Mahdi , Li Shaomin
Published: February 2025

Purpose

As a major driver of economic development, foreign direct investment (FDI) has been examined from different lenses. This study aims to investigate how the perception of bribery in target markets by foreign investors shapes their investment behavior depending on the level of corruption in their home country.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors develop a framework with distinctions between low and highly corrupt countries to evaluate their responses to clean and corrupt environments abroad when making foreign investments. A dynamic gravity model with panel data analyses on 36 economic cooperation and development members over the 2013–2018 period is used to test the hypotheses.

Findings

The authors find that low-corruption sources of investment are deterred by widespread bribery in foreign markets and tend to commit more resources to transparent environments. However, highly corrupt countries invest more in high-corruption target markets.

Originality/value

The literature is dominated by two views arguing that inward FDI is deterred by corruption in the host country, and corruption differences between home and host markets. The authors shift the focus from recipient countries to investors’ perspective with various configurations of bilateral outward FDI between home and host countries based on their level of corruption.
Study on the influence factors of HST running in the tunnels at 400 km/h
Authors: Liu Lei , Sun Gengjie , Zhang Ziwei , Han Jiaqiang
Published: February 2025

Purpose

The paper aims to clarify the operation rationality of high speed trains (HSTs) under tunnel condition with the speed of 400 km/h through representative aerodynamic factors including running drag, eardrum comfort, carriages noise, aerodynamic loads on tunnel ancillary facilities and HST, micro-pressure waves, and then put forward engineering suggestions for higher speed tunnel operation based on the analysis.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on the field measurement data of CR400AF-C and CR400BF-J tunnel operation, correlations between each aerodynamic indicators with HST speed were established. By analyzing the safety reserve of aerodynamic indicators at 350 km/h and the sensitivity of each indicator to HST speed increasing and the indicators’ formation mechanism, the coupling relationship between various indicators was obtained.

Findings

The sensitivity of different aerodynamic indicators to speed variation differed. The aerodynamic indicators representing flow field around HST showed a linear relationship with HST speed including noise, eardrum comfort, aerodynamic load on HST body. The positive aerodynamic load on tunnel auxiliary facilities and the micro-pressure wave at the entrance of the tunnel have the same sensitivity to the 3th-power relation of HST speed. The over-limit proportion of micro-pressure wave was the highest among the indicators, and aerodynamic buffering measures were recommended for optimization. The open tunnel pressure relief structure is recommended, while allowing trains to pass through the tunnel at an unconditional speed of 380 km/h.

Originality/value

Comprehensive evaluation of multiple aerodynamic indicators for HST tunnel operation with higher speeds was realized. The main engineering requirements to release aerodynamic effect were identified and the optimization scheme is proposed.
Feather mites selectively feed on specific bacteria and fungi on feathers with potential benefits to hosts
Authors: Risely Alice
Published: February 2025

Invited Research Highlight: Matthews, A. E., Trevelline, B. K., Wijeratne, A. J., & Boves, T. J. (2024). Picky eaters: Selective microbial diet of avian ectosymbionts. Journal of Animal Ecology. Trophic interactions such as herbivory and predation are crucial regulators of ecological communities, yet few examples exist for these processes within host‐associated microbiomes. In a recent study, Matthews et al. (2024) looked for evidence of selective microbial predation of bacteria and fungi by microscopic mites on the feathers of wild Prothonotary warblers (Protonotaria citrea). The authors quantified the bacterial and fungal diet of commensal feather mites and compared this with the composition of microbial communities living directly on the feather. They found that, despite a large variety of microbes to choose from, mites strongly preferred to eat a small number of bacterial and fungal genera. Some of these selectively enriched taxa are known keratin‐degraders, suggesting that mites may protect feathers by selectively consuming harmful microbes. This study presents a rare example of a trophic interaction within the microscopic ecosystem of the feather that may act as an important force shaping microbial communities in ways that benefit the host, providing an overlooked mechanism by which symbioses between birds and mites could evolve.
Sigma‐1 Receptor‐Mediated High Mobility Group A1 Silencing Alleviates Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress‐Induced Ovarian Granulosa Cell Apoptosis: An In Vitro Cell Experimental Study
Authors: Jiang Lile , Yang Shujun , Zhang Cuilian
Published: February 2025

Objective

To investigate the role and underlying mechanism of sigma‐1 receptor (SigmaR1)/high mobility group A1 (HMGA1) in the pathogenesis of diminished ovarian reserve (DOR).

Design

In vitro cell experimental study.

Setting

The Reproductive Medical Center, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University.

Sample

Serum, follicular fluid (FF), ovarian granulosa cells (GCs) and KGN cells.

Methods

Samples were collected from DOR patients. Endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress was induced in the GCs using thapsigargin (TG). mRNA and protein levels were determined using reverse transcription‐quantitative polymerase chain reaction and western blotting. Cell apoptosis and viability were assessed using flow cytometry and cell counting kit‐8. Protein colocalization was detected via immunofluorescence. Molecular interactions were validated using co‐immunoprecipitation, luciferase reporter and chromatin immunoprecipitation assays.

Main Outcome Measures

Cell viability, cell apoptosis, SigmaR1, HMGA1 and ER stress‐associated mRNA levels.

Results

SigmaR1 expression decreased while HMGA1 expression increased in the serum, FF and GC samples of DOR patients and TG‐treated GCs. TG induced ER stress and GC apoptosis; these effects were diminished by SigmaR1 overexpression or HMGA1 silencing. SigmaR1 expressed in the nuclear envelope forms a complex with gene repressor‐specific protein 3 (SP3) and histone deacetylase (HDAC)1/2/3; however, TG reduced SigmaR1 in GCs and blocked the complex formation. HMGA1, a transcriptional target of SP3, was negatively modulated by the SigmaR1/SP3 complex. HMGA1 overexpression abolished the protective effect of SigmaR1 on TG‐induced ER stress and GC apoptosis.

Conclusion

SigmaR1 formed a SmigaR1/SP3/HDAC complex to inhibit HMGA1 transcription, alleviating ER stress and GC apoptosis and providing new therapeutic targets for DOR.
Exploring the Impact of Monetary Policy and Institutional Quality on Inflation, Investment, and Economic Growth in G‐10 Economies
Authors: Khan Saqib , Tariq Muhammad , Khan Muhammad Azam
Published: February 2025

The dimensions of monetary policy and institutional quality have a significant role in shaping macroeconomic stability, influencing inflation control, investment flows, and the long‐term trajectory of economic growth. The purpose of the present study is to investigate the impact of monetary policy (interest rate; exchange rate) and institutional quality (Political Stability; Absence of Violence) on inflation (CPI), investment (FDI), and economic growth (GDP) in G‐10 countries using contemporary econometric methodologies from 1996 to 2022. The methodology includes the use of second‐generation unit root tests, the Westerlund co‐integration test, CCEMG technique, and FMOLS and DOLS estimation. The results showed that monetary policy and institutional quality have a negative impact on inflation. The exchange rate negatively affects investment, while the interest rate and institutional quality positively influence investment. Additionally, the exchange rate and institutional quality positively impact economic growth, whereas the interest rate has a negative effect on economic growth. Therefore, policymakers must exercise caution when attempting to incentivize investment through interest rate policies. This is to make sure that interest rates don't unintentionally slow down the economy's growth or disrupt inflation stability. The prime focus of the present study is to assess the role of monetary policy implications along with strong institutions on inflation, investment, and economic growth.
From Pandemic to Progress: Rethinking Work Patterns in Vietnam to Improve Flexibility and Support Gender Equality
Authors: Akbari Mohammadreza , Alonso Abel Duarte , Vu Oanh Thi Kim , Hopkins John , Bardoel Anne , Kok Seng Kiat
Published: February 2025

This article aims to understand the characteristics of flexible work arrangements in Vietnam. First, it examines the adoption of flexible work arrangements in the aftermath of COVID‐19, which had profound impacts on work‐life balance, career opportunities, and workplace gender dynamics. Despite Vietnam's significance as a large emerging economy, research on flexible work arrangements among workers operating in this nation has been limited. Second, using conservation of resources theory, complemented by positive organizational behavior theory, the study identifies the resources needed for flexible work and those created during this specific time period. An online survey was utilized to collect primary data from n = 217 Vietnamese workers on this phenomenon. Although women reported low levels of preparedness for remote working, beneficial aspects for both genders arose through greater flexibility, reduced commuting, increased productivity, financial savings, and more leisure time. Third, the study proposes a conceptual framework to enhance the implementation of remote working and discusses implications for organizations and governments in emerging economies like Vietnam.
The Evaluation of PNPLA2, ATGL, and G0S2 Levels in Serum and PBMCs of the Newly Diagnosed and the Chronic Patients With Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Gholizadeh Masoomeh , Asadi Jahanbakhsh , Aghaei Mehrdad , Akbar Soroush , Malakouti Romina , Sepehr Koushan Sineh , Hesari Zahra
Published: February 2025

Aim

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease that is marked by inflammatory response. PNPLA2 (phospholipase patatin‐like) which encodes ATGL (adipose triglyceride lipase) also been identified as playing in inflammation. G0S2 (G0/G1) switch gene has been identified as one of the selective inhibitors of ATGL. PNPLA2 and G0S2 may be factors that can help predict the relationship between molecules affecting inflammation, as well as identify inflammatory pathways through genes involved in the metabolic pathway.

Methods

In the present study, we analyzed the expression levels of PNPLA2 and G0S2 genes as well as their protein concentrations by real‐time PCR and immunoassay, respectively on 60 peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) which are included into 3 different groups of new case patients with RA, chronic patients with RA, and the control individuals. Also, to obtain more accurate information and results, the synovial fluid, triglyceride, cholesterol, and ESR levels were also analyzed. Statistical analysis was then performed with the software SPSS‐18.

Results

PNPLA2 gene expression level was significantly increased in the newly diagnosed patients and the chronic RA patients in compared to the control group. Also, the serum levels of ATGL in the newly diagnosed patients and the chronic RA patients were significantly reduced compared to the control group. The gene and protein levels of G0S2 in the newly diagnosed patients elevated compared to other groups, but interestingly this increase in PBMCs was not significant.

Conclusions

This is predicted that PNPLA2 gene expression in PBMCs is not only regulated by G0S2 gene, but different regulatory factors can also affect the expression level of this gene in the immune cells.
Short‐Term Livestock Grazing Exclusion Has No Site‐Scale Impact on an Endangered Lizard
Authors: Michael Kimberley H. , Michael Patrick , Baring Ryan , Gardner Michael G.
Published: February 2025

Grasslands are among the most utilised habitat types for livestock production and the least protected ecosystems globally. Livestock grazing alters the abiotic and biotic features of a landscape and influences vegetation structure. In turn, these vegetation structural changes can adversely impact native animals that use these habitats, including reptiles. The endangered pygmy bluetongue lizard (Tiliqua adelaidensis) exclusively inhabits livestock‐grazed grasslands in South Australia. Using a before/after, control/impact design, we investigated the effects of short‐term grazing exclusion on vegetation structure and lizard abundance across two sites with natural vegetation and climate variation. We found vegetation structure differed between the two sites in “before” and “after” data but did not detect any effect of grazing treatment. We detected a negative association of lizard abundance with tussock cover in “before” data and a negative association with bare ground in the “after” data at the more arid site (Peterborough), although there was no significant overall grazing exclusion effect on lizard abundance at either site. Our survey techniques at a site scale may not have captured microhabitat‐scale changes that could have influenced pygmy bluetongue responses. This study indicates short‐term and small spatial scale grazing exclusion will have non‐significant effects on pygmy bluetongues. Sheep grazing management is an important component of pygmy bluetongue conservation, and we recommend further research to incorporate multiple spatial scales over a longer time prior to applying landscape management actions.
A clinician implementation protocol for BetterBrains: An online, person‐centred risk factor management program to prevent cognitive decline
Authors: Pirotta Stephanie , Barker Anna , Morello Renata , Rosenich Emily , Perin Stephanie , Araugo Samantha De , Lim Yen Ying , Ayton Darshini
Published: February 2025

Objective

Modifiable risk factors, particularly those in midlife, can contribute to cognitive decline and dementia. Despite this, the ‘how’ of dementia risk reduction, including the application of interventional and care frameworks to deliver such a program is lacking. Our aim was to describe the ‘how’ in clinical delivery of a dementia risk reduction program called BetterBrains.

Methods

BetterBrains is an online, person‐centred risk factor management program designed to prevent or delay cognitive decline in cognitively unimpaired community‐dwelling, middle‐aged adults with a family history of dementia. This protocol describes the delivery and implementation of BetterBrains using the Exploration, Preparation, Implementation, Sustainment (EPIS) framework.

Results

Procedures for risk factor assessment and tailored management pathways using motivational interviewing, nationwide community linkage mapping and community referral pathways using digital delivery are outlined. Coach training and competency checks for program fidelity measures are also described.

Conclusion

Complex, multi‐component programs require detailed implementation processes. Clinicians delivering BetterBrains may be better supported through standardised operating procedures, training and monitoring of competencies and implementation fidelity.
What Is the Depressive Mixed State?—Associated Factors Beyond Bipolarity
Authors: Takeshima Minoru , Inoue Takeshi
Published: February 2025

Objectives

To elucidate the differences in associated factors beyond bipolarity between Benazzi's depressive mixed state (DMX), defined as a major depressive episode (MDE) with ≥ 3 manic/hypomanic symptoms, and the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders fifth edition criteria for mixed features (DSM‐5‐DMX), defined as an MDE with ≥ 3 non‐overlapping manic/hypomanic symptoms.

Methods

The associations of DMX definitions with bipolarity, anxious distress (ANXD), autism spectrum disorder, attention‐deficit hyperactivity disorder, and older age were retrospectively examined in 160 patients with MDEs.

Results

Benazzi's DMX and DSM‐5‐DMX were identified in 48.8% and 1.9% of participants, respectively. Bipolar disorder (BD) and ANXD diagnoses were independently associated with Benazzi's DMX (odds ratio, 95% confidence interval: 3.70 [1.79–7.67], p < 0.001, and 6.14 [2.96–12.76], p < 0.001, respectively). Benazzi's DMX was also associated with several features of poor prognosis and psychiatric adverse events related to antidepressant treatment. As the low frequency of DSM‐5‐DMX did not allow for its statistical analysis, a post hoc analysis of an MDE with ≥ 2 non‐overlapping symptoms, accounting for 19.4% of participants, was performed. Similar to Benazzi's DMX, BD and ANXD diagnoses were independently associated with this definition of DMX. Moreover, the odds ratio of BD diagnosis was higher than that of ANXD.

Conclusion

Benazzi's DMX was independently associated with bipolarity and ANXD, and was also associated with poor prognosis. Exclusively defined DMX, such as DSM‐5‐DMX, may be more specifically associated with bipolarity; however, its sensitivity for predicting bipolarity is low for clinical practice. Further studies are required to validate these findings.
Impact of Tertiary Lymphoid Structure on Prognosis and Tumor Microenvironment in Undifferentiated Pleomorphic Sarcoma
Authors: Sonoda Hiroki , Iwasaki Takeshi , Ishihara Shin , Mori Taro , Nakashima Yasuharu , Oda Yoshinao
Published: February 2025

Undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcoma (UPS) has a favorable objective response rate to anti‐PD‐1 drugs compared with other sarcomas. Tertiary lymphoid structure (TLS) is a favorable prognostic factor and a biomarker for immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs). Nevertheless, there are limited data on the tumor microenvironment (TME) to support a good response to ICIs in sarcoma. Therefore, this study was conducted to investigate the impact of TLS on prognosis and TME. A total of 52 of UPS with wide resection were divided into intratumoral TLS, extratumoral TLS, and without TLS groups. Survival analysis and immunohistochemistry were performed to evaluate immune cells and immune checkpoint molecules, and multiplexed immunofluorescence was conducted to evaluate T‐cell exhaustion among the three groups. TLS was detected in 34 cases (65%), including 23 intratumoral TLS (44%) and 11 extratumoral TLS (21%) cases. Patients with TLS had significantly longer overall survival than those without TLS (log rank p = 0.020). The intratumoral TLS group had a significantly higher number of immune cells and higher expression of PD‐L1 and IDO‐1 than the without TLS group. Progenitor‐exhausted T cells were also observed in patients with UPS. In conclusion, these findings could help predict prognosis in patients with UPS. TLS was demonstrated to be a favorable prognostic factor in patients with UPS. Intratumoral TLS may be a biomarker for the response to ICIs, especially anti‐PD‐1 drugs.
NEUROMYODredger: Whole Exome Sequencing for the Diagnosis of Neurodevelopmental and Neuromuscular Disorders in Seven Countries
Authors: Malfatti Edoardo , Caramizaru Alexandru , Lee Hane , Kim JiHye , Shoaito Hussein , Pennisi Alessandra , Souvannanorath Sarah , Authier François‐Jérôme , Dumitrescu Andreea , Fahmy Nagia , Escobar‐Cedillo Rosa Elena , Miranda‐Duarte Antonio , Luna‐Angulo Alexandra Berenice , Nouioua Sonia , Benchaabi Ouissem , Tazir Meriem , Hallal Sihem , Martinez Peggy , Castiglioni Claudia , Dobrescu Amelia , Tajsharghi Homa
Published: February 2025

Although substantial advancements have been made in genetic testing, several barriers continue to limit patient access, leading to delays in diagnosis, effective treatments, and preventative measures. The NEUROMYODredger‐3billion Megaproject End the Diagnostic Odyssey grant offered free whole exome sequencing (WES) to 245 patients with undiagnosed neurodevelopmental or neuromuscular disorders in seven countries: Algeria, Chile, Egypt, France, Mexico, Peru, and Romania. We found pathogenic variants in 79 patients (diagnostic yield 32.24%)—36 neurodevelopmental (43.90%) and 43 neuromuscular (26.38%). Fifty patients harboured variants of uncertain significance (VUS, 20.40%)—14 neurodevelopmental (17.07%) and 36 neuromuscular (22.08%), and 116 patients had negative results (47.34%). NEUROMYODredger helped end the diagnostic odyssey in around 30% of patients, while ongoing functional studies and reanalysis strategies are used in order to reach more diagnoses. In conclusion, a singleton WES approach is valuable in determining the genetic diagnosis of neurodevelopmental and neuromuscular diseases, especially in low and middle‐income countries.
Hypoxic Postconditioning Offers Neuroprotection Against Transient Cerebral Ischemia via Down‐Regulation of rno_piR_011022
Authors: Chen Meiyan , Duan Shanshan , Chai Guorong , Zhan Lixuan , Peng Linhui , Sun Weiwen , Xu En
Published: February 2025

Background

Piwi‐interacting RNAs (piRNAs) are differentially expressed after cerebral ischemia. However, little is known about their roles in transient global cerebral ischemia (tGCI). Herein, we aim to elucidate the roles and the underlying molecular mechanisms of piRNAs in tGCI and cerebral ischemic tolerance induced by hypoxic postconditioning (HPC).

Methods

The male rat models of tGCI and HPC were established in vivo. Oxygen–glucose deprivation/reoxygenation (OGD/R) was developed from primary hippocampal neurons in vitro. RNA‐sequencing, fluorescence in situ hybridization, and quantitative real‐time PCR were used for detecting piRNA expression. Immunohistochemistry, TUNEL staining, CCK8 assay, etc., were used to evaluate neuronal damage. Western blot was used to measure protein levels of NR2B, PSD95, and cleaved‐caspase 3.

Results

The expression profiles of piRNAs in CA1 were significantly changed after tGCI. HPC downregulated the expression of the top 5 piRNAs associated with synaptic function. Notably, the knockdown of rno_piR_011022 not only alleviated neuronal apoptosis and enhanced synaptic plasticity after tGCI and OGD/R but also reduced methyl‐D‐aspartate (NMDA) receptor 2B (NR2B) expression and inhibited NR2B‐postsynaptic density 95 (PSD95) interaction following tGCI. HPC enhanced these inhibitory effects.

Conclusion

This innovative study indicated that the down‐regulation of rno_piR_011022 plays an important role in HPC‐mediated neuroprotection against tGCI through inhibiting the NR2B‐PSD95 interaction.
Integrating optogenetic stimulation of olfactory bulb glomeruli with foot shock fear conditioning: A robust method for investigating olfactory‐based fear conditioning
Authors: Kuruppath Praveen
Published: February 2025

The integration of optogenetic techniques with traditional behavioural paradigms has provided novel insights into the neural mechanisms underlying olfactory‐based fear conditioning. Olfactory cues are potent triggers for fear responses, and understanding the intricate neural dynamics involved in olfactory fear learning is crucial for unravelling the complexities of aversive memory formation. In this study, a robust method is presented that combines optogenetic stimulation of olfactory bulb glomeruli with foot shock fear conditioning to investigate olfactory‐based fear learning in mice. By merging optogenetic manipulation with behavioural assays, a comprehensive framework for studying the mechanisms of olfactory fear conditioning is provided. This method offers new avenues for exploring the neural dynamics of adaptive responses to olfactory threats and may have implications for understanding fear‐related disorders.
Peripherin, A New Promising Biomarker in Neurological Disorders
Authors: Manco Carlo , Righi Delia , Primiano Guido , Romano Angela , Luigetti Marco , Leonardi Luca , De Stefano Nicola , Plantone Domenico
Published: February 2025

Peripherin is a class III intermediate filament protein that has recently gained attention as a potential biomarker for axonal damage in the peripheral nervous system. This review examines peripherin gene expression, protein structure, and its functions in both healthy and diseased states. Peripherin is predominantly expressed in the peripheral nervous system, especially in motor and sensory neurons, and plays a critical role in neurite growth, stability, and axonal transport during myelination. Its expression is regulated by various cytokines and undergoes several post‐transcriptional modifications. Peripherin interacts with multiple proteins, including neurofilaments and kinases, influencing cytoskeletal dynamics and neuronal functions. The review also explores peripherin involvement in several neurological disorders, such as Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, where its abnormal expression and aggregation contribute to disease pathology. Additionally, peripherin has been linked to polyneuropathies, traumatic axonal injury, and diabetic neuropathy, suggesting its broader relevance as a biomarker in these conditions. The potential of peripherin as a biomarker is further supported by recent studies using ultrasensitive detection methods, which have identified elevated peripherin levels in the serum of patients with neurological diseases. Despite the promising findings, the application of peripherin as a biomarker in clinical settings remains limited, primarily due to challenges in its detection and the need for further validation in diverse patient populations. Future research directions include the development of more sensitive assays and the exploration of peripherin's role in non‐neuronal tissues, which may expand its diagnostic and therapeutic potential.
A Fungal Endophyte Alters Poplar Leaf Chemistry, Deters Insect Feeding and Shapes Insect Community Assembly
Authors: Walther Christin , Vallet Marine , Reichelt Michael , Giri Prajakta , Rothe Beate , Negwer Elina J. , van Berkum Pamela Medina , Gershenzon Jonathan , Unsicker Sybille B.
Published: February 2025

Fungal endophytes of grasses and other herbaceous plants have been known to provide plants with anti‐herbivore defence compounds, but there is little information about whether the endophytes of trees also engage in such mutualisms. We investigated the influence of the endophytic fungus Cladosporium sp. on the chemical defences of black poplar (Populus nigra) trees and the consequences for feeding preference and fitness of herbivorous insects and insect community assembly. Endophyte colonisation increased both constitutive‐ and induced poplar defences. Generalist Lymantria dispar larvae preferred and performed better on uninfected over endophyte‐infected poplar leaves, most likely due to higher concentrations of salicinoids in endophyte‐inoculated leaves and the endophyte‐produced alkaloid stachydrine. Under field conditions, the endophytic fungus shapes insect community assembly i. a. attracting aphids, which can excrete stachydrine. Our results show that endophytic fungi play a crucial role in the defence against insects from different feeding guilds and thereby structuring insect communities.
DIE GEDICHTE IN DÖBLINS DIE DREI SPRÜNGE DES WANG‐LUN: ZEICHEN EINER CHINESISCHEN POETOLOGIE
Authors: Jiang Ying , Mardaus Frank
Published: February 2025

This article examines Döblin's use of original Chinese poetry – not only by the most famous poets of the Tang Dynasty, Du Fu and Bai Juyi, but also by the less widely known poet of the Qing Dynasty, Yuan Mei. Some of the original sources that Döblin traced through translations into German and commentaries have never been identified before. The poems are not used to emphasise an atmosphere but to form a framework for strategic and existential arguments. This becomes evident in the scene examined below, where the beautiful rebel Liang tries to assert herself against the politics and aesthetics of her adversary by means of a poem. At the same time, her poetic choice hints at her own deviant sexuality and the novel's distinct rendition of human drives and needs. Other well‐known Chinese poems enhance the description of events in the emperor's palace, which enables us to construct a relevant ‘Chinese’ poetics for the entire novel – not in the strict forms of Chinese classical poetry, but simply in a new prose structure which allows the melancholy and sublimity of the underlying tone to fade in favour of a complexity that is nevertheless true‐to‐life.
Vascular endothelial growth factor released from lenvatinib‐resistant hepatocellular carcinoma promotes malignant behavior and drug resistance through tumor‐associated macrophages
Authors: Takehara Yukako , Waki Yuhei , Morine Yuji , Saito Yu , Teraoku Hiroki , Wada Yuma , Yamada Shinichiro , Ikemoto Tetsuya , Shimada Mitsuo
Published: February 2025

Aim

Lenvatinib is one of the molecularly targeted drugs used worldwide in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) treatment, but the acquisition of drug resistance is a major problem. The mechanisms that make HCC lenvatinib‐resistant (LR) in the tumor microenvironment are largely unknown. Here, we examined the impact of LR HCC cells on tumor‐associated macrophages (TAMs) regarding tumor progression and drug resistance, focusing on vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) secretion by LR HCC cells.

Methods

Hepatocellular carcinoma cells were cultured with lenvatinib to obtain cells with approximately 4‐fold lenvatinib resistance. Monocyte‐derived macrophages were cultured in the conditioned medium (CM) of LR HCC to induce LR TAMs. Secretion of VEGF by naïve HCC cells, LR HCC cells, TAMs, and LR TAMs was assessed. The macrophage phenotype and VEGFR2 expression in both TAMs were evaluated. Additionally, the effects of inhibiting VEGF secretion in LR HCC cells on the TAM malignant potential were investigated. Tumor‐associated macrophages induced by VEGF‐inhibited LR HCC were defined as modified LR TAMs.

Results

Secretion of VEGF was elevated in LR HCC. Lenvatinib‐resistant TAMs had increased expression of M2‐like macrophage markers and increased expression of VEGFR2 compared with naïve HCC‐derived TAMs. Lenvatinib‐resistant TAM‐CM promoted malignant behaviors and lenvatinib resistance in naïve HCC cells and LR HCC cells. However, the modified LR TAMs did not increase M2 polarization markers or decreased VEGFR2 expression. The elevated VEGF secretion in LR TAMs was not seen in modified LR TAMs.

Conclusions

Increased VEGF secretion from LR HCC promoted malignant behaviors and lenvatinib resistance through LR TAMs in the tumor microenvironment.
Genome‐Wide Identification and Expression Analysis of the Trihelix Gene Family in Common Bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) Under Salt and Drought Stress
Authors: Zhang Wenjing , Cheng Yan , Jian Lingmin , Wang Hongda , Li Haoxin , Shen Zihao , Ying Wenyu , Yin Zhengong , Zhang Qi , Du Jidao
Published: February 2025

Triple‐helix transcription factors (GT factors) play a pivotal role in plant abiotic stress responses and growth and development. Named for their specific binding affinity to GT factors, they are clustered into five subgroups: GT‐1, GT‐2, GT‐γ, SIP1 and SH4. In Phaseolus vulgaris, 43 GT family members have been identified through reference genome analysis. PvGT members exhibit uneven genomic distribution, and members within the same subgroup share similar gene structures and motifs. Cis‐acting element analysis indicates the involvement of PvGTs in hormonal signalling and abiotic stress regulation. Collinearity analysis revealed four pairs of homologous PvGTs. To investigate their expression patterns, nine PvGTs with high expression levels were selected for quantitative real‐time PCR (qRT‐PCR) analysis. Among these, PvGT02, PvGT28, PvGT30 and PvGT34 were significantly upregulated under salt and drought stress. Functional characterisation demonstrated that PvGT02 significantly enhanced yeast tolerance to salt and drought stresses. These findings collectively contribute to our understanding of the PvGT family evolution in common bean, providing a foundation for further exploration. Additionally, PvGT02 emerges as a potential candidate gene for breeding salt and drought tolerance.
Facilitating Depth of Explanation: Utilising Reflective Feedback in Collaborative Learning Environments
Authors: Yi Suping , Sintawati Wayan , Zhang Yibing
Published: February 2025

Background

Natural language processing (NLP) and machine learning technologies offer significant advantages, such as facilitating the delivery of reflective feedback in collaborative learning environments while minimising technical constraints for educators related to time and location. Recently, scholars' interest in reflective feedback has increased scientifically. However, robust empirical evidence evaluating the impacts of feedback mechanisms and innovative NLP methods on enhancing the quality of explanations in knowledge building (KB) remains limited.

Objectives

This study investigated whether reflective feedback can assist primary school students in internalising and enhancing the depth of their explanations within a KB context.

Method

Employing a design‐based research methodology, this study involved 32 sixth‐grade students from a primary school in Yangzhou, China, who engaged in a 15‐week KB learning initiative.

Results and Conclusions

The findings indicated that (1) students achieved significant progress in developing deep explanations, marked by improvements in logicality, consistency, convergence and structure and (2) students perceived reflective feedback as a critical factor in developing robust and profound explanations and demonstrated positively to the feedback.

Implications

These findings deepened our understanding of explanatory and assessment strategies in KB and highlighted the substantial instructional, technological and practical implications of reflective feedback for educators and learners.
Experimental Challenge of Chinook Salmon (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha) With Tenacibaculum maritimum and Tenacibaculum dicentrarchi Fulfils Koch's Postulates
Authors: Kumanan Karthiga , Carson Jeremy , Hunter Ryan B. J. , Rolton Anne , von Ammon Ulla , Bandaranayake Chaya , Angelucci Connie , Morrison Richard N. , Walker Seumas P. , Symonds Jane E. , Hutson Kate S.
Published: February 2025

The bacterial skin disease tenacibaculosis, caused by Tenacibaculum species, affects numerous economically important marine fish, including salmonids. This study reports the ability of three Tenacibaculum maritimum strains, belonging to different molecular O‐AGC types, and a single Tenacibaculum dicentrarchi strain to induce tenacibaculosis in farmed Chinook salmon (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha, Walbaum 1792) in Aotearoa New Zealand. Naïve Chinook salmon were exposed to T. maritimum (2 × 108 cells/mL) and T. dicentrarchi (2 × 107 cells/mL) by immersion using natural seawater. Clinical signs of tenacibaculosis were apparent in all T. maritimum strains used in the challenged fish. Of these, 100% of the fish challenged with O‐AGC Type 2‐1 and Type 3‐2 strains became moribund, whereas only 60% of the O‐AGC Type 3‐0 challenged fish became moribund. Fish exposed to T. dicentrarchi showed more severe symptoms, exposing musculature in 51% of the challenged population, with 28% of fish becoming moribund. Gross pathological signs of fin rot, scale loss, skin ulcers and haemorrhagic skin spots were observed for both Tenacibaculum species and were consistent with those observed on farmed fish. Pure T. maritimum and T. dicentrarchi cultures were reisolated from epidermal damage of challenged fish. Tenacibaculum species was not isolated from the anterior kidney of affected fish, which indicates no systemic infection in Chinook salmon.
AutoSAFT: Autofocusing for extended depth of imaging in scanning acoustic microscopy
Authors: Khan M Sarim Ameed , Ojha Shivam , Gupta Shubham Kumar , Shelke Amit , Ahmad Azeem , Melandsø Frank , Habib Anowarul
Published: February 2025

In the scanning acoustic microscopy (SAM) imaging, it is essential to address the diminished lateral resolution in the out‐of‐focus region, as image quality correlates with the ultrasound propagation distance either above or below the focal plane. To focus the scanned image, a refocusing technique called synthetic aperture focusing technique (SAFT) is widely used, which improves the resolution by extending the depth of focus manually. In SAM, refocusing the image accurately is challenging without prior defocusing information. This paper introduces AutoSAFT, an automated version of SAFT. It employs the reference‐less image‐quality index (IQI) called Blind/Referenceless Image Spatial Quality Evaluator (BRISQUE) score to evaluate and optimise the defocusing distance automatically. The focused images were qualitatively analysed using metrics such as structural similarity index matrix (SSIM) and peak signal‐to‐noise ratio (PSNR). The combined qualitative and quantitative analysis demonstrates that the AutoSAFT technique is the most suitable method for the automatic focusing of acoustic imaging from the SAM. The proposed AutoSAFT opens a new avenue in photoacoustic image focusing methodologies.
Labour Mobility and Colonial and Forced Labour Regimes in Indonesia: A Long‐Term View
Authors: Bosma Ulbe
Published: February 2025

Incorporated into the global economy to provide the commodities for core capitalist countries, Indonesia experienced a variety of predominantly unfree labour regimes that connected local societies to global markets. These regimes varied from slavery, coerced labour imposed by colonial authorities, to extensive patterns of leverage employers hold over workers through advance payments. This paper gives an overview of different forms of exploitation pursued both by Dutch colonialism as well as local rulers from the 1600s onwards; it explores how these varied over time and place and how a major divergence of labour regimes happened in the 19th century wherein densely populated Java followed a different trajectory from other islands that were mostly thinly populated. In Java, plantation agriculture became embedded in local rural economies whereas production for the global market in other parts of the Indonesian archipelago led to an upsurge of slave‐based production. Only in the 20th century did this bifurcated pattern of labour recruitment start to converge, wherein hundreds of thousands of Javanese migrant workers were recruited under indentured conditions. In conclusion, the paper demonstrates how these patterns have left their legacies in postcolonial times.
Longitudinal Evaluation of Vitamin D, Parathyroid Hormone, Antimicrobial Peptides, and Immunomodulatory Genes in Hospitalized Foals
Authors: Kamr Ahmed M. , Bartish Celine , Summers Jamie , Horton Julia , Hostnik Laura D. , Orr Kindra , Browne Nimet , Dembek Katarzyna A. , Saliba Caroline , Gomez Diego E. , Toribio Ramiro E.
Published: February 2025

Background

Information about the association of antimicrobial peptides with hypovitaminosis D in hospitalized foals is lacking.

Hypothesis/Objectives

We aimed to longitudinally determine the association of serum concentrations of vitamin D metabolites, vitamin D binding protein (DBP), and parathyroid hormone (PTH) with antimicrobial peptides (β‐defensin‐1 and cathelicidin‐1) and the mRNA expression of the vitamin D receptor (VDR), 1α‐hydroxylase (CYP27B1), 24‐hydroxylase (CYP24A1), toll‐like receptor‐4 (TLR‐4), tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α), interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β), disease severity, and mortality in hospitalized foals. We hypothesized that hypovitaminosis D would be associated with decreased serum concentrations of antimicrobial peptides, disease severity, and mortality in hospitalized foals.

Animals

One hundred nine foals ≤ 72 h of age divided into hospitalized (n = 83; 60 septic, 23 sick nonseptic [SNS]) and healthy (n = 26) foals.

Methods

Blood samples were collected on admission (0), and 24, 48, and 72 h after admission from healthy and hospitalized foals. Data were analyzed by repeated measure methods.

Results

Serum 25(OH)D, 1,25(OH)2D, DBP, β‐defensin‐1, and cathlicidin‐1 concentrations were significantly lower, whereas PTH concentrations were higher in hospitalized compared to healthy foals at different times during hospitalization (p < 0.05). Septic foals had lower VDR and CYP27B1, but higher TLR‐4, TNF‐α, and IL‐1β mRNA expression than in healthy foals (p < 0.05). Decreased serum 25(OH)D, β‐defensin‐1, and cathelicidin‐1, and high PTH concentrations were associated with higher odds of death in hospitalized foals (p < 0.05).

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Decreased vitamin D metabolite concentrations and decreased antimicrobial peptide concentrations suggest that vitamin D has important immunomodulatory functions in newborn foals.
Carbon and Nitrogen Stable Isotopes Evidence High Trophic Segregation Within a Meso‐ to Bathypelagic Micronektonic Invertebrate Community From Canyons in the North‐East Atlantic
Authors: Loutrage Liz , Spitz Jérôme , Brind'Amour Anik , Chouvelon Tiphaine
Published: February 2025

In deep‐pelagic ecosystems, the trophic ecology of micronektonic species (such as fish, jellyfish, krill, shrimps, and cephalopods) is largely overlooked, with most research focusing almost exclusively on fish. However, like fish, invertebrate organisms play key roles in food webs, both as consumers and as predators. Here, we aimed to provide an integrated overview of the relative trophic position, segregation, and overlap of all main groups of species constituting the deep‐pelagic micronektonic community. Stable nitrogen (δ15N) and carbon (δ13C) isotope compositions have thus been measured in 13 species belonging to three groups (jellyfish, crustaceans, and cephalopods) sampled in the Bay of Biscay slope area (Northeast Atlantic), as proxies for trophic level and feeding habitat of species. The addition of published isotopic data from deep‐pelagic fish sampled in the same zone also allowed the inclusion of vertebrates in the analyses of the trophic structure of the community. The invertebrate community exhibited wide ranges of δ15N and δ13C values (6.45‰ and 2.71‰, respectively). Cephalopods appeared to segregate along a continuum of δ15N values, with important differences between muscular and fast‐swimming species (Histioteuthis reversa and Todarodes sagittatus) presenting higher δ15N values than gelatinous species (Teuthowenia megalops and Haliphron atlanticus). In contrast, crustaceans appeared to have lower δ15N values and to be more strongly segregated by δ13C values, suggesting different feeding habitats (range δ13C = 2.71‰). Some species showed more pelagic (13C‐depleted) signatures (e.g., Meganyctiphanes norvegica) while others showed 13C‐enriched values, possibly corresponding to a more benthopelagic diet (e.g., the two Pasiphaeidae species). Isotopic niche calculations at the group level revealed important overlaps between cephalopods and fish, as well as between jellyfish and crustaceans. These results are of significant importance for understanding the complex functioning of growing interest deep‐pelagic food webs on slope areas, by promoting a multi‐taxa approach.