bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring the fusion of virtual fitting rooms and social media: a study on consumer behaviour and purchase intentions
Authors: Konale Madhura , Panakaje Niyaz , Parvin S. M. Riha , Kulal Abhinandan , Kambali Ujwala
Published: February 2025

Purpose

In the evolving digital landscape, customers connect with the diversified digital marketing platforms, posing both obstacles and opportunities to consumers. In response to the changing landscape of social media and technical advances within the fashion business, the study aims to investigate the role of virtual fitting rooms in influencing consumer behaviour and purchase intentions through social media, with respect to fashion products.

Design/methodology/approach

The study used a combination of primary and secondary data, relying on secondary sources to identify research gaps and construct the conceptual framework and a survey-based approach enabled the collection of 352 responses from metropolitan cities of India like Bangalore, Chennai, Kolkata and New Delhi using snowball sampling for studying research variables. The hypothetical relationships were tested using various statistical techniques such as multiple regression analysis, measurement model assessment using confirmatory factor analysis and structural equation modeling (SEM).

Findings

The present study connects the dots between social media, virtual fitting rooms, engagement characteristics, buying intentions and consumer purchasing behaviour by manifesting a positive association with engagement metrics that correspond to the current user-behaviour pattern. As per results, virtual fitting rooms are significantly associated with effectiveness of social media. Moreover, social media as a mediator significantly amplifies the impact of virtual fitting rooms on the intents and behaviour of consumers while making purchases.

Originality/value

Research spotlights the novel findings (i.e. interactive, visual, personalized shopping moments and social capabilities features) of social media in enhancing the interaction with virtual fitting rooms, which shapes the fashion purchasing decisions.
Proteasome Augmentation Mitigates Age‐Related Cognitive Decline in Mice
Authors: Parker Danitra , Davidson Kanisa , Osmulski Pawel A. , Gaczynska Maria , Pickering Andrew M.
Published: February 2025

The aging brain experiences a significant decline in proteasome function. The proteasome is critical for many key neuronal functions including neuronal plasticity, and memory formation/retention. Treatment with proteasome inhibitors impairs these processes. Our study reveals a marked reduction in 20S and 26S proteasome activities in aged mice brains, including in the hippocampus, this is driven by reduced functionality of aged proteasome. The decline in proteasome activity is matched by a decline in 20S proteasome assembly. In contrast, 26S proteasome assembly was found to increase with age, though 26S proteasome activity was still found to decline. Our data suggests that age‐related declines in proteasome activity is driven predominantly by reduced functionality of proteasome rather than altered composition. By overexpressing the proteasome subunit PSMB5 in the neurons of mice to increase the proteasome content and thus enhance its functionality, we slowed age‐related declines in spatial learning and memory. We then showed acute treatment with a proteasome activator to rescue spatial learning and memory deficits in aged mice. These findings highlight the potential of proteasome augmentation as a therapeutic strategy to mitigate age‐related cognitive declines.
Participation in the National Cervical Screening Program Among Women Who Gave Birth in New South Wales, Australia by Place of Maternal Birth: A Data Linkage Analysis
Authors: Yuill Susan , Smith Megan A. , Velentzis Louiza S. , Nisha Monjura , Saville Marion , Kliewer Erich V. , Bateson Deborah , Canfell Karen
Published: February 2025

Objective

High participation rates in the National Cervical Screening Program (NCSP) by all groups of women are required to ensure the equitable elimination of cervical cancer in Australia. In this study, we examine screening participation of overseas‐born women compared to Australian‐born women who gave birth.

Design

Population‐based retrospective cohort study using linked health datasets.

Setting and Participants

Women who gave birth in New South Wales between January 1, 2000 and June 30, 2017.

Main Outcome Measures

Participation in the NCSP (≥ 1 cytology test) in the 3‐ and 5‐year periods prior to delivery by place of maternal birth, adjusted for multiple socio‐demographic and health characteristics.

Results

Among the 1 332 669 mothers who gave birth over the study period, overall cervical screening participation in the 3‐ and 5‐year periods prior to delivery was 67.0% and 75.7%, respectively. Participation was lower for overseas‐born mothers compared to Australian‐born mothers for both the 3‐year (57.8% vs. 71.7%; adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 0.51, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.50–0.51) and 5‐year (64.9% vs. 81.2%; aOR: 0.40, 95% CI: 0.40–0.40) participation periods. All groups of overseas‐born women had substantially lower screening participation compared to Australian‐born women, with the lowest relative 3‐year participation in mothers born in Southern/Central Asia (aOR: 0.30, 95% CI: 0.30–0.31), Oceania (aOR: 0.31, 95% CI: 0.30–0.32), North‐East Asia (aOR: 0.49, 95% CI: 0.48–0.50), and New Zealand (aOR: 0.49, 95% CI: 0.48–0.51).

Conclusions

Overseas‐born women had around half the cervical screening participation in the period prior to birth compared to Australian‐born women. It is likely that opportunities to screen these under‐screened groups during the antenatal period, typically a time of repeated health services contact, are missed.
Clinical and Histopathological Insights Into Lupus Miliaris Disseminatus Faciei: A Review of 70 Cases
Authors: Nasimi Maryam , Bandani Saba , Kamyab Kambiz , Etesami Ifa , Montazeri Sahar , Saberi Fatemeh , Babaie Hanie
Published: February 2025

Background

Lupus miliaris disseminatus faciei (LMDF) is a granulomatous inflammatory disease often manifesting on the face as red, brown, or yellow papules. Lesions can cause scarring and disfigurement. There is no standard treatment due to a limited understanding of the etiology.

Method

This review examines the clinical and histopathological characteristics of 70 LMDF patients who were diagnosed from 2016 to 2022.

Results

The patients' mean age was 32.43, with a majority being in their 20s and 30s. Females were more affected during the fourth decade and beyond. The average disease duration among patients was 7.2 months. All of them had facial involvement, mostly around the eyes and on the eyelids. Histopathological analysis revealed epithelioid granulomas with inflammatory cell infiltration and, in some cases, central caseous necrosis. A relationship between the granuloma and the pilosebaceous unit was seen in 75.7% of cases. Epidermal changes, like acanthosis, were found in 47.1% of cases. We also report the existence of linear vessels in 25 (35.7%) cases.

Conclusion

Most authors now consider LMDF a distinct entity, but because of its resemblance to other diseases like granulomatous rosacea, the diagnosis is challenging. Unlike many studies in this field, we provide a quite large sample and report telangiectasia in LMDF patients, which highlights the importance of precisely differentiating LMDF from rosacea. Delay in diagnosis and treatment increases the risk of scarring.

Overall, we believe this study provides valuable insights into the demographics and histopathology of LMDF, contributing to the understanding of this challenging skin disorder.
Research in practice: Immune checkpoint inhibitor related autoimmune bullous dermatosis
Authors: Pruessmann Jasper N. , Pruessmann Wiebke , Sadik Christian D.
Published: February 2025

Immune checkpoint receptors and ligands such as cytotoxic T lymphocyte antigen‐4 (CTLA‐4), programmed death‐1 (PD‐1) and ligand‐1 (PD‐L1) are widely expressed on immune and non‐immune cells and fine tune the activation level of immune cells, thus, enabling, preventing, or terminating immune responses. Blockade of CTLA‐4, PD‐1 or PD‐L1 by checkpoint inhibitors (CIs), unleashing immune responses, has become a mainstay in the treatment of diverse types of cancer. The induction of autoinflammatory, yet unspecific tissue damage in diverse organs is called an immune related adverse event (irAE), a class side‐effect of CIs and may require the discontinuation of immunotherapy. Among frequent skin rashes, CIs targeting the PD‐L1/PD‐1 axis can elicit the IgG autoantibody‐ and granulocyte‐driven bullous pemphigoid (BP) in about 0.3% to 0.6% of treated patients. Pathogenesis of BP requires a complex cellular inflammatory response after anti‐BP180 autoantibody binding to the dermal epidermal junction. The prevalence of autoantibodies against BP180 in healthy blood donors of approximately 0.52% equals the prevalence of irBP among treated cancer patients, underlining the potential relevance of the PD‐1 mediated regulation of tissue inflammation for spontaneous BP. If skin rashes appear during CI therapy, biopsies should be taken and examined by histopathological and direct immunofluorescence microscopy.
Regional Representation in the European Parliament: Parliamentary Questions on Geographical Indications
Authors: Huysmans Martijn , Gheyle Niels
Published: February 2025

The European Parliament represents the citizens of the European Union. However, individual Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) also face incentives to represent more narrow regional economic interests. Geographical Indications (GIs) such as Asiago or Champagne are an ideal policy area to study regional representation. Their defined regions provide clear incentives and a reliable measurement of regional representation. This article codes and analyses the written questions on GIs posed by MEPs during the period 2009–2019. Descriptively, we find that MEPs often mention products from their region. We also find that MEPs focus their questions on contentious products and on politicized free trade agreements. Contributing to the debate on representation in the European Parliament, we find evidence for more regional representation by MEPs from countries with regional lists for EP elections. We conclude with the implications of our research for representation in the European Union and the idea of transnational lists.
Multidimensional insights about healthy aging from the cohort study for community‐dwelling older adults: The SONIC study
Authors: Kamide Kei , Ikebe Kazunori , Masui Yukie , Nakagawa Takeshi , Kabayama Mai , Akasaka Hiroshi , Mameno Tomoaki , Murotani Yuki , Ogawa Madoka , Yasumoto Saori , Yamamoto Koichi , Hirata Takumi , Arai Yasumichi , Gondo Yasuyuki ,   the SONIC study group
Published: February 2025

The Septuagenarian, Octogenarian, Nonagenarian Investigation with Centenarian (SONIC) study was established considering population trends and targeting the oldest‐old population. This study is unique in its narrow age range, consisting of individuals aged in their 70s, 80s and 90s, and is carried out as a longitudinal cohort study with follow ups every 3 years in urban and rural areas of eastern and western Japan. The aims of the SONIC study are primarily to clarify aging‐related changes in multiple domains of human functioning, explore the dynamics of interactions among these domains and identify factors influencing healthy longevity, including psychological well‐being. Investigations spanning medical, dental, nutritional, psychological and sociological fields were carried out by specialists, yielding important results. Findings from the SONIC study in Japan, a super‐aged society, will provide valuable information for addressing the global aging trend. This review introduces the results from the SONIC study, and explains factors contributing to healthy longevity and happy aging. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2025; ••: ••–••.
Differential Risk Factors for Early Intravesical Recurrence After Radical Nephroureterectomy for Upper Urinary Tract Carcinoma According to the History of Non‐Muscle Invasive Bladder Cancer
Authors: Shindo Tetsuya , Ueki Yohei , Muranaka Ippei , Kobayashi Genki , Miyamoto Shintaro , Kunishima Yasuharu , Sato Shunsuke , Okada Manabu , Kato Shuichi , Kato Ryuichi , Adachi Hideki , Matsukawa Masanori , Takayanagi Akio , Ito Naoki , Wanifuchi Atsushi , Maehana Takeshi , Kyoda Yuki , Hashimoto Kohei , Kobayashi Ko , Tanaka Toshiaki , Masumori Naoya
Published: February 2025

Objectives

To evaluate the preoperative risk factors for early intravesical recurrence after radical nephroureterectomy (RNU) in patients with upper urinary tract carcinoma (UTUC) according to the history of non‐muscle invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC).

Methods

We retrospectively evaluated patients who underwent RNU for UTUC between 2012 and 2022 at 14 hospitals. Early recurrence was defined as intravesical pathologically confirmed recurrence within 1 year after RNU. Patients who received single‐dose immediate intravesical instillation (IVI) as prevention for intravesical recurrence were excluded. Using preoperative factors, we examined the risk factors for early intravesical recurrences in patients with and without a history of NMIBC. Death from any cause within 1 year after RNU was regarded as a competitive risk.

Results

We included 504 UTUC patients who were treated with RNU. Among these patients, 126 (25.0%) had a history of NMIBC, whereas 378 (75%) did not. According to multivariate analysis, the presence of macrohematuria, positive cytology in self‐voided urine, and performing diagnostic ureteroscopy prior to RNU were risk factors in patients without a history of NMIBC. On the other hand, an NMIBC diagnosis within 1 year prior to RNU and an extravesical approach for bladder cuff management were risk factors in RNU‐treated patients with a history of NMIBC.

Conclusions

Early intravesical recurrence risk factors differ between UTUC patients with and without a history of NMIBC. Different stratification may be needed to predict intravesical recurrence risk in these two types of UTUC patients.
MetS‐Z: A gender‐ and age‐specific scoring system for predicting type 2 diabetes
Authors: Hsu Paul Wei‐Che , Chen Yi‐Rong , Sheu Wayne Huey‐Herng
Published: February 2025

Aims

Current metabolic syndrome (mets) criteria often lack consideration for age and gender differences. This study introduces the mets‐Z score, a novel tool designed to enhance mets assessment and improve long‐term outcome predictions.

Materials and Methods

The mets‐Z score was developed using principal component analysis (PCA) to weight five mets indicators—waist circumference, blood glucose, blood pressure, high‐density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, and triglycerides—by gender and age. Data from 188,739 Taiwan Biobank participants, stratified by gender and age groups (20–39, 40–54, 55–64, 65+ years), were analyzed. Predictive performance for type 2 diabetes mellitus onset was assessed over a 4‐ to 5‐year follow‐up.

Results

The mets‐Z score achieved superior accuracy in predicting type 2 diabetes mellitus onset, with an AUC of 0.76 in men and 0.80 in women, significantly outperforming conventional indices (P < 0.0001).

Conclusions

By integrating age‐ and gender‐specific variations, the mets‐Z score provides a more personalized and precise tool for assessing metabolic and diabetes risk, surpassing existing methods. The tool is available for public use at http://bioinfolab.nhri.edu.tw/metsz/, supporting broader applications in precision medicine.
Preschool Teacher Training on Neurodevelopmental Concerns in Children: A Pilot Study
Authors: Hamaguchi Masako , Kitazoe Noriko , Fukunaga Ichiro , Gillberg Christopher
Published: February 2025

Preschool teacher training (TT) about children's neurodevelopmental concerns consisted of six monthly workshops and one booster session 3 months after the sixth session that lasted 90–105 min each. Each teacher was responsible for one child and provided different interventions between sessions. A questionnaire was administered pre‐ and post‐workshop. Of the 46 participants, we analyzed the results of 44. The Total Deviance/Difficulties score on the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) for children decreased significantly post‐training, with a large effect size. The SDQ subscale scores revealed larger effect sizes for Peer Problems and Prosocial Behavior and medium effect sizes for Hyperactivity and Emotional Symptoms. Teachers' Rosenberg Self‐Esteem Scale scores increased significantly with a medium effect size. The Pre‐School Teacher Efficacy Scale showed no significant differences with a small effect size. Thus, TT may benefit both children's behavior and teacher's self‐esteem. However, it is unclear whether these changes are attributable to actual changes in the children's or teachers' understanding of their growth and development, or to both. Further studies are required to confirm these findings.
Antinomies of Alignment Redux: The United Arab Emirates and the United States
Authors: Lawson Fred H. , Legrenzi Matteo
Published: February 2025

Over the past three decades, the United Arab Emirates has forged a sturdy bilateral security alignment with the United States. It has also pursued foreign policies that conflict with US interests in the Gulf and the broader Middle East. This contradiction is usually attributed to a hedging strategy. However, a more accurate analysis indicates that this reflects the peculiar type of alignment that exists between the two countries: a dyadic protectorate. Protectorates exhibit a tendency toward obsolescence, which gives the protected state both the incentive and the capacity to assert its self‐interests. Protectors have little incentive to block such activism, partly because countermeasures are costly and partly because they tend to be counterproductive. Recent trends in UAE‐US relations evidence the willingness and ability of a protected state to push the limits of a dyadic protectorate, but only after the alignment obsolesces.
Different Transcriptome Signatures of the Lymphatic and the Blood Vessels From Rat Mesentery Reveal Distinct Function Characteristics
Authors: Jing Yumeng , Zhai Jiayi , Gao Min , Xu Xiu , Zhao Zi‐Gang , Zhao Zhen‐Ao
Published: February 2025

Objective

Lymphatic vessels and blood vessels have some similarities in structure, but they have distinct contraction characteristics and functions. Revealing the detailed transcriptional differences of lymphatic, artery and vein are required for circulation research.

Methods

The tissues of the mesenteric lymphatic, artery, and vein were collected from Wistar rats. The transcriptome signatures of these tissues from RNA‐seq (RNA sequencing) were analyzed using bioinformatic methods.

Results

GO (gene ontology) enrichment showed the three tissues have distinct gene expression patterns in extracellular matrix, cell adhesion molecule binding, receptor ligand activity, and contractile fiber. The genes involved in cell contractility were also differently expressed, which were enriched into the KEGG (Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes) pathways of cytoskeleton in muscle cells, vascular smooth muscle contraction, and renin‐angiotensin system. Through PPI (protein–protein interaction) analysis, we identified 43 differently expressed hub genes in the three tissues. Thirty‐four transcription factors and cofactors were identified as important for the normal function of the three tissues. Furthermore, we screened out 20 potential marker genes for each tissue.

Conclusions

Our study described the transcriptome signatures of mesenteric lymphatic, artery, and vein, shedding light on the distinct contraction mechanisms of these tissues. These results also provided potential therapeutic targets for circulation diseases and potential markers for lymphatic and blood vessel studies.
The chromosome‐scale assembly of the Salvia plebeia genome provides insight into the biosynthesis and regulation of rosmarinic acid
Authors: Dai Yiqun , He Mengqian , Liu Hui , Zeng Huihui , Wang Kaixuan , Wang Rui , Ma Xiaojing , Zhu Yan , Xie Guoyong , Zhao Yucheng , Qin Minjian
Published: February 2025

Salvia plebeia is an important traditional Chinese medicinal herb, with flavonoids and phenolic acids as its primary bioactive components. However, the absence of a reference genome hinders our understanding of genetic basis underlying the synthesis of these components. Here, we present a high‐quality, chromosome‐scale genome assembly of S. plebeia, spanning 1.22 Gb, with a contig N50 of 91.72 Mb and 36 861 annotated protein‐coding genes. Leveraging the genome data, we identified four catalytic enzymes—one rosmarinic acid synthase (RAS) and three cytochrome P450 monooxygenases (CYP450s) —in S. plebeia, which are involved in rosmarinic acid biosynthesis. We demonstrate that SpRAS catalyses the conjugation of various acyl donors and acceptors, resulting in the formation of rosmarinic acid and its precursor compounds. SpCYP98A75, SpCYP98A77 and SpCYP98A78 catalyse the formation of rosmarinic acid from its precursors at either the C‐3 or the C‐3′ position. Notably, SpCYP98A75 exhibited a stronger hydroxylation capacity at the C‐3′ position, whereas SpCYP98A77 and SpCYP98A78 demonstrate greater hydroxylation efficiency at the C‐3 position. Furthermore, SpCYP98A75 hydroxylated both the C‐3 and C‐3′ positions simultaneously, promoting the conversion of 4‐coumaroyl‐4′‐hydroxyphenyllactic acid to rosmarinic acid. Next, using a hairy root genetic transformation system for S. plebeia, we identified a basic helix–loop–helix protein type transcription factor, SpbHLH54, which positively regulates the biosynthesis of rosmarinic acid and homoplantaginin in S. plebeia. These findings provide a valuable genomic resource for elucidating the mechanisms of rosmarinic acid biosynthesis and its regulation and improve the understanding of evolutionary patterns within the Lamiaceae family.
Salicylic Acid, Hypersensitive Response and RBOHD‐Mediated Hydrogen Peroxide Accumulation Play Key Roles in Black Rot Resistance of Crucifers
Authors: Lin Chia‐Hua , Lee Bo‐Yi , Ou Yun‐Ting , Chiang Min‐Jui , Chen Chao‐Ying
Published: February 2025

Black rot caused by hemibiotrophic Xanthomonas campestris pv. campestris (Xcc) is a great problem in crucifer crop production. Various host responses are activated upon Xcc attack; however, their roles in black rot resistance remain ambiguous. In this study, a highly black rot resistance of host plants was achieved by applying a field‐screened systemic resistance‐eliciting Bacillus velezensis strain 37‐1. The contributions of strain 37‐1‐altered host responses to Xcc resistance were then investigated in Arabidopsis. Hypersensitive response and hydrogen peroxide accumulation were demonstrated beneficial for Xcc infection by using nrg1 and rbohd mutants, histochemical staining against host cell death and reactive oxygen species, detection of antioxidant enzyme activity and RT‐qPCR assay. By contrast, salicylic acid was proven essential for black rot suppression by using NahG transformant, mutants impaired in defence hormone synthesis and signalling pathway, and RT‐qPCR assay. Additionally, both isochorismate synthase and phenylalanine ammonia‐lyase pathways for salicylic acid biosynthesis were found to be involved in resistance to Xcc. These findings improve the knowledge of host defence responses crucial for fighting off hemibiotrophic Xcc.
Identifiability and estimation of the competing risks model under exclusion restrictions
Authors: Hiabu Munir , Lo Simon M.S. , Wilke Ralf A.
Published: February 2025

The nonidentifiability of the competing risks model precludes the empirical researcher from obtaining informative estimation results unless she is willing to impose restrictions on the model. Inspired by the heavy use of exclusion restrictions in other areas of statistics, we impose an exclusion restriction to derive a new identifiability result for the competing risks model. This exclusion restriction could be more easy to justify than the restrictions of existing approaches which are on the dependence structure or marginal distributions. It is shown that the degree of risk dependence of an Archimedean copula is identifiable without parametric restrictions on the marginal distributions of the competing risks. We introduce a semiparametric estimation approach for the nonparametric marginals and the parametric copula. Our simulation results demonstrate that the degree of risk dependence can be estimated without parametric restrictions on the marginal distributions. It therefore overcomes the main disadvantage of the copula graphic estimator.
The Effectiveness of Physical Activity and Nutrition Interventions for Children and Adolescents With Cerebral Palsy to Improve Physical Health and Cognitive Outcomes: A Systematic Review
Authors: Cossington Jo , Coe Shelly , Nagy Liana , Mitaras Thomas , Dawes Helen
Published: February 2025

Purpose: Using systematic review methodology, we set out to describe the evidence for physical activity and nutrition interventions for children and adolescents with cerebral palsy (CP) as compared with no intervention or exposure that reports physical health and cognitive outcomes. Method: Quantitative, primary studies that explored the effectiveness of these interventions, replicable in school and home contexts, in comparison to any other or no intervention or exposure in children and adolescents between the ages of 6–18 years old with a diagnosis of cerebral palsy were included (PROSPERO CRD42022322143). Risk of bias was assessed by Joanna Briggs Institute and QualSyst. Results: A total of 16 international heterogeneous studies (13 physical activity and 3 nutrition) with interventions ranging from a single exposure to 8 months, with quality 58% to 89% and effectiveness, D = 0.03 to 0.97, were included. Outcome measures were varied. Conclusion: The review brings together a number of high-quality studies on physical activity and nutrition interventions and promising findings of impact on cardiovascular, musculoskeletal, and cognitive outcomes. Evidence supports implementation of these interventions in community contexts. Future research would benefit from agreement on the use of core outcome measures for meta-synthesis.
Developmental origins and evolution of pallial cell types and structures in birds
Authors: Zaremba Bastienne , Fallahshahroudi Amir , Schneider Céline , Schmidt Julia , Sarropoulos Ioannis , Leushkin Evgeny , Berki Bianka , Van Poucke Enya , Jensen Per , Senovilla-Ganzo Rodrigo , Hervas-Sotomayor Francisca , Trost Nils , Lamanna Francesco , Sepp Mari , García-Moreno Fernando , Kaessmann Henrik
Published: February 2025

Innovations in the pallium likely facilitated the evolution of advanced cognitive abilities in birds. We therefore scrutinized its cellular composition and evolution using cell type atlases from chicken, mouse, and nonavian reptiles. We found that the avian pallium shares most inhibitory neuron types with other amniotes. Whereas excitatory neuron types in amniote hippocampal regions show evolutionary conservation, those in other pallial regions have diverged. Neurons in the avian mesopallium display gene expression profiles akin to the mammalian claustrum and deep cortical layers, while certain nidopallial cell types resemble neurons in the piriform cortex. Lastly, we observed substantial gene expression convergence between the dorsally located hyperpallium and ventrally located nidopallium during late development, suggesting that topological location does not always dictate gene expression programs determining functional properties in the adult avian pallium.
Constrained roads to complex brains
Authors: Gattoni Giacomo , Tosches Maria Antonietta
Published: February 2025

Neural development and brain circuit evolution converged in birds and mammals
Thrifting iridium for hydrogen
Authors: Pendergast Andrew D. , Boettcher Shannon W.
Published: February 2025

Anchoring catalysts on an engineered oxide support enables stable water electrolysis
Congressional Republicans take aim at recent Biden regulations
Authors: Charles Dan
Published: February 2025

Climate, ocean archaeology rules could be reversed
Validation of CHC Satisfiability with ATHENA
Authors: Otoni Rodrigo , Blicha Martin , Eugster Patrick , Sharygina Natasha
Published: February 2025

Formal verification tooling increasingly relies on logic solvers as automated reasoning engines. A commonality among these solvers is the high complexity of their codebases, which makes bug occurrence disturbingly frequent. Tool competitions have showcased many examples of state-of-the-art solvers disagreeing on the satisfiability of logic formulas, be it solvers for Boolean satisfiability (SAT), satisfiability modulo theories (SMT), or constrained Horn clauses (CHC). The validation of solvers’ results is thus of paramount importance, in order to increase the confidence not only in the solvers themselves, but also in the tooling which they underpin. Among the formalisms commonly used by modern verification tools, CHC is one that has seen, at the same time, extensive practical usage and very little efforts in result validation. We propose a two-layered validation approach for witnesses of CHC satisfiability that validates CHC models via proof-backed SMT queries. We developed a modular evaluation framework, ATHENA, and assessed the approach’s viability via large scale experimentation, comparing three CHC solvers, five SMT solvers, and five proof checkers. Our results indicate that the approach is feasible, with potential to be incorporated into CHC-based tooling, and also confirm the need for validation, with fourteen bugs being found in the tools used.
Optimal Regularization for the Distribution of Relaxation Times via Frequency-Band Selection
Authors: Carbone Paolo , De Angelis Alessio , Bertei Antonio , Maradesa Adeleke , Ciucci Francesco
Published: February 2025

Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) is a powerful analytical technique for characterizing electrochemical energy storage and conversion systems. Among the methods for analyzing EIS data, the distribution of relaxation times (DRT) has emerged as a valuable tool for quantitative interpretation. DRT estimation typically relies on regularized least squares methods, where the selection of an appropriate regularization parameter remains a key challenge. This selection critically affects the balance between the smoothness of the estimated curves and the resolution of physically meaningful features in the DRT. We introduce a novel frequency-domain approach, specifically focused on ridge regression regularization, that provides objective criteria for regularization parameter selection. Our method employs specialized cost functions to analyze user-defined frequency components in the measurement data, complementing existing cross-validation approaches. Extensive Monte Carlo simulations demonstrate the method’s effectiveness in comparison to established techniques. The approach not only yields robust results but also provides intuitive visualizations to support parameter selection. Successful validation across multiple experimental datasets confirms its practical utility.
Min–Max Filtering and Exponential Fossa Optimization Algorithm–Based Parallel Convolutional Neural Network for Heart Disease Detection
Authors: S. Aathilakshmi , S. Balasubramaniam , T. A. Sivakumar , V. Lakshmi Chetana
Published: February 2025

Heart disease is a leading cause of death worldwide, affecting millions of lives each year. Earlier and more accurate heart disease detection helps people to save their valuable lives. Many existing systems remain costly and inaccurate. To overcome these issues, an exponential fossa optimization algorithm–based parallel convolutional neural network (EFOA‐PCNN) is proposed in this paper for efficient heart disease detection. Initially, the heart disease data are allowed for data normalization, which is performed by min–max normalization. These normalized data are forwarded to the feature selection phase, which is conducted based on chord distance. Finally, heart disease detection is performed using a parallel convolutional neural network (PCNN) that is trained using the EFOA. Here, the EFOA is developed by the combination of the fossa optimization algorithm (FOA) and exponentially weighted moving average (EWMA). The performance of the proposed EFOA‐PCNN is analysed by three metrics, such as specificity, sensitivity, and accuracy, and the F1 score that gained superior values of 91.95%, 91.76%, 91.86%, and 92.39%. These results highlight the robustness and reliability of the proposed method in comparison to traditional approaches.
Equivalence of Almost N‐Automorphism‐Invariant and Almost N‐Pseudo‐Injective Modules
Authors: Alkinani Amnah A. , Alghamdi Ahmad M.
Published: February 2025

The objective of this work is to generalize a result of Fuchigami, Kuratomi, and Shibata, published in the Journal of Algebra and Its Applications, Vol. 23, No. 2, 2450027(2024). According to this result, almost N‐invariant modules and almost N‐injective modules are equivalent. This equivalence was established by examining the homomorphisms between their injective hulls and considering certain conditions. Furthermore, they investigated the relationship between generalized N‐injective, almost N‐injective, and N‐almost‐invariant modules. Extending this work, we introduce a new generalization of these modules, which we call almost N‐automorphism‐invariant modules. We examine their characteristics and injective hulls under specific isomorphism conditions. We also investigate their equivalence to almost N‐pseudo‐injective modules in the context of module extensions.
Factors Influencing Child Welfare Clinic Attendance in a Periurban Community: A Descriptive Cross‐Sectional Study
Authors: Torgbor-Anaman Judith A. , Johnson Beatrice B. , Tackie Vivian , Konlan Kennedy Diema
Published: February 2025

Introduction: Child welfare clinics (CWCs) provide a platform for health practitioners to communicate with caregivers and provide growth monitoring, childhood immunization, health education, and other health promotion services. This study described factors influencing caregivers’ attendance at CWC in the Godokpe Community in Ho.

Methodology: This is a cross‐sectional study that used questionnaires for data collection among 403 caregivers having children under 5 years. The respondents were selected using convenience sampling techniques. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 25 to generate descriptive statistics and to test associations between independent variables and CWC attendance. A p value ≤ 0.05 was statistically significant.

Results: The findings indicated that 80.4% of the caregivers had a high level of knowledge about CWC. The factors that influenced continued CWC attendance were encouragement by nurses (94.3%), the nurses being empathetic (93.8%), nurses showing a positive attitude toward caregivers (91.8%), the perception that attending CWC is an ideal childcare process (91.6%), having less waiting time (90.8%), having knowledge on child care practices (90.6%), having an appropriate timing for CWC services (90.1%), perception that there is the provision of adequate care for sick children at CWC (89.8%), perception that CWC is a needful care practice for children (82.4%), and acknowledging CWC as a requirement stated in the child welfare card (82.1%). Also, caregivers (79.0%) attended CWC sessions regularly. The adjusted odds ratio showed that caregivers without formal education (AOR = 0.10, 95% CI: 0.02–0.37, p value = 0.001), having primary education (AOR = 0.13, 95% CI: 0.04–0.37, p value < 0.001), and having secondary education (AOR = 0.34, 95% CI: 0.12–0.91, p value = 0.036) predicted CWC attendance compared to those with tertiary education. Experience at CWC (AOR = 2.52, 95% CI: 1.20–5.81, p value = 0.021) and having children between 0 and 11 months (AOR = 3.16, 95% CI: 1.50–6.89, p value = 0.003) predicted CWC attendance.

Conclusion: We identified various factors (sociodemographic and knowledge/perception) influencing CWC attendance. Healthcare providers must institute interventions targeting parents having lower education status and having children older than 11 months for continued CWC attendance even after the completion of routine immunizations. This may include continued home visits to provide CWC care to children less than 5 years old.
Table 3 from Variant of Uncertain Significance Patterns among Patients with Early-Onset Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Francis Rachel A. , Tavtigian Sean , Horton Carolyn , Holowatyj Andreana N.
Published: February 2025

Characteristics of 10 individuals with early-onset colorectal cancer who identified as Black and had a VUS detected in PMS2
Table 1 from Variant of Uncertain Significance Patterns among Patients with Early-Onset Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Francis Rachel A. , Tavtigian Sean , Horton Carolyn , Holowatyj Andreana N.
Published: February 2025

Summary of clinicodemographic features by VUS status among individuals with early-onset colorectal cancer
Data from Variant of Uncertain Significance Patterns among Patients with Early-Onset Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Francis Rachel A. , Tavtigian Sean , Horton Carolyn , Holowatyj Andreana N.
Published: February 2025

Abstract
The increasing burden of colorectal cancer among adults younger than age 50 years (early-onset colorectal cancer) and new National Comprehensive Cancer Network guidelines recommending universal genetic testing in early-onset colorectal cancer emphasize the need for accurate and timely variant classification in clinical care. In this study, we investigated germline variant of uncertain significance (VUS) patterns among diverse individuals with early-onset colorectal cancer. A total of 3,980 individuals ages 15 to 49 years when diagnosed with a first primary colorectal cancer, including 1,001 cases identifying as non-White, who underwent genetic testing for 14 colorectal cancer susceptibility genes performed by a clinical testing laboratory were included. A five-tier classification system was applied to all alterations to classify VUSs and was updated in March 2024. Disparities in variant reclassification rates emerged by self-identified race/ethnicity (P < 0.0001). A total of 4.8% of Ashkenazi Jewish, 18.2% of Asian, 12.2% of Black, 7.6% of Hispanic, and 6.7% of White individuals had at least one reclassified VUS. After reclassification, 356 individuals (8.9%) presented with 1+ VUSs. VUSs significantly varied by self-identified race/ethnicity (P = 0.008). Young individuals identifying as Black and Hispanic had significantly higher odds of presenting with a VUS compared with those identifying as White in multivariable logistic regression models. Individuals who identified as Black and Asian were significantly more likely to present with a VUS in PMS2 (OR = 3.59; 95% confidence interval, 1.73–7.48; P = 0.0006) and MSH2 (OR = 3.14; 95% confidence interval, 1.17–8.45; P = 0.02), respectively, compared with those identifying as White. These findings define unique VUS patterns in early-onset colorectal cancer by race and ethnicity, pointing to distinct germline variant spectra and to the potential for the discovery of novel ancestry-specific variants associated with early-onset colorectal cancer that will guide efforts to reduce clinical uncertainty and improve equitable care.
Significance:
Among individuals with early-onset colorectal cancer, germline VUS reclassification as well as rates of VUSs in cancer susceptibility genes differed by self-identified race/ethnicity. These findings point to the importance of VUS reclassification as this may alter clinical management and to distinct germline variant spectra among diverse patients with early-onset colorectal cancer.
Calvin and the Age of the Earth
Authors: Adhinarta Yuzo , Santoso Agus , Putrawan Bobby Kurnia
Published: February 2025

This article presents three assumptions that underlie the claim that Calvin would support or adhere to the young earth view if he were alive in the twentieth or twenty first century. The argument for the claim that Calvin provides support for the twentieth-century young earth view is untenable. Calvin does not make assertions that can be appealed to as substantial support for the young earth view. To support this position we present three counterarguments to the three underlying assumptions we briefly presented above, regarding Calvin’s own assertions concerning the six days of creation, his accommodation theory, and his commonality with his contemporaries. Although Calvin might have held the view of six literal days, as he was evidently opposing the instantaneous creation theory of his time, he does not provide as much support for the twentieth-century literal six days view as young earth creationists might expect. Attempting to align Calvin’s view of the creation days with the twentieth-century debate is not only unwarranted but also does not do justice to Calvin.
Developments in analytical techniques for mycotoxin determination: an update for 2023-24
Authors: Tittlemier S.A. , Cramer B. , DeRosa M.C. , Dzuman Z. , Kodikara C. , Malone R. , Maragos C. , Suman M. , Sumarah M.W.
Published: February 2025

This review summarises developments published in the period from mid-2023 to mid-2024 on the quantitative and qualitative determination of mycotoxins in a various matrices. Important developments in all aspects of mycotoxin analysis, from sampling and quality assurance/quality control of analytical results, to the various detection and quantitation technologies ranging from biosensors to comprehensive instrumental methods are presented and discussed. This non-exhaustive summary and associated discussion covers such technology as chromatography with targeted or non-targeted high resolution mass spectrometry, detection other than mass spectrometry such as fluorescence or diode array detection, biosensors, assays using alternatives to antibodies, as well as methods using predictive modelling and incorporating machine learning. This collaborative critical review intends to guide readers to relevant research by briefly presenting the most important developments in mycotoxin determination published in the past year. This review also relays limitations of the presented methodologies, in order to provide a thorough assessment of the analytical developments.
Nutrient-enriched live lobster cockroach, Nauphoeta cinerea, enhances growth and pigmentation of the pearl arowana, Scleropages jardini
Authors: Ng W.K. , Koay K.T. , Lee C.Y.
Published: February 2025

This is the first report on the use of live cockroaches as feed for farmed arowanas. Firstly, the nymphal development period, reproductive potential, longevity and nutrient profiles of the various development stages of the lobster cockroach, Nauphoeta cinerea, were determined. The fecundity of each female cockroach averaged 82.9 nymphs. An increase in body crude protein and lipid levels was observed as nymphs metamorphosised into later instars. The nutrient content of the adult stage was different from the nymphal stages with distinct differences evident between sexes. Secondly, in the feeding trial of pearl arowana, Scleropages jardini, three groups of live cockroaches were used; adult males with low lipid and high protein levels (3% and 30.1%, respectively; A-LLHP, control group), adult males with mid-level lipid and high protein levels (6.1% and 29.7%, respectively; A-MLHP) and late nymphs with high lipid and lower protein levels (10.3% and 22.9%, respectively; N-HLLP). Each group of cockroaches was fed to eight replicate individually-housed fish once daily for 12 weeks. A-LLHP and N-HLLP cockroaches were fed a commercial rat feed, whereas A-MLHP cockroaches were fed a specially formulated feed with added astaxanthin (80 mg/kg) to produce nutrient-enriched cockroaches. Arowana growth was highest in the N-HLLP-fed group followed by A-MLHP and A-LLHP (). The best feed utilization efficiency was observed in the N-HLLP group. Intraperitoneal fat and muscle lipid content was significantly higher in fish fed the nymphs than those fed adult cockroaches. Scales of arowana fed A-MLHP cockroaches showed the highest melanophore and xanthophore counts. Xanthophores were not present in the scales of the N-HLLP group. Late nymphal stages are optimal for growth enhancement and adult cockroaches for pigmentation of fish. This study showed that live cockroaches can be nutrient-enriched to enhance arowana growth and pigmentation.
Edible ants: exploring species and their utilisation
Authors: van Huis A.
Published: February 2025

Various ant species and their products serve as food sources across different regions of the world. Notable examples include Carebara spp. from Africa, Atta spp. and Liometopum sp. from Latin America, Formica rufa from Europe, and Oecophylla spp. from Asia. In addition to being consumed directly, ants are used as flavouring agents and incorporated into a variety of culinary recipes. Humans also harvest cereals and honey gathered by ants.
National breeding programs and variety release processes: A systematic review of how the interactions shape diversity and adoption of dryland legumes and cereals in Africa
Authors: Templer Noel , Gatwiri Judy , Nchanji Eileen , Gichuru Lilian , Puozaa Doris , Ojiewo Chris
Published: February 2025

Dryland legumes and cereals are a good food source in Africa's drylands. However, their production is constrained by the limited availability of improved varieties and sustainable seed supply channels. The efficiency of breeding institutions and variety registration and release processes influence crop development and availability of a wide range of varieties in the market. The entire process influences the adoption of improved varieties, crop diversity, and the overall resilience of agricultural systems. Therefore, this article investigates how national breeding programs interact with registration and release processes for varieties to improve agricultural systems’ resilience in Africa. This study adopted the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses to identify and examine previous research. A total of 63 articles were reviewed. The study found that breeding efforts have focused on staple crops, neglecting dryland legumes and cereals. Among the significant challenges highlighted are limited resources and a weak regulatory framework. Additionally, poor communication between breeders and farmers and a lack of reliable data intensifies the challenges. Despite different stakeholders being involved in seed development and dissemination, they have poor coordination, which delays the introduction of new varieties. Furthermore, variety registration and release processes remain critical barriers to crop development. Hence, to promote agricultural productivity, improve seed accessibility, and enhance agricultural resilience in Africa, it is essential to streamline early-generation seed production and variety registration processes. It is also critical to enhance collaboration among all stakeholders in the seed production system and strengthen regulatory frameworks.