bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Emerging technologies for mitigating air pollution in buildings: systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Osuizugbo Innocent Chigozie , Omer Mazen M. , Oshodi Olalekan Shamsideen , Yuan Hongping , Rahman Rahimi A. , Orekan Atinuke Adebimpe
Published: February 2025

Purpose

In the face of rising concerns over air pollution in buildings, this study undertakes a systematic review of emerging technologies for mitigating air pollution, with the goal of devising a comprehensive framework to address air pollution in buildings. It begins by highlighting the critical backdrop of deteriorating air quality across global cities, setting the stage for an urgent inquiry into viable solutions.

Design/methodology/approach

This study systematically reviews the literature on emerging technologies for mitigating air pollution in buildings. In total, 2,630 related articles were identified and analyzed using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) method.

Findings

The findings illuminate a promising landscape of technological advancements, demonstrating significant reductions in key pollutants, including particulate matter and greenhouse gases. Innovations in filtration systems, renewable energy adoption and smart buildings emerge as pivotal in driving down pollution levels. Furthermore, the study elucidates the synergistic potential of integrating these technologies with strategic policy initiatives and community engagement efforts, highlighting the multifaceted approach required to combat air pollution effectively.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is the first to systematically review prior literature on technologies for mitigating air pollution in buildings. The significance of this study extends beyond its theoretical contributions, offering practical insights and actionable strategies for industry professionals, policymakers and researchers. It underscores the critical intersection of technology and policy in paving the way for healthier built environments, providing a blueprint for future initiatives to achieve sustainable air quality improvements.
Beyond the plate: exploring next generation professionals’ views on cell-based meat
Authors: Dolfi Emanuele , Masi Margherita , Yeter Gizem , Marrocco Ernesto S. , Olivieri Giuseppina , Magnani Martina , Del Giudice Teresa , Adinolfi Felice , Vecchio Yari
Published: February 2025

Purpose

Cell-based meat is currently one of the most debated food sources of recent decades, as it involves cultivating animal-derived biological tissues in controlled environments. Opinions on this topic vary widely; some see this nutritional source as a strategy to address the sustainability challenges of the agri-food sector, while others perceive it as a potential negative impact on their culture and traditions. In this context, this study aimed to gather the opinions of Italian students engaged in animal production science studies to assess their viewpoints regarding socio-ethical, environmental, and economic dimensions since they represent the future generation of professionals and potential consumers.

Design/methodology/approach

In this study, the hybrid qualitative-quantitative method of Q-methodology was used. By leveraging the strengths of both qualitative and quantitative approaches, Q-methodology provides a systematic method for examining interviewees’ subjectivity by gathering individuals’ points of view into clusters of opinions referred to as factors.

Findings

The analysis of the results revealed the existence of four distinct factors within the analyzed student population, highlighting the different viewpoints among a group of individuals pursuing the same course of study.

Originality/value

The results may provide additional insights into the debate on this topic and offer valuable information for policymakers regarding the discussion on novel foods, particularly cell-based meat, which still lacks a regulatory framework at the European Union level.
Enhancing CSR effectiveness for sustainable livelihood: does employee support matter?
Authors: Mahato Jogeswar
Published: February 2025

Purpose

The study investigates the role of corporate social responsibility initiatives and employee support in promoting sustainable livelihood among indigenous communities in India.

Design/methodology/approach

The study has conducted personal interviews with 326 beneficiaries of Tata Steel Foundation, residing in East Singhbhum and Saraikela Kharswan districts in Jharkhand, India. Structural equation modelling is used to empirically examine the effect of CSR initiatives and employee support on sustainable livelihood development.

Findings

The findings underscore the importance of employee support in ensuring the effective execution of CSR projects and the promotion of sustainable livelihoods for its indigenous beneficiaries. CSR initiatives significantly contributed towards the achievement of sustainable livelihood, in which employee support acts as partial mediation.

Practical implications

Government agencies must collaborate with corporations to promote projects focusing on the sustainable livelihood of vulnerable communities. Livelihood-generating activities like entrepreneurship and self-employment must be encouraged to foster a sustainable and reliable structure of wealth creation, employment and survival.

Originality/value

This paper enriches existing literature on CSR communication by emphasising the importance of employee support in CSR projects towards organisational performance. The philosophy of external CSR communication and CSR theory has also been extended in addressing the issues of sustainability and equality in livelihood development.
“Through the looking glass: envisioning new library technologies” academic search using artificial intelligence tools
Authors: Williamson Jeanine Mary , Fernandez Peter
Published: February 2025

Purpose

This column seeks to interrogate the trend of artificial intelligence (AI)-powered search through the prism of academic search. By focusing on SciSpace, Semantic Scholar, Elicit, Google Scholar, Research Rabbit, PubMed and CAB Abstracts, and providing an analysis of the AI systems’ interfaces and outputs each, the authors aim to provide information professionals with a deeper understanding of the current landscape and help them navigate the complex world of AI-driven AI search.

Design/methodology/approach

A veterinary medicine topic was selected to test the success of AI tools in searching for academic sources. The authors searched for scholarly literature on the topic, colic AND horses AND microbiome in each of the AI tools (SciSpace, Semantic Scholar, Elicit, Research Rabbit and Google Scholar) and databases (PubMed and CAB Abstracts). For some of the AI tools the authors phrased the search in a question, “What is the relationship between colic and the microbiome in horses?” since they were designed to answer questions rather than execute Boolean searches. The authors downloaded about 100 records from each of the tools and exported them into the reference manager EndNote and then searched for duplicates among all the results, allowing us to calculate the number of references shared by each tool with at least one other tool versus the number of unique references.

Findings

The authors identified key differences and similarities between the various search tools.

Originality/value

This overview also demonstrates the variety of ways the same basic technological idea can be implemented. Understanding these specific tools will enable information professionals to use them more effectively, as well as see the larger trends that will continue to develop into the future.
Adapting to an increasingly stressful environment: Experimental evidence for ‘micro‐evolutionary priming’
Authors: Han Shuwen , Van den Brink Paul J. , Declerck Steven A. J.
Published: February 2025

In many natural systems, animal populations are exposed to increasing levels of stress. Stress levels tend to fluctuate, and long‐term increases in average stress levels are often accompanied by greater amplitudes of such fluctuations. Micro‐evolutionary adaptation may allow populations to cope with gradually increasing stress levels but may not prevent their extirpation during acute stress events unless adaptation to low stress levels also increases their tolerance to acute stress.

We tested this idea, here called ‘micro‐evolutionary priming’, by exposing populations of the monogonont rotifer species Brachionus calyciflorus to four levels of copper stress (control, low, intermediate and high) during a multigenerational selection experiment. Subsequently, in a common garden experiment, we exposed randomly selected subsets of genotypes (clones) of each of these populations to low, intermediate and high copper levels and assessed their population growth performance across multiple generations.

Compared to populations with an exposure history to copper, genotypes of control populations suffered strong growth reductions when exposed to intermediate and high levels of copper, mainly as a result of high mortality rates. Remarkably, when exposed to low copper levels, fitness differences between genotypes of control populations and populations adapted to these low levels were very small, whereas the latter strongly outperformed the former at intermediate and high copper levels.

These results highlight the potentially strong but hitherto largely ignored impact of micro‐evolutionary priming on the performance of populations in a changing environment. We discuss the potential consequences of micro‐evolutionary priming for the persistence of populations and the spatial eco‐evolutionary dynamics of metapopulations.
Short‐term ecological effects of solar energy development depend on plant community, soil type and disturbance intensity
Authors: Karban Claire C. , Munson Seth M. , Kobelt Lara A. , Lovich Jeffrey E.
Published: February 2025

Solar energy is rapidly growing to decarbonize the electrical grid. Maintaining ecosystem function with solar energy generation can be promoted through construction methods that minimize negative impacts on soils and vegetation. However, the disturbance created by less‐impactful construction methods at utility‐scale solar energy (USSE) facilities and the ecosystem responses remain relatively unknown.

We monitored soils and vegetation before and after the USSE build‐out to assess the short‐term impacts of construction on soils and vegetation at the Gemini Solar Project in the Mojave Desert. The facility was constructed with methods intended to be less impactful than traditional techniques. Our goal was to answer three questions: (1) What are the short‐term effects of construction on soils and vegetation? (2) Do construction effects vary by the initial plant community and soil type? and (3) Does disturbance intensity from construction affect soil and vegetation response?

We found strong evidence that the construction of the Gemini facility increased bare soil and soil compaction, and decreased dark biocrust cover and soil stability in the short term. For every 1% increase in disturbance intensity, we found a 0.23% increase in bare soil cover and a 0.10% decrease in dark biocrust cover. Plant responses varied more than soil responses and depended on the initial plant community and soil type, with decreases in plant canopy cover highest in sandy soils dominated by creosote bush (Larrea tridentata) and white bursage (Ambrosia dumosa) shrubs.

Synthesis and applications: Many impacts of USSE facility construction depend on the underlying vegetation and soils and the level of disturbance intensity. The use of less‐impactful construction methods, including a combination of overland travel and drive‐and‐crush examined in our study, can ameliorate negative effects relative to traditional construction practices and provide a pathway to maintain ecosystem function.
Retention forestry enhances the resilience of the moss Hylocomium splendens to extreme drought in boreal forests
Authors: Zhang Shengmin , Sjögren Jörgen , Hylander Kristoffer , Koelemeijer Irena A. , Jönsson Mari
Published: February 2025

Understorey biodiversity is increasingly impacted by extreme climate events. Retention forestry, which involves preserving small patches of live and dead trees from preharvest forests within clearcuts, can help mitigate these extremes by creating more favourable microclimates than traditional clearcutting practices. Despite their importance in buffering climate extremes, it remains unclear whether, and to what extent, the microclimates in retention patches enhance the growth response and recovery of the understorey after extreme droughts in boreal managed forests.

We retrospectively investigated the annual growth response from 2016 to 2022 of the mat‐forming understorey moss Hylocomium splendens, in relation to micro‐ and macroclimate, including an extreme drought in 2018, in retention patches relative to clearcuts and mature forests, across 130 plots distributed across 30 forest sites in a boreal landscape in Sweden.

The 2018 summer drought reduced the annual growth rates of H. splendens. Clearcuts experienced the greatest climatic impact from the 2018 drought and exhibited the lowest growth rates, followed by retention patches, while mature forests maintained the highest growth rates. This pattern persisted subsequent two post‐drought years. Closer alignment of below‐canopy temperature and vapour pressure deficits (VPDs) with those of mature forests enhanced moss growth in retention patches, bringing it closer to the levels observed in mature forests.

In clearcuts and mature forests, where variation in forest canopy and microclimate was minimal, biological legacies did not influence annual moss growth. In retention patches, however, a greater basal area of large living trees and the presence of standing deadwood contributed to higher canopy closure, which reduced microclimate VPDs and increased H. splendens growth. Increasing volumes of lying deadwood positively contributed to H. splendens growth, likely by creating favourable microhabitats and microclimates near the logs.

Synthesis and applications. This study demonstrates that drought reduced the growth of mat‐forming understorey H. splendens in boreal forest ecosystems, but drought effects in clearcuts are mitigated in retention patches. By preserving large living trees, standing and lying deadwood, retention patches can be further optimized. Foresters and policymakers can use these findings to minimize the impact of drought after clearcutting on understorey biodiversity and functionality.
Vertical Integration and Oncologists' Adoption of Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors in Non‐Small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Hu Xin , Jiang Changchuan , Yabroff K. Robin , Lipscomb Joseph , Graetz Ilana
Published: February 2025

Objective

To examine the trend in Immune Checkpoint Inhibitor (ICI) use before and after FDA approval in 2015 for patients with metastatic non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), and whether vertical integration of oncologists affected ICI use.

Study Setting and Design

We conducted a retrospective cohort study of patients with metastatic NSCLC from 21 population‐based cancer registries in the United States. We measured whether patients' treating oncologists were vertically integrated based on ≥ 10% of total services billed through hospital outpatient departments. We described the percentage of ICI recipients annually in 2010–2019, stratified by oncologists' integration status each year. In the post‐FDA approval period (2015–2019), we used difference‐in‐differences (DID) modeling to compare the probability of patients' receiving ICI before and after oncologists became integrated relative to those whose oncologists remained non‐integrated.

Data Sources and Analytic Sample

Using the SEER‐Medicare linkage, we identified Medicare Fee‐For‐Service beneficiaries aged ≥ 65.5 years diagnosed with metastatic NSCLC in 2010–2019 and followed them from diagnosis until ICI receipt, death, or end of 2019.

Principal Findings

The overall percentage of patients receiving ICI increased from 0% before 2015 to 4.0% in 2015, and further increased to 29.2% in 2019. The percent of ICI recipients was higher among integrated (6.9%) than non‐integrated oncologists (2.0%, p < 0.001) in 2015, but by 2017 adoption rates converged (19.8% vs. 19.8%, p = 0.91). DID analysis showed non‐significant changes in the probability of ICI use after oncologists became integrated (1.7 percentage points, 95% CI = −1.0 to 4.4) relative to oncologists who remained non‐integrated.

Conclusions

Integrated oncologists were quicker to adopt ICIs in the first year after FDA approval, but this lead was not sustained over time. Vertically integrating into health systems was not associated with significant changes in ICI use. Further research is needed on the factors influencing equitable dissemination of novel cancer therapies across practice settings.
Genomic, Transcriptomic and Suspect/Non‐Target Screening Analyses Reveal the Role of CYP450s in the Degradation of Imazalil and Delineate Its Transformation Pathway by Cladosporium herbarum
Authors: Papazlatani Christina V. , Vasileiadis Sotirios , Panagopoulou Eleni I. , Damalas Dimitrios E. , Karas Panagiotis A. , Gerovasileiou Evdoxia , Thomaidis Nikolaos S. , Karpouzas Dimitrios G.
Published: February 2025

Imazalil (IMZ), a major surface water contaminant characterised by high environmental recalcitrance and toxicity, is used in fruit‐packaging plants to control fungal infestations during storage. This leads to the production of wastewaters which should be treated on site before their environmental release. We previously isolated a Cladosporium herbarum strain, the first microorganism that could degrade IMZ. Here we describe the genetic network utilised by the fungus to degrade IMZ and its detailed transformation. Genomic and transcriptomic analysis of C. herbarum pointed to the involvement of strongly upregulated CYP450s in IMZ degradation, as further verified by cessation of its biodegradation by CYP450 inhibitors. LC‐QTOF‐HRMS analysis and suspect/non‐target screening identified nine transformation products (TPs) of IMZ. IMZ biotransformation mainly proceeded through O‐dealkylation, while other less important paths, most probably controlled by upregulated oxidases, were operative involving successive hydroxylation reactions. These lead to the formation of TPs like IMZ_313 and IMZ_331, with the former being further transformed through imidazole ring scission to IMZ_288, a TP reported for the first time. We provide first evidence for the transformation mechanism of IMZ by C. herbarum and the potential genes/enzymes involved, paving the way for the use of C. herbarum in the biodepuration of agro‐industrial effluents.
Does insect trapping truly measure insect populations?
Authors: Rossini Luca , Contarini Mario , Delfino Ines , Speranza Stefano
Published: February 2025

The measurement process has a well‐known structure and requires tools with proper characteristics, depending on the physical quantities and their magnitude.

While most fields of research have reliable tools to support the experiments, this is not properly the case for measurements in the population dynamics of insects and animals, more in general.

Monitoring insect species is a common practice in agriculture and forest environments, above all to develop pest control or biodiversity conservation strategies and to validate or feed decision support system tools.

Besides the development of several monitoring techniques, an explicit connection between entomology and metrology (the science of measurements) is still missing.

We may ask if the current tools involved in monitoring insect populations, as traps for instance, respect the standard features that measurement tools should have, and if they provide ‘proper measurements’ or just an ‘estimation’.

This work analyses the pros and cons of insect trapping by connecting metrology and entomology and provides some perspectives on which the research communities should focus and interact to answer the questions still open.
Poor Association Between Clinical Characteristics and Seropositivity in Children With Suspected Long COVID—A Single‐Centre Study
Authors: Olsson‐Åkefeldt S. , Luthander J. , Anmyr L. , Villard L. , Arnason S. , Kemani M. K. , Wållgren E. , Röstlund S. , Tingborn M. , Pettersson M. , George E. , Ryd‐Rinder M. , Hertting O.
Published: February 2025

Aim

We aimed to compare characteristics and clinical presentation of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) antibody positive or negative children attending a specialist outpatient clinic for suspected paediatric long COVID.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study was conducted of 113 children and adolescents enrolled between 1 December 2020 to 14 September 2021 in a multidisciplinary programme. Clinical and epidemiological data were collected with standardised interviews and laboratory tests including SARS‐CoV‐2 spike antibody measurement.

Results

A serological link to SARS‐CoV‐2 infection was found in 52%. Most patients (94.7%) reported several symptoms. Fatigue, post‐exertional malaise, dizziness, nausea, headache, and concentration difficulties were the most common. Seronegative children had a higher number of individual symptoms. School absence and drop‐out from leisure activities was substantial in both groups with higher numbers for the seronegative group. Self‐reported health was low in both groups.

Conclusion

Children attending a specialist paediatric long COVID clinic experienced multiple symptoms and poor self‐reported health. The symptomatology was similar regardless of serological status, implying multifactorial causes. A multidisciplinary assessment of this cohort was essential considering the broad spectrum of symptoms displayed and their substantial impact on everyday functioning.
Comparing the effectiveness of animated videos and talking‐head videos in science communication
Authors: Marx Clara L. , König Laura M.
Published: February 2025

Objectives

Online videos are becoming increasingly popular for obtaining nutrition‐related information. Learning theories suggest that videos may differ in their effectiveness of conveying knowledge depending on the correspondence between audio and visual content. We thus tested whether two popular video formats, i.e. talking‐head and animated videos, differed regarding knowledge transfer effectiveness and their ability to stimulate content sharing.

Design

2 video format x 3 topic between‐subjects experiment.

Methods

A total of 358 participants who were representative for the German population regarding age, gender and level of education were randomly assigned to viewing one video format about one of three nutrition‐related topics. Afterwards, they rated the video, indicated willingness to share the information with others and answered a set of quiz questions about all three topics to assess knowledge.

Results

Videos did not differ in their evaluation (F[1, 352] = 0.16, p = .898), knowledge transfer (F[2, 352] = 0.10, p = .749) or content sharing (F[1, 352] = 0.12, p = .727). However, participants received a better knowledge score for the video topic they watched a video about than for the other two topics (F[4, 704] = 50.00, p < .001, partial η2 = .22).

Conclusions

Therefore, both formats can be considered equally effective for use in science communication.
Association of Left Ventricular Function With Cerebral Small Vessel Disease in a Community‐Based Population
Authors: Yang Yingying , Cai Xueli , Zhou Mengyuan , Chen Yiyi , Pi Jingtao , Zhao Mengxi , Shi Yulu , Jing Jing , Chen Weiqi , Yan Hongyi , Meng Xia , Wang Yongjun , Pan Yuesong , Wang Yilong
Published: February 2025

Background and Objectives

The relationship of cardiac function with cerebral small vessel disease (CSVD) remains unknown. The study aimed to investigate the association between left ventricular (LV) function and CSVD in a community‐based population.

Methods

Community‐dwelling residents in China from the cross sectional survey of the PRECISE (PolyvasculaR Evaluation for Cognitive Impairment and vaScular Events) cohort were included. LV ejection fraction (LVEF) and LV fractional shortening (LVFS) were measured for LV systolic function, and mitral E/A ratio (the ratio of the peak trans‐mitral filling velocity during early diastole and late diastole) was evaluated for LV diastolic function by transthoracic echocardiogram (TTE). Total CSVD score and CSVD imaging makers including white matter hyperintensity (WMH), lacunes, cerebral microbleeds (CMB), and enlarged perivascular spaces (EPVS) were assessed. The associations of cardiac function with CSVD were analyzed using ordinal or binary logistic regression models. Restricted cubic spline models fitted for logistic regression models were used.

Results

A total of 3063 participants with available TTE and brain MRI data were included in the study. In the multivariable logistic regression analysis, LVEF and LVFS were not associated with total CSVD score or markers of CSVD. E/A ratio showed a negative correlation with total CSVD score (cOR, 0.89, 95% CI: 0.80–0.98, p = 0.01). Participants with E/A ≤ 0.8 or ≥ 2 had a higher total CSVD score than those with 0.8 < E/A < 2 (cOR 1.20, 95% CI: 1.00–1.43, p = 0.046). E/A ratio was also correlated with lacunes, moderate to severe EPVS, and periventricular WMH. Logistic regression analyses with restricted cubic spline further demonstrated that a lower E/A ratio were associated with a higher total CSVD score.

Conclusion

Our study showed that mitral E/A ratio was associated with nonhemorrhagic CSVD. LV diastolic dysfunction assessed by TTE provides clues for the early warning of high CSVD burden.
Organoid Models to Study Human Infectious Diseases
Authors: Zhu Sijing , Chen Dan , Yang Xinzhi , Yang Liuliu , Han Yuling
Published: February 2025

Infectious diseases have become significant events that threaten global public health and economic development. Since the 20th century, multiple outbreaks of infectious diseases have gradually deepened humanity's understanding of viral infections, prevention and treatment. Organoids possess a high degree of similarity to human physiological states and have strong self‐organising capabilities. Research on infectious diseases based on organoids offers significant advantages in terms of availability, editability and diversity. In this perspective, we briefly introduce the development of organoids, focusing on historically significant infectious diseases that have caused fatal harm to human health, such as HIV, ZIKV, SARS‐CoV‐2 and MPXV. We further summarise relevant research on the pathogenic mechanisms of these viruses based on organoid models, host reactivity, and therapeutic strategies. Finally, we list the latest research techniques combined with organoid models, discuss the challenges faced in the development of organoids and look forward to the future prospects of organoids in vaccine and drug development.
Geographic distribution and supply chain of vultures in Benin, West Africa
Authors: Dognimon Samson , Zanvo Stanislas , Djagoun Chabi A. M. S. , Sinsin Brice
Published: February 2025

Illegal trade poses a significant threat to African vultures, particularly in Benin, which stands as the second major hotspot for vultures' trade in West Africa. To address gaps in research on distribution, supplying habitat sources and trade dynamics, we conducted semi‐structured interviews with 150 sellers in traditional medicine markets (TMM) and surveyed 590 local residents in villages surrounding five protected areas. We used a chord diagram to visually represent the frequency of reports of countries involved in the trade, and mapped local ecological knowledge (LEK)‐based geographic distribution of vultures across Benin. Our findings revealed that seven West African countries, as well as Cameroon from Central Africa supplied vulture specimens to TMM. We recorded 491 vultures specimens from various species such as Hooded, white‐headed, white‐backed, Rüppell's, Egyptian, and lappet‐faced vulture. Among the six vulture species recorded in TMM, five were still found in Benin, primarily in the north of the country. Our study provides insights into the supply chain and LEK‐based geographic distribution of vultures in Benin. It highlights the pressing need for further research using conventional methods to study the diversity and distribution of vultures in Benin, as well as concerted and coordinated conservation interventions to support vulture populations in the region.
Novel metabolic and inflammatory stratification of overweight/obesity to characterize risks of adverse outcomes: A large population‐based cohort study
Authors: Dong Hang , Shi Yingzhou , Ma Yicheng , Cheng Yiping , Liu Luna , Xiao Shengyang , Yuan Zinuo , Wang Zhen , Li Tuo , Zhao Jiajun , Fan Xiude
Published: February 2025

Aims

The growing epidemic of overweight and obesity elevates disease risks, with metabolic disorders and inflammation critically involved in the pathogenic mechanisms. This study refines the subtyping of overweight and obesity using metabolic and inflammatory markers to enhance risk assessment and personalized prevention.

Materials and Methods

Based on the UK Biobank, this retrospective study included participants classified as overweight or obese (BMI ≥25 kg/m2). K‐means clustering was performed using metabolic and inflammatory biomarkers. Multivariate Cox regression analysis assessed the risk of complications and mortality over a follow‐up period of 13.5 years. Genome‐Wide Association Studies (GWAS) and Phenome‐Wide Association Studies (PheWAS) explored cluster‐specific genetic traits.

Results

Among 126 145 participants (mean [IQR] age: 55.0 [14.0] years; 61 983 males [49.1%]), five clusters were identified: (1) Low Metabolic Risk‐related, (2) Hypertension‐Related, (3) Mixed Hyperlipidemia‐Related, (4) Elevated Lipoprotein(a)‐Related and (5) High BMI and Inflammation‐Related. Cluster 1 exhibited a lower risk of complications than other clusters. Cluster 2 had the highest incidence of stroke, linked to variants affecting blood circulation. Cluster 3 showed the highest risks for ischaemic heart disease, characterized by variants enriched in cholesterol metabolism pathways. Cluster 4 was associated with high cardiovascular risks. Cluster 5 had the highest risks for diabetes, asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, osteoarthritis and mortality, linked to obesity‐related genetic variants. We also proposed a method for applying this classification in clinical settings.

Conclusions

This classification provides insights into the heterogeneity of individuals with overweight and obesity, aiding in the identification of high‐risk patients who may benefit from targeted interventions.
Association of body roundness index with cardiovascular disease and all‐cause mortality among Chinese adults
Authors: Lin Hong , Jia Xiaojing , Yin Yue , Li Mian , Zheng Ruizhi , Xu Yu , Wang Shuangyuan , Xu Min , Wang Tiange , Zhao Zhiyun , Zheng Jie , Shen Feixia , Gu Xuejiang , Mu Yiming , Chen Lulu , Zeng Tianshu , Shi Lixin , Su Qing , Chen Yuhong , Yu Xuefeng , Yan Li , Qin Guijun , Wan Qin , Chen Gang , Tang Xulei , Gao Zhengnan , Hu Ruying , Luo Zuojie , Qin Yingfen , Chen Li , Hou Xinguo , Huo Yanan , Li Qiang , Wang Guixia , Zhang Yinfei , Liu Chao , Wang Youmin , Wu Shengli , Yang Tao , Deng Huacong , Zhao Jiajun , Ning Guang , Bi Yufang , Wang Weiqing , Lu Jieli
Published: February 2025

Aims

To determine the impact of body roundness index (BRI) on the 10‐year risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and all‐cause mortality in Chinese adults.

Materials and Methods

We utilized data from a nationwide prospective cohort of 165 785 Chinese adults (aged ≥40 years, free of CVD and cancer at baseline), which was extracted from the China Cardiometabolic Disease and Cancer Cohort (4C). Cox regression and restricted cubic splines quantified BRI‐outcome associations and identified optimal BRI cutoffs.

Results

During a median follow‐up of 10.1 years, we documented 10 538 CVD events and 8679 deaths. A monotonic increasing dose–response association was observed between BRI and CVD risk, while BRI and all‐cause mortality exhibited a U‐shaped relationship (p for non‐linear <0.001), with the nadir at a BRI of 3.9. Gender differences indicated that increased CVD risk was associated with higher BRI in men. As age increases, the excess risk of CVD and mortality associated with BRI diminishes, with a significant harmful effect of low BRI observed on mortality in individuals aged ≥75 years. Moreover, the inclusion of BRI in the model significantly enhanced the C‐statistic for CVD prediction by 0.00412 (p <0.001) and for mortality prediction by 0.00045 (p = 0.0097).

Conclusions

Our findings indicate a positive association between BRI and CVD and a U‐shaped association between BRI and mortality. These findings underscore the importance of the BRI in assessing the risk of CVD and all‐cause mortality, particularly when considering different genders and age groups.
A Typology of Empathic Communication Strategies in Dental Visits
Authors: Young Lance Brendan , Johnsen David C.
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Dentists' empathy for patients is associated with enhanced patient satisfaction and clinical outcomes, and with reduced patient anxiety and dentist burnout. Cognitive empathy has been distinguished from emotional empathy, but how these broad types are expressed within the dentist‐patient relationship has not been explored. The purpose of this study is to further differentiate types of empathy expressions in routine dental visits.

Materials and Methods

Third‐year students (n = 80) treated standardised patients (n = 11) portraying one of two patient profiles, each of which had multiple treatment needs in addition to a major systemic health problem: cancer or rheumatoid arthritis. After each visit, the patients completed assessment rubrics which included opportunities to comment on performance on four skillsets: visit initiation, patient interviewing, treatment planning and global communication. These comments were qualitatively content analysed. Comments (n = 301) were first deductively coded for valence (positive vs. negative evaluation) and empathy type (cognitive vs. emotional). Subsequently, comments were inductively coded for subtypes.

Results

Three subtypes of cognitive empathy were identified in patient comments: facilitating comprehension, resolving treatment barriers and relieving physical discomfort. Five types of emotional empathy were identified: comforting emotionally, validating, sympathising, encouraging and inspiring confidence. Unexpectedly, four subtypes emerged which could not definitively be classified as exclusively cognitive or emotional, so a hybrid type was identified for these subtypes: respecting, moderating, attending and destigmatizing.

Conclusion

Patients distinguish subtypes of cognitive and emotional empathy, but some hybrid expressions are powerful because they simultaneously convey both types of empathy.
Cerebral Lateralization During Handwritten and Typed Word Generation: A Functional Transcranial Doppler Ultrasound Study in Left‐Handers and Right‐Handers
Authors: Samsouris Christos , Papadopoulou Konstantina A. , Badcock Nicholas A. , Vlachos Filippos , Phylactou Phivos , Papadatou‐Pastou Marietta
Published: February 2025

Cerebral lateralization of written language, much like oral language, is predominantly left lateralized. However, handwriting has been the primary focus in lateralization studies. The cerebral lateralization of typing—a widely used method of writing—remains unexamined. This preregistered study aimed to explore the cerebral lateralization of typing versus handwriting and to investigate possible handedness‐related differences. We hypothesized that (i) cerebral lateralization would not differ between the two writing methods after movement correction and (ii) both handwriting and typing would show weaker lateralization in left‐handers compared to right‐handers. To investigate this, we used functional transcranial Doppler (fTCD) ultrasound, a reliable method for assessing cerebral lateralization during language tasks that remains unaffected by movement artifacts, such as those generated by handwriting and typing. A total of 24 left‐handers and 30 right‐handers participated, performing written word generation through both handwriting and typing on a computer keyboard while undergoing fTCD assessment. We applied a Bayesian framework for our analysis, as it enables us to demonstrate the absence of a difference (i.e., no difference between two variables), which is not possible with the use of p values (estimated under the frequentist framework). Our results provided evidence supporting the absence of a difference in cerebral lateralization between handwriting and typing after movement correction. However, we found no conclusive evidence to either support or refute a difference in lateralization between left‐handers and right‐handers, suggesting that more research is needed to clarify the role of handedness in cerebral lateralization for different writing methods.
Global Variation in Zooplankton Niche Divergence Across Ocean Basins
Authors: McGinty Niall , Irwin Andrew
Published: February 2025

Modelling responses to climate change assumes zooplankton populations remain similar over time with little adaptation (niche conservatism). Oceanic barriers, genetic, phenotypic variation and species interactions in cosmopolitan species could drive niche divergence within species. We assess niche divergence among 223 globally distributed species across the seven main ocean basins. There were 357 diverged niches out of 828 ocean basin comparisons. The proportion of diverged niches varied both across and within phyla. Copepoda (156 of 223 species) were used to test for niche divergence between same‐species populations across different environmental gradients. Global niche divergence was found to be more likely for species in colder temperatures and nearshore environments. Opposing temperature responses were found for four comparisons, which may relate to the different connectivity patterns between them. This study demonstrates adaptive potential across environmental‐niche gradients, which must be considered when modelling population responses to climate change.
Pilot CEOs and Corporate Cash Holdings
Authors: Chen Lili , Li Lingwei , Wee Marvin
Published: February 2025

This study examines the effect of a personality trait exhibited by pilot chief executive officers (CEOs), that is, situation awareness, on corporate cash policies. Our results show that firms led by pilot CEOs are more likely to hold higher levels of cash for firms with higher growth opportunities and greater firm risks. The findings suggest that pilot CEOs have greater situation awareness and are more likely to plan ahead to cope with future liquidity needs. We also find that the strength of their situation awareness is associated with pilot certification levels but does not change between the pre‐ and post‐certification periods.
Rationales of Cold Plasma Jet Therapy in Skin Cancer
Authors: Bekeschus Sander , Singer Debora , Ratnayake Gishan , Ruhnau Klaus , Ostrikov Kostya , Thompson Erik W.
Published: February 2025

Skin cancer affects millions of patients worldwide, and its incidence is increasing. Current therapies targeting skin tumour subtypes, such as basal cell carcinoma, cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma, melanoma and actinic keratosis, vary in their degree of effectiveness and tolerability, motivating new research avenues on complementing treatment strategies. Cold medical gas plasma is a partially ionised gas operated at about body temperature and generates various reactive oxygen and nitrogen species simultaneously. A range of medical gas plasma devices has proven safe in thousands of patients and is an approved medical product for dermatology conditions, such as nonhealing wounds, in Europe and, more broadly, for clinical trials. Extending potential gas plasma applications in the field of dermato‐oncology is therefore plausible, especially in light of the strong preclinical evidence and early clinical data. This review summarises existing work on gas plasma treatment, focusing on approved jet plasmas in skin cancer and outlining central mechanisms and treatment concepts. It also provides a concrete perspective on integrating medical gas plasma treatment into existing skin cancer therapy schemes, encouraging translational scientists and clinicians to enable gas plasma‐assisted cancer care through clinical research.
Secondary Dispersal of Wetland Plants by Neotropical Otters
Authors: Hoffmann Pedro , Adolfo Andressa , Green Andy J. , Maltchik Leonardo
Published: February 2025

Carnivorous mammals can disperse seeds and other plant propagules through gut passage (endozoochory). Otters are semiaquatic mustelids and opportunistic carnivores that prey on various vertebrates, and their feeding habits can lead to secondary dispersal of plant propagules. However, this secondary dispersal by otters has not previously been investigated. Here, we investigated the internal dispersal of plants by neotropical otters,
Lontra longicaudis
, in southern Brazil.

We collected 31 faecal samples (spraints) from neotropical otters at a Brazilian Ramsar site of the Pampa biome during the wet season of 2022. Intact propagules were separated from each spraint, identified, and their germinability tested where possible. The classes of vertebrate preyed upon in each spraint were identified. We investigated the effects of these prey classes and of spraint mass on the taxonomic richness and abundance of propagules of plants associated with aquatic and/or terrestrial substrates.

We recorded 1206 propagules belonging to 33 plant taxa (one charophyte, four pteridophytes, and 28 angiosperms), representing 18 plant families and including 20 strictly aquatic macrophytes. Seeds from six angiosperm taxa were germinated, with a low overall germination rate of 2%. All spraints contained fish, while 10 also contained remains of reptiles, amphibians, and/or mammals. The taxonomic richness of propagules was positively correlated with spraint weight. Propagule abundance depended on both spraint weight and the diversity of prey classes in the spraint. Spraints with three or four prey classes were larger and had the most propagules.

Most propagules are likely dispersed by “diploendozoochory” involving ingestion first by prey and then by the otters. Neotropical otters have a wide home range, often travelling several kilometres daily, which can promote plant dispersal by carrying propagules between different habitats.

Synthesis: Our results suggest that otters might play an important role in the dispersal of wetland plants, notably aquatic ferns, potentially contributing to the maintenance of these ecosystems. The germination rate, although low, represents opportunities for the successful establishment of some dispersed propagules over longer distances than those provided by otter prey, emphasising the ecological importance of even low‐probability dispersal events. This study underlines the potential role of carnivorous mammals in maintaining ecosystem connectivity.
Recent prevalence and trends of obesity and metabolic dysfunction‐associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) among US adolescents: 1999 to 2020
Authors: Sun Michael , Sun Hongbing
Published: February 2025

Background

Metabolic dysfunction‐associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), previously known as non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), is understudied among US adolescents despite rising obesity rates.

Methods

This study analysed the prevalence and trends of obesity and MASLD among US adolescents aged 12–17 using data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). We developed a new screening model utilizing FibroScan‐measured controlled attenuation parameter (CAP) scores, body measurements and blood chemistry data from 2017 to 2020 to assist in analysing MASLD trends from 1999 to 2020.

Results

Between 2017 and 2020, the prevalence of obesity and MASLD was approximately 20%, with about 70% of obese adolescents affected by MASLD. The condition was more common in boys, particularly among Mexican American adolescents. Additionally, 97.2% of those with NAFLD also had MASLD. Adolescents with MASLD had significantly higher body weight, waist circumference, triglyceride levels and alanine transaminase (ALT) levels, along with lower high‐density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol and an increased risk of liver fibrosis. Insufficient physical activity and poor diet quality were key risk factors for developing MASLD. From 1999 to 2020, the prevalence of MASLD rose significantly, paralleling the increasing rates of obesity.

Conclusions

The study underscores the pressing need to screen at‐risk adolescents for metabolic issues associated with steatotic liver diseases, given the rising obesity rates among adolescents. The high overlap between MASLD and NAFLD diagnoses indicates that the transition from NAFLD to MASLD can be effectively integrated into paediatric practice.
Molecular Analysis of Human Respiratory Syncytial Virus Group B Strains Isolated in Kenya Before and During the Emergence of Pandemic Influenza A/H1N1
Authors: Wangui Julia , Gachara George , Mobegi Victor , Agoti Charles , Otieno James , Opanda Silvanos , Opot Benjamin , Ngeranwa Joseph N. , Njeru Regina , Bulimo Wallace
Published: February 2025

Background

We conducted a retrospective study to explore molecular insights into human respiratory syncytial virus (HRSV) group B strains among patients attending outpatient clinics at government medical facilities both prior and during the onset of Influenza A/H1N1/2009 pandemic outbreak.

Methods

We screened 2300 nasopharyngeal swabs using multiplex real time reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction. We amplified a segment of the first and second hypervariable regions, as well as the conserved portion of the third domain of the G‐gene using HRSV‐B specific primers, sequenced by Sanger di‐deoxy chain termination method and thereafter analyzed the sequences.

Results

We characterized the circulating strains into three known genotypes: SAB4 (1.4%), BA7 (1.4%), and multiple variants of BA9 (97.2%). The majority of BA9 viruses were uniquely Kenyan with only 4% aligning with BA9 lineages found elsewhere. The mean evolutionary rate of the HRSV‐B was estimated to be 3.08 × 10−3 substitutions per site per year.

Conclusion

Our findings indicate that the circulating HRSV‐B viruses in Kenya underwent a slower evolution during the period of 2007–2010. Additionally, our findings reveal the existence of a unique lineage as well as new variants that have not been reported elsewhere to date.
Caring for Patients Experiencing Itching After Burns: Phenemonological Analysis of Nurses' Views
Authors: Azizoğlu Hatice
Published: February 2025

Post‐burn itching is an important problem that disturbs patients during the treatment and rehabilitation process of burns. This study aims to reflect the clinical views of nurses caring for patients with post‐burn itching and to contribute to the healing process and treatment process by contributing to the care process of patients with post‐burn itching. This study was conducted with 10 nurses working in the burn unit using a phenomenological design, one of the qualitative research types. The data were collected face‐to‐face between August and October 2023 using individual in‐depth interviews. The data were analysed by the researchers using thematic analysis. Six main themes and 23 sub‐themes were identified in the study. Main themes: types of burns with itching, anatomical regions, itching process, problems experienced in care, methods used to relieve itching, and suggestions for dealing with itching. The results of this study reveal the views of nurses on the management of itching after burns. The findings will contribute to the development of more effective care strategies and increase patient satisfaction by increasing the knowledge and awareness of nurses in the clinic regarding itch management.