bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Stress exposure in the mdx mouse model of Duchenne muscular dystrophy provokes a widespread metabolic response
Authors: Johnson Erynn E. , Ervasti James M.
Published: February 2025

Duchenne muscular dystrophy is a severe neuromuscular wasting disease that is caused by a primary defect in dystrophin protein and involves organism‐wide comorbidities such as cardiomyopathy, metabolic and mitochondrial dysfunction, and nonprogressive cognitive impairments. Physiological stress exposure in the mdx mouse model of Duchenne muscular dystrophy results in phenotypic abnormalities that include locomotor inactivity, hypotension, and increased morbidity. Severe and lethal stress susceptibility in mdx mice corresponds to metabolic dysfunction in several coordinated metabolic pathways within dystrophin‐deficient skeletal muscle, as well as prolonged elevation in mdx plasma corticosterone levels that extends beyond the wild‐type (WT) stress response. Here, we performed a targeted mass spectrometry‐based plasma metabolomics screen focused on biological stress pathways in healthy and dystrophin‐deficient mdx mice exposed to mild scruff stress. One‐third of the stress‐relevant metabolites interrogated displayed significant elevation or depletion in mdx plasma after scruff stress and were restored to WT levels by skeletal muscle‐specific dystrophin expression. The metabolic pathways of mdx mice altered by scruff stress are associated with regulation of the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis, locomotor tone, neurocognitive function, redox metabolism, cellular bioenergetics, and protein catabolism. Our data suggest that a mild stress triggers an exaggerated, multi‐system metabolic response in mdx mice.
Phytoplankton Community Stability Across Eutrophic Gradients: Insights From Annual and Monthly Timescales
Authors: Liya Wang , Zhen Yang , Limei Shi , Yang Yu , Xiaoli Shi , Min Zhang
Published: February 2025

Exploring the response of natural community stability to anthropogenic environmental changes, such as eutrophication, is an important topic in current ecological research. Eutrophication directly affects species dynamics, abundance and succession in phytoplankton communities, potentially leading to shifts in ecological processes in these communities over multiple years. However, it remains unclear how the annual and monthly dynamics of phytoplankton communities shift along eutrophication gradients to maintain stability.

We conducted an 8‐year survey in a large shallow lake, where the entire area exhibited a gradient of eutrophication. Using this dataset, we analysed three dynamic characteristics of phytoplankton communities: biomass stability (BS), composition stability (CS) and species rank‐abundance curve change (Curve_change). These variables were analysed at annual (from 2014 to 2021, with annual data collected at each sampling site) and monthly (extending to 96 months within the same period, with monthly data) scales to examine how they changed in response to the eutrophication gradient.

Annual and monthly BS was only slightly affected by the eutrophication gradient, whereas monthly composition stability and changes in species rank‐abundance curves were significantly altered. BS correlated positively with CS but negatively with changes in the species rank‐abundance curve.

This indicates that phytoplankton can maintain BS through specific adjustments in community structure over shorter timescales, with distinct mechanisms operating across the eutrophication gradient. At high nutrient concentrations, this stability is associated with shifts in the relative abundance of non‐dominant species, which buffer fluctuations in dominant species abundances and ensure functional redundancy. In contrast, at relatively low‐nutrient concentrations, BS is achieved through compensatory dynamics among dominant species, where declines in one species are offset by increases in another with similar ecological functions. However, this internal regulatory mechanism is less evident over longer timescales.

These findings highlight the importance of timescales in studying the impact of eutrophication on phytoplankton community stability, providing important clues for assessing and predicting the response of lake ecosystems to future environmental changes.
Drought‐Induced Decreases in Abundance of Emergent Midge Subsidies Are Offset by Increased Body Size in a Prairie Stream
Authors: Siders Adam C. , Hopper Garrett W. , Whiles Matt R. , Reisinger Alexander J. , Gido Keith B.
Published: February 2025

Emerging aquatic insects can be an important resource subsidy for a variety of terrestrial consumers, including spiders, birds, bats and lizards. Emergence flux is influenced by a variety of abiotic and biotic variables, such as temperature, drying, and predators and these variables can also control the body size of emergent insects. Despite their importance, these variables can change rapidly during drought conditions as water temperatures rise, surface area decreases and predator densities increase.

During 2018, the Konza Prairie Biological Station experienced a record drought: flow ceased in the lower reaches of Kings Creek for the first time in over 40 years of observation, leaving a series of isolated pools. We studied how the drought affected aquatic insect emergence in 12 of these pools via elevated temperatures, decreased surface area, and concentration of predators (e.g. fishes and crayfish) over a four‐week period. We returned in 2020 and sampled emergence in the same pools over 2 weeks under non‐drought conditions to compare emergence between drought and non‐drought conditions.

We found three overall patterns: (1) rates of areal emergence abundance and biomass (number or mg DM m−2 d−1) did not differ between drought and non‐drought conditions. In contrast, pool‐scale emergence abundance, but not biomass (number or mg DM pool−1 d−1), was lower during drought conditions; (2) average midge body size was larger during the drought relative to the non‐drought conditions; (3) environmental variables (e.g. temperature, pool surface area, predator biomass) were not predictive of emergence during drought and non‐drought conditions.

Fewer, but larger emergent midges (as seen under drought conditions) may represent a higher quality resource for terrestrial consumers than many smaller midges due to increased per‐capita energy yield. However, due to the overall decrease in water availability throughout the stream network, the overall emergence flux was concentrated in reaches with remaining water during the drought, making pools emergence subsidy hotspots. Overall, these contrasting responses underscore the complex nature of community responses to shifting climatic conditions.
Effects of Wildfire on Interactions Among Nematode Parasites, Mayfly Hosts and Trout Predators
Authors: Svatos Emma C. , Carvallo Fernando R. , ter Kuile‐Miller Mia K. , Gray Julia L. , Trujillo Jordan L. , Weinstein Sara B. , Fairchild Matthew P. , Kanno Yoichiro , Preston Daniel L.
Published: February 2025

Wildfire activity is increasing globally, highlighting the need to understand how fire disturbance affects species interactions. In particular, few studies have examined how fire influences interactions among parasites, hosts and predators in freshwater streams.

We characterised host–parasite and parasite–predator interactions involving nematode parasites (Family Mermithidae), mayfly hosts (Order Ephemeroptera) and trout predators (Salvelinus fontinalis, Salmo trutta and Oncorhynchus clarkii) at 8 burned and 8 unburned stream sites in the southern Rocky Mountains for 2 years following severe wildfires.

Mayfly density, infection probability, and density of infected mayflies (infected mayflies/m2) were all lower at burned sites 1 year after fire but returned to levels similar to unburned sites after 2 years. Density of infected mayflies increased with overall mayfly density; however, infection prevalence (%) ranged from 0% to 26% across burned and unburned streams, and there was no relationship between mayfly density and infection prevalence.

Based on dissections of > 20,000 mayflies, intermediate‐size (4–6 mm) mayflies in the family Baetidae had the highest infection probability and were also the most common mayfly family and size class found in trout stomachs. Wildfire did not affect the number of mermithids consumed per trout, and infection prevalences of mayflies consumed by trout were significantly lower than in the benthos, suggesting predator‐avoidance behaviour by infected mayflies.

Overall, our results suggest that mermithid nematode responses to fire reflected changes in host density, consistent with the single‐host life cycle of mermithids. These results help integrate host–parasite–predator interactions into our understanding of disturbance ecology in freshwater streams, with implications for parasite roles in energy flow through food webs.
Sound Art Geographies: Listening at the Limits of Audibility
Authors: Burdon George
Published: February 2025

This paper explores the generative yet underexamined relation between human geography and sound art. Sound art has long been concerned with issues of spatiality, place and environment and yet interest in sound art from human geographers has been somewhat sparse, particularly when compared to the wealth of literature on visual art in the discipline. In this context, the paper does three things. First, it reviews debates in sound art theory to highlight how sound art is often discussed as performing critical interventions in perceptions of space. Second, it examines how such interventions have been engaged by human geographers in the limited body of literature currently existing on sound art in the discipline, which suggests that sound art can reveal some of the unheard histories, experiences and voices of spaces. Finally, it suggests that geographic engagements with sound art might productively explore the contention, legible in recent work in sound studies and philosophy, that sound art can create spaces of affect in which an audience is exposed to the limits of prevailing schemas of audibility. Rather than producing a better or more accurate representation of space, the paper argues that sound art instead can provoke affective encounters with alternative temporalities, silences and non‐human life.
Gendered Inequalities: A Comparative Analysis of Gendered Experiences of Inequality in Technology in Egypt and the United Kingdom
Authors: Maatwk Fatima
Published: February 2025

Inequality experiences are strongly gendered and context‐specific. Drawing on semi‐structured in‐depth interviews with technology industry employees in Egypt and the United Kingdom, this article explores intersectionality and the contextuality of gendered inequalities. It investigates how context shapes gendered experiences of inequality and how this plays out at the workplace. The paper offers a cross‐cultural comparison which shows that the experiences of women in tech reflect the cultural construction of gender roles and the sectoral dynamics. By contrasting the Middle Eastern context of Egypt and the Western context of the United Kingdom, the article unpacks the complicated influence of cultural contexts on the experiences of women in tech and shows that inequality is individually unique, complex, and contextual. The study reveals the mechanisms by which contextual gender dynamics shape the workplace experiences of inequality, and the relational and complex nature of intersectionality.
Factors affecting the rheology of cement‐based composites: A review
Authors: Sharma Astha , Gupta Sanchit , Noman Husain Momin , Chaudhary Sandeep
Published: February 2025

Rheology, the study of flow and deformation in materials, is key to understanding the flow behavior of fresh cementitious materials, which, in turn, influences their hardened properties and durability. The rheology of cementitious mixes is complex and significantly impacts their fresh‐state application in construction. Understanding and controlling the factors affecting rheology is crucial for optimizing mix designs and improving construction practices. This study provides an in‐depth understanding of cementitious mix rheology, factors influencing rheology, optimization, and its correlation with mathematical models. The paper presents the impact of internal factors, such as water–cement ratio and cement fineness, as well as external factors, like temperature, shear rate, and time, on the rheology of cementitious materials. The study examines how these factors influence fundamental rheological characteristics and behaviors such as thixotropy and shear thinning. It outlines ways to optimize mix designs, enhance workability, and improve emerging technologies like 3D concrete printing. Additionally, it correlates available mathematical models with the identified influencing factors. This analysis fills a gap in existing literature and contributes to advancing concrete technology and its practical applications, paving the way for innovative solutions in the construction industry. It also provides directions for future research in rheological behavior modeling, potentially leading to more efficient and sustainable concrete construction practices.
Blue/blue–violet‐emitting phosphate phosphors for full‐spectrum white light‐emitting diodes
Authors: Liu Shuifu , Yang Rujun , Xie Rong‐Jun
Published: February 2025

Violet light, a component of sunlight, is critical for human health, but it is usually ignored in classic white light‐emitting diodes (LEDs) that are fabricated by pumping green, yellow, or red phosphors by blue LEDs. To realized full‐spectrum white LEDs for healthy lighting, it is required to replace blue LEDs by near‐ultraviolet (n‐UV) or violet LEDs to pump multi‐color phosphors. Herein, we reported blue and/or blue–violet phosphors of Na3KMg7P6O24:Eu2+ (NKMPO:Eu2+) and Na3K1–ySryMg7–yLiyP6O24:Eu2+ (NKSMLPO:Eu2+) that can be efficiently excited by n‐UV and violet LEDs. The NKSMLPO:Eu2+ phosphor (y = 0.1), showing a small thermal quenching, had a photoluminescence quantum yield of 64.9% and 41.2% under 365 and 405 nm excitation, respectively. Full‐spectrum white LEDs were obtained by combining n‐UV or violet LEDs with the blue/blue–violet‐emitting NKSMLPO:Eu2+ and other commercial phosphors, which show a correlated color temperature of 4285–4705 K and a maximal color rendering index of 98.4. It confirms that the NKSMLPO:Eu2+ phosphors can be adopted as a violet light filler for producing sunlight‐like white LEDs.
Strength enhancement of laser 3D‐printed SiC green bodies by epoxy resin and phenolic resin dual binders
Authors: Wang Li , Yin Jie , Tian Huisheng , Chen Xiao , Wang Kanglong , Huang Zhengren
Published: February 2025

Laser 3D printing technology offers significant benefits in fabricating silicon carbide (SiC) ceramics, largely due to its support‐free structure and simplified construction process. However, the produced green parts exhibit considerable porosity and decreased strength, rendering them susceptible to damage during powder removal and subsequent processing stages. This vulnerability significantly hinders the practical applications of laser 3D‐printed SiC ceramics. This study introduced the use of epoxy resin–phenolic resin dual binders in the laser 3D printing of SiC ceramics, with the aim of improving the integrity and performance of both the green and debinded parts, as well as the final SiC ceramics. The highest strength of the SiC green part, with a 5 vol% addition of epoxy resin, reached 6.82 ± 0.38 MPa, while the strength of the densified SiC ceramic was enhanced to 240 ± 5 MPa.
Improved temperature coefficient of resistivity in La0.67Ca0.25‐xSr0.08AgxMnO3 (0.06 ≤ x ≤ 0.12) polycrystalline ceramics via Ag doping
Authors: Wang Jiachen , Sun Jiankun , Chen Zihao , Wang Yao , Han Jiamei , Wang Haitao , Liang Xiaolu , Wang Zhenyu , Pan Zimeng , Ma Jun , Jiang Xuexing , Gu Xin , Liu Xiang
Published: February 2025

Oxides with perovskite structures have received extensive research attention due to their fascinating physical properties. In this study, polycrystalline ceramics of La0.67Ca0.25‐xSr0.08AgxMnO3 (LCSAMO, x = 0.06, 0.08, 0.10, and 0.12) were obtained by changing the previous sol‐gel preparation process parameters. The results show that LCSAMO ceramics are orthogonal perovskite structures with a space group of Pnma. With increasing x, the grain size, lattice constants, Mn‐O bond length (dMn‐O), and Mn‐O‐Mn bond Angle (θMn‐O‐Mn) are slightly affected. When x = 0.08, the average grain size achieved a maximum value of 8.84 µm, which enhanced the intergranular connectivity. The Mn4+/(Mn3++Mn4+) ratio was the maximum value of 30.26% when x = 0.08, where the double exchange (DE) mechanism was the strongest among the four samples and optimized the electrical transport properties. Ag doping induces distortion in MnO6 octahedron. The electrical transport properties of the ceramics were improved by the combined effect of the distortion and DE mechanism. The temperature coefficient of resistivity (TCR) achieved the maximum value of 24.07% K−1 at 284.91 K. The results of this work provide a theoretical basis for Ag doping at the A‐site and thus obtaining lanthanide perovskite manganese oxide with high TCR.
Historical Biogeography, Speciation, and Niche Evolution of Alouatta (Primates, Atelidae)
Authors: Schwantes J. B. , Antunes L. A. , Fortes V. B. , Graichen D. A. S. , Robe L. J.
Published: February 2025

Aim

This study aims to evaluate the biogeographical and ecological patterns associated with the diversification and distribution of Alouatta species, commonly known as howler monkeys. Our research provides valuable insights into the comprehension of the evolutionary history of this genus.

Local

Neotropical region.

Time Period

Last 13 Mya.

Major Taxa Studied

11 species of Alouatta.

Methods

A dataset including 32 nuclear and mitochondrial genes was employed to reconstruct a dated maximum composite phylogenetic tree. Contemporary biodiversity data were employed in the context of this phylogenetic tree to reconstruct ancestral distribution and to infer the main speciation mechanisms. Niche evolution tests were performed for different bioclimatic and topographic variables to access patterns of niche divergence or niche conservatism.

Results

The diversification of Alouatta seems to have started ~13 Mya, probably near the Northwestern Amazon, and appears to have been driven mostly by niche divergence in parapatry. Despite this, niche conservatism or convergence led to significant overlap in ecological niches between some species, particularly those representing the early divergences of both South American clades.

Main Conclusions

The parapatric distribution presented by several pairs of Alouatta species generally evolved through environmental niche divergence driven by dispersal. The conservation or convergence of some niche traits is correlated with some secondary contacts, which may be increasing due to habitat loss. Niche conservation patterns found for some climatic variables highlight the susceptibility of the genus to climate change.
The Sentiments and the Impact of ChatGPT on Computer Programming Learning: Data Mining From Comments on YouTube Videos
Authors: Zhu Meina
Published: February 2025

Background

Computer programming learning and education play a critical role in preparing a workforce equipped with the necessary skills for diverse fields. ChatGPT and YouTube are technologies that support self‐directed programming learning.

Objectives

This study aims to examine the sentiments and primary topics discussed in YouTube comments about ChatGPT's impact on learning and writing computer programming.

Methods

The data were collected from 30 November 2022 to 11 January 2024, by extracting 30,773 comments from 57 YouTube videos. Sentiment analysis, topic modelling and thematic analysis were used for data analysis.

Results and Conclusions

Through sentiment analysis and thematic analysis, a positive attitude among YouTube self‐directed learners towards employing ChatGPT for learning and writing computer programming was identified. The results of topic modelling and thematic analysis revealed that these learners recognise both the perceived advantages and limitations of using ChatGPT for learning and writing computer programming. The advantages include creating learning plans, generating code, self‐correction, explaining code and saving programming time, while the limitations are incorrect information, challenges in debugging programmes, perceived inefficiency and ineffectiveness and the absence of intelligence. Diverse perspectives regarding the impact of ChatGPT on programming professions and education were discussed. Some ethical concerns regarding data privacy, code copyright and equity issues were raised and needed further exploration. The findings imply the importance of computer programming education and integrating ChatGPT into programming education. Guidelines and instructions regarding using ChatGPT for programming learning are needed.
Possible Limitations in the Management of a Small Ant Pest Species (Plagiolepis alluaudi) Using Gel Baits
Authors: Gordon Johnalyn M. , Timar Asher , Lucky Andrea , Oi Faith M. , Chouvenc Thomas
Published: February 2025

Alluaud's little yellow ant, Plagiolepis alluaudi Emery 1894, (Hymenoptera: Formicidae), is an emerging nuisance species in floriculture and residential areas around the globe. Originally described from Madagascar, it ranks among the smallest widespread formicine pests. To date, no evaluations of management protocols for this species have been reported. In ants, feeding preference is related to ant body size and viscosity and nutritional content of the food source. Optimizing these factors could lead to improved bait performance. To assess population management implications of various bait parameters on a small pest ant species, four commercial ant baits of varying viscosities, active ingredient (AI) group and concentration, and nutritional content were evaluated in laboratory and field assays against P. alluaudi. All four products negatively affected P. alluaudi survival compared to the untreated control, and all products were associated with greater visitation compared to the control, suggesting all AIs tested are viable candidates for P. alluaudi management. However, their direct use for population management in the field may be limited, as feeding cessation was eventually observed on all four baits. When baits were diluted with water, viscosity was reduced and survival was initially higher compared to with undiluted baits. However, similarly low levels of survival were maintained over time. Most importantly, we found in a 2‐year observational field study involving sustained baiting within an infested structure that only the bait formulation with the lowest overall viscosity was able to alleviate P. alluaudi nuisance indoors. Our results suggest that diluting baits may be a viable strategy for targeting very small pest ant species, and the greater time to lethality of diluted baits, resulting from reduced toxicant concentration, may be a reasonable trade‐off allowing smaller ant species to continue feeding for a sufficient duration on a bait formulation.
Color Match of Single‐Shade Versus Multi‐Shade Resin Composites: A Systematic Review With Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Forabosco Eleonora , Josic Uros , Consolo Ugo , Generali Luigi , D'Alessandro Carlo , Breschi Lorenzo , Checchi Vittorio
Published: February 2025

Objective

To address the following PICOS question: Can single‐shade resin composites achieve a color match comparable to multi‐shade composites in tooth restoration?

Materials and Methods

A comprehensive search was conducted across multiple electronic databases to identify in vitro and clinical studies evaluating the color match in tooth restoration, in terms of CIELAB (ΔEab) and/or CIEDE2000 (ΔE00) color differences metrics, using single‐shade and multi‐shade composites. The risk of bias was assessed using the Quality Assessment Tool For In Vitro Studies (QUIN Tool), while the revised Cochrane Collaboration's tool (RoB 2) was employed for randomized controlled clinical trials (RCTs). Meta‐analyses were performed using RevMan to compare ΔEab and ΔE00 values between single‐shade and multi‐shade composites (p < 0.05).

Results

After initial screening, 15 in vitro studies and 4 RCTs met the inclusion criteria for qualitative synthesis, with 8 in vitro studies selected for quantitative analysis. The majority of in vitro studies were classified as medium risk of bias, while RCTs were ranked as low risk of bias. Meta‐analyses performed on in vitro studies revealed that single‐shade composites exhibited statistically significant higher color differences with the surrounding tooth structure compared to multi‐shade composites, for both ΔEab and ΔE00 (p < 0.05). However, RCTs usually reported promising outcomes for single‐shade materials.

Conclusions

This systematic review concluded that multi‐shade composites provide a more accurate color match between tooth and direct restoration than single‐shade materials when evaluated by instrumental analysis in laboratory settings.

Clinical Significance

Multi‐shade composites exhibit superior color match properties in laboratory studies. However, single‐shade composites are a promising alternative when observed visually in clinical settings.
Evaluation of the Pink Esthetic Score for Single Implants in the Esthetic Zone Using Intraoral Scanning Data: A Proof‐of‐Concept Study
Authors: Wu Ziang , Su Guanyu , Yu Xinbo , Ye Lijuan , Wang Feng , Xu Chun
Published: February 2025

Objectives

To evaluate the feasibility of esthetic assessments based on intraoral scanning data using pink and white esthetic scores (PES/WES).

Materials and Methods

Thirty samples with both intraoral photographs and scanning data were collected and rated by two observers with excellent consistency independently. PES includes seven variables, and WES includes five. The maximum scores were 14 and 10, respectively.

Results

The mean PES/WES was 10.60 ± 1.69 and 8.50 ± 1.28 for photographs and 10.97 ± 1.69 and 8.40 ± 1.25 for scanning data. No significant difference was observed between the two sample types. The alveolar process variable had significantly higher scores, while the soft‐tissue color variable had significantly lower scores based on intraoral photographs compared to scanning.

Conclusions

Intraoral scanning could be a method for the esthetic evaluation of single implant‐supported restorations using PES/WES. The use of three‐dimensional imaging enables the precise assessment of esthetic outcomes, paving the way for improvements in the digital workflow of implant dentistry. However, the limitations of color and texture reproducibility should be noted.

Clinical Significance

Intraoral scanning data can be used for esthetic evaluation, and reliable results could be achieved with the application of scanning.
Tilapia Diseases Reported in Mexico: A Systematic Review
Authors: Fimbres‐Acedo Yenitze E. , Maeda‐Martínez Alfonso N. , Garza‐Torres Rodolfo
Published: February 2025

Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) is an important food source worldwide and plays a significant role in Mexico's aquaculture industry. However, it faces increasing challenges from disease outbreaks threatening this sector. From recent research and epidemiological data, this review examines the diseases impacting tilapia aquaculture in Mexico. It analyses bacterial, parasitic, viral, and fungal infections, providing insights into their clinical signs, etiological agents, treatment strategies, and geographical distribution across various Mexican states. The study highlights four major parasitic infections: Cichlidogyrus Infection, Gyrodactyliasis, Neobenedeniosis and Trichodiniasis. Six prominent bacterial infections are discussed, including motile Aeromonas septicaemia (MAS), Streptococcosis, Staphylococcosis, Francisellosis, Edwardsiellosis and Mycobacteriosis. It addresses Saprolegniasis, a fungal infection affecting tilapia eggs and the overall health of hatcheries. Additionally, it highlights technical information on the Tilapia Lake Virus (TiLV), which poses a significant viral threat. This analysis examines the three‐level diagnostic system for infectious diseases in aquaculture outlined by the FAO, emphasising its application in tilapia aquaculture in Mexico. The system includes (i) implementing prevention strategies, biosecurity protocols and good management practices (Level I); (ii) conducting laboratory‐based diagnostic tests (Level II); and (iii) utilising advanced molecular techniques for early disease detection (Level III). By adopting these measures, the aquaculture sector can effectively mitigate disease outbreaks, thereby promoting the sustainable growth and long‐term success of tilapia farming in Mexico.
Managing Bias in the Care of Pregnant and Parenting People with Substance Use Disorder
Authors: Kramer Briana E. , Warren Nicole , Terplan Mishka , Creanga Andreea A. , Bower Kelly M.
Published: February 2025

Background

Unintentional overdose is the leading cause of pregnancy‐associated death in Maryland and is preventable. Stigma contributes to birthing peoples’ disengagement with the health care system, and health care professionals may participate in stigmatizing processes. We aimed to develop and evaluate a training on stigma and bias related to substance use disorder (SUD) for maternal health care professionals in Maryland.

Methods

We used a community‐engaged process to develop a training on stigma and bias related to SUD in pregnancy and implemented it with Maryland maternal health care professionals employed in birth hospital settings. We conducted a multimethod pre‐post training evaluation, using a quantitative analysis of implementation reach, a pre‐post knowledge test, a satisfaction survey, and a qualitative analysis of hospital facilitation meeting logs.

Results

The training was completed by 1145 health care professionals. Knowledge test scores increased significantly after training, with the greatest change noted in the safety of medications for opioid use disorder during pregnancy. Over 90% of participants found the training relevant and planned to actively use what they learned. Qualitative feedback indicated the training may increase empathy with the patient population and contribute to practice changes.

Discussion

Our evaluation suggests that this training is valuable, effective at increasing knowledge, and a potential catalyst for practice change among health care professionals working with pregnant and postpartum patients with SUD.
Underwater bridge pier morphology measurement method via refraction correction and multi‐camera calibration
Authors: Wu Tao , Hou Shitong , Wu Zhishen , Xiong Wen , Zhang Jian , Shao Xinxing , He Xiaoyuan , Wu Gang
Published: February 2025

Underwater structural inspection is essential for ensuring the safety and longevity of bridges. To improve the efficiency and accuracy of these inspections, this paper presents a method for measuring the morphology of bridge piers through refraction correction and multi‐camera calibration. Using an underwater visual inspection platform with appropriate lighting, the measurement equipment mitigates low visibility challenges. A coplanar camera refraction parameter calibration method based on encoded markers is proposed to reduce the effects of refraction, along with the development of a multi‐refraction correction model. Additionally, a novel multi‐camera extrinsic calibration method is introduced to stitch point clouds. A comparative analysis of the two extrinsic calibration methods, conducted both in air and underwater, has been performed to validate the accuracy and efficiency of the proposed approach. Finally, the circular cross‐section shape of the underwater bridge pier was successfully measured, and the results of defect localization were effectively presented.
Head Posture and Upper Spine Morphological Deviations in Patients With Hypermobile Ehlers–Danlos Syndrome
Authors: Jasemi Ashkan , Lauridsen Eva Fejerskov , Sonnesen Liselotte
Published: February 2025

Objective

To compare head posture and upper spine morphology in hypermobile Ehlers‐Danlos syndrome (hEDS) patients with healthy controls with neutral occlusion.

Materials and Methods

The study consisted of 27 hEDS patients (23 females, 4 males, mean age 36.41 ± 11.35) and 39 healthy controls (28 females, 11 males, mean age 31.85 ± 11.35) with neutral occlusion and no previous orthodontic treatment. Head posture was analysed by angular measurements on lateral cephalograms taken in natural head position and upper spine morphology was assessed on Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) by visual analysis of fusion and partial cleft of the upper spine and compared by general linear and logistic analyses adjusted for age and gender.

Results

In total, upper spine morphological deviations occurred significantly more often in hEDS patients (51.9%) compared to controls (15.4%) (p = 0.007). Out of the two categories of upper spine morphological deviations (fusion anomalies and posterior arch deficiencies (PAD)), PAD occurred significantly more often in hEDS patients (48.1%) compared to controls (12.8%) (p = 0.007). The differences remained significant when p‐values were corrected for multiple testing comparing groups. Head posture was almost significantly more extended in hEDS patients compared to controls when the p‐values were corrected for multiple testing comparing groups (NSL/VER, p = 0.089; NSL/OPT, p = 0.080).

Conclusions

The results of the present study indicate that upper spine morphology is affected in hEDS patients. The results may contribute to a further understanding of the spinal phenotypic spectrum in hEDS patients and thus prove valuable in the diagnostics and treatment of hEDS patients.
Supportive Interventions Involving Family Carers of Patients With Delirium Superimposed on Dementia in Hospital: A Scoping Review
Authors: Ashton‐Gough Caroline , Lynch Jennifer , Goodman Claire
Published: February 2025

Background

People with dementia admitted to hospital are at risk of developing delirium. Patients with delirium superimposed on dementia (DSD) have higher mortality rates, longer hospital stays and further cognitive loss. The role of family is often recommended as a resource to inform and support how patients with dementia's needs are understood. This review focuses on ward‐based interventions that enable family carers and health care professionals to work together to improve patient experience and outcomes.

Aim

To review evidence on ward‐based approaches involving family (or their proxies) and staff working together to prevent and manage delirium for patients living with dementia.

Methods

We undertook a scoping review including all types of research. Six electronic databases were searched (CINAHL, MEDLINE (run twice), EMBASE, Cochrane, PsycINFO and PubMed). The search was limited to papers written in English and published from 2009 to 2019. The search was updated in 2023. Papers were independently read by two researchers. Findings were presented through narrative synthesis (Prospero CRD42019130369).

Results

Fifteen papers were included. Studies focused on educational and system change to improve the care of people with DSD. Family involvement ranged from enabling baseline assessment of delirium, commenting on different resources and measures designed to support their involvement in care or simulate their presence. The evidence of effectiveness was varied. Interventions to support personalised care and give family carers and staff confidence were positively evaluated in some studies but not all included both family carers and staff. Benefits to patients over time were less clearly demonstrated.

Conclusion

This review identified the potential of family to mitigate the risk of delirium and improve patient outcomes. Further research is needed to understand how system and practitioner changes to enable family involvement in the support of people with DSD benefit patients in the short and long term.

Relevance to Clinical Practice

The review findings provide evidence for clinical practice when selecting existing interventions and approaches involving family in supporting patients with DSD.

Patient or Public Contribution

Not required as this was a review, not an original piece of research.
CmPPR4 gene controls drought resilience in melon ecotypes
Authors: Xia Yuelin , Xu Mingze , Yang Qinrong , Zhang Yutong , Shen Qinhui , Zhao Haoshun , Zhang Kejia , Meng Yiqing , Batool Asmat , Bo Yongming , Jin Rongrong , Cao Hong , Hu Zhongyuan , Yang Jinghua , Zhang Mingfang , Lyu Xiaolong
Published: February 2025

Global climate change has rendered drought stress an increasing threat to sustainable crop production. Melon (Cucumis melo) crop is widely cultivated worldwide, and has been classified into two subspecies C. melo ssp. melo and C. melo ssp. agrestis with greater drought tolerance variation. However, the genetic basis for the difference in drought resilience between two subspecies ecotypes remains unclear. In this study, we constructed an F8 recombinant inbred lines (RILs) population generated by crossing drought‐tolerant C. melo ssp. melo with drought‐sensitive C. melo ssp. agrestis and identified a CmPPR4 gene that encoded a pentatricopeptide repeat (PPR) protein highly associated with drought tolerance. A single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) variation in CmPPR4 resulted in a nonsynonymous mutation, leading to reduced drought resilience in C. melo ssp. agrestis. The geographical distribution of CmPPR4 genotypes among 297 melon accessions closely parallels global annual precipitation patterns. Furthermore, the diminished drought tolerant capacity in RNA silencing seedlings and enhanced drought tolerance in overexpression lines further confirmed CmPPR4 as a crucial regulator of drought tolerance in melon. Collectively, our findings provide new insights into the crucial role of CmPPR4 in regulating drought tolerance of melon ecotypes, promoting molecular breeding of water‐saving and drought‐resilient melon cultivars.
Transcriptomic analysis of the mandibular gland genes associated with reproductive dominance in Apis mellifera capensis Esch. parasitic workers
Authors: Mumoki Fiona Nelima , Pirk Christian Walter Werner , Crewe Robin Michael , Yusuf Abdullahi Ahmed
Published: February 2025

Regulation of reproductive division of labour is generally modulated by the queen's chemical secretions, particularly the mandibular gland (MG) pheromone complex. Workers can activate their ovaries and lay unfertilised eggs with some dominant workers able to produce queen‐like MG signals to become false queens. We examined the effect of social condition as a regulator of social behaviour, by investigating differential gene expression in the MG of two subspecies of African honey bees, with differing reproductive potentials and, at two ages. Sequencing of RNA from young and older Apis mellifera scutellata (low reproductive potential) and A. m. capensis (higher reproductive potential) workers was carried out. A total of 5646 transcripts were differentially expressed across four libraries, classified into 29 biological processes based on their gene ontology accessions. Further, 48 differentially expressed genes were found to be putatively associated with the biosynthesis of MG fatty acids. Of these, 25 were cytochrome P450s thought to participate in the caste‐specific hydroxylation of stearic acid, a crucial regulatory point in the biosynthetic pathway. Multiple points of regulation were identified starting from in‐situ biosynthesis and activation of stearic acid, caste‐specific hydroxylation, transport between organelles, uncompleted β‐oxidation and oxidation of 9‐hydroxy‐2‐decenoic acid (9‐HDA) to 9‐oxo‐2 (E)‐decenoic acid (9‐ODA). Our data shows that regardless of age, reproductively dominant individuals switch on a very specific set of genes as they transition from worker‐like to queen‐like MG signals. This study provides insight into the molecular‐level changes that occur as workers switch from social cooperative behaviours to reproductive dominance.
Analysis of Population‐Level Avirulence and Virulence Genetic Frequencies Provides Insight Into Resistance Gene Rotation and Plant Disease Epidemiology
Authors: McCallum Alec J. , Idnurm Alexander , Scanlan Jack L. , Van de Wouw Angela P.
Published: February 2025

Blackleg disease, caused by Leptosphaeria maculans, leads to significant yield losses to canola (Brassica napus) production worldwide. Whilst the impact of this disease can be minimised by genetic resistance in B. napus, pathogen populations evolve quickly to overcome this resistance and restore virulence. To prevent yield losses due to the evolution of virulence, population‐level monitoring is required so that timely warnings can be provided to growers and breeders. Here, we develop high‐throughput sequencing‐based molecular markers for L. maculans avirulence or virulence towards five B. napus resistance genes that allow their frequency to be determined within entire populations, rather than individual isolates. Using these markers on Australian spore populations, we show that avirulence alleles are present in populations at low frequencies, even when the corresponding resistance gene is deployed in the plant host. Furthermore, virulence frequencies can vary dramatically from different pieces of stubble (crop debris) within the same paddock. These results show that population‐level markers are an effective tool for monitoring virulence and highlight the significant gaps in the current understanding of the breakdown of plant genetic resistance, whereby it is unclear what percentage of the population is required to be avirulent for a resistance gene to be effective.
Large x$x$ Asymptotics of the Soliton Gas for the Nonlinear Schrödinger Equation
Authors: Han Xiaofeng , Zhang Xiaoen , Dong Huanhe
Published: February 2025

In this paper, we construct a Riemann–Hilbert problem of the soliton gas for the nonlinear Schrödinger equation, derived by taking the limit of the soliton solutions as . The discrete spectra corresponding to the soliton solutions are located in four disjoint intervals on the imaginary axis, which are symmetric about the real axis. We analyze the large asymptotics by setting the time variable to zero. Using the Deift–Zhou nonlinear steepest‐descent method, we find that the large asymptotics at behave differently, as , the asymptotics decays to the zero background exponentially, while as , the leading‐order term can be expressed with a Riemann‐theta function of genus three. In the conclusion, we expand this case to the general intervals and conjecture on the large  asymptotics.
A Latent Class Analysis Predicting STEM Career Interest and Perceptions of Barriers
Authors: Mulvey Kelly Lynn , Cerda‐Smith Jacqueline , Joy Angelina , Ozturk Emine
Published: February 2025

During adolescence, individuals make key decisions about coursework, and career paths, including paths toward careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). This study identified groups of adolescents who vary in STEM career interests, feelings of support, and perceptions of barriers in STEM and explored what factors predict group membership. Using a latent class analysis with a sample of 473 9th and 10th grade students from public schools in the Southeastern United States (Mage = 15.14, 48.4% White and 43.6% female), 4 distinct classes of adolescents were identified: low STEM, supported with barriers (38.2%), high STEM with barriers (26%), high STEM without barriers (21.6%), and low STEM with high barriers (14.2%). The likelihood of membership in the high STEM without barriers class was higher for participants who reported greater STEM class belonging, growth mindset, and engagement. Efforts to promote continued STEM trajectories may focus on belonging, mindsets, and fostering STEM engagement.
Self‐efficacy, agency, and values as predictors of STEM teacher leader identity in urban‐like learning environments
Authors: Leonard Justin , Blondonville‐Ford Damaries , Grubb Derrick , Cheng Diana , Wang Xiaoyin
Published: February 2025

Teacher leaders influence their peers by introducing innovative instructional methods and enhancing teaching quality. They have proven invaluable to school principals as they prioritize comprehensive teacher development, bolster teacher effectiveness, and promote teacher retention. Despite their importance, little to no research—prior to the present study—has shed light on the development of teacher leaders and the evolution of their leadership identity. While science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) teacher leaders offer a potential remedy for attrition in public schools, a substantial gap exists in understanding how a STEM teacher's self‐efficacy, values, and agency contribute to their transformation into effective STEM teacher leaders, especially in urban‐like learning environments. The present study focuses on STEM teacher leadership identity development and the challenges encountered. It ascertains the interplay between urban‐like learning environments, self‐efficacy, agency, the teacher leader's role within the school, and values in forecasting STEM teacher leadership identity. This research involved 100 in‐service PreK‐12 public school STEM teacher leaders. It yielded significant, positive, and meaningful relations between urban‐like learning environments, self‐efficacy/agency, teacher leader role, values, and STEM teacher leadership identity. These findings can enhance various facets of PreK‐12 STEM education, including educational programming, teacher training, and cultivating STEM teacher leadership.
Bridging the Cognitive/Collective and Supply/Demand Divides in Conspiracy Theory Research
Authors: Peker Efe , Dufour Frédérick Guillaume
Published: February 2025

Objectives

Despite the fast growth of the social scientific literature on conspiracy theories, fragmentation rather than dialogue is the norm across disciplines. One such division is between the individual/cognitive versus sociopolitical dimensions of conspiracy beliefs, which are often studied in isolation. This article aims to contribute to bridging the gap.

Methods

We carry out a selective review of the post‐2010 literature that approaches conspiracy theories from (social) psychological and political sociological perspectives to highlight and compare their main inquiries and findings.

Results

The examination finds that the psychological scholarship, which deals with individual and group‐based variables, is more attuned to studying the public “demand” for conspiracy theories. By contrast, research on conspiracy theories in collective phenomena such as populism and social movements is more inclined to elucidate the “supply” side of the equation.

Conclusions

In addition to the quantitative‐qualitative rift already identified in the literature, conspiracy theory scholarship is also shaped by the divides that pertain to the level of analysis and the supply and demand sides of the conspiracy “market” dynamics. The article argues for a closer dialogue between micro (individual), meso (interpersonal), and macro (national/global) levels of analysis to integrate the demand and supply factors nourishing conspiracy narratives.
Tasselyzer, a machine learning method to quantify maize anther exertion, based on PlantCV
Authors: Teng Chong , Fahlgren Noah , Meyers Blake C.
Published: February 2025

Maize anthers emerge from male‐only florets, a process that involves complex genetic programming and is affected by environmental factors. Quantifying anther exertion provides a key indicator of male fertility; however, traditional manual scoring methods are often subjective and labor‐intensive. To address this limitation, we developed Tasselyzer — an accessible, cost‐effective, and time‐saving method for quantifying maize anther exertion. This image‐based program uses the PlantCV platform to provide a quantitative assessment of anther exertion by capturing regional differences within the tassel based on the distinct color of anthers. We applied this method to 22 maize lines with six genotypes, showing high precision (F1 score > 0.8). Furthermore, we demonstrate that customizing the parameters to assay a specific line is straightforward and practical for enhancing precision in additional genotypes. Tasselyzer is a valuable resource for maize research and breeding programs, enabling automated and efficient assessments of anther exertion.