bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Insects as Natural Hosts, Vectors and Reservoirs of Botulinum Neurotoxin‐Producing Clostridia and Their Non‐Toxinogenic Counterparts: Preliminary Evidence
Authors: Douillard François P. , Lanzoni Olivia , Duplouy Anne , Lindström Miia
Published: February 2025

Insects play a significant role in the transmission and spread of bacterial pathogens that cause various diseases in humans and animals. The relationship among insects, bacterial pathogens and diseases is complex and depends on the specificity of the pathogens. Some clostridial species produce botulinum neurotoxin (BoNT), which is responsible for paralytic botulism. However, the ecology of these bacterial species and their non‐toxinogenic phylogenetic counterparts remains unclear. This study specifically explored in silico evidence of the interconnection between BoNT‐producing Clostridia and their non‐toxinogenic counterparts with insects. Based on literature meta‐analysis, the mining of 16S rRNA amplicon and metagenomic sequencing datasets and a pilot feeding experiment in the Glanville fritillary butterfly, Melitaea cinxia, we propose that BoNT‐producing Clostridia and their non‐toxinogenic phylogenetic counterparts are carried internally and/or externally in different insect orders. While previous case studies have indicated associations between Clostridia and insects, this work provides a more comprehensive view of their occurrence. It also highlights the need for further multidisciplinary investigations to characterise the natural ecology of BoNT‐producing Clostridia and their non‐toxinogenic counterparts in insects.
Muscling in and Making Space: ‘Demonstrable Claims’ and ‘Jurisdictional Clipping’ in the Reconfiguration of Professional Jurisdictions in the Surgical Care of Older People
Authors: Waring Justin J. , Martin Graham P.
Published: February 2025

This paper examines the micro‐processes of jurisdictional change in the eco‐systems of healthcare work. This qualitative study investigated the expansion of geriatrician involvement in the perioperative pathway for older people. This study shows how, in response to opposition from surgeons and anaesthetists, geriatricians developed linked strategies that involved claiming the medical needs of surgical patients, and simultaneously integrating geriatric expertise into the non‐surgical peripheries of the pathway. By progressively demonstrating their ability to mitigate risks and improve surgical outcomes, geriatricians acquired an expanded role in the care pathway. This paper develops the concepts of ‘demonstrable claims’ and ‘jurisdictional clipping’ to explain the strategies of jurisdictional expansion. It also problematises these strategies by suggesting that role expansion was controlled and contained by more powerful incumbent groups, whereby the expansion of work was limited to temporal and spatial peripheries that were less valued by surgeons or anaesthetists.
Feasibility of a Standardised Mid‐Trimester Ultrasound Protocol: A National Multicenter Study
Authors: Bultez Thierry , Salomon Laurent Julien , Mahallati Houman , Fries Nicolas ,   the CNEOFT2 Study Group
Published: February 2025

Objective

Evaluate the feasibility and quality of a national standardised mid‐trimester ultrasound protocol using a consensus‐based quality assessment (QA) scoring system.

Design

Multicenter prospective observational ‘FLASH’ study.

Setting

(i) Assessing the feasibility of a standardised protocol of 24 views at the mid‐trimester scan, with 21 recommended and 3 additional views, in routine practice.

(ii) Assessing the quality of these images by evaluating the presence of conformity criteria.

(iii) Analysing the reliability between self‐assessment and peer‐assessment of the images.

Population

A total of 440 mid‐trimester scans.

Methods

A consensus‐based QA scoring system comprising 73 conformity criteria was established with 28 experts using a 3‐round Delphi method. Secondly, we asked operators to record 5 consecutive routine mid‐trimester scans. Images were analysed by the sonographer themselves and by a qualified expert according to the scoring system. The frequency of recorded images was calculated for each of the views. Factors associated with missing images per scan were evaluated. The robustness of conformity criteria was assessed by reliability between self‐evaluation and peer‐evaluation.

Main outcome measures

Based on 9849 images, we observed feasibility of the 21 recommended standardised views for mid‐trimester scan ranging from 88.5% to 100%.

Results

Most conformity criteria (64/73, 88%) were met in over 90% of cases. Gwet's AC1 correlation between expert evaluation (peer‐evaluation) and participant evaluation (self‐evaluation) was greater than 0.80 for 70/73 (96%) criteria.

Conclusion

This large‐scale 2‐month ‘flash’ observational study demonstrates the feasibility and quality of a national standardised mid‐trimester ultrasound protocol using a consensus‐based QA scoring system.
Influence of Sunlight and Shade on Decomposition and Insect Colonization
Authors: Park Woong‐Bae , Moon Tae‐Young , Park Sang‐Hyun , Do Yuno
Published: February 2025

This study investigates the influence of microenvironmental factors on carcass decomposition and insect colonization, emphasizing the detailed analysis of insect communities. The research involved placing two pig carcasses in contrasting environments: one in a sunlit open field and the other in a shaded forest area. Over 10 days, we observed variations in decomposition rates, with the carcass in the sunlit area decomposing faster than the one in the shade. This research applies Symbolic Aggregate approXimation to transform the daily measurements of carcass weight into symbolic sequences, enabling a comparison of temporal patterns in insect colonization and decomposition dynamics between the environments. Additionally, we utilized alpha and beta diversity assessments to explore the composition and behavior of the insect populations. Our findings revealed dynamic shifts in insect diversity in the sunlit area, marked by a rapid increase followed by a decline, contrasting with steadier, gradual changes in the shaded area. These shifts underscore the sensitivity of insect communities to subtle differences in sunlight and temperature exposure. Our study confirms the significant impact of these environmental factors on both decomposition rates and insect community dynamics, highlighting their potential to refine post‐mortem interval estimations in forensic entomology. This enhances our understanding of how environmental conditions directly influence insect colonization, offering valuable insights for forensic applications.
Functional yacon juice fermented by Lactiplantibacillus plantarum QS7T: Chemical composition, flavor volatiles, and gut microbiota modulation
Authors: Zhu Yuan‐ting , Ma Qian , Zhang Xin‐yu , Gong Gui‐zhen , Wang Yi‐xin , Zeng Lin‐zhi , Li Rui‐tong , Xiao Chen , Zuo Yong
Published: February 2025

To prepare functional yacon juice, this study investigates the optimal fermentation duration, shelf‐life, chemical composition, and flavor volatiles of yacon juice fermented by Lactiplantibacillus plantarum QS7T capable of utilizing fructo‐oligosaccharides (FOS), along with its effects on gut microbiota. The optimal fermentation period was determined as 30 h, resulting in essential parameters: 3.46 g L−1 for total acids and a viable lactic acid bacteria (LAB) count of 2.3 × 108 CFU mL−1. The predicted shelf life when stored at 4°C is 28 days. Throughout storage, the juice maintained significant FOS and viable LAB count (8.0 × 107 CFU mL−1). Total short‐chain fatty acid significantly increased post‐fermentation and storage, reaching 177.86 µg mL−1. The total content and types of volatile components in yacon juice after fermentation by L. plantarum QS7T significantly increased, thus altering the flavor and improving the juice's appeal. Functional yacon juice also induced significant alterations in gut microbiota structure and abundance in mice, including increasing the abundance of beneficial microbes such as Firmicutes, Actinobacteriota, Faecalibaculum, Dubosiella, Bifidobacterium, and Akkermansia. These results indicate fermented yacon juice's potential as a functional food for gut microbiota modulation and anti‐inflammatory benefits.
Evaluating the physicochemical properties and antioxidant capacity of Prunus mandshurica (Maxim.) Koehne clones
Authors: Ren Tingting , Sun Yongqiang , Chen Jianhua , Chen Wanxi , Yang Hanying , Dong Shengjun
Published: February 2025

Prunus mandshurica (Maxim.) Koehne pulp and almonds are rich in nutrients and bioactive compounds; however, their chemical composition and content remain unexplored. We systematically evaluated their physicochemical properties and antioxidant capacities using 14 clones. Significant differences in physicochemical properties observed between the tested clones provided opportunities for developing and utilizing germplasm resources. Clones with thicker pulps exhibited sweet flavors, heavier fruits, lighter almonds, and lower kernel rates. Their pulp was relatively low in total sugar (1.66 ‐ 14.91%) and soluble solids content (6.23 ‐ 18.67°Brix) but rich in titratable acidity (2.81 ‐ 4.20%) and vitamin C (0.97 ‐ 1.65 mg/g), making them a promising option for food and nutraceutical applications. Almond oil was the main component (50.02%), followed by protein (25.82%), and amygdalin (3.17%), with high balanced amino acid levels. Nine clones with amygdalin content > 3% indicated a high medicinal value. The fruit was rich in total phenolics, total flavonoids, and antioxidant capacity, and its pulp exhibited a stronger antioxidant capacity than that of almonds. Clones 783 and 717 had sweet and thick pulp with high nutrient content and antioxidant capacity, whereas clone 772 pulp exhibited a strong antioxidant capacity and a high yield, making it a good source of natural antioxidants. We are the first to assess the physicochemical properties and antioxidant capacity of 14 P. mandshurica clones fruit to explore their potential applications in the food and pharmaceutical industries, and provide data to support the selection of excellent germplasm for different needs.
Analysis of the bioactive parts and components of Aralia elata (Miq.) Seem based on non‐targeted metabolomics and its hepatoprotective effects induced by cyclophosphamide
Authors: Zhang Junqi , Chen Shanshan , Yan Haiyang , Song Yadong , Li Lu , Yuan Yuan
Published: February 2025

In the present study, non‐targeted metabolomics was utilized to identify the bioactive components in the root, seed, and leaf of Aralia elata (Miq.) Seem (A. elata), a traditional Chinese specialty vegetable. The relative content indicated that saponins, flavonoids, and phenolic acids were the main bioactive components, whereas principal component analysis showed significant differences among the three parts. ABTS, DPPH, ferric reducing antioxidant power, and hydroxyl radical scavenging capacity assays were conducted to evaluate the antioxidant activities of extracts from the three parts, and the root extract demonstrated the highest antioxidant potential. Correlation analyses revealed that saponins possessed the best antioxidant capacity. Twelve saponins in the root were identified from the total saponins (tSAs) by liquid chromatography–high‐resolution mass spectrometry. The protective effect of tSAs on cyclophosphamide‐induced liver damage was evaluated using BRL‐3A cells. The tSAs significantly enhanced the cellular antioxidant levels, reduced the levels of aspartate aminotransferase and alanine aminotransferase by 38.81% and 37.43%, respectively, and demonstrated evident hepatoprotective effects.

Practical Application

This research could help develop dietary supplements rich in antioxidants from the roots of Aralia elata (Miq.) Seem and also pave the way for novel therapies for liver diseases.
Cold atmospheric plasma treatment induces oxidative stress and alters microbial community profile in the leaves of sweet basil (Ocimum basilicum var. Kiera) plant
Authors: Gilbert‐Eckman Andrea R. , Gao Mairui , Blaustein Ryan A. , Tikekar Rohan V.
Published: February 2025

The oxidative species generated by cold atmospheric plasma (CAP) treatment can impact the plant stress response system. We hypothesized that this response is not limited to the site of CAP application and it is transmitted through the plant. The resulting stress response can influence the plant microbiome on the intact plant. These hypotheses were tested by the application of CAP to live sweet basil (Ocimum basilicum var. Kiera). A single upper leaf of the plant underwent a 60 s CAP treatment at three different wattage intensity levels. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation in directly treated leaves and leaves in the vicinity of the treatment site (i.e., one, two, or three nodes away) was measured using the fluorescein degradation assay (ex/em: 485/525). Leaves directly exposed to CAP showed a marked increase in ROS production. Interestingly, basil leaves not directly treated by CAP also showed a significant (p < 0.05) increase in ROS generation compared to untreated control, extending to the two nearest nodes from the treatment site in all plants tested. The leaf microbiomes were evaluated using 16S rRNA gene sequencing. CAP appeared to drive restructuring of the leaf microbiota profiles, despite maintaining a similar α‐diversity. CAP treatment intensity led to significant differences (p < 0.05) in the relative abundances of a variety of dominant bacterial families (e.g., Psuedomonadaceae and Streptomycetaceae) and phyla, and the effects on certain taxa were dependent on leaf distance from the treatment site. CAP's ability to restructure plant microbiota may have applications to improve produce microbial safety and shelf‐life.

Practical Application

Cold atmospheric plasma induces a stress response in a living plant beyond the site of application. This response includes an increase in the production of reactive oxygen species that can trigger pathways to enhance the production of phytochemicals. CAP treatment also alters the microbial community profile, possibly through plant stress response. Results from this study can be useful in developing CAP treatment of intact plant for improved growth, production of health‐benefiting phytochemicals, and managing its microbiota.
Reflections on Applying Systems Thinking to Stakeholder Mapping: The STOA Unit at the European Parliament
Authors: Amuso Valentina , Van Woensel Lieve
Published: February 2025

The EU has increasingly embraced foresight—a discipline aimed at enhancing preparedness by systematically exploring plausible futures—to minimise uncertainty and inform anticipatory governance. Within this context, the STOA Unit of the European Parliament has been actively engaged in foresight activities, developing the STEEPED framework for conducting systemic analyses of the ecosystems, in which the innovation, event or crisis is placed. The goal of the STEEPED framework is to offer a comprehensive system view. The STEEPED framework has been employed to guide horizon scanning, trend analyses and stakeholder selection. Specifically, stakeholder engagement is a crucial element in foresight analyses. The effectiveness of foresight analysis largely depends on stakeholders' ability to augment discussions via expertise and lived experiences. We explore how, through the STEEPED framework, STOA has informed foresight analysis and stakeholder mapping in the 10 years since its inception. Although the framework may represent a robust approach to analysis, it could be enhanced by more directly focusing on aspects such as affiliation, stakeholders' features and relations, highlighted in academic research on stakeholder mapping. We propose a novel framework in the form of a checklist that integrates principles from the STEEPED framework with perspectives from scholarly literature.
Adverse event signal analysis of remimazolam using the FDA adverse event reporting system database
Authors: Liu Hongtao , Li Zhaoyu , Yan Su , Ming Shaopeng
Published: February 2025

Background

Remimazolam, a novel ultra‐short‐acting benzodiazepine, has gained popularity in various anesthetic applications due to its pharmacokinetic advantages. However, as its use increases, safety concerns also rise, necessitating thorough examination. Additionally, the limited reports on its side effects require a broader investigation to better understand the drug's safety profile.

Methods

This observational study systematically investigated adverse drug events (ADEs) associated with remimazolam using the FAERS database from Q1 2020 to Q4 2023. The primary objective was to assess potential safety signals and provide comprehensive information for clinical and regulatory purposes.

Results

A total of 67 cases and 161 ADEs were identified. The incidence of ADEs was higher in patients aged >45 years, particularly those >65 years. Intravenous general anaesthesia was the most common administration method. Notable ADE signals included serious events such as allergic reactions, respiratory and cardiac arrest, and vascular access occlusion.

Conclusion

Clinicians should be vigilant about potential allergic reactions to remimazolam, especially in older patients, and avoid off‐label use until more data are available. Continuous monitoring of post‐market surveillance data is essential for uncovering undetected ADEs and ensuring the safe use of remimazolam.

Editorial comment

This study analyzed adverse drug events (ADEs) associated with remimazolam using the FAERS database, identifying serious safety signals like allergic reactions, respiratory and cardiac arrests, and vascular access site occlusions, especially in older patients. The findings highlight the need for vigilant monitoring, cautious off‐label use, and ongoing post‐marketing surveillance.
Plasma tsRNA Signatures Serve as a Novel Biomarker for Bladder Cancer
Authors: Xu Xinyan , Chen Jinbang , Bai Ming , Liu TianYao , Zhan Shoubin , Li Jiazheng , Ma YuanChun , Zhang Yulin , Wu Liming , Zhao Zihan , Liu Siyang , Chen Xi , Fang Feng , Guo Hongqian , Sun Ying , Yang Rong
Published: February 2025

Bladder cancer (BLCA) is one of the most common tumors of the urinary tract. The diagnosis of BLCA is mostly by invasive tests, which are damaging and unsuitable for early screening. Current non‐invasive diagnostic modalities are insufficient in sensitivity and specificity. Therefore, novel diagnostic markers are urgently needed to facilitate early detection of bladder cancer. tRNA‐derived small RNAs (tsRNAs) are considered to be novel and potentially biologically functional non‐coding RNAs (ncRNAs). tsRNAs have been used to help early diagnosis of a variety of tumors. However, whether tsRNAs in BLCA are altered or involved in BLCA progression or regulation remains unclear. Here, we identified a group of up‐regulated tsRNAs in BLCA by sequencing tsRNAs in the plasma of BLCA patients and normal controls and further screened two highly correlated tsRNAs with BLCA in the training set and validation set, which were named as tRF‐1:28‐chrM.Ser‐TGA and tiRNA‐1:34‐Glu‐CTC‐1‐M2. ROC analyses of the expression profiles of these two tsRNAs by the validation set identified a high diagnostic value. We also found that circulating tRF‐1:28‐chrM.Ser‐TGA and tiRNA‐1:34‐Glu‐CTC‐1‐M2 were specifically expressed and released by BLCA cells and were positively correlated with the degree of disease malignancy. In vitro and in vivo experiments revealed that the two tsRNAs exacerbated BLCA progression and played a role in promoting tumor lipid metabolism. Our study screened two plasma tsRNAs that could serve as valuable early screening and diagnostic biomarkers for BLCA and is also expected to provide potential novel molecular targets for the treatment of BLCA.
Treatment satisfaction and time in range after 16 weeks of treatment with iGlarLixi in insulin‐naive adults with suboptimally controlled type 2 diabetes
Authors: Shah Viral N. , Dex Terry , Meneghini Luigi , Rodrigues Amélie , Polonsky William H.
Published: February 2025

Aims

In Soli‐CGM, treatment with iGlarLixi (insulin glargine 100 U/mL and lixisenatide 33 μg/mL) in insulin‐naive adults with suboptimally controlled type 2 diabetes (T2D; haemoglobin A1c 9%–13% on ≥2 oral antihyperglycaemic agents (OADs) ± glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor agonist (GLP‐1 RA) therapy) increased time in range (TIR; primary endpoint) from 26.4% at baseline to 52.7% at Week 16. This exploratory analysis examined the impact of treatment with iGlarLixi on patient‐reported treatment satisfaction.

Materials and Methods

Soli‐CGM was a single‐arm, 16‐week, multicentre, interventional, open‐label, phase 4 study using blinded continuous glucose monitoring (CGM; FreeStyle Libre Pro) to assess glycaemic metrics (N = 124). CGM data were collected for a 2‐week period before initiation of iGlarLixi, and after treatment with iGlarLixi (Weeks 14–16). Treatment satisfaction was assessed using the Diabetes Medication Treatment Satisfaction Tool (DM‐SAT, which comprises four domains: well‐being, medical control, lifestyle and convenience), at baseline and end‐of‐treatment. Association of TIR and overall satisfaction (sum of all items) was also assessed.

Results

Overall, 118 (95.9%) and 107 (87.0%) participants completed the DM‐SAT at baseline and Week 16, respectively. Mean overall score increased by 0.18, from 0.59 (baseline) to 0.78 (Week 16). A trend in improvement in score was observed in all domains. Improvement in TIR had a positive, but weak, trend of association with improvement in overall treatment satisfaction (mean r = 0.14).

Conclusions

In people with T2D suboptimally controlled on ≥2 OADs ± GLP‐1 RA, 16 weeks' treatment with iGlarLixi resulted in a trend of improvement in treatment satisfaction.
Reference Ranges of Left Ventricular Global Longitudinal Strain by Contemporary Vendor‐Neutral Echocardiography Software in Healthy Subjects
Authors: Arockiam Aro Daniela , Dong Tiffany , Agrawal Ankit , Dahdah Joseph El , Haroun Elio , Majid Muhammad , Sorathia Sharmeen , Grimm Richard A. , Collier Patrick , Rodriguez Leonardo , Popovic Zoran B. , Griffin Brian P. , Wang Tom Kai Ming
Published: February 2025

Background

Left ventricular global longitudinal strain (LVGLS) by speckle‐tracking transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) is an established measure of left ventricular systolic function with many clinical applications. Strain software has evolved to achieve vendor‐neutrality in recent developments, although there is a notable absence of external validation studies. We assessed the normal ranges and associated factors of two‐dimensional LVGLS quantification by TomTec, EchoPAC, VVI, and Epsilon contemporary strain software in a healthy cross‐sectional cohort.

Methods

One hundred healthy subjects undergoing TTE during January–April 2023 at our institution were cross‐sectionally recruited, 20 per age‐group, 50% were female, and 50% had GE and 50% Philips scans. TomTec version 51.02 (Autostrain LV), EchoPAC version 206 (AFI‐LV), VVI version (V.2.00‐070730), and Epsilon (5.0.2.11295) were utilized to quantify two‐dimensional LVGLS in all patients for comparative and regression analyses.

Results

Means and lower limits of normal (95% confidence intervals) of LVGLS were −17.1% (−17.5%, −16.7%) and −14.7% (−15.4%, −14.0%) for TomTec; −17.8% (−18.4%, −17.2%) and −14.4% (−15.3%, −13.5%) for EchoPAC; −16.3% (−16.9%, −15.7%) and −13.0% (−13.9%, −12.1%) for VVI; and −17.0% (−17.6%, −16.4%) and −12.8% (−13.8%, −11.8%) for Epsilon. Factors significantly associated with LVGLS measurements in multivariable regression analyses with their beta‐coefficients (95% CI) were female −1.36 (−2.12, −0.59), heart rate (per 10 bpm) with a coefficient of 0.38 (0.10–0.66), left ventricular ejection fraction (per 10%) −1.03 (−1.72, −0.34), and EchoPAC (vs. TomTec) −0.62 (−1.2, 0.0), VVI (vs. TomTec) 0.82 (0.23, 1.41) and Epsilon (vs. TomTec) 0.13 (−0.45, 0.72).

Conclusion

LVGLS measurements were feasible across all four strain software on both GE and Philips scans in this study. Reference ranges to define normal, abnormal, and borderline LVGLS values along with associated factors in healthy patients are reported to enable clinical applications.
Advanced Computed Tomography and Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Ischemic and Nonischemic Cardiomyopathies
Authors: Tamizuddin Farah , Stojanovska Jadranka , Toussie Danielle , Shmukler Anna , Axel Leon , Srinivasan Ranjini , Fujikura Kana , Broncano Jordi , Frank Luba , Villasana‐Gomez Geraldine
Published: February 2025

Cardiomyopathies represent a diverse group of heart diseases that can be broadly classified into ischemic and nonischemic etiologies, each requiring distinct diagnostic approaches. Noninvasive imaging modalities, such as computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), play a pivotal role in the diagnosis, risk stratification, and prognosis of these conditions. This paper reviews the characteristic CT and MRI findings associated with ischemic cardiomyopathy (ICM) and nonischemic cardiomyopathy (NICM), focusing on their ability to provide detailed anatomical, functional, and tissue characterization. In ICM, CT and MRI reveal myocardial scarring, infarct size, and coronary artery disease, while MRI further distinguishes tissue viability through late gadolinium enhancement (LGE). Conversely, nonischemic cardiomyopathies demonstrate a wide array of findings, with MRI's LGE pattern analysis being particularly critical for identifying specific subtypes, such as restrictive, hypertrophic, or dilated cardiomyopathies. By comparing the strengths and limitations of these modalities, this paper highlights their complementary roles in improving diagnostic accuracy, risk stratification, prognosis, and therapeutic decision making in both ischemic and nonischemic cardiomyopathies.
Development of Evidence‐Based Guidelines for the Integration of Generative AI in University Education Through a Multidisciplinary, Consensus‐Based Approach
Authors: Symeou Loizos , Louca Loucas , Kavadella Argyro , Mackay James , Danidou Yianna , Raffay Violetta
Published: February 2025

Introduction

The introduction highlights the transformative impact of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) on higher education (HE), emphasising its potential to enhance student learning and instructor efficiency while also addressing significant challenges such as accuracy, privacy, and ethical concerns. By exploring the benefits and risks of AI integration, the introduction underscores the urgent need for evidence‐based, inclusive, and adaptable frameworks to guide universities in leveraging GenAI responsibly and effectively in academic environments.

Aims

This paper presents a comprehensive process for developing cross‐disciplinary and consensus‐based guidelines, based on the latest evidence for the integration of GenAI at European University Cyprus (EUC). In response to the rapid adoption of AI tools such as LLMs in HE, a task group at EUC created a structured framework to guide the ethical and effective use of GenAI in academia, one that was intended to be flexible enough to incorporate new developments and not infringe on instructors' academic freedoms, while also addressing ethical and practical concerns.

Results

The framework development was informed by extensive literature reviews and consultations. Key pillars of the framework include: addressing the risks and opportunities presented by GenAI; promoting transparent communication; ensuring responsible use by students and educators; safeguarding academic integrity. The guidelines emphasise the balance between, on the one hand, leveraging AI to enhance educational experiences, and, on the other maintaining critical thinking and originality. The framework also includes practical recommendations for AI usage, classroom integration, and policy formulation, ensuring that AI augments rather than replaces human judgement in educational settings.

Conclusions

The iterative development process, including the use of GenAI tools for refining the guidelines, illustrates a hands‐on approach to AI adoption in HE, and the resulting guidelines may serve as a model for other higher education institutions (HEIs) aiming to integrate AI tools while upholding educational quality and ethical standards.
Can Generative AI Revolutionise Academic Skills Development in Higher Education? A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Daniel Kangwa , Msambwa Msafiri Mgambi , Wen Zhang
Published: February 2025

This systematic review investigates the impact of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) tools on developing academic skills in higher education. Analysing 158 studies published between 2021 and 2024, it focuses on the impact of GenAI tools on the development of cognitive, technical and interpersonal skills. The results reveal that 94% of the sampled studies reported significant improvements in cognitive skills, like critical thinking, problem‐solving, analytical and metacognitive abilities, facilitated by personalised learning and feedback. Indeed, the development of technical skills was reported in research (24%), writing (26%), data analysis (33%) and technical literacy (18%). Additionally, GenAI tools were found to promote interpersonal skills by fostering interactive and engaging learning environments, with notable skills development in communication (24%), organisation (26%), empathy (5%) and teamwork (45%). Hence, this review underscores the importance of ethical and responsible use of GenAI tools, ongoing monitoring and active stakeholder engagement to maximise their benefits in developing cognitive, technical and interpersonal skills in higher education. They offer a promising avenue for academic advancement by fostering critical thinking, enhancing technical proficiency and promoting effective communication and teamwork. Therefore, GenAI tools significantly enhance academic skills; however, their integration requires a robust ethical framework and sustained examination of their long‐term impacts.
Promoting Environmental Justice: A Case Study of E‐Waste Management Practices in Selected Public Schools in the Philippines
Authors: Variacion Fredelyn D. , Castulo Nilo Jayoma , Marasigan Arlyne C.
Published: February 2025

Proper waste management, aimed at making cities inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable, has been one of the goals of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. This, in turn, contributes to quality education and environmental justice. Thus, this study examined e‐waste management practices in selected public secondary schools in the Philippines. A qualitative descriptive case study was conducted to explore e‐waste management practices. Purposive sampling was used to interview nine key informants from teaching and non‐teaching personnel in three selected public secondary schools in Sorsogon Province, Philippines. The findings revealed that school‐based waste was mainly collected without proper sorting, observing the 3Rs (reduce, reuse, recycle), or establishing composting areas. The challenges in e‐waste management practices were revealed to be a limited understanding of government e‐waste policies and laws, weak program implementation and insufficient e‐waste and recovery facilities. Although opportunities include promoting proper sorting, monitoring practices and sustaining the 3Rs, based on the results of the study, to achieve environmental justice and translate it into praxis (i.e., action and reflection), the study recommends enhanced training and EducAction, policy to praxis, and improved infrastructure, facilities and resources.
Relationship of left piriform cortex network centrality with temporal lobe epilepsy duration and drug resistance
Authors: Zahnert Felix , Reichert Paul , Linka Louise , Timmermann Lars , Kemmling André , Grote Alexander , Nimsky Christopher , Menzler Katja , Belke Marcus , Knake Susanne
Published: February 2025

Background

We investigated the relationship of piriform cortex (PC) structural network centrality with drug resistance and epilepsy duration as markers of sustained epileptic activity.

Methods

PCs were manually delineated on retrospectively collected 3D‐T1‐MRI images of patients with temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE). Connectomes were computed from diffusion MRI scans, including the PC as network nodes. Betweenness centrality (BC) and node degree were computed and compared across drug‐resistant versus drug‐sensitive patients. Correlations of centrality metrics with the duration of epilepsy were calculated.

Results

Sixty‐two patients (36 females, 43/62 drug‐resistant) were included in the main analysis. Greater centrality of the left PC was associated with drug resistance (degree: p = 0.00696, d = 0.85; BC: p = 0.00859, d = 0.59; alpha = 0.0125). Furthermore, left PC centrality was correlated with epilepsy duration (degree: rho = 0.39, p = 0.00181; BC: rho = 0.35, p = 0.0047; alpha = 0.0125). Results were robust to analysis of different parcellation schemes. Exploratory whole‐network analysis yielded the largest effects in the left PC. Finer parcellations showed stronger effects for both analyses in the left olfactory cortex rostral to PC. In 28 subjects who had received epilepsy surgery, a trend of smaller centrality in patients with ILAE I outcome was observed in this area.

Conclusions

We demonstrated an increased centrality of the left PC in patients with drug‐resistant TLE, which was also associated with the epilepsy duration. Recurring seizures over long periods may lead to changes of network properties of the PC. Large effects immediately rostral to our delineated PC region suggest a role of olfactory cortex anterior to the limen insulae in epileptogenic networks.
Effect on mechanical and microbiological properties of adding calcium glycerophosphate and xylitol to glass ionomer cement
Authors: de Azevedo Santana Juliana , de Lima Navarro Maria Fidela , Gomes Leonardo Fernandes , Brighenti Fernanda Lourenção , de Oliveira Analú Barros , Fernandes Gabriela Leal Peres , Nunes Gabriel Pereira , Danelon Marcelle
Published: February 2025

This study aimed to evaluate the effect on the mechanical and microbiological properties of incorporating calcium glycerophosphate (CaGP) and/or xylitol into resin modified glass ionomer cement (RMGIC). Six experimental cements were tested: i) RMGIC without additions; and RMGIC with ii) 5% xylitol; iii) 10% xylitol; iv) 3% CaGP; v) 3% CaGP and 5% xylitol, or vi) 3% CaGP and 10% xylitol. The compressive strength, diametral tensile strength and surface hardness were determined (24 h and 7 days). Antimicrobial/antibiofilm activity was evaluated. Compressive strength values after 24 h for +3% CaGP & 5% xylitol were higher and similar to RMGIC. After 7 days, +3% CaGP & 5% xylitol presented the highest compressive strength values. The +3% CaGP & 10% xylitol showed the lowest values of diametral tensile strength values (24 h). The RMGIC with +3% CaGP & 5% xylitol showed the highest diametral tensile strength (7 days). The surface hardness (24 h) were highest for the RMGIC and +10% xylitol. After 7 days, +3% CaGP & 5% xylitol showed the highest value. The +3% CaGP & 5% xylitol or +3% CaGP & 10% xylitol showed the lowest levels of microbial/biofilm formation. The addition of CaGP/xylitol promoted improved the mechanical and antibacterial properties of RMGIC.
Bond mutual fund performance: Evidence from the skill ratio and false discovery rate
Authors: Huang Lifa , Lee Wayne Y. , Rennie Craig G.
Published: February 2025

This paper applies a Skill Ratio under a False Discovery Rate (FDR) framework to bond mutual funds showing many bonds mutual fund managers are skilled primarily to the benefit of fund sponsors. Our Skill Ratio is the t‐statistic of realized gross value added based on investible Morningstar benchmark‐adjusted monthly returns times the natural logarithm of assets under management (AUM). We apply a new simulation process for FDR that mitigates small sample bias and mis‐discovery on tails. For 571 actively managed domestic bond mutual fund managers between 1999 and 2016, 28.7% are skilled, including 36.3% of 226 corporate funds and 17.3% of 345 government funds.
Varying Thermal Dependence of Life History Traits Predicts Responses to Environmental Change in Aquatic Amphibian Larvae
Authors: Tahalová Kamila , Šugerková Monika , Gvoždík Lumír
Published: February 2025

Many organisms respond to environmental changes through plastic modifications of their phenotypes. While phenotypic plasticity has been extensively studied in response to single factors in laboratory settings, organisms in nature face the combined effects of diverse biotic and abiotic stressors. These multistressor effects complicate predictions about the impact of environmental changes on population dynamics. One approach to improving predictive accuracy is to identify common mechanistic links to variations in life‐history traits. In this study, we examined how biotic and abiotic stressors influence life‐history variation, using predictions based on the differing thermal sensitivities of differentiation and growth rates in aquatic amphibian larvae and their subsequent impact on the behaviour of terrestrial juveniles.

Using a mesocosm experiment, we exposed larvae of two sympatric newt species, Ichthyosaura alpestris and Lissotriton vulgaris, to combinations of a biotic factor (the presence of heterospecifics) and an abiotic factor (simulated drying).

Our results revealed that simulated drying increased the availability of high water temperatures, thereby shortening the larval period as predicted by the high thermal sensitivity of differentiation rates. The presence of heterospecifics, not drying regime, increased the size at emergence in the larger species, I. alpestris, consistent with the relatively low thermal sensitivity of growth rates. The impact of drying carried over to the terrestrial juveniles, affecting their covered distance in both taxa, while the presence of heterospecifics influenced maximum voluntary speed during exploratory behaviour in I. alpestris juveniles.

This suggests that the additive effects of biotic and abiotic factors on subsets of life‐history and behavioural traits combine at the individual level, depending on species identity.

Future research should focus on the interplay between ecologically‐realistic thermal conditions and species interactions within pond larval assemblages to understand the impact of environmental changes on amphibian population dynamics.
Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Lateral Carbon Dynamics at an Eroding Yedoma Permafrost Site in Siberia (Duvanny Yar)
Authors: Keskitalo Kirsi H. , Bröder Lisa , Jong Dirk J. , Mann Paul J. , Tesi Tommaso , Davydova Anna , Zimov Nikita , Haghipour Negar , Eglinton Timothy I. , Vonk Jorien E.
Published: February 2025

Rapid Arctic warming is accelerating permafrost thaw and mobilizing previously frozen organic carbon (OC) into waterways. Upon thaw, permafrost‐derived OC can become susceptible to microbial degradation that may lead to greenhouse gas emissions (GHG), thus accelerating climate change. Abrupt permafrost thaw (e.g., riverbank erosion, retrogressive thaw slumps) occurs in areas rich in OC. Given the high OC content and the increase in frequency of abrupt thaw events, these environments may increasingly contribute to permafrost GHG emissions in the future. To better assess these emissions from abrupt permafrost thaw, we incubated thaw stream waters from an abrupt permafrost thaw site (Duvanny Yar, Siberia) and additionally, waters from their outflow to the Kolyma River. Our results show that CO2 release by volume from thaw streams was substantially higher than CO2 emissions from the river outflow waters, while the opposite was true for CO2 release normalized to the suspended sediment weight (gram dry weight). The CH4 emissions from both thaw streams and outflow waters were at a similar range, but an order of magnitude lower than those of CO2. Additionally, we show that nearshore riverbank waters differ in their biogeochemistry from thaw streams and Kolyma River mainstem: particles resemble thaw streams while dissolved fraction is more alike to the Kolyma River thalweg. In these waters dissolved OC losses are faster than in the river thalweg. Our incubations offer a first insight into the GHG release from permafrost thaw streams that connect exposed and degrading permafrost outcrops to larger river systems.
Understanding the Catch‐Up Innovation in China: A Perspective of Local Government Competition
Authors: Guo Jin , Wei Zhi , Xu Yingzhi
Published: February 2025

This paper delves into the phenomenon of catch‐up innovation in China, examining it through the institutional framework of local government innovation competition. Our theoretical modeling indicates that in order to perform well in performance appraisals and obtain a greater probability of promotion, local governments tend to implement excessive policy incentives, ultimately sparking an intense competition for innovation among regions in China. Empirical analyses corroborate the effectiveness of supportive policies in fostering local innovation. Nonetheless, excessive policy intervention has exhibited a propensity to stifle local innovation performance. In the spatial dimension, regional innovation competition demonstrates notable positive spatial effects, while the potential negative spatial effects of excessive competition have yet to emerge. By scrutinizing the influence of regional innovation competition on patent knowledge width and patent types, we conclude that regional innovation competition is unlikely to alleviate the issue of low‐quality innovation in China. Consequently, this paper advocates for the urgent enhancement of the official evaluation system by incorporating indicators pertaining to innovation quality, thereby amplifying the positive impact of regional innovation competition on patent quality. Simultaneously, the official evaluation system should remain vigilant against the detrimental effects of excessive competition and facilitate the transition from regional innovation competition to regional innovation cooperation through the optimization of local government behavior.
Factor VIII Activity and Factor VIII Inhibitors Can Be Measured Accurately in Plasma Containing Mim8 by Using Specific Chromogenic Assays
Authors: Pickering William , Robinson Mary , Cogswell Caroline , Clausen Wan Hui Ong , Weldingh Karin Nana , Ezban Mirella
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Patients with Haemophilia A treated with Mim8 may require concomitant Factor VIII (FVIII) replacement; hence, accurate assessment of FVIII activity (FVIII:C) and FVIII inhibitors in the presence of Mim8 is important.

Aim

Assess which chromogenic substrate assays (CSAs) accurately monitor FVIII:C and FVIII inhibitor levels in the presence of Mim8.

Methods

FVIII and Mim8 were spiked into congenital FVIII‐deficient plasma to obtain mixtures containing various FVIII:C levels (0–100 IU/dL) and Mim8 concentrations (0, 3, 6 and 12 µg/mL). Five CSAs using different activated Factor IX and X sources (bovine, bovine–human or human) were used to measure FVIII:C. Bovine and bovine–human CSAs were then used to measure FVIII:C of standard half‐life (SHL) and extended half‐life (EHL) FVIII products. FVIII inhibitor levels were assessed using two different bovine CSAs in congenital FVIII‐deficient plasma spiked with various Mim8 concentrations (5, 10, 20 and 40 µg/mL) and FVIII inhibitor levels (0.2, 1.0 and 4.8 BU).

Results

High levels of interference were observed using human CSAs. Bovine CSAs accurately measured FVIII:C of SHL and EHL FVIII products in the presence of Mim8 without interference. In bovine–human CSAs, interference was observed at 5 IU/dL FVIII, increasing up to four‐fold with increasing Mim8 levels. FVIII inhibitor levels were accurately measured using bovine CSAs without Mim8 interference.

Conclusion

FVIII:C of SHL and EHL products and FVIII inhibitor levels can be accurately monitored in the presence of Mim8 using bovine CSAs at all FVIII levels, and bovine–human CSAs at FVIII concentrations >20 IU/dL.
Registry‐Based Surveillance of Severe Acute Respiratory Infections in Norway During 2021–2024
Authors: Seppälä Elina , Bøås Håkon , Dahl Jesper , Stålcrantz Jeanette , Stecher Melanie , Tønnessen Ragnhild , Rø Gunnar Øyvind Isaksson , Kløvstad Hilde , Paulsen Trine Hessevik
Published: February 2025

Background

In 2021, the Norwegian Institute of Public Health established temporary registry‐based surveillance of severe acute respiratory infections (SARI). We aimed to describe the surveillance system and evaluate selected attributes to inform the establishment of a permanent SARI surveillance system.

Methods

SARI cases were defined using ICD‐10 discharge codes from national health and administrative registries, including codes for acute upper or lower respiratory infection (URI and LRI), COVID‐19, acute respiratory distress syndrome, pertussis or otitis media. Data from polymerase chain reaction (PCR) analyses were available for 10 respiratory pathogens including SARS‐CoV‐2, influenza virus and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). We included data from 28 September 2020 to 31 March 2024 and calculated the following parameters: the proportion of cases tested for SARS‐CoV‐2, influenza virus and/or RSV; time between admission and registration of a SARI‐related ICD‐10 code; and proportion of cases with URI, LRI and COVID‐19.

Results

We identified 214,730 SARI cases, of whom 82%, 73% and 53% were tested for SARS‐CoV‐2, influenza virus and RSV. Case peaks were predominantly driven by one or a combination of these pathogens. Median time between admission and a registered SARI diagnostic code was 5 (lower–upper quartile 3–10) days. Nowcasting and alternative case definitions for SARI with COVID‐19, influenza and RSV improved the timeliness. The ICD‐10 codes for LRIs and COVID‐19 captured only ~55% of the cases in the age group of 0–29 years compared to the routine case definition, where URIs were included.

Conclusions

Registry‐based SARI surveillance provides timely data for handling epidemics of respiratory infections in Norway. We recommend establishing a permanent SARI surveillance system.
Streamflow Intervals Prediction Using Coupled Autoregressive Conditionally Heteroscedastic With Bootstrap Model
Authors: Bickici Bugrayhan , Beyaztas Beste Hamiye , Yaseen Zaher Mundher , Beyaztas Ufuk , Kahya Ercan
Published: February 2025

Streamflow (Qflow) process is one of the complex stochastic processes in the hydrology cycle owing to its associated non‐linearity and non‐stationarity characteristics. It is an essential hydrological process to address the complex time series nonlinear phenomena. In this research, a novel approach was proposed by integrating an autoregressive conditionally heteroscedastic (ARCH) method with bootstrap model to predict future Qflow intervals. For this purpose, two Qflow series located at the Eastern Black Sea basin (Turkey) were subjected to the application of the proposed methodology. Among other regression and machine learning (ML) models, which are suitable for Qflow modeling, the autoregressive integrated moving average (ARIMA), seasonal autoregressive integrated moving average (SARIMA), and artificial neural network (ANN) were selected for modeling validation in this study. A group of three numerical metrics and graphical presentations were used for the modeling evaluation and assessment. The proposed ARCH approach performed a superior mathematical model to address the Qflow interval prediction. Remarkable prediction accuracy was shown against the benchmark models. Overall, the approach of coupling the bootstrap procedure with the ARCH model exhibited a robust modeling strategy for predicting Qflow intervals suggested as a new analysis tool.