bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Risk Factors of CVD in Different Ethnic Groups in Kyrgyzstan
Authors: Azfar Hossain Syed , Ibrahim Muiz , Dzhusupov Kenesh , Orru Hans , Villa Inga , Orru Kati
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of mortality in Kyrgyzstan. The study aimed to explore the CVD prevalence depending on various risk factors across diverse ethnic groups in Kyrgyzstan.

Materials and Methods

A cross‐sectional study was carried out among six ethnic groups in Kyrgyzstan, aged 18 years and above. The sample was stratified for age, education, family status, and income. We used a questionnaire with 47 questions to explore the health status, behavior and lifestyle determinants, and prevalence of CVD. We used the chi‐square test to investigate differences between groups, and ANCOVA to determine differences between mean scores on analyzed variables. Logistic regression was used to analyze the relationship between independent and dependent variables. Confounding variables were only included if they correlated with both the independent and dependent variables. Interaction analyses were conducted with logistic regression to investigate if there were any differences between the nationalities in the relationships between the independent and dependent variables.

Results

Our study confirmed that the CVD prevalence across diverse ethnic groups can be significantly different: In Kyrgyzstan, the most disadvantaged groups in this context were East European and the least—Western Asian. There was no difference between studied groups found in the ethnicity‐stratified prevalence of such CVD risk factors as low fruit and vegetable consumption, alcohol intake, smoking, and body mass index (BMI). There was no statistically significant association between educational attainment and CVD risk markers within the studied ethnic groups. The analysis of ethnicity‐stratified prevalence of CVD risk markers resulted in a significant difference in physical activity across ethnicity groups.

Conclusion

The study results provided an understanding of the ethnicity‐stratified prevalence of CVD risk markers in the population in Kyrgyzstan. They could serve as instrumental in tailoring targeted public health interventions to address the burden of CVDs in specific subpopulations.
Molecular Structure and Mass Spectral Data Quality–Driven Processing of High‐Resolution Mass Spectrometry for Quantitative Analysis
Authors: Fontaine Fabien , Morettoni Luca , Anderson Ken , Choi Bernard , Zamora Ismael , Bateman Kevin P.
Published: February 2025

Rationale

LC‐MS‐based quantification is traditionally performed using selected or multiple reaction monitoring (SRM/MRM) acquisition functions on triple quadrupole (QQQ) instruments resulting in both high sensitivity and selectivity. This workflow requires a previously identified reaction or transition from a precursor ion to a fragment ion to be monitored to obtain the needed selectivity for the compound of interest. High‐resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS) has long sought to be a viable alternative for quantitatipve workflows but has been unable to broadly compete, mainly due to the lack of suitable data processing software.

Methods

The approach we developed agnostically and automatically identifies all ions related to the compound being analyzed in both the MS and MSMS data, acquired with data‐dependent or data‐independent methods. The algorithm automatically selects optimal parameters (ion extraction window, ions to sum, etc.) to provide the best overall method to meet the acceptance criteria defined by the user (accuracy/precision).

Results

The results obtained are directly compared to QQQ data collected from the same set of samples and show that the automated HRMS approach is as good as and, in some cases, better than the traditional QQQ approach in terms of selectivity, sensitivity, and dynamic range.

Conclusions

This new methodology enables the use of generic methods for data collection for quantitative analysis using high‐resolution mass spectrometry. With this approach, data collection is faster, and the processing algorithm provides quality equal to or better than the current QQQ methodology. This enables an overall reduction in cycle time and improved assay performance versus current HRMS‐based quantitative analysis as well as traditional QQQ workflows.
Neuroadaptive Impulsive Control of a Class of Uncertain Nonlinear Systems
Authors: Lin Ming , Luo Zhen‐Fa , Tao Jie , Li Jun‐Yi , Liu Yong‐Hua
Published: February 2025

This paper addresses the tracking control problem for a class of uncertain nonlinear systems, offering a neuroadaptive impulsive control solution with fast weight convergence. The proposed control architecture uniquely employs radial basis function neural networks (RBFNNs) to approximate unknown system dynamics, where the neural network (NN) weight estimator is updated at each impulsive instant. Unlike existing neuroadaptive controllers, this method quickly identifies unknown dynamics without inducing high‐frequency oscillations due to the impulse update of the NN weight estimator, thereby improving the transient performance of the closed‐loop system. Leveraging the Lyapunov stability theory for impulsive dynamical systems, this paper rigorously establishes the semi‐global uniform ultimate boundedness (SGUUB) of all closed‐loop system signals. Finally, validation through simulation studies substantiates the efficacy of the proposed neuroadaptive impulsive controller.
Dynamic Event‐Triggered Adaptive Neural Network Control for Stochastic Nonholonomic Uncertain Systems
Authors: Du Qinghui , Wang Sitian , Zhu Quanxin
Published: February 2025

In this article, we construct a dynamic event‐triggered adaptive control strategy for a class of stochastic nonholonomic uncertain systems. The dynamic event‐triggered mechanism can make the threshold adjustable, which is firstly considered for stochastic nonholonomic uncertain systems to conserve communication resources. We propose a state‐input scaling transformation that converts the stochastic nonholonomic uncertain systems into a new form that facilitates controller design. By introducing a novel auxiliary dynamic variable to design a dynamic event‐triggered mechanism (DETM) and defining a suitable parameter, we propose a new dynamic event‐triggered adaptive neural network controller, which contains only one adaptive law. It is shown that the proposed control strategy can greatly reduce the computational complexity and communication burden, and the input‐to‐state stability (ISS) assumption is no longer needed. Simultaneously, all signals in the closed‐loop system are ensured to be uniformly ultimately bounded (UUB) in probability. Then, the uncontrollability phenomenon is eliminated by constructing an adaptive event‐triggered control‐based switching strategy. In addition, the efficacy of the proposed controller is demonstrated through simulation results.
“I Want Them to Feel Alegría”: Rhetorical Contextual Languaging as Critical Translingual Assemblages
Authors: Zapata Angie
Published: February 2025

In this article, the author explores rhetorical contextual languaging (as it relates to writing) as critical translingual assemblages of material ecologies↔affectual solidarities. Situated in the scholarship on critical translingual literacies, affect, and assemblage theory, two data‐theory intervals are featured as exemplars. Data are drawn from global sociopolitical movements and from one Midwest U.S. classroom of adolescent youth enacting multilingual, multimodal, and material literacies. For each interval presented, the author thinks with theory‐data to animate the critical translingual assemblages that are produced among writers of diverse racial and linguistic backgrounds, their shared affects and solidarities, and the material landscapes in which they are immersed. She concludes by discussing critical translingual assemblages as an ontological shift in multilingual writing research and as liberatory pedagogies that resist separating writers from the rhetorical contextual languaging and sensations demanded of translingual writing/processes.
Instability of the AUROC of Clinical Prediction Models
Authors: van Leeuwen Florian D. , Steyerberg Ewout W. , van Klaveren David , Wessler Ben , Kent David M. , van Zwet Erik W.
Published: February 2025

Background

External validations are essential to assess the performance of a clinical prediction model (CPM) before deployment. Apart from model misspecification, also differences in patient population, the standard of care, predictor definitions, and other factors influence a model's discriminative ability, as commonly quantified by the AUC (or c‐statistic). We aimed to quantify the variation in AUCs across sets of external validation studies and propose ways to adjust expectations of a model's performance in a new setting.

Methods

The Tufts‐PACE CPM Registry holds a collection of CPMs for prognosis in cardiovascular disease. We analyzed the AUC estimates of 469 CPMs with at least one external validation. Combined, these CPMs had a total of 1603 external validations reported in the literature. For each CPM and its associated set of validation studies, we performed a random‐effects meta‐analysis to estimate the between‐study standard deviation among the AUCs. Since the majority of these meta‐analyses have only a handful of validations, this leads to very poor estimates of . So, instead of focusing on a single CPM, we estimated a log‐normal distribution of across all 469 CPMs. We then used this distribution as an empirical prior. We used cross‐validation to compare this empirical Bayesian approach with frequentist fixed and random‐effects meta‐analyses.

Results

The 469 CPMs included in our study had a median of 2 external validations with an IQR of [1–3]. The estimated distribution of had a mean of 0.055 and a standard deviation of 0.015. If = 0.05, then the 95% prediction interval for the AUC in a new setting has a width of at least 0.1, no matter how many validations have been done. When there are fewer than 5 validations, which is typically the case, the usual frequentist methods grossly underestimate the uncertainty about the AUC in a new setting. Accounting for in a Bayesian approach achieved near nominal coverage.

Conclusion

Due to large heterogeneity among the validated AUC values of a CPM, there is great irreducible uncertainty in predicting the AUC in a new setting. This uncertainty is underestimated by existing methods. The proposed empirical Bayes approach addresses this problem which merits wide application in judging the validity of prediction models.
Cognitive Emotion‐Regulation and Depressive Symptoms in a Group of Healthcare Workers During the COVID‐19 Pandemic: A Person‐Based Approach
Authors: Zhou Ting , Lin Zihe , Sha Sha , Tian Tengfei , Liang Sixiang , Zhou Li , Wang Qian
Published: February 2025

This study aimed to identify profiles of cognitive emotion regulation strategies and to examine the association between emotion regulation profiles and depressive symptoms using a sample of healthcare workers under the impact of COVID‐19. A total of 3477 Chinese healthcare workers participated in the online survey. Latent profile analysis was used to identify cognitive regulation patterns using nine strategies. Depressive symptoms were compared among cognitive regulation patterns. The results yielded three cognitive emotion regulation patterns: regulators with low controllability of emotions and events (RLCEE, 65.5%), regulators with high controllability of emotions and events (RHCEE, 33.0%) and high regulators (HR, 5.4%). The HRs reported the highest level of depression symptoms, followed by the RHCEEs and RLCEEs. The results illustrated a significant association between depressive symptoms and emotion regulation profiles in healthcare workers under the impact of the COVID‐19 pandemic.
Defending knowledge abroad
Authors: Berry Heather , Donnelly Róisín
Published: February 2025

Research Summary

This article analyzes how innovation country‐of‐origin impacts the decisions of multinational corporations (MNCs) to defend their patents against infringement in foreign countries. We argue that MNCs have stronger incentives to defend their locally generated innovations (in foreign countries) than their home‐ or third‐country generated innovations (that have been transferred to foreign countries) because of the higher risk for knowledge spillovers for locally generated innovations. We also explore whether a higher level of multimarket overlap in knowledge activities with industry rivals increases MNC decisions to defend their best innovations. We examine data on infringement cases brought by foreign firms operating in the United States and find results consistent with our expectations. Additionally, when split by patents' country‐of‐origin, our findings reveal several interesting differences.

Managerial Summary

This article examines how several characteristics of firm innovations influence knowledge spillover risks and the decisions of MNCs to defend their patents against infringement in foreign countries. We argue that locally generated patents and those patents that are more important (in terms of value and usage) or more exposed to rivals are more likely to be defended against infringement in foreign countries. Using data on firms in high tech industries and their patent infringement cases, we show support for our arguments while also revealing several interesting differences across the litigation decisions of MNCs when considering the patents' country‐of‐orign.
Carbon Nanocoils‐Assisted Formation of Tunable Pore Graphene Aerogels for Lightweight Broadband Microwave Absorption, Thermal Insulation, and Antifreeze Devices
Authors: Guo Yuan , Duan Yuping , Gu Shude , Liu Xiaoji , Fan Zeng , Pang Huifang , Pan Lujun
Published: February 2025

The rational design of the aerogel pore structure facilitates the maximum excitation of the materials physicochemical properties, which enables the modulation of their electromagnetic performance. However, the controllable adjustment of the aerogel pore structure remains a significant challenge. Here, the freeze‐thawing process and thermal annealing treatment are introduced to prepare reduced graphene oxide (rGO)/iron (Fe)/carbon nanocoil (CNC) aerogels. The composite aerogels with tunable pore structure are obtained by adjusting the content of CNC. Both experiments and simulations confirm that the pore structure with the addition of CNC presents a continuous 3D conductive network, which improves the conductivity loss and polarization loss. Meanwhile, the amorphous carbon structure within the CNC causes structural defects, which further enhance the polarization loss. Therefore, the rGO/Fe/CNC aerogel with optimized pore structure has lightweight and efficient electromagnetic wave absorption. At an ultra‐low filling ratio of 0.8 wt%, the effective absorption bandwidth reaches 7.9 GHz and the optimal reflection loss is −43.5 dB. In addition, due to the 3D continuous network interwoven of aerogels and the temperature stability of carbon nanomaterials, composite aerogels have excellent thermal insulation, antifreeze performance, and hydrophobicity. This multifunctional absorber has great potential for application in complex and changing electromagnetic environments.
Computational Approaches for Designing Heterostructured Electrocatalysts
Authors: Kim Miyeon , Shim Kyu In , Han Jeong Woo
Published: February 2025

Electrocatalysts for oxidation and reduction reactions are crucial for sustainable energy production and carbon reduction. While precious metal catalysts exhibit superior activity, reducing reliance on them is necessary for large‐scale applications. To address this, transition metal‐based catalysts are studied with strategies to enhance catalytic performance. One promising strategy is heterostructures, which integrate multiple materials to harness synergistic effects. Developing efficient heterostructured electrocatalysts requires understanding their intricate characteristics, which poses challenges. While in situ and operando spectroscopy provides insights, computational materials science is essential for capturing reaction mechanisms, analyzing the origins at the atomic scale, and efficiently exploring innovative heterostructures. Despite growing recognition of computational materials science, standardized criteria for these systems remain lacking. This review consolidates case studies to propose approaches for modeling and analyzing heterostructures. It categorizes heterostructure types into vertical, semivertical, and lateral, defines their characteristics, and propose insights into minimizing or exploiting strain effects from lattice mismatches. Furthermore, it summarizes computational analyses of heterostructure stability and activity across reactions, including oxygen evolution, hydrogen evolution, oxygen reduction, carbon dioxide reduction, nitrogen reduction, and urea oxidation. This review provides an overview to refine heterostructure designs and establish a framework for systematic modeling and analysis to develop efficient electrocatalysts.
Fabrication of QLED Devices with Designable Patterns via Regulating the Carrier Transport Behavior
Authors: Fan Junpeng , Nie Lintao , Tan Fangchang , Shen Piaoyang , Wu Zhijun , Han Changfeng , Qian Lei , Zhang Ting , Xiang Chaoyu
Published: February 2025

The burgeoning advancements in near‐eye display devices intensify attention to ultra‐high‐resolution display technology. Due to the outstanding properties including high color purity, low turn‐on voltage, solution processability, etc., quantum dot light‐emitting diodes (QLEDs) are among the most promising candidates for next‐generation displays. This study proposes a novel strategy to construct QLED devices with designable patterns by adjusting the energy level alignment and corresponding carrier transport behavior. As a proof‐of‐concept, patterned hole injection layers (HIL) based on photosensitive poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(4‐styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) composite are prepared by direct photolithography. Noteworthily, the red QLED devices with optimized photolithographic HIL exhibit an increased external quantum efficiency, from 17.2% to 18.4%, and an extended operational lifetime (T95 at 1,000 cd m−2), from 471 to 827 h. Subsequently, three primary color QLED devices with above 3,300 DPI (dot per inch) are successfully achieved by utilizing pixelated HIL, paving the technical foundation for developing ultra‐high resolution QLED displays.
Ultrasound Activated Piezoelectric Catalysis and Neurogenic Activity for Effective Therapy of MRSA Infected Bone Defects by Phase/Defect‐Engineered Barium Strontium Titanate
Authors: Xu Yan , Xu Chao , Xie Mao , Lei Jie , Ma Liang , Duan Deyu , Tan Lei , Wu Shuilin , Yang Cao , Feng Xiaobo
Published: February 2025

Infected bone defects are a growing global health issue, with risks including bone destruction, disability, and even death. The main clinical challenge is the difficulty in simultaneously achieving effective antibacterial action and promoting bone regeneration. Calcination at 800°C induces a phase transition from cubic (C‐BSTO) to polarized tetragonal (T‐BSTO), imparting piezoelectric properties. Subsequent treatment with sodium borohydride generates oxygen vacancies, enhancing polarization and piezoelectric performance. The synthesized T‐BSTO‐Vo achieves 99.83% antibacterial efficiency against methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) under 1.5 W cm² ultrasound (US) irradiation for 20 min. Mild US irradiation activates a piezoelectric signal, promoting Schwann cell (SC) neurogenic differentiation via PI3K‐AKT signaling and intracellular Ca²⁺ elevation. Further studies showed that the synergy of the neurotransmitter of SCs and piezoelectric electric signal increased the osteogenic differentiation of human bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs). Consequently, US‐irradiated T‐BSTO‐Vo effectively promotes the innervated bone regeneration in the MRSA‐infected bone defect model through rapidly killing bacteria, modulating the immune microenvironment. This study offers a new approach for developing bioactive sonosensitizers through phase/defect engineering, and treats MRSA‐infected bone defects through enhanced piezocatalytic effect and innervated bone regeneration.
Utilization of Non‐Metallic Inclusion to Induce Intragranular Acicular Ferrite Formation Contributing to “Oxide Metallurgy”: Effect of Ti/Al Content on the Microstructure Evolution
Authors: Cai Chen , Mu Wangzhong
Published: February 2025

Non‐metallic inclusion is generally aimed to be removed during the refining process of steel production. The steelmakers always intend to produce clean steel to optimize the final product properties. However, the fine size inclusion is hard to remove completely; alternatively, it could be served as the nucleation site to induce the formation of intragranular acicular ferrite (IAF). This is an optimal microstructure with the “interlock” morphology and has been reported to be able to improve mechanical property, e.g., low‐temperature impact toughness, according to the concept of “oxide metallurgy.” In this work, the low‐alloy steels with different amounts of Ti and Al contents are prepared, and the inclusion characteristics (i.e., composition, size, distribution, etc.) are quantitatively investigated. Furthermore, high‐temperature confocal laser scanning microscopy is applied to observe the IAF formation in situ with controlled isothermal holding and cooling conditions. The effect of nature of inclusions on IAF formation is investigated in the proposed steels. Subsequently, the theoretical model according to classical nucleation theory is utilized to evaluate the capability of different kinds of inclusions to induce IAF. Last but not least, the microstructure features in different steels are also investigated.
openBIM – IFC in der Stahlbaufertigung
Authors: Jung Victoria , Häfele Karl‐Heinz , Geiger Andreas , Huhn Michael , Stiegeler Stefan , Brell‐Çokcan Sigrid
Published: February 2025

Um die Fertigungsprozesse im Stahlbau transparenter und durchgängiger zu gestalten und damit auch Optimierungspotenziale zu heben, ist ein ganzheitliches Datenmodell notwendig, das möglichst alle Lebensphasen des Bauwerks abbilden kann. Die bisher von DSTV‐Schnittstellen abgebildete Funktionalität deckt jedoch lediglich einen kleinen Teil davon ab. Im Gegensatz dazu liegt mit dem IFC‐Datenmodell (Industry Foundation Classes) ein ganzheitliches Bauwerksmodell vor, das alle Lebenszyklusphasen unterstützen soll. Mit dem Exchange Module 11 (EM11) hat das American Institute of Steel Construction (AISC) einen ersten Schritt unternommen, Fertigungsdaten per IFC weiterzugeben. Mit den neuen erweiterten Möglichkeiten der aktuellen IFC‐Version 4×3 hat bauforumstahl e. V. auf der Basis von EM11 einen weiterführenden Ansatz entwickelt, um Fertigungsdaten im Stahlbau austauschen und im Lebenszyklus verfügbar halten zu können. Die hier vorgestellte Arbeit diskutiert kurz die bestehenden Möglichkeiten des Datenaustauschs, beschreibt zukünftige Anwendungsszenarien, skizziert die Umsetzung der Anforderungen in IFC und schließt mit ersten Validierungen anhand eines Demonstrators ab.
“Revolutionizing Cancer Treatment: The Role of Starch‐Based Nanoparticles in Targeted Therapy”
Authors: Kapoor Devesh U. , Patel Geeta , Prajapati Bhupendra G.
Published: February 2025

The biocompatible and biodegradable polysaccharide starch is a great platform for the development of nanoparticles (NPs). Due to its special qualities, which include high stability, low toxicity, and ease of modification, it is a desirable option for the administration of anticancer drugs. Targeted cancer therapy has found a potential carrier in starch‐based nanoparticles (SNPs). SNPs can be functionalized with ligands to target cancer cells in particular. These ligands allow for targeted medication delivery by identifying overexpressed receptors on tumor surfaces. SNPs have been studied in relation to chemotherapeutics, siRNAs, and photothermal treatments, among other anticancer agents. They are also used in combination therapy, where their combined targeting of cancer cells improves treatment outcomes. SNPs in cancer treatment are being evaluated in a number of clinical trials. These trials evaluate patient outcomes, safety, and efficacy and offer important information for potential future uses. Regulatory bodies closely monitor various treatments based on NPs. Clinical translation requires an understanding of their safety profiles, biodistribution, and clearance mechanisms. In this review, we examine the potential of SNPs to enhance anticancer medication delivery and treatment efficacy through drug targeting.
Research on size effect of Z‐shaped shear interface at the interface between new–old concrete
Authors: Wu Erjun , Wang Yonghao , Hu Yuqing , Liu Qian , Wang Zilu , Lu Ruhao
Published: February 2025

Ignoring the size effect of shear strength at the interface between new–old concrete in the design of structural reinforcement and retrofitting projects will significantly overestimate the structural load‐bearing capacity, leading to safety hazards. Based on the shear tests of Z‐shaped new–old concrete interface specimens with three groups of 11 different interface treatment methods and different lateral restraint conditions, as well as one monolithic Z‐shaped concrete specimen, the shear‐slip curves of each specimen were measured. The experiments showed that the shear strength of the unconstrained new–old concrete interface was 0.25 to 0.50 times that of the monolithic specimen, and the section shear strength of the specimens without prestressed screw restraints increased by an average of 1.55 times. The cracking stress, crack propagation stress, and ultimate stress of each group of specimens exhibited a significant size effect, decreasing as the height of the shear plane increased. A calculation formula for the shear bearing capacity of the interface was proposed, and an expression for calculating the coefficient of shear strength size effect at the interface was fitted. Finally, the accuracy of the calculation formula of the interfacial shear capacity is verified by the simulation of the equivalent substitution model established by ANSYS.
Studies on Wind‐Induced Fatigue Performance of Spacer Considering Galloping of Iced Conductors in Tall and Large‐Span Transmission Tower‐Line System
Authors: Rong Kunjie , Tian Li , Wang Xiaoyang , Fan Yuan , Li Na
Published: February 2025

To investigate the influence of galloping on the fatigue performance of spacers in iced transmission lines, this study developed a coupled finite element model of a transmission tower‐quad‐bundled conductor‐spacer, along with a wind field model for quad‐bundled iced transmission lines, and the corresponding galloping loads are generated. A fatigue analysis method for spacers is proposed, and its fatigue performance and life under galloping conditions are assessed. Moreover, the influence of iced thickness and shape on spacer fatigue performance are analyzed. Results show that spacers connected to interphase spacers are most prone to fatigue damage during galloping. For crescent‐shaped iced, the highest fatigue damage occurs at a 10 mm iced thickness, 90° wind attack angle, and 10 m/s wind speed, with an average fatigue life of about 20 days. Dangerous spacers are located at the middle phase conductor for crescent, fan, and D‐shaped iced, with the most unfavorable wind attack angles being 90°, 0°, and 60°, and fatigue life of 13.35, 21.66, and 74.73 days, respectively. Spacer's fatigue damage increases with iced thickness, peaking at 10 mm. Crescent‐shaped iced causes the highest fatigue damage within the 30°–120° wind attack angle range, followed by fan‐shaped and D‐shaped iced. At 0° and 150°, fatigue damage values are similar for all iced shapes, while fan‐shaped iced results in the highest damage at 180°.
Building Word Consciousness With Bilingual Books
Authors: Kelly Laura Beth
Published: February 2025

This study explored the instructional potential of bilingual picturebooks for building word consciousness in bilingual elementary students. Word consciousness refers to knowledge about words as well as interest in and enthusiasm for learning new words. This disposition helps students build their vocabularies and learn more words from talk and text. Transcripts from 37 small‐group bilingual book club meetings with 11 Spanish‐English bilingual fourth graders revealed how discussion and translation activities related to the books supported word consciousness. Students paid close attention to words, learned how words work, and played with words. The study shows how structured talk about bilingual books can build word consciousness and thus vocabulary and comprehension.
Effect of Portulaca oleracea on Carcass Traits, Fatty Acid Composition, Meat Quality and Oxidative Stability of Arabi Lambs
Authors: Mayahi Sadegh , Chaji Morteza , Shojaeian Kamal , Jalilvand Ghasem
Published: February 2025

The aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of using Portulaca oleracea L. or Purslane (POL) as a source of plant antioxidants in the diet of fattening male lambs on carcass traits, meat quality and oxidative stability. Using POL in diets, meat colour characteristics were improved. The carcass traits such as weight and yield were improved (p < 0.05) in ration contain POL. The treatments containing POL increased the concentrations of palmitic fatty acids, alpha and gamma‐linolenic in meat (p < 0.05). The highest concentration of linoleic acid (C18:2 n‐6 trans) was observed in 15% POL treatment. Feeding the POL reduced the malondialdehyde concentration and increased the oxidative stability (p < 0.05). The results showed that POL nutrition had increased the meat quality by increasing oxidative stability, improving properties such as fatty acid composition. All of these properties, along with the increase in beneficial fatty acids in meat, have led to an increase in its nutritional value for human health.
Spontaneous haemoperitoneum secondary to mast cell neoplasia and presumed splenic abscess rupture in a cat
Authors: Collins Jenna , Levy Nyssa , Thaiwong‐Nebelung Tuddow
Published: February 2025

A geriatric feline was presented to a university teaching hospital for lethargy and inappetence. The patient was subsequently diagnosed with spontaneous haemoperitoneum secondary to rupture of a splenic mass and was taken to surgery for splenectomy following appropriate stabilisation measures. Splenic histopathology was consistent with mast cell neoplasia and multifocal areas of presumed abscessation. Routine histopathological examination of the splenic sections did not reveal overt bacterial organisms; however, Gram staining revealed low numbers of Gram‐positive long bacilli. Histopathologic evaluation also confirmed mast cell neoplasia within a submitted hepatic biopsy specimen, supportive of a diagnosis of metastatic mast cell neoplasia. This case highlights the importance of including abscess rupture as a possible cause of spontaneous haemoperitoneum in patients. Additionally, as spontaneous haemoperitoneum is infrequently reported in feline patients, this report aims to introduce a review of the general approach to managing a feline patient with haemoperitoneum.
Brucella canis in two juvenile labrador retriever littermates with no known travel history
Authors: Lord Amy , Russell Oliver , McGregor Ombeline , Dudley Robert , Hare Cassia , Skelly Barbara
Published: February 2025

Two labrador retriever littermates presented separately to investigate chronic lethargy and shifting lameness. In both cases, clinical examination revealed a multi‐limb lameness. Neither the patients nor their dam or sire had a travel history outside the UK. Imaging of the vertebral column in both cases was consistent with discospondylitis. Brucella canis serology demonstrated a rising antibody titre in Case 1 and a strong positive antibody titre in Case 2 (4+/3200), consistent with a diagnosis of B. canis. Due to concerns relating to the poor prognosis, antimicrobial stewardship and zoonotic risk, both patients were euthanased. Since 2020, the UK has seen a rise in cases of B. canis, with most cases having been in imported dogs. This case report highlights how B. canis should be considered in dogs with no travel history and identifies challenges relating to diagnosis and managing these cases in practice.
Total ear canal ablation and lateral bulla osteotomy in a ferret for the treatment of aural ceruminous gland neoplasia
Authors: Garzotto Caroline K. , Jones Jane D. , Castro Fernando , Banajee Kaikushroo H. , Villarreal Jessica
Published: February 2025

A 6‐year‐old, male, neutered domestic ferret (Mustela putorius furo) presented for mucopurulent discharge from the left ear with visible intraluminal soft tissue mass in the vertical portion of the canal on endoscopic exam. A computed tomographic exam confirmed a mass confined to the lumen of the left ear canal. A total ear canal ablation and lateral bulla osteotomy was performed. Initial histopathology diagnosed the mass as a ceruminous gland adenoma, and the ferret lived with excellent quality of life for 6 months. After 6 months, swelling around the left total ear canal ablation and lateral bulla osteotomy site was noted by the owner. Cytology of the swelling was consistent with an adenocarcinoma. This case report describes a total ear canal ablation and lateral bulla osteotomy surgery in a ferret. Total ear canal ablation and lateral bulla osteotomy was well tolerated in this patient with no long‐term complications. Aural ceruminous gland tumours in ferrets may exhibit variable behaviour and should be given a guarded prognosis.
A Multiyear CONUS‐Wide Analysis of Lightning Strikes to Wind Turbines
Authors: Said Ryan , Grimit Eric , Murphy Martin
Published: February 2025

Lightning strikes to wind turbines (WTs) pose significant hazards and operational costs to the renewable wind industry. These strikes fall into two categories: downward cloud‐to‐ground (CG) strokes and upward discharges, which can be self‐initiated or triggered by a nearby flash. The incidence of each type of strike depends on several factors, including the electrical structure of the thunderstorm and turbine height. The strike rates of CG strokes and triggered upward lightning can be normalized by the amount of local lightning activity, where the constant of proportionality carries units of area and is often termed the collection area. This paper introduces a statistical analysis technique that uses lightning locating system (LLS) data to estimate the collection areas for downward and triggered upward lightning strikes to WTs. The technique includes a normalization method that addresses the confounding factor of neighboring WTs. This analysis method is applied to 7 years of data from the National Lightning Detection Network and the US WT Database to investigate the dependence of collection areas on blade tip height. The results are compared against estimates of collection areas derived from counts of LLS‐detected CG strokes close to WTs.
Simultaneous removal of cationic and anionic dyes by highly efficient and recyclable ZIF‐67/expanded vermiculite (ZIF‐67/EV) composites
Authors: Ahmadipouya Salman , Molavi Hossein
Published: February 2025

This study focuses on the synthesis of composite materials using Zeolitic imidazolate frameworks (ZIF‐67) nanoparticles as an effective adsorbent, along with different concentrations (2–10%) of thermally expanded vermiculite (EV) as a low‐cost and natural adsorbent substrate. The pristine materials and their composites were fully characterized using XRD, FTIR, BET, SEM, zeta potential, and EDS techniques. The pseudo‐second‐order kinetic model described both organic dyes' adsorption on synthesized adsorbents. Accordingly, the calculated adsorption capacities of Congo Red (CR) and Malachite Green (MG) dyes over the synthesized adsorbents were found to be about 22.72 and 49.02 mg/g for pure EV, 100 and 100 mg/g for pure ZIF‐67, 90.91 and 100 mg/g for ZIF‐67/EV‐2, 100 and 100 mg/g for ZIF‐67/EV‐5, 95.24 and 99.01 mg/g for ZIF‐67/EV‐7, and 92.59 and 97.09 mg/g for ZIF‐67/EV‐10, respectively. The Langmuir isotherm model fits experimental isotherm data best in the studied temperature range (298–313 K). Among the synthesized adsorbent materials, the ZIF‐67/EV‐5 composite (containing 5% EV flakes) showed the highest maximum adsorption capacities of 1428.6 and 1114.2 mg/g for MG and CR dyes at pH 7 and 298 K. Moreover, it showed the highest removal efficiency (up to 99.5%) toward both cationic MG and anionic CR dyes in the binary mixture of both dyes. Finally, the regeneration and recyclability of this composite showed a 12% decrease in dye removal after five adsorption cycles. The synthesized ZIF‐67/EV composites may therefore be used as efficient and inexpensive adsorbent materials for the simultaneous removal of cationic and anionic dyes from contaminated water.

Practitioner Points

ZIF‐67/expanded vermiculite composites were synthesized and used to simultaneously remove cationic and anionic dyes from wastewater.

Kinetics, isotherms, and thermodynamics of adsorption were studied showing good removal of both dyes.

The ZIF‐67/EV‐5 composite achieved maximum adsorption capacities of 1428.6 and 1114.2 mg/g for cationic Malachite Green and anionic Congo Red dyes, respectively.

Various interactions like π‐π stacking and coordination are proposed as mechanisms of adsorption.

The composite showed good selectivity in separating dyes and maintained high removal efficiency even after 5 reuse cycles.
Crop water demand estimation and irrigation scheduling for sustainable water management and crop planning in selected watersheds of Meghalaya, India
Authors: Ronghang Ricky , Patle Ghanshyam Tikaram , Vashisht Ajay Kumar , Kusre Bharat Chandra , Jhajharia Deepak , Kumar Mukesh
Published: February 2025

Understanding crop water requirements is critical for irrigation scheduling and cropping pattern decisions in any environment. Using the CROPWAT model, a study was conducted to estimate the irrigation requirement of major crops cultivated in the humid subtropical climate of Meghalaya from 2001 to 2022 and preparing irrigation scheduling plan for the current scenario. The results showed that the annual ET0 from 2001 to 2022 at the selected station was 876.7 mm. The lowest monthly ET0 (46.8 mm) was observed in December and the highest (94 mm) was observed in March. The results also indicated that the seasonal minimum and maximum CWR for rice, maize, ginger, mustard, and potato were 462.5 and 652.2 mm, 314.6 and 455.8 mm, 673.3 and 922.9 mm, 199.8 and 413.4 mm, and 341.5 and 465.3 mm, respectively. The minimum and maximum IR for rice, maize, ginger, mustard, and potato were 152.9 and 378.8 mm, 0 and 30.2 mm, 60.1 and 255.7 mm, 0 and 193 mm, and 0 and 170.8 mm, respectively. The net irrigation requirement (NIR) and gross irrigation requirement (GIR) were calculated using the scheduling option and 70% efficiency for the preparation of the irrigation schedule. For rice (transplant), the effective rainfall partially met its water needs, requiring supplemental irrigation. Maize, Cotton, and Jute relied entirely on effective rainfall, eliminating the need for irrigation. Ginger and Mustard needed both effective rainfall and additional irrigation. These findings delivered a comprehensive understanding of the location‐specific water variations for crops in Meghalaya, vital for sustainable water resource management.

Practitioner Points

CWR are critical for irrigation scheduling and cropping pattern decisions.

FAO CROPWAT model was used for crop planning and irrigation scheduling.

The net irrigation requirement and gross irrigation requirement for hilly watershed

Comprehensive understanding of the location‐specific water variations for crops

The irrigation needs vary among different crops based on efficiency % and depletion %.
Irrigation Project and Education: A Study on Teesta Barrage Irrigation Project Area of Nilphamari, Bangladesh
Authors: Shahen Md. Abu , Momen Md. Nurul
Published: February 2025

The Government of Bangladesh established the Teesta Barrage Irrigation Project (TBIP) to ensure irrigation water supply for the farmers. This irrigation project spans three districts in the northern region of Bangladesh. The goal of this study is to investigate how the TBIP in Bangladesh affects the education of the farmer's family living in the irrigation project region. Though both qualitative (key informant interviews [KII], in‐depth interview, focus group discussion [FGD], and observation) and quantitative (survey) methodologies have been used in the study. The social survey, interview, targeted group discussions, and observations have all been applied in the study to achieve the research objectives. The results show that the irrigation project has raised agricultural output, boosted financial resources, and raised the educational standing of the farmer's family in the research areas. TBIP raises crop yield, which then improves educational attainment for the farmer's family members. The result looked at the notable improvements in the education status of the farmer's children, including increased in funding for education, increased in curiosity, and the enrollment rate in schools. Farmers have become more committed to holding parent–child conferences and providing educational materials for their kids. The study also showed that farmers in the middle and upper classes have benefited mostly from the TBIP. Conversely, lower‐level farmers did not reap the benefits from the TBIP, and there have been no improvements in their livelihoods. Due to the scarcity of water during cultivating season, due to unilateral water withdrawn by India, farmers were compelled to bear additional costs for water supply, reducing their family's educational expenditures. Therefore, the government should develop a comprehensive plan to ensure consistent water supply for crop cultivation throughout the year.
Characterization of canine tumor-infiltrating leukocyte transcriptomic signatures reveals conserved expression patterns with human osteosarcoma
Authors: Ammons Dylan T. , Harris R. Adam , Chow Lyndah , Dow Steven
Published: February 2025

Immune cells play key roles in host responses to malignant tumors. The selective pressure that immune cells elicit on tumors promotes immune escape, while tumor-associated modulation of immune cells creates an environment favorable to tumor growth and progression. In this study we used publicly available single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) data from the translationally relevant canine osteosarcoma (OS) model to compare tumor-infiltrating immune cells to circulating leukocytes. Through computational analysis we investigated the differences in cell type proportions and how the OS TME impacted infiltrating immune cell transcriptomic profiles relative to circulating leukocytes. Differential abundance analysis revealed increased proportions of follicular helper T cells, regulatory T cells, and mature regulatory dendritic cells (mregDCs) in the OS TME. Differential gene expression analysis identified exhaustion markers (LAG3, HAVCR2, PDCD1) to be upregulated in CD4 and CD8 T cells within the OS TME. Comparisons of B cell gene expression profiles revealed an enrichment of protein processing and endoplasmic reticulum pathways, suggesting infiltrating B cells were activated following tumor infiltration. Gene expression changes within myeloid cells identified increased expression of immune suppressive molecules (CD274, OSM, MSR1) in the OS TME, indicating the TME skews myeloid cells toward an immunosuppressive phenotype. Comparisons to human literature and analysis of human scRNA-seq data revealed conserved transcriptomic responses to tumor infiltration, while also identifying species differences. Overall, the analysis presented here provides new insights into how the OS TME impacts the transcriptional programs of major immune cell populations in dogs and acts as a resource for comparative immuno-oncology research.
Pharmaceutical considerations in treating neuropathic pain in athletes
Authors: Ramtin Sina , Ilyas Asif
Published: February 2025

Neuropathic pain is a complex and challenging condition that arises from abnormal processing of somatosensory information, often following nerve injury or dysfunction. Its diagnosis involves a detailed clinical history, sensory examination, and diagnostic tests such as electromyography, nerve conduction studies, and MRI to identify nerve damage or structural causes. In athletes, neuropathic pain can result from nerve entrapment syndromes, post-surgical complications, or peripheral nerve injuries, with unique challenges in pain assessment due to psychological factors and exercise-induced changes. Pharmacological management primarily includes anticonvulsants (e.g., gabapentin, pregabalin) and antidepressants (e.g., tricyclics, SNRIs), tailored to minimize side effects that could impair athletic performance. Effective treatment requires a careful balance to manage pain while maintaining physical capabilities. When treating athletes for neuropathic pain, healthcare providers must ensure prescribed medications comply with World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) regulations. Narcotics (opioids) and cannabinoids are prohibited in-competition. Glucocorticoids are also banned in-competition if administered via injection, orally, or rectally, and elevated levels in urine may lead to sanctions.
Narratives for Positive Nature Futures in Europe
Authors: D’Alessio Alessandra , Fornarini Claudia , Fernandez Nestor , Namasivayam Anandi Sarita , Visconti Piero , Dertien Jeremy , Hällfors Maria , Jung Martin , Moreira Francisco , O’Connor Louise , Osti Matea , Quintero-Uribe Laura C. , Viti Martina Marei , Lauta Andrea , Pereira Henrique M. , Verburg Peter H. , Rondinini Carlo
Published: February 2025

The Nature Futures Framework (NFF) is a novel approach for the development of positive scenarios centered on the relationship of nature and people, emphasizing biodiversity as part of the solution to environmental challenges across various spatial and temporal scales, explicitly addressing a plurality of values for nature. In this work, we describe the process that has led to the formulation of continental-scale positive narratives for conservation in Europe based on the NFF and its value perspectives (Nature for Nature; Nature for Society; Nature as Culture), through an expert group elicitation. We focused on 6 topics in the narratives: Nature Protection and Restoration; Forest Ecosystems; Freshwater Ecosystems; Urban Systems; Agriculture, and Energy. We analyze differences and similarities among the narratives across these topics. We develop three novel Nature Futures narratives for Europe with contrasting perspectives and priorities for the six topics. Within the EU socioeconomic trends and policy framework, common solutions that simultaneously tackle biodiversity conservation and instrumental and cultural Nature’s Contributions to People (NCP) provision emerged. This set of narratives may integrate preferences concerning EU-level conservation targets and plausible socio-ecological development pathways, supporting the modeling of positive scenarios for nature that can be crucial in guiding policy decisions towards recovery of nature.