bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Popular movie effects on advanced finance course performance: flipped classroom vs in-class view
Authors: Brahmana Rayenda Khresna , Yau Josephine Tan-Hwang
Published: January 2025

Purpose

Interest in using popular movies in higher education has flourished, but determining their actual impact remains tricky. Some studies suggest these movies can positively affect student satisfaction, yet many criticize this method as ineffective or lazy. Our study compared two ways of using popular movies – watching them in class versus a flipped approach – for an advanced finance module. We aim to examine the best teaching delivery of watching popular movies in an advanced module.

Design/methodology/approach

This study compares two teaching methods during movie screenings: a didactic flipped classroom (Group 01) and in-class viewing (Group 02). The sampling frame was final-year finance students from a public university. It was conducted over two academic years and involved 190 students aged 20–23. These students were split into two groups: G01, with 93 students, and G02, with 97 students. The study focused on the movie “Big Short,” chosen for its relevance to the Fixed-Income Securities course (the advanced module).

Findings

Our findings indicate both methods led to high student satisfaction, with no significant difference between in-class viewing and the flipped approach. However, the understanding of the advanced module significantly increased overall. Importantly, using popular movies as flipped material resulted in better student grades compared to in-class viewing. This suggests that while using popular movies is a beneficial teaching method, employing a didactic flipped classroom approach yields superior outcomes for students.

Practical implications

This research offers practical insights for instructors, highlighting the value of utilizing popular movies in advanced education. It suggests incorporating movies as learning materials can enhance student satisfaction, particularly when employed within a flipped classroom framework. Importantly, the study reveals that adopting the flipped classroom approach yields superior academic outcomes compared to traditional in-class viewing. Thus, instructors teaching advanced modules should consider integrating popular movies within flipped classrooms to not only enhance student satisfaction but also improve academic performance.

Originality/value

Our research investigates popular movies' efficacy, particularly in advanced finance education. While previous studies have explored using movies to enhance student satisfaction, this study investigates it further by comparing two delivery methods: the didactic flipped classroom and traditional in-class viewing. While both methods effectively increase student satisfaction, the didactic flipped classroom significantly improves academic performance. This highlights the innovative potential of the flipped approach in promoting deeper learning and suggests practical implications for instructors seeking to enhance both satisfaction and academic outcomes in advanced courses.
A new holistic approach to preventing accounting fraud in the non-profit organisation (NPO) sector: some propositions and research agenda
Authors: Nguyen Khanh , Sands John , Trimmer Karen
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This paper systematically reviewed research on accounting fraud in the non-profit organisation (NPO) sector during 2004–2024 to identify gaps in theory and practice with the aim of producing a new parsimonious global fraud model.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper utilised a structured literature review methodology.

Findings

We propose a new holistic approach for the NPO sector worldwide, with two foci of “what may contribute to fraud” and “what may prevent fraud”.

Research limitations/implications

The future research agenda for the new holistic approach is provided.

Practical implications

The approach helps donors promote accountability and transparency in the NPO sector worldwide, thereby sustaining the development of this sector.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this paper is the first comprehensive worldwide fraud research review, making distinct contributions. Globally, the approach is the first dedicated to the NPO sector, including different stages of fraud occurrence (undetected, suspected, actual/detected and future), and using a multi-disciplinary approach to prevent these stages. The approach is also the first to incorporate individual-level, organisational-level, industry-level and country-level factors into predicting future fraud.
Examination of the effects of using different crosslinkers in biodegradable coating formulation on printability properties of flexographic print system
Authors: Sönmez Sinan , Li Kecheng , Marcello Cornelius
Published: January 2025

Purpose

In this study, the printability properties of different printing substrates coated with biodegradable formulation using different crosslinkers in the flexo printing system were examined and the data obtained regarding this was shared.

Design/methodology/approach

In this study, a coating formulation that can both provide barrier properties and be printable at the same time has been developed. The most basic feature that distinguishes this improved formulation from other products used in the packaging industry is that it is biodegradable. However, crosslinkers used in such formulations may affect the chemical structural properties of the formulations. In the study conducted to determine these effects and their effects on printing properties, two different coating formulations were prepared using glyoxal and N-hydroxymethyl acrylamide. The prepared formulation was coated on three different substrates and its printability properties were determined.

Findings

It has been determined that the use of N-hydroxymethyl acrylamide is better than glyoxal in improving both porosity and surface smoothness. Since coating both surfaces reduces the porosity value, the barrier property obtained will be better than single-sided coating. The two-sides coating did not significantly affect the surface roughness. However, higher optical density obtained kraft, kraft has a lower print contrast compared to other paper samples. The use of N-hydroxymethyl acrylamide resulted in an increase in the print contrast value compared to the use of glyoxal. Using glyoxal, the two-sides coating increased the print contrast. Kraft has a lower print chroma. The crosslinking agent change has not affected print chroma. Also, the two-sides coating did not significantly change the print chroma. Office paper and SBS have a higher print lightness compared to other paper samples. After print, gloss values of test sample decreased. The two-sides coating did not significantly change the printability properties.

Originality/value

It is a resource for packaging manufacturers and institutions providing training on this subject.
Foundational movement skills among Chinese children and adolescents during and after the COVID-19 pandemic: a systematic review
Authors: Kong Yu Hin , Chow Chi Ching, Gary
Published: January 2025

Purpose

Multiple infectious control measures, e.g. social distancing, city lockdown and mask-wearing, have been implemented since the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) outbreak. Given the bidirectional relationship between foundational movement skills (FoMS) and physical activity (PA), and inadequate PA in Chinese children and adolescents, FoMS tends to decrease during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. Therefore, the purpose of this paper is to systematically review the literature about the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on FoMS of individuals aged 5–17 years in Chinese societies.

Design/methodology/approach

Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses was followed. Peer-reviewed articles on four electronic databases (Scopus, Web of Science, EBSCOhost and PubMed) were searched on 8 May 2024. The quality of each study was evaluated by the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (MMAT) version 2018. Two independent reviewers were involved in all study selection and appraising procedures.

Findings

Among 18,450 records identified, 10 quantitative studies analysing student participants were included. The overall quality of these studies was high, with an average score of 86% in MMAT. The variations among these studies led to inconclusive evaluations. So as to advance the quality of future research and assessments, investigating more aspects of FoMS, standardising physical test protocols and report styles and adopting multiple research designs should be achieved.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first review synthesising evidence about FoMS for Chinese children and adolescents. A definitive conclusion cannot be provided due to certain methodological issues. The current situation of FoMS and future research directions were illustrated.
Unsupervised learning inversion of seismic velocity models based on a multi‐scale strategy
Authors: Yang Senlin , Liu Bin , Ren Yuxiao , Jiang Peng
Published: January 2025

Deep learning‐based methods have performed well in seismic waveform inversion tasks in recent years, while the need for velocity models as labels has somewhat limited their application. Unsupervised learning allows us to train the neural network without labels. When inverting seismic velocity models from observed data, labels are often unavailable for real data. To address this problem and improve network generalization, we introduce a multi‐scale strategy to enhance the performance of unsupervised learning. The first ‘multi‐scale’ is derived from the conventional full waveform inversion strategy, in which the low‐, middle‐ and high‐frequency inversion results are successively predicted during the network training. Another ‘multi‐scale’ is to introduce multi‐scale similarity as an additional data loss term to improve the inversion results. With 12,000 samples from the overthrust model, our method obtains comparable results with the supervised learning method and outperforms unsupervised methods that rely only on the mean square error as a loss function. We compare the performance of the proposed method with multi‐scale full waveform inversion on the Marmousi model, and the proposed method achieves better results at low‐ and middle‐frequencies, and, as a result, it provides good initial models for further full waveform inversion updates.
‘THEY SUPPRESSED OUR RIGHTS WITH CONCRETE’: Politics of Exclusion and (Im)permanence in Rohingya Refugee Camps in Bangladesh
Authors: Bashar Samira Binte , Sletto Bjørn
Published: January 2025

By framing the displacement of people fleeing war, persecution and violence as a short‐term problem, refugee camps have emerged to offer temporary accommodations and services to displaced refugees. In Bangladesh, refugee camps were built in Cox's Bazar and Bhasan Char in recent years to house Rohingya refugees escaping from state‐sponsored persecution by Myanmar. Constructed in two very different geographic contexts—mainland and island—yet intended to address the same refugee problem, the two camps reveal different built environments intended to instill different feelings of permanence and impermanence to affect control over refugees’ lives. We argue that planning and design thus serve as strategic biopolitical instruments by controlling and perpetually redefining the production and manifestation of (im)permanence in both sensual and tactile terms. The geographic locations of the refugee camps vis‐à‐vis their distance from the host country population function as an important driver of planning decisions. However, as these cases demonstrate, the biopolitics of exclusion are inherently incomplete, transforming camps into emerging, negotiated, and fluid campscapes. By providing a comparative analysis of the biotechnology of exclusion through the politics of (im)permanence in mainland versus island settings, we contribute to the understanding of the role of planning in reproducing spatial boundaries for social control.
A functional data analysis approach for modelling frequency‐modulated tonal sounds in animal communication
Authors: Labriola Maria Silvia , Pammer Petra Oswine , Pedrazzi Giulia , Giacomini Giancarlo , Jona Lasinio Giovanna , Pace Daniela Silvia
Published: January 2025

Frequency modulation (FM) is believed to play a major role in encoding information in tonal vocal communication. However, most studies aimed at investigating acoustic variability rely on the manual measurement of acoustic parameters, and the implementation of multivariate techniques, which represent only partially sound FM. Thus, innovative modelling approaches able to capture local FM dynamics are needed for tonal sounds modelling. These kinds of methodological developments in bioacoustics might be key for further understanding animal behaviour and ecology.

We propose the application of a functional data analysis (FDA) approach to model extracted FM patterns, which entails the transformation of acoustic signals into continuous functions. We describe a Raven‐to‐R FDA workflow for modelling tonal sounds and we highlight two of its potential applications for classification aims and FM analysis in relation to behavioural, social, and environmental factors. For illustrative purposes, the approach performance was tested on FM patterns (contours) of signature whistles emitted by bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus), to investigate their acoustic variability and potential information content.

Our results show that tonal sounds are inherently of functional nature and can be treated as such for FM analysis. We found that building the FDA sound curves using 25 B‐spline basis functions was the most appropriate setting for the functionalisation of dolphin whistles. Our approach was able to accurately reconstruct the FM patterns of the modelled tonal sounds and even to capture their fine‐scale modulations, with a precision of 80%. Functional clustering showed an accuracy up to 89% for short whistles. Estimated functional coefficients of the regression model suggested that different contextual factors have a significant effect on the FM patterns of SWs.

The adoption of an FDA approach appears to be quite promising for the study of frequency‐modulated tonal sounds, both for classification aims and in‐depth FM analysis. The limitations and advantages of the approach were discussed. We developed and tested a new methodology able to fill knowledge gaps in animal communication, and we anticipate it will lead to advances in the ethological and ecological understanding of wild animal populations.
Protecting the protectors: Whistleblowing and retaliation in the compliance arena
Authors: Boles Jeffrey R. , Eisenstadt Leora F. , Pacella Jennifer M.
Published: January 2025

In the last decade, we learned of massive scandals at some of the world's largest companies. In each of those cases, compliance officers were charged with ensuring that the company adhered to legal and regulatory requirements and their own internal codes of conduct, and yet, these companies were not protected from their own bad actors. Compliance functions have grown in importance, while, at the same time, it has become increasingly difficult to hire and retain qualified personnel for compliance roles. We posit that a key issue facing compliance personnel—one that could be improved with legislative attention—is the failure of the law to protect compliance officers from retaliation when they blow the whistle by reporting unlawful or unacceptable conduct to superiors inside the organization. In essence, when compliance officers do their jobs and alert the company to possible violations of law or take issue with the company's handling of a potential legal violation, these officers are vulnerable to retaliation and can be terminated, demoted, and the like without legal consequence. The very employees that organizations hire to protect them are themselves unprotected. In this article, we consider compliance officers in three areas: Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO), securities fraud and financial regulation, and anti‐money laundering. In two out of the three areas, we find compliance officers uniquely exposed to lawful retaliation, while the third area provides a far more protective environment and offers a path forward for the other two. In both the EEO sector and the securities fraud sector, we highlight the common law doctrines and statutory interpretations that have created this situation for compliance officers. In contrast, the Anti‐Money Laundering Act of 2020 (AMLA) provides exceptional protection for whistleblower compliance officers in this sector, and as a result, we propose using the AMLA as model legislation for proposed changes in the other two domains. The plight of compliance officer whistleblowers is complicated by courts that have intentionally and unintentionally narrowed protections without contemplating the broader implications of their actions. We propose that Congress respond to these narrowing doctrines so that compliance officers can effectively do their jobs and protect their organizations from legal liability and scandals, with the assurance of protection against retaliation as they perform this essential function.
Increasing Use of Antenatal Magnesium Sulphate Prior to Preterm Birth for Preventing Cerebral Palsy in Australia and New Zealand, 2012–2020: A Binational Registry Study
Authors: Shepherd Emily , McIntyre Sarah , Rumbold Alice , Karim Tasneem , Goldsmith Shona , Keir Amy , Poprzeczny Amanda , Hunt Rod W. , Badawi Nadia , Mckinlay Christopher J. D. , Crowther Caroline A. , Yelland Lisa ,   the Australian and New Zealand Neonatal Network (ANZNN)
Published: January 2025

We assessed the use of magnesium sulphate prior to preterm birth for preventing cerebral palsy in an Australian and New Zealand registry study. Use increased markedly from 32.3% (2012) to 78.8% (2020) (p < 0.001). Binational approaches to sustain and explore the feasibility of further increasing use, informed by evolving evidence and guidelines, are needed.
Ion permeability profiles of renal paracellular channel‐forming claudins
Authors: Pouyiourou Ioanna , Fromm Anja , Piontek Jörg , Rosenthal Rita , Furuse Mikio , Günzel Dorothee
Published: January 2025

Aim

Members of the claudin protein family are the major constituents of tight junction strands and determine the permeability properties of the paracellular pathway. In the kidney, each nephron segment expresses a distinct subset of claudins that form either barriers against paracellular solute transport or charge‐ and size‐selective paracellular channels. It was the aim of the present study to determine and compare the permeation properties of these renal paracellular ion channel‐forming claudins.

Methods

MDCK II cells, in which the five major claudins had been knocked out (claudin quintupleKO), were stably transfected with individual mouse Cldn2, ‐4, ‐8, ‐10a, ‐10b, or ‐15, or with dog Cldn16 or ‐19, or with a combination of mouse Cldn4 and Cldn8, or dog Cldn16 and Cldn19. Permeation properties were investigated in the Ussing chamber and claudin interactions by FRET assays.

Results

Claudin‐4 and ‐19 formed barriers against solute permeation. However, at low pH values and in the absence of HCO3−, claudin‐4 conveyed a weak chloride and nitrate permeability. Claudin‐8 needed claudin‐4 for assembly into TJ strands and abolished this anion preference. Claudin‐2, ‐10a, ‐10b, ‐15, ‐16+19 formed highly permeable channels with distinctive permeation profiles for different monovalent and divalent anions or cations, but barriers against the permeation of ions of opposite charge and of the paracellular tracer fluorescein.

Conclusion

Paracellular ion permeabilities along the nephron are strictly determined by claudin expression patterns. Paracellular channel‐forming claudins are specific for certain ions and thus lower transepithelial resistance, yet form barriers against the transport of other solutes.
Unfolded protein response: An essential element of intestinal homeostasis and a potential therapeutic target for inflammatory bowel disease
Authors: Di Mattia Miriam , Sallese Michele , Lopetuso Loris Riccardo
Published: January 2025

Different physiological and pathological situations can produce alterations in the cell's endoplasmic reticulum (ER), leading to a condition known as ER stress, which can trigger an intricate intracellular signal transduction system known as the unfolded protein response (UPR). UPR is primarily tailored to restore proteostasis and ER equilibrium; otherwise, if ER stress persists, it can cause programmed cell death as a cytoprotective mechanism and drive inflammatory processes. Therefore, since intestinal cells strongly rely on UPR for their biological functions and unbalanced UPR has been linked to inflammatory, metabolic, and immune disorders, here we discussed the role of the UPR within the intestinal tract, focusing on the UPR contribution to inflammatory bowel disease development. Importantly, we also highlighted the promising potential of UPR components as therapeutic targets for intestinal inflammatory diseases.
Robotic Laparoscopy and Endoscopy Cooperative Surgery for Primary Appendiceal Mucinous Carcinoma Masquerading as Bladder Cancer: A Case Report
Authors: Mizuno Ryosuke , Maekawa Hisatsugu , Hida Koya , Goto Takayuki , Teramoto Yuki , Kinoshita Hiromitsu , Sakamoto Takashi , Okumura Shintaro , Kasahara Keiko , Hoshino Nobuaki , Nishigori Tatsuto , Okamura Ryosuke , Itatani Yoshiro , Hisamori Shigeo , Tsunoda Shigeru , Obama Kazutaka
Published: January 2025

Bladder invasion by appendiceal cancer resulting in a vesico‐appendiceal fistula is an uncommon occurrence. Both radical tumor removal and functional preservation of the bladder are desirable in the surgical treatment of this disease, and there are few reports on detailed surgical methods. Here, we describe a case of primary appendiceal mucinous carcinoma with bladder invasion treated with robotic laparoscopy and endoscopy cooperative surgery (RECS). A woman in her 60s was initially considered to be bladder tumor and underwent transurethral resection. However, the tumor rapidly regrew, and she was rediagnosed with primary appendiceal cancer invading the bladder. RECS was performed, involving ileocecal resection with partial cystectomy. The postoperative course was favorable, with no bladder anastomotic leakage or ureteral obstruction. In the RECS procedure, the robotic operability facilitates bladder wall repair, and simultaneous cystoscopic observation allows for identification of the ureteral orifices, making the combined bladder resection radical and safe.
Comprehensive omics analysis of the fecal microbiome and serum metabolome in Dezhou donkey foals at the end of weaning and after weaning
Authors: Yang Qiwen , Wang Zhaofei , Su Jiangtian , Yang Ge , Liu Haibing , Liu Bing , Cheng Jie , Dong Boying , Jafari Halima , Wang Hua , Zhang Youxin , Lei Chuzhao , Dang Ruihua , Yu Jie
Published: January 2025

Weaning is essential for foal growth and development. We determined the intestinal flora structure of donkey foals at the end of weaning (PreW_4d) and three stages after weaning (PostW_4d, PostW_8d, and PostW_15d) to explore the effects of weaning on intestinal development of donkey foals. The results showed that the main microbial flora in the gut of the donkey foal were Firmicutes and Bacteroides, and the proportion of Firmicutes gradually increased with weaning, which was an important reflection of the donkey foal's adaptability to the transition from lactose liquid feed to plant fiber solid feed. We also identified important microorganisms that maintain intestinal stability and boost immune, such as oscillospiraceae, Firmicutes, and lachnospiraceae. The metabolome showed that serum metabolites were mainly enriched in arachidonic acid metabolism and the tricarboxylic acid cycle (TCA cycle), which can influence energy metabolism, growth, and immunity in weaned donkey foals. We also found that the metabolite resveratrol was positively correlated with g_NK4A214_group and lactobacillus, which may have important implications for the prevention of diseases such as colon‐inflammation in donkey foals. In summary, we provide a theoretical basis for studying the mechanism of intestinal microbiome and serum metabolite changes in weaning and postweaning donkey foals.
An inventory of subglacial overdeepenings in southern Germany and Austria
Authors: Gegg Lukas , Salcher Bernhard C. , Pollhammer Thomas , Cohen Denis , Fischer Urs H. , Landgraf Angela
Published: January 2025

Subglacial overdeepenings are of interest for a number of applied and academic reasons, for example as groundwater reservoirs or as sedimentary archives of environmental change. Thus, efforts have been made to compile and morphometrically analyse such features on a large scale. While this includes several prominent studies focusing on the western part of the European Alps and their foreland, their eastern part lacks information. We present an inventory of >100 individual overdeepened basins in southern Germany and Austria compiled from heterogeneous sources. These basins are typically incised ~200 m (max. ~1000 m) below ground surface and ~20 km (max. ~100 km) long, and thus of similar dimensions as overdeepenings in the western (Swiss) Alps and foreland. We observe a positive correlation of overdeepening area and depth with catchment size and both peak and average elevations, although large and deep basins also occur in small catchments. Generally, large overdeepenings are restricted to inner‐Alpine fault zones or the primarily weak foreland Molasse. Especially in inner‐Alpine settings, longitudinal profiles are highly irregular. In the eastern Alpine foreland, individual basins are frequently arranged in a radial pattern, a morphology that is not typical of the western foreland, and is a result of less constrained ice flow. On the valley scale, the depth of overdeepened basins correlates with modelled ice‐flow parameters, thickness and basal velocity at peak glacial conditions. Together with their occurrence in low‐elevation reaches, this suggests a rapid formation over a few millennia at most. On a smaller, local scale, basin depth is highly irregular. Finally, the existence of several generations of (similarly) large foreland overdeepenings, sometimes superimposed, indicates that these basins do not grow progressively over consecutive glacial cycles but that a negative feedback, likely related to the freezing of supercooled basal water, limits their dimensions.
Resource availability for CNS tumor diagnostics in the Asian Oceanian region: A survey by the Asian Oceanian Society of Neuropathology committee for Adapting Diagnostic Approaches for Practical Taxonomy in Resource‐Restrained Regions (AOSNP‐ADAPTR)
Authors: Sarkar Chitra , Rao Shilpa , Santosh Vani , Al‐Hussaini Maysa , Park Sung Hye , Tihan Tarik , Buckland Michael E. , Ng Ho‐Keung , Komori Takashi
Published: January 2025

The shift toward a histo‐molecular approach in World Health Organization classification of central nervous system tumors (WHO CNS5) emphasizes the critical role of molecular testing, such as next‐generation sequencing (NGS) and DNA methylation profiling, for accurate diagnosis. However, implementing these advanced techniques is particularly challenging in resource‐constrained countries. To address this, the Asian Oceanian Society of Neuropathology committee for Adapting Diagnostic Approaches for Practical Taxonomy in Resource‐Restrained Regions (AOSNP‐ADAPTR) was initiated to help pathologists in resource‐limited regions to implement WHO CNS5 diagnoses using simpler diagnostic tools, mainly immunohistochemistry. An online survey by this group assessed the in‐house/local availability of diagnostic resources and outsourcing capabilities across the Asian Oceanian region, covering 19 countries. Of 318 responding centers, the availability of molecular techniques in‐house/locally was limited in lower middle‐income countries (LMICs), with 29% having fluorescence in situ hybridization, 10.7% Sanger sequencing, and only 9.4% NGS. DNA methylation was largely unavailable in‐house/locally in of LMICs, while in the whole region, its availability stood at a meager 4.4%. Though outsourcing for all diagnostic tests was an easily accessible alternative, outsourcing for NGS and DNA methylation was uncommon because of the financial burden on patients being a significant obstacle. The survey categorized centers into five resource levels (RLs) based on the in‐house/local access to diagnostic techniques, which highlighted the variability and disparity in diagnostic capabilities across the region. High‐income countries had 80% of centers with advanced RL IV, V resources, in contrast to LMICs, where 70.5% of centers fell into RL I–III. This comprehensive evaluation emphasizes the need for tailored resource level guidelines, with the aim of improving diagnostic accuracy and treatment as well as advocating better healthcare infrastructure in resource‐constrained areas. However, the survey's reliance on responses from better‐resourced centers may underestimate challenges in lower‐resource settings, stressing the need for broader outreach and support.
Dyeing performance enhancement of ultra‐high molecular weight polyethylene fabric via plasma and tannic acid treatment
Authors: Ahmad Muhammad , Ke Guizhen , Chen Chunmei
Published: January 2025

In this study, the dyeing properties of atmospheric plasma and tannic acid surface modified ultra‐high molecular weight polyethylene fabric were examined. The study focused on optimisation of colour strength. The effect of plasma treatment time and discharge power on colour strength was optimised. Dyeing parameters were optimised by running central composite response surface design of experiments. After dyeing, surface characteristics were observed by K/S (colour strength), colour fastness to soaping, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X‐ray dispersive spectroscopy (XDS), Fourier Transform–infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, rubbing fastness and contact angles, respectively. The response surface experimental design results showed better colour strength by reducing padder pressure and increasing the curing temperature and curing time. SEM showed increased roughness of surface and tannic acid adhesion to the surface. Both XDS and FTIR spectroscopy showed increased surface polarity. Enhanced durability was displayed at 1000 W for 20 seconds of exposure and 1% TA‐ (w/v) for 6 hours at pH 4‐5. Contact angles showed enhanced hydrophilic behaviour. Also, the rubbing fastness was good. The process had a low cost. This approach was suitable because of the higher production rate of continuous dyeing, and it was also sustainable, considering that tannic acid is a natural resource and atmospheric plasma is a waterless treatment.
Genome‐Wide Screening in Haploid Stem Cells Reveals Synthetic Lethality Targeting MLH1 and TP53 Deficient Tumours
Authors: Cashman Rivki , Haim‐Abadi Guy , Lezmi Elyad , Philip Hagit , Nissenbaum Jonathan , Viner‐Breuer Ruth , Kozulin Chen , Golan‐Lev Tamar , Gadban Aseel , Spinner‐Potesky Shiri , Yanuka Ofra , Kopper Oded , Benvenisty Nissim
Published: January 2025

Synthetic lethality is defined as a type of genetic interaction where the combination of two genetic events results in cell death, whereas each of them separately does not. Synthetic lethality can be a useful tool in personalised oncology. MLH1 is a cancer‐related gene that has a central role in DNA mismatch‐repair and TP53 is the most frequently mutated gene in cancer. To identify genetic events that can lead to tumour death once either MLH1 or TP53 is mutated, a genome‐wide genetic screening was performed. Thus, mutations in all protein‐coding genes were introduced into haploid human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) with and without loss‐of‐function mutations in the MLH1 or TP53 genes. These experiments uncovered a list of putative hits with EXO1, NR5A2, and PLK2 genes for MLH1, and MYH10 gene for TP53 emerging as the most promising candidates. Synthetic lethal interactions of these genes were validated genetically or chemically using small molecules that inhibit these genes. The specific effects of SR1848, which inhibits NR5A2, ON1231320 or BI2536, which inhibits PLK2, and blebbistatin, which inhibits MYH10, were further validated in cancer cell lines. Finally, animal studies with CCL xenografts showed the selective effect of the small molecule BI2536 on MLH1‐null tumours and of blebbistatin on TP53‐mutated tumours. Thus, demonstrating their potential for personalised medicine, and the robustness of genetic screening in haploid hESCs in the context of cancer therapeutics.
Exploring the link between inflammation and brain function after metabolic‐bariatric surgery: A year‐long fMRI study
Authors: Szwed Magdalena , Falkowski Adrian , Seitz‐Holland Johanna , Borkowska Alina , Michalik Maciej , Kubicki Marek , Szwed Krzysztof
Published: January 2025

Background

Metabolic‐bariatric surgery (MBS) transcends weight loss and offers wide‐ranging health benefits, including positive effects on brain function. However, the mechanisms behind these effects remain unclear, particularly in the context of significant postoperative changes in the inflammatory profile characteristic of MBS. Understanding how inflammation influences postoperative brain function can enhance our decision‐making on patient eligibility for MBS and create new opportunities to improve the outcomes of this popular treatment.

Objective

To identify brain regions where spontaneous neural activity and functional connectivity are linked with the evolving inflammatory profile following MBS.

Methods

We investigated the relationship between the perioperative ratio of interleukin (IL)‐6 to IL‐10 and both the amplitude of low‐frequency fluctuation (ALFF) and functional connectivity across 375 brain regions. We examined 36 patients at three time points: 1 week before, and 3 and 12 months after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy.

Results

Initially, the IL‐6/IL‐10 ratio increased during the early postoperative period but then decreased to levels lower than the preoperative values 1 year after surgery. We observed that ALFF in four subcortical structures decreased with a rising IL‐6/IL‐10 ratio and increased with a declining ratio. Conversely, 16 cortical regions displayed the opposite trend. Additionally, functional connectivity between the left insula and bilateral medial prefrontal cortex increased with a rising IL‐6/IL‐10 ratio and decreased with a declining ratio.

Conclusions

Our study is the first to identify brain regions significantly linked to inflammation after MBS. Importantly, many of the discovered areas were previously shown to be involved in the pathogenesis of obesity or are targets of contemporary medical treatments. Consequently, our findings offer valuable insights for future obesity research, especially in the context of potential therapeutic opportunities.
Estimation of Annual Productivity of Sown Rainfed Grasslands Using Machine Learning
Authors: Morais Tiago G. , Jongen Marjan , Tufik Camila , Rodrigues Nuno R. , Gama Ivo , Serrano João , Domingos Tiago , Teixeira Ricardo F. M.
Published: January 2025

Grasslands play a critical role in providing diverse ecosystem services. Sown biodiverse pastures (SBP) rich in legumes are an important agricultural innovation that increases grassland productivity and reduces the need for fertilisers. This study developed a machine learning model to obtain spatially explicit estimations of the productivity of SBP, based on field sampling data from five Portuguese farms during four production years (2018–2021) and under two fertilisation regimes (conventional and variable rate). Weather data (such as temperature, precipitation and radiation), soil properties (including sand, silt, clay and pH), terrain characteristics (including elevation, slope, aspect, hillshade and topographic position index), and management data (including fertiliser application) were used as predictors. A variance inflation factor (VIF) approach was used to measure multicollinearity between input variables, leading to only 11 of the 53 input variables being used. Artificial neural network (ANN) methods were used to estimate pasture productivity, and hyper‐parameterization optimization was performed to fine‐tune the model. Plots under variable rate fertilisation were significantly improved by up to 20 kg P ha−1 applied in the same year. Plots under conventional fertilisation benefitted the most from fertilisation in past years. The model demonstrated good generalisation, with similar estimation errors for both the training and test sets: for an average yield of 6096 kg ha−1 in the sample, the root mean squared errors (RMSE) for the training and test sets were respectively 882 and 1125 kg ha−1. These results indicate that the model did not overfit the training data and can be used to estimate SBP productivity maps in the sampled farms. However, further studies are required to asses if the obtained model can be applied to new unseen data.
Laboratory investigation of METTL7A driving MSC osteogenic differentiation through YAP1 translation enhancement via eIF4F recruitment
Authors: Cui Li , Mai Zizhao , Lu Ye , Zheng Jiarong , Lin Pei , Chen Xu , Zheng Yucheng , Lin Yunfan , Guo Bing , Zhao Xinyuan
Published: January 2025

Aim

Effective control of mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) differentiation towards osteogenic lineages is fundamental for bone regeneration. This study elucidates the regulatory role of methyltransferase like 7A (METTL7A) in the osteogenic differentiation of MSCs.

Methodology

Alkaline phosphatase staining, Alizarin Red S staining, western blotting, and in vivo studies were conducted to determine the effects of METTL7A depletion or overexpression on the osteogenic differentiation of various types of MSCs. Then the downstream signalling pathways regulated by METTL7A in MSCs were further investigated.

Results

Our findings indicate that METTL7A expression significantly increases during the osteogenic differentiation of MSCs. Furthermore, depletion of METTL7A hindered, whereas its overexpression enhanced, the osteogenic differentiation of MSCs. Mechanistically, METTL7A influences MSC osteogenic differentiation by activating the YAP1‐TEAD1 signalling pathway. It enhances YAP1 expression not only by stabilising YAP1 mRNA but also, crucially, by recruiting the eIF4F complex, thereby boosting the translation efficiency of YAP1 mRNA. Additionally, the YAP1/TEAD1 complex transcriptionally regulates METTL7A expression, creating a positive feedback loop that amplifies osteogenic differentiation.

Conclusions

Overall, our study uncovers a previously unknown molecular mechanism of MSC osteogenic differentiation and suggests that activating METTL7A could offer new avenues for enhancing bone regeneration.
High‐voltage electron microscopy analyses for crack‐tip dislocations and their shielding effect on fracture toughness in MgO and Si crystals
Authors: Higashida Kenji , Sadamatsu Sunao , Tanaka Masaki
Published: January 2025

In this study, characteristics of dislocation structures around a crack‐tip in both crystals of MgO and Si were investigated using high‐voltage electron microscopy (HVEM). The interaction between a crack and dislocations was analyzed to discuss the effect of crack‐tip plasticity on fracture toughness. The present paper first demonstrates a dislocation configuration around a crack‐tip in a MgO thin crystal, where the plastic zone called 45°‐shear type is dominant under the plane stress condition. Then, the slip systems necessary for brittle‐to‐ductile transition in ionic crystals with the rock‐salt structure are discussed based on the temperature dependence of stress‐strain relationships and the aspect of crack front observed in NaCl crystals. Second, crack‐tip dislocations near the surface of bulk Si crystals are exhibited based on the 3D analyses using HVEM tomography. We focus on a newfound plastic zone being perpendicular to the crack plane, which is different from either 45°‐shear type or the hinge type generally well‐known. The dislocation loops observed in this plastic zone fundamentally have a crack‐tip shielding effect to increase fracture toughness. Still, in addition, they contribute to activating crack‐tip dislocations by their localized antishielding field. These analyses reveal a fundamental toughening mechanism for crystalline materials.
Vitamin D3–VDR and vitamin A‐RAR affect IL‐13 and IFNγ secretion from human CD4+ T cells directly and indirectly via competition for their shared co‐receptor RXR
Authors: Stanisic Tiana , Ewing Emma Uttrup , Lindell Alma , Al‐Jaberi Fatima , Kongsbak‐Wismann Martin
Published: January 2025

The effects of vitamin D and vitamin A in immune cells are mediated through the vitamin D receptor (VDR) and retinoic acid receptor (RAR), respectively. These receptors share the retinoid X receptor (RXR) co‐factor for transcriptional regulation. We investigated the effects of active vitamin D3 (1,25(OH)2D3) and 9‐cis retinoic acid (9cRA) on T helper (TH)1 and TH2 cytokines and transcription factors in primary human blood‐derived CD4+ T cells. We aimed to address the discrepancies in this field, particularly regarding the effects of 9cRA and the vitamins in combination. 1,25(OH)2D3 upregulated IL‐13 and suppressed IFNγ, while 9cRA had the opposite effects. This was largely independent of a TH1/TH2 phenotype shift. Combined vitamin supplementation produced intermediate cytokine levels, not only through transcriptional regulation by VDR‐RXR and RAR‐RXR but also through 1,25(OH)2D3 counteracting the effects of 9cRA on solely 9cRA‐responsive genes. Similar results were observed in hereditary vitamin D‐resistant rickets (HVDRR) patient T cells, where VDR cannot bind to DNA, indicating that RXR binding to either receptor can limit the other's activity. Additionally, we observed downregulated RAR upon 9cRA supplementation and its re‐localization out of the nucleus upon 1,25(OH)2D3 supplementation, suggesting a mechanism of indirect regulation by VDR. VDR protein levels were also upregulated upon 9cRA supplementation, suggesting a novel negative feedback mechanism of 9cRA transcriptional activity, whereby 9cRA promotes its own competitor. This study sets the stage for future research into the combined immunomodulatory mechanisms of 1,25(OH)2D3 and 9cRA, involving both direct transcriptional regulation and indirect regulation via RXR competitive binding.
Seizure detection via reservoir computing in MoS
2
-based charge trap memory devices
Authors: Farronato Matteo , Mannocci Piergiulio , Milozzi Alessandro , Compagnoni Christian Monzio , Barcellona Alessandro , Arena Andrea , Crepaldi Marco , Panuccio Gabriella , Ielmini Daniele
Published: January 2025

Neurological disorders are a substantial global health burden, affecting millions of people worldwide. A key challenge in developing effective treatments and preventive measures is the realization of low-power wearable systems with early detection capabilities. Traditional strategies rely on machine learning algorithms, but their computational demands often exceed what miniaturized systems can provide. Neuromorphic computing, inspired by the human brain, demonstrated capabilities of on-chip computing with low power consumption. In this context, bidimensional (2D) semiconductors hold notable promise, thanks to their unique electronic properties, atomic-scale thickness, and scalability, making them ideal for low-power applications. This work presents a neuromorphic reservoir computing system exploiting MoS
2
-based charge trap memories (CTMs) for processing of electrophysiological signals. Real-time seizures detection is achieved, thanks to the nonlinear integration of local-field potential (LFP) recorded from in vitro rodent models of ictogenesis. The results support MoS
2
-based CTMs for low-power biomedical devices in clinical diagnosis and treatment of epilepsy.
Biomimetic wrinkled prebiotic microspheres with enhanced intestinal retention for hyperphosphatemia and vascular calcification
Authors: Hu Bianxiang , Wang Yongqin , Yu Lei , Cao Lisha , Liu Shuai , Zhong Linfang , Wang Guobao , Qiu Xiaozhong , Hou Honghao
Published: January 2025

It is urgent for patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) to develop a robust and facile therapy for effective control of serum phosphate and reasonable regulation of gut microbiota, which are aiming to prevent cardiovascular calcification and reduce cardiovascular complications. Here, bioinspired by intestinal microstructures, we developed biomimetic wrinkled prebiotic-containing microspheres with enhanced intestinal retention and absorption for reducing hyperphosphatemia and vascular calcification of CKD model rats. The resultant CSM@5 microspheres exhibited favorable phosphate binding capacity in vitro and could effectively reduce serum concentration of phosphorous in vivo. Through increasing the beneficial bacteria and decreasing the harmful bacteria in the intestinal tract, these prebiotic microspheres can modulate intestinal microbiota and then ameliorate vascular calcification notably. This feasible and robust approach may offer a potential and effective strategy for the treatment of hyperphosphatemia of CKD and prevention of its cardiovascular complications.
Changes in household purchasing of soft drinks following the UK soft drinks industry levy by household income and composition: controlled interrupted time series analysis, March 2014 to November 2019
Authors: Rogers Nina Trivedy , Cummins Steven , Pell David , Rutter Harry , Sharp Stephen J , Smith Richard D , White Martin , Adams Jean
Published: January 2025

Background

The WHO recommends taxes on sugar sweetened beverages (SSBs) to improve population health. We examined changes in volume of and amount of sugar in purchases of soft drinks according to household income and composition, 19 months following the implementation of the UK soft drinks industry levy.

Methods

Data were from the Kantar Fast Moving Consumer Goods panel, a market research panel which collects data on weekly household purchases (mean weekly number of households=21 908), March 2014–November 2019. Interrupted time series analysis of volume and sugar purchases was used to estimate absolute and relative differences in the volume and amount of sugar in soft drinks, confectionery and alcohol purchased weekly by household income (<£20 000, £20–50 000 or >£50 000) and composition (presence of children (<16 years) in the household (yes or no)), 19 months after soft drinks industry levy (SDIL) implementation, compared with the counterfactual scenario based on pre-announcement trends and using a control group (toiletries).

Results

By November 2019, purchased weekly sugar in soft drinks fell by 7.46 g (95% CI: 12.05, 2.87) per household but volumes of drinks purchased remained unchanged, compared with the counterfactual. In low-income households, weekly sugar purchased in soft drinks decreased by 14.0% (95% CI: 12.1, 15.9) compared with the counterfactual but in high-income households increased by 3.4% (1.07, 5.75). Among households with children, sugar purchased decreased by 13.7% (12.1, 15.3) but increased in households without children by 5.0% (3.0, 7.0). Low-income households and those with children also reduced their weekly volume of soft drinks purchased by 5.7% (3.7, 7.7) and 8.5% (6.8, 10.2) respectively. There was no evidence of substitution to confectionary or alcohol.

Conclusion

In the second year following implementation of the SDIL, effects on sugar purchased were greatest in those with the highest pre-SDIL purchasing levels (low-income households and those with children). The SDIL may contribute to reducing dietary inequalities.

Trial registration number

ISRCTN18042742. Registered: August 2017.