bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genome-wide characterization of two-component system elements in barley enables the identification of grain-specific phosphorelay genes
Authors: Hertig Christian W. , Devunuri Pravinya , Rutten Twan , Hensel Götz , Schippers Jos H. M. , Müller Bruno , Thiel Johannes
Published: February 2025

Background

The two-component system (TCS) serves as a common intracellular signal transduction pathway implicated in various processes of plant development and response to abiotic stress. With regard to the important cereal crop barley, only partial information about the occurrence of TCS signaling elements in the genome and putative functions is available.

Results

In this study, we identified a total of 67 non-redundant TCS genes from all subgroups of the phosphorelay in the latest barley reference genome. Functional annotation and phylogenetic characterization was combined with a comprehensive gene expression analysis of the signaling components. Expression profiles hint at potential functions in vegetative and reproductive organs and tissue types as well as diverse stress responses. Apparently, a distinct subset of TCS genes revealed a stringent grain-specificity not being expressed elsewhere in the plant. By using laser capture microdissection (LCM)-based transcript analysis of barley grain tissues, we refined expression profiles of selected TCS genes and attributed them to individual cell types within the grain. Distinct TCS elements are exclusively expressed in the different maternal and filial cell types, particularly in the endosperm transfer cell (ETC) region. These genes are deemed to be selected in the domestication process of modern cultivars. Moreover, barley plants transformed with a synthetic sensor (TCSn::GFP) showed a high and specific activity in the ETC region of grains monitoring transcriptional output of the signaling system.

Conclusions

The results provide comprehensive insights into the TCS gene family in the temperate cereal crop barley and indicate implications in various agronomic traits. The dataset is valuable for future research in different aspects of plant development and will be indispensable not only for barley, but also for other crops of the Poaceae.
Evaluating the effectiveness of climate-based seed transfer and assisted migration: a case study of lodgepole pine (Pinus contorta var. latifolia Dougl.) and interior spruce (Picea engelmanii x glauca (Moench) Voss and their hybrids) in western Canada
Authors: Luo Dawei , O’Neill Gregory A. , Thomas Barb R. , Ukrainetz Nicholas , Wang Tongli
Published: February 2025

Key message

Forest assisted migration applied in combination with a climate-based seed transfer system to two North American tree species: lodgepole pine (Pinus contorta var. latifolia Dougl.) and interior spruce (Picea engelmanii x glauca (Moench) Voss and their hybrids), resulted in increased height growth and a substantially expanded seed deployment area, compared to a geographic-based seed transfer system in British Columbia, Canada.

Context

Forest assisted migration and climate-based seed transfer (CBST) are two recent innovations that have received significant attention as climate change adaptation strategies, but claims regarding their merits have not been well evaluated.

Aims

We aim to test the claim that CBST, combined with assisted migration, can provide closer matching of seed source and plantation climate, greater height growth, and wider seedlot deployment area than a conventional geographic-based seed transfer system (GBST).

Methods

Using transfer functions developed from two comprehensive, wide-ranging provenance trials of lodgepole pine and interior spruce, with populations from across western Canada, we estimated relative tree height growth at rotation and seed deployment area for a large set of simulated seed transfers in a CBST system with and without assisted migration and in a GBST system.

Results

When assisted migration and CBST were used in combination, volume growth was 13% (lodgepole pine) or 6% (interior spruce) greater at rotation age and deployment area was 2.2 times (lodgepole pine) or 7.3 times (interior spruce) greater than was expected in a GBST system. Height growth increases were primarily associated with assisted migration, whereas increases in seed deployment area were primarily associated with the use of CBST rather than GBST.

Conclusion

Converting from GBST to CBST in conjunction with assisted migration should substantially improve adaptation of lodgepole pine and interior spruce in British Columbia. This approach will also significantly offset the impacts of climate change on growth rates, increase deployment area, reduce seed collection costs, and provide greater flexibility to seed users.
Antibacterial potential of silver and zinc loaded plasma-electrolytic oxidation coatings for dental titanium implants
Authors: Paiwand Sabawun , Schäfer Sogand , Kopp Alexander , Beikler Thomas , Fiedler Imke , Gosau Martin , Fuest Sandra , Smeets Ralf
Published: February 2025

Peri-implantitis is known as an inflammatory condition affecting the soft and hard tissue around dental implants. A promising strategy to prevent these conditions is the use of antibacterial implants. This study aimed to evaluate the antibacterial potential of titanium (Ti) dental implants modified using plasma-electrolytic oxidation (PEO). The modified surfaces were subsequently loaded with silver (Ag) (n = 6) and zinc (Zn) (n = 6) ions and compared to unloaded Ti specimens (n = 6), with untreated specimens serving as controls. The specimens (each n = 5) were incubated in a culture medium containing a mixture of specific anaerobic bacterial strains. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used to visualize the bacterial biofilm on each specimen. In addition, total bacterial deoxxyribonucleic acid (DNA) and the number of viable bacteria were determined using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qrt-PCR) and colony forming unit analysis (CFU), respectively. The results of the CFU analysis showed a 2 log (99%) reduction in viable bacteria in the samples loaded with Ag and Zn compared to the unloaded control group (p < 0.05). Moreover, significantly lower bacterial DNA counts were detected with a 5 log reduction (99.999%) in the Ag and Zn samples compared to the positive control group (bacterial mixed culture solution, p < 0.05). Therefore, it was considered that Ag and Zn loaded Ti implants may be a promising addition to current approaches to enable advanced antibacterial dental implants. However, further studies should be conducted to evaluate the in vivo cytocompatibility of the developed specimens.
PRRSV-1 outbreak in a farrowing farm caused by a vaccine derived strain: a case report
Authors: Lebret Arnaud , Renson Patricia , Brissonnier Mathieu , Chevance Céline , Normand Valérie , Favrel Justine , Da-Costa Jean-François , Jeusselin Justine , Nicolazo Théo , Blanchard Yannick , Bourry Olivier , Boulbria Gwenaël
Published: February 2025

Background

The benefits of porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome (PRRS) modified live virus vaccines (MLV) have been largely proven, however, the safety of these vaccines is questioned since vaccine strains can revert to virulence due to random mutations or recombination events. Reversion to virulence has been previously described for PRRSV-2 MLVs and recently for PRRSV-1 MLV after recombination. This case report describes the introduction of a PRRSV-1 strain derived from a MLV associated with an outbreak of reproductive disorder in a 1000-sow farrow-to-wean farm in France.

Case presentation

In January 2023, unusual fever and lethargy in sows, and premature farrowings were reported in a farm that was regularly controlled as PRRS stable, through mass vaccination of the sows. PRRSV-1 was detected by PCR in sows and suckling piglet samples. Sequencing of ORF5, ORF7, and whole genome (WGS) was performed. Time-to-baseline production and total production losses were calculated using statistical process control methods. ORF5 and ORF7 nucleotide sequences indicated that the strain isolated from the clinical samples was differentiable from the DV MLV strain used in the farm (94.1% and 95.9% respectively) but closely related to the VP-046 Bis MLV strain which was never used (99.0% and 99.2% respectively). WGS of the farm PRRSV strain confirmed the high nucleotide identity percentage with the VP-046 Bis MLV strain (98.6%) over the entire genome and no recombination events was detected with MLV strains authorized in France. After different investigations aiming to identify the source of contamination, we were able to detect a closely related strain (99.46% of identity with the case farm strain across the entire genome) in a wean-to-finish farm located 400 m further. It took 17 batches (34 weeks) to recover the baseline production of piglets after implementation of a PRRSV stabilization protocol, which represented a total loss of 812 weaned piglets.

Conclusion

This is the first case report of a PRRSV-1 MLV which might have reverted to virulence in France and has caused substantial economic losses.
Markedly elevated blood pressure, tachycardia, and altered consciousness in patients with bacteremia during transurethral surgeries: two case reports
Authors: Hotta Arisa , Nishimura Momoka , Nakada Daisuke , Uchida Riko , Matsuura Hiroshi , Torii Naoko , Fujita Naoko , Hamada Taku , Nakamoto Ai , Yoshikawa Noriko
Published: February 2025

Background

Transurethral surgery is often accompanied by postoperative urinary tract infection. Although early detection and adequate treatment of bacteremia are required to prevent sepsis, it is usually undetectable during surgery. We report two cases with remarkable hypertension and tachycardia during transurethral surgery in which bacteremia was diagnosed by an intraoperative blood test.

Case presentation

An 80-year-old man (Case 1) underwent transurethral holmium laser prostate enucleation under spinal anesthesia, and an 88-year-old woman (Case 2) underwent transurethral resection of bladder tumor under general anesthesia. Altered consciousness (Case 1) and postoperative delirium (Case 2) were noted, in addition to remarkable intraoperative hypertension and tachycardia. We administered broad-spectrum antibiotics for possible bacteremia in both cases. The patients’ hemodynamics positively recovered the following day. Intraoperative blood samples revealed gram-negative bacillus.

Conclusions

Hypertension, tachycardia, and altered consciousness may suggest the onset of symptomatic bacteremia during transurethral surgery, and adequate treatment is required to prevent sepsis.
Can ion exchange resins be used for extracorporeal circulation therapy of hyperkalemia?
Authors: Orihara Kazuhiro , Yamaka Toshihiko , Matsuda Yasuhiro
Published: February 2025

Background

Severe hyperkalemia leads to severe arrhythmias, and hemodialysis is necessary when renal dysfunction occurs. However, hemodialysis has equipment limitations and requires a large amount of water. The response to hyperkalemia is even more serious, especially in times of disaster, when hemodialysis cannot be performed because of damage to medical facilities and the disruption of lifelines. In this study, the extracorporeal circulation method was considered an alternative to hemodialysis for hyperkalemia.

Methods

Potassium ion removal was based on the adsorption method, and adsorption columns were prepared with cation exchange resins. The extracorporeal circulation method was determined on the basis of changes in column inlet pressure via the direct hemoperfusion method, in which whole blood was passed through the column, and the plasma perfusion method, in which plasma obtained by plasma separation was passed through the column, using blood samples from the same swine. Circulation tests were conducted via this determined extracorporeal circulation method, and changes in electrolytes were observed.

Results

Considering that the extracorporeal circulation method is based on the column inlet pressure, which increases in the direct hemoperfusion method and is stable in the plasma reflux method, the filtration method is defined as the process in which the blood cell components are removed and passed through the column. Statistical examination of the electrolyte changes in the blood via the filtration method revealed a significant decrease in sodium and potassium ions and a significant increase in calcium ions at the filter inlet; a significant increase in sodium and calcium ions and a significant decrease in potassium ions at the column inlet; and significant decreases in sodium and calcium ions and significant increases in potassium ions at the column outlet.

Conclusions

Using the filtration method, it was possible to reduce potassium ions from hyperkalemic swine blood. This method can reduce potassium ion concentrations without equipment and facilities required for hemodialysis or the use of large amounts of dialysate or water and can contribute to the treatment of hyperkalemia in medical facilities without hemodialysis facilities or in disaster situations.
Focal cortical dysplasia type II: review of neuropathological manifestations and pathogenetic mechanisms
Authors: Fang Yubao , Zhang Yaqian , Huang Tiancai , Yang Shengyu , Li Yinchao , Zhou Liemin
Published: February 2025

Focal cortical dysplasia (FCD) is an important cause of intractable epilepsy, with FCD type II (FCD II) being the most common subtype. FCD II is characterized by cortical dyslamination accompanied by dysmorphic neurons (DNs). Identifying the molecular alterations and targetable biomarkers is pivotal for developing therapies. Here, we provide a detailed description of the neuropathological manifestations of FCD II, including morphological alterations and immunophenotypic profiles, indicating that abnormal cells exhibit a diverse spectrum of mixed differentiation states. Furthermore, we summarize current research on the pathogenetic mechanisms, indicating that gene mutations, epigenetic alterations, cortical developmental protein disturbances, inflammatory processes, and extrinsic damages may lead to abnormal neuronal proliferation and migration, thereby contributing to the emergence and progression of FCD II. These findings not only enhance our understanding of the pathogenesis of FCD II but also offer new directions for clinical diagnosis and treatment. Future research should further explore the interactions among these factors and employ multidisciplinary approaches to advance our understanding of FCD II.
Multi-Geophysical Information Neural Network for Seismic Tomography
Authors: Xue Zhiwen , Wang Yihao , Wu Xinming , Ma Jianwei
Published: February 2025

Velocity is a key parameter in geophysics, particularly in near-surface studies, where subsur face structures are shaped by complex geological processes. Accurate modeling of such struc tures is critical for imaging deeper formations and improving subsurface interpretations. Modern data acquisition techniques, such as digital geological outcrops and micro-logging, provide valuable structural information that enhances the accuracy of near-surface velocity models. Traveltime tomography has long been a widely used approach for near-surface ve locity modeling. However, its application is often constrained by challenges surrounding the management of complex grid configurations and the nonlinear nature of inversion, particu larly when integrating datasets of varying types, scales, and resolutions. Physics-informed neural networks (PINNs) have recently emerged as a promising solution to these challenges. Nevertheless, the inherent underdetermination in inversion means that these methods con tinue to suffer from issues with non-uniqueness and limited resolution, rendering them insufficient for near-surface modeling. To address these challenges, a novel method: the Multi-Geophysical Information Neural Network for Seismic Tomography (MINN-tomo) is proposed. This approach directly incorporates diverse datasets into the loss function, pro viding a unified framework upon which to handle data fusion across different scales during nonlinear inversion. Considering data acquisition for the near surface, geological outcrops and micro-logging are incorporated to ensure spatial continuity and improve the velocity resolution, enhancing the accuracy of the near-surface velocity model. The flexibility and efficiency of MINN-tomo is verified using four representative synthetic models: one fea turing significant near-surface characteristics, one based on the rugged seabed topography of the South China Sea, one derived from the near-surface segment of the Foothill model, and the standard Marmousi model, and the impact of key parameters within the developed framework is evaluated, highlighting its robustness and adaptability
A scoping review of the literature on the application and usefulness of the Problem Management Plus (PM+) intervention around the world
Authors: Mwangala Patrick N. , Makandi Millicent , Kerubo Anita , Nyongesa Moses K. , Abubakar Amina
Published: February 2025

Background

Given the high rates of common mental disorders and limited resources, task-shifting psychosocial interventions are needed to provide adequate care. One such intervention developed by the World Health Organization is Problem Management Plus (PM+).

Aims

This review maps the evidence regarding the extent of application and usefulness of the PM+ intervention, i.e. adaptability, feasibility, effectiveness and scalability, since it was introduced in 2016.

Method

We conducted a scoping review of seven literature databases and grey literature from January 2015 to February 2024, to identify peer-reviewed and grey literature on PM+ around the world.

Results

Out of 6739 potential records, 42 met the inclusion criteria. About 60% of the included studies were from low- and middle-income countries. Findings from pilot/feasibility trials demonstrated that PM+ is feasible, acceptable and safe. Results from definitive randomised controlled trials at short-term follow-up also suggested that PM+ is effective, with overall moderate-to-large effect sizes, in improving symptoms of common mental health problems. Although PM+ was more effective in reducing symptoms of common mental disorders, it was found to be costlier compared to usual care in the only study that evaluated its cost-effectiveness.

Conclusions

Our findings indicate that PM+, in its individual and group formats, can be adapted and effectively delivered by trained helpers to target a wide range of common mental health concerns. More effectiveness and implementation evidence is required to understand the long-term impact of PM+, its cost-effectiveness and scalability, and moderators of treatment outcomes such as gender and delivery formats.
Arms Race Control Score Standardizes Residency Applicant Publication Assessment
Authors: Bowers Christian A. , Covell Michael M. , Levy Elad I. , Segura Aaron C. , Varela Samantha , Soliman Mohamed A. R. , Mullin Jeffrey P. , Courville Evan , Quiceno Esteban , Roy Joanna , Moisi Marc , Delashaw Johnny , Hall Daniel E. , Chambless Lola B. , Piccirillo Sara G. M. , Kogan Michael
Published: February 2025

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:

The publication “arms race” refers to the recent, exponential increase in publications among residency “Match” applicants. Total number of residency applicant publications is the strongest predictor of “Match” success in neurosurgery beyond licensing examination scores. This study sought to introduce an objective metric by which publications may be scored to assess residency applicant authorship effort.

METHODS:

A retrospective, quantitative assessment of 537 publications by 57 interviewed applicants at a neurosurgery residency program was conducted from the 2022 to 2023 “Match” cycle. A 4-point scale was used to calculate a Publication Effort Score (PES) for each publication, ranging from a letter/editorial/historical commentary (PES = 1) to a high-effort clinical/basic science/cadaveric study (PES = 4). Each PES was subsequently divided by the applicant's authorship position to assign a corresponding publication value unit (PVU), which was calculated for each applicant publication and summated for an applicant's cumulative PVU (cPVU). An Arms Race Control Score (ARCS) was calculated by eliminating all minimal effort publications (PVU ≤ 1) from the cPVU score.

RESULTS:

Mean publication number among applicants was 9.28 (±10.7), with approximately one-third (31.8%, N = 169) of publications first-authored by an applicant. Approximately one-quarter (26.1%, N = 140) of publications were minimal effort publications. A minority of publications (41.3%, N = 222) had a PVU of greater than 2. ARCS implementation resulted in a major ranking change (±≥5 positions) for 61.4% (N = 35) of applicants, ranging from an increase in 22 positions to a decrease in 26 positions. Following ARCS, four positions changed among applicants ranked 1 to 10.

CONCLUSION:

ARCS standardizes residency applicant publication assessment by attempting to capture applicant authorship effort. ARCS implementation may drive residency applicants to focus on higher effort publications, offering a novel solution to the publication “arms race.” Automated ARCS scoring for the upcoming “Match” cycle may be calculated using an applicant's last name and publications' PubMed IDs using https://arcscalculator.com.
On Conley theory for generalized Gutierrez-Sotomayor flows
Authors: Lima Dahisy V. de S. , Tenório Denilson
Published: February 2025

This paper presents a study, based on Conley's theory, of continuous flows on singular surfaces that admit singularities such as $n$-sheet cones,
$n$-sheet cross-caps,
$n$-sheet double crossings, $n$-sheet triple crossings, and mixed
Gutierrez-Sotomayor (GS) singularities. These flows are referred to as generalized Gutierrez-Sotomayor (GS) flows.
The Conley index for each type of singularity is computed. Furthermore,
the results from previous works on the local and global existence of Lyapunov functions are extended to encompass generalized GS singularities.
Necessary and sufficient conditions for defining a generalized GS flow on an isolating block are established. Additionally, an alternative formula,
expressed in terms of a deeper dynamical perspective, for computing the Euler-Poincaré characteristic of generalized GS manifolds is introduced.
Realidad y ficción en la obra de Thomas Brussig. La película de Sonnenallee.
Authors: Díaz Caro Paloma
Published: February 2025

La nostalgia de la RDA, llamada Ostalgie, se define como
una valoración positiva que los nuevos ciudadanos de
Alemania hacen retrospectivamente, tras la caída del
muro, de la vida en la Alemania oriental (Neller 2006).
Esta temática está presente en obras de literatura y de
cine, como la novela Am Kürzeren Ende der Sonnenallee
(Brussig 1999) y la película Sonnenallee dirigida por
Leander Haußmann. Este artículo estudia la presencia de
la Ostalgie en estas obras y lo relaciona con la importancia
de la música Rock & Roll en la vida de los personajes.
El concepto de la Ostalgie implica una nostalgia hacia
el Este y una valoración demasiado positiva de la RDA
que, según Bouvier (2002), solo fue posible porque la
RDA se integró en la RFA. Pero Ostalgie es también una
añoranza por una época en la que dominó una dictadura.
Por ello puede decirse que en Sonnenalle se articula
una relación compleja entre realidad y ficción, en la que
Brussig utiliza el humor para embellecer el recuerdo del
pasado.
Códigos bajo la lupa. Los casos del municipio de Lanús (provincia de Buenos Aires) y del municipio capital (provincia de San Juan) (2008-2022), Argentina.
Authors: Galgano Matías N. , Alcaide-Olivera María Sol
Published: February 2025

El presente artículo pretende describir el estado de situación de los códigos de edificación y/o planeamiento urbano (CE), así como también normativa complementaria,
de los municipios de Lanús (Provincia de Buenos Aires) y el departamento Capital
(Provincia de San Juan) en Argentina. La metodología no obedeció a un enfoque comparado, pero las simetrías y asimetrías entre la unidad de análisis (CE) se analizaron
con dimensiones comunes. Bajo una metodología cualitativa se describen los puntos
de relevancia y las vacancias que impiden que los gobiernos locales sean actores
activos del desarrollo urbano integral. El trabajo resulta un aporte introductorio, desde los estudios de casos, a los abordajes teórico-metodológicos de las normativas y
las planificaciones urbano-territoriales.
Innovative climate resilient indigenous food system combining “Water Taro, Shrimp, Eel and Water Cress in Vanuatu – Scaling Up”.
Authors: Domínguez-Llosa Ricardo
Published: February 2025

Vanuatu, an archipelagic nation in the South Pacific, faces significant challenges due
to climate change, including rising sea levels, increased frequency and intensity of
natural disasters, and threats to food security. The integration of four components of
the food system creates a symbiotic relationship that enhances the overall
productivity and sustainability.
Key challenges faced in implementing this integrated food system include limited
access to knowledge and resources, the need for community participation and
capacity building, and the potential impacts of natural disasters. To address these
challenges, the project has employed various solutions, such as providing training
and technical support to farmers, establishing community organizations, and
developing disaster risk management plans.
The integrated food system has achieved significant results and impacts, including
increased crop yields, improved food security, and greater resilience to climate
change. Farmers have reported higher incomes and improved livelihoods, while the
local environment has benefited from the sustainable land management practices
employed.
In conclusion, the integration of water taro, shrimp, eels, and watercress in Vanuatu
demonstrates the potential of innovative and climate-resilient indigenous food
systems to improve food security and resilience to climate change. The success of
this system underscores the importance of collaboration, community participation,
and the integration of traditional knowledge with modern sustainable land
management practices. By scaling up this approach, Vanuatu and other nations can
work towards building more resilient and sustainable food systems for the future.
An Empirical Investigation into the Prevalence and Impacts of Complicating Environmental Factors in Published Interfaces/IJAA Projects
Authors: Gorman Michael F.
Published: February 2025

This research finds that complicating environmental factors directly affect the efficacy modeling approaches in applied projects. Failure to recognize these factors directly affects the modeling effort's usefulness and success. Practitioners must be aware of such factors and deal with them during the model development process or risk failure. Researchers should consider modeling approaches that are more useful in an applied setting, and consider pursuing lines of research on modeling/environment interactions.
Double-sided gastric perforation after a motorcycle accident in Korea: A case report
Authors: Cho In Soo , Park Chan Hee , Lee Jeong Woo
Published: February 2025

BACKGROUND

Motorcycle accidents often result in abdominal trauma in patients seeking emergency care. Injuries to the hollow viscera, including the duodenum, jejunum, urinary bladder, and colorectum, are relatively common. In contrast, owing to the protective function of the anterior rib cage, gastric rupture is exceptionally rare, with an incidence of < 1.7%. Gastric rupture typically occurs in the anterior wall and rarely presents as multiple ruptures. This report describes an unusual case of multiple gastric ruptures resulting from blunt trauma.

CASE SUMMARY

A 21-year-old man, who was involved in a motorcycle collision at 70 km/hour after consuming a large meal, presented with hypotension. Physical examination revealed abdominal tenderness. Laboratory test results indicated elevated amylase, lipase, and liver enzyme levels. Computed tomography showed pneumoperitoneum, hemoperitoneum, and gastric wall discontinuation, suggesting gastric perforation alongside pancreatic, splenic, and hepatic injuries. Angiographic embolization was performed because of active contrast leakage in the left gastric and right gastroepiploic arteries. Emergency laparotomy revealed substantial blood loss, hematoma, and gastric contents scattered throughout the abdominal cavity. Two 10 cm gastric perforations in the anterior and posterior walls were identified, as well as severe liver damage, splenic injury, and pancreatic contusion. Surgical interventions included primary closure of the gastric wall, splenectomy, and partial hepatectomy. After temporary abdominal closure, the patient underwent a second surgery without further bleeding. The gastric repair site was resected and reinforced for optimal tissue healing.

CONCLUSION

Gastric rupture following blunt trauma is fatal. However, patients without severe complications can recover through surgical interventions and postoperative care.
Keeping the Rat-Book: Marly and Visceral Histories of Jamaican Agriculture
Authors: Myers Jacob
Published: February 2025

Abstract: This essay analyzes descriptions of cane-rats, and rat-eating in particular, in Jamaica during the age of abolition. Reading the anonymous 1828 white creole novel Marly alongside natural histories and vernacular texts, I argue that the rat's viscerality—its ability to evoke strong, unmanageable feeling—disrupted proslavery writers' attempts to leverage the animal for their propaganda. Enslaved Jamaicans, in particular, kept their own histories of the cane-rat, its importation to the island, and its associated cuisine which centered their endurance in the face of enslaver cruelty and incompetence. This essay takes inspiration from a Creole dinner grace about the cane-rat and follows how the rat "ticks" to all Jamaican actors. I argue that its ability to manifest its own plantation networks undermines colonial narratives about agricultural productivity, racial alterity, and the civilizing progress of Jamaican slavery.
Yearning to "Break Their Yoke in Ireland": Robert Emmet, Irish American Republicanism, and Charles Brockden Brown
Authors: Kamrath Mark L.
Published: February 2025

Abstract: Contrary to readings of Brown's early novels that understand him as viewing the Irish as "savage" or "alien," this essay examines his depiction of the Irish over the course of his career in his political pamphlets, periodical publications, and editing against the Irish struggle for liberty and independence from England. It argues that court speeches like those of Robert Emmet in 1803 circulated in American print culture and inspired William Duane, Brown, and others to publish material that was sympathetic to the Irish cause. While Brown's understanding of the British "yoke" of oppression may be seen as originating with his lived experience during the American Revolution, it evolves over time in his fiction, his political pamphlet An Address to the United States (1803), his Literary Magazine and American Register (1803–7), his American Register: A Repository of History, Politics, and Science (1807–9), and his Address to Congress in 1809. The ability to search Brown's larger corpus of writing electronically alongside databases like Readex's America's Historical Newspapers (1690–1922) invites similar study of other authors, such as Hugh Henry Bracken-ridge, whose writings contain depictions of the Irish or Ireland, and highlights the ways digital analysis of archival materials can map textual traces of sentiment or ideology into larger patterns of meaning.
Examining media bias and geopolitical proxy framing effects on media representations of the Palestinian–Israeli conflict in Taiwan: A computational framing analysis
Authors: Kang Yowei , Yang Kenneth C. C.
Published: February 2025

This study employed a computational framing analysis to examine media representations of the Palestinian–Israeli conflict between 7 and 14 October 2023. This study integrated media framing, media bias and geopolitical framing literature to examine if these factors could explain how this global tragedy was framed and if variations exist between established news and social media. Based on the analysis of a corpus of 3864 articles, we found that the media’s political biases played a less explanatory and consistent role in reporting the Palestinian–Israeli conflict. Instead, we observed media ideologies interacting with proxy geopolitical framing influence from outside could have shaped how Taiwanese news and social media organizations represented the Palestinian–Israeli conflict. This study reported statistically significant and consistent variations in Taiwanese media representations of the Palestinian–Israeli conflict between pro-China/unification, pro-Kuomintang and conservative/right-leaning news organizations and pro-Taiwan independence, left-leaning, pro-incumbent Democratic Progressive Party The Liberty Times. Using a topic modelling technique, we found that pro-China/conservative news media sided with China to hold a more pro-Palestinian stance by framing the conflict as a result of Israel’s long suppression of people living in the Gaza Strip and the West Bank as the cause of the conflict and place much emphasis on Israel’s actions on humanitarian casualties. On the other hand, the pro-Taiwan news media aligned with the United States to focus more on pro-Israel news coverage, its attacks and counterattacks, and global responses. Additionally, social media netizens’ comments centre on the underlying causes of the Palestinian–Israeli conflict but do not align with the mainstream news media and are less affected by the proxy geopolitical framing effects.
Gene Polymorphism of Antigen B Subunit 2 and Pathogenesis of Cystic Echinococcosis in Murine Model
Authors: Alsakee Hadi M. , Abdulla Hussein M. , Albarzanji Reshna K.
Published: February 2025

A complex genetic diversity among the causative agent, Echinococcus granulosus, is documented. Antigen B (AgB) is a major antigenic fraction of hydatid fluid and hydatid cyst tissues. This study aims to investigate the role of antigen B subunit 2 (AgB2) gene polymorphism in the pathogenesis of cystic echinococcosis (CE) in murine model. Ovine liver hydatid cysts are obtained from Erbil Slaughterhouse. Protoscoleces from each isolate are separated into two batches. First preserved at −20°C for molecular analysis whereas the second is used for experimental infection in mice. Parasite DNA was extracted, and AgB2 genome was amplified and sequenced. The sequencing profile of six of the isolates (1, 2, 3, 5, 8, and 11) revealed a 100% analogy with AgB2 gene of E. granulosus genotype G2. Minor sequence polymorphisms, 1.67%, are observed in one of the isolates, whereas remarkable DNA sequence polymorphisms are noticed in three of the isolates. The polymerase chain reaction (PCR) products sequencing profiles revealed 100% polymorphisms in four of the isolates in comparison with the source gene (AY569356.1), instead, those isolates reveal various degrees of analogy, 80.33%, 80.87–89.05%, and 89.36% to G1, G3, and G6, respectively. Polymorphic sequencing profile of the PCR-amplified product (250 bp) of E. granulosus clone EgB2G2v13 AgB2 gene (Accession no.: AY569356.1) has no significant impact on the pathogenicity of the CE in murine model. To upgrade the diagnostic sensitivity rates of theimmunological techniques, a mixture of native hydatid antigens containing AgB is recommended to be used in the ser-diagnosis of this infection.
Milestones in the Field of Tumour Microenvironment Contributions and Perspectives of Professor Isaac P. Witz
Authors: Levy-Nissenbaum Orlev
Published: February 2025

As we are now celebrating the 70th birthday of Professor Isaac P. Witz, a leading and pivotal figure in the field of tumour microenvironment, this is an appropriate opportunity to review the milestones in this area, which parallel the scientific career of Professor Witz at the Department of Cell Research and Immunology at Tel Aviv University during the past forty years. Since 1967 Professor Witz has dedicated a major portion of his research career to investigating the "tumour microenvironment". It all began in studies on the role of the immune system in the defence against tumours. The rationale for initiating studies on ""in-situ tumour immunity" was that "there is no reason to assume that expression of immunity is the same in all parts of the body" including the tumour site. Witz et al. showed that various types of in vivo propagating cancer cells in rats, mice and humans are coated with an "immunoglobulin (Ig) coat". This coat consisted of a mixture of tumourreactive antibodies, undetectable in the circulation, and of unrelated immune complexes. In addition, immunoglobulins which totally lacked specificity to the tumour cells, and antibodies directed against membrane antigens expressed on normal and on tumour cells were detected. These findings led to a detailed study of the expression of Fc-receptors (FcR) on tumour cells. Such receptors were indeed detected on certain in vivo growing mouse tumours. Moreover, it could be shown later that the expression of FcR in FcR-positive cells was induced by microenvironmental factors such as INFγ. Surprisingly, transfection of FcγRII cDNA into FcRnegative tumour cells enhanced the tumorigenicity of the transfectants. Importantly, expression of FcR by tumour cells was lost and their tumorigenicity was attenuated following their adoption into culture. These experiments led to the conclusion that FcR exerted tumour-enhancing activity by delivering "malignancyenhancing signals" to the tumour cells. Further studies conducted by Professor Witz and others established the role and implications of FcR tumorigenicity. Another set of studies was aimed at exploring the mutual interactions between tumour cells and microenvironment. For instance, it was shown that tumour-derived proteolytic enzymes were able to degrade Ig molecules in their microenvironment. This activity eliminated Fcmediated functions of the antibodies such as complement-dependent cytotoxicity, and generated "blocking" Fab fragments that actually protected tumour cells from cytotoxic activity.
Exploring technical implications and design opportunities for interactive and engaging telepresence robots in rehabilitation – results from an ethnographic requirement analysis with patients and health-care professionals
Authors: Unbehaun David , Kirsch Marcel , Schulte-Huermann Johannes , Beckmann Julia , Schulz Dominik , Thiel Katharina , Fritz Thomas , Wulf Volker
Published: February 2025

This paper explores technical implications and design opportunities that are conceptualized to inform a socio-robotic system with digital applications to support the recovery process of patients within a rehabilitation facility. By conducting observations and interviews with patients and therapists, we identified key challenges and design opportunities in a specific orthopaedic rehabilitation context and process. The findings indicate the design potentials of a socio-robotic system to enhance patient engagement and recovery by providing personalized activities, a meaningful interaction and a motivating surrounding by using music-based exercises. Our research suggests that integrating digital applications with robotic systems may be used in the long-run to offer tailored exercises, stimulating concepts to motivate and maintain patients in therapy process, real-time feedback, and data-driven progress tracking, thereby improving the overall therapeutic outcomes. By addressing these factors, our proposed socio-robotic system aims to create a more interactive and engaging orthopaedic rehabilitation experience and environment, ultimately supporting patient recovery and improving overall treatment.
Luck Egalitarianism, Exploitation, and the Normative Foundations of Socialism
Authors: MacRae Callum Zavos
Published: February 2025

According to a prominent account, the central normative commitments of socialism are a luck egalitarian principle of equality and a principle of community or solidarity. The model has a number of attractions. However, it appears to be vulnerable to a series of objections that have been pressed against luck egalitarian accounts of the concept of exploitation. In this paper I argue that, despite some overlooked flexibility, the exploitation objection represents a serious challenge to this model and provides a good reason to explore alternative accounts of socialism’s normative grounds.
Bending of wavy spider web honeycomb sandwich structures using PLA
Authors: Solak Alparslan , Aşçıoğlu Temiztaş Birgül , Bolat Berna
Published: February 2025

This study investigates the bending performance of wavy spider web honeycomb sandwich structures produced using polylactic acid (PLA) through 3D printing technology. The primary objective is to enhance mechanical efficiency per unit mass by integrating wave and spider web profiles, a novel approach in the literature. Tensile specimens and sandwich structures were manufactured according to ASTM standards, and their mechanical properties, including stress-strain curves, modulus of elasticity, and Poisson’s ratio, were determined through tensile tests. Bending tests on straight, wavy, and spider web designs were conducted to obtain force-deformation curves and post-testing damage images. Finite element models in Ls-Dyna, validated by experimental data, showed that the wavy model achieved the highest specific energy absorption (sEA) while the spider web model exhibited the highest specific peak crushing force (sPCF). The wavy spider web model demonstrated the second-highest values for both metrics, supporting the development of next-generation sandwich structures where specific strength and energy absorption are critical.
Etched in Stone: The Kevermes Stone Stela From the Great Hungarian Plain
Authors: Gyucha Attila , Bóka Gergely , Kasztovszky Zsolt , Miklós Dóra Georgina , Galaty Michael L. , Ward Timothy J. , Szemerey-Kiss Balázs , Riebe Danielle J. , Stibrányi Máté , Pethe Mihály , Kreiter Attila
Published: February 2025

The origin and authenticity of artifacts unearthed outside controlled archaeological excavations pose challenges for archaeologists, especially when they do not fit established patterns in the archaeological record. This article presents a detailed analysis of a stone stela discovered in non-professional circumstances on the Great Hungarian Plain. The stela’s engraved design, previously unknown in the regional archaeological record, closely resembles that of a slab in the Gavrinis passage grave in Bretagne, France. In addition to the provenance of the rock, our investigations specifically focused on the identification of the find context and the authenticity of the engravings. The results thus far support the engravings’ authenticity and suggest that the stela was removed from a Yamnaya kurgan and repurposed several millennia later. We argue that the Kevermes stela testifies to complex dynamics of long-distance mobility and cultural exchange in Europe during the late fourth and the first half of the third millennium BC.
The Boundaries of the Jobseeker Category in Europe
Authors: Clegg Daniel
Published: February 2025

Support for the unemployed, through income transfers and public employment programmes and services, is a core area of welfare state activity. While comparative welfare state research focuses mainly on cross-national differences in the level of this support, the development of a harmonized statistical definition of unemployment has tended to obscure continuing variations among welfare states in the extent to which situations of need are administratively recognized as unemployment in the first place. This paper illustrates this by focusing on the related but distinct category of jobseekers. Using aggregate data, it shows that the boundaries of the jobseeker category are drawn highly variably across European welfare states. Deeper comparison of two country cases then illustrates how this variation is partly shaped by the differential classification of similar needs – specifically, in these cases, of people in marginal employment – as a result of the operation of the welfare state itself.
A Democracia na Escola: Conceções de Alunos de Espanha e Portugal
Authors: Belavi Guillermina , Fernandes Preciosa , Marinho Paulo , Moreno-Medina Irene
Published: February 2025

O artigo tem como objetivo identificar e caracterizar conceções de alunos sobre democracia em escolas públicas de Espanha e Portugal. Para o efeito, foi realizado um estudo fenomenográfico, no qual participaram 30 alunos – Espanha (15) e Portugal (15). Os dados foram recolhidos através de uma entrevista fenomenográfica. Os resultados sugerem duas principais conceções de democracia: delegativa e participativa. Na primeira, os alunos associam a democracia à eleição de pessoas para ocupar cargos educacionais (órgãos de gestão e cargos de lideranças e estruturas representativas dos alunos). Na segunda, vinculam a democracia à possibilidade de participação direta em assuntos educacionais dando opinião, tomando parte das decisões ou assumindo responsabilidades no desenvolvimento efetivo de ações no quotidiano escolara. Este estudo evidencia que as escolas são contextos férteis para a aprendizagem democrática e reforça a compreensão de que as experiências educacionais dos alunos desempenham um papel fundamental na construção de uma visão sobre democracia.
Calcified Coronary Artery Disease: Pathology, Prevalence, Predictors and Impact on Outcomes
Authors: McInerney Angela , Hynes Seán O , Gonzalo Nieves
Published: February 2025

Calcified coronary artery disease is a common clinical finding and is visible angiographically in 25–30% of patients presenting for percutaneous coronary intervention. The presence of coronary calcium, even without coronary artery obstruction, confers an adverse clinical prognosis. Coronary calcium score on CT is additive in predicting risk of cardiovascular events beyond traditional scoring systems. Deposition of calcium in coronary arteries is initiated by the formation of an atherosclerotic plaque. Thereafter, multiple processes and pathways are involved, resulting in initial microcalcifications that coalesce into calcium sheets. Calcified nodules are thought to occur from rupture of these sheets. Calcified coronary stenoses requiring revascularisation result in greater target lesion failure and overall major adverse cardiovascular events than non-calcified lesions, regardless of the mode of revascularisation. Modifying calcium prior to stenting to optimise stent expansion is required and intracoronary imaging can greatly facilitate not only the detection of coronary calcium, but also the confirmation of adequate modification and stent optimisation. In this review, the authors examine the pathophysiology, prevalence, predictors and impact on outcomes of coronary calcium.
Metric Semigroups and Groups of Multisets
Authors: Dolishniak D.Y. , Zagorodnyuk A.V.
Published: February 2025

We investigate the algebraic and topological properties of sets of complex multisets associated with Banach spaces having symmetric bases. We consider algebraic structures on the sets of multisets and compare some natural metrics on the (semi)groups of multisets. Also, we construct nonlinear analogs of the weighted backward shift operator on metric spaces of multisets, establish conditions of topological transitivity, and prove an analog of the Topological Transitivity Criterion for metric semigroups.