bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Anatomical mapping of neural lineages expressing the transient receptor potential vanilloid type 1 receptor using a modified and combined PACT and CUBIC protocol for rapid tissue clearance
Authors: Kitzerow Oliver , Christensen Samuel , Hong Juan , Adam Ryan J. , Zucker Irving H. , Jensen‐Smith Heather , Wang Han‐Jun
Published: January 2025

Aim

Tissue clearance is a rapidly evolving technology that allows for the three‐dimensional imaging of intact biological tissues. Preexisting tissue‐clearing techniques, such as Passive Clarity Technique (PACT) and Clear Unobstructed Brain Imaging Cocktails and Computational Analysis (CUBIC), clear tissues adequately but have distinct disadvantages, such as taking extensive time to clear tissues and degradation of endogenous tissue fluorescence. We developed a new tissue‐clearing technique combining PACT and CUBIC protocols to map the neural lineages expressing the transient receptor potential vanilloid type 1 (TRPV1) receptor.

Methods

To test the effectiveness of this modified protocol, a TdTomato reporter mouse line was crossed with a separate mouse line containing Cre recombinase under the control of the TRPV1 promoter, which would result in TRPV1 cell lineages expressing green fluorescence protein (GFP).

Results

Compared to the PACT protocol that requires several weeks to months for tissue clearance, our approach reached a satisfactory clearance within 3 days in all neural tissues as well as several non‐neural tissues such as colon, duodenum, and pancreas. Compared to the CUBIC approach, all tissues reserved strong GFP fluorescence. Robust GFP fluorescence was visualized in sensory neuronal soma but not in sympathetic ganglia neuronal soma. On the other hand, GFP fluorescence in the TRPV1 cells appeared to be expressed throughout the epithelium of the duodenum and colon and the arteriole smooth muscle in all non‐neuronal tissues.

Conclusion

This study shows that our combined PACT and CUBIC (CPC) protocol can clear tissues in significantly less time while preserving tissue integrity and fluorescence.
‘Parents Are the First Tutors of Their Child’: Parents' Perception of Responsibility on Practicing Speech–Language Home Program During COVID‐19 Lockdown
Authors: Wong Yee Yan , Yap Joo Siew , Chu Shin Ying , Smith Giuditta , Woi Pui Juan , Chai Siaw Chui , Ng Lay Shi , Lin Ling‐Yi , Garraffa Maria
Published: January 2025

Background and Objectives

Some families faced difficulties accessing speech therapy in some areas of Malaysia and/or during the COVID‐19 lockdown. Therefore, parent‐mediated intervention could be one of the ways to solve this issue, as it has been proven to effectively improve communication skills among children with communication disorders. Hence, a Mandarin parental guidebook comprising a series of language stimulation activities was developed to explore the perception of parents of children with communication disorders, ranging from 3 to 6 years old, regarding the feasibility of (1) conducting speech–language home programs and (2) using a home‐based parental guidebook as a tool to deliver a speech–language home program.

Design, Setting and Participants

Semistructured interviews were conducted with nine Malaysian parents of child (ren) with communication disorders, who fulfilled the inclusionary criteria. Parents had attempted the speech–language home program by using the guidebook prior to the interview. The participants were subjected to 45‐min to 1‐h interviews. The interviews were audio‐ or video‐recorded for verbatim transcription. Thematic analysis was used for data interpretation.

Results

Four main themes were identified: (1) ‘Golden Period’: a guidebook to deliver speech–language home program, (2) perception of the speech–language home program among parents of children with communication disorders, (3) challenges faced by parents when practicing speech–language home program and (4) suggestions for improvements: parent's needs. The themes informed the perspective of parents towards the user experience of the parental guidebook, the feasibility of the speech–language home program and their recommendations. Overall, participants conveyed positive responses on the parental guidebook.

Conclusions

Malaysian parents face difficulties in accessing speech therapy because of limited numbers of SLTs, geographical barriers, financial constraints, availability of facilities and so forth. Findings could assist SLTs in adopting a family‐centred approach in their service delivery, thus increasing the cost‐effectiveness of their service delivery.
Genomic Insights Into Red Squirrels in Scotland Reveal Loss of Heterozygosity Associated With Extreme Founder Effects
Authors: Marr Melissa M. , Humble Emily , Lurz Peter W. W. , Wilson Liam A. , Milne Elspeth , Beckmann Katie M. , Schoenebeck Jeffrey , Fung Uva‐Yu‐Yan , Kitchener Andrew C. , Kortland Kenny , Edwards Colin , Ogden Rob
Published: January 2025

Remnant populations of endangered species often have complex demographic histories associated with human impact. This can present challenges for conservation as populations modified by human activity may require bespoke management. The Eurasian red squirrel, Sciurus vulgaris (L., 1758), is endangered in the UK. Scotland represents a key stronghold, but Scottish populations have been subjected to intense anthropogenic influence, including widespread extirpations, reintroductions and competition from an invasive species. This study examined the genetic legacy of these events through low coverage whole‐genome resequencing of 106 red squirrels. Previously undetected patterns of population structure and gene flow were uncovered. One offshore island, four mainland Scottish populations, and a key east‐coast migration corridor were observed. An abrupt historical population bottleneck, related to extreme founder effects, has led to a severe and prolonged depression in genome‐wide heterozygosity, which is amongst the lowest reported for any species. Current designated red squirrel conservation stronghold locations do not encompass all existing diversity. These findings highlight the genetic legacies of past anthropogenic influence on long‐term diversity in endangered taxa. Continuing management interventions and regular genetic monitoring are recommended to safeguard and improve future diversity.
Gaslight, gatekeep, girlboss: Succession support for daughters in the family business
Authors: Sabatini Alexa M.
Published: January 2025

The recent rise in the number of daughters taking over their family businesses has attracted the attention of both the media and academia. This may be attributed to a general societal push towards gender equality and the recent focus on the “me too” movement. Some scholars even assert a trend away from male‐dominated workplaces and making massive strides towards gender equality in the workplace. This phenomenon has also demonstrated the immense difficulties businesses face when experiencing shifts in leadership, emphasizing that more can be done to support women in their pursuit of success. This Note proposes per‐share, incremental discounts for women‐run family firms listed on the NYSE, supporting cultural change from within.
Clusters of Patient Empowerment and Mental Health Literacy Differentiate Professional Help‐Seeking Attitudes in Online Mental Health Communities Users
Authors: Bizzotto Nicole , de Bruijn Gert‐Jan , Schulz Peter Johannes
Published: January 2025

Objectives

Grounded in the Health Empowerment Model, which posits that health literacy and patient empowerment are intertwined yet distinct constructs, this study investigates how the interplay of these factors influences attitudes toward seeking professional psychological help in members of online communities for mental health (OCMHs). This while acknowledging the multidimensionality of patient empowerment, encompassing meaningfulness, competence, self‐determination, and impact.

Design and Methods

A cluster analysis of data gathered from 269 members of Italian‐speaking OCMHs on Facebook has been performed.

Results

Four profiles have been identified: dangerous self‐managers (11.2%), effective self‐managers (21.2%), disempowered (40.5%) and ambivalent empowered (27.1%). Clusters provided meaningful variations in help‐seeking attitudes, also when controlling for depression and anxiety severity, F3, 265 = 11.910, p < 0.001.

Conclusions

The findings provided further evidence of the multidimensionality of patient empowerment. Considering the results, we discussed potential interventions aimed at enhancing the quality of OCMHs, tailoring to the unique characteristics of each cluster.

Patient or Public Contribution

Administrators and moderators of mental health Facebook communities—whether expert‐led by mental health professionals or peers—played a key role in this study. They provided valuable insights during the questionnaire design process to ensure the questions were both relevant and appropriate for community members. These administrators and moderators also actively facilitated participant recruitment by creating and sharing posts, either video‐ or text‐based, on community homepages. Furthermore, after completing the questionnaire, participants were encouraged to comment on the Facebook posts where the survey link was shared, mentioning that they participated and inviting other members to take part. This approach aimed to foster a sense of involvement and further promoted the survey within the community.
Feasibility and surgical outcomes of simultaneous urethral reconstruction for synchronous urethral strictures
Authors: Furukawa Yoshiyuki , Horiguchi Akio , Shinchi Masayuki , Ojima Kenichiro , Segawa Yuhei , Takekawa Kazuki , Minami Takahiro , Masumoto Hakaru , Suzuki Sadayoshi , Katsuta Jumpei , Watanabe Daisuke , Ito Keiichi
Published: January 2025

Objectives

To evaluate the feasibility and surgical outcomes of simultaneous urethral reconstruction for synchronous urethral strictures (SUS) and analyze the surgical techniques employed for different stricture combinations.

Methods

Twenty‐two male patients with SUS who underwent urethral reconstruction between February 2018 and July 2023 were retrospectively reviewed. Stricture locations and lengths were evaluated using cystoscopy and urethrography after urethral rest for at least 3 months. Multiple reconstruction techniques were employed based on stricture characteristics, including anastomotic urethroplasty, substitution urethroplasty, staged urethroplasty, perineal urethrostomy, and deep lateral incision of the bladder neck. Anatomical success was defined as the ability to pass a cystoscope without resistance and void without additional interventions.

Results

The median age was 72, with iatrogenic causes accounting for 77.2%. The most common stricture combination was strictures at the penoscrotal junction and proximal bulbar urethra (59.1%). Two (9.1%) had strictures in three locations, and one (4.5%) had strictures in four locations. A total of 15 different combinations of reconstruction techniques were utilized to address various stricture patterns. Overall, 86.4% were treated in one stage. The median operation time was 177 min, and the median blood loss was 72 mL. At a median follow‐up of 31 months, anatomical success was achieved at 77.3%. No perioperative complications were observed.

Conclusions

Simultaneous repair of SUS is feasible using various reconstructive techniques tailored to each stricture site. The high prevalence of iatrogenic etiology and previous transurethral treatments emphasize the importance of appropriate initial management of urethral strictures.
Immunotherapy Using HBV Vaccine Pulsed DCs and Induced T‐Cells Combined Antiviral Drugs in Treatment Naive CHB Patients‐A Multi‐Centre Phase II Study
Authors: Gu Yurong , Gu Lin , Chen Lubiao , Li Jing , Liao Chunhong , Bi Yanhua , Huang Zexuan , Cai Wei , Wei Jia , Huang Yuehua
Published: January 2025

Dendritic cells are the most potent antigen‐presenting cells in immune therapeutic approaches for chronic hepatitis B (CHB) infection. Here, we developed a clinical trial to evaluate the efficacy and safety of autologous HBV vaccine‐pulsed DCs and their induced T cells (HPDCT) in CHB patients. This was a randomised, prospective, open‐label, multicentre, superiority study and 309 treatment‐naive CHB patients were divided into HPDCT plus nucleos(t)ide analogues (NAs) group (n = 84), NAs mono‐therapy group (n = 82), HPDCT plus Peg‐interferon (Peg‐IFN) group (n = 69), Peg‐IFN mono‐therapy group (n = 74). Twelve times of HPDCT vaccinations were given intravenously, and all the patients were followed up for 72 weeks. In total, 1836 HPDCT infusions were administered with no obvious toxicity and side effect although few patients had self‐limited low fever. More patients got HBsAg loss in those receiving HPDCT therapy. Patients of HPDCT plus Peg‐IFN group with HBV DNA < 1 × 107 IU/mL at baseline exhibited earlier, stronger and longer lasting of viral response, especially HBV DNA < 20 IU/mL, than those patients of Peg‐IFN mono‐therapy group, from week 24 till week 72 (p < 0.05). Comparable efficacy was observed between the patients of HPDCT plus NAs group and NAs mono‐therapy groups. In addition, CD25 on CD8+ T cells and HBV‐specific CD8+ T cell increased significantly in patients of HPDCT combined antiviral drugs therapy. HPDCT combined with antiviral drugs was safe and able to enhance T cell immunity. Furthermore, HPDCT combined with Peg‐IFN could provide an incremental benefit to patients with baseline levels of lower HBV DNA.

Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT01935635
Heterogeneity in Risk and Implications for Hepatitis C Reinfection in People Who Inject Drugs in England
Authors: Hilton Bryn , De Angelis Daniela , Mitchell Holly , Harris Ross
Published: January 2025

Chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is associated with significant morbidity, mortality and health economic burden. Over 90% of HCV cases in England occur in people who inject drugs (PWID). Current treatments for HCV are effective but do not protect against reinfection. This research characterised HCV infection and reinfection risk in PWID in England using 2011–2021 data from the annual, cross‐sectional, bio‐behavioural survey of PWID, Unlinked Anonymous Monitoring. Risk factors for HCV infection were explored using multivariable logistic regression. Shared frailty models for the force of infection (FOI) were used to estimate the risk of HCV infection throughout injecting career with unmeasured risk variation modelled using gamma‐shaped frailty distributions. HCV reinfection rates were derived using the frailty distributions of FOI models fitted to UAM data. Infection rates were highest in the first year of injecting (24 per 100 person‐years) but fell to between 5 and 8 infections per 100 person‐years subsequently. The estimated average annual risks of HCV primary infection and reinfection were 10.0% and 14.2%, indicating a 42% higher risk of reinfection compared to primary infection. Even those with no a priori risk factors were predicted to have high rates of reinfection if previously infected. These findings support the recognition of primary HCV infection as an independent risk factor for reinfection in PWID and emphasise the importance of reducing high‐risk behaviours to prevent HCV reinfection following treatment of primary infection. Public health policies must recognise the importance of preventing reinfection in efforts to reduce HCV infection prevalence.
Assessment of Surgical Margin of Tongue Squamous Cell Carcinoma via Raman Mapping
Authors: Li Zhongxu , Xue Lili , Dai Xiaobo , Li Zhixin , Wu Zhenxin , Li Yi , Yan Bing
Published: January 2025

Objectives

This study introduces a novel classification approach that combines convolutional neural network (CNN) and Raman mapping to differentiate between tongue squamous cell carcinoma (TSCC) and non‐tumorous tissue, as well as to identify different histological grades of TSCC.

Materials and Methods

In this study, 240 Raman mappings data from 30 tissue samples were collected from 15 patients who had undergone surgical resection for TSCC. A total of 18,000 sub‐mappings extracted from Raman mappings were then used to train and test a CNN model, which extracted feature representations that were subsequently processed through a fully connected network to perform classification tasks based on the Raman mapping data.

Results

The experimental results indicated that the proposed method achieved competitive classification accuracy above 83%. To further validate the effectiveness of the Raman mapping, its performance was compared with Raman spectroscopy, demonstrating a competitive accuracy rate.

Conclusions

The promising outcomes from this application of CNN in Raman mapping suggest that this technique could be a reliable method for intraoperative assessment of surgical margins, potentially leading to shorter detection times.
A Glutamate Receptor‐Like Gene AtGLR2.5 With Its Unusual Splice Variant Has a Role in Mediating Glutamate‐Elicited Changes in Arabidopsis Root Architecture
Authors: Gong Yuan‐Yong , Wu Chang‐Zheng , Wu Yan‐Sheng , Alfieri Andrea , Xiang Yu‐Cheng , Shi Dong‐Xue , Duan Shuhui , Zhang Ming‐Fa , Li Xiao‐Xu , Sun Yi‐Chen , Chao Jin , Tester Mark , Shang Zhonglin , Forde Brian G. , Liu Lai‐Hua
Published: January 2025

The occurrence of external L‐glutamate at the Arabidopsis root tip triggers major changes in root architecture, but the mechanism of ‐L‐Glu sensing is unknown. Members of the family of GLUTAMATE RECEPTOR‐LIKE (GLR) proteins are known to act as amino acid‐gated Ca2+‐permeable channels and to have signalling roles in diverse plant processes. To investigate the possible role of GLRs in the root architectural response to L‐Glu, we screened a collection of mutants with T‐DNA insertions in each of the 20 AtGLR genes. Reduced sensitivity of root growth to L‐Glu was found in mutants of one gene, GLR2.5. Interestingly, GLR2.5 was found to apparently produce four transcript variants encoding hypothetical proteins of 169–720 amino acids. One of these transcripts, GLR2.5c, encodes a truncated GLR protein lacking both the conserved amino‐terminal domain and part of the ligand‐binding domain. When a glr2.5 mutant was transformed with a construct constitutively expressing GLR2.5c, both L‐Glu sensitivity of root growth and L‐Glu‐elicited Ca2+ currents in root tip protoplasts were restored. These results, along with homology modelling of the truncated ligand‐binding domain of GLR2.5c, suggest that GLR2.5c has a regulatory or scaffolding role in heteromeric GLR complex(es) that may involve triggering the root architectural response to L‐Glu.
Reduced Theta Inter‐Trial Phase Coherence in Error Processing: A Marker of Neural Dysfunction in Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
Authors: Devor Tali , Einziger Tzlil , Ben‐Shachar Mattan S. , Klein Christoph , Auerbach Judith G. , Berger Andrea
Published: January 2025

Cognitive control deficits and increased intra‐subject variability have been well established as core characteristics of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and there is a growing interest in their expression at the neural level. We aimed to study neural variability in ADHD, as reflected in theta inter‐trial phase coherence (ITC) during error processing, a process that involves cognitive control. We examined both traditional event‐related potential (ERP) measures of error processing (i.e., error‐related negativity [ERN] and error‐positivity [Pe]) and theta ITC within a prospective longitudinal study of children at familial risk for ADHD. The participants were 63 male adolescents who were followed since birth. At the age of 17 years old, they performed the stop‐signal task (SST) while an electroencephalogram (EEG) recording was continuously carried out. The EEG data from the trials in which the subjects failed to inhibit their response were used to calculate three different neurophysiological measures (i.e., ERN, Pe, and theta ITC). Consistent with our hypotheses, theta ITC during error processing predicted ADHD symptomatology above and beyond the traditional ERP measures. Moreover, we found that ADHD symptoms throughout childhood were uniquely associated with theta ITC, beyond ADHD symptomatology during adolescence. Overall, our findings strengthen the view of increased neural variability (as reflected by theta ITC) as a neurophysiological characteristic of a core neural dysfunction in ADHD.
Oral Manifestations in a Child With Distal Renal Tubular Acidosis, and Refractory Rickets
Authors: Shrivastava Nikhil , Sharma Saurabh , Rahul Morankar , Tewari Nitesh , Bansal Kalpana , Mathur Vijay
Published: January 2025

Renal tubular acidosis (RTA) is a group of disorders in which there is an alteration in acid–base homeostasis because of the impairment of nephrons to excrete hydrogen ions or reabsorb bicarbonate ions, resulting in chronic metabolic acidosis. RTA is an important cause of rickets, particularly ‘resistant rickets’. Dental manifestations frequently reported in patients with RTA include enamel hypoplasia and amelogenesis imperfecta, affecting permanent dentition. To the best of our knowledge, the literature pertaining to the dental manifestations in RTA with secondary rickets is scarce. This case highlights oral manifestations in a 6‐year‐old girl with RTA, distal, four with haemolytic anaemia a rare form diagnosed on genetic testing, and refractory rickets having multiple missing teeth and enamel hypo‐mineralisation. The radiograph revealed alveolar bone loss in both jaws with widened pulp chambers and root canals in primary teeth. Pre‐eruptive enamel breakdown in multiple unerupted permanent teeth was also evident radiographically.
Two Head and Neck Cancers in an Adult With Intellectual Disability and Rett Syndrome: A Case Report
Authors: Anabella Low Yu Xin , Rong Yang Jing , Nagadia Rahul Harshad
Published: January 2025

The cases of head and neck cancer among persons with intellectual disability (PWID) are infrequently reported and therefore poorly understood. PWID often face increased barriers of access to healthcare, which can be further compounded when faced with a cancer diagnosis. This report presents the case of a 34‐year‐old Chinese female patient with Rett syndrome and intellectual disability, presenting with two primary cancers of the tongue and the trachea. The case highlights the importance of regular dental review in cancer surveillance, post‐operative supportive dental care, and challenges in behavioral management in cancer diagnosis and treatment.
Karanga Mai te Pō: Calling on Darkness as Protection Amidst (En)light(ened) Pollution
Authors: Carlson Teah , Liebert Rachel Jane , Reihana Tia
Published: January 2025

The Tīpuna Project is a creative community‐based collaboration between Tangata Whenua (Indigenous) and Pākehā (White settler) researchers, artists and activists in Aotearoa to experiment with the decolonial possibilities of communing with our Indigenous and settler ancestors. In this performative piece we, the co‐leads of The Tīpuna Project, attempt to tell our stories of how we arrived here, honouring our ancestors as co‐researchers in our ‘participatory action research’ (PAR) process, considering and enacting our emerging relationship with each other and with darkness and te pō.

Darkness and te pō help us to exist both because and in spite of a colonial episteme that is violently inhospitable to the more‐than‐human. With them, we move into the cracks, into spaces of entanglement where our senses are heightened and where we are less able to be commanded by binaries, urgency and mastery. And with them, those of us who are Tangata Whenua also move into the caves, into spaces of rest, rhythm, story and breath. These cracks and caves protect us from an (En)light(ened) pollution that otherwise stops us from seeing the stars, enabling us to be (with) our shimmering otherworldly guides – our ancestors, our tīpuna.

In turn, both our project and our collaborative relationship are also (more) sheltered from a colonial hierarchy of Knowing, Knowledge, Knower that structures the colonial episteme. Calling on darkness and te pō, then, is how we struggle for freedom within the colonial academy – an academy within which Indigenous scholars in particular are both disappearing and Still Here.
Exploring Preparedness, Motivation, Communication Tools and Strategies for the Engagement of Facilitators in Interprofessional Education
Authors: Stewart MaryAnne , Banfill Kimberly , Chojnacki Ronette , Greer Jeannetta , McQueen Jamie , Walczyk Mary , Saad Aline
Published: January 2025

Interprofessional education (IPE) case-based events aim to nurture effective communication and active engagement among students from diverse disciplines. Facilitators play a critical role in the success of these events, yet limited research explores how to best prepare and motivate facilitators to fully engage students. This study addresses this gap by examining structured facilitator preparedness, motivational factors, and communication tools that enhance student engagement. Seven facilitators with prior IPE experience participated in semi-structured interviews to share their perspectives on preparation, motivation, and effective communication strategies. The interviews, lasting 45 to 60 minutes, were guided by questions adapted from Dalhousie University's Interprofessional Facilitation Scale (IFS) and included standardized prompts for discussion. Transcriptions of the sessions were analyzed to identify actionable strategies for facilitator development. The results revealed that structured preparation materials, such as case study notes and facilitation guides, significantly enhanced facilitators’ confidence and readiness to lead sessions. Motivation was closely tied to facilitators’ commitment to creating interdisciplinary collaboration and improving student learning outcomes. Effective communication tools, including structured prompts and guided discussion frameworks, were found to support student engagement and meaningful group interactions.This study provides educational institutions with practical strategies for enhancing facilitator training and support, emphasizing the importance of tailored preparation, motivational reinforcement, and effective communication techniques. These findings contribute to the development of stronger interdisciplinary collaboration and enriched student learning experiences in IPE settings.
An Exact Solution Based on a Three-Energy Equation Model for Gaseous Transpiration Cooling Through a Bi-Disperse Porous Medium
Authors: Bai Xiaohui , Zheng Zihao , Liu Cunliang , Nakayama Akira
Published: January 2025

A local thermal nonequilibrium analysis was made to assess the potential use of bi-disperse porous walls for a transpiration cooling system. A three-energy equation model successfully used for the transient thermal analysis of bi-disperse packed bed thermocline storage systems was introduced to investigate various heat transfer aspects of transpiration cooling through a bi-disperse porous wall made of combination of large and small particles. Three independent energy balance equations, namely, the energy equation of the coolant gas phase, that of the solid phase of large particles, and that of small particles are coupled with one another to obtain a set of exact expressions for all three individual temperature distributions across the porous wall for given thermal boundary conditions of the third kind. It has been revealed that the solid wall temperature of the bi-disperse porous wall stays lower than that of the monodisperse porous wall in the high Peclet number range, resulting in a higher overall cooling efficiency for a given blowing flowrate. Furthermore, the analysis provides a suitable range of the Peclet number, under which the transpiration cooling should be operated to suppress excessive heat loss to the coolant reservoir at the same time to ensure a high overall cooling efficiency.
Numerical Simulation of Phase Change Dual-Phase-Lag Bioheat Model With Nanocryosurgery Using Radial Basis Function Meshfree Approach
Authors: Verma Rohit , Kalita Jiten C.
Published: January 2025

The current study is concerned with the numerical simulation of the phase change process in a two-dimensional (2D) dual-phase-lag (DPL) bioheat model applied to nanocryosurgery. A Gaussian radial basis function (RBF) meshfree approach coupled with a Crank–Nicolson type of time discretization is employed on an irregular soft tissue domain. The simulation considers the introduction of three types of nanoparticles (NPs)—gold, alumina oxide, and iron oxide into the cryosurgical process. Temperature profiles were computed for situations both with and without the incorporation of nanoparticles, and the freezing interface was analyzed under different conditions. The results demonstrate the significant influence of nanoparticles on enhancing the freezing process, leading to a more controlled and effective cryoablation. The inclusion of nanoparticles not only accelerates the freezing front but also provides a more uniform temperature distribution within the target tissue. This study highlights the advantages of using a meshfree RBF approach in handling complex geometries, alongside the potential of nanoparticle-enhanced cryosurgery to improve clinical outcomes. These findings contribute valuable insights into the optimization of cryosurgical techniques and the development of more effective cancer treatments.
Effect of Variable Angular Piping Bends Geometry on Turbulent Flow of Supercritical Water in an SCWR Plant Piping Network: A Three-Dimensional Computational Fluid Dynamics Investigation
Authors: Khan Mohammad , Haque Jehad , Islam Saad , Putul Lubon , Hasan Mehedi
Published: January 2025

One of the most critical components of super critical water reactor (SCWR) plant is pipe bend, carrying massive volume of supercritical water. Because of its intense fluctuation of velocity and pressure, it can exhibit unusual flow pattern in pipe bends conveying fluid. This unusual flow pattern may destroy the integrity of the piping network. Alternatively, because of unique chemical and physical properties, transportation of SCW can adversely effect on the integrity of the pipe bends, indicating probable failure of piping network. Therefore, intensive studies of SCW flow in bends are a must as a part of designing an efficient plant piping network. This article presents CFD analysis, carried out to examine the effect of variable pipe bend angle (90 deg, 120 deg, and 135 deg) on turbulent flow of SCW. The analysis indicates that the portion of the straight inlet pipe with fully developed flow shows no variation of results in all bend configurations. The study also reveals that secondary currents strengthen at lower bend angles and culminate the formation of vertices at the outlet of the right-angled elbow. It is found from the study that a greater part of the cross-sectional area is covered by the vortices at the bend midplanes compared to the bend outlets, where mixing of stream wise flow occurs as well. It is revealed that the radial positions of each vortex center are closer to the circumference of the pipe, and appear to be insensitive to bend angle. The study is ended with the comparison between supercritical water and normal water at standard conditions.
Squeezed dual-comb spectroscopy
Authors: Herman Daniel I. , Walsh Mathieu , Kreider Molly Kate , Lordi Noah , Tsao Eugene J. , Lind Alexander J. , Heyrich Matthew , Combes Joshua , Genest Jérôme , Diddams Scott A.
Published: January 2025

Optical frequency combs have enabled distinct advantages in broadband, high-resolution spectroscopy and precision interferometry. However, quantum mechanics ultimately limits the metrological precision achievable with laser frequency combs. Quantum squeezing has led to substantial measurement improvements with continuous wave lasers, but experiments demonstrating metrological advantage with squeezed combs are less developed. Using the Kerr effect in nonlinear optical fiber, a 1-gigahertz frequency comb centered at 1560 nanometers is amplitude-squeezed by >3 decibels (dB) over a 2.5-terahertz bandwidth. Dual-comb interferometry yields mode-resolved spectroscopy of hydrogen sulfide gas with a signal-to-noise ratio nearly 3 dB beyond the shot-noise limit. The quantum noise reduction leads to a twofold quantum speedup in the determination of gas concentration, with implications for high-speed measurements of multiple species in dynamic chemical environments.
Temporal dynamics of airborne fungi in Swedish forest nurseries
Authors: Larsson Rebecca , Menkis Audrius , Olson Åke
Published: January 2025

In Sweden, reforestation of managed forests relies predominantly on planting nursery-produced tree seedlings. However, the intense production using containerized cultivation systems (e.g., high seedling density, irrigation from above, regular fertilization) creates favorable conditions for fungal infections. Despite the harmful role of diseases in forest nurseries, the origin and dispersal factors of fungal pathogens remain largely unknown. A better understanding of the airborne spread of pathogens could improve the prediction of fungal infection, ultimately optimizing preventative methods and decreasing the use of fungicides. This study investigated the temporal dynamics of airborne fungi in forest nurseries, with a focus on fungal pathogens. Airborne fungi were monitored in four Swedish forest nurseries over two growing seasons using spore traps and high-throughput sequencing. Fungal pathogens were identified using bioinformatics and quantified with quantitative PCR. Results showed strong temporal shifts of airborne fungal diversity and community composition following the growing seasons. The airborne spread included high abundances of important fungal pathogens (e.g.,
Cladosporium
sp.,
Botrytis cinerea
,
Alternaria
sp.,
Sydowia polyspora
, and
Melampsora populnea
) with individual temporal and spatial variations. In general, the deposited spore loads of nursery pathogens correlated positively with increased temperature and negatively with higher precipitation. This was expressed the strongest for
Cladosporium
sp.,
Alternaria
sp., and
M. populnea
, which suggests a higher availability of fungal inoculum in warm and dry periods. This study highlights the influence of seasonality on the temporal dynamics of economically important fungal pathogens in Swedish forest nurseries, which should be considered in the development of a local decision support system.

IMPORTANCE

Fungal diseases in forest nurseries have significant environmental and economic impacts on the tree seedling production. This study highlights the role of seasonality in the airborne spread of fungal pathogens in Swedish forest nurseries. By analyzing airborne fungal spores using advanced sequencing and monitoring techniques, key fungal pathogens and their dispersal patterns over two growing seasons were identified. The findings indicate that warmer, drier periods may increase the spread of fungal pathogens, emphasizing the need for targeted preventative measures. Understanding these temporal dynamics can help optimize the use of fungicides in forest nurseries, thereby promoting more sustainable and environmentally friendly management practices. This research provides valuable insights for improving disease management in forest nurseries, ultimately supporting sustainable tree seedling production.
Shewanella
is a putative producer of polyunsaturated fatty acids in the gut soil of the composting earthworm
Eisenia fetida
Authors: Wittlinger Jan-Philpp , Castejón Natalia , Hausmann Bela , Berry David , Schnorr Stephanie L.
Published: January 2025

Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) play a crucial role in aiding bacteria to adapt to extreme and stressful environments. While there is a well-established understanding of their production, accrual, and transfer within marine ecosystems, knowledge about terrestrial environments remains limited. Investigation of the intestinal microbiome of earthworms has illuminated the presence of PUFAs presumably of microbial origin, which contrasts with the surrounding soil. To comprehensively study this phenomenon, a multi-faceted approach was employed, combining fatty acid analysis with amplicon sequencing of the PfaA-KS domain of the anaerobic fatty acid synthase gene (
pfa
), as well as the 16S rRNA and 18S rRNA genes. This methodology was applied to scrutinize the gut microbiome of
Eisenia fetida
, its compost-based dietary source, and the resultant castings. This study unveiled a distinct gut soil ecosystem from input compost and output castings in fatty acid profile as well as type and abundance of organisms. 16S sequencing provided insights into the microbial composition, showing increased relative abundance of certain Pseudomonadota, including
Shewanellaceae
, and Planctomycetota, including
Gemmataceae
within the gut microbiome compared to input bulk soil compost, while Actinomycetota and Bacillota were relatively enriched compared to the casted feces. Sequencing of the PfaA-KS domain revealed amplicon sequence variants (ASVs) belonging primarily to
Shewanella
. Intriguingly, the 20C PUFAs were identified only in gut soil samples, though PfaA-KS sequence abundance was highest in output castings, indicating a unique metabolism occurring only in the gut. Overall, the results indicate that
Shewanella
can explain PUFA enrichment in the gut environment because of the
pfa
gene presence detected
via
PfaA-KS sequence data.

IMPORTANCE

Prior research has demonstrated that earthworm microbiomes can potentially harbor polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) that are not found within their residing soil environment. Moreover, distinct indicator species have been pinpointed for various microbial genera in earthworm microbiomes. Nevertheless, none of these studies have integrated metataxonomic and fatty acid analyses to explore the origin of PUFA synthesis in any earthworm species, with the objective of identifying the specific organisms and locations responsible for this production. This study suggests that earthworms accumulate PUFAs produced from bacteria, especially
Shewanella,
activated through the gut ecosystem.
Adaptation of clinical bacteriology techniques for remote polar research
Authors: Pallett Scott J. C. , Kwok Bill K. , Wong Stephanie M. Y. , Moore Luke S. P.
Published: January 2025

Remote polar regions offer unique opportunities and significant challenges for antimicrobial resistance research in a near-pristine environment. While core microbiology techniques continue to have an important role in supporting environmental research, the severe cold climate presents considerable challenges to laboratory research. We explore adaptations required for core bacteriology investigations in polar regions on an unsupported remote expedition c. 600 km north of the Arctic Circle utilizing the National Collection of Type Culture bacterial strains. Methods of culture, microscopy, biochemical and phenotypic testing, vortex, and centrifuge techniques are explored. Across −21.5 to −41.0°C, culture was satisfactorily enabled using a solar-powered USB incubator and an electricity-free water-bath option utilizing white gas for a variety of standard culture media. Microscopy and biochemical tests supported organism identification. Phenotypic testing for carbapenemase-producing genes using lateral flow devices showed good performance without modification (Carba-5, 20/20 carbapenemase-producing organism tests, 100% sensitivity; 100/100 negative targets, 100% specificity). The modified centrifuge was enabled with a 3D printed disk and Dremel drill and microbial DNA extraction (ZymoBIOMICS) kits were able to extract DNA of suitable quality for analysis. With suitable adaptations, conducting core microbiology techniques (with potential relevance for more advanced techniques) is possible in the remote extreme cold environment.

IMPORTANCE

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) represents one of the key global public health threats currently facing humanity. The recent UN High-Level Meeting on AMR highlighted the need for greater knowledge generation on its environmental aspects while also considering the potential adverse effects of climate change. The polar regions of the world offer a unique opportunity for AMR research in a near-pristine environment while also holding the potential for novel resistance mechanisms and/or antimicrobial peptide discovery within melting permafrost or glacial ice. Despite considerable technological advances in microbiology, operating in severe cold environments continues to present significant operational challenges. Our report here offers a basis for adaptations to enable both environmental and clinical antimicrobial resistance, microbiome, and discovery research for operating in the harshest of remote environments.
Rapid visual detection of hepatitis E virus combining reverse transcription recombinase-aided amplification with lateral flow dipstick and real-time fluorescence
Authors: Wei Bingyan , Wang Wenlong , Guo Zixuan , Yin Wenjiao , Cheng Minheng , Yang Yifei , Tian Yuewei , Sun Yaxin , Liu Tianlong , Hu Yanxin , She Ruiping , Tian Jijing
Published: January 2025

Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is a globally prevalent zoonotic pathogen that is primarily spread through the fecal-oral route, such as by consuming undercooked or contaminated pork. HEV infection leads to an estimated 3.3 million symptomatic cases of viral hepatitis and 70,000 deaths in human populations each year. Therefore, a rapid and accurate method for detecting HEV in serum or stool samples is essential. In this study, we aimed to develop and evaluate two methods for the rapid and convenient detection of HEV RNA: reverse transcription recombinase-aided amplification with lateral flow dipstick (RT-RAA-LFD) and quantitative real-time reverse transcription recombinase-aided amplification (qRT-RAA). We optimized the reaction conditions and assessed their sensitivity and specificity. The RT-RAA-LFD assay completed its reaction at 39°C within 15 minutes, achieving a 95% limit of detection (LOD) of 247 copies/μL. The qRT-RAA assay, completed at 42°C within 20 minutes, had a 95% LOD of 25 copies/μL. Both assays demonstrated no cross-reactivity with other porcine pathogens and exhibited strong specificity. In testing 245 porcine bile and fecal samples, the RT-RAA-LFD assay showed a kappa value of 0.943 (
P
< 0.001) with a 97.14% (238/245) coincidence rate compared with quantitative reverse transcription PCR. Similarly, the qRT-RAA assay achieved a kappa value of 0.976 (
P
< 0.001) with a 98.78% (242/245) coincidence rate. In conclusion, these two RT-RAA assays show promising potential as effective diagnostic tools for broad and efficient screening of swine HEV in veterinary clinics.

IMPORTANCE

Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is a globally widespread zoonotic pathogen that poses a significant public health risk. Swine serve as the primary natural host for zoonotic HEV. This study introduces a rapid and precise method for detecting swine HEV RNA, showcasing its potential as an effective diagnostic tool for comprehensive and efficient screening of swine HEV in veterinary clinics.
Prolonged incubation time unwarranted for acute periprosthetic joint infections
Authors: Morreel E. R. L. , van Dessel H. A. , Geurts J. , Savelkoul P. H. M. , van Loo I. H. M.
Published: January 2025

Current laboratory protocols for periprosthetic joint infections (PJIs) involve a standard 10- to 14-day incubation period. However, recent evidence indicates considerable variability in the time to diagnosis (TTD) between acute and chronic PJIs. TTD is also influenced by the employed culture media and sample types. Enriched liquid media, such as broths and blood culture bottles, along with sonication fluid culture, are commonly used, though their incremental benefit for PJI diagnosis remains debated. We retrospectively analyzed 187 confirmed hip and knee PJIs, each with at least three intraoperative samples. Comparison of TTD among early acute (
n
= 68), late acute (
n
= 52), and late chronic (
n
= 67) PJIs revealed a significant difference, particularly between late acute and late chronic infections (
P
< 0.004). Early acute and late acute PJIs were diagnosed within 5 days in 97.1% and 98.1% of cases, respectively, contrasting with 14 days required for 97.1% of late chronic PJIs. Enriched liquid media significantly improved species detection, especially in polymicrobial and anaerobic infections. Pediatric and anaerobic blood culture bottles demonstrated superior efficacy over thioglycolate broths for diagnostic confirmation. Sonication fluid culture was essential for confirming diagnoses in 17.6% of cases. Our findings highlight that clinical presentation, rather than time since primary arthroplasty, should guide incubation duration: both early acute and late acute PJIs can be diagnosed within 5 days. Medical microbiology laboratories should consider shorter incubation times for acute PJIs to optimize diagnostic efficiency. The use of blood culture bottles and sonication fluid culture proves invaluable for accurate PJI diagnosis.

IMPORTANCE

While molecular techniques are becoming increasingly employed, culture remains the gold standard for diagnosing periprosthetic joint infections. However, guidance for laboratory protocols is limited and highly variable. This article aims to increase diagnostic efficiency by providing concrete recommendations for medical microbiology laboratories.
Structure of the T=13 capsid of infectious pancreatic necrosis virus (IPNV)—a salmonid birnavirus
Authors: Munke Anna , Ahmed Abdelrahim Gamil Amr , Mikalsen Aase B. , Wang Han , Evensen Øystein , Okamoto Kenta
Published: January 2025

Birnaviruses infect a broad range of vertebrate hosts, including fish and birds, and cause substantial economic losses in the fishery and livestock industries. The infectious pancreatic necrosis virus (IPNV), an aquabirnavirus, specifically infects salmonids. While structures on T=1 subviral particles of the birnaviruses, including IPNV, have been studied, structural insights into the infectious T=13 particles have been limited to the infectious bursal disease virus (IBDV), an avibirnavirus. Determining the capsid structure of the T=13 particle of IPNV is crucial for advancing knowledge of its antigenicity, capsid assembly, and possible functional structures. Here, the capsid structure of the IPNV L5 strain has been determined at a resolution of 2.75 Å. The overall structure resembles the T=13 IBDV structure, with notable differences in the surface loops on the P domain of the VP2 capsid protein essential for antigenicity and virulence. Additionally, previously undescribed structural features have been identified, including the C-terminal regions of the VP2 subunits within the pentagonal assembly unit at each 5-fold axis, which interlock with adjacent VP2 subunits. This interlocking, together with class-averaged projections of triangular and pentagonal units, suggests that the pentagonal unit formation could be important for a correct T=13 particle assembly, preventing the formation of T=1 subviral particles. Furthermore, positively charged residues in obstructed capsid pores at each 5-fold axis are speculated to facilitate intraparticle genome synthesis of IPNV.

IMPORTANCE

Aquabirnaviruses cause deadly infectious diseases in salmonid fish, posing significant challenges for both wild and farmed fish populations. The most prevalent aquabirnavirus worldwide is the infectious pancreatic necrosis virus, whose multifunctional capsid is critical to its infection, replication, and maturation. Previously, research has focused on the structure of the virus’ non-infectious subviral capsid. In this study, however, the first structure of the large, infectious, and functional form of the capsid has been determined. This new capsid structure reveals functional motifs that were previously unclear in the non-infectious capsid. These motifs are believed to be essential for the virus’ replication and particle assembly, making them promising targets for developing strategies to control virus proliferation.