bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development of a questionnaire library for rapid health data acquisition during wildfire events
Authors: Liu Lilian , Loftus Christine , Rohlman Diana , Seto Edmund , Austin Elena
Published: February 2025

Rapid health outcome data acquisition using existing questionnaires can greatly facilitate time-sensitive research during or after a wildfire event. We aimed to develop a readily available library of questionnaires for self-reported health outcomes to serve as a centralized platform for wildfire researchers seeking to quickly design instruments tailored to their research aims. In this paper, we describe the methodology used to identify relevant health questionnaires and compile them into a structured library. We first followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) 2020 checklist and performed a systematic literature review of prior research on wildfire exposure and health and used this to 1)identify health outcome categories associated with wildfire and smoke exposure and 2) extract questionnaires used for self-report of health outcomes related to wildfire exposure. We also performed a secondary search of existing questionnaire repositories to identify additional instruments relevant to health impacts of wildfire exposure. All questionnaires (n=100) were organized by eight health outcome categories (mental health = 60, respiratory health = 19, overall health = 17, sleep = 10, cardiovascular health = 4, allergy = 1, irritation (eye, throat, skin) = 2, and metabolic health = 1). Thelibrary(see supplementary information) will be accompanied by a decision-tree framework in development, which will assist future users in building new questionnaires that best fit their study population and research aims. Both the questionnaire library and the forthcoming decision-support framework will be publicly accessible to researchers, public health agencies, and other groups interested in rapid response data collection to characterize the impacts of wildfires. Additionally, this method of creating a wildfire exposure health questionnaire library may serve as a template for rapid collection of questionnaire-based data following other disasters.
Spatial dynamics of the tumor microenvironment associated with emerging resistance to targeted therapy inEGFR-mutated non–small cell lung cancer
Authors: Nakamura Satoshi , Shibahara Daisuke , Tanaka Kentaro , Kishikawa Yasuyuki , Hashisako Mikiko , Nakatomi Keita , Nakagaki Noriaki , Kohno Mikihiro , Azuma Koichi , Ibusuki Ritsu , Otsubo Kohei , Yoneshima Yasuto , Iwama Eiji , Oda Yoshinao , Okamoto Isamu
Published: February 2025

Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) provide therapeutic benefit inEGFRmutation–positive non–small cell lung cancer, but some individuals develop early resistance. We performed spatial transcriptomics analysis of pre- and posttreatment tumor samples from the same patients to explore the underlying mechanisms of such early resistance. The proportion and activation of fibroblasts increased in association with the development of early resistance, whereas a distinct tumor cell cluster showed activation of tumor necrosis factor–α signaling via the NF-κB pathway even before treatment. Also in the early resistance sample, specific tumor cell clusters interacted with immune and stromal cells. Immature tertiary lymphoid structures (TLSs) were enriched in the early resistance sample, whereas mature TLSs were observed in the long-term response sample. These findings implicate tumor heterogeneity and an inflammatory tumor microenvironment in early EGFR-TKI resistance, providing insight into potential therapeutic strategies to improve treatment outcomes.
Women’s experiences collecting and accessing water in Guatemala, Honduras, Kenya, and Zimbabwe: A mixed-methods investigation
Authors: Caruso Bethany A. , Mink Thea , Patrick Madeleine , Ogutu Emily , Dawkins Cameron , Bendit Olivia , Fatima Mahnoor , Lustig Ingrid , Macler Alicia , White Jera , Zamora Alondra , Santos López Alberto Emanuel , Peña Ramírez Héctor Salvador , Sic Carlos Daniel , Chávez Jorge Lemus , Antonio Sandra , Irías Jazmina Nohemí , Ramos Gladys , Atandi Everlyne , Mwangi Peter , Koome Peter , Otieno Onyango Rohin , Otuya Petronilla Andiba , Ruto Paul , Chidavaenzi Morris , Jimu Jammaine , Maphosa Sithandekile , Maworera Makaita , Damson Munyaradzi , Sinharoy Sheela S.
Published: February 2025

1.8 billion people live in households that collect water from sources off household premises, creating burdens that disproportionately affect women. A current and comprehensive investigation of women’s water collection experiences is needed to understand the gendered burden of this labor. This study used mixed methods, including (a) go-along, in-depth interviews (IDIs), (b) semi-structured observation, (c) activity-tracking smart watches, and (d) scales, to (1) understand women’s practices, perspectives, and experiences going to water sources; (2) determine actual water collection time, distance, caloric expenditure, total elevation ascended, weight carried, and water volume collected; and (3) assess alignment of women’s estimated and actual water journey times. Ninety-four women participated across four countries: Guatemala (n=22), Honduras (n=17), Kenya (n=22), Zimbabwe (n=33). Women reported accessing various sources depending on season and needs, faced risks due to terrain and animals, and experienced physical injury and mental burden. Experiences varied within and by country. The mean water journey time (including going to the source, activities at the source, and returning) was 82 minutes (range: 13 minutes (Guatemala) – 287 minutes (Kenya)). The mean distance traveled was 3.5km (range: 0.2km (Guatemala, Honduras, Zimbabwe) - 15.8km (Kenya)). Mean caloric expenditure was 231cal (range: 36 (Guatemala) – 952 (Zimbabwe)). The mean volume of water collected was 16.1L. (range: 3.7L (Kenya) - 38.2L (Zimbabwe). Women also carried children, wet laundry, and other items resulting in heavy loads. The mean total weight of loads brought from water sources was 19.3kg (range: 5.0kg (Honduras) - 50.1kg (Zimbabwe). Findings demonstrate how a lack of adequate and accessible water drains women of energy and time and poses risks to their well-being. Our findings reinforce the need to redouble efforts to improve water access in low-resource settings and rigorously measure the impacts of such efforts on women’s lives.
Fostering English-major students’ team creativity and collaboration through design thinking
Authors: Kaoropthai Chayaporn
Published: February 2025

Purpose

Design thinking, as a creative and innovative methodology, has been proposed as a process for non-designers to address complex problems. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of using design thinking to foster English-major students’ team creativity and collaboration.

Design/methodology/approach

This study employed a quasi-experimental design and was conducted online via Google Classroom. A purposive sample of 31 English-major students from a workplace action research class was used as participants of the study. Design thinking was introduced and employed to foster students’ team creativity and collaboration in the development of group research proposals. The four instruments used to collect the data included: team creativity questionnaire, team collaboration questionnaire, product satisfaction questionnaire and product quality questionnaire.

Findings

The results of the study revealed that mean scores of the four outcome variables: team creativity (4.31), team collaboration (4.20), product satisfaction (4.33) and product quality (3.87), were all at a “high” level, supporting that the approach promoted team creativity and team collaboration. Additionally, the correlations between team creativity and product satisfaction (0.49) and team collaboration and product quality (0.33) were both at a “moderate-substantial” level, potentially indicating their roles in ensuring rigorous output.

Originality/value

This research is significant because it provides new insights into the use of design thinking to foster students’ team creativity and collaboration in an action research course.
Managing patronization portfolio for liquidity risk management in Islamic banks
Authors: Riaz Shakeel , Hussain Talat , Arshed Noman
Published: February 2025

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to explore how changes in customer deposits influence the banking profits. The banking sector’s growth-promoting role is supported by its ability to perform the essential function of financial intermediation. However, Islamic banks go the extra mile by balancing the wealth of the rich and the poor and distributing risk more evenly. The effective operation of the services industry, including Islamic banks, depends on the active participation of their customers. Customers’ deposits in their accounts with Islamic banks are a crucial funding source. In actuality, two distinct sorts of demanding customers exist. Their expectations of the services provided by Islamic banks are different.

Design/methodology/approach

Panel quantile regression is applied using the collected data from Islamic banks’ audited financial statements for the time period from 2001 to 2021.

Findings

This study is expected to provide the breakdown of shares of current and saving deposits for Islamic banks, which supports managing liquidity risk. This breakdown will help the policymakers lay down a framework for managing the share of current and saving deposits in their favor.

Research limitations/implications

The study aims to empirically evaluate whether changes in the current and saving account patronization have a role in the liquidity risk. And determine how banks need to manage their deposit structure to manage liquidity.

Originality/value

Previous studies have been nose-dive in providing country-level comparisons of different types of deposits in the context of liquidity risk management.
Knowledge sharing between businesses and stakeholders for systemic and sustainable regional development. Insights in the agri-food sector
Authors: Scorrano Paola , Borin Elena , Thrassou Alkis , Cavallo Federica , Mastroleo Giovanni
Published: February 2025

Purpose

The paper aims to interpret sustainable regional development (SRD) as an exchange ecosystem in which stakeholders provide reciprocal access to resources, benefiting both individual and systemic levels. This paper suggests that knowledge, as a shared and value-transcribed critical resource, nourishes a community’s motivational system (CMS), orienting it toward SRD. This inherently raises questions regarding the nature of social business models (SBM) that can best support community’s motivational system, as well as their sustainable regional development derivatives.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper employs the Fuzzy Expert System (FES) to analyze companies participating in the three most representative Italian consortia, aiming to empirically address the knowledge gap regarding the influence of social business model on sustainable regional development.

Findings

Applying our theoretical framework to Agro-food Protection Consortia – a specific type of hybrid social, regional value-oriented business organization – this paper demonstrates that knowledge sharing along environmental, social and economic dimensions enhances sustainable regional development. Using the IF (condition) → THEN (action) logic of fuzzy method, the study identified knowledge exchange as a key condition motivating actors to contribute to sustainable regional development. This dynamic approach enables better alignment between stakeholders and regional goals.

Originality/value

This paper presents practicable participatory strategic guidelines that balance informal and formal governance mechanisms with the catalytic and enhancing connection of strategic business initiatives for Sustainable Regional Development.
‘Learning to Export’ and ‘Learning By Exporting’: Revisiting the Relationship Between Innovation and Exports in African Firms
Authors: Avenyo Elvis Korku , Tregenna Fiona
Published: February 2025

This article examines the relationship between innovation and export performance for African firms. We estimate a censored Tobit IV simultaneous model with selection, using a cross‐sectional data set from the World Bank's Enterprise Surveys for 28 African economies. The results show a two‐way positive relationship between innovation and export performance in African firms: innovation is important for both the ability to export (export propensity) and for export intensity, while exporting also increases the likelihood of innovating. These effects are driven mainly by direct exports and apply to both product and process innovations. The positive two‐way relationship is strengthened through two key mechanisms: a higher share of foreign ownership in firms, and firms having an internationally recognised quality certification. We argue that these results point to a two‐way relationship in which innovation enables firms to ‘learn to export’, while firms also ‘learn by exporting’. We discuss the implications of these findings for African firms and policymakers.
Genetic and Pharmacological Inhibition of Metabotropic Glutamate Receptor Signalling Extends Lifespan in Drosophila
Authors: Guan Cui , Otchere Abigail , Laskovs Mihails , Papatheodorou Irene , Slack Cathy
Published: February 2025

Invertebrate models have been instrumental in advancing our understanding of the molecular mechanisms of ageing. The isolation of single gene mutations that both extend lifespan and improve age‐related health have identified potential targets for therapeutic intervention to alleviate age‐related morbidity. Here, we find that genetic loss of function of the G protein‐coupled metabotropic glutamate receptor (DmGluRA) in Drosophila extends the lifespan of female flies. This longevity phenotype was accompanied by lower basal levels of oxidative stress and improved stress tolerance, and differences in early‐life behavioural markers. Gene expression changes in DmGluRA mutants identified reduced ribosome biogenesis, a hallmark of longevity, as a key process altered in these animals. We further show that the pro‐longevity effects of reduced DmGluRA signalling are dependent on the fly homologue of Fragile X Mental Retardation Protein (FMRP), an important regulator of ribosomal protein translation. Importantly, we can recapitulate lifespan extension using a specific pharmacological inhibitor of mGluR activity. Hence, our study identifies metabotropic glutamate receptors as potential targets for age‐related therapeutics.
Understanding the Associations of Urogenital Microbiomes With Fertility and In Vitro Fertilization
Authors: Berard Alicia R. , Brubaker Douglas K. , Nemecio Dalí X. , Farr Zuend Christina
Published: February 2025

Infertility, defined as the inability to establish a clinical pregnancy after a year of regular, unprotected sexual intercourse, impacts 8%–12% of couples worldwide. Many of these couples turn to in vitro fertilization (IVF) to build their families. The success rate of IVF procedures is variable, with estimates of up to 40% of embryo transfers being unsuccessful. Herein we review the existing literature on the role of the female and male urogenital microbiomes and genital inflammation on fertility and IVF outcomes. We discuss the microbiome across the female reproductive tract (FRT) and identify associations with female infertility, female genital tract inflammation, and success of IVF procedures. We also discuss the male urogenital microbiome and the associations between microbial taxa, genital inflammation, and male fertility parameters. Finally, we consider microbial transfer within couples and the impact this may have on fertility and the success of IVF procedures.
Fatigue Behavior Up to Very High Cycle Regime of Laser Beam Welded Ti60 Joints
Authors: Ren Lisha , Chen Yao , Xu Guangpei , Li Fei , Wang Qiaoling , Zhou Jie
Published: February 2025

Ti60 titanium alloy laser beam welding (LBW) joint exhibits significant microstructural heterogeneity, with the base metal (BM) having equiaxed α and intergranular β phases, the heat‐affected zone (HAZ) containing acicular α′ martensite and retained α phase, and the fusion zone (FZ) composed of acicular α′ martensite. This leads to uneven nanohardness and microhardness distributions, with the highest in the FZ. The fatigue strength of the welded joints is significantly lower than the BM up to a very high cycle regime, at 180 MPa, with failure modes including surface welded depression, welded pores in the FZ, and facet cleavage fracture in the BM. Dislocation distribution analysis reveals a mismatch between the soft and hard phases of α and β, with stress concentration around welded pores inducing dislocation nucleation and entanglement, ultimately leading to martensite laths breaking and recrystallizing into nanograins under fatigue loading.
Regional Occupancy Is Negatively Related to Richness Across Time and Space
Authors: Shipley B. R. , Saupe E. E.
Published: February 2025

Aim

Biological diversity is shaped by processes occurring at different spatial and temporal scales. However, the direct influence of the spatial and temporal scale on patterns of occupancy is still understudied. Today, occupancy is often negatively correlated with species richness, but it is unknown whether this relationship is scale dependent and consistent through time. Here, we use datasets of contemporary and paleontological communities to explore the occupancy‐richness relationship across space and time, examining how scale influences this relationship.

Location

Varying spatial extents with global coverage.

Time

Varies from 7 mya to 2021 CE.

Taxa

foraminifera, mammals, birds, fish, and plants.

Methods

We gathered datasets spanning different spatial, temporal, and taxonomic extents. We binned each dataset into distinct time periods and spatially subsampled them into regional pools of varying sizes. We calculated regional occupancy and richness for each pool, measuring the strength of the relationship between the two. Using linear mixed models, we related the occupancy‐richness relationship to the size of the regional pools, overall species richness, and climatic changes through time.

Results

We observed nearly ubiquitous negative occupancy‐richness relationships across taxa, spatial scale, and time. The size of the regional pools and time bins had no consistent effects on the strength of the relationship, but the strength of the negative relationship varied substantially among taxa, with foraminifera and North American pollen showing weaker relationships than mammals and birds. Changes in this relationship through time were not driven by climatic perturbations but by the species richness observed across all regional pools.

Conclusions

Patterns of regional richness and occupancy are consistently negatively related and independent of spatial and temporal scale and of direct climatic changes. However, differences in the ecology of species (e.g., dispersal ability) and changes in biodiversity and community composition through time may cause fluctuations in the strength of the occupancy‐richness relationship.
Contemporary Digital Dentistry for Complex Cases in the Anterior Maxilla
Authors: Pedrinaci Ignacio , Calatrava Javier , Toledano‐Osorio Manuel , Zhao Na , Lanis Alejandro , Sanz Mariano
Published: February 2025

Objectives

To demonstrate how contemporary digitally driven workflow can enhance outcomes for complex esthetic dental cases, focusing on three distinct clinical scenarios involving implant placement, esthetic crown lengthening, and tooth autotransplantation (ATT).

Overview

Three multidisciplinary clinical cases demonstrate our contemporary digital workflows, integrating diagnosis, treatment planning, patient communication, and guided execution. The first case involves replacing two anterior central incisors using digital planning, guided surgery, prefabricated customized healing abutments, and a digitally driven restorative process. The second case showcases an esthetic crown‐lengthening procedure, where Multifunctional Anatomical Prototypes (MAPs) serve as both mock‐up and surgical guides, enhancing patient communication on expected outcomes and ensuring precise tissue management to prevent soft tissue rebound. The final case features a tooth ATT, where virtual surgical planning and 3D‐printed tooth replica and guides ensure predictability in the therapeutic outcome. These digitally enabled strategies underscore the predictability and customization achievable with contemporary dental technology.

Conclusions

Dental treatments in the esthetic zone require meticulous planning and precise execution to achieve controlled results that ensure patient satisfaction and long‐term stability. Contemporary Digital Dentistry enhances predictability, creating a pathway that leads to success.
Accidental Trisodium Phosphate [Na3PO4] (TSP) Ingestion in a Child
Authors: Hoffmann William , Cooke Christopher , Bloomquist Ryan F.
Published: February 2025

Background

It is not uncommon for a child to present to the hospital due to accidental ingestions, and oftentimes they are the result of a child accessing household cleaning or home improvement products. Typically, the upper gastrointestinal tract is the site of initial tissue insult and prognosis of these cases depends on a variety of factors, including the ingested substance, injury extent, and assessments and treatments rendered. Possible post‐ingestion complications that make management difficult may include mediastinitis, hemodynamic instability, gastrointestinal perforation, erosion and scarring.

Case

In this case, a 13‐month‐old boy accidently swallowed Trisodium phosphate [Na3PO4] (TSP), a common household all‐purpose heavy‐duty cleaner. After ingestion, the patient presented to the emergency department where a multi‐disciplinary team‐initiated care. Work‐up included regular vital checks, electrolyte profiles, blood profiles and an esophagogastroduodenoscopy. He was eventually discharged and scheduled to return for follow‐up with esophagram, without long term consequences.

Conclusions

Although the ingestion of TSP has occurred before, the literature regarding consumption of this specific detergent is negligible. This case provides evidence regarding the treatment and outcome of a paediatric patient who accidentally swallowed TSP and offers guidance in the management of their care.
Sleep neuroimaging: Review and future directions
Authors: Pereira Mariana , Chen Xinyuan , Paltarzhytskaya Anastasiya , Pacheсo Yibran , Muller Nils , Bovy Leonore , Lei Xu , Chen Wei , Ren Haoran , Song Chen , Lewis Laura D. , Dang‐Vu Thien Thanh , Czisch Michael , Picchioni Dante , Duyn Jeff , Peigneux Philippe , Tagliazucchi Enzo , Dresler Martin
Published: February 2025

Sleep research has evolved considerably since the first sleep electroencephalography recordings in the 1930s and the discovery of well‐distinguishable sleep stages in the 1950s. While electrophysiological recordings have been used to describe the sleeping brain in much detail, since the 1990s neuroimaging techniques have been applied to uncover the brain organization and functional connectivity of human sleep with greater spatial resolution. The combination of electroencephalography with different neuroimaging modalities such as positron emission tomography, structural magnetic resonance imaging and functional magnetic resonance imaging imposes several challenges for sleep studies, for instance, the need to combine polysomnographic recordings to assess sleep stages accurately, difficulties maintaining and consolidating sleep in an unfamiliar and restricted environment, scanner‐induced distortions with physiological artefacts that may contaminate polysomnography recordings, and the necessity to account for all physiological changes throughout the sleep cycles to ensure better data interpretability. Here, we review the field of sleep neuroimaging in healthy non‐sleep‐deprived populations, from early findings to more recent developments. Additionally, we discuss the challenges of applying concurrent electroencephalography and imaging techniques to sleep, which consequently have impacted the sample size and generalizability of studies, and possible future directions for the field.
Early sensorimotor restriction in rats induces age‐dependent mitochondrial alterations in skeletal muscles and brain structures
Authors: Van Gaever Mélanie , Dupuy Olivier , Dupont Erwan , Canu Marie‐Hélène , Daussin Frederic
Published: February 2025

A sedentary lifestyle can lead to motor and cognitive deficits, increasing the risk of neurodegenerative diseases in ageing. Emerging hypotheses suggest that these functional alterations may be related to energy metabolism. Indeed, ATP produced by mitochondria is essential for muscle contraction, neurotransmission and brain plasticity processes. Although a sedentary lifestyle has been associated with mitochondrial alterations in skeletal muscle, the potential effects on brain structures have yet to be investigated. The present study aimed to determine whether early sensorimotor restriction (SMR) alters mitochondrial metabolism in rat muscles and brain structures. Enzyme activities of citrate synthase (CS) and respiratory chain complexes I, II and IV were measured using a spectrophotometric technique and mitochondrial respiration was assessed using high‐resolution respirometry in two hind limb muscles [soleus and extensor digitorum longus (EDL)] and four brain structures (sensorimotor cortex, striatum, prefrontal cortex and hippocampus) in control rats and rats experiencing early SMR from birth to day 28. Mitochondrial enzyme activities decreased in the soleus (complexes I and II), in the EDL (complex I) and in the hippocampus (complexes I and IV) in an age‐dependent manner, whereas no effect was observed in other brain structures. CS activity decreases in the soleus and increases transiently in the striatum and sensorimotor cortex at postnatal day 15. Mitochondrial respiration was reduced in the soleus and in the sensorimotor cortex (CI and CI+CII). Early SMR appears to induce quantitative and qualitative mitochondrial alterations in skeletal muscles and certain brain structures involved in cognitive and motor processes.

image

Key points

Early sensorimotor restriction (SMR) alters mitochondrial enzyme activities and mitochondrial respiration in skeletal muscles and brain.

Mitochondrial alterations induced by early SMR are age‐dependent, structure‐dependent and complex‐dependent.

Mitochondrial enzyme activities increase during development and the evolution pattern is specific to the different structures.
Spatial-temporal activity-informed diarization and separation
Authors: Hsu Yicheng , Chen Ssuhan , Lai Yuhsin , Wang Chingyen , Bai Mingsian R.
Published: February 2025

A robust multichannel speaker diarization and separation system is proposed by exploiting the spatiotemporal activity of the speakers. The system is realized in a hybrid architecture that combines the array signal processing units and the deep learning units. For speaker diarization, a spatial coherence matrix across time frames is computed based on the whitened Relative Transfer Functions of the microphone array. This serves as a robust feature for subsequent machine learning without the need for prior knowledge of the array configuration. A computationally efficient modified End-to-End Neural Diarization system in the Encoder-Decoder-based Attractor network is constructed to estimate the speaker activity from the spatial coherence matrix. For speaker separation, we propose the Global and Local Activity-driven Speaker Extraction network to separate speaker signals via speaker-specific global and local spatial activity functions. The local spatial activity functions depend on the coherence between the whitened Relative Transfer Functions of each time-frequency bin and the target speaker-dominant bins. The global spatial activity functions are computed from the global spatial coherence functions based on frequency-averaged local spatial activity functions. Experimental results have demonstrated superior speaker, diarization, counting, and separation performance achieved by the proposed system with low computational complexity compared to the pre-selected baselines.
Characterization of fibrous media transport parameters from multi-compression-ratio measurements of normal incidence sound absorption
Authors: Santoni Andrea , Pompoli Francesco , Marescotti Cristina , Fausti Patrizio
Published: February 2025

This study presents a novel approach for estimating the transport parameters that characterize the acoustic behavior of fibrous materials using the Johnson-Champoux-Allard equivalent fluid model. We propose an inversion technique, based on an optimization algorithm, to fit the Johnson-Champoux-Allard model's predictions of normal incidence sound absorption coefficient to multi-compression-ratio experimental data. Experimental measurements using the two-microphone technique within an impedance tube are conducted on fibrous material samples tested at various compression ratios. Optimization is performed using both a non-linear programming solver and a genetic algorithm. Validation of the proposed method shows good agreement with well-established techniques and demonstrates its effectiveness across a range of fibrous materials. A sensitivity analysis emphasizes the importance of selecting appropriate boundaries for the search space in the optimization process. To enhance the robustness of optimization, a two-step iterative procedure is proposed. This straightforward methodology offers a robust and reliable framework for characterizing the transport properties of fibrous materials. Its ease of implementation and accuracy make it a valuable tool for enhancing material design and optimization in acoustic engineering.
Effect of Multicomponent Dual-Task Training on Gait in People With Intellectual Disability
Authors: Gutiérrez Cruz Carmen , Ruiz Peralvarez Francisco Javier , Latorre Román Pedro Ángel , Párraga Montilla Juan Antonio , Andrade-Lara Karina E. , Cabrera Linares José Carlos
Published: February 2025

Purpose: Gait is a complex task that requires the interaction between motor and cognitive demand, being usually assessed using the dual-task (DT) paradigm. The aim of this study was to identify the effect of 21 weeks of application of multicomponent DT training on the spatiotemporal gait parameters, coefficients of variation, and DT cost in people with intellectual disability. Methods: A controlled longitudinal pre–post design with random assignment to two groups (experimental and control) was used. Fifty-seven participants with intellectual disability joined in this study (age: 39 ± 9 years). The OptoGait system was used to register spatiotemporal gait parameters in two different conditions: single task and DT. Results: The main findings revealed that in both conditions, the multicomponent DT training significantly reduced the coefficients of variation of spatiotemporal gait parameters (p < .001), whereas there was no effect on DT cost. Conclusions: These findings suggest that the multicomponent DT training elicited a more stable and confident gait pattern.
What It Takes to Win: Examining Predicted Versus Actual Swimming Performances at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, and What Comes Next
Authors: Powell Cormac , Pyne David B. , Crowley Emmet , Mujika Iñigo
Published: February 2025

Predictions of performances should be evaluated to confirm their accuracy. Work by this group has resulted in 3 sets of predictions being generated for swimming events at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, using the same statistical approach for each set. Purpose: To examine the accuracy of swimming predictions for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games and generate updated predictions for both the Singapore 2025 World Aquatics Championships and Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games. Methods: A linear regression and forecasting function was used to generate predictions for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games across 3 performance categories (rank 1st–3rd, 4th–8th, and 9th–16th). Mean absolute error was used to assess the accuracy of the predicted versus actual Paris 2024 Olympic Games times for all events across the 3 performance categories. New predictions for the 2028 Olympic cycle were subsequently generated using results from the World Championships and Olympic Games between 2011 and 2024. Results: Across all events, a mean absolute error value of 0.84% was observed between the Paris 2024 Olympic Games predicted and actual times. Predicted times were highly correlated with actual times (r2 = .99). Across the 3 sets of predictions (created in 2022, 2023, and 2024), the 2023 set of predictions had the lowest overall mean absolute error value (0.55%). Conclusions: The methods used to create predictions for swimming performances at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games were deemed accurate. These methods enable national swimming federations to create a series of predictions for a given major championship, inform athlete identification and development pathways, and allocate appropriate resources, including sport-science provision.
Association of Physical Activity and Sedentary Behavior With Depressive Symptoms in Older Adults: A Structural Equation Modeling in Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Meneguci Joilson , Galvão Lucas Lima , Garcia Meneguci Cíntia Aparecida , Ferreira da Silva Antonio Paulo , Paula Eduardo da Silva , Virtuoso Júnior Jair Sindra
Published: February 2025

Background/Objectives: Few conceptual models demonstrate how the relationship between behavioral factors, especially physical activity (PA) and sedentary behavior (SB), and depressive symptoms occurs in older adults. In this regard, understanding how these relationships occur may help in designing future behavior change interventions. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the associations of PA and SB with depressive symptoms in older adults, accounting for functional capacity, sleep quality, self-esteem, and self-efficacy as possible mediators. Methods: In overall, 466 older adults aged ≥60 years participated in the study with a cross-sectional design. We subjectively assessed depressive symptoms, PA and SB, self-efficacy for walking and PA, instrumental activities of daily living, sleep quality, and self-esteem. Structural equation modeling was used to investigate the direct and indirect associations of PA and SB with depressive symptoms. Results: Although PA and SB do not have a direct association with depressive symptoms, these behaviors seem to have total effects on the outcome. The association of SB with depressive symptoms was mediated by functional capacity and sleep quality. And the association of PA was mediated by functional capacity and self-esteem. Conclusion: To reduce depressive symptoms in older adults, PA and SB interventions need to promote sleep quality, functional capacity, and self-esteem. Significance/Implications: Interventions that promote the continuation of regular PA and the reduction of time spent in SB should be encouraged, seeking to improve sleep quality and increase functional capacity, in order to reduce the rates of depressive symptoms in older adults.
Convergent Validity and Test–Retest Reliability of Daily Athlete Health Surveys in Collegiate Athletes
Authors: Pexa Brett S. , Barczak-Scarboro Nikki E. , Blue Malia N.M. , Johnston Christopher J. , Ford Kevin R.
Published: February 2025

Context: Short daily surveys are common in elite sports to capture psychological outcomes, but there is no information on the surveys convergent validity and test–retest reliability. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to determine the validity and test–retest reliability of daily athlete health surveys in collegiate athletes. Design: Descriptive study. Methods: Participants (n = 193, 74 males and 119 females; age = 20.3 [1.4] y) responded daily to sliding scale questions regarding readiness (scored from 0 to 100), fatigue, stress, and sleep quality (−5 [indicating low or poor scores] to +5 [indicating high or “good” scores]). At pre- and midseason times, participants completed the Perceived Stress Scale, Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, Athlete Sleep Screening Questionnaire, Overuse Injury Scale, and the Acute Recovery and Stress Scale. To assess validity, Spearman rho (ρ) correlation coefficients were used to assess the relationship between each athlete health variable and the corresponding validated survey. Reliability and precision were assessed with the intraclass correlation coefficient and the standard error of measurement, respectively. Results: Daily stress was correlated with the Perceived Stress Scale (ρ = −.40, P < .001); daily sleep quality was associated with the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (ρ = −.44, P < .001) and the Athlete Sleep Screening Questionnaire (ρ = −0.46, P < .001), and daily readiness was associated with the Overuse Injury Scale (ρ = −.21, P = .003). Daily fatigue was associated with the recovery (ρ = .37, P < .001) and stress dimensions (ρ = −.36, P < .001) of the Acute Recovery and Stress Scale. All daily athlete health variables demonstrated either good or excellent reliability (intraclass correlation coefficient = .85–.94; standard error of measurement = 0.87–4.94). Conclusions: All daily health variables demonstrated acceptable reliability and precision. Sleep quality and stress were most strongly correlated with the outcome scores of their validated surveys. Fatigue was related to the Acute Recovery and Stress Scale, and readiness demonstrated a weak correlation to the Overuse Injury Scale. Clinicians should feel comfortable using these single-question daily health surveys in clinical care but exert caution when using readiness, and fatigue.
Exploring the (Ex/In)clusion of Disability Within Social Justice Physical Education Research
Authors: Haegele Justin A. , Arroyo-Rojas Fabián , Walton-Fisette Jennifer L.
Published: February 2025

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to explore what trends exist in the identification, description, and inclusion of disability within social justice focused physical education scholarship. Method: Using a documentary analysis approach, this study employed a systematic coding procedure to analyze 140 journal publications from six leading physical education journals using six categories of analysis. Results: Among the 140 analyzed papers, disability was not mentioned in more than half (n = 71). Among the 69 that did mention disability, many (n = 32) only used the term in a list as one of several marginalized groups. Among empirical studies, only five included disability as a demographic variable. Four of these papers were focused specifically on disabled people. Discussion/Conclusion: These findings demonstrate a general lack of disability within social justice physical education scholarship, which may be a result of varying perspectives about what social justice scholarship is and who social justice research should be for.
“Just Super Collaborative”: Sport Event Management and Inclusive Higher Education
Authors: Butler B. Nalani , Duchac Neil , Stokowski Sarah
Published: February 2025

Individuals with intellectual disabilities lack cognitive and adaptive functioning. At the university level, inclusive postsecondary education programs have emerged for individuals with intellectual disabilities by delivering valuable outcomes such as independent living, socialization, employment, and so forth. This study explored the perceptions of students regarding inclusive higher education within sport event management. Students in an inclusive postsecondary education program and students enrolled in a sport event management class collectively conceptualized, planned, and managed a sporting event. Upon completion of the event, students participated in focus groups. The data revealed four themes: autonomy, relationship building, we need more, and opportunities. The results of this study show the importance of collaborative practices that promote inclusion in sport management education.
Engineering grain boundaries in monolayer molybdenum disulfide for efficient water-ion separation
Authors: Shen Jie , Aljarb Areej , Cai Yichen , Liu Xing , Min Jiacheng , Wang Yingge , Wang Qingxiao , Zhang Chenhui , Chen Cailing , Hakami Mariam , Fu Jui-Han , Zhang Hui , Li Guanxing , Wang Xiaoqian , Chen Zhuo , Li Jiaqiang , Dong Xinglong , Shih Kaimin , Huang Kuo-Wei , Tung Vincent , Shi Guosheng , Pinnau Ingo , Li Lain-Jong , Han Yu
Published: February 2025

Two-dimensional (2D) materials have long been considered as ideal platforms for developing separation membranes. However, it is difficult to generate uniform subnanometer pores over large areas on 2D materials. We report that the well-defined eight-membered ring (8-MR) pores, typically formed at the boundaries of two antiparallel grains of monolayer molybdenum disulfide (MoS
2
), can serve as molecular sieves for efficient water-ion separation. The density of grain boundaries and, consequently, the number of 8-MR pores can be tuned by regulating the grain size. Optimized MoS
2
membranes outperformed the state-of-the-art membranes in forward osmosis tests by demonstrating both ultrahigh water/sodium chloride selectivity and exceptional water permeance. Creating precise pore structures on atomically thin films through grain boundary engineering presents a promising route for producing membranes suitable for various applications.
Thalamic opioids from POMC satiety neurons switch on sugar appetite
Authors: Minère Marielle , Wilhelms Hannah , Kuzmanovic Bojana , Lundh Sofia , Fusca Debora , Claßen Alina , Shtiglitz Stav , Prilutski Yael , Talpir Itay , Tian Lin , Kieffer Brigitte , Davis Jon , Kloppenburg Peter , Tittgemeyer Marc , Livneh Yoav , Fenselau Henning
Published: February 2025

High sugar–containing foods are readily consumed, even after meals and beyond fullness sensation (e.g., as desserts). Although reward-driven processing of palatable foods can promote overeating, the neurobiological mechanisms that underlie the selective appetite for sugar in states of satiety remain unclear. Hypothalamic pro-opiomelanocortin (POMC) neurons are principal regulators of satiety because they decrease food intake through excitatory melanocortin neuropeptides. We discovered that POMC neurons not only promote satiety in fed conditions but concomitantly switch on sugar appetite, which drives overconsumption. POMC neuron projections to the paraventricular thalamus selectively inhibited postsynaptic neurons through mu-opioid receptor signaling. This opioid circuit was strongly activated during sugar consumption, which was most notable in satiety states. Correspondingly, inhibiting its activity diminished high-sugar diet intake in sated mice.
Thermal catalytic reforming for hydrogen production with zero CO
2
emission
Authors: Peng Mi , Ge Yuzhen , Gao Rui , Yang Jie , Li Aowen , Xie Zhiheng , Yu Qiaolin , Zhang Jie , Asakura Hiroyuki , Zhang Hui , Liu Zhi , Zhang Qi , Deng Jin , Zhou Jihan , Zhou Wu , Hutchings Graham J. , Ma Ding
Published: February 2025

Carbon-neutral hydrogen production is of key importance for the chemical industry of the future. We demonstrate a new thermal catalytic route for the partial reforming of ethanol into hydrogen and acetic acid with near-zero carbon dioxide emissions. This reaction is enabled by a catalyst containing a high density of atomic Pt
1
and Ir
1
species supported on a reactive alpha-molybdenum carbide substrate, achieving a hydrogen production rate of 331.3 millimoles of hydrogen per gram catalyst per hour and an acetic acid selectivity of 84.5% at 270°C, and is therefore more energy-efficient compared with standard reforming. Techno-economic analysis of partial ethanol reforming demonstrates the potential profitability for operation at an industrial scale, presenting the opportunity to produce hydrogen and acetic acid with a substantially reduced carbon dioxide footprint.
Computational design of serine hydrolases
Authors: Lauko Anna , Pellock Samuel J. , Sumida Kiera H. , Anishchenko Ivan , Juergens David , Ahern Woody , Jeung Jihun , Shida Alex , Hunt Andrew , Kalvet Indrek , Norn Christoffer , Humphreys Ian R. , Jamieson Cooper , Krishna Rohith , Kipnis Yakov , Kang Alex , Brackenbrough Evans , Bera Asim K. , Sankaran Banumathi , Houk K. N. , Baker David
Published: February 2025

The design of enzymes with complex active sites that mediate multistep reactions remains an outstanding challenge. With serine hydrolases as a model system, we combined the generative capabilities of RFdiffusion with an ensemble generation method for assessing active site preorganization to design enzymes starting from minimal active site descriptions. Experimental characterization revealed catalytic efficiencies (

k
cat

/

K
m

) up to 2.2x10
5
M
−1
s
−1
and crystal structures that closely match the design models (Cα RMSDs < 1 Å). Selection for structural compatibility across the reaction coordinate enabled identification of new catalysts in low-throughput screens with five different folds distinct from those of natural serine hydrolases. Our de novo approach provides insight into the geometric basis of catalysis and a roadmap for designing enzymes that catalyze multistep transformations.
U.S. aid freeze deals ‘tectonic’ blow to research
Authors: Offord Catherine , Cohen Jon , Enserink Martin
Published: February 2025

Scientists decry ethical violations as trials worldwide are paused and workers laid off
Judge’s ruling leaves NIH’s move to abruptly slash grants in limbo
Authors: Malakoff David
Published: February 2025

Universities, states, and research groups attack plan to cut billions in “indirect cost” payments as illegal and unwise
Tracing more than two decades of Japanese encephalitis virus circulation in mainland China
Authors: Li Gairu , Li Xinxin , Chen Jie , Lemey Phillipe , Vrancken Bram , Su Shuo , Dellicour Simon , Gámbaro Fabiana
Published: February 2025

Japanese encephalitis is a viral disease caused by the Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV), primarily affecting rural areas of Asia and western Pacific region. China remains one of the main epicenters, experiencing a significant burden of human and animal cases despite vaccination efforts. The ecology of this arbovirus is complex, involving
Culex
mosquitoes as primary vectors, wading birds as natural reservoirs, and pigs as amplifying hosts. Given the virus’s epidemiological importance in China, combined with the country’s expanding pig farming industry and diverse climates, investigating the virus spread and its environmental drivers is needed to address its persistent burden. In this study, we conducted phylogeographic analyses by combining publicly available JEV envelope gene sequences from China and other regions. Our reconstructions revealed multiple introduction events leading to various circulating JEV clades in China, with one predominant clade. Additionally, our analyses showed a diffusion capacity of JEV exceeding previous estimates for co-circulating arboviruses. These differences could be attributed to pig trade or bird migration, calling for further investigations into the drivers of JEV spread.

IMPORTANCE

Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV) is the cause of Japanese encephalitis, a significant health concern in China. Despite being one of the most studied mosquito-borne viruses, no previous studies have combined genomic and geographic data to investigate the spatial epidemiology and dispersal capacity of the virus. In this study, we analyzed genomic, geographic, and environmental data to trace the dispersal history of JEV in China and explore the environmental factors influencing its distribution. Our findings show that JEV circulates predominantly in areas with higher temperatures, dense human and pig populations, and favorable conditions for
Culex
mosquitoes. Notably, our analyses showed a higher diffusion capacity of JEV compared to co-circulating viruses, possibly driven by factors like pig trade and bird migration. Our analysis calls for improved genomic surveillance and establishes a baseline for future studies on the effects of climate change, agricultural practices, and bird migration on JEV circulation.