bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
How different emotions emerge in the context of the energy crisis: A contribution to emotional energy geographies
Authors: Budnik Maria , Grossmann Katrin , Hess Celine , Wemheuer Tine
Published: February 2025

The emerging field of emotional energy geography within energy social sciences explores the intersection of energy systems and lived experiences. Pioneering contributions emphasise the need to understand energy usage and decision‐making in novel ways. This paper contributes to this discourse by examining emotions in the face of insecurity, steep price increases, and a political crisis, focusing on Germany during the 2022 European energy crises. Political actors predicted either a ‘hot autumn’ or a ‘winter of rage’. However, the massive protests that were anticipated scarcely materialised, and the groups affected internalised the crisis. The study investigates how individuals felt about the situation when rage did not manifest on the streets, exploring the emergence of other emotions. It explores emotions such as fear of costs, conflicts over energy provision, social stress, and pride in energy‐saving capacities. The literature on social psychology and emotional sociology posits that emotions arise through the process of defining a given situation. Here, attribution of responsibility appears crucial for the understanding of varied emotional reactions. Shame may lead to internalised conflict avoidance, while collective anger becomes a mobilising force. Drawing on four expert interviews and 30 qualitative interviews with retirees, single parents, and students—groups vulnerable to rising energy costs—the paper challenges expectations of widespread anger. Instead, emotional experiences are intricately tied to existing strategies for coping with poverty and support networks that mitigate the impact of the crises. The findings contribute to a better empirical understanding of emotions in social crises, highlighting the roles of pre‐existing coping mechanisms and support structures in shaping emotional responses.
Transcriptomic Regulation by Astrocytic m6A Methylation in the mPFC
Authors: Wen You‐Lu , Guo Fang , Gu Ting‐ting , Zeng Yan‐ping , Cao Xiong
Published: February 2025

Astrocytes, the most prevalent type of glial cells, have been found to play a crucial part in numerous physiological functions. By offering metabolic and structural support, astrocytes are vital for the proper functioning of the brain and regulating information processing and synaptic transmission. Astrocytes located in the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) are highly responsive to environmental changes and have been associated with the development of brain disorders. One of the primary mechanisms through which the brain responds to environmental factors is epitranscriptome modification. M6‐methyladenosine methylation is the most prevalent internal modification of eukaryotic messenger RNA (mRNA), and it significantly impacts transcript processing and protein synthesis. However, the effects of m6A on astrocyte transcription and function are still not well understood. Our research demonstrates that ALKBH5, an RNA demethylase of m6A found in astrocytes, affects gene expression in the mPFC. These findings suggest that further investigation into the potential role of astrocyte‐mediated m6A methylation in the mPFC is warranted.
The World Café as a Tool for Evaluating the Level of Acceptance of SARS‐CoV‐2 Screening in School Settings, Puglia Region, Italy, 2023
Authors: Gabellone Valeria , Nuccetelli Fabiana , Gabrielli Elisa , Ascatigno Leonardo , Lopalco Pier Luigi , Prato Rosa
Published: February 2025

Background

The introduction of screening tests for Sars‐CoV‐2 has been an extraordinary prevention and control tool during the COVID‐19 pandemic. However, pandemic control interventions, including screening and vaccine mandates, induced refusal reactions in many people. To date, little information is available on the levels of acceptance of screening practices by the young population in school settings.

Objective

The objective of this work is to survey students' attitudes, behaviours and emotions towards Covid‐19 screening tests by the means of a participatory research method, the World Café (WC).

Materials and Methods

Between March and May 2023, three WC sessions were conducted in three high schools, with 70 students enrolled on a voluntary basis. As per standard procedure, a moderator was assigned at each table to facilitate dialogue and the WCs were recorded, transcribed and imported into ATLAS.ti software for qualitative analysis.

Results

The analysis showed that the themes most reported during the WCs were those regarding the emotional domain, particularly feelings of distress, anxiety, fear, frustration, inadequacy and loneliness.

Discussion

Although the themes ‘Emotions/thoughts’ appear to be the most prominent among students, also ‘Public health policies’ constitutes a predominant theme group. Finally, the theme ‘Communication’ sparked lively debate, being the fourth most discussed topic.

Conclusions

The many insights from the WC analysis, when properly reframed, bring out useful elements for taking actions during prevention campaigns. Institutions and schools should focus on disseminating clear and targeted messages to help fight misinformation and distrust. Moreover, such evidence suggests that the World Café method proves to be useful and effective for exploring the emotional sphere of adolescents and analysing their thoughts, attitudes and knowledge.

Patient or Public Contribution

The research team collaborated with the school personnel to set up the right setting for running the World Café sessions. The World Café method allowed the researchers to gather students' insights by the means of a participative process. Honest debate and active engagement of students provided the researchers with a list of statements very useful for informing health policy and recommendations.
Setting Primary Health and Social Care Priorities Using a Deliberative Democratic Participatory Approach
Authors: Wales Coralie , Abbott Penny , Street Jackie , Fawcett Lauren , Jennings Maree , Sharp Wendy , Lee Philip
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Publicly funded regional primary health care investments are usually informed by analysis of locally collected data, surveys, focus groups and consultations. We wanted a deeper understanding of baseline health and social care priorities in culturally diverse Western Sydney. If WentWest could understand the priorities, the operational agenda for commissioning services could be tailored around them. This research describes the organisation, conduct and recommendations of a citizens' jury in 2023.

Methods

Thematic analysis of the transcribed facilitated discussions identified the well‐informed priorities of a diverse and representative group of Western Sydney citizens. Listening to internal and external advisory groups delivered communication pathways, expert presenters, handbook preparation and practical support for the jury event. Consistent with the principle that research about the community should include the community, four consumer advisors were colleagues in the research team.

Results

The jury supported a focus on prevention, including early intervention to keep children thriving and connected at school, and better cross‐sectoral bonds via coalitions to enable social care to be linked to health care. Team‐based care in general practice for proactive data use and building a culture for relationship‐based care, developing a patient‐centred workforce through incentivising students and expediting registration of overseas trained health workers were recommended. Assets‐based community development was seen as an essential approach in linking the community with these recommendations.

Conclusion

The use of citizens' juries in primary health settings is rare. In this culturally diverse community, WentWest now has a foundational understanding of what investments will deliver and has committed to institutionalising this deliberative approach into a permanent citizens assembly.

Patient and Public Contribution

The design of the jury was guided by several advisory groups across the local region. The research team included four consumer advisors to provide overarching feedback and external insights. The jurors were selected to be representative of the regional community. They developed the recommendations reported in this article.

Trial Registration

This research does not involve clinical trials.
Morality as a cause, not only an effect, of evolution: Thomistic reflections on gene‐culture coevolutionary theory
Authors: Lyons Nathan
Published: February 2025

Some recent philosophical analyses of gene‐culture coevolutionary theory propose that morality is a contributing cause in (and not only an outcome of) human evolution. This paper considers implications of this idea for Thomistic moral theory. According to the coevolutionary account, the social practices of early human communities create selection pressures in favour of pro‐moral adaptations, making the evolution of morality a ‘biocultural’ process in which culture in some respects drives biology. This position chimes with, and indeed advances, some core themes of Thomistic ethics, including: the abiding significance of moral passions; the centrality of practical reason; the social character of practical reason; moral realism; the naturalness of morality; the link between nature and normativity. Biocultural evolutionary theory can thus offer Thomistic ethicists some new ways to understand their old ideas. If it is true that morality is a cause and not only an effect of human evolution, then Thomists are invited to see morality as an even more natural phenomenon than they previously thought.
Stage III substaging and outcomes in patients with bladder cancer undergoing radical cystectomy
Authors: Hara Shuhei , Fukuokaya Wataru , Miki Jun , Taoka Rikiya , Saito Ryoichi , Matsui Yoshiyuki , Hatakeyama Shingo , Kawahara Takashi , Matsuda Ayumu , Kawai Taketo , Kato Minoru , Sazuka Tomokazu , Sano Takeshi , Urabe Fumihiko , Kashima Soki , Naito Hirohito , Murakami Yoji , Miyake Makito , Daizumoto Kei , Matsushita Yuto , Hayashi Takuji , Inokuchi Junichi , Sugino Yusuke , Shiga Kenichiro , Yamaguchi Noriya , Yamamoto Shingo , Yasue Keiji , Abe Takashige , Nakanishi Shotaro , Hashine Katsuyoshi , Fujii Masato , Nishihara Kiyoaki , Matsumoto Hiroaki , Tatarano Shuichi , Wada Koichiro , Sekito Sho , Maruyama Ryo , Nishiyama Naotaka , Nishiyama Hiroyuki , Kitamura Hiroshi , Kimura Takahiro ,   the Japan Urological Oncology Group
Published: February 2025

Objective

To examine the association between substaging and outcomes following radical cystectomy (RC) in patients with stage III bladder cancer.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective observational study using nationwide data from Japan, including 708 patients with stage III bladder cancer who underwent RC. Substaging was based on the American Joint Committee on Cancer's 8th edition. pT3‐4aN0 and pTanyN1 were newly defined as stage IIIA, while pTanyN2‐3 were defined as stage IIIB. Baseline covariates were balanced using inverse probability of treatment weighting. We analyzed disease‐free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS) across these substages and among the sub‐groups: pT3‐4aN0, pTanyN1, and pTanyN2‐3.

Results

We found evidence that stage IIIB bladder cancer had inferior outcomes than stage IIIA (DFS, hazard ratio, 1.61 [95% confidence interval, 1.28–2.02]; OS, 1.61 [1.25–2.09]). Furthermore, there was evidence of the difference in outcomes between pT3‐4aN0 versus pTanyN2‐3 (DFS, 1.73 [1.35–2.23]; OS, 1.63 [1.23–2.15]), while no evidence of the difference between pT3‐4aN0 and pTanyN1 was observed (DFS, 1.27 [0.96–1.67]; OS, 1.09 [0.78–1.53]). We did not find evidence of heterogeneity in the effects of the substaging on OS by the use of perioperative chemotherapy.

Conclusion

This prognostic study supports the current stage III substaging of patients with bladder cancer who underwent RC. Importantly, there was no difference in OS between pT3‐4N0 and pTanyN1 in patients with stage IIIA bladder cancer. These findings may help guide treatment decisions for patients with stage III operable bladder cancer.
Nanoindentation and deformation behaviors of α$\alpha$‐Al2O3${\rm Al}_2 {\rm O}_3$: A molecular dynamic study
Authors: Xu Qinqin , Goda Ibrahim , Zhang Yanming , Papanikolaou Stefanos
Published: February 2025

Studying the nanoindentation behavior of materials at the atomic level is crucial for advancing technologies involving energetic atom bombardment, ion implantation, and nanomechanical testing. Using molecular dynamics simulations with two typical rigid ion interatomic potentials (fixed charges), we showed that the mechanical responses and dislocation nucleation of alumina (‐) are highly temperature‐ and orientation‐dependent. The complex behavior in dislocation dynamics has been rationalized by computing the distribution of stacking fault energy. It is further found that SHIK potential provides better accuracy in describing dislocation dynamics at a much lower computational cost.
Optimizing the mechanical performance of nacre‐like hydroxyapatite/polymethylmethacrylate–polyacrylic acid composites with apatite‐wollastonite
Authors: Tabrizian Parinaz , Sun Huijun , Ghorbani Farnaz , Qambrani Aqsa , Armstrong James P. K. , Sui Tan , Davis Sean , Su Bo
Published: February 2025

Biomimetic materials inspired by the hierarchical structure of nacre offer promising opportunities to enhance the mechanical strength and toughness of load‐bearing bone implants. This study investigates the incorporation of apatite‐wollastonite (AW) into nacre‐like hydroxyapatite (HA)/polymethylmethacrylate–polyacrylic acid (PMMA–PAA) composites to improve their mechanical properties. The composite mimics the natural nacre structure, featuring a brick‐and‐mortar architecture where ceramic components form the “bricks,” and the polymer phase acts as the “mortar.” The results showed that adding AW significantly increased the density of the ceramic scaffolds and improved the sinterability of HA. However, at higher AW concentrations (e.g., 20 wt%), excessive grain growth was observed, which could negatively affect the composite's mechanical properties. The best mechanical performance was achieved at 15 wt% AW, which enhanced the sintering process and reinforced the HA through the formation of a stronger wollastonite phase, as revealed by x‐ray diffraction analysis. Mechanical testing showed that the composite with 15 wt% AW exhibited superior properties, with flexural strength increasing from 158.2 ± 7.1 MPa (for HA/PMMA–PAA) to 188.7 ± 6.2 MPa (for AW–HA/PMMA–PAA). Fracture toughness also improved significantly, from 5.2 to 10.2 MPa m1/2. In addition to improved flexural strength and fracture toughness, the composite's Young's modulus of 28.5 ± 1.6 GPa closely matched that of cortical bone, reducing the risk of stress shielding, a common issue with commercial implants. Acellular bioactivity tests demonstrated the formation of a biologically relevant apatite layer on the composite surface, indicating its potential to promote osseointegration. Cytocompatibility assays confirmed favorable cell proliferation and viability, supporting its suitability for clinical applications. In summary, the addition of AW enhanced sinterability and introduced a stronger wollastonite phase within the HA ceramic layer, leading to improved strength and toughness of the nacre‐like HA/PMMA–PAA composites. However, there was an optimal AW concentration that balanced superior mechanical properties with controlled grain growth. The bioactive and cytocompatible composites showed great promise as candidates for next‐generation load‐bearing bone implants.
Coupled Ultrasound and Microwave‐Assisted Extraction of Carotenoids From Citrus clementina Peels and In Vitro Evaluation of Their Biological Activities
Authors: Kadi Ahcene , Teffane Mohand , Taibi Abdeslem , Arroul Younes , Boudries Hafid , Bachir‐bey Mostapha , Souagui Samiha
Published: February 2025

This research investigates the optimization of carotenoid extraction from Citrus clementina peels using Ultrasonic‐Microwave‐assisted extraction (U‐MAE) and evaluates their biological activities. The study employs Response surface methodology (RSM) to determine optimal extraction parameters (hexane percentage in hexane/acetone mixture, sonication time, and irradiation time) that yielded the highest total carotenoid content (TCC) with high total antioxidant activity (TAA) and to assess the impact of each parameter on the responses. Additionally, the antioxidant capacity, anti‐inflammatory, antidiabetic, and antimicrobial activities were analyzed using in vitro spectrophotometric methods. The results demonstrate a significant positive correlation between hexane percentage and both TCC and TAA. Furthermore, the results revealed that shorter sonication and irradiation times led to important increases in TCC and TAA. Additionally, the study assessed the effect of particle size on TCC and TAA, showing that finer particle sizes resulted in higher carotenoid content and antioxidant activity. The carotenoid‐rich extract exhibited robust antioxidant, anti‐inflammatory, and antidiabetic activities, as well as notable antibacterial and antifungal properties, suggesting its potential application as a substitute for synthetic counterparts in various industries, including food and pharmaceuticals. Overall, this research provides valuable insights into the extraction and bioactivity of carotenoids from C. clementina peels.
Assessment of intra‐amniotic colonization based on copy numbers of 16S ribosomal deoxyribonucleic acid: A diagnostic and prognostic study
Authors: Urushiyama Daichi , Kiyoshima Chihiro , Hirakawa Toyofumi , Shibata Mami , Imi Shiori , Kurakazu Masamitsu , Miyata Kohei , Setoue Takashi , Nagamitsu Shinichiro , Nomiyama Makoto , Nakabayashi Kazuhiko , Yotsumoto Fusanori , Hata Kenichiro , Miyamoto Shingo
Published: February 2025

Aim

This study aimed to assess amniotic fluid bacterial load using the copy number of 16S ribosomal deoxyribonucleic acid and to clarify its association with perinatal outcomes.

Methods

This retrospective diagnostic and prognostic study included 63 patients with preterm labor and suspected intra‐amniotic infection who underwent amniocentesis before 34 weeks of gestation. We measured the copy number of 16S ribosomal deoxyribonucleic acid in 1 mL of amniotic fluid using droplet digital polymerase chain reaction and graded infections as Grade (G) 0, 1, 2, or 3. Case–control analysis was performed to compare G3 (N = 29), G1–2 (N = 18), and G0 (N = 17) patients. The main outcome measures were histologic chorioamnionitis, funisitis, and amniocentesis‐to‐delivery time windows.

Results

The frequency of histologic chorioamnionitis (Stage III) and funisitis was as follows: G3, 86% and 79%; G1–2, 28% and 56%; and G0, 0% and 6%, respectively. The rate of post‐amniocentesis delivery within 1 and 2 days was as follows: G3, 62% and 83%; G1–2, 56% and 78%; G0, 13% and 25%, respectively. Comparisons between the G3 and G0 groups revealed significant differences in all criteria (p < 0.05). Additionally, significant differences were noted in pathological inflammatory findings between the G3 and G1–2 groups, as well as in all perinatal outcomes between the G1–2 and G0 groups (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

Our diagnostic method, based on the copy number of 16S ribosomal deoxyribonucleic acid, supports intra‐amniotic colonization assessment, guiding clinical decisions regarding the timing of delivery and potentially informing antimicrobial interventions.
Social Norms Drivers on Public Good Contributions
Authors: Richefort Lionel , Pedehour Pauline
Published: February 2025

This article develops a model of public good provision with social norms determined by network relationships. Individuals' wealth allocation preferences are guided by the benefit they obtain from a private good and a public good, and the social value they receive when following their neighbors in their contribution to the public good. We find conditions under which (i) redistributions of wealth will increase total giving if the transfer goes to the less norm‐conformist agent, (ii) an increase in tastes for conformity of the weak contributors will increase total giving, and (iii) the deletion of a link between two contributors will increase total giving. Subsequently, examples in very small networks allow us to discuss how these results can help policymakers encourage the voluntary provision of public good.
The future of education in sleep science and medicine in Europe: Report of an ESRS workshop
Authors: McNicholas W. T. , Arnardottir E. S. , Vyazovskiy V. V. , Pevernagie D. , Penzel T. , Peigneux P. , Grote L. , Van Der Werf Y. , de Jongh F. , Schmidt M. , Adamantidis M. , Sekaran S. , Biller A. M. , Knobl B. , Luppi P.‐H. , Bassetti C. L. , Paunio T.
Published: February 2025

The European Sleep Research Society (ESRS) is the leading voice for sleep medicine and research in Europe and includes in its mission the objective to promote and develop sleep education. As part of this objective, the Society established a Multidisciplinary Task Force on sleep education, which proposed a workshop on this topic to define the role of ESRS in the future of sleep education in Europe. This includes defining the domains of operation by the ESRS, its most important links and networks, and to recognise areas for development. A concrete goal was to make an action plan with suggestions for eventual Task Forces. Recommendations from the workshop include active collaboration with other Societies and University degree courses in sleep with the objective to position the ESRS as the central focus for sleep education in Europe. Predefined learning objectives and Entrustable Professional Activities were identified as key aspects of future direction. The ESRS Textbook in Sleep Medicine provides a valuable educational resource, and the next edition should expand on the traditional format to include digital material and an integrative platform. The workshop also identified the need to develop a more compact publication to inform non‐sleep specialists, university students, and interested members of the public with basic information on sleep and sleep disorders.
The interaction between comorbidities and sleep stages influences oxygen re‐saturation characteristics
Authors: Howarth Timothy P. , Hietakoste Salla , Ebrahimian Serajeddin , Rissanen Marika , Kainulainen Samu , Karhu Tuomas
Published: February 2025

Sleep stages exhibit differing patterns of cardiac, respiratory and nervous system activation. Rapid eye movement (REM) sleep is associated with deeper oxygen desaturation events in obstructive sleep apnea. However, no studies have looked to the effect of sleep staging on re‐saturation characteristics. Polysomnographic data from the Sleep Heart Health Study were utilised to derive oxygen saturation parameters from events having both desaturation and re‐saturation parts. Sleep stages were described as non‐REM (NREM) 1 or 2 (combined), 3 and REM. Sleep stage effects on desaturation and re‐saturation characteristics were investigated in a healthy subgroup (n = 759) and participants with hypertension (n = 2534), lung disease (n = 715), heart failure (n = 199) and myocardial infarction (n = 713). A total of 3793 participants (48.3% female) were included for analysis (171,976 saturation events; median 20 per participant). Events during REM had the longest duration, deepest nadirs and greatest area for desaturations and re‐saturations. Sleep stage effected re‐saturation parameters more than desaturation parameters, with a relative difference from NREM 1/2 to REM in duration of 16.7% and 29.8%, in rate of 0.2% and 4.5% and in area of 36.1% and 48.0% for desaturation and re‐saturation, respectively, among healthy participants. Similarly, the effect of comorbidities was greater upon re‐saturations than desaturations, as participants with heart failure recorded a relative difference to healthy participants of 10.3% and 24.4% for desaturation and re‐saturation duration, respectively, 12.8% and 15.0% for rate and 6.4% and 16.4% for area. Sleep stages and comorbidities have significant effects upon nocturnal oxygen re‐saturation parameters. Cardiorespiratory comorbidities elicit greater degradations in oxygen re‐saturations than they do desaturations.
Virulence of Candida spp. Isolates From Patients With Recurrent Vulvovaginal Candidosis Is Associated With the Number of Episodes
Authors: Consuegra‐Asprilla Jeiser Marcelo , Taborda Felipe , Pérez Verónica , Torres Brajhan , Rodríguez‐Echeverri Carolina , Muñoz Julián E. , González Ángel
Published: February 2025

Background

Recurrent vulvovaginal candidosis (RVVC) has been associated with increased antifungal resistance. Recently, we reported that Candida isolates from Colombian patients with RVVC did not show an increase in antifungal resistance.

Objective

The aim of this study was to evaluate the virulence of Candida isolates from patients with RVVC.

Methods

A total of 40 Candida isolates were evaluated (37 C. albicans and 3 C. lusitaniae ). C. albicans isolates were divided into two groups based on the number of VVC episodes in patients per year: Group 1 (four to seven episodes; n = 26) and Group 2 (≥ eight episodes; n = 11). The XTT assay was used to assess biofilm formation. Galleria mellonella larvae were used for survival analysis and fungal load assessment, and the qPCR technique to determine the expression of the PRA1 gene.

Results

It was observed that C. lusitaniae and C. albicans isolates from patients with ≥ eight VVC episodes per year exhibited a greater capacity to form biofilms compared to those from patients with four to seven VVC episodes. Moreover, in the G. mellonella model, larvae inoculated with isolates from RVVC patients exhibited approximately 80% mortality. Similarly, larvae infected with C. albicans from patients who experienced ≥ eight VVC episodes showed a significantly higher fungal load compared to the other evaluated groups; likewise, the expression of the PRA1 gene was significantly higher in isolates from patients with ≥ eight VVC episodes.

Conclusion

These results indicate that Candida isolates from patients with RVVC exhibit a high degree of virulence and suggest that virulence may be one of the mechanisms explaining recurrence rather than antifungal resistance itself.
Manipulation of the brown glume and internode 1 gene leads to alterations in the colouration of lignified tissues, lignin content and pathogen resistance in wheat
Authors: Hua Lei , Song Rui , Hao Xiaohua , Zhang Jing , Liu Yanna , Luo Jing , Ren Xiaopeng , Li Hongna , Wang Guiping , Rehman Shams ur , Wu Jiajie , Fu Daolin , Dong Yuxiu , Wang Xiaodong , Zhang Chaozhong , Chen Shisheng
Published: February 2025

Lignin is a crucial component of the cell wall, providing mechanical support and protection against biotic and abiotic stresses. However, little is known about wheat lignin‐related mutants and their roles in pathogen defence. Here, we identified an ethyl methanesulfonate (EMS)‐derived Aegilops tauschii mutant named brown glume and internode 1 (bgi1), which exhibits reddish‐brown pigmentation in various tissues, including internodes, spikes and glumes. Using map‐based cloning and single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) analysis, we identified AET6Gv20438400 (BGI1) as the leading candidate gene, encoding the TaCAD1 protein. The mutation occurred in the splice acceptor site of the first intron, resulting in a premature stop codon in BGI1. We validated the function of BGI1 using loss‐of‐function EMS and gene editing knockout mutants, both of which displayed reddish‐brown pigmentation in lignified tissues. BGI1 knockout mutants exhibited reduced lignin content and shearing force relative to wild type, while BGI1 overexpression transgenic plants showed increased lignin content and enhanced disease resistance against common root rot and Fusarium crown rot. We confirmed that BGI1 exhibits CAD activity both in vitro and in vivo, playing an important role in lignin biosynthesis. BGI1 was highly expressed in the stem and spike, with its localisation observed in the cytoplasm. Transcriptome analysis revealed the regulatory networks associated with BGI1. Finally, we demonstrated that BGI1 interacts with TaPYL‐1D, potentially involved in the abscisic acid signalling pathway. The identification and functional characterisation of BGI1 significantly advance our understanding of CAD proteins in lignin biosynthesis and plant defence against pathogen infection in wheat.
A novel microcapsule composite Spherulites Peony Superior Retinol mitigates UVB‐induced skin damage in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Han Jiejun , Gong Rongyue , Liu Yuankun , Gong Tiangui , Wang Bin , Zhang Laidi , Chen Jiayue
Published: February 2025

Skin serves as our outermost barrier, protecting our bodies from various environmental damages. Increasing research has revealed that UVB is a primary factor for extrinsic aging. This study explored the role of a novel microcapsule composite Spherulites Peony Superior Retinol (SPSR) on skin damage induced by UVB. SPSR exhibited a capacity to eliminate UVB‐induced ROS. By measurement of cyclobutane pyrimidine dimers (CPD) and comet assay, the results implied that SPSR mitigates DNA damage from oxidative damage caused by UVB. In addition, UVB radiation typically leads to an increase in inflammatory factors within the skin. Decreased gene expressions of interleukin‐1α and TNF‐α have been observed in HaCaT cells. Moreover, a decreased gene expression of extracellular matrix (ECM)‐related protein, including fibronectin (FN1), Col1A1, and Col3A1 caused by UVB was mitigated by SPSR. Furthermore, the clinical trials with 30 volunteers confirmed the significant relief and antiwrinkle effects of the cosmetic formulation containing 0.1% SPSR. These findings implied the promising potential of SPSR as a comprehensive solution for combating the detrimental effects of UVB exposure and maintaining skin health.
How Meditation Promotes Well‐Being: Applying a Dual‐System Theory
Authors: Lehman Barbara J. , Fogel Camille A. , Wiederaenders Evan
Published: February 2025

Mindfulness meditation and Buddhist‐informed contemplative approaches promote health and well‐being in part by helping meditators view present‐moment reality from a less immersed perspective. Contemplative practices build meta‐awareness and help practitioners psychologically distance from mental activity, thereby reducing negative emotions and craving while promoting mental flexibility. Metcalfe and Mischel's dual‐system model contrasts cool analytic processes with more emotional hot system processes. Contemplative practices facilitate adaptive coping in part by reducing hot and promoting cool system activation. Buddhist philosophies emphasizing the importance of present‐moment awareness, the futility of striving for self‐focused goals (worldly concerns), and the self‐perpetuating nature of negative emotions are used to explain how contemplative practices deter hot system activation and promote cool system activation over time.
Integrated STEM conceptualizations among teachers following a professional development program
Authors: Mesutoglu Canan , Akgündüz Devrim
Published: February 2025

Because teachers are now more often expected to develop integrated STEM lessons, it is essential to understand their conceptualizations to be able to support them effectively. This qualitative study explored teachers' integrated STEM conceptualizations upon participation in an engineering‐focused professional development program of 4 days. Data sources included written accounts to open‐ended questions collected from the 33 participating in‐service teachers and the STEM lesson plans the teacher teams developed during the program. The main emerging STEM characteristics were a focus on real‐world problems, engagement in engineering design, content integration, data practices, and STEM careers. Comparisons with the lesson plans and the further study of the conceptions through their distributions showed a limited attention for the broader local and social context, identifying and improving design solutions, engaging in reflection on STEM knowledge and skills, content integration with technology and mathematics knowledge and skills as opposed to assigning supportive roles, exposure to STEM careers and non‐STEM disciplines, and ways to foster a wide array of complex 21st century skills. Teachers can also be supported on the use of student‐centered pedagogies and problem solving.
Partial root‐zone drying irrigation enhances synthesis of glutathione in barley roots to improve low temperature tolerance
Authors: Mu Peng , Ye Fan , Liu Xintong , Zhang Peng , Liu Tianhao , Li Xiangnan
Published: February 2025

Partial root‐zone drying irrigation (PRD) has been widely employed to regulate crop root development and responses to environmental fluctuations. However, its role in reprogramming rhizospheric microorganisms and inducing plant stress tolerance remains largely unexplored. This study aimed to investigate the effects of PRD on the response of barley (Hordeum vulgare) plants to low temperatures under various irrigation regimes. Under low temperature, barley plants subjected to PRD exhibited a significantly enhanced net photosynthetic rate, stomatal conductance, and maximum quantum efficiency of photosystem II compared to fully irrigated plants. Additionally, these plants showed a reduction in relative conductance. These results suggest that PRD could be a viable strategy for enhancing crop stress tolerance through irrigation management. Metabolomic analysis revealed that PRD influenced the accumulation of glutathione and 9‐octadecenamide in roots under low temperature, which was corroborated by transcriptome profiling data. Furthermore, the study highlighted the close association between this regulatory process and rhizosphere core microorganisms, such as Sphingobium and Mortierella, enriched in barley roots under PRD. This study revealed the mechanism underlying plant stress tolerance induction by PRD and the roles of rhizosphere microorganisms in this process. Also, the current study suggests that PRD is a promising strategy for enhancing crop stress tolerance through effective irrigation management.
Quality of whole blood stored in room temperature for up to 5 days
Authors: Susila Sanna , Helin Tuukka , Joutsi‐Korhonen Lotta , Lauronen Jouni , Ilmakunnas Minna
Published: February 2025

Background

Non‐refrigerated whole blood can be used for bleeding emergencies when cold‐stored whole blood is unavailable. Storage time in room temperature is usually limited to 24 h although there is little evidence supporting this practice. We studied the quality of whole blood stored in room temperature for 5 days to investigate the effects of prolonged storage time.

Study Design and Methods

Non‐leukoreduced whole blood in CPDA‐1 from 10 group O or A RhD positive male donors was stored in +22°C for 120 h. Samples were taken daily to assess blood cultures, blood count and metabolic parameters. Platelet function and blood coagulation were evaluated with multiple electrode aggregometry, viscoelastic tests (sonorheometry and rotational thromboelastometry), thrombin generation assay and measurements of individual clotting factors.

Results

Blood cell counts remained stable during storage. Metabolic changes were similar to those previously reported in cold‐stored blood products. Most coagulation factor levels, including FVIII, decreased during storage but remained within physiological range. Thrombin generation remained mostly intact during storage. In viscoelastic tests, clotting times prolonged, but clot strength remained stable. Platelet function in multiple electrode aggregometry impaired along with storage. No bacterial growth was detected in any sample.

Conclusion

Whole blood stored in room temperature for 5 days seems bacteriologically safe and retains most of its metabolic and hemostatic function. These results suggest that whole blood stored in room temperature may be usable for longer than the currently recommended 24 h.
An in silico simulation of the frequency of administering HLA‐incompatible low titer group O whole blood units when the donor pool includes unscreened female donors
Authors: Yazer Mark H. , Ngamsuntikul Samantha , Gandhi Manish , Apelseth Torunn , Taylor Audra , Seheult Jansen N.
Published: February 2025

Background

As low titer group O whole blood (LTOWB) increases in popularity, blood centers are finding innovative ways of maintaining the supply. One potential way is collecting LTOWB from parous female donors without testing for HLA antibodies. This in silico simulation predicted the risk of an LTOWB unit containing an HLA antibody and the subsequent risk for an HLA‐incompatible transfusion.

Methods

An LTOWB blood bank with 1 million units was simulated consisting of male, nulliparous, and parous female donors. The proportion of each donor type was modeled after the sex distribution at US blood centers. The parity of female donors was calculated based on the average number of live births per female depending on her age. HLA‐alloimmunization risk was determined by her parity status. The HLA haplotypes of the simulated recipients were derived from the 100 most common HLA haplotypes in the US National Marrow Registry Program database. The proportion of different race/ethnic groups in the US was used to simulate 100,000 LTOWB recipients to whom between 1 and 10 units were administered.

Results

Overall, the risk of an LTOWB unit containing at least one HLA antibody was 12.2% and the rate of receiving an HLA‐incompatible unit was 21.3%. The risk of receiving an HLA‐incompatible unit rose from 4.8% after receipt of one unit to 36.5% after 10 units.

Conclusion

Blood collectors and hospitals should evaluate the potential TRALI risk against the benefit of a potentially expanded inventory of LTOWB before collecting plasma‐containing products from non‐HLA‐tested parous female donors.
Textual evidence systematic reviews series paper 2: challenges and strategies in developing a search strategy for systematic reviews of textual evidence
Authors: Edwards Deborah , Cooper Adam , McArthur Alexa , Barber Brittany V. , Gregg Emily , Weeks Lori E. , Jordan Zoe
Published: February 2025

Objective:

The objective of this paper is to highlight and address challenges as well as provide strategies for developing searches for systematic reviews of textual evidence.

Introduction:

When conducting a JBI review of textual evidence, it is important to consider different sources of published and unpublished material. While systematic search methodologies have been well-established for searching traditional peer-reviewed literature, applying those same rigorous methods to literature outside of academic journals can be more challenging. This paper highlights and addresses the challenges of developing searches for systematic reviews of textual evidence and provides strategies on how to conduct these. It takes into consideration the unique complexities of locating published material outside of academic journals and presents guidance for developing more robust searches incorporating textual evidence.

Discussion:

Researchers should acknowledge the value of textual evidence, including opinions, narratives, and policies, as crucial for informing health care practices. It is also essential to clearly define the types of textual evidence needed and establish comprehensive search parameters to ensure thorough coverage. To enhance the search process, researchers should follow a structured 3-phase approach: first, identify relevant keywords; second, conduct tailored searches in bibliographic databases; and third, perform supplementary searches. Furthermore, it is recommended they collaborate with information specialists and experts to refine and strengthen their search techniques. Researchers should also explore a variety of sources, including dedicated databases, conference proceedings, theses, dissertations, and media reports, to gather valuable textual evidence. Finally, it is important to systematically document all search processes to support transparency and reproducibility in the review.

Conclusion:

Searching broadly across bibliographic databases and including textual evidence from non-academic journals may provide the best available and most appropriate evidence to address specific questions.
Textual evidence systematic reviews series paper 3: critical appraisal of evidence from narrative, opinion, and policy
Authors: McArthur Alexa , Cooper Adam , Edwards Deborah , Klugarova Jitka , Yan Hu , Barber Brittany V. , Gregg Emily E. , Weeks Lori E. , Jordan Zoe
Published: February 2025

JBI has long held the view that an inclusive approach to the conceptualization of what counts as evidence is important to the evidence-based movement. JBI’s approach for appraising textual evidence had encompassed all forms of text (narrative, opinion, and policy), with one general tool used to guide critical appraisal. The proliferation of textual evidence and increase in textual evidence reviews demonstrate the need to reconceptualize JBI’s methodological approach to critically appraising textual evidence. The objective of this paper is to outline the updated methodological approach to systematic reviews of textual evidence, especially in relation to the development of 3 separate critical appraisal tools for narrative, expert opinion, and policy text. Using an adapted Delphi approach, the JBI Textual Evidence Methodology Group convened over several rounds of meetings and discussions with international experts to reach consensus toward the reconceptualization of critical appraisal tools for textual evidence sources. Strategies to effectively interrogate the legitimacy and authenticity of sources were found to be dependent upon the type of textual evidence under review. Therefore, 3 separate critical appraisal tools for narrative, expert opinion, and policy text were developed. This paper provides an overview of the development of 3 separate critical appraisal tools, highlighting the complex nature of textual evidence data sources.
Multi-Robot Scan-n-Print for Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing
Authors: Lu Chen-Lung , He Honglu , Ren Jinhan , Dhar Joni , Saunders Glenn , Julius Agung , Samuel Johnson , Wen John T.
Published: February 2025

Robotic Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing (WAAM) is a metal additive manufacturing technology offering flexible 3D printing while ensuring high-quality near-net-shape final parts. However, WAAM also suffers from geometric imprecision, especially for low-melting-point metals such as aluminum alloys. In this article, we present a multi-robot framework for WAAM process monitoring and control. We consider a three-robot setup: a 6-DoF welding robot, a 2-DoF trunnion platform, and a 6-DoF sensing robot with a wrist-mounted laser line scanner measuring the printed part height profile. The welding parameters, including the wire feed rate, are held constant based on the materials used, so the control input is the robot path speed. The measured output is the part height profile. The planning phase decomposes the target shape into slices of uniform height. During runtime, the sensing robot scans each printed layer, and the robot path speed for the next layer is adjusted based on the deviation from the desired profile. The adjustment is based on an identified model correlating the path speed to changes in height. The control architecture coordinates the synchronous motion and data acquisition between all robots and sensors. Using a three-robot WAAM testbed, we demonstrate significant improvements of the closed-loop scan-n-print approach over the current open loop result on both a flat wall and a more complex turbine blade shape.
Beneficiaries' Role in Averting Quality Challenges in Government Social Housing Construction
Authors: Amoah Christopher
Published: February 2025

Upon assuming office in 1994, the South African government began constructing social housing for the less privileged to improve their socioeconomic living standards. However, one of the primary factors behind the rising unhappiness with government-constructed social housing is the beneficiaries' lack of involvement. The study sought to identify beneficiaries' role in averting quality challenges in government social housing construction. A qualitative approach using random sampling was used to interview construction professionals with experience constructing government social housing. Online interviews were conducted with 29 participants, and the data were analyzed using a thematic content analysis method to generate themes and subthemes. The results indicate that to avert quality challenges in government-constructed social housing, the beneficiaries have a considerable role in the planning, construction, and postconstruction phases of the project implementation. Beneficiaries must be provided with the necessary documentation, prevent political interference, participate in the construction process, monitor progress, and train to maintain the houses after construction. The lack of participation of beneficiaries in government-constructed social housing leads to new housing construction with subpar quality standards, leading to the dissatisfaction of beneficiaries and the waste of public funds. There is a need to institute measures to enhance the beneficiaries' participation in the project implementation process to achieve the desired outcome. This study indicates how beneficiaries can partake in the development process of government-constructed social housing. The findings will enable beneficiaries to participate in ensuring satisfactory constructed social housing.