bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Vertical transmission of core endophytes through the seeds
Authors: Sanz-Puente Irene , Redondo-Salvo Santiago , Torres-Cortés Gloria , de Toro María , Fernandes Susana , Börner Andreas , Lorenzo Óscar , de la Cruz Fernando , Robledo Marta
Published: January 2025

Plant-associated microorganisms, particularly endophytes, are essential for plant health and development. Endophytic microbiota is intimately associated with host plants colonizing various tissues, including seeds. Seed endophytes are particularly noteworthy because of their potential for vertical transmission. This pathway may play a role in the long-term establishment and evolution of stable bacteria-host interactions across plant generations. Hundreds of seed-bacteria associations have been recently uncovered; however, most seem to be transient or unspecific. While it is known that microorganisms can be transmitted from plant tissues to seeds and from seeds to seedlings, the experimental confirmation of bacterial transfer through successive plant generations remains unreported. In this study, we identifiedPantoeaas the unique core endophytic bacteria inhabiting the endosperms of 24 wheat seed samples originally harvested in different worldwide locations. Remarkably,Pantoeais the genus with the highest relative average abundance in wheat seeds (61%) and also in germinated seedlings grown under gnotobiotic conditions (30%). In the field, it was the only genus dwelling roots, shoots, spikes and seeds of 4 different wheat varieties tested and its abundance progressively increased across these tissues. This genuine pattern of vertical enrichment, which was not found in other common wheat-associated taxa, suggests a role in the transfer of these endophytic bacteria through the seeds. To confirm intergenerational transmission, parental plants were inoculated with labelledPantoeaisolates, which specifically colonized the next generations of Poaceae plants, experimentally demonstrating bacterial vertical inheritance to the offspring generations and suggesting transmission specificity.
The Chimeric Peptide (GEP44) Reduces Body Weight and Both Energy Intake and Energy Expenditure in Diet-Induced Obese Rats
Authors: Goldberg Matvey , Blevins James E. , Wolden-Hanson Tami , Elfers Clinton T. , Chichura Kylie S. , Ashlaw Emily F. , den Hartigh Laura J. , Roth Christian L. , Doyle Robert P.
Published: January 2025

We recently reported that a chimeric peptide (GEP44) targeting the glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor (GLP-1R) and neuropeptide Y1- and Y2-receptors decreased body weight (BW), energy intake and core temperature in diet-induced obese (DIO) male and female mice. In the current study, we tested the hypothesis that the strong reduction of body weight in response to GEP44 is partially related to the stimulation of energy expenditure (EE). To test this, rats were maintained on a HFD for at least 4 months to elicit DIO prior to undergoing a sequential 2-day vehicle period, 2-day GEP44 (50 nmol/kg) period and a minimum 2-day washout period and detailed measures of energy homeostasis. GEP44 (50 nmol/kg) reduced EE (indirect calorimetry), respiratory exchange ratio (RER), core temperature, activity, energy intake and BW in male and female rats. As in our previous study in mice, GEP44 reduced BW in male and female HFD-fed rats by 3.8 ± 0.2% and 2.3 ± 0.4%, respectively. These effects appear to be mediated by increased lipid oxidation and reductions of energy intake as GEP44 reduced RER and cumulative energy intake in male and female HFD-fed rats. The strong reduction of body weight in response to GEP44 is related to a robust reduction of energy intake, but not to stimulation of EE. The paradoxical finding that GEP44 reduced EE might be secondary to a reduction of diet-induced thermogenesis or might indicate an important mechanism to limit the overall efficacy of GEP44 to prevent further weight loss.
Noncanonical Short-Latency Auditory Pathway Directly Activates Deep Cortical Layers
Authors: Garcia Michellee M , Kline Amber M , Onodera Koun , Tsukano Hiroaki , Dandu Pranathi R , Acosta Hailey C , Kasten Michael , Manis Paul B , Kato Hiroyuki K
Published: January 2025

Auditory processing in the cerebral cortex is considered to begin with thalamocortical inputs to layer 4 (L4) of the primary auditory cortex (A1). In this canonical model, A1 L4 inputs initiate a hierarchical cascade, with higher-order cortices receiving pre-processed information for the slower integration of complex sounds. Here, we identify alternative ascending pathways in mice that bypass A1 and directly reach multiple layers of the secondary auditory cortex (A2), indicating parallel activation of these areas alongside sequential information processing. We found that L6 of both A1 and A2 receive short-latency (<10 ms) sound inputs, comparable in speed to the canonical A1 L4 input but transmitted through higher-order thalamic nuclei. Additionally, A2 L4 is innervated by a caudal subdivision within the traditionally defined primary thalamus, which we now identify as belonging to the non-primary system. Notably, both thalamic regions receive projections from distinct subdivisions of the higher-order inferior colliculus, which in turn are directly innervated by cochlear nucleus neurons. These findings reveal alternative ascending pathways reaching A2 at L4 and L6 via secondary subcortical structures. Thus, higher-order auditory cortex processes both slow, pre-processed information and rapid, direct sensory inputs, enabling parallel and distributed processing of fast sensory information across cortical areas.
Dynamic Transcriptomic Remodeling in Human Neural Progenitor Cells Reveals Mechanisms for Vision Preservation in Retinitis Pigmentosa Model
Authors: Shahin Saba , Bell Shaughn , Lu Bin , Banerjee Somanshu , Swarup Vivek , Xu Hui , Chetsawang Jason , Ramirez Stephany , Alfaro Jorge S , Laperle Alexander , Svendsen Soshana , Svendsen Clive N. , Wang Shaomei
Published: January 2025

Human neural progenitor cells (hNPCs) have shown promise in slowing down retinal degeneration in animal models and are currently being tested in clinical trials for treating retinitis pigmentosa (RP). However, the status of grafted hNPCs and their interaction with host retinal cells over time is largely unknown. Here, we investigated single-cell transcriptomic changes in grafted hNPCs and host retinal cells following injection into a rodent model for RP. Grafted hNPCs and host retinal cells undergo dynamic transcriptomic changes in the degenerative retinal environment. Grafted hNPCs protect vision through multiple mechanisms, including trophic factor support, modulation of metabolic activity, reduction of apoptosis, oxidative stress, and inflammation, alongside extracellular matrix remodeling. CellChat analysis revealed a progressive decline in intercellular signaling and communication strength between hNPCs and host retinal cells over time. This study indicates that enhancing trophic factor supports and improving host retinal environment are key targets to enable long-term vision preservation.
Necrotizing enterocolitis causes increased ileal goblet cell loss inWnt2bKO mice
Authors: Adegboye Comfort , Emeonye Chidera , Wu Yu-Syuan , Kwon Jaedeok , Oliveira Luiz Fernando Silva , Raveeniraraj Sathuwarman , O’Connell Amy E.
Published: January 2025

WNT2B is Wnt ligand which is able to support intestinal stem cells (ISC) in culture and support the intestinal epithelium in vivo. We have previously shown that WNT2B is critical for resistance to colitis, but not small intestinal injury, in the adult mouse. WNT2B is thought to coordinate with WNT3 in supporting ISC, and we have also shown that WNT3 expression is low in the early postnatal ileum in mice. Here, we hypothesized that WNT2B may be more critical in the small intestine during early development, and we challengedWnt2bKO mice and controls with experimental necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) on postnatal days 5-8.Wnt2bKO mice had similar ileum histology and injury scores to control mice. Molecular analyses showed thatWnt2bKO mice have differences inLgr5andTlr4expression compared to wild type controls in untreated conditions, but under experimental NEC expression of epithelial markers and inflammatory genes associated with NEC were similar to wild type. Periodic acid Schiff positive cells were lower in the villi ofWnt2bKO mice during NEC, however expression of goblet cell markers was not different compared to wild type mice. We also used an organoid-based NEC model to highlight the epithelium in isolation and also found no impact of WNT2B KO in the setting of NEC. These data further affirm that WNT2B is critical for inflammation responses in the mouse colon, but does not appear to play a major role in the small intestine, no matter the developmental period.
Neural encoding of biomechanically (im)possible human movements in occipitotemporal cortex
Authors: Marrazzo Giuseppe , De Martino Federico , Mukovskiy Albert , Giese Martin A. , de Gelder Beatrice
Published: January 2025

Understanding how the human brain processes body movements is essential for clarifying the mechanisms underlying social cognition and interaction. This study investigates the encoding of biomechanically possible and impossible body movements in occipitotemporal cortex using ultra-high field 7Tesla fMRI. By predicting the response of single voxels to impossible/possible movements using a computational modelling approach, our findings demonstrate that a combination of postural, biomechanical, and categorical features significantly predicts neural responses in the ventral visual cortex, particularly within the extrastriate body area (EBA), underscoring the brain’s sensitivity to biomechanical plausibility. Lastly, these findings highlight the functional heterogeneity of EBA, with specific regions (middle/superior occipital gyri) focusing on detailed biomechanical features and anterior regions (lateral occipital sulcus and inferior temporal gyrus) integrating more abstract, categorical information.
Imaging ferroelectric domains with soft-x-ray ptychography at the oxygen K-edge
Authors: Butcher Tim A. , Phillips Nicholas W. , Wei Chia-Chun , Chang Shih-Chao , Beinik Igor , Thånell Karina , Yang Jan-Chi , Huang Shih-Wen , Raabe Jörg , Finizio Simone
Published: January 2025

The ferroelectric domain structure of a freestanding BiFeO3 film was visualized by ptychographic dichroic imaging with linearly polarized x-rays at the O K-edge around 530 eV. The dichroic contrast is maximized at the energy of the hybridization of the O 2p state and the Fe 3d orbitals, which is split by the octahedral crystal field of the perovskite structure. The microscopy images thus obtained complement the ptychographic imaging of the antiferromagnetic contribution at the

Fe

L3-edge. The approach can be extended to the separation of different ferroic contributions in other multiferroic oxides.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Hadronic cross section measurements with the DAMPE space mission using 20 GeV-10 TeV cosmic-ray protons and
He4
Authors: Alemanno F. , An Q. , Azzarello P. , Barbato F. C. T. , Bernardini P. , Bi X. J. , Cagnoli I. , Cai M. S. , Casilli E. , Catanzani E. , Chang J. , Chen D. Y. , Chen J. L. , Chen Z. F. , Coppin P. , Cui M. Y. , Cui T. S. , Cui Y. X. , Dai H. T. , De Benedittis A. , De Mitri I. , de Palma F. , Di Giovanni A. , Ding Q. , Dong T. K. , Dong Z. X. , Donvito G. , Droz D. , Duan J. L. , Duan K. K. , Fan R. R. , Fan Y. Z. , Fang F. , Fang K. , Feng C. Q. , Feng L. , Frieden J. M. , Fusco P. , Gao M. , Gargano F. , Gong K. , Gong Y. Z. , Guo D. Y. , Guo J. H. , Han S. X. , Hu Y. M. , Huang G. S. , Huang X. Y. , Huang Y. Y. , Ionica M. , Jiang L. Y. , Jiang Y. Z. , Jiang W. , Kong J. , Kotenko A. , Kyratzis D. , Lei S. J. , Li W. H. , Li W. L. , Li X. , Li X. Q. , Liang Y. M. , Liu C. M. , Liu H. , Liu J. , Liu S. B. , Liu Y. , Loparco F. , Luo C. N. , Ma M. , Ma P. X. , Ma T. , Ma X. Y. , Marsella G. , Mazziotta M. N. , Mo D. , Niu X. Y. , Pan X. , Parenti A. , Peng W. X. , Peng X. Y. , Perrina C. , Putti-Garcia E. , Qiao R. , Rao J. N. , Ruina A. , Sarkar R. , Savina P. , Serpolla A. , Shangguan Z. , Shen W. H. , Shen Z. Q. , Shen Z. T. , Silveri L. , Song J. X. , Stolpovskiy M. , Su H. , Su M. , Sun H. R. , Sun Z. Y. , Surdo A. , Teng X. J. , Tykhonov A. , Wang J. Z. , Wang L. G. , Wang S. , Wang S. X. , Wang X. L. , Wang Y. , Wang Y. F. , Wang Y. Z. , Wang Z. M. , Wei D. M. , Wei J. J. , Wei Y. F. , Wu D. , Wu J. , Wu S. S. , Wu X. , Xia Z. Q. , Xu H. T. , Xu J. , Xu Z. H. , Xu Z. L. , Xu E. H. , Xu Z. Z. , Xue G. F. , Yang H. B. , Yang P. , Yang Y. Q. , Yao H. J. , Yu Y. H. , Yuan G. W. , Yuan Q. , Yue C. , Zang J. J. , Zhang S. X. , Zhang W. Z. , Zhang Yan , Zhang Yi , Zhang Y. J. , Zhang Y. L. , Zhang Y. P. , Zhang Y. Q. , Zhang Z. , Zhang Z. Y. , Zhao C. , Zhao H. Y. , Zhao X. F. , Zhou C. Y. , Zhu Y. ,   DAMPE Collaboration
Published: January 2025

Precise direct cosmic-ray (CR) measurements provide an important probe to study the energetic particle sources in our Galaxy, and the interstellar environment through which these particles propagate. Uncertainties on hadronic models, ion-nucleon cross sections in particular, are currently the limiting factor toward obtaining more accurate CR ion flux measurements with calorimetric space-based experiments. We present an energy-dependent measurement of the inelastic cross section of protons and helium-4 nuclei (alpha particles) on a Bi4Ge3O12 target, using 88 months of data collected by the DAMPE space mission. The kinetic energy range per nucleon of the measurement points ranges from 18 GeV to 9 TeV for protons, and from 5  GeV/n to 3  TeV/n for helium-4 nuclei. Our results lead to a significant improvement of the CR flux normalization. In the case of helium-4, these results correspond to the first cross section measurements on a heavy target material at energies above 10  GeV/n.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Finite size analysis for interacting bosons at the one-two dimensional crossover
Authors: Pizzino Lorenzo , Yao Hepeng , Giamarchi Thierry
Published: January 2025

In this work, we extend the analysis of interacting bosons at 2D-1D dimensional crossover for finite size and temperature by using the field theory approach (bosonization) and quantum Monte Carlo simulations. Stemming from the fact that finite size low-dimensional systems are allowed only to have quasiordered phase, we consider the self-consistent harmonic approximation to compute the fraction of quasicondensate and its scaling with the system size. It allows us to understand the important role played by finite size and temperature across the dimensional crossover for deciding the condensate nature. Furthermore, we consider a mean-field approximation to compute the finite size effect on the crossover temperature for both weak and strong interactions. All the physical quantities we discuss here provide essential information for quantum gas at dimensional crossover and are directly detectable in cold atom experiments.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Picocavity modal analysis: A multiple-scattering approach for picoscopic mode coupling
Authors: Asgarnezhad-Zorgabad Saeid , Baumberg Jeremy J. , Hess Ortwin
Published: January 2025

Picocavities serve as exceptional platforms for extreme atomic-scale field localization, enabling opportunities for light-matter interactions at subnanometer scales. Here we introduce a scattering-theory-based mode analysis approach to model the interaction between picocavity and nanocavity modes, providing insights into picoscopic field-field dynamics. By employing coupled-mode theory, we specifically investigate the coupling between multiple nanocavity quasinormal modes (QNMs) and a single picocavity QNM, highlighting the development of spectral correlations through mode hybridization. Our findings reveal that the induced hybridization can be controlled by adjusting the picocavity geometry and the frequency spacing of the excited modes. This strong field-field coupling at picoscopic scales leads to spectral mixing, which alters the optical density of states, facilitates the identification of Fano resonances, and produces spectrally stable picocavity modes with modified mode-mixing characteristics. Furthermore, the coupled-mode framework enables the modeling of quantum dynamics resembling the Jaynes-Cummings model, describing the interaction between a hybridized two-level system and a quantized picocavity field. These insights into picoscopic light-matter interactions pave the way for advancements in subnanometer photonic quantum dynamics.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
A meta-analysis of ESG factors in the real estate investment trusts sector: exploring their impacts on REITs performance
Authors: Zheng Zheng , Lee Chyi Lin
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This study aims to analyse the inconsistencies found in previous research regarding the impact of environmental, social and governance (ESG) factors on real estate investment trusts’ (REITs) performance. By identifying the individual contributions of each ESG pillar, the research seeks to clarify ESG’s role in determining REIT outcomes.

Design/methodology/approach

The study conducts a meta-analysis of 26 selected studies from a pool of over 300 academic papers that investigate the relationship between ESG factors and REIT performance. The meta-analysis aggregates regression findings from these studies, and logistic regression models are used to examine the distinct effects of each ESG factor on REIT performance.

Findings

The results indicate that the environmental and social pillars significantly influence the relationship between ESG and REITs performance. The social factor consistently shows a positive and significant effect, while the environmental factor is significant but with an unclear direction of influence. The governance factor does not show a significant impact, suggesting that under the current REITs regulatory framework, governance is less influential. The results address the distinct contribution of ESG factors in shaping REIT outcomes across different market contexts and time periods. Moreover, the positive impact of the social pillar aligns with Freeman’s (1984) social impact hypothesis, which suggests that business practices associated with stakeholders’ interests positively affect financial performance.

Originality/value

This study enhances the understanding of ESG factors’ impact on REITs by being the first to systematically analyse the underlying reasons for the varied outcomes in previous research. It is also the first attempt to employ meta-analysis in exploring the theoretical foundations of ESG effects within the real estate and construction sectors. The findings assist investors in making more informed decisions based on ESG components and offer guidance for policymakers in crafting regulations that better reflect the influence of ESG factors.
Cross-partner effects in coalition loyalty programs: the interaction of point redemptions with program sales
Authors: Li Chen , Swaminathan Srinivasan , Kim Junhee
Published: January 2025

Purpose

Many firms engage customers using coalition loyalty programs. One unique characteristic of these programs is that one partner’s performance can affect the performance of other partners (cross-partner effect). While previous research discusses cross-partner effects from the program sales perspective, the role of point redemptions in cross-partner effects is unknown to marketers. This study aims to investigate this role and discusses its variations among stores of the same chain and those of different chains.

Design/methodology/approach

Using the data of a popular coalition loyalty program, this paper estimates an empirical model that accounts for the dynamics of program sales and point redemptions and the heterogeneity among different partners in the program.

Findings

Cross-partner effects are different between point redemption and program sales. In particular, program sales (point redemptions) in other stores of different chains positively (negatively) affect the focal store’s point redemptions. However, point redemptions in other stores of the same chain as the focal store positively affect the focal store’s program sales.

Research limitations/implications

Coalition loyalty programs are becoming popular around the globe. This research investigates the cross-partner effects of coalition loyalty programs. This is of immense value to practitioners and researchers alike.

Practical implications

This research gives marketing managers insights into the workings of coalition loyalty programs.

Originality/value

This research contributes to loyalty program literature in three ways. First, it complements the literature by investigating the role of point redemption in cross-partner effects. Second, it discusses cross-partner effects in the competing stores from the same chain of the focal store and those from different chains. Third, it explores the dynamic effects of program sales and point redemptions at other stores on program sales at the focal store.
Signal optimization: using signals to mitigate information overload in crowdfunding campaigns
Authors: Thapa Nischal , Shah Puspa , Adhikari Yogendra
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This study explores how information volume affects crowdfunding success and identifies the signals – operational transparency, past crowdfunding experience, perceived project authenticity and perceived product quality – that moderate this relationship. The goal is to provide insights into managing information overload and enhancing the probability of funding success in various information volume contexts.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected from 2,681 Kickstarter campaigns and analyzed using fixed effects logit regression models.

Findings

The study reveals a curved relationship between information volume and funding success, moderated by factors such as operational transparency, crowdfunding experience, project authenticity and product quality.

Practical implications

This study provides fund-seekers with essential insights into disseminating information effectively.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the literature by elucidating the complex dynamics among information volume, signaling types and crowdfunding success, offering a nuanced understanding of how fund-seekers can optimize their campaigns for better outcomes.
Effect of columns’ cross-section shape on resisting blast loads in reinforced concrete buildings: a numerical study
Authors: Abd-El-Nabi Eslam , El-Helloty Arafa , Summra Aymen , Mahmoud Mahmoud Hassan
Published: January 2025

Purpose

In this study, the effect of the column’s cross-section shape as a design parameter on resisting blast loads in reinforced concrete (RC) buildings was numerically investigated. To try to give a guideline to the design engineer about the best columns’ cross-section shape when designing an RC building that is more vulnerable to blast loads.

Design/methodology/approach

The finite element (FE) analysis was conducted for three RC buildings with different cross-section shapes of columns but with the same area and axial load capacity. The FE analysis was carried out using the Coupled Eulerian-Lagrangian (CEL) in Abaqus/CAE software. The effect of the blast loads resulting from the explosion of 50, 150, and 500 kg TNT bombs with a standoff distance of 3 m on all buildings was investigated.

Findings

The Findings showed that large TNT charges of more than 500 kg with a standoff distance of less than 3 m cause catastrophic damage to RC columns of any cross-section-shaped. Also, RC columns with circular cross-section shapes have the best resistance to blast loads, while RC columns with rectangular sections have the worst resistance.

Originality/value

The CEL technique was used to investigate the effect of columns’ cross-section shape on resisting blast loads on full-scale RC buildings. Also, this research gives a guideline to the design engineer about the best columns’ cross-section shape when designing an RC building that is more vulnerable to blast loads.
Can long-term orientation mitigate the impact of users’ ethical concerns on migration behavior? A trust loss perspective
Authors: Mou Yupeng , Zhang Shishu , Qi Xiaoyan , Ding Zhihua , Huang Jing
Published: January 2025

Purpose

Addressing users’ migration is a prerequisite for the sustainable development of the sharing economy. Ethical concerns that may lead to users’ migration are frequent in sharing economy platforms. Therefore, this study explores whether the long-term governance of sharing economy platforms can effectively mitigate users’ migration caused by ethical concerns.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a questionnaire survey of 549 participants, this study investigated the mechanism of users’ migration and governance strategies in the platform ecosystem based on trust theory.

Findings

The results indicate that users’ ethical concerns regarding the platform ecosystem significantly and positively influence their migration. Furthermore, users’ continued trust played a significant mediating role in the relationship between ethical concerns and users’ migration. The results also showed that future orientation and resilience significantly moderated the impact of users’ ethical concerns on their continued trust, thereby weakening this effect.

Practical implications

The author clarified the relationship between ethical concerns and users’ migration, identified the underlying mechanisms and provided guidance on how to mitigate migration behavior. However, users’ migration is influenced by various factors beyond ethical concerns. In addition to some factors that lead to migration, other factors make users stay on the platform. Future research should integrate multiple factors.

Originality/value

This study reveals the mechanism of action between users’ migration and ethical concerns in the platform ecosystem and sheds light on the output of long-term orientation practices of the platform.
Cultivating a paradoxical mindset: enhancing transformative learning through paradoxical leadership
Authors: Khan Muhammad Tasnim , Ullah Sami , Sami Abdul , Kukreti Mohit , Shaukat Muhammad Rehan
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This study investigates the influence of paradoxical leadership on employee transformative learning in higher education institutions (HEIs). Based on paradox theory, this research examines how a paradoxical mindset mediates this relationship and explores the moderating role of employees’ moral values in developing a paradoxical mindset and fostering transformative learning.

Design/methodology/approach

The research adopted a quantitative approach. In three phases, data were collected from 411 randomly selected faculty members of HEIs in Pakistan to assess their perceptions of paradoxical leadership, followers’ paradoxical mindset, moral values and transformative learning outcomes. Structural equation modeling was employed for analysis in AMOS26.

Findings

The findings reveal paradoxical leadership’s positive and significant impact on transformative learning, mediated by developing a paradoxical mindset. Moral values positively moderate the relationship between paradoxical leadership and developing a paradoxical mindset. However, the moderating effect of moral values on the link between a paradoxical mindset and transformative learning was insignificant.

Practical implications

The study suggests that organizations, particularly HEIs, should cultivate paradoxical leadership to navigate inherent tensions and contradictions, fostering an environment conducive to transformative learning. Developing a paradoxical mindset among employees is crucial for enhancing adaptability and learning, with moral values playing a pivotal role in amplifying the effectiveness of paradoxical leadership.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the literature by providing empirical evidence on the mechanism through which paradoxical leadership influences transformative learning. It extends paradox theory to the context of transformative learning, highlighting the importance of cognitive and ethical dimensions in leadership and learning processes within HEIs.
Investigating direct and indirect relationships between writing self‐efficacy, integrative processing and integrated understanding in a multiple‐document context
Authors: Bråten Ivar , Haverkamp Ymkje E. , Latini Natalia , Strømsø Helge I.
Published: January 2025

Background

A common approach to assessing students' integrated understanding of multiple documents is to analyse their post‐reading written reports. This study investigated to what extent writing self‐efficacy directly and indirectly (via integrative processing) contributed to multiple‐document comprehension as assessed with an integrative writing task.

Methods

A sample of Norwegian university students (n = 67) read four documents on a controversial socio‐scientific issue and afterwards wrote reports on the issue without access to the documents. Multiple‐document comprehension was assessed in terms of how well the reports reflected an elaborated and integrated understanding of the four documents' content. A mediation analysis was conducted with students' working memory as a covariate, their confidence in their ability to write a text that integrated content from multiple source documents as a predictor, self‐reports of their integrative processing during reading as a mediator and multiple‐document comprehension as an outcome variable.

Results

There was an indirect relationship between multiple‐document‐based writing self‐efficacy and multiple‐document comprehension via integrative processing. However, no direct relationship between writing self‐efficacy and multiple‐document comprehension was found. The covariate of working memory uniquely adjusted students' multiple‐document comprehension.

Conclusions

In the context of written assessment of multiple‐document comprehension, multiple‐document‐based writing self‐efficacy and multiple‐document comprehension were indirectly related via integrative processing during reading. The results indicate that not only reading‐related but also writing‐related individual differences may come into play when multiple‐document comprehension is assessed with an integrative writing task.
An Unpublished Inscription From the ʾAwām Sanctuary of ʾAlmaqah: New Evidence for a Royal mqtwy and Sabaean Campaigns in the ‘Land of the Abyssinians’
Authors: Potts Justine
Published: January 2025

This article presents an unpublished Sabaic inscription from the ʾAwām sanctuary of ʾAlmaqah, near Maʾrib. The inscription sheds new light on the mid‐third century ad adventures of a mqtwy (‘officer’) of the Sabaean kings already known from epigraphic evidence: Whbʾwm Yʾḏf. It attests to him waging previously unknown campaigns in ‘the land of the Abyssinians’ (ʾrḍ Ḥbs2t) alongside his own mqtwy, who subsequently dedicated the inscription, with a bronze statue, in thanksgiving to the deity. This is the only military, rather than diplomatic, Sabaean mission abroad to the land (ʾrḍ) of the Abyssinians so far attested. Wider evidence invites us to reconstruct Whbʾwm's extraordinary career and identify an overlooked religious dimension to the mqtwy's function. The inscription shows that divine thanksgiving from mqtwy for monarch took identical form lower down the social hierarchy, adumbrating not only the reciprocity and ritual that underpinned Sabaean elite society, but also the impact of Abyssinian hostilities at a pivotal moment in the twilight of Sabaean history.
Temporal snapshot of parasitoid wasp communities on three flowering plant species and implications for the rosy apple aphid regulation (Dysaphis plantaginea) in apple orchards
Authors: Laffon Ludivine , Bischoff Armin , Lescourret Françoise , Mujica‐Fuentes Dominga , Olivares Jérôme , Rasmussen Bruno , Rasplus Jean‐Yves , Franck Pierre
Published: January 2025

Parasitoid wasps contribute to biological control services. Parasitoid adults are highly dependent on sugar‐rich resources. Adding flowering plants providing nectar in crop fields promotes parasitoid wasps, but not always pest parasitism because addition of flowering plants may attract parasitoid species that are not directly involved in the control of crop pests.

In a factorial experiment conducted for one year in pesticide‐free orchards, we analysed the effects of three common plant species (Capsella bursa‐pastoris Medik., Veronica persica Poir. and Vicia sativa L.) in association with apple trees on parasitoid wasp recruitment and parasitism of one major apple pest, Dysaphis plantaginea (Passerini). We combined morphological and molecular identifications to characterize the parasitoid communities associated with each plant species.

Parasitoid communities were different between plant species. Plant effects on the abundance of the parasitoid wasps did not depend on the amount of floral resources provided by the tested plants. Over the whole season, the parasitoid wasp species Ephedrus persicae (Froggatt) and Aphidius matricariae (Haliday) involved in D. plantaginea parasitism accounted for 6% of the total parasitoid abundance and were mainly associated with V. persica plots. We observed a higher parasitism rate in apple trees associated with V. persica and a lower number of aphid colonies in apple trees associated with V. sativa.

However, plant treatments had no effect on the abundance of D. plantaginea or on generalist predators and ant occurrences in aphid colonies. As a result, the three plants tested had a limited impact on the rosy apple aphid (RAA) regulation overall.
Persistence of Ancestral KhoeSan Mitochondrial Patterns in Contemporary South African Populations
Authors: D'Amato Maria Eugenia , Ristow Peter , Livesey Michelle , Heynes Kirsty , Huber Nicole , Bravi Claudio , Hansen Anders J. , Parson Walther
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Southern Africa has been inhabited by hunter‐gatherers for at least 20,000 years and has received diverse immigration flows in the last 2000 years. The original inhabitants have interacted with the pastoralist migrants from Eastern Africa (∼2000 ybp), followed by the southern Bantu migration arriving some 1000 ybp, and more recently with the European and Asian settlers after the 17th century. Many of the original Khoekhoe and San inhabitants have either become extinct or have disappeared through admixture in South Africa (SA), in a sex‐biased manner involving KhoeSan women.

Methods

In this study, we generated mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) control region (CR) sequences for 247 South African individuals. The sampling effort was concentrated in regions and populations with historical links to the KhoeSan population groups: admixed (Coloured, Griqua), Nama (Khoekhoe) and Bantu in three provinces. Here we evaluate the composition and extent of connectivity between population groups and regions, and to assess the distribution of haplotypes for the practical application of mtDNA CR data in forensic identifications.

Results

The analysis of the newly generated sequences revealed 142 distinct haplotypes, of which 122 were unique. Haplogroup L0 was predominant (overall 71.7%). A high‐frequency L0d2a haplotype dominated the pool of the admixed groups with 10%–12.5% incidence overall or per region. Comparative analysis with 545 extant mtDNA CR sequences from South African KhoeSan and admixed descendants revealed extensive population structure and high within‐group haplotype sharing.

Conclusion

The observed population and regional variations, combined with the prevalence of high‐frequency haplotypes, align with patterns of matrilocality. These findings highlight the limitations of using mtDNA control region analysis for forensic applications in South Africa.
The Efficacy and Safety of Non‐Biologic and Biologic Treatments in Palmoplantar Pustular Psoriasis and Palmoplantar Pustulosis: A Systematic Review and Network Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Alshareef Khalid M. , Abualola Amal H. , Shaheen Esraa A. , Aljuaid Abdulaziz A. , Alshibi Faisl , Kalantan Renad , Bashrahil Bader , Alghowairi Dhaifallah H. , Alamri Awadh M.
Published: January 2025

Palmoplantar pustular psoriasis (PPPP), or palmoplantar pustulosis (PPP), is a type of psoriasis that affects the skin on the palms and soles. It is characterised by dermatosis and small sterile pustules and is considered a significant burden on patients' quality of life, as there is currently no gold standard treatment or cure. This network meta‐analysis (NMA) compares the efficacy and safety of biologic and non‐biologic medications for PPPP and PPP. Medline, Embase and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) were searched. The efficacy and safety of all medications were assessed through a frequentist NMA using a random‐effects model. Treatments were ranked using the net rank function, yielding P scores. Fourteen RCTs with 1056 participants were included. Guselkumab 100 mg was the most effective for improving PPPGA scores (p = 0.72, RR = 1.31, CI: 0.31–5.57). Guselkumab 100 mg was ranked the highest for achieving PPPASI‐75 (RR = 5.4, CI: 1.26–23.2, p = 0.023). Oral cyclosporine 1 mg/kg/day was ranked the highest for PPPASI‐50 (RR = 2.10, CI: 0.65–6.82). Etretinate 1 mg/kg/day had the highest rate of adverse events (RR = 1.78, CI: 0.92–3.44). Secukinumab 300 mg was associated with the highest rate of serious adverse events (RR = 1.58, CI: 0.21–12.02). Based on the P‐scores from our NMA, guselkumab 100 mg was the most effective for PPPGA improvement, guselkumab 100 mg for PPPASI‐75, oral cyclosporine 1 mg/kg/day for PPPASI‐50, etretinate 1 mg/kg/day had the most adverse events, and secukinumab 300 mg was associated with the highest rate of serious adverse events.

Trial Registration

PROSPERO registration number: CRD42023460842
SARS‐CoV‐2 Activated Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells (PBMCs) Do Not Provoke Adverse Effects in Trophoblast Spheroids
Authors: Ayuk Humblenoble Stembridge , Arnold Susanne , Pierzchalski Arkadiusz , Bauer Mario , Stojanovska Violeta , Zenclussen Ana Claudia
Published: January 2025

Problem

Although it is still uncertain whether Severe Acute Respiratory Coronavirus (SARS‐CoV‐2) placental infection and vertical transmission occur, inflammation during early pregnancy can have devastating consequences for gestation itself and the growing fetus. If and how SARS‐CoV‐2‐specific immune cells negatively affect placenta functionality is still unknown.

Method of study

We stimulated peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from women of reproductive age with SARS‐CoV‐2 peptides and cocultured them with trophoblast spheroids (HTR‐8/SVneo and JEG‐3) to dissect if SARS‐CoV‐2‐activated immune cells can interfere with trophoblast functionality. The activation and cytokine profile of the PBMCs were determined using multicolor flow cytometry. The functionality of trophoblast spheroids was assessed using microscopy, enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and RT‐qPCR.

Results

SARS‐CoV‐2 S and M peptides significantly activated PBMCs (monocytes, NK cells, and T cells with memory subsets) and induced the upregulation of proinflammatory cytokines, such as IFNγ. The activated PBMCs did not impact the viability, growth rate, and invasion capabilities of trophoblast spheroids. Furthermore, the hormonal production of hCG by JEG‐3 spheroids was not compromised upon coculture with the activated PBMCs. mRNA transcript levels of genes involved in trophoblast spheroid functional pathways were also not dysregulated after coculture.

Conclusions

Together, the findings of our in vitro coculture model, although not fully representative of in vivo conditions, strongly support the claim that the interaction of SARS‐CoV‐2‐activated peripheral blood immune cells with trophoblast cells at the fetal–maternal interface does not negatively affect trophoblast functionality. This goes in hand with the recommendation of vaccinating pregnant women in their first trimester.
Epidemiology of watersport related traumatic spinal cord injuries in New Zealand (2007–2021)
Authors: Mitchell Joshua , Madsen Benjamin , Mitchell John , Patel Alpesh , Schouten Rowan
Published: January 2025

Background

To investigate the incidence, demographic characteristics, etiologies, surgical interventions, hospital stays, and neurologic outcomes associated with watersport‐related traumatic spinal cord injuries (TSCI) in New Zealand.

Methods

Retrospective study collected data from New Zealand's two spinal rehabilitation units, the Auckland Spinal Rehabilitation Unit (ASRU) and the Burwood Spinal Unit (BSU). It included adults aged over 16 years, between January 2007 and December 2021 with new TSCI secondary to traumatic watersport activities. Variables assessed include type of water‐related activity, length of hospital stay, surgical intervention and neurologic outcomes, categorized by the American Spinal Injury Association (ASIA) impairment scale.

Results

Data from 80 patients were analysed. The mean annual incidence of water‐related TSCI was 1.141 per 1,000,000 per year, predominantly affecting males (68 males vs. 12 females) with a mean age of 31.1 years. Maori had the highest incidence rate (2.02 per 1,000,000). Diving was the leading cause of TSCI (57 cases), particularly from pool and wharf accidents. Most injuries occurred between December and March. Surgical intervention was performed in 89% of cases. The average hospital stay was 93.65 days, with the cervical region being the most commonly affected (85.1%).

Conclusions

Watersport‐related TSCI in New Zealand predominantly affects the young, Maori and males, with cervical spine injuries, particularly from diving accidents being most common. Seasonal trends suggest a need for targeted prevention during warmer months. These findings provide insights for public health initiatives, clinical management and the development of prevention strategies.
Morphological variations of the ovarian follicles and oviduct of commercial Lohmann Brown and indigenous Potchefstroom Koekoek breeds
Authors: Hlokoe Victoria Rankotsane , Tyasi Thobela Louis , Mbazima Vusi Gordon
Published: January 2025

Egg laying begins with the orderly development of follicles in the chicken ovaries and transportation through the oviduct with deposition of nutrients until the eggs are produced. However, the ovarian follicles and oviduct morphology of Lohmann Brown and Potchefstroom Koekoek laying hens have not yet been studied. The study aimed to determine the morphological variations of the ovarian follicles and oviduct of Lohmann Brown and Potchefstroom Koekoek laying hens aged 40 weeks. The Student's t‐test results revealed that breed had a significant effect (p < .05) on the weight of the small white follicles (SWF), large white follicles (LWF) and small yellow follicles (SYF), where Lohmann Brown performed higher than Potchefstroom Koekoek. The outcomes also displayed that breed had a significant effect (p < .05) on the number of LWF and SYF. The results further displayed that breed had a significant effect (p < .05) on the weight of F2, F3, F4 and F5. The outcomes showed that breed had a significant effect (p < .05) on the weights of the infundibulum, magnum and isthmus, where Lohmann Brown displayed a higher performance than Potchefstroom Koekoek. Furthermore, the findings revealed that breed had a significant effect (p < .05) on the lengths of the magnum, isthmus and shell gland, where Lohmann Brown displayed a better performance than Potchefstroom Koekoek. The findings also showed that the discriminant variables in the study are the isthmus length, isthmus weight and magnum length. In conclusion, there are morphological variations in the weights and numbers of the ovarian follicles, and the weights and lengths of the oviduct segments of Lohmann Brown and Potchefstroom Koekoek laying hens.
Impact of LITAF on Mitophagy and Neuronal Damage in Epilepsy via MCL‐1 Ubiquitination
Authors: Min Fuli , Dong Zhaofei , Zhong Shuisheng , Li Ze , Wu Hong , Zhang Sai , Zhang Linming , Zeng Tao
Published: January 2025

Objective

This study aims to investigate how the E3 ubiquitin ligase LITAF influences mitochondrial autophagy by modulating MCL‐1 ubiquitination, and its role in the development of epilepsy.

Methods

Employing single‐cell RNA sequencing (scRNA‐seq) to analyze brain tissue from epilepsy patients, along with high‐throughput transcriptomics, we identified changes in gene expression. This was complemented by in vivo and in vitro experiments, including protein–protein interaction (PPI) network analysis, western blotting, and behavioral assessments in mouse models.

Results

Neuronal cells in epilepsy patients exhibited significant gene expression alterations, with increased activity in apoptosis‐related pathways and decreased activity in neurotransmitter‐related pathways. LITAF was identified as a key upregulated factor, inhibiting mitochondrial autophagy by promoting MCL‐1 ubiquitination, leading to increased neuronal damage. Knockdown experiments in mouse models further confirmed that LITAF facilitates MCL‐1 ubiquitination, aggravating neuronal injury.

Conclusion

Our findings demonstrate that LITAF regulates MCL‐1 ubiquitination, significantly impacting mitochondrial autophagy and contributing to neuronal damage in epilepsy. Targeting LITAF and its downstream mechanisms may offer a promising therapeutic strategy for managing epilepsy.
Investigation of Anti‐Apoptotic Effects and Mechanisms of Astragaloside IV in a Rat Model of Cerebral Ischemia–Reperfusion Injury
Authors: Yu Li , Jin Weifeng , Deng Defang , Wang Yiru , Chen Qianqian , Zhang Yangyang , Wan Haitong , Chen Yunxiang , Chen Ying , He Yu , Zhang Lijiang
Published: January 2025

Background

Ischemic stroke is a prevalent and life‐threatening cerebrovascular disease that is challenging to treat and associated with a poor prognosis. Astragaloside IV (AS‐IV), a primary bioactive component of Astragali radix, has demonstrated neuroprotective benefits in previous studies. This study aimed to explore the mechanisms through which AS‐IV may treat cerebral ischemia–reperfusion injury (CIRI).

Methods

Network pharmacology was employed to identify key targets and pathways of AS‐IV in CIRI therapy, combined with molecular docking to predict binding affinity. Male Sprague–Dawley rats were randomly assigned to sham, MCAO/R, AS‐IV, SP600125 (JNK inhibitor), AS‐IV + SP600125, and 3‐n‐Butylphthalide (NBP) groups. Neurobehavioral deficits were assessed, and brain tissue damage was visualized through 2,3,5‐triphenyltetrazolium chloride, H&E, and TUNEL staining. Immunohistochemistry was employed to detect CytC‐ and caspase‐3‐positive cells, while Western blotting, qPCR, and ELISAs were used to analyze apoptosis‐related markers.

Results

A total of 48 key targets of AS‐IV predicted to be involved in the treatment of CIRI were identified, enriched in 136 pathways. AS‐IV was effectively bound to the top five targets from 48 targets, and those associated with the c‐Jun N‐terminal kinase (JNK)/Bid pathway, with binding energy values below −5.0 kJ·mol−1. JNK inhibition reduced infarcted brain areas, improved neurological function, reduced pathological brain tissue damage, and inhibited apoptosis, with AS‐IV achieving similar neuroprotective effects. Both AS‐IV and SP600125 reduced p‐JNK, Bid, CytC, Apaf‐1, caspase‐3, and cleaved caspase‐3 levels in rats while decreasing CytC, caspase‐3, and caspase‐9 levels in serum.

Conclusion

AS‐IV may suppress apoptosis partly through the modulation of JNK/Bid signaling, exerting neuroprotective effects. These findings support the potential development of AS‐IV‐based therapies for stroke treatment.