bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
CHIP protects lysosomes from CLN4 mutant-induced membrane damages
Authors: Lee Juhyung , Zou Jizhong , Mazli Wan Nur Atiqah Binti , Chin Natalie , Jarnik Michal , Saidi Layla , Xu Yue , Replogle John , Ward Michael , Bonifacino Juan , Zheng Wei , Hao Ling , Ye Yihong
Published: February 2025

Understanding how cells mitigate lysosomal damage is critical for unraveling pathogenic mechanisms of lysosome-related diseases. Here we use organelle-specific proteomics in iPSC-derived neurons (i3Neuron) and anin vitrolysosome-damaging assay to demonstrate that lysosome damage, caused by the aggregation of Ceroid Lipofuscinosis Neuronal 4 (CLN4)-linked DNAJC5 mutants on lysosomal membranes, serves as a critical pathogenic linchpin in CLN4-associated neurodegeneration. Intriguingly, in non-neuronal cells, a ubiquitin-dependent microautophagy mechanism downregulates CLN4 aggregates to counteract CLN4-associated lysotoxicity. Genome-wide CRISPR screens identify the ubiquitin ligase CHIP as a central microautophagy regulator that confers ubiquitin-dependent lysosome protection. Importantly, CHIP’s lysosome protection function is transferrable, as ectopic CHIP improves lysosomal function in CLN4 i3Neurons, and effectively alleviates lipofuscin accumulation and neurodegeneration in aDrosophilaCLN4 disease model. Our study establishes CHIP-mediated microautophagy as a key organelle damage guardian that preserves lysosome integrity, offering new insights into therapeutic development for CLN4 and other lysosome-related neurodegenerative diseases.
Succinate Dehydrogenase loss causes cascading metabolic effects that impair pyrimidine biosynthesis
Authors: Hart Madeleine L. , Davidsen Kristian , Danquah Serwah , Zheng Eric , Sokolov David , Sullivan Lucas B.
Published: February 2025

Impaired availability of the amino acid aspartate can be a metabolic constraint of cell proliferation in diverse biological contexts. However, the kinetics of aspartate depletion, and its ramifications on downstream metabolism and cell proliferation, remain poorly understood. Here, we deploy the aspartate biosensor jAspSnFR3 with live cell imaging to resolve temporal relationships between aspartate and cell proliferation from genetic, pharmacological, and nutritional manipulations. In cells with impaired aspartate acquisition from mitochondrial complex I inhibition or constrained uptake in aspartate auxotrophs, we find that the proliferation defects lag changes in aspartate levels and only manifest once aspartate levels fall below a critical threshold, supporting the functional link between aspartate levels and cell proliferation in these contexts. In another context of aspartate synthesis inhibition, impairing succinate dehydrogenase (SDH), we find a more complex metabolic interaction, with initial aspartate depletion followed by a rebound of aspartate levels over time. We find that this aspartate rebound effect results from SDH inhibition disproportionately impairing pyrimidine synthesis by inhibiting aspartate transcarbamoylase (ATCase) through the dual effect of diminishing aspartate substrate availability while accumulating succinate, which functions as a competitive inhibitor of aspartate utilization. Finally, we uncover that the nucleotide imbalance from SDH inhibition causes replication stress and introduces a vulnerability to ATR kinase inhibition. Altogether, these findings identify a mechanistic role for succinate in modulating nucleotide synthesis and demonstrate how cascading metabolic interactions can unfold to impact cell function.
Search for Reactor-Produced Millicharged Particles with Skipper-CCDs at the CONNIE and Atucha-II Experiments
Authors: Aguilar-Arevalo Alexis A. , D’Olivo Juan Carlos , Sarkis Youssef , Avalos Nicolas , Bertou Xavier , Bellino Pablo , Bonifazi Carla , Botti Ana , Cancelo Gustavo , Estrada Juan , Ford Richard , Kuk Kevin , Lathrop Andrew , Tiffenberg Javier , Cababié Mariano , Cervantes-Vergara Brenda A. , Chavez Claudio , Chierchie Fernando , Delgado David , Depaoli Eliana , dos Anjos João , Lima Herman P. , Moroni Guillermo Fernandez , Neto Aldo R. Fernandes , Kilminster Ben , Lemos Patrick , Maslova Katherine , Nasteva Irina , Oliveira Ana Carolina , Ventura Pedro , Makler Martin , Magnoni Agustina , Marinho Franciole , Molina Jorge , Stalder Diego , Perez Santiago , Rodrigues Dario , Paulucci Laura , Sidelnik Ivan , Haro Miguel Sofo ,   CONNIE and Atucha-II Collaborations
Published: February 2025

Millicharged particles, proposed by various extensions of the standard model, can be created in pairs by high-energy photons within nuclear reactors and can interact electromagnetically with electrons in matter. Recently, the existence of a plasmon peak in the interaction cross section with silicon in the eV range was highlighted as a promising approach to enhance low-energy sensitivities. The CONNIE and Atucha-II reactor neutrino experiments utilize Skipper-CCD sensors, which enable the detection of interactions in the eV range. We present world-leading limits on the charge of millicharged particles within a mass range spanning 6 orders of magnitude, derived through a comprehensive analysis and the combination of data from both experiments.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Fano physics behind the N-resonance in graphene
Authors: Kuzian R. O. , Efremov D. V. , Krasovskii E. E.
Published: February 2025

Bound states and scattering resonances in the unoccupied continuum of a two-dimensional crystal, as predicted in [], are considered within an exactly solvable model. A close connection of the observed resonances with those arising in the Fano theory is revealed. The resonance occurs when the lateral scattering couples the layer-perpendicular incident electron wave to a strictly bound state. The coupling strength determines the location of the pole in the scattering amplitude in the complex energy plane, which is analytically shown to lead to a characteristic Fano lineshape of the energy dependence of the electron transmissivity through the crystal. The implications for the temporal characteristics of the resonance scattering are discussed. The analytical results are illustrated by calculations for a graphene monolayer.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
The impact of brand perception of “standards + certification” regional quality brands on consumer loyalty – the case of “Zhejiang manufacturing”
Authors: Kong Xinyi , Zhang Yueyi , Lu Chenyuan , Hu Jing
Published: February 2025

Purpose

Since the “Standards + Certification” regional quality brand initiative has become a key component of China’s efforts to promote a quality-driven economy, this paper aims to examine the effect of perception, trust and satisfaction toward the regional quality brand on consumer loyalty.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected from 401 consumers who have bought “Zhejiang Manufacturing” regional quality brand products. The structural equation modeling (SEM) technique was applied to assess the relationship of the research model.

Findings

The results show that brand perception, trust and satisfaction toward regional quality brands all significantly positively impact both consumer behavioral and attitudinal loyalty. Further, the results confirmed that brand trust and satisfaction fully mediate the relationship between brand perception and behavioral loyalty and partially mediate the relationship between brand perception and attitudinal loyalty.

Originality/value

This study presents a conceptual model on the impact of perception toward regional quality brands on consumer loyalty in a field where little research has been done. It offers a consumer-focused analysis that advances the theoretical and empirical knowledge of regional quality brands.
WITHOUT by Ashaya: an eco-conscious start-up turning trash into treasure
Authors: Anand Leenu , Shroff Arvind
Published: February 2025

Learning outcomes

The case study aims to achieve the following learning objectives post discussion by the students: evaluate Social Entrepreneurship Quotient of Anish Malpani, founder of WITHOUT; understand Sustainable Development Goals to which the start-up aims to contribute; apply the framework of SWOT analysis to the social start-up; and analyze triple bottom line and triple top line concepts to identify approach of WITHOUT.

Case overview/synopsis

Malpani’s eco-conscious start-up named “Ashaya Recyclers Pvt. Ltd.” is the first of its kind in the world, selling sunglasses made from recycled postconsumer metalized multi-layered plastic packaging (MLP) under the brand name WITHOUT. MLP generally ends up in landfills. It is a low-value, high-volume composite waste that is considered economically and technically “impossible” to recycle. The founder wanted to do something good out of the recycled stuff instead making money. Will Ashaya’s early breakthrough and now patented technology be able to bring significant change in the waste management system in India?

Complexity academic level

This case study is suitable for undergraduate BBA and postgraduate MBA courses.

Supplementary materials

Teaching notes are available for educators only.

Subject code

CSS 4: Environmental Management.
Tourists’ visit intention toward “libraries + cultural tourism”: a stimulus-organism-response perspective
Authors: Xu Xiaojuan , Wu Manli , Zhao Zerui , Pan Li
Published: February 2025

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the factors that affect the tourists’ intention to visit “Libraries + cultural tourism (LCT)” and enhance the quality of LCT to attract tourists.

Design/methodology/approach

An online survey was conducted with 249 LCT tourists in China. By integrating LCT characteristics into the stimulus-organism-response framework, a research model was developed to examine the factors that predict tourists’ intention to visit LCT. The research model was tested using AMOS 24.0.

Findings

The results show that social function significantly influences tourists’ flow experience, which in turn affects their intention to visit LCT. Entertainment function and knowledge seeking function have significant impacts on tourists’ social presence, flow experience and perceived knowledge value, which further affect their intention to visit LCT. Flow experience is the strongest predictor of visit intention than social presence and perceived knowledge value. In particular, social presence, flow experience and perceived knowledge value partially mediate the relationships between LCT functions and tourists’ visit intention.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the LCT literature by identifying key factors that drive tourists’ intention to visit LCT projects. The findings have practical implications for enhancing the popularity of LCT.
Isogeometric boundary element formulation to simulate droplets in microchannel confinement
Authors: Gumus Ozgur Can , Kabacaoglu Gokberk , Cetin Barbaros
Published: February 2025

Purpose

This study aims to present an isogeometric boundary element formulation that stably and accurately models the motion of a droplet with arbitrary viscosity in free flows and microchannel confinements.

Design/methodology/approach

Like other numerical methods, isogeometric boundary element formulation also suffers from mesh distortion; therefore, volume correction and mesh relaxation are also required for efficient and stable simulations of deformable particles in Stokes flow with high accuracy. To improve the stability and accuracy of the proposed formulation, (i) volume correction and (ii) mesh relaxation algorithms to prevent mesh distortion are implemented.

Findings

Several test cases for a droplet in free-space shear flow are demonstrated for different Ca and viscosity ratio values which determine the deformability of a droplet. The results reveal that the drift of the enclosed volume inside a droplet and the mesh distortion becomes severe at low viscosity ratios and high Ca values, i.e. in the high deformability regime. The proposed numerical method integrating the stabilization algorithm enables the simulations at low spatiotemporal resolutions, even in extreme cases. The proposed method provides more than 10× speed-up compared to high-fidelity simulations without mesh relaxation. Efficient and accurate 3D simulations of droplets are also presented for simulations in microfluidic confinement.

Practical implications

The current formulation can be applied for many different microfluidic applications, and can be extended to tackle multiphysics simulations of multiple droplets in microchannel confinement.

Originality/value

The paper presents an isogeometric boundary element formulation with volume correction and mesh relaxation to model the motion of a droplet with arbitrary viscosity in free flows and microchannel confinements.
Appraising construction artisans health insurance enrolment to achieve sustainable development goal 3 in the informal sector: issues and solutions
Authors: Ebekozien Andrew , Aigbavboa Clinton , Ahmed Mohamed Ahmed Hafez , Samsurijan Mohamad Shaharudin , Aliu John
Published: February 2025

Purpose

In developing countries, informal construction artisans are vital to economic growth. Governments encourage enrolment into micro health insurance schemes to sustain artisans’ well-being and achieve universal health coverage. The peculiarity associated with the informal construction artisans may hinder the scheme enrolment, particularly in Nigeria. It may threaten to improve achieving sustainable development goal 3 (good health and well-being). This study investigated the level of awareness and causes and suggested measures to improve micro health insurance policy enrolment for construction artisans in the informal sector and, by extension, improve the achievement of Goal 3.

Design/methodology/approach

This study adopted face-to-face interviews to collect data in Lagos and Benin City, Nigeria. The researchers engaged 40 participants and achieved saturation at the 35th participant. The researchers manually analysed the collected data and reported the findings using the thematic approach.

Findings

Results showed low enrolment of informal sector construction artisans into micro health insurance schemes and identified the contributory factors. This includes poor awareness and poor funding of micro health insurance schemes, lax expertise and understanding of the micro insurance market space, extreme poverty, poor medical services, uneducated clients/customers/consumers, etc.

Originality/value

As part of the study’s implications, it recommends that the government invest more in social health for the informal sector’s low-income earners to enhance accomplishing universal health coverage and, by extension, improve achieving Goal 3. This study may stir policymakers to call for a review of the National Health Insurance Authority Act 2022 with implementable and enforceable clauses to reduce uninsured informal sector construction artisans.
Blended learning trends and future directions: a systematic literature review and bibliometric analysis
Authors: Amarathunga Buddhini
Published: February 2025

Purpose

The current study intended to conceptually and technically examine the literature on blended learning (BL) utilising a dual-focused approach with systematic literature review and bibliometric analysis. This study intends to address eight different research problem areas.: (1) the descriptive features of the retrieved empirical studies on BL, (2) the tendencies of the annual scientific production and the thematic evolution of BL, (3) the most relevant and high-impact sources in the field of BL, (4) how sources are clustering through Bradford’s Law of Scattering, (5) the most cited articles on BL, (6) the most relevant countries for BL, (7) the authors’ productivity through Lotka’s Law of Authors’ Scientific Productivity and (8) the trending research themes for future investigations in the field of BL.

Design/methodology/approach

The current study analysed 5,809 articles extracted from the Scopus database through the systematic literature review and bibliometric analysis mapping approaches. The two primary tools used in the analysis were VOSviewer and Biblioshiny.

Findings

The results suggest that BL is a subject discipline that is growing progressively, with a remarkable 8.3% yearly growth in scientific output from 2000 to 2023 (October). Online teaching, e-learning, flipped classrooms, distance education, interactive learning environments, asynchronous learning, curriculum, computer-assisted instructions and online learning are the trending themes in the discipline of BL based on the keyword co-occurrence analysis and trend topic analysis. Moreover, motivation, self-regulated learning, flipped learning, self-efficacy, collaborative learning, simulation and social media themes are suggested future directions for further investigations on BL, according to the thematic map of keywords analysis.

Originality/value

The present study offers an extensive literature evaluation, which advances the BL conversation. The outcomes of this research are important for students, educators, legislators, regulators in the field of education and higher education and the community worldwide.
Critical drivers of changes in energy-saving behaviours in student housing in Northern Ghana
Authors: Anugwo Iruka Chijindu , Appau Miller Williams , Simpeh Fredrick , Attakora-Amaniampong Elvis
Published: February 2025

Purpose

Energy saving in student housing has become a major challenge in the growing tertiary higher learning institutions in Africa. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the drivers of changes in energy-saving behaviours in student housing in Ghana.

Design/methodology/approach

This study is quantitative based on the theory of planned behaviour. A survey of 1,702 on-campus university student housing users in Northern Ghana was conducted using a simple random sampling technique. Behavioural drivers were conceptualised into two broad themes and analysed using the Partial Least Square Structural Equation Model tool.

Findings

The findings of this study accept the general view that behavioural factors affect energy saving. However, financial, indoor environmental quality and student housing energy management techniques positively determine changes in energy-saving behaviours in student housing than behavioural factors. Knowledge-related factors did not show any contribution to behavioural intentions of energy saving.

Practical implications

An all-inclusive energy-saving mechanism, highlighting improvement in student housing conditions, can enhance energy saving. Aside from this, increasing the attention to sustainability and energy efficiency programs in student housing environments can provide positive potential for energy saving in student housing.

Originality/value

Introducing the theory of planned behaviour in similar studies confirms the large contributions of behavioural drivers to energy saving. The additional exploration of other drivers in this study showcases the potential of influencing energy-saving decisions in student housing within the sub-Saharan sub-region.
The mediating role of sports team love in the relationship between cognitive engagement and eFANgelism
Authors: Amani David
Published: February 2025

Purpose

This study aimed to examine the impact of cognitive engagement on eFANgelism through the mediating role of sports team love.

Design/methodology/approach

A conceptual model was designed to formulate hypotheses, which were then tested quantitatively through Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM). Data for testing the model were collected from 313 sports fans of Young Africans Sports Club and Simba Sports Club in Dodoma City, Tanzania.

Findings

The study revealed that elevated levels of cognitive attention and absorption inspire sports fans to cultivate a strong passion and commitment to their team. In turn, these highly passionate and dedicated fans are motivated to express their loyalty through evangelistic behavior.

Originality/value

By contributing to the extension of brand evangelism into sports industry, this paper highlights the pivotal role of cognitive engagement in encouraging sports fans toward eFANgelism. This study is one of the few scholarly efforts to shed light on the mechanisms that can inspire fans to exhibit evangelistic behavior.
Reciprocal dedication in times of crisis: the role of professional association membership benefits, organizational social responsibility and indebtedness
Authors: Kang Jiyun , Jung Shinyong , Shin Hhye Won
Published: February 2025

Purpose

Professional associations in the hospitality, tourism and events (HTE) industry are struggling to keep their members committed and engaged, especially in uncertain times of external crises. This study examines whether pre-crisis perceived benefits from membership lead to increased post-crisis organizational commitment and organizational citizenship, considering the moderating role of organizational social responsibility (OSR) and the mediating effect of perceived indebtedness.

Design/methodology/approach

Two sequential studies were conducted. Study 1 was designed to test the effects of perceived benefits on organizational commitment and citizenship and the moderating effects of OSR. Study 1 used a survey of event association members for a more homogeneous sample, thereby increasing the internal validity of the initial findings. Subsequently, Study 2 tested the conceptual model with the addition of a mediator – perceived indebtedness – using the second survey with a larger sample from broader hospitality and tourism associations, thereby increasing the external validity of the findings. Data from both studies were analyzed using partial least squares structural equation modeling.

Findings

Study 1 found that perceived benefits (knowledge, networking and self-esteem) enhanced organizational commitment. When moderated by OSR, networking benefits increased organizational citizenship, a more proactive form of reciprocal dedication. Study 2 confirmed perceived indebtedness as a significant mediator.

Originality/value

This paper is among the first to frame organizational commitment and citizenship as reciprocal dedication and to conceptually propose and empirically confirm indebtedness as an explicit mediator, providing robust evidence for the theory of indebtedness. The findings also offer practical implications, suggesting strategic directions for professional associations to effectively communicate their OSR initiatives to members, provide enhanced networking opportunities and cultivate perceived indebtedness.
Exploring the shopping experiences of visually impaired consumers: a scoping literature review
Authors: Thadikaran Greeshma Benny , Singh Sandeep Kumar
Published: February 2025

Purpose

This study aims to synthesize the literature on shopping experiences of visually impaired consumers (VIC). The review probes the extent of the research done, highlights the shopping experiences of VIC documented in the existing literature, pinpoints gaps and provides directions for future research.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses Arksey and O’Malley’s framework to conduct a scoping review. Articles related to VIC shopping experience were collected from Scopus databases. In total, 27 articles that met the inclusion criteria were selected for the review.

Findings

The results were divided into three sections. The analysis section conveys the extent of the research relevant to the methodology, study context, geographical location, timeline and citation analysis. The emerging themes portray the experiences VIC encounters while shopping. Finally, the consultation process revealed the current perspectives of VIC.

Practical implications

This review collates the existing literature and identifies the research gaps. These research gaps provide directions for future research. This study creates awareness of VIC shopping needs.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study to review the literature on VIC’s shopping experience.
Real Estate Insights: Reshaping the skills of future property professionals: the IDEA framework
Authors: Cheung Ka Shing
Published: February 2025

Purpose

The property profession is in the midst of significant change, driven by new technologies, evolving societal needs and the growing emphasis on sustainability. This article explores how property professionals can adapt to these changes using the IDEA framework – integration, digitisation, engagement and adaptability. The goal is to outline the essential skills and strategies that can help professionals stay relevant and effective in a rapidly changing industry.

Design/methodology/approach

Informed by discussions at the Pacific Rim Real Estate Society (PRRES) 2025 conference, this article combines academic insights with industry expertise. By examining each pillar of the IDEA framework, the article provides practical examples and case studies of how property professionals can integrate new technologies, digitise their practices, engage with key stakeholders and remain adaptable to the evolving demands of the sector.

Findings

The research reveals that the future of property professionals hinges on their ability to integrate diverse areas of knowledge, such as data science, urban planning and environmental considerations, into their work. Technology, particularly AI and geospatial data, is transforming property valuation, but professionals must also address the challenges of bias and transparency. Engagement with stakeholders – from regulators to local communities – is crucial for ensuring ethical practices, while adaptability through continuous learning, internships and real-world experience is key to thriving in this fast-changing field.

Practical implications

The findings underscore the need for property professionals to stay ahead of technological advancements and market shifts by embracing ongoing learning and practical experience. Suggestions include incorporating geospatial data into property assessments, developing ethical guidelines for AI and promoting flexible career paths through industry internships and active learning. These strategies will help professionals keep pace with industry change and enhance the profession’s long-term resilience.

Originality/value

This article presents a unique approach to preparing property professionals for the future, focusing on the practical application of the IDEA framework. It offers a fresh perspective on integrating technology, ethics and multidisciplinary collaboration into everyday practice. The article contributes valuable insights bridging the gap between academic theory and real-world application, providing thought leadership and actionable guidance for the profession.
International competitive landscape of administrative intelligent decision-making theory and application: knowledge graph analysis based on literature and patent
Authors: Huang Xin , Peng Yuxing , Li Jianfei , Zhu Guiju , Peng Han
Published: February 2025

Purpose

This article aims to elaborate on the current relevant policies, research literature and technical applications of administrative intelligent decision-making in major countries in the world, to summarize the current focus areas of international competition in administrative intelligent decision-making and to provide references and insights for other countries.

Design/methodology/approach

The knowledge graph tool CiteSpace was used to conduct a quantitative analysis of the field of administrative intelligent decision-making, using the two dimensions of research literature and technology patents to analyze the basic status and evolution process of artificial intelligence applied to administrative decision-making.

Findings

Over the past 30 years, theoretical research on administrative intelligent decision-making has primarily centered on countries like the United States of America, China and Japan. The main themes include leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) technology to enable digital government transformation, enhance administrative efficiency and promote public value through service-oriented initiatives. Countries like South Korea, China and the United States of America have demonstrated significant advantages in technology development and patent applications, focusing on e-government systems, intelligent government auditing, addressing policy mismatches between supply and demand and integrating online and offline administrative services. The international competitive landscape in this field is shaped by three key factors: foundational theories, technological advancements and practical scenario applications.

Originality/value

Despite the rapid advancements in AI technology and the acceleration of enterprise digital transformation, discussions on the intelligent transformation of administrative decision-making leveraging next-generation information technology remain limited. This study summarizes the development trajectory of administrative intelligent decision-making in major countries worldwide, analyzes the international competitive landscape of its theoretical and application research and highlights key focus areas. These findings offer valuable insights for advancing the construction of administrative intelligent decision-making systems in other nations.
Blockchain concepts in business research – a scoping review
Authors: Cîmpan Ioana , Crișan Emil Lucian
Published: February 2025

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide a condensed perspective of blockchain-related concepts for business researchers and practitioners, amid the growing popularity of the subject.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper is a literature review following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analysis Extension for Scoping Reviews methodology. We have revised 42 papers that have detailed concepts such as blockchain, Web 3.0, blockchain types, affordances, and limitations.

Findings

The paper creates a comprehensive overview of blockchain-related concepts. It starts by looking at the blockchain's various definitions and explains the technology's novelty. The components and the process of making a transaction in the blockchain are explained from a combined paradigm, including both business and technological concepts. Further on, the paper discusses the existing types of blockchain, together with the affordances provided by the usage of the technology. The last part includes the limitations of blockchain.

Originality/value

The present study reveals the existence of three paradigms while studying the subject: business-centric, technological-centric, and combined. While the primary aim of this research is to explain concepts for business researchers and practitioners, it includes technological aspects as well, therefore, aligning with the combined paradigm.
Health tourism in Hungary: future challenges for thermal spas
Authors: Smith Melanie Kay
Published: February 2025

Purpose

This article identifies some of the challenges facing health tourism development in Hungary and uses research with expert respondents to make recommendations for the sector.

Design/methodology/approach

A combination of literature review, recent statistics and Delphi study data involving health tourism experts is used to identify challenges in product and service development which affect customer satisfaction.

Findings

Spas need to concentrate on improving their infrastructure where funding allows and to create better quality products and services that are tailored and marketed to specific segments. Investment may also be needed in staff recruitment and training to overcome shortages.

Originality/value

New insights are provided into the current situation in Hungarian health tourism using a comparative study of V4 countries. This helped to identify common challenges and solutions.
A test of operational sex ratio theory across latitudes reveals temporal variation in sex‐specific behavioural reaction norms
Authors: Martinossi‐Allibert Ivain , Wacker Sebastian , Aparicio Estalella Claudia , Kvarnemo Charlotta , Amundsen Trond
Published: February 2025

Predicting the strength and direction of sexual selection is a challenge, as the effects of ecological factors, social environment and behavioural plasticity all need to be considered. The operational sex ratio (OSR) is a key variable, which has been shown to (i) affect the strength and direction of mating competition, as a social environment cue, and (ii) be affected itself by ecological conditions through sex‐specific environmental effects. Gaining a global view of (i) and (ii) in wild populations represents a necessary step for our understanding of sexual selection dynamics in the wild. Here, we address this challenge within the reaction norm framework.

We conducted an extensive field study on the two‐spotted goby Pomatoschistus flavescens, monitoring six populations along a latitudinal gradient during an entire breeding season. We compared the temporal trajectories in social environment and sexual displays across populations, which is unprecedented.

Using a reaction norm framework based on OSR theory, we show that what appears to be great variation in sexual displays across populations and sampling times, follows consistent rules. Sexual display behaviour followed behavioural reaction norms in response to the social environment that were consistent across populations, but social environment fluctuations were specific to each population.

Recording behaviour not only over time, but also along a latitudinal gradient where ecological conditions vary and in turn affect OSR, was necessary to reveal the relationship between social environment and sexual displays, which in turn contributes to sexual selection dynamics.
Honeybees interfere with wild bees in apple pollination in China
Authors: Li Jingwei , Olhnuud Aruhan , Tscharntke Teja , Wang Meina , Wu Panlong , Xu Huanli , Liu Yunhui
Published: February 2025

Honeybees (Apis mellifera) are increasingly used in commercial crop production, while wild bees are also important pollinators. Few studies have investigated the relative importance of honeybees and wild bees for apple pollination and whether the contribution of wild bees is affected by increasing numbers of honeybees.

Here, we conducted experiments in 52 commercially important Fuji apple orchards across three apple production areas in China, to investigate how wild bees, honeybees and their interaction influences apple quantity (fruit set, weight) and quality (seed number). Both honeybees and wild bees contributed to apples production, resulting in an overall 996%, 26% and 64% increase of apple fruit set, fruit weight and seed number, respectively.

We found a hump‐shaped relationship between bee density and fruit set and fruit weight with the maximum fruit set at intermediate bee density, but honeybees reached the maximum only with one and a half times higher numbers than wild bees. Furthermore, when honeybee activity density was low, an increase in wild bee activity density and species richness led to enhanced pollination contribution. Conversely, when honeybee activity density was high, increased wild bee activity density and species richness were associated with reduced pollination contribution. Additionally, the highest fruit set was observed at high densities of wild bees and intermediate densities of honeybees. These results indicate that high honeybee activity density may interfere with the pollination services provided by wild bees in apple orchards.

Synthesis and applications. Both honeybees and wild bees contribute to apple pollination and production, but wild bees evidenced much higher pollination efficiency than honeybees. Importantly, introducing high density of honeybee colonies appeared to enhance competition with wild bees, decreasing their contribution to pollination. As highest fruit set was found with high wild bee densities, but only intermediate levels of honeybee densities, it is important to carefully assess the number of honeybee colonies before possible introduction of hives for apple production, in particular when wild bee diversity and density are high. Conserving wild bee diversity is of priority to harness pollination services in apple production, given their high diversity and pollination efficiency.
Mining and/in outer space: Verticality, analogy, and infrastructural mediation in subarctic Sweden
Authors: Ojani Chakad
Published: February 2025

Space activities in subarctic Sweden are predicated on older infrastructures of underground resource extraction. The ongoing expansion of the country's rocket launch site outside Kiruna relies on the Swedish state's historical construction of the region as a resource frontier. Yet fieldwork among space actors and reindeer pastoralists reveals that relations between mining and space are also invoked ethnographically: in oppositional terms, by herders for whom the impact area of the launch site serves to hold mining companies and other land users at bay; in a positive sense, among space enthusiasts who call for potential synergies between the two industries; and analogically, by actors who envisage extraplanetary futures vis‐à‐vis mining and the subterranean. While the grounding of outer space in earthly milieus is a recurring analytical procedure in the social sciences and humanities, these empirical‐ethnographic connections and comparisons encourage an anthropological approach that also attends to the way Earth is occasionally rendered extraterrestrial‐like.
Thawing frozen foods: A comparative review of traditional and innovative methods
Authors: Çalışkan Koç Gülşah , Özkan Karabacak Azime , Süfer Özge , Adal Samiye , Çelebi Yasemin , Delikanlı Kıyak Berrak , Öztekin Sebahat
Published: February 2025

Due to the changing consumer lifestyles, the tendency to adopt foods that require less preparation time and offer both variety and convenience has played a significant role in the development of the frozen food industry. Freezing is one of the fundamental food preservation techniques, as it maintains high product quality. Freezing reduces chemical and enzymatic reactions, lowers water activity, and prevents microbial growth, thereby extending the shelf life of foods. The freezing and thawing procedures directly impact the quality of frozen foods. The degree of tissue damage is determined by the freezing rate and the structure of the ice crystals that form during the freezing process. Generally, thawing occurs more slowly than freezing. During thawing, microorganisms, as well as chemical and physical changes, can cause nutrient damage. Thus, the goal of this review is to identify innovative and optimal thawing strategies. In order to save energy and/or improve quality, new chemical and physical thawing aids are being developed alongside emerging techniques such as microwave‐assisted, ohmic‐assisted, high pressure, acoustic thawing, and so on. In addition to discussing the possible uses of these technologies for the thawing process and their effects on food quality, the purpose of this study is to present a thorough comparative overview of recent advancements in thawing techniques.
Environmental conditions and nutritional quality of vegetables in protected cultivation
Authors: Gruda Nazim S. , Samuolienė Giedrė , Dong Jinlong , Li Xun
Published: February 2025

Despite progress in reducing global hunger, micronutrient deficiencies and imbalanced diets linked to urbanization remain pressing health threats. Protected cultivation offers a promising avenue for sustainable intensification of vegetable production. Additionally, indoor and vertical farming have recently emerged as cutting‐edge strategies, particularly in densely populated urban areas and mega‐cities. However, research has focused on maximizing yield, neglecting the impact of pre‐harvest conditions on produce quality. Here, we explore strategies for manipulating environmental factors within protected cultivation systems to enhance vegetable nutritional value. Research suggests moderate stress can positively influence nutrient composition while plants exhibit stage‐specific metabolic responses to environmental factors. For instance, seedlings thrive under a higher blue‐to‐red ratio, while green light benefits leafy vegetables. Additionally, increased blue light or supplemental UV‐A benefits flowering and fruiting vegetables. When other environmental factors are optimal, light intensity significantly impacts vegetable nutritional quality, followed by CO2 levels, light spectrum, temperature, and humidity. Further research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms, the complex interplay of environmental factors, and their interaction with genetic material and cultural practices on nutritional quality.
The role of hyperuricemia in the progression of end‐stage kidney disease and its molecular prospective in inflammation and cardiovascular diseases: A general review
Authors: Waheed Yousuf Abdulkarim , Liu Jie , Almayahe Shifaa , Sun Dong
Published: February 2025

With the ongoing development of the Chinese economy, the occurrence of chronic kidney disease (CKD) has experienced a remarkable upsurge recently, and due to uremia caused by CKD, the number of patients undergoing dialysis has shown a dramatic increase. China has been ranked first in the world for patients undergoing hemodialysis (HD) and peritoneal dialysis (PD) with approximately one million patients across the country. Due to the loss of kidney function caused by CKD, the kidneys tend to lose their ability to excrete uric acid (UA) out of the body; therefore, most patients undergoing dialysis are complicated with hyperuricemia (HUA). HUA is an abnormal disease of purine metabolism, and it's considered a chronic disease. More than 90% of patients suffering from HUA will not show any symptoms on physical examination. According to statistics, if high serum UA is left untreated, 55% of patients will develop severe problems due to the purine crystallization in the body, and the kidneys are the most affected organs by HUA causing renal insufficiency that can promote end‐stage kidney disease (ESKD) by activating the renin‐angiotensin system (RAS), which will lead to inflammation, arteriosclerosis, cardiovascular diseases (CVD), and other diseases. Lifestyle modifications and pharmacological interventions are the first primary choice for lowering UA, although dialysis will tend to reduce the high UA levels in the blood, drugs are also necessary. This review will summarize the mechanisms and metabolism of UA, the relationship between HUA and ESKD progression, HUA and inflammation, HUA and CVD, and pharmacological treatment of HUA.
Neglected Human Risk Factors Determining Sustainable Health by Microbial Causes: Individual Versus Social Conducts, Scientific Versus Stultified Behaviour
Authors: Baquero Fernando
Published: February 2025

Microbes constitute a ubiquitous warp, a highly sensitive skin of the biosphere that can be scratched and damaged by all human activities. However, the existence of life in general and the human species, in particular, depends on the intelligent preservation of such a biological microbiological cement linking our health with the health of Earth. We are responsible for maintaining sustainable health by managing our damaging individual and social behaviour, and we are also charged with the duty of correcting the microbial disequilibrium we are provoking. The harmful secondary effects resulting from the nature of the species Homo sapiens are frequently neglected. However, sustainable health by microbial causes depends on our individual and social psychology. The role of individual psychology, social behaviour (including the ‘tragedy of the commons’), based on collective psychology, culture, values and social norms, and the influence on sustainable health of the methodology of research and management of interventions are briefly analysed. As a general antidote to our unavoidable natural stultified behaviour, education in science is the only possibility to counteract mistakes and restore human dignity.
Cerebral Small Vessel Disease Outperforms Brain Atrophy as an Imaging Biomarker in Diabetic Retinopathy
Authors: Shen Xinyi , Zhang Wen , Li Xin , Zhang Xin , Li Qian , Wu Min , Fu Linqing , Lu Jiaming , Zhu Zhengyang , Zhang Bing
Published: February 2025

Aim

This study aimed to examine microvascular lesions and neurodegenerative changes in diabetic retinopathy (DR) compared to type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) without DR (NDR) using structural MRI and to explore their associations with DR.

Methods

243 patients with NDR and 122 patients with DR were included. Participants underwent conventional brain MRI scans, clinical measurements, and fundus examinations. Cerebral small vessel disease (CSVD) imaging parameters were obtained using AI‐based software, manually verified, and corrected for accuracy. Volumes of major cortical and subcortical regions representing neurodegeneration were assessed using automated brain segmentation and quantitative techniques. Statistical analysis included T‐test, chi‐square test, Mann–Whitney U test, multivariate analysis of variance (MANCOVA), multivariate logistic regression, area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC), and Delong test.

Results

DR group exhibited significant differences in 11 CSVD features. Meanwhile, DR showed an atrophy trend in the frontal cortex, occipital cortex, and subcortical gray matter (GM) compared to NDR. After adjustment, DR patients exhibited greater perivascular spaces (PVS) numbers in the parietal lobe (OR = 1.394) and deep brain regions (OR = 1.066), greater dilated perivascular spaces (DPVS) numbers in the left basal ganglia (OR = 2.006), greater small subcortical infarcts (SSI) numbers in the right hemisphere (OR = 3.104), and decreased left frontal PVS (OR = 0.824), total left DPVS (OR = 0.714), and frontal cortex volume (OR = 0.959) compared to NDR. Further, the CSVD model showed a larger AUC (0.823, 95% CI: 0.781–0.866) than the brain atrophy model (AUC = 0.757, 95% CI: 0.706–0.808).

Conclusion

Microvascular and neurodegeneration are significantly associated with DR. CSVD is a better imaging biomarker for DR than brain atrophy.
Evaluation of Telocytes in the Ovary, Oviduct and Uterus of Kyrgyz Mares According to Pregnancy Status
Authors: Risvanli Ali , Hatipoglu Fatih , Salykov Ruslan , Timurkaan Necati , Kadiralieva Nariste , Kasymalieva Kaliyman K. , Seker Ibrahim , Ekinci Elif
Published: February 2025

In the current study, we aimed to determine the distribution of telocytes in the ovary, oviduct and uterus of Kyrgyz mares depending on whether they were pregnant. We also studied the progression during the first 6 months of pregnancy. To this end, ovary, oviduct and uterus tissues from 53 Kyrgyz mares were obtained post‐mortem. The mare tissue samples were divided into two groups: pregnant (n = 43) and non‐pregnant (n = 10). Telocyte levels in the tissues were determined using light microscopic and immunohistochemical methods. Subsequently, the data acquired were evaluated based on whether the mare was pregnant, and if so, the month of pregnancy was also taken into account. After the study, we found a higher number of telocytes in the myometrium (5.69 ± 0.90, p < 0.001) and oviduct propria (0.14 ± 0.05, p < 0.006) of pregnant mares. We also noted an increased number of telocytes in the oviduct propria (0.04 ± 0.02, p < 0.03) of mares 4 months into the pregnancy, and in the muscle layer (1.62 ± 0.57, p < 0.01), myometrium (4.83 ± 0.78, p < 0.03) and ovarian stroma (0.14 ± 0.06, p < 0.04) of mares 6 months into pregnancy. In conclusion, we observed an increase in telocytes in the ovaries, oviducts and uterus of Kyrgyz mares during pregnancy, with this increase becoming more marked towards the sixth month of gestation. Therefore, additional research on the role of telocytes in pregnancy may prove beneficial.