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Correction: The impact of internet use in the digital era on public political trust in China—An empirical study based on CGSS 2021 data

PLoS ONE Mar 02, 2026 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0343673

Access to information in deaf and hard-of-hearing people

PLoS ONE Eva Gutierrez-Sigut, Veronica Lamarche, Katherine Rowley et al. Mar 02, 2026 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0343904

Deaf and Hard of Hearing (HoH) people often face communication barriers that limit their access to crucial information. This study investigates which modalities deaf people used to gather information from various sources, and which factors predicted accessibility, satisfaction, and wellbeing. We report the findings from an accessible survey study, released in two written and three signed languages. Responses from 395 deaf/HoH UK and Spanish residents were collected online shortly after the COVID-19 pandemic breakout. We investigated whether the onset and Level of Deafness, knowledge of sign language, Residence, and self-assessed reading skill predicted the frequency with which they found accessible information, their satisfaction levels with the information accessed, and their physical and mental health. We found that most deaf/HoH people relied on subtitles to access information from the government and the news, but when signed information was available (i.e., from deaf organisations), SL was the preferred modality of access. Our main finding was that reading skill was a key predictor, with less skilled readers being at a disadvantage, less satisfied, and having lower health outcomes. Our findings advocate for facilitating more signed information, as well as releasing written information at appropriate reading levels and improving literacy programmes for deaf people.

Unintended evolutionary consequences of a minimum landing size regulations: Evidence and implications of fisheries-induced evolution

PLoS ONE Airam Guerra-Marrero, Javier Baixauli-Rodríguez, Ana Espino-Ruano et al. Mar 02, 2026 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0343706

A total of 725 historical photographs taken between 1940–2022 were analysed to assess the temporal variations in target species and the size-frequency distribution of recreational fishing catches in the Canary Islands. A significant shift from predominantly single-species fishing to a more diverse, multispecies approach was observed, particularly since 2000. Species such as Dentex gibbosus , Diplodus cadenati , Epinephelus marginatus , Lithognathus mormyrus , and Sparisoma cretense showed consistent size reductions over the decades. The analysis revealed discrepancies between current Minimum Landing Sizes (MLS) in the Canary Islands and the lengths at which these species reach sexual maturity (L50), or the length at which 50% of fish are mature. Except for Diplodus cadenati , the MLS for the examined species are smaller than their respective L50 values, indicating that individuals are often harvested before reproducing. The use of the L50 as a standard for reference length can trigger a fisheries-induced evolution. This occurs because the extractive activities resulting from this standard promote reduced fish size and earlier maturation, which could lead to lasting evolutionary changes in fish communities. Our study underscores the need to reevaluate minimum landing size (MLS) regulations and seek a transition towards L95, to ensure they are aligned with the reproductive biology of target species, thereby promoting sustainable fishing practices and the conservation of marine biodiversity in the Canary Islands. Even so, this proposed improvement and the results of this study should be combined with a Harvest-slot length limits (based on species-specific ecological and demographic studies) to ensure the survival of megaspawners.

Validation of performance of Spanish version of PURE-4 questionnaire for early identification of psoriatic arthritis after 1 year of follow-up in patients with psoriasis

PLoS ONE R. Queiro-Silva, A. López-Ferrer, M. Ferran i Farrés et al. Mar 02, 2026 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0342498

Background and objective Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) is an inflammatory, chronic and progressive musculoskeletal disease associated with psoriasis. The validation of the Spanish version of the Psoriatic arthritis UnclutteRed screening Evaluation (PURE-4) questionnaire has been published previously. The present analysis studied the performance of the PURE-4 questionnaire for the early detection of PsA one year before its diagnosis. Materials and methods This was an observational multicenter study, including two cross-sectional assessments, with primary data collection in routine clinical practice in Spain. Adult patients with psoriasis and confirmed not having PsA diagnosis during Assessment I completed Assessment II by the rheumatologist one year (±2 months) after answering the PURE-4 questionnaire. This work presents the results of Assessment II, to confirm/rule out the presence of PsA in patients with psoriasis one year after PURE-4 answering. The analysis, involving the results from Assessment II, will evaluate the performance of the PURE-4 questionnaire for the early detection of potential PsA in terms of sensitivity and specificity. Results There were 219 evaluable patients, 56.2% male, and the mean (standard deviation [SD]) age was 46.8 (12.5) years. At one year, the PsA diagnosis was confirmed in 12 (5.5%) patients, representing 26.1% of the total number of patients with PsA diagnosed since the beginning of the study. The mean (SD) PURE-4 score was 2.4 (1.1) for patients with PsA and 1.2 (1.2) for patients without a diagnosis of PsA (p = 0.0016). The area under the receiver-operating characteristic (ROC) curve confirmed the good quality of the questionnaire (0.7618; 95% CI: 0.6530–0.8706; n = 217). PURE-4 showed a sensitivity of 75.0% and a specificity of 62.9%. Conclusions The PURE-4 questionnaire offers good clinimetric capabilities for the early detection of PsA with a score ≥2. Of the total number of patients with PsA, one in four were detected one year after answering positively to the questionnaire, which would help to predict which patients are at high risk of developing PsA. The authors reinforce the recommendation to closely follow up with these patients.

Regulatory mechanisms of amino acid metabolic pathways in Rhododendron chrysanthum Pall. Under UV-B stress

PLoS ONE Jie Lyu, Xiangqun Li, Wang Yu et al. Mar 02, 2026 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0343024

UV-B radiation, worsened by ozone layer depletion, threatens plant health. The alpine plant Rhododendron chrysanthum has evolved mechanisms to counteract UV-B damage. This study examined the response of R. chrysanthum seedlings to UV-B radiation in an artificial climate chamber, focusing on the molecular mechanisms through metabolomics and transcriptomics. We identified 2 distinct amino acids, 35 differentially expressed genes (DEGs), and 2 families of transcription factors (TFs), which involved in amino acids metabolic pathways, including the biosynthesis of phenylalanine, tyrosine, and tryptophan, as well as phenylpropanoid biosynthesis and phenylalanine metabolism. Under UV-B stress, bHLH TFs significantly correlated with the expression of aroD, aroE, TAT, TRP3, trpD, DDC/TDC, PAAS, HCT, CCR, and COMT, thereby accumulating L-phenylalanine and L-tyrosine levels. WRKY TFs significantly correlated with the expression of all these enzymes except COMT, thus accumulating the levels of L-phenylalanine and L-tyrosine. These two families of TFs exhibit both synergistic and antagonistic regulatory roles in amino acid metabolic pathways. The findings presented are significant not only for understanding the UV-B resistance of R. chrysanthum but also for serving as a reference for the study of other plant species. This research will contribute to the theoretical foundation necessary for the cultivation of plant varieties with enhanced UV-B stress tolerance.

Association among serum uric acid, hyperactivity, impulsivity and dietary components in adults: a cross-sectional study Uric acid, hyperactivity/impulsivity symptoms, and dietary components in adults

PLoS ONE Roberto A. Molina-Campuzano, Mariela Bernabe-Garcia, Felipe Vazquez-Estupiñan et al. Mar 02, 2026 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0343566

Background A positive association has been reported between elevated serum levels of uric acid (UA) with impulsivity and hyperactivity, behavior in murine models, and human psychopathologies. Still, other factors, such as diet composition, have not been considered. This study aims to determine the association between serum UA, impulsivity/hyperactivity symptoms, and dietary components in adults with psychiatric disorders. Methods A prospective cross-sectional study was conducted on 128 adults who attended a psychiatric service. Fasting serum UA levels were determined by spectrophotometry. Impulsivity and hyperactivity symptoms were evaluated using the Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS). Dietary components, including macronutrients, fiber, fructose, added sugar, vitamin C, zinc, copper, n-3 fatty acids, caffeine, and alcohol, were estimated using a 24-hour recall, food models, and nutrition software. Spearman's correlation and general linear models were applied. The last was used to adjust for confounders. Results Serum UA levels were positively correlated to symptoms of hyperactivity/impulsivity and hyperactivity ( Rho  = 0.206, p = 0.020; Rho  = 0.194, p = 0.028, respectively). Those correlations remained significant after adjusting for confounders. Every 1 mg/dl increase in serum UA levels predicted an elevation of 1.5 points of the hyperactivity/impulsivity symptoms ( p = 0.002; p- model< 0.001) and 1 point of the hyperactivity symptoms ( p = 0.003; p- model < 0.001). Hyperactivity/impulsivity symptoms together and separated were positively correlated with depression ( Rho  = 0.470, Rho  = 0.389, Rho  = 0.485; all p < 0.001, respectively). Serum UA levels negatively correlated with dietary intake of total fiber, vitamin C, and copper but positively with waist circumference ( Rho  = −0.297, Rho  = −0.185, Rho  = −0.212, and Rho  = 0.203, all p <  0.05, respectively). Hyperactivity correlated with dietary zinc, while impulsivity correlated with alcohol consumption ( Rho  = −0.185 and Rho  = 0.195, p < 0.05, respectively). Conclusion The serum UA concentration independently predicts hyperactivity/impulsivity symptoms in adults with psychiatric disorders.

The behavioral driving mechanism of ecological co-management among multiple subjects from the perspective of social network embedding: Evidence from coffee-producing areas in China

PLoS ONE Xiumei Xu, Dengke Wang Mar 02, 2026 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0343504

The coffee-growing areas in the Gaoligong Mountains of China face ecological challenges including soil erosion and water pollution from traditional processing methods. To analyze the drivers of stakeholder participation in addressing these issues, this study integrates the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) and Social Network Embeddedness Theory (SNET), which together explain how individual cognitions and social structures shape cooperative behavior. Data from a stratified survey of 137 stakeholders were analyzed using PLS-SEM. The results demonstrate that (1) Both emotional networks (ENW) and suggestive networks (SNW) have significant direct effects on participation intention. (2) Indirectly, ENW enhances intention by strengthening individual behavioral attitude, subjective norm, and perceived behavioral control through emotional bonds and identity. (3) SNW improves intention primarily by boosting perceived behavioral control through information dissemination. And (4) the core TPB constructs (attitude, norm, control) are confirmed as key mediators. This paper contributes a validated integrated framework that elucidates the social-psychological pathways for fostering effective ecological co-management.

Correction: Investigating the effectiveness of structured mindfulness sessions in mitigating burnout among final-year dental students: A mixed-methods analysis

PLoS ONE Aliya Islam, Javeria Rehman, Sumbul Mujeeb et al. Mar 02, 2026 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0344206

Klotho levels and biological age acceleration: Insights from a diverse cohort of middle-aged and elderly individuals

PLoS ONE Mengna Huang, Guoxin Huang, Chaoshen Wu et al. Mar 02, 2026 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0343429

Objective Aging is characterized by progressive physiological and psychological changes, leading to decreased cellular metabolism and increased vulnerability to age-related diseases. Methods. In this study, we examined the relationship between circulating Klotho levels and biological age acceleration (BAA) in a representative cohort of middle-aged and older adults. Data were obtained from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES, 2007–2010), including 5,654 participants aged 45–85 years. Serum Klotho concentrations were quantified using ELISA, while biological age was estimated with the BioAge R package. Result Linear regression analyses demonstrated a robust inverse association between log-transformed Klotho levels and BAA across all statistical models, with reductions of −1.06 (95% CI: −1.77 to −0.36, p = 0.005), −1.44 (95% CI: −2.15 to −0.73, p < 0.001), and −1.30 (95% CI: −2.20 to −0.40, p = 0.01). Consistent results were observed in logistic regression models, where higher Klotho concentrations were linked to lower odds of accelerated aging (OR = 0.72, 95% CI: 0.59–0.88, p = 0.002; OR = 0.63, 95% CI: 0.51–0.77, p < 0.0001; OR = 0.62, 95% CI: 0.46–0.84, p = 0.01). Subgroup analyses revealed significant associations in women, participants over 60 years of age, and individuals without chronic illnesses. Interaction analyses further indicated that age (p-interaction = 0.002), alcohol intake (p-interaction = 0.04), and diabetes status (p-interaction = 0.03) significantly modified the Klotho–BAA relationship. Moreover, restricted cubic spline analysis showed a non-linear L-shaped dose-response pattern, suggesting that the protective effect of Klotho becomes more pronounced above a certain threshold. Conclusion Collectively, these findings underscore the pivotal role of Klotho in the biology of aging and emphasize the importance of accounting for demographic and health-related modifiers in future investigations.

KPC-33 and ompK37 mutations: Unraveling the mechanism of ceftazidime/avibactam resistance in ST11 carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae

PLoS ONE Shulong Zhao, Lin Ye, Shuang Song et al. Mar 02, 2026 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0342729

Background Global surveillance indicates rising ceftazidime-avibactam resistance among carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae (CRKP), with sequence type 11 predominating in China. The contribution of bla KPC variants and porin alterations to high-level resistance remains significant. Methods We employed whole-genome sequencing and functional analyses to characterise a CZA-resistant ST11 CRKP isolate recovered from a patient without prior exposure to ceftazidime-avibactam or carbapenems. Results The isolate harboured bla KPC-33 on a non-conjugative plasmid and multiple non-synonymous mutations in the porin gene ompK37, concomitant with high-level resistance to ceftazidime-avibactam and carbapenems while retaining susceptibility to tigecycline, polymyxin B and amikacin. Conclusions bla KPC-33 coupled with OmpK37 alterations underpins dual resistance to ceftazidime-avibactam and carbapenems in ST11 CRKP, underscoring the need for genomic surveillance and rapid detection of this resistance mechanism.

Analysis of gunshot injuries to the different surfaces of the shaft of a porcine femur with various lead airgun pellets fired from a 6.35 mm calibre air rifle using a human thigh model

PLoS ONE Mateusz Wilk, Elżbieta Chowaniec, Karol Jędrasiak et al. Mar 02, 2026 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0343400

Modern air weapons are approaching firearms with their capabilities. Shots from this type of weapon pose an increasing threat to humans and animals. The vast variation in airgun ammunition means that gunshot damage can vary depending on the type of bullet that hits the tissues. The study was undertaken to investigate how the type of lead airgun pellet calibre of 6.35 mm and surface of femoral shaft affected by gunshot damage have impact on extent of bone and periosteal entry damage. In our study, we subjected a porcine femur contained in a ballistic gelatine human thigh model to damage. 3 types of Haendler&Natterman (H&N) airgun pellets were fired at the anterior, posterior and lateral surfaces of the femoral shaft. The impact energies of the projectiles were measured. The properties of the femoral shaft were evaluated. The models were then subjected to X-ray imaging and slicing for photographic evaluation of pellet shot damage. The surface area of inlet damage in the bone and periosteum was measured, and the ratio of these dimensions to each other was calculated. It was noted that the posterior wall of the porcine femoral shaft is the thickest, and the lateral wall has the greatest variation in thickness. As a result of statistical analysis, it was noted that for the front surface of the femoral shaft, H&N Baracuda Hunter shot generated the biggest damage area and H&N Silverpoint the smallest; for the posterior surface, H&N Baracuda Hunter biggest and H&N Baracuda smallest damage area respectively; and for the lateral surface, H&N Silverpoint the biggest and H&N Baracuda the smallest damage area respectively. This is most likely influenced by the properties of the individual airgun pellets and the different thicknesses of the femoral shaft walls, including significant variation in the thickness of the lateral wall.

Mapping the quality of Norwegian health information –Does it facilitate informed choices?

PLoS ONE Jürgen Kasper, Betül Cokluk, Marianne Molin et al. Mar 02, 2026 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0327148

Background and aim Health literacy refers to the ability to use relevant information to make informed choices. However, the quality of the available information influences how well individuals can make those choices. Evidence-based recommendations for the development and design of health information have recently been published. In this study, we aimed to map the quality of Norwegian web-based health information across selected public health domains. Methods Using a multiple-cross-sectional design, we assessed information in 16 health domains relevant to infants, children, and youth. Convenience samples were drawn using structured Google searches. Three independent raters conducted the quality appraisal by applying the 19 criteria of the Mapping the quality of health information checklist. Inter-rater reliability was calculated using T-coefficients. Information quality was statistically described. To explain variance in quality, mean quality scores were compared across three independent variables: the type of the health problem, target group, and provider class. Results Across the surveys, 1,948 health information materials from 64 subdomains were assessed. Inter-rater reliability was excellent (mean T = .89/.90). On average, the materials complied with 22% (range: 0–73%, standard deviation = .09) of the current minimal standard. Differences between types of problems or target groups were marginal. No differences were found between information provided by health authorities, health services, or commercial entities. Conclusion Norwegian web-based health information is not of sufficient quality to facilitate informed health choices made by citizens. These findings apply across a wide range of public health domains relating to infants, children, and youth. In the absence of appropriate health information of acceptable quality, estimates of the public’s level of health literacy may need reconsideration. Further research is needed to appraise the quality of information in other health domains and countries.

Treatment of asymptomatic tuberculosis: Protocol for a systematic review of treatment strategies, regimens, and clinical outcomes

PLoS ONE Yang Li, Ammar Saad, Zhen Feng et al. Mar 02, 2026 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0342929

Introduction Asymptomatic tuberculosis (TB) is increasingly recognised through active case finding and prevalence surveys. However, treatment strategies for this patient group remain poorly defined, and there is no consensus on optimal regimens, duration, or outcomes. Methods and analysis We will conduct a systematic review of observational and interventional studies reporting anti-TB treatment in patients with asymptomatic TB. Databases including MEDLINE, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science, CINAHL, and the Cochrane Library will be searched without language restrictions. Outcomes of interest include favourable outcome rate, treatment coverage, success rate, relapse, mortality, loss to follow-up, adverse events, and patient-reported outcomes such as pill burden and treatment discontinuation. Study selection, data extraction, and quality assessment will be performed independently by two reviewers, following PRISMA guidelines. Where appropriate, meta-analyses will be conducted using a random-effects model. Discussion This review will provide a comprehensive synthesis of current evidence on the treatment of asymptomatic TB. It aims to inform future clinical and public health strategies, including the potential for simplified or shortened treatment regimens tailored to this population. By identifying gaps and inconsistencies in current practice, the findings will support evidence-based decision-making and contribute to global TB control efforts.

Resilient in adversity: Innovative treatment support interventions in facilitating ART adherence among young adults living with HIV in the informal settlements of Kibera, Nairobi

PLoS ONE Odylia Muhenje, Charles O. Olungah, Dalmas O. Omia et al. Mar 02, 2026 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0322823

Background Human Immunodeficiency Virus/Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (HIV/AIDS) poses significant health challenges. Despite ongoing efforts to scale up Antiretroviral therapy (ART) to save lives from AIDS-related morbidity and mortality,adherence among young adults remains low at 65% in sub-Saharan Africa. Aim Our study aimed to inform the development of youth-friendly, context-sensitive programs that are both scalable and sustainable in urban informal settlements. This paper presents findings on youth facilitators to ART adherence in Kibera informal settlement. Setting The study was conducted in Nairobi urban informal settlement of Kibra, Nairobi county, Kenya. Methods We utilized in-depth interviews (n = 25) and key informant interviews (n = 10) to collect data on faciliators to ART adherence among purposively selected eligible partcipants. Thematic analysis framework was employed to analyze the data. Results HIV adherence facilitators encompassed patient-related factors like self-acceptance and open disclosure, health system factors such as accessibility, provider relationships, and patient reminders, and socio-economic aspects including support groups, education awareness, family support, and economic empowerment. Conclusions The findings emphasize the need for tailored, age-appropriate, and context-specific interventions in informal settlements to enhance HIV adherence. Fostering self-acceptance, creating an enabling environment through youth friendly services, improving provider-patient relationships, and leveraging social support systems such as peer groups and educational initiatives are essential strategies. Integrating these elements into programmatic and policy frameworks will ensure that interventions resonate with the unique realities of this populationpromoting sustainable adherence outcomes. Contribution The findings will provide a foundation for developing context-sensitive interventions and programs to improve adherence in similar settings.

Seafloor vegetation map of man-made boulders reef by underwater photogrammetry: Suggestions for site selections in macroalgal bed creations

PLoS ONE Takayuki Kanki, Wataru Sano, Masami Sannoh et al. Mar 02, 2026 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0341865

Macroalgal beds play important roles in coastal ecosystems by supplying oxygen, providing food resources, and offering habitats for various marine animals. In recent years, macroalgal beds have significantly declined due to various factors, leading to efforts toward macroalgal bed restorations. Despite these efforts, suitable sites for macroalgal bed creations remain insufficiently understood. In this study, we investigated suitable location conditions for establishment of macroalgal beds by mapping the seafloor vegetation. In an 80 m × 20 m area at a depth of 4.5–9.2 meters in Himeshima Island, Fukuoka, Japan, man-made boulders reef was created by the local government in the fiscal year 2016 for macroalgal bed creation. A 3D model of the seafloor, with a resolution of 0.07 meters, was created using underwater photogrammetry, enabling the visualization of macroalgal vegetation on these artificial boulders through a detailed seafloor vegetation map. Rich macroalgal vegetation, including Sargassum spp. and Undaria pinnatifida was established on the boulders placed on sandy bottoms. In contrast, on the boulders placed on natural cobble/boulder reefs, only a short-lived seaweed Colpomenia sinuosa was observed, and almost all boulders showed no vegetation. Even on the sandy bottoms, boulders that were adjacent to or surrounded by natural cobble/boulder reefs, or those that were piled together, tended to have poor vegetation. For effective macroalgal beds creation, installation of boulders at a low density on sandy bottoms would be preferable, while avoiding the areas on or adjacent to natural cobble/boulder reefs.

Correction: Effect of perchlorate on biocementation capable bacteria and Martian bricks

PLoS ONE Swati Dubey, Shubhanshu Shukla, Nitin Gupta et al. Mar 02, 2026 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0344195

The predictive value of the dynamic change slope of red blood cell distribution width to platelet ratio combined with clinical indicators for the mortality outcome of patients with sepsis

PLoS ONE Mingjuan Li, Zhonghua Lu, Lijun Cao et al. Mar 02, 2026 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0343684

This retrospective study investigated the predictive value of the dynamic slope of the red blood cell distribution width to platelet ratio (RPR) for in-hospital mortality in patients with sepsis admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU). A total of 154 patients with sepsis admitted to the ICU of the Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University between August 2023 and August 2024 were included and classified into non-survivors ( n  = 37) and survivors ( n  = 117) according to in-hospital outcome. Red blood cell distribution width (RDW) and platelet count (PLT) were recorded on days 1–5 after ICU admission, and RPR was calculated as RDW/PLT. Generalized estimating equations demonstrated significant differences in RPR between groups and over time, with a significant group-time interaction, indicating distinct temporal trends between survivors and non-survivors. The RPR in the survivors increased initially and then declined, whereas the RPR in the non-survivors showed a continuous upward trend. Receiver operating characteristic analysis showed that the slope of RPR change had good predictive performance for in-hospital mortality, with an area under the curve of 0.863 (95% CI 0.781–0.946). Optimal cutoff value of 0.017 yielded sensitivity of 86.5% and specificity of 83.8%. Multivariate logistic regression analysis identified high RPR slope (OR = 5.665, 95% CI 1.453–22.084), lactate level, Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) score, and mechanical ventilation time as independent risk factors for in-hospital mortality. Furthermore, the combined model incorporating RPR slope, SOFA score, lactate, and mechanical ventilation time showed excellent predictive ability, with an area under the curve of 0.954 (95% CI 0.924–0.983). These findings suggest that dynamic monitoring of RPR provides valuable prognostic information and may improve early risk stratification in patients with sepsis.

Diffraction‐Enabled Operando Nanoscale Tracking of Li‐ion Dynamics of Solid Electrolyte and Inhomogeneous Diffusion in Composite Cathode

Angewandte Chemie International Edition Po‐Jui Chu, Jheng‐Yi Huang, Yu‐Shuo Liu et al. Mar 02, 2026 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202520281

Abstract Li + diffusion has mostly been studied in cathode active materials (CAMs) in liquid batteries, whereas it remains rarely explored in solid‐state electrolytes (SSEs) and all‐solid‐state batteries. Herein, diffraction was established as an effective method for all‐solid‐state lithium batteries (ASSLBs) by focusing on SSE in composite cathodes. Operando synchrotron x‐ray diffraction presented diffraction angle shifts of certain Li 3 InCl 6 Bragg planes during the first ASSLB cycle due to lithiation/delithiation into its lattice, whose preferred Li + migration pathways were suggested by the partiality of these shifts, and the three‐phase evolution indicated the fundamental Li + diffusion kinetics factors. X‐ray nanodiffraction (XND) mapped nanoscale inhomogeneous Li + distributions and diffusion within individual Li 3 InCl 6 particles, revealing facilitated Li + conduction in high‐crystallinity regions and their role as pathways across SSE/CAM interfaces, and the most negatively strained regions were shown to be less susceptible to Li + insertion. XND from various electrochemical techniques inferred high transient charging rates to be the culprit of irreversible Li + diffusion instead of the overall charging depth. This study proved diffraction to be a potent tool to probe intricate Li + dynamics in ASSLBs and provide microscopic insights for optimal battery designs.

Navigating work, family, and society: Challenges facing Jordanian female journalists

PLoS ONE Hana Al-Souob, Enas A Assaf Mar 02, 2026 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0343919

The aim of this study is to explore the challenges encountered by Jordanian female journalists, focusing on their experiences in the journalistic work environment (including the workplace and the field) in addition to the challenges faced from society and family. Through using a qualitative and inductive approach by conducting in-depth interviews with Jordanian female journalists who are registered professionals working in a variety of media environments, including daily, weekly, and electronic media. The research findings explore a wide range of challenges female journalists face in Jordan, including workplace issues and external challenges from family and society. The following main themes were emerged in the study, at the workplace level: harassment and newsroom safety; pay inequalities, organizational culture and leadership this point leads to subthemes as bullying, framing female Journalists, and stigmatization, On the other hands challenges themes found at the level of the society and family security which emerged several subthemes as party affiliation, security harassment, and cultural beliefs, as well as family, parents and relatives perspectives. The findings highlight persistent gender‑based discrimination shaped by workplace practices and cultural expectations. Strengthening protections, ensuring fair pay and promotion, and shifting societal attitudes are essential to supporting female journalists. Further research is needed to better understand these challenges and inform effective solutions.

Comparative evaluation of otolith and fin ray as tools for assessing population differentiation in Atlantic sturgeon (Acipenser oxyrinchus)

PLoS ONE Simon Bernatchez, Louis Landry-Massicotte, Yves Paradis et al. Mar 02, 2026 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0343989

Atlantic sturgeon ( Acipenser oxyrinchus Mitchill, 1815) is a long-lived, anadromous species known for its extensive migrations between freshwater and marine habitats throughout its life. Despite increased conservation efforts, there is only limited information on the early life stages and habitat use of the St. Lawrence River (SLR) and Saint John River (SJR) populations in Eastern Canada. This study explores the use of otolith and fin ray microchemistry to distinguish Atlantic sturgeon populations and investigate habitat use throughout their lives. The otoliths and fin rays of fish caught in both the SLR and SJR regions were analyzed using LA-ICP-MS procedures to determine their elemental signatures throughout their lifespan (coretoedge). Using a machine learning classification approach, both otolith and fin ray revealed strong potentials for differentiating individuals from the SLR and SJR populations. Fin ray microchemistry showed a higher reclassification success and produced more contrasted elemental signatures compared to otolith microchemistry. Our results also showed that the integration of elements is dependent on the structure (i.e., fin ray or otolith). A significant correlation between element concentrations at the core of fin rays and otoliths was observed for only three elements (Sr, Mn, and Li). This phenomenon should be further investigated and considered in future applications because it could lead to reclassification errors. These findings suggest that fin ray microchemistry is a powerful approach that can be used to discriminate population origin and infer life history patterns of Atlantic sturgeon. These results are especially relevant since we propose a cost-effective method to monitor population structure and habitat use without lethal sampling. This is an essential step toward careful management of this species in Eastern Canada.