bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluating a novel team learning approach for integrating drugs in sports education in preclinical medical training
Authors: Pelobello Samuel , Potter Grayson , Rogstad Daniel K. , Mock Andrew J. , Wilson Sean M.
Published: February 2025

Use of performance-enhancing drugs and supplements continues to be pervasive in sports. Medical practitioners are key because they are well positioned to prevent doping among athletes as they are a trusted resource for the patients whom they serve. At Loma Linda University School of Medicine, we are seeking to provide medical students with education on the topic of drugs in sports so that they can better serve their patients. This study evaluated the implementation of a novel Case-Based Team Learning session on drugs in sports for preclinical first year (MS1) and second year (MS2) medical students. The session aimed to introduce fundamental concepts of performance-enhancing drugs, anti-doping regulations, and patient communication strategies within the context of sports medicine. Post instructional survey data on the learning environment and qualitative feedback responses were collected from 189 MS1 and 170 MS2 students. Results of the quantitative data showed that MS1 students rated the session more positively than MS2 students. Qualitative data was collected through open-ended questions, allowing for more detailed and nuanced responses. AI models were used to identify common themes and patterns in the qualitative feedback responses. These responses provided valuable insights for future curriculum refinement and development of the newly implemented drugs in sports education program. Both cohorts appreciated the interactive nature of the session and real-life applications but identified areas for improvement, including better alignment with curriculum objectives and exam preparation. Key challenges included balancing content relevance with broader medical education goals and integrating communication skills training within a large group setting. Faculty reflection highlighted the need for restructuring the session to better match instructional block content and USMLE Step 1 exam preparation. Future iterations will focus on emphasizing drug pharmacology, mechanisms of action, and physiological effects for MS1 students, while providing opportunities for more comprehensive knowledge integration through the case studies for MS2 students. This evaluation of the learning session underscores the importance of iterative curriculum development in medical education, particularly when introducing novel topics like drugs in sports.
Combined analysis of 16S rRNA gene sequencing data reveals core vaginal bacteria across livestock species
Authors: Jonas Lucille C. , Youngs Curtis R. , Schmitz-Esser Stephan
Published: February 2025

Investigating the livestock vaginal microbiota is of increasing interest due to its relationship with animal reproductive performance. Recent publications have uncovered a high degree of variability of the livestock vaginal microbiota, making it difficult to focus functional research on individual microorganisms. To address this variability, we conducted a combined analysis of publicly available 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing datasets to reveal the core vaginal microbiota in cattle, sheep, and pigs. The goal of this combined analysis was to identify bacterial genera that were shared despite a diverse overall sample population. A total of 2,911 vaginal samples (715 cattle, 964 sheep, and 1,232 pigs) from 29 different datasets were used in this combined analysis. Beta diversity analysis revealed structural differences of the vaginal microbiota between different animal species. Compositionally, the most abundant phyla were Bacillota, Pseudomonadota, and Bacteroidota. At the genus level, an unclassified Pasteurellaceae genus, Ureaplasma, and Streptococcus were the most abundant. Across the vaginal microbiota of individual livestock species, compositional differences were observed. The cattle and sheep vaginal microbiota contained a higher abundance of Ureaplasma and Histophilus whereas the pig vaginal microbiota contained more Fusobacterium and Parvimonas than that of the other livestock samples. Among the cattle, 120 OTUs and 82 genera were present in 70% of the vaginal samples. At the same threshold, pig samples had 40 core OTUs and 63 core genera, while the sheep samples had 22 core OTUs and 50 core genera. There were 19 overlapping core vaginal genera across the three animal species. The core vaginal OTUs were largely species-specific, although there were eight overlapping OTUs. These included Streptococcus (OTU 21), Clostridium sensu stricto 1 (OTU 18), and Corynebacterium (OTU 6), which were also some of the most abundant members of the livestock core vaginal microbiota. A better understanding of the livestock vaginal microbiota is required for future studies aimed at elucidation of the functional significance of individual microbes with respect to livestock reproductive efficiency. The core vaginal genera identified in this analysis will help guide research on mechanisms/pathways through which individual organisms enhance or impede animal reproductive efficiency.
Impact of virtual agent facial emotions and attention on N170 ERP amplitude: comparative study
Authors: Kirasirova Luisa , Maslova Olga , Pyatin Vasiliy
Published: February 2025

Introduction

It is known from the literature that face perception of virtual agents affects the amplitude and latency of the ERP components. However, sensitivity of the N170 component to virtual agent facial emotions, and level of attention to facial emotional expressions were not investigated in the virtual reality environment by now, which was the aim of our study.

Methods

EEG recording, 2D and 3D visual testing of the neutral, happy and disgusted facial emotions of virtual agents were used. The protocol consisted of three sessions in the attentional condition of participants to each facial emotion (passive, active, and active to neutral facial emotional expression). The amplitudes of the N170 ERP were also reflected in the comparative analysis between 2D and VR.

Results

In the context of virtual agent facial emotional expressions, we identified the following dynamics of the N170 amplitude: attention (passive/active) showed no signaling effect; active attention to neutral virtual agent facial emotions reduced the N170 amplitude; significant interactions were observed between the factors “emotion × attention” and “environment × attention,” but no interaction was found among all three factors.

Conclusion

The immersive quality of the environment in which visual and emotional events are presented has a less pronounced effect on early-stage facial processing at N170 amplitude. Thus, our findings indicate that the N170 amplitude is primarily modulated by the emotional content and attention directed to virtual agent facial emotional expressions.
From non-human to human primates: a translational approach to enhancing resection, safety, and indications in glioma surgery while preserving sensorimotor abilities
Authors: Gambaretti Matteo , Viganò Luca , Gallo Matteo , Pratelli Giovanni , Sciortino Tommaso , Gay Lorenzo , Conti Nibali Marco , Gallotti Alberto Luigi , Tariciotti Leonardo , Mattioli Luca , Bello Lorenzo , Cerri Gabriella , Rossi Marco
Published: February 2025

Since the pivotal studies of neurophysiologists in the early 20th century, research on brain functions in non-human primates has provided valuable insights into the neural mechanisms subserving neurological function. By using data acquired on non-human primates as a reference, important progress in knowledge of the human brain and its functions has been achieved. The translational impact allowed by this scientific effort must be recognized in the implementation of the current surgical techniques particularly in support of the neurosurgical approach to brain tumors. In the surgical treatment of brain tumors, the ability to maximally extend the resection allows an improvement in overall survival, progression-free survival, and quality of life of patients. The main goal, and, at the same time, the main challenge, of oncological neurological surgery is to avoid permanent neurological deficit while reaching maximal resection, particularly when the tumor infiltrates the neural network subserving motor functions. Brain mapping techniques were developed using neurophysiological probes to identify the areas and tracts subserving sensorimotor function, ensuring their preservation during the resection. During the last 20 years, starting from the classical “Penfield” technique, brain mapping has been progressively implemented. Among the major advancements was the introduction of high-frequency direct electrical stimulation. Its refinement, along with the complementary use of low-frequency stimulation, allowed a further refinement of stimulation protocols. In this narrative review, we propose an analysis of the process through which the knowledge acquired through experiments on non-human primates influenced and changed the current approach to neurosurgical procedures. We then describe the main brain mapping techniques used in the resection of tumors located within sensorimotor circuits. We also detail how these techniques allowed the acquisition of new data on the properties of areas and tracts underlying sensorimotor control, in turn fostering the design of new tools to navigate within cortical and subcortical areas, that were before deemed to be “sacred and untouchable.”
Case report: From misdiagnosis to timely detection: a clinical and imaging guide to neurological presentations of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma—insights from six cases
Authors: Yang Chunxiao , Gong Zihua , Wang Tao , Yuan Huijuan , Na Weinan , Xie Wei , Yu Shengyuan
Published: February 2025

Background

The clinical spectrum of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) is notably heterogeneous. Some DLBCL patients initially present with neurological manifestations, leading to their preliminary diagnosis within neurology departments. However, the overlap of clinical and auxiliary examination findings with those of various neurological entities—such as cerebral infarction, demyelination, viral encephalitis, and peripheral neuropathy—often results in diagnostic misattribution.

Case presentation

We delineate six pathologically-confirmed DLBCL cases, each heralded by neurological deficits, including limb paresis, sensory loss, vertigo, seizure activity, and aphasia. These presentations precipitated multiple erroneous diagnoses pertaining to nervous system pathologies, culminating in a median diagnostic latency of 8 months.

Conclusion

The differential diagnostic process for the misdiagnosed conditions in these cases has been meticulously revisited, enhancing the diagnostic acumen of neurologists. These cases underscore the imperative for neurologists to maintain a high index of suspicion for lymphoma in atypical presentations and to judiciously integrate multimodal diagnostic modalities—such as comprehensive imaging, cerebrospinal fluid analysis, and biopsy—to expedite diagnosis and initiate timely intervention.
The development and evaluation of a tublysine-based antibody-drug conjugate with enhanced tumor therapeutic efficacy
Authors: Guo Huihui , Xie Hongsheng , Huang Yuanyuan , Jia Junxiang , Kong Xiangfei , Yang Qingliang , Gai Shun , Li Wenjun , Bai Lu , Zhang Lingli , Chen Xiaoxiao , Ye Zhicang , Ye Hangbo , Zhao Linyao , Xu Yifang , Du Yong , Zhang Xiuzhen , Chen Miaomiao , Zhou Xiaomai , Zhao Robert Y.
Published: February 2025

Antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) offer targeted cancer therapy by delivering cytotoxic agents directly to tumor cells. However, challenges such as relapse, resistance, and diverse patient needs drive ongoing innovation in ADC development. Exploration of new small-molecule toxins with unique antitumor and toxicity profiles is crucial. Tub114, a novel Tubulysin B analog with a hydrophilic ethylene glycol moiety, has been conjugated to the anti-HER2 antibody DX-CHO9, forming the ADC DX126-262. This study examines the efficacy, pharmacokinetics, and safety profile of DX126-262, with a focus on Tubulysin-associated liver toxicity. In vivo efficacy was assessed using three HER2-positive tumor models, with dose-dependent tumor growth inhibition compared to established treatments. Pharmacokinetic studies were conducted in cynomolgus monkeys across a dosing range (3–30 mg/kg) to compare clearance and stability with Kadcyla and Enhertu. Acute toxicity assays were conducted in mice (75 and 150 mg/kg doses), and repeated-dose toxicity was evaluated over five doses, administered every 3 weeks in rats and cynomolgus monkeys. DX126-262 demonstrated significant and dose-dependent tumor growth inhibition across HER2-positive models, with superior antitumor efficacy compared to Kadcyla and comparable efficacy to Enhertu in vivo studies. In pharmacokinetic studies, DX126-262 exhibited a clearance rate similar to Enhertu and enhanced stability compared to Kadcyla. Acute toxicity assays revealed reduced hepatotoxicity at doses of 75 and 150 mg/kg in mice, with improved tolerance. In repeated-dose toxicity studies, DX126-262 was well tolerated in rats at doses up to 200 mg/kg, with the highest non-severely toxic dose (HNSTD) established at 100 mg/kg. In cynomolgus monkeys, DX126-262 demonstrated superior hepatotoxic tolerability without significant bone marrow suppression, with an HNSTD of 30 mg/kg. DX126-262, incorporating Tub114, a novel Tubulysin B analog, effectively mitigates the inherent hepatotoxicity associated with Tubulysin compounds while maintaining strong antitumor efficacy. These findings suggest that DX126-262 could serve as a safer and more effective option for HER2-targeted cancer therapy, warranting further clinical studies to confirm its therapeutic potential.
Cerebrovascular ageing: how zebrafish can contribute to solving the puzzle
Authors: Malkinson Guy , Henriques Catarina M.
Published: February 2025

The mean life expectancy continues to increase world-wide. However, this extended lifespan trend is not accompanied by health span, or years of healthy life. Understanding the fundamental mechanisms responsible for the switch from health to morbidity with ageing are key to identifying potential therapeutic targets to decrease age-associated morbidity and increase years spent in good health. The leading cause of morbidity in Europe are diseases of the circulatory system and diseases of the nervous system and cognitive disorders are among the top-ten. Cerebrovascular ageing is therefore of particular importance as it links circulatory disease to brain functions, cognition, and behavior. Despite major progress in brain research and related technologies, little is known on how the cerebrovascular network changes its properties as ageing proceeds. Importantly, we do not understand why this is different in different individuals in what concerns rate of dysfunction and its downstream impact on brain function. Here we explore how the zebrafish has evolved as an attractive complementary ageing model and how it could provide key insights to understanding the mechanisms underlying cerebrovascular ageing and downstream consequences.
Micro-/nanobubble oxygenation irrigation enhances soil phosphorus availability and yield by altering soil bacterial community abundance and core microbial populations
Authors: Bian Qingyong , Dong Zhiduo , Zhao Yupeng , Feng Yaozu , Fu Yanbo , Wang Zhiguo , Zhu Jingquan , Ma Liang
Published: February 2025

Micro-/nanobubble oxygenation irrigation, as a novel irrigation technique, has been widely utilized to enhance soil phosphorus availability and maize yield. Nevertheless, currently, most of the studies remain unclear about the precise mechanism through which micro-/nanobubble oxygenation improves soil phosphorus availability and maize yield. Therefore, we established two irrigation methods, conventional irrigation (CF) and micro-/nanobubble oxygenation irrigation (MB), to investigate the combined effects on enzyme activity, microbial communities, and soil phosphorus availability in the rhizosphere soil of maize.The results showed that compared to the CF treatment, the MB treatment significantly increased available phosphorus content and alkaline phosphatase activity in maize rhizosphere soil by 21.3% and 15.4%, respectively. Furthermore, MB significantly influenced bacterial diversity in the maize rhizosphere soil but did not considerably affect fungal diversity. Specifically, MB regulated the microbial community structure in the maize rhizosphere by altering the relative abundances of the bacterial phylum Firmicutes and the fungal phyla Mucoromycota, Chytridiomycota, and Basidiomycota. In addition, MB reduced the complexity of the bacterial network while increasing the interaction density among bacterial species. Meanwhile, MB enhanced the complexity of the fungal network. Structural equation modeling indicated that MB primarily promoted soil alkaline phosphatase activity by regulating bacterial community diversity, thereby enhancing soil phosphorus availability. In conclusion, the application of micro-/nanobubble oxygenation irrigation enhances the activity of alkaline phosphatasein the soil by modulating the microbial community within the rhizosphere, thereby facilitating increased phosphorus availability in the rhizosphere of maize.
Interactions between N, P in the overlying water and flooding-induced decomposition of Cynodon dactylon in the water-level fluctuation zone
Authors: Huang Jitao , Luo Ze , Xu Zuopeng , Jiang Yanxue , Guo Jinsong
Published: February 2025

During flooding in the Water Level Fluctuation Zone (WLFZ), nutrient levels of nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) in the overlying water fluctuate due to soil nutrient release, impacting the decomposition of plants like Cynodon dactylon. However, limited research on the effects of these nutrient changes on plant nutrient release and water dynamics complicates accurate assessments of water quality impacts. This study used 8 water samples with varying initial nutrient levels to simulate N and P changes induced by WLFZ soil nutrients and examined the decomposition and nutrient dynamics of Cynodon dactylon. Results showed that flooding significantly increased initial levels of N and P, especially as particulate nitrogen (PN) and particulate phosphorus (PP), affecting both plant decomposition and nutrient dynamics in the water. After 60 days, Cynodon dactylon lost 47.97%-56.01% dry matter, 43.58%-54.48% total nitrogen (TN), and 14.28%-20.50% total phosphorus (TP). Initial PN and total dissolved nitrogen (TDN) promoted dry matter loss, PN and PP promoted TP loss, while PN and TDN inhibited TN loss. By day 60, no positive correlation was found between plant-released N and P and TN or TP in the overlying water. However, initial PP and PN levels were negatively correlated with TN and TP, indicating an inhibitory effect. Further analysis indicates that PN and PP released from the soil supported the formation of microbial aggregates, enhancing denitrification and phosphorus removal and thus improving water purification over time.
Factors influencing emotional driving: examining the impact of arousal on the interplay between age, personality, and driving behaviors
Authors: Shangguan Zhegong , Han Xiao , Mrhasli Younesse El , Lyu Nengchao , Tapus Adriana
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Drivers' emotions have been widely investigated in transportation due to their significant effects on driving behaviors and traffic accidents. Appraisal theory posits that emotional reactions are influenced by individuals' attitudes toward current circumstances and events, thereby shaping their driving attitudes and styles. However, In the study of emotional driving, research often focuses on the impact of single factors such as age, gender, and personality, while the interplay between these multiple factors is a challenge. This study aims to explore the impact of age, personality, and driving experience on driving behaviors, and to investigate the interaction effect between these factors, particularly the role of emotional arousal.

Method

Using moderated moderation and mediated moderation analyses, we examined how these individual factors interact and influence driving behaviors, including acceleration, speed stability, and steering performance. Data were collected from a driving simulation experiment involving 40 Chinese participants in various emotional states.

Results

Our findings revealed that higher-age drivers and experienced drivers displayed lower maximum acceleration and better speed stability. Extraversion significantly mediated the relationship between age and driving behaviors, with this relationship being moderated by arousal states. Additionally, Neuroticism moderated the relationship between driving experience and driving behaviors.

Conclusion

This study highlights how individual factors influence the trajectory of personality development in relation to driving behaviors. These findings have practical implications for improving traffic safety and driver education programs by incorporating emotional and personality-based interventions. Further long-term and individualized studies are needed to better understand these interactions and develop targeted interventions.
Meta-analysis examining the association between low platelet monoamine oxidase levels and Zuckerman's sensation seeking scale in a sex dependent manner
Authors: Winfield Jordan , Mendez Ian A. , Frietze Gabriel A.
Published: February 2025

Monoamine oxidase (MAO) is an enzyme in the brain responsible for breaking down neurotransmitters. MAO levels can be measured in humans by collecting blood platelets. Low platelet MAO levels in healthy individuals are associated with personality differences, such as increases in sensation seeking. In this meta-analysis, we investigated the association between low platelet MAO activity and sensation seeking behavior, as measured by Zuckerman's Sensation Seeking Scale (SSS). To identify studies to include in this meta-analysis, a preliminary database was produced by searching PsycInfo, Medline, PubMed, ProQuest, and ScienceDirect, from the time period of January 01, 1970 through August 01, 2022. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines were followed for study inclusion. Fourteen studies with a total of 24 correlations and 1,470 participants were included in the analyses. Across 24 independent effect sizes, the correlations ranged from −0.74 to 0.40. The Random Effects Model (REM) yielded a weighted average correlation of −0.22 (95% CI = −0.31, −0.13), indicating an inverse relationship where lower levels of MAO tend to be associated with higher levels of SSS. A subgroup analysis was used to examine the effects of gender. The REM yielded a weighted average correlation of −0.22 (95% CI = −0.33, −0.10) for the effect sizes of males, −0.22 (95% CI = −0.47, 0.06) for the effect sizes of females, and −0.23 (95% CI = −0.38, −0.06) for the effect sizes that included both males and females. The subgroup analysis did not reveal differences between males and females on the association between human blood platelet MAO levels and SSS. Our hypothesis that there is a negative association between MAO levels and SSS was supported. These findings have potential clinical implications suggesting that MAO platelet concentrations could be used as a potential biomarker for identifying maladaptive behaviors.
Identifying relevant EEG channels for subject-independent emotion recognition using attention network layers
Authors: Valderrama Camilo E. , Sheoran Anshul
Published: February 2025

Background

Electrical activity recorded with electroencephalography (EEG) enables the development of predictive models for emotion recognition. These models can be built using two approaches: subject-dependent and subject-independent. Although subject-independent models offer greater practical utility compared to subject-dependent models, they face challenges due to the significant variability of EEG signals between individuals.

Objective

One potential solution to enhance subject-independent approaches is to identify EEG channels that are consistently relevant across different individuals for predicting emotion. With the growing use of deep learning in emotion recognition, incorporating attention mechanisms can help uncover these shared predictive patterns.

Methods

This study explores this method by applying attention mechanism layers to identify EEG channels that are relevant for predicting emotions in three independent datasets (SEED, SEED-IV, and SEED-V).

Results

The model achieved average accuracies of 79.3% (CI: 76.0-82.5%), 69.5% (95% CI: 64.2-74.8%) and 60.7% (95% CI: 52.3-69.2%) on these datasets, revealing that EEG channels located along the head circumference, including Fp1, Fp2, F7, F8, T7, T8, P7, P8, O1, and O2, are the most crucial for emotion prediction.

Conclusion

These results emphasize the importance of capturing relevant electrical activity from these EEG channels, thereby facilitating the prediction of emotions evoked by audiovisual stimuli in subject-independent approaches.
Non-support from the immediate boss is associated with stress and unsafety at work
Authors: Iredahl Fredrik , Theodorsson Elvar , Jones Mike , Faresjö Tomas , Faresjö Åshild
Published: February 2025

Background

Work-related complaints are often caused by stress and increased mental strain. Support from your immediate boss and colleagues is crucial to buffer against the negative health effects of the psychosocial working environment.

Aim

The aim of this study was to investigate if support from the immediate boss and colleagues was associated with biological stress levels, unsafety at work, and other work-related conditions.

Methods

Data derives from a subsample of the SCAPIS study, a major Swedish prospective population-based study. In this subsample, a total of N = 5 058 middle-aged persons (50-64 years) from the general population participated; of these, 68.4% (N = 3 462 individuals) provided hair samples. Questionnaires included socio-demographic and self-reports of occupation, stress, and health status. The demand and control questionnaires were used. A biomarker of long-term stress, hair cortisol concentrations (HCC), was also applied.

Results

In this studied cohort, 9.1 % reported a lack of support from their immediate boss, while 90.9% reported that they did get support at work. Significantly more women (p < 0.001) reported non-support. Those with support or not did not differ in terms of age, education, civil status, smoking, or ethnicity. Those with non-support reported a higher extent (p < 0.001) of lower perceived health. The risk for hypertension and high cholesterol was increased by 28 %, respectively, 13 % being in the non-support group. The main findings were associations between lack of support and feelings of unsafety at work (p < 0.001), higher long-term cortisol levels (p < 0.009), lack of support from colleagues (p < 0.001), and feelings of dejected/sad (p < 0.001) and high work pace (p = 0.03).

Conclusion

Individuals who did not have the necessary support from their immediate boss and colleagues reported they felt more insecure at work and had higher biological long-term stress. In workplace health promotion, an awareness of the link between social support at work and health could be an important component.
Working experiences of remote interpreters in health care settings—insights from Austria and Germany
Authors: Klomfar Sophie , Teufel Anna , Gerger Gernot , Kletečka-Pulker Maria , Doppler Klara , Eitenberger Magdalena , Völkl-Kernstock Sabine
Published: February 2025

Background

The rise in linguistically diverse patient populations has introduced significant challenges in healthcare due to language barriers. Video Remote Interpreting (VRI) has emerged as a cost-effective solution in healthcare settings. However, its impact on interpreters, particularly the specific enabling and hindering factors from their point of view remains underexplored. For example, in some studies, VRI interpreters report higher stress and job dissatisfaction. We hypothesize that interpreters’ work experience and supervision attendance mitigate negative effects. We tested this hypothesis using a quantitative approach. Additionally, we analyzed qualitative data to uncover more enabling and hindering factors.

Methods

A sample of 87 interpreters working in Austria and Germany was included in this multi-methods study. Stress, job dissatisfaction, work experience, and supervision were analyzed using correlations and group comparisons. Responses to open-ended questions were analyzed using thematic content analysis to identify enabling and hindering factors, with network analysis exploring their interconnections.

Results

Longer work experience correlated with lower stress. Supervision had no significant effect on stress or job satisfaction. Thematic content analysis identified 21 factors affecting VRI: While VRI enhances efficiency and emotional distance, interpreters face technical problems and difficulties arising from the lack of physical presence. Network analysis confirmed that VRI settings are characterized by a close interplay between these enabling and hindering factors.

Discussion

Strategies for using VRI can be derived from these data. VRI is an efficient alternative to in-person interpreting, with challenges that can be mitigated. Training healthcare personnel in handling VRI and optimizing VRI conditions can contribute to better healthcare outcomes.
War-related eye trauma: a study of civilian and military cases from Ukraine's ongoing conflict
Authors: Jonak Kamil , Matysiak Magdalena , Choragiewicz Tomasz , Nowakowska Dominika , Zimenkovsky Andriy , Shybinskyi Volodymyr , Sekh Myroslawa , Karpiński Robert , Podkowiński Arkadiusz , Rejdak Robert
Published: February 2025

Forecasts indicate a substantial increase in the occurrence of eye injuries in future armed conflicts. The Russian invasion of Ukraine, launched in February 2022, caused numerous eye injuries among civilians as well as military personnel, generating a serious epidemiological threat related to vision loss. The main goal of this study was to analyze different eye traumas in the Ukrainian population caused by hostilities, which could allow for a relative estimate of the occurrence of long-term consequences for the health care system, such as loss of vision in a large group of citizens. To assess the scale and types of eye injuries, we analyzed around 500 eye images from 470 patients who were selected because they had sustained eye injuries and were treated at a single hospital. The findings reveal that the most prevalent types of injuries were macular disorders, accounting for 49% of cases, retinal vascular changes at 30.2%, and optic nerve disorders at 22.4%. Additionally, we observed different percentages of eye injuries in the military personnel group compared to civilians. These results highlight the significant impact of eye injuries caused by war operations on the health care system. However, further research and collaborative efforts are needed to fully assess the epidemiological burden and to inform the development of effective treatment and prevention strategies.
HPRS: hierarchical potential-based reward shaping from task specifications
Authors: Berducci Luigi , Aguilar Edgar A. , Ničković Dejan , Grosu Radu
Published: February 2025

The automatic synthesis of policies for robotics systems through reinforcement learning relies upon, and is intimately guided by, a reward signal. Consequently, this signal should faithfully reflect the designer’s intentions, which are often expressed as a collection of high-level requirements. Several works have been developing automated reward definitions from formal requirements, but they show limitations in producing a signal which is both effective in training and able to fulfill multiple heterogeneous requirements. In this paper, we define a task as a partially ordered set of safety, target, and comfort requirements and introduce an automated methodology to enforce a natural order among requirements into the reward signal. We perform this by automatically translating the requirements into a sum of safety, target, and comfort rewards, where the target reward is a function of the safety reward and the comfort reward is a function of the safety and target rewards. Using a potential-based formulation, we enhance sparse to dense rewards and formally prove this to maintain policy optimality. We call our novel approach hierarchical, potential-based reward shaping (HPRS). Our experiments on eight robotics benchmarks demonstrate that HPRS is able to generate policies satisfying complex hierarchical requirements. Moreover, compared with the state of the art, HPRS achieves faster convergence and superior performance with respect to the rank-preserving policy-assessment metric. By automatically balancing competing requirements, HPRS produces task-satisfying policies with improved comfort and without manual parameter tuning. Through ablation studies, we analyze the impact of individual requirement classes on emergent behavior. Our experiments show that HPRS benefits from comfort requirements when aligned with the target and safety and ignores them when in conflict with the safety or target requirements. Finally, we validate the practical usability of HPRS in real-world robotics applications, including two sim-to-real experiments using F1TENTH vehicles. These experiments show that a hierarchical design of task specifications facilitates the sim-to-real transfer without any domain adaptation.
Gait kinematics at trot before and after repeated ridden exercise tests in young Friesian stallions during a fatiguing 10-week training program
Authors: Siegers Esther W. , Parmentier Jeanne I. M. , Sloet van Oldruitenborgh-Oosterbaan Marianne M. , Munsters Carolien C. B. M. , Serra Bragança Filipe M.
Published: February 2025

Background

Appropriate training is essential for equine athletes to improve fitness and ensure welfare. Young Friesian stallions must complete a 10-week training program for acceptance as breeding stallions. Earlier, this training program was demonstrated to induce overtraining.

Objectives

To evaluate how this training program affects stallions’ trot locomotion variables in relation to fatigue.

Study design

Prospective analytical study.

Methods

3 or 4 years-old (n = 16) Friesian stallions performed three ridden indoor standardized exercise tests (SETs) in week-1 (SET-I; n = 15), week-6 (SET-II; n = 11) and week-10 (SET-III; n = 4), measuring heart rate (bpm) and lactate concentration (LA, mmol/L). Before and after each SET, stallions’ locomotion was measured with seven inertial sensors (EquiMoves, 200 Hz) during in-hand trot on a straight line. Stride characteristics, limb angular changes, and upper body kinematics were calculated. The within-measurement coefficient of variation (CV) was calculated for all parameters. Linear mixed models were used to analyze gait variables related to SET, pre-or post-SET and a peak LA ≥4 mmol/L during SETs.

Results

Horses showed individual responses in gait kinematics to moderate fatigue. The range of motion of the withers (ROMwithers) increased post SET-II and SET-III compared to post SET-I. In horses reaching LA ≥ 4 mmol/L, CV increased post SETs for several stride characteristics and upper body asymmetry. Upper body vertical movement asymmetry was above the described reference ranges in 69% of the horses.

Main limitations

Number of horses used and only four horses managed to complete the 10-week training program as breeding stallions.

Conclusion

The young Friesian stallions showed individually different responses in absolute gait kinematics after exercise and during an intense training program. The increased ROMwithers and CV of stride characteristics after SETs suggest an acute effect of fatigue on the locomotion pattern. Further investigation is warranted for the pronounced upper body movement asymmetry related to published asymmetry reference values.
Characterization of Neopestalotiopsis Species Associated with Strawberry Crown Rot in Italy
Authors: Dardani Greta , Martino Ilaria , Aloi Francesco , Carli Cristiano , Giordano Roberto , Spadaro Davide , Guarnaccia Vladimiro
Published: February 2025

Different Pestalotiopsis-like species have been reported in strawberry worldwide, as agents of leaf spot, root rot, and crown rot. The identification of Pestalotiopsis-like fungi is based on both molecular and morphological analyses to discriminate between species and clarify phylogenetic relationships. Recent studies have provided robust multi-locus analyses, which reclassified most Pestalotiopsis-like isolates associated with strawberry root and crown rot diseases as Neopestalotiopsis spp. Numerous disease outbreaks have been observed in strawberry fields in Italy in recent years, showing that Neopestalotiopsis is an emerging pathogen. A survey was conducted in Northern Italy during 2022–2023 to investigate the diversity and distribution of Neopestalotiopsis species. Morphological and phylogenetic characterization, based on ITS, tef1 and tub2, led to the identification of four species: Neopestalotiopsis rosae, N. iranensis, N. hispanica (syn. vaccinii) and N. scalabiensis. Based on our results from multi-locus phylogenetic analysis, N. hispanica and N. vaccinii were grouped in the same cluster; thus, they were confirmed to be the same species. Pathogenicity tests with representative isolates of each species were conducted on strawberry ‘Portola’ transplants. All isolates were shown to be wound pathogens in strawberry, causing crown rot, and were successfully re-isolated. Neopestalotiopsis rosae was confirmed to be the most dominant and virulent species associated with these symptoms, as well as the most dominant among the obtained isolates. To the best of our knowledge, this work represents the first report of N. scalabiensis being associated with the crown rot of strawberry in Italy and the first report of N. iranensis in association with the crown rot of strawberry worldwide.
MPG-YOLO: Enoki Mushroom Precision Grasping with Segmentation and Pulse Mapping
Authors: Xie Limin , Jing Jun , Wu Haoyu , Kang Qinguan , Zhao Yiwei , Ye Dapeng
Published: February 2025

The flatness of the cut surface in enoki mushrooms (Flammulina filiformis Z.W. Ge, X.B. Liu & Zhu L. Yang) is a key factor in quality classification. However, conventional automatic cutting equipment struggles with deformation issues due to its inability to adjust the grasping force based on individual mushroom sizes. To address this, we propose an improved method that integrates visual feedback to dynamically adjust the execution end, enhancing cut precision. Our approach enhances YOLOv8n-seg with Star Net, SPPECAN (a reconstructed SPPF with efficient channel attention), and C2fDStar (C2f with Star Net and deformable convolution) to improve feature extraction while reducing computational complexity and feature loss. Additionally, we introduce a mask ownership judgment and merging optimization algorithm to correct positional offsets, internal disconnections, and boundary instabilities in grasping area predictions. Based on this, we optimize grasping parameters using an improved centroid-based region width measurement and establish a region width-to-PWM mapping model for the precise conversion from visual data to gripper control. Experiments in real-situation settings demonstrate the effectiveness of our method, achieving a mean average precision (mAP50:95) of 0.743 for grasping area segmentation, a 4.5% improvement over YOLOv8, with an average detection speed of 10.3 ms and a target width measurement error of only 0.14%. The proposed mapping relationship enables adaptive end-effector control, resulting in a 96% grasping success rate and a 98% qualified cutting surface rate. These results confirm the feasibility of our approach and provide a strong technical foundation for the intelligent automation of enoki mushroom cutting systems.
Hybrid Machine Learning and Deep Learning Approaches for Insult Detection in Roman Urdu Text
Authors: Hussain Nisar , Qasim Amna , Mehak Gull , Kolesnikova Olga , Gelbukh Alexander , Sidorov Grigori
Published: February 2025

Thisstudy introduces a new model for detecting insults in Roman Urdu, filling an important gap in natural language processing (NLP) for low-resource languages. The transliterated nature of Roman Urdu also poses specific challenges from a computational linguistics perspective, including non-standardized grammar, variation in spellings for the same word, and high levels of code-mixing with English, which together make automated insult detection for Roman Urdu a highly complex problem. To address these problems, we created a large-scale dataset with 46,045 labeled comments from social media websites such as Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube. This is the first dataset for insult detection for Roman Urdu that was created and annotated with insulting and non-insulting content. Advanced preprocessing methods such as text cleaning, text normalization, and tokenization are used in the study, as well as feature extraction using TF–IDF through unigram (Uni), bigram (Bi), trigram (Tri), and their unions: Uni+Bi+Trigram. We compared ten machine learning algorithms (logistic regression, support vector machines, random forest, gradient boosting, AdaBoost, and XGBoost) and three deep learning topologies (CNN, LSTM, and Bi-LSTM). Different models were compared, and ensemble ones were proven to give the highest F1-scores, reaching 97.79%, 97.78%, and 95.25%, respectively, for AdaBoost, decision tree, TF–IDF, and Uni+Bi+Trigram configurations. Deeper learning models also performed on par, with CNN achieving an F1-score of 97.01%. Overall, the results highlight the utility of n-gram features and the combination of robust classifiers in detecting insults. This study makes strides in improving NLP for Roman Urdu, yet further research has established the foundation of pre-trained transformers and hybrid approaches; this could overcome existing systems and platform limitations. This study has conscious implications, mainly on the construction of automated moderation tools to achieve safer online spaces, especially for South Asian social media websites.
The Impact of Antibiotic Resistance in Childhood Campylobacter Infections Before and After the COVID-19 Pandemic in the Southeast Region of Romania
Authors: Chiurtu Cristina , Mocanu Elena , Nitu Bogdan Florentin , Iancu Ana Maria , Mihai Cristina Maria , Cambrea Mara Andreea , Mihai Raluca , Mavrodin Mihaela , Pînzaru Anca Daniela , Stoicescu Ramona Mihaela
Published: February 2025

The world has changed forever as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Antimicrobial resistance is a primary global health concern that places a significant financial and health burden on nations. Patients with Campylobacter-caused infections were the subject of the retrospective investigation. The data show that children aged 1–6 are the most commonly affected by Campylobacter enteritis. Resistance levels fluctuated over the course of the two periods. Nine isolates were sensitive to macrolides, and only one was responsive to tetracycline, which indicated inadequate sensitivity across all classes throughout the pandemic. This pattern raises serious concerns about the potential impact on public health. Tetracyclines and fluoroquinolones rank highest in terms of bacterial resistance. Regardless of the species, macrolides remain a practical and sufficient treatment for Campylobacter enteritis. Reassurance is still provided by much lower numbers in the post-pandemic period. There is no evidence to support the alarming claims made in the international literature about macrolides in Romania.
Agri-Food Wastes as Natural Source of Bioactive Antioxidants—Third Edition
Authors: Hrelia Silvana , Barbalace Maria Cristina , Angeloni Cristina
Published: February 2025

The current food systems are now unsustainable due to population growth, globalization, and climate change, contributing to environmental degradation and social inequalities [...]
Wound Dressing Materials: Bridging Material Science and Clinical Practice
Authors: Ferraz Maria Pia
Published: February 2025

Wound management presents a significant clinical challenge due to the rising prevalence of chronic wounds caused by conditions such as venous insufficiency, diabetes, and obesity, alongside acute injuries and surgical wounds. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of key materials used in wound dressings, contextualizing their origin, chemical structure, and intrinsic properties while emphasizing their roles in promoting wound healing. Particular attention is given to materials’ capacity to stimulate regeneration and incorporate substances such as antimicrobial agents and growth factors to enhance functionality. Additionally, this review examines antimicrobial dressings as a critical tool for controlling bioburden and enhancing healing, detailing their mechanisms of action, advantages, and limitations. By addressing strategies for hydrogel application and the effectiveness of both natural and synthetic polymers, this analysis bridges the gap between material science and clinical practice. This review aims to analyze the development of cost-effective, environmentally friendly, and versatile wound dressings that meet diverse clinical needs. This synthesis of material science and antimicrobial strategies offers a foundational resource for advancing wound care solutions.
Spatial Evolution Analysis of Tailings Flow from Tailings Dam Failure Based on MacCormack-TVD
Authors: Ma Lei , Zhang Chao , Ma Changkun , Li Xueting
Published: February 2025

Adopting an appropriate method to analyze the spatial evolution process of tailings flow after tailings dam failure can provide a rational assessment of the inundation range and evaluate the subsequent disaster. Simultaneously, it can offer a foundation for tailings pond construction and safety management. This paper, focusing on a specific iron mine in Xiagao, Guangdong, establishes a three-dimensional simulation of the tailings pond based on the design drawings of the raised tailings pond. Utilizing the depth integral method as the theoretical basis, this research references parameter values obtained through model experiments for numerical simulation. Through the numerical simulation method, the study simulates the disaster range, flow, and spatial state of the tailings flow after a dam break. The tailings flow velocity and the depth of the flow in the affected areas are derived, demonstrating the disasters resulting from dam failure. Moreover, the feasibility of raising the tailings dam is evaluated. The assessment extends to the damage risk of tailings dam failure to critical downstream facilities and provides disaster prevention and control suggestions for high-risk situations. This study ultimately offers technical support for the prevention and control of tailings dam failure accidents and the advancement of mine safety production.