bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Beauveria bassiana delivered through a cellulose-based hydrogel is effective against the red poultry mite, Dermanyssus gallinae
Authors: Siddique Ifra , Camarda Antonio , Friuli Marco , Rhimi Wafa , Circella Elena , Pugliese Nicola , Demitri Christian , Benelli Giovanni , Otranto Domenico , Cafarchia Claudia
Published: February 2025

Though the entomopathogenic fungus Beauveria bassiana has shown to be efficacious for managing Dermanyssus gallinae infestations, its delivery as liquid formulation poses concerns related to environmental stability and efficacy. To overcome such concerns, here we proposed a hydrogel matrix based on hydroxyethyl-cellulose (HEC) for delivering B. bassiana to control D. gallinae. Nymph and adult mites were exposed to a hydrogel matrix or filter papers containing B. bassiana (107 conidia/mL), with and without a pre-incubation period of 4 days at 25 °C (treated groups). As control groups, mites were exposed to hydrogel matrix or filter papers with sterile distilled water. Results showed higher mortality of all stages of D. gallinae in treated groups compared to respective control groups. The LT50 and LT90 estimated on D. gallinae were lower in treated groups (LT50 ≤ 9.5 days for adults; and LT50 ≤ 10.7 days for nymphs; LT90 ≤ 14.9 for adults; LT90 ≤ 17.9 days for nymphs) than in control groups (LT5 0 ≥14.9 days for adults, LT50 > 19 days for nymphs; LT90 > 20 days for adults and nymphs). Pre-incubation significantly reduced LT50 and LT90 with respect to other treated groups. Overall, our study outlined that the conidial suspension of B. bassiana in hydrogel is efficacious against both nymphs and adults of D. gallinae. The pre-incubation of B. bassiana in the HEC enhanced its efficacy. Thus, delivering B. bassiana through HEC-based hydrogel matrix may represent an effective and sustainable solution for managing D. gallinae infestations in the poultry industry.
Compound-based approach for large scale seismic vulnerability assessment: application to the Garfagnana area in Tuscany
Authors: Cardinali Vieri , Di Rienzo Elisabetta , Tanganelli Marco , De Stefano Mario
Published: February 2025

In this paper, a rapid procedure for vulnerability and risk analysis at urban scale is presented and validated with respect to a homogeneous territorial area. The methodology is aimed at defining fast evaluations by taking advantage of a division of the territory into compounds based on historical evolution and development of the urban clusters. A compound-based taxonomy realized according to the CARTIS methodology has been adopted as exposure model. The vulnerability models have been validated with respect of recent seismic events for both masonry and RC buildings. Hence, a modified macroseismic vulnerability model for compound evaluations has been used. The simplified procedure has been evaluated with respect to a unit-based analysis where every structural unit has been specifically investigated through a macroseismic approach. The comparisons between the compound-based (CB) and the building-by-building (BB) evaluation are obtained in terms of damage scenarios through binomial distributions. The procedure has been validated by assessing two distinct urban centers located in the Garfagnana area, Tuscany (Italy). The results show that the simplified procedure matches the forecasted damage states, limiting the required information and the time of the investigation. The evaluation has been finally extended to the territorial area of Garfagnana and part of the Lunigiana, analyzing a total of 17 municipalities where the CARTIS taxonomy is available. Herein, fragility curves have been derived according to unified classes for a territorial evaluation. The research proves the effectiveness of the procedure in evaluating the seismic vulnerability of large areas, presenting a rapid tool useful for administrators and stakeholders in the management of urban stock.
Seismic behavior of cold-formed steel framed multi-panel and two-story shear walls
Authors: Pehlivan Baris Mert , Baran Eray , Topkaya Cem
Published: February 2025

This paper presents an experimental investigation on the seismic behavior of cold-formed steel (CFS) shear wall systems. Two sets of cyclic lateral loading tests were conducted on OSB sheathed CFS shear wall specimens. The first part of the study deals with walls constructed by connecting multiple individual wall panels with different connection methods. Focus of the second part is the lateral load response of two-story shear walls with different framing details between wall panels in neighboring floors. In both parts, the behavior of wall panels was examined with combinations of one side sheathing and a coarse fastener layout, as well as double-side sheathing and a dense fastener layout. For the multi-panel shear walls, eight full-scale specimens were tested, featuring varying configurations of CFS framing and OSB sheathing. The experiments indicate that the use of different connection details between individual wall segments does not cause any appreciable difference in wall response. Significant excessive base slip was observed in longer walls with double-side sheathing due to increased shear force demand at the base, highlighting the importance of adequate fastener layout. In the investigation of two-story shear walls, eight specimens were tested. Platform and ledger framing details were explored, each with different methods of connecting wall panels between floors. The results demonstrated the influence of framing detail on the overall behavior and failure mechanisms of the shear walls. Notably, the presence of additional OSB sheathing panels between floors enhanced the load capacity and stiffness of the specimens, mitigating damage to CFS members within the connection region. Based on the experimental findings, practical recommendations were presented for multi-panel walls and interaction between wall panels and floor support system in multi-story CFS construction.
Layer-by-layer modification of cellulose aerogels to optimize capillary spreading rates and liquid holding capacity
Authors: Zou Fangxin , Östmans Rebecca , Wågberg Lars
Published: February 2025

Due to their excellent wetting and liquid-spreading properties, cellulose-based aerogels have shown great potential as absorbent materials in many applications. However, there is still a very limited understanding of how the aerogels should be tailored to optimize liquid spreading and liquid storage properties. The present work focuses on characterizing liquid spreading at short contact times and tailoring the surfaces within the aerogel to increase the spreading properties. Aerogels from periodate oxidized cellulose nano fibrils (CNFs) were freeze-linked to attain wet stability. Subsequently, they were modified with the layer-by-layer (LbL) assembly method using poly(diallyldimethylammonium chloride) (PDADMAC) and well-defined SiO2 nanoparticles to change their surface properties. The morphology of the untreated and treated aerogels, as determined from SEM images, indicates a complete surface coverage of PDADMAC/SiO2 bilayers on the inner surfaces of CNF aerogels, showing that the LbL-treatment can be used to tailor the aerogel, i.e. to increase the specific surface area of the aerogel, by changing the number of bilayers. It has also been shown that the horizontal liquid spreading rate increases significantly after surface modification. In addition, a theoretical analysis of the spreading results indicates that this is due to the increase in the specific surface area of the surface-modified aerogels. Moreover, the spreading rate can be gradually tailored by changing the number of bilayers and the dimensions of the nanoparticles. Furthermore, we provide a new method to calculate the specific surface area of aerogel materials by combining the experimentally determined liquid spreading rate and a version of the well-known Kozeny–Carman equation.
Review on climate change impacts on the Water-Energy-Food-Ecosystems (WEFE) Nexus in the North-Eastern Italian Alps
Authors: Napoli Anna , Matiu Michael , Laiti Lavinia , Barbiero Roberto , Bellin Alberto , Zardi Dino , Majone Bruno
Published: February 2025

Mountains, such as the Trentino region in the North-Eastern Italian Alps, are highly vulnerable to climate change. Their intricate topography amplifies the interaction between local atmospheric processes and regional-scale dynamics, adding complexity to the assessment of climate impacts. To devise effective adaptation strategies, it is crucial to thoroughly understand the environmental and socio-economic sectors most affected in these distinctive mountain landscapes. This study explores the most significant documented impacts of climate change on the sectors within the Water-Energy-Food-Ecosystems (WEFE) Nexus in Trentino. It highlights their interconnections and the critical knowledge gaps that must be addressed to comprehensively understand the Nexus. The main aim is to provide a solid scientific basis for identifying high-priority climate risks in the region and to craft the most appropriate adaptation strategies. Our findings reveal that regarding individual sectors in Trentino, most studies focus on Ecosystems, followed by Water and Food. The least studied sector is Energy. Regarding the NEXUS, the Water Sector exhibits the majority of interconnections with other components. While the impacts of climate change on individual sectors have been analyzed to varying degrees, the strong interconnections between these sectors remain largely unexplored with important missing interconnections mainly between Energy and Food, and Energy and Ecosystems, as well as a comprehensive consideration of the impacts of energy on water and food on ecosystems.
Overcoming Bias in ECSE by Incorporating Funds of Knowledge in Teacher Preparation
Authors: Bhattashali Ankita , Cheatham Gregory A. , Lickvar-Armstrong Chavis , Oh Jisun R. , Kim Gospel
Published: February 2025

Child developmental milestones are deeply rooted in Western developmental theory and, therefore, cannot be assumed to generalize to culturally and racially minoritized (CRM) children and families, including those who are from international backgrounds. When developmental milestones are exclusively used to assess children’s development and make decisions about child goals, Early Childhood Education (ECE) and Early Childhood Special Education (ECSE) practitioners may perpetuate unconscious bias by favoring Western expectations of child development. This can have negative consequences for children and families who are CRM. For example, children can be misdiagnosed with delays and continuing disproportionality in ECSE. To address this problem, we propose strategies to prepare ECE/ECSE preservice teachers to counter biases towards children from CRM backgrounds. In this conceptual paper with an emphasis on practical strategies, we provide an overarching framework of Funds of Knowledge [FoK; Esteban-Guitart and Moll, Cult Psychol 20(1):31–48, 2014] that can be incorporated into a preservice teacher preparation program. Next, we propose the following practical strategies aligned with FoK, which can be included in preservice teacher education: (1) assigning mentor families from CRM backgrounds to support preservice teachers learning about developing meaningful partnerships with families and (2) embedding opportunities for social identity mapping (Jacobson and Mustafa, Int J Qual Methods 18:1–12, 2019), a practice that prompts preservice teachers to reflect on their assumptions and biases.
Laboratory study of bed shear stress in gradually varied flow over a sudden change in bed roughness
Authors: Jamil Muhammad Farrukh , Ting Francis C. K. , Kafle Monika
Published: February 2025

The evolution of bed shear stress in open-channel flow due to a sudden change in bed roughness was investigated experimentally for rough-to-smooth (RTS) and smooth-to-rough (STR) transitions. The velocity field was measured in the longitudinal-vertical plane from upstream to downstream using a Particle Image Velocimetry system. The bed shear stress was determined from the measured velocity profile and water depth using various methods. It was found that the variation of bed shear stress in gradually varied flow through a roughness transition was influenced by both flow depth and bottom roughness. In both RTS and STR transitions, the bed shear stress adjusted to the new bed condition almost immediately even though the velocity profile away from the bed was still evolving, but unlike external and close-conduit flows the bed shear stress in open-channel flows continued to evolve until the flow depth was uniform. It is shown that the evolution of bed shear stress in a STR transition is dependent on the choice of the displacement height on the rough bed, which affects the mixing length used to derive the logarithmic velocity profile and equivalent roughness. Bed shear stress variation consistent with published data was obtained when the

$${k}_{s}/{d}_{90}$$

k
s

/

d
90

ratio was determined as a function of the

$$h/{d}_{90}$$

h
/

d
90

ratio, where

$${k}_{s}$$

k
s

is the equivalent roughness height,

$$h$$

h

is the flow depth, and

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d
90

is the grain diameter with 90% of finer particles.
Thin-Slice Accuracy Depends on the Wisdom of Crowds: Aggregate Judgments Outperform Individual Judgments when Inferring Athletic Performance Based on Nonverbal Behavior
Authors: Furley Philip , Wunderlich Fabian , Großhaus Laura , Schweizer Geoffrey
Published: February 2025

The present paper aims to resolve ambiguous findings on the accuracy or inaccuracy of human judgments based on sparse information by arguing that accurate thin-slice judgments can be understood as driven by the wisdom of the crowd. To test this hypothesis, participants estimated the performance of track and field athletes in different competitions based on thin slices of pre- and post-performance nonverbal behavior. Results suggest that averaged judgments based on thin slices of athletes’ nonverbal behavior (NVB) are correlated with actual performance and that averaged judgments are better than individual judgments, thus validating the wisdom of the crowd hypothesis. Taken together, the present paper suggests that understanding thin-slice judgments from a wisdom of the crowd perspective has the potential to resolve the apparent contradiction regarding the accuracy or inaccuracy of human judgments. Furthermore, the paper highlights the potential of averaged thin-slice judgments of naturally occurring NVB as an addition to resource consuming coding procedures.
Persons, Unique Value and Avatars
Authors: Sweeney Paula
Published: February 2025

An individual human has value partly in virtue of their uniqueness. Personal avatar technology—technology which creates a digital replication of a real person—appears to have the potential to undermine that value. Here I explore if and how avatars might make humans less valuable by undermining the value that a human gains from being unique. Ultimately, I conclude that, while avatars cannot make humans no longer unique, they could significantly undermine the value that we place on human uniqueness. First, I argue that a qualitative model of uniqueness cannot account for the unique value that a person has. This leads to the significant and surprising claim that necessarily unique properties of humans cannot accommodate the value arising from human uniqueness: humans have unique value in virtue of being contingently irreplaceable. I explore how the use of personal avatars might undermine or even destroy that value. Finally, I consider further applications of the theory of unique human value, including how it might explain and accommodate our attachment to personal avatars themselves.
Prevalence of the Cladosporium cladosporioides Species Complex in the Mycelia-Like Skin Crusts of Migratory Yellow-Throated Buntings (Emberiza elegans) in Korea
Authors: Lee Seung-Kyung , Park Se-Young , Kang Hwa-Yeon , Han Se-Jeong , Nam Hyun-Young , Choi Chang-Yong , Yamamoto Naomichi
Published: February 2025

Understanding the ecological characteristics and environmental factors of migratory songbirds is essential for their conservation as well as pathogen management that may cross ecological and political boundaries. In this study, we conducted a bird trapping and banding survey and report on fungal DNA detected from birds with putative fungal skin infections. We analyzed the mycobiome of mycelia-like skin crusts of the yellow-throated bunting (Emberiza elegans), a common migratory songbird with declining population in Korea, using DNA metabarcoding targeting the internal transcribed spacer 1 (ITS1) region, the actin (ACT) gene, and the translation elongation factor 1 − α (TEF) gene. Our analysis revealed that Cladosporium was the predominant genus (~ 60% sequence reads) in fungal mycelia-like tissues on the skins of yellow-throated buntings and detected a large number of DNA sequences similar to those of species belonging to the Cladosporium cladosporioides species complex. This is the first study to report possible infection in buntings by Cladosporium, including species known to infect humans and other animals. Further research on the causal relationship between birds and fungi is needed for pathogen management and conservation of Asian songbirds along the migration flyway.
Artificial Intelligence Tools in Misinformation Management during Natural Disasters
Authors: Komendantova Nadejda , Erokhin Dmitry
Published: February 2025

Ensuring accurate information during natural disasters is vital for effective emergency response and public safety. Disasters like earthquakes and hurricanes often trigger misinformation, complicating response efforts and endangering lives. Historical events, such as Hurricane Katrina and the COVID-19 pandemic, illustrate the harmful impact of false information. Artificial intelligence (AI), with technologies like natural language processing and machine learning, offers promising solutions for detecting and mitigating misinformation. This paper explores AI’s role in managing misinformation during disasters, highlighting its potential to improve disaster response, enhance public trust, and strengthen community resilience.
Realistic Evaluation of Deep Active Learning for Image Classification and Semantic Segmentation
Authors: Mittal Sudhanshu , Niemeijer Joshua , Çiçek Özgün , Tatarchenko Maxim , Ehrhardt Jan , Schäfer Jörg P. , Handels Heinz , Brox Thomas
Published: February 2025

Active learning aims to reduce the high labeling cost involved in training machine learning models on large datasets by efficiently labeling only the most informative samples. Recently, deep active learning has shown success on various tasks. However, the conventional evaluation schemes are either incomplete or below par. This study critically assesses various active learning approaches, identifying key factors essential for choosing the most effective active learning method. It includes a comprehensive guide to obtain the best performance for each case, in image classification and semantic segmentation. For image classification, the AL methods improve by a large-margin when integrated with data augmentation and semi-supervised learning, but barely perform better than the random baseline. In this work, we evaluate them under more realistic settings and propose a more suitable evaluation protocol. For semantic segmentation, previous academic studies focused on diverse datasets with substantial annotation resources. In contrast, data collected in many driving scenarios is highly redundant, and most medical applications are subject to very constrained annotation budgets. The study evaluates active learning techniques under various conditions including data redundancy, the use of semi-supervised learning, and differing annotation budgets. As an outcome of our study, we provide a comprehensive usage guide to obtain the best performance for each case.
Trust and Motivation in High-Risk Volunteering: An Empirical Study of Norwegian Search-and-Rescue Volunteers
Authors: Wollebæk Dag
Published: February 2025

Volunteering in emergency situations can involve the risk of injury. Overcoming such risks may motivate some volunteers, but may also deter those who are risk-averse. This presents a challenge, as recruiting and engaging volunteers with different risk attitudes is important to ensure response capacity and a balanced organizational culture. This cross-sectional study uses data from online surveys of search-and-rescue (SAR) volunteers (n = 1,659) and the general population (n = 3,185) in Norway to examine whether trust moderates a negative relationship between risk aversion and motivation in high-risk volunteering. Results from OLS regressions show that SAR volunteers have higher levels of risk propensity (B = 0.25, p < 0.001), trust (B = 1.47, p < 0.001) and felt trust (B = 1.36, p < 0.001) than other volunteers. Risk-averse volunteers report lower motivation and participation, but trust mitigates much of the negative impact (interaction term B = −0.10, p < 0.01). These findings underline the importance of strong cultures of trust within SAR volunteer teams.
Spatial distribution of nicotine concentrations in Berlin’s surface waters and their potential sources
Authors: Venohr Markus , Beusch Christine , Goldhammer Tobias , Nguyen Hanh Hong , Podschun Simone , Schmalsch Claudia , Wolter Christian
Published: February 2025

Nicotine is a ubiquitous emergent pollutant that primarily enters the environment through inappropriate disposal of cigarette butts. In a 7-week monitoring program, we collected 56 water samples from 14 lakes, 9 ponds, 9 rivers, 8 canals, and 2 canalized brooks in Berlin. Nicotine was detected in all investigated surface waters. Observed concentrations ranged between 7 ng/l and 1469 ng/l (mean 73 ng/l, median 28 ng/l). Rainy weather conditions generally led to an increase in nicotine concentrations, particularly in canals where concentrations were up to 16 times higher after rain events. For water bodies receiving sewer discharge, mean nicotine concentrations were positively related to population density, while concentrations in surface waters without sewer connections were more related to the presence of public transport stops or recreational areas. Our results highlight the high spatiotemporal variability of nicotine concentrations in urban surface waters. We recommend a temporary systematic daily or event-based monitoring of nicotine concentrations to support our findings and to better understand and quantify emission sources and concentration decay phases. This would improve our still incomplete knowledge about ecological impacts arising from long-term below-lethal nicotine concentrations in urban surface waters.
Weighted embedding and outlier detection of metric space data
Authors: Heinonen Lauri , Nyberg Henri , Virta Joni
Published: February 2025

This work discusses weighted kernel point projection (WKPP), a new method for embedding metric space or kernel data. WKPP is based on an iteratively weighted generalization of multidimensional scaling and kernel principal component analysis, and one of its main uses is outlier detection. After a detailed derivation of the method and its algorithm, we give theoretical guarantees regarding its convergence and outlier detection capabilities. Additionally, as one of our mathematical contributions, we give a novel characterization of kernelizability, connecting it also to the classical kernel literature. In our empirical examples, WKPP is benchmarked with respect to several competing outlier detection methods, using various different datasets. The obtained results show that WKPP is computationally fast, while simultaneously achieving performance comparable to state-of-the-art methods.
Flow cytometry and cytological studies reveal consecutive rounds of strict partial genome duplications and endomitosis in cellular nuclei from vegetative organs of seeded Dactylorhiza majalis (subfamily Orchidoideae)
Authors: Schubert Roland , Hohlfeld Heike , Brugger Markus
Published: February 2025

During the analysis of suspensions of PI-stained nuclei from stem, adventitious roots, and leaves of in vitro germinated juvenile D. majalis plants, a range of one to three consecutive rounds of strict partial genome duplications could be discovered. Repeated cycles of under-replications were found again when axenically grown material was moved from solid nutrient media to potting soil, where it further maturated within and outside the laboratory. On average, 83–84% of the 2C DNA content participated in partial genome duplication processes while the remaining 16–17% were untouched. Different frequency distributions were detected for the affected nuclei, depending on the individual, the plant organ, and the ontogenetic stage. The above data were in line with the signs of endomitosis, as shown by acetocarmine-stained smear preparations from the lower epidermis of leaves and from adventitious roots sampled at some distance above the meristematic tip. Endomitosis is one known pathway of endoreplications, which leads to an increased DNA content in non-dividing somatic nuclei. Using a collection of young anthers in the microspore stage, where the regular haplophasic number of 1n = 2x = 40 chromosomes could be counted, foliar cells of the related vegetative plant body were considered to contain the whole set of 2n = 4x = 80 chromosomes that contributed to a mean mass of 14.71 pg DNA per nucleus at the 2C genome level. The diverse biological source materials and investigated ontogenetic stages as well as the different nuclear DNA amount calculations assessed in this study are of instructional value to avoid erroneous estimations of the present nuclear DNA amount per weight using flow cytometry. This is important with respect to the orchid genus Dactylorhiza, for example, when trying to achieve a full understanding of genome size variation in established polyploids and when searching for nascent polyploids in the future.
Entrepreneurship in the context of permanent crisis: the role of community support
Authors: Audretsch David B. , Kariv Dafna
Published: February 2025

In an era of persistent crises, the determinants of technological performance are undergoing a radical transformation. Existing research primarily addresses technological performance under stable conditions, offering insights that fall short during continual crises. To enhance technological performance amid uncertainty, our study of 489 Israeli tech-founders reveals that psychological capital and a strong sense of community belonging are pivotal. These entrepreneurial factors catalyze ecosystem support and opportunities, converting conventional drivers into potent engines of growth. Through mixed methods, advanced Natural Language Processing, and robust statistical analysis, we reveal how entrepreneurial strengths optimize resource utilization. Through interviews, we extract topics and sentiments associated with these factors during crises, showing that a sense of belonging acts as a positive anchor. Questionnaire results further reveal the mediating effects of these internal factors. Our methodology bridges conceptual and empirical gaps, offering new insights to decode technological success in uncertain times. The implications extend beyond theory, providing actionable strategies for tech leaders, policymakers, and innovation ecosystems facing ongoing instability.
Decoding the dark sides of family business: a synthesis, and future research agenda
Authors: Anand Amitabh , Wieszt Attila , Vajda Éva
Published: February 2025

Numerous contributions to family business recognize its positive impact on economic and social development. However, literature often overlooks the harmful aspects. To fill this void, we conduct a multidisciplinary systematic literature review to analyze the current state of the different dimensions of the dark sides of family business (FB) literature and synthesize the findings into a holistic framework. Our study employs a qualitative synthesis approach to propose a new unified definition of the dark side of FB, identify the antecedents, and analyze the consequences. Subsequently, we identify areas that require greater attention and outline a promising future agenda for advancing the literature on dark side of FB.
Leptin and Leptin Signaling in Multiple Sclerosis: A Narrative Review
Authors: Flores-Cordero Juan Antonio , Aranaz-Murillo Amalia , Vilariño-García Teresa , Pérez-Pérez Antonio , Izquierdo Guillermo , Flores-Campos Rocío , Hontecillas-Prieto Lourdes , García-Domínguez Daniel J. , Sánchez-Margalet Víctor
Published: February 2025

Obesity, a pandemic health problem, is now considered as a chronic inflammatory state, related to many autoimmune diseases, such as multiple sclerosis. Thus, adipokines, inflammatory mediators secreted by adipose tissue, play an important role modulating the immune response. In this context, obesity, especially during adolescent age, seems to be a key factor for the development of multiple sclerosis. Leptin, the main pro-inflammatory adipokine secreted by the adipose tissue, has been found increased in patients with multiple sclerosis and is able to regulate the immune system promoting a pro-inflammatory response. Leptin signaling in both innate and adaptative immune cells might have immunomodulatory effects in the context of multiple sclerosis. In this way, leptin has been found to produce a Th1 and Th17 response, increasing M1 macrophages and decreasing regulatory T cells and Th2 response. Moreover, circulating inflammatory adipokines, such as leptin, have been found in people with multiple sclerosis. In the present work, we are reviewing literature to update the body of knowledge regarding the role of obesity and leptin in multiple sclerosis.
Mediationskompetenz von Führungskräften
Authors: Ludwig Katja
Published: February 2025

Die gegenwärtige Dynamik des Wandels in Gesellschaft und Arbeitswelt führt in helfenden Berufen zu Konflikten. Mediationskompetenz bei Führungskräften kann hier einen entscheidenden Beitrag zur Verständigung und der Verbesserung der Mitarbeitendenbeziehungen leisten und somit Zufriedenheit und Personalbindung fördern. In dem Beitrag werden spezifischen Herausforderungen beleuchtet, mit denen Führungskräfte im sozialen Dienstleistungssektor konfrontiert sind. Angesichts des steigenden Konfliktpotential wird der Blick auf die Gestaltung von Beziehungen gelenkt. Damit rückt Mediationskompetenz in den Fokus. Doch was sich dahinter verbirgt und inwieweit sie einen Beitrag zur Führung von Menschen leisten kann, sind Fragen, mit denen sich in diesem Artikel auseinandergesetzt wird.
Untangling New Guinea Cayratia (Vitaceae) using taxonomic and phylogenomic approaches
Authors: Flanagan G. , Bellot S. , Dee R. , Trias-Blasi A.
Published: February 2025

The genus Cayratia consists of 39 accepted species, with eight species being native to New Guinea, three of which are endemic. With numerous revisions and reorganisations since the first publication of the genus, records for the genus remain inconsistent between sources. A key to the species of Cayratia was formed based on species descriptions created using 86 specimens. By using the coordinates from specimens and online resources, a preliminary IUCN Red List assessment was made to analyse the conservation status of the species. All eight species have conservation statuses of Least Concern. A phylogenetic tree of Cayratia of New Guinea was based on using 194 genes obtained through target capture sequencing of DNA extracted from 17 specimens, from New Guinea and neighbouring countries. Associations between phylogenetic placement, morphology and location can be seen throughout the phylogenetic tree. The genetic differences between specimens in the different geographical regions have led to the creation of a new species for Cayratia mollissima (Wall.) Gagnep. of New Guinea, C. novaeguineaensis G.Flanagan.
Lurcher Mouse as a Model of Cerebellar Syndromes
Authors: Roy Choudhury Nilpawan , Hilber Pascal , Cendelin Jan
Published: February 2025

Cerebellar extinction lesions can manifest themselves with cerebellar motor and cerebellar cognitive affective syndromes. For investigation of the functions of the cerebellum and the pathogenesis of cerebellar diseases, particularly hereditary neurodegenerative cerebellar ataxias, various cerebellar mutant mice are used. The Lurcher mouse is a model of selective olivocerebellar degeneration with early onset and rapid progress. These mice show both motor deficits as well as cognitive and behavioral changes i.e., pathological phenotype in the functional domains affected in cerebellar patients. Therefore, Lurcher mice might be considered as a tool to investigate the mechanisms of functional impairments caused by cerebellar degenerative diseases. There are, however, limitations due to the particular features of the neurodegenerative process and a lack of possibilities to examine some processes in mice. The main advantage of Lurcher mice would be the expected absence of significant neuropathologies outside the olivocerebellar system that modify the complex behavioral phenotype in less selective models. However, detailed examinations and further thorough validation of the model are needed to verify this assumption.
Wervingsstrategieën om volwassenen van vijftig jaar en ouder met een lage sociaaleconomische status te bereiken voor deelname aan online beweeginterventies
Authors: Collombon Eline H. G. M. , Bolman Catherine A. W. , de Bruijn Gert-Jan , Peels Denise A. , Lechner Lilian
Published: February 2025

Samenvatting

Over het algemeen is de gezondheidstoestand van mensen met een hogere sociaaleconomische status (SES) beter dan die van mensen met een lagere SES. De inzet van passende strategieën om de lage-SES-populatie te bereiken met online gezondheidsinterventies (e-health) is dus van groot belang om de ongelijkheid op gezondheidsgebied te verminderen. Daarom was het doel van dit onderzoek om inzicht te geven in drie strategieën voor het werven van volwassenen van vijftig jaar en ouder met een lage SES voor deelname aan een online beweeginterventie. Werving vond plaats via sportscholen, uitnodigingsbrieven via een gemeente en socialmedia-advertenties. Aanvullende procedures werden gevolgd om specifiek de lage-SES-groep te bereiken. Het aantal aanmeldingen, sociodemografische kenmerken en de kosten per strategie werden in kaart gebracht. Het hoogste aantal aanmeldingen werd behaald binnen de gemeentelijke aanpak (n = 281), gevolgd door social media (n = 71) en sportscholen (n = 45). De meeste laagopgeleide deelnemers werden bereikt via de gemeente (n = 128), gevolgd door social media (n = 9) en sportscholen (n = 8). Wervingskosten waren € 2142,37 voor de gemeente, € 96,81 voor social media en € 0 voor sportscholen. Concluderend heeft de gemeentelijke wervingsaanpak van de drie toegepaste strategieën de grootste potentie om deelnemers met een lage SES te bereiken, hoewel er rekening gehouden dient te worden met de hogere wervingskosten.
Patiëntbetrokkenheid bij het monitoren van de voedings- en vochtinname in het ziekenhuis: een crosssectioneel onderzoek
Authors: Hoornstra Sjoukje , Lavrijssen-Boerekamp Carola , Nieboer Marianne , Dieleman Jeanne , Sponselee Anne-mie , van der Zijpp Teatske
Published: February 2025

Samenvatting

Het doel van dit onderzoek was om inzicht te krijgen in de voorkeuren van ziekenhuispatiënten en de variabelen die van invloed zijn op de wens om de voedings- en vochtinname te monitoren. In een crosssectioneel onderzoek werden 150 patiënten in een Nederlands ziekenhuis bevraagd over algemene kenmerken, gezondheidsvaardigheden, digitale vaardigheden en voorkeuren ten aanzien van het zelf monitoren van hun voedings- en vochtinname. Uit de resultaten blijkt dat de meeste patiënten (95%) zich in staat voelden om zelf hun voedings- en vochtinname te monitoren. Vijfenveertig procent van de respondenten wilde een actieve rol spelen bij het zelf monitoren. Daarnaast werd aangetoond dat de meeste respondenten (72%) in staat waren om eenvoudige digitale functies te gebruiken. Regressieanalyse toonde aan dat patiënten die hoger scoorden op twee schalen van de Health Literacy Questionnaire, meer geneigd waren om een actieve rol te spelen bij het monitoren van hun voedings- en vochtinname. Hoewel het crosssectionele ontwerp geen causaal verband toestaat en de representativiteit beperkt is tot enkele ziekenhuisafdelingen, levert dit onderzoek waardevolle inzichten op voor de praktijk. Het laat zien dat zelfmonitoring in het ziekenhuis een kansrijke verandering is en biedt aanknopingspunten om deze verandering op persoonsgericht wijze vorm te geven.
Various challenges in understanding the thick filaments, within and outside skeletal and cardiac muscles
Authors: Morel Jean Emile
Published: February 2025

Thick filaments isolated from various sources, most frequently skeletal and cardiac muscles, have been studied, but several aspects of their behavior remain to be clarified. Myosin II is the principal component of these filaments. A “traditional” interacting-heads motif (IHM) has been observed in isolated thick filaments. In this motif, the two heads of the myosin II molecule interact and are stuck to the backbone of the filaments. Another aspect, the super-relaxed state (SRX state), has been described in situ, in relaxed demembranated muscle fibers and myofibrils. It has frequently been claimed that the IHM and the SRX state are closely related. Some authors still consider this relationship valid, but this view is now broadly called into question. These two phenomena occur in very different conditions, making it difficult to determine if and how they are related. For example, macromolecular crowding is a characteristic feature in situ (regardless of interfilament spacing), but not in the conditions in which the “traditional” IHM has been observed. Recent studies in situ have attempted to resolve this problem, but some of the reported findings conflict. Moreover, the association of other proteins with the myosin filaments in situ increases thick filament complexity. Experimental conditions may affect the results obtained but the consideration of long-overlooked data would help to prevent erroneous interpretations. For instance, neither the absence (EM studies) or presence (in situ studies) of cell-associated water nor electrical charges are taken into account in any of the published studies in this domain and the omission of these two parameters could lead to contradictory conclusions. My principal objective here is to provide a brief overview (with a limited number of illustrative references) of the increasing complexity of our understanding of thick filaments over the years, particularly as concerns the weak coupling or absence of coupling between the IHM and the SRX state (recent findings that may be difficult to interpret).
Spatio–temporal enhanced anomaly detection in FRP bridge monitoring using MPCA, biGRU, and attention mechanisms
Authors: Dibiantara Dimas Pustaka , Adha Augusta , Darmawan Muhammad Sigit , Imjai Thanongsak , Russell Justin , Laory Irwanda
Published: February 2025

Accurate structural behavior interpretation via finite element models is often disrupted by uncertainties, while data-driven approaches can struggle with long datasets, complex fluctuations, and the omission of essential spatio-temporal features. Additionally, these methods are limited by their reliance on interpolative predictions. This paper introduces a novel, model-free approach that integrates Moving Principal Component Analysis (MPCA), bidirectional gated recurrent units (biGRU), and attention mechanisms (AM) within an encoder–decoder (ED) architecture. MPCA reduces dimensional complexity, extracts spatial features, and consolidates them into new time-series data for subsequent analysis. The biGRU module captures past and future dependencies, while AM emphasizes most relevant information. Validated on a full-scale pedestrian bridge dataset, the presented MPCA–biGRU–AM model converges 19% faster than MPCA–GRU and reduces anomaly detection lag by 46–78%. Although its per-step processing time (8 ms) slightly exceeds that of MPCA–GRU (3 ms), the model demonstrates greater robustness across diverse damage scenarios. These results highlight its potential for real-time structural health monitoring by effectively capturing spatio-temporal patterns with computational efficiency.
Assessing cognitive impairment in HIV-infected: a comparative study of international HIV Dementia Scale, HIV Dementia Scale Italian version and Montreal cognitive assessment in clinical practice
Authors: Belfiori Maristella , Salis Francesco , Podda Camilla , Stanisci Lorenzo , Puxeddu Benedetta , Ortu Francesco , Piano Paola , Del Giacco Stefano , Mandas Antonella
Published: February 2025

The combination of antiretroviral therapy (cART) and preventive measures has significantly enhanced the management of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infection. However, HIV-associated neurocognitive disorders (HAND) remain a challenge. This study aims to compare cognitive impairment (CI) assessments in people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) using the International HIV Dementia Scale (IHDS), HIV Dementia Scale-Italian Version (HDS-IT) and MoCA (Montreal Cognitive Assessment), while also identifying significant associations. The cross-sectional study encompassed 294 outpatient PLWHA (median age: 57) on cART. Participants underwent cognitive, functional, and depression assessments, laboratory testing and CNS Penetration-Effectiveness (CPE) index assessment. IHDS, HDS-IT and MoCA identified CI in different proportions of PLWHA. Factors such as age, education level, infection duration, and substance use were associated with CI. The IHDS score (OR 0.79) and Level CD4 + T-lymphocytes nadir (OR 0.99) demonstrated independent and negative associations with the CPE-index. IHDS and MoCA tests appear to be useful for detecting CI in outpatient settings, enabling healthcare providers to conduct initial evaluations of PLWHA. IHDS assessment may be used for detecting CI related to high CPE regimens, while the MoCA provides a comprehensive assessment, also in domains not studied by IHDS. However, further research is needed to confirm these findings and refine their clinical applicability.
Teacher professional dispositions as viewed by teachers in Spain: Is a generational perspective relevant?
Authors: Portela Pruaño Antonio , Negrín Medina Miguel Ángel , Marrero Galván Juan José , Bernárdez Gómez Abraham
Published: February 2025

There is a growing interest in teacher quality, which must encompass teacher diversity, including a more age-diverse and ageing teacher workforce. Little is known about how generational change among teachers influences professional dispositions, which are key to teacher quality. This qualitative study investigated how young beginner, mature veteran and older retired teachers in Spain characterise generational groups of teachers according to their professional dispositions. A thematic analysis of data from discussion groups and interviews (n = 24 and n = 60, respectively) showed that the participants (n = 147) identified and had a similar understanding of two core professional dispositions: a sense of vocation and the engagement that it promotes. It was also found that they attributed differences to age, career path, and significant shared experiences. This suggests that, in their perception, these aspects shape their notion of teacher generations, which is important for understanding the contextual and changing nature of professional dispositions.
Comparison of 2D and 3D numerical simulation of woody biomass combustion in fluidized bed reactor
Authors: Mertsoy Esra Yilmaz
Published: February 2025

Biomass, a sustainable energy source, can be utilized to produce chemicals, heat, and electricity. For this purpose, studies on the gasification of woody biomass in fluidized bed reactors are of interest. CFD simulations are commonly utilized for designing and optimizing processes. In computational fluid dynamics (CFD) solutions, 2D and 3D modeling have different advantages and disadvantages in terms of accuracy and computational power. 2D simulations offer quicker results and are adequate for acquiring the majority of pertinent parameters. Conversely, 3D methods are primarily required for meticulous analysis and optimization purposes. The current investigation aims to examine the gasification process in a fluidized bed through the use of CFD. This research involves performing 2D and 3D CFD simulations to examine the devolatilization characteristics of woody biomass in the fluidized bed reactor. The focus of the study is to evaluate the ability of 2D simulation studies to represent 3D simulation studies. The research investigated the behaviors of gas–solid flow modeling using ANSYS 16.0.
From plant to product: investigation of a cellulosic fiber from Xanthium strumarium L. subsp. strumarium stem for its potential use in composite applications
Authors: Ovalı Sabih , Kaya Ali Ihsan
Published: February 2025

In this study, cellulosic fibers obtained from the Xanthium strumarium L. subsp. strumarium (XSL) plant’s stem were characterized. The aim of this study is to compare the characteristics of XSL fiber with different stem fibers such as flax, hemp, and jute that are commonly used in the composite industry for sustainability purposes. The XSL plant is abundant in nature and keeps growing throughout the year. Since it does not require too much water to grow, the XSL plant can be considered as both sustainable and environmentally friendly. No chemical process was used to obtain fiber from the plant; only water retting, which is a natural method, was applied. After the fiber extraction, morphological, thermal, chemical, and physical properties of the XSL fiber were investigated. Consequently, the XSL fiber’s properties are determined as 49% cellulose content, 403 μm in average diameter, and as 1.57 g/cm3 density. It was discovered through a single fiber strength test that the XSL fiber’s mechanical characteristics make it appropriate to be used as a reinforcing fiber in composites. Additionally, thermal characterization revealed that the XSL fiber has a maximum decomposition temperature of 371.14 °C, indicating good thermal resistance. Characterization procedures concluded that XSL fiber can be an economic and environment-friendly reinforcement fiber alternative for composites.
La gestione terapeutica dell’ipoparatiroidismo: tra terapia convenzionale e nuove prospettive
Authors: Del Sindaco Giulia , Mantovani Giovanna
Published: February 2025

Sommario

L’ipoparatiroidismo è una rara malattia endocrina caratterizzata da ipocalcemia, iperfosfatemia e livelli inappropriati di ormone paratiroideo (PTH). Nella maggior parte dei casi consegue a danni a carico delle paratiroidi che si verificano durante interventi chirurgici di tiroidectomia/paratiroidectomia (75% dei casi). Il trattamento convenzionale non prevede la sostituzione dell’ormone carente (PTH) ma si basa sulla supplementazione per os con calcio e vitamina D attiva. Tuttavia, una percentuale non trascurabile di pazienti non raggiunge un controllo biochimico adeguato e soffrono di sintomi persistenti, complicanze e ridotta qualità della vita. Negli ultimi anni, il trattamento dell’ipoparatiroidismo sta evolvendo verso terapie innovative. Sono state proposte terapie sostitutive con PTH o con farmaci che ne simulano l’azione. L’ormone paratiroideo (PTH) ha incontrato il problema della breve emivita, che richiede iniezioni multiple giornaliere o un’infusione sottocutanea continua con pompa. Tuttavia, recenti progressi nella comprensione della fisiopatologia di questa patologia hanno aperto la strada a nuovi approcci terapeutici, come forme di PTH a lunga durata d’azione, analoghi del recettore del PTH e, più recentemente, agenti calcilitici. Questi nuovi approcci terapeutici sono attualmente ancora in parte oggetto di studi clinici con risultati promettenti. Il loro utilizzo futuro dipenderà dagli studi di efficacia e dagli impatti a lungo termine sul metabolismo osseo e sulla funzione renale, che devono ancora essere determinati, oltre che da una valutazione farmaco-economica di costo-beneficio.