bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Psychoacoustic data confirm reduced hearing sensitivity in Hawaiian monk seals relative to Phocinae seals
Authors: Ruscher B , Sills JM , Packard N , Kendall TL , Williams TM , Reichmuth C
Published: November 2024

We presently have an incomplete understanding of hearing in Hawaiian monk seals Neomonachus schauinslandi. Their auditory biology is important from a conservation perspective and is especially intriguing given their long evolutionary isolation from related seal species. Available audiometric data for 2 individuals are conflicting, but suggest that monk seals have limited aquatic and terrestrial hearing abilities compared to the more well-studied species in the Phocinae subfamily of seals. To resolve representative amphibious hearing profiles for Hawaiian monk seals, we describe auditory sensitivity for 1 additional seal trained to participate in a psychophysical task while submerged and on land. Detection thresholds were measured for narrowband signals across the frequency range of hearing under water and at select frequencies in air. This individual demonstrated poor sensitivity in both media, with notable insensitivity to high-frequency waterborne sounds and an overall decreased ability to detect airborne sounds. The range of functional hearing was wider in water (<0.1-40 kHz) than in air (0.1-33 kHz), with peak sensitivities of 73 dB re 1 µPa (at 18 kHz) and 42 dB re 20 µPa (at 3.2 kHz), respectively. These data confirm recently published behavioral audiograms as typical for the species. When considered with the limited available data for related species, these findings suggest that hearing within the Monachinae subfamily of seals differs from that of the highly sensitive Phocinae seals. This study advances knowledge of the evolution of hearing in amphibious marine mammals and supports conservation and management decisions for the endangered Hawaiian monk seal.
Readers' Perception of Overt and Covert Translation in the Translation of Novels: A Case of the English Translation of Naguib Mahfouz's Midaq Alley
Authors: Kullab Randa , Jalalian Daghigh Ali
Published: November 2024

Readers’ expectations of quality play a significant role in the success of a translation. However, studies assessing the translation quality of literary texts in view of Translation Quality Assessment (TQA) models have paid scant attention to these expectations. In response to this gap in knowledge, the present study empirically examined readers’ preferences regarding translation quality in view of House’s (2015) prescription of overt translation for works written by renowned authors and explored the reasons behind these preferences. The study initially applied House’s (2015) TQA tools to determine whether two different translations of Naguib Mahfouz’s Midaq Alley – one by Le Gassik (1975) and the other by Davis (2011) – showed any overt or covert translation tendencies, and then interviewed 20 American readers. The findings revealed that while some of the participants preferred overt translation, citing reasons including a desire to engage with the original culture and a need to access the authentic meaning and style of the original text, others preferred covert translation, as they expected naturalness and creativity. This study provides valuable insights for translators and translation scholars, enhancing our understanding of the relationship between translation typologies and readers’ reception. URL: http://www.skase.sk/
The Single Ventricle of the Heart in Combination with Transposition of the Main Vessels in the Practice of a Doctor: A Clinical Case
Authors: Aitbaev K. , Yusupov F. , Raimzhanov Z. , Yusupova Z. , Yusupova T. , Khakimov Sh. , Solizhonov Zh.
Published: November 2024

The most vulnerable period in terms of the formation of congenital malformations of organs is 3-4 weeks of pregnancy. It is during this period that the formation of the interventricular septum occurs. Exposure to teratogenic factors on the fetus or genetic mutations at the initial stages of embryogenesis can lead to the development of a single ventricle of the heart, which is considered a severe congenital malformation. The article describes a clinical case of a single heart ventricle in a 19-year-old patient complicated by cardiorenal syndrome.
Geography of Distribution of Malus Varieties in Azerbaijan Depending on Soil
Authors: Sadigov A.
Published: November 2024

More than 6,000 plant species have been identified in the Caucasus, of which 4,200 species (70%) are common in Azerbaijan. 11% are trees and shrubs, and 9% are endemic plants. There are more than 280 local varieties and forms of apple trees in Azerbaijan. After the 1920s, the area of ​​fruit orchards in Azerbaijan was expanded to 21 thousand hectares due to local varieties, of which 13 thousand hectares (62%) were apple orchards. In 1926, the Azerbaijan Scientific Research Institute of Horticulture, Viticulture and Subtropical Plants was established in Azerbaijan with the aim of developing fruit growing. New varieties of apple trees are created through selection. Due to the newly created varieties through selection, apple orchards in Azerbaijan have significantly developed. In 1976, 13 thousand hectares of new industrial apple orchards were planted. Since 1982, the existing gene pool of apple trees has been studied.
Development of an Environmentally Friendly, Economical and Effective Method for Pre-sowing Treatment of Cotton Seeds with a Pulsed Electric Field
Authors: Jafarova F. , Gurbanov K. , Tagiyeva Z. , Guseynova S. , Akhadova S. , Gadzhieva V.
Published: November 2024

The aim of this work is to study the effect of electric pulse gas discharge on cotton seeds in pre-sowing processes in grass-grass-gray soils. The studies were conducted on cotton seed samples brought from the Saatli district of the Azerbaijan Republic. Cotton seed samples were treated with pulse gas discharge at 14 kV for 15 minutes at atmospheric pressure and room temperature. As a result of agrotechnical measures in cotton agrocenosis, the living conditions of microorganisms change dramatically. The number of microorganisms increases. Processing seed in the electric field of pulse discharge helps to reduce the number and harmfulness of phytophages by 46.5-68.3% and 13.1-88.5%, respectively.
Biochemical Blood Parameters in the Treatment for Dyspepsia
Authors: Abbasov R. , Zeynalova Sh.
Published: November 2024

Many issues of newborn calves diseases etiology have not been fully studied and the practical experience of many veterinarians shows with proper diagnosis and treatment that it is possible to achieve a sharp reduction in the young animals mortality. With the birth of calves complex adaptation processes to new conditions occur. The next level of development depends on immunity development. Although a range of different drugs are used to treat dyspepsia in newborn calves, they are not always successful, and it depends on the complex of measures used. The aim of the conducted research is to study the state and dynamics of metabolism in the neonatal period with dyspepsia in newborn calves; to study the effectiveness of the probiotic, along with its impact on the clinical situation; to determine the effectiveness of the drug when used for therapeutic and prophylactic purposes. Probiotic Vetom-15.1 was used in different age groups. As a result, it was found that biochemical blood parameters improved significantly.
Listeriosis of Sheep in the Conditions of the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic and the Role of Ticks in Its Spread
Authors: Seyidov M.
Published: November 2024

Listeriosis is a dangerous disease. Ixodid ticks are natural carriers of listeria. The aim of the work is to study listeriosis in sheep in the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic and the role of ixodid ticks in their spread. In 2022, studies were conducted in the Sharur, Babek, and Julfa districts. Ticks were 2collected twice a year: in spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October). The pathogen can be transmitted from generation to generation through transovarial and metamorphic pathways. The causative agent of listeria is H. anatolicumand H. asiaticum and can persist in the body of ticks for up to 18 months, and female ticks are able to transmit listeria transovarially from one stage of development to another during their development. It has been established that young sheep aged 8-14 months are more susceptible to infection with listeriosis.
Procedure for Creating a Reserve for Impairment of Accounts Receivable Based on International Standards
Authors: Kamolova F. K.
Published: November 2024

Shows three receivables based on IFRS, as well as the procedure for creating reserves and the basis of IFRS based on IFRS, as well as the procedure for creating reserves and the basis for forming IFRS and a primary textile enterprise and shows the approach to accounting for impaired accounts.
Pendampingan Pemanfaatan Pangan Lokal sebagai Produk Kuliner Desa Wisata Langda, Kabupaten Enrekang
Authors: Dianafitry Hasan Lily , Zaenal Faisal Akbar , Manaf Syahrial , Anas Muh. , Astrid Astrid , Zulkarnain Riziki
Published: November 2024

Kegiatan pengabdian masyarakat  yang dilakukan oleh Prodi Seni Kuliner, Politeknik Pariwisata Makassar menyoroti pentingnya keterlibatan masyarakat secara langsung dalam pembangunan desa melalui pendekatan Community Based Tourism (CBT) untuk mencapai hasil yang lebih berkelanjutan dan berdampak positif secara sosial dan ekonomi. Studi ini dilakukan di Desa Wisata Langda, Kabupaten Enrekang, Sulawesi Selatan, Indonesia, yang memiliki potensi besar untuk pengembangan pariwisata berbasis masyarakat. Melibatkan masyarakat lokal dengan tingkat kepemilikan yang kuat dan partisipasi aktif adalah kunci utama dalam mencapai pariwisata yang berkelanjutan. Kegiatan bimbingan teknis yang diselenggarakan oleh Prodi Seni Kuliner telah berhasil dalam meningkatkan pengetahuan dan keterampilan masyarakat dalam mengelola bahan lokal menjadi produk kuliner. Hasil evaluasi menunjukkan kepuasan yang tinggi dari peserta, yang memberikan wawasan berharga bagi penyelenggara untuk meningkatkan kualitas kegiatan di masa mendatang. Implikasi dari kegiatan ini adalah potensi pengembangan pariwisata Desa Langda melalui pengembangan produk kuliner lokal yang berkelanjutan, yang dapat meningkatkan kesejahteraan ekonomi lokal dan memperkuat daya tarik pariwisata di tingkat regional maupun nasional. Kesimpulannya, pendekatan Community Based Tourism telah berhasil meningkatkan potensi pariwisata lokal dan dapat membuat Desa Langda menjadi destinasi pariwisata yang lebih menarik dan berdaya saing di masa depan.
Hygiene dan Sanitasi Desa Wisata: Peningkatan Kualitas Air Sumur Melalui Media Filterisasi, Pangkajene dan Kepulauan
Authors: Astuti Harlina Putri , Rusli Afdol , Aryadhi Alvin , Anugrah Aksan , Latihfa Latihfa , Dos Santos Hezron Alhim
Published: November 2024

Poor well water quality is a problem often faced by rural communities in Indonesia. This community service activity aims to improve the quality of well water in Taraweang Village through the use of simple filtering equipment. Through training and demonstrations, the community of Taraweang Village managed to improve their understanding and skills in managing well water using filtering technology. The results of this activity showed a significant improvement in well water quality, including a decrease in iron, manganese and bacteria levels in the water. The success of this program opens up opportunities for replication in other villages experiencing similar problems, with a note that continuous monitoring and support are needed to ensure the sustainability of the use of this technology
Bank Branch Closures and Staff Cutbacks in Peripheral Areas of the European Union: Impact on Micro and Small Enterprises Sustainability. An Evolutionary Perspective
Authors: Discanno Francesco
Published: November 2024

This research investigates the effects of bank branch closures and staff reductions in peripheral regions of the EU, analysed through evolutionary models. The focus is on understanding how these disruptions affect the resilience and adaptive capacity of MSEs, which serve as vital components of the regional economic ecosystems. As bank branches retract, the economic habitat of these businesses suffers from reduced access to essential resources such as credit and financial advice, ultimately threatening their fitness within an increasingly competitive economic landscape. Findings of a mixed-method approach based on quantitative and qualitative analysys suggest that the banking service reductions function as selective pressures, intensifying competition for financial resources and increasing the economic vulnerability of MSEs, particularly in areas where alternative financial services are scarce. This disruption affects the overall ecosystem model of rural and semi-rural economies, where MSEs are crucial for maintaining local trophic levels and ensuring economic biodiversity through diverse business activities. The study reveals that the closures reduce the carrying capacity of peripheral regions to support MSEs, leading to higher rates of business closures and weak economic evolution. To enhance the resilience and sustainability of MSEs, the research advocates for policy measures to preserve a basic level of physical banking infrastructure or promote symbiotic partnerships between the public and private sectors to ensure financial inclusion. Such targeted interventions are critical for maintaining the adaptation mechanisms necessary for MSEs to prosper and contribute to the broader economic health of the EU.
Can GPT-4 do L2 analytic assessment?
Authors: Banno Stefano , Vydana Hari Krishna , Knill Kate , Gales Mark
Published: November 2024

Automated essay scoring (AES) to evaluate second language (L2) proficiency has been a firmly established technology used in educational contexts for decades. Although holistic scoring has seen advancements in AES that match or even exceed human performance, analytic scoring still encounters issues as it inherits flaws and shortcomings from the human scoring process. The recent introduction of large language models presents new opportunities for automating the evaluation of specific aspects of L2 writing proficiency. In this paper, we perform a series of experiments using GPT-4 in a zero-shot fashion on a publicly available dataset annotated with holistic scores based on the Common European Framework of Reference and aim to extract detailed information about their underlying analytic components. We observe significant correlations between the automatically predicted analytic scores and multiple features associated with the individual proficiency components.
Functional composition and generalization of natural numbers by decomposition of semiring structure
Authors: Sebata Junya
Published: November 2024

In this paper we discover natural numbers in new algebraic object. The entity of the algebraic object which is seen as natural numbers is function, and from the functional composition we can have new generalization and analogs of natural numbers. From observation at the structure of them, we derive a combinatorial theorem which the addition and the multiplication of natural numbers satisfy, and we show that the theorem proves several important formulae in natural numbers.
Less is More: Pre-Training Cross-Lingual Small-Scale Language Models with Cognitively-Plausible Curriculum Learning Strategies
Authors: Salhan Suchir , Diehl Martinez Richard , Goriely Zebulon , Buttery Paula
Published: November 2024

Our work empirically assesses a novel hypothesis that language acquisition theories can help design more effective curriculum learning strategies for Cognitively-inspired Small-Scale Language Models (SSLMs). SSLMs are Transformer-based language models trained on corpora that approximate the volume and nature of input that a first-language learner can expect to receive during language acquisition. Curriculum Learning (CL) has emerged as a promising method to improve the cognitive plausibility of SSLMs in the first BabyLM Shared Task, as a way to gradually introduce more complex linguistic phenomena into the model later in training in a manner that is similar to human language acquisition. However, CL strategies have not led to considerable improvements over non-curriculum models. This is contrary to the predictions of linguistic theory, which suggests that children naturally focus on input that is neither too simple nor too difficult but at the right level of challenge for learning. This acquisition behaviour, known as the “Goldilocks Effect”, is a form of self-selecting curriculum learning that appears to naturally occur in first language (L1) acquisition. We compare the success of three curricula (Growing, Inwards & MMM) that precisely replicate the predictions of contrastive acquisition theories based on contemporary Chomksyan acquisition models to specify fine-grained curriculum learning strategies on a volume of Child-Directed Speech (CDS) that a learner would expect to receive by 6 years-old (6;0) for five languages. Overall, Curriculum Learning strategies that precisely replicate language acquisition theories, formulated based on careful analysis of child developmental sequences, can lead to better-performing data-efficient architectures.
HOMO SCIENCE
Authors: Knar Eldar
Published: November 2024

This book is about science, system and scientific bureaucracy, scientific policy, culture, psychology, and other things from the perspective of epistemology (the science of science). It discusses the issues of the science of science and the main problems of the Kazakhstani scientific system as resistant factors of science management and scientific policy. A series of new epistemological paradigms and definitions are introduced (new Kazakhstani recursive index of scientific citation, level of scientific readiness, new convergent classification of sciences, and others). A series of new epistemological terms and definitions are introduced (arsocenosis, arsonomy, and others). The monograph is created within the framework of the development of the philosophy of science according to the classifier of scientific directions: 60000 (Humanities and Arts, 60300 (philosophy, ethics, and religion) 60303 "History and Philosophy of Science." And as a justification for the need for the development of Kazakhstani epistemology and gnoseology for optimal science management and correct scientific policy. Most of the monograph is written in a popular science genre. Understandable to everyone who is engaged in or interested in science.
Finding the Human Voice in AI: Insights on the Perception of AI-Voice Clones from MUSHRA and Similarity Tests
Authors: Bakkouche Linda , Cooper Stephanie , Luo Xinbing , Rees Madeleine , Lau Emily , McGhee Charles , Alter Kai , Post Brechtje , Schwarz Julia
Published: November 2024

Artificial intelligence (AI)-powered voice clones are increasingly utilized in educational and clinical applications, providing valuable tools for platforms such as IELTS, Duolingo, audiobooks, and assistive technologies like ESTA and Socially Assistive Robots. Despite their potential, AI-generated voices often fall short in replicating human-like prosodic features, such as fundamental frequency (F0) and rhythm, crucial for conveying emotion and ensuring intelligibility, particularly in noisy environments. The effects of these prosodic differences on speech perception remain largely unexplored. This study explores three critical questions: (1) how AI-generated speech affects perception accuracy and behavioural performance, (2) whether AI speech prompts neural compensation, as indicated by EEG data, and (3) how variations in prosodic features (F0 and rhythm) influence speech entrainment. We present initial findings from a behavioural pilot study which tested listeners’ perceptions of natural speech, AI voice clones, and prosodically manipulated speech, focusing on ratings of naturalness (Multiple Stimuli with Hidden Reference and Anchor, MUSHRA) and similarity. MUSHRA and Similarity tests were implemented on the Gorilla online experiment platform. Data were collected from 60 native English speakers recruited via Prolific (30 participants per test). Participants compared natural voice samples to those generated by AI models, including Elevenlabs, XTTS, StyleTTS, and a re-synthesized sample with manipulated F0 contours. Results indicate Elevenlabs achieved high ratings, closely approaching human-like naturalness and similarity. In contrast, XTTS and StyleTTS exhibited notable limitations, scoring significantly lower. These findings provide valuable insights for refining AI-generated voices and selecting stimuli for the upcoming EEG experiment on neural responses to AI-generated speech.
"The pínakas is in the art gallery": Exploring language learning through mixed language input
Authors: Vassiliu Chrysoula , Tsimpli Ianthi Maria , Wigdorowitz Mandy , Vogelzang Margreet
Published: November 2024

Background: Learning an additional language is a diverse experience, shaped by factors like learners’ linguistic and cognitive profiles and sociolinguistic context. Research in instructed language learning assumes that input should be presented in a unilingual mode, overlooking natural practices in linguistically diverse societies where mixed language communication is very common. It remains unclear, however, whether a new language can be learnt through mixed input. This study investigates whether mixed language input can facilitate Greek learning in adults from varying linguistic backgrounds. Methodology: We are recruiting 120 adults (age 18-35) with English as their dominant language and no prior Greek exposure. Half will be from India, a highly multilingual country (Linguistic Diversity Index [LDI] = 91%) (Greenberg, 1956), and half from monolingual European countries (LDI < 35%). Each group is subdivided by input type: unilingual Greek or mixed Greek (within English sentences). Greek learning proceeds through phases that introduce nouns (Phase 1), determiners (Phase 2), and verbs (Phase 3). These phases allow us to examine whether learners can arrive at some knowledge of Greek through a scaffolding model of ordered input in the new language. Learning is assessed through picture-based comprehension and grammaticality judgement tasks in Greek. Results: We hypothesise that mixed input will enhance learning across both groups, with Indian participants (from the multilingual context) benefiting more. Pilot results (n = 5) suggest that learning is achieved through our protocol (above-chance performance) and improves across sessions.
Political or Religious Policy? Indigenous Christian Education in the Dutch East Indies Era
Authors: Juwono Harto
Published: November 2024

This study is a textual analysis discussing the existence of Christian educational institutions for indigenous students under the Dutch colonial administration in the Dutch East Indies. The primary objective of this research is to examine the underlying motives behind the Dutch colonial government’s policies on Christian education for indigenous communities, specifically to determine whether these policies were politically or religiously motivated. Focusing on historical contexts, this research employs historical methods to reconstruct past events. The central question addressed is the Dutch colonial government’s main focus in shaping policies for Christian education through mission institutions for indigenous communities: whether these were driven by political interests or religious considerations. Data sources were obtained from literature and historical documents archived in data storage centers and libraries. The findings, using a structuration methodology, reveal a pragmatic dualism underlying the colonial government’s policies, which shifted according to the socio-political context.
Enlightening Faith Nurturing Strategies in Contextualization in Damarwulan Village
Authors: Gunarto Rita Oktavia , Herman Samuel
Published: November 2024

This research is motivated by the challenges of preserving and developing faith in Damarwulan Village, which boasts a rich and unique cultural and traditional heritage. Several issues have been identified, including nominalism, formalism in worship, and a lack of contextual approaches in faith preservation. The aim of this study is to explore effective strategies for nurturing the Christian faith, making it relevant to the local cultural and traditional context. The methodology employed is a case study with a qualitative approach, analyzing the process of faith revitalization through interviews and observations of the local congregation. The findings indicate that contextual renewal and preservation of faith can address the challenges of nominalism and formalism in worship, providing a solid foundation for deeper and more sustainable faith development. In conclusion, maintaining and growing faith that is aligned with the local cultural and traditional context is essential for strengthening the spiritual life of Christians in Damarwulan Village. This research also offers practical guidance for implementing faith-building strategies that are relevant to this specific context.
The Relationship between the Gospel and Culture: A Theological Analysis and Social Perspective in a Contemporary Context
Authors: Soegianto Soegianto
Published: November 2024

In today's era of globalization and cultural pluralism, the relationship between the Gospel and culture has become an increasingly complex issue. Various theological perspectives have developed to understand how the message of the Gospel interacts with diverse cultural values and practices. The debate surrounding accommodation or resistance to local and global cultures requires a deeper examination within the context of Christian theology. This study aims to explore the relationship between the Gospel and culture from theological and social perspectives, as well as how this relationship influences the practice of Christian faith in contemporary multicultural and dynamic societies. The approach used in this research is qualitative theological analysis, with a literature review of contextual theology texts and cultural studies. The collected data were critically analyzed to identify patterns of interaction between the Gospel and culture in the modern social context. The research finds that the Gospel can interact with culture through a dialectical process involving acceptance, adaptation, and transformation of cultural values. In some cases, culture enriches religious practices, but in other situations, there are tensions that require deep theological reflection to ensure that Gospel values are not compromised by certain cultural practices. The relationship between the Gospel and culture is dynamic and contextual. It is important for Christian theology to develop a flexible approach while adhering to the core teachings of the Gospel in the face of cultural changes. In this way, the Gospel can remain relevant and significant in the lives of contemporary societies without losing its integrity.
Parental experiences of using continuous glucose monitoring in their young children with early-stage type 1 diabetes: a qualitative interview study
Authors: Roberts Alison G. , Tully Alexandra S. , Binkowski Sabrina K. , Bebbington Keely R. , Penno Megan A. S. , Anderson Amanda J. , Craig Maria E. , Colman Peter G. , Huynh Tony , McGorm Kelly J. , Soldatos Georgia , Vuillermin Peter J. , Wentworth John M. , Davis Elizabeth A. , Couper Jennifer J. , Haynes Aveni
Published: November 2024

Aim

To explore parents’ experiences of using continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) in their young children with early-stage type 1 diabetes, being followed in the Australian Environmental Determinants of Islet Autoimmunity (ENDIA) study.

Methods

Parents of children with persistent islet autoimmunity who enrolled in the ENDIA CGM sub-study were invited to participate in an optional interview. Semi-structured phone interviews were conducted by a single researcher using an interview guide developed by a multi-disciplinary team. Interviews were conducted following a single CGM monitoring period and prior to parents receiving feedback on their child’s glycemic status. Following transcription, thematic analysis was conducted to determine common themes.

Results

Nine parents (8 mothers, 1 father) were interviewed corresponding to ten children, with a mean (SD) age of 5.6 (2.2) years, who wore CGM for 97 (0.1)% of the time during their monitoring period. Three main themes were identified: (1) Information empowers and helps to reduce uncertainty; (2) Families’ acceptance of using CGM; and (3) Involvement in research provides support and preparation for the unknown.

Conclusions

Parents reported a positive experience of their young child wearing blinded CGM, and the children tolerated wearing CGM very well. Parents were empowered by knowing they would receive information on their child’s glucose levels and patterns and felt well supported. This study provides novel insights into parents’ experiences of using CGM in very young children with early-stage type 1 diabetes.
Analysis of dynamic response of offshore wind turbines subjected to ship impacts and the corresponding protection measures: a review
Authors: Ma Lu , Ding Jieyi , Zhang Xianfeng , Wang Wubin , Zhao Xiong , Sun Chongbo , Yang Yang
Published: November 2024

Offshore wind energy is characterized by its clean and renewable nature, leading to rapid growth in the industry. However, the incidence of ship collisions with offshore wind turbines has also risen with the increasing number of offshore wind farms, particularly in commercial shipping lanes. To gain a thorough understanding of dynamic response between wind turbines and vessels, this paper extensively reviews studies related to wind turbine–ship collisions over the past 2 decades to cover four key aspects: (i) the fundamental requirements and background of collision analysis study, (ii) the analysis of dynamic response and collision characteristics of the fixed-bottom and floating offshore wind turbines (OWTs) subjected to ship collision forces, (iii) the influence of key collision factors that include impact positions, initial ship kinetic energy, and soil–structure interaction on the structural response for the wind turbines, and (iv) a discussion of protection measures to mitigate the collision damage to the substructure. The limitations in the existing studies are discussed, and future research directions are suggested.
Use of anticoagulant rodenticides: a silent threat to biodiversity in a city of Northern Colombian Andes
Authors: Jaramillo-Q. María Antonia , Delgado-V. Carlos A. , Arias-Alzate Andrés
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Anticoagulant rodenticides are generalist toxicants that have lethal and sublethal effects on non-target species, leading to an impact on wildlife conservation due to poisoning and bioaccumulation of these substances. However, in Colombia, little research has been conducted on this environmental issue. This study evaluated the use of anticoagulant rodenticides in an urban area in Colombia from an ecological and regulatory perspective.

Methods

First, the study analyzed the usage patterns of anticoagulant rodenticides for public health in the urban area of Medellı́n over a seven-year period. It also evaluated the potential impact of anticoagulant rodenticides deposits on the city’s Main Ecological Structure and the predator species that may be indirectly affected. Additionally, the study analyzed compliance with regulations on the sale and use of anticoagulant rodenticides in Colombia, specifically for products marketed online. A Hot Spot Analysis was conducted to determine the potential risk of the Main Ecological Structure and the predators selected to be exposed to anticoagulant rodenticides.deposit. On the other hand, the ecotoxicological information of the anticoagulant rodenticides commercialized online in Colombia was characterized, and it was verified whether they complied with the necessary sanitary and environmental national regulations.

Results

Between 2016 and 2022, over 3 million grams of brodifacoum, were applied in the urban area of Medellı́n and critical ARs hotspots were identified. The use of anticoagulant rodenticides has significantly increased the doses and number of application sites each year. More than half of the points (51.13%) in which anticoagulant rodenticides were applied were within the Main Ecological Structure. The Strigiformes order represents the greatest risk of indirect exposure to anticoagulantrodenticides.

Discussion

Currently, many anticoagulant rodenticide products lack ecotoxicity studies for non-target species and fail to adequately inform consumers of the potential environmental impacts resulting from the use of these poisons. To gain a better understanding of the prevalence, transfer routes, and possible acute and chronic effects of anticoagulant rodenticides.
Tigecycline-induced coagulation gene prognostic prediction model and intestinal flora signature in AML
Authors: Zhong Feng-Luan , He Jia-Jun , Bai Kun-Hao , Shao Ruo-Nan , Wu Guo-Yan , Tian Xiao-Peng , Wang Da-Wei , Dai Yu-Jun , Chen Si-Liang
Published: November 2024

Infection is among the most common causes of death in patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) after chemotherapy. The anti-tumor effect of the intestinal microbiota in patients with AML is increasingly being recognized. Tigecycline, a broad-spectrum antibiotics, plays a vital role in the anti-infection treatment of AML patients with neutropenia and accompanying infections. Previously, this group reported that long-term use of tigecycline caused coagulation dysfunction in patients with hematological malignancies, increasing the risk of casualties. RNA sequencing was performed on CHO cells before and after tigecycline treatment. Further, the combined analysis of AML prognostic differentially expressed genes revealed 13 genes affected by tigecycline and closely related to AML prognosis. These genes were used for modeling analysis, and the results showed that the prepared model significantly improved the prognostic prediction efficiency for AML patients. The model also explored the correlation between prognosis score and immune cells infiltrating tumors and immune therapy targets. Moreover, 16S sequencing was performed on fecal samples from AML patients before and after tigecycline treatment. The results revealed that tigecycline significantly altered the distribution of intestinal microbiota in AML patients - These changes in microbiota are related to chemotherapy resistance. This study emphasizes the importance of intestinal microbiota in AML prognosis. Thus, the findings of this study show that the long-term use of antibiotics can not only cause dysbiosis of the intestinal microbiota but also indirectly affect the sensitivity of chemotherapy drugs, affecting the prognosis of AML patients.
Short-term effects of a research-scale oyster cage aquaculture system on sediment transport, water quality, and seagrass meadow health in Copano Bay, TX, USA
Authors: Rubino Ryan , Lima Anthony R. , Fox Joe M.
Published: November 2024

Competing uses for nearshore coastal space, such as aquaculture, have complex environmental and ecological interactions with surrounding seagrass meadows. Oyster aquaculture is among the fastest-growing aquaculture segments in the United States, and it brings concerns such as increased sedimentation from farm maintenance operations and altered water quality through oyster filtration. Changes in seagrass coverage and growth are common indicators of ecological health used to determine anthropogenic impacts on nearshore environments. This study characterized the effects of a research-scale adjustable long-line oyster aquaculture system on the health of adjacent seagrass meadows in Copano Bay, TX. Four Halodule wrightii meadows were identified at various distances from the research site: 100 m upstream (upstream), directly adjacent (0 m), 30 m downstream (30 m), and 60 m downstream (60 m). Sites were monitored for 1) seagrass health, 2) water quality parameters, and 3) sediment deposition. Over the 18-week sampling period, no significant differences (p>0.05) were found for water quality variables or sediment grain-size analysis using a one-way ANOVA. A linear mixed-effects model was used for repeated measures of seagrass data, with no effect of the site found on mean seagrass length, coverage, or maximum length (p>0.05). These results suggest that seagrass health indicators were unaffected by proximity to the oyster system. It was concluded that an oyster research aquaculture system of the type and size at the project location had no major negative or positive impact on seagrass meadow health due to high background variability and the overall minor footprint of the oyster farm across a comparatively large spatial extent.
Safety and feasibility of paired vagus nerve stimulation with rehabilitation for improving upper extremity function in people with cervical spinal cord injury: study protocol for a pilot randomized controlled trial
Authors: Yozbatiran Nuray , Francisco Gerard E. , Korupolu Radha
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Pairing vagus nerve stimulation with traditional rehabilitation therapies results in improved motor recovery in people with stroke. However, this approach has not yet been studied in people with spinal cord injury (SCI). Motor recovery continues to be challenging after SCI, and there is a need for innovative research strategies to enhance motor recovery after SCI. Hence, this pilot randomized controlled trial aims to evaluate the safety, feasibility, and potential efficacy of pairing vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) with rehabilitation therapy to restore the motor function of the paretic upper limbs in people with cervical SCI.

Methods and analysis

In this triple-blind, randomized, sham-controlled pilot study, 8 adults with chronic incomplete SCI will be implanted with a VNS device and randomly assigned to either active VNS (0.8 mA) control VNS (0.0 mA) paired with upper limb rehabilitation. Each participant will undergo 18 in-clinic therapy sessions over 6 weeks, each lasting 120 min and delivered three times per week. Following the in-clinic phase, participants will continue with a 90-day home exercise program. Participants in both groups will receive similar goal-directed and intense upper limb rehabilitation. The therapy is focused on active movements, task specificity, high number repetitions, variable practice, and active participant engagement. Post-treatment assessment will occur immediately after in-clinic therapy and at 30 and 90 days of follow-up. After completion of blinding at 90 days follow-up, participants in the control group will be offered 6 weeks of in-clinic active VNS (0.8 mA) paired with rehabilitation. The safety of pairing VNS with rehabilitation will be assessed by the occurrence of adverse events in each group, and feasibility by the number of treatment sessions and follow-up visits attended and the number of dropouts. Potential efficacy will be assessed by measuring the change in Graded Redefined Assessment of Strength, Sensibility and Prehension (GRASSP) performance from baseline to immediately after in-clinic therapy and to 90 days. Secondary clinical outcome measures are the Toronto Rehabilitation Institute Hand Function Test, Capabilities of Upper Extremity Questionnaire, Spinal Cord Injury Independence Measure-III self-care subscore, and Spinal Cord Injury-Quality of Life scale.

Ethics and dissemination

The trial protocol was approved by the Institutional Review Board of UTHealth (HSC-MS-22-0579). We anticipate publishing the results in a peer-reviewed journal within 1 year of study completion.

Clinical trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT05601661.
Dynamic multilayer networks reveal mind wandering
Authors: Xu Zhongming , Tang Shaohua , Di Zengru , Li Zheng
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Mind-wandering is a highly dynamic phenomenon involving frequent fluctuations in cognition. However, the dynamics of functional connectivity between brain regions during mind-wandering have not been extensively studied.

Methods

We employed an analytical approach aimed at extracting recurring network states of multilayer networks built using amplitude envelope correlation and imaginary phase-locking value of delta, theta, alpha, beta, or gamma frequency band. These networks were constructed based on electroencephalograph (EEG) data collected while participants engaged in a video-learning task with mind-wandering and focused learning conditions. Recurring multilayer network states were defined via clustering based on overlapping node closeness centrality.

Results

We observed similar multilayer network states across the five frequency bands. Furthermore, the transition patterns of network states were not entirely random. We also found significant differences in metrics that characterize the dynamics of multilayer network states between mind-wandering and focused learning. Finally, we designed a classification algorithm, based on a hidden Markov model using state sequences as input, that achieved a 0.888 mean area under the receiver operating characteristic curve for within-participant detection of mind-wandering.

Discussion

Our approach offers a novel perspective on analyzing the dynamics of EEG data and shows potential application to mind-wandering detection.
Global research dynamics in the Mediterranean diet and diabetes mellitus: a bibliometric study from 2014 to 2024
Authors: Yan Yuanyuan , Li Zonghuai , Lian Yuanchu , Liu Pingping , Zhang Bo , Chen Juan
Published: November 2024

Objective

The Mediterranean diet (MedDiet) has been found to have benefits for diabetes mellitus (DM), but a bibliometric analysis of its association with DM has yet to be conducted. This paper aims to explore the current status and research hotspots on the connection between the Mediterranean diet and DM from 2014 to 2024, providing a reference for future studies.

Methods

We retrieved articles published between 2014 and 2024 from the Web of Science database and analyzed them using R software, VOSviewer, and CiteSpace.

Results

A total of 2,806 articles were included in this study. Research on the relationship between the MedDiet and DM showed a steady increase in publication volume from 2014 to 2019, followed by a sharp rise from 2020 to 2023. Spain was the leading country in terms of publication volume, followed by Italy, the United States, China, and Greece. Spain also led in international collaborations, with CIBER—Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red and Harvard University being the most prominent collaboration centers. Nutrients was the most frequently published and cited journal in this field. Common keywords in this literature included components such as olive oil, legumes, and red wine. Mechanisms studied in this field primarily focused on antioxidant effects, improvements in insulin sensitivity and secretion, regulation of lipid metabolism, and modulation of gut microbiota.

Conclusion

Research on the beneficial effects of the MedDiet on DM patients has garnered significant attention from researchers worldwide, and it is expected to become a major focus for future DM prevention and treatment. This study provides a comprehensive analysis of the current status and research hotspots regarding the relationship between the MedDiet and DM, offering valuable references for future research.
Pioneering molecular screening for cervical precursor lesions and cervical cancer in sera
Authors: Miranda-Falconi Paulina , Flores-Peña Gonzalo , Jiménez-Trejo Mauro F. , Torres-Paz Yazmin E. , Reyes-Hernández Diego O. , Estrada-Guzmán Juan C. , Hernández-Ramírez Ernesto , Torres-Torralba Erick N. , Rangel-Ordoñez Juan P. , Vejar-Galicia Daniela K. , Reyes-Fonseca Patricia , Islas-Bayona Omar P. , Hernández-Paredes Rodolfo , Gutiérrez Mercedes , Santillán Orlando
Published: November 2024

Cervical cancer is a significant public health issue in Mexico and many developing countries. Early detection is crucial for combating this disease. The official screening test for cervical cancer is cytology, but this technique faces several barriers, including methodological, educational, and sociocultural challenges. Liquid-based cytology is an improved version of this test, however it does not address the aforementioned complications. Biomarkers for cervical precursor lesions and cervical cancer can improve timely detection of the disease. A previous study from our group identified four circulating human proteins as potential biomarkers for these conditions. For molecular screening, we selected GAPDH as the biomarker for cervical precursor lesions and HNRNPA1 as the biomarker for cervical cancer -chosen from the three previously identified options based on antibody availability- to be detected in sera. Participants underwent a comprehensive panel of tests, including liquid-based cytology, PCR detection of Human papillomavirus (HPV), colposcopy, and histopathology -when applicable-. The last two tests were used as references for determining sensitivity and specificity, with histopathology being the gold standard for cervical cancer diagnosis. All the participants successfully received colposcopies (n = 99) and only those women with visible or suspected cervical lesions/malignancies were biopsied (n = 62). A subset of randomly selected biopsies underwent p16INK4a immunohistochemistry (n = 36). This study compares the performance of liquid-based cytology with the molecular screening. With colposcopy as reference, liquid-based cytology showed 30% sensitivity and 96% specificity, while the molecular screening showed 90% sensitivity and 43% specificity. With histopathology as reference, liquid-based cytology showed 21% sensitivity and 93% specificity, while the molecular screening showed 85% sensitivity and 61% specificity. The molecular screening outperformed the liquid-based cytology in several areas, including detecting true-positive cases, reducing false-negative cases by 34.62%, application time, simplicity of result´s categories, and acceptance among participants. An ideal screening test requires high sensitivity, maintains moderate specificity, and minimizes false negatives. Our proposed screening test meets these criteria, making it an ideal complement -or alternative- for cervical cancer screening.
Critical droplets and replica symmetry breaking
Authors: Newman C. M. , Stein D. L.
Published: November 2024

We show that the notion of critical droplets is central to an understanding of the nature of ground states in the Edwards–Anderson–Ising model of a spin glass in arbitrary dimensions. Given a specific ground state, we suppose that the coupling value for a given edge is varied with all other couplings held fixed. Beyond some specific value of the coupling, a droplet will flip, leading to a new ground state; we refer to this as the critical droplet for that edge and ground state. We show that the distribution of sizes and energies over all edges for a specific ground state can be used to determine which of the leading scenarios for the spin glass phase is correct. In particular, the existence of low-energy interfaces between incongruent ground states, as predicted by replica symmetry breaking, is equivalent to the presence of critical droplets, whose boundaries comprise a positive fraction of edges in the infinite lattice.