bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of muscarinic blockade on the speed of attention shifting, read-out delays and learning
Authors: Thiele Alexander , Milner Agnes McDonald , Hall Corwyn , Mayhew Lucy , Carter Anthony , Sanjeev Sidharth
Published: February 2025

The study aimed to investigate to what extent blockade of muscarinic receptors affects the speed of endogenous versus exogenous attentional shift times, and how it affects learning of attention shifting, cue detection and signal readout. Subjects viewed an array of 10 moving clocks and reported the time a clock indicated when cued. Target clocks were indicated by peripheral or central cues, including conditions of pre-cuing. For peripheral and central cuing, it yielded a compound measure of how long it took to detect the cue, shift attention to the relevant clock and read the time on the clock. For the pre-cue condition it yielded a measure of how long it took to detect the cue and read the time on the clock when attention could have been pre-allocated to the target clock. In study 1, each subject participated in 2 sessions (scopolamine/placebo), whereby the order of drug intake was counterbalanced across subjects, and subjects were blinded to conditions. Scopolamine/placebo was administered before a psychophysical experiment was conducted. In study 2, the effect of muscarinic blockade on learning induced improvements of cue detection, attention shift times (for exogenous and endogenous conditions), and signal readout was investigated. Here scopolamine/placebo was administered immediately after the first (of two) psychophysical sessions, whereby a given subject either received scopolamine or placebo pills. Confirming previous results, we show that pre-cuing resulted in the shortest read-out delays, followed by exogenous cuing, with endogenous read-out delays being slowest. Scopolamine application increased readout-delays in a dose dependent manner. This was mainly driven by increased readout-delays for pre-cue conditions, and to some extent for exogenous cue conditions. It suggests that muscarinic blockade affected the ability to pre-allocated attention to a cued location, as well as to react to peripheral cues. Additionally, blockade of muscarinic receptors immediately after the first session reduced learning dependent improvement of read-out delays. These results demonstrate that muscarinic receptors play an important in detecting cues, and fast read-out of cued information, and they contribute to the learning thereof.
Quantification of Pesticides and In Vitro Effects of Water-Soluble Fractions of Agricultural Soils in South Africa
Authors: Engelbrecht Ilzé , Horn Suranie R. , Giesy John P. , Pieters Rialet
Published: February 2025

Although agrochemicals protect crops and reduce losses, these chemicals can migrate to non-target environments via run-off and leaching following irrigation or heavy rainfall, where non-target organisms can be exposed to a mixture of water-soluble compounds. This study investigated whether the water-soluble fractions of selected agricultural soils from South Africa contain quantifiable concentrations of four commonly used pesticides, 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D), atrazine, dicamba and imidacloprid, and whether the aqueous extracts induce effects in vitro. Effects investigated included cytotoxicity using the MTT [3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide] cell viability assay; xenobiotic metabolism using the H4IIE-luc rat hepatoma cell line; and (anti-)androgenic and (anti-)oestrogenic effects were screened for with the human breast carcinoma cell lines MDA-kb2 and T47D-KBluc, respectively. Oxidative stress responses were measured in H4IIE-luc and human duodenum adenocarcinoma (HuTu-80) cells. All extracts of soil induced oxidative stress, while several samples caused moderate to severe cytotoxicity and/or anti-androgenic effects. The herbicide atrazine had the greatest frequency of detection (89%), followed by dicamba (84%), 2,4-D (74%) and imidacloprid (32%). Concentrations of atrazine [2.0 × 10–1 to 2.1 × 102 ng/g, dry mass (dm)] and the neonicotinoid insecticide, imidacloprid (2.0 × 101 to 9.7 × 101 ng/g, dm), exceeded international soil quality guidelines. Overall, there was no observable trend between the biological effects and pesticides quantified. Nonetheless, the findings of this study show that agricultural soils in South Africa can elicit effects in vitro and contain quantifiable concentrations of polar pesticides. These agrochemicals might pose risks to the health of humans and the environment, but more assessment is necessary to quantify such potential effects.
Comparative study between anterior symphyseal platting and percutaneous symphyseal screws for treatment of traumatic symphyseal diastasis
Authors: Salama Wael , Hosny Hossam , Mousa Elshazly , Elsayed Moustafa
Published: February 2025

Purpose

Symphyseal diastasis accounts for 13–16% of pelvic ring injuries. Symphyseal plating via a Pfannenstiel approach was the standard method of fixation for symphysis diastasis. Recently, percutaneous reduction and fixation of pelvic fractures have been employed to treat various pelvic ring and acetabulum injuries. The current study aims to compare the clinical and radiological results of treatment of symphysis pubis diastasis using symphyseal plating and percutaneous symphyseal screws.

Methods

It is a retrospective study conducted at a trauma centre at academic level I. One hundred and ten patients were identified in our records. Sixty patients were excluded according to our exclusion criteria. Fifty patients were included in this study. Among which were 26 patients treated with anterior symphyseal plating (Group A) and 24 patients treated with percutaneous symphyseal screws (Group B). Posterior pelvic injury was fixated according to the existing pathology. In both groups, we recorded operation time, intraoperative blood loss, length of the incision, number of x-ray shots, changes in symphysis distance (preoperative, immediate postoperative, and in the last follow-up), and time for union. At the last follow-up, the clinical evaluation was conducted using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), and the functional evaluation was conducted using the Majeed scoring method for both groups.

Results

All patients have followed up for at least two years. According to the Majeed Score, group A’s functional classification was excellent for fourteen patients, good for seven, fair for two, and poor for three cases. Group B’s functional classification was excellent for seventeen patients, good for six, and poor for one. The operative time and intraoperative time were significantly different between both groups, while the symphysis diastasis at the last follow-up was insignificant. Five patients in group A showed metal failure in the form of plate breakage, screw loosening, and screw backing out. In Group B, one case showed implant failure and loss of reduction in the form of screw backing out and widening of the symphysis pubis. Two patients in group A had infections at the incision site, which were treated with antibiotics and daily dressings and resolved adequately. No recorded cases of infection in group B.

Conclusion

Both techniques showed favourable results. The group with symphyseal plating showed a higher failure rate than the group with percutaneous screw fixation. The symphyseal screw group had shorter operative time, smaller incision, and less intraoperative blood loss than the symphyseal plating group but more radiation exposure. The symphyseal screw technique is a technically demanding technique and requires a high learning curve. It involves more radiation exposure, especially in inexperienced surgeons.
Female space use correlates with extra-pair mating in barn swallow replacement clutches
Authors: Kenny-Duddela Heather V. , Schield Drew R. , Keller Kayleigh P. , Safran Rebecca J.
Published: February 2025

Extra-pair mating is common in avian species and can modulate the strength of sexual selection. Mate searching behavior of female birds may be an important predictor of mating opportunities and extra-pair mating, yet important knowledge is lacking as we have little data on fine-scale movement of females during the peak fertilization period. Accordingly, much is still unknown about whether and how female phenotypes contribute to extra-pair mating. Here, we examined how female space use and female plumage color are associated with extra-pair mating outcomes in wild barn swallows (Hirundo rustica erythrogaster). We tracked 10 females breeding in Colorado, USA with GPS backpack tags for two hours each morning during their fertile period following an experimental nest failure. We then used low-coverage whole-genome sequencing to determine offspring paternity and to quantify extra-pair mating in the removed clutch and the replacement clutch. Plumage and movement did not correlate with changes in paternity between successive clutches, but movement did correlate with paternity in the replacement clutch. Females that spent more time away from the nest had a higher proportion and number of extra-pair offspring in the clutch laid immediately after the tracking period. These results suggest that differences in female space use contribute to differences in extra-pair fertilizations. In contrast to the historic emphasis on male traits, our study highlights female movement behavior as an important variable associated with mating outcomes in natural populations.
Gender differences in illness acceptance and coping strategies among patients with rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, and axial spondyloarthritis: a cross-sectional survey study
Authors: Lindgren Luise Holberg , Hammer Nanna Maria , Flurey Caroline A. , Jensen Kim Vilbæk , Andersen Lena , Esbensen Bente Appel
Published: February 2025

This study aimed to investigate potential gender differences in illness acceptance and coping strategies in patients with inflammatory arthritis (IA). Furthermore, the study aimed to identify factors associated with illness acceptance and coping strategies specific to men and women. A cross-sectional nationwide survey design was applied. Illness acceptance was measured by using the Acceptance of Illness Scale and coping was measured by using the Medical Coping Modes Questionnaire. Descriptive statistics were used to explore gender differences in illness acceptance and coping strategies in patients with IA, while logistic regression analyses investigated associated factors. The study included 664 participants (85.1% women) with a mean age of 50 and median disease duration of 10 years. Diagnoses included 53.3% rheumatoid arthritis, 27.1% psoriatic arthritis, and 19.6% axial spondyloarthritis. A statistically significant difference was found between men and women in use of avoidance (P = 0.015). Higher illness acceptance was associated with tertiary education in men (OR: 3.90) and older age in women (OR: 1.35 per 10 years). Women with higher disease activity used confrontation more (OR: 1.64) than women with less activity. Men relied more on avoidance when facing psychological distress (OR: 1.29) or severe fatigue (OR: 1.31), as did women with high disease activity (OR: 2.09). Acceptance-resignation was linked to higher disability and psychological distress in men (OR: 1.32 and 1.52) and higher disease activity in women (OR: 2.09). We identified factors associated with illness acceptance and coping strategies among IA patients. Gender-sensitive approaches are needed to address specific factors influencing illness acceptance and coping in men and women.
Photoperiod-driven testicular DNA methylation in gonadotropin and sex steroid receptor promoters in Siberian hamsters
Authors: Denizli Irem , Monteiro Ana , Elmer Kathryn R. , Stevenson Tyler J.
Published: February 2025

Seasonal cycles in breeding, often orchestrated by annual changes in photoperiod, are common in nature. Here, we studied how change in photoperiod affects DNA methylation in the testes of a highly seasonal breeder: the Siberian hamster (Phodopus sungorus). We hypothesized that DNA methylation in promoter regions associated with key reproductive genes such as follicle-stimulating hormone receptor in the testes is linked to breeding and non-breeding states. Using Oxford Nanopore sequencing, we identified more than 10 million (10,151,742) differentially methylated cytosine-guanine (CpG) sites in the genome between breeding long photoperiod and non-breeding short photoperiod conditions. ShinyGo enrichment analyses identified biological pathways consisting of reproductive system, hormone-mediated signalling and gonad development. We found that short photoperiod induced DNA methylation in the promoter regions for androgen receptor (Ar), estrogen receptors (Esr1, Esr2), kisspeptin1 receptor (kiss1r) and follicle-stimulating hormone receptor (Fshr). Long photoperiods were observed to have higher DNA methylation in promoters for basic helix-loop-helix ARNT-like 1 (Bmal1), progesterone receptor (Pgr) and thyroid-stimulating hormone receptor (Tshr). Our findings provide insights into the epigenetic mechanisms underlying seasonal adaptations in timing reproduction in Siberian hamsters and could be informative for understanding male fertility and reproductive disorders in mammals.
Prescribing patterns for treatment of acne vulgaris: A retrospective chart review at an urban public and private hospital
Authors: Syder Nicole C. , Hurtado Arielle Carolina Mora , Saizan Autumn , Gonzalez Melissa , Rodman Jack , Elbuluk Nada
Published: February 2025

Background

Studies have found demographic differences in prescribing patterns for certain inflammatory conditions, including acne.

Objective

To investigate acne prescription patterns among patients seen in the private system (PS) and safety-net health care system (SNS) of the University of Southern California (USC).

Methods

This was a multisite, retrospective study of patients obtaining acne care at PS and SNS outpatient dermatology facilities in Los Angeles over a one-year period.

Results

Despite similar acne severity, SNS patients were less often prescribed azelaic acid, benzoyl peroxide/clindamycin, benzoyl peroxide/adapalene, sulfacetamide, topical dapsone, and salicylic acid than PS patients (p < 0.001). SNS patients received fewer prescriptions for oral medications including spironolactone, antibiotics, and isotretinoin (p < 0.001). Despite similar acne severity, non-White patients were less frequently prescribed topical retinoids (p = 0.003), benzoyl peroxide/clindamycin (p = 0.003), isotretinoin (p < 0.001) and spironolactone (p < 0.001) than White patients. Despite higher acne severity among Hispanics/Latinos, they were less often prescribed spironolactone and oral antibiotics than their non-Hispanic/Latino counterparts (p = 0.023).

Conclusions

Findings from this study highlight differences in acne prescribing patterns by race/ethnicity and hospital system, which can impact the ability of patients to have successful treatment of their acne and its sequelae.
Multiple sclerosis diagnosis and its differential diagnosis in patients presenting with type four ‘mirror pattern’ CSF oligoclonal bands
Authors: Marastoni Damiano , Sicchieri Monica , Pizzini Francesca B. , Scartezzini Arianna , Virla Federica , Turano Ermanna , Anni Daniela , Bertolazzo Maddalena , Ziccardi Stefano , Camera Valentina , Tamanti Agnese , Marini Maddalena , Lippi Giuseppe , Bonetti Bruno , Solomon Andrew J. , Calabrese Massimiliano
Published: February 2025

Background

Presence of oligoclonal bands (OCBs) restricted to cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) characterizes most patients with multiple sclerosis (MS). Few data are available on the frequency of MS diagnosis and the main alternative diagnoses in patients with an initial central nervous system (CNS) demyelinating event and CSF IV pattern, the so-called ‘mirror pattern’.

Methods

Seventy-six patients presenting with OCBs pattern IV after a clinical attack suggestive of CNS demyelinating event were included in the study. Diagnostic work-up, including blood, CSF, and paraclinical examinations, and 2 years of clinical and radiological follow-up were evaluated.

Results

Pattern IV occurred in 15.1% of patients. Twenty-five patients (32.8%) received a diagnosis of MS, thirty-two (42.1%) an alternative diagnosis, and nineteen (25%) remained without definite diagnosis. Most frequent alternative diagnosis was encephalopathy with atypical MRI lesions of probable vascular origin (19.7%). MS was significantly more common in patients with type IV OCB pattern (25 of 76) than in a group of patients presenting with type I OCB pattern (32 of 168, p = 0.017).

Conclusion

The diagnosis of MS is common in patients who present with OCBs pattern IV. However, other CNS disorders, particularly vascular encephalopathy, should be carefully considered.
Risk factors for intraocular pressure elevation in eyes with intraocular lens subluxation or dislocation
Authors: Iwasaki Kentaro , Arimura Shogo , Suzuki Marie , Takamura Yoshihiro , Inatani Masaru
Published: February 2025

Purpose

To investigate the risk factors for intraocular pressure (IOP) elevation in eyes with intraocular lens (IOL) subluxation or dislocation.

Methods

We retrospectively examined the eyes with IOL displacement (either IOL subluxation or IOL dislocation) who underwent IOL refixation combined with vitrectomy between September 1, 2012, and May 31, 2024, at Fukui University Hospital. Patients were divided into two groups: those with IOL subluxation and those with IOL dislocation. Additionally, subgroups were created for eyes without glaucoma and those without both glaucoma and exfoliation syndrome. IOL subluxation was defined as the movement of the IOL–capsular bag complex in the posterior chamber, while IOL dislocation was defined as a fall of the IOL–capsular bag complex into the vitreous space. Risk factors for preoperative IOP elevation in eyes with IOL displacement were identified using multivariate analysis with a multiple linear regression model.

Results

This study included 155 eyes with IOL displacement (IOL subluxation; 73 eyes and IOL dislocation; 82 eyes). Multivariate analyses revealed that IOL subluxation and the number of glaucoma medications were significantly associated with a higher preoperative IOP (P < 0.01). The preoperative IOP and the number of glaucoma medications were significantly higher in the IOL subluxation group than in the IOL dislocation group (22.7 ± 9.0 vs. 15.5 ± 3.9 mmHg, P < 0.01, and 1.2 ± 1.7 vs. 0.2 ± 0.8, P < 0.01, respectively). The number of patients with exfoliation syndrome and glaucoma was significantly higher in the IOL subluxation group than in the IOL dislocation group (49% vs. 10%, P < 0.01, and 25% vs. 7%, P < 0.01, respectively). In the subgroup analysis in eyes without glaucoma (131 eyes), IOL subluxation and the number of glaucoma medications were significantly associated with a higher preoperative IOP (P < 0.01). In this subgroup, the preoperative IOP and the number of glaucoma medications were significantly higher in the IOL subluxation group than in the IOL dislocation group (20.6 ± 8.5 vs. 15.5 ± 3.9 mmHg, P < 0.01, and 0.4 ± 1.0 vs. 0.04 ± 0.3, P < 0.01, respectively), and the incidence of exfoliation syndrome was significantly higher in the IOL subluxation group than in the IOL dislocation group (40% vs. 8%, P < 0.01). In another subgroup analysis in eyes without glaucoma and exfoliation syndrome (103 eyes), IOL subluxation and the number of glaucoma medications were significantly associated with a higher preoperative IOP (P < 0.01). In this subgroup, the preoperative IOP and the number of glaucoma medications were significantly higher in the IOL subluxation group than in the IOL dislocation group (19.3 ± 7.3 vs. 15.7 ± 4.0 mmHg, P = 0.049, and 0.3 ± 0.9 vs. 0.0 ± 0.0, P < 0.01, respectively).

Conclusions

IOL subluxation, but not dislocation, is a risk factor for elevated IOP in eyes with IOL displacement.
Flute-like scours at the base of Plinian pumice-fall deposits at Ohachidaira caldera, Hokkaido, Japan
Authors: Yasuda Yuki , Maeno Fukashi
Published: February 2025

We describe scours and related erosional features at the boundary between the sub-Plinian and overlying Plinian units of the 34-ka eruption at the Ohachidaira caldera and discuss their formation mechanisms. These scours are observed at a proximal section ~ 1.8 km from the caldera center (~ 0.9 km from the rim) and show asymmetric cross-sectional shapes that closely resemble flute marks typically found in subaqueous sedimentary rocks; they cut into underlying strata of the immediately preceding sub-Plinian fallout deposits with surrounding beds variably disturbed along the scours. The scours are overlain by a thin ash lens, in turn overlain by pumice lapilli of the Plinian phase. Another characteristic erosional feature is shear deformation of the top ash layer of the sub-Plinian deposits; this ash layer is locally bent, folded, split, or fragmented. We interpret these features, based upon their field characteristics, to have been formed by dilute turbulent pyroclastic currents that occurred at the beginning of the Plinian phase. No pyroclastic current deposits or erosional features were observed at the base of the Plinian sequence beyond 1 km from the caldera rim, suggesting short runout distances of the dilute pyroclastic currents; such small currents might have resulted from a local collapse along the margin of the Plinian column.
Lacunary statistical soft convergence in soft topology
Authors: Bayram Erdal , Dervişoğlu Melisa
Published: February 2025

Statistical convergence and some related types of convergence are a generalisation of topological convergence. Similarly, soft set theory, introduced by Molodtsov to deal with uncertainty in various scientific fields, is a generalisation of the classical concept of sets. Although both concepts have found extensive applications to various mathematical structures, the investigation of statistical convergence within soft topological spaces has not yet been undertaken. This study examines the lacunary statistical convergence of sequences of soft points in soft topological spaces, employing a density defined by an unbounded modulus function. Basic results and inclusion theorems concerning this convergence are presented.
Context-aware coverage path planning for a swarm of UAVs using mobile ground stations for battery-swapping
Authors: Porcelli Lorenzo , Ficco Massimo , D’Angelo Gianni , Palmieri Francesco
Published: February 2025

The usage of swarms of drones is expected to continue growing in the next years, particularly in dangerous scenarios, such as monitoring and rescue missions in hostile and disaster areas. Small-sized Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) are highly suitable for use in such scenarios due to their agility and maneuverability. On the other hand, their limited battery capacity poses significant challenges, especially during missions requiring full coverage of large areas in a short time and extreme weather conditions. This work proposed an energy efficiency approach, which makes use of mobile ground-based battery-swapping stations (BSSes), to speed up the UAV’s battery replacement and reduce energy waste in the round trip to the charging station. Specifically, a Context-Aware Coverage Path Planning (CACPP) problem has been formulated to determine the complete coverage path of a large area by a swarm of UAVs, minimizing the path overlapping and UAV battery swapping. The model takes into account the need to continue re-planning the mission, depending on the weather conditions (i.e., temperature and wind), the presence of obstacles, and the residual energy levels of the drones, as well as the relative positions of the drones and mobile BSSes. To solve the CACPP problem, an iterative approach leveraging two synchronized optimization models for planning UAV paths and BSS routes has been presented. As the CACPP problem is NP-hard, a heuristic procedure for solving it has also been evaluated. Experimental results show that it can be appropriate for large instances of the problem.
VireNet-SSD: object detection model for resource-constrained applications based on self-organized operational neural networks
Authors: Kamath Vidya , Renuka A.
Published: February 2025

Discovering deep learning-based computer vision solutions for use with constrained devices is exceptionally hard, and the trade-offs are often too undermining. Deep learning models are enormous, which makes it challenging to deploy them on constrained platforms. The convolutional neural network is the fundamental framework for majority of the models that are currently in use. However, operational neural networks have recently shown to be a better option to the convolutional equivalents on a variety of tasks due to their heterogeneous nature and greater resemblance to the functioning of biological neurons. The question of whether heterogeneous models could function on constrained devices and be deployed in real time remains a major concern. To address this problem, an object detection model architecture based on a single-shot multi-box detector with self-organized operational neural networks as its backbone was developed, which can perform efficiently on constrained devices such as Raspberry Pi. The resultant backbone architecture was named as VireNet. In contrast to homogeneous conventional deep learning networks that use convolutions, heterogeneous networks were chosen to develop VireNet, which provides a more productive and effective solution. Furthermore, an in-depth explanation of the design space has been provided to aid any future research that is associated with this architectural search. This new approach might mark the very beginning of the use of heterogeneity to address issues on devices with constrained resources.
Global Longitudinal Strain score predicts subclinical cardiac involvement of multiple sclerosis patients
Authors: Demir Fidel , Özbek Mehmet , Akıl Mehmet Ata , Akıl Eşref
Published: February 2025

Background

People with multiple sclerosis (MS) have a higher risk of cardiovascular disease than the general population, but the data are limited. Evaluation with strain echocardiography, a new echocardiographic method, can provide more objective data to evaluate global and segmental left ventricular systolic functions. Left ventricular Global Longitudinal Strain (GLS) may be useful in demonstrating subclinical myocardial dysfunction in MS, therefore we planned such a study. We aim to evaluate LV functions with GLS obtained with basal tissue doppler in people with MS.

Material and methods

A comparison of the demographic laboratory and echocardiographic findings of the multiple sclerosis patients with strain echocardiography records registered in our hospital and the control group with similar age and gender was performed. 80 RRMS patients and 65 control group were compared. Those with another chronic disease, those who received exacerbation treatment within the last month, those outside the age range of 18–65, and other forms of progressive MS were excluded from the study.

Results

GLS scores was significantly lower in the MS group(-17.05 ± 1.33 vs.18.99 ± 1.08, 
p

 < 

0.001

). The optimal GLS score predicted poor LV functional status in people with MS with high EDSS scores with cut-off value ≤ 17.10, sensitivity of 73%, specificity of 58% [AUC: 0.652 95% CI, (0.531–0.773), p = 0.023]. It was observed that as the EDSS score increased, that is, in the presence of worse clinical condition, the GLS score decreased (r = -0.245, p = 0.003).

Conclusions

We think that strain echocardiography may be useful in demonstrating subclinical myocardial damage in people with MS. We found that as the EDSS score, that is, the severity of the disease, increases, the subclinical effect on cardiac functions increases.
Long-term changes in the allergenic potential of ruderal vegetation in a Central European urban area
Authors: Hrabovský Michal , Ščevková Jana , Rendeková Alena , Zahradníková Eva , Jarolímek Ivan
Published: February 2025

Allergenic pollen from ruderal vegetation, particularly grasses (Poaceae) and invasive weeds such as Ambrosia artemisiifolia, poses increasing health risks in urban areas. Climate change and urbanisation influence the distribution and allergenic potential of these plant communities. This study analyses long-term changes in allergenic species within ruderal vegetation in Bratislava, Slovakia, and their relationship with meteorological factors, using phytosociological relevés from two periods (1975–1982 and 2011–2017). Changes in the proportion and cover of allergenic species, as well as the allergenic potential of ruderal vegetation, were assessed statistically and correlated with meteorological data. Of the 458 recorded species, 105 were allergenic, contributing 58% of the vegetation cover. Allergenic species richness, cover, and proportion increased significantly, driven primarily by invasive Asteraceae and grasses. Air temperature showed strong positive correlations with these metrics, while precipitation had minimal impact. The highest allergenic potential was recorded in the Stellarietea mediae class. However, the overall allergenic potential of ruderal vegetation over the four decades remained relatively stable, despite the changing species composition: the spread of some invasive species was balanced by the retreat of others.
Neurosurgical management of brain metastases in the elderly: a prospective study on adverse event prevalence and predictors
Authors: Lenga Pavlina , Scherer Moritz , Kleineidam Helena , Unterberg Andreas , Krieg Sandro M. , Dao Trong Philip
Published: February 2025

The management of brain metastases (BM) in geriatric patients poses significant challenges in the context of an aging population and advances in systemic cancer treatment. This study provides insights into the prevalence and nature of adverse events (AEs) following intracranial surgery in patients aged 65 years and older. It highlights the complexities and implications of treating this demographic patient population and identifies risk factors associated with AEs. This prospective study includes patients aged 65 years and older with BM who underwent surgery between January 2022 and December 2023. A detailed assessment of AEs, defined as any complication occurring within the first 30 days post-surgery, was conducted. Potential risk factors for the occurrence of AEs were examined. The study encompassed 104 patients, averaging 70.1 ± 2.8 years, with 102 undergoing surgery. The mean age-adjusted Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI) score was 8.9 ± 1.2, indicating a significant comorbidity burden, predominantly cardiac conditions. The Karnofsky Performance Scale (KPS) showed substantial improvement post-surgery, increasing from 71.3% ± 7.8 to 75.1% ± 5.0 (p = 0.045). The average hospital stay was 10.6 days. Four non-surgery-related mortalities occurred within the 30-day postoperative period. Surgery-related AEs included wound complications in two patients, with one necessitating surgical revision. Advanced age and comorbidities emerged as significant predictors of AEs. Our findings suggest that neurosurgical intervention for BM in the elderly is a feasible and safe option, demonstrating favorable morbidity and mortality rates. However, careful postoperative monitoring is crucial, especially considering the baseline health status of these patients, which increases their susceptibility to AEs. Standardizing protocols for AE reporting and analysis is essential for improving clinical outcomes and maintaining the quality of healthcare for this patient population.
Combined accessibility validation and monitoring of web sites and PDF documents
Authors: Iannuzzi Nicola , Manca Marco , Paternò Fabio , Santoro Carmen
Published: February 2025

Accessibility validation of online digital content through automatic tools has been addressed in limited terms. There is a need for a holistic approach to accessibility validation, able to align well with the goals of public organisations and accessibility authorities. In this perspective, one main issue is that usually such tools aim to assess either the web content, or the PDF documents, but not both. However, users need that all the content be accessible, regardless of the format used, thus it would be helpful to have tools able to perform a combined analysis of both web pages, and PDF files connected with such pages. This combined approach to accessibility validation, beyond providing a more complete and coherent view on the accessibility supported for everyone, would also be important for accessibility authorities (who must monitor the state of accessibility on a large scale, e.g., to comply with the EU WAD Directive), as well as for public organisations (since they could incur in legal risks and potential lawsuits, if only web pages are compliant). Indeed, a combined accessibility analysis would help them to identify the sites that need more interventions and would also be useful more generally to stimulate web developers and content providers to pay attention to both aspects. In this paper, we present how a tool that originally supported Web accessibility validation only, has been extended to include in the supported accessibility analysis also PDF files, to provide a more comprehensive assessment of the evaluated content. We describe the tasks it supports, the possible use cases, as well as some results obtained in a large-scale combined validation (Web and PDF content), carried out on Italian public service websites. The paper also reports the results of a user study carried out to understand the usability of the features that were added to the tool to support the validation of the accessibility of both web and PDF content.
Teacher collaborative knowledge building in Reciprocal Peer Observation
Authors: Flores Marta , Miquel Ester , Duran David
Published: February 2025

This research focuses on the interaction between pairs of teachers who carry out Reciprocal Peer Observation (RPO) practices. The aim is to identify how teachers learn by building knowledge collaboratively during their participation in feedback meetings (the third stage of the RPO cycle). From an initial sample of 400 voluntary in-service teachers, audio files recorded during feedback meetings are collected. Teacher pair interaction is analyzed in 94 meetings using a system of categories and subcodes. Discourse moves related to collaborative knowledge building (CKB) and non-CKB are analyzed to check if there are differences between the two roles carried out (observer and observee). The study combines descriptive and inferential analysis, and results indicate that there is a greater use of discourse moves related to CKB. Differences between observer and observee roles are identified, indicating that RPO can be an adequate practice for teacher learning because it allows each teacher to take advantage of the opportunities of both roles. It is concluded that enriching feedback meetings with the use of informed knowledge, support of tools, and quality feedback can promote even more CKB in RPO feedback meetings and therefore continue to move forward to practices in which teachers can collaboratively learn from each other.
Field-cycling imaging yields repeatable brain R1 dispersion measurement at fields strengths below 0.2 Tesla with optimal fitting routine
Authors: Senn Nicholas , Ross P. James , Ayde Reina , Mallikourti Vasiliki , Krishna Adarsh , James Charly , de Vries Clarisse F. , Broche Lionel M. , Waiter Gordon D. , MacLeod Mary Joan
Published: February 2025

Objectives

By rapidly changing magnetic field strength between 0.2 and 200 mT during the pulse sequence Field-Cycling Imaging (FCI) makes it possible to identify and evaluate new quantitative markers of pathology derived from dispersion of spin–lattice relaxation rate (R
1) in vivo. The aim of this work was to determine the most effective approach to reliably estimate multi-field R
1 dispersion measurements in brain tissue using FCI.

Materials and methods

This repeatability study consisted of twenty participants with moderate or severe small vessel disease. Each participant underwent 3 T MRI and FCI scans, repeated 30 days apart. After R
1 maps were generated at 0.2, 2, 20, and 200 mT, co-registered tissue labels generated from 3 T MRI were used to extract tissue averaged values of R
1 dispersion from regions of white matter (WM) and WM hyperintensities (WMHs).

Results

The fitted model which yielded best overall image contrast between WM and WMH regions and R
1 dispersion model adherence was determined. Tissue averaged values of R
1 (0.2 mT) and R
1 dispersion slope exhibited Cohen’s d effect sizes of 3.07 and 1.48, respectively, between regions of WM and WMH. The cohort study results were repeatable between study visits.

Discussion

Differences in R
1 measurements could repeatably be discerned between normal and abnormal appearing brain tissues.
Can tree leaves be an alternative source of feed for dairy ruminants?
Authors: Bonizzi Serena , Colombini Stefania , Pavesi Martina , Zucali Maddalena , Failla Osvaldo , Dragoni Federico , Amon Barbara , Ragaglini Giorgio , Sandrucci Anna
Published: February 2025

The importance of agroforestry systems is increasing as they promote sustainable agricultural practices to address climate change and food security. The study aimed to assess the potential of tree species as feed ingredients for dairy ruminants. Leaves from five tree species—Fraxinus excelsior L. (common ash), Morus nigra L. (black mulberry), Robinia pseudoacacia L. (locust tree), Salix babylonica L. (weeping willow) and U. minor Mill. (field elm)—were sampled in three different times in spring–summer season 2023 on a farm in Northern Italy. Proximate composition, analyses along with in vitro analyses, were conducted to determine net energy of lactation (NEL) by gas production and fibre digestibility (NDFD). Results found wide variability among species for chemical and nutritive value. Fibre content (% DM) was highest in U. minor (57.2) and lowest in M. nigra (34.5), whereas crude protein (% DM) was highest in R. pseudoacacia (22.4), followed by S. babylonica and M. nigra (20.3, on average), U. minor (15.1) and F. excelsior (14.0). Morus nigra had the highest NDFD (75.3%) and NEL (5.66 MJ/kg DM). Intermediate NEL values were recorded for F. excelsior and S. babylonica (4.50 MJ/kg DM, on average), the lowest values in U. minor and R. pseudoacacia (3.90 MJ/kg DM, on average). The study indicated that most of the examined tree species can be used as dietary supplements due to their nutritional properties as they maintain their quality throughout the growing season. Morus nigra emerges as the most promising species due to its superior nutritive value.
Carbon stocks, technological development, and milk yields of dairy cattle silvopastoral production systems in the Andean-amazon region of Colombia
Authors: Mavisoy Henry , Castro Rincón Edwin , Riascos Vallejos Adrian Rolando , Narváez-Herrera Juan Pablo , Rosas Lorieth , Guerra Acosta Adriana del Socorro , Riascos Salcedo Adrián Antonio , Aguillon Alban Disney Magali , Chingal Carlos , de Almeida André M. , Fangueiro David
Published: February 2025

This research aimed to assess carbon (C) stocks (living biomass, soil and detritus) in silvopastoral systems (SPS), the C density in living biomass (CLB) at the farm level, technological adoption and milk yields in an integrated fashion in small dairy farms in the Andean-Amazon region of Colombia. Technological adoption was assessed on a scale of 0 to 100% across 26 points. Milk yields from the top 10% highest-yielding farms were used for gap analysis. The lactation period and weaning age were considered as herd management variables. The study included 30 farms classified as high, medium or low SPS coverage. The average farm size was 9.1 ± 0.8 ha−1 where live fences (LF) and woodlots (WL) were the main SPS. The total C were 152.0 ± 13.8 Mg·ha-1, 152.2 ± 10.3 Mg·ha-1, and 73.2 ± 4.4 Mg·ha-1 in WL, LF and pastures. Farms with high SPS coverage (10.8 ± 1.1%) presented a CLB density of 8.6 ± 2.0 Mg·ha−1, 3.4 and 43 times higher than those with medium and low coverage, respectively. Average milk yield was 3190.1 ± 237.5 kg fat and protein-corrected milk (FPCM) cow−1 yr⁻1, with the top 10% of farms having 6056.7 kg·FPCM·cow−1 yr⁻1. Farms with low SPS coverage had the smallest yield gap (1221.4 ± 290 kg·FPCM·cow−1 yr⁻1) but also a lower average yield (2883.0 ± 290 kg·FPCM·cow⁻1·yr⁻1). The farms averaged 48.9 ± 2.1% in the technological adoption level, 271.5 ± 8.4 days of lactation period, and 129.3 ± 17.8 days of weaning age, with no significant differences across SPS levels. An integrated approach to jointly increase technology adoption, herd management, and the enhancement of SPS coverage at the farm level can reduce the yield gap while enhancing C stocks.
Brain Dynamics of Speech Modes Encoding: Loud and Whispered Speech Versus Standard Speech
Authors: Sanders Bryan , Lancheros Monica , Bourqui Marion , Laganaro Marina
Published: February 2025

Loud speech and whispered speech are two distinct speech modes that are part of daily verbal exchanges, but that involve a different employment of the speech apparatus. However, a clear account of whether and when the motor speech (or phonetic) encoding of these speech modes differs from standard speech has not been provided yet. Here, we addressed this question using Electroencephalography (EEG)/Event related potential (ERP) approaches during a delayed production task to contrast the production of speech sequences (pseudowords) when speaking normally or under a specific speech mode: loud speech in experiment 1 and whispered speech in experiment 2. Behavioral results demonstrated that non-standard speech modes entail a behavioral encoding cost in terms of production latency. Standard speech and speech modes’ ERPs were characterized by the same sequence of microstate maps, suggesting that the same brain processes are involved to produce speech under a specific speech mode. Only loud speech entailed electrophysiological modulations relative to standard speech in terms of waveform amplitudes but also temporal distribution and strength of neural recruitment of the same sequence of microstates during a large time window (from approximatively − 220 ms to − 100 ms) preceding the vocal onset. Alternatively, the electrophysiological activity of whispered speech was similar in nature to standard speech. On the whole, speech modes and standard speech seem to be encoded through the same brain processes but the degree of adjustments required seem to vary subsequently across speech modes.
Proca stars in excited states
Authors: Joaquin Carlos , Alcubierre Miguel
Published: February 2025

In this paper, we consider families of solutions for excited states of Proca stars in spherical symmetry. We focus on the first two excited configurations and perform a series of fully non-linear dynamical simulations in order to study their properties and stability. Our analysis reveals that excited Proca stars are always unstable against even very small perturbations, and their dynamical evolution can lead to three different final states: collapse to a black hole, dissipation, or migration to a different configuration in the ground state. We find that migration to the ground state can only occur in a small region of the parameter space of solutions with negative binding energy.
Data management in industry: concepts, systematic review and future directions
Authors: Freitas Nelson , Rocha Andre Dionisio , Barata Jose
Published: February 2025

Data management, particularly in industrial environments, is increasingly vital due to the necessity of handling ever-growing volumes of information, commonly referred to as big data. This survey delves into various papers to comprehend the practices employed within industrial settings concerning data management, by searching for relevant keywords in Q1 Journals related to data management in manufacturing in the databases of WebOfScience, Scopus and IEEE. Additionally, a contextual overview of core concepts and methods related to different aspects of the data management process was conducted. The survey results indicate a deficiency in methodology across implementations of data management, even within the same types of industry or processes. The findings also highlight several key principles essential for constructing an efficient and optimized data management system.
Synthesis of ZrTiVPO4 Embedded Calcium Alginate Beads for Efficient Sorption of 152+154Eu, 133Ba, and 134 Cs from Liquid Radioactive Waste Effluents: A Comprehensive Study
Authors: Mahrous Sara S. , Mansy Muhammad S. , Breky Mohamed M. E.
Published: February 2025

The present work demonstrates a comprehensive study for efficiently removing some hazardous radionuclides from liquid radioactive waste using zirconium titanium vanadium phosphate/alginate (ZrTiVPO4/Alg) composite. A composite material of (ZrTiVPO4/Alg) was synthesized by the sol–gel technique and subsequently examined utilizing FT-IR, SEM, XRD, EDX, BET surface area, and TGA analyses. (ZrTiVPO4/Alg) composite beads were tested for sorption of 152+154Eu, 133Ba, and 134Cs from radioactive liquid waste. Various parameters influencing the sorption of 152+154Eu, 133Ba, and 134Cs have been investigated, such as the contact time, pH value, temperature, and initial concentration. The highest percent removal was achieved at pH 4 for 152+154Eu and pH 6 for 133Ba, and 134Cs. The equilibrium time for the sorption process was attained at 90 min. An investigation was conducted on the isotherms and kinetics of ZrTiVPO4/Alg sorption of 152+154Eu, 133Ba, and 134Cs. The Freundlich isotherm model provides a better fit (R2 = 0.988) than the Langmuir model (R2 = 0.967), suggesting a multilayer adsorption process on the ZrTiVPO4/Alg composite surface with a maximum adsorption capacity (Q

max
) 30.3, 29.4, and 21.6 mg/g for 152+154Eu, 133Ba, and 134Cs respectively. Moreover, the adsorption kinetics studies indicate that the process follows the pseudo-second-order model. Finally, a chromatographic column study has been carried out to confirm the findings obtained from the batch experiments. The column analysis revealed that the breakthrough capacities for 152+154Eu, 133Ba, and 134Cs are as follows: 23, 19, and 12 mg/g, respectively.
Environmental taxation triggers persistent psychological resistance to climate policy
Authors: Malovicki- Yaffe Nechumi , Hamairi Boaz , Bloy Leah , Fishmen Ram
Published: February 2025

Environmental taxation is often lauded as an effective tool for changing consumer behavior, but it can also trigger substantial psychological resistance, especially among disproportionately affected groups, such as the Jewish ultra-Orthodox (Haredi) community, potentially creating a broad anti-environmental backlash. In the current study we provide novel empirical evidence for the psychological mechanisms that can drive such reactance and its potential long-term persistence. In 2021, Israel introduced a tax on single-use plastics, only to swiftly retract it amidst vehement political opposition and a change in government. We conducted six rounds of surveys within the Haredi population, known for its heavy use of single-use plastics. Immediately after the tax’s enactment, we found a substantial decrease in “pro-climate” positions. Regression analysis showed this change to be primarily driven by a sense of victimization—being unfairly singled out by the tax for political, rather than environmental, reasons. The economic burden of the tax played a lesser role. Two years after the tax was repealed, however, the decrease in “pro-climate” positions persisted, despite a decrease in sense of victimhood. These findings shed light on the potential negative and enduring psychological and political consequences of environmental taxation. They underscore the importance of addressing underlying grievances to foster genuine engagement with climate-related issues.