bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multifaceted Biomarkers Suggest a Similar Profile of CNS Pathology in Relapsing and Progressive MS
Authors: Blok Katelijn M. , Klein Kranenbarg Romy A. M. , Ananth Kirtana , Engelenburg Hendrik J. , van den Bosch Aletta , Giannini Lucia A. A. , de Beukelaar Janet , Seelaar Harro , Huitinga Inge , Green Ari , Wokke Beatrijs , Abdelhak Ahmed , Smolders Joost
Published: February 2025

Background

Relapsing–remitting (RR) and primary progressive (PP) multiple sclerosis (MS) have distinct clinical courses, but underlying pathophysiological differences remain unclear. We compared pathological components between RRMS, PPMS, and other inflammatory and neurodegenerative disorders, leveraging soluble biomarkers and post‐mortem pathology.

Methods

Serum and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) of people diagnosed with (pw) PPMS (n = 104), RRMS (n = 38), Alzheimer's disease (AD, n = 22), neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD, n = 10), and myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein–associated disease (MOGAD, n = 10) were collected. B‐cell maturation antigen (BCMA), soluble CD27 (sCD27), osteopontin (OPN), chitinase‐3‐like‐1 (CHI3L1), glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), neurofilament light chain (NfL) and synaptosomal‐associated protein‐25 (SNAP25) were measured. Lymphocytes (CD20+, CD138+, CD3+) and pyramidal‐tract axonal density in RR‐onset (n = 86) and PPMS (n = 45) post‐mortem brain tissue were quantified.

Results

Soluble and post‐mortem tissue biomarkers did not differ between pwRRMS and pwPPMS. Compared to AD, MS had higher CSF sCD27 (p < 0.001) but lower serum CHI3L1 and GFAP, and CSF OPN and SNAP25 (all p < 0.05). Serum OPN was lower in RRMS than NMOSD (p = 0.013). Principal component analyses and K‐means clustering showed substantial overlap of RRMS and PPMS biomarkers, distinct from AD. In all pwMS, serum NfL and CSF BCMA correlated with clinical/radiological disease activity, CSF BCMA and sCD27 with inflammatory parameters, and serum GFAP, CSF GFAP, and CSF NfL with Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) score.

Conclusions

Serum and CSF soluble biomarker profiles and post‐mortem pathology do not differentiate RRMS from PPMS diagnoses but reflect the extent of inflammation and tissue damage. Detailed assessment of MS‐associated inflammation and tissue damage may enhance classification and therapeutic strategies.
Utilising Explainable AI to Enhance Real‐Time Student Performance Prediction in Educational Serious Games
Authors: Gomez Manuel J. , Armada Sánchez Álvaro , Albaladejo‐González Mariano , García Clemente Félix J. , Ruipérez‐Valiente José A.
Published: February 2025

In recent years, serious games (SGs) have emerged as a powerful tool in education by combining pedagogy and entertainment, facilitating the acquisition of knowledge and skills in engaging environments. SGs enable the collection of valuable interaction data from students, allowing for the analysis of student performance, with artificial intelligence (AI) playing a key role in processing this data to make informed inferences about their knowledge and skills. However, the lack of explainability in AI models represents a significant challenge. This research aims to develop an interpretable model for predicting students' performance in real‐time while playing an SG by: (1) calculating the performance of an interpretable prediction model of task completion in an SG and (2) demonstrating the application of the interpretable model for just‐in‐time (JIT) classroom interventions. Our results show that we are able to predict students' task completion in real‐time with a balanced accuracy result of 77.21% after a short playtime has elapsed. In addition, an explainable artificial intelligence (XAI) approach has been applied to ensure the interpretability of the developed models. This approach supports personalised learning experiences, unlocks AI benefits for non‐technical users, and maintains transparency in education.
Different Approaches to Measuring Diversity Affect the Strength of the Relationship Between Biodiversity and Ecosystem Function in Freshwater Studies: A Meta‐Analysis
Authors: da Silva Samiris Pereira , Carneiro Fernanda Melo , Nabout João Carlos
Published: February 2025

The notion that biodiversity begets greater ecosystem functioning is an enduring paradigm in ecology, supported by a growing body of research demonstrating the significant effects of biodiversity on ecosystem functioning (BEF). These studies use several diversity metrics, which can be estimated through taxonomic, functional and molecular approaches.

Here we aim to investigate the performance of different approaches (taxonomic, functional and molecular), considering the different biodiversity metrics in each approach (e.g., richness, composition, among others). Additionally, we assess the individual response of ecosystem processes (e.g., productivity, decomposition, among others) to biodiversity in each approach. To this end, we perform a review and meta‐analysis of studies that assessed BEF relationship in continental aquatic environments, encompassing 94 studies and 322 effect sizes. Our data set includes diverse contexts, with different organisms, environments and ecosystem processes.

We found an overall positive association between biodiversity and the functioning of continental aquatic ecosystems (Effect size = 0.37). We also found differences in the proportions of biodiversity metrics applied in the studies between the different approaches, as well as some geographic bias, with a predominance of studies conducted in the northern hemisphere. Additionally, lakes were the most commonly studied systems, and productivity functions were frequently analysed. We found that the molecular approach, applied exclusively in microbial studies in our dataset, showed better performance in evaluating the BEF relationship.

Despite the strengths of the molecular approach, it is not without limitations. Some challenges such as high costs of sequencing and maintaining database infrastructure, can hinder its application. In light of these limitations, we understand that applying functional approaches, specifically functional richness and functional evenness metrics, in the study of the BEF relationship in continental aquatic ecosystems is promising. This can be an alternative for the continuity and advancement of studies of the BEF relationship in these environments. We also highlighted the need for studies in the southern hemisphere, covering the different freshwater ecosystem and multiple functions.
Exploring Clover‐Based Nurse Cropping for Birdsfoot Trefoil Establishment and Yield
Authors: Ates Serkan , Seeno Elizabeth , MacAdam Jennifer W. , Moot Derrick J.
Published: February 2025

Birdsfoot trefoil (Lotus corniculatus L.), renowned for its persistence in challenging soil and climate conditions, serves as a valuable non‐bloating forage legume in temperate regions. However, its slow establishment and low initial yields in the establishment year make it vulnerable to competition from companion and weeds species. Therefore, we investigated the effects of three legume species (red clover, Trifolium pretence L.; balansa clover, Trifolium michelianum L.; and berseem clover, Trifolium alexandrinum L.) as nurse crops at three seeding rates (target 60, 120 or 240 plant m2). These companions increased (p < 0.01) total forage accumulation by 37%–55% in the establishment year. The number of established birdsfoot trefoil seedlings was similar in monoculture and mixtures with annual legumes but lower (p < 0.01) when planted with red clover. Neither seeding rate nor legume species impeded birdsfoot trefoil growth in the second season. Notably, binary mixtures of birdsfoot trefoil and red clover outperformed (p < 0.01) the birdsfoot trefoil monoculture, yielding an additional 3260–5440 kg DM ha−1. These findings highlight a practical strategy for farmers to sow birdsfoot trefoil with a suitable annual or perennial legume species, increasing total forage production without compromising the subsequent birdsfoot trefoil yield or nutritive value.
Is poor dietary quality in adolescence a risk factor for painful temporomandibular disorders and headaches in young adulthood? A prospective study in the Danish National Birth Cohort
Authors: Mansoori Mojdeh , Rocha Exposto Cristina , Hammer Bech Bodil , Frodi Olsen Sjurdur , Ahrendt Bjerregaard Anne , Baad‐Hansen Lene
Published: February 2025

Objective

To investigate the association between adolescents’ dietary quality and the presence of painful temporomandibular disorder (p‐TMD) and headaches in young adulthood.

Background

P‐TMD is a common orofacial pain condition often associated with headaches and discomfort. Some studies have shown that dietary behaviors can impact chronic musculoskeletal pain. Although various factors such as sex, age, psychosocial aspects, and pain sensitivity contribute to p‐TMD, the role of nutrition remains unclear.

Methods

The dietary quality of 32,247 singletons from the Danish National Birth Cohort (DNBC) at age 14 was assessed using the Healthy Eating Index (HEI) encompassing eight domains. Among these, 11,982 (37.1%) individuals completed the TMD pain screener and headache‐related queries at age 18 and above. HEI and dietary domains were analyzed as potential risk factors for p‐TMD and headaches.

Results

P‐TMD was present in 3163 of the 11,982 members of the study population. HEI scores were divided into quartiles, with quartile four indicating the highest dietary quality. Quartile four showed a higher odds ratio (OR) for p‐TMD than quartile one (OR = 1.14 [95% confidence interval (CI), 1.01–1.29]), but the significance was lost after adjustment for confounders (adjusted OR [aOR] = 1.12 [95% CI, 0.97–1.30]). Overall dietary quality was not significantly associated with headaches. However, specific dietary quality domains, such as dietary fibers (aOR = 0.97 [95% CI, 0.95–0.99]), fish (aOR = 0.98 [95% CI, 0.97–1.00]), sodium (aOR = 1.03 [95% CI, 1.01–1.06]), and added sugar (aOR = 0.97 [95% CI, 0.95–0.99]) were associated with headaches but not with p‐TMD after adjustment.

Conclusion

Overall adolescent dietary quality did not significantly associate with p‐TMD or headaches in young adulthood after adjusting for confounders. However, specific dietary domains exhibited weak but statistically significant associations with headaches. These findings underscore the interplay between diet and pain, calling for further research to unveil the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms connecting lifestyle, p‐TMD, and headaches.
The impacts of climate and the extreme drought in 2018 on population growth in Swedish moth species
Authors: Betzholtz Per‐Eric , Forsman Anders , Franzén Markus
Published: February 2025

Insects are pivotal to ecosystem diversity and functionality, yet they face increasing threats from anthropogenic climate change impacts. A growing body of studies reports the effects of changing temperature and precipitation patterns, but relatively few studies focus on the consequences for insect populations because of extreme weather events.

Here, we examine population growth responses to temperature, precipitation and the extreme summer drought in Sweden in 2018. For this purpose, we used longitudinal data for 54 moth species collected between 2005 and 2023 using light traps at three sites in southeastern Sweden.

We found a positive relationship between temperature and population growth rates across all study sites, while precipitation showed a positive relationship at two sites and no effect at the third. The results indicated a negative time‐lag effect on population growth, at two of the sites, of precipitation the previous year, while there were no significant effects of temperature the previous year. Despite the extreme drought in 2018, moth populations remained resilient, with no dramatic decline in population growth between 2018 and 2019.

Our results contrast earlier studies reporting severe declines in population growth in response to extreme drought events. The discrepancy may reflect a combination of region‐specific effects of extreme weather events and that selected species in this study predominantly consist of range‐expanding and migratory species, better able to withstand adverse conditions due to a higher climatic tolerance and being habitat and food plant generalists.

Our findings underscore the importance of an increased knowledge of site‐specific responses and effects of extreme weather events such as droughts when outlining conservation efforts.
Effect of calcium magnesium aluminate on microstructural distribution of SiO2 impurity in magnesia
Authors: Zhou Siqi , Wei Yaowu , Yu Yiming , Wöhrmeyer Christoph , Gao Jianying , Liu Chunfeng
Published: February 2025

The effect of calcium magnesium aluminate (hereinafter referred to as CMA) on the microstructural distribution of the main impurity SiO2 in magnesia was investigated in this research. The XRD, SEM, and EDS analyses were used in this work. It can be seen from the result that SiO2 in low‐grade sintered magnesia diffused into CMA area at high temperature and the distribution of SiO2 in sintered magnesia was significantly reduced. The main mineral phase of sintered magnesia was periclase and monticellite, and impurities in sintered magnesia mainly existed in the form of monticellite, which was completely decomposed into liquid phase and periclase above 1400°C, SiO2 in the liquid phase in the sintered magnesia migrated into the liquid phase that formed in the CMA. Furthermore, the adsorption energy of CaO on SiO2 is stronger than that of MgO on SiO2, so the SiO2 in sintered magnesia diffused into CMA due to its relatively higher CaO content compared with the sintered magnesia. The SiO2 content in fused magnesia was lower than that of sintered magnesia and the dicalcium silicate (C2S) content in fused magnesia was higher than that of sintered magnesia, so the influence of CMA on microstructural distribution of SiO2 in fused magnesia was obviously different than that with low grade sintered magnesia.
A Structural Voyage Toward the Landscape of Humoral and Cellular Immune Escapes of SARS‐CoV‐2
Authors: Liu Jun , Wu Yan , Gao George F.
Published: February 2025

The genome‐based surveillance of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) in the past nearly 5 years since its emergence has refreshed our understanding of virus evolution, especially on convergent co‐evolution with the host. SARS‐CoV‐2 evolution has been characterized by the emergence of sets of mutations that affect the functional properties of the virus by altering its infectivity, virulence, transmissibility, and interactions with host immunity. This poses a huge challenge to global prevention and control measures based on drug treatment and vaccine application. As one of the key evasion strategies in response to the immune profile of the human population, there are overwhelming amounts of evidence for the reduced antibody neutralization of SARS‐CoV‐2 variants. Additionally, data also suggest that the levels of CD4+ and CD8+ T‐cell responses against variants or sub‐variants decrease in the populations, although non‐negligible cross‐T‐cell responses are maintained. Herein, from the perspectives of structural immunology, we outline the characteristics and mechanisms of the T cell and antibody responses to SARS‐CoV and its variants/sub‐variants. The molecular bases for the impact of the immune escaping variants on the interaction of the epitopes with the key receptors in adaptive immunity, that is, major histocompatibility complex (MHC), T‐cell receptor (TCR), and antibody are summarized and discussed, the knowledge of which will widen our understanding of this pandemic‐threatening virus and assist the preparedness for Pathogen X in the future.
EZH2‐Mediated PHF10 Suppression Amplifies HMGB1/NF‐κB Axis That Confers Chemotherapy Resistance in Cholangiocarcinoma
Authors: Yin Qiushi , Lin Daning , Zeng Weiqian , Gu Shijing , Zhu Chuangshi , Liang Changfu , Yang Yan
Published: February 2025

Chemoresistance represents a major threat to the treatment of human cancers, including cholangiocarcinoma (CHOL). Aberrant epigenetic events contribute most to the progression of CHOL and chemotherapy efficacy. PHF10, one subunit of SWI/SNF complex, expressed highly in tumours that correlated with tumorigenesis. However, the roles of PHF10 in CHOL remains unclear. Here, we utilised the bioinformatic analysis to reveal that PHF10 expressed lowly in CHOL samples relative to normal tissues. Functionally, we demonstrated that PHF10 deficiency enhanced cell proliferation, migration and self‐renewal capacities of CHOL cells. PHF10 ablation further enhanced the chemoresistance of CHOL cells. The transcriptome analysis revealed that PHF10‐KO could notably alter several oncogenic crosstalk, including the NF‐kB signalling. As the top hit, HMGB1 mRNA expressions had the sharpest increase upon PHF10 deficiency. PHF10 coordinated with Setdb1 to mediate the H3K9me3 modifications on the HMGB1 promoter to suppress its expressions. Low PHF10 relied on HMGB1 to promote the progression of CHOL cells in vitro and in vivo. Furthermore, EZH2 mediated the H3K27me3 enrichment on the PHF10 promoter region that contributes to its low expressions. Lastly, the HMGB1 inhibitor (Glycyrrhizin) decreased proliferation rate of PHF10‐deleted cells in vitro and in vivo. Targeting HMGB1 rendered PHF10low CHOL re‐sensitive to chemotherapy. Collectively, this study demonstrated that PHF10 functions as a tumour suppressor in CHOL, and is a novel target to predict and overcome chemoresistance.
Efficacy and safety of premixed versus basal‐bolus regimens as intensification of insulin therapy in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: A systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomized clinical trials
Authors: Dehghani Mohsen , Sadeghi Masoumeh , Barzkar Farzaneh , Khamseh Mohammad Ebrahim , Torshizian Ashkan , Baradaran Hamid Reza
Published: February 2025

Aim

To estimate the efficacy and safety of the basal‐bolus and premixed insulin as intensification regimens in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

Methods

A comprehensive search of online databases was performed until December 2022 to identify randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing premixed insulin versus basal‐bolus regimen with treat‐to‐target intention. The Cochrane ROB‐2 tool and GRADE approach were used for quality assessment and certainty of the evidence, respectively. Pooled weighted mean difference (WMD) and odds ratio (OR) were calculated using random‐effects meta‐analysis models.

Results

Eighteen RCTs were included in the meta‐analysis, and 66% had a low risk of bias. We found no significant difference between the two regimens regarding HbA1c reduction (WMD: 0.03% [−0.05%, 0.10%]). The basal‐bolus regimen improved fasting plasma glucose (FPG) more than the premixed regimen (WMD: 6.35 mg/dL [0.31, 12.39]). Both had similar effects on weight gain. The odds of developing overall, nocturnal, and severe hypoglycemia were comparable (pooled OR: 0.9, 1.02, and 1.00, respectively) with no heterogeneity. Findings of the model were robust. The certainty of the evidence was moderate to high for all outcomes except FPG.

Conclusions

Two regimens are clinically comparable. Patient preference should be considered when adopting an individualized approach in a real‐world setting.
Establishment and Application of a Rapid Detection Method of Cyprinid Herpesvirus 2 (CyHV‐2) in Aquacultural Waters by Using a Novel One‐Pot RAA‐CRISPR/Cas12a Combined With Fe‐Iron Flocculation Technology
Authors: Hou Zewei , Ding Zhaoyang , Zhang Ye , Pang Binghui , Gui Lang , Liu Ying , Lu Liqun , Roengjitd Patarida , Wang Hao
Published: February 2025

Cyprinid herpesvirus 2 (CyHV‐2) poses a substantial global threat to goldfish (Carassius auratus) and crucian carp (Carassius carassius). Despite the development of several sensitive molecular diagnostic techniques, there is an ongoing demand for alternative visualisation platforms to streamline the workflow, enhance safety profiles, and improve accessibility for end‐users. In this study, we have integrated recombinase‐aided amplification (RAA) technology with the CRISPR/Cas12a system to establish a rapid diagnostic system for CyHV‐2, termed one‐pot RAA‐CRISPR/Cas12a. This method enables the results of detection within 60 min. The RAA‐CRISPR/Cas12a platform is capable of detecting as few as 10 copies of CyHV‐2 per reaction cycle without exhibiting cross‐reactivity with other pathogens. The positive detection rate in clinical samples exceeds that of conventional PCR approaches, underscoring its high precision. Furthermore, the method could be used in conjunction with iron flocculation for the concentration and detection of viruses within aquaculture settings. This approach minimises the dissection of aquatic organisms, thereby maximising animal welfare and bolstering detection efficiency. Collectively, our findings validate the RAA‐CRISPR/Cas12a method as a robust, specific, confirmatory, user‐friendly and promising approach for on‐site diagnosis of CyHV‐2.
“By the Time We Knew …”: Poetic Analysis of End‐of‐Life Caregiving Experiences for Rapidly Progressive and Slower‐Duration Dementia Syndromes
Authors: Harrison Krista L. , Morgan Brianna E. , Friend Juliana , Garrett Sarah B. , Looi David , Halim Madina , James Jennifer E. , Boyd Nicole D. , Gilissen Joni , Geschwind Michael D. , Ritchie Christine S. , Smith Alexander K.
Published: February 2025

Background

One in three older adults in the United States dies with or from dementia. Little is known about whether end‐of‐life caregiving experiences differ by dementia diagnosis.

Methods

We conducted a secondary analysis of two qualitative studies. Participants included caregivers of decedents with “rapid‐type” sporadic Creutzfeldt–Jakob Disease (sCJD, survival prognosis of < 1 year) or “slow‐type” Alzheimer's disease and related dementias (survival prognosis of 5–20 years). We used reflexive thematic analysis and a novel method, poetic analysis, to compare end‐of‐life caregiving experiences.

Results

“Rapid‐type” caregivers (n = 12) had a median age of 59 (range 45–73) years; 6 were female, and 9 were spouses. “Slow‐type” caregivers (n = 15) had a median age of 69 (45–82) years; 9 were female, and 11 were spouses. We identified three main areas of differential experience that were influenced by syndrome rarity and participation in research yet hinged on time. Time enables preparation: Due to the rarity of sCJD, “rapid‐type” caregivers struggled to obtain accurate diagnoses, which prevented preparation for end‐of‐life care. Weeks or months before death, specialists simultaneously disclosed sCJD diagnoses and recommended hospice. In contrast, for “slow‐type” dementia, preparation began years before death. Time complicates conflict: Most “rapid‐type” caregivers described conflicts, rarely resolved before death, about code status, treatment, or care location decisions. Fewer “slow‐type” caregivers experienced such conflicts, and these were typically resolved before death; instead, they experienced conflict between needs and what the care system provides. Postmortem experience contrasts with perimortem: For “rapid‐type” dementia, short perimortem periods contrasted with elongated and often intense postmortem logistics and grief. For “slow‐type” caregivers, preparation and perimortem grieving typically led to shorter duration and minimally intrusive postmortem logistics and grief.

Conclusions

End‐of‐life care for dementia should attend to and support axes of differential experience based on diagnosis and rarity, time since symptom onset (affecting preparation and conflict resolution), and participation in research studies.
Association of Perinatal Factors and Family Sociodemographic Characteristics With Cardiometabolic Health in Pre‐Adolescence: Cross‐Sectional Results From Healthy Growth Study
Authors: Nakaki Ioanna , Kontochristopoulou Aikaterini M. , Anastasiou Costas , Moschonis George , Halilagic Anela , Cao Yingting , Karaglani Eva , Manios Yannis
Published: February 2025

Aim

Study the influence of a variety of perinatal factors on the presence of metabolic syndrome and its parameters in prepubertal age, considering socio‐demographic factors, sex, Tanner stage and weight status of the preadolescent.

Methods

Data collected from the cross‐sectional Healthy Growth Study (2007) in students from four prefectures of Greece and their families. Cardiometabolic risk factors (waist circumference, blood pressure and blood indices) and perinatal data (from parents and health records) were collected. Single and a multiple logistic regression performed to assess the associations with cardiometabolic risk in preadolescence. Dependent variables included waist circumference, blood glucose, HDL‐C, TG, blood pressure and metabolic syndrome presence, while independent variables encompassed perinatal factors categorised as pre‐pregnancy, during and post‐pregnancy.

Results

2666 pre‐adolescents (mean age 11.2 year) participated in the study. After adjustment for parental educational level, family income, sex, Tanner stage and weight category, maternal pre‐pregnancy weight was positively associated with high waist circumference (OR, 95% CI 1.02 (1.00–1.04)), low HDL‐C levels (OR, 95% CI 1.01 (1.00–1.03)) and metabolic syndrome (OR, 95% CI 1.02 (1.00–1.05)). Timing of solid foods' introduction was positively associated with high waist circumference (OR, 95% CI 1.09 (1.01–1.08)), gestational age with high glucose levels (OR, 95% CI 1.12 (1.04–1.19)), smoking (OR, 95% CI 1.07 (1.00–1.14)) and alcohol consumption (OR, 95% CI 2.35 (1.05–5.27)) during the first trimester of breastfeeding with high glucose levels and low HDL‐C levels, respectively. Number of previous miscarriages was positively associated with low HDL‐C levels (OR, 95% CI 1.28 (1.04–1.57)). Gestational age was negatively associated with high waist circumference (OR, 95% CI 0.87 (0.80–0.95)) and iron supplementation in the third pregnancy trimester negatively association with high TG levels (OR, 95% CI 0.34 (0.12–0.91)).

Conclusions

Maternal weight, perinatal behaviours, infant feeding and miscarriages influence pre‐pubertal cardiometabolic health, independent of sociodemographics, sex, Tanner stage and weight.
Identification of Plant Species Using Convolutional Neural Network with Transfer Learning
Authors: Arun Anupama , Sharma Sanjeev , Singh Bhupendra , Hazra Tanmoy
Published: February 2025

Plants are the building blocks of nature and human beings. However, the excessive explosion of population and climate changes, some plants are extinct, and some are on the corner of extinction. Additionally, numerous species remain unexplored till now. Exploring the species in the traditional way are labor‐intensive, time‐consuming and require specialised expertise. So, it is a very challenging task. To overcome these challenges, various state‐of‐the‐art approaches have been proposed. These approaches often face significant limitations related to accuracy, training and testing processes. This paper proposed a novel approach to species identification leveraging deep learning techniques, employing a weighted average methodology. The proposed approach utilises well known publicly available datasets like Malayakew (MK) and Leafsnap, to evaluate F1 score, recall, accuracy, and precision. In proposed approach we utilised pretrained Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs) and Transfer Learning (TL) to enhance performance. Specifically, architectures such as NASNet, DenseNet121, ResNet50V2, Xception, VGG19 and VGG16 were employed in the experimental study. The proposed approach achieved an F1 score of 99.9%, recall of 100%, accuracy of 100% and precision of 100% on the MK dataset. On the Leafsnap dataset, the suggested approach achieved an F1 score of 94%, recall of 94%, accuracy of 93.5% and precision of 94%. These results demonstrate that the proposed approach significantly outperforms existing state‐of‐the‐art works, offering a robust and efficient solution for species identification across diverse datasets.
Damsels in Disguise: Development of Ultraviolet Sensitivity and Colour Patterns in Damselfishes (Pomacentridae)
Authors: Tettamanti Valerio , Marshall N. Justin , Cheney Karen L. , Cortesi Fabio
Published: February 2025

Damselfishes (Pomacentridae) are widespread and highly abundant on tropical coral reefs. They exhibit diverse body colouration within and between the ~250 species and across ontogenetic stages. In addition to human‐visible colours (i.e., 400–700 nm), most adult damselfishes reflect ultraviolet (UV, 300–400 nm) colour patches. UV sensitivity and UV colour signals are essential for feeding and form the basis for a secret communication channel invisible to the many UV‐blind predatory fish on the reef; however, how these traits develop across ontogenetic stages and their distribution across the damselfish family is poorly characterised. Here, we used UV photography, phylogenetic reconstructions of opsin genes, and differential gene expression analysis (DGE) of retinal samples to investigate the development of UV vision and colour patterns in three ontogenetic stages (pre‐settlement larval, juvenile, and adult) of 11 damselfish species. Using DGE, we found similar gene expression between juveniles and adults, which strongly differed from larvae. All species and all stages expressed at least one UV‐sensitive sws1 opsin gene. However, UV body colour patterns only started to appear at the juvenile stage. Moreover, Pomacentrus species displayed highly complex UV body patterns that were correlated with the expression of two sws1 copies. This could mean that some damselfishes can discriminate colours that change only in their UV component. We demonstrate dramatic shifts in both UV sensitivity and UV colouration across the development stages of damselfish while highlighting the importance of considering ontogeny when studying the coevolution of visual systems and colour signals.
Volumetric Assessment of Resorption Patterns of Bilateral Alveolar Clefts in Cone‐Beam Computed Tomography in Two‐ Stage Bone Graft
Authors: Regnstrand Tobias , Bousiou Alice , Karsten Agneta , Benchimol Daniel , Jacobs Reinhilde
Published: February 2025

Objective

Few studies have analysed the outcome of bone grafts in bilateral alveolar clefts and the bone fill with a two‐step surgery method. The currently applied three‐dimensional method used in this study enables a comprehensive description of the bone fill of bilateral clefts after bone grafting. The study aimed to describe alveolar cleft volume and bone fill after alveolar bone grafting of bilateral alveolar clefts treated with two‐step bone grafting, with a comparison between the first and the second bone graft site. A secondary aim was to investigate whether the cleft volume on the non‐surgical side changed after contralateral surgery.

Materials and Methods

In this retrospective study, 60 CBCT scans from 20 patients were included (8 girls and 12 boys) with an age range of 6.5–11.5 years (mean age 8.7). The cleft volume was measured in pre‐ and post‐operative CBCT scans and assessed in ITK‐SNAP to calculate the bone fill of the cleft.

Results

After bone grafting, 47% of the first bone‐grafted cleft was filled with bone, and 33% of the second bone‐grafted cleft, without significant difference between them (p = 0.03). The mean preoperative cleft volume was 0.42cm3 and the mean residual cleft volume after bone graft was 0.23cm3. There was however a significant difference when comparing the bone fill between the nasal and the dental part (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Almost half of the cleft volume was filled with bone after bone grafting. The order of the bone graft side did not influence the bone fill of the cleft.
Type 2‐high airway inflammation in childhood asthma distinguishes a more severe phenotype
Authors: Skov Frederikke R. , Sultan Tamo , Fischer‐Rasmussen Kasper , Chawes Bo L. , Stokholm Jakob , Vahman Nilo , Bønnelykke Klaus , Schoos Ann‐Marie M.
Published: February 2025

Background

It remains unclear whether phenotyping of type 2‐high (T2‐high) asthma can distinguish clinical characteristics and lung function trajectories in childhood.

Objective

To explore differences between T2‐high and T2‐low asthma from birth to age 18 years.

Methods

We included 47 children with asthma and 165 as a control group from the Copenhagen Prospective Studies on Asthma in Childhood2000 mother–child cohort. T2‐high and T2‐low asthma was defined at age 7 by sensitization to aeroallergens, elevated eosinophilic blood count, and/or elevated fractional nitric oxide. Lung function measurements included whole‐body plethysmography, spirometry, exercise test, cold air provocation, and methacholine challenge. Differences in lung function trajectories and traits were analyzed using linear mixed models, Wilcoxon rank‐sum test, Fisher's exact test, and Quasi‐Poisson regression.

Results

At age 7 years, 47 had asthma (26 T2‐high, 21 T2‐low). By age 18, 12 (46.2%) with T2‐high had persistent asthma whereas 2 (9.2%) with T2‐low; OR 8.14 [1.57–42.34]. Specific airway resistance (sRaw) was 12.5% higher through childhood in children with T2‐high asthma (estimate 0.53 [0.06; 1.01]); lung function was more reversible (OR 3.37 [1.03–11.00] for spirometry and OR 2.60 [1.17; 5.75] for sRaw), and they had increased airway hyperresponsiveness (AHR) to methacholine (as shown by 41% lower dose required to cause a 20% drop in lung function (estimate −0.70 [−1.18; −0.23])). There was no significant difference in exacerbation rate and other lung function measurements.

Conclusion

Childhood T2‐high asthma differs from T2‐low asthma in terms of onset, duration, airway resistance, and airway responsiveness.
Toward a Conjunctural Analysis of New York City's Housing Movement
Authors: Krinsky John
Published: February 2025

The work of Antonio Gramsci points the way to the analysis of political conjunctures in ways that are complementary to, but go beyond, those of historical institutionalists. With a focus on the layering of longer‐ and shorter‐term movement and policy dynamics, as well as on the fundamental contradictions that fuel social struggles, the approach is applied here to an analysis of recent housing struggles in New York City. Tracing the historical and organizational roots of contemporary fights over social housing, rent regulation, and evictions, the article argues that broader political backlash has hampered the movement, while the institutional innovations of the movement—and over 80 years of policy—remain resources for a broader and more radical future.
Longitudinal co‐occurrence of adolescent mental health difficulties and democratic citizenship in early adulthood
Authors: Okolikj Martin , Girard Lisa‐Christine
Published: February 2025

Little is known about the link between childhood and adolescent mental health (MH) difficulties and political outcomes in adulthood. This represents an important knowledge gap in understanding early individual‐level factors for future political outcomes. Using the Growing up in Ireland cohort, which follows 8568 children from 9 to 20 years, we examine how different MH difficulties, and their co‐occurrence, are associated with various political outcomes. The results show childhood/adolescent MH difficulties are important predictors of political outcomes at age 20. Adolescents with chronic co‐occurring MH difficulties starting in childhood report a lower interest in politics, lower trust in politicians, are less likely to register to vote, but if voting, are more likely to vote for an antiestablishment party. Adolescents with chronic emotional MH difficulties starting in childhood also report lower trust in politicians, are less likely to register to vote, and report a higher likelihood of voting for an antiestablishment party when voting. Additionally, they evidence lower levels of external political efficacy.
Elderly abuse and neglect in digital media: a 1‐year review of Turkish newspaper reports
Authors: Erdoğan Esra , Bilkay Halil İbrahim
Published: February 2025

Introduction

This study focuses on how news of neglect and abuse about elderly individuals is given in digital media and the perception toward elderly individuals.

Methods

Eight national newspapers in Turkey were included in the study for the sample. The news texts were obtained from the digital archives of the newspapers and the term ‘elderly’ was selected as the keyword to accurately search the texts.

Result

The researcher analyzed and divided the collected data into the following categories on elder abuse and neglect: the victim's characteristics, data of the person who inflicted neglect and abuse, the incident's nature and consequences, and the negative concepts mentioned in the incident. The content analysis showed that the related statements and information provided by the media were based on negative concepts and included personal data, including visuals, about the victim.

Conclusions

The findings of the study suggest that elderly individuals, who are a disadvantaged group, are highly exposed to neglect and abuse, and most of them have suffered as they live alone and lack support systems. This study indicated that the media has the potential to raise awareness about neglect and abuse inflicted on the elderly, but it should act more diligently and responsibly.
Diminished Interoceptive Accuracy in Attention‐Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder: A Systematic Review
Authors: M. Bruton Alisha , Levy Laura , Rai Navdeep Kaur , Colgan Dana Dharmakaya , M. Johnstone Jeanette
Published: February 2025

Interoception is the perception of one's internal physiological state. Altered interoception may play a role in the pathogenesis of attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). We reviewed the literature on interoception and ADHD symptoms (inattention, hyperactivity/impulsivity, executive function, emotional dysregulation) in individuals with and without the disorder. Studies included assessments of interoception and ADHD symptoms in (1) individuals with/without diagnoses of ADHD or (2) the general population. Interoception assessments included objective measures (heartbeat‐tracking test) and self‐report questionnaires. The literature search included the PubMed/MEDLINE, PsychINFO, CINAHL and Scopus databases. A protocol was prospectively registered in the PROSPERO database (CRD #42022351726); the PRISMA guidelines directed reporting. The Newcastle–Ottawa scale was adapted to evaluate study quality. Of 636 articles identified, 17 articles (based on 18 studies) met inclusion criteria. Five studies compared interoception in participants with/without ADHD, and three found that interoception was reduced in participants with ADHD. One study compared interoception between presentations of ADHD, finding no differences. Twelve studies assessed the association of ADHD symptoms and interoception in the general population. Overall, results suggested that interoception is reduced in individuals who reported higher symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity, impulsivity, emotional dysregulation, and executive dysfunction. Studies were of moderate quality; issues included small sample sizes and inadequate reporting. Individuals with ADHD may have decreased interoception compared to individuals without. Interoception is negatively associated with ADHD symptoms in the general population. Interventions focused on improving interoceptive abilities may provide an avenue for ADHD treatment. Future work should consider the role of culture in interoception.
The Fertilization of Synbiotic Systems in the Intensive Culture of Penaeus vannamei
Authors: Pimentel Otávio Augusto Lacerda Ferreira , Wasielesky Wilson , Brito Luis Otavio , Roy Luke Aaron , Romano Nicholas , Krummenauer Dariano
Published: February 2025

Over the years, the intensification of shrimp Penaeus vannamei production has brought challenges such as disease outbreaks and increases in the nutrient loading of effluents. To be more environmentally friendly as production systems intensified, it became necessary to create systems with a high degree of biosecurity and toward efficiency in water and land use. Thus, microbial‐based systems, such as the biofloc, were pioneered to support industry growth and market demand for shrimp. Currently, a derivation of biofloc has emerged and is gaining ground in the shrimp industry, which is the synbiotic system. Synbiotic systems are microbially based and are characterized by fertilizing the culture water with vegetable bran (prebiotics) that were processed by fermentation and/or microbial respiration by probiotic microorganisms. The fertilization strategy creates conditions similar to a natural environment by supporting microbial loop development, controlling water quality, and suppressing harmful, and pathogenic microorganisms. The synbiotic system is still new and without standard fertilization protocols, which has leads to dissimilar results between laboratory research and commercial farms. Therefore, this review is focused on describing the different fertilization procedures used in the synbiotic system for P. vannamei intensive culture, the importance of each fertilizer component, as well as the processing strategies. Furthermore, in this study, we seek to demonstrate perspectives and recommend future research topics to better understand the advantages and disadvantages of this production system.
“Can I Speak to the Bossman?” Sources of Stress, Behavioral Adaptations, and Role Incongruency in Female Farmers☆
Authors: Proctor Christina , Hopkins Noah , Reece Chase , Griffeth Lauren Ledbetter
Published: February 2025

Traditional gender expectations and societal norms, along with unique occupational and organizational policies, may make it difficult for women to work in the agricultural industry. The purpose of this study is to apply Role Congruity Theory to female farmers' experience of occupational stress, and to explore behavioral adaptations used to cope with working in a male‐dominated occupation in areas where conventional gender norms are more prominent. Structured interviews were conducted with 16 female farm owners and managers and a thematic analysis approach was used to analyze data. Female farmers reported stress associated with gender stereotyping, misogyny, role expectations, and lack of respect. This study found that women are perceived as incongruent with the male‐dominated agricultural sector, and experience prejudice and harassment substantiating Role Congruity Theory. In addition, participants reported behavioral adaptations such as adopting masculine traits, dressing differently, and overworking or overcompensating, which may be contributing to higher stress levels. Women participating in this study took pride in defying expectations and succeeding in a male‐dominated occupation, but more effort should be made to promote diversity and inclusion in the agricultural industry.
Bank Business Model Identification, Evolution and Outcomes: Evidence for South Africa
Authors: Wilson John O. S. , Nguyen Linh , Sobiech Anna , Kgari Lechedzani
Published: February 2025

This paper presents the findings of an investigation of the type, evolution and impacts on performance of bank business models in South Africa. We identify the various business models used by South African banks using data on the monthly balance sheets of commercial banks made available by the South African Reserve Bank between 1993 and 2022. We cluster banks into different business models based on the composition of their balance sheets. Based on these clusters, we identify business models oriented to wholesale and retail funding, as well as to universal, investment and interbank activities. Overall, our clustering exercise returns six distinct business models. We observe large differences in terms of business size, performance and risk profiles across the business models. We also analyse the evolution of business models over time. The results suggest that banks exhibit relatively stable business models, but where transition exists it tends to be between certain business models. Increased risk is associated with a higher probability of banks shifting business models.
Misoprostol administration mimicking a febrile transfusion reaction
Authors: Yurtsever Nalan , Snyder Edward L.
Published: February 2025

Background

Misoprostol, a synthetic prostaglandin E1 analogue, is widely used in obstetrics for its uterotonic properties. It is known to cause thermogenic side effects, a fact well‐recognized in obstetrics but less familiar in transfusion medicine.

Study Design and Methods

Data were collected through chart review, including temperature recordings, serologic findings, and blood culture results.

Results

This case report describes a postpartum temperature spike to 39.2°C in a G1P0 female who received a red cell transfusion shortly after administration of misoprostol. Serologic workup for transfusion reaction showed no abnormalities, and blood cultures of both the patient and donor were negative for growth. Febrile nonhemolytic transfusion reaction (FNHTR) remained in the differential, however, the fever was attributed to misoprostol's thermogenic effect rather than a transfusion reaction.

Discussion

Increased awareness of misoprostol's thermogenic effects in transfusion medicine may improve differential diagnosis, reduce unnecessary testing, and enhance patient satisfaction by avoiding unwarranted concerns regarding transfusion reactions.
Integrated Control of Verbesina encelioides in Common Bean Fields in the Central Rift Valley of Ethiopia
Authors: Fufa Amare , Tessema Taye , Bekeko Zelalem , Mesfin Tewodros
Published: February 2025

Verbesina encelioides is known to threaten the performance of crops like common bean in central rift valley of Ethiopia. A field experiment was conducted to investigate the effect of management on V. encelioides and common bean yield components and yield at Adamitulu and Melkassa. A randomized complete block design with four replications and twelve treatments was applied. Treatments included pre and postemergence herbicides (s‐metolachlor, pendimethalin, and sodium acifluorfen + clodinafop propargyl) and hand weeding. The density and biomass of V. encelioides were reduced by up to 94% and 81%, respectively, due to integrated control treatments. Beside the weed‐free plot, the use of s‐metolachlor plus hand weeding and pendimethalin plus hand weeding produced the lowest (3%–10%) weed index. Whereas these integrated controls gave the highest (74%–81%) weed control efficiency. Weed‐free plots yielded the highest grain (3.11 and 2.71 t/ha), followed by s‐metolachlor with two hand weedings (3.00 and 2.63 t/ha), while weedy check (0.49 and 0.45 t/ha) and sole pendimethalin 1.5 l/ha (1.28 and 1.12 t/ha) produced the least grain yield at Melkassa and Adamitulu, respectively. The use of s‐metolachlor plus one‐hand weeding, followed by two‐hand weeding, produced a maximum benefit‐cost ratio of 28.41 and 26.95 and an acceptable maximum marginal rate of return of 5689.06 and 5057.27 ETB, respectively. Thus, it is recommended that smetolachlor be used with one‐hand weeding followed by two‐hand weeding or sodium acifluorfen + clodinafop propargyl at 1 l/ha to achieve effective control, higher yield, and economic benefit in common bean production systems.