bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Surveys on new trends of applied mathematics towards research perspectives within a multiscale vision
Authors: Bellomo Nicola , Brezzi Franco , Liao Jie
Published: February 2025

This editorial paper presents the papers published in a special issue focusing on modeling, qualitative analysis, and simulation of the dynamics of systems in the applied and life sciences. All papers lead to a forward look at research perspectives. First, a brief description of the scientific contribution of the papers published in this issue is given. Then, based on the contents of the papers published in this issue, a forward look into research perspectives is designed. An important aspect of the perspectives is the invention of new mathematical tools.
Molecular Communications in Blood Vessels: Models, Analysis, and Enabling Technologies
Authors: Felicetti Luca , Femminella Mauro , Reali Gianluca
Published: February 2025

With applications including drug delivery, advanced diagnosis, and patient monitoring, molecular communications in the bloodstream is a promising area of research.
Embodied Intelligence: A Synergy of Morphology, Action, Perception and Learning
Authors: Liu Huaping , Guo Di , Cangelosi Angelo
Published: February 2025

Embodied intelligence emphasizes that the intelligence is affected by the tight coupling of brain, body and environment. It is continuously and dynamically generated through the process of information perception and physical interaction with the environment. During the past years, the research scope of embodied intelligence has also been expanding and it has attracted great attentions from various communities. At the same time, a huge number of works relevant to embodied intelligence have been proposed, especially in recent several years. In this paper, we present a comprehensive survey of embodied intelligence from the perspective that it is a synergy of morphology, action, perception and learning, providing a thorough summary and categorization of existing studies. Specifically, as the embodied intelligence is a synergy of all these components rather than themselves alone, we mainly focus on the connections across these four components (morphology, action, perception and learning) and identify areas where future research can benefit from their intrinsic connections.
Acoustic Signal‐Based Deep Learning Approach and Device for Detecting Interfacial Voids in Steel–Concrete Composite Structures
Authors: Tian Wei , Yuan Hang , You Xinpeng , Zheng Hehui , Li Bazhou , Peng Chengming
Published: February 2025

The reliable synergy between steel and concrete is an important evaluation criterion for the safety and long‐term use of steel–concrete composite structures (SCCSs). However, it is still a great challenge to realize fast and automated interface void detection for composite structures such as towers. Therefore, the experiments of void detection of the bridge tower full‐scale model were carried out with the background of Zhang Jinggao Yangtze River Bridge and other composite structure bridge towers. An automated inspection robotic device was developed, and a convolutional neural network (CNN) identification and classification model based on excitation vibration acoustic signals for the detection of void damage was proposed. In addition, the applicability of the response characteristics of the acoustic signal to the model and the visualization of the features were discussed. Developed tracked magnetic inspection robots can be applied to a variety of towering and complex confined areas, with real‐time inspection efficiency as high as 0.1 m2/s. The method based on excitation vibration acoustic signal analysis can be used as a new method for the detection of void damage in composite structures dependent on automatic inspection devices. The introduction of Mel spectrum features into the analysis of excitation vibration acoustic signals can improve the accuracy of identifying structural void damage. Compared with the conventional MLP and LSTM neural network models, the constructed Mel Spectrum with CNN model can realize high‐precision classification of damage, health, and invalid data of the composite structural interface, and the classification and recognition accuracy reaches 96.8%. The equipment and method can realize the accurate and fast detection of the interface void of the towering composite structure. It improves the automation of the void detection process and reduces the safety risk of the detection.
Advancing Road Traffic Safety Through Stochastic Modeling: An Innovative Assessment of Emergency Road Rescue Systems With the mn Hypercube Queuing Model
Authors: Gu Yu , Jiang Liping , Liu Han , Zhang Xiaojun , Wei Shibo , Qi Qingjie
Published: February 2025

In light of the escalating global concern over road traffic safety, which claims over a million lives annually, this study endeavors to fortify the foundational structures of emergency road rescue systems (ERRSs) through the lens of advanced theoretical modeling. Recognizing the unpredictability of road accidents in temporal and spatial dimensions, we propose a novel assessment methodology leveraging the mn hypercube queuing model (mn HQM) to account for the stochastic nature of road accidents and the variable service rates driven by demand‐side factors such as geographical location disparities. The essence of our contribution lies in the development of the approximate hypercube queuing (AHQ) algorithm, designed to address the computational complexities inherent in large‐scale ERRS, making it possible to evaluate ERRS under a wide range of scenarios with improved accuracy and efficiency. Validation of the AHQ algorithm demonstrates its reliability and effectiveness in capturing the dynamics of emergency road rescue operations. Further, the application of this novel assessment method to a real‐world road rescue case in the X Mountain area offers critical insights into the system’s performance. These findings underscore the potential of our approach to enhance the operational readiness and responsiveness of ERRS, thereby contributing to the reduction of casualties and losses in the aftermath of road traffic accidents.
Investigating the Link Between Biofilm Formation and Antibiotic Resistance in Clinical Isolates of Acinetobacter baumannii
Authors: Javadi Kasra , Ghaemian Poorya , Baziboron Mana , Pournajaf Abazar
Published: February 2025

Background: Acinetobacter baumannii has become a significant problem in hospitals worldwide during the last decades. Biofilm formation is a virulence factor that may affect antibiotic resistance. This study aimed to elucidate the correlation between biofilm formation and biofilm‐related and oxacillinase genes in A. baumannii clinical isolates.

Methods: This study was conducted on 53 A. baumannii isolates collected from hospitals affiliated with Babol University of Medical Sciences (Babol, Iran) from April to October 2023. Kirby–Bauer disc diffusion was used to determine antibacterial resistance. Biofilm formation was examined using crystal violet staining. Polymerase chain reaction was used to detect oxacillinase (blaOXA−23, blaOXA−24, blaOXA−51, and blaOXA−58) and biofilm‐encoding (bap and blaPER−1) genes using specific primers.

Results: The strains showed the highest resistance to trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole and ciprofloxacin (98.11%) and the lowest resistance to ampicillin/sulbactam (66.03%). All isolates formed biofilms. Also, 67.92%, 18.86%, and 11.32% were strong, moderate, and weak biofilm producers, respectively. The frequencies of blaOXA−23, blaOXA−24, blaOXA−51, bap, and blaPER−1 genes were 92.45%, 71.69%, 100%, 73.58%, and 58.49%, respectively. None of the isolates harbored blaOXA−58.

Conclusions: A high prevalence of antibiotic‐resistant strains was found among A. baumannii clinical isolates. There was no significant correlation between the clinical sample type and biofilm formation, but a notable link was found between antimicrobial resistance and biofilm formation, except for ciprofloxacin. Oxacillinase genes were not significantly correlated with biofilm formation, but biofilm production was associated with bap rather than blaPER−1. Understanding the A. baumannii biofilm formation process is crucial for effective control of associated infections by targeting this mechanism.
Bridging Gaps in Pain Management: The Effectiveness of Educational Intervention for Nurses in a Teaching Hospital of Low‐ and Middle‐Income Countries
Authors: Siddiqui Ali Sarfraz , Zehra Tabassum , Afshan Gauhar , Shakil Sara , Ahmed Aliya
Published: February 2025

Background: Regular on‐the‐job training and educational courses may improve nurses’ knowledge and practice regarding pain assessment and initial treatment.

Objectives: To assess the impact of a newly developed educational course in terms of improvement in knowledge regarding pain assessment and initial treatment by using pretest and posttest multiple‐choice question scores and to determine the retention of knowledge 3 months after the educational course and perceived change in clinical practices among nurses working in adult surgical and medical wards at the Aga Khan University Hospital.

Methods: After getting approval from the institutional review committee, an education course was developed and conducted. A total of 86 participants attended both online and physical components. Teaching methodologies included online lectures, small group tutorials and hands‐on workshops using demonstrations of locally developed videos. Pretests and posttests were conducted to assess the knowledge. All participants were requested to complete an online questionnaire to know the impact of the course on their clinical practice.

Results: Eighty‐six participants completed the course, of which 52 (60.5%) were female and 34 (39.5%) were male. The mean difference between the pretest and posttest scores of participants was 4.72 (39.66%), which was statistically significant (p ≤ 0.001). The mean posttest multiple‐choice question score of participants was 16.70 ± 3.56, and the mean posttest multiple‐choice question score of participants after 3 months was 15.60 ± 4.09 with a mean difference of 1.10 (6.59%), which was not statistically significant (p = 0.121).

Conclusion: The hybrid educational course had a significant learning impact on the knowledge of participants and their clinical practice.
Highly Pathogenic Clade 2.3.4.4b H5N1 Influenza Virus in Seabirds in France, 2022–2023
Authors: Briand Francois-Xavier , Palumbo Loïc , Martenot Claire , Massin Pascale , Cherbonnel Martine , Busson Rachel , Louboutin Katell , Orosco Angelina , Guillemoto Carole , Souchaud Florent , Pierre Isabelle , Hirchaud Edouard , Tasset Manon , Blanchard Yannick , Le Moal Nolwenn , Wiele Anne Van De , Schmitz Audrey , Niqueux Eric , Grasland Béatrice
Published: February 2025

In 2022, a very high number of wild bird deaths associated with the detection of highly pathogenic (HP) H5 avian influenza virus (AIV) lineage Gs/GD/96, clade 2.3.4.4b viruses were unusually observed in Europe between May and September, whereas prior to 2022 most of these HP H5 AIVs detected in wild birds in Europe were almost all detected between October and March and few between April and September. In France, wild birds affected by this virus during this unusual period were mainly seabirds, including larids and sulids. Although the abnormal mortalities in larids and sulids were reported simultaneously, sequencing of the complete genomes of the viruses identified in these seabirds showed that sulids are mainly infected with genotype EA‐2020‐C, whereas larids are mainly infected with genotype EA‐2022‐BB. The identification of these two genotypes, therefore, confirmed that there was no direct link between the abnormal mortality observed in sulids and the abnormal mortality observed in larids. These two seabird mortality events can also be distinguished by the evolutionary pattern of the number of detections. Indeed, sulid mortality associated with the EA‐2020‐C genotype was observed in France only between July and September, corresponding to a single epidemic wave, whereas larid mortality associated with the EA‐2022‐BB genotype began in France and Europe in May 2022 and then this genotype continued to spread among larids in France in the form of several successive epidemic waves until at least September 2023.
Changes in Walking Stability at Different Percentages of Preferred Walking Speed in Healthy Young and Older Adults: Insights From Movement Component Analysis
Authors: Promsri Arunee
Published: February 2025

Walking instability increases the risk of falls and compromises mobility safety. This study aimed to explore the impact of various percentages of preferred walking speed (PWS)—specifically, 40%, 55%, 70%, 85%, 100%, 115%, 130%, and 145%—along with age‐related changes, on walking stability during treadmill walking. Kinematic marker data from all walking speed trials were pooled for analysis, involving a total of 26 participants (13 young adults aged 24.7 ± 2.4 years and 13 older adults aged 60.8 ± 6.4 years). These pooled data were then decomposed into various movement components (i.e., movement strategies), known as principal movements (PMs), using principal component analysis (PCA). These PMs, which resemble the phases of a gait cycle, collectively contribute to the accomplishment of the walking task. The participant‐specific largest Lyapunov exponent (LyE) was employed to assess the local dynamic stability of individual PMs, with lower LyE values indicating higher stability, thereby allowing for the examination of walking speed and age effects. The main findings revealed that only the effects of altered walking speeds were observed; specifically, the LyE value for the midstance phase (PM3) at 100% of PWS was significantly lower than at 40% of PWS (p = 0.001), and there was a trend indicating that the LyE value at 100% of PWS was also lower than at 140% of PWS (p = 0.027). These results suggest that PWS enhances the stability of the mid‐stance‐phase movement component of the gait cycle more than the slower and faster walking speeds during treadmill walking.
Table S4 from A Melanoma Brain Metastasis CTC Signature and CTC:B-cell Clusters Associate with Secondary Liver Metastasis: A Melanoma Brain–Liver Metastasis Axis
Authors: Bowley Tetiana Y. , Ortiz Mireya C. , Lagutina Irina V. , Steinkamp Mara P. , Fahy Bridget N. , Tawfik Bernard , Harari-Turquie Moises , Marchetti Dario
Published: February 2025

Table S4
Table S3 from A Melanoma Brain Metastasis CTC Signature and CTC:B-cell Clusters Associate with Secondary Liver Metastasis: A Melanoma Brain–Liver Metastasis Axis
Authors: Bowley Tetiana Y. , Ortiz Mireya C. , Lagutina Irina V. , Steinkamp Mara P. , Fahy Bridget N. , Tawfik Bernard , Harari-Turquie Moises , Marchetti Dario
Published: February 2025

Table S3
Table S2 from A Melanoma Brain Metastasis CTC Signature and CTC:B-cell Clusters Associate with Secondary Liver Metastasis: A Melanoma Brain–Liver Metastasis Axis
Authors: Bowley Tetiana Y. , Ortiz Mireya C. , Lagutina Irina V. , Steinkamp Mara P. , Fahy Bridget N. , Tawfik Bernard , Harari-Turquie Moises , Marchetti Dario
Published: February 2025

Table S2
Figure S6 from A Melanoma Brain Metastasis CTC Signature and CTC:B-cell Clusters Associate with Secondary Liver Metastasis: A Melanoma Brain–Liver Metastasis Axis
Authors: Bowley Tetiana Y. , Ortiz Mireya C. , Lagutina Irina V. , Steinkamp Mara P. , Fahy Bridget N. , Tawfik Bernard , Harari-Turquie Moises , Marchetti Dario
Published: February 2025

Xenium analyses of HuNBSGW intestine
Figure S4 from A Melanoma Brain Metastasis CTC Signature and CTC:B-cell Clusters Associate with Secondary Liver Metastasis: A Melanoma Brain–Liver Metastasis Axis
Authors: Bowley Tetiana Y. , Ortiz Mireya C. , Lagutina Irina V. , Steinkamp Mara P. , Fahy Bridget N. , Tawfik Bernard , Harari-Turquie Moises , Marchetti Dario
Published: February 2025

IVIS MBM quantification of the second generation CDX
Figure 3 from A Melanoma Brain Metastasis CTC Signature and CTC:B-cell Clusters Associate with Secondary Liver Metastasis: A Melanoma Brain–Liver Metastasis Axis
Authors: Bowley Tetiana Y. , Ortiz Mireya C. , Lagutina Irina V. , Steinkamp Mara P. , Fahy Bridget N. , Tawfik Bernard , Harari-Turquie Moises , Marchetti Dario
Published: February 2025

Commonality and upregulation of the MBM RPL/RPS CTC gene signature in the second-generation huNBSGW CDXs. A, RNA-seq gene expression profiling showing distinct clustering patterns between cells of liver (green) and brain (red) metastasis (right). Upregulation of the CTC RPL/RPS gene signature in MBM-generated liver metastasis vs. MBM is shown (left) as calculated in counts per million. Mean values of the 21 RPL/RPS members of the CTC signature are indicated (red). B, Statistically significant RNA-seq pathways generated by Reactome database analysis. Pathways highlighted in yellow are the same of RPL/RPS CTC gene expression pathways (1). AMPA stands for α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid. See “Materials and Methods” for experimental details. MBM, melanoma brain metastasis.
Figure 2 from A Melanoma Brain Metastasis CTC Signature and CTC:B-cell Clusters Associate with Secondary Liver Metastasis: A Melanoma Brain–Liver Metastasis Axis
Authors: Bowley Tetiana Y. , Ortiz Mireya C. , Lagutina Irina V. , Steinkamp Mara P. , Fahy Bridget N. , Tawfik Bernard , Harari-Turquie Moises , Marchetti Dario
Published: February 2025

The melanoma brain–liver metastasis axis. A and B, MBM-generated liver metastasis and MBM of second-generation mice. MBM/liver metastasis (yellow arrows) from second-generation huNBSGW (A) and NBSGW (B) mice engrafted via intracardiac injection with first-generation CDX MBM cells (5.0 × 10E5 cells/animal). Quantification of liver metastasis shows higher %, number, and size of liver metastasis in huNBSGW mice (bottom). C, Statistical significance (***, P value < 0.001) for the presence of brain (MBM) and liver metastases, showing distinct onset in the second-generation CDXs injected with blood- vs. MBM-dissociated cells from first-generation CDXs. See “Materials and Methods” for experimental details. MBM, melanoma brain metastasis.
УРОГЕНІТАЛЬНА СИМПТОМАТИКА ТА ПОРУШЕННЯ МІКРОБІОТИ СЛИЗОВОЇ ПІХВИ – ПОЧАТКОВІ СИМПТОМИ НЕСПРОМОЖНОСТІ ТАЗОВОГО ДНА У ЖІНОК РАННЬОГО РЕПРОДУКТИВНОГО ВІКУ
Authors: Чередарчук А. Р. , Макарчук О. М.
Published: February 2025

Мета дослідження – оцінити частоту та особливості уродинамічних та дисбіотичних порушень при тазовій дисфункції у жінок раннього репродуктивного віку з високим паритетом пологів.
Матеріали та методи. У дослідження було включено 80 пацієнток віком 18–35 років із високим паритетом пологів (більше трьох пологів) (основна група) та початковими формами генітального пролапсу і 40 пацієнток без пролапсу тазового дна (група порівняння). Оцінку ступеня тяжкості інконтиненції сечі проведено відповідно до класифікації Міжнародного товариства нетримання сечі (ICS).
Результати дослідження та їх обговорення. Провідними чинниками стали високий паритет пологів, спадковість, макросомія плода, інструментальне розродження пологів і травма пологових шляхів, а також висока частка маркерів недиференційованої дисплазії сполучної тканини. У 92,5 % випадків виявлено опущення передньої стінки піхви I стадії та стресове нетримання сечі. Найчастішими симптомами є пальпація випинання/протрузії (93,75 %) або відчуття стороннього тіла у піхві (83,75 %), а також посилена секреторна функція внаслідок зяяння статевої щілини (93,75 %). Ще одним важливим симптомом є прояви сексуальної дисфункції (33,75 %). Нетримання не обмежується сечею, оскільки у 28,75 % спостережень серед жінок із високим паритетом пологів мають місце симптоми фекальної інконтиненції. Нормобіоценоз не встановлено у жодної пацієнтки обох груп.
Висновки. Неспроможність тазового дна у пацієнток із високим паритетом пологів є клінічним станом, що суттєво впливає на якість життя та підвищує частку урогенітальних розладів, серед яких домінують нетримання сечі, диспареунія, фекальна інконтиненція та порушення мікробіому слизової піхви.
УШКОДЖЕННЯ ПОЗАПЕЧІНКОВИХ ПРОТОК. СУЧАСНИЙ ПОГЛЯД НА ПРОБЛЕМУ
Authors: КУЧИНСЬКИЙ І. О. , ЗАПОРОЖАН С. Й. , ХОМЕНКО В. С. , ТРИГУБА О. Б.
Published: February 2025

Мета роботи: дослідити причини, ризики, профілактику та лікування ушкоджень позапечінкових жовчних проток, зокрема, під час виконання холецистектомії, а також проаналізувати сучасні методи інтраопераційної діагностики та відновлення цілісності біліарного дерева.
Матеріали і методи. Використано літературний аналіз даних щодо частоти біліарних травм, сучасних методів хірургічних втручань (класичних та мініінвазивних), методів інтраопераційної візуалізації (холангіографію, флуоресцентну візуалізацію), способів реконструкції (гепатикоєюностомію).
Результати. Біліарні травми є тяжкими ускладненнями, що часто виникають під час виконання лапароскопічної холецистектомії. Це зумовлено особливостями техніки та складністю ідентифікації анатомічних структур у гепатодуоденальній зоні. Проведений аналіз свідчить про ефективність використання інтраопераційних методів візуалізації, таких, як холангіографія, що може сприяти зменшенню ризику ушкодження жовчних проток, покращуючи візуалізацію анатомії. Для лікування незначних ушкоджень особ­ливу увагу приділено ендоскопічній ретроградній холангіопанкреатографії (ЕРХПГ), яка є діагностичним і терапевтичним методом. Вона дозволяє забезпечити відтік жовчі, усунути дрібні дефекти та зменшити післяопераційні ускладнення. Водночас, ключову роль у зниженні частоти біліарних травм відіграють досвід хірурга, що підтверджується кривою навчання: ризик значно знижується після перших 100–200 виконаних операцій. Стандартизація підходу до діагностики та лікування забезпечується використанням класифікацій, таких, як Bismuth та Strasberg, які систематизують типи травм залежно від їхньої анатомічної локалізації та ступеня ушкодження. Це дозволяє лікарям швидше приймати оптимальні клінічні рішення та знижувати частоту ускладнень.
Висновки. Біліарна травма – серйозна проблема з високими ризиками для пацієнта. Сучасні методи інтраопераційної візуалізації є важливими для мінімізації травм. Пацієнтів із серйозними ушкодженнями необхідно направляти до спеціалізованих центрів. Мініінвазивні техніки лікування мають пріоритет.
ОСОБЛИВОСТІ МОРФОЛОГІЧНИХ ЗМІН У ПОПЕРЕКОВІЙ ЧАСТИНІ ДІАФРАГМИ ЩУРІВ: ЕКСПЕРИМЕНТАЛЬНЕ ДОСЛІДЖЕННЯ
Authors: ДЗЮБАНОВСЬКИЙ І. Я. , ГОЛОВАТА Т. К. , КРІЦАК М. Ю.
Published: February 2025

Мета роботи: визначити морфологічні зміни у ніжках діафрагми щура після перенесеного карбоксиперитонеуму (КП) із внут­рішньочеревним тиском 5 мм рт. ст. протягом різного проміжку часу.
Матеріали і методи. Експериментальне дослідження виконано на 50 щурах віком 6 місяців та масою тіла (225,0±20,0) г. Поділили тварин на 5 груп, одна – інтактна група для вивчення морфології діафрагми в нормі й чотири групи особин, яких піддавали впливу КП із внутрішньочеревним тиском 5 мм рт. ст. протягом різного часу. Після цього проводили забір діафрагми.
Результати. Морфологічні зміни залежали від тривалості КП. Найменші зміни відбувались через 1 год. Гістологічна структура майже не відрізнялася від інтактної групи тварин. Поперечно-посмуговані м’язові волокна у більшості випадків зберігали компактне розташування і мали чітко візуалізовану поперечну посмугованість на поздовжніх зрізах. Ядра переважно мономорфні й однорідні за забарвленням, мали традиційну локалізацію під мембраною. Спостерігався набряк саркоплазми, який збільшував міжфібрилярні простори. Характер кровонаповнення суттєво не відрізнявся. Через 5 год м’язові волокна зберігали компактне розташування, але їх межі розмивалися і втрачалася диференціація зі стромою. Саркоплазма мала неоднорідне забарвлення – інтенсивно еозинофільні ділянки перескорочення чергуються із гіпохромними. В артеріолах мав місце набряк стінок, десквамація ендотелію та помірне кровонаповнення. Перивазально у стромі, розрихленій набряком, спостерігаються клітинні інфільтрати, у складі яких переважають макрофаги і лімфоцити, а також наявні фібробласти. На препаратах, отриманих через 14 діб після створеного пневмоперитонеуму, були поперечно-посмуговані м’язові волокна, що утворювали щільний пласт, поперечна посмугованість збережена. В ендомізії та перимізії були місця посиленого колагеноутворення. На поперечному перерізі міофібрили мали компактне розташування. Судинне русло характеризувалося помірним венозним повнокров’ям з ознаками стазу крові у гемокапілярах і закапілярних венулах. Тут же наявна у невеликій кількості й жирова тканина.
Висновки. Карбоксиперитонеум викликає морфоструктурні зміни у ніжках діафрагми, прояв яких залежить від тривалості цього чинника. М’язові волокна діафрагми набухали, міофібрили набували хвилеподібної конфігурації, поперечна посмугованість візуалізувалася фрагментарно, проте зберігалось компактне розташування. Саркоплазма забарвлювалась нерівномірно з осередками вакуолізації, гомогенізації і лізису.
Escrita Epífita: Tradução do El Licenciado Torralba de Ramón de Campoamor por D. Pedro II
Authors: Sackl Ana Maria B. Conrad
Published: February 2025

The aim of this study is to analyze the translation manuscript made by Pedro II (Brazilian Emperor), of the work entitled El Licenciado Torralba by Ramón de Campoamor from Spanish into Portuguese. The manuscript dates from 1889 and was made during the deposed Emperor's exile trip. It is contained in a small book, the initial pages of which have been lost. The translation, written in pencil, is superimposed on the Spanish work, which I call Epiphyte. It is a poem in eight chapters, of which 174 pages have been translated. Today it belongs to the library of the Mariano Procópio Museum in Juiz de Fora, Minas Gerais, Brazil, and was discovered in April 2024. In this text I present a brief genetic dossier, which elucidates the translator's Hispanic interest and engagement in the literary and cultural conjuncture of the 19th century, and a summary that brushes over the lost initial pages of the work and brings context to the leitmotif of the work. Finally, I present an analysis of two translated pages in the light of genetic criticism.
Use of Advanced Echocardiographic Modalities to Discriminate Preclinical Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy Mutation Carriers From Non-Carriers
Authors: Lo Ada K.C. , Mew Thomas , Mew Christina , Guppy-Coles Kristyan , Dahiya Arun , Ng Arnold , McGaughran Julie , McCormack Louise , Prasad Sandhir , Atherton John J.
Published: February 2025

BACKGROUND:

It remains challenging to determine which hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) family members will subsequently develop HCM. Standard 2-dimensional and conventional Doppler echocardiography have been unable to reliably distinguish HCM genotype-positive and phenotype-negative (G+P−) from genotype-negative and phenotype-negative (G−P−) family members. We aimed to determine if advanced echocardiographic modalities can discriminate HCM G+P− from G−P− individuals.

METHODS:

Comprehensive echocardiography including speckle tracking evaluation of myocardial deformation and color M-mode were performed in 199 participants aged ≥16 years who had undergone genetic testing from families with a known HCM pathogenic variant: 58 G+P−, 39 G−P−, and 102 overt patients with HCM (genotype-positive and phenotype-positive). The primary analysis compared these measures in all G+P− and G−P− individuals. A secondary analysis was undertaken in younger subjects (age ≤40 years).

RESULTS:

Comparing G+P− and G−P− individuals, there were no significant differences in left ventricular ejection fraction, cavity size, wall thickness and outflow tract gradient, and tissue Doppler-derived myocardial velocities; however, septal/posterior wall thickness ratio was higher (1.06±0.09 versus 1.02±0.04,
P
=0.007). G+P− individuals had significantly lower color M-mode flow propagation velocity (color M-mode velocity propagation, 42.6 cm/s [interquartile range, 34.5–48.5 cm/s] versus 51.0 cm/s [interquartile range, 45.2–61.0 cm/s];
P
<0.001) and higher global longitudinal strain (
P
=0.021), circumferential strain (
P
=0.003), and peak apical rotation (
P
=0.005). Multivariable logistic regression identified 2 independent predictors (color M-mode velocity propagation and peak apical rotation). A derived regression equation allowed reasonable discrimination of G+P− individuals with a sensitivity of 82.6% and specificity of 72.2% (
P
<0.0001) at the optimal cutoff. Similar findings were demonstrated when the analysis was restricted to younger subjects, although in addition to color M-mode velocity propagation and apical rotation, left ventricular ejection fraction was also independently predictive.

CONCLUSIONS:

In HCM family members, color M-mode velocity propagation and apical rotation provide good sensitivity and specificity for identifying mutation carriers and may represent early disease markers before the onset of hypertrophy. Longitudinal studies involving larger cohorts are required to validate these findings.
A Woman, a Snake, and a Bear-Woman: An Intertextual Reading of the Garden of Eden Story (gen 2:4b–3:24) In Relation to a Korean Origin Myth
Authors: Choi Park Caroline
Published: February 2025

This article seeks an alternative interpretation of the Garden of Eden story by reading it intertextually with a Korean origin myth, Dangun Shinhwa. Reflecting the animistic Korean indigenous culture, the myth portrays fluid boundaries between humans, animals, and gods, serving to undermine commonly anthropocentric and androcentric interpretations of the biblical story. Cued by animistic aspects of Dangun Shinhwa, the first part of the article rereads Genesis 2 through animism, leading to different interpretations of the characters—human and nonhuman beings and God—and the ontology of their world. Thus informed, the second part reads Gen 3 alongside Dangun Shinhwa, which features a bear who becomes a woman and later the mother of Korean people. The reading yields an alternative meaning to the familiar story about the human loss of connections and soul unawareness, foretelling the tragedy of today’s carno-phallogocentric world.
The ethological shortfall: case study of an endangered shorebird
Authors: Miller Edward H. , Tomkovich Pavel S. , Arkhipov Vladimir Yu. , Vyn Gerrit
Published: February 2025

Poor knowledge of animal behaviour impedes understanding of ecology and evolution and reduces human appreciation of the natural world. We call this the ‘ethological shortfall’, parallel to Linnean and other knowledge shortfalls in conservation biology and systematics. We analysed sound recordings of breeding spoon-billed sandpipers (Scolopacidae: Calidris pygmaea), a critically endangered species. Sixteen years of field research, and a focused short-term study, provided material for our study. All the species’ calls are unique within its clade; hence our findings have immediate practical use for detecting individuals within the breeding period. No sound recordings exist for the lengthy non-breeding period, when most anthropogenic impacts occur. This gap needs to be filled, so that inventories and automated detection can be conducted in that period. We discovered information that is new and has scientific and practical applications at both the species and higher taxonomic levels (e.g., species-specificity of brief ‘alarm’ notes). We conclude that a useful account of endangered species’ behaviour can be obtained through first-hand knowledge of natural history, a research plan based on knowledge of related species, and targeted sampling.
Flow state, resilience, and performance strategies in elite three-day eventing equestrian athletes
Authors: Johnson A.E. , Carson S.
Published: February 2025

This study investigated the roles of psychological resilience, performance strategies, and flow state in elite equestrian three-day event riders, building on previous equestrian sport literature and bridging the gap in research about three-day eventing athletes relative to athletes in other equestrian disciplines. In order to better understand personal traits and states in athletes and individuals in high-physical-risk and sustained focus performance domains, this study examined baseline resilience levels, performance strategies used in specific competitions, and the flow state of event riders in those same competitions. The objective was to determine if performance strategies employed by elite three-day eventing athletes were related to baseline resilience and flow state characteristics, and if baseline resilience levels were related to levels of flow state within the group. Participants included 94 international level three-day eventing athletes (15 males, 78 females, 1 undisclosed; age 31.5 ± 8.85) competing in the United States in the Spring 2021 Fédération Equestre International eventing season. Results demonstrated a modest but significant correlation (, ) between baseline resilience levels (measured by the CD-RISC-10) and flow state (measured by the Flow Short Scale) for all athletes. Performance strategies were measured by the Test of Performance Strategies (TOPS). Regression analyses indicated that the performance strategies subscales of emotional control and negative thinking were found to predict flow state (, , ). The sub-scales of goal setting, automaticity, emotional control, and self-talk predicted resilience (, , ). No significant findings emerged between an athlete’s highest level of experience and their resilience scores (, ) or flow scores (, ). This study indicates a self-selection of riders in the elite levels of three-day eventing based on those who already demonstrate high levels of resilience as well as high propensity for experiencing flow state in competition.
The Development of Ci Poetry Criticism in Song Literary Miscellanies: an Evaluation of Li Yu, Liu Yong, and Su Shi
Authors: Ding Fang
Published: February 2025

The literary miscellanies of the Song dynasty offer a rich corpus of material on ci poetry, including comprehensive analyses of three seminal ci poets from the Five Dynasties period and the Song dynasty: Li Yu, Liu Yong, and Su Shi. Li Yu holds the distinction of being the first literati ci poet in Chinese literary history. Liu Yong made significant contributions to the evolution of ci forms and techniques, while Su Shi revolutionized the style of ci and elevated its artistic realm. The literary miscellanies of the Song dynasty offer extensive commentary on these three poets, providing valuable insights into the evolution of ci poetry. In their analyses, the Song literati bifurcated Li Yu’s ci oeuvre into pre- and post-dynastic fall. They expressed sympathy for his ill-fated life, acknowledging his superior literary talents in contrast to his political abilities, and lauded his ci works that articulated “the sorrowful and contemplative tones of a fallen dynasty.” These scholars recognized Li Yu’s contribution in giving voice to the literati through the medium of ci. Liu Yong’s ci received mixed evaluations; while his vulgar style was both criticized and affirmed, his prolific creation of manci and narrative techniques garnered general approval. Regarding Su Shi, the literati commended his elevation of ci’s literary quality and his pioneering of the bold and unconstrained style. They offered nuanced critiques of his musical deficiencies in ci composition and his approach of composing ci as a secondary pursuit. The literary miscellanies also present balanced assessments of the debate between Liu and Su’s respective styles. These discussions are instrumental in laying the foundation for a systematic criticism of Chinese ci poetry.
Gryllus locorojo or Gryllus assimilis? – PCR-based differentiation of two commonly confused crickets for pet and livestock feeding
Authors: König F. , Zagon J. , Garino C. , Winkel M.
Published: February 2025

A real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based protocol (Gloco-PCR) was validated to specifically detect Gryllus locorojo, a Gryllus species on the European market often mistaken for Gryllus assimilis. Whereas the latter species is allowed in the EU for feeding farmed animals, G. locorojo is only permitted for pets according to the current legislation. The method was developed on the basis of the cytochrome oxidase I gene, (COI), which was sequenced with thoroughly characterised G. locorojo and G. assimilis samples. The method is highly sensitive, detecting 0.8 pg G. locorojo-DNA or 0.1% G. locorojo incurred in feed, respectively. Authentic G. assimilis specimens were used to ensure that the G. locorojo method (Gloco-PCR) discriminates this closely related sister taxon, with a comfortable Ct-difference of 10-15. For cross analysis of true G. assimilis, similar primers with another probe were employed (Gassim-PCR) and the annealing temperature was increased from 60 °C to 62 °C. Under these conditions, authentic G. assimilis crickets were detectable with Ct-values around 20, while G. locorojo samples showed a low detection at cycles around Ct 35. An investigation of ten ‘G. assimilis’ samples collected from Germany and four other European countries revealed that all of them were of the G. locorojo type. This proves the usefulness of our approach and supports the assumption that many G. assimilis crickets marketed in the EU indeed belong to the species G. locorojo. Consequently, European legislation, currently based on a white list of allowed insect species, is critically questioned.
Morphology and molecular phylogeny of Virescentia guangxiensis (Batrachospermaceae, Rhodophyta)
Authors: GUO WEI-NAN , NAN FANG-RU , HE ZHONG-SHI , LIU XU-DONG , LIU YANG , LIU QI , FENG JIA , XIE SHU-LIAN
Published: February 2025

Two collections of freshwater red algae from Zhejiang and Shanxi Province in China are described morphologically and their phylogenetic relationships investigated through molecular sequencing of the rbcL and COI genes. The molecular sequences show a close relationship to Virescentia guangxiensis, a species previously reported from Guangxi and Henan Province, China, particularly through robust support values for rbcL (97/0.95, 70/0.86 ML and BI, respectively) and COI (100/1.00). Morphologically, one sample is a multiseriate gametophyte stage, the other a uniseriate ‘Chantransia’ stage. The gametophyte morphology is consistent with that reported for Virescentia guangxiensis, including key features such as spirally twisted carpogonial branches, spherical spermatangia and carpogonium with clavate trichogynes. Both samples are therefore identified as Virescentia guangxiensis, extending the morphological, genetic and geographical range of this species.
Bibionidae (Diptera: Bibionomorpha) from Uruguay: updated inventory including first reports of four species
Authors: SILVA VITOR C. PACHECO DA , SCHELESKY-PRADO DANIEL DE C. , FITZGERALD SCOTT J. , SERRA WILSON SEBASTIÁN , SCARABINO FABRIZIO , COSTA ANDRÉS , HAGOPIÁN DAMIÁN , MARTÍNEZ MARÍA
Published: February 2025

Bibionidae is a family of flies known as March flies or lovebugs. An updated list of March flies analyzed until now from Uruguay is presented. The data provided here are based on specimens deposited in the two larger Uruguayan entomological collections, new samples and literature records of Bibionidae in Uruguay. Eight species from three genera are recorded in the country, namely: Bibio Geoffroy, with the species Bibio dacunhai Hardy, Dilophus Meigen with four species, Dilophus collaris Guérin-Méneville, Dilophus pectoralis Wiedemann, Dilophus aff. tetracanthus and Dilophus sp. 1; and Plecia Wiedemann, with three species, Plecia collaris (Fabricius), Plecia gibbosa Hardy and Plecia ramosa Fitzgerald. Unidentified morphospecies were observed in iNaturalist records indicating that more species must be present in the country. Besides, a different morph of P. gibbosa, named here as Plecia aff. gibbosa may represent another species. Bibio dacunhai, P. collaris, P. gibbosa and P. ramosa as well as the genera Bibio and Plecia, are recorded for the first time in Uruguay. Additionally, species previously recorded from Uruguay are discussed and the first record of wild boar feeding on Bibionidae larvae in the Neotropical region is reported.
Notes on the rare Pahang Mud Snake (Kualatahan pahangensis) (Tweedie 1946) (Squamata: Homalopsidae) endemic to Peninsular Malaysia with comments on its taxonomy and a range extension for the species
Authors: QUAH EVAN S.H. , SYAFIQ MUHAMAD F. , JR. PERRY L. WOOD , GRISMER L. LEE , BADLI-SHAM BAIZUL H. , AHMAD AMIRRUDIN
Published: February 2025

The Pahang Mud Snake (Kualatahan pahangensis) (Tweedie 1946) is a rare species of homalopsid known only from four specimens. In this study we report on a relatively recently collected specimen from Merapoh, Pahang, Peninsular Malaysia, compared with previously collected material. Variations in pholidosis and colour pattern were noted and discussed. The species is morphologically similar in body shape and colour pattern to the sympatric Hypsiscopus plumbeus, for which additional data is presented for Peninsular Malaysian specimens to clarify possible taxonomic confusions. The new record represents a range extension for the species of ~ 47 km to the west and is the third report of the species from the state of Pahang.
Informed consent in neurosurgery with particular reference to alternatives to proposed surgery. Updated case law including McCulloch.
Authors: Todd Nicholas , Wright-Todd James
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Informed consent is a crucial element in neurosurgical practice; failures of the consenting process are a common cause of litigation in neurosurgery and judgments that have particular relevance to neurosurgical practice will be reviewed here. Guidance for consent based upon current case law is discussed.

Methods

The legal databases BAILII and WestLaw were searched using the search term “informed consent”. The BAILII search yielded 86 abstracts, WestLaw yielded 33. There were 15 duplicates. Ten of the remaining 104 abstracts were commentaries, leaving 94 judgments. From those judgments a further 21 cases were added. A total of 115 judgments were reviewed by both authors.

Results

A total of 23 judgments dealing with issues of informed consent in neurosurgical and other surgical practice were selected. The cases and their implications for neurosurgical consent are discussed below.

Discussion

When proposing a surgical procedure to a competent adult, the treating surgeon must discuss the benefits, risks and alternatives to treatment with the patient. The surgeon can be guided by professional guidance from the GMC, or another professional body, and/or case law. Relevant issues include: (i) the risks and benefits of surgery; (ii) information that is accurate (or inaccurate, incorrect, missing or late information); (iii) established practice; (iv) the current state of knowledge; (v) reasonable alternative treatments; and (vi) surgery performed on a different day or by a different surgeon.
Virtual screening combined with molecular docking for the !identification of new anti-adipogenic compounds
Authors: Mandujano-Lázaro Gilberto , Torres-Rojas María F , Ramírez-Moreno Esther , Marchat Laurence A
Published: February 2025

Obesity is an important risk factor for diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and cancer, reducing the quality of life and expectancy of millions of people. Consequently, obesity has turned into one of the most health public problems worldwide, which highlights the urgent need for new and safe treatments. Obesity is mainly related to excessive fat accumulation; therefore, proteins participating in white adipose tissue increase and dysfunction are considered pertinent and attractive targets for developing new methods that can help with body weight control. In this context, virtual screening of libraries containing a large number of molecules represents a valuable strategy for the identification of potential anti-adipogenic compounds with reduced costs and time production. Here, we review the scientific literature about the prediction of new ligands of specific proteins through molecular docking and virtual screening of chemical libraries, with the aim of proposing new potential anti-adipogenic molecules. First, we present the targets related to adipogenesis and adipocyte functions that were selected for the following studies: PPARγ, Crif1, SIRT1, ERβ, PC1, FTO, Mss51, and FABP4. Then, we describe the obtention of new ligands according to the characteristics of the virtual screening approach, i.e. a structure-based drug design (SBDD) or a ligand-based drug design (LBDD). Finally, the critical analysis of these computational strategies and the corresponding results points out the necessity of combining computational and in vitro or in vivo assays for the identification of effective new anti-adipogenic molecules for obesity control. It also evidences that translating molecular docking and virtual screening results into successful drug candidates for adipogenesis and obesity control remains a huge challenge.
Implications of Divine Forgiveness for Conciliatory Behavior: Understanding How Feeling Forgiven by God Influences Apologies Via Self-Forgiveness, Gratitude, and Humility
Authors: Ludwig Justin M. , Koetke Jonah , Schumann Karina
Published: February 2025

In the current research, we tested the downstream effects of divine forgiveness (i.e., perceived forgiveness by God) on interpersonal apology behavior through two counteracting pathways: an inhibiting pathway through self-forgiveness and a facilitating pathway through gratitude and humility. In Study 1 ( N = 435), using recalled offenses, we found that higher perceived divine forgiveness was positively associated with self-forgiveness, which in turn was negatively associated with apology behavior. In Study 2 ( N = 531), using recalled offenses and an experimental design, we replicated our findings from Study 1 whereby divine forgiveness (vs. control) promoted greater self-forgiveness, which in turn was negatively associated with apology behavior. However, we found positive indirect effects of divine forgiveness on apology behavior via the serial mediators of gratitude and humility. Together, these studies offer insight into how divine forgiveness can both hinder and encourage transgressors’ constructive responses to conflict through different psychological mechanisms.
Children’s literature and/as political critique: Storying the violences of exclusionary politics
Authors: Jarvis Lee , Robinson Nick
Published: February 2025

The forcible removal of unwanted individuals from the body politic – as, say, illicit migrants or terrorists – is a prominent feature of contemporary world politics. This prominence, and its typical storying from the vantage point of the national or communal ‘self’ needing protection, risks rendering exclusionary politics and their considerable harms unremarkable, even unremarked. In this article, we argue that children’s literature offers a powerful, yet largely overlooked, resource for illuminating, engaging, and critiquing such practices. Drawing on examples from three prominent and enduringly popular texts – The Enchanted Wood, The Lion Who Wanted to Love, and Where the Wild Things Are – we show that the centring of excluded subjects in these books helps to render visible (1) the contestable, and often arbitrary, grounds for exclusion from existing communities and (2) the threatened or actual violence that underpins exclusionary decisions and processes. In doing this, the books offer powerful demonstration of the capacity of children’s literature – and popular culture more broadly – to expose and mount critique of emerging trends in world politics.