bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clinical, Prognostic, and Longitudinal Functional and Neuropsychological Features of West Nile Virus Neuroinvasive Disease in the United States: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Roberts Jackson A. , Kim Carla Y. , Hwang Soonmyung A. , Hassan Amir , Covington Ethan , Heydari Kimia , Lyerly Mac , Sejvar James J. , Hasbun Rodrigo , Prasad Manya , Thakur Kiran T.
Published: February 2025

Objective

West Nile virus (WNV) is the most common cause of arboviral disease in the United States. Approximately 1% of infections involve the nervous system, most commonly resulting in West Nile encephalitis (WNE), West Nile meningitis (WNM), or acute flaccid paralysis (AFP).

Methods

In this systematic review, we characterized comprehensively the diagnostic and clinical features of WNV neuroinvasive disease (WNND) in the United States, as well as the evidence regarding prognostic factors and long‐term outcomes of WNND.

Results

We identified 47 relevant studies reporting data on acute or longitudinal features of WNND. Across studies, the most common presenting symptoms were fever (88%), nausea/vomiting (58%), and fatigue (50%) coupled neurologically with headache (50%), altered mental status (39%), and focal weakness (32%). Pooled mortality was 9.2%, and 42.1% of reported cases required intensive care unit (ICU) admission. In meta‐analyses, chronic kidney disease (odds ratio [OR] = 5.99, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 2.71–13.23), diabetes mellitus (OR = 2.43, 95% CI = 1.54–3.84), and hypertension (OR = 4.01, 95% CI = 2.39–6.72) were associated with an increased risk of mortality. Multidomain neurocognitive impairment was reported in several studies at post‐hospitalization follow‐up, although with marked heterogeneity between study methodology. Subjective neurocognitive impairment, most notably fatigue (37–75%), memory concerns (11–57%), concentration deficits (17–48%), and depression (17–38%), were also common at post‐hospitalization follow‐up.

Interpretation

These findings underscore the significant mortality and morbidity of WNND in the acute and long‐term setting. Our findings may additionally provide utility for risk stratification of hospitalized patients with WNND and suggest the need for further evaluation of novel therapeutics to prevent substantial disease‐associated acute and long‐term disability. ANN NEUROL 2025
Anion Adsorption at the Inner‐Helmholtz Plane Directs Cathode Electrolyte Interphase Formation
Authors: Ji Yuchen , Huang Yuxiang , Dong Zihang , Fang Jianjun , Liu Peng , Liu Shiqi , Cao Aimin , Xue Haoyu , Chen Shiming , Qiu Jimin , Du Peng-Hu , Xie Kunchen , Xue Shida , Shen Tao , Zheng Guorui , Zhao Xiyao , Yin Zu-Wei , Yang Kai , Lin Hai , Xu Kang , Pan Feng , Yang Luyi
Published: February 2025

Constructing a stable cathode‐electrolyte‐interphase (CEI) on cathode surface constitutes the foundation of realizing high‐voltag­e Li‐ion batteries, yet its formation, a highly heterogeneous process involving irreversible reactions between electrolyte components and cathode materials, remains poorly understood. Herein, combining multiple in‐situ/operando interfacial characterization techniques, we establish the correlation between interfacial structure and interphasial chemistry, and reveal the key role played by adsorptive behavior of various electrolyte components in the inner‐Helmholtz plane during CEI formation. Quartz crystal microbalance equipped with dissipation modification detects that difluorooxalatoborate (DFOB‐) anion preferentially adsorbed on LiCoO2 tends to expel carbonate solvents from the adsorption layer, thus suppressing their electrochemical decomposition at high voltages and leading to a more compact CEI derived from anions with limited contribution from organic ingredients. Consequently, the CoO2 lattice structure protected by the dense CEI remains intact despite near‐complete delithiation, thereby ensuring excellent cycling stability for 4.7 V operation of LiCoO2 cathode. The atomistic‐level insight into the key factors that govern CEI formation provides directive knowledge that accelerates electrolyte design for high‐voltage batteries.
On Outage Performance and Ergodic Capacity Analysis of Two User NOMA in a Cooperative Cognitive Radio Network With an Energy Harvesting Relay
Authors: Baranwal Alok , Sarkar Hritwika , Sharma Shashibhushan , Kundu Sumit
Published: February 2025

In this paper, a dual‐hop cooperative nonorthogonal multiple access (NOMA) scheme is investigated in which two independent sources communicate simultaneously with their respective destinations over Rayleigh fading channel sharing a common time switching relay (TSR)‐based energy harvesting decode and forward (DF) relay in an underlay cognitive radio network (CRN). A TSR protocol is used at the relay for harvesting energy from the signals of the two sources. After successful decoding the symbols of the sources using successive interference cancellation (SIC), the relay transmits a superposition coded (SC) composite signal to the destinations following downlink NOMA where SIC is performed at the destinations. Novel analytical expressions on outage probability of each user pair, system outage probability, and ergodic capacity of each user pair are derived. The transmit power allocation of each source satisfying an outage constraint of PU is obtained by solving a transcendental equation. A statistical distribution of the power harvested at the relay from two independent sources is also presented. Impact of tolerable interference threshold at the PU receiver, constraint on PU outage is indicated on outage and ergodic capacity of users. Monte Carlo simulation is performed using a testbed developed in MATLAB, and simulation results agree well with analytical results.
Survival and Developmental Progression of Unselected Thymocytes in the Absence of the T‐Cell Adaptor Gads
Authors: Shalah Rose , Marzouk Manal , Hallumi Enas , Klopstock Naama , Yablonski Deborah
Published: February 2025

Thymocyte β‐selection and positive‐selection depend on TCR signaling via the immune adaptors SLP‐76 and LAT. Gads bridges the recruitment of SLP‐76 to LAT, yet is not required for the maturation of single positive (SP) thymocytes. To illuminate this paradox, we performed tamoxifen‐induced ablation of Gads (GadsiKO), accompanied by the expression of tdTomato, and compared the development of Gads‐expressing (Tom−) and Gads‐ablated (Tom+) thymocytes within the same mouse. GadsiKO (Tom+) thymocytes exhibited impaired β‐ and positive‐selection, yet δ‐selection was not affected. While susceptible to apoptosis ex vivo, the marked accumulation of self‐MHC nonresponding (CD5−) GadsiKO DP thymocytes suggested the possibility of impaired death by neglect in situ. Further supporting this notion, GadsiKO CD5lo DP thymocytes exhibited reduced apoptosis in situ and reduced CD8‐induced apoptosis ex vivo. Most GadsiKO CD4 SP thymocytes were positively selected, yet a distinct population of unselected (CD5− TCRβneg/low CCR7lo CD24hi) CD4 SP thymocytes was seen only in the absence of Gads. This unselected population did not include Treg or TCRγδ subsets; rather, it encompassed CD44lo CD25+ cells, resembling pre‐β‐selection thymocytes. Our results suggest that Gads promotes passage through key TCR‐driven developmental checkpoints while repressing the progression of unselected DN and DP thymocytes.
Energy‐Efficient Long Range Repair Connectivity Policy for Maritime Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Lu Xiaoyan , Xie Zhibin , Yan Peiyu
Published: February 2025

Maritime wireless sensor network (MWSN) is integral to current communication networks, but its topology is vulnerable to environmental disruptions, leading to an unreliable and unstable communication link. In response to this challenge, we propose a connectivity repair algorithm to construct the connectivity path, which comprehensively considers the deployment location and the moving distance of mobile nodes. The proposed algorithm can achieve the purpose of connectivity repair under optimal energy consumption and mainly includes three steps. First, the Lagrangian tracking approach is used to locate the positions of drifting nodes, which are caused by wind, waves, and currents. Second, according to the location information of the drifting nodes, the length of the connectivity repair path is determined for preparing link establishment. Third, based on the energy consumption of the connectivity repair process, the closed‐form solution is derived for calculating the optimal deployment distance, which is between the nodes waiting for deployment on the connectivity repair path. Furthermore, the optimal number of mobile nodes is obtained under the minimum energy consumption, and the optimal deployment of mobile nodes and connectivity repair is finally achieved. The simulations demonstrate the effectiveness and ability of the proposed algorithm in extending the lifespan of MWSN.
Feasibility and performance evaluation of randomly oriented strand recycled composite skins in sandwich structures: A green cost‐effective solution for aerospace secondary load‐bearing applications
Authors: Özbek Yağız , Al‐Nadhari Abdulrahman , Elmas Sinem , Eskizeybek Volkan , Yıldız Mehmet , Sas Hatice S.
Published: February 2025

Despite the advantages of recycled randomly oriented strand (ROS) composites over recycled grinded ones, the warpage issue hinders their adaptation in the industry due to tolerance requirements. To address this challenge, ROS composites are incorporated into secondary bonded sandwich structures such that the core material ensures the straightness of the ROS composite skins. Additionally, atmospheric plasma activation (APA) is utilized to enhance the skin/core bonding to prevent skin separation under loading. The ROS composite skins are manufactured via vacuum‐assisted hot press to achieve a cost‐effective aerospace‐grade quality. The structural integrity of the sandwich structure is assessed through flatwise tensile and edgewise compression tests, while the mechanical and thermomechanical performance is evaluated using flexural, impact, and dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) tests. The flatwise tensile and edgewise compression tests confirm that APA effectively prevents core detachment, as evidenced by an average tensile strength of 2.28 MPa and an average compressive strength of 171.7 MPa. Moreover, the flexural and impact tests show that no premature skin failure occurs, supported by an average facing strength of 59.23 MPa in flexural testing and an average impact energy of 49.96 kJ/m2. The DMA test indicates that most of the stiffness loss is due to the core material. This comprehensive analysis highlights recycled ROS composites as a sustainable and cost‐effective alternative for quasi‐isotropic skins in aerospace secondary load‐bearing sandwich structures such as floors, doors, engine cowls, and spoilers.

Highlights

The core material serves as a structural stabilizer, eliminating skin warpage.

Flatwise tensile test proves the efficiency of APA treatment.

Edgewise compression test shows warpage does not induce skin/core debonding.

The absence of premature failure illustrates the robustness of the structure.
Trustworthy AI in Healthcare: Exploring Ethics in Digital Health Technologies in Nigeria
Authors: Owoyemi Ayomide , Arthur Eugeniah , Ladi-Akinyemi Tope , Babalola Yemisi , Eke Damian Okaibedi
Published: February 2025

The rapid expansion of digital health solutions in Africa, encompassing telemedicine, AI, and other technologies, aligns with WHO’s Goals for Sustainable Development and Universal Health Coverage. Despite its benefits, this growth raises ethical concerns regarding deploying these technologies. A cross-sectional survey targeting executives of Nigerian digital health startups was conducted using Google Forms. The survey focused on startup characteristics, data management, ethical/legal governance, and user engagement. Data analysis employed descriptive statistics and cross-tabulation in R. The survey included 16 startups, primarily focusing on care provision (56%) and health data analytics (31%). Most store data internationally, with 18% integrating AI/ML in their products. Ethical concerns varied, with half of the startups having ethics/legal governance units and 56% showing high ethical concerns. Findings indicate a preference for international data storage, highlighting data sovereignty and privacy issues. While over half of the startups use anonymisation methods, challenges like non-consensual data collection remain. The study reveals a gap between ethical concerns and the practical implementation of ethical governance. This study sheds light on the operational and ethical dynamics of digital health startups in Nigeria. It underscores the need for policies and frameworks to cultivate a responsible digital health ecosystem, emphasising user-centric approaches and ethical considerations.
Barriers for rectangular matrix multiplication
Authors: Christandl Matthias , Gall François Le , Lysikov Vladimir , Zuiddam Jeroen
Published: February 2025

We study the algorithmic problem of multiplying large matrices that are rectangular.
We prove that the method that has been used to construct the fastest algorithms for rectangular matrix multiplication cannot give algorithms with complexity

$$n^{p + 1}$$

n

p
+
1

for

$$n \times n$$

n
×
n

by

$$n \times n^p$$

n
×

n
p

matrix multiplication. In fact, we prove a precise numerical barrier for this method. Our barrier improves the previously known barriers, both in the numerical sense, as well as in its generality.
In particular, we prove that any lower bound on the dual exponent of matrix multiplication

$$\alpha$$

α

via the big Coppersmith-Winograd tensors cannot exceed

$$0.6218$$

0.6218

.
WEIRD? Institutions and consumers’ perceptions of artificial intelligence in 31 countries
Authors: Howell Bronwyn
Published: February 2025

A survey of perceptions of Artificial Intelligence in 31 countries in 2023 (Ipsos in Global Views on A.I. 2023. https://www.ipsos.com/sites/default/files/ct/news/documents/2023-07/Ipsos%20Global%20AI%202023%20Report-WEB_0.pdf. Accessed 17 May 2024, 2023) yields significantly less positive perceptions of the new technology in developed western economies than in emerging and non-western economies. This could reflect citizens in non-Western countries perceiving machines (computers) and algorithms differently from those in Western countries, or that a more positive outlook in countries with weak democratic institutions comes from a preference for algorithmic precision over inconsistent and/or corrupt regulation and decision-making. However, it could also be reflecting the different psychology of “WEIRD” (Western, Educated, Industrialised, Rich, Democratic) countries. Regressing the survey responses against measures of the “WEIRD” dimensions, we find that reported understanding of, willingness to trust, and anticipation of change due to AI applications are consistently negatively correlated to a country’s education levels (E), and average income per capita (R). The sophistication of democratic institutions (D) and “Westernness” (W), both alone and in combination with the other factors, have statistically significant negative effects on the percentage of the respondents in any given country having positive perceptions of AI and its prospects. The consistency of the negative relationship between the sophistication of democratic institutions country-level perceptions of AI brings into question the role of regulation of the new technology. WEIRD societies are presumed to rely on democratic institutions for assurances they can transact safely with strangers. Institutions thus substitute for the trust non-WEIRD societies place in friends, family and close community contacts when transacting. Third-party (and notably government) assurances in the context of uncertainty created by the emergence of new AI technologies arguably condition perceptions of the safety of these technologies through the presence (or absence) of regulations governing their implementation and use. Different perceptions amongst European countries compared to other western counterparts to perceptions of data privacy support the contention that the mere presence of AI regulation may be sufficient to alter perceptions in WEIRD societies, regardless of whether the regulations are necessary or even effective in increasing user safety. This has implications for interpreting and responding to political pressure to regulate new technologies in WEIRD countries.
Double burden: financial toxicity in patients with advanced soft tissue sarcoma at the start of first-line palliative chemotherapy: baseline data from the HOLISTIC study
Authors: Roets E. , Younger E. , Jones R. L. , Hollander D.den , Desar I. M. E. , Young R. J. , Oosten A. W. , de Haan J. J. , Gelderblom H. , Steeghs N. , van der Graaf W. T. A. , Husson O.
Published: February 2025

Purpose

The HOLISTIC study assessed health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in advanced soft tissue sarcoma (STS) patients receiving first-line palliative chemotherapy. The secondary objective discussed here is to evaluate baseline self-reported financial difficulties and associated sociodemographic factors and global health status (GHS), compare financial toxicity between patients in the United Kingdom (UK) and the Netherlands (NL), and evaluate the consequences of financial toxicity.

Methods

This prospective study included 72 UK and 65 NL patients. Financial toxicity was evaluated by the financial difficulties scale of the EORTC QLQ-C30. Associated factors (i.e., country, gender, educational level, relationship status, employment changes, income, age, time since diagnosis, and GHS) were analyzed using descriptive analysis, Chi-square tests, and univariate and multivariate logistic regression.

Results

Median participant age was 62 (range: 27–79) years, and gender distribution was equal. 58% of UK and 48% of NL patients had no income or a monthly income ≤ £/€ 2000 (p = 0.417). Self-reported additional costs for medication (31% vs. 9%, p < 0.001) and parking (75% vs. 41%, p < 0.001) were more prevalent among Dutch than UK patients. Travel expenses were similar: 68% in NL and 66% in UK. Univariate analysis showed an increased risk of financial toxicity in UK patients (40% vs. 22% [NL], p = 0.023), single patients (52% vs. 27% [with partner], p = 0.014), and those with a change in employment status (46% vs. 24% [no change], p = 0.019). In UK patients, multivariate analysis indicated lower odds for financial toxicity for patients with a high income (OR 0.207, p = 0.031) and higher odds for patients with a worse GHS (OR 5.171, p = 0.012), whereas in NL, higher odds were seen for male (OR 13.286, p = 0.027) and single (OR 41.735, p = 0.007) patients.

Conclusion

Financial toxicity was common among advanced STS already at the start of palliative chemotherapy, influenced by factors such as residence country, income, relationship status, gender, and GHS. Timely interventions are needed to address financial challenges in this population.
A positive quasilocal mass for causal variational principles
Authors: Finster Felix , Kamran Niky
Published: February 2025

A new inequality for a nonlinear surface layer integral is proved for minimizers of causal variational principles. This inequality is applied to obtain a new proof of the positive mass theorem with volume constraint. Next, a positive mass theorem without volume constraint is stated and proved by introducing and using the concept of asymptotic alignment. Moreover, a positive quasilocal mass and a synthetic definition of scalar curvature are introduced in the setting of causal variational principles. Our notions and results are illustrated by the explicit examples of causal fermion systems constructed in ultrastatic spacetimes and the Schwarzschild spacetime. In these examples, the correspondence to the ADM mass and similarities to the Brown–York mass are worked out.
Effect of fish meal substitution with trout viscera protein hydrolysate on the innate immune response of red tilapia (Oreochromis spp)
Authors: Sanguino-Ortiz Wilmer , Espinosa-Ruiz Cristóbal , Esteban Abad María Ángeles , Román Críspulo Perea , Hoyos-Concha José Luis
Published: February 2025

This study evaluated the effect of replacing fish meal (FM) with concentrated trout viscera protein hydrolysate (TVPH) on the immune response in juvenile red tilapia (Oreocheromis spp). Five isoenergetic and isoproteic experimental diets were prepared by substituting FM with TVPH at different substitution ratios: 0% (control, D1) 25% (D2), 50% (D3), 75% (D4), and 100% (D5). A total of 180 red tilapia were distributed in 15 tanks. Fish from three tanks were fed daily at 2% of the biomass for 25 days with one of the five diets mentioned above. At the end of the trial, the fish were counted, weighed, measured, and skin mucus and serum samples were obtained to study different parameters related to humoral immunity. The results indicate a 100% survival rate in all fish groups and did not show significant differences in terms of growth and feed efficiency. On the other hand, the fish fed diets D2 and D3 had significantly higher serum protein values. Also, fish fed the D2 or D5 diets had higher lysozyme activity and fish fed the D2 diet also had significantly higher total immunoglobulin levels than fish fed the control diet. In mucus, fish fed the D2 or D4 diets showed significantly higher mucus protein levels than control fish. However, anti-protease and bactericidal activity decreased in fish fed the D5 or D4 diets, respectively. These results demonstrate that the D2 and D3 diets positively modulate the immune response of juvenile red tilapia compared to that of fish fed the control diet.
Restoring neuropetide Y levels in the hypothalamus ameliorates premature aging phenotype in mice
Authors: Ferreira-Marques Marisa , Carmo-Silva Sara , Pereira Joana , Botelho Mariana , Nóbrega Clévio , López‐Otín Carlos , de Almeida Luís Pereira , Aveleira Célia A. , Cavadas Cláudia
Published: February 2025

The hypothalamus has been recognized as a regulator of whole-body aging. Neuropeptide Y (NPY), highly abundant in the central nervous system and produced by the hypothalamus, enhances autophagy in this brain region and mediates autophagy triggered by caloric restriction, suggesting a potential role as a caloric restriction mimetic and an aging regulator. Considering that hypothalamic NPY levels decline during aging, we investigated if reestablishment of NPY levels mitigate aging phenotype, using a mouse model of premature aging – Zmpste24
−/− mouse. The results show that reestablishing hypothalamic NPY levels delayed aging-associated features, including lipodystrophy, alopecia, and memory. Moreover, these results suggest that strategies that promote maintenance of hypothalamic NPY levels might be relevant to counteract aging progression and age-related deteriorations.
Einflussfaktoren der Implementation von Präventionsstrategien – Validierung eines Messinstruments für den Schulkontext
Authors: Röding Dominik , Lenz Marie-Christin , von Holt Isabell , Decker Lea , Walter Ulla
Published: February 2025

Hintergrund

Die Wirksamkeit von Interventionen der Prävention und Gesundheitsförderung (PGF) hängt von ihrer Implementierungsgüte ab. Das Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR) benennt zahlreiche Faktoren, die die Implementation hemmen oder fördern können. Diese sollten während des Implementationsprozesses erhoben und gesteuert werden. Für Deutschland liegt bislang kein validiertes Instrument vor, mit dem solche Faktoren im Kontext schulischer PGF gemessen werden können. Der Beitrag schließt diese Lücke.

Methode

Es wurde ein validiertes Instrument aus der kommunalen PGF auf die schulische PGF übertragen. Mit diesem Instrument wurden 92 Personen aus 23 Schulen befragt, die mit der Implementation einer Rahmenstrategie für schulische PGF gestartet haben. Es wurden explorative Faktoren- und Reliabilitätsanalysen durchgeführt sowie Cronbachʼs a und Intercluster-Korrelationskoeffizienten (ICC) für 22 Konstrukte berechnet. Zudem wurden Korrelationen zwischen den Konstrukten untersucht.

Ergebnisse

Die interne Konsistenz der Multiitemskalen ist mit Cronbachʼs a von 0,642–0,981 zufriedenstellend bis sehr gut. Mit einem ICC von 0,218 und 0,664 ist ein substanzieller Anteil der gemessenen Varianz auf Unterschiede zwischen den Schulen (Kontextfaktoren) zurückzuführen. Die hemmenden Faktoren korrelieren untereinander nicht oder positiv miteinander. Dasselbe gilt für die förderlichen Faktoren. Zwischen den hemmenden und den förderlichen Faktoren zeigen sich überwiegend keine oder negative Korrelationen.

Schlussfolgerung

Die Ergebnisse sind aus theoretischer Perspektive plausibel und konvergieren mit der Befundlage. Das Instrument kann insofern für die Forschung und als Monitoring-Tool empfohlen werden.
Unlocking the Potential of Chia Microgreen: Physicochemical Properties, Nutritional Profile and Its Application in Noodle Production
Authors: John Sandesh , Gunathilake Samiddhi , Aluthge Supuni , Farahnaky Asgar , Majzoobi Mahsa
Published: February 2025

There is a growing demand for plant-based products rich in protein and bioactive compounds that can enhance human health. Microgreens, known for their superior nutritional profile compared to their mature plants, represent a new generation of plant-based foods. While they are popular as fresh herbs in culinary applications, their potential in food manufacturing remains underexplored. In this study, chia microgreen powder (CMP) was produced as a novel source of plant protein and bioactive compounds, and its use in enriching wheat noodles (2.5%, 5%, and 7% inclusion) was investigated. Results showed that CMP is a rich source of protein (34.7%), bioactive compounds (13.63 ± 0.66 mg GA eq./g of total phenolic compounds), and key minerals (Ca, P, Zn, and Fe). The average amino acid score (AAS) was 80, indicating that the essential amino acids meet 80% of the reference values recommended for human nutrition. While CMP had surplus of phenylalanine + tyrosine and threonine, the main limiting amino acids were methionine + cysteine. CMP exhibited high water and oil absorption capacities (682.35% and 281.91%, respectively), making it a promising texturiser for food applications. The addition of CMP to wheat noodles not only improved their nutritional profile but also imparted a mild green colour. However, CMP inclusion reduced cooking time, cooking loss and noodle cohesiveness. Despite these changes, inclusion of CMP up to 5% resulted in a noodle with acceptable quality, demonstrating its potential as a novel functional food ingredient.
Comparison of surgical and radiotherapy outcomes in octogenarians with early-stage non-small cell lung cancer: a SEER database retrospective cohort study
Authors: Hua Wenxuan , Zhang Zhigang , Ni Lianfang , Liu Xinmin
Published: February 2025

Background

Lung cancer remains the leading cause of death worldwide, yet optimal treatment strategies for octogenarians with early-stage non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) remain unclear.

Aims

To investigate treatment patterns and survival outcomes in octogenarians and older with early-stage NSCLC.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study was conducted using Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results database. Patients aged ≥ 80 years with stage I–IIA NSCLC diagnosed between 2011 and 2020 were included. Primary treatments included surgery, radiation, and no treatment. Kaplan–Meier curves were used to evaluate overall survival (OS) and cancer-specific survival (CSS) stratified by treatment and year. Propensity score matching balanced clinical characteristics between surgery and radiation groups, followed by Cox regression analysis. Survival outcomes were further compared within matched subgroups stratified by tumor size.

Results

Among 7,372 patients, median survival was 67 months for surgery and 33 months for radiotherapy. Radiotherapy use increased from 31.2% in 2011 to 49.4% in 2020, while surgery rates declined. Multivariate analysis (N = 2,434) showed radiotherapy was associated with worse OS (hazard ratio = 1.96, 95% CI = 1.78–2.15, P < 0.001) compared to surgery.

Discussion

Radiotherapy is increasingly used to treat early-stage NSCLC in octogenarians, yet surgery provides superior long-term survival. Limitations of lack of detailed comorbidity data and differentiation between conventional radiotherapy and stereotactic ablative radiotherapy (SABR) may have expanded the advantages of surgery. Meanwhile, patient performance status and preferences must be considered in treatment decisions.

Conclusions

Surgery remains the preferred treatment option for eligible octogenarians with early-stage NSCLC.
Assessing Rapid Visual Perception in Medical Students Trained in Ultrasound
Authors: Mescher O. , Musick C. , Landis B. C. , Anderson R. , Pappas A. C.
Published: February 2025

Rapid visual perception of ultrasound (US) images was compared between 1st- and 2nd-year medical students at 2 days or 6 months following ultrasound training, respectively. Briefly, US images were presented for 0.2 s, after which, participants were asked to identify the anatomical structure. Modest accuracy was observed among both cohorts. However, accuracy more than doubled for students that engaged with US outside their formal training. Our study demonstrates: 1) an inexpensive method of assessing rapid visual perception in students of US; and 2) that a combination of formal training and extracurricular engagement leads to greater visual expertise for conventional US.
Omics analysis of Penaeus monodon in response to salinity changes
Authors: Huang Sheng , Jiang Shigui , Jiang Song , Huang Jianhua , Yang Qibin , Yang Lishi , Shi Jianzhi , Li Erchao , Zhou Falin , Li Yundong
Published: February 2025

Salinity profoundly influences the physiological and biochemical well-being of shrimp in aquaculture, dictating their growth, survival, and overall health. In this study, research exposed Penaeus monodon to three different salinity environments (salinity 5, 20, and 30) for 62 days, which affected shrimp growth and the development of the gut and hepatopancreas. Further omics analyses revealed that high salinity levels led to the predominance of Proteobacteria and Cyanobacteria in the gut microbiome, enhancing the osmoregulatory and immune functions essential for shrimp recovery under salinity stress. The transcriptome highlighted the upregulation of genes involved in lipid metabolism and amino acid processing, emphasizing the critical role of lipid dynamics in salinity adaptation. Metabolomics revealed alterations in membrane lipid composition, osmoprotectant synthesis, and antioxidative defense mechanisms, which are crucial for maintaining cellular integrity under salinity stress. Integrated analysis revealed a comprehensive molecular framework for the resilience of P. monodon to salinity fluctuations, underscoring lipid metabolism as the core of its adaptation strategy. This study enriches understanding of salinity regulation in P. monodon, providing practical insights for enhancing low-salinity aquaculture and responding to environmental challenges.

Graphical Abstract
The relationship between perceived stress and asthma symptoms among public universities students in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Almeshari Mohammed A. , Bahashwan Lujain , Alomran Dalal , alzahrani Leen , Alomair Hailah , Alassaf Ghaida , Alanazi Abdullah M.
Published: February 2025

Background

Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease characterized by recurrent and fluctuating airflow limitations. The objective of the study was to assess the association between stress and asthma symptoms among students enrolled at public universities in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

Methodology

A cross-sectional study was conducted, utilizing the Arabic-validated questionnaires of the asthma control test (ACT), the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS), and the European Community Respiratory Health Survey (ECRHS) as the primary instrument for data collection. Statistical analysis was performed using RStudio software. Appropriate ethical guidelines were followed throughout the research process.

Results

The study included 156 public university students in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The participants were predominantly female (84.0%) with a median age of 21 years. Using PSS, 3.2% had low, 80.1% had moderate, and 16.6% had high perceived stress levels. In total, 127 participants (81.4%) reported experiencing respiratory symptoms. After adjusting for age, sex, BMI, and smoking status, students with high perceived stress were found to be more likely to report respiratory symptoms compared to those with moderate stress (OR: 6.85, 95% CI 1.20–130.0). This demonstrated a significant association between increased stress and asthma related symptoms.

Conclusion

High perceived stress levels were associated with respiratory symptoms. These findings should be utilized to build strategies for improving the management and control of asthma symptoms in this population.
Factors influencing anticipated migration patterns across metropolitan cities in the United States between 2018 and 2022
Authors: Gude Vinayaka , Melendez Ricardo , Islam Md Monirul
Published: February 2025

The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted people’s lives in various cities across the United States. This study explored the factors influencing anticipated migration patterns as indicated by the house search on the Redfin platform in 132 United States cities before, during, and after the COVID-19 Pandemic. The research addresses a crucial gap in the existing literature on recent trends in migration patterns, factors influencing this, and the potential impact of the pandemic. We employed a multivariate regression model to study overall migration and additional models to examine yearly data, identifying key factors that drive people to relocate. We identified that regions with better healthcare services, lower income inequality, and lower unemployment rates increasingly attract residents. Cities with greater racial and ethnic diversity, as well as high school completion rates, were also appealing until 2020 when the importance of education in migration decisions was overshadowed by housing affordability issues. Meanwhile, proximity to larger cities played a significant role, with people favoring smaller cities nearby for better growth opportunities. Our findings suggest that developing cities with smaller populations are becoming preferred destinations due to their mix of affordability, job opportunities, and better living conditions. These insights are invaluable for policymakers, city planners, and community organizations, helping guide urban development strategies and address challenges such as income inequality, neighborhood segregation, and healthcare accessibility.
Can access to restaurant meals under the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program lead to obesity?
Authors: Jamal Ayesha
Published: February 2025

Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) makes an exception to its rules, which allows elderly and/or disabled individuals, their spouses, as well as homeless beneficiaries, to buy hot prepared food from restaurants if they live in a state that participates in the Restaurant Meals Program (RMP). Using the staggered countywide adoption timeline in California, coupled with a stacked difference-in-differences empirical strategy, I examine the intent-to-treat (ITT) nutritional effects of RMP on the elderly population. Overall, I find no evidence that obesity rates for the elderly are any different in counties with RMP versus those without RMP. I can statistically rule out moderate effects. Additional evidence from some of the early-adopting counties suggests that RMP is associated with a reduction in food insecurity among the elderly.
Hellenizing Mycenae: from Heinrich Schliemann's excavations to National Museum
Authors: Kourkoulakos Antonis , Balaskas Vasileios
Published: February 2025

In the 1870s, Heinrich Schliemann's excavations in Mycenae brought to light an unknown civilization. His intellectual network exploited the impact of these fascinating discoveries by implementing a double appropriation process. Many foreign intellectuals and members of the upper class sought to engage with the impressive findings. Meanwhile, a Greek intellectual elite played a pivotal role by Hellenizing Mycenaean antiquities to integrate them within a vision of a glorious national past. These processes were brought together with the inauguration of the branch of Mycenaean Archaeology by the Greek king and the establishment of the National Museum.
A Tale of Four Crises: The European Court of Justice’s Response to Crises
Authors: Constantinou Eftychia
Published: February 2025

While the European Union was recently affected by four major and multifaceted crises which gave rise to litigation, the response of the European Court of Justice to these events has remained understudied. From a close reading of the procedural features, the legal reasoning and timing of four key judgments concerning measures adopted in the wake of the Eurozone crisis, the migration crisis, Brexit, and the COVID-19 pandemic, this article sketches a broader narrative about the Court’s response to crises which transcends the specificities of the legal issues and the context of each case. The findings suggest that the Court is likely to adjudicate a crisis case by applying the expedited procedure depending on political developments, assign a larger chamber, carefully justify its reasoning with references to settled case-law, conduct a context-sensitive balancing exercise, and deliver a decision at a politically relevant time.
On a perturbed critical semilinear equation with singularity
Authors: Goyal Sarika , Sandeep Kunnath
Published: February 2025

In this article, we investigate necessary and sufficient conditions on the perturbation ρ for the existence of positive least energy solutions of the critical singular semilinear elliptic equation

$ -\Delta u = \frac{|u|^{2^{*}(s)-2}}{|x|^s}u + \rho(u) $

with Dirichlet boundary condition in a bounded smooth domain in

$\mathbb R^n$

containing the origin, where

$2^*(s)=\frac{2(n-s)}{n-2}$

,

$0\leq s \lt 2 \lt n$

. We show that the almost necessary and sufficient condition obtained for the case s = 0 in [1] differs conceptually when

$0 \lt s \lt 2$

.
The preservation potential of loess in low-elevation mountains (Mecsek Mountains, Hungary)
Authors: Sebe Krisztina , Józsa Sándor , Lukács Réka , Surányi Gergely , Harangi Szabolcs , Novothny Ágnes
Published: February 2025

Loess–paleosol outcrops were logged and dated to trace loess cover during the Pleistocene in a low-elevation mountainous area. The exposed successions were a maximum of 15 m thick and stratigraphically fragmentary. Still, results suggest that loess was deposited in all climatically suitable periods within the limits of the dating methods (ca. 400 ka), and probably also beyond this. Luminescence measurements provided numerical ages from ca. 18 ka to ca. 200 ka and minimum ages of up to >267 ka. Loess accumulation was also active during the relatively mild MIS 3. A new occurrence of a well-preserved Quaternary tephra was documented, correlative with the middle Pleistocene Bag Tephra (ca. 340 or 368 ka). The dating of loess successions provided valuable data on geomorphic evolution as well, identifying hydrological changes and constraining a maximum incision and uplift rate of 0.008–0.035 mm/yr for the western part of the area. The low thickness of loess–paleosol successions and the stratigraphic gaps seem to be a consequence of repeated erosion during the Pleistocene rather than a result of non-deposition. The mountains probably have been covered with loess for most of the time during the past 1 Ma. This should be taken into consideration in studies influenced by the loess cover of an area.
Distribution of exchangeable arsenic in low-land paddy fields in Sri Lanka as affected by the agro-climatic zone, soil and water source
Authors: Neththasinghe Anuththara , Thennakoon Nipuna , Dissanayaka Samantha , Marambe Buddhi , Kadupitiya Harsha , Rathnayake Upul , Chandrajith Rohana , Suriyagoda Lalith
Published: February 2025

The presence of excessive arsenic (As) in paddy fields poses a significant risk to human health due to its accumulation in rice grains. However, the current level of As in Sri Lankan paddy fields remains unclear. Therefore, this research aims to assess the distribution of exchangeable As concentration and investigate the effects of agro-climatic zones (ACZs), soil orders, and water sources on exchangeable As concentration in Sri Lankan paddy fields. For this purpose, 7,154 soil samples were collected from paddy fields using a stratified random sampling method representing six ACZs, six soil orders, and three water sources. Arsenic extraction was made using 0.01 M CaCl2 followed by the detection with Inductive Coupled Plasma Mass-Spectrophotometry. The concentration of exchangeable As ranged from 0.01 to 392.9 µg/kg with an average of 24.6 µg/kg. Samples from the Low-country Wet zone exhibited higher exchangeable As levels compared to those from the Low country Dry zone (p<0.05). Among soil orders, Histosols, Inceptisols, and Ultisols showed higher exchangeable As concentrations than Alfisols and Vertisols (p<0.05). Rainfed paddy fields had higher exchangeable As compared to the fields with access to supplementary irrigation. Additionally, exchangeable As concentration was inversely correlated with soil pH and paddy grain yield (p<0.05). The observed variations in soil-As concentration across ACZs, soil orders, and water sources highlight the need for climate, soil order, and water source-specific strategies to mitigate further accumulation of As in paddy fields.
Plant diversity drives sandy-loam soil quality and crop yields in integrated crop-livestock systems
Authors: Gonçalves Evelyn Custódio , Silva Laércio Santos , de Camargo Tatiane Andrea , Nogueira Bruna Karolayne Andrade , Dalla Côrt Andressa Selestina , Ponce Polyana Freitas , Pires Gabriela Castro , Silva Izabela Aline Gomes da , Pacheco Leandro Pereira , Tadini Amanda Maria , Martin-Neto Ladislau , de Moraes Anibal , Carvalho Paulo César de Faccio , de Souza Edicarlos Damacena
Published: February 2025

Agricultural monoculture negatively impacts soil quality, particularly in fragile soils that yield limited crop production and are highly susceptible to degradation. Increasing plant diversity in production systems can be an alternative for maintaining soil ecosystem services and increasing crop yields. This study investigated the influence of increased plant diversity on soil health and its impact on soybean and cotton yield in an Ultisol in the Brazilian savanna in Mato Grosso State, Brazil. Tested five levels of plant diversity after soybean harvest: 1) very low (VL), 2) low (LW), 3) average (AVG), 4) long term average (AVL) e 5) high (ICLS) were tested. Plant diversity improves the health of sandy loam soil, increases C and N fractions in particulate organic matter (POM-C and POM-N) and leads to differences in C utilization by the soil microbial community. High ICLS diversity raises total organic carbon levels (TC, being POM-C and POM-N, the labile fractions, more efficient to show changes in sandy loam soil, in the short term, over a period of three years. High diversity promoted yield gains of up to 251% for cotton and 82% for soybean in relation to very low plant diversity. Changes in soil microbial composition are able to partially explain crop yield in diversified production systems (R2 ranging from 0.51 to 0.80). Diversifying production components is a sustainable way to maintain biological functions and agricultural quality of loam sandy soil in the Brazilian Cerrado in Mato Grosso.
Feasibility of Measuring Physical Function by Wearable Devices During Deprescribing of Anticholinergic and Sedative Medicatiossns
Authors: Cossette Benoit , Boissy Patrick , Milot Marie-Hélène , Hilmer Sarah N , Kouladjian O’donnell Lisa , Gnjidic Danijela , Sirois Caroline , Mangin Dee , Ricard Geneviève , Isenor Jennifer E. , Roy-Petit Jacynthe , Abdulrazak Bessam , Tousignant Marilyn , Lebel Karina
Published: February 2025

Cumulative exposure to anticholinergic and sedative medications has been associated with worsening physical function in older adults. We evaluated the feasibility of measuring physical function using wearable devices and explored the impact of reducing the anticholinergic and sedative medication burden in a pilot study of community-dwelling adults aged 60 years and older. Evaluations included the 10-meter walk test (10MWT), the Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB), and the mini-BESTest. Two participants/month were recruited in one clinic in 2022. The five participants had a median age of 67, a median DBI of 1.7, and four were female. The feasibility analysis showed that the 10MWT and SPPB tests were completed on 12/12, and the mini-BESTest on 11/12. An exploratory analysis showed clinically meaningful improvements in gait speed (mean +0.18 m/s) and SPPB (mean +2.2 points). We showed the feasibility of measuring physical function by wearable devices during deprescribing of anticholinergic and sedative medications.
Kant on Imperfect Duties: A Defence of the Latitudinal Interpretation
Authors: Galvin Richard
Published: February 2025

According to the ‘rigorist’ interpretation, the imperfect duty of (e.g.) beneficence does not permit agents to fail to perform any beneficent act that is available to the agent in order to pursue some nonmoral interest, whereas on the latitudinal interpretation, agents are permitted to fail to do so. I defend the latitudinal interpretation by criticising recent defences of rigorism offered by Jens Timmermann and Pauline Kleingeld, arguing that they conflict with important features of Kant’s moral theory, and that the latitudinal interpretation better coheres with Kant’s overall view.
Dynamics of the 2021 Fagradalsfjall Eruption (Iceland) Revealed by Volcanic Tremor Patterns
Authors: Soubestre Jean , Caudron Corentin , Melnik Oleg , Lecocq Thomas , Jaupart Claude , Shapiro Nikolai M. , Journeau Cyril , Çubuk‐Sabuncu Yeşim , Jónsdóttir Kristín
Published: February 2025

Co‐eruptive volcanic tremor during the 2021 Fagradalsfjall eruption in Iceland (19 March–18 September 2021) is characterized using seismic and visual data recorded close to the eruption site and across the Reykjanes Peninsula. An automatic seismic network‐based approach reveals several tremor patterns associated with seven phases of the eruption, including (a) continuous tremor located beneath the eruption site and attributed to pressure changes in the shallow vent system(s) in phases I, III, and VII, and (b) two patterns of minute‐ and hour‐long intermittent tremor in May (phase II) and July–August (phases IV–VI), respectively. The first intermittent pattern of minute‐long tremor bursts associated with pulsating lava fountains in May is attributed to magma degassing in a shallow reservoir (top 100 m) connected to a top‐conduit. The progressive enlargement of both the top‐conduit and shallow reservoir with time is estimated quantitatively using a collapsing foam model. Sudden changes of their geometries, as detected from tremor characteristics, are systematically associated with observed crater collapse events. The second intermittent pattern of cyclic hour‐long tremor episodes associated with episodic effusive activity in July–August is attributed to magma flowing and cooling in the feeder dike connected to a sill at 5 km depth. The sill is fed by a constant influx of magma from the deeper plumbing system and stores magma during low discharge periods. The observed cyclicity of both the eruptive activity and the tremor is interpreted quantitatively with a sill‐dike model accounting for magma cooling and induced cyclic viscosity changes in the dike.
Photon-triggered pyroptosis and ferroptosis dual-functional nanoplatform for cancer immunotherapy
Authors: Cheng Quansheng , Wang Qingcheng , Qu Songnan
Published: February 2025

A dual-functional nanoplatform is demonstrated that is found to have the characteristics of cancer cell targeting, pH response, near-infrared fluorescence imaging, and lysosome targeting. It can simultaneously achieve pyroptosis and ferroptosis under the mediation of photons for cancer immunotherapy.