bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Decision Tree Ensembles for Automatic Spectroscopic Classification of Tidal Disruption Events
Authors: Humpe Andreas , Mazzali Paolo A , Gal-Yam Avishay , Siekmann Ivo
Published: February 2025

The principal objective of this study was to develop a reliable model for the automatic classification of tidal disruption events (TDEs) using spectroscopic data. A total of 147 TDE spectra and 3,626 spectra of various supernova types and AGNs were included in the data, sourced from PESSTO-SSDR1-4. An ensemble learning approach was employed using bagging with decision trees as base learners, optimized through cost-sensitive analysis and Bayesian hyperparameter tuning. A high test accuracy of 97.67%, with balanced precision and recall, was achieved by the optimized model. To enhance TDE detection, a dynamic threshold adjustment was applied, prioritizing recall, which increased from 47.22% to 83.33%. Most TDEs were correctly identified due to this adjustment, with a reduction in precision from 85.00% to 22.22% and a decrease in overall accuracy from 97.67% to 88.23%, reflecting the prioritization of recall over precision. Relative to their occurrence in our dataset, SN IIn, SN IIP, SN II, and AGNs are the most likely objects to be misclassified as TDEs. The effectiveness of the proposed methodology in accurately classifying TDEs while managing the rate of false positives is demonstrated by these results. This approach is particularly valuable in TDE detection, where minimizing false negatives is crucial to ensuring these rare events are not missed. The potential of ensemble learning, combined with cost-sensitive analysis and threshold optimization, in handling datasets in astrophysical research is highlighted by the study, offering a robust tool for future TDE classifications. The proposed method could be particularly beneficial for upcoming large-scale surveys.
Statistical selection of high-redshift, neutral-hydrogen-rich, lensed galaxies with the Square Kilometre Array
Authors: Button Charissa B , Deane Roger P
Published: February 2025

Deep wide spectral line surveys with the Square Kilometre Array (SKA) will expand the cosmic frontiers of neutral atomic hydrogen (H i) in galaxies. However, at cosmologically significant redshifts ($z \gtrsim 0.5$), detections will typically be spatially unresolved and limited to the highest mass systems. Gravitational lensing could potentially alleviate these limitations, enabling lower mass systems to be studied at higher redshift and spatially resolved dynamical studies of some H i discs. Additionally, lensed H i systems would select foreground dark matter haloes using a different, more extended baryonic tracer compared to other lens surveys. This may result in a wider selected range of foreground dark matter halo properties, such as the concentration parameter. This paper uses the distortion of the observed H i mass function produced by strong gravitational lensing to find a flux density criterion for selecting lensed H i sources in future SKA-Mid spectral line surveys. This selection approach could yield lensed H i source densities in the range of ${\sim} 0.1$–10 galaxies per square degree out to a redshift of $z \simeq 3$ covered by SKA-MID Band 1. Although the sample sizes are modest, even with the proposed SKA-Mid surveys, the selection approach is straightforward and should have a 50 per cent efficiency without any additional information, such as low-impact-factor or lower redshift massive galaxies. The efficiency of selecting high-redshift, neutral-hydrogen-rich, lensed galaxies should then be greatly enhanced by using SKA-MID data in concert with the Vera C. Rubin Large Survey of Space and Time.
Charge separation state carrier storage-triggered thermally activated delayed phosphorescence in an organic scintillator
Authors: Cao Ruo-Yu , Si Yu-Bing , Yang Qi , Gao Zi-Ying , Yuan Jia-Wang , Zhao Yi , Peng Qiu-Chen , Li Kai , Zang Shuang-Quan , Tang Ben Zhong
Published: February 2025

Organic scintillators are among the most promising scintillators due to their inherent merits in terms of heavy metal-free constituents, synthesis designability, affordability of raw materials, and low usage costs. However, the limited X-ray excited luminescence (XEL) property of organic scintillators affects their application. To date, the main approaches for improving the XEL property of organic scintillators have focused on introducing heavy atoms to increase the absorbance of X-ray and establishing new luminescence pathways, such as thermally activated delayed fluorescence (TADF), to increase the exciton utilization efficiency. Even so, the XEL property of organic scintillators is not ideal compared with that of commercial inorganic scintillators. In this work, a highly stable charge separation (CS) state trap was introduced into the design of an organic scintillator. Combined with a unique thermally activated delayed phosphorescence (TADP) process, highly efficient capture and conversion of high-energy carriers are realized. As a result, the exciton generation efficiency dramatically increases, with an ultrahigh XEL intensity, and X-ray afterglow imaging at room temperature is achieved for the first time. This work provides a brand-new strategy for the design of high-performance organic scintillators.
Early Experience and Effectiveness of Long-Acting Injectable Cabotegravir and Rilpivirine in a South Side Chicago HIV Clinic
Authors: Liegeon Geoffroy , Kaperak Christopher , Friedman Eleanor E , Djuricich Paul , Dawdani Alicia , Stafford Kane , Plotkin Sophie , Schmitt Jessica , Hazra Aniruddha , Christopoulos Katerina A , Schneider John A , McNulty Moira C
Published: February 2025

We describe referrals and uptake of long-acting injectable cabotegravir/rilpivirine (LAI-CAB/RPV) at an academic clinic in Chicago. Using a pharmacy-led model, 118 (18%) people with HIV (PWH) were referred and 78 (12%) initiated LAI-CAB/RPV from 1/1/2021-5/31/2023. Implementation, especially for non-virally suppressed PWH, requires further support for patients, providers, and clinic systems.
Traumatic Brain Injury in Patients With Mandibular Fractures
Authors: Pope Pharibe , Hassan Bashar A. , Er Seray , Resnick Eric , Stein Deborah M. , Pan Judy , Grant Michael P. , Lamaris Gregory A.
Published: February 2025

Background

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) associated with facial fractures is a major public health concern worldwide. The rate of TBI in patients with mandibular fractures ranges from 21.3% to 39.6%. However, the risk factors for TBI in patients with mandibular fractures remain unknown. Our study evaluates these risk factors.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed patients who presented with traumatic mandibular fractures in 2018 and 2019. Excluded were patients with no documentation of Glasgow Coma Scale. Our primary outcomes were: (1) prevalence of concomitant TBI on presentation defined as having a positive head computed tomography scan (hemorrhage, parenchymal contusion, diffuse axonal injury), or a negative scan with Glasgow Coma Scale < 15 or any neurologic symptom/sign; (2) prevalence of posttraumatic neurologic symptoms assessed at ≥4 weeks after injury. The mandibular injury severity score (MISS) was calculated for all patients. Bivariate analysis and multivariable logistic regression were performed.

Results

Of 390 patients with mandibular fractures, 165 (42.3%) had concomitant TBI on presentation. Of those, 61% (n = 101) had mild TBI, 12% (n = 20) had moderate TBI, and 27% (n = 44) had severe TBI. Almost half of the mandibular fractures were due to assault (182 [47%]). Older age at injury and the presence of other facial fractures were associated with significantly greater odds of TBI on presentation (adjusted odds ratio 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.016 [1.001–1.032], P = 0.040; 2.457 [1.551–3.891], P < 0.001). Of 195 patients who were assessed at ≥4 weeks after injury, 99 (51%) had neurologic symptoms, most commonly facial numbness (74 [38%]). Mandibular body fracture and a high MISS were associated with significantly greater odds of having neurologic sequelae at ≥4 weeks after injury (adjusted odds ratio [95% CI] 3.12 [1.31–7.50], 1.12 [1.04–1.20]).

Conclusions

Older patients and those with mandibular body fractures and a high MISS may benefit from TBI screening and close longitudinal follow-up to identify and manage neurologic sequelae.
The ISAPS Expert Program Review
Authors: Rojas Gutiérrez Claudio Daniel
Published: February 2025

Extensive exposure to aesthetic surgery is not universally available in all plastic surgery residency programs, particularly in less developed countries. Initiatives by organizations such as ISAPS (International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery) help trainees bridge gaps in their education in aesthetic surgery. As a former observer of Prof Ruth Graf, the author shares their experience with the ISAPS Expert Program, offering an overview of the benefits and opportunities provided by such initiatives.
Colloidal homogenization for the hydrodynamics of nematic liquid crystals
Authors: De Anna Francesco , Schlömerkemper Anja , Zarnescu Arghir Dani
Published: February 2025

This paper analytically explores a simplified model for the hydrodynamics of nematic liquid crystal colloids. We integrate a Stokes equation for the velocity field with a Ginzburg–Landau transported heat flow for the director field. The study focuses on a bounded spatial domain containing periodically distributed colloidal particles with no-anchoring conditions on the nematic liquid crystal. By progressively reducing the particle size to zero and simultaneously increasing the number of particles, we delve into the associated homogenization problem. Our analysis uncovers a form of decoupling where the velocity field asymptotically satisfies a Darcy equation, independent of the director, while the director follows a gradient flow, unaffected by the velocity field. One of the most intricate aspects of the homogenization process is the absence of an extension operator for the director field that preserves the uniform estimates related to the system’s energy. We address this challenge with a novel variation of the Aubin–Lions lemma, specifically adapted for homogenization problems.
Status of the ΛCDM theory: supporting evidence and anomalies
Authors: Peebles Phillip James E.
Published: February 2025

The standard

Λ

CDM cosmology passes demanding tests that establish it as a good approximation to reality. It is incomplete, with open questions and anomalies, but the same is true of all our physical theories. The anomalies in the standard cosmology might guide us to an even better theory. It has happened before.

This article is part of the discussion meeting issue ‘Challenging the standard cosmological model’.
Assessing the growth of structure over cosmic time with cosmic microwave background lensing
Authors: Madhavacheril Mathew S.
Published: February 2025

The standard

Λ

-Cold Dark Matter cosmological model informed by cosmic microwave background (CMB) anisotropies makes a precise prediction for the growth of matter density fluctuations over cosmic time on linear scales. A variety of cosmological observables offer independent and complementary ways of testing this prediction, but results have been mixed, with many constraints on the amplitude of structure

S
8

being 2–3

σ

lower than the expectation from
Planck
primary CMB anisotropies. It is currently unclear whether these discrepancies are due to observational systematics, nonlinearities and baryonic effects or new physics. We review how gravitational lensing of the CMB has and will continue to provide insights into this problem, including through tomographic cross-correlations with galaxy surveys over cosmic time.

This article is part of the discussion meeting issue ‘Challenging the standard cosmological model’.
The ISW puzzle
Authors: Szapudi Istvan
Published: February 2025

The integrated Sachs–Wolfe (ISW) effect from stacking cosmic microwave background (CMB) images of superclusters and voids persists as a challenge to the concordance

Λ

CDM paradigm. The signal is 4–5 times the expectation. The CMB Cold Spot (CS), the most significant CMB anomaly, resulted in the discovery of the Eridanus supervoid, one of the most enormous known structures. Bayesian statistics and a later Dark Energy Survey (DES) analysis suggest it is responsible for the CS, consistent with the observed fourfold enhancement over concordance predictions. These results motivate the average expansion rate approximation (AvERA) model, tracking coarse-grained inhomogeneities in an
N
-body simulation. The AvERA expansion history provides a ‘late solution’ to the Hubble-constant tension with emerging curvature taking the role of Dark Energy, is consistent with all principal CMB and large-scale structure measurements, and solves the ISW puzzle. In addition, it predicts a sign reversal of the ISW effect that has been recently confirmed, albeit at a moderate significance, with eBOSS quasars. Deep and wide galaxy surveys, such as Euclid, will soon confirm or refute the ‘late complexity’ indicated by the ISW sign reversal, increase the overall statistical significance of the findings and settle whether the ISW puzzle necessitates any significant modification to the concordance

Λ

CDM paradigm.

This article is part of the discussion meeting issue ‘Challenging the standard cosmological model’.
Challenges to the standard cosmological model from large-scale bulk flow estimates
Authors: Watkins Richard
Published: February 2025

The cosmological principle demands that the motions of galaxies averaged over a large enough sphere should become small. Thus, the large-scale bulk flow is an important test of this principle and of the standard cosmological model more generally. While hints of anomalous bulk flows have been reported for decades, in the past few years, the quality and quantity of peculiar velocity data have improved to where bulk flows can put meaningful constraints on our models. We present estimates of the bulk flow in volumes of increasing radii using the minimum variance (MV) method with data from the
CosmicFlows-4
(CF4) catalogue. Contrary to expectations, we find that the bulk flow amplitude increases with increasing radius, with the bulk flow amplitude in a volume of radius

200

h

−
1

Mpc being large enough to have only a 0.003% chance of occurring in the standard model. We discuss the detailed characteristics of the large-scale bulk flow with an eye towards a better understanding of its origin.

This article is part of the discussion meeting issue ‘Challenging the standard cosmological model’.
Anisotropy in the cosmic acceleration inferred from supernovae
Authors: Rameez Mohamed
Published: February 2025

Under the assumption that they are standard(izable) candles, the lightcurves of Type Ia supernovae have been analysed in the framework of the standard Friedmann–Lemaitre–Robertson–Walker cosmology to conclude that the expansion rate of the Universe is accelerating due to dark energy. While the original claims in the late 1990s were made using overlapping samples of less than 100 supernovae in total, catalogues of nearly 2000 supernovae are now available. In light of recent developments such as the cosmic dipole anomaly and the larger-than-expected bulk flow in the local Universe (which does not converge to the Cosmic Rest Frame), we analyse the newer datasets using a Maximum Likelihood Estimator and find that the acceleration of the expansion rate of the Universe is unequivocally anisotropic. The associated debate in the literature highlights the artifices of using supernovae as standardizable candles, while also providing deeper insights into a consistent relativistic view of peculiar motions as departures from the Hubble expansion of the Universe. The effects of our being ‘tilted observers’ embedded in a deep bulk flow may have been mistaken for cosmic acceleration.

This article is part of the discussion meeting issue ‘Challenging the standard cosmological model’.
Future directions in cosmology
Authors: Palanque-Delabrouille N.
Published: February 2025

Cosmology is entering a very exciting time in its history, when a wealth of cutting-edge experiments are all starting to collect data, or about to. These experiments aim at addressing some of the most intriguing questions in fundamental physics, such as what is the nature of dark matter, is dark energy a cosmological constant or a varying field, what are the masses of the neutrinos and more. While Λ-CDM has emerged as a simple model that is consistent with most of the current datasets, we are starting to see some interesting deviations that deserve further exploration. This contribution provides an overview of upcoming projects and the science opportunities they will allow. In particular, we recall and comment on the DESI year-1 BAO constraints and their implications for dark energy. We put some of the most recent results and outstanding questions into the perspective of the forthcoming observational programme.

This article is part of the discussion meeting issue ‘Challenging the standard cosmological model’.
Cross-Sectional and Longitudinal Patterns of Atrophy in Thalamic and Deep Gray Matter Nuclei in Frontotemporal Dementia
Authors: Banerjee A. , Yang F. , Dutta J. , Cacciola A. , Hornberger M. , Saranathan M.
Published: February 2025

INTRODUCTION

Frontotemporal dementia involves progressive atrophy in deep gray matter nuclei, including the thalamus and basal ganglia (such as the caudate, putamen, nucleus accumbens, and globus pallidus), which are critical for cognition and behavior. This study examined cross-sectional and longitudinal atrophy using a state-of-the-art multi-atlas segmentation method sTHOMAS.

METHODS

T1-weighted MRI scans from 274 participants at baseline and 237 at follow-up obtained from the Frontotemporal Lobar Degeneration Neuroimaging Initiative database were analyzed using sTHOMAS. Group differences were assessed using ANCOVA, adjusting for age, gender and intracranial volume as covariates.

RESULTS

Atrophy was significant in the mediodorsal, pulvinar, anterior ventral nuclei, nucleus accumbens, and claustrum, with bvFTD most affected cross-sectionally. Longitudinally, the nucleus accumbens, mediodorsal, and pulvinar nuclei declined further. Atrophy correlated with naming (mediodorsal), working memory (ventrolateral posterior), and executive dysfunction (nucleus accumbens) neuropsychological tests.

DISCUSSION

These findings highlight progressive, nucleus-specific atrophy in FTD and emphasize the importance of cross-sectional as well as longitudinal imaging and sex-specific analyses in understanding disease progression.
Energetic consequences of single and repeated freezing in the intertidal mussel,Mytilus trossulus
Authors: Yang Josh Chia Chi , Marshall Katie E.
Published: February 2025

The bay mussel,Mytilus trossulus, is a bivalve commonly found in intertidal zones along the west coast of North America which risks freezing during low tides in the winter. Previous work has shown that despite their freeze tolerance, freezing can still cause damage. Yet little is known about the energetic consequences of these freezing events. Here we measured the oxygen consumption of mussels before and after single and repeated freezing exposures across three seasons. We compared these responses to hypoxia exposures as tissues are not perfused while frozen which inhibits gas exchange. In general, we observed that mussels’ metabolic rates decreased immediately after a single freeze but recovers after 24 hours. By contrast, repeated freeze-thaws caused variable effects of metabolic rate, depending on the season of exposure. Overall, this suggests that the periods of recovery that occur between freeze-thaw cycles may mitigate freezing damage. We also found that hypoxia in general causes an increase in metabolic rate and may be associated with clearing oxygen debt. Therefore, the metabolic consequences after freezing are unlikely to be driven by hypoxia stress. Here we explore the energetic costs of freezing inM. trossulusinforming future research directions into the mechanisms behind freeze tolerance.
Is blue the most attractive color for bees? Exploring the attractiveness of colors in vane traps
Authors: Rentería Elizabeth , Brehm Gunnar
Published: February 2025

Bees play important roles in shaping ecosystems through processes like pollination. However, their populations are in decline due to habitat degradation and unsustainable agriculture. This study assesses the effectiveness of color traps for bee monitoring in two distinct yet geographically close habitats in “Jenaer Forst” natural reserve in Germany. Over a 23-week period in spring and summer 2023, we tested six trap colors (blue, yellow, white, violet, blue-yellow, and violet-white) and analyzed their performance in terms of bee abundance, diversity, and species composition. Our results indicate that violet and blue-yellow traps captured the highest bee abundance and species richness. While overall bee community composition did not differ significantly between trap colors, specific species showed color preferences. The blue-yellow trap emerged as a versatile option, potentially capturing a diverse range of species through its contrasting colors. Moreover, despite the close proximity of the two sites, differences in community composition suggest that habitat-specific factors influence bee color preferences. Minor habitat changes significantly impacted trap effectiveness, emphasizing the importance of tailored trap designs. These findings highlight the importance of considering both color contrast and habitat context when designing bee monitoring strategies and understanding bee foraging behavior. This study contributes valuable insights to improve trap designs and enhance our understanding of the interactions between bees and their environments.
The Cardiovascular Manifestations and Management Recommendations for Ogden Syndrome
Authors: Makwana Rikhil , Patel Rahi , O’Neill Rosemary , Marchi Elaine , Lyon Gholson J.
Published: February 2025

The NatA complex is composed of the NAA10, NAA15, and HYPK subunits. It is primarily responsible for N-terminal acetylation, a critical post-translational modification in eukaryotes. Pathogenic variants withinNAA10cause Ogden Syndrome (OS), which is characterized by varying degrees of intellectual disability, hypotonia, developmental delay, and cardiac abnormalities. Although the cardiac manifestations of the disease have been described extensively in case reports, there has not been a study focusing on the cardiac manifestations and their recommended clinical cardiac management. In this study, we describe the cardiac manifestations of OS in a cohort of 85 probands. We found increased incidence of structural and electrophysiologic abnormalities, with particularly high prevalence of QT interval prolongation. Sub-analysis showed that male probands and those with variants within the NAA15-binding domain had more severe phenotypes than females or those with variants outside of the NAA15-binding domain. Our results suggest that an OS diagnosis should be accompanied by full cardiac workup with emphasis on echocardiogram for structural defects and EKG/Holter monitoring for electrophysiologic abnormalities. Additionally, we strongly recommend that the use of QT-prolonging drugs be followed up with routine electrophysiological monitoring or consultation with a pediatric cardiologist. We hope this study guides clinicians and caregivers treating patients with OS and moves the field toward a standardized diagnostic workup for patients with this condition.
Determinants of Modern Contraceptive Use among Women of reproductive age in Cambodia: How are geographical and socio-demographic factors associated with access?
Authors: Um Samnang , Chamroen Pall , Sieng Chantrea , Heng Sovandara , Ku Grace Marie
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Using modern contraceptives is essential for promoting economics, limiting the space of pregnancies, and improving maternal and newborn health outcomes. Despite progress in Cambodia, disparities in contraceptive use persist, particularly across socio-demographic and geographic groups.

Methods

This study examined the prevalence and determinants of modern contraceptive use among married and sexually active women of reproductive age (15–49 years) in Cambodia, focusing on geographic and socio-demographic factors. Data from the 2021–2022 Cambodia Demographic and Health Survey (CDHS) were analyzed, including those of 13,492 women. Modern contraceptive use was defined as the self-reported current use of methods such as sterilization, IUDs, implants, pills, injectables, condoms, and emergency contraception. Descriptive and logistic regression models were used to examine associations with factors such as geographic accessibility (distance to healthcare, transportation, residence, regions), socio-demographic characteristics, and healthcare access.

Results

The prevalence of modern contraceptive use was 45%, higher in rural areas (47%) than in urban areas (41.4%). Women living 20–40 minutes from healthcare facilities were less likely to use contraceptives (AOR = 0.87, 95% CI: 0.75–0.99) compared to those within 20 minutes. Motorcycle ownership was positively associated with contraceptive use (AOR = 1.29, 95% CI: 1.09–1.53). Higher odds of use were observed among women with two (AOR = 29.33) or three or more children (AOR = 30.76). Contraceptive use was lower among wealthier women and those aged 35–49 compared to younger women (15–19).

Conclusion

These findings highlight the need for targeted interventions, including expanded rural healthcare, transportation solutions, and tailored awareness campaigns, to improve equitable access to family planning services and support Cambodia’s health goals.
Day-to-Day Sleep Efficiency and Driving Behaviors in Older Adults with and without Cognitive Impairment
Authors: Chang Jun Ha , Huang Yunwen , Zhang Ying , Chen Su , Murman Daniel L. , Phatak Vaishali , Rizzo Matthew
Published: February 2025

Structured Abstract

INTRODUCTION

Sleep disturbances are common in older adults, particularly those with cognitive impairment. This study examines how day-to-day sleep quality impacts real-world driving behaviors, offering insights into sleep as a functional biomarker of cognitive health.

METHODS

We monitored 149 community-dwelling older adults (90 cognitively impaired, 59 unimpaired) over 12 weeks. Sleep was measured via wrist-worn actigraphy and driving data via an in-vehicle sensor system. A zero-inflated Poisson regression model examined whether sleep efficiency was associated next-day driving likelihood and frequency, and whether these relationships varied by cognitive status.

RESULTS

Better sleep efficiency increased the likelihood of driving the following day more among cognitively impaired than unimpaired participants. Higher sleep efficiency was associated with increased driving frequency in both groups.

DISCUSSION

These findings underscore the importance of daily sleep variability as a potential digital biomarker for functional abilities in older adults, highlighting opportunities for early intervention to preserve mobility and independence.
KLP-6 is a kinesin superfamily protein resistant to ADP inhibition
Authors: Kita Tomoki , Niwa Shinsuke
Published: February 2025

Product inhibition is a type of enzyme inhibition in which the reaction product suppresses further enzyme activity. Kinesins are microtubule-dependent ATPases that move along microtubules by hydrolyzing ATP into ADP and inorganic phosphate (Pi). Like other ATPases, kinesins are inhibited by their hydrolysis product, ADP. In this study, we identified that theCaenorhabditis eleganskinesin-3, KLP-6, is minimally affected by ADP inhibition and continues to move along microtubules at an unreduced speed even in the presence of high concentration of ADP. The Michaelis constants for Mg·ATP (KW) and the inhibition constant for Mg·ADP (KI) were measured, revealing that theKI/KWratio of 44.9 for KLP-6 is significantly higher than the ratio of 1.3 observed for the well-studied kinesin-3, KIF1A. This indicates that KLP-6 exhibits a much higher preference for ATP over ADP. Amino acid sequence and structural comparisons between KLP-6 and other kinesin-3 members revealed that KLP-6 possesses a unique α2a helix and loop-5. Substituting these regions with those from KIF1A abolished KLP-6’s higher selectivity for ATP over ADP, confirming that these domains are crucial for its minimal ADP inhibition. Studying KLP-6 provides valuable insights into kinesin’s substrate selectivity and associated motor functions.
Temporal dynamics and policy implications in an innovation arms race
Authors: Chimento Michael , Dalmaijer Edwin , Klump Barbara , Aplin Lucy M
Published: February 2025

Human-modified environments offer novel resources, but their exploitation can be a source of human-wildlife conflict. Residents of Sydney have reported increasing cases of bin-opening behavior by sulphur-crested cockatoos (Cacatua galerita), with evidence this behavior is socially learned between birds. Households protected their bins, yet cockatoos have learned to defeat these defences. In response, residents increase their defence-level, setting the stage for a behavioral "arms race". Here, we investigate this arms race by combining field observations with agent-based modeling. We systematically document protections in a suburban locality over two years, revealing spatial clustering of protections indicative of social learning among residents. We find that protections have decreased since 2019, and overly-costly protection is dis-preferred. With a controlled assay, we characterize the knowledge of local cockatoos, finding differential proficiency in defeating protections. Surprisingly, we identified several cockatoos that can defeat high-efficacy protections, such as locks. Finally, we simulate interactions between two populations of learning agents representing households and cockatoos. We find that social learning accelerates adaptation in both species, while coordination reduces costs associated with defensive escalation. However, policy interventions can have unintended consequences, accelerating cockatoos' skill acquisition and shifting conflict to neighboring areas. Our findings highlight the dynamic nature of human-wildlife conflict and the importance of considering behavioral feedback loops in urban wildlife management.
Corporate Foundations' Governance Mechanisms as a Tool for Stakeholder Engagement
Authors: Touratier‐Muller Nathalie , Cournac Anna
Published: February 2025

Although governance and stakeholder practices have been widely researched in both the private and public sectors, governance still remains a fuzzy concept when it comes to corporate foundations (CFs). The latter target social creation, fulfilling societal needs and expectations. Using a multiple case study design in respect of 16 French CFs, this qualitative research contributes to the theoretical discussion around stakeholder engagement, examining how governance processes are implemented. Our results point out that involving the foundation's stakeholders is a roundabout way to engage in dialogue with and involve the company's stakeholders. New relationships and value propositions are then developed that have nothing to do with the company's core competencies. This study makes a major contribution to the CF' governance field by highlighting an imbalance between the impact of internal and external stakeholders, with an overinvestment of internal staff (employees and managers). The governance mechanisms are based on a three‐stage process (project submission, selection phase and final approval), in which external stakeholder involvement is limited. Finally, the analysis identifies that upward accountability practices are put in place (mainly toward the company), while horizontal accountability is respected but not publicly disclosed.
Exploring the relationship between hurricanes and online sex trafficking advertisements: using Hurricane Laura as a case study
Authors: Entress Rebecca , Huang Xi , Sadiq Abdul‐Akeem
Published: February 2025

Previous research suggests that sex traffickers may take advantage of vulnerable populations in the aftermath of disasters caused by natural hazards. Despite the amplification of vulnerabilities in the wake of such events and the increased likelihood of sex traffickers exploiting them, there is limited empirical evidence to show such a connection. The purpose of this study, therefore, is to answer the following research question: what is the relationship between hurricanes and online advertisements potentially linked to sex trafficking? Hurricane Laura (a Category 4 hurricane that occurred between 20 and 29 August 2020) serves as a case study and data are scraped from Escort Index, an aggregator of popular multi‐service adult entertainment platforms in the United States. The results show a significant negative relationship between Hurricane Laura and the number of online sex advertisements potentially linked to human trafficking. The study offers three alternative explanations for this finding and concludes by outlining additional areas of research on this important topic.
Impact of Various Detectable Interdental Clinical Attachment Loss Thresholds on the Estimated Prevalence, Stage and Extent of Periodontitis Based on the EFP/AAP Definition
Authors: Meng Wen , Wu Sicheng , Chen Huiwen , Song Zhongchen , Tonetti Maurizio S. , Lu Haixia
Published: February 2025

Aims

To investigate the influence of different detectable interdental clinical attachment loss (CAL) thresholds on estimated prevalence, stage and extent of periodontitis and to assess the influence of three methods in upgrading stage III cases to stage IV in completed surveys.

Materials and Methods

National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2011–2014 data of 7651 adults were used. The CDC/AAP definition and the EFP/AAP definition with interdental CAL of 1, 2, 3 and 4 mm as the detectable threshold were applied. Three methods (< 10 opposing pairs of natural teeth, < 20 remaining natural teeth or < 10 remaining natural teeth in one jaw) were used to upgrade stage III cases to stage IV.

Results

Estimated periodontitis prevalence was 37.0%, 92.6%, 91.7%, 66.7% and 32.9% using the CDC/AAP definition and the EFP/AAP definition, with 1‐, 2‐, 3‐ and 4‐mm thresholds, respectively. As the threshold increased, stage I/II cases decreased, resulting in higher estimated disease extent in stage II cases. Compared with the use of 20 remaining teeth, the use of 10 opposing pairs yielded a nearly 4% increase in the estimated prevalence of stage IV cases.

Conclusions

Different detectable thresholds and opposing pair approximation methods could influence estimated periodontitis prevalence, stage and extent.
No‐Prep Zirconia Cantilever Resin‐Bonded Fixed Dental Prostheses: A Noninvasive, Simple Approach to Replacing a Single Missing Tooth
Authors: Mainjot Amélie Karine Jacques
Published: February 2025

Objectives

To introduce no‐prep zirconia cantilever resin‐bonded fixed dental prostheses (Z‐RBFDPs) as a noninvasive and simple approach to replacing individual anterior and posterior teeth.

Clinical Considerations

Sixteen no‐prep Z‐RBFDPs were placed in 11 patients with a single missing tooth (15 lateral incisors, 1 canine, and 1 premolar); nine exhibited bruxism, and four used a nightguard. Bridges were bonded using a rubber dam and Panavia V5 resin cement after grit‐blasting zirconia, etching the enamel (n = 13) or Vita Enamic palatal veneer (n = 3), and applying an MDP‐based primer. The survival rate was 100% after a mean follow‐up of 3.0 ± 2.6 years (range: 1 month–9.5 years). An Z‐RBFDP on an upper canine showed debonding after 2 years, and the bonding procedure was successfully repeated. Patient‐reported outcomes were positive. Key considerations included restoration design, material selection, bonding procedures, and multidisciplinary soft tissue management. An innovative 3D‐printed resin guide was introduced to ensure accurate bridge positioning during the bonding procedure, and the simple orthodontic extrusion technique was used to manage the limited occlusal space.

Conclusion

This case series provides proof of principle for no‐prep Z‐RBFDPs, demonstrating high survival and success rates, even in the presence of known risk factors such as bruxism and unfavorable occlusal relationships.

Clinical Significance

No‐prep Z‐RBFDPs offer a promising, noninvasive, cost‐effective, and straightforward alternative to dental implants for single‐tooth replacement. They effectively avoid related complications such as infraposition and peri‐implantitis. Further research is required to validate these preliminary findings, particularly for posterior applications. Treatment choices should increasingly align with the patient's preference for noninvasive procedures that prioritize tooth tissue preservation and avoid surgical interventions, as demonstrated in this case series.
Effects of Different Preservatives During Ecological Monitoring of Myxozoan Parasite Tetracapsuloides bryosalmonae Causing Proliferative Kidney Disease (PKD) in Salmonids
Authors: Philpott Duncan , Näslund Joacim , Donadi Serena , Burimski Oksana , Lauringson Magnus , Pukk Lilian , Vasemägi Anti
Published: February 2025

Effective sample preservation is essential in large‐scale population monitoring, particularly for molecular genetic analyses of pathogens, and for measuring disease symptoms in hosts. In such monitoring cases, disease symptoms can indicate poor habitat health, as they often coincide with elevated temperatures and suboptimal environmental conditions. This study examines the effect of two preservatives; 95% ethanol and 99% isopropanol on the assessment of proliferative kidney disease (PKD) in the renal tissue of young‐of‐the‐year brown trout (Salmo trutta). Specifically, we studied the effect of preservatives on the physical measurement of a primary symptom of PKD, renal hyperplasia. Furthermore, we evaluated the effect of preservatives on the molecular detection and quantification of the causative PKD agent myxozoan parasite Tetracapsuloides bryosalmonae. Our results indicate that isopropanol‐preserved samples exhibit greater renal tissue shrinkage, with the most pronounced differences observed in smaller fish when compared to ethanol‐preserved samples. This difference in shrinkage is great enough to disguise symptomatic fish when observing renal hyperplasia with mixed storage mediums. However, both preservatives were found to be suitable for DNA extraction of sufficient quality for detection and quantification of the parasite using qPCR with no statistically significant differences in DNA yield or parasite load due to the type of preservative. We found that while ethanol is preferable for ease of dissection, isopropanol is a suitable alternative for PKD monitoring in wild fish, especially where access to ethanol may be limited. Understanding the difference in tissue shrinkage caused by the two preservatives can enable compensatory adjustment and maintain higher standards of data accuracy when assessing the severity of Tetracapsuloides bryosalmonae infection.
Coupled hydraulic and whole‐plant economic strategies in twenty warm‐temperate woody species
Authors: Li Q. , Wang N. , Liu X. , Sun X. , Li X. , Du N. , Wang H. , Wang R.
Published: February 2025

The iso‐ to anisohydric continuum describes how plant regulate water potential and has been used to classify species hydraulic strategies. The slow to fast continuum is a whole‐plant strategy for resource acquisition and utilization. The relationship between hydraulic and whole‐plant economic strategy could provide a comprehensive method for assessing plants performance.

We quantified the degree of isohydricity of 20 woody species in a warm temperate forest. We also measured other functional traits associated with hydraulic and economic strategies (leaf gas exchange, pressure–volume traits, predawn and midday water potential, native and maximum stem hydraulic conductivity, Huber value, and wood density), then explored the underlying trade‐offs. Pearson correlations and PCA were performed to assess relationships between isohydricity and other functional traits.

We found a coordinated series of iso‐ anisohydric and slow–fast spectra, where species percentage loss of hydraulic conductivity (PLC) and wood density (WD) were the two most powerful proxies. Along the coordinated continuum, the anisohydric species had higher leaf gas exchange, PLC, and water potential at the turgor loss point, and lower WD than the isohydrics.

We found that isohydric species have high drought tolerance, giving them a greater chance of survival than the anisohydric species as drought events are anticipated to be more frequent and severe under global climate change. Identification of associated spectra among plant ecological strategies may increase understanding of how woody plants in temperate forests will respond to climate changes.
Attitudes to Nigerian Englishes in higher education
Authors: Aboh Sopuruchi Christian
Published: February 2025

Although there is a bourgeoning of studies on attitudes towards Nigerian Englishes, there is limited research on the effects of participants’ discipline (STEM and non‐STEM) and the type of secondary school (private and government) they attended in evaluating Nigerian Englishes. Examining these new variables is particularly critical in understanding how educational background impacts language attitudes, given the disparities in educational resources between government and private schools. Thus, this study uses a verbal‐guise experiment to examine the attitudes of 406 Nigerian students towards three Nigerian Englishes (Hausa English, Igbo English and Yoruba English). The MANOVA results show that the STEM participants rated the varieties more favourably than the non‐STEM participants. The results also indicate that participants who attended government secondary schools evaluated the varieties more favourably than those who attended private secondary schools. This study contributes to the literature on language attitudes and community of practice.
Quantifying Real-Time Dynamic Responses and Damage Mechanics of Human Tympanic Membranes Exposed to Blast Waves
Authors: Oliveira Luiz Jonathan , Alipanahi Anahita , Rosowski John , Furlong Cosme , Cheng Jeffrey Tao
Published: February 2025

Understanding the tympanic membrane's (TM, or eardrum) response to high-intensity acoustical events, such as blasts, is crucial for preventing and treating blast-induced auditory injuries. Despite its importance, there remains a gap in methodologies and measurements of the TM's rapid dynamic responses to these events. This study investigates the behavior of human TMs exposed to blasts using a novel system that integrates high-speed quantitative imaging techniques with a custom shock tube (ST). High-speed 3D-Digital Image Correlation (DIC) and high-speed Schlieren imaging techniques are applied in synchronization with high-speed pressure sensors to quantify generation and propagation of shock wave (SW) and its interaction with the TM during the tests. Additionally, digital microscopy and Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) are utilized to characterize the TM?s morphology pre- and post-blast exposure. The full-field high-speed dynamic responses of cadaveric human TMs and their fluid-solid interactions with different levels of blast overpressures are presented, and the rupture of the TMs is described in real-time. These measurements are employed to assess whether the TM behaves as a thin shell under exposure to high acoustical events. The findings from these studies enhance the comprehension of the TM's biomechanics and damage mechanics under harsh conditions, thereby advancing prevention and treatment strategies for blast-induced auditory damage.
Malignant pleural mesothelioma
Authors: Rao D Pragati , Vijayan Sruthy , Vananjakar Shashidhar S , T Prasanna Kumar
Published: February 2025

Malignant pleural mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive tumour of the pleura, commonly linked to asbestos exposure. However, its diagnosis is challenging, especially without known exposure. We present the case of a woman in her early 70s with no history of asbestos exposure, who presented with progressive breathlessness and left-sided chest pain. Radiological assessment revealed a large pleural effusion and nodular pleural thickening. Malignant pleural mesothelioma was confirmed through histopathological analysis of biopsies obtained via medical thoracoscopy. The patient was initiated on a palliative chemotherapy regimen, underwent talc slurry pleurodesis for recurrent effusion, and is currently under follow-up. This case emphasises the importance of a high index of suspicion for malignant pleural mesothelioma in patients with unexplained pleural effusion, even in the absence of typical risk factors, and the need for a timely diagnosis due to the disease’s dismal prognosis.
Prognostic significance of pigmentation and stem cell markers in Indian population of uveal melanoma
Authors: Kumar Nikhil , Singh Mithalesh Kumar , Singh Lata , Jha Jayanti , Pushker Neelam , Lomi Neiwete , Meel Rachna , Sen Seema , Kashyap Seema
Published: February 2025

Background

Increased pigmentation has been associated with cancer stem-cell-like behaviour and chemoresistance in uveal melanoma (UM) and cutaneous melanoma. Therefore, our present study determines the correlation between pigmentation and cancer stem cell markers in UM patients.

Methods

Expression of PAX3, CD133, ABCG2, TRYP1, TRYP2 and microphthalmia-associated transcription factor (MITF) was assessed by immunohistochemistry along with mRNA expression level of PAX3 using quantitative real-time PCR in 70 prospective UM cases. Kaplan-Meier analysis and Cox-proportional hazards model were used to analyse the correlation of protein expression with clinicopathological parameters and patient outcome.

Results

We found significant expression of PAX3, CD133 and ABCG2 proteins in 28/70 (40%), 34/70 (49%) and 31/70 (44%) cases, respectively. There was a positive correlation between nuclear expression of PAX3 and high-risk clinicopathological parameters such as necrosis and scleral invasion (p<0.01). CD133 and ABCG2 expression were positively correlated with distant metastasis (p=0.03 and 0.01). Immunoexpression of PAX3, CD133 and ABCG2 proteins was positively correlated with MITF. TYRP2 expression correlated with PAX3 and ABCG2 immunoexpression. Tumour pigmentation was not correlated with any of the markers. PAX3 mRNA expression was positively correlated with immunoexpression of CD133 (p<0.01), ABCG2 (p=0.01) and distant metastasis (p<0.01). On Kaplan-Meier survival analysis, reduced metastasis-free survival was observed in patients with tumours showing high CD133 and ABCG2 expression. No significant correlation was observed between tumour pigmentation and overall survival.

Conclusion

Our study highlights the association between PAX3 expression, pigmentation markers such as MITF and TRYP2 and cancer stem-cell markers in UM progression.