bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Viral K1 Killer Yeast System: Toxicity, Immunity, and Resistance
Authors: Chan Angelina , Hays Michelle , Sherlock Gavin
Published: January 2025

Killer yeasts, such as the K1 killer strain of S. cerevisiae, express a secreted anti‐competitive toxin whose production and propagation require the presence of two vertically‐transmitted dsRNA viruses. In sensitive cells lacking killer virus infection, toxin binding to the cell wall results in ion pore formation, disruption of osmotic homeostasis, and cell death. However, the exact mechanism(s) of K1 toxin killing activity, how killer yeasts are immune to their own toxin, and which factors could influence adaptation and resistance to K1 toxin within formerly sensitive populations are still unknown. Here, we describe the state of knowledge about K1 killer toxin, including current models of toxin processing and killing activity, and a summary of known modifiers of K1 toxin immunity and resistance. In addition, we discuss two key signaling pathways, HOG (high osmolarity glycerol) and CWI (cell wall integrity), whose involvement in an adaptive response to K1 killer toxin in sensitive cells has been previously documented but requires further study. As both host‐virus and sensitive‐killer competition have been documented in killer systems like K1, further characterization of K1 killer yeasts may provide a useful model system for study of both intracellular genetic conflict and counter‐adaptation between competing sensitive and killer populations.
Noncommutative Schur functions for posets
Authors: Blasiak J. , Eriksson H. , Pylyavskyy P. , Siegl I.
Published: January 2025

The machinery of noncommutative Schur functions is a general approach to Schur positivity of symmetric functions initiated by Fomin-Greene. Hwang recently adapted this theory to posets to give a new approach to the Stanley-Stembridge conjecture. We further develop this theory to prove that the symmetric function associated to any P-Knuth equivalence graph is Schur positive. This settles a conjecture of Kim and the third author, and refines results of Gasharov, Shareshian-Wachs, and Hwang on the Schur positivity of chromatic symmetric functions.
Quality of referrals and adherence to guidelines for adult patients with minimal to moderate head injuries in a selection of Norwegian hospitals
Authors: Kjelle Elin , Brandsæter Ingrid Øfsti , Lauritzen Peter Mæhre , Andersen Eivind Richter , Porthun Jan , Hofmann Bjørn Morten
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This study aimed to assess adherence to the Scandinavian guidelines, the justification of referrals, and the quality of referrals of patients with mild, minimal, and moderate head injuries in a selection of Norwegian hospitals.

Methods

We collected 283 head CT referrals for head trauma patients at one hospital trust in Norway in 2022. The data included the patients’ sex, age, and the referral text. Six radiologists independently assessed all referrals using a registration form developed based on the Scandinavian guidelines for patients with mild, minimal, and moderate head injuries and general referral guidelines. Descriptive statistics was used to analyze data on adherence to guidelines, while Gwet’s AC1/2 was used to test the agreement between the raters.

Results

This study found that 65% of referrals were assessed to be justified according to the guideline by at least one rater, while 17% were rated justified outside the guideline. In 52%, at least one rater required more information. There was good to moderate interrater agreement.

Conclusions

Adherence to the Scandinavian guidelines and the quality of referrals of patients with mild, minimal, and moderate head injuries are low. Training and using S100B is recommended to improve the justification rate and quality of patient care.
Increasing prehospital tourniquet use attributed to non-indicated use: an 11-year retrospective study
Authors: Hedger Daniel J. , Smith Mitchell , Weaver Natasha , Bendall Jason , Balogh Zsolt J.
Published: January 2025

Purpose

The use of prehospital tourniquets (PHTQ) for haemorrhage control in the civilian trauma population has increased over the past decade with some reports documenting the overuse of the device. The aim of this study was to identify the proportion of PHTQ use that is non-indicated and determine how this proportion is changing over time.

Methods

An 11-year retrospective study was performed at a Level-1 Trauma Centre on all trauma patients admitted with a PHTQ. Local PHTQ guidelines were used to define non-indicated use. Collected variables included patient demographics, injury characteristics, tourniquet application characteristics, prehospital data, emergency department data, and clinical outcomes. The primary outcome was non-indicated PHTQ use. The secondary outcome was complications attributed to PHTQ use.

Results

There were 88 PHTQ applications to 88 extremity injuries in 86 patients (n = 86, median (IQR) age 43 (28–57) years, 85% male). PHTQ use was deemed non-indicated in 68 cases (68/88, 77% [95%CI 67-86%]). The proportion of non-indicated PHTQ use increased over the period of the study period (p = 0.03). At least one complication potentially from PHTQ use was seen in 33 patients (33/86, 38%). In patients with prolonged tourniquet time (n = 13), at least one complication from PHTQ use was seen in 11 patients (11/13, 85%).

Conclusion

Over this 11-year period, we identified that the increase in PHTQ use in civilian trauma is from increasing non-indicated use. Given that complications are associated with unnecessary PHTQ use, the adherence to the guidelines needs to be urgently reinforced.
The severely injured older patient: identifying patients at high risk for mortality using the Dutch National Trauma Registry
Authors: van Ameijden Sara , de Jongh Mariska , Poeze Martijn
Published: January 2025

Purpose

The incidence of severely injured older trauma patients is increasing globally, portraying high mortality rates. Exploring the demographics and clinical outcomes of this subgroup is essential to further improve specialised care at the right place. This study was performed to identify severely injured older patients at high risk for mortality by examining their characteristics and identifying prognostic factors contributing to mortality.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study was conducted using data from the Dutch National Trauma Registry to identify all trauma patients aged 70 years and older from 2016 to 2022. Subgroup analyses for characteristics and outcomes were performed based on Injury Severity Score (ISS) 16–24 and ISS ≥ 25, as well as age groups of 70–79, 80–89 and ≥ 90 years. A logistic, backwards regression analysis was performed to identify predictors for mortality within each ISS groups.

Results

In total, 10,901 patients were included. The mean age was comparable between the ISS groups (80.48 ± 6.8 vs. 80.54 ± 6.6 years). The main trauma mechanisms in both the ISS 16–24 and ISS ≥ 25 were low energy falls and bicycle accidents. The head and thorax were the most frequently injured body regions, with a significantly higher proportion of severe head injuries in the ISS ≥ 25 group (32.6% vs. 73.4%). Mortality rates increased significantly with higher injury severity (13.9% vs. 48.9%) and advancing age (22.6% vs. 32.4% vs. 35.8%). The most significant predictors of mortality in the ISS 16–24 group were an increase in ASA score and a GCS 3–8 at arrival (OR for GCS: 7.2 (95% CI 5.7–9.1), AUC 0.76). Similarly, in the ISS ≥ 25 group, an increased ASA score and a GCS 3–8 at arrival were the most significant predictors of mortality as well (OR for GCS: 10.8 (9.1–12.9), AUC 0.79). Although increasing age was also associated with a higher risk of mortality in both ISS groups, its impact was less significant than the aforementioned variables.

Conclusion

Severe injuries in older patients are predominantly caused by low energy falls and bicycle accidents, leading to high mortality rates. A low GCS at arrival and high ASA scores are most strongly associated with an increased risk for mortality. Notably, despite the prevalence of severe injuries among the oldest patients, the proportion of intensive care unit admissions decreases markedly with age. This raises the question what feasible care for these often frail patients should comprise of and where this care should be provided, especially for those with severe pre-existent comorbidities.

Level of evidence and study type

Level III, prognostic/epidemiological.
Neural cue reactivity and intrinsic functional connectivity in individuals with alcohol use disorder following treatment with topiramate or naltrexone
Authors: Logge Warren B. , Haber Paul S. , Hurzeler Tristan , Gallagher Hugh , Kranzler Henry , Morley Kirsten C.
Published: January 2025

Rationale

Both topiramate and naltrexone have been shown to affect neural alcohol cue reactivity in alcohol use disorder (AUD). However, their comparative effects on alcohol cue reactivity are unknown. Moreover, while naltrexone has been found to normalize hyperactive localized network connectivity implicated in AUD, no studies have examined the effect of topiramate on intrinsic functional connectivity or compared functional connectivity between these two widely used medications.

Objective

This study compared topiramate versus naltrexone on alcohol cue-elicited brain activation and intrinsic functional connectivity in patients with alcohol use disorder.

Methods

Forty-seven participants with alcohol use disorder received daily topiramate (titrating the dose up to 200 mg/day n = 21) or naltrexone (50 mg/day, n = 26) for at least 6 weeks. Using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), we examined intrinsic functional connectivity during rest and alcohol cue-elicited neural activation during a visual alcohol cue reactivity task 120 min following treatment administration. Functional connectivity and alcohol cue reactivity and percentage of heavy drinking days (% HDD) associations were assessed.

Results

No differences in either intrinsic functional connectivity or alcohol cue-elicited neural activity were seen between topiramate and naltrexone-treated groups. Overall, participants showed increased alcohol cue-elicited activation in three clusters spanning occipital regions involved in visual recognition of stimuli, and hypoactivation to both alcohol and control cues in three clusters involved in salience attribution and processing of emotional valence of external stimuli. No differences between topiramate versus naltrexone were observed for either functional measure or associations with post-scan % HDD.

Conclusions

Topiramate and naltrexone enacted comparable alcohol cue reactivity and intrinsic functional connectivity patterns. Some overall responses of increased brain activation to alcohol cues in visual processing regions coupled with reduced activation to alcohol and control cues were evidenced for both treatments. These activation patterns were in regions expected to show attenuation of brain activity resulting from treatment. Topiramate and naltrexone may thus enact functional effects through similar modulation of functional neural activity in individuals with AUD.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03479086 https://www.clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT03479086.
Relationship assessment of microbial community and cometabolic consumption of 2-chlorophenol
Authors: Martínez-Jardines Miguel , Oltehua-López Omar , Martínez-Hernández Sergio , Texier Anne-Claire , de María Cuervo-López Flor
Published: January 2025

The relationship of microbial community and cometabolic consumption of 2-chlorophenol (2-CP) in a nitrifying sequencing batch reactor (SBR) was studied. The assessment of the population dynamics of the nitrifying sludge during the cometabolic 2-CP consumption with increasing ammonium (NH4
+) concentrations in the SBR showed the presence of 39 different species of which 10 were always present in all cycles. Fifty-five percent of the species found were grouped as Proteobacteria (45% as β-proteobacteria and 10% as γ-proteobacteria class), 30% as Acidobacteria, and 15% as Deinococcus-Thermus phyla. NH4
+ and cometabolic 2-CP consumption could be related to the presence and permanence of ammonium-oxidizing bacteria (AOB) species and heterotrophic bacteria, while the complete nitrification to the presence of nitrite-oxidizing bacteria (NOB) species. A correlation analysis showed that the complete and stable nitrifying performance (NH4
+ consumption efficiencies (ENH4
+-N) > 99% and nitrate production yields (YNO3
−-N) between 0.93 and 0.99), as well as the increase in specific rates (ammonium (qNH4
+-N) and 2-CP (q2-CP-C) consumption and nitrate production (qNO3
−-N)), was associated with the homogeneity of the bacterial community (J index = 0.99). The increase in the proportion of individuals of AOB species such as Nitrosomonas oligotropha and Nitrosomonas marina was associated with the increase in qNH4
+-N (r ≥ 0.69) and q2-CP-C (r ≥ 0.64) and, therefore, with the 2-CP cometabolic consumption in the SBR. Finally, the increase in the proportion of individuals of heterotrophic species such as Dokdonella ginsengisoli, Deinococcus peraridilitoris, Truepera radiovictrix, and Stenotrophobacter terrae was associated with the increase in q2-CP-C (r ≥ 0.59).

Key points

• Thirty-nine bacterial species were identified in the nitrifying sludge population of the SBR.

• β-Proteobacteria and Acidobacteria were the prevalent (85%) bacterial groups.

• AOB and heterotrophic bacteria participate in NH

4

+

and cometabolic 2-CP consumption.

Graphical abstract
Dynamic wall shear stress measurement using event-based 3d particle tracking
Authors: Willert Christian E. , Klinner Joachim
Published: January 2025

We describe the implementation of a 3d Lagrangian particle tracking (LPT) system based on event-based vision (EBV) and demonstrate its application for the near-wall characterization of a turbulent boundary layer (TBL) in air. The viscous sublayer of the TBL is illuminated by a thin light sheet that grazes the surface of a thin glass window inserted into the wind tunnel wall. The data simultaneously captured by three synchronized event cameras are used to reconstruct the 3d particle tracks within

$$400\,\upmu \text{m}$$

400

μ
m

of the wall on a field of view of

$$12.0\,\text{mm} \times 7.5\,\text{mm}$$

12.0

mm
×
7.5

mm

. The velocity and position of particles within the viscous sublayer permit the estimation of the local vector of the unsteady wall shear stress (WSS) under the assumption of linearity between particle velocity and WSS. Thereby, time-evolving maps of the unsteady WSS and higher-order statistics are obtained that are in agreement with DNS data at matching Reynolds number. Near-wall particle acceleration provides the rate of change of the WSS which exhibits fully symmetric log-normal superstatistics. Two-point correlations of the randomly spaced WSS data are obtained by a bin-averaging approach and reveal information on the spacing of near-wall streaks. The employed compact EBV hardware coupled with suited LPT tracking algorithms provides data quality on par with currently used, considerably more expensive, high-speed framing cameras.
Development and Application of Cavity-based Absorption Spectroscopy in Atmospheric Chemistry: Recent Progress
Authors: Zhao Weixiong , Yang Nana , Hu Renzhi , Fang Bo , Zhou Jiacheng , Lin Chuan , Cheng Feihu , Xie Pinhua , Zhang Weijun
Published: January 2025

Atmospheric chemistry research and atmospheric measurement techniques have mutually promoted each other and developed rapidly in China in recent years. Cavity-based absorption spectroscopy, which uses a high-finesse cavity to achieve very long absorption path-length, thereby achieving ultra-high detection sensitivity, plays an extremely important role in atmospheric chemistry research. Based on the Beer–Lambert law, this technology has the unique advantages of being non-destructive, chemical-free, and highly selective. It does not require any sample preparation and can quantitatively analyze atmospheric trace gases in real time and in situ. In this paper, we review the following: (1) key technological advances in different cavity-based absorption spectroscopy techniques, including cavity ring-down spectroscopy, cavity-enhanced absorption spectroscopy, cavity attenuated phase shift spectroscopy, and their extensions; and (2) applications of these techniques in the detection of atmospheric reactive species, such as total peroxy radical, formaldehyde, and reactive nitrogen (e.g., NO
x
, HONO, peroxy nitrates, and alkyl nitrates). The review systematically introduces cavity-based absorption spectroscopy techniques and their applications in atmospheric chemistry, which will help promote further communication and cooperation in the fields of laser spectroscopy and atmospheric chemistry.
Effect of dietary phenolic compounds intake on mortality in the “Seguimiento Universidad De Navarra” (SUN) Mediterranean cohort
Authors: Vázquez-Ruiz Zenaida , Toledo Estefanía , Vitelli-Storelli Facundo , Bes-Rastrollo Maira , Martínez-González Miguel Ángel
Published: January 2025

Plant-based dietary patterns have been demonstrated to reduce the risk of non-communicable disease (NCD), including cardiovascular disease (CVD), type 2 diabetes, cancer, and all-cause mortality. Phenolic compounds (PC), abundant in plant-based foods, have been considered as instrumental in this attenuation of NCD risk. We evaluated the association between dietary intake of PC and the risk of all-cause mortality in a relatively young Mediterranean cohort of 18,173 Spanish participants in the “Seguimiento Universidad de Navarra” (SUN) project, after a median follow-up of 12.7 years. Intake of PC was estimated at baseline and repeatedly after 10-year follow-up using a 136-item validated food frequency questionnaire and the Phenol-Explorer database. During 236,329 person-years, 544 deaths were confirmed. Cox regression models compared low intake (lowest quintile) vs. high intake (the four upper quintiles merged, as a reference category) of total energy-adjusted PC intake. Adjusted hazard ratios (HR) for low PC intake among those participants aged over 45 years during follow-up were 1.32; 95% CI 1.02–1.71 for all-cause mortality, HR:1.44; 95% CI 1.02–2.02 for cancer mortality; HR: 0.88; 95% CI 0.47–1.66 for CVD mortality and HR: 1.69 95% CI 1.04–2.74 for causes of death other than cancer or CVD. In conclusion, a low intake of total PC was associated with a significantly higher risk of all-cause mortality, and, specifically, a higher risk for cancer in a relatively young cohort. Among PC classes a low intake of flavonoids and phenolic acids showed significant effects for non-cancer/non-CVD mortality. Cherries, chocolate, apples and pears, olives, and coffee, were the major sources of between-person variability for total PC intake in our Mediterranean cohort.
Cost and outcomes of side-to-side versus end-to-end anastomosis in right colectomy: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Herzog Kim , Taha-Mehlitz Stephanie , Denhaerynck Kris , Steinemann Daniel C. , Guenin Marc-Olivier , von Strauss und Torney Marco
Published: January 2025

Background

The optimal anastomotic configuration for right-sided colectomies remains controversial, with comparable postoperative outcomes across techniques. Thus, economic considerations may play a larger role in decision-making within cost-constrained healthcare settings.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study evaluated right-sided colectomies with ileocolic anastomosis at a Swiss tertiary center between 2016 and 2021. We compared costs and outcomes among three anastomotic techniques: end-to-end (EE), side-to-side stapled (SSS), and side-to-side hand-sewn (SSH).

Results

Out of 468 patients (mean age 67.7 ± 16.2 years; 51.7% female), EE was used in 95 cases (20.3%), SSS in 191 (40.8%), and SSH in 182 (38.9%). The majority (72.0%) underwent elective surgery. Insurance coverage included basic (62.2%), semi-private (24.2%), and private (13.7%). Mean operation times were shortest for EE (173.6 ± 72.3 min), followed by SSS (188.0 ± 65.4 min) and SSH (195.1 ± 61.5 min). The median total costs were 26,449 €. The SSS group had the lowest median total costs, 2424 € less than SSH and 2095 € less than EE, with no significant differences (p = 0.1657). Significant differences were observed in operating room (OR) costs, with EE being the lowest and SSH the highest (p < 0.0001). Adjusted OR costs in SSH were 23% more than EE and 21% more than SSS. No significant difference was found between EE and SSS OR costs. For mean OR material costs, EE had the lowest, followed by SSS and SSH. Adjusted costs for EE were 52% lower than SSS (p = 0.0005) and 65% lower than SSH (p = 0.0191).

Clavien-Dindo Grade ≥ III complication rates were 2.1% for EE, 1.9% for SSH, and 3.0% for SSS. Anastomotic leakage occurred in 12 cases (2.6%), and in-hospital mortality was 0.9% (no deaths in EE; two in SSS and SSH each).

Conclusions

EE anastomosis was associated with the lowest OR and material costs in this retrospective analysis while no disadvantages concerning postoperative outcomes could be identified.
The MASCC COG-IMPACT: An unmet needs assessment for cancer-related cognitive impairment impact developed by the Multinational Association of Supportive Care in Cancer
Authors: Haywood Darren , Chan Alexandre , Chan Raymond J. , Baughman Frank D. , Dauer Evan , Dhillon Haryana M. , Henneghan Ashley M. , Lawrence Blake J. , Lustberg Maryam B. , O’Connor Moira , Vardy Janette L. , Rossell Susan L. , Hart Nicolas H.
Published: January 2025

Purpose

Cancer-related cognitive impairment (CRCI) can have a profound impact on the lives of cancer survivors. A multitude of subjective and objective assessment tools exist to assess the presence and severity of CRCI. However, no purpose-built tool exists to assess the unmet needs of cancer survivors directly relating to CRCI. This paper details the development and initial validation of the Multinational Association of Supportive Care in 
Cancer - Unmet Needs Assessment of Cancer-Related Cognitive Impairment Impact (the MASCC COG-IMPACT).

Methods

A multistep mixed-methods measurement development and validation approach was taken with a strong emphasis on co-design. Qualitative interviews were conducted with cancer survivors (n = 32) and oncology health professionals (n = 19), followed by a modified Delphi survey with oncology health professionals (n = 29). Cognitive interviews with cancer survivors (n = 22) over two rounds were then conducted to finalise the penultimate version of the unmet needs assessment tool for CRCI. Four-hundred and ninety-one (n = 491) cancer survivors then completed the MASCC COG-IMPACT and other established measures to inform structural, reliability, validity, acceptability, appropriateness, and feasibility analyses.

Results

The final MASCC COG-IMPACT is a 55-item and eight subscale tool including two indices: “difficulties” and “unmet needs”. The MASCC COG-IMPACT was found to have strong structural validity, convergent validity, discriminant validity, internal consistency, and test–retest reliability. The MASCC COG-IMPACT was also found to be highly acceptable, appropriate, and feasible.

Conclusion

The MASCC COG-IMPACT may facilitate optimal care and referral in line with a cancer survivor’s CRCI-related difficulties and unmet needs. The MASCC COG-IMPACT may also be used to explore factors and contributors to CRCI-related difficulties and unmet needs. Overall, the MASCC COG-IMPACT is a highly reliable and valid tool for the assessment of CRCI-related difficulties and unmet needs in both clinical and research settings. The MASCC COG-IMPACT and supporting materials can be accessed on the MASCC webpage or via the MASCC COG-IMPACT Open Science Framework webpage (https://osf.io/5zc3a/).
The molecular mechanism of nitric oxide in memory consolidation and its role in the pathogenesis of memory-related disorders
Authors: Bahdar Zainab I. , Abu-El-Rub Ejlal , Almazari Rawan , Alzu’bi Ayman , Al-Zoubi Raed M.
Published: January 2025

Memory is a dynamic process of encoding, storing, and retrieving information. It includes sensory, short-term, and long-term memory, each with unique characteristics. Nitric oxide (NO) is a biological messenger synthesized on demand by neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) through a biochemical process initiated by glutamate binding to NMDA receptors, causing membrane depolarization and calcium influx. NO is known to regulate many signaling pathways including those related to memory consolidation. To throw light on the precise molecular mechanism of nitric oxide (NO) in memory consolidation and the possibility of targeting NO pathways as a therapeutic approach to scale down cognitive impairments. We conducted a search of the PubMed MEDLINE database, maintained by the US National Library of Medicine. The search strategy utilized Medical Subject Headings (MeSH) terms, including “nitric oxide and memory,” “nitric oxide synthesis in the brain,” “nitric oxide and Alzheimer’s,” “nitric oxide and Parkinson’s,” and “nitric oxide, neurodegenerative disorders, and psychiatric disorders.” Additionally, relevant keywords such as “nitric oxide,” “memory,” and “cognitive disorders” were employed. We included the most recent preclinical and clinical studies pertinent to the review topic and limited the selection to articles published in English. NO exerts its role in memory consolidation by diffusing between neurons to promote synaptic plasticity, especially long-term potentiation (LTP). It acts as a retrograde messenger, neurotransmitter release modulator, and synaptic protein modifier. The dysregulation of NO balance in the brain can contribute to the pathogenesis of various neurodegenerative diseases, particularly Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and psychiatric disorders. The disturbance in NO signaling is strongly correlated with synaptic signaling dysfunction and oxidative stress. NO plays a fundamental role in memory consolidation, and its dysregulation contributes to cognitive impairment—a hallmark of numerous neurodegenerative and psychiatric disorders. Future research should aim to deepen our understanding of the mechanisms underlying NO’s involvement in memory consolidation and to explore therapeutic strategies targeting the NO pathway to mitigate cognitive decline in affected individuals.
Comparison of low-level laser therapy versus neuromuscular electrical nerve stimulation at hemiplegic shoulder pain and upper extremity functions
Authors: Başaran Pınar Özge , Büyükşireci Dilek Eker
Published: January 2025

This study aimed to assess and compare the effectiveness of adding low-level laser therapy (LLLT) and neuromuscular electrical nerve stimulation (NMES) to conventional physical therapy exercises, for stroke patients with hemiplegic shoulder pain (HSP). Seventy-five stroke patients with shoulder pain were included in this prospective randomized controlled study. Participants were divided into three groups. All patients underwent a multidisciplinary rehabilitation program five days a week for four weeks for a total of twenty sessions with classical physical therapy exercises. In addition, Group 1 received LLLT for three days a week for four weeks. Group 2 received NMES for twenty minutes for five days a week for four weeks. Group 3 control group received classical physical therapy exercises. Brunnstrom (BRS) upper extremity, BRS Hand, Barthel index, Shoulder Pain and Disability Index (SPADI), Fugl Meyer, Modified Ashworth Scale (MAS) and visual analog scale (VAS) were assessed, prior to the treatment and at the end of four weeks. After treatment, statistically significant improvements were found in BRS upper extremity, BRS Hand, Barthel index, SPADI, Fugl Meyer and VAS in all three groups (all p < 0.005). When the groups were compared, significant improvements in Bartel, SPADI and VAS in the LLLT and NMES groups than the control group(all p < 0.005), however the LLLT and NMES groups were statistically similar. LLLT, NMES and conventional exercise therapy have demonstrated efficacy in treating HSP and improving upper extremity functions and disability. Laser and NMES were more effective while the effects of laser and NMES were similar.
On random coefficient INAR processes with long memory
Authors: Beran Jan , Droullier Frieder
Published: January 2025

We consider random coefficient INAR(1) processes with a strongly dependent latent random coefficient process. It is shown that, in spite of its conditional Markovian structure, the unconditional process exhibits long-range dependence. Short-term prediction and estimation of parameters involved in the prediction are considered. Asymptotic rates of convergence are derived.
Differentially private Choquet integral: extending mean, median, and order statistics
Authors: Torra Vicenç
Published: January 2025

The Choquet integral is a well known aggregation function that generalizes several other well known functions. For example, appropriate parameterizations reduce a Choquet integral to the arithmetic mean, the weighted mean, order statistics, and linear combination of order statistics. This integral has been used extensively in data fusion. We find applications in computer science, economy, and decision making. Formally, Choquet integrals integrate a function (the data to be aggregated) with respect to a non-additive measure also called a fuzzy measure (which represents the background knowledge on the information sources that provide the data to be aggregated). In this paper we propose a privacy preserving Choquet integral which satisfies differential privacy. Then, we study the sensitivity of the Choquet integral with respect to different types of fuzzy measures. Our results generalize previous knowledge about the sensitivity of minimum, maximum, and the arithmetic mean.
A difference finite element method based on nonconforming finite element methods for 3D elliptic problems
Authors: Song Jianjian , Sheen Dongwoo , Feng Xinlong , He Yinnian
Published: January 2025

In this paper, a class of 3D elliptic equations is solved by using the combination of the finite difference method in one direction and nonconforming finite element methods in the other two directions. A finite-difference (FD) discretization based on

$$P_1$$

P
1

-element in the z-direction and a finite-element (FE) discretization based on

$$P_1^{NC}$$

P
1

NC

-nonconforming element in the (x, y)-plane are used to convert the 3D equation into a series of 2D ones. This paper analyzes the convergence of

$$P_1^{NC}$$

P
1

NC

-nonconforming finite element methods in the 2D elliptic equation and the error estimation of the

$${H^1}$$

H
1

-norm of the DFE method. Finally, in this paper, the DFE method is tested on the 3D elliptic equation with the FD method based on the

$$P_1$$

P
1

element in the z-direction and the FE method based on the Crouzeix-Raviart element, the

$$P_1$$

P
1

linear element, the Park-Sheen element, and the

$$Q_1$$

Q
1

bilinear element, respectively, in the (x, y)-plane.
Assessing spatially explicit long-term landscape dynamics based on automated production of land category layers from Danish late nineteenth-century topographic maps in comparison with contemporary maps
Authors: Levin Gregor , Groom Geoff , Svenningsen Stig Roar
Published: January 2025

Historical topographical maps contain valuable, spatially and thematically detailed information about past landscapes. Yet, for analyses of landscape dynamics through geographical information systems, it is necessary to “unlock” this information via map processing. For two study areas in northern and central Jutland, Denmark, we apply object-based image analysis, vector GIS, colour image segmentation, and machine learning processes to produce machine-readable layers for the land use and land cover categories forest, wetland, heath, dune sand, and water bodies from topographic maps from the late nineteenth century. Obtained overall accuracy was 92.3%. A comparison with a contemporary map revealed spatially explicit landscape dynamics dominated by transitions from heath and wetland to agriculture and forest and from heath and dune sand to forest. However, dune sand was also characterised by more complex transitions to heath and dry grassland, which can be related to active prevention of sand drift but that can also be biased by different categorisations of dune sand between the historical and contemporary data. We conclude that automated production of machine-readable layers of land use and land cover categories from historical topographical maps offers a resource-efficient alternative to manual vectorisation and is particularly useful for spatially explicit assessments of long-term landscape dynamics. Our results also underline that an understanding of mapped categories in both historical and contemporary maps is critical to the interpretation of landscape dynamics.

Graphical abstract
The cardiac response of the goldfish Carassius auratus to environmental hypoxia: from hemodynamics to mitochondria
Authors: Filice Mariacristina , Mazza Rosa , Gattuso Alfonsina , Caferro Alessia , Napolitano Gaetana , Fasciolo Gianluca , Venditti Paola , Imbrogno Sandra , Cerra Maria Carmela
Published: January 2025

Under low O2, the heart of Carassius auratus (goldfish) shows an enhanced hemodynamics. This is observed in ex vivo cardiac preparations from animals acclimated to both normoxia and short-term (4 days) moderate hypoxia and perfused for 90 min with a hypoxic medium. Under short-term hypoxia, this is associated with a higher ventricular muscularity and an expanded mitochondrial compartment. To date, little is known about the putative influence of hypoxia on the mitochondrial contribution to cardiac energy metabolism. Similarly, it remains unexplored whether the exposure to environmental low O2 affects the cardiac response to preload increases (i.e., the Frank–Starling mechanism). We here observed, on ex vivo isolated and perfused goldfish heart, that 20 days of exposure to moderate water hypoxia are accompanied by a potentiated cardiac performance, analyzed as stroke volume, cardiac output, and stroke work. The sensitivity to preload increases significantly improved after 20 days of hypoxia, while it is similar to normoxia after 4 days of exposure. This suggested a time-dependent response. Mitochondrial O2 consumption initially decreased during short-term hypoxia but returned to normoxia-like levels after 20 days of exposure. Biomolecular analyses of ventricular extracts revealed a time-dependent regulation of key proteins involved in the mitochondrial biogenesis, including PGC1α, NRF1/2, and TFAM, as well as cytochrome c. Additionally, mitochondrial DNA content was notably increased after 20 days of hypoxia. Our data revealed that, when challenged by chronic environmental hypoxia, the goldfish heart improves its pumping behavior under both basal and loading-stimulated conditions. This is accompanied by a mitochondrial remodeling which likely supports adequate energy supply for the working myocardium.
Techno-pedagogic discourse and the online learning assetization regime
Authors: Ayers David F.
Published: January 2025

Research on academic capitalism has critiqued the commodification of knowledge, but it has not critiqued assetization. The difference between commodification and assetization is more than a technical distinction. Extracting value from assets requires a different regime of coordination than what is required for extracting value from commodities. Through an analysis of 132 texts related to the online course review process at 16 research universities in the USA, I propose and problematize an online learning assetization regime which transforms discipline-based knowledge into digital content that can be owned, controlled, and managed as a university asset. This process potentially alienates faculty from pedagogical decision making; entices, beguiles, or coerces faculty to transfer intellectual property rights to the university; and shifts faculty from structures of academic governance to the private law of contracts. I show how techno-pedagogic discourse mystifies the online learning assetization regime even as it exhorts faculty and staff to accommodate it.
Examining Faculty and Student Perceptions of Generative AI in University Courses
Authors: Kim Junghwan , Klopfer Michelle , Grohs Jacob R. , Eldardiry Hoda , Weichert James , Cox Larry A. , Pike Dale
Published: January 2025

As generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) tools such as ChatGPT become more capable and accessible, their use in educational settings is likely to grow. However, the academic community lacks a comprehensive understanding of the perceptions and attitudes of students and instructors toward these new tools. In the Fall 2023 semester, we surveyed 982 students and 76 faculty at a large public university in the United States, focusing on topics such as perceived ease of use, ethical concerns, the impact of GenAI on learning, and differences in responses by role, gender, and discipline. We found that students and faculty did not differ significantly in their attitudes toward GenAI in higher education, except regarding ease of use, hedonic motivation, habit, and interest in exploring new technologies. Students and instructors also used GenAI for coursework or teaching at similar rates, although regular use of these tools was still low across both groups. Among students, we found significant differences in attitudes between males in STEM majors and females in non-STEM majors. These findings underscore the importance of considering demographic and disciplinary diversity when developing policies and practices for integrating GenAI in educational contexts, as GenAI may influence learning outcomes differently across various groups of students. This study contributes to the broader understanding of how GenAI can be leveraged in higher education while highlighting potential areas of inequality that need to be addressed as these tools become more widely used.
Temporal Tendencies: Exploring the Impact of Chronotype Timing on Youth Depression Risk
Authors: Haraden Dustin A. , McCormick Kathleen C. , Griffith Julianne M. , Hankin Benjamin L.
Published: January 2025

Developmental changes in youth sleep preferences (chronotype) and pubertal development are consequential for youth risk for depression. Previous research has identified individual differences in chronotype in risk for psychopathology. However, little is known regarding how the timing of chronotype may confer risk in youth. This study addressed this gap by examining associations between chronotypal timing and symptoms of depression in youth. Community youth (N = 155;

$${M}_{age}$$

M

age

=12.7) completed self-report measures of chronotype, pubertal status and depression every six months for a period of one year (three assessment points). Regression analyses showed that chronotypal timing predicted change in depressive symptoms across six months (b = -0.66, p = 0.019), but not across any other timeframe. Findings suggested that youth experiencing more of a morning preference compared to same-aged peers were at increased risk for later depression across six months. Chronotypal timing continued to predict changes in symptoms of depression controlling for gender (b = -0.63, p = 0.023) and pubertal timing (b = -0.72, p = 0.012). These findings suggest that chronotypal timing is prospectively related to changes in youth symptoms of depression. Results indicate that attention to the timing of normative changes in chronotype is warranted, in addition to mean-level differences.
Lithium compromises the bioenergetic reserve of cardiomyoblasts mitochondria
Authors: Grman Marian , Balazova Maria , Horvath Anton , Polcicova Katarina , Ondacova Katarina , Stepanovsky Jakub , Sevcikova Tomaskova Zuzana
Published: January 2025

Lithium is used in the long-term treatment of bipolar disorder, exhibiting a beneficial effect on the neuronal cells. The concentration of lithium in the blood serum can vary and can easily approach a level that is related to cardiotoxic adverse effects. This is due to its narrow therapeutic index. In this study, we investigated the effect of higher than therapeutic dose of lithium. Rat cardiomyoblast cells were treated with 2 mM LiCl for 48 h, after which the mitochondrial parameters of the cells were analyzed. Lithium exposure reduced maximal respiratory capacity by diminishing reserve respiratory capacity (RRC), linked to a decrease in complex I (NADH dehydrogenase) activity and elevated superoxide radical levels. In addition, lithium treatment altered the composition of cellular membranes, including mitochondrial cardiolipin, a lipid essential for mitochondrial function. These findings suggest that impaired complex I activity, oxidative stress, and cardiolipin depletion collectively impair the ability of cells to meet high energy demands.
Variability in the impact of linear transportation infrastructures on gene flow in French wild ungulate populations
Authors: Dispan de Floran L. , Mergey M. , Galan M. , Vitte I. , Jouanillou A. , Le Barh M. , Guinard E. , Lesbarrères D. , Helder R.
Published: January 2025

Context

Linear Transportation Infrastructures (LTIs) are among the largest factors responsible for landscape fragmentation, in turn increasing population isolation. In this context, studies have mainly focused on a single species’ response to barrier elements and mitigation thereof. Yet, the implementation of conservation strategies to restore landscape connectivity may be challenging when multi-specific responses are not measured and fully considered.

Objectives

We aimed to assess the effect of two different types of LTIs, a fenced highway and a navigation canal on gene flow in three ungulate species in Northeastern France.

Methods

We genotyped 98 red deer (C. elaphus), 120 wild boars (S. scrofa) and 140 roe deer (C. capreolus) with species-specific microsatellite markers from 3 sampling sites located on either side of both LTIs considered in the study area. We assessed the continuity of gene flow using Bayesian clustering methods and a mapping approach to determine inter-individual genetic dissimilarity in relation to landscape characteristics.

Results

Our study showed different impacts of LTIs on the gene flow of species belonging a priori to the same functional group. Genetic differentiation among red deer and wild boar sampling units was observed on either side of the highway, but no such differentiation was identified for roe deer. However, no genetic structuring was associated with the presence of the canal in any species.

Conclusions

The impact of LTIs on gene flow in large species results from the structural characteristics of the infrastructure, and our study shows that mitigation measures should consider species-specific behaviors to facilitate the use of crossing structures and thus ensure gene flow across ILTs.
Random walks, Hurst exponent, and market efficiency
Authors: Pernagallo Giuseppe
Published: January 2025

Market efficiency assumes that prices in financial markets are perfectly informative and, therefore, it is not possible to design trading strategies that outperform the market. The concept of efficiency has important implications for financial stability and, consequently, for financial policies. If asset returns exhibit persistent or anti-persistent behavior, then predictability based on past returns might be possible, which would be a clear violation of the weak form of efficiency. Many studies rely on the Hurst exponent to evaluate the level of memory of financial returns, and the purpose of this paper is to show that long memory or anti-persistence of financial returns is not incompatible with the random walk model or the efficient market hypothesis (EMH). The use of the Hurst exponent to demonstrate the inefficiency of financial markets using common estimators is troublesome, especially when applied to financial returns, since values of

$$\hat{H} \ne 0.5$$

H
^

≠
0.5

are not evidence against the random walk model or the EMH. Moreover, the high variability of Hurst exponent estimates and their dependence on the chosen algorithm should motivate careful use of this tool. This study proposes a simple theoretical explanation and an extensive simulation study to show that

$$\hat{H} \ne 0.5$$

H
^

≠
0.5

for financial returns is perfectly compatible with the random walk model. As a robustness check, both the traditional rescaled range and the wavelet lifting algorithms are used. Applications to real data are also discussed to show that the empirical values of the Hurst exponent are in the range suggested by the simulations, providing evidence that over-reliance on the Hurst exponent could lead to erroneous rejection of the random walk model. Specifically, the paper presents an application to the daily returns of stock market indices (DJIA and S&P 500) over a period of more than 30 years and cryptocurrencies (Bitcoin and Ethereum) over a period of more than 5 years.
Key conservation actions for European steppes in the context of the Post-2020 Global Biodiversity Framework
Authors: Pérez-Granados Cristian , Benítez-López Ana , Díaz Mario , Gameiro João , Lenzner Bernd , Roura-Pascual Núria , Gómez-Catasús Julia , Tarjuelo Rocío , Barrero Adrián , Bolonio Luis , Bota Gerard , Brambilla Mattia , Bravo Carolina , Brotons Lluís , la Rosa Daniel Bustillo-de , Cabodevilla Xabier , Búrdalo Antonio Calvo , Carricondo Ana , Casas Fabián , Concepción Elena D. , Constán-Nava Soraya , Crispim-Mendes Tiago , Giralt David , Golivets Marina , Latombe Guillaume , Leiva Antonio , López-Iborra Germán M. , López-Poveda Gabriel , Mañosa Santi , Martín Carlos A. , Morales Manuel B. , Moreira Francisco , Mougeot Francois , Nikolov Boris , Olea Pedro P. , Onrubia Alejandro , Reverter Margarita , Revilla-Martín Natalia , Rigal Stanislas , Jiménez Gema Ruiz , Sáez-Gómez Pedro , Šálek Martin , Salgado Iván , Santangeli Andrea , Santos Carlos , Sanz-Pérez Ana , Serrano David , Silva João Paulo , Torrijo Antonio , Traba Juan , Tryjanowski Piotr , Václav Radovan , Valera Francisco , Vögeli Matthias , Zurdo Julia , Marques Ana T.
Published: January 2025

The Kunming–Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (KM–GBF) envisions a world living in harmony with nature by 2050, with 23 intermediate targets to be achieved by 2030. However, aligning international policy and national and local implementation of effective actions can be challenging. Using steppe birds, one of the most threatened vertebrate groups in Europe, as a model system, we identified 36 conservation actions for the achievement of the KM–GBF targets and we singled out—through an expert-based consensus approach—ten priority actions for immediate implementation. Three of these priority actions address at least five of the first eight KM–GBF targets, those related to the direct causes of biodiversity loss, and collectively cover all the targets when implemented concurrently. These actions include (i) effectively protecting priority areas, (ii) implementing on-the-ground habitat management actions, and (iii) improving the quality and integration of monitoring programmes. Our findings provide a blueprint for implementing effective strategies to halt biodiversity loss in steppe-like ecosystems. Our approach can be adapted to other taxonomic groups and ecosystems and has the potential to serve as a catalyst for policy-makers, prompting a transition from political commitment to tangible actions, thereby facilitating the attainment of the KM–GBF targets by 2030.