@article {pmid41043087,
year = {2025},
author = {Tran, PT and Wang, JH and Tang, C and Kiess, AP},
title = {Reply to: Revisiting Radium-223 in Oligometastatic Castration-Sensitive Prostate Cancer: RAVENS Trial Insights.},
journal = {Journal of clinical oncology : official journal of the American Society of Clinical Oncology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {JCO2501855},
doi = {10.1200/JCO-25-01855},
pmid = {41043087},
issn = {1527-7755},
}

@article {pmid41042056,
year = {2025},
author = {Hausdorf, T and Ferdinand, A and Koo-Poeggel, P and Mölle, M and Bazhenov, M and Marshall, L},
title = {Stimulating the Stimulated Cortex-Frontocortical Anodal Electric Stimulation Combined With Closed-Loop Acoustic Stimulation During Sleep Impairs Memory in Subjects With High Cognitive Ability.},
journal = {The European journal of neuroscience},
volume = {62},
number = {7},
pages = {e70266},
doi = {10.1111/ejn.70266},
pmid = {41042056},
issn = {1460-9568},
support = {MA 2053/9-1//Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft/ ; MA 2053/11-1//Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft/ ; MA 2053/12-1//Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft/ ; 01GQ1706//US-German Collaboration in Computational Neuroscience/ ; IIS-1724405//US-German Collaboration in Computational Neuroscience/ ; 2223839//National Science Foundation/ ; 1R01MH125557/NH/NIH HHS/United States ; 1R01NS109553/NH/NIH HHS/United States ; RF1NS132913/NH/NIH HHS/United States ; },
mesh = {Humans ; Adult ; Male ; *Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation/adverse effects ; Female ; Young Adult ; Adolescent ; *Acoustic Stimulation/adverse effects ; *Memory Consolidation/physiology ; *Cognition/physiology ; Electroencephalography ; *Sleep/physiology ; Sleep, Slow-Wave/physiology ; },
abstract = {This study investigates the impact of simultaneous anodal transcranial direct-current stimulation (tDCS) and closed-loop acoustic stimulation (CLAS) during slow-wave sleep on memory consolidation and neural oscillations. In this experiment, anodal tDCS was used to modulate cortical excitability, aiming to alter the brain state and investigate the resultant impact of CLAS-induced effects on sleep electroencephalography and overnight memory consolidation. Twenty participants (aged 18-30) completed two experimental nights involving either CLAS alone or tDCS combined with CLAS (AmodCLAS). Offline detected spontaneous SOs were shifted toward negative potential values by AmodCLAS, SO duration was increased, and density decreased. AmodCLAS also decreased sleep efficiency and REM sleep in the second part of the night. Compared with CLAS alone, AmodCLAS failed to influence memory consolidation across all subjects. However, memory retention of participants with higher fluid intelligence (as measured by Raven's Advanced Progressive Matrices) was significantly decreased after AmodCLAS, together with a more pronounced negative shift of SO up-state intervals, yet a weaker reduction in REM sleep. Our findings suggest that individuals with higher cognitive ability exhibit greater susceptibility to sleep-based neuromodulation while possibly possessing greater resilience against sleep perturbance. This highlights the critical role of interindividual cognitive differences in shaping responsiveness to neuromodulation techniques and underscores the need for personalized approaches during such interventions.},
}

Humans
Adult
Male
*Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation/adverse effects
Female
Young Adult
Adolescent
*Acoustic Stimulation/adverse effects
*Memory Consolidation/physiology
*Cognition/physiology
Electroencephalography
*Sleep/physiology
Sleep, Slow-Wave/physiology

@article {pmid41041244,
year = {2025},
author = {Chaudhuri, T and Pandit, A and Kumari, P and Faisal, A and Ghosh, J and Roy Choudhury, S and Koner, S},
title = {The double burden of malnutrition and its impact on academic achievement and cognitive function in students of rural India.},
journal = {Journal of family medicine and primary care},
volume = {14},
number = {8},
pages = {3315-3321},
pmid = {41041244},
issn = {2249-4863},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The study explores the interrelationship between nutritional status, cognitive function (IQ), and academic performance in rural primary school children, recognizing these as critical and interconnected health parameters.

OBJECTIVES: To investigate the relationship among nutritional condition, cognitive ability, and academic outcomes in children aged 6-8 years in rural Jharkhand, India.

METHODS: A total of 560 children (280 boys and 280 girls), aged between 6 and 8 years, from four rural primary schools in Jharkhand, were included in the study. Nutritional condition was assessed using Body Mass Index (BMI), and cognitive function was evaluated using the Raven Progressive Matrices test.

RESULTS: A high rate of malnutrition was observed: 28.03% of children were undernourished and 28.75% were severely malnourished, with a higher prevalence among boys. Additionally, 4.47% of the children were found to be overweight or obese, indicating a growing double burden of malnutrition in rural areas. A positive association was found between BMI and IQ score (r = 0.41, P ≤ 0.01), indicating that better nutritional status is linked with improved cognitive function. Alarmingly, 50.71% of the children were categorized as "intelligently impaired" based on IQ scores, with only 3.22% scoring in the above-average range. Logistic regression revealed strong associations between academic performance and IQ categories, emphasizing the key role of cognitive function in educational outcomes.

CONCLUSION: The study highlights the intricate relationship between malnutrition, cognitive development, and academic performance. It underscores the urgent need for integrated interventions targeting both under- and over-nutrition, while prioritizing cognitive enhancement and educational support in resource-constrained rural settings.},
}

@article {pmid41040262,
year = {2025},
author = {Adame Gonzalez, W and Moqadam, R and Zeighami, Y and Dadar, M},
title = {RAVEN: Robust, generalizable, multi-resolution structural MRI upsampling using Autoencoders.},
journal = {bioRxiv : the preprint server for biology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1101/2025.09.22.677945},
pmid = {41040262},
issn = {2692-8205},
abstract = {Due to their high inter-tissue contrast, Magnetic resonance images (MRIs) can reflect neuroanatomical changes related to healthy aging and pathological processes. However, standard brain MRI acquisition resolutions hinder the ability to measure the more subtle changes that occur in early disease stages. Increasing the resolution during acquisition poses multiple challenges, including increased noise, higher acquisition times and cost, and discomfort of the scanned individual. In this work, we propose a robust, generalizable single-image super-resolution network for brain MRIs named Resolution Augmentation with Variational auto-Encoder Networks (RAVEN) with generative adversarial networks (GANs). We show RAVEN is capable of upsampling in-vivo and ex-vivo MRIs of diverse modalities (e.g. T1-weighted, T2-weighted, and T2*) and varying field strengths (3T to 7T) to target voxel sizes as small as 0.5mm isotropic using arbitrary upsampling factors. RAVEN achieved state-of-the-art performance against deep learning and non-deep learning methods, best preserving true anatomical information. We have also made RAVEN open access, with the source code as well as training and evaluation scripts available and ready to use at: https://github.com/waadgo/raven .},
}

@article {pmid41038985,
year = {2025},
author = {Skoracki, M and Haarder, S and Unsoeld, M and Nielsen, ÓK and Hromada, M and Sikora, B},
title = {Syringophilid mites parasitising the crows and the competitive exclusion principle.},
journal = {Scientific reports},
volume = {15},
number = {1},
pages = {34436},
pmid = {41038985},
issn = {2045-2322},
support = {UAM ID-UB 094/07/POB1/0013//Excellence Initiative Program "Mobility" of the UAM Research University/ ; UAM UD-UB 094/07/POB1/0012//Excellence Initiative Program "Mobility" of the UAM Research University/ ; APVV-22-0440//Slovak Research and Development Agency/ ; },
mesh = {Animals ; *Mites/physiology/classification ; *Crows/parasitology ; Phylogeny ; *Host-Parasite Interactions ; *Mite Infestations/parasitology/veterinary ; Host Specificity ; *Bird Diseases/parasitology ; },
abstract = {Quill mites of the family Syringophilidae (Acariformes: Prostigmata) are one of the most species-rich groups of mite ectoparasites permanently associated with birds, characterised by high host specificity and strict microhabitat preferences. In this study, we examined 179 individuals representing 19 species of the genus Corvus (Passeriformes: Corvidae) to investigate the prevalence and host associations of syringophilid mites. Quill mites were detected in 31 hosts from 11 host species, with infestations restricted exclusively to the wing coverts and involving two species: Syringophiloidus glandarii and Corvisyringophilus krummi. These mites exhibited mutually exclusive host distributions, with the vast majority of corvid species infested by only one of the two mite species. The phylogenetic distribution of these mites across Corvus hosts, combined with their shared microhabitat and lack of co-occurrence, strongly supports historical interspecific competition and subsequent host specialisation, in accordance with the Competitive Exclusion Principle. S. glandarii appears to be the dominant lineage, infecting nine Corvus, while C. krummi was restricted to only three hosts. Only in Corvus albicollis were both mite species detected, though a limited sample size precludes definitive conclusions about stable co-occurrence. These findings highlight how ecological interactions, such as competition, can shape parasite distributions and drive specialisation, even among permanent and highly host-specific parasites. They provide insights into the factors governing host specificity and have implications for understanding ecological and evolutionary patterns in host-parasite systems.},
}

Animals
*Mites/physiology/classification
*Crows/parasitology
Phylogeny
*Host-Parasite Interactions
*Mite Infestations/parasitology/veterinary
Host Specificity
*Bird Diseases/parasitology

@article {pmid41038887,
year = {2025},
author = {Salgado-López, P and Llauradó-Calero, E and García-Vilana, S and Sánchez-Molina, D and Brun, A and Font-I-Furnols, M and Gasa, J and Solà-Oriol, D},
title = {Evaluation of organ and skeletal physiological characteristics for improved classification of growth-restricted newborn piglets.},
journal = {Scientific reports},
volume = {15},
number = {1},
pages = {34328},
pmid = {41038887},
issn = {2045-2322},
support = {2023 FI-2 00080//Departament de Recerca i Universitats, Generalitat de Catalunya/ ; 2023 INV-2 00076//NextGenerationEU/ ; PID2019-103915GB-100//Ministerio de Ciencia, Innovación y Universidades, Gobierno de España/ ; PID2019-103915GB-100//Ministerio de Ciencia, Innovación y Universidades, Gobierno de España/ ; },
mesh = {Animals ; Swine ; *Fetal Growth Retardation/physiopathology/veterinary ; Animals, Newborn ; Tibia/diagnostic imaging ; Female ; Birth Weight ; Organ Size ; Brain/growth & development ; *Bone and Bones/physiology ; Bone Density ; Tomography, X-Ray Computed ; },
abstract = {The identification of potentially slow-growing pigs at birth, using both external and internal traits, would enable the early implementation of targeted management and feeding strategies to optimize herd management and improve production efficiency. Twenty-four piglets from six hyperprolific sows were classified into four categories based on birth body weight (BW), body mass index (BMI), and crow-to-rump length (CRL): severe intrauterine growth restriction (sIUGR), low birth weight (LBW), moderate birth weight (MBW), and high birth weight (HBW). Organ weights, computed tomography (CT) measurements, bending tests to assess tibial mechanical and geometric properties, and tibial mineral content analysis were performed to evaluate organ and skeletal physiological characteristics. Severe IUGR piglets exhibited higher brain-to-organ ratios and relative brain weights, which decreased linearly across categories. High birth BW piglets demonstrated 70% more bone volume and a greater proportion of high-density bones than sIUGR piglets, along with the largest cortical area and thickness in tibia measurements. On the other hand, sIUGR showed higher maximum stress, stiffness values, and manganese content in their tibiae compared to other categories. These findings reveal that piglets with varying degrees of IUGR prioritize brain development, exhibit asymmetrical organ growth, and experience impaired ossification and longitudinal bone growth. This study underscores the need to incorporate complementary birth indicators to refine the classification of newborn piglets with different degrees of restriction.},
}

Animals
Swine
*Fetal Growth Retardation/physiopathology/veterinary
Animals, Newborn
Tibia/diagnostic imaging
Female
Birth Weight
Organ Size
Brain/growth & development
*Bone and Bones/physiology
Bone Density
Tomography, X-Ray Computed

@article {pmid41031972,
year = {2025},
author = {Dierick, F and Buisseret, F and Hoho, T and Fiévet, A and Luta, AM},
title = {Solving Raven's Matrices While Walking on a Treadmill: Insights into Cognitive-Motor Interference Patterns in Dual-Task.},
journal = {Journal of motor behavior},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {1-10},
doi = {10.1080/00222895.2025.2566195},
pmid = {41031972},
issn = {1940-1027},
abstract = {This study investigates cognitive-motor interference by combining Raven's Progressive Matrices Test (RPMT) with treadmill walking. Two groups of healthy adults-20 young adults (born after 1995) familiar with treadmill walking and 18 older adults (born before 1980) without treadmill experience-completed both single-task and dual-task conditions. Cognitive performance (RPMT score) and gait metrics (stride interval variability and sample entropy) were recorded. Results revealed diverse interference patterns, with a predominance of gait-prioritization strategies under dual-task conditions. Significant differences between groups were found: younger adults showed greater cognitive performance decline, while older adults increased stride interval under dual-task conditions. A negative correlation between gait variability and complexity suggested adaptive motor strategies in some participants. This dual-task paradigm offers a standardized framework to explore both individual and group variability in multitasking performance. These insights may inform the design of safer environments and interventions targeting populations with different cognitive-motor profiles.},
}

@article {pmid41030150,
year = {2025},
author = {Tyler, C and Koganti, L and Liu, J and Ngo, A and Wong, TW and Zeng, XT and Seyfarth, EA and Zottoli, SJ},
title = {Supramedullary Neurons in Teleost Fishes: Distribution and Putative Functions.},
journal = {Journal of morphology},
volume = {286},
number = {10},
pages = {e70090},
doi = {10.1002/jmor.70090},
pmid = {41030150},
issn = {1097-4687},
support = {//Williams College and the Marine Biological Laboratory provided financial support for part of this study./ ; },
mesh = {Animals ; *Neurons/cytology/physiology ; *Fishes/anatomy & histology/physiology ; *Spinal Cord/cytology ; *Medulla Oblongata/cytology/physiology ; },
abstract = {Supramedullary neurons (SMNs) were described almost 150 years ago as large, unipolar cells whose somata are located on the dorsal aspect of the medulla oblongata and spinal cord in adults of teleost fishes. SMNs are either aligned in a single, median longitudinal row, generally extending over the rostral third of the spinal cord, or clustered over the medulla oblongata and rostral spinal cord. We add to the list of species that have SMNs and provide the first description of a novel distribution of SMNs along most of the spinal cord in the oyster toadfish (Opsanus tau) and sea raven (Hemitripterus americanus). The number of SMNs ranges from 27 in the Atlantic butterfish (Peprilus triacanthus) to 3712 in the oyster toadfish (Opsanus tau), and soma diameter ranges from an average of 23 µm in the Atlantic butterfish to 232 µm in the Southern pufferfish (Sphoeroides nephelus). SMNs could not be identified in 11 species, including seven freshwater fishes. We discuss factors that may affect the presence/absence of SMNs including age, length of time in captivity, and habitat salinity. Proposed functions of SMNs include neurosecretion and mucous secretion, and we suggest approaches that may aid in the discovery of the role of these fascinating neurons.},
}

Animals
*Neurons/cytology/physiology
*Fishes/anatomy & histology/physiology
*Spinal Cord/cytology
*Medulla Oblongata/cytology/physiology

@article {pmid41030123,
year = {2025},
author = {Shrestha, V},
title = {Historical Racial Oppression and Healthcare Access: Unveiling Disparities Post-ACA in the American South.},
journal = {Health economics},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1002/hec.70042},
pmid = {41030123},
issn = {1099-1050},
abstract = {This study investigates geographical disparities in the implementation and effectiveness of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) by linking them to the historical legacy of racial oppression in the American South. Using a cross-border regression discontinuity design that leverages variations in racial oppression intensity, we find that bordering counties in states with less oppressive regime experienced significantly greater benefits from the ACA compared to neighboring counties in more oppressive states. This divergence in insurance outcomes, which did not exist before the ACA, underscores the influence of historical racial regimes on contemporary policy efficacy. Furthermore, we demonstrate that political preferences from the Jim Crow era are correlated with the observed variations in ACA effectiveness. Our findings suggest that the racialization of the ACA is deeply rooted in the historical context of racial oppression in the American South.},
}

@article {pmid41024633,
year = {2025},
author = {Patel, SC and Kamath, RN and Murthy, TSN and Subash, K and Avanija, J and Sangeetha, M},
title = {Enhancing Microscopic Image Quality With DiffusionFormer and Crow Search Optimization.},
journal = {Microscopy research and technique},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1002/jemt.70072},
pmid = {41024633},
issn = {1097-0029},
abstract = {Medical Image plays a vital role in diagnosis, but noise in patient scans severely affects the accuracy and quality of images. Denoising methods are important to increase the clarity of these images, particularly in low-resource settings where current diagnostic roles are inaccessible. Pneumonia is a widespread disease that presents significant diagnostic challenges due to the high similarity between its various types and the lack of medical images for emerging variants. This study introduces a novel Diffusion with swin transformer-based Optimized Crow Search algorithm to increase the image's quality and reliability. This technique utilizes four datasets such as brain tumor MRI dataset, chest X-ray image, chest CT-scan image, and BUSI. The preprocessing steps involve conversion to grayscale, resizing, and normalization to improve image quality in medical image (MI) datasets. Gaussian noise is introduced to further enhance image quality. The method incorporates a diffusion process, swin transformer networks, and optimized crow search algorithm to improve the denoising of medical images. The diffusion process reduces noise by iteratively refining images while swin transformer captures complex image features that help differentiate between noise and essential diagnostic information. The crow search optimization algorithm fine-tunes the hyperparameters, which minimizes the fitness function for optimal denoising performance. The method is tested across four datasets, indicating its optimal effectiveness against other techniques. The proposed method achieves a peak signal-to-noise ratio of 38.47 dB, a structural similarity index measure of 98.14%, a mean squared error of 0.55, and a feature similarity index measure of 0.980, which outperforms existing techniques. These outcomes reflect that the proposed approach effectively enhances the quality of images, resulting in precise and dependable diagnoses.},
}

@article {pmid41023067,
year = {2025},
author = {Prasad, SB and Parker, NG and Baggaley, AW},
title = {Crow instability of vortex lines in dipolar superfluids.},
journal = {Scientific reports},
volume = {15},
number = {1},
pages = {33364},
pmid = {41023067},
issn = {2045-2322},
support = {RPG-2021-108//Leverhulme Trust/ ; RPG-2021-108//Leverhulme Trust/ ; RPG-2021-108//Leverhulme Trust/ ; EP/T01573X/1//Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council/ ; },
abstract = {In classical inviscid fluids, antiparallel vortices perturbed by Kelvin waves exhibit the Crow instability, where the mutual interaction of the Kelvin modes renders them dynamically unstable. This results in the approach and reconnection of the vortices, leading to a cascaded decay into ever-smaller vortex loops. Through mean-field simulations we study the Crow instability of quantum vortex lines in a superfluid whose atoms are subject to the anisotropic, long-ranged dipole-dipole interaction. We observe that the direction of dipole polarization plays a crucial role in determining the dynamically favored Kelvin modes. The subsequent rate of the instability is linked to the mediation of the vortex curvature by the effective dipole-dipole interaction between the vortices themselves. The vortex curvature is strongly suppressed and modes of lower wavenumber are preferred when the dipole polarization is parallel to the vortices, whereas the curvature is maximized for polarizations along the vortices' separation axis. For polarizations along the binormal axis, modes of higher wavenumber are favorable but the instability rate is considerably inhibited. This paves the way to a deeper understanding of vortex reconnections, vortex loop cascades and turbulence in dipolar superfluids.},
}

@article {pmid41017246,
year = {2025},
author = {Nelson, JM and Jeffrey, A and Schnitker, SA},
title = {Mino-Bimaadiziwin and the Pursuit of Harmony.},
journal = {Personality and social psychology review : an official journal of the Society for Personality and Social Psychology, Inc},
volume = {29},
number = {4},
pages = {421-432},
doi = {10.1177/10888683251345043},
pmid = {41017246},
issn = {1532-7957},
mesh = {Humans ; *Indians, North American/psychology ; },
abstract = {Academic AbstractTheories of well-being are heavily influenced by Western viewpoints; even when Majority World perspectives are incorporated, psychologists often fail to consider the rich cultural knowledge of the Indigenous peoples of North America. We propose that personality and social psychologists engage in "deep learning" (without appropriation or colonization) of a Native American Majority World perspective on well-being. We present a description of the "storywork" surrounding the concept of Mino-Bimaadiziwin, translated as "the good life" or "living in a good way," emerging for the Anishinaabeg, who are Indigenous peoples consisting of the Ojibwe (Chippewa), Potawatomi, Algonquin, Saulteaux, Nipissing, and Mississauga First Nations. We discuss the Gichi-dibaakonigewinan, The Seven Grandfather Teachings, that emerge to promote well-being, which is inherently relational and concerns harmony in contrast to happiness. Gichi-dibaakonigewinan are composed of seven virtues-Truth, Humility, Respect, Love, Bravery, Integrity, and Wisdom-whose consideration reveals pathways to well-being possible in Majority World Contexts that psychologists should consider.Public AbstractWhat is the good life, or living in a good way? Western psychology, rooted in Western philosophy, has sought to study this very question. However, researchers have not considered the perspective of the Majority World. In this paper, we present how the Anishinaabeg, who are Indigenous peoples consisting of the Ojibwe (Chippewa), Potawatomi, Algonquin, Saulteaux, Nipissing, and Mississauga First Nations, think about the good life, or Mino-Bimaadiziwin. Mino-Bimaadiziwin is characterized by the pursuit of harmony in contrast to happiness. We discuss the Gichi-dibaakonigewinan, The Seven Grandfather Teachings, that promote well-being. These Seven Grandfather Teachings are composed of seven virtues, each typified by an animal-the turtle for Truth, wolf for Humility, buffalo for Respect, eagle for Love, Bear for Courage, Raven for Integrity, and Beaver for Wisdom-whose consideration reveals pathways to well-being possible in Majority World Contexts psychologists should consider.},
}

Humans
*Indians, North American/psychology

@article {pmid41011815,
year = {2025},
author = {Blanco, G and Garijo-Toledo, MM and González Del Barrio, JL and Frías, Ó and Montoya Ayala, R and Palacios-Martínez, I},
title = {Sociability Linked to Reproductive Status Affects Intestinal Parasite Infections in the Red-Billed Chough.},
journal = {Pathogens (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {14},
number = {9},
pages = {},
pmid = {41011815},
issn = {2076-0817},
mesh = {Animals ; *Intestinal Diseases, Parasitic/parasitology/veterinary/epidemiology ; Feces/parasitology ; Spain/epidemiology ; *Social Behavior ; Reproduction ; *Bird Diseases/parasitology/epidemiology ; Birds/parasitology ; Isospora/isolation & purification ; Female ; Male ; Helminths/isolation & purification ; },
abstract = {Social behaviour plays a crucial role in the dynamics of parasitic infections in wild bird populations. The red-billed chough (Pyrrhocorax pyrrhocorax), a corvid undergoing notable population declines, shows contrasting social structures linked to reproductive status: non-breeding individuals aggregate in communal roosts during winter, whereas breeding pairs often maintain territorial pair-bonds and roost at nesting sites. This study tested whether differences in sociality (communal roosting vs. territorial pairs) affect intestinal parasite infections. Fresh faecal samples were collected during winter in central Spain and analysed using flotation and McMaster techniques to detect and quantify coccidian oocysts and helminth eggs. The results revealed a relatively high positive rate of Isospora (36.2%, n = 116) and a low positive rate of helminths (9.5%, n = 116) among communally roosting non-breeders, while no parasites were detected in samples from territorial pairs. One communal roost in the Southern Plateau showed higher coccidian positive rate, possibly influenced by structural features that facilitate faecal contact. Although sample size for pairs was limited, the absence of parasites in this group suggests reduced infection risk, likely reflecting superior condition and immune defences rather than differences in exposure alone. These findings highlight the value of non-invasive parasite monitoring as an early-warning tool in wildlife health assessments and stress the importance of considering social behaviour and environmental heterogeneity into conservation strategies for threatened species.},
}

Animals
*Intestinal Diseases, Parasitic/parasitology/veterinary/epidemiology
Feces/parasitology
Spain/epidemiology
*Social Behavior
Reproduction
*Bird Diseases/parasitology/epidemiology
Birds/parasitology
Isospora/isolation & purification
Female
Male
Helminths/isolation & purification

@article {pmid41003427,
year = {2025},
author = {Verma, AK and Kumar, M and Murugkar, HV and Nagarajan, S and Tosh, C and Namdeo, P and Singh, R and Mishra, S and Dhanapal, S and Pathak, A and Singh, VP and Sanyal, A},
title = {Evaluation of In-Contact Transmission Potential of H5N1 Avian Influenza Virus in House Crows (Corvus splendens).},
journal = {Avian diseases},
volume = {69},
number = {3},
pages = {237-242},
doi = {10.1637/aviandiseases-D-24-00085},
pmid = {41003427},
issn = {1938-4351},
mesh = {Animals ; *Crows ; *Influenza A Virus, H5N1 Subtype/physiology/isolation & purification ; *Influenza in Birds/transmission/virology ; Virus Shedding ; },
abstract = {We evaluated the infection and transmission potential of the highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 virus from infected crows (Corvus splendens) to healthy in-contact crows. Six crows were inoculated with 10[6] EID50 of H5N1 virus (A/crow/India/01CA249/2021), and 24 hr later six in-contact crows were introduced with them. All the birds were observed for signs of illness, and swabs were collected up to 14 days postinfection (dpi). One of the infected birds showed dullness, ruffled feathers, shivering, and reluctance to move at 7 dpi, while the other five infected crows showed no significant clinical signs except ruffled feathers and some signs of mental confusion. All the in-contact crows remained asymptomatic throughout the experiment. Virus could be isolated in swabs of infected birds from 1 to 7 dpi, and viral quantification revealed viral shedding up to 8 dpi. Although virus was not isolated from the swabs collected from in-contact birds, low numbers of viral RNA copies were detected in some samples. Virus was isolated from the brain and trachea of most of the infected birds along with other tissues. Virus was also isolated from different tissues collected from three of the in-contact birds, albeit with low numbers of viral copies. All six infected and five in-contact crows were found to be seroconverted against H5N1 virus when analyzed on 14 dpi. These findings suggest that the H5N1 virus was transmitted to in-contact birds, but the infectious doses were low, resulting in only a limited infection. Our study highlights that H5N1 viruses may be transmitted by direct contact within the house crow population, a feature that might play an important role in the epidemiology of avian influenza.},
}

Animals
*Crows
*Influenza A Virus, H5N1 Subtype/physiology/isolation & purification
*Influenza in Birds/transmission/virology
Virus Shedding

@article {pmid41002826,
year = {2025},
author = {Li, Y and Zhi, J and Wang, X and Shi, B},
title = {Multi-Strategy Improved Red-Billed Blue Magpie Optimization Algorithm and Its Applications.},
journal = {Biomimetics (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {10},
number = {9},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/biomimetics10090592},
pmid = {41002826},
issn = {2313-7673},
support = {52278171//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; },
abstract = {To address the issues of low convergence accuracy, poor population diversity, and susceptibility to local optima in the Red-billed Blue Magpie Optimization Algorithm (RBMO), this study proposes a multi-strategy improved Red-billed Blue Magpie Optimization Algorithm (SWRBMO). First, an adaptive T-distribution-based sinh-cosh search strategy is used to enhance global exploration and speed up convergence. Second, a neighborhood-guided reinforcement strategy helps the algorithm avoid local optima. Third, a crossover strategy is also introduced to improve convergence accuracy. SWRBMO is evaluated on 15 benchmark functions selected from the CEC2005 test suite, with ablation studies on 12 of them, and further validated on the CEC2019 and CEC2021 test suites. Across all test sets, its convergence behavior and statistical significance are analyzed using the Wilcoxon rank-sum test. Comparative experiments on CEC2019 and CEC2021 demonstrate that SWRBMO achieves faster convergence and higher accuracy than RBMO and other competitive algorithms. Finally, four engineering design problems further confirm its practicality, where SWRBMO outperforms other methods by up to 99%, 38.4%, 2.4%, and nearly 100% in the respective cases, highlighting its strong potential for real-world engineering applications.},
}

@article {pmid41002791,
year = {2025},
author = {Ye, M and Wang, X and Guo, Z and Hu, B and Wang, L},
title = {A Multi-Strategy Improved Red-Billed Blue Magpie Optimizer for Global Optimization.},
journal = {Biomimetics (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {10},
number = {9},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/biomimetics10090557},
pmid = {41002791},
issn = {2313-7673},
abstract = {To enhance the convergence efficiency and solution precision of the Red-billed Blue Magpie Optimizer (RBMO), this study proposes a Multi-Strategy Enhanced Red-billed Blue Magpie Optimizer (MRBMO). The principal methodological innovations encompass three aspects: (1) Development of a novel dynamic boundary constraint handling mechanism that strengthens algorithmic exploration capabilities through adaptive regression strategy adjustment for boundary-transgressing particles; (2) Incorporation of an elite guidance strategy during the predation phase, establishing a guided search framework that integrates historical individual optimal information while employing a Lévy Flight strategy to modulate search step sizes, thereby achieving effective balance between global exploration and local exploitation capabilities; (3) Comprehensive experimental evaluations conducted on the CEC2017 and CEC2022 benchmark test suites demonstrate that MRBMO significantly outperforms classical enhanced algorithms and exhibits competitive performance against state-of-the-art optimizers across 41 standardized test functions. The practical efficacy of the algorithm is further validated through successful applications to four classical engineering design problems, confirming its robust problem-solving capabilities.},
}

@article {pmid40995067,
year = {2025},
author = {Lobo, E and Mukherjee, D and Choudhury, PK and Babu, GR and Srinivas, PN and van Schayck, OCP},
title = {Home-learning environment and cognitive and academic outcomes among children aged 4-8 years: A cross-sectional study from South India.},
journal = {Dialogues in health},
volume = {7},
number = {},
pages = {100238},
pmid = {40995067},
issn = {2772-6533},
abstract = {PURPOSE: Home-learning environment is critical for cognitive and academic outcomes; yet its impact during the 4-8 years' period remains underexplored, especially in the Global South. This study examines the relationship between the home-learning environment and children's fluid intelligence and early language numeracy outcomes in urban poor households in Bangalore, South India.

METHODS: We analysed data from 940 mother-child dyads from the MAASTHI birth cohort when children were 4-8-years old. The Family Care Indicators (FCI) tool assessed the home-learning environment, Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices (RCPM) measured children's fluid-intelligence, and the preschool Annual Status of Education Report (ASER) tool measured literacy-numeracy skills. Multilevel linear regression models, adjusted for household, maternal, and child factors, were used to examine the associations.

RESULTS: Higher levels of parental education, maternal Intelligence Quotient, and lower maternal depressive symptoms were significantly associated with better cognitive and early language outcomes. A stimulating home-learning environment characterized by the availability of ≥6 age-appropriate books, higher levels of caregiver engagement, and higher overall home environment scores (FCI-Total) was linked to better non-verbal fluid intelligence and early language scores during 4-8 years of age. However, these factors were not significantly associated with numeracy.

CONCLUSION: This study underscores the sustained benefits of a stimulating home-learning environment in urban poor settings on children's cognitive and academic outcomes between 4 and 8 years of age. Our results reinforce the need for interventions that promote caregiver engagement and access to a variety of books and toys to optimize child outcomes in marginalized settings.},
}

@article {pmid40991191,
year = {2025},
author = {Anoch, B and Parthiban, L},
title = {Detection and classification of medical images using deep learning for chronic kidney disease.},
journal = {International urology and nephrology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {40991191},
issn = {1573-2584},
abstract = {Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is an advancing disease which significantly impacts global healthcare, requiring early detection and prompt treatment is required to prevent its advancement to end-stage renal disease. Conventional diagnostic methods tend to be invasive, lengthy, and costly, creating a demand for automated, precise, and efficient solutions. This study proposes a novel technique for identifying and classifying CKD from medical images by utilizing a Convolutional Neural Network based Crow Search (CNN based CS) algorithm. The method employs sophisticated pre-processing techniques, including Z-score standardization, min-max normalization and robust scaling to improve the input data's quality. Selection of features is carried out using the chi-square test, and the Crow Search Algorithm (CSA) further optimizes the feature set for the improvement of accuracy classification and effectivess. The CNN architecture is employed to capture complex patterns using deep learning methods to accurately classify CKD in medical pictures. The model optimized and examined using an open access Kidney CT Scan data set. It achieved 99.05% accuracy, 99.03% Area under the Receiver Operating Characteristic Curve (AUC-ROC), and 99.01% Area under the precision-recall curve (PR-AUC), along with high precision (99.04%), recall (99.02%), and F1-score (99.00%). The results show that the CNN-based CS method delivers high accuracy and improved diagnostic precision related to conventional machine learning techniques. By incorporating CSA for feature optimization, the approach minimizes redundancy and improves model interpretability. This makes it a promising tool for automated CKD diagnosis, contributing to the development of AI-driven medical diagnostics and providing a scalable solution for early detection and management of CKD.},
}

@article {pmid40991092,
year = {2025},
author = {Blanchard, MD and Aidman, E and Stankov, L and Kleitman, S},
title = {A recipe for dyadic collective intelligence for well-structured tasks: mix equal parts cognitive ability and confidence plus a pinch of social sensitivity.},
journal = {Cognitive research: principles and implications},
volume = {10},
number = {1},
pages = {63},
pmid = {40991092},
issn = {2365-7464},
support = {ID8052//Defence Science and Technology Group/ ; ID7276//Defence Science and Technology Group/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; Female ; Male ; *Intelligence/physiology ; Young Adult ; Adult ; *Metacognition/physiology ; Adolescent ; *Group Processes ; *Personality/physiology ; },
abstract = {A collective intelligence factor (CI) was introduced by prior research to characterise the cognitive ability of groups. Surprisingly, individual intelligence did not predict CI. Instead, it correlated with individual social sensitivity, the equality of conversational turn-taking, and the proportion of females in a group. However, these findings may depend on the type of tasks completed by groups. Our study re-examined these relationships by (1) testing the robustness of the CI factor in dyads using well-structured tasks guided by the Cattell-Horn-Carroll (CHC) model of intelligence; (2) exploring the relationship between dyadic CI and metacognitive confidence, which is known to influence group processes and outcomes; and (3) identifying the psychological characteristics of distinct dyad types using latent profile analysis. We measured CI in 105 undergraduate dyads using three group tasks aligned with the broad abilities of the CHC model. Individual intelligence was assessed using Raven's Advanced Progressive Matrices. We also measured social sensitivity, proportion of females, equality of turn-taking, working memory, and personality. Results indicated that individual intelligence and confidence were the strongest predictors of dyadic CI for well-structured tasks, contrasting with previous findings emphasising social factors. While we replicated the relationship with social sensitivity, we did not replicate the findings for equality of turn-taking or gender composition. Latent profile analysis identified three psychological profiles: dyads performing consistently high individually and collectively, those performing consistently low, and those performing better collectively than individually. Our "smarter" dyads consisted of intelligent and confident individuals with higher social sensitivity. These findings suggest that, in dyads performing well-structured tasks, individual cognitive abilities and confidence play significant roles in CI. This challenges the emphasis on social factors and underscores the importance of task selection.},
}

Humans
Female
Male
*Intelligence/physiology
Young Adult
Adult
*Metacognition/physiology
Adolescent
*Group Processes
*Personality/physiology

@article {pmid40989563,
year = {2025},
author = {Nagafuchi, T and Bussaka, Y and Ikegami, M and Tsuchiya, K and Tokuda, M},
title = {Population Declines of the Oriental Magpie Pica serica (Corvidae) in the Saga Plain, Japan: Relationships With Land Use Patterns, Nesting Sites, and Breeding Success.},
journal = {Ecology and evolution},
volume = {15},
number = {9},
pages = {e72193},
pmid = {40989563},
issn = {2045-7758},
abstract = {Urban areas are hotspots of biological invasions where land use and other factors are associated with the success of non-native species. Non-native species alter their habits during the process of adapting to new environments, making them important subjects for studying organismal environmental adaptation. The Oriental Magpie Pica serica was introduced and established a substantial population in the Saga Plain, Japan, from the Korean Peninsula, probably by the early 17th century. As an adaptation to urbanization, this species has gradually begun to prefer to nest on utility poles rather than trees since around the late 1970s, but has declined its population since the 1990s. In this study, we hypothesized that the recent magpie decline is related to the changes in land use patterns and that magpie density affects its breeding success. We investigated the nesting density of magpies in the Saga Plain and compared the density with previous surveys. In addition, we surveyed the breeding success in areas with low and high magpie densities. As a result, the magpie densities rapidly decreased from 2008 to 2019, whereas nesting rates on artificial structures increased significantly. In our analysis, building and farmland areas themselves had a positive effect on magpie density. Over the recent decade, the building area has increased, whereas the farmland has decreased in our census sites. Then the negative impacts of the farmland reduction were considered larger than the positive impacts of the increase in building areas. These suggest that urban developments critically affect the magpie decline. Breeding success rates were significantly higher in areas with high magpie density than in low-density areas. In low-density areas, success rates from egg hatch to fledging are significantly lower than in high-density areas, suggesting that low-density trends of magpies in most areas facilitate breeding failure and further negative impacts on the populations.},
}

@article {pmid40989466,
year = {2025},
author = {Li, L and Yue, T and Wu, H and Zhao, Y and Liu, Q and Zhang, H and Xu, W},
title = {Effective classification for neonatal brain injury using EEG feature selection based on elastic net regression and improved crow search algorithm.},
journal = {PeerJ. Computer science},
volume = {11},
number = {},
pages = {e3000},
pmid = {40989466},
issn = {2376-5992},
abstract = {Neonatal brain injury carries the risk of neurological sequelae such as epileptic seizures, cerebral palsy, intellectual disability, and even death. Classification methods based on electroencephalography (EEG) signals and machine learning algorithms are crucial for assessing neonatal brain injury. However, classification methods that utilise all features from the original EEG signals may result in lengthy training and classification times, thereby reducing the performance of the classification system. This article presents a novel classification system with a proposed feature selection method for assessing neonatal brain injury, in which the feature selection method is combined using elastic net (EN) regression and an improved crow search algorithm (ICSA), named EN-ICSA. In the EN-ICSA method, EN regression is used to conduct the pre-screening of features. The ICSA is utilised to select the essential figures further by introducing the dynamic perception probability for deciding whether to search locally or globally, a novel neighbor-following strategy for the local search and a global search strategy according to the crow's search experience, resulting in accelerating the search efficiency while effectively avoiding falling into local optima. Experimental results demonstrate that the proposed system, based on support vector machine (SVM) with the EN-ICSA feature selection method, performs exceptionally well compared to other traditional machine learning and feature selection methods, achieving an accuracy of 91.94%, precision of 92.32%, recall of 89.85%, and F1-score of 90.82%.},
}

@article {pmid40980749,
year = {2025},
author = {Kritsotakis, G and Morfidi, E},
title = {Reading Comprehension Challenges in Autism Spectrum Disorder: Linguistic Factors and Figurative Language Proficiency.},
journal = {Autism & developmental language impairments},
volume = {10},
number = {},
pages = {23969415251371544},
pmid = {40980749},
issn = {2396-9415},
abstract = {BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) without intellectual disability often face challenges in understanding written text. However, considerable variability in this area underscores the need to examine their reading profiles and the factors influencing the development of reading comprehension (RC). This study investigates the RC of upper elementary school children with ASD compared to typically developing (TD) peers and explores the role of broader linguistic abilities in RC, with a specific focus on pragmatic competence (e.g., figurative language comprehension). Nonlinguistic factors such as age and nonverbal cognitive capacity are also considered. A secondary aim is to assess the potential heterogeneity in RC and linguistic abilities within the ASD sample.

METHODS: In total, 35 children with ASD and 35 TD controls (mean age = 10.7 years, SD = 0.97) were matched for age, gender, and nonverbal cognitive ability using Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices. Both groups completed assessments of RC, structural language skills (receptive vocabulary and morphosyntax), and figurative language competence. To evaluate variability, the ASD group was divided into two subgroups based on RC performance.

RESULTS: Participants with ASD scored significantly lower than their TD peers in RC, morphosyntactic skills, and figurative language comprehension, but no significant differences were observed in receptive vocabulary. For children with ASD, chronological age, nonverbal cognitive ability, and receptive vocabulary accounted for significant variance in RC. In contrast, RC in TD children was predicted by morphosyntactic ability and figurative competence. Furthermore, the substantial heterogeneity within the ASD group was evident, highlighting their variability across the range of examined variables.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS: The findings indicate that children with ASD as a group experience notable difficulties in text comprehension and language processing at the morphosyntactic and pragmatic levels, despite achieving receptive vocabulary and nonverbal cognitive scores comparable to those of their TD peers. The two groups appear to employ distinct strategies for deriving meaning from text. The pronounced variability in RC and linguistic abilities among ASD participants underscores the complexity of their reading and language profiles, highlighting the importance of tailored educational assessments and interventions, which are further discussed.},
}

@article {pmid40979804,
year = {2025},
author = {Blackburn, G and Ashton, BJ and Hunter, H and Ridley, AR},
title = {Response to intruder number is related to spontaneous quantity discrimination performance in a wild bird.},
journal = {Behavioral ecology : official journal of the International Society for Behavioral Ecology},
volume = {36},
number = {5},
pages = {araf093},
pmid = {40979804},
issn = {1045-2249},
abstract = {Quantity discrimination abilities are considered a valuable skill for many aspects of life, including foraging, predator avoidance, and intergroup contests. Two types of experiments are often utilized to detect such abilities in animals; cognitive tasks in which individuals must choose between two quantities of food, and playback experiments of the vocalizations of differing numbers of intruding individuals. To date, no study has investigated whether individual performance in these two types of experiments is related. We presented wild Western Australian magpies (Gymnorhina tibicen dorsalis) with both a spontaneous quantity discrimination cognitive task and a playback experiment, to investigate quantity discrimination abilities, and to explore if performance on these experiments is related. We found that magpies (1) selected the greater quantity of food in the cognitive task and (2) responded more strongly to playback of three callers compared to one caller, suggesting this species possesses quantity discrimination abilities. Individual performance on these two experiments was negatively correlated, with magpies that performed better on the cognitive task spending less time vigilant following the three-caller playback compared to magpies that performed worse. Our results highlight the importance of exploring the relationship between performance in a cognitive task and ecologically relevant behaviors, as this has the potential to offer profound insights into cognitive ecology.},
}

@article {pmid40979369,
year = {2025},
author = {Penezić, A and Uzelac, A and Breka, K and Simin, S and Ovari, K and Pantelić, I and Ćirković, V and Ćirović, D and Klun, I},
title = {Understanding Toxoplasma gondii transmission in an ecological context-the contribution of wild avian species from urban environments.},
journal = {Frontiers in veterinary science},
volume = {12},
number = {},
pages = {1634254},
pmid = {40979369},
issn = {2297-1769},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: The role of avians in the transmission chain of Toxoplasma gondii, a zoonotic coccidian parasite of the phylum Apicomplexa, is as intermediate hosts. However, the true contribution and significance of wild species in the maintenance and spread of the parasite in different ecosystems is not well understood.

METHODS: For this study, heart tissue of 224 individual birds, representing 15 common wild species, and one domestic, Gallus gallus domesticus (backyard chickens), was collected. Total nucleic acids were extracted and the presence of T. gondii gDNA was ascertained by amplification of the 529 bp repeat element.

RESULTS: The infection was detected in 24.1% of the wild birds and in 41.4% of backyard chickens. The occurrence of infection in wild species did not statistically differ by diet or among urban (22.4%), peri-urban (27.3%) and rural areas (22.7%); in contrast, a statistically significant difference was observed between peri-urban (21%) and rural (80%) backyard chickens. Among the 11 city dwelling species, wood pigeons (Columba palumbus), rooks (Corvus frugilegus) and hooded crows (Corvus cornix) were the most numerous. The frequency of infection in the two corvid species was 32.1% and 31.6% in rooks and hooded crows, respectively, and 15.6% in wood pigeons, suggesting that corvids may be good bioindicators for the parasite in cities. As the majority (84%) of the city dwelling birds originated from a single residential area, possible local natural reservoirs of T. gondii, rodents and water, were analyzed additionally. Of the 16 rodents, 56.2% were infected, while three out of four samples of river water harbored T. gondii gDNA, indicating a fairly high probability of exposure to the parasite.

DISCUSSION: Collectively, our findings show that diet may not be a primary risk for T. gondii infection. Instead, the importance of understanding prevalence in birds in an ecological context and the contribution of environmental factors in different habitats are highlighted.},
}

@article {pmid40977003,
year = {2025},
author = {Anselmi, P and de Chiusole, D and Robusto, E and Bacherini, A and Balboni, G and Brancaccio, A and Epifania, OM and Mazzoni, N and Stefanutti, L},
title = {An extension of the basic local independence model to multiple observed classifications.},
journal = {The British journal of mathematical and statistical psychology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/bmsp.70008},
pmid = {40977003},
issn = {2044-8317},
support = {//Italian Ministry of Research and University, PRIN: Progetti di Ricerca di Rilevante Interesse Nazionale - Bando 2020, Protocol n. 20209WKCLL, Project title: Computerized, adaptive, and personalized assessment of executive functions and fluid intelligence/ ; },
abstract = {The basic local independence model (BLIM) is appropriate in situations where populations do not differ in the probabilities of the knowledge states and the probabilities of careless errors and lucky guesses of the items. In some situations, this is not the case. This work introduces the multiple observed classification local independence model (MOCLIM), which extends the BLIM by allowing the above probabilities to vary across populations. In the MOCLIM, each individual is characterized by proficiency, careless and guessing classes, which are observed and determine the probabilities of knowledge states, careless errors and lucky guesses of a population. Given a particular class type (proficiency, careless, or guessing), the probabilities are the same for populations with the same class but may vary between populations with different classes. Algorithms for maximum likelihood estimation of the MOCLIM parameters are provided. The results of a simulation study suggest that the true parameter values are well recovered by the estimation algorithm and that the true model can be uncovered by comparing the goodness-of-fit of alternative models. The results of an empirical application to data from Raven-like matrices suggest that the MOCLIM effectively discriminates between situations where group differences are expected and those where they are not.},
}

@article {pmid40976675,
year = {2025},
author = {Kumar, AP and Yerram, A and Chugh, Y and Rana, S and Mudgal, D and Prinja, S and V R, M},
title = {Impact of India's publicly funded health insurance scheme on financial risk protection: a case-control study from Haryana state in India.},
journal = {BMJ open},
volume = {15},
number = {9},
pages = {e093304},
doi = {10.1136/bmjopen-2024-093304},
pmid = {40976675},
issn = {2044-6055},
mesh = {Humans ; India ; Case-Control Studies ; *Health Expenditures/statistics & numerical data ; Female ; Male ; Adult ; Middle Aged ; Young Adult ; *Financing, Personal/statistics & numerical data ; *Catastrophic Illness/economics ; Adolescent ; *Insurance, Health/economics ; *Financing, Government ; *National Health Programs/economics ; Hospitalization/economics ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVE: This paper examines the impact of India's National Publicly Funded Health Assurance Scheme, Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Aarogya Yojana (PM-JAY), in Haryana on out-of-pocket (OOP) expenses and catastrophic health expenditure (CHE).

DESIGN: We conducted a case-control study using a stratified random sampling approach.

SETTINGS: Six districts in Haryana, based on utilisation, were selected: Mewat, Faridabad, Sonipat, Ambala, Kurukshetra and Karnal.

PARTICIPANTS: A total sample size of 772 individuals, that is, 386 PM-JAY beneficiaries (cases) and non-beneficiaries (controls) each.

INTERVENTION: Data were collected using a semistructured questionnaire covering household demographics and expenditure details. The interview gathered information on hospitalisation within the past year, types of ailments, the type of empanelled facility visited, expenditure details and borrowing/selling of assets for treatment.

Mean OOP expenditure was calculated for beneficiaries and non-beneficiaries based on the type of healthcare provider. The impact of PM-JAY on OOP expenditure was analysed using a generalised linear model controlling for religion, caste, type of house, type of family, morbidity patterns, type of disease, type of health facility, hospital stay duration, average distance to the facility and travel time. CHE was defined as OOP payments ≥30% of household income. Logistic regression was used to assess the determinants of CHE.

RESULTS: We found that direct medical expenses incurred for hospitalisations were 65% lower for beneficiaries (11 131 rupees) compared with non-beneficiaries (31 675 rupees). While OOP expenditures are similar for both groups in public empanelled hospitals, non-beneficiaries incur OOP costs three times higher than PM-JAY beneficiaries in private empanelled hospitals. Factors, including the disease type, average distance from home to the facility, average travel time and type of hospital, significantly influence these expenses. Furthermore, the prevalence of CHE is significantly lower among PM-JAY beneficiaries (13.3%) compared with non-beneficiaries (45.9%), with an OR of 7.15 (95% CI: 4.74 to 10.80; p<0.01).

CONCLUSIONS: Our analysis shows the scheme's impact on decreasing OOP expenditure and CHE. To enhance the scheme's effectiveness, the study highlights the necessity of addressing non-medical expenses and expanding coverage for indirect costs, such as food, accommodation and transportation. Additionally, strengthening the supply side through improved drug availability at healthcare facilities is crucial for enhancing financial protection and access to care.},
}

Humans
India
Case-Control Studies
*Health Expenditures/statistics & numerical data
Female
Male
Adult
Middle Aged
Young Adult
*Financing, Personal/statistics & numerical data
*Catastrophic Illness/economics
Adolescent
*Insurance, Health/economics
*Financing, Government
*National Health Programs/economics
Hospitalization/economics

@article {pmid40976604,
year = {2025},
author = {Freeman, BG and Eyster, HN and Heavyside, JM and Yip, DA and Mather, MH and Waterhouse, FL},
title = {Pacific Northwest birds have shifted their abundances upslope in response to 30 years of warming temperatures.},
journal = {Ecology},
volume = {106},
number = {9},
pages = {e70193},
doi = {10.1002/ecy.70193},
pmid = {40976604},
issn = {1939-9170},
support = {2024-77385//David and Lucile Packard Foundation/ ; //Georgia Institute of Technology/ ; },
mesh = {Animals ; *Birds/physiology ; *Climate Change ; British Columbia ; *Temperature ; Time Factors ; Altitude ; *Global Warming ; Population Dynamics ; },
abstract = {Mountain species are predicted to respond to warming temperatures by moving to higher elevations that remain relatively cool. Species can track warming by shifting their entire distributions upwards (the "escalator to extinction" hypothesis) or by increasing in abundance in the upper portion of their elevational range while maintaining stable elevational limits (the "upslope lean" hypothesis). Alternatively, mountain species may not change their abundance or distribution despite climate change (the "persist-in-place" hypothesis). Here we evaluate these three contrasting hypotheses by analyzing responses of breeding forest bird species to three decades of warming in southwestern British Columbia, Canada. Consistent with the upslope lean hypothesis, species' optimum elevations (elevations of highest abundance) increased by an average of 126 m, approximately tracking upslope movements in temperature isotherms. In contrast, species' elevational range limits were stable on average, contra the escalator to extinction hypothesis. Many individual species had stable distributions and abundances, and species with upslope abundance increases typically maintained stable abundances within the lower elevation portions of their range. Taken together, most species in our study region appear to be responding neutrally or favorably to warming temperatures. Nevertheless, one mountain species, the Canada Jay, Canada's national bird, is declining and vulnerable to the escalator to extinction within our study region. Overall, we emphasize the importance of empirical data-and abundance data in particular-when evaluating mountain species' vulnerability to climate change.},
}

Animals
*Birds/physiology
*Climate Change
British Columbia
*Temperature
Time Factors
Altitude
*Global Warming
Population Dynamics

@article {pmid40975631,
year = {2025},
author = {Laroche, D and Scheive, M},
title = {Diversity, equity, and inclusion in healthcare and society: A historical imperative, ethical framework, and strategic pathway amidst evolving challenges.},
journal = {Journal of the National Medical Association},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/j.jnma.2025.08.098},
pmid = {40975631},
issn = {1943-4693},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives aim to address systemic inequalities related to race, gender, socioeconomic status, and other identities in workplaces and society. Rooted in the civil rights struggles of the United States, DEI has evolved from affirmative action policies of the 1960s to broader efforts promoting inclusive environments and equitable opportunities.

OBJECTIVES: This paper explores the core principles of DEI, its historical context in American legal discrimination, the evolution and expansion of DEI initiatives, evidence-based responses to common criticisms, and the ongoing challenges and societal benefits of advancing DEI efforts.

METHODS: A comprehensive literature review of historical documents, legislative milestones, social movements, contemporary literature was conducted to synthesize the evolution and practical implications of DEI. This approach facilitates a nuanced understanding of DEI's necessity and impact within health equity.

RESULTS: DEI encompasses diversity (valuing differences), equity (fair treatment and access), and inclusion (empowering participation). Historical legal discrimination against African Americans, including slavery, Black Codes, Jim Crow laws, and voter suppression, created deep-seated systemic inequities within American society, workplaces, and healthcare. Affirmative action, initiated in the 1960s, laid the foundation for modern DEI efforts, which have expanded to include multiple marginalized groups. DEI initiatives have benefits to individuals and organizations that improve collaborate and innovation to overall enhance U.S. population health and wellbeing.

CONCLUSIONS: DEI remains a vital framework for addressing historical and systemic inequalities in American society and workplaces, particularly within healthcare. Effective DEI programs require sustained commitment, expert facilitation, and broad-based support to overcome resistance. Continued advocacy and research are essential to realize the full benefits of DEI for all individuals and organizations.},
}

@article {pmid40974626,
year = {2025},
author = {Daskalou, SD and Gerosideris, N and Tsakni, G and Vlotinou, P and Bablekos, G and Katsouri, IG},
title = {Identifying cognitive vulnerability in school-aged children born preterm: The role of neonatal and early-life factors.},
journal = {Early human development},
volume = {211},
number = {},
pages = {106396},
doi = {10.1016/j.earlhumdev.2025.106396},
pmid = {40974626},
issn = {1872-6232},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Children born preterm are at increased risk for cognitive difficulties. While gestational age is a known predictor, the combined influence of early-life variables such as breastfeeding, NICU stay, and birth weight on later cognitive outcomes remains less understood.

OBJECTIVE: To compare cognitive performance between preterm and non preterm school-aged children and identify neonatal and postnatal predictors of verbal and non verbal intelligence.

METHODS: A total of 140 children aged 6-12 years (70 preterm, 70 non preterm) were assessed using Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices (CPM) and Crichton Vocabulary Scale (CVS). Mann-Whitney U tests and multiple linear regressions were used to examine group differences and predictors of cognitive scores. Predictors included gestational age, NICU stay, socioeconomic status (SES), breastfeeding, birth weight, age, and sex. VIF values were used to assess multicollinearity.

RESULTS: Preterm children scored significantly lower than non preterm peers on both CPM (p < 0.001, r = - 0.27) and CVS (p < 0.001, r = - 0.43). Regression models showed that gestational age was a consistent predictor across both scales. Breastfeeding and higher SES were associated with higher CPM and CVS scores, while prolonged NICU stay negatively impacted CVS performance. No multicollinearity issues were detected (VIF < 2.6).

CONCLUSION: Preterm birth is linked to reduced cognitive performance during middle childhood, especially in verbal reasoning. Breastfeeding and shorter NICU stay may offer protective benefits. These findings highlight the importance of early-life factors and support targeted developmental surveillance and interventions for preterm populations.},
}

@article {pmid40972215,
year = {2025},
author = {Jia, S and Piché, N and McKee, MD and Reznikov, N},
title = {Advancing X-ray microcomputed tomography image processing of avian eggshells: An improved registration metric for multiscale 3D images and resolution-enhanced segmentation of eggshell pores using edge-attentive neural networks.},
journal = {Micron (Oxford, England : 1993)},
volume = {199},
number = {},
pages = {103915},
doi = {10.1016/j.micron.2025.103915},
pmid = {40972215},
issn = {1878-4291},
abstract = {Avian eggs exhibit a variety of shapes and sizes, reflecting different reproductive strategies. The eggshell not only protects the egg contents, but also regulates gas and water vapor exchange vital for embryonic development. While many studies have explored eggshell ultrastructure, the distribution of pores across the entire shell is less well understood because of a trade-off between resolution and field-of-view in imaging. To overcome this, a neural network was developed for resolution enhancement of low-resolution 3D tomographic data, while performing voxel-wise labeling. Trained on X-ray microcomputed tomography images of ostrich, guillemot and crow eggshells from a natural history museum collection, the model used stepwise magnification to create low- and high-resolution training sets. Registration performance was validated with a novel metric based on local grayscale gradients. An edge-attentive loss function prevented bias towards the dominant background class (95% of all voxels), ensuring accurate labeling of eggshell (5%) and pore (0.1%) voxels. The results indicate that besides edge-attention and class balancing, 3D context preservation and 3D convolution are of paramount importance for extrapolating subvoxel features.},
}

@article {pmid40969109,
year = {2025},
author = {Li, L and Xiao, Z and Hu, T},
title = {Camera Calibration Optimization Algorithm Based on Nutcracker Optimization Algorithm.},
journal = {Sensors (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {25},
number = {11},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/s25113521},
pmid = {40969109},
issn = {1424-8220},
abstract = {Camera calibration is a core task in computer vision. Traditional calibration methods usually achieve approximate solutions due to the complexity of solving nonlinear equations, resulting in reprojection errors. This article proposes a camera calibration optimization algorithm based on the Starling-Inspired Strategy optimization algorithm, which improves calibration accuracy and stability by combining chaotic mapping and sine cosine optimization strategies. First, we constructed a real camera calibration image dataset that includes various calibration scenarios and calculated the initial values of camera calibration parameters based on Zhang's calibration method. Then, we established a reprojection error model to evaluate the accuracy of the calibration parameters. Finally, we reduced the reprojection error through a hybrid optimization method based on the Steller Jay optimization algorithm. Experimental results show that our algorithm significantly reduces the reprojection error and improves the camera calibration accuracy.},
}

@article {pmid40965876,
year = {2025},
author = {Zhao, X and Yang, Y and Zhong, Y and Ouyang, H and Saliou, C and Jiang, LI},
title = {Development and Validation of Photo-Numerical Scales for Facial Wrinkles on Chinese Population.},
journal = {Journal of cosmetic dermatology},
volume = {24},
number = {9},
pages = {e70451},
pmid = {40965876},
issn = {1473-2165},
mesh = {Humans ; *Skin Aging/ethnology ; Female ; Middle Aged ; Adult ; Asian People ; Aged ; Reproducibility of Results ; *Face/diagnostic imaging ; Adolescent ; Young Adult ; China ; *Photography ; Skin/diagnostic imaging ; Imaging, Three-Dimensional ; East Asian People ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Various ethnicities age differently due to intrinsic genetic factors and inherent responses to UV exposure. The unique facial skeletal structure and function of Chinese skin can result in distinct aging signs compared to those observed in Caucasians. Additionally, there are limited published photo-numerical scales for cosmetic treatments, which often yield relatively low efficacy compared with aesthetic surgery. Therefore, appropriate and sensitive clinical evaluation tools are needed to accurately assess signs of aging and the efficacy of cosmetic treatments for the Chinese population.

AIMS: Develop a new set of photo-numerical scales to evaluate facial wrinkles specifically based on a Chinese population.

PATIENTS/METHODS: Four photo-numerical wrinkle scales were developed based on Visia-CR images from 5310 Chinese females aged 18-69, focusing on forehead, glabella, crow's feet, and nasolabial fold wrinkles. These 10-point (0-9) scales were rigorously validated for repeatability, reliability, and usability through inter- and intra-grader assessments conducted by multiple clinical research labs. Additionally, the correlation between these scales and objective 3D measurements from the Primos 3D instrument was analyzed. It was further assessed whether the scales were more appropriate and relevant in assessing Chinese skin wrinkles severity when compared to Caucasian skin or mixed population skin scales.

RESULTS: Forehead, glabellar, crow's feet, and nasolabial fold wrinkle scales were established based on the Griffith principle with a 10-point harmonious scale. Inter- and intra-grader validation data among 5 graders from different regions in China showed very high correlation scores, with ICC > 0.9 for intra-grader and ICC > 0.8 for inter-grader validation. The results indicate that the scales are highly reproducible and reliable when used by trained graders. Moreover, the grading results by naïve graders correlated well with those by expert graders, suggesting that the scales are user-friendly and easy to apply. A comparison between grading scores and Primos data revealed a strong correlation between wrinkles' volume and grading scores (r = 0.79) and between wrinkles' depth and grading scores (r = 0.82). This crucial validation confirmed that the core range of the scales (mild to moderate, the general target population for cosmetic products) is particularly effective. When compared to previously used Caucasian skin scales, the grading scores obtained from the Chinese wrinkle scales showed significantly higher mean wrinkle severity values (p < 0.001) for the same set of photos, indicating that the new scales are scientifically sound, practical, and suitable for a Chinese population.

CONCLUSIONS: In conclusion, the photo-numeric wrinkle scales have demonstrated strong repeatability and reproducibility, high practicality, and reliable correlation with objective measurement. Given the tremendous sample size covering various regions in China, these scales are beneficial tools to evaluate the effectiveness of cosmetic products in a Chinese population.},
}

Humans
*Skin Aging/ethnology
Female
Middle Aged
Adult
Asian People
Aged
Reproducibility of Results
*Face/diagnostic imaging
Adolescent
Young Adult
China
*Photography
Skin/diagnostic imaging
Imaging, Three-Dimensional
East Asian People

@article {pmid40961894,
year = {2025},
author = {Riviere, E and Fombouchet, Y and Gentaz, E and Courbois, Y},
title = {Developmental changes in emotion recognition from human biological motion in children with intellectual developmental disorders and typically developing peers.},
journal = {Journal of experimental child psychology},
volume = {261},
number = {},
pages = {106357},
doi = {10.1016/j.jecp.2025.106357},
pmid = {40961894},
issn = {1096-0457},
abstract = {Individuals with intellectual developmental disorders (IDD) often experience difficulties in emotion recognition. Previous research has primarily investigated these difficulties through tasks involving emotional facial expressions. However, no study has yet explored emotion recognition through other modalities, such as dynamic bodily expressions. The current study aimed to investigate developmental changes in emotion recognition through human biological motion presented in point-light displays (HBM-PLD) in children with IDD. Forty-two children with IDD and 157 typically developing (TD) children aged between 4 and 18 years participated in tasks requiring the recognition of emotional HBM-PLD (joy, anger, fear, sadness, and neutral) presented on a screen. We relied on a matched-pair design with two comparison groups: 31 pairs of participants were matched by chronological age (CA-matching) and 36 pairs were matched by fluid intelligence score assessed with Raven's 2 Progressive Matrices (CE-matching). Results showed that children with IDD performed significantly worse than their TD peers when matched by chronological age. However, when matching was based on cognitive efficiency, these differences were greatly reduced, bringing the performances of children with IDD closer to those of younger TD children with similar cognitive efficiency. Generalized additive modeling (GAM) demonstrated that these differences could be explained by chronological age (reflecting experience related to development) and fluid intelligence (reflecting reasoning abilities). These results, obtained for the first time using HBM-PLD, provide empirical support for the hypothesis that emotion recognition abilities in children with IDD may reflect a developmental delay. The discussion highlights important considerations for developing targeted interventions tailored to individuals with IDD.},
}

@article {pmid40959475,
year = {2024},
author = {Bhowon, Y and Prendergast, LA and Taylor, NF and Shields, N},
title = {Using Geospatial Analysis to Determine the Proximity of Community Gyms for a Population-Based Cohort of Young People with Cerebral Palsy.},
journal = {Physiotherapy Canada. Physiotherapie Canada},
volume = {76},
number = {4},
pages = {415-422},
pmid = {40959475},
issn = {0300-0508},
abstract = {PURPOSE: To quantify a perceived barrier to physical activity participation (proximity to exercise facilities) by investigating the distance a population-based cohort of young people with cerebral palsy aged 13-30 years lived from community gyms.

METHOD: We developed a web-based application using open-access software that could be used to complete a geospatial analysis by simultaneously visualizing, describing, and estimating the location of young people with cerebral palsy, using deidentified data from a cerebral palsy register, in terms of distance and travel time to all available community gyms in one metropolitan city. The suitability of facilities for individuals was not investigated. Distance to the closest gym for participants was measured using the "as the crow flies" and "street network" methods. The proportion of the cohort living 5, 7, and 9 km from a community gym was calculated using the "as the crow flies" method. Distances and travel times to the closest gym for each person were calculated using the "street network" method. Data analysis used one-dimensional (median, quartiles) and two-dimensional (spatial median, bagplot) dispersion measures.

RESULTS: Of 568 young people with cerebral palsy, 97% lived within 7 km of a community gym, with a median absolute distance to their closest gym of 3.6 km (1[st] and 3[rd] quartiles 2.4, 5.1) and median travel time of 6.6 minutes (1[st] and 3[rd] quartiles 4.4, 8.8) by car. For the two-dimensional analysis, the spatial medians were 3.7 km and 6.5 minutes.

CONCLUSIONS: The open-access, web-based application that was developed can be used by physiotherapists and others to study proximity of clinical and community infrastructure for other populations in other cities and regions. In this study, most young people with cerebral palsy living in one metropolitan city had reasonable access by car to a community gym.},
}

@article {pmid40958786,
year = {2025},
author = {, and , },
title = {Surveillance of West Nile virus infections in humans and animals in Europe, monthly report - data submitted up to 3 September 2025.},
journal = {EFSA journal. European Food Safety Authority},
volume = {23},
number = {9},
pages = {e9662},
doi = {10.2903/j.efsa.2025.9662},
pmid = {40958786},
issn = {1831-4732},
abstract = {In 2025, and as of 3 September 2025, 9 countries in Europe reported 652 locally acquired human cases of WNV infection with known place of infection. The earliest and latest date of onset were respectively on 2 June 2025 and 31 August 2025. Locally acquired cases were reported by Italy (500), Greece (69, of which 1 with unknown place of infection), Serbia (33), France (20), Romania (15), Hungary (6), Spain (5), Albania (3) and Bulgaria (1). In Europe, 38 deaths were reported. Case numbers reported so far this year are above the average for the past decade in the same period (514). However, these figures remain lower than those seen in 2018, 2022, and 2024 - years when virus circulation was particularly intense, with over 1000 cases reported by this point in the year. As the latter figures are based on consolidated data, while the current year's data remain delayed and incomplete, direct comparisons should be made with caution. Italy is currently experiencing a large outbreak, with 500 confirmed human infections, including 32 fatalities (case fatality rate of 6.4%, which is within the expected range). This is the highest number of human WNV infections reported by Italy at this time of the year. The cases are mainly reported from the Lazio region (Latina, Roma and Frosinone), with a total of 218 cases, and the Campania region (Napoli, Caserta, Salerno and Avellino), with a total 106 cases. Other regions are reporting similar numbers as in previous years. As of 3 September 2025, locally acquired human cases of WNV infection have been reported in 100 regions across nine countries. This compares with 174 regions (16 countries) during the same period in 2024, and 129 regions (12 countries) in 2018 (based on consolidated data). All nine countries have previously reported human cases of WNV. During the current transmission season, the following regions reported human cases of WNV infection for the first time ever: by Italy in Genova (ITC33), Sondrio (ITC44), Avellino (ITF34), Catanzaro (ITF63), Reggio di Calabria (ITF65), Palermo (ITG12), Messina (ITG13), Nuoro (ITG2E), Arezzo (ITI18), Latina (ITI44) and Frosinone (ITI45), by France in Seine-Saint-Denis (FR106), Puy-de-Dôme (FRK14) and Vaucluse (FRL06), and by Romania in Sălaj (RO116). As observed in previous years, most cases are among males aged 65 years and older. The hospitalisation rate is similar to previous years, with 91% of cases hospitalised this year compared to 92% in the past decade. The high hospitalisation rate is due to the nature of WNV surveillance, which tends to predominantly capture the most severe cases. The case fatality rate so far this year is 6%, which is below but comparable to the 11% observed in the previous decade. Neurological manifestations were reported in 54% of cases this year, compared to 67% in the previous decade. In general, a dominance of neurological cases is expected, as cases with more severe symptoms are more likely to be diagnosed. From the veterinary perspective, 72 WNV outbreaks among equids and 114 outbreaks among birds have been reported in Europe in 2025. The earliest start date of an outbreak among equids and birds was on 15 January 2025 in Germany and 16 February 2025 in Italy, while the latest onset of an outbreak among equids and birds was, respectively, on 21 August 2025 in Austria and 22 August 2025 in Italy. Outbreaks among equids were reported by Italy (44), Croatia (9), France (6), Greece (4), Hungary (3), Spain (3), Germany (2) and Austria (1). Outbreaks among birds were reported by Italy (104), Germany (8), Austria (1) and Spain (1). In the Animal Disease Information System (ADIS) database, no information was provided on the exact equid species reported, whereas species details were available for birds. The bird species associated with the highest number of reported outbreaks were the carrion crow (29) and the common magpie (25), followed by the common kestrel (10), herring gull (7), unidentified Accipitridae (6), hooded crow (5), common wood-pigeon (4) and little owl (3). In addition, several other bird species were involved in only one or two outbreaks. In June and July 2025, the monthly number of outbreaks in equids slightly exceeded the 10-year average (2015-2024) for those months, while the number of outbreaks reported in August fell below the 10-year average. The number of bird outbreaks reported to date this year remains below the figures recorded during the same period since 2022 - the year following the introduction of mandatory reporting of bird outbreaks by EU Member States. In 2024, up to 3 September, 205 outbreaks in equids and 289 in birds were reported, figures that are notably higher (by 62%) than those recorded during the same period in 2025. As of 3 September 2025, outbreaks in birds and/or equids have been reported in 63 regions across eight countries. This compares with 131 regions (13 countries) during the same period in 2024 and 50 regions (seven countries) in 2018. All eight countries reported WNV outbreaks in birds and/or equids in 2024 and in prior years, reflecting endemic WNV activity in these territories. However, as of 3 September, outbreaks in birds and/or equids were reported for the first time to ADIS in the following seven Italian provinces: Caltanissetta (ITG15), Foggia (ITF46), Frosinone (ITI45), L'Aquila (ITF11), Lecco (ITC43), Reggio Calabria (ITF65), and Siracusa (ITG19). Additionally, outbreaks in birds and/or equids were reported for the first time by Croatia in Koprivničko-križevačka županija (HR063) and Bjelovarsko-bilogorska županija (HR021), by France in Yvelines (FR103), and by Spain in Almería (ES611) and Menorca (ES533). Furthermore, in 2025, outbreaks in equids were reported in the Greek region of Thasos-Kavala (EL515) following 12 years since the last reported outbreak in animals. Reports of WNV outbreaks during the winter, when mosquito activity is minimal, should be carefully evaluated as they raise questions about the timing of infection. Two such reports - one outbreak in equids reported by Germany in January, and one in birds reported by Italy in February - warrant cautious interpretation, as they may reflect residual detection (e.g. lingering antibodies or viral RNA from infections acquired in the year before) rather than active transmission in 2025. Five countries - Italy, Greece, France, Hungary, and Spain - reported both WNV human cases and outbreaks in equids and birds. As of 3 September 2025, Italy accounted for 76.3% of all reported human cases and for 79.6% of all reported outbreaks in equids and birds, underscoring the significant WNV activity in the country. This is likely due to favourable climate conditions and ecological hotspots (e.g. wetlands, agricultural areas) that support WNV transmission by influencing mosquito vector populations and host dynamics. Intensive surveillance in Italy may also contribute to high detection rates of human cases and outbreaks in birds and equids. The identification of WNV cases in humans and animals within previously unaffected areas underscores the ongoing geographic expansion of the virus, which is most likely due to environmental, climatic and ecological changes. In addition, increased surveillance or monitoring sensitivity and raised awareness in these areas might play a role in the detection of the cases. Owing to delays in diagnosis and reporting, as well as the fact that most of the WNV infections are asymptomatic or subclinical, the case numbers provided in this report likely underestimate the true number of cases. Of note, the seasonal surveillance in humans primarily focuses on capturing laboratory-confirmed cases, which contributes to the diagnostic delay. Given the favourable weather conditions for WNV transmission in Europe, the number of human cases and outbreaks in equids and birds might continue to rise in the coming weeks. In previous years, the peak of transmission was observed in August-September. Both ECDC and EFSA will closely follow up on the situation in Europe, in particular regarding severity indicators.},
}

@article {pmid40952030,
year = {2025},
author = {Wang, L and Wang, C and Jiang, L and Hu, H and Wu, Y and Li, Y and Sun, P},
title = {Efficacy of Encorelane in Enhancing Barrier Function and Reducing Aging Signs in Sensitive Skin.},
journal = {Journal of cosmetic dermatology},
volume = {24},
number = {9},
pages = {e70454},
pmid = {40952030},
issn = {1473-2165},
support = {//Proya Cosmetics Co. Ltd./ ; },
mesh = {*Skin Aging/drug effects/radiation effects ; Humans ; Filaggrin Proteins ; Female ; Double-Blind Method ; Middle Aged ; Adult ; Cytokines/metabolism ; Male ; Ultraviolet Rays/adverse effects ; Epidermis/drug effects/metabolism ; *Oligosaccharides/pharmacology/therapeutic use/administration & dosage ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Sensitive skin requires targeted care to improve barrier function, reduce inflammation, and manage neurovascular reactivity.

OBJECTIVE: Encorelane, a novel ingredient blend of saccharide isomerate, ribose, and fructooligosaccharides, was evaluated for its efficacy in addressing sensitive skin and visible aging signs.

METHODS: In vitro: A 3D epidermal model (EpiKutis) with Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) induction was used to assess cytokines (interleukin 1α [IL-1α], interleukin 6 [IL-6], interleukin 8 [IL-8], tumor necrosis factor α [TNF-α], prostaglandin E2 [PGE2]) and barrier markers (filaggrin [FLG], loricrin [LOR], transglutaminase 1 [TGM1]). Hydration was examined via aquaporin 3 (AQP3) expression levels. Anti-wrinkle efficacy was tested against UVA/UVB exposure, evaluating collagen synthesis and skin matrix components (Collagen types I, III, IV, VII, XVII, Laminin 5, hyaluronic acid [HA], Chondroitin sulfate [CS]). In vivo: A 6-week double-blind, half-face study in 23 sensitive-skin subjects evaluated the clinical effects of Encorelane versus placebo on repair, redness, firmness, and wrinkles.

RESULTS: In vitro: Compared to the control group, Encorelane significantly reduced the levels of IL-1α, TNF-α, IL-6, IL-8, and PGE2 (p < 0.05), and significantly increased the levels of AQP3, FLG, LOR, TGM1, collagen types I, III, IV, VII, XVII, and laminin 5 (p < 0.05). In vivo: Compared to the placebo, Encorelane significantly improved TEWL, R2, F4, and crow's feet wrinkles (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION: Encorelane effectively targets both inflammation and aging signs, supporting its use as a dermocosmetic solution for sensitive, aging-prone skin.},
}

*Skin Aging/drug effects/radiation effects
Humans
Filaggrin Proteins
Female
Double-Blind Method
Middle Aged
Adult
Cytokines/metabolism
Male
Ultraviolet Rays/adverse effects
Epidermis/drug effects/metabolism
*Oligosaccharides/pharmacology/therapeutic use/administration & dosage

@article {pmid40944353,
year = {2025},
author = {Sun, NN and Jia, BY and Xu, RY and Gao, LF and Guo, XF and Li, R and Wang, YJ and Wang, SM and Du, B},
title = {Male and Female Parent Birds Enhance Their Reproductive Success Using Different Strategies but the Same Optimal Pathway.},
journal = {Molecular ecology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e70111},
doi = {10.1111/mec.70111},
pmid = {40944353},
issn = {1365-294X},
support = {32071491//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 31772465//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 31572271//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 31370417//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; },
abstract = {Parental birds exhibit diverse alternative reproductive strategies; however, the pathways by which these alternative strategies enhance the reproductive success of parents remain poorly understood. Here, we used generalised linear mixed models (GLMMs) and structural equation modelling (SEM) to analyse a long-term dataset of multiple components of reproductive fitness in the azure-winged magpie (Cyanopica cyanus), including incipient offspring number, extra-pair fertilisation (EPF), unhatched eggs, offspring preyed on by predators and conspecific raiders and offspring that starved. GLMM results revealed significant associations between these components and the first lay date. SEM further elucidated causal relationships among female/male breeding conditions, cooperative breeding, first lay date and the positive/negative effects on female/male reproductive success. SEM results revealed that both female and male reproductive success were mainly influenced by negative effects rather than positive effects. Specifically, negative effects were largely determined by unhatched eggs for females but by female EPF frequency for males. In contrast, positive effects were predominantly determined by the incipient offspring number for both sexes. Therefore, minimising negative effects was prioritised over enhancing positive effects to achieve reproductive success in both sexes. To modulate these effects, females and males employed different strategies. However, they achieved their respective goals through a shared pathway: reducing negative effects for social bonds formed with smaller-bodied males and enhancing positive effects for social bonds formed with larger-bodied males. Our multivariate analysis of various aspects of avian reproduction suggests that the formation of social bonds plays a more important role than alternative reproductive strategies in determining individual reproductive success.},
}

@article {pmid40936599,
year = {2025},
author = {Stokes, BR and Keitt, TH},
title = {An Intergeneric Hybrid Between Historically Isolated Temperate and Tropical Jays Following Recent Range Expansion.},
journal = {Ecology and evolution},
volume = {15},
number = {9},
pages = {e72148},
pmid = {40936599},
issn = {2045-7758},
abstract = {Shifts in species' ranges are creating novel ecosystems and previously unobserved species interactions. Documenting and understanding these novel interactions between species is an emergent priority of global ecological importance. We report a wild hybridization resulting from recent range expansion: a hybrid between Green Jay (Cyanocorax yncas) and Blue Jay (Cyanocitta cristata), charismatic and historically allopatric species whose ranges newly overlap in Texas. Morphological and genetic evidence indicate the hybrid individual resulted from the pairing of a female Green Jay and a male Blue Jay. Hybridization between these species is remarkable across vertebrate species, as such events typically occur between recently diverged populations, whereas the most recent common ancestor to Blue and Green Jays is estimated to have lived at least 7 million years ago. We believe this hybridization event joins a growing list of increasingly unexpected outcomes of contemporaneous range expansions fueled by anthropogenic global change. As birds are keystone species in ecological webs and reservoirs for zoonotic diseases, the creation of unique genomic contexts resulting from climate-driven hybridization is a phenomenon of both scientific and practical importance.},
}

@article {pmid40934918,
year = {2025},
author = {Moll, FW and Würzler, J and Nieder, A},
title = {Learned precision tool use in carrion crows.},
journal = {Current biology : CB},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/j.cub.2025.08.033},
pmid = {40934918},
issn = {1879-0445},
abstract = {Tool use is rare in the animal kingdom but relatively common among dexterous generalists such as primates, parrots, and corvid songbirds.[1] New Caledonian (NC) crows, known for their instinctive tool-making abilities, have long intrigued researchers; however, the motor-cognitive skills underlying these behaviors-such as the level of cause-and-effect understanding and precise yet flexible motor control-remain unresolved.[2][,][3][,][4][,][5][,][6] To investigate how learning shapes these skills, we studied carrion crows, an NC-crow-related corvid species with similar cognitive abilities but no tool-use-specific adaptations.[7][,][8] We trained three tool-naive carrion crows to use a beak-held stick to retrieve food pellets from a transparent Plexiglas crack in an automated apparatus. Utilizing computational pose estimation,[9] we tracked the crows' development of stick tool skills over thousands of trials. Our findings demonstrate that tool-naive carrion crows learn to handle tools with impressive skill, achieving dexterity similar to habitual tool users like NC crows. More notably, we observed that all the crows developed efficient, unique, and goal-directed movement patterns. Even after extensive training, the crows retained a remarkable level of flexibility, swiftly correcting errors and adjusting the orientation of the stick to maintain precise alignment. Our findings suggest that reinforcement learning alone can foster skilled tool use in dexterous, cognitively flexible corvids. This implies that only modest evolutionary changes-such as a predisposition to maneuver elongated objects when exploring crevices[7][,][10]-may be needed to transform dexterous generalists into habitual tool users.},
}

@article {pmid40931095,
year = {2025},
author = {Johnston, M and Kirschhock, ME and Nieder, A},
title = {A neuronal correlate for time interval estimation in the crow's telencephalon.},
journal = {Nature communications},
volume = {16},
number = {1},
pages = {8256},
pmid = {40931095},
issn = {2041-1723},
support = {Postdoctoral Fellowship//Alexander von Humboldt-Stiftung (Alexander von Humboldt Foundation)/ ; NI 618/11-1//Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (German Research Foundation)/ ; },
abstract = {Interval timing, the ability to perceive and estimate durations between events, is essential for many animal behaviors. In mammals, it is linked to specific cortical and sub-cortical brain regions, but its neural basis in birds remains unclear. We trained two male carrion crows on a time estimation task using visual stimuli, cueing them to wait for a minimum duration of 1500 ms, 3000 ms, or 6000 ms before responding to receive a reward. During the task, we recorded activity from single neurons in the nidopallium caudolaterale (NCL), the avian executive telencephalon. Many neurons showed tuning to specific durations, suggesting that time intervals are encoded as abstract magnitudes along an ordered scale. Population-level decoding revealed that NCL activity predicted the crows' intended wait time, independent of the sensory properties of the cues. These findings show that abstract time estimation can emerge from neural architectures different from the mammalian neocortex.},
}

@article {pmid40928221,
year = {2025},
author = {Arosoaie, A and Hennessy, E},
title = {Teaching critical histories of microbiology: two case studies.},
journal = {Journal of microbiology & biology education},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e0021024},
doi = {10.1128/jmbe.00210-24},
pmid = {40928221},
issn = {1935-7877},
abstract = {In recent years, microbiologists have emphasized the importance of understanding the historical relation between microbiomes and public health as a means of contributing to social equity. Consistent with critical engaged and anti-racist pedagogical practices, we developed a curricular intervention-HEALing the Sciences-that centers critical histories of science as means to educate scientists about how science has contributed to and replicated inequities in society. Here, we describe two case studies that our interdisciplinary team designed, implemented, and assessed specifically for a module on the history of microbiology. Both case studies, "Germs and Jim Crow" and "Ghosting Race," encourage participants to think critically about the field of microbiology's historical contributions to the maintenance of racial disparities in ways that remain relevant to the present. In this manuscript, we expand on the implementation and assessment of the case studies, suggesting possible modifications that would enable instructors to adopt and adapt the research design we have developed. We have taught these case studies via remote synchronous instruction to a cohort of microbiologists, including graduate students, faculty, and research staff, who provided extensive qualitative feedback through surveys that suggest both the effectiveness of the material and possible modifications for improvement. We hope these case studies will provide STEM educators in microbiology and beyond with useful pedagogical tools to advance anti-racist efforts in the academe.},
}

@article {pmid40924242,
year = {2025},
author = {Cornero, FM and Lane, WM and Clayton, NS},
title = {Can an old rook learn new tricks? Vocal command comprehension and obedience in rooks (Corvus frugilegus).},
journal = {Animal cognition},
volume = {28},
number = {1},
pages = {81},
pmid = {40924242},
issn = {1435-9456},
support = {Herchel Smith Postgraduate Fellowship//Harvard University/ ; },
mesh = {Animals ; Male ; Cues ; *Crows/physiology ; *Vocalization, Animal ; *Learning ; Comprehension ; Humans ; },
abstract = {Although many animal species are known to learn to respond to human verbal commands, this ability is understudied, as are the cues used to do so. For the best-studied species, the dog, domestication itself is used to justify successful attending to human communicative cues. However, the role of domestication in sensitivity to human cues remains debated. Corvids are songbirds that engage in complex communicative behaviors with conspecifics and with other species. Rooks (Corvus frugilegus) are a cognitively complex, undomesticated corvid shown to possess complex vocal behaviors, and to learn to follow human gaze and pointing cues. Leonidas (Leo), an adult rook, began following verbal commands during unrelated studies, and was tested to confirm his command proficiency and to examine what part(s) of the signal he was using. Leo learned to perform three verbal commands correctly, and was primarily attending to the auditory components of the commands. He showed no evidence of using gaze or any subconscious cues from the experimenter, and though he did initially attend to lip movements, he rapidly overcame their absence. Two additional rooks could only be tested for a shorter duration, but also showed learning of commands, and reached proficiency in some. The ability of this undomesticated non-mammalian species to learn human verbal commands joins existing evidence that neither domestication nor extensive enculturation are strictly necessary for use of heterospecific human cues: instead, some species may be able to co-opt other complex cognitive abilities, possibly the same ones required for their complex communication, to achieve this.},
}

Animals
Male
Cues
*Crows/physiology
*Vocalization, Animal
*Learning
Comprehension
Humans

@article {pmid40910756,
year = {2025},
author = {Van de Weyer, Y and Zendri, F and Barbon, AR and Maciuca, IE and Patel, E and Lopez, J and Chantrey, J and Drake, G},
title = {Osteomyelitis, arthritis and myositis associated with Yersinia pseudotuberculosis in village weavers (Ploceus cucullatus) and an oriental magpie robin (Copsychus saularis).},
journal = {Avian pathology : journal of the W.V.P.A},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {1-9},
doi = {10.1080/03079457.2025.2536335},
pmid = {40910756},
issn = {1465-3338},
abstract = {Avian pseudotuberculosis infection usually presents as well-demarcated visceral necrotic foci, typically affecting the gastrointestinal tract, liver and spleen. This case series describes an atypical presentation of Yersinia pseudotuberculosis (Yptb) characterized by severe chronic myositis, arthritis and osteomyelitis in five village weavers (Ploceus cucullatus), and acute osteomyelitis and myositis associated with septicaemia in an oriental magpie robin (Copsychus saularis) from a zoological collection. Clinical signs of the weavers included lethargy, poor flying ability and focally extensive periarticular and muscular swelling, whereas the magpie robin was found dead without premonitory signs. Radiography revealed focal lytic and proliferative bone lesions with loss of articular congruity and increased radiopacity of skeletal muscles, which was compatible with severe necrotizing, granulomatous osteomyelitis and polyphasic myositis with large intralesional bacterial colonies on histology. Most (n = 4/5) birds with available histology exhibited only mild to moderate heterophilic to histiocytic inflammatory lesions in their intestines, spleen and liver. Bacterial cultures typically yielded Yptb from joint and muscle samples (3/3), and less consistently from visceral organs (6/11) and bone marrow (0/5). Bacterial typing using Fourier-transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy suggested that weaver Yptb strains were closely related. Whole genome sequencing of two Yptb strains identified one as ST14 serotype O:2a and the other ST42 serotype O:1a, with the presence of virulence genes including plasmid-borne yadA and chromosomally encoded virulence genes ail and invA. Weavers may be prone to develop atypical pseudotuberculosis with the musculoskeletal system as a predilection site for bacterial growth and associated granulomatous lesions.},
}

@article {pmid40910225,
year = {2025},
author = {Mussetto, I and Bongiovanni, A and Colavita, F and Giambi, C and Sala, MG and Del Borgo, C and Carletti, F and Scicluna, MT and Zerbetto, A and Corpolongo, A and Romiti, F and Valli, MB and Vaglio, S and Giammattei, R and Scognamiglio, P and De Carli, G and Agresta, A and De Liberato, C and Di Luzio, G and Micarelli, F and Nicastri, E and Siddu, A and Ficarelli, V and Girardi, E and Maggi, F and Vairo, F and , and , },
title = {Outbreak of autochthonous West Nile virus infection in Lazio region, Italy, July to August 2025: preliminary investigation.},
journal = {Euro surveillance : bulletin Europeen sur les maladies transmissibles = European communicable disease bulletin},
volume = {30},
number = {35},
pages = {},
doi = {10.2807/1560-7917.ES.2025.30.35.2500634},
pmid = {40910225},
issn = {1560-7917},
mesh = {*West Nile Fever/epidemiology/diagnosis/veterinary/virology ; Italy/epidemiology ; *Disease Outbreaks ; *West Nile virus/genetics/isolation & purification/classification ; Humans ; Animals ; Horses/virology ; Phylogeny ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Female ; Culex/virology ; Adult ; Horse Diseases/epidemiology/virology ; Aged ; Blood Donors/statistics & numerical data ; Adolescent ; },
abstract = {In July-18 August 2025, 171 autochthonous cases with West Nile virus (WNV) infection were confirmed in Lazio, Italy: four asymptomatic blood donors, 110 with WNV fever, 57 with neuroinvasive syndrome and nine deaths. WNV lineage 2 was detected in two neuroinvasive cases. Infection with WNV was confirmed in 28 horses, five crows and a Culex pipiens pool. We present the preliminary epidemiological and phylogenetic analysis of the outbreak and the public health measures taken within a One Health approach.},
}

*West Nile Fever/epidemiology/diagnosis/veterinary/virology
Italy/epidemiology
*Disease Outbreaks
*West Nile virus/genetics/isolation & purification/classification
Humans
Animals
Horses/virology
Phylogeny
Male
Middle Aged
Female
Culex/virology
Adult
Horse Diseases/epidemiology/virology
Aged
Blood Donors/statistics & numerical data
Adolescent

@article {pmid40909241,
year = {2025},
author = {Brancaccio, A and Epifania, OM and Anselmi, P and de Chiusole, D},
title = {Automatic Generation of Rule-Based Raven-Like Matrices in R: The matRiks Package.},
journal = {Applied psychological measurement},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {01466216251374826},
pmid = {40909241},
issn = {1552-3497},
}

@article {pmid40907670,
year = {2025},
author = {Baker, MA and Klompas, M and Blaeser, EM and Rhee, C and Abdulhayoglu, E and Cadogan, J and Flanigan, E and Pearson, Z and Taffner, S and Winkler, M and Boire, N and Worley, J and Brigl, M and Bry, L and Pecora, N},
title = {Prospective Whole Genome Sequencing to Aid the Identification and Control of Methicillin-Susceptible Staphylococcus aureus Transmissions in a Neonatal ICU.},
journal = {The Journal of infection},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {106607},
doi = {10.1016/j.jinf.2025.106607},
pmid = {40907670},
issn = {1532-2742},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Conventional surveillance methods may miss healthcare-associated pathogen transmission, particularly for common, drug-susceptible organisms. It is unclear if prospective genomic analyses can help identify otherwise silent transmission events and inform prevention efforts.

METHODS: We sequenced methicillin susceptible Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA) surveillance and clinical isolates in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) of an academic hospital between Feb 2022 and Mar 2024. Insights gleaned from genomic-epidemiologic analyses were used to control a large MSSA cluster and to calibrate infection control measures thereafter.

FINDINGS: There were 2352 babies admitted during the 26-month study period, of whom 318 became colonized or infected with MSSA. Monthly MSSA incidence rates were largely stable throughout this period but whole genome sequencing demonstrated 16 MSSA clusters (range 2-19 babies/cluster). Sequencing data integrated with epidemiologic analyses informed escalating infection control measures to control a sustained cluster of 19 babies infected with MSSA ST30 (including increased hand hygiene monitoring, enhanced environmental and equipment cleaning, daily chlorhexidine hand and arm scrub for all healthcare workers, contact precautions, decolonization of MSSA carriers), a subsequent decision against further intensification (foregoing screening all staff members for MSSA carriage), and the subsequent liberalization of some interventions (dropping contact precautions for lower risk babies). While intensified infection control measures controlled the primary ST30 cluster, low-level transmission events (range 2-8 babies) were detected throughout the study period despite those interventions.

INTERPRETATIONS: Integrating prospective genomic and epidemiologic analyses of healthcare-associated pathogens can help identify unrecognized transmission clusters and inform and calibrate infection control response measures.

FUNDING: This study was funded by the BWH Department of Pathology, P30 DK034854, and the Massachusetts Life Sciences Center (MLSC). The work of Jay Worley was supported by the National Center for Biotechnology Information of the National Library of Medicine (NLM), and the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), National Institutes of Health (NIH).},
}

@article {pmid40896066,
year = {2025},
author = {Maeshima, S and Takeda, A and Sakurai, K and Osawa, A and Arai, H},
title = {Aphasia Leading to the Diagnosis of Myotonic Dystrophy Type 1: A Case Report.},
journal = {Cureus},
volume = {17},
number = {7},
pages = {e89002},
doi = {10.7759/cureus.89002},
pmid = {40896066},
issn = {2168-8184},
abstract = {Myotonic dystrophy type 1 (DM1) is a multisystem autosomal dominant disorder primarily characterized by myotonia and distal muscle weakness. Central nervous system (CNS) involvement, including cognitive, executive, and emotional dysfunctions, is increasingly being recognized; however, language impairment as an initial presentation is rare. A 50-year-old right-handed woman with a six-month history of progressive word-finding difficulty, vague speech, and social withdrawal was referred for evaluation. Neurological examination revealed distal muscle atrophy (grip strength: 5 kg right, 8 kg left) without overt dysarthria or dysphagia, and intact reflexes and coordination. Neuropsychological testing revealed fluent spontaneous speech with anomia, semantic paraphasia, impaired comprehension of longer sentences, and surface dyslexia/agraphia (Mini-Mental State Examination-Japanese: 22/30, Frontal Assessment Battery: 8/18, Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices: 28/36, Montreal Cognitive Assessment-Japanese: 21/30). Brain magnetic resonance imaging revealed left-sided frontotemporal and limbic atrophy, and [99m]Tc-ethyl cysteinate dimer single-photon emission computed tomography showed a corresponding left-dominant hypoperfusion. Amyloid positron emission tomography (PET) scan results were negative. Two weeks later, percussion and grip myotonia emerged. Genetic analysis revealed a cytosine-thymine-guanine repeat expansion (~1500 repeats) in the myotonic protein kinase 1 gene, confirming the diagnosis of DM1. The patient's semantic-variant primary progressive aphasia-like profile (impaired semantic processing with preserved fluency) and frontotemporal imaging findings were consistent with rare CNS phenotypes reported in DM1. Previous studies have described frontotemporal atrophy, hypoperfusion, and cognitive/emotional changes in DM1. Negative amyloid PET excluded Alzheimer-related primary progressive aphasia. The subsequent detection of myotonia and a positive family history were key to diagnosis. We conclude that this case expands the clinical spectrum of DM1 to include progressive aphasia as an initial manifestation. Clinicians should maintain a high suspicion of neuromuscular disorders and actively pursue targeted genetic testing when atypical aphasia symptoms are accompanied by distal muscle atrophy.},
}

@article {pmid40894466,
year = {2025},
author = {, and , },
title = {Surveillance of West Nile virus infections in humans and animals in Europe, monthly report - data submitted up to 6 August 2025.},
journal = {EFSA journal. European Food Safety Authority},
volume = {23},
number = {8},
pages = {e9624},
doi = {10.2903/j.efsa.2025.9624},
pmid = {40894466},
issn = {1831-4732},
abstract = {In 2025, and as of 6 August 2025, 6 countries in Europe reported 202 locally acquired human cases of WNV infection with known place of infection. The earliest and latest date of onset were respectively on 2 June 2025 and 2 August 2025. Locally acquired cases were reported by Italy (168), Greece (26), France (3, of which 1 with unknown place of infection), Romania (3), Bulgaria (1) and Hungary (1). In Europe, 10 deaths were reported. Case numbers reported so far this year are slightly above the average for the past decade in the same period (163). However, these figures remain lower than those seen in 2024 and 2018-years when virus circulation was particularly intense, with 382 and 385 cases reported by this point in the year, respectively. As of 6 August, locally acquired human cases of West Nile virus (WNV) infection have been reported in 40 regions across six countries. This compares with 108 regions (11 countries) during the same period in 2024 and 68 regions in 2018 (seven countries). All six countries have previously reported human cases of WNV. Italy is currently experiencing a significant outbreak, with 168 confirmed human infections, including 10 fatalities. For the first time in Italy, the provinces of Latina (ITI44) and Frosinone (ITI45) have reported human cases. Similarly, Romania has reported its first cases in Sălaj County (RO116). As observed in previous years, most cases were among males aged 65 years and older. The hospitalisation rate was high compared with previous years, with 100% of cases hospitalised this year compared to 93% in the past decade. That most cases are hospitalised is most likely due to the nature of WNV surveillance, which tends to predominantly capture the most severe cases. The case fatality rate so far this year is 7%, which is comparable to the 11% observed in the previous decade. Neurological manifestations were reported in 56% of cases this year compared to 66% in the previous decade. In general, a dominance of neurological cases is expected, as cases with more severe symptoms are more likely to be diagnosed. From the veterinary perspective, 16 WNV outbreaks among equids and 20 outbreaks among birds have been reported in Europe in 2025. The earliest start date of an outbreak among equids and birds was on 15 January 2025 in Germany and 16 February 2025 in Italy, while the latest onset of an outbreak among equids and birds was, respectively, on 29 July 2025 in Italy and 29 July 2025 in Austria. Outbreaks among equids were reported by Italy (11), Greece (2), Germany (1), Hungary (1) and Spain (1). Outbreaks among birds were reported by Italy (19) and Austria (1). In the Animal Disease Information System (ADIS) database no information was provided on the exact equid species reported, whereas species details were available for birds. The following bird species were associated with the reported outbreaks: common magpie (4), common kestrel (4), carrion crow (3), herring gull (3), hooded crow (3), common moorhen (1), rock dove (1), and unidentified Columbidae (1). In June and July 2025, the monthly number of outbreaks in equids slightly exceeded the 10-year mean (2015-2024) of June and July, while the monthly count for outbreaks in birds from March to July 2025 fell below the historical monthly mean, with a marked decline in July 2025. In 2024, up to 6 August, 38 and 132 outbreaks were reported in equids and birds, respectively, which is notably higher than the number of outbreaks reported during the same period in 2025. As of 6 August 2025, outbreaks in birds and/or equids have been reported in 23 regions across six countries. This compares with 47 regions (eight countries) during the same period in 2024 and 16 regions (three countries) in 2018. All six countries reported WNV outbreaks in birds and/or equids in 2024 and in prior years, reflecting endemic WNV activity in these territories. However, as of 6 August, outbreaks in birds and/or equids were reported for the first time to ADIS in the following three Italian provinces: Foggia (ITF46), L'Aquila (ITF11), and Lecco (ITC43). Additionally, equid outbreaks were reported for the first time by Greece in Aetolia-Acarnania (EL631) and Kavala (EL515), and by Spain in Almería (ES611). Reports of WNV outbreaks during the winter, when mosquito activity is minimal, should be carefully evaluated as they raise questions about the timing of infection. Two such reports - one outbreak in equids reported by Germany in January, and one in birds reported by Italy in February - warrant cautious interpretation, as they may reflect residual detection (e.g. lingering antibodies or viral RNA from infections acquired in the year before) rather than active transmission in 2025. Three countries - Italy, Greece and Hungary - reported both WNV human cases and outbreaks in equids and birds. As of 6 August 2025, Italy accounted for 83% of all reported human cases and all reported outbreaks in equids and birds, underscoring the significant WNV activity in the country. This is likely due to favourable climate conditions and ecological hotspots (e.g. wetlands, agricultural areas) that support WNV transmission by influencing mosquito vector populations and host dynamics. Intensive surveillance in Italy may also contribute to high detection rates of human cases and outbreaks in birds and equids. The identification of WNV cases in humans and animals within previously unaffected areas underscores the ongoing geographic expansion of the virus, which is most likely due to environmental, climatic and ecological changes. In addition, increased surveillance or monitoring sensitivity and raised awareness in these areas might play a role in the detection of the cases. Owing to delays in diagnosis and reporting, as well as the fact that most of the WNV infections are asymptomatic or subclinical, the case numbers provided in this report likely underestimate the true number of cases. Of note, the seasonal surveillance in humans primarily focuses on capturing laboratory-confirmed cases, which contributes to the diagnostic delay. Given the favourable weather conditions for WNV transmission in Europe, we expect that the number of human cases and outbreaks in equids and birds will continue to raise in the coming weeks. In previous years, the peak of transmission was observed in August-September. Both ECDC and EFSA will follow-up closely on the situation in Europe, in particular regarding severity indicators.},
}

@article {pmid40890360,
year = {2025},
author = {Molina-Morales, M and Avilés, JM and Precioso, M and Martínez, JG and Morales, MM},
title = {Lifetime expression of egg rejection behaviour in Eurasian magpies is associated with variation in a polymorphic genetic marker.},
journal = {Scientific reports},
volume = {15},
number = {1},
pages = {32181},
pmid = {40890360},
issn = {2045-2322},
support = {Juan de la Cierva-Incorporación fellowship (IJC2018-036411-I)//SEEEEE (Sociedad Española de Etología y Ecología Evolutiva/ ; },
mesh = {Animals ; Female ; Microsatellite Repeats/genetics ; *Polymorphism, Genetic ; Genetic Markers ; *Nesting Behavior/physiology ; Genotype ; *Passeriformes/genetics/physiology ; Gene Frequency ; *Ovum ; },
abstract = {Obligate avian brood parasitism is a reproductive strategy in which parasitic birds rely entirely on host species for incubation and chick rearing, reducing host reproductive success. This pressure has led many host species to evolve defenses, particularly the ability to recognize and reject parasitic eggs. However, not all individuals within a host population exhibit this behavior-some accept parasitic eggs, while others reject them. One proposed explanation for this behavioral variation is genetic polymorphism. Previous research on Eurasian magpies (Pica pica) linked egg rejection behavior to a specific microsatellite locus (Ase64), though these studies used genotypes from nestlings, not adult females, who are the ones expressing the behavior. Since egg rejection can change with age, accurately categorizing females as acceptors or rejecters requires repeated observations across their lifespan. This study genotyped adult females whose behavior had been reliably classified over their lifes to test for genetic differences. Results showed significant differences in the genotypic and allelic frequencies at the microsatellite marker MSLp4, which was more common in acceptors. These findings support the hypothesis that a genetic polymorphism contributes to individual variation in egg rejection behavior, a defensive trait that may shift over an individual's lifetime in magpies.},
}

Animals
Female
Microsatellite Repeats/genetics
*Polymorphism, Genetic
Genetic Markers
*Nesting Behavior/physiology
Genotype
*Passeriformes/genetics/physiology
Gene Frequency
*Ovum

@article {pmid40878617,
year = {2025},
author = {Du, Y and Yang, P and Peng, J and Wang, C and Song, S and Chen, J},
title = {To Share or Not to Share: Food Sharing in Wild Azure-Winged Magpie (Cyanopica cyanus).},
journal = {Integrative zoology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/1749-4877.13040},
pmid = {40878617},
issn = {1749-4877},
support = {32070445//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; XZ202501ZY0018//Science and Technology Projects of Xizang Autonomous Region, China/ ; 2021ZD0204101//STI2030-Major Project/ ; },
abstract = {Food sharing is very common in the animal kingdom. Despite extensive research, the mechanisms underlying food sharing remain debated. Moreover, the majority of studies on food sharing in non-human animals have been conducted under controlled environments. The natural behavioral characteristics and ecological factors influencing the natural selection of food sharing are still not well understood. In this study, we introduce a method to examine food-sharing behaviors in wild birds within their natural habitat. Using two types of feeders-one permitting food sharing with conspecifics and the other providing exclusive access to food-along with infrared cameras to record feeder-triggering events, we found that azure-winged magpies did not exhibit proactive food-sharing behaviors. However, they did exhibit passive food-sharing behaviors under conditions of low food availability. Consistent with the harassment-avoidance hypothesis, the birds prioritized the sharing feeders to decrease harassment from food snatching when food was limited. These findings suggest that food sharing is likely shaped into a passive behavioral pattern under limited resources conditions, which induce conflicts within social groups. This context-dependent strategy may effectively reduce harassment costs, optimize individual access to resources to maximize individual benefits, and potentially enhance the survival of other group members.},
}

@article {pmid40872422,
year = {2025},
author = {Li, G and Xue, S and Mu, J and Liu, S and Zhang, Q and Wu, W and Wang, Z and Ma, Z and Diwu, D and Wang, C},
title = {The Multi-Objective Optimization of a Dual C-Type Gold Ribbon Interconnect Structure Considering Its Geometrical Parameter Fluctuation.},
journal = {Micromachines},
volume = {16},
number = {8},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/mi16080914},
pmid = {40872422},
issn = {2072-666X},
support = {52275268 and 52475278//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 2022KXJ-030//The Project about Building up "Scientists + Engineers" of Shaanxi Qinchuangyuan Plat-form/ ; },
abstract = {With the increasing demand for high integration, low cost, and large capacities in satellite systems, integrating the antenna and microwave component into the same system has become appealing to the satellite engineer. The dual C-type gold ribbon, performing as the key electromagnetic signal bridge between the microwave component and the antenna, has a significant impact on the electrical performance of satellite antennas. However, during its manufacturing and operating, the interconnection geometry undergoes deformation due to mounting errors and environmental loads. Consequently, these parasitic geometry parameters can significantly increase energy loss during the signal transmission. To address this issue, this paper has proposed a method for determining the design range of the geometrical parameters of the dual C-type gold ribbon, and applied it to the performance prediction of the microstrip antennas and the parameter optimization of the gold ribbon. In this study, a mechanical response analysis of the antennas in the operating environment has been carried out and the manufacturing disturbance has been considered to calculate the geometry fluctuation range. Then, the significance ranking of the geometry parameters has been determined and the key parameters have been selected. Finally, the chaos feedback adaptive whale optimization algorithm-back propagation neural network has been used as a surrogate model to establish the relationship between the geometry parameters and the antenna electromagnetic performance, and the multi-objective red-billed blue magpie optimization algorithm has been combined with the surrogate model to optimize the configuration parameters. This paper provides theoretical guidance for the interconnection geometry design and the optimization of the integration module of the antennas and microwave components.},
}

@article {pmid40867167,
year = {2025},
author = {Andhare, MS and Vijayan, T and Karthik, B and Urooj, S},
title = {A Novel Optimized Hybrid Deep Learning Framework for Mental Stress Detection Using Electroencephalography.},
journal = {Brain sciences},
volume = {15},
number = {8},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/brainsci15080835},
pmid = {40867167},
issn = {2076-3425},
abstract = {Mental stress is a psychological or emotional strain that typically occurs because of threatening, challenging, and overwhelming conditions and affects human behavior. Various factors, such as professional, environmental, and personal pressures, often trigger it. In recent years, various deep learning (DL)-based schemes using electroencephalograms (EEGs) have been proposed. However, the effectiveness of DL-based schemes is challenging because of the intricate DL structure, class imbalance problems, poor feature representation, low-frequency resolution problems, and complexity of multi-channel signal processing. This paper presents a novel hybrid DL framework, BDDNet, which combines a deep convolutional neural network (DCNN), bidirectional long short-term memory (BiLSTM), and deep belief network (DBN). BDDNet provides superior spectral-temporal feature depiction and better long-term dependency on the local and global features of EEGs. BDDNet accepts multiple EEG features (MEFs) that provide the spectral and time-domain features of EEGs. A novel improved crow search algorithm (ICSA) was presented for channel selection to minimize the computational complexity of multichannel stress detection. Further, the novel employee optimization algorithm (EOA) is utilized for the hyper-parameter optimization of hybrid BDDNet to enhance the training performance. The outcomes of the novel BDDNet were assessed using a public DEAP dataset. The BDDNet-ICSA offers improved recall of 97.6%, precision of 97.6%, F1-score of 97.6%, selectivity of 96.9%, negative predictive value NPV of 96.9%, and accuracy of 97.3% to traditional techniques.},
}

@article {pmid40866624,
year = {2025},
author = {da Silva, JL and Spiridonov, A},
title = {Elisabeth S. Vrba, the "Three Musketeers," and the Expansion of Macroevolutionary Theory.},
journal = {Journal of the history of biology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1007/s10739-025-09828-5},
pmid = {40866624},
issn = {1573-0387},
support = {88881.980947/2024/01//Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior/ ; },
abstract = {Elisabeth S. Vrba (1942-2025) was an important figure in paleobiology and evolutionary theory, leaving an indelible mark on macroevolutionary research. Vrba's collaboration with Stephen Jay Gould led to the introduction of the term "exaptation," refining how evolutionary biologists distinguish between traits originally selected for one function and those later co-opted for another; Gould and Vrba also clarified conceptual issues surrounding species sorting and selection, although they would later disagree on the meanings of species selection. Vrba further advanced, with Niles Eldredge, a hierarchical perspective on evolution, emphasizing cross-level causality. Her contributions to macroevolutionary theory, particularly through hypotheses advanced by herself, for example, the Effect Hypothesis, the Resource-Use Hypothesis and the Mass-Heterochrony Hypothesis, underscored the role of environmental pressures in shaping biodiversity. Vrba's contribution, which advanced and defined the field of macroevolution, is one of rigorous theoretical innovation, and more importantly empirical integrative testing using approaches from community ecology, developmental dynamics, and the paleoclimatology of species turnover patterns at large temporal and spatial scales, influencing not only paleontology but evolutionary biology at large. As we bid farewell to one of the field's most influential thinkers, we recognize the lasting impact of her work on how we understand the history of life. Additionally, we highlight points of harmony and disagreement between Vrba, Gould and Eldredge, which we consider mostly missing from historical literature.},
}

@article {pmid40866418,
year = {2025},
author = {Dong, X},
title = {Predictive analysis of concrete tensile strength using metaheuristic algorithms helping a neural network.},
journal = {Scientific reports},
volume = {15},
number = {1},
pages = {31560},
pmid = {40866418},
issn = {2045-2322},
abstract = {In most construction projects, concrete is a widely used material in different structural elements due to its suitable mechanical behavior. Therefore, it is crucial to achieve a dependable estimation of the concrete mechanical parameters such as tensile strength. In this research, a well-known machine learning model-multi-layer perceptron neural network (MLPNN)-is optimized by multi-tracker optimization algorithm (MTOA) to avoid computational insufficiencies. The model predicts the splitting tensile strength of concrete based on the features of the concrete mixture. For validation, MTOA is compared to multi-verse optimizer (MVO), crow search algorithm (CSA), and backtracking search algorithm (BSA). Primary results showed that all optimized ANNs can reliably understand and predict the tensile strength pattern. However, from accuracy comparison, MTOA-MLPNN > MVO-MLPNN > CSA-MLPNN > BSA-MLPNN, based on respective percentage errors of 10.75, 11.28, 13.70, and 14.58, as well as correlation coefficients of 0.92, 0.90, 0.87, and 0.83. Moreover, the computational cost of the MTOA-MLPNN was found to be lower than the mentioned benchmarks. In addition, this model was validated using 10-fold cross-validation, and also its accuracy surpassed several models from earlier literature. All in all, the hybrid of MTOA-MLPNN created a scientifically novel and efficient predictive framework for the low-cost analysis of concrete tensile strength and mixture design.},
}

@article {pmid40863192,
year = {2025},
author = {Di Blas, L and De Osti, G},
title = {A Multilevel Analysis of Associations Between Children's Coloured Progressive Matrices Performances and Self-Rated Personality: Class-Average and Class-Homogeneity Differences in Nonverbal Intelligence Matter.},
journal = {Journal of Intelligence},
volume = {13},
number = {8},
pages = {},
pmid = {40863192},
issn = {2079-3200},
abstract = {The relationship between self-rated personality and nonverbal intelligence has been studied in young students, but these studies have generally not considered nested data, despite their allowing us to analyse between-classroom variability. The present cross-sectional study involved third- to sixth-grade students (n = 447) who were nested into their classrooms (n = 32). The participants completed the Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices (CPM) as a measure of nonverbal intelligence and a personality questionnaire based on the Five Factor Model. At the class level, the study data included class size, class-average CPM scores, and class-homogeneity in CPM performances. Multilevel modelling with class-mean centring of personality predictors was applied to examine class-average differences in CPM scores and interaction effects between personality and class-homogeneity on CPM scores. The results showed significant differences in average CPM performances across classrooms, significant fixed and random slope effects linking nonverbal intelligence and Imagination, and a cross-level effect revealing that Imagination is a stronger predictor of CPM scores when class-homogeneity in intelligence is lower. Beyond confirming the intelligence-Imagination association generally observed in the literature, the present findings emphasise the importance of using nested structures when collecting personality and intelligence data in classrooms. More attention needs to be paid to how the classroom environment affects children's self-reported personality and intelligence test performances.},
}

@article {pmid40858007,
year = {2025},
author = {Dresow, M},
title = {How the cambrian exploded: Contingency in the history of science and life.},
journal = {Studies in history and philosophy of science},
volume = {113},
number = {},
pages = {34-45},
doi = {10.1016/j.shpsa.2025.08.008},
pmid = {40858007},
issn = {0039-3681},
abstract = {Few scientific terms are as colorful as the "Cambrian explosion": the name given to the rapid increase in animal diversity and abundance between about 540 and 520 million years ago. But for all its popularity, considerable uncertainty surrounds the history of the expression. Discussions of explosive evolution date to the early twentieth century and gained in popularity during the 1940s. Still, these discussions did not emphasize- and many did not even mention- the Cambrian Period, instead focusing on later explosions as a means of characterizing a distinctive mode of evolutionary activity. So how did the Cambrian explosion come to overshadow all other evolutionary explosions to become "the Cambrian explosion"? And how have these developments shaped discussions of the nature and significance of the event? This paper examines these questions, beginning in the nineteenth century and focusing especially on the events of the twentieth century. In doing this it illuminates the contingent history of a term- and a set of ideas- that has played an outsized role in discussions of historical contingency in biology.},
}

@article {pmid40856377,
year = {2025},
author = {Tohyama, T and Fukunaga, M and Otaka, Y},
title = {A connectome-based functional magnetic resonance imaging study of visuospatial analogical reasoning in stroke.},
journal = {European journal of physical and rehabilitation medicine},
volume = {61},
number = {3},
pages = {462-471},
doi = {10.23736/S1973-9087.25.08872-0},
pmid = {40856377},
issn = {1973-9095},
mesh = {Humans ; Male ; Female ; *Stroke/physiopathology/diagnostic imaging/complications/psychology ; *Magnetic Resonance Imaging/methods ; Middle Aged ; *Connectome/methods ; Aged ; Stroke Rehabilitation ; *Space Perception/physiology ; Japan ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Visuospatial function is a core domain of functional cognition in stroke. Post-stroke cognitive impairment disrupts rehabilitation practice, highlighting the importance of characterizing patients with higher-order visuospatial dysfunction to inform personalized rehabilitation strategies. Although neuroimaging offers insights into disease-related mechanisms, its clinical application remains limited.

AIM: The aim of this paper was to investigate whether the residual resting-state functional connectivity supports higher-order visuospatial function after stroke and whether changes in connectivity can characterize patients with visuospatial dysfunction.

DESIGN: Observational study.

SETTING: Inpatient rehabilitation ward at Fujita Health University Hospital in Japan.

POPULATION: Fifty-eight patients with stroke.

METHODS: Visuospatial analogical reasoning was assessed using Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices (RCPM). Resting-state functional connectivity was evaluated using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI). Empirical covariance matrices and group-sparse inverse covariance (GSIC) matrices were computed from the fMRI data, with the latter negated to estimate partial correlations representing direct connectivity. Correlations between connectivity measures and RCPM scores were analyzed, alongside data-driven clustering to stratify patients.

RESULTS: No significant correlation was found between empirical covariance connectivity and RCPM scores. However, GSIC-based analysis revealed a significant inverse correlation between connectivity of the posteromedial and the left inferior parietal cortex and RCPM scores. Higher parietal connectivity was associated with lower RCPM performance. Patients in the highest connectivity cluster exhibited severe impairments in visuospatial analogical reasoning, particularly in tasks requiring the integration of discrete figures into spatially related wholes. The lesions in these patients were predominantly localized in the left subcortex.

CONCLUSIONS: Medio-lateral parietal connectivity may underlie visuospatial analogical reasoning after stroke.

Clustering analysis highlighted a distinct pattern of low scores in patients with increased parietal connectivity, suggesting that parietal connectivity changes have the potential for characterizing patients with severe dysfunction.},
}

Humans
Male
Female
*Stroke/physiopathology/diagnostic imaging/complications/psychology
*Magnetic Resonance Imaging/methods
Middle Aged
*Connectome/methods
Aged
Stroke Rehabilitation
*Space Perception/physiology
Japan

@article {pmid40853924,
year = {2025},
author = {Paz, AAD and Shimizu-Aleixo, D and Oliveira-Wittmann, A and Wittmann, F and Ribeiro, C and Campos, RI},
title = {Plant recruitment six years after the Samarco's tailings-dam disaster: Impacts on species richness and plant growth.},
journal = {PloS one},
volume = {20},
number = {8},
pages = {e0315990},
doi = {10.1371/journal.pone.0315990},
pmid = {40853924},
issn = {1932-6203},
abstract = {One of the greatest tragedies in Brazilian mining history occurred in November 2015 in Mariana, Minas Gerais state, when a dam from the mining company Samarco was breached. Millions of mine tailings from this upstream embankment were dumped over the Doce River basin, impacting an area of approximately 1469 ha of riparian vegetation. Our objective was to experimentally investigate whether plant recruitment and establishment are impaired in areas affected by tailings six years after the deposition. To achieve this goal, in 2021 we compared soil chemical properties between affected and unaffected areas, performed a soil seed bank experiment in controlled conditions, and conducted a greenhouse growth experiment using the two most abundant plant species. Affected soils presented lower fertility and organic matter content. At the same time, the mean abundance and richness of emerging plants did not differ between soils. Still, affected areas exhibited approximately 35% lower accumulated species richness (gamma diversity) than unaffected ones. The three most abundant species in both areas represented 34% of the individuals, being Marsypianthes chamaedrys (Vahl) Kuntze, Ludwigia octovalvis (Jacq.) P.H. Raven and Ageratum conyzoides L. In the growth experiment, plants growing in affected soils presented reduced height and stem diameter increment (L. octovalvis) or allocated fewer resources to root production than aerial parts (M. chamaedrys), potentially in response to soil infertility and density. Even after six years, our results showed that tailings-affected areas continue to experience negative impacts on plant recruitment, highlighting its adverse effects on ecosystem functions and services.},
}

@article {pmid40849595,
year = {2025},
author = {Jiguet, F and Gantin, C},
title = {Fission-fusion dynamics and spring movements in first-year carrion crows Corvus corone challenge the efficiency of culling strategies.},
journal = {Scientific reports},
volume = {15},
number = {1},
pages = {31068},
pmid = {40849595},
issn = {2045-2322},
support = {ESOD//Ministère de la Transition écologique et Solidaire/ ; },
abstract = {This study investigates the spatial behaviour and social dynamics of immature carrion crows (Corvus corone) caught in Paris, with the objective of discussing the efficiency of current culling strategies used to mitigate crop damage. Using GPS tracking data from 80 first-year crows of four different cohorts, we characterized seasonal variations in movement, roosting behaviour, and fission-fusion spatial dynamics. Results show that young crows remain closely associated with their natal sites until March of the year following hatching, after which they disperse to urban, peri-urban and rural areas, particularly in April and May, with peak daily movement distances averaging 2.7 km. This period coincides with the sowing of sensitive crops such as maize and sunflower, during which culling campaigns are often conducted. Furthermore, we document fission-fusion dynamics, with fluid group associations centred around predictable anthropogenic food sources and communal roosts, certainly facilitating repeated interactions and social learning. These findings suggest that current culling practices, largely targeting transient juveniles, are unlikely to achieve long-term reductions in population size or crop damage. Instead, the study highlights the importance of addressing particularly anthropogenic food availability as a potentially more effective and ethical strategy for managing urban, peri-urban and even rural crow populations.},
}

@article {pmid40848091,
year = {2025},
author = {Dong, Y and Fan, S and He, S and Zhao, W and Lancuo, Z and Sharshov, K and Li, Y and Wang, W},
title = {RNA-viromics unveils diverse RNA viral communities in Large-billed crows and Northern Ravens.},
journal = {Virus genes},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {40848091},
issn = {1572-994X},
support = {grant No. 32111530018//the National Natural Science Foundation of China and Russian Foundation for Basic Research Cooperative Exchange Project/ ; grant No. 2022-HZ-812//program of science and technology international cooperation project of Qinghai province/ ; },
abstract = {Birds have historically served as key vectors for viruses causing significant diseases. Corvid birds, often living in close proximity to livestock, poultry, and humans, provide substantial opportunities for cross-species viral transmission. Such transmission can occur through their feces or via ectoparasites (such as ticks, mites, and fleas) on their bodies, thereby releasing viruses into the environment. Despite the development of viral metagenomics, an increasing number of RNA viruses are being characterized across different species. RNA viruses in birds' gut microbial communities remain poorly studied. Here we report an extensive analysis of an RNA virome in fecal samples from Large-billed crows (Corvus macrorhynchos) and Northern Ravens (Corvus corax), both of which are common Corvus species found in the high-altitude forest and grassland regions of the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau. This study aims to assess the RNA viruses present in the intestines of these corvids and provides the first comprehensive characterization of the diversity of gut-colonizing viruses in these two crow species.},
}

@article {pmid40834275,
year = {2025},
author = {Green, JP and Elkins, G},
title = {An Introduction to the Special Issue Honoring Steven Jay Lynn.},
journal = {The International journal of clinical and experimental hypnosis},
volume = {73},
number = {3},
pages = {225-229},
doi = {10.1080/00207144.2025.2536450},
pmid = {40834275},
issn = {1744-5183},
mesh = {*Hypnosis/history ; History, 20th Century ; History, 21st Century ; Humans ; },
abstract = {This issue of the International Journal of Clinical and Experimental Hypnosis includes a collection of articles in honor of Dr. Steven Jay Lynn. Dr. Lynn passed away on March 29, 2024; however, his impact on the field of hypnosis and psychology continues through his many students, colleagues, and publications of over 500 published works, including 23 books. Dr. Lynn's enormous work covers a wide range of areas including: evidence-based psychotherapy; the treatment of psychological disorders; critical thinking and scientific inquiry; theories of hypnosis; clinical and forensic applications of hypnosis; memory, dissociation, and suggestibility; and, mindfulness and other mind-body approaches. Readers will find this special issue also covers a range of fascinating topics reflective of Dr. Lynn's work.},
}

*Hypnosis/history
History, 20th Century
History, 21st Century
Humans

@article {pmid40833622,
year = {2025},
author = {Wascher, CAF and Youngblood, M},
title = {Correction: Vocal efficiency in crows.},
journal = {Animal cognition},
volume = {28},
number = {1},
pages = {79},
doi = {10.1007/s10071-025-02001-9},
pmid = {40833622},
issn = {1435-9456},
}

@article {pmid40829650,
year = {2025},
author = {Arbon, JJ and Truskanov, N and Stott, E and McIvor, GE and Thornton, A},
title = {Wild jackdaws learn to tolerate juveniles to exploit new foraging opportunities.},
journal = {Biology letters},
volume = {21},
number = {8},
pages = {20250179},
doi = {10.1098/rsbl.2025.0179},
pmid = {40829650},
issn = {1744-957X},
support = {//Leverhulme Trust/ ; /BB_/Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council/United Kingdom ; //Schweizerischer Nationalfonds zur Förderung der Wissenschaftlichen Forschung/ ; },
mesh = {Animals ; *Feeding Behavior ; *Learning ; *Crows/physiology ; Social Behavior ; Female ; Male ; },
abstract = {Social tolerance can enhance access to resources and is thought to be crucial in facilitating the evolution of cooperation, social cognition and culture, but it is unknown whether animals can optimize their social tolerance through learning. We presented wild jackdaws (Corvus monedula) with a novel social information problem using automated feeders. Juveniles could always feed (simulating a situation where juveniles were sources of information about a new resource) but adults could only access food if they inhibited their tendency to displace juveniles and instead showed tolerance by occupying an adjacent feeder perch. Accordingly, adults learned to tolerate juveniles, with some evidence they generalized across juveniles as a cohort. The ability to learn to tolerate sources of valuable information, and generalize across cohorts of informed individuals, may facilitate adaptive responses in the face of environmental change and help to explain the success of jackdaws in human-dominated environments.},
}

Animals
*Feeding Behavior
*Learning
*Crows/physiology
Social Behavior
Female
Male

@article {pmid40829649,
year = {2025},
author = {Garcia-Pelegrin, E},
title = {Task affordances shape hornbills' problem-solving strategies.},
journal = {Biology letters},
volume = {21},
number = {8},
pages = {20250271},
doi = {10.1098/rsbl.2025.0271},
pmid = {40829649},
issn = {1744-957X},
mesh = {Animals ; *Problem Solving ; Male ; Female ; *Passeriformes/physiology/anatomy & histology ; Behavior, Animal ; },
abstract = {Innovative problem-solving in birds has traditionally focused on corvids and parrots, but growing evidence shows that many other bird species are also capable of such feats. The vertical string-pulling paradigm, a hallmark test of avian cognition, requires birds to retrieve suspended food by incrementally pulling the string with their bill while securing it with their foot, demonstrating sensorimotor flexibility and the capacity to perceive some of the task's properties. However, Oriental pied hornbills (Anthracoceros albirostris) present an interesting case due to their distinctive foot morphology; their fused proximal phalanges may limit their ability to employ the typical foot assisted string-pulling technique used by other birds. In this study, six hornbills were presented with two string-pulling tasks, each requiring a different approach. Despite their anatomical constraints, five birds solved both problems on their first encounter, with average solution times under 18 s. Strikingly, individuals immediately deployed distinct and appropriate strategies: vigorous shaking to dislodge unsecured rewards and coordinated bill-and-tongue manipulation for secured ones. These rapid, flexible responses suggest that hornbills are highly sensitive to task properties and capable of adjusting their behaviour based on both environmental structure and their own morphology.},
}

Animals
*Problem Solving
Male
Female
*Passeriformes/physiology/anatomy & histology
Behavior, Animal

@article {pmid40828075,
year = {2025},
author = {Wong, K},
title = {Humans Are Not So Special After All: Whales mourn, magpies exhibit self-awareness, and Venus flytraps make memories.},
journal = {Scientific American},
volume = {333},
number = {2},
pages = {52},
doi = {10.1038/scientificamerican092025-6lSyysU5dnLuFG5C8LM6te},
pmid = {40828075},
issn = {0036-8733},
}

@article {pmid24688856,
year = {2014},
author = {Plotnik, JM and de Waal, FB},
title = {Asian elephants (Elephas maximus) reassure others in distress.},
journal = {PeerJ},
volume = {2},
number = {},
pages = {e278},
pmid = {24688856},
issn = {2167-8359},
support = {P51 OD011132/OD/NIH HHS/United States ; },
abstract = {Contact directed by uninvolved bystanders toward others in distress, often termed consolation, is uncommon in the animal kingdom, thus far only demonstrated in the great apes, canines, and corvids. Whereas the typical agonistic context of such contact is relatively rare within natural elephant families, other causes of distress may trigger similar, other-regarding responses. In a study carried out at an elephant camp in Thailand, we found that elephants affiliated significantly more with other individuals through directed, physical contact and vocal communication following a distress event than in control periods. In addition, bystanders affiliated with each other, and matched the behavior and emotional state of the first distressed individual, suggesting emotional contagion. The initial distress responses were overwhelmingly directed toward ambiguous stimuli, thus making it difficult to determine if bystanders reacted to the distressed individual or showed a delayed response to the same stimulus. Nonetheless, the directionality of the contacts and their nature strongly suggest attention toward the emotional states of conspecifics. The elephants' behavior is therefore best classified with similar consolation responses by apes, possibly based on convergent evolution of empathic capacities.},
}

@article {pmid16397201,
year = {2006},
author = {Dwyer, E},
title = {Psychiatry and race during World War II.},
journal = {Journal of the history of medicine and allied sciences},
volume = {61},
number = {2},
pages = {117-143},
doi = {10.1093/jhmas/jrj035},
pmid = {16397201},
issn = {0022-5045},
mesh = {Black or African American/*psychology ; Combat Disorders/ethnology/*history/therapy ; Health Services Needs and Demand ; History, 20th Century ; Humans ; *Mental Health Services ; Military Personnel/*psychology ; Military Psychiatry/*history ; *Prejudice ; United States ; White People/*psychology ; *World War II ; },
abstract = {Although the American literature on "war neuroses" expanded during World War II, psychiatrists remained more interested in dramatic instances of "combat fatigue" than in the problems of soldiers who broke down far from the field of battle. This bias in the medical literature shaped both diagnosis and treatment. It had an especially powerful effect on African American soldiers who, in the "Jim Crow" army of World War II, were assigned in disproportionate numbers to service units. When military neuropsychiatrists did write about troubled young African Americans, many revealed a racial conservatism that was surprising given the liberal environmentalist paradigm of the day. (Here, a particularly useful source is the two-volume history of Neuropsychiatry in World War II, produced by the Medical Department of the U.S. Army.) The major challenge to such views came from the National Medical Association (NMA). Despite its many criticisms of military medicine, the NMA argued that African American soldiers and veterans needed more, not fewer, psychiatric services. NMA members also joined their white counterparts in the campaign to diminish the stigma of mental illness, especially among the families of soldiers returning home. We need more investigation of the subsequent history of race and psychiatry, especially within the Veterans Administration.},
}

Black or African American/*psychology
Combat Disorders/ethnology/*history/therapy
Health Services Needs and Demand
History, 20th Century
Humans
*Mental Health Services
Military Personnel/*psychology
Military Psychiatry/*history
*Prejudice
United States
White People/*psychology
*World War II

@article {pmid40816474,
year = {2025},
author = {Hassaneen, RK and Mobarak, YM and El-Baz, LMF and Farouk, H and Sharaf, H and Hafez, HS},
title = {Short- and long-term captivity impacts on bird memory, corticosterone level, and oxidative stress genes: Perspectives on deep learning analysis.},
journal = {Physiology & behavior},
volume = {301},
number = {},
pages = {115064},
doi = {10.1016/j.physbeh.2025.115064},
pmid = {40816474},
issn = {1873-507X},
abstract = {Captivity can harm birds' behavior despite receiving care. The effects of captivity on birds' brain function have not been well studied. This study examined the effects of one-day and seven-day captivity stress on corticosterone levels, memory through novel object and place recognition, and Nrf2, cyclin D, and BMP4 gene expression as inflammatory indicators in hooded crows (Corvus cornix), common mynas (Acridotheres tristis), and cattle egrets (Bubulcus ibis). Developing a deep learning analysis to monitor birds' head, leg, wing, and tail movements during novel object and place recognition enhances understanding of avian behavior, cognition, and response, which were assessed using the VGG16 neural network on video footage. Monitoring the head, legs, wings, and tail movements of birds during novel object recognition enhances the understanding of avian visual processing and cognitive abilities, providing insights into environmental interactions. The novelty index showed negative values for novel object detection in the three bird species during captivity, suggesting impaired identification. Corticosterone levels were significantly elevated after 30 min of captivity (P< 0.05) and stabilized by the end of the first day of captivity. Additionally, the gene expression of Nrf2, cyclin D, and BMP4 in the Wulst region was measured using qRT-PCR, which revealed variable responses among the bird species and genes with downregulation of neuroprotection and plasticity gene Nrf2 in seven days of captivity. Birds in long-term captivity during novel object detection showed reduced exploration and poorer cognitive performance. Deep learning was used to identify bird organ use during exploration behavior. Both captivity conditions negatively impacted avian behavior, affecting novel object identification.},
}

@article {pmid40814769,
year = {2025},
author = {Neves, MLBB and Thome, C and da Silva Junior, SV and Machado, T and Sánchez-Ayala, A and Câmara-Souza, MB and De la Torre Canales, G},
title = {Efficacy and Durability of the Association of Botox and Skinvive in the Treatment of Moderate/Severe Wrinkles in the Periorbital Region: A Randomized, Controlled, Double-Blind, Split-Face Clinical Study.},
journal = {Journal of cosmetic dermatology},
volume = {24},
number = {8},
pages = {e70403},
pmid = {40814769},
issn = {1473-2165},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The combined efficacy and durability of botulinum toxin A (BTX) and hyaluronic acid fillers (HA) for canthal wrinkles have not been thoroughly evaluated in randomized clinical trials.

AIMS: This study evaluated the efficacy, safety, and durability of the combined treatment protocol of onabotulinumtoxinA and Juvederm Volite VYC-12 (Skinvive) for moderate and severe canthal lines.

METHODS: This randomized double-blinded split-face trial included 25 women with periorbital dynamic wrinkles at severity levels II-IV according to the Merz 5-point scale. After bilateral onabotulinummtoxinA injections, the sides of the participants' faces were randomized to receive HA injections or a simulated injection. Assessed variables included electromyography activity (EMG), Merz 5-point crow's feet scale, and FACE-Q appraisal on crow's feet lines. Assessments were performed at baseline, 1, 2, 3, and 6 months. For differences in EMG and satisfaction scores, the two-way repeated measures ANOVA and Bonferroni's post hoc analyses were conducted. Wrinkle severity scores were analyzed with the Mann-Whitney U test.

RESULTS: Inter-treatment comparisons revealed no significant differences between treatment protocols in all assessed periods for EMG (p = 0.86). For severity of canthal wrinkles, onabotulinumtoxinA + VYC-12 exhibited lower canthal wrinkle severity in rest and contracted positions after 3 (p = 0.04), and 3 (p = 0.007) and 6 (p = 0.001) months, respectively. Additionally, satisfaction with BTX-HA treatment was significantly higher after 3-month (p = 0.001) and 6-month (p = 0.001) follow-ups compared to BTX treatment.

CONCLUSIONS: Higher improvements in canthal wrinkles could be enhanced by using onabotulinumtoxinA and VYC-12 in association as a treatment protocol.},
}

@article {pmid40813886,
year = {2025},
author = {Khadidos, AO and Yafoz, A},
title = {An intelligent object detection and classification framework for assisting visually challenged persons using deep learning and improved crow search optimization.},
journal = {Scientific reports},
volume = {15},
number = {1},
pages = {29822},
pmid = {40813886},
issn = {2045-2322},
support = {KSRG-2024-070//King Salman Center for Disability Research/ ; },
abstract = {According to an estimation, one billion persons are experiencing disabilities, so assistive technologies are developed, enhancing independence and accessibility. Significant developments have been made in assisting disabled people. Object detection (OD) and classification systems are effective computer technologies for image processing and computer vision (CV). It is mainly used to identify and describe objects such as vehicles, individuals, and animals from digital videos and images, which will be useful for older or disabled persons. Deep learning (DL) models demonstrate to be more expert in resolving OD defects. However, DL techniques are extensively utilized to perceive, track, and identify in real-time objects met during navigation in an indoor environment. This study proposes a Hybrid DL Model for Object Detection and Classification Using an Improved Crow Search Algorithm (HDLMODC-ICSA) method. The HDLMODC-ICSA method primarily focuses on an accurate and real-time object recognition method to assist visually challenged persons. In the initial stage, the image pre-processing stage utilizes median filtering (MF) to remove noise or distortions and make the image more transparent. Furthermore, the OD process employs the Faster R-CNN model to generate precise region proposals and detect objects within images efficiently. Moreover, the HDLMODC-ICSA technique employs the Improved LeNet-5 model to extract meaningful and discriminative features from the identified regions. The hybrid of the attention-based stacked bi-directional long short-term memory (ABS-Bi-LSTM) technique is used for OD and classification. Finally, the hyperparameter selection of the ABS-BiLSTM model is performed by implementing the improved crow search algorithm (ICSA) model. The efficiency of the HDLMODC-ICSA approach is validated by comprehensive studies using the Indoor objects detection dataset. The comparison study of the HDLMODC-ICSA approach demonstrated a superior accuracy value of 99.59% over existing techniques.},
}

@article {pmid40809830,
year = {2025},
author = {Proctor, TL and Fatungase, F and Barquero Leiva, JA and Javier, F and Durr, CE and Paladino, FV},
title = {Tiny Patch, Big Value: A Small Dry Forest Patch Supports Wildlife Conservation in Guanacaste, Costa Rica.},
journal = {Ecology and evolution},
volume = {15},
number = {8},
pages = {e71972},
pmid = {40809830},
issn = {2045-7758},
abstract = {Tropical dry forests are among the most threatened tropical ecosystems due to ongoing agricultural expansion and development. Despite this, small forest patches persist within fragmented landscapes, though their conservation value remains poorly understood. To evaluate the role of one such patch in supporting wildlife, we deployed camera traps across three zones (Dense Forest, Grassland, and Sparse Forest) within the Murren Reserve, a small dry forest patch on the southern coastline of Guanacaste, Costa Rica. Camera traps detected 16 vertebrate species, with opportunistic encounters adding 16 more. The most detected species included the white-nosed coati (Nasua narica), raccoon (Procyon lotor), and white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus). Additionally, we recorded nationally endangered species, including the ocelot (Leopardus pardalis), puma (Puma concolor), and mantled howler monkey (Alouatta palliata), as well as nationally threatened species such as the spotted skunk (Spilogale angustifrons) and white-throated magpie-jay (Calocitta formosa). Extrapolated rarefaction curves suggest that further sampling could improve species richness estimates for the Dense Forest and Grassland. Although we did not detect a difference in species composition among zones (ANOSIM, R = 0.14, p = 0.26), a generalized linear mixed model indicated that zone explained 17% of the variation in species richness. These findings highlight the role that small dry forest patches play in conserving both threatened species and broader vertebrate communities. We also provide recommendations for future research to address current data gaps and improve long-term monitoring in fragmented landscapes.},
}

@article {pmid40807968,
year = {2025},
author = {Badawy, TR and Ziedan, NI},
title = {Optimized Intelligent Localization Through Mathematical Modeling and Crow Search Algorithms.},
journal = {Sensors (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {25},
number = {15},
pages = {},
pmid = {40807968},
issn = {1424-8220},
abstract = {Localization has emerged as a critical problem over the past decades, with diverse techniques developed to address robot and mobile localization challenges across varied domains. However, existing localization methods still fall short of achieving the precision needed for certain high-demand applications. The proposed algorithm is designed to enhance localization accuracy by integrating mathematical modeling with the Crow Search Algorithm (CSA). The objective is to identify the most probable position within a designated search space. Anchored by a network of fixed points, the search area is initially defined. A mathematical approach is then applied to reduce this area by calculating the intersections between circles centered at each anchor point. Within this reduced area, an array of candidate points are selected, and their centroid is computed to serve as an initial estimate. The modified CSA iteratively improves upon this estimate by emulating the natural behavior of crows, updating its variables to converge on the optimal position. Experimental evaluations, conducted on both real and simulated datasets, demonstrate that the proposed algorithm leads to a better localization accuracy than existing methods. The proposed methodology achieves a significant accuracy improvement with an accuracy of 98%. These results confirm the effectiveness of our approach for applications that require high precision with minimal infrastructure and low computational complexity.},
}

@article {pmid40802067,
year = {2025},
author = {Bennett, AJ and Watson, DM and Watson, MJ},
title = {Positive and negative impacts of electrical infrastructure on animal biodiversity: A systematic review.},
journal = {Oecologia},
volume = {207},
number = {9},
pages = {142},
pmid = {40802067},
issn = {1432-1939},
abstract = {Electrical infrastructure networks are predicted to greatly expand in response to the expected 48% increase in global energy demand by 2040. While assessments of electrical infrastructure are abundant, mixed effects on animal diversity have been reported, warranting further evaluation to determine true effects. We conducted a systematic literature review covering individual, population, and community-level assessments to determine the impacts posed to animal biodiversity by electrical infrastructure and the measures to reduce impacts. Our results show that the literature around electrical infrastructure and animal biodiversity has grown exponentially since the start of the millennium and is biased towards birds and mammals in economically developed countries. We found the majority of reported impacts were negative, occurring primarily through barrier effects (collision) and use of linear features as a resource (electrocution), causing significant population impacts in select species. However, we also found that electrical infrastructure provided positive effects (increased habitat provisioning) to certain taxonomic groups (e.g. corvids, storks), which suggests the potential to encourage conservation efforts using appropriate mitigation on electrical infrastructure. We found the majority of current literature detailed mitigation measures focused on reducing collisions through line (51%) and tower alterations (30%), but often omitted the impacts of EMF, noise, and UV, indicating significant knowledge gaps. On a wider scale, we found that mortality from electrical infrastructure ranked lower than building collisions and predation from feral cats, but remained higher than other anthropogenic energy sources, indicating the potential to cause significant impacts to large-bodied bird species if not addressed.},
}

@article {pmid40796618,
year = {2025},
author = {Chae, S and Hwang, J and Choe, JC and Jablonski, PG and Lee, SI and Kim, J},
title = {Empirical evidence for the functional benefit of intra-specific wing shape variation in a sedentary bird, the Oriental Magpie (Pica serica).},
journal = {Scientific reports},
volume = {15},
number = {1},
pages = {29495},
pmid = {40796618},
issn = {2045-2322},
support = {22-BRP-03//Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology/ ; 2023R1A2C1005420//National Research Foundation of Korea/ ; },
abstract = {This study investigates the intraspecific variation in wingtip shape and its effects on aerodynamic forces and flight capabilities with the Oriental Magpies as a model species. Characterized by short and rounded wings, Oriental Magpies are highly sedentary and exhibit wingtip shape variations between juveniles and adults, as well as between males and females due to physiological changes during breeding. Analysis of 115 individuals revealed a significant interaction between sex and age in the location of the wingtip, with adult females exhibiting wings with backward-shifted wingtips than other sex and age categories. In order to examine the functional aspect of this pattern of variation, we conducted wind tunnel experiments and measured the aerodynamic performances of three wings by varying the position of wingtip from forward to backward. The results show that wings with backward-shifted wingtips have higher lift coefficient compared to wings with forward-shifted wingtips, especially at low free-stream velocities. Our findings suggest that wings with backward-shifted wingtips enhance maneuverability during both turning- and straight-flight conditions, particularly during slow gliding flight. We hypothesize that aerodynamic benefits of the backward-shifted wingtips are more important for adult females, who has increased body weight with center of mass shifted to rear part of the body due to fully developed reproductive organs including eggs and follicles. Our results suggest that age- and sex-dependent wingtip shape change can be fine-tuned according to intraspecific variation in the ecological requirements of the individuals.},
}

@article {pmid40784037,
year = {2025},
author = {Jones, J and Lee, J and Douglas, A and Akinkuotu, A and Romain, C},
title = {Representation matters: advocating for increased diversity in the pediatric surgical workforce to address health inequity.},
journal = {Seminars in pediatric surgery},
volume = {35},
number = {},
pages = {151521},
doi = {10.1016/j.sempedsurg.2025.151521},
pmid = {40784037},
issn = {1532-9453},
abstract = {Equitable health is the state in which all have the opportunity to attain full health potential and no disadvantage from achieving this because of social position or another socially defined circumstance [1]. One measure of society is marked by how vulnerable populations, like children, are treated, including the right to achieve and access good health. Focusing on health equity helps to address the social determinants of health which can adversely affect pediatric care and threatens surgical outcomes for the most vulnerable children in society [1-5]. Inextricable from attaining health equity is a surgical workforce that adequately represents the populations they serve. Pediatric surgery, like many surgical subspecialties, has fallen short in its goal of achieving equitable gender and ethnic representation at the fellowship, faculty, and leadership level [6-8]. Racial physician-patient discordance has been suggested as a mechanism that perpetuates health inequities within the minority pediatric populations [9-15]. Underrepresentation in pediatric surgery, and more broadly medicine can be attributed to both historical and present-day racism conjoined with high barriers to entry in our field [16-28]. The impact of chattel slavery, Jim Crow laws, federally sponsored residential segregation, mass incarceration, and ongoing systematic disinvestment, reverberates and perpetuates the paucity of representation. To address this issue requires a multi-faceted approach [29-33]. Pathway programs have been deployed in many contexts to provide mentorship and exposure to medical careers [2, 35-40]. But these avenues alone are insufficient. Advocacy is necessary to address systemic inequities in early childhood education where pathways to careers in medicine, including pediatric surgery, are significantly threatened.},
}

@article {pmid40777419,
year = {2025},
author = {Summers, J and Jones, BSCL and Cosgrove, EJ and Bakley, TD and Barve, S and Bowman, R and Fitzpatrick, JW and Chen, N},
title = {Context-Dependent Fitness Outcomes of Helping in the Cooperatively-Breeding Florida Scrub-Jay (Aphelocoma coerulescens).},
journal = {bioRxiv : the preprint server for biology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1101/2025.07.21.666021},
pmid = {40777419},
issn = {2692-8205},
abstract = {Cooperatively breeding species frequently live in family groups of related individuals, with helpers delaying their own reproduction and participating in alloparental care, predator vigilance, and territory defense. It remains challenging to disentangle the roles of the indirect fitness benefits of helping kin and the potential direct fitness benefits helpers receive in the evolution of cooperative breeding. While many studies test for associations between helper relatedness and helping effort, few estimate the realized fitness consequences of helping in relation to these factors. Understanding these fitness outcomes elucidates the selective forces that maintain helping behavior, whether through inclusive fitness gains by helping related individuals or as a means of gaining access to later direct fitness benefits. Using 29 years of extensive demographic data from a closely monitored population of Florida scrub-jays (Aphelocoma coerulescens), we quantified the effect of helpers on breeder survival, offspring survival, and nestling production and how these effects depend on relatedness and sex of helpers. We found that female breeder survival was significantly greater when more helpers were present and that offspring survival was greater when more male helpers were present on small territories. Neither effect of helpers depended on the relatedness between helpers and the individuals they helped. Our results suggest that helping behavior is highly context-dependent and varies based on the potential impact of helping and the direct fitness benefits helpers receive.},
}

@article {pmid40777180,
year = {2025},
author = {Rahman, A and Rao, M and Aldughpassi, A and Jallad, R and Shaban, L},
title = {Blood levels of copper, manganese, selenium, and zinc are positively associated with cognitive function and academic performance in adolescents.},
journal = {Frontiers in nutrition},
volume = {12},
number = {},
pages = {1638283},
pmid = {40777180},
issn = {2296-861X},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Microminerals copper (Cu), manganese (Mn), selenium (Se), and zinc (Zn) regulate neuronal signaling and brain function. Deficiencies of these minerals are common in adolescents due to unhealthy eating habits. We investigated the association between micromineral levels and cognitive function and academic performance in a nationally representative sample of adolescents.

METHODS: Adolescents (N = 1,370; 11-14 years) were selected from public middle schools in Kuwait, using cluster random sampling. Data on various covariates were collected through a questionnaire from the subjects and their parents. Blood micromineral levels were determined using Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS). Cognitive function was evaluated through the Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices test and academic performance data were taken from the school records.

RESULTS: Median (IQR) blood levels of microminerals (μg/dL) were as follows: Cu, 22.5 (15.2, 33.0); Mn, 6.0 (3.5, 10.6); Se, 34.2 (22.1, 52.5); Zn, 163.5 (118.5, 233.5). On average, SPM score was higher by 5 points in adolescents with mineral levels above the median, compared to those with levels below median (p < 0.05). Academic performance in adolescents with micromineral levels in Q1 was lower by an average of seven-percentage points compared to those in Q4 (p < 0.01). Multivariable regression analysis showed positive association (p < 0.01) with both cognitive function and academic performance, whether the micromineral levels were used as continuous variable or as quartiles.

CONCLUSION: In this cohort, blood micromineral levels are positively associated with cognitive function and academic performance. Improving micromineral status by public health intervention is strongly warranted, as academic performance during early-life education has implications on the later-life socio-economic status.},
}

@article {pmid40765475,
year = {2025},
author = {Yang, F and Guo, M and Zhu, J and Wang, H},
title = {Clinical Evaluation of a Multi-Component Facial Mask for Moisturizing, Repairing, and Anti-Aging Effects.},
journal = {Journal of cosmetic dermatology},
volume = {24},
number = {8},
pages = {e70355},
pmid = {40765475},
issn = {1473-2165},
mesh = {Humans ; *Skin Aging/drug effects ; Female ; Water Loss, Insensible/drug effects ; Adult ; Middle Aged ; Elasticity ; Face ; *Masks ; *Skin Care/instrumentation/methods ; Male ; Skin/diagnostic imaging/drug effects ; Rejuvenation ; *Cosmetic Techniques/instrumentation ; Treatment Outcome ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Facial masks are commonly used in skincare for targeted and intensive treatment. However, masks that provide only moisturizing benefits have limited functionality and may not adequately meet comprehensive anti-aging needs.

OBJECTIVES: To design and evaluate the efficacy of a multi-component facial mask for moisturizing, repairing, and anti-aging effects.

METHODS: The clinical efficacy of the facial mask was evaluated in a 28-day study, with skin parameters measured immediately after application, and at 14 and 28 days. Skin hydration and transepidermal water loss (TEWL) were measured using a Corneometer and a Vapometer, respectively. Skin elasticity and firmness were assessed using a Cutometer. Facial photographs were captured using the VISIA CR system, and wrinkles and roughness were analyzed with Antera 3D.

RESULTS: Immediate and 28-day assessments revealed significant improvements in skin hydration and reduced TEWL (p < 0.001). After 28-day use, skin elasticity and firmness increased by 17.31% and 16.18%, respectively. VISIA CR analysis demonstrated enhanced skin gloss and decreased redness. Antera 3D measurements indicated significant reductions in the length and width of under-eye wrinkles and crow's feet, along with improved skin texture (p < 0.001). Participant self-assessments reported high satisfaction with the mask's safety and efficacy, both in the short term and long term.

CONCLUSION: The multi-component facial mask demonstrated significant efficacy in enhancing skin hydration, improving barrier repair, and providing anti-aging benefits.},
}

Humans
*Skin Aging/drug effects
Female
Water Loss, Insensible/drug effects
Adult
Middle Aged
Elasticity
Face
*Masks
*Skin Care/instrumentation/methods
Male
Skin/diagnostic imaging/drug effects
Rejuvenation
*Cosmetic Techniques/instrumentation
Treatment Outcome

@article {pmid40764895,
year = {2025},
author = {Bohnert, M and Heinsen, H and Mittal, P and Bohnert, S},
title = {Macroscopic findings of the skull and brain in fire fatalities - an update.},
journal = {Forensic science, medicine, and pathology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {40764895},
issn = {1556-2891},
abstract = {On the skull, the best known and most frequently observed autopsy findings are the heat fractures of the skull and the burn hematoma. The macromorphological changes of the brain have been described comparatively less frequently in the primary and secondary literature. We have evaluated the fire deaths of our institute over a period of 10 years with regard to the macromorphological changes of the skull and brain and described four stages (0-III) after postmortem fireexposure. In stage 0, the scalp showed up to third-degree burns, but the skull and brain were not affected. In stage I, in which the scalp showed fourth degree burns but the skull was still completely intact and unbroken, a certain hardening of the brain and a paling of the lateral parts of the temporal lobes, in particular, could already be regularly observed. In stage II, the head skin was burned away, and the skull was charred but still closed. There was a noticeable shrinkage of the dura mater, which was often torn. The brain itself appeared shrunken, pale and showed a flattening of the convolutions and a spreading of the furrows. In stage III, the skull was opened, charred to calcified and broken in clods. Tears in the dura mater led to herniation of brain tissue to the outside. The aim of this study was to classify the macromorphological changes of the skull and brain after fire exposure, both chronologically and according to their severity. The proposed staged classification (0-III) is intended to summarize the findings and to update and complement the descriptions in the older literature. It can be seen as an extension and further development of the Crow-Glassman scale, which classifies the extent of fire destruction of human bodies.},
}

@article {pmid40763797,
year = {2025},
author = {Reynolds, A},
title = {Topological interactions account for border dynamics of murmurations and transit flocks.},
journal = {Journal of the Royal Society, Interface},
volume = {22},
number = {229},
pages = {20250020},
pmid = {40763797},
issn = {1742-5662},
support = {//SCP/ ; /BB_/Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council/United Kingdom ; //Smart/ ; },
mesh = {Animals ; *Models, Biological ; *Behavior, Animal/physiology ; Stochastic Processes ; },
abstract = {Murmurations are one of nature's most striking examples of collective behaviour. Despite extensive research the dynamics of individuals at the borders of these flocks remain poorly understood. These dynamics result in two unexplained phenomena: the tendency of birds to remain longer at the border than the way internal birds keep their position inside the flock; and the hardness (sharpness) of the borders. It has been suggested that the border dynamics can be attributed to selection pressures for advantageous behaviours such as prey evasion. Here with the aid of stochastic models we show that the observed border dynamics are an accidental but potentially advantageous by-product of topological interactions (when birds interact with a fixed number of neighbours) and that they do not arise with metric interactions (when birds coordinate with neighbours based on spatial distance). I find support for these predictions in an analysis of pre-existing telemetry data for flocks of jackdaws (Corvus monedula).},
}

Animals
*Models, Biological
*Behavior, Animal/physiology
Stochastic Processes

@article {pmid40763283,
year = {2025},
author = {Han, L and Yang, K and Ming, Y and Tang, J},
title = {PDCSA: A parallel discrete crow search algorithm for influence maximization in social networks.},
journal = {PloS one},
volume = {20},
number = {8},
pages = {e0329350},
pmid = {40763283},
issn = {1932-6203},
mesh = {*Algorithms ; Humans ; *Social Networking ; Models, Theoretical ; },
abstract = {The essence of the influence maximization (IM) problem is how to identify the set of seed nodes so that the node numbers ultimately affected in the network reach the maximum under a certain spreading model. In the field of influence maximization research, the investigation of seed nodes identifying algorithms is a hot yet challenging work. Although conventional greedy algorithms and heuristic algorithms have high performance, their efficiency remains a challenge when applied to large-scale social networks. In recent years, swarm intelligence-based optimization algorithms have seen increasing application in addressing this problem, with notable improvements in performance. However, the efficiency of these swarm intelligence-based algorithms still needs to be improved in large-scale social networks. Based on this issue, a parallel discrete crow search algorithm (PDCSA) designed for parallel computing is proposed. Based on the evolution characteristics, PDCSA makes full use of the efficiency advantage of parallel computing to improve the time efficiency of solving IM problems.The results of experiments conducted on six datasets show that PDCSA achieves performance comparable to state-of-the-art algorithms, with the added advantages of high efficiency and robustness.},
}

*Algorithms
Humans
*Social Networking
Models, Theoretical

@article {pmid40761836,
year = {2025},
author = {Gutierrez, JC and Nlebedum, U and Wanakumjorn, P and Holladay, SD},
title = {Spatial and non-verbal reasoning abilities in first-year female DVM students before and after 4 h of canine osteology training or 19 h of canine dissection: preliminary study.},
journal = {Frontiers in veterinary science},
volume = {12},
number = {},
pages = {1593360},
pmid = {40761836},
issn = {2297-1769},
abstract = {Spatial ability refers to human cognitive ability to form, retrieve, and mentally manipulate models of spatial nature. This critical component of human intellect is relevant on a wide spectrum of professional disciplines including engineering, architecture, mathematics, computer sciences, natural sciences and a variety of medical disciplines, including anatomy and diagnostic imaging. In the present study, validated testing tools were used to compare spatial and general non-verbal reasoning abilities in first-year female veterinary medical students. These tests were: Guay's Visualization of Views Test (GVVT) and, Raven's Advanced Progressive Matrices Test, short form (APMT). Osteology Group (OG): students took the tests before and after exposure to general canine osteology (4 h). Dissection Group (DG): students took the tests before and after exposure to dissections/pro-sections/palpation labs (19 h). Results for the OG showed a numeric but non-significant increase in GVVT (p = 0.092), with mean scores of 8.01 and 11.34 pre-training and post-training, respectively. Similar results were found for the APMT, with pre-training and post-training mean scores of 7.44 and 8.44 (p = 0.16), respectively. Results for the DG showed a numeric but non-significant increase in GVVT (p = 0.67), with mean scores of 11.77 and 13.28 pre-labs and post-labs, respectively. For the APMT, the increase in scores was significant (p = 0.028), with mean scores of 6.8 and 10.2, pre-labs and post-labs, respectively. Future studies are planned with greater numbers of students and groups with different hours of anatomy exposure. Future studies might also consider subgroups such as pre-veterinary students.},
}

@article {pmid40759695,
year = {2025},
author = {Leibovici, A and Itzhaki, N and Shapsa, H and Yvgeny, J and Lerer, and Shechtman, M and Mesika, D and Raizman, R and Tsarfaty, G and Zibly, Z and Ungar, L and Peled, A and Gardner, RC and Zaltsman, SL and Bondi, M and Gaidukov, E and Schmahmann, JD and Plavsic, A and Livny, A},
title = {Compensatory cerebellar activation during fluid intelligence processing following mild traumatic brain injury.},
journal = {Scientific reports},
volume = {15},
number = {1},
pages = {28377},
pmid = {40759695},
issn = {2045-2322},
mesh = {Humans ; Male ; *Cerebellum/physiopathology/diagnostic imaging ; Female ; Adult ; Magnetic Resonance Imaging ; *Brain Concussion/physiopathology/diagnostic imaging/psychology ; *Intelligence/physiology ; Middle Aged ; Young Adult ; Case-Control Studies ; Cognition/physiology ; Brain Mapping ; },
abstract = {Cognitive outcome following mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) vary widely, with many individuals experiencing long-term impairments associated with frontoparietal network dysfunction. Mild TBI patients have demonstrated functional reorganization, suggesting an expansion of activation to cerebellar regions during specific executive functions. In this study, we investigated cerebellar involvement in fluid intelligence processing using a novel fMRI paradigm based on Raven's Progressive Matrices in 51 acute mTBI patients and 61 healthy controls. Despite comparable task accuracy, mTBI patients exhibited significantly increased activation in anterior cerebellar regions, including Vermis III and Cerebellum IV-V. Seed-based functional connectivity analysis further revealed altered cerebellar-frontoparietal interactions in mTBI patients compared to healthy controls. In mTBI patients, connectivity was enhanced with the left lateral prefrontal cortex and lower with the right posterior parietal cortex, which also showed a change from positive to negative connectivity. These findings suggest that the cerebellum is adaptively recruited to maintain cognitive performance, in line with the cerebellar reserve theory. This study provides initial evidence of cerebellar activation during fluid intelligence processing in mTBI, highlighting a potential role for the cerebellum in adaptively interacting with cortical networks to support cognitive function following brain injury.},
}

Humans
Male
*Cerebellum/physiopathology/diagnostic imaging
Female
Adult
Magnetic Resonance Imaging
*Brain Concussion/physiopathology/diagnostic imaging/psychology
*Intelligence/physiology
Middle Aged
Young Adult
Case-Control Studies
Cognition/physiology
Brain Mapping

@article {pmid40759476,
year = {2025},
author = {Zahid, N and Mughal, MN and Brown, N and Mårtensson, A and Mårtensson, T and Ibrahim, MS and Naeem, S and Qazi, S and Amin, W and Azam, I and Mushtaq, N and Moochhala, M and Kausar, F and Hasan, A and Javeed, F and Rehman, L and Altaf, S and Kirmani, S and Enam, SA},
title = {MicroRNA Expression and Neurocognitive Outcomes in Children and Young People With Primary Brain Tumor in Karachi, Pakistan: A Pilot Exploratory Study.},
journal = {Brain tumor research and treatment},
volume = {13},
number = {3},
pages = {87-94},
pmid = {40759476},
issn = {2288-2405},
support = {//Aga Khan University/Pakistan ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: microRNAs regulate various cellular pathways and may serve as medium-term prognostic markers in neurocognitive function, as suggested by adult studies. However, no comparable data exist for children with central nervous system tumors. This pilot study explored miRNA expression and its correlation with 12-month posttreatment neurocognitive function in children and young adults (5-21 years) with primary brain tumors.

METHODS: The study was conducted at Aga Khan University Hospital and Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Center (November 2020 to July 2023). This study analyzed serum levels of miR-21, miR-146a, miR-296-5p, miR-210, and miR-10b using reverse transcriptase quantitative PCR. Neurocognitive assessments using Slosson Intelligence Test, Raven's Progressive Matrices, and Wechsler Intelligence Scale were performed at pretreatment and 12 months posttreatment. The paired t-test was used to assess miRNA expressions, and correlation analysis assessed relationships between pretreatment miRNA expression and neurocognitive outcomes.

RESULTS: Of the 48 patients, serum samples were available for analysis from 34 (71%) patients each at pretreatment and 48 hours post-surgery, and 13 (27%) patients at 12 months posttreatment. A statistically significant negative correlation was found between pretreatment miR-210 levels and perceptual reasoning scores at 12 months posttreatment (ρ=-0.59), and a positive correlation between pretreatment miR-10b levels and processing speed scores (ρ=0.49). However, there were no differences in microRNA expressions between pretreatment and 48 hours post-surgery (n=34), pretreatment and 12 months posttreatment (n=13), or 48 hours post-surgery and 12 months posttreatment.

CONCLUSION: This pilot exploratory study found two statistically significant correlations: a negative correlation between pretreatment miR-210 levels and 12 months posttreatment perceptual reasoning scores and a positive correlation between miR-10b expression and 12 months posttreatment speed scores. Further studies are needed to understand the protective or restorative function of miR-10b in cognitive processes and the detrimental role of miR-210 in cognitive processes to evaluate their potential future use as prognostic biomarkers for neurocognitive outcomes in children and young people with primary brain tumors.},
}

@article {pmid40758670,
year = {2025},
author = {Fattahi, M and Esmaeil-Zadeh, M and Soltanian-Zadeh, H and Rasouli, N and Fallahinia, N and Jafari Mehdi Abad, A and Khosrowabadi, R and Malakouti, SK},
title = {Neuroimaging insights into recent suicide attempters utilizing the raven task.},
journal = {PloS one},
volume = {20},
number = {8},
pages = {e0327562},
pmid = {40758670},
issn = {1932-6203},
mesh = {Humans ; Male ; *Suicide, Attempted/psychology ; Female ; Adult ; Magnetic Resonance Imaging ; *Depressive Disorder, Major/physiopathology/psychology ; Young Adult ; Case-Control Studies ; *Neuroimaging ; Brain Mapping ; *Brain/physiopathology ; Middle Aged ; Suicidal Ideation ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Understanding brain function in individuals who have recently attempted suicide is critical for improving diagnosis and treatment strategies. This study aimed to examine neural activity patterns in such individuals (who had attempted suicide 1-4 weeks before the study) using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) and the General Linear Model (GLM).

METHODS: Sixty participants were recruited and categorized into three groups: individuals with a recent suicide attempt and Major Depressive Disorder (SA + MDD), individuals with Major Depressive Disorder without a suicide attempt (MDD), and healthy controls (HC). Participants performed the Raven task, consisting of 24 trials with a 25-second time limit for each item. Brain activity was analyzed to identify regional differences among groups using ANOVA, followed by Tukey's post-hoc pairwise comparisons.

RESULTS: Compared to the MDD and HC groups, the SA + MDD group exhibited significantly reduced activation in the left medial superior frontal cortex (SFC), left anterior cingulate cortex (ACC), and left precentral gyrus. Positive correlations were observed between the Scale for Suicidal Ideation scores and activity in the medial SFC and ACC, whereas a negative correlation was found with precentral gyrus activity. While task accuracy did not significantly differ among the groups, the SA + MDD group demonstrated significantly shorter response durations.

CONCLUSION: Individuals with recent suicide attempts show diminished activation in key left-hemispheric regions involved in cognitive control and problem-solving, including the medial SFC, ACC, and precentral gyrus. These neural deficits may impair decision-making and problem-solving abilities, particularly when compounded by hopelessness and a diminished sense of purpose, potentially contributing to increased suicide risk.},
}

Humans
Male
*Suicide, Attempted/psychology
Female
Adult
Magnetic Resonance Imaging
*Depressive Disorder, Major/physiopathology/psychology
Young Adult
Case-Control Studies
*Neuroimaging
Brain Mapping
*Brain/physiopathology
Middle Aged
Suicidal Ideation

@article {pmid40742461,
year = {2025},
author = {Wascher, CAF and Youngblood, M},
title = {Vocal efficiency in crows.},
journal = {Animal cognition},
volume = {28},
number = {1},
pages = {75},
pmid = {40742461},
issn = {1435-9456},
mesh = {*Crows/physiology ; Animals ; *Vocalization, Animal ; Male ; Female ; Social Behavior ; },
abstract = {Many communicative systems have been selected for efficiency, shaped by the trade-off between information transmission and energetic or temporal constraints. Linguistic laws such as Menzerath's law-predicting shorter elements in longer sequences-have emerged as widespread principles across vocal communication in many species. While these laws have been predominantly studied at the species level, the influence of individual and social factors remain underexplored. In this study, we investigated adherence to Menzerath's law in the vocal communication of carrion crows, Corvus corone corone, hooded crows, Corvus corone cornix and hybrids. Our findings show that crow call sequences adhere to Menzerath's law, with shorter calls occurring in longer sequences, demonstrating structural efficiency in vocal communication. In carrion crows specifically, we analysed call sequences in relation to individual characteristics (sex, age) and social variables (group size, dominance status, strength of affiliative relationships). Interestingly, adherence to Menzerath's law was stronger in males and younger individuals, while no effects were found for group size, dominance, or affiliative relationships. This study provides the first evidence of Menzerath's law in corvid vocal communication and suggests that individual-level traits, rather than broader social dynamics, may shape vocal efficiency. These findings broaden our understanding of widespread principles in animal communication and raise new questions about the ontogeny and flexibility of vocal efficiency in complex social species.},
}

*Crows/physiology
Animals
*Vocalization, Animal
Male
Female
Social Behavior

@article {pmid40738215,
year = {2025},
author = {Ferrari Cagidiaco, E and Verniani, G and Pontoriero, DIK and Saracutu, OI and Manfredini, D and Ferrari, M},
title = {Posterior partial crowns out of lithium disilicate with or without posts: A randomized controlled study at 9 years follow up.},
journal = {Journal of dentistry},
volume = {161},
number = {},
pages = {106005},
doi = {10.1016/j.jdent.2025.106005},
pmid = {40738215},
issn = {1879-176X},
abstract = {OBJECTIVE: These randomized controlled clinical aims to evaluate the long-term clinical performance of posterior lithium disilicate partial crowns used to restore endodontically treated teeth (ETT), with or without fiber post placement, over a 9-year period in patients who did not report any bruxism activities at baseline.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: Participants were recruited at the University of Siena, Siena, Italy. Patient were≥18 years, in need for one partial crown on posterior teeth (molars and premolars) following endodontic treatment and with at least 50 % of the coronal structure remaining. Patients were randomly assigned to two groups: Group 1 received fiber posts for abutment build-up, and Group 2 did not. Lithium disilicate partial crowns were fabricated and adhesively cemented for both groups. Clinical and radiographic evaluations were conducted at baseline, 1, 2, 3, and 9 years. Failures were defined as post debonding/fracture, root fracture, crown dislodgement/fracture, or the presence of periapical lesion. Cox regression analysis was used to assess the influence of post placement and tooth type.

RESULTS: A total of 120 patients were enrolled. At the 9-year follow-up, survival of ETT ranged between 88.8 % in molars without post and to 85.7 % in premolars with no post. No statistically significant difference was observed regarding post placement or tooth type on failure rates (p > .05).

CONCLUSION: The findings of the present clinical trial support the idea in patients with no report of bruxism, the insertion of a fiber post for the reconstruction of endodontically treated teeth with partial crown lithium disilicate in posterior teeth is not a necessary procedure.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: When at least 50 % of coronal structure is maintained, fiber post placement does not significantly influence survival rates. Lithium disilicate partial crowns provide excellent long-term outcomes in restoring endodontically treated posterior teeth.},
}

@article {pmid40737589,
year = {2025},
author = {Kim, YJ and Hwang, K},
title = {Graceful Aging in the Bust of Hadrian: Reflections for Modern Anti-Aging Surgery Ethics.},
journal = {The Journal of craniofacial surgery},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1097/SCS.0000000000011721},
pmid = {40737589},
issn = {1536-3732},
abstract = {Roman imperial portraiture served not only to project authority but also to communicate cultural and philosophical values. Emperor Hadrian's busts are notable for expressing visible signs of aging-deliberate departure from the ageless idealism of prior emperors such as Augustus. This paper examines how Hadrian's sculpted image embodies a vision of graceful aging and considers its relevance to modern anti-aging surgery ethics. The aim is to explore the artistic, historical, and philosophical dimensions of Hadrian's portraiture and draw ethical parallels for contemporary aesthetic surgeons who increasingly face requests to erase the physical evidence of age rather than preserve individuality and emotional narrative. Hadrian's likeness features subtle crow's feet, forehead lines, and softening around the jaw-elements typically associated with aging, yet portrayed with remarkable dignity and intellectual poise. This reflects Hellenistic ideals, particularly Stoic and Epicurean values, in which aging signifies wisdom, balance, and self-mastery. In contrast, today's aesthetic culture often pathologizes aging, favoring aggressive rejuvenation and digital smoothness. This commentary proposes the concept of selective aging preservation, encouraging surgeons to retain features that communicate personal identity while respectfully restoring or softening others. Hadrian's marble visage offers more than artistic value; it provides ethical and aesthetic mirror for anti-aging practitioners. Aging need not be erased to achieve beauty. In embracing balanced approach-one that values natural signs of time alongside thoughtful intervention-modern plastic surgery can restore not only surface form but deeper human meaning. The surgeon, like the ancient sculptor, holds the responsibility to craft not just appearance, but legacy.},
}

@article {pmid40732203,
year = {2025},
author = {Kim, J and Kim, H and Goh, J and Nam, SW and Chung, EJ and Shin, M and Seol, D and Kim, KH and Kwak, W},
title = {The Complete Genomes of Microcystis ichthyoblabe Kützing and Microcystis protocystis (Crow) Komárek & Anagnostidis Reveal the Complexity and Plasticity of Microcystis Genomes.},
journal = {Microorganisms},
volume = {13},
number = {7},
pages = {},
pmid = {40732203},
issn = {2076-2607},
abstract = {Microcystis is a genus of cyanobacteria responsible for harmful algal blooms (HABs) in freshwater ecosystems, posing significant ecological and public health risks. Despite its importance, current genomic resources are heavily biased toward Microcystis aeruginosa, limiting comprehensive understanding of genomic diversity within the genus. In this study, we present the first complete genome sequences of two morphospecies, M. ichthyoblabe FBCC-A1114 and M. protocystis FBCC-A270. Using long-read sequencing, both genomes were assembled into single circular chromosomes of 5.84 Mb and 5.76 Mb, respectively. Phylogenetic analyses placed both strains within genospecies G, alongside M. aeruginosa and M. viridis. Comparative analysis of biosynthetic gene clusters revealed that, while most genospecies G members harbor aeruginosin, cyanobactin, and microviridin gene clusters, the two newly sequenced strains lack cyanobactin and microcystin clusters but retain the microginin cluster. Synteny analysis demonstrated high structural conservation between the two genomes, while notable structural variations were observed when compared with M. aeruginosa NIES-298. These findings reveal both functional and structural plasticity within the genospecies, suggesting ecotype diversification driven by environmental adaptation. The newly assembled genomes provide critical resources to refine classification frameworks and advance our understanding of Microcystis genomic diversity.},
}

@article {pmid40723516,
year = {2025},
author = {Hayward, L},
title = {Reader Responses to Online Reporting of Tagged Bird Behavior.},
journal = {Animals : an open access journal from MDPI},
volume = {15},
number = {14},
pages = {},
pmid = {40723516},
issn = {2076-2615},
abstract = {This paper explores responses to online coverage of an avian tracking project. Researchers attached novel trackers to a small group of wild magpies (Gymnorhina tibicen). These were subsequently removed by conspecifics, an example of 'rescue behavior' that was recounted in several media outlets. Online comments on three articles, from across the political spectrum (the Conversation, UK Guardian, and UK Daily Mail), were selected for thematic analysis. The resulting 680 comments were analyzed qualitatively and quantitatively to uncover predominant themes and the overall balance of positive and negative sentiments expressed about this tagging project or wildlife tagging generally. Topics occurring most frequently were themed into three interrelated areas: (1) sharing personal feelings and experiences, (2) comparing the merits of different species, and (3) sharing knowledge and opinion. Twenty-one percent (21%) of respondents expressed an opinion on the ethics of wildlife tagging. In the Daily Mail and Guardian, this opinion was more likely to be negative towards the use of tags. Opinion was more balanced for readers of the Conversation's article. Willingness to comment on online news is low, and readers of this story were not asked directly for their opinion. Nevertheless, the data here illustrate some public perceptions of wildlife tagging, and there was a clear negative reaction from many responders. Widening the means through which people can engage with animal science has the potential to advance discussions around research ethics and animal welfare. Reactions to this story expose important questions for scientists seeking to engage with, and convince, the public of the merits of their work.},
}

@article {pmid40720520,
year = {2025},
author = {Videman, K and Ashorn, U and Ashorn, P and Hallamaa, L and Maleta, K and Mangani, C and Leppänen, JM},
title = {Eye-tracking measures of oculomotor speed and control as markers of cognitive ability in Malawian adolescent population: Secondary analysis of a randomized controlled trial.},
journal = {PLOS global public health},
volume = {5},
number = {7},
pages = {e0004811},
pmid = {40720520},
issn = {2767-3375},
abstract = {Processing speed and response control are fundamental properties of brain function and potential markers of cognitive ability. This study, a secondary analysis of a randomized controlled trial, examined whether eye-tracking measures of saccadic reaction time and gaze control are associated with an established cognitive ability test, Raven's coloured progressive matrices (CPM), among 13-year-old rural Malawian adolescents (1003 participants, 50.3% boys). Mean prosaccadic reaction time (pSRTm), antisaccade error rate (PE) and CPM result were obtained for 760 (75.8%), 621 (61.6%) and 997 (99.4%) children. Pearson correlation and linear regression were used to evaluate the association of the tasks.Faster pSRTm and lower PE were very weakly associated with higher CPM score (rs -0.12, p = .001 and -0.11, p = .006). In the covariate adjusted regression models, faster prosaccadic reaction time (pSRTm) was very weakly associated with higher scores in CPM test (adjusted coef -0.02, 95%CI (-.03- -.002), p = .03), but antisaccadic errors were not associated with CPM score (adjusted coef -0.63, 95%CI (-1.60 -.33), p = .20). Post hoc-analyses suggested stronger associations between eye-tracking measures and CPM among participants with more schooling (years in school <4.5 or >4.5, rs between pSRTm and CPM -0.05 and -0.21; between PE and CPM -0.01 and -0.39). The results confirm the predicted association between saccadic speed and cognitive ability in an understudied population, but the connection is weaker than expected according to earlier studies. Schooling potentially moderates the association between eye-tracking tests and CPM.},
}

@article {pmid40719962,
year = {2025},
author = {Devita, M and Ravelli, A and Panzeri, A and Castaldo, A and Arioli, M and Olivito, G and Berardi, A and Miscioscia, A and Ferrari, C and Siciliano, L and Mariotti, C and De Rui, M and Ghisi, M and Cattaneo, Z and Sergi, G and Mapelli, D and Leggio, M},
title = {The Italian Standardization of the Cerebellar Cognitive Affective/Schmahmann Syndrome Scale: Cognitive Profiling in a Healthy, Heterogeneous Population.},
journal = {Cerebellum (London, England)},
volume = {24},
number = {5},
pages = {138},
pmid = {40719962},
issn = {1473-4230},
support = {PRIN_PNRR_2022 P2022TWSWS//Fondo per il Programma Nazionale della Ricerca (PNR) e Progetti di Ricerca di Rilevante Interesse Nazionale (PRIN)/ ; PRIN_PNRR_2022 P2022TWSWS//Fondo per il Programma Nazionale della Ricerca (PNR) e Progetti di Ricerca di Rilevante Interesse Nazionale (PRIN)/ ; PRIN 20203LT7H3//Italian Ministry of University and Research/ ; RF-2021-12374279)//Ricerca Finalizzata 2021/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; Female ; Male ; Italy ; Middle Aged ; Adult ; *Neuropsychological Tests/standards ; Young Adult ; Aged ; *Cognition/physiology ; Psychometrics ; Reproducibility of Results ; *Cerebellar Diseases/diagnosis/psychology ; Healthy Volunteers ; Cerebellar Cognitive Affective Syndrome ; },
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: The Cerebellar Cognitive Affective Syndrome (CCAS), also known as Schmahmann's syndrome, is increasingly recognized for its impact on cognitive and emotional functioning yet remains underdiagnosed. This study aimed to standardize the CCAS-Scale (CCAS-S) in the Italian population, enhancing its methodological and statistical validity.

METHODS: A total of 671 healthy Italian volunteers (mean age = 46.19 years with SD 18.47, 58.88% females), were recruited from various geographical, educational and social backgrounds. Participants were assessed using the CCAS-S, alongside the Cognitive Reserve Index questionnaire, Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices and the Mini-Mental State Examination to ensure a comprehensive assessment and establish convergent validity. Moreover, the parallel CCAS-S version B was administered to 51 individuals.

RESULTS: Statistical analyses on the Italian version of the CCAS-S revealed strong psychometric properties. Internal consistency was confirmed with Cronbach's alpha values of 0.70 and 0.74 for parallel forms A and B. Construct validity was supported by a moderate-to-high correlation (r = 0.453) with the Mini-Mental State Examination, suggesting both scales are related yet measure different cognitive functions, with the CCAS-S focusing on executive functions. Test-retest and inter-rater reliability were optimal (ICC = 0.902 and 0.989, respectively). Minimal practice effects were observed after 1 to 3 months, with further validation achieved using parallel version B.

CONCLUSIONS: The present work provides the first Italian standardization of CCAS-S. The results highlight the necessity for increased awareness and recognition of CCAS in clinical settings, advocating for the integration of the CCAS-S into routine assessments to improve diagnostic accuracy and patient care.},
}

Humans
Female
Male
Italy
Middle Aged
Adult
*Neuropsychological Tests/standards
Young Adult
Aged
*Cognition/physiology
Psychometrics
Reproducibility of Results
*Cerebellar Diseases/diagnosis/psychology
Healthy Volunteers
Cerebellar Cognitive Affective Syndrome

@article {pmid40718697,
year = {2025},
author = {Jiménez, J and Finat, R and Fernández-Tizón, M and Hernández-Hernández, J and Martínez-González, AI and Virgós, E},
title = {Jackdaws Use Lynx Scat in Nests: Implications for Iberian Lynx Genetic Monitoring.},
journal = {Ecology and evolution},
volume = {15},
number = {7},
pages = {e71859},
pmid = {40718697},
issn = {2045-7758},
abstract = {We present the first documented case of jackdaws (Coloeus monedula) collecting and placing Iberian lynx (Lynx pardinus) scat in their nests in the Montes de Toledo, Spain. This behavior may significantly compromise conservation efforts for species whose monitoring relies on non-invasive genetic sampling-such as the lynx-especially in areas with dense populations of jackdaws or other species exhibiting similar behavior, where this removal may substantially reduce sample availability. Using artificial nest boxes equipped with camera traps, we confirmed that jackdaws actively transport lynx scat to their nests. In a controlled experiment simulating a lynx latrine, all scat was removed in just over an hour. Simulations using spatial capture-recapture (SCR) models showed that this behavior can introduce bias and reduce the accuracy of population estimates based on genetic sampling, a widely used method in wildlife monitoring. These findings highlight the importance of considering interspecific interactions when designing monitoring protocols for threatened species. More broadly, this case illustrates how overlooked ecological behaviors can compromise conservation tools and underscores the need for adaptive monitoring strategies in dynamic ecosystems.},
}

@article {pmid40711630,
year = {2025},
author = {Vernouillet, A and Huang, N and Kelly, DM},
title = {Correction: Pinyon Jays (Gymnorhinus cyanocephalus) and Clark's nutcrackers (Nucifraga columbiana) can discriminate between pilfering and non-pilfering conspecifics, but not between heterospecifics.},
journal = {Animal cognition},
volume = {28},
number = {1},
pages = {64},
doi = {10.1007/s10071-025-01995-6},
pmid = {40711630},
issn = {1435-9456},
}

@article {pmid40711602,
year = {2025},
author = {Daw, F and Beheim, BA and Wascher, CAF},
title = {Correction: Evolutionary drivers of caching behaviour in corvids.},
journal = {Animal cognition},
volume = {28},
number = {1},
pages = {65},
doi = {10.1007/s10071-025-01989-4},
pmid = {40711602},
issn = {1435-9456},
}

@article {pmid40710810,
year = {2025},
author = {von Gugelberg, HM and Troche, SJ},
title = {Individual Differences in Strategy and the Item-Position Effect in Reasoning Ability Measures.},
journal = {Journal of Intelligence},
volume = {13},
number = {7},
pages = {},
pmid = {40710810},
issn = {2079-3200},
abstract = {Despite the high similarity of reasoning ability items, research indicates that individuals apply different strategies when solving them. The two distinct strategies are response elimination and constructive matching. The latter, frequently showing a positive correlation with reasoning ability, entails the individual systematically investigating the presented problem matrix of an item before scanning the response alternatives. To further understand the sources of individual differences in strategy use during test taking, three different eye-tracking metrics were investigated in participants (N = 210) solving the Raven's Advanced Progressive Matrices (APM). Relying on the fixed-links modeling approach, bifactor models were fit to the data. The latent model approach revealed, in line with other research, a positive correlation between reasoning ability and constructive matching. The results further indicated that a change in strategy use was correlated with the item-position effect and not reasoning ability. The former exhibited a different direction of effect, depending on the eye-tracking metric analyzed. When investigating the toggle rate, the participants used more constructive matching towards the end of the APM. The proportional time to first fixation on response alternatives indicated less constructive matching as the test progressed, and the proportional time on the problem matrix exhibited no distinct pattern regarding a change in strategy use. These diverging results point towards the possibility of a more nuanced problem-solving behavior than previously assumed. By including the item-position effect in the analyses, the increasing individuals differences in problem-solving behavior can be taken into account, which could be a necessary step in attaining a more comprehensive understanding of problem-solving behavior.},
}

@article {pmid40708954,
year = {2025},
author = {Yoshida, T and Kobayashi, M and Hara, D and Taniguchi, R and Fukunaga, Y and Sone, M},
title = {Cognitive function and speech outcomes after cochlear implantation in older adults.},
journal = {Frontiers in neurology},
volume = {16},
number = {},
pages = {1630946},
pmid = {40708954},
issn = {1664-2295},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The impact of cochlear implantation on cognitive function in older adults and the relationship between preoperative cognitive ability and postoperative speech perception remain poorly understood. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the effect of cochlear implant use on cognitive function in older adults and to explore the association between preoperative cognitive ability and postoperative speech discrimination.

METHODS: We conducted a retrospective cohort study at a university hospital between June 2017 and March 2025. Thirty cochlear implant recipients aged ≥61 years were included, with 21 receiving unilateral implants and nine receiving bilateral implants. All participants underwent cognitive assessments both preoperatively and postoperatively. We analyzed the cognitive function test results before and after cochlear implantation. The primary outcomes measured were: (1) the correlation between preoperative cognitive test scores and postoperative speech discrimination scores; and (2) longitudinal changes in postoperative cognitive function.

RESULTS: A significant positive correlation was observed between preoperative Kohs Block Design Test scores and postoperative speech discrimination scores (p < 0.01). Preoperative Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices scores also correlated positively with postoperative speech discrimination scores (p < 0.05). Postoperatively, Kohs scores demonstrated significant positive correlations with both the Mini-Mental State Examination (p < 0.01) and Reading Cognitive Test Kyoto test (p < 0.0001) scores. Following a 3.7-year mean follow-up, Kohs scores remained stable, with some patients showing improvements.

CONCLUSION: Cognitive assessments performed during the preoperative CI evaluation may yield valuable insights into postoperative outcomes in older adults. Additionally, long-term postoperative cognitive function is generally preserved, with the potential for improvement following cochlear implantation.},
}

@article {pmid40708691,
year = {2025},
author = {Jeffers, NK and Arrington, LA and Marcelle, E and Snowden, EC and Aslami, LM and Mensah, CN and Marea, CX},
title = {"This year is not about carrying the heaviest burden"- a qualitative study on Black women's postpartum experiences.},
journal = {SSM. Qualitative research in health},
volume = {7},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {40708691},
issn = {2667-3215},
support = {KL2 TR001432/TR/NCATS NIH HHS/United States ; TL1 TR001431/TR/NCATS NIH HHS/United States ; },
abstract = {There is a growing literature that seeks to understand Black women/birthing people's postpartum experiences, particularly in the context of structural, political and historical exclusion of Black people in the United States. The overarching goals of this manuscript were to explore Black women's postpartum experiences, how racism impacts the postpartum year, and for those insights to reimagine a model of postpartum care that enables Black birthing people to achieve that vision of wellness. We conducted four focus groups with 23 self-identified Black women in the Washington DC metropolitan area who had given birth in the prior two years. Participants attributed the intense overwhelm that characterizes the postpartum period to the historical legacy of slavery, the Jim Crow era, and the enduring "strong Black woman" racial trope. Most participants reported receiving only one postpartum care visit amidst unmet care needs. Structural barriers like transportation, minimal paid leave, and crowded and racially segregated healthcare systems contributed to feelings that postpartum care and wellness were inaccessible. Racist encounters with healthcare providers and fears of family policing sometimes led to care avoidance as a means of mitigating harm while simultaneously motivating attempts to seek racially and culturally concordant care. Participants also shared the ways in which they resisted racism while also rejoicing in mothering and child (ren). Our findings demonstrate an urgent need to reimagine postpartum care to address the enduring impact of the historical context, the manifestations of racism, and the structural ways that postpartum is neglected, while also promoting wellness and joy.},
}

@article {pmid40697942,
year = {2025},
author = {Kryukov, AP},
title = {Genetic variation and phylogeography of the magpie's genus Pica in the Holarctic.},
journal = {Vavilovskii zhurnal genetiki i selektsii},
volume = {29},
number = {4},
pages = {578-593},
doi = {10.18699/vjgb-25-61},
pmid = {40697942},
issn = {2500-0462},
abstract = {The theory of Pleistocene refugia is often used to explain the population genetic structure of species. However, it does not fully account for the diversity of species-specific characteristics and natural conditions. The genus Pica, which is widespread in the Holarctic, provides an ideal model for studying phylogeographic patterns in order to better understand processes of diversification and speciation. Markers of mitochondrial DNA remain widely used in phylogeographic studies, despite advances of whole genome techniques. We have summarized published research on the mitochondrial DNA Control Region (CR) variation, based on data from 279 samples which represent the majority of extant taxa across the entire distribution range of the genus. In the phylogenetic trees and networks, we found several cases of reciprocal monophyly among most allopatric species and subspecies, and in addition some examples of paraphyly and polyphyly. Bayesian skyline plots were calculated to explore population dynamics over time. They showed varying longevity of the lineages since their origin or after experiencing a bottleneck, e. g., in the case of the Kamchatka population, as well as unequal rates of expansion. In most cases, speciation followed a geographic model involving expansion and vicariance, sometimes with divergence in refugia. Somewhere, peripatric speciation may have happened due to separation of a marginal populations. By comparing haplotype composition among populations, we traced the origin of the recently established populations on Hokkaido and Kyushu islands from a limited number of colonizers from the mainland. Isolated cases of species in statu nascendi were identified through evidence of incomplete lineage sorting, leading to paraphyly, or signs of limited unidirectional interspecies introgression of nuclear genes in secondary contact zones. Several hypotheses regarding the formation of the magpie´s range are proposed. Various evolutionary scenarios found in the genus Pica were compared to those reported for the other bird species in a number of literature sources.},
}

@article {pmid40693715,
year = {2025},
author = {Westheimer, G},
title = {Jay M. Enoch (1929-2025), Berkeley Optometry Dean and leading retina researcher: A biographical memoir of an important 20th-century vision researcher and optometric educator, by one of his contemporaries.},
journal = {Optometry and vision science : official publication of the American Academy of Optometry},
volume = {102},
number = {8},
pages = {475-479},
doi = {10.1097/OPX.0000000000002277},
pmid = {40693715},
issn = {1538-9235},
}