Search Results (5,536)

Numbers present persistent challenges in interpreting, yet cognitive mechanisms underlying notation-specific processing remain underexplored. While eye-tracking studies in visually-assisted simultaneous interpreting have advanced number research, they predominantly examine Arabic numerals in non-Chinese contexts—neglecting notation diversity increasingly prevalent in computer-assisted interpreting systems where Automatic Speech Recognition outputs vary across languages. Addressing these gaps, this study investigated how number notation (Arabic digits vs. Chinese character numbers) affects trainee interpreters’ cognitive effort and performance in Chinese-to-English sight translation. Employing a mixed-methods design, we measured global (task-level) and local (number-specific) eye movements alongside expert assessments, output analysis, and subjective assessments. Results show that Chinese character numbers demand significantly greater cognitive effort than Arabic digits, evidenced by more and longer fixations, more extensive saccadic movements, and a larger eye-voice span. Concurrently, sight translation quality decreased markedly with Chinese character numbers, with more processing attempts yet lower accuracy and fluency. Subjective workload ratings confirmed higher mental, physical, and temporal demands in Task 2. These findings reveal an effort-quality paradox where greater cognitive investment in processing complex notations leads to poorer outcomes, and highlight the urgent need for notation-specific training strategies and adaptive technologies in multilingual communication. Full article

As an essential medium for the cultural narrative of architectural space, studying the cognitive transformation mechanisms of traditional ethnic decorative patterns is critical for their effective preservation and innovative application. This research focuses on typical decorative motifs found in She ethnic architectural heritage, systematically classifying them into five categories—animal, plant, human figure, totem, and geometric—based on symbolic themes, formal structure, and cultural function. Correspondingly, 20 sets of standardized black-and-white line drawing stimuli were developed for experimental use. Methodologically, this study utilized the EyeLink 1000 eye-tracking system to acquire real-time gaze metrics, including fixation duration and saccadic amplitude, as well as pupil dilation responses from participants engaged in a controlled pattern observation task. Immediately after observation, participants completed a semantic differential assessment using a five-point Likert scale. Data analysis employed descriptive statistics, analysis of variance (ANOVA), Kruskal–Wallis tests, and Bonferroni-adjusted post hoc comparisons (α = 0.05). Attention allocation was further examined through heatmaps and gaze trajectory visualizations to provide comprehensive insight into visual engagement. Two principal findings were identified: first, male participants showed a predominant focus on holistic structural composition and cultural symbol representation, whereas female participants exhibited a processing bias towards fine details; second, concrete symbols imbued with historical significance elicited more pronounced emotional responses, while abstract geometric patterns necessitated formal reconstruction to enhance cognitive accessibility. These findings offer empirical support for gender-inclusive architectural design strategies and inform practical approaches for safeguarding cultural heritage within contemporary architectural environments. Consequently, modern reinterpretation of traditional decorative patterns should balance cultural narrative fidelity with functional adaptation, achieving inclusive expression through contextual reconstruction and interactive design strategies. Future research directions include expanding participant demographics to encompass cross-cultural cohorts and incorporating multimodal neuroimaging techniques to elucidate the underlying cognitive and affective mechanisms, thereby advancing the sustainable transmission and innovation of ethnic cultural heritage. Full article

Aim: The aim of this preliminary study was to explore the visual attention in children with ADHD using eye-tracking, and to identify a relevant quantitative proxy of their attentional control. Methods: Twenty-two children diagnosed with ADHD (aged 7 to 12 years) and their 24 sex-, age-matched control participants with typical development performed a visual sustained-fixation task using an eye-tracker. Fixation stability was estimated by calculating the bivariate contour ellipse area (BCEA) as a continuous index of gaze dispersion during the task. Results: Children with ADHD showed a significantly higher BCEA than control participants (p < 0.001), reflecting their increased gaze instability. The impairment in gaze fixation persisted even in the absence of visual distractors, suggesting intrinsic attentional dysregulation in ADHD. Conclusions: Our results provide preliminary evidence that eye-tracking coupled with BCEA analysis, provides a sensitive and non-invasive tool for quantifying visual attentional resources of children with ADHD. If replicated and extended, the increased use of gaze instability as an indicator of visual attention in children could have a major impact in clinical settings to assist clinicians. This analysis focuses on overall gaze dispersion rather than fine eye micro-movements such as microsaccades. Full article

The rural landscape, as the core constituent unit of rural space, is vital for promoting sustainable rural development and achieving rural revitalization goals. However, current research is often limited to single groups, neglecting differences in visual behaviors (VBs) and landscape preferences (LPs) among diverse groups. Thus, this study employed eye-tracking technology combined with a landscape preference questionnaire to investigate the VBs and LPs of 160 participants when viewing rural landscapes. The results indicate that there is a notable correlation between VBs and LPs (p < 0.01), and the two aspects mutually influence each other. Moreover, groups with different demographic characteristics exhibit significant differences in both VBs and LPs. Among them, the score for LPs in the group of farmers, service sector workers, and retirees is significantly higher than that in the group of students, while the mean fixation duration is significantly lower than that in the group of students. Based on these research findings, this study suggests that, during the process of rural landscape design, full consideration should be given to the VBs and LPs of diverse groups with different demographic characteristics to enhance the inclusivity of rural landscape design and facilitate the realization of diversified and sustainable rural development. Full article

Organic amendments, such as straw, biochar, and animal manure, have been demonstrated to enhance soil phosphorus (P) availability effectively; however, the long-term impacts and underlying mechanisms require further study. Based on a long-term field experiment, this research systematically analyzed the effects of biochar (BIO), biochar-based fertilizer (BF), straw-returning (CS), and pig manure compost (PMC) on soil phosphorus transformation and crop phosphorus uptake. Results showed that biochar significantly boosted soil available phosphorus (AP) by releasing soluble phosphorus, raising soil pH, reducing phosphorus fixation by iron and aluminum oxides, and enhancing soil cation exchange capacity (CEC) to promote phosphorus dissolution and transformation. Notably, biochar increased the proportion of NaOH-P, facilitating phosphorus accumulation in peanut grains and improving the phosphorus harvest index and utilization efficiency. Straw-returning primarily elevated soil AP by promoting organic phosphorus mineralization and inorganic phosphorus release; however, its acidification of the soil impaired phosphorus translocation to grains, resulting in lower phosphorus-use efficiency compared to biochar. Pig manure compost reduced soil phosphorus fixation and increased soil total organic carbon (TOC), thereby boosting phosphorus transformation. Despite enhancing phosphorus dry-matter production in plants, most phosphorus remained in stems and leaves, with limited translocation to grains, leading to lower phosphorus-use efficiency than biochar. In conclusion, biochar was most effective in enhancing soil phosphorus availability and crop phosphorus-use efficiency, highlighting its potential in sustainable soil fertility management and optimized crop production. Full article

Background: The optimal timing of surgical treatment for ankle fractures remains a topic that is associated with clinical uncertainty. While delayed surgery is often necessary for safe wound closure, prolonged immobilization, impaired functional outcomes, protracted hospitalization, and an increased risk of infection are potential disadvantages. This study was aimed at investigating the interval between trauma, surgical fixation, and postoperative infections among patients with closed ankle fractures. Methods: We conducted a retrospective cohort study involving 224 patients treated surgically for fractures of the upper ankle joint between January 2020 and December 2023. The patients were stratified into two groups based on surgical timing: within 24 h of hospital admission (early surgery) or after 24 h (delayed surgery). The primary outcome was the incidence of postoperative infections. A multivariate logistic regression model was constructed to assess independent risk factors. Results: Of the 224 patients, 30 (13.4%) developed postoperative infections. Infection occurred in 11.1% of patients who underwent early surgery and 13.7% of those subjected to delayed surgery. This difference was not statistically significant in the unadjusted analysis (p = 0.747). However, an additional day of surgical delay was associated with an 11% increase in the odds of postoperative infection (OR = 1.11; 95% CI: 1.01–1.22; p = 0.034). Female patients had over threefold higher odds of infection than males (OR = 3.20; 95% CI: 1.32–8.09; p = 0.011), and diabetes was a significant risk factor, with diabetic individuals showing more than fivefold increased odds (OR = 5.56; 95% CI: 1.30–25.00; p = 0.019). Patients with delayed surgery had significantly longer hospital stays (+2.83 days, p < 0.05). Conclusions: Early surgical intervention appears to lower the risk of postoperative infections, is associated with hospitalization duration, and should be considered when clinically appropriate. Full article

This study investigates reading performances and eye movements in individuals with eccentric fixation due to age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Overall, 17 individuals with bilateral AMD (7 males; mean age 77.47 ± 5.96 years) and 17 controls (10 males; mean age 72.18 ± 5.98 years) were assessed for reading visual acuity (VA), reading speed (Minnesota low vision reading chart in Slovene, MNREAD-SI), and near contrast sensitivity (Pelli-Robson). Microperimetry (NIDEK MP-3) was used to evaluate preferential retinal locus (PRL) location and fixation stability. Eye movements were recorded with Tobii Pro-glasses 2 and analyzed for reading duration, saccade amplitude, peak velocity, number of saccades, saccade duration, and fixation duration. Individuals with AMD exhibited significantly reduced reading indices (worse reading VA (p < 0.001), slower reading (p < 0.001), and lower near contrast sensitivity (p < 0.001)). Eye movement analysis revealed prolonged reading duration, longer fixation duration, and an increased number of saccades in individuals with AMD per paragraph. The number of saccades per paragraph was significantly correlated with all measured reading indices. These findings provide insights into reading adaptations in AMD. Simultaneously, the proposed approach in analyzing eye movements puts forward eye trackers as a prospective diagnostic tool in ophthalmology. Full article

Background: Severe glenoid bone loss presents a major challenge in both primary and revision reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA). Standard implants often fail to achieve reliable fixation in these cases. Custom-made, 3D-printed glenoid components have emerged as a potential solution, offering anatomically tailored fit and fixation. This study evaluates the clinical and radiographic outcomes of custom-made glenoid implants in managing severe glenoid bone loss. Methods: A retrospective, multicenter study was conducted on 23 shoulders (11 primary and 12 revision RSAs) that received a custom-made glenoid component using the Enovis ProMade System (San Daniele del Friuli, Udine, Italy) between 2017 and 2022, with a minimum follow-up of 24 months. Preoperative planning utilized CT-based 3D modeling to design implants with patient-specific instrumentation. Clinical outcomes (ROM, pain, Constant–Murley score) and radiographic results were assessed. Statistical comparisons were made between primary and revision groups. Results: Both groups demonstrated significant improvements in shoulder mobility, pain relief, and Constant–Murley scores (all p < 0.001), with no significant differences between primary and revision groups in delta scores. Radiographically, no loosening was observed, with minimal radiolucent lines and low complication rates. Four cases of instability occurred, all in the revision group, with only one requiring conversion to hemiarthroplasty. No differences in radiographic outcomes were observed between groups. Conclusions: Custom-made glenoid implants provide a reliable solution for severe glenoid bone loss in both primary and revision RSA, yielding consistent functional improvement and implant stability. Further prospective studies with larger cohorts and long-term follow-up are warranted to confirm these findings and assess cost-effectiveness. Full article

Objectives: To assess the anatomical lens position (ALP) predictability for a capsulotomy-fixated intraocular lens (IOL; FEMTIS FB-313, Teleon Surgical B.V) versus an intracapsular IOL (TECNIS 1-Piece, ZCB00V, Johnson & Johnson) implanted for age-related cataracts. Methods: Pre- and 3-month postoperative measurements from optical biometry and swept-source anterior segment OCT were analyzed. The lens position (i.e., postoperatively, ALP) was defined as the distance between the corneal endothelium and the lens equator. Multivariate linear mixed-effects models assessed the influence of preoperative biometric parameters on ALP, prediction error (PE), and absolute PE (AbsPE). Results: A total of 45 FEMTIS eyes from 32 patients and 26 TECNIS eyes from 18 patients were included. Postoperatively, the anterior chamber depth (ACD) increased by 1.10 mm in FEMTIS eyes and 1.66 mm in TECNIS eyes, while the lens position decreased by 0.59 mm and 0.34 mm, respectively. ACD and lens thickness (LT) were the strongest ALP predictors (ACD: β = +0.70, p < 0.0001; LT: β = +0.37, p < 0.0001). Separate multivariate models demonstrated strong predictive performance, with the FEMTIS achieving R² = 0.92 and the TECNIS IOL performing even better with R² = 0.97. In the FEMTIS group, LT influenced the PE (p = 0.006) and ACD the AbsPE (p = 0.005). In the TECNIS group, ACD influenced the PE (p < 0.0001), while AbsPE was not significantly affected by biometric parameters or formulas. Conclusions: ALP can be reliably predicted from standard biometric data, although less accurately for the FEMTIS IOL. Its anterior capsulotomy fixation likely compromises refractive accuracy with formulas inherently designed and optimized for in-the-bag IOLs, emphasizing the need for fixation-specific formula adjustments and dedicated optimization in capsulotomy-fixated IOLs. Full article

The fixation time of alleles is a fundamental concept in population genetics, traditionally studied using the Wright–Fisher model and classical coalescent theory. However, these models often assume homogeneous environments and equal reproductive success among individuals, limiting their applicability to real-world populations where environmental heterogeneity plays a significant role. In this paper, we introduce a new forward-time model for estimating fixation time that incorporates environmental heterogeneity through the use of fractional calculus. By introducing a fractional parameter α, we capture the effects of heterogeneous environments on offspring production. To solve the resulting fractional differential equations, we develop a novel spectral method based on Eta-based functions, which are well-suited for approximating solutions to complex, high-variation systems. The proposed method reduces the problem to an optimization framework via the operational matrix of fractional derivatives. We demonstrate the effectiveness and accuracy of this approach through numerical examples and show that it consistently captures fixation dynamics across various scenarios. This work offers a robust and flexible framework for modeling evolutionary processes in heterogeneous environments. Full article

Background/Objectives: Epiretinal membrane (ERM) is often associated with macular thickening and foveal intraretinal fluid. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of early postoperative SMLT (577 nm) in preventing persistent macular oedema and to assess its impact on selected functional and morphometric retinal parameters after ERM peeling. Methods: A total of 68 pseudophakic patients with ERMs were enrolled and randomly assigned (1:1) to a laser group or a nonlaser control group. SMLT was performed one month after PPV. The functional and morphometric retinal parameters were assessed preoperatively and at one and four months postoperatively via optical coherence tomography (OCT), OCT angiography (OCTA), multifocal electroretinography (mfERG), and microperimetry. Results: The reduction in total retinal volume between the first and fourth postoperative months was significantly greater in the SMLT group than in the control group (p = 0.02). No significant differences in functional parameters were found between the groups. A more substantial reduction in total retinal volume post-SMLT was associated with greater baseline macular thickness, a more advanced ERM stage, worse baseline visual acuity, greater fixation stability, lower initial macular sensitivity and lower preoperative p-wave amplitude in ring R1 on mfERG. Conclusions: SMLT may be considered a therapeutic option in patients with advanced ERM stages and low preoperative visual acuity. Full article

As an important agricultural ecosystem, greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and arsenic (As) mobilization in rice paddy fields have gained significant attention on climate change and food safety. There is a certain correlation between the GHG and As migration in rice paddy fields. The oxidation of methane in paddy fields can provide electrons for the reduction and release of arsenate. Nitrate in rice paddy soil can promote the fixation of As by oxidizing Fe (II) to form iron oxide–As complexes or directly oxidize As (III) to As (V) to reduce the toxicity of As. However, incomplete denitrification of nitrate can lead to the emission of N₂O. This review systematically expounds the research advances, influencing factors and simultaneous mitigation measures of GHG emissions and As mobilization in rice paddy fields. It focuses on discussing the influence mechanisms of soil physical and chemical properties, water management measures, fertilization methods, and the addition of soil conditioner on As migration and GHG emission, and it looks forward to future research directions. It aims to provide a theoretical basis and practical guidance for reducing the risk of As contamination in rice fields, reducing GHG emission, and achieving sustainable development of rice production. Full article

Soil water availability can become one of the decisive factors for crop production. The technology of coinoculation with plant growth-promoting bacteria capable of performing biological nitrogen fixation and producing plant hormones may be an alternative that minimizes the effects of variations in soil water availability. In this context, the objective was to evaluate the phytometric and productive characteristics of cowpea coinoculated with Azospirillum brasilense and Bradyrhizobium japonicum subjected to soil water availability stress. The experiment was carried out in a greenhouse in a completely randomized block design with four replications in a 4 × 4 factorial arrangement: not inoculated; inoculated with B. japonicum; and coinoculated with B. japonicum + A. brasilense and N fertilizer, associated with soil water tensions of 15, 30, 45, and 60 kPa. Statistically, the lowest soil water tension, 15 kPa, and the coinoculated and nitrogen fertilizer treatments resulted in greater development of plant height, stem diameter, and number of leaflets. The shoot dry mass was significantly different for only the soil water stress treatments, which showed a decrease in mass accumulation from 15 kPa to 50.22 kPa. Regarding the SPAD index, soil water tension showed a decreasing linear adjustment 24 days after plant emergence (DAEs), with the lowest value of 51.38 at a tension of 60 kPa. At 39 DAEs, the adjustment was polynomial, with the lowest tension index of 59.62 kPa, corresponding to 44.14. The treatments with the use of inoculants had a significant effect on the SPAD index, in which coinoculation with Bradyrhizobium and Azospirillum brasilense resulted in values equal to those of nitrogen fertilizer and greater than those of uninoculated treatments or those inoculated with Bradyrhizobium. Water tension influenced the total water consumption, and at a tension of 18.13 kPa, the lowest accumulation occurred, equivalent to 2.20 g of dry matter for each liter of irrigated water. Statistically, the lowest soil water tension, 15 kPa, resulted in higher numbers, lengths, and widths of pods. In relation to the length of pods, the uninoculated, inoculated with Bradyrhizobium, and coinoculated with Bradyrhizobium and A. brasilense treatments were superior to nitrogen fertilization. Coinoculation and nitrogen fertilization influenced phytometric characteristics. The productive characteristics of cowpea decreased as the soil water tension increased. These results highlight the importance of leveraging biological solutions, such as coinoculation, to mitigate the adverse effects of water stress on crop yields. In addition, by optimizing these practices, farmers ensure greater resilience in bean production, thereby guaranteeing food security in the face of changing environmental conditions. Full article

Implant treatment in the aesthetic regions of the jaw often requires hard and soft tissue augmentation to ensure optimal prosthetic outcomes. Radiological evaluation with cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) and visual inspection of intraoral photographs are effective for assessing hard tissues but are limited in evaluating soft tissues. This study aimed to objectively evaluate volumetric and dimensional changes of the alveolar ridge, including both hard and soft tissues, following simultaneous horizontal bone augmentation and implant placement using intraoral digital scanning. Intraoral digital scans were obtained at baseline (T0) and at 2 (T1), 6 (T2), and 12 weeks (T3) post-surgery. Scans were superimposed using dedicated imaging software to measure volumetric and cross-sectional changes. Volumetric gain was significant at T1 but decreased significantly from T1 to T2 (p = 0.0006) and from T1 to T3 (p = 0.0002). Cross-sectional analysis showed significant increases in ridge width at T1 at all measured levels, accompanied by a significant vertical decrease at the alveolar crest from T1 to T2 (p = 0.0056) and T3 (p = 0.0106).These findings indicate that horizontal augmentation provides initial volumetric gain but is followed by substantial reduction at the crest, suggesting that rigid fixation may enhance stability; however, controlled clinical trials are required. Full article

Background/Objectives: Minimally invasive spine surgery (MISS) is complex and requires proficiency with a variety of technological and robotic modalities. Acquiring these skills is a long and involved process, often with a steep learning curve. This paper seeks to characterize the state of MISS training in neurosurgical and orthopedic residency programs, focusing on their effectiveness at minimizing substantial learning curves in the field, as well as highlighting potential areas for future growth. Methods: We conducted a scoping review of the PubMed, Scopus, and Embase databases utilizing the PRISMA extension for scoping reviews. Results: Of the 100 studies initially identified, 16 were included in our final analysis. MISS training types could be broadly grouped into four categories: virtual simulation (including AR and VR), physical models, hybrid didactic and simulation, and mentored training. Training with these modalities led to improvements in resident performance across multiple different MISS techniques, including percutaneous pedicle screw fixation, MIS dural repair, MIS-TLIF, MIS-LLIF, MIS-ULBD, microscopic discectomy/disk herniation repair, percutaneous needle placement, and surgical navigation. Specific improvements included reduced error rate, operation time, and fluoroscopy exposure, as well as increased procedural knowledge, accuracy, and confidence. Conclusions: The incorporation of MISS training modalities in spine surgery residency leads to increases in simulated performance and could serve as a means of overcoming significant learning curves in the field. Full article