Polyploidy is one of the most important evolutionary pathways in flowering plants, significantly contributing to their diversification and radiation. However, little is known about how this process has contributed to the high diversity of Euphorbia (Euphorbiaceae), one of the largest genera of flowering plants. Our aim was to determine the incidence of polyploidy and the evolutionary dynamics of genome size (GS) differentiation across the different lineages (sections) of Euphorbia subgen. Esula. Additionally, we investigated whether the latitudinal and elevational distribution of polyploids within the subgenus, as well as differences in the incidence of polyploidy and GS differentiation between annual and perennial species align with the general patterns observed in angiosperms. We estimated the relative genome size (RGS) of over 3,300 populations of 219 species from all 21 sections of E. subgen. Esula. We established new chromosome counts for 41 species and supplemented these with published chromosome numbers. Statistical analyses were performed on the elevational and latitudinal distributions of diploid and polyploid populations. We further investigated the RGS differentiation between annual and perennial species. Finally, we reconstructed the evolutionary dynamics of RGS across the phylogeny of the subgenus Esula. We identified an uneven frequency of polyploidy across different lineages of E. subgen. Esula, but a similar incidence of putative auto- and allopolyploids. Substantial evolutionary down- and up-sizing of RGS was mostly driven by transitions to an annual or perennial life cycle, and to a lesser extent by polyploidy. Annual species have a smaller GS, but the same probability of being polyploid as perennials. Polyploids thrive better at higher latitudes, but at lower elevations, which is consistent with general patterns observed across angiosperms. Our large-scale study provides evidence that multiple polyploidisation events at different temporal scales have triggered diversification within the highly diverse genus Euphorbia, and that the spatial distribution of diploid and polyploid populations follow the general patterns revealed for flowering plants.

ABSTRACTGene flow affects the distribution of genetic variation of a species over time and thus can be crucial for a population's persistence and adaptive capacity. Given the importance of gene flow, it is key to understand the connectivity and genetic differentiation between populations of species with small and segregated breeding populations that are facing population declines, such as many long‐distance migratory birds. In this study, we explored population structure in Hudsonian Godwits (Limosa haemastica) from two geographically distinct breeding areas in the North American sub‐Arctic and two nonbreeding areas in South America using nuclear microsatellites. Despite being spatially and temporally segregated during most of the annual cycle, our results indicate no evidence of population differentiation between breeding populations, nor clustering between individuals from breeding and nonbreeding populations connected by migration. Considering the phenology of the species, godwits from both breeding populations could co‐occur during southward migration and/or throughout the oversummering period, likely in the Las Pampas ecoregion of Argentina. As with many other long‐distance migratory shorebirds, immature godwits stay in their nonbreeding areas until sexual maturity is reached, during which time they can explore, interact, and follow flocks of adults to different nonbreeding areas, thus increasing the chances of mixing between populations. This highlights the importance of recognizing the key role of early life period within the full life cycle of migratory birds for understanding their demography and evolutionary potential.

Animals face declining fitness contributions near the end of life, termed reproductive senescence. Though reproductive senescence frequently stems from physiological inefficiencies, animals making their final attempts at reproduction have the greatest incentive to succeed, raising the question of whether this deterioration is inevitable or if they can compensate to enhance fitness. Here, we examined whether foraging effort serves as behavioural compensation for reproductive senescence in female mule deer (Odocoileus hemionus). We expected that, as animals approach the end of their lifespans, they would increase foraging effort as a means of compensating for declining reproductive output. To assess compensatory foraging, we disentangled two components of lifetime fitness: energy acquisition and allocation. We used animal-borne activity sensors to quantify foraging effort (time devoted to energy acquisition) and followed animals across the annual cycle to measure reproductive output and seasonal fluctuations in stored energy (body fat). Then, we evaluated whether foraging effort mediated the effect of age on allocation to current reproduction and future fitness contributions. For senescing animals, foraging effort positively influenced newborn size, providing evidence of compensation for declining fitness contributions. Moreover, we detected a possible diversion of resources away from future survival and to current reproduction. Senescing animals with high foraging effort accumulated little fat over summer, likely diverting incoming energy to finance current reproduction (lactation) over future fitness. Our work demonstrates that, facing their final opportunities to reproduce, animals may use behaviour to compensate for the physiological declines associated with aging to improve their chances of reproductive success. By evaluating the role of behaviour in fitness components, we reveal processes underlying senescence, and its alleviation, in wild populations.

Assessing the impacts of changing environmental conditions on animal species requires thorough understanding of population dynamics, which can be difficult to estimate when animals aggregate into spatially discrete subpopulations. We used 39 years of fecundity, capture-recapture and abundance data in an integrated metapopulation model to study environmental drivers of demography in a declining migratory bird, the Greenland white-fronted goose (Anser albifrons flavirostris). We found that low fecundity due to earlier spring vegetation phenology on staging areas and increased snow on breeding areas explained metapopulation decline, though the strength of these effects varied by subpopulation. Differential immigration and emigration rates affected local wintering abundance trends, highlighting the importance of quantifying subpopulation-metapopulation dynamics for understanding fragmented animal populations. We provide a framework for extending commonly used integrated population models to a metapopulation framework for testing novel ecological hypotheses about how changing environmental conditions within and among subpopulations drive changes in animal abundance.

The monitoring of total ozone and solar ultraviolet (UV) radiation in Reykjavík, Iceland, has been performed using an automated Brewer spectrophotometer (B199) since August 2021. A manual Dobson spectrophotometer (D050) has been in operation since the 1950s. The aim of the study was to compare the measurements of the two instruments and to assess the variability of total column ozone (TCO) in 2021–2024. The mean absolute and relative difference in the TCO measurements, defined as TCODOB – TCOBRE, was −1.1 Dobson Units (DU, −0.35 %). After applying a correction for the effective temperature of the ozone layer, the difference decreased to −0.8 DU (−0.26 %). The differences exhibited an annual cycle: in autumn and spring, the Dobson spectrophotometer underestimated total ozone, while in February and in summer, a slight overestimation was observed. February discrepancies were likely related to a frequent use of the Global Irradiance (GI) measurement mode in the Brewer spectrophotometer, which was associated with the largest positive differences between the two instruments. A statistically significant correlation was also found between relative differences, sulphur dioxide concentrations and atmospheric optical mass. During the study period, total ozone followed a standard annual course with maxima in spring and minima in autumn.

Birds of prey and photovoltaic installations in an intensively managed agricultural landscape: year-round habitat use across different habitats.

Assessment of organochlorine pesticides in surface seawater: First seasonal variation in the Marchica lagoon, Mediterranean Sea.

Cost-effectiveness of Preventive Transarterial Embolization for Splenic Artery Aneurysm Below the Guideline-Recommended Size Threshold: A Japanese Claims-Based Study.

The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of a 6-week combined power-based resistance training (RT) and short sprint interval training (SSIT), performed in different sequences (SSIT+RT or RT+SSIT), on the lower-body physical fitness of male Judo athletes. Twenty-four young male athletes volunteered for this study and were randomly assigned to one of three groups: SSIT+RT, RT+SSIT, or an active control (CON) group, with eight athletes in each group. The training groups participated in a 6-week intervention, training three times per week during the preparatory phase of annual training cycle. Following the intervention, both the SSIT+RT and RT+SSIT groups showed significant improvements (p = 0.001) in several performance measures including vertical jump (effect size [ES] = 1.58 and 0.85), 20-m linear sprint (ES = -1.22 and -0.53), Agility T-test (ES = -1.12 and -0.46), maximal strength (ES = 0.15 and 0.21), Specific Judo Fitness Test (SJFT; ES = -0.91 and -0.90), peak power (ES = 1.74 and 1.18), mean power (ES = 0.98 and 1.11), and cardiorespiratory fitness (ES = 1.17 and 1.03). In contrast, the CON group did not exhibit any significant changes post-training. Moreover, the SSIT+RT group demonstrated significantly greater improvements compared to the RT+SSIT group in vertical jump (ES = 0.62, p = 0.024), 20-m linear sprint (ES = -0.46, p = 0.031), Agility T-test (ES = -0.34, p = 0.016), and peak power output (ES = 0.79, p = 0.009). Conversely, the RT+SSIT group showed more pronounced strength gains than the SSIT+RT group (ES = 0.14, p = 0.007). In conclusion, it is recommended that incorporating SSIT at the beginning of a training session is more effective for improving jumping ability, sprinting speed, change of direction, and peak power output. Conversely, if the primary goal is to enhance muscular strength, it is advisable to prioritize RT at the start of the session.

Diospyros kaki is a traditional fruit tree species in China, widely regarded as the “wooden grain” and the “iron-walled crop,” reflecting its high nutritional value—rich in sugars, carotene, and various vitamins—along with strong environmental adaptability and excellent storage longevity. Accurate morphological characterization of persimmon phenology across annual growth cycles is essential for both growers and researchers in agricultural management and scientific studies. Although detailed data and relevant standards have been established for a limited number of varieties, such information is still lacking for most local cultivars. In this study, photographic documentation was conducted and the traits of two principal growth stages—vegetative growth (including bud, leaf, and shoot development) and reproductive growth (including inflorescence emergence, flowering, fruit development, and fruit maturity)—were systematically described for six persimmon cultivars from the persimmon germplasm resource repository at the Horticulture Research Institute, Jiangxi Academy of Agricultural Sciences (Nanchang, China), using the BBCH (Biologische Bundesanstalt, Bundessortenamt und Chemische Industrie) scale. Based on the observed and recorded phenological data, an accurate schematic representation of the principal growth stages of six persimmon cultivars in Nanchang was developed. Therefore, this study provides a valuable reference and source of insight for professionals engaged in persimmon cultivation and researchers in the field of persimmon science and technology.

The digital revolution has transformed palaeontology through the development of openly accessible, community-driven databases that underpin some of the most complex and large-scale empirical studies of the history of life on Earth. These systems safeguard high-effort, volunteered data and have revealed major macroevolutionary patterns, including the 'Big 5' mass extinctions. These efforts also represent remarkable global scientific and financial investment, which is continually required to support the next generation of databases and associated research. Here we conducted a survey of 118 palaeontological and allied Earth science databases, analysing their diversity dynamics, including origination and extinction rates. We show that approximately 85% of all community-curated databases have lifespans of less than 15 years, putting decades of investment at risk. We show that database creation effort has increased in the past 30 years, with peaks in database loss related to 5-year funding cycles. We advocate for strategies to enhance database longevity, including sustained funding models, stronger institutional support and modular backend architectures that better link international community databases to each other and to fossil specimens.

Clinical outcomes and cost-utility analysis of programmable versus non-programmable ventriculoperitoneal shunts in communicating hydrocephalus: A population-based study.

Summary Geocenter motion, defined as the displacement of Earth’s center of mass relative to its center of figure, is crucial for maintaining the International Terrestrial Reference Frame origin and quantifying large-scale mass redistribution. However, whether observing geocenter motion by tracking satellite orbits or inferring it using geophysical models, accurately acquiring such subtle motions imposes stringent requirements on the consistency and precision of both tracking data and geophysical models. This study improves geocenter motion estimates derived from the combination of GRACE/GRACE-FO time-variable gravity (TVG) and Ocean Bottom Pressure (OBP) models (the GRACE-OBP method) in two ways. First, we apply a forward modelling technique to mitigate land–ocean leakage in GRACE/GRACE-FO TVG fields, which demonstrably outperforms empirical coastline buffer-zone corrections in controlled simulation experiments. Second, we introduce the Bayesian Three-Cornered Hat (BTCH) method to optimally combine geocenter series derived from multiple GRACE solutions and two independent OBP models (ECCO2 and MPIOM), producing an improved geocenter product without requiring a ground-truth reference. Uncertainty analysis shows that the noise level is governed primarily by the GRACE solution, and that BTCH provides a clearer advantage over equal-weighted averaging when the number of input series is limited, reducing the noise level by about 30 per cent. After restoring atmospheric and oceanic contributions, our improved geocenter series shows good agreement with the CSR SLR-derived geocenter product. Although uncertainty levels vary among individual solutions, the estimated annual and secular trend signals are broadly consistent and show limited sensitivity to the choice of GRACE TVG solution and OBP model. Using the improved geocenter series, we revisit the annual geocenter oscillation and its drivers; the results indicate that cryospheric mass variability and land-ocean mass exchange (i.e. sea-level fingerprints) provide non-negligible contributions to the annual geocenter cycle and improve consistency with observations. Finally, the improved geocenter series yields the lowest uncertainty in degree-1 mass variations, with a global RMS of 0.55 mm. Incorporating these degree-1 terms into mass budget assessments yields secular trends of 38.8 Gt/yr for the Antarctic Ice Sheet and 0.57 mm/yr for global mean ocean mass, highlighting the need for accurate geocenter corrections to support reliable long-term climate monitoring.

Migratory birds can carry parasites thousands of miles, and therefore their parasite communities may provide an informative means of ascertaining the breeding and wintering locations of their hosts. However, avian parasites (particularly haemosporidians) are rarely used for this purpose because their usefulness is conditional upon knowing where and when birds acquired them during their annual cycles. In this study, we evaluated haemosporidian assemblages among non-resident black-capped chickadees (Poecile atricapillus), which occasionally "irrupt" south from parts of their northern distributional range to spend winters in the mid-Atlantic and Midwest regions of the United States. Specifically, we compared haemosporidian prevalence and lineage diversity from irruptive black-capped chickadees to those of resident Carolina chickadees (Poecile carolinensis) and black-capped × Carolina hybrids at 4 southeastern Pennsylvania locations, where most irruptive black-capped chickadees could be genetically and phenotypically identified among local birds. We hoped to (1) gauge whether certain haemosporidian lineages could help identify irruptive individuals among populations of otherwise sedentary black-capped chickadees and (2) roughly estimate where these irruptive birds hatched or bred. Irruptive birds had higher rates of haemosporidian infection than residents, and irruptive birds exclusively harbored a single Plasmodium lineage (BT7). Literature review suggests that lineage BT7 is widespread across the Northern hemisphere but is unlikely to be transmitted between chickadees in our study location. Thus, the presence of lineages such as BT7 may be useful for assessing the composition of seasonally sympatric bird populations with different migratory strategies or at least for identifying non-resident individuals within these populations.

Abstract. Estimating evapotranspiration (ET) beyond the local or point scale is critical for water resources and ecosystem studies. Remote sensing offers a unique advantage by enabling ET monitoring at larger spatial scales than in-situ instruments. By leveraging relationships between surface biophysical parameters and terrestrial thermal emission, continuous ET can be retrieved across diverse landscapes. Herein, we apply the EVapotranspiration Assessment from SPAce (EVASPA) contextual tool over southern France, using MODIS-derived land surface temperature/emissivity (LST/E), NDVI and albedo products. The dataset spans 2004–2024, yielding 972 instantaneous ET estimates. The EVASPA ensemble integrates multiple member outputs generated from: (1) alternative formulations of evaporative fraction (EF) and ground heat flux (G), and (2) different LST and radiation inputs. Evaluation against flux tower data shows that even a simple ensemble average provides reasonable agreement, though individual member performance varies substantially. Uncertainty analyses were also performed where we looked at how each of the distinct variables (i.e., LST, radiation, EF algorithms, and G flux methods) influenced the modelled ETs. The analyses reveal that LST inputs and EF formulations are the dominant sources of variability, with seasonal dependence – absolute uncertainties peak during summer (tending to follow the annual cycle of radiation) and are partly influenced by satellite characteristics. Generally, the satellite's overpass time introduces more incertitude to the gap filled daily ET estimates compared to the LST/LSE separation methods. As such, the uncertainties in LST could, by extension, be partially attributed to uncertainties in the radiation data during acquisition time. Radiation inputs also contribute to the variations in the ensemble, while G flux methods exert comparatively minor influence, especially for estimates derived from TERRA morning overpasses. Overall, our results demonstrate that ensemble-based contextual modelling can provide both reliable flux estimates and a meaningful uncertainty spread. By allowing optimal member selection according to surface and climatic conditions, ensemble modelling using EVASPA enhances ET retrieval robustness thus providing more resilient and informative estimates. Such ensemble frameworks are especially valuable for forthcoming missions like TRISHNA, where consistent and accurate, high-resolution ET monitoring will be crucial for operational water and ecosystem management.

The closure of the surface energy balance (SEB) in complex terrain remains a persistent challenge. We present a multi-site analysis based on the i-Box network in the Inn Valley, Austria, to characterize the SEB residual (Res) normalized by net radiation (Rn) across different conditions. Diurnal cycles of Res/Rn and turbulent fluxes show a significant residual, positive (i.e., an energy gain) during the day and negative (i.e., an energy loss) during the night. Large Res/Rn is observed during nighttime stable conditions, and minimum values are found under convective mixing. Annual cycles show a distinct pattern for most of the sites, with warmer months displaying the smallest Res/Rn during daytime and largest values during nighttime, while colder months are associated with the opposite behaviour. The study examines the influence of atmospheric stability, turbulent mixing and flow conditions on Res/Rn. Results reveal that unstable conditions, associated with higher vertical mixing, tend to reduce the magnitude of Res/Rn. In contrast, stable conditions are linked to larger residuals. Especially for certain stations, foehn events and valley wind days introduce additional variability. Our findings thus point out not only the need to account for atmospheric stability, turbulence structure, and flow regimes, but also the site-specific response of Res/Rn to the above conditions which highlights the importance of collecting spatially distributed complex terrain observations.

The purpose of the study is to identify the key components of specialized training during the pre-competition period in qualified saber fencers. Research methods and organization. A total of 12 athletes from the Russian national saber fencing team were observed. The research program included: analysis of scientific and methodological literature on the topic; analysis of the competition calendar with identification of events of varying significance throughout the season; observation of training and competitive processes with recording of match outcomes; analysis of athletes’ actions during bouts; and analysis of coaches’ and athletes’ opinions through a structured questionnaire. Additionally, mathematical and statistical methods were employed for data processing. Research results and conclusions. In constructing a training plan for saber fencers leading up to major competitions within the annual cycle, it is essential to operate with core load indicators—volume and intensity—applied appropriately to each training phase. When planning training intensity, in addition to the motor component, psychological strain must be taken into account, given its interdependence with physical load. Rational management of fencers’ sports preparation contributes significantly to optimizing competitive performance at the peak of the seasonal cycle. Training planning for qualified saber fencers during the immediate pre-competition phase should be based on eight key factors: technique-tactical skill development exercises; physical and functional readiness of the fencer; readiness to compete under match conditions; intensity of training exercises; number of bouts per day; competitive effectiveness; minimum acceptable number of bouts per day; characteristics of recovery processes.

The purpose of the study is to experimentally evaluate the effectiveness of the staged technical training methodology in swimming for qualified pentathletes within the structure of the annual training cycle. Research methods and organization. The study was conducted in the form of a pedagogical experiment involving 20 athletes aged 14–17 years (Category I – Candidate for Master of Sport). A phased methodology, based on the use of biomechanical analysis, video feedback tools, and pedagogical supervision, was implemented in the training process of the experimental group. The dynamics of technical and biomechanical indicators of swimming technique, as well as the performance of the swimming stage of the polyathlon, were evaluated. Research results and conclusions. In the experimental group, a statistically significant improvement was observed in stroke length, average swimming speed, and the dynamic efficiency index, accompanied by a simultaneous decrease in stroke frequency; in the control group, the changes were limited. Stable correlations between technique parameters and athletic performance were established. The data obtained confirm the effectiveness of the developed methodology and its practical significance for the training system of qualified pentathletes.

Social innovation education has become an increasingly prominent means through which higher education institutions seek to create positive societal impact. One approach is through place-based learning, in which students are enabled to achieve learning outcomes through experiential work in the community. Although addressing real-world problems is widely regarded as beneficial for participant organizations, communities, and learners, less is understood about how such engagement is transformed into shared social value. Our research explored how place-based learning in social innovation education creates shared social value. Drawing on an analysis of 82 projects conducted across six annual cycles of place-based learning, we develop a model of social value co-creation that illustrates how educators’ facilitation of collaboration between key stakeholders (practitioners, educators, and students) lies at the heart of successful social innovation education. The model captures a contextualized understanding of the different perspectives involved in place-based learning, thereby advancing understanding of the co-creation of social value and its significance for both researchers and educators in social innovation education.

Individual repeatable variation in behaviour, that is 'personality', is hypothesised to mediate how animals respond to environmental stress. However, temporal variability in local conditions and spatial constraints across the annual cycle may affect individual responses to environmental change and the subsequent impact on fitness. Here we tested how the relationships among personality, stress exposures and fitness may vary between the breeding and wintering periods in the black-legged kittiwake (Rissa tridactyla), a long-lived migratory seabird inhabiting the rapidly changing Arctic. We conducted a long-term (2013-2021) study to explore how personality, represented by boldness, was related to feather corticosterone (fCORT), an indicator of stress exposure during feather growth. To examine temporal variation in this relationship, we focused on feathers grown during the breeding, post-breeding and pre-breeding stages, three periods when seabirds experience varying spatial constraints. We studied the covariation in fCORT, boldness and two fitness measures (chick survival and adult return rates) while correcting for two major proxies of resource availability: the subpolar gyre and Atlantic water influx (AWI) We observed a season-dependent effect of boldness: 'bolder' individuals had lower fCORT concentrations than 'shyer' conspecifics during breeding and post-breeding but higher levels prior to breeding. Higher fCORT during breeding occurred during years of low AWI and correlated with lower chick survival, while higher fCORT prior to breeding correlated with lower likelihood of return to the colony. Personality did not mediate inter-annual relationships between fCORT and environmental measures or fCORT and fitness. Our results highlight that while the negative effects of environmentally induced stress on fitness appeared to be ubiquitous across personality types, how and when bold and shy individuals experience stress is highly context dependent, reflecting different spatial and temporal constraints during the breeding and wintering stages.