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Giant rockslides are widespread and sensitive to hydrological forcing, especially in climate change scenarios. They creep slowly for centuries and then can fail catastrophically posing major threats to society. However, the mechanisms regulating the slow-to-fast transition toward their catastrophic collapse remain elusive. We couple laboratory experiments on natural rockslide shear zone material and in situ observations to provide a scale-independent demonstration that short-term pore fluid pressure variations originate a full spectrum of creep styles, modulated by slip-induced undrained conditions. Shear zones respond to pore pressure increments by impulsive acceleration and dilatancy, causing spontaneous deceleration followed by sustained steady-rate creep. Increasing pore pressure results in high creep rates and eventual collapse. Laboratory experiments quantitatively capture the in situ behavior of giant rockslides and lay physically-based foundations to understand the collapse of giant rockslides. Giant rockslides creep slowly for centuries and then can fail catastrophically, posing major threats to society. Here, the authors use observational and experimental evidence to quantitatively capture the full spectrum of giant rockslide behaviour until collapse, that is modulated by hydro-mechanical response to short-term fluid pressure perturbations.

A multiproxy methodology has been employed to characterise two granite anchors discovered on the seabed near the island of Nueva Tabarca (Alicante, Southeast Spain). According to the significant archaeological context where they were found, the studied anchors can be dated from the Roman ages (late Republican period). One of the most interesting aspects is the absence of regional geological outcrops with rocks compatible with the granite used in the production of the anchor, which shows a foreign origin consistent with the connection of the anchor to maritime transport across the Mediterranean Sea. The lack of precise information about the artifact’s origin underscores the interest and need for the application of petrological techniques to determine its provenance. The methodology utilised encompasses five distinct techniques: (1) non-destructive textural analysis using X-ray microcomputed tomography; (2) K–Ar dating; (3) petrological characterisation through optical microscopy; (4) geochemical characterisation using X-ray fluorescence and atomic absorption spectrometry. The results allow for a comparison of the anchor rock’s characteristics with various granite outcrops along the Mediterranean coasts (Eastern, Central, and Western sectors), suggesting potential source areas based on petrological compatibility with the material under study. The findings point to the origin of the Nueva Tabarca granite anchor being granite outcrops in Southern Italy (Calabria), reinforcing the connection between the Spanish southeastern coasts and Southern Italy. These results highlight the utility and significance of multiproxy petrological methodologies in the geoarchaeological study of decontextualised artifacts.

This study assesses the static stability of the artificial Sabereebi Cave Monastery southeast of Georgia's capital, Tbilisi. The cliff into which these Georgian-Orthodox caverns, chapels, and churches were carved consists of a five-layered sequence of weak sedimentary rock—all of which bear a considerable failure potential and, consequently, pose the challenge of preservation to geologists, engineers, and archaeologists. In the first part of this study, we present a strategy to process point cloud data from drone photogrammetry as well as from laser scanners acquired in- and outside the caves into high-resolution CAD objects that can be used for numerical modeling ranging from macro- to micro-scale. In the second part, we explore four distinct series of static elasto-plastic finite element stability models featuring different levels of detail, each of which focuses on specific geomechanical scenarios such as classic landsliding due to overburden, deformation of architectural features as a result of stress concentration, material response to weathering, and pillar failure due to vertical load. With this bipartite approach, the study serves as a comprehensive 3D stability assessment of the Sabereebi Cave Monastery on the one hand; on the other hand, the established procedure should serve as a pilot scheme, which could be adapted to different sites in the future combining non-invasive and relatively cost-efficient assessment methods, data processing and hazard estimation.HighlightsOne single high-resolution 3D FEM model allowing for failure zone identification on macro- to micro-scaleStrategy to process point cloud data from drone photogrammetry and laser scanners into composite FEM-suitable CAD objectsStrategy application to a real-life geoarchaeological case studyDemonstration of versatile FEM model usage for different geotechnical questionsFailure potential estimation across an underground compound consisting of seven caves and sub-caves

This paper analyses the mineralogical composition, texture, and structure of a stalactite sampled from the city-wall storerooms of the Nueva Tabarca fortress (southeast Spain). This speleothem presents an uncommon mineral assemblage: aragonite, brucite, gypsum, silica, and halite. Internally, it shows complex structure: (1) a central soda-straw composed by aragonite; (2) an external puff-pastry cone-crust formed preferentially by aragonite and brucite; and (3) an internal branching of coralloids, showing a subtle layering between brucite and aragonite. Gypsum, halite, and silica locate in the outer coating of the cone-crust. The sequent mineral precipitation sequence has been established: aragonite > brucite > gypsum/silica > halite. Speleothem formation is directly related to the chemical weathering of the rocks and mortars used as building materials of the city-wall. Brucite precipitates has been always linked to the presence of MgO-based geomaterials. However, the lack of these compounds as building materials in Nueva Tabarca fortress makes this investigation a unique example of brucite precipitation. PHREEQC calculations showed that interaction between pore waters and the minerals of mortar aggregates (dolomite, pyroxene, and amphibole) leads to rich-magnesium solutions. Evaporation modelling of lixiviated waters describes the precipitation of the mineral assemblage of the brucite-aragonite speleothems.

Lava tubes formed during the 2021 Tajogaite eruption on La Palma (Canary Islands, Spain) provide a rare opportunity to investigate the earliest stages of microbial colonization in a newly created subterranean volcanic environment. Although microbial communities in volcanic terrains have been widely studied, the first colonizers of newly formed lava tubes and their interactions with new mineral surfaces remain poorly understood. Here, we combined microscopy, mineralogy, stable isotope analysis, culture-dependent techniques, and 16S rRNA gene high-throughput sequencing to characterize mineral substrates, microenvironmental parameters and pioneer microbial communities 12–24 months after lava tube formation. Microbial assemblages were dominated by bacteria from the Actinomycetota, Bacillota , and Pseudomonadota phyla, together with archaea from the Methanobacteriota phylum. Organic debris from animals (notably seabirds and rodents) likely contributed to early microbial seeding and community development, as indicated by the detection of host-associated and opportunistic bacteria (e.g., Staphylococcus , Sphingomonas , Pseudomonas ). Biofilm-like structures and extracellular polymeric substances were observed in association with sodium-rich sulfate and carbonate minerals, suggesting incipient microbe-mineral interactions during early mineral weathering. Archaeal-enriched communities adapted to highly saline and oligotrophic substrates (e.g., Halostagnicola , Halonotius , and Halorubrum ) in some of these nascent tubes further support environmental filtering by microhabitat geochemistry and mineralogical context during early community assembly. Our findings indicate that early microbial colonization is initiated by stochastic seeding processes (via aerosols, animals, or atmospheric inputs), whereas environmental stressors related to volcanic degassing, ventilation, and extreme geochemical conditions act as strong deterministic filters that shape the final community structure in newly formed basaltic lava tubes, as reflected by the significant role of δ 13 C–CO 2 . Graphical abstract

Background: Nowadays, to improve animal production sustainably, the zootechnical sector is exploring novel, functional ingredients, such as seaweed. This study investigated the functional properties of Fucus vesiculosus and their persistence after simulated digestion. Methods: F. vesiculosus was nutritionally characterized (AOAC methods) and digested in vitro through the INFOGEST protocol. The polyphenol, flavonoid, and phlorotannin contents of the samples were analyzed through colorimetric assays. The antioxidant properties were evaluated using ABTS assay and the growth inhibition capacity against Escherichia coli using the microdilution method. The cytotoxic activity and anti-inflammatory properties were evaluated on mouse peritoneal macrophages using crystal violet assay and the gene expression of IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, and iNOS. Results: F. vesiculosus demonstrated high levels of dietary fiber (47.36%) and protein (13.99%). Significant levels of polyphenols (6428.98 µg TAE/g), flavonoids (5171.31 µg CE/g), and phlorotannins (2.10 mg PGE/g) were detected. These bioactive compounds allowed for strong antioxidant activity (85.96% ABTS+ scavenging) and E. coli growth inhibition (17%). Simulated digestion minimally impacted the content of bioactive compounds and their associated functional properties. F. vesiculosus exhibited a protective effect against oxidative stress in macrophages, downregulating pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α). Conclusions: These findings support the potential of F. vesiculosus as a functional feed ingredient for livestock, maintaining its beneficial properties even after digestion.

Weaning is a critical period for calves, affecting their well-being, health, and productivity. The present study analyzed 61 calves to evaluate the effects of weaning as a stress factor by monitoring hematological, biochemical, and immune parameters. Blood samples were collected at the start of weaning at 130–135 days (T0), 3 (T1) and 7 (T2) days later, and finally at 150 days of age. The results showed changes in the levels of cortisol, inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, INF-γ and IL-8) and acute-phase proteins. Alterations in white blood cells were also observed, such as neutrophilia and lymphopenia, which are typical signs of an adverse stress response. Biochemically, the switch from milk to solid food caused imbalances in protein, cholesterol, and triglyceride levels, indicating a relevant metabolic adaptation. Serum electrophoresis showed a decrease in albumin and an increase in γ-globulins, a sign of immune maturation. The results suggest that weaning is one of the most important stressors for calves, with both physiological and immune effects. However, this practice is necessary for breeding productivity. Future research could investigate the role of genetics and environment in weaning resilience to further optimize breeding practices.

Information regarding the relationship between animal welfare (AW) and antimicrobial use (AMU) in dairy cows is limited. The current study aimed to investigate this relationship on Italian farms and to identify potential targets of AMU reduction. The study was performed at 79 Italian dairy farms housing over 15,000 cows during 2019. AW was scored with an on-farm protocol assessing farm management and staff training, housing systems, and animal-based measures. AMU was estimated using a defined daily dose per kg of animal biomass (DDDAit/biomass) for Italy. The median AW score was 73% (range: 56.6–86.8%). The median AMU was 4.8 DDDAit/biomass (range: 0–11.8). No relationship between the total AMU and AW was found. Management and staff training were positively associated with the use of the European Medicines Agency’s category B antimicrobials, which are critical for human medicine, and with intramammary products for dry cow therapy. In those farms, antimicrobial stewardship should aim to reduce the category B antimicrobials and selective dry cow therapy. Our results underline the importance of implementing both an integrated monitoring system (AW, AMU, etc.) and antimicrobial stewardship tailored to the specific needs of each dairy farm.

Introduction: The recovery room (RR) is a hospital area where patients are monitored in the early postoperative period before being transferred to the surgical ward or other specialized units. The utilization of scores in the RR context facilitates the assignment of patients to the appropriate ward and directs necessary monitoring. Some scoring systems allow nurses to select patients who can be discharged directly to their homes. Aim and methods: The aim of this narrative review was to describe and compare the scoring systems employed to discharge postoperative patients from RR, with a focus on item characteristics. Results: Nine scoring systems were identified and discussed: the “Aldrete Score System” and its modified version, the “Respiration, Energy, Alertness, Circulation, Temperature Score”, the “Post Anesthetic Discharge Scoring System”, the “White and Song Score”, the “Readiness for Discharge Assessment Tool”, the “Anesthesia and Perioperative Medicine Service Checklist”, the “Post-Anesthetic Care Tool”, the “Post-operative Quality Recovery Scale”, and the “Discerning Post Anesthesia Readiness for Transition” instrument. Discussion and conclusions: To obtain a comprehensive overview, the items included in the scoring systems were compared. Despite the availability of guidelines for patients’ discharge readiness from the RR, there is no universally recommended scoring system. Next-generation scores must be improved to ease their use, minimize errors, and increase safety. The main goals of the scores included in this narrative review were to be simple to use, feasible, intuitive, comprehensive, and flexible. However, these goals frequently conflict because patient assessment takes time, and a smart and comprehensive score may not consider some clinical parameters that may be crucial for the discharge decision. Therefore, further research should be conducted on this topic.

Transportation is a recurring event in a farm animal’s life, and it is considered one of the main stressors with possible negative repercussions for both the health and welfare of farm animals. The objective of the present study was to examine the effect of transportation on some blood variables of 45 young bulls moved from their original farms to a livestock collection centre. Transportation took no more than 8 h and was carried out between January and March 2021. Blood samples were taken before transportation (T0), upon arrival at the collection centre (T1), and 7 days after arrival (T2). Samples were processed for blood cell count, clinical chemistry analyses, serum protein electrophoresis, and the evaluation of innate immunity parameters. The results showed a typical stress leukogram with neutrophilia and changes in the neutrophil:lymphocyte ratio. No significant alterations were observed in either serum proteins or pro-inflammatory cytokines. Significant, albeit transient, alterations were observed in some clinical chemistry parameters after transportation, which could be accounted for by stressful conditions such as the transportation itself and handling and mixing with other animals. Our results indicated that the adopted transportation conditions only slightly affected the blood variables under study with no significant impact on animal welfare.