bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Patient and clinician satisfaction with home parenteral nutrition intestinal failure telemedicine consultations: A survey of clinicians and patients
Authors: Sasegbon Ayodele , Woods Amy , Vourloitis Francesca , Barrett Maria , Cuerda Cristina , Jeppesen Palle B. , Joly Francisca , Lamprecht Georg , Mundi Manpreet , Szczepanek Kinga , Van Gossum Andre , Vanuytsel Tim , Wanten Geert , Pironi Loris , Lal Simon
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Despite the widespread use of telemedicine to assess patients with intestinal failure (IF) receiving home parenteral nutrition (HPN), satisfaction with remote consultation methods has not been comprehensively assessed. Here, we assessed patient and clinician attitudes to telephone and video IF consultations.

Methods

Telemedicine questionnaires were designed and distributed in paper form to patients with IF receiving HPN under the care of a UK national IF reference center and electronically to IF clinicians in Europe, North America, Australia, and New Zealand.

Results

Seventy‐eight patients (53 women and 25 men) and 110 clinicians agreed to complete the questionnaires. Sixty seven percent of patients who had telephone consultations and 50% of patients who had video consultations were satisfied with their consultations. Forty nine percent and 83% of patients who had telephone and video consultations, respectively, felt they were of the same standard as their face‐to‐face consultations. Despite 60% of clinicians feeling telemedicine training would be useful, 55% of clinicians stated they mostly or always met all of the needs of their patients via telephone consultations, whereas 96% of clinicians felt similarly for video consultations (P = 0.002). A total of 33% and 57% of clinicians felt telephone and video consultations, respectively, were of the same standard as face‐to‐face consultations (P = 0.004).

Conclusion

This study comprehensively assesses attitudes to IF telemedicine consultations. Our data show that a large proportion of patients and clinicians are satisfied with IF telephone and video consultations. However, there is an unmet need amongst clinicians for telemedicine training.
Tall Tales or Success Stories? A Scrutiny of the Business Incubation Policy and Landscape in India
Authors: Gupta Sonali , Sunder D. L.
Published: February 2025

Business incubators (BIs) have been in existence since the 1950s, and they claim to assist early‐stage entrepreneurs to convert ideas into sustainable enterprises by providing resources like space, mentoring, business services, networks, and capital. Governments across the world promote BI as a policy tool, but a deep dive into the literature shows limited empirical evidence about their effectiveness. With increasing investment of public funds into incubators, it is necessary to assess their performance and success in meeting the objective of enabling new ventures. Informational roadblocks in understanding the state of business incubation can lead to convenient assumptions that all is well with the policy and practice of business incubation. This article reviews the evolution of policy, practice, and literature on Business Incubation in India and finds a vacuum with respect to systematic studies and understanding of business incubation as a process. The paper concludes by advocating for an evidence‐based approach to policy formulation and emphasizes the need for rigorous evaluation and research to ascertain the true impact of BIs on India's entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Bridging Realities for Global Sustainable Development: A Call for International Comparative Public Administration Research
Authors: Bouckaert Geert
Published: February 2025

Comparative public administration should focus on increasingly different systems (topos). Comparisons should also look at possible futures, including utopias (chronos). The main driver should be to realize the Sustainable Development Goals.
Effect of different UV absorbers on the aging performance of poly (butylene adipate‐co‐terephthalate)/poly (propylene carbonate) degradable mulch films
Authors: Lin Jun , Meng Yaming , Chai Xicun , He Chunxia
Published: February 2025

Biodegradable agricultural mulch films composed of poly (butylene adipate‐co‐terephthalate) (PBAT) and poly (propylene carbonate) (PPC) were manufactured using the extrusion technique. Integrated three types of UV absorbers C81, UV‐944, and UV‐326. The PBAT and PBAT/PPC mulch films acted as control samples. Preliminary performance assessments indicated that incorporating PPC significantly enhances the tensile strength of the PBAT mulch film. Notably, C81 increased the absorbance capacity of the PBAT/PPC mulch film within the 315~350 nm spectrum, whereas both C81 and UV‐944 improved the light transmittance characteristics of the mulch film. After 21‐day UV aging text, the tensile strength of the mulch films containing C81 and UV‐944 surpassed 15 MPa, with elongation at break exceeding 300%. This suggests that C81 and UV‐944 enhance the ultraviolet resistance of the mulch films. Furthermore, following 21‐day artificial climate aging test, the tensile strength of the PBAT/PPC mulch film with C81 also exceeded 15 MPa, showcasing not only exceptional UV resistance but also the ability to mitigate effects from artificial climate aging. SEM indicated that the ultraviolet absorbers hinder the aging process of the mulch films by minimizing the generation of flaky materials, thus safeguarding the mechanical integrity of the PBAT/PPC film.

Highlights

UV absorbers enhance the mechanical properties of the PBAT/PPC mulch films after aging.

C81 increased the absorbance capacity of the PBAT/PPC mulch film.

The PBAT/PPC mulch film containing C81 exhibits the best performance.
Development of sustainable polymer composite with agro‐industrial residue for biomedical applications
Authors: Ali Shafahat , Deiab Ibrahim , Pervaiz Salman , Eltaggaz Abdelkrem
Published: February 2025

The excessive use of plastics has raised significant environmental concerns, including harm to marine ecosystems and pollution. PLA, a widely used bioplastic, suffers from low toughness and thermal stability, limiting its industrial applications. This study addresses these limitations by incorporating soybean hulls, a biodegradable agricultural waste, as a filler in PLA/PBAT blends to develop sustainable composites for 3D printing. Advanced optimization techniques, including grey relational analysis (GRA) and Taguchi design of experiments (TGRA), were used to optimize printing parameters. Results showed that the raster angle had the most significant influence on mechanical properties (70%). Validation tests using optimized parameters demonstrated a 23% decrease in tensile strength with 10 wt% soybean hulls but a 35% increase in flexural strength and only a 3% reduction in impact strength. These properties make the composite suitable for biomedical and rigid packaging applications. Scanning electron microscopy revealed voids, pullouts, and reduced interlayer adhesion, providing insights into the material's microstructure. This study highlights the innovative use of agricultural waste in 3D printing, combining eco‐friendly composites with advanced optimization techniques to improve sustainability and mechanical performance.

Highlights

Biodegradable PLA/PBAT composites with soybean hull made via FDM were studied.

Raster angle influences 70% of mechanical property variations in composites.

Adding 10% soybean hull increased flexural strength by 35% and reduced tensile by 23%.

Grey relational analysis optimized printing improves composite properties.

Eco‐friendly composites could replace petroleum plastics for biomedical purposes.
Photoelectric Properties of the g‐ZnO/β‐Ga2O3 Heterojunction
Authors: Xue Ruixin , Zhang Jie , Liu Huan , Guan Yuqin , Ha Sihua
Published: February 2025

Heterojunction structures significantly influence the performance and function of β‐Ga2O3‐based photodetectors through their unique material combination and interface control. The electronic structure, photoelectric properties, and mechanism of the g‐ZnO/β‐Ga2O3 heterojunction are analyzed using the first‐principles calculations. The results show that the g‐ZnO/β‐Ga2O3 heterojunction is a direct bandgap semiconductor, featuring an internal electric field directed from the g‐ZnO layer to the β‐Ga2O3 layer. It demonstrates strong light absorption and an electric field response in the UV range of 200–310 nm. The conduction and valence band offsets are 0.731 and 2.231 eV, respectively, indicating efficient charge transport in the heterojunction. The mechanism for photogenerated carrier transfer follows an S‐type heterojunction, which meets the requirements for photocatalytic water decomposition in the pH range of 0–14. In summary, the g‐ZnO/β‐Ga2O3 heterojunction is a promising photocatalytic material for optoelectronic components and photocatalysis.
Additive Manufacturing of Organic Electrochemical Transistors: Methods, Device Architectures, and Emerging Applications
Authors: Granelli Roberto , Kovács‐Vajna Zsolt M. , Torricelli Fabrizio
Published: February 2025

Organic electrochemical transistors (OECTs) are key devices in a large set of application fields including bioelectronics, neuromorphics, sensing, and flexible electronics. This review explores the advancements in additive manufacturing techniques accounting for printing technologies, device architectures, and emerging applications. The promising applications of printed OECTs, ranging from biochemical sensors to neuromorphic computing are examined, showcasing their versatility. Despite significant advancements, ongoing challenges persist, such as material‐related issues, inconsistencies in film homogeneity, and the scalability of integration processes. This review identifies these critical obstacles and offers targeted solutions and future research directions aimed at enhancing the performance and reliability of fully‐printed OECTs. By addressing these challenges, the aim of this study is to facilitate the development of next‐generation OECTs that can meet the demands of emerging applications in sustainable and intelligent electronic and bioelectronic systems.
Stabilized Extracellular Vesicle Formulations for Inhalable Dry Powder Development
Authors: Jansen Eva M. , van der Koog Luke , Elferink Robin A.B. , Rafie Karim , Nagelkerke Anika , Gosens Reinoud , Frijlink Henderik W. , Hinrichs Wouter L.J.
Published: February 2025

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is the third leading cause of death worldwide, with a significant impact on low‐ and middle‐income countries, making it a critical challenge for global health equity and sustainable development goals. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are emerging as a promising treatment for COPD, but conventional storage at −80 °C limits their global accessibility. This study explores alternative storage methods to enhance EV stability and accessibility, particularly in low‐resource settings. EVs from lung fibroblasts are subjected to freezing, freeze drying, and spray drying with inulin or mannitol. The biophysical properties are evaluated by their capacity to support lung organoid formation. Inulin proves effective in stabilizing EVs, maintaining functionality after freezing at −20 °C for 12 weeks. Freeze drying with inulin preserves EV stability at 20 °C and 43% relative humidity. In contrast, EVs with mannitol exhibit aggregation and reduce bio‐functionality. Additionally, spray drying EVs with inulin and leucine produces a dry powder suitable for inhalation, maintaining biophysical properties and functionality for 12 weeks. The powder demonstrates efficient lung deposition using the Cyclops inhaler. These findings suggest inulin as a stabilizer for EVs, eliminating the need for ultra‐low temperature storage and improving the practicality of EV‐based inhalable therapies.
From Dreaming of Freedom to Freedom Dreaming: Developing Students' Abolitionist Praxis Through Interdisciplinary Literacy Instruction
Authors: González Rubén A. , Jones Brittany L.
Published: February 2025

This qualitative study examines how elementary students of Color develop and enact an abolitionist praxis as part of a Freedom Dreaming literacy unit. The analysis of focus‐group interviews elucidates how, after learning about freedom dreaming and the abolition of prisons and police, students positioned historical anti‐carceral activism as something occurring in the present and students leveraged their historical and contemporary understanding of anti‐carceral activism to enact their own freedom dreaming toward abolishing carcerality within their school. Our findings reveal the transformative potential of centering freedom dreaming and the abolition of prisons and police in elementary literacy instruction.
Poorly differentiated soft tissue sarcoma located in the craniodorsal mediastinum in two dogs and a literature review
Authors: Cifre Pallicer Cristina , Di Bella Andrea , Kelly Darren , Shihab Nadia , Karpozilou Athina
Published: February 2025

Soft tissue sarcoma represents a heterogeneous group of mesenchymal tumours that arise from connective tissues. Two dogs presented with a single mass located in the craniodorsal aspect of the mediastinum. Radiographs and a computed tomography scan performed in both cases revealed a large craniodorsal mediastinal/paravertebral mass associated with rib lysis and invasion of the vertebral canal. Immunohistochemistry performed on biopsies from the mass in Dog 1 and Dog 2 confirmed a poorly differentiated soft tissue sarcoma. To our knowledge, in the veterinary literature, this is the first report of poorly differentiated soft tissue sarcoma located in the craniodorsal mediastinum. Despite being a rare presentation in both humans and dogs, soft tissue sarcoma should be considered as a differential diagnosis in dogs presenting with a mass in the craniodorsal mediastinum. This case report's purpose is to describe the presence of mediastinal craniodorsal sarcomas and raise awareness of this disease process in dogs.
Firework injuries around New Year’s Eve - epidemiology, injury patterns and risk factors
Authors: Wegmann Helena , Mayer Steffi , Blankenburg Notker , Zimmermann Peter , Schulz Torsten , Lacher Martin , Kleber Christian , Osterhoff Georg
Published: February 2025

Introduction

This study aims to determine key demographic and behavioural risk factors contributing to firework-related injuries and their outcomes.

Methods

A retrospective study was conducted on pediatric and adult patients treated for firework-related injuries at the University Hospital Leipzig from December 28th to January 3rd over 10 years (2013–2023). Data were collected on demographics, injury details, weather conditions and classification of fireworks.

Results

A total of 155 patients (mean age 24 years, 80% male) were included. Injuries predominantly occurred within two hours after midnight, and all incidents involved violation of safety regulations. Most injuries were self-inflicted (48.4%), with hands being the most frequently affected body part (52.9%). Burn injuries were common (43.9%) but were less likely during rainy weather (OR 0.4, 95% CI 0.2–0.7, p = 0.004). Surgical intervention was required in 23.9% of cases, with significant risk factors being associated bone injuries (OR 107.1, 95% CI 22.7 to 505.6), male sex (OR 5.7, 95% CI 1.3–25.0) and multiple body region injuries (OR 4.9, 95% CI 2.1–11.7). Permanent loss of function was observed in 46.5% of all patients.

Conclusion

Firework-related injuries around New Year’s Eve are associated with significant morbidity, particularly affecting the hands and often requiring surgical intervention. Bone injuries, male sex and multiple body region injuries were associated with higher need for surgical treatment. Despite most fireworks being purchased legally, there is widespread disregard to age restrictions and safety protocols. These findings highlight the necessity of public health initiatives to reduce the incidence and severity of such injuries, rather than stricter regulations.
Effectiveness of antibiotic prophylaxis in polytrauma patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Dahms Karolina , Ansems Kelly , Dormann Julia , Steinfeld Eva , Janka Heidrun , Metzendorf Maria-Inti , Breuer Thomas , Benstoem Carina
Published: February 2025

Purpose

The use of antibiotic prophylaxis in trauma patients, particularly to prevent ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP), is debated due to rising antibiotic resistance. Therefore, this systematic review evaluated the safety and effectiveness of antibiotic prophylaxis compared to placebo or standard care on clinical outcomes in adult polytrauma patients.

Methods

We searched PubMed and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials to identify completed and ongoing studies from database inception to April 20, 2023. Eligible studies included systematic reviews and randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing antibiotic prophylaxis to placebo or standard care in adult polytrauma patients admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU).

Results

Of 1237 identified records, three RCTs involving 256 patients (nantibiotics = 176, ncontrol = 165, mean age 37.4 years, 81.6% male) were included. Antibiotic prophylaxis showed little or no effect on all-cause mortality compared to placebo or standard care (RR 1.01, 95% CI 0.55–1.85; RD 2 more per 1000, 95% CI -79 to 150; 2 studies, 209 participants; I
2 = 0%; very low certainty of evidence).

Conclusion

The results indicate that antibiotic prophylaxis has no significant effect on mortality and clinical status compared with placebo or standard care in adult polytrauma patients but may reduce the risk of VAP. However, the evidence is outdated and of very low certainty, with insufficient data to draw definitive conclusions regarding efficacy. Therefore, high-quality, up-to-date research is urgently needed to support clinical decision-making, and current interpretations should be treated with caution.
Understanding kinesiophobia in pediatric bone tumors: investigating its presence and predictive factors
Authors: Yılmaz Güleser Güney , Tanrıverdi Müberra , Önal Gözde , Yiğit Ayşenur Baysal , Şahin Sedef , Çakır Fatma Betül
Published: February 2025

Primary malignant bone tumors are significant health concerns in children. These tumors, often accompanied by pain, fatigue, and reduced physical function, can lead to the development of kinesiophobia, a fear of movement that can further complicate rehabilitation. Although factors associated with kinesiophobia have been examined in various adult cancer populations, there is limited research on kinesiophobia and its predictors in children with bone tumors. This study aims to investigate the factors contributing to kinesiophobia in pediatric bone tumor patients. This prospective cross-sectional study was conducted in children with primary malignant bone tumors aged 8–17 years who actively on treatment. The Tampa Scale for Kinesiophobia (TSK) was used to assess fear of movement. Other assessments included the numerical rating scale (NRS) for pain, the PedsQL™ Multidimensional Fatigue Scale for fatigue, the Children Depression Rating Scale-Revised (CDRS-R) for depression, manual muscle testing, and the TUG Test for functionality. Logistic regression was performed to identify predictors of kinesiophobia, while chi-square tests examined the relationship between muscle strength and kinesiophobia levels. One hundred children with bone tumors an average age of 11.83 years participated in the study. The logistic regression model indicated that surgery status, pain levels, and fatigue were significant predictors of kinesiophobia, with an R
2 value of 0.870, explaining 87% of the variance in kinesiophobia levels. Children who had surgery and were in more pain and had higher levels of depression were more likely to exhibit kinesiophobia. Conclusion: This study highlights the multifactorial nature of kinesiophobia in children with malignant bone tumors, emphasizing the roles of surgical status, pain, and psychological factors. Integrating biopsychosocial assessments and approaches into routine care may be important to reduce kinesiophobia, improve rehabilitation outcomes, and increase overall well-being.

What is Known:

• 
Kinesiophobia has been studied in adult cancer populations and has been associated with decreased physical 
activity and poorer rehabilitation outcomes.

What is New:

• 
This study demonstrates that surgery status, pain levels, and fatigue are significant predictors of kinesiophobia in children with malignant bone tumors and highlights that, in addition to various cancer-related symptoms, kinesiophobia can also be present in this population.
Suchtproblematik in der spezialisierten ambulanten Palliativversorgung in Deutschland
Authors: Eersink Jannis , Maul Julian , Heuser Nils , Morin Astrid , Gschnell Martin , Volberg Christian
Published: February 2025

Hintergrund

In der Palliativmedizin steht die Symptomkontrolle der Patienten im Vordergrund. Um dies zu erreichen, werden oft Medikamente eingesetzt, die ein Suchtpotenzial besitzen. Da Patienten in einer palliativen Erkrankungssituation immer länger überleben, kann es hierdurch zu einer Abhängigkeitsproblematik kommen.

Ziele der Arbeit

Diese Studie untersucht, ob in der spezialisierten ambulanten Palliativversorgung (SAPV) Substanzmissbrauch bei Patienten als ein Problem wahrgenommen wird.

Material und Methode

Eine Querschnittserhebung wurde unter allen deutschen SAPV-Diensten (n = 366) mithilfe eines Fragebogens durchgeführt. Die Daten sind deskriptiv ausgewertet worden.

Ergebnisse

129 SAPV-Dienste (35,2 %) nahmen an der Umfrage teil. 49,6 % geben an, dass schätzungsweise 1–5 % ihrer Patienten an einer Medikamentenabhängigkeit leiden, und 65,9 % schätzen, dass 1–5 % ihrer Patienten Drogen konsumieren. 69,8 % der SAPV-Dienste screenen ihre Patienten nicht auf das Vorliegen einer Suchterkrankung, während dies von 3,1 % regelmäßig gemacht wird. Bei Vorliegen einer Suchtproblematik führen 65,9 % der SAPV-Dienste keine Maßnahmen durch.

Diskussion

Laut den vorliegenden Daten wird Abhängigkeit nicht als Problem in der Palliativmedizin gesehen. Hier ist jedoch einzuschränken, dass fast kein SAPV-Dienst Patienten auf das Vorliegen einer Abhängigkeit screent, obwohl über die Hälfte schätzen, dass zumindest ein Teil der Patienten ein Suchtproblem aufweist. Hier ist in der Zukunft weitere Forschung notwendig, denn durch neue Therapien können Patienten in palliativen Situationen länger leben. Es wäre für die Weiterentwicklung der Palliativmedizin und die Lebensqualität der Betroffenen wichtig zu evaluieren, wie Patienten vor iatrogen induziertem Substanzmissbrauch geschützt werden können.
The tiny-leaved orchid Disperis neilgherrensis primarily obtains carbon from decaying litter via saprotrophic Ceratobasidium
Authors: Suetsugu Kenji , Yagi Ryuta , Okada Hidehito , Matsubayashi Jun
Published: February 2025

While most green orchids establish associations with non-ectomycorrhizal rhizoctonias belonging to Ceratobasidiaceae, Tulasnellaceae, and Serendipitaceae, fully mycoheterotrophic orchids—excluding albino mutants—primarily depend on either ectomycorrhizal fungi or saprotrophic non-rhizoctonia fungi. This suggests that non-ectomycorrhizal rhizoctonias may be unable to meet the carbon demands of adult orchids that exhibit a high degree of mycoheterotrophy. To understand the physiological ecology of Disperis neilgherrensis, an orchid species with reduced leaves growing in decaying litter from non-ectomycorrhizal trees, we employed molecular and stable isotope analyses to identify its mycorrhizal partners and ultimate nutritional sources at two populations on Ishigaki Island, Japan. Molecular barcoding techniques revealed that D. neilgherrensis forms exclusive associations with non-ectomycorrhizal Ceratobasidiaceae fungi. The Disperis specimens exhibited δ13C and δ15N isotopic values similar to those found in fully mycoheterotrophic orchids that exploit litter-decaying fungi. Furthermore, the pelotons of D. neilgherrensis showed significantly elevated δ13C values similar to saprotrophic non-rhizoctonia fungi. Our findings indicate that D. neilgherrensis primarily obtains its carbon from decaying litter through a specialized relationship with non-ECM Ceratobasidiaceae. Given that saprotrophic Ceratobasidiaceae facilitate nearly fully mycoheterotrophic growth in D. neilgherrensis, at least under warm and humid conditions, it is plausible that other (nearly) fully mycoheterotrophic tropical orchids also meet their carbon requirements through associations with saprotrophic rhizoctonias.
Comparison of the 2-year clinical performances of class II restorations using different restorative materials
Authors: Hançer Sarıca Sevim , Arslan Soley , Balkaya Hacer
Published: February 2025

Objective

This prospective clinical study aimed to evaluate the two-year clinical performance of conventional composite, bulk-fill composite, and high-filler flowable composite in Class II cavities.

Materials and methods

A total of 259 Class II restorations were performed in 110 patients, applying Clearfil Majesty Posterior (Clearfil) as the conventional composite, Filtek One Bulk Fill Restorative (Filtek) as the bulk-fill composite, and G-aenial Universal Injectable (G-aenial) as the high-fill flowable composite. G-Premio Bond, a universal adhesive system, was applied for all composite resin restorations. Restorations were evaluated using FDI criteria after 2 years. Data were analyzed using the Kruskal-Wallis and Friedman tests.

Results

At the end of two years, the group treated with Clearfil has showed a significantly higher surface gloss score compared to the G-aenial and Filtek groups. Additionally, it was seen that the marginal adaptation scores of the Clearfil group were similar to the Filtek group and significantly higher than the G-aenial group. In intra-group evaluations, the contact point scores of the Clearfil group showed a statistically significant increase compared to baseline and one-year follow-up assessments. The marginal adaptation scores of the Clearfil and Filtek groups also exhibited a statistically significant increase compared to baseline and one-year follow-up assessments.

Conclusions

High-filler flowable composite and bulk-fill composite exhibited better clinical properties regarding surface gloss compared to conventional composite. It was observed that the marginal adaptation property of the conventional composite were similar to the bulk-fill composite and lower than the high- filler flowable composite.

Clinical relevance

: The composite resins tested showed similar results in most of the scores evaluated.
Bridging East and West: How Business Schools Can Develop Responsible Leader Competencies
Authors: Trevisan Tatiana Donato , Haski-Leventhal Debbie , Bankins Sarah
Published: February 2025

Business schools increasingly aim to develop responsible leaders and leadership, yet the literature on how to do this effectively remains limited. Furthermore, existing research is dominated by Western theories and cases, marginalizing non-Western insights for leadership development scholarship and practice. By engaging in construct infusion and integrating insights from Western constructive development theory and Eastern Vedanta philosophy, we diversify this literature to analyze how one business school in India (SPJIMR) develops responsible leadership and associated competencies through its unique pre-experience MBA curriculum. Utilizing an in-depth case study, we show that SPJIMR provided the “holding environment” and meaningful, disequilibrating experiences for students to change their schemas (mental models) and develop intrapersonal, interpersonal, and (the novel) societal competencies, all required for responsible leadership. We also posit the concept of an “internal environment”—the space for self-reflection and new ideas and perspectives necessary for schema changes and personal growth. Our development of the Responsible Leader and Leadership Development Model offers a roadmap to support business schools in developing students’ responsible leadership and to guide future research.
Is Boredom the Opposite of Interest? A Longitudinal Reciprocal Effect Study
Authors: Boehme Katharina Luisa , Goetz Thomas , Feuchter Markus , Preckel Franzis
Published: February 2025

After decades of being conceptualised solely as a lack of interest, boredom has recently gained attention as an important construct in its own right. However, there is still a lack of studies focusing on the relations and developmental interplay of these two closely related constructs. This study examines the overall long-term developmental structure and interplay of students’ boredom and interest in the school domains of mathematics and German from fifth to eighth grade. We investigated German secondary school students (N = 1471) over four waves of measurement, using self-report questionnaires. Confirmatory factor analyses in preparation to the longitudinal approach revealed a significantly better fit for two- vs. one-factor models, indicating an empirical separability of boredom and interest. This was further supported by different stabilities in our latent cross-lagged models with low autoregressive paths for boredom and high paths for interest. The latent cross-lagged models also revealed that higher levels of earlier interest were related to lower levels of later boredom. Surprisingly, individuals with higher boredom scores relative to others on average increased in their interest from the second time point onwards. Findings were robust for German and mathematics. Overall, the results show that while boredom and interest have a large phenomenological overlap, they are empirically separable constructs with different levels of stability and influence each other in a distinctive manner throughout their developmental interplay. Implications for research and practice are outlined.
The Cryogenic System of the MISTRAL Instrument: Design and In-lab Performance
Authors: Coppolecchia A. , Carbone A. , D’ Alessandro G. , Barbavara E. , Battistelli E. S. , de Bernardis P. , Cacciotti F. , Capalbo V. , Carretti E. , Ciccalotti D. , Columbro F. , Cruciani A. , De Petris M. , Govoni F. , Isopi G. , Lamagna L. , Levati E. , Marongiu P. , Mascia A. , Masi S. , Molinari E. , Murgia M. , Navarrini A. , Novelli A. , Occhiuzzi A. , Orlati A. , Paiella A. , Pappalardo E. , Pettinari G. , Piacentini F. , Pisanu T. , Poppi S. , Porceddu I. , Ritacco A. , Schirru M. R. , Vargiu G.
Published: February 2025

We describe the design and performance of the cryostat and the multi-stage sub-K single-shot sorption cooler for the MIllimeter Sardinia Radio Telescope Receiver based on Array of Lumped elements kids (MISTRAL) experiment. MISTRAL is a W-band (77 - 103 GHz) Ti/Al bi-layer Lumped Elements Kinetic Inductance Detectors (LEKIDs) camera working at the Gregorian focus of the 64 m aperture Sardinia Radio Telescope (SRT), located in Sardinia (Italy). The cryogenic system, based on a 1.5 W at 4.2 K Pulse Tube (PT) cryocooler, provides the 4 K base temperature for the sub-K refrigerator, and cools down the cold optics and the filters chain of the instrument. The sub-K sorption cooler consists of two intermediate stages,

$$^{4}$$

4

He and

$$^{3}$$

3

He sorption refrigerators that allow to reduce the heat load on the ultra-cold head, and a twin stage of

$$^{3}$$

3

He sorption refrigerator providing the 0.2 K operation temperature for the 415-pixel array of LEKIDs. MISTRAL experiment was installed at SRT in May 2023, the technical commissioning started in June 2023. We will show the performance of the system in the laboratory.
Exploration of UHPLC-ESI-QTOF-MS Profiles and the Neuroprotective, Antidiabetic, Antioxidant and Cytotoxic Effects of Extracts from Achillea maritima (L.) Ehrend. & Y.P.Guo (Asteraceae) Collected in Türkiye
Authors: Ahmed Shakeel , Zengin Gokhan , Fernández-Ochoa Álvaro , de la Luz Cádiz-Gurrea Maria , Leyva-Jiménez Francisco Javier , Elkiran Omer , Cakilcioglu Ugur , Akgul Bengusu H. , Pereira Catarina G. , Custódio Luísa
Published: February 2025

The current study investigated the chemical composition, antioxidant activity, enzyme inhibition, and cytotoxic activities of extracts from Achillea maritima, a wild medicinal plant used for various therapeutic purposes. The antioxidant activities were assayed through different assays like DPPH, ABTS, CUPRAC, FRAP, and phosphomolybdenum, whereas in enzyme inhibition studies, cholinesterase, tyrosinase, α-amylase, and α-glucosidase were assayed. Cytotoxicity studies are conducted on S17, RAW, and HepG2 to assess its selectivity and effectiveness. Chemical profiling by UHPLC-ESI-QTOF-MS revealed multiple bioactive compounds in the extracts. Polar solvents (ethanol, ethanol/water, and water) resulted in high concentrations of phenolic acids as well as chlorogenic and caffeoylquinic acids, as well as flavonoids like vicenin and apigenin. On the other, the nonpolar (hexane extract) was rich in octadecatrienoic acid hydroperoxy and hydroxyoctadecatrienic acid. Among these, the water extract contained the highest phenolic content of 32.26 mg GAE/g, while the ethyl acetate extract was the richest in flavonoids, with 7.83 mg RE/g. In the antioxidant studies, the water and ethanol/water extracts consistently display the most potent activities, thus indicating their significant free radical scavenging and metal chelation abilities. The studies on enzyme inhibitions showed remarkable BChE inhibitory activities of the ethanol extract in 12.50 mg GALAE/g, thus showing potential in managing disease conditions related to cholinesterase. Tyrosinase inhibition was significant by the ethanol extract, presenting 55.59 mg KAE/g. The ethyl acetate extract exhibited the most potent inhibitory activity against α-amylase with 0.66 mmol ACAE/g, while ethanol extract showed significant inhibition of α-glucosidase with 4.35 ACAE/g. Cytotoxicity results showed that the water extract was most effective against the HepG2 cancer cell line by reducing cell viability to 38.4% at high doses while preserving low toxicity against normal cells, as observed by high viability percentages in S17 and RAW cell lines. These results highlight the usefulness of A. maritima extracts in nutraceutical, pharmaceutical, and cosmeceutical applications.
Multilevel latent class models for cross-classified categorical data: model definition and estimation through stochastic EM
Authors: Columbu S. , Piras N. , Vermunt J. K.
Published: February 2025

We present an extension of the multilevel latent class model for dealing with multilevel cross-classified categorical data. Cross-classified data structures arise when observations are simultaneously nested within two or more groups, for example, children nested within both schools and neighborhoods. More specifically, we propose extending the standard hierarchical latent class model, which contains mixture components at two levels, say for children and schools, by including a separate set of mixture components for each of the higher-level crossed classifications, say for schools and neighborhoods. Because of the complex dependency structure arising from the cross-classified nature of the data, it is no longer possible to obtain maximum likelihood estimates of the model parameters, for example, using the EM algorithm. As a solution to the estimation problem, we propose an approximate estimation approach using a stochastic version of the EM algorithm. The performance of this approach, which resembles Gibbs sampling, was investigated through a set of simulation studies. Moreover, the application of the new model is illustrated using an Italian dataset on the quality of university experience at degree programme level, with degree programmes nested in both universities and fields of study.
Burgess and the bucket: the emergence of spacetime in classical theories of gravitation
Authors: Cocco Lorenzo , Babic Joshua
Published: February 2025

The paper studies in detail a precise formal construction of spacetime from matter suggested by the logician John Burgess. We presuppose a continuous and perdurantistic matter ontology. The result is a systematic method to translate claims about the geometry of a flat relativistic, or classical, spacetime into claims about geometrical relations between matter points. The approach is extended to electric and magnetic fields by treating them as multifields defined on matter, rather than as fields in the vacuum. A few tentative suggestions are made to adapt the method to general relativity and to quantum theories.
Precision in vitro propagation by integrating response surface methodology and machine learning for Glossostigma elatinoides (Benth) Hook. F
Authors: Özcan Esra , Ali Seyid Amjad , Aasim Muhammad , Atar Hasan Hüseyin
Published: February 2025

Optimization of in vitro organogenesis of Glossostigma elatinoides (Benth) Hook. f. was targeted in this study. The experiment was designed with the help of design of experiment (DOE) of response surface methodology (RSM) model. Murashige and Skoog (MS) basal salt, sucrose, and agar were used as input factors and a total of 15 runs were used for optimization. Results were analyzed by ANOVA and response surface regression analysis (RSRA) followed by prediction and validation via different machine learning (ML) models. Results of ANOVA revealed the impact of different combinations on output parameters. Results of RSRA illustrated the relationship between input and output parameters. Pareto chart analysis showed the significant impact of MS on clump diameter, fresh wt., and dry wt. Normal plot analysis illustrated the positive impact of MS on all output parameters and increased proportionally with MS concentration. Results of heatmap and network analysis also demonstrated the significance of MS on all output parameters. Comparison of ML models depicted the better performance of multilayer perceptron (MLP) model for rooting (R
2 = 0.957), fresh wt (R
2 = 0.806), and dry wt (R
2 = 0.812). Conversely, the support vector regression (SVR) model demonstrated superior prediction for clump diameter (R
2 = 0.809). Among the tested models, the SVR model showed the weakest performance, aside from clump diameter, while LightGBM achieved scores close to those of the RF and MLP models across all metrics. The findings clearly indicate that the adopted protocol is well-suited for the effective commercial propagation of the aquatic G. elatinoides plant.
Surgical Management of Male Urinary Incontinence Following Radiation Therapy for Prostate Cancer: A Review
Authors: Yong Jin , Ku Ming-Hsuan , Pham Vu H. , Tse Vincent W.
Published: February 2025

Purpose of Review

This review evaluates the surgical management of male urinary incontinence (UI) following radiation therapy (RT) for prostate cancer, focusing on artificial urinary sphincters (AUS) and male urethral slings. It aims to assess recent evidence on the impact of RT on surgical treatment options for post-prostatectomy incontinence.

Recent Findings

Recent findings indicate that male urethral slings have lower success rates and higher complication rates in patients who have undergone prior RT. Conversely, although the AUS is the gold standard for treating post-prostatectomy UI, it also exhibits poorer outcomes and higher complication rates in post-RT patients compared to those without RT. Some recent studies suggest that administering RT after AUS implantation is associated with better continence outcomes, without increasing the risk of complications. Various techniques have also recently been developed to address urethral atrophy and persistent UI following AUS implantation, including the use of tunica albuginea flaps and downsizing to a 3.5 cm AUS cuff. It must be noted that despite increased complications, quality of life outcomes remains very favourable for patients who are post-RT and undergoing AUS implantation. The 7th International Consultation on Incontinence strongly recommends AUS as the surgical option for the post-prostatectomy incontinent male who has undergone RT.

In summary, AUS implantation significantly enhances continence and quality of life for RT patients, despite the increased risk of complications. Optimising outcomes in managing male UI post-RT requires tailored surgical approaches, thorough preoperative assessments, and realistic patient counselling.
Adjuvant Chemotherapy for High-Risk Stage II Colon Cancer: A Population-Based Study
Authors: Butare Annmarie , Sutton Tia , Kantzler Elizabeth , Kennedy Katie N. , Tumin Dmitry , Honaker Michael D.
Published: February 2025

Background

Adjuvant chemotherapy is recommended as an option for patients who have high-risk features. It remains unclear whether all patients with high-risk stage II colon cancer benefit from adjuvant therapy. The primary aim of this study is to evaluate the association between adjuvant chemotherapy and overall survival in patients with high-risk stage II colon cancer.

Methods

Utilizing the Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results (SEER) database from 2010 to 2019, adult patients with high-risk stage II colon cancer defined as T4 tumor classification, perineural invasion, less than 12 lymph nodes harvested, and poorly differentiated histology. 1:1 ratio propensity matching was used to adjust for confounding variables. Survival differences based on receipt of adjuvant systemic therapy were summarized using a log rank test. Cox proportion hazard regression was used to evaluate overall survival.

Results

Of the 11,619 patients who met inclusion criteria, 2775 (24%) received adjuvant chemotherapy. Patients were more likely to receive adjuvant therapy if they were younger, married or partnered, or had left-sided lesions. Kaplan–Meier estimates showed an improvement in overall survival (log-rank test < 0.001). On pair-stratified Cox proportional hazards regression, adjuvant chemotherapy receipt was associated with 30% lower mortality hazard (hazard ratio [HR] 0.70; 95% CI 0.62, 0.80; p < 0.001). However, on landmark analysis, after excluding patients surviving < 3 months, adjuvant chemotherapy was no longer associated with mortality hazard (HR 0.90; 95% CI 0.79, 1.04; p = 0.144).

Conclusion

The findings from this large SEER database study provide support for not undergoing adjuvant chemotherapy to patients with high-risk stage II colon cancer.
Teacher Communication Strategies for Addressing Child Sexual Abuse: a Latent Profile Analysis
Authors: Efrati Yaniv
Published: February 2025

Teachers play a crucial role as educators for children, and there have been ongoing calls for their active engagement in initiatives focused on the prevention and/or disclosure of child sexual abuse (CSA). The available studies, however, typically do not address the most beneficial CSA-related teacher communication strategies. The aim of this study was to examine how pupils perceive their teachers’ CSA-related communication strategies and to identify the most beneficial strategy profile using latent profile analysis (LPA). Profiles of teachers’ communication strategies were compared in terms of quality of pupil-teacher communication in the area of CSA, general support, CSA-related support, age, socioeconomic status (SES), teachers’ perceptions of pupils’ CSA severity and susceptibility, and pupils’ sense of teachers’ acceptance and rejection. In the study, 756 pupils (341 boys and 415 girls), aged 11–18 (M = 15.32, SD = 1.82), and 66 teachers (21 male and 45 female), aged 25–64 (M = 41.88, SD = 8.93) were surveyed. Results: Five distinct profiles were identified: moderate active mediation (n = 256); high active mediation (n = 222); high mediation (n = 109); minor active positive focused (n = 86), and no mediation (n = 41). The “high-active” profile was the most effective for mediation, characterized by younger teachers who provided extensive general and CSA-specific support, enhancing student support experiences. The findings offer deeper insights into the efficacy of teachers’ CSA-related communication strategies, presenting an opportunity for the development of more effective sex education programs aimed at CSA prevention in the future.
Examining the Effect of an 8-Week Mindfulness Training Program on Caregiver Burden and Occupational Balance, and on Functional Capacity in People with Alzheimer’s Disease: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Prieto-Botella Daniel , Peral-Gómez Paula , Mendialdua-Canales Daniel , Fernández-Pires Paula , Benavides-Gil Gemma , Company-Devesa Verónica , Martínez-Zaragoza Fermín , Pastor-Zaplana José-Ángel , Lillo-Navarro Carmen , Espinosa-Sempere Cristina , Goldin Philippe , Sánchez-Pérez Alicia
Published: February 2025

Objectives

The purpose of the present study was to examine the effect of an 8-week Mindfulness-Based Health Care (MBHC) Program on informal caregiver (CG) burden and occupational balance, as well as on the functional capacity of people with Alzheimer’s disease cared for.

Method

In this randomized controlled trial, 66 CGs were allocated to an MBHC (n = 33) and a treatment as usual (n = 33) group. Data collection included the Zarit Burden Interview, the Occupational Balance Questionnaire, and the Disability Assessment for Dementia. CGs were evaluated at baseline, post-intervention, and 3-month follow-up. A total of 50 (75.6%) and 30 (45.5%) CGs completed the post-intervention and the 3-month follow-up assessments, respectively. Linear regression and generalized linear mixed models were performed to explore the intervention effects.

Results

In comparison to treatment as usual, the MBHC intervention was associated with a significant decrease in CG burden post-intervention (β = − 7.04; 95% CI: − 13.19, − 0.88; p = 0.026). Furthermore, MBHC intervention was associated with a significant increase in CGs’ occupational balance right after intervention (β = 6.54; 95% CI: 1.85, 11.22; p = 0.007). However, these positive effects were not statistically significant at the 3-month follow-up. Finally, the functional capacity of the people with Alzheimer’s disease showed non-relevant changes or differences between groups.

Conclusions

This randomized controlled trial showed that an MBHC could have a positive impact in reducing CG burden and improving their occupational balance. These results highlight the viability of implementing an MBHC as a cost-effective, community-based care intervention aimed at improving mental well-being in CGs of individuals with Alzheimer’s disease.

Preregistration

This study was registered on Clinicaltrials.gov (http://clinicaltrials.gov) with ID, NCT03858283.