bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Quantitative Analysis of Internal and External Loads in Aviation Firefighting Using a Simulated Scenario
Authors: Glen Bronia , Wills Jodie , Campbell Rhiannon , Cormack Stuart , Tofari Paul , Parsey Brendan , Edmonds Rohan , Doyle Tim
Published: January 2025

Background/Objectives: Aviation firefighting is a strenuous occupation that requires individuals to engage in intense physical activity amidst elevated stress levels and extreme environmental conditions. Despite this, there has been limited investigation regarding the internal and external loads associated with aviation firefighting tasks, which include hose dragging, stair climbing, casualty evacuation, and fire extinguishing in airports and aircrafts. The aim of this study was to examine the internal and external loads placed on aviation firefighters. By identifying these demands, this study seeks to inform the development of targeted training strategies, improve job safety, and lower the risk of musculoskeletal injuries. Methods: Sixteen Australian aviation firefighters (35.13 ± 8.2 years) were recruited and assigned specific roles to complete an aircraft firefighting scenario. Measures of heart rate (HR), oxygen consumption (V˙O2), and rating of perceived exertion (RPE) were used to quantify internal load, while measures of completion time and distance travelled were used to quantify external load. Results: The median scenario completion time was 21 min (IQR = 5), with each role travelling a median distance of 245–541 m. During the scenario, median average HR values ranged between 61.1 and 72.0% HRmax and median maximal HR values ranged between 77.8 and 84.4% HRmax. As the only group to record V˙O2, driver firefighters operated at a median average V˙O2 of 49% of their V˙O2max and achieved a median maximal V˙O2 of 78% of their V˙O2max. Conclusions: This study effectively identified the task-specific internal and external loads associated with aviation firefighting, offering valuable insights for developing specific training protocols for firefighters to ensure appropriate physical capacity to perform their job roles safely.
Building Wealth, Building Health: Asset Holding and Health Care Utilization Among U.S. Immigrants
Authors: Lee Haenim
Published: January 2025

Purpose: Immigrants’ low socioeconomic status is consistently linked to reduced healthcare utilization. This study extends the Andersen Behavioral Model by incorporating asset ownership as an enabling factor and examining its role across immigrant origin groups. It addresses two questions: (1) What is the relationship between asset ownership and healthcare utilization among immigrants? (2) Are there ethnic differences in this relationship? Methods: Data from 4730 adults in the National Immigrant Survey (NIS) were analyzed. Missing income values were handled using multiple imputations. Healthcare utilization was measured as physician and dentist visits (dichotomous variables). Independent variables included demographic, immigration, health, and asset factors. Logistic regression was used to examine the impact of financial and real assets on healthcare utilization. Results: Asset ownership significantly enhances healthcare utilization among immigrants. Individuals with financial assets were 124% more likely to visit a physician and 66% more likely to visit a dentist, while real assets increased these probabilities by 35% and 22%, respectively. Sub-ethnic analyses showed that both asset types positively influenced physician visits for Asians and Europeans, but not Africans. For dentist visits, only Europeans showed significant associations with asset ownership, while Middle Easterners and Africans did not. Implications: These findings support the inclusion of asset ownership in the Andersen model, highlighting its relevance for immigrant populations. Asset-building programs could enhance healthcare utilization and improve immigrant health outcomes. Tailored policies are recommended to address the unique needs of diverse ethnic groups.
Surveillance Capitalism: Origins, History, Consequences
Authors: Lipartito Kenneth
Published: January 2025

This article investigates the early history and recent development of what is now termed surveillance capitalism. It argues that an underappreciated aspect of the surveillance of people and intensive data collection is a regularization of behavior that attempts to erase uncertainty. This process has been ongoing for more than a century, but its expansion through increasingly sophisticated digital technology and the widespread adoption of data gathering as a business strategy has the potential to stifle and inhibit the innovative entrepreneurship that is crucial to the capitalist system. How this will play out remains unclear, but history argues that we should look for ways to mitigate the potentially negative consequences of complex technological systems such as these.
Attribution of the Climate and Land Use Change Impact on the Hydrological Processes of Athabasca River Basin, Canada
Authors: Aryal Sharad , Babel Mukand S. , Gupta Anil , Farjad Babak , Khadka Dibesh , Hassan Quazi K.
Published: January 2025

Climate change (CC) and land use/land cover change (LULCC) are significant drivers of hydrological change, and an effective watershed management requires a detailed understanding of their individual and the combined impact. This study focused on the Athabasca River Basin (ARB), Canada, and investigated how the basin responded to their changes using the MIKE SHE-MIKE Hydro River. Our findings revealed novel insights into ARB hydrological changes, including increment in non-vegetated lands (0.26%), savannas (1.28%), forests (0.53%), and urban areas (0.02%) while grasslands (2.07%) and shrublands (0.03%) decreased. Moreover, the basin experienced rising annual minimum (1.01 °C) and maximum (0.85 °C) temperatures but declining precipitation (6.2%). The findings suggested a significant impact of CC compared to LULCC as CC caused annual reduction in streamflow (7.9%), evapotranspiration (4.8%), and recharge (6.9%). Meanwhile, LULCC reduced streamflow (0.2%) and recharge (0.4%) but increased evapotranspiration (0.1%). The study revealed spatiotemporal variability across the ARB, with temperature impacts stronger in winter and precipitation influencing other seasons.
Zika Virus Infection in Asymptomatic Pregnant Women
Authors: Guardado Kathia , López-Balderas Nayali , Morales-Romero Jaime , Sampieri Clara Luz , Zenteno-Cuevas Roberto , Álvarez-Bañuelos María Teresa , Ramos-Ligonio Ángel , Ortiz-León María Cristina , Varela-Cardoso Miguel , Montero Hilda
Published: January 2025

Background/Objectives: Zika disease is caused by the Zika virus (ZIKV) and represents a major public health problem because of the complications in newborn babies from mothers who were infected during pregnancy. It is estimated that 80% of infected pregnant women are asymptomatic, which complicates the identification of infected individuals. In this study, we aimed to detect ZIKV in asymptomatic pregnant women and the effects in the newborns were analyzed. Methods: The presence of ZIKV was evaluated through endpoint reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) in 114 blood samples from pregnant women treated at two hospitals in the state of Veracruz, Mexico. There was a follow-up of the participants until the birth of their newborns. Results: ZIKV RNA was detected in 4.4% (n = 5) of cases. In two positive cases, two consecutive samples were obtained, and one case of persistence of ZIKV in serum after 90 days after delivery was identified. A total of 80% of the positive cases were identified after the third trimester of pregnancy and 20% after the second trimester. Although ZIKV was shown to be a risk factor for low weight and low size at birth and prematurity, after adjustment for other variables, it did not show a significant association. In contrast, preeclampsia/eclampsia was identified as a significant risk factor for low birth weight. Conclusions: The prevalence of ZIKV found in this study suggests a latent circulation of this virus and highlights the importance of epidemiological surveillance in endemic zones. The prolonged viremia that was found suggests the need for more research because of the high impact which can mean the possible dissemination of the virus to the vector.
The SHIELD Framework: Advancing Strength-Based Resilience Strategies to Combat Bullying and Cyberbullying in Youth
Authors: Dailey Stephanie F. , Roche Rosellen R.
Published: January 2025

Bullying and cyberbullying are critical global issues that significantly affect the mental health and behavioral well-being of youth. This article explores the complex challenges posed by these forms of aggression and introduces a strength-based model for health and mental health professionals to address these issues with impacted youth holistically. Grounded within findings from a scoping review of the literature, the SHIELD framework emphasizes Strengths, Healing, Interventions, Empowerment, Learning, and Development, offering a comprehensive approach for identifying and supporting youth impacted by bullying and cyberbullying. SHIELD emphasizes collaboration among health professionals, schools, families, and communities. By integrating empirical evidence and best practices from school-based approaches to bullying prevention, such as Positive Behavioral Interventions and Support (PBIS) and Social and Emotional Learning (SEL), this framework provides a roadmap for creating safer, more inclusive environments for youth while prioritizing their mental health and overall well-being in the face of bullying and cyberbullying. A case study illustrates the framework’s practical application and future directions are proposed to guide further empirical investigation and stimulate innovative approaches to addressing the complexities of bullying and cyberbullying.
Combination of HSP90 Inhibitors and HSP70 Inducers Prevent Hydrochloric Acid-Induced Pulmonary Fibrosis in Rabbits
Authors: Colunga Biancatelli Ruben M. L. , Solopov Pavel A. , Day Tierney , Austin Dan E. , Murray Len E. , Catravas John D.
Published: January 2025

Combined therapies with Heat Shock Protein 90 (HSP90) inhibitors and Heat Shock Protein 70 (HSP70) inducers are gaining significant interest in cancer and cardiovascular research. Here, we tested the hypothesis that HSP90 inhibitors and HSP70 inducers, together, can block the development of pulmonary fibrosis. We exposed New Zealand White Rabbits to hydrochloric acid (HCl, 0.1 N, 1.5 mL/kg), one of the top five chemicals most commonly involved in accidental exposures and inhalation injuries worldwide, and treated animals with either the orally available HSP90 inhibitor TAS-116 (1.7 mg/kg 5x/week) or TAS-116 combined with the HSP70 inducer, geranylgeranyl acetone (GGA, 50 mg/kg, 3x/week). At 60 days post-HCl instillation, TAS and GGA treatment markedly reduced the degree of pulmonary fibrosis, lung dysfunction, and activation of profibrotic pathways. The use of HSP70 inducers may be a helpful tool to improve the profile of HSP90 inhibitors and reduce their minimal effective dose and side effects. Further investigation is required to explore the exact synergistic mechanism behind the antifibrotic profile of HSP90 inhibitors and HSP70 inducers.
Polymeric Polylactic Acid–Glycolic Acid-Based Nanoparticles Deliver Nintedanib Across the Blood–Brain Barrier to Inhibit Glioblastoma Growth
Authors: Dang Ying , Zhao Zhiwen , Wang Bo , Du Aichao , Li Shuangyi , Yuan Guoqiang , Pan Yawen
Published: January 2025

The aim of this study was to investigate the inhibitory effect of nintedanib (BIBF) on glioblastoma (GBM) cells and its mechanism of action and to optimize a drug delivery strategy to overcome the limitations posed by the blood–brain barrier (BBB). We analyzed the inhibition of GBM cell lines following BIBF treatment and explored its effect on the autophagy pathway. The cytotoxicity of BIBF was assessed using the CCK-8 assay, and further techniques such as transmission electron microscopy, Western blotting (WB), and flow cytometry were employed to demonstrate that BIBF could block the autophagic pathway by inhibiting the fusion of autophagosomes and lysosomes, ultimately limiting the proliferation of GBM cells. Molecular docking and surface plasmon resonance (SPR) experiments indicated that BIBF specifically binds to the autophagy-associated protein VPS18, interfering with its function and inhibiting the normal progression of autophagy. However, the application of BIBF in GBM therapy is limited due to restricted drug penetration across the BBB. Therefore, this study utilized poly-lactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA) nanocarriers as a drug delivery system to significantly enhance the delivery efficiency of BIBF in vivo. In vitro cellular experiments and in vivo animal model validation demonstrated that PLGA-BIBF NPs effectively overcame the limitations of the BBB, significantly enhanced the antitumor activity of BIBF, and improved therapeutic efficacy in a GBM BALB/c-Nude model. This study demonstrated that BIBF exerted significant inhibitory effects on GBM cells by binding to VPS18 and inhibiting the autophagy pathway. Combined with the PLGA nanocarrier delivery system, the blood–brain barrier permeability and anti-tumor effect of BIBF were significantly enhanced. Targeting the BIBF-VPS18 pathway and optimizing drug delivery through nanotechnology may represent a new strategy for GBM treatment, providing innovative clinical treatment ideas and a theoretical basis for patients with GBM.
Alterations in Autophagic Function and Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress Markers in the Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells of Patients on Hemodialysis
Authors: Liu Wen-Chih , Wu Ming-Yin , Lim Paik Seong
Published: January 2025

Oxidative stress, endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, and alterations in autophagy activity have been described as prominent factors mediating many pathological processes in chronic kidney disease (CKD). The accumulation of misfolded proteins in the ER may stimulate the unfolded protein response (UPR). The interplay between autophagy and UPR in hemodialysis (HD) patients remains unclear. The aim of the present study was to explore the associations between serum oxidative stress markers, autophagy activity, and ER stress markers in the peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) of patients on HD. Autophagy and ER stress-related protein expression levels in PBMCs were measured using western blotting. The redox state of human serum albumin was measured via high-performance liquid chromatography. Levels of the microtubule associated protein light chain 3 (LC3)-II, BECLIN1, and p62/SQSTM1 proteins were significantly increased in PBMCs of HD patients compared to healthy subjects. The PBMCs in HD patients also displayed augmented glucose-regulated protein 78 kDa (GRP78), phosphorylated eukaryotic translation initiation factor 2, subunit 1 alpha (p-eIF2α), and activating transcription factor 6 (ATF6) levels (p < 0.05). Additionally, nuclear factor erythroid 2 (NF-E2)-related factor 2 (NRF2) levels were elevated in the PBMCs of HD patients, compared to those of healthy subjects. Correlation analysis showed that the redox status of albumin was significantly correlated with the p62 protein level in PBMCs. Compared to healthy controls, we found elevated autophagosome formation in HD patients. Increased expression of ER stress markers was also observed in HD patients. Furthermore, increased p62 expression was positively correlated with the protein expression of NRF2, as well as a reduced form of serum albumin (human mercaptalbumin; HMA), in HD patients.
Effect of Combining Exercise with Adipose-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells in Muscle Atrophy Model of Sarcopenia
Authors: Jeong Dong-Hwa , Kim Min-Jeong , Park Chul-Hyun
Published: January 2025

Deterioration in muscle mass, strength, and physical performance due to conditions such as sarcopenia can affect daily activities and quality of life in the elderly. Exercise and mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are potential therapies for sarcopenia. This study evaluates the combined effects of exercise and adipose-derived MSCs (ADMSCs) in aged rats with sarcopenia. Eighteen-month-old rats were randomly divided into four groups: control, exercise (Ex), ADMSCs injection (MSC), and ADMSCs injection with exercise (MSC + Ex). Gastrocnemius (GCM) muscle mass increased in the Ex, MSC, and MSC + Ex groups compared to the control group. Although the mean CSA did not differ significantly between the groups, the size distribution of myofibers shifted toward larger sizes in the Ex and MSC + Ex groups. The MSC + Ex group performed best in functional tests, including the rotarod and hot plate tests. The protein expression levels of tumor necrosis factor (TNF) and the p-AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK)/AMPK ratio in the GCM muscle were the lowest in the MSC + Ex group. This study demonstrates that combining exercise and ADMSC interventions was the most effective treatment for aged sarcopenic rats, suggesting a potential synergistic approach for sarcopenia treatment.
Monochromatic Light Interactions in the Early Hypocotyl Elongation of Sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) Seedlings
Authors: Vinterhalter Dragan , Motyka Vaclav , Vinterhalter Branka
Published: January 2025

Sunflower is a crop species well adapted for cultivation in open fields under full sunlight. Young plantlets can be grown in growth chambers under low irradiance, where different aspects of light can be easily tracked. Using time-lapse imaging, we have shown how monochromatic red, blue, and far-red light and their combinations interacted, affecting the rhythmicity and elongation of sunflower hypocotyls. Monochromatic light of any color, applied individually, canceled all manifestations of diurnal rhythmicity and anticipation of imminent light transitions present in diurnal photoperiods established by white LED light panels. Monochromatic light also significantly increased the rate of hypocotyl elongation, which became uniform (arrhythmic) and often triggered the appearance of guttation. The rate of hypocotyl elongation was highest with the blue light and lowest with red light. In double light combinations, red light suppressed the stimulative effect of blue light, but it promoted the elongation rate when used together with far-red light. A triple light combination of red, blue, and far-red light stimulated hypocotyl elongation to a high degree and increased the elongation rate more than twofold compared with red and fourfold compared with white LED light.
Relations of Society Concepts and Religions from Wikipedia Networks
Authors: Frahm Klaus M. , Shepelyansky Dima L.
Published: January 2025

We analyze the Google matrix of directed networks of Wikipedia articles related to eight recent Wikipedia language editions representing different cultures (English, Arabic, German, Spanish, French, Italian, Russian, Chinese). Using the reduced Google matrix algorithm, we determine relations and interactions of 23 society concepts and 17 religions represented by their respective articles for each of the eight editions. The effective Markov transitions are found to be more intense inside the two blocks of society concepts and religions while transitions between the blocks are significantly reduced. We establish five poles of influence for society concepts (Law, Society, Communism, Liberalism, Capitalism) as well as five poles for religions (Christianity, Islam, Buddhism, Hinduism, Chinese folk religion) and determine how they affect other entries. We compute inter-edition correlations for different key quantities providing a quantitative analysis of the differences or the proximity of views of the eight cultures with respect to the selected society concepts and religions.
Airway Analysis and Morphometric Assessment of Dental Arches in Obstructive Sleep Apnea Patients
Authors: Ciavarella Domenico , Ferrara Donatella , Spinoso Giusi , Cattaneo Paolo , Leo Chiara , Russo Lucio Lo , Burlon Giuseppe , Burlon Carlotta , Esperouz Fariba , Laurenziello Michele , Tepedino Michele , Lorusso Mauro
Published: January 2025

Background: Obstructive sleep apnea is a sleep-related breathing disorder associated with craniofacial morphology and dental arches. The aim of this study was to evaluate the correlation between obstructive sleep apnea and the morphometry of dental arches and upper airways. Methods: Forty patients were enrolled in the study, and the polysomnographic parameters evaluated were the apnea hypopnea index (AHI) and the oxygen desaturation index (ODI). Dental measurements taken from the 3D models included anterior arch widths, posterior arch widths, maxillary and mandibular arch lengths, and palatal surface area. A cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) evaluation was also performed. Results: In patients with moderate OSA, posterior maxillary width was significantly correlated with both minimal airway area (rho = 0.65, p < 0.01) and its transverse diameter (rho = 0.68, p < 0.01). Similarly, in patients with severe OSA, posterior maxillary width showed a significant correlation with total airway volume (rho = 1, p < 0.01), minimal airway area (rho = 1, p < 0.01), and its transverse diameter (rho = 1, p < 0.01). Conclusions: Craniofacial morphology and malocclusion can contribute to obstructive sleep apnea syndrome.
Structural Equation Modelling of Retinopathy of Prematurity Treatment Integrating Both Physical and Clinical Effects
Authors: García-Serrano José Luis , Protsyk Olena , Domech-Serrano Teresa , Uberos Fernández José
Published: January 2025

Background: We sought to develop a structural equation model (SEM) identifying physical and clinical risk factors associated with treatment for retinopathy of prematurity (ROP). Methods: This retrospective, observational, case–control study included 314 infants screened for ROP between April 2004 and July 2024. A bivariate binary logistic regression model, decision tree, and structural equation model (SEM) were employed to develop a more general model for ROP requiring treatment. Results: In the SEM, the factors significantly associated with ROP treatment included the retinal avascular area according to disk diameter (DD) (p < 0.001), weekly vascularisation rate (DD/w) (p < 0.001), and duration of intubation (days) (p < 0.001). In addition, the following significant associations were identified in both the bivariate analysis and the SEM: lower gestational age (p < 0.001) and birth weight (p <0.001) were associated with greater retinal avascular area; low postnatal weight gain (p < 0.027) was associated with a slow rate of retinal vascularisation; sepsis (p < 0.001), ductus arteriosus (p < 0.001), and the need for transfusion (p < 0.001) were associated with longer intubation mechanical ventilation (IMV). Conclusions: Lower gestational age, lower birth weight, sepsis, ductus arteriosus, transfusion, and lower weight gain increase the risk of requiring ROP treatment. In the SEM, this association is represented through three intermediate physical endogenous variables, namely, the greater temporal avascular area of the retina, the lower postnatal vascularisation rate, and the greater duration of IMV.
Longitudinal Evaluation of Vestibular Symptoms in Patients with Vestibular Schwannoma After Robotic-Guided Stereotactic Radiosurgery Using the Dizziness Handicap Inventory (DHI)
Authors: Rueß Daniel , Vojacek Susanne , Güngör Eda , Lüers Jan Christoffer , Hunsche Stefan , Jablonska Karolina , Kocher Martin , Ruge Maximilian I.
Published: January 2025

Background: Vestibular symptoms can severely affect patients with vestibular schwannomas (VSs). Studies assessing vestibular symptoms beyond clinical routine assessment in patients with VS treated by stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) are scarce. Therefore, we employed the standardized questionnaire Dizziness Handicap Inventory (DHI) to systematically evaluate vestibular symptoms prior to and after SRS. Methods: For this retrospective single center study, we included patients who received Cyberknife® SRS for newly diagnosed unilateral VS between 2012 and 2022, and who had a minimum of two follow-up (FU) visits. Besides clinical assessment, the presence and severeness of vestibular symptoms before and after treatment was recorded by using the DHI. Overall DHI symptom scores (1–100) were classified into four grades (0 = “none”, 1 = “mild”, 2 = “moderate” and 3 = “severe”). The results were correlated with tumor-, patient-, and treatment-related characteristics. Results: We analyzed 128 patients with a median age of 60 years (range: 20–82) and a median FU of 36 months (range: 11–106 months). The median tumor volume was 0.99 cm3 (range: 0.04–7.1 cm3). A median marginal dose of 13 Gy (range: 12–14 Gy) was administered. The crude rate of local tumor control was 99.2%. The mean DHI total score at last follow-up (LFU, 25.5 ± 24.7; range 0–92) was significantly lower than before SRS (29.4 ± 25.3; range:0–92, p = 0.026), which was reflected in a higher proportion of patients with DHI grade “none” and a lower proportion of patients with DHI grade “severe” at LFU. Chi-square tests showed a significant correlation of the DHI grades (DHI 0–1 vs. DHI 2–3) with the absence or presence of vestibular symptoms both before SRS (p < 0.001, CI 95%) and at LFU (p = 0.038). Conclusions: The DHI is a feasible and valid instrument for measuring vestibular symptoms after SRS. In addition, the DHI enables the quantification of symptoms and can therefore serve as an important tool for outcome assessment after SRS of VS. In the present cohort, DHI scores improved significantly during FU.
Influence of the Hall Technique on Patient Cooperation: A Retrospective Analysis
Authors: Santamaría Ruth M. , Gomma Amr , Khole Manasi R. , Splieth Christian H. , Alkilzy Mohammad
Published: January 2025

Child’s cooperation and behaviour in paediatric dentistry are largely determined by the nature of the treatment. Minimally invasive, faster, and more comfortable treatments can lead to greater cooperation and improved behaviour. Objectives: To assess the impact of the Hall technique (HT) on children’s behaviour over time across three consecutive treatment sessions through a retrospective analysis. Methods: The analysis included children aged 3 to 10 years treated with the HT, with both a pre- and post-Hall technique appointment within a 6-month period. The level of cooperation at each visit was assessed using the Frankl behaviour rating scale (FBRS). The FBRS scores from the three visits: T1 (first treatment session), T2 (Hall technique session), and T3 (follow-up session) were analysed to predict the endpoint (T3–T1) using the Wilcoxon signed-rank test. In addition, an ordinal logistic regression model was used to assess the relationship between variables and behavioural change. Results: Of the 90 children included in this study (mean age 5.9 ± 1.56 years; 50 boys, 55.6%), the proportion of patients exhibiting extremely positive/positive behaviour increased steadily over the sessions, from 56.7% at T1 to 76.7% at T2 to 91.1% at T3. The initial behaviour at T1 was the only significant predictor (p < 0.0001) of the improvement in behaviour (T3–T1) in the ordinal logistic regression model, which also included variables such as age, sex of the patient, and the treating dentist. Conclusions: The Hall technique had a significant positive effect on improving children’s behaviour over the course of treatment.
Enhancing Surgical Efficiency and Radiological Outcomes Through Advances in Patient-Specific Instrument Design
Authors: Koh Yong-Gon , Nam Ji-Hoon , Kim Jong-Keun , Suh Dong-Suk , Chung Jai Hyun , Park Kwan Kyu , Kang Kyoung-Tak
Published: January 2025

Background/Objectives: Patient-specific instrumentation (PSI) in total knee arthroplasty (TKA) uses preoperative three-dimensional imaging to create cutting blocks tailored to patient anatomy. However, there is debate regarding the additional benefits of PSI in terms of improved alignment or functional outcomes compared to using conventional instruments. Although PSI design has undergone continuous development, the improvements have not been incorporated. Therefore, the aim of this study was to compare the surgical time and radiological outcomes between advanced-design PSI and conventional instruments. Methods: We conducted a retrospective review of 328 patients who underwent primary TKAs using PSI for osteoarthritis and compared them with 328 matched patients who underwent TKA performed with conventional instruments during the same period (March 2023 to August 2024). We compared the surgical time and component alignment between the advanced-design PSI group and the conventional instrument group. Results: The average surgical time was significantly shorter in the advanced-design PSI group (47.6 ± 12.4 min) compared to the conventional instrument group (59.2 ± 14.2 min, p < 0.05). The advanced PSI design group had a significantly lower occurrence of outliers in hip–knee–ankle alignment (7%) compared to the conventional instrument group (36.3%). This trend was also observed in femoral coronal alignment, tibial coronal alignment, and femoral sagittal alignment. Conclusions: The use of advanced-design PSI demonstrated significantly reduced surgical time and improved alignment compared to conventional instruments. This highlights that proper design is a key factor for PSI to achieve superior biomechanical effects. Our study shows that advanced-design PSI technology has the potential to replace conventional instruments in TKA, though further research is required to determine its clinical outcomes and economic benefits.
Retrospective Single-Center Analysis of 5575 Spinal Surgeries for Complication Associations and Potential Future Use of Generated Data
Authors: Materlik Yoram , Tronnier Volker Martin , Bonsanto Matteo Mario
Published: January 2025

Background: This study aims to retrospectively detect associations with postoperative complications in spinal surgeries during the hospitalization period using standardized, single-center data to validate a method for complication detection and discuss the potential future use of generated data. Methods: Data were generated in 2006–2019 from a standardized, weekly complications conference reviewing all neurosurgical operations at the University Hospital Luebeck. Paper-based data were recorded in a standardized manner during the conference and transferred with a time delay of one week into a proprietary complication register. A total of 5575 cases were grouped based on the diagnosis, surgical localization, approach, instrumentation, previous operations, surgery indication, age, ASA score, and pre-existing conditions. Retrospective analysis was performed using a logistic regression detecting complication associations. The results were compared to the literature validating the method of complication detection. Results: Mean cohort age: 58.83 years. Overall complication rate: 10.9%. Mortality rate: 0.25%. The statistically significant complication associations were age; an age of >60; the localization (cervical, thoracic); a cervical tumor or trauma diagnosis; lumbar degenerative conditions, tumor, trauma, or infection; a cervical hemi-/laminectomy and vertebral body replacement; a lumbar hemi-/laminectomy, posterior spondylodesis, and 360° fusion; lumbar instrumentation, with an ASA score of three and four; a ventral and combined/360° approach; a lumbar combined/360° revision; two, three and ≥four pre-existing conditions; hypertension; osteoporosis; arrhythmia; an oncological condition; kidney dysfunction; stroke; and thrombosis. Conclusions: Documenting risk profiles for spinal procedures is important in identifying postoperative complications. The available data provide a comprehensive overview within a single center for spinal surgeries. Standardized complication recording during an established complication conference in the clinical routine enables the detection of significant complications. It is desirable to standardize the registration of postoperative complications to facilitate comparability across different institutions. The results may contribute to national or international databases used for automated AI risk profiling.
Efficacy Assessment of Biological Treatments in Severe Asthma
Authors: Laorden Daniel , Domínguez-Ortega Javier , Romero David , Villamañán Elena , Mariscal-Aguilar Pablo , Granda Paula , Quirce Santiago , Álvarez-Sala Rodolfo ,   on behalf of ASMAGRAVE-HULP Group
Published: January 2025

Uncontrolled, severe asthma remains a significant clinical challenge, affecting a small proportion of asthma patients worldwide. Despite advancements in treatment options, a subset of patients continues to experience frequent exacerbations, uncontrolled symptoms, and impaired quality of life. The advent of biological therapies has revolutionized the management of severe asthma, offering targeted treatments that address specific inflammatory pathways. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the efficacy and response criteria of biological treatments in severe asthma, focusing on clinical, functional, and inflammatory markers used to help in the evaluation of the biologic treatment. Key response criteria include symptom control, reduction in exacerbations, improvement in lung function, and a reduction in or the discontinuation of oral corticosteroids. Biomarkers such as blood eosinophils and exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO) are essential tools in guiding treatment adjustments. Real-world studies underscore the importance of personalized treatment strategies, as variability in response to biological therapies can be significant. The emergence of tools such as the FEOS score and EXACTO questionnaire offer quantitative measures for assessing biological response and guiding clinical decisions. Additionally, predictive factors for better or poorer responses, such as pre-treatment lung function and comorbidities, like obesity and rhinosinusitis, are critical in patient selection. This review highlights the need for ongoing reassessments and potential modifications of therapy in cases of suboptimal response. Practical considerations for switching biological therapies are discussed, emphasizing the importance of tailoring treatments to individual patient profiles and disease phenotypes. With the continued development of personalized medicine, the outlook for patients with severe asthma is improving, selecting specific biomarkers to improve the selection of the biologic treatment.
Medical Digital Twin: A Review on Technical Principles and Clinical Applications
Authors: Tortora Mario , Pacchiano Francesco , Ferraciolli Suely Fazio , Criscuolo Sabrina , Gagliardo Cristina , Jaber Katya , Angelicchio Manuel , Briganti Francesco , Caranci Ferdinando , Tortora Fabio , Negro Alberto
Published: January 2025

The usage of digital twins (DTs) is growing across a wide range of businesses. The health sector is one area where DT use has recently increased. Ultimately, the concept of digital health twins holds the potential to enhance human existence by transforming disease prevention, health preservation, diagnosis, treatment, and management. Big data’s explosive expansion, combined with ongoing developments in data science (DS) and artificial intelligence (AI), might greatly speed up research and development by supplying crucial data, a strong cyber technical infrastructure, and scientific know-how. The field of healthcare applications is still in its infancy, despite the fact that there are several DT programs in the military and industry. This review’s aim is to present this cutting-edge technology, which focuses on neurology, as one of the most exciting new developments in the medical industry. Through innovative research and development in DT technology, we anticipate the formation of a global cooperative effort among stakeholders to improve health care and the standard of living for millions of people globally.
Differences in Personality Between High-Ability and Average-Ability University Students
Authors: Flores-Bravo Juan Francisco , Rodríguez-Naveiras Elena , Valadez Sierra María de los Dolores , Costantini Dylan , Borges África
Published: January 2025

Despite the growing body of research examining the personality traits of individuals with high abilities, little clarity exists about how they differ from the general population, especially within the university context. This study aimed to identify distinct personality traits by examining 268 high-ability university students alongside a matched average-ability group through a retrospective ex post facto design. Results revealed significant differences only in the trait of responsibility (p = 0.037), with lower scores observed among high-ability students. This outcome may be related to specific academic environmental factors, such as insufficient challenges. It can be concluded that, although stereotypes often associate high-ability students with certain personality traits, such as openness to experience, the present results do not reflect such differences. Therefore, it is important to conduct well-designed studies to determine the characteristics of high-ability individuals and how they differ from average-ability students.
A Short Review of Strategies for Augmenting Organism Recruitment on Coastal Defense Structures
Authors: Ben-Natan Almog , Shashar Nadav
Published: January 2025

The global demand for coastal urbanization is rising with the increasing population. Alas, living close to the ocean threatens human endeavors with high currents, waves, and increasing storm frequency. Accordingly, the need for more coastal defense structures (CDSs) rises. Structures built from complex units meant to prevent and/or mitigate coastal erosion and floods, additionally providing wave protection or wave attenuation, are constructed on and near natural habitats where they alter local ecosystems. Traditional CDSs mostly fail to harbor diverse and abundant communities. However, this can be changed by eco-friendly methodologies and designs that are being tested and implemented to improve CDSs’ ecological value. Some of these can be implemented during the construction period, while others can fit on existing structures, such as wave breakers and seawalls. Effective methods include augmenting surface rugosity through strategic perforations, integrating artificial panels for increased complexity, implementing soft (naturally based) engineering solutions such as geotextiles, replacing industrial concrete mixtures for CDS construction with “green concrete” and ecologically friendly mixtures, and using alternative, eco-friendly units in CDS erections. In this mini review, we suggest that by integrating sustainable practices into coastal development, we can significantly mitigate the ecological damage caused by traditional CDSs and promote more harmonious relationships between human construction and the marine environment. This shift towards environmentally conscious coastal defenses is essential and a responsibility for ensuring the long-term sustainability of our coastal communities and the health of our oceans. We present current methodologies used on breakwaters worldwide.
Probabilistic Noise Detection and Weighted Non-Negative Matrix Factorization-Based Noise Reduction Methods for Snapping Shrimp Noise
Authors: Park Suhyeon , Seok Jongwon , Hong Jungpyo
Published: January 2025

Snapping Shrimps (SSs) live in warm marine areas. Snapping Shrimps Noise (SSN), loud sounds generated by these underwater creatures, serves as a major source of in performance degradation by decreasing the Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR) for underwater acoustic communication and target detection. Thus, we propose a unified solution for SSN detection and reduction in this paper. First, Signal Presence Probability (SPP) is calculated for SSN detection, and then the SPP is provided to Non-negative Matrix Factorization (NMF) as a weight for SSN reduction. In the proposed method, SPP acts as a key factor for SSN detection and reduction. To verify the effectiveness of the proposed method, the SAVEX-15 dataset, real ocean data containing SSN, is used. As a result of SSN detection, it was confirmed that SPP presented the highest performance in the Receiver Operating Characteristics curve, and we achieved 0.014 higher Area Under the Curve compared to competing methods. In addition, Continuous Wave and Linear Frequency Modulation signals were set as target signals and combined with the SAVEX-15 data for evaluation of noise reduction performance. As a result, the performance of the SPP-weighted NMF (WNMF) presented at least 2 dB higher SNR and SDR while maintaining less LSD compared to the Optimally Modified Log Spectral Amplitude estimator and NMF.
Smoke Simulation with Detail Enhancement in Ship Fires
Authors: Tao Rui , Ren Hongxiang , Yang Xiao , Wang Delong , Sun Jian
Published: January 2025

Smoke simulation is a crucial yet challenging aspect of constructing ship fire scenarios. For the Eulerian smoke simulation method, the low-resolution grid results in a loss of smoke detail, while the high-resolution grid faces significant computational costs. To address this issue, a detail enhancement approach is proposed for smoke simulation in ship fire scenarios based on vortex particles, aiming at high-realism smoke simulation on a low-resolution grid. The simulation domain is first discretized using a low-resolution grid to compute the basic flow. Next, the vortex particles are sampled within the grid, and the loss of vorticity is measured before and after vortex stretching to compensate for the missing smoke details. In our approach, a geometric method is employed to efficiently capture the stretching of vortex structures. The computational results demonstrate that turbulence details can be effectively captured in a low-resolution grid while maintaining the real-time performance of the simulation. The practical application value of our approach is demonstrated in improving the realism of ship fire scenarios.
Histone Arginine Methylation in the Kidneys of Rana sylvatica During Freeze–Thaw Cycle
Authors: Taiwo Olawale O. , Storey Kenneth B.
Published: January 2025

Freeze tolerance is a remarkable adaptive trait exhibited by wood frogs (Rana sylvatica) during their hibernation period. To show the epigenetic mechanisms that contribute to kidney protection during freezing stress, this present study provides the first investigation of the role and dynamics of histone arginine methylation and the expression of protein arginine methyltransferases (PRMTs) in a freeze-tolerant vertebrate. Kidney samples from three groups were assessed: (a) control frogs acclimated at 5 °C, (b) 24 h frozen frogs, and (c) 8 h thawed frogs. Our findings revealed significant downregulation of PRMT1, PRMT3, and PRMT5 in kidneys from frozen wood frogs compared to the control group. This downregulation indicates a potential role for PRMT enzymes in the regulation of arginine methylation under freezing stress. In addition, we observed distinct changes in histone marks. H3R17me2a showed significant upregulation after 24 h of freezing, potentially indicating its involvement in the activation of genes related to freezing survival. By contrast, H3R26me2a was downregulated after both 24 h freezing and 8 h thawing, whereas H3R8me2a showed sustained levels after freezing but was downregulated after thawing. These findings highlight the dynamic nature of histone arginine methylation and PRMT expression in wood frog kidneys during freezing–thawing. Our results indicate that epigenetic modifications play a crucial role in shaping the adaptive responses of wood frog kidneys to freezing stress and contribute new information on the underlying biochemical modifications that support vertebrate freeze tolerance.
Risk of Chemical Pollution in Olifants River Basin, South Africa: Human Health Implications
Authors: Addo-Bediako Abraham
Published: January 2025

Chemical pollution in freshwater ecosystems poses a significant environmental threat, often hindering access to safe drinking water for human populations. The Olifants River Basin in South Africa is particularly vulnerable due to escalating mining and agricultural activities, and domestic waste discharged into the rivers. In this study, the risk posed to humans by exposure to potentially toxic elements (PTEs) in water from two rivers, the Blyde and Steelpoort, was assessed. Water samples were collected from upstream, midstream, and downstream locations of these rivers, and the concentrations of eight PTEs (Arsenic, Cadmium, Chromium, Iron, Manganese, Nickel, Lead, and Zinc) were determined using inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectrophotometry. Furthermore, two pathways of exposure, direct ingestion and dermal absorption, were used to evaluate their potential impacts on human health. The findings indicate that direct ingestion poses a greater risk to human health compared to dermal absorption. While PTEs may pose little non-carcinogenic risk for adults, higher risk was observed in children. This is an indication that children are at higher risk using water from the rivers, sometimes without any form of treatment. When carcinogenic risks (CRs) were computed for both adults and children for As, Cr, Ni, and Pb levels, the CR values were above the threshold limit, except for Pb, indicating a potential carcinogenic risk. This study underscores the need for regular monitoring of chemical pollution, and the implementation of effective mitigation strategies to safeguard both river ecosystems and human health, including proper treatment of water for domestic and agricultural purposes.
Microfluidic Integration of Magnetically Functionalized Microwires for Flow Cytometry Protein Quantification
Authors: Clime Liviu , Pavel Catalin , Malic Lidija , Nassif Christina , Geissler Matthias , Lupu Nicoleta , Óvári Tibor-Adrian , Poncelet Lucas , Veilleux Gaétan , Moslemi Elham , Hernández-Castro Javier Alejandro , Sinnett Daniel , Che Diping , Veres Teodor
Published: January 2025

A novel approach to protein quantification utilizing a microfluidic platform activated by a magnetic assembly of functionalized magnetic beads around soft magnetic capture centers is presented. Functionalized magnetic beads, known for their high surface area and facile manipulation under external magnetic fields, are injected inside microfluidic channels and immobilized magnetically on the surface of glass-coated soft magnetic microwires placed along the symmetry axis of these channels. A fluorescent (Cy5) immunomagnetic sandwich ELISA is then performed by sequentially flowing the sample and all necessary reagents in the microfluidic channels. Direct protein quantification is performed by magnetically releasing the beads from the microwire and evaluating their fluorescence intensity with the help of a miniature (microfluidic-based) flow cytometer. Measurements of ICAM-1 protein concentration in human blood plasma samples confirm the feasibility of the approach through extensive performance benchmarking. The automation and multiplexing capabilities of the proposed platform further demonstrate its potential for protein quantification in point-of-care settings using microfluidics and miniature flow cytometry instruments.