bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Improving student understanding of quantum measurement in infinite-dimensional Hilbert space using a research-based multiple-choice question sequence
Authors: Li Yangqiuting , Singh Chandralekha
Published: January 2025

Research-based multiple-choice questions implemented in class with peer instruction have been shown to be an effective tool for improving students’ engagement and learning outcomes. Moreover, multiple-choice questions that are carefully sequenced to build on each other can be particularly helpful for students to develop a systematic understanding of concepts pertaining to a theme. Here, we discuss the development, validation, and implementation of a multiple-choice question sequence (MQS) on the topic of quantum measurement in the context of wave functions in the infinite-dimensional Hilbert space. This MQS was developed using students’ common difficulties with quantum measurements as a guide and was implemented in a junior-/senior-level quantum mechanics course at a large research university in the U.S. We compare student performance on assessment tasks focusing on quantum measurement before and after the implementation of the MQS and discuss how different difficulties were reduced and how to further improve students’ conceptual understanding of quantum measurement in infinite-dimensional Hilbert space.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Statistical mechanics and machine learning of the
α
-Rényi ensemble
Authors: Jreissaty Andrew , Carrasquilla Juan
Published: January 2025

We study the statistical physics of the classical Ising model in the so-called α-Rényi ensemble, a finite-temperature thermal state approximation that minimizes a modified free energy based on the α-Rényi entropy. We begin by characterizing its critical behavior in mean-field theory in different regimes of the Rényi index α. Next, we re-introduce correlations and consider the model in one and two dimensions, presenting analytical arguments for the former and devising a Monte Carlo approach to the study of the latter. Remarkably, we find that while mean-field predicts a continuous phase transition below a threshold index value of α∼1.303 and a first-order transition above it, the Monte Carlo results in two dimensions point to a continuous transition at all α. We conclude by performing a variational minimization of the α-Rényi free energy using a recurrent neural network (RNN) where we find that the RNN performs well in two dimensions when compared to the Monte Carlo simulations. Our work highlights the potential opportunities and limitations associated with the use of the α-Rényi ensemble formalism in probing the thermodynamic equilibrium properties of classical and quantum systems.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Nonthermal electron-photon steady states in open cavity quantum materials
Authors: Flores-Calderón R. , Islam Md Mursalin , Pini Michele , Piazza Francesco
Published: January 2025

Coupling a system to two different baths can lead to novel phenomena escaping the constraints of thermal equilibrium. In quantum materials inside optical cavities, this feature can be exploited as electrons and cavity photons are easily pulled away from their mutual equilibrium, even in the steady state. This offers new routes for a noninvasive control of material properties and functionalities. We show that the absence of thermal equilibrium between electrons and photons leads to reduced symmetries of the steady-state electronic distribution function. Moreover, by defining an effective temperature from the on-shell distribution function, we find a nonmonotonic behavior as a function of cavity frequency, consistent with recent experimental findings. Finally, we show that, the nonthermal behavior leads to qualitative modifications of the materials properties, as the standard Sommerfeld expansion for observables is modified by a leading-order correction linearly proportional to the temperature difference between the two baths and to the frequency derivative of the electron damping.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Low-loss on-chip superconducting microwave circulator assisted by shunting capacitors
Authors: Kumar N. Pradeep , Le Dat Thanh , Pakkiam Prasanna , Stace Thomas M. , Fedorov Arkady
Published: January 2025

Ferrite-free circulators that are passive and readily integratable on a chip are highly sought-after in quantum technologies based on superconducting circuits. In our previous work, we implemented such a circulator using a three-Josephson-junction loop that exhibited unambiguous nonreciprocity and signal circulation, but required junction energies to be within 1% of design values. This tolerance is tighter than standard junction fabrication methods provide, so we propose and demonstrate a design improvement that relaxes the required junction fabrication precision, allowing for higher device performance and fabrication yield. Specifically, we introduce large direct capacitive couplings between the waveguides, which based on the modeling we describe here, requires less stringent junction fabrication tolerance. We implement the design, and measure enhanced “circulation fidelity” above 97%, with optimized on-resonance insertion loss of 0.2 dB, isolation of 18 dB, and power reflectance of −15dB, in good agreement with model calculations.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Harnessing Long-Range Temporal Correlations for Advanced Epilepsy Classification
Authors: Grubov Vadim V. , Kuc Alexander K. , Kurkin Semen A. , Andrikov Denis A. , Utyashev Nikita , Maksimenko Vladimir A. , Karpov Oleg E. , Hramov Alexander E.
Published: January 2025

In this study, we suggest that detrended fluctuation analysis may reveal alternations in long-range temporal correlations associated with epileptic status. We consider two groups of subjects: patients with confirmed focal epilepsy, and healthy controls. Both groups were exposed to intermittent photic stimulation. Analysis based on event-related spectral perturbations revealed that photic driving in epileptic patients is higher in the α band and lower in other bands. This result is related to altered excitability in nonphotosensitive epilepsy. To prove this, we tested two hypotheses. First, we assess long-range temporal correlations using detrended fluctuation analysis, with the objective of evaluating whether this metric differs between epileptic patients and healthy controls through the application of between-subject statistics. Second, we investigate whether detrended fluctuation analysis provides more valuable insights into the aforementioned differences in comparison to traditional spectral analysis of brain signals. More precisely, we test if a machine learning algorithm trained on detrended fluctuation analysis-based features outperforms one trained on the spectral-based features in classifying between epileptic patients and controls. Furthermore, we study whether the features differ between classifiers by implementing feature importance assessment. Our findings demonstrate that the classifier based on detrended fluctuation analysis exhibits higher efficiency, and its features are notably distinct from those of the classifier based on spectral analysis. We postulate that the long-range temporal correlations captured via detrended fluctuation analysis reveal novel aspects of the epileptic brain response to intermittent photic stimulation, and they are more pronounced than the features captured via spectral analysis.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Literacy beyond the early years: teaching complex texts, sustaining joy
Authors: French Ruth
Published: January 2025

Purpose

The aim of this paper is to explain key aspects of teaching and learning relevant to sustaining literacy development beyond the early years of schooling, including effective teaching of more complex texts. The paper takes as its point of departure Touchstone 9 of the Foundation Touchstones promoted by the Foundation of Learning and Literacy: “Effective literacy teaching and learning need to continue beyond the early years as literacy learning and texts become more complex”.

Design/methodology/approach

This essay adopts a general narrative review approach, canvassing a range of relevant research and examples, along with implications for teaching practice.

Findings

Research shows that beyond the early years of school, literacy development involves learners responding to a range of new demands – demands for which foundational literacy skills are a necessary but not sufficient resource. Effective teaching recognises and draws learners’ attention to how language works in different discipline areas while concurrently supporting learning of content knowledge. The sustaining of enjoyment in literate activity is also identified as an important dimension of ongoing literacy development.

Originality/value

This paper distils scholarship of teaching and learning as well as insights from educational linguistics to outline some important ways in which teachers can support learners in expanding their literacy repertoires across the school years.
Anterior segment optical coherence tomography (AS‐OCT) assisted analysis of characteristics of graft dehiscence after Descemet membrane endothelial keratoplasty (DMEK) for failed penetrating keratoplasty
Authors: Vishwakarma Pratima , Mestanoglu Mert , Welge‐Lüßen Veronika , Schlereth Simona , Cursiefen Claus , Bachmann Björn
Published: January 2025

Purpose

To analyse anterior segment optical coherence tomography (AS‐OCT) parameters of graft dehiscence after Descemet membrane endothelial keratoplasty (DMEK) for graft failure post penetrating keratoplasty (PK).

Methods

Retrospective evaluation of AS‐OCT images of 142 dehiscences post‐DMEK in 75 eyes. Dehiscences' size, depth, location, correlation with graft‐host interface (GHI) override and step at GHI were assessed.

Results

The majority of patients were male (58.7%) and mean age was 67 ± 13.6 years. Multiple dehiscences were observed in 49.3% eyes. Rebubbling was required once in 72% and multiple times in 24% eyes. Among 142 dehiscences, crossing over GHI was noted in 53.5%. The median distance of peripheral edge of dehiscences from GHI was 0.21 mm. Steps at GHI were noted in 41.5% where 22.5% dehiscences with step crossed the GHI. For dehiscences crossing versus not crossing GHI, no significant difference was noted in median depth (p = 0.268) and size (p = 0.206). For dehiscences crossing over GHI with presence versus absence of step, median depth (p = 0.23) and size (p = 0.196) showed no significant difference. No significant difference was noted in dehiscences' median depth (p = 0.16) and size (p = 0.926) among different step sizes. Incidence of dehiscence with or without steps (p = 0.8853) and graded as per size of steps, showed no significant difference.

Conclusion

Size and depth of dehiscence were not influenced by their crossing over GHI or the presence and size of steps. Dehiscences typically occurred in close vicinity to GHI, suggesting that DMEK graft should be placed 0.25 mm centrally from the prior PK interface, independent of GHI irregularities.
Investigation of Cannabidiol's Protective Effects on Cadmium‐Induced Toxicity in Mice
Authors: Sahin Serkan , Mortas Tulay , Muderrisoglu Ahmet , Turksoy Vugar Ali
Published: January 2025

Current chelation treatments used for cadmium poisoning may cause some serious side effects. Thus, safer novel treatments could be promising for clinical use. This study evaluated the effects of cannabidiol on Cd toxicity. Four groups of 10 mice were formed: Groups I and III were cadmium‐free, while groups II and IV received 50 mg/L cadmium in drinking water. Groups III and IV received daily cannabidiol (25 mg/kg) via intragastric gavage. After 30 days, the animals were killed, and blood and tissue samples were collected. Oxidative stress and inflammation markers, including glutathione, catalase, myeloperoxidase, TNF‐α, IL‐1β and IL‐6, were analysed using ELISA. Additionally, histological evaluations of the liver, kidney and testis were performed. Cadmium exposure reduced glutathione and catalase levels in the blood, liver, kidney and testis, while increasing myeloperoxidase. Cannabidiol mitigated these effects on oxidative stress markers. Cannabidiol also reduced the increase in proinflammatory cytokines. Histopathological analysis revealed reduced liver and kidney damage in cannabidiol‐treated groups compared to cadmium‐only groups. In addition, histopathological evaluation showed CBD had no protective effect on the testicular tissue against Cd toxicity. Our results indicate that cannabidiol protects against some toxic effects of cadmium. If confirmed by future studies, cannabidiol may be proposed as a novel treatment for cadmium toxicity.
What We Know About TMEM175 in Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Wang Jing , Sun Xuechun , Cheng Lufeng , Qu Meijie , Zhang Chanyuan , Li Xueting , Zhou Lingyan
Published: January 2025

Background

Lysosome is a highly heterogeneous membranous organelle in eukaryotic cells, which regulates many physiological processes in the cell. Studies have found that lysosomal dysfunction disrupts cellular homeostasis and is associated with Parkinson's disease (PD). Transmembrane protein 175 (TMEM175) is a lysosomal cation channel whose activity is essential for lysosomal homeostasis. At present, it has been confirmed that TMEM175 is related to the pathogenesis of PD, but the relationship between the two remains unclear.

Aims

A thorough comprehension of the structure and function of TMEM175 would greatly contribute to elucidating the achievement of this objective. In this paper, the structure, composition, and function of TMEM175 and its relationship with PD will be reviewed.
Vestibular Function in Patients With Vestibular Neuritis Experiencing Prodromal Dizziness
Authors: Fujimoto Chisato , Sugasawa Keiko , Ichijo Kentaro , Oka Mineko , Kamogashira Teru , Kinoshita Makoto , Kawahara Takuya , Yamasoba Tatsuya
Published: January 2025

Introduction

It is unknown whether prodromal dizziness (PD) before an attack of vestibular neuritis (VN) has an association with peripheral vestibular lesions. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether the severity of vestibular dysfunction has an association with the presence of PD.

Methods

We reviewed the medical records of 88 consecutive unilateral VN patients with unilateral canal paresis in caloric testing. Caloric test, cervical vestibular evoked myogenic potential test to air‐conducted sound (ACS cVEMP), ocular vestibular evoked myogenic potential test to bone‐conducted vibration (BCV oVEMP) and video head impulse test (vHIT) were used as vestibular function tests. Binomial logistic regression analyses were performed to see whether the subjects' age, sex, disease duration or the presence of PD is associated with the presence of vestibular dysfunction.

Results

Seventeen (19%) experienced an episode of PD. There was no significant association between the presence of PD and abnormality in ACS cVEMPs, BCV oVEMPs, vHIT for the posterior semicircular canal (SCC) or vHIT for the lateral SCC. The presence of PD had a significant positive association with abnormality in vHIT for the anterior SCC (ASCC) (p = 0.0248).

Conclusions

The presence of PD in VN may be associated with the peripheral vestibular lesion.
Biodiversity Metric Selection and Their Applications for Spatial Conservation Planning
Authors: Carroll Kathleen A. , Pidgeon Anna M. , Elsen Paul , Farwell Laura , Radeloff Volker C.
Published: January 2025

Aim

On‐the‐ground conservation efforts require managers to balance various and sometimes conflicting conservation goals. For instance, areas important for conserving threatened and endangered species may have little spatial agreement with high functional redundancy. Using prioritisation tools can further complicate conservation prioritisations if conflicting diversity metrics identify different high‐priority areas. We compared five community‐level diversity metrics for birds across the conterminous US to identify how much agreement existed between each before and after using a prioritisation framework.

Location

Contiguous US.

Methods

We examined spatial agreement among metrics before (a priori) and after (a posteriori) prioritisation using integer linear programming. We compared a posteriori outputs for 10% and 30% conservation goals. We also assessed data layer correlation and agreement (i.e., overlap) a priori and a posteriori.

Results

As expected, the a priori diversity metrics were poorly to moderately correlated (median = 0.31, range = 0.11–0.71), but all a posteriori solutions had areas of agreement. Accordingly, our a posteriori metrics identified different areas as high priority for conservation, none aligning well with the current protected areas (mean = 13%–15% agreement). However, the a posteriori approach allowed us to include a continuity constraint (identify adjacent important pixels) and easily find areas of high‐priority agreement.

Main Conclusions

Metric agreement depended on a priori or a posteriori evaluation, highlighting managers' challenges when deciding where and how to enact conservation. Given these challenges, a posteriori solutions best support multiple‐objective, complex and large planning conservation problems. Importantly, all of our a posteriori maps agreed in areas, suggesting aggregates of several metrics could instill certainty in decision‐making if prioritisation solutions were obtained at different times. Overall, our results underscore the critical importance of generating maps and metrics useful for on‐the‐ground management, carefully selecting biodiversity metrics that best reflect conservation goals and employing prioritisation software for generating conservation solutions.
Using UCAS MEM for Contextual Offers
Authors: Harvey Laura A. , Jong Stephanie T. , Smith Myles
Published: January 2025

Contextual admissions schemes are commonly used across the United Kingdom (UK) for admission into higher education (HE) institutions. These schemes consider an applicant's background and circumstances alongside academic achievement to provide a fairer evaluation of progression into university. Several contextual factors have been considered by HE providers and few have been evaluated in the literature. However, the University and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS) Multiple Equality Measure (MEM), introduced in 2018, is yet to be evaluated in contextual admissions schemes. This study evaluates the use of UCAS MEM data for contextual admissions at one mid‐sized UK institution using a difference‐in‐differences framework and institutional data on applications for academic years 2021/22 and 2022/23. We found that the introduction of contextual offers, using UCAS MEM data, reduced the likelihood that applicants declined their offer. Applicants were more likely to place the offer from the university as their insurance option. This suggests that the contextual offer increased the appeal of the institution as a solid insurance option, with a marginal increase in probability of study at the institution. Caution is needed when implementing a contextual admissions policy based on UCAS MEM. University policies should consider alignment with their Access and Participation Plan (APP) objectives and commitments, and to ensure applicants understand the basis on which they may be offered a contextual offer.
Unveiling wear mechanisms of tantalum carbide‐silicon carbide composites: Influence of silicon carbide content and sliding load
Authors: Pandey Smita , Chodisetti Surya Prakasarao , Kumar B. Venkata Manoj
Published: January 2025

Tantalum carbide (TaC), as ceramic coating, is known for its exceptional wear performance, however, the tribological behavior of bulk TaC ceramics is poorly understood and requires persistent research. In the current study, the tribology of spark plasma sintered TaC—SiC composites in dry sliding contacts against silicon carbide (SiC) counterbody under various sliding loads (5, 10, and 15 N) is investigated with respect to change in SiC content (from 0 to 65 vol%). With changes in reinforcement content and load, the coefficient of friction and wear rate varied in the range of 0.25–0.45 and 4.7 × 10−7–2.1 × 10−6 mm3/Nm, respectively. At 5 N load, dominant abrasion is observed for composites containing SiC content up to 35 vol%, while abrasion and mild fracture are observed for the composites containing above 35 vol% SiC. At 15 N load, abrasion and oxidation are observed on worn surfaces of monolithic TaC. TaC composites with ≤ 35 vol% SiC content exhibited abrasion, pull‐outs, and tribo‐oxidation, while composites with ≥ 50 vol% SiC content experienced severe fracture along with tribo‐oxidation. The presence of tribo‐oxidation on worn tracks at a higher sliding load (15 N) is confirmed by X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy results.
Interaction between breastfeeding duration and an obesity genetic risk score to predict body fat composition in European adolescents: The HELENA study
Authors: Baxevanis Georgios K. , Iglesia Iris , Seral‐Cortes Miguel , Sabroso‐Lasa Sergio , Flores‐Barrantes Paloma , Gottrand Frédéric , Meirhaeghe Aline , Kafatos Anthony , Widhalm Kurt , Hockamp Nele , Molnár Dénes , Marcos Ascensión , Nova Esther , González‐Gross Marcela , Gesteiro Eva , Gutiérrez Ángel , Manios Yannis , Anastasiou Costas A. , Rodríguez Gerardo , Moreno Luis A. ,   the HELENA Study Group
Published: January 2025

Background

Although the genetic interplay with the environment has a major impact on obesity development, little is known on whether breastfeeding could modulate the genetic predisposition to obesity.

Objectives

To investigate whether breastfeeding attenuates the effect of an obesity genetic risk score (GRS) on adiposity in European adolescents.

Methods

Totally 751 adolescents from the Healthy Lifestyle in Europe by Nutrition in Adolescence (HELENA) cross‐sectional study were included, divided according to breastfeeding status into never breastfed, 1–3 months and ≥4 months. Adjusting by socioeconomic status and lifestyle factors multiple linear regression models were used to assess (1) the main effect of breastfeeding duration and (2) its interaction effect with an obesity GRS, to predict different adiposity measures.

Results

A significant negative association between ≥4 months of breastfeeding and waist circumference (WC) z‐score was observed [β (95% confidence interval), p‐value] = [β = −0.189 (−0.37, −0.00), p = 0.044]. Also, significant interaction effects were observed for 1–3 and ≥4 months of breastfeeding and obesity GRS regarding body mass index (BMI) z‐score [β = 0.155 (0.06, 0.24), p = 0.001] and [β = 0.108 (0.01, 0.18), p = 0.020, respectively] and fat mass index (FMI) z‐score [β = 0.134 (0.04, 0.22), p = 0.003] and [β = 0.100 (0.01, 0.18), p = 0.026, respectively].

Conclusions

Breastfeeding modulates the association between the obesity GRS and body composition in adolescents.
TYK2:p.Pro1104Ala Variant Protects Against Autoimmunity by Modulating Immune Cell Levels
Authors: Steri Maristella , Orrù Valeria , Sidore Carlo , Mulas Antonella , Pitzalis Maristella , Busonero Fabio , Maschio Andrea , Serra Valentina , Dei Mariano , Lai Sandra , Virdis Francesca , Lobina Monia , Loizedda Annalisa , Marongiu Michele , Masala Marco , Floris Matteo , Curreli Nicolò , Balaci Lenuta , Loi Francesco , Pilia Maria Grazia , Delitala Alessandro , Fiorillo Edoardo , Schlessinger David , Zoledziewska Magdalena
Published: January 2025

The TYK2:p.Pro1104Ala (rs34536443) hypomorph variant has been associated with protection against numerous autoimmune disorders. Thus, its mechanism of action becomes of great interest. Here, consistent with the participation of activated immune cells in autoimmunity, we show that the variant regulates the levels of immune cells at a human, general population level and is associated particularly with higher levels of T and B lymphocytes, especially the naïve (non‐activated) compartment. Also, consistent with a protective function in autoimmunity, the level of regulatory CD4+ T cells was increased. Thus, this variant decreases immune activation thereby protecting from autoimmunity. Our work links the cellular mechanism regulated by the TYK2:p.Pro1104Ala variant to autoimmunity protection and supports TYK2 as a therapeutic target in autoimmunity.
Prediction of deep vein thrombosis in pregnant women by platelet indices: A retrospective case–control study
Authors: Topkara Serap , Çelen Şevki
Published: January 2025

Aims

This study aimed to investigate the predictive value of the platelet indices for the diagnosis of acute deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in pregnant women.

Materials and Methods

Pregnant women aged 20–45 years who presented to the emergency room with leg pain and edema and underwent bilateral lower extremity venous Doppler examination for DVT were included in the study. Platelet large cell ratio (P‐LCR), platelet distribution width (PDW) and mean platelet volume (MPV) values, which provide information on current platelet activity in the hemogram parameters recorded at first presentation in the emergency department, were analyzed between the two groups. Pregnant women with a history of venous thromboembolism, anticoagulant medication, heart disease, cancer, essential thrombocytopenia, gestational thrombocytopenia, pulmonary embolism, and multiple pregnancies were excluded.

Results

A total of 125 participants were included in the study. Acute DVT was diagnosed in 37 participants using venous Doppler of the lower extremities. In the remaining 88 patients, the diagnosis of DVT was excluded. There was no significant difference between the groups in terms of age, body mass index, parity, and gestational age at diagnosis. Although platelet counts were similar between groups, P‐LCR, PDW, and MPV values, which provide information on platelet shape and volume, were statistically significantly lower in Group DVT (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

According to this study, low MPV, PDW and P‐LCR values in pregnant women can be evaluated as independent markers in the diagnosis of acute DVT or these markers can be included in the DVT scoring system for pregnant women.
A New Short‐Term Assessment Condition for Evaluating Nonfunctional Electromyographic Activity of Masseter Muscle During Wakefulness
Authors: Angkulmahasuk Suvichaya , Nishiyama Akira , Ishiyama Hiroyuki , Fueki Kenji
Published: January 2025

Background

Awake bruxism involves masticatory muscle activity during wakefulness, potentially leading to clinical concerns. Accurate electromyography (EMG) assessment is challenging with brief durations.

Objective

To establish a reliable, short‐term measure for nonfunctional masseter muscle activity during wakefulness.

Methods

Thirty‐four healthy participants completed the Oral Behavior Checklist (OBC) and were assessed with an EMG logger (FLA‐500‐SD) across three sessions. On Day 1, participants performed four tasks (reading, bead‐grabbing, video watching and math) for 15 min each in random order. On Day 2, scheduled at least 1 week later, tasks were repeated in a different sequence. On Day 3, participants underwent a 7‐h continuous EMG recording during daily activities while maintaining activity diaries. Main outcomes included the mean number of EMG bursts per hour, burst duration, burst peak value relative to maximum voluntary contraction (%MVC) and integral value (μV.s, %MVC.s).

Results

Participants (mean age: 28.0 ± 3.1) scored low on AB likelihood per partial OBC results, contrasting with EMG activity levels. Significant differences in EMG parameters were noted across tasks, with consistent values between Days 1 and 2. The reading, video, and math tasks showed strongest correlations with long‐term EMG measurements (rs = 0.62–0.66, p < 0.001). Reading task demonstrated high test–retest reliability (ICC > 0.9), with the highest specificity (100%) and positive predictive value, though sensitivity was limited compared with long‐term AB measures.

Conclusions

EMG measurements during a 15‐min reading task may correspond to prolonged monitoring, suggesting the potential for short‐task EMG assessments in practice. Integrating such assessments might enhance diagnostic accuracy, although judgement remains essential.
“Il gioco” as collaborative method: Feminist and antiracist musings on the power of play
Authors: Carney Megan A. , Vannini Sara , Genovese Alessio , Saguto Daniele , Jammeh Muhammed , Deme Ibrahima , Fantin Alma
Published: January 2025

What transformative potential might reside in play as a collaborative method, particularly in contexts of migration and with populations of marginalized youth? In this paper, we explore play “in anthropology and as anthropology” while drawing from our collective experiences with collaborative research through a Palermo‐based participatory film and storytelling lab that foregrounds “il gioco” (play). We discuss the lab's approach to play as a collaborative method in the process of co‐creation that helps with navigating social and linguistic differences, invites practices of improvisation, and aspires to disrupt uneven landscapes of power. We also consider how play can serve as a form of ethnography and mode of analysis. Engaging with theory on collaborative anthropology, creative and experimental ethnography, and decolonizing methodologies, we gesture to the possibilities for critical collaborative play as a feminist, antiracist methodological orientation. Particularly as the field of anthropology grapples with existential crises and strives toward decolonizing futures, play as method warrants further critical attention.
Gastric Accommodation Testing Using Hybrid Nuclear Imaging Volumetry and Combined High‐Resolution Manometry‐Nutrient Drink Test: A Pilot Study in Healthy Individuals
Authors: Tagiling Nashrulhaq , Lee Yeong Yeh , Mohd Rohani Mohd Fazrin , Udin Muhamad Yusri , Abdul Aziz Azliani , Muhamad Siti Norhasliza , Musarudin Marianie , Abdul Razab Mohammad Khairul Azhar , Zainol Nurul Ain Shafiqah , Tan Phei Oon , Mat Nawi Norazlina
Published: January 2025

Background

Gastric accommodation (GA) testing is gaining clinical recognition as novel and minimally invasive modalities emerge. We investigated the feasibility of hybrid nuclear imaging volumetry (SPECT/CT) and combined high‐resolution manometry‐nutrient drink test (HRM‐NDT) to assess GA.

Methods

In this non‐randomized pilot study, [99mTc]NaTcO4 gastric SPECT/CT (250 mL protocol) and proximal gastric HRM‐NDT (~60 mL/min protocol) were performed separately within 30 days using Ensure Gold test meal (1.05 kcal/mL; Abbott). GA parameters were measured, and their preliminary associations were examined using Spearman's ρ and Hoeffding's D correlation tests. Data were presented as median ± normalized median absolute deviation.

Key Results

Twenty healthy, asymptomatic individuals (11 females; 23.5 ± 2.2 years, 23.7 ± 2.2 kg/m2) completed both procedures without serious adverse events and interrupted sessions. The accommodation volume and postprandial‐to‐fasting volume ratio from SPECT/CT were 325.8 ± 28.5 mL and 5.31 ± 1.28, respectively. During HRM‐NDT, the nadir‐intragastric pressure (IGP) was −6.6 ± 3.6 mmHg at an ingested volume of 360.0 ± 177.9 mL, and the area‐under‐curve of IGP was −1566.0 ± 1596.8 mmHg·mL. The maximum tolerated volume for reaching satiety/maximum discomfort was 450.0 ± 177.9 mL, and the area‐under‐curve of satiation score was 900.0 ± 266.9 satiation‐unit·mL. The area‐under‐curve of IGP showed significant associations with maximum tolerated volume (ρ: −0.702; D: 0.234) and the area‐under‐curve of satiation score (D: 0.119): all p < 0.01. No correlations were found between volumetric with manometric and subjective NDT GA parameters.

Conclusions & Inferences

SPECT/CT and HRM‐NDT are feasible and tolerable techniques for measuring GA in healthy individuals. Thus, determining their diagnostic utility among patient populations requires further optimization and standardization.
Echo‐Biometry Assessment of a Quadruple Pregnancy in a Captive Capybara
Authors: Donoso Flavia M. P. M. , Pizzutto Cristiane S. , Contardo Juan , Hagen Stefano C. F. , Sáez Daniel , Nunes Fernanda B. P. , Almeida Adriana H. , Assis Neto Antônio C.
Published: January 2025

A 5‐year‐old female capybara, conditioned ex situ before mating, was monitored by ultrasound to establish prenatal growth and assess fetal echo‐biometric variables. The records were taken twice weekly until delivery (i.e., 5 months). The measurements included gestational sac width (GSW), gestational sac height (GSH), gestational sac length (GSL), crown‐rump length (CRL), trunk diameter (TD), heart major axis (HMA), biparietal diameter (BDP), and femur length (FL). The gestational sacs were detected on the 25th day after mating (DAM), embryos appeared on the 42nd DAM, and the parturition of four healthy offspring occurred three days after reaching averages of 30.74 cm (CRL), 8.65 cm (TD), 5.37 cm (HMA), and 6.08 cm (BDP). For initial pregnancy and fetal growth, GSL and BDP seem to be the best measurements. The formulas shown here can be a reference for gestational age estimation. This longitudinal study shows that ultrasonography is helpful for early pregnancy diagnosis and gestational age determination in capybaras.
Possible complications in oral surgery and their management in patients affected by type 1 diabetes: narrative review
Authors: Nagni Matteo , Severino Marco , Redi Lorenzo , Zizza Agostino , Pancrazi Gian Luca , Vavassori Emilio , D'Orto Bianca
Published: January 2025

Diabetes mellitus is a disease that affects millions of people worldwide, both in its juvenile form (type 1 diabetes) and in the form that affects adults and is related to lifestyle, diet, and sedentariness (type 2 diabetes). In addition to the disease itself, diabetes also includes various complications and, above all, creates a supportive environment for the development of further disorders and pathologies. Certain alterations favor oral pathologies in diabetic patients.
This narrative review aims to focus on diabetic patients and the possible oral complications that can occur in oral surgery sessions.
The MEDLINE database (NCBI PubMed and PMC) was employed to obtain sources of information. An online search was performed to select articles regarding complications in oral surgery for diabetic patients.
The search considered 52 articles using the following keywords: “diabetic patient,” “complications,” and “oral surgery.”
Although it is not possible to establish with certainty what the predisposing factors are, the scientific literature shows that the altered composition of saliva, together with the reduced immune response against bacteria, determines a lower antibacterial capacity in diabetic patients and, thus a higher frequency of inflammatory diseases caused by the accumulation of plaque and tartar; in particular, gingivitis, periodontitis, caries, aphthae or aphthous stomatitis, map tongue (benign migratory glossitis), xerostomia, tongue inflammation, and candidiasis.
In conclusion, the dentist must always take due account of all the needs of diabetic patients, trying to operate above all at the level of prevention and being aware of all the possible complications that diabetic patients could face during an oral surgery session.
La mujer que decide ser mamá. ¿Quién defiende a las madres?
Authors: Hernández Castaño María José
Published: January 2025

Este trabajo pretende visibilizar las violencias que atraviesan las mujeres que toman la decisión de ser madres en Colombia, resaltando que, el movimiento feminista no ha centralizado en su agenda, la necesidad de nombrar estas violencias y de reclamar la protección de la mujer madre. Se describen entonces, las violencias que atraviesan las mujeres durante el proceso de convertirse en madres, haciendo un particular énfasis en el desafió de conciliar el oficio de maternar y desempeñar un trabajo formal.  En consecuencia, se explora cómo hay una sobrecarga en la mujer, fomentada en estereotipos históricos y patriarcales en las labores de cuidado y cómo hay una carencia de estrategias de origen gubernamental y cultural que apoyen el proceso de conciliación. La imposibilidad de una conciliación procurando el cuidado de la salud física y psicológica de la madre resulta en una experiencia insatisfactoria para la mujer que no puede realizarse plenamente en ninguna de sus facetas. Al final, se exploran algunos ejemplos de iniciativas que han buscado dar respuesta a las violencias descritas y se insta a la agenda feminista a centralizar dentro de sus reivindicaciones las violencias de género que sufren las mujeres que deciden ser madres
Elastohydrodynamic Lubrication Traction Coefficient is Not a Property of the Liquid Alone
Authors: Bair Scott , Habchi Wassim
Published: January 2025

The slow progress in the prediction of elastohydrodynamic film thickness and friction may be attributed to the mistaken notion that a traction curve is equivalent to a rheological flow curve. A similar concept is being standardized by the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) for the traction coefficient of aerospace oils. Four standards teach that traction coefficient is an inherent physical property of oil and that full-film traction does not depend upon the roller material and that there can be traction measurements, which do not depend on the test rig. These traction coefficients are to be employed in models for thermal management analyses without the need for measuring primary properties. Through example calculations, using primary properties of turbine oil, it is shown here that elastohydrodynamic lubrication (EHL) friction is not a property of the liquid alone, and that it depends on at least two contact characteristics as well, namely, the aspect ratio and scale. Within the tribology literature, there is much evidence of the dependence of EHL friction on other contact parameters as well that are not characteristic of the fluid.
Bypassing senescence
Authors: VanHook Annalisa M.
Published: January 2025

A metabolic switch enables hepatocytes in damaged livers to escape senescence and form tumors.
Refractory pneumonia due to persistent SARS-CoV-2 infection in an immunocompromised host successfully treated with extended course nirmatrelvir/ritonavir
Authors: Sonoda Shiro , Shimada Sho , Sawada Atsushi , Yasuda Tomoka , Shirai Tsuyoshi , Furusawa Haruhiko , Tanaka Yukie , Tanimoto Kousuke , Takeuchi Hiroaki , Miyazaki Yasunari
Published: January 2025

Background

Immunocompromised individuals are infected with persistent severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and often refractory to treatment.

Case Summary

A 56-year-old woman undergoing chemotherapy for follicular lymphoma experienced relapsing pulmonary infiltrates and a consistently low cycle threshold value of nasal swab SARS-CoV-2 PCR over a 5-month period. Despite repeated remdesivir and glucocorticoid therapy, her respiratory symptoms worsened and progressed to respiratory failure. Viral genome analysis revealed that the variant strain at onset was XBB, whereas the strains repeatedly detected more than 2 months after onset were XBB.2.3.

Conclusion

The genome analysis indicated that genomic mutations accumulate due to continuous XBB infection. The patient recovered after treatment with nirmatrelvir/ritonavir for 20 days.
The Story behind the Science: On the discovery of respiratory syncytial virus
Authors: Casadevall Arturo , Roane Philip R. , Shenk Thomas , Roizman Bernard
Published: January 2025

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) was discovered in 1956 by the laboratory of Robert Chanock after its isolation from children with upper respiratory infections. Here, we review the events leading to its discovery including its prior isolation as chimpanzee coryza virus and its subsequent association with human disease.
Efficacy of yeast beta-glucan 1,3/1,6 supplementation on respiratory infection, fatigue, immune markers and gut health among moderate stress adults in Klang Valley of Malaysia: protocol for a randomised, double-blinded, placebo-controlled, parallel-group study
Authors: Mohamad Habibullah Nur Nadia , Shahar Suzana , Ismail Munirah , Ibrahim Norhayati , Kamaruddin Mohd Zul Amin , Tang Shirley Gee Hoon , Hamid Mohd Faisal Abdul , Ramasamy Kalavathy
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Yeast beta-glucan (YBG) are recognised for enhancing the immune system by activating macrophages, a key defence mechanism. Given the global prevalence and impact of upper respiratory tract infections (URTIs) on productivity and healthcare costs, YBG has shown promise as a potential therapeutic and preventive strategy for recurrent respiratory tract infections. However, little is known regarding the efficacy of YBG at lower dosages in relation to URTI, fatigue, immune response and uncertainties of how they affect the gut microbiota composition.

Methods and analysis

This 12-week randomised, double-blinded, placebo control, parallel-group clinical trial aims to evaluate the efficacy of YBG 1,3/1,6 on respiratory tract infection, fatigue, immune markers and gut health among adults with moderate stress. The study involves 198 adults aged 18–59 years with moderate stress levels as assessed using Perceived Stress Scale 10 (score 14–26) and Patient Health Questionnaire 9 (score ≥9); and had symptoms of common colds for the past 6 months as assessed using Jackson Cold Scale. These participants will be randomised into three groups, receiving YBG 1,3/1,6 at either 120 mg, 204 mg or a placebo. The outcomes measures include respiratory infection symptoms, fatigue, mood state and quality of life assessed using Wisconsin Upper Respiratory Symptoms Scale, Multidimensional Fatigue Inventory, Profile of Mood State and Short Form 36 Health Survey Questionnaire, respectively. In addition, full blood analysis and assessment of immune, inflammatory and oxidative stress biomarkers will be taken. Secondary outcome includes gut microbiota analysis using stool samples via 16S rRNA sequencing.

Ethics and dissemination

The research protocol of the study was reviewed and approved by the Research Ethics Committee of Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM/PPI/111/8/JEP-2023–211). The findings will be disseminated to participants, healthcare professionals and researchers via conference presentations and peer-reviewed publications.

Trial registration number

NCT48336189
Adaptive clinical trial of AZD7442 and SARS-CoV-2 vaccination in immunosuppressed patients highly vulnerable to infection with SARS-CoV-2 virus (RAPID-PROTECTION): protocol for a multicentre, interventional open-label, randomised controlled trial
Authors: Varley Melanie , Euden Joanne , Adams Richard , Barnes Eleanor , Bodman Craig , Choy Ernest , Cicconi Paola , Dagley Vivien , Ewer Katie , Griffin Sian , Harris Debbie , Hill Adrian , Hood Kerenza , Knapper Steven , Pringle Shirley , Porter Catherine , Ottensmeier Christian H , Raisanen Lawrence , Ray Ruby , Tangney Rebecca , Wilson Keith , Nixon Lisette Sheena , Thomas-Jones Emma , Tuthill Mark
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Despite repeated vaccinations against SARS-CoV-2 virus, patients who are immunocompromised remain at very high risk of catching SARS-CoV-2 virus and becoming unwell. AZD7442 (Evusheld) is a long-acting monoclonal antibody treatment that has been shown in clinical trials to prevent SARS-CoV-2 infection for up to a year after a single dose. Vaccines require a healthy immune system to generate protective immunity. AZD7442 may prevent SARS-CoV-2 infection in immunocompromised individuals that may not have responded to repeated vaccinations against SARS-CoV-2 virus. Unlike vaccinations, AZD7442 reaches effective levels within the body a few hours after a single dose. The RAPID-PROTECTION trial will determine the levels of immune protection that AZD7442 offers patients at the very highest risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection and whether this protection can be further enhanced by repeated vaccination against SARS-CoV-2 virus.

Methods

RAPID-PROTECTION is a multicentre, interventional and open-label adaptive platform trial that aims to recruit 350 immunocompromised participants across five UK centres. Participants will be administered AZD7442 on day 0 followed by a SARS-CoV-2 vaccination 28 days later. Participants will be randomised (1:1) to the Moderna vaccine or Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine. Participant samples will be taken at baseline and at multiple timepoints after the administration of AZD7442.

Analysis

The participant samples will be analysed to measure the function and magnitude of SARS-CoV-2 specific antibody and T-cell responses at baseline and at multiple timepoints after the administration of AZD7442. The immunological effect of the study interventions will be determined by comparison of the results of immunological assessments at baseline and subsequent timepoints.

Ethics and dissemination

The trial protocol was approved by the research ethics committee of the National Health Service (reference 22/HRA/0359), Health Research Authority and Health and Care Research Wales on 25 July 2022. Findings will be disseminated through peer-reviewed journals and presented at scientific conferences.

Trial registration number

NCT53507177
.
DepRescribing inapprOpriate Proton Pump InhibiTors (DROPIT): study protocol of a cluster-randomised controlled trial in Swiss primary care
Authors: Schulthess-Lisibach Angela Edith , Lüthold Renata Vidonscky , Tombez Clémentine , Weir Kristie Rebecca , Zangger Martina , Chan Samantha , Jenal Flurina , Roumet Marie , Mattmann Yvonne , Bieri Christof , Aubert Carole Elodie , Rodondi Nicolas , Zambrano Ramos Sofia Carolina , Trelle Sven , Neuner-Jehle Stefan , Juillerat Pascal , Barbier Michaela , Inauen Jennifer , Streit Sven , Jungo Katharina Tabea , Vallejo-Yagüe Enriqueta
Published: January 2025

Objectives

Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are widely prescribed medications and commonly used for the treatment of gastric acid-related disorders. Nevertheless, PPIs are often overused leading to potential adverse effects and unnecessary healthcare costs. Deprescribing strategies have emerged to safely reduce or substitute inappropriate PPIs and optimise patient care in an evidence-based manner. This protocol describes a study to evaluate the effectiveness of a PPI deprescribing intervention in comparison to usual care in the Swiss primary care setting.

Design

An open-label, cluster randomised controlled trial.

Setting

Swiss primary care settings.

Participants

Included participants will be adults with inappropriate PPI treatment and will be recruited by general practitioners (GPs). Participants treated by the same GP constitute a cluster. Clusters are randomised 1:1 to either the intervention group or the control group.

Interventions

The intervention components consist of deprescribing tools including educational material, decision aids for both participants and GPs, and additional trainings for GPs only. Patients in the control group will receive usual care. Data will be collected at baseline, 3-, 6-, 9- and 12-month follow-up time through online surveys or a phone call for both GPs and participants.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

The first co-primary endpoint is the effectiveness of the deprescribing intervention measured by the change of prescribed PPI dose. The second co-primary endpoint is safety, which is measured with the Reflux Disease Questionnaire assessing change in gastrointestinal symptoms. There are several secondary endpoints, such as the total number of prescribed medications, occurrences of changes in prescription patterns, PPI discontinuation and cost-effectiveness.

Conclusions

The findings from this study will provide evidence on the effectiveness and safety of a PPI deprescribing intervention for patients and GPs. Successful implementation of our PPI deprescribing strategy has the potential to improve patient outcomes and lower costs.

Trial registration number

NCT06129474
.