bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of Performance of Thermoelectric Generator Using Ethylene Glycol as a Heat Exchanger
Authors: Tan Nguyen Tien , Dien Vu Minh , Binh Pham Hoa , Quang Khong Vu , Vinh Nguyen Duy
Published: February 2025

This research examines the impact of heat exchanger solvents on the power-generating performance of a thermoelectric generator (TEG). The experimental configuration includes TEG modules and a heat exchange system utilizing water and ethylene glycol as solvents for comparative analysis. The temperature and mass flow of the heat exchanger solution were modified to assess the performance parameters. According to ly, the power of the TEG using ethylene glycol is smaller than that using water due to the difference in the heat exchange coefficient. Indeed, the freshwater heat capacity is 4.19 kJ/(kg oC), while the heat capacity of ethylene glycol is only 2.36 kJ/(kg oC). The findings indicated that the performance of the TEG is contingent upon the kinds of heat exchanger solvents and the intake temperature. The proposed experimental configuration is applicable for assessing thermoelectric energy potential or examining optimal cooling or heating procedures.
Modeling of hydrogen-enriched natural gas on flame speed propagation
Authors: Zvada Branislav , Nosek Radovan , Patsch Marek , Pilát Peter , Backa Alexander
Published: February 2025

This study investigates the effects of hydrogen addition on the laminar flame speed of natural gas using computational simulations performed with Cantera. The calculated laminar flame speed of hydrogen-enriched natural gas mixtures was simulated across a range of equivalence ratios (0.6-2) and hydrogen fractions (0-25% by volume). The modified GRI-Mech 3.0 mechanism was employed. Results demonstrate a significant increase in laminar flame speed with increasing hydrogen content, with the effect more pronounced at higher equivalence ratios. The peak flame speed was observed in stoichiometric conditions with increasing hydrogen fraction. The highest speed is achieved with a 25% hydrogen concentration in a natural gas mixture, reaching 45.219 cm/s at an equivalence ratio of 0.9. This study provides insights into the combustion characteristics of hydrogen-enriched natural gas and demonstrates the utility of Cantera for such simulations.
Evaluation of the Effectiveness of Cooling Channel Parameters on Thermal Performance for Electric Vehicles Using Cylindrical Lithium-Ion Batteries
Authors: Pham Minhhieu , Tuan Do Van , Kien Nguyen Trung , Hung Chu Duc , Long Le Duy
Published: February 2025

Electric vehicles are gradually replacing traditional cars because of their superiority in not emitting exhaust gases into the environment during operation. The most essential and heat-sensitive part of an EV is the battery. It is therefore essential to construct a temperature control mechanism for the battery module. This study employs a liquid cooling system for the research of lithium-ion battery modules. The simulation investigates how variations in the cooling channel’s width, height, and inflow velocity impact the thermal performance of a 24-cell battery configuration with surrounding cooling channels. The cooling channel’s maximum temperature and temperature differential are maintained below 302 K and 5 K when the inflow velocity is greater than 0.15 m/s. The channel diameter is 3 mm, which optimizes space utilization while ensuring optimal cooling. Furthermore, a channel height of 62 mm provides consistent cooling across all areas of the cell. With the increase of the inlet velocity, channel width, and height, the heat dissipation performance of the battery module has improved quite a lot, but the impact on pump consumption has not been considered.
Development and Evaluation of Modified Asphalt Filtrate Loss Reducer in Oil-Based Drilling Fluids for Ultra-Deep Well
Authors: Fan Yu , Huang Weian , Liu Yang , Zhang Ying , Zhao Yunhai
Published: February 2025

To address the insufficient temperature resistance of key additives in oil-based drilling fluids, a high-temperature resistant modified oxidized asphalt filtrate reducer was prepared using asphalt as the main raw material. The structure of the modified product was characterized by FTIR and SEM. The filtrate reduction effect of the modified asphalt was evaluated under different dosages and temperatures. The results showed that with an increase in modified asphalt dosage, the HTHP filtrate loss decreased from 5.6 mL to 2.7 mL. Although the HTHP filtrate loss increased from 3.8 mL to 5.6 mL with an increasing temperature at the same concentration, the growth rate under high-temperature conditions was only 12%, demonstrating excellent filtrate loss reduction performance.
Assessment of global land cover changes using satellite data: intermittent and long-term land cover changes from 2001 to 2020
Authors: Chen Shuo , Zhuang Qianlai , Taheripour Farzad , Yuan Ye , Benavidez Lauren
Published: February 2025

Global land cover has changed during the past decades, influencing biogeochemical cycles and the global climate system. This study aimed to improve understanding of global land cover dynamics to enable more effective future land management practices and conservation actions. This study quantified interannual changes in global land cover types from 2001 to 2020 and distinguished intermittent transitions from stable gains and losses. From the interannual perspective, we found that global barren lands, forests, shrublands, and snow-covered areas decreased by 5281, 1804, 952, and 188 kha yr−1, respectively. In contrast, grasslands, croplands, urban areas, and water bodies increased at 6529, 1407, 237, and 51 kha yr−1, respectively, from 2001 to 2020. According to the definitions provided in this paper, of the global forest areas, 75% was Stable (no change), 4% was Gain, 5% was Loss, and 16% was Unstable. Of the cropland areas, 56% was Stable, 9% was Gain, 9% was Loss, and 26% was Unstable. Hotspots for forest loss were Brazil, the Rest of South America, and Sub-Saharan Africa, and grassland was the most common land cover classification following forest loss. The global cropland expansion hotspots were Brazil, Canada, China, India, and the Rest of South America. The cropland gains were mainly converted from grasslands. On the other hand, barren areas in China and Middle Eastern and North Africa were changed to grasslands. A certain amount of shrublands were changed to forest in temperate regions. This paper provided land cover changes at a 500 m spatial resolution as a benchmark for future assessments. The findings showed that unstable pixels play an important role in determining the sources of uncertainty when assessing land cover changes using satellite data. Land cover assessments are sensitive to the time steps used for analysis and the definition of changes.
Virus incidence in Hawaiian heritage sweetpotato
Authors: Halpin-McCormick Anna , Silva Asoka , Sherrill Tamara , Corpuz Briette , Kambic Lukas , Lucas Stacy , Koko Jerry , Gordon Devon , Dunn Liloa , Kroessig Timothy , Walsh Seana , Walcher Hayley , Motomura-Wages Sharon , Ahmad Amjad A. , Gutierrez Rosemary , Shankle Mark , Suzuki Jon , Radovich Theodore , Kagawa-Viviani Aurora , Melzer Michael J. , Kantar Michael
Published: February 2025

In Hawaiʻi, sweetpotato cultivation is important for both commercial markets and the important role it held and continues to hold in Indigenous Hawaiian and present-day multicultural food systems. While Hawaiian heritage cultivars maintained in contemporary botanical collections include ancestral varieties from across the Hawaiian Islands, these have not been systematically evaluated for virus content. Collaborating with a local network, the ‘Uala Working Group, we obtained 117 sweetpotato accessions, including Hawaiian heritage cultivars, from the National Tropical Botanical Garden (NTBG, island of Kauaʻi), Maui Nui Botanical Garden (MNBG, island of Maui), Waimea Valley (WV), and Lyon Arboretum (Lyon, island of Oʻahu), and Amy Greenwell Ethnobotanical Garden (AGG, Hawaiʻi Island). Samples from each cultivar were tested for viral content via RT-PCR for eight sweetpotato viruses: sweetpotato virus G (SPVG), sweetpotato feathery mottle virus (SPFMV), sweetpotato virus 2 (SPV2), sweetpotato virus C (SPVC), sweetpotato leaf curl virus (SPLCV), sweetpotato pakakuy virus (SPPV), sweetpotato symptomless virus 1 (SPSMV-1) and sweetpotato chlorotic stunt virus (SPCSV). Seven of the eight sweetpotato viruses tested for were present, making this the first documented occurrence of these viruses in Hawaiʻi, with the exception SPVG (documented prior in 2008). High frequencies of virus were observed, with results confirming the presence of SPSMV-1 (92%), SPFMV (79%), SPPV (72%), SPVG (65%), SPV2 (44%) and SPLCV (26%) with SPVC showing the lowest frequency of occurrence at 10%. SPCSV was not observed in the sample set. The majority of heritage cultivars exhibited multiple infection combinations with double (11%), triple (23%), quadruple (31%), quintuple (25%), sextuple (4%) and septuple (0.8%) infections observed; less than 2.6% were virus free or hosted a single infection. Here we report the incidence of sweetpotato viruses and prevalent virus strains in Hawaiian heritage cultivars which has broad implications for conservation and cultivation of Hawaiian heritage sweetpotato across the Hawaiian Islands.
Teaching for Learning in Mind
Authors: Forneris Susan Gross , Patterson Barbara J.
Published: February 2025

AIM

The aim was to advance the development of a conceptual model derived from findings of a research study that articulated how nurse educators translate and transfer nursing knowledge into experiential teaching strategies.

BACKGROUND

Brain science teaching and learning is successful because the learning encounter is focused on guiding learners on how to use content. Educator preparation grounded in neuroscience strategies facilitates a shift from teaching in mind to learning in mind.

METHOD

Conceptual model development included blending evidence from research and principles from educational theory, resulting in the Nurse Educator Teaching for Learning in Mind model.

RESULTS

Preparing educators to teach requires a clear understanding of coming to the learning space with learning in mind. Creation of a safe learning space included communication, shared vulnerability, transparency, and intentionality.

CONCLUSION

This evidence-based conceptual model offers direction for next steps in operationalizing best educational practices in nurse educator preparation and development.
Cost of Illness of Pressure Injuries in the Inpatient Area of a Socio-Health Center in Spain
Authors: Ramos-Sánchez Antonio , Martínez-Beltrán María Jesús , Egea-Zerolo Blanca , Águila-Pollo María del Carmen , Arribas-Marín Juan M. , Fernández-Ayuso David , Ribeiro Ana S. F.
Published: February 2025

OBJECTIVE

To estimate the increase in length of stay and cost of illness of pressure injuries (PIs) in the inpatient area of a socio-health center.

METHODS

This was a retrospective cohort study that included a consecutive sampling of patients admitted to the inpatient programs of a socio-healthcare center between January 1, 2016, and December 31, 2018. Data were retrospectively extracted from patients’ electronic health records.

RESULTS

During the study period 4,062 patients were admitted to the different hospitalization programs. The patients’ mean age was 75.34 ± 13.69 years, and 51.2% of them were men. Of these, 1,421 patients had PIs, and 318 patients had to prolong their hospital stay due to PIs. These 318 patients were admitted 12,089 days longer (mean of 38.01 ± 41.49 days per patient) than patients without a PI, representing an expense of €1,381,006 (US $1,430,722). The cost of illness in the period under study was estimated at €1,922,049 (US $1,991,212). The average cost of PI treatment per patient was €1,352.60 ± €3,351.43 (US $1,401.29 ± $3,472.08), and the average cost of treatment until complete resolution of a PI was €2,064.65 ± €4,282.48 (US $1,470.79 ± $4,436.65). The cost of treatment ranged from €1,419.68 ± €3,100.47 (US $2,138.98 ± $3,212.09) for stage 1 PIs to €6,299.31 ± €10,000.57 (US $6,526.08 ± $10,360.59) for stage 4 PIs.

CONCLUSIONS

This study highlights the significant health and economic impacts of PIs in the inpatient area of a socio-health center. The findings emphasize the necessity of effective prevention strategies to mitigate the occurrence of PIs and their associated costs. By understanding the financial burden of PIs, healthcare providers and policymakers can make informed decisions to improve resource allocation, enhance patient care, and reduce financial strain on the healthcare system.
The True Cost of Late Presentation in Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis: A 5-Year Follow-up Study
Authors: Nadler Emma B. , Kim Dorothy J. , Lebel David E. , Dermott Jennifer A.
Published: February 2025

Background:

Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) is the most prevalent pediatric spinal condition. During growth, moderate scoliosis is treated with a brace to minimize the risk of progression to the surgical range. However, a minority of patients meet brace indications, with a greater number presenting late, already appropriate for surgery. This study determines the treatment cost differential between brace candidates and late-presenting patients within a public health care setting.

Methods:

This is a retrospective review of 373 consecutive AIS patients seen for initial consultation in 2014 and followed for 5 years, with a cost-analysis of the 166 patients that either met brace indications (n=63) or presented late (n=103). Patients meeting the Scoliosis Research Society’s brace indications presented with a coronal curve magnitude between 25 and 40 degrees inclusive and were skeletally immature with a Risser ≤2. Late-presenting patients had coronal curve magnitudes of ≥50 degrees (n=73) or were presented with coronal curve magnitudes of >40 degrees and were skeletally immature with Risser ≤2 (n=30). Total treatment cost was estimated for 3 scenarios: (1) use of predetermined cut points for treatment prescription, (2) real-world approximation reflecting actual, nuanced clinical decision-making, and (3) the ideal situation, such that all late patients were instead seen as brace candidates.

Results:

Each patient who was prescribed a brace and avoided progression to the surgical range saved $23,000 in treatment costs. Eliminating late presentation of AIS would save at least $2 to $3 million per year at a single institution.

Conclusion:

Significant cost savings can be found by optimizing the number of patients treated with a brace and minimizing the number of patients that present late as likely surgical candidates. This study provides financial impetus for early AIS detection, decreasing the number of avoidable surgeries. Scoliosis screening recommendations in primary care should be re-examined, alongside the development of educational tools, equipping primary care providers, and youth and their caregivers with appropriate knowledge on how to identify AIS.

Level of Evidence:

Level III—retrospective comparative study.
Epidemiology of lateral and medial epicondylitis in South Korea: A nationwide population-based study
Authors: Lee Bong Gun , Lee Young Seok , Lee Chang-Hun , Choi Wan-Sun , Baek Seung Hun , Jo Young-Hoon
Published: February 2025

Few studies have reported the epidemiology of lateral epicondylitis (LE) and medial epicondylitis (ME) in nationwide databases. This study aimed to investigate the epidemiology of LE and ME in South Korea. We analyzed data from the nationwide database of the Korean Health Insurance Review and Assessment Service from 2013 to 2017. We investigated the incidence, prevalence, and surgical trends in patients with LE or ME. Between 2013 and 2017, we identified 2813,431 and 836,610 patients with LE and ME, respectively. LE and ME were more frequently diagnosed in women than in men. During the study period, the mean annual age-adjusted incidence rates of LE and ME were 9.7 per 1000 people and 2.9 per 1000 people, respectively. The incidence of LE did not change significantly during the study period, but the prevalence rate increased significantly. Conversely, the incidence and prevalence rates of ME have significantly increased. Furthermore, 0.8% and 1.0% of patients with LE and ME, respectively, required surgical treatment, showing an annual increase in the number of surgical treatments for LE and ME, respectively. The proportion of arthroscopic surgeries performed for LE did not significantly change during the study period. The prevalence of LE and ME has increased in South Korea. Consequently, the number of surgeries performed annually for LE and ME has increased.
Correction of upper eyelid retraction following ptosis surgery using Hering’s law: A case report
Authors: Pang Runhui , Liu Zhaochuan , Wang Huixing , Wang Juan , Shi Junhu , Xiao Li , Bai Ping
Published: February 2025

Rationale:

Blepharoptosis is a common disorder characterized by abnormal eyelid position that affects both visual function and esthetics. Postoperative upper eyelid retraction, which is often due to overcorrection, is a major problem. Under normal circumstances, the operation is usually performed on the overcorrected eye. Here, we present the case of a patient who had previously undergone surgery to correct right upper blepharoplasty, which resulted in asymmetry. Utilizing Hering’s law, we decided to correct only the left eye, resulting in remarkable bilateral symmetry after surgery. This proves that for patients with ptosis after upper eyelid surgery, a comprehensive approach should be considered rather than just one treatment method.

Patient concerns:

Here, we report a case of overcorrection of ptosis in a male patient who underwent corrective surgery.

Diagnoses:

Based on the patient’s ocular examination, appearance, medical history, measurement of levator muscle strength, and MRD1 measurement, the diagnosis was postoperative overcorrection of ptosis of the right upper eyelid.

Interventions:

In this case, preoperative examination revealed a reduction in the size of the right eye when the left eyelid was lifted, which was in accordance with Hering’s law. Consequently, surgical intervention was limited to the left eye, resulting in excellent bilateral symmetry after surgery.

Outcomes:

The surgery was successful and resulted in symmetry between both eyes. We followed up with the patient for a year and he was extremely satisfied with the surgical results. The outpatient follow-up revealed no discomfort.

Lessons:

Postoperative upper eyelid retraction following monocular ptosis correction is a rare condition. The conventional treatment approach typically involves reoperation on the affected eye. However, considering the importance of Hering’s law in the management of ptosis, excellent outcomes were achieved in this case through surgery on the contralateral, unaffected eye. When treating a patient, the operation should be tailored to their specific condition.
The role of thiol/disulfide homeostasis in unexplained primary infertile patients: A prospective cohort study
Authors: Aksin Şerif , Yilmaz Mehmet
Published: February 2025

Background:

Our study aims to investigate whether there is a relationship by measuring the total oxidant/antioxidant load with the thiol/disulfide method in patients with unexplained infertility.

Methods:

A total of 82 participants were enrolled, consisting of 41 women with unexplained infertility and 41 fertile controls matched for age and body mass index (BMI). Hormonal profiles, including follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), estradiol (E2), thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), and prolactin, were assessed using the chemiluminescence immunoassay method. Thiol/disulfide homeostasis was evaluated using a validated automated spectrophotometric method, which measured native thiol (NT), total thiol (TT), and disulfide levels. Detailed quality control measures ensured the reliability of the results.

Results:

In the study, no significant difference was found between the infertile and fertile groups’ demographic (age) and clinical variables in terms of height, weight, BMI, FSH, LH, E2, TSH, prolactin, antral follicle count, TT, NT, and disulfide values (P > .05). The rates were found to be greater in the infertile group in disulfide/NT ratio and disulfide/TT ratio compared to the fertile group, even though there was no statistically significant difference between the groups’ disulfide/NT ratio, disulfide/TT ratio, and NT/TT ratio values. The fertile group, however, had a higher NT/TT ratio rate.

Conclusion:

Although the unexplained infertility and fertile groups in the study did not differ in serum thiol and disulfide levels, the infertile group was found to have a relatively high disulfide/thiol ratio. More prospective studies on thiol/disulfide balance related to unexplained infertility may help to understand the relationship.
Development and validation of the Physician’s Health Literacy Competence Scale: A step towards effective doctor–patient communication
Authors: Chang Chia-Chen , Tseng Pei-Ling , Liu Chun-Cheng , Ming Jin-Lain , Fan Su-Hao , Tung Chen-Yin
Published: February 2025

This study aimed to develop a physician’s Health Literacy Competence Scale that emphasizes the importance of enhancing patient health literacy for effective patient-centered care. A literature review of health literacy and existing measurement tools was conducted to develop the scale’s structure and items. The scale was refined through a cross-sectional design in 2 stages: item testing and examination of reliability and validity. Exploratory factor analysis was conducted on the pilot test results of 127 medical students. Items with cross and low factor loadings were deleted, resulting in the retention of 25 items. Subsequently, 203 medical students were recruited as samples for confirmatory factor analysis. Items with excessively large modification indices were excluded from analysis. Finally, 20 items were retained, comprising 4 factors: building doctor–patient trust, providing a supportive environment, shared decision-making, and verifying medication adherence. Analysis of content, internal consistency, and construct validity confirmed the strong reliability and validity of the Physician’s Health Literacy Competence Scale. This effective tool serves curriculum development and assessment in medical education while also offering valuable insights into potential reforms in related courses.
The efficacy of Air Alert plyometric training program on enhancing biomotor skills in adolescent basketball players
Authors: Yalçin Onur , Açak Mahmut , Kurtoğlu Ahmet , Eken Özgür , Bayer Ramazan , Aldhahi Monira I.
Published: February 2025

Background:

Basketball is an important sport that utilizes a variety of biomotor skills. Diverse training programs are employed to enhance the biomotor attributes and elevate the performance levels of basketball players. Plyometric training (PT) is frequently used to improve athlete performance. However, different models of PT can yield varying effects on athletic performance.

Methods:

This study aimed to determine the impact of a PT program named “Air Alert” on athletes’ biomotor skills. Twenty-four basketball players aged 15 to 16 years voluntarily participated in the study. The participants were randomly assigned to 2 groups: the Air Alert plyometric training group (AIR) (n = 12) and the plyometric training group (n = 12). The AIR was trained 3 days a week, while the plyometric training group was trained 2 days a week for 15 weeks. Pre- and posttest measurements of height (cm), body weight (kg), vertical jump, line agility, 20 m sprint, Illinois agility, repeated sprint, and flamingo balance tests were performed for all participants.

Results:

There were no significant differences in height (cm) (F = 1.035, P = .320, ηp2 = .045), weight (F = 1.735, P = .201, ηp2 = .073), and BMI measurements (F = 1.376, P = .253, ηp2 = .059) within and between groups. However, significant differences were observed between the groups in vertical jump (F = 14.343, P = .001, ηp2 = .395), line agility (F = 75.366, P = .000, ηp2 = .774), 20 m sprint (F = 93.001, P = .000, ηp2 = .809), balance (F = 59.513, P = .000, ηp2 = .730), Illinois agility test (F = 143.243, P = .000, ηp2 = .867), and repeated sprint test (F = 140.986, P = .000, ηp2 = .865).

Conclusion:

The results of this study indicate that the AIR program is more effective in enhancing the biomotor skills of basketball players than other plyometric training programs. Based on these results, it is recommended that coaches who aim to develop training strategies to enhance athletic performance should consider incorporating an Air Alert program.
Association between the degree of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and nocturnal hypertension
Authors: Astan Ramazan , Kacmaz Fehmi , Saricam Ersin , OZYER Esref Umut , Ilkay Erdogan
Published: February 2025

Nighttime blood pressure (BP) decreases have prognostic significance owing to circadian patterns. The prevalence of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has rapidly increased in recent years. We aimed to investigate circadian blood pressure changes in patients with NAFLD. The present study included 114 patients diagnosed with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and no previous hypertension diagnosis. Thirty patients comprised the control group (no hepatosteatosis and no hypertension). The patients were divided into 3 groups based on nocturnal BP dipping. Blood pressure patterns using night–day ratios were classified as dipper (ratio ≤ 0, 9), nondipper (0, 9 < ratio ≤ 1, 0), or nocturnal hypertension (ratio > 1, 0). There were no significant differences in sex, age, presence of diabetes, or biochemical test results between the groups. According to the blood pressure pattern, the nondipper rate in the hepatosteatosis group was significantly higher than that in the control group. Patients were compared in terms of the presence and severity of hepatosteatosis according to night blood pressure patterns. A significant difference was observed between the groups (P < .001 and P = .001, respectively). We found an association between hepatosteatosis severity and night blood pressure patterns. Patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease have a higher incidence of nocturnal hypertension. We observed impaired circadian blood pressure changes in patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease.
Micro-fragmented adipose tissue—An innovative therapeutic approach: A narrative review
Authors: Fu Hongjuan , Wang Congcong
Published: February 2025

Subcutaneous adipose tissue provides distinct advantages as a source of mesenchymal stem cells due to its accessibility and the ease of isolating stem cells. Human adipose stem cells, located in the stromal-vascular fraction, can be harvested using mechanical methods to produce microfragmented adipose tissue (MFAT). Local injections of MFAT have shown potential in promoting natural tissue regeneration. This review introduces the concept of MFAT, highlights its clinical applications, and explores its potential in regenerative medicine, offering insights into its role as an innovative therapeutic approach.
Disputing and challenging academic procrastination behaviors in students using REBT approach
Authors: Amoke Chijioke Virgilus , Ede Moses Onyemaechi , Mawila-Chauke Daphney , Obeagu Ifeanyi Emmanuel
Published: February 2025

Background:

Procrastination consists of behavioral, emotional, and cognitive components. It is behavioral when someone frequently delays starting or finishing a task. The cognitive aspect of procrastination involves the difference between goals and behavior. Students often postpone completing tasks that they are required to finish, which negatively impacts their academic performance. The goal of rational emotive behavior therapy (REBT) is to address the dysfunctional behavioral, emotional, and cognitive components of procrastination. This study was conducted based on that premise.

Methods:

The study utilized a quasi-experimental design. A sample size of 128 students from secondary schools participated using the Gpower method and were assigned to 2 groups. Academic procrastination behaviors and irrational beliefs associated with these behaviors were assessed using procrastination and irrational beliefs scales. After an initial screening, a 12-session intervention program was implemented.

Results:

The study found that the REBT intervention significantly reduced participants’ academic procrastination behaviors. Furthermore, 3 months after the intervention, the participants’ academic procrastination remained significantly lower. Participants who received REBT had lower mean academic procrastination ratings posttreatment compared to the control group.

Conclusion:

These results indicate that rational emotive behavioral therapy effectively reduces procrastination in educational settings. Future research should focus on investigating the clinical significance of rational emotive behavioral therapy across different cultures using larger and more diverse populations. Additionally, future studies should examine the therapeutic benefits of rational emotive behavioral therapy across cultural boundaries.
Usefulness and Safety of Endoscopic Nasobiliary Drainage for Type 1 Autoimmune Pancreatitis
Authors: Ito Takashi , Ikeura Tsukasa , Nakamaru Koh , Masuda Masataka , Nakayama Shinji , Shimatani Masaaki , Uchida Kazushige , Takaoka Makoto , Okazaki Kazuichi , Naganuma Makoto
Published: February 2025

Objectives:

Autoimmune pancreatitis (AIP) is a pancreatic manifestation of IgG4-related disease which is complicated by extra-pancreatic lesions such as IgG4-related sclerosing cholangitis. The appropriate biliary drainage method and period for type 1 AIP remain unclear. Therefore, we aimed to clarify the usefulness and safety of endoscopic nasobiliary drainage (ENBD) for type 1 AIP in patients with jaundice.

Methods:

This study enrolled 83 patients with type 1 AIP who underwent steroid therapy who underwent evaluation of contrast material outflow to the jejunum using cholangiography. The ENBD was removed when the contrast material outflowed into the duodenum; an endoscopic biliary stenting (EBS) was performed if it did not outflow.

Results:

Cholangiography and pancreatography were achieved in 83 (100%) and 77 (93%) patients, respectively. Liver function parameters were significantly decreased after ENBD. Bile juice cytology using ENBD revealed no evidence of malignancy. Two (2%) patients developed mild pancreatitis following endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). Endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine-needle aspiration biopsy was performed in 56 (67%) patients. ENBD was removed in 75 (90%) patients; EBS was performed in 8 (10%). Multivariate regression analysis showed pancreatic focal enlargement (OR=12.06, 95% CI: 1.28–113.62, P=0.03) as an independent risk factor for EBS.

Conclusions:

Although ENBD causes discomfort and the risk of self-removal, it differentiates AIP from malignant tumors, evaluates steroid effects using real-time cholangiography, and reduces the number of required ERCP procedures. ENBD could be one of the drainage options for type 1 AIP, depending on patients’ background.
A randomized crossover trial: The impact of ocular lubrication on migraine severity in persons with dry eye disease and migraine
Authors: Md Isa Nur Amalina , Krishnan Arun V. , Zagami Alessandro S. , Tummanapalli Shyam S. , Spira Katherine , Papas Eric B. , Tavakoli Azadeh , Markoulli Maria
Published: February 2025

SIGNIFICANCE

Significant associations in the epidemiologic and clinical features between migraine and dry eye syndrome suggest that both conditions are comorbid. A potentially overlapping pathophysiological mechanism further indicates a connection between the two conditions. This study highlights the clinical implications of treating dry eye disease on migraine.

PURPOSE

This study aimed to investigate the impact on migraine severity of treating dry eye disease in migraine patients using ocular lubricants.

METHODS

A randomized, double-masked, crossover trial was conducted on 24 participants with both migraine and dry eye disease. They received either Systane Hydration UD (Alcon, Fort Worth, TX) or saline eye drops (NeilMed, Santa Rosa, CA) four times per day for 4 weeks each, with a 2-week washout period between treatments. Migraine severity was assessed using the Headache Impact Test 6 (HIT-6) and Migraine Disability Assessment questionnaires. Dry eye disease was evaluated using the Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI), Dry Eye Questionnaire 5 (DEQ-5), tear breakup time, tear osmolarity, and corneal surface integrity. Outcomes were assessed at baseline and after using the first and then second drops.

RESULTS

Ocular lubrication was significantly associated with reduced migraine severity and dry eye disease. The HIT-6 score was reduced from baseline when using Systane Hydration UD (mean change, ∆ = −3.0, p=0.01) and saline (∆ = −3.9, p=0.002). Dry eye disease symptoms and corneal staining were reduced when using Systane Hydration UD (OSDI ∆ = −8.3, p=0.004; DEQ-5 ∆ = −2.1, p=0.004; corneal staining ∆ = −2.2, p=0.001) and saline (OSDI ∆ = −6.4, p=0.03; DEQ-5 ∆ = −1.5, p=0.03; corneal staining ∆ = −1.5, p=0.005).

CONCLUSIONS

When migraine and dry eye disease coexist, successfully treating dry eye disease reduces the severity of migraine, as measured by HIT-6.
Pediatric Sepsis Phenotype in a Single-Center Cohort Covering 2010–2020: Evolution in Day 1–Day 3 Trajectory and Potential Prognostic Value
Authors: Aldewereld Zachary , Horvat Christopher , Clermont Gilles
Published: February 2025

Objectives:

To examine the utility of day 3 sepsis phenotype classifications compared with day 1 and whether these could be reliably identified using routine clinical data on day 1.

Design:

Retrospective cohort study of pediatric patients managed 2010–2014 and 2018–2020.

Setting:

Academic children’s hospital.

Patients:

One thousand eight hundred twenty-eight children (1 mo to 18 yr old) admitted to the PICU with suspected infection who received a minimum of 7 days of systemic antibiotics.

Interventions:

None.

Measurements and Main Results:

Subjects showed significant evolution of phenotype from day 1 to day 3, with 31.7–60.9% remaining the same type. Outcomes were worst in those classifying as type D on day 3, with mortality as high as 16.6% in those that were classified as type D on both days 1 and 3, as well as 11.3% in those initially classified as type C (a lower mortality type) on day 1 but type D on day 3. Accurate statistical prediction of day 3 types using multinomial logistic regression and random forest and day 1 data was poor, despite attempts to improve performance.

Conclusions:

In our retrospective cohort of patients with sepsis, we identified significant evolution in phenotype over the first 3 days of illness. Day 3 phenotypes may provide more accurate statistical prediction of outcomes, but identification of day 3 phenotypes using data available early in the course of illness is challenging. New methods will likely be required to improve performance in this area.
AggreBots: configuring CiliaBots through guided, modular tissue aggregation
Authors: Bhattaram Dhruv , Golestan Kian , Zhang Xuanshuo , Yang Shihong , Gong Zhuowei , Brody Steven L , Horani Amjad , Webster-Wood Victoria A , Farimani Amir Barati , Ren Xi
Published: February 2025

Ciliated biobots, or CiliaBots, are a class of engineered multicellular tissues that are capable of self-actuated motility propelled by the motile cilia located on their exterior surface. Correlations have been observed between CiliaBot motility patterns and their morphology and cilia distribution. However, precise control of these structural parameters to generate desired motility patterns predictably remains lacking. Here, we developed a novel Aggregated CiliaBot (AggreBot) platform capable of producing designer motility patterns through spatially controlled aggregation of epithelial spheroids made from human airway cells (referred to as CiliaBot Building Blocks or CBBs), yielding AggreBots with configurable geometry and distribution of active cilia. Guided multi-CBB aggregation led to the production of rod-, triangle-, and diamond-shaped AggreBots, which consistently effected greater motility than traditional single-spheroid CiliaBots. Furthermore, CBBs were found to maintain internal boundaries post-aggregation through the combined action of pathways controlling cellular fluidity and tissue polarity. This boundary fidelity, combined with the use of CBBs with immotile cilia due to mutations in the CCDC39 gene, allowed for the generation of hybrid AggreBots with precision control over the coverage and distribution of active cilia, further empowering control of motility patterns. Our results demonstrate the potential of AggreBots as self-propelling biological tissues through the establishment of morphological 'levers' by which alterations to tissue motility can be theoretically planned and experimentally verified.
Knowledge Discovery in Datasets of Proteomics by Systems Modeling in Translational Research on Pancreatic Cancer
Authors: Resell Mathilde , Graarud Elisabeth Pimpisa , Rabben Hanne-Line , Sharma Animesh , Hagen Lars , Hoang Linh , Skogaker Nan T , Svensson Magnus Kringstad , Amrutkar Manoj , Verbeke Caroline Sophie , Batra Surinder K , Qvigstad Gunnar , WANG TIMOTHY Cragin , Rustgi Anil K , Chen Duan , Zhao Chun-Mei
Published: February 2025

Knowledge discovery in databases (KDD) can contribute to translational research, also known as translational medicine, by bridging the gap between in vitro and in vivo studies and clinical applications. Here, we propose a 'systems modeling' workflow for KDD. This framework includes data collection of composition model (various research models) and processing model (proteomics) and analytical model (bioinformatics, artificial intelligence/machine leaning and pattern evaluation), knowledge presentation, and feedback loops for hypothesis generation and validation. We applied this workflow to study pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). Through this approach, we identified the common proteins between human PDAC and various research models in vitro (cells, spheroids and organoids) and in vivo (mouse mice). Accordingly, we hypothesized potential translational targets on hub proteins and the related signaling pathways, PDAC specific proteins and signature pathways, and high topological proteins. Thus, we suggest that this systems modeling workflow can be a valuable method for KDD, facilitating knowledge discovery in translational targets in general and in particular to PADA in this case.
Euclidean Distance based Adaptive Sampling Algorithm for Disassociating Transient and Oscillatory Components of Signals
Authors: Muhammed Safwan Mahmoud , Gandhi Neeraj J , Dallal Ahmed Hassan , bourrelly Clara
Published: February 2025

Neural signals encode information through oscillatory and transient components. The transient component captures rapid, non-rhythmic changes in response to internal or external events, while the oscillatory component reflects rhythmic patterns critical for processing sensation, action, and cognition. Current spectral and time-domain methods often struggle to distinguish the two components, particularly under sharp transitions, leading to interference and spectral leakage. This study introduces a novel adaptive smoothing algorithm that isolates oscillatory and transient components by dynamically up-sampling signal regions with abrupt changes. The approach leverages Euclidean distance-based thresholds to refine sampling and applies customized smoothing techniques, preserving transient details while minimizing interference. Tested on both synthetic and recorded local field potential data, the algorithm outperformed conventional methods in handling steep signal transitions, as demonstrated by lower mean-square error and improved spectral separation. Our findings highlight the algorithm's potential to enhance neural signal analysis by more accurately separating components, paving the way for more precise characterization of neural dynamics in research and clinical applications.
GFHunter enables accurate and efficient gene fusion detection in long-read cancer transcriptomes
Authors: Liu Yadong , Lu Zhenhao , Wang Yadong , Jiang Tao
Published: February 2025

The precise identification of gene fusions is crucial for cancer diagnosis and therapeutic decision-making. Long-read transcriptome sequencing provides distinct advantages over short-read technologies by capturing full-length fusion gene structures. However, fully harnessing long-read data for cancer research necessitates advanced computational approaches. In this study, we present GFHunter, a novel computational framework designed for efficient and accurate gene fusion detection. Benchmarking on both simulated and real long-read transcriptome datasets from non-tumor and cancer cell lines demonstrates that GFHunter accurately detects gene fusions with high sensitivity and significantly reduces false positives. Additionally, GFHunter runs 2-3 times faster and requires only 16%-50% of the memory compared to state-of-the-art tools. Notably, GFHunter uniquely identifies two known cancer-related fusions in HCT-116 and SKBR-3 cancer cell lines. These results highlight GFHunter's potential as a powerful tool for advancing precision oncology and molecular diagnostics.
Reversible and Causal Epigenetic Information Loss in Liver Aging and Disease
Authors: Shtark Roni B , Sagy Naor , Korenfeld Noga , Gal Maayan , Goldstein Ido Zvi , Bar Daniel Zvi
Published: February 2025

The loss of epigenetic information has been proposed as a driver of aging and diseases, but the reversibility and causality of this process remain underexplored. Here we analyze liver-unique methylation sites - genomic loci that show distinct methylation patterns in the liver compared to other tissues. Upon disease progression, these sites overwhelmingly regress toward the pan-tissue average. In addition, we demonstrate that this regression also occurs in a majority of these sites during normal aging. Using Mendelian randomization analysis, we identify significant enrichment of liver-unique methylation sites in causal aging-associated loci, particularly sites that are highly methylated in healthy liver. Remarkably, repeated fasting, a metabolic intervention known to improve liver function, partially restores the liver-unique methylation patterns at these sites. This restoration also occurs in isolated hepatocytes subjected to fasting-mimicking conditions, suggesting the effect is cell-autonomous rather than due to changes in tissue composition. The liver-unique methylation sites are enriched for binding sites of key metabolic transcription factors and show significant overlap with genetic variants associated with liver disease risk, suggesting a mechanistic link between epigenetic information loss and liver dysfunction. Our findings establish epigenetic information loss as both a marker and mediator of liver aging and disease, while demonstrating its potential reversibility through metabolic interventions.
Improved structural modelling of antibodies and their complexes with clustered diffusion ensembles
Authors: Giulini Marco , Xu Xiaotong , Bonvin Alexandre M.J.J.
Published: February 2025

Motivation: Gaining structural insights into antibody-antigen complexes is crucial for understanding antigen recognition mechanisms and advancing therapeutic antibody design. However, accurate prediction of the structure of highly variable complementarity-determining region 3 on the antibody heavy chain (CDR-H3 loop) remains a significant challenge due to its increased length and conformational variability. While AlphaFold2-multimer (AF2) has made substantial progress in protein structure prediction, its application on antibodies and antibody-antigen complexes is limited by the weak evolutionary signals in the CDR region and the lack of structural diversity in its output. Results: To address these limitations, we propose a workflow that combines AlphaFlow to generate ensembles of potential loop conformations with integrative modelling of antibody-antigen complexes with HADDOCK. Improving the structural diversity of the H3 loop increases the success rate of subsequent docking tasks. Our analysis shows that while AF2 generally predicts accurate antibody structures, it struggles with the H3 loop. In cases where AF2 mispredicts the loop, we leverage AlphaFlow to generate ensembles of loop conformations via diffusion-based sampling, followed by clustering to produce a structurally diverse set of models. We demonstrate that these ensembles significantly improve antibody-antigen docking performance compared to the standard AF2 ensembles. Availability and implementation: The input datasets and codes involved in this research are available at https://github.com/haddocking/alphaflow-antibodies. All the resulting modelling data are available from Zenodo (https://zenodo.org/records/14906314).
Impacts of climate change on the movement ecology of an imperfect homeotherm
Authors: Noonan Michael J , Alston Jesse M , Giroux Aline , Desbiez Arnaud L J
Published: February 2025

Rapid, human-induced climate change has posed significant challenges to wildlife. One key strategy animals use to cope with environmental temperature fluctuations is behavioral thermoregulation. Understanding how climate change is expected to influence animal behavior is crucial for assessing its impact on species survival and informing effective conservation efforts. Giant anteaters have been found to exhibit conspicuous behavioral responses to temperature changes. Despite their broad thermal neutral zone (15 - 36°C), climate projections indicate that this vulnerable mammal is increasingly likely to experience heat stress. We used GPS tracking and continuous-time analyses to investigate how environmental temperature influences the movement ecology of giant anteaters. We integrated our findings with climate change projections to link giant anteater's responses to present weather conditions with those expected under future climate scenarios. Giant anteaters' movement speed exhibited a negative quadratic response to temperature, peaking at 23.7°C. 95% of their movement occurred between 15.0 - 32.3°C, which aligns with their thermal neutral zone. The increasing temperature led giant anteaters to increase selection for native forests, but had no effect on selection for exotic tree plantations. This shows the importance of native forests as these thermal shelters help to mitigate the negative consequences of high temperatures on anteater's movement. However, the warmer temperatures predicted for Brazil throughout the rest of the 21st century indicate that giant anteaters may experience a reduction of up to 84% in their movement speed. This would hinder the acquisition of sufficient energy resources and threaten the species' persistence. We emphasize the need for conservation efforts that account for the impacts of climate change on species survival and stress the importance of preserving forests as essential refuges that help wildlife to cope with rising temperatures.