bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sex differences in effectiveness of CGRP receptor antagonism for treatment of acute and persistent headache-like pain in a mouse model of mild traumatic brain injury
Authors: Navratilova Edita , Kopruszinski Caroline M. , Oyarzo Janice , Barber Kara R. , Anderson Trent , Dodick David W. , Schwedt Todd J. , Porreca Frank
Published: February 2025

Background

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) commonly elicits acute (APTH) and/or persistent (PPTH) post-traumatic headache. Calcitonin gene related peptide (CGRP) has been implicated as a contributor to PTH pathophysiology. We explored the possibility of sexual dimorphism in the effects of CGRP receptor (CGRP-R) blockade in a preclinical model of PTH induced by a mild TBI (mTBI) in male or female mice.

Methods

Mice were lightly anesthetized and placed on a tissue paper stage prior to receiving a sham procedure or mTBI resulting from a closed-head weight drop injury. Behavioral responses to periorbital and hindpaw tactile (von Frey filaments) or thermal (hot plate) stimuli over the first 14 days post-mTBI were evaluated as measures of APTH. The PPTH phase was studied following the resolution of mTBI-induced APTH at days 14 and 28. PPTH was precipitated by exposure to bright lights (i.e., bright light stress, BLS). Olcegepant was delivered subcutaneously either repeatedly beginning 2 h after mTBI to produce a sustained block of CGRP-R signaling across the APTH phase, or as a single administration on days 14 or 28 post-mTBI to evaluate possible effects during the PPTH phase.

Results

mTBI, but not sham-procedure, produced periorbital and hindpaw tactile allodynia, as well as thermal hypersensitivity in mice of both sexes. APTH-related hypersensitivity was transient and resolved by day 14 post-injury. No sex differences were observed in the magnitude or duration of APTH-related pain behaviors. Sustained CGRP-R blockade was, however, significantly more effective in female than male mice in inhibiting pain behaviors in the APTH phase and in preventing the emergence of BLS-induced PPTH. CGRP-R blockade following the resolution of mTBI-induced APTH pain behaviors, on either day 14 or 28, minimally altered BLS-induced PPTH in either sex.

Conclusions

Sustained CGRP-R blockade starting soon after mTBI significantly inhibited APTH and prevented the expression of PPTH with greater analgesic effects in females compared to males. Delayed CGRP-R blockade beginning after resolution of APTH phase was minimally effective in preventing expression of PPTH in either sex. These data are consistent with previous observations that CGRP induces pain behaviors preferentially in females. Early and continuous CGRP blockade following mTBI may represent a viable treatment option for PTH treatment and the prevention of PTH persistence, especially in females.
Mesenchymal Stem Cell Exosome and Fibrin Sealant Composite Enhances Rabbit Anterior Cruciate Ligament Repair
Authors: Wong Keng Lin , Teo Kristeen Ye Wen , Law Gin Way , Zhang Shipin , Wang Tianqi , Afizah Hassan , Pua Chee Jian , Tan Barry Wei Loong , Hui James Hoi Po , Toh Wei Seong
Published: February 2025

Background:

The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) fails to heal after rupture, leading to joint instability and an increased risk of osteoarthritis. Mesenchymal stem/stromal cell (MSC) exosomes have reported wide-ranging therapeutic efficacy; however, their potential for augmenting ACL repair remains to be investigated.

Purpose:

To evaluate the use of MSC exosomes with fibrin sealant on biological augmentation of ACL healing after suture repair and their effects on ACL fibroblast functions.

Study Design:

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods:

Twelve rabbit knees underwent ACL transection and suture repair. MSC exosome and fibrin composite (Exosome+Fibrin) or fibrin (Fibrin) alone was used to supplement the suture repair in 6 knees. ACL repair was assessed by magnetic resonance imaging at 6 and 12 weeks postoperatively and by histologic and immunohistochemical analyses at 12 weeks. To investigate the mechanisms through which MSC exosomes augment ACL repair, metabolic activity, proliferation, migration, and matrix synthesis assays were performed using the primary ACL fibroblasts. RNA sequencing was also performed to assess global gene expression changes in exosome-treated ACL fibroblasts.

Results:

Based on magnetic resonance imaging findings, 5 of 6 Exosome+Fibrin–treated ACLs were completely or partially healed, as opposed to 5 of 6 Fibrin-treated ACLs appearing torn at 6 and 12 weeks postoperatively. Additionally, 4 of 6 Exosome+Fibrin–treated ACLs were isointense, as compared with 5 of 6 Fibrin-treated ACLs that were hyperintense, indicating improved remodeling and maturation of the repaired ACLs with Exosome+Fibrin treatment. Histologically, Exosome+Fibrin–treated ACLs showed more organized collagen fibers and abundant collagen deposition, with a high amount of collagen I and relatively lower amount of collagen III, which are consistent with the matrix structure and composition of the normal ACL. Cell culture studies using ACL fibroblasts showed that MSC exosomes enhanced proliferation, migration, and collagen synthesis and deposition, which are cellular processes relevant to ACL repair. Further gene set enrichment analysis revealed key pathways mediated by MSC exosomes in enhancing proliferation and migration while reducing matrix degradation of ACL fibroblasts.

Conclusion:

The combination of MSC exosomes and fibrin sealant (Exosome+Fibrin) applied to a suture repair enhanced the morphologic and histologic properties of the ACL in a rabbit model, and these improvements could be attributed to the augmented functions of ACL fibroblasts with exosome treatment.

Clinical Relevance:

This work supports the use of MSC exosomes in biological augmentation of ACL healing after suture repair.
Analyzing the Association of the Area Deprivation Index on Patient-Reported Outcomes in Patients Undergoing Hip Arthroscopy
Authors: Cruse Jordan J. , Shaikh Hashim J.F. , Brodell James D. , Botros Mina , Daley-Lindo Terrence S. , Kenney Raymond J. , Giordano Brian D.
Published: February 2025

Background:

Hip arthroscopy is a valuable tool through which intra- and extra-articular hip pathologies may be addressed, with the goal of improving pain and function while preventing osteoarthritis progression. Little data are available regarding the effect of social determinants of health on hip arthroscopy outcomes.

Purpose:

To determine if a patient’s lived environment is associated with better or worse postoperative outcomes using the area deprivation index (ADI).

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

Patients undergoing hip arthroscopy between January 1, 2015, and June 30, 2022, at a single institution were identified using Current Procedural Terminology codes. Patients’ zip codes were utilized to identify ADI measures. Patients were divided into quartiles of ADI, and the most deprived (ADIHigh) and least deprived (ADILow) quartiles were compared. Pre- and postoperative Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) scores for the Pain Interference (PI), Physical Function (PF), and Depression domains were obtained. For the PF and PI domains, the minimal clinically important difference (MCID) was defined using an anchor-based approach using previously established cutoffs. For the Depression domain, the MCID was defined using a distribution-based approach and calculated as one-half of the standard deviation of the preoperative PROMIS score. Multivariable logistic regression models were estimated to characterize the association of the ADI with MCID attainment along PROMIS domains.

Results:

A total of 170 patients were included in the analysis of the ADIHigh (n = 85) and ADILow (n = 85) cohorts. Age, body mass index, smoking status, and race did not significantly vary between groups. No significant differences in MCID attainment were observed at any time point in the PF, PI, or Depression domains. However, the ADIHigh cohort had higher mean PI (worse) scores compared with the ADILow cohort at the preoperative, 1-year, and final follow-up (mean, 2.52 years) time points. In multivariable logistic regression analyses, ADI was not associated with the odds of MCID attainment.

Conclusion:

For patients undergoing hip arthroscopy, increased social disadvantage measured by the ADI was not associated with the odds of MCID attainment in any PROMIS domain. This information provides guidance for care providers, researchers, and policymakers to seek and identify other mechanisms that may affect outcomes after hip arthroscopy.
Alcohol dehydrogenase iron containing 1 (ADHFE1) is associated with liver metastasis and regulates cellular function of gastric cancer
Authors: Qin Ling , Liu Fei , Sun Chen , Zhang Zhang , Sun Lingling , Tang Xingli , Xia Yunhong
Published: February 2025

Background

Liver metastasis and chemotherapy resistance are two unfavorable factors for the outcomes of gastric cancer patients. ADHFE1 was identified as cancer-related molecule and candidate for early detection in gastric cancer. This study evaluated the significance of ADHFE1 in gastric cancer, aiming to explore a potential biomarker and therapeutic target for gastric cancer.

Methods

The expression of ADHFE1 was detected by polymerase chain reaction and compared between 143 gastric cancer patients and 54 individuals with benign lesions. The role of ADHFE1 in gastric cancer development and prognosis was assessed. The effect of ADHFE1 on gastric cancer cell growth and motility was evaluated by cell counting kit-8 and Transwell assay. The angiogenesis and cisplatin resistance were assessed by related markers and the half maximal inhibitory concentration values.

Results

Significant upregulation of ADHFE1 was observed in gastric cancer patients compared to individuals with benign lesions, which showed close association with the tumor node metastasis stage, lymph node metastasis, liver metastasis, and adverse prognosis of gastric cancer patients. Patients with liver metastasis showed higher serum ADHFE1 levels, which decreased after chemotherapy. Silencing ADHFE1 significantly suppressed gastric cancer cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and angiogenesis while its overexpression showed opposite effects. Moreover, the overexpression of ADHFE1 significantly improved the cisplatin resistance of gastric cancer cells.

Conclusion

Serum ADHFE1 served as an indicator for poor prognosis and liver metastasis of gastric cancer. ADHFE1 regulates gastric cancer cell progression, cisplatin resistance, and angiogenesis, suggesting its potential to serve as a therapeutic target.
Prediction of mechanical properties of glass-epoxy composites using supervised learning
Authors: Baishya Ronit R , Case Scott W
Published: February 2025

Traditional testing methods for evaluating the mechanical properties of composite laminates, such as Interlaminar Shear Strength (ILSS) and In-Plane Shear Strength, are known to be resource intensive, time consuming, and expensive. This often leads to setbacks and failures in the development process. In this study, the development of a predictive model was proposed to estimate these key mechanical properties based on specific test measurements and dimensions. The glass-epoxy family of composites has been mainly focused on because it is widely used in various industries. To explore the feasibility of this approach, supervised machine learning techniques were employed, which offer an efficient means of creating predictive models based on test characteristics. The selected tests for consideration include the Short Beam Strength Test (SBS Test) and Iosipescu or V-notch test for ILSS and in-plane shear strength, respectively. The performance of different machine learning algorithms such as decision tree, multiple linear regression, ridge regression, and artificial neural networks was evaluated to identify the most suitable model for the dataset. Given the limited availability of data, the study emphasizes the importance of achieving good performance even with small datasets. The findings from this research hold promise for streamlining the testing process and improving the efficiency of composite material development. The study highlights the effectiveness of the decision tree model in predicting mechanical properties of glass-epoxy composites, particularly for small datasets with nonlinear relationships. It shows that the decision tree outperforms other models, including multiple linear regression and ridge regression, in capturing complex patterns. The analysis also identifies key influential factors, such as the span-to-depth ratio for interlaminar shear strength and specimen thickness for in-plane shear strength, providing valuable insights for future composite material design and testing. The novelty of this study lies in its emphasis on feature importance analysis to predict the mechanical properties of glass-epoxy composites. By examining how specimen dimensions influence Interlaminar Shear Strength and In-Plane Shear Strength, the work provides valuable insights into the key factors affecting composite behavior. This approach not only highlights the most significant dimensions but also offers a practical method for predicting composite properties using limited datasets, paving the way for optimized material design and future research in composite material prediction.
Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca Due to Blepharoplasty Treated With Neurotoxin and Hyaluronic Acid Filler
Authors: Meihofer Allison , Foy Valerie , Zambrano DiFiore Regina , Rozenberg Suzanne Sirota
Published: February 2025

Blepharoplasty is a common procedure for addressing eyelid laxity, thus enhancing functional and aesthetic eye concerns. This case report discusses a novel, minimally invasive treatment approach for severe dry eye resulting from lower eyelid blepharoplasty in a 57-year-old female. The patient experienced significant ocular discomfort 1-year post-surgery due to excessive skin removal, leading to ectropion and keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS) unresponsive to traditional therapies. Despite multiple attempts with conventional treatments, symptom relief remained minimal and significantly impacting the patient’s quality of life. A combined intervention using 28 units of prabotulinumtoxinA-xvfs and one syringe of hyaluronic acid filler alleviated symptoms by elevating the lower eyelid and restoring comfort. The treatment underscores the potential of combining neurotoxin and dermal filler as an alternative to surgical correction for post-blepharoplasty complications. In addition, this report highlights the importance of further research to determine specific treatment dosages and protocols when managing complex cases of eyelid retraction and dry eye syndrome.
A Practical Guide to Biostatistics Used in the Journal of Intensive Care Medicine
Authors: Kar Emma , Murata Asahi , Irwin Chase , vanSonnenberg Eric
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Biostatistics is an increasing focus in both the United States Medical Licensing exams (USMLE) and medical school curricula. Nonetheless, literature has documented that it is poorly understood among both practicing physicians and physician trainees. Our purpose is to narrow this knowledge gap by offering readers a “how-to” guide that both supplements essential biostatistics knowledge and assists in constructing research projects.

Methods

In Part II of our tandem manuscripts, we expand our Part I biostatistics analysis of research articles in the Journal of Intensive Care Medicine (JICM) with explanations and practical use of biostatistics, addressing the most common statistical terms and tests used in the JICM.

Results

Understanding biostatistics requires interpreting the type of study, type of data collected, statistical tests available for all types of data, and results of the statistical tests.

Conclusion

Gaining proficiency in biostatistics will improve the precision of evidence-based medical outcomes, helping close the current knowledge gap among practicing physicians and trainees.
The French duty of vigilance law: A reference guide for the transposition of the corporate sustainability due diligence directive
Authors: Kilimcioğlu Begüm
Published: February 2025

In 2017, France became the first European Union Member State to adopt a duty of vigilance law (loi relative au devoir de vigilance des sociétés mères et des entreprises donneuses d'ordre) to address corporate human rights violations, with an extraterritorial effect. The Law was first of its kind and it was welcomed with much hope and excitement. However, although the Law carried great potential, the effective implementation and enforcement of the Law has been questionable. Nevertheless, the French experience carries great importance in the context of the new European Union Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive which requires all Member States to enact similar laws. Therefore, the article aims to extrapolate from the French experience, so that the other Member States tasked with the obligation to enact similar laws in the context of the new Directive can benefit from the French experience.
Low-dielectric polyimide resins with improved processability and thermal properties
Authors: Hong Guoqing , Meng Xiangsheng , Chen Aimin , Yan Jingling , Wang Zhen
Published: February 2025

In this work, a series of fluorene-based polyimide resins with pendent and endmost phenylethynyl groups were synthesized using 9,9-Di[4-(3,4-dicarboxyphenoxy)phenyl]-4,5-diazafluorene dianhydride (BPF-PA) and aromatic diamines ((3,5-diaminophenyl) (4-(phenylethynyl)phenyl)methanone (DPEB), 4,4′-oxydianiline (4,4′-ODA)), 4-phenylethynylphthalic anhydride (4-PEPA) as the end-capping reagent. The chemical structure, thermal properties, solubility, and melt flow behavior of the imide oligomers were characterized using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), solubility test, and rheological measurement. The imide oligomers showed high solubility in the low-boiling solvents and low melt viscosity due to their flexible, sterically hindered side-chain and cardo architectures. The thermal properties, mechanical properties, and dielectric properties of the thermosets derived from the imide oligomers were studied using thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA), thermomechanical analysis (TMA), mechanical testing, and dielectric performance testing. The cured resins exhibited outstanding dielectric property in the range of 18–40 GHz involving a dielectric constant (Dk) as low as 2.99 and a dielectric loss (Df) as low as 0.0017 while possessing high thermal decomposition temperature up to 569°C and glass transition temperature up to 345°C. Additionally, the thermosets displayed good mechanical properties, dimensional stability and low water absorption. The obtained polyimide resins exhibited exceptional comprehensive properties, indicating their great potential as matrix resins in the applications of heat resistant, wave transparent composites for the aerospace industry.
Design and analysis of a novel 3-DOF configuration platform based on 2UPS/RU parallel mechanism
Authors: Lu Shiqing , Xie Yiqing , Jin Hui , Wang Lusheng , Huang Xia , Ding Jun
Published: February 2025

In this paper, a novel three degree of freedom configuration platform is presented based on the 2UPS/RU parallel mechanism, which serves as an end-effector for industrial robots, enhancing their workspace and flexibility in confined areas. Utilizing mechanism topology theory and screw theory, we calculate the degrees of freedom and coupling of the 2UPS/RU parallel mechanism. Additionally, the inverse kinematics equations and the velocity Jacobian matrix for the platform are also established. The correlation between the workspace and the structural parameters of the mechanism is expounded, and the dexterity performance index within the workspace is characterized based on the Jacobian matrix. Furthermore, a compactness index is devised to evaluate the relationship between the workspace of the 2UPS/RU parallel mechanism and its structural dimensions by analyzing the platform’s motion characteristics. The structural parameters of the 2UPS/RU parallel mechanism are optimized using the genetic algorithm, with the compactness index parameter and the global dexterity index serving as the objective functions. This optimization results in a 116.92% increase in the compactness index of the configuration platform and an 11.14% improvement in the global dexterity index.
Preview-based MPC for active suspension control of tank vehicle with lateral liquid sloshing suppression
Authors: Pang Ludian , Yue Ming , Qi Gengxin , Liu Yujie , Qian Kun
Published: February 2025

This paper proposes an active suspension control method for tank vehicle, which can effectively suppress the lateral sloshing of liquid cargo, so as to improve the tank vehicle’s roll stability under the coupling excitation of non-structural road environment and additional moments of liquid cargo. Firstly, to describe the additional moments generated by the liquid cargo when the vehicle is laterally excited, a liquid sloshing equivalent mechanical pendulum model is put forward. Further, realizing the significant influence of road parameters on the roll stability of the vehicle, the liquid-vehicle-road coupling model is derived under the consideration of road curvature and cross-slope. Subsequently, based on the road information obtained in advance, a preview-based model predictive control (MPC) controller is designed to improve the roll stability of the tank vehicle and suppress the lateral sloshing of the liquid. Finally, the simulation is verified based on Matlab/Simulink under two complex scenarios, which indicates that the proposed control method can achieve better control effect compared with the traditional linear quadratic regulator (LQR) controller.
Dynamic lane-changing strategy for autonomous articulated heavy vehicles considering vehicles stability in complex environments
Authors: Nie Zhigen , Zhou Yi , Lian Yufeng
Published: February 2025

Articulated heavy vehicles is the mainstay of inter-city freight transportation, and is the one of the most likely fields for the earliest practical applications of intelligent driving. Trajectory planning and tracking of lane change are critical technologies for Autonomous Articulated Heavy Vehicles (AAHVs). Characteristics of the AAHVs susceptible to stability problems resulting from the high height, long lengths, heavy load, and mutual coupling of tractor and trailer, combined the complex environments with the dynamic changes in the states of adjacent vehicles and road adhesion coefficient, pose a significant challenge in dynamic lane change for AAHVs. To address the above challenges, a framework is proposed to achieve the trajectory planning and tracking of dynamic lane change for AAHVs. For trajectory planning approach, the trajectory planning and replanning is optimized in the real-time safe range of the longitudinal length of the lane-changing trajectory to obtain the real-time reference trajectory, considering vehicle stability and lane-changing efficiency. The minimum longitudinal length of lane-changing trajectory is determined by the predictive model of AAHVs stability including swing-out, jack-knifing, and rollover, utilizing the Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) neural network. The minimum longitudinal length, combined with the maximum length formed by the adjacent vehicles with dynamic states, forms the real-time safe range for lane-changing trajectory planning. For trajectory tracking approach, a tracking approach using model predictive control based on multipoint preview is proposed to achieve the real-time planned trajectory tracking. The effectiveness of the proposed strategy is evaluated by simulating an experimentally validated Trucksim model in complex environments to demonstrate the capability of the strategy in trajectory planning and tracking.
Sanitary civility: sanitation and urban co-existence in Maputo City, Mozambique
Authors: Biza Adriano , Rusca Maria , Kooy Michelle , Zwarteveen Margreet
Published: February 2025

In the absence of well-maintained public sanitation infrastructures and adequate service delivery, negotiating sanitation forms an important component of urban life. In Maputo, Mozambique, the responsibility for keeping bodies, houses, toilets and spaces clean falls on the residents. We document these responsibilities and the material and social work they entail. Residents continuously engage in negotiations over what it means to be sanitary, and over the distribution of sanitary responsibilities. These negotiations help enact and sustain wider societal norms about ways of living together. We propose the term ‘sanitary civility’ to capture this relationship between sanitation and city-making. Beyond the importance of agreements on sanitary behaviour in making urban life possible, the term helps to explain how ‘being (seen as) sanitary’ importantly depends on arrangements with neighbours. This understanding challenges prevailing development and public health approaches to, and interventions in, urban sanitation that focus on individual behaviour change.
The acute and sub-chronic toxicological effects of 3-amino-9-ethylcarbazole (AEC) on zebrafish
Authors: Vásárhelyi Erna , Rácz Gergely , Urbányi Béla , Szabó Balázs P. , Szepesi-Bencsik Dóra , Szabó István , Bock Illés , Volner Cintia , Griffitts Jeffrey Daniel , Kriszt Balázs , Bakos Katalin , Csenki Zsolt
Published: February 2025

Introduction

In this study, we sought to determine the sub-chronic toxicological effects of AEC on zebrafish embryos.

Methods

We utilized fish early life stage (FELS) and fish embryo toxicity (FET) tests, vascular, neurological, and renal transgenic zebrafish lines, and gene expression anal-ysis of the zebrafish tissue.

Results

In the FET tests, AEC caused several abnormalities in the larvae, with the LC50 at 24 hpf being 4.076 ± 0.221 mg/L and 3.296 ± 0.127 mg/L at 96 hpf. In the FELS test, AEC was shown to be lethal following 16 days of exposure at 0.5 mg/L, 1 mg/L and 2 mg/L. Some of the transgenic zebrafish lines exhibited slight changes in fluorescent signaling pat-terns after exposure to AEC at 1 mg/L and 2 mg/L. Notable results of the gene expression analysis revealed: gpx4b and got2 were downregulated in the liver; HIF1a was downregulated at 0.25 mg/L and 0.5 mg/L concentrations, NOTCH1a and fli-1 genes were downregulated at all concentrations, and A2b was upregulated in the vasculature; a1T, ngn1, elavl3, syn2a, mbp, gap43 were down-regulated in the nervous system; and wt1b was downregulated in the kidney.

Discuccion

Altogether, the results of our study indicate the potential for AEC to cause harm to organisms.
Awareness of digital curation policy and legal framework among university librarians of Pakistan
Authors: Zareef Muhammad , Jabeen Munazza
Published: February 2025

The article aims to explore the level of awareness among university librarians regarding key concepts, legal framework, main components, and the challenges inherent in digital curation policy (DCP) in the context of university libraries in Pakistan. An online survey was used to determine the opinion of librarians regarding awareness of DCP. A questionnaire was created to satisfy the objective of the study to obtain data from library professionals ( N = 235) working in 160 university libraries. The study findings revealed that university librarians in Pakistan possess a strong awareness of key concepts, legal frameworks, and main components of DCP in libraries. However, most librarians have not yet established DCP in their libraries. Furthermore, the study concluded that challenges are hindering DCP’s establishment and implementation in university libraries, considering, among others, insufficient financing, improper infrastructure, an absence of skilled personnel, and rapid change in technology and standards. The findings of this study possess theoretical significance for scholars and practical relevance for higher education policymakers and university as well as library administrators.
Geometry and Force Dynamics in Simple Spatial Terms: Two Theories, One Resolution
Authors: Landau Barbara
Published: February 2025

Basic spatial terms such as the English prepositions “in,” “on,” “above,” “below,” “left,” and “right” represent spatial relationships that are encoded in languages of the world and are readily learned by young children. How do children learn these terms, and what are the relative contributions of universal foundations from spatial cognition versus language-specific input? I argue that progress can be made on this issue by recognizing two distinct subclasses of spatial terms, each rooted in different classes of spatial properties, leading to different kinds of learning problems for the child. “Geometric” terms such as “above,” “below,” “left,” “right,” and “behind” focus on spatial properties such as the distance and direction between two objects, specified by orthogonal axes centered on a reference object and vectors that define the location of one object relative to the other. By contrast, “force-dynamic” terms such as “in” and “on” focus on the physical and mechanical properties of objects that specify how one object interacts with the force-dynamic properties of the other. The two sets of terms show different degrees of cross-linguistic variation and present different problems for learners, leading to different developmental trajectories and mechanisms of acquisition. They may ultimately derive from fundamentally different cognitive domains—space and objects.
Aptima HPV E6/E7 mRNA and cytology cross-sectional performance as primary screening tests for detection of high-grade cervical lesions in HIV positive and negative women in South Africa
Authors: Richter Karin Louise , Snyman Leon Cornelius , Dreyer Greta , Van der Merwe Frederick Haynes , Dreyer Gerrit Jan , Visser Cathy , Botha Matthys Hendrik
Published: February 2025

Objective

To assess the performance of APTIMA® HPV E6/E7 mRNA assay (AHPV) with HPV 16 and 18/45 genotyping (AHPV-GT) and cytology in detecting cervical cancer and precancer in HIV positive and negative women in South Africa.

Methods

A multicentre cross-sectional study was performed in women aged 25–64 (n = 992) with cytology and AHPV with AHPV-GT reflex testing. All screen-positive and a random subset of screen-negative women were referred for colposcopy and biopsy.

Results

On cytology, low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (LSIL) or higher was found in 9.7% of HIV negative and 35.8% of HIV positive women. HPV mRNA positivity was 19.5% (4.4% HPV 16, 2.8% HPV 18/45, and 6.9% other high-risk HPV) in HIV negative women, compared to 45.8% (9.4% HPV 16, 9.7% HPV 18/45, and 27.6% other high-risk HPV) in HIV positive women . The prevalence of histological abnormalities in HIV negative vs HIV positive women was 24.3 vs 46.0% for cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) 2+, 10.2 vs 24.1% for CIN3+, and 1.4 vs 2.4% for invasive squamous cell carcinoma. AHPV sensitivity for detection of CIN3 + performed the best: 69.0% (95% confidence interval (CI) 56.8–81.1) in HIV negative vs 81.4% (95% CI 73.7–89.0) in HIV positive women, followed by ASCUS + (atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance) cytology: 58.6% (95% CI 45.7–71.6) vs 76.5% (95% CI 68.1–84.8). The best positive predictive value for CIN2 + was for AHPV-GT16, followed by AHPV-GT16,18/45 and cytology LSIL+: HIV-negative women 84.0% (95% CI 68.9–99.1); 76.9% (95% CI 63.3–90.6); 75.0% (95 CI% 61.2–88.9) and HIV-positive women 92.5% (95% CI 84.1–100); 86.8% (95% CI 79.1–94.6); 84.0% (95% CI 77.6–90.3).

Conclusion

Significantly more HPV infection and cytological/histological abnormalities and advanced disease were seen in HIV positive women. The lower than expected clinical sensitivities of all screening tests are comparable to HPV DNA sensitivities reported in similar populations. AHPV with AHPV-GT performed better than cytology as a screening and triage test.
Firm-level Climate Change Exposure and Corporate Cash Holdings: Evidence from Asian Countries
Authors: Le Huong , Nguyen Oanh Thi Kim , Tran Thuy Anh Thi , Phan Trung Bao , Tran Nguyen Trong
Published: February 2025

This study investigates the correlation between climate change exposure and corporate cash holdings. Using climate change data exposed at the firm level of 804 unique firms between 2002 and 2022 in six Asian countries (Japan, Korea, China, Singapore, India, and Hong Kong), this study provides empirical evidence that firms reserve more cash in response to their exposure to climate change. Additionally, we discover that firms with greater financial restrictions have a stronger positive link between cash hoarding and climate change risk. The evidence offered holds up well against different climate change dimensions and the sample before the COVID-19 pandemic.

JEL Code: G32
High prevalence and broad geographic distribution of urine shedding of bovine polyomavirus 1 (Epsilonpolyomavirus bovis) by cattle in Uruguay
Authors: Castells Matías , Zarantonelli Leticia , da Silva Silveira Caroline , Colina Rodney , Giannitti Federico
Published: February 2025

In 2021, bovine polyomavirus 1 (BoPyV1; Polyomaviridae, Epsilonpolyomavirus bovis) was associated with nephritis in an aborted bovine fetus in Uruguay, with renal lesions resembling those typical of polyomavirus-associated nephropathy of humans. Given that little is known about the epidemiology of BoPyV1 infection in cattle, we screened for BoPyV1 in urine samples collected in 2015–2017 from beef and dairy herds from 12 of the 19 departments in Uruguay. We tested for BoPyV1 by PCR in 156 urine pools and 249 individual urine samples from 42 herds. We detected BoPyV1 in 33 of 42 (79%) farms across 100% of the departments studied, in similar proportions in beef (22 of 30; 73%) and dairy (11 of 12; 92%) herds. At the animal level, BoPyV1 was detected in 80 of 249 (32%) animals; this frequency was significantly higher in dairy (51 of 119; 43%) than beef (29 of 130; 22%) cattle, and in cows (36 of 81; 44%) than heifers (32 of 121; 26%). BoPyV1 strains circulating in Uruguay have a high degree (98.7–100%) of sequence identity at the major capsid protein VP1, which is slightly lower (96.2–99.7%) than for strains from other countries. We conclude that shedding of BoPyV1 in the urine of dairy and beef cattle is prevalent and geographically widespread in Uruguay.
Following in the Footsteps of Others: Social Proof in Angel Groups
Authors: Wesemann Lekkas Henrik , Antretter Torben , Shepherd Dean , Wincent Joakim
Published: February 2025

This study develops a theory of social proof in angel investing. We propose that availability bias leads angel group members to copy the highly visible decisions of new investors evaluating the same opportunity ( external social proof) and overlook the more insightful reinvestment decisions of prior investors ( internal social proof). We also theorize that more experienced investors generally herd less but selectively imitate knowledgeable investors from prior rounds. A study of investments by 469 angel group members and a vignette experiment with 367 participants support our hypotheses. Our findings contribute to research on social proof, decision-making under uncertainty, and investment experience.
Adaptive fuzzy control for practical fixed-time synchronization of fractional-order chaotic systems
Authors: Boulkroune Abdesselem , Zouari Farouk , Boubellouta Amina
Published: February 2025

The field of chaotic systems control and synchronization has garnered considerable attention in light of its promising applications across various domains like secure communication, vibration suppression, and image processing. The paper investigates the problem of practical fixed-time master-slave synchronization for dissimilar fractional-order chaotic systems. Two novel adaptive fuzzy sliding-mode controllers employing non-singular fixed-time sliding surfaces are proposed to achieve practical fixed-time synchronization. Fuzzy logic systems, known for their ability to handle complex uncertainties, are used in our synchronization schemes to estimate continuous functional uncertainties. The effectiveness of the proposed synchronization schemes is validated through a simulation study.
Braking force distribution strategy for virtual rail trains based on I-curve
Authors: Zuo Jianyong , Diao Pengfei , Ding Jingxian , Chen Yuejian
Published: February 2025

The virtual rail trains have attracted much attention in recent years thanks to their high passenger capacity and low construction cost. In this paper, braking force distribution strategy for virtual rail trains with three-car and six-axle was studied. Based on the principle of axle load proportion distribution, braking force distribution method of the four-wheel single car under curve braking was studied by applying the I-curve theory. The distribution laws of centrifugal force between axles during curve braking were analyzed, the lateral force provided by the tires of each axle can be calculated, and the remaining tire adhesion can be set as the upper limit of braking force, which can ensure the maximum utilization of tire adhesion. The method was extended to multi-series trains by analyzing the additional influence of hinge points on the lateral force, and a braking force distribution strategy considering the car body hinge coupling relationship was proposed. Finally, the effectiveness of the strategy was verified by hardware-in-the-loop tests. The research results provide guidelines on the brake control of newly emerged virtual rail trains.
Behind the Illusion: Unmasking the Coercion in Pornography Production
Authors: Donevan Meghan , Svedin Carl Göran , Dennhag Inga , Jonsson Linda S.
Published: February 2025

Despite extensive research and public discourse on the effects of pornography on consumers, little attention has been given to the experiences of those filmed for its production. Drawing upon in-depth interviews with 28 individuals filmed for pornography, we explored what pornography represents for them and its implications for their lives. Through reflexive thematic analysis, we identified three main themes: Coercion behind the illusion of desire, A public record, and Enduring impacts. Our findings challenge the notion that pornography predominantly features sexual acts devoid of coercion. We conclude by discussing the legal and practical implications of our findings.
Gut microbiota: A new window for the prevention and treatment of neuropsychiatric disease
Authors: Tang Yali , Zhang Yizhu , Chen Chen , Cao Ying , Wang Qiaona , Tang Chuanfeng
Published: February 2025

Under normal physiological conditions, gut microbiota and host mutually coexist. They play key roles in maintaining intestinal barrier integrity, absorption, and metabolism, as well as promoting the development of the central nervous system (CNS) and emotional regulation. The dysregulation of gut microbiota homeostasis has attracted significant research interest, specifically in its impact on neurological and psychiatric disorders. Recent studies have highlighted the important role of the gut- brain axis in conditions including Alzheimer’s Disease (AD), Parkinson’s Disease (PD), and depression. This review aims to elucidate the regulatory mechanisms by which gut microbiota affect the progression of CNS disorders via the gut-brain axis. Additionally, we discuss the current research landscape, identify gaps, and propose future directions for microbial interventions against these diseases. Finally, we provide a theoretical reference for clinical treatment strategies and drug development for AD, PD, and depression.
Study on the effect of wear and accuracy correction of the detecting arm of leaf spring caliper
Authors: Wang Hao , Ding Lei , Zhou Jing , Gao Xi
Published: February 2025

Leaf spring calipers are widely used as a new type of gas pipeline calipers with outstanding advantages. However, their detection accuracy is easily affected by the wear and tear of leaf springs. This paper proposes a solution to compensate for the wear error. A wear model of the detection arm is established, and a wear detection test bench is built according to the model. The wear-mileage correction function is obtained by fitting the experimental results of the wear test rig. This function can be directly applied to the pipeline inspection to compensate for the wear error. Based on the principle of compensating for wear errors, this paper proposes another scheme: A machine learning (ML) approach is used to predict the wear patterns of leaf springs, and the predicted wear patterns are used to compensate for wear errors. In the prediction experiments, the Least Squares Support Vector Machine (LS-SVM) method is used to predict the wear values of leaf springs. A 10-fold cross-validation technique minimizes the bias of the model, and a set of hyperparameter values is found by adjusting the hyperparameters to satisfy the error requirements. The prediction results of machine learning are validated by extending the experimental mileage method, and the validation results satisfy the accuracy requirements. The results obtained in this paper provide a brand new idea to improve the detection accuracy of other types of pipe detectors.
Entwined tenets of destination evangelism and commitment in social-media-based travel community
Authors: Sharma Purvendu , Sharma Abhinav , Patel Shivan Sanjay
Published: February 2025

The present study aims to improve our understanding of destination evangelism, commitment, and engagement in the context of social-media-based travel communities (SMTCs). Additionally, it investigates distinct antecedents and outcomes, adding unique specificities to SMTCs’ engagement, commitment, and evangelism. The collected data were analyzed using structural equation modeling. The findings signify that customer citizenship behavior (CCB) positively impacts evangelism and engagement, thereby affecting commitment. The sense of obligation for altruistic actions (SOAA) impacts commitment, engagement, and evangelism and is positively influenced by CCB. Our data reinforce the mediating effects of engagement, evangelism, and SOAA, which could help advance existing tourism literature. Specifically, SOAA mediated the relationships between 1. CCB and engagement and 2. CCB and evangelism. Evangelism mediates the relationships between 1. SOAA and commitment, and 2. SOAA and engagement. Engagement mediated the relationship between SOAA and commitment. This study is one of the few to integrate these constructs, weaving and binding diverse streams of tourism, engagement, evangelism, CCB, and SOAA, which further explains and extends the literature on travel commitment in SMTC settings.
The dynamics of negativity in media outlets during the Greek sovereign bond crisis
Authors: Nones Nicola
Published: February 2025

It is well known that the media display an asymmetric reaction to real-world events, which results in the prioritisation of negative coverage. However, there is still much to discover regarding the qualitative distinctions between different media types and the dynamics of negativity. This article investigates how different media outlets framed Greece in evaluative terms during and after the Sovereign Bond Crisis relying on 12,376 articles published in the British press between 2009 and 2018. The study confirms earlier findings that the ‘negativity bias’ differs across media types in terms of the level of negative tone. In addition, the study’s significant contribution is to highlight the persistence of negativity. Fractional integration time series econometrics is employed to assess the extent to which tonality persists over time. As theorised, all the time series of tonality exhibit long-term memory. Moreover, some evidence is found of differentials in negativity persistence across media outlet types.
A new design method for model reference adaptive control systems based on Lyapunov stability theory
Authors: Cheng Zixuan , Zhang Bo , Zhang Yi , Liu Xiaojing , Wei Yongdong , Fang Wen
Published: February 2025

Based on Lyapunov stability theory, the adaptive law of single-input and single-output controlled plant and the model reference adaptive control system (MRACS) with signal synthesis form are studied in a unified format. This study proposes an MRAC design method that takes states from the model using only the input and output measured values of the controlled plant when the derivatives of various orders of the controlled plant are not measurable. By adopting the method of taking states from the model, this paper not only solves the problem of the plant’s states being unmeasurable but also significantly enhances the system’s disturbance rejection capability. The effectiveness of the method was verified through digital simulations, showing that the controlled plant output can better follow the reference model output, indicating that this approach has greater application value.
SQUIRREL: Balancing design automation and user interaction in a computational tool for designing segmented concrete shells
Authors: Costa Eduardo , Oval Robin , Orr John , Shepherd Paul
Published: February 2025

The Automating Concrete Construction (ACORN) project explored digital workflows from the design to the construction of reinforced concrete building floor elements, reducing carbon emissions and increasing efficiency of building processes. The resulting digital tool, named SQUIRREL, enabled the design of shells, composed of prefabricated segments, through an interactive framework, composed of parametric design tools, and informed by architectural, structural, and construction requirements, including building integration, fabrication, transport, assembly, and resource reuse. This paper presents the design and implementation of the SQUIRREL tool, focusing on the main design tasks for a segmented reinforced concrete shell, including formfinding and segmentation layout definition. This paper also documents the development and application of a Design Space Visualisation module within SQUIRREL, which streamlined parametric studies used to inform the design decisions behind the modelling and implementation process. Finally, we discuss the right balance between design automation and user interaction, which should inform the development of future construction-aware computational design tools.
Beyond the consent paradigm: Problematizing representations of AI-generated pornography in the education discourse of the UN
Authors: Kardos Bogáta
Published: February 2025

Generative AI is expansively used to create pornographic material. These images and practices are becoming a part of the sexual culture and have an influential impact on gender inequality. Many of the images are generated without the knowledge of the women in the material, and a considerable amount of them are child sexual abuse materials. GenAI and technology-facilitated violence have been in the scope of the United Nation's concern, and educational guidelines have been published in 2023. This paper sets out to conduct a feminist critical policy analysis on the most recent UN guidelines to investigate the discourses that dominate the response to GenAI. The analysis shows that the critique of GenAI often centres around the non-consensual nature of the generation and distribution of pornographic images. Furthermore, the discourse fails to connect AI-generated pornography to the issues of pornography in the first place, which gives a depoliticized and dehistoricized discourse about the problems of AI-generated pornography. The paper critiques the narrow focus on consent and explores feminist ways to approach the issues with AI-generated pornography. The paper also discusses implications for education and future policies.