bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
DIFFERENCES IN KNOWLEDGE ON ORAL CANCER AMONG PATIENTS WITH PRECANCEROUS DISEASES AND HEALTHY INDIVIDUALS
Authors: Rimkevicius A. , Kscenaviciute V. , Rasteniene R. , Puriene A.
Published: February 2025

Aim: To compare differences in knowledge about oral cancer primary prevention between patients with oral precancerous diseases and healthy controls.

Methods: All patients were asked to participate in the study and fill 20-item pretested questionnaire during Oral Cancer Week events in Lithuania. Questionnaire included items about background characteristics, addictions (smoking, alcohol intake) and knowledge about risk factors. The study was approved by Lithuanian Bioethics Committee (2R- 2149). Data were analysed using SPSS v21.0, statistical significance was set at p<0.05.

Results: 803 people participated in Oral Cancer Week events in Lithuania and 83 patients were diagnosed with oral precancerous diseases. Of these 76 completed the questionnaire, a response rate 91.2%. The controls (n=78) were randomly selected from the healthy patient group by age and gender. Overall 154 were included into study. Among respondents, average age was 54.4±16.9. Male to female ratio 1: 3.3. Almost half of patients had a university level education (n=69, 44.8%) and were workers (n=74, 48.1%). In relation to risk factors, 70 (92.1%) patients with precancerous diseases were aware that smoking causes oral cancer and 6 (7.9%) were smokers, in the control group 69 (87.3%) were aware of smoking risks and 10 (12.7%) were smokers (p>0.05). The mean knowledge score (maximum score 11) was 5.3±2.9 among patients and 6.9±2.3 in controls (p<0.05). Questionnaire responses showed 39 (51.3%) patients with precancerous disease were aware oral cancer could be treated and 26 (34.2%) indicated oral cancer could be contagious. In controls 28 (35.9%) were aware oral cancer could be treated and 50 (64.1%) indicated oral cancer could be contagious (p<0.05). A total of 31 (40.8%) patients considered oral cancer could be prevented while in the control group only 12 (15.4%) supported this opinion (p<0.05).

Conclusions: The present study showed that a lack of knowledge is common between patients with oral precancerous diseases and healthy individuals. We suggest an increase of oral cancer primary prevention awareness is necessary to reduce the prevalence of oral precancerous diseases and oral malignancies.
Being all things to all people: How gender shapes entrepreneurs’ multifaceted digital identities on X
Authors: Hanek Kathrin J , Bendell Bari L , Sullivan Diane M , Zinoviev Dmitry
Published: February 2025

Drawing on identity work frameworks, this article investigates the influence of gender on entrepreneurs’ digital identities on social media. Using a sample of 17,899 active X profiles from self-identified entrepreneurs across seven English-speaking countries, we found that women entrepreneurs display multifaceted digital identities characterised by variety and balance. Compared to men, women entrepreneurs were especially likely to display a multifaceted digital identity in less gender-equal societies, suggesting that gender norms – society’s expectations for the performance of gender – may function as a mechanism for identity work in digital contexts. The results also indicate that women entrepreneurs benefit from displaying multifaceted identities with respect to network-building, although this relationship was stronger in more gender-equal societies. Through examining women entrepreneurs from multiple countries, these findings contribute to a generalisable understanding of their digital identity work as situated in a fundamentally gendered context that necessitates a socially credible – that is, gendered – identity performance.
Blood conservation strategies in complex aortic surgery for a Jehovah’s Witness: A case report
Authors: Lewis Hannah , Devlin Joseph
Published: February 2025

Introduction: Complex aortic surgery involving Jehovah’s Witness patients presents a significant challenge due to their refusal of blood products.

Case report: This case report details the management of a 50-year-old female Jehovah’s Witness with anaemia and a low body surface area, undergoing an urgent ascending aorta and hemi-arch replacement for a type A dissection. A broad range of blood conservation strategies were utilised in order to preserve haematocrit and clotting factors.

Conclusions: This report highlights the importance of careful planning, team collaboration, and the meticulous application of blood conservation techniques in achieving a favourable postoperative outcome.
Energy-Optimal Speed Planning in Urban Multiple-Intersection Scenarios Based on the Pruning Algorithm, Ant Colony Algorithm, and Dynamic Programming
Authors: Pan Chaofeng , Cai Chongyu , Wang Jian , Liang Jun , Zhou Weiqi
Published: February 2025

This study focuses on the speed planning problem for connected electric vehicles in a multiple signalized intersection scenario. A dynamic programming (DP) algorithm can generate a more energy-efficient speed trajectory for a vehicle. However, it is computationally heavy and time-consuming. Therefore, this paper proposes a double-layer speed planning scheme to achieve the optimization of the energy used by electric vehicles (EVs) along routes with multiple intersections. In the first layer, to reduce the computational dimension of speed planning problems, we design a convex space planning method that considers multiple signalized intersections by combining the pruning algorithm and the ant colony algorithm (P-ACA). In the second layer, the energy optimization problem for electric vehicles crossing multiple intersections within the constraints of the convex space was constructed, and the energy-optimal speed was obtained based on DP. Next, a model predictive control (MPC) controller was designed to achieve accurate and rapid longitudinal speed control of electric vehicles. The simulation results show that the method proposed in this paper has considerable energy-saving potential in multiple-intersection scenarios. Compared with the modified smart driver model (M-IDM), energy consumption is reduced by 23.44%. The proposed double-layer speed-planning scheme significantly reduces the computation time required for speed planning. Finally, hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) tests were conducted to verify the effectiveness of the controller under real-time conditions.
Settlement Calculation Method of Lakeside Soft Soil Foundations Based on the Statistical Analysis of Physical and Mechanical Indexes
Authors: Zhang Jian , Huang Linxuan , Gao Jinxin , Wu Duohua , Cheng Guangtan , Ren Zhe , Gao Qiang , Xue Hao
Published: February 2025

The understanding of the settlement deformation law of lakeside soft soil foundations and the definition of a reasonable settlement calculation formula are essential when setting the basis for road design and construction. The present study focuses on the application of a statistical analysis of physical and mechanical indexes to study the settlement law of the lakeside soft soil foundations, with the Jinan-Weishan expressway in China as the study case. With this aim, a correlation among the natural void ratio, compressive modulus, natural water content, density, and liquid index of the lakeside soft soil layer was performed. An improved method for settlement calculation was proposed by combining the calculation formula for predicting settlement for soft soil foundations in the lakeside area with the layer-wise summation method. Laboratory tests were performed to verify its validity. The results evidence a positive correlation of the natural void ratio with the water content and the liquid index, as well as the compressive modulus with the density. The natural void ratio reveals a negative correlation with the density, as well as the compressive modulus with the natural water content and the liquid index. Both the theoretical calculations and the experimental results illustrate that the settlement initially increases rapidly with time, then increases slowly until eventually reaching a stable state after about the 190th day. The settlement deviation between experimental findings and theoretical calculations after 190 days was less than 10%. This supports the suitability of the improved method of determining e–p curves based on density.
Losing Confidence and Networks as an Impact of Staff/Faculty-Student Sexual Harassment: Quantitative Findings From the UK
Authors: Bull Anna , Bradley Alexander
Published: February 2025

Sexual misconduct perpetrated by faculty/staff in higher education can have severe and long-lasting impacts. This study reports on a survey of 1,768 current and former students in U.K. higher education carried out in 2018, of whom 734 had experienced at least one incident of sexual misconduct. Sexual misconduct was measured by questions on sexual conduct from faculty/staff that aimed to establish whether a sexualized environment existed rather than asking whether behaviors were unwanted. Within this sample, 734 had experienced a sexualized environment from faculty/staff. They were asked to self-assess the impacts this had on them, and 34% reported that they had been negatively impacted by this conduct. The most common impacts were loss of self-confidence; mental health problems; professional relations being damaged; loss of confidence in academic work; and avoiding parts of campus, each experienced by 14% to 18% of this sample. Items that measured academic disengagement such as missing contact hours or dropping/changing a module were also impactful for a minority of respondents, in line with existing literature. The article discusses two impacts that are underexplored in previous research on sexual misconduct in academia: the ability to network; and self-confidence. First, our study indicates that there are significant impacts of sexual misconduct on students’ ability to network and build professional relationships. However, existing studies on this topic have not discussed sexual misconduct as a barrier to networking. Second, the study reveals that, among this sample, loss of confidence was the most common impact of being subjected to sexual misconduct. This supports Gill and Orgad’s theorization of the “confidence culture,” a trend among popular and corporate gender equality discourses that exhorts women to develop their confidence, obscuring the structural reasons for women’s lower confidence; our findings show that sexual misconduct is one of these reasons.
Eddy current testing in nickel-based superalloy turbine blades: Finite element modeling and tiny crack defects analysis
Authors: Lei Zihao , Zhou Yanrun , Xue Xinhai , Su Yu , Wen Guangrui , Zhang Zhifen , Chen Xuefeng
Published: February 2025

As the crucial distributed industrial asset of aero engines, the manufacturing quality of turbine blades directly affects the service safety of aircraft engines. During the manufacturing process, cracks may occur in the inner wall of turbine blades, which could present a potential safety hazard for aero engines. However, existing research on eddy current detection for the defects of cracks on the inner wall of nickel-based superalloy turbine blades is relatively limited, especially in finite element modeling and simulation analysis. To design an eddy current probe for the detection of cracks on the inner wall of a blade, a simulation model for eddy current detection of cracks on the back of a nickel-based superalloy plate was established by using the finite element method. A systematic analysis was conducted to investigate the influence of coil and crack parameters, in conjunction with probe configuration, on eddy current detection signals. The selection method of coil parameters and the effect of crack parameters on signals were summarized according to the results. Furthermore, the simulation results demonstrated that the Transmit-Receive (TR) probe exhibited the highest detection sensitivity compared with the absolute probe and the differential probe. Additionally, the addition of a magnetic core was found to significantly improve the detection performance of the TR probe.
The Rise of Chinese Universities: Research, Innovation and Building World-class Universities
Authors: Krishna Venni V , Zhang Xinpei , Jiang Yuheng
Published: February 2025

Higher educational institutions coupled with research and development (R&D) and S&T institutions are intimately intertwined with the rise of Asia in the global knowledge economy. First Japan, followed by the Dragon economies together with China, South Korea and India continue to play a dominant role in characterising twenty-first century as the Asian Century. In the last couple of decades, the rise of China has caught up the imagination of people and governments alike all over the world. This has happened not only because of China’s manufacturing prowess and skills that the country has mastered over the decades, but also because of her ability and potential to develop human capital, training, advancement of knowledge and innovation impacting the national economy. In other words, science, technology and innovation policies (STI) in the last couple of decades enabled a select band of Chinese universities to not only enhance their research intensity but scale up in the rankings of world-class universities. STI strategies were systematically deployed towards building human capital and promoting ‘triple helix’-based entrepreneurship and innovation in universities. China is second only to the USA in the global research output of papers in science and engineering as well as R&D expenditure. It is the leading nation in the world not only in the production of science and engineering undergraduates and graduates but also PhDs. Chinese multinational firms such as Alibaba, Tencent, Huawei and others, emerged to rival those in Japan and the USA in the last two decades. All this could not have been possible without harnessing education at all levels, but particularly in universities impacting advances in science and technology research. In the early 1990s, none of the Chinese universities figured in the top 200 list of World University Rankings. Within two decades, more than half a dozen Chinese universities were listed in the top 200, three in the Top 100 and two in the Top 50. More than any other factor, universities have come to occupy a very significant position in the Chinese national innovation system.
The Bottom Line of Personalization: Unravelling the Power of Algorithms and Segmentation Through a Systematic Review
Authors: Shrivastava Rachit , Dubey Sujit Kumar
Published: February 2025

Personalized algorithm is a set of complex mathematical models that use various techniques such as machine learning and data mining. Individuals’ personal information is collected and processed in various ways to create personalized experiences. This article aims to have a thorough outlook of personalization in a varied retail touchpoint. The study initiated the work by conducting comprehensive systematic literature review of personalization by utilizing the techniques of science mapping, performance analysis and formulating the PRISMA model framework. A systematic review was done using two significant databases, Scopus and Web of Science, based on which significant themes were identified. At the end, study judiciously concludes by offering the future research direction to incorporate the technological advancements in the form of big data analysis, Internet of Things, artificial intelligence and humanoid shopping assistant to lay out the adaptation and feasibility of personalization in the omnichannel retailing.
Navigating Relationships With Birth Family After Aging Out of Foster Care: Experiences of Young People
Authors: Havlicek Judy , Holland Sally , Taussig Heather
Published: February 2025

As young people age out of foster care, many seek out their birth parents and extended families, but little is known about how these connections are navigated given past separations. Drawing from data previously collected from young people who aged out of foster care in a metropolitan area of one Western state ( n = 57), this study analyzed the responses from 53 young adults between the ages of 18 and 22 who answered two open-ended questions about (a) reconnecting with birth families after foster care and (b) the nature of their current relationships with their biological parents. A three-step analytic process searched for themes in the data and distilled three groups: (a) Reconnected and navigating a relationship ( n = 36; 68%), (b) Always connected and in a relationship ( n = 8; 15%), and (c) Not connected and not interested in a relationship ( n = 9; 17%). Implications for practice and recommendations for future research are offered.
Geometry design, tooth wear evaluation and pressure angle influence analysis of asymmetric face gear considering load sharing of multi-pair contact
Authors: Jia Chao , Yu Guian , Yao Ligang , Fang Zongde
Published: February 2025

In response to the new requirements for face gear transmissions in the latest heavy-load helicopters, this paper investigates the impact of pressure angle variations on the geometric contact and performance of asymmetric face gears. Firstly, using meshing theory, the tooth surface equations for asymmetric rack cutter, shaper, and face gear are derived, and the parameterized 3D models are created. Secondly, the line of action (LOA), contact ratio, contact point curvature, and load sharing ratio considering multi-pair contact (MPC) under different pressure angles are analyzed. Then, a wear calculation model based on the Archard wear equation is developed, detailing the tooth surface wear depth calculation. Finally, a case study calculates the contact stress and wear depth under different pressure angles is presented. The results indicate that appropriately increasing the pressure angle effectively lower the contact stress and wear depth on tooth surface, although further increases degrade meshing performance. The gear pair with a pressure angle of 30° in the case study exhibits optimal performance. This study provides a reference for optimizing asymmetric face gear meshing performance under various pressure angles.
Perceived infection risk, infection exposure, and compliance to infection control measures among the first COVID-19 patients in Norway
Authors: Sætrevik Bjørn , Cox Rebecca J. , Linchausen Dagrun W. , Bjørkheim Sebastian B.
Published: February 2025

Aims:

The COVID-19 pandemic provided a unique opportunity to assess how infected patients viewed risk. We investigated whether cases infected early in the pandemic had assessed the risk to be lower, been more exposed and took fewer precautions to prevent infection.

Methods:

We asked first-wave Norwegian COVID-19 patients ( n = 88) to recall how they had thought about risk of infection, exposure in potential infectious situations and their compliance to infection control measures early in the pandemic. Answers from this group were compared WITH emergency room patients with non-pulmonary complaints ( n = 75) and with a nationally representative sample ( n = 4083).

Results:

Both patient groups saw the risk as lower than did the representative sample. Contact with infected people was more frequent for the COVID-19 patients than for the other patients. More of the COVID-19 patients had travelled abroad immediately before the outbreak. COVID-19 patients complied less with the infection control measures than did the representative sample. The COVID-19 patients agreed less than the other patients with a statement that they had ‘complied in general’.

Conclusions:

Risk-behaviour was overrepresented among the first COVID-19 patients. Potential memory artefacts should be considered when interpreting the results.
Spatiotemporal distributions for prevalences of indoor damp indicators in residences from 1980 to 2020 in China
Authors: Cai Jiao , Yang Minghan , Lai Wangjin , Zhang Nan , Liu Wei
Published: February 2025

Few studies assessed the long-term changes in the prevalence of indoor damp indicators in residences. In this paper, we tried to clarify nationwide spatial-temporal distributions of the prevalences of damp indicators in residences in the past four decades in China and compared the prevalences in other countries. A systematic review was conducted in three Chinese-language databases and two English-language databases from January 1980 to December 2020 according to the guidelines of PRISMA (preferred reporting items for systematic review and meta-analysis). After reviewing 5580 documents, 86 articles that provided specific data were retained for the review of prevalences of damp indicators in residences. Windowpane condensation was the most common damp indicator in residences (averaged: 34.1%, 95% CI: 28.1–40.1), followed by damp clothing and/or bedding (26.5%, 95% CI: 22.0–31.0), mouldy odour (13.3%, 95% CI: 10.4–16.2), water damage (12.5%, 95% CI: 8.6–16.5), visible mould spots (12.2%, 95% CI: 8.7–15.7) and visible damp stains (11.8%, 7.1%–16.5%) in dwellings in China. In the past four decades, increasing trends of window pane condensation prevalences and mouldy odour were noted and trend was then declined after 2010, whereas prevalences of water damage and visible damp stains were generally shown to produce decreasing trends in the surveys. Our findings provide comprehensive data for the evaluation of indoor damp indicators in residences in China.
Implementing virtual reality training in policing: A case study using the technology acceptance model
Authors: Halford Eric , Taleb Hussain AlShaima , Keningale Paige , Condon Camie
Published: February 2025

The purpose of this article is to explore the acceptance of virtual reality (VR) training in a single police service that implemented the technology as a key part of its training procedures. We examined satisfaction data from surveys of police officers and civilian staff collected over three years, complemented by interviews with staff involved in the development and use of VR. The technology acceptance model (TAM) provides the theoretical framework for exploring six hypotheses based on previous research, enabling the study to assess the perceived ease of use, usefulness, enjoyment, immersion, interaction, and future intention to use VR technology. Insights were derived from a combination of descriptive and inferential statistics, along with thematic analysis. Results show a consistent upward trend in officer satisfaction with VR, along with strong evidence of perceived usefulness, immersion, and interactivity. Significant findings indicate a link between satisfaction with VR and education, with PhD holders reporting the highest levels of satisfaction. Gender differences were also evident, with female participants expressing higher satisfaction than males. In addition, participants with more than 10 years of service reported significantly lower satisfaction than mid-service officers, suggesting that age may be a contributory factor. These findings are discussed in the context of the interplay between demographic factors and technology acceptance in policing. We emphasize the need for the development of tailored training and communication strategies to support the effective implementation of VR technology as a medium for instruction for employees of all ages and genders.
Decolonising the canon: The case of Bhambra and Holmwood’s Colonialism and Modern Social Theory
Authors: Hammersley Martyn
Published: February 2025

Two closely related strategies are currently being used in efforts to ‘decolonise’ sociology: subjecting the writings normally included in the sociological ‘canon’ to close scrutiny as regards their treatment, or neglect, of colonialism; and introducing the work of people of colour into the canon, for example that of W. E. B. Du Bois. Both these strategies are used by Bhambra and Holmwood in their influential book Colonialism and Modern Social Theory. They focus mainly on the work of Tocqueville, Marx, Durkheim and Weber, emphasising the significance of colonialism, but they also include a chapter on Du Bois. In this paper I address a series of issues raised by their book. These concern: the nature of the discipline that is being decolonised; the approach that the authors take towards sociological work of the past; their rejection of stadial theory; and their arguments for the centrality of colonialism to sociology. I also critically assess their accounts of the main sociologists they discuss, suggesting that, in some key respects, these are misleading.
Research on Law and Policy to Prevent Teen Dating Violence: Scoping Review
Authors: Exner-Cortens Deinera , Sharma Sasha , Craig Wendy
Published: February 2025

Teen dating violence (TDV) is a global public health issue with numerous consequences for physical, psychological, social, and emotional well-being. Thus, prevention of TDV has been a focus of research attention for the past several decades. As part of a comprehensive TDV prevention approach, programs, practices, and policies are needed. Yet, no prior research has reviewed the state of the science on laws and policies designed to prevent or address TDV. Thus, the objective of this scoping review was to identify existing global, empirical research on law and policy for TDV prevention and intervention at the municipal, provincial/state/territorial, or federal/national levels. Through comprehensive searches in eight databases in February 2022 and January 2024, we located 4,826 articles for potential inclusion. From this pool, articles were included if they focused on adolescents and on TDV-relevant law or policy at the local/municipal/school, state/provincial/territorial, or federal/national level(s), and were published in a peer-reviewed journal in English between January 1983 and December 2023. Following title/abstract screening and full-text review, 19 studies were ultimately included. These 19 studies focused on TDV law and policy content (36.8%, n = 7), implementation (36.8%, n = 7), and outcomes (26.3%, n = 5). All studies but one were conducted in high-income countries. Findings from this body of work may be useful as other jurisdictions develop TDV prevention and intervention laws and policies. Future work is also needed to understand the developmental, contextual, and policy context for TDV prevention outside of high-income, Western countries.
Artificial Intelligence in Public Health Education: Navigating Ethical Challenges and Empowering the Next Generation of Professionals
Authors: Love Ashley S. , Niu Chunling , Labay-Marquez Joan
Published: February 2025

The public health workforce is transitioning significantly, with many experienced professionals retiring and an increasing demand for new competencies. Integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI) into public health education presents an innovative solution to address these challenges. AI provides opportunities for personalized learning, interdisciplinary collaboration, and scalable training, but AI introduces ethical challenges that must be addressed. Key regulations such as the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) and the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) are crucial in guiding the ethical use of AI in education and practice. AI can enhance public health education by fostering interprofessional learning and preparing a workforce capable of meeting evolving health challenges. Ethical considerations surrounding data privacy, bias, and regulatory compliance are examined. The importance of AI literacy for seasoned professionals is discussed, as they will be pivotal in mentoring the next generation of public health workers. The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated technology adoption, making this an ideal time to integrate AI into public health education. Although AI offers valuable insights and tools, public health professionals must learn to assess AI outputs to ensure equitable and effective outcomes critically. A balanced approach to AI in public health education that combines technological innovation with ethical responsibility is needed for the field’s advancement. Establishing guidelines and governance frameworks for AI integration in public health education, promoting AI literacy in health education programs, ensuring data privacy and ethical use, and advocating for interprofessional partnerships to shape AI policies to support public health goals are critical.
Asymptomatic Carotid Stenosis is Associated With Mobility Dysfunction: Results From the InChianti Study
Authors: Desikan Sarasijhaa K. , Borrelli James , Gray Vicki L. , Kankaria Aman A. , Terrin Michael , Lal Brajesh K.
Published: February 2025

Background

Older adults with mobility dysfunction are at risk for falls, hospitalization, and death. In an earlier pilot study, individuals with asymptomatic carotid artery stenosis (ACAS) demonstrated mobility dysfunction when compared to individuals without ACAS. We tested whether carotid stenosis affected mobility function in a larger community-dwelling cohort using the Invecchaire in Chianti (InCHIANTI) database.

Methods

We analyzed data from participants in the InCHIANTI study who completed a medical history, carotid duplex testing, and mobility function testing (Short Physical Performance Battery- SPPB). Participants with a history of stroke, transient ischemic attack, or carotid endarterectomy were excluded. 709 participants met inclusion criteria (116 ACAS, 593 no ACAS). Our analytic approach sought to evaluate the impact of stenosis on mobility after accounting for age, sex and cardiovascular risk factors. Age was stratified into 2 age-groups (65-74 and 75-84 years). Two-way ANOVA was used to test the effect of stenosis-group, age-group, and their interactions on SPPB score with sex as a covariate.

Results

Stenosis-group ( P = 0.0002), age-group ( P < 0.0001), and the interaction between stenosis-group and age-group ( P = 0.0008) significantly affected SPPB. Post-hoc testing showed that participants with ACAS demonstrated worse performance on the SPPB (9.81 ± 0.37) compared to those with no ACAS (11.10 ± 0.11) in the 65-74 years age-group ( P < 0.0001).

Conclusions

65-74-year-old adults with ACAS performed significantly worse on the SPPB than those without ACAS. These results lend further support that ACAS may be associated with mobility dysfunction in older adults.
Variation in Clinically Significant Prostate Cancer on Fusion Biopsy of PI-RADS 3–5 Lesions Based on Ethnicity
Authors: Edelblute Beth , Aly Ahmed , Jing Zhe , WasayMahmood Abdul , Watts Kara , Sankin Alex , Maria Pedro , Guru Khurshid , Aboumohamed Ahmed
Published: February 2025

Our aim is to investigate the prevalence of clinically significant prostate cancer (Gleason score 3+4 or higher) on fusion biopsy for Prostate Imaging Reporting and Data System (PI-RADS) 3–5 lesions based on ethnicity. A retrospective analysis was conducted on patients who underwent fusion biopsy between 2016 and 2022 at two institutions. The prevalence of Gleason score 3+4 or higher within each ethnic group (Caucasian, African American, and Hispanics) was assessed. Possible correlation between PI-RADS lesion score and race was also assessed. Among the 918 patients included in the analysis, 54% were Caucasian, 29% were African American, and 17% were Hispanic. A total of 1,384 lesions were identified (PI-RADS 3—34%, PI-RADS 4—40%, and PI-RADS 5—26%). The prevalence of clinically significant prostate cancer by PI-RADS score and ethnicity was similar: (PI-RADS 3—Caucasian 13%, African American 13%, and Hispanic 9%, p = .45; PI-RADS 4—Caucasian 42%, African American 34%, and Hispanic 38%, p = .29; PI-RADS 5—Caucasian 63%, African American 64%, and Hispanic 51%, p = .38). In conclusion, the prevalence of clinically significant cancer did not significantly differ across PI-RADS 3–5 among different ethnicities on image-guided fusion biopsy.
Associations between maternal birth complications and postpartum depressive symptoms: A systematic narrative review and meta-analysis
Authors: Cárdenas Emilia F , Yu Eileen , Jackson Maya , Humphreys Kathryn L , Kujawa Autumn
Published: February 2025

Background:

Nearly half of people report birth-related complications, which is thought to be a risk factor for postpartum depression (PPD).

Objectives:

The goal of this systematic narrative review and meta-analysis was to provide an updated examination of the literature linking specific maternal birth complications and PPD.

Design:

A systematic review was conducted focused on studies examining associations between specific maternal birth complications and PPD symptoms/and or diagnoses, along with meta-analyses to quantify the magnitude of associations for specific experiences. The review protocol was not pre-registered.

Methods:

Searches were completed using PsycINFO and PubMed databases. We used four eligibility criteria: (a) article available in English, (b) study included a measure of dimensional or diagnostic depression, (c) include discrete experience of birth-related complication, and (d) included a statistical test of the bivariate association between depression in the postpartum period and a measure of birth-related complication. We excluded studies of newborn intensive care or infant health conditions, rather than maternal birth complications directly impacting the pregnant person’s health. All analyses were conducted using Comprehensive Meta-Analysis Software. We considered patterns in sampling, measurement, and analytic designs. To address publication bias, we examined funnel plots and calculated Egger’s test.

Results:

The review (61 studies; 1,853,282 total participants) revealed four categories of maternal birth complications (i.e., cesarean, preterm birth, pain, laceration). Both the narrative review and meta-analysis support positive associations between maternal birth complications overall and PPD symptoms and diagnoses (odds ratio, OR = 1.47, p < 0.001), with specific associations observed for cesarean deliveries (non-emergency: 1,792,725 participants; OR = 1.30, p < 0.001; emergency: 14,199 participants; OR = 1.48, p = 0.001), preterm birth (39,291 participants; OR = 1.97, p < 0.001), and pain (3,708 participants; OR = 1.75, p = 0.009). ORs were small-to-medium in magnitude. Laceration alone was not significantly associated with PPD (3,356 participants; OR = 1.18, p = 0.692).

Conclusions:

This study expands upon previous research and provides nuanced perspective on the relationship between different types of maternal birth complications and PPD. This review was supported by a Ford Foundation Predoctoral Fellowship and 1F31MH135650-01.
Adverse events after adjuvant radiation therapy for Dupuytren’s disease in the DEPART randomized trial
Authors: Burgess Tanya , Wegener Eric , McClelland Brett , Hunter-Smith David , Werker Paul M.N. , Martin Jarad ,   DEPART Clinical Trial Collaboration
Published: February 2025

This study reports adverse events after adjuvant radiotherapy in patients with Dupuytren’s disease. Patients for planned limited fasciectomy, collagenase injection or percutaneous needle fasciotomy were enrolled in a randomized controlled trial. Sixty patients were randomized to observation or radiotherapy (30 Gy, 10 fractions) starting within 4 days of the procedure. During a follow-up period of up to 4 years, 114 adverse events were reported. Of 102 (89%) mild adverse events, 45 (44.1%) were attributed to radiotherapy. Of the 12 moderate to severe, three were attributed to radiotherapy. By 6 months, most moderate to severe adverse events had resolved. Between 12 and 36 month follow-ups, the only persistent adverse event attributed to radiotherapy was reduced sweating. In this trial of adjuvant radiotherapy for Dupuytren’s disease, adverse events are generally mild and self-limiting, suggesting that adjuvant radiotherapy is well tolerated.

Level of evidence: Level 2, individual RCT
Management of an infected metacarpophalangeal joint replacement with a temporary articulated cement spacer
Authors: Kamiza Michael M. , Halsey Timothy J.
Published: February 2025

We present a case of a 63-year-old woman with an infected metacarpophalangeal arthroplasty, treated with an articulating cement spacer over a K-wire framework. This technique maintained joint movement during the management of the infection, leading to a positive functional outcome.

Level of evidence: V
Inherent immunity and adaptive immunity: Mechanism and role in AECOPD
Authors: Wu Linguangjin , Zhang Erxin , Tu Yadan , Chen Yong , Wang Chenghu , Ren Yi , Fang Bangjiang
Published: February 2025

Acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (AECOPD) is the leading cause of hospitalization and mortality in COPD patients. The occurrence of antibiotic resistance and the progression of non-infectious diseases contribute to poor patient outcomes. Thus, a comprehensive understanding of the mechanisms underlying AECOPD is essential for effective prevention. It is widely acknowledged that the immune system plays a fundamental role in pathogen clearance and the development of inflammation. Immune dysregulation, either due to deficiency or hyperactivity, has been implicated in AECOPD pathogenesis. Therefore, the purpose of this review is to investigate the possible mechanisms underlying dysregulated immune function and disease progression in COPD patients, specifically focusing on the innate and adaptive immune responses. The ultimate aim is to provide new insights for clinical prevention and treatment strategies targeting AECOPD.
Exploration of Aloe vera, Centella asiatica, Green Tea, and Pueraria mirifica Extracts in Modulating Stem Cell-Like Properties for Hair Rejuvenation Through β-Catenin Stabilization and Activation of the Akt Signaling Cascade in Human Dermal Papilla Cells
Authors: Ei Zin Zin , Barrameesangpet Supaporn , Chanvorachote Pithi
Published: February 2025

Objective: Recent advancements in stem cell biology have revealed the potential of natural active compounds to boost hair growth and prevent hair loss by enhancing the stemness of dermal papilla (DP) cells. Methods: The level of upstream stabilized β-catenin was assessed using western blot analysis and immunofluorescence. The stemness was determined by real-time RT-qPCR to examine the mRNA level of stem cell factors and confirm the protein level by immunofluorescence. Results: Our cytotoxicity assay on DP cells treated with various extracts, including AV, CA, GT, PM, and a combination of these extracts (ACGP), indicated no impact on cell viability even at high concentrations (4000 μg/ml). Moreover, the DP cells treated with ACGP showed 1.5-fold high cells proliferation rate compared to single treatment DP cells. Western blot analysis revealed a 1.5-fold increase in the protein expression levels of both pAkt and β-catenin in ACGP-treated DP cells. The results demonstrated that cells treated with the combined extracts (ACGP) exhibited significantly increased mRNA levels of OCT4, NANOG, and SOX2 by 40-, 110-, and 30-fold, respectively, in the downstream stabilize β-catenin pathway for stem cell expression. Corresponding protein levels also increased by 2-, 3-, and 2-fold, respectively, compared to cells treated with each extract individually. Conclusion: These findings revealed the synergistic effect of natural products in stimulating DP stem cells via stabilize β-catenin and enhancing their cellular functions.
Juniperus indica Bertol Extract Combined with 5-Fluorouracil Synergistically Suppresses the Growth of Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma Cells
Authors: Gao Hong-Wei , Chang Kai-Fu , Huang Xiao-Fan , Hung Peng-Yun , Hsieh Ming-Chang , Tsai Nu-Man
Published: February 2025

Background: Esophageal cancer is a prevalent malignancy of the digestive tract with a high incidence rate in Asia. Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) is the most common histological type, accounting for more than 90% of cases. JIB is a plant extract of Juniperus indica Bertol that has been shown to have anti-proliferation effects in nasopharyngeal carcinoma, oral cancer, and melanoma. Objectives: The aim of this study was to investigate the anti-cancer effects and underlying mechanisms of action of JIB in combination with 5-FU in ESCC cells. Methods: The effects of the combination of JIB and 5-FU on cytotoxicity, cell cycle arrest, apoptosis and drug resistance development were explored using CE81T/VGH human ESCC cells. Results: The results showed that JIB synergized the inhibitory effects of 5-FU on cell proliferation via downregulating the AKT/mTOR pathway in CE81T/VGH cells harboring the TP53 exon 8 R273C mutation. The combination treatment of JIB and 5-FU induced cell cycle arrest at G0/G1 and S phases via mediating the levels of CDK4/cyclin D1 and CDK2/cyclin A. Furthermore, JIB combined with 5-FU was more effective in inducing apoptosis by activation of extrinsic (Fas/caspase-8) and intrinsic (Bax/caspase-9) pathways than the use of a single drug. Additionally, JIB attenuated the development of resistance to 5-FU in long-term culture and exhibited enhanced cytotoxicity in bile acid environments. Conclusion: JIB combined with 5-FU synergistically inhibited the ESCC growth and triggered cell cycle arrest and apoptosis. These findings suggest that the combination of JIB and 5-FU may be a potential strategy for the treatment of esophageal cancer.
Impact of Psychosocial Intervention on Career Anxiety among University Students in Nigeria
Authors: Sunday Otu Mkpoikanke , Sefotho Maximus Monaheng
Published: February 2025

This study examines the impact of psychosocial interventions on career anxiety among Nigerian university students, focusing on their unique socioeconomic challenges such as high unemployment and limited job opportunities. It also explores the role of demographic variables in the intervention’s effectiveness. An experimental design was conducted using 306 university students from Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria, was conducted. Participants were selected based on their scores on the University Students’ Career Anxiety Scale and randomly assigned to either the intervention group ( n = 153) or the control group ( n = 153). The intervention comprised 12 sessions over six weeks, focusing on cognitive restructuring, stress management, and career planning. Data were collected at three points: pre-intervention, post-intervention, and six-week follow-up. Analysis of variance and analysis of covariance were used to examine the impact of the intervention and control for demographic variables. The psychosocial intervention significantly reduced career anxiety in the treatment group compared with the control group, with a large effect size at posttest (Cohen’s d = 0.74) and follow-up (Cohen’s d = 0.57). No significant interactions were found between the intervention’s effectiveness and demographic variables, such as gender, age, or academic level. Psychosocial interventions effectively alleviate career anxiety among Nigerian university students and offer long-term benefits. Educational institutions should implement psychosocial interventions to support students in managing career anxiety and making informed career decisions. Future research should focus on tailoring these interventions for specific demographic groups.
The frog hand illusion: Distortion of hand shape in inverted presentation
Authors: Taya Shuichiro , Pasqualotto Achille
Published: February 2025

When a photograph of the back of a hand with the fingers extended to the depth is observed upside-down, the hand appears vertically squashed, with extremely short fingers. The first aim of this study was to quantitatively measure the “frog hand illusion (FHI)”, named after its bizarre appearance, and the second aim was to examine whether the dominant hand affects the strength of FHI. We measured the apparent shortening of the fingers using the method of constant stimuli. The results showed that the fingers of the inverted hand appeared to be shorter than those of the upright hand by about 5% on average. No effect of the dominant hand was observed. We propose the hypothesis that FHI occurs because of the attenuation of perceptual constancy, which might stem from observing the hand image from an atypical viewpoint.
Mental health status of school students in India: The role of school-based family counselling
Authors: Deb Shayana , Deb Sibnath
Published: February 2025

Holistic education that promotes children’s well-being is the core objective of schools. Despite all the sincere efforts by the authorities of most schools across society, with some variations, many school children experience a range of adversities which mostly go unnoticed. This article attempts to highlight some of the major adversities faced by school children up to higher secondary levels in India. A summary of the available secondary literature indicates that school children experience adversities like academic stress, caused by parental pressure, abuse and neglect, including corporal punishment, family violence, social discrimination, anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation and suicide. Evidence also suggests a supportive family environment and positive parent-child relationship minimise adversities and mental health challenges. Mental health support facilities are missing in most of the schools in India. In the given situation, school-based family counselling is recommended, which would benefit school children in addressing the issues they face. Further research that addresses the effectiveness and scalability of school-based mental health programs is needed as well as prioritising child protection as a national agenda.
Cardiac Tamponade as the Initial Presentation of Coexistent Systemic Lupus Erythematosus and Addison’s Disease: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Abu Keshek Abdullah , Shehadeh Mohammad Hakam , Salahaldin Mohammed M. , Qupp Salem K. , Marouf Omar Mohammad , Dallashi Ahmad A.
Published: February 2025

Cardiac tamponade is a rare presentation of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), occurring in less than 1% of cases. Its coexistence with primary adrenal insufficiency (Addison’s disease) represents an even rarer clinical scenario. We present the case of a 28-year-old female who presented with cardiac tamponade as the initial presentation of concurrent SLE and Addison’s disease. Laboratory investigations revealed positive antinuclear and anti-dsDNA antibodies, low complement levels, hyponatremia, and hyperkalemia. Adrenal function tests confirmed primary adrenal insufficiency. Echocardiography identified a large pericardial effusion with cardiac tamponade, necessitating emergent pericardiocentesis. The patient responded well to high-dose glucocorticoids, hydroxychloroquine, and mineralocorticoid replacement therapy. This case highlights the rare and challenging presentation of cardiac tamponade as the initial presentation of the coexistent SLE and Addison’s disease. Prompt recognition and management of this complex scenario are crucial. Clinicians should maintain a high index of suspicion for underlying autoimmune disorders in patients presenting with cardiac tamponade.
Novel SPAST Deletion Mutation in an American Family With Hereditary Spastic Paraplegia: A Case Report
Authors: Bhopatkar Sydney B. , Huang Juebin
Published: February 2025

The diverse group of neurodegenerative disorders known as hereditary spastic paraplegia (HSP) is characterized by spasticity and weakness of the bilateral lower extremity due to degeneration of the corticospinal tract. The pathogenesis of HSP is broad, with autosomal dominant, autosomal recessive, X-linked recessive, mitochondrial inheritance, and de novo mutations reported, along with remarkable heterogeneity of mutations and clinical presentation. Of these, the most common subtype of HSP is HSP type 4 (HSP- SPG4), a result of mutations in the SPAST gene (chromosome 2p22.3) that leads to impaired activity of the microtubule-severing protein spastin. Typically presenting as an uncomplicated, autosomal dominant form of the disease, HSP- SPG4 has been documented worldwide with vast genomic variance across the SPAST gene. Despite common features in clinical phenotypes, a clear link between SPAST gene variants and disease presentation remains vague. Here, we report a novel 26.1 kb deletion in the SPAST gene (del exons 4-7) in a US family with previously undiagnosed HSP- SPG4.