bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Life Cycle Sustainability Assessment of Buildings: A Scientometric Analysis
Authors: Poderytė Ieva , Banaitienė Nerija , Banaitis Audrius
Published: January 2025

The significant environmental impact of the built environment, particularly concerning energy use, carbon emissions, and material consumption, coupled with its economic and social implications, has driven the demand for sustainable buildings. Life Cycle Sustainability Assessment (LCSA) offers a comprehensive approach to evaluating sustainability performance by integrating environmental, economic, and social dimensions across the building life cycle. However, the application of LCSA frameworks in the buildings sector remains limited due to the challenges in harmonizing different sustainability dimensions and addressing methodological inconsistencies. This study employs a scientometric analysis to systematically examine the research landscape on LCSA for buildings. Bibliographic records from the Scopus and Web of Science databases (1999–2024) were systematically analyzed using science mapping techniques and tools, including VOSviewer, CiteSpace, and Gephi. The analysis identifies key research trends, conceptual developments, influential academic sources, and collaboration patterns at the country level. The findings reveal a multi-faceted research landscape characterized by a predominance of environmental assessments, increasing attention to economic and social dimensions, the development of BIM-related methodologies, and emerging trend towards dynamic LCSA. Persistent barriers include insufficient standardization of methodologies, limited data availability, and the fragmented incorporation of the environmental, economic, and social dimensions of sustainability. The findings emphasize the need for advancing LCSA frameworks to achieve more effective integration of the triple bottom line, enabling robust decision-making and advancing sustainability in the built environment.
Study on the Inhibition Effect of Fly Ash on Alkali–Silica Reaction and Its Influence on Building Energy Performance
Authors: Chen Lulu , Wei Lili , Zheng Jiang , Zhou Junming
Published: January 2025

Cracks and other defects in concrete will affect its durability, thermal insulation effect, and energy consumption. ASR is one of the common causes of concrete cracks. In this study, mortar specimens modified with fly ash were prepared using the mortar bar rapid method, and the inhibition effect of ASR in two alkali environments and the building energy efficiency characteristics were comparatively analyzed. SEM, EDS, and XRD were used to analyze the microstructure, elemental distribution, and products in the specimens’ interfacial transition zone comparatively. The results show that a replacement amount of 20–30% fly ash can restrain ASR expansion and maintain high mechanical strength. In both alkaline environments, K and Al are enriched in the interface transition zone and combine with SiO2 and Al2O3 to form a stable framework aluminosilicate mineral. In addition to the inhibition effect of fly ash on ASR, the external wall heat dissipation flux decreased from 132.6 W/m2 to 117.6 W/m2, a decrease of 11.3%, and the overall envelope heat dissipation flux decreased by 9.2%, significantly reducing building energy consumption. This study provides a new perspective for the development of building energy-saving materials and helps green buildings and sustainable development.
Investigation of Welding-Induced Residual Stresses in a Herringbone Column Using the Blind Hole Technique: An Experimental and Numerical Study
Authors: Ren Jianbo , Yue Yanchao , Zhang Xiangwei , Yang Zheng , Liu Zhihang , Dong Yuanyuan , Ma Jihao , Liu Chenlu , Ma Jianjun
Published: January 2025

The current research investigates the effect of residual stresses from welding on the stability of steel structures, particularly the herringbone column undulating cross-truss structure in the Zhengzhou New International Exhibition Center project. Residual stresses at 30 key points were measured using the blind hole method, and the temperature and stress fields under thermal coupling were analyzed using numerical simulation techniques. The measured residual stresses of the welded herringbone columns are generally higher than the theoretical calculated values, with the relative error of most measuring points being less than 10% and the minimum difference being 0.98 MPa. It was confirmed that the welding quality meets the design and acceptance standards. Through a combination of experimental measurements and numerical simulations, this study provides valuable reference information for the construction of similar projects. The results indicate that the residual stresses in the herringbone columns are controllable, ensuring the overall safety and reliability of the structure.
Assessment of the Conditions of Anchor Bolts Grouted with Resin and Cement Through Impact-Echo Testing and Advanced Spectrum Analysis
Authors: Zatar Wael , Xiao Feng , Chen Gang , Nghiem Hien
Published: January 2025

Anchor bolts, such as rock bolts and concrete anchors, are widely used in civil, geotechnical, and mining engineering for anchorage and ground support. They are used in retaining walls, dry docks, dams, mines, and prestressed concrete structures. Evaluating the grouting condition of anchor bolts is essential to ensure the safety of these applications. Spectrum techniques have been used to develop non-destructive methods for estimating the grouting quality of grouted anchor bolts. The spectrum methods include fast Fourier transform, time–frequency analysis, wavelet transform analysis, and empirical mode decomposition. In this study, we introduce the parameter-optimized variational mode decomposition (VMD) method for the spectrum analysis of impact echo signals of anchor bolts. This method overcomes the difficulty of conventional spectrum methods that cannot separate highly coupled natural modes for advanced analysis. The parameter-optimized VMD method enables the generation of a new evaluation index for quantifying bolt grouting conditions, which has the potential to significantly enhance the quality evaluation of anchor bolts compared with conventional analysis of natural frequencies. This study uses impact response to establish a new benchmark for the integrity diagnosis of anchor bolts, paving the way for more accurate and reliable safety assessments.
How Building Information Modeling Technology Supports Safety on Construction Sites: The Case Study of a Water Reservoir in Italy
Authors: De Cet Giulia , Miazzi Natasha , Paparella Rossana , Boso Daniela P.
Published: January 2025

Workplace safety, particularly in the construction industry, is a moral and legal imperative, prioritizing the protection of workers’ health and well-being. In Italy, Legislative Decree 81/08 (and subsequent modifications) serves as a regulatory framework for workplace safety, defining the duties of employers and employees and promoting accident prevention measures. Building information modeling technology, which has revolutionized the global construction industry by offering an integrated approach to design, construction, and management through intelligent digital models, has only recently started gaining traction in Italy as part of Industry 4.0. This article examines the potential of integrating the current prevention strategies with BIM technology to optimize safety design on construction sites. A case study demonstrates the use of the BIM software REVIT to model a water reservoir for an aqueduct, including structural and plant components, the surrounding context, and proposed construction site organization. The research methodology involves creating a contextualized 3D model to support preliminary safety assessments, work process organization, and the drafting of a safety and coordination plan. Through detailed analysis and critical discussion, this work contributes to understanding how the interaction of regulations and BIM technology can improve construction site safety, offering insights that are applicable beyond the Italian context to the global construction industry.
Relationships for Women with Breast Cancer Among Extraversion and Neuroticism Personality, Stress, Demoralization, Sleep Disturbance, and Psychological Well-Being: A Structural Equation Model
Authors: Yeh Ming-Hsin , Li Ren-Hau
Published: January 2025

Objectives: According to the personality five-factor theory (FFT), this study explored a structural equation model for women with breast cancer involving variables, including extraversion and neuroticism, post-breast-cancer stress, demoralization, sleep disturbances, and psychological well-being (PWB). Methods: A total of 351 women with breast cancer were recruited from mid-Taiwan for the cross-sectional questionnaire survey. Results: In this model, extraversion had direct effects on demoralization (−0.21), sleep disturbances (−0.16), and PWB (0.36); neuroticism had direct effects on post-breast-cancer stress (0.28), demoralization (0.12), and sleep disturbances (0.19); post-breast-cancer stress had direct effects on demoralization (0.71) and PWB (0.38); demoralization had direct effects on sleep disturbances (0.33) and PWB (−0.75). Accordingly, extraversion had a higher direct influence on demoralization than neuroticism (−0.21 vs. 0.12); however, neuroticism correlated with demoralization more than extraversion with demoralization (0.36 vs. −0.28). Neuroticism had a higher direct influence on sleep disturbances than extraversion on sleep disturbances. With regards to indirect influences, post-breast-cancer stress partially mediated the path from neuroticism to demoralization. Demoralization completely mediated the path from post-breast-cancer stress to sleep disturbances and partially mediated the path from extraversion to sleep disturbances. Moreover, demoralization and post-breast-cancer stress together completely mediated the path from neuroticism to PWB. Furthermore, a suppression effect occurred, making the influence from post-breast-cancer stress to PWB positive, which seemed to characterize post-traumatic growth; meanwhile, the suppression enforced the negative effect of demoralization on PWB. Conclusions: Post-breast-cancer stress and demoralization play important roles in clinical counseling for survivors of women with breast cancer.
Robotic Liver Resection for Hepatocellular Carcinoma: A Multicenter Case Series
Authors: Caringi Silvio , Delvecchio Antonella , Conticchio Maria , Ratti Francesca , Magistri Paolo , Belli Andrea , Ceccarelli Graziano , Izzo Francesco , Spampinato Marcello Giuseppe , De’Angelis Nicola , Pessaux Patrick , Piardi Tullio , Di Benedetto Fabrizio , Aldrighetti Luca , Memeo Riccardo
Published: January 2025

Background: Liver resection is the standard treatment for resectable hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The advent of robotic surgery has extended its application in liver surgery, reducing post-operative complications without compromising oncological safety. This study is a retrospective series with the aim of analyzing the preoperative patient’s and tumor’s characteristics and evaluating intraoperative and post-operative data in terms of hospital stay, complications, and oncological radicality. Methods: Data were collected from a multicenter retrospective database that includes 1070 consecutive robotic liver resections (RLRs) performed in nine European hospital centers from 2011 to 2023. Of the entire series, 343 liver resections were performed for HCC. Results: A total of 247 patients (72.3%) had mono-focal lesions. Major hepatectomies and anatomical resections have been perfomed in 87% and 55% of patients, respectively. All 17 conversions (4.95%) were to the open approach. The operative mean time was 239.56 min and the estimated blood loss was 229.45 mL. The overall post-operative complication rate was 22.74%, but severe complications occurred in 4.08% of patients and one of them (0.29%) was reoperated on. The mean hospital stay was 5.82 days with a mean ICU stay of 0.9 days. Twenty-six resections (7.6%) were R1 parenchymal. Forty-six patients (4.08%) were readmitted to the hospital within 90 days after discharge and seventy-eight patients (22.74%) had disease recurrence. Total deaths included 36 (10.5%) patients with a 90-day mortality of 0.9%. Conclusions: Robotic liver resection for HCC is feasible and safe when performed in experienced centers by surgeons who have completed the learning curve.
The Detection of Lung Cancer Cell Profiles in Mediastinal Lymph Nodes Using a Hematological Analyzer and Flow Cytometry Method
Authors: Kwiecień Iwona , Rutkowska Elżbieta , Raniszewska Agata , Sokołowski Rafał , Bednarek Joanna , Jahnz-Różyk Karina , Rzepecki Piotr
Published: January 2025

The presence of metastases in mediastinal lymph nodes (LNs) is essential for planning lung cancer treatment and assessing anticancer immune responses. The aim of the study was to assess LNs for the presence of neoplastic cells and evaluate lung cancer-selected antigen expression. LN aspirates were obtained during an EBUS/TBNA procedure. The cells were analyzed using a hematological analyzer and flow cytometry. It was possible to indicate the presence of cells characterized by high fluorescence connected with high metabolic activity using a hematological analyzer and to determine their non-hematopoietic origin using flow cytometry. Using these methods together, we detected very quickly a high proportion of cancer cells in LNs. We noticed that it was possible to determine a high expression of EpCAM, TTF-1, Ki67, cytokeratin, HER, and differences between non-small-cell (NSCLC) and small-cell lung cancer (SCLC) for the antigens MUC-1, CD56, HLA-DR, CD39, CD184, PD-L1, PD-L2 and CTLA-4 on tumor cells. We report, for the first time, that the detection of tumor cells in LNs with the expression of specific antigens is easy to evaluate using a hematological analyzer and flow cytometry in EBUS/TBNA samples. Such precise characteristics of non-hematopoietic cells in LNs may be of great diagnostic importance in the detection of micrometastases.
68Ga-DOTATATE PET/CT in the Initial Staging of Well-Differentiated Gastroenteropancreatic and Non-Gastroenteropancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumors: Results of a Prospective Registry
Authors: Metser Ur , Kulanthaivelu Roshini , Duder Julia , Hinzpeter Ricarda , Singh Simron , Wong Rebecca , Myrehaug Sten , Gray Daryl , Veit-Haibach Patrick , Singnurkar Amit , Li Xuan , Ezzat Shereen
Published: January 2025

Background and Objectives: At diagnosis, the initial staging of well-differentiated neuroendocrine tumors (WD NETs) aids in treatment planning. The somatostatin receptor (SSTR)-PET has been recommended for staging of WD NETs although limited data are available on its impact on non-gastroeneteropancreatic (GEP) NETs. The main purpose of this study was to compare the stage migration after the addition of SSTR-PET to the workup of patients at the initial staging of GEP NETs to those with non-GEP NETs, and its potential impact on patient management. Methods: This prospective study included patients with WD NETs at initial staging. Demographic data, results of conventional and SSTR-PET staging, and SUVmax were recorded. Three panels of experts assessed the potential impact of SSTR-PET to management. Results: There were 482 patients, including 376 with gastroenteropancreatic (GEP) NETs and 106 non-GEP NETs with a median SUVmax of 34.7 [Q1, Q3: 22.8, 59.1]) and 19.0 [Q1, Q3: 7.9, 39.8]), respectively; p < 0.001. The discordant M-stage was recorded in 111/473 patients (23.5%). PET suggested a higher stage in 78/369 GEP NETs (21.1%), including the detection of extrahepatic metastatic disease in 42/114 (36.8%) patients with liver metastases only on CI. For non-GEP NETs, PET suggested a higher stage in 10/104 (9.6%) and CI suggested a higher stage in 15/104 (14.4%), with CI detecting liver metastases more frequently. The potential impact to management for patients with discordant M-stage was scored as moderate to high between 57/101 (56.4%) and 79/101 (78.2%) of patients. Conclusions: One in five patients are upstaged following SSTR-PET, more frequently with GEP NETs than others. SSTR-PET identifies extrahepatic metastatic disease in >1/3 of patients with presumed liver-only metastases on CI. Stage migration following SSTR-PET may result in frequent moderate or significant management change.
Survival Impact of Robotic-Assisted Laparoscopy (RAL) vs. Conventional Laparoscopy (LPS) in the Treatment of Endometrial Cancer
Authors: Delso Vanesa , Hoyo Rafael Sánchez-del , Sánchez-Barderas Lucía , Gracia Myriam , Baquedano Laura , Martínez-Maestre María A. , Fasero María , Coronado Pluvio J.
Published: January 2025

Objective: This study aimed to assess the impact of minimally invasive surgery (MIS) on survival rates in women diagnosed with endometrial cancer (EC). Methods: A retrospective cohort of 723 women who underwent MIS for EC was analyzed, with 468 having conventional laparoscopy (LPS) and 255 undergoing robotic-assisted laparoscopy (RAL). Sociodemographic features, tumor characteristics, and survival rates were examined for the entire cohort and in a propensity score-matched model. Results: In the overall sample, women who underwent RAL were older, had higher BMI, more comorbidities, and more aggressive tumors. After matching for age, BMI, comorbidities, ASA score, histological type, grade, myometrial invasion, LVSI, and FIGO stage, 482 patients (241 matched pairs) were selected. Disease-free survival (DFS) HR: 1, overall survival (OS) HR: 0.9, and specific survival related to EC (SS) HR: 0.15 were similar between the LPS and RAL groups. Conclusions: These findings suggest that the choice of surgical approach (robotic or laparoscopic) does not impact survival outcomes when matched in homogeneous groups.
Tazemetostat, a Selective EZH2 Inhibitor, in Combination with Pembrolizumab for Recurrent or Metastatic Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma: A Phase 1 Trial
Authors: Oppelt Peter J. , Puram Sidharth V. , Liu Jingxia , Ley Jessica C. , Adkins Douglas
Published: January 2025

Objectives: The primary aim of this phase 1 trial is to establish the recommended phase 2 dose (RP2D) of tazemetostat given with a fixed dose of pembrolizumab in patients with recurrent or metastatic head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (RM-HNSCCs). Methods: A 3 + 3 dose-escalation phase 1 design was used to assess three dose-levels of tazemetostat (400, 600, and 800 mg orally, twice daily) with pembrolizumab (200 mg intravenously). Cycle 1 was 35 days (tazemetostat days 1–35; pembrolizumab day 15). Subsequent cycles were 21 days (tazemetostat days 1–21; pembrolizumab day 1). Dose-limiting toxicity (DLT), assessed during cycle 1, was defined as study-drug-related grade 4 neutropenia or thrombocytopenia, grade 3 febrile neutropenia, or grade 3–4 non-hematologic adverse events (AEs). Patients had to have completed cycle 1 to be evaluable for the DLT assessment; otherwise, an equal number of additional patients were enrolled. The RP2D was defined as the highest dose level in which zero of three or less than or equal to one of six patients experienced a DLT. Results: Twelve patients were enrolled: three on 400 mg, three on 600 mg, and six on the 800 mg dose level of tazemetostat. Three patients on the 800 mg dose level did not complete cycle 1 and were not evaluable for DLT. In the other nine patients, DLTs did not occur during cycle 1. In all 12 patients, the most common AEs included anemia (10 patients), fatigue (eight), and hyponatremia (seven). Conclusions: Among the patients with RM-HNSCCs, the RP2D of tazemetostat was 800 mg and administered twice daily when given with pembrolizumab.
Sustainable Synthesis of Zirconium Dioxide (ZrO2) Nanoparticles Utilizing Asphodelus fistulosus Extract for Congo Red Degradation
Authors: Alkhalifa Rand A. N. , Albadri Abuzar E. A. E. , Ali Reham , Alluhayb Abdullah H. , Younis Alaa M. , Saleh Sayed M.
Published: January 2025

This research presents a green approach to synthesizing zirconium oxide (ZrO2) nanoparticles using an Asphodelus fistulosus plant extract as a reducing and stabilizing agent. The synthesized ZrO2 nanoparticles were characterized using various advanced techniques. The XRD pattern provides different forms of ZrO2, like tetragonal and cubic forms, and the results confirmed the successful formation of crystalline ZrO2 nanoparticles with a definite morphology. The XPS data exhibit that the bioactive chemicals present in the extract, including polyphenols, flavonoids, and reducing sugars, perform the functions of reducing and capping agents. Additionally, CR dye molecules may create hydrogen bonds with these surface moieties, which are approved by FTIR. These interactions may assist in aligning dye molecules with catalytically active regions on ZrO2 surfaces and may interact with photogenerated species. The catalytic activity of the synthesized ZrO2 nanoparticles was evaluated for the degradation of Congo red dye under ultraviolet irradiation. The nanoparticles exhibited excellent photocatalytic activity, degrading a significant amount of the dye within a short period. Various parameters were investigated to optimize the photodegradation process, including irradiation time, catalyst dosage, pH, and initial dye concentration. The optimal conditions were determined to be a pH of 7, a catalyst loading of 20 mg/L, and an irradiation time of 75 min, resulting in a remarkable ≈92% degradation efficiency. This green synthesis method offers a sustainable and eco-friendly alternative to conventional chemical methods for producing ZrO2 nanoparticles, which have potential applications in environmental remediation.
Piezoelectric-Driven Fenton System Based on Bismuth Ferrite Nanosheets for Removal of N-Acetyl-para-aminophenol in Aqueous Environments
Authors: Zhou Chi , Jing Shenglong , Miao Teng , Zhou Nianlai , Zhang Hang , Zhang Yi , Ge Lin , Liu Wencheng , Yang Zixin
Published: January 2025

Emerging pollutants, such as N-acetyl-para-aminophenol, pose significant challenges to environmental sustainability, and Bi2Fe2O2 (BFO) nanomaterials are an emerging class of piezoelectric materials. This study presents a novel piezoelectric-driven Fenton system based on Bi2Fe4O9 nanosheets for the efficient degradation of organic pollutants. BFO nanosheets with varying thicknesses were synthesized, and their piezoelectric properties were confirmed through piezoresponse force microscopy and heavy metal ion reduction experiments. The piezoelectric electrons generated within the BFO nanosheets facilitate the in situ production of hydrogen peroxide, which in turn drives the Fenton-like reaction. Furthermore, the piezoelectric electrons enhance the redox cycling of iron in the Fenton process, boosting the overall catalytic efficiency. The energy band structure of BFO nanosheets is well-suited for this process, enabling efficient hydrogen peroxide generation and promoting Fe3+ reduction. The findings demonstrate that thinner BFO nanosheets exhibit superior piezoelectric activity, leading to enhanced catalytic performance. Additionally, the incorporation of gold nanodots onto BFO nanosheets further boosts their piezocatalytic efficiency, particularly in the reduction of Cr (VI). The system exhibited robust oxidative capacity, stability, and recyclability, with reactive oxygen species (ROS) verified via electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy. Overall, BFO nanosheets, with their optimal energy band structure, self-supplied hydrogen peroxide, and enhanced Fe3+ reduction, represent a promising, sustainable solution for advanced oxidation processes in wastewater treatment and other applications.
Nuclear Envelope Dynamics in Dictyostelium Amoebae
Authors: Gräf Ralph , Batsios Petros , Grafe Marianne , Meyer Irene , Mitic Kristina
Published: January 2025

In the last decades, the study of many nuclear envelope components in Dictyostelium amoebae has revealed conserved mechanisms of nuclear envelope dynamics that root back unexpectedly deep into the eukaryotic tree of life. In this review, we describe the state of the art in nuclear envelope research in this organism starting from early work on nuclear pore complexes to characterization of the first true lamin in a non-metazoan organism and its associated nuclear envelope transmembrane proteins, such as the HeH-family protein Src1 and the LINC complex protein Sun1. We also describe the dynamic processes during semi-closed mitosis, including centrosome insertion into the nuclear envelope, and processes involved in the restoration of nuclear envelope permeability around mitotic exit and compare them to the situation in cells with open or fully closed mitosis.
The Effects of Rhythm Jump Training on the Rhythmic Reproduction Ability in Jumping and Agility in Elementary School Soccer Players
Authors: Kato Yudai , Watanabe Hiroyuki , Kawabata Masashi , Mamorita Noritaka , Muroi Ryota , Tsuda Yukiyasu , Uchida Yuto , Tsuihiji Yusuke , Mogi Koharu , Watanabe Yuto , Sano Yuto , Takahira Naonobu
Published: January 2025

Background/Objectives: This study aimed to elucidate the effect of rhythm jump training on the rhythm and motor abilities of elementary school students to provide insights into its potential benefits for their physical performance and coordination. Methods: A non-randomized controlled trial was conducted involving 101 elementary school students (grades 1–6) attending a soccer school. Participants were divided into a rhythm jump group (n = 51, age: 7.5 years, height: 126.0 cm, weight: 25.7 kg) and a control group (n = 39, age: 8.0 years, height: 128.8 cm, weight: 26.5 kg) based on their practice venue. The rhythm jump group engaged in 10 min of rhythm jump at the beginning of soccer practice once a week over 8 weeks (intervention period), while the control group continued regular soccer training. Measurements included rhythmic reproduction ability during jumps, Pro Agility Test (PAT) values, and Reactive Strength Index (RSI) scores, assessed before and after the intervention period. Rhythmic reproduction ability was measured by comparing the data of the timing of jumps to 4- and 8-beat audio tracks. These were analyzed using repeated-measures analysis of variance, with significance set at p < 0.05. Results: Significant interactions were observed between 8-beat rhythmic reproduction ability and PAT values. In 8-beat rhythm deviation, a significant decrease was observed in the rhythm jump group (0.048 s) compared to that in the control group (0.013 s) (p < 0.01). PAT time significantly decreased in the rhythm jump group (0.18 s) compared to the control group (−0.25 s) (p < 0.01). There was no observed interaction between 4-beat rhythmic reproduction ability and RSI. Conclusions: This study revealed that rhythm jump training can be effective even with short sessions and infrequent practice, emphasizing its efficiency. The short-term rhythm jump intervention improved the 8-beat rhythmic reproduction ability and agility of elementary school students.
Use of the Children’s Observation and Severity Tool (COAST), an Adaptation of the Paediatric Early Warning Score, in the Emergency Department as a Predictor for Hospital Admission: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Truell James , Neville-Smith Sara , Hutton Hayley
Published: January 2025

Background: Paediatric Early Warning Scores (PEWS) are designed to detect the clinically unwell or deteriorating child within a hospital setting. There is a drive within the NHS to standardise this scoring system across various settings. According to the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health, there is currently a national review on triage tools used within emergency departments; however, evidence to date is scarce. Within the Chelsea and Westminster NHS Foundation Trust, we utilise both the Manchester Triage System (MTS) and the Children’s Observation and Severity tool (COAST), an adaption of PEWS, in our Paediatric Emergency Department (PED). Methods: This retrospective cohort study is the largest of its kind and was performed to validate COAST, compare it to MTS and determine if it is a good predictor of hospital admission. Demographic data, initial MTS scores, initial COAST scores and admission outcomes of 41,030 paediatric emergency department attendances were analysed, encompassing 27,196 unique patients. Results: Results demonstrated that high COAST scores on arrival are strongly correlated with hospital admission, with positive predictive values of 59.52% with COAST of ≥3 and 100% for with score threshold of ≥5. In comparison with the MTS, COAST is better at predicting admission. Conclusions: We conclude that COAST performs well in correlating to and thus predicting paediatric hospital admission outcome from the PED.
Tailoring Biologic Therapies for Pediatric Severe Asthma: A Comprehensive Approach
Authors: Chaverri Repáraz Claudia María , Lacalle Fabo Esther , Erroz Ferrer María , Gimeno-Castillo María , Castro-Garrido Isabel , Ibarzabal-Arregi Miren , González Arza Nerea , Viguria Natividad , Moreno-Galarraga Laura
Published: January 2025

Introduction: Biologic therapies have revolutionized the management of severe asthma in pediatrics, offering targeted options for specific inflammatory pathways. This study aimed to review the current indications and availability of biologics approved for pediatric use as of January 2025 and to analyze the clinical experience of a tertiary center in managing this condition. Methods: A comprehensive review of the biologics available for treating severe asthma in children was conducted, highlighting their indications and key characteristics. Additionally, a retrospective analysis was conducted on the experience of the Pediatric Severe Asthma Unit at the University Hospital of Navarra in utilizing these therapies between 2015 and 2025, with a focus on treatment distribution and reasons for switching biologics. Results: As of January 2025, the biologics available for pediatric use include omalizumab, mepolizumab, dupilumab, tezepelumab, and benralizumab, each with specific indications and different administration profiles. At the analyzed center, the distribution of biologics was as follows: omalizumab (27%), mepolizumab (27%), dupilumab (37%), and tezepelumab (9%). At the same center, the biologic distribution 10 years earlier was 100% omalizumab. Therapy changes and switches were primarily related to clinical response, posology, and comorbidities. Conclusions: This study emphasizes the importance of individualized management in pediatric severe asthma, based on continuous evaluation and appropriate biologic selection according to the clinical characteristics of each patient. It also highlights the need to develop specific guidelines for adjusting, switching, and discontinuing these therapies.
The Association Between Perinatal Pharmacologic Treatments and Spontaneous Intestinal Perforation in Extremely Preterm Infants: A Propensity Score Matching Study
Authors: Cheng Wei-Hsin , Tu Lo-Hsuan , Chiang Ming-Chou , Chen Yu-Ning , Wu Wei-Hung , Hsu Kai-Hsiang
Published: January 2025

Background: The impact of perinatal pharmacologic agents on spontaneous intestinal perforation (SIP) in extremely low-birthweight (ELBW, <1000 g) preterm infants remains inconclusive based on findings from retrospective cohort or case–control studies. This study aims to address this uncertainty by using propensity score matching (PSM) to reduce bias. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed ELBW infants in our unit between 2014 and 2023 to identify SIP cases. Confirmed through medical notes, surgical consultation, and author review, each SIP case was matched at a 1:3 ratio using propensity scores on factors including the gestational age (GA), birthweight, gender, and birth year. Pharmacologic agents commonly given antenatally and postnatally were analyzed. Only medications that were started 24 h before the onset of SIP or the corresponding age (PSM-controls) were included. Results: A total of 858 ELBW infants were reviewed, 28 SIP cases (GA 25.3 ± 2.1 weeks, BW 735 ± 167 g) were identified, and 84 PSM-controls were matched. The SIP cases received hydrocortisone (25% (7/28) vs. 9.5% (8/84), p = 0.037) and combined inotropic agents (17.9% (5/28) vs. 2.4% (2/84), p = 0.020) to a significantly greater extent. No differences were observed in the use of other medications. In logistic regression, the use of hydrocortisone and combined inotropes remained independent risks for SIP, with ORs (95% CIs) of 3.4 (1.1–10.9) and 2.1 (1.2–3.8), respectively. Conclusions: This first PSM-based study supported postnatal hydrocortisone and combined inotrope use as independent risks for SIP in ELBW infants. Clinicians should be aware of these risks and remain vigilant for SIP when administering hydrocortisone and inotropes.
Case Study of a Broken Instrument in a Primary Tooth and Literature Review
Authors: Nakano Masashi , Akitomo Tatsuya , Ogawa Masashi , Kametani Mariko , Usuda Momoko , Kusaka Satoru , Mitsuhata Chieko , Nomura Ryota
Published: January 2025

Background: Root canal treatment is an important element of dental treatment, and broken instruments are one cause of endodontic treatment failure. Broken instruments are rarely reported in primary teeth because of their inherently wider and relatively straighter root canals. We describe a case of a patient with a broken instrument in a primary tooth and reviewed the literature across three databases. Case presentation: A boy aged 7 years and 2 months was referred to our hospital because of pain persisting despite multiple dental treatments. Radiographic examination revealed a broken instrument in the maxillary right primary second molar. The patient experienced dental fear, so the treatment proceeded with the use of behavioral management and nitrous oxide, after which his pain disappeared. At the age of 9 years and 2 months, eruption of the successive permanent teeth was confirmed, and no pathological findings were observed except enamel hypoplasia. We undertook a literature review across three databases and found only two articles about broken instruments in primary teeth, neither of which described the eruption of the permanent teeth. All three cases involved primary molars. Conclusions: We removed a broken instrument from the root of a primary molar and performed root canal treatment, resulting in a good outcome for the primary molar until it was replaced with successive permanent teeth. Although rare, broken instruments in the roots of primary molars do occur, and care should be taken during root canal treatment of primary molars.
Enhancement of Ferroelectric Properties of Ni-Substituted Pb2Fe2O5 Thin Films Synthesized by Reactive Magnetron Sputtering Deposition
Authors: Beklešovas Benas , Stankus Vytautas , Iljinas Aleksandras , Balčiūnaitė Ugnė
Published: January 2025

Lead ferrite Pb2Fe2O5 (PFO) is a potential multiferroic material due its exhibition of ferroelectric and ferromagnetic properties. The effects of the substitution with nickel and synthesis temperature on the structural, morphological, and ferroelectric properties of lead ferrite thin films were investigated through the use of reactive magnetron sputtering deposition. Nickel loading concentrations were systematically varied (3%, 5%, and 10% by wt.%). X-ray diffraction analysis confirmed the formation of Ni-substituted distorted PFO lattices, while scanning electron microscopy and energy-dispersive spectroscopy indicated a uniform elemental distribution and surface morphology. Polarization vs. electrical field (P−E) measurements showed improved remnant polarization (Pr) with increasing Ni content and synthesis temperatures, achieving a maximum Pr of 66.7 µC/cm2 at 5 wt.% The Ni loading and substrate (Pt/Ti/SiO2/Si, Nanoshel Company, Cheshire, UK) temperature were 600 °C. These findings suggest that optimizing the synthesis parameters such as temperature and substitution content is crucial for controlling the ferroelectric properties of PFO thin films.
Bioinformatics-Driven Structural and Pharmacological Analysis of SLITRK1 in Tourette Syndrome: Impact of S656M Mutation Using Molecular Dynamics, Docking, and Reinforcement Learning
Authors: Aktaş Emre , İslim Alirıza , Kırboğa Kevser Kübra , Yıldız Derya , Özgentürk Nehir Özdemir , Rudrapal Mithun , Khan Johra , Achar Raghu Ram , Silina Ekaterina , Manturova Natalia , Stupin Victor
Published: January 2025

SLITRK1 is a critical protein involved in neural development and is associated with various neurological disorders, including Tourette Syndrome. This study investigates the structural dynamics, intrinsic disorder propensity, and pharmacological interactions of SLITRK1, with a particular focus on amino acid substitutions and their pathological implications. A comprehensive computational framework was employed, including intrinsic disorder region analysis, transmembrane topology predictions, and stability assessments of SLITRK1 variants. Integrated with reinforcement learning (RL), molecular docking and dynamics simulations were used to evaluate the pharmacotherapeutic potential of drugs commonly prescribed for Tourette Syndrome, such as Pimozide, Aripiprazole, Risperidone, and Haloperidol. Structural analyses revealed that the S656M mutation significantly alters SLITRK1’s 3D conformation, biological functions, and drug binding profiles. Among the tested drugs, Aripiprazole exhibited the highest binding affinity across various SLITRK1 variants, with reinforcement learning highlighting a notable interaction with the S659K mutation. These findings were supported by Ramachandran plot and molecular dynamics analyses, which identified mutation-induced structural and dynamic changes. This study provides an integrative analysis of SLITRK1, offering insights into its role in Tourette Syndrome and laying a foundation for targeted therapeutic strategies to mitigate SLITRK1-related neurological disorders.
Cybercrime Resilience in the Era of Advanced Technologies: Evidence from the Financial Sector of a Developing Country
Authors: Ali Adeel , Shah Mahmood , Foster Monika , Alraja Mansour Naser
Published: January 2025

Technological advancements have helped all sectors to evolve. This advancement has widened the cyberspace and attack surface, which has led to a drastic increase in cyberattacks. Cybersecurity solutions have also evolved. The advancement is relatively slower in developing countries. However, the financial sector in developing countries has shown resistance to cyberattacks. This paper investigates the reasons for this resistance. Despite using legacy systems, the banking sector in Pakistan has demonstrated resistance to cyberattacks. The research used a qualitative approach. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with nine cybersecurity experts in the banking sector to illustrate the reasons for this cybersecurity resistance. The research focused on cybersecurity experts in the banking sector, recognizing that this industry is particularly prone to cyberattacks on a global scale. The study utilised a thematic analysis technique to find resistance factors. The analysis suggests that the opportunity cost of cyberattacks and lower attack surface in developing countries like Pakistan are the main reasons for the lower financial losses. The findings of this research will encourage the adoption of advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) for cybersecurity in developing countries’ banking and financial sectors.
Portable Analyses of Strategic Metal-Rich Minerals Using pXRF and pLIBS: Methodology and Database Development
Authors: Jatteau Marjolène , Cauzid Jean , Fabre Cécile , Voudouris Panagiotis , Soulamidis Georgios , Tarantola Alexandre
Published: January 2025

Strategic metals are indispensable for meeting the needs of modern society. It is then necessary to reassess the potential of such metals in Europe. For the exploration of strategic metals, portable XRF (X-Ray Fluorescence) and LIBS (Laser Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy) are powerful techniques allowing their multi-elementary analysis. This paper presents a database providing more than 2000 pXRF data and more than 4000 pLIBS spectra acquired on minerals from the Mineralogy and Petrology Museum of National and Kapodistrian University of Athens (NKUA), selected based on their potential in bearing strategic metals. The combination of these two portable techniques, along with expanding dataset on strategic metal-rich minerals, provides valuable insights into strategic metal affinities and demonstrates the effectiveness of portable tools for exploring strategic raw materials. Indeed, such database allows to strengthen the knowledge on strategic metals by producing statistic and chemometric analyses (e.g., boxplot, PCA, PLS) on their distribution.
A 6-Year Retrospective Study in Surgery Patients with Thyroid Diseases in Mureș County, Romania, Before and During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Cătană Ramona Teodora , Nechifor-Boila Adela , Zăhan Ancuța , Militaru Andreea Deborah , Radu Georgian-Nicolae , Borda Angela
Published: January 2025

Background/Objectives: In this study, we aimed to assess the impact of the COVID-19 (Coronavirus Disease 2019) pandemic period on the time trend prevalence of thyroid pathology in a university hospital in Romania. Methods: We performed a 6-year retrospective study (2017–2022) including all patients who underwent thyroid surgery, registered in the Pathology Department, Emergency County Hospital, Târgu-Mureș, Romania (n = 971). Thyroid lesions were grouped into three major categories: (1) benign, non-tumoral; (2) benign, tumoral; and (3) malignant, tumoral. To assess the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the annual rate of thyroid surgeries and thyroid pathology, data were analyzed in comparison: before COVID-19 (2017–2019) versus the COVID-19 (2020–2022) period. Results: A significant decrease in the mean number of thyroid specimens per year was observed in the COVID-19 period compared to the previous period (131 versus 192 cases, p = 0.0023). Thyroid benign lesions were the most frequent, but their prevalence was significantly lower during the pandemic period (50.8%) compared to the previous period (58.6%) (p = 0.017). Benign tumors were rare, revealing similar occurrence rates in both periods. By contrast, the annual rate of malignant tumors increased significantly during the COVID-19 period (26.3% versus 35.4%, p = 0.002), the most common histopathological type being papillary thyroid carcinoma. Conclusions: Along with the COVID-19 pandemic (starting in the year 2020), due to reduced access to medical investigations, many thyroid cancers remained unoperated in our hospital. Consequently, this has led to an increased prevalence of malignant cases in the years that came after.
Efficacy of Prostate Biopsies via Transperineal and Transrectal Routes for Significant Prostate Cancer Detection: A Multicenter Paired–Matched Study
Authors: Paesano Nahuel , Picola Natàlia , Muñoz-Rodriguez Jesús , Ruiz-Plazas Xavier , Muñoz-Rivero Marta V. , Celma Ana , García-de Manuel Gemma , Miró Berta , Servian Pol , Abascal José M. , Trilla Enrique , Morote Juan
Published: January 2025

Background: A transperineal approach to prostate biopsy is now recommended to reduce the risk of infectious complications associated with the transrectal route. Our aim is to compare the efficacy of transrectal- and transperineal-guided biopsies involving the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of index lesions in detecting significant prostate cancer (sPCas), and to evaluate the role of systematic biopsies. Methods: In a prospective and multicenter trial conducted in an opportunistic early detection program for sPCa in Catalonia (Spain), between 2021 and 2023, 4029 men suspected of having PCa underwent multiparametric MRI followed by guided and systematic biopsies. From this cohort, we retrospectively selected 1376 men with reports of the size and localization of their index lesions. A matched group of 325 pairs of men subjected to transrectal and transperineal biopsy were chosen to account for confounding variables. We compared sPCa detection rates determined via index lesions and systematic biopsies, as well as by lesion localization. Results: Transperineal and transrectal biopsies detected sPCa in 49.5% vs. 40.6% overall (p = 0.027), 44.6% vs. 30.8% from index lesions (p = 0.001), and 24.3% vs. 35.1% from systematic biopsies (p = 0.003). SPCa detection rates were higher in transperineal biopsies across all index lesion localizations, with significant increases in the anterior zone (47.8% vs. 20.8% at the mid-base, p = 0.039, and 52.9% vs. 24.2% at the apex, p = 0.024) and central zone (33.3% vs. 5.9%, p = 0.003). With regards to SPCa detected only in systematic biopsies, 10.5% of cases were detected in transrectal biopsies and 4.9% of cases were detected in transperineal biopsies (p = 0.012). Conclusions: Targeted biopsies conducted via the transperineal route showed higher sPCa detection rates than transrectal biopsies, particularly for anterior and apical lesions, with systematic biopsies showing reduced utility.
Hormones, Age, and Erectile Dysfunction: Should Routine Testing Be Part of the Initial Evaluation?
Authors: Porav-Hodade Daniel , Gherasim Raul Dumitru , Kosovski Irina Bianca , Voidazan Toader Septimiu , Crisan Nicolae , Bogdan Petrut , Galis Radu , Feciche Bogdan Ovidiu , Ilona Mártha Orsolya Katalin , Todea-Moga Ciprian
Published: January 2025

Background/Objectives: The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between age, the severity of erectile dysfunction (ED), and the various hormones that may influence erectile function. Methods: A multicenter cross-sectional study was conducted between January 2015 and December 2023. The study assessed age, sexual function using the IIEF-15 questionnaire, and the levels of total testosterone (TT), free testosterone (FT), FSH, LH, estradiol, prolactin (PRL), and SHBG. Results: A total of 411 patients were included in the study. The mean age of the patients was 63.19 years. The vast majority (91.73%) exhibited some degree of ED. The severity of ED increases with age, ranging from 56.26 years for patients without ED to 73.12 years for those with severe ED. A statistically significant negative correlation was observed between IIEF and age, while a positive correlation was observed between IIEF and serum levels of TT and FT (p < 0.05). Age was significantly correlated with all evaluated hormones (p < 0.01), except estradiol and prolactin. Total testosterone levels progressively decreased with the increase in the severity of erectile dysfunction, from a median of 7.05 ng/mL in patients with normal erectile function to 3.56 ng/mL in those with severe symptoms, remaining above the normal minimum threshold across all groups, whereas free testosterone (FT) levels also declined progressively. All erectile dysfunction groups had median FT levels below the normal minimum threshold. FSH, LH, and SHBG showed an increase with each progressive severity of erectile dysfunction. The multivariate linear regression revealed that IIEF scores are significantly associated with age, TT, and FT levels, while FSH did not present a statistically significant association in this model. Conclusions: Age shows a significant statistical correlation with both the severity of erectile dysfunction and the levels of total testosterone, free testosterone, LH, FSH, and SHBG. Total and free testosterone levels are significantly associated with the severity of erectile dysfunction, with free testosterone median values remaining above the normal minimum threshold in all patients with erectile dysfunction. Therefore, free testosterone should be considered a routine test, alongside total testosterone. In contrast, LH, estradiol, SHBG, and prolactin do not demonstrate any statistical correlation with erectile dysfunction and should not be recommended as routine investigations.