bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dexamethasone-Functionalized PLLA Membranes: Effects of Layer-by-Layer Coating and Electrospinning on Osteogenesis
Authors: Gonçalves Flavia , Letomai Roberta Molisani , Gomes Marjory Muraro , Remédios Aguiar Araújo Maria dos , Muniz Yasmin Silva , Moreira Maria Stella , Boaro Leticia Cidreira
Published: January 2025

The addition of dexamethasone in membranes for guided bone regeneration is promising due to its dual effect: (1) anti-inflammatory action and (2) induction of osteogenesis in host stem cells. Electrospun fiber coating with dexamethasone using the layer-by-layer (LBL) technique offers an interesting alternative for the gradual release of the drug, aiming for enhanced osteodifferentiation activity. This study aimed to develop synthetic poly-L-lactide (PLLA) membranes with dexamethasone incorporated into the fibers or coated on their surface, and to evaluate the drug release rate, as well as the material’s ability to promote proliferation, osteoconduction, and osteodifferentiation of human periodontal ligament stem cells (hPDLSCs). PLLA membranes were produced by electrospinning. Dexamethasone was incorporated using three techniques: (A) electrospinning of a co-solution of PLLA with 2.5 w/w% dexamethasone; (B) deposition of four layers on the PLLA membrane using alternating solutions of chitosan and heparin/dexamethasone; (C) deposition of 10 layers on the PLLA membrane using the same solutions. hPDLSC proliferation was measured via CCK-8 at 1, 7, 14, and 21 days. Cellular differentiation was assessed by alkaline phosphatase activity (7 days) and alizarin red staining (21 days) in clonogenic and osteogenic media (ODM). Data were analyzed using one or two-way ANOVA and Tukey test. Electrospun membranes with dexamethasone and those with 4 layers showed immediate drug release within 24 h, whereas 10 layers exhibited gradual release over 14 days. Cumulative drug release was higher for electrospun membranes at 1 and 7 days, similar to 10 layers at 14 and 21 days. The 4 LBL membrane promoted lower hPDLSC proliferation compared to the 10 LBL and electrospun membranes at 21 days but showed increased extracellular matrix mineralization in osteogenic media. No significant differences in alkaline phosphatase expression were observed between materials. Therefore, the addition of dexamethasone in 10 layers, combined with heparin, enables gradual drug release. However, lower drug release in the first 24 h by four LBL membranes improved the material’s osteogenesis properties. None of the materials improved the osteodifferentiation in the clonogenic medium.
The Use of Biologics for Targeting GPCRs in Metastatic Cancers
Authors: McBrien Cian , O’Connell David J.
Published: January 2025

A comprehensive review of studies describing the role of G-protein coupled receptor (GPCR) behaviour contributing to metastasis in cancer, and the developments of biotherapeutic drugs towards targeting them, provides a valuable resource toward improving our understanding of the opportunities to effectively target this malignant tumour cell adaptation. Focusing on the five most common metastatic cancers of lung, breast, colorectal, melanoma, and prostate cancer, we highlight well-studied and characterised GPCRs and some less studied receptors that are also implicated in the development of metastatic cancers. Of the approximately 390 GPCRs relevant to therapeutic targeting, as many as 125 of these have been identified to play a role in promoting metastatic disease in these cancer types. GPCR signalling through the well-characterised pathways of chemokine receptors, to emerging data on signalling by orphan receptors, is integral to many aspects of the metastatic phenotype. Despite having detailed information on many receptors and their ligands, there are only thirteen approved therapeutics specifically for metastatic cancer, of which three are small molecules with the remainder including synthetic and non-synthetic peptides or monoclonal antibodies. This review will cover the existing and potential use of monoclonal antibodies, proteins and peptides, and nanobodies in targeting GPCRs for metastatic cancer therapy.
The Problem with Time: Application of Partial Least Squares Analysis on Time-Frequency Plots to Account for Varying Time Intervals with Applied EEG Data
Authors: Szostakiwskyj Jessie M. H. , Cortese Filomeno , Abdul-Rhaman Raneen , Anderson Sarah J. , Warren Amy L. , Archer Rebecca , Read Emma , Hecker Kent G.
Published: January 2025

Background/Objectives: When attempting to study neurocognitive mechanisms with electroencephalography (EEG) in applied ecologically valid settings, responses to stimuli may differ in time, which presents challenges to traditional EEG averaging methods. In this proof-of-concept paper, we present a method to normalize time over unequal trial lengths while preserving frequency content. Methods: Epochs are converted to time-frequency space where they are resampled to contain an equal number of timepoints representing the proportion of trial complete rather than true time. To validate this method, we used EEG data recorded from 8 novices and 4 experts in veterinary medicine while completing decision-making tasks using two question types: multiple-choice and script concordance questions used in veterinary school exams. Results: The resulting resampled time-frequency data were analyzed with partial least squares (PLS), a multivariate technique that extracts patterns of data that support a contrast between conditions and groups while controlling for Type I error. We found a significant latent variable representing a difference between question types for experts only. Conclusions: Despite within and between subject differences in timing, we found consistent differences between question types in experts in gamma and beta bands that are consistent with changes resulting from increased information load and decision-making. This novel analysis method may be a viable path forward to preserve ecological validity in EEG studies.
Towards a New Dawn for Neuro-Oncology: Nanomedicine at the Service of Drug Delivery for Primary and Secondary Brain Tumours
Authors: Khilar Smita , Dembinska-Kenner Antonina , Hall Helen , Syrmos Nikolaos , Ligarotti Gianfranco K. I. , Plaha Puneet , Apostolopoulos Vasileios , Chibbaro Salvatore , Barbagallo Giuseppe Maria Vincenzo , Ganau Mario
Published: January 2025

(1) Background/Objectives: Primary and secondary brain tumours often hold devastating prognoses and low survival rates despite the application of maximal neurosurgical resection, and state-of-the-art radiotherapy and chemotherapy. One limiting factor in their management is that several antineoplastic agents are unable to cross the blood–brain barrier (BBB) to reach the tumour microenvironment. Nanomedicine could hold the potential to become an effective means of drug delivery to overcome previous hurdles towards effective neuro-oncological treatments. (2) Methods: A scoping review following the PRISMA-ScR guidelines and checklist was conducted using key terms input into PubMed to find articles that reflect emerging trends in the utilisation of nanomedicine in drug delivery for primary and secondary brain tumours. (3) Results: The review highlights various strategies by which different nanoparticles can be exploited to bypass the BBB; we provide a synthesis of the literature on the ongoing contributions to therapeutic protocols based on chemotherapy, immunotherapy, focused ultrasound, radiotherapy/radiosurgery, and radio-immunotherapy. (4) Conclusions: The emerging trends summarised in this scoping review indicate encouraging advantageous properties of nanoparticles as potential effective drug delivery mechanisms; however, there are still nanotoxicity issues that largely remain to be addressed before the translation of these innovations from laboratory to clinical practice.
Cell Homing Strategies in Regenerative Endodontic Therapy
Authors: Kim David , Kim Sahng G.
Published: January 2025

Cell homing, a process that leverages the body’s natural ability to recruit cells and repair damaged tissues, presents a promising alternative to cell transplantation methods. Central to this approach is the recruitment of endogenous stem/progenitor cells—such as those from the apical papilla, bone marrow, and periapical tissues—facilitated by chemotactic biological cues. Moreover, biomaterial scaffolds embedded with signaling molecules create supportive environments, promoting cell migration, adhesion, and differentiation for the regeneration of the pulp–dentin complex. By analyzing in vivo animal studies using cell homing strategies, this review explores how biomolecules and scaffold materials enhance the recruitment of endogenous stem cells to the site of damaged dental pulp tissue, thereby promoting repair and regeneration. It also examines the key principles, recent advancements, and current limitations linked to cell homing-based regenerative endodontic therapy, highlighting the interplay of biomaterials, signaling molecules, and their broader clinical implications.
Mother and Child Emotion Regulation: A Moderated Mediation Model
Authors: Cenușă Maria , Turliuc Maria Nicoleta
Published: January 2025

The relationship between mother and child emotion regulation (ER) is widely researched, but fewer studies have investigated explanatory variables or those affecting the strength of this link. Background/Objectives: The present study focused on maternal play behavior, considered as an explanatory mechanism between mother and child ER. In addition, the study explored the moderating role of paternal empathy in the association between maternal emotion regulation (ER) and maternal play behavior. Methods: This present cross-sectional study involves 103 mothers and their husbands (the children’s fathers), with at least one child between the ages of 3 and 6 who is typically developed. Results: Our findings show that maternal play behavior mediates the relationship between maternal cognitive reappraisal (CR), expressive suppression (ES), and child ER. Regarding the moderating role of paternal empathy, lower levels moderate the association between ER and maternal play behavior. Conclusions: Our findings highlight the importance of maternal play behavior as an explanatory variable between maternal and child outcomes and, concomitantly, of paternal variables, such as empathy, in supporting maternal play behavior when it comes to achieving better child outcomes.
Microplastic Deposit Predictions on Sandy Beaches by Geotechnologies and Machine Learning Models
Authors: da Silva Ferreira Anderson Targino , de Oliveira Regina Célia , Ribeiro Maria Carolina Hernandez , de Freitas Sousa Pedro Silva , de Paula Miranda Lucas , de Oliveira Folharini Saulo , Siegle Eduardo
Published: January 2025

Microplastics (MPs) are polymeric particles, mainly fossil-based, widely found in marine ecosystems, linked to environmental and public health impacts due to their persistence and ability to carry pollutants. In São Paulo’s northern coast, geomorphological factors and anthropogenic activities intensify the deposition of these pollutants. Through multivariate techniques, this study aims to investigate the role of the morphometrical parameters as independent variables in quantifying the distribution of MPs on the region’s sandy beaches. Using beach face slope (tanβ) and orientation (Aspect) derived from remote sensing images, calibrated by in situ topographic profiles collected through GNSS positioning, and laboratory analyses, six machine learning models Random Forest, Gradient Boosting, Lasso and Ridge regression, Support Vector Regression, and Partial Least Squares regression were tested and evaluated for performance. The Gradient Boosting model demonstrated the best performance, indicating its superior capacity to capture complex relationships between predictor variables and MPs deposition, followed by Random Forest model. Morphometric analysis revealed, once again, that in this coastal section of São Paulo, beaches with Sloping profiles oriented toward the SSW are more susceptible to MPs accumulation, especially near urban centers. Ultimately, incorporating geomorphological variables into predictive models enhances understanding of MPs deposition, providing a foundation for environmental policies focused on marine pollution mitigation and coastal ecosystem conservation while also contributing to achieve SDG 14.
In Vitro Investigation of Antiaging Efficacy of Pterostilbene as Cosmetic Ingredient
Authors: Cen Zongxiao , Chen Zhiyuan , Wang Ding , Zuo Yuqin , Chen Xueping , Chen Junyuan
Published: January 2025

Pterostilbene is gaining increasing attention as an effective ingredient in cosmetics. This study was performed to investigate the antiaging efficacy of pterostilbene using a human-originated P2 generation fibroblast assay and an in vitro skin experiment. A fibroblast cytotoxicity assay was performed to evaluate the safety of pterostilbene: a 30 J/cm2 UVA irradiated fibroblast cell assay and a 30 J/cm2 UVA and 50 mJ/cm2 UVB-irradiated in vitro skin experiment were carried out to evaluate the antiaging efficacy of pterostilbene. The cytotoxicity assay found that 3.90 µg/mL or lower concentrations of pterostilbene exerted no significant toxicity to fibroblasts. The fibroblast cell assay showed that 2.6 µg/mL pterostilbene alleviated the UVA damage to fibroblasts by down-regulating the gene expression of matrix metalloproteinase 1 (MMP-1) by 18.62% and decreasing the content of MMP-1 by 10.08%, MMP-3 by 15.10%, and collagen I by 33.92%. The in vitro skin experiment revealed that pterostilbene relieved the adverse UVA and UVB irradiation effects on skin tissue by increasing the thickness of the epidermis to maintain skin morphology, preventing the degradation of collagen fibers by 88.57%, and increasing the amount of collagen IV by 30.95%, collagen VII by 25.64%, and fibroblast growth factor-β (FGF-β) by 15.67%. This fibroblast assay and in vitro skin study consistently demonstrated the strong antiaging efficacy of pterostilbene.
A Short Review of Advancements in Additive Manufacturing of Cemented Carbides
Authors: Zhao Zhe , Ni Xiaonan , Hu Zijian , Yang Wenxin , Deng Xin , Wu Shanghua , Li Yanhui , Nie Guanglin , Wu Haidong , Liu Jinyang , Huang Yong
Published: January 2025

Cemented carbides, renowned for their exceptional strength, hardness, elastic modulus, wear resistance, corrosion resistance, low coefficient of thermal expansion, and chemical stability, have long been indispensable tooling materials in metal cutting, oil drilling, and engineering excavation. The advent of additive manufacturing (AM), commonly known as “3D printing”, has sparked considerable interest in the processing of cemented carbides. Among the various AM techniques, Selective Laser Melting (SLM), Selective Laser Sintering (SLS), Selective Electron Beam Melting (SEBM), and Binder Jetting Additive Manufacturing (BJAM) have garnered frequent attention. Despite the great application potential of AM, no single AM technique has been universally adopted for the large-scale production of cemented carbides yet. The SLM and SEBM processes confront substantial challenges, such as a non-uniform sintering temperature field, which often result in uneven sintering and frequent post-solidification cracking. SLS notably struggles with achieving a high relative density of carbides. While BJAM yields WC-Co samples with a lower incidence of cracking, it is not without flaws, including abnormal WC grain growth, coarse WC clustering, Co-rich pool formation, and porosity. Three-dimensional gel-printing, though possessing certain advantages from its sintering performance, falls short in dimensional and geometric precision control, as well as fabrication efficiency. Cemented carbides produced via AM processes have yet to match the quality of their traditionally prepared counterparts. To date, the specific densification and microstructure evolution mechanisms during the AM process, and their interrelationship with the feedstock carbide material design, printing/sintering process, and resulting mechanical behavior, have not been thoroughly investigated. This gap in our knowledge impedes the rapid advancement of AM for carbide processing. This article offers a succinct overview of additive manufacturing of cemented carbides, complemented by an analysis of the current research landscape. It highlights the benefits and inherent challenges of these techniques, aiming to provide clarity on the present state of the AM processing of cemented carbides and to offer insights into potential future research directions and technological advancements.
Tumor-Associated Extracellular Matrix Obstacles for CAR-T Cell Therapy: Approaches to Overcoming
Authors: Klabukov Ilya , Kabakov Alexander E. , Yakimova Anna , Baranovskii Denis , Sosin Dmitry , Atiakshin Dmitry , Ignatyuk Michael , Yatsenko Elena , Rybachuk Victoria , Evstratova Ekaterina , Eygel Daria , Kudlay Dmitry , Stepanenko Vasiliy , Shegay Peter , Kaprin Andrey D.
Published: January 2025

Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T cell therapy yields good results in the treatment of various hematologic malignancies. However, the efficacy of CAR-T cell therapy against solid tumors has proven to be limited, primarily because the tumor-associated extracellular matrix (ECM) creates an intractable barrier for the cytotoxic CAR-T cells that are supposed to kill cancer cells. This review unravels the multifaceted role of the tumor-associated ECM in impeding CAR-T cell infiltration, survival, and functions within solid tumors. We analyze the situations when intratumoral ECM limits the efficacy of CAR-T cell therapy by being a purely physical barrier that complicates lymphocyte penetration/migration and also acts as an immunosuppressive factor that impairs the antitumor activities of CAR-T cells. In addition, we highlight promising approaches such as engineering CAR-T cells with improved capabilities to penetrate and migrate into/through the intratumoral ECM, combination therapies aimed at attenuating the high density and immunosuppressive potential of the intratumoral ECM, and others that enable overcoming ECM-related obstacles. A detailed overview of the data of relevant studies not only helps to better understand the interactions between CAR-T cells and the intratumoral ECM but also outlines potential ways to more effectively use CAR-T cell therapy against solid tumors.
Urbanization Influences on the Song Diversity of the Eurasian Nuthatch (Sitta europaea) in Northeast China
Authors: Sun Xueying , Suliman Muhammad , Wu Qingming , Shaliwa Paiyizulamu , Zou Hongfei , Zhu Jingli , Sadiq Khan Muhammad
Published: January 2025

The continuous advancement of urbanization and the expansion of cities inevitably have certain impacts on urban wildlife. Birds are a highly visible group of urban wildlife, widely distributed and sensitive to environmental changes. Birds’ song is an important way of conveying information; the effective conveyance and transmission of bird songs are crucial for attracting mates and successful reproduction. However, the impact of urban development on the songs of many birds remains unknown. This study compared the differences in song characteristics (maximum frequency, minimum frequency, main frequency, and duration) of the Eurasian Nuthatch (Sitta europaea) at six different research sites with different levels of urbanization, in order to explore the song response patterns of birds to urbanization. The results indicate that urbanization leads to a reduction in avian song diversity and a convergence in song parameters. Birds in different life history stages show inconsistent responses to urbanization. During the overwintering period, there are no significant differences in the minimum frequency and duration of the Eurasian Nuthatch’s song, almost no significant differences in the maximum frequency, and the main frequency of the Eurasian Nuthatch’s song, as distributed in the Forest Botanical Garden (FBG) shows some differences compared to other study sites. During the breeding period, there are no significant differences in the main frequency of the Eurasian Nuthatch’s song, while other parameters exhibit varying degrees of differences. Comprehensive analysis reveals that urbanization has varying impacts on the song diversity of the Eurasian Nuthatch across different life history stages. During the overwintering period, there is a significant reduction in song diversity, with a pronounced homogenization effect; during the breeding period, the birds’ songs are more diverse, with only the main frequency showing a significant homogenization effect. It is speculated that birds may strike a certain balance between adapting to urbanization and survival reproduction.
The Crucial Role of Laboratory Medicine in Addressing Future Public Health Infectious Threats: Insights Gained from the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Lippi Giuseppe , Henry Brandon M. , Mattiuzzi Camilla
Published: January 2025

Laboratory testing has played a pivotal role throughout the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, exemplifying the importance of in vitro diagnostics in addressing public health threats posed by outbreaks of infectious diseases. This article aims to present key insights from our expertise, derived from evidence gathered during the COVID-19 pandemic, to inform strategies for managing future infectious challenges. Current scientific evidence underscores that patient sample testing not only allows to diagnose an acute severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection, but also supports outbreak prediction, improved control measures, anticipation of pressure on the healthcare system, mitigation of adverse clinical outcomes, and early detection of emerging SARS-CoV-2 variants. Additionally, wastewater monitoring has emerged as a powerful tool for forecasting disease burden, including both prevalence and severity. Collectively, these findings underscore the value of diagnostic testing and wastewater surveillance in guiding healthcare planning and optimizing resource allocation during the COVID-19 pandemic, offering a valid framework to be applied to future public health threats, especially to any potential outbreak of “Disease X” that may emerge in the future.
Is There Bias in the Assessment of Contraindications for Resection? Disparities in the Surgical Management of Early-Stage Esophageal Cancer
Authors: Boutros Christina S. , Drapalik Lauren M. , Alvarado Christine E. , Bassiri Aria , Sinopoli Jillian , Tapias Vargas Leonidas , Linden Philip A. , Towe Christopher W.
Published: January 2025

Background: Resection is considered the standard of care for patients with localized esophageal cancer who are “physiologically fit”. Patients who do not meet this standard are considered contraindicated to receive surgery. We hypothesized that among patients with non-metastatic esophageal cancer, the consideration of contraindication status would vary based on clinical and demographic factors and would vary between institutions. Methods: We identified patients with non-metastatic gastric and esophageal cancer in the National Cancer Database (NCDB) from 2004 to 2018. Patients were categorized into three groups based on surgical treatment: surgical resection (including endoscopic mucosal resection), resection contraindicated, and refusal of resection based on the coding of the “reason for no surgery” data element. Demographic, clinical, and institutional characteristics were compared between the groups using bivariate and multivariate techniques to identify factors associated with contraindicated status. A subgroup analysis of cT1N0M0 patients was also used to assess every institution in the NCDB’s observed–expected ratio for contraindication status. Results: In total, 144,591 patients with non-metastatic disease met inclusion criteria: 124,972 (86%) underwent resection, 13,793 (10%) were contraindicated for resection, and 5826 (4%) refused resection. Contraindication was associated with age, non-Hispanic Black race, socioeconomic status, Charlson–Deyo score, insurance type, institution characteristics, clinical T-stage, and clinical N-stage. There were 9459 patients who were cT1N0M0 and had no co-morbidities. In this cohort, there were more than 1000-fold differences between individual programs regarding observed–expected ratio of contraindication status when adjusting for clinical and demographic characteristics. Conclusions: Variation in the assessment of contraindication status varies dramatically between institutions. Underserved minorities, including age, race, and insurance type, are risk factors for being considered contraindicated. These findings highlight the disparities that exist regarding surgical care of non-metastatic esophageal cancer in the United States.
Does a Dog at School Help Identify Human and Animal Facial Expressions? A Preliminary Longitudinal Study
Authors: Toutain Manon , Dollion Nicolas , Henry Laurence , Grandgeorge Marine
Published: January 2025

(1) Background: Animals provide many benefits in children’s lives, but few studies assess the effects of animal presence—especially service dogs—in schools. This pilot study examined whether a year-long exposure to a service dog could improve facial expression recognition in adolescents with cognitive function disorders. (2) Method: Twenty-three adolescents participated: 10 with cognitive function disorders who were part of a specialized French teaching program (LUSI) that included a service dog (LUSI group), and 13 neurotypical adolescents who served as controls (not in LUSI, no service dog exposure). Participants assigned one of five facial expressions (sadness, joy, fear, neutral, anger) to images of human, dog, and cat faces at three intervals: before dog integration, at 5–8 months, and 11–14 months later (same intervals for controls). (3) Results: Identification of facial expressions of both dog (p = 0.001) and human (p = 0.01) but not cat (p > 0.05) faces by LUSI participants exposed to service dog improved with time. The performance of LUSI participants was better when they lived with various species of animals at home. Control participants’ performance did not change significantly (all p > 0.05). (4) Conclusions: After a school year, the presence of a service dog had helped adolescents with cognitive function disorders to better identify human and dog facial expressions.
Predictive Modeling of Energy Consumption for Cooling Ventilation in Livestock Buildings: A Machine Learning Approach
Authors: Perez Garcia Carlos Alejandro , Tassinari Patrizia , Torreggiani Daniele , Bovo Marco
Published: January 2025

This research developed a predictive model using NeuralProphet to estimate energy consumption in the ventilation system of a dairy cattle farm. The necessity for energy management in livestock farming has increased due to the growing energy demands associated with climate control systems. Approximately two years of historical energy consumption data, collected through a smart monitoring system deployed on the farm, were utilized as the primary input for the NeuralProphet model to predict long-term trends and seasonal variations. The computational results demonstrated satisfactory performance, achieving a coefficient of determination (R2) of 0.85 and a mean absolute error (MAE) of 27.47 kWh. The model effectively captured general trends and seasonal patterns, providing valuable insights into energy usage under existing operational conditions. However, short-term fluctuations were less accurately predicted due to the exclusion of exogenous climatic variables, such as temperature and humidity. The proposed model demonstrated superiority over traditional approaches in its capacity to forecast long-term energy demand, providing critical support for energy management and strategic decision-making in dairy farm operations.
European LNG Import Network Analysis and Investigation of Supply Security
Authors: Savvakis Konstantinos I. , Moschovou Tatiana P.
Published: January 2025

The shift of European countries to more environmentally friendly sources of energy is leading to an increase in the share of natural gas in the energy mix. At the same time, the flexibility and cost-effectiveness of maritime transport are making liquefied natural gas (LNG) more competitive compared to traditional forms of natural gas, despite recent geopolitical, health and economic events threatening its supply chain. The aim of this study is to analyze the European LNG import network using network theory indicators to identify trading communities in the network and to investigate the security of supply through network failure simulation. The network model was developed using a programming code in MATLAB R2022B software. The results of the analysis can be summarized as follows: (a) a shift in the center of gravity of LNG trade from the Mediterranean to the Atlantic shores was identified; (b) a gradual consolidation of Europe’s import network was noted; (c) an increasing dependence of Europe on a limited number of countries was observed; and (d) the most critical nodes for network resilience were identified through modeling. Based on these findings, recommendations are proposed to strengthen Europe’s energy security and independence.
Monitoring of Cadmium, Lead, and Mercury Levels in Seafood Products: A Ten-Year Analysis
Authors: Garofalo Luisa , Sala Marcello , Focardi Claudia , Pasqualetti Patrizio , Delfino Daniela , D’Onofrio Francesca , Droghei Barbara , Pasquali Francesca , Nicolini Valentina , Galli Flavia Silvia , Scaramozzino Paola , Ubaldi Alessandro , Russo Katia , Neri Bruno
Published: January 2025

The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) monitors the presence and concentration of contaminants in food to mitigate health risks. EU legislation sets maximum levels of heavy metals in foods, including cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb), and total Hg (THg) in seafood, due to their toxicity. In the framework of official control, between 2014 and 2023, 5854 seafood samples were collected and 4300 analyses for THg, 3338 for Cd, and 2171 for Pb were performed using Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS) and cold vapor atomic absorption spectrometry (CVAAS). The aim was to assess the proportion of contaminated foods in the dataset, the concentration of contaminants, and the potential health risks associated with their intake. Of the total samples analyzed, 142 (2.43%) were found to be non-compliant (n.c.). Concentrations exceeding the limits for Cd were primarily detected in cephalopods (n = 17), mainly squids. In contrast, Hg levels exceeded the limits in marine fish (n = 118), notably in swordfish (11.30% of n.c. samples among those analyzed for this species), sharks (6.48%), and tuna species (3.11%). Regarding Pb, only a single bivalve sample was found to exceed the maximum limits. A preliminary assessment of weekly exposure to Hg through swordfish consumption raised concerns about the frequent intake of marine top predators, particularly for vulnerable people.
Metaheuristics-Based Optimization of a Control System Consisting of Underground Tuned Mass Dampers and Base Isolators for Seismic Structures
Authors: Ahadian Farnaz , Bekdaş Gebrail , Nigdeli Sinan Melih , Kim Sanghun , Geem Zong Woo
Published: January 2025

To reduce earthquake damage and its effect on the structures, tuned mass dampers (TMDs) are generally positioned on the top of the structures for effectiveness, but existing TMDs on the story levels have problems due to space and additional vertical load issues. Underground-tuned mass dampers (UTMDs) can be used for base-isolated structures to limit deformations of base isolation systems. This study aims to determine the optimum design parameters of an underground tuned mass damper (UTMD) combined with based isolated systems. The best-performing algorithm among the metaheuristic algorithms selected for the optimal design of the UTMD system was investigated. Classical and hybrid forms of several metaheuristic algorithms were used in the methodology. The hybrid of the Jaya algorithm and Teaching Learning-Based Optimization was found to be the most effective one for the reduction of maximum accelerations. The cases limiting the damping of the base-isolation system and various mass ratios of UTMD were also conducted. In conclusion, the control system can reduce the maximum acceleration of the optimum base-isolated structure by 4% to 23% according to the mass ratio of UTMD and provide a low-damping isolation design as the optimum one.
Exploring Vascular Complications in Ovarian Cancer Surgery: A Narrative Literature Review with a New Management Proposal Algorithm
Authors: Degano Matilde , Arcieri Martina , Frigatti Paolo , Scrivere Paola , Zermano Silvia , Driul Lorenza , Cucinella Giuseppe , Ronsini Carlo , Petrillo Marco , Capobianco Giampiero , Stabile Guglielmo , Ripepi Chiara , Cianci Stefano , Uccella Stefano , Chiantera Vito , Scambia Giovanni , Vizzielli Giuseppe , Restaino Stefano
Published: January 2025

Background/Objectives: Vascular complications during ovarian cancer surgery are rare but potentially severe. The objective of this review was to underline the need to standardize and optimize the management of these rare complications within an evidence-based framework. Methods: This review included the literature until 29 December 2024 and finally analyzed 17 studies, with 40 vascular complications reported. Results: Complications primarily occurred intraoperatively and involved both arterial and venous systems. Management approaches involved interdisciplinary collaboration, including vascular surgeons and interventional radiologists. Nevertheless, the collected data do not accurately reflect the reality of vascular complications in ovarian cancer surgery, as more than half of the included studies were case reports or research letters. This highlights the lack of standardized guidelines and limited training in vascular surgery for gynecologic oncologists, the importance of preoperative planning, including detailed imaging, risk stratification, and a multidisciplinary approach to mitigate complications. The authors propose an algorithm emphasizing prevention, timely identification, and effective management of vascular injuries alongside postoperative monitoring. Conclusions: The findings stress the need for treatment in high-volume tertiary centers and advocate advanced surgical training, incorporating virtual reality simulations to address vascular complications. Future research should focus on large multicenter studies to establish evidence-based guidelines for managing vascular complications in ovarian cancer surgery. Innovations in technology and education may further improve outcomes, ensuring optimal care for patients undergoing these complex procedures.
Intersectionality of the Gender Wage Gap Among Healthcare Professionals: A Scoping Review
Authors: Gupta Neeru , Zoungrana Jonathan
Published: January 2025

Background: A growing body of research has documented persistent wage gaps between women and men in the healthcare workforce, a pattern widely observed across cadres and countries. Less well known is whether various intersecting characteristics often associated with social discrimination may exacerbate or attenuate gendered disparities. This review scopes contemporary research from diverse settings focusing on how race, ethnicity, and sexual and gender minority status may intersect in shaping earnings differentials among healthcare practitioners to help inform policy and management decisions. Methods: Studies quantifying the intersecting axes of gender and other postulated social drivers of differed practitioner earnings were identified by systematically searching five bibliographic databases (Embase, CINAHL, EconLit, SocIndex, and PsychInfo) and scanning the reference lists of review articles and other forms of the global health literature. A total of 2123 reports were retrieved; after screening, 21 articles were retained for narrative synthesis. Results: The studies covered data from four countries (Brazil, Norway, the United Kingdom, and the United States). Physicians were researched most often (43% of the synthesized articles) followed by nurses (38%). No uniform patterns were found in gendered earnings variations stratified by race, ethnicity, and/or ancestry; however, wide variations were seen in the way the relationships were operationalized across studies and contexts. One investigation included sexual orientation as a factor in earnings gaps, but presented results combined with other personal characteristics. None of the studies examined wage data by gender minority status. Conclusions: This review highlighted notable limitations in the available research in relation to disaggregated measures of ethnocultural heterogeneity, robust methodologies and transparent reporting, and the underlying health workforce information systems for incorporating more diversity elements and enhancing cross-national comparability in assessments of structural wage gaps among healthcare practitioners.
The Long-Term Impact of Resilience-Building Interventions on Nurses: A Narrative Review of the Quantitative Evidence and Its Implications for Critical Care Nurses
Authors: Kyranou Maria , Karanikola Maria
Published: January 2025

Background: To minimize systematic bias, long-term follow-up is essential to assess the effect of resilience-building interventions. However, research focuses on the short-term period immediately following these interventions. Objectives: We investigated the long-term impact of resilience-building interventions on nurses, as measured via RCTs. Methods: A narrative review based on a systematic literature search (September–15 November 2024) using the keywords “Resilience/Psychological, Adaptation/Psychological, nurses, randomized controlled trial, follow-up” in the EBSCOhost, MEDLINE, ProQuest, Google Scholar, PubMed, and Scopus databases was applied. Results: A total of 38 studies were identified. Of these, only six encompassed long-term follow-up assessment after resilience-building interventions, also meeting the inclusion criteria for this review. Two of them focused on critical care nurses. Intervention durations ranged from 8 to 12 weeks, with shorter interventions also included (90 min lecture on stress, 3 h sensory awareness class). These data suggest that resilience improvements may become apparent 3 months post intervention, even when no immediate improvement is observed upon program completion, highlighting the importance of timing in the assessment process. Conclusions: These findings provide valuable insights for researchers designing resilience programs in critical care environments. Selecting appropriate assessment tools and conducting measurements at multiple time points may be as crucial as the interventions themselves in determining their effectiveness. This is clinically meaningful since it may inform providers of resilience programs for the time frame during which they need to be applied. Potentially, future research can explore what characteristics these interventions need to have in order to be effective longitudinally.
Knowledge and Awareness of Obesity-Related Breast Cancer Risk Among Women in the Qassim Region, Saudi Arabia: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Mackawy Amal Mohamad Husein , Alharbi Manal , Badawy Mohamad Elsayed Hasan , Alharbi Hajed Obaid Abdullah
Published: January 2025

Background: Breast cancer (BC) is a major health concern globally and the second leading cause of cancer-related mortality in women in Saudi Arabia. Although peoples’ awareness of BC risk factors has been previously examined, studies on obesity-related BC awareness in the Qassim region are inconclusive. We aimed to evaluate knowledge and awareness of obesity-related BC risk among Saudi women in the Qassim region. Methods: This is a cross-sectional study with a stratified random sampling technique of 400 Saudi women randomly selected from the Qassim region through an online platform and community health centers. An online closed-ended pretested validated structured questionnaire was completed by the participants using a Google Forms link. The categorical variables were frequency and percentage. The chi-square test was used to study the relationship between the dependent and independent variables. Results: There is moderate to poor knowledge regarding breast cancer risk factors. The results showed poor knowledge about obesity after menopause as a risk factor for BC (49%). Over half of the participants (51.0%) did not consider obesity a BC risk factor. The need for self-examinations and mammogram screenings showed moderate (59.6%) and poor awareness levels (4.75%). Conclusions: The findings highlight a noticeable gap in knowledge and awareness about obesity-related BC risks, as well as a limited awareness of the need for breast self-examinations and mammogram screenings. These results underscore the urgent need for targeted awareness campaigns and educational programs in the Qassim region to address this critical health issue. Promoting breast self-examination practices, weight management, and regular mammogram screenings could significantly enhance early detection, improve prognosis, and reduce BC-related mortality among Saudi women in the Qassim region.
Physiotherapy Within Inpatient Mental Health Wards: Involvement, Diagnoses, and Lifestyle Characteristics
Authors: Hodgson Philip , Hemmings Laura , Stubbs Brendon , Vancampfort Davy , Byrd Erin
Published: January 2025

Background: Severe mental illness (SMI) is often linked to physical health issues, including multiple comorbidities. Physiotherapists are increasingly recognized for their role in addressing these health disparities. This study investigated the role of physiotherapy in managing physical health conditions in individuals admitted to inpatient mental health services. Objective: The primary aim was to examine the prevalence of physical comorbidities among individuals admitted to inpatient mental health services, comparing those referred to physiotherapy versus those not referred. Secondary aims included assessing the relationship between physiotherapy referral and admission duration and identifying patterns in referral likelihood based on primary and comorbid diagnoses. Methods: A data linkage analysis was conducted using records from Tees, Esk and Wear Valleys NHS Foundation Trust, encompassing admissions from September 2020 to January 2023. Demographic data, physiotherapy referral status, and SNOMED-CT coded diagnoses were analyzed. Results: Among 2150 admissions, 505 (23.5%) were referred for physiotherapy. Multimorbidity was present in 58.1% of admissions, with a higher prevalence (67.8%) in those referred to physiotherapy versus those not referred (55.1%). Individuals referred to physiotherapy had longer lengths of stay (117.3 days), compared to those not referred (44.1 days), suggesting that extended stays may indirectly facilitate the identification and management of physiotherapy needs. Referral likelihood was influenced by primary diagnoses and comorbidities. Conclusions: Approximately one in four inpatient admissions resulted in a physiotherapy referral, with a higher prevalence of multimorbidity in those referred. Further research is warranted to explore the long-term impacts of physiotherapy interventions on physical and mental health outcomes.
Structural Violence and the Effects of the Patriarchal Structure on the Diagnosis of Borderline Personality Disorder (BDP): A Critical Study Using Tools on BPD Symptoms and Social Violence
Authors: Valero Elena , Paillet Alicia , Ciudad-Fernández Victor , Aparicio-García Marta E.
Published: January 2025

This study explores the relationship between borderline personality disorder (BPD) symptoms, measured using the Borderline Symptom List (BSL-23), and experiences of covert social violence, assessed via the Inventory of Covert Social Violence Against Women (IVISEM) and an open-ended survey given to 99 adults diagnosed with BPD. Quantitative data revealed significant emotional intensity, with a mean BSL-23 score of 56.81 (SD = 20.31), and a positive correlation (r = 0.29, p < 0.0034) between symptom severity and the number of self-reported disorders. The qualitative analysis highlighted themes of ‘Stigmatization and Structural Violence’ and ‘Gender Expectations’, with 62.9% of participants reporting that their emotions were pathologized as hormonal or exaggerated. The results highlight the significant emotional intensity in participants, particularly related to shame and vulnerability, suggesting these emotions are linked to structural violence perpetuated by patriarchal norms, including covert social violence. Biological explanations for emotionality, such as references to “hormonal” changes and “menstruation”, reinforce the idea that women’s intense emotions are natural, overlooking broader societal and structural factors. The results underscore the impact of the patriarchal structure, emphasizing the need for psychological approaches that address both the symptoms of BPD and the impact of societal and structural violence on women’s emotional health. The study sample underscores the main idea of the study: BPD is predominantly diagnosed in women, which underlines the need to rethink diagnostic tools and professional interventions. These results highlight the need for a feminist critique of the BSL-23 by showing how emotional symptoms are often interpreted through a gendered lens, emphasizing the importance of re-evaluating diagnostic tools to address the impact of societal and structural violence on women’s mental health.
Community Perspectives on Intimate Partner Violence During Pregnancy: A Qualitative Study from Rural Ethiopia
Authors: Agde Zeleke Dutamo , Magnus Jeanette H. , Assefa Nega , Wordofa Muluemebet Abera
Published: January 2025

Intimate partner violence (IPV) during pregnancy is closely associated with adverse maternal and fetal outcomes. To develop prevention strategies and interventions, the exploration of cultural norms, societal attitudes, and perceptions related to IPV is vital. This study explored community perspectives on IPV during pregnancy in rural Ethiopia. We used an exploratory qualitative study design to collect data. Data were collected through in-depth interviews (IDIs) and focus group discussions (FGDs) guided by a semi-structured topic guide. The data were analyzed using a thematic analysis approach, revealing the following four themes: (1) threats to the health of the mother and the fetus; (2) the contributing factors of IPV during pregnancy; (3) coping strategies for IPV during pregnancy; and (4) the need for intervention. Supportive attitudes toward IPV, early marriage, lack of awareness among offenders about its consequences, alcohol use, poor couple communication, and provocation by wives were found to be the causes of IPV during pregnancy. Participants in this study perceived IPV as a normal and unavoidable aspect of marital relationships. Comprehensive interventions that address challenging the cultural norms that condone IPV, increase community awareness of its detrimental effects, improve couples’ communication skills, and address alcohol abuse among men could play a crucial role in preventing or reducing IPV during pregnancy.