bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clinical Outcomes of Cefepime Dosing in Patients With Pseudomonas aeruginosa Infections Undergoing Renal Replacement Therapies
Authors: El Nekidy Wasim S. , Alzaman Khaled , Abidi Emna , Ghosn Muriel , Ismail Khaled , Ghazi Islam M. , El Lababidi Rania , Mooty Mohamad , Malik Amir , Alshamsi Amna , Almheiri Ali , Mallat Jihad
Published: February 2025

Objective

Data regarding the efficacy of cefepime in treating patients with Pseudomonas aeruginosa infections undergoing renal replacement therapy (RRT) are limited. Therefore, we conducted a study to investigate the outcomes of recommended cefepime dosing in this population.

Methods

A retrospective descriptive cohort study was conducted between May 2015 and December 2022 on patients diagnosed with active sepsis secondary to P. aeruginosa infection, requiring cefepime treatment and undergoing RRT. The primary endpoint was 30‐day all‐cause mortality, with secondary endpoints including clinical cure, microbiologic cure, infection recurrence rate, and incidence of adverse events.

Results

A total of 132 patients met the inclusion criteria. Of these, 81 (62.4%) were male, with a median age of 69 years and a median BMI of 27 kg/m2. The most common diagnoses were pneumonia (58.3%), followed by bacteremia (18.9%). The median minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of cefepime for P. aeruginosa was 2 mcg/mL. The median dose of cefepime was 2000 mg every 12 h in those undergoing continuous venovenous hemofiltration and 1000 mg every 24 h in those undergoing intermittent hemodialysis, with a median duration of therapy of 8 days. The median Charlson Comorbidity index for survivors was 9 (8–11), while it was 7.5 (5.25–9.75) for non‐survivors (p = 0.754). The 30‐day survival rate was achieved in 96 patients (72.7%), the clinical cure was achieved in 58.3% of subjects, and a microbiologic cure rate of 31%. The 30‐day reinfection rate was 9.1%, with no documented adverse events associated with the doses used. Multivariable logistic regression analysis identified the use of vasopressors (Odds Ratio 4.6, 95% CI 1.3–17.1) and white blood cell count at the end of therapy (Odds Ratio 1.1, 95% CI 1.01–1.4) as the main predictors of all‐cause mortality in this population.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that the utilized doses of cefepime in patients with P. aeruginosa infections undergoing RRT were effective. Larger study is needed to confirm our findings.
Simulated daylight vs. conventional PDT for clinical superficial BCC: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Sjöholm Alexandra , Backman Eva , Modin Maja , Fougelberg Julia , Claeson Magdalena , Paoli John
Published: February 2025

Background

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a recognized treatment for superficial basal cell carcinoma (sBCC). Conventional PDT (C‐PDT) has a relatively high clearance rate but is time‐consuming and painful. Simulated daylight PDT (SDL‐PDT) has the potential advantage of causing less pain, but its effectiveness has not been investigated thoroughly.

Objectives

To determine whether SDL‐PDT is non‐inferior to C‐PDT in the treatment of clinically diagnosed sBCC and to assess adverse events during treatment and patient preferences.

Methods

In this single‐centre, non‐inferiority, randomized controlled trial, adult patients with sBCCs of any size and located on anatomical sites suitable for PDT were recruited. Lesions were randomized to two sessions of either SDL‐PDT or C‐PDT using aminolevulinic acid as the photosensitizer. Patient‐perceived pain was measured using a numeric rating scale (NRS) ranging from 0 to 10. Self‐report forms were used to measure patient preferences. Patients were evaluated after 3 months to assess early treatment failure and after 1 year to determine overall clearance rates.

Results

In total, 78 participants with 193 sBCCs were treated. Most lesions (47.2%) were located on the trunk and were diagnosed solely through dermoscopic evaluation (64.2%). After 1 year, the clearance rate was 62.4% for SDL‐PDT and 91.8% for C‐PDT (p < 0.001) disproving non‐inferiority. Illumination was reported to be more painful during C‐PDT (mean NRS score of 3.5 at session 1 and 3.7 at session 2) compared with SDL‐PDT (mean NRS score of 0.1 at both sessions) (p < 0.001). Immediately after treatment, 87.5% of respondents expressed a preference for SDL‐PDT.

Conclusions

SDL‐PDT is less effective than C‐PDT but is also less painful. Due to the lower clearance rate, this study does not support SDL‐PDT as a primary treatment option for sBCC. The randomized controlled trial was registered at http://www.researchweb.org/ (project 264721).
Machine Learning and Computational Fluid Dynamics Applications for the Modeling of the Decompression‐Induced Innovative Steaming Treatment of Paddy at the Bulk Level
Authors: Chakraborty Sourav , Bordoloi Tridisha , Kumari Sonam , Hazarika Manuj K.
Published: February 2025

Instant controlled pressure drop (ICPD) treatment is a novel approach for the quality improvement of milled rice. In this investigation, temperature and moisture profiling for the bulk‐level ICPD treatment of paddy and its effect on the gelatinization kinetics of milled rice were studied using machine learning approaches, namely, artificial neural network (ANN), adaptive neuro‐fuzzy interface system (ANFIS), and computational fluid dynamics (CFD). For CFD‐based temperature profiles, the coefficient of determination (R2) values ranged from 0.91 to 0.95, while for moisture profiles, the values were between 0.97 and 0.99. In case of ANN predictions, the 2‐5‐3 architecture showed adequate performance based on an R2 value of 0.99 and a mean squared error (MSE) of 0.514. For ANFIS‐based predictions, the R2 values exceeded 0.99, while the MSE values ranged from 0.0034 to 0.0084. The 2‐3‐3‐1 ANFIS architecture with gaussmf membership function and nine fuzzy rules showed the best results. These results indicated that the ANFIS‐based model exhibited more accuracy as compared to ANN‐ and CFD‐based predictions. In addition, the broken rice percentage (BRP) was determined to assess the impact of temperature and moisture profiles on the quality of milled rice, showing a decrease in BRP with the increase of treatment time. The parboiled rice treated for 40 s had the highest quality by considering BRP obtained from all the nodes.
Economic Exposure of Canadian Residential Properties to Flooding
Authors: Morin Gabriel , Boudreault Mathieu , Thistlethwaite Jason , Bourdeau‐Brien Michael , Chenette Jacob , Henstra Daniel , Raikes Jonathan
Published: February 2025

Flood risk management (FRM) involves planning proactively for flooding in high‐risk areas to reduce its impacts on people and property. A key challenge for governments pursuing FRM is to pinpoint assets that are highly economically exposed and vulnerable to flood hazards in order to prioritize them in policy and planning. This paper presents a novel flood risk assessment, making use of a dataset that identifies the location, dwelling type, property characteristics, and potential economic losses of Canadian residential properties. The findings reveal that the average annual costs are $1.4B, but most of the risks are concentrated in high‐risk areas. Data gaps are uncovered that justify replication through local validation studies. The results provide a novel evidence base for specific reforms in Canada's approach to FRM, with a focus on insurance that improves both implementation and effectiveness.
Harnessing Novel Data‐Driven Techniques for Precise Rainfall–Runoff Modeling
Authors: Sammen Saad Sh. , Mohammadpour Reza , AlSafadi Karam , Mokhtar Ali , Shahid Shamsuddin
Published: February 2025

Rainfall and runoff are considered the main components of the hydrological cycle, and their forecasting is of great significance in water resource management, particularly for reservoir operation. Developing an accurate model to capture the dynamic connection between rainfall and runoff remains problematic and challenging in water resource management due to the nonstationary characteristics of hydrologic processes and the effects of noise. In this study, data‐driven techniques, such as the group method of data handling (GMDH), extreme learning machine (ELM), and two hybrids of artificial neural network (ANN) with Cuckoo search algorithm (ANN + Cuckoo) and genetic algorithm (ANN + GA) were used to model the rainfall–runoff relationship. For a comprehensive analysis, four scenarios were examined based on the different input combinations to test and select the best scenario and best model performance. The results indicated that the performance of ELM and GMDH in predicting runoff was more accurate than that of ANN + Cuckoo and ANN + GA. Although the GMDH predicts runoff with higher accuracy, ELM provides reliable performance in simulating both low and high values. The models' performance can be ranked based on the testing data in the following order: GMDH, ELM, ANN + GA, and ANN + CUKOO. The root mean squared error (RMSE) was recorded as 56.7 and 69.7 m3/s for the GMDH and ELM models, respectively. These low RMSE values highlight the potential of these models in effectively addressing the challenges associated with the complexity of rainfall–runoff simulations. Moreover, the results demonstrate that the machine learning models could be used as a simple, rapid, and inexpensive approach for timely and reliable runoff prediction that is expected to benefit reservoir management.
Using Video Introduction to Mitigate Affect‐Based Initial Trust in Automation
Authors: Cui Zixin , Yang Fan , Zhou Huiping , Li Xintong , Itoh Makoto
Published: February 2025

Initial trust in automation influences people's initial decisions to embrace and utilize automation. However, too much trust in automation, beyond the automation's actual reliability and capability, can lead to its misuse or abuse. Specifically, affect‐based initial trust in automation can be easily fostered without enhancing the system's actual reliability and capability. Therefore, the current study aimed to investigate a strategy to help mitigate affect‐based initial trust in automation. We conducted an online experiment comparing the effects of different introduction types—plain text versus video with visual animation and oral narration. Results indicated that affect‐based initial trust remained relatively consistent across video and plain text conditions. However, detailed analyses revealed that video introduction notably decreased the faith sub‐facet of affect‐based initial trust. These findings suggest a potential method to mitigate people's groundless overestimation of system ability, which may minimize the risk of initial misuse or abuse of automation systems.
Evaluating implementation by rural clinics of evidence‐based interventions to promote HPV vaccination
Authors: Evett Stephanie , Walker Shelley , Ryan Grace W. , Steere Eliza , Daly Eliza , Janio Emily A. , Pedraza Marin Stephanie , Askelson Natoshia M.
Published: February 2025

Purpose

Despite the well‐established link between vaccination against human papillomavirus (HPV) and a decreased risk of cancer, HPV vaccine uptake in rural communities is low. Evidence‐based interventions (EBIs) to promote HPV vaccination exist but are not universally implemented in rural settings due to various challenges. To understand the support needed by rural clinics in implementing EBIs, the University of Iowa partnered with the American Cancer Society (ACS) to evaluate an ACS HPV Vaccinating Adolescents against Cancers Quality Improvement Learning Collaborative that was delivered to six clinics in two rural health systems. The study aimed to assess the effectiveness of the learning collaborative approach for helping rural clinics implement EBIs aimed at increasing HPV vaccine uptake.

Methods

Semistructured interviews were conducted with clinic staff at six time points throughout the 2‐year intervention. Interviews were conducted over the phone and were recorded and transcribed. Members of the research team coded the interviews using codebooks informed by the interview guides. The analysis compared the health systems and identified the changes they made in response to assistance provided by the collaborative.

Results

Clinic staff implemented the following EBIs: utilizing the immunization registry, strong provider recommendation, and provider education. Implementation of scheduling next dose fluctuated during the intervention. Differences were noted in the two health systems’ implementation using electronic health records for patient and provider reminders.

Conclusion

Small, rural clinics can implement effective EBIs, given proper support. This is important as such EBIs can increase HPV vaccination rates and help prevent HPV‐associated cancers.
Influence of drought stress on the metabolite and ion composition in nectar and nectaries of different day‐ and night‐flowering Nicotiana species
Authors: Göttlinger T. , Naegel D. , Dick J. E. , Lohaus G.
Published: February 2025

The frequencies of droughts worldwide will increase in the future due to climate changes. Nectar composition of plant species varies in relation to pollinator and can also be influenced by drought. We investigated both different pollinated species and the effects of drought in parallel. In addition, the influence of drought on nectar production and metabolism in nectaries should be investigated, since very little is currently known about this.

The influence of drought stress on nectaries, nectar and leaves of 4 day‐ and night‐flowering Nicotiana species (pollinated by sunbirds, hummingbirds, hawkmoths or bats) were investigated. The nectar volume, as well as metabolite concentrations (sugars, amino acids), inorganic ions and starch were measured. PCA and PERMANOVA were applied to determine the relative importance of different drought conditions on metabolism of nectaries and nectar.

Drought stress led to changes in composition of nectaries and nectar in all four Nicotiana species. The day‐flowering species had relatively similar changes, whereas the night‐flowering species differed from these and also from each other. Quantities of sugars, amino acids and inorganic ions per flower decreased sharply in all Nicotiana species because of a strong decrease in nectar volume.

Drought stress not only compromises plant growth but also nectar secretion and composition. These changes are likely to affect plant–pollinator interactions and may negatively impact successful pollination.
The language of “diversity” or “DEI”? Exploring job titles of diversity professionals in US institutions of higher education
Authors: Rajasekar Neeraj , Gunderson Evan , Wilcox Annika
Published: February 2025

Diversity discourse and related policy have been common in US higher education, and many such institutions employ diversity professionals. As diversity has historically been a contested concept, the language schools use to articulate diversity can greatly shape the discursive environment and work faced by diversity professionals, especially in the current moment of regular political attacks on diversity and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) offices in US higher education. This study analyzes the language of diversity in US higher education via analysis of diversity‐related job titles. We examine job title data collected from thousands of colleges and universities across the country over an 18‐year period, with special attention to educational institutions' use of “diversity” versus “DEI” terminology. We also analyze how institutional characteristics and contextual factors are associated with language in diversity‐related job titles. We find that te language of DEI became substantially more prominent over time, rising steadily from 2015 through 2022. While this may change in the near future, our study illustrates that DEI language had some momentum in American institutions of higher education (IHEs) in the past decade. Notably, schools' language choice has little association with institutional characteristics or contextual factors, which has implications in a moment where anti‐DEI politics and policy are affecting IHEs around the country. We discuss our analysis in the context of the current political‐legal landscape and consider directions for future research examining the language of diversity and DEI in US society.
ON A MULTIPHYSICS DIGITAL TWIN FOR AGING PREDICTION OF ADHESIVE STEP LAP JOINTS
Authors: Michopoulos John , Apetre Nicole , Iliopoulos Athanasios , Steuben John
Published: February 2025

The present work describes the early steps in creating a digital twin to predict aging for multi-material adhesive step lap joints (ASLJs), considering simultaneous mechanical and environmental influences. It begins by defining the digital twin context and its specific architecture known as the data-driven digital twin (D3T). For a D3T to work, a theoretical and computational framework must be established to understand how the properties of materials in ASLJs degrade due to environmental damage. The developed framework describes a thermodynamics-based theory for predicting material degradation. The computational implementation of the framework and its performance are evaluated using two models of multi-material ASLJs. The first model contains a single-step ASLJ made of titanium Ti-6Al-4V and carbon epoxy composite with FM-300K adhesive, featuring three variations to show different levels of homogenization. Studies on this model assess the impact of various parameters such as the finite element order, mesh density, damage parameters, and inclusion of damage models for the participating domains. Validation of this model is also provided against experimental data. The second model addresses a multistep ASLJ using the same materials. Predictions from this model are compared favorably with experimental results under two different environmental conditions to gain insights into the aging and performance degradation of the ASLJs. Finally, conclusions and plans close the present paper.
Alterations of hepatic lipid content following COVID-19 in persons with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Kupriyanova Yuliya , Yurchenko Iryna , Bobrov Pavel , Bartels Frederik , Wierichs Stefan , Jonuscheit Marc , Korzekwa Benedict , Prystupa Katsiaryna , Schön Martin , Mendez Dania , Trenkamp Sandra , Burkart Volker , Wagner Robert , Schrauwen-Hinderling Vera , Roden Michael
Published: February 2025

Introduction

The study aimed to assess the effect of COVID-19 on hepatic lipid (HL) content, fibrosis risk, and adiposity in persons with type 2 diabetes.

Research design and methods

Participants with type 2 diabetes with a history of mild COVID-19 (n=15, age 58±12 years, body mass index 30.9±5.2 kg/m2) were examined before (baseline) and 1 year (12±2 months) after (follow-up) recovery from COVID-19. Investigations for changes in metabolic risk comprised clinical examination, fasting blood sampling and MR-based measurements. Potential changes were corrected with the time course of the respective parameters in a group of participants who did not contract COVID-19 over the same time course (n=14, 61±6 years, 30.0±4.6 kg/m2).

Results

COVID-19 resulted in a relative increase in HL content of 56% (95% CI 18%, 106%; p=0.04) measured as proton density fat fraction (HL-PDFF), corrected for the time course in the absence of COVID-19. While no changes in hepatic stiffness and volume, intramyocellular lipids, whole-body, subcutaneous and visceral adipose tissue volumes as well as homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance and beta-cell function were observed.

Conclusions

History of COVID-19 in persons with type 2 diabetes is associated with higher HL-PDFF after 1 year following recovery from infection.

Trial registration number

NCT01055093.
Genetics, primary care records and lifestyle factors for short-term dynamic risk prediction of colorectal cancer: prospective study of asymptomatic and symptomatic UK Biobank participants
Authors: Ip Samantha , Harrison Hannah , Usher-Smith Juliet A , Barclay Matthew E , Tyrer Jonathan , Dennis Joe , Yang Xin , Lush Michael , Renzi Cristina , Pashayan Nora , Denaxas Spiros , Lyratzopoulos Georgios , Antoniou Antonis C , Wood Angela M
Published: February 2025

Objectives

To quantify the contributions of polygenic scores, primary care records (presenting symptoms, medical history and common blood tests) and lifestyle factors, for short-term risk prediction of colorectal cancer (CRC) in general and symptomatic individuals.

Methods and analysis

This prospective cohort study used data from the UK Biobank with follow-up until 2018. It included 160 507 participants with linked primary care records and a subcohort of 42 782 participants with recent CRC-related symptoms. The outcome was the first-recorded CRC diagnosis within 2 years. Dynamic risk models with time-varying predictors were derived using a super-landmark framework. Model discrimination was assessed through Harrel’s C-index, and predictor contributions to model discrimination were evaluated using inclusion-order-agnostic Shapley values.

Results

C-indices (95% CIs) were 0.73 (0.72 to 0.73) and 0.69 (0.68 to 0.70) for the general and symptomatic participants, respectively. Shapley contributions to model discrimination (95% CIs) were core predictors (eg, age, sex) 33% (25% to 42%) (symptomatic: 34% (9% to 75%)), polygenic scores 16% (8% to 26%) (8% (−21% to 35%)), primary care blood tests 32% (19% to 43%) (41% (16% to 73%)), medical history 11% (4% to 17%) (9% (−25% to 37%)), lifestyle factors 6% (0% to 11%) (−5% (−32% to 13.4%)) and symptoms 3% (−2% to 7%) (13% (−19% to 41%)).

Conclusions

Polygenic scores contribute substantially to short-term risk prediction for CRC in both general and symptomatic populations; however, the contribution of information in primary care records (including presenting symptoms, medical history and common blood tests) is greater. Lifestyle factors not routinely collected in primary care contribute minimally.
Defending manic competence: a reply to Kane
Authors: Director Samuel
Published: February 2025

In a recent paper in this journal, I defended the thesis that some, although not all, patients experiencing acute bipolar mania are competent to consent. I made this argument based on the fact that the burden of proof lies with those who want to make judgements of incapacity (because autonomy is the default option until proven otherwise). We then need to ask what the reasons are for claiming that manic patients are not competent. I surveyed and critiqued the two most common reasons offered in the literature, which are that manic patients are irrational or that their value shifts in mania are defunct in some way. I argued that for many manic patients, neither of these reasons is strong enough to justify removing their decision-making capacity. Kane (2024) replied to my paper. In this short response, I defend my original arguments from Kane’s objection.
Real-world oral glucocorticoid use in SLE: a nation-wide population-based study using the French medico-administrative (SNDS) claim database
Authors: Arnaud Laurent , Fabry-Vendrand Caroline , Todea Remus , Vidal Blandine , Cottin Juliette , Bureau Isabelle , Bouée Stéphane , Thabut Gabriel
Published: February 2025

Background

Oral glucocorticoids (OCS) remain one of the most important treatments for SLE but are associated with damage. Evidence regarding the real-world use of OCS in nationwide SLE populations is currently lacking. The aim of this study was to analyse OCS use and SLE treatments in French patients with SLE at the national level.

Methods

The nationwide French health insurance claims database, which contains pseudonymised data for ≈66 million people, was used. Prevalent patients with SLE (International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision code M32, recorded as a chronic condition or associated with hospital stay) were identified over the year 2019. SLE treatments were captured through actual drug deliveries by pharmacies and mean daily OCS doses (prednisone equivalent) were calculated for the year 2019.

Results

The 2019 French prevalent SLE population comprised 31 852 patients (86.3% of women, with a mean age of 49.7 (±15.9) years) with a mean disease duration of 7.1 (±6.2) years. Among these, 48.3% were treated with OCS. The mean daily OCS dose was ≤5 mg/day in 35.9%, more than 5 mg but <7.5 mg/day in 6.4% and ≥7.5 mg/day in 6.0%. The use of other SLE treatments was significantly increased in patients with higher doses of OCS (p<0.0001). Potential complications of OCS, including cardiovascular diseases, infections and osteoporosis, were significantly increased in patients with SLE receiving more than 5 mg of OCS per day (p<0.0001, for all). Strikingly, 13.6% of patients receiving mean daily OCS doses >5 mg/day were not treated with antimalarial, immunosuppressant or biologic drugs for SLE.

Conclusions

In total, 48.2% of French patients with SLE were treated with OCS in 2019, including 12.4% at a mean dose >5 mg/day, with an increased risk of OCS complications and a limited use of antimalarials, immunosuppressants or biologics. These results highlight the urgent need for the implementation of more robust OCS-sparing strategies in SLE.
Autoimmune encephalitis associated with anti-LGI1 antibody: a potential cause of neuropsychiatric systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Chen Sixian , Ren Haitao , Fan Siyuan , Zhang Shangzhu , Li Mengtao , Guan Hongzhi
Published: February 2025

Objective

To investigate the clinical features and treatment outcomes of anti-leucine-rich glioma-inactivated 1 (anti-LGI1) encephalitis in patients with SLE.

Methods

Between October 2014 and April 2024, serum or cerebrospinal fluid samples were collected from 332 patients with SLE suspected of autoimmune encephalitis. Cell-based assays were used to detect autoimmune antibodies, including anti-LGI1 antibodies. Four patients tested positive for anti-LGI1 antibodies, and their clinical, radiological and treatment data were analysed.

Results

All four patients exhibited signs of limbic encephalitis, including short-term memory deficits, seizures and psychiatric disturbances. Two cases also presented with faciobrachial dystonic seizures. MRI findings revealed hyperintense basal ganglia lesions in two patients. Treatment with corticosteroids, intravenous immunoglobulin and mycophenolate mofetil led to significant improvement in three patients, with no relapses during a follow-up period ranging from 33 to 60 months. One patient succumbed to pneumonia despite initial improvement of neurological function.

Conclusion

Screening for anti-LGI1 antibodies in patients with neuropsychiatric systemic lupus erythematosus (NPSLE) is crucial when limbic encephalitis presents, as it enables timely and effective treatment, potentially improving patients’ outcomes. Additional basic and clinical research is required to clarify the pathogenic role of these antibodies in NPSLE.
Auriculotherapy and pain intensity and functional disability in older adults with chronic low back pain: randomised single-blind clinical trial
Authors: Pourmohammadi Maryam , Tagharrobi Zahra , Sharifi Khadijeh , Sooki Zahra , Zare Mohammad , Zare Joshaghani Fatemeh
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Considering the importance of chronic low back pain in disability in older adults, the present study aimed to investigate the effect of auriculotherapy on pain intensity and functional disability in this group.

Materials and methods

This single-blind clinical trial was conducted on older adults with chronic low back pain in Kashan, Iran, 2019–2020. Seventy eligible older people were allocated to the intervention and sham groups via block randomisation. In the intervention group, pressure was applied using Varcaria seeds on the Shenmen, sympathetic, nerve subcortex and low back points. The visual analogue scale was completed at the beginning (T0), weekly (T1–T4) and 1 month after intervention (T5). Functional disability was assessed using Oswestry Disability Index at T0, T4 and T5. Data were analysed in per-protocol and intention-to-treat designs using repeated measures analysis of variance and analysis of covariance.

Results

There was a significant difference between the two groups regarding disease duration (p=0.012). The interaction effect of time and intervention was significant on pain intensity and functional disability (effect size (ES)=0.858 and ES=0.789, p<0.0001). The pain intensity in the intervention group was significantly lower than in the sham group at T2–T5 (p<0.0001). The functional disability score in the intervention group was significantly lower than in the sham group at T4 and T5 (p<0.0001).

Conclusion

Auriculotherapy can reduce pain intensity and functional disability in older adults with chronic low back pain; it can be used as a complementary medicine in care programmes for older adults with chronic low back pain.
Winter behaviour and energetics of free-swimming largemouth bass
Authors: Reeve Connor , LaRochelle Luc , Bihun Christian J. , Brownscombe Jacob W. , Cooke Steven J.
Published: February 2025

Bioenergetics models have many valuable applications for fishes, but often lack ecological realism due to limited data from free-living wild animals. Here we used heart rate loggers and accelerometers in wild largemouth bass (LMB; Micropterus nigricans) to characterize their bioenergetics during the winter (fall to late-spring) in a small lake. Activity, heart rate, and metabolic rate decreased over the fall, remained low over the winter, and peaked in the late-spring coinciding with spawning. Interestingly, LMB exhibited continued slow swimming over the winter period. Growth rates were predominately negative over the winter period; however, mass change was highly variable. Using an updated Wisconsin bioenergetics model, estimates of consumption indicated that overwinter feeding was likely occurring and simulations of winter fasting predicted greater mass lost than observed for most LMB; however, if fasting results in a reduction in metabolic rate, predicted losses suggest that some LMB may be able to fast through the winter. This study provides insights into ecologically realistic bioenergetics parameters for LMB and furthers our understanding of LMB winter behaviour and energy use.
Modified hybrid inflation in no-scale SUGRA with suppressed R-symmetry breaking
Authors: Wan Qian , Zhang Da-Xin
Published: February 2025

A well-motivated cosmological hybrid inflation scenario based on no-scale SUGRA is considered. It is demonstrated that an extra suppressed R-symmetry breaking term

$$S^n$$

S
n

with

$$n\ge 4$$

n
≥
4

needs to be included in order to realize successful inflation. The resulting potential is found to be similar (but not identical) to the one in the Starobinsky inflation model. A relatively larger tensor-to-scalar ratio

$$r\sim 10^{-2}$$

r
∼

10

-
2

and a spectral index

$$n_s\approx 0.965$$

n
s

≈
0.965

are obtained, which are approximately independent of n.
An approach for fast and qualitative detection of thin coatings on non-woven fabric via laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy
Authors: Tasche Daniel , Pribyl Roman , Tümmel Andreas , Kelar Jakub , Kelar Tučeková Zlata , Gerhard Christoph
Published: February 2025

In modern textile industry, the application of thinnest functional coatings on fabrics has become state-of-the-art for realising daily used goods with defined surface properties. However, since woven fabrics or non-woven textiles feature complex and undefined surfaces, classical measurement of the thickness and thickness homogeneity via classical geometrical methods is a challenging task. Against this background, an alternative approach based on spectroscopic data was investigated in this work. For this purpose, polyester non-woven textiles and plane control samples were coated with silicon suboxide-like layers using a plasma coating process. The coating thickness was then detected indirectly by measuring the ratio of characteristic elemental lines from the coating and substrate material via laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy. It is shown that with increasing number of laser pulses and decreasing residual thickness, respectively, this ratio decreases logarithmically. Such a decrease has turned out to be independent of the substrate surface texture. However, some restrictions of the investigated approach were identified by additional microscopic measurements where an inhomogeneous layer growth as well as laser-induced delamination was ascertained. The impact of these effects on the detected ratio is thus discussed. The results finally represent a proof of principle as a basis for ongoing work for spectroscopic measurement of coating thickness on complexly shaped surfaces.

Graphical abstract
Integration of germanium-vacancy single photon emitters arrays in diamond nanopillars
Authors: Redolfi Elisa , Pugliese Vanna , Scattolo Elia , Cian Alessandro , Missale Elena , Favaro de Oliveira Felipe , Seniutinas Gediminas , Ditalia Tchernij Sviatoslav , Dell’Anna Rossana , Traina Paolo , Olivero Paolo , Giubertoni Damiano , Forneris Jacopo
Published: February 2025

The nanoscale fabrication of μm-spaced single-photon emitter arrays is crucial for the development of integrated photonic chips. We report on the fabrication and systematic characterization of germanium-vacancy (GeV) color centers arrays in diamond obtained upon ion implantation at the nanoscale. Ge2+ ion implantations at 35 keV and 70 keV energies were carried out using a focused ion beam (FIB) equipped with a liquid metal alloy ion source. The arrays of emitters are subsequently aligned to ø300 nm nanopillar waveguiding structures, fabricated using a combination of electron-beam lithography and plasma etching. The photon collection efficiency and photoluminescence (PL) signal-to-background ratio increased by a factor 8 with respect to the unstructured sample. The photophysical properties of the GeV emitters fabricated by this approach were unaltered with respect to those found in unprocessed diamond. The efficiency of the overall manufacturing process to fabricate individual GeV centers was assessed. Up to 33% of the fabricated nanopillars, depending on ion implantation parameters, were found to contain single emitters.
Application of Innovative Teaching Methods in Music Education Based on Network Control and Optimized Centralized Algorithms
Authors: He Zhaozhe
Published: February 2025

The traditional music education model faces challenges such as uneven distribution of teaching resources and lack of personalized teaching. With the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) and computer technology, especially the application of network control and centralized optimization algorithms, new paths have been opened up for innovation in music education. This paper focuses on building an innovative music education teaching platform that integrates network control and optimized centralized algorithms, aiming to explore its potential and practical value in improving the effectiveness of music education. The study designed a rigorous experimental plan, randomly assigning students to the experimental group and the control group and using the innovative teaching platform and traditional teaching mode for two months of music learning, respectively. The experimental results showed that the experimental group students were significantly better than the control group in terms of learning efficiency, skill improvement and creativity stimulation. Meanwhile, the satisfaction survey of students and teachers further confirms that the innovative teaching platform has received widespread praise. These findings strongly demonstrate that innovative music education teaching methods based on network control and optimized centralized algorithms have significant advantages in enhancing the effectiveness of music education.
Accurate Bandwidth and Delay Prediction for 5G Cellular Networks
Authors: Lv Jiamei , Lin Yuxiang , Hou Mingxin , Li Yeming , Gao Yi , Dong Wei
Published: February 2025

The fifth-generation (5G) has empowerd various applications. Effective bandwidth and delay prediction in 5G cellular networks are essential for many applications, such as virtual reality and holographic video streaming. However, accurate bandwidth and delay prediction in 5G networks remains a challenging task due to the short-distance coverage and frequent handover properties of 5G base stations. In this paper, we propose HYPER, a hybrid bandwidth and delay prediction approach that uses an Auto Regressive Moving Average (ARMA) time series predictive model for intra-cell prediction and a Random Forest (RF) regression model for cross-cell prediction. Our ARMA model takes prior information as its input, while the RF model further uses related network and physical features to predict future performance. We conduct a measurement study in commercial 5G networks to analyze the relationship between these features and bandwidth/delay. Moreover, we also propose a handover window adaptation algorithm to automatically adjust the handover window size and determine which model to use during handover for accurate bandwidth and delay prediction. We use commercial 5G smartphones for data collection and conducted extensive experiments in diverse urban environments. Experimental results show that HYPER can reduce the prediction error by more than 13% compared to state-of-the-art prediction approaches.
TeachVR: An Immersive Virtual Reality Framework for Computational Thinking based on Student Preferences
Authors: Wee Chyanna , Wang Lillian Yee Kiaw , Ong Huey Fang
Published: February 2025

This study presents the development of a student-centric framework for utilizing virtual reality (VR) technologies in education, specifically focusing on enhancing computational thinking skills. While numerous frameworks exist in this domain, they often lack consideration of student preferences, which are integral for fostering learner autonomy. Our proposed framework, with components developed from the constructivist learning theory, emphasises creating knowledge through interaction with the environment, focusing on autonomy, mastery, and purpose as drivers of intrinsic outcomes. Through a survey administered to hundred and fifty-seven participants, we sought to identify student-preferred strategies for learning computational thinking skills via VR interventions. Results highlighted key challenges students face when working on computational tasks are related to algorithmic and abstraction thinking. To ease the aforementioned challenges, our findings suggest a preference among students for situated-based learning approaches within VR environments. Additionally, participants recognized the importance of motivational outcomes in improving autonomy and mastery within VR-based learning tasks. Students also preferred tasks that enhanced self-efficacy, contributing to a greater sense of purpose in their learning endeavours. Overall, this investigation sets a foundation for more student-centric, constructivist, and intrinsically-based VR frameworks in education.
Knockdown of the type 1 cannabinoid receptor in the central amygdala increases both spontaneous and water deprivation-induced sodium intake in rats
Authors: Ruginsk S. G. , Greenwood M. P. , Greenwood M. , Elias L.L.K. , Murphy D , Antunes-Rodrigues J
Published: February 2025

Important inputs originating in the forebrain circumventricular organs and also in the central amygdala (CeA) trigger essential water deprivation (WD)-induced behaviors, such as thirst and sodium appetite. Together with the secretion of the neurohypophysial peptides vasopressin (AVP) and oxytocin (OT), these behavioral responses seek to maintain the normalcy of ECF osmolality and volume. Within this context, the main hypothesis tested by the present study was that CeA type 1 cannabinoid receptors (CB1Rs) were essential for the maintenance of body fluid homeostasis, particularly in response to WD challenge. We found that CeA CB1R knockdown increased spontaneous and WD-induced hypertonic saline intake, without significantly impacting water ingestion. In euhydrated rats, despite unaltered urinary volume, CB1R knockdown reduced urinary osmolality, as well diminished urinary nitrate concentrations, suggesting reduced renal sodium excretion. No relevant changes were induced by CeA CB1R knockdown on urinary parameters following WD-induced rehydration, which is consistent with unaltered AVP and OT mRNA transcription and hormone release under the same experimental conditions. Taken together, the present data support the notion that CeA CB1Rs participate in both spontaneous and WD-induced NaCl intake, without significantly affecting neuroendocrine output. Given the well described facilitatory CeA role on natriorexigenic responses, and the reported interplay between CB1Rs and gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA) within the CeA, the present findings suggest that CB1Rs may indirectly regulate sodium appetite through effects on CeA GABAergic neurotransmission.
The pathogenesis of cerebral small vessel diseases and vascular cognitive impairment
Authors: Markus Hugh S. , Joutel Anne
Published: February 2025

Cerebral small vessel disease (cSVD) is the broadly accepted term nowadays to designate a heterogeneous group of diseases caused by in situ damages of small brain vessels commonly related to aging, hypertension or genetic factors. Cardinal neuroimaging features include small (< 20 mm) infarcts or lacunes, cerebral microbleeds, white matter hyperintensities, enlarged perivascular spaces and brain atrophy. Overall, cSVD represents one of the major problems facing global society today, causing a quarter of all ischemic strokes, the vast majority of spontaneous hemorrhages, and accounting for 20% or more of all dementias. Yet, mechanisms of cSVD are still incompletely understood, and we have no effective proven treatments other than risk factor modification. Recently, major progress in understanding the underlying disease mechanisms has occurred thanks to novel approaches including advanced molecular, genetic and imaging tools. Here, we provide a comprehensive and critical appraisal of the biggest advances in our understanding of how cSVD affects the structure and function of small brain vessels, causes brain lesions and alters cognition. To set the stage, we begin by reviewing the molecular anatomy and physiology of healthy small brain vessels and report on the milestones from the medical literature, starting in the 1850s, that have laid the foundation for the “modern” definition of cSVD. We conclude by discussing the framework for clinical interventions that will emerge from these novel insights. We also highlight the outstanding questions to address and challenges to tackle to move the field forward.
Reversal of head and neck cancer risk after the cessation of use of smokeless tobacco and betel quid use: meta-analysis
Authors: Shah Kriya , Boffetta Paolo , Seyyedsalehi Monireh Sadat
Published: February 2025

The use of smokeless tobacco and betel quid is a significant risk factor for head and neck cancer (HNC) posing a major global public health concern. This meta-analysis evaluates the impact of cessation of the use of these products on HNCs risk to guide interventions. Case-control and cohort studies were found through PubMed, Scopus, and Embase databases. Two independent reviewers screened studies and then extracted data. Relative risks (RRs) and 95% confidence interval (CI) for different products cessation was calculated from raw data and meta-analyzed by using random effects models. A total of 13 studies met the inclusion criteria. Findings were predominantly derived from Asian (n=9) studies where betel quid use is widespread. Results showed reduced HNC risk following cessation of betel quid use with RR=0.66 (95% CI: 0.54 - 0.81) or without tobacco RR=0.73 (95% CI: 0.56-0.95). However, other tobacco chewing products showed a RR of 1.07 (95% CI: 0.75-1.53). Long-term cessation (≥20 years) conferred substantial benefits RR 0.37, (95% CI: 0.22-0.61, risk estimates =4). The study highlights the importance of cessation programs and targeted interventions to encourage smokeless tobacco quitting. Future research includes conducting detailed subgroup analyses based on cancer subsites and smokeless tobacco product types.
Table S6 from Clinical Efficacy of ONC201 in H3K27M-Mutant Diffuse Midline Gliomas Is Driven by Disruption of Integrated Metabolic and Epigenetic Pathways
Authors: Venneti Sriram , Kawakibi Abed Rahman , Ji Sunjong , Waszak Sebastian M. , Sweha Stefan R. , Mota Mateus , Pun Matthew , Deogharkar Akash , Chung Chan , Tarapore Rohinton S. , Ramage Samuel , Chi Andrew , Wen Patrick Y. , Arrillaga-Romany Isabel , Batchelor Tracy T. , Butowski Nicholas A. , Sumrall Ashley , Shonka Nicole , Harrison Rebecca A. , de Groot John , Mehta Minesh , Hall Matthew D. , Daghistani Doured , Cloughesy Timothy F. , Ellingson Benjamin M. , Beccaria Kevin , Varlet Pascale , Kim Michelle M. , Umemura Yoshie , Garton Hugh , Franson Andrea , Schwartz Jonathan , Jain Rajan , Kachman Maureen , Baum Heidi , Burant Charles F. , Mottl Sophie L. , Cartaxo Rodrigo T. , John Vishal , Messinger Dana , Qin Tingting , Peterson Erik , Sajjakulnukit Peter , Ravi Karthik , Waugh Alyssa , Walling Dustin , Ding Yujie , Xia Ziyun , Schwendeman Anna , Hawes Debra , Yang Fusheng , Judkins Alexander R. , Wahl Daniel , Lyssiotis Costas A. , de la Nava Daniel , Alonso Marta M. , Eze Augustine , Spitzer Jasper , Schmidt Susanne V. , Duchatel Ryan J. , Dun Matthew D. , Cain Jason E. , Jiang Li , Stopka Sylwia A. , Baquer Gerard , Regan Michael S. , Filbin Mariella G. , Agar Nathalie Y.R. , Zhao Lili , Kumar-Sinha Chandan , Mody Rajen , Chinnaiyan Arul , Kurokawa Ryo , Pratt Drew , Yadav Viveka N. , Grill Jacques , Kline Cassie , Mueller Sabine , Resnick Adam , Nazarian Javad , Allen Joshua E. , Odia Yazmin , Gardner Sharon L. , Koschmann Carl
Published: February 2025

Radiographic response versus gene expression Spearman's correlation coefficient for all protein-coding genes.
Comparative Analysis between Aspiration and Laparoscopic Deroofing of Renal Cyst Management: A Prospective Randomized Controlled Study
Authors: Reda Ahmed , Zarzour Mohamed Ali , Faragallah Mohammad
Published: February 2025

Introduction: Renal cysts are a common clinical finding necessitating a nuanced approach to management. This study explores outcomes and patient characteristics associated with two interventions for renal cysts: aspiration of renal cyst povidone-iodine sclerotherapy and laparoscopic renal cyst deroofing. Methods: A study was conducted on patients admitted to urology and nephrology hospital at Assiut University between February 2022 and December 2022. The study population included adult patients diagnosed with renal cysts. Data included demographic information, operative times, post-operative complications, and follow-up assessments. Results: Our findings revealed the effectiveness of single session povidone-iodine sclerotherapy with a high success rate of 95% and comparable to laparoscopic deroofing (98.3%); however, the patients who underwent laparoscopic deroofing had significantly longer operative times compared to those who underwent aspiration (p < 0.001). Gender did not significantly influence operative time (p = 0.583), but age exhibited a marginal association (p = 0.0667). The overall complications rate (over a period of 6 months) has no significant difference between the two groups. Re-do procedures were infrequent in both groups. Conclusion: This study showed the outcomes of two common interventions for renal cyst management. The effectiveness of a single session povidone-iodine sclerotherapy in management of symptomatic simple renal cyst in comparison to the gold standard technique of laparoscopic deroofing which is associated with longer operative times and more invasiveness. These insights can guide clinicians in selecting appropriate interventions and managing patient expectations.