bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Introduction to Paediatric Musculoskeletal Infections -A Review Article
Authors:   Department of Paediatric Orthopaedics, King George’s Medical University, Lucknow, India., Chand Suresh , Sagade Bhushan ,   Department of Paediatric Orthopaedics, Bai Jerbai Wadia Hospital for Children, Mumbai, India., Agarwal Udit ,   Department of Paediatric Orthopaedics, King George’s Medical University, Lucknow, India., Jagdale Nishant ,   Department of Paediatric Orthopaedics, Bai Jerbai Wadia Hospital for Children, Mumbai, India., Rajput Smit ,   Department of Internal Medicine, East Carolina University and ECU Health Medical Center, Greenville, North Carolina, USA.
Published: February 2025

Paediatric Musculoskeletal Infections include osteomyelitis, septic arthritis, pyomyositis, surgical site infections, tuberculosis, and fungal infections with some infrequent manifestations like purpura fulminans, necrotizing fasciitis, soft tissue abscess and septic bursitis. Osteomyelitis and septic arthritis are two common Musculoskeletal Infections. Vertebral tuberculosis is the most common form of skeletal tuberculosis. Staphylococcus aureus is the most frequent cause of Paediatric Musculoskeletal Infections, followed by streptococci. They can be classified on the basis of pathogen, anatomical site, spread, severity etc. Pathogenic organisms may reach a bone or soft tissue location by either of the three means: (a) direct inoculation from penetrating trauma or surgery, (b) contiguous spread from an adjacent soft tissue infection, (c) hematogenous spread from a distant focus of infection with hematogenous spread being the most common cause. It is a complex interplay between the host and the pathogen which plays major role in these infections. Peculiar anatomy of the metaphysis with classical hairpin loop system of the end arterioles and venous sinusoids aids in pathogen entry into the host. After successful invasion of the host, bacteria escapes the host immunity through various mechanisms, complement component pathway being the most common way. Also the various toxins and proteins secreted by bacteria plays an important role in adhesion, invasion, escape form immunity and spread of the infection. This review article helps in understanding this complex interplay between host and pathogen which ultimately results in infection

Keywords: Paediatric Musculoskeletal infections, Osteomyelitis, Pyomyositis, Septic Arthritis.
Musculoskeletal Tuberculosis in Children
Authors:   Department of Orthopaedics, Agashe Paediatric SuperSpeciality Clinic, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India., Nemuri Santoshini , Agashe Mandar ,   Department of Orthopaedics, Agashe Paediatric SuperSpeciality Clinic, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India.
Published: February 2025

Paediatric musculoskeletal tuberculosis is very important to understand as it shares similar clinical, radiological and hematologocal findings with other infectious and non-infectitious conditions . It has become a major health hazard because of its association with immunocompromised states like HIV, Diabetes mellitus and chronic renal and liver diseases. Diagnosis is delayed in paediatric musculoskeletal tuberculosis because of lack of awareness of disease , non-specific clinical and laboratory findings. TB culture is considered as the gold standard in diagnosing tuberculosis and also, detecting drug sensitivity. Because of its potential for multi-drug resistance, there is a dilemma regarding drug of choice and duration of treatment. Surgery is reserved for obtaining samples to establish diagnosis, debridement and sequestrectomy in recalcitrant infections and correction of deformities to restore joint function. This review article briefs about classical clinical presentation, atypical and multifocal musculoskeletal tuberculosis, radiological and laboratory investigations and management of paediatric musculoskeletal tuberculosis.
Musculoskeletal tuberculosis should be kept as a differential diagnosis when managing a case of musculoskeletal infection in children because of its non- specific presentation. Imaging such as MRI and advanced microbiological analysis aids in arriving correct diagnosis. Multidrug chemotherapy is mainstay of treatment. Radical curettage and, antituberculous chemotherapy followed by a period of immobilisation and rehabilitation will give excellent results
Keywords: Paediatric musculoskeletal tuberculosis, multifocal tuberculosis, Tubercular osteomyelitis
Delayed Mycotic Prosthetic Joint Infection: A Rare Case Report
Authors:   Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Baby Memorial Hospital, Kozhikode, Kerala, India,, CS Nikhil , Mammu Sharafuddeen ,   Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Fathima Hospital, Kozhikode, Kerala, India., Unnikrishnan Vishnu ,   Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Baby Memorial Hospital, Kozhikode, Kerala, India,, Sulaiman Saad ,   Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Baby Memorial Hospital, Kozhikode, Kerala, India,
Published: February 2025

Introduction: Fungal infections following total knee replacement surgeries are rare but present significant challenges in management due to their delayed diagnosis and resistance to standard antimicrobial therapies.

Case Report: This case report describes the management of a delayed prosthetic joint infection in a 65-year-old female, diagnosed as a fungal infection 4 years after total knee replacement. Initially presented with persistent knee pain, swelling, and restricted range of motion despite standard antimicrobial therapy, further investigation revealed fungal elements in synovial fluid analysis, confirming the diagnosis. The patient underwent a staged procedure involving debridement, application of antifungal and antibiotic cement spacer, followed by delayed revision surgery. A 12-week course of antifungal fluconazole therapy was administered postoperatively. Subsequent 1-year follow-ups revealed symptomatic improvement and the absence of infection recurrence.

Conclusion: This case highlights the efficacy of staged surgical interventions and targeted antifungal therapy in achieving favorable outcomes for fungal prosthetic joint infections. It underscores the importance of long-term follow-up for monitoring and surveillance in such cases.

Keywords: Prosthetic joint infection, amphotericin B, fluconazole, inflammatory markers, Candida.
Hip Fusion Takedown with Dislocation and Cup Dislodgement Requiring Revision Arthroplasty: A Case Report
Authors:   Mercy Health St. Vincent Medical Center, Toledo, Ohio, United States,, Butler Justin T , Stegelmann Samuel D ,   Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Medical City Denton, Denton, Texas, United States, Singleton Amy ,   Mercy Health St. Vincent Medical Center, Toledo, Ohio, United States,, Leibold Chris J ,   Mercy Health St. Vincent Medical Center, Toledo, Ohio, United States,, Eaddy Samuel G ,   Mercy Health St. Vincent Medical Center, Toledo, Ohio, United States,, Miller Richard M ,   Mercy Health St. Vincent Medical Center, Toledo, Ohio, United States,
Published: February 2025

Introduction: Spontaneous hip fusion is a multifactorial condition that can cause drastic functional limitations. Total hip arthroplasty (THA) can provide symptomatic improvement but leads to high rates of instability, dislocation, and revision.

Case Report: A 66-year-old woman with a long-standing history of dysplastic and spontaneously fused left hip received a fusion takedown to primary THA. She subsequently dislocated with catastrophic acetabular cup failure necessitating revision THA. She reports no pain or dislocations at 12 months post-revision.

Conclusion: Deciding to perform THA for spontaneous hip fusion should consider clinical benefit alongside increased risks of dislocation and revision. Patients with acetabular dysplasia and longer durations of fusion are at an increased risk, due to skewed anatomic landmarks, weak abductors, and altered spinopelvic parameters. However, in the case of primary THA failure, revision surgery can provide satisfactory benefits.

Keywords:Hip fusion, hip arthrodesis, hip fusion takedown, total hip arthroplasty, hip dislocation.
Stealth Navigation with iFuse-TORQ Implant for Sacroiliac Joint Fusion Technique Guide
Authors:   Department of Orthopedic Surgery, OhioHealth Doctors Hospital, OH, USA,, Lin Jia Bao , Demyan Bryan L ,   Department of Orthopedic Surgery, OhioHealth Grant Medical Center, OH, USA., Bushnell Logan M ,   Department of Orthopedic Surgery, OhioHealth Grant Medical Center, OH, USA., Turnow Morgan T ,   Department of Orthopedic Surgery, OhioHealth Doctors Hospital, OH, USA,, Taylor Benjamin C ,   Department of Orthopedic Surgery, OhioHealth Grant Medical Center, OH, USA.
Published: February 2025

Introduction: Dysfunction of the sacroiliac (SI) joint exists in nearly one-third of patients with lower back pain. There are nuances in diagnosing SI joint dysfunction with a combination of physical exam maneuvers and intra-articular injections. The management of patients with SI joint pain can include posterior pelvic fixation, which traditionally has been described using fluoroscopy to obtain safe placement of implants.

Case Report: In this technique guide, we would like to introduce a novel technique of using Stealth navigation to facilitate SI fusion with the iFuse-TORQ implant.

Conclusion: SI dysfunction is a common cause of low back pain that can be difficult to diagnose and treat. In this technique guide, we describe the successful treatment of SI pathology using the Stealth Navigation with the iFuse-TORQ implant.

Keywords: Sacroiliac joint, iliosacral screw, o-arm, stealth navigation, fusion, arthrodesis, sacroiliac joint.
Longitudinal Management of Progressive Femoral Deformities in a Pediatric Patient: A Case Study on Adaptative Surgical Interventions and Outcomes
Authors:   Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, J. N. Medical College, Faculty of Medicine, A.M.U., Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh, India., Khan Asad , Siddiqui Yasir Salam ,   Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, J. N. Medical College, Faculty of Medicine, A.M.U., Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh, India., Abbas Mohammad Baqar ,   Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, J. N. Medical College, Faculty of Medicine, A.M.U., Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh, India., Firoz Ahsan ,   Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, J. N. Medical College, Faculty of Medicine, A.M.U., Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh, India., Rahman Mohammad Arshad ,   Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, J. N. Medical College, Faculty of Medicine, A.M.U., Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh, India., Rashid Mamoon ,   Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, J. N. Medical College, Faculty of Medicine, A.M.U., Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh, India.
Published: February 2025

Introduction: Pediatric femoral deformities present unique challenges in orthopedics, requiring careful management to accommodate ongoing growth and development in young patients. This case report illustrates the longitudinal treatment of a child who experienced multiple complications following an initial femoral neck fracture in a cystic lesion, highlighting the complexity of managing such conditions over time.

Case Report: A 4-year-old child presented in 2016 with a femoral neck fracture and a cystic lesion in the proximal femur, initially managed with valgus osteotomy and dynamic compression plate fixation. Two years later, the patient exhibited a malunited fracture leading to coxa vara, which was managed by implant removal. In 2021, the child developed a bowing deformity which was corrected operatively with another osteotomy and TENS wire insertion. The most recent intervention in 2022 involved a valgus osteotomy and fixation with a dynamic hip screw to address persistent coxa vara, resulting in a successful union.

Conclusion: This case emphasizes the need for ongoing, adaptive management strategies in pediatric orthopedics, particularly for patients with complex femoral deformities. Each surgical intervention was tailored to the child’s evolving anatomical needs, with close follow-up to ensure optimal outcomes as the patient grew. The multidisciplinary approach and continuous reassessment are critical in achieving favorable long-term results in similar pediatric cases.

Keywords: Pediatric orthopedics, femoral deformities, surgical management, longitudinal case study, dynamic hip screw, valgus osteotomy, coxa vara.
Outcomes of Combined Distal Femur Plating and Retrograde Femur Nailing in Comminuted Distal Femur Fractures: Case Series of Seven Cases with 6 Months Follow-up
Authors:   Department of Orthopaedics, Dr. D.Y. Patil Medical College and Hospital, Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra, India,, Kale Sachin , Singh Shikhar ,   Department of Orthopaedics, Dr. D.Y. Patil Medical College and Hospital, Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra, India,, Vatkar Arvind ,   [2] Department of Orthopaedics, Fortis Hiranandani Hospital, Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra, India, [3] Department of Orthopaedics, MGM Medical College, Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra, India., Jayaram Rohan ,   Department of Orthopaedics, Dr. D.Y. Patil Medical College and Hospital, Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra, India,, Das Sonali ,   Department of Orthopaedics, Dr. D.Y. Patil Medical College and Hospital, Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra, India,, Verma Ashmit ,   Department of Orthopaedics, Dr. D.Y. Patil Medical College and Hospital, Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra, India,
Published: February 2025

Introduction: This study evaluates the functional outcomes of combining distal femur plating with retrograde femur nailing in treating comminuted distal femur fractures.

Case Report: A retrospective analysis was conducted on patients treated at a tertiary health care center from January 1, 2023, to November 30, 2023. The cohort comprised patients with an average age of 54.57 years (standard deviation [SD] = 13.34) and a male-to-female ratio of 3:4. The primary outcome measure was knee range of motion (ROM). At the 1.5-month follow-up, the average knee flexion was 54° (SD = 13.46). This improved to 110° (SD = 8.7) at 3 months and to 138.6° (SD = 7.34) at the 6-month follow-up. These findings indicate significant improvement in knee function over the study period. All patients showed union at fracture sites at the end of 6 months.

Conclusions: The combination of distal femur plating and retrograde femur nailing demonstrates promising functional recovery in knee ROM for patients with comminuted distal femur fractures. This surgical approach may offer an effective strategy for enhancing post-operative outcomes in this patient population.

Keywords: Distal femur fractures, combined nail and plate, bone union, knee function
Musculoskeletal Manifestations of Rare Lymphoproliferative Neoplasms: A Retrospective Case Series
Authors:   Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Phoenix, AZ, USA,, Tibbo Meagan E , Baron Max C ,   Department of Orthopedic Surgery, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA, Syros Alina ,   Department of Orthopedic Surgery, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA, Cohen Jacob ,   Department of Orthopedic Surgery, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA, Temple H Thomas ,   Department of Orthopedic Surgery, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA, Crawford Brooke ,   Department of Orthopedic Surgery, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
Published: February 2025

Introduction: Lymphoproliferative neoplasms (LPNs) can lead to diverse musculoskeletal manifestations, presenting diagnostic challenges due to their rarity and atypical clinical features.

Case Report: This retrospective case series, conducted at a tertiary care hospital, examines four patients with rare LPNs – Rosai–Dorfman disease, Kimura disease, and Castleman disease – initially misdiagnosed as nonneoplastic conditions. The study aims to underscore the importance of histopathological evaluation in achieving accurate diagnoses and initiating timely management. Results reveal diagnostic complexities, with an average of 2.5 biopsies required for accurate diagnosis.

Conclusions: In-depth case discussions highlight the unique challenges and treatment strategies for each LPN. The central theme emphasizes the critical role of histopathology in distinguishing these rare LPNs from more common musculoskeletal disorders, guiding appropriate therapeutic interventions, and optimizing patient outcomes. These cases serve as poignant examples of the diagnostic pitfalls encountered by clinicians when faced with rare LPNs, reinforcing the necessity of a nuanced approach and collaboration between clinicians and pathologists in achieving accurate diagnoses.

Keywords: Lymphoproliferative neoplasms, musculoskeletal manifestations, histopathological evaluation, diagnostic challenges, rare diseases
Arthroscopic Management of Snapping Scapular Syndrome due to Recalcitrant Scapulothoracic Bursitis – A Case Series
Authors:   Department of Orthopaedics, Shri B M Patil Medical College Hospital and Research Centre, Bijapur, Karnataka, India., Kembhavi Raghavendra , Chitten Jojin Jose ,   Department of Orthopaedics, Al Azhar Medical College and Superspeciality Hospital, Thodupuzha, Kerala, India., Inginshetty Nagesh M ,   Department of Orthopaedics, Shri B M Patil Medical College Hospital and Research Centre, Bijapur, Karnataka, India.
Published: February 2025

Introduction: Snapping scapula syndrome (SSS) is a rare pathological condition characterized by palpable and/or audible crackling sensation during scapulothoracic movements. Scapulothoracic bursitis with or without osseous lesions is commonly associated with this syndrome. The initial management is always non-operative methods with anti-inflammatory medications and physiotherapy modalities. However, if the symptoms persist beyond 3–6 months of non-surgical treatment, it should be categorized as refractory or recalcitrant bursitis and necessitate either open or arthroscopic surgical excision of the lesion.

Case Report: We successfully managed five patients with SSS with arthroscopic scapulothoracic bursectomy.

Conclusion: Arthroscopic scapulothoracic bursectomy is a successful surgical intervention for patients with scapulothoracic bursitis who do not respond to the conservative mode of management.

Keywords: Scapula dyskinesia, scapulothoracic bursitis, snapping scapula syndrome
Is Native Joint Line More Accurately Restored with Robotic Assisted Total Knee Arthroplasty than with Conventional Instruments?
Authors:   Department of Orthopaedics, Fortis Hiranandani Hospitals Vashi, Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra, India., Bhor Pramod , Pawar Sawankumar ,   Department of Orthopaedics, Fortis Hiranandani Hospitals Vashi, Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra, India., Kutumbe Dnyanada ,   Department of Orthopaedics, Fortis Hiranandani Hospitals Vashi, Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra, India., Vatkar Arvind ,   Department of Orthopaedics, Fortis Hiranandani Hospitals Vashi, Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra, India., kale Sachin ,   Department of Orthopaedics, Fortis Hiranandani Hospitals Vashi, Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra, India., Jagtap Rahul ,   Department of Orthopaedics, Fortis Hiranandani Hospitals Vashi, Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra, India.
Published: February 2025

Introduction: Changes in joint line (JL) position after total knee arthroplasty (TKA) have revealed implant failure, diminished knee function, and altered knee biomechanics. The purpose of this study was to compare the joint line restoration of robotic-assisted TKA (RA-TKA) and conventional TKA (c-TKA).

Materials and Methods: In a prospective cohort study trial, trained fellows performed radiographic analyses on patients receiving RA-TKA (group-1) and c-TKA (group-2) to quantify joint line using the adductor tubercle method. Statistical analysis was used using t-tests, with statistical significance defined as a P < 0.005.

Results: The study contained 150 RA-TKAs and 150 total C-TKAs. Both groups were comparable in demographics such as age, gender, and body mass index. On average, RA-TKAs resulted in a 1.65 ± 0.46 mm shift in the JL position, while C-TKAs resulted in a 2.52 ± 0.52 mm change (P = 0.000). The interclass correlation coefficient between the robotic and conventional groups is around 0.992.

Conclusion: RA-TKA restores the JL position better than C-TKA, which appears to depend on precise planning and ligament balancing, which is attainable with robotic-aided surgery. The clinical relevance of this statistically significant difference requires additional investigation.

Keywords: Total knee arthroplasty, joint line restoration, robotic-assisted, conventional.
Suprapatellar Technique for Tibia Fractures: Is the Fracture Level Important?
Authors:   Department of Orthopaedics, Bharatratna Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar Hospital, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India,, Yadav Sunil , Kumar Gokul ,   Department of Orthopaedics, SR at Ashwini Trauma, Cuttack, Odisha, India,, Tanpure Sanket ,   Department of Orthopaedics, Thergaon Hospital, Pune, Maharashtra, India,, Keluskar Chintamani ,   Department of Orthopaedics, KBBH Hospital, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India., Bhavsar Atul ,   Department of Orthopaedics, Thergaon Hospital, Pune, Maharashtra, India,, Kharat Sagar ,   Department of Orthopaedics, Thergaon Hospital, Pune, Maharashtra, India,
Published: February 2025

Introduction: A frequent bone fracture in falls and auto accidents is the tibial fracture. This study is prospective observational study primary aim to assess the healing duration, alignment, lower extremity functional score, and complications associated with suprapatellar (SP) tibial intramedullary nailing (IMN) for proximal, shaft, and distal tibial fractures.

Materials and Methods: Fifty-two patients (44 men and 8 women; mean age 46.9 years; range, 18–75 years) receiving semi-extended treatment using the SP method were included in the research. A solitary surgeon conducted SP IMN operations. Patients’ genders, ages, limb sides, fracture types, and classifications were noted following a minimum of a 12-month follow-up. Analysis was done on non-union, angulation, healing duration, and fracture reduction accuracy. Clinical measures were performed using the lower extremity functional score scale.

Results: In the tibia, 24 fractures occurred in the proximal third, 12 in the middle third, and 16 in the distal third. The average healing period was 7.34 months, with a range of 4–14 months. There was no statistically significant difference in healing times between the sites of the fractures (P = 0.75). There were no statistically significant variations in follow-up periods with respect to fracture locations (P = 0.62). The mean follow-up length was 15.76 months (range, 12–28 months). There was no statistically significant difference in lower extremity functional scores across the fracture site groups (P = 0.33).

Conclusion: Irrespective of fracture level, the SP IM tibia nailing has comparable functional score, a lower incidence of malalignment, shorter recovery periods, and less need for open reduction for any type of extra Articular tibia shaft fracture.

Keywords: Tibial fracture, suprapatellar nailing, lower extremity functional scoring scale.
ETHMOID SINUS OSTEOMA – CASE REPORT
Authors:   Department of Otolaryngology, Military Institute of Aviation Medicine, Warsaw, Poland, Bernat Aleksandra , Fus Maciej ,   Department of Otolaryngology, Military Institute of Aviation Medicine, Warsaw, Poland, Wojdas Andrzej ,   Department of Otolaryngology, Military Institute of Aviation Medicine, Warsaw, Poland
Published: February 2025

Abstract: Osteomas are benign bone tissue tumors, predominantly asymptomatic, which means that most cases require only observation. Large tumors, however, can cause various symptoms depending on their location.

Case Report: This study describes a case of a 63-year-old female patient with an osteoma of the right ethmoid sinus, presenting symptoms of headaches and chronic sinusitis. The lesion was completely removed using an endoscopic approach.

Discussion: The authors discuss the possibilities and risks associated with the removal of osteomas using an endoscopic approach.

Conclusions: Currently, endoscopic surgery is replacing traditional approaches due to better final outcomes.
The relationship between frailty, ethnicity and health inequality – a scoping review
Authors: Cluley Victoria , Vanhoutte Bram , Banerjee Jay , Pickard Susan
Published: February 2025

This scoping review highlights the need for research to address the intersectional relationship between racialisation, health inequality and frailty in older age. We map research addressing the relationship between frailty and ethnicity across literature exploring health inequality in order to collate findings, identify trends and highlight research gaps. Our most significant finding is the absence of attention to the role of racism despite the majority of studies identifying a positive correlation between frailty and minority ethnicity. In countries with ageing populations, ill health and frailty was generally found to strike earlier and more severely in racially minoritised groups. However, there is a paucity of research addressing ageing and ethnicity. To focus the review, we asked: how are frailty and ethnicity/race related in the current literature addressing health inequality? We map the existing literature, commenting on terminology, findings and methodology. While social, economic and cultural factors are speculated to be explanations for inequality, there has been little analysis of the association between frailty, ethnicity and socioeconomic inequality, no explicit attention to the role of racism and little qualitative research to explore the lived experience of frailty and ethnicity. Despite the contested nature of both frailty and ethnicity, the majority of studies lacked definitions of the terms used, particularly with respect to ‘identifying terms’ used for ethnicity. We call for further research (particularly qualitative research) to address frailty and ethnicity in the context of racialisation and health inequality and for critical engagement with ‘identifying terms’ used.
"Is The Scene Still Alive?": Post-Hipster Affect, Memetic Aesthetics, and the Crisis of Subcultural Authenticity
Authors: Koc Alican
Published: February 2025

Abstract: This article offers a preliminary theory of what it terms memetic aesthetics , referring to an ever-expanding multitude of niche stylistic categories that have been circulating across digital media since the early 2010s. It argues that the years following in the wake of the hipster figure in the cultural imaginary have seen a great shift whereby the authenticity-centered aesthetics of subculture have gradually been replaced by the hyperaccelerated ephemerality of memetic aesthetics. The article begins by describing a prevalent sense of nostalgia for the style and attitude of the hipster era in contemporary popular culture, reading this post-hipster affect as a symptom of the shift between subcultural and memetic aesthetics. Examining the close historical parallels between the gradual decline in belief in subcultural authenticity, the birth of postsubcultural studies, and the emergence of the hipster, the article describes how the phenomenon of hipsterism was animated and unified by a frenzied pursuit of subcultural authenticity that is no longer viable in the age of social media. It goes on to provide a theoretical outline of memetic aesthetics, highlighting their distinction from subcultures on the basis of their digital modes of circulation, hyperfragmentary nature, and lack of reliance in a notion of subcultural authenticity. The article concludes by discussing the significance of the scene concept within postsubcultural studies, suggesting that the cultural salience of hipster nostalgia may pertain to a change in the quality of sceneness between subcultural and memetic aesthetics.
More Limits in Jain Environmental Ethics
Authors: Dickstein Jonathan
Published: February 2025

Unlike anthropocentric, zoocentric, speciocentric, or biocentric perspectives, Jainism advances a sentiocentric view that grounds inherent worth in an organism’s capacity to feel, a capacity present in humans, animals, plants, and even microbes. Drawing on the insights of Christopher Framarin and Kristi Wiley, this article explores Jain sentiocentrism and examines it alongside “modernist” views that question the sentience attributed to certain organisms in the traditional Jain taxonomy. The article has three aims: (1) to demonstrate how the Jain sentiocentric system endures as a strong position in contemporary animal and environmental ethics; (2) to constructively critique Jain assertions of sentience in microbes, plants, and possibly some animals; (3) to ask if insentient organisms could still qualify as having inherent worth according to an alternative standard than sentience, and what this question might mean for a “modernist” reconsideration of Jain environmental ethics.
Nishitani’s Emptiness and Relational Thinking: Towards a Philosophical Pedagogy
Authors: Timmenga Friso , Zande Indira van der
Published: February 2025

This paper emphasizes the value of śūnyatā, through the lens of Japanese philosopher Nishitani Keiji, in fostering global philosophical dialogue. First, we highlight how Nishitani interprets śūnyatā, or ‘emptiness’, as a fundamental relationality, distinct from substantiality. The second section situates Nishitani’s thought within the rising paradigm of relational thinking, now influential in philosophy, feminism, social sciences, and interdisciplinary studies. We note that these discourses have been largely shaped by Anglo-European thinkers, overlooking contributions from philosophers like Nishitani. In the final section of this paper, we illustrate how Nishitani’s concept of ‘emptiness’ could form the foundation for an intercultural philosophical method that allows for a global dialogue moving beyond the critique of existing discourses. This ultimately implies an understanding of philosophy as pedagogical practice.
Polarization and space multiplexing metasurface for high-efficiency holography
Authors: Yang Silei , Zhu Ziyi , Fu Xiaojian , Wang Peng , Liu Yujie , Wu Junwei
Published: February 2025

This paper presents a fast and efficient design method for generating multiplanar, dual-linearly polarized holographic patterns in the near-field of a Huygens metasurface when illuminated by incident waves with matching polarizations. The propagation kernel of the traditional Gerchberg-Saxton (GS) algorithm is modified to utilize Green’s function (DGF), and a dynamic control factor is introduced to adjust the uniformity of the pattern amplitude. This modification results in an imaging phase distribution, hereby designated as the improved weighted Gerchberg–Saxton algorithm (GS-W). The use of a Huygens metasurface with high transmittance and large phase coverage increases the imaging efficiency of the incident energy, exceeding 32%. As proof of the concept, we fabricate the aforementioned meta-device, which contains 40 × 40 meta-atoms, each with a length and width of 6 mm (0.5λ at 25 GHz) and thickness in the longitudinal direction of 1.8 mm. Both the calculation and simulation results show that the quality factors of all reconstructed patterns can exceed more than 42%.
Enhanced photonic spin Hall shift and scattering efficiency through chiral nanoparticles
Authors: Zhang Hao , Khan Aizaz , Ahmad Zeeshan , Gao Lei , Novitsky Andrey , Xu Yadong , Gao Dongliang
Published: February 2025

The photonic spin Hall effect, arising from the spin-orbit interaction of light, has attracted rapt scientific interest owing to its applicability. Due to the limited strength of the spin-orbit interaction, the resulting photonic spin Hall shift (PSHS) is very small. In addition, the low scattering intensity hinders the applicability of the PSHS in higher-dimensional systems. Here, we explore the effect of the chirality of the particle on the far-field PSHS and the scattered intensity. We demonstrate that the chiral particle strongly supports quasi-dual symmetry when the handedness of the incident wave and the sphere match, in contrast to unmatched handedness. Under dual transformation, the spin-orbit interaction is amplified, resulting in enhanced PSHS with a characteristic redshift. Meanwhile, the far-field scattering intensity is optimized without changing the geometry of the particle. The strong spin-orbit interaction in the near-field arises due to the optical singularities in the far-vicinity, which leads to a large effective transverse force. Our results not only provide a route to tune the PSHS and scattering efficiency but might have the potential to characterize the degree of handedness of the nanoparticle.
A recombinase-activated ribozyme to knock down endogenous gene expression in zebrafish
Authors: Juan Thomas , Molina Tonatiuh , Xie Lihan , Papadopoulou Sofia , Cardoso Bárbara , Jha Shivam Govind , Stainier Didier Y.R.
Published: February 2025

Precise regulation of gene expression is essential to understand a wide range of biological processes. Control over gene expression can be achieved using site-directed recombinases and endonucleases whose efficiency is variable and dependent on the genomic context. Here, we develop a self-cleaving ribozyme-based tool to control mRNA levels of endogenous targets in zebrafish. Using an in vivo reporter strategy, we first show that inserting the T3H48 self-cleaving ribozyme in an intron enables rapid pre-mRNA cleavage, with up to 20-fold reduction in expression, and that this ribozyme displays superior activity compared with other ribozymes. We then inserted the T3H48 ribozyme in the second intron of the albino gene using a CRISPR/Cas9 strategy and observed a pigmentation phenotype similar to that in the mutant. Using a base-editing strategy to inactivate the ribozyme, we also show that this phenotype is reversible, illustrating the specificity of the approach. In addition, we generated a Flippase- and Cre-activatable version of the T3H48 ribozyme, called RiboFlip, to control the mRNA levels of the albino gene. RiboFlip activation induced mRNA knockdown and also recapitulated the albino mutant phenotype. Furthermore, we show that a Cre- and Dre-controllable Gal4/UAS reporter in the RiboFlip cassette can label knocked-down cells independently of the expression of the target gene. Altogether, we introduce the RiboFlip cassette as a flexible tool to control endogenous gene expression in a vertebrate model and as an alternative to existing conditional knockdown strategies.
Assessing the ecological resilience of Ebola virus in Africa and potential influencing factors based on a synthesized model
Authors: Shen Li , Song Jiawei , Zhou Yibo , Yuan Xiaojie , Seery Samuel , Fu Ting , Liu Xihao , Liu Yihong , Shao Zhongjun , Li Rui , Liu Kun
Published: February 2025

Background

The Ebola epidemic has persisted in Africa since it was firstly identified in 1976. However, few studies have focused on spatiotemporally assessing the ecological adaptability of this virus and the influence of multiple factors on outbreaks. This study quantitatively explores the ecological adaptability of Ebola virus and its response to different potential natural and anthropogenic factors from a spatiotemporal perspective.

Methodology

Based on historical Ebola cases and relevant environmental factors collected from 2014 to 2022 in Africa, the spatiotemporal distribution of Ebola adaptability is characterized by integrating four distinct ecological models into one synthesized spatiotemporal framework. Maxent and Generalized Additive Models were applied to further reveal the potential responses of the Ebola virus niche to its ever-changing environments.

Findings

Ebola habitats appear to aggregate across the sub-Saharan region and in north Zambia and Angola, covering approximately 16% of the African continent. Countries presently unaffected by Ebola but at increasing risk include Ethiopia, Tanzania, Côte d’Ivoire, Ghana, Cameroon, and Rwanda. In addition, among the thirteen key influencing factors, temperature seasonality and population density were identified as significantly influencing the ecological adaptability of Ebola. Specifically, those regions were prone to minimal seasonal variations in temperature. Both the potential anthropogenic influence and vegetation coverage demonstrate a rise-to-decline impact on the outbreaks of Ebola virus across Africa.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest new ways to effectively respond to potential Ebola outbreaks in Sub-Saharan Africa. We believe that this integrated modeling approach and response analysis provide a framework that can be extended to predict risk of other worldwide diseases from a similar epidemic study perspective.
Physical and motivational effects of Exergames in healthy adults—A scoping review
Authors: Hoffmann Katrin , Wiemeyer Josef , Martin-Niedecken Anna Lisa
Published: February 2025

Exergames have the potential to be used as physical-cognitive training tools. Although numerous studies investigated the physical and motivational effects of Exergaming, a comprehensive summary of training effects in healthy adults is still missing. This scoping review aims to identify available evidence and research gaps on absolute and relative effects of Exergame training on physical indicators (effectiveness) and motivation (attractiveness) compared to no or conventional training in healthy adults. A systematic literature search was performed in EBSCOhost, WoS CC, SURF, and Science Research for studies meeting the following criteria: a) randomized controlled trials with Exergames compared to conventional training and/ or no treatment; b) healthy adults (age: 18 to 64 years); c) Exergame training interventions; d) assessment of pre-post differences, primary outcomes: endurance, strength, flexibility, speed, balance, sensorimotor coordination, sports skills, player experience; secondary outcomes: adverse events, physical activity level, attitudes, and knowledge. Methodological quality of included studies was assessed using the PEDro Scale. Charted data were categorized according to the PICOS framework. Mean differences, 95% confidence intervals, and effect sizes (ES) were calculated for continuous outcomes. Evidence Maps were created to illustrate the estimated Risk of Bias, estimated effect, and sample sizes. Eighteen publications with 907 participants were included. The number of studies per outcome was low (2 to 9balance:). Studies on coordination and knowledge were lacking. No study analyzed the relative effects of speed training with Exergames. Absolute effects of Exergame training ranged from no to large effects. Significant ES were consistently found for skill training. Negative effects were found for individual parameters. Relative effects of Exergame training ranged from no to large effects (one exception). A moderate absolute effect favoring traditional training was found for skill training. The remaining results suggest that Exergaming elicited similar training effects compared to conventional training. A high variance of applied training, corresponding training parameters (FITT-VP), outcome measures, as well as methodological deficits and incomplete reporting were identified in included studies. Therefore, a lack of high-quality studies and reviews was identified. Future research should conduct high quality RCT studies analyzing the effectiveness and attractiveness in Exergames. In addition, more suitable, well-designed Exergames should be developed.
Introduction risk of fire ants through container cargo in ports: Data integration approach considering a logistic network
Authors: Homma Shota , Murakami Daisuke , Hosokawa Shinya , Kanefuji Koji
Published: February 2025

Invasive alien species introduced to ports through cargo containers have destroyed the biodiversity worldwide. The introduction risk at ports must be estimated to control the early stages of invasion. However, limited data are available for this estimation in the introduction stage. Spatial statistical models have been used to address the lack of information by considering the observations of neighbors or integrating multiple data sources based on the assumption of spatial correlation. Unlike natural dispersal, methods to address these issues have not yet been established, because the spatial correlation between ports based on the geographical distance is not assumed for human-mediated species introduction through container cargo. Herein, we propose a multivariate conditional autoregressive model that considers a logistic network in order to integrate multiple data sources and estimate introduction risk. A relationship between locations based on logistics connectivity is assumed rather than the spatial correlation based on the geographical distance used in the past. Hierarchical Bayesian models integrating data through the network were implemented for two fire ant species (Solenopsis invicta and Solenopsis geminata) observed in Japanese ports. We observed that the proposed joint models improved the fit compared to conventional models estimated from a single dataset. This finding suggests that integrating data from multiple species or data types based on a network helps to address the lack of observations. This is one of the first studies to demonstrate the effectiveness of multivariate conditional autoregressive model in considering biological invasion networks and contributes to the development of reliable biosecurity strategies.
Mechanical properties and microstructure of pre-treated luffa fiber reinforced cement mortar
Authors: Yang Renqiang , Guan Zhengjun , Zhang Lihua , Shu Yong
Published: February 2025

In this work, leveraging the enhanced wear resistance, toughness, and renewability of luffa fiber, pretreated luffa fiber was applied into cement mortar to investigate the impact of different fiber contents and sizes on mortar performance. Meanwhile, the fiber-mortar interface fusion and hydration products were systemically analysed by performing SEM-EDS (scanning electron microscopy-energy spectrum analysis) and CT (Computed Tomography) tomography measurements. From our analysis, it was demonstrated that pretreated luffa fibers could significantly enhance the strength, shrinkage resistance, and toughness of cement mortar. When the fiber content was 1% and the length was 1 cm, the 28-day compressive and flexural strengths of the cement mortar reached 57.63 MPa and 9.68 MPa, respectively, representing an increase of 10.81% and 9.47% compared to ordinary cement mortar. When the fiber content was 1%, with fiber lengths of 1 cm and 2 cm, the 56-day drying shrinkage rates of the cement mortar were 2.78% and 6.09%, respectively. This result corresponds to a reduction in shrinkage by factors of 7.17 and 3.27, respectively, compared to standard cement mortar. Additionally, with a fiber content of 1% and lengths ranging from 1 to 3 cm, the load-deflection behaviour of luffa fiber cement mortar was noticeably superior to that of conventional mortar. The SEM-EDS images revealed that cement mortar containing 1 cm fibers had a substantial presence of tinfoil-like C-S-H (hydrated calcium silicate) and needle-like AFt (ettringite) structures. In addition, better integration with the cement mortar compared to other fiber lengths was demonstrated. CT tomography showed that luffa fibers were concentrated in large amounts at the top and bottom of the test samples, with an increase in voids and fiber agglomeration as the fiber content increased. In summary, when the luffa fiber content was 1% and the fiber length was 1 cm, the mechanical performance of cement mortar could be effectively enhanced and fiber agglomeration can be mitigated, suggesting potential applications in building materials.
The effect of SGLT2 inhibitor in patients with type 2 diabetes and atrial fibrillation
Authors: Cho Yongin , Shin Sung-Hee , Park Min-Ae , Suh Young Ju , Park Sojeong , Jang Ji-Hun , Kim Dae-Young , Kim So Hun
Published: February 2025

Background

Sodium glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors improve clinical outcomes in several populations including type 2 diabetes (T2D), chronic renal insufficiency, and heart failure (HF). However, limited data exist on their effects on atrial fibrillation (AF).

Methods

We conducted a retrospective cohort study using the National Health Insurance Service database. A total of 4,771 patients with T2D and AF who were newly prescribed SGLT2 inhibitors or DPP4 inhibitors were selected and matched in a 1:2 ratio by propensity score with 37 confounding variables. We assessed the effect of SGLT2 inhibitors on the composite outcome of either HF hospitalization or death.

Results

Over a median follow-up of 31 months, patients on SGLT2 inhibitors were associated with a lower risk of hospitalizations for HF or mortality compared to those on DPP4 inhibitors (HR 0.61; 95% CI 0.44–0.85; P = 0.004). SGLT2 inhibitor use was also associated with a lower risk of mortality (HR 0.61; 95% CI 0.39–0.94; P = 0.025) and CV mortality (HR 0.43; 95% CI 0.21–0.86; P = 0.018), but not of MI (HR 1.22 [95% CI 0.72–2.09]; P = 0.461) or stroke (HR 1.00 [95% CI 0.75–1.33]; P = 0.980). The incidence of hospitalizations for HF, although statistically insignificant, tended to be lower in the SGLT2 inhibitor group (HR 0.63 [95% CI 0.39–1.02]; P = 0.062).

Conclusion

In a nationwide cohort of patients with T2D and AF, SGLT2 inhibitor was associated with a lower risk of mortality, which may suggest that SGLT2 inhibitors may be considered as the first-line antidiabetic medication in patients with T2D and AF.
Electrochemically reduced graphene oxide integrated with carboxylated-8-carboxamidoquinoline: A platform for highly sensitive voltammetric detection of Zn(II) ion by screen-printed carbon electrode
Authors: Tan Ling Ling , Mohamad Nur Syamimi , Hassan Nurul Izzaty , Goh Choo Ta
Published: February 2025

Zinc has been demonstrated to boost immune response during SAR-CoV-2 infection, where it prevents coronavirus multiplication. Clinical investigations have testified to its beneficial effects on respiratory health and its deficiency may reduce immune function. A highly sensitive detection of Zn(II) ion via differential pulse voltammetry (DPV) utilizing an environmentally friendly modified screen-printed carbon electrode (SPCE) of electrochemically reduced graphene oxide (ErGO) embedded with carboxylated-8-carboxamidoquinoline (CACQ) as Zn(II) chelating ligand. The green CACQ/ErGO-modified SPCE was characterized by spectroscopy techniques, such as Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, and field-emission scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive X-ray (FESEM-EDX). The modified electrode-solution interface was studied by electrochemical cyclic voltammetry (CV) and DPV methods. The CACQ-modified wrinkled ErGO electrode conferred a large surface-to-volume ratio with multiple binding sites resulting in greater opportunity for multiple dative covalent binding events with Zn(II) via coordination chemistry, and considerably accelerated the electron transfer rate at the electrode surface. The green Zn(II) sensor demonstrated a quick response time (60 s), broad linear range [1 pM-1 μM Zn(II) ion], a limit of detection (LOD) of 0.53 pM, 35 days of storage period (≥80% of its initial response retained), good reproducibility [relative standard deviation (RSD) = 3.4%], and repeatability (RSD = 4.4%). The developed electrode was applied to determine Zn(II) ion concentration in dietary supplement samples, and the results were in good agreement with those obtained from inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS).