bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Developing HIV indicators for clinical care quality assessment: relevance and practicality evaluated by healthcare practitioners in South Africa and Democratic Republic of Congo
Authors: Muzumbukilwa Tambwe Willy , Manimani Riziki Gyslain , Vagiri Rajesh Vikram , Nlooto Manimbulu Zephy , Bihehe Masemo Dieudonne , Mushebenge Aganze Gloire Aime
Published: December 2024

Background

The use of quality indicators in healthcare systems is one of the factors that improve the quality of health services. However, indicators for assessing HIV clinical care in the context of low- and middle-income countries are not fully explored. Some existing indicators were established within the context of developed countries and are primarily defined for community care, with limited emphasis on the hospital setting. Additionally, these indicators often do not account for the local practicality and relevance of quality measures in the context of low- and middle-income countries.

Aim

To assess the clinical significance and practical applicability of these indicators from the perspective of healthcare professionals specialising in HIV care in South Africa and Democratic Republic of Congo.

Methods

After performing a systematic review of quality indicators employed in the evaluation of clinical care for individuals with HIV, we conducted an observational, cross-sectional study. In this research, 30 physicians filled out two questionnaires with a core set of indicators, to establish the most pertinent and practically indicators for evaluation of the HIV clinical care. A Likert scale was used to rank the indicators. Kendall’s tau-B rank correlation analysis was also performed.

Results

From the initial list of 88 quality indicators, 43 were identified as the most relevant and practical in HIV clinical care. Healthcare professionals deemed the monitoring and therapy domain to be the most pertinent and useful indicators out of the seven different clinical domains, followed by the functional organisational structure domain.

Conclusion

This instrument may be a tool for healthcare professionals and hospital administrators to improve the quality of HIV clinical care.
Efficacy of quality improvement interventions on antibiotic prescription practices for ventilator-associated pneumonia at a tertiary care centre: a prospective pre–post interventional study
Authors: Kumar Vijay , Biswas Ratnadeep , Ojha Vishnu Shankar , Kumar Sanjeev , Sarfraz Asim
Published: December 2024

Background

Ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) is a prevalent nosocomial infection in the intensive care unit (ICU), significantly increasing patient morbidity, mortality, and healthcare costs. Effective management is essential, particularly in the context of antimicrobial resistance and the frequent use of antibiotics in ICUs.

Methods

This prospective pre–post interventional study was conducted in the medical ICU of a tertiary care centre, over 6 months. Adult patients diagnosed with VAP and receiving antibiotics for more than 48 hours were included. The study involved three phases: preintervention (baseline antibiotic prescription audit), intervention (educational sessions, multidisciplinary meetings and tailored feedback) and postintervention (follow-up audit). Data analysis included Kaplan-Meier survival curves and statistical comparisons of ICU stay durations.

Results

In the preintervention phase, the median treatment duration was 24 days, while the postintervention phase reduced this to 17 days. Kaplan-Meier curves showed improved survival probabilities and shorter ICU stays in the postintervention phase. The mean ICU stay decreased significantly from 24 days preintervention to 11.3 days postintervention (p=0.027). Mortality rates also improved, with 38.5% discharged and 61.5% deaths postintervention, compared with 23.5% discharged and 76.5% deaths preintervention. Antibiotic prescription patterns shifted towards more targeted therapy, adhering better to culture and sensitivity results and reducing the use of broad-spectrum antibiotics and polypharmacy.

Conclusion

Quality improvement interventions significantly improved VAP management by reducing treatment duration, ICU stay and mortality rates. Educational sessions, multidisciplinary collaboration and tailored feedback enhanced antibiotic prescription practices, highlighting the importance of continuous quality improvement in ICU settings. Further research and sustained efforts in antimicrobial stewardship are essential to combat VAP and improve patient outcomes.
TFAP2Eis implicated in central nervous system, orofacial and maxillofacial anomalies
Authors: Kalanithy Jeshurun C , Mingardo Enrico , Stegmann Jil D , Dhakar Ramgopal , Dakal Tikam Chand , Rosenfeld Jill A , Tan Wen-Hann , Coury Stephanie A , Woerner Audrey C , Sebastian Jessica , Levy Paul A , Fleming Leah R , Waffenschmidt Lea , Lindenberg Tobias T , Yilmaz Öznur , Channab Khadija , Babra Bimaljeet K , Christ Andrea , Eiberger Britta , Hölzel Selina , Vidic Clara , Häberlein Felix , Ishorst Nina , Rodriguez-Gatica Juan E , Pezeshkpoor Behnaz , Kupczyk Patrick A , Vanakker Olivier M , Loddo Sara , Novelli Antonio , Dentici Maria L , Becker Albert , Thiele Holger , Posey Jennifer E , Lupski James R , Hilger Alina C , Reutter Heiko M , Merz Waltraut M , Dworschak Gabriel C , Odermatt Benjamin
Published: December 2024

Background

Previous studies in mouse,Xenopusand zebrafish embryos show strongtfap2eexpression in progenitor cells of neuronal and neural crest tissues suggesting its involvement in neural crest specification. However, the role of human transcription factor activator protein 2 (TFAP2E)in human embryonic central nervous system (CNS), orofacial and maxillofacial development is unknown.

Methods

Through a collaborative work, exome survey was performed in families with congenital CNS, orofacial and maxillofacial anomalies. Exome variant prioritisation promptedTFAP2Egene for functional analysis in zebrafish embryos. Embryonic morphology and development were assessed after antisense morpholino (MO) knockdown (KD), CRISPR/Cas9 knockout and overexpression oftfap2ein fluorescent zebrafish reporter lines using in vivo microscopy. Computational structural protein modelling of the identified human variants was performed.

Results

In total, exome survey identified novel or ultra-rare heterozygous missense variants inTFAP2Ein seven individuals from five independent families with predominantly CNS, orofacial and maxillofacial anomalies. One variant was found de novo and another variant segregated in an affected multiplex family. Protein modelling of the identified variants indicated potential distortion of TFAP2E in the transactivation or dimerisation domain. MO KD and CRISPR/Cas9 knockout oftfap2ein zebrafish revealed hydrocephalus and a significant reduction of brain volume, consistent with a microencephaly phenotype. Furthermore, mRNA overexpression ofTFAP2Eindicates dosage-sensitive phenotype expression. In addition, zebrafish showed orofacial and maxillofacial anomalies followingtfap2eKD, recapitulating the human phenotype.

Conclusion

Our human genetic data and analysis of Tfap2e manipulation in zebrafish indicate a potential role ofTFAP2Ein human CNS, orofacial and maxillofacial anomalies.
Deaf futurity: designing and innovating hearing aids
Authors: Virdi Jaipreet
Published: December 2024

One of the tenets of a posthuman vision is the eradication of disability through technology. Within this site of ‘no future’, as Alison Kafer describes, the disabled body is merged with artificial intelligence technology or transformed into a prosthetic superhuman. These imaginative possibilities are materialised in a future-oriented mindset in contemporary technological innovation, including hearing aids and other devices—such as vibrating vests to ‘feel sounds’ or sign language gloves, what design critic Liz Jackson defines as ‘disability dongles’—designed to bypass deafness that simultaneously provide a ‘cure’ and create a ‘post-deaf reality’. Bringing together material culture with crip futurity, history of science, medicine and technology (HSTM), this paper investigates how hearing devices for deaf people have embodied futurity through design and technological features. While mid-20th century analogue hearing aids incorporated fashion through colour and style, 21st century digital hearing aids favour a sleek, industrial aesthetic borrowed from modern architecture, jewellery and automotive design. Yet discretion remains a persistent and common design feature, meant to diminish obvious symptoms of deafness. Applying what I refer to as the ‘disabled gaze’—an autonomous claiming of identity that draws attention to, rather than camouflages, disability—this paper attempts to understand how expanding the breadth of hearing aid design beyond discretion will open possibilities for imagining deaf futurity to radically disintegrate ableist stereotypes and transform how disabled people are represented in society.
“That’s me at my best”: perspectives of older adults on involvement in technology research
Authors: Martin Susanna E , Zhang Cindy C , Tam Mallorie T , Robillard Julie M
Published: December 2024

Creating assistive technology for older adults requires a deep understanding of their needs, values and preferences. Human-centred approaches can be used to engage older adults in technology research to help ensure that end solutions are ethically aligned, relevant and responsive to their priorities. However, the value of cocreation is not universally acknowledged. Older adults continue to receive negative stereotyping and are limited from engaging in research. With the growing demand for assistive technologies that effectively meet end-user needs, it is important that we deepen our knowledge about engagement and promote inclusion of older adults in technology research. To learn more, we asked members of a research advisory group for assistive technologies, specifically social robots, to tell us about their experiences of engagement and the impact it has on their lives, to speculate whether participation in research may promote human flourishing. Our findings reveal that engagement is more than knowledge exchange: it is a multifaceted, dynamic process that creates rich and meaningful experiences for older adults. Experiences of engagement dovetail with interpretations of flourishing and improved well-being, which include outcomes related to empowerment, autonomy and connectedness to self and others. Older adults also report finding purpose and satisfaction in knowing that their contributions to research may be used to develop technologies that can benefit others. This work amplifies the voice of lived experiences to deepen our understanding of the impacts of participation and prompts us to reimagine how older adults may be meaningfully engaged in technology research.
Changes in systolic blood pressure during hospitalisation and bleeding events after percutaneous coronary intervention
Authors: Otsuka Yasuhiro , Ishii Masanobu , Ikebe So , Nakamura Taishi , Tsujita Kenichi , Matoba Tetsuya , Kohro Takahide , Oba Yusuke , Kabutoya Tomoyuki , Kario Kazuomi , Imai Yasushi , Kiyosue Arihiro , Mizuno Yoshiko , Nochioka Kotaro , Nakayama Masaharu , Iwai Takamasa , Miyamoto Yoshihiro , Sato Hisahiko , Akashi Naoyuki , Fujita Hideo , Nagai Ryozo
Published: December 2024

Background

Hypertension is a risk factor for bleeding events and is included in the HAS-BLED (Hypertension, Abnormal renal/liver function, Stroke, Bleeding history or predisposition, Labile INR, Elderly, Drugs/Alcohol concomitantly)

score. However, the effects of blood pressure (BP) and changes in BP on bleeding events in patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) remain poorly understood. This study is aimed to investigate the relationship between systolic BP (SBP) changes during hospitalisation and bleeding events in patients undergoing PCI.

Methods

From the Clinical Deep Data Accumulation System database, a multicentre database encompassing seven tertiary medical hospitals in Japan that includes data for patient characteristics, medications, laboratory tests, physiological tests, cardiac catheterisation and PCI treatment, data for 6351 patients undergoing PCI between April 2013 and March 2019 were obtained. The study population was categorised into three groups based on the changes in SBP during hospitalisation: (1) elevated BP (≥20 mm Hg), (2) no change (≥−20 to <20 mm Hg) and (3) decreased BP (<−20 mm Hg) groups. The primary outcome was a 3-year major bleeding event defined as moderate or severe bleeding according to the Global Use of Streptokinase and t-PA for Occluded Coronary Arteries bleeding criteria.

Results

The elevated BP group exhibited significantly lower SBP at admission and higher SBP at discharge (p<0.001). Multivariable Cox hazard regression models showed that elevated BP was associated with a high risk of bleeding events (HR: 1.885; 95% CI, 1.294 to 2.748). The multivariable logistic regression model identified female sex, chronic coronary syndrome, peripheral artery disease and chronic kidney disease as independent factors associated with elevated BP.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that BP management is essential to prevent bleeding events after PCI.
Different disease activity trajectories in early axial spondyloarthritis lead to significantly different long-term outcomes: a trajectory-based analysis of the DESIR cohort over 10 years
Authors: Portier Elodie , Benattar Leslie , Resche-Rigon Matthieu , Dougados Maxime , Gossec Laure , Molto Anna
Published: December 2024

Introduction

The study aimed to identify and describe disease activity trajectories over 10 years in patients with recent-onset axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA) and determine their impact on long-term outcomes.

Methods

This prospective, multicentre study (Devenir des Spondylarthropathies Indifférenciées Récentes cohort, ClinicalTrials.gov NCT

) followed patients with early axSpA for 10 years. Only patients with at least three Axial Spondylitis Disease Activity Score (ASDAS) values were included. Long-term outcomes assessed were TNF inhibitors (TNFi) exposure, structural progression, function (Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Functional Index (BASFI) and Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Metrology Index), quality of life (36-items Short Form Survey), sick leave days and cardiovascular (CV) events. ASDAS trajectories were identified using k-means clustering. Multinomial multivariable regression estimated associations between baseline characteristics and trajectories. Long-term outcomes for each trajectory were described.

Results

Among 601 patients, five ASDAS trajectories were identified: persistent low disease activity/remission (tA), clinically important improvement (tD) and persistent moderate (tB), high (tC) or very high (tE) disease activity. Patients in tA were more likely to be male, have a university degree, have white-collar jobs, have positive HLA B27 status and have less fibromyalgia. Trajectory tE was linked to poorer function (BASFI 50/100 vs 7/100 for lower ASDAS trajectory), higher TNFi exposure (74% vs 29%) and more CV events (5.7% vs 0). Structural progression was low but comparable across trajectories, except for higher sacroiliac joint progression in tB.

Conclusion

The k-means method revealed distinct disease activity trajectories in axSpA. Higher disease activity trajectories were associated with a higher prevalence of fibromyalgia and poorer outcomes, except for structural progression, which was comparable across trajectories.
A Multiple Attention Layer-shareable Method for Link Prediction in Multilayer Networks
Authors: Wang Huan , Teng Yu , Qin Lingsong , Guo Xuan , Hu Po
Published: December 2024

Link prediction in multilayer networks aims to predict missing links at the target layer by incorporating structural information from both auxiliary layers and the target layer. Existing methods tend to learn layer-specific knowledge to maximize the link prediction performance on a specific network layer. However, they have difficulty incorporating multilayer structural information to improve the link prediction performance. Therefore, we propose a Multiple Attention Layer-shareable Method (MALM) for link prediction in multilayer networks, which consists of a feature encoder, a knowledge learner, and a fusion predictor. The feature encoder introduces multiple attention mechanisms to encode the feature representations of links by differentiating the importance of structural information for each link. In cooperation with the feature encoder, the knowledge learner splits the link prediction tasks into different layers and employs meta-learning to learn layer-shareable knowledge from these link prediction tasks. Finally, the fusion predictor combines the learned layer-shareable knowledge with the layer-specific knowledge at the target layer for link prediction. Experiments on real-world datasets demonstrate that the proposed MALM outperforms existing state-of-the-art baselines in link prediction in multilayer networks.
Novel endocytosis inhibitors block entry of HIV-1 Tat into neural cells
Authors: Szewczyk-Roszczenko Olga Klaudia , Roszczenko Piotr , Shmakova Anna , Yushyn Ihor , Holota Serhii , Karpenko Olexandr , Czarnomysy Robert , Bielawska Anna , Vassetzky Yegor , Lesyk Roman , Bielawski Krzysztof
Published: December 2024

This study identifies novel rhodadyn-based inhibitors, Les-6631 and Les-6633, which selectively block dynamin’s GTPase activity while sparing clathrin-mediated pathways. They effectively inhibit cellular uptake, protect neural cells from HIV-1 Tat-induced oxidative stress, and reduce mitochondrial and DNA damage. Their selective dynamin inhibition and antioxidant properties highlight their therapeutic potential for neurodegeneration and viral infections, offering cell protection without disrupting essential endocytic functions.
Applying the LATER model to reaction time data: an open-source toolkit
Authors: Anderson Andrew J. , Mannion Damien J. , Quiroga Maria del Mar , Tescari Edoardo
Published: December 2024

Analyzing reaction time distributions provides a powerful tool for investigating decision-making processes. Here we describe an open-source toolbox to allow the Linear Approach to Threshold with Ergodic Rate (LATER) model, the simplest principled model linking reaction times and decisions, to be applied to empirical reaction time data, including by clinicians and scientists without any programming experience.
A New Method for Suppressing Liquid Sloshing in Rectangular Tanks Using a Submerged Pendulum Wall System
Authors: Razavi Mojtaba , Alipour Mehdi B. , Ashrafzadeh Fedra , Tariverdilo Saeed
Published: December 2024

Water storage tanks are critical infrastructure that requires maintenance to ensure they function efficiently. Earthquake‐induced sloshing and hydrodynamic pressures can cause significant stress and damage in liquid storage tanks. Various methods have been used to reduce sloshing effects in these structures. This study proposes a new method to reduce the sloshing of partially filled rectangular water storage tanks during earthquake ground motions. A pendulum steel wall system is used to create a sloshing control system. The hydrodynamic equation of motion for these systems is derived analytically using the velocity potential function. Eight different ground motions, categorized as near‐fault and far‐fault, were chosen to analyze the dynamic responses of liquid storage tanks equipped with this system. The study also examines the effect of different wall connection placements relative to the water’s free surface on the system’s performance. The results, in terms of wave elevation, base shear, and base moment, show that the submerged pendulum wall system is more successful in reducing base shear and base moment levels than wave elevation. The study also recommends the optimal connection location in the tanks.
Floor of the Mouth Hemorrhage Following Dental Implant Placement or Guided Bone Regeneration (GBR) in the Atrophic Interforaminal Mandible
Authors: Sfondrini Domenico , Marelli Stefano , Patriarca Rachele , Scribante Andrea , Preda Lorenzo , Savioli Gabriele , Novelli Giorgio , Bardazzi Alessandro
Published: December 2024

The authors present two cases of mouth floor hemorrhage consequences of implant placement within the atrophic anterior mandible. In one patient, the implant placement was associated with the guided bone regeneration (GBR) technique. This serious complication has been widely described in the literature, especially in the anterior mandible area. In cases of bone resorption, the edentulous ridge becomes closer to the artery, and the risk of vessel injury increases. In both patients, the hematoma rapidly spread in the loose tissues of the mouth floor, displacing the tongue posteriorly and cranially, with airway compromise. The patients were hospitalized with nasotracheal intubation to secure the airway. In both patients, the bleeding stopped spontaneously, and after a few days, the oral floor swallowing was reduced, allowing the endotracheal tube to be removed. In about 2 weeks, the hematoma completely resorbed without surgery. According to the literature, the main cause of floor of the mouth hemorrhage is the mandibular lingual cortical plate perforation during bone drilling with subsequent sublingual–submental artery injury. In fact, in the first patient presented, this surgical error was clearly noticeable on the CT scan. Differently, in the second case reported, no radiological signs of inner cortical perforation were observed, and together with a mouth floor hematoma, a blood collection was also evident on the lower lip, suggesting a different cause of bleeding. Most likely during the periosteal release incision, mandatory in GBR technique, the ascending mental artery was injured, and hematoma spread in the mouth floor through the similar incision done on the lingual flap. Firstly, the mouth floor hemorrhage caused by an injury of a vestibular soft tissue artery during GBR surgery was reported. Strategies and recommendations to avoid this life‐threatening event are provided, based on the literature review and the authors’ experience.
Optimizing E‐Commerce Selection Under Uncertainty: A New Framework for Decision‐Making With Extended Fuzzy TOPSIS
Authors: Edward Jency Leona , Kaliyaperumal Palanivel
Published: December 2024

The COVID‐19 pandemic significantly transformed consumer habits and the landscape of e‐commerce. This research assesses the performance of various e‐commerce platforms during this unprecedented period by employing the extended technique for order of preference similarity to ideal solution (TOPSIS) methodology. Data pertinent to e‐commerce websites during the pandemic was sourced from various channels, including web analytics, marketing reports, and customer feedback surveys. Key performance indicators (KPIs) were established, focusing on website traffic, conversion rates, marketing effectiveness, customer satisfaction, and operational efficiency. These indicators were then normalized and weighted according to their significance. This study investigates the utility of the extended fuzzy TOPSIS method in selecting e‐commerce platforms, pinpointing essential criteria that affect consumer preferences and satisfaction. The findings provide critical insights into how website characteristics relate to consumer behavior, thereby assisting online retailers in improving their digital strategies. The extended TOPSIS method was utilized to determine how closely each website aligns with the ideal and anti‐ideal solutions, resulting in a ranking based on this proximity. To ensure the robustness of the extended TOPSIS approach, a sensitivity analysis was performed by adjusting the weights assigned to the criteria and monitoring the resulting shifts in website rankings. This analysis revealed the top‐performing and least‐performing e‐commerce websites during the pandemic, as determined by the extended TOPSIS rankings. The sensitivity analysis indicated that the rankings produced by extended TOPSIS remained relatively stable despite changes in criteria weights, underscoring its reliability and applicability. This study highlights the effectiveness of the extended TOPSIS method in evaluating e‐commerce performance amid the unique challenges posed by COVID‐19. By incorporating a range of criteria and conducting sensitivity analyses, the research establishes extended TOPSIS as a robust and valuable framework for identifying high‐performing e‐commerce websites during periods of disruption. The originality of this paper lies in its ability to tackle significant uncertainties in e‐commerce selection and to present a practical case study utilizing extended TOPSIS for the first time.
Digital Twin‐Enabled Delay Diagnosis Traceability and Propagation Process for Airport Flight Ground Service
Authors: Liu Chang , Zhang YuanYuan , Chen YanRu , Liu ShiJia , Hu ShunFang , Luo Qian , Chen LiangYin
Published: December 2024

The emergence of digital twin technology offers a promising solution to address the limitations of traditional methods on early diagnosis and accurate propagation analysis of flight ground service delays. However, the application of digital twin technology in the civil aviation domain still stays at the lower maturity of the L2 level, which focuses on physical assets, operational data, and maintenance planning at airports, and failed to achieve the integration of flight ground operation mechanism and real‐time data, making it difficult to realize timely delay diagnosis. The simulation model is also limited to the offline simulation technology, which cannot connect to real‐time data for simulation from intermediate processes. In this work, we developed an advanced L3‐level airport digital twin system for flight ground service processes delay diagnosis and propagation, which focused on real‐time data‐driven simulation models and machine learning applications to meet the timely and precision requirements. First, we used the Unity3D platform to construct static three‐dimensional models of flight ground service objects on the airport cloud server. By parsing these behavioral state interfaces and mapping real‐time dynamic data from the airport sensing and business systems, we achieved accurate visualization of the airport’s dynamic operational processes. Then, a vehicle delay tree–based Bayesian diagnostic model was proposed in the digital twin system to analyze the relationships between multiple flights and service processes, which enables proactive diagnosis of the operation status and provides delay warning information. To improve the accuracy of propagation analysis, we proposed a “breakpoint” simulation method that enables real‐time simulation starting from an intermediate moment, facilitating the inference of flight ground service delays since the early warning moment. In addition, two delay tracing and propagation algorithms were proposed to identify delays and investigate propagation paths. Leveraging real‐time operational information, our approach provides valuable feedback for decision‐making, empowering the airport manager to formulate precise optimization strategies. Experiments on real‐world airport data have validated the effectiveness of our proposed method and provided practical recommendations for airport managers to reduce aircraft delays and improve airport operation efficiency.
Autophagy Regulates Ferroptosis‐Mediated Diabetic Liver Injury by Modulating the Degradation of ACSL4
Authors: Wu Liangxiu , Lai Weicheng , Li Lanlan , Yang Sen , Li Fengjuan , Yang Chen , Gong Xiaobing , Wu Liangyan
Published: December 2024

Background: Diabetic liver injury is a serious complication due to the lack of effective treatments and the unclear pathogenesis. Ferroptosis, a form of cell death involving reactive oxygen species (ROS)‐dependent lipid peroxidation (LPO), is closely linked to autophagy and diabetic complications. Therefore, this study is aimed at investigating the role of autophagy in regulating ferroptosis by modulating the degradation of acyl‐CoA synthetase long‐chain family member 4 (ACSL4) in diabetic hepatocytes and its potential impact on diabetic liver injury.

Methods: Initially, ferroptosis and autophagy were assessed in liver tissues from streptozotocin‐induced diabetic rats and in palmitic acid (PA)–treated LO2 cells. Subsequently, the study focused on elucidating the regulatory role of autophagy in mediating ferroptosis through the modulation of ACSL4 expression in PA‐treated LO2 cells.

Results: The results demonstrated that ACSL4‐mediated ferroptosis and inhibition of autophagy were observed in diabetic hepatocytes in vivo and in PA‐treated LO2 cells. Additionally, the ferroptosis inhibitor was able to mitigate the PA‐induced cell death in LO2 cells. Mechanistically, the stability and expression level of the ACSL4 protein were upregulated and primarily degraded via the autophagy‐lysosome pathway in PA‐treated LO2 cells. The use of the autophagy inhibitor 3‐methyladenine (3‐MA) and the inducer rapamycin further demonstrated that autophagy regulated ferroptosis by mediating ACSL4 degradation, highlighting its critical role in diabetic liver injury.

Conclusions: These results elucidate the roles of ferroptosis, autophagy, and their interactions in the pathogenesis of diabetic liver injury, offering potential therapeutic targets. Furthermore, they shed light on the pathogenesis of ferroptosis and other diabetic complications.
The Evaluation of Ocular Posterior Segment Findings in 5527 Term Infants Using Smartphone‐Based Fundus Imaging
Authors: Acar Damla Erginturk , Ozgur Armagan
Published: December 2024

Purpose: To evaluate the two‐year fundus examination outcomes of term infants undergoing eye screening.

Methods: Retrospective review of our data of term infants at a tertiary care center (Ankara Bilkent City Hospital) from October 2021 to October 2023. All screened infants underwent red reflex test and dilated posterior segment examination. Abnormal ocular findings were documented using smartphone‐based imaging system.

Results: A total of 5527 full‐term babies were enrolled to the study. Abnormal ocular findings were observed in 1031 newborns (18.6%), the most common of which were retinal white lesions in the peripheral retina (13%) (n = 720) and posterior segment hemorrhages (4.3%) (n = 243). Other findings included congenital hypertrophy of the retinal pigment epithelium (n = 14), choroidal nevus (n = 11), idiopathic peripheral retinal scar (n = 9), chorioretinal coloboma (n = 6), optic nerve coloboma (n = 4), familial exudative vitreoretinopathy (n = 4), optic nerve large cup (n = 2), optic nerve hypoplasia (n = 2), retinal calcification (n = 2), optic nerve pit (n = 2), morning glory disc anomaly (n = 1), vascular loop on the optic disc (n = 1), retinoblastoma (n = 1), X‐linked retinoschisis (n = 1), congenital toxoplasmosis (n = 1), thread‐shaped white lesion (n = 1), combined hamartoma of the retina and the retinal pigment epithelium (n = 1), foveal hypoplasia (n = 1), retinal dystrophy (n = 1), and astrocytic hamartoma (n = 1).

Conclusions: Detailed eye examinations of term infants can reveal a range of ocular and/or systemic abnormalities that would not be caught through pupillary red reflex test. Smartphone‐based fundus imaging is a simple and effective method for documenting findings.
Clinical Radiologic Analysis of 2964 Papillary Breast Lesions
Authors: Zhang Hanyu , Hu Anbang , Li Yanling , Li Mingcui , Rong Zhiyuan , Cheng Weilun , Liu Yansong , Duan Yunqiang , Feng Jianyuan , Chen Ziang , Yu Tianshui , Zhang Jiarui , Wang Ting , Shang Yuhang , Fang Zhengbo , Liu Jiangwei , Kong Fanjing , Ma Fei , Guo Baoliang
Published: December 2024

Background: Clinical management of papillary breast lesions (PBLs) remains controversial. Our objective was to analyze the independent risk factors associated with malignant PBLs.

Methods: A retrospective review of clinical variables in 2964 patients with papillary lesions available for evaluation.

Results: This retrospective study screened that older patients (≥ 50 years), postmenopausal, palpable tumor, tumor size ≥ 15 mm, peripheral tumor, and tumor with calcification were independent risk factors affecting malignant PBLs. Moreover, the probability of malignant PBLs without the appealed risk factors was only 3.4%.

Conclusions: Patients without risk factors for papillary lesions can manage their health with imaging surveillance. The choice of surgical treatment for the remaining patients is a reasonable recommendation.
Pharmacokinetic Aspects of Hydroxychloroquine and Its Relationship to Efficacy in Immunoglobulin A Nephropathy
Authors: Shi Yaotong , Wang Ye , Li Nan , Shao Qiuyuan , Jiang Chunming , Yang Ting , Liu Jing
Published: December 2024

Introduction: Hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) is recommended for Chinese patients with immunoglobulin A nephropathy (IgAN). This study aimed to investigate the pharmacokinetics of HCQ in the treatment of IgAN and its relationship with therapeutic efficacy. Methods: This prospective study included 49 IgAN patients treated with HCQ, who were divided into effective and ineffective groups based on HCQ treatment efficacy after 6 months, defined as a reduction in proteinuria of at least 50% from baseline. The concentrations of HCQ and its metabolites were measured by high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. The relationships between the concentrations of HCQ and its metabolites and therapeutic efficacy were analyzed using linear correlation analysis and logistic regression. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were generated to evaluate the predictive value of HCQ and its metabolite concentrations. Results: Following 6 months of treatment with HCQ, patients in the effective group exhibited increased concentrations of HCQ (p = 0.022) and desethylchloroquine (DCQ) (p = 0.015). The results of the Spearman’s correlation analysis indicated a positive correlation between alterations in proteinuria and concentrations of HCQ (r = 0.328, p < 0.05) and DCQ (r = 0.267, p < 0.05). Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses indicated that efficacy was significantly correlated with HCQ (odds ratio 1.008, 95% CI: 1.001–1.014) and DCQ (odds ratio 1.064, 95% CI: 1.010–1.121) concentrations. ROC curves indicated that an HCQ concentration of 442.6 ng/mL and a DCQ concentration of 42.7 ng/mL exhibited the optimal capacity to predict efficacy (p < 0.05). Conclusion: The blood concentrations of HCQ and its metabolite DCQ may be significant factors for evaluating therapeutic efficacy in IgAN patients.
EFFECTS OF MANAGERIAL HUBRIS ON WORKPLACE INCIVILITY: A QUANTITATIVE STUDY ON ADMINISTRATIVE STAFF AT A STATE UNIVERSITY
Authors: Pazarcık Yener , Kanten Pelin
Published: December 2024

This study aims to investigate the effects of managerial hubris on workplace incivility. The related literature incorporates studies that suggest that managerial hubris leads to some unfavorable organizational consequences. Therefore, managerial hubris and its consequences are considered to be significant precursors of workplace incivility at universities. The survey method was adopted to collect data from 138 administrative staff members and academics at a one of the public university in Türkiye. The obtained data were analyzed by structural equation modelling. The results revealed that managerial hubris had positive and significant effects on hostility as a component of workplace incivility. In addition, it was found that managerial hubris exerts a positive and significant effect on intervention of social life domain of workplace incivility. However, managerial hubris was observed to have no effect on ostracism as a subdomain of workplace incivility. Moreover, the study demonstrated that there was a significant difference between the participants’ perceptions of workplace incivility and the titles of the university staff.
Platonic Asceticism in Philo of Alexandria’s Contemplative Practice
Authors: Mackie Scott D.
Published: December 2024

Though Philo of Alexandria’s ascetic beliefs and practices often have been noted, a focused assessment of the Platonic influences on his contemplative asceticism has yet to be offered. While addressing that shortcoming, this essay identifies a number of key Platonic themes. Like Plato’s Socrates, Philo is capable of expressing a range of opinions concerning embodied existence and the roles of body and soul in noetic contemplation. Though generally pursuing a path of moderation, the rigorous demands of noetic contemplation necessarily call for extreme and austere praxes, as well as vigorous effort. Philo’s belief that the suppression of the bodily senses affords the expression of the spiritual senses also is Platonic in origin, as is his oft-stated conviction that the contemplative’s diminished desire for bodily pleasure is a natural consequence of a more powerful, innate attraction to the Forms and the noetic realm. A final and perhaps most important Socratic influence is detected in the esoteric meditative techniques Philo uses to effect the out-of-body experiences that afford mystical contemplation.
The Genocide Case against Israel: from the Victim’s Side to the Defendant’s Bench?
Authors: Atadjanov Rustam
Published: December 2024

This article presents a scholarly analysis of the United Nations International Court of Justice’s (icj) preliminary rulings issued in January, March, and May 2024 regarding South Africa’s genocide case against Israel, initiated in December 2023. The study critically examines these initial rulings, identifying the compelling arguments presented by the Court and comparing it to some other recent cases such as Nicaragua v. Germany. Employing a legal analytical methodology, the piece argues for the significant judicial implications of the icj’s preliminary findings and offers a tentative forecast for the expected main judgment. It further delves into the proper qualification of the crime of genocide as well as its characterization as a human rights law violation, providing the author’s perspective on the seriousness of the genocide allegations from both sides involved in this critical case. This study contributes to the existing scholarly literature on the Israeli-Hamas War and the broader Israeli–Palestinian conflict, emphasizing judicial aspects and the substantive part of international criminal law, specifically the crime of genocide. It aims to serve as a valuable resource for international law scholars, legal practitioners, academics, and students engaged in the complexities of state and individual criminal responsibility within the context of international law.
An African Agenda: Morocco’s Migration Discourse in the African Union and Its Janus-Faced Migration Diplomacy
Authors: Wissing Ruben
Published: December 2024

Since its 2013 National Immigration and Asylum Strategy, Morocco has deployed an intra-African migration discourse of solidarity and human rights. King Mohammed vi was appointed African Union (AU) “champion” on the migration issue and presented the bloc with an African Agenda for Migration.

This paper assesses the protection potential of this agenda for forced migrants. To uncover underlying power and strategic interests, the African Agenda on Migration and Morocco’s accompanying discourse are contextualised in relation to Morocco’s general African policy and its overall migration policy. Also a double discrepancy is examined, between Morocco’s diplomatic stance towards the AU and towards the EU and between its discourse and governance practices.

The paper shows how Morocco skilfully employs migration diplomacy to further its geostrategic objectives at the African continental level, as it does in other international relations. This underpins the conclusion that the Agenda has little potential to improve the protection of forced migrants.
Coronavirus (Covid-19) Pandemic: Effects, Responses and Challenges for Education in Abeokuta, South-West Nigeria
Authors: Thompson Olasupo , Adebiyi Alphonsus , Obi Modupe , Idris Ridwan T. , Olise Lawrence C.
Published: December 2024

The study investigated the effect of the Covid-19 pandemic on education, the challenges and the responses, in Abeokuta, south-west Nigeria. It adopted the case study design and qualitative method of data collection. It found that the Covid-19 pandemic, exacerbated by the lockdown, affected all stakeholders in the education sector from governments at all levels to pupils. Responses through the provision of palliatives, the introduction of online classes and internet connectivity cost reduction by network providers were less effective than they might have been as a result of certain hindrances, such as poor funding and erratic power supply. The study concluded that stakeholders in the education sector must provide the enabling environment for education to thrive for both learners and teachers in order to meet the Sustainable Development Goals. The study recommends investment in education through adequate funding, setting up early warning systems and the enforcement of child rights acts.
Hydrological Study of Mount Guna, a Shield Volcano on the Ethiopian Plateau
Authors: Birhanu Adugnaw
Published: December 2024

This dissertation investigated the hydrology and land cover change of Mount Guna using field data, remote sensing data and modelling. The hydrology of Mt Guna was studied by establishing meteorology, surface and groundwater monitoring stations on Mt Guna. The run-off generation and water balance of Mt Guna was investigated using the WetSpa hydrological model. The groundwater recharge of Mt Guna was investigated using the WetSpass model and the water table fluctuation and chloride mass balance methods. The land cover changes of Mt Guna over a span of 61 years were thoroughly analysed using Google Earth imagery and historical aerial photos using geographically weighted regression.
Policy Recommendations for Enhancing Capabilities of Senegalese Youth Navigating Immobility ChallengesRecommandations Politiques pour Renforcer les Capacités des Jeunes Sénégalais face aux Défis de l’Immobilité
Authors: Debray Alix , Scheerens Charlotte , Sow Ndiémé , Gueye Doudou Dièye , Toma Sorana , Ruyssen Ilse
Published: December 2024

This report provides policy recommendations for addressing the socio-economic and mental health challenges of different forms of involuntary immobility faced by Senegalese youth, based on qualitative data from the “Migration Aspiration, Immobility and Wellbeing” workshop held at Assane Seck University of Ziguinchor. The event gathered feedback from young people, practitioners and academics on the complex factors that contribute to the immobility of youth in Casamance, Senegal. Recommendations include promoting local success stories, addressing family pressures, leveraging migrant dynamics, improving access to information and mentoring, and encouraging targeted investments in education and local economic development. The insights reflect a co-creation process, aimed at developing sustainable solutions for young people’s wellbeing and aspirations in Senegal.
Han Feizi and Human Rights
Authors: Chen Nalei
Published: December 2024

Han Feizi’s philosophy has greatly influenced Chinese politics, but he is commonly perceived in Chinese history as an apologist for tyranny. Can his legalist philosophy be compatible with human rights? In this essay, I take up this interesting question. I argue that Han Feizi’s philosophy could endorse a “political” account of human rights. Han Feizi plans to help the state become orderly and stable. To achieve this goal, the key is the effectiveness of the incentive system and bureaucratic administration, under which people will be incentivized to act in ways that lead to the benefit of state interest. To enable these systems to function fully, there must be certain protections for people, which can be ensured effectively by providing them with rights. Han Feizi’s approach to human rights is different from the Confucian approach and can offer contemporary discussion of human rights new insights from the East Asian perspective.
The Impact of Snowoff Timing and Associated Atmospheric Drivers on the Alaska Wildfire Season
Authors: Bieniek Peter A. , Waigl Christine F. , Bhatt Uma S. , Ballinger Thomas J. , Lader Richard T. , Borries-Strigle Cecilia , Hostler Joshua , Fischer Elizabeth , Burgard Mitchell , Stevens Eric , Strader Heidi
Published: December 2024

Wildfires occur each summer in the boreal forests of Alaska, with an increasing frequency of extreme fire seasons in recent decades. The wildfire season typically begins after the snow melts (i.e., snowoff) in April–May, which is trending toward earlier dates since 1959 (ranging from 2 to 4 days decade−1 over Alaska). This study evaluates snowoff dates in Alaska and related synoptic-scale atmospheric drivers in spring over 1959–2020 to assess possible linkages with the summer wildfire season. Many of the largest fire seasons followed regional snowoff dates in the earliest tercile accounting for 56%–95% of the total historical area burned by the region. Snowoff is best correlated with average daily maximum temperatures during April–May with weaker correlations thereafter. In some years, early snowoff and associated warm temperature anomalies persisted later into the summer influencing fire danger indices. This occurred in many years with the largest area burned. More limited instances of persistent lower precipitation anomalies were also found. The persistent temperature anomalies primarily occurred during El Niño conditions and the positive phase of the east Pacific/North Pacific pattern. Precipitation anomalies were most strongly associated with the Atlantic multidecadal oscillation. Blocking high pressure associated with these teleconnections was a likely driving mechanism, particularly for temperature persistence. The results indicated that the snowoff date and concurrent springtime synoptic climate conditions may provide predictability of fire weather conditions during the wildfire season when this persistence occurs. These subseasonal surface–atmosphere linkages could be used to inform wildfire-related seasonal forecasts.

Significance Statement

The purpose of this study is to understand how snowoff timing impacts seasonal wildfire activity in Alaska to inform wildfire-related forecasts needed for operational planning. Snowoff timing was found to directly impact fire weather conditions only during the early season. However, early snowoff was correlated with sustained warm temperature anomalies during several large wildfire years. These conditions were linked with El Niño and other teleconnections. Sustained dry conditions were most strongly associated with wildfire on the North Slope. Our results show that climate conditions during the spring snowoff period may serve as a potential predictor of summer temperature, precipitation, and wildfire in Alaska. These precursor relationships can therefore contribute to improvements in the seasonal prediction of wildfire danger.
Distributed adaptive event-triggered formation fault-tolerant control for multiple quadrotors
Authors: Luo Ming-Min , Jun Wang
Published: December 2024

In the present paper, addressing the challenges of model uncertainty, actuator faults, and wind disturbances in quadrotor UAV formation systems, this study proposes an adaptive super-twisting integral terminal sliding mode control (ASTITSMC) strategy. This strategy integrates the “leader-follower” formation control approach with adaptive parameter adjustment to optimize the sliding mode controller, effectively estimating the upper bound of unknown disturbances and ensuring system stability. Additionally, based on the leader-follower structure, we design a distributed adaptive event-triggered formation control protocol that does not rely on global network information, thus reducing computational load and conserving communication resources, while strictly proving the avoidance of the Zeno phenomenon. Analysis based on Lyapunov stability theory demonstrates that the proposed algorithm ensures the convergence of the multi-UAV formation tracking error to zero. Simulation results indicate that the proposed control algorithm performs superiorly in terms of fault tolerance compared to two other algorithms and exhibits stronger robustness.