bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Unlocking the Potential of CAR-NK Cell Therapy: Overcoming Barriers and Challenges in the Treatment of Myeloid Malignancies
Authors: Zhang Anqi , Yang Xingcheng , Zhang Yicheng , Yu Xiaoxuan , Mu Wei , Wei Jia
Published: January 2025

Myeloid malignancies include various types of cancers that arise from the abnormal development or proliferation of myeloid cells within the bone marrow. Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell treatments, which show great potential for B cell and plasma cell cancers, face major challenges when used for myeloid malignancies. CAR natural killer (NK) cell–based immunotherapy encounters several challenges in treating myeloid cancers, including (i) poor gene transfer efficiency and expansion platforms in vitro, (ii) limited proliferation and persistence in vivo, (iii) antigenic heterogeneity, and (iv) an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment. Despite these hurdles, “off-the-shelf” CAR-NK treatments showed encouraging results, marked by enhanced proliferation, prolonged persistence, enhanced tumor infiltration, and improved adaptability. This review offers a summary of the biological traits and cellular sources of NK cells along with a discussion of contemporary CAR designs. Furthermore, it addresses the challenges observed in preclinical research and clinical trials related to CAR-NK cell therapy for myeloid cancers, suggesting enhancement strategies.
Figure 4 from Targeting PRMT1 Reduces Cancer Persistence and Tumor Relapse in EGFR- and KRAS-Mutant Lung Cancer
Authors: Sun Xiaoxiao , Kumbier Karl , Gayathri Savitha , Steri Veronica , Wu Lani F. , Altschuler Steven J.
Published: January 2025

Chromosome 5q31.1 deletion is negatively associated with the effectiveness of the PRMT1-targeting strategy for reducing persistence. A and B, Chromosome 5q31.1 deletions in TCGA lung cancer cohorts. Proportions of LUAD and LUSC samples with (brown) or without (gray) deletion are shown in A. Proportions of samples with (brown) or without (gray) the deletion in LUAD harboring EGFR-activating mutations (EGFRmut) and KRASG12C mutations are shown in B. The numbers of samples with the deletion (brown) and the total cohort size (black) are labeled above the graphs. C, Box and whisker plots showing IRF1 protein levels in PERCs with or without the 5q31.1 deletion. Cells were treated with 50 ng/mL IFNγ for 2 hours. Protein levels were quantified from the Western blots in Supplementary Fig. S4C and normalized to the mean value across 17 PERCs. D, PRMT1 knockdown efficacy with PERCs. Cells were incubated with PRMT1-targeting siRNA (siPRMT1) for 2 days and then treated with 100 nmol/L osimertinib and 5 ng/mL IFNγ for 6 days. Persister fitness was calculated by normalizing cell viability to siNTC for each cell line. Data are shown as mean ± standard deviation (n = 3), ranked by the effect size of PRMT1 KD from large to small. Cell lines are color-labeled to indicate deleted (brown) or intact (gray) 5q31.1 region. E, Box and whisker plot showing PRMT1 knockdown efficacy between PERC groups with or without the 5q31.1 deletion. F, Distribution of t-statistics for PRMT1 knockdown efficacy between PERC groups with or without a copy number variation. Amplifications or deletions present in at least three PERC cell lines and no more than 14 PERC cell lines (i.e., absent in at least three PERC cell lines) were analyzed. Brown: the 5q31.1 deletion. Statistical comparison between groups was based on two-sided Student t tests assuming unequal variance. The significance of the results is indicated by symbols: *, P ≤ 0.05; **, P ≤ 0.01.
Figure 2 from Targeting PRMT1 Reduces Cancer Persistence and Tumor Relapse in EGFR- and KRAS-Mutant Lung Cancer
Authors: Sun Xiaoxiao , Kumbier Karl , Gayathri Savitha , Steri Veronica , Wu Lani F. , Altschuler Steven J.
Published: January 2025

PRMT1 knockdown decreases persistence in STAT1-high EGFRmut and KRASG12C lung cancer cell lines. A and B, Cells were treated with type I PRMT inhibitors (PRMTi) at 0.1 or 1 μmol/L, with (A) or without (B) targeted drugs. For EGFRmut cells, the targeted drug was 100 nmol/L osimertinib, and for KRASG12C cells, the targeted drug was 1-μmol/L sotorasib. The pan-type I PRMT inhibitor GSK3368715 (GSK715), PRMT3-selective inhibitor SGC707, and PRMT4-selective inhibitor TP-064 were used. Persister fitness was calculated by normalizing cell viability after a six-day combination treatment to viability with targeted drug alone (A). General cancer cell fitness was calculated by normalizing cell viability after a three-day treatment with PRMTi alone to no PRMTi control (B). The graphs show the mean ± standard deviation (n = 3). C, Engineered lung cancer cells expressing PRMT1-targeting shRNA (shPRMT1) were treated with or without targeted drugs: 100 nmol/L osimertinib (Osi) for HCC827 shPRMT1 and 1-μmol/L sotorasib (Soto) for H1373 and H358 shPRMT1 cells. Doxycycline (Dox, 100 ng/mL) was administered concurrently with targeted drugs to ensure PRMT1 knockdown. Treatments lasted for at least 1 week before being discontinued to allow the regrowth of persister cells. The treatment schedules are indicated by gray triangles. Cells were continuously monitored using phase contrast live cell imaging. Cell confluence per well is reported as mean ± standard deviation, with three to five replicate wells per condition. Statistical comparisons between groups were based on the integrated confluence over time (area under curve; AUC), using one-sided Mann–Whitney tests. The significance of the results is indicated by symbols: *, P ≤ 0.05; **, P ≤ 0.01; ****, P ≤ 0.0001.
Primary Bilateral Macronodular Adrenal Hyperplasia: A Case Series from a Tertiary Hospital
Authors: Gonçalves Juliana , Moreno Telma , Urbano Ferreira Helena , Menino João , Dourado João , Silva Diana Festas , Borges-Canha Marta , Pedro Jorge , Queirós Joana
Published: January 2025

Introduction: Primary bilateral macronodular adrenal hyperplasia (PBMAH) is a rare etiology of Cushing’s syndrome characterized by the presence of multiple adrenal macronodules and variable levels of cortisol excess. Its pathogenesis is complex, involving mechanisms such as aberrant hormone receptors, adrenal paracrine ACTH production, and genetic germline pathogenic variants. However, management is not well established. Methods: This was a retrospective, observational study. We evaluated patients with PBMAH at our tertiary center. We aimed to describe the clinical, hormonal, and radiological characteristics; treatment approaches; and outcomes. Results: Twenty patients were included in this study. Patients had a mean age at diagnosis of PBMAH of 56.1 ± 11.1 years, and 10 patients (50.0%) were females. Most cases were initially investigated for adrenal incidentalomas. Median 8:00 a.m. serum cortisol after 1 mg dexamethasone overnight suppression test was 223.5 (73.1–698.6) nmol/L (8.11 [2.65–25.3] µg/dL), late-night salivary cortisol was 1.48 (0.765–3.21) times the upper limit of normal (ULN), and 24 h-UFC was 1.61 (0.42–3.64) times the ULN. One patient presented with the co-secretion of cortisol and aldosterone. Mean total adrenal size was 98.5 ± 25.6 mm, and the largest nodule size was 32.1 ± 9.09 mm. In six (31.6%) patients, the largest nodule had an attenuation higher than 10 HU. Germline pathogenic variants in ARMC5 were found in four (50.0%) of the eight tested patients who underwent genetic testing. Treatment strategies varied, with unilateral adrenalectomy often successfully controlling hypercortisolism in five (83.3%) of 6 patients with modest excess cortisol secretion. For mild autonomous cortisol secretion, active surveillance of comorbidities and appropriate treatment were not associated with progression of cortisol secretion after a median follow-up of 34.0 (10.5–83.0) months. Conclusion: This study underscores the need for personalized management strategies and identifies areas for future research to optimize the care of patients with PBMAH.
Use of Claims to Assess Outcomes and Treatment Effects in the Evolut Low Risk Trial
Authors: Butala Neel M. , Lalani Christina , Tale Archana , Song Yang , Kolte Dhaval , Baron Suzanne , Strom Jordan , Cohen David J. , Yeh Robert W.
Published: January 2025

BACKGROUND:

Food and Drug Administration–mandated postmarket studies for transcatheter aortic valve replacement in low-risk populations plan to use passively collected registry data linked to claims for long-term follow-up out to 10 years. Therefore, it is critically important to understand the validity of these claims-based end points. We sought to evaluate the ability of administrative claims with
International Classification of Diseases-Tenth Revision
(
ICD-10
) codes to identify trial-adjudicated end points and reproduce treatment comparisons of aortic valve replacement in the Evolut Low Risk Trial.

METHODS:

We linked Evolut Low Risk trial patients to the Medicare Provider Analysis and Review database. We calculated sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, and
κ
agreement statistic of claims to detect clinical end points through 2 years in trial patients. We additionally compared end points across treatment arms using trial-adjudicated outcomes versus claims-based outcomes.

RESULTS:

Trial-adjudicated deaths were perfectly identified by claims. Claims had good performance in identifying trial-adjudicated disabling stroke (sensitivity 68.8%, specificity 99.0%, positive predictive value 64.7%, negative predictive value 99.1%,
κ
=0.66) and pacemaker placement (sensitivity 85.2%, specificity 98.4%, positive predictive value 90.4%, negative predictive value 97.5%,
κ
=0.86), but more modest performance in identifying trial-adjudicated myocardial infarction (
κ
=0.46) and vascular complications (
κ
=0.45). There was no difference between treatment arms for the primary end point of death or disabling stroke using trial data (hazard ratio, 0.83 [95% CI, 0.41–1.68]) or claims data (hazard ratio, 0.89 [95% CI, 0.43–1.81]; interaction
P
=0.71).

CONCLUSIONS:

Claims-based end points performed well in ascertaining death, disabling stroke, and pacemaker placement and were able to reproduce principal trial findings. These results support the selective use of claims-based end points for transcatheter aortic valve replacement postmarketing surveillance.

REGISTRATION:

URL:
https://www.clinicaltrials.gov
; Unique identifier: NCT02701283.
LMLPA: Language Model Linguistic Personality Assessment
Authors: Zheng Jingyao , Wang Xian , Hosio Simo , Xu Xiaoxian , Lee Lik-Hang
Published: January 2025

Large Language Models (LLMs) are increasingly used in everyday life and research. One of the most common use cases is conversational interactions, enabled by the language generation capabilities of LLMs. Just as between two humans, a conversation between an LLM-powered entity and a human depends on the personality of the conversants. However, measuring the personality of a given LLM is currently a challenge. This article introduces the Language Model Linguistic Personality Assessment (LMLPA), a system designed to evaluate the linguistic personalities of LLMs. Our system helps to understand LLMs’ language generation capabilities by quantitatively assessing the distinct personality traits reflected in their linguistic outputs. Unlike traditional human-centric psychometrics, the LMLPA adapts a personality assessment questionnaire, specifically the Big Five Inventory, to align with the operational capabilities of LLMs, and also incorporates the findings from previous language-based personality measurement literature.
Shifting Battlegrounds: Corporate Political Activity in the EU General Data Protection Regulation
Authors: Ocelík Václav , Kolk Ans , Irion Kristina
Published: January 2025

Scholarship on corporate political activity (CPA) has remained largely silent on the substance of information strategies that firms utilize to influence policymakers. To address this deficiency, our study is situated in the European Union (EU), where political scientists have noted information strategies to be central to achieving lobbying success; the EU also provides a context of global norm-setting activities, especially with its General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). Aided by recent advances in the field of unsupervised machine learning, we performed a structural topic model analysis of the entire set of lobby documents submitted during two GDPR consultations, which were obtained via a so-called Freedom of Information request. Our analysis of the substance of information strategies reveals that the two policy phases constitute “shifting battlegrounds,” where firms first seek to influence what is included and excluded in the legislation, after which they engage the more specific interests of other stakeholders. Our main theoretical contribution concerns the identification of two distinct information strategies. Furthermore, we point at the need for more attention for institutional procedures and for the role of other stakeholders’ lobbying activities in CPA research.
Assisting Economically Marginalized and Vulnerable Youth and Minimizing Opportunities for Exploitation by Adult Criminal Groups
Authors: Arnull Elaine , Goss Melissa , Heimer Karen
Published: January 2025

This paper examines the exploitation of marginalized children and youth at risk of violent victimization and sexual exploitation by networks of adult criminals. Using the UK as an example, we consider various public inquiries that identified serious failings in UK criminal justice, social care, public health, and educational systems. These reports said that children and youth had been exploited by networks of adult criminals over time. They also described a sense of defeatism and lack of agency among the criminal justice and social service agencies to address the social, criminal, and public health problems associated with this form of child and youth exploitation. We discuss research that illuminates this issue and suggest some avenues for building trust between victims/survivors, community members, criminal justice agencies, and social services.
Reaction kinetics of desulphurisation of hot metal using CaO–SiO2–Al2O3–MgO–TiO2–Na2O slag systems
Authors: Li Minghui , Peng Jiayun , Li Saisai , Chen Ruoyu , Li Canhua , Bao Guangda , Lv Siwei
Published: January 2025

In the CaO–SiO2–Al2O3–MgO–TiO2–Na2O system slag, the desulphurisation kinetics of pig iron desulphurisation were studied. The results show that the sulphur content reduced with the increase of the temperature, the alkalinity, the lowest content was 0.01% and 0.04%, respectively. With the increase of the content of Na2CO3 and MgO, the sulphur content in hot metal reduced from 0.33% to 0.04% and 0.05%, respectively. In addition, the content of Al2O3 and TiO2 has a great influence on the desulphurisation rate. The sulphur content in hot metal firstly decreases and then increases with increasing Al2O3 and TiO2 addition, The activation energy was estimated to be 535.71 kJ/mol at the temperature from 1350 °C to 1450 °C. The desulphurisation slag was analysed by SEM-EDS. A thick layer of calcium sulphide was formed at the interface of slag–metal, which has a negative effect on the desulphurisation reaction. When the blast furnace slag was added Na2CO3 of the plant experiment, desulphurisation rate and the sulphur element in the slag increased. Compared to previous desulphurisation effect without Na2CO3, the desulphurisation efficiency increases from 50% to 83.3%. The desulphurisation efficiency is improved by optimising the thermodynamic conditions of KR stirring desulphurisation, which is beneficial to reduce desulphurisation flux consumption and the secondary desulphurisation ratio.
Return to On-Snow Performance in Ski Racing After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction
Authors: Morris Nathaniel , da Silva Torres Ricardo , Heard Mark , Doyle Baker Patricia , Herzog Walter , Jordan Matthew J.
Published: January 2025

Background:

The individual variation in on-snow performance outcomes after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction (ACLR) in elite alpine ski racers has not been reported and may be influenced by specific injury characteristics.

Purpose:

To report the performance statistics of elite ski racers before and after ACLR and to identify surgical and athlete-specific factors that may be associated with performance recovery.

Study Design:

Descriptive epidemiological study.

Methods:

International Ski and Snowboard Federation (FIS) points, FIS ranking, average placing, and average percentage behind the winning time in each race were calculated for 30 national and provincial team ski racers at 1 year before and 3 years after ACLR. Injury characteristics were obtained from operative reports and clinical notes.

Results:

The mean age at the time of primary ACLR was 21.6 ± 3.5 years. Overall, 27 of 30 (90%) ski racers returned to the same preinjury competition level. Yet, only 16 of 30 (53%) improved in FIS points, and 13 of 30 (43%) improved in FIS ranking, in one of the speed or technical disciplines by 3 years after surgery. Of the skiers who improved in FIS points, 36% sustained multiligamentous injuries, 45% sustained meniscal tears, and 45% sustained chondral lesions. Of those who failed to improve in FIS points, 50% sustained multiligamentous injuries, 50% sustained meniscal tears, and 60% sustained chondral lesions. Meniscal tears and chondral lesions occurred mostly on the lateral side. The medial collateral ligament was involved in 8 of 9 multiligamentous injuries.

Conclusion:

These findings suggest significant individual variation in the recovery of on-snow performance of ski racers after ACLR, despite returning to the same competition circuit. The pattern of secondary injuries alongside primary ACL ruptures showed little association with improved performance.
Exploring the Association between Measures of Cross-Culturalism and Abortion Attitudes Amongst Latinxs in the United States
Authors: Mena-Meléndez Lucrecia , Bueno Xiana , Lo Wen-Juo , Buyuker Beyza E. , Crawford Brandon L. , Turner Ronna C. , Jozkowski Kristen N.
Published: January 2025

It is imperative to understand how cross-cultural processes are associated with Latinxs’ social attitudes. In this study, we analyzed data from an online survey of 968 Latinx adults in the United States. We explored the associations of three different cross-cultural scales—the Brief Acculturation Scale for Hispanics (BASH), the Psychological Acculturation Scale (PAS), and the Acculturation Rating Scale for Mexican Americans II (ARSMA-II)—with U.S. Latinxs’ attitudes toward legal abortion for social-related circumstances. Even after controlling for common sociodemographic characteristics, all three cross-cultural scales are associated with greater endorsement of legal abortion. Individuals leaning toward English language usage, inclined toward American cultural identity, and U.S./Anglo social interactions were more likely to endorse legal abortion. While BASH’s conciseness and reliability make it well-suited for large-scale surveys, we recommend researchers adopt BASH when assessing Latinxs’ abortion attitudes but also carefully consider their research context and the specific abortion attitudes being assessed when selecting cross-cultural measures. Understanding the Latinx community’s public opinions on abortion is paramount to better assess the reproductive health values, beliefs, and needs of this minority population. In a post- Dobbs v. Jackson context, understanding this is most salient for state-level abortion legislation shaped by past, ongoing, and future ballot initiatives and elections. And being able to accurately account for cultural factors in such work, through adequate acculturation measurement, is important.
Carpet textile waste in thermoplastic polymer composites: A systematic review
Authors: Abdelmonem Ali , Elsabbagh Ahmed , Attia T.
Published: January 2025

Recycling of carpet textile waste is one of the sustainable solutions for dealing with industrial and postconsumer waste, especially with the increasing demand for environmentally friendly alternatives in the fabrication of composite materials. About 90 million tons of solid waste are sent to of landfills in Egypt annually, and less than 12 % of them are recycled. One of the potential solid wastes that can be recycled is carpet. Most of the carpet constituents can be recycled and reused. However, only 4 % of carpet waste is recycled. This work investigates the current status of carpet waste management and worldwide, especially in Egypt. Since, carpet is made from various layers mostly synthetic polymer materials namely, face fiber, primary backing, latex adhesive, and secondary backing, they don’t degrade easily in landfills. Polymers like polyester, polypropylene, polyamide, and acrylic are usually used in the carpet industry. This paper reviews the different recycling techniques used in carpet textile waste management primary, secondary (extraction method), tertiary (chemical), quaternary (energy recovery), and composite approaches of carpet textile waste. The paper also focuses on various studies that have been carried out on the fabrication of carpet-based thermoplastic polymer composites using different manufacturing technologies. Finally, the mechanical properties of these composites are presented and compared.
Annie Dodge Wauneka: Legendary Mother of the Navajo people
Authors: Newell Savannah
Published: January 2025

Annie Dodge Wauneka was an activist and public servant whose decades long career focused extensively on improving the welfare of the Navajo Community. She campaigned to increase education among those living on the Navajo Reservation through working on the Tribal Council, completing personal visits, and producing educational material to improve hygiene. Annie's biggest fight was against tuberculosis. By bridging old traditions with new medicine, Annie encouraged people to seek treatment from hospitals and remain there throughout treatment. This reduced mortality significantly while closing the health disparity that existed between Native populations and the United States collectively.
Leveraging School-University Partnerships to Support Mental Health and Well-being
Authors: Munk Kirsten , Blackburn Samantha , Hansen Varci
Published: January 2025

Young people experience high rates of mental health challenges, which have been exacerbated by the pandemic, particularly for those from underserved communities and communities of color. The Mindful Mentors program demonstrated that delivery of a mindfulness-based curriculum provided by university students to school-aged children is feasible and mutually beneficial. Benefits for university student mentors included team building, increased self-awareness, and developing effective skills for dealing with stress. The pilot program highlighted specific challenges and areas for improvement related to the delivery of mindfulness curriculum to younger children. Recommendations for future implementation include the need for curriculum tailored for specific grade levels and ensuring buy-in and engagement from teachers.
Hidden in plain sight: Abusive leaders and group blind spots
Authors: Mercer Marlee , Karakowsky Len
Published: January 2025

Much of the research on silence as a response to group-level abuse suggests that group members, despite collectively recognizing the leader's abuse, choose to remain silent and accept the abuse due to fear of retaliation. However, there is also growing evidence that groups can be vulnerable to the development of blind spots that distort or entirely preclude any recognition of the leader's misdeeds. In this paper, we draw upon existing theory and research to present a conceptual framework that outlines the group characteristics and dynamics leading such blind spots—impediments that prevent the accurate recognition or appraisal of group psychological abuse committed by a leader. The aim is to explain why groups may unwittingly tolerate abusive leaders, and to provide insights into the complexities of group dynamics and leader influence.
Surveillance experiences of extinction rebellion activists and police: Unpacking the technologization of Dutch protest policing
Authors: Storbeck Majsa , Jacobs Gabriele , Schuilenburg Marc , van den Akker Robin
Published: January 2025

Recent years have witnessed an intensifying debate on the deployment of emerging surveillance technologies in protests. Often discussed in terms of “chilling effects”—where activists self-censor due to fear of surveillance repercussions—there's limited research on its effects on both activists and law enforcement. This study explores the technologization of protest policing, moving beyond the oversimplified cat-and-mouse game analogy, to examine its effects on surveillance experiences in more nuanced ways. By analyzing observations and interview data from 2023 road blockades by Extinction Rebellion in The Hague, Netherlands, this paper highlights the intricate consequences of surveillance technologies for both sides. Moving beyond the narrow legal interpretation of “chilling effects,” it uncovers two further socio-psychological sub-manifestations, showing how both groups adapt through hyper-transparency (extreme openness) and hyper-alertness (extreme caution). The study demonstrates how these experiences can be self-reinforcing, where reciprocal suspicion might contribute to a cycle of mutual distrust beyond protest contexts, but also introduces new forms of resilience. This cycle, despite lacking clear causality, bears important implications for society at large. Pervasive suspicion erodes institutional trust among activists and threatens the traditionally communicative and de-escalation-focused approach of Dutch law enforcement. Overall, this extended impact indicates that the technologization of protest policing has resulted in a hybridization of screens and streets, causing its human impacts to stretch beyond the specific times and places of demonstrations. Protest policing now encompasses a multifaceted spectrum of surveillance experiences, affecting a plethora of public values, beyond the right to protest alone.
Follow-up practices of Norwegian intensive care units: A descriptive survey
Authors: Thoresen Karin E , Fosser Olsen Brita
Published: January 2025

After critical illness, two-thirds of intensive care unit (ICU) survivors experience new or increased deterioration of physical, psychological and/or cognitive conditions. Follow-up of ICU survivors is therefore essential. However, no recent studies have described follow-up routines in Norway. This study aimed to describe follow-up practices in Norwegian ICUs, including follow-up consultations, practices related to the use of diaries and the roles of different professions in this approach. This is a descriptive survey, reported in accordance with the STROBE checklist for reporting observational studies, where one professional development nurse in each of the 35 out of 55 Norwegian ICUs completed a questionnaire (64% response rate). Eight units (23%) offered follow-up consultations and 10 units (29%) offered patient diaries. The nurses played a central role in the use of follow-up consultations and diaries, as nurses, for example, were the professionals who most often led follow-up consultations (6/7) and always (10/10) wrote in the diaries. To better plan for future follow-up and rehabilitation strategies for ICU survivors, it is important to identify the best type of follow-up practices and establish evidence-based guidelines, thus giving nurses sufficient recourses to perform the procedure.
Fuelling Electric Vehicles Growth: Factors that Matter in India’s Electric Vehicles Growth Story
Authors: Rajmal  , Gupta Kirti
Published: January 2025

The recent impetus to the electric vehicle (EV) policies at the national and sub-national levels with the medium to long-term objective of reducing greenhouse gas emissions from vehicle traffic motivates an assessment of the key drivers of EVs in India. The sale of EVs especially two-wheelers is rising due to the push by government policies, reduction in upfront costs and increased awareness about EVs. However, the sale of electric cars has not picked up significantly and is uneven across states. The study finds a strong correlation between the use of electric cars in states and the availability of public charging stations. The empirical analysis finds that the availability of public charging infrastructure and the price differentials between electric cars and comparable internal combustion engine cars are significantly associated with the demand for cars across states. A focused and liberal policy assumes importance to stimulate the demand for EVs and to harness its manifold environmental and financial gains.

JEL Classifications: Q42, Q48, Q49
Association Between Rotator Cuff Tears and Shoulder MRI Parameters: Importance of Arthroscopic Validation in Coronal Acromiohumeral Interval Measurement
Authors: Ilyas Gokhan , Ipci Fikri Burak , Egeli Ercument , Kalenderer Onder
Published: January 2025

Background:

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) measurement parameters—the standard noninvasive diagnostic method for rotator cuff tears (RCTs)—have been used to compare groups with and without RCTs. Arthroscopy is used in definitive diagnosis and treatment.

Purposes:

To evaluate the association between RCT and shoulder angles and distances on MRI in patients with and without arthroscopically validated RCT and to determine whether the degree of rotator cuff fatty degeneration affects the MRI measurements.

Study Design:

Cross-sectional study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

Shoulder measurements on MRI were compared between patients with and without RCT as confirmed by shoulder arthroscopy performed by a single surgeon between 2019 and 2024, and non-RCT patients without arthroscopic confirmation. Interobserver reliability (Fleiss kappa coefficient) was calculated for the measurements. The groups were compared using the independent t test or the Mann-Whitney U test. The RCT group was further divided according to the level of fatty degeneration (Goutallier types 0-1-2 vs types 3-4) for subanalysis.

Results:

In addition to the 368 RCT and 55 non-RCT patients with arthroscopic confirmation, there were 92 non-RCT patients without arthroscopic confirmation. The sagittal acromiohumeral interval (AHI) (8.32 vs 9.24 mm), coronal AHI (7.87 vs 8.96 mm), and coronal AHI/glenoid height ratio (22.63% vs 24.88%) were significantly lower in the patients with RCT ( P < .001, P < .001, and P = .001, respectively). In contrast, the critical shoulder angle (CSA) (33.17° vs 31.92°) and the glenoid width/humeral head coverage ratio (57.52% vs 55.7%) were significantly higher in the patients with RCT ( P = .037 and P = .017, respectively). Higher rotator cuff fatty degeneration levels (Goutallier types 3-4) further increased these differences within the patients with RCT ( P < .001 for all). When the arthroscopically validated and nonvalidated non-RCT patients were compared, coronal AHI and AHI/glenoid height ratio values were found to be significantly lower in the nonvalidated group ( P = .034 and P = .047, respectively).

Conclusion:

In this study, RCT was associated with decreased sagittal AHI, coronal AHI, and coronal AHI/glenoid height ratios and increased CSA and glenoid width/humeral head coverage ratios.
Selections From the ABC 2024 Annual International Conference, Tulsa, Oklahoma, USA: A Slick Set of Artificial Intelligence (AI) Classroom Ideas to Fuel Your Teaching
Authors: Cavanaugh Andrew , Whalen D. Joel
Published: January 2025

This article presents a curated collection of nine teaching innovations presented at the Association for Business Communication 89th conference in the “oil capital of the world,” Tulsa, Oklahoma, as well as online, in October 2024. Many of the MFA presenters demonstrated how AI can be used, integrated, and analyzed in business communication classes. This My Favorite Assignment 35th edition introduces readers to a wide variety of classroom-ready ideas that integrate AI. Teaching support materials—instructions to students, stimulus materials, slides, rubrics, frequently asked questions, links, and sample student projects—are downloadable from the Association for Business Communication website.
Unveiling cell-type-specific microRNA networks through alternative polyadenylation in glioblastoma
Authors: Cihan Mert , Schmauck Greta , Sprang Maximilian , Andrade-Navarro Miguel A.
Published: January 2025

Background

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is characterized by its cellular complexity, with a microenvironment consisting of diverse cell types, including oligodendrocyte precursor cells (OPCs) and neoplastic CD133 + radial glia-like cells. This study focuses on exploring the distinct cellular transitions in GBM, emphasizing the role of alternative polyadenylation (APA) in modulating microRNA-binding and post-transcriptional regulation.

Results

Our research identified unique APA profiles that signify the transitional phases between neoplastic cells and OPCs, underscoring the importance of APA in cellular identity and transformation in GBM. A significant finding was the disconnection between differential APA events and gene expression alterations, indicating that APA operates as an independent regulatory mechanism. We also highlighted the specific genes in neoplastic cells and OPCs that lose microRNA-binding sites due to APA, which are crucial for maintaining stem cell characteristics and DNA repair, respectively. The constructed networks of microRNA-transcription factor-target genes provide insights into the cellular mechanisms influencing cancer cell survival and therapeutic resistance.

Conclusions

This study elucidates the APA-driven regulatory framework within GBM, spotlighting its influence on cell state transitions and microRNA network dynamics. Our comprehensive analysis using single-cell RNA sequencing data to investigate the microRNA-binding sites altered by APA profiles offers a robust foundation for future research, presenting a novel approach to understanding and potentially targeting the complex molecular interplay in GBM.
Lessons from the pandemic: Relationship between patient visits and patient length of stay in California’s health system
Authors: Cho David D. , Wang Yu
Published: January 2025

Background

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic placed a heavy strain on the United States healthcare system. Common hospital operational performances were impacted to varying degrees by the pandemic. This study examined the healthcare operational measures during COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods

This cross-sectional study examined the COVID-19 cases and death counts of 56 California counties and hospital-level utilization data of 397 hospitals in California from January 2019 to March 2021.

Results

A total of 56 California counties were analysed, of which 37 counties were urban and 19 counties were rural. Average patient length of stay was positively associated with the number of intensive care unit visits by COVID-19 patients for all counties, as well as urban and rural counties separately. However, average patient length of stay was negatively associated with the number of inpatient visits by COVID-19 patients for all counties and urban counties.

Conclusions

The findings suggest that, while the need for additional beds and nursing staff in intensive care units exceeded initial estimates, there were also opportunities to streamline the care process for improved efficiency in regular acute care units. The understanding of factors impacting average patient length of stay would be valuable for hospital administrators in optimizing resource allocation and utilization to balance patient outcomes with financial sustainability during disruptive events.
A comparative analysis in monitoring 24-hour urinary copper in wilson disease: sampling on or off treatment?
Authors: Mohr Isabelle , Lamade Patrick , Weber Christophe , Leidner Viola , Köhrer Sebastian , Olkus Alexander , Lang Matthias , Langel Andrea , Dankert Patrischia , Greibich Melanie , Wolf Silke , Zimmer Holger , Michl Patrick , Poujois Aurélia , Weiss Karl Heinz , Merle Uta
Published: January 2025

Background & Aim

Twenty-four-hour urinary copper excretion (24 h-UCE) is the standard diagnostic tool for dose adjustments in maintenance therapy in Wilson disease (WD) patients. Guidelines lack data if both variants of 24 h-UCE measurement (with or without 48 h of treatment interruption) are equally interpretable.

Methods

Eighty-four patients with a confirmed diagnosis of WD treated with chelators (50% of patients with D-Penicillamine and 50% with trientine) and with pairwise 24-h-UCE values on-therapy and off-therapy were included in the analysis. Pairwise urinary sampling between October 2022 (T0) and a 12-month FU (T2) was compared, and exchangeable copper (CuEXC) was additionally measured at T0.

Results

Among the 84 patients, 65% had predominant hepatic symptoms, the median age was 42 years, and 58% were female. At T0, patients were in the stable maintenance phase, with a median treatment duration of 21.9 years. The levels of the biochemical markers liver and copper metabolism remained stable over the 12-month observation period for all patients. 24 h-UCE off-therapy significantly decreased from T0 to T2 (p = 0.03), whereas no statistically significant differences were detected for 24 h-UCE after therapy. Both sampling methods did not correlate. CuEXC was significantly correlated with 24 h-UCE after 48 h of dose interruption (p = 0.018) but not with 24 h-UCE after therapy. A total of 46% of the 24 h-UCE value pairs were discordant, laying out the aimed therapeutic ranges given in current international guidelines.

Conclusion

Off-therapy 24 h-UCE reflects the “free” copper pool more accurately than does urinary sampling. The study shows discordant results for both sampling methods in approximately half of the patients, revealing that interpretation of 24 h-UCE with respect to chelator-dosing decisions should be performed with caution.
Identification of novel RIPK4 variants in a Chinese patient with Arthrogryposis Multiplex Congenita (AMC)
Authors: Lu Yi-Lei , Liu Meng-wei , Jin Jie-Yuan , Pan Ding
Published: January 2025

Background

Arthrogryposis multiplex congenita (AMC) is a congenital disorder characterized by multiple joint involvement, primarily affecting limb mobility and leading to various tissue contractures. Variations in the RIPK4 gene may impact connective tissues, thereby resulting in a spectrum of malformations. This study aimed to identify the genetic etiologies of AMC patients and provide genetic testing information for further diagnosis and treatment of AMC.

Methods

We recruited a Chinese female patient with hand-related AMC and her family members. Whole-exome sequencing (WES) was employed to determine the genetic etiologies of the patient’s disease. The pathogenic mechanisms of the identified variations were analyzed using protein tolerance profiling and modeling.

Results

We identified two novel RIPK4 variants (c.1354G > A, p.E452K; c.1558A > T, p.T520S). Pathogenicity studies indicated that the c.1354G > A, p.E452K variant changed the charge from negative to positive and altered the chemical properties from acidic to alkaline, potentially significantly affecting protein function.

Conclusions

We reported the discovery of two novel RIPK4 variants (c.1354G > A, p.E452K; c.1558A > T, p.T520S) in a Chinese AMC female patient’s family. Our study enhances the genetic repository for AMC and highlights the pathogenicity of RIPK4 variants, underscoring the significance of comprehensive management for genetic-related diseases, particularly the critical roles of prenatal diagnosis and genetic counseling.

Trial registration

The research protocol received approval from the Ethics Review Committee of Xiangya Hospital of Central South University in China (approval number: 202103427), registered in March 2021, with all participants providing duly signed informed consent forms.
A new epidemic wave of Bordetella pertussis in paediatric population: impact and role of co-infections in pertussis disease
Authors: Scutari Rossana , Linardos Giulia , Ranno Stefania , Pisani Mara , Vittucci Anna Chiara , Coltella Luana , Colagrossi Luna , Di Maio Velia Chiara , Sisto Annamaria , Mancinelli Livia , Landi Simona , Cristaldi Sebastian , Raponi Massimiliano , Bernaschi Paola , Villani Alberto , Russo Cristina , Perno Carlo Federico
Published: January 2025

Background

In recent months, Bordetella pertussis has reappeared after maintaining a low rate for many years. Although pertussis is usually characterized by a favorable course, several factors can contribute to the severity of the disease, such as mixed respiratory infections. In this study, we evaluate B.pertussis cases observed in the pediatric population followed at the Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital and analyzed the potential impact of co-infections in relation to disease severity.

Methods

From January to May 2024, a total of 1,151 children and adolescents (both inpatients and outpatients) were screened for the presence of respiratory pathogens, including B.pertussis, with clinically relevant respiratory symptoms.

Results

Among the 1,151 patients screened, 66 tested positive for B.pertussis. Fourteen patients had respiratory failure, and six of them required intensive care unit (ICU) admission, while 52 had mild infection. 23.3% of patients had B.pertussis alone, while 76.7% had co-infections (including 5 patients admitted to the ICU). A higher co-infection rate was observed in patients with respiratory failure than in those without failure (92.9% vs. 69.0%, p-value:0.041). Rhinovirus, Metapneumovirus and Parainfluenza-virus were the most prevalent in our pediatric population. Co-infections of human bocavirus with B.pertussis were observed exclusively in patients with respiratory failure.

Conclusions

Our results highlighted an increase in B.pertussis cases from January to May 2024, reaching a peak of cases in the month of May. This study shows a high rate of B.pertussis co-infection, and a trend toward association between B.pertussis and specific viruses, that might play a role in increasing disease severity.
Prehospital lactate analysis in suspected sepsis improves detection of patients with increased mortality risk: an observational study
Authors: Andersson Maria , Fröderberg Schooner Karin , Karlsson Werther Viktor , Karlsson Thomas , De Geer Lina , Wilhelms Daniel B. , Holmbom Martin , Fredrikson Mats , Östholm Åse , Berg Sören , Hanberger Håkan
Published: January 2025

Background

Rapid, adequate treatment is crucial to reduce mortality in sepsis. Risk stratification scores used at emergency departments (ED) are limited in detecting all septic patients with increased mortality risk. We assessed whether the addition of prehospital lactate analysis to clinical risk stratification tools improves detection of patients with increased risk for rapid deterioration and death in sepsis.

Methods

A10-month observational study with consecutive, prospective prehospital inclusion of adult patients with suspected sepsis. Prehospital lactate was used as a continuous variable and in intervals. Analyses of patient subgroups with high and lower priorities according to Rapid Emergency Triage and Treatment System (RETTS) and National Early Warning Score 2 (NEWS2) were performed. Primary outcome was 30-day mortality, secondary outcomes were sepsis at the ED and in-hospital mortality.

Results

In all, 714 patients were included with a 30-day mortality of 10%. Among the 322 cases (45%) fulfilling Sepsis-3 criteria, the 30-day mortality was 14%. Prehospital lactate was higher among non-survivors (2.6 vs 2.0 mmol/L, p < 0.001). Mortality at different lactate intervals were: 6.7%, at 0–2 mmol/l; 10.0% at > 2–3 mmol/l; 19.2% at > 3–4 mmol/l; and 17.0% at levels > 4 mmol/l. The highest RETTS priority (red) group had higher lactate levels than the lower (non-red) priority group (2.5 vs 1.9 mmol/L, p < 0.001). In the non-red group, prehospital lactate was higher among non-survivors (2.4 vs 1.8 mmol/L, p = 0.002). In the multivariable regression analysis, prehospital lactate > 3 mmol/l was a predictor of 30-day mortality (OR 2.20, p = 0.009) This association was even stronger in the lower priority RETTS non-red group (OR 3.02, p = 0.009). Adding prehospital lactate > 3 mmol/l increased identification of non-survivors from 48 to 68% in the RETTS red group and from 77 to 85% for the NEWS2 ≥ 7 group.

Conclusion

The addition of a prehospital lactate level > 3 mmol/l improved early recognition of individuals with increased mortality risk in a cohort with suspected sepsis admitted to the ED. This was particularly evident in patients whose risk stratification scores did not indicate severe illness. We suggest that the addition of prehospital lactate analysis could improve recognition of subjects with suspected sepsis and increased mortality risk.

Graphical Abstract
Application of antisense oligonucleotide drugs in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and Huntington’s disease
Authors: Ou Kaili , Jia Qingqing , Li Dandan , Li Shihua , Li Xiao-Jiang , Yin Peng
Published: January 2025

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and Huntington’s disease (HD) are diverse in clinical presentation and are caused by complex and multiple factors, including genetic mutations and environmental factors. Numerous therapeutic approaches have been developed based on the genetic causes and potential mechanisms of ALS and HD. Currently, available treatments for various neurodegenerative diseases can alleviate symptoms but do not provide a definitive cure. Gene therapy, which aims to modify or express specific proteins for neuroprotection or correction, is considered a powerful tool in managing neurodegenerative conditions. To date, antisense oligonucleotide (ASO) drugs targeting the pathological genes associated with ALS and HD have shown promising results in numerous animal studies and several clinical trials. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the development, mechanisms of action, limitations, and clinical applications of ASO drugs in neurodegenerative diseases, with a specific focus on ALS and HD therapeutic strategies.
Spatiotemporal variation of high-temperature events and its relation to coral bleaching in the Ryukyu Islands, Japan
Authors: Yasunaka Sayaka , Kurihara Haruko , Doi Takeshi
Published: January 2025

Coral bleaching occurs when symbiotic dinoflagellate algae leave corals due to warming surface waters. Since the early 1980s, the number and intensity of coral bleaching events have significantly risen globally, and many coral reefs are concerned to undergo irreversible phase shifts due to global warming. In this study, we examine spatiotemporal variations and relationships of high-temperature events, high-temperature anomaly events, and coral bleaching around the Ryukyu Islands, Japan. We also explore the correlation between these occurrences and the large-scale climate variability, El Niño–Southern Oscillation and Indian Ocean Dipole. More than 99% of the high-temperature events occurred from June to October, and more than 80% occurred from July to September, whereas high-temperature anomaly events occurred all year round. Corresponding with high-temperature events, more than 10% of the data reported overall bleaching, and more than 25% reported partial bleaching from June to October. Over 40% of data reported bleaching in August, of which 50% of these reports were categorized as overall bleaching and the remainder as partial. The spatial distribution of coral bleaching also corresponded better with high-temperature events than high-temperature anomaly events. In 2016, extensive and severe coral bleaching was reported around the Okinawa, Miyako, and Yaeyama Islands, where intense high-temperature events had occurred. The central-to-eastern equatorial Pacific displayed a negative sea surface temperature anomaly, and the eastern Indian Ocean did a positive anomaly following high-temperature events near the Ryukyu Islands. These findings indicated that the high-temperature events around the Ryukyu Islands show correlation with La Niña and a negative Indian Ocean Dipole. If the cumulative temperature of high-temperature events exceeds 56 °C-days every three years in the late 2030s, then the corals around the Ryukyu Islands will suffer high mortality within 20 years.