bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Forms of autonomy and dependence in food aid: unravelling how they are related and perceived by recipients
Authors: Andriessen Thirza , van der Horst Hilje , Morrow Oona
Published: February 2025

Dependence is an inherent aspect of human existence, yet independence and autonomy are powerful ideals, especially where they seem lacking. In the case of food aid, the dependence that it signifies is often experienced as shameful. Food justice scholars and practitioners advocate that people with low incomes should have greater autonomy in exercising their right to food, for example by receiving cash transfers instead of food donations. In this paper, we challenge an understanding of autonomy defined in opposition to dependence. Using a relational autonomy lens, we unravel how practices of autonomy are interrelated with forms of dependence in a food aid initiative. By better understanding these interrelations, and how forms of autonomy and dependence are experienced by recipients, it becomes possible to have more informed debates about desirable and undesirable ways of doing food aid. Our analysis is rooted in an ethnographic case study of a pilot program for money-based food aid in the Netherlands. This program gave food-insecure households a weekly budget to buy healthy groceries at regular stores. We unravel how this form of food aid shifted dependencies compared to the parcel-based aid it replaced, and how this reshaped practices of autonomy for recipients. Through the themes ‘concealing and revealing charity’, ‘upholding norms and caring through food choices’, and ‘budget management with a safety net’, we demonstrate how individual competencies, social relations, technologies, and institutional structures shape forms of dependence and autonomy. We show how recipients appreciated these forms as they navigated the demands of consumer society, motherhood, public welfare programs, and living on a low income. We also note that receiving a charitable budget for food heightened a feeling of vulnerability to sanctions from public welfare providers who might mistake it as income. We conclude that providing appropriate food aid includes self-determination in meeting food needs and the ability to uphold the social norms of consumer choice and financial responsibility, while also embedding such practices in relations of care that alleviate stress, protect the grocery budget, and support healthy diets.
A critical review of artificial intelligence based techniques for automatic prediction of cephalometric landmarks
Authors: Neeraja R. , Anbarasi L. Jani
Published: February 2025

Automatic cephalometric landmark detection has emerged as a pivotal area of research that combines medical imaging, computer vision, and orthodontics. The identification of cephalometric landmarks is of utmost importance in the field of orthodontics, as it contributes significantly to the process of diagnosing and planning treatments, as well as conducting research on craniofacial aspects. This practice holds the potential to improve clinical decision-making and ultimately increase the outcomes for patients. This work explores a wide range of strategies, encompassing both traditional edge-based methods and advanced deep learning approaches. The study leveraged various academic publication databases like IEEEXplore, ScienceDirect, arXiv, Springer and PubMed to thoroughly search for articles related to automatic cephalometric landmark detection. Additionally, other pertinent publications were acquired from credible sources like Google Scholar and Wiley databases. Screening the articles relied on three selection criteria: (a) publication titles, abstracts, literature reviews, (b) cephalometric radiograph datasets suitable for 2D landmarking, and (c) studies conducted over different time periods were employed to gain a comprehensive understanding of the evolution of methodologies used in landmark prediction to identify the most relevant papers for this review. The initial electronic database search identified 268 papers on landmark detection. A total of 118 publications were selected and incorporated in the present study after a meticulous screening process. Performance analysis was conducted on studies that reported Successful Detection Rates (SDRs) within different clinically accepted precision ranges, Mean Radial Error (MRE) with Standard Deviation (SD) between manually annotated and automated landmarks as outcomes. Bar graphs and custom combination plots were utilized to analyse the correlations among different methodologies employed and their evaluation metrics outcomes. The performance comparison results indicate that Deep Learning techniques showed superior accuracy in automating 2D cephalometric landmarks compared to other conventional and Machine Learning approaches. Recently, more advanced Deep Learning algorithms have been developed to improve the accuracy of automatic landmark prediction.
Investigation of the probiotic effects of Lactobacillus sakei 2–3 and Candida zeylanoides Y12-3 strains in rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss, Walbaum 1792)
Authors: Taha Mohanad Dheyaa , Didinen Behire Işıl , Yilmaz Sevdan , Gürkan Mert , Kenanoğlu Osman Nezih
Published: February 2025

This study aimed to assess individual and combined effects of candidate probiotic strains C. zeylanoides Y12-3 and L. sakei 2–3 on growth, hematological parameters, serum immunological parameters, serum biochemistry, histopathology, histomorphology, expression of immune and antioxidant enzyme genes, and disease resistance against L. garvieae in rainbow trout. The fish were fed four different feeds (control, L. sakei 2–3, C. zeylanoides Y12-3, and L. sakei 2–3 + C. zeylanoides Y12-3) for 60 days. At the end of the experiment, growth parameters, serum glucose levels, serum lysozyme activity, and expression of immune and antioxidant enzyme genes were significantly increased in the probiotic groups. Additionally, triglyceride levels decreased in the probiotic groups compared to the control group, whereas serum ALT levels did not change. The villus width and the number of goblet cells increased in the proximal intestines of the fish in C. zeylanoides and L. sakei + C. zeylanoides groups. L. sakei 2–3 showed higher superoxide anion production, expression of immune genes (IgM, IL-B1, lysozyme, TNF-α, HSP70) in the kidney, antioxidant enzyme genes (GPX, GST, SOD) in the liver compared to C. zeylanoides. TNF-α, HSP70), and antioxidant enzyme genes (GPX, GST, SOD) compared to C. zeylanoides. L. sakei and the combination of L. sakei + C. zeylanoides provided resistance to L. garvieae compared to the control group. However, C. zeylanoides was similar to the other two probiotic groups regarding disease resistance against L. garvieae. However, histopathological examinations revealed reversible changes in the proximal intestine, anterior kidney, and liver of fish in the C. zeylanoides and L. sakei + C. zeylanoides groups. Hence, future studies are still required to explore the effects of shorter-term use of the C. zeylanoides strain in rainbow trout to prevent undesirable effects on tissues. In brief, the findings, as mentioned above, showed that L. sakei 2–3 and C. zeylanoides Y12-3 could be potential probiotic candidates for use in rainbow trout farming. Moreover, the probiotic effects of both strains on different fish species should also be studied.
Hypoxia-inducible factor and cellular senescence in pulmonary aging and disease
Authors: Thapa Riya , Marianesan Arockia Babu , Rekha A. , Ganesan Subbulakshmi , Kumari Mukesh , Bhat Asif Ahmad , Ali Haider , Singh Sachin Kumar , Chakraborty Amlan , MacLoughlin Ronan , Gupta Gaurav , Dua Kamal
Published: February 2025

Cellular senescence and hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF) signaling are crucial in pulmonary aging and age-related lung diseases such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis and lung cancer. HIF plays a pivotal role in cellular adaptation to hypoxia, regulating processes like angiogenesis, metabolism, and inflammation. Meanwhile, cellular senescence leads to irreversible cell cycle arrest, triggering the senescence-associated secretory phenotype which contributes to chronic inflammation, tissue remodeling, and fibrosis. Dysregulation of these pathways accelerates lung aging and disease progression by promoting oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, and epigenetic alterations. Recent studies indicate that HIF and senescence interact at multiple levels, where HIF can both induce and suppress senescence, depending on cellular conditions. While transient HIF activation supports tissue repair and stress resistance, chronic dysregulation exacerbates pulmonary pathologies. Furthermore, emerging evidence suggests that targeting HIF and senescence pathways could offer new therapeutic strategies to mitigate age-related lung diseases. This review explores the intricate crosstalk between these mechanisms, shedding light on how their interplay influences pulmonary aging and disease progression. Additionally, we discuss potential interventions, including senolytic therapies and HIF modulators, that could enhance lung health and longevity.
Epigenetic drugs in cancer therapy
Authors: Suraweera Amila , O’Byrne Kenneth J. , Richard Derek J.
Published: February 2025

Genetic and epigenetic modifications of DNA are involved in cancer initiation and progression. Epigenetic modifications change chromatin structure and DNA accessibility and thus affect DNA replication, DNA repair and transcription. Epigenetic modifications are reversible and include DNA methylation, histone acetylation and histone methylation. DNA methylation is catalysed by DNA methyltransferases, histone acetylation and deacetylation are catalysed by histone acetylases and deacetylases, while histone methylation is catalysed by histone methyltransferases. Epigenetic modifications are dysregulated in several cancers, making them cancer therapeutic targets. Epigenetic drugs (epi-drugs) which are inhibitors of epigenetic modifications and include DNA methyltransferase inhibitors (DNMTi), histone deacetylase inhibitors (HDACi), histone methyltransferase inhibitors (HMTi) and bromodomain and extra-terminal motif protein inhibitors (BETi), have demonstrated clinical success as anti-cancer agents. Furthermore, the combination of epi-drugs with standard chemotherapeutic agents has demonstrated promising anti-cancer effects in pre-clinical and clinical settings. In this review, we discuss the role of epi-drugs in cancer therapy and explore their current and future use in combination with other anti-cancer agents used in the clinic. We further highlight the side effects and limitations of epi-drugs. We additionally discuss novel delivery methods and novel tumour epigenetic biomarkers for the screening, diagnosis and development of personalised cancer treatments, in order to reduce off-target toxicity and improve the specificity and anti-tumour efficacy of epi-drugs.
What responsibility gaps are and what they should be
Authors: Veluwenkamp Herman
Published: February 2025

Responsibility gaps traditionally refer to scenarios in which no one is responsible for harm caused by artificial agents, such as autonomous machines or collective agents. By carefully examining the different ways this concept has been defined in the social ontology and ethics of technology literature, I argue that our current concept of responsibility gaps is defective. To address this conceptual flaw, I argue that the concept of responsibility gaps should be revised by distinguishing it into two more precise concepts: epistemic responsibility gaps (ERG) and control misalignments (CM). ERG functions as a refined version addressing specific aspects of responsibility attribution. It captures the challenge of identifying who is to blame. CM, on the other hand, introduces a new dimension by focusing on misalignments of control. These revisions offer better guidelines for the development and oversight of artificial agents, both in terms of assigning blame and ensuring the right distribution of control.
A Broadside Yagi-Uda Antenna with Enhanced Gain for mm-Wave Applications
Authors: Korres Alexandros , Papananos Yannis
Published: February 2025

This work presents an original planar Yagi-Uda antenna utilizing only two metal layers to achieve broadside emission. The proposed design generates traveling waves and redirects them upwards, forming an oblique, highly directive main lobe. This feature facilitates integration into 2D array structures, distinguishing it from standard end-fire Yagi-Uda configurations, which are typically arranged linearly in one dimension. The implemented PCB prototype has a compact footprint of 12.5 × 20 mm2 and is optimized for mm-wave 5G applications. Operating within the 34.5 to 41.5 GHz frequency band, the antenna achieves outstanding performance, with a maximum radiation efficiency of 98% and a measured peak gain of 12.5 dB. Notably, the broadside emission produces a narrow main lobe tilted by 30° at 38 GHz. Additionally, this study outlines key principles for scaling the design, enabling adaptation to diverse technologies, and ensuring broad platform compatibility.
Technologies and Applications of Robots in Dementia Care: A Systematic Review
Authors: Wu Dongjun , Pu Lihui , Jo Jun , Moyle Wendy
Published: February 2025

Socially assistive robotics (SARs) can provide social interventions for people living with dementia. Although several SARs have been introduced, the absence of their evaluation and discussion has restricted the development and use of robots in dementia care. This paper systematically reviews robot technologies, explores their applications, and provides systematic information for technology development, selection, and implementation for robots in dementia care. Following the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines, articles from January 1990 to May 2023 were retrieved from seven databases and 38 eligible articles were identified. Nineteen SARs were identified and reviewed, encompassing physical features, sensing capabilities, perception, user modeling, and interaction technologies. The robot personality framework, which classified SARs as animal-like, human-like, and artificial-being, was employed to compare technologies, applications, and clinical outcomes. In addition, the experimental methodologies and study quality of existing studies were compared and discussed. This study found that technologies shape the robot’s personality and contribute to its applications. Future studies could be based on their application purpose, which could guide the selection, development, and implementation of robot technologies, thereby promoting SAR applications in dementia care. In addition, studies with large sample sizes, rigorous study designs, and detailed intervention descriptions are recommended, which could enhance study quality and promote robot technologies and applications in dementia care.
Influence of pre-inoculation treatment on non-metallic micro-inclusion population and microstructure of spheroidal graphite irons
Authors: Pires António , Michels Leander , Simões Sónia , Hartung Cathrine , Ott Emmanuelle , Kroka Bente , Ribeiro Carlos Silva
Published: February 2025

Producing high-quality spheroidal graphite irons has become challenging due to the need for high-quality raw materials. The iron-silicon-carbon alloy microstructure is influenced by the non-metallic micro-inclusions (microparticles) dispersed in the melt that can act as exogenous nucleation sites for graphite during solidification. For that, ferrosilicon alloys with specially selected active elements are often added to the melt to modify those micro-inclusions during the production of this material. In this context, the present study investigates the effect of a (Zr, Al, Ca)-ferrosilicon on micro-inclusion dispersion and microstructure of spheroidal graphite irons, as a pre-inoculation addition, where the sulfur and oxygen activity are the highest. The micro-inclusions were analyzed based on their chemical composition, area fraction, number density, and size distribution. The data suggests that the oxide population is greatly affected by coarsening of the oxide inclusions when the melt is pre-inoculated. Furthermore, the pre-inoculation treatment leads to the formation of more complex multiphase inclusions. Graphite nucleus types were statistically reported, and the results show that they are mainly sulfides and nitrides.

Graphical abstract
Electrical impedance tomography for PEEP titration in ARDS patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Sanchez-Piedra Carlos , Rodríguez-Ortiz-de-Salazar Begoña , Roca Oriol , Prado-Galbarro Francisco-Javier , Perestelo-Perez Lilisbeth , Sanchez-Gomez Luis-Maria
Published: February 2025

To assess the efficacy of electrical impedance tomography (EIT)-guided positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) titration in improving outcomes for patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). A systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Randomized controlled trials and observational studies with a control group comparing EIT-guided PEEP titration to other strategies were included. Endpoints analysed included mortality, days of mechanical ventilation (MV), intensive care unit (ICU) length of stay (LOS), weaning success rate, barotrauma, driving pressure (∆P), mechanical power (MP), Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) score and adverse events. Pooled results were presented as Risk Ratio (RR) for dichotomous outcomes and standardized difference in means (SMD) for continuous outcomes. A total of 4 studies were identified (3 randomized controlled trials and one observational study). All studies were single-center studies (N total = 271 patients). The main limitations were related to potential bias in selecting reported outcomes. EIT-guided PEEP titration was associated with a significant reduction in mortality among critically ill patients with ARDS (RR = 0.64, 95% CI: 0.45–0.91). No significant differences were found in other outcomes. Our findings suggest that EIT may be a valuable tool for PEEP titration in critically ill patients with ARDS. By optimizing lung mechanics, EIT-guided PEEP titration may potentially reduce mortality rates. While larger, multicenter studies are needed to definitively establish the clinical role of EIT in ARDS management, our results provide promising evidence for its potential clinical impact.
DiCARTTM device to measure capillary refill time: a validation study in patients with acute circulatory failure
Authors: Descamps Alexandre , Jacquet-Lagrèze Matthias , Aussal Thomas , Fellahi Jean-Luc , Ruste Martin
Published: February 2025

Capillary Refill Time (CRT) is a valuable metric to assess cutaneous perfusion. Its prognostic value in patients with acute circulatory failure has been reported as improved when the measurement is standardized. The DiCART™ device is a fully automated CRT measurement tool requiring validation. We conducted a comparative interventional single-center study including 25 patients with acute circulatory failure, to evaluate the agreement between CRT measured by an automated measurement device (CRTDiCART) and CRT measured clinically (CRTCLIN). CRT was measured on the fingertip, chest, and knee. Three measurements were performed at each location to obtain an average for each site. The measurements were conducted both clinically and using the DiCART™ device by two different operators, each blinded to the results. Agreement was determined using intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) and Bland and Altman analysis. The ICC between CRTCLIN and CRTDiCART was 0.46 (95% Confidence Interval (CI) 0.32, 0.59) across all measurement sites; the mean bias was 0.23s (95% CI -0.17, 0.64), with upper Limit of Agreement (LoA) 2.77s (95% CI 2.44, 3.20) and lower LoA − 2.30s (-2.73, -1.97). Intra observer ICC was 0.85 (95% CI 0.74, 0.91) for CRTCLIN and 0.43 (95% CI 0.15, 0.64) for CRTDICART. Inter observer ICC was 0.86 (95% CI 0.76, 0.92) for CRTCLIN and was 0.41 (95% CI 0.14, 0,63) for CRTDICART. The DiCART™ device showed poor agreement with clinical CRT in patients with acute circulatory failure, which does not support its use in routine practice.
Time Spent Gaming, Depressive Symptoms, and Behavioral Activation: A Longitudinal Mediation Study on Predictors of Gaming Disorder
Authors: Jin Jackson T. , Cassidy Samantha G. , Lechner William V.
Published: February 2025

Studies have demonstrated that mental health symptoms and time spent gaming are associated with increased symptoms of gaming disorder. However, few studies explore mediators that may shed light on longitudinal associations or causal pathways. Proposed theories suggest that reduced engagement in meaningful and rewarding activities outside of gaming may initiate a cycle of increased dependence on gaming to derive reward, but empirical evidence is lacking. The current study assessed a series of micro-longitudinal mediation models analyzing relationships between (1) time spent gaming and gaming disorder and (2) depressive symptoms and gaming disorder, with behavioral activation level set as a potential mediator. Daily video game players (n = 98) were recruited to complete three waves of measures assessing negative emotion and game-play characteristics during a baseline session and weekly follow-ups over 2 weeks. Self-reported time spent gaming was associated with decreased levels of behavioral activation, which subsequently, was associated with elevated gaming disorder symptoms. Similarly, depressive symptoms were significantly associated with increased gaming disorder symptoms via lower behavioral activation levels. However, both models demonstrated non-significant indirect effects when baseline values of variables (thus assessing change) were controlled for. Additionally, meaningful differences between objective logged data and subjective self-report estimates of time spent gaming were observed and may explain discrepancies across models examining this variable. The current results indicate that both depressive symptoms and behavioral activation levels may play important roles in the development of problematic gaming patterns; however, further research is needed to build confidence for causal relationships between these variables. Future directions and specific recommendations for advancing the current findings are discussed.
Compatible basal area models for live and dying trees using diffusion processes
Authors: Rupšys Petras
Published: February 2025

Models that predict a forest stand’s evolution are essential for developing plans for sustainable management. A simple mathematical framework was developed that considers the individual tree and stand basal area under random resource competition and is based on two assumptions: (1) a sigmoid-type stochastic process governs tree and stand basal area dynamics of living and dying trees, and (2) the total area that a tree may potentially occupy determines the number of trees per hectare. The most effective method to satisfy these requirements is formalizing each tree diameter and potentially occupied area using Gompertz-type stochastic differential equations governed by fixed and mixed-effect parameters. Data from permanent experimental plots from long-term Lithuania experiments were used to construct the tree and stand basal area models. The new models were relatively unbiased for live trees of all species, including silver birch (Betula pendula Roth) and downy birch (Betula pubescens Ehrh.), [spruce (Picea abies), and pine (Pinus sylvestris)]. Less reliable predictions were made for the basal area of dying trees. Pines gave the highest accuracy prediction of mean basal area among all live trees. The mean basal area prediction for all dying trees was lower than that for live trees. Among all species, pine also had the best average basal area prediction accuracy for live trees. Newly developed basal area growth and yield models can be recommended despite their complex formulation and implementation challenges, particularly in situations when data is scarce. This is because the newly observed plot provides sufficient information to calibrate random effects.
Psychological supports for people living with a rare disease in Ireland: an online survey-based study
Authors: Nerney Darragh , O’Malley Emer , Kenny Caroline , Ward Alana , Sweeney Geraldine , McGrath Vicky , Egan Laura , Treacy Eileen
Published: February 2025

Background

People living with rare diseases have reported high unmet support needs for access to psychological services despite the significant impact rare diseases have on mental health.

Aims

This study aimed to explore experiences in accessing psychological supports in the Republic of Ireland, and ways in which supports can be improved.

Methods

An online survey was distributed to people living with rare diseases through Irish rare disease patient organisations and expert centres (May–June 2023). Paediatric and adult participants were included with carers providing information on behalf of those age < 18 years. A PRISMA-based scoping review was conducted to explore reported gaps in psychological supports for people living with rare diseases.

Results

Eligible responses were received from 142 participants (87 adults, 55 children, 94 females, 47 males). People living with rare diseases reported a need for psychological supports at all stages of their patient journey. Participants indicated that a rare disease has an impact on educational, social, and financial aspects of daily living. A lack of understanding of the rare disease by healthcare professionals, extended waiting times, and the financial burden of accessing supports were key themes identified by participants.

Conclusion

Living with a rare disease is associated with an increased mental health burden. Gaps remain in the provision of psychological supports for people affected by rare diseases. The integration of mental health supports into the care of people living with rare diseases should be a priority for the Irish health service.
Quo Vadis after AEGIS: New Opportunities for Therapies Targeted at Reverse Cholesterol Transport?
Authors: Lan Nick S. R. , Watts Gerald F.
Published: February 2025

Purpose of Review

High-density lipoprotein (HDL) is integral to reverse cholesterol transport (RCT), a process considered to protect against atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD). We summarise findings from the recent AEGIS-II trial and discuss new opportunities for HDL therapeutics targeted at RCT.

Recent Findings

Mendelian randomisation studies have suggested a causal association between the functional properties of HDL and ASCVD. However, the AEGIS-II trial of CSL112, an apolipoprotein A-I therapy that enhances cholesterol efflux, did not meet its primary endpoint. Exploratory analyses demonstrated that CSL112 significantly reduced ASCVD events among participants with a baseline low-density lipoprotein (LDL)-cholesterol ≥ 100 mg/dL, suggesting that RCT may depend on LDL-cholesterol levels.

The role of HDL therapeutics in patients with familial hypercholesterolaemia, inherited low HDL-cholesterol and impaired HDL function, especially with inadequately controlled LDL-cholesterol, merits further investigation. The treatment of patients with monogenic defects in HDL metabolism remains a significant gap in care that needs further research.
A Perspective on Home-Based Sexual Health Care: Evidence, Access, and Future Directions
Authors: (Hanneke) Goense Cornelia J.D. , Evers Ymke J. , Hoebe Christian J.P.A. , Dukers-Muijrers Nicole H.T.M.
Published: February 2025

Purpose

This perspective explores the impact of home-based sexual health services on accessibility to STI and HIV testing for priority populations. This study evaluates home-based services as independent care options and as complementary components of traditional clinic-based care.

Recent Findings

Challenges for persons to attend clinic-based sexual health care can be overcome by offering lower threshold home-based sexual health care. Implementing home-based services has successfully reached priority populations, including previously untested men who have sex with men (MSM) and individuals with a high exposure risk for sexually transmitted infections (STI) including human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), attending location-based sexual health care. A challenge in home-based services is to ensure equitable care, such as for individuals with limited access to digital resources or low health literacy.

While home-based sexual health services enhance the accessibility of sexual healthcare, to ensure equitable care, research into the needs of still underserved populations and subsequent tailoring of the care offered, is needed. Continuous monitoring and evaluation of the implementation of home-based services may maximize the advantages of this promising type of care.
Enhancing the Structure, Optical, and Antimicrobial Advancements of Starch/Chitosan Blend Through Green-Synthesized SeO2 Nanoparticles and Their Application for Ras Cheese Packaging
Authors: Ibrahim Ibrahim M. , Ebid Warda M. A. , Sayed Adel M. El
Published: February 2025

Antimicrobial film (a film incorporated with antimicrobial agents) is a promising active packaging material that can extend the shelf life and maintain the quality of food products. In this work, selenium oxide nanoparticles (SeO2-NPs) were green synthesized by halotolerant strain Bacillus subtilis EG5QL12 and then incorporated into a starch/chitosan (St/Cs) blend via the solution casting route. High-resolution transmission electron microscope (HR-TEM) revealed the spherical morphology of the prepared SeO2-NPs, which is about 14 nm in size. X-ray diffraction (XRD) also confirmed the formation of nanosized crystalline SeO2 and semicrystalline St/Cs blends. The main XRD peaks of the blend were shifted, indicating the complexation between St/Cs and the SeO2 nanofillers. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) spectra confirmed these structural changes in the blend, where the peaks became narrower and less intense. The field emission scan electron microscope/energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (FE-SEM/EDAX) analyses revealed the homogeneity between Cs and St and the steady distribution of Se inside the matrix. The St/Cs film exhibited high transmittance (87%) in the visible and IR ranges, significantly decreasing with increasing SeO2-NPs content. The indirect/indirect optical band gap shrank from 4.7 and 5.4 eV to 3.9 and 4.9 eV, respectively. The green-synthesized SeO2-NPs, blend, and nanocomposite demonstrated broad antimicrobial efficacy against gram-positive and gram-negative microorganisms. Of the checked microorganisms, Staphylococcus aureus was determined to be the most susceptible. Furthermore, Escherichia coli showed the least sensitivity to the solutions under study. The nanocomposite presented a highly significant influence on all examined microbes compared to both of its components alone, in addition to decreasing the amount used by both of them, due to the synergistic effect between chitosan and the SeO2-NPs that have the ability to increase the concentration of reactive oxygen species (ROS) within cells, disrupt the microbial cell membrane, and inhibit the synthesis of protein, and nucleic acid. The coating of Ras cheese with the nanocomposite solution resulted in improving and preserving the chemical, and microbiological characteristics of the cheese produced.
The Effect of Polyphenol-Loaded Electrospun Fibers in Food Systems
Authors: Günal-Köroğlu Deniz , Karabulut Gulsah , Catalkaya Gizem , Capanoglu Esra
Published: February 2025

Spinning technologies, including electrospinning, centrifugal spinning, solution blow spinning, and microfluidic spinning, are increasingly used to encapsulate bioactive compounds like polyphenols. Each method has distinct advantages: electrospinning offers precision and bioactivity preservation, centrifugal spinning is energy-efficient for large-scale production, solution blow spinning is rapid and scalable, and microfluidic spinning excels in creating complex fibers. Optimization of electrospinning parameters such as polymer concentration, core material content, voltage, and flow rate significantly impacts encapsulation efficiency, fiber morphology, and release profiles. Response surface methodology aids in optimizing these parameters. Studies demonstrate improved solubility, stability, and controlled release of encapsulated polyphenols. Incorporating additives like salts or nanoparticles further tailors nanofiber properties for specific functional needs. Electrospinning is also utilized in developing electrospun films for active and intelligent packaging, which incorporate polyphenols such as anthocyanins, flavonoids, phenolic acids, and phenolic extracts to provide antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. Polyphenol-loaded electrospun fibers (EFs) prevent oxidation, inhibit microbial growth, and maintain sensory qualities, thus extending food shelf life. Additionally, intelligent packaging with pH-sensitive and volatile gas-responsive films helps monitor freshness and spoilage. These technologies show promise in preserving a wide range of foods, including fruits, vegetables, meat, and seafood, by slowing metabolic processes and reducing deterioration.
Mereological Anti-Conservatism
Authors: Declos Alexandre , Grandjean Vincent
Published: February 2025

In this paper, we examine an overlooked answer to the Special Composition Question (SCQ), termed “Mereological Anti-Conservatism.” This view posits that extraordinary objects exist but that ordinary objects do not. For example, while tables and chairs do not exist, the mereological sums of these items do correspond to real objects. Although such a claim may initially seem absurd, we argue that (i) it is entirely derived from the claims and commitments of traditional rival theories—Nihilism, Universalism, and Conservatism; (ii) it resolves several issues that plague Conservatism, such as problems of vagueness, change and persistence, and the shortcomings of common sense; and (iii) it offers a more plausible perspective than Conservatism when considering the vast scale of possible worlds with differently segmented realities. Ultimately, we contend that if Anti-Conservatism is deemed implausible, then Conservatism must be as well, for structurally similar reasons.
Comparative Analysis of PAI Profiles in Intimate Partner Violence and Non-Victimized Samples
Authors: Paulino Mauro , Moniz Mariana , Moura Octávio , Rijo Daniel , Simões Mário R.
Published: February 2025

Intimate partner violence (IPV) is a serious cause of concern for forensic professionals, lawmakers, and society. However, only a few studies have investigated the features of IPV victimization that may aid in judicial cases and in providing appropriate treatment for victims. The main objective of the present study was to determine how the Personality Assessment Inventory (PAI) can differentiate between victimized and non-victimized women and assess its predictive value concerning victims’ profiles. Participants were divided into victims (initial sample: N = 132; and victims with valid PAI profiles: N = 107) and control (N = 107) groups based on the attribution of Victim/Particularly Vulnerable Victim status according to Portuguese legislation. We investigated how the PAI scales and subscales could discriminate between the two groups using ROC curve analysis, cut-off scores, and logistic regression models. ROC curve analysis and cut-off scores of Suicidal Ideation (SUI), Stress (STR), Traumatic Stress (ARD-T), Persecution (PAR-P), Affective Instability (BOR-A), Identity Problems (BOR-I), Negative Relationships (BOR-N), and Affective Depression (DEP-A) revealed adequate discrimination, and logistic regression analysis confirmed that these scales and subscales were relevant in the identification of IPV victims. Taken together, these results revealed that some expected PAI scales and subscales may accurately discriminate victims of IPV, which may be useful in forensic intervention and decision-making processes.
Evaluating Habitat Provisioning and Restoration Potential of a Subtropical Seagrass Species in a Temperate Estuary
Authors: Trackenberg Stacy N. , Baillie Christopher J. , Smith Dawsyn A. , Albright Anna M. , Blakeslee April M. H. , Donaher Sarah E. , Wellman Emory H. , Woodard Nina C. , Zhang Y. Stacy , Gittman Rachel K.
Published: February 2025

Accelerating human-induced losses of biogenic coastal ecosystems has prompted restoration of these critical habitats. In North Carolina, seagrass restoration has predominantly focused on Zostera marina, a temperate species, despite the potential for anthropogenic climate change to cause environmental shifts that favor Halodule wrightii, a tropical/subtropical species. We investigated how water depth and seasonality influenced H. wrightii distribution, restoration potential, and associated faunal community by (i) surveying North Carolina seagrass meadows to characterize their spatiotemporal distribution and morphology and (ii) conducting a restoration experiment testing the effect of transplantation depth (intertidal vs. subtidal) on H. wrightii restoration success and associated faunal communities. Surveyed meadows were increasingly dominated by H. wrightii from April to September. Seagrass within-species morphology differed across months, but only H. wrightii morphology and canopy height differed across depths, with canopy height increasing with bed depth. Intertidal H. wrightii transplants persisted > 18 months post-restoration, whereas nearly all subtidal transplants were lost within 6 months. We found no difference in faunal community abundance or structure between transplanted and control plots across depths. However, communities in the restored bed were less abundant and less species rich than those of a nearby reference bed. Although H. wrightii is widely distributed in estuarine waters of North Carolina, our results suggest small-scale transplantation does not lead to successful restoration or host communities equivalent to natural beds. Greater understanding of the role of H. wrightii as faunal habitat and identification of best restoration practices are critical to sustain and enhance ecosystem functioning in changing estuaries.
Advancements in Uricase formulations: overcoming therapeutic challenges in enzyme replacement therapy
Authors: Cho Woo Ho , Kim Hayon , Yoo So-Yeol , Lee Sang Min , Kim Taejung , Lee Jae-Young
Published: February 2025

Background

Uricase-based enzyme replacement therapies have emerged as an effective treatment for refractory gout and tumor lysis syndrome. However, their clinical adoption has been hindered by challenges such as instability, rapid clearance, and immune responses. While formulations such as PEGylated uricase have demonstrated clinical efficacy, they are limited by the development of anti-PEG antibodies, which reduces their therapeutic effectiveness. Thus, innovative drug delivery strategies are required to address these limitations and increase the effectiveness of uricase therapies.

Area covered

This review provides a comprehensive overview of uricase as a therapeutic enzyme and discusses both the approved formulations and recent advances in drug delivery systems (DDS) aimed at overcoming key challenges. It focuses on nanoparticle-based and polymer-conjugated systems designed to improve stability, extend enzyme half-life, and reduce immunogenicity. Additionally, this review explores the use of lipid-based carriers, polymeric nanoparticles, and inorganic frameworks to optimize enzyme delivery, offering insights into their potential to increase pharmacokinetics and minimize immune responses.

Expert opinion

Although uricase-based therapies show considerable promise for refractory gout and tumor lysis syndrome, challenges related to their stability, pharmacokinetics, and immunogenicity persist. Advanced DDS strategies offer viable solutions by stabilizing enzymes, prolonging circulation, and mitigating immune reactions. Achieving therapeutic efficacy requires balancing immune evasion and enzymatic activity to ensure long-term effectiveness. Further innovations in DDS are essential to develop safer and more reliable uricase therapies, expand their clinical use, and address unmet patient needs.
Utilizing a Hybrid Faculty-Guided, Self-Directed Study Model to Teach Immunology to First-Year Medical Students
Authors: Wong Shirley , Ely Kencie , Weinschreider Emily , Levy Josh , Simanton Edward , Netski Dale
Published: February 2025

This study evaluates the effectiveness of a hybrid, faculty-guided, self-directed learning model for teaching immunology to first-year medical students. It compares summative exam performance across five cohorts (2017–2021). The 2021 pilot course incorporated asynchronous videos, quizzes, and in-person sessions. Results show consistent performance across cohorts, except for the 2020 fully virtual cohort, which scored below the National Board of Medical Examiners (NBME) average. Student feedback highlighted the benefits of the hybrid model, particularly its flexibility and self-paced learning. These findings suggest that hybrid models can be used effectively to teach complex subjects like immunology with reduced in-person contact.
Is There a Relationship Between Medical Student Mistreatment and Specialty Choice and Career Intentions? A Systematic Review
Authors: Kaur Gursimrat , Peng Kevin , Urwin Rachel , Westbrook Johanna I. , McMullan Ryan D.
Published: February 2025

Background

Negative experiences such as mistreatment during clinical placement can have implications for medical student specialty preferences. The aim of this study was to synthesise research on the relationship between medical student mistreatment and their specialty and career choices.

Methods

We systematically searched five electronic databases (MEDLINE, Scopus, CINAHL, Embase, and PsycINFO) to identify studies published from database inception to June 2024 investigating the relationship between the mistreatment of medical students and their specialty choice and career intentions. Two reviewers independently screened articles for inclusion, assessed study quality, and extracted data. We performed a narrative synthesis of the included studies.

Results

We identified 11 studies. The majority used a cross-sectional study design (n = 10). Seven were conducted in the USA. Mistreatment in the form of verbal abuse, discrimination, harassment, and bullying was reported by medical students across the studies. Seven of the studies found an association between mistreatment and specialty or career choices. General surgery and surgical specialties were the most hostile environments for clinical placement and deterred students from pursuing these specialties. Mistreatment was frequently experienced by medical students who identified as female or as a sexual minority. In obstetrics and gynaecology, male students reported experiencing more mistreatment than females and were consequently more likely to change their career choices.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that students are less likely to pursue specialties if they experience mistreatment during clinical training. Medical students were especially deterred from general surgery and surgical specialties due to their experiences of discrimination.
The role of local promoters in helping microentrepreneurs engage in digital business training
Authors: Rodríguez-Lesmes Paul , Gutiérrez Luis H. , Urueña-Mejía Juan Carlos , Ortiz Andrés Felipe , Medina Rojas Iván Darío , Romero Mauricio
Published: February 2025

Policymakers face the challenge of delivering business training programs that are high-quality, scalable, and cost-effective. This paper examines the impact of Expertienda, a free, smartphone-based business training application designed for Colombian microentrepreneurs. Using a randomised controlled trial (RCT) and leveraging local promoters from nearby universities, we evaluated the program’s uptake and its effects on business practices, financial inclusion, and formalization. The study involved 994 microentrepreneurs across 10 Colombian cities, with data collected through administrative records and follow-up surveys one year after the intervention. The intervention increased app take-up by 3.97 percentage points, with no evidence of spillover effects across geographical boundaries. However, usage data reveals that the program struggled to engage users, as evidenced by low levels of interaction with the course. Moreover, we found no significant impacts on financial inclusion, formalization, business practices, or other key business outcomes. A high and unexpected attrition rate limited our ability to detect small effects, which are likely given the low levels of interaction with the app. This study is among the first to evaluate a mobile-based training intervention aimed at established microentrepreneurs who lack direct connections to the implementing organisation, providing important insights for the design and implementation of scalable digital training solutions.
The strength of waterjet cut float glass
Authors: Veer Fred , O’Callaghan James
Published: February 2025

For well over a millennium glass has been “cut” by scoring it with a diamond or similar hard material and bending it putting the score into tension. The result is a “clean” break of the glass along the score. As this has sharp edges, nowadays the edges are usually post-processed using grinding and polishing techniques. Unfortunately cutting works best for orthogonal shapes, although skilled personnel can cut complex shapes. Modern techniques such as water jet cutting are very suited for complex shapes and can be adapted to CNC techniques. However there is very little information on the strength of waterjet cut glass. To investigate this a large series of specimens were prepared using waterjet cutting using the settings suggested by the manufacturer. Small rectangular specimens in thicknesses of 4 mm, 6 mm, 8 mm and 10 mm were made, the edges examined using a digital microscope, tested in four point bending and the fracture patterns were studied. It was found that the 4 mm thick specimens had a lower average strength and higher coefficient of correlation than the 6, 8 and 10 mm specimens. The average strength and coefficient of correlation were comparable for the 6, 8 and 10 mm specimens. The upper side, facing towards the water jet, is slightly less strong than the lower side. The strength of waterjet cut glass is comparable to some batches of conventionally cut glass with ground, arrised and polished edges while the coefficient of correlation is lower. It was found that for the waterjet cut glass virtually all failures originated at the edges, in many cases multiple failures were observed in a single specimen.