bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On Valuing
Authors: Mitchell-Yellin Benjamin
Published: February 2025

We conceive of ourselves as valuing creatures, and this self-conception features prominently in a variety of philosophical literatures. Yet some argue that rival notions, such as caring, are more central to understanding human agency, well-being, and the sources of normativity for us. This chapter argues that both fans and detractors of valuing would benefit from an improved account of the attitude, one that takes valuing to include more than just evaluative belief and that interprets all relevant elements, including the belief that the valued object is good, in disositional terms. This fully dispositional account of valuing attempts to incorporate the whole self and remain sensitive to our imperfections.
The Virtues of Transparent Akrasia?
Authors: Flynn Andrew McKay
Published: February 2025

This chapter articulates an overlooked phenomenon dubbed “transparent” akrasia—roughly having one’s akrasia present to mind throughout one’s action—and argues for its significance. It begins by showing how the phenomenon is different from much-discussed cases of “lucid” or “clear-eyed” akrasia. Then it situates the phenomenon in the context of recent work questioning the irrationality of akrasia. It gives a novel account of what unites superficially different and conflicting work on this topic: the insight that akrasia can be good because it is explained by good motives. However, it also argues that such work has myopically focused on akrasia as a synchronic phenomenon and thus missed aspects of good motivation that only appear diachronically—like transparency. This claim motivates an account of the significance of transparent akrasia, which the chapter argues is, at least in important cases, the manifestation of a desire to take oneself and one’s failures seriously. The chapter concludes by showing how this account complicates and enriches our understanding of familiar cases of purportedly “good” akrasia.
Culpability for Moral Ignorance
Authors: Suni Ninni
Published: February 2025

This chapter argues that moral ignorance implies lack of care of morally relevant considerations as predicted by quality-of-will theories of responsibility, and thus moral ignorance, as opposed to circumstantial ignorance, does not excuse wrongdoing. A new attributionist framework for responsibility for attitudes is presented and supplemented with empirical studies on selective attention to explain the connection between caring and belief formation. The framework is then used to shed light on putative counterexamples to culpable moral ignorance by introducing attentional priority structures that help to distinguish between genuine lack of care as a moral mistake, and nonculpable carelessness that undermines something the agent actually cares about. The chapter ends with a definition of adequate caring and a response to the objection from moral heroism.
COME: contrastive mapping learning for spatial reconstruction of scRNA-seq data
Authors: Wei Xindian , Chen Tianyi , Wang Xibiao , Shen Wenjun , Liu Cheng , Wu Si , Wong Hau-San
Published: February 2025

Motivation

Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) enables high-throughput transcriptomic profiling at single-cell resolution. The inherent spatial location is crucial for understanding how single cells orchestrate multicellular functions and drive diseases. However, spatial information is often lost during tissue dissociation. Spatial transcriptomic (ST) technologies can provide precise spatial gene expression atlas, while their practicality is constrained by the number of genes they can assay or the associated costs at a larger scale and the fine-grained cell type annotation. By transferring knowledge between scRNA-seq and spatial transcriptomics data through cell correspondence learning, it is possible to recover the spatial properties inherent in scRNA-seq datasets.

Results

In this study, we introduce COME, a COntrastive Mapping lEarning approach that learns mapping between ST and scRNA-seq data to recover the spatial information of scRNA-seq data. Extensive experiments demonstrate that the proposed COME method effectively captures precise cell-spot relationships and outperforms previous methods in recovering spatial location for scRNA-seq data. More importantly, our method is capable of precisely identifying biologically meaningful information within the data, such as the spatial structure of missing genes, spatial hierarchical patterns, and the cell-type compositions for each spot. These results indicate that the proposed COME method can help to understand the heterogeneity and activities among cells within tissue environments.

Availability and implementation

The COME is freely available in GitHub (https://github.com/cindyway/COME)

Supplementary Information

Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
Compatibility of procreation, pregnancy, and early parenthood in female and male surgeons during surgical training in Switzerland: national survey study
Authors: Ferreirinha Joana , Weber Markus , Attigah Nicolas , Faes Seraina
Published: February 2025

Background

Lengthy training and stressful work schedules can cause surgeons to renounce part-time work and delay pregnancy. The aim of this survey study was to evaluate constraints of part-time work, procreation, pregnancy, and early parenthood among young surgeons in Switzerland.

Methods

An anonymous survey on different aspects of private life and surgical training was distributed to young board-certified general surgeons in Switzerland.

Results

Out of the 680 surveys sent, a total of 375 were completed (response rate of 55.1%), with 308 included for further analysis (157 from female participants and 151 from male participants). There was no difference between male and female participants in the time required for board and sub-specialty certification. Female participants had a higher rate (59 of 157 (37.6%) versus 28 of 151 (18.5%), P < 0.001) and longer duration (mean(s.d.) of 5.5(4.0) versus 1.8(1.1) years, P < 0.001) of part-time employment. Female participants less frequently had children (70 of 157 (44.6%) versus 106 of 151 (70.2%), P < 0.001). They were older (median age of 35 (interquartile range 33–37.5) years) than male participants (median age of 33.5 (interquartile range 31.75–35) years) (P < 0.001) and female partners of male participants (median age of 32 (interquartile range 30–33) years) (P < 0.001) at first childbirth. Female participants more frequently delayed pregnancy due to training (94 of 127 (74.0%) versus 28 of 138 (20.3%), P < 0.001) and had higher rates of infertility (16 of 70 (23%) versus 11 of 106 (10.4%), P = 0.032) and use of assisted reproductive technology (18 of 127 (14.2%) versus 6 of 138 (4.3%), P = 0.009). Female participants more frequently perceived their gender as a negative career influence (105 of 157 (66.9%) versus 9 of 151 (6.0%), P < 0.001).

Conclusion

Combining procreation, pregnancy, and early parenthood with surgical training is challenging for young surgeons in Switzerland. Providing equal opportunities for all genders and promoting changes in working conditions will be necessary to ensure optimal surgical training for future generations.
6 Risk factors of poor wound healing in open abdomen patients with fistula undergoing the abdominal wall reconstruction utilizing biological mesh
Authors: Liu Ye , Wu Xiuwen , Ren Jianan
Published: February 2025

Objective

The management of wound in open abdomen (OA) patients with fistula presents a significant clinical challenge, this study aimed to evaluate the clinical characteristics of and identify risk factors of poor wound healing following abdominal wall reconstruction using biologic mesh.

Methods

The study included 86 patients, who underwent abdominal wall reconstruction by biological mesh of open abdomen with fistula at the Department of General Surgery, Jinling Hospital, from January 2010 to August 2023. Their perioperative data were retrospectively analyzed, and clinical characteristics were compared. Univariate analysis and multivariate logistic were used to screen the independent factors of poor wound healing of abdominal wall reconstruction.

Results

The rate of poor wound healing after abdominal wall reconstruction was 23.26% (20/86) in OA patients with fistula. Body mass index (BMI), low BMI, abdominal wall defect zoning, neutrophil counts (NEUTs) on the first preoperative day, white blood cells (WBCs) on the first postoperative day, NEUTs on the first postoperative day, WBCs on the third postoperative day, NEUTs on the third postoperative day, procalcitonin (PCT) on the seventh postoperative day, WBCs on the seventh postoperative day, NEUTs on the seventh postoperative day, length of hospitalization, total hospitalization cost, and number of blood transfusions showed statistically significant differences between the group with well wound healing and the group with poor healing (P < 0.05). Multifactorial analysis of the results showed that NEUTs on the first postoperative day (OR: 0.675, 95%c.i.: 0.457–0.998, P: 0.049), NEUTs on the third postoperative day (OR: 0.645, 95%c.i.: 0.450–0.925, P: 0.017), and PCT on the seventh postoperative day (OR: 0.134, 95%c.i. 0.024–0.746, P: 0.022) were independent risk factors for poor wound healing.

Conclusions

NEUTs on the first postoperative day, NEUTs on the third postoperative day, and PCT on the seventh postoperative day are independent risk factors for poor wound healing. For patients undergoing abdominal wall defect reconstruction for open abdomen combined with fistula, clinical wound management should focus on preventive measures accordingly to ensure well wound healing.
17 Self-fixing scaffold membrane prevents postoperative adhesion by scavenging ROS production
Authors: Li Sicheng , Liu Ye , Huang Jinjian , Wu Xiuwen , Ren Jianan
Published: February 2025

Aim

This study focuses on the investigation of formation mechanism and prevention technologies for postoperative abdominal adhesions by combining bioengineering technology with the target therapy on abdominal adhesion mechanism.

Methods

A tissue engineering anti-adhesion membrane (SC-Xg) was prepared by cross-linking xanthan gum (Xg) with sodium citrate (SC) through dehydration condensation reaction for in vivo implantation to prevent postoperative abdominal adhesions. The physicochemical properties of SC-Xg were characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, rheometry, and swelling experiments to screen for suitable material formula ratios. Moreover, the biocompatibility of SC-Xg was assessed by co-culture with cells and fluorescence staining of live/dead cells. Through cellular experiments, we explored the possible mechanisms of sodium citrate inhibition of oxidative stress. Based on in vivo implantation of SC-XG membrane to mouse IBM, the safety and efficacy of SC-Xg in preventing postoperative abdominal adhesions were further confirmed using histopathological staining and ELISA assays.

Results

We developed a sodium citrate-based cross-linked xanthan gum tissue engineering membrane (SC-Xg) through a dehydration condensation reaction for the prevention of abdominal adhesion formation after abdominal surgery. The mechanical properties of xanthan gum were optimized by using different amount of sodium citrate for cross-linking. The SC-XG membrane showed the antioxidant properties, good self-fixation ability, biocompatibility, and biodegradability, and was easy to prepare for applications. In vitro and in vivo experiments confirmed the clinical translational potential of SC-Xg by shielding the surgical site, inhibiting oxidative stress and inflammatory response by activating Nrf2, and significantly reducing adhesion formation.

Conclusions

SC-Xg membrance inhibits oxidative stress in the injured peritoneum and prevents the formation of adhesions.
Topical steroid withdrawal response to Ciclosporin
Authors: McSwiney Niamh T , Bewley Anthony
Published: February 2025

Topical steroid withdrawal (TSW) is a condition gathering increasing traction amongst patients questioning the role and safety of topical corticosteroids (TCSs) in the treatment of atopic dermatitis and other inflammatory skin diseases. Also known as “topical steroid addiction” and “red skin syndrome”, the etiology of TSW is unclear but is generally recognised as the inappropriate frequent or prolonged use of moderate to high-potency TCSs, including reactions occurring both during and after their cessation. We describe three adult patients diagnosed with TSW who were successfully treated with 3-5mg/kg/day ciclosporin at a single centre between October 2023 to October 2024.
Bone morphogenetic protein 10 is increased in precapillary pulmonary hypertension patients
Authors: Llucià-Valldeperas Aida , van Wezenbeek Jessie , Groeneveldt Joanne A , Smal Rowan , Sánchez-Duffhues Gonzalo , Becher Clarissa , Kianzad Azar , Jansen Samara M A , Wessels Jeroen N , Handoko M Louis , Meijboom Lilian J , Marcus J Tim , Symersky Petr , Niessen Hans W M , Vonk-Noordegraaf Anton , Bogaard Harm Jan , Goumans Marie José , de Man Frances S
Published: February 2025

Aims

Precapillary pulmonary hypertension (precPH) results in increased right atrial (RA) stretch and pressure. The right atrium is the major source of bone morphogenetic protein 10 (BMP10) in adults, primarily produced by RA cardiomyocytes. The aim of this study was to investigate BMP10 expression in the right heart and systemic circulation and to identify potential triggers for increased BMP10 secretion associated with precPH.

Methods and results

We examined BMP10 mRNA and protein expressions in RA tissue. Circulating BMP10 plasma levels were determined using ELISA. BMP10 transcriptional activity was studied using a BRE-Luciferase assay. Correlation analyses were performed between circulating BMP10 and RA dilatation as well as right ventricular (RV) function. Finally, we determined the impact of pressure unloading on BMP10 activity in Chronic Thromboembolic Pulmonary Hypertension (CTEPH) patients before and after pulmonary endarterectomy (PEA).

BMP10 mRNA, protein and activity were significantly increased in the precPH right atrium. While circulating BMP10 protein levels were elevated, no significant changes were observed in BMP10 transcriptional activity between precPH and controls. Interestingly, RA dilatation, increased RA pressure, high NTproBNP levels and reduced RV ejection fraction were associated with high BMP10 activity. Finally, pressure unloading after PEA in a cohort of CTEPH patients, resulted in reduced BMP10 activity.

Conclusions

In conclusion, RA BMP10 expression and plasma levels are increased in precPH, likely triggered by excessive RA dilatation and pressure overload. Future studies are needed to determine whether increased BMP10 release is an adaptive mechanism or a potential therapeutic target.
A call to action on pregnancy-related lifestyle interventions to reduce cardiovascular risk in the offspring. A Scientific Statement of the European Association of Preventive Cardiology of the ESC
Authors: Moholdt Trine , Aye Christina , Bahls Martin , Crispi Fatima , Ghossein-Doha Chahinda , Goossens Eva , Hanssen Henner , Kulkarni Aparna , Lewandowski Adam J , Mannaerts Dominique , Nyrnes Siri Ann , Tiberi Monica , Van Craenenbroeck Emeline
Published: February 2025

Adverse pregnancy outcomes, such as gestational diabetes, hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, fetal growth restriction, and prematurity, can increase the risk of future cardiovascular disease (CVD) in the offspring. This document aims to raise recognition of the impact of maternal health on offspring cardiometabolic health and to highlight research gaps on how to mitigate this risk via pregnancy-related lifestyle interventions. Lifestyle interventions initiated before, during, or after pregnancy hold great promise to prevent and manage adverse maternal outcomes. Still, there is limited evidence for the effect of such interventions on CVD-related outcomes in the offspring. In this document, we “Call for action” concerning research investigating how pregnancy-related lifestyle interventions can reduce CVD risk in the offspring. There is a need to overcome barriers to recruit individuals who need such interventions the most, to better design strategies for increased adherence, and to include relevant measurements in children.
Frequent neighborhood participation reduces the probability of loneliness among older adults: A longitudinal study from Singapore
Authors: Lee June May-Ling , Visaria Abhijit , Chan Angelique
Published: February 2025

Objectives

Loneliness at older ages is a significant public health concern, and promoting participation in neighborhood events and activities may be a possible avenue for alleviating loneliness among older adults. However, there remains a scarcity of empirical research in this field. Addressing this knowledge gap, our study examined the association between frequency of neighborhood participation by older adults and their subsequent feelings of loneliness two years later, in a nationally representative longitudinal cohort of community-dwelling Singapore citizens and permanent residents aged 60 years and older.

Methods

We used two waves (2016-2017 and 2019) of data from the Transitions in Health, Employment, Social engagement, and Inter-Generational transfers in Singapore Study (THE SIGNS Study) (n=1,217). Frequent neighborhood participation was defined as participating in neighborhood committees, clubs, or events once a week or more, while loneliness was measured using the Three-item loneliness scale. To mitigate selection bias, we employed inverse probability-weighted regression adjustment to estimate the relationship between the frequency of neighborhood participation and loneliness.

Results

Our findings indicate that older adults who participated in neighborhood events frequently had a lower probability of loneliness at wave 2 compared to non-participants. Conversely, infrequent neighborhood participation at baseline did not demonstrate an association with loneliness at wave 2.

Discussion

Our findings suggest that a higher intensity of involvement in neighborhood activities may be necessary to achieve the benefits of participation. Our findings also highlight the potential of neighborhood-based interventions as a public health strategy to address loneliness in aging populations.
SpeSpeNet: an interactive and user-friendly tool to create and explore microbial correlation networks
Authors: van Eijnatten Abraham L , van Zon Luc , Manousou Eleni , Bikineeva Margarita , Wubs E R Jasper , van der Putten Wim H , Morriën Elly , Dutilh Bas E , Snoek L Basten
Published: February 2025

Correlation networks are commonly used to explore microbiome data. In these networks, nodes are taxa and edges represent correlations between their abundance patterns across samples. As clusters of correlating taxa (co-abundance clusters) often indicate a shared response to environmental drivers, network visualization contributes to system understanding. Currently, most tools for creating and visualizing co-abundance networks from microbiome data either require the researcher to have coding skills, or they are not user-friendly, with high time expenditure and limited customizability. Furthermore, existing tools lack focus on the association between environmental drivers and the structure of the microbiome, even though many edges in correlation networks can be understood through a shared association of two taxa with the environment. For these reasons we developed SpeSpeNet (Species-Species Network, https://tbb.bio.uu.nl/SpeSpeNet), a practical and user-friendly R-shiny tool to construct and visualize correlation networks from taxonomic abundance tables. The details of data preprocessing, network construction, and visualization are automated, require no programming ability for the web version, and are highly customizable, including associations with user-provided environmental data. Here, we present the details of SpeSpeNet and demonstrate its utility using three case studies.
Repurposing tafenoquine as a potent antifungal agent against Candida haemulonii sensu stricto
Authors: Pimentel Larissa Rodrigues , Lucini Fabíola , Silva Gabrieli Argueiro da , Simionatto Simone , Rossato Luana
Published: February 2025

Background

The rise in fungal infections caused by multidrug-resistant pathogens like Candida haemulonii sensu stricto presents a significant global health challenge. The common resistance to current treatments underscores the urgency to explore alternative therapeutic strategies, including drug repurposing.

Objectives

To assess the potential of repurposing tafenoquine, an antimalarial agent, for antifungal use against C. haemulonii sensu stricto.

Methods

The efficacy of tafenoquine was tested using in vitro assays for minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), minimum fungicidal concentration, biofilm inhibition, cell damage, cell membrane integrity, nucleotide leakage, sorbitol protection assay, and efflux pump inhibition. The compound’s cytotoxicity was assessed through a haemolysis assay, and in vivo safety and efficacy were tested using Tenebrio molitor larvae.

Results

Tafenoquine exhibited potent fungicidal activity against C. haemulonii sensu stricto with an MIC of 4 mg/L and significantly inhibited biofilm formation by 60.63%. Tafenoquine also impaired mitochondrial functionality, leading to compromised cellular respiration. Despite these effects, tafenoquine did not cause significant protein leakage, indicating a distinct mechanism from membrane-targeting agents. In vivo study confirmed tafenoquine's non-toxic profile with no observed haemolysis or acute toxicity in the T. molitor model. During antifungal treatment with tafenoquine, a survival rate of approximately 60% was observed after 3 days.

Conclusions

The findings of this study highlight tafenoquine's potential as a promising candidate for antifungal drug repurposing, especially against C. haemulonii sensu stricto. Its effectiveness in inhibiting fungal growth and biofilm formation underscores its viability for further clinical development as a novel antifungal therapy.
RTF1 mediates epigenetic control of Th17 cell differentiation via H2B monoubiquitination
Authors: Galan Carolina , Lu Guangqing , Gill Richard , Li Dun , Liu Yifang , Huh Jun R , Hang Saiyu
Published: February 2025

A gene encoding the transcription factor RTF1 has been associated with an increased risk of ulcerative colitis (UC). In this study, we investigated its function in modulating T cells expressing interleukin-17A (Th17 cells), a cardinal cell type promoting intestinal inflammation. Our results indicate that Rtf1 deficiency disrupts the differentiation of Th17 cells, while leaving regulatory T cells (Treg) unaffected. Mechanistically, RTF1 facilitates histone H2B monoubiquitination (H2Bub1), which requires its histone modification domain (HMD), for supporting Th17 cell function. Impaired Th17 differentiation was also observed in cells lacking the H2Bub1 E3 ligase subunit RNF40, an enzyme known to physically interact with RTF1. Thus, our study underscores the essential role of RTF1 in H2Bub1-mediated epigenetic regulation of Th17 cell differentiation. Understanding this process will likely provide valuable insights into addressing Th17-associated inflammatory disorders. (Images were created with BioRender).
Gaussian Inference in Predictive Regressions for Stock Returns
Authors: Demetrescu Matei , Hillmann Benjamin
Published: February 2025

Predictive regressions are an important tool in empirical finance. Under persistent predictors and so-called predictive regression endogeneity, OLS-based estimators and tests exhibit nonnormal limiting distributions. M estimators in such predictive regressions inherit these traits. The limiting distributions of different M estimators and M estimation-based tests of predictability depend on the same non-standard component. We exploit this to eliminate the nonstandard component and obtain standard normal test statistics of no predictability by building suitable linear combinations of two different M-based t ratios. This further enables us to set up a fixed-regressors bootstrap procedure to avoid the multiple-testing problem when applying the new test in rolling subsamples. Examining the predictability of U.S. stock returns, we find evidence for stock return predictability in volatile business cycle periods, such as World War II, Oil Crisis and Great Recession.
Revisiting surrogacy of pathological complete response for long-term survival in triple negative breast cancer
Authors: Yoshino Toru , Zhang Zao , Sato Ryota , Lipkowitz Stanley , Fujii Takeo
Published: February 2025

Background

Pathological complete response (pCR) has been used as a primary endpoint in neoadjuvant trials in early-stage triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) accepted pCR as a surrogate endpoint for long-term survival outcomes in high-risk early-stage BC for new drug approval. However, there is insufficient trial-level data to robustly support pCR as a surrogate for long-term survival in TNBC.

Methods

A systematic literature review was performed to identify randomized clinical trials of neoadjuvant systemic therapy for patients with clinical stage I-III TNBC. Data of odds ratios (ORs) for pCR, hazard ratios (HRs) for event-free survival (EFS) and overall survival (OS) were extracted. Disease-free survival was used as an alternative when EFS data were unavailable. A linear regression model on a logarithmic scale, coefficient of difference, and 95% confidential interval (CI) were calculated to assess the trial-level association between OR for pCR and HR for OS and EFS.

Results

Eight trials with a total of 2,342 patients were included. Three trials tested immune checkpoint inhibitors. Coefficient of difference (R2) was 0.2 for HR of EFS (95% CI, 0.17 to 0.22, P = .27), and R2 for HR of OS was 0.19 (95% CI, 0.17 to 0.22, P = .33).

Conclusion

There is no strong evidence to support using pCR as a surrogate marker for EFS or OS in early-stage TNBC at the trial level. Because of the necessity of minimizing drug approval delay with reliable long-term outcome, further studies of surrogate markers in early-stage TNBC are warranted.
Best practices and pragmatic approaches for patient-reported outcomes and quality of life measures in cancer clinical trials
Authors: Bandos Hanna , Torres-Saavedra Pedro A , Culakova Eva , Gunn Heather J , Lee Minji K , Duan Fenghai , Cecchini Reena S , Unger Joseph M , Dueck Amylou C , Steingrimsson Jon A
Published: February 2025

Patient-reported outcomes (PROs) are often collected in cancer clinical trials. Data obtained from trials with PROs are essential in evaluating participant experiences relating to symptoms, financial toxicity, or health-related quality of life. Although most features of clinical trial design, implementation, and analyses apply to trials with PROs, several considerations are unique. In this paper, we focus on specific issues such as selection of the tool, timing and frequency of assessments, and data collection methods. We discuss how the estimand framework can be used in connection with PROs, properties of common estimation methods, and handling of missing outcomes. With a plethora of literature available, we aim to summarize best practices and pragmatic approaches to the design and analysis of the studies incorporating PROs.
Autologous Glueless Simple Limbal Epithelial Transplantation for Unilateral Stem Cell Deficiency Using Femtosecond Laser–Assisted Limbal Stem Cell Harvesting: The Report of the First 3 Clinical Cases
Authors: Malyugin Boris , Kalinnikova Svetlana , Nefedova Olga , Gerasimov Maksim , Müller Fabian , Bernau Werner
Published: February 2025

Purpose:

To evaluate the first clinical results of corneal surface reconstruction with the help of a femtosecond laser (FSL)—full FSL-assisted autologous glueless simple limbal epithelial transplantation (Full FSL G-SLET) for unilateral limbal stem cell deficiency.

Methods:

After chemical eye burns, 3 patients underwent Full FSL G-SLET procedures, including 2 critical laser-assisted steps: harvesting of the 8 autologous limbal micrografts from the healthy eyes and placing them into laser-cut nonpenetrating corneal tunnels performed on the affected eye.

Results:

The donor eyes recovered very quickly, and 3 to 4 weeks after surgery, a small scar in the limbal area formed with no adverse effects on visual acuity. Three patients had various rates of corneal reepithelization of the recipient eyes: 1 month, 1.5 months, and 4 months postoperatively. Complete corneal epithelialization was achieved in all cases. The epithelial layer was stable for 12 months postoperatively, as confirmed by corneal staining with low-molecular-weight fluorescein and anterior segment optical coherence tomography. Visual acuity improvement was observed in all 3 patients.

Conclusions:

This is the first report of successful clinical use of FSL for autologous G-SLET surgical procedures when the laser was used not only to create corneal tunnels for autologous limbal micrograft fixation but also for their in vivo harvesting and fragmentation.
Experiences of Parents Who Have Children With Disabilities
Authors: Acar Serra , Er Dudu Melek , Volk Katherine T. , Spence Christine M.
Published: February 2025

This study aimed to understand the experiences of parents who have young children with disabilities in Türkiye during COVID-19. We conducted a qualitative analysis of semistructured virtual interviews with eight parents. We used a collective within-case and across-case approach to analyze and interpret the interviews. Parents noted difficulties with the EI/ECSE programs and the need for individualized and functional services for their children. Furthermore, parents reported the need for high-quality, inclusive early childhood programs and the importance of well-trained educators. Parents also expressed interest in learning more about how to support their child’s development and learning. Results may inform research, policy, and practice initiatives for children with disabilities and their families. The findings highlight the importance of including parent voices in the continued capacity-building efforts of EI/ECSE systems.
The VASCERN-VASCA Working Group Diagnostic and Management Pathways for Capillary Malformations
Authors: Baselga Eulalia , Andersen Rune , Barea Maria , Bejarano Serrano Miguel , Berger Sigurd , Bisdorff-Bresson Annouk , Boccara Olivia , Bom-Sucesso Maria , Boon Laurence M. , Borgards Petra , Diociaiuti Andrea , Dompmartin Anne , Dvorakova Veronika , El Hachem May , Frisk Sofia , Gasparella Paolo , Ghaffarpour Nader , Haxhija Emir , Hjuler Thomas , Holm Annegret , Kaltoft Mikkel , Kapp Friedrich G. , Kyrklund Kristiina , Irvine Alan D. , Madureira Miguel , Palionis Darius , Rößler Jochen , Salminen Päivi , Tolonen Jukka , Vaisnyte Birute , Van Den Bosch Caroline , van der Vleuten Carine , Schultze Kool Leo , Vikkula Miikka
Published: February 2025

Objective:

VASCERN (https://vascern.eu/) is the European Reference Network for Rare Multisystemic Vascular Diseases. VASCERN-VASCA is the working group within VASCERN that focuses on the study of vascular anomalies. One of the objectives of this group is to establish patient pathways to guide physicians toward efficient diagnostic and management measures. The patient pathway presented here is focused on capillary malformations (CMs).

Methods:

The Nominal Group Technique, a structured variation of small group discussion was used. Two facilitators were identified: one to propose initial discussion points and draw the pathway and another to chair the discussion. A dermatologist (E. Baselga) was chosen as the first facilitator due to her specific clinical and research expertise. The draft was subsequently discussed within VASCERN-VASCA monthly virtual meetings and biannual face-to-face meetings.

Results:

The pathway starts from the clinical recognition of a vascular red stain, describing clinical characteristics and location. Depending on the clinical features, a subsequent workup for associated manifestations or complications is suggested. These steps should enable the establishment of 6 subtypes of CMs: (1) nevus simplex; (2) isolated CM, syndromic or nonsyndromic; (3) CM of microcephaly CM syndrome; (4) CM of CM–arteriovenous malformation syndromes; (5) “pseudo” CM of arteriovenous malformation; (6) cutis marmorata telangiectatica congenita. Management according to the recognized phenotype is detailed in subsequent pages of the pathway. A color code is used to differentiate (1) clinical evaluations, (2) investigations, (3) associated genes, and (4) treatments. Actions relevant to all types are marked in separate boxes, for example, when to perform specific imaging.

Conclusion:

The collaborative efforts of VASCERN-VASCA, a European network of the 14 Expert Centers for Vascular Anomalies, have led to a consensus pathway for CMs. This pathway may help clinicians to guide in the diagnosis and management of CMs, as well as to emphasize the crucial role of multidisciplinary expert centers in the management of these patients. This pathway is available on the VASCERN website (http://vascern.eu/).
Study on influencing factors of postoperative complications in elderly patients with lumbar spinal stenosis
Authors: Lin Wei , Liu Jinzhu , Zhan Zirui
Published: February 2025

To analyze the influencing factors of postoperative complications in elderly patients with lumbar spinal stenosis, in order to provide reference for clinical prevention in advance. A total of 280 elderly patients with lumbar spinal stenosis were selected from December 2022 to 2023. The clinical data and postoperative complications were collected from the electronic medical records of the hospital. The clinical characteristics were analyzed, and the risk factors related to surgical complications were analyzed by univariate analysis and multivariate logistic regression model. A total of 46 patients had different degrees of postoperative complications, the incidence of complications was 16.43%. The results of multivariate logistic regression analysis showed: surgical approach (odds ratio [OR]: 1.184, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.046–1.340, P = .007), surgical segments (3 segments or more) (OR: 7.049, 95% CI: 1.592–31.205, P = .010), operation duration (OR: 2.507, 95% CI: 1.078–5.832, P = .033), and age (OR: 2.321, 95% CI: 1.589–3.390, P < .001) were independent risk factors for postoperative complications. In conclusion, surgical approach, surgical segments, operation duration, and age are independent risk factors for postoperative complications in elderly patients with lumbar spinal stenosis. Clinical intervention of these risk factors should be carried out as early as possible to reduce the occurrence of postoperative complications.
Effects of foot intrinsic muscle dynamic stretching on balance, gait parameters, and dynamic gait index in patients with chronic stroke: A randomized controlled study (CONSORT)
Authors: Kwag Younghwan , Park Donghwan
Published: February 2025

Background:

Foot intrinsic muscle dynamic stretching intervention can correct balance ability and induce a change in spatiotemporal parameters gait ability. Our objective was to compare the effects of a 4-week program of foot intrinsic muscle dynamic stretching with those of lunge exercise on static balance, dynamic balance, gait parameters (velocity, cadence, step length, and stride length), and the dynamic gait index (DGI) in chronic stroke patients.

Methods:

The participants were randomized to either the foot intrinsic muscle dynamic stretching (n = 10) or standard lunge exercise (n = 10) groups. Both groups performed 3 sets of lunge exercises 5 times per week for 4 weeks. Each set comprised 10 repetitions. Static and dynamic balance, gait parameters, and the DGI were measured after 4 weeks of training.

Results:

After 4 weeks of training, the foot intrinsic muscle dynamic stretching group showed significant improvement in all outcome measures compared with the baseline (P < .05). Furthermore, timed up and go, velocity, step length, stride length, and DGI showed greater improvement in the foot intrinsic muscle dynamic stretching group than in the standard lunge exercise group (P < .05).

Conclusions:

This study demonstrated that foot intrinsic muscle dynamic stretching training improved dynamic balance, velocity, step lengths, stride length, and DGI in patients with chronic stroke.
Retrospective case-control analysis of the infectious complications of retained broken needles in people who inject drugs
Authors: Sandberg Alex , Mammen Shalom , Udongwo Angela , Yu Daohai , Lu Xiaoning , Graham Ryan , Cohen Gary , Maresky Hillel
Published: February 2025

Retained broken needles (RBNs) in patients is a potentially underreported complication of intravenous drug use (IVDU) in people who inject drugs. Identification of RBNs poses a challenge for radiologists and clinicians due to subtle appearance on imaging and the complexities of patient presentations. A single-center case-control study was performed between January 1, 2021, and December 31, 2021. The cases included all patients with a history of IVDU who presented to the emergency department (ED) with RBNs. Data collected on the study population included RBN location and size, complications, and imaging modality. A control group of 2:1 matched on age, gender, and race/ethnicity with the cases was generated from patients with a history of IVDU from the same time period who had no RBNs. A total of 3920 total patients presented to ED with a history of IVDU and 70 patients were found to have RBN (1.8%). RBNs were most observed in the foot/ankle (32.9%) forearm (18.6%), and neck (17.1%). RBNs were found to be incidental in 82.9% (58 out of 70) of patients. Radiography located needle fragments (55.7%) slightly more often than CT (44.3%). Overall, among all the cases and controls combined, 33.8% had positive blood cultures. In the group of patients with a RBN, 47.1% presented with positive bacterial blood cultures during the hospital admission, whereas the group without an RBN showed 27.1% (P = .004). The RBN group showed significantly higher rates of abscess (72.9% vs 48.6%), cellulitis (70.0% vs 46.4%), and osteomyelitis (37.1% vs 13.6%) than the non-RBN group (all P ≤ .001). This study suggests that RBNs are likely underreported and patients with RBNs are at an increased risk of infectious complications. Increasing the awareness and refining our understanding of RBNs is crucial to mitigating these complications.
A review on effect and treatment of perinatal Ureaplasma urealyticum colonization/infection in neonates
Authors: Zhang Mengmeng , Wang Yingjie , Wang Yuqian , Liu Junli , Wang Yanhong , Zhang Li
Published: February 2025

Ureaplasma urealyticum (UU) is the most frequently detected in the maternal genitalia, is mainly transmitted through vertical transmission at birth to neonates, with its complex etiology and adverse effects on neonatal health. While its etiologic significance in many aspects of neonatal diseases remains unknown, recent evidence indicates that UU is a cause of low birth weight, bronchopulmonary dysplasia, neonatal meningitis, retinopathy of prematurity, necrotizing enterocolitis, and abnormal blood cell counts, and is closely related to long-term prognosis in newborns. However, the most critical need is additional information concerning indications for treatment as well as the efficacy. This article reviews recent research progress in the effect and treatment of perinatal UU colonization/infection in neonates in order to provide evidence for the treatment of UU colonization/infection in neonates.
Transarterial chemoembolization in hepatocellular carcinoma: exploring its role in vascular invasion and extrahepatic metastasis: A systematic review
Authors: Usman Younas Muhammad , Saeed Abdullah , Ramzan Muhammad , Junaid Tahir Muhammad , Abbasher Hussien Mohamed Ahmed Khabab , Ahmed Ali
Published: February 2025

Background and aims:

Transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) is a significant intervention in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) management, but controversies persist regarding its application in advanced cases with vascular invasion or extrahepatic metastasis. This systematic review aims to explore TACE’s efficacy and safety in these cases.

Methods:

A literature search was conducted on TACE in HCC patients with vascular invasion or extrahepatic metastasis. The study compared TACE with surgical resection/chemotherapeutic drugs or with no group as well. Safety was assessed for adverse outcomes and efficacy, including overall survival, mean survival, and progression-free survival (PFS). Data extraction included study characteristics, patient demographics, intervention details, outcomes, and adverse events.

Results:

A study of 28 studies involving 3740 patients found that TACE showed diverse safety and efficacy outcomes. Safety evaluations focused on liver function tests, while patient-reported symptoms included fever, pain, vomiting, and gastrointestinal issues. Overall survival was under 10 months in 9 studies, with PFS lower in the TACE group compared to conservative treatments. Survival rates ranged from 93.4% at 3 months to 13% at 24 months across studies. The study identified potential subsets where TACE exhibited efficacy, especially in cases with favorable liver function or specific tumor classifications.

Conclusion:

Our findings suggest a potential role for TACE in certain subsets of advanced HCC patients. Tailored treatment algorithms, informed by rigorous clinical trials and considering various prognostic factors, hold the potential to enhance the management and outcomes for this complex patient population.
Developing and validating of an English questionnaire to assess knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding Marburg virus disease (EKAP-MVD): A cross-sectional study
Authors: Hussein Mohamed Fakhry , Abdu Ghazy , Gebreal Assem , Elnagar Fatma , El Demerdash Basma E. , Abonazel Mohamed R. , Shati Ayed A. , Al-Qahtani Saleh M. , Ghazy Ramy Mohamed
Published: February 2025

Knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of the general population toward Marburg Virus Disease (MVD) have a crucial impact on control and prevention strategies, particularly during outbreaks. The current study aimed to develop, culturally adapt, and validate a questionnaire for assessing KAP toward MVD (EKAP-MVD). A cross-sectional study using face-to-face interview and an anonymous online survey was conducted from March 13 to April 28, 2023 in 8 Sub-Saharan African countries (Ethiopia, Ghana, Kenya, Lesotho, Nigeria, Senegal, South Africa, and Tanzania). Internal consistency was assessed using Cronbach’s alpha, split-half reliability, and Spearman-Brown coefficient. We assessed EKAP-MVD face and content validity. Construct validity was determined through convergent and discriminant validity, as well as exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses. A total of 510 participants were included: 51.6% were females, 46.5% were aged 18 to 25 years, 65.5% were residents in urban areas, 52.9% did not have university education, 58.6% were single, 34.7% were students, and 15.7% worked in the medical field. The Cronbach’s alpha of the questionnaire was 0.877. All questions showed a statistically significant correlation with their latent factors (P < .05), indicating that the questionnaire had good convergent validity. The correlations between domains were either weak positive or negative, indicating discriminate validity. The KMO measure of sampling adequacy for factor analysis was 0.932 and Bartlett’s test of sphericity was significant (P < .0001). The elbow point of the scree plot reveals that the number of factors that were most important and should be kept for further analysis was 3. Confirmatory factor analysis model fit was as follows: normed Chi-square (χ2) = 1.301, the root mean square error of a pproximation (RMSEA) = 0.038, goodness-of-fit index and comparative fit index > 0.9, and root mean square residual (RMR) < 0.08. In conclusion, the developed questionnaire had good psychometric properties and can be used to assess KAP about MVD.
Are more exercise components in combined cognitive and physical training better for older adults?: A systematic review and network meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Han Conglin , Zhang Dan , Sun Weishuang , Liu Jiawei , Sun Ruifeng , Gong Weijun
Published: February 2025

Background:

Age-related cognitive problems are becoming increasingly prevalent in older adults; thus, maintaining normal cognitive abilities and delaying cognitive decline are essential for promoting healthy aging.

Methods:

This systematic review and network meta-analysis examined the effects of combining cognitive and physical training by including various exercise components to improve memory and executive function in older adults. The Cochrane Risk Assessment Tool was used to assess the risk of bias in the included literature. Pairwise meta-analysis was conducted using RevMan 5.3, while network meta-analysis was performed with Stata 15.1, and interventions were ranked based on the results.

Results:

A total of 8180 articles were screened, and 16 randomized controlled trials were included. Pairwise meta-analysis showed that cognitive-physical interventions with 2 (SMD = 0.26, 95% CI: 0.07–0.44, P = .007) and 3 or more exercise components (SMD = 0.43, 95% CI: 0.13–0.73, P = .004) significantly improved memory compared to controls. For executive function, both interventions with 2 (SMD = 0.40, 95% CI: 0.15–0.65, P = .002) and 3 or more exercise components (SMD = 0.55, 95% CI: 0.16–0.93, P = .005) outperformed the control group. Network meta-analysis confirmed that interventions with 2 (SMD = 0.24, 95% CI: 0.06–0.42) and 3 or more components (SMD = 0.43, 95% CI: 0.13–0.73) improved memory, while a single exercise component was most effective for executive function (SMD = 1.27, 95% CI: 0.05–2.49). Overall, we demonstrated that combined cognitive-physical intervention training with multiple exercise components significantly improved memory and executive function compared to controls. The effects of combined training with 3 or more exercise components were likely the most effective in improving memory.

Conclusion:

Cognitive-physical combined interventions are increasingly applied in clinical research on age-related cognitive decline. Our meta-analysis indicates that interventions incorporating multiple exercise components are more effective than those with a single exercise component. These findings provide a basis for future cognitive and physical interventions for older adults and can inform the design of effective intervention programs.
Research progress on influencing factors and intervention methods of protein-energy wasting in maintenance hemodialysis patients: A literature review
Authors: Zhang Jiquan , Xu Fan , Qing Wei , Zhuang Peimin , Xu Xingying
Published: February 2025

Protein-energy wasting (PEW) has high incidence in hemodialysis patients and refers to a state of decreased protein and energy substance. With the extensive development of hemodialysis in patients with end-stage kidney disease, most patients with maintenance hemodialysis have the problem of PEW, which is one of the common complications of maintenance hemodialysis patients, resulting in decreased quality of life and increased mortality. This article searches and analyzes the literature in recent years to summarize the current influencing factors and common interventions of PEW in maintenance hemodialysis patients, which will provide reference for subsequent nutritional management of maintenance hemodialysis patients.