bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sequence of decline on the NIH-toolbox cognitive battery in a predominantly Latino sample with autosomal dominant Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Petkus Andrew J , Sonti Anup N , Montoya Lucy , Rowe Bryan , Sagare Abhay , Ringman John M
Published: January 2025

Background

Understanding the sequential progression of cognitive decline in autosomal dominant Alzheimer's disease (ADAD) in the Latino population is crucial for enhancing early identification for targeted interventions. Given the tablet-based administration and increasing frequency of use in epidemiological research, validating this progression within the NIH Toolbox cognitive battery (NIHTB-CB) is important.

Objective

The first aim was to utilize an innovative Event-Based Modeling (EBM) analytic approach to estimate the sequence of cognitive declines in persons at risk for ADAD enriched for being of Latino origin. The second aim was to examine associations between EBM-derived estimates of cognitive disease severity and independent cognitive outcomes within carriers and noncarriers.

Methods

This cross-sectional observational study (N = 30) included 16 ADAD mutation carriers and 14 noncarriers who completed the NIHTB-CB in their primary language (n = 8 Spanish; n = 22 English). An EBM was constructed to compare ADAD mutation carriers and noncarriers on NIHTB-CB performance. We utilized linear regression to examine the associations between the EBM-derived cognitive-decline disease stage and independent outcomes (e.g., performance on the Cognitive Abilities Screening Instrument (CASI) and estimated years to dementia diagnosis).

Results

The EBM estimated that tests assessing episodic memory were the first to become abnormal in the sequence of ADAD-related cognitive decline. Each higher estimated cognitive-decline disease stage was associated with approximately a three-point decline in the CASI and two years closer to dementia diagnosis.

Conclusions

Findings support the EBM applied to the tablet-based NIHTB-CB to estimate the likely progression of cognitive decline in Latinos with ADAD.
Minimum income schemes for the elderly: A comparative analysis of benefit conditions that may affect their right to live in dignity
Authors: Devetzi Stamatia , Pennings Frans
Published: January 2025

The Union recognises and respects the right to lead a life in dignity (Article 25 Charter of Fundamental rights). This right, it is argued, not only requires an adequate income protection, but also addresses the conditions under which this is provided. In view of the conditions that are often linked to minimum income schemes for the elderly—waiting periods, entitlement to other pensions, calculation rules, means tests, restrictions on the possibilities to move abroad—we studied the minimum income schemes for the elderly of nine EU Member States in order to examine how they work out for persons who have been insured in more than one Member State and those who move to another country after retirement. It appears that minimum income protection sometimes has to be claimed from more than one scheme, that the conditions and calculation rules are extremely complicated, and that frequently the relationship with coordination rules for social security is unclear or even ignored. It is also hard to understand the need for the distinction between the schemes. It is argued, on the basis of these findings, that minimum income schemes for the elderly need particular attention from EU institutions and Member States, because of their present lack of transparency, the problematic coordination of national schemes, the impact on the possibilities of free movement and the (probable) problems with take-up. The article thus wants to contribute to the further development of the concept of living in dignity and provides materials for elaborating the Council recommendations on minimum income and on access to social protection.
A study on misfire control using crank angular velocity combustion feedback considering in-cylinder gas properties
Authors: Hasegawa Ryo , Aoyama Yukitoshi , Shirai Hayato
Published: January 2025

Internal combustion engines have been strongly required to improve thermal efficiency and utilize a variety of fuels derived from renewable energy sources to achieve carbon neutrality. In terms of engine development, the stable control of ignition and combustion is the primary challenge in adapting to diverse fuels for the recently emphasized premixed compression ignition combustion and super lean burn. In this study, a misfire index was used as a detector for a premixed type of diesel combustion engine. Combustion feedback control was performed to control the target value of EGR based on the difference between the misfire index and its target value. To apply crank angle velocity to feedback control, this study implemented corrections and limitations to the misfire index based on in-cylinder gas properties. This was made possible because, during misfire events, the in-cylinder pressure at top dead center (TDC) is not influenced by combustion pressure. Additionally, this research enabled model validation of the phenomena for the first time. A novel structure was also established to learn the EGR correction amount from the deviation of the misfire index, marking the first empirical demonstration of its effectiveness. This research not only presents control examples for misfire countermeasures, which are crucial for the development of engines capable of utilizing diverse fuels but also contributed to mass production and practical application.
Visually guided extraction of prevalent topics
Authors: Witschard Daniel , Jusufi Ilir , Kucher Kostiantyn , Kerren Andreas
Published: January 2025

The sensemaking process of large sets of text documents is highly challenging for tasks such as obtaining a comprehensive overview or keeping up with the most important trends and topics. Even though several established methods for condensation and summarization of large text corpora exist, many of them lack the ability to account for difference in prevalence between identified topics, which in turn impedes quantitative analysis. In this paper, we therefore propose a novel prevalence-aware method for topic extraction, and show how it can be used to obtain important insights from two text corpora with very different content. We also implemented a prototype visual analytics tool which guides the user in the search for relevant insights and promotes trust in the yielded results. We have verified our application by a user study, as well as by a validation run on a data set with previously known topic structure. The results clearly show that our approach is suitable for text mining, that it can be used by non-experts, and that it offers features which makes it an interesting candidate for use in several different analysis scenarios.
Advancing architecture: Form-finding of architectural forms using comprehensive multi-objective optimization
Authors: Ramadan Lina A , El Mokadem Ashraf , Badawy Nancy
Published: January 2025

Today’s architecture increasingly features complex, free-form buildings, facilitated by parametric design. Yet, these forms face significant challenges. In the current global energy crisis, early-stage optimization of free-forms for energy performance is essential. Also, digital fabrication, often required for such complex geometries, should be integrated into their form-finding. Furthermore, the distinct aesthetics of free-forms demand attention during form-finding. However, there is a lack in integrating these objectives in form-finding of free-forms. This paper presents and applies a comprehensive multi-objective optimization framework for the form-finding of a free-form building. Case study results show improvement in minimizing façade surface area, minimizing incident solar radiation in summer, and maximizing it in winter by 2.25%, 1.7%, and 1.4% respectively, compared to baseline form. Additionally, all façade panels are flat, and aesthetics are considered. These findings underscore the framework’s potential to generate energy-efficient, rationalized, and aesthetically appealing parametric forms that meet the demands of contemporary architecture.
Incorporating distress tolerance into exposure-based cognitive behavioral therapy for social anxiety disorder: A case study
Authors: Basting Evan J. , Stuart Gregory L.
Published: January 2025

Social anxiety disorder (SAD) is common and can significantly undermine an individual’s ability to participate effectively in social, occupational, and professional activities. Several cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) strategies are implemented to treat SAD, including exposure therapy, social skills training, cognitive restructuring, and relaxation training. However, many people with SAD engage in substantial avoidance, which may be associated with difficulties in distress tolerance. This case study examined the utility of implementing distress tolerance skills into a manualized 13-session exposure-based CBT protocol for SAD with a female young adult. Distress tolerance skills were used to specifically target avoidance associated with strong physiological symptoms. Data suggested a significant reduction in SAD symptoms over the course of treatment, and these reductions persisted even amid other life stress that occurred toward the end of treatment. Additionally, follow-up data indicated that the client’s low level of avoidance was sustained after treatment, which might underscore the potential utility of improving distress tolerance in SAD treatment to reduce avoidance and maintain treatment gains. This case study provides evidence for incorporating distress tolerance skill training into manualized, exposure-based CBT for SAD.
Washingtonia robusta H. Wendl Leaf Metabolites Potentiate the Radiosensitivity of Hepatocellular Carcinoma Through Ki67 and PARP Inhibition
Authors: Selim Nabil M. , El-Hawary Seham S. , El Zalabani Soheir M. , Shamma Rehab Nabil , Mahdy Nariman El Sayed , Sherif Noheir H. , Youssif Khayrya A. , Ramadan Abdelmohsen Usama , Mekkawy Mai H. , Fahmy Hanan A.
Published: January 2025

Objectives:

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) represents the third-most prevalent cancer in humans worldwide. The current study’s objective is to search for the potentiality of Washingtonia robusta H. Wendl ( W. robusta) leaf extract in a nanoemulsion (NE) form in enhancing radiotherapy against HCC induced in rats using diethylnitrosamine (DEN).

Material and methods:

The metabolic composition of the bioactive extract of W. robusta leaves was investigated by LC-MS. Oral epithelial (OEC) and liver carcinoma (HepG2) cell lines were used to examine the safety and anticancer activity of the NE, respectively. In the in vivo study, HCC was induced in male albino rats through administration of DEN in drinking water for 8 weeks, then treatment with NE (100 mg/kg) until the experiment’s ending. Rats were irradiated by a fractionated dose of 2Gy*4.

Results:

NE exerted remarkable cytotoxicity in comparison to the parent extract and the standard doxorubicin on the HepG2 cell line. Besides, the NE administration and/or γ-irradiation (IRR) significantly reduced the elevated alanine aminotransferase (ALT), total proteins, and albumin levels in HCC-induced rats. Likewise, the tumor markers alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) and gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) levels were considerably reduced in HCC rats. In addition, NE treatment before IRR significantly decreased the expression of the poly ADP ribose polymerase-1 (PARP1) enzyme and Ki67. Furthermore, the histological investigations strongly confirmed the combined effect of NE and IRR in fighting DEN-induced HCC.

Conclusion:

NE of W. robusta extract may possess a radiosensitizing novel impact and provide a new strategy to combat HCC in clinical practices.
Efficacy and Safety of Different Acupuncture Treatments for Cancer-Related Pain: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-Analysis
Authors: Xie Tianle , Liu Can , Wu Yudi , Li Xiuxiu , Yang Qianyun , Tan Jing
Published: January 2025

Background:

Cancer pain is a prevalent and persistent issue, and while there have been some observations of the possible benefits of acupuncture in managing cancer pain, there is still debate regarding its safety and effectiveness. This study aims to compare the efficacy and safety of different acupuncture modalities in the treatment of cancer pain through a network meta-analysis.

Methods:

Between the time each database was created and June 3, 2024, eight databases were queried: PubMed, Cochrane, Embase, Web of Science, CNKI, Wanfang, VIP, and China Biomedicine. Randomized controlled trials investigating the use of various acupuncture and moxibustion techniques in the treatment of cancer pain were identified. Publication bias and quality of randomized controlled trials were assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool and the Jadad scale, and network meta-analyses were performed using Stata 15 and R 4.3.2.

Results:

We incorporated 111 studies encompassing 9549 individuals diagnosed with cancer, examining 29 distinct therapies. Network meta-analysis showed that, compared to Usual Medicine, Acupuncture + Usual Medicine + Traditional Chinese medicine (MD = −1.83, 95% CI: −2.86 to −0.80) could reduce NRS scores, Acupuncture + Traditional Chinese medicine (OR = 30.86, 95% CI: 3.75-254.20) could improve cancer pain relief, Moxibustion + Usual Medicine (MD = 2.12, 95% CI: 0.43-3.80) could effectively improve KPS score, Acupuncture + Application of Chinese medicine (OR = 0.16, 95% CI: 0.04-0.66) is associated with a lower incidence of constipation, Electro-Acupuncture + Usual Medicine (OR = 0.11, 95% CI: 0.03-0.45) shows a lower incidence of nausea and vomiting, Acupuncture + Moxibustion + Usual Medicine (OR = 0.29, 95% CI: 0.09-0.90) is associated with a lower incidence of dizziness.

Conclusion:

Acupuncture + Traditional Chinese medicine is the best intervention for different acupuncture methods in the treatment of cancer pain, and Moxibustion + Usual Medicine is the best intervention to improve the quality of life of patients.
Algorithm Registers: A Box-Ticking Exercise or Meaningful Tool for Transparency?
Authors: Nieuwenhuizen Esther
Published: January 2025

Governments increasingly implement algorithm registers—openly accessible overviews of algorithms used in decision-making—to promote transparency and accountability. However, the contribution of these registers is questioned: some scholars claim that governments only disclose politically non-sensitive algorithms and provide information with limited usefulness for accountability purposes. In contrast, a more optimistic view is also put forward: registers help organizations to be transparent to the public, which increases public trust in algorithm use. In response to this academic debate, this paper aims to provide a theoretical understanding and an empirical mapping of the different factors that shape algorithm registers and their implications. I conducted in-depth interviews with 27 respondents, both developers (public organizations) and key users (oversight authorities and societal watchdogs) of algorithm registers in the Netherlands, and I analyzed 33 policy documents. The findings nuance the current criticisms. While I find that public organizations indeed selectively disclose information and registers are currently not found useful by societal watchdogs and oversight authorities, there are also dynamics that could contribute to more responsible use of algorithms by public organizations, such as a potential disciplining effect of registers. This study highlights the importance of going beyond the rhetoric on algorithm registers, by establishing a deep understanding of the indirect and unexpected dynamics they create. The paper concludes that algorithm registers are currently not a meaningful tool for transparency, but a meaningful box-ticking exercise for public organizations.
“An epidemic of violence”: Examining U.S. news media depictions of anti-trans fatal violence in 2022
Authors: Walsh Hannah J
Published: January 2025

Anti-trans fatal violence refers to the hate-motivated murder of transgender and gender-diverse individuals. This study examines news media coverage surrounding 36 victims of anti-trans fatal violence in the United States in 2022. A qualitative content analysis of news articles ( n = 75) reveals that journalists often frame anti-trans fatal violence as a systemic issue while highlighting the perspectives of queer organizations/advocates when discussing the murder of transgender individuals.
Outcomes of ophthalmic nurse conducted phone call follow-up of cataract surgery patients at an Australian Public Hospital
Authors: Ahmed Nauman Naveed , Wilson Tracey , White Andrew
Published: January 2025

Background:

COVID-related clinic shutdowns mandated the use of a day 1 telephone follow-up the day after routine cataract surgery rather than clinic attendance. We investigated to see if this is a safe alternative to standard care.

Methods:

Ninety-nine patients who underwent a routine cataract extraction between 22 April 2020 and 19 August 2020 at our Hospital were included in this audit. On post-operative day 1, a standardised questionnaire which screened for ocular symptoms and the observance of correct post-operative procedure was administered. Additionally, an ophthalmic nurse delivered a set of instructions. Patients were then reviewed at our clinic on post-operative day 30. Complications and subsequent clinical management were recorded at this consultation.

Results:

The complications found were largely in line with international data and included: prolonged anterior chamber inflammation, cystoid macular oedema, refractive surprise and phimosis. Management at 1-month patient review was in all cases expectant, and there were no complications requiring urgent attention.

Conclusions:

A nurse conducted telephone questionnaire on post-operative day 1 appears to be a safe alternative to traditional follow-up. With its implementation, ophthalmic nurses can help relieve strain on ophthalmology departments.
The influence of goalkeeperś height on Soccer Performance: A gender-based analysis
Authors: De-la-Cruz-Torres B. , Navarro-Castro M. , Ruiz-de-Alarcón-Quintero A.
Published: January 2025

The difference in height between men and women goalkeepers (GKs) may influence goalkeeper performance, particularly when considering that both genders compete using goal frames of identical dimensions. The primary objective of this study was to establish the correlation between GKs’ height and their performance during the 2023–2024 UEFA Champions League season, encompassing both women's and men's leagues. A secondary objective was to analyze GKs’ performance overall. In total, 1751 shots on goal were analyzed, utilizing variables such as total shots on goal, goal shots, non-goal shots, effectiveness against shots conceded, expected goals on target (xGOT), class output, and zone output. A descriptive and correlational statistical analysis was conducted, along with a comparative analysis to assess differences between genders. The findings revealed no correlation between GKs’ height and their performance, as measured by the xGOT metric. The “low center” goal zone received the highest percentage of shots on target, while the “low left” and “low right” zones conceded the highest percentage of goals. The main conclusion of this study was GKs’ height should not be regarded as a determining physical characteristic for performance in both leagues. Furthermore, the predictive value of xGOT for a shot on goal resulting in a goal was determined to be 0.61 ± 0.29 for the women's league and 0.60 ± 0.29 for the men's league.
Identifying stakeholder perspectives and priorities for athlete monitoring technology: A mixed-methods study based on interviewing Belgian high-performance sports organisations
Authors: Aerts Jean-Marie , Moons Karen , Masci Federica , Meeusen Romain , Gielen Jasper
Published: January 2025

The rapid growth of technology in managing training processes offers both opportunities and challenges for sports practitioners. This study examines factors influencing technology adoption in four high-performance sports: golf, sprint kayak, freestyle snowboarding, and volleyball. Each discipline reflects distinct physiological and training needs. Using an interview-based approach and including 25 stakeholders (6 athletes, 14 coaches, and 5 high-performance managers), we captured qualitative and quantitative insights into the perceived benefits and challenges of technology in athlete monitoring.

The thematic analysis identified key advantages of technology in athlete monitoring, including objective data support, enhanced engagement, real-time feedback, and increased confidence, while also highlighting concerns around misuse, time demands, and technological complexity. Conflicting views on motivation, comfort, and human oversight further emphasized the challenges in integrating technology effectively.

To quantify these insights, we applied the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP), a structured prioritisation approach that is new within sports science, to rank essential technology features. Findings ranked Reliability (1st; 18.73%) and Validity (2nd; 18.42%) as top priorities, with Interpretability (3rd; 9.95%), Responsiveness (4th; 9.02%), and Complexity (5th; 8.08%) also valued. Key training priorities included monitoring Technique (1st; 15.94%), Performance (2nd; 15.24%), and Benchmarking (3rd; 11.90%).

The thematic analysis highlights the importance of balanced use of technology. In a complementary approach, the AHP provides a structured method for assessing stakeholder priorities, enhancing decision-making and helping align technology development with practitioner needs. By introducing a framework that bridges communication between engineers, scientists, and practitioners, this study guides the development of user-centred sports technologies that effectively address real-world challenges in high-performance organisations.
MDRM model and its application in hybrid reliability analysis
Authors: Wang Wenxuan , Wang Tao
Published: January 2025

The high-dimensional model decomposition method is an effective approach for solving the reliability of engineering structures or composite materials with a large number of uncertain parameters. The multiplicative dimensionality reduction method is a high-dimensional model decomposition technique that decomposes a high-dimensional function into a combination of low-dimensional functions and approximates the overall response of the high-dimensional function by solving the responses of these low-dimensional functions. This paper begins by discussing the extrema of functions based on the multiplicative dimensionality reduction method. Then, by combining it with Taylor series expansion, a method for approximating the extremum of a high-dimensional function was proposed. Furthermore, based on the multiplicative dimensionality reduction method, first-order reliability method, and Taylor series expansion, the functional relationship between upper and lower bounds of failure probability and interval variables was derived. Finally, using the algorithm proposed in this paper, the extrema of high-dimensional functions can be calculated to solve the upper and lower bounds of failure probability under random-interval hybrid uncertainty. This paper presents two engineering structures and a numerical example to demonstrate the efficiency and accuracy of the proposed method.
Reliability study on crack propagation life of aluminum alloy repair structure
Authors: Liao Yashi , Zhang Sen , Zhang Xuhui
Published: January 2025

In this paper, the life reliability analysis of AL-AL repair structure is studied. Firstly, the fatigue life of the repair structure is predicted by finite element numerical modeling combined with Forman’s empirical formula, and the influence law of the variation of the repair structure parameters on the fatigue life is investigated. Secondly, the uncertain factors affecting the fatigue life of the structure are considered, the objective function of the structure is linearly fitted, and the fatigue reliability model of the repair structure is established, and the reliability of the structure is obtained by calculating the probability of predicting the fatigue life to be greater than the allowable life. Finally, the parameters of the repair plate that affect the life reliability are analyzed and studied. The results show that under the same fatigue life, the order of parameters affecting the reliability of the repair structure is: repair plate position x > repair plate width w > repair plate length l.
Pouchitis unveiled: exploring clinical features, diagnosis, and cutting-edge treatments
Authors: Lusetti Francesca , Martins Helfenberger Camilla Almeida , Kurtz de Mello Munique , Queiroz Natália Sousa Freitas
Published: January 2025

Last decades led to a revolution in the management of ulcerative colitis (UC), due to the development of novel advanced therapies and the identification of increasingly ambitious therapeutic goals. Nevertheless, a subset of patients, refractory to available therapies, still requires proctocolectomy with ileal pouch-anal anastomosis (IPAA). Pouchitis, an inflammatory condition of the ileal pouch, is the most common long-term complication of IPAA, affecting almost one-half of patients in the first 10 years after surgery. Symptoms of pouchitis include increased stool frequency, urgency, and abdominal discomfort, significantly affecting patients’ quality of life. Traditionally the mainstay treatment of acute pouchitis involves the use of antibiotics, but one-fifth of patients develop chronic pouchitis (CP), which may be dependent or resistant to antibiotics, posing significant challenges in the management of this condition. Currently, there is still no consensus on the optimal management for CP, though recent progress in understanding the pathophysiology of pouchitis has paved the way for innovative therapeutic approaches, based on biological therapies and small molecules. This review aims to discuss the recent advanced therapies available for pouchitis and provide a comprehensive review on the topic to guide physicians in their clinical practice.
Prioritizing conservation of threatened raptor species using synergistic distribution modeling of high potential areas in foothills of Eastern Himalayas, India
Authors: Mahananda Pranjal , Saikia Malabika Kakati , Sarma Kuladip , Chetry Vivek , Saikia Prasanta Kumar
Published: January 2025

Species Distribution Models are widely used to predict single and multiple species distribution based on different environmental parameters concerned. Such a framework often ignores distribution overlapping of associated species of the same taxon or genus which may lead to high-cost conservation for the concerned authority. Cost effective conservation management can be practiced by prioritizing areas of high suitability, shared by one or more related species. Here, we proposed the concept of the high probable distribution area shared by at least two species i.e. Synergistic potential distribution area in Assam. Analysis of the synergistic distribution map showed that the average combined high potential area of all the species is 3140 km2, and the average synergistic distribution area shared by at least two species accounts for 1367.63 km2 ( Falco severus + Gyps tenuirostris = 1446.19 km2, Falco severus + Haliaeetus leucoryphys = 1404.75 km2, Gyps tenuirostris + Haliaeetus leucoryphus = 1251.95 km2). We found that the highly suitable areas of raptors in Assam were mostly concentrated in the Manas Tiger Reserve landscape, Kaziranga-Karbi Anglong landscape and Upper Brahmaputra valley. This concept would definitely help to identify areas shared by raptors and prioritize cost effective conservation efforts.
Open up the poverty loop: The influence of social class on intertemporal choice
Authors: Duan Jinyun , Liang Fenghua , Song Dian , Xu Zhuo
Published: January 2025

Research has indicated that poverty and inequality among social classes can be a processive and intergenerational problem. Drawing from class-based social cognitive theory and cognitive-experiential self-theory, we propose that socioeconomic status (both subjective and objective) is linked to individual intertemporal decision-making through financial literacy and rational thinking. We tested our proposed theoretical relationships through two studies: an analysis of a large archival dataset, as well as a field survey. First, using CART analysis, we find that financial literacy and objective socioeconomic status possess predictive power over intertemporal choice outcomes: as an individual's financial literacy and objective socioeconomic hierarchy increase, so does their likelihood of saving money in the present rather than spending it. Furthermore, our findings indicate that financial literacy and rational thinking serve as mediators between social class and intertemporal choice. The results provide a more sophisticated view of how social class shapes intertemporal preference and decision-making outcomes.
Acceptance and commitment therapy with Huntington's disease: A narrative review and case report of a caregiver-assisted intervention
Authors: Schriger Simone H , Nurse Chelsi N , O’Hayer C Virginia
Published: January 2025

Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) is an experiential, action-oriented talk therapy that emphasizes acceptance of painful inner experience through increased psychological flexibility. In this narrative review and case report, we first review the extant literature on applications of ACT to patients with a variety of mental and physical health challenges, including neurodegenerative disorders, and their caregivers. We then discuss applications of ACT to Huntington's disease (HD). We provide a case report of a 52-year-old man living with HD who, accompanied by his caregiver, received a virtually-delivered 6-session ACT intervention. We measured the patient's self-reported symptoms of depression (PHQ-9) and anxiety (GAD-7) as well as his health-related quality of life (HDQoL) and level of cognitive fusion (i.e., being attached to his thoughts; CFQ-13) at baseline and following the intervention. At follow-up, the patient had a clinically significant reduction in depressive symptoms (from moderate to mild symptomatology) and cognitive fusion. Further, the patient had improvements in quality of life across the domains of physical functioning, mood, and worries. The promising outcomes of this case, as well as extant literature on the effectiveness of ACT in supporting individuals with similar neurodegenerative disorders, suggests that ACT may hold promise as a scalable and impactful intervention for individuals living with HD and their caregivers. We conclude with a call for further study of ACT with this population to build a more robust evidence base that can be used to benefit individuals living with HD and their caregivers.
Research Progress in the Medicine-Food Dual Use of Angelica sinensis in Digestive System Tumors
Authors: Jiao Taiqiang , Li Xiangyang , Jiang Wengjie , Yang Yifan , Li Jiaqing , Niu Yang , Nan Yi
Published: January 2025

Angelica sinensis (AS) is a widely used medicinal and culinary herb frequently considered critical in traditional prescriptions. Modern pharmacological studies have validated its beneficial effects, including nourishing, blood activation, anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, liver and kidney protection, and tumor inhibition. Due to the lack of existing reviews on AS in treating digestive system tumors (DS-T), this study investigated the pharmacological effects of AS and its primary active components in combating DS-T from three main perspectives. First, we have summarized its mechanisms for treating various DS-T by analyzing in vitro and in vivo experimental studies. Second, we analyzed frequently used radiotherapy drugs and determined the potential of AS and its active ingredients to reduce toxicity and enhance efficacy. Additionally, AS can be integrated into both regular and medicated diets, thereby effectively preventing tumor development and facilitating post-surgery and radiotherapy recovery. In conclusion, AS exhibits potential as an anti-DS-T drug, providing a theoretical foundation for daily dietary and clinical medicinal use and offering insights for future scientific research and innovation.
Indigenous Land Under Attack and its Consequences for Biodiversity Conservation
Authors: Umbelino Bruno , Alves-Pinto Helena N. , Vieira Marcus Vinicius , Viveiros Grelle Carlos Eduardo
Published: January 2025

Indigenous Lands are globally recognized as crucial for maintaining ecosystem services, enhancing climate resilience, and supporting both biodiversity conservation and indigenous rights. They are essential not only for their ecological importance but also for preserving the traditional knowledge of indigenous communities, which significantly contributes to sustainable environmental management. The “Marco Temporal” legislation proposed by Brazilian legislators’ states that only Indigenous Lands occupied before October 1988 can be demarcated or remain registered, opening the way for the fragmentation and extinction of demarcated areas. This legislation will lead to deforestation and biodiversity loss, threatens indigenous cultural heritage, and traditional knowledge, and undermines food sovereignty for indigenous communities. The potential approval of the “Marco Temporal” legislation represents a significant retrogression in addressing environmental and social justice. Safeguarding Indigenous Lands is imperative for promoting ecological restoration, mitigating climate change, and ensuring the continued protection of both biodiversity and indigenous cultural practices.
Inpatient Implementation of Portable Ocular Fundus Photography Among Neurology Residents
Authors: Schwartz Nicholas U. , Silverman Andrew , Beres Shannon , Moss Heather E. , Kvam Kathryn , Galetta Kristin
Published: January 2025

Background: Nonmydriatic ocular fundus photography has been studied with demonstrated benefit in the evaluation of emergency department neurological complaints, particularly in triaging headache and focal neurological deficits. Likewise, portable fundus camera usage may be practical for inpatients with neurological complaints, although feasibility has not been studied in a neurology teaching service. Purpose: The objective of this study is to determine if a portable, nonmydriatic fundus camera could be integrated into routine clinical care by neurology inpatient housestaff at a tertiary medical center. Research Design: Housestaff were asked to obtain fundus photographs for patients with specific indications for fundoscopy. Study Sample: During a 1-month pilot period, housestaff were successfully able to upload images from 21 patients, which were reviewed by a neuro-ophthalmology attending, with input from on-call ophthalmology if desired. Results: Surveys of housestaff before (n = 13) and after (n = 12) implementation demonstrated increased confidence in camera operation and in ocular structure identification, description, and interpretation. Thematic analysis on qualitative feedback suggested benefits in clinical (improving fundus visualization, aiding in triage, sharing images with offsite staff), health systems (reducing length of stay, reducing ophthalmology consultations, reduced unnecessary testing), and educational domains (facilitating group discussions of images, sharing photographs with patients). Conclusions: Overall, inpatient portable fundus photography was shown to be feasible and effective for rapid fundus visualization for neurological inpatients, enhancing the ability to share, document, and compare examinations among neurology housestaff. Further work is needed to confirm clinical and educational benefits of portable fundus photography usage by neurology residents, as suggested by this healthcare quality improvement pilot study.
Is Narcissism Linked to Stress Reactivity Under Social-Evaluative Threat?
Authors: Stern Julia , Otte Christian , Wingenfeld Katja , Streit Fabian , Kumsta Robert , Deuter Christian Eric , Dufner Michael
Published: January 2025

Previous research reported that different subtypes of narcissism lead to stronger or weaker stress responses, due to narcissistic individual’s sensitivity to social evaluation. However, evidence remains mixed. In the current preregistered study, we investigated psychological and physiological stress response indicators (self-reports, salivary cortisol levels, blood pressure, and heart rate) of N = 161 male participants exposed to the Trier Social Stress Test (TSST) or a control condition. Narcissism subtypes (i.e., grandiose and vulnerable) and the two facets of grandiose narcissism (i.e., narcissistic admiration and rivalry) were assessed via self-report questionnaires. Results suggest that the TSST led to stronger stress responses as compared with the control condition. However, we found no compelling evidence of any narcissism subtype or facet being associated with stronger stress responses. These results question the proposal that narcissism is a way to compensate for an ultimately weak, or fragile, self.
Outcome of acute ischemic stroke with absent opacification of the cervical internal carotid artery at CT-angiography after endovascular treatment
Authors: Comai Alessio , Casalboni Chiara , Vingiani Vincenzo , Bonatti Matteo , Franchini Enrica , Dall’Ora Elisa , Noumsi Guensom Ghislain , Lombardo Fabio , Federica Ferro , Petralia Benedetto
Published: January 2025

Purpose: Occlusion of the distal internal carotid artery can simulate a proximal occlusion of its cervical tract on CT angiography in patients with acute ischemic stroke, that is, pseudo-occlusion. As true and false carotid occlusions can present similarly on non-invasive imaging in patients undergoing endovascular treatment for stroke, our study aimed to evaluate clinical and technical differences of these conditions and the possible consequences of a misdiagnosis. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed consecutive patients who underwent mechanical thrombectomy for acute ischemic stroke at a single center between July 2015 and May 2022 and included patients with absent opacification of the cervical carotid artery on CT-angiography. Digital subtraction angiography (DSA) imaging and procedural data were evaluated to define the actual localization of the occlusion. We compared imaging and clinical data between patients with true and false carotid occlusion, including collateral circulation at CTA, revascularization grade, and clinical outcome at 3 months. Results: A total of 116 patients were included, 63 (54%) of whom had true occlusion of cervical internal carotid artery. Compared to the pseudo-occlusion group, collateral circulation at CTA was moderate to good in 75% of cases (vs 32%; p < 0.0001) and the mean ASPECT score at 24 h was 7 versus 2 ( p < 0.0001). Modified Rankin scale 0–2 at 90 days was more frequent in patients with true occlusion than those with pseudo-occlusion (48 vs 11%; p = 0.0002). Conclusion: Pseudo-occlusion of the cervical internal carotid artery in patients with acute ischemic stroke appears to be associated with worst prognosis and poorer collateral circulation in comparison with tandem occlusion.
Genetic background and clinical phenotype in a Vietnamese cohort with Brugada syndrome: A whole exome sequencing study
Authors: Tran Viet Tuan , Pham Hung Manh , Phan Phong Dinh , Tran Thinh Huy , Tran Van Khanh
Published: January 2025

Objectives

The aim of this study was to report the spectrum of genetic variations and clinical phenotype in a Vietnamese cohort with confirmed Brugada syndrome (BrS) using the whole exome sequencing (WES).

Methods

Fifty patients with confirmed BrS were included in this study. Genomic DNA samples were extracted from peripheral blood and conducted for WES. The variants were annotated using ANNOVAR. The variants in the 13 reported genes associated with BrS were filtered, predicted the functional impact using eight computational tools, and classified according to the 2015 ACMG guidelines.

Results

Arrhythmic events were documented in one-fifth of the participants. Twenty-four probands were identified to carry 36 variants in 13 genes. Majority of the variants in our study was SCN5A variants (9/36 variants, 25%), followed by KCNH2 variants (5/36 variants, 14%). The prevalence of SCN5A carriers was 16%; while the prevalence of minor gene carriers was less than 10%. Nine novel missense variants were identified, including four missense SCN5A variants (p.E901D, p.F853L, p.L377F, and p.H184R), two missense ANK2 variants (p.S2845L and V1497L), one missense CACNA1C variant (M1126V), one missense DSP variant (p.K478N), and one intron splicing JUP variant (c.1498-5G>C).

Conclusion

Our study underscores the primary significance of the SCN5A gene in BrS, as indicated by variant prevalence, carrier rates, pathogenicity per ACMG classification, in silico predictions, and its correlation with clinical phenotypes. Longitudinal study with larger sample size, pedigree, Sanger sequence confirmation, and functional analysis is recommended.
Advanced anaplastic thyroid carcinoma with positive expression of PD-L1 response to immune checkpoint inhibitors: A case report
Authors: Fan Shanmin , Yuan Yang , Su Yanfang , Sang Die
Published: January 2025

Anaplastic thyroid carcinoma (ATC) is one rare type of thyroid carcinoma without standard systemic treatment for advanced disease. Recent evidence has demonstrated promising efficacy of immune checkpoint inhibitors, particularly those targeting programmed death-1 (PD-1)/programmed death ligand 1 (PD-L1), in a variety of solid tumors. However, there have been no research of immune checkpoint inhibitors plus chemotherapy in ATC. Here, we present the case of a 37-year-old man with metastatic ATC with positive PD-L1 expression, who achieved long-term remission of 34 months after later-line treatment with zimberelimab (a PD-1 inhibitor) and nab-paclitaxel, followed by single-agent zimberelimab maintenance therapy. After three cycles of the combination treatment, the thyroid lesion and the liver metastases shrank dramatically, leading to the best overall response of partial remission. PD-L1 expression may serve as a potential biomarker for tumor response to immune checkpoint inhibitors in ATC. Our review highlights the need for further studies investigating the role of PD-L1 status as biomarker to predict the prognosis of immunotherapy in the treatment of ATC.
Total Anomalous Pulmonary Venous Return, Marfan Syndrome, and Severe Combined Immunodeficiency: A Lethal Combination?
Authors: Hogue Spencer J. , Faateh Muhammed , Ashfaq Awais
Published: January 2025

The authors present an exceptionally rare case of a newborn in whom total anomalous pulmonary venous return (TAPVR) had been diagnosed prenatally and in whom genetic testing after neonatal cardiac repair confirmed a missense variant of the FBN1 gene consistent with Marfan syndrome as well as a PRKDC gene mutation associated with severe combined immunodeficiency. To the authors’ knowledge, this is the first reported case with this unique combination. Neonatal TAPVR repair was undertaken with a good postoperative outcome and survival until the last follow-up.
To live or not to live at school? Boarding school impact on standardized academic outcomes for left-behind, rural, and low-income students in China
Authors: Gonzalez Canche Manuel S. , Liang Yunhao , Zhang Chelsea
Published: January 2025

China's education system is striving to improve educational quality and address disparities. Recent policy initiatives have focused on providing better opportunities for left-behind students—those from low-income and rural backgrounds whose parents have sought employment elsewhere. One of these policies was the establishment of schools in rural areas that offer boarding education. Though early studies on this policy have raised/found safety and health concerns, there is little evidence of whether boarding education impact rural students and low-income students differently than their urban and non-low-income peers. Relying on non-self-reported, longitudinal academic outcomes (China Education Panel Survey) of a nationally representative sample of Chinese students, we offer quasi-experimental estimates (via doubly robust propensity score weighting and Oster’s sensitivity checks) of the impact of boarding education on Chinese, Mathematics, and English outcomes. We found strong evidence of positive impact of boarding education on Chinese and Mathematics, particularly among low SES and rural students. However, for English performance and the results for high SES and urban students, boarding education was not better than commuting from home. Our discussion elaborates on the mechanisms behind these findings and emphasizes the significance of our research findings for policymakers and its relevance to educational practices. Replication code/data access: https://cutt.ly/meS3atYc .
Assessing the Impact of Patient-Specific Instrumentation and Fixation on Accuracy and Radiation Exposure in a Cadaveric Model of Medial Opening-Wedge High Tibial Osteotomy
Authors: Carey E. Grant , Kamath Atul F. , Vidal Armando F. , Frush Todd , Alaia Michael , Baldwin Robert B. , Ranawat Anil
Published: January 2025

Background:

Traditional freehand techniques in high tibial osteotomy (HTO) have been shown to lack precision and accuracy. Patient-specific instrumentation (PSI) and fixation created from cross-sectional imaging have recently been introduced to address this problem.

Purpose/Hypothesis:

The purpose of the study was to compare traditional freehand techniques versus PSI in a human cadaveric model of HTO. It was hypothesized that the osteotomies performed using PSI would require less radiation exposure for operating room staff and would reduce deviation from the planned correction in the coronal, sagittal, and axial planes.

Study Design:

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods:

Sixteen matched cadaveric knees underwent medial opening-wedge HTO via the freehand method (n = 8) or PSI technique (n = 8) with a predetermined planned opening-wedge size. Computed tomography was used to measure the achieved wedge size as well as alignment parameters in the coronal, sagittal, and axial planes. Radiation dose, number of fluoroscopic images taken, and total operative time were recorded.

Results:

The mean deviation from the planned wedge size was smaller in the PSI group compared with the freehand group (0.505 vs 3.016 mm, respectively; P < .01). Total radiation dose to medical staff (0.85 vs 2.04 mGy; P < .01) and number of fluoroscopic images (15.5 vs 41; P < .01) were also smaller in the PSI versus the freehand group, respectively. No difference was seen in total operative time between the 2 groups ( P = .62).

Conclusion:

In cadaveric specimens, the PSI technique demonstrated superior accuracy and decreased radiation exposure for medical staff compared with the traditional freehand technique without compromising operative efficiency.

Clinical Relevance:

The use of PSI when HTO is performed can lead to more accurate operations and potentially improve outcomes.