bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Survey of Extracorporeal Life Support Application in Lung Transplantation
Authors: Wilkey Barbara Jeanne , Elliott Tyler , Jones Todd Everett , Vasilopoulos Terrie , Gelzinis Theresa , Bellomy Melissa , Brodt Jessica Louise , Knight Joshua , Geube Mariya Atanassova , Fox John Michael , Racine Christopher Lee , Tawil Justin Nadeem , Kozarek Katharine , Subramani Sudhakar , Siegrist Kara Kimberly , Kothary Pratik , Peng Yong Gang , Miltiades Andrea Nicole , McCartney Sharon Lorraine , Bottiger Brandi Anne , Martin Archer Kilbourne
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Lung transplantation has been evolving since its inception in 1963. Over recent years, literature has suggested a shift in the perioperative strategy of mechanical support toward extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) as the preferred modality of extracorporeal life support (ECLS) in lung transplantation. The Survey of ECLS Application in Lung transplantation (SEAL) was designed to elucidate the current practice patterns of perioperative ECLS within the United States.

Methods

In this cross‐sectional study, a physician from 62 adult lung transplantation centers across the United States of America (USA) was surveyed on their institutional practices regarding the perioperative management of lung transplantation patients, with a focus on mechanical support.

Results

The survey completion rate was 74% (46/62 eligible institutions). Most transplant centers utilize venoarterial (VA) ECMO (78%, 36/46) and/or venovenous (VV) ECMO (93%, 29/43) as a bridge to lung transplantation. When ECLS is used intraoperatively, 61% of (28/46) responding programs use VA ECMO as their preferred support. All programs use transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) intraoperatively, 85% (33/39) cannulate for ECMO centrally, and 74% (29/39) use a combination of inhaled and intravenous anesthesia while using ECMO intraoperatively. Most programs do not use antifibrinolytic during VA ECMO (62%, 28/45). Anticoagulation management and VA ECMO flows throughout the procedure showed considerable variation.

Conclusion

Data from SEAL illustrates that though there are some practice commonalities within the United States, there is also quite a bit of variability in practice. Multiple dominant practices within the USA are consistent with a recently published International Society of Heart and Lung Transplantation consensus.
Advances and Challenges of Thrombolytic Therapy for Donation After Circulatory Death Organs
Authors: Zhang Peng , Liang Han , Wang Yanfeng
Published: February 2025

The demand for organ transplantation has exceeded the global supply of available organs. Donation after circulatory death (DCD) is considered an effective method to solve the disparity between the supply and demand of organs, by expanding the donor pool. However, DCD organs experience long‐term damage caused by warm ischemia (WI) and microthrombosis caused by diffuse intravascular coagulation. Unfortunately, because of concerns about post‐transplantation complications, most organs considered high‐risk are discarded, resulting in wasted medical resources and economic losses. However, thrombolytic therapy before transplantation may dissolve microthrombosis in DCD organs, improve organ microcirculation, and increase organ use. Herein, we review the current status and potential value of thrombolytic therapy before DCD organ transplantation, summarize the progress of thrombolytic therapy for DCD organ transplantation according to preclinical and clinical research, and emphasize the heterogeneity and limitations of studies that have caused some controversies associated with this therapy. Overall, the role of thrombolytic therapy should not be overlooked. We anticipate that thrombolytic therapy combined with machine perfusion will provide an opportunity to improve inferior‐quality DCD grafts, resulting in their becoming more widely available and safer for transplantation, thus solving the urgent problem of organ shortage.
Functional Status Trajectory and Survival for Adult Patients Undergoing Heart Transplantation
Authors: Wittenberg Rachel E. , Mostofsky Elizabeth , Mittleman Murray A.
Published: February 2025

Background

Transplantation is a critical treatment for end‐stage heart disease and improves length and quality of life. We investigated predictors of functional status improvement following transplant and the association between functional status trajectory and survival.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective cohort study using Scientific Registry of Transplant Recipients data on 34 009 US adults who underwent heart transplant 2006–2021. Functional status was measured using the Karnofsky Performance Scale (KPS; 0%–100%). Linear regression with stepwise selection was used to identify predictors of KPS trajectories. Kaplan–Meier curves and adjusted Cox proportional hazard models were used to compare survival.

Results

Mean KPS was low at listing (47.9%) and transplant (45.6%) and increased to 85.7% and 89.2% at 1‐ and 5‐years posttransplant. Independent predictors of KPS trajectory in the first year included hypertension, diabetes, BMI, prior tobacco, previous malignancy, age, sex, education level, insurance type, etiology of heart disease, prior cardiac surgery, “1A” waitlist priority, and hospitalization status. KPS trajectory during the waitlist period and the first year posttransplant predicted survival, independent of baseline KPS. Decrease in KPS > −30% and −30% to < 0% in the first year were associated with 5.74 (3.45–9.56) and 2.09 (1.69–2.59) times higher mortality than stable KPS after adjusting for baseline KPS and other factors. Poor KPS trajectory in the waitlist period was similarly associated with higher mortality.

Conclusions

Functional status improvement is an important outcome following heart transplantation, and KPS trajectory predicts survival. Most patients achieve high KPS, but clinical and social interventions may optimize KPS trajectory for high‐risk patients.
Bayesian Population Pharmacokinetic Modeling of Ondansetron for Neonatal Opioid Withdrawal Syndrome
Authors: Lam Kevin , Mondick John T. , Peltz Gary , Wu Manhong , Kraft Walter K.
Published: February 2025

Ondansetron is an anti‐emetic 5‐HT3 receptor antagonist being investigated for treating neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome (NOWS). Sparse PK data were analyzed from a multicenter, double‐blind clinical trial with 98 mother/neonate dyads. Pregnant women with opioid use disorder were randomized to receive either placebo or ondansetron 8 mg intravenously within 4 h of delivery. Neonates born to mothers who were randomized to ondansetron received 0.07 mg/kg orally once every 24 h for up to five doses. Using current PK data, model parameters from a two‐compartmental structural model from the literature (i.e., a priori model) were updated with the Metropolis‐Hastings Markov‐chain Monte Carlo estimation algorithm in NONMEM. The updated Bayesian model indicated a slower absorption rate (KA) but no differences in model parameters (CL, V, V2, Q) after including body weight and postmenstrual age. Sensitivity analyses on CL prior revealed statistical improvement favoring larger body weights, but not changes in postmenstrual age. However, further model development using larger body weights did not illustrate superior performance through visual inspection of diagnostic plots. Overall, a cumulative AUC of at least 1000 ng*h/mL appears to be the threshold for reductions in symptom severity. Exposure‐response analyses suggest the total number of doses to be the primary driver for efficacy with respect to AUC, which reasonably aligns with the literature. Overall, it is suggested that at least three doses of the current oral ondansetron regimen are required to reduce symptom severity in neonates.
Unmet treatment need: The size of the gap for alcohol and other drugs in Australia
Authors: Ritter Alison , O'Reilly Keelin
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Assessing unmet demand for alcohol and other drug (AOD) treatment requires accurately counting those in treatment and determining those in need of treatment. Using updated epidemiological and treatment data, this study sought to provide an updated estimate of the unmet demand for AOD treatment in Australia.

Methods

Australian prevalence rates for alcohol, cannabis, methamphetamine and opioid use disorders were obtained from the Global Burden of Disease and research studies. The estimated proportion of people who would likely not seek or need treatment were subtracted from the diagnosed population. The number of people receiving treatment was estimated using AOD treatment databases and previous research.

Results

An estimated 752,812 to 1,291,119 people met criteria for a substance use disorder in Australia in 2023. Removing the proportion of people who would not need or seek treatment resulted in between 406,697 and 668,497 people as the potential treatment population. The number of people who received treatment in Australia was estimated at 198,731 people. The unmet demand for AOD treatment was estimated to be between 207,966 and 469,767 in 2023.

Discussion and Conclusions

In Australia, we only treat between 30% and 48% of the population who would seek and benefit from AOD treatment. This is a conservative analysis that assumes only 40% of the alcohol and cannabis use disorder population would seek treatment. The findings from this analysis highlight the continued significant unmet treatment needs of people with substance use disorders. Treatment resources need to be doubled in order to address this unmet treatment population.
Attunement and the Sense of Significance in Dianthropocene Life
Authors: Lybke Steen Hjul
Published: February 2025

The concept of the Anthropocene rightly points to the damaging effects of human agency on ecosystems and the climate. In this article, I argue that the agency of nature nonetheless continues to play a central role on the human sense of significance. For this purpose, I introduce and discuss the Danish philosopher‐theologian K.E. Løgstrup's concept of attunement and show how attunement constitutes a relationship between humans and nature through which a sense of fellowship, rather than hostility, springs. This section is divided into two parts. The first part outlines the elementary features to Løgstrup's argument in his philosophy of sensation, while the second part elaborates on his concept of attunement. It is argued that Løgstrup's philosophy of sensation and attunement describes what I call sovereign conditions of life that are continuously at work in midst of the Anthropocene. Subsequently, two empirical cases are applied to illustrate how attunement is operative in experiences of agency in nature. In conclusion, I propose the concept of the Dianthropocene as a tool for rediscovering the mutual ‘throughput’ circulations between human and more‐than‐human agency.
Familial High‐Risk for Psychosis and Bipolar Disorder Amongst Youth in an Academic Healthcare System: A Real‐World Assessment of Clinical Characteristics and Implications for Clinical Care
Authors: Türközer Halide Bilge , Guvenek‐Cokol Perihan Esra , Millman Zachary B. , Dickstein Daniel , Öngür Dost
Published: February 2025

Objective

Family history is amongst the most significant risk factors for psychotic and bipolar disorders. Despite being clearly defined, easily and early identifiable, familial high‐risk status is minimally accounted for in mainstream prevention paradigms. This study reports on the demographics and clinical characteristics of youth with a first‐degree relative affected by psychotic or bipolar disorders within a large academic healthcare system.

Method

In this quality improvement study, using electronic medical records, the authors examined demographics, psychiatric and medical diagnoses, substance use, service utilisation, and psychotropic medication use in children, adolescents and young adults (age 24 or younger) with and without a family history of psychotic or bipolar disorders within the Mass General Brigham (MGB) healthcare system.

Results

Family history‐positive (FHP) youth demonstrated markedly higher rates of psychiatric problems (57.8%) compared to family history‐negative (FHN) youth (8.5%), including higher rates of psychotic and bipolar disorders, as well as anxiety disorders and depression. FHP youth also had more frequent psychotropic medication use and medical problems. Additionally, FHP youth reported higher cannabis and alcohol use, along with higher rates of suicidal ideation and trauma. Despite this, only 4% of FHP youth visited an MGB psychiatry or psychology department within the six months preceding the analysis.

Conclusion

FHP youth constitute a distinct and practically identifiable risk cohort within a large academic healthcare system. Increased psychiatric and medical problems coupled with more prevalent risk factors amongst familial high‐risk youth highlight the need for tailored clinical programmes to achieve both primary and secondary prevention.
The Impact of Social Entrepreneurship Education on Students' Social Entrepreneurial Intention: The Mediating Role of Social Entrepreneurial Competence
Authors: Mao Di , Yao Wei
Published: February 2025

While extensive research has been conducted on social entrepreneurship education and its potential to enhance university students' social entrepreneurial intentions, questions persist in relation to whether social entrepreneurial competence plays a relevant role in this context. This paper presents the findings from a Chinese study that aims to investigate the impact of social entrepreneurship education in universities on students' social entrepreneurial competence and their intentions toward social entrepreneurship. Our findings highlight the importance of competence‐based education in fostering social entrepreneurial intentions. Social entrepreneurship education increases university students' emotional competence and functional competence, which are crucial for developing social entrepreneurial intentions. This paper contributes to social entrepreneurship education literature by emphasising the need to integrate a competence‐based view into social entrepreneurship education programs. Some implications and suggestions for further practice and research are also put forward based on the result analysis.
Beyond the Classroom: How Socioeconomic Status, Parental Involvement and Home Environment Impact on Students' Science Academic Performance at Secondary Schools
Authors: Zafeer Hafiz Muhammad Ihsan , Maqbool Samra , Rong Yu , Maqbool Sufyan
Published: February 2025

Science education is crucial for students as it fosters critical thinking, problem‐solving skills and a deeper understanding of the natural world. The present study explored factors beyond the classroom that impact students' science academic performance (SSAP) at secondary schools. Based on research questions and literature, three hypotheses were formulated using factors beyond the classroom such as socioeconomic status (SES), parents' involvement (PI) and home environment (HE) that impact SSAP at secondary schools. A quantitative survey approach was employed. Data were collected from 430 participants who were science teachers and currently teaching science courses at secondary schools in Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan. The data collection process included using a survey questionnaire to collect data on SES, PI, HE and SSAP. In order to analyse the given data, two statistical software were used, namely SPSS and AMOS 24. Several statistical methods were used to analyse the collected data, such as exploratory factor analysis (EFA) to uncover the underlying structure of a relatively large set of variables and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) to test whether the data fit a hypothesised measurement model. Moreover, correlation analysis was conducted to discover the relationship among variables, while regression analysis was conducted to determine the impact of independent variables on the dependent variable. The findings revealed factors beyond the classroom (SES, PI and HE) statistically positive impact SSAP. Based on the results, the study recommends that schools organise workshops and training sessions for parents to support their children's science learning, offer flexible parental involvement opportunities and provide educational resources like books and kits to help the academic environment at home. Policymakers and other stakeholders should ensure equitable resource distribution across schools, mainly targeting low‐SES areas and providing additional funding for science programmes and extracurricular activities.
Effectiveness of AI‐Driven Vocal Art Tools in Enhancing Student Performance and Creativity
Authors: Liu Hui , Guo Wei
Published: February 2025

In contemporary music education, innovative technologies, particularly artificial intelligence (AI)‐based tools, play a crucial role. The objective of this study was to assess the effectiveness of AI‐based tools in enhancing students' success and creativity. The study involved 158 students from a leading music institution, who were divided into control and experimental groups. Methods employed included surveys and testing, along with AI‐based tools: Vocal AI Analyzer and Smart Vocal Coach. The results indicated a significant improvement in vocal skills (from 3.5 to 4.5 in the experimental group) and creativity (from 2.9 to 4.1 in the experimental group) compared with the control group. The AI‐based tools demonstrated high effectiveness, providing individualised instruction and immediate feedback. The practical significance of the research lies in the potential implementation of such technologies in music educational institutions to enhance teaching effectiveness and the development of students' creative abilities.
A multicenter cohort study on the efficacy, retention, and tolerability of cenobamate in patients with developmental and epileptic encephalopathies
Authors: Buhleier Elisa , Schubert‐Bast Susanne , Knake Susanne , von Podewils Felix , Hamer Hajo M. , Melzer Nico , Kurlemann Gerhard , Klotz Kerstin Alexandra , Willems Laurent M. , Rosenow Felix , Brunklaus Andreas , Strzelczyk Adam
Published: February 2025

Objective

This study was undertaken to evaluate retention and treatment characteristics of cenobamate (CNB) in patients with developmental and epileptic encephalopathies (DEEs) in clinical practice.

Methods

This multicenter, retrospective cohort study recruited all patients with DEEs who started CNB treatment between October 2020 and April 2023 at participating epilepsy centers.

Results

A total of 41 patients (mean age = 28.3 ± 13.1 years, median = 26 years, range = 4–73 years; 24 male [58.5%]) were treated with CNB. Of these, 33 had Lennox–Gastaut syndrome, seven had tuberous sclerosis complex, and one had Dravet syndrome. The median number of antiseizure medications (ASMs) at enrollment was three, and patients had a median of eight failed ASMs in the past. The retention rate for CNB was 94.9% at 3 months, 82.9% at 6 months, and 72.4% at 12 months of follow‐up. Cumulative exposure to CNB was 477 months (39.2 years). Efficacy (50% responder rate) at 3 months was 39% including 7.3% seizure‐free patients. Long‐term, the 50% responder rate at 12 months was 34.5% (seizure‐free [10.3%]). There was no difference in response at 3 months regarding sex, age (adult vs. children), previous and concomitant number of ASMs, or first target dose of CNB. Treatment‐emergent adverse events were predominantly sedation and dizziness and were observed in 58.5% of patients. Children and adolescents showed comparable efficacy, retention, and tolerability compared to adults.

Significance

The findings from this open‐label, retrospective study suggest that CNB may be effective in some patients with DEEs. Its overall use in DEEs seems to be safe and well tolerated. We observed similar response, retention, and adverse event profiles in children and adults.
Textures of care: Rethinking culture and therapeutic expertise in global psy
Authors: Augustyniak Nadia
Published: February 2025

How are psychotherapeutic approaches adapted and transformed in diverse contexts? This study situates the question in the global yet stratified field of psy knowledge production. Exploring the work of a group of psychological counselors in Sri Lanka, I theorize how such transformation takes shape at the intersection of explicit knowledge and tacit, embodied understanding through the concept of textures. Drawn from ordinary ethics and a phenomenological understanding of habit, the concept points to the felt qualities of interactions and the shared cultural sensibilities and ethical orientations they reflect. Focusing on the counselors’ discourse of “showing the way,” I illustrate how therapeutic practice may be textured, in this case, by forms of moral discernment that evoke Buddhist ethics and by a framing of distress that foregrounds the scene of the problem rather than the client's emotional experience. I argue that attending to such textures of care makes it possible to deconstruct hierarchies of expertise and recognize forms of practice which appear to go against the grain of normative therapeutic frameworks as generative. This makes visible the diverse understandings of emotion, personhood, and well‐being that localized forms of therapeutic practice engender within the contemporary, global psy imaginary.
Use of positron emission tomography and magnetic resonance imaging to identify central tarsal bone necrosis
Authors: Arndt S. , Spriet M. , Kilcoyne I. , Pige C. , Miklavcic M. , Murphy B. G. , Dechant J. E.
Published: February 2025

A 14‐year‐old Warmblood gelding presented for septic arthritis of the tarsocrural joint and tarsometatarsal joint post corticosteroid injection. Both joints were treated with arthroscopic and needle lavage, respectively. Additional treatments included systemic antimicrobials, intravenous regional limb perfusions and intra‐articular antimicrobials. Walking comfort significantly decreased 9 days post joint lavage. Persistent synovial infection was confirmed through repeat arthrocentesis, necessitating a second arthroscopic lavage. Progressive sclerosis of the central tarsal bone was observed on consecutive radiographs of the right tarsus. Given the clinical deterioration advanced diagnostic imaging using 18F‐sodium fluoride (NaF) positron emission tomography (PET) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) were performed. The images revealed loss of blood supply and severe sclerosis of part of the central tarsal bone, consistent with potential devitalized bone. The horse was humanely euthanised. Histopathology confirmed necrotic and sclerotic bone in the dorsomedial aspect of the central tarsal bone. It is hypothesised that the septic arthritis led to inflammation‐associated bone infarction and necrosis of the central tarsal bone. Clinicians should be aware of possible bone necrosis in the central tarsal bone of equine patients, presented for chronic septic arthritis. This report highlights the value in the use of 18F‐NaF PET and MRI for early identification of osteonecrosis.
FXR suppress Müller cell activation by regulating cGAS/STING pathway in diabetic retinopathy
Authors: Wang Zi‐Li , Zhang Xin‐Yu , Tan Cheng‐Ye , Zhuang Miao , Zhu Lingpeng , Zheng Xin‐Hua , Yao Yong , Wei Ting‐Ting
Published: February 2025

Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is widely acknowledged as an ocular complication of diabetes mellitus involving retinal inflammation and secondary neuro/microvascular degeneration. Müller glial cells play a crucial role in regulating retinal homeostasis and neuroinflammation within the retina. Farnesoid X nuclear receptor (FXR) has emerged as a potential regulator of metabolic homeostasis and inflammatory responses as a bile acid nuclear receptor. However, its precise role in DR remains unclear. In order to investigate the effect of FXR on DR, we employed Sprague‐Dawley rats treated with streptozotocin (STZ) and human Müller glial cells treated with advanced glycation end products (AGEs) or high glucose with palmitate (HG + PA). Our investigations revealed downregulation of FXR in DR. Furthermore, we demonstrated that activating FXR could mitigate the progression of DR, with its protective effects linked to the inhibition of inflammatory responses within Müller cells. Mechanistically, FXR could ameliorate mitochondrial dysfunction and suppress the opening of the mitochondrial permeability transition pore. This action blocked the release of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) from the mitochondria into the cytoplasm, thereby inhibiting the abnormal activation of the cGAS/STING pathway in DR. Further studies revealed that FXR upregulates mitochondrial transcription factor A (TFAM) by modulating ATF4/NRF1, ultimately enhancing mitochondrial function. Knockdown of FXR reversed the above effects. Additionally, FXR activation effectively rescued mitochondrial dysfunction, as evidenced by Tunicamycin (TUN)‐mediated assays, further validating our findings. In summary, our findings suggest that targeting FXR may offer promising strategies for future therapeutic interventions in the treatment of DR.
Fatigue Assessment of Precorroded AlSi9Cu3 Specimens Incorporating Short Crack Propagation
Authors: Oberreiter Peter , Schönowitz Markus , Maier Bernd , Grün Florian
Published: February 2025

This study investigates the fatigue behavior of AlSi9Cu3 aluminum die‐cast alloy after exposure to accelerated corrosive conditions. It underscores the significant impact of minor localized corrosion imperfections on fatigue strength and presents a numerically efficient method for fatigue assessment based on fracture mechanics principles. Fatigue tests under rotary bending load showed a 34% reduction in long‐life fatigue strength for precorroded surfaces compared to polished ones. Numerical simulations, which treated the precorrosion as a single crack‐like surface imperfections, provided good estimates of fatigue life, when using the mean corrosion depth as initial flaw depth. Variations in the assessed fatigue strengths for different flaw geometries and sizes ranged from 13.7% above to 22.2% below the experimental values. The findings underscore the importance of incorporating short crack propagation, particularly for small corrosive defects, in fatigue assessments to enhance accuracy and ensure component reliability and safety when corrosion‐induced imperfections are present.
Twenty‐First‐Century Environmental Change Decreases Habitat Overlap of Antarctic Toothfish (Dissostichus mawsoni) and Its Prey
Authors: Nissen Cara , Caccavo Jilda Alicia , Morée Anne L.
Published: February 2025

Antarctic toothfish are a commercially exploited upper‐level predator in the Southern Ocean. As many of its prey, the ectothermic, water‐breathing Antarctic toothfish is specifically adapted to the temperature and oxygen conditions present in the high‐latitude Southern Ocean. Additionally, the life cycle of Antarctic toothfish depends on sea‐ice dynamics and the transport of individuals by currents between regions with different prey. To assess the impact of 21st‐century climate change on potential interactions of Antarctic toothfish and its prey, we here employ the extended aerobic growth index (AGI), which quantifies the effect of ocean temperature and oxygen levels on the habitat viability of individual species. We quantify changes in predator–prey interactions by a change in viable habitat overlap as obtained with the AGI. As environmental data, we use future projections for four emission scenarios from the model FESOM‐REcoM, which is specifically designed for applications on and near the Antarctic continental shelf. For the two highest‐emission scenarios, we find that warming and deoxygenation in response to climate change cause a subsurface decline of up to 40% in viable habitat overlap of Antarctic toothfish with important prey species, such as Antarctic silverfish and icefish. Acknowledging regional differences, our results demonstrate that warming and deoxygenation alone can significantly perturb predator–prey habitat overlap in the Southern Ocean. Our findings highlight the need for a better quantitative understanding of climate change impacts on Antarctic species to better constrain future ecosystem impacts of climate change.
Protocol for a Field Trial of a Hearing and Vision Support Intervention for People Living in Long‐Term Care in Australia
Authors: Meyer Carly , El‐Saifi Najwan , Rose Naomi , Bail Kasia , Browning Colette , Cenin Dayna , Ahumada‐Canale Antonio , Campbell Megan , England Tim , Ferguson Melanie , Gu Yuanyuan , Harrison Reema , Heine Chyrisse , Keay Lisa , Kumaran Sheela , Leroi Iracema , Liew Gerald , Martini Angelita , Martins Ralph , Newall John , Raichand Smriti , Scanlan Emma , Sohrabi Hamid R. , Toomey Melinda , Westbrook Johanna , Dawes Piers
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Hearing and vision impairments are prevalent among residents in long‐term care settings. Hearing and vision impairments frequently go unsupported, affecting residents' quality of life and healthcare costs. This paper describes the protocol for a pre−post evaluation and process evaluation of a pragmatic sensory support intervention (SSI) that was developed with residents, informal caregivers and long‐term care workers.

Methods and Analysis

A prospective pre−post‐intervention trial within long‐term care will be conducted, including three groups: residents (n = 87), informal caregivers (n = 87) and long‐term care workers (n = 40). Outcome measures include health‐related quality of life and well‐being measures relevant to each group measured at baseline, 3‐ and 6‐months post‐intervention. Health resource and sensory device utilisation will be captured from routine data and by direct observation. Qualitative interviews, including a representative sample of residents and informal caregivers, will be conducted as part of a simultaneous process evaluation. Generalised linear models and paired t‐tests will be used to evaluate the effects on residents' and caregivers' quality of life and sensory device use. The cost‐effectiveness of the intervention will be examined using within‐trial analysis, economic modelling and budget impact assessment. A process evaluation will use descriptive statistics and thematic analysis to assess the intervention's reach, adoption, implementation, acceptability, mechanisms of change and contextual influences.

Conclusion

Hearing and vision impairments are common but under‐supported in older adults in long‐term care. This protocol involves a systematic evaluation of the effectiveness and implementation challenges of a pragmatic SSI to optimise hearing and vision function and improve the quality of life for long‐term care residents and their caregivers.
Extracellular matrix: Dystroglycan interactions—Roles for the dystrophin‐associated glycoprotein complex in skeletal tissue dynamics
Authors: Hopkinson Mark , Pitsillides Andrew A.
Published: February 2025

Contributions made by the dystrophin‐associated glycoprotein complex (DGC) to cell–cell and cell‐extracellular matrix (ECM) interactions are vital in development, homeostasis and pathobiology. This review explores how DGC functions may extend to skeletal pathophysiology by appraising the known roles of its major ECM ligands, and likely associated DGC signalling pathways, in regulating cartilage and bone cell behaviour and emergent skeletal phenotypes. These considerations will be contextualised by highlighting the potential of studies into the role of the DGC in isolated chondrocytes, osteoblasts and osteoclasts, and by fuller deliberation of skeletal phenotypes that may emerge in very young mice lacking vital, yet diverse core elements of the DGC. Our review points to roles for individual DGC components—including the glycosylation of dystroglycan itself—beyond the establishment of membrane stability which clearly accounts for severe muscle phenotypes in muscular dystrophy. It implies that the short stature, low bone mineral density, poor bone health and greater fracture risk in these patients, which has been attributed due to primary deficiencies in muscle‐evoked skeletal loading, may instead arise due to primary roles for the DGC in controlling skeletal tissue (re)modelling.
Magnetic and dielectric properties of bismuth‐containing high‐entropy garnet ferrites
Authors: Zhang Bixian , Yang Kai , Li Zhuohang , Jian Sihao , Ren Bei , Meng Ziqian , Tang Yinghui , Miao Yang
Published: February 2025

Yttrium iron garnet (YIG) ferrite is extensively utilized in microwave devices due to its exceptional fundamental electromagnetic properties and easily adjustable magnetic properties. In recent years, there has been a growing interest in investigating high‐entropy garnets. However, its dielectric properties have not been extensively studied. This study prepared a series of bismuth‐containing high‐entropy yttrium iron garnet ferrites (Bi0.6Gd0.6Ho0.6Y0.6Re0.6) Fe5O12 (Re = Dy, Er, Tm, Yb) using the solid‐phase reaction method. The addition of Bi3+ to the high‐entropy matrix resulted in a reduction of the optimal phase forming temperature of garnet from 1450°C to 1150°C. Despite the incorporation of Bi3+ with a relatively large ionic radius, no heterophase generation occurred, leading to the formation of a single garnet phase. These high‐entropy garnet samples exhibited unique magnetic properties along with high dielectric constants and low dielectric losses. Specifically, the dielectric constant (ε') of sample HEYIG‐4 is measured at 20.26, with a low dielectric loss of just 2.78 × 10−3, while the specific saturation magnetization reached 16.86 emu/g. This paper expanded research within the field of high‐entropy garnet ferrites.
The Motivational Impact of GenAI Tools in Language Learning: a Quasi‐Experiment Study
Authors: Renfeng Jiang , Gang Yang , Qi Shen
Published: February 2025

The evolution of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) technologies may have markedly influenced language learning. Through offering personalised support, GenAI‐driven chatbots have potentially transformed how learners engage with and sustain their motivation in learning languages. Drawing on self‐determination theory (SDT), this study explores the impact of using GenAI tools on the autonomous motivation of a group of Chinese university students learning English by examining how GenAI tool integration influences their basic psychological needs (BPN) of autonomy, competence and relatedness, and the development of their language motivation over a four‐month academic term. A quasi‐experimental design was employed for two groups (N = 355), with the experimental group incorporated GenAI tools into their learning routine, while the control group followed traditional classroom instruction. The structural model indicated a notable enhancement in the influence of Time 2 autonomy on Time 2 autonomous motivation, observed exclusively within the experimental group. The repeated measures ANOVA indicated that integrating GenAI tools significantly enhanced students’ autonomous motivation compared to traditional methods. The findings suggest that strategic implementation of GenAI tools can effectively boost motivation in language learning, offering valuable insights for the consideration of their use in the educational system.
Dual exsolution in silver‐functionalized layered and cubic perovskite oxides
Authors: Oseko Francis , Wachowski Sebastian , Miruszewski Tadeusz , Gazda Maria , Mielewczyk‐Gryń Aleksandra
Published: February 2025

In this work, exsolution is achieved from both the A‐site and B‐site of (BaGd0.8La0.2)1‐xAgxCo2O6‐δ and (BaLa)1‐xAgxCoFeO6‐δ (x = 0.04, 0.1, and 0.2) perovskites prepared via solid‐state sintering. Through synchrotron radiation powder X‐ray diffraction and X‐ray absorption spectroscopy techniques, the chemical composition of the nanoparticles was determined to constitute both Ag and CoO. Microstructural studies were done using scanning electron microscopy with varying sizes and shapes of nanoparticles present for respective annealing atmospheres and temperatures. By applying a numerical model to experimental data, it was also established that the changes in enthalpy for oxygen vacancy formation decrease with an increase in silver dopant. From thermogravimetric measurements, the single (BaLa)0.95Ag0.10CoFeO6‐δ perovskite had relatively higher water uptake than the layered (BaGd0.8La0.2)0.95Ag0.10Co2O6‐δ perovskite. The total electrical conductivity done in dry and wet conditions decreased with an increase in temperature in the range of 300–800°C for both layered and single perovskites. The results obtained from electrical conductivity relaxation measurements of (BaGd0.8La0.2)0.95Ag0.10Co2O6‐δ with nanoparticles exhibit increased oxygen reduction reaction activity than (BaLa)0.95Ag0.10CoFeO6‐δ with nanoparticles.
Mutuality and Quality of Life in Family Caregivers of Adults With Heart Failure: Multiple Mediation of Perceived Control and Resilience
Authors: Chen Cancan , Sun Xiaofei , Zhang Yanting , Zhao Qiuge , Kou Jie , Zhang Hongmei
Published: February 2025

Aims

This study aimed to determine the mediating roles of perceived control and resilience in the association between mutuality and quality of life (QoL) in caregivers of adults with heart failure.

Design

A multi‐centre cross‐sectional study.

Methods

We recruited 268 patient‐caregiver dyads with heart failure using convenience sample enrolled from four hospitals in Henan Province, China from March to December 2023. Caregivers' mutuality, perceived control, resilience and QoL were assessed. A multiple‐mediation model was tested using the PROCESS macro in SPSS.

Results

Caregivers' mental QoL positively correlated with mutuality, perceived control, and resilience. Caregivers' physical QoL was correlated with mutuality. Conversely, perceived control and resilience showed no significant correlation with physical QoL. Moreover, the association between mutuality and mental QoL was mediated by perceived control and resilience, respectively, and together in series, accounting for 32.3%, 14.1% and 28.2% of the total effect, respectively.

Conclusion

Perceived control and resilience mediated the link between mutuality and mental QoL in caregivers of adults with heart failure. Interventions targeted at strengthening perceived control and resilience may improve caregivers' mental QoL. Additionally, the mental QoL may be improved by indirectly enhancing mutuality among caregivers of adults with heart failure.

Impact

It is important to develop multimodal intervention strategies that combine perceived control and resilience to amplify the positive impact of mutuality on the mental QoL of caregivers in individuals with heart failure.

Reporting Method

The STROBE guideline was adopted to report this study.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.
Habitat Suitability of the Sand Lizard (Lacerta agilis) at Its Distribution Limit—An Analysis Based on Citizen Science Data and Machine Learning
Authors: Krämer Alina , Meyer Hanna , Buchholz Sascha
Published: February 2025

Aim

To inform evidence‐based conversation strategies this study aims to assess habitat suitability and connectivity for the Sand Lizard (Lacerta agilis) at its northwestern distribution limit by integrating remote sensing data, machine learning techniques, and citizen science contributions. Comprehending the population dynamics of the Sand Lizard Lacerta agilis is imperative for ensuring the preservation of metapopulations of this matrix‐sensitive species.

Location

NW‐Germany, Netherlands.

Methods

We integrated citizen science data from observation.org with multispectral Sentinel‐2 imagery and auxiliary spatial datasets, including soil types, vegetation indices, topographic features, and proximity to various habitat types. We trained Random Forests which were employed to predict habitat suitability across a region encompassing North Rhine‐Westphalia and Lower Saxony in Germany, as well as the Netherlands, at a 10‐m spatial resolution. Interpretable machine learning techniques were applied to identify key environmental drivers and corridor analysis was conducted to identify potential barriers to habitat colonisation.

Results

The ability of the model to predict habitat suitability was high (Area under the Curve = 0.935 + − 0.05). Thirty‐three parameters were identified as relevant habitat determinants, where the most important group of variables were associated with topography, solar irradiation and soil types. Urban structures, however, further emerged as relevant habitat parameters influencing habitat suitability. Connectivity was mainly provided by linear structures such as railway lines and roadsides.

Main Conclusion

Understanding habitat suitability and connectivity is critical for the effective preservation of metapopulations and the development of robust conservation strategies. Our study demonstrates how integrating remote sensing data with citizen science contributions can effectively be applied for habitat modelling, particularly over large geographical areas. Contrary to previous assumptions that peripheral populations, such as those at the northwestern limit of the Sand Lizard's distribution, may be more specialised, our findings reveal that these lizards exhibit considerable adaptability to a range of environmental conditions, including human‐altered landscapes. This adaptability challenges conventional views and underscores the importance of considering anthropogenic environments in conservation planning. By incorporating novel ecosystems and urban areas into species conservation plans, our study contributes to a more inclusive and effective framework for biodiversity conservation.
Predictors of Right Ventricular Pacing in Patients Undergoing Implantable Defibrillator Placement
Authors: Hummel James P. , Lan Zhou , Jones Paul W. , Khera Rohan , Stein Kenneth , Curtis Jeptha P. , Akar Joseph G.
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Identifying patients who will develop a need for right ventricular (RV) pacing after defibrillator (ICD) placement would help inform appropriate device selection, specifically to identify patients who might be more suitable for dual chamber or biventricular transvenous defibrillators versus single‐chamber or subcutaneous devices which do not provide pacing. We sought to determine predictors of RV pacing in patients who did not have a pacing indication at the time of initial ICD implant.

Methods

This observational study assessed single‐chamber ICD recipients implanted from 2006 to 2016 from Boston Scientific's ALTITUDE database and linked to the NCDR® ICD Registry. The study population (n = 11 044) of ICDs (programmed VVI mode at 40 bpm), and without a clinical indication for pacing. was randomly divided into training and validation cohorts (70/30) and characteristics associated with RV pacing were identified using logistic regression. The outcome was defined as the development of > 20% RV pacing averaged over any continuous 90‐day period within 24 months after the ICD implant.

Results

Patients who developed > 20% RV pacing (n = 148, 1.3%) had a higher likelihood of being older, male, and with a history of syncope, ventricular tachycardia or cardiac arrest, hypertension, previous or ongoing AF, and longer PR, QRS duration and BUN level (p < 0.01). After adjustment, PR > 230 ms, history of AF, ongoing AF at time of implant, history of VT or cardiac arrest, and age > 70 were independently associated with RV pacing.

Conclusions

This study provides insight into predictors of RV pacing in ICD recipients without pacing needs at baseline.
The Atrial Fibrillation Registry (The FLOW‐AF Registry): Insights From the United Arab Emirates—Patient Characteristics, Treatment, and One‐Year Outcomes
Authors: El Kadri Moutaz , AlMuti Khalid , Agrawal Amrish , Bazargani Nooshin , Gamaleldin Mohamed Fathy Soliman , Ahmed Haytham Mohamed , Hassanain Omneya , Khalife Natasha , Radaideh Ghazi , Magdy Mohamed , Almahmeed Wael A.
Published: February 2025

Background

The epidemiological landscape and treatment efficacy of atrial fibrillation (AF) in the Middle East, notably in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), remain under‐explored, presenting a distinct demographic and clinical pattern compared to Western populations. The FLOW‐AF Registry aimed to bridge this knowledge gap by examining the characteristics, treatment patterns, clinical outcomes, and healthcare resource utilization (HCRU) of newly diagnosed non‐valvular atrial fibrillation (NVAF) patients in the UAE, contributing to the scant literature on NVAF management in the region.

Methods

This multicenter, prospective observational study enrolled patients diagnosed with NVAF across six sites in the UAE. Data were collected on demographics, medical history, treatment decisions, clinical outcomes, and HCRU over a 12‐month observation period.

Results

A total of 198 patients were enrolled, with a mean age of 63.44 years. Mean CHA₂DS₂‐VASc and HAS‐BLED scores at baseline were 2.95 and 1.76, respectively. Most patients (55.77%) were prescribed non‐vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulants (NOACs). One‐year incidence rates for major clinical events were 6.7% for all‐cause mortality, 2.8% for bleeding complications, and 0.6% for myocardial infarction. No strokes were reported during the study period.

Conclusion

The FLOW‐AF Registry provides valuable insights into NVAF management in the UAE, demonstrating a distinct patient profile and a preference for NOACs. The NVAF cohort in the UAE was characterized by a younger demographic with lower risk scores and lower rate of clinical events relative to global counterparts. The findings underscore the evolving approach to AF management in the UAE, suggestive of a shift towards NOAC use but also highlights the need for ongoing research to fully understand long‐term outcomes and validate current treatment paradigms in the UAE.
Impact of Hyperuricemia on Incident Hypertension When Hypertension Definition Changes From 140/90 to 130/80 mmHg in a Large Taiwanese Population Follow‐Up Study
Authors: Liu Yi‐Hsueh , Su Wei‐Yu , Lin Chih‐Yi , Tsai Chun‐Chi , Su Ho‐Ming , Chen Szu‐Chia
Published: February 2025

A lower blood pressure threshold (≥130/80 mmHg) to define hypertension has been proposed in several hypertension guidelines. This study assessed the relationship between hyperuricemia and incident hypertension, examining serum uric acid (SUA) cut‐offs using both traditional and new definitions in a large Taiwanese cohort. This observational cohort study enrolled 26 973 participants from the Taiwan Biobank (TWB), followed for a median of 4 years. Regarding traditional definition (140/90 mmHg), hyperuricemia (odds ratio [OR], 1.297), quartile 3 of SUA (OR, 1.211), quartile 4 of SUA (OR, 1.495), and high SUA (OR, 1.127) were significantly associated with incident hypertension in males, and hyperuricemia (OR, 1.198), quartile 4 of SUA (OR, 1.359), and high SUA (OR, 1.099) were significantly associated with incident hypertension in females. As for new definition (130/80 mmHg), hyperuricemia (OR, 1.376), quartile 3 of SUA (OR, 1.229), quartile 4 of SUA (OR, 1.554), and high SUA (OR, 1.139) were associated with incident hypertension in males, and hyperuricemia (OR, 1.249), quartile 3 of SUA (OR, 1.253), quartile 4 of SUA (OR, 1.429), and high SUA (OR, 1.096) were associated with incident hypertension in females. The interaction between hyperuricemia and sex on incident hypertension was significant for both traditional (140/90, p < 0.001) and new (130/80, p = 0.001) definitions. Hyperuricemia was significantly associated with incident hypertension under both traditional and new definitions. A significant interaction between hyperuricemia and sex was noted, although the differences were not so great.