bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Conceptual Analysis of Technology Usage and Work–Family Interface Among Millennials in India
Authors: Dash Sasmita
Published: February 2025

Executive Summary

Technology usage and its derogatory impact on employees give the impression of a new pandemic globally. In addition, having employees from multiple generations in the same workforce has turned the situation even more complex. The available literature on generational cohorts has predominantly looked at the lives in the Western world. However, Dr Twenge highlighted that the generational psyche has been influenced by the concurrent social–economic and cultural changes that took place during the childhood of that generation. Undoubtedly, India as a society has gone through a significant shift in this context since the 1980s, different from the changes happening in the Western world at the same time. In this article, I have tried to highlight these changes and connect them with the work–family ideologies and technology usage of the current dominant generation, the ‘millennial’ in the workforce. Different genders might have developed differing work–family values even when belonging to the same generational cohort. This article gives a well-developed mediation and moderation model to understand how different generational cohorts would experience the work–family conflict mediated by perceived digital overuse (PDO), which is an outcome of technology usage mostly ‘smartphones and internet’. Gender has been highlighted as a crucial moderator in the model, like female employees might be more ready to take advantage of this phenomenon of technology usage than male employees. The efforts recovery theory ( Meijman & Mulder, 1998 ) and the conservation of resources theory ( Hobfoll, 1989 ) have contributed to this model formulation. This article will be very helpful in comprehending the work and non-work needs of different generational cohorts, mostly the dominant cohort ‘millennial’, along with a gender component in it, in deciding the work–family policy formulation.
Initial Efficacy of a Decimal Vocabulary Intervention for Students With Mathematics Difficulty in Grade 5
Authors: Zeng Xiaochong , Lin Xin
Published: February 2025

The purpose of this study was to determine the initial efficacy of a decimal vocabulary intervention for Grade 5 students with mathematics difficulty (MD) and to explore its impact on decimal arithmetic performance. We employed a nonconcurrent multiple-baseline, single-case research design to evaluate the effect of the intervention. Five fifth-grade students experiencing MD participated in the study and the intervention occurred 25 min per session over a total of 10 sessions. Visual analysis demonstrated that the decimal vocabulary intervention significantly enhanced both decimal vocabulary and decimal arithmetic performance, and these improvements sustained 3 weeks after the intervention. Findings suggested that students with MD could acquire decimal vocabulary through a brief intervention and retain the knowledge even after the intervention ended. Moreover, improved decimal vocabulary knowledge may positively affect their decimal arithmetic performance.
Aggression and Victimization Among Employees in Departments of Social Services in Israel
Authors: Hadar Keren , Tzafrir Shay S. , Enosh Guy
Published: February 2025

This study examined whether employee stances of hostile attribution, perceived hostile climate, attitudes toward aggression, subjective norms, and perceived control affected workplace aggression and victimization in departments of social services. We also explored differences in workplace aggression and victimization in social services in Israel and compared departments of social services of mixed and nonmixed cities (Arabs and Jews). A sample of 470 social workers employed by social services in Israel completed self-report measures. We used regression analysis to explore levels of aggression and victimization in general and specifically within social services departments in both mixed and nonmixed cities. We also investigated the differences in workplace aggression and victimization between these departments. Stances related to both aggression and victimization were perceived control and perceived hostile climate. No statistically significant differences were found in aggression or victimization levels between mixed and nonmixed cities. However, the relationship between hostile climate and victimization was found to be weaker in mixed cities than in nonmixed cities, suggesting a more complex interaction of organizational climate in different urban contexts. This study shed light on similar stances between aggression and victimization and explicated the phenomenon of workplace aggression using two important aspects of aggression and victimization. Furthermore, the study revealed important differences in victimization patterns between mixed and nonmixed cities’ social services departments, particularly regarding the role of hostile climate in these different settings.
Local Limit Theorem for Complex-Valued Sequences
Authors: Coeuret Lucas
Published: February 2025

In this article, we study the pointwise asymptotic behavior of iterated convolutions on the one-dimensional lattice [Formula: see text]. We generalize the so-called local limit theorem in probability theory to complex-valued sequences. A sharp rate of convergence toward an explicitly computable attractor is proved together with a generalized Gaussian bound for the asymptotic expansion up to any order of the iterated convolution.
The Effect of Intermittent Theta Burst Stimulation for Post-Stroke Lower Limb Motor Recovery: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Su Xinyi , Zheng Beisi , Huang Haiping , Chen Shishi , Cao Manting , Chen Jianer
Published: February 2025

Background

Intermittent theta burst stimulation (iTBS) appears to be a potential intervention for enhancing motor recovery in post-stroke. However, the optimal parameters of iTBS protocol for lower limb dysfunction is ambiguous.

Objective

To evaluate the efficacy of iTBS in treating lower limb motor impairment after stroke and to explore the optimal stimulation parameters.

Methods

Relevant randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were retrieved from seven databases from their inception to May 2024. We defined primary outcomes as Fugl-Meyer Assessment for Lower Extremity (FMA-LE) and Berg Balance Scale (BBS). Subgroup analyses included stroke stage, stimulation sites, dosages and treatment sessions.

Results

The study results indicated that compared with the sham iTBS group, the iTBS group showed a significant improvement in lower limb motor recovery, balance, gait and activity of daily living (ADL). No significant effect was found in the Motor Evoked Potential amplitude. Subgroup analysis demonstrated that cerebellar iTBS had a therapeutic effect on subacute stroke patients. Furthermore, administrating 1200 pulses per session for a minimum of 15 sessions of iTBS intervention could significantly improve the balance and ADL performance.

Conclusion

iTBS could enhance lower limb motor function, improving the quality of life in subacute stroke patients with relatively high safety. Systematic review registration: CRD42024549603
Developing a Prognostic Model for Intrahepatic Cholangiocarcinoma Patients With Elevated Preoperative Carbohydrate Antigen 19-9 Levels: Volume-Adjusted CA19-9 (VACA) as a Novel Biomarker
Authors: Liu Bo , Wang Sheng , Wen Tao , Qiu Haizhou , Xiang Lei , Huang Zuotian , Wu Hong , Li Dewei , Li Hui
Published: February 2025

Purpose

The predictive sensitivity of carbohydrate antigen 19-9 (CA19-9) in assessing the prognosis of intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC) remains inadequate. Integrating CA19-9 with tumor volume offers a potentially viable strategy for improving prognostic accuracy. This study aimed to develop a prognostic model utilizing volume-adjusted CA19-9 (VACA) for ICC patients.

Patients and Methods

A retrospective analysis was conducted on data from 436 ICC patients. These patients from two centers were divided into the training (n = 291, Center 1) and validation (n = 145, Center 2) cohorts. Using the training cohort, univariate and multivariable Cox regression analyses were employed to identify clinicopathological characteristics significantly associated with overall survival (OS) and recurrence-free survival (RFS), which enabled the construction of prognostic nomograms both with and without VACA. The nomograms’ discriminatory and calibration abilities were assessed using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves, decision curve analysis (DCA) curves, and calibration curves, applying both training and validation cohorts.

Results

VACA emerged as an independent variable that significantly correlated with prognosis. The nomogram incorporating VACA demonstrated superior accuracy in predicting OS and RFS rates compared to the model without VACA. In the validation cohort, the nomogram with VACA yielded area under the ROC curve (AUC) values of 0.695 (95% CI = 0.597∼0.793) and 0.666 (95% CI = 0.559∼0.773) (1- year), 0.662 (95% CI = 0.518∼0.806) and 0.651 (95% CI = 0.446∼0.857) (3- years), and 0.701 (95% CI = 0.486∼0.916) and 0.703 (95% CI = 0.428∼0.978) (5- years) for OS and RFS, respectively, along with improved calibration and DCA curves.

Conclusions

VACA, formed by integrating tumor volume with CA19-9, exhibits promising prognostic capabilities. The nomogram incorporating data from two centers and utilizing VACA demonstrates robust prognostic performance and holds clinical utility.

Condensed abstract

Combining CA19-9 with tumor volume presents a potentially viable strategy for improving prognostic accuracy. The nomogram incorporating VACA demonstrates robust prognostic performance and holds clinical utility.
Access to healthcare for people with intellectual disability: a scoping review
Authors: Barrington Maryann , Fisher Karen R. , Harris-Roxas Ben , Spooner Catherine , Trollor Julian N. , Weise Janelle
Published: February 2025

Aims:

People with intellectual disability experience stark health inequalities, often because of poor access to mainstream healthcare. This scoping review aimed to identify factors that influence access to healthcare for people with intellectual disability using Levesque and colleagues’ comprehensive framework of healthcare access.

Method:

This review followed Joanna Briggs Institute guidelines. Articles were identified and retrieved from CINAHL, PsycINFO, PubMed and EMBASE. Two reviewers completed abstract and full-text screening, addressing any conflicts at each stage. Data was extracted and coded deductively, according to the supply (healthcare provider) and demand (healthcare seeker) dimensions of Levesque and colleagues’ framework.

Results:

Following search and screening, 66 references were included for review. Barriers to healthcare were more frequently identified in the literature compared to facilitators, with most information relating to supply-side dimensions. Barriers were related to inaccessible health information, low health literacy, stigma and discrimination by healthcare providers, and lack of organisational support, training and resourcing in both healthcare and support sectors. Facilitators often involved specialist workforces, strong interpersonal skills among healthcare providers, and advocacy from supporters. Importantly, findings indicated that both sociohistorical processes and support networks are necessary to understanding access experiences for people with intellectual disability.

Conclusions:

Greater efforts are required internationally to ensure the health rights of people with intellectual disability, to eliminate discrimination, and provide the support and resources necessary for all stakeholders to facilitate healthcare access. Models of healthcare access for people with intellectual disability should consider both the role of supporters and the sociohistorical context within which healthcare access occurs.
The Effectiveness of Diabetic Foot Wound Prevention Training Given with Pecha Kucha (20*20) Presentation Technique: A Randomized Controlled
Authors: Dincer Berna , Kocali Ceren , Elveren Tuba , Demir Serdar , Demir Kemal , Dolu Fatoş Nimet , Feyizoğlu Güneş
Published: February 2025

This study aimed to evaluate the impact of diabetic foot care training delivered using the Pecha Kucha (20*20) presentation method on the knowledge, self-efficacy, and behavior levels of patients with Type 2 diabetes. Conducted between December 10, 2023, and October 7, 2024, this randomized controlled experimental study included 125 diabetic individuals, with 62 in the experimental group and 63 in the control group. The experimental group received diabetic foot care education using the Pecha Kucha method, while the control group received conventional education. Data were collected using the Patient Assessment Form, Diabetes Foot Knowledge Questionnaire, Diabetic Foot Care Self-Efficacy Scale, and Foot Self-Care Behavior Scale. Statistical analyses revealed that the experimental group demonstrated significantly higher scores in knowledge and self-efficacy compared to the control group (p < 0.001), while no significant difference was found in self-care behavior scores (p > 0.05). The results suggest that the Pecha Kucha method effectively enhances diabetic individuals’ knowledge and self-efficacy regarding foot care. However, further research is needed to explore its long-term impact on behavior changes. The study was registered in Clinical Trials ( https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT06768645 ) with the registration number of “NCT06768645”.
Early Phase Multiple Sclerosis Patients Present Substantial Deficits in Physical-, Cognitive-, and Patient-reported Outcomes Compared to Matched Healthy Controls
Authors: Thrue Cecilie , Hvid Lars G. , Diechmann Mette , Gaemelke Tobias , Stenager Egon , Dalgas Ulrik , Riemenschneider Morten
Published: February 2025

Background

Early identification of potential deficits is of utmost importance as early diagnosis and early treatment has been shown to be crucial to reduce disease activity and disease impact—leading to the notion of “Time matters” in multiple sclerosis (MS).

Objective

The aim of the present study was to compare physical-, cognitive-, and patient-reported outcomes in early phase MS patients with matched healthy controls (HC).

Methods

This cross-sectional study included 84 patients early in the disease course of MS (≤2 years from diagnosis) and 84 age- and sex-matched HC. All participants underwent a comprehensive test battery including physical-, cognitive-, and patient-reported outcomes.

Results

Relative deficits for patients with MS compared to HC corresponded to 7% to 35% in walking capacity (Timed 25-Foot Walk Test, 6 Spot Step Test, 6 Minute Walk Test), 5% for upper limb function (9 Hole Peg Test), 27% for aerobic capacity (maximal oxygen uptake), 17% to 38% for physical activity level (Baecke Sport Index and accelerometer counts/minute), 68% for fatigability (Walking Fatigability Index), 150% for fatigue (Modified Fatigue Impact Scale), 4% to 20% for cognitive function (Symbol Digit Modalities Test, Paced Auditory Serial Addition Test, and Selective Reminding Test), and lastly, 7% to 8% for quality of life (Short Form-36 health survey). Only the Symbol Digit Modalities Test and Selective Reminding Test Delayed did not differ between groups, statistically.

Conclusion

Early phase MS patients present substantial deficits in physical-, cognitive-, and patient-reported outcomes compared to HC. These early impairments highlight the importance of early initiatives aimed at preserving and/or building of reserve capacity.
Urticarial reaction to low molecular weight heparin injections
Authors: Hill Amanda , Williams Charlotte , Finucane Katherine , Carson Naomi , Neuberger Francesca , Xie Fangyi
Published: February 2025

Low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) is a common agent given in pregnancy; however, cutaneous drug reactions with its use in pregnancy are rarely reported. The case describes a 30-year-old woman with stable Crohn's disease on ustekinumab presenting with a rash at prophylactic LMWH injection sites 30 weeks into her third pregnancy. Skin biopsy reported appearance consistent with an urticarial drug hypersensitivity reaction. A combination of steroid treatment, topical emollient and cessation of LMWH resulted in resolution of symptoms over 2 weeks. Postnatal venous thromboembolism prophylaxis with fondaparinux was uncomplicated. Overall, this case highlights the importance of reporting drug reactions in pregnancy. It additionally exposes a gap in research surrounding immunomodulators and heparins in the development of cutaneous reactions in pregnancy.
Improving reliability of movement assessment in Parkinson's disease using computer vision-based automated severity estimation
Authors: Xu Jinyu , Xu Xin , Guo Xudong , Li Zezhi , Dong Boya , Qi Chen , Yang Chunhui , Zhou Dong , Wang Jiali , Song Lu , He Ping , Kong Shanshan , Zheng Shuchang , Fu Sichao , Xie Wei , Liu Xuan , Cao Ya , Liu Yilin , Qiu Yiqing , Zheng Zhiyuan , Yang Fei , Gan Jing , Wu Xi
Published: February 2025

Background

Clinical assessments of motor symptoms rely on observations and subjective judgments against standardized scales, leading to variability due to confounders. Improving inter-rater agreement is essential for effective disease management.

Objective

We developed an objective rating system for Parkinson's disease (PD) that integrates computer vision (CV) and machine learning to correct potential discrepancies among raters while providing the basis for model performance to gain professional acceptance.

Methods

A prospective PD cohort (n = 128) were recruited from multi-centers. Motor examination videos were recorded using an android tablet with CV-based software following the MDS-UPDRS Part-III instructions. Videos included facial, upper- and lower-limb movements, arising from a chair, standing, and walking. Fifteen certified clinicians were recruited from multi-centers. For each video, five clinicians were randomly selected to independently rate the severity of motor symptoms, validate the videos and movement variables (MovVars). Machine learning algorithms were applied for automated rating and feature importance analysis. Inter-rater agreement among human raters and the agreement between artificial intelligence (AI)-generated ratings and expert consensus were calculated.

Results

For all validated videos (n = 1024), AI-based ratings showed an average absolute accuracy of 69.63% and an average acceptable accuracy of 98.78% against the clinician consensus. The mean absolute error between the AI-based scores and clinician consensus was 0.32, outperforming the inter-rater variability (0.65), potentially due to the combined utilization of diverse MovVars.

Conclusions

The algorithm enabled accurate video-based evaluation of mild motor symptom severity. AI-assisted assessment improved the inter-rater agreement, demonstrating the practical value of CV-based tools in screening, diagnosing, and treating movement disorders.
I Hear America Singing (Originally) by Walt Whitman: A Classic Poem Hijacked (Which is to Say, we’re Adding Those Whose American Carols Have Been Historically Excluded)
Authors: Saldaña René , Horstman Brian
Published: February 2025

This collaborative autoethnographic poem served as the introductory assignment for a graduate course called Freire and American Education. Students were scheduled to read Walt Whitman’s “I Hear America Singing,” to consider carefully how the poet was redefining “America” and by default the “American,” taking note of how Whitman meant his poem to change the trajectory of how the Great Experiment should from that point forward unfold. We were studying Freire in the U.S., though, and so the scope of “America/American” as it pertained to the class was limited: “How do U.S. educators make do with him?” In response to Horstman's question, Saldaña admitted that he’d originally intended for us to explore how Freire and Macedo (1987) theories on education could fit (or not fit) education and educators in the U.S. This brief discussion led to a similarly important question: “How do we mean American in the U.S.? Who makes the cut, and who doesn’t? Who decides?” The challenge for the class: “As we go about our daily lives, who do we know continues to be ignored? Who erased? Who discarded?” In this sense, we sought, like Whitman, to witness and to testify both.
Equipping School Counselors to Support Youth Experiencing Homelessness
Authors: Havlik Stacey
Published: February 2025

This exploratory study examined the effectiveness of online training about homelessness and education designed for school counseling students. Before and after completing the online modules, participants completed pre- and post-test surveys and answered open-ended questions concerning their knowledge and preparation related to working with students experiencing homelessness. Results indicated that participating in the training was significantly associated with higher levels of knowledge and stronger perceptions of knowledge and preparation about homelessness. The participants described the training as informative and valuable. The results of this study suggest that online training on homelessness is a valuable assignment for preservice school counselors that can enhance their knowledge and preparation.
Eco-Friendly Thickening Agent for Cotton Fabric Reactive Dye Printing
Authors: Nuru Ahmed Mohammed , Ahmmed Abdella Simegnaw , Gudayu Adane Dagnaw
Published: February 2025

The textile printing process’s use of artificial thickeners has a number of detrimental effects on the environment. Researchers use starch-based thickeners, which are the most popular natural thickeners for cotton printing due to their availability and low cost. However, the use of native starch-based thickenera is not recommended for reactive printing due to the presence of many accessible hydroxyl groups. Here, the main aim of this study has been the extraction of protein-based thickener derived from trimmed fleshing waste of animal hide for better colour fastness properties of reactive dye print on cotton. The physicochemical properties and the application of this thickener with sodium alginate in different proportions were studied. In addition, after printing was performed on the cotton fabric, the physical and mechanical properties of the printed fabric were evaluated. The results show that the properties of the printed fabric, namely, overall fastness and softness, are dependent on the percentage of gelatin thickener. Moreover, the analytical result showed that the colour strengths and colour fastness properties of printed cotton fabric were enhanced. Therefore, the developed protein-based gelatin is suitable to be applied as a sustainable, eco-friendly thickening agent for the application of reactive dye printing on textiles.
Research Progress of New Bulletproof Composite Materials: A Review
Authors: Zhu Kai , Liu Shengdong , Zhang Weitian , Yao Gaozheng , Guo Binhao , Shi Jiaan , Yang Dan , Li Jinchun
Published: February 2025

Based on the current development and application background of bulletproof impact materials, this article mainly introduces the classification of new bulletproof composites. According to the different structural materials, it can be mainly divided into hard and soft composites, as well as soft and hard complex bulletproof composites. The bulletproof mechanism and advantages of these three types of bulletproof composites and new liquid bulletproof composites are discussed. Then, the main factors affecting the bulletproof performance of aramid fiber composites, ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene fiber composites, and shear thickening fluid/high-performance fiber composites of new liquid bulletproof materials were analyzed. Finally, common bulletproof standards at home and abroad were listed and compared.
Releasing Mechanism of Negative Ions of Impregnated Cotton Fabric
Authors: Huang Dan , Chen Zhuoming , Xin Binjie , Si SuQiu , Liu Xunlin , All Amin Newton Md , Wu Xiaoyan
Published: February 2025

In order to enhance the performance of cotton textiles in generating negative ions (NAI), germanium and pearl powder were utilized as additives, employing a straightforward “ultrasonic impregnation and drying” method to functionalize the cotton fabric surface. For practical application, a functional silane coupling agent (KH-560) was used to modify the fabric’s surface, thereby improving the binding force between the fabric and the functional powders. The study examined the morphology of the functional cotton fabric, NAIs release into the air, thermal stability, and moisture absorption capabilities. Experimental results demonstrated a significant enhancement in NAIs release performance, with a 15-fold increase compared to untreated cotton fabric when functional powders were added. Incorporating germanium powder led to a 2.3-fold augmentation in pearl NAI release, effectively addressing the low pearl NAI release issue. Additionally, the presence of pearl powder, when combined with germanium powder, synergistically enhanced moisture absorption and thermal stability performance, surpassing those of control samples. The developed functional cotton fabric exhibits significant potential for applications in household, healthcare, and clothing textiles, marking a promising advancement in textile functionalization for enhanced performance.
Investigation into WECM of nitinol SMA using ozonated NaNO3 electrolyte
Authors: Besekar Naresh , Bhattacharyya B.
Published: February 2025

Wire electrochemical machining (WECM) was developed to address micromachining issues as a result of technological improvement. Ozone (O3) is enhanced to increase its oxidizing capability, corrosive behavior, and overall machining performance in basic aqueous neutral electrolytes. In order to improve machining performance, this article elaborates on the effect of ozonated aqueous solution of NaNO3 in the WECM for nitinol shape memory alloy (SMA). The superiority of machined microgrooves is tested for surface topography, dimensional accuracy, and homogeneity. The experiments were conducted using a 1 mm thick nitinol specimen and 50 µm smooth cylindrical tungsten wire as an electrode. Output responses were measured, and fabricated microgroove parameters were cautiously examined under an optical microscope and coherent correlation interferometer (CCI) profilometer for their dimensions, that is average width mean depth and surface roughness (Ra), and graphs were plotted to understand the effect of ozonated NaNO3 electrolyte with different electrolyte concentration and pulse voltages in comparison to non-ozonated NaNO3 electrolyte. The minimum average Ra of 0.1542 µm has been obtained using 0.2 M NaNO3 ozonated electrolyte at 5V pulse voltage compared to Ra of 0.3857 µm using non-ozonated electrolyte. It shows more than 60% improvement in the surface quality of nitinol using 0.2 M NaNO3 ozonated electrolyte. Further, the width overcut has been reduced to a great extent with an improvement of groove depth by more than 50% using ozonated electrolytes compared to non-ozonated NaNO3 electrolytes showing expeditiously removal of sludge and dissolved products and increased efficacy of dissolution than non-ozonated electrolytes. Also, the homogeneous microslit of 124 µm average slit width has been successfully fabricated using the ozonated electrolyte.
Bilateral Testicular Rupture Progression Status Post Blunt Trauma: A Case Report
Authors: Oenes Azlyn
Published: February 2025

A bilateral testicular rupture is an injury to both testicles, due to blunt trauma that results in a disruption of the tunica albuginea layer. It results in the testicular contents to no longer be contained. Early identification is necessary to determine the extent of testicular injury, to potentially salvage the testicles. This case study demonstrates how imperative sonography is prior to diagnosis and after surgical intervention, for bilateral testicular rupture. Sonography can be used to identify key imaging findings and characteristics in patients with scrotal trauma.
Phenotyping the Responses to Systemic Corticosteroids in the Management of Asthma Attacks (PRISMA)
Authors: Celis-Preciado Carlos , Leclerc Simon , Duval Martine , Cliche Dominic O. , Brazeau Lucie , Vézina Félix-Antoine , Dussault Marylène , Larivée Pierre , Lemaire-Paquette Samuel , Lévesque Simon , Lachapelle Philippe , Couillard Simon
Published: February 2025

Background

Asthma attacks are heterogeneous. It is not known whether the response to oral corticosteroids (OCS) in acute asthma varies according to type-2 (T2) inflammatory biomarkers, blood eosinophil count (BEC) and exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO). We aim to explore the relationship between T2 biomarkers and response to OCS in acute asthma.

Methods

We conducted a longitudinal observational study of people experiencing an asthma attack evaluated before and after a 7-day OCS course. The primary outcome was post-bronchodilator (BD) FEV1change according to ordinal BEC-FeNO 3-group categories (T2-Low/Low, BEC <0.15×109 cells·L−1and FeNO <25 ppb; T2-High/High, BEC ≥0.30×109 cells·L−1and FeNO ≥35 ppb and T2-Mid, not meeting Low/Low-High/High criteria). A key secondary outcome was the Asthma Control Questionnaire (ACQ-5) change. Exploratory outcomes included OCS-attributable adverse events.

Results

Fifty-three people were enrolled with 16 (30%) T2-Low/Low, 27 (51%) T2-Mid and 10 (19%) T2-High/High asthma attacks. Post-BD FEV1changes increased with combined BEC-FeNO elevation (p-for-interaction=0.007), peaking in the T2-High/High phenotype (0.390±0.512L, p-for-trend<0.0001). Conversely, T2-Low/Low attacked achieved nonsignificant FEV1changes (0.017±0.153L). In univariable and multivariable analyses, only ordinal BEC-FeNO stratification – not symptoms nor FEV1– was a predictor of subsequent post-BD FEV1improvement. All patients improved ACQ-5, numerically peaking in the T2-High/High phenotype (−1.58±0.60, p-for-trend=0.08). All groups experienced similar OCS-attributable adverse events, with n=33 (62%) participants reporting ≥1 event.

Conclusions

We found that objective improvement following OCS is confined to T2-High/High events. As in chronic asthma, greater T2 burden identifies a distinct clinical and therapeutic trajectory, whereas OCS-related adverse events are uniformly distributed.
Latent tuberculosis infection screening of adult close contacts: a cost-utility analysis
Authors: Green Nathan , Manalan Kavina , Hayama Manabu , O'Donoghue Marie , Seneviratne Suranjith , Drey Nicholas , Kon Onn Min
Published: February 2025

Background

The 2016 National Institute for Health and Care Excellence guidelines recommended the tuberculin skin test (TST), at a 5-mm induration size cut-off, for the diagnosis of latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) among adult close contacts of active tuberculosis (TB) cases. This study analysed a well characterised cohort of adult close contacts in London and assess the cost-effectiveness of LTBI screening strategies with combinations of TST and interferon-gamma release assays (IGRAs) in a decision-analytic model.

Methods

Close contacts of pulmonary TB cases who were tested with TST and IGRA between January 2008 and December 2010 were retrospectively reviewed. Using a NHS perspective and lifetime horizon, a decision-analytic Markov model was used to compare costs and quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) associated with five screening strategies followed by LTBI treatment: TST alone, IGRA (QuantiFERON-TB Gold In-Tube [QFT] or T-SPOT.TB [T-SPOT]) alone, and TST positive followed by IGRA.

Results

This study included 381 asymptomatic close contacts aged 18 to 65 years (mean 35.2 (sd: 11.3)). 75.3% had received BCG vaccination. Among the five strategies, for a willingness to pay threshold of £25 000 and using incremental net monetary benefit (INMB) with TST as comparator, the IGRA alone strategies were the most cost-effective, marginally QFT over T-SPOT (QFT £214; T-SPOT £199).

Conclusion

Single-step IGRA, particularly QuantiFERON, is preferable for LTBI screening of adult close contacts of pulmonary TB cases.
Risk assessment of hyperbilirubinemia using a three-factor model after cardiac surgery
Authors: Lin Weibin , Chen Bin , Yang Kevin , Kuang Liting
Published: February 2025

Background

Hyperbilirubinemia (HB) is a common occurrence after cardiopulmonary bypass and often results in increased rates of complications.

Methods

We conducted a study on 411 patients who underwent cardiac surgery with extracorporeal circulation and divided them into a training set and a validation set. Least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression was employed to screen out variables. Multivariate logistic regression was subsequently applied to establish prediction models, which were then evaluated using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves and calibration plots. Finally, restricted cubic splines (RCSs) curve pairs were used to calculate the adjusted ORs for each independent risk factor.

Results

A clinical prediction model based on preoperative bilirubin elevation, aortic clamp time and intraoperative red blood cell (RBC) transfusion was successfully developed. The model presented an ROC of 0.855 (0.808, 0.901) in the training set. The validation set demonstrated a promising ROC of 0.839 (0.761, 0.917), and the calibration curve closely approximated the true incidence. The risk of postoperative HB was increased when the aortic clamp time was greater than 133 min, when the red blood transfusion volume was greater than 275 ml or when the preoperative total bilirubin concentration was greater than 16.65 mol/L.

Conclusion

In this study, the aortic clamp time was identified as a crucial factor for postoperative HB during cardiac surgery. A three-factor prediction model that includes the aortic clamp time for the prediction of HB after cardiac surgery was successfully established. Furthermore, patients with hyperbilirubinemia post-surgery had a worse short-term prognosis.
Oral health knowledge, attitude and practices of Bangladeshi female sex workers toward their 7-to-17-years old children: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Khan Afia Mahmuda , Eusufzai Sumaiya Zabin , Farook Taseef Hasan , Sharmin Mehnaj , Shohid Sabrin , Shahed Lameea , Zerin Tabassum , Chanda Diptendu Kumar , Hossain Sheikh Jamal , Hawlader Mohammad Delwer Hossain
Published: February 2025

Background

Children born into prostitution often face significant barriers in accessing healthcare, including oral health services. This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of female sex workers (FSWs) regarding their school-going children’s oral health, as well as the oral health status of these children in Dhaka, Bangladesh.

Materials and methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted from March 2023 to February 2024 with a sample of 180 FSW mothers/institutional caregivers and their school-going children between ages 7 to 17. A semi-structured questionnaire was used to collect data on KAP. The children’s oral health was assessed using the DMFT/dmft index for caries and the gingival index (GI) for gingival health, while plaque and calculus levels were measured using the plaque index (PI) and calculus index (CI), respectively.

Results

Among the FSW mothers/ institutional caregivers, 79% had good knowledge of oral health, 77.2% displayed a positive attitude, and 62.8% were informed about proper oral health practices. FSW mothers/ institutional caregivers who had higher educational attainment were three times more likely to practice good oral hygiene compared to those with lower-educated caregivers (OR = 3.27, β = 1.11, p < 0.05, CI = 1.36–7.87). Similarly, children whose mothers/caregivers had better oral health knowledge showed three times higher oral health practice scores compared to those with lower knowledge (OR = 3.20, β = 1.16, p < 0.05, CI = 1.36–7.87).

Conclusion

The study suggests that while most FSW mothers and institutional caregivers possess adequate knowledge and a positive attitude towards their children’s oral health, many children, particularly those living with FSW mothers, continue to exhibit poor oral health practices. Higher educational attainment and better oral health knowledge among mothers/caregivers were key determinants of improved oral health practices in children.
Disruption of mitochondrial homeostasis and permeability transition pore opening in OPA1 iPSC-derived retinal ganglion cells
Authors: Whitehead Michael , Harvey Joshua P. , Sladen Paul E. , Becchi Giada , Singh Kritarth , Sun Yujiao Jennifer , Burgoyne Thomas , Duchen Michael R. , Yu-Wai-Man Patrick , Cheetham Michael E.
Published: February 2025

Dominant optic atrophy (DOA) is the most common inherited optic neuropathy, characterised by the selective loss of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs). Over 60% of DOA cases are caused by pathogenic variants in the OPA1 gene, which encodes a dynamin-related GTPase protein. OPA1 plays a key role in the maintenance of the mitochondrial network, mitochondrial DNA integrity and bioenergetic function. However, our current understanding of how OPA1 dysfunction contributes to vision loss in DOA patients has been limited by access to patient-derived RGCs. Here, we used induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-RGCs to study how OPA1 dysfunction affects cellular homeostasis in human RGCs. iPSCs derived from a DOA+ patient with the OPA1 R445H variant and isogenic CRISPR-Cas9-corrected iPSCs were differentiated to iPSC-RGCs. Defects in mitochondrial networks and increased levels of reactive oxygen species were observed in iPSC-RGCs carrying OPA1 R445H. Ultrastructural analyses also revealed changes in mitochondrial shape and cristae structure, with decreased endoplasmic reticulum (ER): mitochondrial contact length in DOA iPSC-RGCs. Mitochondrial membrane potential was reduced and its maintenance was also impaired following inhibition of the F1Fo-ATP synthase with oligomycin, suggesting that mitochondrial membrane potential is maintained in DOA iPSC-RGCs through reversal of the ATP synthase and ATP hydrolysis. These impairments in mitochondrial structure and function were associated with defects in cytosolic calcium buffering following ER calcium release and store-operated calcium entry, and following stimulation with the excitatory neurotransmitter glutamate. In response to mitochondrial calcium overload, DOA iPSC-RGCs exhibited increased sensitivity to opening of the mitochondrial permeability transition pore. These data reveal novel aspects of DOA pathogenesis in R445H patient-derived RGCs. The findings suggest a mechanism in which primary defects in mitochondrial network dynamics disrupt core mitochondrial functions, including bioenergetics, calcium homeostasis, and opening of the permeability transition pore, which may contribute to vision loss in DOA patients.
POU4F2/BRN3B overexpression promotes the genesis of retinal ganglion cell-like projection neurons from late progenitors
Authors: Oliveira-Valença Viviane Medeiros , Roberts Jacqueline Marie , Fernandes-Cerqueira Vitória Melo , Colmerauer Carolina Herkenhoff , Toledo Beatriz Cardoso de , Santos-França Pedro Lucas , Linden Rafael , Martins Rodrigo Alves Portela , Rocha-Martins Maurício , Bosco Alejandra , Vetter Monica Lynn , Silveira Mariana Souza da
Published: February 2025

Retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) are the projection neurons of the retina, and their death promotes an irreversible blindness. Several factors were described to control their genesis during retinal development which include Atoh7 as a major orchestrator for RGC program and downstream targets, including Pou4f factors, which in turn regulate key aspects of terminal differentiation. The absence of POU4F family genes results in defects in RGC differentiation, aberrant axonal elaboration and ultimately RGC death, confirming the requirement of POU4F factors for RGC development and survival, with a critical role in regulating RGC axon outgrowth and pathfinding. Here, we investigated in vivo whether ectopic Pou4f2 expression in late retinal progenitor cells (late RPCs) is sufficient to induce the generation of cells with RGC properties, including long range axon projections. We showed that Pou4f2 overexpression generates RGC-like cells that share morphological and transcriptional features with RGCs normally generated during early development and extend axonal projections up to the brain. In conclusion, these results showed that POU4F2 alone was sufficient to promote critical properties of projection neurons from retinal progenitors outside their developmental window.
The Use of Conceptual Metaphor in the Interpretive Analysis of Political Discourse
Authors: Bachryj Maciej
Published: February 2025

This article considers the possibility of integrating conceptual metaphor theory (CMT), developed within the realm of cognitive linguistics, with an interpretive approach to political science. The author demonstrates that the theoretical tenets of cognitive linguistics correspond to the ontological and epistemological foundations of the interpretive perspective. Moreover, he points to the need to consider language and meaning-making linguistic processes as an important area for interpretive analysis in political science and shows how CMT can contribute to this task. Finally, the paper signals possible research objectives of such analyses and the potential areas where they could be applied.
Libertarianizm, uprawnienia naturalne i argument estoppelu
Authors: Dominiak Łukasz
Published: February 2025

LIBERTARIANISM, NATURAL RIGHTS, AND ESTOPPEL ARGUMENT
The present paper analyzes Stephan Kinsella’s estoppel argument for the existence of natural rights, especially libertarian self-ownership and private property rights. The point of Kinsella’s argument is to demonstrate that because an offender cannot coherently oppose punishment, his victim must have had rights. Peculiarly, the estoppel argument does not assume the existence of the victim’s rights in order to justify punishing the offender. To the contrary, it attempts to justify the existence of the victim’s rights by the putative fact that the offender cannot coherently oppose punishment. The present paper demonstrates by way of the Hohfeldian analysis and syllogistics that the estoppel argument does not prove the existence of the victim’s rights. The main reason for that is that it fails to deny the existence of the offender’s Hohfeldian liberty to use force against the victim and other persons.
Racjonalizacja irlandzkiego systemu parlamentarnego – analiza rozwiązań konstytucyjnych
Authors: Nawracaj Weronika
Published: February 2025

RATIONALISATION OF THE IRISH PARLIAMENTARY SYSTEM – ANALYSIS OF CONSTITUTIONAL SOLUTIONS
The article deals with the phenomenon of rationalisation of the parliamentary system which goes hand in hand with the political system in Ireland. The author will explain the meaning of the term rationalization and present possible variants. Rationalization as an institutionalization of constitutional rules, pro-premier and pro-presidential orientation of this phenomenon is discussed. For this purpose, the system solutions contained in the Constitution of the First Assembly of 1919, the Constitution of the Free State of Ireland of 1922 and the Constitution of Ireland of 1937 are analysed. The author argues that the Irish model of the institution of the Prime Minister is a prerequisite for the stable functioning of the system, as it plays a central role in it. Moreover, the seemingly similar position of the Irish Prime Minister to that of the United Kingdom distinguishes the inclusion in the Constitution of provisions which particularly strengthen his role in the system. The author of this paper will therefore try to answer the question of what form of rationalisation has been and is being adopted by the parliamentary system on the example of Ireland.
Generative artificial intelligence 2: goal-setting
Authors: Furey Pippa
Published: February 2025

The integration of generative artificial intelligence (Gen AI) into paramedic practice proposes a unique opportunity to enhance professional development and patient care. In this second instalment within the series, we offer a structured approach to continuous professional development (CPD) and performance improvement by exploring the use of SMART (specific, measurable, achievable, realistic, time-bound) targets in goal-setting. This article builds on the theme of ethical considerations, including data privacy, bias mitigation, and compliance with healthcare regulations. Practical examples and templates are provided to illustrate how Gen AI can generate actionable and measurable goals for paramedics across various scenarios – from skill development to leadership and patient communication.
El relatiu “qui/que” en funció de subjecte en les relatives amb antecedent segons Pompeu Fabra
Authors: Martínez Martínez Caterina
Published: February 2025

Aquesta contribució s’insereix dins una recerca més àmplia centrada a estudiar l’impacte del procés de normativització dut a terme a l’entorn de l’obra de Pompeu Fabra sobre l’evolució del català, des de final del segle XIX ençà. Habitualment, la llengua antiga és un referent en l’establiment de la norma fabriana. Es prenen materials lèxics i gramaticals del català medieval amb l’objectiu d’evitar castellanismes o satisfer necessitats comunicatives dels parlants. Sorprenentment, no va esdevenir el mateix en el cas de l’ús del pronom relatiu “qui/que” en funció de subjecte amb antecedent. El català contemporani havia optat pel relatiu "que" en aquesta funció. A partir de les dades dels corpus digitals del català de l’edat mitjana i moderna, del tractament de gramàtics anteriors i coetanis de Fabra i dels seus propis usos, analitzem l’evolució del pensament del Mestre sobre la prescripció d’aquesta construcció sintàctica en el català contemporani. Quins eren realment els usos de “qui” i “que” en funció de subjecte amb antecedent en el català medieval i de l’edat moderna? Com van evolucionar aquests usos fins arribar a la situació contemporània? Què degué moure Fabra a acceptar l’ús de “que”, un ús que aparentment es distanciava de la llengua antiga?
Fabra y demás familia
Authors: Massanell i Messalles Mar
Published: February 2025

Hoy la expresión “i família toda” es percibida como una fórmula habitual de conclusión de las enumeraciones de familiares propias de las esquelas mortuorias. Aun así, si retrocedemos un siglo, esta función lo ocupaba “i demés família" (o "i demés parents"), como resultado de una interferencia que otorgaba a este indefinido el valor del cognato castellano, en detrimento del significado genuino. Fabra, en su tarea de depuración del idioma, encontró en la lengua medieval una solución sustitutoria. En el presente artículo, empezamos por reseguir en los textos del Maestro los diversos estadios por los cuales pasó la propuesta, que se inicia como “i els parents tots”, llega a “i parents tots” (en convivencia con “i tots altres parents”) y desemboca en “i família tota”. A continuación, a través del vaciado del Corpus Informatizado del Català Antic, establecemos las bases medievales de la construcción con "tot" pospuesto y analizamos qué contextos podían legitimar que se omitiera el especificador. Finalmente, mediante el vaciado del Corpus Textual Informatizado de la Lengua Catalana, mostramos el progreso en la implantación de la propuesta de Fabra a partir de la publicación de la Gramática catalana de 1918 y constatamos que estamos ante un éxito más del proceso de normativización.
Recent breakthroughs in digital holography, 2D/3D imaging, and holographic optical elements: introduction
Authors: Ferraro Pietro , Alieva Tatiana , Memmolo Pasquale , Nehmetallah George , Zhang Yaping
Published: February 2025

The Optica Digital Holography and Three-Dimensional Imaging Topical Meeting (DH) 2024 in Paestum, Italy, brought together a vibrant hub for global experts to showcase cutting-edge research and industry pioneers to discuss the latest developments in digital holography (DH) and 3D imaging techniques. This meeting’s impact is further amplified by a dedicated feature issue across three prestigious Optica journals: Applied Optics, Journal of the Optical Society of America A, and Biomedical Optics Express. This introduction summarizes the diverse and high-quality contributions, highlighting key advancements and applications that are shaping the future of DH and imaging.