bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Baseline Participant Characteristics are Associated With Engagement in a Movement-Based RCT for Chronic Low-Back Pain
Authors: Garnsey Camille L. , Gnall Katherine E. , Emrich Mariel , Park Crystal L. , Starkweather Angela R. , Xu Wanli , Groessl Erik J. , Huedo-Medina Tania B.
Published: January 2025

Purpose

Examine whether baseline participant characteristics predict engagement in a movement-based RCT for chronic low back pain (CLBP).

Design

Longitudinal study within an RCT.

Setting

Online.

Subjects

138 individuals with CLBP (18-79 years).

Intervention

Participants were randomized to a 12-week intervention of twice-weekly synchronous online yoga OR stretching/strengthening classes, and received 20-min pre-recorded home videos to complete daily.

Measures

Baseline questionnaires assessed sociodemographic, psychosocial, and pain factors (100% response rate). Engagement was operationalized as minutes of class attended + minutes of home videos completed.

Results

Bivariate correlations were computed between baseline variables and engagement. Three multivariate negative binomial generalized linear models (GLMs) were constructed to simultaneously examine predictors of engagement in the domains of sociodemographic, psychosocial, and pain-related factors. Greater engagement was significantly associated with greater baseline age, educational attainment, energy, and emotional well-being, and less emotion regulation difficulties, cannabis use problems, and pain interference (|rs| = .19-.33). In the domain specific GLMs, education (B = .491, P = .017) and cannabis use problems (B = −.048, P = .027) were the only significant predictors in the sociodemographic and psychosocial models, respectively. Neither pain interference nor pain severity were significant in the pain model.

Conclusion

Factors identified can inform strategies to increase engagement in movement-based CLBP interventions, potentially improving research validity and outcomes. Limitations include lack of racial diversity and not testing how engagement fluctuates throughout the intervention.
Living in Historically Redlined Neighborhoods and the Cognitive Function of Black and White Adults
Authors: Fisk Calley E. , Ailshire Jennifer A. , Walsemann Katrina M.
Published: January 2025

Objectives

We determined if living in historically redlined neighborhoods was associated with level and change in cognitive functioning and if this association differed for Black and White older adults.

Methods

We linked the Health and Retirement Study 1998–2018 data to redlining scores from the Historic Redlining Indicator data. Our sample included adults aged 50 years and older (24,230 respondents, 129,618 person-period observations). Using three-level linear mixed models, we estimated the relationship between living in historically redlined neighborhoods on level and change in cognitive functioning for pooled and race-stratified samples.

Results

Residents of historically redlined “Declining” and “Hazardous” neighborhoods had lower cognitive functioning scores compared to residents of “Best/Desirable” neighborhoods. Among Black adults, living in “Hazardous” neighborhoods was associated with slower declines in cognitive functioning compared to living in “Best/Desirable” neighborhoods.

Discussion

Historical redlining is associated with older adults’ cognitive functioning, underscoring the importance of sociohistorical context for the neighborhood–cognition relationship.
Construction of AI scroll profiles for scroll compressors utilizing algebraic spiral and involute
Authors: Yan Min , Liu Tao
Published: January 2025

A new type of scroll profile consisting of an algebraic spiral and an involute (AI) is proposed in this paper. To solve the problem of the small built-in volume ratio in the traditional scroll profile and the need to modify the wrap head before use, mathematical equations and geometric models of AI scroll profiles are generated based on the boundary constraints of combined scroll profiles. In addition, the geometrical relationship between scroll profile parameters and the influence of profile parameters on the midline, scroll wrap, and geometrical properties of AI scroll profiles are quantitatively studied. Finally, the stress and deformation of the new AI scroll wrap are compared to those of the involute scroll wrap. The results indicate that the AI scroll profile improves the performance of the scroll compressor and can be used directly without head modification. Under the same scroll wrap profile parameters, the maximum deformation and maximum equivalent stress of AI scroll wrap are 44.61% and 80.12% lower than those of the involute scroll wrap, respectively.
Pre-alignment of fibroblasts induced by micropatterning and cyclic stretching techniques accelerates wound healing
Authors: Toyohara Ryota , Lan Yanan , Chen Yu , Yoriki Takaya , Ohashi Toshiro
Published: January 2025

Background

Wound healing proceeds through a complex collaborative process. It has been shown that during the intermediate phase of the wound healing process, fibroblasts migrate into wound area and contract to contribute to the closure of the wound area. Moreover, previous studies have shown that fibroblast alignment was observed on the mature stage of wound scar. These studies clearly indicate that fibroblasts play a critical role in wound healing process, however, the whole mechanism of wound healing remains still unclear.

Objective

Fibroblasts are pre-aligned to evaluate the effect of cell alignment on cell migration rate.

Methods

The cell alignment was accomplished by PDMS microstamping with fibronectin and application of cyclic stretching. Wound was created by physical scratching and then the wound closure rate was measured.

Results

The pre-aligned cells perpendicular to the direction of scratched wound exhibited significantly higher migration rate, compared to non-aligned control cells. Moreover, pre-aligned cells with thick actin filaments by cyclic stretching migrated faster than those with less development of actin filament structures by microstamping.

Conclusion

The wound closure can be accelerated by the adequate alignment of fibroblasts as well as the development of actin filament structures.
Holocene multi-proxy environmental reconstruction of a tundra lake: A case study from Reindeer Lake, Western Spitzbergen
Authors: Dobrowolski Radosław , Zagórski Piotr , Pidek Irena Agnieszka , Rodzik Jan , Hajdas Irka
Published: January 2025

Multi-proxy analyses of two twin sediment cores from the Reindeer Lake were performed to reconstruct the Holocene environmental conditions in this eastern branch of the Bellsund region (Western Spitsbergen). A continuous Holocene lacustrine sediment sequence record was documented, with the dominance of a single algal species, Pediastrum orientale. The basal sediment was AMS 14C-dated between 8.4 and 8.2 ka cal BP. The results of our study, indicate: (1) a very slow sedimentation process during the period of the lake’s functioning, (2) low supply of nutrients from the catchment throughout the period from Mid-Holocene to the present, (3) the process of constant physiological adaptation of Pediastrum orientale algae to changing environmental conditions. The inferred climatic history at the Reindeer Lake is compatible with other evidence from Svalbard and elsewhere in the Arctic.
Temporalities of welfare automation: On timing, belatedness, and perpetual emergence
Authors: Kaun Anne
Published: January 2025

Automation has sparked dreams of overcoming human boundaries since at least the 1950s, and recent decades have seen an upswing in imagining a bright technological future in which artificial intelligence (AI) will solve social, economic, and political challenges and improve public administration and welfare provision. However, the introduction of algorithmic automation can cause friction. On the one hand, enthusiasm for algorithmic automation in the industrial and public sectors is increasing, and widespread digitalization and automation projects are revolutionizing public administration and welfare. On the other hand, public discourse is increasingly painting a dystopian picture of the digitally automated welfare state, critiquing biases and raising issues of accountability and autonomy. In this article, I take the frictions, conflicts, and contradictions that emerge from technological change as a starting point for considering the temporalities of algorithmic automation, particularly focusing on the Swedish context. Considering three temporal layers of welfare automation—timing, belatedness, and perpetual emergence—I outline the contours of the contemporary Swedish digital welfare state and discuss the critical implications of delegating decisions to algorithmic systems and their mediating features. Drawing on a diverse set of empirical data drawn from in-depth interviews with civil servants and software developers and observations of Swedish public agencies, I engage with the unfulfilled promises of the fully automated welfare state.
Institutional Ownership and Corporate Risk-taking: Indian Evidence
Authors: Jha Ratish Kumar , Tiwari Reshma Kumari
Published: January 2025

The study examines the impact of institutional ownership on corporate risk-taking in India. It further differentiates institutional ownership into domestic and foreign categories and examines their respective influences on corporate risk-taking, alongside assessing the moderating role of the COVID-19 pandemic. The present study is based on a panel data set of 100 non-financial Indian firms randomly selected from the top 500 firms listed on the Bombay Stock Exchange, covering the period from 2013 to 2022. The study employs two market-based risk measures—total and idiosyncratic risk—to capture corporate risk-taking. Fixed effects panel data model, along with generalized estimating equations and generalized method of moments, is used to ensure robustness of results. The study finds a significant negative impact of institutional ownership on corporate risk-taking. Specifically, domestic institutional ownership significantly reduces corporate risk-taking, whereas foreign institutional ownership shows no significant impact. Furthermore, the COVID-19 crisis does not moderate the relationship between institutional ownership and corporate risk-taking or domestic institutional ownership and corporate risk-taking. However, it positively moderates the relationship between foreign institutional ownership and corporate risk-taking. The insights hold immense value for policymakers, regulators and industry practitioners. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, the present study is a maiden attempt to investigate the impact of domestic and foreign institutional ownership on corporate risk-taking in the Indian context. Furthermore, this is the first study to examine the moderating role of COVID-19 on relationships. Additionally, the study incorporates idiosyncratic risk as an additional measure of corporate risk-taking, largely overlooked in the Indian context.
Online interest in ADHD predicts ADHD medication prescriptions in Australia from 2004 to 2023: A time-series analysis revealing COVID-19-related acceleration
Authors: Sy-Cherng Woon Luke , Smith David , Alllison Stephen , Looi Jeffrey CL , Bastiampillai Tarun
Published: January 2025

Objective

Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) medication prescriptions in Australia have grown sharply in recent years. We examined the association between online interest in ADHD and prescriptions.

Methods

Monthly Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) and Repatriation PBS (RPBS) Item Reports of ADHD prescriptions and Australian ADHD-related Google Trends (GT) data (2004–2023) were sourced. We modelled the lagged effect of GT on ADHD medication prescriptions, using an autoregressive moving average model with autoregressive conditional heteroskedasticity, adjusting for COVID-19 lockdown effects. Results were compared to a model of GT for pain-related searches and PBS/RPBS opioid prescriptions, and counterfactual alternatives: (1) ADHD-related GT and opioid prescriptions and (2) pain-related GT and ADHD prescriptions. We descriptively analysed additional ADHD-related online news data.

Results

Annual prescriptions doubled from 1,424,904 in 2020 to 3,112,072 in 2023. ADHD medication prescriptions and ADHD-related GT considerably increased since the COVID-19 pandemic. GT had a statistically significant positive lagged association with ADHD prescriptions. Comparator models did not show statistically significant associations between GT and prescriptions. Online news data supported recently increased public interest in ADHD.

Conclusions

ADHD-related online interest predicts increased ADHD prescriptions, which was accentuated during the pandemic. Studies are needed to evaluate causal pathways, health information quality and sociodemographic determinants.
Temperature effects on electro-mechanical admittance monitoring of 2-2 cement-based piezoelectric transducers
Authors: Zhu Lei , Wu Jianchao , Chen Yixuan , Wang Jianjun , Li Weijie , Li Liyu
Published: January 2025

The application of 2-2 cement-based piezoelectric transducers (2-2) in the field of structural health monitoring (SHM) encounters obstacles due to temperature effects. To address this issue, this study investigates the effect of temperature on the electro-mechanical admittance (EMA) spectrum of the 2-2 and piezoelectric smart aggregates (SA), employing both theoretical and experimental approaches. Initially, the admittance temperature effect was scrutinized based on the 2-2 theory. Subsequently, experiments were conducted to assess the admittance temperature effects of the 2-2 and SA. Finally, both the 2-2 and SA were embedded in cement mortar specimens, and the admittance temperature effect was analyzed. Experimental results reveal that temperature variation induced distinct behaviors in the EMA characteristics of 2-2 and SA in low and high frequency bands. Theoretical investigations and experimental results demonstrate a certain degree of consistency. When the sensors were embedded within the cement specimens, its EMA spectrum and the temperature sensitivity of the EMA change, particularly evident in the conductance peaks. This should be taken into consideration in future work involving SHM using the 2-2 sensors.
Modified superior capsule reconstruction using the peroneus longus for irreparable massive rotator-cuff tears: A cadaveric study
Authors: Wang Kehao , Ning Rende , Fang Run , Chen Guang , Li Hongyan , Peng Cheng
Published: January 2025

Background: 

Irreparable massive rotator cuff tears (IMRCTs) present substantial treatment challenges, highlighting the necessity of making effective treatments available.

Objective: 

To evaluate the biomechanical characteristics of a modified procedure of superior capsule reconstruction (mSCR) employing the autologous peroneus longus tendon for the treatment of irreparable massive rotator-cuff tears (IMRCTs), encompassing the entire supraspinatus tendon and 50% of the infraspinatus tendon.

Methods: 

Seven cadaveric specimens were tested at 0°, 30°, and 60° glenohumeral abduction under the following three conditions: (1) intact, (2) IMRCT, and (3) mSCR using the autologous peroneus longus tendon. Humeral rotational range of motion (ROM), superior translation of the humeral head, and subacromial contact pressure were measured. Repeated-measures ANOVA was followed by Tukey's post hoc test to perform statistical analyses.

Results: 

At all the abduction angles, superior translation of the humeral head and subacromial contact pressure were higher in the IMRCT group than in the intact group but were significantly lower in the mSCR group than in the IMRCT group. All these differences were statistically significant ( P < 0.05).

Conclusion: 

The mSCR procedure can reduce the superior translation of the humeral head and subacromial contact pressure without limiting humeral ROM in IMRCTs. Utilizing mSCR with the peroneus longus tendon may serve as a therapeutic approach for IMRCTs.
Task-oriented robotic rehabilitation for back mobility and functioning in a post-intensive care unit obese patient: A case report
Authors: Lippi Lorenzo , de Sire Alessandro , Pizzorno Marco , Turco Alessio , Ariatti Sarah , Curci Claudio , Ammendolia Antonio , Invernizzi Marco
Published: January 2025

Background

Intensive care unit (ICU) acquired weakness is a detrimental condition characterized by muscle weakness, difficulty in weaning from mechanical ventilation, impaired mobility, and functional limitations, severely affecting overall quality of life. Obese patients face additional challenges due to obesity-related factors that exacerbate the negative effects of immobilization. Rehabilitation interventions have emerged as a crucial component of post-ICU care, but the rehabilitation management of obese patients remains challenging.

Objective

to present the impact of implementing Walker View 3.0 SCX technology in post-intensive care unit rehabilitation of obese patient.

Methods

A 69-year-old Caucasian man with a BMI of 44.8 kg/m2 was referred to the Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation Unit at Alessandria Hospital, Italy, following an ICU admission for pneumonia. After a comprehensive multidisciplinary evaluation, the patient underwent an intensive rehabilitation program including physical exercises and a personalized dietary plan. A task-oriented robotic rehabilitation was added, utilizing the Walker View 3.0 SCX, for 30 min/day, 5 days/week. The robotic rehabilitation program focused on sit-to-stand mobility with weight support initially and progressed to a weight-supported robotic treadmill.

Results

The patient showed clear improvements in physical function, muscle strength, and independence in activity of daily living (Barthel Index improved from 15 to 70, De Morton Mobility Index improved from 8 to 39, Medical Research Council Strength improved from 17 to 40, Functional Ambulation Classification score improved from 0 to 3, Handgrip Strength Test improved from 8.8 kg to 39.4 kg). Managed by a single physiotherapist, this approach showed positive results in enhancing functional outcomes, with potential benefits in reducing operator time and assistance costs.

Conclusions

Integrating task-oriented robotic rehabilitation with Walker View 3.0 SCX showed promising outcomes for obese patients post-ICU. Personalized interventions with weight-bearing capabilities and real-time feedback optimized post-ICU care, enhancing functional outcomes, and potentially reducing operator time and assistance costs. Further research with larger samples is needed to validate the broader applicability and cost-effectiveness of robotic rehabilitation technologies in obese patients with ICU-acquired weakness.
Influence of Social Media in Multidisciplinary Cleft Care in Indonesia
Authors: Bangun Kristaninta , Tania Vika , Kreshanti Prasetyanugraheni , Halim Jessica
Published: January 2025

Social media has played a pivotal role in relaying healthcare-related information, especially in efforts to improve cleft management. Cleft management involves a multidisciplinary team throughout the years of comprehensive intervention, from birth to adulthood.

To investigate the behaviors of parents and patients with clefts regarding social media use in improving cleft-related outcomes, knowledge, and awareness.

This questionnaire-based descriptive study was conducted online and involved both closed- and short-ended questions.

Parents and patients with cleft lip and palate provided consent to participate in the study.

Patient demographics, history, and timing of cleft treatment, barriers to care, and social media use were explored.

Fifty-six participants were enrolled in this study. The mean ages of the mothers and fathers of children with cleft were 34 (range, 24-57) and 36 (range, 26-59) years, respectively, and more than one-half were university graduates. WhatsApp, Instagram, and YouTube were used by 100%, 89%, and 89% of parents, respectively, 82% of whom were part of a cleft community group. Seventy-two percent underwent labioplasty, and 75% underwent palatoplasty at the ideal time. Parents exhibited low perceived barriers to care, with 33% and 37% reporting limitations on knowledge and accommodation, respectively.

Social media is the key to bridging the gap between the large number of cases and facility limitations and specialized human resources. Cleft centers should integrate combined platforms ( WhatsApp, YouTube, and Instagram) for marketing and education purposes. Social media and community groups facilitate sharing, engagement, and empowerment of patients and caregivers to improve cleft-related outcomes.
Prevalence of Chronic Diseases, Allergies and Food Intolerance in Schoolchildren in a Network of Educational Centers with School Nurses in Spain
Authors: Barrio Cortes Jaime , Benito-Sánchez Beatriz , Núñez Mata Anaís , Lozano-Hernández Cristina , Díaz-Quesada María , Vicario-Merino Ángel , Ruiz Janeiro Jesús , Ruiz-Zaldibar Cayetana
Published: January 2025

The prevalence of chronic diseases, including allergies, is increasing in schoolchildren, making school nurses essential in managing students’ health. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of chronic conditions in schoolchildren within a network of Spanish educational centers with school nurses. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in May 2023, covering 25,951 students from these centers. Schoolchildren and educational center data were collected from the school health records to document health information and nursing activities. Mean age of students was 10.11 years (50.20% female). A total of 9.45% had chronic disorders, including disorders of the respiratory (4.14%), neurological (2.94%), digestive (2.28%), musculoskeletal (1.25%), and cardiovascular (1.14%) systems. A total of 12.5% had allergies (6.10% food allergies), and 2.81% had food intolerances. Identifying and recording these diseases are key responsibilities of the school nurse, supporting improved care quality and informing policies to ensure school nurse availability and enhanced health management protocols for students.
Enhancing Evaluations of Female Politicians’ Suitability for the Foreign Affairs Portfolio
Authors: Humayun Fahd
Published: January 2025

In this paper I show that two popularly cited sources of bias against female politicians contending for high-status foreign policy roles in government, the gendered costs of filling “hard” policy domains such as foreign affairs, and quota penalties, are not immutable. First, in a candidate-choice experiment fielded on real-world Pakistani legislators, I show that biases against female politicians' candidacy to foreign policy legislative committees can be significantly offset by emphasizing candidate qualification. Second, in an experiment on Pakistani social media users, increasingly considered a captive base for the misogynist takedowns of female politicians, I show how hawkishness by female Foreign Ministers helps attenuate some of the credibility challenges associated with being on a reserved seat. These findings shed light on the kinds of information that may facilitate the elevation and success of female politicians vying for foreign policy roles.
Coronal Plane Alignment of the Medial Column in Isolated Hallux Valgus, Isolated Flatfoot, and Combined Hallux Valgus-Flatfoot
Authors: Lalevee Matthieu , Beaudet Philippe , Saffarini Mo , Agu Chinyelum , Van Rooij Floris , Barbachan Mansur Nacime Salomao , Carvalho Kepler , Dibbern Kevin , de Cesar Netto Cesar
Published: January 2025

Background:

To provide improved treatment for hallux valgus (HV), we sought to understand more about the pathophysiologic connection between flatfoot deformity and HV by comparing coronal plane alignment of the medial column of the foot for patients with isolated HV, isolated flatfoot, and combined HV-flatfoot vs controls.

Methods:

This study retrospectively assessed a consecutive series of 33 patients with combined symptomatic and radiographic HV and flatfoot, 33 isolated symptomatic HV, 33 isolated symptomatic flatfoot, and 33 controls. The medial column alignment was assessed in the coronal plane using 3-dimensional weightbearing computed tomography (WBCT); rotation was measured for the navicular, medial cuneiform, and first metatarsal (M1). The position of the first naviculocuneiform (NC) and tarsometatarsal (TMT) joints were determined.

Results:

M1 intrinsic pronation was significantly greater in patients with combined HV-flatfoot (-12.0 ± 7.0 degrees; P < .001), isolated HV (−12.1 ± 6.6 degrees; P < .001), and isolated flatfoot (–11.8 ± 8.5 degrees; P < .001), compared with control patients (−19.4 ± 6.7 degrees). TMT was significantly more pronated in patients with combined HV-flatfoot (30.9 ± 6.2 degrees) compared with isolated flatfoot (25.3 ± 9.3 degrees; P = .007), and control (25.9 ± 5.2 degrees; P = .005), as it was in patients with isolated HV (33.2 ± 8.2 degrees) compared with isolated flatfoot ( P < .001), and control ( P < .001). NC was significantly more supinated in patients with combined HV-flatfoot (−23.7 ± 3.9 degrees) compared to isolated flatfoot (−18.0 ± 9.8 degrees; P = .001), and control (−18.0 ± 4.5 degrees; P < .001), as it was for patients with isolated HV (−24.8 ± 7.1 degrees) compared with isolated flatfoot ( P = .003), and control ( P < .001).

Conclusion:

In our study, we found that patients with isolated HV, isolated flatfoot, or combined HV-flatfoot presented a similar increase in M1 intrinsic pronation of approximately 7.5 degrees, compared with controls. Moreover, patients with isolated HV or combined HV-flatfoot had greater TMT pronation and NC supination, compared with patients with isolated flatfoot and controls.
Design of autonomous driving controls for multi-trailer articulated heavy vehicles
Authors: Ajorkar Abbas , He Yuping
Published: January 2025

This article proposes a method for devising autonomous driving controls for multi-trailer articulated heavy vehicles (MTAHVs). This design is formulated as an optimization problem for improving ride quality and path-following performance. To implement the multi-objective design, a nonlinear model predictive control (NLMPC) technique is used to devise a tracking-controller for a MTAHV. For the NLMPC controller design, a nonlinear model is generated as the prediction model, and the respective TruckSim model is developed as the virtual plant. The weighting matrices of the NLMPC controller are chosen as the design variables, and a metaheuristic search algorithm is used to optimize these variables. By offline tuning these matrices automatically, the lateral-displacement error for the tractor decreases by 53%. Simulations demonstrate the reliability of the proposed design approach and the robustness of the NLMPC tracking-controller.
Assessing pain in multiple sclerosis: Test–retest reliability of patient-reported outcome measures and accuracy of screening tools
Authors: Yilmazer Cigdem , D’haeseleer Miguel , Soler Bernardita , Van Wijmeersch Bart , Solaro Claudio , Ciampi Ethel , Carcamo Claudia , Van Asch Paul , Cambron Melissa , Lamers Ilse , Feys Peter
Published: January 2025

Background:

Pain is a common symptom of multiple sclerosis (MS). The reliability of outcome measures for pain and the accuracy of screening tools are essential for treatment purposes.

Objectives:

This study investigated the test–retest reliability of Neuropathic Pain Scale (NPS), Neuropathic Pain Symptom Inventory (NPSI), Brief Pain Inventory-Short Form (BPI-SF), Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire (NMQ), Douleur Neuropathique 4 (DN4), and painDETECT, and the accuracy of DN4 and painDETECT.

Methods:

110 persons with MS were included (mean age: 45.35 ± 12.73; Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS): 3 (Interquartile range, IQR: 2.6)). The reliability (internal consistency, test–retest, measurement error) and accuracy (area under the curve (AUC), specificity, sensitivity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value) were analyzed.

Results:

All included pain assessment tools showed good test–retest reliability (Intraclass correlation coefficient, ICC, (95% confidence interval, CI): 0.85 (0.79–0.89)–0.89 (0.84–0.92)) and good-to-excellent internal consistency (Cronbach’s α: 0.73–0.93). The test–retest reliability of NMQ was moderate to substantial (Cohen’s κ = 0.54–0.87). The overall accuracy of DN4 compared to the neurologist’s diagnosis was acceptable (AUC = 0.762), while that of painDETECT was poor (AUC = 0.682) and demonstrated inadequate predictive ability.

Conclusion:

All pain outcome measures were reliable in patients with MS (pwMS). DN4 can be used to screen neuropathic pain in MS.

Clinical trial registry name:

Reliability and Validity of Outcome Measures for Pain in MS https://register.clinicaltrials.gov/prs/app/action/SelectProtocol?sid=S000CRMD&selectaction=Edit&uid=U0006NAA&ts=2&cx=-jzvd6m Registration number: NCT05742152
Analytical investigation of residual stress in samples with variable cross-sectional surfaces in the laser powder bed fusion process
Authors: Mansouri Morteza , Fallah Mohammad Meghdad
Published: January 2025

One of the primary challenges associated with the laser powder bed fusion process is the presence of residual stress. These residual stresses arise from the significant thermal gradients induced by the rapid heating and cooling of the material, which are inherent to the laser powder bed fusion process. Such stresses can contribute to crack formation, distortion, and, ultimately, failure of the component. Consequently, effective control of residual stress is of paramount importance. In this study, an analytical approach was employed to establish the relationship between the distribution of residual stresses within samples exhibiting two variable cross-sectional geometries. Utilizing the principles of force and moment equilibrium, the distribution of residual stresses in each layer of the sample was determined. To validate the analytical method, experimental measurements of residual stresses in both the surface layer and the interlayer region of Inconel 625 samples were conducted. Additionally, the impact of hatch distance on the residual stress within the experimental samples was examined. Residual stress measurements were performed using a non-destructive X-ray diffraction technique. The results from the experimental analysis indicate that an increase in hatch distance correlates with a reduction in residual stress. Furthermore, a comparison between the residual stress at the center of the surface layer and that at the interface of the variable cross-sectional sample reveals that the residual stress at the interface is approximately halved.
Politicians as brands in parliamentary vs. presidential systems: A cross-national comparison
Authors: Van Steenburg Eric , Guzmán Francisco
Published: January 2025

Recent research has shown that politicians, specifically candidates, are viewed by the electorate as brands (Guzmán et al., 2015; Harrison et al., 2023), and that their brand image has an effect on voting intention (Van Steenburg & Guzmán, 2019). However, in all of these cases, the research was conducted in a presidential political system, where the electorate vote directly for a politician to function as head of the government. In parliamentary systems, though, the electorate vote for members of parliament, from which the head of government is appointed either by a non-executive president or a hereditary monarch. Therefore, the electorate in these systems do not directly choose the leader of their government, which leads one to question whether a politician’s brand matters as much in a parliamentary system as it does when the electorate vote directly for the head of state. To answer that question, data were collected in two presidential systems (United States and Mexico) and two parliamentary systems (Canada and the United Kingdom) using methodology that tests a politician’s brand image. Results show that politicians’ brands help shape the affective response toward the politicians regardless of political system, and that one’s self-brand image is as important to shaping those attitudes in a parliamentary system as it is in a presidential one. This is important to political marketers working in parliamentary systems as strategies can be developed to create a politician’s brand image that is valuable for elections as well as when governing.
Real-time ultrasound-guided thoracic epidural placement: Illustrating the techniques and reporting on prospective observational study
Authors: Sutthibenjakul Karuna , Pakpirom Jatuporn , Siripruekpong Sirikarn , Boonchuduang Somrutai
Published: January 2025

Background:

This study aimed to assess the feasibility of real-time ultrasound-guided thoracic epidural placement.

Methods:

A prospective observational study was conducted in 20 patients undergoing elective abdominal and thoracic surgery. The procedure, performed with patients in a lateral position, involved three sequential steps: (1) identification of the interlaminar gap, (2) advancement of the Touhy needle, and (3) identification of the epidural space. Success was defined as the catheter insertion with achieving sensory blockade. The estimated and actual epidural depth, thoracic epidural placement success rate and procedural time were recorded.

Results:

The average age and body mass index were 62.1 ± 8.9 years and 22.4 ± 4.4 kg/m2. Thoracic epidural placement was successful in 18 patients (90%, 95% confidence interval: 77–100), and at first attempt in 12 of those (66.7%). The thoracic epidural placement times and total procedural time were 5 (4–6.75) min and 19.5 ± 5.4 min, respectively. The correlation between ultrasound-estimated epidural depth and actual depth was 0.81.

Conclusion:

Ultrasound guidance enhances thoracic epidural success rates and reduces attempts and skin punctures.
Plain Language Summary of Publication: What is the effect of the medicine vibegron in the treatment of overactive bladder in patients with and without bladder leakage?
Authors: Staskin David , Frankel Jeffrey , Gregg Steven G. , Owens-Grillo Janet
Published: January 2025

What is this summary about?

People with overactive bladder need to use the bathroom many times a day to urinate (pee). This need may often be sudden and may cause some people with overactive bladder to have accidental bladder leakage. The EMPOWUR trial looked at how well a medicine called vibegron worked to help people with overactive bladder. The study also included another drug that was already available for treating overactive bladder called tolterodine and a pill with no medicine called a placebo. Both vibegron and tolterodine were compared with placebo. Participants had improvements in their overactive bladder symptoms after taking either vibegron or tolterodine compared to placebo. The medicine vibegron was approved in 2020 by the US Food and Drug Administration (also called the FDA) to treat overactive bladder. Researchers next wanted to see how well vibegron worked in people from the EMPOWUR trial split into 2 groups. One group was made of participants with overactive bladder who have accidental leakage. The second group was made of participants with overactive bladder who do not have accidental leakage. This is a plain language summary of the study of how well vibegron works for those 2 groups from the EMPOWUR study that was published in the International Journal of Clinical Practice.

What were the results?

Study participants who took vibegron needed to pee fewer times per day. The number of times they had little warning before the need to pee was also lower. The results were the same for study participants who did and did not have accidental leakage related to overactive bladder.

What do the results mean?

This study suggests that vibegron can improve symptoms in people with overactive bladder whether or not they have accidental bladder leakage.
Diagnostic utility of lipocalin 2 and metalloproteinase 9 levels in early-stage endometrial cancer
Authors: Ünüvar Songül , Melekoğlu Rauf , Yüce Hande , Çelik Nesibe Zeyveli , Okumuş Ezgi Bulut , Toprak Serhat , Tanbek Kevser , Yaşar Şeyma , Doğan Ayşegül , Türkmen Neşe Başak , Yılmaz Ercan , Sandal Süleyman
Published: January 2025

Background

Endometrial cancer (EC) is the fourth most common gynecologic malignancy among women. Histopathologic examination is considered gold-standard for diagnosis of EC. However, these examinations sometimes not be useful in distinguishing early stage types of EC.

Objectıves

The current study aimed to investigate the clinicopathological significance of Lipocalin-2 (LCN2), matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP9), and ferritin in tumor progression.

Methods

A total of 98 patients (55 women newly diagnosed with early-stage endometrial cancer [study group] and 43 women with benign endometrial pathologies [control group]) were enrolled.

Results

There was a significant difference between diagnosis (p < 0.001), surgical procedure (p < 0.001), pathology (p = 0.002), stage (p < 0.001), lymphovascular invasion (LVI) (p = 0.002), myometrial invasion (p < 0.001), and staining intensity (p < 0.001), MMP9 (p = 0.023), LCN2 (p < 0.001), glucocorticoid (GC) (p = 0.048), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) (p = 0.044), menopause duration (p = 0.001), body weight (p < 0.001), and body mass index (BMI) (p < 0.001) were found to be higher, and ferritin levels (p = 0.047) were lower in the endometrial adenocarcinoma group compared to the benign endometrial pathologies.

Conclusıon

LCN2, MMP9, and ferritin are practical markers in early cases of endometrial cancer. Serum LCN2 and MMP9 levels may be good clinical tools for the auxiliary diagnosis of early-stage endometrial cancer. Ferritin was also significantly sensitive. Therefore, detecting these markers together may be more beneficial for cancer diagnosis.
A Comparison of Complication Rates in Flexor Tendon Repair Performed in Operating Rooms Versus Clinic-Based Procedure Rooms
Authors: Tessier Laurent , Gélinas Ariane , Speak Alexandra , Lalonde Donald , Haddad Jacques
Published: January 2025

Background: Wide-awake local anesthesia no tourniquet (WALANT) surgery has demonstrated its value in hand surgery allowing surgeons to safely operate patients in different settings outside of a formal operating room (OR). Flexor tendon lacerations have historically been repaired in the controlled setting of an OR. Plastic surgeons at our university-affiliated center have increasingly been performing flexor repairs in clinic-based procedure rooms (PRs). This study set out to evaluate the safety and complication rates of primary flexor tendon repair performed in PRs compared to those performed in the OR. Method: A unicentric retrospective study was conducted with patients who underwent primary flexor tendon repair between 2019 and 2023 in both clinic-based PRs and the OR. Primary outcomes included presence of tendon rupture and secondary outcomes included infection, adhesion, reintervention, and presence of any complication. Results are reported using odds ratios with 95% confidence intervals. Results: One hundred seventy-four patients underwent flexor tendon repair. There was no association between rupture rate and surgical setting (OR 1.05 95% CI [0.30-3.78]; P = .94). Surgeries performed in clinic-based PRs showed a reduction in the odds of observing at least one complication (OR = 0.49 [0.24-0.97]; P = .041). A subanalysis of single digit cases showed a similar association between the rate of complications and surgical setting (OR = 0.39 [0.16-0.96]; P = .039). Conclusions: This study confirms the safety of performing flexor repair in clinic-based PRs. Such settings also offer the advantage of reduced cost of surgery and minimized delay between diagnosis and surgery.
Redefining the Approach to Resettlement and Reception: The Humanitarian Corridors Experience in Italy
Authors: Enna Antea
Published: January 2025

Executive Summary

In an era of global uncertainty and multiple humanitarian crises, migration is a matter of life and death for many. In the Mediterranean, the migration drive from Africa and the Middle East has been restricted by European containment policies that have forced asylum seekers and refugees to depend on smugglers and illegal sea-crossing, resulting in numerous tragedies in which many have died. The lack of a secure path to access international protection and safe and legal entry to Europe and the increase in vulnerable people seeking international protection have motivated some stakeholders to outline and test new approaches to support refugees’ resettlement. Humanitarian corridors are a civil society response to support refugees and asylum seekers to reach Europe legally and safely. Although not without its drawbacks, the approach has proved highly effective.

This article explores the humanitarian corridors from Lebanon to Italy, delving into the experiences of Syrian refugees who have participated in the program and those who have been involved in its implementation. It examines the weaknesses and strengths of the humanitarian corridors program based on feedback from program beneficiaries, field staff in Lebanon, and those in charge of the reception in Italy. Results reveal that, overall, this approach has proven to be highly effective as the humanitarian corridors are a civil society response to support refugees and asylum seekers to reach Europe legally and safely. Moreover, findings show that expanding humanitarian corridors on a larger scale is possible. The growth of humanitarian corridors depends on the political commitment of member states, the European Union policies and financial allocation, and civil society actors. Collaboration between governments and civil society could boost the potential for expansion, ensuring safe and legal entry for more individuals in need.
Bringing Historical Management Theories to Life: An Experiential Exercise Using Generative AI
Authors: Akben Mustafa , Mercado Brittany , McSweeney Jill
Published: January 2025

Foundational management theories, such as the Principles of Scientific Management, Bureaucratic Management, or Systems Theory, provide frameworks for understanding and organizing the extensive body of management knowledge. Despite their significance, students often find it difficult to grasp and apply historical concepts in today’s workplace. In this experiential exercise, we use generative artificial intelligence (AI) to create an interactive chatbot through which students “interview” historical figures. Through this exercise, students achieve four key learning objectives: (a) demonstrating a critical understanding of historical management frameworks; (b) analyzing how historical, social, and economic contexts influenced management thinking; (c) evaluating the applicability of historical management frameworks to contemporary business settings; and (d) critically analyzing and interpreting information generated by AI tools to enhance AI literacy. The activity includes tailored open-access chatbots and resources to assist these learning outcomes across various class formats.
PRMT5 Inhibition Reduces Hyperinflammation in a Murine Model of Secondary Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis (HLH)
Authors: Brown-Burke Fiona , Saadey Rachel , Mao Hsiao-Yin Charlene Charlene , Marra Paola , Brooks Eric , Wandtke Alexa , Hout Ian , Leon Sydney , Sharma Archisha , Yasin Aneeq , Cash Taylor , Ahmed Elshafa Hassan , Baiocchi Ethan James , Finoti Stephanie Scarlett , Zhang Xiaoli , Bhagwat Neha , Vaddi Kris , Scherle Peggy , Mozhenkova Anna , El-Ayachi Ikbale , Schenk Austin D. , Sloan Shelby L. , Whitman Kaylee , Helmig-Mason JoBeth , Steyn Sheldon , Klimaszewski Haley L. , Weist Jessica , Weigel Christoph , Koirala Shirsha , Alinari Lapo , Snyder Katiri , Ranganathan Parvathi , Chen Chia-Jo , Jordan Michael B. , Baiocchi Robert A. , Shindiapina Polina
Published: January 2025

Hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) is a rare but aggressive and potentially lethal hyperinflammatory syndrome characterized by pathologic immune activation and excessive production of proinflammatory cytokines leading to tissue damage and multisystem organ failure. There is an urgent need for the discovery of novel targets and development of therapeutic strategies to treat this rare but deadly syndrome. Protein Arginine Methyltransferase 5 (PRMT5) mediates T cell-based inflammatory responses, making it a potential actionable target for the treatment of HLH. Using CPG-1826 and anti-IL10R antibody, we induced murine secondary HLH in vivo with a marked expansion of splenic myeloid cell subsets and concurrent reduction of T and NK cell populations. PRMT5 expression was significantly upregulated in splenic T and NK lymphocytes as well as monocytes and dendritic cells in mice with HLH (p<0.05). Treatment with PRT382, a potent and selective PRMT5 inhibitor, significantly reduced physical signs of secondary HLH, including splenomegaly, hepatomegaly and anemia (p<0.0001 in each case), when compared to untreated mice. Inflammatory cytokines known to drive hyperinflammation in HLH, including IFNγ and IL-6 were reduced to healthy levels with PRT382 treatment (p>0.999 for both). PRT382 treatment also reduced the expansion of myeloid cell populations (p<0.0001) in mice with HLH, compared to untreated mice, while restoring T and NK cell numbers (p<0.001 for both). These results identify PRMT5 as a promising target for the management of secondary HLH and justify further exploration in this and other models of hyperinflammation.
D-mannose promotes diabetic wound healing through inhibiting advanced glycation end products formation in keratinocytes
Authors: Luo Jialiang , Wu Tianxing , Zhang Jing , Liang Zhicheng , Shao Weijie , Wang Di , Li Lei , Zuo Daming , Zhou Jia
Published: January 2025

Background

Diabetic chronic foot ulcers pose a significant therapeutic challenge around the world, resulting in adverse effects and complications in patients. D-mannose is enriched in cirtus peel and exerts beneficial effects among various diseases, especially against inflammation-related disorders.

Methods

Here, we examined the potential effect of D-mannose during wound healing process in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetes mice in vivo and by culturing keratinocytes under high glucose condition in vitro. The skin lesion healing was recorded in photos and evaluated by histochemical staining. What’s more, the advanced glycation end products (AGEs) concentration in blood and mice skin was quantified. Apoptotic cells were assessed by flow cytometry and Western blotting. Inflammatory cytokines and cellular differential gene expression levels were measured by real-time PCR. The expression of the AMPK/Nrf2/HO-1 signaling-related molecules was determined by Western blotting.

Results

We first found that topical supplementation of D-mannose remarkably improved skin wound healing in diabetes mice. Furthermore, both in vivo and in vitro experiments demonstrated that D-mannose reduced the AGEs generation. Mechanistically, D-mannose inhibited AGEs, then upregulated AMPK/Nrf2/HO-1 signaling in the context of high glucose to maintain keratinocyte normal functions, which positively influenced macrophage and fibroblast to accelerate diabetic wound healing. Noteworthily, these protective effects of D-mannose were abolished by the pretreatment with inhibitors of AGEs or AMPK.

Conclusion

As far as we know, this is the first study exploring the protective role of D-mannose on diabetic wound healing via topical supplementation. We find that D-mannose protects keratinocytes from high glucose stimulation via inhibition of AGEs formation as well as orchestrates inflammatory microenvironment in diabetic wounded skin, suggesting its supplementation as a potential therapy to promote refractory wound healing in diabetic patients.