bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reduced Modulation of Theta and Beta Oscillations Mediates Empathy Impairment in Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Han Jinying , Yu Liuzhenxiong , Wang Mengqi , Chen Xin , Zhao Ziye , Liu Pingping , Hu Lili , Lv Lingling , Xing Fengbo , Cao Ruihua , Ye Rong , Wang Kai , Hu Panpan
Published: February 2025

Background

Empathy is an inaccessible part of advanced social cognitive functions in humans. Impairment of empathy greatly affects the quality of life of patients with Parkinson's disease (PD) but the underlying neurophysiologic mechanisms have not been established.

Objectives

The dynamic process of brain oscillations in PD pain empathy was explored and the mechanism of empathy damage was studied.

Methods

A total of 27 patients with PD and 13 healthy controls were recruited to undergo a pain judgment task, and the event‐related potentials were recorded. This study compared the changes in theta and beta oscillations among two groups after the presentation of painful and neutral stimuli.

Results

Time–frequency analysis results revealed that patients with PD exhibited event‐related theta oscillation synchronization and beta oscillation desynchronization during pain empathy. Compared to healthy controls, patients with PD exhibited a reduced magnitude of beta oscillation desynchronization in response to painful stimuli and attenuated synchronization of theta oscillations induced by neutral stimuli. There are abnormal beta power differences between painful and neutral stimuli, while no differences were found in theta power in PD. Moreover, a positive correlation existed between the degree of beta oscillation desynchronization associated with painful stimuli and the accuracy of pain judgments.

Conclusion

Pain empathy deficits in PD were associated with reduced dynamic modulation of brain theta and beta oscillations.
Associations Between Elevated Rates of Depression, Anxiety, and PTSD Among ICU Survivors and Increased Mortality and Readmissions
Authors: Chang Chen‐Shu , Tsai Fuu‐Jen , Liao Chun‐Hui
Published: February 2025

Purpose

Intensive care unit (ICU) mortality has decreased, highlighting improved patient outcomes. However, other critical factors affect post‐ICU survival, including lasting physical, cognitive, and psychological challenges termed postintensive care syndrome (PICS), encompassing depression, anxiety, and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The prevalence of these conditions among ICU survivors is high and potentially linked to ICU treatment. This study aims to understand these factors using Taiwan's National Health Insurance Research Database (NHIRD), exploring their impact on mortality and readmission rates post‐ICU discharge.

Methods

The National Health Insurance (NHI) program in Taiwan, implemented in 1995, provides healthcare for nearly all residents. Its research arm, NHIRD, contains comprehensive medical data for nationwide studies. This research focuses on ICU patients with specific conditions from 2010 to 2018, using ICD codes for diagnosis. Statistical analyses include Cox proportional hazard models and logistic regression, aiming to assess the incidence and risks of anxiety/depression/PTSD.

Results

ICU patients showed a higher risk of anxiety/depression/PTSD compared to non‐ICU patients (adjusted HR = 1.17), with similar trends for anxiety and depression. Females, younger patients, those with higher CCI scores, on mechanical ventilators, and more extended hospital stays had increased odds of anxiety/depression/PTSD. ICU patients with anxiety/depression/PTSD faced increased risks of death and re‐admission, especially among older males with comorbidities.

Conclusion

This study discovered higher anxiety and depression rates post‐ICU compared to general ward patients, particularly among younger individuals, females, and those with longer hospital stays. Factors such as higher comorbidity scores and mechanical ventilation use were linked to lower odds. Addressing mental health postdischarge is crucial, especially for at‐risk groups.
To Explore the Relationship Between Sustainability, Digital Technology, and Sustainable Development Goals
Authors: Saha Aditi , Raut Rakesh , Kumar Mukesh , Ghoshal Sudishna
Published: February 2025

In the era of rapid technological advancement and growing global challenges, the interaction between sustainability, digital technology (DT), and sustainable development goals (SDGs) presents a vital opportunity for transformative action. This convergence opens doors to innovative solutions for addressing critical environmental and societal issues while advancing economic progress. Therefore, this study aims to explore the intricate relationship between sustainability, digital technology, and SDGs. A systematic literature review and Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta‐Analyses (PRISMA) protocol have been used to comprehend the impact of DT on promoting SDGs across diverse sectors while enhancing sustainability. By analyzing the 141 articles, it could be concluded that achieving sustainability by adhering to the SDGs requires effective integration of DT and a thorough understanding of the policy reforms and SDG knowledge that support both sustainability goals and digitalization. The findings also indicate that achieving the SDGs in the era of digitalization relies on the collective and collaborative ability to leverage digital technology as a crucial tool and resource for positive transformation while mitigating its adverse impacts. Furthermore, the successful integration of DT with SDGs requires a comprehensive approach that encompasses technological innovation, a supportive governance framework, and capacity building.
Avoiding Harm by Doing Good. The Substantive Role of ESG Payments for Preventing ESG Misconduct
Authors: García‐Meca Emma , Martínez‐Ferrero Jennifer , Hussain Nazim
Published: February 2025

This paper examines whether an ESG‐based compensation policy plays a substantive or symbolic role in the prevention of firm ESG‐related misconduct. We anticipate that companies linking ESG to board compensation will experience fewer ESG‐related misconducts, aiming to avoid adverse consequences, mitigate market reactions, and minimize harm to stakeholders. We also expect that institutional ownership strengthens this relationship. By analyzing a sample of European firms between 2015 and 2020, we found that boards with an ESG‐linked compensation policy reduce irresponsible actions, confirming the substantive role of ESG‐linked compensation in curbing ESG misconduct. Our findings also show a complementary effect of institutional investors in this association. Finally, we found that variations in negative ESG media coverage of misconducts that result from undertaking ESG‐linked compensation policy can be explained by differences in legal systems and stakeholder orientation between countries. Specifically, our results suggest that ESG‐linked compensation only plays a meaningful substantive role in constraining ESG wrongdoing in civil law countries and those characterized by greater public enforcement, increased control over corruption, and higher environmental awareness.
Advancing Bipolar Electrochemistry for Targeted Deposition of Biocompatible Polymers in Electrolyte‐Free Solutions via Finite Element Modeling
Authors: Wagner Michal , Brady Áine , Doyle Oisín F. , Forster Robert J.
Published: February 2025

The spatially controlled, template‐free, deposition of electroactive and biocompatible materials on 3D objects is of great interest for wireless cell stimulation intended for diverse applications ranging from electroceuticals to advanced sensor development. Bipolar electrochemistry provides the possibility of depositing electrically conducting polymers controlled through the (shaped) electric field distribution. A second advantage is that electrochemistry can be performed in electrolyte‐free media potentially removing the “interfering” effect of added electrolyte. Here, poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT) films have been deposited on bipolar electrodes directly in ultrapure water. Significantly, the deposition patterns cannot be fully explained using a linear change in the solution‐phase potential, which is a common assumption for bipolar electrochemical systems. 3D finite element modeling and diffusive mass transport considerations have been combined to map the electric field distribution in this very low conductivity medium and demonstrate that homogenous rather than heterogeneous electron transfer is likely to play an important role in polymer deposition. Moreover, modeling predictions were compared to electrochemical impedance and cyclic voltammetry results and non‐linear behaviours qualitatively matched, through film capacitances, and deposition patterns. The proposed framework opens up significant opportunities for the template‐free deposition of various electroactive materials on bipolar electrodes in low‐conductivity solutions.
Electrochemical Behavior and Reclamation of Beryllium Scrap in Molten Salt
Authors: Chen Yuzhen , Li Shaolong , Lv Zepeng , Luo Wen , Qiao Peng , Wang Dongxin , He Jilin , Song Jianxun
Published: February 2025

Beryllium is a crucial strategic metal characterized by its exceptional properties, which has facilitated its extensive application across various high‐tech industries. However, despite advancements in refining techniques, the purification of industrial‐grade beryllium scrap remains insufficiently explored. This gap has led to challenges such as resource waste and environmental concerns. This study aims to bridge this gap by investigating the electrolytic refining process of beryllium scrap through molten salt electrolysis. Linear sweep voltammetry (LSV), cyclic voltammetry (CV), and square wave voltammetry (SWV) are employed to analyze both anodic dissolution and cathodic reduction behaviors. The study demonstrates that beryllium undergoes a single‐step, two‐electron transfer reduction process, while impurity elements are separated as anodic slime. The effects of current density on beryllium deposition morphology and removal efficiency have been further investigated. This research provides a novel approach to beryllium scrap purification, contributing significantly to the optimization of the beryllium supply chain and offering valuable insights into sustainable metal refinement practices.
Understanding the Photophysical Properties of Pd and Pt Transition‐Metal Isocorroles: A Theoretical Investigation
Authors: Russo Nino , Spiegel Maciej
Published: February 2025

The main photophysical properties of recently synthesized Pd– and Pt–isocorroles, characterized and proposed as potential photosensitizers in photodynamic therapy, have been investigated and rationalized using density functional theory and its time‐dependent formulation. Both the 5 and 10‐(2‐pyrrolyl)‐5,10,15‐tris(4‐methylphenyl) isomers have been considered. In addition to determining the minimum energy structures of the ground and excited states, we have calculated the excitation energies, spin‐orbit coupling constants, and nonradiative intersystem crossing rate constants. Results show that the photoactivity of both Pd and Pt complexes mainly depends on their singlet–triplet energy gap, which is necessary to promote the O2[[EQUATION]] excitation. The study of the photophysical properties of the free ligands indicates that this trend is common for both the free and Pt– and Pd–isocorroles.
Flavanone‐Enabled CuAAC Reaction: Noninnocent Reagents Driving a Mononuclear Mechanism Over the Dinuclear Paradigm
Authors: Ávila Eloah Pereira , de Oliveira Larissa A. , Neto Brenno A. D. , de Almeida Mauro V. , Pliego Josefredo Rodriguez
Published: February 2025

In this work, we report the use of the CuAAC (copper‐catalyzed azide‐alkyne cycloaddition) reaction to obtain different triazole derivatives bridged to the naringenin skeleton, leading to the combination of a triazole pharmacophoric group with a bioactive flavanone. The generation of Cu(I) active species was done using CuSO4 salts and sodium ascorbate, resulting in moderate to high yields when the DMSO‐water binary system was used as solvents. Mechanistic studies were done using density functional theory calculations and high‐resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS). We investigated the reduction process of Cu(II) to Cu(I), and the role of mononuclear and dinuclear copper species in the catalysis of the cycloaddition reaction. Our combined theoretical and experimental results indicate that the mechanism involving a single copper species is taking place, with the cycloaddition step being the rate‐determining step. The calculations indicate that the mechanism involving two copper species has the deprotonation of the coordinated terminal alkyne as the rate‐determining step.
The European Federation for Medicinal Chemistry and Chemical Biology (EFMC) Best Practice Initiative: Hit to Lead
Authors: Quancard Jean , Bach Anders , Borsari Chiara , Craft Russell , Gnamm Christian , Guéret Stéphanie M. , Hartung Ingo V. , Koolman Hannes F. , Laufer Stefan , Lepri Susan , Messinger Josef , Ritter Kurt , Sbardella Gianluca , Unzue Lopez Andrea , Willwacher Marina K. , Cox Brian , Young Robert J.
Published: February 2025

The Hit to Lead (H2L) process is an integral part of contemporary drug discovery, encompassing the optimisation of validated Hit structures into Lead molecules. High quality leads build confidence, through activity and property profiles as well as preliminary biological data, which might include validating pharmacologic hypotheses along the way, indicating that further investment in the structure(s) and target would be worthwhile. Leads have line of sight to a development candidate and bring an understanding of what priorities Lead Optimisation should address. In this set of best practices, we detail the essential criteria that characterise a good lead, which include establishing SAR from analogues and assessing preliminary DMPK indicators, selectivity and early safety parameters. We highlight the importance of identifying liabilities of the lead series and demonstrating that each can be individually modulated whilst maintaining on target potency. We make the case for having physicochemical properties as critical optimisation parameters and how ligand efficiency metrics can enable this. Then we go over general tactics that can be used to convert hits into a lead series. These include essential steps that, when performed early, increase the chance of success such as deconstructive SAR, pharmacophore and bioactive conformation determination and scaffold optimisation. Finally, we suggest decision‐making criteria to substantiate confidence in further investment or, as importantly, making a recommendation to cease further work on a series.
Load‐Aware Multi‐Objective Optimization of Controller and Datastore Placement in Distributed Sdns
Authors: Xingyuan Kang , Takahashi Keichi , Nakasan Chawanat , Ichikawa Kohei , Iida Hajimu
Published: February 2025

In distributed Software Defined Networking (SDN), multiple controllers need to maintain a consistent view of the network state among themselves using consensus algorithms, introducing additional communication overhead and network delay, especially in large‐scale networks. Therefore, optimizing controller placement presents significant challenges, as it must account not only for the delay between switches and controllers but also for the delay introduced by consensus algorithms. Additionally, SDN controllers have limited capacity in terms of the number of switches they can manage and the network events they can process. Improper placement of controllers can lead to longer message processing times, increased queuing delays, or even controller failures. Thus, achieving balanced workloads among controllers is essential. This study introduces and validates a practical Flow Setup Time (FST) model to measure controller response times. We proposed an advanced multi‐objective optimization approach that incorporates the Variance of Load Balancing (VOLB), to determine the optimal placements of controllers and datastore nodes involved in processing consensus algorithms. Furthermore, we applied this optimization method to different types of real networks from the Internet Topology Zoo dataset. Based on experimental findings, we identified key factors to consider when selecting optimal placement strategies, including the trade‐offs between the number of controllers, the number of datastore nodes, FST, and VOLB.
Implementing Pharmacogenomics Clinical Decision Support: A Comprehensive Tutorial on how to Integrate the Epic Genomics Module
Authors: Hall Bradley T. , Eken Eda , Cavallari Larisa H. , Duarte Julio D. , Wiisanen Kristin W. , Cicali Emily J. , Nguyen Khoa A.
Published: February 2025

In the past decade, pharmacogenomic (PGx) testing to predict drug response have emerged into clinical care. Clinical decision support (CDS) has and continues to play a key role in educating prescribers and facilitating the integration of pharmacogenomic results into routine clinical practice. The Epic Genomics module, an add‐on to Epic's base clinical software, allows for storage of structured genomic data and provides electronic heath record tools designed with PGx CDS implementation in mind. In early 2022, the University of Florida Health deployed the Genomics module. This tutorial outlines the steps taken by the University of Florida Health Precision Medicine Program to implement Epic's Genomic Module at University of Florida Health and identifies key factors for a successful implementation.
Cooperative Resource Allocation Using Optimized Heterogeneous Context‐Aware Graph Convolutional Networks in 5G Wireless Networks
Authors: Godi Rakesh Kumar , Panchal Soumyashree M. , Agarwal Swathi
Published: February 2025

Wireless personal communication is becoming more and more popular due to the rapid development of 5G communication networks. Modern wireless personal communication systems can be difficult to optimize due to the criteria for transmission speed and quality of service. In this manuscript, a cooperative resource allocation using optimized heterogeneous context‐aware graph convolutional networks in 5G wireless networks (CRA‐HCAGCN‐5GWN) is proposed. Here, the cooperative resource allocation is used for channel information on a small scale rather than typical resource allocation when the channel environment is rapidly changing. HCAGCN fails to specify optimization techniques to identify optimal parameters for accurate cooperative resource allocation. Therefore, the Giant Trevally Optimizer (GTO) is employed to optimize the HCAGCN, which accurately optimizes resource allocation. The proposed CRA‐HCAGCN‐5GWN is implemented, and the performance metrics, like mean square error (MSE), minimum mean square error (MMSE), mean absolute error (MAE), root mean square error (RMSE), throughput, energy efficiency, and consumption time, are analyzed. The performance of the CRA‐HCAGCN‐5GWN approach attains 17.20%, 25.81%, and 32.18% lower mean square error; 16.40%, 28.81%, and 30.18% higher throughput; and 18.30%, 25.41%, and 31.08% lower energy efficiency when analyzed with existing methods.
Impact of Metaheuristic Optimization Algorithms on Wireless Network Coverage Enhancement With Reconfigurable Intelligent Surfaces
Authors: Panuganti Nitin , Ranjan Pinku , Shukla Anupam
Published: February 2025

Reconfigurable intelligent surfaces are a transformative technological advancement in wireless networks toward enhancing coverage and signal strength by exploiting intelligent, programmable surfaces. This paper discusses the application of metaheuristic optimization to configure reconfigurable intelligent surfaces for performance enhancement in wireless communications. Reconfigurable intelligent surface (RIS) technology based on programmable surfaces dynamically adjusts a radio environment, thereby having an impact on signal quality enhancement and coverage. We test several optimization algorithms, including genetic algorithm (GA), cuckoo search (CS), harmony search (HS), ant colony optimization (ACO), differential evolution (DE), dual annealing, gradient descent, tabu search, and the bee algorithm. The results show that GA explores the solution space. CS and HS balance well between exploration and exploitation. ACO and DE find paths and parameters efficiently, and dual annealing excels in escaping local optima. Tabu search and the bee algorithm also provide strong performance in the avoidance of local minima. RIS elements can integrate highly into the network to enhance its performance, leading to better‐received signal strength and improved coverage. The results have the potential to optimize wireless networks by combining the use of RIS technology with advanced algorithms such as those described here and call for further research in hybrid optimization approaches and complex network scenarios.
Maternal Childhood Trauma and Offspring Hypothalamic–Pituitary–Adrenal Axis Function from Infancy to 6 Years of Age
Authors: Loheide‐Niesmann Lisa , Beijers Roseriet , de Weerth Carolina , Cima Maaike
Published: February 2025

Childhood trauma experiences can carry over to the next generation, affecting the health and behavior of survivors’ children. However, the mechanisms underlying these intergenerational effects of childhood trauma are not yet clear. One mechanism may be changes in children's hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis. This preregistered longitudinal study examined associations between 170 mothers’ childhood trauma experiences (maltreatment, family and peer violence) and their children's cortisol reactivity and total circadian cortisol output at 12 months and 6 years of age. Multilevel regression analyses revealed that maternal childhood trauma was not significantly associated with child cortisol reactivity or total circadian cortisol output, neither at 12 months nor at 6 years of age. Thus, we found no evidence in this community sample that maternal childhood trauma impacts young children's HPA axis functioning. Exploratory analyses revealed moderation effects of maternal prenatal psychopathology and prenatal circadian cortisol slope: in mothers with high prenatal psychopathology or circadian cortisol slope, maternal childhood trauma was positively associated with child total circadian cortisol output, while this association was negative in mothers with low psychopathology or circadian cortisol slope. Future research should replicate these findings in older children and more severely trauma‐exposed populations and further explore moderators of this intergenerational association.
Genetic Evidence Reveals Distinct Lineage of Chinese Pangolin in Nepal: Insights From Scat and Blood Samples for Conservation and Wildlife Forensics
Authors: Hogan Fiona , Wedrowicz Faye , Pd. Khatiwada Ambika , Dev Joshi Janardan , Wasser Sam , Wright Wendy
Published: February 2025

Pangolins face critical threats from illegal trade and habitat loss, making their conservation a global priority. Despite their ecological and conservation significance, these elusive creatures remain poorly understood, particularly regarding their phylogeography and genetic diversity. This study successfully isolated DNA from two types of pangolin scat samples (whole scat and swabs) and blood that had been stored frozen for up to 3 years. A mitochondrial cytochrome b (424 bp) sequence was reliably generated from both types of scat samples, irrespective of whether the scat appeared in ‘good’ or ‘poor’ condition at the time of collection, and from the blood samples. Sanger sequencing identified four novel cytochrome b haplotypes, with distinct variations observed across sampling regions in Nepal (central and east). A comparison with reference sequences from China, Taiwan and Thailand revealed that the Chinese pangolins in Nepal represent a genetically distinct variant, differing by 15–19 base pairs from these other populations. These findings underscore significant genetic differentiation of Chinese pangolins in Nepal, with implications for the species' conservation and management. The methods described in this study are robust and adaptable, offering a valuable framework for broader genetic studies of pangolin populations across Nepal. Such approaches could facilitate the genetic mapping of pangolin variations, aiding in the identification of significant populations, the evaluation of conservation interventions and forensic applications to combat illegal poaching. This work emphasises the critical role of genetics in understanding and protecting pangolins, offering insights that are vital for their long‐term conservation.
Catalytic Dehydrogenation of Lauric Acid and a Potential Use in Polyester Synthesis
Authors: Santos Correa Luis , Stapf Emma , Nonner Timo , Meier Michael A. R.
Published: February 2025

The substitution of depleting fossil resources by renewable resources is of paramount importance, especially for polymer chemistry with its large production volume, in order to guarantee a more sustainable future. Herein, a new three‐step reaction sequence was developed to synthesize renewable fatty acid–based dimethyl esters from saturated fatty acids. The sequence consists of a catalytic dehydrogenation with molecular oxygen as oxidant, an esterification with methanol, and a dimerization reaction with dithiols via thia‐Michael addition. Three new dimethyl esters were thus synthesized from lauric acid and fully characterized via infrared, 1H NMR, and 13C NMR spectroscopy as well as mass spectrometry. Polyesters with molecular weights ranging from 26.0 to 31.8 kDa were obtained by polycondensation of each dimethyl ester with 1,12‐dodecanediol. Methyl crotonate–based polymers were prepared for comparison with the fatty acid–derived materials. Thermogravimetric analysis revealed that the long side chains led to improved thermal stability, and differential scanning calorimetry showed side chain crystallization for one polymer.

Practical Applications Renewable dimethyl esters are valuable monomers for the sustainable synthesis of polyesters and polyamides. The herein‐reported synthesis strategy valorized saturated fatty acids, a typically less useful resource for polymer chemistry.
Perceived motivational climate, doping attitudes, and doping temptation among elite adolescent athletes: The moderating role of perfectionism
Authors: Kristensen Jan Åge , Kavussanu Maria , Ommundsen Yngvar
Published: February 2025

A sports culture that emphasizes normative success, as evident in a performance motivational climate, may encourage athletes to use prohibited performance‐enhancing substances. Athletes with perfectionistic tendencies are believed to be particularly tempted to doping when finding themselves in such sporting environments. In this study, we examined whether perceived motivational climate was related to doping temptation directly and indirectly via doping attitudes and whether perfectionism moderated this indirect relationship. The sample comprised 420 adolescent athletes aged 16–18 years (mean age = 16.94 and standard deviation = 0.81) recruited from five Norwegian sport academy high schools. Regression analysis revealed that athletes' perceptions of a performance climate were positively related to their temptation to dope both directly and indirectly via doping attitudes, and that this indirect relationship was stronger among athletes who were moderate or high in their perfectionistic concerns. No direct or indirect relationships were found between mastery climate and doping temptation, nor did perfectionistic strivings moderate the indirect relationship between mastery climate and doping temptation via doping attitudes. Taken together, our findings suggest that athletes who perceive their sport environment as performance‐oriented and believe that the benefits of using prohibited substances outweigh the drawbacks are more tempted to dope. Moreover, this tendency is particularly notable among athletes who are moderately or strongly concerned about making mistakes (i.e., have perfectionistic concerns).
Variant optimization for a green ammonia pipeline: Case study of Sauda/Norway
Authors: Erharter Georg H. , Stein Eivind , Halawy Ghostavo E.
Published: February 2025

The transition to sustainable energy is crucial for addressing anthropogenic climate change, with green ammonia emerging as a key alternative to fossil fuels. Iverson eFuels AS is planning a green ammonia plant in Sauda, Norway, including a ca. 2800 m long pipeline tunnel to transport ammonia to a storage area at the fjord. This article elaborates on the early‐phase variant optimization of the tunnel design, conducted at a pre‐Front‐End Engineering Design (pre‐FEED) stage with limited ground data. Despite common concerns about time and effort, advanced 3D ground modeling and parametric modeling were employed due to the project‘s complex ground conditions and specific technical requirements. These digital tools enabled efficient and comprehensive design assessments, leading to a tunnel route that is optimized with respect to multiple different objectives. Furthermore, the advanced 3D modeling helped to heavily revise a more complicated previous longer pipeline tunnel that also included a valve pit. This case study highlights the benefits of using advanced modeling techniques early in the project lifecycle, demonstrating how they can enhance both the efficiency and quality of engineering solutions, even with limited initial data.
Seroepidemiological Assessment of Bordetella pertussis in Jahrom, Southern Iran: A Cross‐Sectional Study
Authors: Raufi Rahim , Zareian‐Jahromi Fatemeh , Zangeneh Saba , Rajabi Jalil , Shahriarirad Reza
Published: February 2025

Background

Bordetella pertussis, the causative agent of whooping cough, is a significant contributor to recurrent persistent cough across all age groups, including vaccinated individuals. This seroepidemiological study aims to address the gap in understanding pertussis incidence by investigating its occurrence in individuals with persistent cough and describing the characteristics of affected patients admitted to clinical centers in Jahrom, Southwest Iran.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study enrolled 110 patients with a cough persisting for at least 2 weeks, admitted to clinical centers in Jahrom, Iran. Blood samples were collected at baseline and on day 21 of follow‐up. Serum samples were analyzed for anti‐pertussis toxin immunoglobulin G (anti‐PT‐IgG) levels using an enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. Demographic factors, including age, gender, occupation, area of residence, and family size, were also evaluated.

Results

Among the 110 participants, 77 (70%) were female, and seven patients (6.4%) tested seropositive for anti‐PT‐IgG. No significant associations were observed between pertussis incidence and the analyzed variables, including age, gender, occupation, area of residence (urban vs. rural), and family size (p > 0.05). These findings underscore the importance of enhancing vaccination coverage to reduce the prevalence of B. pertussis in the community.

Conclusion

This study highlights the occurrence of pertussis in individuals presenting solely with a persistent cough, absent of classic symptoms. The findings emphasize the need for healthcare providers to conduct detailed assessments and utilize rapid diagnostic methods for timely detection. This is particularly crucial in regions with high vaccination rates but limited awareness of pertussis recurrence.
Marketing Status and Brand‐Name Drug Prices: Evidence From Rx‐To‐OTC Switch
Authors: Lin Lin , Wang Bo
Published: February 2025

This study examines the impact of marketing status on brand‐name pricing by exploiting Prescription to over‐the‐counter (Rx‐to‐OTC) switches between 2001 and 2016. Using a Stacked difference‐in‐differences design, we find that the retail prices of brand‐name drugs reduce substantially following an Rx‐to‐OTC switch, while accounting for potential confounding factors related to patent expiration and generic entry. We show that the reduction in branded prices is primarily driven by increases in patient price elasticity in the OTC market. These results highlight the need to improve patient price sensitivity to address the rising prices of brand‐name prescription drugs in the United States, especially those with characteristics similar to over‐the‐counter drugs.
Association between leiomyoma characteristics and perinatal complications: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Tian Yu‐Cui , Ding Xin , Wu Jian‐Hong , Wang Hai‐Xia , Dai Yin‐Mei
Published: February 2025

Objective

To evaluate the relationship of leiomyoma characteristics with perinatal outcomes.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study was conducted. Women whose pregnancy was complicated with leiomyoma were recruited, and pregnant women without leiomyomas were enrolled as a control group. Demographic data, leiomyoma ultrasound characteristics, and pregnancy outcomes were collected. Subsequently, antepartum, intrapartum, postpartum, and neonatal complications were analyzed.

Results

The overall rate of leiomyomas in pregnancy was 5.46% (4393/80510). Out of the 932 pregnancies studied, 632 were affected by leiomyoma. Women with leiomyomas exhibited significantly higher age, pre‐pregnancy BMI, gravidity, and in vitro fertilization‐embryo transfer rate. The occurrence of antepartum, intrapartum, and postpartum complications was influenced by different features of leiomyomas. Among leiomyoma with diameter of 9 cm or greater, cervical or submucous types were detrimental. In the multivariate linear regression analyses, a leiomyoma with diameter of at least 9 cm during pregnancy was independently associated with preterm birth, cesarean section, preterm premature rupture of membranes, and postpartum hemorrhage.

Conclusion

The presence of leiomyoma of 9 cm or more increases the risk of antepartum, intrapartum, and postpartum complications; therefore, pre‐conception myomectomy can be considered. For leiomyoma 7–9 cm, extensive discussions between patients and clinicians should be conducted. In women with leiomyomas smaller than 7 cm, the risk of obstetric complications is similar to that in women without leiomyomas, except for those with cervical or submucous leiomyomas.
Brain Tumors Classification in MRIs Based on Personalized Federated Distillation Learning With Similarity‐Preserving
Authors: Wu Bo , Shi Donghui , Aguilar Jose
Published: February 2025

Owing to legal restrictions and privacy preservation, it is impractical to consolidate medical data across multiple regions for model training, leading to difficulties in data sharing. Federated learning (FL) methods present a solution to this issue. However, traditional FL encounters difficulties in handling non‐independent identically distributed (Non‐IID) data, where the data distribution across clients is heterogeneous and not uniformly distributed. Although personalized federated learning (PFL) can tackle the Non‐IID issue, it has drawbacks such as lower accuracy rates or high memory usage. Furthermore, knowledge‐distillation‐based PFL exhibits shortcomings in model learning capabilities. In this study, we propose FedSPD, a novel federated learning framework that integrates similarity‐preserving knowledge distillation to bridge the gap between global knowledge and local models. FedSPD reduces discrepancies by aligning feature representations through cosine similarity at the feature level, enabling local models to assimilate global knowledge while preserving personalized characteristics. This approach enhances model performance in heterogeneous environments while mitigating privacy risks by sharing only averaged logits, in line with stringent medical data security requirements. Extensive experiments were conducted on three datasets: MNIST, CIFAR‐10, and brain tumor MRI, comparing FedSPD with nine state‐of‐the‐art FL and PFL algorithms. On general datasets, under the IID setting, FedSPD achieved performance comparable to existing methods. In Non‐IID scenarios, we employed the Dirichlet distribution to control the data distribution across clients, allowing us to model and assess non‐uniform data partitions in our FL settings. FedSPD demonstrated exceptional performance, with accuracy improvements of up to 77.77% over traditional FL methods and up to 4.19% over PFL methods. On the brain tumor MRI dataset, FedSPD outperformed most algorithms under the IID condition. In Non‐IID settings, it exhibited even greater advantages, with accuracy improvements of up to 78.41% over traditional FL methods and up to 10.55% over PFL methods. Additionally, FedSPD significantly reduced computational overhead, shortening each training round by up to 67.25% compared to other PFL methods and reducing parameter size by up to 49.34%, thereby improving scalability and efficiency. By effectively integrating global and personalized features, FedSPD not only enhanced model generalization across heterogeneous medical datasets but also strengthened clinical decision‐making, contributing to more accurate diagnoses and better patient prognosis. This scalable and privacy‐preserving solution meets the practical demands of healthcare applications.
Sarcopenia and Insulin Resistance Collective Effect on Atrial Fibrillation Risk: A Non‐Diabetic Elderly Cohort Study
Authors: Liu Weike , Wang Xin , Guo Yuqi , Gao Yumei , Song Huajing , Yao Yanli , Zhang Hua , Liu Zhendong , Wang Juan
Published: February 2025

Background

Appendicular skeletal muscle mass index (ASMI), a crucial indicator of sarcopenia and estimated glucose disposal rate (eGDR), a surrogate marker of insulin resistance (IR), are associated with the risk of cardiovascular diseases. However, it remains unclear whether the collective effects, including the impact of the temporal progression of ASMI and eGDR, affect atrial fibrillation (AF) risk. This study aims to elucidate the association between the collective effects of ASMI and eGDR and AF risk in the non‐diabetic older population.

Methods

A total of 8060 non‐diabetic older individuals from a community‐based cohort study were used to prospectively analyse the association between the collective effects of baseline ASMI and eGDR and AF risk. Among them, 7651 were eligible and used for dual‐trajectory analysis of the association between dual trajectory of ASMI and eGDR and AF risk. The temporal development of ASMI and eGDR over time was determined using a dual‐trajectory model. Statistical analyses involved restricted cubic splines and Fine–Gray competing risk models, adjusting for potential confounders.

Results

In the prospective analysis, the hazard ratio (HR) of AF was 1.762 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.528–2.032) in the low ASMI group compared to the normal ASMI group in total participants. Restricted cubic splines analysis demonstrated L‐shaped associations between AF risk and ASMI and eGDR, with inflection points at 7.23 kg/m2 and 7.85 mg/kg/min, respectively. Low ASMI and moderate and low eGDR exhibited a significant interplay for increasing AF risk (HR: 1.290 and 1.666, 95% CI: 1.136–1.464 and 1.492–1.861, respectively, padj. < 0.001). One‐SD increment ASMI and eGDR synergistically reduced AF risk (HR: 0.896, 95% CI: 0.839–0.957, padj. < 0.001). In the dual‐trajectory analysis for total participants, five distinct dual trajectories of ASMI and eGDR were identified. Group 4, characterized by moderate‐stable ASMI and moderate‐stable eGDR, exhibited the lowest incidence of AF (7.03 per 1000 person‐years) and was used as a reference for further analyses. Group 1, characterized by high‐decrease ASMI and high‐decrease eGDR, had the highest AF risk (HR: 2.255, 95% CI: 1.769–2.876, padj. < 0.001), followed by Group 5, with high‐decrease ASMI and low‐stable eGDR (HR: 1.893, 95% CI: 1.491–2.403, padj. < 0.001) when compared to Group 4 after adjustment for potential confounders including baseline ASMI and eGDR.

Conclusions

The collective effects of ASMI and eGDR are significantly associated with AF risk in the non‐diabetic older population. Collective management of skeletal muscle mass and IR might be a useful and effective management strategy for preventing and controlling AF.
Differentiate Between Angioedema From Cellulitis in Pediatric Patients With Periorbital Swelling on Point‐of‐Care Ultrasound
Authors: Tay Ee Tein , Tsung James W. , Lin Yue Jay , Sanders Jennifer E.
Published: February 2025

Purpose

This study evaluated the use of point‐of‐care (POCUS) to differentiate between angioedema and cellulitis in pediatric patients who presented to the emergency department (ED) with periorbital swelling from suspected insect bites.

Methods

Subanalysis of patients under 21 years old with periorbital swelling from suspected insect bites was performed in patients presenting to the ED. Participating physicians received hands‐on soft tissue ultrasound training prior to study enrollment. Pre‐ and post‐POCUS diagnoses and findings, disposition, ED discharge diagnosis, additional imaging studies, and treatment medications were recorded. Patients received telephone follow‐up 1 week after the visit.

Results

Twenty‐three subjects were enrolled. Twenty (86.9%) cases had a pre‐POCUS diagnosis of allergic skin reaction, one (4.3%) had cellulitis, and two (8.7%) were undetermined. After POCUS, providers changed diagnoses and treatment management on five (21.7%) patients. Ultrasound features of linear bands were identified in 22 ultrasound images suggesting angioedema. No patients received further imaging or were admitted for hospitalization.

Conclusions

POCUS may serve as an adjunct tool in differentiating between cellulitis and angioedema in patients with periorbital swelling from local allergic skin reactions from insect bites and decreasing unnecessary imaging studies and hospital admissions.
Controls of Climate and Catchment Behaviour on Runoff Response Across Large‐Scale Sample
Authors: Mingjuan Yang , Zhanlong Gong , Tao Pang
Published: February 2025

Recent research has extensively examined the response of runoff to climate change. However, the physical mechanisms underlying runoff responses in changing climate conditions remain poorly understood. To address this gap, this study uses measured streamflow and meteorological data from the public GAGES‐II database to investigate the physical controls influencing runoff responses to climate and catchment behaviour across more than 1000 catchments in the contiguous United States. Eighteen flow signatures and 56 indicators related to catchment attributes were analysed and grouped using a hierarchical clustering method, resulting in the classification of the 1000+ catchments into ten clusters, each with distinct characteristics. Within each cluster, we explored the patterns of runoff response, focusing on runoff changes and sensitivity for each flow signature and catchment attribute. Our findings indicate that flow signatures such as runoff ratio, annual runoff, and the 95th percentile runoff significantly affect total runoff changes. Evapotranspiration displays a trade‐off relationship with overall runoff changes but shows a synergistic relationship with Richard Baker's rapid runoff. Furthermore, the runoff changes driven by catchment attributes align with the total changes, suggesting that catchment behaviour predominantly influences runoff generation processes. Climate factors tend to exert greater influence in arid and semi‐arid catchments.
Climatological Analysis of Variability in Snow Cover Features Across Iran During 1981–2022
Authors: Sadeghi Marzieh , Asakereh Hossein , Darand Mohammad
Published: February 2025

The present study aimed to conduct a climatological analysis of snow cover variability in Iran using daily snow cover data collected from meteorological stations between 1 January 1981, and 31 December 2022. Stations were selected based on the criterion of having at least one day of snowfall over 1 cm in depth during the study period. The analysis focused on nine key indices: First snow cover day (FSC), last snow cover day (LSC), snow cover duration (SCD), mean duration of continuous snow cover (SCDmean), maximum duration of continuous snow cover (SCDmax), snow‐free days (SFD), snow spell duration index (SSDI), number of snow cover events (NSC) and depth of snow cover (DSC). The temporal analysis revealed substantial variability in the FSC, ranging from October 10th in regions above 2000 m in the northwest to January 30th along the Iranian coast of the Caspian Sea. The LSC also varied from January 20 to April 20 in the low‐elevation regions of the Zagros in the south to April 20 in the Alborz in the North. Moreover, the SCD was over 160 days a year in the Alborz mountain in the north. Spatial analysis indicated a significant correlation between snow cover indices and elevation, longitude and latitude in Iran's mountainous regions. Results indicated a notable increase in FSC in most parts of the country, alongside a decreasing trend in LSC. On average, FSC advanced by 2 days per decade towards winter, while LSC shifted approximately −0.82 days per decade towards winter. Additionally, SCD, NSC, DSC and SSDI exhibited decreasing trends while SFD increased.
Factors influencing daily nest survival rates of Aleutian terns in the Kodiak Archipelago, Alaska
Authors: Tengeres Jill E. , Dugger Katie M. , Corcoran Robin M. , Lyons Donald E.
Published: February 2025

The Aleutian tern (Onychoprion aleuticus) is a species of high conservation concern in Alaska, USA, owing to large declines at known breeding locations since the 1960s. The small population size and ephemeral behavior of this species have limited the collection of basic biological information and hindered the identification of potential drivers of this decline. Significant unknowns include the factors, and their relative importance, influencing nest survival. To investigate these questions, we estimated daily nest survival (DNS) for 148 nests from 5 breeding colonies during 2017 to 2020 in the Kodiak Archipelago, Alaska with 105 monitored using remote cameras. We used the nest survival model in program MARK to estimate DNS rates as a function of colony location, year, within‐season time trends, vegetation cover and height, and 6 daily weather covariates. Our top model suggested that DNS rates increased with vegetation height, decreased as the season progressed, and included a significant interaction between year and colony. Average nest success (i.e., percent chance that a nest survived to hatch) over the 22‐day incubation period varied by colony but was generally very low, averaging 1.2% (95% CI = 0–11%) in 2017–2018 to 14% (95% CI = 0.1–38%) in 2019–2020 across all colonies. The importance of year in the model suggests that a large‐scale annual driver, like food availability, may have played an important role in this species' breeding success. A severe marine heatwave was present in the Gulf of Alaska during 2014–2016 and our results suggest that some effects of this anomalous event, such as reduced prey availability, lingered even after temperatures returned to normal. Additionally, the variation in DNS across colony locations indicated that local factors, such as predation pressure, may also drive significant variation in Aleutian tern productivity. These findings suggest that a combination of local factors and climate change may be important drivers of the >90% decline in Alaska's breeding population of Aleutian terns.