bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Disappearing Façades: The Challenges Behind Asbestos-Containing Façade Materials Heritage Value and Significance from a Curator’s Viewpoint
Authors: Ruuska-Jauhijärvi Liisa Katariina
Published: February 2025

Asbestos-containing materials have been commonly used in the past and they embody the construction ideals of their time, both technically and in the images created for consumers. Because the materials cannot be repaired or restored, they are exceptional compared to other façade materials. This makes their valuation, protection, and conservation challenging. Because the cultural-historical significance and future of asbestos containing façade materials have not been studied widely in Finland, I address this gap in the field with my research. I approach the topic as a broader phenomenon through the challenges related to the valuation and protection of modern built heritage. I focus on the cultural-historical significance of asbestos-containing façade materials and the implications of their removal, also recognizing the aspect of asbestos as difficult heritage. To enhance understanding, a thematic inventory is presented as a research method.
Embolization of middle meningeal artery (EMMA) for non-acute subdural hematoma: Insight from recent randomized trials and meta-analysis
Authors: Shankar Jai
Published: February 2025

Embolization of the middle meningeal artery (EMMA) has emerged as a promising treatment for non-acute subdural hematoma (NASDH), either as an adjunct to surgical drainage or as a primary intervention in patients not undergoing surgery. Recent randomized controlled trials (RCTs) have investigated the efficacy of EMMA using dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO)-based agents like ONYX and SQUID. The EMBOLISE trial demonstrated a significant reduction in hematoma recurrence with adjunctive EMMA, while the STEM trial showed similar benefits at 180 days. Conversely, the MAGIC MT trial found no significant difference in recurrence rates with EMMA. A meta-analysis of these trials confirmed EMMA's safety, with no significant increase in serious adverse events. The analysis indicated a modest overall benefit in reducing NASDH recurrence (risk difference −0.09, P = 0.02), though results were largely driven by the STEM trial. The benefit of adjunctive EMMA was less clear, with no significant effect found. Primary EMMA showed marginal benefit but with considerable variability. Factors such as primary outcome, trial design, patient demographics, and surgical biases complicate the interpretation of these findings. While the safety of EMMA is supported, its clinical efficacy remains inconclusive. Further trials, including patient-level meta-analyses, are needed to refine the role of EMMA in NASDH management and address existing gaps in the literature.
Reduced volume of the mediodorsal and anteroventral thalamus is associated with anxiety in Parkinson's disease: A cross-sectional 7-tesla MRI study
Authors: Carey Guillaume , Kuijf Mark L , Michielse Stijn , Wolters Amée F , Dujardin Kathy , Leentjens Albert FG
Published: February 2025

Background

Parkinson's disease (PD)-related anxiety occurs frequently and may be associated with imbalance between anxiety-related circuits. While the thalamus is a shared region of these circuits, its role in PD-related anxiety has not been explored so far.

Objective

To identify changes in volume of the thalamus and its subnuclei in patients with PD-related anxiety.

Methods

Cognitively intact PD patients (n = 105) were divided into two groups based on their score on the Parkinson anxiety scale (PAS): 31 PD patients had anxiety (Anx-PD) and 74 did not have anxiety (non-Anx-PD). Forty-five healthy control subjects were included. Participants underwent 7-Tesla MRI scanning. Using automatic segmentation, the volumes of the thalamus and its subnuclei were measured, compared between the groups and regressed on the PAS.

Results

The volumes of the thalamus and its subnuclei did not significantly differ between the groups. However, in anxious PD patients, more severe anxiety was strongly associated with a smaller volume of the right medial thalamic subregion, specifically the right mediodorsal magnocellular nucleus and the right mediodorsal parvocellular nucleus (R = 0.63, ßPAS = −0.546, p-valuemodel = 0.007 and R = 0.60, ßPAS = −0.547, p-valuemodel = 0.016, respectively), and of the left anteroventral thalamus (R = 0.73, FDR p-valuemodel = 0.002, ßPAS = −0.407, p-valuePAS = 0.01).

Conclusions

A reduced volume of the mediodorsal and anteroventral thalamus, overlapping structures between the anxiety related circuits, are associated with more severe PD-related anxiety and may explain its high prevalence in the disease.
Demystifying Infusion Pumps: Design of a Cost-Effective Platform for Education and Innovation
Authors: Cayetano-Jiménez Israel Ulises , López-Jiménez Nubia Pamela , Bustamante-Bello Rogelio
Published: February 2025

Introduction:

This article presents a cost-effective, modular infusion platform to help diabetes specialists customize and understand infusion pump mechanics and control principles. Traditional insulin pumps are costly and inflexible, limiting accessibility, and particularly in low-resource settings. Inspired by open-source initiatives like OpenAPS, this platform engages specialists in device operation and customization, offering practical insights into infusion technology.

Method:

An initial survey assessed technological literacy, customization interests, and feature preferences among Mexican diabetes specialists, followed by a hands-on engagement session with the platform’s hardware. Core components are described and chosen for reliability, affordability, and integration ease. A follow-up survey evaluated specialists’ confidence and interest in device customization, gathering feedback on usability and design.

Results:

Survey data showed strong specialist interest in understanding device mechanics and high confidence in customization after hands-on engagement. Most specialists found the hardware layout conducive to experimentation, with significant interest in closed-loop capabilities. Key valued features included safety, affordability, ease of use, customization, and integration of diverse continuous glucose monitors, with added suggestions for potential clinical certification, cost-effective supplies, and artificial intelligence integration.

Conclusion:

This platform offers a promising educational and developmental tool in diabetes management, bridging clinical application, and customization. Its low-cost, modular design provides a feasible solution for low-resource settings, equipping specialists to tailor devices for specific patient needs. While the platform’s educational potential is clear, further studies and validation are essential for a possible transition to a clinical-grade device. Continued development could democratize access to advanced diabetes technology, transforming specialist training, and patient care.
A Review of the Ethnomedicine, Phytochemistry and Biological Activities of the Genus Parinari
Authors: Brew-Daniels Henry , Harrison Jerry Joe Ebow Kingsley
Published: February 2025

Parinari is a genus of woody medicinal plants with expansive ethnomedicinal uses. While extensive data are available for several members of this genus, this information is generally scattered. This review therefore crystallizes major reports relating to the ethnomedicinal uses, phytochemistry, and biological activities of this genus for easy accessibility. The rich therapeutic applications of this genus include their use as antimalarial, antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, anti-snake venom, and anticancer agents. However, the overarching biological theme for this genus appears to be their application in treating infection and infection-related diseases. These bioactivities have largely been attributed to molecules isolated from this genus and categorized under; kaurene-type diterpenoids, triterpenoids (ursane, oleanane, and lupane types), flavonoids, steroids, and phenolic compounds. While data is available for most parts of the plants, the stem appears to be the most used part. Given the varied medicinal uses of this genus, and yet the scarcity of information on many Parinari species, studies on the ethnomedicine, phytochemistry, and biological activities that fully explore the medicinal potential of this genus for drug discovery are critical. These include the need for comprehensive phytochemical profiling to uncover novel compounds, detailed studies on mechanisms of action, and translational research to validate clinical efficacy. Additionally, comparative ethnobotanical studies, standardization of extraction methods, and sustainable harvesting practices are critical to fully realizing the medicinal potential of Parinari species.
How to make teaching of wood anatomy more engaging with 3D data
Authors: Koddenberg Tim
Published: February 2025

Wood is a highly heterogeneous material with a variable and three-dimensional (3D) anatomy at the microscopic level. Research and application of wood depend on well-educated individuals, who understand the wood anatomy. The teaching and learning of that complex structure are challenging with common teaching resources, which are mostly based on two-dimensional microscopy images. Innovative teaching materials may involve 3D data provided by micro-computed tomography (micro-CT). Using 3D data of wood, this article suggests approaches to make teaching and learning of wood anatomy more engaging. Whereas 3D visualizations can be added as a new resource to teaching presentations, digital 3D models of wood features can be incorporated into virtual data libraries allowing students to move freely through the 3D structure. These models can also be printed using additive manufacturing providing hands-on material in class. These teaching materials have the potential to become a valuable and future-oriented educational toolkit for promoting students’ learning experience and motivation. To encourage the use of 3D data in teaching, 3D data of selected anatomical features of softwoods and hardwoods are provided along with the article.
Hyperintensity of the left piriform cortex and amygdala on T2-weighted FLAIR images in patients with probable Alzheimer’s disease correlates with cerebral cortical atrophy
Authors: Ishizaka Hiroshi , Sekine Akiko , Naka Minoru , Nakano Saeki , Nagase Hiroyuki , Tsushima Yoshito
Published: February 2025

Background

The left piriform cortex and amygdala (PC&A) tend to be slightly hyperintense relative to the right PC&A on T2-weighted fluid-attenuated inversion recovery (T2W-FLAIR) images in patients with probable Alzheimer’s disease (pAD). This likely represents the antecedent and thus advanced degeneration of the left PC&A.

Purpose

To investigate the relationship between left PC&A hyperintensities and cerebral cortical atrophy on magnetic resonance (MR) voxel-based morphometry in patients with pAD and discuss how this finding could relate to AD progression.

Material and Methods

Patients with pAD ( n = 47; age range = 68–93 years, mean = 80.8 ± 6.7 years; 14 men and 33 women) who underwent T2W-FLAIR imaging and MR morphometric study using a voxel-based specific regional analysis system for AD (VSRAD) were retrospectively examined. To measure signal intensity ratios of the left to right PC&A (L-PC&A/R-PC&A), regions of interest (ROIs) were set on the transaxial images in which both PC&As were most broadly depicted; the ROIs were defined as large as possible. Correlations between the L-PC&A/R-PC&A and medial temporal lobe cortical atrophy (MTLCA) as well as whole cerebral cortical atrophy (WCCA) on VSRAD were determined. Correlation between the L-PC&A/R-PC&A and age was also determined.

Results

The L-PC&A/R-PC&A correlated with both MTLCA (r = 0.375, p = .010, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.095–0.600) and WCCA (r = 0.576, p < .001, 95% CI = 0.343–0.742). The L-PC&A/R-PC&A did not correlate with age (r = 0.013, p = .932, 95% CI = −0.282–0.305).

Conclusion

Left-sided dominance of PC&A degeneration appeared to accelerate with the progression of AD stages.
Development and Validation of the Counselor Beliefs About Cultural Impact on Suicidality Scale
Authors: Edwin Mary , Brown Emily , Belcher L. Thomas , Ashrafabadi Fatemeh
Published: February 2025

Youth suicide rates are increasing, particularly among culturally minoritized populations, underscoring the need for school counselors to implement culturally competent suicide response strategies. Despite the school counseling profession’s commitment to cultural competency, there is a lack of validated instruments to assess school counselors’ beliefs about how cultural factors influence suicidality. To address this gap, we developed and validated the Counselor Beliefs about Cultural Impact on Suicidality (CBCIS) Scale. Using a sample of 826 school counselors in the United States, we utilized exploratory factor analysis to investigate the psychometric properties of the CBCIS. Our findings indicate that the CBCIS is a potentially effective tool, with two subscales: Beliefs About Student Experience and Beliefs About Counselor Response. We share implications for future research and school counselor practice and training to enhance culturally competent suicide prevention efforts.
Vessel wall enhancement and high-sensitivity CRP as prognostic markers in intracranial atherosclerotic stroke: A prospective cohort study
Authors: Na Seunghee , Kim Taewon , Koo Jaseong , Hong Yun Jeong , Kim Seong-Hoon
Published: February 2025

Introduction:

Eccentric vessel wall enhancement (EVWE) and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) are inflammatory biomarkers associated with atherosclerotic disease. We investigated their prognostic value in patients with acute ischemic stroke receiving guideline-adherent medical treatment.

Patients and methods:

In this prospective observational cohort study, patients with acute ischemic stroke attributed to intracranial arterial disease (ICAD) underwent vessel wall MRI and hs-CRP testing. The study included intracranial cases of both large artery atherosclerosis (LAA) and small vessel occlusion (SVO). The primary outcome was subsequent ischemic stroke during the follow-up period. The median follow-up duration was 21 months. Kaplan-Meier survival and Cox regression analysis was used to determine the associations between EVWE, hs-CRP levels, and subsequent ischemic stroke.

Results:

Among 191 patients, 81 (42.4%) had EVWE. EVWE positivity showed a trend toward a lower risk of subsequent ischemic stroke compared to EVWE negativity (HR 0.32, 95% CI 0.12–0.87; p = 0.061). Hs-CRP levels were not associated with recurrent stroke risk. The combination of EVWE positivity and low hs-CRP levels (<1.25 mg/l) was associated with a favorable outcome, while EVWE negativity and high hs-CRP levels (⩾1.25 mg/l) were associated with an unfavorable outcome (HR 0.143, 95% CI 0.04–0.50; p = 0.031).

Discussion:

In this observational study of patients with intracranial atherosclerotic stroke receiving optimal medical therapy, EVWE positivity appeared to be associated with a trend toward lower risk of recurrent stroke, though this relationship requires further validation.

Conclusion:

The combination of EVWE and hs-CRP status might potentially offer prognostic information, with preliminary data suggesting that EVWE positivity and low hs-CRP levels could be associated with more favorable outcomes in patients receiving guideline-adherent medical treatment. These preliminary findings suggest a possible role for combining imaging and serum inflammatory biomarkers in risk stratification, though larger prospective studies are needed to confirm these associations.
Change in reflectance of silicon wafer with different micro-patterned surface fabricated using fiber laser
Authors: Kar Tuhin , Deshmukh Swarup S. , Goswami Arjyajyoti
Published: February 2025

Laser-patterned surfaces functioned as antireflecting surfaces, which minimized reflection loss for a crystallized silicon wafer. Four different microstructures, namely, micro-channel, micro-hole, grid, and hybrid patterns were fabricated using the fiber laser. The patterned wafers were characterized for the wavelength range of 300–1,100 nm. The hybrid structure exhibited the lowest average reflectance of 0.33, followed by the micro hole (0.36) and the micro-channel (0.4) for the 300–1,100-nm wavelength using a Jasco V-770 spectrophotometer (Japan Spectroscopic Company (JASCO), Japan). Patterned surfaces can trap a large amount of light in solar panels, which is beneficial for photovoltaic and optical applications by cutting down the reflection losses. Surface morphology analysis was performed using a field emission scanning electron microscope (SEM). SEM images showed an amplified view of structure where the irregularity of surfaces (micro cracks, ripples, pits, etc.) can be seen.
The Cost of Providing Mechanical Thrombectomy for Patients in Private Hospitals Across India: A Macro-costing Study
Authors: Sundar Kaushik , Panwar Ajay , Pramanick Gobinda , Kuruttukulam Gigy , Ichaporia Nasli R. , Bhirud Lomesh , Pawar Sanjay K. , Ilahi Fazal E , V. Vishnu Vardhan
Published: February 2025

Purpose

The benefits of using mechanical thrombectomy (MT) to treat large vessel occlusion stroke in terms of clinical efficacy and cost-effectiveness have been widely recognised. However, the cost of delivering MT to treat large vessel occlusion stroke in private tertiary care centres in India is unclear. This study aimed to determine the cost of MT and analyse cost-influencing factors.

Methods

A retrospective cost analysis of stroke patients who underwent MT with or without intravenous thrombolysis (IVT) was conducted at multiple centres (January–December 2022). The macro-costing method was used to examine the discharge bills and identify cost-influencing factors. The study gathered data on patients treated according to normal clinical procedures at four skilled and frequently performing thrombectomy centres.

Results

The study was conducted on 115 stroke patients who underwent MT with or without IVT. Results showed an average total cost of ₹555,399 (95% confidence interval: 246,306–864,492) per patient. Key cost drivers were length of hospital stay (9.7 ± 7.0 days, p < .01), modified Rankin Scale (mRS) score at discharge (3.6 ± 1.6, p < .01) and use of decompressive surgery (10.7/115, p < .03). Lower costs were seen in patients with mRS scores 1, 2 or 6 on day 3 after MT (57/115, 50.4%, p < .01). Neither MT type nor concomitant use of IVT had a significant cost impact.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the mRS score is a critical factor in determining the cost of acute stroke therapy with MT in India. Efforts must be made to identify patients with poor mRS as early as 3 days after MT and devise a strategy to reduce their stay in the ICU and in the hospital, which would, in turn, help reduce their hospitalisation costs. It is crucial to gather accurate and comprehensive data on micro-costing to inform policies and allocate resources effectively.
Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) Imaging of Coronary Plaque Rupture Resulting in Acute Coronary Syndrome in a Patient with Addisons’ Crisis
Authors: Mustepally Pradeep Kumar , Kiron Varsha , Paul Rajib , Rath P. C.
Published: February 2025

Acute coronary syndrome (ACS) in a patient with acute adrenal insufficiency (AAI) is rare and presents a diagnostic challenge to the treating physician due to its uncharacteristic presentation. AAI is an uncommon but serious condition presenting with vomiting, low blood pressure and weakness. The outcome of AAI depends on early treatment with corticosteroids. Long-term use of corticosteroids is an independent risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Corticosteroids induce a chronic inflammatory response of the vasculature, leading to atheroma formation and progression. ACS is a major cause of hospital admission and death in patients with long-term use of steroids. The most common cause of ACS is atherothrombosis. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is an intravascular imaging modality that provides a detailed picture of atheromatous plaque morphology due to its high resolution. We hereby present a case of ACS resulting from a plaque rupture in a patient with AAI and the utility of intravascular imaging in the assessment of the underlying mechanism of ACS.
Do role models enhance creativity? A case of Stéphane Mallarmé
Authors: Iwai Yusuke , Okada Takeshi
Published: February 2025

Creative lives are full of encounters with admirable role models and inspirational works. How does learning from them enable creators to accomplish distinguished achievements? This question of how creative individuals develop through interaction and context is vital to the development of creative expertise. However, quantitatively addressing this question has been an unsolved issue. In this paper, to answer this question, we use a methodological framework to analyze quantitatively individual-context dynamism that leads to creative development. Using this methodology, we investigate how acquired domain knowledge affects changes in creative expression across a lifespan. Poetic compositions by the French poet, Stéphane Mallarmé, are analyzed. Machine learning and natural language process methods, rolling stylometry in the authorship attribution realm, and Structural Topic Modeling, are applied to examine longitudinal changes in the styles and content of the poetry. The results suggest that inspiration by other creators’ works influenced Mallarmé’s creative activities over time, and eventually, he digested such experiences and developed his own style of expression. Our study provides a specific case of how role models and mentors enhance creative development using modern authorship attribution methods.
America's urban systems of conspirituality
Authors: Wyly Elvin
Published: February 2025

Millions of Americans believe Donald Trump's claim that the 2020 U.S. Presidential election was ‘rigged’. This commentary presents evidence of the remarkably diverse acceptance of this claim in the American population. For nearly half a century, ever since Reagan, right-wing operatives have been working to capture and return fire with the most advanced analytical tools of the post-structuralist academic Left. In the last dozen years these strategies have been ruthlessly effective in the complex algorithmic spaces of media and communications that reproduce dynamic hierarchies of the legendary ‘urban systems’ paradigm of linguistics and cybernetics that once dominated urban research. Today these systems are evolving into cognitive infrastructures that accelerate the production and circulation of conspiracy and faith, producing bizarre intersectional configurations of the sort that culminates in the 2025 re-inauguration of a revanchist, eschatological American anti-urbanism nurtured on hatred of transnational cultural evolution.
Pretending the city: Cinema as urban planning tool
Authors: Stein Erica
Published: February 2025

Rose's connection of the City Digital Twin and its visual logics and ideologies to the disaster film is an illuminating one, but is articulated through the intensive usage of CGI, formal and stylistic strategies, and narrative and thematic content closely affiliated with the disaster film and other subtypes of the action film genre. If we move beyond the confines of a generic exploration and instead approach the CDT through an ontological model of cinema and cinematic-descended screen media in general, other facets of not only the CDT, but also the city's relationship with image and representation, emerge.
Route Optimization for Home Healthcare Vehicles
Authors: Balti Moez , Jemai Abderrazak
Published: February 2025

Home health care (HHC) refers to a range of services provided at home after illness or injury, offering the benefits of reduced costs and increased convenience. However, HHC involves moving medical staff to the patient's home, thus generating new challenges to overcome such as vehicle routing problem (VRP). Heuristic methods and exact methods have been proposed for solving VRP problems. In recent years, smart healthcare 4.0 solutions and intelligent transportation systems (ITS) based on internet of things (IoT) technologies have been developed to address emerging challenges while improving service quality and reducing time and costs. The introduction of intelligent system to health care can reduce the labor intensity of medical staff, save costs and enhance the medical experience of patients. In this context, this paper gives a review of some approaches to solve VRPs. A combined approach using exact method, home healthcare, and ITS is developed to determine a reliable route optimization solution for home healthcare vehicles. The solution was optimized considering traffic congestion levels during travel. The proposed solution involves finding the optimal route, then in real time allows to bypass the traffic blockages.
Triangle Mesh Reconstruction by Fusion of Residual Graph Convolution and Edge Contraction Pooling
Authors: Ding N Yang , Yang NN Huamin , Han N-N Cheng , Zhong N-N Xinhui
Published: February 2025

Triangle meshes are a crucial and powerful data type for three-dimensional (3D) shapes, extensively studied in the fields of computer vision and computer graphics. In this paper, we delve into the challenge of analyzing deforming 3D triangle meshes using deep neural networks. While existing methods extend graph-based deep learning to 3D triangle meshes using graph convolution, the lack of effective graph convolutional structures and pooling operations limits the learning capacity of their networks. We propose a variational autoencoder structure that integrates graph convolutional residual blocks with multilayer pooling to explore the latent space of 3D shapes for generation. This framework introduces graph convolutional residual blocks to address the issue of gradient vanishing in deep networks. By employing multilayer pooling and unpooling structures based on triangle mesh simplification, gradually reducing the spatial dimensions of the input, the model can extract more general features. This enables it to handle denser mesh models effectively. Extensive experiments demonstrate that our generalized framework can learn reasonable representations of deformable shape collections with minimal training examples. It produces competitive results across various applications, including shape generation and interpolation, requiring fewer training samples and outperforming state-of-the-art techniques.
Exploring the role and mechanisms of MAGEA4 in tumorigenesis, regulation, and immunotherapy
Authors: Zhu Weijian , Yi Qiang , Chen Zheng , Wang Jiaqi , Zhong Kui , Ouyang Xinting , Yang Kuan , Jiang Bowei , Zhong Jianing , Zhong Jinghua
Published: February 2025

MAGEA4 is a member of the Melanoma-Associated Antigen (MAGE) family, characterized by high expression in various tumor tissues but low expression in normal tissues, with the exception of testis and placenta. Its expression is associated with poor prognosis in cancer. This review summarizes the mechanisms of action, regulatory functions, and immunotherapeutic applications of MAGEA4 in cancer.MAGEA4 promotes tumor initiation and progression through multiple pathways, including ubiquitination and degradation of the tumor suppressor P53, regulation of cell cycle and apoptosis, modulation of DNA damage repair, and enhancement of cancer cell survival. By forming a complex with TRIM28, MAGEA4 accelerates tumor development via P53 degradation. Factors such as TWIST1 and BORIS can upregulate MAGEA4 expression. MAGEA4 interacts with proteins including Miz-1, p53, and RAD18, participating in gene transcription regulation and DNA damage repair. By stabilizing RAD18, MAGEA4 facilitates the recruitment of Y-family DNA polymerases, enabling cells to continue replication under DNA damage conditions and thus supporting cancer cell survival. MAGEA4-based TCR-T cell therapy and cancer vaccines show clinical potential. This article comprehensively reviews the structure and function of MAGEA4, as well as recent research progress in solid tumors, providing a theoretical foundation for the clinical translation of MAGEA4 and its application in immunotherapy.
The impact of remuneration, extrinsic and intrinsic incentives on interprofessional primary care teams: results from a rapid scoping review
Authors: Aggarwal Monica , Hutchison Brian , Kokorelias Kristina M. , Bilgic Selin , Glazier Richard H.
Published: February 2025

Background

High-performing primary care relies on effective interprofessional teams and provider payment arrangements. This study aims to examine the impact of provider remuneration mechanisms and intrinsic and extrinsic incentives in team-based primary care.

Methods

This rapid scoping review assessed various provider payment models and incentives in team-based primary care. Statistical tests were not applicable in this review.

Results

Fee-for-service models hindered team collaboration, while salaried and quality-based compensation models enhanced collaboration. Extrinsic incentives, such as pay-for-performance programs for physicians, showed mixed impacts on outcomes. Strong organizational cultures and leadership, resources, team meetings, training, clear protocols, and professional development opportunities facilitated teamwork. Intrinsic incentives like autonomy, mastery, and social purpose improved team performance and satisfaction.

Conclusions

This study underscores the importance of a holistic approach to designing interprofessional primary care teams. It highlights the need for implementing non-fee-for-service provider payment models and team-based pay-for-performance incentives. Investments in teams should include health human resources and leadership, training, guidelines, and professional development opportunities. Implementing a performance measurement framework for teams and regular public reporting can foster mastery. Continuous research and evaluation are crucial to optimizing teamwork and healthcare delivery in primary care settings.
Effects of a nutrition education intervention on nutrition knowledge and attitude among overweight and obese primary schoolchildren: a cluster randomized controlled trial
Authors: Selamat Rusidah , Aziz Nur Azlina Abdul , Raib Junidah , Zulkafly Norlida , Mohamad WNurul Ashikin W. , Ismail Ainan Nasrina , Jalaludin Muhammad Yazid , Zain Fuziah Md. , Ishak Zahari , Yahya Abqariyah , Mokhtar Abdul Halim
Published: February 2025

Background

School-based obesity interventions are a promising strategy for combating childhood obesity. In this study, we examined the efficacy of the “My Body is Fit and Fabulous at School” (MyBFF@school) program with a nutrition education intervention (NEI) for improving nutrition knowledge and attitude among overweight and obese primary schoolchildren.

Methods

A school-based cluster randomized controlled trial of the MyBFF@school obesity intervention program was conducted among overweight and obese schoolchildren aged 9–11. Out of 1,196 eligible government primary schools in central Peninsular Malaysia, 23 were randomly assigned into seven intervention schools (647 children) and 16 control schools (750 children). A standard nutrition education module was delivered for 24 weeks to the intervention group, whereas children in the control group followed only the currently existing school nutrition education program. The main outcome measures were nutrition knowledge and attitude scores. Changes of nutrition knowledge and attitude scores from follow up until end of 6 months was assessed using the mixed effect model taking into account the cluster effect.

Results

A total of 563 children in the intervention group and 482 in the control group completed the six-month program and were included in the analysis. The overall nutrition knowledge score was significantly higher in the intervention group (adjusted mean difference (AMD): 4.75%,

$$p=0.028$$

p
=
0.028

) after controlling for mean nutrition knowledge score at baseline, gender, location school group (intervention vs control) and ethnicity. There was also a significant improvement in the nutrition knowledge score with AMD among boys (6.02%), urban children (8.07%), and non-Malays (10.4%). In contrast, after controlling for mean nutrition attitude score at baseline, gender, location, school group (intervention vs control) and ethnicity, there was no significant difference in the nutrition attitude scores between the intervention and the control groups in the overall, gender, location and ethnicity.

Conclusions

The MyBFF@school program with an adjunct NEI improves the overall knowledge on nutrition but has no positive effect on the nutrition attitude of younger schoolchildren, necessitating additional improvements.

Trial registration

Clinical trial number: NCT04155255, November 7, 2019 (Retrospective registered). National Medical Research Register: NMRR-13–439-16563. Registered July 23, 2013. The intervention program was approved by the Medical Research and Ethics Committee (MREC), Ministry of Health Malaysia and Educational Planning and Research Division (EPRD), Ministry of Education Malaysia. It was funded by the Ministry of Health Malaysia.
Study on the potential diagnostic value of metabolomics changes in different biological fluids for aspiration pneumonia
Authors: Chen Lianghui , Chen Yazhen , Lin Fansen , Wang Jianbao , Gao Hongzhi , Liu Yuqi
Published: February 2025

Background

Aspiration pneumonia (AP) is a type of lung inflammation caused by the aspiration of food, oropharyngeal secretions, or gastric contents. This condition is particularly common in older adults and individuals with impaired swallowing or consciousness. While the diagnosis of AP relies on clinical history, swallowing assessments, and imaging, these methods have significant limitations, often leading to underdiagnosis or misdiagnosis. Reliable biomarkers for AP diagnosis are lacking, making early detection and treatment challenging.

Methods

Nineteen patients diagnosed with pneumonia were included in this study, divided into two groups: AP (n = 10) and non-AP (n = 9). Biological fluid samples, including bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF), saliva, serum, sputum, and urine, were analyzed using non-targeted liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). Differential metabolites were identified using fold change analysis, statistical significance, and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis to evaluate their diagnostic potential. Spearman correlation was used to examine the relationship between selected metabolites and clinical parameters.

Results

Significant metabolic differences were found between AP and non-AP patients, with many different metabolites identified across biological fluids. Dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS), Androstenediol-3-sulfate (ADIOLS), and beta-muricholic acid were identified as key biomarkers through fold change analysis and ROC curve analysis, showing consistent increasing or decreasing trends in BALF, sputum, and serum samples. DHEAS was found to be negatively correlated with the Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II (APACHE II) (r = − 0.619, p = 0.005) in BALF sample. The area under curve (AUC) values showed that these molecules could serve as effective biomarkers for AP.

Conclusions

This study identifies DHEAS, ADIOLS and beta-muricholic acid as promising biomarkers for AP, with the potential to improve early diagnosis and treatment. These findings underscore the clinical value of metabolomics in developing diagnostic tools for AP, facilitating better clinical management and patient outcomes. Further research is required to validate these biomarkers in larger cohorts and explore their mechanistic roles in AP pathophysiology.
Validating the self-competence in death work scale for end-of-life care volunteers
Authors: Lin Zhuyun , Lou Vivian Weiqun , Chan Wallace Chi Ho
Published: February 2025

There is an increasing demand for end-of-life care (EoLC) volunteers in Hong Kong’s aging population. However, there is no validated measure that assesses volunteers’ self-competence in coping with death. This is essential to optimize their services, and ensure their psychological well-being. This study aimed to validate the existing Self-Competence in Death Work Scale (SC-DWS) for EoLC volunteers. This scale has been tested previously on health professionals providing end-of-life care, and was adapted for this study with words that fitted the volunteer context.

A self-administered survey collected demographic information, personal experiences, the 16-item SC-DWS, 15-item Templer Death Anxiety Scale, and the 8-item Spiritual Wellbeing Scale to examine the internal consistency, concurrent validity, and discriminative validity of this scale among EoLC volunteers. The study sample consisted of all applicants who registered for the EoLC volunteer training programme between 2019 and 2021. Applicants first underwent a systematic screening and selection procedure. They completed an online registration form which included risk assessment, followed by structured individual interviews focusing on applicants’ motivation and mental preparedness for their role. The content validity of the SC-DWS was determined using data from the 341 volunteers who were screened prior to training. Construct validity was tested using Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA), which suggested that two-factors (subscales) offered the best combination of variables (Emotional and Existential Subscales). The new subscales and the component items differed slightly from those identified in health professional samples. Concurrent validity was demonstrated by strong correlations between the SC-DWS, and the Death Anxiety, and Spiritual Wellbeing scales. Discriminant validity was supported by strong relationships between the new subscales and participants’ personal experiences. The SC-DWS was shown not only to be reliable and valid for EoLC volunteers, but it also highlighted the unique emotional challenges they faced.
Challenges and opportunities in pediatric surgery training in Germany: a view from the trenches
Authors: Drossard Sabine , Schuffert Louisa
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Pediatric surgery training in Germany faces significant challenges related to structural issues and resource limitations, including variability in training sites and a lack of standardized oversight. This study aims to assess the current state of pediatric surgery training including its structure, quality, and resident satisfaction and identify areas for improvement.

Materials and methods

We conducted an online survey between May 2022 and November 2023 using single-choice, multiple-choice and open-ended questions. Additionally, information was gathered via analysis of available statistics and through direct contact with the State Chambers of Physicians.

Results

75 pediatric surgery residents and 15 young specialists participated in the survey. 12 of 17 state medical chambers responded to our inquiry, but only 4 maintain detailed statistics. Training often extends beyond the planned six years, mainly (75%) due to insufficient surgical exposure. Residents reported a predominant role of attendings in surgical training and other residents in clinical training. They desired more involvement from chiefs in their education. A significant proportion (58.9%) noted a lack of dedicated scientific education. Nearly half (44.4%) of the respondents had changed training sites, primarily due to clinical rotations (26,7%) and dissatisfaction with training conditions (30,0%).

Conclusion

Pediatric surgery residents in Germany face inconsistent training quality and extended training periods, mainly due to insufficient surgical exposure. They report that some chiefs do not meet their obligations as trainers adequately. To address these issues, there is a need for enhanced oversight, standardized curricula, more surgical exposure and improved collaboration among training institutions.
Poor hypotheses and research waste in biology: learning from a theory crisis in psychology
Authors: Nakagawa Shinichi , Armitage David W. , Froese Tom , Yang Yefeng , Lagisz Malgorzata
Published: February 2025

While psychologists have extensively discussed the notion of a “theory crisis” arising from vague and incorrect hypotheses, there has been no debate about such a crisis in biology. However, biologists have long discussed communication failures between theoreticians and empiricists. We argue such failure is one aspect of a theory crisis because misapplied and misunderstood theories lead to poor hypotheses and research waste. We review its solutions and compare them with methodology-focused solutions proposed for replication crises. We conclude by discussing how promoting inclusion, diversity, equity, and accessibility (IDEA) in theoretical biology could contribute to ameliorating breakdowns in the theory-empirical cycle.
MAAT: a new nonparametric Bayesian framework for incorporating multiple functional annotations in transcriptome-wide association studies
Authors: Wang Han , Li Xiang , Li Teng , Li Zhe , Sham Pak Chung , Zhang Yan Dora
Published: February 2025

Transcriptome-wide association study (TWAS) has emerged as a powerful tool for translating the myriad variations identified by genome-wide association studies (GWAS) into regulated genes in the post-GWAS era. While integrating annotation information has been shown to enhance power, current annotation-assisted TWAS tools predominantly focus on epigenomic annotations. When including more annotations, the assumption of a positive correlation between annotation scores and SNPs’ effect sizes, as adopted by current methods, often falls short. Here, we propose MAAT expanding the horizons of existing TWAS studies, generating a new model incorporating multiple annotations into TWAS and a new metric indicating the most important annotation.
On the tracks of an uninvited guest, the Asian tiger mosquito, Aedes albopictus in Cyprus
Authors: Piccinno Riccardo , Fiorenza Giulia , Vasquez Marlen Ines , Bouyer Jeremy , Notarides Gregoris , Gomulski Ludvik Marcus , Meletiou Soteris , Akiner Mustafa , Michaelakis Antonios , Forneris Federico , Maga Giovanni , Gasperi Giuliano , Malacrida Anna Rodolfa
Published: February 2025

Background

Aedes albopictus, the Asian tiger mosquito, which is listed among the world's 100 most dangerous invasive species, is the main vector of chikungunya, dengue and Zika viruses. This mosquito species has rapidly dispersed and invaded much of the globe assisted by its life history traits and high propagule pressure driven by human activities. Aedes albopictus is currently widespread across mainland Europe and the Mediterranean region, including the islands. Cyprus remained free of Ae. albopictus until October 2022, when specimens were recorded for the first time in Limassol district, including the port area. Understanding the processes associated with the introduction, expansion and establishment of this vector in Cyprus is of primary importance to mitigate its dispersal on the island, and to implement control methods to prevent disease outbreaks. A genetic analysis of these invasive specimens collected in Limassol district and in areas from the Central Mediterranean was performed to obtain a genetic portrait of the demographic history of the invasive mosquitoes on Cyprus.

Methods

We applied highly polymorphic simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers to the Ae. albopictus mosquitoes collected in Cyprus and to specimens from Italy, France, Switzerland, the Balkans, Greece and Turkey to construct an SSR individual genotype dataset that would enable the invasion pattern of Ae. albopictus in Cyprus to be traced. Bayesian clustering analyses using STRUCTURE and BayesAss version 3 were employed to derive information on the degree of ancestry among Cypriot and Mediterranean mosquitoes and on recent mosquito movements both within Cyprus and between Cyprus and the Central Mediterranean areas.

Results

The Cypriot mosquitoes appear to be highly polymorphic with no signs of genetic drift due to recent founder effects. An ongoing mosquito dispersal within the Limassol district was detected, suggesting the presence of established, hidden adventive populations. These mosquitoes share a high degree of ancestry with those in the Balkans and parts of northern Italy that border the Adriatic Sea.

Conclusions

Considering the trade connections of Limassol port, Cyprus with the Balkans and the Adriatic Italian region, we hypothesise that these areas may be involved in the incursion of Ae. albopictus into Cyprus. As the Balkan and Italian mosquitoes display high competence for CHIKV, questions arise about possible arbovirus outbreaks in Cyprus and highlight the need to implement surveillance and control measures.

Graphical Abstract
Inhibition of STING-mediated type I IFN signaling by African swine fever virus DP71L
Authors: Ranathunga Lakmal , Abesinghe Sachini , Cha Ji-Won , Dodantenna Niranjan , Chathuranga Kiramage , Weerawardhana Asela , Haluwana D. K. , Gamage Nuwan , Lee Jong-Soo
Published: February 2025

African swine fever virus (ASFV) is nucleocytoplasmic large DNA arbovirus and encodes many proteins involved in the interaction with host molecules to evade antiviral immune responses. Especially, evasion strategies of type I interferon (IFN-I)-mediated immune responses are crucial for early ASFV replication. However, there is still a lack of information regarding the immune evasion mechanism of ASFV proteins. Here, we demonstrated that ASFV DP71L suppresses STING-mediated antiviral responses. The conserved phosphatase 1 (PP1) motif of DP71L specifically interact with the C-terminal tail (CTT) of STING and in particular, amino acids P371, L374, and R375 of STING were important for interaction with DP71L. Consequently, this interaction disrupted the binding between STING and TANK-binding kinase 1 (TBK1), thereby inhibiting downstream signaling including phosphorylation of TBK1, STING and IRF3 for antiviral signaling. DP71L significantly interfered with viral DNA induced interferon production and IFN-mediated downstream signaling in vitro. Consistently, knockdown of DP71L enhanced antiviral gene expression in ASFV-infected cells. Taken together, these results highlight the important role of DP71L with respect to inhibition of interferon responses and provide guidance for a better understanding of ASFV pathogenesis and the development of live attenuated ASFV vaccines.
The geographical variation in grassland forage quality on the eastern Qinghai-Tibet Plateau is driven mainly by climate
Authors: Wu Shulan , Lü Xiaotao , Liu Qinghua , Wuda Erke , Li Liu , Zhao Chunzhang , Huang Juanjuan , Li Shuang , Hu Youbang , Du Wenzhi , Li Hewen , Chen Chaoqun , Luo Lin , Raza Ali , Yin Chunying
Published: February 2025

Background

Forage quality is a fundamental determinant for livestock productivity in natural grasslands, and is sensitive to the variations in climate, soil, and plant community composition. However, the contributions of those factors to the regional variation of forage quality largely remain unclear. We examined forage quality of 45 alpine meadow communities over a 23.6 × 104 km2 area on the eastern Qinghai-Tibet Plateau in China. We also examined the variations and drivers of multiple forage quality indicators across regional scale.

Results

The results showed that the natural grasslands in this region had high crude protein and non-fiber carbohydrates content, and relative feed value, but low-fat content. Forage quality of forb-dominated grasslands was higher than grass- and sedge-dominated ones. There were substantial geographical variations of forage quality, which decreased with increasing longitude, and increased with increasing latitude and altitude. Climate and plant community composition directly controlled the geographical patterns of forage quality. Climate had larger contribution to forage quality than soil and plant community composition. Less sedge and more forb in community resulted in higher forage quality. Forage quality was higher in sites with colder, drier and more variable climate. Soil conditions indirectly affected forage quality by mediating the plant community composition.

Conclusions

This study highlights the role of climate in driving the variation of forage quality in the alpine grasslands. The findings could provide scientific supports for grassland management and sustainable development on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau.