bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effects of MHD Slip Flow on Heat and Mass Transfer by Radiation, Chemical Reaction, and Suction/Injection Over a Shrinking Sheet in a Porous Medium Using the Keller Box Method
Authors: Prashanth M. , Srinivasa Rao V.
Published: February 2025

The effect of suction/injection on magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) slip flow across a shrinking sheet in a porous medium is examined in this work, taking chemical reactions and thermal radiation into account. Understanding the effects of these variables on heat and mass transport, material characteristics in magnetic fields, and boundary conditions in a variety of technical and industrial processes including metallurgy, polymer processing, energy systems, and medicinal treatments is the major goal. The study investigates the combined effects of radiation, chemical processes, magnetic fields, and suction/injection on flow properties and boundary layer behavior using the Keller Box Method. To simplify the analysis, the controlling partial differential equations are transformed into nonlinear ordinary differential equations using similarity transformations. The results are intended to maximize system efficiency and performance in these various applications. Flow patterns and heat transfer rates are significantly impacted by slip flow, which happens when the fluid velocity at the boundary is greater than zero.
Assessing quality, reliability and accuracy of polycystic ovary syndrome‐related content on TikTok: A video‐based cross‐sectional analysis
Authors: Riemma Gaetano , Carotenuto Raffaela Maria , Casolari Camilla , Ronsini Carlo , Della Corte Luigi , La Verde Marco , Unfer Vittorio , De Franciscis Pasquale , Laganà Antonio Simone , Etrusco Andrea
Published: February 2025

Objective

Social networks share medical content with no peer‐review or fact‐checking. In the present study we aimed to assess the quality, reliability, and level of misinformation in TikTok videos about polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

Methods

We performed a cross‐sectional analysis of TikTok videos retrieved using “PCOS” as the search term and analyzed using patient education materials assessment tool for audio‐visual content (PEMAT A/V), modified DISCERN (mDISCERN), global quality scale (GQS), video information and quality index (VIQI) and misinformation assessment were employed.

Results

A total of 180 videos were included. Most videos were partially accurate (containing 25%–50% of false information) or uninformative (more than 50%) (56.7% and 6.6%, respectively) with a significantly higher proportion of inaccurate or uninformative videos from PCOS‐patients than healthcare professionals (14.4% vs. 0%; P < 0.001) as well as for partially accurate videos (78.4% vs. 37.5%; P < 0.001). PEMAT A/V scores for understandability and actionability were 50% (interquartile range [IQR]: 33%–58%) and 25% (IQR: 25%–50%), respectively with significantly higher understandability for healthcare professionals (54% [IQR: 42%–71%] vs. 33% [IQR: 25%–50%], P < 0.001). Median mDISCERN was 2 (IQR: 1–3) (low degree of reliability), with videos by healthcare professionals scoring significantly higher than those by patients (2 [IQR: 2–3] vs. 1 [IQR: 0–2]; P = 0.001).

Intermediate‐low overall video quality was reported in VIQI with median score of 12 (IQR: 10–15) and significantly lower scores for patients (9 [IQR: 5–12] vs. 13 [IQR: 12–17]; P < 0.001). Similarly, median GQS score was overall intermediate for degree of usefulness (median 3 [IQR: 2–4]), but patient‐created videos were of significantly lower quality (median 2 [IQR: 2–3] vs. 4 [IQR: 3–4]; P < 0.001).

Conclusion

PCOS‐related videos on TikTok were mostly misinformative and of low quality and reliability. Healthcare professionals' videos were more informative with had higher quality compared to patient‐created content. Identifying and addressing low‐quality content is crucial for guiding future public health initiatives and improving the dissemination of trustworthy medical information on social networks.
Penile fracture after nerve‐sparing radical prostatectomy: Case report and review of literature
Authors: Fukagawa Eri , Sano Masayuki , Shimbo Masaki , Endo Fumiyasu , Hattori Kazunori
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Penile fractures typically do not occur in patients unable to maintain an adequate erection. Erectile dysfunction is known as one of the major complications of radical prostatectomy, and no cases of postoperative penile fractures have been reported.

Case presentation

A 78‐year‐old male with a history of radical prostatectomy with bilateral nerve‐sparing for prostate cancer 12 years ago presented with a penile injury sustained during erection. Clinical examination showed subcutaneous hemorrhage and swelling throughout the penis, and magnetic resonance imaging showed discontinuity of the tunica albuginea. Emergent repair identified and corrected a laceration on the right lateral corpus cavernosum. He reported no complications and could maintain an erection after the surgery.

Conclusion

This is the first reported case of penile fracture following radical prostatectomy, as well as the eldest case of penile fracture to date.
All physical reservoir computing system with tunable temporal dynamics for multi‐timescale information processing
Authors: Huang Wanxin , Wang Yiru , Ming Jianyu , Liu Shanshuo , Liu Jing , Fu Jingwei , Wang Haotian , Li Wen , Xie Yannan , Xie Linghai , Ling Haifeng , Huang Wei
Published: February 2025

Physical reservoir computing (PRC) offers an effective computing paradigm for spatiotemporal information processing with low training costs. Achieving controllable regulation over the temporal dynamics of devices to meet the computational demands of each physical layer is a key challenge for realizing high‐performance PRC chips. Here, we proposed a homogeneously integrated all‐PRC with tunable temporal dynamics. Utilizing the modulation effect of oxygen vacancies on the energy barrier of the pentacene/ZnO interface, short‐term memory, and long‐term memory switching characteristics have been achieved within the same device structure. Furthermore, by altering the gate voltage, the reservoir exhibited a broad range ratio of temporal characteristics (>102), which provides the potential to map information with different temporal characteristics. Inspired by the process of encoding and reconstructing spatiotemporal information in the human visual system, a biomimetic obstacle recognition system has been constructed to assist visually impaired individuals in walking, demonstrating excellent accuracy in obstacle types (100%) and distances (97.2%) recognition. This work offers a promising avenue for the development of an integrated PRC system with multi‐timescale information processing capability.

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Topic: Seasonal Phytoplankton Responses to Environmental Variables in Lagos Lagoon, Nigeria (West Africa)
Authors: Okorie Blessing Chinomso , Komoe Koffi , Onyema Ikenna Charles , Schubert Hendrik , Amankwah Afua Amponsah , Agboka Kossi‐Messan Jacques
Published: February 2025

An ecosystem's ability to interact with biotic and abiotic factors typically reveals its health and functionality. Twelve sites in Lagos Lagoon were sampled monthly over an entire year, covering the wet and dry seasons on the water parameters and phytoplankton composition to determine their seasonal link. A two‐way factorial ANOVA (p < 0.05) revealed significant seasonal differences in water temperature, pH, EC, turbidity, salinity, DO, phosphate, and zinc. A total of 40 phytoplankton species were recorded from the study area. Four major algal groups were in the order of: Bacillariophyta > Cyanophytoa > Dinophyta > Clorophyta concerning their quantitative abundance. Notable species were Aulacoseira sp., Coscinodiscus sp., Bacillaria sp., Biddulphia sp., Hemisdiscus sp., Chaetoceros sp., Ceratium sp., Thalassionema sp., Oscillatoria sp., and Microcystis sp. across the wet and dry seasons of the study. Turbidity, EC, salinity, DO, TDS, nitrate, and COD showed a strong affinity with the distribution of phytoplankton community as evident from canonical correspondence analysis. The Margalef and Shannon‐Wiener diversity indexes indicated moderately rich phytoplankton diversity in the lagoon ecosystem. The findings provide relevant information on the seasonal phytoplankton response to water parameters in Lagos Lagoon.
Tailoring Digital Content to Address Occupational Injustice: Improving Accessibility and Equity for Marginalized Groups
Authors: Eise Jessica , Thoene Ulf
Published: February 2025

Creating equity in access to digital content and tools in the face of global chronic stressors can improve inclusivity and reduce an exacerbation of marginalization. The socio‐political aspects of life are inherent in occupation and may reveal internal and external barriers that block meaningful digital engagement and inhibit a community's ability to thrive. In this article, the concept of occupational injustice is the lens through which we examine digital environments, content, and tools so that we may improve the marginalization and inequity experienced by certain groups. Based on 57 in‐depth interviews with coffee stakeholders in Colombia, this study is a qualitative assessment of how occupation influences digital use. Data are gathered through participants' use of a tailored climate change adaptation website, www.climaycafe.com, and the users' reported experience. The data reveal that occupation influences digital usage through (1) how a user engages based on an occupation's social status, (2) what a user values based on occupational demands, (3) what is perceived as reliable and trustworthy based on occupational influence, and (4) feature preferences based on occupational exposure to technology. The findings demonstrate that digital content and tools can be tailored to reduce occupational injustice through an audience‐centric focus that enhances accessibility, usability, and digital equity.
Network Traffic Prediction Model Based on Convolutional Neural Networks‐Long Short‐Term Memory and iTransformer
Authors: Gong Mingju , Cui Hanwen , Jing Shaomin , Huang Jiabin , Ma Lintao , Wang Yining , Xu Wei
Published: February 2025

Accurately predicting network traffic is crucial for dynamically deploying computing resources in network data centers and reducing carbon emissions. In this paper, a hybrid prediction model Convolutional Neural Networks‐Long Short‐Term and iTransformer (CNN‐LSTM‐iTransformer) based on CNN‐LSTM and iTransformer is proposed. CNN—LSTM is used to capture local features and long—term dependencies, while iTransformer is employed for feature relevance learning and prediction. In addition, the Huber Loss function is used to further improve the model prediction accuracy. In the experiment, the dataset was provided by Ant Financial Group, and the experimental results show that CNN—LSTM—iTransformer significantly reduces MAE to 0.112, MSE to 0.0212, MAPE to 0.123, and RWMAPE which represents prediction risk to 0.122, so the hybrid model CNN‐LSTM‐iTransformer achieves not only a higher prediction accuracy but also a lower prediction risk.
Bridging the gap: A critical review to empower pharmacists to address disparities in type 2 diabetes prevention and management among African American men
Authors: Kiles Tyler Marie , Litten Kathryn
Published: February 2025

Structural disparities and sociocultural challenges exist that disadvantage African American men in preventing and managing diabetes. Targeted outreach and strategies to prevent or improve outcomes for African American men at risk for type 2 diabetes are a desperate need and a unique challenge. This critical review describes the complex nature of these disparities and presents strategies for clinical pharmacists to effectively engage with African American men to improve diabetes care. This review will provide background and suggest strategies to overcome structural challenges related to health care, as well as equip clinical pharmacists with communication tools and resources to address interpersonal differences to improve outcomes for African American men with diabetes. The recommendations herein include structural considerations, communication strategies, patient education best practices, and culturally tailored diet and exercise recommendations. African American men warrant consideration and targeted intervention for diabetes prevention and management, especially as the current pharmacy workforce is culturally discordant. More research is needed in this area to determine best practices; however, in order to meet the current needs of this population, the strategies described may prove beneficial in improving relationships and providing better clinical care for African American men with diabetes.
Enhanced Hair Regrowth Through Dual‐Wavelength Low‐Level Laser Therapy: A Comparative Study on Mice
Authors: Gao He , Liu Yao , Liu Zhaiyi , Wang Pengquan , Qin Zhaoyin , Liao Shuanglin , Mo Jia , Wang Lin , Chui Hsiang‐Chen
Published: February 2025

Low‐level laser therapy (LLLT) is a non‐invasive treatment that uses low‐power lasers or light sources to stimulate biological responses. Previous studies focused on single‐wavelength effects on hair growth in mice. In this study, we investigated dual‐wavelength combinations to enhance hair regrowth. Using light‐emitting diodes (LEDs) at 670, 680, 780, and 880 nm, we assessed the correlation between different wavelength pairs and hair regrowth after shaving in mice. Phototherapy was conducted over 14 days, with results analyzed through surface image analysis and histological examination. Our findings indicate that dual‐wavelength therapy is superior to single‐wavelength treatment and significantly more effective than the untreated control, demonstrating its potential for improved hair regrowth.
VELYS robotic‐assisted total knee arthroplasty: Enhanced accuracy and comparable early outcomes versus manual instrumentation during adoption
Authors: Alton Timothy B. , Severson Erik P. , Ford Marcus C. , Lesko James , Leslie Ian J.
Published: February 2025

Purpose

This study assessed the accuracy and early clinical outcomes of the VELYS™ Robotic‐Assisted solution for total knee arthroplasty (TKA).

Methods

A multicenter, prospective non‐randomized 1:1 cohort study was conducted at five sites. Subjects underwent TKA with either manual instrumentation or with robotic‐assistance (RA). RA procedures were the first conducted at each site, therefore, representing the adoption phase for each surgeon. Mechanical alignment was targeted in the manual arm, while the target and technique varied in the RA arm. The primary objective was a non‐inferiority (NI) analysis of the accuracy of the hip–knee–ankle (HKA) for RA versus manual, with a 1.5° NI margin. The accuracy of the mechanical medial distal femoral angle (mMDFA), mechanical medial proximal tibial angle (mMPTA) tibial posterior slope (TPS) angles were measured. Adverse events (AEs) and patient‐reported outcome measures (PROMs) were collected at 12 weeks and 1 year.

Results

One hundred participants were recruited for both manual and RA groups, the mean preoperative demographics and PROM scores were similar. The primary endpoint NI analysis was successful (p < 0.0001). The RA group demonstrated improved alignment accuracy of the femoral and tibial components compared to manual (mMDFA 1.3 vs. 1.9, p = 0.0026, mMPTA 1.2 vs. 1.5, p = 0.026, TPS 1.7 vs. 2.8, p < 0.0001). Serious AEs occurred in fewer RA subjects than in the manual (6 vs. 16, p = 0.040). Mean PROMs at 12 weeks and 1 year in the RA group compared to manual were either equivalent or improved (Forgotten Joint Score and pain at 12 weeks).

Conclusions

This study found that the RA system can be safely adopted without adversely impacting the long leg alignment or increasing the risk of complications. Further, it was observed that the accuracy of the femoral and tibial component positioning was improved, and there were positive trends in the rate of serious AEs and some PROMs at early follow‐up.

Level of Evidence

Level II.
Additional Stem Resection for Control of Massive Bleeding After Polypectomy for a Pedunculated Colonic Polyp
Authors: Mimura Shima , Kozuka Kazuhiro , Kinouchi Yui , Koyama Yukiko , Funaki Toshiharu , Yamashita Takuma , Kondo Akihiro , Oshima Minoru , Okano Keiichi , Kobara Hideki
Published: February 2025

Background

Polypectomy‐associated bleeding is the most frequent complication of colorectal polypectomy.

Case Presentation

An 82‐year‐old woman underwent polypectomy after an endoloop was placed in a pedunculated polyp in the sigmoid colon. However, the endoloop dislodged, causing massive bleeding from the stem surface. Furthermore, the bleeding vessel could not be identified because of the narrow resection surface and the presence of thrombus and hemorrhage. Therefore, several clips were removed, and polypectomy was performed again on the resection stem to open the resection surface wider and identify the bleeding vessels. Finally, the responsible arterial vessel appeared, leading to complete hemostasis.

Conclusion

The additional stem resection may be a novel method for detecting uncontrolled bleeding after polypectomy for colorectal pedunculated polyps.
Immunogenicity and Efficacy of an Accelerated Vaccination Schedule Against Hepatitis E Virus Infection in Rabbits
Authors: Zhang Fan , Shi Zuliang , Wu Yihan , Xia Jianbo , Wang Ling
Published: February 2025

An important goal of the hepatitis E virus (HEV) vaccine is to prevent HEV in fragile, conflict‐affected, and vulnerable (FCV) settings with documented HEV circulation, but the routine hepatitis E vaccination schedule (0, 1, and 6 months) might not provide adequate protection for them in time. Therefore, in this study, we aimed to evaluate the immunogenicity and efficacy of a HEV vaccine (HEV 239 vaccine, Hecolin) using an accelerated vaccination schedule (vaccine doses at 0 and 7 days). Two doses of accelerated vaccination schedule (0 and 7 days) induced high titers of anti‐HEV protective antibodies in a short period of time in rabbits of the vaccine group, which could protect the rabbits from HEV infection compared with the infection group. Our results suggest that an accelerated vaccination schedule (0 and 7 days) could provide protective antibodies in a shorter time. The accelerated schedule should be further recommended for use as a backup in FCV settings or during a hepatitis E outbreak.
Compact Dual Port MIMO Antenna for X, Ku, K, Ka, and V Band Applications
Authors: Mistri Raj Kumar , Mahto Santosh Kumar , Paul Subhajit , Pattanayak Prabina , Mishra Gajendra Kant
Published: February 2025

The miniaturized dual‐element triple broadband Multiple‐Input‐Multiple‐Output (MIMO) antenna is suggested. By creating a partial ground plane beneath the triple snake‐head‐shaped patch, three wide bandwidths are achieved. The investigated −10 dB impedance bandwidths are 10.2–18.4 GHz, 23.6–29.4 GHz, and 33.4–59.4 GHz, with the fractional bandwidth (FBW) 57.34%, 21.88%, and 56%, respectively. The isolation is improved by joining the microstrip line between the antennas in partial ground plane. The diversity performance of MIMO antenna is examined by the computational analysis of mean effective gain (MEG), diversity gain (DG), total active reflection coefficient (TARC), envelope correlation coefficient (ECC), ergodic channel capacity (CC), and channel capacity loss (CCL). Prototyping of the suggested design is carried out on FR‐4 dielectric substrate with electrical dimensions 0.524λ0 × 0.715λ0 mm2 (where λ0 is free space wavelength at center frequency of lowest operating band), dielectric constant 4.4, and loss tangent 0.02. The isolation, ECC, peak gain, average total efficiency, and average CC over the operating bands 10.2–18.4 GHz, 23.6–29.4 GHz, and 33.4–59.4 GHz are (−18.8 dB, 0.027, 4.50 dB, 50.81%, 9.46 bps/Hz), (21.4 dB, 0.057, 4.92 dB, 57.03%, 9.74 bps/Hz), and (−31.8 dB, 0.0082, 5.79 dB, 45.9%, 9.22 bps/Hz), respectively. The proposed design covers X (40%), Ku, K (37.7%), Ka (69.2%), and V (55.4%) frequency bands. A good agreement was found between the measurement and simulation.
Entrepreneurial Leadership and Job Crafting Among Millennials in SMEs: The Mediating Role of Work Passion
Authors: Ngo Michelle She Min , Badri Siti Khadijah Zainal
Published: February 2025

In an era marked by rapid shifts in the organizational landscape, organizations value employees who actively engage in job crafting to foster positive organizational development. This emphasis is particularly crucial for small‐and‐medium‐sized enterprises (SMEs) due to their limited financial resources for new recruitment. This study explores the relationship between entrepreneurial leadership and job crafting among millennials employed in SMEs. Additionally, it examines the mediating role of work passion, acting as an “energized‐to” motivation, in the relationship between entrepreneurial leadership and job crafting. By analyzing quantitative data collected in two waves from 352 millennials working in the service sectors of SMEs, the study reveals that entrepreneurial leadership and work passion positively influence only three dimensions of job crafting behaviors, including increasing structural job resources, social job resources, and challenging job demands. Furthermore, the results suggest that work passion partially mediates the relationship between entrepreneurial leadership and the three dimensions of job crafting. Based on these findings, the study recommends practical strategies to cultivate entrepreneurial leadership among individuals holding leadership positions within SMEs.
Effect of an intensive antiplaque regimen on microbiome outcomes after nonsurgical periodontal therapy
Authors: Li Lu , Hayashi‐Okada Yoshiko , Falkner Karen L. , Shimizu Yasumitsu , Zambon Joseph J. , Kirkwood Keith L. , Schifferle Robert E. , Genco Robert J. , Diaz Patricia I.
Published: February 2025

Background

It has been well documented that periodontal treatment decreases the levels of certain disease‐associated species in subgingival plaque. Few studies, however, investigate to which extent periodontal therapy restores a health‐like subgingival community. Here, we conducted a secondary analysis to evaluate microbiome outcomes of nonsurgical periodontal therapy alone or followed by an intensive antiplaque regimen, analyzing microbiome trajectories at the community level with respect to health.

Methods

Eighty‐six subjects with periodontitis stages II/III were evaluated at baseline and 6 months after receiving scaling and root planing alone (SRP, n = 41) or followed by an antiplaque regimen consisting of use of 0.12% chlorhexidine for 3 months and interdental cleaners for 6 months (SRP + P + S, n = 45). Thirty periodontally healthy subjects served as reference. The subgingival microbiome was characterized by 16S rRNA gene sequencing, and longitudinal within‐subject changes were quantified with respect to a healthy plane (HPL) modeled from the reference group.

Results

Evaluation of individual microbiome trajectories showed that only the SRP + P + S group had a statistically significant reduction in distance to the HPL. However, responses were variable in both groups, with only a fraction of individuals changing in the direction of health. Random forest analysis revealed baseline microbiome composition as a greater predictor of microbiome response than type of treatment rendered.

Conclusion

An adjunct antiplaque regimen resulted in a greater approximation of the microbiome to the healthy state. However, responses varied greatly among subjects highlighting the need for robust and personalized approaches to restore eubiosis.

Plain Language Summary

This study looked at how different treatments for gum disease change the bacteria in the gums of people with moderate to severe gum problems. Eighty‐six people received standard gum treatments, and some also used a mouthwash and special tools to clean between their teeth at home. After 6 months, more people in the group that added the extra cleaning steps had healthier bacteria in their gums than people who received the standard treatment. However, not everyone responded the same way. The study found that the types of bacteria someone had at the start were better at predicting how well the treatment would work, more than the type of treatment itself. This means gum disease treatments may need to be personalized for better results.
Rational application of combined fertilizers improved tea growth and quality components
Authors: Raza Ali , Li Liu , Luo Lin , Asghar Muhammad Ahsan , Shoaib Noman , Yin Chunying
Published: February 2025

BACKGROUND

The excessive and sole use of chemical fertilizers has been found to deteriorate tea quality components. Therefore, to explore the effects of rational application of combined organic and chemical fertilizers on tea growth and quality, a pot experiment was conducted with six treatments of rational and combined organic fertilizer (OF) and chemical fertilizer (CF) which were as follows: control (no fertilizer was applied), 0OF/CF100 (only CF was applied), 25OF/75CF (25% OF + 75% CF), 50CF/50OF (50% OF + 50% CF), 75OF/25CF (75% OF + 25% CF), and 100OF/0CF (only OF was applied). The biomass of tea plant, net photosynthetic rate, chloroplast ultrastructure, and tea quality components including tea polyphenols (TPs), flavonoids, sugars, catechins, caffeine, total amino acids (TAAs), chlorophyll pigments and TP/TAA were measured.

RESULTS

Compared to control, all fertilization treatments significantly improved tea growth, biomass, and quality components including soluble sugars, TAAs, catechins, caffeine, polyphenols and flavonoids in tea leaves. Among all fertilization treatments, 75OF/25CF and 50OF/50CF treatments had higher plant shoot biomass; 75OF/25CF and 100OF/0CF treatments significantly improved chloroplast ultrastructure and increased net photosynthetic rate, and had higher TAAs, polyphenols, catechins and caffeine contents; while 75OF/25CF treatment had higher sugar content and lowest TP/TAA. The principal component analysis (PCA) further explored that 75OF/25CF and 100OF/0CF treatments improved quality components in tea leaves in comparison to the application of only chemical fertilizers.

CONCLUSION

The 75OF/25CF and 100OF/0CF treatments enhanced both tea growth and quality, which indicate that rational and combination of organic and chemical fertilization or organic management had high potential to improve tea growth and the production of high‐yield and better‐quality tea leaves. © 2025 Society of Chemical Industry.
Ex Vivo and In Vitro Proteomic Approach to Elucidate the Relevance of IL‐4 and IL‐10 in Intervertebral Disc Pathophysiology
Authors: Bermudez‐Lekerika Paola , Tseranidou Sofia , Kanelis Exarchos , Nüesch Andrea , Crump Katherine B. , Alexopoulos Leonidas G. , Wuertz‐Kozak Karin , Noailly Jérôme , Le Maitre Christine L. , Gantenbein Benjamin
Published: February 2025

Background

This study investigates the native presence and potential anabolic effects of interleukin (IL)‐4 and IL‐10 in the human intervertebral disc (IVD).

Methods

Human nucleus pulposus (NP) cells cultured in 3D from trauma and degenerate IVDs and NP explants were stimulated with 10 ng/mL IL‐4, IL‐10, or each in combination with 1 ng/mL IL‐1β stimulation. The role of IL‐4 and IL‐10 in the IVD was evaluated using immunohistochemistry, gene expression, and Luminex multiplex immunoassay proteomics (73 secreted) and phosphoproteomics (21 phosphorylated proteins).

Results

IL‐4, IL‐4R, and IL‐10R expression and localization in human cartilage endplate tissue were demonstrated for the first time. No significant gene expression changes were noted under IL‐4 or IL‐10 stimulation. However, IL‐1β stimulation significantly increased MMP3, COX2, TIMP1, and TRPV4 expression in NP cells from trauma IVDs. Combined IL‐4 and IL‐1β treatment induced a significant increase in protein secretion of IL‐1α, IL‐7, IL‐16, IL‐17F, IL‐18, IFNγ, TNF, ST2, PROK1, bFGF2, and stem cell factor exclusively in NP cells from degenerated IVDs. Conversely, the secretome profile of explants revealed an IL‐4–mediated decrease in CXCL13 following treatment with IL‐1β. Combined IL‐10 and IL‐1β treatment increased neurotrophic growth factor secretion compared with IL‐10 baseline.

Conclusions

The NP cell phenotype affects the pleiotropic role of IL‐4, which can induce a pro‐inflammatory response in the presence of catabolic stimuli and enhance the effects of IL‐1β in degenerated IVDs. Environmental factors, including 3D culture and hypoxia, may alter IL‐4's role. Finally, IL‐10's potential neurotrophic effects under catabolic stimuli warrant further investigation to clarify its role in IVD degeneration.
Comparison of double bundle semitendinosus technique and pedicled quadriceps technique in patellar instability
Authors: Özel Tayfun , Yaş Semih , Türkoğlu Hayati Hürol , Ahmadov Asim , Ataoğlu Muhammet Baybars , Kanatlı Ulunay
Published: February 2025

Purpose

To compare clinical and functional outcomes of medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) reconstruction using a minimally invasive pedicled quadriceps tendon (QT) or patella double tunnel technique with semitendinosus tendon (ST) graft in patients with recurrent patella dislocation.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was conducted on 51 patients who underwent MPFL reconstruction between 2014 and 2022, with a minimum 2‐year post‐operative follow‐up. Patients were grouped as QT (n = 24) and ST (n = 27), alongside a control group of 24 healthy individuals. Kujala, Lysholm and Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) scores were evaluated. Isokinetic tests at 60° angular velocity were performed to calculate the limb symmetry index (LSI) and hamstring/quadriceps (H/Q) ratio.

Results

No significant differences were found between groups regarding age, sex, body mass index, time to surgery, or number of dislocations (n.s). Mean Kujala (QT: 89.2 ± 8.9, ST: 85.4 ± 11.4), Lysholm (QT: 90.6 ± 9.4, ST: 87.9 ± 10.7), and VAS (QT: 0.83 ± 1.3, ST: 0.9 ± 1.1) scores showed no statistically significant differences between the groups (n.s). Extension LSI was significantly higher in QT (92.2 ± 10.0%) than ST (81.4 ± 16.4%, p = 0.024), as was flexion LSI (QT: 94.2 ± 10.9%, ST: 83.3 ± 17.5%, p < 0.01). H/Q ratios showed no significant differences between operated and non‐operated sides (n.s). No redislocations or patellar fractures occurred. Apprehension signs were positive in two patients (7.4%) in ST and one patient (4.1%) in QT.

Conclusion

MPFL reconstruction with both ST and pedicled QT grafts yields successful results in well‐selected patient groups. Unlike ST, reconstruction with QT results in extension and flexion strength in the operated extremity that is closer to the non‐operated side and to the healthy control group.

Level of Evidence

Level III, retrospective case–control study.
Reassessing Soil Wind Erosion in Arid Regions of Central Asia: Fully Considering the Contribution of Non‐Photosynthetic Vegetation (NPV)
Authors: Ma Xiaofei , He Huili , Huo Tianci , Su Yuan , Yan Wei
Published: February 2025

Wind erosion refers to wind transport of fine particulate matter and nutrient‐rich materials. This form of erosion can have a considerable impact on the ecological environment and human health. Regional wind protection and sand fixation are considered to be major ecosystem services in arid zones. Previous applications of wind erosion assessment models in arid zones applied green vegetation as the main model parameter. However, there has been little consideration of the role of Non‐Photosynthetic Vegetation (NPV) on wind erosion, which is widely distributed in arid zones. Therefore, this study reconstructed a soil wind erosion model (WEM) applicable to the arid zone of Central Asia by quantitatively assessing regional NPV and coupling NPV with the Revised Wind Erosion Equation (RWEQ) model based on the cusp mutation model. The results showed that NPV significantly reduced wind erosion in northern and central Kazakhstan from 2001 to 2020. The adequate consideration of NPV resulted in a reduction in simulated wind erosion in Central Asia by 400 t km−2 per year. NPV had the greatest effect on wind erosion in spring and autumn, whereas it had least effect in winter, mainly due to the coverage of NPV and the seasonality of wind erosion. Regions showing a positive correlation between temperature and wind erosion were mainly located in northern Kazakhstan with a high coverage of NPV. Precipitation showed a negative correlation with wind erosion. Incorporation of NPV into the RWEQ model improved the accuracy of simulated wind erosion in Central Asia by 8.2%. The proposed method can support mitigation of wind erosion hazards and the improvement of the ecological environment in arid regions of Central Asia. This study can also act as a reference for improving the accuracy of large‐scale simulation of wind erosion.
Optimal Level of Straw Addition After the Autumn Harvest for Black Soil Aggregate Stability
Authors: Li Yu , Fu Yu , Xu Jinzhong , Zhang Chen , Zhang Yupeng , Lei Hanzhe , Zhang Xiaoya
Published: February 2025

In Northeast China, straw residues are integrated into fields to improve the soil structure and fertility after the autumn harvest. However, the optimal amount of straw addition is unclear. To determine whether an increase in straw addition is correlated with an increase in soil aggregate stability, the study focused on black cropland soil and was conducted through field incubation experiment (lasting 150 days) during seasonal freeze–thaw periods, implemented six different straw treatments: CK (0%), SA1 (1%, i.e., 10 g of straw per kg of soil), SA3 (3%), SA5 (5%), SA7 (7%), and SA9 (9%). The results revealed that under freeze–thaw conditions, aggregate stability significantly increased only when the straw addition amount was ≥ 5%. At this straw addition level, straw residues enhanced aggregate stability in two ways. First, the straw decomposition significantly increased SOC content, which serves as a binding substance for aggregates and promotes the formation of aggregates > 0.25 mm. Second, straw particles combined with soil particles to form straw‐soil composite macro‐aggregates that exhibited high water stability. However, aggregate stability was not positively correlated with the straw addition amount. This was because 5% straw addition was sufficient for the soil to reach carbon saturation, and the SOC content showed no significant change with further increasing straw addition. Moreover, excessive straw addition not only led to nitrogen limitation and slowed down the straw decomposition rate but also wasted straw resources. Therefore, 5% straw addition is optimal for improving soil aggregate stability. These findings provide a theoretical basis for how to improve the soil structure and fertility through the rational design of autumn straw return measures, thereby improving soil conditions for spring sowing and seedling emergence in Northeast China.
Avatars' Phygital Social Presence in the Metaverse: An Engaged Theory Perspective
Authors: Sprott David E. , Hollebeek Linda D. , Sigurdsson Valdimar , Clark Moira K. , Urbonavicius Sigitas
Published: February 2025

While prior authors have explored the notions of human and/or automated social presence, these concepts have been predominantly assessed either individually or as mutually exclusive theoretical entities. However, we draw on engaged theory to develop the hybrid concept of phygital social presence that comprises aspects of both the human and automated social presence of metaverse avatars. We define phygital social presence as the degree to which a metaverse avatar instils the feeling in other users that they are in the company of a social entity, as elicited by the avatar's (a) human social presence (i.e., the actions taken by its human user, in line with engaged theory's “ways of acting”), and (b) automated social presence (i.e., the avatar's embodiment or its appearance, look, design, and the character that these emit, in line with engaged theory's “ways of being”). We next propose a conceptual framework and a set of propositions, which suggest that metaverse avatars' (a) human social presence primarily impacts metaverse users' positive or negative behavioral engagement in the metaverse, and (b) automated social presence chiefly influences users' positive or negative cognitive and emotional engagement. Moreover, an avatar's ways of relating, as also informed by engaged theory, primarily impact users' positive or negative social engagement.
Optical, Dielectric, and Thermal Properties of Bio‐Based Polyimides Derived from An Isosorbide‐Containing Diamine
Authors: Tsurusaki Yoshiyuki , Sawada Ririka , Liu Haonan , Ando Shinji
Published: February 2025

The need for functional polymers derived from plant‐based materials has increased from a carbon‐neutral perspective. Herein, six different semialicyclic isosorbide‐containing diamine‐based polyimides (ISSD‐PIs) are synthesized by incorporating isosorbide (ISS), which is a D‐glucose derivative, into the diamine moiety to investigate the relationship between the chemical structure and optical, thermal, and dielectric properties. Compared with the conventional fully aromatic PIs, such as Kapton, the as‐prepared ISSD‐PIs demonstrate excellent optical transparency, low refractive indices (1.554–1.633), low birefringence (0.0084–0.0348) at 1310 nm, and low dielectric constants (2.93–3.36) with moderate dissipation factors (0.0112–0.0267) at 10 GHz. They also exhibit excellent thermal stability, with glass transition temperatures exceeding 250 °C and 5% thermal decomposition temperatures exceeding 400 °C. The chirality of the ISS skeleton remains intact, displaying characteristic circular dichroism. This study shows that the incorporation of ISS into PI chains enhances their optical and dielectric properties while maintaining thermal stability by increasing the free volume and reducing intermolecular interactions. In addition, the physical properties of the ISSD‐PIs are more dependent on the rigidity of the dianhydride moiety, which directly affects the molecular packing of the PI chains, rather than that of the diamine moiety.
How Does New Infrastructure Construction Affect the Supply Chain Risk of Enterprises? Perspective From Supply–Demand Balance
Authors: Wu Shaoyong , Zhang Peiwen , Liu Qiren
Published: February 2025

The stability of an enterprise's supply chains serves as a vital cornerstone in the progression of modern economic system development. New infrastructure, epitomized by network and information infrastructure construction, has emerged as a pivotal global strategy to stimulate economic growth. Its impact on the supply chain risk (SCR) of enterprises deserves in‐depth exploration. Employing the staggered difference‐in‐difference (DID) approach, this study investigates the influence and mechanisms of new infrastructure construction (NIC) on the SCR of enterprises from a perspective of supply–demand balance, leveraging the ‘Broadband China’ strategy as a quasi‐natural experiment. The results indicate that NIC can mitigate the SCR of enterprises, a conclusion that remains robust after rigorous endogeneity and robustness testing. Mechanism analysis suggests that the enhancement of the level of enterprises' intelligent manufacturing and the reduction of the concentration of upstream and downstream serve as two effective channels through which NIC reduces the SCR of enterprises. Heterogeneity analysis shows that NIC more effectively reduces SCR for large‐scale and high‐tech enterprises at the enterprise level. At the industry level, NIC is particularly effective in reducing SCR within highly competitive and technology‐intensive sectors. Additionally, at the regional level, NIC significantly inhibits SCR for enterprises in areas prone to high natural disaster risk. This study validates the fortifying effect of NIC on the supply chain security of enterprises, providing theoretical references and empirical evidence for enhancing the resilience of global micro supply chains.
Risk Factors of Free Flap Outcomes After Head and Neck Cancer Surgery: A Multivariable Analysis From a Single Center Experience
Authors: Tsai Chia‐Hsuan , Yang Cristhiam , Liu Yao‐Chang , Chen Chi‐Ling , Kao Huang‐Kai
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Risk factors for unfavorable outcomes, such as surgical site infection (SSI) and flap loss, following free flap reconstruction in patients with head and neck cancer are repeatedly reported without a definitive conclusion. Institutional reviews and meta‐analyses each have their advantages and limitations. Although this study is without a definitive answer to these questions, it contributes to the literature by identifying potential influencing factors.

Methods

This single‐center cohort study included 596 patients who underwent head and neck reconstruction between 2015 and 2017. Patients were initially divided into two groups based on the presence or absence of SSI, and a similar comparison was made for flap loss. Data were further analyzed using univariate and multivariate logistic regression.

Results

The overall SSI rate was 18.29%, with the age of patients (65–74 years, adjusted OR 2.41, p < 0.001; > 74 years, adjusted OR 3.53, p < 0.001) and segmental mandibulectomy (adjusted OR 1.81, p = 0.035) as independent risk factors. The overall flap failure rate was 4.4%, with medial sural flap (adjusted OR 6.89; p = 0.025) and prolonged operative time per hour (adjusted OR 1.38; p < 0.001) identified as significant influencing factors.

Conclusion

Age should not be the sole determinant for excluding patients for free tissue transfer, though it may elevate the SSI rate. Special attention is potentially needed during postoperative care for patients who received segmental mandibulectomy, medial sural flap, or experienced prolonged operative time. Identifying these risk factors can assist surgeons in optimizing flap outcomes before head and neck reconstruction.
Factors Associated With Claw Toe Deformity Following Vascularized Fibula Flap Harvesting: A Retrospective Analysis of Potential Risk Factors and Preventive Strategies
Authors: Ishibashi Shigeki , Shinomiya Rikuo , Hayashi Yuta , Tashiro Tsubasa , Nagamatsu Shogo , Hamana Tomoaki , Sunagawa Toru , Adachi Nobuo
Published: February 2025

Background

Claw toe deformity at the donor site is a complication following vascularized fibula flap surgery. Despite its potential to necessitate further surgery, the factors contributing to this complication are not well understood. Therefore, this study aimed to identify factors associated with this complication and propose potential preventive strategies.

Patients and Methods

This retrospective study analyzed 40 cases of vascularized fibula flap harvesting conducted between 2010 and 2022. The presence of claw toe deformity was evaluated, and various patient and surgical factors were analyzed. Postoperative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and intraoperative indocyanine green angiography images were also assessed.

Results

Claw toe deformity was observed in 25% of patients, with a significantly higher incidence among those undergoing primary wound closure (p = 0.018). Age (p = 0.595), body mass index (p = 0.482), smoking status (p = 0.157), diabetes (p = 0.556), peripheral arterial disease (p > 0.999), preoperative chemotherapy (p = 0.715), operative time (p = 0.080), harvested fibula length (p = 0.981), skin paddle size (p = 0.695), and horizontal width of skin flap (p = 0.906) were not significantly associated with claw toe deformity. The cutoff values for primary wound closure were identified as a skin flap horizontal width of 3.5 cm and a horizontal width‐to‐circumference ratio of 10.4%. MRI revealed signal changes in the flexor hallucis longus on T2‐weighted images in all six cases with claw toe deformity and in 6 of the 12 cases without deformity. Indocyanine green angiography revealed ischemia in the flexor hallucis longus in all six examined cases; however, four of these cases did not develop claw toe deformity.

Conclusion

This study emphasizes the importance of the wound closure method and skin flap size in primary closure for preventing claw toe deformity after vascularized fibula flap procedures. These findings may contribute to improved postoperative outcomes.
A SEIQRS Computer Virus Propagation Model and Impulse Control With Two Delays
Authors: Wang JunLing , Chang Xinxin , Zhong Lei
Published: February 2025

Computer viruses have caused great harm and nasty effects on people's lives. Therefore, analyzing and establishing the corresponding mathematical model can help explore and study the propagation law of computer viruses. On this basis, we apply the theory of computer virus propagation dynamics by combining computer viruses and the variability of their removal rates of different states in the network. The study presents a new Susceptible‐Exposed‐Infected‐Quarantine‐Recovered‐Susceptible (SEIQRS) computer virus propagation model with two delays. In addition, we introduce impulse control, an optimal control method, to explore the effect of the impulse period on the model. We first derive the basic reproduction number of the model. Then, the characteristic equations and eigenvalues are discussed analytically by controlling the delay parameters variation in order to analyze local stability and Hopf bifurcation for the computer virus model. Next, we add impulse control and find that it could better control the propagation of computer viruses. Firstly, we analyze the dynamical behavior of this model using the relevant theories of time delay differential equations to provide a theoretical basis for the effective elimination and control of virus propagation in computer networks. Secondly, we use Matlab to conduct numerical simulations, which verify the correctness of theoretical results. Finally, we synthesize the theoretical and experimental analysis of the present model to provide some scientific suggestions for better control of the spreading of computer viruses.
Well‐Posedness, Long‐Time Behavior, and Discretization of Some Models of Nonlinear Acoustics in Velocity–Enthalpy Formulation
Authors: Egger Herbert , Fritz Marvin
Published: February 2025

We study a class of models for nonlinear acoustics, including the well‐known Westervelt and Kuznetsov equations, as well as a model of Rasmussen that can be seen as a thermodynamically consistent modification of the latter. Using linearization, energy estimates, and fixed‐point arguments, we establish the existence and uniqueness of solutions that, for sufficiently small data, are global in time and converge exponentially fast to equilibrium. In contrast to previous work, our analysis is based on a velocity–enthalpy formulation of the problem, whose weak form reveals the underlying port‐Hamiltonian structure. Moreover, the weak form of the problem is particularly well suited for a structure‐preserving discretization. This is demonstrated in numerical tests, which also highlight typical characteristics of the models under consideration.
Robust H∞$$ {H}_{\infty } $$ Analysis and Control of Fractional‐Order Systems With Ellipsoidal Parametric Uncertainty
Authors: Zhu Long‐Jun , Lu Jun‐Guo , Zhu Zhen , Zhang Qing‐Hao
Published: February 2025

In the domain of systems control, the robust control of fractional‐order systems (FOSs) with ellipsoidal parameter uncertainty has received scant attention, even though ellipsoidal uncertainty is significant for quantifying and modeling parameter uncertainties. This paper addresses the gap by focusing on analysis and control of FOSs with ellipsoidal parametric uncertainty, where the fractional order is delimited to the range . Two distinct categories of ellipsoidal parameter uncertainty models are considered: one corresponding to FOSs with uncertain zero positions and the other to FOSs with uncertain pole and zero positions. First, sufficient conditions for the performance analysis of FOSs with ellipsoidal parametric uncertainty are established by extending the bounded real lemma for FOSs. Next, the problems of controller synthesis are analyzed, and the state feedback controllers are designed, along with the establishment of sufficient conditions for stabilization. These conditions are given in the form of linear matrix inequalities (LMIs). Lastly, several numerical examples are provided to verify the effectiveness of the proposed results.