bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clinical-Diagnostic and Therapeutic Advances in Feline Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy Phenotype
Authors: Gaia de Sousa Felipe , Mendes Ana Cristina , Carvalho Luisa de , Beier Suzane
Published: February 2025

A comprehensive literature review was conducted with the aim of describing the existing evidence and the most recent therapeutic advancements. The phenotype of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy is characterised by the development of concentric hypertrophy, which is variable but often asymmetric, primarily occurring in the left ventricle. The disease is marked by diastolic dysfunction, with a reduction in the intracavitary internal diameter, due to the disordered positioning of cardiomyocytes and the presence of collagen fibres, which thicken the myocardial tissue and impair relaxation. There is strong evidence of mutational components in the sarcomeric genes contributing to the development of the disease. The clinical signs are variable and are frequently associated with congestive heart failure and arterial thromboembolism. Diagnosis is determined through the combination of clinical, laboratory, and imaging tests, although there are still gaps that need further investigation. Therapeutic management aims to control clinical signs, disease progression, and to improve both quality of life and life expectancy.
Myocardial and Circulating microRNA Expression Profile and Biomarker Potential in LVAD-Supported End-Stage Heart Failure Patients – a Comprehensive Review and Update of the Literature
Authors: Paic Frane , Gosev Igor , Wood Katherine L
Published: February 2025

Left ventricular assist devices (LVAD) have been widely adopted for the treatment of both pediatric and adult patients with end-stage heart failure. By unloading the failing ventricle, maintaining sufficient end-organ perfusion, and improving the heart's functional capacity, they are increasingly used as bridges to recovery, cardiac transplantation, or destination therapy, thus improving patients' overall survival rate and life quality. However, beyond their life-sustaining functions, these devices pumping total cardiac output may have a range of short and long-term harmful effects initiated by interactions of blood cells with artificial surfaces at the LVAD/Host interface or by non-physiological flow conditions generated by these devices. One of the major challenges in LVAD therapy is the lack of satisfactory sensitivity and specificity of the currently available biomarkers, making it difficult to differentiate the patients who will benefit from LVAD placement from those at high risk for adverse events and poor outcomes. To this end, myocardial miRNAs have emerged as promising targets for investigating heart failure-related molecular pathways. In addition, extracellular circulatory miRNAs whose concentrations change with pathological state and disease progression may also mediate intercellular signaling pathways that are important in the functional and structural changes associated with the development and progression of HF. Herein, we provide a comprehensive overview of the currently known cardiac miRNAs involved in LVAD-induced myocardial reverse remodeling, remission, and recovery, and circulatory cell-free and platelet-enriched miRNAs that may serve as potential non-invasive biomarkers for pre-LVAD decision-making or monitoring and predicting patient response to LVAD therapy.
Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices Regarding Influenza and Pertussis Immunization During Pregnancy in Greece
Authors: Maltezou Panagiota Georgia , Kourkouni Eleni , Kousi Dimitra , Hadjichristodoulou Christos , Dadouli Aikaterini , Briana Despoina , Papaevangelou Vassiliki
Published: February 2025

Background/ Objectives: Vaccination against influenza and pertussis in pregnant women protects mother and child through the transfer of protective antibo‐ dies across the placenta. However, pregnant women’s vaccine hesitancy is a major barrier to achieve satisfactory vaccination coverage in many developed countries. Methods: Greek pregnant women’s vaccination knowledge, attitudes, and practices were recorded. Sampling across country’s districts was applied to achieve geographic representativeness. Results: Questionnaires from 474 mothers were collected. Their mean age was 34 (±5) years. Vaccination uptake was 16.8% and 45.7%, for pertussis and influenza respectively. During their recent pregnancy, 68.9% and 27.1% of the responders had been informed by their gynecologists regarding influenza and pertussis maternal immunization, respectively, indicating that gynecologists miss to inform a significant rate of pregnant women. According to multiple logistic regression, women who gave birth during spring (OR: 2.29 vs. winter delivery, p=0.042) and those with an MSc or PhD (OR: 2.93 vs. school graduates, p=0.015) were more likely to receive influenza vaccination. Factors favoring influenza vaccination included doctorʹs recommendation (OR: 18.86, p<0.001), being not/somewhat afraid of potential vaccine side effects during pregnancy (OR: 2.09, p=0.012), considering flu as relatively/very dangerous during pregnancy (OR: 8.05, p<0.001), and flu vaccine as relatively/completely safe (OR: 4.37, p<0.001). Doctorʹs recommendation (OR: 29.55, p<0.001) and considering pertussis a relatively/very serious risk to the motherʹs health during pregnancy (OR: 6.00, p=0.002) were factors associated with pertussis vaccination during pregnancy. Conclusions: Education of both expectant mothers and obstetricians is urgently needed to increase immunization coverage during pregnancy. Low influenza vaccination coverage among women delivering during winter and low pertussis immunization rates, in combination with low recommendation rates for both vaccines strongly indicate that Greek obstetricians focus on maternal health alone. Their perspectives play an instrumental role in vaccine acceptance during pregnancy, shaping the immunization inclusion maps.
Reflections among Modern Physics, Philosophy and Theism
Authors: Di Sia Paolo
Published: February 2025

In recent years, authoritative scientists and thinkers have shown a renewed interest in the question concerning the relationship between the religious vision of reality and the scientific description of the world. They speak of “anthropic coincidences”, reasoning on the fact that many characteristics related to the laws of physics seem to exactly coincide with what is required for the emergence of life. The paper discusses some of these themes, in particular considering examples taken from physics, and evaluating possible theological interpretations, which also refer to Scripture. It is then considered the question of why something exists and not nothing, the struggle between good and evil, and the antagonism in nature between different forces that oppose each other.
Research on the Primary Factors Influencing the Quality of Clinical Coding Under DRG Payment Systems: A Survey Research
Authors: Fu Yinghong , Gao Guangying , Xing Huiying , Dai Shanshan , Cai Xinyu , Tian Jiashuai
Published: February 2025

Background: The main data basis for the Diagnosis-Related Group(DRG) payment methodology is the disease diagnosis and clinical codes in the Medical Record(MR) . Problems such as up-coding have arisen during implementation in many countries, and problems with MR quality and solutions have been studied mostly from the physician's perspective. We investigated and analyzed the main influences on clinical coding from the perspectives of directors and coders in Medical Records Section(MRS) to provide recommendations for improvements in data quality. Methods: The questionnaire was developed, revised and improved using literature research and expert consultation methods. From June 13th to June 19th, 2024, the electronic questionnaire survey was conducted among the directors and coders of medical records department in healthcare organization. A total of 484 directors and coders were included in this study. And relevant statistics were computed and analyzed by non-parametric tests. Results: The results showed that the male-to-female ratio is about 1:2, and the ratio of MRS directors to coders is about 1:3. The highest proportion of bachelor's degree is 65.3%, with 29.5% having a major in Health Information Management(HIM), and 70.7% holding junior and intermediate professional titles. Coders should possess strong job responsibilities (92.36%), coding skills (91.33%), knowledge of clinical medicine(90.70%), and other comprehensive qualities and abilities. When encountering difficult problems, the clinical coders should first communicate with clinical doctors (91.95%). The two main factors affecting the quality of MR and clinical coding are the individual factors of doctors (88.84%) and the individual factors of coders (85.54%). Conclusions: Doctors and coders are the primary factors influencing the quality of clinical coding. It is recommended to establish a systematic training program for doctors to enhance the connotative quality of MR, for coders to solidify professional coding skills, strengthen communication and exchange, adopt reasonable behaviors, avoid moral hazards, and effectively improve the quality of clinical coding.
Logics of Statements in Context – First-Order Logic Files
Authors: Wolter Uwe
Published: February 2025

Logics of Statements in Context have been proposed as a general framework to describe and relate, in a uniform and unifying way, a broad spectrum of logics and specification formalisms which also comprise “open formulas”. Especially, it has been shown that we can define arbitrary first-order “open formulas” in arbitrary categories. At present, there are two deficiencies. In the general case only signatures with predicate symbols are considered and institutions of statements in context are only defined for single signatures. In this paper we elaborate the special case of traditional many-sorted First-Order Logic. We show that any many-sorted first-order signature Σ with predicate and (!) operation symbols gives rise to an institution FLΣ of Σ-statements in context, and that any signature morphism results in a comorphism between the corresponding institutions. We prove that we obtain a functor FL:Sig→coIns from the category of signatures into the category of institutions and comorphisms. We construct a corresponding Grothendieck institution FL♯ and prove that FL♯ is indeed an extension of the traditional institution of First-Order Logic which only comprises “closed formulas”. We also investigate substitutions in detail and discuss (elementary) diagrams in the sense of traditional First-Order Logic.
Traditional Method vs AI. Which Is Better? Barrett Universal Ii or Ladas Super Formula
Authors: Yasar Ionela-Iasmina , Yasar Servet , Al Barri Leila , Mercea Nadina , Munteanu Mihnea , Stanca Horia Tudor
Published: February 2025

Pursuing optimal visual outcomes following cataract surgery remains a cornerstone of modern ophthalmology. Central to this objective is the precise calculation of intraocular lens power. However, despite significant advancements in biometric measurements and computational algorithms, variability in refractive outcomes continues to pose a challenge. This study aims to analyse the outcomes comprehensively by reviewing established and newer techniques. The eyes included in the study were evaluated based on various criteria, and a total of 210 eyes which met these criteria were included in the research. Our study is a retrospectively designed observational research study. The study included individuals who had experienced successful IOL implantation to correct refractive errors or cataracts. The ARGOS SS-OCT device is a spectral-domain optical coherence tomography system was used in the study. In measuring the lens power, values were obtained using Barrett Universal II and Ladas Super Formula. These values were compared. Postoperative assessments were conducted at 1-3 months, and 3-12 months, including spherical equivalent. In our study, 210 eyes were examined. The mean age of the participants was 63.44±11.62 years. The study's two most frequently used lens brands were ALCON and ZEISS. The lens powers calculated using the Barrett Universal II and Ladas Super Formula were compared. The means of the two calculations were found to be very close, and no statistically significant difference was observed between them. We compared the spherical equivalent values calculated during the participants' first and second postoperative follow-ups. The spherical equivalent values were similar, with no statistically significant difference. Formulas represent significant advances in ophthalmology and significantly improve visual outcomes; however, differences in their methodology and predictive accuracy warrant further analysis.
Hubble Entropic States and Hubble Radiation Pressure from the Hubble Sphere Energy-Gap (Mass-Gap)
Authors: Haug Espen
Published: February 2025

We will demonstrate that the number of states, based on entropy, is related to the Hubble sphere radiation energy gap, which is directly linked to the Hubble sphere mass gap (energy gap) recently introduced by Haug [1–3]. This energy gap represents the minimum energy a photon can possess inside a black hole Hubble sphere. Moreover, this minimum energy leads to a minimum acceleration that has been detected, suggesting that the Hubble pressure that also can be called entropic pressure may have already been observed.
Necrotizing Fasciitis: Role of VAC Therapy and Multidisciplinary Approach in Management
Authors: Lombardo Franco Michael , Zummo Salvatore , Zanghì Marta , Falzone Umberto , Amato Giuseppe , Di Buono Giuseppe , Romano Giorgio , Zanghì Guido Nicola
Published: February 2025

Necrotizing fasciitis (NF) is a rare, rapidly progressing soft tissue infection characterized by tissue necrosis and a high mortality rate, exceeding 40% in severe cases. Optimal management requires early diagnosis, aggressive surgical debridement, targeted antibiotic therapy, and advanced wound care with complex dressings. Negative pressure wound therapy (VAC Therapy) has emerged as an effective option to enhance wound healing and reduce complications. This article examines the pathogenesis, risk factors, diagnosis, and management of NF, including a successfully treated clinical case and a critical review of recent literature.
Inverse Design of Broadband AMC Metasurface for RCS Reduction Using Simulated Annealing
Authors: Xia Haoda , Liang Xiaoyu , Jia Bowen , Shi Pei , Chen Zhihong , Pu Shi , Xu Ning
Published: February 2025

In this study, we present a novel design methodology for unit cells in chessboard metasurfaces, aimed at reducing the radar cross-section (RCS) for linearly polarized waves. The design employs rotational symmetry and incorporates ten continuous parameters to define the metasurface units, enabling the creation of flexible 2D structures. The geometrical parameters of the two units are then optimized using a simulated annealing (SA) algorithm to achieve a low RCS chessboard metasurface. Following optimization, the properties of metasurface were ex perimentally verified. Experimental results show a significant RCS reduction of 10 dB within the 7.6–15.5 GHz range, with a peak reduction reaching-28 dB at normal incidence. For bistatic RCS, the metasurface effectively scatters incident waves into four distinct lobes. The proposed method offers an alternative strategy for the inverse design of low RCS metasurfaces and can be extended to applications in polarization control, phase gradient manipulation, and transmissive metasurfaces.
Sustainable Roadmap for China’s Low-Carbon Road Transportation: From Policy to Practice
Authors: Yi Yao , Sun Z.Y. , Fu Bi'an , Tong Wen-Yu , Huang Rui-Song
Published: February 2025

The road transport sector in China is confronted with the dual challenges of escalating demand and the critical need to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions. This situation necessitates urgently formulating a precise and comprehensive low-carbon development framework congruent with the objectives outlined in the Paris Agreement. By synthesizing pertinent national and regional policies, this analysis underscores the pivotal role of governmental interventions in promoting innovation and facilitating investment in low-carbon technologies. We propose a series of strategic public interventions essential for transitioning to low-carbon transportation systems within the forthcoming five-year period. These are anticipated to effectively counterbalance the anticipated rise in carbon emissions triggered by increasing demand. Furthermore, the present analysis encompasses a comparative assessment of various transportation technologies' benefits, drawbacks, and obstacles. This assessment focuses mainly on the developmental maturity of these technologies and the low-carbon potential inherent in electric and fuel-cell vehicles. Ultimately, this study delineates a strategic roadmap for establishing a resilient low-carbon transport system, contributing to the broader discourse on sustainable transportation. It also provides actionable recommendations for policymakers and stakeholders dedicated to fostering a greener future.
The Role of The Bible and Theological Education in Preventing and Stopping Individualism and Extremism: Examining the Limited Help of Politics and Economics
Authors: Rusu Elisei
Published: February 2025

In a world increasingly defined by isolationist values and ideological extremism, the question of how to foster a sense of unity and shared purpose is pressing. Political policies and economic structures certainly influence societal well-being, but they often lack the moral and ethical frameworks needed to address issues like individualism and extremism at their core. The Bible and theological higher education, by contrast, offer an alternative approach, encouraging community-centered values, critical engagement with belief systems, and an ethos of compassion. Through this essay the author explores the unique role of the Bible and theological higher education in counteracting the spread of individualism and extremism, while also examining why political and economic measures may provide limited assistance in achieving these ends.
Older Patients May Fare Better Following Hip Resurfacing Arthroplasty
Authors: Shanaa Jean , Asad Shaheryar , Augustynski Robert , Bernstein Ethan , Bindra Guneet S. , Marwin Scott
Published: February 2025

Background:

Since its inception, activity level and bone quality have been essential considerations for patients undergoing hip resurfacing arthroplasty (HRA). Moreover, younger patients tend to experience fewer complications, lower revision rates, and better outcomes after any surgery. This study aims to compare the clinical outcomes, complication rates, and survivorship rates between younger and older patients undergoing HRA, providing insights into whether active older patients with appropriate bone quality can still achieve significant benefits from HRA.

Methods:

A literature search was conducted using PubMed, Embase, and Scopus databases. Articles were screened by title and abstract, followed by full-text review. A meta-analysis was performed using a random effects model to compare UCLA scores and odds of prosthesis survivorship between younger (<50 years of age) and older (>50 years of age) patients in studies comparing both age groups. Statistical significance was defined as a 95% confidence interval that does not include 1. In addition, the average complication and prosthesis survivorship rates were calculated and compared between younger and older hips using both comparative and noncomparative studies.

Results:

From an initial pool of 1,286 articles, 31 met inclusion criteria, encompassing 22,691 patients. Analysis revealed a pooled mean age of 33.65 years for the younger cohort and 63 years for the older cohort, and a complication rate of 5.37% in younger compared with 3.83% in older hips. The difference in postoperative UCLA scores was deemed statistically insignificant based on meta-analysis. However, the difference in mean survivorship rates was found to be statistically significant at 86% for younger and 94.9% for older patients through univariate analysis and meta-analysis.

Conclusion:

There is no significant difference in postoperative outcomes between younger and older patients undergoing HRA. In fact, older patients seem to experience higher prosthesis survivorship rates compared with younger cohorts. Older patients who are active and possess good bone quality can achieve outcomes comparable to their younger counterparts, indicating that HRA may be viable for a broader age range than previously considered.

Level of Evidence:

Level III, systematic review of Level II, III, and IV studies. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
Cloud-based workflow to process regional topobathymetric lidar datasets for integrated USACE shoaling analyses
Authors: Sylvester Charlene , Hartman Michael
Published: February 2025

This Coastal and Hydraulics Engineering Technical Note (CHETN) details a methodology to process and format regional topobathymetric datasets for use in the US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Corps Shoaling Analysis Tool (CSAT).
LA ADHESIÓN DE LA UNIÓN EUROPEA AL CONVENIO DE ESTAMBUL Y SU CUMPLIMIENTO INDIRECTO: REFORZANDO LOS VALORES EUROPEOS
Authors: Ballesta Martí Lidia
Published: February 2025

This paper analyses how the European Union’s process of accession to the Istanbul Convention has driven progress in the fight against violence against women in various ways. On one hand, the EU’s accession to this international treaty imposes an obligation on EU institutions to ensure its enforcement, as well as its indirect application to Member States. On the other hand, actions taken by EU institutions, while awaiting the resolution of delays in the Council regarding the Convention’s ratification, have led to significant progress in combating gender-based violence. All of this strengthens equality and the protection of human rights within the EU, thereby reinforcing its core values.
Mucormicosis en paciente con diabetes mellitus. Un reporte de caso de presentación rinocerebral
Authors: Minaya-Escolástico Luis O. , Panduro-Correa Vicky , Santiago-Ortiz Jhony K. , Estela-Chavez Carlos A. , Montero-Berrospi José , Arteaga-Livias Kovy
Published: February 2025

Objetivo. Presentar el caso de una mujer diabética con control deficiente, quien experimentó un rápido progreso de Mucormicosis rinocerebral con afectación cerebral. Caso clínico. Se presenta el caso de una paciente mujer de 36 años, con antecedente de diabetes mellitus tipo 2 diagnosticado hace dos años con tratamiento irregular con insulina que ingresa a la emergencia por trastorno del nivel de la conciencia con posterior desarrollo de lesión periorbitaria. Conclusiones. La mucormicosis es una enfermedad que siempre debe considerarse entre las complicaciones de pacientes con diabetes mellitus descompensada.
About TESOL in Context
Authors: TESOL in Context Journal Coordinator
Published: February 2025

This includes the ACTA's mission statement and objectives.
Ultrafast valleytronic logic operations
Authors: Cerullo Giulio , Gucci Francesco , Molinero Eduardo B. , Russo Mattia , San-Jose Pablo , Camargo Franco , Maiuri Margherita , Ivanov Misha (Mikhail) , Jiménez-Galán Álvaro , Silva Rui Emanuel Ferreira da , Conte Stefano Dal
Published: February 2025

Today’s information processing technology relies on electronics, with transistor switches reaching speeds as high as 800 GHz yet appearing to approach their intrinsic limits set by charge carrier transit times. The next disruptive step towards increasing the speed of information processing could come from driving the electronic response in solids with ultrafast controlled lightwaves. This lightwave electronics aims to use ultrashort pulses of light to switch electric currents and can potentially operate at nearly PHz rates. Lightwave valleytronics targets a new degree of freedom for information processing offered by two-dimensional materials: the valley pseudospin. Here we use a sequence of phase-locked few-optical-cycle visible pulses to excite and switch the valley pseudospin in a WS2 monolayer. By timing the carrier oscillations with sub-femtosecond precision, we show that a pair of pulses separated in time with linear orthogonal polarizations can induce a valley selective population. Adding a second pair of pulses, we perform logic operations such as valley de-excitation and re-excitation at room temperature at rates as high as ∼ 10 THz. Our experimental method also allows independent measurement of the valley polarization decay and the excitonic decoherence time. Our work opens a new route for ultrafast information processing with low-power few-optical-cycle light pulses available today.
A study on the manufacturing method of the ancient coins, Sangpyeong Tongbo in Korea
Authors: Choi Jung Eun
Published: February 2025

The coin cast during the Joseon Dynasty (14th -20th ) is called Sangpyeong Tongbo, and was first minted in the 17th century. In the 18th and 19th centuries, there were significant difficulties in the supply and demand of copper, which was reflected in the material characteristics of Sangpyeong Tongbo. This study analysed the components on 134 samples of Sangpyeong Tongbo coins from the 18th and 19th centuries, and three samples were selected to analyse the manufacturing methods and materials through internal impurity observations, composition, and microstructures. An optical microscope (OM), scanning electron microscope (SEM), and transmission electron microscope (TEM) were used to observe the microstructures, and X-ray fluorescence (XRF) analysis and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) were used for component analysis. The results revealed that 134 coins presented a very high lead content, and iron (Fe) was also detected in all coins. This outcome is thought to reduce the costs of coins. Inside the coins, impurities such as Cu2S, PbS, ZnS, FeAs, and Cu2Sb were detected, all of which seem to have originated from copper or lead ores. The poor quality of the Sangpyeong Tongbo, as documented in historical records describing the mixing of rubble stone to reduce coin quality, suggests that large amounts of lead were added to increase the weight, and that copper or lead ores were used without sufficient smelting.
Willingness of Chinese Clinical Researchers to Participate in International Clinical Research Training: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Chen Yun , Zhu Shengjie , Zhu Haoqing , Li Pei
Published: February 2025

Background
The reform of medical education in China, particularly the emphasis on lifelong learning, has transformed its structure and content, prioritizing the integration of clinical research with practice. However, limited access to research training resources poses challenges for clinical physicians. With the acceleration of globalization, enhancing physicians' global competencies has become increasingly important, highlighting the need for international clinical research training. This study explores Chinese physicians' willingness to participate in such training and identifies factors influencing their preferences to inform future program design.
Methods
An online questionnaire consisting of 24 questions was designed and distributed via the "NEJM Medical Frontiers" WeChat platform. The survey targeted clinical physicians and clinical researchers across China, aiming to assess their willingness to engage in international clinical research, along with their research background, training needs, and preferences. Convenience sampling was employed for participant recruitment. From January 11 to February 7, 2023, a total of 324 fully completed questionnaires were received, among which 312 were valid. Statistical analysis consisted primarily of descriptive analysis and chi-square tests.
Results
Between January 11 and February 7, 2023, 324 questionnaires were completed, of which 312 were valid. Most respondents were physicians (66.7%, n=208), with the remainder from universities, research institutes, or pharmaceutical-related companies (33.3%, n=104).Overall, 247 respondents (78.9%) expressed interest in international clinical research training. Those with a doctoral degree and first-author experience in SCI-indexed publications (68.4%, n=121, P=0.040), particularly those with 1–9 publications (72.2%, n=109, P=0.028), were significantly more likely to show interest.
These respondents also prioritized learning clinical research design methods (mean score: 7.28 vs. 6.52, P=0.009), especially randomized controlled trials (n=118, P=0.048).
Conclusion
This study revealed a high demand for international clinical research training among clinical researchers in China. Physicians with higher academic qualifications and prior SCI publication experience demonstrated a greater need to conduct higher-quality clinical research, making them more inclined to pursue international training. Their primary expectations for training focused on research design, particularly large-scale randomized controlled trials.
Disentangling Density and Geometry in Weather Regime Dimensions using Stochastic Twins
Authors: Platzer Paul , Chapron Bertrand , Messori Gabriele
Published: February 2025

Large-scale atmospheric variability can be summarised using a small number of recurring patterns called \say{weather regimes}. The properties of weather regimes have been widely investigated in the literature, including through the \say{local dimension}: an instantaneous geometrical estimate of the number of degrees of freedom, emanating from the multifractal formalism of dynamical systems. In atmospheric and ocean science, the local dimension has been interpreted as a measure of predictability. The different weather regimes display differing values of local dimension. It was also shown that the local dimension decreases when the atmosphere projects most strongly on a single weather regime, and increases during regime transitions. This was interpreted as confirming the physical grounding and dynamical footprint of weather regimes. However, the drivers of local dimension variations remain to be elucidated. In particular, recent work has shown that variations in local dimension originate not only from changes in multifractal geometric properties but also from changes in sampling density. In this work, we propose a methodology to isolate the density-based variations of local dimension for the large-scale atmospheric circulation in the North-Atlantic. We build \say{stochastic twins} of the atmosphere in the space of truncated empirical orthogonal functions, based on the Gaussian mixture model used to define weather regimes from ERA5-reanalysis 500 hPa geopotential height fields. These stochastic twins bear a similar sampling density as the atmosphere, but they are not multifractal and therefore they have a constant local geometry and a fixed number of degrees of freedom. Estimates of density-based variations of local dimension using stochastic twins allow to explain more than 50% of the total variations of local dimension, proving that a large fraction of local dimension variations is not related to changes in local geometry. The dimension estimated from stochastic twins also allows to reproduce the previously observed decrease of dimension near peak weather regime index, indicating that this universal behavior is a density-based phenomenon, and cannot be attributed to the multifractal nature of atmospheric circulation. However, the sampling density-based variations of the local dimension can still provide useful information on the properties of weather regimes. Additionally, we show that the full range of local dimension variations cannot be explained by density-based estimates alone, so that the remaining variability is likely due to changes in local geometry, and therefore in number of degrees of freedom. The methodology presented in this paper can be applied to any observed system whose sampling distribution can be approximated, and provides a new means to interpret local dimension estimates of real-world atmospheric or ocean data.
New avian protein sequences improve resolution of palaeoproteomic approaches to taxonomic identification & reveal widespread intraspecies variability
Authors: Codlin Maria , Yeomans Lisa , Stiller Josefin , Demarchi Beatrice
Published: February 2025

Biomolecules offer unparalleled insights into ancient life, from evolutionary pathways of organisms to the health and cultural practices of our ancestors. Biomineral-associated proteins, such as those found in bone, teeth, and eggshell, have become instrumental for studying ancient life, as they often endure post-mortem degradation far longer than DNA. Harnessing advancements in avian genomics, we annotate bone and eggshell protein sequences for 112 Anatidae (ducks, geese and swans) species, a biologically complex group of birds that are also central to many archaeological and ecological questions.

While palaeoproteomics (the study of ancient proteins by mass spectrometry) conventionally assumes that protein sequences vary only at the species level or above, our research demonstrates widespread evidence for single amino acid polymorphisms (SAPs) occurring within-species. Furthermore, we construct a phylogenetic tree from 13 proteins that aligns with mtDNA-based phylogenies, while revealing highly variable topologies for individual protein trees, underscoring the need for caution when using fragmented proteins for taxonomic identification and identifying evolutionary relationships.

However, with the comprehensive taxonomic coverage of Anatidae proteins, clear taxonomic patterns are evident in the proteins that enable reliable identification of bone and eggshell. We demonstrate this application to archaeological material from Teotihuacan, Mexico, and Shubayqa, Jordan. We highlight that extensive curated protein datasets accompanied by rigorous standards for assessing SAPs as taxonomic biomarkers are fundamental for correct taxonomic identification, setting new benchmarks for palaeoproteomic applications in archaeology, ecology, and evolutionary biology.
Utilizing a 20-plane systematic ultrasound protocol to detect fetal structural abnormalities during the first trimester
Authors: Wang Ronghua , Ling Wen , Lin Jianzhai , Wu Qiumei , LV Guorong , Liu Min , Chen Jinwen , Weng Zongjie
Published: February 2025

Objective
Most first-trimester prenatal ultrasound studies and reviews to date described observations of fetal anatomical structures; however, explicit standard sectional images or standardized ultrasound examination protocols are lacking. This study aimed to ascertain the efficacy of systematic ultrasound screening for fetal structural abnormalities.
Method
This retrospective analysis examined the results of first-trimester systematic ultrasound screenings performed of 30,336 fetuses between June 2019 to and 2022 and compared them with second- and third-trimester ultrasound screening, postpartum examination, and post-mortem examination results.
Results
Among the 30,336 fetuses, 4.1% (1,240) had structural abnormalities, of which 37.1% (460/1,240) were severe. Overall, 32.2% (399/1,240) of the structural abnormalities were detected via the systematic ultrasound screening, among which 79.7% (318/399) were severe. Of the 318 fetuses with severe abnormalities, 69.1% (220) featured nuchal translucency (NT); 21.1% (220/1,240) of the fetuses with structural abnormalities presented with increased NT versus 46.1% of those with severe structural abnormalities. Of the structural abnormalities detected by the systematic ultrasound screening, 54.6% featured increased NT. Systematic ultrasound screening had a sensitivity of 32.2% and specificity of 99.82% for the identification of fetal structural abnormalities. Areas by sensitivity level were as follows: ≥80%, anterior abdominal wall abnormalities, syndromes, edema/coelomic hydrops; 50–80%, nervous system structural abnormalities; 30–50%, other abnormalities and limb and skeleton structural abnormalities; and < 30%, congenital heart defects and facial, gastrointestinal tract, urogenital system, and thoracic and lung-related structural abnormalities. Combined screening exhibited higher sensitivity than systematic ultrasound screening alone (P < 0.001).
Conclusion
Systematic ultrasound screening detected most serious fetal structural abnormalities; however, its efficacy varied significantly among systems and diseases. Increased NT may be an important indicator of serious structural abnormalities. Furthermore, combined screening of fetal structural abnormalities has higher efficacy.
Profiling the cell-specific small non-coding RNA transcriptome of the human placenta
Authors: Telkar Nikita , Hui Desmond , Peñaherrera Maria S. , Yuan Victor , Martinez Victor D. , Stewart Greg L. , Beristain Alexander G. , Lam Wan L. , Robinson Wendy P.
Published: February 2025

The human placenta is the composite of multiple cell types, each which contributes uniquely to placental function. Small non-coding RNAs (sncRNAs) are regulators of gene expression and can be cell-specific. The sncRNA transcriptome of individual placental cell types has not yet been investigated due to difficulties in their procurement and isolation. Using a custom sequencing method, we explored the expression of seven sncRNA species (miRNA, piRNA, rRNA, scaRNA, snRNA, snoRNA, tRNA) from whole chorionic villi and four major sample-matched FACS-sorted cell type (cytotrophoblast, stromal, endothelial, Hofbauer) samples from 9 first trimester and 17 term placentas. After normalization for technical variables, samples clustered primarily by cell type lineage. No sncRNAs were uniquely expressed by cell type, however, mean expression differed by cell type for 115 sncRNAs. Known placentally-expressed sncRNAs showed differing expression by cell type and trimester. Expression of few sncRNAs varied by sex. Lastly, sample-matched sncRNA expression and DNA methylation correlation was not significant, although high correlation (> R2 ± 0.6) was observed for some sncRNA-CpG pairs. This study represents the first exploration of the sncRNA transcriptome of bulk placental villi and placental cell types, informing about the expression and regulatory patterns underlying human placental development.
Small-Medium Enterprises Owners’ Preference for E-Wallet Payment in Transactions
Authors: Vales Josh Patrick R. , Delda Janika Mikyla S. , Cua Alwyn Gabriel Y. , Balagtas Colin D. , Capisin Jaztin Rey V. , Nares John Albert M.
Published: February 2025

This study investigated the preference of e-wallets among SME owners in the downtown area of Davao City, focusing on the relationship between demographic factors and e-wallet preferences. Despite the growing adoption of e-wallets for business transactions, limited research has examined the demographic influences on their use. The study employed a descriptive-comparative research design, surveying 100 SME owners using a 27-item questionnaire. The findings reveal that middle-aged SME owners (ages 40–49) in the retail sector with 3–5 years of business experience are likelier to adopt e-wallets, prioritizing security and performance. Younger SME owners (ages 18–29) also exhibited significant differences in e-wallet use, indicating generational variations in technology adoption. Other demographic factors, including income, industry, and operations, did not show considerable influence. The study concludes that age is a key factor in e-wallet adoption and recommends targeted strategies by e-wallet providers to promote broader usage and enhance trust in digital payment systems.
Comparison of adverse events between intensity-modulated radiation therapy and Tomotherapy for early-stage breast cancer: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Xia Yan , Yang Yan-Cheng , Ren Hang-Qi , Wang Yan-Zun , Li Qing-Feng , Yu Ya-Yuan , Yang Guang-Ran , Li Yang-ke , Jin Kai-Cheng , Luo Qi-Fa , Bian Zhi-Heng , Zeng Tian , Li Jun-Qing
Published: February 2025

Introduction: Early-stage breast cancer treated with adjuvant radiotherapy with two different techniques, Tomotherapy (TOMO) and intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) and their acute adverse events in terms of skin toxicity, localized edema, sore throat, tracheal mucositis, nausea, mucositis oral, esophagitis and pneumonitis outcomes are compared. Material/methods: A retrospective cohort study was conducted on adverse events comparing IMRT and TOMO in early-stage breast cancer, we reviewed the data of female patients who received lumpectomy or mastectomy for breast cancer in the Oncology Department of the First Affiliated Hospital, Army Medical University from September 2021 to February 2024. A total of 315 female patients were enrolled in this study, including 130 in the TOMO group and 185 in the IMRT group. In this study, the adverse events of the two groups of patients were compared and analyzed. Results: The median age of this retrospective cohort was 47 years (range, 20–74 years). The length of follow-up was 3 months. 185 patients (59%) received IMRT and 130 patients (41%) underwent TOMO. No significant difference was observed in terms of menopausal status, laterality, pathology, estrogen receptor status, progesterone receptor status, triple negative, clinical T stage, clinical N stage or Surgical methods. Negative HER-2 over-expression was found in 38% and 51% of TOMO and IMRT group respectively (P = 0.053).With regard to the the degree of tumor differentiation,the Poor-Moderate differentiation was 69% in TOMO group while 81% in IMRT group(P = 0.052).There was 66% and 55% of TOMO and IMRT group respectively receiving Hormone therapy(p = 0.5). But there is no statistical differences in demographic and tumor characteristics between TOMO group and IMRT group. The comparison adverse events between TOMO and IMRT shown that there were no significant differences in localized edema, sore throat, tracheal mucositis, nausea, mucositis oral, esophagitis between the TOMO and the IMRT groups. Compared these two groups, the TOMO group had a higher proportion of 3–4 grade skin toxicity [16.2% (TOMO) versus 7.6% (IMRT), P = 0.017]. The pneumonitis in the TOMO group was lower than the IMRT group [0.0% (TOMO) versus 4.3% (IMRT), P = 0.016]. Conclusions: Compared to IMRT, TOMO decreases the incidence of radiation Pneumonitis but fail to improve acute skin toxicity. Base on our research, TOMO may contribute to higher odds for acute skin toxicity, which should be payed more attention by clinicians.
Health-Related Quality of Life and Utility Scores of Colorectal Cancer Patients in Shanghai
Authors: Peng Yuxin , Suo Yue , Zhu Zhixu , Ye Jinghong , Wei Yan
Published: February 2025

BACKGROUND Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most common cancer and the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths globally. CRC and its treatment heavily impact patients' physical and mental health, often causing physical limitations, anxiety, and depression. Assessing health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in CRC patients is increasingly recognized as important, but more research is needed on influencing factors. OBJECTIVE To evaluate the quality of life of colorectal cancer (CRC) patients, and analyze other possible influencing factors to provide reference suggestions for improving the health-related quality of life of colorectal cancer patients. METHODS This study included patients diagnosed with CRC from secondary and tertiary hospitals in Hongkou district, Shanghai, China from 2020 to 2022. The HRQoL and utility scores of these patients were measured using the five-level EQ-5D (EQ-5D-5L). The EQ-5D-5L utility scores were derived from the Chinese EQ-5D-5L Value Set. The relationships between HRQoL and the socio-demographic and clinical characteristics of patients were further analyzed using Tobit regression. RESULTS Statistical analysis showed that the overall mean health utility scores of colorectal cancer patients were between 0.853 (SD = 0.214). Problems in the pain/discomfort dimension were reported by 50.68%, followed by problems in the anxiety/depression (47.34%), mobility (39.06%), self-care (33.25%) and usual activities (32.63%) dimensions. Besides, the Kruskal Wallis test showed that educational level, average annual household income, TNM stage, whether hospitalization or not, and payment burden significantly impacted the HRQoL of CRC patients. Specifically, higher education level, higher average annual household income, earlier TNM stage, hospitalization, and less payment burden corresponded to higher HRQoL. CONCLUSION In CRC patients, different annual average household income, TNM cancer stage, hospitalization status, and payment burden can significantly diminish HRQoL. Therefore, healthcare institutions should comprehensively consider various factors affecting the HRQoL and further improve the care of cancer patients in order to improve the physical function and psychological flexibility of patients and improve the HRQoL of patients.
Plasticity versus phylogenetic restrictions in flowering time of coexisting species in experimental annual plant assemblages
Authors: Chaves Rocío , Montesinos-Navarro Alicia , Ferrandis Pablo , Luzuriaga Arantzazu L.
Published: February 2025

Flowering timing is a critical event in the lifetime of angiosperms, being particularly sensitive to environmental conditions, although the range of flowering response should be ultimately constrained by evolutionary history. We hypothesized that a) if phylogenetic constraints prevail over phenotypic plasticity in the expression of flowering phenology, flowering peaks would be more segregated in diverse assemblages than in assemblages composed of close relatives; b) conversely, if flowering time is mainly a plastic trait, drought would induce significant flowering overlap, irrespective of the phylogenetic diversity in the assemblage. We designed assemblages with annual plants of semiarid systems of Spain, considering two contrasted levels of phylogenetic diversity (PD) and two water availability treatments in a common garden experiment, where we analysed the flowering segregation among species. High PD assemblages resulted in greater flowering overlap, while assemblages composed of close relatives segregated more their flowering peaks. Water stress triggered flowering synchronization both in neighborhoods with high and low phylogenetic diversity. Our findings corroborate that in the very diverse Iberian gypsophilous annual plant communities, it is phenotypic plasticity in response to water availability, rather than phylogenetic constraints what modulates species segregation of flowering phenology, potentially affecting species coexistence.
Growth over Climate? Aviation and the Paris Agreement
Authors: Suomalainen Emilia
Published: February 2025

Aviation is one of the most challenging sectors in terms of its climate impact. While technologies for decarbonising the sector are being developed, they remain either technologically immature, suitable for only a limited range of cases, and/or unavailable on larger scale, at least in the decade to come. How are the limitations of technological solutions to reducing aviation emissions recognised in key transport strategy documents? In this work, this question is examined empirically for both the European Union and Finland by analysing EU’s Sustainable and Smart Mobility Strategy and Finland’s Government resolution on reducing greenhouse gas emissions from aviation. The findings indicate that these strategies are strongly focused on technological solutions to the detriment of demand management, thus inverting the avoid–shift–improve hierarchy of emission reduction. Mode shift and demand reduction are only explored covertly. Though the policy documents refer to the Paris Agreement, the creation of emission reduction targets covering international aviation is not proposed while at least the Finnish document acknowledges the shortcomings of current schemes (ICAO’s CORSIA). The documents also fail to underline that the proposed technological solutions are unlikely to reduce aviation emissions significantly in the medium term (by the 2030s). These shortcomings are however recognised in other more technical reports (notably the European Aviation Environmental Reports), though the implications in terms of respecting the Paris Agreement are not spelled out. This means the climate impact of aviation is likely to continue unabated, which only increases the pressure to reduce emissions in other sectors.