bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Abstracts of the 2024 Canadian Association of Medical Oncologists Annual Scientific Meeting
Authors: Campbell Alexi , Gill Sharlene , Hao Desirée , Khanna Suneil , Powell Erin , Rushton Moira , Soleimani Maryam , Welch Stephen
Published: February 2025

On behalf of the Canadian Association of Medical Oncologists, we are pleased to present the abstracts of the 2024 Annual Scientific Meeting. The CAMO Annual Scientific Meeting (ASM) took place from 24–26 October 2024 in an in-person event in Ottawa, ON. Twenty-four (24) abstracts were selected for presentation as oral presentations and poster presentations. Awards for the top three (3) abstracts were presented during the ASM; they have been marked as “Award Recipient”. We congratulate all presenters on their research work and contribution.
SARS-CoV-2 and Coronaviruses: Understanding Transmission, Impact, and Strategies for Prevention and Treatment
Authors: Tabatabaei Seyede Nafise , Keykhaee Zahra , Nooraei Saghi , Ayati Mohammad Amin , Behzadmand Mohammad , Azimi Saba , Eskati Fatemeh , Ahmadian Gholamreza
Published: February 2025

COVID-19, first identified in December 2019 in Wuhan, China, is caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, a pathogen that primarily targets the respiratory system and can lead to severe conditions such as acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). Among the seven coronaviruses known to infect humans, three—SARS-CoV, MERS-CoV, and SARS-CoV-2—are associated with severe illness and significant morbidity. SARS-CoV-2 is an enveloped, single-stranded RNA virus that utilizes the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptor for cellular entry. The genetic sequence of SARS-CoV-2 is highly mutable, leading to the emergence of variants that alter disease pathology and transmission dynamics. The World Health Organization (WHO) has classified these mutations into variants of concern (VOCs), variants of interest (VOIs), and variants under monitoring (VUMs). This review provides an in-depth analysis of both historical and emerging SARS-CoV-2 variants, summarizes recent advancements in diagnostic methods for SARS-CoV-2 detection, and discusses current therapeutic strategies for COVID-19, with a particular focus on virus-like particle (VLP) vaccines developed in recent years. Additionally, we highlight ongoing therapeutic approaches and their implications for managing COVID-19.
Radiomic Analysis of Magnetic Resonance Imaging for Breast Cancer with TP53 Mutation: A Single Center Study
Authors: Park Jung Ho , Kwon Lyo Min , Lee Hong Kyu , Koo Taeryool , Suh Yong Joon , Kwon Mi Jung , Kim Ho Young
Published: February 2025

Background: Radiomics is a non-invasive and cost-effective method for predicting the biological characteristics of tumors. In this study, we explored the association between radiomic features derived from magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and genetic alterations in patients with breast cancer. Methods: We reviewed electronic medical records of patients with breast cancer patients with available targeted next-generation sequencing data available between August 2018 and May 2021. Substraction imaging of T1-weighted sequences was utilized. The tumor area on MRI was segmented semi-automatically, based on a seeded region growing algorithm. Radiomic features were extracted using the open-source software 3D slicer (version 5.6.1) with PyRadiomics extension. The association between genetic alterations and radiomic features was examined. Results: In total, 166 patients were included in this study. Among the 50 panel genes analyzed, only TP53 mutations were significantly associated with radiomic features. Compared with TP53 wild-type tumors, TP53 mutations were associated with larger tumor size, advanced stage, negative hormonal receptor status, and HER2 positivity. Tumors with TP53 mutations exhibited higher values for Gray Level Non-Uniformity, Dependence Non-Uniformity, and Run Length Non-Uniformity, and lower values for Sphericity, Low Gray Level Emphasis, and Small Dependence Low Gray Level emphasis compared to TP53 wild-type tumors. Six radiomic features were selected to develop a composite radiomics score. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis showed an area under the curve of 0.786 (95% confidence interval, 0.719–0.854; p < 0.001). Conclusions: TP53 mutations in breast cancer can be predicted using MRI-derived radiomic analysis. Further research is needed to assess whether radiomics can help guide treatment decisions in clinical practice.
Real-Life Pre-Operative Nodal Staging Accuracy in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer and Its Relationship with Survival
Authors: Alkarn Ahmed , Stapleton Liam J. , Eleftheriou Dimitra , Stewart Laura , Chalmers George W. , Hamed Ahmad , Hussein Khaled , Blyth Kevin G. , van der Horst Joris C. , Maclay John D.
Published: February 2025

Background/Objectives: The precise staging of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) determines its initial treatment and provides more accurate prognostic information for patients. The aim of this cohort study was to determine pre- and post-operative mediastinal nodal staging agreement and its effect on 2-year survival. Methods: A retrospective multi-centre cohort study was performed, using prospectively collected and pre-defined data from weekly lung cancer multidisciplinary team (MDT) meetings in 11 hospitals. Consecutive patients who underwent surgical resection of NSCLC between 2015 and 2017 were eligible. Pre-operative under-staging was defined as a lower pre-operative than post-operative nodal stage, and pre-operative over-staging as a higher pre-operative than post-operative nodal stage. Disparities between pre-operative nodal staging established at MDT and post-surgical nodal staging were determined and associations with subsequent lung cancer-specific 2-year mortality were identified using univariate and multivariate regression. Results: A total of 973 patients fulfilled the eligibility criteria. Concordant pre- and post-operative nodal staging was observed in 783/973 (80%), 123/973 (13%) were under-staged pre-operatively and 67/973 (7%) were over-staged. In 173 patients with clinical N1 or N2 disease (in whom invasive mediastinal staging was indicated), staging EBUS was performed in 55/173 (32%). In these patients, younger age and use of staging EBUS were independent predictors of concordant pre- and post-operative staging. In all patients, pre-operative under-staging was independently associated with increased lung cancer-specific 2-year mortality. There was no increased mortality associated with pre-operative nodal over-staging. Conclusions: Invasive mediastinal staging with EBUS was independently associated with more accurate pre-operative staging. Pre-operative nodal under-staging was associated with increased lung cancer-specific mortality. Nodal staging accuracy in potentially curable NSCLC is of fundamental importance to ensure patients receive the correct first-line treatment and to improve survival.
From Play to Progress: Student Learning of Social Skills with a Solution-Focused Approach
Authors: Niu Shuanghong Jenny , Niemi Hannele , Yang Jing , Wang Jun , Wang Hao , Li Jiayi , Liu Feng
Published: February 2025

Social skills are essential for fostering healthy relationships and promoting positive social interactions. Supporting students’ development of these skills has become increasingly important in educational contexts and is emphasized within many countries’ national core curricula. However, teachers often lack pedagogical methods for nurturing such skills. This study addresses this gap by investigating how the “Curious About Others” play based on solution-focused and playful pedagogical approaches can support students’ learning of social skills. In the study, we used a qualitative research method involving the qualitative data collected from students’ written documents, learning reflections, discussion recordings, observations, and interviews with students and teachers. The material was analyzed using content analysis. Results indicate that the intervention improved students’ social skills and their abilities in communication, cooperation, empathy, and self-control. These findings highlight the benefits of integrating solution-focused and playful approaches into educational practices. The study underscores the importance of incorporating such interventions into curricula to foster social skills. Practical implications for educators include promoting playful learning activities and strength-based solution-focused approaches to support social–emotional development and create a positive learning environment.
Research on Coordinated Control of Power Distribution in Hydrogen-Containing Energy Storage Microgrids
Authors: Guo Yingjun , Liu Jiaxin , Xie Pu , Qin Gang , Zhang Qingqing , Sun Hexu
Published: February 2025

The integration of renewable energy sources, such as wind and solar power, at high proportions has become an inevitable trend in the development of power systems under the new power system framework. The construction of a microgrid system incorporating hydrogen energy storage and battery energy storage can leverage the complementary advantages of long-term and short-term hybrid storage, achieving power and energy balance across multiple time scales in the power system. To prevent frequent start-stop cycles of hydrogen storage devices and lithium battery storage under overcharge and overdischarge conditions, a coordinated control strategy for power distribution in a microgrid with hydrogen storage is proposed. First, a fuzzy control algorithm is used for power distribution between hydrogen storage and lithium battery storage. Then, the hydrogen storage tank’s state of health (SOH) and the lithium battery’s state of charge (SOC) are compared, with the goal of selecting a multi-stack fuel cell system operating at its optimal efficiency point, where each fuel cell stack outputs 10 kW. This further ensures that the SOC and SOH remain within reasonable ranges. Finally, simulations are conducted in MATLAB/Simulink R2018b to verify that the proposed strategy maintains stability in the DC bus and alleviates issues of overcharge and overdischarge, ensuring that both the system’s SOC and SOH remain within a reasonable range, thereby enhancing equipment lifespan and system stability.
Anthropology of Food: History, Topics, and Trajectories to Understand a Discipline
Authors: Parrish Sabine , Begueria Arantza , Bevan Imogen , Choi Tyffany , Kelly Therese M. , Mejia López Juan , Pozzi Sara , Reid Memory , Thornton Jessica Leigh , Fontefrancesco Michele Filippo
Published: February 2025

The anthropology of food is a sub-field of cultural anthropology interested in studying food and foodways. This article provides a concise overview of the anthropology of food, tracing its development from the early twentieth century to contemporary debates and emerging research trajectories. Drawing on foundational work by figures such as Boas and Malinowski, it shows how early anthropologists approached food as integral to understanding social organization, kinship, and cultural meaning. As the field evolved, structuralist, materialist, feminist, and political-economic perspectives broadened its scope, highlighting the symbolic significance of cuisine, the interplay between environment and subsistence, and the pivotal role of gender and class in shaping food practices. In recent decades, the anthropology of food has engaged intensively with globalization, investigating how transnational flows reshape culinary identities, local economies, and cultural heritage, as well as other significant topics. At the same time, emerging themes—such as multispecies perspectives, sensory studies, and the application of innovative methodologies—offer new lenses for understanding how food mediates relationships between humans, non-human beings, and environments. By examining case studies spanning regions from Africa and Asia to Europe and the Americas, this article illustrates how contemporary anthropologists use food as a prism to investigate cultural identity, social change, ethical relations, and the complex entanglements of local and global food systems.
Effect of Lattice Structures in the Stress–Strain State for an Impeller Turbine
Authors: Evdokimov Dmitry , Sangines Lezama Fidel Agustin , Filinov Evgeny , Chertykovtsev Pavel
Published: February 2025

The stress level of a rotating component is of vital importance in order to ensure its safe operation. The primary source of stress for this type of component is the induced centrifugal stress, which depends on the material, rotational speed, and the distribution of the mass. The reduction of stress has been a topic of study for some time; however, the advent of additive technologies has prompted a new wave of research into the design and manufacture of centrifugal impellers for gas turbine engines, incorporating internal lattice structures (LSs). These structures offer benefits in terms of material savings and load reduction by decreasing the centrifugal force. The present work analyzes the stress–strain state of a turbine centrifugal impeller for six different designs, distinguished by the presence or absence of LSs of various geometries, achievable only through additive technologies. The analysis was conducted on a turbine impeller, which serves as an example of a promising small-scale gas turbine engine (SSGTE). The effectiveness of LSs was assessed through their unloading effect; furthermore, an approach to identify their optimal location within the impeller was demonstrated.
Fractal Metrics and Connectivity Analysis for Forest and Deforestation Fragmentation Dynamics
Authors: Alage Isiaka Lukman , Tan Yumin , Akande Ahmed Wasiu , Olugbenga Hamed Jimoh , Suprijanto Agus , Lodhi Muhammad Kamran
Published: February 2025

Forests are critical ecosystems that regulate climate, preserve biodiversity, and support human livelihoods by providing essential resources. However, they are increasingly vulnerable due to the growing impacts of deforestation and habitat fragmentation, which endanger their value and long-term sustainability. Assessing forest and deforestation fragmentation is vital for promoting sustainable logging, guiding ecosystem restoration, and biodiversity conservation. This study introduces an advanced approach that integrates the Local Connected Fractal Dimension (LCFD) with near real-time (NRT) land use and land cover (LULC) data from the Dynamic World dataset (2017–2024) to enhance deforestation monitoring and landscape analysis. By leveraging high-frequency, high-resolution satellite imagery and advanced imaging techniques, this method employs two fractal indices, namely the Fractal Fragmentation Index (FFI) and the Fractal Fragmentation and Disorder Index (FFDI), to analyze spatiotemporal changes in the forest landscape and enhance deforestation monitoring, providing a dynamic, quantitative method for assessing forest fragmentation and connectivity in real time. LCFD provides a refined assessment of spatial complexity, localized connectivity, and self-similarity in fragmented landscapes, improving the understanding of deforestation dynamics. Applied to Nigeria’s Okomu Forest, the analysis revealed significant landscape transformations, with peak fragmentation observed in 2018 and substantial recovery in 2019. FFI and FFDI metrics indicated heightened disturbances in 2018, with FFDI increasing by 75.2% in non-deforested areas and 61.1% in deforested areas before experiencing rapid declines in 2019 (82.6% and 87%, respectively), suggesting improved landscape connectivity. Despite minor fluctuations, cumulative deforestation trends showed a 160.5% rise in FFDI from 2017 to 2024, reflecting long-term stabilization. LCFD patterns highlighted persistent variability, with non-deforested areas recovering 12% connectivity by 2024 after a 38% reduction in 2019. These findings reveal the complex interplay between deforestation and landscape recovery, emphasizing the need for targeted conservation strategies to enhance ecological resilience and connectivity. Fractal indices offer significant potential to generate valuable insights across multiple spatial scales, thereby informing strategies for biodiversity preservation and adaptive landscape management.
Effect of Short-Term Nitrogen Addition on N and P Stoichiometry of Herbaceous Leaves and Roots in the Understory of Larix principis-rupprechtii Plantation in Northern China
Authors: Wu Shujing , Zhang Tingting , Li Zuhong , Liu Xiao , Liu Zehua , Lv Chunxi , Lu Jinping , Ma Jiaojiao , Xu Zhongqi , Jia Yanlong
Published: February 2025

Nitrogen (N) deposition in China remains high. However, the response of species-level plant elemental stoichiometry to N deposition is not comprehensive. This study aimed to investigate the N and phosphorus (P) stoichiometric response of understory herbaceous plants to N deposition at the species level. An addition experiment in Larix principis-rupprechtii plantation was conducted with multiple-gradient N addition (0, 5, 10, 20, 40, 80, and 160 kg N ha−1 yr−1). The N and P stoichiometry of the leaves and roots of nine representative herbaceous plants was determined. N addition significantly increased N concentration and N/P ratio in herbaceous plants. The changes in P concentration varied by species, with most plants reaching their highest P concentration at lower N addition levels. The availability of soil nutrients, such as nitrate nitrogen, driven by N addition, was the primary factor influencing N and P concentrations and the N/P ratio in plant leaves and roots. The response patterns of plants to N addition varied by species and organs, indicating that we should pay more attention to the differential response of different plants to nitrogen deposition.
Effects of Compound Lactic Acid Bacteria Additives on the Quality of Oat and Common Vetch Silage in the Northwest Sichuan Plateau
Authors: Ma Tianli , Xin Yafen , Chen Xuesong , Wen Xingjin , Wang Fei , Liu Hongyu , Zhu Lanxi , Li Xiaomei , You Minghong , Yan Yanhong
Published: February 2025

The objective of this experiment was to determine whether compound microbial inoculants could enhance the fermentation of oat and common vetch silage that were stored in the Northwest Sichuan Plateau for 60 days under extremely low temperatures. Oat and common vetch harvested from single and mixed artificially planted grassland of oat and common vetch were chopped into 2–3 cm (oat, S1; common vetch, S2; oat–common vetch = 2:1, S3), then sterile water (T1), Zhuang Lemei IV silage additive (T2), and Fu Zhengxing silage additive (T3) were added to the feed and ensiled at the local outdoor environment for 60 days. Data were analyzed as a 3 × 3 factorial arrangement of treatments with the main effects of the materials, additives, and their interaction. Interactions between the materials and additives significantly affected the fermentation quality and the content of DM, WSC, and NDF and the number of yeasts in forages. Treatments with S3 have significantly higher contents of lactic acid, acetic acid, and lactic acid bacteria in the feed than those in the S1 and S2 treatments, while the contents of AN/TN and propionic acid were significantly lower compared with the S1 and S2 treatments (p < 0.05). Concentrations of lactic acid, acetic acid, and propionic acid were significantly increased and the content of neutral detergent fiber in the T2-treated silage decreased compared with the T1 treatment (p < 0.05). The T3 treatment significantly reduced the number of yeasts in the silage but the compound lactic acid bacteria additive treatment (T1, T2) significantly decreased the butyric acid content and pH of the feed and increased the acid detergent fiber content and the number of lactic acid bacteria in the feed compared with the T1 treatment. Among them, the butyric acid content of the T3 treatment decreased by 63.64–86.05%, while that of the T2 treatment decreased by 36.36–83.33% (p < 0.05). The comprehensive analysis of the membership function revealed that the silage quality was the best after the S3T2 treatment, so the implementation of the S3T2 combination in the Northwest Sichuan Plateau can provide guarantees for the production of local high-quality forage grass and alleviate the shortage of forage grass.
Numerical Evaluation of the IMERSPEC Methodology and Spalart–Allmaras Turbulence Model in Fully Developed Channel Flow Simulations
Authors: Albuquerque Laura Augusta Vasconcelos de , Villela Mariana Fernandes dos Santos , Mariano Felipe Pamplona
Published: February 2025

This study evaluates the performance of the IMERSPEC methodology combined with the Spalart–Allmaras turbulence model for simulating fully developed turbulent flows in a plane channel. Turbulent flows, known for their complexity, require numerical methods that balance computational efficiency with accuracy. The IMERSPEC approach, recognized for its spectral accuracy and efficiency, was applied alongside the Spalart–Allmaras model, valued for its simplicity and robustness in representing turbulence, particularly in scenarios where flow over solid surfaces is critical. Simulations were conducted at Reynolds numbers (Reτ) of 180, 550, and 1000, with results validated against direct numerical simulation (DNS) data. The study investigated various grid resolutions, revealing that finer meshes substantially enhance accuracy by mitigating velocity profile oscillations and reducing the L2 error norm. Key findings highlight the method’s ability to accurately replicate turbulent flow characteristics, including velocity distributions and shear stress profiles, while maintaining a favorable computational cost-to-accuracy ratio. This work provides valuable insights into turbulence modeling, demonstrating the potential of the IMERSPEC methodology for practical engineering applications.
Unveiling the Microbial Signatures of Arabica Coffee Cherries: Insights into Ripeness Specific Diversity, Functional Traits, and Implications for Quality and Safety
Authors: Tenea Gabriela N. , Cifuentes Victor , Reyes Pamela , Cevallos-Vallejos Marcelo
Published: February 2025

Arabica coffee, one of the most valuable crop commodities, harbors diverse microbial communities with unique genetic and functional traits that influence bean safety and final coffee quality. In Ecuador, coffee production faces challenges due to the spread of pathogenic organisms across cultivars, leading to reduced yields and compromised quality. This study employed a shotgun metagenomic approach to characterize the indigenous microbial diversity present in the cell biomass of fermented coffee cherries from three Coffea arabica varieties: Typica (Group A), Yellow Caturra (Group B), and Red Caturra (Group C), originating from the Intag Valley in northern Ecuador, at two ripe stages: green (immature fruits) and ripe (red/yellow mature fruits). Gene prediction and functional annotation were performed using multiple databases, including EggNOG, COG, KEGG, CAZy, CARD, and BacMet, to explore the potential impact of microbial communities on bean quality and safety. Metagenomic sequencing generated over 416 million high-quality reads, averaging 66 million clean reads per sample and yielding a total of 47 Gbps of data. Analysis revealed distinct differences in species abundance based on the coffee variety and ripening stage. A total of 799,658 protein-coding sequences (CDSs) were predicted, of which 205,937 genes were annotated with EggNOG, 181,723 with COG, 155,220 with KEGG, and 10,473 with CAZy. Additionally, 432 antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) were identified using CARD, and 8974 biocide and metal resistance genes (BMRGs) were annotated with BacMet. Immature cherries exhibited enriched pathways associated with resistance to antibiotics such as fluoroquinolones, penams, rifamycin, macrolides, carbapenems, and cephalosporins. The abundance of these pathways varied with the ripening stage and variety. Furthermore, green cherries showed a significant increase in BMRGs associated with resistance to substances including hydrochloric acid, copper, nickel, hydrogen peroxide, arsenic, and zinc. Among mature cherries, Typica and Red Caturra shared similar profiles, while Yellow Caturra displayed a divergent microbial and functional profile. These study findings emphasize the interplay between microbial diversity, ripening stages, and coffee varieties, providing a foundation for innovative approaches to enhance coffee quality through microbiome management.
Sustainable Valorization of Coffee Silverskin Waste: Pressurized Liquid Extraction of Bioactive Compounds
Authors: Koskinakis Sokratis E. , Stergiopoulos Chrysanthos , Vasileiou Christoforos , Krokida Magdalini
Published: February 2025

Coffee silverskin, a by-product of the coffee roasting industry, offers significant potential for valorization due to its bioactive compound content. This study optimized the Pressurized Liquid Extraction (PLE) process for recovering phenolic compounds and caffeine from coffee silverskin. A factorial design identified the temperature and ethanol concentration as the key parameters influencing extraction yield, antioxidant capacity (TEAC), total phenolic content (TPC) and caffeine and phenolic acid contents. These factors were further optimized using a central composite design (CCD) and Response Surface Methodology (RSM). The optimal extraction conditions—140 °C and 55% ethanol—achieved a balanced enhancement across all responses: 12.1% extraction yield, 65.3 mg TE/g dry extract for antioxidant capacity, 88.4 mg GAE/g dry extract for total phenolic content, 56.7 mg caffeine/g dry extract, and 10.6 mg chlorogenic acid equivalents/g dry extract for phenolic acid content. Compared to conventional methods, the optimized PLE demonstrated superior bioactive compound recovery while employing environmentally friendly solvents. This approach underscores PLE’s potential as a sustainable technology for valorizing agro-industrial by-products, contributing to both waste reduction and the development of antioxidant-rich products.
Incidence and 12-Month Outcomes of Fracture Types Associated with Abuse in Children Under Three Years Old Presenting to an Emergency Department
Authors: Lee Amy , Phillips Lara , Tran Viet
Published: February 2025

Background: Child physical abuse is a significant contributor to overall pediatric mortality and morbidity and is associated with both short- and long-term effects on the physical, social and mental wellbeing of the child involved. Fractures are the second most common physical injury in children suffering from physical abuse and are present in up to 55% of cases of physically abused children. Specific fracture patterns may prompt suspicion for abuse, although none are specific. We aim to identify the incidence of fracture types associated with abuse in children under three years old presenting to the ED. Methods: This study was a retrospective descriptive study. The inclusion criteria consisted of (a) children less than three years of age, (b) presenting to the ED, (c) between 1 January 2020, and 31 December 2022, inclusive and (d) with a diagnosis consistent with a fracture type associated with abuse. Results: There were 214 patients diagnosed with fractures who were under 3 years of age. Of these, twenty-one patients fit the criteria for fracture suspcious for non-accidental injury (a rate of one per month if following a normal distribution). The diagnosis of NAI was considered in eight (38%) patients. NAI was not considered in 13 (62%) patients. A medical record review of these patients up to 12 months after initial ED presentation showed that five did not re-present to the ED, one was referred to CSS from outpatients and two re-presented within this period with minor head injuries. Conclusions: Presentations of fractures concerning NAI are rare but important not to miss. Automated systems and targeted education and action are critical to ensure that concerns for NAI are managed appropriately.
Differential Games of Cournot Oligopoly with Consideration of Pollution, Network Structure, and Continuous Updating
Authors: Ougolnitsky Guennady , Korolev Alexey
Published: February 2025

We have built and investigated analytically and numerically a differential game model of Cournot oligopoly with consideration of pollution, network structure, and continuous updating. Up to this time, games with network structure and continuous updating were considered separately. We analyzed time consistency for a cooperative solution of the game. For a specific example, we built a non-empty subgame perfect subcore. We considered stochastic versions of the proposed model and received results similar to the deterministic case.
Associations Between Parental Alexithymia and Family Dynamics in Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Kosić Radoslav , Petrić Daniela , Vlašić-Cicvarić Inge , Kosec Tanja
Published: February 2025

Background/Objectives: Alexithymia is a condition marked by difficulties in identifying and expressing emotions, rooted in both physiological and behavioral mechanisms. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between parental alexithymia and family functioning in families of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) compared to families of typically developing children (TD). Methods: The study sample included parents of children with ASD (n = 120) and a control group of parents of typically developing children (n = 120). A comprehensive set of self-report instruments was used to evaluate alexithymia levels, parental stress, family experience, resilience, cognitive emotion regulation, social support, and family flexibility and cohesion. Results: The analysis revealed that parental alexithymia in families of children with ASD was directly associated with lower levels of family flexibility and cohesion, independent of increased stress or reduced family resilience. Furthermore, the findings indicate that alexithymia in parents is directly linked to reduced family cohesion in ASD families. Conclusions: These results highlight the significant role of parental alexithymia in shaping family dynamics and underscore the necessity for targeted interventions that emphasize emotional skill-building, adaptive coping mechanisms, and resilience to stressful events. This research enhances the understanding of parental alexithymia’s effect on family functioning in the context of ASD.
Estimation of Cardiovascular Risk Using SCORE2, REGICOR and Vascular Age Scales in Spanish Healthcare Workers: A Retrospective Longitudinal Study
Authors: Marcos Pedro Javier Tárraga , López Pedro Juan Tárraga , López-González Ángel Arturo , Rifá Emilio Martínez-Almoyna , Oliveira Hernán Paublini , Sánchez Cristina Martorell , Ramírez-Manent José Ignacio
Published: February 2025

Background/Objectives: Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are one of the major public health concerns worldwide due to their high morbidity and mortality rates. This situation has necessitated the development of tools to assess cardiovascular risk (CVR) in order to prevent the onset of CVD. The aim of this study is to assess how sociodemographic variables and health habits are associated with the values of CVR scales, such as REGICOR, SCORE2, and vascular age. Methodology: This is a descriptive and cross-sectional study involving 44,939 Spanish healthcare workers, where the association between age, sex, type of work, smoking, physical activity, and Mediterranean diet with CVR scales such as REGICOR, SCORE2, and vascular age was evaluated. Results: All the variables analyzed showed an association with the occurrence of moderate-high values in all three CVR scales. Age was the variable that showed the highest odds ratio values: 13.446 (95% CI 11.16–14.77) for REGICOR, 13.90 (95% CI 12.01–15.81) for vascular age, and 14.12 (95% CI 12.01–16.23) for SCORE2. Conclusions: The profile of a healthcare worker with the highest risk of presenting moderate-high values on all three CVR scales would be a male over 60 years old, a nursing assistant or orderly, a smoker, sedentary, and with low adherence to the Mediterranean diet.
London Chest Activity of Daily Living: Reliability and Validity of the European Portuguese Version in Heart Failure Patients
Authors: Oliveira Isabel J. , Delgado Bruno M. , Mota Cecília , Gomes Inês , Ferreira Pedro Lopes
Published: February 2025

Background/Objectives: The common heart failure (HF) symptoms—dyspnea, fatigue, and edema—often prompt emergency visits. Dyspnea notably affects activities of daily living (ADLs), making its assessment crucial for evaluating therapeutic success. This study assesses the reliability and validity of the European Portuguese version of the London Chest Activity of Daily Living (LCADL) scale, originally validated in 2010, to evaluate ADL limitations in patients with HF. Methods: Following international guidelines for translation and cultural adaptation, 46 patients with HF from two cardiology departments were enrolled. The Six Minute Walk Test (6MWT) and the Minnesota Living with Heart Failure Questionnaire (MLHFQ) were used for construct validity. Results: A significant correlation was found between the results of the 6MWT and the LCADL total score (r = −0.504; p < 0.001) and the LCADL scale and the MLHFQ (r = 0.703; p < 0.001), except for the domestic activities dimension (r = 0.278; p = 0.062). Reliability revealed an α of 0.917. Conclusions: The study presents the validation of the European Portuguese version of the LCADL scale in patients with HF, emphasizing its reliability and cultural appropriateness. The LCADL scale has proven effective in assessing dyspnea-induced limitations in ADLs, and this study expands its utility by suggesting broader clinical setting applications. Future research should explore its adaptability in diverse healthcare settings, potentially enhancing personalized care strategies and patient outcomes. This work underscores the LCADL scale’s role in facilitating more targeted and effective interventions for managing ADL limitations in patients with HF, suggesting a significant impact on clinical practices and patient care management.
Awareness of and Challenges in Utilizing the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission for Healthcare Delivery: Qualitative Insights from University Students in Coastal Karnataka in India
Authors: Kamath Rajesh , Banu Muneera , Shet Nagaraj , Jayapriya Varshini R. , Lakshmi Ramesh Vani , Jahangir Selim , Akthar Nahima , Brand Helmut , Prabhu Vidya , Singh Vishwajeet , Kamath Sagarika
Published: February 2025

Background: The Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM) aims to enhance healthcare delivery in India through digital integration. The ABDM, an essential part of India’s healthcare system, aspires to transform healthcare delivery through digitization, by emphasizing affordability, accessibility, and transparency. This qualitative study investigated the awareness, challenges, and perceptions of the ABDM among postgraduate students in coastal Karnataka, focusing on their experiences and interactions with digital health technologies. Methodology: A qualitative descriptive approach was employed, involving semi-structured interviews with 17 purposively selected participants from a health science university. The interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, and analyzed using the NVivo 12 software for thematic analysis. Results: This study revealed that, while many students recognized the ABDM’s goal of establishing comprehensive digital health infrastructure to seamlessly integrate healthcare services and information systems, detailed knowledge about its functionalities, implementation processes, and challenges was limited. Participants highlighted the need for improved digital literacy and support to maximize the effective use of the ABDM. Conclusions: The successful implementation of the ABDM depends on overcoming major challenges such as poor awareness and concerns about data security. Addressing these issues will require focused educational campaigns, increased accessibility, and joint efforts by the government, healthcare providers, and technological partners.
The Impact of Diabetes on Outcomes for Tibiotalocalcaneal Arthrodesis: A Systematic Review of Available Comparative Studies
Authors: Talaski Grayson M. , Baumann Anthony N. , Chiaramonti Nicholas I. , Schonhorst Nolan M. , O’Neill Conor N. , Walley Kempland C. , Anastasio Albert T. , Adams Samuel B.
Published: February 2025

Background/Objectives: Tibiotalocalcaneal (TTC) arthrodesis is commonly used in salvage situations involving the ankle and subtalar joint, often in patients with concomitant diabetes mellitus (DM). Across orthopedics, DM presents an overall increased risk of developing complications post-surgically. In this systematic review, the primary aim was to summarize the outcomes and complications of patients undergoing TTC arthrodesis with DM. Methods: A qualitative systematic review was conducted, with an initial search performed on 30 August 2023, using PubMed, SPORTDiscus, CINAHL, and MEDLINE. The search algorithm “tibiotalocalcaneal” AND (nail OR nails) AND (fusion OR arthrodesis) was applied, following PRISMA guidelines. Inclusion criteria encompassed articles examining the impact of diabetes on TTC arthrodesis outcomes. Data extraction involved patient demographics, complication rates, and surgical outcomes. Due to data heterogeneity, a narrative approach was utilized to describe results across studies. Results: Four articles met the inclusion criteria. These observational comparative studies were of moderate quality, with a mean MINORS score of 20.5 ± 1.9 points. The combined patient cohort included 162 patients, evenly split between diabetic and non-diabetic groups, with a mean age of 58.2 ± 2.7 years and a follow-up duration of 35.0 ± 7.4 months. Diabetic patients exhibited higher rates of superficial infection, though functional outcomes and fusion rates were generally favorable. Conclusions: TTC arthrodesis in diabetic patients was associated with an increased risk of superficial infections and various other complications. Despite these risks, functional outcomes and rates of successful fusion were comparable to non-diabetic patients undergoing TTC arthrodesis. This review highlights the need for standardized definitions of surgical success.
Epitope Mapping with Sidewinder: An XL-MS and Structural Modeling Approach
Authors: Ströbaek Joel , Tang Di , Gueto-Tettay Carlos , Gomez Toledo Alejandro , Olofsson Berit , Hartman Erik , Heusel Moritz , Malmström Johan , Malmström Lars
Published: February 2025

Antibodies are critical to the host’s immune defense against bacterial pathogens. Understanding the mechanisms of antibody–antigen interactions is essential for developing new targeted immunotherapies. Building computational workflows that can identify where an antibody binds its cognate antigen and deconvoluting the interaction interface in a high-throughput manner are critical for advancing this field. Cross-linking mass spectrometry (XL-MS) integrated with structural modeling offers a flexible and high-resolution strategy to map protein–protein interactions from low sample amounts. However, cross-linking and in silico modeling have limitations that require robust analytical workflows to make accurate inferences. In this study, we introduce Sidewinder, a modular high-throughput pipeline combining state-of-the-art computational structural prediction and molecular docking with rapid XL-MS analysis, enabling comprehensive interrogation of antibody–antigen systems. We validated this pipeline on antibodies targeting two Streptococcus pyogenes virulence factors. Using recently published data, we identified a well-defined monoclonal antibody epitope on Streptolysin O by generating and querying a large ensemble of interaction models probabilistically. We also showcased the utility of the Sidewinder pipeline by analyzing a more complex system, involving monoclonal antibodies that target the cell wall-anchored M1 protein. The flexibility and robustness of the Sidewinder pipeline provide a powerful framework for future studies of complex antibody–antigen systems, potentially leading to new therapeutic strategies.
Combined Prokaryotic Transcriptomics and Proteomics Analysis of Clinical Trueperella pyogenes Isolates with Distinctive Cytotoxicity
Authors: Liu Ning , Li Qian , Shan Qiang
Published: February 2025

Trueperella pyogenes is a widely distributed opportunistic pathogenic bacterium that can infect livestock, wildlife, community animals, and humans, resulting in suppurative infection of tissue and organ mucosa, including pneumonia, liver abscessation, mastitis, metritis, endocarditis, and osteoarthritis. TP1804 and TP1808 were isolated from the uterine lavage fluid of cows with endometritis. This study analyzed the prokaryotic transcriptomics and proteomics of two strains of T. pyogenes with similar growth curves but different cytotoxicity. Studying the metabolic mechanisms of these differentially expressed genes and proteins can greatly promote the discovery of new biomarkers and improve the accuracy of biomarker identification, which is of great value for molecular mechanisms, biomarkers, early diagnosis of diseases, molecular typing, and prognosis. Our results indicate that the control of the virulence by tRNAs to bacteria during ribosome biosynthesis is crucial.
Non-Invasive Assessment of Neurogenesis Dysfunction in Fetuses with Early-Onset Growth Restriction Using Fetal Neuronal Exosomes Isolating from Maternal Blood: A Pilot Study
Authors: Gusar Vladislava , Kan Natalia , Leonova Anastasia , Chagovets Vitaliy , Tyutyunnik Victor , Khachatryan Zarine , Yarotskaya Ekaterina , Sukhikh Gennadiy
Published: February 2025

The vector of modern obstetrics is aimed at finding ways to predict various placenta-associated complications, including those associated with neuronal dysfunction on in fetal growth restriction (FGR). The technology of fetal neuronal exosome (FNE) isolation from the maternal bloodstream opens up unique opportunities for detecting early signs of fetal brain damage. Using this method, FNEs were isolated from the blood of pregnant women with and without early-onset FGR, and the expression of a number of proteins in their composition was assessed (Western blotting). Significant changes in the level of proteins involved in neurogenesis (pro-BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor), pro-NGF (nerve growth factor), TAG1/Contactin2) and presynaptic transmission (Synapsin 1, Synaptophysin) were revealed. The preliminary data on the expression of FNE proteins that perform post-translational modifications—sumoylation (SUMO 1, UBC9) and neddylation (NEDD8, UBC12)—were obtained. A relationship was established between altered protein expression and neonatal outcomes in newborns with growth restriction. Our study opens up new possibilities for non-invasive prenatal monitoring of fetal neurodevelopment disorders and possibilities of their correction in placenta-associated diseases.
Metabolomics, Genetics, and Environmental Factors: Intersecting Paths in Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
Authors: Fernandes Silva Lilian , Vangipurapu Jagadish , Oravilahti Anniina , Lusis Aldons Jake , Laakso Markku
Published: February 2025

Abdominal aortic aneurysm represents a significant public health concern, particularly in men aged 55 to 64, where it occurs in about 1%. We investigated the metabolomics and genetics of AAA by analyzing a cohort including 76 patients with AAA and randomly selected 228 controls. Utilizing the Metabolon DiscoveryHD4 platform for non-targeted metabolomics profiling, we identified several novel metabolites significantly associated with AAA. These metabolites were primarily related to environmental and lifestyle factors, notably smoking and pesticide exposure, which underscores the influence of external factors on the progression of AAA. Additionally, several genetic variants were associated with xenobiotics, highlighting a genetic predisposition that may exacerbate the effects of these environmental exposures. The integration of metabolomic and genetic data provides compelling evidence that lifestyle, environmental, and genetic factors are intricately linked to the etiology of AAA. The results of our study not only deepen the understanding of the complex pathophysiology of AAA but also pave the way for the development of targeted therapeutic strategies.
Angiotensin Dysregulation in Patients with Arterial Aneurysms
Authors: Leinweber Maria Elisabeth , Walter Corinna , Assadian Afshin , Kopecky Chantal , Domenig Oliver , Kovarik Johannes Josef , Hofmann Amun Georg
Published: February 2025

Besides playing a critical role in maintaining cardiovascular homeostasis, the renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system (RAS) has been strongly implicated in (aortic) aneurysm pathogenesis. This study aims to investigate systemic and local levels of angiotensin (Ang) and its metabolites in patients with arterial aneurysms, predominantly abdominal aortic aneurysms, using advanced biochemical profiling techniques to provide new insights into the involvement of RAS in aneurysm genesis. A prospective, single-center study was conducted between October 2023 and July 2024. Serum Ang metabolite levels were measured using RAS Fingerprint technology. Aortic tissue samples were analyzed for local RAS activity, including Ang levels and enzyme activity. Additionally, pre- and postoperative serum samples were obtained in a select group of patients. In total, 37 aneurysm patients and 56 controls were included. Aneurysm patients exhibited higher systemic levels of nearly all Ang metabolites compared to controls, with significant differences in Ang I (p = 0.002), Ang II (p = 0.047), Ang 1–5 (p = 0.004), and Renin (p = 0.014) in patients without pharmacological RAS interference. Aneurysm patients receiving ACE inhibitors showed lower serum concentrations in ACE2 activity (p = 0.042) and increased Ang IV levels (p = 0.049) compared to controls. Postoperative measurements indicated different dynamics regarding angiotensin metabolite changes in patients with or without ACE inhibition. This study provides the first comprehensive characterization of RAS profiles in aneurysm patients. These findings add to the body of evidence regarding associations between of RAS and the pathogenesis of arterial aneurysms.
Decreasing β-Catenin Leads to Altered Endothelial Morphology, Increased Barrier Permeability and Cognitive Impairment During Chronic Methamphetamine Exposure
Authors: Qiu Hai , Zhang Manting , Chen Chuanxiang , Wang Huijun , Yue Xia
Published: February 2025

Cognitive impairment induced by chronic methamphetamine (METH) exposure exhibits similarities to neurodegenerative disorders and is associated with blood–brain barrier (BBB) dysfunction. However, the potential involvement of β-catenin in maintaining BBB integrity during METH exposure remains unexplored. In this study, Y-maze and novel object recognition tests were conducted to assess cognitive impairment in mice exposed chronically to methamphetamine for 2 and 4 weeks. Gd-DTPA and Evans blue leakage tests revealed disruption of the BBB in the hippocampus, while chronic METH exposure for 2 and 4 weeks significantly decreased β-catenin levels along with its transcriptionally regulated protein, claudin5. Additionally, various neural injury-related proteins, such as APP, Aβ1–42, p-tau (Thr181) and p-tau (Ser396), as well as neuroinflammation-related proteins, such as IL-6, IL-1β, and TNF-α, exhibited increased levels following chronic METH exposure. Furthermore, plasma analysis indicated elevated levels of p-Tau (total), neurofilament light chain, and GFAP. In vitro experiments demonstrated that exposure to METH resulted in dose-dependent and time-dependent reductions in cellular activity and connectivity of bEnd.3 and hcmec/D3 cells. Furthermore, β-catenin exhibited decreased levels and altered subcellular localization, transitioning from the cell membrane to the cytoplasm and nucleus upon METH exposure. Overexpression of β-catenin was found to alleviate endothelial toxicity and attenuate junctional weakening induced by METH. The aforementioned findings underscore the crucial involvement of β-catenin in endothelial cells during chronic METH exposure-induced disruption of the BBB, thereby presenting a potential novel target for addressing METH-associated cerebrovascular dysfunction and cognitive impairment.