bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Abstract B014: MCED - DNA methylation-based liquid biopsy for early detection of HPV-related cancers
Authors: Nedjai Belinda
Published: February 2025

Human papillomavirus (HPV)-related cancers, particularly cervical cancer, as well as other malignancies such as oropharyngeal, anal, and penile cancers, represent significant global health concerns. While HPV infections are common and usually transient, persistent infection with high-risk HPV types (such as HPV-16 and HPV-18) can lead to the development of cancer through a multi-step process that involves the integration of viral DNA into the host genome, leading to disruptions in cellular processes like DNA repair, apoptosis, and cell cycle regulation. In recent years, there has been growing interest in the use of methylation biomarkers as a tool for early detection and prognostication in HPV-related cancers. Methylation, the addition of a methyl group to DNA, is a key epigenetic modification that can influence gene expression without altering the DNA sequence itself. In the context of cancer, abnormal methylation patterns often serve as early indicators of disease, long before the emergence of genetic mutations or overt clinical symptoms. We have developed a DNA methylation biomarkers S5 classifier able to detect high grade cervical precancer lesions and cancer with high accuracy ranging from 93% for CIN3 to 100% for cancer. Here will demonstrate that the same classifier could detect anal, oropharyngeal and vulvar cancer. Results: Over the past 10 years we have extensicely validated this biomarker on cervical collected sanples urine and vagival samples and self-collected samples. We will share the results we ontained for the esrly dtection of cervical cancer, oropharungeal cancer anal cancer and multizonal cancer.This multicancer test could have range of application for gynaecologic cancers and also male cancers.

Citation Format: Belinda Nedjai. MCED - DNA methylation-based liquid biopsy for early detection of HPV-related cancers [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Special Conference in Cancer Research: DNA Methylation, Clonal Hematopoiesis, and Cancer; 2025 Feb 1-4; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2025;85(3 Suppl):Abstract nr B014.
Abstract B022: TEDEdb: Transposable element differential expression database
Authors: Calendo Gennaro H , Chaunzwa Morgan , Dehzangi Iman , Madzo Jozef , Issa Jean-Pierre
Published: February 2025

Epigenetic therapies that induce global DNA hypomethylation activate transcriptionally repressed transposable elements (TEs). The activation of a class of TEs known as human endogenous retroviruses (HERVs) can trigger an innate antiviral response in cells called “viral mimicry”. Viral mimicry induced by aberrantly expressed HERVs stimulates interferon signaling genes resulting in an adaptive immune response that can ultimately lead to immunogenic cell death. This heightened immune activity can enhance the efficacy of immune checkpoint inhibitor therapies. Identifying cancers that are susceptible to a viral mimicry response or treatment regimens that induce aberrant transcription of TEs has not yet been fully explored. Recent computational tools enable the measurement of TE signal from short-read RNA-seq data and several large-scale reprocessing pipelines have uniformly processed RNA-seq data of cancer cell lines treated with epigenetic and cytotoxic drugs. However, these large-scale pipelines omit the quantification of TEs. To address this gap and fully utilize publicly available data, we have developed a computational pipeline and database of TE expression for more than 7,000 samples from 220 cancer cell lines treated with over 700 cytotoxic and epigenetic drugs, yielding over 2,100 differential expression experiments. To illustrate the usefulness of this database, we ranked drugs by %TE activation and found that the top three targets were DNMT (Decitabine), CDK9 (MC180295), and Topoisomerase II (Doxorubicin). We enable the exploration of this dataset by implementing several meta-analysis methods and visualizations made available as an interactive web application. This database and web application can serve as a valuable resource for the cancer and epigenetics community by enabling hypothesis generation and providing insights into how specific drugs may induce TE expression.

Citation Format: Gennaro H Calendo, Morgan Chaunzwa, Iman Dehzangi, Jozef Madzo, Jean-Pierre Issa. TEDEdb: Transposable element differential expression database [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Special Conference in Cancer Research: DNA Methylation, Clonal Hematopoiesis, and Cancer; 2025 Feb 1-4; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2025;85(3 Suppl):Abstract nr B022.
Abstract B023: Harnessing the dual therapeutic approach of CRISPR/CAS9 and CAR-T cell technologies in KRAS mutated solid tumors
Authors: Kadir SDanish
Published: February 2025

Kirsten Rat Sarcoma Virus mutation and its complications have been a major concern. Limitations to drawing its accurate configuration, its complications; mutates and thermodynamic properties, have limited their effectiveness as a molecular diagnostic tool. To counteract these challenges, over the years a different set of sophisticated Immunotherapeutic approaches have been adopted such as Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats (CRISPR), Caspase Protein System (CAS), and Chimeric Antigen Receptor-T cell (CAR-T). Some of them have already managed approval of the Food and Drug Administration. One of the primary goals of CRISPR/CAS technology is to correct mutations within the genetic sequence, thereby potentially repairing defective genes like KRAS. Meanwhile, CAR-T immunotherapies capitalise on genetically modified T cells. In comparison to traditional therapies, immunotherapies can offer greater safety and precision. However, their efficacy is still questionable while treating solid tumours. Here authors have covered the various key targets such as p53, p21, WNT, and RAS, their success stories over the years and have proposed the importance of targets like KRAS oncogene to manage a better output. KRAS is a RAS family oncoprotein responsible for the development of 85% of different cancers. The missense mutations at the various KRAS hotspots can lead to the development of lung and Pancreatic Cancers. Some of the most recently conducted revolutionary studies synthesize CAR-NK, CAR-M, and CRISPR-Cas9/3/10/Novel CAS systems, as well as their prospective molecular combination to target the KRAS. The purpose of this study is to provide a present status of these therapies, limitations, clinical trials, and a proposal to sketch a combinatorial impact via the PRISMA model for 62 different manuscripts (2001-2024). This format aligns and organizes everything in Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, providing a clear and systematic infographic that represents the process, including stages of selection, screening, and documentation.

Citation Format: SDanish Kadir. Harnessing the dual therapeutic approach of CRISPR/CAS9 and CAR-T cell technologies in KRAS mutated solid tumors [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Special Conference in Cancer Research: DNA Methylation, Clonal Hematopoiesis, and Cancer; 2025 Feb 1-4; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2025;85(3 Suppl):Abstract nr B023.
Abstract B025: Inducible mouse models of cancer driver mutations as a powerful tool for in vivo and epigenetic studies of colorectal cancer
Authors: Kalkat Manpreet , Hinoue Toshinori , Kang Liang , Laird Peter W. , Olesnavich Mary
Published: February 2025

Human colorectal cancer (CRC) most often arises as a result of spontaneous genetic driver mutations such as APC, BRAF, KRAS, SMAD4, and TP53. These are among the most common drivers of CRC and are thought to contribute directly to cancer initiation and growth. CRC tumors harboring BRAFV600E mutation exhibit a CpG Island Methylator Phenotype (CIMP). Other drivers are also more weakly associated with distinct DNA methylation profiles. It is not clear whether these DNA methylation profiles are a result of differences in the cells-of-origin for these cancers, with pre-existing methylation patterns or whether there is selective pressure for various DNA methylation alterations that cooperate with each driver. To address this question, we have modeled this in mice by inducing colon tumors in a controlled cell population at the same age, with either BRAFF-V600E, KRASLSLG12D, Smad4, or Trp53 drivers in combination with Apc heterozygosity. We have profiled DNA methylation in tumors arising in these mice to determine the interaction between different driver mutations and the tumor methylome. Using a multiple linear regression model, we have identified DNA methylation alterations that are shared across all tumor samples, as well as changes that are specific to each of the different genetic drivers. The DNA methylation profiles accurately recapitulate well-established findings, including high levels of hypermethylation in KRASLSLG12D and BRAF F-V600E tumors reminiscent of CpG Island Methylator Phenotype (CIMP), universal tumor hypermethylation at binding sites for transcription factors involved in intestinal epithelial differentiation, and hypomethylation at AP1 complex component binding sites. Driver-specific histology findings broadly align with those observed in human cancers, such as sessile serrated morphology in BRAFF-V600E mutated tumors. The tumor models with different driver mutations also show variation in hypermethylation of polycomb repressive complex target sites and replicative history. We are using the differences in the DNA methylation profiles between the driver tumor models in conjunction with RNA-seq analysis and conservation of the alterations in human CRC to identify epigenetic events cooperative with the drivers and functionally relevant to tumorigenesis.

Citation Format: Manpreet Kalkat, Toshinori Hinoue, Liang Kang, Peter W. Laird, Mary Olesnavich. Inducible mouse models of cancer driver mutations as a powerful tool for in vivo and epigenetic studies of colorectal cancer [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Special Conference in Cancer Research: DNA Methylation, Clonal Hematopoiesis, and Cancer; 2025 Feb 1-4; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2025;85(3 Suppl):Abstract nr B025.
Abstract IA007: DNA methylation in cancer: From knowledge to applications
Authors: Esteller Manel
Published: February 2025

For the last thirty years an increasing amount of evidence has shown the relevance of epigenetics in cell biology and tissue physiology, being DNA methylation aberrations in cancer the flag-ship for the recognition of its disturbance in human diseases. From the candidate gene approaches, new powerful technologies such as comprehensive DNA methylation microarrays and whole genome bisulfite sequencing has recently emerged that have reinforced the notion of epigenetic disruption in the crossroad of many sickness. From the poster-boy case of MGMT hypermethylation in the prediction of alkylating drug response to the personalized treatment of leukemia with small molecules targeted to fusion proteins involving histone modifiers, the field has walked a long path. The current talk will focus in the epigenetic profiling, basically at the level of DNA methylation and histone modifications, that is starting to provide clinical value in the diagnosis, prognosis and prediction of response to drug therapies. For cancer, we have already a wide view of the undergoing DNA methylation events that expand beyond classical promoter CpG islands of tumor suppressor genes and we have a growing list of mutated chromatin remodeler genes that contributes to the tumorigenesis process. It is time to apply this knowledge in practical clinical situations like the diagnosis of cancers of unknown primary, the screening of malignancies in high-risk populations or a biomarker selection of the patients that should receive treatment with anticancer drugs, including immunotherapy. Beyond cancer, DNA methylation is starting to be recognized as playing a major role in infectious diseases, and in this regard, the present lecture will also address the epigenomic component of COVID-19. Most important, Epigenomics can be added to Genomics, Transcriptomics and Proteomics plus Bioinformatics to create a Multomics view of human diseases.

Citation Format: Manel Esteller. DNA methylation in cancer: From knowledge to applications [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Special Conference in Cancer Research: DNA Methylation, Clonal Hematopoiesis, and Cancer; 2025 Feb 1-4; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2025;85(3 Suppl):Abstract nr IA007
Frick’s Defense of the Procreation Asymmetry
Authors: Bykvist Krister , Campbell Tim
Published: February 2025

The Procreation Asymmetry, in strongest form, states (roughly) that while we have no reason to create happy people, we do have reason not to create unhappy people. Despite its popularity among non-utilitarian philosophers, it has been surprisingly difficult to give an adequate theoretical defense of this asymmetry. However, in a recent paper, Johann Frick attempts to provide a unified account of the asymmetry that avoids the problems with previous attempts. One of Frick’s novel claims is that a certain wide-scope conditional reasons principle, together with two plausible inference rules, serves to capture both conjuncts of the asymmetry. We argue that while Frick’s account is more plausible than previous accounts, it can explain the asymmetry only by appealing to a unexplained further asymmetry that in effect reaffirms the asymmetry, and that the wide-scope conditional reasons principle does not help to provide a satisfactory explanation of the asymmetry.
Febvre’s Climate of Sciences. When Human Geography Met Intellectual History (Tome 146, 7e Série, n° 1-2, (2025))
Authors: Brian Éric
Published: February 2025

Although Lucien Febvre left exemplary works of economic and social history and of intellectual and religious history, to dissociate these two aspects of his work would be to overlook his most important methodological contribution in this second area: the concept of the “climate of science” or the “climate” of intellectual activity. In order to reconstruct its development from the 1920s to the 1940s, it is important to show how Febvre constructed a synthesis of proposals formulated by the philosopher Henri Berr, the psychologist Henri Wallon and the physicist Paul Langevin. He was opposed to Ratzel’s deterministic approach to human geography and he considered that all innovative human activities were the result of probabilities of options within a spectrum of possibilities that it was then up to the historian to reconstruct.
A study on energy dissipation of aramid composite reinforced with a new shear thickening gel (n-STG)/PVA polymer matrix
Authors: Zarrin Nasim , Abbasi Marjan , Sadighi Mojtaba , Goodarz Mostafa
Published: February 2025

In this article, a new shear thickening gel (n-STG)/Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) polymer matrix-reinforced interlayers of Kevlar fabrics are used. Rheology and dynamic mechanical analysis (DMTA) tests were used to characterize the shear-thickening properties of n-STG. SEM images showed that the fabric’s surface was fully covered with n-STG after the STG treatment. Two layers of Kevlar fabrics with an area density of 600 g/m2 (total = 1200 g/m2) are compared to the six levels of the Kevlar fabrics with an area density of 200 g/m2. The puncture resistance of n-STG/Kevlar 200 composite is the highest. The pull-out test was performed to investigate the inter-yarn friction. In low-velocity impact test, n-STG/Kevlar absorbs about 90.0% of the impact energies. The energy-balance model very well matches the experimental results. Finally, the performance of the samples was examined in response to changing the impact energy, weight of n-STG, and number of layers.
Impact of psychedelics on craving in addiction: A systematic review
Authors: Chapron Sophie-Athéna , Bonazzi Guilhem , Di Lodovico Laura , de Ternay Julia , Landmann Camille , Nourredine Mikail , Salvo Francesco , Sessa Ben , Das Ravi , Rolland Benjamin , Garcia-Romeu Albert , Auriacombe Marc
Published: February 2025

Background:

In the context of the need to increase treatment options for substance use disorders, recent research has evaluated the therapeutic potential of psychedelics. However, there is an incomplete understanding of psychedelics’ effects on craving, a core symptom of addictive disorders and a predictor of substance use and relapse.

Aims:

To determine if the use of psychedelics is associated with changes in craving in humans.

Methods:

A systematic review of the literature, using PubMed, PsycInfo, and Scopus databases up to May 2023. We included all studies assessing any substance craving levels after psychedelic use (protocol registration number CRD42021242856).

Results:

Thirty-eight published articles were included, corresponding to 31 studies and 2639 participants, pertaining either to alcohol, opioid, cocaine, or tobacco use disorders. Twelve of the 31 included studies reported a significant decrease in craving scores following psychedelic use. All but two studies had methodological issues, leading to moderate to high risk of bias scores.

Conclusions:

Some psychedelics may show promising anti-craving effects, yet the diversity and high risk of bias of extant studies indicate that these results are to be considered with caution. Further well-controlled and larger-scale trials should be encouraged.
A CFD study of the effects of shroud geometry and flange thickness on the harvested power of a shrouded micro wind turbine
Authors: Maftouni Negin , Livani Arezoo Jamal
Published: February 2025

In this work the effects of various shroud types and flange thicknesses on the performance of a micro wind turbine are studied. For the first time the micro wind turbine has been simulated inside the shroud, simultaneously. Two 3D models, one of an airfoil-revolved shroud and the other of a nozzle-diffuser shroud inspired by the geometry of the airfoil-based shroud, have been simulated in order to compare the results. Moreover, for the first time in the literature the thickness of the flange has been changed to study its effect on the Turbine efficiency. It is evident from the results that the micro wind turbine experiences the highest increase in output power when equipped with a nozzle-diffuser shroud featuring a thick flange. The power coefficient in this instance is 0.313, indicating a 125% increase compared to the bared wind turbine and a 32% increase compared to the flangeless nozzle-diffuser case.
Multi-Agent Deep Reinforcement Learning with Graph Attention Network for Traffic Signal Control in Multiple-Intersection Urban Areas
Authors: Yang Guoqing , Wen Xin , Chen Fuqiang
Published: February 2025

Deep reinforcement learning has seen significant progress in traffic signal control. However, existing research still lacks the ability to effectively capture the correlation of road network information and the perception capability of traffic signal states. To address this gap, we propose a multi-intersection traffic signal control method that integrates a graph attention network, named the graph attention network-deep deterministic polcy gradient (GAT-DDPG) algorithm. This algorithm incorporates the restart random walk into the attention mechanism, exploring graph information through global random walks, reducing reliance on local nodes, and enhancing the model’s comprehensive understanding of graph structure features, thereby improving the modeling capability of traffic network structures. Moreover, the algorithm can automatically identify and extract key features from the complex data of the traffic network without manual intervention, adapting to different traffic network topologies, and can update and adjust the traffic signal control system in real-time to accommodate actual traffic flow and congestion situations. Experimental results indicate that the GAT-DDPG algorithm reduces average vehicle travel time significantly across three real road networks (Hangzhou and Jinan in China, and New York, U.S.) and two synthetic road network datasets. Additionally, it demonstrates optimal convergence speed and performance in these real datasets, attributed to its capability to capture global information and deeply comprehend the intricate structures of traffic networks. The research proves that this model has significant advantages in the field of traffic signal control, improving the operational efficiency of urban area intersections. Future work will incorporate additional road environment factors to better adapt to complex urban traffic.
A Quantitative Fatty Infiltration Evaluation of the Supraspinatus Muscle: Enhanced Clinical Relevance and Improved Diagnostic Value on Predicting Retear Compared With the Goutallier Classification
Authors: Xie Jianhao , Zhou Meng , Guo Zhe , Zhu Yiming , Jiang Chunyan
Published: February 2025

Background:

Preoperative assessment of fatty degeneration is important for managing rotator cuff tears. The Goutallier classification is semiquantitative and observer dependent. Discrepancies among surgeons can be prominent. A quantitative method may improve accuracy and reliability in evaluating the exact percentage of fatty infiltration (Fat%).

Hypothesis/Purpose:

This study aimed to investigate the correlation between the new quantitative method and the Goutallier classification in assessing fatty infiltration (FI) of the supraspinatus muscle and to explore the use of this method in predicting retear after rotator cuff repair. It was hypothesized that the new method would significantly correlate with the Goutallier classification and be more sensitive to retear.

Study Design:

Cohort study (diagnosis); Level of evidence; 3.

Methods:

This study included 105 patients who underwent arthroscopic rotator cuff repair for large to massive tears. All patients underwent routine preoperative and 1-year postoperative magnetic resonance imaging and were divided into 2 groups according to tendon healing. Preoperative quantitative Fat% of the supraspinatus muscle was evaluated based on the signal intensity (SI) of the T1-weighted sequence. The Fat% was calculated using the following equation: SIsupraspinatus = SIfat× Fat% + SImuscle× (1 – Fat%). The correlation between the Fat% and the Goutallier grade was determined. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to identify the independent risk factors for retear.

Results:

The mean preoperative Fat% of the supraspinatus muscle was 23.77 ± 15.96. A significant correlation was found between the Fat% and the Goutallier grade of the supraspinatus muscle ( R = 0.655; P < .001). The overall retear rate was 21.9%; however, functional status significantly improved regardless of cuff healing. Multivariate analysis identified the Fat% ( P = .005) and the modified Patte classification ( P = .003) as independent risk factors of retear. The receiver operating characteristic curves showed that the cutoff value of Fat% for predicting retear was 33.2%. Fat% >33.2% possessed superior diagnostic accuracy (79.0%), Youden index (0.513), and positive and negative predictive values (51.6% and 90.5%, respectively) compared with the Goutallier grades.

Conclusion:

Although the quantitative method for assessing Fat% of the supraspinatus muscle significantly correlated with the Goutallier classification, the quantitative method is more clinically relevant to retear. Fat% of the supraspinatus muscle >33.2% possessed higher diagnostic value than the Goutallier grades in predicting retear.
Measurement of Hopelessness in Families of Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder: Dimensionality and Measurement Invariance of the Beck Hopelessness Scale
Authors: Huang Yulin , Bao Yuchang , Ho Hung Chak , Lin Miaoxuan , Tao Yanqiang , Liu Yu , Chen Fu
Published: February 2025

The study aimed to assess the suitability of the Beck Hopelessness Scale (BHS) in evaluating the hopelessness of parents with children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Using multidimensional item response theory modelling, the research involved 437 participants recruited from a private psychological institution in Shenzhen, China. The findings indicated a method effect on the factor structure of the BHS, with a bifactor model representing the best fit for the data, consisting of a general hopelessness factor and two method effect factors. Moreover, the study verified the measurement invariance of the BHS across genders and concluded that it measures a single latent construct among parents of children with ASD, despite its multidimensional nature being attributed to the wording of items. In general, the research supports the BHS as a psychometrically sound instrument for assessing the hopelessness of family members of children with ASD.
Perceived Organizational Reputation and Employee Outcomes: Looking in the Organizational Mirror, What do Employees See?
Authors: Pedersen Mette Østergaard , Andersen Lotte Bøgh , Gregersen Daniel Skov , Salomonsen Heidi Houlberg
Published: February 2025

Bureaucratic Reputation Theory focuses on external stakeholders, but it is plausible that reputation also plays an important role for internal stakeholders. This article therefore asks whether employees’ perception of their organization’s reputation matters for their organizational identification and job satisfaction. Based on a balanced panel with 193 employees from three Danish agencies surveyed in 2019 and 2020, the article finds that employees’ perception of their organization’s reputation relates positively to their job satisfaction and that this relation is partly mediated by employee’s identification with their organization. In addition to being important externally, this implies that organizational reputation is also a managerial asset in public organizations.
Understanding the Temporal Lobe’s Role in Hearing: A Scoping Review
Authors: Swain Santosh Kumar
Published: February 2025

Background:

The temporal lobe is an intricate brain structure with unique features, playing a key role in auditory perception. The connection between abnormalities in the temporal lobe and hearing loss is a significant sensory disruption in the human brain.

Methods:

This review article offers an in-depth analysis of the temporal lobe’s anatomy, physiology and functions, highlighting its involvement in hearing impairment. This analysis draws from a review of various significant research articles on temporal lobe dysfunction, along with a clear and concise overview of the temporal lobe’s structure and functions with respect to hearing.

Results:

The temporal lobe is a crucial component of the human brain. It has an important function for hearing along with several cognitive processes such as information processing. This review article also explores the connection between abnormalities in the temporal lobe and hearing loss, providing compelling evidence that irregularities in the temporal lobe are linked to auditory impairments.

Conclusion:

In routine clinical practices, physicians often face challenges in managing temporal lobe diseases because of limited resources, insufficient comprehensive data, healthcare access disparities and insufficient neuro-auditory assessments. Holistic management needs an understanding of patients’ hearing impairment and temporal lobe lesions. Further research is required for a proper understanding of the temporal lobe functions, healthcare gaps and enhanced healthcare technology.
Relationship Between Abdominal Circumference and Incidence of Hypotension During Caesarean Section in Pre-eclamptic and Non-pre-eclamptic Patients Under Spinal Anaesthesia
Authors: Gagandeep  , Kour Arvinpreet , Singh Akashdeep , Kaur Jasmeet
Published: February 2025

Background and Aims:

Hypotension after spinal anaesthesia is a frequent problem in obstetric patients. Intra-abdominal volume and abdominal circumference (AC) are correlated. During pregnancy, maternal AC rises and is influenced by the uterus, amniotic fluid, and size of the foetus. Previous studies have demonstrated associations between larger AC and higher abdominal pressure and level of sensory block. Several studies have shown that the risk of hypotension in pre-eclampsia is less after spinal anaesthesia as compared to healthy parturient.

Aims and Objectives:

The aim of the study was to evaluate the relationship between the AC and incidence of hypotension during caesarean under spinal anaesthesia. We also wanted to compare the degree of hypotension post-spinal between pre-eclampsia and non-pre-eclamptic patients.

Patients and Methods:

This observational study was conducted at the Department of Anesthesiology, Maharishi Markandeshwar Institute of Medical Sciences and Research, Mullana, Ambala, with institutional ethical committee approval and written informed consent from the patients. Group 1 consisted of pre-eclampsia patients, and Group 2 comprised non-pre-eclampsia patients undergoing caesarean section.

Observations and Results:

AC of the patients in both groups showed no difference of statistical significance, but there was a significant statistical difference in the haemodynamics in patients of the two groups.

Conclusion:

We observed a higher incidence of hypotension in a non-pre-eclamptic group, which was statistically significant and not related to variations in AC. This implies that AC has no correlation with post-spinal hypotension.
Cardiac Crisis Simulations: Traditional vs. Escape Room Learning for Nursing Students
Authors: Olivieri Shannon S. , Cardaci Macario Kimberly , De Gula Renz Nikka , Zimmerman Stephanie , Brocker David
Published: February 2025

Background

To meet the diverse learning needs of nursing students, educators must develop teaching strategies that increase confidence and satisfaction with learning, as well as promote critical thinking and clinical judgment.

Aim

This study aimed to compare the impact of Traditional Simulation (TS) learning versus Escape Room Simulation (ERS) learning on nursing students’ satisfaction and self-confidence in caring for a patient experiencing an acute cardiac event. It was hypothesized that the escape room simulation would provide similar or improved outcomes in terms of satisfaction and self-confidence as compared to traditional simulation.

Methods

In this experimental design study, students’ self-reported responses to the Student Satisfaction and Self-Confidence in Learning (SSSCL) survey were compared between the simulation (n = 20) and escape room (n = 18) cohorts in a pre-licensure baccalaureate nursing program.

Results

There was no significant difference in satisfaction with current learning and self-confidence in learning between the simulation groups and the escape room groups.

Conclusion

The findings suggest that escape room simulation-based education can be used in lieu of traditional simulation without compromising students’ confidence and satisfaction with learning.
A Design Sprint to Develop Human Factors-Based Heuristics to Aid in Product Procurement Decisions
Authors: Loganathar Shanmugapriya , McCray Megan M. , Kamaraj Amudha V. , Webster Kristen , Kandaswamy Swaminathan , Chan Y. Raymond , Jamil Melinda , Shepherd Ashley , Fouquet Sarah , Bezpalko Orysia , Barg-Walkow Laura , Larsen Ethan , Anderson-Montoya Brittany L. , Won James
Published: February 2025

Product substitution is a common dilemma in healthcare settings as products become unavailable due to supply chain shortages or other factors. Substitute products can pose risks to patient safety when not carefully selected. This study developed a human factors-based heuristic evaluation tool to help healthcare professionals make informed decisions when choosing substitute products. The heuristic evaluation tool was developed through a design sprint that involved human factors experts and healthcare practitioners. Stakeholder evaluation led to improvements in heuristic evaluation categories. The final proposed tool evaluated products across five categories: product safety, usability, use, storage and maintenance, organizational support, and cost.
Can Democracy Protect Lower-Income Countries From Becoming Pollution Havens?
Authors: Bernauer Thomas , Böhmelt Tobias , Henninger Ella
Published: February 2025

Lower-income countries absorb a substantial part of other countries’ consumption-related environmental footprints, with international trade and foreign direct investment (FDI) serving as the conduit for this environmental “insourcing.” We examine whether democratic institutions could help mitigate the risk of lower-income countries becoming pollution havens in this context. Using data on CO2 emissions for all non-OECD countries in 1990–2019, we find that democratic institutions can indeed mitigate the otherwise pollution-increasing effect of trade and FDI. Substantively, this mitigation effect is in the order of 0.14 metric tons of CO2 per capita and, thus, quite substantial. We also observe similar effects for more broadly defined environmental footprint measures. Overall, the evidence we present is consistent with the expectation that democracy helps in protecting lower-income countries against disproportionately accumulating polluting economic activity in an open global economy.
Framing Affects Support for the Development of Artificial Intelligence in the United States
Authors: Palm Risa , Kingsland Justin T. , Bolsen Toby
Published: February 2025

Artificial intelligence (AI) has the potential to advance health care, industrial productivity, and environmental sustainability but also presents risks such as job loss and uncontrolled superintelligent machines. Understanding public opinion about AI is key for anticipating its governance. This study examines how media framing affects U.S. beliefs about AI and support for its development. A survey experiment involved respondents reading articles highlighting either AI’s benefits or risks, revealing how such information can influence opinion on AI’s societal impacts. The findings emphasize the crucial role of framing in shaping public views on AI, with implications for policymakers and stakeholders.
Believing the Untrue: How Social Media, Sexism, and Structural Gender Inequality Influence Misinformation About Women Politicians
Authors: Ahmed Saifuddin , Masood Muhammad , Ting Adeline Bee Wei
Published: February 2025

We explore the link between social media news consumption and belief in misinformation about women politicians in India. In addition, we investigate the roles of sexism, with cognitive ability (individual factor) and gender inequality status (of the state where respondents reside) as structural-level moderating factors. Results indicate a positive association between social media news use and belief in misinformation, mediated by hostile and benevolent sexism. Furthermore, we find that low-cognitive individuals in states with high structural gender inequality are most vulnerable to misinformation. The results emphasize the need to create more gender equality structurally, to reduce susceptibility to gendered misinformation.
Victims of Circumstance or Uncooperative Immigrants?: Intersectional Constructions of Accountability in Finnish Online Discussions on ‘Street Gangs’
Authors: Lönnroth-Olin Marja
Published: February 2025

The article analyses how online audiences discuss the ‘street gang’ phenomenon in Finland, a topic that has garnered a considerable amount of public attention and concern. The public discussions have been clearly gendered and racialized, and young immigrant men have been constructed as the main culprits. Gangs have been constructed as a threat to Finnish values and national security. The discussions resemble the moral panics emerging in times of societal uncertainty. Consisting of comments on news articles about street gangs, data for the article were collected from three online media news sites (hs.fi, yle.fi and svenska.yle.fi). The analysis combines critical discursive psychology with an intersectional approach to show how intersectional categorisations, such as age, class, gender and ethnicity, are mobilized by the general public to construct accountability for society, the family or the individual.
Reliability of paramagnetic rim lesion detection at 1.5T MRI in multiple sclerosis patients
Authors: Martire Maria Sofia , Moiola Lucia , Maggi Pietro , Borrelli Serena , Novati Valentina , Martinelli Vittorio , Rocca Maria A , Vezzulli Paolo , Falini Andrea , Filippi Massimo , Absinta Martina
Published: February 2025

Background:

Paramagnetic rim lesions (PRL) are valuable for diagnosing and prognosing multiple sclerosis (MS) and detectable at 7T and 3T MRI. For translation into clinical practice, it is essential assessing their visibility on 1.5T clinical scanners.

Objective:

To evaluate the reliability of detecting PRL using commercially available susceptibility-weighted imaging (SWI) at 1.5 versus 3T MRI.

Methods:

SWI images were obtained in 20 people with MS at 1.5T and 3T MRI, with an average scan interval of 1.1 years. Only stable, non-enhancing lesions visible on both scans were analyzed. PRL at 3T were identified by two expert raters using NAIMS PRL criteria and used as a reference. Four raters, blinded to 3T results, assessed PRL at 1.5T. Discrepancies were resolved by consensus.

Results:

PRL were identified in 16 of 20 patients. At 3T, 95 PRL were identified by consensus (mean 5 PRL per patient, range 0–30). Blinded to 3T scans, 82% of PRL were visible at 1.5T (78 of 95 PRL). Interrater reliability was “almost perfect” for both 1.5 and 3T scans. Raters accurately classified all patients as having ⩾1PRL or not at 1.5T.

Conclusion:

The majority of PRL are detectable at 1.5T without significantly reducing the specificity of PRL identification or increasing the detection of pseudo-PRL. This may facilitate their clinical use in MS diagnosis and prognosis.
Mobile Phone Usage and Willingness to Use Mobile Phones to Support Medication Adherence and Receive Text Message Appointment Reminders in Older Outpatients With Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Vu Huyen Thi Thanh , Nguyen Thu Thi Hoai , Luu Minh Ngoc , Nguyen Thuy Phuong , Nguyen Huong Thi Thu , Nguyen Tam Ngoc , Nguyen Thanh Xuan , Ha Linh Vu Huyen , Nguyen Huong Thi Thanh , Thillainadesan Janani , Naganathan Vasi , Do Toan Thi Thanh , Nguyen Anh Trung
Published: February 2025

Background:

Information technology can be used to improve the management of non-communicable diseases, such as diabetes. This study aims to evaluate the willingness of older outpatients with type 2 diabetes to use mobile phones to support medication adherence and receive text message appointment reminders and investigated the factors associated with this willingness.

Methods:

This study was a cross-sectional study conducted at the outpatient department of Dong Da General Hospital. Participants aged 60 and over managed and treated for type 2 diabetes were asked about mobile phone usage. Data were also collected on sociodemographic information, diabetes characteristics, and medical history.

Results:

In the 584 study participants recruited, the mean age was 73.2 (SD: 8.3) years. Approximately 80% patients with diabetes had medium or high treatment adherence and 52.4% had hemoglobin A1c (HbAlc) < 7.5%. In the multilevel logistic regression analysis, the following factors were significantly associated with willingness to using phones to support medication adherence: college, university, or higher level (odds ratio [OR] = 2.35, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.10, 4.99), current smoking (OR = 5.40, 95% CI = 1.01, 28.94), whether they had a mobile phone and type of phone (basic phone: OR = 2.47, 95% CI = 1.42, 4.30; smartphone: OR = 17.93, 95% CI = 8.81, 36.47) . The following factors were significantly associated with willingness to receive these appointment reminders via mobile phone: whether they had a mobile phone and type of phone (basic phone: OR = 2.79, 95% CI = 1.70, 4.59; smartphone: OR = 9.61, 95% CI = 4.61, 19.99) and HbA1c < 7.5 (OR = 0.65, 95% CI = 0.43, 0.99).

Conclusions:

Our study would suggest that there is potential value in using mobile phone to improve the management of diabetes in community living older people but this alone cannot be relied upon.
Palmoplantar plaque psoriasis responsive to upadacitinib: A report of two cases
Authors: Choi Bohmyi , Li Heidi Oi-Yee , Glassman Steven J
Published: February 2025

Palmoplantar plaque psoriasis is more resistant to therapy compared to other phenotypes of psoriasis. To our knowledge, there are no reports of the efficacy of Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors for palmoplantar plaque psoriasis. Two adult females presented with more than 6-year histories of severe palmoplantar plaque psoriasis. The first patient had failed topical therapies, phototherapy, acitretin, and secukinumab. The second patient had failed topical therapies and systemic agents including alitretinoin, cyclosporine, apremilast, ustekinumab, ixekizumab, and risankizumab. Both cases were switched to upadacitinib 15 mg daily, with a complete response by 3 months of therapy and no adverse events. The first patient had slightly elevated fasting triglyceride and the second patient had elevated ALT, both of which are being monitored. This case series highlights the efficacy of upadacitinib in two patients with refractory palmoplantar plaque psoriasis. JAK1 inhibitors may be considered as third-line therapeutic options in patients with refractory palmoplantar plaque psoriasis and no contraindications to JAK inhibitors.
Effect of Baseline Adjacent Segment Degeneration on Clinical Outcomes After Lumbar Fusion
Authors: Toivonen Leevi A. , Mäntymäki Heikki , Benneker Lorin M. , Kautiainen Hannu , Neva Marko H.
Published: February 2025

Study Design

Cohort Study.

Objectives

End-stage degenerative segments above fusion levels have been associated with lower rates for surgical adjacent segment disease. We aimed to explore how this degeneration translates into patient reported outcomes.

Methods

A consecutive series of lumbar fusion patients for degenerative pathologies were enrolled. Preoperative cranial adjacent segment degeneration status was determined using the Combined Imaging Score (CIS). Based on CIS, patients were trichotomized into mild (CIS <7), advanced (CIS 7-10), and end-stage (CIS >10) degeneration tertiles. In analysis, tertiles were adjusted for age, sex, and fusion length to control for potential confounders. The Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) was collected at baseline, 3 months, 1, 2, 5, and 10 years.

Results

197 patients were included. Postoperative improvements were similar across all CIS tertiles at all time-points, except for the marginal 10-point difference at 2-years, in favor of higher degeneration. Despite similar changes, end-stage degeneration (CIS >10) implied marginally lower disability levels at baseline and throughout follow-up. The 10-year all-cause mechanical reoperation rate was lowest in the third tertile (28%, 27%, 22%). Reoperation history was associated with greater disability among advanced degeneration (CIS 7-10); the ODI score difference 9 points, P = .009. Postoperative sagittal alignment was not reflected on physical performance.

Conclusions

Preoperative adjacent segment degeneration status was only marginally reflected on 10-year disability outcomes. End-stage adjacent segment degeneration signaled lower reoperation risk and favorable functional outcomes. Our findings support the assumption that collapsed, end-stage degenerative segments without stenosis can be safely excluded from fusion constructs.
Changing trends from inguinal radical orchiectomy to testis-sparing surgery in pediatric testicular tumors
Authors: Balcı Özlem , Abay Aslı Nur , Yeşil Şule , Karaman İbrahim , Özgüner İsmet Faruk , Kurucu Burçak , Erdoğan Derya , Şahin Gürses , Karaman Ayşe
Published: February 2025

Aim

Pediatric testicular tumors are rare entities accounting for only 1–2% of all pediatric solid tumors. We aimed to present the experiences of a tertiary pediatric hospital on testicular tumors and to reveal the changing surgical treatment trends over the years.

Methods

The patients who underwent surgery for scrotal tumors between 1992 and 2022 were reviewed retrospectively. The patients' demographic data, laboratory, radiologic, histopathological, and surgical findings, and postoperative follow-up were evaluated. The patients were evaluated as prepubertal, postpubertal, and in 10-year periods according to the operation time.

Results

A total of 47 children were identified. The median age was 6.2 years. Twenty-eight (59.6%) patients had left, 14 (29.8%) right, and 5 (10.6%) bilateral testicular tumors. The size of the tumor varied between 1 and 6 cm. Thirty-two (68%) patients were prepubertal. Twenty-four of them were germ-cell tumors, and 79.2% of these patients were prepubertal. The most common germ cell tumors were the yolk sac tumor (n = 9) and mature cystic teratoma (n = 7). Paratesticular rhabdomyosarcoma (n = 6) was the most common paratesticular malignancy. Radical inguinal orchiectomy was performed in 21 and testis-sparing surgery was performed in 11 cases for primary testicular tumors. Testicular biopsy was performed in 9 cases for testicular involvement of Leukemia and Lymphoma. No recurrence was detected with a median follow-up of 6.5 years.

Conclusion

Radical inguinal orchiectomy is still the standard surgical treatment for malignant testicular tumors. With the support of imaging methods, tumor markers, and intraoperative frozen examination, testis-sparing surgery should be preferred in prepubertal and some carefully selected postpubertal benign testicular tumors.
Extracellular volume fraction and native T1 mapping in diabetic cardiomyopathy: a comprehensive meta-analysis
Authors: Marey Ahmed , Alabdullah Ali , Ghorab Hossam , Ali Fatima , Abdulla Jawdat , Narang Akhil , Umair Muhammad
Published: February 2025

Background

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is associated with myocardial fibrosis (MF), a major contributor to adverse cardiovascular outcomes. Cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR), specifically extracellular volume fraction (ECV) and native T1 mapping, offers a non-invasive approach to quantify MF. This study aims to evaluate the utility of ECV and native T1 mapping as biomarkers for cardiac fibrosis and to assess their relationship with diabetes severity, measured by hemoglobin A1C (HbA1C), in patients with T2DM.

Methods

A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted following PRISMA guidelines. Comprehensive searches identified 19 eligible studies comprising 4,117 participants. Weighted mean differences (WMDs) were calculated for ECV and native T1 values between diabetic and non-diabetic groups. Meta-regression assessed the correlation between ECV and HbA1C. Sensitivity and subgroup analyses were performed to explore heterogeneity.

Results

Diabetic patients exhibited significantly higher ECV values than controls (WMD: 2.17; 95% CI: 1.32–3.02), consistent across subgroups excluding cardiac comorbidities (WMD: 2.02; 95% CI: 0.74–3.31). HbA1C levels were also significantly elevated in diabetics (WMD: 1.78; 95% CI: 1.37–2.19). However, no significant difference in native T1 values was observed (WMD: 13.40; 95% CI: -13.98–40.79). Meta-regression revealed no significant correlation between ECV and HbA1C, potentially due to limited data and high heterogeneity (I²: 93.37%).

Conclusions

ECV is a promising marker for quantifying MF in T2DM, demonstrating significant differences between diabetics and controls. The lack of correlation between ECV and HbA1C underscores the complexity of MF in diabetes and highlights the need for further research. Future studies with standardized protocols are essential to validate these findings and refine the use of CMR in diabetic cardiomyopathy.