bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fiscal Rules, Independent Fiscal Institutions and Sovereign Risk: Evidence From the European Union
Authors: Căpraru Bogdan , Georgescu George , Sprincean Nicu
Published: February 2025

This paper examines the effects of fiscal rules (FRs) and independent fiscal institutions (IFIs) on sovereign risk. To address potential endogeneity issues, we employ the System Generalised Method of Moments (GMM) estimator in an analysis comprising 24 European Union member states throughout the 2007–2019 period. Our results indicate that FRs are effective in mitigating sovereign default risk, as measured by credit default swap (CDS) spreads on sovereign bonds. In addition, we document that Member States with better numerical compliance rates with European Union fiscal rules have lower sovereign CDS spreads and thus lower risk. By overseeing and fostering compliance with numerical fiscal targets and enhancing the transparency of the budgetary process, IFIs exert a beneficial impact on the probability of sovereign default, particularly those subject to institutional reforms. Furthermore, more developed financial markets supported by both FRs and IFIs contribute to a reduction in sovereign CDS premiums. Our findings have critical policy implications against the backdrop of European economic and fiscal governance reform.
The effectiveness of a cesarean delivery bundle with vaginal preparation, cefazolin, and azithromycin in reducing postoperative infections: A before‐and‐after study
Authors: Cohen Gal , Schreiber Hanoch , Amer Yakin , Shalev‐Ram Hila , Eliner Or , Biron‐Shental Tal , Kovo Michal
Published: February 2025

Objective

To evaluate the effectiveness of a cesarean delivery (CD) bundle including preoperative vaginal preparation, cefazolin and azithromycin administration, compared with cefazolin alone, in reducing postoperative infections, among women undergoing CD during the second stage of labor.

Methods

In August 2016, our departmental protocol for preventing infectious morbidity in second‐stage CD was revised from preoperative intravenous 2 g cefazolin alone, to preoperative intravenous 2 g cefazolin, intravenous 500 mg azithromycin, and vaginal cleansing with povidone‐iodine. In this before‐and‐after study, the medical records of women who underwent CD during the second stage of labor were reviewed, comparing two time periods: January 2014 to August 2016 (control group, cefazolin alone) and November 2016 to January 2021 (CD bundle group). Obstetric characteristics, postoperative infections, and neonatal outcomes were compared between groups. Composite infectious morbidity was defined as one or more of: endometritis, surgical‐site infection (SSI), abscess, urinary tract infection, and postpartum fever.

Results

During the study period, there were 5265 intrapartum CD, among them 457 were during the second stage of labor. The CD bundle group (n = 331) had lower rates of endometritis, SSI, and composite infectious morbidity compared with the control group (n = 126, 1.2% vs. 4.8%, P = 0.030; 3.0% vs. 7.1%, P = 0.049, 6.9% vs. 14.3%, P = 0.014, respectively). Neonatal outcomes did not differ between groups. Multivariable regression analysis adjusted for confounders revealed that the CD bundle reduced the risk for the composite infectious outcome, with adjusted odds ratio 0.08 (95% confidence interval 0.01–0.50).

Conclusions

In second‐stage CD, adding preoperative azithromycin and vaginal cleansing to cefazolin was efficacious in reducing postoperative infections.
Epidemiological Features and Evolutionary Analysis of Recombinant CVA24v in the Context of a Re‐Emerging AHC Outbreak in China, 2023
Authors: Zhou Lei , Guo Qin , Yu Liheng , Chen Wei , Chen Haiyun , Zhou Xiaofang , Li Jianxiong , Yang Tingting , Cong Ruyi , Liu Ying , Xiao Jinbo , Lu Huanhuan , Xiao Mengyi , Li Fan , Zhang Yong , Yan Dongmei
Published: February 2025

China experienced another outbreak of acute hemorrhagic conjunctivitis (AHC) in 2023, with a total of 195 297 recorded cases. This marks the third nationwide outbreak in nearly two decades, following previous outbreaks in 2007 and 2010. Descriptive epidemiological analysis shows that the number of cases in 2023 peaked in September, similar to the last two outbreaks. The age groups with the highest incidence rate of the three outbreaks in 2007, 2010, and 2023 are 15–20, 10–15, and 10–15 years old, respectively. Students are the main occupational group in the three outbreaks. Hainan, Guangxi, and Guangdong were the top three regions with high incidence rates in the three outbreaks. In 2023, the incidence rate in Hainan Province is the highest ever. Pathogenetic analyses show that the pathogens isolated during the 2023 outbreak were identified as the GIV genotype of CVA24v. Seven different recombination patterns were identified in the recombination analysis of the Chinese strains in 2023 and representative strains of global outbreaks since 1988. These patterns mainly involved the recombination signals of EV‐C96 and PV in the 5′ untranslated region and 3C and 3D regions. Although recombination events of CVA24v are rarely reported, its recombination was consistently present through systematic analysis in this study. This study comprehensively analyzed the 2023 AHC re‐emerging data and isolated CVA24v sequences, providing valuable data for future CVA24v molecular epidemiology studies.
Continuous Tracking for Effective Tackling: Ad5/35 Platform‐Based JN1 Lineage Vaccines Development in Response to Evolving SARS‐CoV‐2 Variants
Authors: Chang Soojeong , Shin Jieun , Park Seowoo , Park Hyemin , Kim Jong Heon , Kim Tae Wan , Jung In Kyung , Song Boyeong , Shin Kwang‐Soo , Park Bongju , Kim Seo‐Yeon , Jeon Ji Hyang , Yeo Jinah , Lee Tae‐Young , Kang Chang‐Yuil
Published: February 2025

The SARS‐CoV‐2 virus is continuously evolving, such that JN.1 and its subvariants, including KP.2, KP.3, and LB.1, are now predominant variants globally. JN.1 is derived from BA.2.86, which harbors more than 30 mutations in the spike protein compared with those of XBB and BA.2, and it carries an additional L455S mutation. Given the rapid evolution of these variants, assessing the neutralization capacity of current JN.1 lineage vaccines against prevalent variants, such as KP.3, is critical. Phylogenetic trees using spike protein sequences and antigenic cartography based on neutralization results reveal that JN.1 lineage variants are antigenically distant from previously circulating variants. Moreover, JN.1 subvariants showed inadequate neutralization titers compared with other variants against XBB.1.5‐containing vaccine in mice. Immunization with vaccines targeting the JN.1, KP.2, KP.3, and LB.1 variants demonstrated significant neutralizing activity against predominant variants in mice. These results highlight the importance of vaccine development to keep pace with the evolution of SARS‐CoV‐2 variants and the need for updated vaccines targeting the JN.1 variant.
Characterising Local Flood‐Inducing Heavy Rainfall Through Daily Weather Types and Large‐Scale Climatic Patterns: Aotearoa New Zealand Study Case
Authors: Pozo Andrea , Wilson Matthew , Katurji Marwan , Cagigal Laura , Méndez Fernando J. , Lane Emily
Published: January 2025

Flooding is the most frequent natural hazard in Aotearoa New Zealand and the second most costly after earthquakes. It will change in frequency and intensity, becoming more extreme as climate change impacts are realised. The main inundation driver is heavy rainfall. In this study, flood‐inducing heavy rainfall is characterised locally by applying synoptic climatological techniques, using the study case of Aotearoa New Zealand. Extending on previous work in the field, a new set of 49 daily weather types (DWTs) is proposed for New Zealand, based on mean sea level pressure (MLSP) and 500 hPa geopotential height (500GH) (predictor variables). The role of the DWTs, the large‐scale climatic patterns (LSCPs) known to influence rainfall variability, and the wind conditions (as an additional explanatory variable since they play an essential role in the development of these events) as heavy rainfall and flooding (predictand variables) drivers is investigated using the Wairewa catchment (Little River, Canterbury) as the study site. Heavy rainfall is represented through its temporal and spatial features, based on two rainfall datasets (a rain gauge and a gridded product obtained by the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) numerical model). Useful relationships are found between the predictor and the predictand variables. Also, the predictor variables' temporal variability (interannual and intra‐annual variability, seasonality) plays a key role, translating to the temporal variability of heavy rainfall and flooding. The proposed synoptic climatological approach provides qualitative and quantitative value, displaying the range of weather and climatic configurations leading to different types of storms and flooding and helping in their identification and understanding.
A new dynamic distribution model for Antarctic krill reveals interactions with their environment, predators, and the commercial fishery in the south Scotia Sea region
Authors: Freer Jennifer J. , Warwick‐Evans Victoria , Skaret Georg , Krafft Bjørn A. , Fielding Sophie , Trathan Philip N.
Published: February 2025

The management strategy for the Antarctic krill (Euphausia superba) fishery is being revised. A key aim is to spatially and temporally allocate catches in a manner that minimizes impacts to both the krill stock and dependent predators. This process requires spatial information on the distribution and abundance of krill, yet gaps exist for an important fishing area surrounding the South Orkney Islands in the south Scotia Sea. To fill this need, we create a dynamic distribution model for krill in this region. We used data from a spatially and temporally consistent acoustic survey (2011–2020) and year‐specific environmental covariates within a two‐part hurdle model. The model successfully captured observed spatial and temporal patterns in krill density. The covariates found to be most important included distance from shelf break, distance from summer sea ice extent, and salinity. The northern and eastern shelf edges of the South Orkney Islands were areas of consistently high krill density and displayed strong spatial overlap between intense fishing activity and foraging chinstrap penguins. High mean krill density was also linked to oceanographic features located within the Weddell Sea. Our data suggest that years in which these features were closer to the South Orkney shelf were also years of positive Southern Annular Mode and higher observed krill densities. Our findings highlight existing fishery–predator–prey overlap in the region and support the hypothesis that Weddell Sea oceanography may play a role in transporting krill into this region. These results will feed into the next phase of krill fisheries management assessment.
Pharmacological Treatment of Neuropsychiatric Symptoms in Huntington's Disease: A Systematic Review
Authors: Andriessen Ruben L. , Oosterloo Mayke , Molema Jory , Daemen Maud M.J. , Linden David E.J. , Leentjens Albert F.G.
Published: February 2025

Background

Studies focusing on the treatment of neuropsychiatric symptoms (NPS) in Huntington's disease (HD) are scarce and show a wide variation in design, outcome measures and methodological quality. The effectiveness of pharmacological treatment of NPS in HD has not been systematically reviewed so far.

Objective

To provide an overview of the available literature on the effectiveness of pharmacological treatment of NPS in HD.

Methods

PubMed and the Cochrane library were systematically searched for studies assessing the effects of pharmacotherapy of NPS, both as a primary and as secondary outcome. A risk of bias assessment was performed for each article.

Results

Fifteen articles qualified for critical evaluation: 10 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) (five placebo‐controlled and five cross‐over) and five open label studies. One RCT reported improvement of the overall NPS with nabilone treatment; another RCT reported that fluoxetine slightly improved irritability. Lower‐level evidence from open studies suggests that the atypical antipsychotics cariprazine, olanzapine and risperidone may improve overall NPS, and that cariprazine, venlafaxine XR and olanzapine may improve depression. In addition, olanzapine may improve obsessive thoughts, aggression, anxiety and irritability.

Conclusions

We conclude that although NPS in HD are common, hardly any clinical trials have addressed their treatment. As a result, convincing evidence that could guide clinical practice is lacking. More focused, and larger, multicenter trials focusing on NPS are urgently needed to generate the knowledge necessary to support the development of evidence‐based clinical treatment guidelines.
Theoretical Studies on the EPR Parameters and Local Structures for the Orthorhombic and Tetragonal Cu2+ Centers in Cu1−xHxZr2(PO4)3
Authors: Zhao Xiaojian , Liang Yan , Tian Ruizhen , Li Guijin , Zhou Xilin , Zhou Zifa , Zhang Xiaolan
Published: January 2025

The defect structures of the orthorhombical and tetragonal Cu2+ centers in Cu1−xHxZr2(PO4)3 are theoretically studied by analyzing their experimental electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) parameters, based on the perturbation formulas of these parameters for a 3d9 ion in orthorhombically and tetragonally elongated octahedra, respectively. The above centers are attributed to the Cu2+ ions locating at M(1) site, and the crystal field parameters (CFPs) are quantitatively determined from the superposition model and the local structures of the Cu2+ sites. Based on the calculation, the parallel Cu‐O bonds may undergo the relative elongations ΔZO (≈ 0.113 Å) and ΔZT (≈ 0.102 Å) for the orthorhombical and tetragonal Cu2+ centers in Cu1−xHxZr2(PO4)3 along z‐axis, respectively. Meanwhile, the planar Cu‐O bonds are found to experience the relative variation δr (≈ 0.056 Å) along the x‐ and y‐axes for the orthorhombical Cu2+ center because of the Jahn–Teller (JT) effect. The theoretical EPR parameters based on the above local structures agree well with the observed values.
Homemade formulas for nutrition support in chronic kidney disease: A narrative review of the opportunity for education, research, and innovation
Authors: Kistler Brandon M. , Biruete Annabel , Wong Michelle M. Y. , Wang Angela Yee‐Moon , Martin‐del‐Campo Fabiola , Nerbass Fabiana B. , Hardy Anna , Zhu Qiwei , Khor Ban‐Hock , Vincent Lloyd , Ebrahim Zarina , Figueiredo Ana
Published: February 2025

Protein‐energy wasting is common in people with chronic kidney disease (CKD), especially in those undergoing kidney replacement therapy. Oral nutrition supplements and enteral nutrition are strategies that have been shown to improve nutrition status, and potentially outcomes. However, access to specialized commercial products for people with CKD is limited by factors including cost and regional availability. Homemade formulas represent a potentially cheaper, accessible, and more flexible option than commercial products, but they come with their own unique set of challenges. Furthermore, some aspects of homemade products, including consistency of nutrients, physical properties, and food safety, may pose challenges in the context of physiological changes that occur in CKD. Despite evidence of their use in CKD clinics, there have been few studies using homemade formulas in this population. This narrative review article summarizes the available literature on the potential usage, benefits, and concerns related to homemade formulas, emphasizing the unique challenges in people with CKD. Given the potential usage and limited research on homemade formulas in people with CKD, additional education and research are warranted to optimize the use of these tools in this clinical population.
Mitigating BGP Route Leaks With Attributes and Communities: A Stopgap Solution for Path Plausibility
Authors: Höger Nils , Rodday Nils , Dreo Rodosek Gabi
Published: January 2025

The Border Gateway Protocol (BGP) is known to have serious security vulnerabilities. One of these vulnerabilities is BGP route leaks. A BGP route leak describes the propagation of route announcements beyond their intended scope, violating the Gao‐Rexford model. Route leaks may lead to traffic misdirection, causing performance issues and potential security risks, often due to mistakes and misconfiguration. Several potential solutions have been published and are currently greatly discussed within the Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF) but have yet to be widely implemented. One approach is the Autonomous System Provider Authorization (ASPA). In addition to these new approaches, there are also efforts to use existing BGP functionalities to detect and prevent route leaks. In this paper, we implement the Down Only (DO) Community and Only to Customer (OTC) Attribute approaches, using them isolated and in conjunction with ASPA. Our research indicates that implementing a DO/OTC deployment strategy focusing on well‐interconnected ASes could significantly reduce route leaks. Specifically, we observed mitigation of over 98% of all route leaks when DO and OTC were deployed by the top 5% of the most connected ASes. We show that combining DO/OTC and ASPA can greatly enhance ASPA's route leak prevention capabilities.
Cooperative Adaptive Consensus Tracking Control for Multiple Wheeled Mobile Robot Systems With Model Uncertainties and External Disturbances
Authors: Sha Hongsheng , Guo Rong‐Wei , Zhu Xiaojin , Miao Zhonghua
Published: January 2025

This paper presents a novel robust consensus control method for multiple nonholonomic wheeled mobile robots (MNWMRs). The method involves developing a dynamic sliding mode tracker based on the Average Dwell Time (ADT) technique, which tracks the velocity state onto the kinematic auxiliary vector through torque control. While the communication topologies are randomly switched to achieve consensus control of virtual trajectories by the controlled robots. Furthermore, considering the influence of strong external disturbances and nonlinear dynamic uncertainties in the system, two control methods, Uncertainty and Disturbance Estimator (UDE) and Radial Basis Function Neural Network (RBF NN), are combined. The former is used to ensure the robustness of the closed‐loop system, and the latter improves its adaptability accordingly. Moreover, a new filter is developed for sinusoidal external disturbances with measurable angular frequency, leading to the asymptotic convergence of disturbance error towards the origin. Then, the stability analysis of the corresponding closed‐loop control systems is then performed by the use of Lyapunov analysis. Finally, the simulation examples are provided to verify the effectiveness of the designed control strategy.
3D‐Printed High‐Entropy Alloy Nanoarchitectures
Authors: Ai Jingui , Liu Shirong , Zhang Yueqi , Han Yaochen , Liu Bingyan , Yin Yuxiang , Ma Houyu , Feng Jicheng
Published: February 2025

System miniaturization is a key driver in developing nanoelectromechanical systems, sensors, and microchips. To enhance reliability and extend operational lifetimes, high‐entropy alloys (HEAs) have emerged as promising materials due to their exceptional mechanical robustness and thermal stability. These advantageous properties are predominantly demonstrated in bulk HEA forms; however, research on small‐dimensional HEAs is largely confined to nanoparticles, nanopillars, and thin films, limiting their broader applications in nanodevice systems. This study introduces nanoarchitectured HEAs that exhibit remarkable mechanical and thermal properties. Using a custom‐designed 3D nanoprinter, HEA nanoparticles are printed in situ into complex nanoarchitectures, enabling flexible elemental combinations and freeform 3D geometries. Structural dimensions and grain size are precisely controlled as design parameters to synergistically leverage the benefits of alloying, size scaling, and architectural design. The resulting 3D‐printed HEA nanoarchitectures demonstrate ultrahigh strength (≈4 GPa), outstanding toughness, and exceptional thermal stability. These properties position nano‐architectured HEAs as a novel class of materials suitable for high‐stress, high‐toughness applications in small‐dimensional devices. By combining the versatility of 3D nanoprinting with the expansive alloy design space of HEAs, this approach paves the way for their potential integration into future nanodevices.
Deprotonation‐Constructed Instant Gelation Coating for Staphylococcus Disinfection and Preservation of Fresh Food in Multiple Scenarios
Authors: Guan Wei , Liu Xiangmei , Zhu Shengli , Li Zhaoyang , Jiang Hui , Cui Zhenduo , Zheng Yufeng , Wu Shuilin
Published: January 2025

The ancient proverb “disease enters through the mouth” elucidates the connection between food and pathogens, underscoring the pivotal role of food preservation in preventing foodborne diseases. Drawing inspiration from ancient food preservation techniques such as waxing and the use of spices, a novel approach combining the deprotonation‐induced solid–liquid phase separation of natural polymer solutions with the solubilization of plant–derived antibacterial compounds has been developed. The “two‐step soaking” construction strategy enables the creation of biodegradable and adaptable for hydrogel coatings with micro‐scale thickness. These multifunctional coatings can be applied to the surfaces of fresh fruits, vegetables, and meats in 35 s, providing both moisture retention and antioxidant protection. The coating's versatility allows for the targeted can achieve the elimination of various Staphylococcus and other bacterial strains through the selection of bactericides with differing antibacterial mechanisms. The scalability of this approach offers significant potential for broad applications in sterilization and food preservation in across diverse contexts.
Sequential Design for Quantile Estimation in Multifactor Sensitivity Experiments
Authors: Bai Tian , Wang Dianpeng , Chen Kuangqi , Tian Yubin
Published: February 2025

Cavitation in hydrofoil experiments is a critical physical phenomenon, which is primarily influenced by three key factors. Efficiently identifying the combination of factor levels at which cavitation occurs with 50% probability presents a significant challenge in sensitivity testing, particularly when constrained by the high cost of hydrofoil experiments. Despite its importance, sensitivity experiments with multiple factors have received scant attention in literature. In order to tackle this challenge, we propose a novel sequential design based on the upper credible bound criterion for the generalised Gaussian process models, which is used to model the hydrofoil experimental data. Some numerical simulation studies demonstrate that the proposed method effectively balances exploitation and exploration, achieving superior performance compared to existing approaches. Finally, a practical application to hydrofoil cavitation experiments validates the superiority of the proposed method.
Exploring Smart Life
Authors: Kornyshova Elena , Deneckère Rébecca , Benramdane Kamal Mustapha , Brinkkemper Sjaak
Published: February 2025

In the contemporary landscape of technological advancement, the concept of Smart Life has emerged as a multifaceted domain, encapsulating a myriad of interconnected elements that deeply influence our daily experience. A lot of research works are published on this topic each month, and new devices continue to appear. However, after examining the existing literature, we found out the need for a consistent definition of Smart Life. This chapter addresses this limitation by providing a more precise definition of the Smart Life concept. We present various terms related to “Smart,” characterize in detail the concept of Smart Life, present a systemic view on this topic, and, finally, introduce the basic elements for Smart Life governance.
ADR for Consumer Disputes in the Consumer Protection Legislation of North Macedonia
Authors: Zdraveva Neda
Published: January 2025

Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) is a mechanism that allows consumers and traders to resolve disputes efficiently and effectively. The European Union (EU) has a comprehensive framework for ADR, which is currently under revision. This revision aims to adapt the ADR framework to digital markets, enhance access to ADR in cross-border disputes through digital tools, and streamline ADR procedures. The Directive on Consumer ADR encompasses all categories of disputes pertaining to EU consumer rights and encourages traders to increase their participation in ADR claims through the duty to respond. In North Macedonia, a new Consumer Protection Law, transposing various EU directives related to consumer protection, came into effect in 2022. This law contributes to establishing a legal framework that ensures a higher level of consumer rights protection. It also provides mechanisms for swiftly resolving disputes between traders and consumers. The law favours alternative dispute resolution mechanisms, but the legal framework for ADR in consumer disputes is yet to be fully established. In summary, both the EU and North Macedonia have robust frameworks for consumer protection. These frameworks aim to safeguard consumer rights, ensure fair trade practices, and provide effective mechanisms for dispute resolution. As the EU legislation and practices in this field are evolving and improving, policymakers and enforcement agencies in North Macedonia are yet to catch up and provide an environment conducive to ADR for consumer disputes.
A Note on the Historiography of Pre-modern Connexive Logic
Authors: Wansing Heinrich , Omori Hitoshi
Published: February 2025

The historiography of connexive logic has seen some pitfalls. In the present note, we show that the reception of principles characteristic of connexive logic provides an example of how an unwarranted bias in favor of what is now called ‘classical logic’ and an often accompanying aversion against contradictions can negatively affect the historiography of logic. Moreover, we briefly outline the coverage of the present volume 60 Years of Connexive Logic.
Ten Open Problems in Connexive Logic
Authors: Omori Hitoshi , Wansing Heinrich
Published: February 2025

In this short note, which is the final chapter of the volume 60 Years of Connexive Logic, we list ten open problems. Some of these problems are technical and precisely stated, while others are less technical and even speculative. We hope that the list inspires some readers to contribute to the field by tackling one or many of the problems.
Lorentz violation alleviates gravitationally induced entanglement degradation
Authors: Liu Wentao , Wen Cuihong , Wang Jieci
Published: February 2025

Abstract

Lorentz violation is a significant phenomenon in the framework of quantum physics, with implications for fundamental symmetries. In this paper, we explore the effects of Lorentz violation on quantum entanglement through a black hole spacetime that is coupled with a Lorentz-violating field. We establish the relationship between the Hartle-Hawking vacuum state and the Boulware number states for this case, and employ the near horizon approximation in an appropriate form to rewrite the black hole metric into a Rindler-like form. Subsequently, using this revised metric, the analytical forms of logarithmic negativity and mutual information are derived and plotted as functions of Rob’s distance from the r = 0 point. Based on the results, we find that the coupling between spacetime and the Lorentz-violating vector field alleviates gravity-induced entanglement degradation. At high mode frequencies, the effects of Lorentz violation are negligible, but they become significant at low frequencies. This suggests that investigating Lorentz violation at astrophysical scales requires low-frequency detectors, as the low energy of these fields enhances the significance of the Lorentz-violating field’s non-zero vacuum expectation value.
Non-holomorphic modular S4 lepton flavour models
Authors: Ding Gui-Jun , Lu Jun-Nan , Petcov S.T. , Qu Bu-Yao
Published: February 2025

Abstract

In the formalism of the non-supersymmetric modular invariance approach to the flavour problem the elements of the Yukawa coupling and fermion mass matrices are expressed in terms of polyharmonic Maaß modular forms of level N in addition to the standard modula forms of the same level and a small number of constant parameters. Non-trivial polyharmonic Maaß forms exist for zero, negative and positive integer modular weights. Employing the finite modula group S
4 as a flavour symmetry group and assuming that the three left-handed lepton doublets furnish a triplet irreducible representation of S
4, we construct all possible 7- and 8-parameter lepton flavour models in which the neutrino masses are generated either by the Weinberg effective operator or by the type-I seesaw mechanism. We identify the phenomenologically viable models and obtain predictions for each of these models for the neutrino mass ordering, the absolute neutrino mass scale, the Dirac and Majorana CP-violation phases and, correspondingly, for the sum of neutrino masses and the neutrinoless double beta decay effective Majorana mass. We comment on how these models can be tested and conclude that they are all falsifiable. Detailed analyses are presented in the case of three representative benchmark lepton flavour scenarios.
A family affair? Long-term economic and mental health effects of spousal cancer
Authors: Böckerman Petri , Kortelainen Mika , Salokangas Henri , Vaalavuo Maria
Published: February 2025

Research on the family spillover effects of health shocks, which has focused mainly on labor market outcomes, has yielded inconclusive results, with limited insight into long-term consequences or underlying mechanisms. We analyze the short- and long-term impacts of cancer on the unaffected spouse’s labor supply and mental health as well as marital stability, considering gender and relative income status within the households. Using population-based register data from Finland (1995–2019) and a dynamic difference-in-differences design, we observe two key findings. First, a cancer diagnosis leads to very modest changes in a spouse’s labor supply but significant increases in the likelihood of psychotropic drug use and psychiatric outpatient visits. Second, the main results mask considerable heterogeneity regarding relative income within the household. Secondary earners increase their labor supply in response to fatal cancers but decrease it in non-fatal cases, while breadwinners show small negative responses in both. Bereaved women with lower income share experience more psychiatric symptoms, a trend not observed in men. Our findings reveal the importance of pre-shock breadwinner status in family responses to health shocks, suggesting the need for targeted support for caregiving and bereaved spouses.
Tat_BioV: tattoo ink exposure and biokinetics of selected tracers in a short-term clinical study of 24 subjects
Authors: Kochs Susanne , Schiewe Sandra , Foerster Milena , Hillmann Kathrin , Blankenstein Claudia , Meinke Martina C. , Kugler Josephine , Kocovic David , Luch Andreas , Blume-Peytavi Ulrike , Schreiver Ines
Published: January 2025

About one-fifth of people in industrialised countries are tattooed, potentially putting them at risk of exposure to possible carcinogenic or otherwise harmful substances. This study aims to determine the exposure to soluble tattoo ink ingredients and their excretion within 24 h after tattooing. In this clinical study, 24 subjects were tattooed with black or red tattoo ink to which the 3 tracer substances, potassium iodide, 4-aminobenzoic acid (PABA) and 2-phenoxyethanol (PEtOH), had been added to mimic known substances found in tattoo inks. Tracers and their metabolites were quantified in blood, urine, ink and consumables pre- and post-tattooing. Tattooed skin area was determined using picture analysis. PABA metabolism upon tattooing was compared to peroral administration. Skin fibroblasts and macrophages were tested in vitro for their ability to metabolise PABA. All tracers or their metabolites were identified in urine; iodide and the PABA metabolite 4-acetamidobenzoic acid (ACD) were identified in plasma. The worst-case scenario for systemic ink exposure was estimated to be 0.31 g ink per tattoo session (75th percentile). Peroral administration resulted in lower levels of ACD than tattooing. Fibroblasts and macrophages were capable of converting PABA into ACD. Our results are the first human in vivo data on soluble tattoo ink ingredients and suggest that the overall exposure might be lower than the estimates previously used for regulatory purposes. In addition, the first-pass effect by skin metabolism leads to an altered metabolite profile compared to oral exposure. Skin metabolism might also contribute to detoxification of certain carcinogenic substances through N-acetylation.
Influence of cognitive demand and auditory noise on postural dynamics
Authors: Carey Sam , Balasubramaniam Ramesh
Published: February 2025

The control of human balance involves an interaction between the human motor, cognitive, and sensory systems. The dynamics of this interaction are yet to be fully understood, however, work has shown the performance of cognitive tasks to have a hampering effect on motor performance, while additive sensory noise to have a beneficial effect. The current study aims to examine whether postural control will be impacted by a concurrent working memory task, and similarly, if additive noise can counteract the expected negative influence of the added cognitive demand. Postural sway of healthy young adults was collected during the performance of a modified N-back task with varying difficulty, in the presence and absence of auditory noise. Our results show a reduction in postural stability scaled to the difficulty of the cognitive task, but this effect is less prominent in the presence of additive noise. Additionally, by separating postural sway into different frequency bands, typically used to assess the exploratory vs feedback-driven stabilizing dynamics of sway, we found a differential effect between the cognitive task and additive noise, thus demonstrating that both frequency regimes of postural sway are sensitive to high cognitive load and increased sensory information.
Slide laryngotracheopexy for idiopathic subglottic stenosis
Authors: Tóbiás Zoltán , Bach Ádám , Szakács László , Csanády Miklós , Ambrus Andrea , Rovó László
Published: February 2025

Objectives

Idiopathic subglottic stenosis (iSGS) is a rare fibroinflammatory disorder characterized by scar tissue formation in the subglottic and tracheal regions. This study evaluated the long-term outcomes of a novel, single-step surgical technique that redefines the glottic and subglottic airway using local tracheal grafts.

Methods

Thirteen patients (2 male and 11 female) diagnosed with iSGS who underwent slide laryngotracheopexy were enrolled in this study. The diagnosis of iSGS was confirmed through endoscopic assessment, CT scanning, and autoimmune blood testing. Patients completed post-operative Voice Handicap Index (VHI), Quality of Life (QoL), and MD Anderson Dysphagia Inventory (MDADI) questionnaires, and spirometry assessments were conducted.

Results

All patients were successfully extubated in the operating room following surgery. None of the patients required intensive care unit treatment. The average hospital stay was 14 days. A temporary tracheotomy was needed in one case because of excessive crusting. Adjuvant endolaryngeal laser surgery was performed in three cases. In one case, mitomycin-C therapy was administered to treat granulation. Post-operative quality of life (QoL) assessment, peak inspiratory flow (PIF), and scores from the MDADI and VHI questionnaires were 9.0 (± 2.2), 2.8 l/s (± 0.83), 95.6 (± 4.3), and 18.7 (± 13.4), respectively.

Conclusion

Slide laryngotracheopexy was a safe and dependable technique for cases classified as Cotton-Myers II-IV grade iSGS. The use of a tracheal flap was advantageous to ensure optimal mucosal function. Slide laryngotracheopexy may be employed following multiple endolaryngeal interventions, whereas adjuvant CO2 laser surgery or mitomycin-c therapy may be considered in cases involving granulation tissue formation.

Level of evidence

4.

Study Design

Retrospective case series review.
Hippocampal dysfunction after autoimmune encephalitis depending on the antibody type
Authors: Hänsel Martin , Reichmann Heinz , Haehner Antje , Schmitz-Peiffer Henning , Schneider Hauke
Published: February 2025

Background

Comprehensive neurocognitive function analyses of autoimmune encephalitis (AE) patients, especially long-term ones, are rare. This study aims to measure cognitive function in patients diagnosed with AE.

Methods

This case–control study included AE patients (n = 11) with antibodies against NMDA receptor (NMDAR) (n = 4), VGKC (n = 3), GAD (3), and one antibody-negative patient. The control group contained 12 pneumococcal meningo-encephalitis patients (PC). Subgroup analyses compared AE patients with and without NMDAR antibodies. Neurocognitive tests were performed to evaluate verbal and visual memory, face recognition, attentional capacity, incidental learning capacity, and overall cognitive function (Montreal cognitive assessment, MoCA). Limbic structural involvement was assessed through magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Statistical analyses investigated correlations between antibody status, results of neurocognitive tests, and MRI findings.

Results

Follow-up (AE vs. PC) was 33 (11–95) vs. 96 (26–132) months after diagnosis. Neurocognitive functions were normal in both AE and PC groups in all tests except face recognition, which was pathological in both groups. The overall/recognition/long-delay visual memory (p = 0.009/0.008/0.005) and incidental learning (p = 0.017) scores were significantly higher in NMDAR patients compared to non-NMDAR patients. Non-NMDAR patients with right-sided limbic MRI pathologies had significantly lower overall/recognition/long-delay visual memory (p = 0.006/0.044/0.024) and incidental learning (p = 0.009) scores compared to NMDAR patients.

Conclusions

We observed mainly normal neurocognitive functions after autoimmune and bacterial encephalitis. However, compared to NMDAR patients, patients with non-NMDAR autoimmune encephalitis showed a significant and material-specific association between a right-sided hippocampal lesion and limitations in figural-mnestic and incidental learning capacities. Neurocognitive functions in AE patients should be further evaluated prospectively and in more detail.
Serum chitotriosidase-1 (CHIT1) as candidate biomarker for mitochondriopathies
Authors: Foerster Laura , Scholle Leila , Mayer Tobias , Schneider Ilka , Stoltenburg-Didinger Gisela , Delank Karl-Stefan , Kraya Torsten , Hahn Andreas , Strube David , Koelsch Anna Katharina , Naegel Steffen , Barba Lorenzo , Volk Alexander E. , Otto Markus , Mensch Alexander
Published: February 2025

Background

Neuromuscular diseases (NMDs) and mitochondriopathies are rare and heterogeneous disorders. Diagnosis is often difficult and delayed, partly due to the lack of reliable biomarkers. Chitotriosidase (CHIT1) as a candidate marker for lysosomal storage diseases is elevated in Niemann pick disease type C as a prototype of this group of diseases. Most recently, a relevant role of the lysosomal pathway in mitochondriopathies has been discussed, but markers of lysosomal involvement have not been investigated. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate CHIT1 concentrations in a broad spectrum of NMDs and mitochondriopathies.

Methods

CHIT1 serum concentration of 151 patients with NMD or primary mitochondriopathy was determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and compared to 38 healthy controls and 8 patients with Niemann pick disease type C. Results were controlled for age, sex, CRP and CHIT1 polymorphism, and compared to several established markers (CK, FGF21, GDF15).

Results

CHIT1 levels were not altered in NMDs, but significantly increased in mitochondriopathies, within the range of Niemann-Pick patients. Compared to the established biomarkers, CHIT1 and FGF21 showed a similar diagnostic performance, while better results were found for GDF15. However, there was a tendency for higher CHIT1 concentrations in patients with central nervous system involvement (MELAS syndrome), while FGF21 and GDF15 were not relevantly altered in these patients. Consequently, a combination of biomarkers including CHIT1 provided the best overall diagnostic performance.

Conclusions

Serum CHIT1 concentration is significantly elevated in mitochondriopathies compared to healthy controls and other NMD, identifying CHIT1 as potential complementary biomarker in mitochondriopathies.
Shifting perspectives: an investigation of a virtual reality awe experience in people going through cancer treatment
Authors: Tao V. , Tennant G. , Clayden C. , Reynolds Lisa M.
Published: February 2025

Purpose

Evoking awe using virtual reality appears to be a promising intervention that has potential to positively impact physical and psychological well-being. The purpose of this exploratory study was to investigate the acceptability and potential benefits of a VR experience of awe for patients undergoing cancer treatment.

Methods

Twenty cancer patients viewed a 5-min VR nature experience designed to induce awe and completed questionnaires assessing anxiety, symptom distress, spirituality, and connectedness to nature. Qualitative interviews assessed acceptability and ways to improve the intervention.

Results

The VR experience effectively induced awe. Following the experience, participants reported decreased anxiety and symptom distress and increased feelings of spirituality and connectedness to nature. Participants enjoyed the experience and said they would use it again and would recommend it to others.

Conclusion

VR nature interventions that induce awe are worthy of future investigation as a psychological approach to support cancer patients undergoing treatment.
Isoperistaltic hand-sewn side-to-side bowel primary anastomosis: a safe approach after bowel resection in children with neutropenic enterocolitis
Authors: Taher Mohammad , Elshafiey Maged , Refaat Ahmed , Nasr Eman , Ahmed Gehad
Published: February 2025

Background and aim

Whether to perform primary anastomosis (PA) or create a stoma after bowel resection has always been a dilemma in pediatric cancer patients with neutropenic enterocolitis (NEC). The risk of leakage after PA must be weighed against the risk of stoma complications. We evaluated the outcomes of managing NEC patients with either PA or stoma and the utility of the isoperistaltic hand-sewn side-to-side anastomosis (ISSA) technique in PA.

Patients and methods

A retrospective study on all Children's Cancer Hospital Egypt patients with NEC who underwent surgical exploration at our hospital from 2008 to 2022.

Results

Of 153 children, 80 (52.3%) underwent PA and 73 (47.7%) underwent stoma formation. Among the 80 PA patients, 68 (85%) underwent ISSA, 9 (11.2%) end-to-end anastomosis (EEA), and 3 (3.8%) end-to-side anastomosis (ESA). The perioperative complication rate was 38/73 (52.1%) in the stoma patients and 35/80 (43.8%) in the PA patients. Leakage occurred in 6/68 (8.8%) ISSA patients, 5/9 (55.6%) EEA patients, and 1/3 (33.3%) of ESA patients.

Conclusions

In pediatric cancer patients with NEC, PA using ISSA after bowel resection is considered a better approach than any other anastomotic configuration.
Hydrazine imprinted electrochemical sensor based on cobalt-barium stannate nanoparticles incorporated-functionalized MWCNTs nanocomposite for hydrazine determination in tap water samples
Authors: Gül Fatma Hazan , Deveci Hacı Ahmet , Deveci Ayla , Akyıldırım Onur , Yola Mehmet Lütfi
Published: February 2025

A hydrazine (HYD) detection method is presented based on molecularly imprinting polymers (MIPs) and cobalt-barium stannate nanoparticles incorporated-functionalized MWCNTs (CBSNPs/f-MWCNTs) nanocomposite. Firstly, co-precipitation and sonication techniques were applied to the preparations of CBSNPs and CBSNPs/f-MWCNTs nanocomposite, respectively. Since waste generation occurs at a minimum level in these techniques, an environmentally friendly nanocomposite was prepared. After the glassy carbon electrode modification with CBSNPs and CBSNPs/f-MWCNTs nanocomposite, HYD imprinted electrodes were fabricated using cyclic voltammetry (CV) with a dispersion containing 100.0 mM pyrrole (Py) monomer and 25.0 mM HYD molecule. The resulting electrochemical sensor demonstrated a detection span of 1.0 × 10−9 M to 1.0 × 10−8 M HYD and achieved a detection limit (LOD) of 3.0 × 10−10 M. Furthermore, the developed electrochemical sensor was used for actual tap water samples, and the obtained values close to 100.00% in recovery experiments showed the high accuracy of the developed sensor in real sample analysis. Finally, the selectivity, stability, and reproducibility of the created electrochemical sensor were investigated, and the developed sensor has been demonstrated to have high stability for at least 7 weeks, high reproducibility with a relative standard deviation (RSD) value of 0.14%, and high selectivity in real samples.

Graphical Abstract
Rebamipide for management of methotrexate-induced oral ulcers: a three-arm randomized clinical trial
Authors: Abdelaziz Amira , Shamma Rehab Nabil , Fayed Hala Lotfy , Ali Shereen
Published: February 2025

Objectives

This RCT aimed to evaluate the effect of topical Rebamipide (regular and nanoparticulated) in comparison to topical Clobetasol propionate in the management of methotrexate-induced oral ulcers in rheumatoid arthritis patients.

Materials and methods

Patients were divided randomly into three parallel arms: 1% Rebamipide; 1% nanoparticulated Rebamipide, Clobetasol propionate. The outcome measures included WHO oral mucositis grading, pain (NRS), ulcer size, and healing time. The data was analyzed for any statistical significance.

Results

Intragroup comparisons of mucositis grade improvement and pain reduction revealed significant differences in all the groups. All intergroup comparisons demonstrated non-significant difference, yet nanoparticulated Rebamipide was leading, and all group participants achieved complete healing earlier than the other groups.

Conclusion

Rebamipide, regular and nanoparticulated forms, showed comparable results to potent Corticosteroid, Clobetasol propionate in management of the oral ulcers.

Clinical relevance

Rebamipide is an efficient promising alternative modality for management of methotrexate-induced oral ulcers in rheumatoid arthritis patients.