bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Anterior Controllable Antedisplacement Fusion (ACAF) in Revision Surgery for Iatrogenic Cervical Kyphosis: Technical Note and Case Series
Authors: Liu Zhenlei , Wang Yaobin , Zhang Lei , Jia Shanhang , Wang He , Cheng Lei , Jian Fengzeng , Wang Kai , Wu Hao
Published: January 2025

Background

Iatrogenic cervical kyphosis (ICK) often requires complex anterior and posterior correction, which is associated with multiple complications. Consequently, there is a need to investigate alternative treatment approaches that streamline the operative process and markedly diminish postoperative complications. This study, therefore, aimed to evaluate the feasibility and efficacy of a single‐stage anterior controllable antedisplacement fusion (ACAF) in revision surgeries for ICK.

Methods

A retrospective review was conducted on three ICK cases treated with the ACAF technique in our department from December 2023 to January 2024. The cohort comprised two females and one male. The medical records, symptoms, signs, imaging studies, and 3‐month postoperative follow‐up data were analyzed to preliminarily evaluate the surgery's feasibility and efficacy.

Results

The mean operative time was 222.0 ± 67.5 min, with an average blood loss of 83.3 ± 28.9 mL and an average hospital stay of 11.7 ± 2.9 days. No patient experienced severe complications, such as neurological damage, during surgery. Postoperatively, two patients experienced transient respiratory distress within 2–5 days, managed with low‐dose methylprednisolone (80 mg daily) and supplemental oxygen via nasal cannula. At the 3‐month follow‐up, all patients showed significant symptom improvement and increased cervical Japanese Orthopedic Association scores. Radiographic assessments, including X‐rays and computed tomography scans, demonstrated marked improvements in cervical curvature without evidence of screw loosening. Magnetic resonance imaging indicated significant dural sac expansion and alleviation of spinal cord compression.

Conclusion

The ACAF technique effectively corrects ICK, offering advantages such as reduced intraoperative blood loss, fewer complications, and shorter operative and hospitalization times compared to traditional combined anterior–posterior corrective approaches. It presents an effective alternative for surgeons performing revision corrective surgery for ICK.
Social Network Analysis of Self‐Management Behavior Among Older Adults With Diabetes
Authors: Ko Geumbo , Song Youngshin
Published: January 2025

Objective

This study explores the influence of social network structures on self‐management behaviors among older adults with diabetes in rural Korean villages, focusing on dietary management, physical activity, and blood glucose monitoring.

Design

Employing social network analysis (SNA), the study assessed network structures in three villages, focusing on variations in degree, closeness, and betweenness centralities to understand their impact on health behavior dissemination and adoption.

Results

The analysis identified significant differences in network configurations across the villages. Village C, characterized by the highest closeness centrality, facilitated the efficient diffusion of health‐related information, thereby promoting the rapid adoption of self‐management behaviors. In contrast, Village B exhibited a prominent central node with considerable influence, underscoring its potential as a strategic focal point for targeted health interventions.

Conclusion

Social network analysis is useful for identifying influential nodes within community structures to enhance chronic disease management strategies. By tailoring interventions to the unique attributes of a community's network, significant improvements in diabetes self‐care efficacy can be achieved. This approach presents a scalable and sustainable framework for community‐oriented health interventions. It provides a foundation for further research into the structural and functional dynamics of diabetes self‐management networks.
Biofeedback control of photosynthetic lighting using real‐time monitoring of leaf chlorophyll fluorescence
Authors: Nam Suyun , van Iersel Marc W. , Ferrarezi Rhuanito Soranz
Published: January 2025

Optimizing photosynthetic lighting is essential for maximizing crop production and minimizing electricity costs in controlled environment agriculture (CEA). Traditional lighting methods often neglect the impact of environmental factors, crop type, and light acclimation on photosynthetic efficiency. To address this, a chlorophyll fluorescence‐based biofeedback system was developed to adjust light‐emitting diode (LED) intensity based on real‐time plant responses, rather than using a fixed photosynthetic photon flux density (PPFD). This study used the biofeedback system to maintain a range of target quantum yield of photosystem II (ΦPSII) and electron transport rate (ETR) values and to examine if the adjustment logic (ΦPSII or ETR‐based) and crop type influence LED light intensity. The system was tested in a growth chamber with lettuce (Lactuca sativa) ‘Green Towers’ and cucumber (Cucumis sativus) ‘Diva’ to maintain six ETR levels (30, 50, 70, 90, 110, 130 μmol·m−2·s−1) and five ΦPSII levels (0.65, 0.675, 0.7, 0.725, 0.75) during a 16‐hour photoperiod. The ETR‐based biofeedback quickly stabilized the target ETR within 30–45 minutes, whereas the ΦPSII‐based system needed more time. The system adjusted light intensities according to target values, acclimation status, and crop‐specific responses. For example, to maintain a target ETR of 130 μmol·m−2·s−1, the gradual increase in ΦPSII over time due to light acclimation allowed the required PPFD to decrease by 35 μmol·m−2·s−1. Lettuce showed higher photosynthetic efficiency and lower heat dissipation than cucumber, leading to higher PPFD adjustments for lettuce. This biofeedback system effectively controls LED light, optimizing photosynthetic efficiency and potentially reducing lighting costs.
Factors associated with grief in family carers of people with dementia in Japan: a systematic review
Authors: Morimoto Hiroshi , Fukudome Takanori , Tajima Akiko , Noguchi Dai
Published: January 2025

Background

The purpose of this study was to systematically review the existing literature on grief in family carers of people with dementia in Japan and to synthesise the evidence on the prevalence and associated factors of pre‐ and post‐death grief of the carers.

Methods

CiNii Research, J‐STAGE, and ICHUSHI were searched for studies published in Japanese and MEDLINE, PsycINFO, and CINAHL for studies written in English up to 30 November, 2023.

Results

Of the 315 references identified, eight studies that met the eligibility criteria were included: six studies investigated pre‐death grief, and two studies investigated post‐death grief. One low‐quality study reported the prevalence of pre‐death grief (28.6%), and no studies reported the prevalence of complicated grief as post‐death grief. Less social support and greater levels of depressive symptoms and caregiving burden were associated with greater levels of pre‐death grief, while no studies reported significant factors associated with complicated grief. Most of the studies had small sample sizes and poor study quality.

Conclusions

Limited evidence makes it difficult to draw conclusions about the prevalence of pre−/post‐death grief and associated factors among family carers of people with dementia in Japan. Future studies focusing on grief using validated measures are needed.
Expressed emotion mediates the association between caregiver relationship closeness and psychological symptoms in people with dementia
Authors: Liu Xiaoji , Mo Wenping , Kanaya Reiko , Shigenobu Kazue , Takiue Keigo , Koujiya Eriko , Takeya Yasushi , Yamakawa Miyae
Published: January 2025

Aim

This study examines whether expressed emotion (EE) mediates the association between caregiver relationship closeness and behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD).

Methods

We recruited 64 families with dementia in Osaka and collected data for 3 months. Caregiver–patient relationship closeness was assessed using the Relationship Closeness Scale (RCS), and BPSD was measured with the Neuropsychiatric Inventory Questionnaire (NPI‐Q). EE was evaluated using the Family Attitude Scale (FAS).

Results

The results indicated significant correlations between EE, relationship closeness, and BPSD, showing that higher caregiver intimacy levels were associated with lower aggression in dementia people. Mediation analysis revealed that EE significantly and mainly mediated the relationship between RCS and BPSD.

Conclusions

The findings underscore the importance of interventions focused on improving caregiver–patient relationships and managing caregiver emotional expressions to mitigate BPSD. These insights are valuable for developing targeted support programs for dementia care.
Response of incubated cyanobacterial biocrust on biomineralized soil to trampling disturbance and watering frequency
Authors: Kimura Keiichi , Okuro Toshiya
Published: January 2025

Biocrust has many ecological roles and the potential for land restoration. Major obstacles to biocrust inoculation in degraded areas are the low physical stability of soil and the frequent wet–dry cycle. Microbially induced carbonate precipitation (MICP) technology, a sand fixation technique, can increase soil stability and decrease soil evaporation. However, it is unclear what the ecological influence of MICP treatment is under the harsh environmental stress. We hypothesized that MICP‐treated soil could support biocrust establishment by moderating soil disturbance and improving water retention to mitigate frequent wet–dry cycles. To verify this hypothesis, we prepared cyanobacterial biocrusts (Oscillatoria tenuis) on bare soil and on MICP‐treated soil (Sporosarcina pasteurii) and cultivated them for 40 days under high‐ and low‐frequency rainfall. We also simulated disturbance at zero, half, or equal (0, 75, and 150 kJ) the intensity of field conditions during the cultivation. Generalized linear modeling revealed that cyanobacterial biocrust with MICP treatment had high wind erosion resistance but had low indicators of biocrust growth. We also found that MICP treatment facilitated the reduction in chlorophyll content by frequent rainfall and that MICP treatment and physical disturbance had no clear interacting effects on biocrust properties. In summary, our study found MICP treatment could hinder rather than support the cyanobacterial biocrust establishment under the frequent watering and heavy disturbance. Our finding suggests that the appropriate combination of rehabilitation techniques depends on the environmental characteristics of the target area.
The use of crassulacean acid metabolism (CAM) plant extracts for the removal of copper from contaminated soils: A sustainable soil washing alternative
Authors: Al‐Alam Josephine , Wazne Mahmoud
Published: January 2025

Extensive research to date has focused on the remediation of heavy metal‐contaminated soils by various soil washing techniques. Many of the most effective techniques, however, rely on inorganic acids and/or chelating agents that can result in the deterioration of soil quality and other secondary environmental impacts. In this paper, a new environmentally friendly method for heavy metal‐contaminated soil remediation, based on the invasive Opuntia ficus‐indica (L.) Mill. is evaluated. The method involves the use of extracts prepared from O. ficus indica cladodes, harvested at phases I (Night) and III (Day) of the plant's photosynthetic cycle, as a soil washing agent. These green extracts were evaluated for the removal of copper (Cu) from three different soils including kaolinite, montmorillonite and a field‐natural soil sample. Results indicated that undiluted night phase extracts yielded the greatest Cu removal rates in all three soils with an optimal washing duration of 24 h. Copper removal rates ranged from 56% to 85% and were significantly impacted by the intrinsic properties of the soils, the leachate dosage, the plant harvest phase, the number of washing cycles and the soil washing duration. The chemical characterization of the leachates indicated that the organic acids present in the O. ficus indica extracts as well as other functional groups are key players in the removal process. The obtained results demonstrated the potential of this plant extract for a sustainable abatement of heavy metal‐contaminated soil.
Unlocking Tribological Performance of Silver-Infused Cu-Al2O3 Self-Lubricating Cermet
Authors: Antony Jose Subin , Kasar Ashish K. , Stanford Malcolm , Menezes Pradeep L.
Published: January 2025

This study investigates the tribological properties of cold-sprayed (CS) coatings comprising Cu, Cu-Al2O3, and Cu-Al2O3-Ag at room-temperature and under high-temperature sliding conditions. The composite coatings feedstock maintained a constant 50 vol% Al2O3 concentration, while Cu-Al2O3-Ag had Ag infused at 5 and 10 vol%, maintaining an overall 50 vol% of metallic content. Dry sliding tests using Al2O3 pins were carried out at 25 °C and 450 °C to study the tribological performance of the coatings. While the inclusion of Ag notably decreased the coefficient of friction (COF) at elevated temperatures, no distinct trend in COF was observed for the tests conducted at 25 °C. The composite coating containing 5 vol% Ag exhibited superior friction and wear performance at 25 °C and 450 °C. The addition of Al2O3 enhanced the coating hardness. However, incorporating a higher amount of Ag reduced the Al2O3 retention during CS and, subsequently, the hardness of the coating. The study delves into the role of Ag in the retention of ceramic particles during the CS process and the mechanisms underlying the enhanced self-lubrication performance of the cermet coatings.
Squash in Los Angeles: Heat Strain and Performance Considerations at the 2028 Olympic Games
Authors: Ihsan Mohammed , Kwok Vincent , Wong Ho Yi , Girard Olivier , James Carl
Published: January 2025

Background: The Los Angeles 2028 Olympics will mark the debut of squash, a high-intensity sport characterized by repeated efforts, posing potential thermoregulatory challenges. The demanding nature of squash results in substantial metabolic heat production, with consequential heat strain exacerbated by the indoor environment of squash courts, where low to moderate evaporative potential limits effective cooling. Players often experience increased body-heat storage and thermal strain, with muscle cramps (an early warning sign of more severe heat-related illnesses) commonly observed during tournaments. Despite these challenges, there are limited data on the thermoregulatory responses of elite squash players during match play. Purpose: We discuss the thermoregulatory challenges faced by squash players and highlight key areas for research. Additionally, practical guidelines are provided for practitioners preparing squash players for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics. Evidence: Preliminary findings from international squash tournaments reveal that elite players endure significant physiological strain, with core temperatures rising to 39.0 °C to 40.1 °C, despite matches being played in mild wet-bulb globe temperatures of 19.4 °C (0.9 °C). Sustained heart rates exceeding 90% of maximal heart rate further compound this thermal strain. However, research on how thermal strain affects squash-specific fitness, recovery, and stroke mechanics are lacking. Such information is crucial for evaluating the need and effectiveness of tailored mitigation strategies such as heat training/exposures and precooling and midcooling during warm-up and match play. Conclusion: Systematic research into the thermal demands of squash and their impact on fitness and skills is needed. These insights can inform evidence-based strategies to safeguard athlete well-being and optimize performance at Los Angeles 2028.
Creating coveted bioluminescence colors for simultaneous multi-color bioimaging
Authors: Hattori Mitsuru , Wazawa Tetsuichi , Orioka Mariko , Hiruta Yuki , Nagai Takeharu
Published: January 2025

Bioluminescence, an optical marker that does not require excitation by light, allows researchers to simultaneously observe multiple targets, each exhibiting a different color. Notably, the colors of the bioluminescent proteins must sufficiently vary to enable simultaneous detection. Here, we aimed to introduce a method that can be used to expand the color variation by tuning dual-acceptor bioluminescence resonance energy transfer. Using this approach, we could visualize multiple targets with up to 20 colors through single-shot acquisition using a color complementary metal-oxide semiconductor camera. Overall, this method enables simple and simultaneous observation of multiple biological targets and phenomena.
Fatal interactions: pneumonia in bighorn lambs following experimental exposure to carriers of
Mycoplasma ovipneumoniae
Authors: Weyand Logan K. , Felts Brandi L. , Cassirer E. Frances , Jenks Jonathan A. , Walsh Daniel P. , Besser Thomas E.
Published: January 2025

We hypothesized that bighorn sheep ewes with chronic nasal
Mycoplasma ovipneumoniae
carriage are the source of infection that results in fatal lamb pneumonia. We tested this hypothesis in captive bighorn ewes at two study facilities over a 5-year period, by identifying carrier ewes and then comparing lamb fates in groups that did (exposed pens) or did not (non-exposed pens) include one or more carrier ewes. Most (23 of 30) lambs born in exposed pens, but none of 11 lambs born in non-exposed pens, contracted fatal pneumonia. In addition, surviving lambs in exposed pens showed obvious signs of respiratory disease while lambs in non-exposed pens did not. In crossover experiments, individual non-carrier ewes had lambs that experienced fatal pneumonia in years when housed in exposed pens, but not in years when housed in non-exposed pens. The results of these studies clearly associate lamb pneumonia to exposure to
M. ovipneumoniae
carrier ewes, consistent with a necessary role for this agent in epizootic pneumonia of bighorn sheep. These data specifically highlight the role of chronic
M. ovipneumoniae
carriage by some bighorn ewes in the epidemiology of this population-limiting wildlife disease.

IMPORTANCE

Bighorn sheep populations, historically important in mountain and canyon ecosystems of western North America, declined precipitously following European settlement of North America and remain depressed today. One factor contributing to these declines and lack of recovery is epizootic pneumonia caused by the bacterium
Mycoplasma ovipneumoniae
. This pathogen arrived with settlers’ domestic sheep and goats and spilled over to infect bighorn sheep, a process that continues to this day. Bighorn losses from this disease include high rates of mortality (median, approaching 50%) of all ages of bighorn sheep on initial exposure, followed in subsequent years to decades by mortality largely limited to young lambs. The source of infection causing persistent lamb losses is the focus of the research described here. Conducting these studies on groups of captive bighorn sheep enabled demonstration of clear linkage between largely asymptomatic nasal carriage of
M. ovipneumoniae
by ewes and outbreaks of fatal pneumonia in lambs.
The role of M2 proteins of pneumoviruses in transcription regulation, prevention of hypermutation, and activation of the type I interferon pathway
Authors: Ribó-Molina Pau , Groen Kevin , Susma Balasubramanian , van Nieuwkoop Stefan , Funk Mathis , Fouchier Ron A. M. , van den Hoogen Bernadette G.
Published: January 2025

Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) is an important causative agent of respiratory tract disease. Fundamental knowledge of the interaction between HMPV and the innate immune system could lead to the design of novel antiviral therapies. Previously, we demonstrated that HMPV M2-2 deletion mutants had hypermutated genomes and contained defective interfering particles (DIs), which are potent inducers of the IFN response. Here, we investigated the role of the HMPV M2-2 protein as IFN antagonist using chimeric HMPV expressing M2 proteins of other pneumoviruses: respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and avian metapneumovirus type C (AMPV/C). Chimeric HMPVs expressing the M2 proteins of RSV or AMPV/C were attenuated in HEp-2 cells but did not activate the IFN response, and their genomes were not hypermutated. In contrast, chimeric HMPVs expressing the M2-2 proteins of RSV and AMPV/C, in combination with HMPV M2-1, did activate the IFN response, and their genomes were hypermutated. Investigation of the role of the pneumovirus M2 proteins in transcription regulation demonstrated that the M2-2 protein, only in concerted action with autologous M2-1 protein, acted as a transcription elongation factor. As a second approach, chimeric RSV in which the IFN antagonists NS1 and NS2 were replaced by the HMPV M2-2 gene failed to suppress an IFN response, indicating that the HMPV M2-2 protein is not a potent IFN antagonist. These data indicate that expression of autologous M2-1 and M2-2 proteins is important for the fidelity of the RNA-dependent RNA polymerase, necessary to prevent the accumulation of mutations, and possibly DIs, thereby preventing activation of the IFN responses.

IMPORTANCE

The M2-2 protein of human metapneumovirus is suggested to function as a type I interferon antagonist, a function so far not assigned to the M2 proteins of other pneumoviruses. Although M2-2 deletion mutants of HMPV activate the type I interferon pathway, these mutants have hypermutated genomes and contain defective interfering RNAs, known to activate the interferon pathway. Here, we show that the M2-2 protein, in concerted action with autologous M2-1 protein, acts as a transcription elongation factor, which could explain the accumulation of DIs in M2-2 deletion mutants. Additionally, chimeric RSV in which the IFN antagonists NS1 and NS2 were replaced by the HMPV M2-2 gene failed to suppress an IFN response. These data indicate that expression of autologous M2-1 and M2-2 proteins is required for the fidelity of the RNA-dependent RNA polymerase to prevent genome hypermutation and activation of the type I IFN pathway.
RNASEK interacting with PEDV structural proteins facilitates virus entry via clathrin-mediated endocytosis
Authors: Qin Wenzhen , Kong Ning , Xie Shengsong , Liu Hailong , Yang Xinyu , Wang Yahe , Cao Xinyu , Liu Yuchang , Wang Jiarui , Sun He , Tong Wu , Yu Hai , Zheng Hao , Zhang Wen , Tong Guangzhi , Shan Tongling
Published: January 2025

Porcine epidemic diarrhea virus (PEDV), as a type of Alphacoronavirus causing acute diarrhea and high death rate among sucking piglets, poses great financial damage to the swine industry. Nevertheless, the molecular mechanism whereby PEDV enters host cells is unclear, limiting the development of PED vaccines and anti-PEDV agents. The present study found that the host protein ribonuclease kappa (RNASEK) was regulated by USF2, a transcription factor, and facilitated the PEDV replication. RNASEK was identified as a novel binding partner of PEDV, which interacted with a spike (S), envelope (E), and membrane (M) proteins on PEDV virion surfaces to increase the uptake not for attachment of PEDV virions. PEDV enters cells through the endocytosis pathways. RNASEK knockdown or RNASEK knockout assay revealed that through clathrin-mediated endocytosis (CME), RNASEK promoted the internalization of PEDV virions. Clathrin and the adaptor protein EPS15 only interacted with PEDV E protein, demonstrating that the RNASEK could target more virions through interaction with PEDV S, E, and M proteins to clathrin and EPS15 proteins rather than merely interacting with PEDV E protein to mediate the PEDV entry through CME. Moreover, our findings suggest that RNASEK, a newly identified host-entry factor, facilitates PEDV internalization by increasing the interaction of PEDV virions and EPS15-clathrin complex and may also provide a potential target for anti-PEDV therapies.

IMPORTANCE

PEDV is the causative pathogen of porcine diarrhea, which is a highly infectious acute intestinal condition, that poses significant economic damage to the swine industry. However, the existing PED vaccines fail to provide adequate protection for piglets against PEDV infection. Although PEDV replication in cells has been widely described, the mechanisms beneath PEDV entry of the host cells are incompletely understood. In this study, we showed that RNASEK, regulated by the transcription factor USF2, is a new host factor increasing PEDV infection in LLC-PK1 cells. RNASEK can bind to multiple structural proteins of PEDV (S, E, and M proteins), therefore increasing the interaction between PEDV virions, clathrin, and EPS15 to promote PEDV virion entry. Apart from unraveling the entry mechanisms of PEDV, our findings also contributed to facilitating the development of anti-PEDV agents and PED vaccines.
Can carbonated water support weight loss?
Authors: Takahashi Akira
Published: January 2025

Background

Carbonated water has been reported to induce satiety, gastric motility and lower serum glucose concentrations, but the mechanisms remain unclear.

Methods

This report explores the physiological effects of carbonated water, referencing a study published in 2004 on the mechanisms of hypoglycaemia induced by haemodialysis.

Results

Upon consumption of carbonated water, carbon dioxide (CO2) is absorbed into the bloodstream, and converted into bicarbonate by the enzyme carbonic anhydrase in erythrocytes. This process increases intracellular pH, stimulating anaerobic glycolysis in erythrocytes and leading to higher glucose utilisation. A comparison is drawn with haemodialysis, where CO2absorption by the blood similarly enhances glucose metabolism. During haemodialysis, blood glucose levels decrease from an average of 118.3 mg/dL before entering the dialyser to 98.6 mg/dL after passing through, despite the glucose concentration in the dialysate being approximately 105.0 mg/dL.

Conclusion

CO2in carbonated water may promote weight loss by enhancing glucose uptake and metabolism in red blood cells. However, the amount is so small that it is difficult to expect weight loss effects solely from the CO2in carbonated water. Drinking carbonated water may also affect blood glucose measurements. Further studies are needed to explore its long-term effects and potential side effects.
Which variables are associated with recruitment failure? A nationwide review on obstetrical and gynaecological multicentre RCTs (2003–2023)
Authors: Rikken Judith , Casteleijn Romee , van der Weide Marijke C , Duijnhoven Ruben , Goddijn Mariëtte , Mol Ben W , van der Veen Fulco , van Wely Madelon
Published: January 2025

Objective

We aim to assess which variables are associated with recruitment failure of obstetrical and gynaecological randomised controlled trials (RCTs), leading to an extension of the study period.

Design

Nationwide study.

Setting

A cohort of RCTs supported by the trial centre of the Dutch Consortium of Obstetrics and Gynaecology.

Population

We included 83 RCTs that recruited patients between 1 March 2003 and 1 December 2023.

Main outcome measures

Main outcome was recruitment target not achieved within 6 months after the preplanned recruitment period. Secondary outcomes were recruitment target not achieved within an extension period of at least 12 months and premature termination of the trial. In all RCTs, we collected information on variables with a potential effect on recruitment failure, recorded at five levels; patient, doctor, participating centre, study organisation and study design.

Results

In total, 46 of 83 RCTs (55%) did not achieve their targeted recruitment within the preplanned study period with a maximal extension period of 6 months. The most relevant variables for recruitment failure in multivariable risk prediction modelling were presence of a no-treatment arm (where treatment is standard clinical practice), a compensation fee of less than €200 per included patient, funding of less than €350 000, while a preceding pilot study lowered this risk.

Conclusions

We identified that the presence of a no-treatment arm, low funding and a low compensation fee per included patient were the most relevant risk factors for recruitment failure within the preplanned period, while a preceding pilot study lowered this risk. Awareness of these variables is important when designing future studies.
Isosorbide mononitrate for preinduction cervical ripening at or post-term pregnancy: randomised placebo-controlled clinical trial
Authors: El-Naggar Ramy Mohamed , Shaker Ahmed Nagy , Raslan Mohamed Attia , El-Bassyouny Heba Rady
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Effective labour induction is marked by the onset of uterine contractions, progressive cervical dilation, and effacement, culminating in a vaginal birth without maternal or fetal complications. The success of induction largely depends on cervical ripening. Isosorbide mononitrate (ISMN), a nitric oxide donor, has shown potential for cervical ripening, facilitating labour induction by promoting cervical softening, effacement and dilation. This study evaluates the efficacy and safety of ISMN for cervical ripening before labour induction at term or post-term.

Methods

In this double-blinded randomised controlled trial, 160 primigravidas with an unripe cervix (Bishop score<6) undergoing labour induction at term or post-term were enrolled. The ISMN group received 40 mg of intravaginal ISMN in the posterior fornix every 4 hours, up to four doses. The placebo group received intravaginal pyridoxine placebos on the same schedule. The primary outcome measured was the duration from labour induction to placental delivery. Secondary outcomes included caesarean section rates.

Results

The ISMN group had a statistically significant shorter induction-to-delivery time compared with the placebo group (20.57±4.64 hours vs 23.15±5.13 hours, p=0.01). Additionally, the time from the first dose to delivery was reduced in the ISMN group. The caesarean section rate was lower in the ISMN group (29% vs 41%, p=0.17), though this difference was not statistically significant.

Conclusion

ISMN is an effective and safe option for cervical ripening, potentially shortening the labour duration.

Trial registration number

https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT03544606.
Cenozoic faulting in the Upper Hyland River Valley, Southeastern Yukon: A thermochronological perspective
Authors: Padgett Joel , Enkelmann Eva , Kellett Dawn Anne-Marie , Moynihan David P , Stephan Tobias
Published: January 2025

The Logan fault is one of many dextral faults that strike generally parallel to the NW-trend of the Northern Canadian Cordillera. Though widely documented, the timing and magnitude of displacement on many of these orogen-parallel faults are not well-constrained. Here, we present new low-temperature thermochronology data and thermal history models from the Upper Hyland River Valley area in the Logan Mountains in southeastern Yukon that document accelerated cooling between ca. 60–50 Ma in localized regions adjacent to faults that strike obliquely to and likely connect with the Logan fault. We propose that this phase of localized cooling was driven by the activation of a network of faults in the Upper Hyland River Valley, resulting in ~4–5.5 km of local exhumation. We suggest that faulting in the Upper Hyland River Valley was synthetic with dextral slip on the Tintina fault, a lithospheric-scale structure thought to have accommodated ~430 km of dextral strike-slip.
Small area estimation of forest biomass via a two-stage model for continuous zero-inflated data
Authors: White Grayson W. , Yamamoto Josh K. , Elsyad Dinan H. , Schmitt Julian F. , Korsgaard Niels H. , Hu Jie Kate , Gaines George Chilton , Frescino Tracey S. , McConville Kelly S.
Published: January 2025

Nationwide Forest Inventories (NFIs) collect data on and monitor the trends of forests across the globe. Users of NFI data are increasingly interested in monitoring forest attributes such as biomass at fine geographic and temporal scales, resulting in a need for assessment and development of small area estimation techniques in forest inventory. We implement a small area estimator and parametric bootstrap estimator that account for zero-inflation in biomass data via a two-stage model-based approach and compare the performance to a Horvitz-Thompson estimator, a post-stratified estimator, and to the unit- and area-level empirical best linear unbiased prediction (EBLUP) estimators. We conduct a simulation study in Nevada with data from the United States NFI, the Forest Inventory & Analysis Program, and remote sensing data products. Results show the zero-inflated estimator has the lowest relative bias and the smallest empirical root mean square error. Moreover, the 95% confidence interval coverages of the zero-inflated estimator and the unit-level EBLUP are more accurate than the other two estimators. To further illustrate the practical utility, we employ a data application across the 2019 measurement year in Nevada. We introduce the R package, saeczi, which efficiently implements the zero-inflated estimator and its mean squared error estimator.
Recognizing van Deusen’s mixed estimator for annual forest inventory as a linear mixed model
Authors: Affleck David L.R. , Gaines George C.
Published: January 2025

The mixed estimator (ME) for annual forest inventory proposed by van Deusen (1999; Can. J. For. Res. 29: 1824–1828) is reformulated as a linear mixed model. This equivalent structure admits an interpretation of the ME as a polynomial regression on year with correlated year-specific random effects. It also uncovers the necessary criterion for maximum likelihood (ML) estimation. The improved performance of the ME under ML estimation is illustrated through simulations and application to inventory data from Montana, USA. Limitations of the ME relating to model-misspecification are also discussed.
On the two-loop BSM corrections to $$h\longrightarrow \gamma \gamma $$ in a triplet extension of the SM
Authors: Degrassi Giuseppe , Slavich Pietro
Published: January 2025

We compute the two-loop BSM contributions to the

$$h\longrightarrow \gamma \gamma $$

h
⟶
γ
γ

decay width in the SM extended with a real triplet of SU(2). We consider scenarios in which the neutral components of doublet and triplet do not mix, so that the lighter neutral scalar h has (at least approximately) SM-like couplings to fermions and gauge bosons. We focus on the two-loop corrections controlled by the quartic scalar couplings, and obtain explicit and compact formulas for the

$$h \gamma \gamma $$

h
γ
γ

amplitude by means of a low-energy theorem that connects it to the derivative of the photon self-energy w.r.t. the Higgs field. We briefly discuss the numerical impact of the newly-computed contributions, showing that they may be required for a precise determination of

$$\Gamma [h\rightarrow \gamma \gamma ]$$

Γ
[
h
→
γ
γ
]

in scenarios where the quartic scalar couplings are large.
Exact solution of the Dunkl–Schrödinger equation for an angular-dependent potential and application of the Hellman–Feynman theorem
Authors: Arabsaghari A. , Hassanabadi H. , Chung W. S.
Published: January 2025

We determine the closed-form solution of a three-dimensional stationary Schrödinger equation for an angular-dependent potential in spherical coordinates within the Dunkl formalism. Furthermore, we calculate the change of the system’s total energy with respect to coupling constants in the potential by means of the Hellman–Feynman theorem.
Green and Low-Carbon Transition in Xizang Autonomous Region: Conditional Analysis and Policy Approaches — Case Study on the Construction of Chamdo Clean Energy Base
Authors: JIANG Wei , CAO Dongdong , ZHANG Kun , YE Zihao
Published: January 2025

Based on a follow-up study of Xizang Autonomous Region’s ecological civilization construction and its clean energy development, this paper takes Chamdo as a case study and uses the SWOT matrix to analyze the basic conditions, challenges, and possible pathways for clean energy development. The purpose is to discuss whether Xizang can play a prominent role in the green and low-carbon transition. It demonstrates that, under the framework of nationwide planning, starting from Xizang’s resource endowments and the practical demands of sustainable development, Xizang can capitalize on external opportunities, such as policy advantages and power assistance, to build a diversified clean energy system that integrates hydropower, wind, solar, and energy storage. By strengthening the coordination between the clean energy sector and other industries, Xizang can promote both local consumption of clean energy and its transmission to other regions. This not only enables Xizang to play a prominent role in the nation’s green and low-carbon transition, but also uses clean energy as a bridge to reinforce collaborative efforts among eastern, central, and western regions in achieving dual carbon goals, while fostering common prosperity, and enhancing national unity.
Incorporating Lymph Node Size at CT as an N1 Descriptor in Clinical N Staging for Lung Cancer
Authors: Ahn Yura , Lee Sang Min , Choe Jooae , Choi Se Hoon , Do Kyung-Hyun , Seo Joon Beom
Published: January 2025

In patients who underwent surgery for non–small lung cancer, CT-defined bulky lymph nodes (≥15 mm) served as an effective descriptor for clinical N1 staging, improving prognostic stratification.
On the Source of Conductivity in Alkaline Zn Anodes: Zn Percolation and ZnO Bridging
Authors: Guida Dominick P. , Chuang Andrew (Chihpin) , Okasinski John , Wendling Matthew T. , Chadderdon Xiaotong H. , Gallaway Joshua W
Published: January 2025

Alkaline Zn anodes are fundamental to commercial Zn-MnO2 batteries as well as emerging rechargeable designs. In these electrodes, Zn particles are both the active material and source of electronic conduction. However, there are known cases in which electronic connectivity between Zn particles or the current collecting pin is lost even though the battery continues to function. Here we use X-ray computed tomography (CT) of AA batteries to demonstrate several examples of Zn particle-to-particle connectivity breakdown, which is observed even in cases at relatively high discharge rate. This indicates maintenance of the electronic network through the less-conductive ZnO discharge product. We introduce a new equation for electronic conductivity maintained through bridges of ZnO formed between percolating Zn particles. This necessitates discarding the Bruggeman correlation and instead redefining effective electronic conductivity using percolation theory. We demonstrate that such a model for conduction enables prediction of an inverted reaction zone, which is an experimentally observed case in which significant Zn dissolution and ZnO formation occurs heavily near the current collecting pin. Current computational Zn-MnO2 models never predict an inverted reaction zone, and thus the updated conductivity enables models to accurately explain a wider range of experimental conditions.
Near-Term and Intrapartum Care of Mothers for Perinatal and Newborn Outcomes
Authors: Yasin Rahima , Azhar Maha , Naseem Hamna Amir , Ali Ayesha Arshad , Das Jai K. , Bhutta Zulfiqar A.
Published: January 2025

Introduction: Near-term and intrapartum care play pivotal roles in ensuring a safe childbirth experience and are essential components of a comprehensive approach to maternal and neonatal health. Methods: The following interventions were identified: antibiotics for preterm premature rupture of membrane, antenatal corticosteroids for fetal lung maturation, partograph use during labor and delivery, induction of labor at or post-term, skilled birth care and safe childbirth checklist during labor and delivery. A scoping exercise was conducted to ascertain the most up-to-date evidence, and reviews of topics of interest were updated in case the evidence was not recent, with a focus on low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Results: Antibiotics reduced the overall risk of neonatal infection including pneumonia (RR 0.67 [0.52 to 0.85]). LMIC evidence showed a significant effect of antenatal steroids on the risk of neonatal mortality (RR 0.64 [0.43 to 0.97]) and respiratory distress syndrome (RR 0.65 [0.44 to 0.96]). Induction of labor practices at term or post-term reduced the risk of meconium aspiration syndrome (RR 0.51 [0.34 to 0.76]). The use of the WHO childbirth checklist significantly raised the standard of preeclampsia care (OR 8.09 [2.55 to 25.63]) as well as of maternal infection management (OR 25.44 [4.09 to 158.08]). LMIC-specific evidence also demonstrated a significant reduction in the risk of stillbirth (OR 0.92 [0.87 to 0.96]). Conclusion: Further research initiatives pertaining to health interventions delivered to expectant mothers near-term or during the intrapartum period can contribute to a more inclusive understanding of health challenges in LMICs.
Armorum iudicium as an Atellan Farce
Authors: Pieczonka Joanna
Published: January 2025

In his commentary on Statius’ Thebaid, Lactantius Placidus quotes a fragment of a play by Pomponius entitled Armorum iudicium. Nevertheless, some scholars have assigned the passage to the tragic writers Pacuvius or Pomponius Secundus. This article argues that the drama was in fact a mythological parody. Parodistic intent can be seen in the preserved fragment, which begins in a high style involving alliteration and the newly coined adjective ascendibilis but ends with the humourous colloquialism scala. This article demonstrates similarities between the fragment and several passages from Plautine comedies that contain identification motifs and jokes about the construction and meaning of new compound adjectives. All this suggests that Armorum iudicium belongs to the comic genre of Atellana.
Arab Feminist Cyber Activism
Authors: Mahadeen Ebtihal
Published: January 2025

There is a need to situate current iterations of Arabic feminist cyber activism within the long history of feminist activism in the region and to read them as initiatives in/from the margin that adopt an intersectional approach with an explicit focus on indigenous decolonial knowledge. Some Arab feminist collectives active today are producing and enabling the production of distinctly indigenous articulations of feminism situated in opposition to what can be termed hegemonic feminism, embodied in international and non-governmental women’s organizations. I analyse these collectives’ works on two levels: the level of feminist positioning and the level of mediated activism. This article argues that these collectives’ interventions are authentic and of the region, embody resistance from the margin, as well as the ethos and politics of solidarity, particularly considering their positioning on Palestine, and they resist digital colonialism through abstaining from extractive media practices and adopting a redistributive ethos.
The design principles of a sociolinguistic typological questionnaire for language contact research
Authors: Kashima Eri , Di Garbo Francesca , Singer Ruth , Khanina Olesya
Published: January 2025

This paper presents the design rationale and pilot demonstration of the GramAdapt Social Contact questionnaire; a research tool developed for collecting global comparative sociolinguistic data on language contact scenarios. The questionnaire is qualitative with quantitative potential, inviting language community experts to provide best-assessment answers to questions about social contact in their communities of expertise. The main purpose is to compare contact scenarios, however the questionnaire can also be a broad survey of any given contact situation as it was designed to target factors associated with language contact and change phenomena at large. Two experts of small-scale multilingual communities answer an abridged version of the questionnaire to qualitatively demonstrate this proof of concept. The experts of Mawng and Kunbarlang (northern Australia), and Tundra Enets and Nganasan (northern Siberia) were chosen as these communities defy nation-based models of multilingualism. The responses are broadly successful, thus demonstrating the theoretical contribution and methodological potential of this questionnaire.
Seed morphology of five Aeschynomene (Fabaceae) species from Pantanal
Authors: FABIANO VITORIA S. , CATIAN GISELE , LEME FLÁVIA M. , SCREMIN-DIAS EDNA
Published: January 2025

Seed shape, dimensions, surface texture, sculpture, hilum shape, and position were recorded for five Aeschynomene L. species (Fabaceae): A. denticulata, A. fluminensis, A. histrix, A. rudis, and A. sensitiva from Pantanal, Brazil, using a scanning electron microscope. The five species shared similar seed characteristics such as shape, color, surface, apex and base, face and side, hilar fissure, hilar sculpture and color, aril sculpture and color, micropylar pore position, and testa sculpture. Seed species differed in measurements (seed length and width, hilum length and width, and aril elevation). The hilum exhibited the position, shape, microsculpture, periclinal wall, and secondary sculpture of the testa, which are typical of some species. Two patterns were recognized based on the hilum shape, hilar area, and five hilum microsculpture surface patterns. Four patterns were recognized based on the testa periclinal wall, and three patterns were recognized based on the testa secondary sculpture. The results proved the potential taxonomic value of the recorded characteristics, as indicated by the richness of variation recorded in a limited sample of Aeschynomene species in the Pantanal wetland.
Alassio 1985. Un incontro su Carlo Levi: Ricordi, testimonianze, prospettive critiche
Authors: Beniscelli Alberto
Published: January 2025

The Fondo Carlo Levi, housed in the Alassio Library “Renzo Deaglio”, preserves transcripts of speeches recorded from April 20 to 22, 1985, during the Carlo Levi scrittore conference organized by the Fondazione Carlo Levi on the tenth anniversary of Levi's death. This 156-page booklet captures the “memoirs” of friends who accompanied Levi throughout his life – such as Giulio Einaudi, Natalia Ginzburg, Manlio Cancogni, and Giovanni Russo – as well as contributions from a younger generation of readers and scholars. Through an overview of these unpublished typescripts, this paper traces key moments from the conference that offer fresh insights into Levi's life, including his time in the “maternal” town of Alassio, his years in Florence (1943–1945), and his return to Lucania for the 1946 election campaign. Among the most compelling contributions, Cancogni discusses the genesis of L’Orologio, while Russo explores the reception of Cristo si è fermato a Eboli. Additionally, several scholars, including Luisa Orioli, Gigliola De Donato, Lorenzo Mondo, and Carlo Caltagirone, analyzed Levi's posthumous book, Quaderno a cancelli, examining a text not yet fully integrated into scholarly debate at the time.