bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Deciphering Automation Transparency: Do the Benefits of Transparency Differ Based on Whether Decision Recommendations Are Provided?
Authors: Gegoff Isabella , Tatasciore Monica , Bowden Vanessa K. , Loft Shayne
Published: February 2025

Objective

To better understand automation transparency, we experimentally isolated the effects of additional information and decision recommendations on decision accuracy, decision time, perceived workload, trust, and system usability.

Background

The benefits of automation transparency are well documented. Previously, however, transparency (in the form of additional information) has been coupled with the provision of decision recommendations, potentially decreasing decision-maker agency and promoting automation bias. It may instead be more beneficial to provide additional information without decision recommendations to inform operators’ unaided decision making.

Methods

Participants selected the optimal uninhabited vehicle (UV) to complete missions. Additional display information and decision recommendations were provided but were not always accurate. The level of additional information (no, medium, high) was manipulated between-subjects, and the provision of recommendations (absent, present) within-subjects.

Results

When decision recommendations were provided, participants made more accurate and faster decisions, and rated the UV system as more usable. However, recommendation provision reduced participants’ ability to discriminate UV system information accuracy. Increased additional information led to faster decisions, lower perceived workload, and higher trust and usability ratings but only significantly improved decision (UV selection) accuracy when recommendations were provided.

Conclusion

Individuals scrutinized additional information more when not provided decision recommendations, potentially indicating a higher expected value of processing that information. However, additional information only improved performance when accompanied by recommendations to support decisions.

Application

It is critical to understand the potential differential impact of, and interaction between, additional display information and decision recommendations to design effective transparent automated systems in the modern workplace.
Elias von Löwen (Crätschmair): An unrecognized pioneer of the research on optical libration of the Moon
Authors: Włodarczyk Jarosław
Published: February 2025

Johannes Hevelius is credited with being the first astronomer to systematically describe the optical libration of the Moon in his Selenographia (1647) and to present a quantitative model of the phenomenon in De motu Lunae libratorio. . . (1654). However, from the correspondence that Hevelius conducted in 1650 with Elias von Löwen (Crätschmair) and his wife Maria Cunitia, it follows that the first model of optical libration of the Moon, allowing predict the changing position of lunar spots relative to the edge of the lunar disk, was developed by von Löwen. In this article I will compare the predictions of von Löwen’s and Hevelius’s models for the years 1650–51 and present a chronology of early research on libration supplemented with von Löwen’s account.
Tycho Brahe’s Quadrans Muralis – A detailed review
Authors: Schou Ole
Published: February 2025

Tycho Brahe’s Quadrans Muralis – the mural quadrant – is without doubt his most famous astronomical instrument, not least due to the illustration of the quadrant as it appears in the Astronomiæ Instauratæ Mechanica, Tycho’s description of his astronomical instruments. This quadrant was permanently installed on the western wall of the south-western room in Tycho’s castle Uraniborg on the island of Hven. Apart from Tycho’s own description in Mechanica, the Quadrans Muralis has hitherto not been subjected to a detailed evaluation of all important aspects of the instrument. In this report, properties such as construction, number and type of observations, accuracy and precision as well as limitations of use are described.
Streptococcus mutans and Caries: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Mazurel D. , Brandt B.W. , Boomsma M. , Crielaard W. , Lagerweij M. , Exterkate R.A.M. , Deng D.M.
Published: February 2025

It has been questioned whether Streptococcus mutans can still be considered the major etiological agent for caries. The main argument is that most evidence has been based on single-species identification. The composition of the oral microbiome was not analyzed. This systemic review aims to assess the prevalence and abundance of S. mutans in caries-active (CA) and caries-free (CF) subjects based on clinical studies in which the microbiome was investigated. Three databases (PubMed, Cochrane, Embase) were searched until May 22, 2023, for eligible publications that included CA and CF subjects and reported the detection of both S. mutans and the oral microbial community, using DNA-based methods. The clinical and microbial outcomes were summarized and further analyzed using a random-effects model. Of 22 eligible studies, 3 were excluded due to the high risk of bias. In the remaining 19 studies, 16 reported the prevalence of S. mutans, 11 reported its relative abundance, and 8 reported both parameters. The prevalence of S. mutans in CA was either similar to ( n = 4) or higher than ( n = 12) the CF group. The reported relative abundance in CA was higher than CF in all 11 studies, although the values varied from 0.001% to 5%. Meta-analysis confirmed the significance of these findings. The summary of microbial community data did not reveal other caries-associated bacterial genera/species than S. mutans. In conclusion, the collected evidence based on microbiome studies suggests a strong association between the prevalence and abundance of S. mutans and caries experience. While the cariogenic role of S. mutans in the oral ecosystem should be recognized, its actual function warrants further exploration.
Digital twin for the formal analysis of a depth of anesthesia controller
Authors: AbdElSalam Mohamed , Bensalem Saddek , Delacourt Antoine , He Weicheng , Katsaros Panagiotis , Kekatos Nikolaos , Nolasco Ruiz Ricardo , Peled Doron , Ponchant Matthieu , Ryad Ismail , Temperekidis Anastasios , Wu Changshun
Published: February 2025

Effective management of depth of anesthesia (DoA) is crucial for patient safety in healthcare. Anesthesiologists typically adjust anesthetic dosages to maintain desired sedation, analgesia (pain relief), and muscle relaxation states. In this paper, we present a digital twin (DT) architecture for the formal modeling and verification of an infusion pump controller for DoA management. The DT incorporates a virtual patient model, an autonomous DoA controller adjusting the infusion rate of the anesthetic agent, i.e., propofol, a test-case manager, and a runtime verification monitor. Data exchange occurs via Ethernet frames. Challenges arise from noise in the Bispectral Index monitoring system readings and infusion rate measurements in clinical scenarios. To mitigate noise impact, we design a feedback controller that is robust against noise. We reason about DT performance by evaluating control specifications using a temporal-logic language within the context of our runtime verification tool.
Semi-Parametric Item Response Theory With O’Sullivan Splines for Item Responses and Response Time
Authors: Liu Chen-Wei
Published: February 2025

Response time (RT) has been an essential resource for supplementing the estimation accuracy of latent traits and item parameters in educational testing. Most item response theory (IRT) approaches are based on parametric RT models. However, since test takers may alter their behaviors during a test due to motivation or strategy shifts, fatigue, or other causes, parametric IRT models are unlikely to capture such subtle and nonlinear information. In this work, we propose a novel semi-parametric IRT model with O’Sullivan splines to accommodate the flexible mean RT shapes and explore the underlying nonlinear relationships between latent traits and RT. A simulation study was conducted to demonstrate the substantial improvement in parameter estimation achieved by the new model, as well as the detriment of using parametric models in terms of biases and measurement errors. Using this model, a dataset of mathematics test scores and RT from the Programme for International Student Assessment was analyzed to demonstrate the evident nonlinearity and to compare the proposed model with existing models in terms of model fitting. The findings presented in this study indicate the promising nature of the new approach, suggesting its potential as an additional psychometric tool to enhance test reliability and reduce measurement errors.
Beyond Regulated Writing: The Effects of Self-Regulation Procedures Enhanced With Technology on Informative Writing of Kuwaiti Adolescents With ASD
Authors: Almumen Huda A. , Raimondi Sharon L.
Published: February 2025

This research exploration sought to investigate the effects of self-regulated strategy development (SRSD), enhanced with the use of tablets (iPads), on the informative writing performance of Kuwaiti, English as a Second Language (ESL) adolescents with autism spectrum disorders (ASD). A single-subject, multiple probe, and multiple baseline design across three participants was used to explore the impact of the intervention on the number of genre elements within, and the holistic quality of, the informative, written essays of those participants. Findings indicated that SRSD paired with iPad technology accelerated the positive direction of the writing measures, improving the participants’ written endeavors in comparison to their baseline attempts. Results also demonstrated SRSD per se to be a powerful writing strategy, with teacher-led instruction playing a key role in its success. Implications and recommendations for future research and practice are provided.
Relationship of Neurotropin-3 Gene Polymorphism with Cognitive Impairment in Bipolar Disorder
Authors: Monisha Muralidharan , Keshri Neha , Nandeesha Hanumanthappa , Menon Vikas
Published: February 2025

Background:

Neurotropin-3 (NT-3), a marker of neural plasticity, is reported to be altered in bipolar disorder (BD). This study was designed to evaluate NT-3 gene polymorphism (rs 6489630, rs 6332, and rs 11063714) in BD and its association with disease severity and cognition.

Methods:

The study included 176 BD cases and 176 controls. All the participants were tested for NT-3 polymorphism and plasma NT-3. ACE-III scores were used to analyze cognition.

Results:

The NT-3 polymorphism (rs 6489630) was associated with cognitive impairment in BD ( P = .010). The attention score was found to be decreased in the CT genotype ( P = .028) when compared to the CC and TT genotypes of the rs6489630 variant. The visuospatial ability score was decreased in the GG genotype ( P = .044) compared to the AG genotype of the rs11063714 variant. BD patients with the maniac episode showed a decrease in levels of Neurotrophin-3 in comparison to both the control group ( P = .045) and the remission group ( P = .017). Plasma NT-3 was associated with the YMRS ( r = −0.221, P = .003), HDRS ( r = 0.209, P = .005) and visuospatial ability score ( r = 0.180, P = .017) in patients with BD.

Conclusion:

Single nucleotide polymorphisms of NT-3 are associated with cognitive dysfunction in BD.
The magnetic resonance imaging appearance of the normal anatomy and injury pattern of capsuloligamentous complex of the first metatarsophalangeal joint
Authors: Qian Zhan-hua , Wang Jin-e , Bai Rong-jie , Zhan Hui-li , Li Wen-ting , Wang Nai-li , Yin Yuming
Published: February 2025

Background

The capsuloligamentous complex injury of the first metatarsophalangeal joint (MTPJ) is a common cause of turf toe.

Purpose

To investigate whether high-resolution 3 T magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) could demonstrate all the normal anatomic structures and the MR features of the capsuloligamentous complex injury of the first MTPJ, and to evaluate the diagnostic performance of MRI in the diagnosis of the capsuloligamentous complex injuries of the first MTPJ.

Material and Methods

A total of 115 feet were included in this study, including 48 feet from 24 healthy volunteers and 67 feet from 67 patients with the capsuloligamentous complex of the first MTPJ injuries. All feet had MRI examination. The MRI features of the capsuloligamentous complex of the first MTPJ of the volunteers and patients were analyzed. Diagnostic sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of MRI were calculated using the surgery as the standard of reference. The inter-observer agreement was assessed using kappa analysis.

Results

The central portion of the plantar plate and ligament injury manifested as discontinuity, with an indistinct appearance with hyperintense signal within the involved structures. The sensitivities, specificities, and diagnostic accuracy value of MRI for diagnosing most structures of the capsuloligamentous complex injuries of the first MTPJ were 67%–100%, 93%–100%, and 0.82–0.99, respectively, and overall good to perfect inter-observer agreements (kappa=0.63–0.95).

Conclusion

High-resolution MRI allows adequate visualization of normal anatomic structures of the first MTPJ. The best visualized structure is sesamoid phalangeal ligament and the most frequent injury is complete tear of the medial sesamoid phalangeal ligament.
Effect of Ti–Mg, V microalloying treatment on mechanical properties of HRB400 rebars
Authors: Cheng Jia-hao , Xu Wei-bo , Wang Jing-ling , Tian Jun , Hou Dong , Hu Shao-yan , Li Xiang-Long , Su Li-juan , Fan Lei , Qu Tian-Peng , Wang De-yong
Published: February 2025

Three steels were prepared using Ti–Mg, V and Ti–Mg–V microalloying treatments and rolled into steel plates with a thickness of 20 mm. In this article, the inclusions, second phase particles, grain size and mechanical properties of three steels were studied. It was shown that Mg was able to refine inclusions in steel, and the average sizes of inclusions in Ti–Mg-microalloyed and Ti–Mg–V-microalloyed steels were 2.56 μm and 2.87 μm respectively, which were smaller than the average size of inclusions in V-microalloyed steel (3.58 μm). The austenite grain sizes of Ti–Mg-microalloyed and Ti–Mg–V-microalloyed steels (73.34 μm and 68.70 μm) were significantly smaller than those of V-microalloyed steel (289.38 μm) because of the ability of TiN precipitated at high temperatures to pin austenite. V-microalloyed steel had the largest number of second phase particles with the smallest particle size, resulting in the best precipitation strengthening effect. Ti–Mg-microalloyed steel had TiN particles that grow and had a weakened precipitation strengthening effect. Ti and V tend to form larger sized (Ti, V) (C, N), which reduces the amount of precipitates and thus makes the precipitation strengthening effect weaker.
Thinking (about peace science) in time
Authors: Chenoweth Erica
Published: February 2025

In this Presidential Address, I lay out three research streams in which my findings were valid when published, but which may have been time-bound to a particular period in global history. I identify the period in which major shifts appear to have taken place across all three research areas and speculate as to which changes in the global system may have interfered with the causal processes and mechanisms underlying those findings. I use this exercise as a way of demonstrating the importance of study extensions, inductive practices, descriptive and observational data, and fieldwide synthesis and collaboration in describing the emerging international order in which we now do peace science.
The Role of Instructional Design in the Delivery of Early Science Instruction
Authors: Maddox Steven A. , Gersib Jenna A. , Fall Anna-Maria , Longhi Maria A. , Therrien William J. , Roberts Greg , Phelps Jason B. , Ghafghazi Shadi , Doabler Christian T.
Published: February 2025

A critical tenet of education research is establishing what works. Another is exploring theorized mechanisms of change to help ascertain why academic programs work, for whom, and under which conditions. In other words, unpacking the black boxes of academic programs. This study explored the quality of teachers’ facilitation of (a) scientific investigations and (b) science discourse during and after the implementation of a systematic, explicit second-grade science program (Scientific Explorers-2). Our results demonstrated that relative to comparison classrooms, Scientific Explorers-2 classrooms delivered significantly higher quality scientific investigations. The quality of science discourse and maintenance effects for both measures were not statistically significant, but favored treatment classrooms in each case. Implications for designing science programs that support the delivery of high-quality science instruction that meets the needs of all students, particularly students with or at risk of learning disabilities, are discussed.
Integrating Materiality and Spirituality: Question of Modernity in Rammanohar Lohia’s Political Thought
Authors: Suraj Anoop Kumar , Upendra C.
Published: February 2025

This article discusses the importance of human beings ‘material’ (matter) and ‘spiritual’ (spirit) advancement in Rammanohar Lohia’s concept of modernity and modern civilization. Lohia consistently defended materialism (reason) and spirituality as pivotal human values in his writing and speeches. This article engages with his ideas through a detailed reading of his works, focusing particularly on his essays: ‘Materiality and Spirituality’ and ‘Meaning of Modern Civilisation’. According to him, rational thinking emerges from materialism. He believed spiritual instinct keeps a check on the malicious employment of rationality and science; similarly, rationality prevents the perversion of spirituality into superstition and dogmatism. This article articulates two aspects of interpreting modernity: first, it reframes the epistemological understanding of materialism and spirituality, challenging and clarifying prevailing misconceptions; second, it advocates a comprehensive reconstruction of Indian society, which we understand as praxis. His concept of modernity is an amalgamation of theory and praxis. Lohia unequivocally emphasizes that Indian society would reach the height of development by simultaneously engaging in the spiritual and material development of Indian civilization.
Window Shopping Humans in the Dating Store: What User Bios Tell Us About Online Dating
Authors: Bhattacharya Sreedeep
Published: February 2025

This essay explores certain aspects related to the projection and objectification of the self on dating apps. I explain how romance and intimacy have become a part of a wider consumerist logic—governed by ease of access, multiplicity of choice, frivolous interactions and diminished attention span. In an algorithm-induced mechanism, where human options are quick-swiped like commodities, visual displays and textual descriptions invariably play a significant part in determining choice and getting matches on an anonymous platform. I focus more on the careful curation of the self-image through short descriptions called user bios and what these bios represent not just about the user, but also about a range of other aspects that are integral to app-mediated dating. I argue how several users portray themselves as desirable objects waiting to be consumed and see others as commodities on the shopping window. Using several bios, I reveal how self-objectification also takes the route of overt sexualisation of the self or disdain for that amongst other users. I also argue how self-information announces boredom, disenchantment and doubts about the app to find a suitable match. Finally, I explore the non-obligatory casual nature of this sort of human interaction, where users are entitled to ‘ghost’—disappear without an explanation—making human interactions uncertain.
The contested IPE of green finance
Authors: Newell Peter , Bray Callum
Published: February 2025

In this commentary article, we engage with the papers in the special issue to unpack the categories of ‘green’ and ‘finance’ to surface key concerns within IPE about different forms of power and governance which we suggest are key to assessing the ‘green turn’ in global finance: how it is currently constituted, on whose terms and for what purposes.
Mediating Role of Service Quality in the Relationship Between Self-Determined Study Abroad Motivations and Satisfaction
Authors: Mucsi Attila , Malota Erzsébet
Published: February 2025

This current research explores the relationships among self-determined study abroad motivations, perceived service quality and satisfaction in the field of international higher education. A sample of 426 international students from 56 countries was analyzed via PLS-SEM.

The results show that self-determined motivations positively affect satisfaction, and that perceived service quality partially mediates the effect of self-determined motivations on satisfaction. This research is unique as it provides quantitative evidence that the influence of self-determined study abroad motivations on satisfaction through perceived service quality as a partial mediator is 70% stronger (ß=0.202) than the direct influence (ß=.119) of these motivations on satisfaction.

Students who had a higher level of self-determined motivation rated service quality dimensions higher and subsequently were more satisfied with their experience at the host university and in the host country.

Our insights may help higher education institutions customize their study abroad experience through understanding motivations and service quality requirements.
Integrated Newsrooms: An Examination of Workplace Satisfaction for Black Journalists
Authors: Bramlett-Solomon Sharon , Moody Mia , Platenburg Gheni
Published: February 2025

Using a mixed-methods approach and a Critical Race Theory (CRT) lens, we analyzed the job satisfaction rates of 385 Black journalists and their self-reported racialized experiences. Despite a strong perception of racism among study respondents, they reflected that satisfaction increases with higher levels of appreciation, competitive salaries, newsroom innovation, and an investment in professional development. We identify diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) best practices and tangible methods of improvement and reform in hiring and retention of Black journalists. The study consists of the largest dataset of Black journalists found in the existing scholarly literature.
Powerful victims: A dynamic approach to competitive victimhood between high- and low-power groups
Authors: Bloy Leah , Halperin Eran , Nir Nimrod , Malovicki-Yaffe Nechumi
Published: February 2025

Competitive victimhood has significant implications for intergroup attitudes, including discrimination and hostility. The current two studies reveal the dynamic and context-dependent nature of competitive victimhood. We directly and simultaneously compared competitive victimhood among members of two groups: high-power and low-power. In Study 1, we found that under the transient threat circumstances of COVID-19, the high-power group (secular Israelis) experienced higher levels of competitive victimhood compared to the weaker group (ultra-Orthodox Israelis), indicating that intergroup threat may override group power in determining competitive victimhood. Study 2 further highlighted the dynamic nature of competitive victimhood by revealing, 18 months later, when the COVID-19 situation had changed, a contrasting image of the results obtained in Study 1, demonstrating that relative competitive victimhood levels can shift among the same groups when the transient threat and circumstances change. The findings suggest that competitive victimhood is a more agile and context-dependent construct than previously believed, especially in the context of power dynamics. The current research suggests a unique approach to conducting research: namely, a “mirror study,” in which two different groups provide a detailed reflection of the “same” reality, but through their own unique perspectives.
Transapical to Femoral Through-and-Through Wire Technique for Ruptured Aortic Arch Aneurysm Management: Case Report and Review of Literature
Authors: Ali Ahmed A. , Stana Jan , Becker Daniel , Pichlmaier Maximilian , Tsilimparis Nikolaos
Published: February 2025

Aim:

To present a case where the transapical and femoral accesses were used to establish a through-and-through guidewire to deliver branched arch endograft effectively.

Case:

An 86-year-old male presented with an aortic arch aneurysm rupture was treated with branched arch endograft. Due to tortuous anatomy, several attempts using femoral and axillary routes to navigate the endograft to the proximal landing zone failed. A through-and-through guidewire was established using transapical and femoral accesses to provide sufficient stability for subsequent advancement and delivery of the arch branch endograft.

Conclusion:

Transapical to femoral through-and-through approach is a feasible adjuvant for delivering aortic endografts in emergent cases, particularly in patients with trackability issues and challenging tortuous anatomy. This technique could be a valuable solution for carefully selected patients where conventional approaches are not viable.

Clinical Impact

Transapical access has been widely used in valvular and elective aortic interventions; however, its application in ruptured scenarios is seldom documented. This case report details the utilisation of transapical access in a ruptured aortic arch aneurysm with a tortuous aorta, where femoral and axillary access have proven inadequate. Establishing a transapical to transfemoral through-and-through wire has provided enhanced stability for precise endograft deployment. Procedural details and outcomes, alongside a review of the literature, underscore the use of transapical access and through-and-through wire in managing complex ruptured pathologies, addressing gaps in the literature concerning its efficacy and safety in urgent high-risk scenarios.
Cognitive Problems: Epilepsy's Hidden Challenge
Authors: Aungaroon Gewalin
Published: February 2025

[Box: see text]
The Paradox of Powerlessness: Narratives of Violence Among Israeli Women Who Were Violent Towards Their Male Partners
Authors: Pitcho Shani , Possick Chaya , Ron Moran , Wilchek-Aviad Yael
Published: February 2025

This study investigates female-perpetrated violence through in-depth semi-structured interviews with nine Israeli women who had been physically and psychologically violent towards their male partners. Using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis, two key themes emerged: “powerless victims” and “powerless perpetrators.” Participants described their behavior as erratic and out of control, rooted in a profound sense of lost self and powerlessness. Applying Simone de Beauvoir’s existentialist perspective, the findings reveal that these women felt ensnared by a victim mentality, which clouded their awareness of the harm they inflicted and obstructed their path to independence and self-reliance. Breaking free from oppression reveals a new path.
Load peak intensity in pre-season training sessions and official competitions in professional soccer
Authors: Le Page Nicolas , Link Daniel
Published: February 2025

This single case study compares load peak intensity (LPI) in pre-season training sessions and official matches in professional soccer. This aims to answer the question whether the pre-season training sessions of one selected team adequately prepared for the peak demands of the season. Therefore, spatiotemporal data of 8 professional male soccer players was collected using a radio-based local positioning system in training (KINEXON) and a video-based tracking system in Bundesliga competitions (TRACAB). Load peaks were determined based on the distance covered (DC) during Acceleration, Deceleration and Sprinting phases. For each parameter, our algorithm quantifies the LPI by using the maximum rolling average value for time intervals of 1, 3, and 5 min within a training session or a match. The results on team level indicate that LPI for Acceleration was significantly higher in pre-season training sessions compared to matches (for 3-min interval: DCTR = 22.59 m ± 3.06 m, DCMA = 18.38 m ± 3.08 m, d = 1.97, p < 0.01). In contrast, LPI regarding Deceleration was significantly lower in pre-season training compared to matches (for 3-min interval: DCTR = 20.8 m ± 2.65 m, DCMA = 23.15 m ± 3.17 m, d = −1.29, p < 0.01). This suggests that exercises focused more on acceleration situations and less on deceleration situations. However, analysis on an individual level shows a considerably high variability of load peak intensity between players during both periods. We conclude that individual load monitoring is an essential component of training management. Practitioners are especially advised to carefully examine the worst-case scenarios of Deceleration during pre-season to avoid falling short on load requirements and adequately prepare players for match demands.
How to advance the pharmacological management of cognitive impairment in Parkinson's disease
Authors: Abdelnour Carla , Gibson Lucy L , Batzu Lucia , Aarsland Dag
Published: February 2025

Cognitive impairment is a common non-motor symptom in people with Parkinson's disease (PD) and is associated to poor clinical outcomes. Currently, rivastigmine is the only approved medication for PD dementia, and there are no treatments available for people with PD and mild cognitive impairment. To advance the pharmacological management of cognitive impairment in PD, it is essential to optimize clinical trial design. This includes refining cognitive outcome measures, ensuring longer study durations, and incorporating PD-specific cognitive assessments. Biomarkers offer valuable opportunities for screening, stratification, enrichment, and monitoring in trials, increasing the likelihood of detecting treatment effects. Additionally, adopting patient-centered approaches that prioritize inclusivity can enhance trial validity and address the current lack of diversity in PD studies. Digital cognitive assessments offer a promising tool for improving participation and enabling longitudinal monitoring, especially in underrepresented and mobility-challenged populations. By tackling these challenges, this review outlines strategies for advancing the pharmacological management of cognitive impairment in PD. It emphasizes the need for precise, inclusive, and biomarker-driven trials to accelerate drug development.
Redefining ‘state’ and ‘market’
Authors: Potts Shaina
Published: February 2025

In a moment of substantial changes in state economic policy around the world, Alami's analysis of the recent proliferation of foreign investment screening mechanisms contributes empirically and conceptually to heated debates about the future of globalization, including the urgent task of understanding law's role in mediating shifting state–capital relations. This commentary situates Alami's account in comparison to changes in foreign sovereign immunity law since the 1950s in order to add further weight to some of his key arguments, while also suggesting areas for more elaboration with respect to the intersection of law, neoliberalism, and (US) power.
Diagnosis of Turner syndrome after presenting with ischemic cardiomyopathy: A case report
Authors: Zheng Hui , Guo Liting , Wei Yanwei , Zhang Yunqiang , Guan Yanfang
Published: February 2025

Untreated Turner syndrome increases the risk of ischemic cardiomyopathy. We report a 44-year-old Chinese woman who was diagnosed with Turner syndrome owing to symptoms of ischemic cardiomyopathy and heart failure confirmed through cardiac magnetic resonance imaging, coronary angiography, and abnormal brain natriuretic peptide levels. The patient had a short stature, underdeveloped uterus with primary amenorrhea, and congenital left upper pulmonary vein reflux to the right atrium; she was diagnosed with Turner syndrome through karyotype analysis. Because she refused coronary artery bypass grafting, she received aspirin, torasemide, atorvastatin, bisoprolol, sacubitril/valsartan, empagliflozin, spironolactone, and complex packing estradiol tablets/estradiol and dydrogesterone tablets (1–10 mg). After 3 months of treatment, her heart failure symptoms disappeared. Ischemic heart disease is a high-risk complication in patients with Turner syndrome. Prompt diagnosis and comprehensive management through a multidisciplinary approach can improve patient outcomes. Further evidence is needed to establish a secondary prevention strategy for Turner syndrome with ischemic cardiomyopathy.
Resveratrol-loaded PCL-PEG/GO/HAP biocomposite bone membranes: Evaluation of mechanical properties, release kinetics, and cellular response
Authors: Arpacay Betül Meryem , Ciftci Fatih , Özarslan Ali Can , Unal Mustafa , Kucak Mine , Yelkenci Aslihan
Published: February 2025

In this study, biocomposite membranes were developed by incorporating resveratrol (RSV)-loaded PCL-PEG composites, modified with graphene oxide (GO) and hydroxyapatite (HAP). The aim was to enhance hydrophilicity with GO and improve bioactivity with HAP. The release kinetics of RSV was evaluated by using Franz diffusion cells and compared with various kinetic models, including Korsmeyer-Peppas, Higuchi, and Baker, all of which showed high correlation coefficients ( R²) close to 0.99. Mechanical tests was performed to determine the suitability of these membranes for tissue engineering applications. The composite membrane modified with GO and HAP exhibited tensile strength of 105.2 ± 5.8 MPa, tensile modulus of 3895 ± 159 MPa, elongation at break of 8.4 ± 0.9%, and toughness of 5.88 ± 0.46 MJ/m³. In vitro cell adhesion studies, visualized using DAPI fluorescence staining, demonstrated increased cell adhesion to the composite membranes over periods of 1, 3, 5, 7, and 14 days. These findings highlight the potential of the RSV-loaded PCL-PEG membranes, enhanced with GO and HAP, for applications in bone tissue engineering.
From Middle Jurassic extension to Late Jurassic obduction: sedimentary records from the Greater Adriatic margin of the Neotethys Ocean in NE Hungary
Authors: Kövér Szilvia , Haas János , Djerić Nevenka , Szives Ottilia , Ozsvárt Péter , Fodor László
Published: February 2025

A displaced segment of the Late Triassic–Late Jurassic Greater Adriatic margin of the Neotethy Ocean was investigated in NE Hungary. In this area, the Mesozoic basement is largely covered by the Palaeogene—Miocene infill of the North Hungarian Palaeogene Basin and the Pannonian Basin. Micropaleontological, sedimentological and structural investigation of more than thirty wells resulted in the detailed characterisation and 3D depositional model of the area, which may have formed in the eastern continuation of the Slovenian Basin or in a similar sub-basin. The sedimentation in its Bajocian–early Callovian extensional half-grabens was characterised by pelagic limestones followed by dark shales with sandstone intercalations. Mass-flow deposits derived from both the footwalls of graben-bounding normal faults and the Adriatic Carbonate Platform were frequent. The most basin-ward segment of the latter one was penetrated by the south-westernmost well of the area. Both the Middle Jurassic extension of the formerly extended continental crust and the lower plate source of the sediments have great importance, while they change the tectonic interpretation of the basins. In the overlying Tarna olistostrome sedimentation lasted at least until the Tithonian, as indicated by nannofossils. This is the oldest possible age for the overthrusting of the ophiolite nappe over this segment of the Greater Adriatic continental margin. The now eroded ophiolite nappe is underlain by the Darnóhegy Mélange, a typical sub-ophiolitic mélange, which was formed further to the south-east during the Callovian–Oxfordian, at an earlier, intraoceanic stage of the Neotethyan subduction.
Conventional type 1 dendritic cells in the lymph nodes aggravate neuroinflammation after spinal cord injury by promoting CD8+ T cell expansion
Authors: Wang Li-Qing , Wang Xiao-Yi , Ma Yue-Hui , Zhou Heng-Jun
Published: February 2025

Background

Adaptive immune response is at the core of the mechanism of secondary spinal cord injury (SCI). This study aims to explore the molecular mechanism by which classical dendritic cells (cDC1s) influence CD8+ T cell expansion in SCI.

Methods

Peripheral blood samples from patients with SCI and spinal cord tissues from SCI mice were collected, and the population of cDC1 subset was analyzed by flow cytometry. In vivo, the fms-like tyrosine kinase 3 (Flt3) inhibitor quizartinib was administered to deplete cDC1s, while intraperitoneal injection of recombinant Flt3L and immunosuppressive drug FTY-720 was used to expand cDC1s and prevent T cell egress from lymph nodes (LNs), respectively. In vitro, the conditioned medium (CM) of isolated LN fibroblastic stromal cells (FSCs) and pre-DCs were co-cultured. Subsequently, FSC CM-induced DCs were stimulated and co-cultured with CD8+ T cells for proliferation assay.

Results

The cDC1 subset was increased in the peripheral blood of SCI patients and in the injured spinal cord of SCI mice. Depletion of cDC1s decreased the proportion of infiltrating CD8+ T cells in the injured spinal cord of SCI mice and reduced the inflammatory response. The Basso Mouse Scale score of SCI mice was increased and the proportion of CD8+ T cells in blood and spinal cord tissue was decreased after FTY-720 injection. Both migratory cDC1s (CD103+) and resident cDC1s (CD8α+) were present in the LNs surrounding the injured spinal cord of SCI mice. Among them, CD103+ cells were derived from the migration of cDC1s in spinal cord tissues, and CD8α+ cDC1s were directionally differentiated from pre-DCs after co-culture with LN-FSCs. Interferon-γ promoted the secretion of Flt3L by LN-FSCs through the activation of JAK/STAT signaling pathway and enhanced the differentiation of pre-DCs into CD8α+ cells.

Conclusion

Migratory cDC1s and resident cDC1s promote the expansion of CD8+ T cells in LNs around the injured spinal cord and mediate the adaptive immune response to aggravate neuroinflammation in SCI.
NUAK1 acts as a novel regulator of PD-L1 via activating GSK-3β/β-catenin pathway in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Yao Chao-Yan , Tao Hang-Tian , He Jin-Jin , Zhu Feng-Yi , Xie Cui-Qing , Cheng Yu-Na , Li Ji-Qin , Liu Zhuang-Zhuang , Hou Chun-Yu , Liu Xue-Li , Fan Yong-Li , Fang Dong , Lv Xin-Rui
Published: February 2025

Background

NUAK1 is associated with metastasis and drug resistance in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, little is known about the immune functions of NUAK1 in HCC. Therefore, the aim of this study was to elucidate the novel role of NUAK1 in facilitating immune evasion in HCC and to investigate the mechanisms underpinning this process.

Method

The levels of NUAK1 expression and the infiltration of CD8+ T cells were assessed in tumor tissues from HCC patients and mice xenograft model. HCC cell lines were used to validate the role of NUAK1 in regulating the transcription of PD-L1, the diethylnitrosamine-induced HCC model was established and the expression levels of NUAK1 and PD-L1 proteins in the rat livers were detected. Western blotting, immunofluorescence, real time PCR, and immunohistochemical staining were used to investigate the underlying mechanisms by which NUAK1 regulates PD-L1 expression in hepatocellular carcinoma.

Results

NUAK1 expression was negatively correlated with CD8+ T cell infiltration in tumor tissues from HCC patients and mice xenograft model. Both gain and loss of functions have identified NUAK1 promoted PD-L1 expression at transcriptional level in HCC cells. The increased expression of NUAK1 and PD-L1 proteins were observed in the rat livers of diethylnitrosamine-induced HCC model. Moreover, overexpression of NUAK1 promotes GSK3β Ser9 phosphorylation, β-catenin expression and nuclear accumulation in HCC cells. By contrast, knockdown of NUAK1 has opposite effects. Inhibition of GSK3β activity significantly promoted β-catenin expression and PD-L1 expression in HCC cells. IHC analyses of tumor tissues from HCC patients suggested that the levels of p-GSK3β and β-catenin were positively correlated with NUAK1 expression. Knockdown of β-catenin also reversed NUAK1-mediated PD-L1 expression in HCC cells.

Conclusions

This study revealed a novel role for NUAK1, which promotes the transcriptional expression of PD-L1 by activating GSK3β/β-catenin signaling pathway, leading to immune escape of hepatocellular carcinoma.

Registry and the registration no. of the study/trial: Not applicable.
Patient and parent satisfaction after surgical repair of concealed penis in children
Authors: Mehrez Amr , El Gamal Osama , Omar Mohamed Adel , Elmaadawy Mohamed , Nagla Salah
Published: February 2025

Background

Concealed penis in children is a morbid condition that needs special attention due to its negative psychological impact on both parents and patients. It represents a unique challenge due to the multifactorial nature of its etiology that requires different surgical approaches tailored to each case. The aim of this study was to evaluate parents’ satisfaction after surgical repair of concealed penis in children.

Methods

The study was carried out on male patients, aged < 18 years, diagnosed with concealed penis. All patients were subjected to repair of concealed penis. Adolescents and parents’ satisfaction were measured 3 months after concealed penis repair by 4 tools including a pre-validated questionnaire to evaluate outcome of the surgical treatment, the pediatric penile perception score for penile morphology, the patient’s global impressions of improvement scale, and rating the satisfaction with the final penile appearance by an expert independent urologist.

Results

There was a significant negative correlation between the age of children and the global impressions of improvement (r =  0.358; P = 0.038) (better levels of parents’ satisfaction are associated with lower age group of children). The mean exposed penile length was significantly higher after surgical correction of concealed penis (P =  < 0.001). Postoperative satisfaction with penile morphology according to obesity and circumcision before surgical repair was significantly different between patients (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

Surgical repair of concealed penis generally has high rate of excellent surgical outcomes. It has good cosmetic results with low rate of postoperative complications and achieve high grades of parents satisfaction.
Predictors of sickness absence among employees with common mental disorders in Sweden– a longitudinal study
Authors: Frantz Anna , Toropova Anna , Axén Iben , Bergström Gunnar , Finnes Anna , Björk Brämberg Elisabeth
Published: February 2025

Background

The study aimed to explore which sociodemographic, health-related, and work-related factors were associated with the number of sickness absence days during 18 months among employees on sickness absence due to common mental disorders.

Methods

A longitudinal study with participants from a cluster-randomized controlled trial was conducted. Participants from both intervention and control groups were treated as one cohort. Factors included in the analysis were sociodemographic, health-related, and work-related variables collected through questionnaires at baseline. The outcome was cumulative net sickness absence days for sickness absence spells exceeding 14 days and was collected from a national register. Data was analyzed using generalized estimating equations.

Results

The sample consisted of 197 employees. Lower-rated work ability in relation to physical demands ([exp (B) 1.19], 95% CI 1.02–1.40) and higher-rated job demands ([exp (B) 1.28], 95% CI 1.01–1.61), were associated with increased number of sickness absence days during the 18 months follow-up. Higher certainty of return to work within three months ([exp (B) 0.63], 95% CI 0.48–0.83) was associated with a decreased number of sickness absence days during the 18 months follow-up.

Conclusions

Our study suggests that work-related factors, i.e., high job demands and impaired work ability, are associated with an increased number of days on sickness absence. Additionally, the certainty of returning to work within three months is associated with fewer days on sickness absence. The results highlight the importance of addressing specific workplace factors when designing interventions aimed at decreasing sickness absence for employees on sickness absence due to CMDs. The results could be used to inform a dialogue between healthcare personnel and employees on sickness absence due to CMDs, and to serve as basis for a structured inventory to assist healthcare personnel in addressing workplace factors.
Physician associate (PA) students’ perceptions of team-based learning (TBL) for teaching in Geriatric medicine
Authors: Aweid Basaam , Parnis Natalie , Harrison David
Published: February 2025

Background

Physician Associates have recently been introduced to the UK healthcare workforce. Their curriculum includes important topics in Geriatric medicine. As they undertake a 2-year intensive postgraduate course we wanted to explore if Team-based Learning is an effective and efficient learning strategy. In addition, we wanted to know how this approach compares to their current learning methods, namely Problem-based learning and lectures.

Methods

This was a qualitative study of Physician associate student perceptions of Team-Based Learning. After introducing four TBL sessions in the specialty of Geriatric medicine we sent students anonymous questionnaires asking them about their TBL experience and how it compared to PBL and lectures. We then undertook a thematic analysis of the responses.

Results

Twenty students responded to our online questionnaire. The thematic analysis utilised themes from previous studies as well as emergent ones. The key themes were that TBL requires more preparation, TBL is effective, TBL is preferred to PBL and lectures, but students did not want TBL to replace all their teaching.

Conclusions

TBL is an effective learning strategy that can be used alongside other teaching methods. While Physician Associate students preferred TBL over PBL and lectures, they wanted to have TBL alongside lectures at least. This information is important when planning teaching for an intensive 2-year course.
Engineering a bacterial toxin deaminase from the DYW-family into a novel cytosine base editor for plants and mammalian cells
Authors: Zhang Dingbo , Parth Fiona , da Silva Laura Matos , Ha Teng-Cheong , Schambach Axel , Boch Jens
Published: February 2025

Base editors are precise editing tools that employ deaminases to modify target DNA bases. The DYW-family of cytosine deaminases is structurally and phylogenetically distinct and might be harnessed for genome editing tools. We report a novel CRISPR/Cas9-cytosine base editor using SsdA, a DYW-like deaminase and bacterial toxin. A G103S mutation in SsdA enhances C-to-T editing efficiency while reducing its toxicity. Truncations result in an extraordinarily small enzyme. The SsdA-base editor efficiently converts C-to-T in rice and barley protoplasts and induces mutations in rice plants and mammalian cells. The engineered SsdA is a highly efficient genome editing tool.