bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Attitudes and perspectives of healthcare workers on treating chronic hepatitis C infection in children and adolescents
Authors: Malik Farihah , Easterbrook Philippa , Indolfi Giuseppe , Thorne Claire
Published: January 2025

Background and aims

There are gaps in knowledge about the values and preferences of healthcare workers (HCW) with respect to treatment of children and adolescents living with chronic hepatitis C (HCV) infection. This study was carried out to identify these values and preferences as part of the evidence required to update World Health Organization (WHO) hepatitis C guidelines.

Methods

An online survey was designed and conducted during August/September 2021. Survey questions were developed to address two key questions about treatment of children and adolescents: who to treat, and which direct acting antiviral (DAA) regimens to use. The survey was circulated by the WHO to nine networks providing care to children and adolescents living with HCV infection, with respondents requested to cascade further within their networks.

Results

A total of 137 individuals from 38 countries responded to the survey. There was a trend toward higher preference for treating children of older age groups; 60% of respondents reported a strong preference for treating (i.e., stating they were very likely or likely to treat) children aged 3 to <6 years, 81 and 95% indicated strong preferences for treating those aged 6 to <12 years and 12 to <18 years, respectively. The most preferred DAA regimens for treatment across all age groups were: sofosbuvir/velpatasvir (SOF/VEL), sofosbuvir/ledipasvir (SOF/LDV), and glecaprevir/pibrentasvir (GLE/PIB). These were also reported to be the most commonly available drug regimens at respondents’ facilities.

Conclusion

This survey provides insights from a heterogenous sample of HCWs from across the world with respect to their expressed priorities and preferences for the treatment of children and adolescents with chronic HCV.
Assessment of post-partum physical exercise practice and its associated factors among women in postpartum period, in West Wollega zone, Oromia, Ethiopia
Authors: Yadeta Tegegne , Belema Daniel , Ahmad Seifedin , Sirage Nurye , Ali Abubeker Seid , Ali Kedir , Yimer Ali
Published: January 2025

Background

The postnatal period, spanning the initial 6 weeks after childbirth, brings about a range of difficulties for mothers globally, encompassing psychological, physiological, and biological shifts. Incorporating regular physical activity during this phase has demonstrated the potential to mitigate the chances of chronic metabolic disorders. Nevertheless, there is a lack of comprehensive understanding regarding women’s engagement in postpartum physical exercise during this time.

Methods

The research employed a community-based cross-sectional study design carried out between April 20 and May 20, 2023. A sample of 422 women was chosen through a simple random sampling method utilizing computer-generated random numbers. The data was inputted into Epi-Data 4.6 and processed with SPSS 26. Descriptive statistics and logistic regression were employed for the analysis. Variables with a p-value below 0.25 in the bi-variable analysis were included in the multivariable analysis, and those with a p-value under 0.05 in the multivariable analysis were considered as significantly associated factors. The results were presented using graphs and tables.

Result

This research involved 416 women, achieving a response rate of 98.6%. The prevalence of postpartum physical exercise practice among the participants was determined to be 19.5% (95% CI: 12.03–22.50). Several factors were independently associated with postpartum physical exercise practice: Women with a college education or higher had nearly three times greater odds of engaging in postpartum physical exercise (AOR = 2.97, 95% CI: 1.14, 7.80). Being employed in a government institution was associated with a 2.14 times higher likelihood of participating in postpartum physical exercise (AOR = 2.14; 95% CI: 1.96, 4.74). Primipara women had 2.8 times higher odds of practicing postpartum physical exercise (AOR = 2.80, 95% CI: 1.72, 4.59). Women who had exercised before pregnancy were more likely to continue postpartum physical exercise, with 5.1 times higher odds (AOR = 5.10; 95% CI: 2.78, 9.29). Possessing good knowledge about postpartum physical exercise was associated with 2.3 times greater odds of engaging in such exercise (AOR = 2.30; 95% CI: 1.20, 4.40).

Conclusion

The study indicates that the majority of participants were not participating in postpartum physical exercise. Nevertheless, women with higher levels of education, government jobs, primipara mothers, prior exercise experience before pregnancy, and a good knowledge of postpartum physical exercise were more inclined to engage in it. These results underscore the need to increase awareness among healthcare providers and other relevant organizations about the advantages of postpartum physical exercise in preventing complications during the postpartum phase.
What factors influence the willingness and intensity of regular mobile physical activity?— A machine learning analysis based on a sample of 290 cities in China
Authors: Shen Hao , Shu Bo , Zhang Jian , Liu Yaoqian , Li Ali
Published: January 2025

Introduction

This study, based on Volunteered Geographic Information (VGI) and multi-source data, aims to construct an interpretable macro-scale analytical framework to explore the factors influencing urban physical activities. Using 290 prefecture-level cities in China as samples, it investigates the impact of socioeconomic, geographical, and built environment factors on both overall physical activity levels and specific types of mobile physical activities.

Methods

Machine learning methods were employed to analyze the data systematically. Socioeconomic, geographical, and built environment indicators were used as explanatory variables to examine their influence on activity willingness and activity intensity across different types of physical activities (e.g., running, walking, cycling). Interaction effects and non-linear patterns were also assessed.

Results

The study identified three key findings: (1) A significant difference exists between the influencing factors of activity willingness and activity intensity. Socioeconomic factors primarily drive activity willingness, whereas geographical and built environment factors have a stronger influence on activity intensity. (2) The effects of influencing factors vary significantly by activity type. Low-threshold activities (e.g., walking) tend to amplify both promotional and inhibitory effects of the factors. (3) Some influencing factors display typical non-linear effects, consistent with findings from micro-scale studies.

Discussion

The findings provide comprehensive theoretical support for understanding and optimizing physical activity among urban residents. Based on these results, the study proposes guideline-based macro-level intervention strategies aimed at improving urban physical activity through effective public resource allocation. These strategies can assist policymakers in developing more scientific and targeted approaches to promote physical activity.
The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Communication Dynamics and Performance in Organizational Leadership
Authors: Florea Nicoleta Valentina , Croitoru Gabriel
Published: January 2025

This study explores the impact of artificial intelligence (AI)-based technologies on leadership-based organizational communication and employee performance within contemporary workplaces. While prior research has acknowledged AI’s potential in optimizing communication processes, significant gaps remain in understanding its specific influence on core communication dimensions and organizational outcomes. This study addresses these gaps by examining six key communication elements—informing, message reception, feedback, acceptance, persuasion, and reaction—to assess whether AI technologies significantly enhance employee performance by improving internal communication efficiency and reducing transmission errors, which are crucial for productive interactions. Using a quantitative approach, data were collected via a self-administered questionnaire from 203 employees of a major Romanian food industry company operating globally, including leaders and employees from three Eastern European countries. Partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) was employed to analyze the relationships between communication dimensions and performance. The findings revealed that informing, receiving, and accepting messages, along with reaction-provoking, had strong positive effects on performance, while feedback and persuasion showed moderate impacts. These results emphasize the transformative role of AI in communication processes, optimizing message flow and positively influencing employee behavior, thereby enhancing productivity and organizational efficiency. This research contributes to the growing body of literature by situating AI-driven communication within the broader organizational context, offering actionable insights for managers aiming to integrate AI ethically and effectively. Additionally, it offers a set of recommendations for employees and managers to lead communication process according to the new actual era of digitization, which is offering real benefits for both parts. It also provides a robust foundation for future research, encouraging longitudinal and cross-cultural studies to further investigate AI’s implications for organizational diversity, innovation, and employee well-being.
Effects of Bacillus amyloliquefaciens FD777 and Macleaya cordata Extract on Performance, Immunity, Gastrointestinal System Microbiome, and Profitability in Holstein Calves
Authors: Küçükoflaz Mehmet , Özbek Veli , Güçlü Berrin Kocaoğlu , Sarıözkan Savaş , Zaman Can İsmail , Aydın Erol , Makav Mustafa , Beyzi Selma Büyükkılıç , Öztaş Sena Yılmaz , Akın Merve Ayyıldız
Published: January 2025

This study was performed to determine the effects of dietary supplementation of Bacillus amyloliquefaciens FD777 (BA) and Macleaya cordata extract (MCE) on the performance, morbidity and mortality rates, body measurements, immunity, rumen parameters, antioxidant parameters, microbiome level, and profitability of calves during the pre-weaning period. In the study, 51 calves were divided into three groups as one control and two treatment groups considering their age (1 day old), gender (nine females and eight males in each group), and birth weight (37.7 ± 0.4 kg). The calves in the control group (CON) were fed milk without supplements whereas the first treatment group (BA) was fed milk containing 10 mL/day/head of Bacillus amyloliquefaciens FD777 and the second treatment group (MCE) was fed milk containing 2 g/day/head of MCE. As a result, supplementing BA and MCE to calf milk had no significant effect on body weight (BW), dry matter intake (DMI), feed efficiency (FE), morbidity and mortality rates, rumen pH, IgG, IgA, and IgM values, and gastrointestinal microbiota (p > 0.05). On the other hand, it was determined that body weight gain (BWG), body length, body depth, rump width, withers height change, rump height change, rump width change, and serum GSH level increased significantly in the BA group compared to the control group (p < 0.05). According to the partial budget analysis, despite the additional cost of supplementing BA to the calf milk, no calf deaths and lower disease were observed in this group, unlike the other groups, resulting in a lowest calf rearing cost and highest profit. In calves receiving MCE, withers height, rump height, body length, rump width, body depth, chest circumference change, withers height change, rump height change, and rump width change values increased significantly compared with the control group (p < 0.05). In conclusion, the results obtained not only reveal the positive effects of BA and MCE on calves during the pre-weaning period, but also encourage the necessity of investigating their effects on the long-term performance of animals and farm economies.
Ionic Doping of Hydroxyapatite for Bone Regeneration: Advances in Structure and Properties over Two Decades—A Narrative Review
Authors: Kubiak-Mihkelsoo Zuzanna , Kostrzębska Agnieszka , Błaszczyszyn Artur , Pitułaj Artur , Dominiak Marzena , Gedrange Tomasz , Nawrot-Hadzik Izabela , Matys Jacek , Hadzik Jakub
Published: January 2025

Autogenous grafts remain the “gold standard” in bone tissue grafting procedures; however, limitations such as donor site morbidity, invasiveness, and limited availability have spurred research into alternative materials. Hydroxyapatite (HA), a widely used bioceramic, is known for its bioactivity and biocompatibility. Nonetheless, its inherent brittleness and porosity necessitate modifications to enhance its mechanical and functional properties. Ionic doping has emerged as a transformative strategy to improve the properties of HA by integrating ions such as strontium (Sr2+), magnesium (Mg2+), and zinc (Zn2+). These dopants influence HA’s crystal structure, morphology, and solubility, resulting in enhanced bioactivity, accelerated bone mineralization, and improved mechanical properties, such as increased fracture resistance and wear durability. Additionally, antimicrobial properties can be achieved through the inclusion of silver ions (Ag+), reducing the risk of peri-implant infections. This review focuses on the effects of ionic doping on the structure and functionality of hydroxyapatite, emphasizing advancements in tailoring its properties to clinical needs. By consolidating two decades of research, this study highlights how ionic doping bridges the gap between synthetic biomaterials and native bone, unlocking new potential in regenerative medicine and orthopedic applications.
The Influence of Wind Speed on Pneumatic Conveying Characteristics of Solid Feed in Horizontal Pipe by Simulation and Experiment
Authors: Wang Chengming , Jiao Shihui , Wang Zhuoyao , Guo Pengfei , Ma Hao , Li Baojun , Zhang Weiwei , Lv Wei , Fu Xingyuan , Wang Shuaihao , Dong Chenkai , Guo Ge , Wang Hongyang
Published: January 2025

Pneumatic conveying technology is an efficient, energy-saving and environmentally friendly means of solid feed conveying. In the process of pneumatic conveying, wind speed has a decisive influence on conveying characteristics. Here, computational fluid dynamics coupled with a discrete element method simulation and experiment were combined, and the conveying wind speed was used as the experimental variable to study the conveying characteristics of the conveying material in the tube, such as particle distribution state, solid phase mass concentration, coupling force on solid feed, average speed and pressure drop of solid feed in the pipe. The results show that when the conveying wind speed increases from 18 m/s to 20.6 m/s, the solid feed changes from sedimentary flow to suspended flow, the particle accumulation gradually decreases and the conveying efficiency is significantly improved. The particle slug greatly reduces the collision and friction between the internal particles and the pipe and reduces the crushing rate to a certain extent. When the conveying wind speed is about 23.2 m/s, there are almost no trapped particles in the pipeline, which can achieve rapid feed delivery, and conveying efficiency is greatly improved. Therefore, this paper provides a good theoretical basis for improving conveying efficiency and reducing crushing rate in the process of pneumatic conveying.
Preclinical Insights into the Role of Kir4.1 in Chronic Pain and Depression: Mechanisms and Therapeutic Potential
Authors: Zha Tingfeng , Fang Xinyi , Wan Jiamin , Chen Xiaoyan , Lin Jiu , Chen Qianming
Published: January 2025

Chronic pain and mental health disorders, such as depression and anxiety, frequently co-occur and share underlying mechanisms involving neuronal excitability and synaptic transmission. The inwardly rectifying potassium channel 4.1 (Kir4.1), predominantly expressed in glial cells, is crucial for maintaining extracellular potassium and glutamate homeostasis. Dysregulation of Kir4.1 leads to altered neuronal activity, contributing to both chronic pain and mental health disorders. In chronic pain, downregulation of Kir4.1 impairs potassium buffering and glutamate clearance, increasing neuronal excitability and enhancing pain signaling through peripheral and central sensitization. In mental health disorders, impaired Kir4.1 function disrupts neurotrophic factor secretion and neuroinflammatory pathways, leading to mood disturbances. This review primarily summarizes findings from preclinical studies to examine the relationship between Kir4.1 and the pathogenesis of chronic pain and mental health disorders, discussing its molecular structure, expression patterns, and functional roles. Furthermore, we explore therapeutic strategies targeting Kir4.1, including pharmacological modulators and gene therapy approaches, emphasizing its potential as a novel therapeutic target.
Chrysin Attenuates Gentamicin-Induced Renal Injury in Rats Through Modulation of Oxidative Damage and Inflammation via Regulation of Nrf2/AKT and NF-kB/KIM-1 Pathways
Authors: Albukhari Talat A. , Bagadood Rehab M. , Bokhari Bayan T. , Filimban Waheed A. , Sembawa Hatem , Nasreldin Nani , Gadalla Hossam E. , El-Boshy Mohamed E.
Published: January 2025

Background: Gentamicin (GM) is extensively used as an antibiotic for the treatment of infections caused by Gram-negative bacteria. Oxidative stress and proinflammatory cytokines are implicated in GM-induced renal damage. Chrysin (CH), also known as 5,7-dihydroxyflavone, has been used in traditional medicine to treat various kidney disorders. The aim of this study was to investigate the antioxidant, anti-apoptotic, and anti-inflammatory effects of CH against nephrotoxicity induced by GM. Methods: Male rats were separated into four equal groups: a negative control group (NC), a CH-treated group (100 mg/kg/day per os), a group treated with GM (100 mg/kg/day IM), and a group treated with both GM and CH (100 mg/kg/day), for 10 days. Blood and urine renal markers were investigated. Results: GM caused increases in the serum creatinine and urea levels and decreases in creatinine clearance, urine flow, and urine volume in the GM-treated rats. Moreover, there were increases in the levels of IL-1β, TNF-α, IL-18, and MDA in the renal tissues, with an augmented expression of NF-κB/KIM-1, as well as decreases in antioxidant marker (GSH, GPx, CAT, and SOD) activities and decreased expressions of the anti-inflammatory transcription factors Nrf2 and AKT. The simultaneous treatment with CH in the GM-treated group protected renal tissues against the nephrotoxicity induced by GM, as demonstrated by the normalization of renal markers and improvement in histopathological damage. Conclusions: This study reveals that CH may attenuate GM-induced renal toxicity in rats.
Eyes on the Pupil Size: Pupillary Response During Sentence Processing in Aphasia
Authors: Sen Christina , Abbott Noelle , Akhavan Niloofar , Baker Carolyn , Love Tracy
Published: January 2025

Background/Objectives: Individuals with chronic agrammatic aphasia demonstrate real-time sentence processing difficulties at the lexical and structural levels. Research using time-sensitive measures, such as priming and eye-tracking, have associated these difficulties with temporal delays in accessing semantic representations that are needed in real time during sentence structure building. In this study, we examined the real-time processing effort linked to sentence processing in individuals with aphasia and neurotypical, age-matched control participants as measured through pupil reactivity (i.e., pupillometry). Specifically, we investigated whether a semantically biased lexical cue (i.e., adjective) influences the processing effort while listening to complex noncanonical sentences. Methods: In this eye-tracking while listening study (within-subjects design), participants listened to sentences that either contained biased or unbiased adjectives (e.g., venomous snake vs. voracious snake) while viewing four images, three related to nouns in the sentence and one unrelated, but a plausible match for the unbiased adjective. Pupillary responses were collected every 17 ms throughout the entire sentence. Results: While age-matched controls demonstrated increased pupil response throughout the course of the sentence, individuals with aphasia showed a plateau in pupil response early on in the sentence. Nevertheless, both controls and individuals with aphasia demonstrated reduced processing effort in the biased adjective condition. Conclusions: Individuals with aphasia are sensitive to lexical–semantic cues despite impairments in real-time lexical activation during sentence processing.
The Impact of Chatbot Response Strategies and Emojis Usage on Customers’ Purchase Intention: The Mediating Roles of Psychological Distance and Performance Expectancy
Authors: Meng Hua , Lu Xinyuan , Xu Jiangling
Published: January 2025

Artificial intelligence (AI) chatbots have been widely adopted in customer service, playing a crucial role in improving service efficiency, enhancing user experience, and elevating satisfaction levels. Current research on the impact of chatbots on consumers’ purchase decisions primarily focuses on linguistic communication features, with limited exploration into the non-verbal social cues employed by chatbots. By conducting three scenario-based experiments, this study investigates the mechanisms through which chatbot response strategies (proactive vs. reactive) and the use of emojis (yes vs. no) influence users’ purchase intention. The findings suggest that proactive response strategies by chatbots are more effective in strengthening users’ purchase intention compared to reactive strategies. Psychological distance and performance expectancy serve as significant mediators in this relationship. Additionally, the use of emojis moderates the effect of chatbot response strategies on psychological distance, while its moderating effect on performance expectancy is not significant. This study offers new insights into non-verbal social cues in chatbots, revealing the psychological mechanisms underlying the influence of chatbot response strategies on users’ purchase decisions and contributing to the limited evidence on visual symbols as moderating factors. Furthermore, the findings provide practical recommendations for businesses on optimizing chatbot interaction strategies to enhance user experience.
Empiric Results from the Successful Implementation of Data-Driven Innovative Energy Services in Buildings
Authors: Aranda Juan , Mselle Boniface Dominick , Cruz Juliana , Rqiq Yassine , Longares Jose Manuel
Published: January 2025

The residential building sector is critical to the success of Europe’s 2030 and 2050 decarbonization targets. To achieve that success, this paper demonstrates how advanced Pay-for-Performance (P4P) energy services for energy service companies (ESCOs) can address challenges by leveraging low-cost data collection systems in buildings to offer a combination of revenues stemming from informed decision-making, energy management optimization, and active participation in demand response schemes. Our methodology includes (i) preliminary assessments to identify each building’s occupancy patterns, equipment, and smart readiness, (ii) the installation of sensors and data gateways, (iii) the deployment of data-driven energy efficiency and demand response measures, and (iv) the evaluation of non-energy services such as comfort and air quality monitoring. We conducted empirical tests in three distinct building typologies: a multi-apartment residential building in Spain, detached dwellings in Croatia, and a hotel bungalow in Greece, to measure self-consumption savings, occupant-driven energy use behaviour changes, and the potential for explicit demand response. The results indicate overall payback periods of less than 10 years, although effectiveness varies depending on occupant engagement, building suitability, and the local energy market context. These findings reinforce the technical and economic feasibility of enhanced ESCO smart services and provide practical insights for scaling up data-driven solutions to advance Europe’s energy and climate objectives.
Experimental Investigation and Analysis of the Influence of Depth and Moisture Content on the Relationship Between Subgrade California Bearing Ratio Tests and Cone Penetration Tests for Pavement Design
Authors: Moffat Ricardo , Faundez Felipe , Villalobos Felipe A.
Published: January 2025

Evaluation of soil properties in highway design is an important but time-consuming task that does not always provide the necessary information to detect issues associated with changes in soil properties along the road project. California Bearing Ratio (CBR) tests are commonly used to identify soil properties and as an input in pavement design; however, it could be considered a slow test and, therefore, not always performed to the extent that it may be desired on the field. A comparison between CPT and CBR is performed in this work to obtain a correlation between them to be used in design. The effects of moisture content are also investigated in CPT and CBR to determine which conditions should be tested to obtain representative or design conditions for the pavement. A good correlation is found between CPT tip resistance and in situ CBR. It is observed that CBR and cone tip resistance change significantly for moisture contents up to 30 to 40%. It was found that tip resistance should be evaluated at a depth of 20 cm inside the subgrade to estimate adequate CBR values.
Evaluation of Grading Estrogen Receptors in Breast Cancer Using Fully Automated Rapid Immunohistochemistry Based on Alternating-Current Electric Field Technology
Authors: Kudo Chiaki , Terata Kaori , Nanjo Hiroshi , Nomura Kyoko , Hiroshima Yuko , Takahashi Eriko , Yamaguchi Ayuko , Konno Hikari , Onji Masaaki , Wakamatsu Yuki , Kimura Yoshihiko , Takashima Shinogu , Wakita Akiyuki , Sato Yusuke , Minamiya Yoshihiro , Imai Kazuhiro
Published: January 2025

Background: Immunohistochemistry (IHC) is crucial for determining cancer treatments. We previously developed a rapid IHC method and have now developed a fully automated rapid IHC stainer (R-Auto). This study aimed to evaluate the clinical reliability of the R-Auto protocol for staining estrogen receptors (ERs) in breast cancer specimens and evaluate the staining performance. Methods: Between January 2015 and June 2020, 188 surgical specimens collected from breast cancer patients treated at our hospital were evaluated via ER staining using R-Auto, conventional manual IHC, and a commercial autostainer. The specimens were scored using Allred scores, after which the staining results were compared between R-Auto and conventional IHC or the commercial autostainer. Weighted kappa coefficients and AC1 statistics were used to assess the agreement between the methods. Results: The AC1 statistic for comparison between R-Auto and conventional IHC was 0.9490 (0.9139–0.9841), with a 95.7% agreement rate, and that for comparison between R-Auto and the commercial autostainer was 0.9095 (0.8620–0.9570), with a 92.6% agreement. There was, thus, substantial agreement between R-Auto and both conventional IHC and the commercial autostainer. However, R-Auto shortened the time required for IHC from 209 min with conventional IHC to 121 min. Conclusions: R-Auto enables a good staining performance in a shorter time with less effort.
Characteristics and Outcomes of T1a Renal Cell Carcinoma Presenting with Metastasis
Authors: Wang Luke , Guer Melis , Puri Dhruv , Liu Franklin , Dhanji Sohail , Meagher Margaret F. , Shah Aastha , Ghassemzadeh Saeed , Javier-DesLoges Juan , Brugarolas James , Kapur Payal , Bagrodia Aditya , Rose Brent , Murphy James D. , Derweesh Ithaar H. , McKay Rana R.
Published: January 2025

Objectives: The incidence of renal cell carcinoma (RCC) has been rising, largely due to increased incidental detection from widespread imaging. Although synchronous distant metastasis (SM) with a primary renal tumor measuring <4 cm (cT1a) is uncommon, its presence may influence survival outcomes and the utility of cytoreductive nephrectomy. We sought to investigate clinical characteristics, metastatic patterns, treatments, and survival outcomes of patients with T1a RCC. Methods: All patients aged ≥18 years diagnosed with RCC between 2004 and 2019 were extracted from the National Cancer Database. The Cochran–Armitage test was used for trend analysis, while multivariable analyses were conducted to identify variables associated with SM and to assess the impact of cytoreductive surgery on mortality across isolated metastatic sites. Kaplan–Meier analysis was performed to compare survival outcomes. Results: A total of 263,911 individuals diagnosed with T1a RCC were analyzed in the study. Among them, 114,661 patients (43.4%) were classified as having cT1a tumor stage, and of these patients with cT1a RCC, 2275 (2.0%) exhibited SM. The proportion of SM cT1a was 3.39% in 2004 and 2.08% in 2019, with an Average Annual Percent Change (AAPC) of −0.037% (p = 0.830). The most common sites of metastasis were bone (59%), followed by lung (35%), liver (16%), and brain (12%). Resection of the primary tumor and receipt of systemic therapy were significantly associated with reduced mortality among all metastatic sites, especially in individuals with lung-only metastases (HR = 0.02, p = 0.013). Metastasectomy was associated with improved survival in patients with brain-only metastases (HR = 0.26, p = 0.006) but did not demonstrate the same benefit in patients with bone-, lung- or liver-only metastases. The worst 5-year OS rate was observed in cases with metastasis to multiple sites, whereas isolated metastases had similar survival rates (p < 0.0001). Our findings are limited by retrospective study design. Conclusions: This comprehensive analysis of T1a RCC patients reveals that while synchronous metastasis is relatively uncommon (2.0%), it presents significant clinical challenges, with bone as the most common metastatic site, contrasting with the typical lung predominance in larger tumors. Primary tumor resection showed survival benefit in patients with isolated metastases, especially for lung-only metastasis. These findings highlight the heterogeneous nature of tumor biology in small renal masses and underscore the importance of tailored, multimodal treatment strategies for the effective management of SM T1a RCC.
Alterations in Blood and Hippocampal mRNA and miRNA Expression, Along with Fat Deposition in Female B6C3F1 Mice Continuously Exposed to Prenatal Low-Dose-Rate Radiation and Their Comparison with Male Mice
Authors: Wang Hong , Tanaka Ignacia Braga , Lau Salihah , Tanaka Satoshi , Tan Amanda , Tang Feng Ru
Published: January 2025

Our recent study revealed that continuous prenatal low-dose-rate irradiation did not induce cellular changes in the dentate gyrus of the hippocampus in male B6C3F1 mice exposed to gamma rays during prenatal development. However, changes in body weight, body mass index (BMI), locomotor ability, and mRNA and miRNA expressions in the hippocampus and blood were observed. To investigate potential sex differences in the effects of prenatal gamma irradiation, we conducted a parallel study on female B6C3F1 mice. The results showed significant reductions in the weight of the lungs and left kidney in prenatally irradiated female offspring, accompanied by significantly increased fat deposits in the mesentery, retroperitoneal, and left perigonadal areas. Despite these systemic changes, no cellular alterations were observed in the subgranular zone (immature neurons) or the hilus of the dentate gyrus (mature neurons and glial cells, including astrocytes, microglia, and oligodendrocyte progenitor cells). However, significant increases in hippocampal mRNA expression were detected for genes such as H2bc24, Fos, Cd74, Tent5a, Traip, and Sap25. Conversely, downregulation of mRNAs Inpp5j and Gdf3 was observed in whole blood. A Venn diagram highlighted the differential expression of two mRNAs, Ttn and Slc43a3, between the hippocampus and whole blood. Comparisons between prenatally irradiated male and female B6C3F1 mice revealed sex-specific differences. In whole blood, 4 mRNAs (Scd1, Cd59b, Vmn1r58, and Gm42427) and 1 miRNA (mmu-miR-8112) exhibited differential expression. In the hippocampus, 12 mRNAs and 2 novel miRNAs were differentially expressed between the sexes. qRT-PCR analysis validated the upregulation of H2bc24, Fos, Cd74, and Tent5a in the female hippocampus. These gene expression changes may be associated with the increased fat deposition observed following chronic low-dose-rate gamma irradiation exposure. This study underscores the importance of investigating sex-specific biological responses to prenatal gamma irradiation and highlights potential molecular pathways linked to observed physiological changes.
Metamaterials and Their Devices
Authors: Lee YoungPak
Published: January 2025

Over the past two decades, metamaterials (MMs) have led to major advancements in new material science through the artificial arrangement of electric and magnetic resonance structures (meta-atoms) at the subwavelength scale [...]
Evaluating CBCT-Guided Adaptive Radiotherapy for Pancreatic Cancer Using Synthetic CBCT Data
Authors: Olberg Sven , Thompson Leah L. , Roberts Hannah J. , Wo Jennifer Y. , Hong Theodore S. , Wolfgang John , Grassberger Clemens , Pursley Jennifer
Published: January 2025

Ethos adaptive radiotherapy is employed frequently in the pelvis to improve treatment accuracy by adapting to daily anatomical changes. The use of this CBCT-guided platform for abdominal treatments is made challenging by motion-related image artifacts that are detrimental to the Ethos auto-contouring process. We present a preliminary in silico study enabled by synthetic CBCT data of Ethos adaptive radiotherapy for pancreatic cancer. Simulation CT and daily CBCT images were collected from nonadaptive patients treated on Ethos. Contoured CBCTs drove structure-guided deformable registration from the CT to daily CBCTs, providing an approximate daily CT used to produce synthetic CBCT data. Two adaptive workflows were simulated using an Ethos emulator. Over 70 fractions across 10 patients in a solely deformation-based workflow, PTV prescription coverage increased by 23.3±9.4% through plan adaptation. Point doses to the stomach were reduced by 10.2±9.3%. Ultimately, un-adapted plans satisfied target coverage and OAR constraints in 0% and 6% of fractions while adapted plans did so in 80% of fractions. Anatomical variation led to poor performance in rigidly aligned un-adapted plans, illustrating the promise of Ethos adaptive radiotherapy in this region. This promise is balanced by the need for artifact reduction and questions regarding auto-contouring performance in the abdomen.
An Elusive New Genus and Species of Subterranean Amphipod (Hadzioidea: Eriopisidae) from Barrow Island, Western Australia
Authors: Stringer Danielle N. , King Rachael A. , Austin Andrew D. , Guzik Michelle T.
Published: January 2025

Barrow Island, off the coast of north-west Western Australia, supports a rich subterranean amphipod fauna amid major resource development. Previous biological surveys for the purpose of species documentation and environmental impact assessment have helped to uncover a once overlooked genus of amphipod from the family Eriopisidae. Here, we describe this new genus and one new species, Aenigmata megabranchia Stringer and King gen. et sp. nov., using a combination of molecular and morphological data, and present a key to Western Australian subterranean eriopisid genera. The new genus represents a distinct, genetically divergent lineage that can be distinguished from all other eriopisid genera by the following characters: the shape and setation of the mouthparts, the enlarged coxal gills, the straight posterior margin of the first coxa, and an almost entirely cleft telson. This research enhances our knowledge of the Australian Eriopisidae, emphasises the importance of Barrow Island as a key location for subterranean amphipod fauna, and will assist in the future recognition of the species for conservation.
Effect of Type of Coagulant and Addition of Stored Curd on Chemical, Rheological and Microstructural Properties of Low-Moisture Mozzarella Cheese
Authors: Alamprese Cristina , D’Incecco Paolo , Cattaneo Stefano , Masotti Fabio , De Noni Ivano
Published: January 2025

Low-moisture Mozzarella cheese (LMMC) was manufactured in a dairy factory by stretching fresh curd in hot water, with the addition of 0–30% commercial curd (stored curd) purchased as a semi-finished product. Two commercial fermentation-produced camel chymosins, CC-M and CC-S, were employed as coagulants. The chemical, rheological and microstructural properties of LMMC were assessed during storage. The results demonstrated that cheese composition was not significantly influenced by curd addition. The use of CC-S promoted a slight increase of fat matter with respect to the CC-M samples because of the higher proteolytic specificity and clotting activity of the CC-S enzyme. A higher extent of proteolysis was found in LMMC manufactured with CC-M. The textural properties evaluated during storage revealed an increase in meltability, adhesiveness and springiness over time. The amount of added curd had only a minor effect. The melting behaviour was significantly influenced by proteolysis during the 35-day storage period. Overall, the proteolysis during aging was the most impactful factor affecting the properties of LMMC.
Diagnosis and Management of Acute Pancreatitis
Authors: Mittal Nitish , Oza Veeral M. , Muniraj Thiruvengadam , Kothari Truptesh H.
Published: January 2025

Acute pancreatitis is an inflammatory condition of the exocrine pancreas that is a common indication for hospital admission and has had an increasing incidence in the last few decades. The diagnosis of acute pancreatitis requires the satisfaction of two out of three criteria: (1) abdominal pain radiating to the back, (2) serum lipase or amylase levels three or more times the upper limit of the normal level, and (3) findings indicating pancreatitis obtained via a computed tomography (CT) scan or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The different etiologies include gallstones, autoimmune disorders, alcohol abuse, smoking, hypertriglyceridemia, obesity, drugs, and post-endoscope retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). The initial investigation includes serum amylase and lipase analysis, a lipid panel including triglycerides, analysis of immunoglobulins, a full blood count, electrolyte analysis, a hemoglobin A1c test, a complete metabolic panel, and transabdominal ultrasound. The initial therapy includes oxygen supplementation, the provision of intravenous fluids, pain control, and a nutrition regime. Early oral feeding is encouraged if tolerated; if not, liquid supplement provision or enteral tube feeding within 48 h of admission has shown better outcomes. Some complications of acute pancreatitis are necrosis, infection, insulin resistance leading to diabetes mellitus, and pancreatic exocrine insufficiency requiring enzyme supplementation. Patients need to attend regular follow-ups and abstain from alcohol and smoking (if warranted) to prevent the recurrence of acute pancreatitis. The mortality rate of acute pancreatitis has decreased in the past few decades because of better management skills, but the recent rise in acute pancreatitis episodes is concerning. Sustained endeavors through clinical trials are required to establish a broad variety of drugs that can be used for acute pancreatitis episodes.
Transforming Microbiological Diagnostics in Nosocomial Lower Respiratory Tract Infections: Innovations Shaping the Future
Authors: Bustos Ingrid G. , Martinez-Lemus Lina F. , Reyes Luis Felipe , Martin-Loeches Ignacio
Published: January 2025

Introduction: Nosocomial lower respiratory tract infections (nLRTIs), including hospital-acquired pneumonia (HAP) and ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP), remain significant challenges due to high mortality, morbidity, and healthcare costs. Implementing accurate and timely diagnostic strategies is pivotal for guiding optimized antimicrobial therapy and addressing the growing threat of antimicrobial resistance. Areas Covered: This review examines emerging microbiological diagnostic methods for nLRTIs. Although widely utilized, traditional culture-based techniques are hindered by prolonged processing times, limiting their clinical utility in timely decision-making. Advanced molecular tools, such as real-time PCR and multiplex PCR, allow rapid pathogen identification but are constrained by predefined panels. Metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS) provides comprehensive pathogen detection and resistance profiling yet faces cost, complexity, and interpretation challenges. Non-invasive methods, including exhaled breath analysis using electronic nose (e-nose) technology, gene expression profiling, and biomarker detection, hold promise for rapid and bedside diagnostics but require further validation to establish clinical applicability. Expert Opinion: Integrating molecular, metagenomic, biomarker-associated, and traditional diagnostics is essential for overcoming limitations. Continued technological refinements and cost reductions will enable broader clinical implementation. These innovations promise to enhance diagnostic accuracy, facilitate targeted therapy, and improve patient outcomes while contributing to global efforts to mitigate antimicrobial resistance.
Predicting Factor for Occurrence of Postoperative Pancreatic Fistula in Patients with Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumors
Authors: Vlad Nutu , Andriesi-Rusu Florina Delia , Chicos Andrei , Trofin Ana Maria , Cadar Ramona , Zabara Mihai Lucian , Ciobanu Delia , Costache Mircea , Lupascu-Ursulescu Corina , Vasilescu Alin Mihai , Bradea Costel , Blaj Mihaela , Lovin Oana Maria , Ciumanghel Adi Ionut , Crumpei Felicia , Lupascu Cristian Dumitru
Published: January 2025

Background: Neuroendocrine tumors are tumors that can develop in any organ but show a predilection for the pancreas. These can be secreting or non-secreting tumors, or they can be well differentiated or poorly differentiated, or neuroendocrine carcinomas. Surgical treatment is the only treatment with curative intent, but postoperatively, it shows an increased incidence of postoperative pancreatic fistulas. Methods: We carried out a retrospective study which included 26 patients with neuroendocrine tumors and neuroendocrine carcinomas, for whom we performed cephalic duodenopancreatectomies, distal pancreatic resections or enucleation. Results: In our study group, the incidence of pancreatic fistulas was 28%, and a series of risk factors such as the type of surgery (duodenopancreatectomy and enucleation were associated with the highest incidence of POPF), histological type (pancreatic neuroendocrine carcinomas were associated with lowest incidence of POPF), obesity (the incidence of POPF was double in the obese group), functioning tumors (with p = 0.032 and AUC = 746) and dynamic hemoglobin value (AUC = 705 shows a good predicting power, with a cutoff value = 1.8 drop hemoglobin) were indicated. Conclusions: Neuroendocrine tumors show a predisposition for the occurrence of postoperative complications, especially postoperative pancreatic fistulas. There are multiple risk factors that interact in the production of postoperative complications.
Concordance of Biochip-Based and LC-MS/MS Methods in Urine and Blood Samples in Screening for Amphetamine and Methamphetamine
Authors: Akbaba Murat , Isir Aysun Baransel
Published: January 2025

Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and reliability of LC-MS/MS and biochip-based screening in detecting narcotics from blood and urine samples. Materials and Methods: In this single-center study, a total of 250 subjects provided urine and/or blood samples: 234 provided urine and blood samples, and 16 provided only blood samples. Biochip-based narcotics screening was performed on 234 urine and 16 blood samples, and all samples were analyzed using tandem liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). Results: The two most prevalent narcotics were methamphetamine and amphetamine, with both biochip-based array and LC-MS/MS. Cohen’s kappa correlation indicated a substantial agreement between LC-MS/MS and biochip-based screening for both methamphetamine (κ = 0.661, p <0.001) and amphetamine (κ = 0.663, p < 0.001). LC-MS/MS demonstrated near-perfect agreement between urine and blood samples for both methamphetamine (κ = 0.855, p <0.001) and amphetamine (κ = 0.881, p < 0.001). Conclusions: Biochip-based arrays are a valid method offering a faster, less material-intensive alternative to LC-MS/MS for substance detection in forensic examination.
A Psycho-Educational Curriculum Package for Sports Career Transition Practitioners: A Pilot Intervention Case Study
Authors: Hong Hee Jung , Kim Sungkyung , Jeon Chulhyun
Published: January 2025

This study investigates the efficacy of a psycho-educational curriculum package in enhancing the practitioners’ competence to support high-performance athletes’ career transitions. This curriculum was integrated into academic modules at higher education institutions in Singapore (n = 18) and the UK (n = 14). Using online pre- and post-intervention questionnaires, along with open-ended questions, participant feedback on the curriculum was collected. Paired t-tests were used to assess the within-group differences pre- and post-intervention and two-way repeated-measures ANOVAs were conducted to examine the between-group differences pre- and post-intervention. The results revealed a significant difference between pre- and post-intervention scores for four factors and for both countries: Singapore and the UK. The curriculum enhanced participants’ confidence in working with athletes and helped identify areas for development. Three key themes were identified from the thematic content analysis of open-ended responses: (a) informative and insightful content, (b) interactive and engaging delivery (strengths), (c) overlapping content, and reading demands and time constraints (areas for improvement). By incorporating this feedback, supported by the results, the current study contributes to the existing body of knowledge by furnishing insights into an effective psycho-educational curriculum for helping the career transitions of high-performance athletes.
Systematic Literature Review of Simulation-Based Learning for Developing Teacher SEL
Authors: Kasperski Ronen , Levin Orna , Hemi Merav Esther
Published: January 2025

This systematic literature review provides a comprehensive analysis of simulation-based learning methods aimed at enhancing teachers’ social–emotional learning (SEL). The study follows PRISMA guidelines, focusing on peer-reviewed journal articles published in English between 2010 and 2023. Four academic databases—APA Psych, ERIC, Scopus, and Web of Science—were searched, resulting in 68 articles that met stringent inclusion criteria after thorough screening and validation. Findings indicate inconsistencies in terminology and the categorisation of simulation types across studies, highlighting the need for standardised definitions. Findings identify specific simulation types that prioritise SEL development, offering valuable insights into their effective implementation. The theoretical contribution of this systematic literature review lies in proposing a clear typology of simulations, distinguishing between various simulation types and their roles in advancing SEL in teacher training and professional development. In light of the findings, we suggest that, to optimise the use of simulations and enhance their effectiveness in developing SEL competencies within teacher education programs, educators and researchers should adopt a more comprehensive approach to SEL-targeted simulations.