bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploratory study to examine the neuroendocrinological changes in typically developing adults during a music-related participatory practice using computer software
Authors: Sugiyama Yosuke , Tanaka Sanae , Komagome Aiko , Yuhi Teruko , Furuhara Kazumi , Higashida Haruhiro , Tsuji Takahiro , Kikuchi Mitsuru , Tsuji Chiharu
Published: January 2025

There has been a growing recognition of the benefits of participating in art practices for promoting well-being and social connection. Despite this, only a limited number of studies have assessed the neuroendocrinological changes that might contribute to these benefits. In this exploratory study, we focused on a creative activity related to music composition using digital tools. The emergence of computer software to create music (CSCM) has lowered the barriers to musical technical skills and theory, making music composition more accessible. We examined whether incorporating CSCM into a music-making workshop would affect the levels of two hormones, oxytocin and cortisol, among healthy adults. These two hormones were chosen, because oxytocin is involved in prosocial behavior and bonding, while cortisol plays a role in the stress response. Considering the time it takes to learn and adapt to a typical customized CSCM, we simplified its use to allow participants to experience music-making within a short timeframe and set up two distinct workshops. One was individual music creation with the support of a facilitator (Dyad) and the other was music creation in a group (Group). Participants in the Dyad workshops showed increased oxytocin levels, whereas those in the Group workshops did not. Cortisol levels remained unchanged during the Dyad workshops, but decreased in the Group ones. These results suggest that neuroendocrinological changes may occur during music-making activities using computer software. This work highlights the potential value of CSCM-incorporated music-making activities, although further controlled studies are required to confirm these findings.
Employability resources of unemployed adults: longitudinal effects of a group career intervention
Authors: Carvalho Catarina Luzia de , Marôco João , Taveira Maria do Céu , Silva Ana Daniela
Published: January 2025

Introduction

This study evaluates the efficacy of a group-based career intervention designed to promote employability resources among unemployed individuals conducted in face-to-face and online modalities.

Methods

Employing a longitudinal quasi-experimental design, with two intervention groups and a control group, data was collected pre-, post, and two months post-intervention.

Results

Conditional Latent Growth Curve analysis revealed a significant decline in employability resources over time, mitigated by both intervention groups. Human capital and professional development were key at baseline and follow-up, while social capital and networking were crucial post-intervention. Career identity self-career management, and environmental monitoring resources significantly contributed to employability post-intervention.

Discussion

These findings highlight the intervention’s effectiveness in counteracting the negative trend among the general population, underscoring the critical role of ongoing participation in career development activities for unemployed individuals. More empirical research on this type of initiative is encouraged, along with civil society taking responsibility for addressing the psychological challenges of unemployment.
Community case study: an academia-industry-government partnership that monitors and predicts outbreaks in Tri-County Detroit area since 2017
Authors: Xagoraraki Irene , Zhao Liang , Li Yabing , Miyani Brijen , Norton John , Broz James , Kaye Andrew , Mehrotra Anna , Gosine Anil , Withington Scott , McFarlane Stacey , Faust Russell A.
Published: January 2025

The Tri-County Detroit Area (TCDA) is the 12th most populous metropolitan area in the United States with over three million people. Multiple communicable diseases are endemic in the TCDA. In 2017, to explore innovative methods that may provide early warnings of outbreaks affecting populations in the TCDA, an exploratory partnership that was funded by a U.S. National Science Foundation Early-concept Grant for Exploratory Research (EAGER) began. Since 2017, a project team including the College of Engineering at Michigan State University (MSU), the City of Detroit, the Great Lakes Water Authority (GLWA), industry, and local government and health departments, has been testing municipal wastewater from the TCDA to survey and predict surges in communicable diseases in the area. This ongoing effort started years before wastewater-based epidemiology became a widespread method in public health practice, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and is now supported by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The work of the partnership led to significant breakthroughs in the field of wastewater surveillance/wastewater epidemiology. The results of our surveillance efforts are used to assist local health departments in their understanding and response efforts for health issues in the TCDA, facilitating public health messaging for local awareness, targeted clinical testing, and increased vaccination efforts. Our data are available to the local health departments, and our methodological advancements are published and have been used by other communities nationwide and beyond. This paper describes the partnership, lessons learned, significant achievements, and provides a look into the future. The successful implementations and advancements of wastewater surveillance in the TCDA advocate the importance of frequent communications and interactions within the partnership, idea generations from each stakeholder for decision-making, maintenance of scientific rigor, ethical awareness, and more.
Mediating role of perceived social support in the relationship between unemployment and mental distress among healthcare graduates during the COVID-19 era
Authors: John Lea , Solís-Soto María Teresa , Radon Katja
Published: January 2025

Objective

This study investigates the mediating role of perceived social support in the relationship between unemployment and mental distress among young healthcare graduates in Bolivia during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods

A cross-sectional analysis within a cohort study was conducted using data from 109 healthcare graduates from Bolivia collected through an online survey in 2022. The survey measured employment status, mental distress with the 12-item General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-12), and perceived social support using the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS). Mediation analysis was performed in R to examine the mediating effect of perceived social support on the relationship between unemployment and mental distress.

Results

More than two-thirds of participants reported mental distress. Consistent with the main effect model, employment was directly associated with lower levels of mental distress, and perceived social support was positively related to better mental health. However, perceived social support did not statistically significant mediate the impact of unemployment on mental distress, with only 2.1% of the effect being mediated through perceived social support.

Conclusion

Despite the beneficial effect of perceived social support on mental health, it did not significantly mediate the relationship between unemployment and mental distress among Bolivian healthcare graduates during COVID-19. The findings highlight the need for targeted mental health support that go beyond social support for unemployed healthcare graduates during crises.
Requirements for evidence-based management competency in healthcare: a scoping review
Authors: Sanaeifar Elyas , Houshmand Elaheh , Moghri Javad , Vejdani Marjan , Tabatabaee Seyed Saeed
Published: January 2025

Background

Identifying the essential skills and qualifications for evidence-based managers in healthcare is crucial for decision-makers who aim to select competent managers and design effective training programs. This study reviews the requirements, capabilities, and skills necessary for evidence-based managers in the healthcare sector to accurately utilize and implement evidence.

Method

This scoping review was conducted following the PRISMA-SCR (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Extension for Scoping Reviews) guidelines. A thorough literature search was carried out using relevant keywords across the Web of Science, PubMed, and Scopus databases, with no time restrictions. The selection of articles adhered to predefined inclusion criteria. After eliminating duplicates and reviewing titles, abstracts, and full texts, six articles were included in the final analysis.

Results

The study identified several competencies required for effective evidence-based management in healthcare, including professional and technical knowledge, leadership, personal traits and attitudes, communication skills, information management, self-management, critical thinking, research skills, and the ability to apply evidence effectively.

Discussion

Given the ongoing transformations in healthcare, including the emergence of new technologies and the generation of extensive data, evidence-based managers must continually enhance their skills to access and evaluate evidence. They should also work on improving both their interpersonal and intrapersonal skills. The authors advocate for further applied research to deepen our understanding of the competencies required for evidence-based managers within the healthcare and treatment contexts.
Advanced sleep disorder detection using multi-layered ensemble learning and advanced data balancing techniques
Authors: Mostafa Monowar Muhammad , Nobel S. M. Nuruzzaman , Afroj Maharin , Hamid Md Abdul , Uddin Md Zia , Kabir Md Mohsin , Mridha M. F.
Published: January 2025

Sleep disorder detection has greatly improved with the integration of machine learning, offering enhanced accuracy and effectiveness. However, the labor-intensive nature of diagnosis still presents challenges. To address these, we propose a novel coordination model aimed at improving detection accuracy and reliability through a multi-model ensemble approach. The proposed method employs a multi-layered ensemble model, starting with the careful selection of N models to capture essential features. Techniques such as thresholding, predictive scoring, and the conversion of Softmax labels into multidimensional feature vectors improve interpretability. Ensemble methods like voting and stacking are used to ensure collaborative decision-making across models. Both the original dataset and one modified using the Synthetic Minority Oversampling Technique (SMOTE) were evaluated to address data imbalance issues. The ensemble model demonstrated superior performance, achieving 96.88% accuracy on the SMOTE-implemented dataset and 95.75% accuracy on the original dataset. Moreover, an eight-fold cross-validation yielded an impressive 99.5% accuracy, indicating the reliability of the model in handling unbalanced data and ensuring precise detection of sleep disorders. Compared to individual models, the proposed ensemble method significantly outperformed traditional models. The combination of models not only enhanced accuracy but also improved the system's ability to handle unbalanced data, a common limitation in traditional methods. This study marks a significant advancement in sleep disorder detection through the integration of innovative ensemble techniques. The proposed approach, combining multiple models and advanced interpretability methods, promises improved patient outcomes and greater diagnostic accuracy, paving the way for future applications in medical diagnostics.
Urban residents’ perspectives on eco-city: a second-order confirmatory factor analysis of Khon Kaen, Northeast Thailand
Authors: Promphakping Buapun , Dasri Rasita , Phatchaney Kritsada , Promphakping Ninlawadee , Somaboot Pornpen , Laotrakul Songmuang
Published: January 2025

The concept of eco-cities has gained prominence and become a central focus of urban design in recent decades. While theoretical models are well-recognized among policymakers, the extent to which these approaches are understood and embraced by urban residents remains underexplored. Using a quantitative approach, specifically second-order confirmatory factor analysis (Second-Order CFA), this study examined whether the eco-city concept applied by professionals in Khon Kaen, a city located in northeastern Thailand, aligns with residents’ perceptions. A total of 400 residents and stakeholders in Khon Kaen were surveyed using a structured questionnaire. The analysis of urban residents’ perceptions reveals that the economic aspect exerts the most influence on the eco-city concept, followed by environmental and sociocultural aspects. This finding suggests that residents’ perspectives on eco-cities are generally consistent with professional ideas and theoretical models. However, the contribution of latent factors—economic, sociocultural, and environmental—is shaped by complex interactions among the observed factors. The results indicate that transforming the existing economic and environmental structures of the city is challenging, while the sociocultural aspect, from residents’ perspectives, may be more easily addressed. This study recommends prioritizing the retrofitting of social infrastructure and recognizing its contributions to improving both the economy and environment in urban planning.
How does agricultural insurance influence grain production scale? An income-mediated perspective
Authors: Hou Dainan , Wang Xin
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Agricultural insurance has become a vital instrument in risk diversification, loss compensation, and farmer support, with China emerging as the largest agricultural insurance market globally by premium volume. However, the extent to which agricultural insurance influences grain production scale and the underlying mechanisms remain insufficiently explored.

Methods

Differentiating itself from previous studies, this paper conducts a rigorous theoretical and empirical analysis of how agricultural insurance affects grain planting scale. It further examines the mediating role of farmers’ income in this process, providing novel insights into the complex dynamics between agricultural insurance and production behavior. This study applies the von Neumann-Morgenstern expected utility model, coupled with theories on economies of scale, technology diffusion, and rational choice, to examine the theoretical links between agricultural insurance, farmers’ income, and grain production scale.

Results

Using panel data from 27 Chinese provinces between 2011 and 2021, analyzed through fixed-effects and mediation models, the study finds that agricultural insurance positively, albeit moderately, impacts the scale of grain production, with farmers’ income serving as a partial mediating factor.

Discussion

Based on these findings, we recommend expanding agricultural insurance coverage, developing a multi-level insurance framework, and enhancing insurance protection levels to bolster sustainable agricultural development and food security in China.
Physico-Mechanical Properties of Alkali-Activated Based Composites Using Recycled Tire Fibers
Authors: Gudiel Edwin , Payá Jordi , Borrachero María Victoria , Monzó José María
Published: January 2025

Used tires (UTs) are a global problem, especially in developing countries due to inadequate management systems. During retreading, when the worn tread is replaced, waste is generated in the form of tire fibers (TFs) and particles, which can be reused as raw materials to produce economically and environmentally low-cost prefabricated elements. Using TFs as a lightweight aggregate in nonstructural geopolymer-based elements is a sustainable valorization option. This study aims to valorize used tires by incorporating them as TFs into lightweight geopolymer mixes and analyzing their physico-mechanical, thermal, and thermography properties for building and civil engineering applications. The geopolymer is produced from a precursor (spent catalyst residue from catalytic cracking, FCC) and an alkaline activator composed of rice husk ash (RHA), sodium hydroxide, and water. The control sample’s (mortar with siliceous sand, CTRLSIL) compressive strength came close to 50 MPa, while the TF mixes ranged from 32 to 3 MPa, which meet the masonry standards. The thermal conductivity and thermography analyses showed that increasing the TF content reduced the heat transmission and achieved a similar performance to expanded-clay concrete and better performance than for conventional concrete.
Recurrence Quantification Analysis (RQA) of Toroidal End Tool Milling Process
Authors: Zylka Lukasz , Plodzien Marcin , Latalski Jaroslaw , Lajmert Pawel , Rusinek Rafal
Published: January 2025

One type of milling process is the face milling of flat surfaces using a toroidal face cutter. A key feature of this process is that changes in the depth of the cut alter the entering angle, impacting milling dynamics by shifting cutting force proportions. To investigate this phenomenon, an experimental study was conducted on the face milling process using different sets of cutting parameters. Cutting force components were recorded, as these signals provide essential information about the milling process. Statistical indicators were then calculated and analyzed based on the recorded data. Following this, a recursive force analysis was performed, and Recurrence Quantification Analysis (RQA) indicators were computed. Relationships between the RQA indicators and the cutting parameters, specifically the feed per tooth (fz) and axial depth of the cut (ap), were established using response surface methodology. Empirical relationships between these parameters were derived. The results indicate that the RQA indicators like the determinism DET, the entropy ENT, and the length of longest vertical line VMAX are correlated with the cutting parameters for both the feed force (Ff) and the component normal to the feed (FfN). In the axial direction, the RQA indicators DET, ENT, and VMAX and also the percentage of recurrence points in a recurrence plot RR and the longest diagonal line length LMAX are shown to be relevant for analyzing the dynamics of the face milling process.
Biodiversity Protection Practices in Supply Chain Management: A Novel Hybrid Grey Best–Worst Method/Axial Distance-Based Aggregated Measurement Multi-Criteria Decision-Making Model
Authors: Krstić Mladen , Tadić Snežana , Miglietta Pier Paolo , Porrini Donatella
Published: January 2025

Biodiversity, from genes to entire ecosystems, is crucial for a healthy planet. However, human activities, including business practices, are causing rapid biodiversity loss. This study focuses on selecting and integrating biodiversity protection practices into the supply chain, offering a chance to make positive changes for the environment and future generations. A new hybrid grey multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) model is proposed in this paper, which combines the grey Best–Worst Method (BWM) for obtaining criteria weights and the grey Axial Distance-based Aggregated Measurement (ADAM) method for ranking alternatives (practices). The applicability of the proposed model for solving the defined problem was demonstrated by ranking nine practices according to seven criteria. The most effective supply chain management practices in the context of biodiversity conservation were supply chain policies (with a score of 0.044), biodiversity goal setting, monitoring, reporting, and transparency (0.039), and education and awareness raising (0.037). These practices are the best because they combine clear frameworks, measurable goals, and long-term cultural change for effective biodiversity conservation. The lowest ranked practice is compliance with legislation (0.006) since it represents a baseline, reactive approach rather than a proactive or innovative strategy for biodiversity conservation. This study provides a comprehensive framework and hybrid MCDM model that enhances theoretical knowledge and can serve as a basis for developing a practical tool for integrating, assessing, and prioritizing biodiversity-focused practices in supply chains. The main novelties of this paper are the extension of the ADAM method in the grey environment, the development of a new hybrid MCDM model that combines the grey BWM and grey ADAM method, the identification of biodiversity-oriented business strategies in supply chains and the criteria for their evaluation, and a framework for practice evaluation and selection.
A Study on Reactive Ultra-Fine Fly Ash and Sulfoaluminate Cement in Self-Leveling Mortar
Authors: Chuang Pei-Min , Yeih Wei-Chung , Huang Ran , Chang Jiang-Jhy
Published: January 2025

The purpose of this study is to find appropriate mixtures for self-leveling mortar that meet the fluidity requirements without displaying segregation by using a combination of two types of cement (Type I Portland cement and sulfoaluminate cement (SAC)) with reactive ultra-fine fly ash (RUFA). Unlike the fly ash, RUFA has a strong strength activity index and exhibits a significant pattern of amorphous phase in XRD. Appropriate mix proportions of raw materials, including the superplasticizer, require investigation in depth. A fixed water-to-binder ratio of 0.6 was selected, with varying proportions of the two cementitious materials considered (the SAC volume percentages were 0%, 10%, 20%, and 30%) and different RUFA contents (the RUFA volume percentages were 5%, 10%, and 15%). Twelve experiments were conducted to examine the properties of the self-leveling mortars. We found that a higher RUFA volume percentage results in lower porosity, higher compressive strength, and better resistance to drying shrinkage, abrasion, and restrained shrinkage cracking. Increasing the SAC volume percentage increases the porosity of self-leveling mortar and its early compressive strength but decreases late-stage strength. At a 10% volume percentage level, SAC achieves an ideal balance among drying shrinkage, brasion, and shrinkage cracking.
Impact of Ad Libitum Hydration on Muscle and Liver Damage and Electrolyte Balance in Ultra-Trail Events: A Heatmap Analysis of Biomarkers and Event Characteristics—A Pilot Study
Authors: García-Giménez Alejandro , Pradas Francisco , Lecina Miguel , Ochiana Nicolae , Castellar-Otín Carlos
Published: January 2025

Ultra-trail events (UTs) pose significant challenges to maintaining hydration and electrolyte balance, with risks of dehydration (DH), overhydration (OH), exercise-associated hyponatremia (EAH), and exertional rhabdomyolysis (ER). This study examined the effects of ad libitum (ADL) hydration on hydration status and muscle damage during a nine-stage UT (635 km, 40,586 m elevation gain). Four highly trained male athletes participated. Hydration was assessed via body weight loss (BWL), urine specific gravity (Usg), and serum sodium ([Na+]), while muscle damage markers included creatine kinase (CK), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), and calcium (Ca), and liver damage biomarkers included aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT). Our results showed no cases of EAH or hypernatremia ([Na+] > 145 mmol·L−1), with serum [Na+] maintained above 135 mmol·L−1. BWL exceeded the 2% DH threshold in early stages (p = 0.029), and Usg remained elevated (>1.020 g·mL−1). LDH and CK significantly increased at all stages (p < 0.05), persisting for 48 h post-event. Correlations showed BWL aggravated muscle damage (r = 0.47 with CK) and hypocalcemia (r = −0.68 with Ca). Elevation gain/loss amplified fluid loss and muscle injury. While ADL hydration mitigated EAH, it did not fully address DH or muscle damage. Personalized hydration and recovery protocols are crucial to optimizing performance and health in UT events.
Capturing the Developmental Changes in Cognitive Control Engagement in Chinese Preschoolers
Authors: Ji Xufeng , Deng Yihao , Zhang Qiong , Zhou Yanlin
Published: January 2025

Young children typically engage in cognitive control reactively in response to specific situations, rather than proactively preparing for them. The developmental change from reactive to proactive control seems to happen gradually across early development and ultimately results in a qualitatively different behavior pattern. However, existing evidence is mainly based on cross-sectional designs. Thus, this study adopted a longitudinal design to examine the transition from reactive control to proactive control in preschoolers. Sixty preschoolers aged 4 (n = 31) and 5 (n = 29) were recruited and required to complete two cognitive control tasks (i.e., an AX-Continuous Performance Test and a Cued Task-Switching task) twice within a five-month interval. The results showed that the children improved their cognitive control skills across both tasks, demonstrating a predominantly reactive control pattern during the time interval. This improvement reflects an age-related gradual change, which is a preparation for evolving into a qualitatively different behavioral pattern over time. These findings provide longitudinal evidence for the developmental change from reactive to proactive control in early childhood strategies.
Involvement of Maternal and Socioeconomic Risk Factors in the Incidence of Fetal Growth Restriction in a Large Maternity Hospital in Romania
Authors: Bucur-Grosu Mariana-Lăcrămioara , Avasiloaiei Andreea , Popa Iolanda Valentina , Păduraru Luminița , Dimitriu Daniela Cristina , Socolov Demetra
Published: January 2025

Background: Fetal growth restriction (FGR) refers to a condition in which a fetus does not reach its genetically predetermined growth potential due to various pathological factors of maternal or fetal origin, with potential long-life consequences, such as elevated blood pressure, type 2 diabetes mellitus, obesity, dyslipidemia, atherosclerosis. Aim: The purpose of our research is to delve into the intricate relationship between economic and social factors and the occurrence of FGR. Methods: We analyzed risk factors previously associated with FGR and aimed to compare them between two cohorts of infants with FGR: a historical cohort of infants born from 2010 to 2012 and a contemporary cohort of infants born from 2020 to 2022. Results: The global incidence of FGR in our study was 5.13%, with non-significant differences between the two time periods: 5.03% in the historical cohort and 5.25% in the contemporary cohort. More mothers of FGR infants receive formal education and are employed in the contemporary group and thus have a more stable income. There was a major decrease in the number of preterm infants with FGR, from 23.9% in the historical cohort to 5.9% in the contemporary cohort (p < 0.001). Compared to the historical cohort, we found significant increases in the incidence of pregnancy-induced hypertension, Cesarean sections, and prenatal follow-up in the contemporary cohort (8.3% vs. 3.8%, p < 0.001; 59.2% vs. 49.9%, p < 0.001; 67.7% vs. 49.6%, p < 0.001, respectively) and we also found significant correlations between prenatal care on one side and maternal smoking, urban residence, higher maternal education, and prematurity on the other. Conclusions: Certain socioeconomic factors show definite improvements over the ten-year timespan, which results in an increase in prenatal care and a decrease in the rate of prematurity. However, the incidence of FGR remains constant over the considered period, meaning that other factors, apart from socioeconomic factors, play a substantial role. Recognizing these risk factors is crucial for developing effective public health strategies aimed at reducing the incidence of FGR and improving maternal and child outcomes.
The Impact of Sleep on Sensory Processing in Typically Developing Children: Insights from Cross-Sectional and Longitudinal Data
Authors: Bellemare Sophie , López-Arango Gabriela , Deguire Florence , Knoth Inga S. , Lippé Sarah
Published: January 2025

Background/Objectives: Previous research suggests that sleep quality and duration may significantly impact sensory experiences, yet the specific relationships in healthy early childhood remain unclear. This study explores the relationship between sleep parameters and sensory processing outcomes in typically developing children followed longitudinally from 3 to 12 months to 4 years of age. Methods: We assessed sleep problems, sleep duration, sleep onset latency, parasomnias, and sensory processing in a sample of typically developing children (N = 85). Sleep parameters were reported by parents, and sensory processing was evaluated using the Sensory Processing Measure—Parent version (SPM-P). Cross-sectional and longitudinal analyses examined predictors of sensory outcomes based on sleep patterns at 3–12 months, 18 months, 2 years, and 4 years of age. Results: Our findings indicate that greater sleep problems correlate with heightened sensory sensitivity across modalities, including touch and vision, as well as higher-order cognitive functions such as planning and social interactions. Specifically, sleep problems at 18 months were significant predictors of sensory processing at 4 years, while sleep duration at 2 years predicted planning skills. Additionally, longer sleep duration during infancy (3–12 months) positively influenced social participation at 4 years. Conclusions: This study underscores the critical role of sleep in shaping sensory processing outcomes in early childhood. Promoting healthy sleep habits may mitigate sensory processing difficulties, ultimately supporting emotional and social development.
Pneumothorax After VATS for Pleural Empyema in Pediatric Patients
Authors: Mokhaberi Nariman , Vasileiadis Vasileios , Ambs Jan-Malte , Reinshagen Konrad
Published: January 2025

(1) Background: In children, bacterial pneumonia is the most common cause of parapneumonic pleural effusions which can eventually lead to pleural empyema. Treatment is varied and is a combination of antibiotic therapy, chest tube drainage, fibrinolytics and video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS). Postoperative complications of the latter include pneumothoraces and bronchopleural fistula (BPF). The aim of this study is to investigate the incidence and duration of pneumothoraces during the perioperative period and follow-up (FU) to elucidate their progression following video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) to start to create an evidence-based standardized FU protocol. (2) Methods: This retrospective study included all patients who underwent VATS for pleural empyema between January 2013–May 2023 at the University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE) and the Hamburg Children’s Hospital Altona (AKK). (3) Results: We identified 47 patients with pleural empyema who underwent VATS. A proportion of 43% of patients were found to have a pneumothorax with 55% of those being unresolved at discharge. At the end of FU, 27% of those had a “pneumothorax ex vacuo”. No surgical interventions were needed. (4) Conclusions: The majority of pneumothoraces after VATS in pediatric patients can be managed conservatively. In the context of follow-up care, it is recommended that X-ray examinations should be used sparingly, while sonographic follow-up examinations should be conducted more frequently. If the pneumothorax persists, further thoracoscopy for resection of the visceral pleura and treatment of bronchopleural fistula may be the next step in treatment.
Dietary Oleic Acid and SCD16 and ELOVL6 Estimated Activities Can Modify Erythrocyte Membrane n-3 and n-6 HUFA Partition: A Pilot Study
Authors: Bispo Paulo , Rodrigues Pedro O. , Bandarra Narcisa M.
Published: January 2025

In this work, we studied the relationships between the most representative fatty acids (FAs) and their ratios in red blood cell (RBC) membranes and dietary fatty acids alongside several cardiometabolic risk factors. Twenty-six individuals were enrolled with a mean age of 50.4 ± 12.7 years (16 males and 10 females). By bivariate analysis, dietary oleic acid (OA) correlated negatively with C20:4n-6 (AA) (p = 0.031) in RBCs. With multivariate regression analysis, dietary OA (p < 0.001) is an independent predictor and negatively associated with AA levels in RBCs, while the elongation of very-long-chain fatty acids 6 (ELOVL6) and stearoyl-CoA desaturase 16 (SCD16) activities (p < 0.05) was positively associated with AA levels in RBCs. The multivariate regression models also showed that dietary OA was an independent predictor and positively associated with C22:5n-3 (DPA) in RBCs. Furthermore, BMI positively correlated with SCD16, and both SCD16 and SCD18 were positively associated with triacylglycerols levels. In addition, SCD16 positively and significantly correlated with LDL-c and the LDL-c/HDL-c ratio and negatively correlated with the ApoA1/ApoB ratio, and SCD16 and ELOVL6 were significantly associated with HDL molecular subfractions. Therefore, our data underline that OA, SCD16 and ELOVL6 can interfere with n-3 and n-6 partition in biomembranes such as RBCs, suggesting an important molecular (patho)physiological regulatory mechanism role in controlling bioactive molecules’ availability such as those involved in the immune-inflammatory response.
The Novel Association of a Single Nucleotide Variant in the COL3A1 Gene with Diffuse Coronary Aneurysms
Authors: Norgan Radler Charlene , Ku Kevin , Hodge Alison , Wang Tianci , Moore Peyton , Sathyamoorthy Mohanakrishnan
Published: January 2025

The COL3A1 gene, encoding the pro-alpha chain of type III collagen, has been implicated in a range of collagen-mediated diseases such as Ehlers–Danlos syndrome and aortic aneurysms. In this report, we present evidence for the first time associating a single nucleotide variant p.P517R in exon 22 of COL3A1 with the development of diffuse coronary aneurysms in a human subject without prior atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, connective tissue disorder, or phenotypic characteristics diagnostic for vascular Ehlers–Danlos syndrome. Computational modeling of this specific variant in AlphaFold and in silico analyses predict deleterious alterations in the structure and function of the COL3A1 gene product, alpha 1 chain of type III collagen. This novel phenotype-to-genotype correlation should prompt further investigation into the mechanistic basis of this association.
Feasibility of an At-Home Experimental Circadian Misalignment Induction for Adolescents
Authors: Beebe Dean W. , Fidler Andrea L. , McLaughlin Laura , Grove Sabrina , Crowley Stephanie J.
Published: January 2025

Despite extensive research on the effects of sleep restriction on adolescent health, the field lacks experimental methods to study the health effects of mistimed sleep, which is also common among adolescents. This paper describes a novel 3-week experimental protocol that was designed to compare sleep restriction, like what many adolescents experience on school nights, against sleep that meets the recommended duration but is timed to be relatively aligned or misaligned with their circadian phase. Healthy 14–18-year-olds, classified as early (“Lark”) and late (“Owl”) chronotypes, entered a six-night chronotype-aligned stabilization condition, followed by five nights of sleep restriction, a return to the stabilization schedule, and five nights of healthy sleep duration (HS). During HS, participants were randomly assigned to early-to-bed versus late-to-rise arms, intended to align with or misalign with their circadian phase. Actigraphy monitored sleep, and weekly dim-light melatonin onset (DLMO) assessed circadian phase. Analyses confirmed that the protocol met five key validation metrics related to differential attrition, sleep timing, circadian phase, and experimental induction of HS that is timed to be relatively aligned vs. misaligned with circadian phase. This protocol appears useful for future research into how misaligned sleep patterns, which occur regularly for many adolescents, may impact health.
Effects of Different Treatment Methods Used in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis on the Trabecular and Cortical Structure of the Mandible
Authors: Yemenoglu Hatice , Beder Melek , Cüre Osman , Günaçar Dilara Nil
Published: January 2025

Background/Objectives: To appraise the mandibular bone structure of patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) who were treated with different drugs using fractal dimension (FD) analysis and panoramic radiomorphometric indices and investigate the effects of RA on the jaw bone. Methods: A total of 90 panoramic radiographs were analyzed in this study: 30 were from patients with RA using conventional synthetic disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (csDMARDs) and glucocorticoids, 30 were from patients with RA using tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) inhibitors, and 30 were from systemically healthy individuals. In panoramic radiographs, panoramic mandibular index (PMI), mandibular cortical thickness measurements, mandibular cortical index (MCI), and FD analysis taken from four different regions were evaluated. Results: The lowest FD analysis value was observed in patients using csDMARDs and glucocorticoids and in the condyle region (p = 0.001). Although PMI and posterior index (PI) were found to be significantly lower in patients using csDMARDs and glucocorticoids compared with the others (p = 0.001), no significant difference was observed between the groups in terms of anterior index (AI), symphysis index (SI), and molar index (MI) values (p > 0.05). When MCI was analyzed, there was no significant difference between the groups (p > 0.05). Conclusions: It was observed that the trabecular structure in the condyle and posterior region of the mandible was negatively influenced by RA and csDMARD and glucocorticoid drug use. Radiomorphometric indices and FD analysis on panoramic radiographs can be used to evaluate osteoporotic alterations in individuals with RA. These assessments are valuable in predicting the prognosis of conditions such as bone healing after tooth extraction and other surgical procedures and osseointegration after implant surgery.
Understanding Factors Influencing Generative AI Use Intention: A Bayesian Network-Based Probabilistic Structural Equation Model Approach
Authors: Kim Cheong
Published: January 2025

This study investigates the factors influencing users’ intention to use generative AI by employing a Bayesian network-based probabilistic structural equation model approach. Recognizing the limitations of traditional models like the technology acceptance model and the unified theory of acceptance and use of technology, this research incorporates novel constructs such as perceived anthropomorphism and animacy to capture the unique human-like qualities of generative AI. Data were collected from 803 participants with prior experience of using generative AI applications. The analysis reveals that social influence (standardized total effect = 0.550) is the most significant predictor of use intention, followed by effort expectancy (0.480) and perceived usefulness (0.454). Perceived anthropomorphism (0.149) and animacy (0.145) also influence use intention, but with a lower relative impact. By utilizing a probabilistic structural equation model, this study overcomes the linear limitations of traditional acceptance models, allowing for the exploration of nonlinear relationships and conditional dependencies. These findings provide actionable insights for improving generative AI design, user engagement, and adoption strategies.
Iterative Learning Control Design for a Class of Mobile Robots
Authors: Zaborniak Dominik , Balik Piotr , Woźniak Kacper , Sulikowski Bartłomiej , Witczak Marcin
Published: January 2025

The paper presents the design of iterative learning control for a class of mobile robots. This control strategy allows driving the considered system, which executes the same control task in trials, to the predefined reference within the consecutive iterations by improving the control signal gradually. The control problem being stated concerns a mobile robot, and hence, its kinematic model is presented. The considered model is nonlinear as it is related to the robot orientation angle. Thus, the linearization strategy is introduced by dividing the range of possible orientation angles to four quarters and then deriving a linear parameter-varying system. As a distinct research topic, the feasible/optimal number selection of polytope vertices of each LPV submodel are considered. Next, for the resulting bank of models, the switched iterative control scheme is transformed into closed-loop differential linear repetitive processes. Subsequently, based on the fact that ensuring the so-called stability along the trial is equivalent to the convergence of the original model output to the predefined reference, an appropriate stabilization condition is applied in order to compute the feedback controller gains. The overall effectiveness and performance of the proposed methodology are evaluated through comprehensive simulation examples.
Effect of Solid-Fermented Brewer’s Spent Grain on Growth, Metabolism, and Oxidative Status of European Seabass (Dicentrarchus labrax)
Authors: Estevão-Rodrigues Tássia , Fernandes Helena , Moutinho Sara , Ferreira Marta , Castro Carolina , Belo Isabel , Salgado José Manuel , Oliva-Teles Aires , Peres Helena
Published: January 2025

Replacing traditional agricultural ingredients with biotechnologically improved agro-industry by-products in fish diets promotes sustainable aquaculture, reduces production costs and carbon footprint, and promotes a circular economy. Brewer’s spent grain (BSG) is one such by-product. Solid-state fermentation (SSF) of BSG with Aspergillus ibericus enhances its nutritional value and digestibility for European seabass. The present study further evaluates the potential of dietary inclusion of BSG-SSF on growth performance, feed utilization, plasma metabolite profile, intermediary metabolism, and oxidative status of European seabass juveniles compared to the unfermented product. A practical diet (45% protein; 18% lipids) was tested against diets incorporating 10% or 20% of BSG or BSG-SSF, replacing plant-protein feedstuffs. Triplicate groups of European seabass juveniles (49 g initial weight) were fed for 10 weeks. Unfermented BSG (10% and 20%) reduced growth and feed efficiency. In comparison, the 20% BSG-SSF diet promoted growth and feed efficiency similar to the control group, while the 10% BSG-SSF diet surpassed the control diet. Whole-body protein content was unaffected, but lipid and energy content decreased with increasing BSG levels, regardless of fermentation. Plasma glucose and phospholipid levels and hepatic activities of glucokinase and malic enzymes decreased with increasing BSG, irrespective of fermentation. BSG-SSF incorporation increased plasma triglyceride levels and decreased hepatic transaminase activities but did not affect hepatic key enzyme activity of β-oxidation or lipogenesis. It also reduced antioxidant enzyme activity and lipid peroxidation. In conclusion, BSG negatively impacted growth performance, while BSG-SSF supported inclusion levels up to 20% without performance loss. Further, the 10% BSG -SSF diet outperformed the control diet.
Plasma Lipopolysaccharide-Binding Protein (LBP) Is Induced in Critically Ill Females with Gram-Negative Infections—Preliminary Study
Authors: Utrata Alexander , Schmidtner Niklas , Mester Patricia , Schmid Stephan , Müller Martina , Pavel Vlad , Buechler Christa
Published: January 2025

Background/Objectives: Men are more susceptible to sepsis than women, but the underlying pathways have not been fully clarified. Lipopolysaccharide-binding protein (LBP) is an acute-phase protein that is highly elevated in sepsis. Experimental evidence shows that LBP increases to a much greater extent in male than in female mice following exposure to lipopolysaccharide. However, gender-specific studies of circulating LBP levels in sepsis patients are scarce. Methods: In the plasma of 189 patients with systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS), sepsis, and septic shock, LBP levels were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Results: Patients with liver cirrhosis had reduced circulating LBP levels, regardless of gender. Further analysis within the non-cirrhotic patients showed no significant differences in LBP levels between sexes in patients with SIRS, sepsis, and septic shock. Ventilation, dialysis, and vasopressor therapy had no effect on LBP levels in either sex. A positive correlation between LBP and C-reactive protein was observed in the total cohort, males, and females. Infection with Gram-negative or Gram-positive bacteria had no effect on plasma LBP levels in males. However, female patients with Gram-negative infection had increased plasma LBP levels compared to females with negative and Gram-positive blood cultures, and 70 µg/mL LBP discriminates Gram-negative infections in females with a sensitivity of 88% and a specificity of 74%. Infection with SARS-CoV-2 did not change plasma LBP levels in either men or women. Female patients who did not survive had lower plasma LBP levels compared to female survivors and male non-survivors. Conclusions: This investigation highlights the influence of sex on plasma LBP levels in SIRS/sepsis patients, suggesting that LBP could be a sex-specific biomarker in critically ill patients.
The Presence of the Endocannabinoid System in an In Vitro Model of Gorham-Stout Disease and Its Possible Role in the Pathogenesis
Authors: Aurilia Cinzia , Palmini Gaia , Donati Simone , Falsetti Irene , Galli Gianna , Margheriti Lorenzo , Iantomasi Teresa , Moro Arcangelo , Brandi Maria Luisa
Published: January 2025

Gorham-Stout syndrome (GSD), also known as disappearing bone disease, is an extremely rare bone disorder, characterized by a huge bone loss, which is followed by a lack of new matrix deposition and an excessive proliferation of both blood vessels and lymphatics. Unfortunately, the biological causes of GSD are still unknown. Recent studies that have tried to understand the etiopathogenesis of GSD have been principally focused on the vascular and osteoclastogenic aspects, not considering the possibility of a lack of osteoblast function. Nowadays, a diagnosis is still difficult, and is often made by exclusion of the presence of other pathologies, as well as on radiological evidence, and finally confirmed by histological examination. Treatment also remains a critical issue for clinicians today, who mostly try to control the progression of the disease. Over the last two decades, clear evidence has emerged that the endocannabinoid system plays an important role in bone metabolism, leading scientists to hypothesize that it could be involved in physiological and pathological bone processes. In this work, we analyzed the presence of the ES in a primary cell line of human mesenchymal stem cells derived from a GSD patient for the first time, to understand if and how this complex network may play a role in the pathogenesis of the syndrome. Our preliminary results demonstrated that the ES is also present in the pathological tissue. Moreover, the qRT-PCR analysis showed an altered expression of the different ES components (i.e., CNR1, CNR2, TRPV1, and GPR55). We observed an upregulation of CNR1 and TRPV1 expression, while the opposite trend was noticed for CNR2 and GPR55 expression. Thus, these results could lead us to speculate that possible deregulation of the ES may play an important role in the lack of bone regeneration in GSD patients. However, further studies will be necessary to confirm the role of the ES in the progression of GSD and understand whether the natural components of Cannabis Sativa could play a therapeutic role in the treatment of the disease.