bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A heat-flow method for generating fiber placement trajectories over meshes
Authors: Wang Kai , Wang Xiheng , Wang Xiaoping
Published: January 2025

Automatic Fiber Placement (AFP) is a principal processing method for carbon fiber reinforced composite materials and is widely applied in the contemporary manufacturing industry. An efficient and rational trajectory generation strategy is the crucial factor determining the quality and efficiency of fiber placement. This article investigates the effectiveness of employing numerical approximation in resolving the problem of determining fiber placement trajectories on triangular mesh molds. The proposed method, based on heat-flow (HF), can directly compute the distance map by solving a straightforward linear system and trace full coverage trajectories. It encompasses two pivotal processes, namely, enforcing initial boundary conditions and updating the vector field, and is capable of generating the expected full coverage equidistant trajectories without any gaps or overlaps. It can handle complex molds that are arduous to be expressed through parametric or implicit equations. The experimental simulation further substantiates the feasibility of the proposed method in generating full coverage trajectories and its potential application in AFP.
Physical violence and its associations: Insights from nationally representative data in India
Authors: Mary P Monisha , Jacob Ankeeta Menona , Shetty Avinash K
Published: January 2025

Background:

Empowerment is vital for individuals’ control over their lives but is often constrained for women in India due to deep-rooted patriarchal norms. This affects health, and resource distribution, and increases domestic violence. Domestic violence including physical, sexual, emotional, economic, and psychological abuse is a significant human rights and public health issue. Understanding the link between women’s empowerment and attitudes toward physical violence is essential for addressing this problem.

Objectives:

To explore the relationship between various aspects of women’s empowerment and their attitudes toward the justification of physical violence in specific circumstances. The study aimed to provide insights into how empowerment can serve as a protective factor against domestic violence.

Design:

A cross-sectional study was conducted using the data from the National Family Health Survey-5 (NFHS-5), collected from 2019 to 2021. The study was carried out between July 2023 and March 2024.

Methods:

Data from NFHS-5, focusing on women aged 15–49 who completed the domestic violence module, were analyzed. Women’s empowerment was measured through employment, asset ownership, and decision-making autonomy. The study assessed 8 indicators of employment, 12 of asset ownership, 9 of decision-making, 5 justifying physical violence, and 11 indicators of physical abuse. Frequencies, percentages, Fischer’s exact test, and logistic regression were used, with significance set at p < 0.05.

Results:

Of 4562 women, 23 (0.7%) were employed, 3397 (74.5%) owned mobile phones, and 744 (21.9%) used them for transactions. Joint financial decisions were made by 2692 (75.2%) couples. Restrictions on meeting friends were reported by 376 (10.1%), and 431 (11.6%) had trust issues with partners. Physical violence was justified by 934 (20.5%) for neglecting children, and 3365 (90.4%) experienced partner violence. Land ownership was reported by 383 (8.4%) women. Empowered women were less likely to justify or experience violence, with mobile phone use and decision-making autonomy linked to reduced violence.

Conclusion:

Women’s empowerment through employment, asset ownership, and decision-making is associated with reduced justification and prevalence of physical violence. Despite progress, entrenched societal norms persist. Interventions should focus on economic and social empowerment, addressing cultural attitudes and promoting gender equality.
Safety and efficacy of faecal microbiota transplantation in patients with acute uncomplicated diverticulitis: study protocol for a randomised placebo-controlled trial
Authors: Thorndal Camilla , Kragsnaes Maja Skov , Nilsson Anna Christine , Holm Dorte Kinggaard , dePont Christensen Rene , Ellingsen Torkell , Kjeldsen Jens , Bjørsum-Meyer Thomas
Published: January 2025

Background:

Little is known about the involvement of gut microbiota in the disease course of diverticulitis and the potential benefits of manipulating the gut milieu. We propose to conduct a randomised placebo-controlled feasibility trial of faecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) given as capsules to patients with acute uncomplicated diverticulitis.

Objectives:

The objective is primarily to investigate the feasibility of clinical safety, explore efficacy associated with FMT in this patient population, and examine changes in patient-reported quality of life and the composition and function of the gut microbiota.

Design:

Study protocol for a randomised placebo-controlled trial.

Methods and analysis:

Participants with acute, uncomplicated diverticulitis, as confirmed by computed tomography (CT) scan, will be recruited from Odense University Hospital (Denmark) and randomly assigned to either the intervention group or the control group. The intervention group will consist of 20 patients who receive encapsulated FMT. The control group will also consist of 20 patients, receiving placebo capsules. Primary safety endpoint: Patient safety is monitored by (a) the number of re-admissions and (b) the number of adverse events within 3 months of FMT/placebo; Primary efficacy endpoint: Reduction in the proportion of patients treated with antibiotics within 3 months following FMT/placebo; Secondary outcome: Change from baseline to 3 months in the GI-QLI questionnaire. Results will be analysed using an intention-to-treat approach. Adverse events or unintended consequences will be reported.

Ethics and discussion:

This is the first study to investigate the safety and efficacy of FMT in patients with acute uncomplicated diverticulitis. The project has the potential to broaden the knowledge and literature on the role of the intestinal microbiota in diverticulitis, and we believe it will elevate our understanding of cause and effect.

Trial registration:

Informed consent is obtained from all participants. The study is approved by the regional ethics committee (ref. S-20230023) and the Danish Data Protection Agency (ref. 24/2435). The trial was registered on clinicaltrials.gov (NCT06254625) on 10th February 2024.
Increased gastrointestinal bleeding-related mortality during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Gao Xu , Yeo Yee Hui , Lv Fan , He Xinyuan , Park Justin , Samaan Jamil , Zhao Yunyu , Han Ng Wee , Wang Jinhai , Ji Fanpu , Melmed Gil Y.
Published: January 2025

Background:

Despite its significant health burden, there is a lack of national-level temporal patterns in gastrointestinal bleeding (GIB) mortality.

Objectives:

To comprehensively decipher the annual and monthly trend of GIB-related mortality in the United States.

Design:

Cross-sectional study.

Methods:

We analyzed the National Vital Statistic System database, which documents more than 99% of the annual deaths in the United States for GIB-related deaths from January 2010 to May 2023. Annual and monthly age-standardized mortality rates were estimated and categorized by age, sex, and bleeding site. Joinpoint regression was performed for trend analysis. Prediction modeling was conducted to determine the GIB-associated excess mortality.

Results:

A total of 529,094 and 210,641 GIB-associated deaths occurred before and after 2020, respectively. Following a stably decreasing trend between 2010 and 2019, there was an excess mortality rate during the pandemic which peaked in 2021. The monthly mortality trend showed spikes corresponding to the outbreak of variants. Importantly, excess GIB-related mortality resolved in 2023, with the convergence of predicted and observed mortality rates. Subgroup analysis showed that young males (aged 19–44 years) were affected the most during the pandemic, with excess mortality rates of 35.80%, 52.77%, and 31.46% in 2020, 2021, and 2022, respectively. While the increasing trend of upper GIB was accentuated during the pandemic, lower GIB showed a reversal of the pre-pandemic decreasing trend.

Conclusion:

Our findings demonstrate the trend of GIB-related mortality, underscoring an increased excess death during the pandemic followed by a resolution in 2023. We identify subpopulations vulnerable to the pandemic.
Surgical resection versus thermal ablation: comparison of sequential options after successful TACE downstaging therapy for unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: An Chao , Wu Songsong , Zuo Mengxuan , Li Wang , Li Kai , Wu Peihong
Published: January 2025

Background:

Transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) is an effective and safe downstaging therapy for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, the selection of sequential therapeutic modalities is still controversial.

Objectives:

This study compared the effectiveness and safety of surgical resection (SR) and thermal ablation (TA) after patients with HCC underwent TACE downstaging therapy.

Design:

A retrospective, multi-institutional study.

Methods:

From June 2008 to October 2022, a total of 4782 consecutive patients with HCC beyond the initial Milan criteria underwent TACE at 12 hospitals. Among them, 609 patients who received successful downstaging therapy were retrospectively reviewed. Among them, 209 patients underwent an SR, and 390 patients received TA after TACE. The propensity score matching (PSM) method was applied to reduce selection bias between groups. Cumulative overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) were compared using the Kaplan–Meier method with the log-rank test.

Results:

After PSM 1:1 ( n = 185 in both groups), the cumulative 1-, 3-, 5-, and 10-year OS rates were 98.8%, 89.3%, 82.9%, and 64.4%, respectively, in the SR group and 99.5%, 88.4%, 75.3%, and 53.9%, respectively, in the TA group; these two groups were not significantly different (HR: 1.22; 95% CI: 0.78–1.89; p = 0.381). The cumulative 1-, 3-, 5-, and 10-year PFS rates were 88.5%, 69.2%, 58.8%, and 32.2%, respectively, in the SR group and 90.6%, 71.4%, 53.1%, and 32.0%, respectively, in the TA group, revealing no significant difference between the two groups (HR: 0.97; 95% CI: 0.71–1.32; p = 0.855).

Conclusion:

For HCC patients beyond the Milan criteria who received TACE downstaging therapy, TA might be acceptable as an alternative to SR in the first-line sequential treatment scheme.
Diagnosis and management of septic arthritis: A current concepts review
Authors: Sanpera Ignacio , Salom Marta , Alves Cristina , Eastwood Deborah
Published: January 2025

Correct diagnosis and treatment of septic arthritis (SA) are essential to achieve satisfactory results and avoid lifelong consequences. Diagnosing septic arthritis is not always easy, which is why new biomarkers have been sought. Another difficulty in diagnosis is the increase in septic arthritis due to Kingella Kingae, which does not show the same signs and symptoms as classic Staphylococcus aureus infections. Increasingly, magnetic resonance imaging plays a more fundamental role in diagnosing septic arthritis, and many studies are focused on this line, especially for the study of associated pathologies. Numerous studies have been published on less invasive treatments for septic arthritis, although the evidence suggests that the results should be taken cautiously. Although most of the published studies focus on the hip and knee, there have also been recent publications on SA in the upper limb, foot, and ankle. Finally, the literature also pays attention to SA in young children due to its different etiology and the greater difficulties in its diagnosis.
Promoting Environmental Citizenship Using Participatory School-Based Community Profiling on Water (Mis)uses
Authors: Prada da Silva Diogo Filipe , Silva Joel Bruno da , Barbosa Marta Oliveira , Ribeiro Norberto , Menezes Isabel
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This study analyzes the contributions of the Healthy Waters educational program to the awareness and understanding of environmental issues related to water to generate changes in attitudes in the community.

Design/Approach/Methods

A community school intervention was conducted in a public school in Paredes, Porto, Portugal. Using a participatory research approach, 35 participants were recruited from the seventh and eighth grades. A retrospective pretest/posttest questionnaire was used to assess the influence of the intervention. A thematic analysis of the tutors’ logbooks was performed to ascertain the relevant domains of change for students during the intervention.

Findings

Results showed statistically significant changes in proenvironmental attitudes and behaviors at the end of the intervention. The effect sizes of the statistical analyses showed that the intervention generally had a positive influence on the environmental awareness of the participants. The tutors’ evaluations of the intervention indicated a diversified gain in students’ environmental learning.

Originality/Value

The results of this study demonstrate that this type of intervention increases students’ knowledge of and involvement in environmental issues while reinforcing their environmental citizenship.
Corporate Entrepreneurship Driven by Big Data Analytics Capability: A Perspective Based on the Generation and Utilization of Slack Resources
Authors: Zheng Yadan , Dai Lihua
Published: January 2025

With the escalating significance of big data analytics, firms are contemplating strategies to incorporate the transformative effects of these digital technologies into their competitive frameworks. However, the persistent ‘IT productive paradox’ phenomenon highlights that the issue of how firms implement and manage big data analytics remains unresolved. Drawing on resource orchestration theory and organizational inertia theory, this paper aims to explore the relationship between big data analytics capability and corporate entrepreneurship. The research data are collected from 206 Chinese firms engaged in big data analytics activities. The hierarchical regression and bootstrap analysis results indicate a positive relationship between big data analytics capability and corporate entrepreneurship, with organizational slack plays a partial mediating role in this relationship. Additionally, organizational flexibility can strengthen the positive relationship between big data analytics capability and organizational slack, while performance aspiration matching can weaken the positive relationship between organizational slack and corporate entrepreneurship. The findings offer new insights into how and when big data analytics capability can create value. Overall, this study provides a crucial theoretical foundation for firms to leverage big data analytics technology in executing digital transformation and achieving business upgrading.
Achieving Logistics Firm Performance Through High-Performance Work System (HPWS) and e-HRM Capabilities: The Moderating Role of Digital Talent Acquisition
Authors: Awadh Aljuaid Abdulrahman
Published: January 2025

The rising global competition, post-pandemic crisis, and dynamic changes in the business environment have created anxiety and fear among employees resulting in less productivity at the workplace. Consequently, logistics firms are striving to design strategic business models that encourage employees to keep working during turbulent environments and achieve firm goals. To address this issue, the current study integrates a high-performance work system and e-HRM and examines employee work engagement behavior. Moreover, the moderating effect of digital talent acquisition is tested between employee work engagement and logistic firm performance. Hypotheses were tested through empirical data. Findings revealed that high-performance work systems and e-HRM practices explained substantial variance in employee work engagement. Similarly, work engagement and digital talent acquisition have explained a large variance in logistic firm performance. Moreover, motivation capability is the most influential factor due to large effect size [Formula: see text] towards employee work engagement. This study is original as it integrates e-HRM and high-performance work systems toward employee work engagement. In addition to that testing the moderating impact of digital talent acquisition between work engagement and firm performance makes this research unique and valuable.
The Growing Phenomenon of Digital Nomads: Merging Work and Travel in the Hospitality and Tourism Industry
Authors: Heo Jaewan , Zhang Tingting , Hua Nan
Published: January 2025

Digital nomads are travelers whose lifestyle is pursuing extensive travel or indefinite travel while working remotely, and not mostly staying at home. Their tourism behavior patterns do not match the traditional definition of tourists by United Nations World Tourism Organization, they are still important customers who stay longer and spend a larger tourism expenditure, thereby bringing positive influence on the financial performance of hospitality businesses and local economy. As the number of digital nomads is expected to increase, the tourism and hospitality industry should be prepared to capture them by providing adequate services. Moreover, digital nomads appear as employees in the tourism and hospitality industry, while not all of them can become digital nomads. Digital nomadism leads to inequality in mobility because of the discrepancy between digital nomads and those who cannot afford the lifestyle. In addition, while the hospitality industry is based on service encounters with guests, more remote work appears after COVID-19. However, adopting a remote work environment in the industry is not easy, as the infrastructure should be prepared through investments to support remote work in connection to the physical environment. The case study identified the main issues that need to be considered for tourism and hospitality management and marketing. Concerning the lifestyle of digital nomads, mobility posits as the core driver. In addition, establishing a supportive environment with technological infrastructure and community could help digital nomads to promote work productivity and socialization. Finally, incorporating a remote work environment in the hospitality firms to adopt digital nomadism from HR perspective.
Market Discipline in Banking: A Systematic Review and Future Research Agenda
Authors: Sardana Varda , Shukla Abha
Published: January 2025

This article aims to synthesize the studies on market discipline in banking through a systematic literature review (SLR), propose a model underlining the relationship between various constructs, and identify the gaps for future research. Considering the presence of contradictory evidence on the existence, effectiveness and outcomes of market discipline, this study attempts to plug the gap in the literature through a comprehensive SLR of 412 documents, from 1980 to June 2024, using the Theory, Context, Characteristics, Methodology framework. The findings suggest that only one-fifth of the studies have a theoretical underpinning, with a handful of theories occupying centre stage. Multi-country studies dominate the literature, with substantial research being conducted in the context of conventional banks. The article also categorizes the literature into three themes and highlights the use of quantitative techniques as the prevalent methodology employed in studies. The article proposes a model to illustrate the relation between the factors, measures and impact of market discipline in banking, and lays down research gaps for further exploration. The model illustrated by the study shall serve as a ready reckoner for researchers and practitioners alike, and the research gaps highlighted shall be instrumental in advancing the current state of literature.
Comparative Analysis of Injury and Illness Rates Among Team USA Athletes at the Tokyo 2020 Summer Olympic and Paralympic Games
Authors: Post Eric G. , Cali Malia G. , Clark Stephanie C. , Noble-Taylor Kayle E. , Robinson David M. , Hasley Ike B. , Larson Emily G. , McPherson April L. , Anderson Travis , Finnoff Jonathan T. , Adams William M.
Published: January 2025

Background:

Previous research has reported higher rates of both injury and illness among Paralympic athletes compared with Olympic athletes during the Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games, but no studies have directly compared injury and illness incidence between Olympic and Paralympic athletes competing in a Summer Games.

Purpose:

To compare injury and illness rates between Olympic and Paralympic Team USA athletes competing in the Tokyo 2020 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Study Design:

Descriptive epidemiology study.

Methods:

All injuries and illnesses that occurred among the Team USA athletes competing in the Tokyo 2020 Summer Olympic or Paralympic Games were documented. A total of 701 Team USA athletes (53.6% female) competed in the Tokyo 2020 Summer Olympic Games, across 34 different sports. For the Tokyo 2020 Summer Paralympic Games, a total of 245 athletes (51.6% female) competed across 20 sports. Incidence rates (IRs) per 1000 athlete-days were calculated according to sex, sport, anatomic location, and illness type. IR ratios (IRRs) were calculated to compare IRs between male and female athletes and between Olympic and Paralympic athletes.

Results:

Overall, there were no differences in injury incidence (IRR, 1.18; 95% CI, 0.84-1.68) or illness incidence (IRR, 0.68; 95% CI, 0.41-1.15) between Olympic and Paralympic athletes. Male Paralympic athletes were less likely to sustain an illness compared with female Paralympic athletes (IRR, 0.35; 95% CI, 0.11-0.90).

Conclusion:

There were no differences in injury or illness rates between Olympic and Paralympic Team USA athletes competing at the Tokyo 2020 Summer Games, contrary to previous comparisons among winter sport athletes. These results challenge the prevailing notion that Summer Paralympic athletes are at greater injury and illness risk, suggesting that factors beyond Olympic or Paralympic Games participation influence health concerns.
Rescue stenting after failed mechanical thrombectomy: The RES-CAT study
Authors: Collet-Vidiella Roger , Camps-Renom Pol , Núñez-Guillén Ana , Quesada Helena , Rizzo Federica , Rodriguez-Villatoro Noelia , Amaro Sergio , Llull Laura , Santana Daniel , Estrada Edgardo , Flores Alan , Terceño Mikel , Bashir Saima , Hernández-Pérez María , Remollo Sebastià , Barrachina-Esteve Oriol , Cánovas David , Vivas Elio , Rodríguez-Campello Ana , Mauri Gerard , Purroy Francisco , Ramos-Pachón Anna , Guasch-Jiménez Marina , Guisado-Alonso Daniel , Prats-Sánchez Luis , Martínez-Domeño Alejandro , Lambea-Gil Álvaro , Ezcurra-Díaz Garbiñe , Branera-Pujol Jordi , Martínez-González José Pablo , Dinia Lavinia , Salvat-Plana Mercè , Pérez de la Ossa Natalia , Molina Carlos A. , Cardona Pere , Martí-Fàbregas Joan
Published: January 2025

Introduction

The efficacy of intracranial rescue stenting (RS) following failed mechanical thrombectomy (MT) in large-vessel occlusion (LVO) stroke remains uncertain. We aimed to evaluate clinical outcomes of RS in patients with anterior circulation LVO stroke following unsuccessful MT.

Patients and methods

We conducted a retrospective analysis using the Stroke Code Registry of Catalonia (January 2016–March 2022), a prospective, population-based registry including patients treated at 10 comprehensive stroke centers. We compared outcomes between patients who received RS and those who did not after failed MT. The primary outcome was the shift in 90-day functional status, assessed by the modified Rankin Scale (mRS), adjusted for confounders using inverse probability of treatment weighting (IPTW). Secondary outcomes included good (mRS ⩽ 2 or 3 if baseline mRS was 3) and excellent (mRS ⩽ 1) outcomes, ischemic recurrences, hemorrhagic transformation, and 90-day mortality.

Results

Of 601 patients, 69 underwent RS. RS did not significantly impact the 90-day mRS shift (adjusted common odds ratio [acOR] 1.06, [95% CI 0.85–1.32]; p = 0.613). However, RS was associated with higher rates of good (18.8% vs 11.7%; aOR 1.41, [95% CI 1.00–1.99]; p = 0.048) and excellent outcomes (17.4% vs 5.7%; aOR 2.90, [95% CI 1.89–4.43]; p < 0.001). Symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (9.4% vs 7.4%; p = 0.507) and 90-day mortality (30.4% vs 39.8%; p = 0.135) were similar between groups. Stroke recurrence (4.2% vs 1.7%; p = 0.247) showed no significant difference at 33-month follow-up.

Discussion and conclusion

RS may increase the likelihood of good and excellent outcomes in anterior LVO stroke after failed MT, without increasing long-term risks. Further randomized trials are warranted for comprehensive validation.
Coexistent localized primary renal lymphoma within renal cell carcinoma in the native kidney of a kidney transplant recipient: A case report
Authors: Bharati Joyita , Narasimhan Ramya , Sadrzadeh Hossein , J Sloan Mark , Zhao Qing , Ghai Sandeep , Francis Jean
Published: January 2025

The coexistence of two different malignancies in one site is rare. Development of renal cell carcinoma (RCC) and lymphoma in the same individual is speculated to be due to common immune mechanism and/or genetic predisposition. We report a tumor comprising RCC and localized primary renal diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) in the native kidney of a 53-year-old kidney transplant recipient after 15 years of transplant. Patient had stable renal function on tacrolimus, mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) and prednisolone. On a trauma pan scan (as he reported after an assault), the left kidney was seen to be completely replaced by a mass. There was no imaging evidence of metastasis. A radical left nephrectomy was performed. Pathology showed clear cell RCC and a focus of DLBCL within the tumor which was staged 1E. EBV antigen in the tumor was negative. He was treated with three cycles of rituximab, cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine, and prednisolone (R-CHOP) as adjuvant therapy. MMF was withheld during chemotherapy and he continued to be on tacrolimus and prednisone. He remains disease-free 2 years after treatment. Our patient presents challenges that arise in managing two different tumors within the same site in an immunosuppressed individual at risk of relapse.
Mothering in the Balmiki Community: Navigating Daughters’ Education in the Disadvantaged Urban Neighbourhood in Delhi
Authors: Vandana
Published: January 2025

Studies have highlighted how the neighbourhood influences and shapes the overall development of its dwellers, particularly children and youth. One of the focuses of these studies has been mapping the negative impact and risks children and youth go through while living in disadvantaged neighbourhoods. However, living in a disadvantaged neighbourhood only partially determines the effect. It can also be mediated or reconstructed by other social contexts, particularly family and parenting practices. The literature has shown the anxieties and helplessness of the parents, particularly mothers, but pays limited attention to the processes of negotiation mothers do within families and neighbourhoods. This article presents findings from a study that involves interviews with 30 resilient mothers from the Balmiki community living in diverse, underprivileged and stigmatized neighbourhoods in Delhi. Mothers who desire their children, particularly daughters, to live with dignity and get into modern occupations through competitive education feel further marginalized while living in the urban slums. This article explores mothers’ anxieties, apprehensions and fears while raising young daughters in disadvantaged neighbourhoods in Delhi. It also aims to understand the mothers’ agency while addressing daughters’ safety and ensuring access, sustenance and completion of school education.
Sustainable Urban Cultural Heritage Policy in the City of Yogyakarta, Indonesia
Authors: Ariwibowo Gregorius Andika , Fibiona Indra
Published: January 2025

This study investigates the preservation of urban heritage in Yogyakarta, Indonesia, exploring the delicate balance between conserving cultural heritage and fostering modern urban development. In the face of rapid urbanization and globalization, Yogyakarta’s rich Javanese heritage encounters significant challenges in maintaining its historical and cultural assets while accommodating contemporary needs. This research underscores the importance of urban heritage—including historical, cultural, and architectural elements—in preserving the identity of metropolitan areas. The primary aim of this study is to analyse Yogyakarta’s policy on cultural preservation, focusing on the city government’s strategies to harmonize heritage conservation with urban development. The methodology employed includes Focus Group Discussions with local leaders, interviews with academics, analysis of government policies, on-site observations, and media content analysis. The findings indicate that Yogyakarta’s approach to cultural heritage management represents a distinctive model within Indonesia, successfully integrating heritage preservation with economic growth and cultural identity. This approach emphasizes the crucial roles of the community and government in safeguarding heritage and traditions. The study proposes a balanced method of development and conservation, presenting Yogyakarta’s model as a potential guide for other cities. This model highlights the value of community involvement and the significance of cultural heritage in enriching contemporary and future societal contexts.
Percutaneous nephroscopy versus flexible ureteroscopy in the treatment of calyceal diverticulum calculi: a meta-analysis
Authors: Hu Conglei , Ma Rui , Shao Yongxiang , Liang Zilong , Cheng Meng , Pang Haofeng , Yao Liping , Liu Fei
Published: January 2025

Background

There is still controversy about the best minimally invasive surgical method for the treatment of calyceal diverticulum calculi. We conducted meta-analysis to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of PCNL and FURL in the treatment of calyceal diverticulum calculi.

Methods

We searched Pubmed, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, Embase, Clinical trial platform, CNKI, VIP until April 2024. We utilized the Newcastle–Ottawa Scale (NOS, 0 to 9 stars) to assess the quality of the included literature.

Results

Totally 15 high-quality studies with 755 patients were included in the meta-analysis. Meta-analysis showed that FURL group was better than PCNL group in blood loss [SMD = 1.713, 95%CI:(0.858, 2.568), Z = 3.928, P = 0.000] and hospital stay [SMD = 2.611, 95%CI: (1.726, 3.496), Z = 5.784, P = 0.000], there was no significant difference in operating time [SMD = 0.079, 95%CI:(-0.43, 0.589), Z = 0.306, P = 0.760], complication rate [OR = 1.793,95%CI: (0.952,2.602), Z = 1.586, P = 0.113], stone-free rate [OR = 1.339, 95%CI: (0.576, 3.112), Z = 0.678, P = 0.497] and symptom-free rate [OR = 3.826,95%CI: (0.561,10.238), Z = 0.966, P = 0.334] as well.

Conclusion

Whether FURL is indeed superior to PCNL in safety, whether FURL's efficacy is really close to PCNL, and whether FURL can surpass PCNL as the first choice for the treatment of renal diverticulum stones in the future need to be further verified by multi-center, large-sample and high-quality studies.
Ecological drivers shaping mainstem and tributary fish communities in the upper Jinsha River, southeastern Qinghai-Tibet Plateau
Authors: Lin Pengcheng , Fujiwara Masami , Ma Baoshan , Xia Zhijun , Wu Xinghua , Wang Chunling , Chang Tao , Gao Xin
Published: January 2025

Background

Elucidating spatial variation in ecological communities and the mechanisms of community assembly is crucial for biodiversity conservation in river ecosystems. The upper Jinsha River located in the eastern part of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, is experiencing intensified human activities, such as hydropower development. In this study, fish surveys were conducted at 38 sites, including 15 mainstem sites and 23 tributary sites of the upper Jinsha River, China, to analyze the spatial patterns and ecological drivers of fish communities.

Results

NMDS and PERMANOVA analysis revealed significant disparities in the fish communities between the mainstem and tributaries. Schizothorax dolichonema and Schizopygopsis malacanthus dominated the mainstem, whereas Schizopygopsis malacanthus, Schizothorax wangchiachii, and Triplophysa stenura dominated the tributaries. Fish beta diversity exhibited substantial turnover across the mainstem, tributaries, and entire river basin. Both environmental factors (e.g., altitude and the proportion of cobble substrate) and spatial variables were significantly correlated with fish beta diversity, but their relative importance differed between the mainstem and tributaries. Specifically, in the mainstem, environmental variables emerged as the primary drivers. In contrast, spatial factors assumed a predominant role in the tributary communities.

Conclusions

The results suggested that environmental filtering predominantly drove fish community assembly in the mainstem, whereas dispersal limitation exerted had a greater influence on the fish communities in the tributaries. These results contribute to our understanding of the spatial patterns and formation mechanisms of fish assemblages between mainstem and tributaries in high-altitude rivers, such as the upper Jinsha River. In the context of hydropower development in the upper Jinsha River, our findings offer insights into the management and conservation of fish diversity.
Safety and efficacy of CD33-targeted CAR-NK cell therapy for relapsed/refractory AML: preclinical evaluation and phase I trial
Authors: Huang Ruihao , Wang Xiaoqi , Yan Hongju , Tan Xu , Ma Yingying , Wang Maihong , Han Xiao , Liu Jia , Gao Li , Gao Lei , Jing Guangjun , Zhang Cheng , Wen Qin , Zhang Xi
Published: January 2025

Background

Due to the lack of effective treatment options, the prognosis of patients with relapsed/refractory acute myeloid leukemia (R/R AML) remains poor. Although chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T-cell therapy has shown promising effects in acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) and lymphoma, its application in R/R AML is limited by “off-target” effects, which lead to severe bone marrow suppression and limit its clinical application. CAR-natural killer (NK) cells not only exhibit antitumor effects but also demonstrate increased safety and universality. We have developed a new CAR construct that targets CD33 and modified NK cells, specifically eliminating AML cells while reducing severe side effects on stem cells.

Methods

The CD33-targeting domain was selected by CAR-T cells, and this optimized CAR construct was subsequently transduced into umbilical cord-derived NK cells via a retroviral vector. Preclinical efficacy and safety studies were conducted both in vitro and in vivo. Ten eligible patients with R/R AML aged 18–65 years who received one or more infusions of anti-CD33 CAR-NK cells following the preconditioning regimen were enrolled. We assessed the response rates and treatment-related side effects post-infusion, while also documenting the long-term efficacy of the therapy.

Results

The CD33 sequence was selected on the basis of its antitumor efficacy and safety in CAR-T-cell studies conducted both in vitro and in vivo. CD33 CAR-NK cells demonstrated efficacy comparable to that of CD33 CAR-T cells but showed limited toxicity to hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs). Ten patients, with a median of five prior lines of treatment, completed the efficacy evaluation (range, 3–8). No grade 3–4 adverse events were observed, except bone marrow suppression, which was relieved within one month. No cases of immune effector cell–associated neurotoxicity syndrome (ICANS) or graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) were reported following CAR-NK cell infusion. Only one patient experienced grade 2 cytokine release syndrome (CRS) and presented with persistent fever. By day 28, six of ten patients had achieved minimal residual disease (MRD)-negative complete remission.

Conclusions

Our preclinical and clinical data demonstrated the primary efficacy and safety of CD33 CAR-NK cells for patients with R/R AML. Expanded samples and longer follow-up periods are needed to provide further efficacy data.

Trial registration

NCT05008575 (https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT05008575).
Sepsis-induced cardiogenic shock: controversies and evidence gaps in diagnosis and management
Authors: Sato Ryota , Hasegawa Daisuke , Guo Stephanie , Nuqali Abdulelah E. , Moreno Jesus E. Pino
Published: January 2025

Sepsis often leads to vasoplegia and a hyperdynamic cardiac state, with treatment focused on restoring vascular tone. However, sepsis can also cause reversible myocardial dysfunction, particularly in the elderly with pre-existing heart conditions. The Surviving Sepsis Campaign Guidelines recommend using dobutamine with norepinephrine or epinephrine alone for patients with septic shock with cardiac dysfunction and persistent hypoperfusion despite adequate fluid resuscitation and stable blood pressure. However, the definition of cardiac dysfunction and hypoperfusion in these guidelines remains controversial, leading to varied clinical interpretations. Cardiac dysfunction with persistent hypoperfusion despite restoring adequate preload and afterload is often considered a cardiogenic shock. Therefore, sepsis complicated by new-onset myocardial dysfunction or worsening of underlying myocardial dysfunction due to sepsis-induced cardiomyopathy, resulting in cardiogenic shock, can be defined as “Sepsis-induced cardiogenic shock (SICS)”. SICS is known to be associated with significantly higher mortality. A history of cardiac dysfunction is a strong predictor of SICS, highlighting the need for precise diagnosis and management given the aging population and rising cardiovascular disease prevalence. Therefore, SICS might benefit from early invasive hemodynamic monitoring with a pulmonary artery catheter (PAC), unlike those with septic shock alone. While routine PAC monitoring for all septic patients is impractical, echocardiography could be a useful screening tool for high-risk individuals. If echocardiography indicates cardiogenic shock, PAC might be warranted for continuous monitoring. The role of inotropes in SICS remains uncertain. Mechanical circulatory support (MCS) might be considered for severe cases, as high-dose vasopressors and inotropes are associated with worse outcomes. Correct patient selection is the key to improving outcomes with MCS. Engaging a cardiogenic shock team for a multidisciplinary approach can be beneficial. In summary, addressing the evidence gaps in SICS diagnosis and management is crucial. Echocardiography for screening, advanced monitoring with PAC, and careful patient selection for MCS are important for optimal patient care.
Trends and cost structure of drug-based secondary prevention of ischemic strokes
Authors: Kohlhase Konstantin , Bohmann Ferdinand O. , Grefkes Christian , Strzelczyk Adam , Willems Laurent M.
Published: January 2025

Background

Advances in secondary stroke prevention, including direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs), dual antiplatelet therapies (DAPT), and cardiovascular risk management, have changed costs over the past decade. This study aimed to evaluate annual treatment costs and trends in drug-based secondary prophylaxis after ischemic strokes.

Methods

Annual treatment costs were evaluated using the net costs per defined daily dosage (DDD) of discharge medications for ischemic stroke patients treated in 2020 at the University Hospital Frankfurt, Germany. Evaluated drugs included acetylsalicylic acid, adenosine diphosphate inhibitors, DOACs, vitamin K antagonists, lipid-lowering drugs (LLD), antihypertensives (AHT), and oral antidiabetics (OD). Kruskal–Wallis test examined intergroup differences in substance groups and stroke etiologies. DDD development between 2004 and 2021 was further evaluated for significant trend changes using an interrupted time series analysis.

Results

The study included 422 patients (70.5 ± 12.9 years, 43.1% female). Etiologies divided into large-artery atherosclerosis (29.9%), cardioembolic (25.6%), cryptogenic (26.8%), and small-vessel disease (17.8%). The total estimated annual drug expenditure was € 241,808; of which 51.6% was due to DOACs (median € 1157 [Q1–Q3:1157–1157], p < 0.006), 20.0% to AHTs (€127.8 [76.7–189.8]), 15.7% to ODs (€525.6 [76.7–641.5]), and 8.7% to LLDs (€43.8 [43.8–43.8]). Cardioembolic strokes had the highest annual costs per patient (€1328.6 [1169.0–1403.4]) with higher expenditure for DOACs (p < 0.001) and AHTs (p < 0.026). DAPT costs were highest for large-vessel strokes (p < 0.001) and accounted for 2.5% of total costs. There was a significant trend change in DDDs for clopidogrel in 2010 (p < 0.001), for prasugrel in 2017 (p < 0.001), for ASA in 2015 (p < 0.001) and for DOACs in 2012 (p = 0.017).

Conclusions

DOACs for cardioembolic strokes were the primary cost driver in drug-based secondary stroke prevention, whereas permanent ASA and DAPT only accounted for a minor cost proportion. LLDs were associated with lower costs than AHTs and ODs. There were significant changes in DDDs for the respective substances, whereas the costs for DOACs as the most expensive pharmaceuticals remained widely stable across the last decade.
Sustainable dressings for wound healing
Authors: Gupta Munishwar Nath , Rangaraju Avinash , Ambre Premlata
Published: January 2025

The field of chronic wound care has been rapidly evolving. With a market size for care of chronic wounds in billions of USD, this is not an insignificant area to encourage more sustainable practices and processes. The sourcing of starting materials for wound dressings from renewable resources is the first crucial step in ensuring that the environmental impact is minimized. Next important choice is to select methodologies in accordance with the principles of green chemistry. This involves utilizing green solvents as reaction media in the chemical processes for preparing dressing materials.

In many cases, like production of hydrogels, chemical crosslinking reagents are often employed. These can be, in general, easily replaced by enzymes like peroxidases, tyrosinases and sortases. Process intensification strategies have emerged as a powerful approach to ensure economy and sustainability in production of materials at large scale. Use of microwave radiations and ultrasonication instead of heat to accelerate reaction rates in production of dressing materials helps in many cases to inject sustainability in care of chronic wounds.

This review attempts to highlight the ongoing efforts and future possibilities in the area of the development of cost-effective wound dressings by sustainable methods.

Graphical Abstract
Prosthetic Memories
Authors: Yoon Hyaesin
Published: January 2025

In Prosthetic Memories, Hyaesin Yoon examines the entanglements of humans, animals, and technologies across South Korea and the United States at the turn of the twenty-first century. Interrogating a variety of body-technology interfaces, Yoon outlines an emergent mode of prosthetic memory in which human memory is extended into both machines and animals. Prosthetic memory overflows and provides an alternative to familiar human perception, Western scientific reason, and other senses of knowledge in ways that can foster networks of solidarity, care, and empathy between human and nonhuman subjects. Among other sites and subjects, Yoon examines tongue surgery to correct English pronunciation in Korea, Asian American poetry that engages the human-machine divide, transnational dog cloning, and stem cell research, each of which activates potent postcolonial feminist mnemonics and alliances. In so doing, Yoon narrates the countermemories of racialized, gendered, diasporic, queer, and marginalized human and nonhuman others that work against the violent and isolating biopolitical and neoliberal forces in contemporary society.
Spinal cord elongation enables proportional regulation of the zebrafish posterior body
Authors: Saunders Dillan , Camacho-Macorra Carlos , Steventon Benjamin
Published: January 2025

Early embryos display a remarkable ability to regulate tissue patterning in response to changes in tissue size. However, it is not clear whether this ability continues into post-gastrulation stages. Here, we performed targeted removal of dorsal progenitors in the zebrafish tailbud using multiphoton ablation. This led to a proportional reduction in the length of the spinal cord and paraxial mesoderm in the tail, revealing a capacity for the regulation of tissue morphogenesis during tail formation. Following analysis of cell proliferation, gene expression, signalling and cell movements, we found no evidence of cell fate switching from mesoderm to neural fate to compensate for neural progenitor loss. Furthermore, tail paraxial mesoderm length is not reduced upon direct removal of an equivalent number of mesoderm progenitors, ruling out the hypothesis that neuromesodermal competent cells enable proportional regulation. Instead, reduction in cell number across the spinal cord reduces both spinal cord and paraxial mesoderm length. We conclude that spinal cord elongation is a driver of paraxial mesoderm elongation in the zebrafish tail and that this can explain proportional regulation upon neural progenitor reduction.
Characteristics and Causes of Sports-Related Sudden Death in the General Population during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Azeli Youcef , Rio Sonia , Toledo Yobanka , Grazioli Gonzalo , Brotons Daniel , Solà-Muñoz Silvia , Jiménez-Fábrega Xavier , Escalada Xavier , Brugada Ramon , Brugada Josep , Ortega Marisa , Barbería Eneko
Published: January 2025

Purpose

COVID-19 is an independent risk factor for cardiovascular disease. The aim of this study is to determine the burden, characteristics, and causes of sudden death in sport (SrSD) before and after the COVID-19 pandemic in the general population.

Methods

Retrospective observational study. Autopsied SrSD studied in Catalonia were consecutively included. Two periods were considered: Before lockdown (January 2019–March 2020) and after lockdown (March 2020–December 2021). Initial care variables and causes of death were collected. Periods were compared, and logistic regression analyses were performed.

Results

A total of 156 SrSD were collected, with no differences in the incidence between the study periods. Of the cases, 98.7% were male, with a mean age of 55.8 years (SD 12.1). Cycling was practised by 40.0%. Coronary artery disease was the leading cause of death, with no difference before and after lockdown. No cases of myocarditis were described. Of the total number of SrSD, 98 (62.8%) received a CPR attempt. After lockdown, the SrSD that occurred in country areas decreased (40.6% vs 24.4 %, p = 0.032), the rate of CPR attempts (54.3% vs 69.8%, p = 0.034) and hands only CPR increased (76.6% vs 57.9%, p = 0.048).

Conclusions

There were no changes in the burden and causes of SrSD before and after the COVID-19 lockdown. Differences were found in the SrSD initial care received due to the change of basic life support recommendations and the sport activity habits.