bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A prognostic index for deceased donor kidneys and criteria for identifying suitable candidates for kidney transplantation from expanded criteria donors with prolonged waiting times
Authors: Koo Tai Yeon , Lee Joongyub , Na Omi , Lee Yonggu , Jeong Jong Cheol , Yang Jaeseok
Published: February 2025

Introduction: The kidney donor profile index (KDPI) is a valuable prognostic tool in deceased donor kidney transplantation (DDKT), while its optimization for each country using local data is essential. It remains unclear which patients derive survival benefits from expanded criteria donor (ECD) DDKT compared to waitlist or standard criteria donor (SCD) DDKT, particularly in the context of long waiting times. This study aims to develop a prognostic index for donor kidneys and propose criteria to identify suitable candidates for ECD DDKT in Korea.
Methods: Two prediction models were developed using data from two cohorts based on national databases (the Korean Network for Organ Sharing and the National Health Insurance Data Sharing Service): cohort for the prediction of graft prognosis (n=6,272) and cohort for the prediction of suitable candidates for ECD DDKT (n=30,183).
Results: The Korean KDPI (K-KDPI) comprises five donor factors (age, height, diabetes mellitus, serum creatinine levels, and hepatitis C virus), associated with graft failure. The discriminatory ability of the K-KDPI for graft outcomes surpassed that of the US KDPI and dichotomous ECD criteria. ECD kidneys (K-KDPI ≥70%) showed worse allograft survival compared to SCD kidneys (K-KDPI <70%). Candidates aged ≥40 years, with negative panel reactive antibody, and without diabetes mellitus had a significantly lower mortality risk with ECD DDKT than with waitlist-or-SCD DDKT, making them suitable for ECD DDKT.
Conclusion: The K-KDPI and criteria for identifying suitable ECD recipients are expected to improve the quality assessment and efficient utilization of ECD kidneys in Korea with long waiting times.
Quantifying the timing of gyral and sulcal formation relative to growth in the ferret cerebral cortex
Authors: Garcia Kara E. , Basinski Christopher , Kroenke Christopher D.
Published: February 2025

Mounting evidence indicates that the cerebral cortical folding pattern conveys information relevant to brain function, as well as the developmental trajectory leading to the observed pattern at maturity. However, relatively little is known about the biomechanics of gyral and sulcal formation. Ferrets are a tractable animal model for studying folding, in which this process occurs over the first 40 days of postnatal life. Recently, high resolution magnetic resonance brain imaging data have been made available for a template representing 10 ferrets (5 male, 5 female) at 6 equally spaced time points ranging from postnatal day (P)8 to P38. In this study, local cerebral cortical thickness, curvature, and relative surface area are mapped onto cortical mid-thickness surface mesh models derived from the developmental template. Systematic comparisons between cortical growth and changes in curvature that accompany gyral and sulcal formation enable delineation of the sequence of changes of these anatomical characteristics during folding. The cerebral cortex is found to transition between two patterns of regionally varying cortical thickness. In early stages of gyral and sulcal formation, the cortex is relatively thick in regions destined to exhibit high magnitudes of surface curvature (folding), regardless of whether the region will become part of a gyrus or a sulcus. In the mature brain, a different regional pattern of thickness is achieved in which gyral cortex is thicker than sulcal cortex. Surface area expansion is also observed to relate to folding, as reflected in the regional pattern of surface curvature changes. Over a given developmental interval, changes in surface curvature are positively correlated with subsequent surface area expansion but negatively correlated with previous surface area expansion. Together, these comparisons lay out a sequence of growth and folding events. First, relative thickening of the cortex occurs in regions that will be gyral and sulcal at maturity. These regions undergo increases in curvature, facilitating surface area increases in the folded cortex. During the final phases of fold formation, the rate of thickness increase in gyri outpaces that in sulci.
Poderia o riso emendar a tristeza?
Authors: Siviero José Marcelo
Published: February 2025

Trata-se de pensar o riso (enquanto expressão da hilaritas) como uma possível maneira de operar a emendatio espinosana, no sentido de dispor o corpo e a mente, por um treino e instrução propiciados a partir de uma articulação de afetos alegres, ao fortalecimento e manutenção crescentes de sua potência de agir. No entanto, por que escolhemos o riso, aparentemente uma manifestação mais física da hilaridade, como o ponto privilegiado de análise? Tal escolha se justifica através da interpretação fornecida por Henri Bergson em seus ensaios sobre o cômico. Enquanto censura satírica e ato de correção, o riso observado pelo filósofo francês contemporâneo visa restaurar a espontaneidade dos sujeitos alijados da duração e da intuição do mundo. Recuperar essa criatividade intuitiva de princípio – que se correlaciona com o conceito espinosano de felicidade, escopo do Tratado da Emenda do Intelecto, mas que se cumpre efetivamente na Ética – é o objetivo de nosso estudo.
Marilena Chaui: Pensamento, afetos e análise da obra
Authors: Macedo Rodolfo Alves de
Published: February 2025

Resenha do livro "Marilena Chaui: pensamento, afetos e análise da obra", de Daysi Bregantini (Org.)
Usos schmittianos de conceitos spinozanos: Um caso do método de um falsificador
Authors: Guimaraens Francisco de , Rocha Maurício de Albuquerque
Published: February 2025

This work involves the analysis of Spinoza’s presence in Carl Schmitt’s works. This paper´s objectives are the following: a) identify Schmitt’s reasons for supporting his political discourse on Spinoza notions; b) clarify the contradictions between the different images of Spinoza that Schmitt projects in his writings. To achieve these objectives, the investigation here in carried out addressed both the contradictory Spinoza character created by Schmitt (anti-mechanistic philosopher, critic of rationalism, liberal, thinker of concrete individuality) and the spinozist concepts handled by the jurist (conatus, natura naturans, freedom of conscience). The elucidation of Schmitt’s tactics of using philosophers that are hostile to his project - the case of Spinoza - is relevant as it makes clearer the rhetorical operations used by Schmitt in the 1920s and in the early years of the 1930s to increase adherence to unspoken purposes of his intellectual activity before joining Nazism.
Lead Yourself through Change: How Self-Leadership Buffers the Impact of Change Fatigue on Employee Outcomes
Authors: Linnenborn Verena , Borchert Margret
Published: February 2025

In this study, we shed light on the underlying psychological mechanism of the negative impact of change fatigue on employees’ extra-role performance, which represents a positive change outcome. Drawing from self-determination theory in combination with job demands–resources theory, we assume that the negative impact of change fatigue on extra-role performance is mediated by psychological need satisfaction. Furthermore, by considering the buffer hypothesis in job demands–resources theory, we hypothesize that self-leadership represents a sufficient personal resource to compensate for the negative effects of change fatigue. To test our hypotheses, we investigated a two-wave sample from a German insurance company. The results partially confirm our theoretical predictions. For organizational practitioners, the results imply that self-leadership represents a valuable personal resource for employees to mitigate the psychological consequences of fatigue caused by organizational change. Thus, especially organizations that are undergoing change may provide training for employees to learn to apply self-leadership strategies.
Vertical Transmission of Prosociality: Basic Human Values and the Context of Intergenerational Transmission in Indonesia
Authors: Septarini Berlian G. , Hamamura Takeshi , Breen Lauren J.
Published: February 2025

Prosocial behavior is essential for human species such that it is expected in every culture. One way to sustain this positive behavior is through successful transfer where the later generation maintains prosociality as cultural information relevant to prosocial behavior. Informed by the cultural dynamics perspective, the current study focused on the microlevel phenomena and examined the mechanism of vertical transmission of prosociality from parent to children. A total of 208 Indonesian parent-young adult dyads completed the survey designed to examine the five models of vertical transmission focusing on values as the context of transmission of prosociality in Indonesia. Statistically significant support was found for the model that prosociality was transferred from parents to their young adult children moderated through the zeitgeist values (i.e., value climate that the mainstream society constructed). Specifically, the transmission of prosociality from Indonesian parents to their young adult children was more likely to occur in the presence of stronger zeitgeist values in social focus (i.e., universalism, benevolence, tradition, conformity, and security-societal) and lower zeitgeist values in personal focus (i.e., self-direction, stimulation, hedonism, achievement, power, and security-personal). This finding contributes to our understanding of cultural transmission through the lens of cultural dynamics, particularly from the non-Western perspective, which is currently underexplored.
Neighborhood Drug Demand and Risk of Foster Care Entries
Authors: Thurston Holly , Freisthler Bridget , Wolf Jennifer Price
Published: February 2025

Parental drug abuse has been repeatedly associated with child maltreatment risk. Similarly, rates of drug demand in neighborhoods have been found to be positively associated with rates of child maltreatment. Demand for illicit drugs is difficult to measure as it is illegal behavior. Here, we use survey data from Sacramento, California to estimate demand for illicit drugs at the neighborhood level. Data were analyzed using Bayesian space-time conditional autoregressive models to assess associations between neighborhood drug market potentials and foster care entries. We find that higher drug demand was positively associated with increased drug-related foster care entries (RR 1.06, CI 1.02–1.10). Interventions at the policy level that decrease drug availability in high demand neighborhoods may also decrease rates of drug related foster care entries.
The Relationship Between Frailty, Spiritual Orientation, and Death Anxiety in Older Adults With Chronic Illness
Authors: Sazak Yasemin , Kalayci Meltem , Aytekin Kanadli Keriman , Olgun Nermin
Published: February 2025

The purpose of the current work was to identify the levels of frailty, spiritual orientation, and death anxiety and the relationship between them in older adults with chronic illness. This descriptive, cross-sectional, and correlational study was conducted with 221 participants. Of the participants, 43.9% were frail. Considering the correlation between the scales, a positive moderate significant correlation was identified between the FRAIL Scale and the Death Anxiety Scale. In contrast, a negative moderate significant correlation was revealed between the Spiritual Orientation Scale, FRAIL Scale, and Death Anxiety Scale. When the mediator variable, death anxiety, was not included in the model, the total effect of spiritual orientation on death anxiety was significant. It was revealed that death anxiety mediated the relationship between spiritual orientation and frailty. Hence, it is recommended that spiritual care needs and death anxiety be evaluated in the assessment of patients’ frailty levels and patient care.
Complex striate-frontal projection and specific frontal gyrus dysfunctions concern with the delusional misidentification syndrome: A case report and literature review
Authors: Matsuzono Kosuke , Onuki Yoshiyuki , Otsuka Kyoko , Hiki Honoka , Anan Yuhei , Mashiko Takafumi , Koide Reiji , Kunii Naoto , Kawai Kensuke , Fujimoto Shigeru
Published: February 2025

Delusional misidentification, a rare syndrome in which a patient displays persistent delusional misidentification of individuals or objects, occurs in several types of dementia. However, the pathology of delusional misidentification is still unclear, and there was no data pertaining to striate-frontal projection. Here, we report a case of delusional misidentification following frontotemporal dementia in which complex striate-frontal and some specific frontal gyrus dysfunction were observed. In our presented case, delusional misidentification progressed following frontal atrophy. Believing that her actual daughter had been replaced by her niece, her symptoms of delusional misidentification and frontal atrophy progressed in the short term, and social arrangement was necessary three months after the onset. There were no abnormal neurological findings including parkinsonism and general cognitive function test scores were preserved. Validated by dopamine transporter single-photon emission computed tomography, right unilateral striatal uptake decreased significantly without parkinsonism or Parkinson's disease. In addition, of specific concern, functional magnetic resonance images showed left opercular inferior frontal gyrus and right superior frontal gyrus dysfunctions. Our case study highlights complex striate-frontal projection and specific frontal gyrus dysfunctions associated with the pathology of delusional misidentification syndrome.
A Meta-Visual-Analysis of Single-Case Experimental Design Research
Authors: Kinney Chad E. L. , Dowdy Art , Wolfe Katie
Published: February 2025

Visual analysis is the primary method to detect functional relations in single-case experimental design (SCED) research. Meta-Visual-Analysis (MVA) is a novel approach used to synthesize SCED data where the estimated effect size measures are principally anchored to primary aspects of visual analysis: change in the magnitude of level, trend, variability, and trend-adjusted level of projected trends. For each of these aspects, percentage point differences between baseline and intervention conditions are estimated and quantified for every participant across studies. MVA effect sizes are standardized, and their aggregates are graphically displayed in a manner similar to individual SCED graphs. MVA graphs are compared and visually analyzed with the aim of better understanding the effectiveness and generality of interventions across SCED studies. In this discussion paper we provide general steps to conduct an MVA and describe MVA’s utility in reviewing, organizing, and directing future SCED research syntheses.
Enhanced mechanical performance of 0.13C-7Mn TRIP steel welds with optimized tempering
Authors: Zhu Yunming , Liu Teng , Zhou Yongqiang , Zhu Zhengqiang
Published: February 2025

In response to the brittleness issues of 0.13C-7Mn TRIP steel welds, a heat treatment process with varying holding times was designed. This study investigates the effects of tempering on the microstructure and mechanical properties of the welds. After holding at 250 °C for 10, 20, and 30 min, the peak load in tensile shear tests increased by 89.6%, 104.8%, and 41.6%, respectively, compared to the samples that were not tempered. Furthermore, the failure mode transitioned from complete brittle interfacial fracture (IF) to more ductile modes, including partial interfacial fracture (PIF) and pull-out fracture (PF). After tempering, the martensite in the weld zone transforms into tempered martensite. The hardness of both the heat-affected zone and the fusion zone (FZ) decreased by approximately 20 HV, leading to a more uniform hardness distribution, leading to a more uniform hardness distribution. Additionally, the segregation of manganese (Mn) in the fusion zone is also mitigated.
Visceral leishmaniasis related secondary haemophagocytic syndrome: A case report
Authors: Chen Chen , Yu Yankun , Zhu Ma Long Zhen , Nin Jing , Zhang Daqian , Nong Weixia , Pan Xin
Published: February 2025

Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) is a parasitic disease that can trigger haemophagocytic syndrome (HPS), making its prompt diagnosis crucial. The application of metagenome next-generation sequencing (mNGS) provides a rapid diagnostic approach, particularly for patients with negative bone marrow aspiration results. We present here, a case of a male patient in his early 50s who presented with fever and abdominal pain. Routine examinations failed to identify its specific cause. However, diagnosis through mNGS helped prevent a potentially fatal outcome.
Personal and library-related causes of library anxiety among Kenyan undergraduate students
Authors: Sawe Emily Cherono , Nakitare Joel , Kwanya Tom
Published: February 2025

Library anxiety is the uncomfortable emotional feeling experienced by library users when they anticipate, imagine or attempt to use a library or library resources. Many library users worldwide experience library anxiety at one time or another. This paper explores the personal and library-related causes of anxiety among undergraduate university students in Kenya. A cross-sectional quantitative survey was used to conduct the study. The study population was 200 undergraduate students from two private and two public universities in Kenya. Structured questionnaires were used to collect data, which were analysed descriptively using SPSS. The findings established that personal factors such as technical skills and library-related ones such as librarians’ friendliness and approachability, the library outlook, and the resources within it, among others, cause library anxiety among undergraduate students in Kenya. Librarians can assist users in overcoming library anxiety to feel more comfortable and confident in using the library's resources and services by creating a welcoming environment in the library, offering library tours and orientations to help users become acquainted with the library and being approachable, friendly and helpful to users.
Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction Return to Sport Testing Passing Rates for Healthy People: A Systematic Review
Authors: Wood Audria , Hargreaves Mathew , Manfredi John N. , Harrell Maxwell , Marks Benson Elizabeth , Rahaman Clay , Dayal Dev , Brabston Eugene W. , Evely Thomas , Casp Aaron , Momaya Amit M.
Published: February 2025

Background:

Return to sport (RTS) is a common goal after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction (ACLR) but carries a relatively high risk of reinjury with up to 20% to 25% of athletes experiencing graft rupture or contralateral ACL tear. While there is increased emphasis on establishing safe RTS criteria for athletes to return to previous activity levels, studies show that even healthy individuals have difficulty passing RTS testing.

Purpose:

To synthesize data concerning whether healthy individuals can pass ACLR RTS rehabilitation tests.

Study Design:

Systematic review; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

Following the established PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines, the authors conducted a systematic literature search in May 2023. Three databases were used in the search (PubMed, EMBASE, and SPORTDiscus) to retrieve all studies that conducted ACLR RTS rehabilitation tests on healthy individuals. Tests included were isometric strength, isokinetic strength, hop, and balance tests. The search was performed in duplicate, and a quality assessment of all studies was included.

Results:

A total of 1724 studies were retrieved, of which 32 were included, involving 1552 controls with no history of ACL injury. From the studies analyzed, 5.3% to 42.2% of healthy participants failed 6 different hop tests, 15.2% failed the Star Excursion Balance Test, 37% failed the isometric knee flexion test, 50% failed the isometric knee extension test, and 23.7% to 28.9% failed the drop vertical jump test. An asymmetry index ≥10% was found in 6 of the 18 isokinetic tests and 2 of the 14 isometric tests. Hop testing was the most common test in the included studies (56.3%), followed by balance testing (31.3%), isometric strength testing (31.3%), isokinetic strength testing (25%), and drop vertical jump (6.3%).

Conclusion:

Many healthy individuals fail ACLR RTS tests, with some having an inherent variation from side to side that is >10%. The passing threshold for RTS testing should be a value that is practical yet helps reduce reinjury rates.
Return to Sport in Athletes After Osteochondral Allograft Transplantation: A Systematic Review
Authors: Touhey Daniel C. , Beady Nikko D. , Tartibi Sina , Brophy Robert H. , Matava Matthew J. , Smith Matthew V. , Knapik Derrick M.
Published: February 2025

Background:

Management of symptomatic osteochondral defects of the knee remains challenging because of the limited inherent vascularity and healing potential of articular cartilage. Osteochondral allograft (OCA) transplantation has yielded satisfactory results in appropriate patients; however, the effect of OCA transplantation on athletes seeking to return to sport (RTS) remains largely unknown.

Purpose:

To systematically review the literature to better understand outcomes after OCA, focusing on RTS rate and timing, and the incidence of postoperative complications.

Study Design:

Systematic review; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

Studies included in the PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library databases from inception to August 2024 that reported on athletes participating at the recreational, high school, collegiate, and professional levels undergoing OCA transplantation for osteochondral defects in the knee were identified. Inclusion criteria included studies reporting on patients identified as athletes undergoing OCA transplantation with reported origin, lesion characteristics (size and location), RTS rate and timing, complications, reoperations, and patient-reported outcomes.

Results:

A total of 14 studies, consisting of 471 athletes undergoing OCA transplantation with a weighted mean follow-up of 51.1 months, were identified. The weighted mean patient age was 31.4 years (range, 15-69 years), with 61% of patients being male. Lesion origin was reported in 49% (230/471) of patients, with osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) reported in 44% (100/230). The medial femoral condyle was the most common defect location (44%; 68/153). Lesion size ranged from 1 to 13.94 cm2. Sixteen percent (75/471) of patients were classified as competitive athletes, with basketball (n = 21) being the most common sport. RTS was reported in 72% (338/468) of patients, with 84% (231/275) returning at an equal or higher level of play at a weighted mean of 11.1 months (range, 6-26 months) after OCA. Complications were reported in 12% (41/351) of patients, with graft failure accounting for 54% (22/41) of complications in 6% (22/351) of patients.

Conclusion:

For athletes undergoing OCA transplantation to the knee, OCD was the most commonly reported cause, with the medial femoral condyle most frequently affected. Successful RTS was reported in 72% of patients at a mean of 11.1 months, with graft failure representing the most common complication in 6%.
Lung disease classification in chest X-ray images using optimal cross stage partial bidirectional long short term memory
Authors: Babu T , Sam Kumar GV , Kartheesan L , Rajendran Surendran
Published: February 2025

Background

Lung disease is the crucial disease that affects the breathing conditions and even causes death. There are various approaches for the lung disease classification; still the inefficiency in accurate detection, computational complexity and over-fitting issues limits the performance of the model. To overcome the challenges, a deep learning model is proposed in this research. Initially, the input is acquired and is pre-processed using three various techniques like data augmentation, filtering and image re-sizing. Then, the threshold based segmentation is employed for obtaining the required region.

Objective

From the segmented image, various categories of lung diseases like COVID, lung Opacity, Pneumonia and normal are identified using the proposed Optimal Cross Stage Partial Bidirectional Long short term memory (OCBiNet).

Methods

The proposed OCBiNet is designed using Bidirectional Long short-term memory (BiNet) with Cross Stage Partial connection in its hidden state. Besides, the adjustable parameters are modified using the proposed Improved Mother Optimization (ImMO) algorithm.

Results

The ImMO algorithm is designed by integrating the Logistic Chaotic Mapping within the conventional Mother Optimization algorithm for enhancing the convergence rate in obtaining the global best solution.

Conclusions

The proposed OCBiNet is evaluated based on Accuracy, Recall, Precision, and F-Score and acquired the values of 99.11%, 98.98%, 99.18%, and 99.08% respectively.
PD-associated peritonitis: Something's fishy
Authors: Lu Shiyu , Merko Ron , Gomez David , Castillo Felipe , Perl Jeffrey
Published: February 2025

Peritoneal dialysis (PD)-associated peritonitis commonly arises from touch contamination events, however, it is important to be mindful of alternative etiologies and to take a detailed history and perform a root cause analysis for each episode. In fact, the PD effluent can be a window into intra-abdominal pathologies which may require surgical management. We present an unusual case of secondary enteric peritonitis due to foreign body bowel perforation from ingestion of a fish bone.
Women with polycystic ovary syndrome is aassociated with Longer anogenital distance, a new potential biomaker for PCOS
Authors: Chen Shumin , Cui Qiulin , Wu Yue , Fan Weiwen
Published: February 2025

Background

Fetal androgen exposure plays a pivotal role in Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) development and may result in elevated Anogenital distance (AGD). This meta-analysis aimed to investigate the clinical link between PCOS and AGD.

Methods

A literature search was performed across various databases to identify studies evaluating AGD in adults with PCOS and without, regardless of language, up to December 2024. The quality of the studies was evaluated using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS) scoring system. Random-effects models were utilized to determine mean differences (MDs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) in cases of high heterogeneity. This meta-analysis encompassed 4 studies involving a total of 837 participants.

Results

The pooled analysis found a noteworthy increase of the AGD-ac and AGD-af in PCOS patient compared with the control groups, with an overall MD of AGD-ac = 5.23, 95% CI (2.60, 7.85), P-value < 0.0001, I2 = 57%, and with an overall MD of AGD-af = 2.19, 95% CI (0.04, 4.35), P-value = 0.05, I2= 89%.

Conclusion

The meta-analysis results indicated that women diagnosed with PCOS exhibit elongated AGD. This potential association between AGD and PCOS could serve as a novel clinical marker for the diagnosis of PCOS. Fetal androgen exposure may play a role in the pathogenesis of PCOS.
3D Current collectors for Lithium metal anodes: A review on concepts of performance
Authors: Sayed Sayed Youssef , Reese Caleb , Kim Yoojin , Sachdev Anil K
Published: February 2025

Lithium metal anodes (LMAs) have the potential to boost cell-level energy densities when coupled with high-capacity cathode materials compared with the ubiquitous graphite electrodes. However, LMAs face several outstanding challenges, including dendritic Li growth, high-volume expansion, and low mechanical strength leading to poor formability for thin and large-format anodes, among others. One approach to address some of these issues is to replace the conventional 2D foils with 3D current collectors (3DCC) which possess high surface areas, open porous structures that are beneficial for increased electrolyte infiltration, faster Li ion transport, and shorter electron transport pathways, all of which can also lower the internal resistance of the cell. This article reviews the theoretical background of the potential influence of 3DCC on the Li plating process, different approaches for manufacturing 3DCCs, and current methodologies for obtaining Li anodes for high-volume manufacturing. For LMAs, the potential benefits of Li-containing 3DCCs are the accommodation of Li volume expansion due to the porous host structure, reduction of local current density due to the higher surface area of the 3D structure, and possibly improvement in the LMA mechanical integrity. Various methods for producing 3DCC structures by the “bottom-up” or the “top-down” methods are described. The synergistic effect of the optimized porous structure (e.g., surface area, pore size & density, tortuosity) of 3DCCs and the “lithiophilic” coatings, providing a wettability of Li, improves cycling performance of LMAs by favoring large-sized and dendrite-free Li deposits. Finally, Li electroplating, evaporation, molten form, and rolling methods have been evaluated for their potential in providing Li metal contained within 3DCCs, each has advantages and shortcomings. Nonetheless, rolling Li on current collectors to produce LMAs is considered the most scalable paradigm due to the room temperature operation conditions and the fact that the wettability of Li is not highly limiting their fabrication.
Lateral stability and constraint boundary of a vehicle with active rear steering
Authors: Wei Heng , Huang Yuefeng , Liu Yicai , Wang Xiangyu , Li Liang
Published: February 2025

Active rear steering (ARS) can improve the handling stability and maneuverability of intelligent vehicles, but the constraint boundary of the steering angle of the rear wheel is mostly set by using empirical values. Therefore, a nonlinear single-track model of intelligent vehicles with ARS is established. With the help of the linearization of tire mechanics at the point of operation, the handling curve is used to discuss the equilibrium points of vehicles with different axle characteristics, and the dynamic stability of the equilibrium points is studied by using bifurcation theory. On this basis, the global stability of the vehicle under different operating conditions is explored, the constraint condition of the steering angle of the rear wheel is proposed. Moreover, taking the in-phase and anti-phase control methods for the steering angle of the rear wheel as examples, the effectiveness of the constraint boundary of vehicles with different axle characteristics is verified by means of phase portraits. The analytical analysis and numerical verifications both show that the constraint boundary proposed in this paper can provide technical supports for the closed-loop control of the steering angle of the rear wheel, thereby improving the driving stability and safety of intelligent vehicles.
Enhancing breast cancer treatment: Evaluating the efficacy of hyaluronic acid-coated tamoxifen-loaded solid lipid nanoparticles on MCF7 cells
Authors: Ghayoumipour Niloufar , Ghafouri Hossein
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Tamoxifen (TMX) shows promise in treating breast cancer, but it faces challenges such as poor solubility, instability, and incomplete release when targeting tumors. Additionally, TMX therapy’s toxicity is a critical issue in breast cancer treatment. This study aimed to assess the impact of hyaluronic acid (HA)-coated TMX-loaded solid lipid nanoparticles (HA-TMX-SLNs) on MCF7 breast cancer cells.

Methods

Solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) were prepared using hot homogenization. The HA-TMX-SLNs and TMX-SLNs were characterized and evaluated through transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Cytotoxicity was assessed using the MTT assay, and Western blot analysis was utilized to identify key factors in the cell cycle and apoptosis.

Results

The nanoparticles (HA-TMX-SLNs) demonstrated approximately 55% loading efficiency after 100 h. HA-TMX-SLNs exhibited lower cytotoxicity in MCF7 cells compared to other treatments. Significant decreases in expression levels of cyclin-dependent kinase (CDK) 4, Cyclin D1, CDK2, and Bcl2 were observed after treatment with HA-TMX-SLNs, along with an increase in cleaved/procaspase-7.

Discussion

The in vitro release study showed that HA-coated SLNs consistently released the drug into the media under controlled conditions. Furthermore, HA-TMX-SLNs exhibited cytotoxic effects, increasing apoptosis and inhibiting cancer cell proliferation. These findings suggest that HA-TMX-SLNs effectively deliver TMX to breast cancer cells.
Risk factors for bleeding in patients with thrombotic antiphospholipid syndrome during antithrombotic therapy
Authors: Gaspar Pedro , Mittal Prabal , Cohen Hannah , Isenberg David A
Published: February 2025

Objectives

We aimed to explore the prevalence and risk factors for bleeding in patients with thrombotic antiphospholipid syndrome (tAPS) on antithrombotic therapy.

Methods

Single-centre retrospective analysis of patients with tAPS (Sydney criteria). Bleeding events were classified according to the International Society on Thrombosis and Haemostasis as (a) major bleeding and (b) any bleeding. Risk factors for any bleeding and for major bleeding were explored using logistic regression.

Results

We identified 197 patients (female, 71.1%; primary APS, 65.9%; presenting with arterial thrombosis, 44.2%; median disease duration, 10 years), all of whom had been exposed to antithrombotic therapy: anticoagulation, 98.5% (90.2% warfarin), and combined antithrombotic therapy, 24.9%. Eighty patients (40.6%) experienced 167 bleedings (22.8% major bleedings). Recurrent thrombosis during treatment occurred in 26.9% of patients (58.5% arterial thrombosis), and 41.9% of patients received high-intensity anticoagulation schemes (all warfarin target INR >3). Thrombocytopenia (<150 × 109 platelets/L) affected 12.7% of patients. Secondary APS was associated with major bleeding, whereas recurrent thrombosis and high-intensity anticoagulation were associated with any bleeding. Combined antithrombotic therapy and thrombocytopenia increased the risk for any bleeding and major bleeding, with thrombocytopenia associated with both outcomes (OR = 5.58, 95% CI, 1.93–16.13; OR = 2.82, 95% CI, 1.06–7.51, respectively) after multivariate analysis.

Conclusion

Patients with secondary APS, those experiencing recurrent thrombosis and exposed to combined antithrombotic treatment, are particularly at risk for bleeding. Patients with thrombocytopenia warrant the most attention as it is both an independent and the strongest risk factor for bleeding that we identified.
Examining the Relationship Between the Takeover Premium and the Environmental, Social and Governance Performances of a Target Firm
Authors: Pampurini Francesca , Quaranta Anna Grazia
Published: February 2025

In a context characterized by an increasing number of mergers and acquisitions (M&A) deals, it is important to analyze the impact of sustainability performance on deal outcomes. Actually, the evidence in the literature sometimes reaches quite different results. Thus, the study aims to investigate the possible existence of a relationship between the acquisition premium paid in an M&A transaction and a target firm’s environmental, social and governance (ESG) performance, as well as to understand which ESG component has the strongest influence on the takeover premium. 111 and 102 M&A transactions closed, respectively, in 2021 and 2022, involving listed target companies active in both the European and North American markets, were analyzed through a connection analysis and a regression approach. The results obtained, in line with those of others in the literature, show that the acquisition premium is not linked in any way to ESG performances. These findings shed light on the actual importance of ESG factors in the valuation of the takeover premium.
Scutellarin Nanoparticles Inhibit Colon Cancer by Regulating Ferroptosis
Authors: Li Yuanzhi , Yue Chaochi , Liao Yingyin , Du Weiliang
Published: February 2025

Background

In our previous research, we addressed the issues of poor stability and water solubility of scutellarin by developing scutellarin nanoparticles. Our findings indicated that these nanoparticles exhibited enhanced anti-colon cancer activity compared to scutellarin alone. However, the underlying mechanisms of scutellarin’s anti-colon cancer effects require further investigation. Scutellarin is known to suppress the proliferation of different tumor cells. In this study, we explored whether scutellarin, encapsulated in nanoparticles, could suppress the proliferation of colon cancer cells by modulating ferroptosis.

Purpose

In this study, we explored whether scutellarin, encapsulated in nanoparticles, could suppress the proliferation of colon cancer cells by modulating ferroptosis.

Methods

SW480 and HCT-116 cells were divided into (a) control group, scutellarin group, and scutellarin nanoparticles group; and (b) control group, scutellarin nanoparticles group, ferrostatin-1 group, and scutellarin nanoparticles + ferrostatin-1 group. First, we determined the half-maximal inhibitory concentration of colon cancer cells by Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) assay. Then, the ferroptosis of cells in each group was detected, and the levels of oxidative stress-related factors, superoxide dismutase (SOD) and malondialdehyde (MDA), were detected by biochemical kits. Cell death was detected by terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick-end labeling (TUNEL) assay, cell invasion was detected by Transwell assay, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels were detected by flow cytometry. Western blotting was used to detect ferroptosis-related glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4), solute carrier family 7 member 11 (SLC7A11), and ferroportin 1 (FPN1) expression levels.

Results

We found that in SW480 and HCT-116 cells, the IC50 of scutellarin nanoparticles cells was lower, cell apoptosis and invasion were more obvious, the oxidative stress level was also higher, Fe2+ content was increased, and the expression of GPX4, SLC7A11, and FPN1 was decreased. These results were changed after the addition of ferrostatin-1.

Conclusion

Scutellarin nanoparticles have a better anti-tumor effect than the same dose of scutellarin. Scutellarin nanoparticles can inhibit the proliferation, migration, and invasion of cancer cells by promoting ferroptosis, as well as cell apoptosis.
Clinical Characteristics and Outcomes of Neonates with Proven COVID-19 Infection: A Tertiary Centre Experience
Authors: Bandiya Prathik , L T Chandan Kumar , Shivanna Niranjan , Puttappanavar Ashok , Bandyopadhyay Tapas
Published: February 2025

Background

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) affects a wide range of age groups from neonates to adults. There is wide variation in the clinical presentation of the neonates.

Methods

All COVID-19-positive neonates as detected by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) in the first and second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic between June 2020 and December 2021 were included in the study. The method and timing of testing were based on national guidelines. Antenatal history, neonatal demographic and baseline characteristics, clinical course, laboratory investigations and outcome data were noted. The data was analysed by standard statistical methods.

Results

A total of 31 neonates were included in the study. The most common presenting complaints at admission were respiratory distress (80%), lethargy (64%), refusal of feeds (54%) and weak crying (45%). Nearly 80% of neonates required oxygen at admission and 30% required mechanical ventilation. Four neonates (13%) died due to COVID-19. Elevated D-dimer values, low platelet count and elevated Serum Glutamic Pyruvic Transaminase (SGPT) levels were significant predictors for in-hospital mortality among neonates with COVID-19 infection.

Conclusion

Symptomatic COVID-19-positive neonates referred to a tertiary care centre have a protracted clinical course. The presence of thrombocytopenia, elevated liver enzymes and D-dimer is associated with poor clinical outcomes in these babies.
Clinical Profile of Neonates with Cardiorespiratory Failure Needing Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation: A Retrospective Observational Study
Authors: Panigrahi Nikita , A Venkatesh Harohalli , N Karthik Nagesh , Pejaver Rajath , NS Devananda
Published: February 2025

Background

Neonatal extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) is a lifesaving therapeutic intervention for critically ill neonates with hypoxic respiratory or cardiac failure not responding to conventional management.

Objectives

To estimate the clinical profile of neonates with hypoxic respiratory failure requiring ECMO over 10 years.

Methods

This was a retrospective single-center observational study including all neonates requiring ECMO due to cardiorespiratory failure between 2012 and 2022 at neonatal and cardiac intensive care. Data were collected regarding clinical profile, duration of ECMO, complications, and survival rate.

Results

A total of 26 neonates underwent veno-arterial ECMO during the study period. The mean birth weight (BW) was 2,880 g. Post-operative congenital heart disease (CHD) ( n = 24) was the major category requiring ECMO with transposition of great vessels attributing to the most number of cases (57.6%). The mean duration of ECMO was 155.88 hours. Twenty-four neonates weighed more than 2,000 g and the survival rate was 41.6% among them, whereas the survival rate was 50% for less than 2,000 g BW neonates. The mortality was 100% and 28.5% when the duration of ECMO was more than seven days and less than seven days, respectively. The overall survival to hospital discharge was 57.7%.

Conclusions

Post-operative-cardiac cases were a major category in our center for undergoing ECMO with a higher survival rate noted when the ECMO was initiated within the first week of life and the duration of ECMO was less than seven days.
Team Learning in the Field: An Organizing Framework and Avenues for Future Research
Authors: Edmondson Amy C. , Harvey Jean-François
Published: February 2025

When Amy received the invitation to write an essay for Small Group Research, she wanted to collaborate with one of her former students, and Jean-François was thrilled when offered the opportunity. They had followed and contributed to team learning research—separately and together—and both relished the opportunity to reflect on the challenges and opportunities today’s teams (and team researchers) face. Demands for learning have never been greater, and teams have never been more complex. In this article, the authors reflect on team-learning research using a framework that emerged from their collaborative work and share thoughts and propositions for future research.
Bridging the gap: Work as a treatment goal in healthcare. An innovative approach at Radboudumc
Authors: Dona Desiree JS , Senden Theo F , Peters Marlies EWJ , Walden Chelsea
Published: February 2025

The number of people with chronic conditions among (potential) workers is expected to increase significantly in the coming years. These individuals experience problems with study, work and income. Both study and work are important to patients and contribute significantly to quality of life. For this reason, attention to study and work has been integrated into regular care across a number of patient groups at Radboud University Medical Center (Radboudumc). Here, work is considered a treatment goal as part of the individuals care plan from diagnosis onwards. Work-oriented care takes shape through the training of nurse specialists, deployment of clinical occupational physicians and guidance to patients. An initial evaluation showed that patients and healthcare professionals believed that work-oriented care added value for both parties. As such, it is important for the future that work-oriented care is structurally embedded in the organization and financing of regular care.
Pilot randomized controlled trial of extracorporeal shock wave therapy for temporomandibular joint disorders
Authors: Zhang Sheng , Jiang Yingchun , Gao Deshuai , Zhou Zheng , Zhang Qi
Published: February 2025

Background

Temporomandibular joint disorders (TMDs) are collective terms for a series of clinical diseases. However, due to the complexity of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), TMDs are still unknown as to their pathogenesis.

Objective

This pilot randomized controlled trial aimed to evaluate the efficacy of extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) in conjunction with drug therapy for myogenic TMDs.

Methods

In accordance with the CONSORT (Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials) guidelines, we conducted a randomized controlled trial involving 60 patients diagnosed with myogenic TMDs. Patients with myogenic TMDs (Class I) were randomly divided into ESWT group and Ultrashort Wave (UW) group. The UW group was given ultrashort wave combined with drug therapy, while the ESWT group was given extracorporeal shock wave combined with drug therapy. The primary outcome was pain intensity measured by the Visual Analog Scale (VAS), and secondary outcomes included maximum mouth opening (MMO) and temporomandibular joint function indices.

Results

Post-treatment assessments revealed significant improvements in VAS scores and MMO in both groups ( p < 0.05). Besides, compared with the UW group, the VAS score, the degree of MMO and Friction indexes of the TMDs patients in the ESWT group were remarkably improved after treatment ( p < 0.05).

Conclusion

For TMDs patients, extracorporeal shock wave combined with drug therapy can more quickly and effectively relieve the pain of the patient and improve the patient's dysfunction. However, due to the limitations of a small sample size and lack of prospective registration, these findings should be interpreted with caution. Future studies with larger sample sizes and proper registration are warranted.
Barriers and Facilitators of Physical Therapy Homecare Services for Patients with Stroke in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Albishi Alaa M , Howis Al-Shaima M , Alhusaini Adel A
Published: February 2025

Background

Extensive rehabilitation following a stroke is crucial. It could be provided as home health care (HHC) and is critical in aiding patients’ recovery at home and promoting independence. Home-based rehabilitation has proven effective for patients with stroke and enhances their quality of life. Further research is necessary to support recovery at home for patients with stroke in Saudi Arabia.

Objective

The study aims to explore the barriers and facilitators of physical therapy homecare services for patients with stroke in Saudi Arabia.

Methods

A cross-sectional study using a self-administered questionnaire was distributed among 150 licensed physical therapists. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to describe the participants’ characteristics, barriers, and facilitators.

Results

The physical therapists showed high confidence in stroke rehabilitation, with a mean score (16.49 + 2.37). Most of our respondents reported that patients’ refusal of service was considered the most common barrier to homecare, with a mean score of (2.78 + 0.43). The barrier scores were significantly associated with the workplace region (p = 0.04). On a positive note, (84%) identified effective communication as a facilitator, with a mean score of (2.82 + 0.43). A significant association was found among specialists working in the homecare department compared to those working at usual rehabilitation clinics (p = 0.02).

Conclusions

The primary challenges were patients refusing services and inadequate communication. Overcoming these barriers is crucial. Effective communication and involving a family member in the treatment program were critical factors for facilitating home care and ensuring a high level of service.