bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of organic solvent treatments on oCVD-deposited PEDOT thin films
Authors: Novak Travis G. , Blake Nuwayhid R. , Jugdersuren Battogtokh , Liu Xiao , DeSario Paul A. , Rolison Debra R.
Published: February 2025

Thiophene-based polymers, notably poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT) and its composite with poly(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS), are attractive targets for thermoelectric research because of their high ZT values and ease of thin-film synthesis, but traditional solution-phase routes limit both chemical control and applicable form factors. Oxidative chemical vapor deposition (oCVD) is an alternative technique capable of producing highly conductive PEDOT films without the use of PSS, yet the thermoelectric properties of PEDOT produced through oCVD have not been as thoroughly investigated. Here, we report an enhancement in thermoelectric properties of oCVD-grown PEDOT films with V2O5 inclusions through treatment in polar aprotic, high-dielectric organic solvents (DMSO, EG, and DMF). In solution-phase deposited films, the performance enhancements from post-deposition treatments in such solvents are often attributed to depletion or segregation of the insulating PSS phase, but the similar enhancements in our PSS-free films show that other effects on the physicochemical nature of the PEDOT must also be present. Our observations provide key insights into routes to optimize vapor-phase deposited PEDOT as well as the potentially misunderstood effects of organic solvents on PEDOT in general.
Dynamic Bending of a Beam
Authors: Saurin V. V.
Published: February 2025

The article discusses problems of dynamic bending for beams of semi-infinite length. To solve such problems, the article uses a method based on the implementation of the conservation laws, namely, the law of energy conservation, the law of change in momentum and the law of change in angular momentum. The results obtained are compared with the analytical solution for the problem of a semi-infinite beam motion loaded at the free end with a transverse force. The peculiarity of this solution is that the change in the stress-strain state of the rod is characterized by a wave front. It is considered that all changes in the state of the beam occur at an infinite speed. All designed solutions are characterized by the presence of a wave front in the beam. It is shown that, in contrast to the transfer of longitudinal disturbances along the length of the beam, which occur at a constant speed, bending disturbances propagate at a variable speed, and, with increasing time, this speed decreases and tends to zero at an infinitely distant point of the beam. It was discovered that the propagation velocity of the wave front during the transfer of concentrated force and concentrated moment differs from each other. In this case, the speed of transverse force transfer is almost twice as high as the speed of the wave front from the bending moment.
Enhanced gamma-ray spectrum transformation: NaI(Tl) scintillator to HPGe semiconductor via machine learning
Authors: Saeidi Zohreh , Afarideh Hossein , Ghergherehchi Mitra
Published: February 2025

Thallium-activated sodium iodide scintillation (NaI(Tl)) and high-purity germanium semiconductor (HPGe) detectors are two commonly employed gamma spectroscopy devices. NaI(Tl) detectors are preferred for their cost-effectiveness, efficiency, and ease of construction, while HPGe detectors have superior resolution but face challenges in temperature operation and they are expensive. This article investigates the application of machine learning algorithms, specifically K-Nearest Neighbors (KNN) and a Multi-Channel Output Regression based on Support Vector Regression (MCO-SVR), to enhance the performance of NaI(Tl) detectors by transforming its gamma spectrum into HPGe spectrum. The model was trained using datasets generated from a limited radioisotope library and demonstrated excellent performance across a diverse range of measured experimental test data. The evaluation included various scenarios, such as low-count spectra and background effects. The KNN model exhibited optimal performance, achieving an accuracy of 98.69% with a Manhattan distance metric. In contrast, the MCO-SVR model, employing both direct and chained approaches, exhibited varied results with different kernel types, with the polynomial kernel in the direct approach yielding the value 97.45% accuracy. Overall, the results indicate that machine learning algorithms have the potential to improve the performance of NaI(Tl) detectors and expand their applications in various fields of nuclear security.

Graphical Abstract
Figure S4 from Stanniocalcin 1 in Patients with Refractory Colorectal Cancer Treated with Regorafenib: A Post Hoc Biomarker Analysis of the TEXCAN and CORRECT Trials
Authors: Vienot Angélique , Vernerey Dewi , Bouard Adeline , Klajer Elodie , Kim Stefano , Tournigand Christophe , Louvet Christophe , André Thierry , Rousseau Benoît , Wespiser Mylène , Spehner Laurie , Wang Ying A. , Weispfenning Anke , Dochy Emmanuelle , Borg Christophe
Published: February 2025

Supplementary Figure 4
Molorchus Got Wealthy? A Note on Martial Epigrams 4.64
Authors: Sutton David
Published: February 2025

This paper re-evaluates the meaning and implication of a puzzling phrase in Martial Epigrams 4.64 in which the poet’s friend Julius Martialis is compared to a wealthy Molorchus. The phrase has attracted comment because that figure is paradigmatically associated with his poverty, especially by Martial’s contemporary Statius, and the reference to wealth is most commonly said to stem from a desire not to offend Martialis by associating him with poverty. Responding to a trend in scholarship that foregrounds intratextual connections in epigram, this paper argues instead that Martial’s Molorchus belongs to a sequence of poems in book four on the proper and improper use of wealth and that his newfound wealth is best explained as a counterpart to socially abusive figures like the notorious parvenu Zoilus whose presence recurs in Martial’s Epigrams.
Trophic ecology of the endangered lizard Glaucomastix abaetensis in the restinga formations of the northern coast of Bahia, Brazil
Authors: Leite André Kaufer , Fazolato Cecil Pergentino , de Oliveira Jaqueline Bianque , Tinôco Moacir Santos , da Silva Melo Tércio , de Moura Geraldo Jorge Barbosa
Published: February 2025

The diet of lizards could be influenced by several factors, whether extrinsic, such as climatic variables and habitat structure that directly influence the availability of prey, and/or intrinsic, such as body size, sex, and foraging behaviour. In the present study, we provide new data on the trophic ecology of Glaucomastix abaetensis, a lizard threatened and endemic to the restingas of the northern coast of Bahia, northeastern Brazil. The type (lowest taxonomic level possible, commonly Order), number, volume and importance of prey were verified, considering seasonal, morphological, sexual variations, and differences between populations over 12 months, in two locations in restinga environments: Parque das Dunas and Massarandupió, in the municipalities of Salvador and Esplanada. Diet data were obtained from the analysis of the stomach content of 157 collected individuals, 80 males and 77 females. Results showed that G. abaetensis has a generalist behaviour, with a preference for large prey, such as Orthoptera, Araneae and Blattaria, which has been associated with energy balance. A similar diet composition was recorded between males and females, populations and seasons, demonstrating a conservative dietary pattern for the species. Morphological variables were not associated with ingested prey volumes, rather a feeding preference for specific prey. Thus, this new perspective on the diet composition, feeding and foraging strategy of G. abaetensis is fundamental to understanding the ecological dynamics of the species, also serving as a subsidy for the development of action plans for the conservation of this species.
Bridging the Gap between Compliance and Translation
Authors: Brunet-Bélanger Andréanne
Published: February 2025

The article discusses the impact of state false compliance on the translation of international norms. Using the implementation of the free, prior, and informed consent (fpic) norm in Paraguay as an example, it aims to demonstrate how false compliance hinders the meaningful translation of norms into practical mechanisms, policies, and laws, ultimately silencing indigenous voices.

The paper focuses on Paraguay as a case study of a “false-ratifier,” a state that appears to comply with international treaties but does not genuinely adhere to their objectives. While Paraguay ratified relevant conventions and adopted protocols related to fpic, its actual commitment to this norm remains limited. The state’s interpretation and implementation of fpic are influenced by a production-oriented perspective, leading to consultations that lack genuine consent. In Paraguay’s case, the state’s fpic implementation remains superficial, negatively impacting the ability of indigenous peoples to participate effectively.

The main argument presented is that compliance extends beyond ratification; it involves the translation of international obligations into national laws and policies. False compliance can result in insufficient translation, enabling states to evade their responsibilities while maintaining the appearance of compliance. This approach can impede non-state actors from holding the state accountable, as demonstrated in the Paraguayan case.
Socio-Cultural and Political Features and Differences in the Life of Kurdish Communities and Social Groups in Kazakhstan, Turkey, and Syria
Authors: Kubashev Alibek
Published: February 2025

The purpose of the study is to investigate the political and socio-cultural features of the life of Kurdish communities in Turkey, Syria, and Kazakhstan. Such methods as historical-genetic, systemic, predictive, structural-functional and comparative are used.The results of the study formulate the characteristic features of the life of the Kazakh Kurdish community at the present stage of historical development, assess the situation of the Kurdish population in Turkey, and analyse the attempts of the authorities to integrate them into Turkish society, determine the characteristics of the life of Kurds in Syria during the civil war, and explore the prospects for the Kurds to gain autonomy within any of the states or create an independent Kurdistan. This work may be useful for civil servants of the countries under study who implement policies in the field of strengthening peace, international and regional security, and maintaining interethnic stability in a multinational state.
The Socio-Cultural Perceptions of the Local Communities and Handcraft Occupation in Amhara Regional State, Ethiopia
Authors: Mikaelu Tadesse Abeje , Ali Mohammed Seid
Published: February 2025

This paper explores the multifaceted ways local communities in Amhara Regional State, Ethiopia perceive the occupation of handicrafts. How the local community (in a socio-cultural context) views the occupation of handcraft is the central research question of this paper. Qualitative research approaches are utilized to collect data. Specifically, observation and interviews with handicraft workers, religious leaders, and non-handicraft workers are used to collect feasible facts for this paper. The study reveals intricate views shaped by socio-cultural contexts, traditions, and lived experiences about handicraft occupation. The local community prevails positive links between handicraft materials and cultural heritage and artistic expression, whereas negative stereotypes and mythical beliefs and stories impact social standing and career choices in handicraft occupation. The paper argues for a nuanced understanding of community perceptions of how handicraft occupation affects the lives of handicraft workers and the opportunities of handicraft occupation.
Alphabetic Excavations
Authors: Norris Matthew
Published: February 2025

Around the turn of the 17th century, the Swedish antiquary and mystic Johannes Bureus (1568–1652) claimed to have discovered the primordial theology and science of his Scandinavian ancestors encoded in their system of writing, the runic alphabet, inspired in large part by earlier Christian interpretations of the Kabbalah. In the leadup to the Swedish intervention in the Thirty Years’ War, he viewed the discovery as the ecumenical solution to the confessional divisions that were rending Europe asunder. This article explores how Bureus’s simultaneously typical and idiosyncratic engagement with the Kabbalah originated, what functions it served in his broader antiquarian program, and how it evolved to adapt to the shifting contours of Protestant scholarship in the first half of the 17th century.
The Concealed Scroll
Authors: Necker Gerold
Published: February 2025

The pseudepigraphic Book of Sacred Magic is known to be one of the occult bestsellers of the 19th century. Allegedly written in the year 1348 by the Jew Abraham of Worms, it became popular in numerous versions in many languages from the 17th century. This article presents a single Hebrew manuscript that will be proven to be a possible source of the second part of the book, which consists of more than 150 recipes for all circumstances. By comparing the Hebrew text to the recently published edition of the German translation, which was previously thought to be the original text of this work, research to solve the riddle of its authorship and its date of composition will be given a new basis.
Abraham Abulafia and the Emergence of Christian Kabbalah
Authors: Idel Moshe
Published: February 2025

The present study asserts the special importance of Italian Kabbalah in the emergence of Christian Kabbalah. With a more open approach than others, relating to his definition of Judaism as being in recognition of the divine name, Abraham Abulafia’s prophetic Kabbalah was quite different both from other forms of Kabbalah and from traditional understandings of Judaism, and thus opened the way for an appropriation of his ideas through the Sicilian and Latin translations of his works.
Paolo Ricci on the Notion of Material Intellect between Averroism and Kabbalah
Authors: Mantovani Margherita
Published: February 2025

This article examines Paolo Ricci’s joint employment of Averroistic and kabbalistic sources. Particular attention is paid to the interpretation that Ricci inserts in his writings of the agent and material intellects and to the circulation of Siger of Brabant’s doctrines in the academic context of Renaissance Pavia. It argues that Ricci’s In Apostolorum simbolum dialogus reveals the role of Kabbalah in the author’s involvement with contemporaneous Renaissance debates on the soul. The reference to Ricci’s name before his conversion to Christianity included in the first edition of this treatise can relate to the information that Caspar Amman provides in a note on his personal copy of Ricci’s treatise.
The Problem of Defining Useful False Beliefs
Authors: Shope Robert K.
Published: February 2025

Those who recognize the type of knowledge acquisition that involves what Peter D. Klein calls ‘a useful false belief’ face the problem of defining appropriate boundaries for such a belief. Klein’s own proposal encounters counterexamples and should be replaced by a definition inspired by a position that may be called ‘circumstantialism,’ which emphasizes certain circumstances belonging to the knower’s situation. The revised definition also offers a solution to ‘The False Lemma Problem’ of distinguishing cases involving useful false beliefs from classic Gettier-type cases involving a false lemma in the reasoning underlying the inferential process.
Indigenization of the Social Sciences in Iran
Authors: Homayounvash Mohammad
Published: February 2025

Shortly after the Islamic Revolution of 1979, the Cultural Revolution Headquarters was established as a key institution to shape ad oversee cultural and educational policies in the country and embed Islamic values throughout society. A cornerstone of this state-driven institutional campaign was the vigorous pursuit of the indigenization (Boomi-sazi) and Islamization of the social sciences aimed at cultivating and advancing theories, methodologies, and research agendas that were rooted in Iran’s rich Islamic heritage, historical context, and societal values. Drawing on primary materials in Persian, predominantly sourced from key decision-makers and strategists involved in the Islamization project, this paper investigates the complex historical, cultural, religious, and geopolitical contexts that have shaped the evolving relationship between the Islamic Republic and Iranian academia since 1979. It provides a critical analysis of the factors contributing to the limited success of efforts to indigenize and Islamize social sciences in Iran. The study focuses on several key areas: the imposition of constraints on specific academic research; the intricate dynamics between the Hawza (Shi’a Islamic seminary) and the university system; the pervasive influence of “Westoxication” (Gharb-zadegi) and the deep-rooted pro-Western institutional inertia within Iran’s academic institutions; and the securitization of social sciences, whereby certain disciplines, topics, or research agendas are framed within a national security context, reflecting Iran’s ideological and geopolitical confrontations with the West.
The Tragedy of Humanities and Social Sciences in Iran
Authors: Ahmadi Hamid
Published: February 2025

Similar to David Ricci’s description of “tragedy” in analyzing the status of political science in the American universities of the mid-1980s, Iranian humanities and social sciences have faced a tragedy in since the 1979 Islamic Revolution. This tragedy stems from the continuous policy of Islamization in its two waves: first the Islamization of the universities in 1980s and second the Islamization of humanities and social sciences in late 2000s. This has given rise to contending school of thought on the policy of Islamization and knowledge production in humanities and social sciences. The ideological religious school of thought has failed in its policy of Islamization, having a more narrow nase and less popularity in the Iranian humanities and social sciences milieu. Conversely, the historical sociology school, which emphasizes on the idea of the University of Iran, is getting more attention in this regard.
Javad Tabatabai and Academic Indigenization in Contemporary Iran
Authors: Bostani Mostafa , Bostani Ahmad
Published: February 2025

This paper examines the contemporary Iranian intellectual pursuit of indigenizing social sciences and humanities through the scholarship of Javad Tabatabai (1945–2023). As an influential figure in recent Iranian debates on nationhood and identity, Tabatabai’s intellectual journey provides valuable insights into the various approaches to academic indigenization in Iran. In his early career, Tabatabai critically engaged with the pre-1979 Revolution pursuit of “authenticity” by nativist thinkers such as Ehsan Naraqi, as well as post-Revolutionary Islamization and indigenization efforts to reconfigure knowledge systems. He explored the “conditions of impossibility” for establishing modern social sciences within Islamic civilization, ultimately rejecting the feasibility of developing indigenous social sciences in Iran. However, Tabatabai’s later scholarship marked a significant departure. He began advocating for the creation of a distinctly “national” framework for social sciences and humanities, rooted in a “theory of Iran” aimed at addressing perceived exceptional complexities of Iranian culture and civilization through history. By situating Tabatabai’s shift in perspective within the broader “nationalist turn” in his later work, this paper highlights the interplay between national identity and knowledge production in his final scholarship, interpreting it as another chapter in the Iranian intellectual pursuit of indigenous social sciences and humanities.
Dropephylloidea, a remarkable new genus from south Europe and the Middle East (Coleoptera: Staphylinidae: Omaliinae: Omaliini)
Authors: SHAVRIN ALEXEY V.
Published: February 2025

A new omaliine genus, Dropephylloidea gen. n. is described. Morphologically, the new genus is related to Dropephylla Mulsant & Rey, 1880 and Phyllodrepa Thomson, 1859, but differs from them by the proportions of maxillary palpomeres and gonocoxites of the female genital segment, the shape of the modified and extremely elongate metatrochanter of the male, and the unusual external and internal structure of the aedeagus. The new genus includes one species, D. curticollis (Eppelsheim, 1889) comb. n. (from Dropephylla), distributed in southern Europe (Albania, Croatia and Italy) and the Middle East. The species is redescribed and illustrated, and a distributional map is provided. A lectotype for Homalium (Phyllodrepa) curticolle Eppelsheim, 1889 is designated. The main morphological features of the new genus and its taxonomic relationship with other related genera of Omaliini MacLeay, 1825 are briefly discussed. Dropephylloidea curticollis is recorded from Albania, Croatia, Israel and Italy for the first time. In addition, an erratum is provided: Dropephylla ivani nom. n. is proposed as a replacement name for D. loebli Shavrin, 2024: 592, a junior primary homonym of D. loebli Thayer, 2003: 323.
Notes on the genus Anthaxia Eschscholtz, 1829 (Coleoptera: Buprestidae: Anthaxiini) from Myanmar with description of a new species and a new record for Cambodia
Authors: PLACHETKA MIKULÁŠ
Published: February 2025

A new species of genus Anthaxia (Haplanthaxia) Reitter, 1911 from Myanmar is described and illustrated here: Anthaxia (Haplanthaxia) haraldi sp. nov. New records of Anthaxia Escholtz, 1829 for Myanmar and Cambodia are presented.
China’s Economic Diplomacy in Saudi Arabia and Qatar: An Effect on the Country’s Economic Growth
Authors: Sultan Hend Elmahly Mahmoud , Salem Mohamed Mostafa Sayed , El-Rahman Eram Mohammed Abd
Published: February 2025

This article demonstrates how theoretical and empirical integration to conducting a research study incorporating both theory and empirical works into an integrated interpretative analysis of China’s economic diplomacy towards Saudi Arabia and Qatar. While numerous books and articles have discussed the question of China’s relations with the Middle East more broadly, dominant scholarship focusing on China’s economic diplomacy approach in the Middle East misses theoretical and empirical integration-informed perspectives. By examining recent publications on China’s increasing role in the Middle East and showing how this theoretical and empirical integration can add significantly to their interpretations, the article highlights how the theoretical and empirical works of researchers and their subjects are a pressing concern in studies of China’s relations with Saudi Arabia and Qatar. Overall, the article provides specific suggestions for integrating empirical work within theoretical work in the field, and it demonstrates how this integration is significant in assessing the tangible effects of China’s economic diplomacy towards Saudi Arabia and Qatar on the country’s economic growth.
Lowering B-type natriuretic peptide levels and increasing cardiac function: the role of levosimendan in the treatment of heart failure
Authors: Meng Jianfeng , Zuo Ye
Published: February 2025

Objective

In this study, we examined whether levosimendan could lower B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) and improve cardiac function in patients with heart failure who have diuretic resistance and low ejection fraction.

Methods

We conducted a cohort study among 120 participants from September 2022 to August 2023. We investigated the efficacy of treatment with levosimendan in patients with HF who exhibited diuretic resistance and had a low ejection fraction. All patients received recombinant human neuronal natriuretic peptide (rhBNP) and the treatment group additionally received levosimendan. In addition to the primary endpoints, safety measures were assessed, encompassing the monitoring of blood pressure, heart rate, and serum creatinine levels.

Results

Patients in the treatment and control groups were similar in age, sickness duration, weight, and sex ratio. Medication use, New York Heart Association classification, ejection fraction percentage, and other factors were evenly distributed. The treatment group showed increased urine volume and weight loss. Both groups had similar post-treatment systolic blood pressure, heart rate, and serum creatinine levels, indicating good safety.

Conclusion

Levosimendan in combination with rhBNP may improve diuretic resistance in patients with HF and low ejection fraction. Further multicenter trials are needed to confirm our findings.
Heat stroke with sepsis: A case report and review of the literature
Authors: Wei Suyu , Sun Liang
Published: February 2025

Heat stroke, triggered by excessive heat exposure or intense physical activity, is a medical condition characterized by a rapid rise in core body temperature, central nervous system dysfunction and multiorgan failure. A patient presented with heat stroke and was unconscious. During treatment, we identified a range of complications, including shifted flora, coagulation abnormalities, liver damage and renal failure—indicating multiorgan dysfunction. We administered antibiotic therapy, blood purification and other comprehensive treatments, leading to the patient’s recovery and subsequent discharge. For cases of heat stroke in an intensive care setting, clinicians must recognize the condition early and act swiftly to reduce body temperature. Additionally, the early use of antibiotics can help prevent microbial imbalance. For eligible patients, hemodialysis should be initiated promptly to manage renal complications effectively.
An overview of ELISA: a review and update on best laboratory practices for quantifying peptides and proteins in biological fluids
Authors: Aydin Suleyman , Emre Elif , Ugur Kader , Aydin Mustafa Ata , Sahin İbrahim , Cinar Vedat , Akbulut Taner
Published: February 2025

The enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) detects antigen-antibody interactions by using enzyme-labelled conjugates and enzyme substrates that generate colour changes. This review aims to provide an overview of ELISA, its various types, and its applications in detecting metabolites in biological fluids. The article discusses the history of the assay, its underlying principles and procedures, common ELISA protocols, and the most accurate and reliable techniques for measuring peptide molecules in biological fluids. Additionally, we emphasize best laboratory practices to achieve consistent, high-quality results and outline the essential materials for setting up an ELISA laboratory, drawing from our over 30 years of experience in the field.
The golden Syrian hamster (Mesocricetus auratus) as a model to decipher relevant pathogenic aspects of sheep-associated malignant catarrhal fever
Authors: Fabian Rosalie , Bentley Eleanor G. , Kirby Adam , Sharma Parul , Stewart James P. , Kipar Anja
Published: February 2025

Malignant catarrhal fever (MCF) is an often fatal, sporadic gammaherpesvirus-induced disease of ruminants with global relevance. Ovine gammaherpesvirus-2 (OvHV-2), with sheep as its reservoir host, is a major cause of MCF in susceptible species. Despite extensive research on the molecular aspects of the disease, its pathogenesis is not yet fully understood. The present study re-established the Syrian golden hamster ( Mesocricetus auratus) as an amenable animal model of MCF and applied complementary in situ approaches to confirm recent findings in natural disease that could shed new light on pathogenic aspects of MCF. These showed that systemic OvHV-2 infection is associated with T-cell and macrophage-dominated mononuclear infiltrates and vasculitis in various organs. Both T-cells and monocytes/macrophages harbor the virus, and infected leukocytes are abundant in the infiltrates. The results also indicate that OvHV-2 has a broader target cell spectrum, including vascular endothelial cells and selected squamous epithelia. The former supports the interpretation that the inflammatory processes develop due to circulating, activated, infected T-cells and monocytes that home to tissues and emigrate from vessels prone to leukocyte emigration, possibly with direct interaction between virus-infected leukocytes and endothelial cells. The latter supports the hypothesis of graft versus host disease scenario, without viral cytopathic effect on epithelial cells but infiltration of the mucosa by infected T-cells and macrophages. The disease processes are accompanied by evidence of expansion of the T-cell compartments and the monocyte/macrophage pool in lymphatic tissues and bone marrow.
‘Let your name be …’: The change of the names of Israel’s ancestors in light of the Atra-ḫasīs myth
Authors: Wasserman Nathan , Bloch Yigal
Published: February 2025

The divine act of changing the names of Abraham, Sarah, and Jacob in the book of Genesis is paralleled by hitherto unnoticed similar cases of renaming specific protagonists in the Babylonian epic of Atra-ḫasīs: the goddess Mami/Bēlet-ilī and the Flood hero Ziusudra/Ūta-napištim. A careful comparison of these instances of name changing reveals striking thematic parallels and important ideological differences.
A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials of systemic antibiotics for diabetes-related foot infections
Authors: Lee Mei-Chuan , Hua Yi-Ming , Toh Han Siong , Su Hui-Chen , Chen Po-Jung
Published: February 2025

Objective

Diabetes-related foot infections (DFIs) are prevalent in patients with diabetes mellitus, often leading to severe complications, including amputations. This study aims to assess the efficacy and safety of systemic antibiotics in DFI treatment.

Research Design and Methods

A systematic review was conducted by searching PubMed, Cochrane databases, and Embase for randomized controlled trials up to August 4, 2024, evaluating the clinical efficacy of systemic antibiotics for DFIs. Primary outcomes were clinical efficacy and safety, comparing different antibiotic classes to penicillins. Subgroup analysis was based on DFI severity.

Results

Of 24 studies, 16 were included in the meta-analysis. Linezolid showed a potential efficacy advantage over penicillins for DFIs but had more adverse effects. Clinical efficacy and safety were comparable across carbapenems and quinolones versus penicillins. Ertapenem showed no significant difference from piperacillin/tazobactam in treating moderate or severe DFIs.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while linezolid may offer a potential efficacy advantage over penicillins in treating DFIs, it is associated with a higher risk of drug-related adverse effects. Penicillins demonstrate comparable clinical efficacy and safety to carbapenems and fluoroquinolones for DFI management. For moderate to severe DFIs, piperacillin/tazobactam and ertapenem are viable options, though treatment should be guided by local antimicrobial resistance patterns.
Talking While Walking After Concussion: Acute Effects of Concussion on Speech Pauses and Gait Speed
Authors: Yang Shu , Johnson Paula K. , Hansen Colby R. , Wilde Elisabeth A. , Cortez Melissa M. , Dibble Leland E. , Fino Peter C. , Raffegeau Tiphanie E.
Published: February 2025

Background

Deficits in dual-tasks (DT) are frequently observed post-concussion (ie, mild Traumatic Brain Injury). However, traditional DT may not be relevant to daily life. Walking while talking elicits DT costs in healthy adults and is part of daily life.

Objective

We investigated the effect of concussion on walking with extemporaneous speech and explored relationships between DT and acute symptoms.

Methods

Participants with recent concussion (<14 days post-injury) and controls completed 3 tasks: single-task gait without speaking (STG), single-task speaking without walking (STS), and walking while speaking (DT). Silent pauses in speech audio reflected cognitive performance, and gait was quantified using inertial sensors. We used linear mixed models to compare groups and conditions and explored associations with self-reported symptoms.

Results

Both concussion (n = 19) and control (n = 18) groups exhibited longer speech pauses ( P < .001), slower walking speeds ( P < .001), and slower cadence ( P < .001) during the DT compared to ST conditions. There were no group differences or interactions for speech pauses ( P > .424). The concussion group slowed down more during DT than the control group (group × task P = .032). Vestibular symptoms strongly associated with ST speech pause duration (ρ = .72), ST gait speed (ρ = −.75), and DT gait speed (ρ = −.78).

Conclusions

Extemporaneous speech is well-practiced but challenging to complete while walking post-concussion. Strong associations between DT outcomes and vestibular-related symptoms suggest DT deficits vary with post-concussion symptomology. DT deficits may be deleterious to daily tasks post-concussion.
Complications after ultrasound-guided carpal tunnel release: a case series
Authors: Köhl Magdalena , Seeher Ulrike , Kaiser Peter , Schmidle Gernot , Zimmermann Robert , Sigl Stephan
Published: February 2025

In a retrospective analysis, data from patients who underwent open revision after ultrasound-guided release between February 2021 and December 2023 were reviewed. These patients experienced persistent, worsened or new symptoms. Clinical symptoms, complications and surgical techniques were assessed. Of 14 patients undergoing revision, nine had an incomplete release of the flexor retinaculum. Five patients had major complications like nerve or vessel lesions. Our findings indicate that although ultrasound-guided release is effective, it should only be done by physicians experienced in nerve sonography and hand surgery.

Level of evidence: IV
Deepfakes as a Democratic Threat: Experimental Evidence Shows Noxious Effects That Are Reducible Through Journalistic Fact Checks
Authors: Dan Viorela
Published: February 2025

Concerns have been raised over AI-generated deepfakes and their impact on democracy. Unlike earlier forms of disinformation relying on text or traditional video-editing techniques (cheapfakes), deepfakes employ artificial intelligence, provoking speculations that they may be even more persuasive and harder to debunk. Using an experiment with a multiple-message design ( N = 2,085), we found that fake videos suggesting a sex, corruption, or prejudice scandal—but not text-only fakes—elicited substantial reputational damage for an innocent politician, regardless of whether the underlying technique was “cheap” or “deep.” This was visible in altered attitudes, emotions, and voting intentions. However, exposure to a journalistic fact-check substantially reduced and even eliminated the detrimental effects. These findings have important implications for our theoretical understanding related to the effects of and mitigation strategies for deepfakes. While clearly highlighting the significant persuasive potential of deepfakes (and visual disinformation in general), the present study paints a more nuanced picture than was previously possible.
Psychedelics and chronic pain: self-reported outcomes on changed substance use patterns and health following naturalistic psychedelic use
Authors: Glynos Nicolas G , Baker Anne , Aday Jacob S , Kruger Daniel , Boehnke Kevin F , Lake Stephanie , Lucas Philippe
Published: February 2025

Psychedelic substances have shown preliminary efficacy for several neuropsychiatric disorders and are currently being investigated for chronic pain conditions. However, few studies have investigated outcomes of naturalistic psychedelic use among individuals with chronic pain, and none have assessed psychedelic-related changes in substance use patterns in this population. In a cross-sectional survey of adults who reported using psychedelics to self-treat a chronic pain condition ( n = 466; 46.1% women), we investigated changed substance use patterns and self-reported outcomes on physical and mental health following use of a psychedelic. Most (86.3%; n = 391/453) indicated that they ceased or decreased use of one or more non-psychedelic substances “as a result of” psychedelic use, and 21.2% ( n = 83/391) indicated that the decrease in use persisted for more than 26 weeks after psychedelic use. Alcohol (71.1%; n = 226/318) and prescription opioids (64.1%; n = 100/156) had the highest proportions for ceased/decreased use. Illicit opioids (27.8%; n = 22/79) and cannabis (21.5%; n = 78/362) had the highest proportions for increased/initiated use. In multivariate regression modeling, having a motivation to reduce one’s substance use was positively associated with ceasing/decreasing substance use ( p < .001). Perceptions of health outcomes following psychedelic use were broadly positive, and psilocybin was reported to be the most effective substance for both physical and mental health symptoms. Although limited by a cross-sectional study design, findings from this large sample merit future investigation into the benefits and risks of naturalistic psychedelic use among individuals with chronic pain.
A Qualitative Investigation of WhatsApp Interaction for English Language Grammar Learning
Authors: Annamalai Nagaletchimee , Alsalhi Najah Rajeh , Eltahir Mohd Elmagzoub , Zakarneh Bilal Mohammed , Yunus Kamariah , Zyoud Samer H.
Published: February 2025

This qualitative case study aimed to examine pre-service teachers’ and teacher educators’ interactions during their English grammar lessons via the WhatsApp platform. The Community of Inquiry (CoI) model was employed to categorize the WhatsApp interactions based on social, cognitive and teacher presences. Participants wrote their reflections for an in-depth understanding of the phenomenon that is being investigated. The cognitive, social and teaching presences were evident during their interactions on the WhatsApp platform. Among them, cognitive presence was identified to be the most common interaction. Participants used the WhatsApp platform to explore and integrate ideas related to English grammar. The platform also allowed them to construct sentences based on the rules and knowledge gained during their interactions. The teacher acted as a facilitator assisting learners rather than passively teaching learners the “correct” way to learn the English language by creating opportunities for learners to notice grammatical rules. For social presence (SP), the use of emoticons was dominant. The reflective writing demonstrated positive learning experiences. The study concluded that WhatsApp has the potential to be a worthwhile platform for English grammar learning if instructors are able to optimize the features offered in an application for effective interactions and collaborative dialogues.
South Asian Climate Transnationalism: Beyond Diasporic Humanitarianism
Authors: Booth Deborah , Taylor Steve , Irudayarajan Rohit , Peck Sarah , Rajan S. Irudaya
Published: February 2025

South Asia is currently on the front line of the global climate emergency, with the region experiencing increasing, devastating crises resulting from climate change and ‘climate coloniality’ (Sultana, 2022). This article, drawing upon original qualitative research, explores the relationship between the South Asian diaspora and climate action within South Asia. We introduce and chart the nature and dynamics of contemporary South Asian climate transnationalism and suggest that this significant contemporary phenomenon has been hitherto unrecognised within South Asian migration, diaspora and transnational studies. It is further argued that concepts utilised within the existing literature on the diaspora-climate action nexus, such as ‘diaspora humanitarianism’ and ‘intensive transnationalism’, do not adequately capture the nature, significance, diversity, scale and ever-presence of contemporary South Asian transnational diasporic climate action in the face of the unending plethora of crises precipitated by climate change. We also contend that while South Asian religions do play a significant role in motivating some of the ever-present diasporic climate action studied, much of this activity is also guided by environmental rationalities, and articulations of climate coloniality and climate justice, which both cut across and exist independently of South Asian religious beliefs and attachments.
Critical Perspectives on Digital Competency and Lazy Employment Motivation: Test and Analysis of a Moderated Mediation Model
Authors: Chuan Wan , Lai PC
Published: February 2025

Although previous studies have revealed the positive effects of digital competency on employment-related motivation, there is a lack of in-depth exploration of the mechanisms influencing the motivation for lazy employment. The purpose of this study was not only to examine the mediating role of career self-efficacy in the relationship between digital competency and irrational slow-employment psychological traits and behaviours (employment motivation laziness) but also to test the moderating role of gender in the relationship between the two. Data were collected from a higher vocational institution in Guangdong Province, China. The results indicated that digital competency directly and indirectly positively affected lazy employment motivation. However, gender did not play a moderating effect. To address this positive relationship, we need to adopt a critical perspective on the positive and negative effects of digital competency and guide male and female college students to develop positive and healthy rational employment attitudes in terms of focusing on the dark side of digitisation, critical thinking, information overload and overconfidence, so as to reduce the impact of negative and irrational motivation on employment quality.
Characterizing miR-20a-3p Expression in the Progression of Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Thomas Priya , Ramani Pratibha , Ramasubramanian Abilasha , Sekar Durairaj
Published: February 2025

Aim:

This study aims to elucidate the role of miR-20a-3p in the inhibition of tumor suppressor genes, thereby enhancing the development and advancement of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) by fostering the proliferation and viability of tumor cells. Additionally, the study seeks to evaluate the potential of miR-20a-3p as a prognostic biomarker for more effective treatment strategies in OSCC patients.

Materials and Methods:

This observational, analytical study utilized a convenience sampling method, involving a total of 63 OSCC biopsy samples and corresponding nontumor oral tissues from the same patients. The expression levels of miR-20a-3p were quantified using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. Clinical information, including tumor stage, and grade was obtained. Statistical analysis included unpaired Student’s t tests to compare miR-20a-3p expression levels between normal and OSCC samples, and one-way ANOVA to compare expression across different grades and stages of the tumor, using SPSS version 19.

Results:

Our findings demonstrate that miR-20a-3p expression was significantly downregulated in OSCC samples compared to healthy controls ( p < .001). Additionally, we observed a correlation between miR-20a-3p downregulation and OSCC histological grade and staging. miR-20a-3p expression levels were significantly different across different grades of OSCC, particularly between well-differentiated squamous cell carcinoma (WDSCC) and poorly differentiated squamous cell carcinoma (PDSCC) ( p < .006) and moderately differentiated squamous cell carcinoma and PDSCC ( p < .008). There was a significant difference in miR-20a-3p expression between normal tissues and Stage II ( p < .006) and Stage IV ( p < .001) OSCC.

Conclusion:

The study confirms that miR-20a-3p acts as a tumor suppressor in OSCC and holds potential as a biomarker for prognosis and personalized treatment strategies. miR-20a-3p expression is significantly reduced in OSCC tissues compared to normal tissues, and its levels vary with tumor grade and stage. These findings underscore the importance of further research into miRNAs as therapeutic targets.
Delamination between wood and externally bonded FRP due to swelling and shrinkage
Authors: Feng Jing-Wei , Yang Chuang , Li Yi-fan , Zhang Zhongwen
Published: February 2025

Timber members are often strengthened with bonded FRP sheets for a better mechanical performance. For these members, eigenstress can develop in their interfaces due to swelling and shrinkage of the member, which can cause cracks and delamination. Sophisticated evaluation of these phenomenon requires understanding of the moisture gradient in the composite member as well as fracture energy of these interface layers. However, these data are currently insufficient in literature. This paper investigates delamination between wood and FRP focusing on influences of the swelling and shrinkage of the wood. Tests were conducted regarding fracture energy of the adhesive layer joining the wood and the FRP as well as moisture transfer process crossing the adhesive layers. Using the derived experimental data, numerical parametric studies were performed. The results show that significant damages could be introduced to bonding of the FRP sheets due to eigenstress introduced by hygroscopic swelling and shrinkage of the member which can be significantly affected by layout of the FRP sheet.
Precision education – a call to action to transform medical education
Authors: Coates Wendy C.
Published: February 2025

Background

Institutions, departments, and individuals are increasingly facing challenges to determine how to enable their learners to acquire and curate rapidly changing knowledge and to foster the creation of lifelong learners in this information-rich digital era.

Methods

Much like the Precision Medicine initiative of 2015, in which diagnostic, treatment, and preventive care target individual patients based on their genetic and environmental profiles, educators can use the same principles to create a model of “Precision Education.”

Results

In this model, future facing individualizable educational infrastructure can consider innate qualities, learning style, behavior, environment, prior experience, expertise, and assessments.

Conclusion

Educators can utilize Artificial Intelligence, the Master Adaptive Learner model, and key components of Competency Based Medical Education to transform the evolution of Health Professions Education to meet the individual and systemic needs of tomorrow’s learners, educators, and institutions to improve educational and clinical outcomes.