bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Strategic Human Resource Management Bundles and Job Performance in the Nonprofit Sector: A Multilevel Longitudinal Study
Authors: Abukhalifa Anas Mahmoud Salem , Kamil Nurul Liyana Mohd , Yong Chen Chen
Published: January 2025

Leaning on social exchange theory and job demand Resource theory, this study examines the impact of ability, motivation, and opportunity strategic human resource management bundles on job performance via the mediating mechanism of work engagement. Our data were gathered in two waves from 270 paid employees employed by 30 nonprofit organizations in Palestine and were analyzed using hierarchical linear modeling. The findings reveal that ability, motivation, and opportunity for strategic human resource management bundles have a significant positive impact on work engagement and job performance. Among these bundles, the opportunity‐enhancing bundle emerged as the strongest predictor of work engagement and job performance. Work engagement was found to partially mediate the relationship between strategic human resource management and performance. The novelty of this study lies in its examination of these relationships using a multilevel longitudinal methodology in the understudied contexts of the nonprofit sector and an Eastern setting, thereby addressing several theoretical, methodological, and empirical gaps within the literature on strategic HRM, the non‐profit sector, and positive psychology.
Investigation of Setpoint Tracking Control Schemes for Digital Twin of Industrial Finned Heater
Authors: Singh Ajith B. , Jaisiva S. , Anie Selva Jothi A. , Narendiran S.
Published: January 2025

Band dryers commonly used in industries consist of forced draft fans and heating elements. The heating coils used in these dryers are susceptible to voltage fluctuations, which might lead to poor performance of heating elements and high‐power consumption for operation. This manuscript proposes a novel approach for a setpoint tracking control scheme for the digital twin of the industrial finned heater. The proposed technique is a Butterfly Optimization Algorithm (BOA) for optimizing the Setpoint Tracking Proportional Integral Derivative (STPID) controller. The primary goal of the proposed method is to minimize error and provide a better alternative to find their system transfer function. The BOA technique is used to maximize the parameters of the STPID controller. On the MATLAB platform, the proposed technique is assessed and contrasted with other existing techniques. The simulation results show a decent control of temperature in the system using the OSTPID controller. The proposed method shows better results in all existingcontroller like Fractional Order Proportional Integral Derivative (FOPID) and STPID controllers. The output of OSTPID controller shows notable improvement with respect to settling time as 25.99% for a step input and 11.765% for random input, overshoot as 91.99% for a step input, and 92.53% for random input, RMS as 3.62% for a step input and 0.947% for random input and other time integral performance criteria like ISE, IAE, ITAE, etc. Based on the findings, it can be concluded that the proposed technique's based error is smaller than that of the other approaches.
Towards the sustainability of African sandalwood: Understanding the distribution and environmental requirements
Authors: Mwangi Jane Gachambi , Mohammed Salisu , Umar Kabir Mustapha , Haggar Jeremy , Santika Truly
Published: January 2025

Societal Impact Statement

African sandalwood (Osyris lanceolata) leaves, roots, barks, fruits, and woods are used for multiple purposes throughout Asia, Africa, and Europe. The species is threatened in several eastern African countries. To improve the species' management and conservation, a habitat suitability study was undertaken in its at‐risk region in eastern Africa and extended to southern and horn of Africa due to its continuous distribution. African sandalwood continues to face intense human pressure and needs to be prioritized in terms of sustainable management practices. The plant's significant human importance necessitates inclusive conservation measures in all three habitat regions in Africa to safeguard it.

African sandalwood (Osyris lanceolata) is a versatile plant with significant economic and societal importance. It is threatened in several countries in Africa due to overexploitation. The lack of knowledge about the plant's ecology and environmental requirements complicates the species' long‐term management.

We sought to address this issue by providing a novel understanding of the environmental factors that influence the occurrence of African sandalwood and its potential distribution. Using publicly available occurrence records from 1950 to 2021 and field data, we examined the species' habitat requirements in eastern, southern, and horn of Africa regions. We applied the Generalized Additive Models to link the plant's occurrence data to 12 environmental variables reflecting climatic, physiographic, and edaphic characteristics, while controlling for the biases that arise from publicly gathered occurrence records.

Our findings revealed that the plant's habitat requirements vary among the three regions investigated. While climatic factors are essential in all three regions, physiographic aspects are mainly important for the eastern and southern populations, while edaphic variables were pertinent exclusively in southern region. Areas suitable and optimal for the plant were estimated to comprise 674,700 km2 (17.3% of total land area) in eastern Africa, 267,750 km2 (25.6%) in the horn of Africa, and 716,300 km2 (13.9%) in southern Africa.

More than two‐thirds of these areas are located on unprotected lands, highlighting the importance of community involvement for a sustainable management of the species. Our results on the potential geographical distribution of African sandalwood are crucial to guide more targeted conservation and recovery efforts.
Photoexcited Electro‐Driven Reactive Oxygen Species Channeling for Precise Extraction of Biomarker Information from Tumor Interstitial Fluid
Authors: Xie Xiyue , Tang Shuqi , Zhai Chunhui , Fu Kaixiu , Li Fan , Cai Kaiyong , Zhang Jixi
Published: January 2025

Direct electrochemical detection of miRNA biomarkers in tumor tissue interstitial fluid (TIF) holds great promise for adjuvant therapy for tumors in the perioperative period, yet is limited by background interference and weak signal. Herein, a wash‐free and separation‐free miRNA biosensor based on photoexcited electro‐driven reactive oxygen channeling analysis (LEOCA) is developed to solve the high‐fidelity detection in physiological samples. In the presence of miRNA, nanoacceptors (ultrasmall‐size polydopamine, uPDA) are responsively assembled on the surface of nanodonors (zirconium metal‐organic framework, ZrMOF) to form core‐satellite aggregates. The produced lifetime‐constraint singlet oxygen upon light irradiation is captured by the catechol of constrained uPDA, and the oxidized quinone is immediately electro‐reduced to the catechol at transient collision process on the electrode, resulting in a cascade electron transfer and amplified current. Thereby, the nanosensor exhibits a low detection limit (1.1 fM), and high reproducibility (relative standard deviation of 2.0%). Compared with quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR), the clinical accuracy (area under the curve value) is significantly increased from 0.75 to 0.93 in distinguishing breast cancer patients from healthy donors. This study demonstrates an inspiration on the synergy of the reactive oxygen channeling between nanodonor/nanoacceptor and the synchronous electron transfer cascade on the electrode to solve the bottleneck problem of detecting unprocessed clinical samples in a sample‐in‐answer‐out manner.
Modulating Solid‐Solution Solubility to Enhance Thermoelectric Performance and Maintain Structural Stability in Phase‐Transition Silver Chalcogenides
Authors: Huang Lu Yun‐Han , Jen I‐Lun , Chiang Ching‐Yu , Hsieh Wan‐Zhen , Yin Gung‐Chian , Song Yen‐Fang , Wu Hsin‐Jay
Published: January 2025

Silver chalcogenides exhibit exceptional transport properties but face structural instability at high temperatures, limiting their practical applications. Using Ag2Te as a model, it is confirm that silver whisker growth above the phase transition renders Ag2Te unsuitable for thermoelectric applications. Here, the whisker growth mechanism is investigated and propose an inhibition strategy, overcoming a major obstacle in using silver chalcogenides. The presence of highly mobile Ag and lattice strain cause by phase transition are two factors leading to the formation of silver whiskers. Adding a trace amount of Ga inhibits silver whisker growth by forming an immobile Ag‐Ga solid‐solution phase and optimizing thermoelectric performance simultaneously. Consequently, a single leg of Ga‐Ag2Te achieves a conversion efficiency of 2.3% with a ΔT of 300 K and remains whisker‐free after high‐temperature testing. A thermally robust, high‐performance thermoelectric single leg based on liquid‐like silver chalcogenides is successfully developed.
A Wireless Health Monitoring System Accomplishing Bimodal Decoupling Based on an “IS”‐Shaped Multifunctional Conductive Hydrogel
Authors: Li Yufeng , Yang Xu , Ding Yarong , Zhang Huiwen , Cheng Yafang , Li Xiaofang , Sun Jiachun , Liu Yannan , Li Yingchun , Fan Daidi
Published: January 2025

Flexible wearable sensors with bimodal functionality offer substantial value for human health monitoring, as relying on a single indicator is insufficient for capturing comprehensive physiological information. However, bimodal sensors face multiple challenges in practical applications, including mutual interference between various modalities, and integration of excellent mechanical properties, interfacial adhesion, environmental adaptability and biocompatibility. Herein, the multifunctional hydrogel, synthesized through radical grafting and supramolecular self‐crosslinking reactions, exhibits excellent thermal sensitivity (TCR = −1.70% °C−1), high toughness (9.31 MJ m−3), wide strain range (0–600%), outstanding adhesion strength (36.07 kPa), antifreeze, visualization, water retention, biocompatibility, antibacterial and antioxidant capabilities. Leveraging its excellent conductivity, this hydrogel can be applied in electroluminescent, triboelectricity, electromyography monitoring, and message encryption. Moreover, the hydrogel is fabricated as bimodal smart sensors for strain and temperature monitoring. To avoid mutual interference between the two signals, a wearable system in “IS”‐shaped configuration is innovatively designed based on finite element simulation results. The integration of “IS”‐shaped hydrogel, flexible circuit modules, and data transmission form a closed‐loop wearable platform for rehabilitation training of patients with arthritis or joint surgery. This strategy establishes a bimodal decoupling and self‐calibrating system utilizing a single material to accurately detect multiple parameters, advancing wearable electronics and personalized medicine.
Boosting Carrier Mobility in 2D Layered Perovskites for High‐Performance UV Photodetector
Authors: Liu Zhirong , Zhang Zhiguo , Liu Yuping , Luo Ronghua , Cheng Yuehuan , Shen Yan , Wang Kejia , Wang Mingkui
Published: January 2025

2D hybrid perovskites have attracted great interest due to their promising potential in photodetectors. The phase structure, dielectric, and excitonic properties in 2D perovskites play a pivotal role in the performance of the corresponding optoelectronic device. Here a lattice anchoring method is demonstrated to boost carrier mobility in 2D perovskites by tailoring large organic spacer cation layers. By tuning the electron‐withdrawing halogens at the 4‐position of the phenyl group in the widely investigated component C6H5CH2NH3+ (PMA+), it is found that the exciton binding energy of 2D perovskites can be reduced by improving the dielectric constant of organic layers. It is revealed that the carrier mobility is increased by 1.5‐fold in the F‐PMA2PbCl4 perovskite. Meanwhile, the lattice stability is improved together with the high material hardness by reducing the distortion of inorganic sheets. The vertically structured UV photodetector with F‐PMA2PbCl4 perovskite layer achieves a high detectivity of 1.89 × 1014 Jones. The work opens a new class method for improving the performance of 2D perovskite‐based devices and paves the way to high responsivity and sensitivity.
The recumbirostran Hapsidopareion lepton from the early Permian (Cisuralian: Artinskian) of Oklahoma reassessed using HRμCT, and the placement of Recumbirostra on the amniote stem
Authors: Jenkins Xavier A. , Sues Hans‐Dieter , Webb Savannah , Schepis Zackary , Peecook Brandon R. , Mann Arjan
Published: January 2025

Recumbirostra is a clade of heavily modified, superficially lizard‐like tetrapods that were originally interpreted as ‘microsaurian lepospondyls’ unrelated to the amniote crown. However, recent work has placed Recumbirostra within Reptilia, based on many similarities between the braincase and postcranium of recumbirostrans with early reptiles. Here, the early Permian hapsidopareiid recumbirostran Hapsidopareion lepton is re‐described using high‐resolution μCT data of three individuals across distinct ontogenetic stages, including the holotype specimen. These data reveal a suite of similarities with the hapsidopareiid Llistrofus pricei, suggesting that the latter is a subjective junior synonym of Hapsidopareion lepton. Furthermore, we highlight derived features present in Recumbirostra and Amniota that are otherwise absent in early reptiliomorphs, including: a single supraoccipital element that contributes to the endosseous labyrinths, the absence of paired endolymphatic fossae, and the presence of a distinct ampullary fossa between the semicircular canals. We also identify plesiomorphies of the braincase and skull roof of Hapsidopareion that are present in recumbirostrans and early stem‐amniotes but lacking in unambiguous crown amniotes. This suggests that features previously uniting recumbirostrans with reptiles are possible symplesiomorphies of Amniota, and a new phylogenetic analysis places Recumbirostra as a crownward group along the amniote stem, more derived than traditionally recognized reptiliomorphs such as Seymouria. Our findings highlight the need for further anatomical and descriptive studies of both stem‐ and crown‐group amniotes, and specifically the need for further revisions to those taxa originally regarded as ‘microsaurs’.
Festschrift for Mike Jackson
Authors: Dwivedi Ashish , Midgley Gerald
Published: January 2025

This is the editorial for a festschrift for Mike Jackson. We begin by outlining six phases of Jackson's research, from 1982 to the present day: an initial critique of soft systems thinking and soft operational research (OR); a proposal for methodological pluralism to overcome the hard/soft divide; a description of an ‘enhanced systems/OR’ that acknowledges the complexities, uncertainties and conflicts regularly encountered in practice; the further development and popularization of his enhanced OR under the banners of ‘critical systems thinking’ and ‘total systems intervention’; the consolidation of his work in three books with mature presentations of his perspective; and a rethinking of the history of both systems thinking and systems science, accompanied by a renewed focus on the implications of his methodological ideas for systems practice. Following this outline, we move on to an overview of the papers in the festschrift, each of which either expands on Mike Jackson's ideas, applies them in new application domains, or critiques those ideas and provides alternatives.
Polymers for mRNA Delivery
Authors: Wang Hui , Cheng Yiyun
Published: January 2025

mRNA delivery has emerged as a transformative approach in biotechnology and medicine, offering a versatile platform for the development of novel therapeutics. Unlike traditional small molecule drugs or protein‐based biologics, mRNA therapeutics have the unique ability to direct cells to generate therapeutic proteins, allowing for precise modulation of biological processes. The delivery of mRNA into target cells is a critical step in realizing the therapeutic potential of this technology. In this review, our focus is on the latest advancements in designing functional polymers to achieve efficient mRNA delivery. Biodegradable polymers and low molecular weight polymers in addressing the balance in mRNA binding and release are summarized. Benefiting from the excellent performance of lipid nanoparticles in mRNA delivery, polymer/lipid hybrid nanostructures are also included. Finally, the challenges and future prospects in the development of polymer‐based mRNA delivery systems are discussed.
Erratum to: Probing the mixing between sterile and tau neutrinos in the SHiP experiment
Authors: Choi Ki-Young , Kim Sung Hyun , Kim Yeong Gyun , Lee Kang Young , Lee Kyong Sei , Do Park Byung , Sohn Jong Yoon , Yoo Seong Moon , Yoon Chun Sil
Published: January 2025

A correction to this paper has been published: https://doi.org/10.1007/JHEP06(2024)166
Peculiar Variations and Long-term Changes in Sea Level Observed in the Lanzarote Geosciences Laboratory (Canary Islands, Spain)
Authors: Benavent M. , Arnoso J. , Vélez E. J. , Montesinos F. G. , Tammaro U. , Riccardi U.
Published: January 2025

We use tide gauge data spanning from 2005 to 2023 in the Geosciences Laboratory at Lanzarote (Canary Islands, Spain) to perform a detailed analysis of the local short and long-term changes not previously examined in this area. Sea level is affected by the spatial and temporal climate variability on annual to decadal time scales. Consequently, the analysis of the linear trends of sea level can be difficult even when long time series are available. To achieve this objective, we investigate multi-year (from 3 to 10 years) and decadal variations of sea level through its connection with climate indexes such as the sea surface temperature, the sunspots or the North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO). First, we apply the standard corrections for the ocean tides, the atmospheric dynamics and the interannual and seasonal variability of the observed time series. Second, we study the sea level changes at multi-year to decadal scales by applying the maximal overlap discrete wavelet transform for the decomposition of the sea level signal. Furthermore, the correlations between the sea level and complementary data (sea water temperature, sunspot number and NAO Index) are investigated by means of the cross-wavelet and wavelet coherence methods. Finally, we perform a linear regression analysis of the sea level changes with the sea water temperature, including periodic components, to model the observed sea level data. Jointly with the tide gauge data, the sea level is monitored using a GNSS permanent station co-located with the tide gauge site. The study of both time series (sea level and vertical ground displacement), after removal of the previously modelled tidal and non-tidal components, provides the long-term linear trend for the complete period, from 2005 to 2023: an increase of 0.33 ± 0.06 cm/yr for the sea level and an increase of about 0.016 ± 0.003 cm/yr for GNSS-vertical displacement.
Land Use Change Disrupts the Network Complexity and Stability of Soil Microbial Carbon Cycling Genes Across an Agricultural Mosaic Landscape
Authors: Byers Alexa K. , Wakelin Steve A. , Condron Leo , Black Amanda
Published: January 2025

To understand the effects of agricultural land use change and management on soil carbon (C) cycling, it is crucial to examine how these changes can influence microbial soil C cycling. Network analysis can offer insights into the structure, complexity, and stability of the soil microbiome in response to environmental disturbances, including land use change. Using SparCC-based co-occurrence networks, we studied how land use change impacts the connectivity, complexity, and stability of microbial C-cycling gene networks across an agricultural mosaic landscape in Canterbury, New Zealand. The most densely connected networks were found in land uses that were under the most intensive agricultural management, or under naturally regenerating vegetation. The microbial C-cycling gene networks from both land uses presented high network connectivity, low modularity, and a low proportion of negative gene interactions. In contrast, microbial C-cycling genes from native forests, which had the most stable and undisturbed plant cover, had the lowest network connectivity, highest modularity, and a greater proportion of negative gene interactions. Although the differences in total soil C content between land uses were small, the large effects of land use on the network structure of microbial C-cycling genes may have important implications for long-term microbial soil C cycling. Furthermore, this research highlights the value of using microbial network analysis to study the metabolic gene interactions shaping the functional structure of soil microbial communities in a manner not typically captured by more traditional forms of microbial diversity analysis.
Standardizing the reporting of cholangiocarcinoma: the society of abdominal radiology disease focused panel on cholangiocarinoma lexicon
Authors: M. Marks Robert , Arif Hina , Antonietta Bali Maria , L. Brunsing Ryan , M. Cunha Guilherme , Khasawneh Hala , El Homsi Maria , Singh Charanjeet , Paspulati Raj , Kierans Andrea , Qayyum Aliya
Published: January 2025

In March 2023, the Society of Abdominal Radiology (SAR) Disease Focused Panel (DFP) on Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) was formed. One of its initial tasks was for creation of a lexicon specific for CCA to complement the terms related to the Liver Imaging Reporting and Data System (LI-RADS) category M. A committee was formed and vetted 15 unique terms for CCA. The multidisciplinary members of the DFP passed each term by over 90% approval. The purpose of this paper is to describe the process for developing the lexicon, introduce the lexicon terms, and provide a pictorial atlas of the 15 vetted terms relating to the imaging findings of CCA.
Assessing the EU27 Potential to Meet the Nature Restoration Law Targets
Authors: Perissi Ilaria
Published: January 2025

The Nature Restoration Law adopted by the European Union in 2024 aims to implement measures to restore at least 20% of its land and sea by 2030 and all ecosystems in need of restoration by 2050, focusing on among others agricultural land, forests, urban, marine, freshwater, and wetlands areas. The goal is to enhance the natural and semi-natural habitats’ role in achieving climate targets and preserving biodiversity. Member States must submit detailed national restoration plans, outlining specific actions and mechanisms for monitoring progress. However, these plans should align with the ongoing Common Agricultural Policy and National Energy and Climate Plans objectives. Using data from European Commission reports and applying a semantic interval scale methodology, this study quantifies each Member State’s ambitions and effectiveness under the National Energy Climate Plans and Common Agricultural Policy and establishes a benchmark for reporting under the Nature Restoration Law. The findings reveal the National Energy Climate Plans’ wide disparities in implementing decarbonization measures, climate change adaptation and the implementation of nature-based solutions. The Common Agricultural Policy Plans exhibit only partial commitment to greening agriculture, yet their alignment with Nature Restoration Law objectives varies. Therefore, timely coordination between the three strategies is crucial to avoid conflicting goals, overlapping efforts, and wasting time and resources, ensuring the success of restoration actions.
A comic that explains palliative care: how patients experience comic-based educational material
Authors: Kitta Anna , Winsauer Sarah , Marx Sal , Kum Lea , Adamidis Feroniki , Ecker Franziska , Stöger Jessica , Masel Eva Katharina
Published: January 2025

Objective

The aim of this study was to create a patient-centered comic on palliative care with and for patients admitted to a palliative care unit and to examine their experiences of graphic educational material.

Methods

This study employed a qualitative methodology using semi-structured interviews with advanced cancer patients admitted to the palliative care unit of the Medical University of Vienna. The data were analyzed using thematic analysis with the assistance of the MAXQDA software.

Results

In the first phase of the comic creation 6 interviews were conducted and 15 additional interviews in the second phase, all of which examined patients’ reactions to the comic. The findings revealed three themes: 1) patients’ experiences with and understanding of graphics about palliative care, 2) patients’ perceptions of the possibilities for use of the comic and 3) how the visual material facilitated access to the patients’ shared imagination and interpretations. The medium generated curiosity, participation, and positive reactions. Patients were inclined to be involved in patient-centered educational material that enabled an entry into conversations and connection, giving access to feelings and associations of patients.

Conclusion

The results of the present study offer insights into mostly positive reactions of patients when presented with a comic about palliative care. The study showed how illustrated educational information led to deepened conversation among the interviewer and the patients, offering insights into their experiences and imagination.
From spasms to smiles: how facial recognition and tracking can quantify hemifacial spasm severity and predict treatment outcomes
Authors: Menabbawy Ahmed Al , Ruhser Lennart , Refaee Ehab El , Weidemeier Martin E. , Matthes Marc , Schroeder Henry W. S.
Published: January 2025

Purpose

Currently available grading and classification systems for hemifacial spasm either rely on subjective assessments or are excessively intricate. Here, we make use of facial recognition and facial tracking technologies towards accurately grouping patients according to severity and characteristics of the spasms.

Methods

A retrospective review of our prospectively maintained preoperative videos database for hemifacial spasm was done. Videos were analyzed using an Apple AR kit-based App. A facial mesh is automatically allocated to specific biometric facial points. Videos are analyzed using Blender software for measuring the amplitude and frequency of the spasms. Classification of the patients into groups was done using both divisive k-means and agglomerative hierarchical clustering. Correlation-Analysis with preoperative quality of Life (Qol) using SF-36 questionnaire and HFS-8 score was performed. Additionally, correlation with postoperative outcome was calculated.

Results

79 preoperative videos were included. Both up-bottom and bottom-up clustering approaches grouped the patients into 3 different clusters according to 4 variables (eye closure, mouth distance change, rate, and repetition of the spasms). Correlation of the groups with the Qol was done for 46/79 patients (58.2%). Spasms could be classified into mild, moderate clonic and severe tonic spasms. Patients with mild spasms showed better Qol scores. Moderate clonic spasms experienced best outcomes following microvascular decompression.

Conclusion

This novel classification using facial-tracking and augmented-reality is easy to use and apply. It quantifies the severity and type of the spasms and relates it to the quality of life of patients, postoperative outcome, and could guide our management strategy.
Rice flour-based filled hydrogel: an effective vitamin D encapsulation system as influenced by rice flour variety
Authors: Kim Chaeyoung , Park Shinjae , Rho Shin-Joung , Kim Yong-Ro
Published: January 2025

This study investigated the effects of the physicochemical properties of filled hydrogels based on rice flour with varying amylose contents on the stability of encapsulated vitamin D3 (VD, cholecalciferol). The filled hydrogel, prepared based on Saemimyeon with an amylose content of 25.5%, formed a gel with strong elasticity, showing the highest stability during in vitro digestion, as well as excellent pH and storage stability of the encapsulated VD. Dodamssal, which had the highest amylose content (> 40%) and gelatinization temperature, retrograded rapidly due to its high leached amylose content. This phenomenon caused gel shrinkage and subsequent emulsion leakage, resulting in a relatively lower VD retention rate after in vitro digestion compared to the Saemimyeon-based filled hydrogel. Nevertheless, compared to the emulsion system, the rice flour-based filled hydrogels formed various types of gel matrices that provided a physical barrier to the VD-containing lipid droplets, thereby significantly protecting them from the external environment.
Genome-based development and clinical evaluation of a customized LAMP panel to rapidly detect, quantify, and determine antibiotic sensitivity of Escherichia coli in native urine samples from urological patients
Authors: Fritzenwanker Moritz , Grabitz Marcel O. , Negwer Vera , Schwengers Oliver , Arneth Borros , Chakraborty Trinad , Imirzalioglu Can , Wagenlehner Florian
Published: January 2025

Purpose

We designed and tested a point of care test panel to detect E.coli and antibiotic susceptibility in urine samples from patients at the point of care in the urological department. The aim of this approach is to facilitate choosing an appropriate antibiotic for urinary tract infections (UTI) at first presentation in the context of increasing antibiotic resistance in uropathogens worldwide.

Methods

We analyzed 162 E.coli isolates from samples from a university urological department to determine phenotypic and genotypic resistance data. With this data we created customized LAMP (loop-mediated isothermal amplification) panels for a commercial machine with which to detect and possibly quantify E.coli and six antibiotic resistance determinants. In a second step we tested these panel(s) for diagnostic accuracy on 1596 urine samples and compared with routine microbiological culture.

Results

E.coli was detected with 95.4% sensitivity and 96.1% specificity. Dynamics of the LAMP amplification could be used to gauge bacterial loads in the samples. Antibiotic sensitivity was detected with good negative (sensitive) predictive values: ampicillin 92.8%, ampicillin/sulbactam 96.4%, cefuroxime 92.8%, cefotaxime 97.8%, trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole 96.5%, ciprofloxacin 96.8%.

Conclusion

The LAMP panel provided E.coli detection and sensitivity information within one hour and thus could principally guide initial antibiotic therapy upon patients presenting with UTI. The panel helps to select initial adequate antibiotic therapy as well as providing diagnostic stewardship. Follow up investigations will expand the test system to other uropathogens.
Stabilité structurelle du feuilletage de Jouanolou de degré 2
Authors: Alvarez Aurélien , Deroin Bertrand
Published: January 2025

Nous démontrons que le feuilletage de Jouanolou de degré 2 sur le plan projectif complexe est structurellement stable. De plus, son ensemble de Fatou est une fibration holomorphe sur la quartique de Klein ayant une structure de fibré lisse localement trivial en disques. En particulier, aucune feuille de $\mathcal{J}_{2}$

J
2

n’est dense dans $\mathbf{P}^{2}$

P
2

.
Protecting intellectual property rights in Türkiye: navigating legal and cultural dimensions
Authors: Bural Dilara
Published: January 2025

This study is dedicated to examining Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) enforcement in Türkiye, a nation recognized as a significant producer and transit hub in the illicit trade of counterfeit goods. Türkiye has undergone substantial transformations in its IPR regime over the past decade, marked by the enactment of new legislation featuring enhanced criminal provisions and penalties specifically addressing trademark infringement. Despite being one of the primary source economies for counterfeit goods entering the European Union, the academic discourse on the IPR enforcement landscape in Türkiye, alongside the perceptions surrounding IPR within the nation, remains inadequately explored. This qualitative inquiry seeks to fill this scholarly lacuna by investigating the perceptions of IPR among pivotal stakeholders responsible for IPR enforcement, including legal professionals, prosecutors, judges, and law enforcement officials in the country.
The Process of Collaborating with First-Grade Children as Co-Researchers: A Case Study Approach to Examining COVID-19
Authors: Özengen Elif Kevser Dereli , Yatmaz Zeynep B. Erdiller
Published: January 2025

This study details the methodology of a case study conducted with children aged 6–7 on COVID-19, emphasizing their important roles as co-researchers. During the study, children’s competencies were highlighted, and their voices were listened to with minimal adult interference. The research was conducted using the research with-children method, and 14 first-grade students from a private primary school in Istanbul, Turkey, actively contributed. Children participated in the research as researchers through their drawings, photographs, and individual and group interviews. The research process revealed that when children choose their research topics and create their questions, they enthusiastically engage and take ownership of their learning, fostering leadership and active participation. Research involving children should not be viewed merely as asking questions through adults. Using participant-friendly methods can enhance the enjoyment and meaning of the study for everyone involved.
Information avoidance: An experimental test of anticipated regret
Authors: Cavlovic Therese , Koford Brandon C. , Rentschler Lucas
Published: January 2025

One reason people may avoid potentially useful information is to eliminate anticipated regret. We develop a model of anticipated regret and use it to derive predictions about how the accuracy of information and the ability to mitigate negative states of the world affect the decision to be informed. The model predicts that higher information accuracy and more effective mitigation options reduce information avoidance. We test these predictions using a laboratory experiment with a real-effort task and uncertain payoffs. Subjects choose whether to receive free but imperfect information about the state of the world (the piece-rate for the effort task) before deciding on a costly mitigation investment, doing the real effort task, and then learning their final payoff. We vary both the accuracy of the information and the effectiveness of mitigation in a

$$2\times 2$$

2
×
2

between-subjects experimental design. We find that increasing the accuracy of information increases information acquisition. Increasing mitigation effectiveness only increases informedness slightly, and the results are not significant. Overall, our results are consistent with our model of anticipated regret, but decision-making is noisier than predicted.
Split-Hopkinson Pressure Bar Testing of Water with Partial Lateral Confinement
Authors: Li K.S.O. , Van Lerberghe A. , Barr A. D. , Dennis A. A. , Clarke S. D.
Published: January 2025

Background

For the first time, the high-strain-rate behaviour of water is investigated experimentally and validated to LS-DYNA numerical simulations, using Smooth Particle Hydrodynamics (SPH).

Objective

This paper presents the application of a modified split-Hopkinson pressure bar (SHPB) fitted with a partial lateral confinement apparatus on a water specimen.

Method

The lateral confinement is provided by a water reservoir surrounding the specimen. A pressure transducer is installed in the reservoir wall to measure lateral stresses, and a dispersion correction algorithm, , is utilised to obtain accurate measurements of axial and radial stresses and strains.

Results

Experimental results underscore the capability of the modified apparatus to assess triaxial behaviour of water under high-strain rates. Comparisons with numerical modelling reveal that cohesion between water particles is non-existent, highlighting an intrinsic limitation in numerical modelling.

Conclusion

These results highlight the capability to perform characterisation of fluids under high-strain rates. While limitations in numerical modelling still exist, numerical modelling and experimental testing using the modified apparatus can be applied to characterise fluid behaviour in the future.
Impact of adherence to the Mediterranean diet on stroke risk
Authors: Ungvari Zoltan , Fekete Mónika , Varga Péter , Fekete János Tibor , Buda Annamaria , Szappanos Ágnes , Lehoczki Andrea , Mózes Noémi , Grosso Giuseppe , Menyhart Otilia , Munkácsy Gyöngyi , Tarantini Stefano , Yabluchanskiy Andriy , Ungvari Anna , Győrffy Balázs
Published: January 2025

Stroke is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, and dietary patterns have emerged as a significant modifiable factor in stroke prevention. The Mediterranean diet, characterized by high intake of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, olive oil, and fish, has been widely recognized for its cardiovascular benefits. However, its specific impact on stroke risk requires further elucidation. We conducted a comprehensive meta-analysis of 30 studies, including both cohort and case–control designs, to evaluate the relationship between adherence to the Mediterranean diet and the risk of stroke. A systematic search was performed across multiple databases, and a random-effects model was used to estimate pooled hazard ratios (HRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Heterogeneity was assessed using the I2 statistic, and publication bias was examined through funnel plots and Egger’s regression test. Additionally, trial sequential analysis was conducted to determine the adequacy of the sample size. The meta-analysis revealed a significant reduction in stroke risk among individuals adhering to the Mediterranean diet, with a pooled HR of 0.88 (95% CI: 0.84–0.91). Notably, a significant heterogeneity was detected (I2 = 34%). The Z-score plot from trial sequential analysis confirmed that the sample sizes were sufficient to draw definitive conclusions. However, a potential publication bias was identified. The case–control studies confirmed a highly significant effect (HR = 0.54, 95% CI: 0.4–0.73). The funnel plots in both settings hinted at the presence of a potential publication bias, supported by a significant Egger’s test. Our findings provide robust evidence supporting the protective effect of the Mediterranean diet against stroke. Despite the presence of some heterogeneity and potential publication bias, the cumulative evidence suggests that promoting the Mediterranean diet could serve as an effective public health strategy for stroke prevention. Further research is recommended to explore the underlying mechanisms and to assess the diet’s impact across diverse populations.
Empagliflozin Mitigates PTZ-Induced Seizures in Rats: Modulating Npas4 and CREB-BDNF Signaling Pathway
Authors: Abdelaziz Heba A , Hamed Mohamed F. , Ghoniem Hamdy A. , Nader Manar A. , Suddek Ghada M.
Published: January 2025

Empagliflozin (EMPA) is one of the sodium/glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors that has been recently approved for the treatment of diabetes mellitus type II. Recently, EMPA has shown protective effects in different neurological disorders, besides its antidiabetic activity. Kindling is a relevant model to study epilepsy and neuroplasticity. This study aimed to investigate the potential protective effects of EMPA (1 and 3 mg/kg orally) against convulsant effects induced by pentylenetetrazole (PTZ) using a modified window- (win-) PTZ kindling protocol. The biochemical dysfunction and hippocampal damage induced by PTZ were profoundly reversed by EMPA treatment in a dose-dependent manner, as evidenced by the significant increase in reduced glutathione (GSH) and decrease in malondialdehyde (MDA) hippocampal contents. Furthermore, EMPA counteracted PTZ-induced neuronal damage in the hippocampal region, as confirmed by histopathological examination of the hippocampal tissues. EMPA impaired astrocytosis and showed an antiapoptotic effect through a significant reduction of glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) and BCL2-Associated X Protein (BAX) expressions, respectively. Interestingly, EMPA exhibited an antiepileptic effect against PTZ-induced seizures through significantly reducing neuronal PAS domain Protein 4 (Npas4), cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) response element binding protein (CREB) hippocampal expressions, and enhancing the brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF)-tropomyosin receptor kinase B (TrkB) pathway, which are found to be involved in epileptogenesis, eventually leading to significant improvement of behavioral impairments induced by PTZ. Hence, these results showed further prospective insights for EMPA as a neuroprotective agent.

Graphical Abstract
Analysis of Stirring Action to Control Grain Refinement of Inconel 625 Superalloy Bead on Plate Using Laser Wobble Technology
Authors: Roy Angshuman , Pamarthi Venkat Vivek , Kumar Nikhil , Masters Iain
Published: January 2025

In this paper, the influence of various laser wobbling patterns, such as circle, ellipse, figure eight, bowtie, Celtic, flower, atomic, hexagon, triangle and star, on grain refinement mechanisms during welding of Inconel 625 sheets is evaluated. An in-depth analysis of molten pool stirring mechanisim during welding was addressed to understand the effectiveness of wobble patterns in grain refinement and fusion zone (FZ) strengthening. The dynamic stirring effect of the laser beam’s wobble motion significantly influences the solidification process and resulting microstructure. Laser spot trajectories and temporal energy deposition were analyzed to elucidate their impact on the FZ. Electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) micrographs showed significant grain refinement during the welding. However, the wobbling patterns with elliptical and flower-type paths resulted in coarse equiaxed grains with an average grain size of ~ 52 µm. Furthermore, the optimal patterns for refining the grain structure of Inconel 625 superalloy during laser welding are circular and atomic-type wobble patterns with grain refinement of ~ 35%. These findings highlight the potential of tailored laser wobble patterns for optimizing weld quality through controlled grain nucleation and refinement.
Peer-Led Adjunctive Interventions for Increasing the Reach of HIV Prevention and Care Interventions to Latino/x/e Men Who Have Sex with Men: a Scoping Review
Authors: Jaramillo Jahn , Chavez Jennifer V. , Larson Michaela E. , Harkness Audrey
Published: January 2025

Purpose of Review

Latino/x/e men who have sex with men (LMSM) in the United States are disproportionately affected by HIV. Peer-led adjunctive interventions show promise for enhancing engagement in HIV prevention and care among LMSM, but their effectiveness and implementation remain underexplored. This scoping review aimed to map existing evidence on peer-led interventions, identify gaps, and inform future research for enhancing HIV prevention and care among LMSM.

Recent Findings

We followed PRISMA-ScR guidelines, covering literature from 2011 to 2022, using Covidence for systematic screening and data extraction. Articles were categorized by intervention aspects like delivery methods, outcomes, translational phases, theory-informed approaches, and cultural adaptation levels. The search yielded 613 records, with 22 meeting eligibility criteria, including 17 unique interventions. Interventions were delivered individually (57%), in groups (30%), to couples (4%), and via public campaigns (4%). Outcomes included HIV testing uptake (74%), treatment linkage (39%), PrEP uptake (22%), and PEP uptake (4%). Translational phases included formative (22%), pilot (26%), efficacy (22%), and effectiveness (22%). Cultural adaptations were surface (22%) and deep (13%).

Findings indicate diverse peer-led interventions for LMSM, though many are in early stages of development. Further research is needed to move these interventions along the translational pathway to enhance their public health impact.
Neuromodulation for Headache Management in Pregnancy
Authors: Smirnoff Liza , Bravo Michelle , Hyppolite Tayina
Published: January 2025

Purpose of Review

Management of primary headache disorders during pregnancy is limited due to known teratogenicity or unknown safety of many currently available pharmaceutical therapies. Here, we explore the safety and efficacy of non-invasive neuromodulatory devices as another treatment modality for pregnant patients.

Recent Findings

There are six FDA-cleared, non-invasive neuromodulatory devices currently available for the management of headache that include remote electrical neuromodulation (REN), noninvasive vagal nerve stimulation (nVNS), external trigeminal nerve stimulation (eTNS), single-pulse transcranial magnetic stimulation (sTMS), and external concurrent occipital and trigeminal neurostimulation (eCOT-NS).

Neuromodulatory devices are a safe, effective, and well tolerated non-pharmacological option for migraine and other primary headache disorders. Although evidence of safety and tolerability use in pregnancy is limited, they may serve as a therapeutic alternative or adjunct to improve the care of our pregnant patients.
Real-Time Automated Measurements of Optic Nerve Sheath Diameter for Noninvasive Assessment of Intracranial Pressure in Aneurysmal Subarachnoid Hemorrhage
Authors: Netteland Dag Ferner , Aarhus Mads , Sandset Else Charlotte , Sorteberg Angelika , Padayachy Llewellyn , Helseth Eirik , Brekken Reidar
Published: January 2025

Background

Optic nerve sheath diameter (ONSD) is a promising noninvasive parameter for intracranial pressure (ICP) assessment. However, in the setting of aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH), several previous studies have reported no association between ultrasonically measured ONSD and ICP. In this study, we evaluate ONSD in patients with aSAH using a novel method of automated real-time ultrasonographic measurements and explore whether factors such as having undergone surgery affects its association to ICP.

Methods

We prospectively included adult patients with aSAH undergoing invasive ICP monitoring. ONSD was obtained using a prototype ultrasound machine with software for real-time automated measurements at the bedside. Correlation between ONSD and ICP was explored, and the ability of ONSD to discriminate dichotomized ICP was evaluated. Abovementioned analyses were performed for the whole cohort and repeated for subgroups by whether the basal cisterns had been surgically entered before ultrasound examination.

Results

Twenty-six ultrasound examinations were performed in 20 patients. There was a positive correlation between ONSD and ICP (R = 0.43; p = 0.03). In the subgroup where the basal cisterns had not been surgically entered before ultrasound examination, there was a stronger correlation (R = 0.55; p = 0.01), whereas no correlation was seen in the subgroup where the basal cisterns had been surgically entered (R = − 0.16; p = 0.70). ONSD displayed an ability to discriminate ICP dichotomized at ≥ 15 mm Hg (area under the curve [AUC] = 0.84, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.65–0.96). Subgroup analysis revealed a perfect discriminatory ability (AUC = 1, 95% CI 0.81–1) where the basal cisterns had not been surgically entered and no discriminatory ability (AUC = 0.47, 95% CI 0.16–0.84) where the basal cisterns had been surgically entered before ultrasound examination.

Conclusions

Automatically measured ONSD correlated well with ICP and displayed a perfect discriminatory ability in patients with aSAH in whom the basal cisterns had not been entered surgically before ultrasound examination, and may be a clinically valuable noninvasive marker of ICP in these patients. Caution should be exercised in using ONSD in patients in whom the basal cisterns have been entered surgically before ONSD measurements, as no association was observed in this subgroup.