bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reinforcing cancer immunotherapy with engineered porous hollow mycobacterium tuberculosis loaded with tumor neoantigens
Authors: Chen Ming-Hui , Jiang Jie , Chen Hengyu , Wu Ri-Hong , Xie Weijing , Dai Shu-Zhen , Zheng Wu-Ping , Tan Guang-Hong , Huang Feng-Ying
Published: February 2025

Background

Enhancing antigen cross-presentation is essential for the development of a tumor neoantigen vaccine. One approach is to stimulate antigen-presenting cells (APCs) to uptake neoantigens.Mycobacterium tuberculosis(MTb) contains pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) recognized by APCs and adhesion molecules that facilitate MTb invasion of APCs. Therefore, we suggest using MTb as a carrier to enhance APC phagocytosis of neoantigens, thereby promoting antigen cross-presentation.

Methods

The successful preparation of the MTb carrier (phMTb) was confirmed through electron and confocal microscopy. Fluorescence microscopy was used to detect PAMPs and adhesion molecules on phMTb as well as to observe its role in aiding dendritic cells (DCs) in antigen uptake into endosomes or lysosomes. Flow cytometry was used to assess the retention of PAMPs and adhesion molecules on phMTb, investigate antigen uptake by DCs, evaluate their activation and maturation status, examine the presentation of tumor neoantigens, and analyze immune cells in draining lymph nodes and tumor tissues. The efficacy of phMTb vaccine formulations in combination with anti-programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) antibody therapy was assessed using the MC38 mouse tumor models. Adverse effects were evaluated through H&E staining of major organs, assessment of reproductive capability and detection of biochemical indices.

Results

The engineered porous hollow phMTb carrier successfully encapsulated model tumor neoantigens, with or without the adjuvant CpG. The phMTb retained PAMPs and adhesion molecules on its surface, similar to the parental MTb, thereby enhancing DC uptake of phMTb and its formulations containing tumor neoantigens and CpG. Vaccines formulated with phMTb facilitated DC maturation, activation, cross-presentation of tumor neoantigens, and promoted migration of phMTb-laden DCs to lymph nodes, enhancing effector and memory CD8+T lymphocyte function. In murine tumor models, immunization with phMTb-formulated neoantigen vaccines elicited a robust tumor-specific cytotoxic T lymphocyte immune response with minimal adverse effects. Additionally, vaccination with phMTb-formulated neoantigen vaccines effectively reversed the tumor’s immune-suppressive microenvironment. Concurrent administration of the PD-1 antibody with the phMTb-formulated neoantigen vaccine exhibited significant synergistic therapeutic effects.

Conclusions

The results of our study highlight the potential clinical translation of personalized tumor neoantigen vaccines using the phMTb carrier.
Diagnosing conflict in clerkship: insights from medical students’ experiences
Authors: Barry Erin S , L’Huillier Joseph C , White Bobbie Ann Adair
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Conflict is an inevitable part of clinical training and often arises from differences in opinions or misunderstandings. Most studies around healthcare conflict focus on perspectives of physicians and nurses, overlooking medical students’ unique perspectives. This study explores medical students’ experiences with conflicts during clerkship, examining types, triggers, and conflict management styles.

Methods

An educational session introduced medical students to conflict types, conflict management modes, and triggers. A total of 167 students wrote reflections about conflicts experienced or observed during their rotations. Both quantitative and qualitative elements were analysed using thematic content analysis.

Results

Conflicts most frequently occurred during surgery (n=49, 32.9%) and internal medicine (n=41, 27.5%) rotations, often involving residents (n=110, 44.7%) and attendings (n=55, 22.4%). Task-related conflicts were most common (n=113, 53.8%), with students primarily using an avoiding (n=91, 60.3%) mode, while others were perceived as using a competing (n=122, 65.2%) mode. Most conflicts were reported as being handled poorly (n=107, 64.8%). Students described five main conflict triggers: (1) conflicts stemming from unclear expectations; (2) hostile or false communication as a conflict driver; (3) unsafe environments reinforced by hierarchy and power; (4) mistrust in team relationships and (5) resident stress impacting student experiences.

Discussion

Identifying conflict characteristics from a student perspective can guide curricular improvements to better prepare students for clerkships and professional practice. Awareness of conflict management styles, types and triggers enables proactive conflict resolution, fostering growth or constructive outcomes. Findings emphasise the importance of setting clear expectations, maintaining effective communication, building psychologically safe environments, reducing stress and establishing trust between students and residents. Based on medical students’ reflections, these patterns may extend to other health professions, offering a broader relevance for training and research in conflict management across clinical settings.
Study on the electromagnetic properties of the $$[sc] [{\bar{q}} {\bar{b}}]$$ and $$[sc] [{\bar{s}} {\bar{b}}]$$ states with $$J^P = 1^+$$
Authors: Özdem Ulaş
Published: February 2025

A systematic study of the electromagnetic properties of exotic states is conducted to elucidate their nature, which continues to be the subject of controversy and incomplete understanding in the field. In this study, the magnetic dipole and quadrupole moments of the tetraquarks

$$[sc] [{\bar{q}} {\bar{b}}]$$

[
s
c
]
[

q

¯

b

¯

]

and

$$[sc] [{\bar{s}} {\bar{b}}]$$

[
s
c
]
[

s

¯

b

¯

]

with

$$J^P = 1^+$$

J
P

=

1
+

are extracted in the context of a compact diquark-antidiquark configuration with the help of the QCD light-cone rules method. The magnetic dipole moments are given as

$$\mu _{[sc] [{\bar{u}} {\bar{b}}]} = -2.12^{+0.74}_{-0.59} \mu _N$$

μ

[
s
c
]
[

u

¯

b

¯

]

=
-
2
.

12

-
0.59

+
0.74

μ
N

,

$$\mu _{[sc] [{\bar{d}} {\bar{b}}]} = 1.66^{+0.60}_{-0.46} \mu _N$$

μ

[
s
c
]
[

d

¯

b

¯

]

=
1
.

66

-
0.46

+
0.60

μ
N

, and

$$\mu _{[sc] [{\bar{s}} {\bar{b}}]} = 2.01^{+0.61}_{-0.50} \mu _N$$

μ

[
s
c
]
[

s

¯

b

¯

]

=
2
.

01

-
0.50

+
0.61

μ
N

. The order of magnitude of the magnetic dipole moments would suggest that these outcomes may be achievable in forthcoming experiments. The magnetic and quadrupole moments of hadrons represent another important observable, along with their mass and decay width, contributing to our understanding of the underlying quark structure and dynamics. Therefore, we hope that the results of this study will prove useful in theoretical and experimental investigations, which we anticipate will be an interesting research topic.
Investigation of 14C(p, γ)15N at low energies
Authors: Kabir Abdul , Almujibah Hamad , Nabi Kaif , Fatima Hijab
Published: February 2025

The radiative capture [Formula: see text]C(p, [Formula: see text])[Formula: see text]N is analyzed within the framework of potential model (PM) and R-matrix framework. The capture cross-section was analyzed for non-resonant and resonant transitions within the pathways that involve radiative capture via electric dipole ([Formula: see text]), and magnetic dipole ([Formula: see text]) transitions. The non-resonant transitions include [Formula: see text] via s- and d-wave capture. The resonant transitions include electric dipole ([Formula: see text]), and magnetic dipole ([Formula: see text]) from the three dominant resonant states above the threshold of p[Formula: see text]+[Formula: see text][Formula: see text]C to the ground state of [Formula: see text]N. Based on the total cross-section, the rates associated with p[Formula: see text][Formula: see text]+[Formula: see text][Formula: see text]C[Formula: see text] [Formula: see text][Formula: see text][Formula: see text]N[Formula: see text]+[Formula: see text][Formula: see text] have been analyzed. In this paper, the resonant capture rates dominate compared to the existing data because, at resonant energies the amplitude of the cross-sections have a dominant effect on the radiative capture rates within the T9 = 1.
EXTENDED HYPERGEOMETRIC LOGARITHMIC FUNCTIONS AND ITS APPLICATION IN GENERALIZED FRACTIONAL KINETIC EQUATIONS
Authors: ABDALLA MOHAMED , ALMALKI YAHYA , MEKAWY IBRAHIM , ABD-ELMAGEED HALA
Published: February 2025

An extension of the beta function that introduces the logarithmic mean is utilized here to extend hypergeometric functions such as Gauss and Kummer hypergeometric logarithmic functions. These functions encompass various well-known special functions as specific cases. This expansion is expected to be beneficial. The text explains some characteristics of the Gauss and Kummer hypergeometric logarithmic functions. Furthermore, it explores the solution of a generalized fractional kinetic equation using these newly extended functions.
APPLICATION OF PEROV FIXED POINT ON MODIFIED ABC COUPLED MODEL OF IMPULSIVE EQUATIONS IN HIGH-FRACTIONAL ORDER
Authors: ALMALAHI MOHAMMED , SABER HICHAM , MOUMEN ABDELKADER , ALI EKRAM E. , ALDWOAH KHALED , HASSAN MOHAMMED , AHMED AHMED HIMADAN
Published: February 2025

This study investigates a coupled model of high-order fractional differential equations (FDEs) using a modified Atangana–Baleanu–Caputo (mABC) operator, incorporating impulsive effects and a novel class of initial value conditions. We establish existence and data dependence theorems for the modified ABC fractional coupled model through Perov’s fixed point theorem. Our approach enhances the modeling of engineering challenges across various fields, including mechanical, electrical, civil, and aerospace engineering. A numerical example is provided to demonstrate the robustness of our findings.
P–Δ Effect Analysis of Tall Slender Structures Subjected to Arbitrary Time-Variant Axial Forces: A Differential Quadrature-Based Approach
Authors: Lu Yan , Zhai Yinquan , Li Hongjing , Yang Xiaopeng , Sun Guangjun
Published: February 2025

Traditional methods for analyzing the P–[Formula: see text] effect in tall structures often fail to fully account for time-varying axial forces, potentially underestimating the impact of the P–[Formula: see text] effect on structural safety. To address this limitation, this paper introduces a high-precision method based on the Differential Quadrature Method (DQM) for advanced analysis of the P–[Formula: see text] effect, applicable to both distributed mass, and concentrated mass structural systems. This method discretizes the partial differential equations governing the motion of structures subjected to arbitrary lateral and axial dynamic loads using Differential Quadrature (DQ) principles, applying DQ weighting matrix corrections method to handle boundary conditions. Additionally, it incorporates the unconditionally stable Newmark average acceleration method to solve for dynamic responses inclusive of the P–[Formula: see text] effect. The method is validated through case studies of high-rise buildings and tall bridge piers, demonstrating strong agreement with results from general finite element software. Results indicate that the proposed method not only effectively captures the influence of time-invariant and time-varying axial forces on lateral vibration characteristics but also provides high-precision dynamic response analysis, offering a highly efficient, and practical tool for analyzing dynamic responses in tall structures.
Diarrheagenic and Uropathogenic Escherichia coli: Biofilm Production and Virulence Factors in Clinical Isolates From Argentina
Authors: Molina Nora B. , León Beltina , Grenóvero Silvia , Bosch Alejandra , López Marisa , Sparo Mónica D.
Published: February 2025

Biofilm formation by Escherichia coli contributes to the persistence of infections. In order to deepen the knowledge about the pathogenesis of E. coli infections, the objective was to assess the biofilm production and the expression of virulence factors of human clinical isolates of E. coli from enteric and urinary infections from Argentina. We analyzed 105 isolates of diarrheagenic E. coli (DEC) and uropathogenic E. coli (UPEC). All isolates (except one) were biofilm producers. The moderate biofilm former (MBF) category was prevalent (38.1%). Curli fimbriae was the most highly expressed virulence factor (94.3%), whereas cellulose, hemolysins, and hemagglutinins were detected at lower frequencies (43.8%, 35.2%, and 33.3%), respectively. The number of DEC isolates that express cellulose was significantly higher than the number of UPEC isolates (p < 0.01). The multifactorial nature of biofilm of E. coli indicates the need for new approaches to understand the pathogenesis and persistence of biofilm‐related infections.
Ohmic Resistance Correction for an Inductive Modulator in DC‐Condition Biassed Plasma Antennas, While Modulation the Signal in the VLF Band
Authors: Salimiyan Mahshad , Jazi Bahram , Shafiei Morteza
Published: February 2025

In this research, the performance of an inductive modulator during energy injection into a straight rod plasma antenna, activated using a DC electric discharge, has been experimentally investigated. The primary focus of this study is on correcting one of the parameters of the inductive modulator, specifically its ohmic resistance. The variations in the ohmic resistance of the modulator with respect to frequency in the very low frequency (VLF) range, between 100 kHz and 50 MHz, are analyzed. This analysis is conducted under varying pressures within the plasma antenna tube. Additionally, the effect of the modulator’s position, whether near or far from the cathode, on the modified ohmic resistance variations is examined and simulated in this study.
Is Gamification Effective for Women Who Wish to Learn Computer Programming?
Authors: Cubillos Claudio , Mellado Rafael , Nóbile Cecilia
Published: February 2025

Women must be more represented in STEM careers, limiting their professional development opportunities. This study analyzes the effect of gamified software on women who want to learn computer programming. This experimental study investigated the effectiveness of gamification on programming learning in female college students. Thirty‐two female students participated, randomly distributed into control (nongamified tools) and experimental (gamified tools) groups. The intervention lasted 4 weeks using Educaplay software, where the experimental group had access to a score and ranking as gamified elements. Learning outcomes, motivation, and usage levels were compared through pre‐ and posttests. There were no significant differences in learning between groups. In motivation, there were only differences in satisfaction, which were favorable to the group without gamification. There were no differences in usage, but the group without gamification scored higher in comfort. It is concluded that there is no solid evidence of the differential effectiveness of gamification for women to learn programming. It is necessary to consider gender stereotypes, motivational differences, and biases in design.
Effect of Environmental Variables on Plant Community Formation and Vegetation Dynamics in Northwest Ethiopia
Authors: Tebabal Worku Misganaw , Wubu Kassaw Awoke , Deresse Sisay Alemu
Published: February 2025

Identifying plant communities has been a central aspect of vegetation science for centuries, with emphasis on the distribution, composition, and classification of plant communities. This study aimed to assess how environmental variables influence plant community formation and vegetation dynamics in northwest Ethiopia. A systematic random sampling technique was employed to gather vegetation data from 50 plots, each measuring 20 × 20 m, arranged at 100‐m intervals along seven transects. In each plot, the encountered species and their percentage cover‐abundance were recorded, which were subsequently transformed into a modified Braun–Blanquet scale. Additionally, composite soil samples collected from 15 × 15 cm subplots were analyzed for 20 soil parameters. The Shannon–Wiener index was used to measure species diversity. Hierarchical clustering and ordination analyses (DCA and RDA) were conducted on the floristic and environmental data, respectively, using R software. A total of 69 woody plant species from 64 genera and 44 families were recorded at altitudes ranging from 2485 to 2747 m above sea level. The Shannon–Wiener diversity index (H) was 3.74, and the evenness index (J) was 0.90. These high species diversity indices showed ecosystem health, stability, reflecting effective species interactions, and resource utilization. Among 6 terrain variables and 14 edaphic factors, 12 of these environmental factors (altitude, slope, aspect, cutting, silt, pH, sand, organic carbon, organic matter, total nitrogen, phosphorus, and calcium) were found significantly to (p ≤ 0.05) explain the variation in species composition and community formation of four plant communities in the study area. The observed patterns of community formation underscore the need to design different conservation measures tailored to the specific environmental conditions at different elevations.
A Pilot Project to Create Awareness of Clinical Research Funding Streams Among Nurses and Allied Health Professionals in England
Authors: Krishnamoorthy Bhuvaneswari , Rosson Lyndsey , Rajai Azita , Heaslip Vanessa , Iles-Smith Heather , Magboo Rosalie , Taylor Marcus , Rathinam Sridhar
Published: February 2025

Background: A culturally diverse research workforce benefits patients, the community and the population as patients see health and care professionals who are like them and can build trusting relationships. From our experience, ethnic minority group nurses are less likely to attend research‐related workshops and have significantly less awareness about clinical research funding and career pathways. This pilot project aimed to create awareness of clinical research terminology, methods and funding streams among ethnic minorities cardiothoracic nurses and allied health professionals (NAHPs) across specific geographical locations in England.

Methods: Participants were invited using social media platforms to attend a research masterclass at various locations across England and 211 were registered but 92 attended. They were also invited to complete a pre‐ and postworkshop questionnaire to determine their understanding of the topics being taught during the masterclass. Data were collected and then compared before and after the masterclass.

Results: A total of 63 out of 92 participants completed the workshop evaluation. There were 88% female and 11% male participants, aged 18 to 60+ years with different educational backgrounds. The participant’s pre‐ and postresearch theory and skills knowledge demonstrated some significant changes after attending the Masterclass on understanding research terminologies (p < 0.001), how study aims, and objectives determine the study methodology (p < 0.001) and the difference between qualitative and quantitative research (p = 0.012). We also asked about the overall experience (98% said 10 out of 10), structure of the workshop (98% said 9 out of 10), venue, food and drinks (95% said 8 out of 10), communication/organisation (98% said 10 out of 10) and relevance of the workshops (100% said 10 out 10).

Conclusions: Our study findings suggest that raising awareness about research careers, local/national funding opportunities and research masterclasses can improve NAHPs awareness of opportunities to gain skills and confidence in leading their own research to answer pertinent clinical and care questions related to their practice and ultimately improve patient care. In addition, this study identifies the gap in clinical research and funding among clinical staff, which is crucial for advancing evidence‐based practice. Encouraging clinical healthcare staff to engage in clinical research will help foster an evidence‐based culture.
Differential Effects of High-Fiber and Low-Fiber Diets on Antitumor Immunity and Colon Tumor Progression in a Murine Model
Authors: Goggin Kevin E. , Seo SeonYeong Jamie , Wu Benjamin G. , Ivelja Sinisa , Kugler Matthias C. , Chang Miao , Darawshy Fares , Li Yonghua , Chung Cecilia J. , Kyeremateng Yaa , Tsay Jun-Chieh J. , Singh Shivani , Sterman Daniel H. , Segal Leopoldo N. , Egilmez Nejat K. , Li Qingsheng
Published: February 2025

The role of dietary fiber in colon cancer prevention remains controversial. We investigated its impact on antitumor immunity and the gut microbiota in APCmin/+ mice infected with enterotoxigenic Bacteroides fragilis. Mice were fed high-fiber, low-fiber, or chow diets, and the tumor burden, survival, cytokines, microbiota, and metabolites were analyzed. Contrary to the belief that high fiber inhibits tumor progression, it had no significant impact compared with chow diet. However, the low-fiber diet significantly reduced the tumor burden and improved survival. Mechanistically, high fiber increased proinflammatory cytokines and CD4+Foxp3+RORγt+IL-17A+ regulatory T cells, whereas low fiber enhanced anti-inflammatory cytokines and cytotoxic T cells. High fiber enriched microbial taxa associated with IL-17A+RORγt+ regulatory T cells and altered metabolites, including reduced tryptophan and increased short-chain fatty acids and bile acids. Low fiber produced opposite effects. These findings suggest that dietary fiber’s effects on colon cancer depends on microbial infection and immune status, emphasizing the need for personalized dietary interventions in colon cancer management.

Prevention Relevance: Dietary fiber’s impact on colon cancer progression highlights the need for personalized dietary approaches, considering microbial infection and immune status.
Individual connectivity-based parcellations reflect functional properties of human auditory cortex
Authors: Hakonen Maria , Dahmani Louisa , Lankinen Kaisu , Ren Jianxun , Barbaro Julianna , Blazejewska Anna , Cui Weigang , Kotlarz Parker , Li Meiling , Polimeni Jonathan R. , Turpin Tori , Uluç Işıl , Wang Danhong , Liu Hesheng , Ahveninen Jyrki
Published: February 2025

Neuroimaging studies of the functional organization of human auditory cortex have focused on group-level analyses to identify tendencies that represent the typical brain. Here, we mapped auditory areas of the human superior temporal cortex (STC) in 30 participants (15 women) by combining functional network analysis and 1-mm isotropic resolution 7T functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI). Two resting-state fMRI sessions, and one or two auditory and audiovisual speech localizer sessions, were collected on 3–4 separate days. We generated a set of functional network-based parcellations from these data. Solutions with 4, 6, and 11 networks were selected for closer examination based on local maxima of the Dice coefficients and Silhouette values. The resulting parcellation of auditory cortices showed intraindividual reproducibility of 69–78% between resting-state sessions and 62–73% between resting-state and task sessions, indicating moderate reproducibility. The interindividual variability was significantly larger than intraindividual variability (Dice coefficient: 57%–68%, p < 0.001), indicating that the parcellations also captured meaningful interindividual variability. The individual-specific parcellations yielded the highest alignment with task response topographies, suggesting that individual variability in parcellations reflects individual variability in auditory function. Connectional homogeneity within networks was also highest for the individual-specific parcellations. Furthermore, the similarity in the functional parcellations was not explainable by the similarity of macroanatomical properties of the auditory cortex. Together, our results show that auditory areas in STC can be segmented into functional subareas based on functional connectivity. Our findings also suggest that individual-level parcellations capture meaningful idiosyncrasies in auditory cortex organization.
Gnosis as Dissent?
Authors: Dudoignon Stéphane A.
Published: February 2025

Islam in the USSR was long described as resistant to Sovietization, but also as reluctant to dissidence which is much better documented in the European regions of the Soviet Union. Since the turn of the 21st century, however, the publication in Central Asia of previously unknown manuscripts has brought to light the production, through the short 20th century, of a Muslim gnostic poetry of classical form and content, by authors from a small number of mutually linked sacred lineages, transmitters of the Sufi tradition (ritualised Islamic gnosticism). Among the issues that this production raises is the existence of a Muslim ‘underground’ steeped in ascetic tradition, and this underground’s relationship to Soviet culture, which it opposed in a radical way, playing the roles of a focus of resistance to the ‘idolatries’ of the era and of the harbinger of an apocalypse in the present. The present study of two Persian-language Sufi poets, a master and his disciple, active in the Tajik SSR between the 1920s and the 1980s, questions the supposed absence of dissidence in predominantly rural Central Asian societies, which were latecomers to samizdat. It leads us, too, to question the notion of historical change, through a phenomenon of apparent continuity of literary forms and practices, against the peculiar backdrops of Soviet modernisation and post-Soviet nation-building.
3. Fuṣḥā and Zajal Metres
Authors: Haydar Adnan
Published: February 2025

The third chapter delves into the relationship between Fuṣḥā and Zajal meters and establishes how some zajal meters are easily derived from well-known Fuṣḥā meters. A case study analysis of the scansion of an early zajal by Sulaymān al-Ashlūḥī (around 1298) serves as an illustration. The analysis identifies at least three fuṣḥā meters which the Lebanese zajal tradition has utilized: al-rajaz, al-ramal, and al-basīṭ. It sets the stage for subsequent probing in the study about how many other fuṣḥā meters are utilized, how do they scan, are they quantitative, qualitative, syllabic or a combination, what role do stress and music play in them, and what can they tell us about oral vernacular verse in other traditions.
Climate Change Risk Management
Authors: Higgins Paul
Published: February 2025

As a public and policy issue, climate change boils down to four overarching issues: 1) climate is changing; 2) people are causing climate to change; 3) the societal consequences of climate change are highly uncertain but include the potential for serious impacts; and 4) there are numerous policy options for climate change risk management, most of which are well characterized (i.e., have known strengths and weaknesses). These four conclusions are based on comprehensive assessment of scientific understanding and each is the result of multiple independent lines of evidence. The study presented here examines potential policy responses to climate change. It identifies our risk management options and explores their strengths and weaknesses.
New Minds for New Science: The Forecast for Work in the Weather, Water, and Climate Enterprise
Authors: Miller Andy , Higgins Paul
Published: February 2025

Work helps define our lives and the society we live in. The workforce is undergoing a period of rapid change due to a wide range of technological and societal shifts. These drivers of change will touch virtually every professional field and individual career throughout the world over the next 1–3 decades. This AMS Policy Program study examines workforce influences and needs for the weather, water and climate enterprise.
Long-term chronic conditions in individuals with mental and behavioural disorders: A data linkage study
Authors: Lee Crystal Man Ying , Graham-Schmidt Kyran , Chai Kevin EK , Rock Daniel , Robinson Suzanne , Coleman Mathew , Betts Kim S , McEvoy Peter M
Published: February 2025

Objective:

This study aimed to investigate the physical health conditions among health service users in the first year since recorded mental disorder diagnosis in Western Australia.

Methods:

Community mental health, emergency department (ED) and inpatient records of individuals aged ⩾ 18 years with a recorded mental disorder diagnosis in state-funded health services were analysed. We identified long-term physical health conditions recorded within the first year of the first recorded mental disorder diagnosis. Prevalence of physical comorbidity across time was estimated using multinomial logistic regression. Mean number of health service contacts in the first year of the recorded mental disorder diagnosis was obtained using generalised linear model.

Results:

Altogether, 253,362 individuals were included. Within the first year of the first recorded mental disorder, the prevalence of at least one physical comorbidity ranged from 20.0% in 2006 to 14.5% in 2020. Cardiovascular disease was the most common comorbidity, but the most common combinations of comorbidities became more varied over time. The number of ED and inpatient contacts were higher in subgroups with a higher number of physical comorbidities (ED contacts: 2.4 [95% confidence intervals: 2.4, 2.4] for no comorbidities to 3.6 [3.4, 3.8] for ⩾ 3 comorbidities; inpatient contacts: 2.6 [2.6, 2.7] for no comorbidities to 4.5 [4.1, 4.9] for ⩾ 3 comorbidities).

Conclusion:

With a substantial proportion of individuals with mental disorders already having physical comorbidities on their first year of contact with state-funded health services, and the comorbidity combinations becoming more diverse, there is a need to implement more comprehensive joint mental and physical health services.
EXPRESS: Authenticity in Influencer Marketing: How Can Influencers and Brands Work Together to Build and Maintain Influencer Authenticity?
Authors: Duffek Barbara , Eisingerich Andreas B. , Merlo Omar , Lee Guan
Published: February 2025

This study examines how different stakeholders perceive influencer authenticity, revealing the misalignments that arise when each group prioritizes different aspects of authenticity. In doing so, the authors generate new theory on influencer marketing and provide managerial insights for brands and agencies to collaborate effectively with influencers to resolve these misalignments and ultimately build and sustain influencer authenticity. Using exploratory, in-depth interviews with consumers, influencers, brand managers, and influencer marketing agencies, the study triangulates stakeholder perspectives on influencer authenticity. Specifically, it examines the misalignment among these groups through the lens of assemblage theory and explores how these misalignments may be resolved to produce successful and lasting influencer assemblages. Finally, it explores how influencer marketing agencies can help manage authenticity misalignments.
EXPRESS: Sales Pipeline Technology: Automated Lead Nurturing
Authors: Habel Johannes , Hartmann Nathaniel N. , Wiseman Phillip , Ahearne Michael J. , Vaid Shashank
Published: February 2025

Many business-to-business sales firms use automated lead nurturing (ALN) systems, which track leads’ online behavior and nurture them through personalized content. ALN software providers claim that ALN improves lead conversion, but whether this benefit materializes is unclear. Therefore, this research examines ALN’s effect across one qualitative and three quantitative studies. The findings indicate that ALN can provide valuable information to both sellers and leads and thereby improve the quality of salesperson–lead interactions, which in turn drives lead conversion. On average, ALN increases the probability of lead conversion between 0 (Studies 1, 3) and 23 (Study 2) percentage points. However, these effects strongly depend on a lead’s sales cycle length, expected sales volume, and preexisting relationship with the seller. Thereby, this article conducts the first rigorous “fact check” of ALN and provides evidence that understanding the effect of ALN requires a contingency view. The findings also call on practitioners to change their current practices related to ALN. Rather than accepting industry claims at face value, practitioners should verify whether ALN improves lead conversion in their specific context. Furthermore, they should employ ALN particularly for leads where information asymmetry persists and is unlikely to be resolved through other, more costly means.
Comparative study between unilateral and bilateral extrapedicular approaches for osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures: A retrospective study
Authors: Zhao Xuequan , Han Xixi , Li Chenxu , Han Baoguo , Zhu Tianjiao , Shi Yuxue , Liu Qinglei , Zhang Yafeng
Published: February 2025

Objective

Percutaneous vertebroplasty (PVP) is a primary treatment for osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures (OVCF). Historically, surgeons preferred a bilateral approach for PVP; however, this approach may impose greater financial strain on patients. This retrospective study examines the efficacy of the unilateral approach compared to the bilateral approach.

Methods

A total of193 patients were categorized into Group A (unilaterally extrapedicular approach) and Group B (bilateral approach) based on the operative method. Efficacy was evaluated using perioperative indicators, follow-up results, and imaging evaluation results.

Results

Out of the 193 patients involved, 169 were eligible for analysis. All patients completed follow-up visits lasting 49–70 months. Compared to Group B, Group A exhibited significantly shorter operation time, puncture duration, amount of bone cement injected, and number of X-ray fluoroscopies ( P < 0.05). While initial pain reduction, as measured by the visual analog scale and Oswestry Disability Index scores, was lower in Group A, the difference between the groups narrowed by the final follow-up. At the final imaging follow-up, no statistically significant differences were observed between the two groups regarding the relative height of the injured vertebral bodies and local Cobb angle measurements.

Conclusions

This technique holds the potential for accelerated patient rehabilitation and reduced hospitalization expenses, presenting a promising treatment option for OVCF patients.
Mobilization of mission trips: The case of northbound Catholics in Hong Kong
Authors: MOK Chit Wai John
Published: February 2025

China’s ‘reform and opening-up’ in 1978 offered new but uncertain opportunities for people in Hong Kong, then a British colony, to travel northward to mainland China. Many were to contribute to the country’s economic revival. Understudied was a group of Catholics who capitalized on the new situation to reconnect the Church on the mainland with the universal Catholic Church. What motivated these ‘northbound Catholics’ to repeatedly embark on such short-term mission trips? This article adopts the additive model of demand and supply developed by the social movement scholar Bert Klandermans to examine why and how these religious practitioners were recruited. Based on in-depth interviews and archival research, this article shows that identity, ideology, and instrumentality on both the demand and supply sides were essential during the process. The findings suggest that the study of religious actions could benefit from social movement studies.
The Veering Tendency of Blind Pedestrians: An Analysis of the Problem and Literature Review
Authors: Guth D. , LaDuke R.
Published: February 2025

This article discusses the implications of veering for blind pedestrians, information and methods for averting veering, and relevant research from 1983 to the present. The authors suggest that researchers should use dependent variables that better reflect the spatial characteristics of the “tendency to veer.”
The soft power cost of COVID-19 in OECD countries: a lose–lose outcome for China and the United States
Authors: Thomas Jacob Richard , Liang Lemeng , Sonoda Shigeto , Xie Yu
Published: February 2025

One way in which many scholars of public opinion have operationalized a country’s soft power abroad is to measure how favorably that country is viewed by people in foreign countries. While earlier research has demonstrated the mechanisms and factors correlated with how foreigners perceive a country, much less is known about how sudden and unexpected global events may impact how favorably citizens of different countries view another country. Analyzing recent Pew Global Attitudes Survey data, we assess how the COVID-19 pandemic changed public opinions of China and the United States—with Russia as a reference—in 12 OECD countries. Our analysis reveals that COVID-19 led to a decline in favorability toward both the US and China—the ‘soft power cost’ of COVID-19. While the cost is larger for China than for the US in most countries, we observe exceptions in Germany, Italy, and South Korea. We also explore the heterogeneity of the soft power cost by respondents’ individual attributes and other attitudes such as how COVID-19 impacted their lives.
A Cadaveric Study of the Sagittal Patellar Insertion of the Medial Patellofemoral Ligament in Children: Implications for Reconstruction
Authors: Alayleh Amin , Hollyer Ian , Johnstone Thomas , Khoo Bryan , Obilo Chiamaka , McFarlane Kelly , Baird Wills , Chan Calvin , Tompkins Marc , Ellis Henry , Schmitz Matthew , Yen Yi-Meng , Ganley Theodore , Sherman Seth L. , Shea Kevin G.
Published: February 2025

Background:

Patellofemoral instability is a common problem, and medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) reconstruction is a standard treatment approach for recurrent instability. The accurate restoration of anatomy in MPFL reconstruction is essential. While coronal-plane anatomy of the MPFL patellar insertion has been previously reported, sagittal-plane anatomy has not been widely studied.

Purpose:

To evaluate the sagittal patellar insertion of the MPFL in pediatric specimens to guide future anatomic reconstruction.

Study Design:

Descriptive laboratory study.

Methods:

A total of 11 pediatric cadaveric knee specimens were dissected. The patella and sagittal MPFL insertion were evaluated. The maximal anterior-posterior patellar width, distance from the posterior patella to the posterior MPFL insertion, distance from the medial patellar articular cartilage edge to the MPFL insertion, maximal MPFL thickness, and distance from the anterior MPFL insertion to the anterior patella were measured. The proportion of patellar coverage by the sagittal MPFL insertion footprint was calculated.

Results:

The pediatric knee specimens had a mean age of 9.3 ± 1.4 years (range, 6-11 years). The mean maximal transverse patellar width was 19.0 ± 2.7 mm (range, 13.7-22.7 mm). The mean posterior patella–to–posterior MPFL distance was 10.5 ± 1.6 mm (range, 7.7-12.6 mm). The mean patellar articular cartilage edge–to–MPFL distance was 2.3 ± 0.6 mm (range, 1.5-3.5 mm). The mean maximal MPFL thickness was 4.0 ± 0.9 mm (range, 2.6-5.5 mm). The mean anterior MPFL–to–anterior patella distance was 4.4 ± 1.1 mm (range, 2.6-5.8 mm). The sagittal MPFL insertion footprint spanned a mean of 21.0% (range, 16.1%-29.7%) of the medial patella.

Conclusion:

This study, utilizing skeletally immature cadaveric specimens, demonstrated that the sagittal MPFL insertion consistently resided in the anterior third of the patella, averaging 21% of the total sagittal patellar width. Additionally, the distance from the MPFL insertion to the medial patellar articular cartilage edge showed minimal variation, representing a consistent intraoperative landmark for MPFL graft placement.

Clinical Relevance:

This research characterized MPFL insertion anatomy on the medial patella in the sagittal plane. This knowledge provides a clear target area for anatomic graft placement during MPFL reconstruction.
“I Am the Minority of the Minority of the Minority, I Can’t Help Thinking About My Brothers”: An Intersectional Approach to Self-Care Strategies Developed by LGBTQIA+ Adolescents and Young People During COVID-19 Quarantine in Brazil
Authors: Zucchi Eliana Miura , Ferraz Dulce , Unsain Ramiro Fernandez , Ferguson Laura , Bauquier Charlotte , Urbano Ayra , Dourado Inês , Préau Marie , Grangeiro Alexandre , Couto Márcia Thereza
Published: February 2025

We aimed to understand how COVID-19 impacted LGBTQIA+ adolescents’ and young people’s well-being and to explore self-care strategies developed by them to address such effects. A qualitative investigation was conducted with adolescents and young people including 39 men who have sex with men and transgender women aged 15–22 years in Brazil. Data collection comprised digital-based diaries and semi-structured interviews and occurred during physical distancing measures. We adopted an iterative thematic analysis from an intersectional lens to examine how participants’ multiple social identities—such as gender, sexuality, race, and class—influenced their self-care practices. The process of reflecting on and adapting to COVID-19-related restrictions prompted participants to recognize experiences that impacted their well-being throughout their lives, such as stigma, discrimination, and violence. Social class emerged as the primary factor in social differentiation, rather than race, leading to varied effects of the pandemic on participants’ lives. In their quest for a sense of wholeness, participants became more critical of their relationships, often choosing to end toxic and abusive connections while seeking new sources of social support as a key strategy for protecting their well-being. Transgender participants noted that certain aesthetics within the transgender community could be oppressive rather than emancipatory. Engaging with new social media circles and participating in volunteer work were important forms of community engagement, particularly among Black participants. Future research on the long-term effects of COVID-19 on the well-being of adolescents should prioritize articulating structural drivers of inequality in qualitative health research.
Medical Toxicology Considerations for Space Exploration
Authors: Shafer Sarah , Schaffer David , Anderson Grant , Antonsen Erik
Published: February 2025

Spaceflight poses many risks to human health. Toxic exposures from inadvertent release of vehicle or payload chemicals and materials used in the operations of spaceflight are unique among them. There is a need for identification and development of clinical protocols for the management of toxic exposures before, during, and after spaceflight, particularly for acute exposures, because these events are likely to occur in austere environments with limited resources. The need for publicly available protocols is gaining importance as commercial spaceflight operations advance, and future spaceflight missions will require independence from Earth. This paper reviews the publicly available literature on toxic exposures in spaceflight to inform the development of relevant clinical practice guidelines. We performed a focused literature review and identified significant aerospace toxicologic incidents, including fatalities, injuries, and near-miss events. Sources included NASA-published literature, NASA safety reviews, published case reports, and published review articles. Searches were performed using the NASA Technical Reports Server, Google Scholar, and PubMed, and we included all cases involving exposure or potential exposure to an agent that could cause acute toxicity in spaceflight missions. Thirty-four cases were identified involving agents that can cause acute toxic effects. The two most common agents identified in acute toxicologic exposures in spaceflight operations were hydrazine and ammonia. These incidents can help us identify high-risk exposures so that we can develop protocols for the detection and management of future toxic exposures.
Split nationality households: A strategic response to optimise the citizenship constellations of transnational families
Authors: Stevens Catriona
Published: February 2025

This paper explores the citizenship choices of Chinese migrants in Australia who must evaluate the relative benefits of Australian versus Chinese legal citizenship. Given the insecurities inherent in non-citizen status in either country, many families decide some members will take Australian citizenship while others retain Chinese citizenship in combination with Australian permanent residency. Forming these split nationality households aims to optimise the benefits and limit risk across all jurisdictions, attempting to exert control over personal circumstances and manage feelings of fear and anxiety in the face of unpredictable national policies and broader geopolitical instability. The paper extends Bauböck's concept of citizenship constellations beyond a consideration of the individual as the unit of analysis to include a more complex network of family memberships. This expanded analysis of how webs of complementary and/or competing rights and obligations act on individuals within their family relations has application beyond these specific and situated cases and can improve our understanding of how migrants interpret the value of local, state, national and supranational memberships in various global contexts.
Gendered Effect of Well-Being on Likelihood of Violence in Northern Irish Adolescents
Authors: Ryan Megan , Walsh Colm
Published: February 2025

Recent research demonstrates a rise in female-related violence. Associations between mental health and violence are well established, but the gender-specific impact remains under-evaluated. We explored how gender and well-being interact to affect likelihood of violence in a Northern Irish youth sample. A survey conducted as part of a wider evaluation asked respondents ( N = 125) their gender, self-reported well-being, and likelihood of violence. Results showed a moderating effect of gender. Higher well-being was linked to higher likelihood for violence for females, with no effects for males. This supports previous research and implies a gender-neutral approach may not reduce the risk of violence.
Carboxylesterase 4A Inhibits the Malignant Biological Behavior of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma via the PI3K/AKT Pathway
Authors: Chen Qiaoli , Hao Quanxiang , Yang Yanping , Li Limei , Li Danping , Zhao Ran , Wei Wanqi , Deng Lixian , Su Jiaming , Liang Ziyuan , Tang Shiyue , Lu Yaomin , Liang Yushan , Zhang Zhe , Zhou Xiaoying , Xiao Xue , Li Ping , Huang Yi , Zhao Weilin
Published: February 2025

Background

Carboxylesterase 4A (CES4A) belongs to the member of the carboxylesterase family, yet there has been limited research into its malignant biological behavior in malignant tumors. Here, we aim to investigate the expression, cellular biological functions, and the potential underlying mechanism of CES4A in nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC).

Method

A standardized mean difference (SMD) analysis was used to analyze the dysregulation of CES4A based on the gene expression omnibus (GEO) database. qRT-PCR and immunohistochemical staining (IHC) were used to identify the mRNA and protein levels of CES4A in NPC cell lines and tissues, respectively. CCK-8, colony formation, wound healing and transwell assays were utilized to estimate cellular growth and metastasis, respectively. Western blot was conducted to evaluate the activity of PI3K/AKT signaling pathway.

Result

Both mRNA and protein expression of CES4A was significantly diminished both in NPC cell lines and primary tumor tissues. Ectopic expression of CES4A restrains the proliferation, colony formation, migration and invasion of NPC. Additionally, KEGG analysis based on GEO data and high-throughput transcriptome sequencing of cell lines all strongly suggested that CES4A was involved in regulating phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (AKT) signaling pathway. It was observed that AKT and phosphorylated AKT were remarkably reduced in CES4A overexpressing NPC cells, indicating that PI3K/AKT signaling pathway is hindered by CES4A.

Conclusion

CES4A expression is silenced in NPC, functioning as a tumor suppressor by negatively modulating the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway.