bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pharmacovigilance Pregnancy Data in a Population of Japanese Patients With Chronic Inflammatory Disease Exposed to Certolizumab Pegol
Authors: Goto Mikako , Saito Shigeru , Scheuerle Angela E. , Yasuda Shinya , Houston Niamh , Kumke Thomas , Lauwerys Bernard , Murashima Atsuko
Published: January 2025

Aim

Uncontrolled chronic inflammatory diseases (CIDs) before, during, and after pregnancy, as well as some CID medications, can increase the risk of impaired fertility in addition to adverse maternal/pregnancy outcomes in women of childbearing age. We report pregnancy outcomes from prospectively reported pregnancies in Japanese women treated with certolizumab pegol (CZP).

Methods

Data from July 2001 to November 2020 on CZP‐exposed pregnancies from the CZP Pharmacovigilance safety database were reviewed. Pregnancy outcomes analyzed included live birth, ectopic pregnancy, abortion (miscarriage or medically indicated/elective), and stillbirth. Congenital anomalies (major and minor), preterm delivery, and low birth weight were also examined.

Results

Among 149 prospective pregnancies with maternal CZP exposure and known outcomes identified in Japanese women, 111/149 (74.5%) involved at least first‐trimester exposure and 53/149 (35.6%) were exposed in all trimesters; 135/149 (90.6%) live births, 12/149 (8.1%) abortions (11 miscarriages, one elective termination), 2/149 (1.3%) stillbirths, no ectopic pregnancies reported. One (0.7%) infant, whose mother had first‐trimester exposure, manifested a minor congenital anomaly (accessory auricle). There were no major congenital anomalies. Among live births, 3/135 (2.2%) were preterm and 10/135 (7.4%) had low birth weight.

Conclusion

The safety profile of CZP in pregnant Japanese women was consistent with published global data.
Inter‐population variations of saccular otolith of Walton's mudskipper (Periophthalmus waltoni) of the Persian Gulf and Gulf of Oman
Authors: Iranmanesh Mahdi , Askari Hesni Majid , Zangiabadi Somaye , Lashkari Mohammadreza
Published: January 2025

Understanding population structure is crucial for predicting species' responses to environmental change and elucidating evolutionary history. This study investigated the population structure of Periophthalmus waltoni in the Persian Gulf and Gulf of Oman using landmark‐based geometric morphometrics (GMM) and discrete wavelet transform (DWT) methods on sagittal otoliths. The objectives were to (i) examine otolith shape variation across different populations and (ii) compare GMM and DWT methods for resolving population differences. Both methods distinguished populations based on general otolith shape, with DWT revealing finer details due to its high accuracy in detecting otolith margins. Interestingly, populations from Sistan‐Baluchestan and Hormozgan, despite geographical separation, showed minimal variation in shape, suggesting environmental factors may influence otolith morphology. Distinct otolith shapes in the Khuzestan population, likely due to geographic isolation, may be influenced by the mangrove forests near Qeshm Island acting as barriers to larval dispersal. This aligns with molecular data and indicates that the relatively young eastern Persian Gulf may also contribute to these differences. Our findings revealed distinct geographical patterns in otolith shape, highlighting the influence of local environmental factors and larval dispersal on population differentiation. These results provide valuable insights into P. waltoni's population structure and evolutionary history, advancing our understanding of its adaptation to the diverse environmental conditions of the Persian Gulf and Oman Sea.
Value‐sensitive design of chatbots in environmental education: Supporting identity, connectedness, well‐being and sustainability
Authors: Nguyen Ha , Nguyen Victoria , Ludovise Sara , Santagata Rossella
Published: January 2025

While offering the potential to support learning interactions, emerging AI applications like Large Language Models (LLMs) come with ethical concerns. Grounding technology design in human values can address AI ethics and ensure adoption. To this end, we apply Value‐Sensitive Design—involving empirical, conceptual and technical investigations—to centre human values in the development and evaluation of LLM‐based chatbots within a high school environmental science curriculum. Representing multiple perspectives and expertise, the chatbots help students refine their causal models of climate change's impact on local marine ecosystems, communities and individuals. We first perform an empirical investigation leveraging participatory design to explore the values that motivate students and educators to engage with the chatbots. Then, we conceptualize the values that emerge from the empirical investigation by grounding them in research in ethical AI design, human values, human‐AI interactions and environmental education. Findings illuminate considerations for the chatbots to support students' identity development, well‐being, human–chatbot relationships and environmental sustainability. We further map the values onto design principles and illustrate how these principles can guide the development and evaluation of the chatbots. Our research demonstrates how to conduct contextual, value‐sensitive inquiries of emergent AI technologies in educational settings.

Practitioner notes

What is already known about this topic

Generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) technologies like Large Language Models (LLMs) can not only support learning, but also raise ethical concerns such as transparency, trust and accountability.

Value‐sensitive design (VSD) presents a systematic approach to centring human values in technology design.

What this paper adds

We apply VSD to design LLM‐based chatbots in environmental education and identify values central to supporting students' learning.

We map the values emerging from the VSD investigations to several stages of GenAI technology development: conceptualization, development and evaluation.

Implications for practice and/or policy

Identity development, well‐being, human–AI relationships and environmental sustainability are key values for designing LLM‐based chatbots in environmental education.

Using educational stakeholders' values to generate design principles and evaluation metrics for learning technologies can promote technology adoption and engagement.
Towards repeated clear‐cutting of boreal forests – a tipping point for biodiversity?
Authors: Lunde Lisa Fagerli , Birkemoe Tone , Sverdrup‐Thygeson Anne , Asplund Johan , Halvorsen Rune , Kjønaas O. Janne , Nordén Jenni , Maurice Sundy , Skrede Inger , Nybakken Line , Kauserud Håvard
Published: January 2025

Boreal forests are important carbon sinks and host a diverse array of species that provide important ecosystem functions. Boreal forests have a long history of intensive forestry, in which even‐aged management with clear‐cutting has been the dominant harvesting practice for the past 50–80 years. As a second cycle of clear‐cutting is emerging, there is an urgent need to examine the effects of repeated clear‐cutting events on biodiversity. Clear‐cutting has led to reduced numbers of old and large trees, decreased volumes of dead wood of varied decay stages and diameters, and altered physical and chemical compositions of soils. The old‐growth boreal forest has been fragmented and considerably reduced. Here, we review short‐ and long‐term (≥50 years) effects of clear‐cutting on boreal forest biodiversity in four key substrates: living trees, dead wood, ground and soil. We then assess landscape‐level changes (habitat fragmentation and edge effects) on this biodiversity. There is evidence for long‐term community changes after clear‐cutting for several taxa: epiphytic lichens; saproxylic fungi, bryophytes and insects; epigeic bryophytes; and soil snails, bacteria, and ectomycorrhizal fungi. Long‐term declines in species richness were found for saproxylic fungi, bryophytes and true flies. However, for the majority of taxa, long‐term effects of clear‐cutting are not well understood. On the landscape level, reduced connectivity to old‐growth forests has negative effects on several species of fungi, lichens, bryophytes and insects, notably among Red‐Listed species. Furthermore, altered microclimate near clear‐cut edges negatively affects epiphytic lichens and epigeic arthropods, implying complex effects of habitat fragmentation. Repeated cycles of clear‐cutting might pose even stronger pressures on boreal forest biodiversity due to continued fragmentation of old‐growth forests and accumulation of extinction debts. Examining the broad effects of forestry on biodiversity across the boreal biome is crucial: (i) to increase our knowledge of long‐term and landscape‐level effects of former clear‐cutting; and (ii) to gain a better understanding of how forestry will affect biodiversity and, subsequently, ecosystem functioning, with repeated cycles of clear‐cutting.
Effects of Altered Haptic Feedback Gain Upon Balance Are Explained by Sensory Conflict Estimation
Authors: Reynolds Raymond F. , Smith Craig P. , Assländer Lorenz
Published: January 2025

Lightly touching a solid object reduces postural sway. Here, we determine the effect of artificially modifying haptic feedback for balance. Participants stood with their eyes closed, lightly gripping a manipulandum that moved synchronously with body sway to systematically enhance or attenuate feedback gain between +2 and −2, corresponding to motion in the same or opposite direction to the body, respectively. This intervention had a systematic effect on postural sway, which exhibited an asymmetric u‐shape function with respect to haptic feedback gain. Sway was minimal around zero gain, corresponding to a static object. Sway increased slightly at gains below −0.25 but increased greatly at gains above +0.25. At +2, it was approximately double that of a no‐touch condition. Mean interaction force between the hand and manipulandum remained < 0.9 N throughout, although it increased slightly at extreme gains. Cross‐correlations between hand force and trunk position were highest during conditions of least sway, suggesting that higher quality haptic feedback is associated with greater sway reduction. We successfully replicated the sway behaviour using a feedback control model that attenuated haptic feedback signals when the discrepancy between haptic and proprioceptive signals reached a threshold. Our findings suggests the CNS can utilise augmented haptic feedback for balance, but only with relatively small changes to natural feedback gain. In healthy volunteers, it offers minimal benefit over a static object. Haptic feedback is therefore optimal when motion is physiologically realistic and subtle enough to be misinterpreted as self‐motion.
Chemical and in vivo analyses of calcium silicate‐based materials in bone and connective tissues
Authors: Janini Ana Cristina Padilha , Pelepenko Lauter Eston , Moraes Brenda Fornazaro , dos Santos Victor Augusto Benedicto , Barros‐Costa Matheus , dos Santos Isabela Alvarenga Maciel , de Souza Batista Fábio Roberto , de Aguiar Silveira Meira Juliana , Matsumoto Mariza Akemi , da Silva Nilvan Alves , Haiter Neto Francisco , Gomes Brenda Paula Figueiredo de Almeida , Marciano Marina Angélica
Published: January 2025

Aim

Calcium silicate‐based cements have been widely used in dentistry mainly due to their physicochemical and biological properties. Commercially available materials use radiopacifiers containing metals (bismuth, tantalum, tungsten and/or zirconium).

To investigate volumetric changes, in vivo biocompatibility and systemic migration from eight commercially available materials, including powder/liquid and ‘ready‐to‐use’ presentations.

Methodology

After characterization, tubes were implanted in healthy Wistar rats' alveolar bone and subcutaneous tissues. Micro‐CT was used to evaluate volumetric change before/after 30 days of implantation. Histological and immunohistochemistry analysis were used to evaluate materials' biocompatibility. After euthanasia, kidney samples were retrieved, acidic digested and evaluated by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP‐MS) for bismuth, tantalum, tungsten and zirconium mass fractions. Statistical analysis compared the results for normality and comparisons adopted a level of significance of 0.05.

Results

Characterization photomicrographs and spectroscopy analysis revealed calcium, silicon and radiopacifiers for tested cements. Volumetric changes after implantation showed higher alteration in subcutaneous tissues than alveolar bone indicating that Biodentine, EndoSequence BC RRM Putty and ProRoot MTA were the most stable materials. Histological analysis found intense inflammation for NeoPUTTY and moderate for the other materials; osteocalcin and osteopontin were positively marked for all materials. Despite its volumetric stability, ProRoot MTA showed a 1000‐fold higher mass fraction of bismuth accumulation and MTA Repair HP a 37‐fold higher tungsten accumulation in kidney samples when compared with the nonexposed controls. All tantalum‐analysed samples indicated a similar mass fraction with the nonexposed controls. Biodentine exhibited a significant lower kidney mass fraction of zirconium accumulation when compared with this control.

Conclusions

Volumetric analysis revealed that Bio‐C Repair, NeoPUTTY and MTA Repair HP presented greater volumetric loss when implanted in the subcutaneous tissue. NeoPUTTY presented more intense inflammatory infiltrate. Systemic migration analysis highlighted the predominance of bismuth in the ProRoot MTA group. These results suggest that endodontic repair cements are affected by their chemical composition, the type of implant tissue and different clinical settings.
An Efficient Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia Screen Framework Based on Multi‐Modal Deep Neural Network
Authors: Wang Qiuming , Huang Tao , Luo Xiaojuan , Luo Xiaoling , Li Xuechen , Cao Ke , Li Defa , Shen Linlin
Published: January 2025

Background

Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is a leading cause of death among pediatric malignancies. Early diagnosis of ALL is crucial for minimizing misdiagnosis, improving survival rates, and ensuring the implementation of precise treatment plans for patients.

Methods

In this study, we propose a multi‐modal deep neural network‐based framework for early and efficient screening of ALL. Both white blood cell (WBC) scattergrams and complete blood count (CBC) are employed for ALL detection. The dataset comprises medical data from 233 patients with ALL, 283 patients with infectious mononucleosis (IM), and 183 healthy controls (HCs).

Results

The combination of CBC data with WBC scattergrams achieved an accuracy of 98.43% in fivefold cross‐validation and a sensitivity of 96.67% in external validation, demonstrating the efficacy of our method. Additionally, the area under the curve (AUC) of this model surpasses 0.99, outperforming well‐trained medical technicians.

Conclusions

To the best of our knowledge, this framework is the first to incorporate WBC scattergrams with CBC data for ALL screening, proving to be an efficient method with enhanced sensitivity and specificity. Integrating this framework into the screening procedure shows promise for improving the early diagnosis of ALL and reducing the burden on medical technicians. The code and dataset are available at https://github.com/cvi‐szu/ALL‐Screening.
Association between self‐stigma and self‐compassion in patients with schizophrenia: A longitudinal study from hospital admission to first follow‐up after discharge
Authors: Toshi Keita , Nakanishi Miharu , Sakai Mai , Yoshii Hatsumi
Published: January 2025

Aim

Self‐stigma is a major factor preventing the recovery of individuals with schizophrenia. Psychosocial interventions can reduce self‐stigma, and mental health nurses may play a crucial role in leading them, but little is known about the modifiable factors that should be targeted. We aimed to investigate the association between self‐stigma and self‐compassion in patients with schizophrenia from admission to the first follow‐up after discharge.

Methods

Twenty‐three patients with schizophrenia were recruited from an acute psychiatric ward in a private psychiatric hospital in Japan. Participants filled out the Japanese versions of the Internalized Stigma of Mental Illness (ISMI) scale, the Self‐Compassion Scale (SCS), and the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS) at the following three time points: 1 month after admission, discharge, and first follow‐up after discharge at outpatient care. We used a linear mixed model to examine the association between self‐stigma, self‐compassion, and the symptoms. In the first model, we used self‐stigma as a dependent variable and included time of assessment and positive and negative symptoms as independent variables. In the second model, we added self‐compassion to the independent variables.

Results

Self‐stigma did not change over time. Regarding the linear mixed model, the first model showed that participants with more positive symptoms tended to report worse self‐stigma (p = .052). The second model showed a significant association between increasing self‐stigma and higher over‐identification (p = .001).

Conclusions

Our results suggest that interventions focusing on over‐identification can reduce self‐stigma. Nurse‐led intervention programs with a focus on over‐identification should be further developed for effectiveness.
Psychological and Social Factors Associated With Reporting Post‐COVID Symptoms Among German Healthcare Workers: A Cross‐Sectional Study
Authors: Schick Valentin , Lieb Marietta , Borho Andrea , Morawa Eva , Geiser Franziska , Beschoner Petra , Jerg‐Bretzke Lucia , Albus Christian , Steudte‐Schmiedgen Susann , Baranowski Andreas M. , Mogwitz Sabine , Erim Yesim
Published: January 2025

Background

Health care workers (HCW) with post‐COVID condition (PCC) are frequently reported to suffer from mental health impairment. Given HCW above‐average risk for mental health, research is necessary and risk factors need to be assessed.

Aim

To compare mental health and health of German HCW with and without PCC and to identify associated psychological and social factors.

Design

Cross‐sectional study.

Method

Overall, 2816 German HCW participated (332 reported PCC). Measures were post‐COVID condition symptom sum score (PCSS), symptoms of depression (Patient Health Questionnaire‐2), anxiety (Generalised Anxiety Disorder‐2) and post‐traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms (Impact of Event Scale‐6), work–family conflict (Work–Family Conflict Scale), social support (ENRICHD Social Support Inventory), sense of coherence (Sense Of Coherence‐3 Scale) and working conditions. Group differences of HCW with and without PCC were investigated. Multiple linear regression analysis was performed for HCW with PCC. PCSS was the dependent variable. Independent variables were a.m. measures and age, gender, occupational group and migration background.

Results

HCW with PCC exhibited higher values, with medium effect sizes, for symptoms of depression, anxiety and PTSD. Small effect sizes were observed for work–family conflict, social support, sense of coherence and working conditions. Higher PCSS scores were associated with higher depression, anxiety, PTSD and work–family conflict levels, lower social support and sense of coherence and migration background. Being a physician was associated with lower PCSS.

Conclusion

Lower mental health, social factors and resources may play a role in reporting severe post‐COVID symptoms. Further research is necessary to investigate these interactions using the biopsychosocial theory.

Implication for the Profession

This study can help to understand PCC in HCW to design adjusted treatments and protect HCW from PCC and minimise their risk of PCC.

Reporting Method

This study complies with the Journal article reporting standards for quantitative research in psychology: The APA Publications and Communications Board task force report (Data S1).

Public Contribution

Caregivers are the sample group.
Association of Burnout and Intention‐To‐Leave the Job With Objective Nursing Workload and Nursing Working Environment: A Cross‐Sectional Study Among Intensive Care Nurses
Authors: Bruyneel Arnaud , Dauvergne Jérôme E. , Bouckaert Nicolas , Caillet Anaelle , Sermeus Walter , Poiroux Laurent , Van den Heede Koen
Published: January 2025

Aim

The objectives of this study were to determine the prevalence of burnout risk and intention‐to‐leave among intensive care unit (ICU) nurses and analyse the association of these with workload and work environment.

Design

A cross‐sectional survey of nurses working in ICUs was conducted in France between 15 January 2024 and 15 April 2024 alongside a longitudinal assessment of workload during the same period.

Methods

ICU nurse workload was assessed using the Nursing Activities Score (NAS). The risk of burnout was assessed using the Maslach Burnout Inventory scale and intention‐to‐leave the hospital was assessed with a binary question. A total of 1271 nurses working in 61 intensive care units completed the questionnaire and 14,134 NAS per patient and 1885 NAS per nurse were included in the study.

Results

The median overall of burnout by hospital site was 64.7% [P25: 53.3–P75: 72.7] for the broad definition and a median of 20.7% [13.3–27.3] of ICU nurses reported an intent‐to‐leave their job. The median overall NAS score per nurse was 135.9% [121.4–156.9] and the prevalence of NAS scores exceeding 100% per nurse was 73.9% [62.8–80.3]. A significant association was found between nurses working in an ICU with a better work environment and all dimensions of burnout as well as the intention‐to‐leave the job. A prevalence in the hospital site of NAS scores exceeding 100% per nurse below the median was associated with a lower burnout (OR = 0.69, 95% CI: 0.50–0.88 for broad definition) and intention‐to‐leave the job (OR = 0.68, 95% CI: 0.50–0.92).

Conclusion

This study found significant associations between burnout and the intention to leave the job for nurses in ICUs, mainly due to a better work environment and, to a lesser extent, a lower workload for nurses.

Implications for the Profession and/or Patient Care

In an era of nurse shortages and absenteeism, it is crucial for institutions to retain their nursing staff. Our results should encourage hospital managers to take action to improve the ICU work environment and keep ICU workloads manageable to decrease burnout and the intention‐to‐leave the job among ICU nurses.

Reporting Method

This article follows the STROBE guidelines for the reporting of cross‐sectional studies.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.
Hysteroscopy combined with laparoscopy in the diagnosis and treatment of omentum majus incarceration secondary to uterine perforation: A case report and literature review
Authors: Li Xiaolin , Hu Jiandong , Li Jing , Tao Zhonge , Qu Quanxin , Li Fenge
Published: January 2025

Cervical dilatation, uterine evacuation, and curettage (D&E&C) are common gynecological procedures for abortion, yet they carry risks of complications such as uterine perforation and intra‐abdominal organ incarceration. Here, we report a rare case of a breastfeeding patient who had an embedded abdominal greater omentum in the anterior wall of the uterus and into the uterine cavity during D&E&C. We used combined hysteroscopic and laparoscopic treatment for this case and successfully removed the embedded greater omentum. Our experience underscores the importance of vigilant intraoperative monitoring and prompt management to prevent serious complications like infection and bowel injury. In conclusion, hysteroscopic and laparoscopic combination treatment can be a preferred approach to avoid serious adverse outcomes for uterus perforation patients who developed omentum majus incarceration.
Environmental Variation Influences Genome Evolution in Hispaniolan Trunk Anoles (Anolis distichus)
Authors: Myers Tanner C. , de Mello Pietro L. H. , Hime Paul M. , Glor Richard E.
Published: January 2025

Environmental variation often drives evolutionary processes like population differentiation, local adaptation and speciation. We used genome‐scale data to investigate the contribution of environmental variation to evolution of the North Caribbean bark anole (Anolis distichus), a widespread common lizard that exhibits impressive phenotypic variation across varying habitats on the island of Hispaniola. We obtained new double‐digest restriction‐associated DNA sequence data (ddRADseq) from nearly 200 individuals and used 53 GIS data layers representing a range of environmental variables. We first asked how environmental variation has contributed to genome‐wide differentiation across Hispaniola. We found that Hispaniola's three major mountain ranges contribute to deep genome‐wide divergence and patterns of migration, that some deeply genomically divergent populations occupy significantly different environments, and that environmental variation is broadly capable of explaining more range‐wide genomic differentiation than geographic distance alone. We then asked whether specific loci exhibit evidence of local adaptation to environmental variation using genotype‐environment association (GEA) methods. We initially identified hundreds of loci broadly distributed across the genome that are significantly correlated with one or more environmental variables, but ultimately found that fewer than 100 of these candidate loci are shared across different GEA methods applied to our entire dataset, and that only 10 candidate loci are shared by independent analyses of two regional subsets of our dataset, suggesting parallel evolution is infrequent. Our study shows that abiotic environmental variation has played a critical role in explaining the evolution and diversity of a widespread and phenotypically diverse Caribbean anole species.
Motor involvement in frontotemporal lobar degeneration with TAR DNA‐binding protein of 43 kDa type C
Authors: Yamashita Rika , Beck Goichi , Shigenobu Kazue , Tarutani Airi , Yonenobu Yuki , Kawai Makiko , Mori Kohji , Tahara Shinichiro , Satake Yuto , Saito Yuko , Morii Eiichi , Hasegawa Masato , Ikeda Manabu , Mochizuki Hideki , Murayama Shigeo
Published: January 2025

The degeneration of pyramidal tracts has been reported in frontotemporal lobar degeneration with TDP‐43 (TAR DNA‐binding protein 43) pathology (FTLD‐TDP) type C. Herein, we examined the detailed pathology of the primary motor area and pyramidal tracts in the central nervous system in four autopsy cases of FTLD‐TDP type C, all of which were diagnosed by neuropathological, biochemical, and genomic analyses. Three patients showed right dominant atrophy of the frontal and temporal lobes, while the other patient showed left dominant atrophy. All four patients showed motor symptoms, and two patients had episodes of repeated aspiration. In the primary motor area, phosphorylated TDP‐43 (p‐TDP‐43) or annexin A11‐immunoreactive long dystrophic neurites were observed in all cases, and neuronophagia of the Betz cells was frequently observed in two of four cases. In the lower motor system, p‐TDP‐43 or annexin A11‐positive dystrophic neurites were detected in the anterior horn of the spinal cord. Immuno‐electron microscopy of the insoluble fraction extracted from all cases showed p‐TDP‐43 or annexin A11‐labelled filaments. In FTLD‐TDP type C, neurodegeneration with TDP and annexin A11 pathology was observed mainly in the upper motor neurons of both patients with right‐ and left predominant temporal atrophy and a short disease duration. Furthermore, a combination of TDP‐43 and annexin A11 pathology was visible in the lower motor neurons, albeit less frequently. In summary, we reported the TDP‐43 and annexin A11‐associated involvement of anterior horn cells of the spinal cord for the first time. The degeneration of the motor system could contribute to dysphagia and aspiration pneumonia at the late stage of FTLD‐TDP type C. Little or no TDP pathology was found in the corticospinal tract, unlike in FTLD‐TDP type B, suggesting the occurrence of secondary degeneration in FTLD‐TDP type C.
A low-frequency broadband ring transducer driven by the flextensional structure
Authors: Xia Xuejian , Lan Yu , Zhou Tianfang
Published: January 2025

The flextensional transducer (FT) is a typical low-frequency transmitting transducer that is capable of high-power operation due to its capacity for displacement amplification. This article uses the structural configuration of the class IV FT as the basis for designing a ring transducer, which is a circular structure comprising a multitude of class IV flextensional structures as well as circular acoustic radiation structures. The flextensional structure drives the circular acoustic radiation structure, which in turn generates sound waves at low frequencies. It concurrently enhances the intensity of the sound source. Moreover, the acoustic radiation structure is designed to operate with two resonances that can be coupled with each other to extend the bandwidth of the transducer. A finite element model of the low-frequency broadband ring transducer was developed, and its structural parameters were optimized to achieve the optimal bandwidth. The optimization of the transducer was followed by the fabrication of its prototype, which was then used to evaluate its underwater acoustic performance. The results of measurements showed that the proposed transducer could successfully couple two modes of vibrations to yield an in-band fluctuation of approximately 12 dB in the range of frequencies of 540 to 1580 Hz.
Complex surface topographic changes from explosive experiments at the Dry Alluvium Geology site, southern Nevada, United States
Authors: Swanson Erika M. , Crawford Brandon M. , Coats Dane E. , Klem Susan M. , Schultz-Fellenz Emily S.
Published: January 2025

Understanding the surface topographic change that results from underground explosions is important for global security. Current techniques to relate the surface change to underground explosion characteristics usually involve assuming the earth has homogenous properties, leading to highly variable interpretations. Here we use an unoccupied aerial platform and a digital single lens reflex camera along with 200+ ground control points surveyed with a real-time kinematic global navigation satellite system to measure the surface topographic change resulting from two underground explosions at the Dry Alluvium Geology site in Yucca Flat, Nevada National Security Site, southern Nevada, United States. We find areas of 5–7 cm of subsidence that are not directly above the explosion source but rather 200–300 m away. For experiment DAG2, this zone is located south and west of the explosion, while for DAG4, there is a zone of subsidence located northeast of the explosion. In addition, late-time measurements show as much as 5 cm of horizontal change without measurable associated vertical change in the weeks following DAG4 but not DAG2. These indicate that the deformation resulting from underground chemical explosions can be very complex and bear little to no resemblance to predictions using half-space models. It is likely the tectonic environment plays a significant role in controlling the surface change, but the details are not fully understood.
Consensus outcomes between health professionals and parents for oral corticosteroids in treating preschool wheeze: a multi-national survey and nominal group technique study
Authors: Lee Bohee , Turner Stephen W , Hine Jasmine , McMurray Ann , Roland Damian , Borland Meredith Louise , Csonka Peter , Grigg Jonathan , Guilbert Theresa W , Jartti Tuomas , Oommen Abraham , Lewis Steff , Cunningham Steve
Published: January 2025

Objective

To obtain priority consensus for outcome measures of oral corticosteroid treatment of preschool wheeze that represent stakeholder groups.

Design

(1) A systematic review to identify a set of outcome measures; (2) an international survey for healthcare professionals (HCPs) and a nominal group meeting with parents; (3) a final consensus nominal group meeting with key HCPs (trial investigators and paediatric emergency medicine clinicians) and the same parent group.

Main outcome measures

Consensus priority of treatment outcome measures, outcome minimal clinically important differences (MCIDs) and level of concerns about adverse effects.

Results

Through an iterative process engaging HCPs and parents, the final consensus on a primary outcome was Wheezing Severity Score (WSS). Secondary outcomes prioritised as a revisit to general practice/emergency department, rehospitalisation, length of hospital stay (LOS), time back to normal, doses of short-acting beta-agonists and additional steroid course. Compared with placebo, clinicians considered the median MCID change in WSS at 4 and 12 hours as 40% (IQR 29–51%) and 50% (37–63%) and 5 hours (4–6 hours) for LOS, and 2 days (2–3 days) for a time back to normal. Parents identified MCIDs which were frequently longer than physiologically observed impacts in trials. Concerns about multiple steroid doses were most prevalent.

Conclusions

Stakeholders prioritised change in WSS as the most favourable outcome measure. Our study demonstrated the potential of parent/patient engagement in co-creating patient research outcomes. Incorporating this result in the design of future clinical research will provide a more holistic assessment of the impact of treatment while ensuring relevant primary research outcomes.
Intimate partner violence help-seeking norms: scale reliability and cross-sectional multilevel associations with intimate partner violence among youth in Nairobi, Kenya
Authors: Williams Anaise , Wood Shannon N. , Thiongo Mary , Gichangi Peter , Devoto Bianca , Bevilacqua Kristin G. , Wamue-Ngare G , Decker Michele R.
Published: January 2025

Objectives

Intimate partner violence (IPV) threatens women’s health and safety. Support services can mitigate the impact, yet few survivors seek services in part due to social norms that discourage use. Little agreement exists on how to measure norms and attitudes related to IPV help-seeking. The objectives were to (1) refine an IPV Help-Seeking Attitudes Scale and examine its psychometric properties, (2) explore differences in attitudes between young men and young women, and (3) examine associations of past 6-month IPV among young women with the scale at the individual level (individual attitudes) and the by-gender community-aggregated averages (community norms) among youth in Nairobi, Kenya.

Design

This cross-sectional, secondary analysis used data from a phone-based survey with a cohort of young men and young women recruited via respondent-driven sampling from April to May 2021. Cross-sectional exploratory factor analysis assessed underlying latent constructs. Multilevel mixed-effects models assessed associations with IPV experience for young women.

Setting and participants

A youth cohort of 586 men and 591 women aged 15–24 years in Nairobi, Kenya.

Primary outcome measure

Past 6-month physical and/or sexual IPV among young women.

Results

The IPV Help-Seeking Attitudes Scale had acceptable internal reliability (Cronbach’s alpha >0.60). IPV prevalence was 17.5%, among whom 21.7% had sought any help for the past 6-month IPV. A one-unit increase in the community aggregate IPV Help-Seeking Attitudes Scale among young women was associated with reduced odds of IPV (aOR: 0.17, 95% CI: 0.03–0.98). However, the individual-level attitudes scale was not associated with IPV nor was the men’s community aggregate scale.

Conclusions

The IPV Help-Seeking Attitudes Scale had adequate psychometric properties. The results suggest that young women living in a community where the norm among women enables IPV response may have a reduced risk of IPV. Community norms change to better enable IPV response among young people may help reduce IPV and increase help-seeking.
Effects of acute aerobic exercise on skeletal muscle and liver glucose metabolism in male rodents with type 1 diabetes
Authors: Camenzuli Justin A. , Sammut Mitchell J. , Tijo Theres , Melling C.W. James
Published: January 2025

Aerobic exercise (AE) is associated with a significant hypoglycemia risk in individuals with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM). However, the mechanisms in the liver and skeletal muscle governing exercise-induced hypoglycemia in T1DM are poorly understood. This study examined the effects of a 60-min bout of AE on hepatic and muscle glucose metabolism in T1DM rats. Nineteen male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into sedentary (SC; n = 5) and T1DM (DSC; n = 14) groups. T1DM rats were subcategorized into pre-exercise (DPRE; n = 6) and post-exercise (DPOST; n = 8). DPOST were sacrificed immediately after 60 min of AE. Results demonstrate that DPOST animals experienced reductions in BG following 30 and 60 min of AE compared to pre-exercise. Both DPRE and DPOST animals exhibited lower hepatic glycogen content, while muscle glycogen did not differ, suggesting impaired glycogenolysis in T1DM. Hepatic glucose-6-phosphatase content, and muscle and hepatic protein kinase B phosphorylation were significantly greater in DPOST animals, suggesting elevated gluconeogenesis and insulin stimulation during exercise. Glycogen phosphorylase activity did not differ between groups. These data suggest that drops in BG during AE in T1DM were due to lower glycogen levels in the liver and muscle and a lack of muscle glycogen utilization; leading to a reliance on gluconeogenesis and BG.
Cross-validation of previously identified marker–trait associations for Sclerotinia stem rot resistance in soybean
Authors: Mugabe Deus , Yoosefzadeh Najafabadi Mohsen , Rajcan Istvan
Published: January 2025

Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) face several design and methodological challenges leading to difficulties in the identification of genuine marker–trait associations (MTAs) for complex traits in crops. A post-GWAS genomic assessment of previously reported MTAs on chromosome (Chr) 2 and Chr 9 for Sclerotinia stem rot (SSR) resistance in soybean was conducted using an independent cross-validation panel of soybean with presumed responses to SSR. Results showed a significantly higher than expected frequency of resistance (R) alleles and a lower-than-expected frequency of susceptible (S) alleles in partially resistant cultivars.
Microfluidic and Computational Tools for Neurodegeneration Studies
Authors: Gomez Kin , Yarmey Victoria R. , Mane Hrishikesh , San-Miguel Adriana
Published: January 2025

Understanding the molecular, cellular, and physiological components of neurodegenerative diseases (NDs) is paramount for developing accurate diagnostics and efficacious therapies. However, the complexity of ND pathology and the limitations associated with conventional analytical methods undermine research. Fortunately, microfluidic technology can facilitate discoveries through improved biomarker quantification, brain organoid culture, and small animal model manipulation. Because this technology can increase experimental throughput and the number of metrics that can be studied in concert, it demands more sophisticated computational tools to process and analyze results. Advanced analytical algorithms and machine learning platforms can address this challenge in data generated from microfluidic systems, but they can also be used outside of devices to discern patterns in genomic, proteomic, anatomical, and cognitive data sets. We discuss these approaches and their potential to expedite research discoveries and improve clinical outcomes through ND characterization, diagnosis, and treatment platforms.
Sex differences in the maximal metabolic steady state of fitness-matched women and men
Authors: Wilkins Brad W. , Fisher Kathleen G. , Flood Emma F. , Heenan Logan J. , Matthews Ian R.
Published: January 2025

When matched for fitness, women have a higher power associated with the heavy-severe domain boundary compared with men, when expressed relative to FFM. This exercise intensity also represents a higher fraction of maximal oxygen uptake for women; suggesting women can sustain a higher relative V̇o2 compared with men. Power at the heavy-severe domain boundary, in both sexes, was lower using muscle oxygenation derived slope methods compared with 3-min all-out determinations.
Is the time to task failure during severe intensity exercise associated with muscle, blood, and respiratory changes?
Authors: Zagatto Alessandro M. , de Poli Rodrigo A.B. , Malta Elvis S. , Fleitas-Paniagua Pablo R. , Diefenthaeler Fernando , Murias Juan M. , Castro Alex
Published: January 2025

Purpose: The study aimed to verify the physiological and metabolic parameters associated with the time to task failure (TTF) during cycling exercise performed within the severe-intensity domain.

Methods: Forty-five healthy and physically active males participated in two independent experiments. In experiment 1, after a graded exercise test, participants underwent constant work rate cycling efforts (CWR) at 115% of peak power output to assess neuromuscular function (Potentiated twitch) pre- and post-exercise. Experiment 2 was similarl to experiment 1, but with physiological (respiratory parameters, energetic pathway contribution) and metabolic parameters in the blood (gasometry and blood lactate responses) and vastus lateralis muscle tissue (target metabolomic analysis, glycogen content, muscle pH and buffering capacity in vitro) measured instead of neuromuscular function.

Results: Experiment 1 evidenced a significant decrease in muscle force with instauration of peripheral fatigability indices and no change in central fatigue indices. Severe-intensity domain exercise in Experiment 2 was accompanied by changes in physiological and metabolic parameters and in blood and muscle parameters. However, the TTF was associated with oxidative contribution (r=0.811, p<0.001), as well as anaerobic capacity (r=0.554, p=0.027), muscle buffering capacity (r=0.792, p=0.035), phosphagen energy contribution (r=0.583, p=0.017), and carnitine changes (r=0.855, p=0.016), but no correlated with electromyographic response, blood acid-base balance, and muscular glycogen content and pH.

Conclusion: TTF during CWR exercise within the severe-intensity domain is likely explained by a combination of interacting mechanisms, with oxidative and phosphagen contributions, and muscle buffering capacity suggested as the main peripherals limiting factors to exercise within this exercise intensity domain.
Table S4 from PHGDH Induction by MAPK Is Essential for Melanoma Formation and Creates an Actionable Metabolic Vulnerability
Authors: Jasani Neel , Xu Xiaonan , Posorske Benjamin , Kim Yumi , Wang Kaizhen , Vera Olga , Tsai Kenneth Y. , DeNicola Gina M. , Karreth Florian A.
Published: January 2025

Table S4
Table S2 from PHGDH Induction by MAPK Is Essential for Melanoma Formation and Creates an Actionable Metabolic Vulnerability
Authors: Jasani Neel , Xu Xiaonan , Posorske Benjamin , Kim Yumi , Wang Kaizhen , Vera Olga , Tsai Kenneth Y. , DeNicola Gina M. , Karreth Florian A.
Published: January 2025

Table S2
Table S1 from PHGDH Induction by MAPK Is Essential for Melanoma Formation and Creates an Actionable Metabolic Vulnerability
Authors: Jasani Neel , Xu Xiaonan , Posorske Benjamin , Kim Yumi , Wang Kaizhen , Vera Olga , Tsai Kenneth Y. , DeNicola Gina M. , Karreth Florian A.
Published: January 2025

Table S1
Supplementary Data from BEEx Is an Open-Source Tool That Evaluates Batch Effects in Medical Images to Enable Multicenter Studies
Authors: Wu Yuxin , Xu Xiongjun , Cheng Yuan , Zhang Xiuming , Liu Fanxi , Li Zhenhui , Hu Lei , Madabhushi Anant , Gao Peng , Liu Zaiyi , Lu Cheng
Published: January 2025

Supplementary materials
Figure S5 from PHGDH Induction by MAPK Is Essential for Melanoma Formation and Creates an Actionable Metabolic Vulnerability
Authors: Jasani Neel , Xu Xiaonan , Posorske Benjamin , Kim Yumi , Wang Kaizhen , Vera Olga , Tsai Kenneth Y. , DeNicola Gina M. , Karreth Florian A.
Published: January 2025

Figure S5
Supplementary Table S3 from The EP3–ZNF488 Axis Promotes Self-Renewal of Glioma Stem-Like Cells to Induce Resistance to Tumor Treating Fields
Authors: Chen Dongjiang , Le Son B. , Manektalia Harshit , Liu Tianyi , Hutchinson Tarun E. , O’Dell Adam , Salhia Bodour , Tran David D.
Published: January 2025

Temporal evolution of complete nSCORE rankings of all master regulators during continuous TTFields treatment in the 3 established GBM cell lines. (Supporting Main Figure 1D-E)
Figure S4 from PHGDH Induction by MAPK Is Essential for Melanoma Formation and Creates an Actionable Metabolic Vulnerability
Authors: Jasani Neel , Xu Xiaonan , Posorske Benjamin , Kim Yumi , Wang Kaizhen , Vera Olga , Tsai Kenneth Y. , DeNicola Gina M. , Karreth Florian A.
Published: January 2025

Figure S4
Figure S3 from PHGDH Induction by MAPK Is Essential for Melanoma Formation and Creates an Actionable Metabolic Vulnerability
Authors: Jasani Neel , Xu Xiaonan , Posorske Benjamin , Kim Yumi , Wang Kaizhen , Vera Olga , Tsai Kenneth Y. , DeNicola Gina M. , Karreth Florian A.
Published: January 2025

Figure S3
Figure S2 from PHGDH Induction by MAPK Is Essential for Melanoma Formation and Creates an Actionable Metabolic Vulnerability
Authors: Jasani Neel , Xu Xiaonan , Posorske Benjamin , Kim Yumi , Wang Kaizhen , Vera Olga , Tsai Kenneth Y. , DeNicola Gina M. , Karreth Florian A.
Published: January 2025

Figure S2
Supplemental Figure S9 from The EP3–ZNF488 Axis Promotes Self-Renewal of Glioma Stem-Like Cells to Induce Resistance to Tumor Treating Fields
Authors: Chen Dongjiang , Le Son B. , Manektalia Harshit , Liu Tianyi , Hutchinson Tarun E. , O’Dell Adam , Salhia Bodour , Tran David D.
Published: January 2025

EP3i re-sensitizes freshly isolated TTFields-resistant GSC to the cytotoxic effects of TTFields as measured by the extreme limiting dilution assay. (Supporting Main Figure 5)
Supplementary Table 8 from FOXR2 Targets LHX6+/DLX+ Neural Lineages to Drive Central Nervous System Neuroblastoma
Authors: Jessa Selin , De Cola Antonella , Chandarana Bhavyaa , McNicholas Michael , Hébert Steven , Ptack Adam , Faury Damien , Tsai Jessica W. , Korshunov Andrey , Phoenix Timothy N. , Ellezam Benjamin , Jones David T.W. , Taylor Michael D. , Bandopadhayay Pratiti , Pathania Manav , Jabado Nada , Kleinman Claudia L.
Published: January 2025

Quantification of expression and detection rate (Pct1) for transcription factors in the normal brain reference datasets.
Supplemental Figure S6 from The EP3–ZNF488 Axis Promotes Self-Renewal of Glioma Stem-Like Cells to Induce Resistance to Tumor Treating Fields
Authors: Chen Dongjiang , Le Son B. , Manektalia Harshit , Liu Tianyi , Hutchinson Tarun E. , O’Dell Adam , Salhia Bodour , Tran David D.
Published: January 2025

Dose optimization of aspirin, L798,106, and DG041. (Supporting Main Figure 2)
Supplemental Figure S3 from The EP3–ZNF488 Axis Promotes Self-Renewal of Glioma Stem-Like Cells to Induce Resistance to Tumor Treating Fields
Authors: Chen Dongjiang , Le Son B. , Manektalia Harshit , Liu Tianyi , Hutchinson Tarun E. , O’Dell Adam , Salhia Bodour , Tran David D.
Published: January 2025

The inflammation hub 1.8 in GBM cells in TTFields-resistant cells. (Supporting Main Figure 1D-E)
Supplementary Table 3 from FOXR2 Targets LHX6+/DLX+ Neural Lineages to Drive Central Nervous System Neuroblastoma
Authors: Jessa Selin , De Cola Antonella , Chandarana Bhavyaa , McNicholas Michael , Hébert Steven , Ptack Adam , Faury Damien , Tsai Jessica W. , Korshunov Andrey , Phoenix Timothy N. , Ellezam Benjamin , Jones David T.W. , Taylor Michael D. , Bandopadhayay Pratiti , Pathania Manav , Jabado Nada , Kleinman Claudia L.
Published: January 2025

Post-alignment quality control for bulk RNAseq data for pediatric brain tumors.
Supplemental Figure S14 from The EP3–ZNF488 Axis Promotes Self-Renewal of Glioma Stem-Like Cells to Induce Resistance to Tumor Treating Fields
Authors: Chen Dongjiang , Le Son B. , Manektalia Harshit , Liu Tianyi , Hutchinson Tarun E. , O’Dell Adam , Salhia Bodour , Tran David D.
Published: January 2025

Effects of TMZ treatment on expression of EP3 and ZN488 and cytotoxicity. (Supporting Main Figure 8B-C)