bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring waste heat recovery in hydrogen internal combustion engine buses for absorption air conditioning
Authors: Li Zhiyong , Hou Jingxin
Published: February 2025

This paper presents the recovery of waste heat in hydrogen internal combustion engine (ICE) buses for absorption air conditioning, specifically through the integration of a double-effect lithium bromide absorption cooling system. The study reveals significant potential for effectively harnessing waste heat to meet cabin cooling demands. An energy balance analysis indicates that the waste heat generated by hydrogen ICE buses can adequately satisfy cooling load requirements when ambient temperatures are below 34°C, and remains capable of addressing over 80% of the cooling demand as temperatures rise between 35°C and 40°C, with a decrease in system coverage of approximately 4% for each 1°C increase in ambient temperature. Additionally, large buses exhibit superior energy efficiency compared to their medium-sized buses. To address onboard space limitations, a split lithium bromide absorption cooling system is proposed, featuring a rooftop cooling tower and compact integration of essential components within the bus. This configuration minimizes disruption to passenger space while maintaining system efficacy. The case study further demonstrates that the system can be implemented in large buses without compromising spatial efficiency, achieving a well-balanced combination of operational performance and passenger comfort while remaining compatible with urban transport and operational constraints.
Numerical investigation on the dry low NOx of hydrogen combustion
Authors: Tamang Sajan , Park Heesung
Published: February 2025

Globally, energy is predominantly generated through the combustion of fossil fuels. However, the emissions from these fuels severely impact the ecological balance and environment. As a result, there is a growing emphasis on clean and renewable energy sources as alternatives. Hydrogen is a promising and clean energy source for gas turbines, transportation, and industrial applications. Nevertheless, due to significant differences in hydrogen’s thermophysical properties, it cannot be directly integrated into conventional combustion systems. Therefore, a specialized micromix combustion model must be developed to achieve stable combustion with low dry NOx emissions. In this study, a novel micromix combustor is developed based on the cross-flow mixing of air and injected hydrogen fuel. Under this concept, hydrogen combustion occurs through diffusion-type flames, with the reaction taking place in a very short time. This micromix combustor design ensures inherently stable combustion, resistant to flashback while maintaining low dry NOx emissions. The results indicate that the stability of the flame structure and thermal NOx emissions are controlled by the operating equivalence ratios. A stable hydrogen flame was particularly formed in the shear regions between the two vortices. Thermal NOx generation was strongly influenced by the flame front temperature, with measurements ranging from approximately 0.66 to 11.14 ppm (at 15% oxygen concentration). Consequently, thermal NOx emissions increased by up to 16 times under an equivalence ratio of 0.5.
State of Health Prediction for Lithium-Ion Battery Pack Using a Shared Embedding Layer-Based Quantum Long Short-Term Memory with Transfer Learning
Authors: Wang Fu-Kwun , Kebede Getnet Awoke , Woldegiorgis Bereket Haile
Published: February 2025

In this paper, an approach leveraging a shared embedding layer-based quantum long short-term memory (QLSTM) neural network and transfer learning technique is proposed to enhance the accuracy of lithium-ion battery (LIB) pack degradation predictions. The model is especially applied for lithium-ion battery (LIB) aging prognosis when there is limited real-time training data. The framework integrates various methods, including a shared linear embedding layer, QLSTM algorithm, and sliding window techniques. It employs a QLSTM with embedding layers to compress feature dimensions and make predictions. The model is trained offline using historical pack capacity degradation data from a source domain (LIB1) and then transferred and fine-tuned to a target domain (LIB2). Comparative experiments demonstrate the robustness of the proposed model, with the root mean square errors (RMSEs) of pack LIB capacity predictions consistently below 0.002 as the training data increases. The proposed approach exhibits promising results in improving the accuracy of pack capacity degradation predictions for LIB aging prognosis.
Laser surface modification on titanium bipolar plate for resistance enhancement of bonding interface to thermal and acidic corrosion
Authors: Min Junying , Zhang Xinyi , Lin Jianping , Wan Hailang
Published: February 2025

Adhesive bonding has become one of the joining and sealing technologies for titanium bipolar plates in proton exchange membrane fuel cells. However, the bonding interface of titanium bipolar plates is prone to fracture due to the effect of thermal-acidic environment inside the fuel cell, making it crucial to ensure the service stability of bonding interface. This study applied laser surface modification to addressing this challenge, and further investigated the effect of laser power and overlap ratio on the corrosion resistance of titanium bonding interface under thermal-acidic environment of 80 °C and 5 ppm fluoride ion. It is found that laser surface modification with higher overlap ratio fabricates deeper and denser pits on titanium surface, and with higher laser power generates complex dendritic structures around the pits. These factors effectively inhibit the degradation of bonding interface under corrosion in the thermal-acidic environment. The strength degradation was decreased to 18.9 % with residual strength maintaining above 20 MPa at optimal process parameters of 6 W power and 50 % overlap ratio. Additionally, the study revealed that corrosion temperature significantly affected the strength degradation of untreated joints, while caused negligible effect on the strength degradation of laser-treated joints. Higher temperature accelerated the diffusion of corrosive ions along the untreated interface, whereas the penetration of corrosive ions was prevented by laser-treated interface. Moreover, the dominant role of water was found for the degradation of titanium bonding interface.
Semantic-Based Link Prediction in Dynamic Technology Innovation Networks
Authors: Teng Fei , Sun Yuling , Wang Lu , Liu Jiangfeng
Published: February 2025

Technological innovation networks are essential for advancing technologies and fostering scientific breakthroughs. However, a significant challenge remains in their limited capacity to accurately capture semantic relationships and predict future technological developments. To address this, a dynamic innovation network for the technologies is constructed by integrating the LDA topic model and the word2vec algorithm, allowing for the exploration of its evolving patterns. Then, by optimizing the link prediction algorithm, potential relationships within the network are identified, revealing under-explored technological development directions. The results, focusing on hydrogen energy technology, indicate that technologies focused on enhancing the efficiency and performance of power systems, improving the reliability of hydrogen energy systems, and advancing high-efficiency electrolysis-based hydrogen production and supply systems exhibit sustained research momentum. Notably, high-efficiency electrolysis-based hydrogen production systems have experienced significant growth in research attention in recent years. It is anticipated that future advancements will involve greater integration and relevance of technologies aimed at improving power system efficiency, potentially catalyzing a leap development of hydrogen energy technologies.
Exploring the Aging Dynamics of Lithium-Ion Batteries for Enhanced Lifespan Understanding
Authors: Madani Seyed Saeed , Allard François , Shabeer Yasmin , Fowler Michael , Panchal Satyam , Ziebert Carlos , Mekhilef Saad , Dou Shi Xue , See Khay , Wang Zolu
Published: February 2025

This review examines the aging mechanisms and performance decline of lithium-ion batteries under various conditions, focusing on temperature effects, charge/discharge efficiency, and operational limits. It covers high-temperature aging and its impact on the solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) layer, as well as thermal runaway risks. Low-temperature aging is also discussed, emphasizing reversible capacity loss, increased resistance, and lithium plating. The review addresses degradation from overcharge/over-discharge scenarios and explores coulombic efficiency (CE) degradation and its link to capacity loss. By synthesizing current research, it provides insights into optimizing battery management and enhancing performance.
On the fluxes induced by interacting fields in multiple scattering
Authors: Kalogeropoulos Andreas , Tsitsas Nikolaos
Published: February 2025

Multiple scattering problems involving point-source excitation of lossy media are considered. The sound fluxes induced by the interactions between the scattered fields are analyzed. Theorems connecting interaction intensities (active and reactive) with the Lagrangian densities and the scattering cross sections are established. Physical bounds regarding cross sections ratios are derived, highlighting the contribution of the interaction-induced intensities to the overall intensity. Explicit results for lossless clusters are given. The case of a cluster composed by point-like scatterers is also analyzed.
Global trends in analgesic opioid use in pregnancy: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Brett J , Cesta CE , Gillies MB , Bateman BT , Chan AYL , Cheng MCY , Cho Y , Choi EY , Cohen JM , Donald S , Furu K , Gissler M , Gomes T , Havard A , Hernandez-Diaz S , Hsieh MHC , Huybrechts KF , Karlsson P , Kelty E , Lai ECC , Ledlie S , Wang T , Leinonen MK , Parkin L , Reutfors J , Shin JY , Su CTT , Varney B , Wong ICK , Man KKC , Zoega H
Published: February 2025

Background:

Pain is common during pregnancy yet there are few contemporary studies of opioid utilisation in pregnancy. We aimed to describe prescription analgesic opioid use during pregnancy across four regions: Oceania [New South Wales (Australia), New Zealand], North America [Ontario (Canada), United States (US)], Northern Europe [Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, Sweden, United Kingdom (UK)], and East Asia (Hong Kong, South Korea, Taiwan).

Methods:

We applied a common protocol to population-based data to measure analgesic opioid dispensing or prescriptions during pregnancy prior to birth in 2000-2020. Populations captured included those with public and private insurance in the US, a sample of primary care practices in the UK and whole-of-population cohorts in the remainder. We examined prevalence of use, defined as at least one dispensing or prescribing and estimated trends over time. We described use by sociodemographic- and pregnancy characteristics.

Results:

Among a total of 20,306,228 pregnancies, 1,115,853 (55 per 1000) had at least one analgesic opioid dispensing or prescription, ranging from 4 per 1000 in the UK to 191 per 1000 in the US publicly insured population. We observed the greatest relative decrease in prevalence in Hong Kong (prevalence ratio 0.2; 95% CI 0.1-0.2 between 2005 and 2020) and greatest increase in Iceland (prevalence ratio 4.4; 95% CI 3.7-5.2 between 2004 and 2017). Codeine and tramadol were among the three most prevalent opioids in most populations. In a sensitivity analysis defining opioid use as two or more opioid dispensing or prescribing events, the prevalence of opioid use across populations was 17 per 1000.

Conclusions:

In this large multinational study, we observed wide global variation in prevalence of analgesic opioid use in pregnancy, yet patterns of use by sociodemographic- and pregnancy characteristics were relatively consistent. Analgesic opioid use remained stable or downward trending over time in most, but not all, countries.
Understanding the Process of Integration in Binaural Cochlear Implant Configurations
Authors: Muegge John B. , McMurray Bob
Published: February 2025

Objectives:

Cochlear implant (CI) users with access to hearing in both ears (binaural configurations) tend to perform better in speech perception tasks than users with a single-hearing ear alone. This benefit derives from several sources, but one central contributor may be that binaural hearing allows listeners to integrate content across ears. A substantial literature demonstrates that binaural integration differs between CI users and normal hearing controls. However, there are still questions about the underlying process of this integration. Here, we test both normal-hearing listeners and CI users to examine this process.

Design:

Twenty-three CI users (7 bimodal, 7 bilateral, and 9 single sided deafness CI users) and 28 age-matched normal-hearing listeners completed a dichotic listening task, in which first and second formants from one of four vowels were played to each ear in various configurations: with both formants heard diotically, with one formant heard diotically, or with one formant heard in one ear and the second formant heard in the other (dichotically). Each formant heard alone should provide minimal information for identifying the vowel. Thus, listeners must successfully integrate information from both ears if they are to show good performance in the dichotic condition.

Results:

Normal-hearing listeners showed no noticeable difference in performance when formants were heard diotically or dichotically. CI users showed significantly reduced performance in the dichotic condition relative to when formants were heard diotically. A deeper examination of individual participants suggests that CI users show important variation in their integration process.

Conclusions:

Using a dichotic listening task we provide evidence that while normal-hearing listeners successfully integrate content dichotically, CI users show remarkable differences in how they approach integration. This opens further questions regarding the circumstances in which listeners display different integration profiles and has implications for understanding variation in real-world performance outcomes.
The Role of the Glymphatic System in Cervical Spondylotic Myelopathy
Authors: Zhang Justin K. , Javeed Saad , Greenberg Jacob K. , Yakdan Salim , Noroozi Gilandehi Sama , Shah Lubdha M. , Iyer Rajiv R. , Dailey Andrew T. , Bisson Erica F. , Mahan Mark A. , Mazur Marcus D. , Song Sheng-Kwei , Ray Wilson Z.
Published: February 2025

Study Design:

Prospective cohort study.

Objective:

To provide a primer of the glymphatic system, discuss its potential relevance in evaluating spinal diseases like cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM), and describe possible imaging markers of the glymphatic system derived from advanced diffusion-weighted imaging (dMRI), namely diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) and diffusion basis spectrum imaging (DBSI).

Summary of Background Data:

The glymphatic system is a recently described physiological process that plays an integral role in macroscopic waste clearance in the CNS through cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)-interstitial fluid (ISF) exchange. Chronic spinal cord compression in CSM leads to pathophysiological consequences that theoretically affect the glymphatic system, and advanced dMRI may be well positioned to characterize these changes.

Methods:

This single-center study enrolled participants (control and CSM) from 2018 through 2020. All participants underwent clinical assessments and dMRI, followed by DTI and DBSI analyses, preoperatively and 2 years postoperatively. CSF flow was characterized by DTI-derived apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) and ISF flow by DBSI-derived extra-axonal axial diffusivity (EA-AD) and radial diffusivity (EA-RD). Imaging parameters were compared among participants.

Results:

Forty-two patients with CSM ﻿[23 (55%) mild, 9 (24%) moderate, 10 (21%) severe] and 20 control patients were included. Preoperatively, ADC was significantly lower in CSM (2.59±0.4 µm2/ms) than control (3.08±0.34 µm2/ms) patients (P<0.01). Conversely, EA-AD and EA-RD were significantly higher in CSM (2.53±0.33; 0.48±0.13 µm2/ms) compared with control (2.27±0.2; 0.40±0.04 µm2/ms) patients (both P<0.01). Two years postoperatively, only EA-RD significantly decreased for CSM patients (Δ-0.04±0.12 µm2/ms, P<0.01). More severe CSM preoperatively was associated with lower baseline ADC (ρ=0.49, P<0.001) and higher baseline EA-RD (ρ=−0.35, P=0.005).

Conclusions:

The pathophysiology of CSM may affect the glymphatic system because of chronic spinal cord compression that decreases CSF bulk flow, leading to compensatory increases in ISF flow. Although research in this topic remains nascent, greater glymphatic system function observed on ﻿dMRI may correspond with greater disease burden. Future studies examining the role of the glymphatic system in spinal cord pathology are critical to better understanding how these noninvasive imaging biomarkers can improve patient outcomes in CSM.

Level of Evidence:

Level II.
A Multimodal Intervention to Increase Total Mesorectal Excision Grading for Rectal Cancer in Michigan: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Vu Joceline V. , Kanters Arielle , Berho Mariana , Rivard Samantha , Sinco Brandy , Singh Kushal , Duby Ashley , Banerjee Mousumi , Hendren Samantha
Published: February 2025

BACKGROUND:

The total mesorectal excision technique is associated with improved outcomes for rectal cancer, and grading the total mesorectal excision specimen is recommended. We implemented a multimodal intervention in Michigan Surgical Quality Collaborative hospitals to increase total mesorectal excision grading.

OBJECTIVE:

To compare total mesorectal excision grading rates over time between hospitals that received the intervention early and late in the study.

DESIGN:

Stepped wedge randomized controlled trial with hospitals randomized to receive the education intervention early in the trial or one year later. We used a generalized linear mixed model to compare rates of total mesorectal excision grading over time between groups, adjusting for hospital characteristics.

SETTING:

Twelve hospitals within the Michigan Surgical Quality Collaborative.

PATIENTS:

Adult patients undergoing total mesorectal excision for rectal cancer from 2014 to 2021.

INTERVENTION:

A multimodal educational intervention consisting of a webinar about total mesorectal excision grading, a pre- and post-webinar quiz, and site visits.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES:

Total mesorectal excision grading rate for each hospital over time.

RESULTS:

From 2014 to 2021, 560 patients underwent total mesorectal excision in participating hospitals, 350 at early intervention hospitals and 210 in late intervention hospitals. The early intervention began August 2018, and the late intervention began June 2019. Based on the mixed model, grading in early hospitals increased from 8.1% to 99.7% at the end of the study (p < 0.001). In the late group, grading increased from 47.8% to 94.0% (p < 0.001). The intervention was not associated with a change in total mesorectal excision grading in either group; rather, the increase in grading corresponded with a statewide collaborative presentation on this topic in December 2016.

LIMITATIONS:

Selection bias, as hospitals recruited to participate were already participating in colorectal cancer quality improvement and may reflect greater commitment to high-quality rectal cancer care.

CONCLUSIONS:

Our findings show an increase in total mesorectal excision grading in Michigan from 2014-2021 that preceded the dates of our intervention. These results highlight the importance of accounting for secular trends in measuring healthcare quality improvement interventions. See Video Abstract.
Serum Lenvatinib Concentration Monitoring in a Patient With Thyroid Cancer Exhibiting Hand-Foot Syndrome: A Case Report
Authors: Watanabe Yusuke , Doki Kosuke , Sekine Ikuo , Hara Hisato , Homma Masato
Published: February 2025

Background:

Hand-foot syndrome (HFS) is a common adverse event associated with lenvatinib treatment. Lenvatinib dose adjustment using therapeutic drug monitoring may be beneficial in the management of HFS, as symptoms improve with dose reduction or treatment interruption. The serum lenvatinib levels were monitored in a patient with lenvatinib-induced HFS.

Case presentation:

A 74-year-old woman was administered lenvatinib (24 mg/d) for papillary thyroid cancer. Although lenvatinib was withheld several times owing to the occurrence of HFS, the severity of the HFS was controlled to within grade 1 by reducing the dose to 4 mg/d. The lenvatinib dose was subsequently increased to 8 mg/d owing to the progression of lung metastases, resulting in increased HFS severity. The association between serum lenvatinib levels and the severity of HFS was examined in this case: serum lenvatinib levels were higher in grade 2 HFS than in grade 1 HFS (median 42.1 vs. 22.5 ng/mL; P < 0.05).

Conclusions:

This case's findings suggest that serum lenvatinib concentrations are associated with the severity of lenvatinib-induced HFS and that there may be an overlap between drug concentrations, metastatic suppression, and the grade of HFS.
Integrative Korean medicine treatment without surgery for the management of subacute radiating pain attributed to vertebral artery loop formation: A case report and literature review
Authors: Yun Jung Min , Go Dong Hyun , Lee Sook-Hyun
Published: February 2025

Rationale:

Vertebral artery loop formation (VALF) compresses the adjacent cervical nerve root, resulting in cervical radiculopathy at the affected level. Neurosurgical interventions for anatomical separation are typically employed to relieve the symptoms, regardless of their duration. We herein report the management of the subacute symptoms of a rare case of cervical radiculopathy attributed to VALF using integrative Korean medicine (iKM) treatment without surgery.

Patient concerns:

A 54-year-old male patient presenting with a chief complaint of headache radiating to the posterior cervical and right scapular regions was treated with a 4-day program of inpatient care.

Diagnoses:

Based on the findings of the cervical spine magnetic resonance imaging, the patient was diagnosed with VALF on the right side at the C3/C4 level.

Interventions:

He underwent iKM treatment comprising acupuncture, pharmacopuncture, Chuna therapy, and herbal medicine.

Outcomes:

Significant improvement was noted in the patient’s condition (neck pain Numeric Rating Scale scores of 5, 4, and 1; Neck Disability Index scores of 35.56, 20, and 4; and EuroQol 5-dimension index scores of 0.754, 0.787, and 0.862 at admission, discharge, and the 2-month follow-up, respectively; Patient Global Impression of Change scores of 3 and 1 at discharge and the 2-month follow-up, respectively).

Lessons:

This case report suggests that iKM treatment may be effective for subacute VALF symptoms without requiring surgery.
Circulating cytokines levels and the risk of polycystic ovary syndrome: A Mendelian randomization analysis
Authors: Jiang Yumin , Li Yunqing , Huang Yuhua
Published: February 2025

This study utilized Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis to explore the causal relationship between circulating cytokines and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and to identify potential biomarkers of PCOS mechanisms. Genetic instrumental variables for cytokines were derived from 2 large-scale genome-wide association studies (GWAS) involving 8293 and 14,824 European participants. Summary statistics from a GWAS meta-analysis (10,074 PCOS cases and 103,164 controls of European ancestry) were used in the discovery phase of MR analysis. Replication analysis utilized another GWAS meta-analysis dataset (3609 cases and 229,788 controls). The primary analysis employed the inverse-variance weighted (IVW) method, with secondary methods including constrained maximum likelihood model averaging, weighted median, and weighted mode. Meta-analysis was combined with MR results, while heterogeneity and horizontal pleiotropy were assessed using leave-one-out, MR-Egger intercept test, and Mendelian Randomization Pleiotropy Residual Sum and Outlier. Sensitivity analysis confirmed the robustness of the results. Reverse MR analysis was used to explore the association of PCOS with the identified cytokines. Meta-analysis revealed that increased CCL4 (C-C motif chemokine 4) levels were associated with a higher risk of PCOS (odds ratio [OR] = 1.123, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.056–1.195; P < .001). Decreased PCOS risk was linked to CXCL11 (C-X-C motif chemokine 11, OR = 0.930, 95% CI: 0.890–0.970; IVW-false discovery rate [FDR] P = 4.85 × 10−4) and CD6 (T-cell surface glycoprotein CD6 isoform, OR = 0.730, 95% CI: 0.890–0.970; IVW-FDR P = .008). Sensitivity analysis confirmed the robustness of the findings. MR analysis suggests a potential causal link between alterations in CCL4, CXCL11, CD6, and PCOS risk, highlighting the role of cytokines in PCOS development and progression, warranting further investigation.
Efficacy of triamcinolone acetonide combined with recombinant bovine basic fibroblast growth factor in preventing scar formation after adult circumcision using a stapler device: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Yuan Yang , Zhang Shihao , Hu Dingli , Wang Bing , Li Yunlong
Published: February 2025

Background:

This randomized controlled trial aimed to investigate the potential benefits of local application of triamcinolone acetonide combined with topical recombinant bovine basic fibroblast growth factor in promoting wound healing and reducing scar formation after circumcision using a stapler device.

Methods:

A total of 192 patients with phimosis or redundant prepuce were randomly assigned to either the observation group (n = 96) or the control group (n = 96). Both groups underwent circumcision using a stapler device. Postoperatively, the observation group received wet dressings of 2 mg/mL triamcinolone acetonide solution combined with topical recombinant bovine basic fibroblast growth factor until complete wound healing. The control group received saline wet dressings and standard postoperative wound care. Outcome measures included: postoperative edema, time to resolution of swelling at the incision edges, wound exudate, healing time, staple removal time and rate, scar formation, and patient satisfaction with penile cosmesis.

Results:

The observation group demonstrated significantly faster healing times and lower incidence of edema from the seventh postoperative day compared to the control group (P < .05). Furthermore, the observation group exhibited superior outcomes in terms of complete staple removal time, staple detachment rate, scar hypertrophy, and cosmetic scores using the modified Stony Brook Scar Evaluation Scale (P < .05). Patient satisfaction with penile cosmesis was also significantly higher in the observation group (P < .05).

Conclusion:

This study underscores the principle of “prevention over treatment” in scar management following stapler circumcision. The findings suggest that the combined use of triamcinolone acetonide and recombinant bovine basic fibroblast growth factor may be beneficial in reducing postoperative edema, improving scar formation, and enhancing patient satisfaction. However, further research is warranted to validate these findings, establish optimal treatment protocols, and ultimately assess the long-term efficacy and safety of this combined therapy.
Identification of ferroptosis-related genes in heart tissues of patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
Authors: Huang Fang , Li Shujuan , Zhang Ailei , Zhao Jihuai , Zhang Shaoqiang , Liu Dongwei , Chen Wei
Published: February 2025

Background:

This study aims to investigate the role of ferroptosis in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), a genetic disorder characterized by abnormal thickening of the heart muscle. The objective is to identify differentially expressed genes associated with ferroptosis in HCM and understand the potential molecular mechanisms underlying the disease.

Methods:

Comprehensive genomic analysis was conducted to identify differentially expressed genes associated with ferroptosis in HCM. The analysis focused on TFRC, SCD, SLC2A1, EGR1, GDF15, SNCA, PLIN2, and NQO1 as hub genes regulating ferroptosis. Functional enrichment analysis was performed to uncover their involvement in pathways such as ferroptosis, ubiquinone biosynthesis, and HIF-1 signaling. In addition, immune cell infiltration patterns in HCM were explored, and associations between the hub genes and immune infiltration were identified.

Results:

The analysis revealed TFRC, SCD, SLC2A1, EGR1, GDF15, SNCA, PLIN2, and NQO1 as hub genes involved in the regulation of ferroptosis in HCM. Functional enrichment analysis indicated their contribution to key pathways related to ferroptosis, ubiquinone biosynthesis, and HIF-1 signaling. Furthermore, associations between the hub genes and immune infiltration in HCM were observed.

Conclusion:

This study provides valuable insights into the molecular basis of HCM by identifying differentially expressed genes associated with ferroptosis. The findings suggest potential molecular mechanisms underlying the development of HCM. These findings contribute to a better understanding of HCM and may pave the way for the development of targeted therapies and improved diagnostic approaches for this debilitating cardiac disorder.
Enhanced stroke rehabilitation outcomes through Information-Motivation-Behavioral skills model and Hospital-Community-Family ternary linkage integration: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Xiao Yamei , Xu Xiaomei
Published: February 2025

Background:

Stroke remains a leading cause of disability and mortality globally, necessitating effective rehabilitation strategies to improve patient outcomes. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of specialized routine nursing interventions, nursing interventions based on the Information-Motivation-Behavioral Skills (IMB) model, and nursing interventions combining the IMB model with a hospital-community-family triad model in patients with acute ischemic stroke.

Methods:

A total of 120 patients with acute ischemic stroke were randomly assigned to one of 3 groups: Control Group (specialized routine nursing interventions, n = 40), Experimental Group 1 (IMB model-based interventions, n = 40), and Experimental Group 2 (IMB model combined with hospital-community-family triad, n = 40). Clinical outcomes, including NIHSS scores, medication adherence, and functional exercise adherence, were assessed at discharge and 6 months post-intervention. Patient satisfaction was also evaluated.

Results:

No differences were noted between groups at baseline. Both IMB model-based interventions (Experimental Groups 1 and 2) significantly improved NIHSS scores, medication adherence, and functional exercise adherence compared to the Control Group at both discharge and 6 months post-intervention. The combined intervention (Experimental Group 2) yielded the most pronounced improvements. Patient satisfaction was highest in Experimental Group 2, followed by Experimental Group 1 and the Control Group. These improvements were greater in Experimental Group 2 than Group 1. The adjusted multivariate regression models indicated significant improvements in all measured outcomes for the experimental groups, with lower AIC and BIC values suggesting better model fit.

Conclusion:

Nursing interventions based on the IMB model, particularly when combined with a hospital-community-family triad, significantly enhance clinical outcomes and patient satisfaction in stroke rehabilitation. These findings advocate for the integration of comprehensive, behavior-focused interventions in routine stroke care, addressing critical gaps in current rehabilitation practices. Future research should explore the long-term benefits and broader applicability of these interventions.
A novel TSC2 variant cosegregating with TSC in the family: A case report
Authors: Cao Jianwei , Zeng Chuwen , Shao Longhui , Liu Meiling , Wu Ze’e , Zhang Xiaowen , Liu Mingxing , Zhong Runyu , Zheng Kaijun , Chen Jialong
Published: February 2025

Rationale:

Tuberous sclerosis complex is a multisystem genetic disorder caused by variant of TSC1 or TSC2, which were defined as an independent diagnostic criterion for TSC.

Patient concerns:

We present a novel hereditary variant in a family. The family showed a phenomenon of familial aggregation in the Tuberous sclerosis complex.

Diagnoses:

The proband had the c.3974del (exon 33) (p.Gly1325Alafs*58) loss of heterozygosity frameshift in the TSC2 gene (chr16), which was 1 base deletion on the coding sequence of TSC2, leading to a frameshift mutation. Moreover, the novel variant occurred in the grandchildren (generation 3) also can be detected in the grandparental (generation 1) and parental (generation 2).

Interventions:

The proband had taken antiepileptic drugs (oxcarbazepine [30 mg/(kg·day)], depakine [28 mg/(kg·day)], levetiracetam [38 mg/(kg·day)], and lamotrigine [2 mg/(kg·day)]) and performed a right parietal resection of the epileptic lesion.

Outcomes:

The treatment received by the proband was ineffective.

Lessons:

The novel gene mutation sites to be found provide more research entry points for genetic diagnosis, providing new clinical data for tuberous sclerosis complex research.
Diagnostic accuracy of the Geneva clinical scale for diagnostic prediction of pulmonary embolism in adults aged 18 and older admitted between 2009 and 2020 with suspected pulmonary embolism at a Third-Level Institution in Colombia: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: López-Vega Cristian , Pérez-Garzón Michel , Ortiz-García-Herreros Leonora , Bastidas-Goyes Alirio , Aramendiz-Narvaez Manuel , Ramos-Isaza Estefan , Robayo-Amortegui Henry
Published: February 2025

To assess the overall applicability of the Geneva scale for diagnosing pulmonary embolism in adults aged 18 and older. A retrospective cohort study with diagnostic test analysis was conducted on patients in the emergency department or hospitalized between 2009 and 2020 with suspected pulmonary embolism at a Third-Level Institution in Colombia. Local study. The original and simplified Geneva scores were applied to 1237 subjects aged 18 and older with suspected pulmonary embolism and compared with confirmatory results from pulmonary angiography. All necessary variables for constructing the original and simplified Geneva rules were recorded, and calculations for sensitivity (S), specificity (E), likelihood ratios, and receiver operating characteristic curves were performed. The Geneva original score exhibited an S, E, positive likelihood ratio, negative likelihood ratio, and area under the curve of 60%, 54%, 1.3, 0.728, and 0.506, respectively. The simplified Geneva score showed 59%, 57%, 1.4, 0.7, and 0.546 for S, E, positive likelihood ratio, negative likelihood ratio, and area under the curve, respectively. The use of the original or simplified Geneva score in our population may not be useful for a diagnostic approach to pulmonary embolism. Both scales demonstrate almost negligible discriminatory capacity, necessitating the evaluation of other standardized clinical decision rules to assess the diagnosis and pretest probability of pulmonary thromboembolism.
Adenomyomatosis of distal common bile duct: A case report and systemic review
Authors: Weng Chong-You , Lee Cheng-Hung
Published: February 2025

Rationale:

Adenomyomatosis is a rare benign condition characterized by epithelial proliferation and diverticular formation in the gastrointestinal tract, most commonly affecting the gallbladder. Its occurrence in the bile duct is uncommon but significant, as it can cause biliary obstruction, cholestasis, and abdominal pain—symptoms that closely mimic early-stage cholangiocarcinoma. This overlap creates diagnostic challenges and increases the risk of misdiagnosis and overtreatment, making accurate identification essential.

Patient concerns:

A 54-year-old woman presented with persistent epigastric dull pain. Imaging studies revealed a dilated common bile duct (CBD), raising concerns about biliary pathology.

Diagnoses:

Abdominal computed tomography demonstrated a contrast-enhanced 1.6 cm tumor-like mass in the distal CBD, leading to a presumptive diagnosis of malignancy. Laboratory findings showed an elevated γ-glutamyl transferase level, while other tumor markers were within normal ranges.

Interventions:

Due to the high suspicion of malignancy, the patient underwent a Whipple procedure for both diagnostic and therapeutic purposes.

Outcomes:

Histological examination of the resected specimen surprisingly revealed adenomyomatosis of the CBD, confirming a benign diagnosis. The patient had an uneventful postoperative recovery and was discharged 19 days after surgery.

Lessons:

This case highlights the diagnostic challenge posed by adenomyomatosis of the distal CBD, as its radiological appearance can closely resemble malignancy. Clinicians should be aware of this rare entity to avoid unnecessary aggressive surgical interventions.
Research progress on the application of Shenque acupoint in moxibustion therapy for chronic heart failure: A review
Authors: Lv Ning , Wang Yingqiu , Hu Rui , Yang Yue
Published: February 2025

Because of its special characteristics, Shenque acupoint plays a pivotal role in the operation of human meridians and qi, and moxibustion at the Shenque acupoint is a good prescription for treating all diseases and strengthening the body. In this paper, a review of the research published in recent years on the application of moxibustion at the Shenque acupoint in patients with chronic heart failure (CHF) was carried out, and the authors found that supplementing moxibustion at the Shenque acupoint with conventional Western medical treatment, regardless of whether it is a single point of moxibustion at the Shenque acupoint, with multiple points of moxibustion therapy, or combined with other therapies, has achieved significant results in relieving the clinical symptoms of patients with CHF, improving cardiac function, and improving quality of life. Therefore, the Shenque acupoint has an important position in the selection of moxibustion points for patients with CHF, is easy to locate and convenient to operate, and is worth being widely used in the clinic. However, the related mechanism research has not yet been deepened and focused, and the clinical study still lacks a strict methodological design; therefore, future research prospects are far from reaching.
The effect of abdominal compression device on patients after external hernia repair surgery: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Xiong Binru , Liu Shi
Published: February 2025

Background:

To evaluate the effectiveness of abdominal compression devices after external hernia repair.

Methods:

A search was conducted for randomized controlled trials on the application of abdominal compression devices after abdominal hernia repair surgery in databases such as Cochrane Library, PubMed, EMbase, CNKI, VIP, and Wanfang Data Knowledge Service Platform. The retrieval deadline was from the establishment of the database to November 2024. Two researchers independently assessed the risk of bias of the included studies and extracted relevant data using pre designed tables. RevMan 5.4 software was used for statistical analysis.

Results:

Ten articles were included, with a total of 1081 patients undergoing abdominal hernia repair surgery. The systematic review and meta-analysis results showed no statistically significant difference in the incidence of wound infection (relative risk [RR] = 0.41, P > .05), wound bleeding (RR = 0.56, P > .05), perineal hematoma (RR = 0.93, P > .05), or wound infection (RR = 0.40, P > .05). In terms of pain, subgroup analysis was performed to determine the incidence of wound infection (RR = 0.41), wound bleeding (RR = 0.56, P > .05), perineal hematoma (RR = 0.93, P > .05), and recurrence (RR = 0.70, P > .05) between the compression group and non-compression group. In terms of pain, subgroup analysis showed that the postoperative use of abdominal bands to compress the surgical area could reduce pain (mean difference [MD] = −1.17, P < .01), while the use of sandbags was not recommended, while the use of sandbags to compress the surgical area increased pain (MD = 1.09, P < .01).

Conclusion:

After abdominal hernia repair surgery, the use of abdominal compression devices had no significant effect on reducing the incidence of serum swelling, wound infection, and recurrence compared to the method of removing compression. After abdominal hernia repair surgery, the use of abdominal compression devices had no significant effect on reducing the incidence of serum swelling, wound infection, and recurrence compared to the method of removing compression. Abdominal band compression has a significant effect on reducing pain, whereas sandbag compression can increase pain.
Causal relationship between uterine fibroids and cardiovascular disease: A two-sample Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Cui Jie , Zhao Yue-Chen , She Li-Zhen , Wang Tie-Jun
Published: February 2025

Previous studies have indicated that patients with uterine fibroids (UF) may have an elevated risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD), although the causal relationship between UF and CVD remains unclear. In this Mendelian randomization (MR) study, we aimed to investigate the causal association between genetic susceptibility to UF and the risk of developing CVD. We extracted summary statistics for single nucleotide polymorphisms associated with UF and 5 CVDs from multiple databases for further analysis. First, we used linkage disequilibrium score regression to assess the genetic correlation across the genome. Next, we performed univariate MR (UVMR), and to ensure the robustness of our results, we conducted sensitivity analyses using several methods. Additionally, we applied multivariable MR (MVMR) to adjust for potential confounders. The linkage disequilibrium score regression results showed that there was no genetic correlation between UF and coronary heart disease, myocardial infarction (MI), atrial fibrillation, heart failure, cardioembolic stroke (CES). The UVMR revealed a significant association between UF and CES (OR = 1.113, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.018–1.218, P = .019, P
FDR = .047) and a suggestive causal relationship between UF and MI (OR = 0.943, 95% CI: 0.899–0.989, P = .015, P
FDR = .075). In the MVMR analysis, after adjusting for a range of potential confounders, the causal relationships between UF and both CES (OR = 1.104, 95% CI = 1.012–1.205, P = .027) and MI (OR = 0.935, 95% CI = 0.882–0.992, P = .025) remained significant. Our study found that UF increase the risk of CES but decrease the risk of MI, providing a theoretical basis for further research into the underlying mechanisms.
Study on the mechanism of Jiawei Shoutai Pill in the treatment of diminished ovarian reserve based on network pharmacology
Authors: Lyu Xiaoyue , Shen Chun , Fang Yumin , Zhao Ying
Published: February 2025

Jiawei Shoutai Pill is a traditional Chinese medicine formulation used clinically by physicians to treat diminished ovarian reserve (DOR) with positive outcomes. This study aimed to explore the potential pharmacological mechanisms of Jiawei Shoutai Pill in treating DOR by using network pharmacology methods. The effective compounds from traditional Chinese medicine were collected from the TCMSP, SYMmap, and PubChem, and the corresponding targets were retrieved from PubChem, Swiss Target Prediction, and DrugBank. Additionally, targets for DOR were obtained from GeneCards and Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man databases. Subsequently, multiple networks were constructed and gene enrichment analysis was performed using Cytoscape3.9.0 software. Molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulations were conducted based on previous research results. After screening, 72 active compounds and 292 target genes of Jiawei Shoutai Pill (excluding duplicate target genes) were identified, resulting in 1371 target genes related to the disease. A total of 149 cross-target genes were identified between the drug and disease targets. Kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes and gene ontology analyses emphasized the various gene functions and signaling pathways involved in treating DOR. Further molecular docking and dynamics simulations partially confirmed the practicality of the action Jiawei Shoutai Pill in vivo. The pharmacological effect of the Jiawei Shoutai Pill on DOR may be related to the PI3K–AKT, TNF, and lipopolysaccharide pathways. This study paves the way for further research on the mechanism of action of the Jiawei Shoutai Pill.
Journals with “pain” in their titles: A web of science-based bibliometric analysis
Authors: Chi Shao-Yu , Wu Wei-Ting , Chang Ke-Vin , Özçakar Levent
Published: February 2025

Background:

Pain, a critical symptom prevalent in various diseases and syndromes, has garnered increased attention in recent scientific literature. Bibliometric analyses can offer valuable multi-disciplinary insights into pain. This bibliometric analysis focused on journals with “pain” in their titles.

Methods:

Using the Master Journal List in the Web of Science (WoS) database (up to December 31, 2024), we searched all the journals indexed in Science Citation Index Expanded (SCIE) or Social Sciences Citation Index (SSCI) with “pain” in their titles. For further analyses, we extracted data about the journals including publisher, country, language, frequency, SCIE/SSCI categories, journal impact factor, and citation.

Results:

We identified 19 journals with “pain” in their titles. All the included journals were indexed in SCIE, with Pain Management Nursing also indexed in SSCI. More than half of the journals were published in the United States of America or the United Kingdom, and all were in English. Regarding the SCIE categories, 13 journals were listed in “clinical neurology,” 8 in “anesthesiology,” and 5 in “neurosciences.” From 2018 to 2022, either Pain or Journal of Headache and Pain maintained the highest impact factor. Furthermore, Pain held the record for the most citable articles and reviews and the most total citations in 2022.

Conclusion:

This study is the first bibliometric analysis of journals, rather than articles, in the field of pain. Pain is the most recognized journal in the field, with the highest number of citations and the highest average impact factor. In the future, bibliometric studies should explore other relevant journals without the word “pain” in their titles, in order to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the scientific literature on pain studies.