bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Igf2regulates early postnatal DPP4+preadipocyte pool expansion
Authors: Altun Irem , Walia Safal , Yan Xiaocheng , Singh Inderjeet , Karlina Ruth , Miok Viktorian , Kang Lingru , Ho Diep Vo Khanh , Lutter Dominik , Perrochi Fabiana , Ussar Siegfried
Published: February 2025

Adipose tissue is rapidly expanding early in life. Identifying the queues facilitating this process will advance our understanding of metabolically healthy obesity. Single-cell RNA sequencing revealed compositional differences between pre-wean and adult murine subcutaneous adipose tissue. We identify a dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (Dpp4) positive precursor population in pre-wean mice residing at the reticular interstitium of subcutaneous adipose tissue expressing insulin growth factor 2 (Igf2). We show that IGF2 drives proliferation rather than differentiation in these cells. Moreover, loss ofIgf2inDpp4+progenitor cells promotes adipogenesis. We show that expression ofIgf2at a limited timeframe during development promotes preadipocyte expansion.
How does effective internal communication impact employees’ external whistleblowing intention? The mediating role of the relational psychological contract
Authors: Jin Jie , You Leping
Published: February 2025

Purpose

As less is known about how internal communication can influence employees’ whistleblowing intention, this study aims to explore how participatory communication, organizational listening and organizational responsiveness influence employees’ external whistleblowing intention.

Design/methodology/approach

An online survey was conducted with 657 employees across various industries in the United States.

Findings

The results revealed that participatory communication, organizational listening and organizational responsiveness can fulfill the organization’s relational contract with their employees. As a communication-charged outcome, the fulfillment of employees’ relational psychological contract is associated with a lower intention to blow the whistle externally.

Originality/value

This study is among the first to examine internal communication strategies, namely, participatory communication, organizational listening and organizational responsiveness, as the antecedents of employees’ relational psychological contract and external whistleblowing intention.
Measuring the impact of leadership attributes on employee engagement through psychological empowerment: a study from the pharmaceutical industry
Authors: Rasheed Rizwana , Rashid Aamir , Tunio Muhammad Nawaz , Amirah Noor Aina
Published: February 2025

Purpose

Managers are continuously worried about the engagement of employees in the organization. This research aimed to investigate the employees’ perceptions regarding leadership attributes, which enhance the workers’ psychological empowerment and engagement.

Design/methodology/approach

A sample of 296 employees from three pharmaceutical companies based in Karachi was selected. For hypothesis testing, IBM SPSS AMOS version 24 was used to perform a confirmatory factor analysis and structural equation modelling.

Findings

The outcomes of multiple regression analysis expressed that the attributes of a leader positively influence psychological empowerment and employee engagement. The study found that psychological empowerment partially mediates the relationship between leadership attributes (feedback and delegation) and employee retention. Furthermore, psychological empowerment has no mediation between leadership attributes (empathy) and employee retention.

Originality/value

This study offers a unique contribution by focusing on the relationship between leadership attributes (empathy, delegation and feedback) and employee engagement within the pharmaceutical industry in Karachi, a relatively underexplored context. Psychological empowerment as a partial mediator between leadership attributes and employee retention adds a novel perspective, particularly by revealing that it mediates the impact of delegation and feedback but not empathy. Moreover, this research provides actionable insights for policymakers and operational managers in industries beyond pharmaceuticals, making it valuable for enhancing employee engagement across sectors. Advanced statistical techniques like structural equation modelling and confirmatory factor analysis further reinforce the study’s methodological rigour.
Developing global leadership competence: redefining higher education for interconnected economies
Authors: Bilderback Stephanie , Thompson Chelsae B.
Published: February 2025

Purpose

This paper explores how higher education institutions can redesign curricula to produce globally competitive graduates equipped with critical skills for success in an interconnected workforce. It emphasizes the integration of interdisciplinary learning, global competence and experiential education while positioning leadership development as a central pillar of career readiness.

Design/methodology/approach

The study synthesizes human capital theory, social cognitive career theory and global competence theory to create a framework for equipping students with emotional intelligence, technological proficiency and a global mindset. Using a structured literature review, the paper analyzes stakeholder collaboration strategies and provides actionable recommendations for curriculum redesign and workforce alignment.

Findings

Higher education institutions must move beyond traditional academic models by adopting interdisciplinary approaches, fostering experiential learning and building global partnerships. These strategies help students adapt to dynamic international settings. Stakeholder collaboration and curriculum innovation are critical for ensuring that graduates are prepared to meet the demands of an evolving global economy.

Originality/value

This paper offers a unique contribution by integrating three foundational theories into practical framework that aligns academic preparation with global workforce needs. The proposed framework highlights leadership competence as essential for global adaptability and provides actionable insights for educators, policymakers and industry leaders to bridge academic preparation and workforce demands.
Examining the link between narcissism and perceived inequity: the mediating role of sense of entitlement
Authors: Queiri Abdelbaset , Alhejji Hussain
Published: February 2025

Purpose

This study aims, firstly, to investigate the relationship between narcissism and perceived inequity, and secondly, to explore the mediating role of the sense of entitlement in this relationship.

Design/methodology/approach

A total of 150 local employees in Oman completed self-report questionnaires assessing narcissism, sense of entitlement and perceived inequity. A two-step structural equation modelling approach was used to examine the proposed model. Both procedural and statistical remedies were used to account for common method bias.

Findings

The results of the study indicate a positive relationship between narcissism and the sense of entitlement, both of which contribute to a negative impact on the perception of equity. The study suggests that narcissistic individuals perceive inequity due to an overestimation of their contributions (i.e. entitlement).

Research limitations/implications

This study is limited by its cross-sectional design and self-reported data, which could introduce bias. Additionally, the use of convenience sampling may restrict the generalizability of the findings to the broader population.

Practical implications

Organizations should consider individual personality differences, especially in dealing with narcissistic individuals. It is advisable for organizations to implement structured and formal policies, procedures and processes to improve the perception of equity. This may involve revising reward and promotion systems with clearly defined and transparent criteria. Additionally, managers can engage narcissistic employees through team-based activities and promote collaboration to enhance team dynamics.

Originality/value

This study adds to the existing literature on narcissism by shedding light on the complex relationship between narcissism, sense of entitlement and perceived inequity. It is particularly noteworthy for focusing on the Middle East context, an area that has been understudied in the realm of narcissism research within work environments.
Advertising and keyword selection strategies on Baidu: an empirical analysis
Authors: He Chengping , Ren Jie , Huang Hao
Published: February 2025

Purpose

As the search engine platform, Baidu has already developed keyword advertising as one of its main business scopes, while in-feed advertising is emerging as another intelligent choice for the company. Our purpose is to validate the effectiveness of keyword and retargeted in-feed advertising on offline sales and whether the effectiveness of these two advertising strategies relies on keyword attributes work.

Design/methodology/approach

We utilize data from the ad campaigns of a prominent manufacturer within the machinery and equipment (hereinafter referred to as “the company”) on Baidu. To scrutinize the research hypotheses, we have employed linear regression models. Subsequently, we address potential endogeneity issues and use various techniques to ascertain the reliability of the results.

Findings

Empirical evidence indicates that both keyword and in-feed advertising enhance offline sales. Upon examining the moderating role of keyword attributes (specificity and length), we observe that specific keywords (price and word-of-mouth (WOM)) accelerate the boosting effect of advertising on sales; similarly, the longer the keywords, the more obvious the enhanced impact of advertising on sales. Moreover, the positive influence of specific keywords (price and WOM) on advertising effectiveness is more outstanding when the keywords are longer.

Originality/value

To our knowledge, no empirical investigation has yet to analyze keyword and retargeted in-feed advertising concurrently within the search engine context. Our research is the inaugural work to reveal that they serve as mutual substitutes regarding their impact on sales. Furthermore, this paper pioneers examining the moderating effects exerted by keyword attributes (specificity and length) on the effectiveness of these two ad types. The findings presented herein offer valuable insights into the harmonious coexistence and collaboration among companies, advertisers, users and search engine platforms.
Target ball localization for industrial robots based on binocular stereo vision
Authors: Li Ming , Lu Rongsheng
Published: February 2025

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present a high-precision method for localizing the Target Ball of an industrial robot, using Binocular Stereo Vision (BSV).

Design/methodology/approach

The steps for modeling the kinematics of a flexible robot include three steps. First, the kinematic model was developed, and robot motion tests were conducted, which is multiple sets of static joint angle motions. The kinematic parameters were calibrated based on a laser tracker and BSV, respectively. Second, the dynamics model was developed and operate the robot to perform motions, which is Fourier series excitation trajectories. The dynamics parameters were calibrated. Third, the static joint angles were brought into the dynamics model to calculate the external forces and moments of each joint. The stiffness parameters were calibrated.

Findings

The experimental results show that after calibrating the kinematic parameters of the Target Ball, the Target Ball positioning error approximately 4.597 mm. After calibrating the kinematic parameters of the Spherically Mounted Retro and stiffness parameters, the Target Ball positioning error is reduced from about 6.962 mm to approximately 4.956 mm, which is close to 4.597 mm.

Research limitations/implications

The limitation of the approach is that, kinematic model and dynamics model are both required. Therefore, the high openness degree of robot is required, the robot needs to support path planning functions and joint moment extraction. However, some mature commercial robots do not support this.

Originality/value

In this paper, the stiffness model could effectively replace the calibration of the kinematic parameters of the load.
The dynamics of workplace behavior: psychological capital, mediating effect of team engagement and the moderating influence of team cohesion on organizational citizenship behavior
Authors: Waseem Muhammad
Published: February 2025

Purpose

This investigation endeavors to explore the impact of Psychological Capital (PsyCap) on organizational citizenship behavior (OCB) within the confines of Pakistan’s information technology (IT) sector. It leverages the concepts of team engagement (TE) as a mediating variable and team cohesion (TC) as a moderating variable to investigate the dynamics between these constructs. This study aims to enrich the existing body of literature by offering sophisticated insights into the critical roles played by PsyCap in promoting OCB, viewed through the prisms of TE and TC.

Design/methodology/approach

This scholarly investigation employed a quantitative methodology complemented by a cross-sectional survey encompassing 243 active participants within the IT sector. The research methodology incorporated confirmatory factor analysis and structural equation modeling to rigorously test hypotheses concerning OCB’s pivotal role in Pakistan’s IT industry. The analytical process was greatly enhanced through the application of SPSS software, version 27, and AMOS software, version 23, enabling the construction of a comprehensive structural equation model alongside detailed path analysis. The study adopted a time-lagged data collection strategy to address and minimize the potential distortions introduced by common method bias.

Findings

The investigation outcomes delineate a significant association between the fulfillment of fundamental human necessities and the augmentation of PsyCap, alongside an increase in self-autonomous actions. This, in turn, fosters an improvement in OCB. The discourse within the manuscript accentuates the pivotal role of managerial practices and the work environment in catering to basic needs, thereby facilitating the cultivation of PsyCap resources. Furthermore, the research elucidates that TE serves as a pivotal mediating factor that bridges PsyCap and OCB, highlighting its complementary role in enhancing organizational behavior.

Originality/value

The current inquiry significantly contributes to the existing scholarly discourse by elucidating the dynamics between PsyCap, TE, TC and OCB. Moreover, this study explores TE’s mediating role specifically within the context of Pakistan’s IT sector. By employing the theoretical framework of self-determination theory, this investigation not only deepens the theoretical underpinnings but also furnishes pragmatic insights for IT organizations, thereby marking a notable advancement in the realm of organizational behavior and psychology.
Formulating the Edinburgh Wellbeing Pact: intersectoral practice, innovation and coproduction for health and social care change during and after COVID-19
Authors: Fitzpatrick Linda Irvine , Maciver Donald
Published: February 2025

Purpose

This paper aims to present a case study of the early “formulation” activities that laid the foundation for the Edinburgh Wellbeing Pact, developed during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. The Pact aimed to foster partnership between service providers and citizens to prevent crises, empower individuals to manage their health and independence at home and strengthen the health and social care network in Edinburgh.

Design/methodology/approach

The study involved a retrospective review of documentary data, including reports, meeting notes, reflections and strategy documents. The analysis was led by the programme lead, who played a central role in the design and implementation of the Pact.

Findings

The formulation phase focused on building the Pact’s foundation through dialogues with citizens, staff, communities and stakeholders. It emphasised the development of the Pact’s vision and the establishment of key partnerships. This process was crucial for ensuring collaboration and guiding the transition from ideas to implementation. It led to the creation of key messages for staff, citizens and community partners. The formulation phase also facilitated the transfer of power and resources to citizens and enabled the creation of new funded initiatives, which introduced new service delivery models and strengthened collaboration between public and third sectors.

Originality/value

This case study contributes to understanding innovation in intersectoral practices, co-creation and co-production as strategies for addressing complex health and social care challenges. It provides insights for others engaged in similar initiatives.
What determines learners’ active participation in Metaverse-based learning in an emerging market
Authors: Le Xuan Cu
Published: February 2025

Purpose

The study aims to explicate how Metaverse boosts learners’ cognition, decision confidence and active participation in Metaverse-based learning (MBL).

Design/methodology/approach

A survey is designed with 523 respondents. Structural equation modeling (SEM) is conducted using online data to verify a research model.

Findings

Results demonstrate that Metaverse-related characteristics, namely interactivity, corporeity, persistence, immersion and personalized experience, aid in strengthening learners’ cognitive processing and decision confidence, whilst escapism does not influence decision confidence in MBL. Furthermore, user-related dimensions, including personal innovativeness and perceived trendiness, are the underlying motivations for decision confidence. Additionally, cognitive processing is positively associated with decision confidence, which considerably fosters learners’ active participation in MBL.

Originality/value

Limited studies have been conducted to illuminate a mechanism of cognitive processing, decision confidence and active participation among learners toward MBL in light of the Stimulus-Organism-Response (S-O-R) paradigm. Therefore, a substantial amount of knowledge is supplemented to enlighten whether learners in a developing country may generate their engagement with MBL.
From debt to despair: a meta-analysis of debt burden and suicidal behaviours
Authors: Ali Syahrul Anuar , Md Zabri Mohd Zaidi , Mohd Dasar Mohd Hafiz , Nordin Muhammad Farhan
Published: February 2025

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate the associations between financial debt burden and suicidal behaviours (suicidal ideation, suicidal attempts, death by suicide and attempts or death by suicide). In addition to this, this study considers various influential factors, including cultural distinctions (comparing Western and non-Western countries), work-related stressors (such as the weekly working hours and the percentage of individuals with more than 49 working hours a week), income disparities (evaluating gross domestic product [GDP] and the differences between developed and developing nations) and the potential impact of lifestyle changes (considering the year of data collection).

Design/methodology/approach

This meta-analysis synthesizes findings from 15 studies published from 2010 to 2023 and indexed in the Web of Science’s social sciences citation index and science citation index expanded databases to illuminate these dynamics.

Findings

This study reveals that roughly 12 out of every 100 debtors had suicidal ideation. At the same time, approximately 13 out of every 100 attempted suicides and about 21 out of every 100 individuals burdened by debt died from suicides. A deeper dive into cultural contexts shows that non-Western cultures exhibit higher rates of suicidal behaviours than Western cultures. Notwithstanding, the comparison between developed and developing countries shows no significant differences in suicide behaviour rates.

Research limitations/implications

The data is derived from a single database (Web of Science).

Originality/value

This study used meta-analysis as a method to investigate the associations between financial debt burden and suicidal behaviours.
Unlocking neurodiversity: the role of horizontal differentiation and social cognitive integration as antecedents of team performance
Authors: van Rijswijk Jan , Curseu Petru Lucian , van Oortmerssen Lise A.
Published: February 2025

Purpose

This study aims to test a moderated mediation model of the relationship between neurodiversity and team performance, mediated by social cognitive integration and positively moderated by horizontal cognitive differentiation.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors used neurodiversity survey data from 40 intact organizational teams, including data from all team members and their leaders, and tested the moderated mediation model using bootstrapping. Neurodivergent conditions, horizontal cognitive differentiation (i.e. the distribution of knowledge and expertise among team members, expanding the range of available cognitive resources) and social cognitive integration (i.e. a collaborative process of knowledge sharing, evaluation and elaboration) were evaluated by team members, and team performance was evaluated by the leaders.

Findings

The results show that neurodiversity fosters social cognitive integration in teams only when horizontal cognitive differentiation is high. Moreover, social cognitive integration mediates the association between neurodiversity and team performance, whereas the remaining main effect of neurodiversity on team performance is positive and significant.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the limited body of knowledge that examines neurodiversity in organizational settings and presents one of the first empirical tests of the relation between neurodiversity and team outcomes, building on the combination of cognitive differentiation and integration.
Paper or tablet? Benefits of cognitive training in adults with limited technological knowledge and low educational level
Authors: Chong Espino Yamisel , Sampaio Daniel , Cardoso Susana
Published: February 2025

Purpose

This study aims to analyze the psychological benefits of digital and paper-based cognitive training in users with a lack of technological knowledge and a low level of education.

Design/methodology/approach

In total, 60 individuals (Mage = 78.38; SDage = 9.15) attending a day center were recruited to complete a cognitive training program, 30 of them in digital format. They were all assessed on cognitive skills, technological knowledge and depressive symptomatology before and after the training. Regardless of age, education and technological knowledge, all participants completed the respective cognitive training program.

Findings

The results of this study indicate that it is feasible to use both digital and paper-based tasks in cognitive training for individuals aged over 60, with low levels of education and digital literacy. Although different, in both cases it will be possible to obtain cognitive benefits.

Research limitations/implications

Cognitive training with digital or paper-based material can facilitate visual mnesic processing. Both visual and verbal skills can be trained through other non-digital materials.

Originality/value

This study contributes to understanding the benefits of both types of materials used in working with older people.
A Strategy of Assessing Gene Copy Number Differentiation Between Populations Using Ultra‐Fast De Novo Assembly of Next‐Generation Sequencing Data
Authors: Shi Tao , Gao Zhiyan , Zhang Yue , Rausher Mark D. , Chen Jinming
Published: February 2025

Gene duplication and loss play pivotal roles in the evolutionary dynamics of genomes, contributing to species phenotypic diversity and adaptation. However, detecting copy number variations (CNVs) in homoploid populations and newly‐diverged species using short reads from next‐generation sequencing (NGS) with traditional methods can often be challenging due to uneven read coverage caused by variations in GC content and the presence of repetitive sequences. To address these challenges, we developed a novel pipeline, ST4gCNV, which leverages ultra‐fast de novo assemblies of NGS data to detect gene‐specific CNVs between populations. The pipeline effectively reduces the variance of read coverage due to technical factors such as GC bias, providing a reliable CNV detection with a minimum sequencing depth of 10. We successfully apply ST4gCNV to the resequencing analysis of homoploid species Nelumbo nucifera and Nelumbo lutea (lotus). We reveal significant CNV‐driven differentiation between these species, particularly in genes related to petal colour diversity such as those involved in the anthocyanin pathway. By highlighting the extensive gene duplication and loss events in Nelumbo, our study demonstrates the utility of ST4gCNV in population genomics and underscores its potential of integrating genomic CNV analysis with traditional SNP‐based resequencing analysis.
Implant-prosthetic rehabilitation of an agenesis lateral incisor: a case report and literature review
Authors: Manica Umberto , Izzi Francesca , Palmacci Matteo , Rastelli Sofia , Ceresoli Lara , Balbi Benedetta , Nagni Matteo
Published: February 2025

Aim: The aim of this case-report is to describe the clinical results obtained through immediate-load implant rehabilitation combined with orthodontic and prosthetic therapy.
Materials and Methods: A 35-year-old woman went for an initial examination to the Department of Dentistry and Dental Prosthetics of the Vita-Salute San Raffaele Hospital, directed by Prof. E. F. Gherlone. Intra-oral examination revealed the absence of element 4.2, which was also confirmed by Orthopantomography. Therefore, in order to allow the execution of a correct aesthetic-functional rehabilitation, it was decided to perform a preliminary orthodontic therapy in order to obtain an adequate “uprighting” for the future implant insertion. Once the optimal space had been achieved, surgical therapy was carried out, involving the insertion of an implant and a subsequent prosthetic crown in stratified zirconia.
Results: Follow-up at 18 months after functional loading showed excellent healing, both radiographically and on objective examination, of the involved tissues.
Conclusion: Multidisciplinary clinical management, combined with orthodontic and then implant therapy, allowed the achievement of an optimal and lasting prognostic outcome.
Orthodontic approach in patients with osteogenesis imperfecta
Authors: Izzi Francesca , Frijo Graziano , Romito Myriam , Calugi Benvenuti Clarissa , Izzi Gabriele , Severino Marco , Nagni Matteo
Published: February 2025

This review aims to investigate treatment strategies for patients diagnosed with osteogenesis imperfecta (OI). The article is based on a literature search on websites and scientific journals such as PubMed, the European Journal of Orthodontics, and the American Journal of Orthodontics. Orthodontic treatment has a positive impact on the oral cavity and adjacent structures. Patients with OI can undergo orthodontic treatment since these types of medications do not affect the incidence of osteonecrosis in children and adolescents. Orthognathic treatments in patients with OI who take bisphosphonates are longer, more intricate, and involve slower healing periods compared to treatments in healthy individuals. Indeed, treatment must be tailored based on the patient’s age. Orthodontic treatments are necessary in patients with mixed dentition to facilitate the eruption of slower-developing teeth, such as canines, premolars, and second molars. For adult patients, it is essential to collaborate with the orthopedic doctor and develop comprehensive orthodontic, surgical, and prosthetic treatment plan.
Bi-maxillary rehabilitation using the all-on-four method in patients with hypertension: case report and literature review
Authors: Nagni Matteo , Severino Marco , Cotticelli Ciro , Bussolari Elena , Grechi Camilla , Collina Giorgio , Oddi Carlo
Published: February 2025

Objective: Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are diseases of the circulatory system that affect the anatomy and pathophysiology of the heart and blood vessels; hypertension is one of the most common cardiovascular diseases. This case report aims to illustrate the implant survival rate and marginal bone loss in patients with hypertension undergoing fixed prosthetic rehabilitation, according to the all-on-four method, in both arches, at two years of follow-up.
Materials and methods: The patient, suffering from hypertension, presented with severe diffuse periodontitis in both arches. Requiring a fixed rehabilitation, considering a more severe bone loss in the posterior maxillary and mandibular sectors, we opted for rehabilitation with a reduced number of implants according to the “All-on-Four” method. Follow-up visits were performed one week after surgery, after six months, and once a year for the following period (24 months). Any intra- and postoperative complications were noted so that the patient could be monitored. Every four months after surgery, hygiene maintenance sessions were carried out.
Results: No implants were lost during the follow-up period, and no intra- and postoperative complications were recorded.
Conclusion: By promoting reasonable blood pressure control, implant placement in patients with hypertension could be considered a predictable and safe procedure.
Moreover, constant patient monitoring and adherence to a strict hygiene maintenance protocol could be crucial to promote implant survival
A Pterygoid implants in severe posterior maxillary atrophy: a case report
Authors: Iacomino Enzo , Rastelli Sofia , Capogreco Mario , Severino Marco , Gallottini Sofia Germana , Grivetto Fabrizio
Published: February 2025

A good clinician must be able to make a diagnosis and on the basis of this identify the ideal treatment plans. The choice of treatment plan depends on both the patient's needs and the clinical and anatomical conditions. Therefore, in order to have multiple alternatives it is advisable to enlarge clinical acknowledgement. The placement of pterygoid implants to rehabilitate the posterior maxillae region is little used.  Pterygoid implants are non-traditional dental implants, longer than normal (up to 25mm), which are inserted into the pterygoid process of the sphenoid bone. The pterygoid bone is a very hard and compact bone and guarantees dental implant high primary stability and a safer immediate loading. To obtain a better stability of dental rehabilitation, pterygoid implants can also be used in combination with traditional dental implants and / or zygomatic implants or trans-sinus tilted implants.
This technique is ideal because it has better bone quality than tuber maxillae, the patient can count teeth down to the second molar, immediate loading is possible, treatment times are limited and it is a predictable treatment.
The presentation of this case report aims to highlight how and why it is necessary to consider the option of inserting pterygoid implants as a valid alternative.
Impact of oral surgery, with or without amoxicillin, on the oral microbiome, salivary flow and buffering capacity of saliva
Authors: Memè Lucia , Bambini Fabrizio , Marcattili Domenico , Noudeh J Gholami , Sampalmieri Francesco , Mummolo Stefano
Published: February 2025

In the post-operative period due to tooth extraction operations, antibiotic prophylaxis is not usually recommended. However in more traditional clinical practices the use of amoxicillin continues to represent the most effective factor in preventing bacterial infections. In order to evaluate the effectiveness of such an approach in the dental field, a phase IV, randomized, controlled, single-center double-blind clinical study was conducted, according to the split-mouth design. The investigation concerned only simple tooth extraction operations, in which patients were divided into two groups. Only one of the established groups was prescribed antibiotic therapy.
The evolution of the oral microbiome was thus evaluated, through the count of Streptococcus mutans and Lactobacillus, the salivary flow and the buffering power of the saliva before and after the extraction procedure.
In the antibiotic-treated group, several units reported a significant change in bacterial load, from baseline to seven days and fourteen days after surgery. In the same group, however, no significant changes occurred in the salivary flow and in the buffering capacity of the saliva.
Given the high complexity of the salivary microbiome and its barrier functions for the human organism against attacks by pathogenic microbes, it is considered necessary to promote further studies aimed at investigating the mutations induced by antibiotic therapy, even if the results emerging from the most recent literature highlights the preventative role of prophylaxis in post-extraction complications. However, given the low incidence of infections even in the absence of prophylaxis, it becomes crucial to investigate how the risks of potential antibiotic resistance can compromise the benefits deriving from antibiotic use.
Clinical and radiographical evaluation of two agenesis alveolar ridges of upper lateral incisors. A case report with 5 years follow up
Authors: Botticelli Gianluca , Pizzolante Tommaso , Capogreco Mario , Prata Paolo , Calabrò Paolo , Severino Marco , Testa Giovanni , Rastelli Sofia
Published: February 2025

Besides the functional issues, lateral incisor agenesis represents a significant aesthetic drawback (1).
The decision about the treatment plan is complex due to the long-term success, which is not easy to achieve. It has to be discussed with the orthodontists to choose the closure, using permanent canines to replace the missing teeth, or maintaining the spaces, for example, with Maryland bridges or implants.
The main advantage of orthodontic gap closure is that this approach preserves the natural architecture of the complex and soft tissues. However, canines and premolar sizes and shapes should be adjusted to mimic the replaced teeth, eventually resorting to odontoplasty or veneers (13).
This article aims to show clinical protocols and procedures for the Split Crest without any graft.
The biggest problem in agenesis cases is the thickness of the bone, which is bucco-palatal and associated with the need for proper functional and esthetic rehabilitation.
In the case that we reported, because of the lack of thickness, we performed a minimally invasive split crest, which allowed us to correct the implant insertion with immediate loading by a temporary crown, just for aesthetic reasons.
A step-by-step technical report on the novel 'PREMADE Protocol' for fabricating acrylic provisional prostheses for all-on-4 treatment concept
Authors: Pitino Alberto , Gianfreda Francesco , Dolci Alessandro , Fossati Edoardo , Voghera Gloria , Bollero Patrizio , Gargari Marco , Karimi Dora , Martelli Mirko
Published: February 2025

Background: This technical report describes how to use a prosthetic protocol with a standardized immediate and fixed prosthesis that is the same for all patients. The prosthesis called “PREMADE” is adapted to various arch sizes (narrow, regular, and wide, with uniform teeth in all cases). This aim is to obviate the need for all laboratory procedures following the positioning of the implant.
Case Presentation: This report details the application of the PREMADE protocol in a clinical setting. It illustrates its use in a patient requiring immediate dental implant loading, highlighting the protocol’s step-by-step technical nuances. The case underscores the protocol’s efficiency in reducing laboratory phases and chair time, facilitated by its innovative approach of utilizing a standardized prefabricated arch adaptable to various jaw sizes. The procedure’s success is evident in the minimized patient discomfort and improved osseointegration, attributed to the protocol’s stability and micromotion control.
Conclusions: The PREMADE protocol signifies a transformative advancement in immediate dental implant loading, enhancing procedural efficiency and patient outcomes. Its application demonstrates the potential to reduce procedural complexity and time, thereby improving the patient experience. However, further research is required to establish its universal applicability and to compare it with other immediate loading protocols. The future integration of this protocol in all-on-4 rehabilitation could revolutionize the prosthetic phase, making advanced dental treatments more accessible.
Myofunctional therapy and atypical swallowing multidisciplinary approach
Authors: Martelli Mirko , Russomanno Wanda Lelia , Di Vecchio Stefano , Gargari Marco , Bollero Patrizio , Ottria Liliana , Dolci Alessandro , Gianfreda Francesco
Published: February 2025

Myofunctional therapy offers an innovative approach to correcting orofacial dysfunctions and bad habits. This article describes how myofunctional treatment, in collaboration with various medical specialties, can improve not only orthodontic problems but also other conditions treated by specialists such as Neurologists, Speech Therapists, Osteopaths, Otorhinolaryngologists, Allergists and Pediatricians. This article aims to highlight how the Froggy Mouth, a lightweight and simple device, can offer support and benefits to various specialists across different medical disciplines.
Impact of Roughness Spanwise Wavelength on Secondary Flow Rearrangement
Authors: Yang Jianzhi , Yang Xiang , Liu Luoqin , Zhu Jian , Zhu Xiaowei
Published: February 2025

Spanwise heterogeneity in surface roughness generates secondary mean flows in a rough-wall turbulent boundary layer. This study investigates the influence of roughness spanwise wavelength on the arrangement of these secondary flows using Direct Numerical Simulation (DNS). We systematically vary the spanwise wavelength, S/δ, from π/16 to 2π, while maintaining constant roughness height and surface coverage density. Here, S represents the roughness spanwise wavelength, and δ denotes the outer length scale, which in this case is the half-channel height. Secondary flows are observed in all DNS cases, but their configurations depend on the spanwise wavelength. Specifically, small wavelengths result in low-momentum pathways above the roughness elements, whereas large wavelengths lead to high-momentum pathways at these locations. To elucidate the mechanisms behind this rearrangement, we analyze the mean streamwise vorticity transport equation. The findings indicate that shear stress anisotropy induces another pair of secondary vortices above the roughness elements as the spanwise wavelength increases. Given that secondary flows are features of the mean flow, we further examine the budgets of the dispersive kinetic energy (DKE). The analyses reveal that at small spanwise wavelengths, shear production primarily generates DKE, while at large wavelengths, wake production becomes the dominant energy source. Building on these insights, we propose a refined classification for surfaces with spanwise heterogeneity.
Noncontact SThM Thermal Conductivity Measurements of GeSbTe Thin Films Sputtered on Silicon and Glass Substrates
Authors: Zhang Yun , Choudhary Ankit , Zhu Wenkai , Efstathiadis Harry , Yang Bao , Borca-Tasciuc Theodorian
Published: February 2025

Chalcogenide materials based on germanium–antimony–tellurium (GST) are typically used in phase change memory (PCM) applications. The thermal conductivity of GST films is an important factor in predicting the temperature evolution and the structural alterations of the material in response to rapid thermal transitions inherent in memory operations. While several techniques have been used to determine the thin film thermal conductivity of GSTs, they require fabricating electrical connections for metal heaters or thermometers on test samples. In this paper, we report using a noncontact scanning thermal microscopy (SThM) technique to measure the thermal conductivity of GST thin films while circumventing the need for sample preparation. A Wollaston wire probe of a 5-μm diameter was used as a Joule-heated thermometer to measure the probe thermal resistance in air far away and at 100 nm away from the sample surface. Detailed heat transfer modeling between the probe, sample, and ambient, which considers the nonclassical heat transfer across the gap between the SThM probe and sample surface, was used to determine the thermal resistance of several GST films sputtered with different powers on glass and silicon substrates. The thermal conductivity of GST thin film shows a reducing trend from 0.7 to 0.2 W m−1 K−1 when the thickness reduces from 159 nm to 24 nm. The reasons for thermal conductivity reduction are elucidated based on analytical thermal conductivity modeling.
Exploring the Influence of Feature Selection Methods on a Random Forest Model for Gait Time Series Prediction Using Inertial Measurement Units
Authors: Moghadam Shima Mohammadi , Choisne Julie
Published: February 2025

Despite the increasing use of inertial measurement units (IMUs) and machine learning techniques for gait analysis, there remains a gap in which feature selection methods are best tailored for gait time series prediction. This study explores the impact of using various feature selection methods on the performance of a random forest (RF) model in predicting lower limb joints kinematics from two IMUs. The primary objectives of this study are as follows: (1) Comparing eight feature selection methods based on their ability to identify more robust feature sets, time efficiency, and impact on RF models' performance, and (2) assessing the performance of RF models using generalized feature sets on a new dataset. Twenty-three typically developed (TD) children (ages 6–15) participated in data collection involving optical motion capture (OMC) and IMUs. Joint kinematics were computed using opensim. By employing eight feature selection methods (four filter and four embedded methods), the study identified 30 important features for each target. These selected features were used to develop personalized and generalized RF models to predict lower limbs joints kinematics during gait. This study reveals that various feature selection methods have a minimal impact on the performance of personalized and generalized RF models. However, the RF and mutual information (MI) methods provided slightly lower errors and outliers. MI demonstrated remarkable robustness by consistently identifying the most common features across different participants. ElasticNet emerged as the fastest method. Overall, the study illuminated the robustness of RF models in predicting joint kinematics during gait in children, showcasing consistent performance across various feature selection methods.
Co-Axial Rotor Aero-Engine System: A Hybrid Modelling and Dynamic in Situ Residual Balancing between High and Small Frequencies along Simulated Trial Unbalances with Active Magnetic Bearing Integration
Authors: Murugan S Bala , Behera R K
Published: February 2025

Imbalance is a synchronous vibration and is observed at the 1x (synchronous vibration). In this study, the dynamic in-field balancing of the co-axial rotor aero-engine system, that is, the estimation of the residual imbalance, is considered with the active magnetic bearing (AMB) integration. AMB devices are built with a feedback control algorithm with a PID control. The improved influence coefficient method (IICM) is used to identify imbalance forces in low and high-pressure rotors simultaneously through simulated trial unbalance from AMB magnetic excitation. To estimate the imbalances using IICM, the system's vibratory responses in the limited regions and the simulated trial unbalances' phase and magnitudes are only needed. The coaxial-rotor system's differential equation and dynamic model are established with a squeeze-film damper (SFD) at a low-pressure rotor using force coefficients in linear form. A flexible roller bearing, including an inter-shaft flexible bearing (IFB), supports the high-pressure rotor at both ends accordingly. For a mathematical model, the displacement response from a co-axial rotor aero-engine with discrete unbalances for multi-disk and multi-plane configurations is established to illustrate the proposed technique by a FEM. To validate the proposed technique, a specific percentage from measurement noises is considered while estimating the residual imbalances. It is found that the co-axial rotor system can smoothly cross its critical speed with minimal vibrational response upon balancing.
POLM inhibits porcine epidemic diarrhea virus replication by degrading multiple viral structural proteins
Authors: Cao Xinyu , Liu Yingyu , Tong Wu , Qin Wenzhen , Yang Xinyu , Yu Hai , Zheng Hao , Zhang Wen , Tong Guangzhi , Kong Ning , Shan Tongling
Published: February 2025

Porcine epidemic diarrhea, as a porcine epidemic diarrhea virus (PEDV)-induced infectious intestinal condition typified by diarrhea, emesis, dehydration, and anorexia, leads to death rates as high as 100% among suckling piglets. Given the existing commercial vaccines, it is essential to study host-virus interactions and formulate efficient anti-viral regimes. This study concerned a host factor POLM (a DNA polymerase family member) that exerts an anti-viral effect against PEDV proliferation. Our results indicated that POLM expression was increased following PEDV infection and was regulated by the transcription factor FOXA1. In addition, our findings indicated that POLM targeted and degraded PEDV structural proteins (N, S2, and M) by the autophagy pathway to inhibit PEDV proliferation. POLM could recruit the E3 ubiquitination ligase MARCH8 for N, S2, and M protein ubiquitination, which was subsequently recognized by p62, a cargo receptor, for translocation to the autophagic lysosome, therefore degrading the N, S2, and M proteins and preventing PEDV proliferation. In summary, we showed a novel therapeutic target for combating PEDV, i.e., using the POLM-MARCH8-p62-autophagosome pathway to degrade the PEDV N, S2, and M proteins.

IMPORTANCE

PEDV is a coronavirus that causes high mortality in piglets, which poses significant economic damage to swine farming. During PEDV infection, the host cells may promote the natural anti-viral immune response to suppress viral replication through a variety of potential host factors. In this study, we found upregulation of a host factor POLM by FOXA1 (a transcription factor) during PEDV infection. It was indicated that POLM could be a new anti-viral protein against the PEDV replication, which interacted with MARCH8 (an E3 ubiquitin ligase) and p62 (a cargo receptor) to facilitate the PEDV N, S2, and M protein degradation via the autophagy process. Apart from elucidating a previously unidentified anti-viral function of POLM, this study also provides a novel perspective for studying host anti-viral factors that act as regulators of anti-PEDV protein degrading pathways.
Supplemental Material: Terminal Mesoproterozoic (1.1–1.0 Ga) shallow ocean oxygenation and the rise of crown-group eukaryotes
Authors: Tang Dongjie , al. et
Published: February 2025

Supplemental Material, comprising all geochemical data (Table S1–S5) included in the manuscript.
Supplemental Material: 10Be exposure dates from pre-Illinoian glacial erratics deposited near the southern terminus of the Laurentide Ice Sheet
Authors: Pompeani David , et al.
Published: February 2025

Quartz purity and cosmogenic nuclide analysis of Sioux Quartzite.
Supplemental Material: Paired cosmogenic analysis reveals early Pleistocene burial and exposure history in northwest Greenland
Authors: Ceperley Elizabeth G. , Marcott Shaun A. , et al.
Published: February 2025

Metadata file and matlab code.