bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lateral Decubitus 360° Capsular Release for Treatment of Recalcitrant End-Stage Adhesive Capsulitis
Authors: Villarreal-Espinosa Juan Bernardo , Saad Berreta Rodrigo , Danilkowicz Richard , Dave Udit , Carpenter Melissa , Chahla Jorge , Verma Nikhil N.
Published: February 2025

Background:

Recalcitrant adhesive capsulitis, manifesting as persistent pain and continued range of motion deficits after a trial of conservative care, can be managed via lysis of adhesions with associated capsular release. While traditionally performed in the beach-chair position, capsular release performed via a lateral decubitus approach may provide enhanced visualization and the ability to perform a 360° release without iatrogenic injury to the cartilage surfaces.

Indications:

Arthroscopic capsular release in the setting of adhesive capsulitis is utilized when conservative strategies, such as physical therapy and/or corticosteroid injections, do not provide pain and range of motion improvement.

Technique Description:

Upon induction of general anesthesia, the patient is placed on the operating table in a lateral decubitus position utilizing the arm positioner of choice. The shoulder’s bony landmarks are identified for proper placement of the arthroscopic portals. A standard posterior portal is first established followed by an anterior portal in the rotator interval. Two-portal diagnostic arthroscopy then ensues. The rotator interval is then released, as is the superior capsule, to the 12-o’clock position using electrocautery. Next, a basket scissor is utilized to release the anterior capsule to the 6-o’clock position followed by posterior-superior and posterior-inferior capsular release while viewing anteriorly. Scope instrumentation is withdrawn and the shoulder manipulated, achieving full range of motion.

Results:

It is the senior author’s belief that by performing a capsular release via the lateral decubitus approach, better visualization, and access to the anterior, inferior, and posterior glenoid can be achieved for a complete 360° release. Additionally, risk of cerebral hypoperfusion and iatrogenic injury to the cartilage surfaces while instrumenting the joint is diminished. Upon procedure completion, the patient was observed to have gained full forward flexion, external rotation, and internal rotation.

Discussion/Conclusion:

Although traditionally approached via a beach-chair approach, capsular release of end-stage adhesive capsulitis via a lateral decubitus approach has shown to facilitate a circumferential view while providing ease of access to the inferior, anterior, and posterior glenoid, thereby substantially and immediately increasing patient range of motion.

Patient Consent Disclosure Statement:

The author(s) attests that consent has been obtained from any patient(s) appearing in this publication. If the individual may be identifiable, the author(s) has included a statement of release or other written form of approval from the patient(s) with this submission for publication.
Smartphone postural sway and pronator drift tests as measures of neurological disability
Authors: Calcagni Michael , Kosa Peter , Bielekova Bibi
Published: February 2025

The COVID-19 pandemic and increased demands for neurologists have inspired the creation of remote, digitalized tests of neurological functions. This study investigates two tests from the Neurological Functional Tests Suite (NeuFun-TS) smartphone application, the “Postural Sway” and “Pronator Drift” tests. These tests capture different domains of postural control and motoric dysfunction in healthy volunteers (n = 13) and people with neurological disorders (n = 68 relapsing–remitting multiple sclerosis [MS]; n = 21 secondary progressive MS; n = 23 primary progressive MS; n = 13 other inflammatory neurological diseases; n = 21 non-inflammatory neurological diseases; n = 4 clinically isolated syndrome; n = 1 radiologically isolated syndrome). Smartphone accelerometer data was transformed into digital biomarkers, which were filtered in the training cohort (~ 80% of subjects) for test–retest reproducibility and correlations with subdomains of neurological examinations and validated imaging biomarkers. The independent validation cohort (~ 20%) determined whether biomarker models outperformed the best single digital biomarkers. Postural sway acceleration magnitude in the eyes closed and feet together stance demonstrated the highest reliability (ICC = 0.706), strongest correlations with age (Pearson r <= 0.82) and clinical and imaging outcomes (r <= 0.65, p < 0.001) and stronger predictive value for sway-relevant neurological disability outcomes than models that aggregated multiple biomarkers (coefficient of determination R2 = 0.46 vs 0.38). The pronator drift test only captured cerebellar dysfunction, had less reproducible biomarkers, but provided additive value when combined with postural sway biomarkers into models predicting global scales of neurological disability. In conclusion, a simple 1-min postural sway test accurately measures body oscillations that increase with natural aging and differentiates them from abnormally increased body oscillations in people with neurological disabilities.
Evaluation of pathology resources for cervical cancer detection between 2018 and 2022: a retrospective study at Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital, Western Kenya
Authors: Anangwe Nelson , Steimgrimson Jon , Cu-Uvin Susan
Published: February 2025

Background

Cervical cancer cases are increasing in sub-Saharan Africa, particularly in Kenya, exacerbated by inadequate histopathology resources, posing a significant barrier to timely diagnosis and treatment. There has been little research on the availability and evolution of histopathology resources for diagnosing cervical cancer over the years. This retrospective study evaluated this evolution at Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital in Kenya between 2018 and 2022.

Methods

We used a mixed-methods approach. An in-depth interview was conducted with one of MTRH’s pathology laboratory staff to assess the equipment, personnel, and quality control trends between 2018 and 2022. A thematic analysis was conducted in NVivo. We also retrospectively conducted a comprehensive inventory review of laboratory resources from 2018 to 2022 via purposive sampling. Microsoft Excel and Stata version 17 were utilized for descriptive statistical analysis. Turnaround time (TAT) was assessed against the UK’s National Health Service Cervical Screening Program guidelines.

Results

The number of histopathology laboratory personnel at MTRH increased from 2018 to 2022, during which the facility included two pathologists, one records person, and one office administrator. Cervical cancer biopsy samples processed by the histopathology lab increased from 225 in 2018 to 674 in 2022. However, the histopathology personnel-to-population ratio decreased from 1.5 pathologists and 2.7 histo-technicians per 100,000 in 2018 to 1.4 pathologists and 1.8 histo-technicians per 100,000 in 2022. Despite this decrease, lab equipment, automatic tissue processors and embedding machines were added, and an average 14-day turnaround time was maintained for cervical cancer pathology reports.

Conclusions

Our study highlights a growing burden of cervical cancer with biopsy samples processed by the MTRH histopathology laboratory, increasing from 225 in 2018 to 674 in 2022. Despite challenges such as a declining staff-to-patient ratio and limited resources, the lab maintained a commendable 14-day turnaround time, supporting timely cervical cancer diagnoses. These findings emphasize the need for continued investment in pathology resources and personnel to enhance diagnostic capacity and address the rising incidence of cervical cancer in Kenya and similar low-resource settings. The decline in the personnel-to-patient ratio underscores challenges in diagnosis, emphasizing the need to address workforce and infrastructure gaps to improve patient care within similar low-resource settings.
Facilitators and barriers to protective eyewear acceptance among Indian farmers: A qualitative study
Authors: Madheswaran Gopinath , Eshwari K , Jathanna Judith Shefali , Ibrahim Syed , Srinivasan Krithica , Shinde Lakshmi , S Ve Ramesh , Asokan Rashima , Saravanan S , Saranya SB
Published: February 2025

Background

Agriculture, one of the most hazardous occupations globally, accounts for a significant proportion of work-related injuries, particularly in developing countries like India. However, lack of awareness and possibly low education levels make farmers in the unorganized sector vulnerable to eye injuries. This study aimed to identify the barriers to and facilitators of protective eyewear among farmers.

Methods

A multicentric study was conducted to assess occupational ocular hazards and preventive strategies among farmers in southern India. The facilitating factors and barriers to spectacles or protective eyewear among the study population were explored using a snapshot qualitative study conducted from two centres in Tamil Nadu and one in Karnataka. Thematic analysis was used to analyse the facilitators of and barriers to protective eyewear among farmers.

Results

Five focus group discussions were conducted with 31 farmers (mean age 55.8 ± 9.2 years) from three centers. Six themes were identified: occupational hazards while farming, practice patterns for managing occupational hazards, uses of protective eyewear while farming, benefits and challenges of protective eyewear, perceptions about protective eyewear and suggestions for improvement. Eye injuries from dust, branches, and chemicals were common, and farmers relied on home remedies for minor issues. Protective eyewear was appreciated for preventing injuries and improving safety but faced challenges such as discomfort, poor fit, and aesthetic concerns, particularly among women.

Conclusions

Although there is awareness regarding the need for protective eyewear, it is often not used due to discomfort during work or concerns about possible breakage of the spectacles. It is imperative for primary eye care professionals to raise awareness regarding the importance of ocular protection in the workplace.
Examining inclusivity: the use of AI and diverse populations in health and social care: a systematic review
Authors: Marko John Gabriel O. , Neagu Ciprian Daniel , Anand P. B.
Published: February 2025

Background

Artificial intelligence (AI)-based systems are being rapidly integrated into the fields of health and social care. Although such systems can substantially improve the provision of care, diverse and marginalized populations are often incorrectly or insufficiently represented within these systems. This review aims to assess the influence of AI on health and social care among these populations, particularly with regard to issues related to inclusivity and regulatory concerns.

Methods

We followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. Six leading databases were searched, and 129 articles were selected for this review in line with predefined eligibility criteria.

Results

This research revealed disparities in AI outcomes, accessibility, and representation among diverse groups due to biased data sources and a lack of representation in training datasets, which can potentially exacerbate inequalities in care delivery for marginalized communities.

Conclusion

AI development practices, legal frameworks, and policies must be reformulated to ensure that AI is applied in an equitable manner. A holistic approach must be used to address disparities, enforce effective regulations, safeguard privacy, promote inclusion and equity, and emphasize rigorous validation.
Resource constraints, patient emotions, and therapy: experiences of healthcare providers in the screening and management of gestational diabetes mellitus in northern Ghana
Authors: Bukari Mohammed , Abubakari Abdulai , Malechi Hawa , Hinneh Thomas , Garti Humphrey , Agbozo Faith
Published: February 2025

Background

Studies on healthcare providers’ experiences in screening and managing Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) are rare in northern Ghana. Understanding the experiences of healthcare providers in the screening and management of GDM has the potential to identify best practices to improve GDM care. Hence, this study sought to explore the experiences of healthcare providers in screening and managing GDM.

Materials and methods

This was a qualitative study of five key informants involved in the screening and management of GDM, specifically an obstetrician, a dietician/nutritionist, a nurse, and two midwives in the northern region of Ghana. Face-to-face interviews were conducted with the aid of an interview guide, and the data were analysed via thematic analysis. We ensured trustworthiness through reflexivity, member checking, peer-debriefing, providing rich text, and keeping an audit trail.

Results

Two main themes and six subthemes were generated. The first theme was resource-centred experiences, which explored events at the Antenatal Care (ANC) and the challenges in GDM screening and management, with subthemes namely: ANC setups, inadequate resources, and non-compliance. The second theme was care-centred experiences, which explored patient emotions during GDM care, and the care they receive post-GDM diagnosis, with subthemes namely: raw emotions, non-pharmacological therapy, and pharmacotherapy.

Conclusion

Findings suggest the need for health system strengthening through the training and recruitment of dedicated skilled personnel, as well as government intervention through policy revision to cover the cost of GDM diagnostic tests. Healthcare providers should also consider the psycho-emotional impact of diagnosis when managing GDM. The findings could be relevant for health policy, planning, advocacy, and social and behaviour change communication aimed at effective screening and management of GDM.
Distinct mechanisms of electroacupuncture and manual acupuncture in modulating hypothalamic GnRH–tanycyte unit function of polycystic ovary syndrome
Authors: Wang Yu , Wang Yicong , Chen Yuning , Lu Wenhan , Tong Xiaoyu , Li Jiajia , Gao Wenhao , Huang Rui , Hu Wei , Feng Yi
Published: February 2025

Background

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a complex neuroendocrine disorder characterized by dysregulation of the hypothalamus. Both electroacupuncture (EA) and manual acupuncture (MA) have demonstrated therapeutic efficacy in the treatment of PCOS through improvements in hypothalamic function. However, the underlying mechanisms remain poorly understood. Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) neurons are pivotal in regulating hypothalamic endocrine function, whereas tanycyte, a specialized glial cell type, potentially contribute to this process.

Methods

A dihydrotestosterone (DHT)-induced PCOS-like mouse model was used to investigate the effects of acupuncture. Tissue clearing and three-dimensional (3D) imaging were employed to visualize the hypothalamic GnRH neuronal network and assess postacupuncture modifications. Transcriptome sequencing was performed to identify changes in the gene profiles associated with EA and MA. Rax-CreERT2 transgenic mice were utilized to investigate the molecular targets of EA in tanycytes.

Results

EA significantly alleviated neuroendocrine dysfunction in PCOS-like mice by restoring the density and coverage of GnRH axonal projections. MA displayed similar therapeutic effects but had less pronounced effects on GnRH axons. Transcriptome analysis revealed distinct mechanisms for these two approaches: EA primarily regulates neuroglial plasticity, whereas MA predominantly targets neurotransmitter regulation. Both EA and MA share a common therapeutic target in the integrin family. Functional studies in Rax-CreERT2 transgenic mice confirmed that Itgb1 plays a critical role in maintaining the balance of hypothalamic GnRH–tanycyte unit during EA treatment.

Conclusions

EA exerts therapeutic effects on PCOS by targeting hypothalamic GnRH–tanycyte unit, with Itgb1 identified as a key factor. MA primarily functions through neurotransmitter regulation. These findings highlight potential hypothalamic targets and provide new insights into the distinct mechanisms of EA and MA.
Pilot application of an inflammation and physiological dysregulation index based on noninvasive salivary biomarkers
Authors: Egorov Andrey I. , Xue William , Kobylanski Jason , Fuzawa Miyu , Griffin Shannon M. , Wade Timothy J. , Nye Michael
Published: February 2025

Background and objective

Noninvasive salivary biomarkers can be used to assess the cumulative subclinical health impacts of social and environmental stressors. We evaluated seven salivary biomarkers of neuroendocrine and immune functions and a group index of physiological dysregulation based on these biomarkers in a pilot survey in a socioeconomically disadvantaged population.

Results

Participants recruited at subsidized public housing projects in Denver, Colorado, completed a sociodemographic, behavioral, and health questionnaire and used passive drool samplers to collect five saliva samples over the course of 1 day. Samples were tested for the neuroendocrine biomarkers alpha-amylase, cortisol, and dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) as well as immune system/inflammation biomarkers C-reactive protein (CRP), interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6 and total immunoglobulin A (IgA). A composite Inflammation and Physiological Dysregulation Index (IPDI) was calculated as a count of potentially unhealthy values of dichotomized biomarkers. In 20 individuals who completed the survey (average age 46 years, 75% females), allergy to house dust was significantly associated with increased IPDI (adjusted for age) and significantly increased odds of potentially unhealthy values of total IgA, IL-1β, and CRP. Age, obesity, diabetes, allergy to pollen, recent loss of employment, and depression, anxiety, and stress scores from the standard DASS-21 questionnaire were positively but not significantly (0.05 < p < 0.2) associated with IPDI. This project demonstrated an application of a composite index based on noninvasive salivary biomarkers to assess subclinical health impacts of chronic social stressors.
Age-related changes in DNA methylation in a sample of elderly Brazilians
Authors: Welsh Hayley , Batalha Caio M. P. F. , Li Weili , Souza-Pinto Nadja C. , Duarte Yeda A. O. , Naslavsky Michel S. , Parra Esteban J.
Published: February 2025

Background

Age-related changes in DNA methylation (DNAm) play a critical role in regulating gene expression. However, most epigenome-wide association studies have predominantly focused on individuals of European descent. This study aims to characterize longitudinal changes in DNAm patterns in a cohort of elderly Brazilian participants.

Methods

DNAm profiles were collected approximately nine years apart from 23 elderly Brazilian individuals using the Illumina Infinium MethyationEPIC BeadChip. Using mixed-effects models, we examined changes in DNAm patterns using both quantitative age and binary timepoint (e.g., baseline vs. follow-up) as predictors of interest to identify differentially methylated positions (DMPs). Significant DMPs were compared with a list of previously identified age-related DMPs. Differentially methylated regions (DMRs) were also identified using DMRcate. Gene ontology (GO) pathway enrichment analyses were performed to explore the functional significance of identified DMPs and DMRs.

Results

Of the 586,229 autosomal probes included in the differential methylation analyses, 2768 significant (FDR < 0.05) age-associated DMPs (aDMPs) and 2757 significant (FDR < 0.05) timepoint-associated DMPs (tpDMPs) were identified. Of the 2768 aDMPs, 1471 were replicated from previous studies. Of the 1297 non-replicated CpGs, 77.4% were exclusive to the EPIC array. The DMR analyses identified 305 age-associated DMRs (aDMRs) and 372 timepoint-associated DMRs (tpDMRs). Both aDMPs and aDMRs exhibited age-related hypermethylation within CpG islands and promoter regions of the genome, whereas hypomethylation predominantly occurred in interCGI and intergenic regions and introns. The GO enrichment analyses identified several neurological and cognition-related pathways enriched for hypermethylated CpG islands, many of which were mapped near transcription start sites and first exon regions.

Conclusions

This longitudinal study identified age-associated and timepoint-associated DMPs and DMRs in a sample of elderly Brazilians. Most of the non-replicated CpGs were found to be on the new EPIC array, suggesting that more age-related studies using the EPIC array are required to validate these CpGs. The GO pathway enrichment analyses identified age-related enrichment of several gene sets related to cognitive and physical decline in elderly populations. The enrichment of these sites could provide evidence for age-related neurodegeneration and cognitive decline in elderly populations.
miR-182 promoter hypermethylation predicts the better outcome of AML patients treated with AZA + VEN in a real-world setting
Authors: Xu Yilan , Li Danyang , Wang Na , Ge Bei , Meng Chen , Zhao Min , Lin Zihan , Li Min , Yuan Yigang , Cai Yue , Shi Liuzhi , Gao Shenmeng , Ye Haige
Published: February 2025

Background

5-Azacytidine (AZA) combined with the BCL2 inhibitor Venetoclax (VEN) is the standard treatment for elderly acute myeloid leukemia (AML) patients or those who are unfit for intensive chemotherapy (elderly or unfit AML). However, an effective and rapid predictive biomarker to predict treatment outcome remains elusive.

Methods

miR-182 promoter methylation was measured in 94 AZA + VEN-treated elderly or unfit AML patients and 20 normal controls (NCs) samples. To determine whether miR-182 promoter methylation is a predictive marker of clinical outcomes in AZA + VEN-treated AML patients in a real-world setting, we analyzed and compared the complete remission (CR)/CR with incomplete hematologic recovery (CRi) rate, overall survival (OS), and leukemia free-survival (LFS) across different methylation groups: miR-182 promoter hypomethylation (median value < 20.21%) and hypermethylation (> 20.21%) in a retrospective study.

Results

The average methylation frequency was markedly higher in 94 AZA + VEN-treated elderly or unfit AML patients than that in 20 NCs. However, some AML patients (11.7%) still presented low miR-182 promoter methylation (< 10%). The average time to obtain CR/CRi was shorter in AML patients with miR-182 promoter hypermethylation than AML with hypomethylation. Moreover, the median OS and LFS were longer in AML patients with miR-182 promoter hypermethylation than AML with hypomethylation. Finally, the area under the curve (AUC) for 1-year mortality was 0.831, for 2-year was 0.788, and for 3-year was 0.800.

Conclusions

AML patients with miR-182 promoter hypermethylation have better outcomes. miR-182 promoter methylation is a predictive biomarker for AZA + VEN-treated AML patients.
Optimizing English translation processing of conceptual metaphors in big data technology texts
Authors: Ma Wenbo
Published: February 2025

Focusing on the difficulties presented by conceptual metaphors in Big Data (BD)-related literature, this research offers a novel methodology for improving English translation processing. The main goal of this study is to improve translation efficiency and accuracy via cutting-edge technologies, including machine learning, cloud computing, and big data analytics. English texts with complex metaphors are gathered and annotated for the study, and then the suggested model is compared to more conventional translation techniques. The results show that the optimized translation model performs better than traditional methods. Evaluation measures, particularly the Translation Edit Rate (TER) and Bilingual Evaluation Understudy (BLEU), show that the model records lower TER scores, which indicate fewer changes required for correctness, and higher BLEU scores, which indicate enhanced translation quality. The optimized model’s performance stabilizes as the amount of text rises, demonstrating how resilient it is to processing bigger datasets. This study shows how well the suggested model enhances translation results and illustrates how crucial it is to comprehend metaphorical language in technical situations. This research aims to give translators a better foundation for handling the difficulties of writing about Big Data by tackling the nuances of interpreting conceptual metaphors. Finally, given the quickly changing world of technology, the knowledge gathered from this study advances translation techniques and improves interlingual communication.
“There’s always somebody that you can identify with”: a qualitative study of patient perspectives on buprenorphine group medical visits
Authors: Masyukova Mariya , Hayes Benjamin T. , López-Castro Teresa , Fox Aaron D.
Published: February 2025

Background

Buprenorphine (BUP) treatment has been successfully integrated into primary care and other general medical settings; however, potential BUP prescribers frequently report inadequate training and resources to provide psychosocial counseling as barriers to providing care. Group medical visits, which combine psychosocial support and chronic condition management, have been described for BUP treatment, but few studies have explored what is gained and/or lost by offering BUP treatment in groups instead of individual visits.

Methods

Five focus groups with 3–11 participants each were conducted at an urban community health center that housed a mature office-based BUP treatment program. Participants were persons with opioid use disorder (OUD) who had previously received BUP treatment. A semi-structured interview guide covered the following domains: experience with BUP, experience with group counseling, and preferences for BUP in a group format or individual setting. Qualitative analysis followed a modified grounded theory approach.

Results

Of 33 participants, 28 were male, median age range was 50–54, 20 identified as Hispanic/Latinx, and 24 reported past experiences with substance use disorder treatment groups. Four main themes were: (1) Groups can address the psychological aspects of addiction; (2) Groups introduce positive peer support; (3) Balancing OUD treatment and management of other chronic conditions; (4) Groups must be voluntary.

Conclusions

Findings demonstrate that many persons with OUD taking BUP desire assistance with recovery skills, peer support, and learning about the risks and benefits of BUP. Group medical visits can efficiently deliver these services in primary care, but findings also emphasize that group counseling will be best received when voluntary and group members are committed and authentic.
FEM modelling of hydrogen embrittlement in API 5L X65 steel for safe hydrogen transportation
Authors: Nazar Shaghayegh , Lipiec Sebastian , Proverbio Edoardo
Published: February 2025

Hydrogen is crucial for decarbonization efforts due to its abundance, environmental friendliness, and versatility. To maximize its potential, an efficient transportation infrastructure is essential. While utilizing the natural gas pipeline network for transporting hydrogen is cost-effective, hydrogen embrittlement (HE) poses a significant challenge. When hydrogen enters the metal, it significantly compromises its fracture toughness. This study investigates the impact of high-pressure hydrogen on the mechanical properties of API 5L X65 carbon steel through a combined experimental and computational approach. To quantify the extent of HE, tensile tests were performed on identical specimens, one set pre-exposed to high-pressure hydrogen and another set kept in an inert environment for comparison. Finite element modelling, employing the Bai-Wierzbicki material model (BWMM), was used to simulate the material behaviour under large plastic deformations and correlate with experimental results. This synergistic approach integrates experimental data with simulations, creating a framework for predicting and preventing catastrophic failures.
Consumer negative opinions on stock returns: evidence from E-commerce reviews in China
Authors: Wu Danni , Zhou Zhenkun , Su Zhi
Published: February 2025

This study investigates the significance of e-commerce consumer opinions regarding value in China’s A-share market. By analyzing a large dataset comprising over 18 million online consumer reviews on JD.com, we demonstrate that sentiments expressed in e-commerce reviews can influence stock returns. This indicates that consumer opinions on the e-commerce platform contain valuable information that can impact the stock market. Our findings show that Consumer Negative Sentiment Tendency (CNST) and One-Star Tendency (OST) have a negative effect on expected stock returns, even after controlling for firm characteristics such as market risk, illiquidity, idiosyncratic volatility, and asset growth. Further analysis indicates that CNST demonstrates stronger predictive power within the home appliance industry, under high sentiment conditions, in growth companies, and among firms with lower accounting transparency. We also find that CNST negatively predicts revenue surprises, earnings surprises, and cash flow shocks. These results suggest that consumer opinions and sentiments derived from e-commerce reviews highlight firms’ intrinsic worth and prospects. Future research could explore how firms, including suppliers and logistics companies, can leverage the information conveyed by consumer opinions on e-commerce platforms.
When LLMs meet cybersecurity: a systematic literature review
Authors: Zhang Jie , Bu Haoyu , Wen Hui , Liu Yongji , Fei Haiqiang , Xi Rongrong , Li Lun , Yang Yun , Zhu Hongsong , Meng Dan
Published: February 2025

The rapid development of large language models (LLMs) has opened new avenues across various fields, including cybersecurity, which faces an evolving threat landscape and demand for innovative technologies. Despite initial explorations into the application of LLMs in cybersecurity, there is a lack of a comprehensive overview of this research area. This paper addresses this gap by providing a systematic literature review, covering the analysis of over 300 works, encompassing 25 LLMs and more than 10 downstream scenarios. Our comprehensive overview addresses three key research questions: the construction of cybersecurity-oriented LLMs, the application of LLMs to various cybersecurity tasks, the challenges and further research in this area. This study aims to shed light on the extensive potential of LLMs in enhancing cybersecurity practices and serve as a valuable resource for applying LLMs in this field. We also maintain and regularly update a list of practical guides on LLMs for cybersecurity at https://github.com/tmylla/Awesome-LLM4Cybersecurity.
Savoring the past, preserving the future: a mixed-methods examination of culinary traditions among Pontic Greeks in Northern Greece
Authors: Keramaris Achillefs , Kasapidou Eleni , Mitlianga Paraskevi
Published: February 2025

This mixed-methods study investigates how Pontic Greeks in Western Macedonia, Greece, preserve and adapt their culinary traditions amid modern challenges. Employing survey questionnaires (n = 390), interviews, and participant observation, we explored sociodemographic attributes, lifestyle factors, and food preferences. Statistical and thematic analyses revealed a strong preference for traditional delicacies, such as pisia (a type of pancake) and tanomenon sorva (yogurt soup), alongside a notable shift from butter to olive oil driven by health considerations. Qualitative findings underscored the deep cultural and emotional significance of these foods, revealing themes such as intergenerational knowledge transmission, urbanization’s impact, and the dual role of heritage and convenience in shaping food choices. Integrated data analysis revealed a convergence regarding the importance of preserving culinary traditions in the face of societal change, illustrating the dynamic nature of Pontic Greek gastronomy. This study demonstrates how personal, cultural, environmental, and societal factors influence the maintenance and evolution of these culinary practices.
Carvacrol attenuated haloperidol-induced Parkinson’s disease via TNF/NFκβ-NLRP3-mediated pyroptosis
Authors: Albaqami Faisal , Ahmad Khawaja Waqas , Shah Fawad Ali
Published: February 2025

Background

Parkinson’s disease is a debilitating and the second most common neurodegenerative disorder with a high prevalence. Parkinson’s disease has a multifaceted etiology characterized by an altered redox state and an excessive inflammatory response. In this study, we investigated the potential neuroprotective properties of carvacrol in a haloperidol-induced Parkinson’s model. In female Sprague-Dawley rats, the animal Parkinson model was induced by intraperitoneally administering 1 mg / kg of haloperidol once daily for fifteen days. Carvacrol was administered at a dose of 25 and 50 mg / kg once daily for fifteen days before haloperidol administration. In order to further illustrate the vital role of the tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α) pathway, we administered 50 mg / kg of the TNF-α inhibitor thalidomide once daily for 15 days.

Results

Our results showed that haloperidol-induced motor deficits, changed endogenous antioxidant enzymes, along with higher levels of inflammasome (NLRP3) and other inflammatory mediators. Moreover, increased levels of lipid peroxidase (LPO) indicated a significant rise in oxidative stress due to haloperidol. Moreover, carvacrol reduced these effects by preventing pyroptosis mediated by the inflammasome (NLRP3) and TNF-α. The administration of thalidomide mitigated oxidative stress and suppresses inflammatory pathways through the augmentation of the intrinsic antioxidant system. Further, co-treatment of carvacrol with thalidomide synergized the neuroprotective effect of carvacrol as demonstrated by various immunoassays and histology analyses.

Conclusions

Taken together, our findings suggest that carvacrol mitigated haloperidol-induced Parkinson-like symptoms, partially through the downregulation of TNF-α and NLRP3.
Using positive deviance to enhance HIV care retention in South Africa: development of a compassion-focused program to improve the staff and patient experience
Authors: Ober Allison J. , Skinner Donald H. , Bogart Laura M. , Busakwe Leletu , Davids Wadene , Mahomed Hassan , Ling Debbie , Zweigenthal Virginia
Published: February 2025

Background

HIV burden remains high in South Africa despite intensive efforts to curtail the epidemic. Public primary care facilities, where most people with HIV (PWH) in South Africa receive treatment, face myriad challenges retaining patients on antiretroviral therapy (ART). Nevertheless, some facilities manage to consistently retain PWH in care. We used a participatory positive deviance (PD) approach to discover characteristics of primary care facilities with above-average 12-month retention rates to develop an intervention.

Methods

We conducted 11 in-depth leadership interviews, 9 staff focus groups with 29 participants, 11 patient focus groups with 45 participants, 23 patient shadowing visits, and multiple facility observations in each of 3 high- and 3 low-retention public primary care facilities in Cape Town, South Africa. Using PD, an asset-based approach to behavior change that consists of discovering how high-performing outliers succeed despite sizable barriers, and then using those data to develop interventions for low performers, we analyzed data to discover dominant characteristics of higher-retention facilities that might be contributing to higher retention rates.

Results

Dominant themes found in higher-retention facilities were compassionate, respectful, and patient-centered care; higher staff morale, passion for the work, and team cohesion; efficient workflow procedures; and a welcoming physical environment. From these themes, we developed the multidimensional Connect intervention, consisting of strategies within three domains: (1) engage, encourage, and support staff (e.g., a monthly staff support huddle, a compassion training); (2) expedite and augment workflow procedures (e.g., adjust folder system to lower wait times); and (3) create a welcoming physical environment (e.g., fresh paint and plants in the waiting area).

Conclusions

A PD approach enabled us to identify factors that could be contributing to higher ART retention rates within low-resource public sector primary care facilities in Cape Town, South Africa, and to develop a multidimensional intervention. If effective after a future trial, the intervention could be a feasible, affordable complement to existing programs aimed at improving care for PWH.
Respiratory disease in people with major depressive disorder: A systematic review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Jiménez-Peinado Ana , Laguna-Muñoz David , Jaén-Moreno María José , Camacho-Rodríguez Cristina , del Pozo Gloria Isabel , Vieta Eduard , Caballero-Villarraso Javier , Rico-Villademoros Fernando , Sarramea Fernando
Published: February 2025

Background

Living with major depressive disorder (MDD) reduces life expectancy, with respiratory disease being a significant threat. However, evidence on respiratory disease in this population has not yet been meta-analyzed.

Methods

This meta-analysis examines respiratory disease prevalence and odds ratio (OR) in patients with MDD and treatment resistant depression (TRD). A systematic literature search was conducted, with a snowball search of reference and citation lists. Inclusion criteria covered studies in MDD and TRD patients with confirmed diagnoses of respiratory diseases (asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease [COPD], pneumonia, lung cancer, and tuberculosis), comparing with a control group when possible.

Results

From 4,138 retrieved articles, 15 (including 476,927 individuals with MDD, 50,680 with TRD, and 1,108,979 control group) met the inclusion criteria. In MDD patients, COPD prevalence was 9.0% (95% CI: 3.8–19.6%), asthma 8.6% (95% CI: 5.7–12.8%), and pneumonia 2.5% (95% CI: 2.2–2.9%). In TRD patients, COPD prevalence was 9.9% (95% CI: 4.2–21.9%) and asthma 10.9% (95% CI: 10.7–11.2%), but meta-analysis limited to those diseases showed no significant relative risk differences. Compared to the general population, individuals with MDD had significantly higher rates of COPD (OR 1.79, 95% CI: 1.49–2.16), even higher in younger populations (1.85 [95% CI: 1.74–1.97]) and more prevalent in women.

Conclusions

This first meta-analysis on this topic shows that MDD is associated with an increased risk of respiratory illness compared to the general population. The prevalence of asthma doubles the mean described in the general population worldwide, and in COPD, women and younger people are at particular risk. Prevention policies are urgently needed.
Advancements in Interoperability: Achieving Anatomic Pathology Reports That Adhere to International Standards and Are Both Human-Readable and Readily Computable
Authors: Campbell Walter S. , Rous Brian A. , Dubois Stefan , Seegers Paul A. , Dash Rajesh C. , Rüdiger Thomas , Santamaria Suzanne , Wooler Elaine , Case James , Igali Lazslo , Edgerton Mary E. , Simpson Ross W. , Bazyleva Ekaterina , Birdsong George , Moldwin Richard , Helliwell Timothy R. , Yu Peter Paul , Srigley John
Published: February 2025

PURPOSE

Over the past 50 years, multiple pathology organizations worldwide have evolved in cancer histopathology reporting from subjective, narrative assessments to structured, synoptic formats using controlled vocabulary. These reporting protocols include the required data elements that represent the minimum set of evidence-based, clinically actionable parameters necessary to convey the diagnostic, prognostic, and predictive information essential for patient care. Despite these advances, the synoptic reporting protocols were not harmonized across the various pathology organizations. Cancer pathology continues to be widely reported and stored in free-text format, or without encoded data such that it is neither computable nor interoperable across organizations.

METHODS

In 2020, SNOMED International created the Cancer Synoptic Reporting Working Group (CSRWG). This resulted in international collaboration across multiple pathology organizations. CCRWG's mission was to use SNOMED Clinical Terms (CT) concepts to represent the required content within the College of American Pathologists (CAP) and International Collaboration on Cancer Reporting (ICCR) published pathology reporting protocols.

RESULTS

In late 2023, the CSRWG published over 1,300 new or revised SNOMED CT concepts to represent all required pathology cancer data elements for adult and pediatric solid tumors in both CAP and ICCR using the semantic principles of the SNOMED-CT concept model. Thus, computability and interoperability would be broadly established.

CONCLUSION

This work brings to fruition the longstanding desire for an international, interoperable, human- and machine-readable cancer pathology report for use in patient care, health care quality improvement, population health, public health surveillance, and translational and clinical trial research. The following report describes the project, its methods, and applications in the stated use cases.
Clinical Course of COVID-19 in Children With Adrenal Insufficiency: Results From National Data
Authors: Capalbo Donatella , Moracas Cristina , Guazzarotti Laura , Baronio Federico , Stancampiano Marianna Rita , Ortolano Rita , Valenzise Mariella , Bizzarri Carla , Patti Giuseppa , Longhi Silvia , Giavoli Claudia , Guzzetti Chiara , Zoletto Silvia , Lattanzio Crescenza , Cavarzere Paolo , Street Maria Elisabeth , Faienza Maria Felicia , Grandone Anna , Cappa Marco , Wasniewska Malgorzata Gabriela , Russo Gianni , Maghnie Mohamad , Salerno Mariacarolina
Published: February 2025

Context

There has been concern about a potential increase in the incidence or severity of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in individuals with adrenal insufficiency (AI). Data on the course of SARS-CoV-2 infection in AI children are lacking.

Objective

Evaluate whether children with AI are more susceptible to the infection or are at risk of severe COVID-19.

Methods

In this multicenter, retrospective study among 1143 children with AI, 148 contracted SARS-CoV-2 (112 with primary, 36 with secondary AI) and were evaluated for severity and outcomes of infection, along with 74 control subjects with normal adrenal function.

Results

The prevalence of COVID-19 in the AI cohort was 12.9%, not increased compared to pediatric Italian population in the same period. The severity was not increased in AI subjects and was classified as follows in patients vs controls: asymptomatic in 14.9% vs 10.8%; paucisymptomatic in 33.8% vs 37.8%; mild in 45.3% vs 45.9%; severe in 3.4% vs 2.7%; critical in 2.7% vs 2.7%. Among those with severe COVID, 4 patients with AI (2.7%) and 3 controls (4%) developed pneumonia while 3 patients with PAI (2%) and 2 controls (2.7%) developed multisystem inflammatory syndrome (P not statistically significant). Only 5 patients (3.4%) experienced an adrenal crisis during a severe COVID-19. The hospitalization rate was the same in patients vs controls (9.5%). All subjects completely recovered, and no COVID-related deaths were documented.

Conclusion

Our findings do not indicate that AI is associated with increased susceptibility to SARS-CoV-2 infection or higher risk for severe COVID-19 in children.
Central and Peripheral Roles of Salt-inducible Kinases in Metabolic Regulation
Authors: Onda Danise-Ann , Zhu Yifei , Yuan XiaoZhuo , Loh Kim
Published: February 2025

Salt-inducible kinases (SIKs), a member of the serine/threonine protein kinase family, have recently garnered considerable research interest as one of the emerging key regulators of metabolism. The 3 SIK isoforms—SIK1, SIK2, and SIK3—exhibit diverse roles both in central and peripheral physiological processes. While early studies focused on their role in inflammation, spurring the development of SIK inhibitors for chronic inflammatory diseases currently in clinical trials, emerging evidence highlights their broader functions in metabolism. In this review, we will summarize the current state of research on the central roles of SIKs in the brain, particularly in regulating energy balance and glucose homeostasis, alongside their peripheral functions in critical metabolic tissues such as the liver, adipose tissue, and pancreas. By integrating insights into their central and peripheral roles, this review underscores the importance of SIKs in maintaining metabolic homeostasis and highlights their therapeutic potential as novel targets for metabolic disease.
The Aesthetics of Resistance, Volume III
Authors: Weiss Peter
Published: February 2025

A major literary event, the publication of the final volume of Peter Weiss’s three-volume novel The Aesthetics of Resistance makes one of the towering works of twentieth-century German literature available to English-speaking readers for the first time. Weiss’s crowning achievement, The Aesthetics of Resistance spans the period from the late 1930s to the end of World War II, dramatizing antifascist resistance and the rise and fall of proletarian political parties in Europe.

Volume III, initially published in 1981, teems with characters, many of whom are based on historical figures. It commences in May of 1940, as the narrator’s parents flee Nazi forces in Eastern Europe and reunite with their son in Sweden. While in Stockholm, the narrator and other Communist activists living in exile struggle to build structures in the German underground. The story then follows Communist resistance fighter Charlotte Bischoff as she is smuggled to Bremen on a freighter. In Berlin, she contacts the narrator’s friends and joins the Red Orchestra resistance group. Soon, the Gestapo cracks the underground group’s code, arrests a number of its members, and takes them to Plötzensee Prison, where most of them are executed. Featuring the narrator’s meditations on paintings, sculpture, and literature throughout, The Aesthetics of Resistance demonstrates the affinity between political resistance and art. Ultimately, Weiss argues that we must look to art for new models of political action and social understanding.