bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Efficacy of Neoadjuvant Radiotherapy After Chemotherapy and the Optimal Interval from Radiotherapy to Surgery for Borderline Resectable and Resectable Pancreatic Cancer
Authors: Yun Won-Gun , Chae Yoon Soo , Han Youngmin , Jung Hye-Sol , Cho Young Jae , Kang Hyun-Cheol , Kwon Wooil , Park Joon Seong , Chie Eui Kyu , Jang Jin-Young
Published: January 2025

Background

Benefits of neoadjuvant treatment for pancreatic cancer with major vessel invasion has been demonstrated through randomized controlled trials; however, the optimal neoadjuvant treatment strategy remains controversial, especially for radiotherapy. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of neoadjuvant radiotherapy followed by chemotherapy and the optimal time interval to undergo surgery after radiotherapy in (borderline) resectable pancreatic cancer.

Methods

Between 2013 and 2022, patients with (borderline) resectable pancreatic cancer with vessel contact who received 5-fluorouracil with leucovorin, oxaliplatin, and irinotecan or gemcitabine and nanoparticle albumin-bound paclitaxel as initial treatment following surgery were included. Patients who received radiotherapy after chemotherapy and those who did not were matched using 1:1 nearest-neighbor propensity scores. Propensity scores were measured using the tumor size at initial image, duration of neoadjuvant chemotherapy, and responsiveness to neoadjuvant chemotherapy.

Results

Of 212 patients, 166 patients were retrieved for the matched cohort. Patients who received radiotherapy had significantly better postoperative survival, local control, and R0 resection rates than those who did not. Furthermore, patients who underwent surgery within 4 weeks after completing radiotherapy had lower intraoperative blood loss and a clinically relevant postoperative pancreatic fistula rate than those who underwent surgery after more than 4 weeks.

Conclusions

In patients with (borderline) resectable pancreatic cancer with vessel contact who were scheduled for curative-intent surgery after neoadjuvant chemotherapy, additional radiotherapy was associated with better postoperative survival and local control. Furthermore, our findings suggested that scheduling surgery within 4 weeks following radiation therapy might enhance the perioperative outcomes.
A incidência de normas europeias no Brasil
Authors: Mata Diz Jamile Bergamaschine , Cobucci Vinicius , Del Pozo Carlos Francisco Molina
Published: January 2025

Contextualização: O artigo analisa a possibilidade de impactos extraterritoriais do Regulamento Europeu contra o Desmatamento (RED) da União Europeia (UE) na formulação da política ambiental brasileira, já que a UE exige o cumprimento de padrões ambientais rigorosos pelos países exportadores. Além de prever formas de controle dos produtos a serem importados, o RED prevê a criação de sistemas de avaliação de políticas públicas dos países exportadores contra o desmatamento, o que inclui mecanismos de repressão e aplicação de sanções.
Objetivo: Avaliar se a aplicação das sanções do tipo penal previsto no art. 50-A da Lei nº 9.605/98, que criminaliza o desmatamento ilegal em florestas em domínio público ou devolutas no Brasil, atende aos critérios do RED, em especial o grau da efetividade da legislação penal brasileira no combate ao desmatamento.
Método: Foram analisados 66 acórdãos do Tribunal Regional Federal da 1ª Região, de janeiro e outubro de 2024, com base em uma pesquisa jurisprudencial, utilizando palavras-chave relacionadas ao desmatamento e apelações penais. Para os casos em que houve condenação, foram analisadas as penas aplicadas e qual foi a área desmatada.
Resultados: A maioria dos casos resultou em absolvição (58,2%) ou prescrição (8,8%), enquanto apenas 32,4% levaram à condenação. As penas aplicadas, geralmente leves, incluem substituições por penas restritivas de direitos, notadamente prestações pecuniárias, as quais não se mostram suficientes para desestimular o desmatamento ilegal. Conclui-se que a legislação penal brasileira não atende aos critérios qualitativos e finalísticos previstos pelo RED para avaliar a efetividade das políticas repressivas dos países exportadores.
Tracheobronchial endoluminal hamartochondroma resected via rigid bronchoscopy: 2 case reports of a rare entity
Authors: Touil Amany , Sarra Maazaoui , Karim Darragi , Mariem Chaabane , Tasnim Znegui , Rahma Ayadi , Nizar Fitouhi , Ines Baccouche , Hager Racil , Nawel Chaouch
Published: January 2025

Tracheobronchial endoluminal hamartochondroma (HC) is a rare benign tumor, most frequently diagnosed in individuals between the sixth and seventh decades of life. The clinical presentation is usually very noisy. Here, we report two interesting cases. The first patient is a 58-year-old man who was wrongly treated for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. HC was in the lower third of the trachea. The second patient is a 43-year-old man with a history of bronchiectasis and right lower lobectomy. HC was in the middle lobe bronchus. The resection via rigid bronchoscopy with diode laser was successful without any complications. Only one patient keeps a small stable tumor residue. The rigid bronchoscopy with laser-application in tracheobronchial endoluminal HC is safe and effective. Flexible bronchoscopy is important during the follow-up.
Trend Analysis of Atmospheric Lifted Index, Precipitable Water, and Rainfall Over Hyderabad, India
Authors: Taiyab Mohammad , Begum Maniyar Shanawaz , Ansari Rizwan-ul Haq , Rahiman Md Khaleelur , Basha Aleem
Published: January 2025

This study analyses the temporal patterns of rainfall, precipitable water, and lifted index in the Hyderabad region from 1980 to 2023, employing the Mann-Kendall test and regression analysis. These methods provide a comprehensive framework for evaluating rainfall variation, atmospheric instability and overall long-term climate change. Analysis was carried out using radiosonde data to assess precipitable water and lifted index while employing data from the India Water Resources Information System for rainfall analysis. A downward trend in the lifted index was observed during November, December, the annual period, and post-monsoon. An increasing trend in precipitable water was seen throughout all months, annually, and across the four seasons. No significant pattern in rainfall was seen throughout all months, annually, and throughout the four seasons. The annual increase in the lifted index in Hyderabad is significantly negative, indicating intensified convection and isolated storms. The yearly trend of precipitable water in Hyderabad demonstrates a significant positive connection, indicating an increase in atmospheric moisture. The monthly average time series revealed a significant positive trend in precipitable water, a negative trend in the lifted index, and no observable trend in rainfall. This study improves our comprehension of water vapour concentration, atmospheric instability, and precipitation patterns in Hyderabad, hence aiding agriculture, water resource management, and air pollution reduction.
Should All Doctors Undergo Mandatory Life Support Training?
Authors: Stretch Benjamin , Teh Eng Hong , Waite Matthew , Jakubowska Agnieszka
Published: January 2025

Advanced life support certification has traditionally been the gold standard of resuscitation training for doctors and has been shown to improve outcomes from cardiac arrest. In 2021, Health Education England removed named courses from mandatory Foundational Programme competencies, which has resulted in capping of reimbursement and reduced access to courses. This represents a drop in educational standards which is particularly concerning when the medical school curriculum has been shown to deliver inconsistent, poor-quality resuscitation training. Here we review the benefits and negatives of life support training, looking at both junior and senior clinicians with differing educational requirements.
Top Marks
Authors: Ford Jason
Published: January 2025

Thales is a national partner with Primary Engineer, an educational not-for-profit organisation that collaborates with engineering and technology professionals to inspire children with STEM through fully funded programmes and competitions.
Clinical, radiologic, and pathologic study of intraosseous lipoma of the tibia: A case report
Authors: Liu Peng , Zhang Kai , Zeng Jian-Kang , Chang Yan-Feng , Zhuang Kai-Peng , Zhou Sheng-Hu
Published: January 2025

BACKGROUND

Intraosseous lipoma of bone is one of the rarest benign bone tumors, which often involves the metaphysis of long tubular bones, especially the femur, tibia, fibula, and calcaneus. Bone lipoma can be characterized by chronic dull pain but can also be asymptomatic most of the time. As a result, it is less likely to attract people’s attention and is occasionally diagnosed through imaging examination during routine physical health check-up.

CASE SUMMARY

We describe a clinical case of intraosseous lipoma in a 21-year-old patient with chronic pain in the left lower limb for four years without any significant physical findings apart from the minimal swelling and local tenderness over the median ankle. Computerized tomography suggested the possibility of a lipoma on the left distal tibia, but the pathological examination could make a definite diagnosis. The intraosseous lipoma of the left distal tibia was treated by surgical curettage, bone graft, and internal fixation with steel plate, since the conservative treatment is often ineffective. Postoperatively, the patient made an uneventful recovery and was able to do daily activities without any restrictions. In addition, local recurrence of the intraosseous lipoma was not reported in subsequent reexamination.

CONCLUSION

Bone lipoma is very rare and often exhibits no characteristic clinical manifestation. The confirmative diagnosis of lipoma largely relies on a combination of imageology and biopsy. Surgical intervention is often recommended as a conventional therapy for bone lipoma. Postoperatively, the patient makes an uneventful recovery with a good prognosis, and the local recurrence of the tumor is also a low probability event.
Border Time: Policing Movement in the Rio Grande Valley
Authors: Hattam Victoria
Published: January 2025

Abstract: The southern border of the United States has been policed intensively for over half a century. Donald Trump and many other global political leaders have narrowed their policy focuses from bordering more generally to building walls. Even short trips to the US-Mexico border make clear that the wall is not a continuous integrated structure. On the contrary, the wall is fragmented by design. Attending to the materialization of the wall, to the bits and pieces, puts the question: How is political authority operating here? Rather than assuming fragmentation to be a sign of weakness, I suggest we shift in analysis of border policing from space to time. I draw evidence from government documents, site visits, and photographs.
Penal Violence in Spaces of Precarity
Authors: Super Gail
Published: January 2025

Abstract: Drawing on Walter Benjamin’s argument that liberal law is founded on and preserved through violence and on Hannah Arendt’s and Frantz Fanon’s ideas on the unpredictability of violence, this article uses the term penal violence to highlight the violence of lawful (state) punishment and the overlaps between different forms of lawful state violence and extralegal/extrajudicial violence. Focusing on South Africa, I argue that there is an ever-present possibility of law’s (legal) violence transgressing its own fictitious boundary (of reasonableness and nonviolence) and spiraling into unlawful (excessive and visible) violence. Adopting a multiscalar spatiotemporal approach to analyze extralegal violence by civilians in informal settlements, by the police when they engage in unlawful violence, and by prison wardens when they inflict excessive violence inside prisons, I emphasize the connections between law and violence, those between punishment and vengeance, and the malleability of violence.
Improved SPGD algorithm for optical phased array chip phase error correction in Lidar applications
Authors: Shi Tao , Cheng Yu , Du Xudong , Chen Jinhua , Ji Chen
Published: January 2025

Random phase errors in silicon-photonic-based OPA (optical phased array) chips can significantly affect their output beam quality, making efficient phase error correction an important requirement for Lidar systems utilizing OPA chip technology. We report an improved ASPGD algorithm for performing OPA random phase error correction with high efficiency and accuracy, especially for large channel count designs. We successfully demonstrated the ASPGD algorithm phase error calibration capability using a fabricated 16-channel chip, and we also showed that the ASPGD algorithm has significantly faster convergence and higher cosine similarity values for the corrected output beam profile compared with traditional SPGD and genetic algorithms, especially for higher channel count OPA chip designs. We believe our work can make an important contribution to the field deployment of OPA technology for chip scale long-range Lidar applications.
Design, fabrication, testing, and packaging of the 1 × 8 power splitter developed under the SOI platform
Authors: Valdiviezo Jeffry Martínez , Peyton Roberto , Rodriguez Juan Manuel , Della Salda Raúl , Abadía Nicolás , Torchia Gustavo A.
Published: January 2025

This paper presents a brief roadmap to design and fabricate a final device corresponding to a 1×8 power splitter developed under the silicon-on-insulator (SOI) platform. To describe the entire technological process for the power splitter, first, we begin by designing and validating our proposed photonic circuit through calculations using several computational routines supported by popular numerical methods, such as the finite-difference time-domain (FDTD) and beam propagation methods (BPM). In the second step, the technological platform employed for fabricating the designed optical circuit is briefly described. Subsequently, the primary objective of this paper is presented, which is to provide a detailed introduction and explanation of the assembly process, including the positioning and coupling of the optical signal to the chip and the integration of all components. Additionally, we developed the packaging process, designing the case to include internal pieces and the external housing suitable for the final system, including fiber optics input/output interfaces. In this final step, all internal and cover components for the packaging were fabricated using 3D printing.
Key considerations for effective optical excitation of low-temperature-grown gallium arsenide terahertz emitters
Authors: Spotts Isaac , Mitchell Michael E. , Ty Christopher G. D. , Holzman Jonathan F. , Collier Christopher M.
Published: January 2025

This work shows the characterization and optimization of the optical
excitation conditions for low-temperature-grown gallium arsenide
(LT-GaAs) terahertz (THz) emitters, given attention to the numerical
aperture (NA) of the microscope objective and its defocusing distance.
Our pump-probe transmission and THz emission analyses show that low-NA
(0.35) and high-NA (0.65) microscope objectives photoexcite charge
carriers within the LT-GaAs epilayer and semi-insulating GaAs
(SI-GaAs) substrate. However, only the high-NA (0.65) microscope
objective can localize the charge carriers in the LT-GaAs epilayer.
The defocusing distance for this objective can then be varied to fully
optimize the THz bandwidth and dynamic range.
Flexible X-ray Talbot-Lau interferometer and its theory
Authors: Wu Zhao , Zan Guibin , Lin Qisi , Guan Yong , Tian Lijiao , Gao Kun , Wang Zhili , Zhu Peiping , Yun Wenbing , Liu Gang , Lu Yalin , Tian Yangchao
Published: January 2025

X-ray Talbot-Lau interferometer, offering multi-contrast for the imaged objects, has shown powerful capacity in imaging biological soft tissues, low density materials, etc. However, the length of the system is constant, which limits its applications. Here, we establish a new X-ray Talbot-Lau interferometer theory to achieve a flexible phase contrast imaging system. This interferometer has a tunable length-scale scattering sensitivity. The experiments show that we can regulate the scattering signal individually. Furthermore, we construct a G2-less phase contrast imaging based on this flexible interferometer to validate the possibility of highly compact X-ray Talbot-Lau interferometer.
Thermo-optical switch with wavelength division multiplexing function
Authors: Zeng Guoyan , Zhang Daming , Sun Xiaoqiang , Wu Yuanda , Yokoyama Shiyoshi , Yin Yuexin
Published: January 2025

Flexible and compact optical switch is important for optical communications. In this Letter, a thermo-optical switch with wavelength division (de)multiplexing (WDM) function has been proposed and demonstrated experimentally. The switch is comprised of a 1 × 2 Bezier multimode interferometer (MMI) and an angled multimode interferometer (AMMI). The switch separates 1490 and 1550 nm wavelengths and realizes path reconfiguration simultaneously. The demonstrated device with a footprint of 13.63 × 0.385 mm2 is built on a 2% refractive index difference silica platform. The excess loss is lower than 1.2 dB (the reference waveguide loss is larger than 5.6 dB). In the central wavelength, the cross talk is lower than −21.7 dB and the extinction ratio is larger than 21.7 dB. The 3 dB bandwidth is larger than 30.8 nm. The wavelength shift rates of central wavelength are ∼54 pm/nm in C band and ∼74.8 pm/nm in the S band with the width of the AMMI changed. The rise (10%–90%) and fall (90%–10%) times of the switch are 0.88 and 0.94 ms, respectively, with a maximum power consumption of 246.6  mW. The demonstrated switch combines WDM and router functions together. Scalability property makes it possible for a large port count number switch.
Femtosecond pulses at 914 nm without mode-locking using Nd-doped fiber amplifiers
Authors: Florentin Raphaël , Viry Arnaud , Corre Kilian Le , Robin Thierry , Georges Thierry , Santarelli Giorgio , Gilles Hervé , Girard Sylvain , Laroche Mathieu
Published: January 2025

We present a fiber laser system that generates femtosecond pulses at 914 nm from a continuous-wave solid-state laser source and using Nd-doped fiber amplifiers. This femtosecond laser architecture without mode-locking is based on picosecond pulse shaping by an electro-optic modulator followed by a Mamyshev regenerator to shorten the pulses down to 8 ps. Additional spectral broadening by self-phase modulation results in an output pulse spectrum of 10 nm, allowing the generation of nearly transform-limited 230 fs pulses.
Monolithic dual-wavelength high-power DFB laser with sub-100 kHz linewidth for THz application
Authors: Liu Te-Hua , Tu You-Yu , Lu Yi-Hsuan , Yang Sung-Pu , Wu Chao-Hsin
Published: January 2025

We report an optimized monolithic dual-wavelength distributed feedback (DFB) laser for terahertz (THz) applications, designed to address the challenges of complexity, cost, and power efficiency in a THz transmitter. This laser can achieve a high optical power of 65.93 mW. Under a wide temperature range and high-bias current, the power difference between the two primary modes remains below 1 dB, with each side-mode suppression ratio exceeding 36 dB. Additionally, the two primary modes exhibit low relative intensity noise peaks of −153.88 dB/Hz and −153.46 dB/Hz and narrow linewidths of 117.33 kHz and 70.59 kHz, demonstrating stable and high-performance dual-wavelength operation. These results underscore the potential of the dual-wavelength (DW)-DFB laser as a compact and cost-effective solution for THz systems.
Discovery of non-retinoid compounds that suppress the pathogenic effects of misfolded rhodopsin in a mouse model of retinitis pigmentosa
Authors: Ortega Joseph T. , Gallagher Jacklyn M. , McKee Andrew G. , Tang Yidan , Carmena-Bargueňo Miguel , Azam Maria , Pashandi Zaiddodine , Golczak Marcin , Meiler Jens , Pérez-Sánchez Horacio , Schlebach Jonathan P. , Jastrzebska Beata
Published: January 2025

Pathogenic mutations that cause rhodopsin misfolding lead to a spectrum of currently untreatable blinding diseases collectively termed retinitis pigmentosa. Small molecules to correct rhodopsin misfolding are therefore urgently needed. In this study, we utilized virtual screening to search for drug-like molecules that bind to the orthosteric site of rod opsin and improve its folding and trafficking. We identified and validated the biological effects of 2 non-retinoid compounds with favorable pharmacological properties that cross the blood–retina barrier. These compounds reversibly bind to unliganded rod opsin, each with a Kd comparable to 9-cis-retinal and improve opsin stability. By improving the internal protein structure network (PSN), these rod opsin ligands also enhanced the plasma membrane expression of total 36 of 123 tested clinical RP variants, including the most prevalent P23H variant. Importantly, these compounds protected retinas against light-induced degeneration in mice vulnerable to bright light injury and prolonged survival of photoreceptors in a retinitis pigmentosa mouse model for rod opsin misfolding.
Optimal control of agent-based models via surrogate modeling
Authors: Fonseca Luis L. , Böttcher Lucas , Mehrad Borna , Laubenbacher Reinhard C.
Published: January 2025

This paper describes and validates an algorithm to solve optimal control problems for agent-based models (ABMs). For a given ABM and a given optimal control problem, the algorithm derives a surrogate model, typically lower-dimensional, in the form of a system of ordinary differential equations (ODEs), solves the control problem for the surrogate model, and then transfers the solution back to the original ABM. It applies to quite general ABMs and offers several options for the ODE structure, depending on what information about the ABM is to be used. There is a broad range of applications for such an algorithm, since ABMs are used widely in the life sciences, such as ecology, epidemiology, and biomedicine and healthcare, areas where optimal control is an important purpose for modeling, such as for medical digital twin technology.
Contribution of epidermal growth factor (EGF) in the treatment of cutaneous leishmaniasis caused by Leishmania major in BALB/c mice
Authors: Saberi Mohammad , Latifi Alireza , Golkar Majid , Fard-Esfahani Pezhman , Mohtasebi Sina , Teimouri Aref , Abbaszadeh Afshar Mohammad Javad , Kazemirad Elham , Mohebali Mehdi
Published: January 2025

Cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) is a tropical disease that can cause chronic lesions and leave life-long scars, leading to social stigmatization and psychological disorders. Using growth factors and immunomodulatory agents that could accelerate wound healing and reduce the scar is highly demanded. Epidermal growth factor (EGF) plays an essential role in wound healing. It stimulates the proliferation of keratocytes and fibroblasts, and promotes re-epithelialization. Here, the effect of EGF in combination with Glucantime and nano-liposomal Amphotericin B (SinaAmpholeish) on the healing process of CL in BALB/c mice was investigated. Seventy-two mice were infected with Leishmania major parasites and randomly divided into eight treatment groups after the appearance of the lesion. The treatment was continued for five weeks, and lesion sizes were measured weekly. Parasite load was determined in the skin biopsies using qPCR. We found that subcutaneous injection of EGF at 4.5 μg/kg, combined with each of the two antileishmanial drugs, significantly reduced the wound size and parasite load; however, EGF at 1.5 μg/kg failed to be effective. Besides, the wound size and parasite loads were significantly lower in the SinaAmfoleish groups compared to the Glucantime groups. Among the treatment groups, EGF 4.5 μg/kg combined with SinaAmpholeish exhibited the most significant reduction in wound size and parasitic load. Our results suggest that EGF can potentiate the wound healing effect of antileishmanial drugs. Further studies are warranted to explore the beneficial effects of combining EGF with antileishmanial drugs in patients with cutaneous leishmaniasis in order to accelerate wound healing and reduce the scar.
Vitamin D, acute respiratory infections, and Covid-19: The curse of small-size randomised trials. A critical review with meta-analysis of randomised trials
Authors: Autier Philippe , Doi Giulia , Mullie Patrick , Vankrunkelsven Patrick , D’Ecclesiis Oriana , Gandini Sara
Published: January 2025

Background

Randomised trials conducted from 2006 to 2021 indicated that vitamin D supplementation (VDS) was able to prevent severe COVID-19 and acute respiratory infections (ARI). However, larger randomised trials published in 2022 did not confirm the health benefits of VDS in COVID-19 patients.

Objective

To examine through a systematic review with meta-analysis the characteristics of randomised trials on VDS to COVID-19 patients and admission to intensive care unit (ICU), and of randomised trials on VDS for the prevention of ARI.

Method

A systematic search retrieved randomised trials on VDS to COVID-19 patients and admission to ICU. Data on VDS and ARI were extracted from the meta-analysis of Jolliffe et al. 2021. Groups were formed including trials with total numbers of patients below or above the median size of all trials. The associations between VDS vs no VDS, and admission to ICU were evaluated using random-effects models from which summary odds ratios (SOR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were obtained. Meta-analyses were done for all trials and for each group of trials, which allowed testing a possible effect modification of trial size. Publication bias was assessed using the Louis-Furuya-Kanaruori (LFK) index (no bias if index between -1 and +1) and the trim and fill method.

Results

Nine trials on VDS for preventing admission to ICU were identified, including 50 to 548 patients. The summary odds ratio (SOR) was 0.61 (95% CI: 0.39–0.95) for all trials, 0.34 (0.13–0.93) for trials including 50 to <106 patients and 0.88 (0.62–1.24) for trials including 106 to 548 patients (interaction p = 0.04). The LFK index was -3.79, and after trim and fill, the SOR was 0.80 (0.40–1.61). The SOR for the 37 trials on VDS for ARI prevention included 25 to 16,000 patients. The SOR was 0.92 (0.86–0.99) for all trials, 0.69 (0.57–0.83) for trials including 25 to <248 patients and 0.98 (0.94–1.03) for trials including 248 to 16,000 patients (interaction p = 0.0001). The LFK index was -3.11, and after trim and fill, the SOR was 0.96 (0.88–1.05).

Conclusion

Strong publication bias affected small randomised trials on VDS for the prevention of severe COVID-19 and of ARI. Systematic reviews should beware of small-size randomised trials that generally exaggerate health benefits.
Study on the effect of water content on physical properties of bentonite
Authors: Zheng Chao , Yuan Yanzhao
Published: January 2025

Moisture content profoundly influences the engineering properties of expansive soil, a critical consideration in various geotechnical applications. This study delves into the intricate relationship between water content and the physical properties of bentonite, a key constituent of expansive soil. Through a comprehensive analysis encompassing fundamental physical properties, rheological characteristics, permeability behavior, and microscopic features, we elucidate the complex interplay between water content and bentonite behavior. Our investigation reveals distinct responses to varying moisture levels: at low water content (w = 50%), unsaturated samples undergo incremental density increases attributed to moisture accumulation among particles. Concomitantly, heightened pressure fosters enhanced cohesion between particles, bolstering mechanical properties and augmenting reverse osmosis capacity. Conversely, at higher water content levels (w > w saturated), the escalation of free water within soil particles triggers pronounced particle softening, overshadowing expansion effects. Consequently, cohesion diminishes, and particles exhibit micro-scale flocculation. These findings offer valuable insights into bentonite behavior under differing moisture regimes, thereby providing a robust theoretical foundation for projects requiring bentonite seepage control.
Factors influencing secondary school students’ nutrition, mindfulness, and academic performance in Nan Province, Thailand
Authors: Lwin Ei Zar , Watthanakulpanich Dorn , Phetrak Athit , Soonthornworasiri Ngamphol , Prangthip Pattaneeya
Published: January 2025

Academic performance is crucial for future educational endeavors of students. However, there has been a concerning decline over time. This study aimed to investigate the association between nutritional status, environmental factors, mindfulness, and academic performance among students at Bo Kluea School in Nan province, Thailand. A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 350 students in grades 8–11 using questionnaires, measurements, and academic records. Results showed that female students performed significantly better academically compared to males(71.9% vs 56.4% achieving good grades; compared to p < 0.001, OR = 3.583, 95%CI = 1.663–7.719). Age, junk food consumption, BMI, and mindfulness were identified as factors influencing academic performance. Students aged 16–18 years were 2.224 times more likely to achieve good academic performance compared to younger students (p = 0.015, OR = 2.224, 95%CI = 1.164–4.247). Significant associations were found between gender, age, waist circumference, mindfulness, and nutritional status. Female students and those with normal waist circumference or good mindfulness were more likely to have a normal BMI (p = 0.019, OR = 1.794, 95%CI = 1.101–2.922). Positive attitudes towards nutrition were associated with better academic performance (60.1% achieving good grades;p = 0.044, AOR = 1.543, 95%CI = 1.010–2.356). This study highlights the interconnectedness of these factors and their importance in in improving academic results. Further research is need to confirm these findings and overcome study limitations.
Psychological detachment from work predicts mental wellbeing of working-age adults: Findings from the ‘Wellbeing of the Workforce’ (WoW) prospective longitudinal cohort study
Authors: Blake Holly , Hassard Juliet , Thomson Louise , Choo Wei Hoong , Dulal-Arthur Teixiera , Karanika-Murray Maria , Delic Lana , Pickford Richard , Rudkin Lou
Published: January 2025

Background

There is an urgent need to better understand the factors that predict mental wellbeing in vocationally active adults during globally turbulent times.

Aim

To explore the relationship between psychological detachment from work (postulated as a key recovery activity from work) in the first national COVID-19 lockdown with health, wellbeing, and life satisfaction of working age-adults one year later, within the context of a global pandemic.

Methods

Wellbeing of the Workforce (WoW) was a prospective longitudinal cohort study, with two waves of data collection (Time 1, April-June 2020: T1 n = 337; Time 2, March-April 2021: T2 = 169) corresponding with the first and third national COVID-19 lockdowns in the UK. Participants were >18 years, who were employed or self-employed and working in the UK. Descriptive and parametric (t-tests and linear regression) and nonparametric (chi square tests) inferential statistics were employed.

Results

Risk for major depression (T1: 20.0% to T2: 29.0%, p = .002), poor general health (T1: 4.7% to T2: 0%, p = .002) and poor life satisfaction (T1: 15.4% to T2: 25.4%, p = .002) worsened over time, moderate-to-severe anxiety remained stable (T1: 26.1% to T2: 30.2%, p = .15). Low psychological detachment from work was more prevalent in the first wave (T1: 21.4% and T2: 16.0%), with a moderate improvement observed from T1 to T2 (t (129) = -7.09, p < .001). No differences were observed with work status (employed/self-employed), except for self-employed workers being more likely to report poor general health at T1 (16.1%, p = .002). Better psychological wellbeing, lower anxiety and higher life satisfaction at T2 were observed in those who reported better psychological detachment from work at T1 (β = .21, p = .01; β = -.43, p < .001; β = .32, p = .003, respectively), and in those who improved in this recovery activity from T1 to T2 (β = .36, p < .001; β = -.27, p < .001; β = .27, p = .008, respectively), controlling for age, gender and ethnicity.

Conclusion

The ability to psychologically detach from work during the first pandemic lockdown, and improvement in this recovery activity over time, predicted better mental wellbeing and quality of life in vocationally active adults after one year of a global crisis, irrespective of work status. Interventions to encourage workers to psychologically detach from work may help to support employee wellbeing at all times, not only in the extreme circumstances of pandemics and economic uncertainty.
Acceptability of a dapivirine levonorgestrel vaginal ring in two Phase 1 trials (MTN-030/IPM 041 and MTN-044/IPM 053/CCN019): Implications for multipurpose prevention technology development
Authors: Friedland Barbara A. , Gundacker Holly , Achilles Sharon L. , Chen Beatrice A. , Hoesley Craig , Richardson Barbra A. , Kelly Clifton W. , Piper Jeanna , Johnson Sherri , Devlin Brid , Steytler John , Kleinbeck Kyle , Dangi Bindi , Friend Chantél , Song Mei , Mensch Barbara , van der Straten Ariane , Jacobson Cindy , Hendrix Craig W. , Brown Jill , Blithe Diana , Hiller Sharon L. ,   on behalf of the MTN-030/IPM 041 and MTN-044/IPM 053/CCN019 Protocol Teams for the Microbicide Trials Network and the Contraceptive Clinical Trials Network
Published: January 2025

End-user feedback early in product development is important for optimizing multipurpose prevention technologies for HIV and pregnancy prevention. We evaluated the acceptability of the 90-day dapivirine levonorgestrel ring (DPV-LNG ring) used for 14 days compared to a dapivirine-only ring (DVR-200mg) in MTN-030/IPM 041 (n = 23), and when used for 90 days cyclically or continuously in MTN-044/IPM 053/CCN019 (n = 25). We enrolled healthy, non-pregnant, HIV-negative women aged 18–45 in Pittsburgh, PA and Birmingham, AL (MTN-030 only). Self-reports of vaginal bleeding and adherence (ring removals, expulsions) were collected via daily short message service. Acceptability data were recorded in face-to-face interviews at study exit. We assessed differences in acceptability by product characteristics and adherence; and associations between baseline characteristics/demographics, number of bleeding days, adherence, and overall acceptability. Most (21/23) women in the 14-day MTN-030 study and about half (13/25) in the 90-day MTN-044 study liked their assigned rings. In MTN-030 there were no significant associations between any variables and overall acceptability of either ring. In MTN-044, women who disliked the DPV-LNG ring had a significantly higher incidence of unanticipated vaginal bleeding, and reporting that vaginal bleeding changes were unacceptable than those who liked it. Although we found no overall association between adherence and acceptability, significantly more women who disliked (versus liked) the DPV-LNG ring reported expulsions during toileting. The DPV-LNG ring could meet the needs of women seeking simultaneous protection from HIV and unintended pregnancy. Addressing issues related to vaginal bleeding and expulsions early in product development will likely enhance acceptability of the DPV-LNG ring.

Trial registration: Clinical Trial Registration: MTN-030/IPM 041: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02855346; MTN-044/IPM 053/CCN019: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03467347.
The intersection of finTech adoption, HR competency potential, service innovation, and firm growth in the banking sectors using Entropy and TOPSIS
Authors: Khan Habib Ullah , Abbas Muhammad , Nazir Shah , Khan Faheem , Moon Yeon-kug
Published: January 2025

The adoption of Financial Technology (FinTech), along with the enhancement of Human Resource (HR) competencies, service innovation, and firm growth, plays a crucial role in the development of the banking sector. Despite their importance, obtaining reliable results is often challenging due to the complex, high-dimensional correlations among various features that affect the industry. To address this issue, this research introduces a hybrid Multi-Criteria Decision-Making (MCDM) model that integrates the Entropy-Weighted Method (EWM) and the Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS). The primary objective of this study is to systematically evaluate and rank multiple alternatives based on key criteria using the EWM-TOPSIS approaches. Specifically, the analysis considers eleven multifaceted characteristics and eight potential alternatives (A1 to A8), revealing the significant influence of the proposed MCDM approaches in assessing FinTech adoption, HR competency, service innovation, and firm growth. The findings underscore the effectiveness of the entropy-TOPSIS approaches in providing a structured analysis for a smarter and well-informed decision-making. Ultimately, this research proposes the best alternative from the evaluated options, contributing valuable insights into the future role of FinTech, HR competencies, service innovation, and firm growth within the banking sector.
DCFE-YOLO: A novel fabric defect detection method
Authors: Zhou Lei , Ma Bingya , Dong Yanyan , Yin Zhewen , Lu Fan
Published: January 2025

Accurate detection of fabric defects is crucial for quality control in the textile industry. However, the task of fabric defect detection remains highly challenging due to the complex textures and diverse defect patterns. To address the issues of inaccurate localization and false positives caused by complex textures and varying defect sizes, this paper proposes an improved YOLOv8-based fabric defect detection method. First, Dynamic Snake Convolution is introduced into the backbone network to enhance sensitivity to elongated and subtle defects, improving the extraction of edge and texture details. Second, a Channel Priority Convolutional Attention mechanism is incorporated after the Spatial Pyramid Pooling layer to enable more precise defect localization by leveraging multi-scale structures and channel priors. Finally, the feature fusion network integrates Partial Convolution and Efficient Multi-scale Attention, optimizing the fusion of information across different feature levels and spatial scales, which enhances the richness and accuracy of feature representations while reducing computational complexity. Experimental results demonstrate a significant improvement in detection performance. Specifically, mAP@0.5 increased by 2.9%, precision improved by 3.5%, and mAP@0.5:0.95 rose by 2.3%, highlighting the model’s superior capability in detecting complex defects. The project is available at https://github.com/lilian998/fabric.
Saffron’s protective role against atherosclerosis-induced cataract progression in New Zealand white rabbits with phytochemical analysis of saffron’s extract
Authors: Mohd Zainal Abidin Shukri Yasmin , Abd Rahim Iman Nabilah , Abdul Nasir Nurul Alimah , Osman Che Puteh , Mohd Kasim Noor Alicezah
Published: January 2025

Cataracts are significant causes of blindness, closely linked to prolonged hypercholesterolemia. While saffron has the potential for eye health, its effects on lens lesions remain understudied. This study aimed to investigate the effect of saffron on the lens changes in atherosclerotic-induced New Zealand white rabbits (NZWR). Thirty-five NZWRs were subjected to four to eight weeks of high-cholesterol diet to induce atherosclerosis, resulting in cataractous lens changes. The rabbits were categorised randomly into three groups: normal diet group, pre-treated group and treated group. The pre-treated group was divided into early atherosclerosis(HC4) and established atherosclerosis (HC8). The saffron-treated group was fed with the HCD diet followed by saffron treatment of 50mg/kg/day (TG450, TG840) and 100mg/kg/day (TG4100, TG8100) of saffron ethanolic extract (SEE) respectively. The normal diet group was given a normal diet over the 8 weeks. After completing the 16-week experimental protocol, the NZWR were euthanized, and their lenses were extracted for histopathological evaluation. The pre-treated group exhibited cataractous lens changes of grade 2, characterized by increased homogenisation, swollen lens fibers, and intracellular vacuolisation. Interestingly, these cataract changes showed a positive trend from grade 2 to grade 1 post-treatment with SEE. In the saffron-treated group, vacuoles and pinkish homogenised areas were reduced. Additionally, a uniform layer of anterior epithelium and decreased non-swollen lens fibers indicated significant cataract lesion improvement. The normal diet group displayed minimal to zero cataractous changes (Grade 0). HPLC analysis demonstrated the presence of crocin, crocetin, and picocrocin in the saffron ethanolic extract, with peak absorptions at 440nm (12.817min), 440nm (1.620min), and 254nm (6.553min) respectively. The phytochemical screening of saffron ethanolic extract was conducted and showed the presence of phytochemical compounds including saponins, flavonoids, tannins, and steroids. The positive effects on lenses in the TG groups could be due to crocin and crocetin, bioactive components of saffron, and its phytochemical compounds. This study highlights saffron’s potential in managing cataract-induced conditions, emphasizing the importance of further research for its full therapeutic potential in cataract management.
Efficiency of four trap types and human landing catch in the sampling of Mansonia (Diptera, Culicidae) in Porto Velho, Rondônia, Brazil
Authors: Furtado Nercy Virginia Rabelo , Saraiva José Ferreira , Ribeiro Kaio Nabas , Fernandes Neto Noel Santos , Barroso Jéssica Fernanda dos Santos , Rodovalho Cynara de Melo , Carvalho Dario Pires , Galardo Allan Kardec Ribeiro , Lima José Bento Pereira
Published: January 2025

Entomological surveillance plays a crucial role in designing and implementing mosquito control measures. In this context, developing more effective collection strategies is essential to accurately estimate the entomological parameters necessary for effective control. In this study, we investigated the effectiveness of four traps: CDC light trap, MosqTent, BG-Sentinel, and SkeeterVac, compared to human landing catch (HLC) in the collection of Mansonia mosquitoes, known to cause discomfort to riverside populations along the Madeira River in the District of Jaci Paraná, Porto Velho, in Rondônia state, Brazil. Sampling was conducted, during three periods corresponding to two seasons, dry and rainy, over five consecutive days for each period. The captures using HLC and the installation of the traps took place on the grounds of five selected residences from 6 to 10 pm. Rotational exchanges between houses ensured that all traps and the HLC were used in each of the five residences, following a predetermined Latin square pattern. A total of 7,080 mosquitoes were collected, of which 90.5% belonged to the Mansonia genus, distributed in four species: Mansonia titillans (75.97%), Mansonia humeralis (18.91%), Mansonia amazonensis (1.90%), and Mansonia indubitans (1.37%). HLC captured the highest number of Mansonia mosquitoes (58.1%), followed by SkeeterVac (21.8%) and MosqTent (18.9%). CDC and BG-Sentinel showed a very low performance (0.92 and 0.23%, respectively). Although HLC performed better in capturing Mansonia, our results suggest that SkeeterVac and MosqTent can serve as valuable additional tools to entomological inventories or sentinels for detecting invasive species in areas with high epidemiological vulnerability, thereby providing evidence-based recommendations for improving mosquito control measures and entomological surveillance.
The relationship between social safeness and pleasure and resilience levels among university athletes: A descriptive study
Authors: Temel Veysel , Özçelik Nurhan Hümeyra
Published: January 2025

This study investigates the correlation between social safeness and pleasure and resilience among university students engaged in sports. A total of 350 participants (mean age, 21.09 ± 3.12 years), comprising 239 females and 111 males, were included in the sample. Data collection utilized the "Social Safeness and Pleasure and Resilience Scales". Normality of data was assessed using skewness and kurtosis tests, confirming normal distribution. Pairwise comparisons were conducted using t-tests, multiple comparisons via one-way ANOVA, and relationship analysis employed Pearson Product Moment Correlation. Findings indicate participants scored above mid-level on the social safeness and pleasure scale (Mean = 2.6), and resilience scale (Mean = 3.7). Specifically, social support dimension mean score was above mid-level (Mean = 4.01), emotional coping (Mean = 3.4), and situational coping (Mean = 3.8). Pearson Product Moment Correlation revealed a statistically significant positive relationship between social safeness and pleasure scale scores and resilience scale scores (r = .652, p < .001). This descriptive study sheds light on the interplay between social and emotional factors and resilience among university athletes.
Multidimensional well-being and income inequality in Central and Eastern Europe: A comparative analysis of CEE North and CEE Continental countries
Authors: Geise Andrzej , Szczepaniak Małgorzata
Published: January 2025

Central Eastern European countries (CEEc) are characterized both by huge diversity in income inequality and, on average, by lower levels of well-being than in the other European Union (EU) countries. Given that income inequality may affect well-being negatively, the present study aims to explore the links between income inequalities and different dimensions of well-being in the eight CEEc, i.e. Poland, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Slovenia, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, and Estonia. The analysis is conducted in the two groups of CEEc regarding low and high inequality in income distribution, namely CEE Continental group and CEE North group (corresponding to post-socialist corporatist and post-socialist liberal, respectively). The multidimensional concept of well-being is applied, enabling deep exploration of its links with income inequalities in the following dimensions: subjective well-being (happiness) and objective well-being (material, health, educational, and environmental dimensions). We estimate the vector autoregression (VAR) models based on annual data disaggregated into quarterly data covering 2004 to 2020. The empirical results of Granger causality testing, which was used to investigate the links between income inequality and multidimensional well-being, indicated that not only are there differences between the groups in the studied patterns of interconnectedness, but also the groups of CEE North and CEE Continental countries are not homogeneous in those links.