bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Variational Path Sampling of Rare Dynamical Events
Authors: Singh Aditya N. , Das Avishek , Limmer David T.
Published: February 2025

This article reviews the concepts and methods of variational path sampling. These methods allow computational studies of rare events in systems driven arbitrarily far from equilibrium. Based upon a statistical mechanics of trajectory space and leveraging the theory of large deviations, they provide a perspective from which dynamical phenomena can be studied with the same types of ensemble reweighting ideas that have been used for static equilibrium properties. Applications to chemical, material, and biophysical systems are highlighted.
Ushering in Ab Initio Quantum Chemistry
Authors: Ruedenberg Klaus
Published: February 2025

The present autobiography recounts the author's education in the liberal arts, physics, and chemistry, and his participation in various developing stages of ab initio quantum chemistry from its beginning around 1950 to the present. His personal history is briefly noted.
Endoscopic Removal of Sinonasal Inverted Papilloma Originating From the Posterior Ethmoid Cavity
Authors: Olsson Sofia E. , Peña René
Published: February 2025

Sinonasal inverted papilloma is an expansive, benign mass derived from the Schneiderian membrane. It may undergo malignant transformation and most commonly originates from the maxillary sinuses or the lateral walls of the nasal corridors. This case outlines the case of a sinonasal inverted papilloma, which clearly arises from the posterior ethmoid sinus, bordering the skull base. This abnormal originating point was able to be identified during endoscopic excision of the mass and involved mucosa. The ethmoid bone was not resected as it would expose the dura mater, risking CSF leak and complications. This case further supports the use of endoscopy in the investigation of sinonasal inverted papilloma rather than the gold standard approach of lateral rhinotomy. An endoscopic approach allowed for improved safety when accessing the posterior ethmoid cavity. This case also highlights the possibility of novel origins of sinonasal inverted papilloma, such as the membrane of the posterior ethmoid cavity.
Low‐Dose Oral Minoxidil in Lichen Planopilaris: Efficacy and Safety
Authors: Saber Mina , Dehghani Shaghayegh , Fatemi Naeini Farahnaz , Mohaghegh Fatemeh
Published: February 2025

Background: Treating lichen planopilaris (LPP) is challenging for dermatologists. Along with anti‐inflammatory agents, another goal of treatment is to improve hair thickness in unaffected areas to cover the scars.

Aim: To evaluate the effectiveness and safety of adding low‐dose oral minoxidil (OM) to the standard anti‐inflammatory treatment of LPP.

Method: A total of 37 patients with LPP were randomly assigned to receive either 15 mg/week methotrexate (MTX) plus topical clobetasol or 1 mg/day minoxidil in addition to MTX plus clobetasol for 6 months. The Lichen Planopilaris Activity Index (LPPAI), dermoscopy, and standard photography evaluated the treatment efficacy.

Results: Both groups exhibited a significant improvement in LPPAI (p < 0.001). The following signs/symptoms demonstrated notable improvements in frequency and/or severity in both groups: pruritus, anagen pull test, follicular prominency, scalp erythema, perifollicular erythema, milky red area, and pigmentation. However, pain, burning sensation, hair tufting, and spreading only improved in the MTX + low‐dose OM group. Elongated blood vessels did not improve in either group. In terms of hair thickness and density, there was no significant difference between the two groups.

Conclusion: The addition of 1 mg/day minoxidil to the standard treatment of LPP was found to be safe but did not yield significant effects on LPPAI and hair density/thickness. Notably, two patients who received low‐dose OM (2/19, 10.5%) showed hair regrowth in scarring areas. Trials with higher doses of minoxidil may be promising.

Trial Registration: Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials: IRCT20220528055005N1
ICP‐MS Method for Simultaneous Determination of Aluminum, Sodium, and Potassium in Human Albumin Solution for Infusion
Authors: Gundogdu Sena Ozlem , Aytimur Yeliz , Turhan Seda , Sahin Adem
Published: February 2025

Elemental impurities in drug products may pose a risk to patient health. Therefore, maintaining the levels of these impurities below certain limits is essential for patient safety. Human albumin solution, one of the parenteral drugs used for many years, is crucial in various treatments. Also, the European Pharmacopoeia specifies limits for potassium, aluminum, and sodium in this drug. Inductively coupled plasma–atomic absorption spectrometry (ICP‐AAS) and ICP–optical emission spectrometry (ICP‐OES) are used for detecting elemental impurities. However, neither method can simultaneously analyze all three impurities within the pharmacopeial limits. This study aimed to develop a new method for simultaneously detecting the levels of potassium, aluminum, and sodium in human albumin–based drugs using ICP–mass spectrometry (ICP‐MS). The limit of detection (LOD), specificity, linearity, repeatability, and accuracy were examined, and the recovery percentage was calculated. For Na, K, and Al elements, detection limits were calculated as 0.0105767 μg/mL, 0.001748 μg/mL, and 2.0568E − 4 μg/mL, respectively. Precision and reliability of this method have been proven by the linearity regression coefficients that were found as 0.999, 0.999, and 0.995 for Na, K, and Al. In addition, repeatability recovery rates were 98.70%, 98.38%, and 90.83%; accuracy analysis results were 101.45%, 94.53%, and 108.83% for 50% level; 98.26%, 93.93%, and 95.83% for 100% level; 100.48%, 95.90%, and 107.22% for 150% level for Na, K, and Al elements, respectively. This study successfully developed and validated ICP‐MS for the simultaneous quantitative determination of the levels of potassium, aluminum, and sodium in human albumin solution.
Organizational Work, Well‐Being, and Quality of Life at an Elderly Age: The Case of Cyprus
Authors: Papageorgiou George , Athanasiadou Panagiota , Tsappi Elena , Xergia Sofia A. , Maimaris Athanasios , Efstathiades Andreas
Published: February 2025

This study investigates the impact of postretirement organizational work on the well‐being and overall quality of life of the elderly population in Cyprus. Specifically, it evaluates the multifaceted effects of continued employment after retirement, based on data collected through a survey administered to a representative sample of elderly Cypriots. The research findings, informed by prominent instruments in the field, demonstrate significant enhancements in autonomy, self‐actualization, and both physical and psychological well‐being for the elderly as a result of continuing to work beyond retirement age. Through inferential statistical analysis, the study identifies several key factors contributing to significant improvements in people’s lives. Particularly, the findings reveal a positive correlation between sustained employment and several aspects of quality of life, challenging conventional views on retirement. These insights hold particular relevance for the Cypriot context and suggest broader implications for policymaking that encourage postretirement employment as a means to enhance well‐being in countries with aging populations. Overall, this paper contributes to the discourse on organizational work, aging, and quality of life by offering evidence‐based policy recommendations for enhancing human self‐actualization and well‐being through sustainable professional engagement.
Spirostanol‐Type Saponins From Allium Macrostemonis Bulbus Alleviate Chronic Unpredictable Mild Stress–Induced Depression‐Like Behavior in Mice
Authors: Ding Weixing , Sun Yu , Wu Jianfa , Li Hongyan , Wang Zengfa , Li Wei , Shi Leiling , Zhang Jing , Wang Lulu
Published: February 2025

Major depressive disorder is a chronic, recurrent, and potentially life‐threatening mental disorder that severely impacts both psychological and physiological health. Allii Macrostemonis Bulbus (AMB), a traditional Chinese medicinal and edible plant, is believed to be beneficial for mood regulation. Recent preclinical studies have demonstrated its total saponins’ antidepressant effects, though the specific active substances and pathways remain unclear.We first established an in vitro model of hippocampal neuronal injury in mice induced by Glu and conducted preliminary screening of different polarity fractions of AMB’s total saponins, identifying spirostanol‐type saponins (AMBN‐90) with antidepressant potential. We then analyzed the components and used network pharmacology to predict the targets and pathways of AMBN‐90’s antidepressant effects. Next, we established an in vivo mouse model of depression induced by chronic unpredictable mild stress and treated it with AMBN‐90 for 6 weeks. Behavioral tests, hippocampal HE staining, and monoamine level measurements in the hippocampus were used to verify AMBN‐90’s antidepressant effects. Subsequently, Western blotting and molecular docking methods were employed to preliminarily reveal AMBN‐90’s potential antidepressant mechanisms. Results showed that AMBN‐90 exhibited significant neuroprotective activity in vitro. In vivo, AMBN‐90 significantly improved weight loss and depression‐like behaviors in mice exposed to chronic unpredictable mild stress, ameliorated hippocampal neuronal damage, and significantly increased levels of 5‐HT, DA, and NE in the hippocampus. It also elevated brain‐derived neurotrophic factor levels and reduced neuronal apoptosis by activating the PKA–CREB–BDNF pathway. Molecular docking showed that components of AMBN‐90 have superior affinity for the upstream proteins of the pathway, C‐type G protein–coupled receptors (GPCRs). Our findings suggest that steroidal saponins in AMB may be developed as functional foods and drugs for alleviating depression.
Exploring the Interplay of Factors in Chronic Kidney Disease: Insights from a The Malaysian Cohort Study
Authors: Abdullah Noraidatulakma , Ahmad Norfazilah , Mohammed Nawi Azmawati , Hassan Mohd Rohaizat , Goh Ying-Xian , Ismail Norliza , Abd Jalal Nazihah , Othman Raihannah , Kamalul Arifin Azwa Shawani , Kamaruddin Mohd Arman , Jamal Rahman
Published: February 2025

Introduction:
There is an increasing prevalence of chronic kidney disease (CKD) in Malaysia, hence identifying factors associated with the early stage of CKD is crucial for preventive measures. This study investigated the association between various factors and their interaction in a multi-ethnic Malaysian cohort.
Methods:
A nested case-control analysis was conducted on 3160 eligible participants with renal profile data from The Malaysian Cohort project. CKD status was determined by estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) using the Chronic Kidney Disease Epidemiology Collaboration (CKD-EPI) equation. Multiple logistic regression analysis using the likelihood ratio method were used to identify the factors and their interaction with CKD.
Results:
This study suggested five factors associated with CKD: gender, ethnicity, physical activity, atherogenic plasma index (AIP), and systolic blood pressure. There was an interaction between AIP and gender, with increased odds of CKD among men with high AIP.
Conclusions:
As CKD is mainly asymptomatic until it is in the later stages, these five factors serve as valuable tools for predicting CKD and enhancing the identification of at-risk individuals, particularly among men with elevated Atherogenic Index of Plasma (AIP). Future studies should focus on using these factors, especially in preventing new CKD cases and their progression.
Fibroblast Growth Factor 23, Endogenous Erythropoietin, Erythropoiesis-Stimulating Agents, and Erythropoietin Resistance in Hemodialysis Patients
Authors: Hamano Naoto , Komaba Hirotaka , Tanaka Hisae , Takahashi Hiroo , Takahashi Yuichiro , Hyodo Toru , Hida Miho , Suga Takao , Wada Takehiko , Kakuta Takatoshi , Fukagawa Masafumi
Published: February 2025

Introduction: Recent experimental studies have reported that fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23) inhibits erythropoiesis by suppressing erythropoietin (EPO) production and downregulating the EPO receptor. Conversely, either endogenous or exogenous EPO has been shown to stimulate FGF23 production. However, little is known about the relationships between FGF23, erythropoiesis-stimulating agent (ESA) treatment, ESA resistance, and endogenous EPO in hemodialysis patients. Methods: We analyzed cross-sectional data from a cohort of 654 maintenance hemodialysis patients. We examined the associations of intact or C-terminal FGF23 with ESA treatment, ESA resistance index (ERI), hemoglobin, C-reactive protein, and endogenous EPO levels using linear regression models. EPO was measured only in patients not receiving ESAs. Results: A total of 458 patients (70%) were treated with ESAs. The median EPO concentration in non-ESA users was 7.8 (interquartile range, 5.3–14.4) mIU/mL. The median levels of intact and C-terminal FGF23 were 1,598 (interquartile range, 548–4,586) pg/mL and 38.7 (interquartile range, 14.0–127.6) pmol/L, respectively, in non-ESA users and 1,955 (interquartile range, 573–5,264) pg/mL and 41.4 (interquartile range, 13.9–116.8) pmol/L, respectively, in ESA users. After adjustment for potential confounders, higher ESA dose was associated with higher FGF23 levels measured by both intact and C-terminal assays. Higher C-terminal FGF23 was also associated with higher ERI, lower hemoglobin, and higher endogenous EPO, but no such associations were observed for intact FGF23 levels. Conclusions: Both intact and C-terminal FGF23 showed similar associations with ESA dose, but they showed different patterns of association with other parameters related to anemia. Further research is needed to elucidate the mechanisms underlying these different associations.
TTFields und CUSP9v3: Potenzial für verbesserte Glioblastomtherapien
Authors: Rogova Elizaveta
Published: February 2025

BACKGROUND: Glioblastoma represents a brain tumor with a notoriously poor prognosis. First-line therapy may include adjunctive Tumor Treating Fields (TTFields) which are electric fields that are continuously delivered to the brain through non-invasive arrays. On a different note, CUSP9v3 represents a drug repurposing strategy that includes 9 repurposed drugs plus metronomic temozolomide. Here, the authors examined whether TTFields enhance the antineoplastic activity of CUSP9v3 against this disease. METHODS: The authors performed preclinical testing of a multimodal approach of TTFields and CUSP9v3 in different glioblastoma models. RESULTS: TTFields had predominantly synergistic inhibitory effects on the cell viability of glioblastoma cells and non-directed movement was significantly impaired when combined with CUSP9v3. TTFields plus CUSP9v3 significantly enhanced apoptosis, which was associated with a decreased mitochondrial outer membrane potential (MOMP), enhanced cleavage of effector caspase 3 and reduced expression of Bcl-2 and Mcl-1. Moreover, oxidative phosphorylation and expression of respiratory chain complexes I, III and IV was markedly reduced. CONCLUSION: TTFields strongly enhance the CUSP9v3-mediated anti-glioblastoma activity. TTFields are currently widely used for the treatment of glioblastoma patients and CUSP9v3 was shown to have a favorable safety profile in a phase Ib/IIa trial (NCT02770378) which facilitates transition of this multimodal approach to the clinical setting.
Plattenepithelkarzinome der Haut: Präventive Wirkung einer Flächentherapie aktinischer Keratosen
Authors: Ulrich Claas
Published: February 2025

Die Behandlung von aktinischer Keratose (AK) zielt darauf ab, Hautkrebs (kutanes Plattenepithelkarzinom, cSCC) zu verhindern. Es ist jedoch umstritten, in welchem Umfang sich AK tatsächlich zu cSCC weiter entwickeln können, und die Wirkung einer zielgerichteten Behandlung in diesem Kontext ist wenig erforscht. In einer sekundären Analyse einer multizentrischen, randomisierten klinischen Studie wurden 624 Patienten aus 4 niederländischen Krankenhäusern untersucht, die mindestens 5 AK auf einer Fläche von 25–100 cm2 am Kopf hatten. Diese Patienten wurden zwischen Juli 2019 und Dezember 2020 langfristig nachbeobachtet. Die Patienten wurden auf eine Behandlung mit 5% Fluorouracil, 5% Imiquimod-Creme, photodynamischer Therapie mit Methylaminolevulinat oder 0,015% Ingenol-Mebutat-Gel randomisiert. Das Hauptziel der Studie war es, den Anteil der Patienten zu ermitteln, die während der Nachbeobachtungszeit ein invasives cSCC entwickelten. Sekundäre Ziele waren die Untersuchung der Zusammenhänge zwischen dem Risiko eines invasiven cSCC und verschiedenen prognostischen Faktoren, wie der Schwere der AK (Olsen-Grad), der Vorgeschichte von Nicht-Melanom-Hautkrebs und zusätzlichen Behandlungen. Ergebnisse zeigten, dass von den 624 Patienten (89,4% männlich, Durchschnittsalter 73 Jahre) 26 während der Nachbeobachtung ein invasives cSCC entwickelten. Das 4-Jahres-Risiko für die Entwicklung eines cSCC in den behandelten AK-Gebieten lag insgesamt bei 3,7% und variierte je nach Behandlungsmethode. Patienten mit schwerer AK (Olsen-Grad III) hatten ein Risiko von 20,9%, das bei zusätzlichen Behandlungen sogar auf 33,5% anstieg. Die Schlussfolgerung der Studie ist, dass Patienten mit schwerer AK und diejenigen, die zusätzliche Behandlungen benötigen, ein deutlich erhöhtes Risiko für die Entwicklung eines invasiven cSCC haben und daher engmaschig überwacht werden sollten.
Supplement-induced acute kidney injury reproduced in kidney organoids
Authors: Nakanoh Hiroyuki , Tsuji Kenji , Fukushima Kazuhiko , Haraguchi Soichiro , Kitamura Shinji , Wada Jun
Published: February 2025

Introduction: Acute kidney injury (AKI) associated with the consumption of Beni-koji CholesteHelp supplements, which contain red yeast rice (Beni-Koji), has become a significant public health concern in Japan. While renal biopsy findings from several case reports have suggested tubular damage, no definitive causal relationship has been established, and the underlying mechanisms of kidney injury remain poorly understood. The complexity of identifying toxic substances in supplements containing various bioactive compounds makes conventional investigative approaches both time-consuming and challenging. This highlights an urgent need to establish a reliable platform for assessing organ-specific toxicity in such supplements. In this study, we utilized a kidney organoid model derived from adult rat kidney stem cells (KS cells) to assess the potential tubular toxicity of these supplements. Methods: KS cell clusters were cultured in three-dimensional system supplemented with growth factors to promote kidney organoids. The organoids were subsequently exposed to Beni-koji CholesteHelp supplements or cisplatin, followed by histological and molecular analyses to evaluate structural and molecular impacts. Results: Established organoids had the kidney-like structures including tubular-like structures and glomerulus-like structures at the tips of multiple tubules. Treatment with Beni-koji CholesteHelp supplements induced significant tubular damage in the organoids, characterized by epithelial cell thinning, structural disruption, and increase in cleaved caspase-3-positive apoptotic tubular cells, similar to the organoids treated with cisplatin. Conclusions: These findings provide the first evidence suggesting that certain toxicants in specific batches of Beni-koji CholesteHelp supplements cause direct renal tubular injury. This KS cell-based organoid system represents a cost-effective, reproducible, and technically simple platform for nephrotoxicity screening.
Surveillance of QTc-Interval Prolonging Medications Upon Admission Throughout Hospitalization in a Tertiary Care Geriatric Ward
Authors: Baralić Knežević Ivana , Kovačević Milena , Stefanović Katarina , Erceg Predrag , Mihajlović Gordana , Aćimović Jovana , Vučićević Katarina M.
Published: February 2025

Objective: Long QT syndrome (LQTS) poses a significant risk of torsade de pointes, particularly in older patients due to age-related changes in cardiac repolarization and increased susceptibility to medication-induced QTc interval prolongation. Despite the increased risk, data on medication-related LQTS remain limited, leading to this study on its prevalence, characteristics, and risk factors, along with QT-prolonging drug use in older patients. The study aims to identify clinical and medication-related predictors of LQTS and evaluate the burden of co-prescribed QT-prolonging medications in this population. Subject and Methods: This prospective study at a tertiary care hospital included initial and follow-up ECGs, with medication details were collected. Statistical analyses compared variables, including QTc intervals and medication use, between patients with and without LQTS. Results: The study included 128 adults aged 65 or older, with 27.3% presenting LQTS on admission, increasing to 42.2% after 7 days of hospitalization. Patients with LQTS had a higher prevalence of QTc-interval prolonging medications, List 1 medications, and atrial fibrillation. Laboratory changes and medication use were observed, with significant increases in QTc interval and List 1 medication administration. Male sex and amiodarone use were identified as predictors of LQTS during hospitalization. Conclusion: The study report a high prevalence of prolonged QTc interval and LQTS in older inpatients. Proton pump inhibitors were frequently prescribed despite their QTc-prolonging potential. This underscores the need of close monitoring and awareness of QTc prolongation risks in older patients, advocating for routine ECG assessments and vigilant management of modifiable risk factors, especially the electrolytes.
Fast Degradation of MecciRNAs by SUPV3L1/ELAC2 Provides a Novel Opportunity to Tackle Heart Failure With Exogenous MecciRNA
Authors: Liu Xu , Wang Qinwei , Li Xinya , Yang Yan , Deng Yuqi , Wang Xiaolin , Wang Peipei , Chen Liang , Ma Likun , Shan Ge
Published: February 2025

BACKGROUND:

Circular RNAs derived from both nuclear and mitochondrial genomes are identified in animal cells. Mitochondria-encoded circular RNAs (mecciRNAs) are attracting more attention, and several members of mecciRNAs have already been recognized in regulating mitochondrial functions. Mitochondria dysfunctions are well-known to participate in heart failure (HF). This study was designed to investigate the RNA metabolism of mecciRNAs and the relevant roles and potential application of mecciRNAs in HF.

METHODS:

Compared with highly stable nuclear genome-encoded circular RNAs, the fast degradation feature of mecciRNAs is identified by RNA sequencing and a series of molecular, biochemical, and cellular experiments. The substantial protective effects of in vitro synthesized mecciRNAs were tested in both doxorubicin- and pressure overload–induced mouse models of HF.

RESULTS:

We discover that mecciRNAs are promptly degraded by an animal-conserved complex of helicase SUPV3L1 (suppressor of var1, 3-like protein 1) and endoribonuclease ELAC2 (elaC ribonuclease Z 2). MecciRNA degradation complex and mecciRNAs interact with mitochondrial permeability transition pore and its regulators including TRAP1 (TNF receptor–associated protein 1) and CypD (cyclophilin D). MecciRNAs regulate mitochondrial levels of TRAP1 and CypD to modulate the opening of mitochondrial permeability transition pore and the release of mitochondrial reactive oxygen species. Exogenously applied mecciRNAs interact with cytosolic TRAP1 and increase mitochondrial levels of TRAP1, and lead to a more closed state of mitochondrial permeability transition pore to constrain deleterious reactive oxygen species release. HF conditions lead to stimulated mecciRNA degradation, and administration of in vitro synthesized mecciRNAs exhibits substantial protective effects in both doxorubicin- and pressure overload–induced mouse models of HF.

CONCLUSIONS:

This study demonstrates the fast degradation of mecciRNAs and the associated regulations of mitochondrial reactive oxygen species release of mitochondrial permeability transition pore by mecciRNAs. HF conditions lead to dysregulated mecciRNA degradation, and exogenous mecciRNAs demonstrate treatment potential in mouse models of HF.
Can Mosquitoes be Kin? Conservation, Conviviality, and Enmity Among “Pests” From Myanmar to Singapore
Authors: Cole Tomas
Published: February 2025

In this article, I take the theme of this special issue on “The Enemy of Kinship and Kinship with the Enemies” as a provocation to challenge previous work, including my own, on convivial conservation and interspecies kin-making across Southeast Asia. How do species spoken of as “pests” and “enemies” fit into models of interspecies relatedness? What happens when we focus on our particularly vexed interspecies relationship to disease-bearing bugs? Drawing on the figure of the mosquito, I proceed to probe the limits both of Indigenous practices of making good relations and kinship with other species, and of modes of interspecies kin-making that underpin them. I end by speculatively forwarding the notions of “making peace” as an alternative way of coexisting with species whom people regularly refuse to make kin, or even friends.
The Neurology of Culture
Authors: Lobo Gregory J.
Published: February 2025

The lack of anatomical evolution contrasted with an evident behavioral change in humans during their natural history, from about 200,000 to 700,000 years ago, constitutes something of a puzzle. What explains the behavioral change, a change which is commonly understood as cultural? Against the surprisingly widespread but tautological response that the change was driven by culture – which amounts to the unsatisfying argument that culture drives culture, all the way down, or back – this paper presents a theory developed by Andrey Vyshedskiy, whose work on autism and language therapies has led him to an account of the neurobiological basis of voluntary imagination, which here I redescribe as an account of the evolution of the neurology of culture.
Did Teddy Bears Culturally Evolve to Be Cuter? A Preregistered Replication
Authors: Borredon Quentin , Bulamac Zeynep , Crozat Camélia , Dayre Emmanuel , Fuchs Estelle , Hallo Marie , Kerzreho Lou , Lavagne d’Ortigue Pauline , Lellouche Theodore , Samani Hossein , Penel Sammy , Ryszefld Nina , Sandhu Tavleen , Timsit Aure , Yrjö-Koskinen Janne , Morin Olivier , Dubourg Edgar
Published: February 2025

This pre-registered replication study explores the impact of perceived cuteness on the evolution of cultural artifacts, testing whether neotenic traits – eye size, forehead height, and head roundness – have increased in teddy bears over time. In previous research, Hinde & Barden (1980) found an increase in teddy bear neoteny while Gould (1985) found that Mickey Mouse’s features became more neotenic with time. However, both studies lacked statistical power (15 teddy bears and 3 Mickey Mouse drawings). We collected data from eight major teddy bear manufacturers over nine decades (N = 250; 1900–1980). We found that the forehead height of teddy bears significantly increased over time. Conversely, our prediction that heads became rounder and eyes became bigger were not supported. We outline four key methodological limitations that future research should address to deepen our understanding of the cultural evolution of cuteness and of cultural artifacts more broadly – i.e., sampling bias, metadata inaccuracy, categorization ambiguity, and function ambiguity.
American-English Ethnoanatomy: Novices and Experts
Authors: Robbins Michael C. , Robbins Robert M.
Published: February 2025

This interdisciplinary study of novice, American–English speakers found two major discrepancies between their conceptualizations of external human anatomy, and the expert opinion of the scientific and medical community. In contrast to the experts, (1) more than 90% of the novices exhibit polysemy when identifying human limbs and (2) about 50% exhibit partonomic disagreement, about whether ‘thumbs’ are ‘fingers’, and ears are ‘parts of’ the face. Both verbal and visual test modalities were adopted in (2). No significant differences were found by modality in either case. Overall, the results about this cognitive domain support the frequent finding that, when compared to experts, novices tend to under-differentiate, making fewer specific distinctions, and use different taxonomic structures. A novel linguistic paradigm for explaining the specific findings is presented, as is their practical significance for health communications in general.
Resolution of Marital Disputes and Domestic Violence in Nigeria: The Role of Alternative and Traditional Dispute Resolution Mechanisms
Authors: Daibu Abdulrazaq Adelodun , Akanbi Khairat Oluwakemi , Jamiu Toheeb Aremu
Published: February 2025

Marital unions that are normally expected to be blissful and ever-lasting are sometimes riddled with all manner of disputes often resulting in domestic violence. This is because of the inevitability of disputes in human interactions including marital unions. Sometimes, for cultural and religious reasons, victims of domestic violence in marital disputes are warned against reporting the violence to ensure marriage sustainability, marital privacy as well as to protect the welfare of the children of the marriage among other reasons. This approach seems to be ineffective as endurance of domestic violence over time often results in physical injuries, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder and even death in some extreme cases. On the other hand, couples drag one another to different courts to seek legal redress and resolve marital disputes. Again, this approach does not seem to solve the problem. The court-based justice system has not proven to be a better forum of resolving connubial disputes that require confidential, swift, non-combative and effective dispute resolution mechanism. Hence, this article explores the possibility of using alternative dispute resolution mechanisms to solve marital disputes in Nigeria. It adopts the doctrinal research methodology to examine the role that alternative and traditional dispute resolution mechanisms could play in the amicable resolution of marital disputes and domestic violence cases. The article argues that alternative and traditional dispute resolution mechanisms could be more veritable and effective means of resolving matrimonial discords and domestic violence in Nigeria.
Optics, Heart Metaphors, and Print in the Age of Jesuit Science
Authors: Chen Andrew
Published: February 2025

This article examines some of the tensions and contradictions inherent in Athanasius Kircher’s (1602–1680) treatise Ars magna lucis et umbrae. In the concluding section of the work, Kircher likens the heart to the camera obscura and the mirror, using the vocabulary of optics to describe the purifying effect of divine light. The heightened evocativeness of this imagery came with theoretical difficulties, however, in part because of the negative spiritual connotations of reversal and inversion, operations performed by optical devices upon their objects. Kircher grappled with these challenges in other portions of his treatise. The fact that printmaking involves image reversal, and related errors in the illustrations of Ars magna lucis, complicated the situation further. It is argued here that the infelicities found in these illustrations offer a parallel, on the material level, for the conceptual difficulties negotiated by Kircher.
Causal relationship between Faecalibacterium abundance and risk of Faecalibacterium-related diseases: a two-sample bi-directional Mendelian randomisation study
Authors: Zhao S. , Qu Y. , Huang H. , Xie P. , Cai X. , Peng Q. , Peng J. , Zhang W. , Zhou H. , Yan H. , Li X.
Published: February 2025

Faecalibacterium is an essential probiotic in the human gut; changes in its abundance are associated with various disease states in many studies. However, the causal nature of such associations remains obscure. Therefore, we aimed to thoroughly investigate the causal relationships between Faecalibacterium and its related diseases. A two-sample bi-directional Mendelian randomisation analysis was conducted using publicly available genome-wide association studies summary statistics for Faecalibacterium and its related diseases. We found that Faecalibacterium was negatively correlated with the risk of ankylosing spondylitis (odds ratio [OR] = 0.526, 95% confidence interval [CI]:0.304-0.908, ), atopic dermatitis (OR = 0.484, 95%CI: 0.261-0.898, ) and heart failure (OR = 0.657, 95%CI: 0.467-0.924, ), while Faecalibacterium was positively associated with autism spectrum disorder risk (OR = 2.529, 95%CI: 1.012-6.319, ). The results of reverse Mendelian randomisation analysis showed that acute sinusitis (OR = 0.902, 95%CI: 0.839-0.970, ) and Alzheimer’s disease (OR = 0.976, 95%CI: 0.958-0.993, ) was causally associated with lower Faecalibacterium abundance, respectively, while cirrhosis (OR = 1.154, 95%CI: 1.028-1.295, ) and multiple myeloma (OR = 2.619 × 1012, 95%CI: 2.492-2.754 × 1024, ) was causally associated with higher Faecalibacterium abundance. Our findings firstly showed that changes in Faecalibacterium abundance may contribute to the risk of ankylosing spondylitis, atopic dermatitis, heart failure and autism spectrum disorders, and potentially as a result of acute sinusitis, Alzheimer’s disease, cirrhosis and multiple myeloma.
Introduction: Towards a History of Humanitarian Experiences
Authors: Martín-Moruno Dolores , Gorin Valerie
Published: February 2025

This special issue explores the evolving history of humanitarian experiences by bridging emotions, senses, and lived realities with broader social and political contexts. It challenges conventional definitions of humanitarianism by reframing it as a ‘cultivated feeling’ and examining its diverse embodiments across history. Contributions analyse how artists, children, volunteers, and professionals have shaped humanitarian actions, from anti-slavery movements to modern refugee aid, addressing ethical dilemmas, emotional dynamics, and systemic inequalities. By intertwining memory, imagination, and bodily practices, this collection reexamines humanitarianism’s roots and its transformation into a global movement. It critically interrogates the roles of emotions, offering a nuanced perspective on their historical intersections with senses and experiences. Ultimately, the issue advocates for an experiential turn, enriching the historical understanding of humanitarianism and its implications for contemporary and future practices.
Contribution of the Jesuits to the Development of Numismatics before the Suppression of the Society in 1773
Authors: Awianowicz Bartosz B.
Published: February 2025

The introductory essay explores the main aspects of the Jesuits’ contribution to the development of numismatics—the study and collection of coins, medals, and related objects—from using coins as inspiration for emblems and historical sources in the seventeenth century to the autonomous study of (mostly ancient) coins in the eighteenth century. In the seventeenth century, a philological approach prevailed among the Jesuits: Athanasius Kircher (1602–80) and Jean Hadrouin (1646–1729) were primarily interested in inscriptions on coins that could be used to help establish ancient biblical chronology. However, Louis Jobert (1637–1719) saw coins and later medals not only as historical sources but also as strictly collector’s objects. By the eighteenth century, the Jesuits were already present in every strand of numismatics at the time: they assembled their collections, cataloged the collections of rulers and institutions, wrote cross-sectional monographs, and took part in subtle academic polemics like the “Bellum Pollarum” (War over Polla) in Vienna in the 1760s.
Maine de Biran
Authors: Canullo Carla , Emma-Adamah Victor
Published: February 2025

Although phenomenology’s interest in the work of Maine de Biran is well known, the French philosopher’s work also marks an important path in hermeneutics, namely in what we can call “medical hermeneutics.” To paraphrase the famous phrase of Ricoeur’s hermeneutics, “to explain more in order to understand better,” medical hermeneutics would consist in explaining an illness in order to understand the body better. However, since there is an ambivalence of illness and health in a single body, it is precisely this duality or coexistence of principles that the treatment of illness in the body reveals to us. Thus, by developing Hermann Boerhaave’s phrase “homo simplex in vitalitate, duplex in humanitate,” Maine de Biran makes it possible to discover a radical duality in the unique human being, i.e. a radical and unconscious passivity and a conscious psychological state characterised by effort. This duality constitutes the complexity of the human being, which our philosopher also discovers thanks to his dialogue with the physicians of his time. Finally, thanks to this dialogue, Biran’s work can be inscribed in the history of the relationship between philosophy and medicine.
Traces of Gramscian Theory and Practice in South Africa
Authors: Ortu Claudia , Pontarelli Francesco
Published: February 2025

This study explores the reception and development of Antonio Gramsci’s political thought in South Africa, from the apartheid era to the late 2010s. By tracing Gramsci’s influence across academia and working-class organisations, the article argues that his categories emerged in response to intellectuals’ and movements’ needs for transformative praxis in specific historical periods. The paper employs a chronological and thematic framework, tracing how Gramsci’s thought was translated and developed by activist-intellectuals and trade unions during apartheid. It further explores the post-apartheid transition, investigating Gramsci-inspired analysis of neoliberal policies and the use of concepts like hegemony, civil society and, later on, passive revolution to address emerging crises and unmet expectations by the majority of the population. The study underscores Gramsci’s influence and enduring relevance in public debates and in analysing subaltern struggles and transformative potential within South African society.
Falsely elevated type IV collagen caused in part by heterophilic antibodies: A case report
Authors: Lv Xian-Min , Xiao Long , Yu Hong-Lei , Yan Lu-Wei
Published: February 2025

Immunoassays, which are used ubiquitously in clinical practice, are inherently vulnerable to distortions arising from endogenous immunoglobulins, particularly heterophilic antibodies. While many studies have explored interference in substances measured using chemiluminescence or electrochemiluminescence methods based on the double-antibody sandwich principle, there are limited data on interference in immunoturbidimetric assays, particularly for type IV collagen. This article presents the first report of a noteworthy increase in serum type IV collagen levels stemming from heterophilic antibody interference detected through an immunoturbidimetric assay. The present study investigated the mechanisms of this interference and the differences introduced by heterophilic antibodies between the two methodologies. Additionally, it outlines strategies for identifying and mitigating such interference, and discusses the principles, limitations, and considerations of each corrective approach. The objective is to raise awareness among clinical laboratory professionals concerning the potential interference of heterophilic antibodies in immunoturbidimetric assays. Increased awareness will aid in the prompt detection and correction of this issue, ensuring the provision of accurate and reliable laboratory data for informed clinical decision-making and the prevention of adverse medical outcomes.
Importance of Motor Control in “Static Situations” Where the Situation Does not Seem to Change
Authors: Nakajima Kento , Yamada Norimasa
Published: February 2025

This study focuses on the human decision-making process under temporal and physical constraints. While previous studies have explored how humans respond rapidly to changing situations, this study examined situations that appear static but involve potential dynamic changes. Specifically, we used soccer as a context to analyze mistakes made in sports situations that seem static but assume potential movements and changes. The number of successful kicks and passes in static and quasi-static situations were compared, and the concept of information entropy was used for motion analysis to provide new insights. The results revealed that the number of successful passes in quasi-static situations significantly decreased (count: 320/400 times), indicating that even in quasi-static states, humans make decisions while anticipating dynamic situations, even in quasi-static states (Movement time: 853 ± 121 ms). During this time, there was a large variation (Entropy: 1.64, 1.86 bits) in the direction of the waist and the kicking motion at the moment of the kick. These findings indicate that motion is controlled in anticipation of dynamic situations, even under seemingly static conditions, and emphasize the importance of stability and accuracy in motor control across all situations. This study offers new insights into the psychological understanding of decision-making and behavioral control under complex and dynamic conditions with time constraints, contributing valuable knowledge to the field of psychology.
Fatigue analysis of railway catenary dropper based on its stress incorporating displacement loading and fluctuating wind load
Authors: Pan Like , Yang Caizhi , Shen Xinxin , He Fan , Zhu Xiaohan , Zhao Yingxin , Yuan Yuan , Zhao Qingyuan , Meng Qingzhou , Dong Bo , Guo Xiaoli
Published: February 2025

In this paper, a simple chain suspension catenary model is constructed. The acting force of pantograph is reduced to a displacement loading. The stress and fatigue life of railway catenary dropper incorporating displacement loading and fluctuating wind load are studied. Through writing a MATLAB code, the vibration equation of the dropper is used to calculate its stress under different conditions using a finite difference method, combining with the initial boundary value conditions obtained by the response equations of the contact wire. Based on the dropper stress, its fatigue life can be obtained. The results show that under the 250 km/h train speed, the stress change process of the dropper experiences three stages: immediate rebound, attenuation vibration, and bending compression. Dropper Ⅳ is most likely to break in a span. Compared with dropper Ⅳ, the fatigue life of dropper Ⅰ is 11 times, and those of droppers Ⅱ, Ⅲ, and Ⅴ are about 2.5 times. Compared with no wind, the fatigue lives of droppers Ⅰ–Ⅳ are reduced by approximately three times at a wind speed of 25 m/s. This work provides a powerful means for the study of dropper stress under actual working condition.
“Revive, Sisters!”: Chinese women in ministry through the lens of the Canaan Hymns
Authors: Yang Xiaoli
Published: February 2025

“Half of the Sky”, a phrase used to describe the rise of women in the New China of the 1960s, can equally apply to the tremendous legacy of Chinese women in Christian ministry in the contemporary indigenous movement. This paper amplifies the voices of Chinese women in ministry and studies the feminine motif in the song collection known as Canaan Hymns. Drawing from the methodologies of lived theology through textual analysis, interviews, and literature reviews, firstly it examines some biblical portraits of women resonating with the experiences of female Chinese itinerants; secondly the embodied spirit-filled experiences coupled with feminine tenderness and flaming passion; lastly the organic ecclesiology that empowers female leadership. It is argued that the hymns offer a unique poetic window into the lived experiences of Christian women, providing nuances and complexity of gender, identity, body, spirituality and relationality in the recent history of Chinese Christianity.
Property evaluation of mechanically modified thermoset rigid polyurethane foam waste/NBR blends: Effect of blend ratios
Authors: Perera KIDP , Edirisinghe DG , Karunanayake Laleen , Nishantha WM Namal
Published: February 2025

Burning of rigid polyurethane (PU) foam waste unlike that of natural rubber based product waste as an energy source is generally not performed as it may release toxic gases to the environment, which may lead to the human health issues. Therefore, these wastes are being accumulated in the environment without a proper disposal method. The main aim of this study was to develop a low-cost modification process for rigid thermoset PU foam waste to produce blends with nitrile rubber (NBR) for special applications. In addition to potentially enhancing the qualities and lifespan of the final goods, combining modified PU waste with NBR can help promote environmental sustainability through waste reduction, resource conservation, and energy efficiency. Thermoset rigid PU foam waste was mechanically modified using two roll mill by varying the number of mill passes from 6 to 18 at an interval of 3 mill passes. After evaluation of the properties of the modified PU waste, optimum mill pass was determined. A series of virgin NBR/mechanically modified rigid PU foam waste composites were prepared by varying the percentage of PU foam waste modified using two roll mill from 0 to 30% at 7.5% intervals according to an oil seal formulation. Cure characteristics, physico-mechanical properties such as tensile properties, tear strength, hardness, resilience, abrasion resistance, ageing performance as well as swelling behaviour, crosslink density and oil absorbance of NBR/mechanically modified PU foam waste vulcanizates in toluene and industrial oils were evaluated and compared with those of control vulcanizate. Results indicated that replacement of 30% virgin NBR with mechanically modified rigid thermoset PU foam waste retained 54%, 70% and 83% of tensile strength, elongation at break and tear strength, respectively. Hardness and resilience increased by less than 3%, whereas abrasion volume loss and compression set increased by 44% and 62%, respectively. Modulus at 100% elongation was dropped by 35%. Replacement of virgin NBR with mechanically modified PU up to 15% does not have any marked influence on physico-mechanical properties. Hence, the 85:15 virgin NBR/Modified PU blend compound could be suitable for oil resistant applications.
Retrospective Perceptions of Life Satisfaction Change: Evaluation Strategies and Correspondence With Measured Change
Authors: Wei Annika Z. , Ford Brett Q. , Willroth Emily C.
Published: February 2025

Life satisfaction has been shown to change over time, but we know little about how people perceive those changes. In preregistered analyses, the current research investigated the degree of correspondence between people’s retrospective perceptions of life satisfaction change and their measured life satisfaction change (Sample A analytic N = 359; Sample B analytic N = 336). On average, retrospective perceptions of change were moderately correlated with measured change ( r = .20–.25). When evaluating their life satisfaction change, participants reported that they focused more on the present compared to the past, considered their life circumstances more than their feelings, and engaged in careful consideration more than relying on gut instinct. Findings suggest people have some insight into changes in their life satisfaction. Consistent with the individual differences in evaluating life satisfaction (IDELS) model, people engaged in a variety of evaluation strategies and differed from one another in the degree to which they used each strategy.