bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Machine Learning‐Driven Passenger Demand Forecasting for Autonomous Taxi Transportation Systems in Smart Cities
Authors: Munawar Adeel , Piantanakulchai Mongkut
Published: February 2025

Autonomous Taxis (ATs) have seen remarkable global proliferation in recent years owing to the widespread adoption and advancements in Artificial Intelligence (AI) across various domains. ATs play a crucial role in Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) in smart cities. However, the effectiveness of ITS relies heavily on accurately forecasting the passenger demand for ATs, which poses a significant challenge. Precise prediction of passenger demand is essential for minimising waiting times and unnecessary cruising of ATs in metropolitan areas, which helps conserve energy. To address this issue, this study proposed an adaptive Bayesian Regularisation Backpropagation Neural Network (BRBNN) augmented with a Machine Learning (ML) model to predict passenger demand in different regions of metropolitan cities specifically for ATs. The study conducted extensive simulations using a real‐world dataset collected from 4781 taxis in Bangkok, Thailand. Using MATLAB2022b, the proposed model compared various state of art methods and existing research. The results indicate that proposed model outperforms existing methods in terms of performance metrics such as Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) and R‐squared () for passenger demand forecasting. These findings validated the effectiveness of the prediction model and its ability to accurately forecast passenger demand for ATs, thereby contributing to the advancement of efficient transportation systems in smart cities.
Loss and Gain: Temporal Succession in Different Facets of Fish Diversity Over a Half Century Under Cascade Dam Construction
Authors: Jia Yintao , Zhuo Yu , Cardoso Pedro , Li Junle , Wang Jun , Sui Xiaoyun , Feng Xiu , Zhu Ren , Li Kemao , Chen Yifeng
Published: February 2025

Freshwater biodiversity is increasingly imperilled by human activities, with dam construction posing significant threats to fish communities. Species composition changes through introductions and extinctions have been widely reported, yet the long‐term consequences of cascade dam construction on multiple facets of biodiversity remain poorly understood. Moreover, the compensatory effects of species introductions on extinction have received limited attention. This study presents a comprehensive evaluation of the impact of extinction‐introduction successions, triggered by cascade dam construction, on the taxonomic, phylogenetic, and functional diversity of fish assemblages in the upper Yellow River over five decades. Our results reveal that shifts in species composition significantly increased phylogenetic and functional diversity but not taxonomic diversity, suggesting a greater sensitivity of the former to cascade dam construction. However, introduced species only partially compensate for approximately 50% of phylogenetic and functional diversity losses caused by extinctions. Furthermore, the timing of significant increases in phylogenetic and functional diversity is not synchronised, with all measures gradually stabilising post‐dam construction. Cumulative reservoir capacity, reservoir age, and individual reservoir capacity were identified as key determinants of multifaceted diversity change after dam construction, with cumulative reservoir capacity and reservoir age generally having positive effects, while individual reservoir capacity tended to have a negative impact. These findings stress the urgent need to reassess the compensatory effects of introductions on extinctions under global change, emphasise caution in interpreting short‐term data due to non‐linear diversity patterns, and highlight the importance of using long‐term monitoring and multifaceted diversity metrics in biodiversity conservation actions.
Effect of MWCNTs on the Tension–Tension Fatigue Behavior of Woven Angle Ply GFRP Laminates
Authors: Radhakrishnan P. M. , Ramajeyathilagam K.
Published: February 2025

Fatigue characteristics of multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) toughened glass fiber reinforced plastic (GFRP) composites made of woven angle ply (45°/−45°) fabric is presented. Fatigue experiments were conducted under tension–tension fatigue loading for stress ratios 0.1 and 0.3, and at three different stress intensities. The dispersion of 0.5 wt.% of MWCNTs in the modified GFRP resulted in better fatigue lifecycle compared with the GFRP modified with 1.0 wt.% of MWCNTs. In addition, MWCNTs dispersion also affected other fatigue properties, such as fatigue stiffness, cyclic creep, and dissipated energy. Analytical models were employed to demonstrate a substantial amount of reliability in accurately predicting the fatigue lifecycle of MWCNTs modified GFRP. Furthermore, a statistical methodology has been utilized to ascertain the design fatigue lifecycle at different levels of reliability.
A Hybrid Approach for Heat Source Identification and Heat Diffusion–Related Issues in the Fatigue Loading
Authors: Zaeimi Mohammad , De Finis Rosa , Palumbo Davide , Galietti Umberto
Published: February 2025

Over the past decades, thermographic methods have become a viable substitute for conventional approaches in the analysis of material fatigue behavior, due to their efficiency, cost‐effectiveness, and nondestructive nature. By examining the temperature signature generated by intrinsic heat dissipations during the fatigue loading, valuable insights into the behavior of the materials can be investigated. Substantial intrinsic dissipation—a marker of material damage—is linked to a transition from anelastic to inelastic strains. The main aim of this work is to explore heat dissipations during fatigue of materials by combining experimental techniques and numerical simulations, focusing on the fundamental temperature component in fully reversed loading, known as the second amplitude harmonic (SAH) of temperature. The hybrid method combines experimental data with numerical modeling to identify the specific volume generating heat during fatigue testing. Additionally, the effect of the mechanical loading frequency on SAH of temperature was also examined.
Allopatric Divergence and Secondary Contact Within a Single River System in a Freshwater Fish Group
Authors: Utama Ilham V. , Mandagi Ixchel F. , Lawelle Sjamsu A. , Masengi Kawilarang W. A. , Nagano Atsushi J. , Kusumi Junko , Yamahira Kazunori
Published: February 2025

Because riverine fishes can disperse along linear river corridors and even between tributaries, allopatric divergence within river systems is limited to large rivers. Within small rivers, such as island rivers, allopatric divergence rarely occurs, and no cases of secondary contact have been reported to date.

Two congeneric riverine ricefishes, Oryzias dopingdopingensis and O. landangiensis, are found in the Doping‐doping and Cerekang Rivers, respectively, on Sulawesi Island, which are connected via estuarine waters. These two species are suggested to have diverged in allopatry within this single river system.

Phylogenetic and population genetic structure analyses using genome‐wide single nucleotide polymorphisms revealed that Oryzias individuals recently discovered from the downstream Cerekang River are phylogenetically distinct not only from O. dopingdopingensis in the Doping‐doping River but also from O. landangiensis in the upstream Cerekang River. Species tree analysis and demographic model inference revealed that the downstream Cerekang Oryzias diverged from upstream Cerekang Oryzias in allopatry approximately 57,000 generations ago, and they came into secondary contact with each other approximately 22,000 generations ago. Thereafter, the upstream Cerekang population split into two populations, O. landangiensis and O. dopingdopingensis, approximately 14,000 generations ago.

We are not aware of any freshwater fish groups that may have experienced both allopatric divergence and secondary contact within such a small single river system. The allopatric divergence and secondary contact within the Cerekang–Doping‐doping River system can be explained by assuming that a lake once existed in this region, where many tectonic lakes have formed and disappeared because of the collision and/or juxtaposition of tectonic subdivisions since the Pliocene/Pleistocene.

Gene flow from O. landangiensis to the downstream Cerekang Oryzias is also evident. Although the secondary contact between the upstream and downstream Cerekang populations was estimated to have occurred more than 40,000 years ago, they are still not completely homogenised within the linear corridor of the Cerekang River. This stagnation of homogenisation can be explained by their weak dispersal ability, which may reflect past adaptation to lacustrine environments.
Navigating Climate Change: Exploring the Dynamics Between Plant–Soil Microbiomes and Their Impact on Plant Growth and Productivity
Authors: Muhammad Murad , Wahab Abdul , Waheed Abdul , Hakeem Khalid Rehman , Mohamed Heba Ibrahim , Basit Abdul , Toor Muhammad Danish , Liu Yong‐Hong , Li Li , Li Wen‐Jun
Published: February 2025

Understanding the intricate interplay between plant and soil microbiomes and their effects on plant growth and productivity is vital in a rapidly changing climate. This review explores the interconnected impacts of climate change on plant–soil microbiomes and their profound effects on agricultural productivity. The ongoing rise in global temperatures, shifting precipitation patterns and extreme weather events significantly affect the composition and function of microbial communities in the rhizosphere. Changes in microbial diversity and activity due to rising temperatures impact nutrient cycling, microbial enzyme synthesis, soil health and pest and disease management. These changes also influence the dynamics of soil microbe communities and their capability to promote plant health. As the climate changes, plants' adaptive capacity and microbial partners become increasingly crucial for sustaining agriculture. Mitigating the adverse effects of climate change on plant growth and agricultural productivity requires a comprehensive understanding of the interconnected mechanisms driving these processes. It highlights various strategies for mitigating and adapting to environmental challenges, including soil management, stress‐tolerant crops, cover cropping, sustainable land and water management, crop rotation, organic amendments and the development of climate‐resilient crop varieties. It emphasises the need for further exploration of plant–soil microbiomes within the broader context of climate change. Promising mitigation strategies, including precision agriculture and targeted microbiome modifications, offer valuable pathways for future research and practical implementation of global food security and climate change.
Understanding Micro‐Level Budgeting Behavior: How Cognitive Biases Shape Politicians' Budget Preferences
Authors: Overmans Tom , Grimmelikhuijsen Stephan
Published: February 2025

Decades of research emphasized collective behaviors in public budgeting, yet individual budget preferences remain underexplored. This paper argues that both well‐known and lesser‐known cognitive biases distort politicians' budget judgment, resulting in biased preferences. To test this, we conducted five preregistered experiments examining the impact of five biases—anchoring, herding, mental accounting, availability bias, and loss aversion—on budget preferences. Using data from 1825 municipal budgeters in The Netherlands, we reveal significant effects of anchoring, adherence to irrelevant budget labels (mental accounting), and overspending on items that attract media attention (availability bias) or emphasize gains (loss aversion). We also find that presenting decision information through infographics holds potential for improving judgment and mitigating biases in preferences. These findings challenge the view that budgeting is purely political, highlighting the role of cognitive factors in suboptimal budget decisions. We emphasize the need for further research into biases and debiasing mechanisms to advance budget decision‐making.
Exploring the impact of acute SARS‐CoV‐2 infection on headache pattern in patients with migraine: A novel Bayesian analysis
Authors: Yeh Jiunn‐Tyng , Wang Yen‐Feng , Tzeng Yi‐Shiang , Chen Shih‐Pin , Pan Li‐Ling Hope , Wang Shuu‐Jiun
Published: February 2025

Objectives

To analyze headache and migraine dynamics around severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) infection.

Background

Headache is a common symptom of SARS‐CoV‐2 infection, which caused the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic. However, the daily changes in headache patterns in patients with migraine during the infection are unclear.

Methods

This study is a post hoc and retrospective study of patients with migraine and documented COVID‐19 diagnoses and headache diaries from a large prospective migraine cohort that consecutively enrolls eligible patients. Patients’ characteristics, headache and migraine patterns, and vaccination data were retrieved. Change points in daily headache or migraine rates of this cohort were identified from 28 days before (day −28) to 28 days after (day 28) the infection. We calculated and compared the weekly headache and migraine days of individual patients during pre‐infection, infection, and post‐infection periods based on the change points. We further categorized patients into those with increased headache days and those without to investigate if vaccinations affected the headache patterns by comparing the pre‐ and post‐infection headache days.

Results

A total of 463 patients, 370 (79.9%) females, with an age (mean ± standard deviation) of 41.5 ± 11.9 years, were enrolled. A total of 26,391 diary days were analyzed. The change‐point algorithm identified changes in headache rates on day −4 (95% credible interval: −5.0, −1.2) and day 12 (95% credible interval: 7.6, 17.0). For migraine attacks, the change points were day −2 (95% credible interval: −4.9, −0.8) and day 11 (95% credible interval: 7.6, 17.2). After the grouping based on these change points, we found that the weekly headache days (mean ± standard error of the mean) increased from 1.5 ± 0.1 days during pre‐infection to 1.8 ± 0.1 days during acute infection and recovered to 1.6 ± 0.1 days after infection. The weekly migraine days increased from 1.0 ± 0.1 day to 1.3 ± 0.1 days during acute infection and recovered to 1.1 ± 0.1 days. Female patients and those older than 40 had more abrupt changes in headache and migraine patterns. There was no impact of vaccinations on the headache pattern regardless of the type or dose of the vaccinations or the intervals between the last vaccination and the COVID‐19 diagnosis.

Conclusion

We demonstrated that the headache and migraine rates among individuals with migraine escalated during the early stage of SARS‐CoV‐2 infection and returned to baseline along with systemic viral clearance.
Impact of time‐of‐day atezolizumab plus bevacizumab combination therapy infusion for unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma: A retrospective multicenter study
Authors: Naganuma Atsushi , Kakizaki Satoru , Hatanaka Takeshi , Hiraoka Atsushi , Tada Toshifumi , Hirooka Masashi , Kariyama Kazuya , Tani Joji , Atsukawa Masanori , Takaguchi Koichi , Itobayashi Ei , Fukunishi Shinya , Tsuji Kunihiko , Ishikawa Toru , Tajiri Kazuto , Toyoda Hidenori , Koshiyama Yuichi , Ogawa Chikara , Nishikawa Hiroki , Nishimura Takashi , Kawata Kazuhito , Kosaka Hisashi , Matsui Kosuke , Yata Yutaka , Tanaka Hironori , Ohama Hideko , Kuroda Hidekatsu , Matono Tomomitsu , Aoki Tomoko , Ochi Hironori , Imai Michitaka , Nakamura Shinichiro , Kanayama Yuki , Tanaka Kazunari , Tada Fujimasa , Yoshida Osamu , Nouso Kazuhiro , Morishita Asahiro , Tsutsui Akemi , Nagano Takuya , Itokawa Norio , Okubo Tomomi , Arai Taeang , Enomoto Hirayuki , Kaibori Masaki , Hiasa Yoichi , Kudo Masatoshi , Kumada Takashi ,   the Real‐life Practice Experts for HCC (RELPEC) Study Group, and HCC 48 Group (hepatocellular carcinoma experts from 48 clinics in Japan)
Published: February 2025

Aim

This study aimed to evaluate the impact of infusion timing of time‐of‐day on clinical outcomes in patients with unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) treated with atezolizumab plus bevacizumab combination therapy.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was conducted using data from 751 unresectable HCC patients treated with atezolizumab plus bevacizumab between September 2020 and April 2024. Patients were categorized into morning (AM; n = 351) and afternoon (PM; n = 400) groups based on infusion timing of time‐of‐day. Outcomes, including progression‐free survival (PFS), overall survival, objective response rate, and disease control rate, were assessed using Kaplan–Meier survival analysis and Cox regression analysis.

Results

The PFS was significantly longer in the AM group (8.6 months, 95% CI 7.6–10.5) compared with the PM group (6.0 months, 95% CI 5.4–7.0; p = 0.006). In contrast, overall survival was similar between the groups (AM: 24.7 months vs. PM: 21.4 months; p = 0.99). Cox regression analysis revealed that morning infusion was an independent favorable predictor of PFS (HR 1.23, 95% CI 1.04–1.45). Additionally, the AM group demonstrated superior objective response rate and disease control rate compared with the PM group, suggesting better tumor control.

Conclusion

Morning infusion of atezolizumab plus bevacizumab is associated with improved PFS and response rates in unresectable HCC patients, highlighting the potential for optimizing treatment outcomes through circadian timing.
Exploring Strategies to Connect Foreign Language Education With People Skills: Nurturing Intercultural Understanding Through the Rich Cultural Tapestry of Japanese Anime
Authors: Fukuda Makiko
Published: February 2025

In today's globalized world, the importance of intercultural understanding and interpersonal skills is increasingly emphasized. This study focuses on linking foreign language education with intercultural effectiveness and investigates the impact of using anime as a tool for cultural understanding and the development of intercultural competence. The course is an introductory Japanese culture course for non‐Japanese learners, designed to introduce Japanese culture and values while encouraging students to deepen their understanding of their own thoughts, values, and culture. The intercultural effectiveness scale conducted before and after the 16‐week anime course indicates significant changes in students' self‐awareness, world orientation, relationship development, and emotional resilience—four of the six dimensions of the intercultural effectiveness scale. The results suggest that anime is not just a form of entertainment but also a valuable educational resource that enhances students' intercultural competence.
Overconsumption: A Systematic Literature Review and Future Research Agenda
Authors: Kumar Satinder , Kathuria Garima , Malhotra Dipti
Published: February 2025

Overconsumption is becoming a critical problem worldwide and adversely affects individual consumers, environment and society at large; due to which researchers' interest in this concern has grown. However, despite this increased attention, there is still a lack of a thorough evaluation, which has led to the fragmentation of the body of knowledge regarding overconsumption. As a result, it is acknowledged that a comprehensive overview of research that presents the literature on overconsumption is desirable. The study aims to fulfill such needs by conducting a detailed review of the literature by analyzing 62 related articles published in 37 peer‐reviewed scientific publications. The study follows the guidelines outlined in the SPAR‐4‐SLR protocol and aims to identify the most cited and co‐cited articles, keywords and researchers in overconsumption study. Leveraging the frameworks of Theory, Context, Characteristics, and Methods alongside Antecedents‐Decisions‐Outcomes, this study delves into a detailed examination of overconsumption outcomes and their interconnectedness. Through this comprehensive review, study aims to provide an insightful understanding on the multifaceted impacts of overconsumption. The review also encompasses overconsumption antecedents to the extent that they are linked to the resulting outcomes. Additionally, we determined that the current literature lacks comprehensive theories and primarily focuses on food overconsumption, neglecting various other industries. Therefore, this review provides an outline of the current scientific knowledge of overconsumption and makes substantial contributions to the literature and its implications. Ultimately, this study identifies gaps in existing body of knowledge and offers a well‐organized roadmap for future research.
An Educational Intervention to Reduce Regulated Medical Waste: The Inpatient Medicine and Outpatient Dermatology Settings
Authors: Silva Genevieve S. , Gotschall Jeromy W. , Hu Fengling , Whidden Elizabeth , Cunningham Phoebe , Niculcea Jacob , Chapman Cody , Sharma Prateek V. , Evans Greg , Hussain Farah , Chiesa Fuxench Zelma C. , Knox Kirstin , Rosenbach Misha
Published: February 2025

Background

Improving regulated medical waste (RMW) management is crucial for enhancing planetary health and cost savings. We sought to assess an educational intervention on clinical staff understanding and behavior regarding RMW management.

Methods

This two‐month (2023–2024) controlled, prospective educational intervention at the University of Pennsylvania Health System surveyed healthcare workers, including physicians, nurses, and medical assistants, from four inpatient medicine floors and two dermatology clinics. Half of the medicine and dermatology settings were controls. The intervention included in‐person staff training sessions and printed materials (posters, bin stickers) describing waste segregation and RMW's environmental, health, and cost impacts. A deidentified online survey pre‐ and post‐intervention measured RMW knowledge and behaviors. The primary outcome was a change in performance on survey questions on proper RMW disposal and RMW's negative externalities. Secondary outcomes were self‐reported changes in environmental beliefs and waste stewardship motivators and behaviors, qualitative responses around stewardship barriers, and the impact of clinical role on intervention efficacy.

Results

Average baseline inpatient knowledge scores were 6.17 of 9 versus 7.51 for outpatient. The inpatient intervention increased the odds of answering each question correctly by 3‐fold (odds ratio: 3.71, 95% CI: 2.218–6.401, p < 0.001). The outpatient clinical role was associated with receptivity to the intervention: the intervention effect was 12.7 times stronger for nursing staff than for physicians (95% CI: 1.86, 263.29, p = 0.024). The intervention improved the overall understanding of RMW's negative environmental impact.

Conclusions

An educational intervention can improve understanding of RMW's proper disposal and environmental impact, particularly among nursing staff, and inform future interventions.
Extended Typing of Common Erythrocyte Antigens in Tunisian Blood Donors and Its Usefulness in Transfusion Immunology
Authors: Sellami Mohamed Hichem , Ferchichi Hamida , Ghazouani Eya , Dellai Noura , Boughzala Yesmine , Aissa Wafa , Chaabane Manel , Kâabi Houda , Hmida Slama
Published: February 2025

Extended RBC antigens typing is very valuable in transfusion immunology since it is highly recommended to ensure better transfusion practices and avoid transfusion‐related complications and to establish registries for rare blood donors as recommended by the International Society of Blood Transfusion and World Health Organization.

A group of 236 Tunisian blood donors were genotyped for 19 common blood loci using the Sequence‐specific primers polymerase chain reaction (SSP‐PCR) method. The statistical analysis was done using the HaploView Software.

The study showed the dominance of the loci: RHCE*e, KEL*02, FY*02 and CO*01; and the absence of the homozygous state of the CO*02 allele. Furthermore, two complete linkage disequilibrium leading to the absence of the two alleles RHCE*C‐RHCE*E (C‐E) and FY*01N.01 (FY*Anull) were detected. Additionally, it appeared that approximately 91% of these blood donors are positive for the RHD gene; and all subjects who lacked the RHD exon 10 are homozygous for the RHCE*c and RHCE*e variants. The study also revealed that the RH1 negative blood cannot be universal to the Rh system because almost all RH1 negative donated blood is RH:‐2,4,‐3,5 (ccee), which may constitute a risk in some recipients carrying the anti‐RH4 and/or anti‐RH5 antibodies.

Considering that some donated RBC units may contain blood with very immunogenic phenotypes, great caution is required when transfusing some subjects, especially in emergency situations because it can be a step towards subsequent complex or multiple alloimmunization.
Young People as Actors in Their Occupational Careers: Effective Strategies to Increase the Chances of Entering an Attractive VET Programme After Leaving a General Education School in Germany
Authors: Schuchart Claudia , Schimke Benjamin
Published: February 2025

This article focuses on the question of what strategies general education graduates can use to improve their chances of entering an attractive vocational education and training (VET) programme in Germany. We look, in particular, at grades in the school‐leaving certificate and the additional acquisition of a higher qualification at a vocational school. By using a vignette study, we focus on the selection by companies that offer training. Our results show that excellent grades in the school‐leaving certificate of graduates with only an intermediate school‐leaving qualification or an entrance qualification for a university of applied sciences improve their chances of entering a VET programme in comparison to more highly qualified competitors with very poor grades. One far more effective way is to upgrade their qualification at a vocational school in combination with professional knowledge relevant to the field of the desired VET programme. In particular, this protects graduates with an intermediate school‐leaving qualification from a devaluation of their qualification when applying for a VET programme with a high proportion of applicants who have a university entrance qualification. However, there is a negative effect on their chances if they upgrade their qualification in a vocational field that is not relevant to the desired VET programme. This indicates the importance of career counselling at schools.
Influence of best objective response to first‐line treatment on survival outcomes in advanced urothelial carcinoma in the era of sequential therapy with enfortumab vedotin
Authors: Kobatake Kohei , Goto Keisuke , Sakamoto Yuki , Iwane Kyohsuke , Nishida Kensuke , Hashimoto Kunihiro , Asami Akihiro , Iwamoto Hideo , Hayashi Tetsutaro , Takemoto Kenshiro , Naito Miki , Miyamoto Shunsuke , Sekino Yohei , Kitano Hiroyuki , Goriki Akihiro , Hieda Keisuke , Hinata Nobuyuki
Published: February 2025

Objective

This study evaluated whether first‐line treatment affects survival outcomes in patients with advanced urothelial carcinoma undergoing sequential therapy with chemotherapy, immune checkpoint inhibitors, and enfortumab vedotin.

Methods

This multicenter retrospective study included 57 patients treated at Hiroshima University Hospital and its affiliated institutions between 2009 and 2024. Patients received chemotherapy as a first‐line treatment (gemcitabine plus cisplatin or carboplatin), followed by second‐line immune checkpoint inhibitors (pembrolizumab or avelumab) and third‐line enfortumab vedotin. Assessed outcomes included overall survival and time to treatment failure. Cox regression analysis identified prognostic factors for overall survival.

Results

Over a median follow‐up of 20.5 months, median overall survival was not reached after first‐line treatment. Gemcitabine with cisplatin was selected in 31.6% of cases, while gemcitabine and carboplatin was chosen in 68.4% of cases as the first‐line treatment; subsequently, 66.7% received pembrolizumab, and 33.3% received avelumab in the second‐line treatment. Patients who achieved a complete or partial response with the first‐line treatment had significantly longer overall survivals from both first‐line and enfortumab vedotin initiation than those with stable or progressive disease. In cases that achieved complete or partial responses, avelumab was more frequently selected as a second‐line therapy. However, in the first‐line treatment, multivariate analysis identified only stable or progressive disease as a significant predictor of worse overall survival.

Conclusion

The best response to first‐line treatment predicted both overall survival from first‐line initiation and outcomes following enfortumab vedotin treatment, underscoring its prognostic value in sequential therapy for patients with advanced urothelial carcinoma.
The molecular mechanisms of defensive‐grade organic acid biosynthesis in ground beetles
Authors: Rork Adam M. , Xu Sihang , Attygalle Athula , Renner Tanya
Published: February 2025

Insects are known to synthesise and secrete hundreds of unique defensive chemicals, including caustic acids, pungent phenolics and citrusy terpenes. Despite efforts to characterise the defensive chemistry of ground beetles (Coleoptera: Carabidae), our knowledge of semiochemical evolution within the family and how these compounds are biosynthesised remains limited. Few studies have demonstrated the likely biosynthetic precursors of select compounds in certain taxa and only one has demonstrated which genes may be involved in the biosynthesis of formic acid. Here, we characterise the defensive chemistry and generate defensive gland transcriptomes for ground beetle species representing two defensive chemical classes: the formic acid producer Platynus angustatus and the methacrylic acid producer Pterostichus moestus. Through comparative transcriptome analyses, we demonstrate that co‐option of distinct primary metabolic pathways may be involved in formic acid and methacrylic acid biosynthesis in the defensive glands of these taxa. These results expand our knowledge of ground beetle defensive chemistry and provide additional evidence that co‐option of existing primary metabolic pathways plays a major role in the evolution of ground beetle chemical defence.
A potential route for ZnSiN2 formation from zinc cyanamide and SiO2‐based precursor via the facile, low‐temperature process
Authors: Zushi Ren , Hayashi Yamato , Takizawa Hirotsugu
Published: February 2025

II–IV‐N2‐type compounds (II = Mg, Mn, Zn, etc., IV = Si, Ge, Sn, etc.) are promising semiconductor materials which are composed of earth‐abundant elements. However, given their low thermal decomposition temperatures, the synthesis of II–IV‐N2‐type nitrides necessitates high temperature and pressure or vacuum, requiring high energy consumption and complicated processes. In this study, focusing on ZnSiN2, a simple and energy‐efficient synthesis using zinc cyanamide and oxide precursor powders was developed. SiO2‐based precursors with a Zn constituent were synthesized by a liquid‐phase method using ultrasound, and wurtzite‐type ZnSiN2 and SiO2 composite was successfully synthesized by heating the precursor at 1000°C with urea under nitrogen atmosphere. Mechanistically, zinc cyanamide, a reaction intermediate, contributed to the formation of ZnSiN2 phase. Thus, a mixed powder of separately synthesized zinc cyanamide and precursors powder was heated at 900°C under nitrogen atmosphere, affording the homogeneous wurtzite‐type ZnSiN2 phase. This new process enables the facile synthesis of ZnSiN2 at low temperatures and ambient pressures from stable precursor system.
Strength enhancement strategies in brazing Ti alloys to non‐oxide ceramics: An overview of Ti–6Al–4V/Si3N4 joints
Authors: Ong Fei Shen , Tobe Hirobumi , Sato Eiichi
Published: February 2025

The growing demand for lightweight, heat‐resistant aerospace structures with intricate geometries has driven the integration of non‐oxide ceramics and Ti alloys, addressing the inherent workability and scalability challenges associated with ceramics when used independently. Brazing with eutectic Ag–Cu‐based fillers has emerged as a pivotal technique for fabricating reliable joints between these dissimilar materials. This paper provides a focused overview of strategies to enhance the mechanical reliability of brazed joints between Ti alloys and non‐oxide ceramics, focusing on Ti–6Al–4V (mass%) and Si3N4. Key challenges influencing joint strength are discussed, including tensile residual stresses from mismatched coefficients of thermal expansion, the limited plastic deformability of Ti‐alloy substrates, and the formation of hard Ti‐based intermetallic compounds. Recent advancements to overcome these challenges are highlighted, such as the use of ductile, non‐reactive interlayers, transient liquid phase bonding, high‐plastic‐deformability braze fillers, and the optimization of both the intrinsic properties of ceramics and joint geometries. This overview provides valuable insights that extend beyond Ti‐alloy/non‐oxide‐ceramic joints, offering strategies applicable to the broader field of dissimilar material bonding.
Excellent performance of AgNbO3 in adaptive photothermal management via ferroelectric‐to‐paraelectric phase transition
Authors: Tong Liping , Zhao Zhiyuan , Wang Zhongyang , Lan Xianhao , Chen Simeng , Xu Yang , Yang Miaosen , Han Zhiya , Liu Yixin , Kang Yue , Liu Xiyang , Zhao Su , Zhou Tao , Fan Tongxiang
Published: February 2025

Adaptive photothermal management (APM) materials with large emissivity variation and low solar absorptivity are vital in the field of smart thermal control. However, the related variable emission mechanism in phase‐changing progress for adaptively photothermal modulating material suffers from drawbacks of diversity, complexity and uncertainty. Herein, AgNbO3 (ANO) is discovered as a new promising APM material with low solar absorptivity and large emissivity variation after density functional theory (DFT) calculation and experimental demonstration on five types of phases for ANO. The ANO ceramic is prepared by solid‐state reaction method with high temperature, appearing ferrielectric orthorhombic (M1, Pmc21), antiferroelectric orthorhombic (M2, Pbcm), antiferroelectric orthorhombic (M3, Pbcm), paraelectric orthorhombic (O, Cmcm), and paraelectric tetragonal (T, P4/mbm) phases. Meanwhile, the obtained ANO ceramic has both a low solar absorptivity of 0.1886 in 250–2500 nm, and exhibits a large emissivity variation of 0.4242 in 300–860 K. The comprehensive performance of both low solar absorptivity and large emissivity variation for ANO ceramic is superior to the best available intelligent thermal control materials (low solar absorptivity and large emissivity variation are difficult to coexist in one component). The low solar absorptivity, dielectric permittivity, and phase transition temperature could be attributed to the big crystallite size, while the influence of surface crystallite size on average emissivity could be ignored. Additionally, mechanisms of Nb─O and Ag─O bonds for the emissivity in phase‐changing progress are proposed by establishing the relationship between the orbital character of the density of states and the infrared emissivity. Furthermore, the effect of polarization on emissivity is revealed. This work will guide APM materials selection and preparation toward desired emissivity and solar absorptivity to satisfy numerous applications.
Empowerment and Optimum Use of Strengths Reduce Nurses' Time Pressure
Authors: Chang Hao‐Yuan , Lee I‐Chen , Tai Shih‐I , Wong Alice May‐Kuen , Yu Wen‐Pin , Cheng T. C. E. , Teng Ching‐I
Published: February 2025

Aims

To examine how empowerment, strength use, and their interactions with nursing skill level are related to nurse‐perceived time pressure.

Background

Nurse‐perceived time pressure increases the chance of missed patient care and turnover intention. Time pressure may be reduced by nurses' placement in jobs that make use of their particular strengths (professional abilities, skills and expertise), rather than in jobs that fail to take advantage of these strengths. Empowerment (access to resources, information, support, and opportunities) may also contribute to a reduction time pressure. However, it is not known how strength use and empowerment impact time pressure and how such an impact differs among nurses, indicating a research gap.

Design

This was a cross‐sectional study.

Methods

The 501 nurse participants were approached at a medical center located in northern Taiwan. Complete survey responses were collected in November and December 2023. The sampling method was proportionate random sampling, which can help ensure sample representativeness. This study used scales of empowerment, strength use and time pressure.

Results

Strength use is negatively related to time pressure. Nursing skill level strengthens the negative relationship between strength use and time pressure, while reducing the negative relationship between empowerment and time pressure.

Conclusion

This study uniquely highlights the pivotal role of nursing skill level in moderating the effects of empowerment and strength use.

Impact

This study impacts nurse managers by informing them how to devise policies regarding empowerment and task allocation to best utilise nurses' strengths.

Implications for the Profession

It is suggested that nurse managers offer flexibility in their application of nurses' empowerment and strength use, as they may exert varied effects on different nurses.

Reporting Method

STROBE statement was chosen as the EQUATOR checklist.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.
Machine Learning Accurately Predicts Muscle Invasion of Bladder Cancer Based on Three miRNAs
Authors: Eckhart Lea , Rau Sabrina , Eckstein Markus , Stahl Phillip R. , Ayoubian Hiresh , Heinzelbecker Julia , Zohari Farzaneh , Hartmann Arndt , Stöckle Michael , Lenhof Hans‐Peter , Junker Kerstin
Published: February 2025

The aim of this study was to validate the diagnostic potential of four previously identified miRNAs in two independent cohorts and to develop accurate classification models to predict invasiveness of bladder cancer. Furthermore, molecular subtypes were investigated. The miRNAs were isolated from pTa low‐grade (lg) (n = 113), pT1 high‐grade (hg) (n = 133) and muscle‐invasive bladder cancer (MIBC) (n = 136) tumour tissue samples (FFPE) after either transurethral resection of a bladder tumour (TURB) or cystectomy (CYS). In both cohorts, the expression of miR‐138‐5p and miR‐200a‐3p was significantly lower, and the expression of miR‐146b‐5p and miR‐155‐5p was significantly higher in MIBC compared to pTa lg. A k‐nearest neighbours (KNN) classifier trained to distinguish pTa lg from MIBC based on three miRNAs achieved an accuracy of 0.94. The accuracy remained at 0.91 when the classifier was applied exclusively to the TURB samples. To guarantee reliable predictions, a conformal prediction approach was applied to the KNN model, which eliminated all misclassifications on the test cohort. pT1 hg samples were classified as MIBC in 32% of cases using the KNN model. miR‐146b‐5p, miR‐155‐5p and miR‐200a‐3p expressions are significantly associated with particular molecular subtypes. In conclusion, we confirmed that the four miRNAs significantly distinguish MIBC from NMIBC. A classification model based on three miRNAs was able to accurately classify the phenotype of invasive tumors. This could potentially support the histopathological diagnosis in bladder cancer and therefore, the clinical decision between performing a radical cystectomy and pursuing bladder‐conserving strategies, especially in pT1 hg tumors.
Evaluation of a Trial of Computerised Cognitive Behavioural Therapy Programme Within Local Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services
Authors: Bell Deborah
Published: February 2025

Rationale

NICE guidelines recommend offering computerised Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (cCBT) to young people with mild mental health issues to ensure early treatment access and reduce service demand. Emerging evidence suggests cCBT reduces symptoms, but further evaluation is needed. SilverCloud is a recommended digital CBT programme.

Aims

Evaluate a pilot trial of SilverCloud in CAMHS at a local NHS Foundation Trust.

Objectives

(1) Symptomology: Is there a change in depression or anxiety symptoms after using the intervention? (measured by outcome scores); (2) Adoption: What was young people's engagement with SilverCloud? (measured by time spent on the platform and uptake); (3) Satisfaction: How satisfied were young people with SilverCloud? (measured by module feedback ratings and a questionnaire).

Methods

The SilverCloud intervention for young people was evaluated over 9 months. Reductions in symptoms of generalised anxiety disorder (GAD) and low mood were measured using the Revised Children's Anxiety and Depression Scale (RCADS), GAD, and Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) subscales. Adoption was measured by time spent on SilverCloud and intervention uptake. Satisfaction was measured by module feedback ratings and a questionnaire.

Results

Ninety‐one people were offered SilverCloud, 77% started, 46% completed it and 27% disengaged. Thirty‐two participants completed SilverCloud during the evaluation (12 CYP and 20 parents). No statistically significant reduction was found in any subscale. Satisfaction was varied; 94% rated the intervention favourably, but no participants reported behaviour changes due to the intervention.

Conclusion

This evaluation suggests tentative pessimism regarding SilverCloud's benefits. However, due to significant challenges and limitations, further analysis is recommended. Recommendations were given for local services.
Development of a Tetrahymena thermophila‐Based Vaccine Expressing Miamiensis avidus Ciliary Proteins to Combat Scuticociliatosis
Authors: Watanabe Yuho , Kotake Maho , Matsuoka Hiromi , Yoshinaga Tomoyoshi , Kitamura Shin‐Ichi
Published: February 2025

Miamiensis avidus is a parasitic pathogen responsible for scuticociliatosis, a lethal infection affecting marine fish worldwide, including Japanese flounder. Immunisation with formalin‐killed M. avidus has shown promise in inducing protective immunity, positioning it as a potential vaccine candidate against scuticociliatosis. However, challenges such as the high cost of producing sufficient cells and inconsistent quality due to the lack of cryopreservation methods hinder its development. In this study, we expressed M. avidus ciliary proteins in Tetrahymena, a culturable ciliate, and used these cells to immunise Japanese flounder. The immunised fish produced antibodies against M. avidus. Additionally, immunisation with two transgenic Tetrahymena strains, each expressing different ciliary proteins, induced the production of antibodies against two serotypes of the parasite. In challenge experiments, fish immunised with the transgenic Tetrahymena showed prolonged survival compared to the control group, highlighting the potential of this approach as a vaccine candidate. These findings suggest that transgenic Tetrahymena cells could be a viable platform for developing vaccines against multiple serotypes of M. avidus.
Diverticulitis in Older Adults: A Review of Etiology, Diagnosis, and Management
Authors: Hall Jessica K. , Supiano Mark A. , Cohan Jessica N.
Published: February 2025

Background

Diverticulitis accounts for over 300,000 hospitalizations annually in the United States and its incidence increases with age. Among older adults, diverticulitis is the fourth leading cause for emergency surgery. Older adults with multimorbidity and geriatric syndromes are often excluded from clinical studies, leaving a gap in the evidence needed to guide management. Here, we provide a clinically oriented review of the diagnosis and management of older adults with diverticulitis through the lens of age‐friendly care.

Methods and Results

We reviewed the literature describing the epidemiology, diagnosis, management, and prevention of diverticulitis in older adults. Due to age‐related physiologic changes, the presence of geriatric syndromes, and multimorbidity, older adults with diverticulitis often present with atypical symptoms, variable laboratory findings, and are at higher risk for complications than younger patients. Guidelines support a more aggressive approach to diagnosis in this population, with lower threshold for obtaining diagnostic imaging. Antibiotics remain a mainstay of treatment for uncomplicated disease, and surgical management should be focused on severity of disease and the balance between the likelihood of improving quality of life and risks and burden of treatment.

Conclusions

Diverticulitis is a common disease that has a unique presentation among older individuals with limited evidence to guide management. Diagnosis and treatment should focus on what matters most to the patient, providing the most meaningful outcome possible within the context of multimorbidity, patient goals, symptom burden, and anticipated treatment outcomes.
Trust in Physicians and End‐of‐Life Discussions and Preferences for Place of Care Among US Chinese Older Adults
Authors: Kim Hyosin , Jiang Yanping , Duberstein Paul R. , Tang Fengyan , Luth Elizabeth A.
Published: February 2025

Background

Patient trust in physicians is essential for effective end‐of‐life discussions. Little is known about how Chinese older adults' trust in physicians relates to their end‐of‐life care discussions and care setting preferences.

Objective

To examine the association between medical trust among Chinese older adults and their views on end‐of‐life discussions and care setting preferences.

Design

Secondary analysis of longitudinal cohort data from the Population Study of Chinese Elderly (PINE) using linear mixed‐effects logistic and multinomial logistic regressions, adjusting for covariates. Predicted probabilities of outcome measures were reported.

Participants

A total of 2192 Chinese older adult immigrants in greater Chicago participated in the PINE study from 2017 to 2020.

Main Measures

Outcome variables encompass four dimensions of end‐of‐life care planning: (1) beliefs about the importance of discussions with family; (2) discussions of end‐of‐life options with family; (3) preference for counseling with a healthcare provider as a resource; and (4) preferred place of care. The main independent variable was trust in physicians. Covariates included age, sex, education, income, years in the United States, living children, self‐rated health, and medical conditions.

Key Results

Respondents with strong trust were less likely to consider end‐of‐life discussions with family important (AOR = 0.70, 95% CI: 0.55–0.88). Those with strong trust were more likely than those with weak trust to value counseling with a healthcare provider for end‐of‐life discussions with family (AOR = 5.86, 95% CI: 4.65–7.38). Moderate trust was associated with a preference for end‐of‐life care in a hospital (AOR = 1.63, 95% CI: 1.30–2.05) over home care, relative to weak trust.

Conclusions

Older Chinese immigrants with strong trust tended to place less emphasis on end‐of‐life discussions with family and favored one‐on‐one counseling with a healthcare provider for end‐of‐life discussion. Patient education and family engagement in end‐of‐life discussions led by trusted healthcare providers may be promising approaches to ensure goal‐concordant care for this population.