bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enhanced flow properties of SiO2 nanoparticles coated low-cost hydrogenation-dehydrogenation Ti-6Al-4V powder for powder bed fusion process
Authors: Gim Ukju , Kim Sehun , Kang Tae hu , Lee Jongik , Jeong Sanghee , Han Jimin , Lee Bin
Published: February 2025

Powder bed fusion (PBF) is a metal additive manufacturing process known for high-dimensional accuracy and design flexibility. Spherical powders, often used in PBF, provide appropriate flowability for uniform layer recoating but are limited by low yields and high costs. In this research, low-cost hydrogenation-dehydrogenation (HDH) Ti-6Al-4V powder was used for the PBF process. To overcome its drawback of low flow properties, a simple dry-coating process of hydrophobic SiO2 nanoparticles on the surface of the HDH Ti-6Al-4V powders was proposed. Surface-modified HDH Ti-6Al-4V powder showed enhanced flow properties, which can be utilised in the PBF process under standard conditions such as recoating speed (30 mm/s). X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy was conducted to examine the bonding between the powders and particles after dry coating. The additive-manufactured sample exhibited a relative density of over 99.8% and a 36.0% increase in Vickers hardness compared to the spherical Ti-6Al-4V powder, due to the grain refinement effect of the SiO2 nanoparticles.
Balancing research excellence and ‘Publish or Perish' in private Indian universities
Authors: A Subaveerapandiyan , Ahmad Naved , Shimray Somipam R. , Annamma Lovely M , George Biji Thomas
Published: February 2025

This study explores the interplay between research excellence, career advancement, and the “publish or perish” culture among faculty in private Indian universities. Using data from 252 respondents, it examines how demographic variables such as age, education, position, experience, and research engagement shape perceptions of research expectations. Factor analysis revealed three key themes: research excellence, academic success and career advancement, and pressure to publish, collectively explaining 71.007% of the total variance in perceptions. The findings indicate that university support and faculty qualifications positively influence research excellence and career growth. However, a persistent “publish or perish” culture exerts significant pressure on faculty, often prioritizing quantity over quality of outputs. This study underscores the importance of institutional strategies in fostering a balanced research environment, providing insights for policy-making in private Indian universities.
Segmenting the Population and Estimating Transition Probabilities Using Data on Health and Health-Related Social Service Needs from the US Health and Retirement Study
Authors: Duminy Lize
Published: February 2025

Background

Simulation modeling is a promising tool to help policy makers and providers make evidence-based decisions when evaluating integrated care programs. The functionality of such models, however, depends on 2 prerequisites: 1) the analytical segmentation of populations to capture both health and health-related social service (HASS) needs and 2) the precise estimation of transition probabilities among the various states of need.

Methods

We took a validated instrument for segmenting the population by HASS needs and adapted it to the Health and Retirement Study, a nationally representative survey dataset from the US population older than 50 y. We then estimated the transition probabilities across all 10 need states and death using multistate modeling. A need state was defined as a combination of any of the 5 ordinal global impression segments and a complicating factor status.

Results

Kaplan-Meier survival curves, log-rank tests, and c-indices were used to assess predictive validity in relation to mortality. The Markov traces, using the estimated transition probability to replicate 2 closed cohorts, resembled the proportion of individuals per health state across subsequent waves well enough to indicate adequate fit of the estimated transition probabilities.

Conclusions

This article provides a population segmentation approach that incorporates HASS needs for the US population and 1-y transition probabilities across HASS need states and death. This is the first application of HASS segmentation that can estimate transitions between all 10 HASS need states, facilitating novel analysis of policy decisions related to integrated care.

Implications

Our results will be used as input for a simulation model that performs scenario analysis on the long-term effects of various integrated care policies on population health.

Highlights

We took a validated tool for segmenting the population according to health and health-related social service (HASS) needs and adapted it to the Health and Retirement Study, a nationally representative survey dataset from the US population over the age of 50 y. We estimated the 1-y transition probabilities across all 10 HASS segments and death. This is the first application of a version of this HASS segmentation tool that includes HASSs in the various need states when estimating transition probabilities. Our results will be used as input for a simulation model that performs scenario analysis on the long-term effects of various integrated care policies on population health.
Comparison of Approaches for Variance Estimation with Application to a Survey on Discrimination
Authors: Guadarrama Sanz María , Bienvenue Jean-Yves , Chauvet Guillaume
Published: February 2025

Usually, Statistical Institutes and Research Centers present the results of surveys in a “standardized” way, that is, the estimator of the parameter of interest and the associated measure of accuracy. This implies the calculation of the variance of the estimator, which is typically done in two possible ways: analytically or with replication methods. The analytic way requires the availability of the information of auxiliary variables used in the methodological plan of the survey, both at the sample level for the design variables, and at the respondent level for the variables involved in the treatment of non-response. Unfortunately, these variables are often not available in the final survey dataset, and the variance might therefore be miscalculated. Replication methods, which fully integrate the methodological plan applied into the survey, may be considered as good alternatives to this approach. This paper uses real data from the survey on “Racism and Ethno-racial Discrimination” carried out in Luxembourg in 2021, to compute and compare analytic variance estimators and bootstrap variance estimators. For this survey, both the linearization and the rescaled bootstrap lead to similar results, but the ultimate cluster variance estimator can be substantially biased. This suggests that the rescaled bootstrap may be a relevant approach.
Carcinoma of the ampulla of Vater with membranous nephropathy: a case report
Authors: Jie Hua , Yongsheng Qian , Wenli Chen
Published: February 2025

Nephrotic syndrome can occur secondary to malignancy, and its resolution is sometimes observed following tumor resection. We herein report the case of a 67-year-old Asian man who presented with membranous nephropathy associated with carcinoma of the ampulla of Vater. The patient initially presented with edema, hypoalbuminemia, and significant proteinuria with positive PLA2R antibody. Following surgical removal of the tumor, his urinary protein levels normalized, his serum albumin returned to normal, and the nephrotic syndrome achieved complete remission. This case underscores the importance of screening for secondary causes, such as malignancies, in patients with nephrotic syndrome. For those with malignancy-associated nephrotic syndrome, prompt and targeted treatment of the underlying tumor is critical to avoid missing the window for surgical intervention. This report aims to provide insights into the diagnosis and management of tumor-associated nephrotic syndrome, contributing to a better understanding of this rare clinical entity.
Initial misdiagnosis to a revised diagnosis of pulmonary paragonimiasis with elevated serum immunoglobulin G4 concentrations: a case report
Authors: Yin Pengyan , Duan Miaohui , Deng Lingyao , Li Tianli , Huang Xuan , Fang Raohong , Li Hailong , Bai Binliang
Published: February 2025

An elevation in serum immunoglobulin (Ig) G4 concentrations at only one time point is not a definitive diagnostic marker for IgG4-related diseases. We report two cases of pulmonary paragonimiasis with elevated serum IgG4 concentrations. Patient 1 was a woman in her late 40s with cough and dyspnea for 1 week. Patient 2 was a woman in her late 60s with a cough, bloody sputum, chest pain, and wheezing for over 1 month. Patient 1 had eosinophilia, high IgE, IgG, and IgG4 concentrations, right pleural effusion, and lung lesions, resembling tuberculosis. Patient 2 had cavitary lung lesions, pleural involvement, and eosinophilia, and high IgE, IgG, and IgG4 concentrations, with a history of eating raw river crabs. Both patients tested positive for Paragonimus antibodies. Patient 1 received 2 months of anti-parasitic treatment, while Patient 2 had 1 week of treatment. Patient 2 showed improvement and was discharged with normalized Ig concentrations. Increased serum IgG4 concentrations, in conjunction with elevated concentrations of IgG, IgE and eosinophil counts, and a history of travel or residence in areas endemic for paragonimiasis, can be used to distinguish pulmonary paragonimiasis from other etiologies of pneumonia.
Complications, Reoperations, and Readmissions After Common Arthroscopic Sports Medicine Procedures of the Knee: An Analysis of the ABOS Part II Oral Examination Case List Database
Authors: Bragg Jack T. , McIntyre J. Alex , Puzzitiello Richard N. , Salzler Matthew J.
Published: February 2025

Background:

Arthroscopic knee surgeries are among the most commonly performed orthopaedic surgeries, yet complications of these procedures are relatively understudied.

Purpose:

To determine the rate of complications, reoperations, and readmissions for arthroscopic knee surgeries by procedure, patient characteristics, and physician fellowship training status using a large national database.

Study Design:

Cross-sectional study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

Data were collected from the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery (ABOS) database for early-career orthopaedic surgeons taking the ABOS Part II Oral Examination between 2003 and 2022. We queried the type and frequency of complications, unexpected 90-day reoperations, and readmissions for patients undergoing sports medicine knee arthroscopy. Chi-square test and analysis of variance were used to determine the effect of fellowship training status, geographic region of practice, patient age, and patient sex on outcomes of interest.

Results:

Of 138,823 knee arthroscopic procedures, 10,450 complications were self-reported, making for an overall complication rate of 7.53%. Unexpected 90-day reoperation and readmission rates were calculated to be 1.16% and 0.91%, respectively. Posterior cruciate ligament reconstruction had the highest complication rate (26.38%). Sports medicine fellowship–trained physicians had a significantly higher rate of complications ( P < .001) compared with their non–sports medicine fellowship–trained peers (8.43% and 7.06%, respectively). Female patients had a higher complication rate (7.72%) than males (7.40%) ( P = .02). Patients aged 20 to 29 had the highest rate of complications and reoperations (10.29% and 1.56%, respectively), whereas patients aged 70 to 79 had the highest rate of readmission (1.47%). Geographic regions of practice had significantly different complication and reoperation rates ( P < .01). The rate of deep venous thrombus was 0.57%, and the rate of pulmonary embolism was 0.12%. Forty-two patients died, for an overall 0.03% mortality rate.

Conclusion:

The overall rate of self-reported complications was 7.53%, and the 90-day rate of unexpected reoperation and unexpected readmission was 1.16% and 0.91%, respectively. Patient sex, patient age, sports medicine fellowship training status, and geographic region of practice all affected rates of complications, reoperations, and readmissions. Knee arthroscopy carries many risks of which patients should be aware before undergoing these procedures.
The Impact of Individual and Context-Related Factors on Students’ Reactions After Sexual Assault: A Vignette Study
Authors: Bošković Irena , de Roos Melissa , Maatz Leonie , Orthey Robin
Published: February 2025

University students are often victims of sexual assault (SA) with a wide range of severity, but they are the least likely to disclose the assault or to take any concrete (legal) steps against the perpetrator. Prior work reported 13 main factors that influence university students’ choice of reaction post-assault: (a) Fear of personal consequences, (b) distrust in authorities, (c) downplay of assault severity, (d) psychological factors, (e) situational factors, (f) lack of evidence, (g) emotional factors, (h) fear of interpersonal consequences, (i) social factors, (j) giving a benefit of doubt, (k) seeking justice, (l) needing support, and (m) presence of witnesses. In this experimental study, we included a student sample pre-screened not to have a history of SA ( N = 419), and we provided them with a vignette. Vignettes were either neutral (control condition, n = 32) or manipulated to present each of listed factors (13 conditions, 26 <  ns > 33). Students were randomly assigned to 1 of 14 conditions in total and were asked to imagine being a protagonist who was assaulted and to rate the likelihood of 8 different post-SA reactions (tell friends, tell family, confront the person, report, police report, do nothing, try to forget, and [falsely] deny). We investigated to see which of the 13 factors had the most impact on each of the reactions. Overall, our results indicate that, when comparing the manipulation groups to the neutral condition, social factors (e.g., religious family, stigma) have the highest impact on students’ decision-making post-assault. Social factors increase the likelihood of all passive reactions (e.g., false denial, contrast = 1.82, p < .001) and decrease the odds of taking pro-active actions (e.g., making the report, contrast = −0.96, p = .002). The implications and the limitations of this study are discussed.
When Employers Speak Out: Examining Effects of Corporate Social Advocacy Through Belief Match, Organizational Identification, and Authenticity
Authors: Troy Cassandra L. C. , Buckley Christen , Al Rawi Ahmed , Kim Nahyun , Vafeiadis Michail , Overton Holly
Published: February 2025

Stakeholders expect companies to speak out on contentious issues, but such advocacy risks backlash. While much prior research on corporate social advocacy (CSA) has focused on external stakeholders, companies must also consider how advocacy affects employees. Drawing on organizational identification theory, this study uses an experiment ( N = 256) to examine effects of an organization’s decision to engage in advocacy on employees’ attitudes and behavior intentions. We found that when employees agree with an employer decision to tackle a controversial social issue in the form of belief match and view it as authentic, this strengthens their relationship, ultimately resulting in positive outcomes for employers (e.g., loyalty) as well as for social movements (e.g., activism intentions).
An improved error estimation method for pseudospectral trajectory optimization
Authors: Li Hesong , Li Zhaoting , Zhang Hongbo , Wang Yi
Published: February 2025

Error estimation is a crucial step for mesh refinement in pseudospectral trajectory optimization. In the classical error estimation method, the estimated results are susceptible to the influence of interpolation methods, and the reference trajectory does not satisfy the requisite dynamic constraints. To address these issues, an improved method for error estimation is proposed. A simplified optimal control problem is constructed near the originally solved trajectory and then transformed into linear equations through pseudospectral discretization. Finally, a modified trajectory with a reduced dynamic constraint violation is generated and regarded as a reference for error estimation. Numerical simulations verify that the improved method can robustly generate a modified trajectory with smaller differential gaps in an acceptable computation time. The modified trajectory serves as a superior reference for error estimation, facilitating accelerated convergence in practical mesh refinement.
Antithrombotic Potential of Cynanchum radians Acetone Extracts: Comparative Study with Heparin and Aspirin in a Murine Model
Authors: Alghamdi Ahmad A.
Published: February 2025

Background

Cynanchum radians ( C. radians) is a small herb from the Asclepiadoid genera, found in both the Old and New Worlds. The plant has potential medicinal properties, but its effects on coagulation have yet to be fully explored.

Purpose

This study aims to evaluate the antithrombotic properties of C. radians acetone extracts by comparing their effects on coagulation markers with those of standard anticoagulants, such as heparin and aspirin.

Methods

Forty mice were divided into four groups: control, acetonic extracts C. radians treatment group, aspirin treatment group, and heparin treatment group. Blood samples were drawn from each mouse in the four groups using ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid, sodium citrate, and heparin tubes. Blood tests, including complete blood count, renal function and liver enzymes tests, activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT), prothrombin time (PT), international normalized ratio (INR), fibrinogen, and D-dimer concentrations were evaluated for each mouse.

Results

There were no significant variations in the levels of chloride, potassium, sodium, blood urea nitrogen, creatinine, aspartate aminotransferase, and alanine aminotransferase across all groups. The C. radians acetone extracts caused a significant prolongation of PT, aPTT, and INR in mice compared to the heparin- and aspirin-treated groups ( p < 0.05). However, no statistically significant differences were observed in D-dimer and fibrinogen levels among the groups.

Conclusion

The present investigation determines that the acetone extracts of C. radians have a more significant effect on prolonging aPTT, PT, and bleeding time in mice compared to heparin and aspirin. These findings suggest that C. radians extracts possess significant antithrombotic properties and may serve as potential precursors for developing thrombosis treatments. However, further research is needed to fully understand the underlying mechanisms, optimize dosing, and assess long-term safety and efficacy before clinical applications can be considered.
Structuration theory investigation of elite Rugby players’ perceptions on how the transition from player to retired player impacted their significant others
Authors: Agnew Deborah , Ellis Yvonne Georgina , Abery Elizabeth , Pill Shane
Published: February 2025

This study investigated how male Australian National Rugby League (NRL) players believed their transition to retirement from professional sport impacted their significant other(s), particularly their partner. We used a constructivist paradigm to frame structuration theory to interpret findings from interpretative analysis of qualitative data obtained from semi-structured interviews with 21 retired players. Themes arrived at interpretatively from the data and identified as perceived impacts were changes in the time spent with family, altered lifestyle status, and the need for family relationship support. In supporting elite players through the preparation and transition to retirement it was found that participants believed that it is not only the players that need support in the transitioning to retirement process but also those who support them, especially their significant others.
Social rights of EU mobile workers: limitations through the concepts of ‘worker’ and ‘insured person’
Authors: Lukács Gellérné Éva , Gyulavári Tamás
Published: February 2025

This article examines limitations on the social rights of mobile EU workers in EU law through the national definitions of ‘worker’ and ‘socially insured’ person. It analyses EU laws and judgments of the CJEU and provides a comparative analysis of the core elements of the concept of ‘worker’ and ‘insured person’ in national laws and potential advantages for mobile EU workers of their broad interpretation. We argue that the present narrowly interpreted terms overwhelmingly put mobile EU workers at a disadvantage, which might lead to indirect discrimination and non-compliance with the principle of proportionality, which are prohibited in EU law with regard to free movement. Mobile EU workers are hindered in becoming ‘workers’ and ‘insured persons’, but targeted collection and processing of statistical data could help them to assert their rights and to enjoy social entitlements, and to avoid being pressurised to accept poor wages and working conditions.
Medications Not Dosed Within Recommended Range for Renal Function in Patients With Chronic Kidney Disease Identified upon Hospice Admission; a Retrospective Chart Review
Authors: Latuga Natalie M. , Levy Kathryn
Published: February 2025

Background

Hospice-eligible patients are vulnerable to adverse medication effects given their advanced illnesses and general older age. It is not known how often medications are not renal dose adjusted in hospice-eligible patients and which are frequently problematic. This study aims to identify commonly prescribed medications with significant renal clearance that are dosed too high and patient characteristics that increase the likelihood of occurrence.

Methods

This is a retrospective chart review of adult patients admitted to hospice care. Data collected included clinical/demographic data, renally cleared medications taken at time of hospice admission, and calculated renal function using several formulas. Descriptive statistics and binomial logistic regression were used to analyze data.

Results

Of 283 included charts, 27% had ≥1 medication dosed too high for renal function. The most common medications prescribed and not renal dose adjusted included tramadol, gabapentin, duloxetine, loratadine, cetirizine, famotidine, apixaban, rivaroxaban, metformin, trospium, and most antimicrobials. Increasing serum creatinine values and increasing number of renally cleared medications were associated with a higher likelihood of a medication dosed too high [OR, 1.702, 95% CI (1.257, 2.305), P < 0.001] and [OR, 1.856, 95% CI (1.517, 2.271), P < 0.001] respectively. Residing at home vs a facility was associated with a reduced likelihood of having a medication dosed too high [OR, 0.30, 95% CI (0.134, 0.673), P = 0.003.].

Conclusions

Hospice-eligible patients frequently have renally cleared medications prescribed and at doses too high for their renal function. Analgesics, over-the-counter antihistamines, anticoagulants, anticholinergics have potential for significant adverse effects and higher vigilance is needed.
The Lived Experience of Divorced Women: The Processes and Outcomes of Transformative Learning
Authors: Rajabpour Azizi Zahra , Moradian Atefeh , Tafti Mahnaz Akhavan , Mohamadzadeh Shirin
Published: February 2025

Divorce is a serious problem that directly and significantly changes the family structure. This qualitative and phenomenological study examined the lived experience of divorced women in Savadkooh (Iran) and the processes and outcomes of transformative learning (TA). A sample of 20 divorced women was purposively selected, and semi-structured interviews were conducted. The data resulting from the phenomenological interviews were analyzed with open, axial, and selective coding. The results demonstrated that a lack of life skills, addiction, people's interference, financial problems, hatred and emotional divorce, irresponsibility, illness, and infidelity were the most important causes of divorce. Critical thinking and problem-solving, personal and social resilience, financial independence, and self-awareness and emotion regulation were identified as the outcomes of divorce based on TA. These findings can motivate researchers to adopt a multidimensional and multimeaning view of divorce and encourage divorced women to face divorce, be transformed, and move on.
A Review of Studies That Measured the Mental Health Outcomes of Spouse Caregivers Caring for a Spouse with Disabling Health Conditions
Authors: Oduche Margaret , Ruppar Todd
Published: February 2025

Background:

Spouse caregivers play a vital role in the long-term care of chronically ill and dependent partners. They frequently experience caregiver burden with negative health outcomes. Caregiver burden is associated with poor mental health outcomes such as depression and anxiety among spouse caregivers. A caregiver’s mental health is essential to the well-being of the caregiver and care recipient; thus, it needs to be accounted for in patient management and in caregiver studies.

Objective:

The purpose of this integrative review was to examine studies that explored relationships between caregiver burden and spouse caregivers’ mental health.

Methods:

Searches in PubMed, Scopus, and CINAHL identified 18 studies that met the inclusion criteria. Twelve of the studies focused on spouse caregivers alone while six included family caregivers with spouse caregivers making up 50% or more of the sample.

Results:

Anxiety and depression were common among spouse caregivers but were often not measured or discussed. Most samples lacked racial and ethnic diversity. Mediating factors such as socioeconomic/income status which can influence mental health outcomes were rarely analyzed or reported. Functional and cognitive decline were the most common mediators of anxiety and depression. The heterogeneity of the methods and measures used in the studies could limit the generalization of findings.

Conclusion:

More studies are needed that include historically underrepresented spouse caregivers. Accounting for confounders such as level of education, income status, and elements of social determinants of health is essential in caregiver studies because of their strong influence on health and mental outcomes.
Doctor when can I drive? A systematic review and meta-analysis of brake reaction time in patients returning to driving after hip arthroscopy for femoroacetabular impingement (FAI)
Authors: Patel Ravi , Sokhal Balamrit Singh , Fenton Carl , Omonbude Daniel , Banerjee Robin , Nandra Rajpal
Published: February 2025

Background:

A common question from patients undergoing hip arthroscopy for femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) is when they may return to driving.

Purpose:

We aimed to perform a formal systematic review and meta-analysis to address this issue.

Methods:

A systematic review and meta-analysis followed PRISMA guidelines. Databases searched included OVID, EMBASE, and COCHRANE through July 2024 for articles with keywords and MeSH terms like “Hip arthroscopy,” “Femoroacetabular Impingement,” “total brake response time,” and “reaction time” related to driving. Titles and full articles were reviewed for quality and relevance. Statistical analysis was done using Review Manager Version 5.4. A total of 39 articles were reviewed, with 5 meeting inclusion criteria. All selected articles used brake reaction time (BRT) as an outcome measure. A meta-analysis compared pre- and postoperative BRT values. Data were analysed for the right and left hips combined, followed by a subgroup analysis by laterality. BRT values were divided into preoperative and 2, 4, 6, and 8 weeks postoperative periods.

Results:

The studies assessed 160 patients, with 142 undergoing hip arthroscopy for FAI. The mean age was 32.75 ± 9.4 years, with a male-to-female ratio of 73:69. The right hip was affected in 68% of patients. Preoperative BRT ranged from 566 to 1960 milliseconds, while postoperative BRT ranged from 567 to 1860 milliseconds between week 2 and week 12.

Conclusions:

BRTs returned to baseline or control values and continued to improve 4 weeks post-surgery for FAI. It is safe to recommend a return to driving at 4 weeks after hip arthroscopy for FAI.
An Immunogenic Cell Death-Related Gene Signature Predicts the Prognosis and Immune Infiltration of Cervical Cancer
Authors: Sun Fangfang , Sun Yuanyuan , Tian Hui
Published: February 2025

Objectives:

Immunogenic cell death (ICD) has been demonstrated to play a critical role in the development and progression of malignant tumors by modulating the anti-tumor immune response. However, its function in cervical cancer (CC) remains largely unexplored. In this study, we aimed to construct an ICD-related gene signature to predict patient prognosis and immune cell infiltration in CC.

Methods:

The gene expression profiles and clinical data of CC were downloaded from The Cancer Genome Alas (TCGA) and Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) datasets, serving as the training and testing groups, respectively. An ICD-related gene signature was developed using the LASSO-Cox model. The expression levels of the associated ICD-related genes were evaluated using single-cell data, CC cell lines, and clinical samples in vitro.

Results:

Two ICD-associated subtypes (cluster 1 and cluster 2) were identified through consensus clustering. Patients classified into cluster 2 demonstrated higher levels of immune cell infiltration and exhibited a more favorable prognosis. Subsequently, an ICD-related gene signature comprising 3 genes (IL1B, IFNG, and FOXP3) was established for CC. Based on the median risk score, patients in both training and testing cohorts were segregated into high-risk and low-risk groups. Further analyses indicated that the estimated risk score functioned as an independent prognostic factor for CC and influenced immune cell abundance within the tumor microenvironment. The up-regulation of the identified ICD-related genes was further validated in CC cell lines and collected clinical samples.

Conclusion:

In summary, the stratification based on ICD-related genes demonstrated strong efficacy in predicting patient prognosis and immune cell infiltration, which also provides valuable new perspectives for the diagnosis and prognosis of CC.
Long Term Outcomes After Flexor Tendon Tenotomy of the Diabetic Foot
Authors: Andersen Jonas Askø , Rasmussen Anne , Frimodt-Møller Marie , Kirketerp-Møller Klaus , Rossing Peter
Published: February 2025

Background:

Hammertoes is one if not the most common deformity that afflicts the diabetic foot and leads to increased risk of diabetic foot ulcers. Flexor tendon tenotomy treatment of the diabetic hammertoe has gained increased interest and is now recommended in international guidelines as a treatment of hammertoes to prevent diabetic foot ulcers. There is however no published data on the long term outcomes following tenotomy treatment.

Introduction:

The objectives of this study was to describe the demographics and long-term outcomes following tenotomy treatment of individuals with diabetes who had flexor tendon tenotomies of hammertoes performed between 2006 and 2009.

Methods:

This was an observational study of a cohort from a prior study. The study was performed at Steno Diabetes Center Copenhagen between 1st of January 2020 and 31st of June 2020. Participants from the prior study were invited to join the study, consisting of one visit where foot examination was performed by orthopedic surgeon. Information on medical history was obtained from medical records.

Results:

Of the original 38 operated participants, 21 (55.3%) had died during the follow-up period, one (2.6%) had moved away, and one (2.6%) had incorrect procedure performed originally. At follow-up (mean 149.7 months (±17)), age of the remaining 15 participants (86.7% male) was 66.6 years (±11.4), diabetes duration was 32.2 years (±13.3), all had neuropathy and 14 (93.3%) had palpable foot pulses. The 15 Included participants had 22 toes tenotomized in the original study, of which five toes (22.7%) in four participants (26.7%) had recurrent hammertoe deformities. Of the 15 participants, 14 (93.3%) had incurred at least one ulcer during the observation period, and eight (53.3%) had incurred an amputation.

Conclusion:

This study reports an undescribed risk of recurrence of deformities after tenotomies and supports that this population is at high risk of new ulcers, amputations, and have a high mortality rate.
Ventilator pressure prediction employing voting regressor with time series data of patient breaths
Authors: Raza Ali , Rustam Furqan , Siddiqui Hafeez Ur Rehman , Flores Emmanuel Soriano , Mazón Juan Luis Vidal , de la Torre Díez Isabel , Ripoll María Asunción Vicente , Ashraf Imran
Published: February 2025

Objectives: Mechanical ventilator plays a vital role in saving millions of lives. Patients with COVID-19 symptoms need a ventilator to survive during the pandemic. Studies have reported that the mortality rates rise from 50% to 97% in those requiring mechanical ventilation during COVID-19. The pumping of air into the patient’s lungs using a ventilator requires a particular air pressure. High or low ventilator pressure can result in a patient’s life loss as high air pressure in the ventilator causes the patient lung damage while lower pressure provides insufficient oxygen. Consequently, precise prediction of ventilator pressure is a task of great significance in this regard. The primary aim of this study is to predict the airway pressure in the ventilator respiratory circuit during the breath. Methods: A novel hybrid ventilator pressure predictor (H-VPP) approach is proposed. The ventilator exploratory data analysis reveals that the high values of lung attributes R and C during initial time step values are the prominent causes of high ventilator pressure. Results: Experiments using the proposed approach indicate H-VPP achieves a 0.78 R2, mean absolute error of 0.028, and mean squared error of 0.003. These results are better than other machine learning and deep learning models employed in this study. Conclusion: Extensive experimentation indicates the superior performance of the proposed approach for ventilator pressure prediction with high accuracy. Furthermore, performance comparison with state-of-the-art studies corroborates the superior performance of the proposed approach.
Widening the gap? How socio-economic status moderates the relationship between political participation and trust
Authors: Albareda Adrià , Müller Moritz
Published: February 2025

This study argues that political participation is a key factor when explaining levels of political trust among citizens. It explores how this relationship is moderated by the socio-economic status (i.e., household income and educational level) of citizens. The article contributes to the field of political trust by employing European Social Survey data from 2016 and 2018. Two findings stand out: firstly, whereas political participation through institutionalized channels is positively related to higher levels of trust among citizens with high socio-economic status, this effect is not present among citizens with lower levels of socio-economic status. Secondly, citizens that highly engage in non-institutionalized modes of political participation and with lower levels of socio-economic status are the ones with lower levels of political trust.
Cross-border trade risk prediction model based on support vector machine
Authors: Wei Qing
Published: February 2025

Exchange rate fluctuations in cross-border trade often increase the difficulty of risk management for enterprises, and traditional forecasting methods are difficult to accurately assess risk levels, thereby affecting the optimization of financial decisions. Therefore, this article designed a cross-border trade risk prediction model based on Support Vector Machines (SVM), mainly to solve the problem of financial uncertainty caused by exchange rate fluctuations. The study used SVM model to extract and analyze features from exchange rate data, economic indicators, and other related data, mapped the data to high-dimensional space using kernel function, and optimized hyperparameters using Bayesian optimization to achieve accurate prediction of cross-border trade risks. The experimental results showed that the accuracy of the designed model in high, medium, and low-risk classification was 92%, 81%, and 89%, respectively, with an average absolute error between 0.09 and 0.13, demonstrating high prediction accuracy and model stability. This model can effectively distinguish different risk categories and performs very well in handling high-risk and low-risk samples. The model also performs well in predicting stability and adaptability to exchange rate fluctuations, providing a reasonable reference range for risk management of cross-border trade enterprises.
A right to bodily integrity – Some complications
Authors: Holm Søren
Published: February 2025

A recent thematic issue of Clinical Ethics contains a number of papers on bodily integrity in paediatric populations. The papers assume that defining ‘bodily integrity’ is a simple matter, and that the main ethical and legal issue is to define when breaches of bodily integrity in pre-autonomous children can be justified. This paper will argue that defining bodily integrity raises specific problems in the paediatric context because the child has a body that is continually developing. The problems will be illustrated by analysing one of the commonly used definitions in the literature, and by considering the developing brain as a body part.
“It's not Just a Wall”: Malangatana's Zimpeto Mural and Peacebuilding in Mozambique
Authors: Matusse Anselmo , Gray Richard
Published: February 2025

This study investigates the late Mozambican artist Malangatana Valente Ngwenya's mural in Zimpeto as an art object that contributed to peacebuilding in Mozambique during the devastating internal conflict known as the Sixteen Years War (1976–1992). The article draws on an interview with Malangatana Valente Ngwenya recorded while shooting the BBC TV film Homeland, the raw footage used as ethnographic material and recent interviews with the artist's sons, Mutxhini and Manguiza Ngwenya. Our sources show that the mural was more than a mere conveyor of meaning but an agent with a social biography. As such, it carried a powerful message of peacebuilding in war-torn Mozambique. We argue that Malangatana's construction of the mural was a tomada de posição (taking of position) about peace further afield than Zimpeto because of its communitarian approach, which challenges top-down, neoliberal framings of cultural activity and peacebuilding both in Mozambique and worldwide. The article opens perspectives on works that might not be art objects according to Western conventions but are embedded in complex peacebuilding activity in conflict-torn locations.
A linear quadratic tracking control strategy based on fuzzy for electric power steering systems
Authors: Nguyen Tuan Anh
Published: February 2025

Stability and steering comfort are improved using an Electric Power Steering (EPS) system instead of a traditional Hydraulic Power Steering (HPS) system. A new control algorithm is proposed in this work to control automotive EPS systems. The proposed algorithm solves two main existing problems: eliminating the influence of systematic errors and ensuring tracking for all state variables instead of just a single object. This algorithm is formed based on a combination of Fuzzy and Linear Quadratic Tracking control techniques, so it is called FLQT. The proposed fuzzy technique has two inputs, angle error, and rate error, which are used to correct the input signal of the LQT technique and reduce systematic error. Simulation results are obtained from specific cases corresponding to two types of driver torques. The article shows that when the FLQT algorithm controls the system, the Root Mean Square (RMS) error does not go over 0.021% (in the first case) or 0.057% (in the second case). However, conventional LQT and Proportional-Integral-Derivative (PID) techniques can increase the RMS error to 18.809% and 42.543%, respectively. System stability and adaptability are guaranteed even when vehicle speed and driver torque change.
Adolescent player development within institutional constraints in academy football
Authors: Hill Megan , Mitchell Siobhan , Brookman Joe , McGee Darragh , Cumming Sean P
Published: February 2025

This study aimed to investigate academy football coaches’ perceptions and experiences of managing adolescent growth and maturation within the constraints of an English Premier League academy. Using a longitudinal mixed method design, 98 under 12–16 players were assessed for maturity status, growth velocities and match performance grade. Interviews were conducted in parallel, with their nine respective coaches. The quantitative and qualitative data were then combined to generate a rich, contextualised understanding. One case study is also presented as an archetypal example. Findings are presented in three themes. Coaches described the conflict between the value of winning and player development, difficulties in judging potential and performance, and the challenges of developing players in an elite competitive environment. Findings emphasise the intricacies of managing and developing adolescent athletes in academy football. Coaches in this study were challenged by the individual differences in growth and maturation and the elite, competitive and selective nature of football academies and the constraints of this environment exacerbate these challenges.
Pronation angle changes with progression of trapeziometacarpal joint osteoarthritis
Authors: Tsukamoto Kazuya , Kuroiwa Tomoyuki , Ibara Takuya , Fujita Koji
Published: February 2025

We evaluated thumb pronation angles in patients with trapeziometacarpal joint osteoarthritis. Patients with a significantly decreased pronation angle showed a moderate correlation with the Eaton–Littler classification. Weakness of opponens pollicis function is associated with the development of trapeziometacarpal joint osteoarthritis.

Level of evidence: III
The Effects of Naturally Occurring Phenols on Amyloid Fibrils from Insulin in the Liquid Phase Using Atomic Force Microscopy
Authors: Dasani Divya B. , Nghiem Tyler P. , Facteau Katherine A. , Pollock Casey A. , Strain Monica L. , Zuchowski Grace E. , Moriarty Daniel F.
Published: February 2025

Objectives

Amyloid fibrils are misfolded proteins that self-assemble to form insoluble, elongated, β-sheet structures. These fibrils are linked with the progression of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's Disease and metabolic disorders such as Type II diabetes. A range of molecules have shown the ability to impede the formation of these fibrils, often by acting on the monomeric and oligomeric forms of the protein. Our work focuses on the inhibitory effect of curcumin, gallic acid and mangiferin on the formation of amyloid fibrils.

Materials and methods

Bovine insulin was used as a model system for amyloid formation by lowering the pH at 60 °C, and several different small molecules were used to test inhibition. Samples were analyzed using Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) in a liquid environment, as well as Congo Red and Thioflavin T assays.

Results

We have been able to observe significant inhibition of amyloid fibril formed from insulin by these compounds as well as observe beginning stages and the morphology of fibrils. Mangiferin, gallic acid, and curcumin were all shown to slow down fibril formation, though by 5 days fibrils have started to form in the gallic acid solution. After 7 days, solutions containing curcumin or mangiferin still show no strong evidence of structured fibrils.

Conclusion

Gallic acid, curcumin and mangiferin are all molecules that have inhibitory effects on amyloid formation using insulin as a model system, with gallic acid being somewhat less effective than the other two. The AFM technique used to image fibrils was performed in an environment that more closely resembles in vivo conditions than air dried samples.
Development and Optimisation of a red ginseng Beverage from Codonopsis javanica in Vietnam: Sensory and Microbial Safety Evaluation
Authors: Ho Tram Thi Ngoc , Pham Loan Thi Hong , Nguyen Hoan Thai
Published: February 2025

Objectives

The study aimed to develop a protocol for producing a beverage from Codonopsis javanica ( C. javanica) (red ginseng) root extract, incorporating additives to enhance its overall sensory appeal. Key parameters, including triterpenoid saponin content, °Brix, pH, suspended solids, and moisture, were analyzed. Sensory evaluations were conducted to optimize the formulation, and the microbial safety of the final product was assessed.

Methods

Dried C. javanica roots were ground into powder and extracted using enzyme-assisted extraction with viscozyme® L. The extract was analyzed for triterpenoid saponin content, °Brix and pH, and the powder was measured for moisture content. Optimal heating conditions for suspended solid content were determined at three heating temperatures (70 °C, 75 °C and 80 °C) for 8 and 12 min, respectively. Different ratios of red ginseng extract to water (7:3, 8:2, 9:1 and 10:0), as well as varying concentrations of citric acid (0.0% and 0.1%), sucrose (8%, 10%, 12% and 14%), and honey (1% and 1.5%), were surveyed for sensory evaluation by a panel of testers. Product pasteurization (at 100 °C for 15 min) was performed to ensure microbial safety and microbiological standards were assessed after 28 days of storage.

Results

The optimal extraction method yielded a high °Brix (9.20), low pH (3.62), and a triterpenoid saponin content of 53.66 mg/100 g. Heating red ginseng extract at 80 °C for 8 min resulted in optimal suspended solid content. The most favourable sensory results were achieved with a dilution ratio of 8:2 (ginseng extract:water). The addition of 12% sucrose alone or 12% sucrose combined with 1.5% honey provided the best taste scores. Pasteurization ensured the absence of microorganisms, meeting national standards for non-alcoholic beverages.

Conclusion

The study successfully developed a red ginseng beverage with optimal sensory qualities and ensured microbial safety. The findings provide a foundation for further commercialization of red ginseng beverages, highlighting the importance of balanced formulations and proper processing techniques.
Daylighting and Patients’ Access to View Assessment in the Palestinian Hospitals’ ICUs
Authors: Amleh Deema , Halawani Abdelrahman , Haj Hussein Muhannad , Alamlih Laith
Published: February 2025

Daylight and access to a view out are vital factors in improving patients’ wellness, side by side healthcare providers’ satisfaction and productivity in intensive care units (ICUs). Unfortunately, insufficient attention was paid to this issue in Palestine resulting in many ICU designs lacking the required daylight and access to view, which, in turn, negatively affects patients’ wellness, increasing delirium incidence and sleep disorders. This study aims to assess the Palestinian hospitals’ ICUs in terms of daylight and patients’ access to view by conducting daylight measurements and field observations. The results show that the available ICU designs in Palestine do not provide adequate daylight and access to view for patients.