bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of offensive-reward rules on young basketball players’ performance during small-sided games
Authors: Abade Eduardo , Figueira Bruno , Coutinho Diogo , Folgado Hugo , Moreira Catarina , Gonçalves Bruno
Published: January 2025

This study aimed to investigate the impact of different offensive-reward-related rules on the physical performance, perceived exertion and enjoyment of young basketball players during small-sided games (SSG). Eighteen youth male players (age: 13.3±0.9y; height: 167.0±13.1cm; weight: 50.6±11.5kg; years of practice: 3.1±1.2y) participated in three distinct 3x3 SSG (14x15m pitch) experimental conditions: i) 3x3NORMAL, regular 3x3 game; ii) 3x3POINT-POSS, where the team in possession was rewarded a new ball possession after scoring; iii) 3x3PASSES, where the score was determined by the number of passes made before converting a basket. Players’ performance was measured using global positioning systems, rating of perceived exertion and the Physical Activity Enjoyment Scale. Players covered more distance for total (p< .001), low (p< .01) and moderate-speed distance (p< .05), and presented a higher game pace (p< .001) during the 3x3POINT-POSS than in the other conditions. A higher number of accelerations (1–1.99 m·s-2, p < .01) and decelerations (>2 m·s-2, p < .01) were also reported in the 3x3POINT-POSS. Despite the higher external load in the 3x3POINT-POSS, players reported higher perceived exertion during the 3x3PASSES (small to moderate effects). In addition, players reported the 3x3POINT-POSS as being more enjoyfull than the 3x3NORMAL. In conclusion, coaches may consider incorporating the 3x3POINT-POSS to enhance players’ external load while simultaneously increasing enjoyment and decreasing perceived exertion. Conversely, the 3x3PASSES condition may be useful for promoting adaptive behaviors under a higher perception of effort. Thus, coaches should carefully choose the type of rewards when designing training tasks for youth basketball players.
Prediction of the need for surgery in patients with unruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm based on SOFA score
Authors: Weng Chao , Yu Cong , Yang Guang-wei , Jiang Jin-song , Wu Hao
Published: January 2025

Objective

This retrospective study aimed to explore the association and clinical value of sequential organ failure assessment (SOFA) score on the predictors of adverse events in patients with unruptured abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA).

Methods

A total of 322 patients from Medical Information Mart for Intensive Care IV database were enrolled. Logistic regression was conducted to explore the association between SOFA and primary outcome (need for surgery, NFS). Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) and nomogram analyses were used to assess its performance for predicting NFS. We also explored the association and clinical value of SOFA on secondary outcomes including hospital length of stay (LOS), ICU-LOS, and in-hospital mortality by linear and logistic regression analyses, generalized additive model, ROC, and decision curve analysis.

Results

Totally 291 patients underwent the surgery. High SOFA score significantly correlated with NFS both in crude and adjusted models (all P<0.05). SOFA had a relatively favorable prediction performance on NFS (AUC = 0.701, 95%CI: 0.596–0.802). After adjusting for related diseases, its prediction performance was increased. When SOFA was combined with lactate and gender, the model showed an AUC of 0.888 (95%CI: 0.759–1.000) and 0.3–0.9 prediction possibility. Further, the SOFA also showed significant relationship with hospital-LOS, ICU-LOS, and in-hospital mortality (all P<0.05), and exerted some value in the prediction of 7-day hospital-LOS (AUC = 0.637, 95%CI: 0.575–0.686) and in-hospital mortality (AUC = 0.637, 95%CI: 0.680–0.845).

Conclusions

SOFA score was related to the NFS and can be regarded as a useful indicator for predicting the NFS in patients with AAA.
Association between exclusive or dual use of combustible cigarettes and heated tobacco products and depressive symptoms
Authors: Lee Bo Gyeong , Lee Haein , Kim Namhee
Published: January 2025

Purpose

Despite the advent of heated tobacco products (HTPs), their relationship to mental health remains unclear. This study aimed to determine associations between the use of combustible cigarettes (CCs) and HTPs with depressive symptoms.

Methods

This descriptive-analytical cross-sectional study was conducted in March 2023. Using the 8th Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, 5,349 adults aged 19 years or older were classified into four groups: non-users, CC-only users, HTP-only users, and dual users. Relationships between exclusive or dual use of CCs and HTPs and depressive symptoms were analyzed using item scores and total scores of the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9). To examine associations between exclusive or dual use of CCs and HTPs and depressive symptoms, a multinomial regression analysis was performed using the PHQ-9 total score.

Results

HTP-only users had the highest proportion of those with anhedonia and depressed mood. CC-only users had the highest proportion of individuals with trouble sleeping, while dual users had a higher proportion of those with fatigue and appetite problems. After adjusting for general characteristics, compared to non-users, CC-only users were more likely to have mild and moderate to severe depressive symptoms. HTP-only users and dual users were also more likely to have moderate to severe depressive symptoms.

Conclusions

All smokers have a higher risk of depression than non-smokers. Health care providers should closely monitor depressive symptoms, especially in HTP users and dual users of tobacco products.
Factors affecting behaviors during complementary feeding in infants and children aged 6–24 months
Authors: Demirel Ozbek Yagmur , Celik Isa , Sahin Bilgin Aysenur
Published: January 2025

The process that begins around the 6th month of life and continues until the 24th month is called the complementary feeding period. During this period, infants and children start receiving foods that complement breast milk or formula for the first time. The psychosocial factors the infants and children encounter during this period may affect their growth and health in later life. This cross-sectional and descriptive study aimed to examine the factors influencing behaviors of infants and children during complementary feeding. The study sample included 345 mothers with infants and children aged 6–24 months. The research data were collected using two forms and one scale. The first form contained questions about the mothers’ sociodemographic characteristics, sources of support in childcare, and information sources related to complementary feeding. The second form contained questions about the sociodemographic characteristics of infants and children, the presence of allergies, breastfeeding, and feeding status. The scale used was the validated Behaviors of Transition to Complementary Feeding Scale. The effect of independent variables on behavior of infants and children during complementary feeding was examined using multiple linear regression analysis. Infants/children older than 12 months exhibited more negative behaviors during complementary feeding compared with those aged 6–12 months. The study also found that being the first infant/child in the family had a negative impact on behaviors during complementary feeding. Infants and children currently receiving only complementary feeding displayed more positive behaviors during the complementary feeding process. Paternal support in childcare positively influenced behaviors during this period. In conclusion, complementary feeding is a multifaceted process influenced by various factors, including the infant’s and child’s age, family dynamics, and parental support. Strategies to support mothers, involve fathers, and provide reliable information can facilitate a smoother process of complementary feeding and promote healthier feeding behaviors in infants and children. Descriptive, interventional, qualitative, and mixed-methods studies are required to analyze these factors in detail and improve the complementary feeding process.
pyAKI—An open source solution to automated acute kidney injury classification
Authors: Porschen Christian , Ernsting Jan , Brauckmann Paul , Weiss Raphael , Würdemann Till , Booke Hendrik , Amini Wida , Maidowski Ludwig , Risse Benjamin , Hahn Tim , von Groote Thilo
Published: January 2025

Objective

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a frequent complication in critically ill patients, affecting up to 50% of patients in the intensive care units. The lack of standardized and open-source tools for applying the Kidney Disease Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) criteria to time series, requires researchers to implement classification algorithms of their own which is resource intensive and might impact study quality by introducing different interpretations of edge cases. This project introduces pyAKI, an open-source pipeline addressing this gap by providing a comprehensive solution for consistent KDIGO criteria implementation.

Materials and methods

The pyAKI pipeline was developed and validated using a subset of the Medical Information Mart for Intensive Care (MIMIC)-IV database, a commonly used database in critical care research. We constructed a standardized data model in order to ensure reproducibility. PyAKI implements the Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) guideline on AKI diagnosis. After implementation of the diagnostic algorithm, using both serum creatinine and urinary output data, pyAKI was tested on a subset of patients and diagnostic accuracy was compared in a comparative analysis against annotations by physicians.

Results

Validation against expert annotations demonstrated pyAKI’s robust performance in implementing KDIGO criteria. Comparative analysis revealed its ability to surpass the quality of human labels with an accuracy of 1.0 in all categories.

Discussion

The pyAKI pipeline is the first open-source solution for implementing KDIGO criteria in time series data. It provides a standardized data model and a comprehensive solution for consistent AKI classification in research applications for clinicians and data scientists working with AKI data. The pipeline’s high accuracy make it a valuable tool for clinical research and decision support systems.

Conclusion

This work introduces pyAKI as an open-source solution for implementing the KDIGO criteria for AKI diagnosis using time series data with high accuracy and performance.
Parkinson’s disease screening using a fusion of gait point cloud and silhouette features
Authors: Connie Tee , Aderinola Timilehin B. , Ong Jia You , Ong Thian Song , Goh Michael Kah Ong , Erfianto Bayu , Purnama Bedy , Lim Ming De , Saedon Nor Izzati
Published: January 2025

Parkinson’s Disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disorder that is often accompanied by slowness of movement (bradykinesia) or gradual reduction in the frequency and amplitude of repetitive movement (hypokinesia). There is currently no cure for PD, but early detection and treatment can slow down its progression and lead to better treatment outcomes. Vision-based approaches have been proposed for the early detection of PD using gait. Gait can be captured using appearance-based or model-based approaches. Although appearance-based gait contains comprehensive features, it is easily affected by factors such as dressing. On the other hand, model-based gait is robust against changes in dressing and external contours, but it is often too sparse to contain sufficient information. Therefore, we propose a fusion of appearance-based and model-based gait features for PD prediction. First, we extracted keypoint coordinates from gait captured in videos and modeled these keypoints as a point cloud. The silhouette images are also segmented from the videos to obtain an overall appearance representation of the subject. We then perform a binary classification of gait as normal or Parkinsonian using a novel fusion of the gait point cloud and silhouette features, obtaining AUC up to 0.87 and F1-Scores up to 0.82 (precision: 0.85, recall: 0.80).
Noether and partial Noether approach for the nonlinear (3+1)-dimensional elastic wave equations
Authors: Hussain Akhtar , Usman M. , Zaman Fiazuddin , Zidan Ahmed M. , Herrera Jorge
Published: January 2025

The Lie group method is a powerful technique for obtaining analytical solutions for various nonlinear differential equations. This study aimed to explore the behavior of nonlinear elastic wave equations and their underlying physical properties using Lie group invariants. We derived eight-dimensional symmetry algebra for the (3+1)-dimensional nonlinear elastic wave equation, which was used to obtain the optimal system. Group-invariant solutions were obtained using this optimal system. The same analysis was conducted for the damped version of this equation. For the conservation laws, we applied Noether’s theorem to the nonlinear elastic wave equations owing to the availability of a classical Lagrangian. However, for the damped version, we cannot obtain a classical Lagrangian, which makes Noether’s theorem inapplicable. Instead, we used an extended approach based on the concept of a partial Lagrangian to uncover conservation laws. Both techniques account for the conservation laws of linear momentum and energy within the model. These novel approaches add an application of variational calculus to the existing literature. This offers valuable insights and potential avenues for further exploration of the elastic wave equations.
Risk assessment and prevention in airport security assurance by integrating LSTM algorithm
Authors: Hu Yao , Qiao Liguang , Gu Feng
Published: January 2025

The risk assessment and prevention in traditional airport safety assurance usually rely on human experience for analysis, and there are problems such as heavy manual workload, excessive subjectivity, and significant limitations. This article proposed a risk assessment and prevention mechanism for airport security assurance that integrated LSTM algorithm. It analyzed the causes of malfunctioning flights by collecting airport flight safety log datasets. This article extracted features related to risk assessment, such as weather factors, airport facility inspections, and security check results, and conducted qualitative and quantitative analysis on these features to generate a datable risk warning weight table. This article used these data to establish an LSTM model, which trained LSTM to identify potential risks and provide early warning by learning patterns and trends in historical data. It then handed over the new data to the trained LSTM model for risk assessment and prediction, grading and warning of risks. It monitored the airport security situation in real-time based on the results and quickly notified airport security personnel to handle it. The outcome indicates that the standard error of the LSTM algorithm model training is less than 0.18, and the decision coefficients were all greater than 0.9. The predicted data was highly consistent with the actual data. It can be summarized that the algorithmic model has good accuracy and robustness. The LSTM algorithm can play a role in providing early warning, assisting decision-making, optimizing resources, and enhancing real-time monitoring in airport security assurance. It can effectively improve the safety and prevention capabilities of airports, and reduce the losses caused by potential risks.
The impact of the centralized volume-based procurement policy on Chinese pharmaceutical manufacturing firms’ R&D investment: A difference-in-differences approach
Authors: Qiu Fangjun , Chen Shouming , Li Yujia , Wang Xianjing , Zhu Mengfei
Published: January 2025

Centralized drug procurement is a common practice worldwide to relieve the healthcare burden and promote high-quality development in the pharmaceutical industry. However, scholars have not yet reached an agreement on whether centralized procurement can facilitate the innovation activities of pharmaceutical firms. China’s centralized volume-based procurement (CVBP) implemented in 2018 provides an ideal quasi-natural experiment to evaluate the effect of centralized procurement on the R&D investment of the firms. Drawing data from listed manufacturing firms in China’s A-share market (2015–2020), the results from a difference-in-differences analysis with different model specifications indicate that the CVBP significantly promotes the pharmaceutical manufacturing firms’ R&D investment. Moreover, the positive effect of the CVBP on R&D investment is stronger in pharmaceutical manufacturing firms with high marketing expenses. A series of robustness tests including the parallel trend test, placebo test, and the PSM-DID analysis show that our findings are solid. This paper advances our understanding of centralized procurement in emerging markets and provides new insights into how governments and pharmaceutical manufacturing firms can strengthen innovation.
Whole genome sequences of nine Taylorella equigenitalis strains isolated in the Czech Republic between 1982–2021: Molecular dating suggests a common ancestor at the time of Roman Empire
Authors: Hrala Matěj , Andrla Petr , Bosák Juraj , Fedrová Pavla , Mugutdinov Amir , Karpíšková Renata , Nedbalcová Kateřina , Raichová Jitka , Faldyna Martin , Hořín Petr , Šmajs David
Published: January 2025

Taylorella equigenitalis is the causative agent of sexually transmitted contagious equine metritis. Infections manifest as cervicitis, vaginitis and endometritis and cause temporary infertility and miscarriages of mares. While previous studies have analyzed this organism for various parameters, the evolutionary dynamics of this pathogen, including the emergence of antibiotic resistance, remains unresolved. The aim of this study was to isolate contemporary strains, determine their genome sequences, evaluate their antibiotic resistance and compare them with other strains. We determined nine complete whole genome sequences of T. equigenitalis strains, mainly from samples collected from Kladruber horses in the Czech Republic. While T. equigenitalis strains from Kladruby isolated between 1982 and 2018 were inhibited by streptomycin, contemporary strains were found to be resistant to streptomycin, suggesting the recent emergence of this mutation. In addition, we used the collection dates of Kladruber horse strains to estimate the genome substitution rate, which resulted in a scaled mean evolutionary rate of 6.9×10−7 substitutions per site per year. Analysis with other available T. equigenitalis genome sequences (n = 18) revealed similarity of the Czech T. equigenitalis genomes with the Austrian T. equigenitalis genome, and molecular dating suggested a common ancestor of all analyzed T. equigenitalis strains from 1.5–2.6 thousand years ago, dating to the first centuries A.D. Our study revealed a recently emerged streptomycin resistance in T. equigenitalis strains from Kladruber horses, emphasizing the need for antibiotic surveillance and alternative treatments. Additionally, our findings provided insights into the pathogen’s evolution rate, which is important for understanding its evolution and preparing preventive strategies.
Late-stage changes in the composition of cell walls of maize plants expressing an apoplast targeted, senescence enhanced fungal ferulic acid esterase, and the subsequent effects on tissue saccharification
Authors: Buanafina Marcia M. de O. , Morris Phillip , Dalton Sue , Buanafina M. Fernanda , Wang Yijuan
Published: January 2025

Using maize plants expressing an apoplast targeted Aspergillus niger ferulic acid esterase (FAEA), with FAEA driven by a Lolium multiflorum senescence enhanced promoter (LmSee1), we extended measurements of FAEA activity to late-stage senescing plants and measured the stability of FAEA activity following stover storage. The impact of FAEA expression on cell wall hydroxycinnamic acid levels and arabinoxylan (AX) cross-links, and on the levels of cell wall sugars, acetyl bromide lignin and sugar release following saccharification by a cocktail of cellulases and xylanases, was assessed during plant development to full leaf senescence. These were determined in both individual internodes and in combined leaves and combined internodes of FAEA expressing and control partner plants. FAEA expression was found to increase with plant growth up to the reproductive stage (R) of development in both stems and leaves but decreased as the leaves entered full senescence at R+ (18–20 d after R) stage. Moreover, FAEA activity was shown to be relatively stable over a six-month period following stover storage at 4°C. This FAEA expression resulted in significantly reduced levels of cell wall ferulates and diferulates in internodes. The internodes of late stage and senescing FAEA-expressing plants exhibited significantly improved saccharification with a cocktail of cellulase and xylanase enzymes at both the R and R+ stages of development.
Uncovering NK cell sabotage in gut diseases via single cell transcriptomics
Authors: Lee Hansong , Ko Dai Sik , Heo Hye Jin , Baek Seung Eun , Kim Eun Kyoung , Kwon Eun Jung , Kang Junho , Yu Yeuni , Baryawno Ninib , Kim Kihun , Lee Dongjun , Kim Yun Hak
Published: January 2025

The identification of immune environments and cellular interactions in the colon microenvironment is essential for understanding the mechanisms of chronic inflammatory disease. Despite occurring in the same organ, there is a significant gap in understanding the pathophysiology of ulcerative colitis (UC) and colorectal cancer (CRC). Our study aims to address the distinct immunopathological response of UC and CRC. Using single-cell RNA sequencing datasets, we analyzed the profiles of immune cells in colorectal tissues obtained from healthy donors, UC patients, and CRC patients. The colon tissues from patients and healthy participants were visualized by immunostaining followed by laser confocal microscopy for select targets. Natural killer (NK) cells from UC patients on medication showed reduced cytotoxicity compared to those from healthy individuals. Nonetheless, a UC-specific pathway called the BAG6-NCR3 axis led to higher levels of inflammatory cytokines and increased the cytotoxicity of NCR3+ NK cells, thereby contributing to the persistence of colitis. In the context of colorectal cancer (CRC), both NK cells and CD8+ T cells exhibited significant changes in cytotoxicity and exhaustion. The GALECTIN-9 (LGALS9)-HAVCR2 axis was identified as one of the CRC-specific pathways. Within this pathway, NK cells solely communicated with myeloid cells under CRC conditions. HAVCR2+ NK cells from CRC patients suppressed NK cell-mediated cytotoxicity, indicating a reduction in immune surveillance. Overall, we elucidated the comprehensive UC and CRC immune microenvironments and NK cell-mediated immune responses. Our findings can aid in selecting therapeutic targets that increase the efficacy of immunotherapy.
Factors associated with adherence to antiretroviral therapy among HIV-positive adolescents and young adult patients attending HIV care and treatment clinic at Bombo Hospital in Tanga region-Tanzania
Authors: Kamote Sophia , Tesha Novatus Apolinary , Sunguya Bruno F.
Published: January 2025

Background

Adherence to HIV treatment regimens involves the consistent and correct intake of all prescribed medications. The implementation of antiretroviral therapy (ART) program has significantly reduced mortality among adolescents living with HIV. However, adherence to ART is lower among adolescents compared to other sub-populations and even lower in sub-Saharan Africa. The factors influencing ART adherence are context-specific and vary across countries and regions. In the Tanzanian context, there is a paucity of data regarding these factors.

Methodology

This cross-sectional study involved 385 adolescents and young adults living with HIV receiving treatment at Bombo Hospital Referral Hospital’s Care and Treatment Clinic, in Tanga, Tanzania. To assess adherence, a one-month self-recall medication adherence scale was used while a structured questionnaire was used to gather data on determinants of adherence. Data were collected using Google Forms and subsequently exported as a Microsoft Excel file. The data were then entered into Stata software version 15 for cleaning for descriptive and logistic regression analyses.

Results

More than a third (35.3%) of adolescents and young adults living with HIV in Tanga were not adherent to the effective and available ART. Adolescents and young adults living in households experiencing moderate food insecurity were 67% less likely to adhere to ART (95%CI 0.16–0.66) compared to those who were food secure. Those with secondary education were 2.3 times more likely to adhere to ART (95%CI 1.02–5.23), compared to those without formal education. While participants who consistently obtain their ART at the clinic were more 4.2 times more likely to adhere to medication (95%CI 1.29–13.72), those experiencing ART side effects were 39% less likely to adhere to ART (95%CI 0.38–0.98).

Conclusion

More than one-third of adolescents and young adults were not adherent to ART in Tanga, Tanzania. Addressing such unprecedented challenges calls for efforts targeting adolescents and young adults with limited education, from households with food insecurity, and ensuring counseling and management of ART side effects.
Virtual screening and molecular dynamics simulations identify repurposed drugs as potent inhibitors of Histone deacetylase 1: Implication in cancer therapeutics
Authors: Alrouji Mohammed , Yasmin Sabina , Alshammari Mohammed S. , Alhumaydhi Fahad A. , Sharaf Sharaf E. , Shahwan Moyad , Shamsi Anas
Published: January 2025

Epigenetic processes are the critical events in carcinogenesis. Histone modification plays a crucial role in gene expression regulation, where histone deacetylases (HDACs) are key players in epigenetic processes. Inhibiting HDACs has shown promise in modern cancer therapy. However, the non-selective nature and drug resistance of most HDAC inhibitors (HDACIs) limits their clinical use. This limitation prompts a search for isoform-selective and more effective inhibitors. Histone deacetylase 1 (HDAC1) is a member of the class I HDAC family and has emerged as a promising target in various diseases, including cancer and neurodegeneration. Drug repurposing has gained significant interest in identifying treatments for new targets, which involves finding new uses for existing drugs beyond their original medical indications. Here, we employed virtual screening of repurposed drugs from the DrugBank database to identify potential HDAC1 inhibitors. We conducted a series of analyses, including molecular docking, drug profiling, PASS evaluation, and interaction analysis. Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations and MM-PBSA analysis were also performed for 300 ns. Through these analyses, we pinpointed Alectinib, which exhibits a promising drug profile in PASS analysis and higher affinity and efficiency for HDAC1 than the reference inhibitor. MD simulations revealed that Alectinib stabilizes HDAC1 with minimal structural perturbations. The findings suggest that Alectinib holds promise as a therapeutic lead for HDAC1-associated carcinogenesis after required validation.
Characteristics of split-step skills of the world’s top athletes in badminton
Authors: Shishido Hidehiko , Nishijima Takeshi
Published: January 2025

Objective

The purpose of this study was to quantitatively measure the split-step skills of the world’s top badminton players to clarify the characteristics underlying these skills when moving into the forehand position in the rear court.

Methods

We analyzed the four best ranking players (1st to 4th) in the men’s singles competition at the World Badminton Federation (BWF) World Championships 2023, a world tournament whose match videos are available online. Analysis 1 was conducted to determine the location of the players’ feet on the court when performing a split-step while moving to the forehand rear court, as well as the width of the stance and the reaction time from that stance to taking the first step. To define the characteristics of top athletes, the split-step skill performance of these athletes was evaluated during play. Analysis 2 was used to determine whether the performance of the split-step when moving to the forehand rear court varied depending on the position of the opposing player.

Results

Analysis 1 showed that the split-step position was gathered close to the base, with an average split-step reaction time of 0.25 s and a split-step stance width comprising 50% of the players’ height. These results were similar among all top players evaluated. Analysis 2 showed that the difference in the number of shuttlecocks that hit the opponent’s backhand rear court (LR) affected their degree of split-step skill.

Conclusion

In this study, we quantitatively measured the split-step skills of the world’s top badminton athletes and clarified the characteristics of their positioning into the forehand rear court during active play. Herein, movement and performance analysis using match videos available online was used to gain novel insights into the performance of these athletes.
A NOTCH3 pathogenic variant influences osteogenesis and can be targeted by antisense oligonucleotides in induced pluripotent stem cells
Authors: Canalis Ernesto , Yu Jungeun , Schilling Lauren , Jafar-nejad Paymaan , Carrer Michele
Published: January 2025

Lateral Meningocele Syndrome (LMS), a disorder associated with NOTCH3 pathogenic variants, presents with neurological, craniofacial and skeletal abnormalities. Mouse models of the disease exhibit osteopenia that is ameliorated by the administration of Notch3 antisense oligonucleotides (ASO) targeting either Notch3 or the Notch3 mutation. To determine the consequences of LMS pathogenic variants in human cells and whether they can be targeted by ASOs, induced pluripotent NCRM1 and NCRM5 stem (iPS) cells harboring a NOTCH36692-93insC insertion were created. Parental iPSCs, NOTCH36692-93insC and isogenic controls, free of chromosomal aberrations as determined by human CytoSNP850 array, were cultured under conditions of neural crest, mesenchymal and osteogenic cell differentiation. The expected cell phenotype was confirmed by surface markers and a decline in OCT3/4 and NANOG mRNA. NOTCH36692-93insC cells displayed enhanced expression of Notch target genes HES1, HEY1, 2 and L demonstrating a NOTCH3 gain-of-function. There was enhanced osteogenesis in NOTCH36692-93insC cells as evidenced by increased mineralized nodule formation and ALPL, BGLAP and BSP expression. ASOs targeting NOTCH3 decreased both NOTCH3 wild type and NOTCH36692-93insC mutant mRNA by 40% in mesenchymal and 90% in osteogenic cells. ASOs targeting the NOTCH3 insertion decreased NOTCH36692-93insC by 70–80% in mesenchymal cells and by 45–55% in osteogenic cells and NOTCH3 mRNA by 15–30% and 20–40%, respectively. In conclusion, a NOTCH3 pathogenic variant causes a modest increase in osteoblastogenesis in human iPS cells in vitro and NOTCH3 and NOTCH3 mutant specific ASOs downregulate NOTCH3 transcripts associated with LMS.
Factors influencing fans’ spectating experience and configuration effects in CBA league
Authors: Yu Duan , Fan Hongwei , Zhang Ning
Published: January 2025

The low satisfaction of fans’ spectator experience, the weak willingness to continue to watch games have become the realistic barriers limiting the sustained and favorable development of Chinese Basketball Association league (CBA League). Using Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) and Fuzzy-set Qualitative Comparative Analysis (fsQCA), this study clarifies the complex causal relationship behind the phenomenon of fans’ spectator experience, explore the linkage mechanism between different influencing factors of spectator experience. Also constructs a variety of grouping paths to enhance the fans’ spectator experience in the CBA League. The results shows that Sense, Feel, Think, Act, Relate and Spectator Service all positively affect the satisfaction of the live Spectator experience in the CBA League. Among six influencing factors, none of them is the necessary condition for high satisfaction of Fans’ Spectator Experience. In this way, the characteristics of multi-factors and different paths of the live Spectator experience were verified. Influential factors were coupled to form six grouping paths for high satisfaction of the fans’ spectator experience, which were categorized into two types of configurations by combining the grouping characteristics: 1) Led by spectator service, feel and act experience co-driven, 2) Spectator service and think experience co-driven. The findings provide theoretical guidance for enhancing fan experience and meeting the practical needs of cultivating loyal CBA fan groups while expanding the league’s influence.
Study on construction mechanic characteristics and construction optimization of super-large cross-section tunnel portal under shallow buried depth and asymmetrical loading: A case study in Southwest China
Authors: Chen Hao , Zheng Haozan , Liu Bolong , Huang Man , Liu Jiawei
Published: January 2025

The excavation of the super-large cross-section tunnel portal section is prone to causing serious engineering distresses. The key factors to ensure the safe construction of portal section are to clarify the construction mechanic characteristics and select a reasonable construction scheme. In this paper, a bidirectional six-lane expressway tunnel in Southwest China was selected as an engineering case. Three excavation schemes, namely, the three-bench seven-step excavation method (TEM), the central diaphragm method (CDM), and the double side drift method (DSDM), were compared and analyzed. Findings revealed that due to the effect of the asymmetrically loaded and super-large cross-section, the surrounding rock deformation and supporting structure stress at the deep buried side were greater than those at the shallow buried side. The CDM and DSDM could reduce the tunnel span and provide temporary support in time, which could effectively control the surrounding rock deformation and improve the structural stress and the slope stability. According to the topographic condition, the excavation sequence of the DSDM was optimized. Excavating the shallow buried side drift first could alleviate the surrounding rock deformation and improve the slope stability in the early stage of construction. Finally, the optimal excavation scheme was successfully implemented.
Employing foreign caregivers: A qualitative study of the perspectives of older stroke survivors
Authors: Lin Yen-Nung , Mauludina Yosika Septi , Fields Beth E. , Liou Tsan-Hon , Su Yu , Tsai Han-Ting , Chang Feng-Hang
Published: January 2025

Background

Global populations are aging, and the numbers of stroke survivors is increasing. Consequently, the need for caregiver support has increased. Because of this and demographic and socioeconomic changes, foreign caregivers are increasingly in demand in many developed countries. Therefore, the perspectives of older adult care recipients regarding foreign caregivers warrants attention. This study explored the experiences of older stroke survivors receiving care from foreign caregivers in Taiwan, examining their expectations, needs, and challenges.

Methods

This study employed a descriptive qualitative approach, conducting in-depth interviews with 23 older stroke survivors (mean age, 73.4 years; women, 47.8%). Thematic analysis was applied to transcribed data, with reflective memos aiding in meaning derivation. Methodological rigor was ensured through member checking, triangulation, and auditing.

Results

Three major themes emerged: the motivations for hiring a foreign caregiver, expectations of stroke survivors toward foreign caregivers, and challenges related to employing foreign caregivers. Stroke survivors expected foreign caregivers to be obedient, embrace the local language and culture, and be proficient in caregiving and homemaking. Various challenges, including communication difficulties, cultural differences, skill gaps, and unfavorable attitudes and behaviors among caregivers, were noted.

Conclusions

Foreign caregivers are a major part of the long-term care workforce and play a crucial role in stroke rehabilitation in aging Asian societies. Older stroke survivors often hire foreign caregivers to alleviate caregiving burdens, and they typically expect foreign caregivers to conform to their needs. However, employing foreign caregivers can be frustrating and stressful. Government intervention and open dialogue is necessary to improve care quality and prevent recurring caregiving problems and conflicts.
VINCULUM. Entailment identity: construction, transmission, perpetuation
Authors: Nóvoa Rita Sampaio da
Published: January 2025

Neste livro fala-se de identidade, uma identidade que já não existe e que só pode ser compreendida através de um exercício de historicização e alteridade. Identidade vincular refere-se à forma como se construiu, transmitiu e perpetuou identidade através dos vínculos, um instituição legal pré-moderna específica, no seio dos corpos familiares. Como é que o uso de símbolos identitários, como os apelidos e as armas, respondeu à necessidade de imortalização da memória? Quais foram os requisito identitários físicos, mentais e morais que definiram o herdeiro (im)perfeito? Que papéis foram atribuídos aos arquivos enquanto lugares de memória, poder e identidade? De que formas é que a identidade se prolongou para além da morte? Como é que a identidade se construiu em comunidade e de que modo é que os vínculos beneficiaram a comunidade e, num sentido inverso, foram por ela beneficiados?
Regenerating Urban Landscapes through Wetlands Restoration and Outdoor Open Space Connectivity: Off-road Bicycle Lane Planning Principles for Tourism Development
Authors: Adesina John Adekunle , Tang Xiaolan , Uduma-Olugu Nnezi , Adebamowo Michael
Published: January 2025

Purpose – Sustainable tourism development and outdoor activities are linked to the effective utilization of open spaces and green corridors within the city. The regeneration and revitalization of this landscape are vital for the emergence of a smart, resilient, and biophilic city for the health and well-being of both the residents and the tourists. This area is part of the urban fabric and is essential for the transportation network development and interconnectivity within the metropolitan space. The wetland and green corridor comprise marshes and canal drainage routes located within the setbacks of the Ikeja, Ojodu, Agidingbi, Opebi, Oregun, Maryland, Yaba, and Iwaya rivers floodplain.
Design/methodology/approach – Qualitative and descriptive analysis of the on-site data collection, observations, and evaluations, Geographic Information Systems (GIS) were utilized to map out the developmental and adaptive strategies through GIS-based network mapping. This involved randomly selecting twenty-six (26) points that are landmarks and notable hubs within the city at approximately 750m intervals aligned within the 20km corridor of the waterways and wetlands of the selected study area.
Findings – Through a variety of on-site observations, assessments, interviews, and inferential methods, people’s perceptions of the use of off-road bike lanes, and its economic and social information were gathered.
Research limitations/implications – A healthy ecosystem, less reliance on fossil fuels, more green space, habitat restoration, clean water and air, and increased green space are all important for a city's overall well-being.
Practical implications – This study suggested off-road non-motorized transportation connectivity, and other strategically adapted alternatives for resilient and sustainable city growth, in addition to carbon sequestration through restoration and preservation of already-existing wetlands.
Originality/value – The restoration of urban desolate spaces, improvement of sanitation, governance of floodplains, recreation, and cultural values within metropolitan areas.
Cord blood iron status and vitamin D concentration in newborns of anemic and non-anemic mothers in Makassar, Indonesia
Authors: Ridha Nadirah Rasyid , Massi Muhammad Nasrum , Fikri Bahrul , Putri Sri Hardiyanti , Hidayah Najdah , Arsyad Andi Fatimah
Published: January 2025

Background Iron deficiency (ID) is a common micronutrient problem, especially in pregnant women in developing countries such as Indonesia. Moreover, vitamin D deficiency is also a major concern in worldwide public health. A correlation between anemia, ID, and vitamin D deficiency in children has been identified, but investigations in pregnant women and their newborn babies are still limited.
Objective To assess association between iron status and vitamin D levels in umbilical cord blood and maternal anemia.
Methods This cross-sectional study involved 109 pregnant women and their newborns. They were divided into two groups, with and without maternal anemia. Collected cord blood (2 mL) was placed in tubes with ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA). Plasma ferritin and vitamin D (25-hydroxyvitamin D, 25(OH)D) levels were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).
Results Maternal anemia was found in 60 mothers (55% subjects). The mean cord blood hemoglobin levels for the anemic and non-anemic groups were 15.19 (SD 2.25) g/dL and 15.12 (SD 1.98) g/dL, respectively (P=0.87). Median cord blood ferritin levels were slightly lower in anemic [12.95 (range 0.42-17.69) µg/L] than in non-anemic mothers[13.45 (range 7.10-22.12) µg/L], but were not significantly different (P=0.555). Median cord blood 25(OH)D levels were lower in the anemic group [12.24 (range 8.53-32.99) ng/dL] than in the non-anemic group [14.26 (range 9.84-61.44) ng/dL], but the difference was not significant (P=0.964).
Conclusion Maternal anemia was not significantly associated with cord blood hemoglobin, ferritin, or 25(OH)D levels.
Tri-ponderal mass index vs. body mass index to determine obesity and central obesity in adolescents
Authors: Moelyo Annang Giri , Ferdian Hanum
Published: January 2025

Background Tri-ponderal mass index (TMI) is as accurate as body mass index (BMI) in predicting body fat in children and adolescents. Despite TMI simplicity, there have been few studies comparing the sensitivity and specificity of TMI and BMI in determining obesity and central obesity in adolescents.
Objective To compare the sensitivity and specificity of TMI and BMI in determining general obesity and central obesity in adolescents.
Methods This cross-sectional study was conducted in Surakarta. Healthy school children aged 12 to 17 years underwent TMI, BMI, and waist circumference measurements in 2016, 2017, 2019. Tri-ponderal mass index was calculated as the weight divided by the height in metres cubed (kg/m3). General obesity was defined by the International Obesity Task Force (IOTF) classification of overweight-obese. The BMI-WHO overweight/obesity was defined as over the 85th percentile of the BMI SDS (WHO growth reference). Central obesity was defined as waist-to-height ratio (WtHR) ? 0.5. The sensitivity and specificity of TMI and BMI were calculated.
Results A total of 1,173 children and adolescents (837 girls, 336 boys) aged 12-17 years were recruited into this study. The overall prevalences of obesity by BMI-WHO, TMI, BMI-IOTF, and WtHR were 22.68%, 14.92%, 20.55%, and 32.74%, respectively. The sensitivity of BMI-WHO vs. TMI for general obesity was 100.00% vs. 77.71%, respectively (girls) and 100.00% vs. 59.52%, respectively (boys). The specificity was 98.24% vs. 99.56%, respectively (girls) and 98.84% vs. 100%, respectively (boys). The sensitivity of BMI-WHO vs. TMI for central obesity was 58.77% vs 48.82%, respectively (girls), and 47.40% vs 27.75%, respectively (boys). The specificity was 92.81% vs. 96.49%, respectively (girls), and 90.80% vs 98.77%, respectively (boys).
Conclusion Tri-ponderal mass index consistently showed higher specificity and lower sensitivity than BMI in assessing general and central obesity.
Exposing Commodification Practices in TVOne's Talk Show X Production Related to Issues the Murder of Brigadier Yosua Hutabarat (Vincent Mosco's Approach)
Authors: Ritmadhini Dwi Anggia , Eddyono Aryo Subarkah
Published: January 2025

The political economy in the TV industry forces a TV company to take various steps to sustain its business. This also happens in TVOne, particularly in the production of talk show X, where the commodification of content, viewers, and workers occurs. This study aims to explore the economic and political practices within the production process of talk show X, from the commodification of content, audience, and workers, particularly related to the murder of Brigadier Yosua Hutabarat. This is qualitative research that is conducted using a critical paradigm. The data were collected through in-depth interviews, observation, and document studies linked to Vincent Mosco’s theory. The results show that the content and audience data of Talk Show X are turned (turns) into commodities that have valued and generated profits for media companies, also, the worker commodification occurred against Talk Show X stakeholders. This research is limited to the economic and political practices within the production of talk show X, focusing on the murder of Brigadier Yosua Hutabarat which involved senior police officials, Inspector General Police Ferdy Sambo. The originality of this research lies in its specific focus on an in-depth analysis of the stage of the commodification of content, audience, and workers in the production process of talk show X, with particular emphasis on the murder of Brigadier Yosua Hutabarat
Women's Agency and the Shadow of Patriarchal Domination: Reflections on Kinokawa by Ariyoshi Sawako
Authors: Ariefa Nina Alia
Published: January 2025

Kinokawa (The River Ki) is Ariyoshi Sawako's first work, which is about three generations of Japanese women living in different eras. Ariyoshi's efforts in writing this novel are evident through the plot which tells the stories of women who lived during this period. Ariyoshi describes in detail the aspects of humanity affected by the rapid changes of the times. Like the seemingly calm Ki River that hides swirling currents underneath, this novel reveals the story of women who strive to cope with the dynamic changes of the times. In analysis, this study uses a feminist literary criticism approach, focusing on the stories of three female characters, Hana, Fumio, and Hanako. In addition to showing the gap between generations and is influenced by epochal changes toward Japan's new age, this study also reveals the dominant representation of women's agency. Through this novel, Ariyoshi exposes the demands that others and Japanese women place on themselves and reveals their strength. With a strong yet calm voice, Ariyoshi develops vivid female characters that make their mark in a world dominated by men.
Differential Diagnosis of Gingival Hyperplasia Based on IFN-γ-Stimulated Gene Expression Using Oligonucleotide Microarrays
Authors: Niedzielska Iwona
Published: January 2025

The aetiopathogenesis of epuli, a group of benign gingival hyperplasias, remains unclear. The purpose of the present study was to determine similarities and differences between benign (epulus) and malignant (cancer) gingival hyperplasias based on the evaluation of three signal pathways stimulated by the IFN-γ complex. Five gingival specimens sampled from giant cell epulus, fibrous epulus, central giant cell granuloma, high- and low-differentiated carcinoma were involved in the investigations. Based on literature data, a map was designed/developed, and selected genes of three signal pathways stimulated by the IFN-γ complex were marked on the map. Gene expression was compared on five oligonucleotide microarrays. In molecular analysis, giant cell epulus shows characteristics of a neoplastic lesion, while central giant cell granuloma constitutes a separate diagnostic entity different from epuli and carcinoma.