bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Advancing the Construct of Self-Leadership: A Bibliometric Review
Authors: Reichard Evan A. , Smith Daniel J. , Reichard Rebecca J. , Houghton Jeffery D.
Published: February 2025

Self-leadership, or an individual's efforts to influence oneself to perform, ­is considered a prerequisite for leading others. Informed by Reichers and Schneider's (1990) 3-stage model of construct evolution, we leverage multiple bibliometric methods to map self-leadership's introduction, evaluation, and consolidation. This paper is guided by four research questions: RQA) What theories underlie self-leadership, and how is the construct elaborated over time? RQB) What is the nature of the current intellectual network, and who are the key conversants of self-leadership research? RQC) What are the past, present, and emerging trends in self-leadership research? RQD) What directions can researchers pursue to advance self-leadership firmly into the third stage of construct evolution based on Reichers and Schneiders’ model? To answer these questions, we critically examine the core theories underlying self-leadership and their elaboration through time (Stage 1; historiography) to uncover the strengths and gaps in the origination of the construct (RQA). We also reveal the dominating (and missing) perspectives of key conversants (e.g., co-authorship analysis; RQB). Moving through Stage 2 of construct evaluation and augmentation, we leverage a bibliographic coupling of 539 documents to identify and describe emergent research themes and a co-word analysis to contrast traditional and trending topics (RQC). We argue that the self-leadership construct has just progressed into Stage 3 (i.e., consolidation and accommodation) as self-leadership research remains somewhat isolated from the broader leadership and organizational studies literature. Finally, we detail future research strategies to integrate relevant theories, identify boundary conditions, and generalize self-leadership across contexts, demographics, and authors (RQD).
Stress shielding influences shoulder function after reverse shoulder arthroplasty using a short stem at minimum 2 years follow-up and can be predicted using a preoperative planning software: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Franceschetti Edoardo , Gregori Pietro , Laudisio Alice , De Andreis Chiara , Perricone Giovanni , Giurazza Giancarlo , Paciotti Michele , Longo Umile Giuseppe , Papalia Rocco
Published: February 2025

Background

The aim of the study was to assess if 3D CT-scan-based planification of distal filling ratio (DFR) is accurate when compared to postoperative DFR calculated on plain X-rays. A secondary aim was to investigate if an association between clinical outcomes and the degree of stress shielding (SS) exists.

Methods

Fifty patients with short-stem reverse shoulder arthroplasties, preoperative CT scans, and a minimum 24-month radiographic follow-up were included in the study. At 24 months follow-up, all patients were evaluated by assessing the postoperative filling ratios, the 3D DFRs, the simple shoulder test, Constant-Murley score, and visual analogue scale through a prospectively data collection and statistically analyzed.

Results

A correlation between the 3D DFR and SS onset (rs 0.54; P < 0.001), and between postoperative DFR and SS (rs 0.71; P < 0.001), was found. The 3D DFR and the postoperative DFR were correlated (rs 0.89; P < 0.0001). SS negatively affects the postoperative range of motion, decreasing the forward elevation of the shoulder.

Conclusion

The calculation of DFR based on 3D CT planning is a good predictor of humeral SS after short-stem RTAs. The presence of SS decreases clinical outcomes by lowering the anterior elevation of the shoulder.

Level of evidence

Case series.
Chikamatsu, Mori, and the uncanny valley
Authors: MacDorman Karl F.
Published: February 2025

In Japan, robotics projects like Geminoid, modeled after Hiroshi Ishiguro, exhibit a fascination with creating human doubles. Yet, warnings against this also thread through Japanese thought, from the Edo-period playwright Chikamatsu Monzaemon (1653–1724) to the robotics professor Mori Masahiro (1927–2025). Though centuries apart, they describe the same uncanny valley phenomenon—eerie, cold, repellent feelings that arise when confronting the imperfectly human. In an interview with Hozumi Ikan, translated here, Chikamatsu presents a theory of realism exemplified through puppet theater and kabuki. He divides realism into four zones: the unreal, conceptual realism, surface realism, and the real. The unreal lacks authenticity, surface realism lacks soul, and the real lacks expressiveness. For Chikamatsu, it is conceptual realism that captivates an audience. A play's unfolding events evoke empathy and emotion through their meaning for the characters. Similarly, Mori divides realism into four zones: industrial, humanoid, and android robots, and real people. Industrial robots evoke little affinity, and androids risk appearing eerie. Though real people evoke the most affinity, androids cannot become indistinguishable from them. For Mori, only humanoid robots evoke affinity without risking uncanniness. By exploring anthropomorphism, both Chikamatsu and Mori illuminate principles for designing robots that do not unsettle but delight.
Dissolving microneedle patch loaded with adipokines-enriched adipose extract relieves atopic dermatitis in mouse via modulating immune disorders, microbiota imbalance, and skin barrier defects
Authors: Guan Jingyan , Chen Kaiqi , Lu Feng , He Yunfan
Published: February 2025

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic relapsing dermatosis that demands new therapies. This research group previously developed a physically extracted adipose-derived extracellular matrix named adipose collagen fragments (ACF), which was determined containing massive adipose matrix-bound adipokines and medicable on AD through intradermal injection. However, problems concerning the control of drug release and inevitable pain caused by injection hinder the application of ACF in clinics. Microneedle (MN) is a rapid developing technique for precise and painless transdermal drug delivery. Therefore, a dissolving methacrylated gelatin/hyaluronic acid MN patch loaded with ACF was developed in this study. The morphological characteristics, mechanical properties, penetration ability, as well as biocompatibility and degradation efficiency of ACF-MN were evaluated, and its efficacy on ovalbumin-induced AD mice was also investigated. ACF-MN exhibited excellent penetration ability, biocompatibility, degradation efficiency, and satisfying efficacy on murine AD similar with fresh-made ACF. Furthermore, RNA-Seq combining bioinformatics were performed for mechanism exploration. ACF treatment showed a comprehensive efficacy on AD via restoring inflammatory dysregulation, microbiota imbalance, and skin barrier defects. This study offered a novel MN-based ACF-bound adipokines transdermal delivery system that may serve as a promising strategy for relieving AD.
Neoaortic Dilation and Polyvalvar Dysfunction: The Coexistence of Marfan Syndrome with Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome
Authors: Rao Sruti , Komarlu Rukmini , Najm Hani K. , Hansen Brittany , Rodriguez Rene E. , Zahka Kenneth G.
Published: February 2025

We present a unique case of progressive neoaortic root and neoascending aortic dilatation, with poly-valvar regurgitation in a patient with Marfan syndrome and hypoplastic left heart syndrome palliated to Fontan procedure. This progressive dilation and valvar dysfunction necessitated a modified Bentall procedure and tricuspid valve repair. Our case highlights the impact of both a primary and secondary aortopathy complicating the Fontan procedure and the need for mechanical aortic valve replacement.
Mompreneurship and resilience: Exploring entrepreneurship for mothers of children with additional needs
Authors: Casteleijn-Osorno Regina , Hytti Ulla
Published: February 2025

By conducting a problematizing review, this study explores whether entrepreneurship could benefit mothers caring for children with additional needs (ANs). Through role conflict theory, we argue that entrepreneurship provides the time and space flexibility necessary to combine work and care roles and to experience the autonomy not available in paid employment. However, a supportive institutional framework, such as affordable child care, is needed. Based on role enrichment theory, we suggest that mothers caring for AN children possess skills, such as resilience and networking, which are beneficial to entrepreneurship. Furthermore, provided that a fair division of responsibilities exists within the household, AN children can strengthen the family unit and make it an important resource in entrepreneurship for mothers. We develop a future research agenda for mompreneurship with AN children in line with inclusive entrepreneurship.

JEL CLASSIFICATION: L26 Entrepreneurship
Prevalence and burden of possible refractory chronic cough in four European countries
Authors: Domínguez-Ortega Javier , Virchow J. Christian , Guilleminault Laurent , Antonelli Incalzi Raffaele , Beyer Andrew P. , Ke Xuehua , Ding Helen , Boggs Robert
Published: February 2025

Background

This cross-sectional study estimated prevalence and health-related burden of possible refractory or unexplained chronic cough (RCC).

Methods

This secondary analysis of survey data from France, Germany, Italy, and Spain included respondents who self–reported current chronic cough (CC; cough ≥8 weeks) and no smoking/vaping, lung cancer history, interstitial lung disease, or angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor/oral steroid use. Respondents who scored ≥4 (of 10) on a cough severity visual analog scale and did not report “a great deal” of relief from ≥1 category of eligible medications for CC-associated conditions were included in the possible RCC group; of these, respondents who received ≥2 or 3 categories of eligible medications were also included in possible RCC subgroups 1 and 2, respectively. Remaining respondents were included in the non-RCC group. Demographics/Clinical characteristics and cough/health-related burden were assessed.

Results

Of 591 respondents with CC, 165 (27.9%) were included in the possible RCC group; 56 (9.5%) and 11 (1.9%) also met criteria for possible RCC subgroups 1 and 2, respectively. The possible RCC groupversusnon-RCC group had a higher proportion of females (66.7%versus57.3%; p=0.037), lower mean EQ-5D-5L index (0.72versus0.80;p<0.001), lower mean Leicester Cough Questionnaire score (13.49versus15.95;p<0.001), and more mean healthcare visits within the past 6 months (9.87versus6.26;p<0.001).

Conclusion

Up to 27.9% of this European population with CC may have RCC and experience increased health-related burden relative to non-RCC.
COMPAIR: a comparison of directly supervised clinicversusvirtually supervised home spirometry
Authors: Pradhan Ashish , Pollington Jacqui , Saralaya Dinesh , Martin Matthew J , Hughes Rod , Arya Niki , Sanders Nick , Sharifian Hoda , Locke Katharine , Bonam Matt , Harrison Tim W
Published: February 2025

Objectives

to compare directly supervised clinic spirometry (DSCS) with virtually supervised at home spirometry (VSHS), assess the utility of AI-over-reading, and evaluate patients’ views of VSHS.

Methods

A multi-centre, prospective, 8-day study was conducted in adult patients with physician-diagnosed asthma or COPD from UK primary/secondary care. Spirometry (FEV1and FVC) was performed using the NuvoAir Air Next Bluetooth® Portable Spirometer supported by trained healthcare providers (HCPs) in clinic (Days 1 and 8) and virtually supervised at home (Days 2 and 7). Over-reading was done manually and by ArtiQ.QC (Cloud-based AI). Inter-method concordance and agreement were assessed by correlation analyses and Bland-Altman plots, respectively. Participants completed a questionnaire (Day 8) to assess their views on VSHS.

Results

68 participants were included (n=47/21 asthma/COPD). There was excellent concordance between HCP-over-read DSCS (Day 1) and VSHS (Day 2) as indicated by intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC) [95% CI] for FEV1(0.95 [0.92, 0.97]), and FVC (0.95 [0.92, 0.97]), which were slightly higher when over-read by ArtiQ-QC (FEV1: 0.98 [0.97, 0.99]; FVC: 0.96 [0.93, 0.97]). Bland-Altman plots showed good agreement between DSCS and VSHS, for both manual and ArtiQ-QC over-read assessments, with evidence of better agreement when over-read by ArtiQ-QC. More than 95% of patients considered the NuvoAir spirometer and mobile app easy-to-use and would be happy to use it in future.

Conclusions

VSHS with the NuvoAir spirometer and ArtiQ.QC over-reading offers reliable and consistent measures of lung function for research purposes and potential clinical application in a population of patients with asthma or COPD.
Recent updates of centromere proteins in hepatocellular carcinoma: a review
Authors: Yang Zhongyuan , Chen Wenjiao , Liu Yunhui , Niu Yuxin
Published: February 2025

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the fourth leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide, with approximately 800,000 deaths worldwide each year. Owing to the atypical early symptoms and characteristics of HCC, over 80% of HCC patients cannot receive curative treatment. The treatment of HCC is facing a bottleneck, and new treatment methods are urgently needed. Since the pathogenesis of HCC is not yet clear, identifying the molecular mechanisms and therapeutic targets related to it is crucial. Centromeres are considered special deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) sequences with highly repetitive sequences that are physically connected to the spindle during cell division, ensuring equal division of genetic material between daughter cells. The numerous proteins that aggregate on this sequence during cell division are called centromere proteins (CENPs). Currently, numerous studies have shown that CENPs are abnormally expressed in tumor cells and are associated with patient prognosis. The abnormal expression of CENPs is a key cause of chromosomal instability. Furthermore, chromosomal instability is a common characteristic of the majority of tumors. Chromosomal instability can lead to uncontrolled and sustained division and proliferation of malignant tumors. Therapeutic plans targeting CENPs play important roles in the treatment of HCC. For example, small ribonucleic acid (RNA) can silence CENP expression and prevent the occurrence and development of liver cancer. In recent years, studies of HCC-targeting CENPs have gradually increased but are still relatively novel, requiring further systematic elaboration. In this review, we provide a detailed introduction to the characteristics of CENPs and discuss their roles in HCC. In addition, we discuss their application prospects in future clinical practice.
Multiparameter body composition analysis on chest CT predicts clinical outcomes in resectable non-small cell lung cancer
Authors: Huang Yilong , Cun Hanxue , Mou Zhanglin , Yu Zhonghang , Du Chunmei , Luo Lan , Jiang Yuanming , Zhu Yancui , Zhang Zhenguang , Chen Xin , He Bo , Liu Zaiyi
Published: February 2025

Objectives

This study investigates the association between baseline CT body composition parameters and clinical outcomes in patients with resectable non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

Methods

Patients who underwent surgical resection for NSCLC between January 2006 and December 2017 were retrospectively enrolled in this multicenter study. Body composition metrics, including the area of skeletal muscle, intermuscular adipose tissue, subcutaneous adipose tissue, visceral adipose tissue, muscle radiodensity, and derivative parameters from five basic metrics mentioned before, were calculated based on preoperative non-contrast-enhanced chest CT images at L1 level. The Cox proportional hazards regression analysis was used to evaluate the association between body composition metrics and survival outcomes including overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS).

Results

A total of 2712 patients (mean age, 61.53 years; 1146 females) were evaluated. A total of 635 patients (23.41%) died. 465 patients (19.51%) experienced recurrence and/or distant metastasis. After multivariable adjustment, skeletal muscle index (SMI, HR = 0.86), intermuscular adipose index (IMAI, HR = 1.49), and subcutaneous adipose index (SAI, HR = 0.96) were associated with OS. Similar results were found after stratification by gender, TNM stage, and center. There was no significant association between all body composition metrics and DFS (all p > 0.05). The body composition metrics significantly enhance the model including clinicopathological factors, resulting in an improved AUC for predicting 1-year and 3-year OS, with AUC values of 0.707 and 0.733, respectively.

Conclusions

SMI, IMAI, and SAI body composition metrics have been identified as independent prognostic factors and may indicate mortality risk for resectable NSCLC patients.

Critical relevance statement

Our findings emphasize the significance of muscle mass, quality, and fat energy storage in clinical decision-making for patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Nutritional and exercise interventions targeting muscle quality and energy storage could be considered for patients with NSCLC.

Key Points

Multiparameter body composition analysis is associated with the clinical outcome in NSCLC patients.

Assessing muscle mass, quality, and adipose tissue helps predict overall survival in NSCLC.

The quantity and distribution of body composition can contribute to unraveling the adiposity paradox.

Graphical Abstract
Rheological investigations and swelling behavior of gum ghatti-cl-poly(acrylic acid) hydrogel reinforced with graphene oxide
Authors: Dave Pragnesh N. , Macwan Pradip M. , Kamaliya Bhagvan , Kumar Arvind
Published: February 2025

The primary aim of this study is to examine the rheological attributes of graphene oxide (GO)-reinforced gum ghatti-cl-poly(AA)/GO (GGAAGO) hydrogels, with the intent of improving their mechanical and thermal properties. Thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA) was employed to assess the thermal stability of the synthesized hydrogels, revealing the interaction between GO, gum ghatti, and acrylic acid. This investigation centers on the swelling behavior and rheological assessments of the hydrogels. Various experiments were conducted on nanocomposite particle gels to scrutinize the impact of graphene oxide (GO) microparticle concentration (ranging from 0 to 5 mg) on network topology, swelling, and mechanical characteristics of the gels. The rheological analysis also indicates a reduction in viscosity.

Furthermore, the rheological examination of hydrogels indicates that the storage modulus (G′) consistently surpasses the loss modulus (G″) within the linear viscoelastic zone across the entire frequency spectrum. This dominance of the storage modulus over the loss modulus suggests continuous covalent crosslinking, accounting for the solid-like and elastic nature (G′ > G″) of the hydrogels. All rheological parameters highlight commendable mechanical properties, rendering the composite hydrogel suitable for applications such as drug administration and various environmental uses.
Enhancing deep learning methods for brain metastasis detection through cross-technique annotations on SPACE MRI
Authors: Wald Tassilo , Hamm Benjamin , Holzschuh Julius C. , El Shafie Rami , Kudak Andreas , Kovacs Balint , Pflüger Irada , von Nettelbladt Bastian , Ulrich Constantin , Baumgartner Michael Anton , Vollmuth Philipp , Debus Jürgen , Maier-Hein Klaus H. , Welzel Thomas
Published: February 2025

Background

Gadolinium-enhanced “sampling perfection with application-optimized contrasts using different flip angle evolution” (SPACE) sequence allows better visualization of brain metastases (BMs) compared to “magnetization-prepared rapid acquisition gradient echo” (MPRAGE). We hypothesize that this better conspicuity leads to high-quality annotation (HAQ), enhancing deep learning (DL) algorithm detection of BMs on MPRAGE images.

Methods

Retrospective contrast-enhanced (gadobutrol 0.1 mmol/kg) SPACE and MPRAGE data of 157 patients with BM were used, either annotated on MPRAGE resulting in normal annotation quality (NAQ) or on coregistered SPACE resulting in HAQ. Multiple DL methods were developed with NAQ or HAQ using either SPACE or MRPAGE images and evaluated on their detection performance using positive predictive value (PPV), sensitivity, and F1 score and on their delineation performance using volumetric Dice similarity coefficient, PPV, and sensitivity on one internal and four additional test datasets (660 patients).

Results

The SPACE-HAQ model reached 0.978 PPV, 0.882 sensitivity, and 0.916 F1-score. The MPRAGE-HAQ reached 0.867, 0.839, and 0.840, the MPRAGE NAQ 0.964, 0.667, and 0.798, respectively (p ≥ 0.157). Relative to MPRAGE-NAQ, the MPRAGE-HAQ F1-score detection increased on all additional test datasets by 2.5–9.6 points (p < 0.016) and sensitivity improved on three datasets by 4.6–8.5 points (p < 0.001). Moreover, volumetric instance sensitivity improved by 3.6–7.6 points (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

HAQ improves DL methods without specialized imaging during application time. HAQ alone achieves about 40% of the performance improvements seen with SPACE images as input, allowing for fast and accurate, fully automated detection of small (< 1 cm) BMs.

Relevance statement

Training with higher-quality annotations, created using the SPACE sequence, improves the detection and delineation sensitivity of DL methods for the detection of brain metastases (BMs)on MPRAGE images. This MRI cross-technique transfer learning is a promising way to increase diagnostic performance.

Key Points

Delineating small BMs on SPACE MRI sequence results in higher quality annotations than on MPRAGE sequence due to enhanced conspicuity.

Leveraging cross-technique ground truth annotations during training improved the accuracy of DL models in detecting and segmenting BMs.

Cross-technique annotation may enhance DL models by integrating benefits from specialized, time-intensive MRI sequences while not relying on them.

Further validation in prospective studies is needed.

Graphical Abstract
AN ACCURATE AND EFFICIENT NUMERICAL METHOD FOR 2.5-D TIME-DOMAIN VISCOACOUSTIC AND VISCOELASTIC WAVE MODELING
Authors: Won Moosoo , Zhou Bing , Liu Xu , Zemerly Mohamed Jamal , Al-Khaleel Mohammad , Riahi Mohamed Kamel
Published: February 2025

Accurately modeling seismic wave propagation in complex subsurface geological structures is crucial for understanding their properties. However, 3-D seismic wave modeling can be computationally demanding, requiring a significant amount of computer memory and runtime. To address this issue, a more efficient and accurate approach known as 2.5-D modeling can be used when the subsurface geological structure is 2-D. We developed a new numerical method for 2.5-D time-domain viscoelastic wave modeling, characterized by the subdomain Chebyshev differentiation for accurate spatial derivatives, a Taylor-series recursive approach for accurate computations of temporal convolutions, a novel transform of the complex-domain computations into real-domain implementation, and fully parallel computing for high computational efficiency. Comparing our results with 3-D analytical and numerical reference solutions, we demonstrate that the proposed method offers satisfactory accuracies, excellent computational efficiencies, and a powerful capability of modeling 3-D wavefields in complex 2-D heterogeneous viscoacoustic and viscoelastic geological models. Overall, our findings provide a robust and efficient approach for modeling seismic wave propagation in complex 2-D subsurface geological structures.
Stimulation of teleost pallium elicits an integrated feeding kinematic pattern important for prey capture
Authors: Saitoh Kazuya
Published: February 2025

The precise control of jaw movements during vertebrate predatory behaviour is crucial for successful prey capture. In mammals, the movement patterns associated with orofacial movements, have been investigated via long-lasting intracortical microstimulation, and revealed a cortical contribution of integrated jaw movements to prey capture. However, little is known regarding the role of the pallium, a homologue of the mammalian cortex, in the control of jaw movements in anamniotes, such as fish and amphibians. Here, we therefore investigated the pallial involvement in the orobranchial movements using Odontobutis obscura, a bottom-dwelling fish, as a case study. Electrical microstimulation of the pallial surface elicited an integrated feeding motor program with a jaw opening‒closure sequence combined with a closure of the operculums (gills). We could also evoke a sustained jaw closure. Furthermore, the effective stimulation sites for the two kinematic patterns were found to be primarily distributed in the caudomedial part of the dorsal pallium. We also observed associations between opercular movements and the two kinematic patterns, and recorded the prey capture composed of several distinct phases, approach, fixation, snapping and withdrawing backwards. In the snapping, jaw opening and closure was combined with gill movements. These findings suggest evolutionary continuity in the neural mechanisms underlying predatory behaviours across vertebrates, from teleosts to mammals.
Metabolomic signatures associated with cold adaptation and seasonal acclimation of Drosophila: profiling of 43 species
Authors: Moos Martin , Overgaard Johannes , Hůla Petr , Byrge Clara Garfiel , Šmilauer Petr , Nedvěd Oldřich , Koštál Vladimír
Published: February 2025

Cold tolerance is a key determinant of poleward colonization in insects. However, the physiological basis underlying interspecific differences in cold tolerance is not fully understood. Here, we analyzed cold tolerance and metabolomic profiles in warm- and cold-acclimated phenotypes of 43 Drosophila species representing a latitudinal gradient from the tropics to the boreal zone. We found a strong positive correlation between cold tolerance and climatic variables associated with habitat seasonality and temperature. Including the effects of cold acclimation, we found most species to have similar 'safety margins', measured as the difference between the average environmental temperature and the lower lethal temperature. Searching for metabolomic signatures of cold tolerance, we found that the warm-acclimated flies of cold-hardy species had moderately but significantly higher constitutive signals of putative cryoprotectants such as trehalose, glucose, glycerol, and mannitol/sorbitol. Cold acclimation (and the transition to winter dormant phenotype) resulted in a strong accumulation of myo-inositol, which occurred only in species of the virilis group. Other temperate and boreal species either showed only moderate, idiosyncratic accumulations of sugars/polyols and free amino acids, or did not accumulate any 'classical' cryoprotectant at all. Thus, our results suggest that the colonization of boreal regions by Drosophila does not necessarily depend on the seasonal accumulation of classical cryoprotectants. In contrast, virtually all cold-acclimated species showed a significant increase in products of phospholipid catabolism, suggesting that remodeling of biological membranes is a clear and ubiquitous signature of cold acclimation in Drosophila.
The effect of surface treatments on the bond strength of polyetheretherketone posts: a systematic review protocol
Authors: Boukhris Hanen , Ben Hadj Khalifa Aymen , Hajjami Hayet , Boudegga Ben Youssef Souha
Published: February 2025

Abstract Background Polyetheretherketone (PEEK) is widely used in the biomedical field due to its outstanding biological and mechanical properties. Originally employed as a temporary abutment in implantology, recent research has expanded its indications for more definitive applications, such as frameworks and dental post and core. This shift requires a thorough assessment of PEEK’s adhesion and mechanical characteristics. However, PEEK’s inert properties and intricate chemistry create difficulties in surface treatment, resulting in reduced surface energy and inadequate adhesion. Various physical and chemical modification techniques, including acid etching (e.g., 98% sulfuric acid), sandblasting with alumina oxide (Al₂O₃), plasma treatment, laser irradiation, silanization, and air abrasion with silica-coated particles, have been proposed to enhance PEEK’s bonding performance. Despite its numerous clinical trials, standardized protocols remain lacking. This systematic review aims to assess the impact of surface treatments on the bonding performance of PEEK posts. Methods A detailed search of the literature will be conducted across several databases including PubMed, Scopus and clinical trial registries. Additional databases such as Cochrane Central, EMBASE, Web of Science and EBSCO will also be included. The search strategy will target controlled randomized studies and non-randomized clinical trials evaluating the impact of surface treatments on PEEK post adhesion strength. The Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS) will be used to assess bias in non-randomized studies, while the Cochrane Risk of Bias (ROB II) tool will be employed for evaluating randomized controlled trials. Data extraction will focus on study design, treatment methods, outcomes and results. This systematic review protocol will adhere to the guidelines for systematic reviews outlined in the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA). Discussion The discussion will explore the implications of findings on clinical practice, highlighting the importance of enhancing PEEK’s bioactivity and surface energy to improve bonding efficacy in dental procedures. Moreover, it will suggest areas for future research to advance dental materials science, aiming to optimize the utilization of PEEK in dental applications Systematic review registration PROSPERO: CRD42024529783 (Registered on 08/04/2024).
An Ecofeminist Analysis of Aminatta Forna’s Ancestor Stones
Authors: Michael  Gebreyohannes Nigus , Ambachew Abiye Daniel
Published: February 2025

Background This article examines Aminatta Forna’s Ancestor Stones from an ecofeminist point of view. Aminatta has four novels, and Ancestor Stones is one novel that addresses various significant themes of ecofeminism. Methods Textual analysis was applied as a method to investigate the extracted texts from the novel. This approach enabled an in depth examination of the novel’s themes and characters representations. Results The analysis of the novel portrays the deep interconnection between women and the natural environment by representing women as expert gardeners, which shows their deep indigenous knowledge. Beyond becoming daily consumption, these gardens convey history, which passes from generation to generation. This signifies women’s great accomplishment at gardening and cultivating their land and their intimacy with the natural environment in Africa. The novel also portrays the substantial relationship between women and rivers, forests, and other elements of the natural environment and depicts how seriously women take the degradation of nature and its impact. Similarly, the novel portrays the patriarchal exploitation of women, the natural environment, and the indigenous people at large. It reveals the exploitation and suppression that of women under polygamous marriage. It also recounts colonialism and its chained impact on women, nature and the indigenous people. The novel shows the patriarchal domination and its multifaceted impacts on marriage, family and the society at large. Conclusions In short, the novel acknowledges and values the knowledge that African women have about gardening, natural conservation, and agriculture. The novel also shows the culture, history and practice of African women and the impact of patriarchal domination they experience in many ways. Besides, it urges the active inclusion of women in environmental decision making, emphasizing their crucial role in addressing ecological crisis and the roles women play in democratization of their nation and stability of their society.
Nieprawidłowości związane z zawarciem umowy o realizację zamówienia publicznego a dyscyplina finansów publicznych
Authors: Taraszkiewicz Magdalena
Published: February 2025

Zamówienia publiczne swym zakresem obejmują procesy związane z wydatkowaniem środków publicznych. Zwieńczeniem postępowania o udzielenie zamówienia publicznego winno być zawarcie umowy pomiędzy zamawiającym a wykonawcą dającym rękojmię prawidłowego wykonania zamówienia publicznego. Zamawiający nie ma jednak dobrowolności w kształtowaniu treści umowy, bowiem cywilistyczna zasada swobody umów z art. 3531 Kodeksu cywilnego w przypadku zamówień publicznych podlega ograniczeniom wynikającym z Prawa zamówień publicznych. Celem niniejszego opracowania jest udzielenie odpowiedzi na następujące pytanie: jakie nieprawidłowości związane z zawarciem umowy w sprawie zamówienia publicznego stanowić mogą czyn naruszający dyscyplinę finansów publicznych? Niniejszy artykuł opracowano z wykorzystaniem niereaktywnej metody badawczej dogmatyczno-prawnej.
Rada Fiskalna a Wieloletni Plan Finansowy Państwa na lata 2024–2027
Authors: Wantoch-Rekowski Jacek
Published: February 2025

Opracowanie zawiera analizy dotyczące informacji na temat Rady Fiskalnej zawartych w Wieloletnim Planie Finansowym Państwa na lata 2024–2027. Autor wskazuje na zakres tych informacji i ich znaczenie prawne. Z artykuły wynika, że charakter prawny Wieloletniego Planu Finansowego Państwa skutkuje tym, że ustawodawca nie jest nim związany.
Zadania Polskiej Agencji Antydopingowej
Authors: Zawada Michał
Published: February 2025

Zgodnie z ustawą z dnia 21 kwietnia 2017 r. o zwalczaniu dopingu w sporcie utworzono Polską Agencję Antydopingową (w skrócie POLADA), aby przede wszystkim przeciwdziałała stosowaniu dopingu przez polskich sportowców. W artykule zostały przedstawione, na podstawie wspomnianej ustawy i innych aktów prawnych oraz literatury, cele funkcjonowania Agencji, a także jej zadania przypisane w ustawie oraz zakres działania. Stanowiło to jednocześnie cel niniejszej pracy. Oprócz tego podjęta została próba uzyskania odpowiedzi na pytanie: czy obowiązujące regulacje pozwalają na skuteczne wykrywanie i przeciwdziałanie dopingowi w sporcie wyczynowym oraz czy działania Polskiej Agencji Antydopingowej są w tym zakresie wystarczające? Na koniec zostaną również porównane rozwiązania prawne dotyczące organizacji podmiotów zwalczających doping w sporcie w innych krajach z polskim systemem prawnym. Zastosowano w opracowaniu metodę dogmatyczno-prawną oraz prawnoporównawczą.
Hidden in Plain Sight: An Appreciative Inquiry into Invisible Disabilities in the Workplace
Authors: Elliott Lisa R
Published: February 2025

This article examines the intersection of invisible disabilities and Appreciative Inquiry in the workplace, advocating for a shift from deficit-based discussions to strengths-oriented dialogue. Based on personal experiences as someone managing invisible disabilities and an AI scholar-practitioner, it describes an online seminar, ‘Hidden in Plain Sight’, which engaged diverse stakeholders in co-creating supportive work cultures. The seminar envisioned inclusive practices that embrace the unique strengths of individuals with invisible disabilities, promoting equity in the workplace.
An Appreciative Inquiry Lens to Training Transfer with Teachers
Authors: Strahan Carol
Published: February 2025

This article explores the long-term impact of Appreciative Inquiry training, focusing on whether training transfer persisted over time. Interviews with teachers revealed that Appreciative Inquiry became embedded in their school culture, influencing policies, staff relationships and communication. The SOAR framework provided rich insights into the teachers’ strengths, opportunities and aspirations. This study advocates for increased reflective opportunities in education, providing time for individuals to consider their personal growth and achievements.
ARQUITECTURA Y ORNATO EN LAS ESCALERAS MONUMENTALES DE SEVILLA. EL LEÓN COMO RECURSO DE IMAGEN Y SIMBOLOGÍA.
Authors: Gandarillas Cordero Adolfo
Published: February 2025

Este trabajo pretende ser una aproximación al ornato en la arquitectura
hispalense. Para ello nos hemos centrado en un elemento constructivo por el que
la historiografía del arte suele pasar de puntillas, la escalera.
Siempre presente en la edificación de varias alturas, se convirtió durante la edad
moderna en uno de los espacios con más carga simbólica y representatividad de la
edilicia civil y religiosa. Se realizará un acercamiento a su definición y clasificación,
para incidir en sus elementos constructivos susceptibles de ornamentación y
aportar ejemplos singulares de escaleras sevillanas. Para finalizar, se analizará la
imagen del león como recurso ornamental especialmente ligado a las escaleras
rescatando casos de utilización en la ciudad de Sevilla.
Let Us Not Speak of Them, but Look and Pass? Organizational Responses to Online Reviews
Authors: Favaron Saverio Dave , Di Stefano Giada
Published: February 2025

In a world where five stars have become the standard for evaluating many transactions, and consumers turn to the crowd for guidance when making a wide variety of choices, organizations cannot dismiss online reviews as inconsequential. And while we know a lot about how organizations respond to reviews online, there has been a lack of systematic evidence showing how organizations behave in response to online feedback once their screens are turned off. This paper leverages a novel combination of insights from a lab-in-the-field experiment, an archival study, and two rounds of qualitative interviews in the French restaurant industry to examine online and offline responses to reviewer feedback. We identify characteristics of the review, the restaurant, and the respondent that influenced when restaurants in our sample were more likely to align their actions online and offline, and when they were more likely to decouple them—i.e., posting an online response promising to take corrective action while having no intention to change how the restaurant operates “in real life”. We conclude by speculating on potential mechanisms behind our respondents’ reactions, and discussing our contribution to literature on producer reactivity and the symbolic management of change.
On Resource Complementarity Among Startups, Accelerators, and Financial Investors: a Large-scale Analysis of Sorting and Value Creation
Authors: Santamaria Simone , Breschi Stefano
Published: February 2025

We propose a theoretical framework and provide empirical evidence on how resource complementarity or substitutability between entrepreneurs and seed investors drives selection and value creation in the context of high-tech startups. Specifically, we argue that seed investors specialized in training programs - startup accelerators - are the ideal match for entrepreneurial teams equipped with strong technological competencies but lacking business knowledge. On the other hand, when entrepreneurs with extensive business knowledge pair up with accelerators, the value created is typically less. Combining information from Crunchbase and LinkedIn, we provide robust empirical evidence based on the assortative matching of startups and investors and the ex-post analysis of joint value creation.
Gravity as a vector of superfluid space and universe expansion
Authors: Sorli Amrit
Published: February 2025

The curvature of space-time is replaced by the variable energy density of the timeinvariant
superfluid space, where the variable energy density of space carries
gravity. The gravity vector points in the direction from a higher energy density to a
lower energy density. When light moves in the direction of the gravity vector, it
causes a blue shift. When light moves in the opposite direction, it causes a redshift.
The Doppler effect in an expanding space has not been experimentally confirmed.
The cosmological redshift originates from the gravitational redshift. Universal
space does not expand.
Melatonin alleviates senile osteoporosis by regulating autophagy and enhancing fracture healing in aged mice
Authors: Zhang Denghui , Zhu Tianer , Bai Jingyao , Chen Chunchun , Wen Junru , Zhou Yi , Guan Xiaoxu
Published: February 2025

Aims

In our previous research, we have found that melatonin (MEL) affects the osteoporotic process. By balancing bone remoulding, autophagy is involved in age-related bone loss. However, as a regulator of autophagy, whether MEL influences senile osteoporosis via regulating autophagy remains unclear.

Methods

Cellular, radiological, and histopathological evaluations were performed on 36 16-month-old male C57BL6/L mice or aged bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells. A MEL-gelatin methacrylamide system was constructed to aid osteoporotic fracture healing.

Results

In this study, we found that bone loss, low level of MEL, and decreased autophagy coexisted in aged C57BL6/L mice. A physiological (low, 10 nM but not 100 nM) concentration of MEL restored bone loss, transformed the cytokine framework, and increased the autophagic level in aged mice, whereas inhibition of autophagy unfavourably reduced the positive effects of MEL on bone mass. The autophagy-conducted increased osteogenic lineage commitment and extracellular matrix mineralization, but not matrix synthesis of aged bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells, was responsible for MEL anabolic effects on bone. PIK3C-AKT-MTOR signal was tested to be a main pathway that is involved in MEL-induced autophagy.

Conclusion

Our data suggest that the application of MEL can restore degenerative osteogenesis of aged bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells, and has the potential to regain bone mass in aged mice through activating autophagy via the PIK3C-AKT-MTOR pathway. MEL therefore may serve as a potential clinical therapy to treat senile osteoporosis.

Cite this article: Bone Joint Res 2025;14(2):97–110.
Simultaneous Bilateral Total Knee Replacement for Autofusion Secondary to Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis: A Case Report
Authors:   Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, Richmond, VA, USA,, Villa Morgan K , Robles Rafael ,   Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, Richmond, VA, USA,, Johnson Maya ,   Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA., Lemons Wesley ,   Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA., Marano Geoffrey ,   Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA., Golladay Gregory J ,   Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA.
Published: February 2025

Introduction: Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) poses lifelong challenges due to chronic inflammation that can lead to permanent deformities like autofusion, severely affecting quality of life.

Case Report: In this case, a 31-year-old female with a 21-year history of bilateral knee pain secondary to JIA faced a unique challenge: bilateral knee autofusion. Radiographs revealed severe bilateral contractures, erosive changes, and autofusion, prompting the decision for simultaneous total knee arthroplasties (TKAs). Evaluation at 1-year postoperatively showed significant improvements in function, pain, and activities of daily living.

Conclusion: This case provides insight into outcomes of simultaneous TKAs in the context of autofusion, highlighting the procedure’s viability in resolving debilitating knee conditions, even in the presence of complex factors such as JIA.

Keywords: Simultaneous total knee arthroplasties, autofusion, juvenile idiopathic arthritis.
Post Nullosmemorande : Martial’s Tristia , Rewriting Ovid, and Allusions of Anonymity in the Early Epigrams
Authors: Sutton David
Published: February 2025

Abstract: This article explores Martial’s near-verbatim quotation of Ovid Tr . 1.5 in epigram 1.15. Martial’s introduction of his friend’s name into the setting of a poem where one of the principal stylistic features is anonymity represents a bold intervention which has implications for understanding the metapoetic posture of Martial’s early books. Abstract: Cet article explore la citation presque verbatim des Tristia d’Ovide (1.5) que l’on trouve dans l’épigramme 1.15 de Martial. L’introduction par Martial du nom de son ami Julius dans la trame d’un poème où l’anonymat est un trait stylistique essentiel représente une intervention audacieuse qui n’est pas sans incidence sur notre compréhension de la posture métapoétique des premiers livres de Martial.
Asclepian Social Distancing: A Reinterpretation of Aelius Aristides Oration 47.23
Authors: Gavin Tom
Published: February 2025

Abstract: This note offers a reinterpretation of Aelius Aristides’ Oration 47.23, during which the sophist refuses to kiss the Roman emperor. The author argues that the ancient association between social kissing and disease may offer the best context for understanding the episode. Abstract: Cette note propose une réinterprétation du Discours 47.23 d’Ælius Aristide, dans lequel le sophiste refuse d’embrasser l’empereur romain. L’auteur soutient que cet épisode peut être mieux compris si l’on replace l’épisode dans son contexte historique, compte tenu du fait que les baisers sociaux étaient associés avec la maladie.
Standing Before God in the Hebrew Bible: Rhetorically Centering Individuals’ Petitions at the Dedication of the Temple (1 Kgs 8)
Authors: Charney Davida H.
Published: February 2025

Abstract: The Hebrew Bible accords great moral agency to the collective “children of Israel.” Its discourse focuses as much on the attitudes, words and actions of the nation as on those of kings, priests, or prophets, let alone ordinary individuals. Yet key texts emphasize that God’s covenant is forged with individuals. The relative priorities of individuals vs. the nation are nowhere stated explicitly. However, a remarkable text, King Solomon’s dedicatory address for the Jerusalem Temple in 1 Kgs 8, suggests that they have equal claim on God’s attention. Solomon authorizes seven types of petitions, half for individuals and half for the nation. The importance of individuals’ petitions is heightened through four distinctive rhetorical strategies—sequence, amplitude, narrative time, and billing. Implications are sketched for understanding the Hebrew Bible’s conception of identity, agency, and moral character.