bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Environmental Historical Geographies
Authors: Hannaford Matthew J.
Published: January 2025

Environmental historical geography is a diverse, dynamic and active subfield with close connections to environmental history. Here, I examine developments in three overarching and overlapping themes within the subfield: environmental reconstruction, environmental knowledges and discourses, and environmental impacts and interventions. For each area, I highlight recent approaches to, and applications of, environmental historical geography. I also draw attention to several promising areas of research where environmental historical geography can build on its existing strengths and continue reinvigorating understanding of environment‐society relations. These include contextualising environmental knowledge and data production amidst advances in big data and AI; illuminating the multi‐directional interactions between environmental change, knowledges, and materialities; revealing the entangled physical and intellectual legacies of imperial and colonial projects; and enhancing comparative research.
Grinding process, surface characteristics, and machining performance of α/β‐SiAlON ceramic double‐circular‐arc end mill
Authors: Guo Fuzhou , Yin Zengbin , Hong Dongbo , Wang Boxiang , Yuan Juntang
Published: January 2025

SiAlON ceramics are widely used for high‐speed and high‐efficiency machining of superalloys due to their excellent heat resistance. However, their inherent brittleness complicates the grinding process, often leading to edge chipping and impacting machining performance. In this study, a novel spark plasma sintered α/β‐SiAlON ceramic double‐circular‐arc end mill was designed, and a specialized grinding process was developed to address its unique geometrical features. The grinding process was systematically divided into five key steps: helix flute, Y‐direction flank, chip space, secondary flank, and primary flank. Analysis of the grinding principle and surface characterization showed good ground surface quality due to the refined process and gentle grinding parameters, but significant microdefects were still observed. Material flaking, grain pull‐out, brittle fracture, and crack propagation are key mechanisms in the material removal process. Machining tests demonstrated a reliable cutting performance of the developed end mill when machining Inconel 718, although tool failure ultimately occurred due to flank notch wear and rake face chipping. This study enhances the understanding of the fabrication and performance of SiAlON ceramic end mills and offers valuable insights for future developments in the field.
Clinicopathologic and Molecular Characterization of NUP98‐Rearranged Acute Leukemias
Authors: Sajjan Sujata , Oertling Estelle E. , Fuda Franklin , Gagan Jeffrey , Koduru Prasad , Garcia Rolando , Kwon Adelaide , Lin Elisa , Cantu Miguel , Wilson Kathleen , Weinberg Olga K. , Chen Mingyi , Jaso Jesse Manuel , Slone Tamra L. , Truscott Jamie , Thiebaud Julio Alvarenga , Chung Stephen , Madanat Yazan F. , Chen Weina
Published: January 2025

Introduction

NUP98 rearrangements are rare in acute leukemias and portend a poor prognosis.

Methods

This study explored clinicopathologic and molecular features of five patients with NUP98 rearranged (NUP98‐r) acute leukemias, including three females and two males with a median age of 34 years.

Results

NUP98 fusion partners were associated with distinctive leukemia characteristics and biology. Three patients had NUP98::NSD1‐r acute myeloid leukemia (AML, all cytogenetically cryptic and with concomitant FLT3‐ITD) and unfavorable prognoses (in two patients), one patient had NUP98::HOXA9‐r AML with morphologic and immunophenotypic features resembling acute promyelocytic leukemia, and lastly, one patient had previously underreported NUP98::MLLT1‐r B/T mixed phenotype acute leukemia. After a median follow‐up of 24.7 months, median overall survival was 30 months and three of five patients (60%) remained in complete remission at the last follow‐up.

Conclusion

Our study expands the clinical and molecular spectrum of NUP98‐r acute leukemias and recommends FISH testing for NUP98 rearrangement on those leukemia cases without recurrent gene rearrangements and/or normal karyotype followed by molecular confirmation to improve timely diagnosis and clinical management.
A Bayesian Interpretation of CABANA and Other Randomized Controlled Trials for Catheter Ablation in Patients With Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Nogueira Alleh , Felix Nicole , Kalil Felipe , Tramujas Lucas , Godoi Amanda , Miyawaki Isabele A. , Bellavia Andrea , Moura Filipe A. , Cardoso Rhanderson , d'Avila André , Fernandes Gilson C.
Published: January 2025

Background

Catheter ablation improves symptoms and quality of life in atrial fibrillation patients, but its effect on adverse cardiovascular outcomes and mortality remains uncertain. Bayesian analysis of randomized controlled trials offers a deeper understanding of treatment effects beyond conventional p‐value thresholds.

Methods

We conducted a post hoc Bayesian reanalysis of CABANA and four similar trials to estimate catheter ablation's effect on cardiovascular and survival outcomes. Using publicly available, trial‐level data, we fitted ordinal Bayesian regression models to assess the impact of catheter ablation on the primary composite outcome—comprising all‐cause mortality, stroke with disability, serious bleeding, and cardiac arrest—as well as mortality alone. We considered two sets of prior distributions: (1) a noninformative prior, where all effect sizes are equally probable and inference is primarily based on trial data, and (2) a treatment effect distribution derived from four trials using a random effects model.

Results

In this analysis, refined probability distributions for treatment effects were obtained by integrating data from CABANA with diverse priors through Bayes' theorem, offering a novel, nuanced probabilistic understanding of the potential impact of ablation compared with medical therapy on cardiovascular outcomes and all‐cause mortality. In contrast to CABANA's original frequentist estimates, which were inconclusive, Bayesian analyses indicated probabilities of 82.6% and 81.1% that ablation is superior in reducing adverse cardiovascular outcomes and mortality, respectively. Incorporating results from four other similar trials increased the probability of improved effects on mortality to 86.0%.

Conclusions

Bayesian analysis augmented the interpretation of previously inconclusive findings, suggesting a clinically relevant probability of benefit from catheter ablation compared to medical therapy in a broad population with atrial fibrillation.
RIT1 Promotes the Proliferation of Gliomas Through the Regulation of the PI3K/AKT/c‐Myc Signalling Pathway
Authors: Liu Zhen , Jiang Hao‐dong , Kan Hao‐yuan , Zhang Li , Rao Yu‐xin , Jiang Xiao‐bing , Li Ming‐hui , Wang Qi
Published: January 2025

Recently, RIT1 has been implicated in a range of neurological disorders; however, its precise function in glioma pathogenesis is not yet well‐defined. This study employed quantitative reverse transcription PCR (qRT‐PCR), Western blotting (WB), immunohistochemistry (IHC) and additional methodologies to assess RIT1 expression levels in glioma tissues. Furthermore, the study investigated its influence on glioma progression through a series of functional experiments. Animal models were also utilised to elucidate the mechanistic role of RIT1, with a particular focus on its effects on the PI3K/AKT signalling pathway. Research findings showcased that RIT1 is significantly overexpressed in gliomas and exhibits a strong correlation with tumour grade and unfavourable clinical outcomes. Furthermore, RIT1 serves as an independent prognostic marker of poor prognosis. Functional assays demonstrate that RIT1 facilitates the aggressiveness of glioma cells by activating the PI3K/AKT signalling. Additionally, it promotes tumour proliferation by inhibiting apoptosis and accelerating cell cycle progression. This study demonstrates that RIT1 significantly contributes to the aggressive phenotype and unfavourable prognosis of glioma, indicating its ability as a therapeutic target for glioma treatment.
Neighborhood opportunity and residential instability: associations with mental health in middle childhood
Authors: Putnick Diane L. , Tyris Jordan , McAdam Jordan , Ghassabian Akhgar , Mendola Pauline , Sundaram Rajeshwari , Yeung Edwina
Published: January 2025

Background

Neighborhood quality may contribute to child mental health, but families with young children often move, and residential instability has also been tied to adverse mental health. This study's primary goal was to disentangle the effects of neighborhood quality from those of residential instability on mental health in middle childhood.

Methods

1,946 children from 1,652 families in the Upstate KIDS cohort from New York state, US, were followed prospectively from birth to age 10. Residential addresses were linked at the census tract level to the Child Opportunity Index 2.0, a multidimensional indicator of neighborhood quality. The number of different addresses reported from birth to age 10 was counted to indicate residential instability, and the change in COI quintile indicated social mobility. Parents completed three assessments of attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder, problematic behavior, and internalizing psychopathology symptoms at ages 7, 8, and 10. Child and family covariates were selected a priori to adjust sample characteristics, increase estimate precision, and account for potential confounding.

Results

In unadjusted models, higher neighborhood quality at birth was associated with fewer psychopathology symptoms in middle childhood, but associations were largely mediated by residential instability. In adjusted models, residential instability was associated with more psychopathology symptoms, even accounting for social mobility. Neighborhood quality at birth had indirect effects on child mental health symptoms through residential instability.

Conclusions

Children born into lower‐quality neighborhoods moved more, and moving more was associated with higher psychopathology symptoms. Findings were similar across different timings of residential moves, for girls and boys, and for children who did not experience a major life event. Additional research is needed to better understand which aspects of moving are most disruptive to young children.
Plastics in dermatology: A review and solutions
Authors: Tan Eugene , Saha Susanne , Niebel Dennis
Published: January 2025

Hazards to human and planetary health are present at every stage of the plastic life cycle, yet plastic production is projected to triple by 2060. This review focuses on three key areas: the life cycle of plastic, the impact of microplastics and their associated chemicals, along with recommendations to reduce plastic use. In dermatology, micro‐ and nanoplastics are especially problematic as they are present in over 90% of personal care products. They have been detected in utero, absorbed through the skin and found in the lungs and gastrointestinal tract. Numerous in vitro and animal studies have substantiated the negative impact of micro‐ and nanoplastics but gaps remain with regards to their effect on human health. In spite of this limitation, we review the evidence to date and offer evidence‐based recommendations which can reduce plastic production, enhance health outcomes and promote environmental justice.
When A Political Sinner Does A Good Deed: The Role of Government Officials' Stigma Anxiety in Granting Political Access
Authors: Chang Yuyuan , Li Shuping
Published: January 2025

This study examines when firms with damaged political reputations – political officials' negative perceptions of a firm's capabilities and character – attempt to restore their reputations and regain political access through an essential form of Corporate Political Activities (CPA), Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). We focus on the officials' incentives and introduce the concept of stigma anxiety, which refers to officials' concerns about being associated with reputationally damaged firms. Analysing 3531 Chinese firms from 2012 to 2020 in the context of China's anticorruption campaigns, we find that officials are less likely to grant political access to firms with damaged political reputations. However, CSR activities may mitigate these adverse effects. The effectiveness of CSR activities in regaining political access is further influenced by officials' stigma anxiety, shaped by three factors: controllability (the extent to which a stigmatized actor is perceived as responsible for the stigma), disruptiveness (the degree to which stigma is perceived as a threat to others), and visibility (the extent to which a stigma event stands out and attracts sustained attention). Our findings contribute to research on CPA, stigma, and CSR.
LIMA1 Is a Prognostic Senescence‐Inhibitory Gene in Head and Neck Squamous Carcinoma
Authors: You Yuanhe , Du Zhong , Tian Zhuowei , Yu Fan , Li Shunshun , He Jie , Xiao Meng , Wang Yanan
Published: January 2025

Background

This study aimed to investigate potential cellular senescence inhibitory genes (CSIGs) and discover novel therapeutic targets in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma.

Methods

Dysregulated CSIGs were identified based on The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and the Human Aging Genomic Resources (HAGR) database. Prognostic value and immune infiltration were assessed through bioinformatic analysis. Cell proliferation was evaluated using CCK‐8, Edu assay, and colony formation assays in vitro. Western blotting and real‐time PCR were used to evaluate LIMA1 expression. Clinical validation of LIMA1 expression was performed in our validated cohort.

Results

In this study, differential analysis and functional enrichment analysis identified 26 differentially expressed senescence inhibitory genes. Among them, LIMA1 was found to be an independent prognostic marker and associated immune infiltration. Knockdown of LIMA1 inhibited HNSCC cell growth and increased the expression of senescence markers. Further experiments revealed that LIMA1 expression was partially regulated by the IL6/STAT3 signaling pathway. Immunohistochemistry further validated the clinical significance of LIMA1 expression and its association with IL6 and CD8+ T cells in our hospital's HNSCC tissues.

Conclusion

LIMA1 is a prognostic senescence‐inhibitory gene in HNSCC. The IL6/STAT3/LIMA1 axis represents a novel molecular mechanism underlying cellular senescence resistance in HNSCC.
An Essential Component of Any Policy Toolkit to Address Federal Budget Deficits: Tax Expenditure Reform
Authors: Granof Michael , Luby Martin J. , Zachary Matthew
Published: January 2025

The last half‐century has been characterized by ongoing federal deficits as well as recurring government shutdowns, which have only accelerated in the last decade. We contend that Congress has been unable to exercise adequate control over both annual revenues and expenditures not merely due to political partisanship but because of something no less basic: inadequate budgetary and fiscal processes. One budgetary element important to the federal government's fiscal system involves tax expenditures. As a reform to move closer to budgetary balance, we propose in this commentary that Congress should severely scale‐back, recharacterize, and regularly review “tax‐expenditures.”
A Latent Profile Analysis of Relational Maintenance Behaviors in Romantic Relationships
Authors: Pett Rudy C. , Krawietz Colton E.
Published: January 2025

Existing research reflects extensive knowledge of how individuals enact relational maintenance (RM) in close relationships and the relational antecedents, as well as outcomes, of RM behaviors. Although traditional approaches often assess the frequencies of five core RM behaviors (e.g., openness, assurances, positivity, social networks, and sharing tasks), little attention has been directed toward how individuals may enact RM behaviors relative to others. The current studies use latent profile analysis (LPA) to examine RM behaviors in romantic relationships. In Study 1 (N = 295), LPA identified two profiles of RM behaviors: below‐average maintainers (n = 78) and above‐average maintainers (n = 217). In Study 2 (N = 1000), LPA identified three profiles of RM behaviors: below‐average maintainers (n = 103), average maintainers (n = 420), and above‐average maintainers (n = 477). Using interdependence theory, profiles were considered in their associations with relational outcomes. Study 1 results demonstrate that relational satisfaction, commitment, and partner facilitation varied by profile membership. Study 2 findings illustrate that relational satisfaction, commitment, partner interference, partner facilitation, and perceived partner commitment varied by profile membership. The results are discussed in terms of their contributions to existing RM research, as well as the use of LPA in this context.
Sparse loudspeaker array design for wideband frequency-invariant beamforming with multiple targets
Authors: Pan Keyu , Chen Simiao , Han Yiming , Feng Xuelei , Shen Yong
Published: January 2025

Beamforming technology using loudspeaker arrays is widely used in sound applications, but current sparse array design methods focus on optimizing a single beam for a single target direction, limiting their applicability to multi-channel sound systems. This paper presents a design method for sparse loudspeaker line arrays to generate wideband frequency-invariant beams in multiple target directions. A model based on tapped delay lines is developed and a two-stage design approach is proposed. In the first stage, a compressive sensing framework combined with an extended fast iterative shrinkage-thresholding algorithm is employed to determine the optimal locations of active drivers. In the second stage, the excitations of the active drivers are calculated using the least squares method. Numerical simulations show a 32.3% reduction in the number of drivers compared to that of traditional uniform linear loudspeaker arrays while maintaining frequency-invariant properties. The proposed algorithm exhibits considerable computational efficiency, rendering it highly suitable for addressing large-scale optimization problems and substantially reducing the design time. This design method is applicable to sound projection scenarios and can be extended to other multi-channel beamforming systems to achieve reliable beam performance and reduce system costs.
The unique structure of the highly conserved PPLP region in HIV-1 Vif is critical for the formation of APOBEC3 recognition interfaces
Authors: Iwatani Yasumasa , Matsuoka Kazuhiro , Ode Hirotaka , Kubota Mai , Nakata Yoshihiro , Setoyama Yuka , Kojima Kanako , Imahashi Mayumi , Yokomaku Yoshiyuki
Published: January 2025

The human cellular cytidine deaminases APOBEC3s (A3s) inhibit virion infectivity factor (Vif)-deficient HIV-1 replication. However, virus-encoded Vifs abolish this defense system by specifically recruiting A3s to an E3 ubiquitin ligase complex to induce their degradation. The highly conserved Vif PPLP motif is critical for the Vif-mediated antagonism of A3s and is believed to be important for Vif multimerization. However, how the PPLP motif dictates the functions of Vif remains unclear. Here, we aimed to elucidate this mechanism using biochemical and structural biology approaches. First, we found that no stable Vif multimer complexes formed in our tandem coimmunoprecipitation assays. Next, a series of Vif truncation mutants were constructed, and the short α-helix α6 just downstream of PPLP was found to be the smallest fragment essential for efficient A3G degradation in cells.
In silico
structural analysis suggested that PPLP-α6 adopts a stable L-shaped conformation when complexed in Vif/CBF-β and contributes to the structural integrity of Vif.
In vitro
ubiquitination assays with recombinant proteins confirmed that PPLP-α6 is necessary to form the functional complex of the E3 ligase adaptor of Vif/CBF-β/elongin B/elongin C. Additionally, mutations of the highly conserved PPLP-α6 hydrophobic residues severely disrupted Vif function. In the Vif structure, PPLP-α6 is positioned behind α1-α2 that constitutes the A3-binding Vif interfaces. Therefore, both the PPLP motif and α6 play critical allosteric roles in maintaining the integrity of the A3 interaction interfaces. Our findings will also provide important data for the design of novel anti-HIV-1 compounds that disrupt the A3-binding Vif interfaces.

IMPORTANCE

The APOBEC3 (A3) family enzymes potently block the replication of retroviruses, such as HIV-1. However, HIV-1 expresses Vif, a small multifaceted protein that binds and specifically eliminates A3s in infected cells via ubiquitination–proteasome degradation. Thus, A3–Vif interactions are attractive targets for anti-HIV-1 drug development. The Vif PPLP motif that is distal from these interfaces is necessary for A3 degradation; however, the mechanism by which PPLP participates in A3 degradation is unknown. In this study, we performed biochemical and structural biology analyses to elucidate the underlying mechanisms involved. We found that the PPLP motif, in addition to the short downstream fragment α6, forms a stable L-shaped conformation and acts as a scaffold for the A3 recognition interfaces. Importantly, mutations in α6 abolished Vif function to antagonize multiple A3 family enzymes. These findings provide important data for the development of novel HIV-1 inhibitors that utilize A3s as cellular defense enzymes.
Small cell carcinoma of the ovary, hypercalcaemic type causing an acute kidney injury
Authors: Baker-Rand Holly , Shawky Mohamed , Agrawal Surabhi , Morrison Jo
Published: January 2025

We report a case of small cell carcinoma of the ovary, hypercalcaemic type, a rare and aggressive form of ovarian cancer, causing an acute kidney injury. A woman in her mid-30s presented with a large pelvic mass and abdominal distention, this was associated with rapidly deteriorating renal function, which did not improve with standardised kidney injury treatment. There was a high suspicion of ovarian cancer. She deteriorated and underwent emergency cytoreductive surgery, followed by systemic chemotherapy. Her presentation, acute kidney injury and electrolyte disturbance preoperatively and postoperatively suggest this was caused by her cancer. Renal dysfunction, due to paraneoplastic syndromes, is a rare oncological emergency seen with solid tumours. Awareness of the condition can lead to early recognition and timely management.
Deep learning-based anterior segment identification and parameter assessment of primary angle closure disease in ultrasound biomicroscopy images
Authors: Li Fangting , Zhang Xiaoyue , Yang Kangyi , Qin Jiayin , Lv Bin , Lv Kun , Ma Yao , Sun Xingzhi , Ni Yuan , Xie Guotong , Wu Huijuan
Published: January 2025

Purpose

To develop an artificial intelligence algorithm to automatically identify the anterior segment structures and assess multiple parameters of primary angle closure disease (PACD) in ultrasound biomicroscopy (UBM) images.

Design

Development and validation of an artificial intelligence algorithm for UBM images.

Methods:

2339 UBM images from 592 subjects were collected for algorithm development. A multitissue segmentation model based on deep learning was developed for automatic identification of anterior segments and localisation of scleral spur. Then, measurement of the typical angle parameters was performed from the predicted results, including angle-opening distance at 500 µm (AOD 500), trabecular–ciliary angle (TCA) and iris area. We then collected 222 UBM images from 45 subjects in two centres for model validation.

Results

The multitissue identification model established in this study reached mean Intersection over Union (IoU) of 0.98, 0.98 and 0.98 on cornea segmentation, iris segmentation and ciliary body segmentation and a mean error distance of 1.07 pixels on scleral spur localisation. Our model got a mean IoU of 0.98, 0.98 and 0.99 on cornea segmentation, iris segmentation and ciliary body segmentation and a mean error distance of 0.49 pixels on scleral spur localisation in open-angle images and received 0.98, 0.98, 0.978 and 1.42 pixels respectively in angle-closure images. The mean differences between automatic and manual measurement of the angle parameters were 3.07 μm of AOD, 3.34 degrees of TCA and 0.05 mm2of iris area.

Conclusions

The automatic method of multitissue identification for PACD eyes developed was feasible, and the automatic measurement of angle parameters was reliable.
Post-acute sequelae of hospitalised COVID-19 re-infection compared with hospitalised first-time infection: a population-based retrospective cohort study in Hong Kong
Authors: Yan Vincent Ka Chun , Zhang Yin , Yang Deliang , Li Xue , Mak Lung Yi , Lai Francisco T T , Chui Celine S L , Wan Eric Yuk Fai , Wong Carlos , Chan Shirley Chiu Wai , Hung Ivan F N , Lau Chak Sing , Chan Esther Wai Yin , Wong Ian Chi-Kei
Published: January 2025

Introduction

COVID-19 infection is associated with post-acute adverse outcomes affecting multiple organ systems. Although preliminary studies have suggested that COVID-19 re-infection may have a cumulative effect on long-term outcome, differential effects of COVID-19 re-infection severe enough to be hospitalised on post-acute sequelae compared with hospitalised first-time infection have not been explored.

Methods

Retrospective cohort study using territory-wide electronic medical records databases in Hong Kong. Adults hospitalised with COVID-19 between 1 January and 30 November 2022, who survived the first 28 days after infection and was discharged, were categorised into re-infection and first-time infection groups. Individuals with reinfection were compared with those with first-time infection for all-cause mortality, all-cause hospital readmission, attendance to the emergency department and complications during the post-acute period using propensity-score-weighted Cox regression. Subgroup analyses were conducted by age (<65 and ≥65 years), sex, Charlson Comorbidity Index (0–4, ≥5), COVID-19 vaccination (0–1, 2+doses) and hospitalisation status of previous infection.

Results

2244 patients with hospitalised COVID-19 re-infection and 58 894 patients with hospitalised first-time COVID-19 infection were included. After a median follow-up of 170 days, re-infection was associated with a significantly higher risk of post-acute all-cause mortality compared with first-time infection (adjusted HR (95% CI): 1.366 (1.166 to 1.600); incidence rate (95% CI): 7.3 (7.1 to 7.5) vs 4.6 (4.4 to 4.7) per 10 000 person-days), all-cause hospital readmission (1.297 (1.200 to 1.403); 50.5 (49.8 to 51.1) vs 28.1 (27.8 to 28.5)), and attendance to emergency departments (1.307 (1.199 to 1.425); 35.4 (34.8 to 35.9) vs 21.9 (21.6 to 22.2)). Findings were consistent across subgroups of age, sex, health status and vaccination status. A greater magnitude of increased risk was observed especially among those hospitalised during a previous infection.

Conclusion

Among patients with COVID-19 infection requiring hospitalisation, COVID-19 re-infection was associated with increased post-acute mortality and morbidity compared with first-time infection. Further studies are warranted to delineate the effects on complications.
Study protocol for the development and pilot-testing of a Self-assessment tool for the implementation of the European Standards of Care for Newborn Health (ESCNH)
Authors: Hoffmann Julia , Lehmann Sarah , Ancora Gina , Hummler Helmut , Lack Nicholas , Schlembach Dietmar , Schouten Esther , Simonelli Ilaria , Thernström Blomqvist Ylva , Vavouraki Eleni , Webbe James , Zimmermann Luc J I , Mader Silke , Geiger Isabel
Published: January 2025

Introduction

In Europe, disparities exist in having access to optimal neonatal care. With the European Standards of Care for Newborn Health (ESCNH), evidence-based reference standards are available which provide guidance to improve the care for preterm and ill newborns. To support healthcare professionals (HCPs) and hospital/clinic management in identifying the extent of ESCNH implementation, a feasible assessment tool is required. Such a tool should help identify areas in need of improvement and provide clear recommendations for action. We aim to develop a digital self-assessment tool for HCPs to detect the local level of ESCNH fulfilment and identify areas in need of improvement, and thus provide recommendations for action.

Methods and analysis

The self-assessment tool will have the form of a digital questionnaire with condensed ESCNH content. A Project Expert Group provides scientific input. With pretesting among HCPs, a template of a questionnaire section is evaluated and adapted accordingly. The subsequently developed full questionnaire will be appraised within a two-round eDelphi survey by at least 50 invited HCPs. Statements and formulations need to be accepted by at least 80% of participants. The remaining discrepancies will be solved in a final workshop. The resulting digital self-assessment tool (SAT) will be translated into several languages and evaluated in a pilot-testing among at least 20 hospitals/clinics across Europe.

Conclusion

With the self-reflection through the SAT, HCPs, hospital/clinic managers, policymakers and other stakeholders will receive feedback on the conformity with the ESCNH and guidance for improvement.

Trial registration number

NCT06379828.
Protocol for the enhanced management of multimorbid patients with COPD and severe asthma: role of indoor air quality
Authors: Gómez-López Alba , Arismendi Ebymar , Cano Isaac , Farre Ramón , Figols María , Hernández Carme , Montilla-Ibarra Antonio , Sánchez-Ruano Núria , Sánchez Benigno , Sisó-Almirall Antoni , Sorribes Marta , Vela Emili , Piera-Jiménez Jordi , Benavent Jaume , Fermoso Jose , Roca Josep , González-Colom Rubèn
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Reducing unplanned hospital admissions in chronic patients at risk is a key area for action due to the high healthcare and societal burden of the phenomenon. The inconclusive results of preventive strategies in patients with chronic obstructive respiratory disorders and comorbidities are explainable by multifactorial but actionable factors.

The current protocol (January 2024–December 2025) relies on the hypothesis that intertwined actions in four dimensions: (1) management change, (2) personalisation of the interventions based on early detection/treatment of acute episodes and enhanced management of comorbidities, (3) mature digital support and (4) comprehensive assessment, can effectively overcome most of the limitations shown by previous preventive strategies. Accordingly, the main objective is to implement a novel integrated care preventive service for enhanced management of these patients, as well as to evaluate its potential for value generation.

Methods and analysis

At the end of 2024, the specifics of the novel service will be defined through the articulation of its four main components: (1) enhanced lung function testing through oscillometry, (2) continuous monitoring of indoor air quality as a potential triggering factor, (3) digital support with an adaptive case management (ACM) approach and (4) predictive modelling for early identification and management of exacerbations. During 2025, the novel service will be assessed using a Quintuple Aim approach. Moreover, the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research will be applied to assess the implementation. The service components will be articulated through four sequential 6-month plan-do-study-act cycles. Each cycle involves a targeted cocreation process following a mixed-methods approach with the active participation of patients, health professionals, managers and digital experts.

Ethics and dissemination

The Ethics Committee for Human Research at Hospital Clinic de Barcelona approved the protocol on 29 June 2023 (HCB/2023/0126). Before any procedure, all patients in the study must sign an informed consent form.

Trial registration number

NCT06421402.
Sports behaviour and adherence to sports and exercise recommendations in patients with myocarditis
Authors: Schütze Jonathan , Bernhard Benedikt , Greisser Noah , Joss Philippe , Manser Sarah , Stark Anselm W , Shiri Isaac , Gebhard Catherine , Pavlicek Maryam , Wilhelm Matthias , Gräni Christoph
Published: January 2025

Aim

In the clinical setting of acute myocarditis, existing guidelines recommend refraining from moderate-intensity to high-intensity sports for 3–6 months, yet the extent to which these recommendations are implemented by clinicians and followed by patients remains unclear.

Methods

From January 2020 to December 2023, consecutive patients with myocarditis according to European Society of Cardiology criteria were prospectively enrolled. Myocarditis was categorised into acute, subacute and non-acute myocarditis. Patients completed a sports questionnaire and sports behaviour was categorised into no sports (NSP), recreational (REC) or competitive sports (COMP).

Results

A total of 165 patients with myocarditis (mean age 50±17 years, 35% women) completed the questionnaire. Overall 73 (44%) patients received sports counselling. A total of 44 (72%) patients engaged in sports (REC+COMP) with acute or subacute myocarditis, received sports counselling with 38 (87%) adhering. Overall COMP patients (all male) received more counselling (11/11; 100%) compared with REC (53/105; 50%) and NSP (9/49; 18%). Of 39 women in the REC group, 14 (36%) received recommendations, whereas of 66 men 39 (59%) received recommendations (p<0.001). Of all patients engaged in sports, 55% received recommendations. Self-reported adherence to recommendations was significantly lower in COMP (73%) compared with REC (92%, p<0.001).

Conclusion

Although only half of the myocarditis patients received counselling regarding sports activity, adherence to these recommendations was generally high but varied by activity level. Women received fewer recommendations overall compared with men. While competitive athletes were counselled more frequently than recreational athletes, they were less likely to adhere to the recommendations.
Trends in alcohol, MDMA, methylamphetamine and THC in injured and deceased motor vehicle drivers and motorcyclists over a decade (2010–2019) in Victoria, Australia
Authors: Schumann Jennifer , Di Rago Matthew , Woodford Noel , Glowacki Linda , Fitzpatrick John , Kelly Michael , Beck Ben , Drummer Olaf H , Gerostamoulos Dimitri , Dipnall Joanna F
Published: January 2025

Background

Driving under the influence of alcohol and other drugs contributes significantly to road traffic crashes worldwide. This study explored trends of alcohol, methylamphetamine (MA), 3,4-methylenedioxy-N-methylamphetamine (MDMA) and Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), in road crashes from 2010 to 2019 in Victoria, Australia.

Methods

We conducted a cross-sectional analysis using data from the Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine and Victoria Police, examining proscribed drug detections in road crashes. Time series graphs per substance explored indicative trends and comparisons between road users. Negative binomial regression models, with robust SEs and adjusted for exposure (kilometres travelled, Victorian licence holders), modelled the incidence rate ratio, with a Bonferroni-adjusted α=0.007 for multiple comparisons.

Results

There were 19 843 injured drivers and 1596 fatally injured drivers. MA had the highest prevalence (12.3% of fatalities and 9.1% of injured drivers), demonstrating an increase over time. Overall, 16.8% of car drivers and motorcyclists tested positive for one or more drugs, with 14% of crashes involving a blood alcohol concentration (BAC)≥0.05%. MA and THC were the most common drugs in fatalities. Between 2015 and 2019, MA was detected in 27.9% of motorcyclist fatalities, followed by THC (18.3%) and alcohol ≥0.05% (14.2%), with similar but lower frequencies among injured motorcyclists. Alcohol detections (≥0.05% BAC) in fatalities declined, but increased in injured motorcyclists and car drivers until plateauing in 2017. THC detections rose among injured drivers until 2018, detected in 8.1% and 15.2% of injured and fatal drivers, respectively. MDMA-positive driving decreased among injured drivers and remained stable at ~1% of fatalities.

Conclusions

Despite enhanced road safety measures in Victoria, drug-driving persists, indicating a need for revised prevention strategies targeting this growing issue.
Ultrasonographic assessment of optic nerve: does it help in lupus-induced optic neuropathy?
Authors: Elsonbaty Amira , Mahmoud Doaa M , Alattar Sara , Shaaban Ahmed Hosny , Allam Abdallah El-Sayed
Published: January 2025

Objective

Evaluating the potential role of neuromuscular ultrasonography (NMUS) in assessing optic nerve affection in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), compared with healthy controls and other conventional strategies in diagnosing optic neuropathy.

Methods

We conducted an observational cross-sectional study comparing patients with SLE and a healthy group. We measured the optic nerve diameter (OND) and optic nerve sheath diameter (ONSD) and calculated the OND/ONSD ratio and side-to-side difference. An ophthalmologist examined all lupus patients and visual evoked potential (VEP) was performed to help evaluate the rule of NMUS in lupus-induced optic neuropathy.

Results

In this study, we include 140 subjects, 65 lupus patients and 75 controls. Significant enlargement was present among lupus patients OND and ONSD (p= 0.017, 0.004, respectively) in comparison to controls; ultrasonographic evaluation had a high specificity when compared to ophthalmological evaluation and VEP reaching 89.6% and 88.1%, respectively, but with very low sensitivity.

Conclusion

Ultrasonographic evaluation of the optic nerve may add significant value to the diagnosis of optic neuropathy in patients with SLE and should be considered a complementary tool to other conventional methods.
Cultural assumptions and the good death: rethinking global frameworks
Authors: Zaman Shahaduz
Published: January 2025

The concept of a ‘good death’ remains debated, with research largely focused on the Global North, leaving gaps in understanding its relevance to the Global South. While the concept of a good death is not a strict binary, notable differences exist. In the Global North, emphasis often lies on individual autonomy and preferences, whereas in the Global South, the focus tends to include the perspectives and needs of family and social networks.

Despite differing notions of a good death between the Global North and South, Global North frameworks often set the benchmark. For example, ‘The Economist’s Quality of Death Index’ ranks countries by their provision of a ‘good death’, with Western nations, particularly the UK, leading. While not explicitly endorsing a Global North model, the index promotes a narrative that implicitly positions institutionalised and professionalised palliative care as the ideal, urging lower-ranked Global South countries to adopt these standards.

Using a postcolonial perspective, this paper critiques the universalisation of such models, which position Global North approaches as the gold standard. Drawing on literature and personal observations, I explore the cultural assumptions surrounding a good death and advocate for recognising diverse ways of dying. I propose that a good death consists of two components: ‘value’, or the judgement of what constitutes a good death, and ‘logistics’, or the arrangements made to achieve it. This framework underscores the importance of tailoring end-of-life care to the negotiation of value and logistics within different cultural contexts.
Impossible motherhood: a health humanities reading of two monologues for women
Authors: Sidi Leah
Published: January 2025

Separated by a gap of 27 years, Anna Reynold’sJordan(1992) and Gary Owen’sIphigenia in Splott(2015) offer, on the surface, dramaturgically similar critiques of the impact of poverty on motherhood. Both plays are critically acclaimed monologues for women, which describe the death of a baby following inadequate interventions from health and/or social care services. This article examines the different theatrical contexts for these plays and offers a situated reading of the representation of maternal crisis in circumstances of social deprivation. When considered in parallel,JordanandIphigenia in Splottreveal the persistent vulnerability faced by low-income mothers and would-be mothers under conditions of Thatcherite and austerity governing. In the context of the health humanities, they reveal how austerity government shapes the lives of women through the scarcity of adequate maternal health and social care services. By placing Owen’s play in dialogue with the 1990s feminist monologue, I suggest that Owen posits a dramaturgical through-line between post-2008 austerity policies and the socio-political conditions that concerned second wave feminists.Iphigenia in Splotthighlights the post-2008 crisis of care and demonstrates its continuity with forms of social marginalisation, housing precarity and ‘hollowing out’ introduced under Thatcher and thematised two decades earlier inJordan.
The Palatini formalism of the $$f(R,{\mathcal {L}}_{m},T)$$ theory of gravity
Authors: de Lima J. G. , Moraes P. H. R. S. , Brito E. , Fortunato J. A. S.
Published: January 2025

We present the first formulation of the recently proposed

$$f(R,{\mathcal {L}}_m,T)$$

f
(
R
,

L
m

,
T
)

theory of gravity within the Palatini formalism, a well-known alternative variational approach where the metric and connection are treated as independent variables. By applying this formalism, we derive a new set of field equations that exhibit, as expected, distinct properties compared to their metric formalism counterparts. We particularly present the Newtonian limit of this formalism, as well as the resulting Friedmann-like equations. We highlight that potential observational signatures may distinguish between the metric and Palatini frameworks. Our results open new pathways for exploring the phenomenology of modified gravity theories and their testability with observational data.
The impact of effective mass mismatch and quantum dot size on the interband absorption and sub-bandgap photocurrent of box-shaped InAs/GaAs quantum dot-intermediate band solar cells
Authors: Kiziloglu Volkan , Saritas Muzeyyen
Published: January 2025

The InAs/GaAs quantum dot intermediate band solar cells (QD-IBSCs) have the potential for high conversion efficiency. In practice, their efficiencies have not reached 20%. In this study, the confined energy levels, interband absorption coefficients, and absorbed sub-bandgap photocurrent densities are calculated with QD size using equal effective mass and effective mass mismatch for the box-shaped InAs/GaAs QD system. The four-band k

$$\cdot $$

·

p model was applied to the InAs/GaAs QD system. The energy of IB levels with the effective mass mismatch decreased compared with the equal effective mass. The interband photocurrent density increased with effective mass mismatch since more confined energy states contributed to interband absorption. If the in-plane QD density raised from

$$4\times 10^{10}$$

4
×

10
10

$$\hbox {cm}^{-2}$$

cm

-
2

to

$$4\times 10^{11} \,\hbox {cm}^{-2}$$

4
×

10
11

cm

-
2

, the interband photocurrent density increased from 0.58 to 5.19

$$\hbox {mA/cm}^{2}$$

mA/cm
2

for equal effective mass and 0.99 to 8.38

$$\hbox {mA/cm}^{2}$$

mA/cm
2

for the effective mass mismatch with 16 nm

$$\times $$

×

16 nm

$$\times $$

×

6 nm of QD size, under one sun concentration. Increasing the QD size also allows additional IB states within the forbidden band; thus, the interband photocurrent increases with QD size. The interband photocurrent density for 10 nm and 16 nm QD widths is 0.39

$$\hbox {mA/cm}^{2}$$

mA/cm
2

and 0.99

$$\hbox {mA/cm}^{2}$$

mA/cm
2

, respectively.
Application of Support Vector Machine Algorithm in Predicting the Career Development Path of College Students
Authors: Li Yan , Zhao Liang
Published: January 2025

This paper focuses on analyzing the use of the Support Vector Machine (SVM) classifier in forecasting the career progression of college students. In this case, the research seeks to evaluate the performance of SVM in the prediction of students’ job outcomes regarding factors like GPA, extra curriculum activities, and internship. This dataset was taken with these attributes and after completing the exploration a feature selection by the Recursive Feature Elimination (RFE) was used. The model compiled the data with 80% of data for training, with the 20% of data that were used for testing, the model’s overall accuracy in prediction stood at 87%. Evaluation metrics such as precision, recall, and F1-score were used to validate the model’s performance across five distinct career paths: Academia, industry, entrepreneurship, government, and freelancing. In general, high accuracy in identifying academic and government careers was reported while freelancing and entrepreneurship were less successfully predicted possibly because of their unbound lifestyle. As stated, the study shows that SVM can indeed be used for career counseling in the educational sectors since students can be given an objective model to follow. Future enhancement includes the addition of personality variables and career choice to improve prediction for the less defined occupation types such as freelance work and self-employment.
Computer-Assisted Optimization of Spatial Layout in Dual-Robot Systems for Upper Limb Rehabilitation Using Genetic Algorithms
Authors: Xu Dong , Ren Yilei , Xu Han , Li Yibin , Zhou Qicai , Liu Yufei , Zhang Xu
Published: January 2025

Robotic therapy has demonstrated significant potential in upper limb rehabilitation, particularly for patients with unilateral motor function disorders resulting from stroke. Dual-robot systems introduce innovative approaches to enhance rehabilitation efficiency, yet optimizing their spatial layout to maximize collaborative workspace poses a considerable challenge. This paper presents a robust, computer-assisted optimization framework for the spatial layout of a dual-robot system aimed at unilateral upper limb rehabilitation, integrating advanced collision detection mechanisms to ensure safe and effective operation. We developed a mathematical model consisting of two six-degree-of-freedom robots designed to assist in limb movement. A genetic algorithm was employed to maximize the collaborative workspace while preventing collisions, using a penalty-based mechanism to enforce safety constraints. Through extensive simulations, optimal layout parameters were determined as [Formula: see text]. Stability tests revealed convergence of the fitness function at 6.18e7[Formula: see text]mm3 after 274 generations, confirming the algorithm’s reliability. Furthermore, we validated the accuracy of the genetic algorithm by uniformly sampling layout parameters, achieving a relative error of no more than 1.57% from the maximum volume. Visualization techniques affirmed that the optimal parameters resided within the global optimum region, further validating the algorithm’s effectiveness and robustness. This research lays a solid methodological foundation for optimizing spatial layouts in dual-robot-assisted unilateral upper limb rehabilitation, paving the way for future investigations into collaborative control and real-time adaptability, ensuring improved patient outcomes and clinical applicability.