bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Adapting to the digital marketplace: manufacturer channel selection in the age of consumer migration
Authors: Zhu Jing , Nan Xingchen , Tan Adrian Chen Yang , Wu Fen
Published: February 2025

Purpose

This study aims to examine manufacturers’ strategic responses to consumer migration from offline to online channels, focusing on how these shifts affect their channel selection and business strategies.

Design/methodology/approach

This research uses a theoretical framework using a Stackelberg game model to analyze manufacturers’ decision-making processes amid evolving consumer behaviors. It intricately explores the strategic implications across three distinct channel structures: manufacturer direct sales (MD), retailer resale (RR) and retailer agency (RA), focusing on their economic outcomes and market dynamics. This approach is instrumental in decoding the multifaceted nature of channel migration and its impact on manufacturer–retailer relationships in the digital marketplace.

Findings

The research reveals that in MD and RA scenarios, as channel migration intensifies, manufacturers tend to lower both wholesale and online retail prices. Conversely, in the RR scenario, the set wholesale price is intricately linked to the market share, with higher prices set for smaller offline market shares. From a strategic standpoint, MD emerges as the optimal choice for maximizing manufacturer profits, while RA takes precedence when considering the entire supply chain’s profitability, particularly under high commission costs.

Originality/value

This research illuminates the impact of channel migration on manufacturers’ pricing strategies and channel selection. It not only advances the understanding of consumer behavior in multichannel retail environments but also offers practical insights for businesses in effectively managing online and offline channels.
Mothers against the natural order: Gender representations and desertion of identities in the drama of disinheriting a son in eighteenth‐century Barcelona
Authors: Fargas Peñarrocha Mariela
Published: February 2025

The disinheritance of a firstborn son accustomed to the privileges of exclusion has for centuries been a dramatic event for families, especially if the decision was taken by a woman, the son's own mother. Very few dared to do so, because it symbolised a break with the notion of virtuous, compassionate motherhood; it represented a failure to be ashamed of, as well as being a bold challenge against the male line. Through examination of litigation documents, this text describes a case of disinheritance by a mother that occurred in Barcelona in 1732. The analysis considers the different perspectives of those involved in such events, from the struggle over gender representations to small acts of self‐affirmation by women who became agents of their own lives.
Agonistic interactions between Vespula vulgaris (Linnaeus) and Vespula germanica (Fabricius) (Hymenoptera: Vespidae) during foraging
Authors: Manattini María Celeste , Lozada Mariana , Buteler Micaela
Published: February 2025

Foraging behavior is a key factor associated with the success of social insect invasions. Vespula wasps show complex behavioral patterns and social mechanisms associated with foraging, which are directly related to their invasive success in several countries worldwide. Vespula vulgaris (Linnaeus) and Vespula germanica (Fabricius) are invasive wasps, coexisting in Patagonia, showing temporal and dietary overlap. As generalist, opportunistic predators and scavengers with broad diets, these sympatric wasps share similar niches and foraging habits. We analyzed their foraging strategies and interaction, observing the behavior of each species in the presence of workers of the same species, and the other species at a given resource, directly and indirectly. Directly, from a continuous visual record, we observed and recorded the frequency of wasp's behavior at a feeder for 30 min. Indirectly, we conducted pairwise choice tests to compare wasp preference for treated and untreated feeders with visual and olfactory cues simulating the presence of wasps of the same or different species. We found consistent differences between species in aggressiveness. V. vulgaris showed a greater degree of intraspecific agonistic behavior than toward V. germanica, while V. germanica was less aggressive, and intraspecific and interspecific interactions were similar. Also, V. vulgaris preferred landing on baits without visual and olfactory cues simulating wasps presence, while V. germanica preferred baits with cues simulating its own species over baits with cues representing V. vulgaris. Our results suggest that V. germanica prioritize social facilitation as foraging strategy, while for V. vulgaris aggression is the predominant strategy.
Comparison of all types of loop‐diuretics for chronic heart failure: A protocol for a systematic review and network meta‐analysis
Authors: Taleghani Sami , Lukoschewitz Jasmin Dam , Tonning Sandra , Taraldsen Ida Arentz , Jakobsen Janus C. , Grand Johannes
Published: February 2025

Background

Patients with chronic heart failure (CHF) experience congestion‐related symptoms such as dyspnoea and oedema, both of which are associated with poor outcomes. Loop diuretics are the cornerstone to treat congestion and to maintain euvolemia. While furosemide is the most used loop diuretic, other loop diuretics may exhibit theoretical advantages. We aim to compare all types of loop diuretics for patients with CHF.

Methods

This protocol for a systematic review is conducted with guidance from the Cochrane Handbook and the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analysis Protocols. We will include randomised clinical trials (RCTs) of loop diuretics with other loop diuretics, placebo, or standard of care in CHF patients. The search will be conducted across the major medical databases (including Medline, Embase, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials). The searches will begin in February 2025. The primary outcome will be all‐cause mortality. Secondary outcomes will be all‐cause hospitalization, serious adverse events (SAEs), and changes in body weight (kg). Data will be analysed by traditional meta‐analyses, Trial Sequential Analyses (TSA), and network meta analysis. The risk of bias will be assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool—version 2. The certainty of the evidence will be assessed using the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluations (GRADE) and Confidence in Network Meta‐Analysis (CINEMA) approach.
Gastrointestinal function outcomes following radical and conservative colorectal surgery for deep endometriosis: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Darici Ezgi , Bokor Attila , Pashkunova Daria , Senft Birgit , Cimşit Nilüfer , Hudelist Gernot
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Patients who have undergone colorectal surgery for symptomatic deep endometriosis may still encounter persistent or worsening digestive complaints. The aim of the present work was to analyze gastrointestinal function outcomes after radical and conservative colorectal surgery to further elucidate the effect of surgery on postoperative bowel function.

Material and Methods

PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, Clinical Trials.gov and the Cochrane Database databases were searched from January 1, 2010 until April 1, 2024. The quality of included studies was assessed by the Downs and Black quality checklist. Studies including patients with colorectal endometriosis who either underwent segmental resection (SR) or conservative approaches and reported data on bowel function were included.

Results

From the initial pool of 55 studies, 14 reported patient reported outcome measures eligible to be pooled in the meta‐analysis. Conservative surgery was less associated with constipation and increased number of daily stool (>3/day) when compared to SR (p = 0.02 and p = 0,0004, respectively). No difference was found in the occurrence of gas and stool incontinence (p = 0.72), postsurgical defecation pain (p = 0.44) and time to defer defecation (≤ 15 min; p = 0.64). Patients in the conservative surgery group reported higher postoperative Gastrointestinal Quality of Life Index (GIQLI) when compared to SR (p = 0.01). However, when comparing changes between pre‐ and postsurgical patient reported outcome measures within the respective groups, rather than evaluating postsurgical outcomes alone, none of the intervention groups showed significant changes between pre‐ and postsurgical GIQLI, Knowles Eccersley Scott Symptom Score(KESS) and Wexner scores (p = 0.28, p = 0.94 and p = 0.78, respectively).

Conclusions

Segmental resection seems to be associated with higher rates of post‐operative constipation and lower GIQLI scores when compared to conservative surgery. However, when comparing the change of gastrointestinal function symptoms reflected by changes of gastrointestinal function parameters from pre‐ to postoperative rather than focusing on purely postoperative parameters alone, no significant difference of these parameters was observed between surgical techniques.
SPOP Suppresses Hepatocellular Carcinoma Growth and Metastasis by Ubiquitination and Proteasomal Degradation of TRAF6
Authors: Chang Wenyi , Feng Kaiying , Zhou Peng , Gong Deao , Wang Ke , Huang Ailong , Wang Kai , Tang Ni
Published: February 2025

Tumor necrosis factor receptor‐associated factor‐6 (TRAF6) is a well‐established upstream regulator of the IKK complex, essential for the modulation of the NF‐κB (nuclear factor kappa B) signaling pathway. Aberrant activation of TRAF6 has been strongly implicated in the pathogenesis of various cancers, including hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The speckle type BTB/POZ protein (SPOP), an E3 ubiquitin ligase substrate‐binding adapter, constitutes a significant component of the CUL3/SPOP/RBX1 complex, which is closely linked to tumorigenesis. In this study, we demonstrated that the E3 ubiquitin ligase SPOP shielded TRAF6 from proteasomal degradation, leading to the hyperactivation of the NF‐κB pathway. Notably, a liver cancer‐associated S119N mutation in SPOP resulted in a failure to mediate the ubiquitination and subsequent degradation of TRAF6. Moreover, both gain‐of‐function and loss‐of‐function experiments revealed that SPOP inhibits the proliferation and invasion of HCC cells through the TRAF6‐NF‐κB axis in vitro and in vivo. Taken together, our findings elucidate the underpinning mechanism by which SPOP negatively regulates the stability of the TRAF6 oncoprotein, thus offering a new therapeutic target for HCC intervention.
Learning and Teaching in the Era of Generative Artificial Intelligence Technologies: An In‐Depth Exploration Using Multi‐Analytical SEM‐ANN Approach
Authors: Shahzad Muhammad Farrukh , Xu Shuo , An Xin , Zahid Hira , Asif Muhammad
Published: February 2025

The arrival of generative artificial intelligence (GAI) technologies marks a significant transformation in the educational landscape, with implications for teaching and learning performance. These technologies can generate content, simulate interactions, and adapt to learners' needs, offering opportunities for interactive learning experiences. In China's education sector, incorporating GAI technologies can address educational challenges, enhance teaching practices, and improve performance. This study scrutinises the impact of GAI technologies on learning performance in the education sector, focusing on the mediating roles of e‐learning competence (EC), desire for learning (DL), and beliefs about the future (BF), as well as the moderating role of facilitating conditions amongst Chinese educators. Data was collected from 411 teachers across various educational institutions in China using purposive sampling. PLS‐SEM and ANN were employed to assess the suggested structural model. The study results indicate that GAI technologies significantly influence learning performance by mediating EC, DL, and BF roles. Furthermore, facilitating conditions positively moderate the association amongst GAI technologies and EC, DL, and BF. This study underscores the critical role of self‐determination theory in shaping the effective incorporation of GAI technologies in education, offering valuable insights to improve teaching and learning outcomes in the Chinese education sector.
Body Mass–Biomass Scaling Modulates Species Keystone‐Ness to Press Perturbations
Authors: Li Xiaoxiao , Yang Wei , Novak Mark , Zhao Lei , de Ruiter Peter C. , Yang Zhifeng , Guill Christian
Published: February 2025

Identifying species with disproportionate effects on other species under press perturbations is essential, yet how species traits and community context drive their ‘keystone‐ness’ remain unclear. We quantified keystone‐ness as linearly approximated per capita net effect derived from normalised inverse community matrices and as non‐linear per capita community biomass change from simulated perturbations in food webs with varying biomass structure. In bottom‐heavy webs (negative relationship between species' body mass and their biomass within the web), larger species at higher trophic levels tended to be keystone species, whereas in top‐heavy webs (positive body mass to biomass relationship), the opposite was true and the relationships between species' energetic traits and keystone‐ness were weakened or reversed compared to bottom‐heavy webs. Linear approximations aligned well with non‐linear responses in bottom‐heavy webs, but were less consistent in top‐heavy webs. These findings highlight the importance of community context in shaping species' keystone‐ness and informing effective conservation actions.
Portable ultra‐low‐field magnetic resonance imaging enables postictal seizure imaging
Authors: Bauer Tobias , Sabir Hemmen , Baumgartner Tobias , Rácz Attila , Pukropski Jan , Badr Mostafa , Olbrich Simon , Lange Annalena , Bisten Justus , Groteklaes Anne , Lehnen Nils C. , Cendes Fernando , Radbruch Alexander , Surges Rainer , Rüber Theodor
Published: February 2025

The detection of transient peri‐ictal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) abnormalities has been variable after epileptic seizures. The most common reason for this variability is that abnormalities may disappear if the interval between seizure and scan acquisition is prolonged using conventional high‐field systems. Here, we deployed a portable ultra‐low‐field MRI system in the presurgical evaluation at the bedside of individuals with epilepsy. We hypothesized that this novel technology enables rapid postictal scans and reliably shows focal peri‐ictal MRI abnormalities in the seizure onset zone. A .064‐T Swoop Portable MR Imaging System was used. Postictally, an axial diffusion‐weighted sequence was acquired. The interictal MRI consisted of the diffusion‐weighted and three‐dimensional T1‐weighted sequences. Postictal–interictal difference maps of diffusion‐weighted volumes were calculated. Three individuals were included. Two individuals with focal aware seizures scanned 29 s and 19 min after the seizure, respectively, showed focal restrictions in diffusivity in the seizure onset zone, and a third individual scanned 5 h 45 min after a focal to bilateral tonic–clonic seizure showed global restrictions of diffusivity. Portable ultra‐low‐field MRI opens a new line of inquiry with the aim to establish postictal seizure imaging as part of the presurgical evaluation of people with epilepsy.
Sea anemone Cys‐ladder peptide Ms13‐1 induces a pain response as a positive modulator of acid‐sensing ion channel 1a
Authors: Khasanov Timur A. , Mineev Konstantin S. , Kalinovskii Aleksandr P. , Korolkova Yuliya V. , Palikov Victor A. , Palikova Yulia A. , Dyachenko Igor A. , Kozlov Sergey A. , Andreev Yaroslav A. , Osmakov Dmitry I.
Published: February 2025

Acid‐sensing ion channel 1a (ASIC1a) is involved in processes associated with fear, learning, and neurodegeneration within the central nervous system. However, ASIC1a is also abundant in the peripheral nervous system, where its role is still poorly understood, largely due to the lack of selective ligands. In this study, we present the discovery of the first selective positive allosteric modulator for ASIC1a, isolated from the sea anemone Metridium senile. The active compound, a peptide named Ms13‐1, features a novel type of fold named ‘Cys‐ladder’. Ms13‐1 exhibits high affinity and selectivity for ASIC1a, enhancing channel activation in response to a broad range of acidic stimuli (pH 6.9–5.5) without altering the proton affinity for the channel. Moreover, injection of Ms13‐1 into the hind paw of mice provokes robust and long‐lasting pain‐related behavior, which is significantly attenuated by a selective ASIC1 antagonist. The discovery of this novel selective positive allosteric modulator opens up new perspectives to investigate the role of ASIC1a in various physiological processes.
Cyclic Mechanical Behavior, Damage‐Coupled Constitutive Model, and Remaining Life Prediction Model of QCr0.8 at High Temperature
Authors: Wang Jundong , Yu Jiaheng , Wen Zhixun , Xu Xiangqian , Shi Yanqi , Yue Zhufeng
Published: February 2025

The low cycle fatigue (LCF) behavior including the fatigue life, hysteresis loop, and damage process of QCr0.8 at 350°C and 500°C was studied. A viscoplastic damage‐coupled unified creep‐plasticity constitutive model was developed to simulate the cyclical mechanical behavior and damage of QCr0.8 with the same set of parameters at identical temperatures. Meanwhile, LCF damage measurement methods based on changes in elastic modulus and evolution of peak stress were compared. To assess the remaining life of QCr0.8 after a certain period of service, a remaining life prediction model based on the entropy increase theory within the unified thermodynamic framework was proposed. The results show that the prediction results are in good agreement with experimental data.
Synthesis of a new amino acid derivative with long‐lasting hair shape control effects and elucidation of its mechanisms
Authors: Sato Sotaro , Tabuchi Hinako , Katayama Kohtaro , Matsumoto Kenji , Miyamoto Hiroyuki , Kanno Sorai , Sekiguchi Hiroshi , Tanaka Yoshinobu , Inoue Mari , Murata Choji , Hotta Hiroki , Tsujino Yoshio
Published: February 2025

Objective

Hair is a crucial aspect of an individual's physical appearance. Thus, there is always a need for technology to care for curls and undulations. In this study, we found that heat treatment with a mixed aqueous solution of cysteamine (2‐aminoethanethiol) and fumaric acid was highly effective in improving hair quality. The purpose of this study was to scientifically elucidate the effectiveness of this technology by identifying its active ingredients, evaluating their functionality and analysing changes in the internal structure of hair after treatment.

Method

We observed changes in hair shape through a hair straightening test, analysed the components using liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry (LC/MS) and investigated the effects on mechanical properties using bending and surface friction measurements. Furthermore, we analysed the hair conditions using small‐angle X‐ray scattering (SAXS) measurements and evaluated water retention using thermal analysis.

Results

In the hair straightening test, even extremely strong curls of African human hair improved. The LC/MS results revealed that the active ingredient was 2‐(2‐aminoethylthio) succinic acid (ATS). Furthermore, by treating hair with ATS, decreases in the coefficient of friction and bending stiffness and an increase in moisture content were observed. The SAXS measurements revealed that the treatment widened the distance between the intermediate filaments (IFs) inside the hair and improved the orientation of the IFs.

Conclusion

ATS, produced by the thiol–ene reaction between fumaric acid and cysteamine, acts as an active ingredient in hair shape control. ATS reacted within the matrix and increased the IF–IF distance. This suggests that ATS functions as a crosslinker for keratin proteins. ATS is believed to increase the moisture content of hair and improve hair texture.
TAXATION OF TOP INCOMES AND TAX AVOIDANCE
Authors: Di Nola Alessandro , Kocharkov Georgi , Scholl Almuth , Tkhir Anna‐Mariia , Wang Haomin
Published: February 2025

We examine the aggregate and distributional effects of raising the top marginal income tax rate in the presence of entrepreneurial tax avoidance. In a model with heterogeneous agents and occupational choice, entrepreneurs can avoid taxes by choosing the legal form of business organization and shifting income across tax bases. Applied to the U.S. economy, we find that tax avoidance weakens the distortionary effects of higher income taxes at the top but makes them ineffective at lowering inequality. Eliminating tax avoidance by an equal tax treatment of entrepreneurs across all legal forms substantially increases tax revenue, aggregate output, and welfare.
Validation of the computerised battery for neuropsychological evaluation of children (BENCI) in a Cuban sample
Authors: Pérez‐Marfil María Nieves , Fernández‐Alcántara Manuel , Navarro Elena , García‐Navarro Xiomara , Cruz‐Quintana Francisco
Published: February 2025

The aim of this research was to analyse the reliability and validity of the Computerised Battery for Neuropsychological Evaluation of Children (BENCI) in a Cuban population of children and adolescents. The study involved 1714 Cuban students between the ages of 6 and 18 who were divided into three groups according to their level of education (Elementary: 6–11 years old; High School: 12–14 years old; and Pre‐University: 15–18 years old). All participants were evaluated using the BENCI with some also undergoing additional neuropsychological testing. The BENCI evaluates the following cognitive domains: processing speed, visuomotor coordination, attention, memory, language, and executive functions. The results showed that the BENCI has good test–retest reliability indices and high internal consistency values in Reasoning, Reaction Time, and Working Memory. In terms of validity, the data revealed significant correlations between the BENCI tests and other neuropsychological tests assessing similar cognitive functions. The BENCI also has discriminative validity, as it was found that performance on the tests varies according to the level of education of those being evaluated. In terms of construct validity, confirmatory factor analysis showed that the fit indices for the executive functions dimension of the BENCI are adequate. The data show that the BENCI is a reliable and valid instrument for assessing neurodevelopment in Cuban children and adolescents. Since this is the first neuropsychological test of its kind to be validated in the Cuban population, this finding is of particular importance.
Factors associated with multiple‐death suicides among rural US decedents
Authors: Soupene Victor A. , Hays Timothy , Davis Jonathan , Vakkalanka J. Priyanka
Published: February 2025

Purpose

To identify contributing circumstances to multiple‐death suicides in rural US counties from law enforcement and coroner/medical examiner narratives.

Methods

We identified multiple‐death suicides as multiple suicides (i.e., two or more decedents) from the National Violent Death Reporting System (NVDRS) between 2013 and 2021. We identified rural decedents from their residence in NVDRS using federal information processing codes linked to Rural–Urban Continuum Codes. Quantitatively, we described demographic characteristics and circumstances leading to the suicide. From narrative law enforcement and coroner/medical examiner reports, we generated codes describing demographic and circumstance information using Dedoose software. We then used inductive content analysis to identify themes related to multiple‐death suicides.

Findings

Among all multiple‐death suicides (n = 50 multiple‐death suicides, 99 suicide decedents), decedents were mostly non‐Hispanic White (n = 90; 91%), were male (n = 54; 54%), and had a high school diploma or less (n = 51; 56%). We identified four themes: meticulous and considerate planning (e.g., with notes, reasons, and next steps), mutual dependency (e.g., decedents were in separable), unbearable health conditions (e.g., pain, poor quality of life from chronic illnesses), and social factors of despair (e.g., financial strain, legal problems, and interpersonal violence).

Conclusion

Developing strategies for discussing suicidal ideation and improving access to financial resources and health care may reduce multiple‐death suicides in the rural United States, particularly among older adults with chronic health problems. Improving other public health initiatives such as interpersonal violence and chronic disease prevention and management may further prevent multiple‐death suicides.
Patient perspectives of the impact of a rural health center closure: A cross‐sectional survey
Authors: Trombetta Mallory , Suchy Natalea , Irwin Adriane N.
Published: February 2025

Purpose

To describe the impact from the closure of a rural community's only health center on chronic health conditions, access to care, and quality of care received from the patient's perspective.

Methods

This was a cross‐sectional telephone survey. Adult patients established with a rural health center participated in a 19‐item survey at 6 months post‐closure to collect data on perceived impacts. Data were summarized using descriptive statistics.

Findings

There were 249 patients contacted, with 131 participants (52.6% response rate). Participants had a median age of 63 years (interquartile range, 44.5–73.0), and the majority were female (n = 82; 62.6%) and had been established with the health center for over 10 years (n = 79; 60.3%). At 6 months, the majority of participants had established care with another health center (n = 91; 69.5%). Most participants felt that the closure made it more difficult to access care (n = 106; 80.9%) but did not feel the closure reduced the quality of care they were receiving (n = 42; 32.1%). There was no impact perceived on the management of most health conditions, except chronic pain where worsening was the most selected option.

Conclusions

Patients were able to successfully transition care after closure of their local health center, and most did not perceive an impact on the quality of care received. However, participants reported reduced access to care. Future research might repeat this process, perhaps using a mixed‐method approach, to intentionally capture nuances in patient behavior, experiences, and attitudes following the loss of primary care services in rural communities.
CCL19+ Fibroblasts Promote Tertiary Lymphoid Structure in Oral Lichen Planus: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Lai Yi‐Rao , Pan Lei , Jiang Xin‐Ke , Deng Yi‐Wen , Feng Ming‐Hua , Li Jin , Han Xiao‐Zhe , Sun Lei , Wang Yu‐Feng , Tang Guo‐Yao
Published: February 2025

Objectives

The priming mechanism of adaptive immunity in oral mucositis remains unclarified. This study aimed to elucidate the mechanisms of oral lichen planus (OLP), with a specific focus on the role of inducible tertiary lymphoid structures (iTLSs) and stromal‐immune microenvironments within OLP.

Materials and Methods

We employed single‐cell RNA sequencing and multiplex immunofluorescence staining to characterize the spatial characteristics and transcriptional signature of iTLSs in OLP. To investigate whether the presence of iTLSs influences the disease severity of OLP, we retrospectively collected clinical data from OLP patients.

Results

Based on single‐cell resolution analysis, we identified distinct cellular compositions and fibroblast‐immune cells interactions within the iTLSs of OLP. We highlighted the critical role of CCL19+ fibroblasts in T‐cell chemotaxis, promoting the development of iTLSs. Lymphotoxin was demonstrated to activate fibroblasts expressing CCL19. We revealed a significant correlation between the presence of iTLSs and increased severity of OLP, marked by more atrophic‐erosive forms and higher disease scores in patients with iTLSs.

Conclusions

The present research proposed the fibroblast‐immune cell interactions within iTLSs as essential factors in OLP's inflammatory milieu, indicating iTLSs as the priming structure of T‐cell immunity in the local oral mucosa.
Deciphering Disulfidptosis‐Linked lncRNA Patterns as Potential HNSCC Biomarkers
Authors: Chen Qi , Shi Xiao , Bao Yuanyuan , Chen Yue
Published: February 2025

Background

Our investigation sought to uncover the intrinsic features of Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma (HNSCC), particularly the role of long non‐coding RNAs implicated in disulfidptosis (DRLs).

Materials and Methods

We carried out lncRNA‐mRNA RNA‐Seq studies on HNSCC cells and harnessed the data from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA), which includes 522 HNSCC tumors and 44 normal specimens. Bioinformatics evaluations aided in recognizing DRLs and estimating their prognostic value. Furthermore, we built a predictive model related to the chosen DRLs to scrutinize its linkage with the patients' prognosis. We also dug into tumor mutation loads and responses to chemotherapy.

Results

Our study identified three key DRLs (LINC02434, AC245041.2, and LINC02762) with considerable correlation to HNSCC prognosis. The risk model, utilizing these DRLs, successfully categorized patients into high‐risk and low‐risk clusters, uncovering differential survival trajectories. Moreover, the same risk model conveyed unique prognostic potential in HNSCC. Surveying the tumor microenvironment unfolded disparities between the groups, hinting toward potential implications for tactics in immunotherapy. We recognized distinct chemotherapeutic drugs with fluctuating responses across the risk clusters and molecular categories.

Conclusion

This investigation not only sheds light on prospective therapeutic pathways but also enhances our grasp of the molecular intricacies of HNSCC.
Real‐World Study of Later‐Line Anlotinib in R/M Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Ju Houyu , Zhao Yuanyuan , Zhao Minqi , Chen Lingyan , Geng Xinrong , Xu Xuanli , Ren Guoxin , Hu Jingzhou
Published: February 2025

Objectives

The option is rare for patients with recurrent or metastatic head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (R/M HNSCC) failed to prior‐line immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) and cetuximab‐based treatment. The efficacy of salvage therapy was unsatisfied.

Materials and Methods

We collected the clinical data of R/M HNSCC patients progressed from prior‐line immunotherapy and cetuximab therapy, and retrospectively analyzed the efficacy and toxicity of anlotinib‐based therapy in these patients.

Results

In total, 24 eligible participants were accrued between October 2021 and November 2024. Up to the cutoff time of November 1st, 2024, the objective response rate was 37.5%. Survival analysis revealed the median progression‐free survival and overall survival was 4.27 months (95% CI, 1.53–7.01 months) and 8.67 months (95% CI, 5.62–11.72 months), respectively. For the safety, most common TRAEs with any grades were hypertension, hand–foot syndrome, gastrointestinal response, hemorrhage, hepatic dysfunction, and fatigue. Grade 3 or more TRAEs were observed in 3 (12.5%) patients, and no Grade 5 TRAEs were occurred.

Conclusions

Our observations indicated that anlotinib‐based therapy had considerable efficacy and well tolerance in R/M HNSCC patients failed to ICIs and cetuximab‐based therapy, and might be acted as a novel and potentially effective option in later‐line treatment of R/M HNSCC.
Unravelling the metabolic signatures and associated pathways underlying saline‐alkali stress resilience in the halophyte Salvadora persica
Authors: Kumari Asha , Fatnani Dhara , Seth Chandra Sekhar , Parida Asish Kumar
Published: February 2025

Soil salinization and alkalization are the foremost abiotic stresses adversely affecting plant growth and yield worldwide. Salvadora persica is an important facultative halophyte that has been reported for its high salinity tolerance ability. The present study undertakes the growth, photosynthetic efficiency, chlorophyll fluorescence, antioxidative defense, ionomic adjustments, and metabolomic responses of S. persica to understand its resilience mechanisms under saline‐alkali stress. Our findings reveal that S. persica undergoes substantial physiological, ionomic, and metabolic modulations for endurance under saline‐alkali stress. Under saline‐alkali stress, metabolomic analysis identified 75 differentially accumulated metabolites (DAMS), including amino acids, sugars, sugar alcohols, organic acids, polyphenols, and phytohormones. Notable upregulated metabolites included quercetin (+4‐fold), naringenin (+2.6‐fold), glycerol (+2.4‐fold), and proline (+1.7‐fold), whereas D‐mannitol (−3.8‐fold), D‐talose (−2.9‐fold), and GA3 (−2.8‐fold) were significantly downregulated. Pathway enrichment analysis revealed alterations in key metabolic pathways, such as amino acid metabolism, starch and sucrose metabolism, tricarboxylic acid cycle (TCA cycle), glycolysis/gluconeogenesis, and photosynthetic carbon fixation. A 2‐fold reduction in glucose indicated an enhanced glycolytic flux to support energy needs under stress. The study highlights S. persica's adaptive strategy of slower nitrogen metabolism, increased glycolysis, and downregulated TCA cycle, giving an indication towards a slower growth rate under saline‐alkali stress to reallocate energy for osmolyte biosynthesis. The amino acids, sugars, and sugar alcohols emerged as major contributors to osmotic adjustment. A robust antioxidant defense system exists in S. persica to mitigate ROS under saline‐alkali stress. These findings provide insights into the mechanisms of saline‐alkali tolerance in the halophyte S. persica, offering valuable direction for developing saline‐alkali‐tolerant crops.
Coloniality, Socio‐Epistemic Vices and the Question of Knowledge in Iran
Authors: Zeiny Esmaeil
Published: February 2025

While a diverse group of scholars from a wide variety of academic disciplines addressed and questioned Euro‐Americocentric hegemony as the dominant orientation in knowledge production, I believe that Euro‐Americocentrism is not the only problem that affects knowledge production. I am concerned that scholars are caught in a circle of mapping the contours of this Euro‐Americocentric hegemony in knowledge production that they mostly fail to perceive other forms of coloniality enacted by the non‐whites and the Global South. There are less‐noticed but everyday non‐Eurocentric forms of socio‐epistemic vices and hegemonic orientations, many of which lead to distrust, sexism and racism, exclusion, and alienation. These socio‐epistemic vices cause epistemic harm and can be seen as parallel to Euro‐Americocentrism. Anchored within such discourse, this paper reinforces a paradigm of decoloniality that involves scrutinizing behaviors and practices as everyday social interactions reflect deep‐rooted epistemology. Using examples of socio‐epistemic vices in Iran, I demonstrate how these vices and subjugations affect knowledge production.
Stem cell health from mom’s gut
Authors: Ferrarelli Leslie K.
Published: February 2025

A bacterium in the maternal gut promotes stem cell activity and long-term gut and brain health in offspring.
Regional exhumation of the Laramide Province
Authors: Jepson Gilby , Carrapa Barbara , Reeher Lauren J. , DeCelles Peter G. , Afonso Walter D. , Howlett Caden J. , Caylor Emilia A. , Sherpa Tshering Z.L. , Wang Jordan W. , Constenius Kurt N.
Published: February 2025

Western North America is the archetypical Cordilleran orogenic system that preserves a Mesozoic to Cenozoic record of oceanic Farallon plate subduction-related processes. After prolonged Late Jurassic through mid-Cretaceous normal-angle Farallon plate subduction that produced the western North American batholith belt and retroarc fold-thrust belt, a period of low-angle, flat-slab subduction during Late Cretaceous−Paleogene time caused upper plate deformation to migrate eastward in the form of the Laramide basement-involved uplifts, which partitioned the original regional foreland basin. Major questions persist about the mechanism and timing of flat-slab subduction, the trajectory of the flat-slab, inter-plate coupling mechanism(s), and the upper-plate deformational response to such processes. Critical for testing various flat-slab hypotheses are the timing, rate, and distribution of exhumation experienced by the Laramide uplifts as recorded by low-temperature thermochronology. In this contribution, we address the timing of regional exhumation of the Laramide uplifts by combining apatite fission-track (AFT) and (U-Th-Sm)/He (AHe) data from 29 new samples with 564 previously published AFT, AHe, and zircon (U-Th)/He ages from Laramide structures in Arizona, Utah, Wyoming, Colorado, Montana, and South Dakota, USA. We integrate our results with existing geological constraints and with new regional cross sections to reconstruct the spatial and temporal history of exhumation driven by Laramide deformation from the mid-Cretaceous to Paleogene. Our analysis suggests a two-stage exhumation of the Laramide province, with an early phase of localized exhumation occurring at ca. 100−80 Ma in Wyoming and Montana, followed by a more regional period of exhumation at ca. 70−50 Ma. Generally, the onset of enhanced exhumation occurs earlier in the northern Laramide province (ca. 90 Ma) and later in the southern Laramide province (ca. 80 Ma). Thermal history models of selected samples along regional cross sections through Utah−Arizona−New Mexico and Wyoming−South Dakota show that exhumation occurred contemporaneously with deformation, implying that Laramide basement block exhumation is coupled with regional deformation. These results have implications for testing proposed migration pathway models of Farallon flat-slab and for how upper-plate deformation is expressed in flat-slab subduction zones in general.
Supplemental Material: Paleomagnetic evidence for 50 m.y. of tectonic rotations in the Junggar block driven by far-field effects of the India-Eurasia collision
Authors: Zhong Mengting , Kravchinsky Vadim , al. et
Published: February 2025

The Supplemental tables list the summary of paleomagnetic mean directions from the Burqin section and Tieersihabahe section (Table S1), a summary of paleomagnetic data from the Burqin section (Table S2) and Tieersihabahe section (Table S3). The Supplemental figures present a comparison of paleomagnetic directions between the current study and the results from a previous study (Fig. S1; Zhang et al., 2007, 2012) and diagrams of the bootstrap reversal test for the directions of the seven age bins of the Burqin section and Tieersihabahe section (Fig. S2).
Role of point-of-care ultrasound in emergency airway management for a patient with deep neck abscess
Authors: Trivedi Saurabh , Thaware Pooja ,   Ankita , Lakra Anshu Priyanka , Kushwaha Jitendra , Yunus Md
Published: February 2025

Deep neck abscesses are infections of potential spaces of the neck and pose significant morbidity due to their proximity to critical structures such as the airway. A man presented to the emergency room with difficulty breathing and neck swelling. A 70° endoscopic examination of the larynx revealed diffuse laryngeal oedema, with multiple pus pockets surrounding a large, floppy, oedematous epiglottis. Since securing the airway was challenging and the patient was in respiratory distress, ultrasound-guided aspiration of pus was performed, and about 50 mL of pus was aspirated. After pus aspiration, the patient’s respiratory distress was relieved, and he could lie supine. The airway was secured by direct laryngoscopy, and the otolaryngologist did further drainage of the deep-seated abscess. Point-of-care ultrasound is important in the airway management of a patient with deep neck abscess. Ultrasound-guided aspiration of pus helps decrease airway oedema, making the intubation process less challenging.
What should be documented for an anterior shoulder dislocation? A Delphi study
Authors: van der Naald Niels , Verweij Lukas P E , Van Den Bekerom Michel P J , Walraven Lucia F J , Baden David Nico
Published: February 2025

Background

Standardised consensus-based documentation following anterior shoulder dislocation in the ED might improve clinical quality, reduce heterogeneity in research and reduce workload. The aim of this study was to determine important elements and the extent of variability for the ED documentation following anterior shoulder dislocation.

Methods

An expert panel of physicians who perform the documentation (emergency physicians) of diagnosis and management of anterior shoulder dislocation and those who may read it (orthopaedic surgeons and general practitioners) was recruited in a three-round Delphi design between May and November 2022. Important elements were identified for history, physical examination, additional examinations, reduction technique and miscellaneous. These were rated on a 0–9 Likert scale. Consensus was reached when ≥80% scored 7–9. Another, independent, outcome was high variability in opinion, defined as at least one score between 1 and 3 and one score between 7 and 9 on an item after the third round.

Results

The expert panel consisted of 22 emergency physicians, 5 general practitioners and 3 orthopaedic surgeons. In the first round, 85 elements were identified, and consensus on importance was reached in 22 out of the 85 elements:medical history(5 out of 30),physical examination(5 out of 18),additional examinations(5 out of 9),reduction(5 out of 17) andmiscellaneous(2 out of 11). High variability in importance was seen in 79 (93%) out of the 85 elements after the third round.

Conclusion

A consensus on 22 out of the 85 elements was reached and could be included in the ED documentation on anterior shoulder dislocation. Regardless of this consensus, high variability was observed in almost all the elements, highlighting the difference in opinions. Nevertheless, these elements could facilitate more concise communication among healthcare professionals and could facilitate homogenous datasets.
Association of social isolation and loneliness with all-cause and cause-specific mortality among individuals with type 2 diabetes: a prospective study in UK Biobank
Authors: Duan Xiaoran , Wei Yujie , Ge Yahao , Bo Yacong , Wang Xiaofang , Zhu Yongjian
Published: February 2025

Background

Previous study revealed that social isolation and loneliness are associated with incident type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). However, the long-term effects of social isolation and loneliness on the population with T2DM have not been known. This study aims to evaluate the potential associations of social isolation and loneliness with all-cause and cause-specific mortality in individuals with T2DM.

Methods

The prospective cohort study included 26 549 UK adults diagnosed with T2DM at baseline. Social isolation and loneliness were evaluated through a self-reported questionnaire. Mortality data was obtained from the National Death Registration Centre.

Results

During a median follow-up of 13.3 years (IQR: 12.5–14.2 years), 5467 (20.6%) participants died from all-cause, 1953 (7.4%) from cardiovascular disease (CVD) and 1569 (5.9%) from cancer. Social isolation could increase the risks of all-cause, CVD and cancer mortality (most vs least; adjusted HR (95% CI): 1.32 (1.22–1.42), 1.44 (1.26–1.65) and 1.19 (1.05–1.34), respectively). Similarly, loneliness significantly increased the risks of all-cause, and CVD mortality (yes vs no; adjusted HR (95% CI): 1.17 (1.07–1.28) and 1.26 (1.07–1.48)). In joint analyses, as the degree of social isolation intensified, there were concomitant rises in the risks of all-cause, and CVD mortality in the no-loneliness or loneliness subgroup (adjusted HR (95% CI): 1.4 (1.21–1.61) and 1.65 (1.29–2.11)).

Conclusions

This study found that social isolation was significantly associated with the increased risks of all-cause, CVD and cancer mortality among individuals with T2DM. Loneliness was also associated with all-cause mortality and CVD mortality, but not cancer mortality. These findings highlight the importance of social isolation and loneliness management in patients with T2DM.
Income inequality and adherence to 24-hour movement guideline recommendations among adolescents: a multilevel growth curve analysis using longitudinal data from three waves of the Cannabis, Obesity, Mental health, Physical activity, Sedentary behaviour and Smoking (COMPASS) study (2016–2019)
Authors: Hunter Stephen , Perala Zack , Patte Karen , Leatherdale Scott , Carson Valerie , Chaput Jean-Philippe , Faulkner Guy , Pabayo Roman
Published: February 2025

Background

There is a paucity of literature regarding income inequality and adolescent movement behaviours (physical activity, sedentary behaviours, sleep). This study examined whether income inequality was associated with meeting Canadian 24-Hour Movement Guidelines (24HMG) recommendations among adolescents over time.

Methods

Longitudinal data from adolescents (n=9299) in the Cannabis, Obesity, Mental health, Physical activity, Sedentary behaviour and Smoking study (2016–2017 to 2018–2019) were linked with income data at the census division (CD) level from the 2016 Canadian Census. Adolescents (aged 13–19 years) reported on their physical activity, sleep duration and screen time via questionnaire. Gini coefficients were calculated at the CD level using after-tax household income from the 2016 Canadian Census. Multilevel logistic regression analyses were performed to test the association between income inequality and meeting several 24HMG recommendations.

Results

The joint effect (income inequality*time) was significant for meeting the sleep duration recommendation (2017–2018 OR=0.83, 95% CI 0.74, 0.92; 2018–2019 OR=0.77, 95% CI 0.70, 0.86; p<0.0001), meeting any two recommendations over time (2017–2018 OR=0.97, 95% CI 0.86, 1.09; 2018–2019 OR=0.85, 95% CI 0.75, 0.97; p=0.0402) and meeting combined sleep and physical activity recommendations (2017–2018 OR=0.93, 95% CI 0.82, 1.06; 2018–2019 OR=0.82, 95% CI 0.71, 0.94; p=0.0200). Joint effects (income inequality*time) were not significant (p>0.05) for screen time or physical activity independently of sleep.

Conclusion

Adolescents attending schools in areas with greater income inequality may be at higher risk for inadequate sleep and combined short sleep and physical inactivity.
FRONT block: a cadaveric study of a dual-plane injection block targeting femoral rami and obturator nerve trunk for anterior hip joint analgesia
Authors: Jessen Christian , Bjørn Siska , Hörmann Romed , Honis Hanne-Rose , Bendtsen Thomas Fichtner
Published: February 2025

Background

The quest for a single nerve block to anesthetize all anterior hip articular nerve branches has long been a challenge for anesthetists, particularly in targeting the obturator nerve (ON). The FRONT block (Femoral Rami Obturator Nerve Trunk) is a newly developed dual-injection technique providing comprehensive anesthetic coverage of the anterior hip joint by targeting both the sensory femoral rami and the ON trunk.

Methods

15 intact cadaveric sides from eight embalmed cadavers were dissected after FRONT block administration with one injection and two dye deposits in the iliopsoas plane and in the subpectineal compartment under dynamic ultrasonography. The primary outcome was dye spread to the sensory hip articular branches of the femoral nerve (FN) and the ON trunk evaluated during the gross anatomical dissection. Secondary outcomes included identifying landmarks for accurate injection of dye and measuring the distance from the needle trajectory to the femoral and the lateral femoral cutaneous nerves (LFCN).

Results

In 86.7% of cadaver sides, the FRONT block successfully covered both the sensory femoral rami and the ON trunk. The injection was performed 6.7 cm (SD 1.6) distal to the anterior superior iliac spine with a medial deviation of 1.8 cm (SD 2.1). The average distance from the needle trajectory to the FN was 0.8 cm (SD 0.4) and 3.7 (SD 2.1) cm to the LFCN.

Conclusion

The FRONT block offers reliable coverage of the anterior hip joint and capsule. Proficiency in ultrasound-guided regional anesthesia is important during clinical applications.