bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nature-based Solutions for Climate-Resilient Urban landscapes: Implementation in the New Capital City of Indonesia
Authors: Mustofa I , Mistoro N H , Suharyanto H H R , Hasanah A U , Prawitasari D A
Published: February 2025

The concept of nature-based solutions (NBS) emerges as a multidimensional approach to achieve sustainable development while enhancing resilience to environmental hazards, in solving the challenges posed by climate change and rapid urbanization. This article examines the integration of NBS in the development of the new capital city of Indonesia, located in Nusantara, East Kalimantan, focusing on its role in climate resilience and low carbon development. Methodologically, the study explores how NBS can effectively conserve green and blue carbon through a synthesis of literature, case studies, and policy analyses, thereby contributing to carbon sequestration and climate change mitigation efforts. Additionally, the paper examines the potential of NBS in reducing the impacts of hydrometeorological disasters, such as floods and forest fires, which pose significant threats to the region’s ecological integrity and human well-being. By leveraging the natural landscape and ecosystem services, NBS can mitigate urban heat island effects, improve air and water quality, enhance biodiversity, and reduce vulnerability to extreme weather events. Furthermore, the paper emphasizes the importance of stakeholder engagement, including the participation of Masyarakat adat (indigenous communities), in the co-design and implementation of NBS initiatives. Through inclusive governance structures and participatory planning processes, the new capital city can foster social cohesion, equity, and cultural resilience while advancing sustainable urban development goals. Overall, the integration of NBS represents a transformative pathway towards building climate-resilient and livable urban landscapes that serve as models of sustainability for Indonesia and beyond.
The Influence of Climate Dynamics on The Development of Regional Landscapes
Authors: Asfandi A.M , Sudarmadji T. , Hartati W.
Published: February 2025

Climate change affects various aspects of human life, including regional landscapes, which are closely related to changes in land use and a decrease in biodiversity. This research aims to understand the impact of climatic conditions on the development of the landscape of the Karangan region, East Kutai Regency, East Kalimantan Province, which experiences environmental pressure from various climatic factors and human activities. This region is also influenced by the activities of oil palm plantations and the crude palm oil (CPO) processing industry. These activities not only change land cover but also have an impact on climate change and increased greenhouse gas emissions from industrial activities, and the conversion of forest land to plantations can accelerate local climate change and impact the adaptation of ecosystems and local communities. A phenomenological approach was applied in this research, with descriptive methods and literature studies to collect climate data, including temperature, humidity, rainfall, and UV index. The research results show that in the past ten years, temperatures in the study area have stabilized at an average of 24-27.5°C, while humidity tends to remain above 80% with alarm in any given year. Rainfall has shown a decline over the last four years, which has an impact on the availability of air for the community, and the UV index in this area also shows high values, ranging between 6-9, which has the potential to affect local vegetation. It is hoped that these findings will become the basis for climate adaptation efforts and improving the quality of the environment in the region.
Challenges in Realizing the Protected Green Area in Ibu Kota Nusantara
Authors: Wijaya Endra , Rachman Cipta Indralestari , Azzahra Neisya , Ananda Salsabila Widya , Nurhanifah Deandra Candita
Published: February 2025

Ibu Kota Nusantara (IKN) has a target of realizing the availability of at least 75% of conservation area. This conservation area is also one of the key performance indicators for measuring the success of development in IKN. This target is not easy to achieve because within the IKN area there are still several problems or activities that have an impact on environmental conditions in IKN. Such kinds of problems are closely related to environmental law aspects. This study discusses several challenges that are still problems that could hinder the availability of conservation area in IKN. This study uses normative legal research method, and relies on secondary data. The information or data in this study are taken from several primary and secondary legal materials or documents. Several information obtained through Focus Group Discussion will also be examined. To draw conclusions, qualitative data analysis will be carried out.
Investigation into the performance effect on carbon-carbon composite grid of 10 cm ion thruster with different configurations
Authors: Gao Bin , Li Juan , Chen Juanjuan , Liu Dongbing , Gu Zengjie , Geng Hai , Wang Dongsheng , Yan Nengwen
Published: February 2025

To address the future application requirements of carbon-based material grids for ion thrusters characterized by high thrust, elevated specific impulse, and extended operational life, research was conducted using the LIPS-100 ion thruster developed by the Lanzhou Institute of Physics. This study focused on small-diameter configurations of carbon-carbon composite material grids. Successful development was achieved for both a 10 cm split carbon-carbon planar grid and an integrated carbon-carbon convex grid component. Performance variations among different configurations were investigated through extensive performance tests across the wide-range from 1 to 25 mN, as well as 200 h lifespan assessments under typical conditions at 20 mN. The results indicate that the two configurations of the carbon-carbon grid can achieve stable operation across the broad range of 1–20 mN, with beam current fluctuations ranging from 368 to 379 mA and accel grid current fluctuations between 1.58 and 1.81 mA. Furthermore, the key performance parameters of these grids were comparable to those of the traditional molybdenum grids. Under conditions of high thrust and power, the carbon-carbon grid demonstrated a significant reduction in the intercepted current at the accel grid. In comparison to the split carbon-carbon planar grid, the weight of the integrated carbon-carbon convex composite grid was reduced by 17.5%, the anode voltage decreased by approximately 2.4%–8.6%, and the cathode keeper voltage was reduced by approximately 3.5%–12.4%. It can be concluded that the integrated carbon-carbon convex grid offers distinct advantages in terms of hot-state structural stability, suppression of grid etching rates, and enhancement of thruster discharge efficiency.
Research on full-life rolling bearing virtual-real fusion defect prediction with digital twin
Authors: An Dong , Shi Kang , Shao Meng , Ma Long , Ma Shujun , Wang Liyan , Zhou Peng
Published: February 2025

The digital twin model of full-life rolling bearings is of great significance for the prediction of its working condition. The existing digital twin model outputs simulation data, mainly considering the two degrees of freedom of the outer ring of the bearing; and it does not consider the time series of the bearing vibration signal in the virtual-real interaction process, which affects the model prediction accuracy. In this paper, a six-degree-of-freedom full-life rolling bearing digital twin model is proposed. First, a six-degree-of-freedom dynamics model is established as a means of generating simulation data that is closer to the real working state of the bearing. Then the improved CycleGAN combined with DTW dynamic time regularization is used to reduce the error between the simulation data and the measured data and realize the time series regularization. Finally, the digital twin model established in this paper is evaluated by applying the XJTU-SY bearing dataset.
What Violent Protestors Want
Authors: Pasternak Avia
Published: February 2025

This chapter explores the core features of the violent protests that are the subject of the analysis. It presents their specific characteristics and demonstrates how they are different from other forms of violent political resistance. First, it describes the injustices that the violent protests we are concerned with here respond to: serious, entrenched domestic injustices. Second, it reviews the political goals of participants in such protests: to bring about social change, to hold to account those in power, to resist political marginalization, and to communicate or express anger and defiance. The chapter reflects on the importance of these goals, setting the stage for the assessment of violence carried out on their behalf.
Analysis of hydration states of thermo-responsive poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) by the combination of infrared absorption spectroscopy and multivariate curve resolution
Authors: Harimoto Haruki , Chikami Shunta , Maeda Shoichi , Latag Glenn Villena , Ang Art Wei Yao , Hayashi Tomohiro
Published: February 2025

Abstrat

Water molecules in the vicinity of polymers influence the behaviors of solvated polymeric materials. However, understanding the behavior of these vicinal water molecules is challenging. Using a multivariate curve resolution (MCR) approach, we present a method for extracting the infrared absorption spectra of vicinal water of poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) (PNIPAAm). Our analysis successfully quantified vicinal water molecules, showing significantly higher hydration numbers in the hydrophilic state, providing insights into the role of vicinal water in the temperature-dependent affinity switching of PNIPAAm towards cells.
Emerging Antihypertensive Therapies and Cardiovascular, Kidney and Metabolic Outcomes: A Mendelian Randomisation Study
Authors: Le Nhu Ngoc , Tran Tran Quoc Bao , McClure John , Gill Dipender , Padmanabhan Sandosh
Published: February 2025

Aims

Emerging antihypertensive drug classes offer new opportunities to manage hypertension, however, their long-term effects on cardiovascular, kidney and metabolic (CKM) outcomes remain to be elucidated. This study aims to explore the effects of phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors (PDE5i), soluble guanylate cyclase stimulators (sGCs), endothelin receptor antagonists (ERA), and angiotensinogen inhibitors (AGTi) on a range of CKM outcomes.

Methods and Results

Mendelian randomisation (MR), summary-based MR (SMR), and colocalisation analyses were applied to assess the drug effect on coronary artery disease (CAD), myocardial infarction (MI), ischemic stroke, atrial fibrillation (AF), heart failure (HF), type 2 diabetes (T2D), and chronic kidney disease (CKD). Genetic association and gene expression summary data were obtained from the largest European-ancestry genome-wide association studies (GWAS) and the Genotype-Tissue Expression (GTEx) version 8 for 29 tissues relevant to the outcomes' pathophysiology.

Genetically predicted systolic blood pressure (SBP) reduction was associated with reduced risks of all outcomes. PDE5i was associated with reduced risks of CAD (OR per 10-mmHg decrease in SBP: 0.348[95% CI: 0.199–0.607]) and ischemic stroke (0.588[0.453–0.763]). sGCs showed protective effects against CAD (0.332[0.236–0.469]), MI (0.238[0.168–0.337]), and CKD (0.55[0.398–0.761]). ERA and AGTi showed protective effects against CAD and ischemic stroke. SMR and colocalisation supported the association of gene expression levels of GUCY1A3 and PDE5A with CAD and MI risk.

Conclusion

Our study highlights the potential of PDE5i, sGCs, ERA, and AGTi in reducing cardiovascular and renal risks. These findings underscore the necessity for targeted clinical trials to validate the efficacy and safety of these therapies.
Rapidly-rotating early-Earth dynamos in a full-sphere geometry
Authors: Burmann F , Luo J , Marti P , Jackson A
Published: February 2025

While the Earth’s magnetic field has existed for 4Gyr or more, most recent estimates for the age of the inner core nucleation date no further back than 1.5Gyr. As a consequence, the relevant geometry for the Earth’s dynamo has been a full sphere for much of its life, fundamentally different from the present day dynamo operating in a spherical shell. We therefore systematically study magnetic field generation in a rapidly-rotating full sphere where convection is driven by heat sources uniformly-distributed throughout the fluid. We observe a rich diversity of behaviour in our solutions, including dipolar and multipolar dominated fields, together with vacillating and chaotically-reversing magnetic fields. At Prandtl number of unity, we construct regime diagrams as a function of three control parameters, namely the Rayleigh, Ekman and magnetic Prandtl number, which show some similarities with the corresponding diagrams for spherical shell dynamos. This study comprehensively demonstrates the feasibility of early-Earth dynamos that operate based on secular cooling of the core.
Data approximation by neural nets for the MRE inverse problem in the frequency and time domains
Authors: J Davies Penny
Published: February 2025

“Stacked” matrix approximation methods for computing the shear modulus in the magnetic resonance elastography (MRE) inverse problem have been shown to work well in both the frequency and time domain formulations, and are robust to moderate levels of noise. However, when finite differences are used to approximate derivatives of the measured displacement the algorithms can break down at high noise levels. Here we show that if instead a neural network is used to approximate the derivatives of the noisy displacement data, then the overall MRE algorithms become much more robust to noise pollution. Extensive tests indicate that the new methods perform extremely well even in the presence of very high levels of noise, and no additional processing or smoothing of the data is required.
Calcium Isotope Ratio in Patients with Monogenic Bone Diseases – a Prospective, Cross Sectional, Single Center Pilot Study
Authors: Munzinger Robert , von Brackel Felix N , Bartosik Mikolaj , Barvencik Florian , Amling Michael , Oheim Ralf
Published: February 2025

Stable calcium isotopes fractions have long been related to the calcium metabolism in living organisms. The blood and urine proportions of calcium isotopes 44Ca and 42Ca (δ44/42Ca) have recently again attracted attention as a potential diagnostic tool in metabolic bone diseases, in particular osteoporosis. The hypothesis is, that the lighter isotopes (Ca42) get incorporated into bone more quickly, hence δ44/42Ca ratios in urine and serum are higher for bone formation and lower for resorption phases. Therefore δ44/42Ca in blood and urine may serve as an indicator of bone metabolism, potentially reflecting bone density in general. We have conducted clinical characterization by means of laboratory assessment, bone densitometry, high resolution peripheral quantitative computed tomography and isotope analysis to test for the hypothesis in patients with monogenic bone diseases. We included 40 adult subjects with hereditary bone diseases, such as early-onset osteoporosis (EOOP, n = 7), osteogenesis imperfecta (OI, n = 12), hypophosphatasia (HPP, n = 12) and X-linked hypophosphatemia (XLH, n = 9) and controls (n = 17). Regression analyses revealed significant correlations of δ44/42Ca with Ca/creatinineurine (R2 = 0.6200, p<.0001) and bone densitometric parameters were significantly correlated with δ44/42Ca (bone mineral density: δ44/42Caserum R2 = 0.2685, p≤.001; δ44/42Caurine R2 = 0.3554; p<.0002). XLH differed significantly from the other diseases and controls by means of higher δ44/42Caurine. Our results suggest that δ44/42Ca is strongly coupled to urinary calcium excretion in patients with hereditary bone diseases. Significant correlations with bone mineral density suggest an interaction of δ44/42Ca and bone mass though it lacks discriminative power. Further studies are needed to evaluate the utility of δ44/42Ca in clinical practice.
Neural Network-based model of galaxy power spectrum: Fast full-shape galaxy power spectrum analysis
Authors: Trusov Svyatoslav , Zarrouk Pauline , Cole Shaun
Published: February 2025

We present a Neural Network based emulator for the galaxy redshift-space power spectrum that enables several orders of magnitude acceleration in the galaxy clustering parameter inference, while preserving 3σ accuracy better than 0.5% up to kmax=0.25 hMpc−1 within ΛCDM and around 0.5% w0-waCDM. Our surrogate model only emulates the galaxy bias-invariant terms of 1-loop perturbation theory predictions, these terms are then combined analytically with galaxy bias terms, counter-terms and stochastic terms in order to obtain the non-linear redshift space galaxy power spectrum. This allows us to avoid any galaxy bias prescription in the training of the emulator, which makes it more flexible. Moreover, we include the redshift z ∈ [0, 1.4] in the training which further avoids the need for re-training the emulator. We showcase the performance of the emulator in recovering the cosmological parameters of ΛCDM by analysing the suite of 25 AbacusSummit simulations that mimic the DESI Luminous Red Galaxies at z = 0.5 and z = 0.8, together as the Emission Line Galaxies at z = 0.8. We obtain similar performance in all cases, demonstrating the reliability of the emulator for any galaxy sample at any redshift in 0 < z < 1.4. We will make our emulator public at github repository.
Avian Migration-Mediated Transmission and Recombination driving the Diversity of Gammacoronaviruses and Deltacoronaviruses
Authors: Xu Yuting , Han Yelin , Xu Panpan , Zhou Siyu , Zhao Peng , Wang Yuyang , Hu Jie , Ma Min , Li Zirong , Bo Shunqi , Zhao Chenyao , Ji Lei , Yuan Yue , Zhao Wenliang , Wang Jianwei , Jin Qi , He Guimei , Wu Zhiqiang
Published: February 2025

In the wake of pandemics like COVID-19, which have zoonotic origins, the role of wildlife as reservoirs for emerging infectious diseases has garnered heightened attention. Migratory birds, traversing continents, represent a potent but under-researched vector for the spread of infectious diseases, including novel coronaviruses. This study delves into the genetic diversity and transmission dynamics of coronaviruses in migratory birds, presenting pivotal findings. From April 2019 to April 2023, we screened 5,263 migratory bird samples collected from Shanghai, China, identifying 372 coronavirus-positive samples belonging to five avian-related coronavirus subgenera and subsequently obtaining 120 complete genome sequences. To facilitate further research with a global perspective, the study curated all available 19,000 avian-associated CoVs and expanded the original 12 species to 16, including three novel coronavirus species identified in our study and one re-classified species from the public domain. The study illuminates the intricate genetic evolution and transmission dynamics of birds-related coronaviruses on a global scale. A notable aspect of our research is the identification of complex recombination patterns within the spike protein across different virus species and subgenera, highlighting migratory birds as a reservoir of coronavirus. Notably, the coronaviruses found in migratory birds, predominantly from the orders Anseriformes, Charadriiformes, and Pelecaniformes, with domestic ducks from Anseriformes playing a key role in bridging the transmission of coronaviruses between migratory and non-migratory birds. These findings reveal the genetic and recombination characteristics of coronaviruses in migratory birds, emphasizing the critical role of ecologically pivotal bird species in coronavirus transmission and genetic diversity shaping.
Causal association between telomere length and female cancers: a two-sample Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Shi Yangyang , Huang He , Zhang Rui , Yin Ling
Published: February 2025

Purpose

To explore the causal associations between genetically predicted telomere length and gynecologic and breast cancers.

Methods

This Mendelian randomization study used data from genome-wide association studies on telomere length and breast (BC), cervical cancer, endometrial (EC), and ovarian (OC) cancers. The primary analysis was performed using the inverse variance weighted (IVW) method, with confirmation using the weighted median, weighted mode, and MR-Egger methods. Heterogeneity was detected using Cochran’s Q-test, horizontal pleiotropy using MR-Egger regression, outliers using MR-PRESSO, and discordant single-nucleotide polymorphisms using the leave-one-out method.

Results

The genetic prediction results indicated causal associations between the risk of telomere length and EC [IVW; OR = 1.29, 95% confidence interval (95%CI): 1.05–1.59, P = .02], leukocyte telomere length and EC (IVW; OR = 1.23, 95%CI: 1.01–1.51, P = .04), telomere length and OC (IVW; OR = 1.27, 95%CI: 1.01–1.60, P = .04), telomere length and BC (IVW; OR = 1.12, 95%CI: 1.01–1.23, P = .03), and leukocyte telomere length and BC (IVW; OR = 1.12, 95%CI: 1.02–1.24, P = .02). Cochran’s Q-test revealed heterogeneity for telomere length and BC (P < .001), leukocyte telomere length and BC (P < .001), and B-cell telomere length and BC (P = .012). The MR-Egger regression results suggest that the analyses of telomere length and BC (P = .014) and leukocyte telomere length and BC (P = .044) were influenced by horizontal pleiotropy. The MR-PRESSO analysis indicated the presence of outliers in the analyses of telomere length and BC and leukocyte telomere length and breast cancer. After removing the outliers, the statistical significance remained.

Conclusion

This MR study suggests a causal association between telomere length and BC, EC, and OC, warranting additional study.

Key message What is already known on this topic?  Previous research has indicated an association between telomere length and the risk of various cancers, including breast and gynecologic cancers. However, the causal relationship remained unclear, necessitating further exploration to establish whether telomere length could be a modifiable risk factor for these cancers. What this study adds?  This study provides robust evidence of a causal relationship between genetically predicted telomere length and an increased risk of breast cancer, endometrial cancer, and ovarian cancer, with specific odds ratios indicating a significant association. It highlights that both leukocyte and overall telomere length are important factors in cancer risk. How this study might affect research, practice, or policy?  The findings could inform future research into telomere length as a biomarker for cancer risk, promote investigations into telomere-targeting interventions, and influence guidelines on screening and preventive strategies for at-risk populations based on genetic predispositions.
Cryo-EM structures of Nipah virus polymerase complex reveal highly varied interactions between L and P proteins among paramyxoviruses
Authors: Xue Lu , Chang Tiancai , Gui Jiacheng , Li Zimu , Zhao Heyu , Zou Bingqian , Lu Junnan , Li Mei , Wen Xin , Gao Shenghua , Zhan Peng , Rong Lijun , Feng Liqiang , Gong Peng , He Jun , Chen Xinwen , Xiong Xiaoli
Published: February 2025

Nipah virus (NiV) and related viruses form a distinct henipavirus genus within the Paramyxoviridae family. NiV continues to spillover into the humans causing deadly outbreaks with increasing human-bat interaction. NiV encodes the large protein (L) and phosphoprotein (P) to form the viral RNA polymerase machinery. Their sequences show limited homologies to those of non-henipavirus paramyxoviruses. We report two cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) structures of the Nipah virus (NiV) polymerase L-P complex, expressed and purified in either its full-length or truncated form. The structures resolve the RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) and polyribonucleotidyl transferase (PRNTase) domains of the L protein, as well as a tetrameric P protein bundle bound to the L-RdRp. L-protein C-terminal regions are unresolved, indicating flexibility. Two PRNTase domain zinc-binding sites, conserved in most Mononegavirales, are confirmed essential for NiV polymerase activity. The structures further reveal anchoring of the P protein bundle and P protein X domain (XD) linkers on L, via an interaction pattern distinct among Paramyxoviridae. These interactions facilitate binding of a P protein XD linker in the nucleotide entry channel and distinct positioning of other XD linkers. We show that the disruption of the L-P interactions reduces NiV polymerase activity. The reported structures should facilitate rational antiviral-drug discovery and provide a guide for the functional study of NiV polymerase.
Declining U.S. Soft Power in East Asia: Evaluations of the U.S. COVID-19 Response by Citizens of China, Japan, and South Korea
Authors: Zhai Yida
Published: February 2025

A country's ability to handle emergencies reflects its soft power. This study examines how Chinese, Japanese, and South Korean citizens evaluated the U.S. response to the COVID-19 pandemic and the differences among them. Cross-national surveys were conducted in these three East Asian countries. The results showed that all three countries' citizens unfavorably evaluated the U.S. performance in dealing with COVID-19. However, Japanese and South Korean citizens, to a certain degree, acknowledged the U.S. contribution to international cooperation to control the pandemic, whereas Chinese citizens maintained a negative evaluation thereof. National ingroup identity, such as belief in the superiority of one's home country's political system and nationalist orientations, along with relative comparisons between one's home country and the United States, predicted evaluations of the U.S. response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The Chinese public exhibited a different reaction pattern than their Japanese and South Korean counterparts. The results elucidated the political-psychological underpinnings of evaluating a foreign country and highlighted the changing international relations in East Asia from the perspective of ordinary people.
TMD-like functions through the twisted quark states
Authors: Anikin I V , Chen Xurong
Published: February 2025

We investigate a new class of transverse momentum dependent functions (TMDs), as known as align-spin (AS) functions. In the paper, we propose the most suitable proof of the AS-function existence together with the demonstration of the preponderances if the framework of twisted quark states has been employed. The twisted state corresponds to the elementary particle (quark) which possesses the nontrivial intrinsic orbital angular momentum owing to the swirling trajectory of motion. In its turn, it leads to the cylindric system applied for the consideration. In this connection, we reveal that the twisted (vortex) quark states serve as effective tools for the study of TMDs, thereby facilitating a comprehensive analysis of AS-functions. In contrast to the previous studies, where the existence of new TMDs is related to the the corresponding interactions encoded in the correlators, we now focus on the leading order of interactions providing a simplified and robust method. This has been ensured by the twisted quark in the corresponding correlator because the essential transverse momentum dependence of quarks generated by interactions in the correlators can be alternatively described by the twisted states. Using a cylindrical formulation for twisted states, we can combine the properties of plane-wave particles with a description stemmed from spherical harmonics, resulting in well-defined propagation directions accompanied by essential OAM projections. In particular, this innovative framework opens a new window for the direct investigations of AS-functions, generating the unique angular φ-dependence of differential cross sections. It also points towards promising applications in experimental particle physics.
Muscle‐specific ERRγ activation mitigates muscle atrophy after ACL injury
Authors: Lu Aiping , Sikes Katie J. , Guo Ping , Huard Matthieu , Green Shelbi , Santangelo Kelly , Singer Jacob , Groesbeck Ashley , Tashman Scott , Narkar Vihang A. , Huard Johnny
Published: February 2025

Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury adversely affects skeletal muscle, leading to muscle atrophy and weakness, significantly impacting clinical outcomes. This study aimed to determine if estrogen‐related receptor gamma (ERRγ) overexpression in skeletal muscle could mitigate muscle atrophy after ACL injury. An animal model with selective overexpression of ERRγ in skeletal muscle (ERR‐gamma transgenic mice, TG) and WT control mice were used for this study. All the mice received a mechanical ACL rupture and were euthanized at 4‐ and 8‐week post‐injury. Muscle histology, atrophy, and function were evaluated and compared between the TG and WT mice. Muscle‐specific ERRγ activation in TG mice demonstrated a reduction in muscle fiber atrophy, which consequently ameliorated muscle function loss post‐ACL rupture. Less fibrogenic cellular expansion and muscle fibrosis were observed after ACL injury in TG mice compared to WT mice. Both male and female TG mice can maintain their muscle function 4 weeks after ACL rupture with the muscle function of female TG mice declining 8 weeks post‐injury. In vivo results revealed that ERRγ activation decreased fibrogenic factors, P65, and myostatin expression, prevented the functional loss of muscle progenitor cells (MPCs), and increased CD31 and VEGF expression. These results suggest that overexpression ERRγ in skeletal muscle has a beneficial effect in preventing muscle atrophy and fibrosis after ACL rupture. This study's results will help to develop a novel rehabilitation approach that can significantly improve outcomes after ACL injury.
Maternal Cardiovascular Adaptation to Pregnancy in Obese Pregnant Women
Authors: Patel D , Avesani M , Johnson MR , Di Salvo G , Savvidou MD
Published: February 2025

(Acta Obstet Gynecol Scand. 2024;103:907–916. doi:10.1111/aogs.14777)

The prevalence of obesity has increased since 1975, with the World Health Organization approximating that 13% of adults (650 million) were obese in 2016. By 2020, 60% of women in the UK were overweight, with 29% being obese, a significant portion of whom are in their reproductive years, raising the chances of risky pregnancies. Excess weight affects heart health in nonpregnant individuals, with every 100 g of fat stored leading to a 30 to 50 mL/min rise in cardiac output (CO), resulting in left ventricular (LV) enlargement, thickening of the cardiac muscle, and problems with heart relaxation. Excess fat within the heart muscle can result in impaired heart function and, in cases of extreme and persistent obesity, may lead to the weakening of the heart’s pumping ability.
Association of Free Maternal and Fetal Ropivacaine After Epidural Analgesia for Intrapartum Cesarean Delivery: A Prospective Observational Trial
Authors: Amian J , Weber CF , Sonntagbauer M , Messroghli L , Louwen F , Buxmann H , Paulke A , Zacharowski K
Published: February 2025

(Int J Obstet Anesth. 58;2024:103975. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijoa.2024.103975)

Local anesthetics (LA), such as ropivacaine, are commonly used in epidural analgesia to manage labor pain. Ropivacaine, an amide LA, enters the maternal bloodstream through absorption from the epidural space and may also reach the fetus. It circulates in both bound and free forms in the plasma, with the free form being potentially toxic. Several factors influence maternal exposure to LAs, including the type and concentration of the anesthetic, duration of use, and delivery method. A study by Porter and colleagues showed that ropivacaine exposure in laboring women ranged from 57 to 225 mg. The neonatal population is particularly vulnerable to the toxic effects of LAs due to lower protein binding capacity and serum alpha-l-acid glycoprotein (AAG) levels, leading to a higher proportion of unbound anesthetic in their system.
Long-Term Clinical Outcomes and Anterior Segment Optical Coherence Tomography Findings After Artificial Endothelial Replacement Membrane Implantation
Authors: Fontana Luigi , di Geronimo Natalie , Versura Piera , Moramarco Antonio
Published: February 2025

Purpose:

This study examines the long-term clinical outcomes of an artificial endothelial replacement membrane implant used to treat corneal edema. It also explores the interaction between the device and the posterior surface of the cornea.

Methods:

Patients suffering from late endothelial keratoplasty failure (5 patients) or bullous keratopathy (2 patients) after multiple surgeries underwent EndoArt (EyeYon Medical, Israel) implantation. Before surgery and at 1-, 3-, 6-, 12-, 18-, and 24-month intervals, corrected distance visual acuity and central corneal thickness were measured. High-resolution anterior segment optical coherence tomography images were analyzed at each interval to detect device detachment and evaluate the implant interaction with the corneal tissue over time.

Results:

Corrected distance visual acuity improved from a mean of 1.32 ± 0.23 (logarithm of the Minimum Angle of Resolution) preoperatively to 0.95 ± 0.28 (logarithm of the Minimum Angle of Resolution) 2 years after surgery (P = 0.03). Central corneal thickness significantly decreased from 805 ± 131 μm preoperatively to 577 ± 90 μm postoperatively (P = 0.002). Four of the 7 patients experienced device detachment, requiring 1 or more rebubblings to achieve stable implant adhesion. Anterior segment optical coherence tomography showed annular fibrosis developing between the device margin and the host cornea in most patients, particularly those who had never experienced detachment.

Conclusions:

This study suggests that EndoArt is effective in the long term for improving corneal transparency and visual acuity in patients with chronic corneal edema with a limited prognosis for endothelial keratoplasty. The formation of fibrotic tissue between the periphery of the device and the host cornea may explain the strong adhesion of the implant.
Regaining Control, Quality of Life, and the Experiences of New and Temporary Migrants Who Participated in Peer Navigation for People Living With HIV in Australia: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Krulic Timothy , Brown Graham , Graham Sara , Araya Carlos , Cañita Emil , Bourne Adam
Published: February 2025

In Australia, migrant people living with HIV comprise a disproportionate number of new diagnoses across the country, yet little is known about their experiences with peer navigation. Semistructured interviews examined the quality and impact of HIV peer navigation for 15 new and temporary migrants in Melbourne, Victoria. Participants were diverse in gender and sexuality and were primarily from Asia and Latin America. Their accounts describe stigma, discrimination, and social exclusion related to transnational experiences of HIV, sexuality, and gender and positioned peer navigation as a source of hope, reassurance, acceptance, and belonging. Peer navigation facilitated practical advice and pathways into community, health, legal, and social services that enabled agency and a better quality of life. Our findings suggest that navigators' skill and personal insight into transnational experiences of HIV-related stigma, gender, and sexuality enhanced the effectiveness of support. We discuss recruitment, training, and peer matches as strategies to engage migrants and recommendations to improve wider service and policy responses.
Electrocochleography-Guided Pull-Back Technique of Perimodiolar Electrode for Improved Hearing Preservation
Authors: Walia Amit , Shew Matthew A. , Lee David S. , Ortmann Amanda , Varghese Jordan , Lefler Shannon , Durakovic Nedim , Wick Cameron C. , Herzog Jacques A. , Buchman Craig A.
Published: February 2025

Objective

To evaluate whether electrocochleography (ECochG)-guided pull-back of the perimodiolar electrode improves perimodiolar proximity, hearing preservation (HP), and cochlear implant performance.

Study Design

Prospective cohort study

Setting

Tertiary referral center.

Patients

77 adult CI recipients with residual acoustic hearing (low-frequency pure-tone average of 125, 250, 500 Hz; LFPTA ≤80 dB HL)

Intervention

Unilateral implantation, comparing conventional insertion (N = 31) with ECochG-guided electrode pull-back (N = 46). The guided method uses active ECochG from the apical electrode during adjustment and post-insertion electrode sweep to identify “tonotopic response” (defined as maximum response for 250 Hz at most apical electrode on electrode sweep).

Main Outcome Measures

Perimodiolar proximity (wrapping factor on postoperative CT); speech-perception testing (CNC, AzBio in noise +10 dB SNR); and HP at 3 and 6 months post-activation (defined as LFPTA ≤80 dB HL).

Results

Of the subjects undergoing ECochG-guided insertion, 36 required pull-back based on lack of tonotopic responses, whereas the remaining 10 exhibited “optimal responses” post-insertion, needing no adjustment. Improved perimodiolar proximity was achieved with the ECochG-guided method (mean wrapping factor difference, 6.4; 95% CI, 3.0–9.9). The LFPTA shift was smaller using ECochG-guided pull-back when compared with conventional insertion by 17.0 dB HL (95% CI, 8.3–25.7) and 14.8 dB HL (95% CI, 6.5–23.2) at 3 and 6 months, respectively. Forty percent achieved HP using ECochG-guided pull-back versus 27.5% without. There was no difference in CNC scores among both cohorts, but AzBio in noise scores at 6 months was improved in the ECochG-guided pull-back cohort (mean difference, 19.1%; 95% CI, 5.8–32.4).

Conclusions

ECochG-guided pull-back increased perimodiolar proximity and HP rates. Although there was no difference in speech perception performance in quiet, a significant improvement was noted in noisy conditions, potentially attributable to HP and the utilization of hybrid stimulation.
The Incidence and Prognosis of Positive Autoimmune Laboratory Markers in Idiopathic Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss: A National Database Study
Authors: Vesole Adam S. , Breen Joseph T.
Published: February 2025

Objective

To identify the incidence of positive autoimmune laboratory markers in idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss (iSSNHL) and its impact on hearing prognosis.

Study Design

Retrospective cohort database study

Setting

A collaborative national database (TriNetX) sourced from 79 large healthcare organizations in the United States.

Patients

Adults (≥18 years old) diagnosed with iSSNHL (ICD-10 H91.2) treated with systemic steroids.

Interventions

Autoimmune laboratory markers and salvage intratympanic (IT) steroids for SSNHL (CPT 69801).

Main Outcome Measures

1) Positivity of autoimmune laboratory markers—rheumatoid factor (RF), ANCA, DNA double strand antibody (Ab), Sjogren syndrome A and B Abs, SCL-70 Ab, cardiolipin IgG Ab, Jo-1 Ab, ANA, mitochondria Ab. 2) Percent of patients that underwent salvage IT steroids, cochlear implantation, or hearing aid evaluation—all utilized as a proxy for hearing outcomes.

Results

Subjects with iSSNHL who had autoimmune testing (n = 17,413) were marginally more likely to be positive for at least one autoimmune laboratory marker compared to subjects without iSSNHL (n = 17,413; 23.0% vs. 21.4%, p = 0.0006). Statistical significance was lost after removing nonspecific autoimmune markers, however. Of those with iSSNHL who received systemic steroid treatment, subjects with positive autoimmune markers (n = 5,153) versus negative autoimmune markers (n = 5,153) underwent similar rates of salvage IT steroids (7.1% vs. 7.8%, p = 0.154), hearing aid evaluation (2.76% vs 2.47%, p = 0.354), and cochlear implantation (1.65% vs. 1.69%, p = 0.878).

Conclusions

Patients with iSSNHL have a marginally higher incidence of nonspecific positive autoimmune laboratory markers compared to those without iSSNHL; however, the presence of these markers does not predict treatment response or prognosis. Specifically, autoimmune markers did not predict the need for salvage IT steroids, nor CI and hearing aid use in iSSNHL. Autoimmune laboratory testing may be useful in iSSNHL patients with additional symptoms suspicious for an autoimmune disorder; however, a generalized screening is not recommended as it is unlikely to alter management or prognosis.
Increased Costs and Complication Rates in Vestibular Schwannoma Resections for Neurofibromatosis Type 2
Authors: Fujiwara Rance J.T. , Shi Julia J. , Tan Donald , Sakano Hitomi , Kutz Joe Walter
Published: February 2025

Objective

To characterize inpatient costs and complication rates in sporadic and neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2) patients undergoing resection of vestibular schwannoma (VS).

Design

Cross-sectional analysis.

Setting

National Inpatient Sample, 1998–2021.

Participants

A total of 52,623 inpatient admissions after VS resection.

Interventions

Resection of VS.

Main Outcome(s) and Measure(s)

Patient- and hospital-level demographics of admissions following resection of VS, as well as the frequency of postoperative medical and surgical complications, were tabulated. We evaluated the average cost of admission and compared these outcomes between sporadic and NF2 patients. Multivariate analysis was performed to determine whether NF2 admissions had increased costs and lengths of stay.

Results

A total of 51,459 and 1,164 resections were recorded for sporadic and NF2 patients, respectively. Patients with NF2 were younger (mean age 35.3 vs. 51.1 years) and more likely insured by Medicaid (12.8% vs. 5.4%). The average cost for NF2 admissions was $49,141 (95% CI, 42,527–55,754), relative to sporadic tumors at $38,204 (95% CI, 36,408–40,000). NF2 patients had increased rates of surgical complications, including facial nerve dysfunction (31.7% vs. 17.3%), dysphagia (8.8% vs. 2.8%), aspiration pneumonia (3.4% vs. 0.6%), and sepsis (1.8% vs. 0.4%), which were associated with increased hospital costs. NF2 was not independently associated with increased inpatient hospital costs after controlling for patient factors and complications ($3,977 [95% CI, −$111 to 8,066], p = 0.06).

Conclusions

Relative to sporadic VS admissions, resections in NF2 patients are associated with significantly increased hospital costs, primarily due to increased rates of postoperative surgical, central nervous system–related, and medical complications.
Preventing Cisplatin-Induced Hearing Loss in Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Briggs Erin E. , Kallenberger Ethan M. , Nguyen Shaun A. , Dixon Peter R. , Drawdy Allyson V. , Kejner Alexandra E. , Kaczmar John M. , Newman Jason G. , Albergotti W. Greer
Published: February 2025

Objective

Ototoxicity is a known side effect of cisplatin chemotherapy. The efficacy of various medications used to prevent or reduce ototoxicity in adults receiving cisplatin has not been thoroughly described in the literature.

Data Sources

CINAHL, Cochrane Library, PubMed, and SCOPUS.

Review Methods

Literature was searched between 1990 and 2024. Studies evaluating interventions to prevent hearing loss in adults receiving cisplatin were included. Audiometric data including pure tone threshold, pure tone average, and incidence of hearing loss were extracted from included studies.

Results

Eight studies (N = 431 total patients) pertaining to cisplatin-induced hearing loss in adults were included. Of these studies, six were randomized control trials (N = 372 patients) and two were prospective cohort studies (N = 59 patients). The cytoprotective treatments included diethyldithiocarbamate (intravenously), dexamethasone (intratympanic), N-acetylcysteine (intratympanic), sodium thiosulfate (intravenously), calcium gluconate (intravenously), and aspirin (PO). The treatment group had an incidence in overall hearing loss of 63.3% compared to the 66.2% incidence in the control group ([95% CI, −6.2 to 11.9] p = 0.53). Patients treated with dexamethasone had lower degrees of hearing loss compared to those treated with N-acetylcysteine. However, neither of these interventions were superior to the control group.

Conclusions

These results show no difference in reducing the incidence nor severity of hearing loss between the treatment and control groups. Standardization of evaluated frequencies and ototoxicity grading scales will improve investigators’ ability to compare various treatments. Unfortunately, the power of this study is limited by the sample size.
Impact of Multistage Cannula on Recirculation in Various Venovenous Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation Cannulation Strategies
Authors: Jung Yong Chae , Chong Yooyoung , Han Sung Joon , Park Sang-Jun , Kwak Yujin , Kim Sang Yoon , Shim Man-shik
Published: February 2025

We aimed to compare recirculation of venovenous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (V-V ECMO) administered with various cannula placements for femoro-femoral (F-F) and femoro-jugular (F-J) configurations in patients with respiratory failure. This single-center retrospective study included 58 consecutive patients who underwent V-V ECMO between January 2021 and December 2023. Ultrasonic dilution technology was used to quantify the flow of recirculation. The drain cannula placements were categorized into three positions: right atrium and superior and inferior venae cavae. The primary outcome was the difference in recirculation according to the configuration of the V-V ECMO and cannula tip placement. The secondary outcomes were the correlations between recirculation and distance between cannula tips and recirculation difference after cannula adjustment. The recirculation fractions for all types of F-J (27.18%) and F-F (29.33%) configurations were not significantly different. No significant correlation (r = 0.14) was observed between recirculation and the distance between the drain and return cannula tips in chest radiography. The configuration and placement of the drain cannula may have limited effects on recirculation when using a multistage continuous cannula while applying V-V ECMO.
Emerging agents targeting triglycerides
Authors: Prakash Yash , Bhatt Deepak L. , Malick Waqas A.
Published: February 2025

Purpose of review

Hypertriglyceridemia (HTG), which arises from defects in triglyceride-rich lipoprotein (TRL) metabolism, is associated with increased morbidity and mortality from pancreatitis and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. Traditional therapies, including fibrates and omega-3 fatty acids, have shown limited efficacy in controlling triglyceride (TG) levels and cardiovascular risk. This review explores the role of emerging therapies that target TG and TRL metabolism via novel biochemical pathways.

Recent findings

Apolipoprotein C-III inhibitors appear most effective for patients with variants of severe HTG, particularly multifactorial and familial chylomicronemia syndromes, by enhancing TRL metabolism through both lipoprotein lipase-dependent and independent mechanisms. Angiopoeitin-like proteins 3 and 4 inhibitors appear most useful for mixed hyperlipidemia, with favorable effects across the entire spectrum of apoB-containing atherogenic lipoproteins. For patients with HTG and concomitant complications of insulin resistance, including metabolic associated steatotic liver disease and type 2 diabetes mellitus, fibroblast growth factor-21 analogs may provide significant benefit.

HTG is a diverse condition. Apolipoprotein C-III inhibitors, angiopoeitin-like proteins 3 and 4 inhibitors, and fibroblast growth factor-21 analogs represent significant advancements in the treatment of HTG, offering new hope for effectively managing this condition across its full spectrum of disease.