bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
“I Wish No Child Died Like This”: Analyzing Responses from Parents of Babies Who Died of Complex Congenital Heart Disease in a Pediatric Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Benedetti Francesca , Verzeletti Viviana , Papa Simonetta , Giacomelli Luca , Agosto Caterina
Published: February 2025

Background: The death of a child due to complex congenital heart disease (CCHD) in pediatric intensive care units profoundly affects families, often resulting in lasting grief and emotional distress. Despite advancements in pediatric palliative care (PPC), significant gaps persist in communication and end-of-life (EoL) planning. This study explores the experiences and perceptions of bereaved parents to identify areas for improvement in PPC delivery. Methods: A qualitative phenomenological design was used to analyze the lived experiences of 18 bereaved parents whose children died from CCHD at a tertiary cardiac center. Semi-structured telephone interviews were conducted, incorporating five open-ended questions. Data were analyzed inductively using Colaizzi’s method to identify recurring themes and subthemes. Results: Four key thematic areas emerged: communication issues, the parental role, child care, and bereavement support. Parents highlighted inconsistent communication, lack of preparedness for EoL decisions, and emotional isolation as major challenges. Positive experiences often involved compassionate healthcare providers and structured psychological support. A significant proportion of parents identified family support and faith as key coping mechanisms, while others expressed dissatisfaction with post-mortem follow-up and the absence of long-term bereavement care. Conclusions: Bereaved parents’ experiences underscore the need for improved communication strategies, greater parental involvement in care, and enhanced bereavement support. Integrating structured decision-making pathways early in the care trajectory may help mitigate parental distress and improve the quality of EoL experiences for children with CCHD.
Endoscopic Ultrasound-Guided Radiofrequency Ablation for Pancreatic Adenocarcinoma: A Scoping Review with Meta-Analysis
Authors: Tieranu Cristian George , Balaban Daniel Vasile , Tabacelia Daniela , Klimko Artsiom , Gheorghe Cristian , Pereira Stephen P. , Jinga Mariana , Saftoiu Adrian
Published: February 2025

Background: Endoscopic ultrasound-guided radiofrequency ablation (EUS-RFA) has recently been proposed as an alternative treatment option for patients with unresectable pancreatic adenocarcinoma (uPDAC) or metastatic pancreatic adenocarcinoma (mPDAC). This review aims to evaluate the technical feasibility, safety, and clinical outcomes of EUS-RFA in treating PDAC, based on the available literature. Methods: Following the PRISMA-DTA guidelines, a comprehensive search of databases, including PubMed, Scopus, and the Cochrane Library, was conducted, focusing on studies reporting on EUS-RFA for PDAC. Articles involving human subjects diagnosed with PDAC and treated with EUS-RFA, written in English, and published up to 30 June 2024, were included. Key outcome measures such as technical success rate, adverse events, tumor response, and patient survival were extracted and analyzed. The review process involved title and abstract screening, followed by full-text review. A meta-analysis was performed for adverse event rates using a random-effects model. Results: We identified 11 studies according to our inclusion criteria, with a total of 137 patients with PDAC. Except for the initial experience with a lower technical success rate due to tumor-related stiffness, all subsequent studies reported a pooled success rate of 100%. Most studies referred to locally advanced or metastatic PDAC, while one reported EUS-RFA in resectable PDAC. A meta-analysis for adverse events was performed, indicating a pooled adverse event rate of 22.6% (95% confidence interval: 0.16–0.30), with the most common adverse event being mild abdominal pain. Severe complications were rare. One study reported a median progression-free survival (PFS) of 16.3 months. Overall survival and PFS were scarcely reported, with median overall survival ranging from 12 to 24 months, inferior to that of the standard approach for uPDAC consisting of neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy followed by surgery. Conclusions: EUS-RFA is a technically feasible and safe procedure for treating uPDAC or mPDAC and is under investigation for use in resectable PDAC. Even though the short-term outcomes are encouraging, larger cohort studies are necessary to understand long-term efficacy and survival benefits, including progression-free survival.
Optical Coherence Tomography-Guided Early Versus Late Switching to Dexamethasone Implants in Macular Edema Related to Central Retinal Vein Occlusion: Real-World Evidence
Authors: Yozgat Zübeyir
Published: February 2025

Background/Objectives: This study evaluated the outcomes of early versus late switching from intravitreal anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) therapy to dexamethasone (DEX) implants in patients with macular edema secondary to central retinal vein occlusion (CRVO). The critical role of optical coherence tomography (OCT) in guiding therapeutic decisions and monitoring treatment responses is emphasized. Methods: In this real-world, retrospective study, 61 treatment-naïve CRVO patients were divided into two groups: Group 1 (early switch after three anti-VEGF injections) and Group 2 (late switch after six months of anti-VEGF therapy). High-resolution OCT was employed at all follow-ups to evaluate anatomical outcomes, specifically changes in central macular subfield thickness (CMST), while best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) was assessed using standardized ETDRS charts. Results: Both groups demonstrated significant improvements in BCVA and reductions in CMST over 52 weeks. Group 1 exhibited slightly greater gains in BCVA (+20.3 ETDRS letters) and a greater CMST reduction (−201.5 µm) compared to Group 2 (+18.5 ETDRS letters, −184.4 µm), although the differences were not statistically significant. The OCT findings enabled precise monitoring and individualized treatment adjustments, reducing the treatment burden in the early-switch group with fewer anti-VEGF injections. Conclusions: Early switching to DEX implants, guided by OCT findings, may optimize therapeutic outcomes and reduce the treatment burden, particularly in real-world settings with limited resources or adherence challenges. These findings highlight the importance of incorporating advanced imaging techniques into routine practice, and underscore the need for further research on OCT-guided therapeutic transitions in macular edema management.
Pupils’ Strategies for Using Multilingualism in Geography Lessons: Successful Learning with Multimedia and Multilingual Media Offerings in Geography Lessons
Authors: Repplinger Nikolaus , Budke Alexandra
Published: February 2025

The study on which the article is based investigates which learning strategies multilingual pupils use when using a multimedia and multilingual media offer in geography lessons and how these influence their subject-related learning success. By way of introduction, the potential of multilingualism for geography lessons is presented theoretically and with reference to neurobiology. A multimedia and multilingual learning platform was developed for the study and trialled in geography lessons. The pupils’ usage strategies were recorded using screen recordings and sound-thinking protocols and mapped in a differentiated way in a model. The most common usage strategies that can be observed include “reversion”, i.e., processing the same information medium first in one language and then again in another, the use of reading strategies, multilingual notetaking, the use of image and map information, bundling information and structured summarising. These utilisation strategies show a positive influence on learning outcomes.
Interdisciplinary Knowledge Flow in International Higher Education Research: Characteristics and Mechanisms
Authors: Jia Wenxiu , Pan Li , Neary Siobhan , Moore Nicki
Published: February 2025

Interdisciplinary knowledge flow provides methodological and theoretical support for solving complex problems in higher education. Based on Darcy’s law, this study constructs a three-dimensional analysis framework for knowledge slope, knowledge stickiness, and flow medium, and combines it with bibliometric methods to analyze key words, references, and other information in 10 journals in JCR 1 or 2 higher education research (HER) fields from 2000 to 2022, so as to explore the characteristics and mechanisms of interdisciplinary knowledge flow in HER. The results show that, in the process of interdisciplinary knowledge flow in HER, the spillover amount of knowledge exchange between HER and other disciplines/fields is less than the absorption amount, and the direction of knowledge flow is knowledge-importing. The phenomenon of reciprocal assimilation between HER and other disciplines/fields is significant, and the knowledge network shows the characteristics of family resemblance. Interdisciplinary knowledge flow in HER is influenced by three factors, among which knowledge slope plays a promoting role, knowledge stickiness plays a hindering role, and the flow medium has a gatekeeper effect in the process.
The Effect of Heat Stress on Wheat Flag Leaves Revealed by Metabolome and Transcriptome Analyses During the Reproductive Stage
Authors: Duan Shuonan , Meng Xiangzhao , Zhang Huaning , Wang Xiaotong , Kang Xu , Liu Zihui , Ma Zhenyu , Li Guoliang , Guo Xiulin
Published: February 2025

In this study, we were dedicated to investigating the effect caused by heat stress on wheat flag leaves. Metabolome and transcriptome analysis were introduced to identify some key biological processes. As a result, 182 and 214 metabolites were significantly changed at the anthesis and post-anthesis stages, respectively; most of them were lipids, amino acids and derivatives, phenolic acids, and alkaloids. Aminoacyl-tRNA biosynthesis was the most significantly enriched pathway by metabolites at both two stages, each of which included 13 types of amino acid, and 12 of them were shared and up-regulated. Therefore, we further measured 22 kinds of amino acid content in ten different wheat genotypes at the post-anthesis stage. Based on the average content of each amino acid, 17 kinds of them were significantly increased after heat stress, and 4 types were significantly decreased. Both the metabolism analysis and the transcriptome analysis had a higher number of significantly changed metabolites or differential expressed genes at the post-anthesis stage, which indicated that the post-anthesis stage is more sensitive to heat stress, with 21,361 and 17,130 differential expressed genes, respectively. Two pathways, protein processing in endoplasmic reticulum and ABC transporters, were significantly enriched at two stages. The differential expressed genes in processing in endoplasmic reticulum pathway mainly encoded various types of molecular chaperones; among them, the HSP20 family was the most predominant and intensively up-regulated. The ABC transporter gene family is another pathway that is deeply involved in heat-stress response, which could be classified into five subfamilies; among them, subfamilies B and G were the most active. In summary, this study revealed the heat response pattern of amino acids, HSPs, and ABC transporter which may play a vital role during the wheat reproductive stage.
Niemann-Pick C-like Endolysosomal Dysfunction in DHDDS Patient Cells, a Congenital Disorder of Glycosylation, Can Be Treated with Miglustat
Authors: Best Hannah L. , Cook Sophie R. , Waller-Evans Helen , Lloyd-Evans Emyr
Published: February 2025

DHDDS (dehydrodolichol diphosphate synthetase) and NgBR (Nogo-B Receptor) collectively form an enzymatic complex important for the synthesis of dolichol, a key component of protein N-glycosylation. Mutations in DHDDS and the gene encoding NgBR (NUS1) are associated with neurodevelopmental disorders that clinically present with epilepsy, motor impairments, and developmental delay. Previous work has demonstrated both DHDDS and NgBR can also interact with NPC2 (Niemann-Pick C (NPC) type 2), a protein which functions to traffic cholesterol out of the lysosome and, when mutated, can cause a lysosomal storage disorder (NPC disease) characterised by an accumulation of cholesterol and glycosphingolipids. Abnormal cholesterol accumulation has also been reported in cells from both individuals and animal models with mutations in NUS1, and suspected lipid storage has been shown in biopsies from individuals with mutations in DHDDS. Our findings provide further evidence for overlap between NPC2 and DHDDS disorders, showing that DHDDS patient fibroblasts have increased lysosomal volume, store cholesterol and ganglioside GM1, and have altered lysosomal Ca2+ homeostasis. Treatment of DHDDS cells, with the approved NPC small molecule therapy, miglustat, improves these disease-associated phenotypes, identifying a possible therapeutic option for DHDDS patients. These data suggest that treatment options currently approved for NPC disease may be translatable to DHDDS/NUS1 patients.
Inhibition Effects and Mechanism Study of rAj-HRP30, a Recombinant Histidine-Rich Peptide from Apostichopus japonicus, on the Viability of Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma Cells Panc01 and Panc02
Authors: Song Yuyao , Gao Shan , Jiang Jingwei , Zhang Yuebin , Zhang Jingyu , Wang Xiaona , Lv Li , Zhou Zunchun , Wang Jihong
Published: February 2025

rAj-HRP30 is a recombinant peptide derived from the wild-type rAj-HRP of Apostichopus japonicus through a gene-shortening mutation. It has a high histidine content (53.3% in its primary structure) and a molecular weight of 3.919 kDa, classifying it as a histidine-rich peptide. The literature reports indicate that human histidine-rich peptides exhibit antitumor activity. Previous research by our group demonstrated similar properties in rAj-HRP, the precursor of rAj-HRP30. Therefore, this study used Panc01 (human) and Panc02 (mouse) cells—highly malignant models with limited targeted therapies—to investigate the antitumor activity and mechanisms of rAj-HRP30 and evaluate its potential for pancreatic cancer treatment. This study designed a gene-shortening strategy for rAj-HRP and artificially synthesized the gene sequence of rAj-HRP30. The cDNA sequence of rAj-HRP30 was cloned into the pET23b vector, and the recombinant plasmid pET23b-HRP30 was transformed into E. coli BL21 for expression. Following IPTG induction, the recombinant peptide was purified using nickel ion affinity chromatography, yielding rAj-HRP30 with a purity exceeding 95%. rAj-HRP30 markedly inhibited the adhesion, migration, and invasion of Panc01 and Panc02 cells. It also disrupted cellular morphology and cytoskeletal structure while inducing apoptosis. These effects were dose-dependent. After confirming the in vitro anticancer activity of rAj-HRP30, this study employed Panc02 cells as a model to investigate its inhibitory mechanisms using Western blot analysis. The results revealed that rAj-HRP30 reduced FGFR1 expression in Panc02 cells and inhibited the downstream FYN and FAK signaling pathways, subsequently blocking the PI3K/AKT signaling and apoptosis pathways. In the apoptotic pathway, rAj-HRP30 was able to downregulate the expression of Bcl-2, Caspase-9, Caspase-3, Caspase-7, and PARP1 and upregulate the expression of Bax, cleaved Caspase-9, cleaved Caspase-3, cleaved Caspase-7, and cleaved-PARP1 to induce apoptosis in Panc02 cells. Furthermore, rAj-HRP30 also downregulated the expression of MMP2 and MMP9, thereby inhibiting the migration and invasion of Panc02 cells. Conclusion: rAj-HRP30 exhibits significant inhibitory effects on pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma Panc01 and Panc02 cells in vitro. Its mechanism involves FGFR1-related signaling and apoptosis pathways. rAj-HRP30 shows promise as a therapeutic agent targeting FGFR for pancreatic cancer.
Soluplus®-Based Pharmaceutical Formulations: Recent Advances in Drug Delivery and Biomedical Applications
Authors: Guembe-Michel Nerea , Nguewa Paul , González-Gaitano Gustavo
Published: February 2025

Poor water solubility remains a significant challenge in the pharmaceutical industry that limits the therapeutic efficacy and bioavailability of many active pharmaceuticals. Soluplus® (SLP), an amphiphilic graft copolymer made of polyethylene glycol, polyvinyl caprolactam, and polyvinyl acetate, has been gaining interest in recent years as it addresses these limitations by acting as a versatile carrier. Its ability to form stable amorphous dispersions and enhance drug solubility, as well as its physicochemical properties, support its role as a key excipient in advanced drug delivery systems. Recent investigations have demonstrated the adaptability of SLP in addressing drug delivery requirements, offering controlled release, improved targeting, and superior therapeutic outcomes. This review examines some key formulation methods that make use of SLP, including hot-melt extrusion, spray drying, electrospinning, drug–polymer layering, and capsule and tablet formulations, highlighting the capacity of SLP to overcome formulation challenges. Biomedical applications of SLP have also been explored, with a focus on its role in improving the delivery of antitumoral, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antiparasitic drugs.
Molecular Precision Medicine: Application of Physiologically Based Pharmacokinetic Modeling to Predict Drug–Drug Interactions Between Lidocaine and Rocuronium/Propofol/Paracetamol
Authors: Silva Abigail , Mourão Joana , Vale Nuno
Published: February 2025

The perioperative period, encompassing preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative phases, is crucial for comprehensive patient care. During this time, the use of opioids and other drugs can lead to drug–drug interactions (DDIs), potentially resulting in adverse drug reactions (ADRs) that increase morbidity, mortality, and healthcare costs. This study investigates the drug–drug interactions (DDIs) between rocuronium, propofol, paracetamol, and lidocaine, focusing on the CYP-mediated metabolism of these drugs in the perioperative context, where these drugs are frequently co-administered. Using physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) modeling through the GastroPlus™ software and in vitro experiments with Hep G2 cells, we aimed to assess potential toxicities and pharmacokinetic interactions. Cellular viability assays revealed significant toxicity when lidocaine was combined with propofol and rocuronium, while paracetamol exhibited no considerable impact on viability. PBPK simulations confirmed moderate interactions with rocuronium and weak interactions with propofol but no relevant interactions with paracetamol. These findings emphasize the need for dose adjustments in perioperative settings to enhance patient safety, particularly with propofol and rocuronium, while supporting the co-administration of lidocaine and paracetamol. These findings show the importance of moving towards a personalized medicine model, adjusting the clinical use of lidocaine according to individual patient needs, thus promoting safer and more effective perioperative care and moving beyond the “one-size-fits-all” approach in anesthetic management.
Circular RNA-Drug Association Prediction Based on Multi-Scale Convolutional Neural Networks and Adversarial Autoencoders
Authors: Wang Yao , Lei Xiujuan , Chen Yuli , Guo Ling , Wu Fang-Xiang
Published: February 2025

The prediction of circular RNA (circRNA)-drug associations plays a crucial role in understanding disease mechanisms and identifying potential therapeutic targets. Traditional methods often struggle to cope with the complexity of heterogeneous networks and the high dimensionality of biological data. In this study, we propose a circRNA-drug association prediction method based on multi-scale convolutional neural networks (MSCNN) and adversarial autoencoders, named AAECDA. First, we construct a feature network by integrating circRNA sequence similarity, drug structure similarity, and known circRNA-drug associations. Then, unlike conventional convolutional neural networks, we employ MSCNN to extract hierarchical features from this integrated network. Subsequently, adversarial characteristics are introduced to further refine these features through an adversarial autoencoder, obtaining low-dimensional representations. Finally, the learned representations are fed into a deep neural network to predict novel circRNA-drug associations. Experiments show that AAECDA outperforms various baseline methods in predicting circRNA-drug associations. Additionally, case studies demonstrate that our model is applicable in practical related tasks.
Progress in Methylxanthine Biosynthesis: Insights into Pathways and Engineering Strategies
Authors: Jiang Tongtong , Zuo Shangci , Liu Chang , Xing Wanbin , Wang Pengchao
Published: February 2025

Methylxanthines are ubiquitous purine alkaloids in nature and have rich biological activities and functions. Today, the demand for methylxanthine is increasing but its production is low. This issue prevents its widespread use in many industrial fields, such as pharmaceuticals, food manufacturing, and chemical engineering. To address these issues, this review provides a comprehensive and systematic exploration of methylxanthines, delving into their biological structures, detailed biosynthetic pathways, and the latest research trends. These findings serve as valuable references for researchers, fostering advancements in the optimization of synthesis processes for methylxanthines and their derivatives and promoting their application across diverse industrial fields, such as medicine, food, and chemical engineering. By bridging fundamental research and practical applications, this work aims to advance the understanding of methylxanthine compounds, enhance their production efficiency, and contribute to healthcare and technological progress.
Propolis: A Natural Substance with Multifaceted Properties and Activities
Authors: Martinotti Simona , Bonsignore Gregorio , Ranzato Elia
Published: February 2025

Propolis (bee glue) is a complex mixture of resins, waxes, and gums, and it is a resinous exudate manufactured by honey bees to maintain the integrity of the hive and defend against external threats. This multifunctional material exhibits several striking properties. The anti-inflammatory properties of propolis have made it a subject of traditional medicine over time, from ancient Egyptian mummification to modern complementary medicine. Propolis with rich phytochemicals, such as polyphenols and flavonoids, exhibit anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anticancer effects. This review describes multiple properties and uses of propolis, highlighting the role of propolis as an exceptional natural resource with high therapeutic potential.
Text Classification: How Machine Learning Is Revolutionizing Text Categorization
Authors: Allam Hesham , Makubvure Lisa , Gyamfi Benjamin , Graham Kwadwo Nyarko , Akinwolere Kehinde
Published: February 2025

The automated classification of texts into predefined categories has become increasingly prominent, driven by the exponential growth of digital documents and the demand for efficient organization. This paper serves as an in-depth survey of text classification and machine learning, consolidating diverse aspects of the field into a single, comprehensive resource—a rarity in the current body of literature. Few studies have achieved such breadth, and this work aims to provide a unified perspective, offering a significant contribution to researchers and the academic community. The survey examines the evolution of machine learning in text categorization (TC), highlighting its transformative advantages over manual classification, such as enhanced accuracy, reduced labor, and adaptability across domains. It delves into various TC tasks and contrasts machine learning methodologies with knowledge engineering approaches, demonstrating the strengths and flexibility of data-driven techniques. Key applications of TC are explored, alongside an analysis of critical machine learning methods, including document representation techniques and dimensionality reduction strategies. Moreover, this study evaluates a range of text categorization models, identifies persistent challenges like class imbalance and overfitting, and investigates emerging trends shaping the future of the field. It discusses essential components such as document representation, classifier construction, and performance evaluation, offering a well-rounded understanding of the current state of TC. Importantly, this paper also provides clear research directions, emphasizing areas requiring further innovation, such as hybrid methodologies, explainable AI (XAI), and scalable approaches for low-resource languages. By bridging gaps in existing knowledge and suggesting actionable paths forward, this work positions itself as a vital resource for academics and industry practitioners, fostering deeper exploration and development in text classification.
Leveraging AI-Generated Virtual Speakers to Enhance Multilingual E-Learning Experiences
Authors: Miranda Sergio , Vegliante Rosa
Published: February 2025

The growing demand for accessible and effective e-learning platforms has led to an increased focus on innovative solutions to address the challenges posed by the diverse linguistic backgrounds of learners. This paper explores the use of AI-generated virtual speakers to enhance multilingual e-learning experiences. This study employs a system developed using Google Sheets and Google Script to create and manage multilingual courses, integrating AI-powered virtual speakers to deliver content in learners’ native languages. The e-learning platform used is a customized Moodle, and three courses were developed: “Mental Wellbeing in Mining”, “Rescue in the Mine”, and “Risk Assessment” for a European ERASMUS+ project. This study involved 147 participants from various educational and professional backgrounds. The main findings indicate that AI-generated virtual speakers significantly improve the accessibility of e-learning content. Participants preferred content in their native language and found AI-generated videos effective and engaging. This study concludes that AI-generated virtual speakers offer a promising approach to overcoming linguistic barriers in e-learning, providing personalized and adaptive learning experiences. Future research should focus on addressing ethical considerations, such as data privacy and algorithmic bias, and expanding the user base to include more languages and proficiency levels.
Aerial Imagery Redefined: Next-Generation Approach to Object Classification
Authors: Dahan Eran , Aviv Itzhak , Diskin Tzvi
Published: February 2025

Identifying and classifying objects in aerial images are two significant and complex issues in computer vision. The fine-grained classification of objects in overhead images has become widespread in various real-world applications, due to recent advancements in high-resolution satellite and airborne imaging systems. The task is challenging, particularly in low-resource cases, due to the minor differences between classes and the significant differences within each class caused by the fine-grained nature. We introduce Classification of Objects for Fine-Grained Analysis (COFGA), a recently developed dataset for accurately categorizing objects in high-resolution aerial images. The COFGA dataset comprises 2104 images and 14,256 annotated objects across 37 distinct labels. This dataset offers superior spatial information compared to other publicly available datasets. The MAFAT Challenge is a task that utilizes COFGA to improve fine-grained classification methods. The baseline model achieved a mAP of 0.6. This cost was 60, whereas the most superior model achieved a score of 0.6271 by utilizing state-of-the-art ensemble techniques and specific preprocessing techniques. We offer solutions to address the difficulties in analyzing aerial images, particularly when annotated and imbalanced class data are scarce. The findings provide valuable insights into the detailed categorization of objects and have practical applications in urban planning, environmental assessment, and agricultural management. We discuss the constraints and potential future endeavors, specifically emphasizing the potential to integrate supplementary modalities and contextual information into aerial imagery analysis.
Supramolecular Assemblies and Anticancer Activities of Aminopyidine-Based Polynuclear and Mononuclear Co(II) Benzoates: Experimental and Theoretical Studies
Authors: Dutta Kamal K. , Baishya Trishnajyoti , Gomila Rosa M. , Frontera Antonio , Barcelo-Oliver Miquel , Verma Akalesh Kumar , Das Jumi , Bhattacharyya Manjit K.
Published: February 2025

Two new Co(II) coordination compounds viz. [Co(H2O)(bz)2(μ-3-Ampy)2]n (1) and [Co(4-Mebz)2(2-Ampy)2] (2) (wherebz = benzoate, 4-Mebz = 4-Methylbenzoate and Ampy = Aminopyridine) were synthesized and characterized via elemental (CHN), electronic spectroscopy, FT-IR spectroscopy, and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The molecular structures were determined by single-crystal X-ray diffraction analysis, inferring that compound 1 crystallizes as a 3-Ampy bridged Co(II) coordination polymer, whereas compound 2 crystallizes as a mononuclear Co(II) compound. Compound 1 unfolds the presence of N–H⋯O, C–H⋯O, O–H⋯O, C–H⋯N and aromatic π⋯π interactions, while for compound 2, N–H⋯O, C–H⋯O, C–H⋯C and C–H⋯π interactions are observed. Both the compounds showcase scarcely reported chelate ring interactions involving the benzoate moiety (chelate ring⋯π in 1 and N–H⋯chelate ring in 2). We also conducted theoretical evaluations comprising of combined QTAIM/NCI plot analysis, DFT energy calculation and MEP surface analysis to analyze the supramolecular interactions present in the crystal structures. As per QTAIM parameters, the predominance of π-stacking interactions over hydrogen bonds in stabilizing the assembly in compound 1 is affirmed. Likewise, in compound 2, both hydrogen bonding (HBs) and C–H⋯π interactions are deemed pivotal in stabilizing the dimeric assemblies. The in vitro antiproliferative activities of compounds 1 and 2 were performed against Dalton’s lymphoma (DL) cancer cell lines through cytotoxicity and apoptosis assays, showcasing higher cytotoxicity of compound 1 (IC50 = 28 μM) over compound 2 (IC50 = 34 μM). Additionally, a molecular docking study investigated the structure–activity relationship of these compounds and allowed an understanding of the molecular behaviour after treatment.
Bridgman Method for Growing Metal Halide Single Crystals: A Review
Authors: Zhu Hui , Wang Suqin , Sheng Ming , Shao Bo , He Yu , Liu Zhuang , Zhou Guangtao
Published: February 2025

The Bridgman method for single-crystal growth enables the formation of crystals at the lower end of the molten material by cooling it under a precisely controlled temperature gradient. This makes it particularly suitable for producing high-quality single-crystal materials. Over the years, the Bridgman technique has become widely adopted for growing single crystals of semiconductors, oxides, sulfides, fluorides, as well as various optoelectronic, magnetic, and piezoelectric materials. Recently, there has been growing interest in metal halide materials, with the growth of high-quality metal halide single crystals emerging as a major focus for both the scientific community and industry. However, traditional solution-based single-crystal growth methods have several limitations, such as slow growth rates, inconsistent crystal quality, challenges in solvent selection, and difficulties in controlling saturation levels. These issues present significant obstacles, particularly when large, defect-free, high-quality single crystals are needed for certain high-performance materials. As a result, the Bridgman method has emerged as an effective solution to overcome these challenges. This review provides an overview of various categories of metal halide single-crystal systems grown using the Bridgman method in recent years. The systems are classified based on their dimensionality into three-dimensional, two-dimensional, and zero-dimensional metal halide structures. Furthermore, we highlight novel metal halide single crystals developed through the Bridgman technique. Additionally, we offer a brief introduction to the structures, properties, and applications of these single crystals, underscoring the crucial role of the Bridgman method in advancing research in this field.
Assessment of Cerebral Hemodynamic Changes During Roll-Over Test in Healthy Pregnant Women and Those with Mild and Severe Preeclampsia
Authors: Nagy Dániel T. , Fülesdi Béla , Kozma Bence , Páll Dénes , Szatmári Szilárd , Hupuczi Petronella
Published: February 2025

Background: Preeclampsia (PE) and eclampsia are characterized by changes in cerebral hemodynamics, which may result in serious and even life-threatening neurological complications. The aim of the present work was to compare cerebral hemodynamic changes during the roll-over test in women with mild and severe PE. Patients and methods: Healthy pregnant and PE women in their third trimester were studied. Transcranial Doppler (TCD) measurements of the right middle cerebral artery (MCA) were performed in the left lateral position and 5 min after turning to the supine position (roll-over test = ROT). Besides cerebral blood flow measurements, the blood pressure was measured in the right arm using a standard mercury sphygmomanometer. An independent gynecologist categorized the preeclamptic patients into mild and severe groups based on the clinical and laboratory results. The TCD assessors were unaware of the patient grouping while performing the TCD and blood pressure measurements. Results: A total of 21 healthy pregnant females (mean age: 26.1 ± 5.1 yrs), 11 females with mild PE (28.2 ± 6.8 yrs), and 18 females with severe PE (29 ± 7.4 yrs) were studied. A significant increase in the mean arterial pressure was observed in all of the groups during the roll-over test: healthy pregnant patients: from 106.3 ± 16.3 to 113.8 ± 15.9 mmHg; patients with mild PE: from 100 ± 11.2 to 110 ± 8.7 mmHg; and patients with severe PE: from 106.3 ± 16.3 to 113.8 ± 15.8 mmHg. The MCA mean blood flow velocities in the left lateral position were significantly lower in the control patients than in those with PE: MCAV control: 71.2 ± 12.7 cm/s; mild PE: 78.2 ± 19.4 cm/s; and severe PE: 96 ± 15.6 cm/s, p < 0.001. Turning to the supine position resulted in a decrease in the MCAV in all of the groups, but the differences between the groups remained unchanged: controls: 69.5 ± 9.1 cm/s; mild PE: 75.7 ± 17.5 cm/s; and severe PE: 85.7 ± 18.4 cm/s, respectively, p = 0.014. A slight but statistically insignificant increase in the pulsatility index was observed in all of the groups. Conclusions: This is the first study comparing cerebral hemodynamic changes in healthy pregnant females and in those with mild and severe PE during a roll-over test. Changing the posture did not result in changes in the cerebral blood flow velocities in the healthy and preeclamptic pregnant patients. Our results indicate that static cerebral autoregulation is preserved both in the mild and severe preeclamptic patients.
Chondrogenic and Osteogenic In Vitro Differentiation Performance of Unsorted and Sorted CD34+, CD146+, and CD271+ Stem Cells Derived from Microfragmented Adipose Tissue of Patients with Knee Osteoarthritis
Authors: Bagge Jasmin , Mahmood Haider , Janes Jennifer , Vomstein Kilian , Blønd Lars , Hölmich Lisbet R. , Freude Kristine , Nehlin Jan O. , Barfod Kristoffer W. , Hölmich Per
Published: February 2025

Background/Objectives: Treatment of knee osteoarthritis (OA) with autologous stem cells from microfragmented adipose tissue (MFAT) has shown promising but varying results. Multiple stem cell types, including CD34+, CD146+, and CD271+ stem cells, have been identified within MFAT. Patient-specific heterogeneity in stem cell populations and the content of highly potent cells may be determining factors for a successful treatment outcome. The current study aimed to identify the most promising stem cell type in MFAT to treat OA, focusing on their chondrogenic and osteogenic differentiation performance. Methods: CD34+, CD146+, and CD271+ stem cells from the MFAT of eight patients with knee OA were separated using magnetic-activated cell sorting (MACS) and analyzed as subtypes. Unsorted cells were used as a control. Chondrogenic and osteogenic in vitro differentiation were assessed through Safranin-O and H&E staining, pellet size, and qPCR for chondrogenesis, as well as Alizarin Red S staining and qPCR for osteogenesis. Results: CD34+, CD146+, and CD271+ stem cells were doubled using MACS. All subtypes were able to undergo osteogenic differentiation with Alizarin Red S staining, revealing a significant increase in calcium deposits of induced cells compared to non-induced controls. CD146+ stem cells showed higher calcium deposition compared to CD34+, CD271+, and unsorted stem cells. All cell types could form chondrogenic pellets. CD271+ stem cells produced more proteoglycans, as shown by Safranin-O staining, than CD34+ and CD146+ stem cells, but not more than the unsorted stem cells. After differentiation induction, all cell types showed an upregulation of most chondrogenic and osteogenic biomarkers. Conclusions: CD146+ stem cells showed the highest osteogenic differentiation performance for calcium deposition, while CD271+ stem cells showed the greatest chondrogenic differentiation performance for proteoglycan formation. The prevalence of these stem cell types may play a critical role in the clinical effectiveness when treating OA.
Impact of Bariatric Surgery on Postoperative Outcomes, Complications, and Revision Rates in Total Knee Arthroplasty: A Big Data Analysis
Authors: Maman David , Eynhoren Guy , Ben-Zvi Lior , Steinfeld Yaniv , Yonai Yaniv , Berkovich Yaron
Published: February 2025

Background: Obesity is a major risk factor for osteoarthritis (OA) and negatively impacts both short-term and long-term outcomes following total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Bariatric surgery has been proposed as a strategy to improve surgical outcomes in obese patients; however, its effects on postoperative complications, hospital stay, healthcare costs, and revision rates remain insufficiently explored. This study investigates whether bariatric surgery before TKA is associated with improved outcomes. Methods: This retrospective cohort study utilized data from the Nationwide Inpatient Sample (NIS) from 2016 to 2019, including 2,519,099 TKA patients, of whom 56,291 had a history of bariatric surgery. Propensity score matching was applied to balance baseline characteristics between groups. Statistical analyses compared the length of hospital stay (LOS), total healthcare costs, postoperative complications, and revision rates. Results: Patients with a history of bariatric surgery exhibited significantly lower rates of sepsis, deep vein thrombosis (DVT), pulmonary embolism (PE), acute kidney injury (AKI), and ileus compared to those without. Additionally, these patients had a shorter LOS and slightly lower total hospital charges. However, the bariatric surgery group had higher rates of blood loss anemia, intraoperative fractures, and blood transfusions. Revision surgery rates were also higher in the bariatric surgery group, with mechanical loosening and prosthesis instability being more common etiologies. Conclusions: Bariatric surgery is associated with fewer early postoperative complications and shorter hospital stays in TKA patients, suggesting potential perioperative benefits. However, increased risks of blood loss anemia, intraoperative fractures, and revision surgery highlight the need for further research on long-term outcomes and alternative weight-loss strategies, such as pharmacologic interventions.
Current Approaches and Innovations in Managing Preeclampsia: Highlighting Maternal Health Disparities
Authors: Dickerson Alexis G. , Joseph Christiana A. , Kashfi Khosrow
Published: February 2025

Preeclampsia (PE) is a major cause of maternal mortality and morbidity, affecting 3–6% of pregnancies worldwide and ranking among the top six causes of maternal deaths in the U.S. PE typically develops after 20 weeks of gestation and is characterized by new-onset hypertension and/or end-organ dysfunction, with or without proteinuria. Current management strategies for PE emphasize early diagnosis, blood pressure control, and timely delivery. For prevention, low-dose aspirin (81 mg/day) is recommended for high-risk women between 12 and 28 weeks of gestation. Magnesium sulfate is also advised to prevent seizures in preeclamptic women at risk of eclampsia. Emerging management approaches include antiangiogenic therapies, hypoxia-inducible factor suppression, statins, and supplementation with CoQ10, nitric oxide, and hydrogen sulfide donors. Black women are at particularly high risk for PE, potentially due to higher rates of hypertension and cholesterol, compounded by healthcare disparities and possible genetic factors, such as the APOL1 gene. This review explores current and emerging strategies for managing PE and addresses the underlying causes of health disparities, offering potential solutions to improve outcomes.
Indirect Effects of Executive Planning Functions and Affectivity on the Work Ethic of University Students
Authors: Vergara-Morales Jorge , Del Valle Milenko , Lepe Nancy
Published: February 2025

Work ethic represents a key factor for professional performance, as it guides behaviors relevant to the transparency and quality of work practices. Although a wide field of study has been developed, less research has analyzed the indirect influence of affective and cognitive factors involved in work ethic. Therefore, this study aims to assess the indirect effects of executive planning functions and affectivity on the work ethic of Chilean university students. The purpose is to test the following hypotheses: (1) executive planning functions have an indirect effect on work ethic through moral reasoning; (2) affectivity has an indirect effect on work ethic through moral intuition. The participants were a total of 582 Chilean university students from a university in the north (38.5%), one in the center (35.9%), and one in the southern area (25.6%). The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, structural equation models (SEMs), and SEM mediation analysis. The results show the direct effect of moral reasoning (β = 0.47, p < .01) and moral intuition (β = 0.85, p < .01) on work ethic. Furthermore, they support the indirect effect of executive planning functions (β = 0.06, p < .01) and affectivity (β = 0.46, p < .01) on work ethic. The model explains 98% of the variance of work ethic, highlighting the critical roles of moral reasoning and moral intuition as psychological mechanisms that intervene and drive the effect of cognitive and affective factors. Theoretical and practical implications for teaching–learning processes in higher education are discussed.
Impact of Gentle Touch Stimulation Combined with Advanced Sensory Stimulation in Patients in a Minimally Conscious State: A Quasi-Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Bonanno Mirjam , Gangemi Antonio , Fabio Rosa Angela , Tramontano Marco , Maggio Maria Grazia , Impellizzeri Federica , Manuli Alfredo , Tripoli Daniele , Quartarone Angelo , De Luca Rosaria , Calabrò Rocco Salvatore
Published: February 2025

Touch, particularly affective touch mediated by C-tactile fibers, plays a key role in emotional regulation and therapeutic interventions. However, tactile stimulation is underutilized in sensory stimulation (SS) protocols for brain injury patients, despite its potential to enhance consciousness and promote recovery through neural and autonomic regulation. Tools like the Neurowave enable advanced multisensory stimulation, including audio-visual and emotional inputs, but lack tactile components. Integrating gentle touch stimulation with such systems could further enhance neuroplasticity, improve heart rate regulation, and support recovery in patients with disorders of consciousness. In this study, twenty patients affected by minimally conscious state (MCS) were divided into two groups: an experimental group (EG n.10) and a control group (CG n.10). Both groups underwent standard neurorehabilitation, including conventional physiotherapy and speech therapy. The key difference was in the type of sensory stimulation. The EG received advanced sensory stimulation with the Neurowave system (which provides audio-visual and emotional sensory stimulation) in addition to gentle touch stimulation. The CG received conventional sensory stimulation without the Neurowave and neutral gentle touch stimulation. Each patient was evaluated by a multidisciplinary rehabilitation team, using clinical scales such as coma recovery scale—revised (CSR-R), level of cognitive functioning (LCF), before (T0) and after (T1) treatment. Additionally, heart rate (HR) and neurophysiological outcomes (P300) were also recorded for both groups (EG and CG). The MANOVA model revealed a significant interaction effect between group and phase on P300 latency (F (1, 18) = 10.23, p < 0.001, η2 = 0.09), indicating that the intervention involving gentle touch stimulation significantly influenced the P300 latency in the EG. The findings of this study contribute to our understanding of the therapeutic potential of emotional multisensory stimulation, which also includes gentle touch stimulation, in MCS rehabilitation. By demonstrating significant effects on both neurophysiological and functional measures, our results support the integration of tactile interventions into comprehensive neurorehabilitation programs.
Anticoagulation with Nafamostat Mesilate During Impella Support: A Case Report
Authors: Nakamura Makiko , Imamura Teruhiko , Hida Yuki , Izumida Toshihide , Nakagaito Masaki , Nagura Saori , Doi Toshio , Kinugawa Koichiro
Published: February 2025

Achieving an optimal balance between thrombosis prevention and bleeding risk during temporary mechanical circulatory support remains a significant clinical challenge. Effective anticoagulation management that ensures device functionality while minimizing major bleeding events should have the potential to improve short-term outcomes. Here, we report the successful use of nafamostat mesilate (NM) as an anticoagulant during Impella support in two male patients with advanced heart failure and cardiogenic shock. NM therapy resulted in improved thrombocytopenia without the occurrence of major bleeding or thrombotic events. However, NM-related hyponatremia was observed, highlighting the need for careful monitoring during its administration and further cumulative evidence to validate optimal NM therapy during temporary mechanical circulatory supports.