bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparing the Employability of Public and Private Employees: The Role of PSM and Red Tape in Linking Employability and Work Engagement
Authors: Borst Rick T. , Blom Rutger , Vandenabeele Wouter
Published: February 2025

Although the employability of employees has increasingly become an issue for both public and private employers, the employability in especially public organizations is under pressure due to its relatively aging workforce compared to the private sector. Moreover, scholars argue that employability outcomes such as work engagement are particularly under pressure among public-sector employees relative to private-sector employees because public-sector employees have to deal with red tape and experience possible hindrance of their public service motivation (PSM). At the same time, these propositions are understudied, and scholars call for more contextualized research comparing the public and private sectors. This study therefore compares the moderating effects of PSM and red tape in the relationships between perceived employability and work engagement across the public and private sectors. Based on comparative structural equation modeling on samples of Dutch government employees ( N = 9,427) and private-sector employees ( N = 2,057), it is concluded that PSM undermines the relation between perceived internal and external employability and work engagement of both public- and private-sector employees, respectively. Moreover, red tape is less undermining for public-sector employees in the relationships between respectively perceived internal and external employability and work engagement than for private-sector employees. Based on the results, contributions are discussed.
Effect of Menstrual Hygiene Module on awareness, perception, and practice of menstrual hygiene among visually challenged females in selected residential schools of Uttarakhand: A quasi-experimental study
Authors: Yadav Manjeet , Kuppuswamy Rajarajeswari , Kodi S Malar
Published: February 2025

Vision disability ranks among the top 10 disabilities in people under 18 and older. Their needs are often neglected, placing them at potential risk for a wide array of problems. The right to dignified menstrual hygiene is often violated. This study aimed to assess the effect of the Menstrual Hygiene Module (MHM) on the awareness, perception, and practice of menstrual hygiene among visually challenged females in selected residential schools of Uttarakhand. A two-group pretest and posttest study was conducted among 75 visually challenged females in both the experimental and control groups, who experienced menstruation and had not attained menopause through a total enumerative sampling technique. Participants were assessed for awareness, perception, and practices for menstrual hygiene using a self-structured questionnaire followed by administration of the MHM to participants in the experimental group. The module comprised health teaching, tactile diagrams on the female reproductive system taken from As We Grow Up: A Tactile Book on Menstrual Hygiene Management, published by the Water Supply and Sanitation Collaborative Council (UN organization), prototypes of menstrual products, and three-dimensional (3D) models on the female reproductive system. The intervention was followed by a posttest. The mean age of participants in the experimental and control groups was found to be 14.05 ± 2.27 and 14.48 ± 2.39 years, respectively. In the experimental group, the mean awareness score increased from 7.41 ± 1.11 to 7.92 ± 1.07 (paired t-value: 6.40), whereas the perception score increased from 22.168 ± 2.35 to 32.088 ± 2.75 (paired t-value: 33.33), tested at the .05 level of significance. The majority of the practices remain unchanged even after the intervention such as a way of recognizing the onset of menstruation in both the groups. The study concluded that there is a great need for empowering visually challenged females to achieve dignified menstrual hygiene. The module developed as part of the study can be further used to dispel information on menstrual hygiene among visually challenged females in different areas.
Reflections on Holixec Education: A Macromarketing Response to Contemporary Educational Challenges?
Authors: Reppel Alex , Beninger Stefanie
Published: February 2025

This commentary reflects on the ‘holixec’ education framework proposed by Batat (2024) in relation to macromarketing scholarship, especially the wider marketing pedagogy literature. We suggest that holixec education codifies rather than revolutionizes current practice and is applicable to work within existing educational structures (rather than critiquing, challenging, or transforming them), thus resonating with the developmental school of macromarketing through (rather than the critical school). Further, ‘holixec’ education remains largely grounded at the individual level without concrete guidance to address systemic complexities. On a broader level, we identify what we see as perhaps the most obvious challenge ‘holixec’ education and similar models must overcome—that they are of little practical use without empirical scrutiny, while such scrutiny can go against the ethos of holistic education. This challenge leaves instructors with little guidance to navigate and manage the messiness that arises from systemic complexities.
Machine learning techniques for the comprehensive analysis of the continuous casting processes: Slab defects
Authors: Zong Nanfu , Jing Tao , Gebelin Jean-Christophe
Published: February 2025

Continuous casting route is the most widely produced process in the world every year, accounting for around 95% of global steel production. Due to the various inevitable defects, including cracks, segregations, inclusions and breakout involved in the production process, tranditional control and monitoring approaches are pushed to their limits. Over the past decade, the increasing global competition has combined metals engineering with digital technology and artificial intelligence skills, to help the manufacturing industries to reap the benefits of “big data.” By targeting critical machine learning (ML) techniques, the casting industry leaders rapidly take advantage of the latest discoveries in manufacturing processes through digital twinning to enable defect-free casting. This study offers an analytical overview of ML methods applied to the examination of the continuous casting procedure. This paper examines the current research on ML in steel continuous casting, organizing the findings into categories, which aids in identification of typical application cases and approaches. This comprehensive analysis concludes with the elaboration of challenges, potential solutions, and a future outlook for further cutting-edge research and development to unleash the potential of future ML techniques and maintain casting industry's reputation.
Presenteeism during public health crises: Examining why organisational sickness preventative practices work differently for men and women
Authors: Luksyte Aleksandra , Yeo Gillian , Avery Derek R. , Howard Emika
Published: February 2025

People often come to work sick – a prevalent behaviour even during public health crises. Integrating trait activation and social role theories, we examine how organisational sickness preventative practices affect workplace anxiety, approach and avoidance motivation for presenteeism, in turn, contributing to male–female differences in presenteeism. We conducted a time-separated study. The results ( N = 86 working adults who completed all four waves of the data) supported our moderated mediation model in that organisational sickness preventative practices were beneficial for reducing avoidance motivation to engage in presenteeism for women, but less so for men. These practices were similarly beneficial for reducing workplace anxiety for women, which explained their lower presenteeism compared to men. We performed a cross-sectional replication using only employees who worked in the traditional office at Time 3 ( N = 56) and obtained similar findings. Our results offer steps on how to manage presenteeism.

JEL Classification: M12, M14
Reflections-on-Action: Using Critical Disability Studies to Reconceptualize the Net Work of Social Work Students in Interprofessional Simulations
Authors: Guadrón Melissa
Published: February 2025

This article demonstrates how an analysis of the net work of medical social work students in an interprofessional Standardized Patient Program (i.e., healthcare simulation) reveals the productive potential of a Critical Disability Studies orientation to writing studies and workplace research. Standardized Patient Programs were created as a method for uniformly assessing healthcare students’ interpersonal interactions with patients. In practice, they evolved to additionally standardize the professional attitudes and behaviors of students. Structured around three emergent claims, this article uses novel and established technical-rhetorical concepts to unpack how social work students comprehend and navigate issues of power, collaboration, and knowledge exchange within a Standardized Patient Program. And when these claims are further analyzed through a Critical Disability Studies lens, they reveal how disability-related disruptions can constructively challenge medicalized stances toward disability as well as understandings of collaborative labor, workplace/simulation-based writing, and professional discourse.
On printability of barium titanate reinforced PVDF nano ink for smart and flexible sensors: Rheological and concentration view point
Authors: Kumar Sudhir , Duvedi Ravinder Kumar , Sharma Sandeep Kumar , Batish Ajay
Published: February 2025

In this research, an effort has been made to explore the feasibility of nanoparticle reinforcement of barium titanate (BTO) in PVDF/Dimethylformamide (DMF) polymeric solution for DIW application. This study also explores the feasibility of 2D printing a box pattern for developed polymeric composite ink using dispenser-based phenomenon on the platform of Microplotter proto printer which is capable of printing high viscosity inks up to 450cp. The study also explores the fluidic response of developed ink to control its printability. The results suggest that 5 wt% PVDF/DMF solution works without any difficulty in nozzle ejection. The density and viscosity of the composite ink increase with increased BTO content. The highest recorded values for density and viscosity in the PVDF/DMF solution matrix reinforced with 28 wt% BTO are 1275.6 kg/m3 and 57.6 cP, respectively. The surface tension observed to be decreased above a 24.5 wt% reinforcement, attributed to the dominant hydrophilic nature of BTO at higher concentrations. Additionally, a feasibility study on 2D printing of the developed inks indicates success, as the inks were effectively printed using a dispenser-based technique. Thus, a higher BTO-reinforced PVDF/DMF matrix can be used in future studies for better piezoelectric yield which is crucial for sensor applications.
Achieving synergistic viscosity and mechanical performance in Poly(aryl ether ketone) copolymers through bisphenol A-phenolphthalein side group ratio modulation
Authors: Tong Chenglong , Zhang Xingdi , Zhao Jiyong , Nie Heran , Wang Zhichao , Wang Zhipeng
Published: February 2025

Poly (aryl ether ketone) (PAEK) plays a critical role in the production and application of special engineering plastics. However, the traditional PAEK has some limitations in processing, such as high melt viscosity and high energy consumption. This study successfully synthesized a series of PAEK copolymers with bisphenol A and phenolphthalein side groups through nucleophilic polycondensation, aiming to reduce the high energy consumption associated with material processing. By adjusting the ratio of bisphenol A to phenolphthalein side groups, this research explores their influence on the properties of the copolymers. Comprehensive characterization using various testing methods revealed that increasing the bisphenol A content led to a decrease in heat deflection temperature and glass transition temperature. Although mechanical performance showed a slight decline, it remained comparable to other advanced engineering materials. Notably, tuning the ratio of bisphenol A to phenolphthalein significantly improved the melt rheological properties of the copolymers, reducing melt viscosity, enhancing polymer chain flexibility, decreasing crosslinking tendencies, broadening the processing window, and lowering energy consumption. This study provides a novel strategy for tailoring the performance of PAEK copolymers, offering substantial potential for further research and application. These copolymers are good candidates for next-generation high-performance engineering plastics.
A non-contact calibration method of workpiece coordinate system for aero-engine blade-robotic grinding system
Authors: Chen Ziyang , Cai Zhenhua , Chen Tingyang , Deng Chunming , Niu Shaopeng , Wang Chao , Qu Dongbo , Ma Zhenhua , Hu Yu
Published: February 2025

Mounting error of the blade is an important factor that affects the grinding quality in aero-engine blade-robotic grinding system. In order to compensate for the mounting error, it is necessary to calibrate the pose of the workpiece coordinate system. However, most of the current workpiece calibration methods cannot meet the high accuracy requirements in the scenario of aero-engine blade grinding. Therefore, this paper proposes a new non-contact calibration method of workpiece coordinate system using scanner measurement, to solve the workpiece calibration problem in aero-engine blade-robotic grinding system. The method first calibrates the scanner based on the criterion sphere hand-eye calibration method and employs the Random Sample Consensus (RANSAC) algorithm to ensure the accuracy of the fitted sphere center coordinates. Then, the point cloud registration algorithms are used to align the scanned point cloud of the blade with the model point cloud. Finally, the space transformation matrix between the workpiece coordinate system and the base coordinate system is obtained through matrix calculation, achieving the accurate calibration of the workpiece coordinate system. The experimental validation of the proposed calibration method in this paper can maintain tiny and acceptable errors for grinding applications. Specifically, the hand-eye calibration error is less than 0.2 mm, and the point cloud registration error is less than 0.06 mm. Moreover, the calibrated blade exhibits excellent machining consistency after grinding, which can perfectly meet the requirements of actual machining accuracy.
Research on voice print recognition of loose state of transmission tower bolts based on MFCC feature vector
Authors: He Pengjie , Lu Ziqiang , Liu Huiwei , Li Jie , Lu Ziying
Published: February 2025

In order to monitor the loose state of transmission tower bolts, this study discusses the application of voice print recognition technology in this field. By collecting the sound signals under different loosening states of the transmission tower bolts and using Mel cepstrum coefficient (MFCC) feature extraction method, the sound signals are converted into feature vectors for analysis, and the loosening state of the bolts is effectively recognized. The experimental results show that the characteristic value obtained in the bolt loosening test is 4.3766, which is higher than the MFCC characteristic critical value 4.0, indicating that the bolt loosening problem exists. At the same time, in the bolt fastening test, the result obtained is 3.8364, which is lower than the MFCC characteristic critical value 4.0, indicating that the bolt is not loosened. It can be seen that whether the bolt loosening test or the bolt tightening test, the method based on MFCC feature vector has a considerable recognition effect, and can judge the bolt state through the eigenvalue method. This study provides a new non-contact technique for real-time monitoring of bolt loosening state of transmission tower, and provides important guarantee for the safe operation of transmission lines. This technology has a broad development prospect in practical application, and provides an important reference and guidance for further research and practice in related fields.
System Failures and the Realities of “Reform”: A Practical Understanding of Decision-Making in Child Welfare
Authors: Thurston Holly , Boyd Reiko , Price Wolf Jennifer , Freisthler Bridget
Published: February 2025

This article is temporarily under embargo.
Impact of office light environment on mental health interventions for employees: An investigative analysis
Authors: Jiao Dian , Zhao Mingzhe , Tang Jian , Dazhuang Lu
Published: February 2025

Background

The increasing prevalence of work-related stress and mental health issues has become a global concern, particularly in developing countries. The light environment in office spaces, known to influence both visual and non-visual aspects of health, is a critical factor that needs further exploration for its potential in enhancing employees’ psychological well-being.

Objective

The aim of our study was to investigate the role of light environments in office spaces in influencing the psychological well-being of employees.

Methods

The study was conducted in 2 office locations in Shanghai and Dalian, China and analyzed data from 235 employees. Data on the effects of the light environment were self-reported by the participants, and the psychological well-being of the employees was measured on 2 dimensions (differences in color perception, and differences in perception between natural dynamic lighting and artificial static lighting). The effects of hue and lightness on employee psychology, and the effects of natural versus conventional static lighting on employee mood were analyzed.

Results

The findings revealed that the hue and luminance of office spaces significantly affect employees’ psychological satisfaction and emotional states. Specifically, natural dynamic lighting, which aligns with the natural photoperiod, was found to effectively reduce negative emotions such as anger and depression, offering a promising intervention for improving mental health in the workplace.

Conclusions

The light environment in office settings plays a significant role in mitigating mental health issues among employees. While the study confirms the positive effects of dynamic lighting on mental health, it also highlights the need for further interdisciplinary research to fully understand the complex mechanisms involved.
The effect of humanistic behavior skills in nursing practice on caregiving competence
Authors: Kaplan Mehmet , Kaplan Feride , Çelik Hanife
Published: February 2025

Background

The need for care of patients is increasing day by day as societies age. In parallel with the increase in the need for care, the adequacy of the care provided and the factors affecting it gain importance.

Objective

This study aims to determine the effect of nurses’ humanistic behavior skills on caregiving competence and the factors affecting it.

Methods

The study sample consisted of 445 nurses working in a state hospital and selected by random sampling method. The study data were collected between January and April 2023. Face-to-face interview method was used to collect the data. The questionnaire application was conducted in a period of approximately 15–20 min. The nurse information form including demographic characteristics, the humanistic behavior skills in nursing practice scale (HPAN) and the caregiving competence scale were used to collect the data.

Results

The nurses’ humanistic behavior skills affected their caregiving competence by 0.082. HPAN and age had an effect size of 0.084 on caregiving competence; HPAN, age and gender had an effect size of 0.124 in the triad model; HPAN, age, gender and average overtime worked in a month had an effect size of 0.136 in the quad model.

Conclusions

It was determined that as the humanistic behavior skills of the nurses increased, their caregiving competence also improved. The humanistic behavioral skills of the nurses affect care giving competence at a rate of 8.2%. In addition, age, gender, overtime work and working years also affect care giving competence.
Facing aging: Face Shadow
Authors: Kang Yanbin
Published: February 2025

Face Shadow is a contemporary dance performance presented by the Zhiren Experimental Theater that utilizes masks and body rhythms as its primary expressive tools to explore the theme of aging. After its stunning debut in Guangzhou on 17 March 2023, the production has been successful in subsequent stagings in Chongqing and Shanghai, with the latest iteration titled Face Shadow 3.0 premiering in Zhengzhou on 16 March 2024.
Early Experience With the Nexus Aortic Arch Endograft for Endovascular Treatment of Complex Aortic Arch Pathologies Beyond Standard Indications
Authors: Bisdas Theodosios , Zambas Neophytos , Zertalis Marios , Kanellopoulos George , Roubelakis Apostolos , Georghiou Georgios P. , Pappas Stylianos , Theodoridis Panagiotis , Dimopoulos Christos , Iatrou Nikolaos , Charalambous Nikolas
Published: February 2025

Background:

The Nexus stent graft offers a minimally-invasive option for treating aortic arch aneurysms (AArA). Despite strict instructions for use (IFU), it is sometimes applied in complex anatomies for patients who are surgically inoperable or unsuitable for other devices. This study evaluates outcomes in patients treated outside the IFU, providing real-world insights.

Methods:

We analyzed patients treated with the Nexus endograft outside its IFU between January 2022 and August 2024. The primary endpoint was the occurrence of major adverse cardiovascular and cerebral events (MACCE) such as death, stroke, or myocardial infarction. Secondary endpoints included the reasons for outside-IFU implantation, technical success, any aortic-related adverse events and postoperative endoleaks.

Results:

Thirteen patients underwent endovascular treatment for AArA outside IFU. Five (38.5%) had a post-type A dissection, 5 had de novo AArA (38.5%), and 3 (23%) lacked a landing zone in zones 1 to 3 of the aortic arch for thoracoabdominal aortic repair. Seven patients (54%) received the Nexus One device, while 6 (46%) received the Nexus Duo endograft. No perioperative MACCE occurred. Mean follow-up was 17 ± 12 months, with a 79% survival rate at 1 year. Primary reasons for outside IFU use included an inner ascending length <30 mm and a descending aortic diameter >40 mm in 46% of patients accordingly. Technical success was achieved in all cases. A type Ic endoleak (7%) due to aneurysmatic degeneration of the brachiocephalic artery was identified at 2 years. No further aortic-related adverse events were reported.

Conclusions:

The Nexus endograft demonstrated a favorable safety profile and promising clinical outcomes at 1 year, even in patients treated outside IFU criteria, with high technical success and no evidence of stroke. Reassessment of certain IFU criteria could enhance the device’s applicability.

Clinical Impact

Our findings highlight the potential for expanding the clinical use of the Nexus stent-graft beyond its current IFU, offering a safe and effective alternative for complex aortic arch anatomies. With high technical success and no perioperative cerebrovascular events, these results suggest that carefully selected patients who are otherwise ineligible for surgery may still benefit from endovascular repair. This study provides real-world evidence supporting the reconsideration of IFU criteria, potentially broadening treatment options. The innovation lies in demonstrating that even outside IFU conditions, the Nexus endograft maintains a strong safety profile, paving the way for more inclusive patient selection.
Continuous Glucose Monitoring in Hospitalized Adults With Diabetic Ketoacidosis: A Prospective Open-Label Pilot Study
Authors: Bogun Magdalena M. , Wang Chunhui , Kurlansky Paul A. , Bedeir Nur , Umpierrez Guillermo E.
Published: February 2025

Background:

Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) devices are increasingly used in critical and non-critical care hospital units. The efficacy of CGM in assessing glucose control in adults with diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is unknown.

Methods:

This single-center pilot study compared glycemic control by real-time CGM (Dexcom G6), capillary point-of-care (POC), and basic metabolic panel (BMP) during intravenous (IV) insulin treatment and after the resolution of DKA. We compared the mean absolute relative difference (MARD), median absolute relative difference (ARD) glucose values, and Diabetes Technology Society (DTS) Error Grid analyses.

Results:

We recruited 52 patients (49 ± 19 years, admission glucose: 503 ± 239.4 mg/dL) with type 1 diabetes (n = 24) and type 2 diabetes (n = 28). Compared with POC testing, the MARD was 17.4% ± 13.2%, and the median ARD was 14.2% (interquartile range [IQR]: 6.4, 28) during the initial IV insulin period and 19.8% ± 18.7% and 14.3% (7, 26.2) after DKA resolution. The DTS Error Grid analysis showed that 100% of values during the IV insulin treatment and 95% after the DKA resolution were in zones A+B. Compared with BMP glucose values, the MARD and median ARD were 18.5% ± 19.1% and 12.2% (5.4, 23.8) during the IV insulin treatment and 22.5% ± 24.7% and 15.1% (6.6, 27.6) after DKA resolution.

Conclusion:

This is the first report on the use of real-time CGM in adults with DKA. Our study indicates that CGM technology is a reliable tool for hospital use during acute insulin treatment and after the resolution of DKA. Future multicentre randomized studies are needed to determine the benefits of real-time CGM in facilitating diabetes care in hospitalized patients with hyperglycemic crises.
Surgical NEC-associated cerebellar underdevelopment and PDA: Call for close monitoring and action
Authors: Garg Parvesh Mohan
Published: February 2025

Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is a systemic inflammatory disease of very low birth weight infants and is associated with brain injury and poor neurodevelopmental outcomes. The cerebellar injury is seen in one third of cases with surgical cases. The association between patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) and necrotizing enterocolitis, cerebral and gut hemodynamics in preterm infants is well documented. The cerebellum is at the high risk of underdevelopment and injury in preterm infants with surgical NEC and PDA. The combined exposure of NEC and PDA most likely affect the normal cerebellar development further due to inflammatory and hypoperfusion insults. There is a need to develop the targeted monitoring and therapeutic approach for cerebellum in preterm infants with surgical NEC and PDA.
Chronic Benign Tubular Albuminuria From Compound Heterozygous Variants in CUBN: A Case Report
Authors: Pietrobon Adam , Elliott Mark D.
Published: February 2025

Rationale:

Albuminuria is a commonly used parameter for predicting decline in kidney filtration function. Cubilin, encoded by CUBN, is a critical protein involved in protein reabsorption in the proximal tubule. Mutations in CUBN lead to Imerslund-Gräsbeck syndrome (IGS), a disorder characterized by vitamin B12 deficiency (and consequences related to that) with or without albuminuria. Recent evidence suggests that C-terminal variants in CUBN may lead to albuminuria without other features of IGS.

Presenting concerns of the patient:

Here, we report a case of a 52-year-old male with chronic, albumin-predominant, subnephrotic range proteinuria since his teenage years, but preserved estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR).

Interventions:

Neither angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibition nor angiotensin Type II (AT-II) receptor blockade reduced his degree of albuminuria.

Diagnosis:

Genetic testing identified 3 distinct pathogenic variants in CUBN that were confirmed by segregation analysis to be a compound heterozygous mode of inheritance. All variants were downstream of the intrinsic factor-vitamin B12 binding domain of cubilin. The patient had normal vitamin B12 levels and did not exhibit any features of IGS.

Outcomes:

Kidney biopsy was not pursued for this patient as diagnostic clarification was achieved by non-invasive genetic testing alone.

Novel findings:

This case highlights several important lessons. First, not all albuminuria is made equal, and forms of tubular albuminuria can exist without compromising kidney filtration function. Second, identifying genetic forms of tubular albuminuria is key to avoiding ineffective interventions (eg, ACE inhibition, AT-II receptor blockade, sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 [SGLT2] inhibition) and unnecessary invasive procedures (eg, kidney biopsy). Third, the location of CUBN variants dictates phenotypic consequences, with C-terminal variants leading to albuminuria without vitamin B12 deficiency.
Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on patients affected by endometriosis: A questionnaire-based cross-sectional online survey
Authors: Saponara Stefania , Ciebiera Michal , Vitale Salvatore Giovanni , Agus Mirian , Piselli Andrea , D’Alterio Maurizio Nicola , Feduniw Stepan , Angioni Stefano
Published: February 2025

Introduction:

The COVID-19 pandemic has substantially impacted the management of chronic conditions, particularly endometriosis. This study aims to analyze the effects of the pandemic on the quality of life among women with endometriosis under the care of an academic referral center in Italy.

Methods:

Conducted from June to October 2020, this observational study utilized an online survey to assess various health dimensions. The participants included women with a confirmed diagnosis of endometriosis whose clinic appointments were cancelled, and new ones were difficult to schedule due to COVID-19 pandemic restrictions. The online questionnaire comprised 117 questions designed to evaluate chronic pelvic pain, quality of life, and psychological impacts using validated scales such as SF-12, HADS, EHP-5, and PSQI.

Results:

A total of 105 participants completed the online questionnaire. It was found that pandemic-related disruptions in healthcare services exacerbated symptoms of endometriosis, increased pain levels, and heightened psychological distress among participants. Specifically, 23.8% of patients reported increased pain due to delays in medical consultations and treatments caused by the pandemic. Results indicated significant correlations between higher levels of anxiety, depression, and deteriorated physical and mental health. The analysis revealed that pandemic-related stress and disruptions in routine care were significant predictors of worsened symptoms and overall health status in patients with endometriosis.

Conclusion:

The study underscores the need for integrated care approaches that address both the physical and psychosocial aspects of endometriosis, especially during healthcare crises. Enhanced support and resources are essential to mitigate the impact of such disruptions on chronic disease management and improve the quality of life for those affected.
Public Health Entrepreneurs Wanted: Integrating the Entrepreneurial Spirit in the MPH Curriculum
Authors: Verwij-Wood Sarah A. , Kruger Jessica S.
Published: February 2025

The public health domain is faced with many challenges that require unique approaches that foster innovation and creativity. One strategy to increase the effectiveness and reach of public health programs is to infuse social entrepreneurship into public health education. Social entrepreneurship, characterized by its mission to create social value and pursue innovative solutions, offers a distinct approach to problem-solving within the public health domain. While social entrepreneurship traditionally emphasizes generating social impact over monetary wealth, its application within public health remains relatively uncharted. This project explores non-profit social entrepreneurship strategies and their integration into public health education to meet the Applied Practice Experience (APE) requirements set by the Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH). This project focuses on the transformation of a community crowdfunding event, Buffalo SOUP, into a public health-oriented organization. By aligning the event with environmental health and sustainability education, the initiative addressed various Master of Public Health (MPH) competencies, including population-based intervention development, assessing community needs, and stakeholder engagement.
Respiratory support in patients with Down syndrome: a systematic review
Authors: Ruggeri Paolo , Manti Sara , Li Pomi Alessandra , Lo Bello Federica , Morana Giorgio , Profazio Claudia , Bushra Mina , Esquinas Antonio
Published: February 2025

Background

The population with Down syndrome (DS) makes up a significant portion of patients using short- and long-term noninvasive ventilation (NIV). However, limited data are available concerning the use and outcomes for patients with DS compared with other populations. We systematically reviewed articles providing indications, benefits, adherence and limits of long-term NIV use in the paediatric and adult population with DS.

Methods

A systematic review of the literature for articles published between January 2013 and November 2023 was conducted using a protocol registered atPROSPERO(CRD42023488712).

Results

In total, 18 studies focusing on the use of noninvasive respiratory support in patients with DS were included in this review. Obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome (OSAS), OSAS post-adenotonsillectomy, hypoventilation and nocturnal hypercapnia were the most common indications for NIV support in patients with DS. However, respiratory anatomical malformation and intellectual disabilities can affect adherence to NIV use. High-flow nasal cannula is an alternative to other noninvasive respiratory support.

Conclusion

Comprehensive and updated consensus compliant with international standards for clinical guidelines is required to significantly improve clinical practice quality, promote evidence-based recommendations and provide tailored interventions in patients with DS.
Role of HNF6 in liver homeostasis and pathophysiology
Authors: Tian Miaomiao , Gao Weizhen , Ma Shujun , Cao Huiling , Zhang Yu , An Fuxiang , Qi Jianni , Yang Zhen
Published: February 2025

Background

Hepatocyte nuclear factor 6 (HNF6), a member of the HNF family, contains single cleft and homologous domains, which form a DNA-binding region that targets the promoter regions of genes that bind to liver-specific genes and regulate their expression. Furthermore, HNF6 is highly expressed as an HNF in the liver.

Main body

HNF6 regulates not only the formation of the liver but also the proliferation and differentiation of hepatocytes. Additionally, HNF6 controls the migration and adhesion of hepatocellular carcinoma cells and plays a significant role in liver metabolism. Its expression is affected by epigenetic modifications such as DNA methylation, post-translational modifications, and microRNAs. Recently, HNF6 was also found to be expressed in tissues, such as the pancreas, intestine, and lungs, where it controls their formation by regulating cell differentiation and influences their pathophysiological processes via various mechanisms.

Conclusion

In this review, we highlight advances in HNF6-related research concerning liver diseases and provide a summary of its potential mechanisms of action as a transcription factor in regulating downstream genes and epigenetic modifications. We also highlight gaps in liver disease research and provide future research directions for the application of HNF6 and its downstream molecules as attractive targets in the treatment of liver diseases.
Regional hippocampal thinning and gyrification abnormalities and associated cognition in children with prenatal alcohol exposure
Authors: Gimbel Blake A. , Wozniak Jeffrey R. , Mueller Bryon A. , Tuominen Kent A. , Ernst Abigail M. , Anthony Mary E. , de Water Erik ,   the CIFASD, Roediger Donovan J.
Published: February 2025

Background

Prenatal alcohol exposure (PAE) impacts hippocampal structure and function, contributing to deficits in memory and decision-making in affected individuals. Here, we evaluate hippocampal anomalies in children with PAE and an unexposed comparison group using advanced MRI methods that characterize hippocampal curvature and thickness.

Methods

Participants, ages 8 to 16 years, included children with PAE (n = 48) and an unexposed comparison group (n = 46) who underwent a dysmorphology exam, neuropsychological assessment, and an MRI scan. Height, weight, head circumference, and dysmorphic facial features were evaluated. Of those with PAE, 4.2% had fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS), 22.9% had partial FAS, and 72.9% had alcohol-related neurodevelopmental disorder. Neuropsychological testing included measures of intelligence and memory functioning. T1-weighted anatomical data were processed with the Hippunfold pipeline, which “unfolds” the complex hippocampal structure onto a template surface and provides measures of thickness and gyrification/curvature at each vertex. Permutation Analysis of Linear Models (PALM) was used to test for group differences (PAE vs. comparison) in hippocampal thickness and gyrification at each vertex and also to assess correlations with cognitive functioning.

Results

There were significant regional differences in thickness and gyrification across bilateral hippocampi, with the PAE group showing substantially thinner tissue and less curvature than the comparison group, especially in CA1 and subiculum regions. For those with PAE, thinner subicular tissue (bilateral) was associated with lower IQ. Also in the PAE group, lower episodic memory performance was associated with thinness in the right hippocampus, especially in the subiculum region. There were no significant regional hippocampal patterns that were associated with cognitive functioning for individuals in the unexposed comparison group.

Conclusions

We used a novel MRI method to evaluate hippocampal structure in children with PAE and an unexposed comparison group. The data suggest that PAE disrupts hippocampal development, impacting both the early-stage folding of the structure and its ultimate thickness. The data also demonstrate that these developmental anomalies have functional consequences in terms of core memory functions as well as global intellectual functioning in children with PAE.
Clinical forms of 5 cases of circumcised penile cancer in immunocompetent subjects in Abidjan (Ivory Coast)
Authors: Yao Evrard Kouame , Yao Abraham Hognou , Yeo Donafologo Daouda , Adebayo Tawakaltu , Tuo Michel , Zouan Freddy Junior , Coulibaly Noel
Published: February 2025

Context

Malignant tumours of the penis are rare. Their incidence varies around the world and increases with age. Treatment is essentially surgical. Surgery may be conservative or radical.

We report the anatomoclinical aspects of 5 cases of penile cancer observed in our department.

Case presentations

A 44-year-old patient with a circumcised penis, diagnosed with a fusosarcoma (a rare type of sarcoma) of the penis. Three patients (ages 61, 59, and 70) were diagnosed with squamous cell carcinoma, the most common type of penile cancer. These patients also had circumcised penises. The last case was a metastatic squamous cell carcinoma of the penis in a 68-year-old patient. All patients were immunocompetent and had a circumcised penis. They refused surgery in any form.

Conclusion

The clinical aspects of penile cancer are polymorphous and misleading. Any bulging or indurated lesions on the penis should be biopsied.
Weak genetic divergence and signals of adaptation obscured by high gene flow in an economically important aquaculture species
Authors: Calla Bernarda , Song Jingwei , Thompson Neil
Published: February 2025

Background

The genetic diversity of a population defines its ability to adapt to episodic and fluctuating environmental changes. For species of agricultural value, available genetic diversity also determines their breeding potential and remains fundamental to the development of practices that maintain health and productivity. In this study, we used whole-genome resequencing to investigate genetic diversity within and between naturalized and captively reared populations of Pacific oysters from the US Pacific coast. The analyses included individuals from preserved samples dating to 1998 and 2004, two contemporary naturalized populations, and one domesticated population.

Results

Despite high overall heterozygosity, there was extremely low but significant genetic divergence between populations, indicative of high gene flow and/or little variability from founding events. The captive population, which was reared for over 25 years was the most genetically distinct population and exhibited reduced nucleotide diversity, attributable to inbreeding. Individuals from populations that were separated both geographically and temporally did not show detectable genetic differences, illustrating the consequences of human intervention in the form translocation of animals between farms, hatcheries and natural settings. Fifty-nine significant F
ST
outlier sites were identified, the majority of which were present in high proportions of the captive population individuals, and which are possibly associated with domestication.

Conclusion

Pacific oysters in the US Pacific coast harbor high genetic heterozygosity which obscures weak population structure. Differences between these Pacific oyster populations could be leveraged for breeding and might be a source of adaptation to new environments.
Phenotypic and genotypic screening of multidrug resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae isolated from ready to eat street food in Tanta, Egypt
Authors: Bedair Hadeer M. , Emara Mohamed , Ali Shima Mahmoud , Samir Tamer M. , Khalil Mahmoud A.F.
Published: February 2025

Background

Ready-To-Eat-Street-Foods (RTESF) have food safety concerns, since they are prepared with less-structured food safety guidelines in small and roadside outlets. Klebsiella pneumoniae has become a dangerous foodborne-pathogen worldwide due to its virulence and resistance profile.

Objective

This study aimed at evaluating the potential burden of antibiotic-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae contaminating RTESF and assessing the microbiological quality of RTESF in Egypt.

Methods

A total of 242 RTESF (green salad) samples was collected, different media were used for isolation of different bacterial species. Klebsiella pneumoniae isolates were identified biochemically and by Gram and capsular staining then isolates were assessed for antimicrobial resistance phenotypically. The ability of biofilm formation was assessed using crystal violet and molecular characterization of ESBLs and virulence genes was done using PCR.

Results

A total of 77/242(31.8%) of the recovered isolates was identified as Klebsiella pneumoniae and the resistance percentages were as follow: cefuroxime and cephradine (100%, 77/77), amoxicillin-clavulanic acid (98.7%, 76/77), while (27.3%, 21/77) of the isolates were MDR. Biofilm assay revealed that (31/77, 41/77 and 5/77) isolates were strong, moderate, and weak biofilm-producers, respectively. Among ESBLs-encoding-genes, bla
SHV was the most prevalent (71.4%) while bla
TEM and bla
CTX−M−2were equally-present (55.8%).The most prevalent virulence genes were mrkD (92.2%) followed by K2 (63.3%).

Conclusion

The contaminated RTESF could be a reservoir for Klebsiella pneumoniae, therefore much care must be taken during preparation and consumption to avoid dissemination of MDR Klebsiella pneumoniae leading to subsequent treatment challenges. Our finding indicating that RTESF, if not prepared under hygienic conditions, could be a source of serious Klebsiella pneumoniae infection.
Neural progenitor cell-derived exosomes in ischemia/reperfusion injury in cardiomyoblasts
Authors: Arvola Oiva , Stigzelius Virpi , Ampuja Minna , Kivelä Riikka
Published: February 2025

The physiologic relationship between the brain and heart is emerging as a novel therapeutic target for clinical intervention for acute myocardial infarction. In the adult human brain, vestigial neuronal progenitor stem cells contribute to neuronal repair and recovery following cerebral ischemic injury, an effect modulated by secreted exosomes. Ischemia conditioned neuronal cell derived supernatant and experimental stroke has been shown to be injurious to the heart. However, whether unconditioned neuronal progenitor cell derived-exosomes can instead protect myocardium represents a profound research gap. We investigated the effects of unconditioned neural stem cell derived exosomes as post-injury treatment for cardiomyoblasts from three neuronal culture conditions; adherent cultures, neurosphere cultures and bioreactor cultures. Small extracellular vesicles were enriched with serial ultracentrifugation, validated via nanoparticle tracking analysis, transmission electron microscopy and Western blot analysis prior to utilization as post-injury treatment for H9c2 cardiomyoblasts following oxygen and glucose deprivation. LDH assay was used to assess viability and Seahorse XF high-resolution respirometry analyzer to investigate post-injury cardiomyocyte bioenergetics. We found no evidence that unconditioned neural stem cell derived exosomes are cardiotoxic nor cardioprotective to H9c2 cardiomyoblasts following ischemia-reperfusion injury. Based on our findings, utilizing unconditioned neural stem cell derived exosomes as post-injury treatment for other organs should not have adverse effects to the damaged cardiac cells.
Genome-wide association analysis and KASP markers development for protein quality traits in winter wheat
Authors: Tian Yousheng , Liu Pengpeng , Kong Dezhen , Nie Yingbin , Xu Hongjun , Han Xinnian , Sang Wei , Li Weihua
Published: February 2025

Background

Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) is a significant cereal crop that plays a vital role in global food production. To expedite the breeding of wheat cultivars with high protein quality, it is necessary to genetically analyze the traits related to quality. A genome-wide association study (GWAS) was conducted to identify the genomic regions responsible for protein quality traits in winter wheat.

Results

Six protein quality traits were evaluated across two locations and two years for a total of 341 wheat accessions. Utilizing the wheat 40 K SNP array, GWAS identified 97 significantly stable SNPs at 43 loci for five out of six protein quality traits using a linear mixed model. The 43 loci distribution was four for grain protein content, two for flour protein content, one for wet gluten content, four for gluten index, and thirty-two for Zeleny sedimentation value. The most significant associations were identified on chromosomes 1 A, 1B, and 1D. Haplotype analysis of loci associated with the gluten index in the 412–416 Mb interval on chromosome 1D identified three blocks. Accessions with superior haplotypes showed a significantly higher gluten index than those with inferior haplotypes. Six KASP markers were successfully developed for the gluten index, while five KASP markers were developed for the Zeleny sedimentation value. Additionally, eight candidate genes were identified that may affect protein accumulation during grain development.

Conclusions

Our study identified 97 SNPs significantly associated with protein quality traits; developed 6 KASP markers for gluten index, and 5 KASP markers for Zeleny sedimentation values; screened 8 candidate genes that may be related to protein quality during grain development. Thise research will offer valuable insights for wheat breeding programs in China and globally.