bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Virtual reality‐based therapy after anterior cruciate ligament injury effectively reduces pain and improves knee function, movement patterns, and dynamic balance: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Cortés‐Pérez Irene , Desdentado‐Guillem Jose María , Camacho‐Delgado María Soledad , del Rocío Ibancos‐Losada María , Obrero‐Gaitán Esteban , Lomas‐Vega Rafael 
Published: September 2024

AbstractPurposeVirtual reality‐based therapy (VRBT) may be an effective physical therapy complement employed in the rehabilitation of patients with anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury. This study aims to assess the effectiveness of VRBT in improving pain, knee function, strength, proprioception, flexion range of motion (ROM), and dynamic balance after ACL injury.MethodsWe conducted this systematic review with meta‐analysis following PRISMA criteria. Since inception to June 2024, we searched in PubMed Medline, WOS, SCOPUS, CINAHL and PEDro without publication date and language restrictions. Randomised controlled trials (RCTs), comprising only patients with ACL injury, that assess the effectiveness of VRBT compared to classical interventions on the outcomes of interest were included. PEDro scale was employed to analyze the methodological quality of the RCTs included. Cohen's standardised mean difference (SMD) and its 95% confidence interval (95% CI) was used to calculate the pooled effect in meta‐analyses.ResultsNine RCTs, providing data from 330 participants (26.96 ± 3.11 years, 85% males) were included. The RCTs included showed good methodological quality (PEDro scale = 6.88 points), being, performance and detection biases, the most common biases reported. Meta‐analyses showed that VRBT was more effective than classical interventions in reducing pain (SMD = −1.15; 95% CI −1.85 to −0.45; p = 0.001; I2 = 0%), and increasing knee function (SMD = 1.71; 95% CI 0.93 to 2.5; p < 0.001; I2 = 0%), strength (SMD = 0.82; 95% CI 0.4–1.23; p < 0.001; I2 = 0%) and flexion ROM (SMD = 0.7; 95% CI 0.37–1.01; p < 0.001; I2 = 0%). Additionally, VRBT improved postero‐medial (SMD = 0.46; 95% CI 0.01–0.9; p = 0.045; I2 = 15.1%) and postero‐lateral CoP excursion (SMD = 0.75; 95% CI 0.3–1.21; p = 0.001; I2 = 0%), being effective in improving dynamic balance.ConclusionVRBT is an effective physical therapy complement to be included in the ACL's rehabilitation programmes due to reduces pain and increases knee function, strength, ROM and dynamic balance after ACL injury.Level of evidenceLevel II evidence.
Mass Spectrometry Structural Proteomics Enabled by Limited Proteolysis and Cross‐Linking
Authors: Lu Haiyan , Zhu Zexin , Fields Lauren , Zhang Hua , Li Lingjun 
Published: September 2024

ABSTRACTThe exploration of protein structure and function stands at the forefront of life science and represents an ever‐expanding focus in the development of proteomics. As mass spectrometry (MS) offers readout of protein conformational changes at both the protein and peptide levels, MS‐based structural proteomics is making significant strides in the realms of structural and molecular biology, complementing traditional structural biology techniques. This review focuses on two powerful MS‐based techniques for peptide‐level readout, namely limited proteolysis‐mass spectrometry (LiP‐MS) and cross‐linking mass spectrometry (XL‐MS). First, we discuss the principles, features, and different workflows of these two methods. Subsequently, we delve into the bioinformatics strategies and software tools used for interpreting data associated with these protein conformation readouts and how the data can be integrated with other computational tools. Furthermore, we provide a comprehensive summary of the noteworthy applications of LiP‐MS and XL‐MS in diverse areas including neurodegenerative diseases, interactome studies, membrane proteins, and artificial intelligence‐based structural analysis. Finally, we discuss the factors that modulate protein conformational changes. We also highlight the remaining challenges in understanding the intricacies of protein conformational changes by LiP‐MS and XL‐MS technologies.
Applications of plant‐derived extracellular vesicles in medicine
Authors: Zhu Yawen , Zhao Junqi , Ding Haoran , Qiu Mengdi , Xue Lingling , Ge Dongxue , Wen Gaolin , Ren Haozhen , Li Peng , Wang Jinglin 
Published: September 2024

AbstractPlant‐derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) are promising therapeutic agents owing to their natural abundance, accessibility, and unique biological properties. This review provides a comprehensive exploration of the therapeutic potential of plant‐derived EVs and emphasizes their anti‐inflammatory, antimicrobial, and tumor‐inhibitory effects. Here, we discussed the advancements in isolation and purification techniques, such as ultracentrifugation and size‐exclusion chromatography, which are critical for maintaining the functional integrity of these nanovesicles. Next, we investigated the diverse administration routes of EVs and carefully weighed their respective advantages and challenges related to bioavailability and patient compliance. Moreover, we elucidated the multifaceted mechanisms of action of plant‐derived EVs, including their roles in anti‐inflammation, antioxidation, antitumor activity, and modulation of gut microbiota. We also discussed the impact of EVs on specific diseases such as cancer and inflammatory bowel disease, highlighting the importance of addressing current challenges related to production scalability, regulatory compliance, and immunogenicity. Finally, we proposed future research directions for optimizing EV extraction and developing targeted delivery systems. Through these efforts, we envision the seamless integration of plant‐derived EVs into mainstream medicine, offering safe and potent therapeutic alternatives across various medical disciplines.
Navigating legal responsibilities in politically connected firms: Insights into the influence of directors' and officers' insurance on litigation risk
Authors: Zhang Xiaojuan , Guo Yizhen , Chi Tiancheng 
Published: September 2024

AbstractThis study aims to investigate how directors' and officers' (D&O) liability insurance, legal responsibilities, and firm political connections collectively influence corporate litigation risk. D&O insurance is common, but its effectiveness in limiting litigation risk in diverse legal and political circumstances is questionable. The study employs a quantitative research approach, utilizing regression analysis and moderation techniques. Data are collected from a diverse sample of 411 individuals comprising directors, legal experts, government regulators, public company staff, and insurance providers. Regression models explore the relationships between D&O insurance, legal responsibilities, political connections, and corporate litigation risk. The findings provide practical insights for stakeholders in corporate governance, informing strategies to enhance risk management and compliance frameworks. This study contributes to the existing literature by empirically examining the comprehensive influence of D&O insurance, legal responsibilities, and political connections on corporate litigation risk. It integrates multiple variables and moderating effects to offer a nuanced understanding of corporate governance dynamics. Strategic adoption of D&O insurance can effectively mitigate litigation risks associated with legal responsibilities, although caution is warranted regarding the exacerbating effects of firm political connections. By understanding these dynamics, firms can proactively enhance their governance practices and adapt to regulatory changes, thereby improving overall corporate resilience and sustainability.
Identification of rare missense variants in the BSN gene co‐segregating with chronic otitis media in a consanguineous Pakistani family
Authors: Yousaf Ayesha , Yousaf Sairah , Shabbir Asra S. , Yousaf Rafia , Riazuddin Saima , Shaikh Rehan S. , Santos‐Cortez Regie Lyn P. , Ahmed Zubair M. 
Published: September 2024

AbstractBackgroundOtitis media (OM) is the most frequent and complex middle ear condition with multifactorial etiology including genetic predisposition. OM depicts a variable clinical spectrum, leading to speech, developmental delay, and hearing loss. Here, we report the clinical and genetic findings of chronic suppurative otitis media (CSOM) segregating in a six‐generation consanguineous Pakistani family PKOM08.MethodsClinical evaluations, including audio and tympanometry, were conducted to assess OM manifestation and their impact on hearing function. Exome sequencing was performed to identify potential genetic variants underlying CSOM in the study participants.ResultsClinical evaluation of participating individuals revealed varying degrees of disease severity, with mild to moderate hearing loss. All the affected individuals had CSOM with no other apparent comorbidity. Whole exome followed by Sanger sequencing revealed two rare heterozygous variants [c.1867C>T, p.(Pro623Ser) and c.11015G>A, p.(Arg3672Gln)] of BSN gene in most of the affected individuals of family PKOM08. BSN encodes a scaffold bassoon protein involved in synaptic vesicle trafficking. The identified variants replaced evolutionary conserved amino acid residues in the encoded protein and are predicted to impact the ionic interactions in the secondary structure.ConclusionA deep intronic variant of BSN has been previously implicated in the etiology of childhood ear infections. Our study further supports a link between BSN‐impaired function and ear infection and CSOM in children.
Flap‐Based Lower Extremity Reconstruction in the Elderly—Is It Safe and Does Age Impact Ambulation?
Authors: Manasyan Artur , Stanton Eloise W. , Wolfe Erin , Carey Joseph N. , Daar David A. 
Published: September 2024

ABSTRACTIntroductionLower extremity (LE) reconstruction in the elderly population presents a multifaceted challenge, primarily due to age‐related degenerative changes, comorbidities, and functional decline. Elderly individuals often encounter conditions such as osteoarthritis, osteoporosis, and cardiovascular and peripheral artery disease (PAD), which can severely compromise the structural integrity and function of the lower limbs. As such, we aim to assess postoperative complications and functional recovery following LE reconstruction in elderly patients.MethodsPatients ≥ 18 years who underwent post‐traumatic LE reconstruction with flap reconstruction at a Level 1 trauma center between 2007 and 2022 were included. Patient demographics, flap/wound characteristics, complications, and ambulation for the elderly (≥ 60 years old) and the control (< 60 years old) cohorts were recorded. The primary outcome was final ambulation status, modeled with logistic regression. Secondary outcomes included postoperative complications.ResultsThe mean ages of the control (n = 374) and elderly (n = 49) groups were 37.4 ± 12.6 and 65.8 ± 5.1 years, respectively. Elderly patients more frequently required amputation after flap surgery (p = 0.002). There was no significant difference between the two cohorts in preoperative ambulation status (p = 0.053). Postoperatively, 22.4% of elderly patients were independently ambulatory at final follow‐up, compared to 49.5% of patients < 60. Of the elderly, 14.3% could ambulate with an assistance device (cane, walker, etc.), compared to 26.5% in the control group. A wheelchair was required for 46.9% of elderly patients, significantly higher than the 22.7% of those < 60 years of age (p < 0.001). Multivariate regression confirmed an association between older age and nonambulatory final status (p = 0.033).ConclusionLE reconstruction can likely be performed safely in patients 60 years of age or older. However, older age is independently associated with significantly worse postoperative ambulation. Preoperative assessment, including gait and muscle strength, and early initiation of postoperative rehabilitation can potentially improve ambulation in elderly individuals undergoing LE reconstruction.
Preoperative Vascular Imaging in Lower Extremity Free Flap Reconstruction: Comparison Between Imaging Modalities
Authors: Ahn Leah , Christensen Joani M. , Fruge Seth , Meulendijks Mara Z. , Hoftiezer Yannick Albert J. , Wong Frankie K. , Tuano Krystle R. , Valerio Ian L. , Eberlin Kyle R. 
Published: September 2024

ABSTRACTBackgroundAdequate vascular anatomy and perfusion status are essential for successful lower extremity free tissue transfer. Computed tomography angiography (CTA) is widely available, minimally invasive, and enables visualization of soft tissues and bones. Angiography permits temporal evaluation of flow, identifies potential needs for concurrent endovascular interventions, and enhances visibility in the setting of hardware. Despite widespread availability of these imaging modalities, no standardized algorithm for preoperative imaging prior to lower extremity free flap reconstruction exists.MethodsCurrent Procedural Terminology (CPT) codes identified patients undergoing free flap reconstruction of the lower extremity over an 18‐year period (2002–2020). Electronic medical records were reviewed for patient, treatment, and imaging characteristics, and pre‐ and post‐imaging laboratory values. Outcomes included imaging findings and related complications and surgical outcomes.ResultsIn total, 405 patients were identified, with 59% (n = 238) undergoing preoperative imaging with angiography, 10% (n = 42) with CTA, 7.2% (n = 29) with both imaging modalities, and 24% (n = 96) with neither performed. Forty percent (122 of 309) of patients who underwent preoperative imaging had less than 3‐vessel runoff. Four patients developed contrast‐induced nephropathy (CIN) after angiography only and one after having both CTA and angiography. Vessel runoff on CTA and angiography demonstrated moderate correlation.ConclusionMost patients undergoing lower extremity free tissue transfer underwent preoperative imaging with angiography and/or CTA, 40% of which had less than 3‐vessel runoff. Both angiography and CTA had low complication rates, with no statistically significant risk factors identified. Specifically, the incidence of CIN was not found to be significant using either modality. We discuss our institutional algorithm to aid in decision‐making for preoperative imaging prior to lower extremity free flap reconstruction. Specifically, we recommend angiography for patients with peripheral vascular disease, internal hardware, or distal defects secondary to trauma.
A general model of microstructure evolution including phase transformation in elasto‐plastic materials
Authors: Dinkelacker‐Steinhoff Sarah , Hackl Klaus 
Published: September 2024

AbstractThe evolution of microstructures can be observed in various engineering and natural materials, such as special alloys, silica glasses or soils. These macroscopic and microscopic effects are often controlled by thermal and chemical changes or extern forces. In addition, several phases are usually involved in these processes, whose energy potentials result in a non‐convex total energy. A theory is introduced that can be applied to a wide range of elasto‐plastic materials with kinematic hardening. In order to obtain a general model, a relaxed free energy in small strain theory is defined using variational principles for inelastic materials. This energy includes the dissipation of the substance as so‐called dissipation distance to facilitate a time‐stepped incremental representation. Furthermore, the phase volume fractions are contained in the weighted sum of the individual energies and are expressed here using Young measures. In the centre of the model, transition rates with underlying ordinary differential equations (ODEs) are calculated, which allow access to the phase evolution of the system. The initial results and the behaviour of this theory are explained using numerical simulations created with the programming language Julia.
A regularized microplane damage material model in the implicit material point method
Authors: Oropeza Navarro Osvaldo Andres , Chihadeh Ahmad , Platen Jakob , Kaliske Michael 
Published: September 2024

AbstractThe work at hand introduces a regularized microplane damage formulation into the Material Point Method (MPM) using an implicit time integration scheme. A material characterization at finite deformations to describe rock‐like materials is applied, which is characterized by strain‐softening behavior. The nonlinear response of the material is captured by a damage formulation within the microplane framework. Regularization of the model is achieved by an implicit gradient enhancement. The model is implemented into an in‐house MPM code, and its capabilities are shown by a numerical example.
A pilot study of race, ethnic, gender, and parental education level differences on the Naglieri General Ability Tests: Verbal, Nonverbal, and Quantitative
Authors: Selvamenan Mathangi , Paolozza Angelina , Solomon Joanna , Naglieri Jack A. 
Published: September 2024

AbstractThis study was conducted to examine the relationships between general intelligence test scores and race, ethnicity, gender, and parental education using the Naglieri General Ability Tests: Verbal, Nonverbal and Quantitative (Naglieri & Brulles, & Lansdowne, 2021) for three samples that closely match the U.S. population. Few differences were found on the preliminary versions of the Verbal (Naglieri & Brulles, 2021; N = 2482), Quantitative (Naglieri & Lansdowne, 2021; N = 2369), and Nonverbal (Naglieri, 2021; N = 2383) Naglieri General Ability Tests. These initial findings suggest that this approach to measuring general ability may ultimately have utility for equitable identification of students from diverse backgrounds for possible inclusion in gifted educational programs.
How do personal resources and homeroom teacher job demands influence teachers’ professional identity? A perspective based on the job demands‐resources model
Authors: Zhou Peiling , Zhou Yue , Li Tingting , Zhao Ran , Sun Wenwen 
Published: September 2024

AbstractProfessional identity is essential for a qualified teacher; however, the imbalance between job resources and demands is a serious impediment to promoting teachers’ professional identity. Given that personal job resources (i.e., teachers’ socioemotional competence and psychological capital) and challenging job demands (homeroom/non‐homeroom teachers) are distinctive—but understudied—job characteristics, this study examines their role in fostering teachers’ professional identity, based on the Job Demands‐Resources (JD‐R) model. Data from 432 secondary school teachers in Henan Province, China were collected using the Chinese versions of the Teacher Socioemotional Competence Scale, Psychological Capital Scale, and Teacher Professional Identity Scale. The results showed that teachers’ socioemotional competence positively predicted their professional identity. The moderating mediator analysis showed that the mediating role of psychological capital and the moderating role of being a homeroom or non‐homeroom teacher contributed immensely to teachers’ professional identity. The identification of this moderated mediation model broadens our understanding of the JD‐R model by demonstrating the interplay between personal job resources and challenging job demands. This study also emphasizes the imperative for optimizing the balance between “demands” and “resources” to enhance teachers’ professional identity, and proposes effective interventions.
Dose modification in enzalutamide and abiraterone plus prednisolone for castration‐resistant prostate cancer: A subanalysis from the ENABLE study for PCa
Authors: Tanaka Nobumichi , Izumi Kouji , Nakai Yasushi , Shima Takashi , Kato Yuki , Mita Koji , Kamiyama Manabu , Inoue Shogo , Hoshi Seiji , Okamura Takehiko , Yoshio Yuko , Enokida Hideki , Chikazawa Ippei , Kawai Noriyasu , Hashimoto Kohei , Fukagai Takashi , Shigehara Kazuyoshi , Takahara Shizuko , Mizokami Atsushi 
Published: September 2024

AbstractBackgroundA head‐to‐head comparison between enzalutamide (ENZ) and abiraterone plus prednisolone (ABI) revealed similar survival benefits for castration‐resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) in the ENABLE study for PCa. Considering that a dose reduction of ENZ and ABI has demonstrated sufficient inhibitory ability of androgen receptor (AR) signaling, we analyzed the efficacy of modified doses of these agents in the ENABLE study for PCa.MethodsThis investigator‐initiated, multicenter, randomized controlled trial that was conducted in Japan analyzed the prespecified survival endpoints, prostate‐specific antigen (PSA) response rate ( ≥50% decline from baseline), and safety profile in patients treated with modified doses (ENZ ≤ 120 mg/day, ABI ≤ 750 mg/day) compared with those treated with a standard dose (ENZ 160 mg/day, ABI 1000 mg/day) as a starting dose.ResultsIn total, 92 patients in each arm were treated and analyzed; 16 patients were treated with a modified dose in both the ENZ and ABI arms, respectively. Moreover, 32 patients treated with modified doses showed a significantly better time to PSA progression (TTPP) and overall survival (OS) compared with the 152 patients treated with a standard dose (HR 0.47, 95%CI 0.27–0.83, p = 0.0379, and HR 0.35, 95%CI 0.19–0.63, p = 0.0162). Despite a significantly longer TTPP in the modified ABI group than in the standard ABI group (HR 0.29, 95%CI 0.14–0.62, p = 0.0248), no significant difference was observed in the TTPP between the modified and standard ENZ groups (p = 0.5366). Furthermore, similar adverse event rates and grades were observed in each treatment dose group.ConclusionsThe modified doses of ABI showed better TTPP than the standard dose of ABI and may be a potential treatment option for CRPC patients; however, its mechanism is still unclear, although its ability to suppress AR signaling is equivalent to that of a standard dose.
The High‐Affinity Chymotrypsin Inhibitor Eglin C Poorly Inhibits Human Chymotrypsin‐Like Protease: Gln192 and Lys218 Are Key Determinants
Authors: Németh Bálint Zoltán , Kiss Bence , Sahin‐Tóth Miklós , Magyar Csaba , Pál Gábor 
Published: September 2024

ABSTRACTEglin C, a small protein from the medicinal leech, has been long considered a general high‐affinity inhibitor of chymotrypsins and elastases. Here, we demonstrate that eglin C inhibits human chymotrypsin‐like protease (CTRL) weaker by several orders of magnitude than other chymotrypsins. In order to identify the underlying structural aspects of this unique deviation, we performed comparative molecular dynamics simulations on experimental and AlphaFold model structures of bovine CTRA and human CTRL. Our results indicate that in CTRL, the primary determinants of the observed weak inhibition are amino‐acid positions 192 and 218 (using conventional chymotrypsin numbering), which participate in shaping the S1 substrate‐binding pocket and thereby affect the stability of the protease‐inhibitor complexes.