bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
A rapid method for the preparation of an in vitro osteoporosis model of calf vertebrae: histological and biomechanical study
Authors: Shi Anli , Liu Yijie , Ma Qiang , Li Jiaxin , Fan Jiawang , Ge Zhaohui 
Published: February 2025

BackgroundIn vitro biomechanical testing is crucial for the preclinical assessment of novel implant designs. Given the constraints of limited supply and high costs associated with human specimens, calf spines are frequently employed as surrogates for human spines in both in vivo and in vitro biomechanical studies.MethodsThis study selected 60 spinal vertebrae from calves aged between 12 and 18 weeks. The specimens were randomly assigned to two treatment groups, A and B, each comprising 30 specimens. Group A served as the control without decalcification, while Group B underwent decalcification using an 18.3% ethylene diamine tetraacetic acid solution. The impact of decalcification was assessed through histological, imaging, and biomechanical analyses.FindingsDecalcification took approximately 2 months, resulting in osteoporotic vertebrae with a bone mineral density reduction of approximately 50.89% compared to pre-decalcification levels. The bone microstructure was significantly altered, characterized by a decrease in trabecular thickness and number and an increase in trabecular separation. Additionally, the trabecular bone pattern factor (TBPf) and Structure Model Index (SMI) increased. The modulus of elasticity, yield stress, and ultimate stress of the vertebral bodies were all reduced in correlation with the decrease in bone mineral density, demonstrating a strong correlation between these parameters.InterpretationThe data from this study indicate that the decalcification method is effective and capable of rapidly establishing an osteoporotic model suitable for biomechanical testing of clinical devices. This method offers the benefits of ease of operation, reliability, and a controllable degree of osteoporosis.
The landscape of cell regulatory and communication networks in the human dental follicle
Authors: Liu Jia-Ning , Tian Jiong-Yi , Liu Lu , Cao Yuan , Lei Xiao , Zhang Xiao-Hui , Zhang Zi-Qi , He Jun-Xi , Zheng Chen-Xi , Ma Chao , Bai Sheng-Feng , Sui Bing-Dong , Jin Fang , Chen Ji 
Published: February 2025

IntroductionThe dental follicle localizes the surrounding enamel organ and dental papilla of the developing tooth germ during the embryonic stage. It can differentiate and develop to form the periodontal ligament, cementum, and alveolar bone tissues. Postnatally, the dental follicle gradually degenerates, but some parts of the dental follicle remain around the impacted tooth. However, the specific cellular components and the intricate regulatory mechanisms governing the postnatal development and biological function of the dental follicle have not been completely understood.MethodsWe analyzed dental follicles with single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) to reveal their cellular constitution molecular signatures by cell cycle analysis, scenic analysis, gene enrichment analysis, and cell communication analysis.ResultsTen cell clusters were identified with differential characteristics, among which immune and vessel-related cells, as well as a stem cell population, were revealed as the main cell types. Gene regulatory networks (GRNs) were established and defined four regulon modules underlying dental tissue development and microenvironmental regulation, including vascular and immune responses. Cell–cell communication analysis unraveled crosstalk between vascular and immune cell components in orchestrating dental follicle biological activities, potentially based on COLLAGAN-CD44 ligand–receptor pairs, as well as ANGPTL1-ITGA/ITGB ligand–receptor pairs.ConclusionWe establish a landscape of cell regulatory and communication networks in the human dental follicle, providing mechanistic insights into the cellular regulation and interactions in the complex dental follicle tissue microenvironment.
Development of item banks to assess financial hardship in cancer survivors using item response theory
Authors: Jones Salene M. W. , Yi Jean C. , Henrikson Nora B. , Panattoni Laura , Shankaran Veena 
Published: February 2025

BackgroundFinancial hardship is common after a cancer diagnosis. Current financial hardship measures have advanced the field, but assessing the dimensions of financial hardship remains challenging. We created item banks to assess four financial hardship dimensions using item response theory (IRT). IRT-based item banks can be tailored to each context and used in computerized adaptive testing (CAT) to reduce participant burden.MethodsCancer survivors (n = 459) were recruited from a survivorship program and online survey panel to complete an online or paper survey. Four item banks were developed based on previous studies, expert feedback, and patient interviews: financial coping: 41 items, financial consequences: 21 items, financial depression: 15 items, and financial worry: 21 items. We used the two-parameter logistic and graded response models for analysis.ResultsThe IRT model fit well for all four item banks: financial coping root mean square error of approximation (RMSEA) = 0.06, financial consequences RMSEA = 0.03; financial depression RMSEA = 0.05; and financial worry RMSEA = 0.03. The accuracy parameters ranged from 1.01 to 6.53, indicating good reliability for each item. The severity parameters showed each item bank assessed financial hardship across two to three standard deviations, supporting content validity. Short forms were developed for financial consequences, depression, and worry.ConclusionThe item banks can be used to create brief screening measures and, using CAT, efficiently screen for each dimension of financial hardship while minimizing burden. Future research is required to assess the clinical utility of using the item banks to screen for financial hardship.
Cisplatin resistance alters ovarian cancer spheroid formation and impacts peritoneal invasion
Authors: Powell Lydia C. , Quintela Marcos , James David W. , Onyido Emenike , Howard David , Edwards Kadie , Turney Jordan L. , Morgan Charlotte R. , Worthington Jenny , Williams Nicole , Dulebo Alexander , Haschke Heiko , Gonzalez Deyarina , Conlan R. Steven , Francis Lewis W. 
Published: February 2025

Epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) is an aggressive and lethal gynaecologic malignancy due to late diagnosis and acquired resistance to chemotherapeutic drugs, such as cisplatin. EOC metastasis commonly occurs through the extensive dissemination of multicellular aggregates, formed of cells originally shed from the primary ovarian tumour, within the peritoneal cavity. However, little is known about how cisplatin resistance (CR) alters the biophysical properties of EOC multicellular aggregates and how this impacts metastasis. In this interdisciplinary study, light and atomic force microscopy was used, alongside quantitative gene and protein expression analysis, to reveal distinct differences in the biophysical properties of CR spheroids, which correlated with altered protein expression of plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1) and Tenascin-C. CR SKOV3 spheroids (IC50: 25.5 µM) had a significantly greater area and perimeter and were less spherical, with a reduced Young’s modulus, (p &lt; 0.01) compared to parental (P) SKOV3 spheroids (IC50: 5.4 µM). Gene expression arrays revealed upregulation of genes associated with cell adhesion, extracellular matrix (ECM) and epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in CR spheroids, while immunofluorescence assays demonstrated increased protein expression of PAI-1 (p &lt; 0.05; implicated in cell adhesion) and reduced protein expression of Tenascin-C (p &lt; 0.01; implicated in elasticity) in CR spheroids compared to P spheroids. Furthermore, the CR spheroids demonstrated altered interactions with a surface that mimics the peritoneal lining post mesothelial clearance (Matrigel). CR spheroids were significantly less adhesive with reduced disaggregation on Matrigel surfaces, compared to P spheroids (p &lt; 0.05), while CR cells were more invasive compared to P cells. The combined characterisation of the biophysical and biological roles of EOC multicellular aggregates in drug resistance and metastasis highlight key proteins which could be responsible for altered metastatic progression that may occur in patients that present with cisplatin resistance.
Pediatric bacterial meningitis in southern China: analysis of 838 cases
Authors: Chen Lianfeng , Wu Wen-Lin , Gao Yuanyuan , Li Xiaojing , Yang Sida , Liang Huici , Zheng Kelu , Zhang Yani , Zhu Haixia , Tian Yang , Peng Bingwei , Lin Haisheng , Wang Xiuying , Ning Shuyao , Gan Yinyan , Hou Chi , Liao Yinting , Sheng Huiling , Chen Wen-Xiong 
Published: February 2025

ObjectiveThis work aims to study the clinical features and risk factors of children with bacterial meningitis (BM) in southern China.MethodsClinical data of children with BM between 2012 and 2018 from one national center were analyzed retrospectively.ResultsA total of 838 patients (male/female = 1.8:1) were enrolled, with 90.6% under 1 year old. Common symptoms included fever, seizure, lethargy, vomiting, anorexia, poor feeding, and irritability. Most patients initially exhibited typical cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) changes of BM, including elevated white blood cell count, increased protein levels, and decreased glucose concentration. Some initially atypical cases showed typical changes after about 1 week. Furthermore, 38.7% of the patients had positive bacterial cultures of blood or CSF, with Streptococcus agalactiae, Escherichia coli, and Streptococcus pneumoniae commonly seen. Moreover, 92.0% of the patients were graded five Glasgow outcome scale (GOS) points at discharge. Differences in symptoms, pathogens, CSF results, brain MRI, and GOS points were observed across age groups (neonate [29 days, 12 months) and aged ≥12 months). Fatality rate was 1.9%, and 10.7% of survivors had neurological sequelae. Recurrent BM was rare (1.6%) but notable in patients with CSF fistula or immunodeficiency. Risk factors for intensive care unit admission, brain parenchymal involvement, subdural effusion, and hearing impairment were identified.ConclusionMost pediatric BM patients in southern China were under 1 year old, with more distribution in male patients and some age-related differences in clinical features and outcomes. Recurrent BM is rare but more likely in patients with conditions such as CSF fistula or immunodeficiency. Most patients have favorable outcomes, with a low fatality rate and around 10% of the survivors experiencing neurological sequelae. Several clinical risk factors were identified.
Risk factors for fluorouracil-induced cardiotoxicity in patients with gastrointestinal tumor
Authors: Wu Yuting , Lv Chen , Li Jindong , Ma Ying , Zhu Xiaoli 
Published: February 2025

ObjectiveTo explore the risk factors for cardiotoxicity in patients with gastrointestinal (GI) tumors treated with fluorouracil drugs.MethodsThis study included patients with GI tumors who received fluorouracil at our hospital between January 2018 and April 2022. The demographic and clinical characteristics were collected. The risk factors associated with the cardiotoxicity of fluorouracil were explored using multivariable logistic regression.ResultsA total of 300 patients were finally included and divided into the cardiotoxicity (n = 81) and non-cardiotoxicity groups (n = 219). The occurrence of fluorouracil-induced cardiotoxicity was higher in patients with hypertension, hyperlipidemia, diabetes mellitus, older age, those treated with capecitabine, and combined radiotherapy. The multivariable logistic regression showed that treatment with capecitabine, history of hyperlipidemia, history of diabetes, older age, and combined radiotherapy were independent risk factors for the cardiotoxicity of fluorouracil.ConclusionHyperlipidemia, diabetes, older age, treatment with capecitabine, and adjuvant radiotherapy might be independent risk factors for the cardiotoxicity of fluorouracil in patients with GI tumors.
ONLINE vs. FACE-TO-FACE group coaching to promote teachers mental health: an exploratory field study in German teachers
Authors: Lütke Lanfer Sarah S. , Pfeifer Ruth , Rieder Yannik , Wünsch Alexander , Braeunig Matthias , Lahmann Claas 
Published: February 2025

IntroductionOnline formats provide promising and low-threshold options for mental health coaching. However, research on online mental health interventions compared to traditional face-to-face interventions remains scarce. In the present study, the established prevention tool “Teacher Group-coaching Program” (TGP) was applied in both the original face-to-face setting as well as online. TGP focuses on promoting mental health in teachers by strengthening relational skills using the Balint group technique. This technique roots back to a psychoanalytic approach to explore the emotional aspects of (stress inducing) professional relationships. The current study aimed at comparing the satisfaction with and effectiveness of TGP between both settings.MethodThe sample consisted of 104 teachers who voluntarily chose between face-to-face (n = 51) and online (n = 53) setting. In a pre-posttest design, participants completed questionnaires before and after the intervention. Additionally participant's satisfaction with the program was assessed during and after TGP.ResultsIntervention effects did not differ significantly in terms of mental health, general life satisfaction and emotional distancing between TGP online and face-to-face. In line with previous research, there was a pre-posttest improvement for mental distress and the ability to distance oneself for both groups, which did not differ significantly between face-to-face and online setting. Satisfaction with the program was rated high in both settings, suggesting similar acceptance.DiscussionAlthough, the absence of an effect is not the evidence of equality of the groups, the present study highlights the potential of online admissions of mental health interventions as possible alternatives and additions to traditional face-to-face programs, especially when in-person meetings are not feasible. Specifically, it shows evidence that the Balint group technique can also be applied successfully by trained experts in the online setting.
The effectiveness of teaching methods for preparing teacher education students to teach road safety-related content
Authors: von Beesten Silke , Bresges André 
Published: February 2025

IntroductionRoad traffic accidents account for numerous fatalities worldwide, disproportionately affecting vulnerable groups such as children. To counteract this trend, innovative educational approaches are essential, integrating road safety into school curricula. This study presents a novel teaching model for student teachers specializing in traffic physics. The model employs a holistic and interdisciplinary approach to foster safety awareness during teacher training and to prevent accidents effectively.MethodsThe teaching approach combines theoretical concepts of traffic physics with real-world applications. Schools serve as testing grounds where prospective teachers conduct traffic analyses, identify hazardous zones, and examine physical laws such as traffic density and speed patterns, alongside psychological aspects like behavioral deviations. Qualitative methods, including design thinking and interviews with road users, promote empathy and provide deeper insights into the challenges of road safety. Prototypes, such as optimized traffic signs and technology-driven safety solutions, illustrate practical applications and solutions.ResultsThe active involvement of students in analyzing and resolving traffic issues enhanced their understanding of physical principles. The combination of theory and practice improved hazard perception, risk assessment, and empathy toward road users. The developed prototypes translated learning objectives into actionable safety measures and demonstrated potential for scalable applications. An evaluation tool ensured the objective assessment of learning outcomes, incorporating pedagogical principles and subject-specific standards.DiscussionThe findings emphasize the importance of integrating traffic physics into school education. This context-oriented approach connects learning with students' everyday experiences, fostering cognitive, emotional, and behavioral dimensions of road safety. By involving prospective teachers, the program not only enhances their individual competencies but also contributes to a broader societal impact, improving road safety education. This study outlines an innovative framework for teaching traffic physics that integrates theoretical knowledge with practical application to promote road safety. The model provides a replicable and scalable solution for embedding safety education into school curricula, addressing a critical public health issue effectively.
Emotional competence and problem behavior of left-behind preschool children—the roles of self-regulation and authoritative grandparenting styles
Authors: Luo Lanlan , Jin Shan , Huang Qi 
Published: February 2025

IntroductionWhen parents migrate to other cities for work, their children who are left behind show a high prevalence of behavioral problems, which affect social function. Although previous studies have found that emotional competence significantly predicts problem behavior, little is known about the mechanism(s) through which self-regulation and authoritative grandparenting styles affect emotional competence and problem behavior. This study examined the associations between emotional competence and problem behavior of preschoolers and the mediating role of self-regulation and the moderating role of authoritative grandparenting styles.MethodsParticipants included 449 left-behind preschool children (46.3% girls, mean age = 53.65 months). Grandparents reported their parenting styles with children and teachers reported children’s problem behavior. Children’s emotional competence and self-regulation were completed one-on-one by trained research assistants, following a standard protocol.ResultsThe results revealed that children’s emotional competence is negatively related to problem behavior. Self-regulation partially mediates the effects of emotional competence on problem behavior. Authoritative grandparenting styles moderated the relationship between emotional competence and problem behavior in children, but not the relationship between self-regulation and problem behavior. Significantly, authoritative grandparenting styles enhanced the promoting effect of emotional competence and reduced children’s problem behavior.DiscussionOur findings underscore the importance of intrinsic elements of child self-regulation, as well as adopting more authoritative parenting behaviors in their daily interaction with children, on developing stronger emotional competence and reducing problem behavior in preschoolers.
A case study of education outreach coordinators in universities in Australia and New Zealand
Authors: Mori Akiko 
Published: February 2025

IntroductionThe significance of STEM outreach in high school–university collaboration is well recognized; however, its ecosystem remains underdeveloped. Despite the criticality of Educational Outreach Coordinators (EOCs) in facilitating sustainable partnerships, their role in high school–university collaboration is underexplored. This study focuses on Queensland, Australia, and the North Island of New Zealand to explore the roles of coordinators who belong to universities.MethodSemi-structured interviews were conducted at four universities in February 2024. The results of four interviews involving 10 participants in total were used to determine the positions and roles of coordinators at universities in charge of educational outreach to high schools, as well as their skills.ResultsAt the universities surveyed, professional coordinators were employed for educational outreach to high schools. The thematic analysis suggested that coordinators are proactively and centrally involved in various processes, such as relationship building, project development, oversight, evaluation, and personnel development. They contribute significantly to the success of these projects through strategic and autonomous management.DiscussionThe actual activities of coordinators of high school–university collaboration as university professionals have not been clarified in previous studies. Examples from the surveyed universities suggest that throughout high school–university collaboration, coordinators, in addition to teachers and learners, hold influence and play a vital role in the educational scene. Despite sample limitations, the findings provide a foundation for further exploration and institutional recognition of EOCs globally.
Wetland elevation change following beneficial use of dredged material nourishment
Authors: Harris Brian D. , Ostojic Aleksandra , Tedesco Lenore P. , VanDerSys Keith , Bailey Susan , Shawler Justin L. , Jafari Navid H. , Chasten Monica 
Published: February 2025

IntroductionThe beneficial use of dredged material (BUDM) to nourish degrading wetlands is a direct solution to increase surface elevation to help wetlands keep pace with sea level rise (SLR). While there have been numerous demonstrations of BUDM in wetland environments, there is a limited understanding of the resultant spatial and temporal elevation response due to consolidation of the dredged material and underlying wetland foundation soils.MethodsTo address this, surface elevations were monitored following multiple BUDM nourishments on a back-bay island in New Jersey. Field data was compared to consolidation models to assess the viability of current geotechnical modeling practices. Multispectral surveys were performed to document the revegetation of the nourished island over time.ResultsThe placement of dredged material smothered the vegetation, but the site experienced significant revegetation (low of 22% cover in August 2021 to 52% in September 2023) after three full growing cycles. Approximately two years post BUDM, the nourished area experienced a 0.19 ± 0.11-m increase in elevation. The comparison of elevation immediately after nourishment and two years post- nourishment found that approximately one-third of elevation loss was the result of consolidation of deposited dredged material and the underlying wetland foundation.DiscussionIt was found that a reliance on solely laboratory data can induce a large degree of uncertainty within projected surface elevations. Thus, the implementation of in-situ geotechnical methods is strongly advised when possible. This investigation allowed for a comprehensive examination of geotechnical modeling methods for planning wetland nourishments, including predicting the ability to keep pace with sea level rise. Ultimately, the two BUDM nourishments offset the effects of SLR by approximately 18-28 years.