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Long noncoding RNA Gpr137b-ps mediates 15-PGDH-induced angiogenesis in brain microvasculature following tMCAO in mice

Background Angiogenesis is essential for recovery following ischemic stroke, as brain microvascular endothelial cells (BMVECs) drive vascular repair. 15-hydroxyprostaglandin dehydrogenase (15-PGDH) is a major regulator of endothelial function in some vascular contexts, but it is unknown whether 15-PGDH plays a significant role in angiogenesis following stroke. Notably, based on preliminary bioinformatics prediction of their 3’UTR interaction, we hypothesize that Gpr137b-ps—a pseudogene-derived lncRNA originating from Gpr137b—forms a regulatory link with 15-PGDH to modulate this process (i.e., post-stroke angiogenesis) by regulating 15-PGDH expression, though its specific functional mechanism in this context remains largely unknown. Methods To address this gap, we used mouse middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) model in vivo and BMVEC oxygen-glucose deprivation/reoxygenation (OGD/R) model in vitro. We modulated 15-PGDH via siRNA and Gpr137b-ps via mimics, and assessed angiogenesis using migration, tube formation, and cell-cycle assays, with expression and localization of key molecules verified by standard molecular techniques. Results Both MCAO and OGD/R successfully induced ischemia, with significant upregulation of 15-PGDH and Gpr137b-ps in ischemic tissues and BMVECs (P < 0.05). Despite this concurrent upregulation, 15-PGDH promoted angiogenesis (silencing reduced BMVEC proliferation, migration, and tube formation; P < 0.01), whereas Gpr137b-ps overexpression suppressed 15-PGDH protein levels and inhibited angiogenesis—effects that were rescued by re-expressing 15-PGDH. Conclusion Together, our findings identify Gpr137b-ps/15-PGDH as a key feedback regulatory axis: while both Gpr137b-ps and 15-PGDH are upregulated under ischemia, Gpr137b-ps (a negative regulator of angiogenesis) suppresses 15-PGDH (a pro-angiogenic factor) to repress excessive post-stroke angiogenesis via inhibiting BMVEC proliferation, migration, and cell-cycle progression. The data support an association and partial dependency between this axis and angiogenic processes, highlighting it as a potential therapeutic target (e.g., via inhibiting Gpr137b-ps) for vascular repair after ischemic stroke.

Comparison of AID users and non-users regarding glycemic control and diabetes distress: A mixed-methods study

Aim This study compared glycemic control and diabetes distress in individuals with type 1 diabetes using automated insulin delivery (AID) systems versus those not using such systems, addressing a gap in research on psychosocial outcomes of diabetes technologies. Methods A sequential mixed-methods design was employed to examine differences between AID users and non-users. A total of 169 individuals with type 1 diabetes completed an online survey assessing HbA1c, total diabetes distress, and its subscales. Quantitative results were complemented by 12 follow-up interviews to provide contextual depth. Results The AID group (n = 80) showed significantly lower levels in HbA1c, total diabetes distress, and all subdimensions compared to the non-AID group (n = 89), which showed high CGM use (~94%). The largest effects emerged for Management Distress and Powerlessness . Interview data suggested that AID systems reduce the cognitive and emotional burden of diabetes self-management, which may explain these differences. Contrary to expectations, group differences in Hypoglycemia Distress and Negative Social Perception were smaller. This may be explained by the widespread use of continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) systems in the non-AID group, as participants from both groups reported CGM use to be helpful in reducing hypoglycemic events. Conclusions AID systems are associated with both, improved glycemic outcomes and enhanced psychosocial well-being. These findings underscore the multifaceted benefits of AID systems and highlight the importance of incorporating psychosocial dimensions into the evaluation of diabetes technologies. The mixed-methods approach proved valuable in capturing both quantitative and experiential aspects, providing a more nuanced understanding of patient experiences.

Outcome of distal femoral replacement: Influence of trauma vs. elective indications – A prospective single-center study

Background Distal femoral replacement (DFR) is often the last leg-saving option in advanced femoral bone defects after total knee arthroplasty (TKA) and periprosthetic distal femoral fractures. The aim of this study was to compare the midterm outcome of DFR following periprosthetic fracture or elective TKA revision. Methods This prospective cohort study included 93 DFR patients (49 trauma, 44 elective) from 2010 to 2021. DFR for revision in periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) or tumor resections were not included. Data on demographics, surgical history and reason of failure until DFR, revision rates, satisfaction and pain in mean 5 years postoperatively were collected. Revision incidence was estimated using cumulative incidence functions accounting for death as a competing event, while patient mortality was analysed using Kaplan-Meier estimation. Multivariate Cox regression models were used to assess which parameters were associated with DFR revision. Results Trauma patients had in mean 1.5 (SD 0.9) prior surgeries, while elective patients had 3.1 (SD 1.5), p < 0.001. Satisfaction was higher after trauma (6.9/10) compared to elective DFR (5.4/10). The 1- and 5-year cumulative incidence of revision was 4.1% and 13.9% in trauma patients and 7.0% and 42.0% in elective patients, respectively. The 1- and 5-years mortality rates were 18.7% and 47.5% (trauma) and 6.9% and 16.8% (elective). Female sex was associated with lower, previous constraint TKA, and elective indication were associated with higher revision risk. Conclusion There were higher revision rates but lower mortality in elective DFR compared to trauma patients, mainly caused by pre-existing conditions. Surgeons should take this into consideration during shared decision making for DFR. Registry and the registration number of the study German Clinical Trial Register (DRKS). DRKS-ID: DRKS00036378.

Numerical simulation study on the energy dissipation characteristics of energy-dissipating pile-anchor structures

This study investigates the energy dissipation mechanisms and damage evolution of energy-dissipating and ductile pile-anchor structures under seismic loading through numerical simulation. A three-dimensional finite element model was developed, incorporating the Concrete Damaged Plasticity model for simulating concrete behavior, a microscopic model for Fiber-Reinforced Concrete, specifically Engineered Cementitious Composite, and a static-dynamic boundary conversion method to enhance analysis accuracy. A series of parametric studies were conducted to analyze the effects of pile stiffness, pile-soil interface roughness, and the use of Engineered Cementitious Composite ductile members on the structural response. Key findings indicate that: (1) The Concrete Damaged Plasticity model combined with the 3D microscopic model effectively simulates the dynamic damage characteristics of concrete and Engineered Cementitious Composite. (2) Increasing pile stiffness reduces pile damage but can increase soil plastic deformation beyond an optimal point, highlighting the need for balanced stiffness and deformation capacity. (3) Increasing the pile-soil friction coefficient alters the failure mode and energy dissipation pattern of the pile due to changes in eccentric axial force and additional bending moment. (4) Engineered Cementitious Composite members significantly reduce structural damage and enhance energy dissipation capacity, particularly under strong seismic motions, by maintaining integrity and fully activating damping devices.

Decision tree model to assess consequences and costs associated with therapy administration pathways for patients with HER2+ breast cancer in Italian oncological centers

Background and aims Human Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor 2-positive (HER2+) breast cancer poses significant therapeutic challenges, particularly concerning treatment administration pathways and their associated costs. This study evaluates the managerial and economic impacts of different therapeutic administration scenarios for HER2-positive breast cancer patients, focusing on optimizing hospital workflows, resource utilization, and patient outcomes in Italian oncological centers. Methods A decision tree model was developed to simulate and compare five treatment administration pathways: Standard, Drug-Change, Drug Day, Dedicated Ambulatory, and Optimal Pathway scenarios. The model integrates patient and healthcare professional (HCP) activity and waiting times, infusion chair occupation, and direct and indirect costs. Sensitivity analyses assessed variability in model outcomes. Results Switching from endovenous (EV) to subcutaneous (SC) administration substantially reduced patient throughput times and HCP workloads. The Optimal Pathway scenario yielded the highest resource optimisation, reducing HCP activity time by up to 48 hours, infusional chair occupational time by up to 150 hours, and patients’ total time by up to 753 hours per 100 patients monthly. Cost analyses indicated significant savings in both direct and indirect cost for all the proposed scenarios in comparison to the Standard one. Conclusion The adoption of SC formulations and innovative pathway optimizations enhances treatment organizational efficiency and reduces both direct and indirect costs. These findings underscore the value of tailored approaches to administration based on the structural and organizational characteristics of individual oncology centers, aligning with current Italian healthcare reforms.

EPAS1 knockdown is associated with cell cycle and DNA replication programs and MYC/E2F-related signatures in hemangioma endothelial cells

Infantile hemangioma (IH) is the most common benign tumor of infancy. Hypoxia and activation of hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF) signaling have been proposed to contribute to IH pathogenesis, yet the role of endothelial PAS domain-containing protein 1 ( EPAS1 ), which encodes hypoxia-inducible factor-2α (HIF-2α), in hemangioma endothelial cells (HemECs) remains less well characterized. Here, we investigated HIF-2α in primary HemECs using a pharmacological inhibitor (PT-2399) and shRNA-mediated EPAS1 knockdown under normoxic and hypoxic conditions. In hypoxic cultures, PT-2399 treatment was associated with reduced migration and invasion and with a reduction in junction number in tube formation assays; at the selected dose, PT-2399 did not significantly reduce cell viability. By contrast, EPAS1 knockdown was associated with reduced proliferative capacity and altered cell cycle distribution, together with enrichment of DNA replication/cell cycle-related transcriptional programs, negative enrichment of MYC- and E2F-related gene sets, and directionally consistent protein level changes in selected regulators. EPAS1 knockdown-associated phenotypic trends were broadly similar under normoxia and hypoxia, with no clear evidence that hypoxic stimulation enhanced the magnitude of these changes. In IH tissue transcriptomic data, Egl-9 family hypoxia-inducible factor 3 ( EGLN3 ) showed reduced expression, consistent with a testable hypothesis that hypoxia-independent mechanisms may contribute to maintenance of HIF-2α activity in this context. This study is limited by the use of HemECs derived from a single IH specimen and by the absence of on-target validation; accordingly, the findings should be interpreted as exploratory and hypothesis-generating.

Multi-view graph-regularized deep metric subspace clustering network

Multi-view subspace clustering has progressed significantly by using deep neural networks to handle nonlinear data representations. A recent advancement, the Multi-view Self-Expressive Subspace Clustering (MSESC) network, achieves markedly higher computational efficiency by substituting the traditional self-expression layer with a deep metric learning approach. Nevertheless, MSESC still suffers from two notable limitations: it fails to adequately capture the high-order geometric structures inherent in multi-view data, and it lacks effective guidance from the underlying clustering distribution. To overcome these shortcomings, we propose a novel framework termed Multi-View Graph Regularized Deep Metric Subspace Clustering (MVGR-DMSC). The proposed method introduces two key components into MSESC to enhance the discriminability of representations. First, a dual-order graph regularization module is devised to maintain both first-order and second-order manifold structures, thereby allowing the model to capture more complex local geometric relationships. Second, an adaptive view-weighted deep clustering module is incorporated, which employs the Kullback–Leibler divergence to guide representation learning while dynamically adjusting the contributions of different views. Through evaluations on five benchmark datasets, we show that MVGR-DMSC consistently yields better results than several state-of-the-art approaches, including the direct baseline MSESC, in both accuracy and robustness.

Dynamic proprioceptive training improves functional recovery in sprinters with patellofemoral pain: A randomized trial

Background Patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS) is a common musculoskeletal condition among physically active individuals, particularly sprinters, and is frequently associated with pain, impaired balance, and reduced functional performance. This study compared the effects of dynamic proprioceptive training and conventional strengthening on multidomain functional recovery in recreational sprinters with PFPS. Methods A two-arm, assessor-blinded randomized controlled trial was conducted among 60 recreational sprinters with unilateral PFPS. Participants were randomly allocated to either a Dynamic Proprioceptive Training (DPT) group or a Strengthening Program (SP) group (n = 30 each). Both groups received supervised rehabilitation three times weekly for 12 weeks. Primary outcomes included pain intensity (Numeric Pain Rating Scale [NPRS]), dynamic balance (Y-Balance Test [YBT]), and single-hop distance. Secondary outcomes included limb symmetry index (LSI), recovery rates, and a composite Recovery Efficiency Index (REI). Assessments were performed at baseline, 6 weeks, and 12 weeks. Repeated-measures ANOVA and regression-based analyses were performed. This trial was registered with the Clinical Trials Registry of India (CTRI/2025/07/090253). Results Both groups improved significantly over time (p < 0.001). However, the DPT group demonstrated greater clinically meaningful improvements than the SP group. At 12 weeks, between-group differences favored DPT for pain reduction (MD = 1.01 NPRS points, 95% CI: 0.61–1.41), dynamic balance (MD = 5.73 cm, 95% CI: 4.31–7.15), and hop performance (MD = 35.84 mm, 95% CI: 16.84–54.85). Conclusion Dynamic proprioceptive training produced greater multidomain functional recovery than conventional strengthening in recreational sprinters with PFPS. Incorporating sensorimotor and perturbation-based exercises into rehabilitation programmes may improve functional recovery, limb symmetry, and sport-specific performance in athletic populations.

Associations between health-related social capital and oral frailty risk among older adults: A stratified analysis by socioeconomic status in the JAGES longitudinal study

Background Although socioeconomic inequalities in oral health persist despite universal dental care, the role of social determinants remains unclear. Social capital may influence oral frailty, but evidence is limited, particularly regarding individual- and community-level social capital and differences by socioeconomic status (SES). This study examined these associations among community-dwelling older adults. Methods We analyzed longitudinal data from the Japan Gerontological Evaluation Study (JAGES) collected at baseline (2019) and follow-up (2022), including 31,378 older adults. Social capital was assessed across three domains: civic participation, social cohesion, and reciprocity at individual and community levels. Oral frailty was estimated using a validated predictive model incorporating age, remaining teeth, chewing ability, and swallowing function. Multivariable logistic regression analyses examined associations between individual- and community-level social capital and oral frailty risk, as well as the interaction effects of social capital, stratified by SES, on oral frailty risk across SES groups. All models were adjusted for potential confounders, including sex, age, education, household composition, and chronic conditions. Results Over three years, 21.6% of participants developed oral frailty risk, with a higher incidence among low-SES participants (24.6%) than among high-SES participants (19.9%). At the higher individual level, higher health-related social capital and social cohesion were significantly associated with lower odds of oral frailty risk across SES groups. Higher civic participation was also associated with lower oral frailty risk across SES groups, with a stronger association observed among low-SES participants. At the community level, higher civic participation was associated with lower oral frailty risk in the overall sample and among low-SES participants. A significant interaction between SES and individual-level civic participation was observed, while no significant interactions were found for other social capital measures. Conclusions Individual-level health-related social capital was associated with a lower risk of oral frailty among older adults. Furthermore, the inverse association between civic participation and oral frailty was stronger among individuals with low socioeconomic status, suggesting that promoting social participation may be a promising strategy for reducing socioeconomic inequalities in oral frailty.

Kilowatt-class planar four-way gysel combiner with power-aware impedance optimization for L-band pulsed radar

This work presents a compact planar four-way Gysel power divider/combiner designed for kilowatt-class coherent power combining in L-band pulsed radar transmitters. Unlike previously reported waveguide and coaxial Gysel architectures, the proposed planar implementation achieves a 3 kW peak output on an RO4003C substrate while maintaining low-loss, highly manufacturable microstrip construction. A power-aware full-wave electromagnetic optimization framework is introduced to refine characteristic impedances and electrical lengths, explicitly accounting for current distribution, thermal dissipation, and fabrication tolerance sensitivity, resulting in improved mid-band isolation and stable high-power performance. The fabricated prototype achieves an input return loss better than 15 dB, inter-port isolation exceeding 25 dB, amplitude imbalance within ± 0.3   d B , and phase deviation within ± 1 ∘ across 1.2–1.4 GHz. Grounded isolation branches equipped with flange-mounted high-power resistors, together with thermally optimized via arrays, ensure efficient dissipation of odd-mode energy under mismatch conditions. Experimental validation shows close agreement with simulation results, demonstrating that the proposed design represents a rare example of a planar microstrip Gysel combiner experimentally validated for reliable kilowatt-class operation in L-band solid-state radar systems, achieving a practical balance between power handling, compactness, and manufacturability.

Analysis of swimming teaching programs, aquatic competencies and specific skills in school settings from early childhood to secondary education: A systematic review

The teaching of swimming in school contexts has become increasingly important due to the benefits in the integral development of students and the prevention of aquatic accidents.This study analyses, by means of a systematic review, the aquatic teaching programmes and Competencies implemented in school settings over the last 25 years, from infant to secondary education. The Methodological approach was based on the PRISMA guidelines, with searches in scientific databases (PubMed, Scopus, Sport Discus and Web of Science) and secondary sources. Sixteen studies were selected according to the PICOS model, assessed with the STROBE and TREND tools. The results show a predominance of technical-utilitarian approaches focused on specific swimming skills, with little curricular integration and limited involvement of PE teachers. Most of the studies focused on infant and primary school, being scarce in secondary school. A high variability in duration, frequency, Contents and Assessment instruments was evidenced. The studies highlight the need for greater inclusion of swimming in school curricula, with more comprehensive pedagogical approaches adapted to each stage. It is concluded that although progress has been made, systematic implementation is still limited, requiring greater institutional support, teacher training and methodological coherence.

Virtual screening of Kocuria oceani AT-1 metabolites as potential maize growth regulators under drought conditions using molecular docking and dynamics simulation

Maize is a vital cereal crop, severely affected by environmental factors and climate change. Among abiotic factors, drought stress is considered one of the most detrimental factors limiting plant growth and biomass production. However, the molecular basis of bacterial metabolite-mediated drought tolerance in cereal crops remains poorly understood. The current in silico study aimed to investigate the molecular interactions between Kocuria oceani AT-1 metabolites and the maize UGT706F8 protein, using molecular docking and dynamics simulation analyses. The molecular interactions between bacterial metabolites and the UGT706F8 protein (glycosyltransferase enzyme, PDB ID 7Q3S) from Zea mays L. were evaluated. The in silico docking findings revealed a favorable binding affinity between bacterial metabolites and the target protein, indicating stable molecular interactions at the protein active site. Specifically, 4-tetradecanoyl-2,6-piperazinedione, and 3-benzylhexahydropyrrolo(1,2-a)pyrazine-1,4-dione displayed binding energies of −7.5 ± 0.33 and −8.5 ± 0.36 kcal/mol against the target protein, respectively. Under identical docking parameters, the known plant growth regulators (indole acetic acid and abscisic acid) yielded binding energies of −6.6 ± 0.34 and −5.8 ± 0.32 kcal/mol, respectively. Re-docking of the native uridine-5-diphosphate (UDP) ligand yielded a Root Mean Square Deviation (RMSD) of 0.9 Å, validating the reliability of the docking procedure. Additionally, molecular dynamics simulation (200 nanoseconds) outcomes supported these predictions, indicating stable molecular interactions and structural integrity of ligand-protein complexes, with ligand RMSD values remaining between 2 and 3 Å. The formation of hydrogen bonding (an average of 2.4 ± 0.6 and 2.1 ± 0.5, respectively), hydrophobic interactions, and stable Solvent-Accessible Surface Area (SASA) profiles (ranging between 19,000–22,000 Å 2 and 19,000–21,000 Å 2 , respectively) suggest the stability of complexes. Moreover, Molecular Mechanics Generalized Born Surface Area (MM-GBSA) outcomes (−102.05 ± 13.96 and −54.86 ± 7.93 kcal/mol, respectively) supported the favorable binding energetics of ligand-protein complexes. These computational outcomes suggest that Kocuria oceani metabolites can establish stable molecular interactions with the UGT706F8 protein, which may influence glycosyltransferase function. Further in vivo experimental validation is required to confirm their predicted maize growth-promoting potential under drought conditions.

Knowledge and awareness of oral cancer among adults in North-Western Italy: A cross-sectional questionnaire-based survey in community pharmacies

Early detection is a key determinant of prognosis in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC); however, delayed diagnosis remains common. Insufficient public awareness and knowledge of OSCC have been identified as important barriers to timely diagnosis. Therefore, the aim of this observational study is to assess knowledge of OSCC and its risk factors, and to identify possible differences in awareness and information sources according to demographic and subject-related factors. A cross-sectional survey was conducted between July 2023 and June 2024 in community pharmacies in North-Western Italy. Adult customers completed a structured questionnaire administered by trained interviewers. Associations were evaluated using chi-square tests and multivariable logistic regression analyses. A total of 914 participants were consecutively included (mean age 54.1 ± 17.0 years). Overall, 70.4% were aware of OSCC, mostly from family/friends (51.8%) and media (43.2%). Smoking was widely recognized as a risk factor (97.9%), while alcohol consumption and sunlight exposure were less known (63.9% and 18.6%, respectively). Awareness was significantly influenced by gender, higher educational level, age and smoking status. Most respondents (92.2%) expressed a need for further information, with community pharmacies identified as the preferred source (67.3%). The present findings highlight the need for OSCC awareness campaigns in North-Western Italy and suggest that community pharmacies may represent a valuable setting for delivering such interventions.

Evaluating the feasibility and effectiveness of a capacity-building model to nurture junior independent clinical research investigators in Uganda

Background Research capacity-building initiatives remain crucial to achieving Sustainable Development Goal 3 on health and well-being, especially in LMICs. We aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of the Infectious Disease Institute’s (IDI) Capacity-Building Model to nurture junior independent clinical research investigators in Uganda. Methods From 13 th July 2021–06 th February 2023, we conducted a cross-sectional study using a mixed-methods approach to assess the extent to which the Capacity-Building Model was effective, feasible, and acceptable. For quantitative research, we conducted an online survey with 80 scholars (Master’s, PhD, and Post-doctoral fellows), comprising 20 alumni and 60 current scholars, to explore their experiences and perceptions as former and current scholars of the Capacity Building Unit (CBU) at IDI. For qualitative research, we purposively selected 20 scholars to participate in the in-depth interviews. Results Participants reported that the capacity-building Model had a beneficial impact on their career progression, with 90% expressing a willingness to recommend it to others. The overall scientific benefit reported was 48.7%; this was significantly higher among continuing scholars than among alumni (56.7% vs 25.0%, respectively; p-value = 0.046). Additionally, 85% achieved their career goals, and 65% said it expanded their employment opportunities. Qualitative findings highlighted its significant positive impact on research training and professional development. Participants praised the Model’s emphasis on mentorship, with both scientific and non-scientific support proving crucial in guiding junior researchers through technical challenges, manuscript writing, and career planning. Soft skills training, dissemination platforms, and networking opportunities further contributed to scholars’ academic growth. Scholars benefited from robust institutional support, including access to research infrastructure, grantsmanship assistance, and administrative systems. However, challenges such as limited research funding, slow procurement processes, and delays in supervision hindered progress. The COVID-19 pandemic also disrupted mentorship and training. Participants recommended improvements in mentorship coordination, procurement efficiency, broader model visibility, and expansion to other universities and disciplines to enhance its effectiveness and sustainability. Conclusion Overall, the Capacity-Building Model was highly acceptable among scholars; however, minor administrative challenges need to be addressed to further enhance learning. We recommend tailored, relevant scholarly programs to meet the evolving needs of emerging scientists and foster scholarly growth and research innovation in academic institutions, enabling them to tackle local public health challenges. Future research is required to assess the cost of capacity building and its sustainability.

Numerical simulation study on pressure response and fluid loss mechanism of coal fracture network under particle temporary plugging

To address the issue of fluid loss leading to pressure failure when applying temporary plugging fracturing technology from the oil industry to enhance gas recovery in coal mines, and considering the current low efficiency of CO 2 solidification and utilization, a new method is proposed to inject SC-CO 2 and hot alkali solution together into coal to produce solidified particles as temporary plugging agents for solidification and utilization of CO 2 and fracturing transformation of coal. At present, the mechanisms governing pressure increase during temporary plugging with solidified CO 2 particles, as well as the relationship between internal pore and fracture pressures after plugging and fluid loss rate, remain unclear. Based on CT images, a complex geometric model of interconnected pores and fractures of coal is constructed. The morphology of solidified CO 2 particles is obtained via microscopic scanning, and conducts numerical simulation research on fluid solid coupling. Clearly define the pressure and flow distribution inside the coal under different temporary plugging positions and injection conditions. Revealing the pressure and fluid loss law inside the coal after temporary plugging. The results show that when particles are temporary plugging at different positions, the average internal pressure in the coal ranges from 8.05 MPa to 12.03 MPa. The fluid loss rate varies from 0.037 cm 3 /s to 0.152 cm 3 /s. Establish equations for the relationship between injection pressure, fracture size, temporary plugging location, internal pressure, and fluid loss rate, with a fitting formula R 2 of 0.988. Furthermore, an experimental setup and methodology involving supercritical CO 2 and hot alkali liquor injection were designed to validate the accuracy of the numerical simulation results regarding pressure enhancement and fluid loss under solidified particle plugging. This study provides theoretical support for enhanced coalbed methane recovery and the development of integrated technologies for underground CO 2 storage and hydraulic control of gas emissions.

Effects of different oral intake management during labor on maternal and neonatal outcomes: A protocol for a systematic review and network meta-analysis

Introduction Fasting or restricting oral intake during labor may adversely affect maternal and neonatal outcomes. Although several interventions regarding oral intake during labor have been proposed, the optimal strategy for clinical practice remains controversial. This study aims to conduct a network meta-analysis to identify the most effective intervention for managing maternal oral intake during labor. Methods and analysis A comprehensive search will be conducted in the following electronic databases: Web of Science, PubMed, Embase, Ovid, Cochrane Library, ClinicalTrials.gov, the WHO International Clinical Trials Registry Platform, the Chinese Biomedical Literature Database, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, Wanfang Database, and VIP Database, from database inception until January 2026. All randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating oral intake interventions during labor will be included. The primary outcomes include vaginal delivery rate, operative vaginal delivery, caesarean section, 10‐minute Apgar score, and neonatal hypoglycemia. Secondary outcomes include maternal and neonatal outcomes. Maternal outcomes include duration of labor, ketoacidosis, maternal hypoglycemia, postpartum hemorrhage, vomiting rate, Mendelson’s syndrome, maternal thirst and hunger sensations, and maternal satisfaction. Neonatal outcomes include fetal distress, neonatal jaundice, umbilical cord blood pH < 7.2, and admission to the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). Study selection, data extraction, and quality assessment will be conducted independently by two reviewers, and disagreements will be resolved through discussion with a third reviewer. Meta-analysis will be performed using RevMan 5.4 where appropriate; otherwise, subgroup analyses or descriptive analyses will be conducted. Ethics and dissemination This review will not involve individual patient data and therefore does not require ethical approval. The findings of this systematic review and network meta-analysis will be disseminated through publication in a peer-reviewed journal and presentation at relevant academic conferences. PROSPERO registration number CRD42025630953.

A multi-agent equilibrium model in an incomplete market with discrete dividends: Applications to long-term discount curves

This paper develops a multi-agent equilibrium model in an incomplete market setting. The model incorporates dividend-paying securities whose dividend processes are interpreted as flows of consumption goods and can be driven by exogenously given factor processes. We consider an optimal consumption and portfolio problem for agents who have different views on fundamental risks and heterogeneous time preferences. Using a convex duality approach, we obtain expressions for the equilibrium state price density process, which subsequently yields the term structure of discount rates. To better reflect market practices, the model also incorporates discrete timing for dividend payments, consistent with semiannual or annual coupon schedules and policy decisions that typically occur at specific points during the year. As an application of the model, we provide numerical examples of long-term discount rates for valuing long-dated cashflows while exogenously incorporating the dynamics of factor processes that drive the dividend processes reflecting changes in the amount of government bonds available in the market. We examine how changes in the supply of government bonds affect the pricing of insurance products, including death benefits and pension annuities, through shifts in long-term discount rates. The numerical examples illustrate the qualitative implications of the model and are not intended to provide empirical findings.

Hidden deficiency under bright skies: Vitamin D prevalence and genetic associations in African Type 2 diabetes: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Background Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) has become a significant health challenge in Africa, with rapidly increasing prevalence. Despite abundant sunlight, vitamin D deficiency (VDD) is prevalent and may influence glucose metabolism and insulin resistance. Genetic factors, including vitamin D receptor (VDR) polymorphisms, may modify these effects. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to estimate the prevalence of VDD and evaluate the association of VDR gene variants with T2DM among African populations. Methods We systematically searched PubMed, Cochrane Library, ScienceDirect, Embase, Web of Science, and Google Scholar for observational studies published up to June 11, 2025, reporting VDD prevalence and VDR genetic associations in African individuals with T2DM. Data extraction and quality assessment followed Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) and PRISMA 2020 guidelines. Pooled prevalence, mean difference and odds ratios (ORs) were calculated using random-effects meta-analysis. Heterogeneity, publication bias, sensitivity analyses, and meta-regression were performed. All statistical analyses were conducted using R version 4.3.1 (2023-06-16 ucrt). Results Twenty-two eligible studies encompassing 3,447 participants from 11 African countries were included. The pooled prevalence of VDD among individuals with T2DM was 51% (95% CI: 36–65%), with substantial heterogeneity (I 2  = 95.7%). Subgroup analyses showed highest prevalence in East Africa (56%). Vitamin D-deficient individuals had significantly higher HbA1c compared to sufficient individuals (mean difference = 0.89%; 95% CI: 0.06–1.72 p = 0.044; I 2  = 0%, p = 0.49). The pooled analysis of VDR FokI polymorphisms did not demonstrate a significant association with T2DM risk (OR = 1.51; 95% CI: 0.23–9.73). No evidence of publication bias was detected. Conclusion Vitamin D deficiency is highly prevalent in African populations with T2DM and is associated with poorer glycemic control. Current evidence is insufficient to conclude on VDR FokI polymorphisms and T2DM risk. These findings underscore the need for interventional trials to determine whether improving vitamin D status enhances glycemic outcomes; routine screening or supplementation recommendations remain premature. Registration number CRD420251134616.

Correction: Longitudinal changes in circulating biomarkers from baseline to week 48 in treatment-Naïve people living with HIV initiating integrase inhibitor-based antiretroviral therapy

Randomized single-blind study to examine the implementation and effectiveness of integrating evidence-based early relational health programs in pediatrics for families with low incomes: A clinical trial protocol

Disparities in early childhood development due to poverty are linked to lifelong gaps in health and well-being. To address such disparities, interventions must not only include the prevention of toxic stress, but also the promotion of early relational health—that is the presence of safe, stable, nurturing relationships between young children and their caregivers. Moreover, a public health approach that integrates multiple programs in order to meet the unique needs and build on the varied resources of individual families is needed to effect population-level change. This randomized controlled trial seeks to examine the implementation and effectiveness of combining two evidence-based interventions, HealthySteps and PlayReadVIP. A total of 355 parent-child dyads, 35 in the implementation phase and 320 in the effectiveness phase, will be randomly assigned to receive HealthySteps+PlayReadVIP or traditional HealthySteps, as an active Control. Families will receive the intervention at each pediatric well-child visit from birth to age 2 and will complete assessments at enrollment and child age 12 and 24 months. In addition, up to ten HealthySteps Specialists and other care providers will be enrolled and will complete surveys at each assessment point. The primary outcomes include positive parent-child relationship, parent cognitive stimulation, and child socioemotional development.