bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Acute Toluene Exposure on Oxidative Stress Parameters and Endothelial Markers in the Coronary Artery of Wistar Rats
Authors: Setya Maryiantari Ellyza , Keman Soedjajadi , Sudiana I Ketut , Martini Santi
Published: February 2025

Objective Toluene is the most abundant lipophilic aromatic compound in our environment. Exposure to toluene through inhalation is toxic to the cardiovascular system due to the formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) that trigger oxidative stress. This study aims to examine the response of coronary arteries to toluene inhalation exposure based on the expression of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), malondialdehyde (MDA), vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1) in coronary arteries, and levels of CYP2E1 with oxidized low-density lipoprotein (Ox-LDL) in the serum. Methods This was a true experimental study on Wistar rats with a post-test control group design. In total, 36 Wistar rats were divided into five experimental (X1–X5) and one control group. The experimental groups were exposed to 1.6, 3.2, 6.4, 12.8, and 25.6 mL of toluene, respectively. All groups, except control, received inhalation exposure for 14 d (6 h/d). Results In Wistar rats, toluene exposure significantly reduced the expression of SOD and CAT enzymes while it increased the expression of MDA and VCAM-1 in the coronary artery. Serum levels of CYP2E1 and Ox-LDL were unaffected. Conclusion Acute inhalation exposure to toluene significantly decreased SOD and CAT expression with increased MDA and VCAM-1 expression in coronary arteries. Other findings suggest that decreased CAT expression leads to increased VCAM-1 expression in the coronary artery.
Do more pregnancies increase the risk of periodontal disease?
Authors: Helmi Mohammad , AlJoghaiman Eman
Published: February 2025

Background Hormonal changes in pregnancy and their induced effect on periodontal health are well documented. The present study is aimed at the potential repercussions of multiple pregnancies on periodontal health. Materials and methods Our study utilized data from key sections of the NHANES. All the pertaining and relevant data for the study is collected. Our exposure variable was the number of pregnancies, and the outcome variable was periodontal disease. The number of pregnancies is classified as one, two, three, four, or more. Age, gender, race/ethnicity, education, poverty/income ratio, marital status, and other variables. Multiple logistic regression models were employed to assess the impact of multiple pregnancies on periodontal disease. Result The crude and multiple logistic regression analyses revealed that none of the variables were significantly associated with the prevalence of periodontitis. In univariate analysis, patients with one or two pregnancies had higher odds of experiencing periodontitis (OR 1.154, 95% CI 0.748-1.779), (OR 1.464, 95% CI 0.864-2.483) respectively. However, these associations did not reach statistical significance. Conclusion Within the limitation of the study, there is no significant relationship between parity and the prevalence of periodontitis, the longitudinal study may be warranted to delve deeper into any potential associations.
The complete genome sequences of Bacillus velezensis B26: a promising biocontrol agent and biofertilizer
Authors: Kamath B Venkatesh , Mallya Sandeep , Mallikarjuna Subrahmanyam Volety , Kolathur Kiran Kumar
Published: February 2025

Bacillus velezensis is a bacterium widely recognized for its biocontrol properties and ability to promote plant growth. This study presents the whole-genome sequence of B. velezensis B26, a newly identified strain isolated from chicken carcass soil in Udupi, India. The bacterium showed strong activity against fungal pathogens and exhibited diverse enzymatic activities. The whole-genome sequencing was executed using Illumina technologies. Assembly revealed that strain B26 possesses a genome of 3,946,698-bp with a G+C content of 46.3%. Genome annotation identified 3776 protein-coding genes, 1 rRNA gene, 50 tRNA genes, 5 ncRNA genes, and 59 pseudogenes. Functional analysis of the B. velezensis B26 genome revealed 216 genes involved in carbohydrate metabolism, 3 genes in potassium metabolism, 148 genes linked for cofactors, vitamins, prosthetic groups and pigments, 10 genes involved in phosphorus metabolism, 24 genes associated with iron acquisition and metabolism, 20 genes for nitrogen metabolism, 6 genes involved in sulfur metabolism, 6 genes in secondary metabolism, 12 genes associated with metabolism of aromatic compounds, 43 genes involved in stress response and 36 genes associated with virulence, disease and defence. The raw sequence data generated in this work have been deposited in the NCBI database and the genome sequence is available under the accession number JAYKOV000000000. These genomic data provide insight into the biocontrol ability and plant-growth promoting capabilities of B. velezensis B26.
Application of a practical methodology for the selection of suitable value chains to produce circular fertilisers from secondary raw materials
Authors: Paredes Lidia , Gambuzzi Elisa , Gentili Rita , Pérez-García Jessica , Pigoli Ambrogio , Verleden Inès , Villanueva-Rey Pedro , Vogt-Kaute Werner , Moerman Wim , González-Monjardin Lucía
Published: February 2025

Background The growing demand for food products, driven by a growing world population, has increased Europe's dependence on conventional fertilizers, which have a high impact on the environment. In the last decade, new circular fertilizer value chains have appeared as promising alternatives to conventional fertilizers. Methods Because of the huge number of alternatives, this study aimed to develop a practical methodology that facilitates the analysis of data related to each value chain to identify and select the most promising circular fertilizer value chains to promote their wide-scale production and use in agriculture, replacing the dependence on conventional fertilizers in Europe. This methodology is based on two stages (funnelling process and scoring system) and considers the 16 criteria defined in the study. The methodology was tested for 48 value chains identified during the mapping of secondary raw materials in Europe with the potential to be used as circular fertilizers when processed, classifying them into seven different raw materials: urban wastewater (UWW), industrial wastewater (IWW), sewage sludge (SS), biowaste (BW), biological by-products (BBP), treated manure (TM), and digestate (DIG). The funnelling process is based on a GO/NO-GO approach that meets six criteria and allows the discarding of 18 value chains, from 30 to the second stage. The scoring system was a more complete analysis, including ten new scoring criteria. Results This system allowed the identification of the potential of the value chains analyzed, concluding that struvite from UWW, struvite from IWW, stabilized sludge from SS, composted biowaste from BW, feather meal from BBP, solid fraction from DIG, and spent mushroom substrate from TM are the most promising options for agriculture. Conclusions The develop methodology was used to evaluate 48 different value chains with the potential to generate promising circular fertlizers. Seven value chains were finally selected.
Agroecological evaluation of profiles with eroded arable and virgin soil in the pot experiment with pea at the northern part of steppe zone of Ukraine
Authors: Kharytonov Mykola , Pashova Valentina , Bagorka Mariia , Mytsyk Oleksandr , Tkalich Yuriy , Lemishko Svitlana
Published: February 2025

The effective fertility of the humus horizon of mildly washed soil in terms of the productivity of aboveground mass of peas is the highest among all humus genetic horizons. The fertility of the upper horizon with very prominent humus accumulation (Hp), lower transition horizon, with little humus (Phc), and underlying parent material (Pc) horizons is 20% lower than the upper horizon with very prominent humus accumulation (H) horizon. The accumulation of macroelements by peas on the soils of virgin slopes is less than on the soils of arable slopes - by 18% for nitrogen, 36% for phosphorus, and 15% for potassium. The maximum accumulation of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium by pea was on mildly sloped soil from the 0-10 and 10-20 cm layer comparative to moderately sloped one. The absorption of trace elements by pea depends on environmental conditions and can be divided into three groups: elements of high concentration - Fe, Mn, Zn, medium - Cu, Ni and Pb, and low - Co and Cd. An established pattern: the content of trace elements in plants grown in deeper layers decreases.
The impact of microplastic pollution on human health - current issues
Authors: Kucharczyk Emilia , Andrzejczak Klara , Sternak Agata , Witkowski Wiktor , Kazimierska Maja , Błaszczyszyn Katarzyna , Gaweł-Dąbrowska Dagmara
Published: February 2025

In recent years, the pervasive presence of microplastics in various environments has raised global concern. These tiny plastic fragments, less than 5mm in size, have infiltrated terrestrial, aquatic, and atmospheric ecosystems, posing threats to biodiversity, human health, and ecological balance. Understanding microplastic pollution has become crucial for scientists, policymakers, and stakeholders. This paper offers a comprehensive overview of microplastics, covering their sources, distribution, fate, and ecological implications. By synthesizing existing knowledge and identifying research gaps, this paper aims to deepen our understanding of microplastic's global impact and support sustainable environmental management. The objective of this study is to explore the prevalence, distribution, environmental implications, and potential mitigation approaches related to microplastics across diverse ecosystems, with a specific emphasis on their impact on human health and well-being. To obtain up-to-date information concerning trends in the topic of microplastics, a review of the PubMed and Google Scholar databases, along with the latest legislative reports in both Europe and Poland, was performed. Microplastics pose a significant environmental and health threat, disrupting soil properties, biochemical cycles, and ecosystems globally. Despite extensive research, gaps remain in understanding their behavior. Effective management requires comprehensive waste strategies and regulatory measures to mitigate their impact. Addressing this challenge demands interdisciplinary collaboration and heightened public awareness for a sustainable future.
Psychiatric Symptoms in Acute Intermittent Porphyria - Case Report and Course of Treatment Using Placebo
Authors: Kosiba Waldemar , Prystacka-Szar Dominika , Siemko Jakub , Kupczak Wojciech
Published: February 2025

Introduction:
Acute intermittent porphyria is a disease inherited in an autosomal dominant manner, occurring with a frequency of 1:75,000 people. The main symptom of the disease is paroxysmal, colicky abdominal pain, which is accompanied by neuropsychiatric symptoms. For some patients, psychiatric symptoms are the only symptom of the disease. In this paper, the case of a 43-year-old patient struggling with recurrent colicky abdominal pain and depressive and anxiety disorders, which intensify during exacerbation periods, is presented, featuring an ambiguous diagnosis of porphyria in previous laboratory tests. In the treatment, glucose infusions, morphine, psychiatric and psychological therapy were used - saline solution was administered as a placebo.
Aim: 
The aim of this paper is to highlight the difficulties in diagnosing psychiatric symptoms during an acute attack of porphyria, which significantly complicate its treatment, and to consider the possibility of using placebo as one of the elements in the diagnostic and therapeutic plan in order to optimize treatment and avoid complications by using smaller doses of narcotic drugs.
Review methods: 
A thorough analysis of research studies available on PUBMED was conducted using the following keywords: acute intermittent porphyria; porphobilinogen; depression; anxiety disorders; psychiatry; placebo. The medical history of a 43-year-old female patient, suspected of having acute intermittent porphyria due to recurrent abdominal pain and psychiatric symptoms, was also analyzed.
Conclusion: 
Our case illustrates how psychiatric symptoms can complicate the diagnosis of acute intermittent porphyria. Failing to recognize acute porphyria also carries the risk of life-threatening complications and may lead to unnecessary pharmacotherapy and stigmatization as a mental illness.  This case demonstrates that placebo can be one of the components of a diagnostic and therapeutic plan of acute intermittent porphyria.
Amplifying the Strengths of Our Systems: The Effectiveness of Appreciative Approaches to Change Management
Authors: Sennequier Patricia
Published: February 2025

Participatory and appreciative approaches aim to bring out the best in those involved in an organizational transformation. They draw on the strengths and assets already at work and reinforce them. By enhancing and amplifying what already exists, they stimulate the creativity, confidence and commitment of everyone working towards a common goal. They encourage individuals and groups to become agents of positive change.
Beyond Earth’s Gravity: Navigating Legal Hurdles in Space-Based Drug Research and Development
Authors: García Daniel , Druckman Mike
Published: February 2025

For over 20 years, scientists aboard the International Space Station (the “ISS”) have been expanding the boundaries of scientific knowledge. Leveraging microgravity and other extreme conditions unique to space, these scientists have made significant discoveries in cellular behavior, tissue engineering, gene expression, organism growth patterns, and regenerative medicine. This article aims to introduce the pharmaceutical and biotechnology communities to the exciting possibilities and challenges of conducting research and development (“R&D”) in space.
The scientific advantages of space-based drug R&D are compelling. Experiments conducted aboard the ISS National Lab, along with ground-based studies, reveal unique features that cannot be replicated under normal gravity conditions. For instance, space-based drug research has shown that microgravity conditions enable more efficient 3D cell cultures, improved protein crystal growth, and open up new possibilities for 3D printing of biomaterials, cells, tissues, and organs.
Leaflet morphometric variation of Elatostema integrifolium, an Anoa forage plant, in Abdul Latief Forest Park, South Sulawesi, Indonesia
Authors: AZIZ ISNA RASDIANAH , MUSPA ADE , MUTHIADIN CUT , HAJRAH HAJRAH , ARMITA DEVI , MASRIANY MASRIANY , ZULKARNAIN ZULKARNAIN , AMRULLAH SYARIF HIDAYAT , RUSTAM ASWAR , DIRHAMZAH DIRHAMZAH , MUSTAMI MUHAMMAD KHALIFAH , SUPARDAN DADAN , SEGURA-SEQUEIRA DAVID
Published: February 2025

Abstract. Aziz IR, Muspa A, Muthiadin C, Hajrah, Armita D, Masriany, Zulkarnain, Amrullah SH, Rustam A, Dirhamzah, Mustami MK, Supardan D, Segura-Sequeira D. 2024. Leaflet morphometric variation of Elatostema integrifolium, an Anoa forage plant, in Abdul Latief Forest Park, South Sulawesi, Indonesia. Biodiversitas 25: 4244-4252. Accurately identifying plant taxa is crucial for conservation efforts, and leaf characteristics play a vital role in this process. Elatostema integrifolium (D.Don) Wedd., a forage plant and primary food source for Anoa (Bubalus spp.), is a potential candidate for differentiation based on leaflet morphology. This study aimed to quantify the variation in morphological characteristics of E. integrifolium leaflets, investigate the distribution patterns of these traits, and assess the degree of morphological similarity between different locations in Abdul Latief Forest Park, South Sulawesi, Indonesia. The study employed a systematic sampling across three designated stations (Station I, Station II, and Station III) representing varying management functions within the park. Forty plants were collected from each station (n = 3), and 11 morphometric traits of their leaflets were analyzed. Univariate analysis was performed using SPSS ver. 29, with whisker-box plots generated for data visualization. Multivariate analysis, implemented in MATLAB® ver 9.14, incorporated a two-pronged approach. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) was initially conducted using a subset of seven key morphological traits identified during exploratory analysis. Results revealed that variation within stations was significant for all the scored leaflet morphological traits. The distribution of morphological profiles of E. integrifolium across the investigated sites exhibits minimal segregation. Hierarchical cluster analysis based on morphological traits revealed a closer relationship between the leaflet characters observed in Station I and Station II, compared to their similarity with Station III. It is projected to enhance the precision of plant identification and taxonomy, deepen our comprehension of plant adaptation, and ultimately guide the formulation of focused conservation strategies for E. integrifolium populations.
Hypersonic wake velocity measurements using acetone molecular tagging velocimetry
Authors: Andrade Angelina , Shoemake W. Lawton , Willamson Chad O. , Stegmeier Nicholas W. , Posladek Kevin R. , Strasser Nathan S. , Hall Christopher L. , Olshefski Kristopher T. , Nutter Nicole F. , Glasby Ryan S. , Combs Christopher S.
Published: February 2025

Molecular tagging velocimetry, a minimally intrusive laser diagnostic, was used to find quantitative off-body velocity measurements in the wake of both strut-mounted and free-flight spheres in hypersonic flow. Acetone gas seeded in the flow was excited using the fourth harmonic of a pulse-burst Nd:YAG laser. The experimental tests were validated and compared to simulations using a continuous Galerkin flow solver and an adaptive mesh refinement process. Near the centerline in the wake of the sphere, velocities between −105 and 65 m/s were observed due to reverse flow in the viscous shear layer. Similarly, the simulated data showed negative velocity values in the shear layer region. Outside of the shear layer, average velocities of 730 m/s were observed in both the experimental and simulated results. The overall average uncertainty for the strut-mounted and free-flight cases was estimated to have an accuracy of ±4% (±35.5m/s or 4.9%). This non-intrusive technique provides a velocity map of the wake behind a sphere under hypersonic conditions.
Comparing optical four-flux model results with experimental data obtained by integrating sphere measurements
Authors: Bilokur Maryna , Jonsson Jacob C.
Published: February 2025

Four-flux theory is a way to model scattering through multiple layers
of a system based on diffuse and collimated properties. When compared
with measurement results obtained using an integrating sphere or a
goniophotometer, an approximation is often made as the physical
instrument cannot separate the collimated component from the diffuse
light scattered in the forward direction. This paper tries to clarify
the meaning of the word diffuse for the
different cases and outlines simple corrections to improve the
accuracy when comparing four-flux models and measured data based on
sample haze and the geometry of the integrating sphere.
A SuperLearner-based pipeline for the development of DNA methylation-derived predictors of phenotypic traits
Authors: Khodasevich Dennis , Holland Nina , van der Laan Lars , Cardenas Andres
Published: February 2025

Background

DNA methylation (DNAm) provides a window to characterize the impacts of environmental exposures and the biological aging process. Epigenetic clocks are often trained on DNAm using penalized regression of CpG sites, but recent evidence suggests potential benefits of training epigenetic predictors on principal components.

Methodology/findings

We developed a pipeline to simultaneously train three epigenetic predictors; a traditional CpG Clock, a PCA Clock, and a SuperLearner PCA Clock (SL PCA). We gathered publicly available DNAm datasets to generate i) a novel childhood epigenetic clock, ii) a reconstructed Hannum adult blood clock, and iii) as a proof of concept, a predictor of polybrominated biphenyl exposure using the three developmental methodologies. We used correlation coefficients and median absolute error to assess fit between predicted and observed measures, as well as agreement between duplicates. The SL PCA clocks improved fit with observed phenotypes relative to the PCA clocks or CpG clocks across several datasets. We found evidence for higher agreement between duplicate samples run on alternate DNAm arrays when using SL PCA clocks relative to traditional methods. Analyses examining associations between relevant exposures and epigenetic age acceleration (EAA) produced more precise effect estimates when using predictions derived from SL PCA clocks.

Conclusions

We introduce a novel method for the development of DNAm-based predictors that combines the improved reliability conferred by training on principal components with advanced ensemble-based machine learning. Coupling SuperLearner with PCA in the predictor development process may be especially relevant for studies with longitudinal designs utilizing multiple array types, as well as for the development of predictors of more complex phenotypic traits.
“They gave us the right to choose.” A qualitative study of preferences for differentiated service delivery location among recipients of antiretroviral therapy at Lighthouse Trust in Lilongwe Malawi
Authors: Orii Lisa , Wilson Kate S. , Huwa Jacqueline , Kiruthu-Kamamia Christine , Sande Odala , Thawani Agness , Berner-Rodoreda Astrid , Viola Evelyn , Tweya Hannock , Tembo Petros , Masambuka Wapu , Anderson Richard , Feldacker Caryl
Published: February 2025

Some differentiated service delivery (DSD) models for antiretroviral therapy (ART) allow stable recipients of care (RoC) to receive multi-month ART drug refills and complete rapid reviews in community sites. As DSD options expand across sub-Saharan Africa, RoC’s preferences and perspectives on community-based DSD versus clinic-based care models warrants attention. Lighthouse Trust (LT) implements DSD services for the Ministry of Health in Lilongwe, Malawi, including a community-based ART service delivery model that complements it traditional, clinic-based care. In this qualitative study, we explore reasons why RoC enrolled in LT clinics and eligible for DSD chose clinic-based ART services or a Nurse-led Community-based ART Program (NCAP) that reaches clients in established community peer support groups. We conducted eight focus group discussions (FGDs) among LT RoC: four FGDs among NCAP groups and four clinic-based FGDs (2 per setting) to explore opinions, preferences, and perceptions about ART service delivery. FGDs were recorded in Chichewa, translated and transcribed into English for thematic analysis. Findings were discussed with LT and NCAP teams to ensure results resonated with their personal experiences. Sixty-three participants took part in FGDs. Many findings were similar across care model. Across both NCAP and clinic FGDs, RoC were pleased with the care quality and appreciated the convenience of integrating their appointment visits at their chosen care model into their daily lives. Across FGDs, RoC also appreciated the quality of care, the respectful provider-to-patient interactions, and the attention to privacy at community and clinic sites. RoC in both clinic and NCAP care models expressed satisfaction with their chosen care model and preferred that choice over alternative options and locations, some noting their willingness to travel far to access LT’s high quality of clinic-based care. Privacy protection was an important consideration for choosing care models. At LT clinics, RoC highlighted the importance of physical separation between LT’s HIV-specific service site and other care services. In NCAP, RoC expressed that their choice of care model was reinforced by the sense of mutual support they received through NCAP peer support. These findings suggest the importance of offering personal choice to RoC on care model and selection of DSD options to support their ongoing engagement in care.
Differential risk of cardiovascular complications in patients with type-2 diabetes mellitus in Ghana: A hospital-based cross-sectional study
Authors: Obirikorang Christian , Adu Evans Asamoah , Afum-Adjei Awuah Anthony , Darko Samuel Nkansah , Ghartey Frank Naku , Ametepe Samuel , Nyarko Eric N. Y. , Anto Enoch Odame , Owiredu William Kwame Boakye Ansah
Published: February 2025

Aim

To characterize clinically relevant subgroups of patients with type-2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) based on adiposity, insulin secretion, and resistance indices.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted at Eastern Regional Hospital in Ghana from July to October 2021 to investigate long-term patients with T2DM. To select participants, a systematic random sampling method was employed. Demographic data was collected using a structured questionnaire and fasting blood samples were taken to measure glycemic and lipid levels. Blood pressure and adiposity indices were measured during recruitment. The risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) was defined using Framingham scores and standard low-density lipoprotein thresholds. To analyze the data, k-means clustering algorithms and regression analysis were used.

Results

The study identified three groups in female patients according to body mass index, relative fat mass, glycated hemoglobin, and triglyceride-glucose index. These groups included the obesity-related phenotype, the severe insulin resistance phenotype, and the normal weight phenotype with improved insulin resistance. Among male patients with T2DM, two groups were identified, including the obesity-related phenotype with severe insulin resistance and the normal weight phenotype with improved insulin sensitivity. The severe insulin resistance phenotype in female patients was associated with an increased risk of high CVD (OR = 5.34, 95%CI:2.11–13.55) and metabolic syndrome (OR = 7.07; 95%CI:3.24–15.42). Among male patients, the obesity-related phenotype with severe insulin resistance was associated with an increased intermediate (OR = 21.78, 95%CI:4.17–113.78) and a high-risk CVD (OR = 6.84, 95%CI:1.45–32.12).

Conclusions

The findings highlight significant cardiometabolic heterogeneity among T2DM patients. The subgroups of T2DM patients characterized by obesity and/or severe insulin resistance with or without poor glycemic control, have increased risk of CVD. This underscores the importance of considering differences in adiposity, insulin secretion, and sensitivity indices when making clinical decisions for patients with T2DM.
Re-calibrating measurements of low-cost air quality monitors using PCR-GPR air quality forecasting models
Authors: Liu Bing , Yang Shuting , Wang Junqi
Published: February 2025

As a key tool for real-time monitoring of air pollutant concentrations, the chemical sensor, the core component of the low-cost Air Quality Monitor (AQM), is susceptible to a variety of factors during the measurement process, leading to errors in the measurement data. To enhance the measurement accuracy of chemical sensors, this paper presents a calibration method based on the PCR-GPR model. This method not only effectively enhances the measurement accuracy of chemical sensors, but also combines the interpretability of traditional statistical models with the high-precision characteristics of Gaussian Process Regression (GPR) models. First, we perform Principal Component Analysis (PCA) on the measurement data of the AQM to solve the multicollinearity problem. Through PCA, we successfully extracted 8 principal components, which not only contained 95% of the information in the original data, but also effectively eliminated the correlation between the variables, providing a more robust data base for subsequent modeling. Subsequently, we established a Principal Component Regression (PCR) model using the concentration of pollutants measured by the national monitoring station as the dependent variable and the 8 principal components extracted above as the independent variables. The PCR model can effectively extract the linear relationship between the independent and dependent variables, providing a linear part of the explanation for the calibration process. However, there are often complex nonlinear relationships between pollutant concentrations and AQM measurements. To capture these nonlinear relationships, we further established a GPR model with the residuals of the PCR model as the dependent variable and the measurement data of the AQM as the independent variable. By combining the PCR model and the GPR model, we obtained the final PCR-GPR calibration model. It is worth mentioning that this study adopted the time series cross-validation method for data grouping, an innovative approach that is more aligned with real-world scenarios and adequately captures the seasonal variations in pollutant concentrations. The experimental results show that the model exhibits excellent performance on several evaluation metrics and can calibrate the chemical sensor well, improving its measurement accuracy by 16.94% ~ 82.01%.
Ecological modelling: A computational analysis of air pollution discourses in English print media of India and Pakistan
Authors: Rabbani Sana , Ahmed Fasih
Published: February 2025

The present study investigates air pollution dynamics through newspaper discourse in India and Pakistan, where both countries rank among the top five countries affected by air pollution. The study focused on newspaper discourses over almost two decades (2005–2023). The study applied Latent Dirichlet Allocation (LDA), a robust algorithm for analyzing the large text corpus. The study underpinned Computational Grounded Theory, which relies on the fact that computation is a way to reveal the hidden meanings beyond the text. The LDA-generated topics reveal that both countries face the toxicological effects of air pollution on health. The primary topics extracted through LDA revolve around discourses related to vehicular emissions, industrial emissions, and urbanization. In addition, the control measures taken by both countries relate to emission standards. The study also has implications for policymakers and planners considering these directions to control air pollution.
Cost drivers associated with autologous stem-cell transplant (ASCT) in patients with relapsed/refractory diffuse large B-cell lymphoma in a Japanese real-world setting: A structural equation model (SEM) analysis 2012–2022
Authors: Tsutsué Saaya , Makita Shinichi , Asou Hiroya , Wada Shingo , Lee Wen Shi , Ainiwaer Dilinuer , Idehara Koki , Aoyagi Sona-Sanae , Kim Seok-Won , Taylor Todd
Published: February 2025

Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) is the most prevalent non-Hodgkin lymphoma, with increasing incidence, in Japan. It is associated with substantial economic burden and relatively poor survival outcomes for relapsed/ refractory (r/r) DLBCL patients. Despite its association with economic burden and the relatively limited number of eligible patients in Japan as reported in previous real-world studies, Japanese clinical guidelines recommend stem-cell transplantation (SCT) for transplant-eligible r/r DLBCL patients. This is the first study to elucidate the total healthcare cost, associated cost drivers and healthcare resource use of SCT among patients with r/r DLBCL in a nationwide setting. The study design included a follow-up period of up to 24 months with subsequent lines of therapies using retrospective nationwide claims data from the Medical Data Vision Co., Ltd. Health Insurance Association from April 2012 to August 2022. Included patients had a confirmed diagnosis of DLBCL, received allogeneic SCT (allo-SCT) or autologous SCT (ASCT) after the first DLBCL diagnosis, and received high-dose chemotherapy during the 6-month look-back period. The results confirmed that no patients had allo-SCT, hence only ASCT was included in the analysis. Structural equation modeling was used to identify potential total healthcare cost drivers by evaluating direct, indirect, and total effects and provide a benchmark reference for future innovative therapies. A total of 108 patients (3.8%) among all DLBCL patients who received SCT met the eligibility criteria and were considered ASCT patients; majority of which were males (n = 63, 58.33%), with a mean [median] (SD) age of 52.04 [55] (9.88) years. A total of 15 patients (13.89%) received subsequent therapies. The most frequent subsequent therapy was GDP-based with or without rituximab (n = 8, 7.41%). The mean [median] (SD) number of follow-up hospitalizations on or after SCT-related hospitalizations was 1.66 [1] (1.36), with a mean [median] (SD) length of hospital stay being 36.88 [34] (12.95) days. The total mean [median] (SD) healthcare cost after adjustment incurred per patient per year during follow-up was $79,052.44 [$42,722.82] ($121,503.65). Number of hospitalizations and Charlson Comorbidity Index scores (+5) were the key drivers of total healthcare costs in patients with r/r DLBCL. Index years 2020–2022 and heart disease as a complication were other statistically significant factors that had positive effects as increase on total healthcare costs.
Vegetation restoration effectiveness with main factors in the Beijing-Tianjin sandstorm source region during 2000–2020, China
Authors: Zhang Xingshuo , Yuan Jingfang , Liu Xiaoman , Zong Cheng
Published: February 2025

The Beijing-Tianjin Sandstorm Source Region (BTSSR), a region with significant vegetation degradation in China, has been subjected to ecological engineering intended to curb vegetation browning. Nevertheless, few studies have used multisource data to quantitatively evaluate the vegetation restoration effectiveness in the BTSSR, and the relationship between ecological engineering and vegetation restoration effectiveness in this region from statistical evidence has received little attention so far. Here, we employed the comprehensive vegetation parameters to describe the vegetation restoration effectiveness, and examined the driving mechanism of natural and human factors in different sub regions. First, we evaluated the vegetation restoration effectiveness in the BTSSR using an index that combined Fractional Vegetation Coverage (FVC) and Net Primary Productivity (NPP). Our results showed that the vegetation restoration effectiveness has significantly increased over time. From 2000 to 2020, 60.9% of the area achieved significant vegetation restoration, and the area with higher vegetation restoration effectiveness was concentrated in the southern part of the study area. Then, we used the Geodetector Model to explore the main factors and their interactions affecting vegetation restoration effectiveness. We found that the vegetation restoration effectiveness in the entire area was dominated by annual precipitation, in the northern part of the study area was led by climate, and in the southern part of the study area was dominated by ecological engineering. We further demonstrated that the interaction between ecological engineering and climate, soil conditions, geographical background and socioeconomic had the synergistic effect on vegetation restoration effectiveness, and the interaction between ecological engineering and annual precipitation had the greatest impact. We recommend that the northern region of the BTSSR continue to build low-density wind and sand control forests, while the southern region needs to be strengthened to prevent soil erosion problems caused by the expansion of human activities.
Surviving a crisis: A multilevel model of leadership styles, employees’ psychological capital and organizational resilience
Authors: Njaramba Faith , Olukuru John
Published: February 2025

Building on the emerging research on organizational resilience in crisis, we tested a model of transformational and directive leadership styles and their association with organizational resilience in a crisis via employees’ psychological capital. Three hundred and one small and medium sized enterprises in Kenya provided usable survey data. The hypotheses were tested using multilevel structural equation modelling (MSEM) technique. The results show that both transformational and directive leadership styles were significant and positive predictors of organizational resilience through the mediating role of employees’ psychological capital. From a practical perspective, as SMEs struggle to be resilient during crises, leaders should adopt effective leadership styles such as transformational and directive and also consider their employees’ psychological experience of a crisis.
Early changes in microRNA expression in Arabidopsis plants infected with the fungal pathogen Fusarium graminearum
Authors: Ferreira Savio S. , Pandey Suman , Hemminger Jesseca , Bozdag Serdar , Antunes Mauricio S.
Published: February 2025

Plants respond to biotic stressors by modulating various processes in an attempt to limit the attack by a pathogen or herbivore. Triggering these different defense processes requires orchestration of a network of proteins and RNA molecules that includes microRNAs (miRNAs). These short RNA molecules (20–22 nucleotides) have been shown to be important players in the early responses of plants to stresses because they can rapidly regulate the expression levels of a network of downstream genes. The ascomycete Fusarium graminearum is an important fungal pathogen that causes significant losses in cereal crops worldwide. Using the well-characterized Fusarium-Arabidopsis pathosystem, we investigated how plants change expression of their miRNAs globally during the early stages of infection by F. graminearum. We have created a catalog of miRNAs that have differential expression in infected samples even before any visual symptoms of the infection are present. In addition to miRNAs that have been previously implicated in stress responses, we have also identified evolutionarily young miRNAs whose levels change significantly in response to fungal infection. Some of these young miRNAs have homologs present in cereals, which suggest that some of these miRNAs could be drivers of stress response. By examining if the miRNAs in this catalog have causal roles in plant infection response, a unique path toward development of plants with increased resistance to fungal pathogens can be developed.
Libertad de cátedra, autonomía universitaria y libertad de enseñanza como proyección de derechos fundamentales en el ordenamiento jurídico paraguayo
Authors: González Valdez Violeta
Published: February 2025

El presente trabajo revisa el ordenamiento positivo del Paraguay en relación con la libertad de cátedra. Se realiza un análisis hermenéutico de la Constitución y la ley de educación superior, así como de la exégesis efectuada por la Corte Suprema de Justicia a través de su jurisprudencia, en el marco del alcance y los límites de la autonomía universitaria y la libertad de enseñanza en conjunción con otros derechos fundamentales. Asimismo, se contrastan estos criterios jurisprudenciales con los de la doctrina del Tribunal Constitucional español. Finalmente, se extraen los estándares internacionales de derechos humanos relacionados con el tema y se presenta una construcción conceptual de la libertad de cátedra como concreción de la vigencia de derechos fundamentales.
The Relationship between the Jhungrojhung Tradition in Kajjan Village and the Hadith of Make an Easy on Others
Authors: Abdul Hakim Al Hasan , Fathur Rozi  , Mustofa  , Holil  , Moh. As’ad
Published: February 2025

Mutual cooperation, which are a characteristic of Indonesian society have experienced many shifts because the motive is no longer caring for the surrounding community, but the money that is the reward. However, there are still forms of cooperation practices based on caring, such as those in Kajjan Village which is called Jhungrojhung. This article discusses the relationship between the practice of jhungrojhung and the hadith of the Prophet as its main basis. Furthermore, this research focuses on two problem formulations; First, what is the essence of the Jhungrojhung tradition in Kajjan Village, District. Blega Kab. Bangkalan?; and second, how does the Jhungrojhung Tradition correlate with the hadith of the Prophet saw? These questions were analyzed using a qualitative approach based on field studies and supported by a phenomenological approach. As a result, there was no shift in values ​​in the practice of Jhungrojhung in Kajjan village because there was no economic class dichotomy in the Kajjan village community. Apart from that, the Prophet's hadith regarding for people who assist others is the main motivation and practical basis for this practice, so its existence can still be felt today.
From the Editor: Looking Ahead in Hindsight
Authors: Reilly Jennifer
Published: February 2025

From the Editor: Looking Ahead in Hindsight
A Centennial In Review: Some Events In Optometry One Hundred Years Ago
Authors: Goss David
Published: February 2025

This paper describes a sampling of events in optometry in 1924. Included are discussions of meetings of the American Optometric Association and the American Academy of Optometry; work of the International Board of Examiners in Optometry; the first year of the Northwest Journal of Optometry which was the precursor of today’s journal Optometry and Vision Science; and optometry schools attended by optometrists practicing in 1924.
Report On Blast From the Past Student Challenge, 2024
Authors: Davis Viktoria
Published: February 2025

Report On Blast From the Past Student Challenge, 2024
Essay On Dr. Donald R. Korb
Authors: Saflo Toqua
Published: February 2025

Essay On Dr. Donald R. Korb
InfantSEE: A Brief History
Authors: Denton Jared
Published: February 2025

InfantSEE: A Brief History
A Look Into Optometry’s First Female Practitioner: Gertrude Stanton
Authors: Pak Min-Ju
Published: February 2025

A Look Into Optometry’s First Female Practitioner: Gertrude Stanton
News
Authors: Brown Molly
Published: February 2025

News
Dual-Band Power Divider with Wide Suppression Band
Authors: Mohamadpour Golshan , Karimi Salman , Roshani Saeed
Published: February 2025

In this paper, a planar dual-band Wilkinson power divider (DWPD) with a triangular-shaped resonator is designed. This work stands out from existing designs by addressing key limitations in conventional power dividers, i.e., physical size, harmonic suppression, and insertion loss. The proposed triangular shaped resonator has a compact size of 9.9 mm × 3.4 mm (0.26 λg × 0.09 λg ), where λg is electrical wavelength at 5.9 GHz, and provides a wide suppression band from 7.1 GHz to 20.6 GHz with a 20 dB attenuation level. In the proposed DWPD structure, two triangular shaped resonators are used in two branches. It works at 3.6 GHz and 5.5 GHz with <0.1 dB insertion loss at both operating bands. The input and output return losses and ports isolation parameters at both bands are better than 20 dB, which show good performance of the divider at operating bands. Besides the acceptable performance, the proposed DWPD provides a wide suppression band from 6.8 GHz to 20.5 GHz with more than 20dB attenuation level. In the divider design, the neural network is employed to model a triangular-shaped resonator. The proposed neural network has two outputs (S11 and S21), and two hidden layers with eight neurons at each layer. The weights of each neuron are obtained using particle swarm optimization algorithms. The proposed neural network model has accurate results, and the mean relative error of the train and test data for both outputs is <0.1 , which validates the accurate results of the proposed model.
Latent concepts for area enhancement of mangrove forest: A novel approach through geospatial studies
Authors: Gowda S R , Pazhanivelan S , Kumaraperumal R , Raju M , Prabu P C
Published: February 2025

Despite their vital roles in carbon sequestration, biodiversity conservation and coastal protection, mangrove ecosystems have historically faced degradation from pollution, deforestation and human activity. Mangrove restoration faces several challenges, including deforestation due to unsustainable logging for timber and fuelwood, as well as habitat loss from coastal development projects such as ports and resorts. The expansion of aquaculture, particularly shrimp farming, has led to the large-scale conversion of mangrove areas into degraded or unproductive land. Huge restoration projects have been started all over the world to deal with these issues. Geospatial technologies such as GIS (Geographic Information System), GPS (Global Positioning System), remote sensing and satellite imagery have made it easier to find suitable sites for restoration, which was a challenging task in the past. These technologies also enable the acquisition of large amounts of data. Topography, soil quality, land use and biodiversity are some of the factors that influence the process of identifying possible restoration sites. Although obstacles like ecosystem complexity, lack of data and methodological constraints still exist, developments in machine learning and radar remote sensing provide promising paths to obtaining vital information. Conservation efforts are being bolstered by data integration and predictive modeling-driven evidence-based rehabilitation strategies. This review examines the cutting-edge geospatial technologies and their critical role in surmounting obstacles and promoting the rehabilitation and re-establishment of mangrove habitats.
Exploring the impact of heat waves on early crop growth in sugarcane clones
Authors: Thirumurugan T , Tamilchelvan A , Sassikumar D , Thangeswari S , Porkodi G , Anitha R , Chitra S , Nithila S
Published: February 2025

Sugarcane, a vital crop for sugar production and increasingly important for biofuels, faces challenges due to frequent and unusual weather patterns as well as rising temperatures. Heat stress poses a significant threat to plant health, leading to dehydration, reduced photosynthesis, stunted growth and ultimately diminished yields. This study evaluates heat stress tolerance in 32 sugarcane clones selected from a group of 1,261 clones based on their high Brix percentage and early vigour. Plant height was recorded at 15-day intervals and revealed a significant reduction between days 76 to 90, with an average increase of only 7.8 cm in plant height compared to an overall increase of32.7 cm. This period coincided with an eight-day severe heat wave reported by the Indian Meteorological Department. Despite the stress, five clones exhibited normal growth during this period, demonstrating their potential resilience. The study identified these promising heat-tolerant clones as candidates for breeding programs aimed at developing varieties with enhanced heat stress resilience.
Navigating the Oesophagus: Case Series on Tackling Complications Post-Esophagectomy in Achalasia Patients
Authors:   Dept of Surgery, University Kebangsaan, Cheras, Malaysia, Yazfa Aminath
Published: February 2025

Achalasia, a primary esophageal motility disorder, manifests as impaired peristalsis and dysfunctional relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter. Treatment aims to alleviate the functional obstruction at the gastroesophageal junction, facilitating esophageal emptying. For end-stage cases, esophagectomy is often recommended as the primary intervention, despite the considerable postoperative complications it entails. In this case series, we present instances of various complications post-McKeown's esophagectomy in achalasia patients with sigmoid oesophagus. These complications encompass anastomotic strictures, leaks, hydrothorax, tracheal injury, and laryngeal nerve damage.