bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Arthroscopic treatment of scaphoid nonunion, a new algorithm after six years practice
Authors: Windhofer Christian , Ivusic Patrik , Jakob Peter , Lill Markus , Schauer Josef
Published: January 2025

Introduction:
Scaphoid nonunion is still a challenging problem in hand surgery. Till now most of the patients have been treated with open revision, bone grafting and internal stabilization.
Arthroscopy plays an increasing role in hand surgery since the last decade. Three years after starting the use of arthroscopic treatment of scaphoid nonunion we analyzed our results and modified our therapy protocol.
Material and Methods:
In 2017, we started arthroscopic treatment of scaphoid nonunion at our department. Debridement is done arthroscopically as well as insertion of radius cancellous bone graft. Fixation has been accomplished with K-wires and/or head compression screws percutaneously, by help of x-ray.
Till 2020, we treated 24 patients, observing three delayed unions, treated successfully by extra corporal shockwave therapy and modifying the fixation.
Analyzing these results, we modified our fixation methods and all patients, got shockwave therapy additionally.
Results:
Comparing the success rate with the 28 operated after 2020, the adaption of our algorithm showed an improvement of our results concerning healing rate. There we found only one ongoing nonunion in the proximal 1/3. The median time to healing was comparable in the two groups, operation time showed no significant difference.
After a median follow-up of 30 months, we found an excellent range of motion, a significant reduction in pain and grip strength matchable with the unaffected hand in all 52 patients. DASH and Mayo Wrist Score showed satisfactory results, and 45 patients came back to their earlier occupation and sports.
Conclusion:
Arthroscopy has a fix place in the algorithm for scaphoid nonunion in our institution. We think an adequate and stabile fixation adopted to the section of the nonunion is indispensable.
The distal radius is a sufficient donor-site for cancellous bone grafting.
Extra corporal shockwave therapy should be used routinely in scaphoid nonunion.
Level of evidence: IV
Harnessing Artificial Intelligence for Language Learning: A Mixed-Methods Study on ChatGPT Integration in Secondary Education
Authors: Jose Luijim
Published: January 2025

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in education holds transformative potential, particularly in language learning. This study explores the integration of ChatGPT into secondary school language education in the Philippines, addressing key challenges such as lack of personalized feedback, low engagement, and limited resources. Employing a mixed-methods approach, data were collected through surveys from 150 teachers and 500 students and focus group discussions. Findings reveal that ChatGPT effectively supports vocabulary development, grammar exercises, and conversational practice, significantly enhancing student engagement and tailoring instruction to diverse learner needs. Teachers highlighted the need for training workshops and technical support to ensure effective implementation. The study culminates in the development of a practical handbook, providing educators and learners with actionable strategies for leveraging ChatGPT in language learning. These strategies include customizable prompts, interactive simulations, and techniques to address challenges in traditional language instruction. This research underscores the potential of AI to create inclusive, adaptive, and engaging educational environments, paving the way for scalable improvements in language education.
Impact of Sarcopenia During Induction Treatment in Patients with Unresectable Locally Advanced Pancreatic Cancer: A Scoring Model for indication of Conversion Surgery
Authors: Uemura Sho , Tanaka Masayuki , Kitago Minoru , Yagi Hiroshi , Abe Yuta , Hasegawa Yasushi , Hori Shutaro , Nakano Yutaka , Kitagawa Yuko
Published: January 2025

Background
Chemotherapeutic advances have increased opportunities for conversion surgery (CS) of unresectable locally advanced (UR-LA) pancreatic cancer (PC). However, the optimal indications for CS remain unclear. We aimed to identify predictive factors of prognosis in UR-LA PC, and evaluate indication for CS using these factors including sarcopenia.
Methods
In this retrospective study, we reviewed consecutive patients with UR-LA PC who had received chemo(radio)therapy as an initial treatment between 2015 and 2023. We examined relevant clinical variables and CT findings at initial diagnosis and at 6 months after starting treatment.
Results
Ten of the 41 patients had undergone CS. Tumor size at 6 months, clinical lymph node metastasis at diagnosis, and changes in sarcopenia over 6 months were associated with overall survival (OS) (multivariate analysis: hazard ratio = 3.25, 2.79 and 3.51, respectively). Each of these factors was assigned a value of 1, resulting in a scoring system ranging from 0 to 3 points. There was a significant difference in OS between the patients who scored 0 points and those who scored 1 to 3 points (median OS: 30.3 months v.s. 17.3 months, P = 0.013). CS was associated with better OS among patients who scored 0 (not reached v.s. 25.5 months, P = 0.039).
Conclusions
Change in sarcopenia is a novel predictor of the prognosis of patients with UR-LA PC. Patients with favorable scores in our simple scoring model, which incorporates three prognostic factors identified by the current analysis, may achieve better survival after CS than that achieved induction therapy alone.
NcFER1 and NcRbohC1 regulates pollen germination on stigma after pollination in waterlily
Authors: Wang Jing-Hua , Cao Jing , Yang Zhi-Juan , Jin Qi-Jiang , Wang Yan-Jie , Su Qun , Wang Hong-Yan , Sun Chun-Qing , Xu Ying-Chun
Published: January 2025

The hybridization between hardy and tropical waterlilies is the main way to breed new varieties of waterlilies with strong cold resistance and rich flower colors. However, there is a hybridization barrier between hardy and tropical waterlilies, which seriously affects the breeding process of waterlilies. Therefore, it is necessary to study the mechanism of hybridization barriers in waterlilies. The results showed that the pollen of tropical waterlily could not germinate on the stigma of hardy waterlily. ROS plays an important role in the recognition of pollen and stigma of waterlily during pollination, and is involved in the regulation of pollen germination on stigma of waterlily. Rbohs is the main source of ROS in stigma of waterlily, and NcFER1 and NcRbohC1 are the main regulatory factors of ROS in stigma of waterlily. These results suggest that pre-fertilization barrier is the main cause of hybridization barrier between hardy and tropical waterlilies. NcRbohC1 may be the downstream element of NcFER1 in waterlily, and NcFER1 may regulate the metabolism of ROS in stigma of waterlily through the signaling pathway of FER-Rac/Rops-Rbohs, but its specific mechanism remains unclear.
Prediction of Prognosis in Brain Metastasis with Artificial-intelligence-driven Methods for Whole Brain Radiotherapy
Authors: Ozkan Emine Elif , Serel Tekin Ahmet
Published: January 2025

Background: Inferentially 24%–45% of cancer patients develop brain metastases in their course. Individual survival estimation for these patients is substantial to distinguish the subset of patients who may not benefit from whole brain irradiation (WBI) due to a short survival time.
Aim: This study aimed to search on variables and evaluate an artificial intelligence algorithm to identify the subgroup of patients who will benefit from WBI.
Methods: The data of 345 patients with brain metastasis who were treated with 30 Gy in 10 fractions of WBI were retrospectively analyzed. In this cohort totally 15 clinical / laboratory factors are evaluated with 15 models of machine learning algorithms using Python 2.3, Pycaret library.
Results: Gradient Boosting Regressor was found to be the accurate modelling with a 0.68 R2 value and 12.90 mean absolute value (MAE). Prediction error for gradient Boosting Regressor was calculated as R2: 0.841. When the importance of features was investigated, time from diagnosis to metastasis was found to be the most important predictive variable for survival.
Conclusion: The results of this study enables to identify patients who may have early death and provides a consequential decision guide in terms of whole brain radiotherapy or additional labor intense techniques.
Analysis of the factors affecting the pelvic floor muscle strength of women in the early postpartum period by different modes of delivery
Authors: Lin HuanYu , Lu XuHong , Zhang Fan , Yu Shu , Yu Min , Gao TianMing , Wei Wei , Wang QiuYue , Song Dan , Liu YiLei
Published: January 2025

Background
The detrimental impacts of childbirth and other factors on pelvic floor muscle strength compromise women's physiological and psychological well-being, and specialists have yet to achieve consensus regarding the effects of various delivery methods on pelvic floor muscle strength. This article examines the impact of various delivery procedures on pelvic floor muscle strength during the early postpartum phase.
Methods
A total of 1154 women who delivered in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Zhongshan Hospital, Dalian University, and underwent pelvic floor surface electromyography assessment at 6–8 weeks postpartum were selected as study subjects. They were categorized into vaginal delivery and cesarean section groups based on the mode of delivery, to analyze the risk factors affecting pelvic floor muscular strength in the early postpartum period for both groups.
Results
In vaginal delivery, hypertension, episiotomy, and perineal laceration were all independent risk factors for abnormal anterior resting potentials; second stage of labor ≥ 2h, episiotomy, and perineal laceration were all independent risk factors for abnormal fast muscle potentials; weight gain of > 16kg during pregnancy, second stage of labor ≥ 2h, episiotomy, and perineal laceration were all independent risk factors for abnormal slow muscle potentials; and episiotomy and perineal laceration were all independent risk factors for abnormal posterior resting potentials. Among cesarean deliveries, pre-pregnancy BMI > 24 kg/m2, pregnancy weight gain of 11.5–16 kg, and hypertension were independent risk factors for abnormal anterior resting potentials; pre-pregnancy BMI > 24 kg/m2 and pre-eclampsia were independent risk factors for abnormal fast muscle potentials; a history of uterine leiomyosarcoma was an independent risk factor for abnormal slow muscle potentials; and pregnancy weight gain of > 16 kg and premature rupture of the membranes were all independent risk factors for abnormal posterior resting potentials; perineal incision and perineal laceration were all independent risk factors for abnormal posterior resting potentials. Preterm rupture of fetal membranes were independent risk factors for abnormalities of the posterior resting potential.
Conclusions
Labor and delivery can adversely affect pelvic floor muscular strength to varying extents; nevertheless, cesarean sections provide some protective benefits to pelvic floor muscle strength, albeit they may induce resting muscle tension in the pelvic floor. The independent risk variables influencing early pelvic floor muscle strength differ between the two groups. The ideal method of delivery for women should be determined based on the current labor circumstances to facilitate a seamless delivery.
Higher incidence of trocar site hernia with gallbladder extraction via umbilical versus epigastric trocar port: a multicentre retrospective analysis of laparoscopic cholecystectomy
Authors: Bodegraven Eduard A. , Oosterwijk Paulieke C , Aalten Sanne M. , Schaafsma Boudewijn E , Smeenk Robert M
Published: January 2025

Background
Trocar site hernia (TSH) is a known complication of laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC). Gallbladder extraction is typically performed through the umbilical or epigastric trocar port. However, data on the incidence of TSH in relation to the extraction site is limited. This study aimed to evaluate the need for surgical repair of TSH following gallbladder extraction through the umbilical versus epigastric trocar port.
Methods
A retrospective cohort study was conducted across two Dutch general hospitals. It assessed the occurrence of TSH after LC and examined commonly described risk factors in relation to the TSH location.
Results
Among 2 377 patients that underwent LC, the extraction site of the gallbladder was known in 1756 patients. Gallbladder extraction was performed via the umbilical trocar port in 929 (53%) of cases and via the epigastric trocar port in 827 (47%) of cases. TSH repair was required in 36 (2.1%) patients, with a higher incidence in patients with gallbladder extraction through the umbilical trocar port (3.2%) compared to the epigastric trocar port (0.7%), (p < 0.001).
Conclusion
The need for operative repair of a TSH after a LC is significantly reduced when the gallbladder is retrieved through the epigastric trocar site port compared to the umbilical trocar site port.
Practice Variation in the Use of Steroid-sparing Therapies in Childhood Steroid Sensitive Nephrotic Syndrome: Results from a Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Aguilar-González Angie , Zardynezhad Ava , Morgan Catherine , Dart Allison , Mammen Cherry , Parekh Rulan , Geier Pavel , Benoit Genevieve , Filler Guido , Feber Janusz , Tee James , Arora Steven , Noone Damien , Grisaru Silviu , Chanchlani Rahul , Okpere Augustina , Samuel Susan
Published: January 2025

Background
Steroid-sparing therapies are often used to prolong disease remission while minimizing steroid toxicity in childhood steroid-sensitive nephrotic syndrome (SSNS). This study aims to describe practice variation in the use of steroid-sparing medications for childhood SSNS in Canada.
Methods
Children (1–18 years) with nephrotic syndrome (NS) from eleven Pediatric nephrology centers in Canada were enrolled into the Canadian Childhood Nephrotic Syndrome (CHILDNEPH) prospective cohort from 2013–2019. Data, including time to first relapse for children treated with cyclophosphamide, tacrolimus, mycophenolate, cyclosporine and rituximab were analyzed using summary statistics. Participants who received steroid-sparing therapies prior to enrolment were excluded.
Results
Of the 371 children enrolled, 321 (86.5%) had SSNS and 133 met the study criteria. Median age at enrollment was 3.0 years (IQR: 2.0-6.3). Median follow-up period was 3.0 years (IQR 1.0–4.0). Timing of initiation and choice of steroid-sparing therapy varied across centers. The majority (72.2%) initiated therapies after a median of 3 relapses (IQR: 2–4). Cyclophosphamide and tacrolimus were the most frequently used initial therapies at 39.1% and 23.3% respectively. Thirty (22.6%) patients switched to a second medication after a median time of 4 months (IQR 0.25-11); of which, 40% switched from either cyclophosphamide or mycophenolate to tacrolimus. There were no statistically significant differences in time to first relapse with initial therapies (log rank P-value 0.36).
Conclusions
Significant variation in the use of steroid-sparing therapies exists in the treatment of SSNS. A clinical trial is needed to examine the efficacy of these medications to optimize treatment and decrease practice variation.
Demographic and Prognostic Factors Affecting Survival in Invasive Mucinous Adenocarcinoma: A National Cancer Database Analysis
Authors: Demangone Michael Richard , Hsia Beau , Malan Augustus , Taghizadeh Catherine , Moroz Mark , Brown Timothy J.
Published: January 2025

Purpose
Invasive mucinous adenocarcinoma (IMA) is a rare lung tumor with a distinctive histology of goblet and columnar cells characterized by diverse growth patterns. The outcomes and prognosis of IMA are poorly defined owing to its rarity. This study uses the National Cancer Database (NCDB) to study the demographic and prognostic factors affecting the overall survival and mortality rates of IMA patients.
Methods
We identified IMA patients from the NCDB (2004–2020) using ICD-O-3 code 8253. Time-to-event outcomes were analyzed with Kaplan-Meier, log-rank tests, and Cox regression models to assess factors influencing survival.
Results
A total of 6202 IMA patients were identified. Older age was linked to poorer survival (2-year = 53.6%, 5-year = 30.9%, 10-year = 12.4%). Female patients had better survival rates than males (2-year = 70.8% vs. 60.7%, p < 0.001). Lower income (<$46,277 and $46,227-$57,856) and lack of radiation therapy were associated with higher mortality (HR = 1.35, p < 0.001). Medicaid insurance also correlated with worse survival compared to private insurance (HR = 1.46, p < 0.001).
Conclusion
Male gender, Black or White race, and lower income brackets were associated with increased mortality in IMA. Further, being insured by Medicaid and not undergoing radiation therapy are associated with poorer survival outcomes.
A Middle-aged Man with Dyspnea and Hoarseness: An Unusual Case of Vocal Cord Paralysis
Authors: Tabatabaeifar Seyedeh Nadia , Ahmadpour Mahsa , Fallahi Mohammad Javad
Published: January 2025

Background: Pleuroparenchymal fibroelastosis (PPFE) is a rare and distinct form of interstitial pneumonia predominantly affecting the upper lung zones. It is characterized by fibrotic thickening of the visceral pleura and adjacent subpleural parenchyma. While common complications include spontaneous pneumothorax and pneumomediastinum, vocal cord paralysis (VCP) or paresis has been increasingly recognized as a potential manifestation in recent reports. This case highlights the unique association between idiopathic PPFE (IPPFE) and VCP, emphasizing its novelty and clinical relevance.Case presentation: We report a case of a middle-aged man presenting with progressive dyspnea, hoarseness, and left-sided vocal cord paralysis. Imaging studies revealed upper lobe-dominant fibrotic changes consistent with IPPFE. A comprehensive evaluation ruled out secondary causes of PPFE and other potential etiologies of VCP. Despite supportive management, the patient’s VCP persisted, likely due to architectural distortion of the lung affecting the recurrent laryngeal nerve pathway.Conclusions: This case adds to the limited but growing body of literature on the association between PPFE and VCP. Understanding this rare complication is crucial for early recognition and appropriate management, as it highlights the diverse clinical manifestations of PPFE and its impact on patient outcomes.
"Totally No Tube" laparoscopic technique in the management of adrenal diseases: a safe and efficient practice
Authors: Cui Yun , Zhou Xiaoguang , Cui Liyan , Kang Na , Zhou Quan , Xu Tong , Zeng Song , Li Xin , Song Liming
Published: January 2025

Background
Laparoscopic adrenal surgery has become a common procedure for some adrenal diseases. The necessity of surgical related tubes, such as abdominal drainage tubes, catheters and endotracheal tubes, are controversial. These materials may induce regional tissue inflammation and be accompanied with uncomfortable. In this study, we evaluated the safety and feasibility of “Totally No Tube (TNT)” transperitoneal laparoscopic technique in adrenal surgery.
Methods
From January 2021 to December 2023, a total of 67 patients who were underwent TNT laparoscopic adrenal surgery were reviewed, and 78 patients who were underwent conventional laparoscopic adrenal surgery were included as the control group. A retrospectively analysis was conducted on indicators such as the time of anesthesia and operation, intraoperative blood loss, postoperative hospital stay, postoperative visual analogue scale, Quality of Recovery-40 score, time to first ambulation after surgery, total hospitalization cost, and postoperative complications in both groups.
Results
All 145 patients underwent surgery without grade II-IV complications. The TNT group showed significantly shorter postoperative hospital stay, lower postoperative pain score, better QOR-40 score, earlier ambulation after surgery, lower total hospitalization cost, and fewer certain postoperative complications. There were no significant differences in anesthesia time, operation time, and intraoperative blood loss.
Conclusion
TNT transperitoneal laparoscopic adrenal surgery is safe and well tolerated when strict selection criteria are followed. It indicates a similar rate of postoperative complications compared to the common laparoscopic approaches. Concurrently, it offers advantages such as less postoperative discomfort, more satisfaction with recovery from surgery, and lower healthcare expenditure.
Designing an Electromechanical Capture System for In-Air Capturing of Winged RLVs
Authors: Luyten Briek , Singh Sunayna , Zandbergen B.T.C.
Published: January 2025

In-air capturing (IAC) is a promising concept for recovering winged reusable launch vehicles (RLVs) using a towing aircraft(TA), without the need for any propulsion on board the RLV. In this paper, the preliminary electromechanical design ofan airborne device is presented, which is central to this IAC technique. The device is an autonomous system, towedby the TA, and docks with a boom attached to the nose of the RLV. A design space exploration and load analysis areperformed using a simplified towing model, revealing significantly higher towing loads compared to previous estimates.The design of a probe-drogue docking mechanism is proposed, which uses a set of actuated wedges to lock the RLVboom in place. Actuator and sensor solutions are studied, aiming at a redundant and robust mechanism design. Basedon reference commercial components, the size, weight, and power (SWaP) footprints of essential avionics are estimated,and a preliminary dimensioning of the required battery system is performed. Finally, a comprehensive, electromechanicalcomputer-aided design (CAD) model is developed, with which the overall inertial properties of the vehicle are estimated.The position of its centre of gravity is studied, revealing the need for a forward trim mass. Compared to previous designstudies, the estimated total mass is increased to 175.44 kg, while the design’s overall safety factor grows to 1.51.
The Relationship Between Vitamin D, Cardiovascular Health, and Periodontitis in US Adults
Authors: yang Fu , lei Sun
Published: January 2025

Background
Vitamin D deficiency is a prevalent public health issue, and serum vitamin D concentrations are linked to the risk of periodontitis. This study aims to investigate the relationship between these two variables and to determine whether this association is influenced by various factors, particularly focusing on the mediating effect of cardiovascular health (CVH).
Methods
Data was extracted from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) database for the years 2009–2014 in this cross-sectional study. The association between vitamin D and periodontitis was examined using univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses, as well as restricted cubic spline models. Additionally, subgroup analyses and restricted cubic splines were employed to assess the effects of glucose tolerance status, age, gender, smoking status, and alcohol consumption on the association. Mediation analysis was conducted to explore whether LE8 scores serve as a mediator in the relationship between vitamin D and periodontitis.
Results
Among 12,714 adults, 4,522 (35.5%) were diagnosed with periodontitis, with the proportions of Mild, Moderate, and Severe Chronic Periodontitis being 279 (2.2%), 3,438 (27.0%), and 805 (6.3%), respectively. After fully adjusting for confounding factors, negative associations were observed between vitamin D levels and periodontitis. Quartile comparisons indicated Q2: 0.91 (0.82 ~ 1.00), Q3: 0.88 (0.79 ~ 0.99), and Q4: 0.89 (0.78 ~ 1.01). In subgroup analyses, vitamin D was significantly associated with periodontitis across various strata, including age, sex, and glucose tolerance status. Interaction analysis revealed that age significantly influenced the relationship between vitamin D and periodontitis. Mediation analyses utilizing Life's Essential 8 (LE8) assessed cardiovascular health (CVH), demonstrating that the LE8 score and health factor score mediated the relationship between vitamin D and periodontitis, with mediation proportions of 8.71% and 7.11%, respectively.
Conclusion
We concluded that increased vitamin D levels were associated with a decreased risk of periodontitis. The LE8 score and health factor score demonstrated critical mediating effects in the relationship between vitamin D and periodontitis. This study highlighted the intricate interplay among vitamin D, cardiovascular health (CVH), and periodontitis, providing insights into potential avenues for intervention and management.
Comparison of the Computational time of An Improved Quasi Equally Informative Subsets in Feature Selection
Authors: Safyan Abubakar . I. , Sani Zaharaddeen , Abubakar Mukhtar
Published: January 2025

This paper presents an enhanced feature selection method, the Improved Quasi Equally Informative Subsets in Feature Selection (QEISS), which addresses the computational inefficiencies of traditional approaches. By integrating Extreme Learning Machines (ELM) with the Non-dominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm II (NSGA-II), the improved method achieves faster execution times without sacrificing accuracy. The study introduces both a filter-based and wrapper-based QEISS variant, demonstrating consistent reductions in computational time across various high-dimensional datasets from the UCI repository. The method provides a balance between feature relevance, redundancy, subset size, and classification accuracy, marking a significant advancement in multi-objective feature selection.
Economic and environmental impacts of commercial milk formula in Indonesia: Estimates and comparisons using the Cost of Not Breastfeeding, Green Feeding, and Mothers’ Milk Tools
Authors: Septiani Nabila Nur , Pramono Andini , Nguyen Tuan Thanh , Mathisen Roger , Smith Julie
Published: January 2025

Background: Sales of commercial milk formula products (CMF) are rising rapidly. This study aims to analyse the key economic and environmental impacts CMF feeding in Indonesia.
Methods: We assessed the economic and environmental impacts of CMF in Indonesia in 2020 using the Mothers’ Milk Tool (MMT), the Green Feeding Tool (GFT) and the Cost of Not Breastfeeding Tool (CONBF). We compared estimated values from these tools and assessed them against calculations using Euromonitor data on CMF retail sales in Indonesia.
Results: In 2020, according to the MMT, women in Indonesia produced around 455 million litres of breastmilk for infants aged <6 months, which had an estimated monetary value of US$45.5 billion. The MMT and GFT shows substantial economic losses from displacement of breastfeeding in Indonesia; 62-96 million litres of breastmilk were lost in 2020 compared to the biologically feasible potential. The GFT tool calculates a carbon footprint of 214-272 million kg of CO2 eq. and a water footprint of 92,460 million litres. The CONBF estimates that the annual cost to families of purchasing CMF for infants aged <24 months was US$598.6 million. By comparison, Euromonitor retail sales data suggests that in 2020, the retail value of sales of CMF products targeting this age group was around US$2.25 billion. Euromonitor also reports 27,200 tonnes of CMF products targeting infants <6 months were sold in Indonesia in 2020. We calculate a carbon footprint from these sales of 299-381 million kg CO2 eq. and a water footprint of 129,064 million litres, considerably higher than the GFT estimate.
Conclusions: Breastfeeding's economic importance to Indonesia far surpasses the retail value of CMF sales. Displacing breastfeeding has high but largely undocumented economic and environmental costs. Economic losses are higher when measured as a food resource than when measured as health costs, lost lives, or cognition losses. Environmental impacts that are estimated using sales data are considerably higher than from using survey data. Our results expose a critical gap in national statistics, and a renewed imperative to recognise the milk women provide through breastfeeding as an economically valuable, healthy and sustainable national resource in Indonesia.
Efficacy and safety of finerenone in non-diabetic CKD patients: a single-center, real-world, retrospective study
Authors: Li Yu , Feng Jiaxing , Guo Xiaodan , Zhang Wusijie , Yang Ting , Guan Tianjun , Xu Bo
Published: January 2025

Background
Finerenone, a novel non-steroidal mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist, has shown promising efficacy and safety profiles in the management of chronic kidney disease (CKD) associated with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). However, the effectiveness and safety of finerenone on non-diabetic CKD patients require further investigation.
Methods
This retrospective, real-world study involved non-diabetic CKD patients from April 2023 to June 2024. Participants received finerenone alongside standard CKD treatment. Primary clinical results included changes in the urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratio (UACR), estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), and serum potassium (sK+) levels. The data were collected initially and during follow-ups at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months.
Results
In total, 37 non-diabetic CKD patients were included in the population; 21 individuals (56.8%) were male, and the mean age was 48.84 ± 14.69 years. During the follow-up, there was a notable decrease in UACR, with a median reduction of 664.95 mg/g (IQR, 196.60-1226.70, P = 0.002). The baseline average eGFR was 70.80 ± 27.97 mL/min/1.73m2, with no notable alterations observed during the follow-up (P > 0.05). In terms of safety analysis, the sK + levels were within the 3.5–5.5 mmol/L range, with no significant difference from the baseline (P > 0.05). No patients discontinued treatment or were hospitalized because of hyperkalemia.
Conclusion
Real-world practice indicates that finerenone is effective and safe for non-diabetic CKD patients, but further large-scale, prospective studies are needed to confirm these findings.
The First Landing of Flying Gurnard (Dactyloptena orientalis, Cuvier, 1829) at Ratnagiri, Maharashtra State, the Western Coast of India: An Ecological Overview
Authors: Jadhav Rakesh R. , Jadhav Diksha R. , Kazi Tousif G. , Kamble Sushil C. , Mirajkar Nilesh B. , Burte Rohit B.
Published: January 2025

Background
The present study aimed to report the first landing of the flying gurnard (Dactyloptena orientalis) at Ratnagiri, Maharashtra state, the western coast of India and to explore the ecological implications. Total seven specimens were collected from the local fishermen. The identification and the detailed study of the morphology of the fish and their ecological behaviour was completed in the laboratory. This study sought to fill a critical knowledge gap on the role of the species especially along the western coast of India since the species is not commonly observed.
Results
The landing of the flying gurnard in Ratnagiri was the first spotting of the species in the region. The average standard length (TL) of the fish was measured as 118.0 ± 0.41 mm. The findings of this study show that the landing of D. orientalis might be an indication of the current status of marine biodiversity and health, therefore more focused and specialized conservation measures are required for the species and the environment it inhabits. The study also pointed out the ecological significance of D. orientalis where it acts both as a predator and a prey in the marine food web as well as being capable of withstanding different environmental conditions.
Conclusion
This study contributed to the current information of D. orientalis particularly its function in the ecosystem of marine waters off Ratnagiri. Hence, the importance of constant observation and proper management practices arise from changes in the marine environment and flexibility of other organisms in the ecosystem to acclimatize to the changing conditions. The socio-economic effects on the fishing communities suggested that the integration of this species can modify fishing techniques and market trends, thus calling for sustainability concerns.
A Bibliometric Analysis of Research Funded by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD)
Authors: Osman Ismail Ragab
Published: January 2025

This study conducts a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of research papers funded by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD), utilizing data from the Web of Science (WoS) database as of April 1, 2024. Over the past four decades, DAAD-funded publications have significantly increased, reaching a total of 43,951 papers, with an annual growth rate of 16.67%. Initially modest, the number of publications surged post-2008, peaking in 2019, though a noticeable decline occurred after 2022. These publications span 7,570 journals, with notable contributions from journals like PLOS ONE and Scientific Reports. Key publishers such as Elsevier, Springer, and Wiley collectively account for a substantial portion of these outputs, underscoring a strategic preference for established outlets to maximize research impact. The study highlights the collaborative nature of DAAD-funded research, with 96% of papers being co-authored. German scholars dominate the authorship landscape, with significant contributions from leading institutions like the University of Rostock and the Technical University of Dresden. Leading the non-German universities benefiting from DAAD funding are the Russian Academy of Sciences and China's Chinese Academy of Sciences. The citation analysis reveals a considerable impact, with an average of 26.9 citations per paper and a total of 1,182,972 citations. International collaborations are prevalent, involving 181 countries, with the United States, China, and England being prominent partners. Research areas span 151 domains, with prominent clusters in chemistry, physics, materials science, and environmental sciences. Top author keywords such as climate change, taxonomy, morphology, phylogeny, cytotoxicity, and nanoparticles illustrate the diversity and specialization across disciplines. This analysis provides valuable insights into the scope, impact, and collaborative dynamics of research supported by DAAD, emphasizing its significant contribution to global academic advancement.
GBR using PTFEE membranes
Authors: Arllati Sinan , Syka Kreshnik
Published: January 2025

Guided Bone Regeneration (GBR) is a well-established technique used to augment bone volume in edentulous areas, thereby facilitating successful dental implant placement. One critical component of GBR is the use of barrier membranes that prevent soft tissue invasion into the defect site, thus creating a space that allows for bone regeneration. In this case report, we explore the use of Porcine Trabecular Free-Edge (PTFEE) membranes in GBR to treat a bone-deficient edentulous site in the posterior maxilla. The combination of PTFEE membranes and a mixture of autogenous bone, allograft, and xenograft materials provided favorable outcomes, enabling successful implant placement.
Multi Institutional Study on Awareness of Oral Cancer among Final Year Bangladeshi Dental Students and Intern Doctors
Authors: Sadat S. M. Anwar , Jabeen Afsana , Mim Khadiza Akter , Benzadid Shadly , Rita Sufia Nasrin , Khandker Nazmul Hasan , Gain Sumonto Kumar , Rahman Sabrina Binte , Huq Aminul , Zaman Farhana , Uddin Kamal , Alam Morshed , Mahmud Manjur E , Shaheen Amir , Rinku Shaikh Ahmed , Shaikh Mushfiq Hasan , Nabi Mohammad Hayatun , Reza Selim , Zaman Asad Uz , Islam Md. Tajul
Published: January 2025

Background: Oral cancer is widely recognized as a global health concern, with an aggressive nature and high mortality rates, especially in Southeast Asia where risk factors like betel quid and tobacco use are common. Although early detection can greatly improve prognosis, limited data exists on the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of dental students and interns in Bangladesh regarding oral cancer prevention. This study aimed to assess these aspects among future dental practitioners.
Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional, questionnaire-based survey was conducted from January to March 2023 among final-year dental students and intern doctors from multiple institutions in Bangladesh. The survey utilized a 35-item questionnaire covering demographics, knowledge, practices, and attitudes toward oral cancer prevention.
Results: A total of 335 participants completed the survey. Approximately 79.1% demonstrated good knowledge of oral cancer; however, only 10.6% identified all risk factors. Furthermore, 60% exhibited poor preventive practices, with just 24.1% regularly screening patients. Attitudes were predominantly unfavorable, with 88.1% lacking confidence in screening activities. Age and gender were significantly associated with practice and attitude scores, with older and male participants scoring higher (P < 0.05).
Conclusion: The findings reveal substantial gaps in the KAP of Bangladeshi dental students and interns concerning oral cancer prevention. Addressing these gaps through curriculum enhancements, including early and practical training in cancer detection, could better prepare future practitioners for effective oral cancer management and prevention.
Oxygenation Status, Prehospital Communication, and Mode of Transportation for Critically Ill Patients: A Cross-Sectional Study in Addis Ababa Hospitals
Authors: Birhane Mayete Endale
Published: January 2025

Background
The prevalence of critical illness is increasing, posing a time-sensitive challenge to healthcare systems globally. Management of critically ill patients in emergency settings is highly dependent on prehospital care provision. Therefore, this study aimed to assess clinical profile of critically ill patients' oxygen saturation status, mode of transportation and prehospital communication upon arrival at the emergency department.
Methods
A prospective cross-sectional study was conducted at two large Addis Ababa governmental hospitals from August 20 to October 20/2023; 202 patients were recruited via convenient technique. The data were collected using a structured questionnaire which was obtained from the previous study, and analyzed using chi-square test and simple descriptive statistics such as frequencies, percentages, and means by SPSS version 27 software. The result has been explained in sentences, graphs, and tables.
Results
Among 202 study participants, the pattern of prehospital communication and hypoxia were 34/202 (16.8%) and 174/202 (86%) respectively. Ambulance usage was 94/202 (46%), with no statistically significant relationship between mode of arrival and oxygenation status.
Conclusion and Recommendation
This study highlights the inadequacy of prehospital activation and airway management emphasizing the need for real-time care and prearrival notification to optimize patient outcomes. The evidence of this paper indicated an urge for the Ministry of Health to implement well-equipped emergency medical care systems that ensure advanced resuscitation at the scene and during ambulance transfers and facilitate central prehospital communication to activate the accepting team.
Preparation and evaluation of risperidone slow-release injectable microspheres using chitosan
Authors: Latifi Parisa , Jahanshahi Amirali , Jamalara Aysan , Jammanesh Arezou , Alizadegan Dorsa
Published: January 2025

The aim of this study was preparation and evaluation of parenteral chitosan microspheres for sustained release of risperidone. Risperidone, a second-generation antipsychotic, is an effective in the treatment of schizophrenia and has a low incidence of adverse effect. Sustained release microsphere due to ascertain levels of drug in plasma, reduced toxicity and improving the efficacy of the drug. This study is done to consider the effect of four independent variables including, the drug to polymer ratio, TPP concentration, stirring speed and stirring time on the four dependent variables including, encapsulation efficiency, drug loading, particle size and the extent of initial burst in vitro release. In this study chitosan microspheres containing risperidone carried out by double emulsification/ solvent evaporation with two-step solidification process. The microspheres have been analyzed for their shape, size and surface characteristics. Interactions inside microspheres were investigated by differential scanning calorimetry and FTIR. In the following encapsulation efficiency, drug loading and burst release was investigated. The optimized formulation showed a narrow size distribution with an average of 115 ± 2 µm. The SEM image showed that microsphere was round in shape and discrete. The DSC analysis indicated the conversion of drug from crystalline state to molecular state in the optimized lyophilized formulation. FTIR analysis showed no changes in the chemical structure of risperidone in formulation. The in vitro release profile exhibited 92.3% drug release over 21 days in the sink condition.
Review: Lillie Padilla & Rosti Vana (Eds.) (2024). Representation, Inclusion and Social Justice in World Language Teaching: Research and Pedagogy for Inclusive Classrooms
Authors: Miranda Lauren
Published: January 2025

Scholars in World Language continue to underscore a critical need to center social justice in all language classrooms. Despite the extensive data illustrating this need, relatively limited resources assist instructors in implementing social justice-oriented initiatives in their classrooms. Representation, Inclusion and Social Justice in World Language Teaching: Research and Pedagogy for Inclusive Classrooms, edited by Lillie Padilla and Rosti Vana, fills this gap by serving as a comprehensive resource offering both theoretical and practical suggestions for individuals wishing to promote equity in their language learning spaces. The thirteen chapters offer stakeholders working in language departments or dual language programs perspectives that can be implemented in language classrooms, teacher preparation programs, and at the department level.
Research-based projects and reflective journals to promote student engagement in a remote online English Linguistics course for Professional Business Communication
Authors: Cucchi Costanza
Published: January 2025

The Covid-19 pandemic spurred research on the strategies and tools used in remote online teaching to support student engagement. The present study aims to contribute to this research strand by illustrating how two toolsthat were implemented for this purpose, i.e. research-based projects and reflective journals, were integrated in a remote online English Linguistics course for Professional Business Communication during the pandemic. A content analysis of students’ perceptions was conducted through the N-Vivo software programme and feedback on the course was examined. Results indicated that projects and journals positively impacted on students’ skills, knowledge and attitudes by enhancing interest and reducing the sense of isolation resulting from the lockdowns. It is therefore suggested that research-based projects and journals potentiallysupport student engagement in learning settings which may negatively affect engagement, such as remote online courses
Diverse voices, dynamic classrooms: Exploring changing demographics, pedagogical shifts, and training perspectives in Maltese multilingual primary classrooms.
Authors: Panzavecchia Michelle
Published: January 2025

Malta is a small island in the Mediterranean Sea with a history of foreign occupation and British colonisation. Although bilingualism is a quintessential feature of being Maltese, recent, rapid, and unprecedented demographic shifts are altering the country's linguistic landscape from a bilingual to a multilingual one. This situation is mirrored in Maltese schools, with classrooms becoming more linguistically and culturally diverse. This paper explores how 145 Maltese primary school educators perceive and approach teaching students with diverse language and cultural backgrounds by examining their attitudes toward employing flexible language strategies, such as code-switching. The results of this research highlight the evolving dynamics of language use in Malta and the resulting impact on its educational system. This requires the reassessment of professional development initiatives in light of the current migration patterns. The aim of this study is to ultimately develop guidance and customize practical training and consultation sessions focused on culturally and linguistically responsive teaching.
Review: Talaván, Noa, Lertola, Jennifer, and Fernández-Costales, Alberto (2024). Didactic Audiovisual Translation and foreign language education. Routledge.
Authors: Sileo Angela
Published: January 2025

Foreign language educators are constantly on the outlook for innovative ways to engage students and improve learning outcomes. Didactic Audiovisual Translation and Foreign Language Education by Noa Talaván, Jennifer Lertola, and Alberto Fernández-Costales (2024) proves to be a valuable resource in this quest, championing the use of Didactic Audiovisual Translation (DAT) as a powerful pedagogical tool.
Review: Muñoz-Basols, Javier, Fuertes Gutiérrez, Mara y Cerezo, Luis (Eds.) (2024). La enseñanza del español mediada por tecnología. De la justicia social a la Inteligencia Artificial (IA). Routledge
Authors: Heras Cristina Inés
Published: January 2025

La enseñanza de español mediada por tecnología: de la justicia social a la inteligencia artificial es un libro que presenta, desde un abordaje muy amplio, la enseñanza del español en entornos tecnológicos. Esta obra, editada por Javier Muñoz-Basols (Universidad de Sevilla y Oxford University), Mara Fuertes Gutiérrez (Open University) y Luis Cerezo (American University), fue publicada por la editorial Routledge que forma parte del grupo Taylor & Francis. Es importante destacar el gran aporte que significa esta obra tanto para personas que se dedican a la investigación como para docentes que componen la comunidad científica a cargo de enseñar y diseminar el español en el mundo, ya que es de acceso abierto (Open Access), hecho que se hace posible gracias al apoyo del programa HISPANEX y de otras instituciones mencionadas por los editores. El libro está explícitamente dirigido a profesorado y futuro profesorado, a investigadores y a quienes dirigen centros de enseñanza de lenguas segundas y extranjeras en general y de español en particular.