bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Unraveling MASLD Through the Use of Omics Technologies
Authors: Bourganou Maria V. , Chondorgianni Maria Eleni , Kyrou Ioannis , Flessa Christina-Maria , Chatzigeorgiou Antonios , Oikonomou Evangelos , Randeva Harpal S. , Kassi Eva
Published: January 2025

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), now referred to as metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), is the most prevalent liver disorder globally, linked to obesity, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular risk. Understanding its potential progression, from simple steatosis to cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), is crucial for patient management and treatment strategies. The disease's complexity requires innovative approaches for early detection and personalized care. Omics technologies—such as genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, metabolomics and exposomics—are revolutionizing the study of MASLD. These high-throughput techniques allow for a deeper exploration of the molecular mechanisms driving disease progression. Genomics can identify genetic predispositions, whilst transcriptomics and proteomics reveal changes in gene expression and protein profiles during disease evolution. Metabolomics offer insights into the metabolic alterations associated with MASLD, while exposomics links environmentak exposures to MASLD progression and pathology. By integrating data from various omics platforms, researchers can map out the intricate biochemical pathways involved in liver disease progression. This review discusses the roles of -omics technologies in enhancing understanding of disease progression and highlights potential diagnostic and therapeutic targets within MASLD spectrum, emphasizing the need for non-invasive tools in disease staging and treatment development.
Comparison of Chloroplast Genomes Reveals the Evolution of Salix
Authors: Yuan Fulin , Zhou Liwei , Wei Xueya , Shang Ce , Zhang Zhixiang
Published: January 2025

As the most diverse genus of Salicaceae, Salix is mainly distributed in the temperate zone of the northern hemisphere, with about 350 to 500 species worldwide. The evolutionary history of this genus is complicated because of the high genetic differentiation. Chloroplast genes are highly conserved, which makes it an effective tool for studying uniparental inheritance evolution. In this study, we sequenced and assembled five chloroplast genomes of representative species of Salix. The phylogenetic relationships of Salix were constructed using the chloroplast genome, and the differences in chloroplast structure among different lineages were compared. The chloroplast genomes of Salix exhibited a typical quadripartite structure, with lengths ranging from 154,444 to 155,725 bp. A total of 131 genes were successfully annotated, including 88 protein-coding genes, 35 tRNA genes, and 8 rRNA genes. Clade I had higher variability regions in the SSC region, identifying 7 highly variable regions, namely ndhD, ndhF-trnL, trnL, ccsA-ndhD, ycf1, aptF, and aptF-rps14. The rapidly evolving clpP gene was identified. The deletion site of Clade I was 169 to 269 bp in length, and the insertion site was 183 to 283 bp in length. Clade II had higher variability regions in the LSC region, with four highly variable regions identified: ndhC-trnV, psdE-petL, clpP, and ccsA. The rapidly evolving rps18 and infA genes were identified. The deletion site of Clade II was 1703 to 2984 bp in length, and the insertion site was 1556 to 2837 bp in length. This study elucidated the evolution of chloroplast genomes across different lineages of Salix, offering deeper insights into the relationships within the genus.
Identification, Characterization, and Pathogenic Investigation of Aeromonas veronii, Aeromonas hydrophila, Plesiomonas shigelloides, and Citrobacter freundii from a Case of Natural Mixed Infection in Common Carp (Cyprinus carpio)
Authors: Zhang Jinghang , Qiao Dan , Wang Haoyu , Zhao Xianliang , Jiang Xinyu , Zhu Lei , Zhang Jie , Li Li , Kong Xianghui , Pei Chao
Published: January 2025

Aeromonas veronii, Aeromonas hydrophila, Plesiomonas shigelloides, and Citrobacter freundii were opportunistic pathogen widely distributed in water environment and fish population, causing fish diseases under stressful conditions. In this study, bacteria were isolated from diseased common carp Cyprinus carpio with symptoms of hemorrhage on body surface, abdominal distention, and flatulence in the intestine. According to the results of biochemical characteristics, 16S rRNA sequencing analyses, the isolates were identified as A. veronii, A. hydrophila, P. shigelloides, and C. freundii. The experimentally infected fish showed identical symptoms as observed in the naturally infected common carp. The LD50 of C. freundii, P. shigelloides, A. veronii, A. hydrophila, and mixture group were 1.95×104, 4.74×104, 5.12×104, 1.53×105, and 5.41×104 respectively. Antibiotic resistance results showed that P. shigelloides, A. veronii, and A. hydrophila were sensitive to streptomycin, enrofloxacin, florfenicol, gentamicin, kanamycin, neomycin, norfloxacin, co-trimoxazole, ceftizoxime, and resistant to ampicillin. C. freundii was sensitive to streptomycin, gentamicin, and ceftizoxime, moderately susceptible to kanamycin, neomycin, norfloxacin, and ampicillin, and resistant to enrofloxacin, florfenicol, tetracycline, and co-trimoxazole.
Selection of Parent Materials for Alfalfa Recurrent Selection Using a Logistic Model
Authors: Wang Chuan-Jie , Jiang Jia-xiang , Cheng Hao-wen , Wei Jia , Li Jiaqing , Wei Zhenwu
Published: January 2025

In alfalfa breeding, traditional recurrent selection methods often rely on extensive field trials and empirical judg-ment, which are inefficient and lack accuracy. This experiment attempts to introduce a logistic regression model combined with the analysis of alfalfa agronomic traits to select hybrid parents for alfalfa materials, thereby improving the efficiency and accuracy of recurrent selection. Using 20 alfalfa materials as subjects, the experiment involved agronomic trait analysis, variation analysis, cluster analysis, and the construction of a logistic model to evaluate and screen the alfalfa materials. The results showed that the 20 alfalfa materials were clustered into four clusters with similar performances. Based on the growth performance at the initial flowering stage, the best-performing alfalfa in autumn and spring was in cluster II. Around the 3.5th week of spring, cluster III > cluster II, showing the fastest growth. According to the predictions from the logistic fitting curve, the growth performance of cluster IV alfalfa surpassed that of cluster II around the 7th week, which was inconsistent with the growth performance before the initial flowering stage, revealing the genetic potential of cluster IV alfalfa in plant height traits. The results indicate that the Logistic model can improve the selection accuracy in alfalfa breeding, avoid the waste of genetic resources, and provide important reference value for the selection of parents in recurrent selection of alfalfa.
Co-Morbid Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder and Mood Disorder in a South African Sample of Substance Use Disorder Patients
Authors: Truter Ilse , Oettle-Regnart Judith , Meyer Anneke
Published: January 2025

Background: The brain reward circuitry is contemplated to underlie co-occurrence of At-tention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Substance Use Disorder (SUD) and to possibly impact mood disorders. This study aimed to establish if any difference existed in the severity of depression symptomology between SUD comorbid with and without ADHD. Methods: A multi-centre, cross-sectional comparison study design drew study participants from substance use treatment facilities within South Africa. Participants were screened for ADHD and depression, with selective application of a confirmatory ADHD diagnostic interview. Participants were diagnostically grouped according (SUD + ADHD, SUD – ADHD) with application of a 2x2x3 ANOVA model. Results: A significant main effect of ADHD diagnosis and gender on depressive symptoms was identified. Post-hoc analysis revealed only male ADHD subjects had significantly higher scores on the Beck Scale than non-ADHD males. Conclusions: Co-occurring disorder (COD) prevalence rates were higher than most other South African studies. Aggravation of ADHD on mood dis-order symptom severity is consistent with existing literature, however further investiga-tion is warranted to determine if the interaction of gender remains only significant for men with a bigger sample size. The identified COD prevalence rate contrasts with other South Africa studies, emphasising the need for comprehensive psychiatric co-morbidity screen-ing in SUD treatment settings.
Assessing Barriers to Care for the Vaccine Injured: The Vaccination Injury Treatment and Access to Essential Care (VITAE) Survey
Authors: Halma Matthew , Varon Joseph
Published: January 2025

Post vaccination syndrome, either acute or long term, is a significant source of disease burden, affecting up to 1% of vaccine recipients. The medical and scientific community is only beginning to define and classify the condition, and presently those affected are left with very limited support. Gaps in patient needs include disease diagnosis, treatment (which requires research), and acknowledgement and compensation for injuries. More proactively, we may also look towards prevention, through an analysis of disease etiology, it is possible to minimize the risk of post vaccination syndrome by restricting the use of vaccines known to cause this condition. This research aims to assess the level of debility and current barriers to care in the vaccine injured population. An analysis of 705 responses reveals a high level of disruption, loss of income, and medical expenditure, a significant degree of it out-of-pocket, among the vaccine injured population. This research provides medical professionals, policymakers, and patient advocacy groups with the information they need to respond to this disease.
Detection of Abnormal Human Behavior Using Unsupervised Learning in Video Surveillance Systems
Authors: Kwak Naejoung , Cho Seongsoo , Yoon Cheolhee
Published: January 2025

As public safety demands increase, there is a growing need for intelligent surveillance systems capable of detecting abnormal human behavior in real-world settings. Numerous detection techniques based on machine learning and deep learning models have been developed for abnormal behavior detection. Among these, unsupervised learning enables anomaly detection without labeled data by learning normal patterns and identifying deviations, making it a practical solution to address the shortage of abnormal data. This paper surveys and analyzes recent unsupervised learning techniques for detecting abnormal human behavior in surveillance video streams, reviewing commonly used datasets, discussing practical limitations, and identifying areas for improvement to enhance the reliability and efficiency of unsupervised models in surveillance applications.
Satellite Communications in the New Space Era: A Survey and Future Challenges
Authors: Sowe Ebou A
Published: January 2025

Satellite communications have become indispensable in the New Space Era, driven by technological advancements and the proliferation of small satellite constellations. This survey report aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of the current state of satellite communications in this era, examining technological advancements, emerging trends, and future challenges. It explores the historical background of satellite communications, highlighting the miniaturization of satellites, the deployment of high-throughput satellites, and the integration of satellite networks with terrestrial infrastructure. Additionally, it addresses the challenges faced by the industry, including spectrum congestion, space debris management, cybersecurity threats, and regulatory considerations. The survey provides insights into the advantages of Low Earth Orbit satellite constellations. It also discusses satellite communication initiatives in remote areas, highlighting their wide coverage, connectivity solutions, disaster resilience, and diverse applications. The report concludes by acknowledging the limitations of satellite communication while emphasizing ongoing technological advancements that address challenges and improve the efficiency and reliability of communication services in remote areas.
Review of Acute and Chronic Biomarkers of Fluoride Exposure and Their Significance for Public Health
Authors: González-González Rogelio , Salas-Pacheco José Manuel , Tremillo-Maldonado Omar , Ortíz-Sarabia Gamaliel , Almeda-Ojeda Oscar , Salas-Pacheco Sergio Manuel , Molina-Frechero Nelly , López-Verdín Sandra , Muros-Casas Fatima del , Bologna-Molina Ronell
Published: January 2025

Fluoride, a trace element, plays a crucial role in dental health, primarily by preventing dental caries and promoting enamel remineralization. However, excessive exposure to fluoride can result in adverse health effects, including dental and skeletal fluorosis. This review provides a critical analysis of the clinical manifestations of fluorosis, highlighting the physiological signs associated with chronic fluoride exposure, such as osteocondensation, cortical thickening, and skeletal deformities.
Efficient Bayesian Hierarchical Small Area Population Estimation Using INLA-SPDE: Integrating Multiple Data Sources and Spatial-Autocorrelation
Authors: Nnanatu Chibuzor Christopher , Yankey Ortis , Dzossa Anaclet D. , Abbott Thomas , Gadiaga Assane , Lazar Attila , Tatem Andrew
Published: January 2025

Statistical modelling approaches which produce fine spatial resolution population estimates have been developed to fill data gaps in resource-poor countries where census data are either outdated or incomplete. These population modelling methods often draw upon recent georeferenced sample population enumeration datasets to predict population density and distribution at both sampled and non-sampled locations, based on their correlation with a set of carefully selected geospatial covariates. These modelled population estimates are increasingly used to support governance, health surveillance, equitable resource allocation, and humanitarian response. However, methodological challenges remain. For example, the georeferenced sample enumeration data are usually disparate and patchy in their distributions, with a high proportion of non-sampled locations that result in highly uncertain estimates. Here, we present a model-based Bayesian geostatistical small area population estimation approach which simultaneously · Combines multiple sample population enumeration datasets and· Explicitly integrates spatial autocorrelation within a single modelling framework. Findings from a simulation study show varying levels of accuracy in the posterior parameter estimates over different levels of spatial variance and data missingness. The methodology, which was further validated using five nationally representative household listing datasets in Cameroon, provides a valuable methodological development in small area population estimation modelling from sparsely distributed sample enumeration data.
Ukrainian Scientific Emigration and Open Access
Authors: Moskovkin Vladimír
Published: January 2025

The sixth wave of Ukrainian scientific emigration, which began at the end of February 2022, and the formation of new structures in the Ukrainian scientific diaspora have stimulated research on the study and preservation of Ukrainian scientific heritage abroad. However, such research and measures to preserve this scientific heritage will not be effective if they are not based on the concept and technologies of Open Access. Therefore, the aim of our study is to show how such research should be conducted, using the example of the analysis of staff composition at the Ukrainian Free University and its publication activity in its first five years of operation, as well as what general measures are necessary to study and preserve the scientific heritage of all six waves of Ukrainian scientific emigration. The article deals with the following issues: periodisation of the waves of Ukrainian scientific emigration; identification of Ukrainian scientific and educational organisations of the first wave of Ukrainian scientific emigration; brief history of the Ukrainian Free University; publication activity of the professors of the Ukrainian Free University (1921-1925) with the selection of works published in Open Access; linguistic biographical Wikipedia articles for the professors of the Ukrainian Free University (1921-1925); distribution of publications by professors from Ukrainian Free University through digital libraries and repositories; analysis of book marks using a case study; standards for describing works in electronic collections of rare and old publications; approaches to the development of the programme "Open Access to the Scientific Knowledge and Cultural Heritage of Ukrainian Scientific Emigration". Overall, the results of study shows the importance of preserving the continuity of the traditions established by the first waves of Ukrainian scientific emigration, the new generation of Ukrainian scientific emigrants should maintain these traditions. In order to study and understand these traditions, it is necessary to study the activities of scientists of previous waves of Ukrainian scientific emigration, and in order to make the results of this study available to the wider scientific community, they should be digitised and made publicly available.
Integrating Mental Health Services into Primary Care Settings: A Multiple Case Study of Congolese Experiences testing the Feasibility of the WHO’s mental health Gap Action Programme
Authors: Mukala Mayoyo Erick , Criel Bart , Labat Aline , Coppieters Yves , Chenge Faustin
Published: January 2025

Some experiences of integrating mental health into primary care settings, testing the feasibility of the WHO’s mental health Gap Action Programme (mhGAP) approach, have been launched in the Democratic Republic of the Congo to address treatment gaps. However, they have not yet been documented to look at scaling up. This study described the health outcomes and lessons learned from two of these experiences. A multiple case study was conducted on two integration experiences in the urban Tshamilemba district (2021-25) in the Haut-Katanga province and in the rural Mangembo district (2022-26) in the Kongo Central province, called Programmes U (for Urban) and R (for Rural), respectively. Data were collected between July and August 2024 from focus group discussions, interviews, document reviews, including routine health information systems. We carried out descriptive statistical analyses to measure indicators of accessibility and the use of services, and content analysis to explore the lessons learned. A total of 1,719 individuals with mental disorders were treated in primary care settings between 2021/22 and 2024 under both programmes. From 2021 to 2024, the curative consultations rate for mental disorders, which was nil at the start of both programmes, reached 14.4 New Cases/1,000 inhabitants/year in programme U and 14.2 New Cases/1,000 inhabitants/year in programme R. Several lessons were learned, related to each phase of mhGAP approach. The findings confirm the feasibility and effectiveness of the mhGAP approach in the Congolese context and highlight the need for concerted action to address the identified challenges.
Securing the Internet of Things: Strategies for a Resilient Cyber-Physical Ecosystem
Authors: Hor Win Jared Tham , Cong Lim Ding , H Tut Thtat Minn , Kit Lun Dylan Chan , Hua Lee Tong , Cong Lim Hua , Ka Wai Averil Lim , Wern Chin Yi , Jia Min Woon , Shahzad Ali Danial , Sindiramutty Siva Raja
Published: January 2025

The Internet of Things (IoT) has created a cyber-physical ecosystem that has changed humans’ lives and working manner. IoT connects everyday objects to other systems and devices through the Internet. Nonetheless, due to the rapid growth of IoT devices and their complex architecture, several key security challenges present themselves. That includes weak authentication, lack of firmware updates, as well as poor privacy. This paper highlights the importance of IoT security, its benefits, limitations, and future potential solutions. There are countermeasures to address these issues as well, including the use of strong passwords, device-based identity verification, multi-factor authentication, and encryption techniques. Aside from that, integrating edge computing, artificial intelligence, and machine learning into IoT brings a lot of benefits such as firmware update enhancement, intrusion detection, and user consent management. The proposed solutions aim to create a more robust and secure IoT ecosystem. They ensure the reliability and integrity of connected devices too. If these measures are adopted, sensitive data can be protected, cyber threats will be prevented, and user trust in IoT technologies can be maintained.
The Combined Effects of Multiple Invasive Species on Persistence of Experimental Populations of Imperiled Pahrump Poolfish
Authors: Paulson Brandon L. , Stockwell Craig A.
Published: January 2025

Many ecosystems have been invaded by more than one non-native species, but research evaluating the combined effects of multiple invasive species has been limited. In the southwest USA, many aquatic systems have been invaded by multiple species such as non-native crayfish and non-native fishes. We used experimental mesocosms to test individual and combined effects of invasive Red Swamp Crayfish, Procambarus clarkii, and Western Mosquitofish, Gambusia affinis, on endangered Pahrump Poolfish, Empetrichthys latos. We found that crayfish alone reduced adult poolfish survival; however, crayfish by themselves had moderate but non-significant impacts on the production of poolfish juveniles. Mosquitofish had no effect on the survival of poolfish adults, but significantly reduced recruitment of juveniles. When both crayfish and mosquitofish were present, both adult survival and juvenile production were significantly decreased. These findings were consistent with the recent decline of a wild poolfish population from over 10,000 fish to less than 1,000 poolfish following the establishment of crayfish and mosquitofish. This study demonstrates that conservation management of the Pahrump Poolfish must have active management and removal of invasive species, otherwise extirpation and eventually extinction will likely occur. This study also provides an example of the compounding effects of multiple invasive species.
Legal Analysis of Sports Clubs' Civil Liability for Athletes' Psychological Injuries: Focusing on Media and Social Network Pressures
Authors: Ghorbani Asiabar Mojtaba Ghorbani Asiabar , Ghorbani Asiabar Morteza , Ghorbani Asiabar Alireza
Published: January 2025

This study examines the civil liability of sports clubs in Iran regarding the psychological injuries sustained by athletes due to media and social network pressures. The research employs a mixed-methods approach, combining doctrinal legal analysis with empirical data from a survey of 150 professional athletes across five major sports in Iran.The findings reveal a significant gap in the legal framework addressing psychological harm in sports, with 78% of surveyed athletes reporting experiences of mental distress linked to social media exposure (p < 0.001). Statistical analysis using chi-square tests (χ2 = 15.32, df = 4, p < 0.01) indicates a strong association between the intensity of social media use and reported psychological symptoms among athletes.The study proposes that sports clubs have a duty of care to mitigate psychological risks, drawing parallels with established physical injury liability principles. A logistic regression model (OR = 2.45, 95% CI: 1.78-3.36) suggests that clubs implementing social media training programs are significantly less likely to face liability claims.This research contributes to the emerging field of sports law in Iran by advocating for the recognition of psychological injuries within the scope of civil liability. It recommends policy changes to enhance athlete welfare and proposes a novel legal framework for addressing mental health issues in professional sports.
The Total Design of Everyday Life : Historical Ideals and Dilemmas of the Gesamtkunstwerk
Authors: Munch Anders V.
Published: January 2025

The idea of designing for everyday life on every scale, through objects, spaces, and systems, is central to modern design and architecture. The Italian architect Ernesto Nathan Rogers is often quoted for urging his fellow architects to design everything “from the spoon to the city” (Rogers 1946, 2). For designers and architects of the high modernism of the 1950s and 1960s this motto stood for the pursuit of “total design,” in which every detail should be taken care of and aligned according to an overall scheme, from small living units to grand urban plans. The ideal is still very much alive today but is accompanied by the general criticism of modernism: that totalizing schemes confine everyday life in rigid frames and conformity. The idea of total design belongs, however, to a long tradition of thinking in art, design, and architecture. I will discuss key statements from high modernism on total design and total architecture, and revisit earlier expressions of the idea of the Gesamtkunstwerk as a comparable concept in art nouveau and the avant-garde. This broad notion, also called the Total Work of Art, was very productive and widespread, and has been widely discussed. I will discuss some of the dilemmas of this ambition to make comprehensive designs framing the experience of everyday life. This ideal contains some of the most valuable ideas in the history of design and architecture, which we should strive to keep alive whilst remaining aware that they have also been a continuous source of troubles and fierce discussions.
Experimental Playgrounds, Loose Parts, and The Everyday Aesthetics of Play
Authors: Highmore Ben
Published: January 2025

This article draws together discourses around children’s playgrounds in Northern Europe and North America from the early twentieth century onwards, and the work of the British design pedagogue Simon Nicholson, whose theory of “loose parts” from the 1970s, was inf luenced by the experimental playground movement that emerged after 1945. These experimental playgrounds, often referred to as junk-playgrounds and adventure playgrounds, encouraged city children to build their own shacks and dens on areas of rough ground, just as children living in rural areas might build dens. This activity of imaginative place making should be seen as a fundamental and everyday aesthetic activity that children take part in whether within a playground or outside one. Whether play is an imitative or an intuitive activity such placemaking would constitute a basic orientation towards design. As such the experimental playground could be treated as a crucial element of design culture.
Estrategias de los cómicos ambulantes para la apropiación de espacio público
Authors:   , Estupiñan Puerta Paola Rocio
Published: January 2025

Los cómicos ambulantes en el Perú han desarrollado diversas estrategias para apropiarse física y simbólicamente de los anfiteatros de la alameda Chabuca Granda, Lima, donde actualmente presentan sus espectáculos artísticos frente a un público masivo. Comprender el hecho teatral de los cómicos ambulantes de Lima es comprender a su vez el hecho de que el arte sale de las salas de teatro y toma herramientas performativas para presentarse en espacios públicos como la alameda Chabuca Granda produciendo diversas formas de socialización. Las representaciones de los cómicos ambulantes contienen significados sociales y políticos relacionados al contexto migrante que generan la identificación del espectador, conectando con su vida y con la del grupo del que se siente parte. Es por ello que el presente estudio tiene como objetivo identificar las estrategias de los cómicos ambulantes para la apropiación del espacio público. Esta investigación aborda conceptos teóricos relacionados a la teatralidad y performatividad, explica la apropiación física y simbólica del espacio público y analiza el discurso político y social en la puesta en escena de los cómicos.
Actitudes frente a la investigación en internos de Medicina Humana de la Universidad Científica del Sur durante el periodo 2023-2 y factores asociados
Authors:   , Medina Grandez Ana Sabrina
Published: January 2025

Objetivo: Determinar el nivel de actitud frente a la investigación de los internos de medicina humana de la Universidad Científica del Sur y los factores asociados. Materiales y métodos: Estudio transversal, analítico y de tipo observacional en internos de medicina de la Universidad Científica del Sur. Se tuvo en cuenta un tamaño muestral de 227 internos de medicina. Para el muestreo se utilizaron todos los datos recolectados por el instrumento. Como factores asociados se estudiaron sexo, edad, pertenencia a alguna sociedad científica. El plan de análisis estadístico fue realizado mediante el programa STATA versión. En el análisis bivariado en este estudio para la determinación de los factores asociados se utilizó la prueba de Chi2 o T de Student. Resultados: Se obtuvo como resultado que el 61% de los participantes fue del sexo femenino. Los cursos extracurriculares relacionados a la investigación con mayor frecuencia fueron búsqueda bibliográfica, estadística en salud y metodología de la investigación, sumando aproximadamente un 81.17%. Esos estudiantes presentaban mayores actitudes positivas frente a la investigación. La motivación para investigar fue obtenida principalmente por el asesor de investigación o docente, por parte del autor principal o era motivación propia con un 75% y se relacionaban con mayores actitudes frente a la investigación con un valor de p=0.001. Finalmente, se encontró que a mayores competencias autos reportadas se encontraron actitudes más positivas ante la investigación y que a mayor conocimiento sobre las normas de autoría la actitud ante la investigación también era más positiva, ambos datos tanto en hombres como en mujeres. Conclusiones: En promedio, el puntaje de actitudes antes la investigación de los participantes fue de 67.15. Los factores asociados a mejores actitudes a investigación fueron competencias en investigación, conocimiento frente a las normas de autoría y haber llevado cursos extracurriculares en investigación.
DNA methylation is associated with oxidative stress and genomic deregulation in diabetes mellitus
Authors: Sen Subhrojit
Published: January 2025

Aims:
Retrotransposons may undergo aberrant methylation leading to genomic deregulation in diabetes mellitus. The present study evaluated the methylation of retrotransposons namely Alu, B1, and LINE-1 elements in glucose-induced endothelial cells (ECs) and T1DM. The correlation between methylation of these retrotransposons and oxidative stress was investigated. Additionally, methylation of FN1, VEGFa, and EDN1 genes was analyzed.
Methods:
Hot start PCR of the bisulfite converted DNA isolated from the ECs and kidneys for the methylation of retrotransposons was analyzed. Quantification of methylated DNA in ECs was performed by ELISA. The methylation of the FN1, VEGFa, and EDN1 genes was examined. Oxidative stress was evaluated by measuring the superoxide anion, mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS), 8-Hydroxyguanosine (8-OHdG), and NF-kappaB p(65).
Results:
Hypermethylation of Alu and LINE-1 elements occurred in the high glucose- induced ECs. B1 hypermethylation was observed in the kidneys of T1DM mice. Hyperglycemia resulted in LINE-1 hypermethylation in the kidneys of T1DM mice. Hypermethylation of the FN1, VEGFa and EDN1 genes occurred in the high glucose-induced ECs and diabetic kidneys. Hypermethylation of the retrotransposons, oxidative stress and NF-kappaB p(65) were inhibited by 5-Aza-Dc and ginseng treatment.
Conclusions:
This study illustrated that retrotransposon hypermethylation and oxidative stress were evident in the glucose-induced ECs and T1DM along with hypermethylation of the FN1, VEGFa and EDN1 genes. The study also demonstrated the association between hypermethylation of these retrotransposons and oxidative stress in diabetes.
Intein-mediated split SaCas9 for genome editing in plants
Authors: Hu Danling , Hu Lizhe , Lu Yaqiang , Dong Xiao , Cao Xingyu , Bai Shasha , Zhang Lingang , Li Dongming , Sun Yongwei
Published: January 2025

Virus-induced genome editing (VIGE) technologies have been developed to address the limitations of plant genome editing, which heavily relies on genetic transformation and regeneration. However, the application of VIGE in plants is hampered by the challenge posed by the size of the commonly used gene-editing nucleases, Cas9 and Cas12a. To address this challenge, our study explores the potential application of inteins in VIGE, internal protein elements known for mediating post-translational protein splicing by self-excising from precursor proteins and ligating adjacent protein sequences. We demonstrate that an intein-mediated split SaCas9 system not only functions effectively in plant genome editing but also achieves efficiency comparable to that of the wild-type SaCas9. Importantly, we have successfully implemented VIGE using this intein-mediated split SaCas9 system in sheepgrass, a Gramineae forage that is notoriously difficult to genetically transform.
Muscle weakness but also contractures contribute to the progressive gait pathology in children with DMD: a simulation study
Authors: Vandekerckhove Ines , D'Hondt Lars , Gupta Dhruv , Bosch Bram Van Den , Hauwe Marleen Van den , Goemans Nathalie , De Waele Liesbeth , Campenhout Anja Van , Desloovere Kaat , De Groote Friedl
Published: January 2025

Background
Muscle weakness and contractures cause gait deficits in children with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) but their relative contributions are poorly understood and hence it is unclear whether contractures should be treated. Therefore, we aimed to differentiate the effect of muscle weakness in isolation from weakness and contractures combined on the gait patterns.
Methods
We used computer simulations that generate gait patterns based on a musculoskeletal model (without relying on experimental data) to establish the relationship between muscle impairments and gait deviations. We previously collected a longitudinal database of 137 repeated measurements in 30 boys with DMD and found that the data measured through 3D gait analysis could be clustered in three gait patterns. We estimated weakness based on data from fixed dynamometry, and contractures based on goniometry and clinical measures. Foot deformities were modeled by reducing the height of all foot segments and decreasing the strength of the intrinsic foot muscles. We created musculoskeletal models that either represented (1) the mean weakness, (2) the mean weakness and contractures, or (3) the mean weakness, contractures and foot deformities, in each gait pattern.
Results
Simulations based on models with both weakness and contractures captured most (but not all) experimentally observed gait deviations, demonstrating the validity of our approach. While muscle weakness was primarily responsible for gait deviations, muscle contractures and foot deformities further contributed to gait deviations. Interestingly, the simulations predict that the combination of increasing weakness and contractures rather than increasing weakness alone causes loss of ambulation for the most affected gait pattern.
Conclusions
Predictive simulations have the potential to elucidate causal relationships between muscle impairments and gait deviations in boys with DMD. In the future, they could be used to design targeted interventions (e.g. stretching, assistive devices) to prolong ambulation.
Supporting health behaviors in migrant women after childbirth with special emphasis on mHealth: An interview study with health care professionals
Authors: Shirvanifar Maryam , Müssener Ulrika , Lindh Alice , Wångdahl Josefin , Henriksson Pontus
Published: January 2025

Migrant health, including reproductive health, is a public health priority. The time after childbirth is considered an important period for health behavior change and mobile health (mHealth) interventions have shown promise in influencing health behaviors. Health care professionals have an important role in providing support for health behaviors and implementing mHealth tools in clinical care. This study therefore examined health care professionals’ experiences of health behavior promotion in migrant women and the potential for an mHealth intervention to improve health behaviors after childbirth. Twenty health care professionals in Sweden participated in individual semi-structured interviews. The informants had different professional backgrounds, ages, working experiences and all were females. Data was analyzed using thematic analysis and three main themes were generated. The first theme “Priorities and routines of health behavior promotion after childbirth” described a lack of priority for health behavior promotion after childbirth. The second theme “Social influences of health behaviors” described several factors that influenced possibilities of healthy behaviors after childbirth. In the third theme “mHealth in supporting health behaviors after childbirth”, informants stressed that a culturally appropriate smartphone app with reliable information had the potential to promote health behaviors after childbirth although further research is needed.
Parasite contamination of soil in distinct Peruvian locations and outside built environments
Authors: Pineda Carlos , Rivera Maritza Dalí Camones , Sabino Eddyson Montalvo , Mejia Lucia Estela , Keegan Katherine Elizabeth , Alvarez Lizbet Pilar Patricio , Mora Javier Jorge , Vega Fernanda Espinoza , Mejia Emilio Rey , Herrera Patrick Olivas , Pando Elisa Palomino , Zeng Zhen , de Oliveira Athos Silva , Mondragon Maria Jose Villar , Slatko Barton , Wetzel Eric J. , Mejia Rojelio
Published: January 2025

Background
Soil is a reservoir for parasites that can affect human and animal health, especially in tropical regions where soil-transmitted helminths and protozoa thrive. Understanding how environmental factors like temperature, humidity, and soil type strongly influence parasite distribution is essential, particularly given how climate change may intensify their impacts, altering parasite habitats and increasing transmission risks. The primary goal of this study was to understand how environmental conditions affect soil parasite prevalence and diversity.
Methodology:
A total of 198 soil samples from 43 locations across three Peruvian regions—Tingo María (TM) (Amazon rainforest), Andabamba/Marabamba (A/M) (Andean highlands), and Huánuco city parks—were analyzed using multi-parallel quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR) to detect soil-transmitted helminths (STH) and protozoan DNA from entry, patio, and latrine sites.
Results
Parasites were detected in 93% of locations, with 84% showing polyparasitism. TM houses had a higher odds ratio (OR) of contamination with Ascaris lumbricoides (16.5) and Trichuris trichiura (8.4) compared to those in A/M (p < 0.05). TM also showed significantly higher odds of parasite presence in patios compared to entries, particularly for helminths; patios had an OR of 5.8 relative to entries (p = 0.006). A/M had higher protozoan prevalence with Blastocystis species, with a greater odd of 8.4 (p = 0.042) to TM. A/M had an OR of Acanthamoeba species 8.6 in patios versus entries (p = 0.0327), indicating a niche favoring protozoans in these arid conditions. TM had significantly more parasite species (p = 0.0154), with helminth species significantly higher in the patio vs. entry (p = 0.0029).
Conclusions
The observed variability in soil parasite prevalence between tropical rainforest and highland regions highlights the influence of environmental niches on parasite distribution, which may shift further due to climate change. This study demonstrates a sensitive approach to monitoring environmental contamination with parasites by leveraging qPCR. The findings underscore the importance of ecological surveillance for assessing parasitic transmission risks, which is crucial for guiding public health interventions, especially as environmental changes accelerate.
Aeroacoustic Analysis of Dipole Noise Patterns in Low Reynolds Number Square Cylinder Flows
Authors: Nakka Mahesh , Rana Basanta Kumar , Harichandan Atal Bihari
Published: January 2025

This research provides a detailed investigation into the mechanisms of aeroacoustic noise generation linked to square cylinder aerodynamics under low Reynolds number conditions. Utilizing ANSYS Workbench, fluid dynamic and acoustic interactions are analyzed at very low Reynolds numbers (Re = 100 and 200). The study focuses on key parameters driving noise production, such as turbulence, unsteady pressure fluctuations, and the interaction between the square cylinder's surface and the surrounding airflow. Findings reveal a characteristic dipole noise pattern at Re = 100 and Re = 200, with maximum noise levels located at the top and bottom surfaces due to predominant lift fluctuations. Conversely, noise levels are at their minimum within the vortex streets, driven primarily by drag fluctuations. These findings contribute to a broader understanding of the aeroacoustic properties of square cylinders, offering insight into mitigating noise in aerospace, civil engineering, and other noise-critical engineering applications.
A long-term study reveals the impact of weather conditions on avian fitness
Authors: Arct Aneta , Martyka Rafał , Miler Krzysztof , Skorb Karolina , Gustafsson Lars , Drobniak Szymon
Published: January 2025

Here, we present an analysis based on a 40-year dataset from a nest-box population of the collared flycatcher (Ficedula albicollis). Our objective is to examine the impact of weather conditions during the incubation and nestling period on key indicators of individual fitness, including offspring production and local annual recruitment rate. Our findings provide compelling evidence that climatic conditions experienced during both incubation and nestling periods significantly impact the number of fledglings and recruits. Specifically, we observed that higher precipitation during the nestling period negatively affects the number of fledglings and increases brood failure. Interestingly, higher precipitation during the incubation period is linked to increased recruitment numbers. Moreover, we found that warmer weather during both the incubation and nestling periods decreases brood failure, and more importantly, higher temperatures during the nestling period are positively associated with the number of recruits. These results underscore the complex interplay between weather patterns and avian reproductive strategies, highlighting the importance of long-term ecological studies in understanding the impacts of climate change on bird populations. By addressing the variability of climatic influences across different life stages, future research can help develop more comprehensive models for predicting the resilience of avian species in the face of ongoing climate challenges.
CO2 capture with post-modified consumer acrylonitrile plastics
Authors: Skrydstrup Troels , Pedersen Simon , Kaussler Clemens , Ebenbauer Ruth , Bech Thomas , Giovanelli Riccardo , Lahn Martin , Juhl Dennis , Nielsen Niels Christian
Published: January 2025

Carbon capture and storage (CCS) is considered an indispensable tool for abating climate change caused by human activity. With annual CO2-emissions exceeding 37 gigatons, there is an urgent need for accessing sorbents on a million-ton production scale. Solid amine-based CO2-adsorbents are advantageous compared to conventional aqueous absorbents due to an energetically more facile regeneration and greater stability. However, synthesis of solid adsorbents is still comparatively costly and of lower production capacity. Here we report the transition metal catalysed hydrogenation or combined hydrocyanation/hydrogenation of abundant but difficult-to-recycle consumer nitrile plastics, rubbers, and textiles, to generate solid amine adsorbents that capture and release CO2 by thermal swing adsorption. The protocol is showcased with nitrile gloves, LEGO® bricks, kitchenware plastic, and acrylic textiles, taking advantage of the nitrogen already present in these polymers. These amine materials display CO2-capacities up to an average of 2.98 mmol/g, while some can match or even surpass the working capacity of a commercial benchmark adsorbent, Lewatit VP OC 1065, when subjected to simulated flue gas at 90 °C. Furthermore, excellent adsorbent stabilities towards harmful NO2 and SO2 flue gas components are observed. We anticipate our work will provide a potential pathway forward to rapidly accessing new solid adsorbents from consumer plastics for managing CO2-emissions.
Assessment of Mucoadhesive Dissolving Film Containing Cinnamaldehyde, Chitosan, and Papain Enzyme to Inhibit Candida Albicans-A Causative Agent of Candidiasis in Diabetic Patients: An In Vitro Study
Authors: Akhriani Andi Asti , Mutmainnah St. Fadila , Musyrifah Nurul , Karim Arfansyah , Fajriani Sarah , Djamaluddin Nursyamsi , Marlina Erni , Ariani Maretaningtias Dwi
Published: January 2025

Background
Fungal infections, especially those caused by Candida albicans (C. albicans), are frequently observed in individuals with diabetes mellitus, leading to oral candidiasis. Current treatments for this condition often rely on synthetic materials, which can result in adverse effects, including potential liver damage. To address these drawbacks, a herbal-based mucoadhesive dissolving film has been developed, incorporating papain enzyme from papaya latex, chitosan derived from shrimp shells, and cinnamaldehyde from cinnamon. The goal of this study is to develop a mucoadhesive dissolving film incorporating cinnamaldehyde, chitosan, and papain enzyme, and to assess its efficacy in preventing oral candidiasis in diabetic patients.
Methods
This laboratory experiment was conducted using three replicates and a completely randomized design. The research process included extraction, formulation, antifungal testing, toxicity evaluation, characterization, FTIR analysis, and SEM imaging. The collected data, presented in tables and graphs, were analyzed using one-way ANOVA and probit regression.
Result
The research findings, supported by the functional group test, revealed that the papain enzyme incorporated into shrimp shell chitosan and cinnamon aldehyde extract exhibited greater enzyme activity (0.0313 U/mL) compared to the manufactured papain enzyme (0.0279 U/mL). The optimal formulation, identified as non-toxic, displayed the following characteristics: a thickness of 0.24 mm, dissolution time of 5 minutes, pH of 7.39, transparent yellow appearance, distinctive odor, smooth texture, excellent flexibility, tensile strength of 7.482 MPa, folding endurance of 310 cycles, maximum adsorption of 2.2203 mg/g, uniform surface, and absence of pores, as determined by in vitro testing.
Discussion
In vitro testing confirmed the effectiveness of the developed formula as an antifungal treatment for oral candidiasis, as it resulted in a CFU value of zero and no histopathological evidence of C. albicans hyphae. In comparison, nystatin, the currently used antifungal, still showed the presence of colonies and C. albicans hyphae.
Conclusion
This suggests that the optimal formulation could potentially prevent oral candidiasis in patients with diabetes mellitus.