bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
RGS10 attenuates systemic immune dysregulation induced by chronic inflammatory stress
Authors: Jernigan Janna E. , Staley Hannah A. , Baty Zachary , Bolen MacKenzie L. , Gomes Beatriz Nuñes , Holt Jenny , Cole Cassandra L. , Neighbarger Noelle K. , Dheeravath Kruthika , Merchak Andrea R. , Menees Kelly B. , Coombes Stephen A. , Tansey Malú Gámez
Published: February 2025

Regulator of G-protein signaling 10 (RGS10), a key homeostatic regulator of immune cells, has been implicated in multiple diseases associated with aging and chronic inflammation including Parkinson’s Disease (PD). Interestingly, subjects with idiopathic PD display reduced levels of RGS10 in subsets of peripheral immune cells. Additionally, individuals with PD have been shown to have increased activated peripheral immune cells in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) compared to age-matched healthy controls. However, it is unknown whether peripheral immune cells in the CSF of individuals with PD also exhibit decreased levels of RGS10. Utilizing the Michael J. Fox Foundation Parkinson’s Progression Markers Initiative (PPMI) study we found that RGS10 levels are decreased in the CSF of individuals with PD compared to healthy controls and prodromal individuals. As RGS10 levels are decreased in the CSF and circulating peripheral immune cells of individuals with PD, we hypothesized that RGS10 regulates peripheral immune cell responses to chronic systemic inflammation (CSI) prior to the onset of neurodegeneration. To test this, we induced CSI for 6 weeks in C57BL6/J mice and RGS10 KO mice to assess circulating and CNS-associated immune cell responses. We found that RGS10 deficiency synergizes with CSI to induce a bias for inflammatory and cytotoxic cell populations, a reduction in antigen presentation machinery in peripheral blood immune cells, as well as in and around the brain that is most notable in males. These results highlight RGS10 as an important regulator of the systemic immune response to CSI and implicate RGS10 as a potential contributor to the development of immune dysregulation in PD.
Astroglial modulation of synaptic function in the non-demyelinated cerebellar cortex is dependent on MyD88 signaling in a model of toxic demyelination
Authors: Lohrberg Melanie , Mortensen Lena Sünke , Thomas Carolina , Fries Franziska , van der Meer Franziska , Götz Alexander , Landt Carolin , Rhee Hong Jun , Rhee JeongSeop , Gómez-Varela David , Schmidt Manuela , Möbius Wiebke , Ruhwedel Torben , Pardo Luis A. , Remling Linus , Kramann Nadine , Wrzos Claudia , Bahn Erik , Stadelmann Christine , Barrantes-Freer Alonso
Published: February 2025

Progressive neurological decline in multiple sclerosis is associated with axonal loss and synaptic dysfunction in the non-demyelinated normal appearing gray matter (NAGM) and prominently in the cerebellum. In contrast to early disease stages, where synaptic and neuro-axonal pathology correlates with the extent of T cell infiltration, a prominent role of the innate immune system has been proposed for progressive MS. However, the specific contribution of microglia and astrocytes to synaptic cerebellar pathology in the NAGM– independent of an adaptive T cell response - remains largely unexplored. In the present study, we quantified synaptic changes in the cerebellar NAGM distant from demyelinated lesions in a mouse model of toxic demyelination. Proteomic analysis of the cerebellar cortex revealed differential regulation of synaptic and glutamate transport proteins in the absence of evident structural synaptic pathology or local gray matter demyelination. At the functional level, synaptic changes manifested as a reduction in frequency-dependent facilitation at the parallel fiber– Purkinje cell synapse. Further, deficiency of MyD88, an adaptor protein of the innate immune response, associated with a functional recovery in facilitation, reduced changes in the differential expression of synaptic and glutamate transport proteins, and reduced transcription levels of inflammatory cytokines. Nevertheless, the characteristics of demyelinating lesions and their associated cellular response were similar to wild type animals. Our work brings forward an experimental paradigm mimicking the diffuse synaptic pathology independent of demyelination in late stage MS and highlights the complex regulation of synaptic pathology in the cerebellar NAGM. Moreover, our findings suggest a role of astrocytes, in particular Bergmann glia, as key cellular determinants of cerebellar synaptic dysfunction.
Design and screening of novel molecular compounds targeting lactate dehydrogenase of Babesia microti
Authors: Luo Wanxin , Yu Long , Lu Shiyu , Yu Yuxin , Bai Yidan , Wang Sen , Li Dongfang , Han Zhen , Zheng Yaxin , Li Fangjie , Zhao Junlong , He Lan
Published: February 2025

Background

Human babesiosis is caused by several species within the Babesia genus, primarily Babesia microti, Babesia duncani, and Babesia divergens, all of which infect human red blood cells (RBCs). Clinically, the disease manifests with symptoms such as fever, anemia, jaundice, and hemoglobinuria, with B. microti being the most prevalent of these species. Our previous research has shown that B. microti primarily relies on lactate dehydrogenase (LDH)-mediated anaerobic glycolysis, rather than the tricarboxylic acid cycle (TCA cycle), to generate ATP for its intracellular survival. Because LDH is a promising drug target, it can be inhibited by compounds such as gossypol and 3,5-dihydroxy-2-naphthoxylic acid (DHNA). In this study, we conduct a structure-based optimization of DHNA, leading to the development of a novel library of compounds derived from its structure.

Methods

Two compounds were identified and synthesized through molecular docking, on the basis of the crystal structure of Babesia microti lactate dehydrogenase (BmLDH). The effects of these compounds were evaluated using several methods, including surface plasmon resonance (SPR) assays, enzyme activity inhibition tests, in vitro growth inhibition assays against B. microti, and mammalian cytotoxicity tests.

Results

Compounds target A (TA) (−36.0) and B (TB) (−43.8), both exhibiting low CDOCKER energy values, achieved final purities of 96.6% and 97.5%, respectively. Surface plasmon resonance (SPR) experiments showed that TA and TB had comparable dissociation constant (K
D) values of 11.3 × 10−6 M and 13.2 × 10−6 M, respectively. However, enzyme activity inhibition assays indicated that TB was more potent, with an half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) value of 23.8 μM, compared with TA’s IC50 of 71.6 μM. Additionally, TB demonstrated a strong ability to inhibit the in vitro growth of B. microti, with an IC50 value of 111.7 μM.

Conclusions

In this study, two compounds capable of inhibiting the growth of B. microti were obtained. Although both compounds showed moderate inhibitory activity against recombinant BmLDH (rBmLDH) and the growth of B. microti, there is potential to enhance their efficacy through further structural modifications, particularly of compound TB.

Graphical Abstract
Necrotic acalculous cholecystitis in an 8-year-old boy: a case report
Authors: Mueller Fanny , McDonald Amy , Schellerer Vera S.
Published: February 2025

Background

Although its incidence has increased in recent years, gallbladder inflammation in childhood is generally a rare condition. Acute acalculous cholecystitis accounts for about 50–70% of gallbladder inflammation in childhood, mostly in previously healthy children. The onset is strongly associated with viral, bacterial, or parasitic infections.

Case presentation

We present the case of a healthy 8-year-old boy of German descent diagnosed with necrotic acute acalculous cholecystitis, exhibiting only mild inflammatory signs and an unspecific clinical presentation of abdominal pain. There was no evidence of viral, bacterial, or parasitic infection. According to his unclear clinical presentation with 2-day history of vomiting, we performed an explorative laparoscopy and detected a necrotic gallbladder. After laparoscopic cholecystectomy, the patient’s health status improved immediately. He was discharged from the hospital on the third day after the operation.

Conclusion

Unlike our patient, almost all cases of acute acalculous cholecystitis originate from viral or bacterial infections, with clinical evidence of gallbladder inflammation shown on diagnostic imaging. An exploration of the abdominal cavity during a laparoscopic procedure was vital to our patient’s mortality and could be for others as well.
Contribution of microtopography off the Ryukyu Islands to coastal sea-level amplification during the 2022 Tonga meteotsunami
Authors: Miyashita Takuya , Nishino Ai , Watanabe Shingo , Yasuda Tomohiro , Mori Nobuhito , Shimura Tomoya , Ho Tung-Cheng
Published: February 2025

The January 2022 Tonga volcanic eruption generated atmospheric pressure waves that propagated over the ocean’s surface and triggered a meteotsunami. This meteotsunami caused significant amplitudes exceeding 100 cm along various Pacific coastlines far from the volcano. However, the factors driving such amplification remain unclear. This study presents numerical simulations of the meteotsunami, focusing on the Ryukyu Islands in Japan, where a maximum amplitude of 100 cm was recorded. Two models for simulating pressure waves from the eruption were utilized: one based on the superposition of waves tuned using the dispersion relation of atmospheric gravity waves (synthetic waves), and the other based on a detailed numerical model that assumes the release of a heat source from the eruption vent. The synthetic pressure wave simulations showed good agreement with the observations, accurately reproducing the 100 cm amplitude at Amami. To further analyze the factors contributing to the large amplitude at Amami, additional simulations were conducted by limiting the resolution to offshore areas deeper than 2000 m while maintaining a high resolution in coastal bathymetry. These simulations showed that reducing offshore resolution decreased the amplitude at Amami from approximately 100 to 60 cm, highlighting the significant role of offshore microtopography such as Daito Ridge and Oki-Daito Ridge in coastal amplification. The difference in amplitude was particularly notable in ridge areas with depths of 2000–5000 m. Moreover, the proportion of free waves to the total tsunami amplitude was estimated by terminating atmospheric pressure forcing during the computation. The results indicated that free waves alone could amplify from less than 5 cm offshore to 50 cm at the Amami coast, which is approximately half the amplitude when forced waves are also considered. These findings provide crucial insights into assessing the future predictability of meteotsunamis. Future research should investigate the necessary resolution and relationship between atmospheric wave properties and tsunami amplification. Understanding these factors is essential to improve the prediction and risk assessment of meteotsunamis.

Graphical Abstract
AI for image quality and patient safety in CT and MRI
Authors: Melazzini Luca , Bortolotto Chandra , Brizzi Leonardo , Achilli Marina , Basla Nicoletta , D’Onorio De Meo Alessandro , Gerbasi Alessia , Bottinelli Olivia Maria , Bellazzi Riccardo , Preda Lorenzo
Published: February 2025

Substantial endeavors have been recently dedicated to developing artificial intelligence (AI) solutions, especially deep learning-based, tailored to enhance radiological procedures, in particular algorithms designed to minimize radiation exposure and enhance image clarity. Thus, not only better diagnostic accuracy but also reduced potential harm to patients was pursued, thereby exemplifying the intersection of technological innovation and the highest standards of patient care. We provide herein an overview of recent AI developments in computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging. Major AI results in CT regard: optimization of patient positioning, scan range selection (avoiding “overscanning”), and choice of technical parameters; reduction of the amount of injected contrast agent and injection flow rate (also avoiding extravasation); faster and better image reconstruction reducing noise level and artifacts. Major AI results in MRI regard: reconstruction of undersampled images; artifact removal, including those derived from unintentional patient’s (or fetal) movement or from heart motion; up to 80–90% reduction of GBCA dose. Challenges include limited generalizability, lack of external validation, insufficient explainability of models, and opacity of decision-making. Developing explainable AI algorithms that provide transparent and interpretable outputs is essential to enable seamless AI integration into CT and MRI practice.

Relevance statement

This review highlights how AI-driven advancements in CT and MRI improve image quality and enhance patient safety by leveraging AI solutions for dose reduction, contrast optimization, noise reduction, and efficient image reconstruction, paving the way for safer, faster, and more accurate diagnostic imaging practices.

Key Points

Advancements in AI are revolutionizing the way radiological images are acquired, reconstructed, and interpreted.

AI algorithms can assist in optimizing radiation doses, reducing scan times, and enhancing image quality.

AI techniques are paving the way for a future of more efficient, accurate, and safe medical imaging examinations.

Graphical Abstract
An efficient short memory algorithm for the propagation of viscoacoustic waves in heterogeneous media
Authors: Wang Feng , Li Xiaoli , Li Yaomeng , Fu Chao , Guo Xu
Published: February 2025

The time-fractional viscoacoustic wave equation has important applications in geological exploration, where it quantifies the attenuation and velocity dispersion of waves as they propagate through real Earth media. However, due to the existence of Fractional-derivatives stress-strain relations with less than one Caputo fractional derivative and the inhomogeneity of the Earth's materials, there are great challenges in maintaining both numerical accuracy and efficiency. To address these challenges, we propose an Efficient Short-Time Memory Algorithm (ESMA) scheme to efficiently solve problems associated with heterogeneous earth media. By localising the singular kernel in the fractional-order stress-strain relation and introducing an auxiliary function, the storage length of the historical variables is converted from the full historical wavefield record to an M-layer auxiliary function. Our scheme can effectively handle attenuating models with complex geometries. Several numerical examples are developed to test the feasibility and accuracy of the ESMA scheme
Understanding Brown and Korringa (1975)
Authors: Thomsen Leon
Published: February 2025

The classic paper by Brown and Korringa, giving the dependence of the elastic properties of a porous rock on the compressibility of the pore fluid, has been understood for almost 50 years to be a generalization (to non-homogeneous solid) of earlier work on a similar topic by Gassmann. However, this understanding is based on a single passage of their paper, which contains a logical error, and so is not valid. The primary result of Brown and Korringa, which contains an additional parameter (compared to Gassmann), is correct as written in 1975 for all porous isotropic rocks (with one or many minerals) with uniform pore pressure, and stationary statistics of micro-geometry. Their parameter (?lt;subgt;Mlt;/subgt; ) is understood to be the Mean compressibility, not the matrix compressibility. Their parameter(?lt;subgt;lt;igt;Flt;/igt;lt;/subgt; )is not required, being eliminated in favor of the overall solid compressibility (?lt;subgt;Slt;/subgt; ). The extension of the isotropic argument to bulk anisotropic rocks is straight-forward (but with a complication due to thin-layering). Their results should be used (in place of Gassmann) for analysis of all 4D seismic differences, if the differences are shown, by future experimentation, to be significant in practice.?
Permeability of Heterogenous Clastic Rocks: A new well-log-based interpretation model and added value of magnetic resonance measurements
Authors: Eghbali Ali , Torres-Verdín Carlos
Published: February 2025

Permeability quantifies the efficiency of rocks in transporting fluids; its accurate estimation is crucial for formation evaluation and fluid production forecasts. In shaly sandstones, permeability depends on pore structure and shale or clay content, which may be laminated and/or dispersed. Laminated shale introduces flow anisotropy, while dispersed clays constrict the pore space, thus reducing porosity and increasing fluid friction. Existing models for permeability estimation typically focus on either laminated shale or dispersed clay, but they are limited in their reliability when both are present simultaneously. We introduce a new permeability estimation model designed specifically for shaly sandstones, accounting for the simultaneous presence of both thin shale laminations and dispersed clay. It incorporates the volumetric concentrations of shale lamination and grain-coating clay, and accounts for their respective permeability endpoints in conjunction with clean sandstone permeability to improve the estimation of in-situ rock permeability from well logs. Furthermore, we develop an advanced approach for implementing nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) permeability models, particularly in the presence of thinly laminated shale and immiscible fluids. By integrating the proposed NMR interpretation method with the new permeability model, we significantly improve the accuracy of the estimated formation permeability, hence obtaining a better match between rock core measurements and estimated permeability values. We validate and benchmark the permeability calculated with both our proposed model and the newly developed NMR interpretation method against core measurements from a published dataset and two field cases of heterogenous sandstones. In both field cases, we observe a 50% reduction in the deviation of permeability results from core measurements, indicating a significant improvement in the estimation of flow properties despite the associated rock complexity.
Temperature effects on the joint elastic-electrical properties of Berea sandstones
Authors: Han Tongcheng , Du Zixuan , He Haiming , Fu Li-Yun
Published: February 2025

Joint interpretation of seismic and electrical survey data can help to better characterize the subsurface. However, the key to the successful joint interpretation is to understand the correlations between the elastic and electrical properties (i.e., the joint elastic-electrical properties) of the underground rocks. This work aims to investigate the effects of temperature on the joint elastic-electrical properties of porous rocks by simultaneously measuring the P-wave velocity, electrical conductivity and porosity of five brine saturated Berea sandstones as a function of varying temperature from 25 °C to 140 °C. We find that velocity first increases and then decreases with increasing electrical conductivity with implicitly increasing temperature. We further find that the variation of the temperature dependent joint elastic-electrical properties is determined by the dependence of velocity on temperature with a local maximum, because electrical conductivity shows strong linear increase with increasing temperature. Analyses of the experimental results illustrate that the observed variation of velocity with temperature is the combined and competitive result of the temperature-induced variations in the pore aspect ratio that quantitatively characterizes the pore structure, the properties of brine that fully saturates the samples, and the porosity of the samples, with their importance in descending order. The results reveal how the elastic velocity in Berea sandstones is affected by temperature, which in-turn provides insights into the effects of temperature on the joint elastic-electrical properties of Berea sandstones that will help to improve the joint interpretation of seismic and electrical survey data to better characterize the petroleum and geothermal reservoirs.
Disease-specific mortality of differentiated thyroid cancer with distant metastases
Authors: Howaidi Ali , Alswailem Anwar , Hakami Abdulrahman , Hadadi Afnan , Alturki Deema , Abothenain Fayha , Alobaid Lulu , Ewain Najla Saleh , Murugan Avaniyapuram Kannan , Alzahrani Ali S
Published: February 2025

Distant metastases (DM) are the major cause of death in patients with differentiated thyroid cancer (DTC). This study aimed to investigate the predictors of DM-associated mortality.

Patients and Methods

We identified 154 thyroid cancer (TC) patients with DM from our institution’s tumor registry. We excluded anaplastic (n=21) and medullary TC (n=32) and patients with inadequate data (n=15). The remaining 86 patients with DTC were studied. These include 57 females (66.3%) and 29 males (33.7%) with a median age of 53.5 years (IQR 45-65). All patients underwent thyroidectomy, 58 (67.4%) had neck dissection and 81(94.2%) received I-131 ablation/therapy.

Results

Lung metastases were the most common occurring in 91.9%, skeletal metastases in 58.1%, brain metastases in 9.3%, and multiple-organ DM in 58%. The management of DM included surgery, one or more doses of I-131, external beam radiotherapy, and multi-kinase inhibitors (TKI). Over a median follow-up of 84 months (IQR 35.5-118), 47 patients succumb to their disease (disease-specific mortality 54.7%). Factors associated with mortality were increasing age (P = 0.001) and bone metastases (P <0.0001). These factors remained significant in multivariate analyses [for age, P = 0.009, Hazard ratio (HR) 1.030 (95% CI 1.007-1.053) and for bone metastases, P = 0.017, HR 2.58 (95% CI 1.19-5.6)].

Conclusions

DM from DTC are associated with ∼ 55% mortality and a median survival of 47 months. Increasing age and skeletal metastases are predictors of an increased risk of mortality.
Physical Activity Patterns and Variability, Cognitive Performance, and Dementia in the National Health and Aging Trends Study
Authors: Davoudi Anis , Donahue Patrick T. , Carlson Michelle C. , Dougherty Ryan J. , Wanigatunga Amal A. , Freedman Vicki A. , Schrack Jennifer A.
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Physical activity is a modifiable risk factor for dementia. However, the potential reverse effect of adverse cognitive change on physical activity remains underexplored.

Methods

Cross-sectional analysis of a subset of National Health and Aging Trends Study (NHATS, N = 706) U.S. Medicare beneficiaries. Dementia status (dementia vs. no dementia) was classified per NHATS protocol. Cognitive performance was assessed in executive function, orientation, and memory domains. Daily physical activity was assessed using wrist-worn accelerometers (Actigraph Insight).

Results

Compared to participants living without dementia, participants living with dementia had lower daily activity counts (×1000) (-319.3; 95%CI (-471.0, -167.5)), lower activity intensity (-1129.2 max counts/day; 95%CI (-1518.4, -740.0)), less time spent active (64.3 min/day; 95%CI (28.1, 100.4)), and more fragmented patterns of activity (6.1%; 95%CI (3.0, 9.2)). One-unit higher cognitive performance in executive function was associated with higher daily activity counts (x1000) (67.9; 95% CI (19.7, 116.0)), higher activity intensity (375.4; 95% CI: (232.0-518.7)), more time spent active (12.4 min; 95% CI (2.1-22.7), and lower fragmentation (-1.4%; 95% CI (-2.2- -0.5)). One-unit higher orientation score was associated with higher daily activity counts (x1000) (61.0; 95% CI (31.9-90.0)), higher activity intensity (266.6; 95% CI (197.9-335.2)), more time spent active (11.6; 95% CI (5.2-18.0) more active minutes), greater stability of daily activities (1.1; 95% CI (0.3-1.9)), and lower fragmentation (-1.2%; 95% CI (-1.7- -0.7)). One-unit higher memory score was associated with higher daily activity counts (x1000) (28.1; 95% CI (15.0-41.2)), higher activity intensity (113.5; 95% CI (77.0-150.1)), and more time spent active (5.2; 95% CI (2.4-8.0)), as well as lower fragmentation (-0.5%; 95% CI (-0.7- -0.3)).

Conclusions

In a nationally representative sample of older U.S. adults, dementia and lower cognitive performance were associated with lower volume and intensity of daily physical activity, as well as more fragmented and less consistent patterns of physical activity. These associations emphasize the need for considering the impact of cognition on individuals' ability to engage in and maintain regular physical activity and suggest shifts in daily quantities and patterns of activity consistent with cognitive decline and dementia.
The "Mantle of the Expert" as a didactic method in the context of teaching History of Science to elementary school children
Authors: Papadopoulos Simos , Mamali Evi , Filippoupoliti Anastasia
Published: February 2025

This paper discusses the implementation of a didactic intervention of a two-cycle Action Research to nineteen sixth-grade students, aiming at teaching elements of physical sciences through the History of Science lens. Using the "Mantle of the Expert" as a teaching method, the intervention is based on a cross-curricular and project-based approach in a dramatic context. Based on the ‘Mantle of the Expert’ stages, enriched further with specific drama techniques, concepts and themes from the History of Science are examined experientially. In addition, a moral and critical evaluation of Science regarding human life is attempted. The evaluation of the intervention is conducted regarding the effectiveness of the "Mantle of the Expert" as a didactic method as well as the level of achieving the learning goals.
Rodzina jako kluczowa instytucja kształtująca prawidłowe wzorce korzystania z mediów cyfrowych
Authors: Kowalczuk Karol
Published: February 2025

Dynamiczne przeobrażania cywilizacyjne bezpośrednio przekładają się na instytucję rodziny. Obecnie staje ona w obliczu transformacji związanej z jej funkcjonowaniem w przestrzeni społecznej. Proces ten w dużej mierze jest determinowany nowymi rozwiązaniami cyfrowymi, których powszechność w społeczeństwie stale wzrasta. Jednak pojawienie się nawet bardzo zaawansowanych technologii nie degraduje roli rodziców w procesie wychowania, a wręcz przeciwnie, stawia przed nimi nowe wyzwania i podnosi ich rangę we współczesnym procesie kształtowania charakterów młodych ludzi.Celem artykułu jest przedstawienie roli rodziny jako kluczowej instytucji kształtującej prawidłowe wzorce funkcjonowania dzieci we współczesnej przestrzeni społecznej modelowanej przez nowe technologie. Dokonana w artykule teoretyczna analiza prezentuje rodzinę jako kluczową instytucję odpowiedzialną za wychowanie, opisuje specyfikę funkcjonowania dzieci w świecie zdominowanym przez nowe technologie, a także wskazuje na prawidłowe postawy rodziców wobec podopiecznych korzystających z cyfrowych narzędzi, podkreślając jednocześnie istotną rolę, jaką odgrywa tradycyjna rodzina nawet w świecie, w którym coraz więcej podejmowanych aktywności ma wymiar digitalny.
Microecology of pyodermia pathogens
Authors: Stepan V. , Stepan N. , Stepan B.
Published: February 2025

Gram-positive cocci are usually considered the leading pathogens of pyoderma. However, understanding intermicrobial interactions, as well as identifying the leading pathogens and their associates, require a more detailed study of microbial contamination of the skin other than a simple statement of the taxonomic composition of the microbial community of the biofilm. The aim of this study is to determine the microecological indicators of pyoderma pathogens.
Material and methods. 97 patients with pyoderma were examined, material was taken during dressing and bacteriological examination was carried out no later than 2 hours later. A number of microecological indices were calculated (constancy index, Margalef species richness index, Whittaker species diversity index, Simpson and Berger-Parker species dominance indices, statistical processing – by the method of variation statistics.
Results. In total, 197 strains of conditionally pathogenic Gram-positive (89.85%) and Gram-negative (20-10.15%) bacteria were isolated and identified in the cohort of patients. Coagulase-positive S. aureus was the main one in the microbial group according to the constancy index, frequency of occurrence, Margalef species richness index, Simpson species diversity index and Berger-Parker species dominance. In 94 (96.91%) patients, associations consisting of two different taxa were detected, and in 3 (3.09%) associations consisting of 3 conditionally pathogenic taxa.
Conclusions. Pyodermas are polyetiological diseases caused by both Gram-positive and Gram-negative, facultative anaerobic and aerobic bacteria with a significant predominance of Gram-positive cocci, which are in association with other conditionally pathogenic microorganisms. According to the taxonomic composition and microecological indicators, the leading pathogens of pyodermas are S. aureus, P. aeruginosa, S. pyogenes and P. vulgaris, E. coli, E. coli Hly+ and E. Aerogenes.
Exploring the Relationship between Serum IL-33 Levels and Clinical Manifestations in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: A Comprehensive Analysis
Authors: Lu Xiang , Yan Shanle , Xue Yuan
Published: February 2025

Aims/Background Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a complex autoimmune disorder characterised by an unpredictable disease course and multifaceted clinical presentations. Recent studies have highlighted the potential role of interleukin-33 (IL-33) in autoimmune diseases, but its exact relationship with SLE remains unclear. Therefore, to investigate the role of serum IL-33 levels as a biomarker, we evaluated its correlation with disease activity and organ damage in SLE patients.

Methods This retrospective analysis included 120 SLE patients from the Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University between January 2018 and December 2022. For comparative analysis, we recruited 60 healthy controls. Correlations between IL-33 levels and disease metrics were evaluated, and subgroup analyses were performed to explore specific clinical associations.

Results Our findings revealed that SLE patients had significantly higher serum IL-33 levels than the control group (258.7 ± 103.5 pg/mL vs 78.3 ± 32.6 pg/mL, p < 0.001). Furthermore, IL-33 levels showed a significant association with both disease activity (Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Disease Activity Index (SLEDAI)) (r = 0.68, p < 0.001) and cumulative organ damage (Systemic Lupus International Collaborating Clinics/American College of Rheumatology Damage Index (SLICC/ACR DI)) scores (r = 0.45, p < 0.01). Notably, patients with active disease (SLEDAI ≥6) exhibited substantially elevated IL-33 levels (p < 0.001). Patients with organ damage (SLICC/ACR DI ≥1) demonstrated significantly higher IL-33 levels than those without organ damage (289.6 ± 95.3 pg/mL vs 234.1 ± 86.2 pg/mL, p = 0.001), and those with renal involvement showed higher IL-33 levels (p < 0.01). Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis revealed better diagnostic potential of serum IL-33 levels for SLE (area under the curve (AUC) = 0.892, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.845–0.939, sensitivity = 84.2%, specificity = 82.7%) and for identifying active disease (AUC = 0.816, 95% CI: 0.752–0.880, sensitivity = 77.8%, specificity = 75.0%).

Conclusion Our findings suggest that serum IL-33 may serve as a promising biomarker for comprehensive SLE assessment, offering new avenues for monitoring disease progression and guiding therapeutic strategies.
Impact of Individualized Comfort-Based Combined Anesthesia Protocol on Elderly Patients Undergoing Outpatient Oral Procedures
Authors: Cao Chen , Hu Dawei , Cao Jing , Zhu Wenjing , Zhang Xiaotong , Pan Chuxiong
Published: February 2025

Aims/Background Anxiety, fear, and lack of confidence in surgical outcomes can lower the pain threshold of elderly patients. Developing individualized and comfortable anesthesia protocols is critical for optimizing outcomes in elderly patients undergoing oral procedures. This study aimed to investigate the impact of an individualized comfort anesthesia protocol on elderly patients with varying levels of dental anxiety undergoing complex tooth extraction.

Methods A retrospective analysis was conducted on 210 elderly patients who underwent complex tooth extractions at the Comfort Oral Treatment VIP Center and Oral Surgery Department of Beijing Stomatological Hospital, Capital Medical University, between December 2022 and May 2024. Patients were categorized into three groups based on Corah’s Dental Anxiety Scale: mild dental anxiety (Group G1, 72 cases), moderate dental anxiety (Group G2, 72 cases), and severe dental anxiety (Group G3, 66 cases). Corresponding anesthesia regimens were administered: 0.06 mg/kg, 0.08 mg/kg + 0.03 μg/kg/time, and 0.06 mg/kg + 0.05 μg/kg/time, respectively. Mean arterial pressure (MAP), bispectral index (BIS), and heart rate (HR) were measured at sedation onset (T1), after local anesthesia injection (T2), and at the end of tooth extraction (T3). Sedation onset time, recovery time, discharge time, and adverse reactions were also recorded.

Results Repeated measures analysis of variance (ANOVA) revealed significant difference in BIS within groups over time (p < 0.001), with notable group-by-time interactions (p < 0.001) and significant within-group effects (p < 0.001). For MAP, there was a significant within-group effect (p < 0.001) and group-by-time effect (p < 0.001), while the time effect was not statistically significant (p = 0.302). HR demonstrated a significant within-group effect (p < 0.001) but no significant time effects (p = 0.278) and marginally non-significant group-by-time interactions (p = 0.052). Compared with Group G3, Groups G1 and G2 exhibited shorter sedation onset, recovery times, and discharge times (p < 0.001). Additionally, Group G3 had longer sedation onset and recovery times compared to Group G2 (p < 0.001). No significant difference in discharge times was observed between Groups G1 and G2 (p > 0.05). Among the adverse reactions, bradycardia and drowsiness were significantly more frequent in specific groups (p < 0.05).

Conclusion An individualized comfort-based anesthesia protocol tailored to the levels of anxiety, fear, and anticipated pain effectively provides optimal sedative and anesthetic outcomes for elderly patients undergoing complex tooth extractions in outpatient settings. This approach exhibits significant benefits in sedation onset, recovery, and discharge times while minimizing adverse reactions, making it a practical and effective option for clinical application.
The Evolving Paradigm of Myocardial Infarction in the Era of Artificial Intelligence
Authors: Dali Maroua , Bogle Cecilia Maria Elizabeth , Bogle Richard Gordon
Published: February 2025

The classification and treatment of myocardial infarction (MI) have evolved significantly over the past few decades, with the ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI)/non-STEMI (NSTEMI) paradigm dominating clinical practice. While STEMI, identified by ST-segment elevation (STE) on electrocardiogram (ECG), has been the hallmark for urgent reperfusion therapy, this model misses a substantial number of patients with occlusive myocardial infarction (OMI) who do not exhibit STE. Recent evidence reveals that up to 25% of NSTEMI patients have OMI, leading to higher mortality due to delayed reperfusion. The emerging OMI/NOMI (Occlusive vs. Non-Occlusive MI) paradigm offers a more nuanced approach, incorporating advanced ECG interpretation and tools like point-of-care echocardiography and artificial intelligence (AI). AI has shown promise in detecting subtle ECG changes indicative of OMI, improving diagnostic accuracy and reducing misdiagnosis. This paradigm shift has important implications for clinical practice, calling for earlier identification of OMI and more inclusive treatment strategies to enhance patient outcomes.
A systematic review on stress related to delirium care
Authors: Gwon Su Min , Kim Gaeun
Published: February 2025

Purpose: The purpose of this systematic review was to analyze stress related to delirium care. Method: This systematic review examined literature from 2007 to 2024. Existing literature was searched from the electronic databases of RISS and KISS. Result: Six studies were included in the analysis after excluding duplicate, correlated studies, literature review, and unrelated studies. The review included six studies. After reviewing the literature of six papers, five were descriptive studies and one was experimental studies. Factors related to delirium knowledge, nursing outcomes for delirium. And in one experimental study, delirium nursing stress was reduced after applying the delirium education program. Conclusion: The findings from the study highlighted useful information as a basis for delirium nursing stress. Research on various factors related to delirium nursing stress is needed. We suggest the development of delirium nursing education programs. A systematic literature review or meta-analysis is required in this field.
Adequate nursing staffing for emerging infectious disease: Integrative review
Authors: Kim Jeonghee , Park Namjeong
Published: February 2025

Purpose: This integrative review synthesizes existing literature on nursing staffing during COVID-19, focusing on nurse-to-patient ratios and their impact on patient outcomes, including mortality and safety, as well as on nurse outcomes such as job satisfaction and burnout. Method: Whittemore and Knafl's (2005) integrative review methodology was used for the review. Literature published between 2019 and 2024 was reviewed using PubMed, EMBASE, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL) using the key words ‘nursing’, ‘staffing’, ‘Covid-19’, and ‘Nurse-to-patient ratio’. Studies were systematically selected and evaluated using Covidence software. Results: Twelve studies met the inclusion criteria, highlighting variation in nurse-to-patient ratios across countries and study settings. Although there were some differences across studies, the nurse-topatient ratio was found to be associated with patient mortality and the occurrence of nursing adverse events. During COVID-19 patient care, Nurse Activity Scores (NAS) notably increased compared to pre-pandemic levels, indicating a heavier workload for nurses, even if the recommended ICU ratio of 1:2 was maintained. Additionally, the expansion of isolation beds led to nursing shortages, with some units unable to meet targeted nurse-to-patient ratios. Conclusion: This review underscores the critical role of adequate nurse staffing in ensuring patient safety and nurse job satisfaction during public health crises. It also calls for flexible and systematic workforce allocation strategies to enhance readiness for future pandemics.
Development and application of diabetes escape room simulation for nursing students: A pilot study
Authors: Jung Soo Youn , Kim Young Jin , Moon Kyoung Ja
Published: February 2025

Purpose: Given managing blood sugar levels is crucial for preventing complications in diabetes, development of an effective diabetic program is essential. Incorporating games into nursing education has been considered as a strategy to enhance motivation and active participation. This pilot study aimed to develop and implement a diabetes simulation program using escape rooms. Methods: This program was designed the program title, educational objectives, and educational operation methods. Participants included 30 third- and fourth-year nursing students. They completed missions involving solving puzzles, f inding passwords, and locating answer cards across three rooms themed around understanding, treating, and managing the lifestyle habits associated with diabetes. After completing the escape rooms, data were collected through telephone interviews with eight participants. The experiences and perceptions of the program were analyzed using the phenomenological approach. Results: We found three key themes: collaborating with team members, new learning methods for major subjects, and expectations for broader applications of escape rooms in nursing education. Conclusion: The escape room approach is an effective nursing education method that enhances learners’ motivation and satisfaction. Further studies with larger sample sizes are needed to validate these findings and evaluate their broader applicability.
Analysis of differences in death anxiety and preferences for care near the end of life scale according to age of elderly nursing hospital
Authors: Joung Ji Hun
Published: February 2025

Purpose: This study aims to identify age-related differences in death anxiety and Preferences for Care Near the End of Life among elderly patients in long-term care hospitals, focusing on variations as length of stay increases. Methods: To analyze the differences in general characteristics of elderly individuals in long-term care hospitals based on age, a chi-square test was conducted for cross-analysis. The t-test was used to analyze differences in levels of death anxiety and Preferences for Care Near the End of Life according to age among elderly patients in long-term care hospitals. Results: The difference in death anxiety by age of the subjects was 2.91±0.62 for the elderly under 75 years of age and 3.23±0.29 for the elderly over 75 years of age, showing that death anxiety was higher in the elderly over 75 years of age(p=.002). The difference in Preferences for Care Near the End of Life according to the age of the subjects was 3.03±0.38 for the elderly under 75 years of age and 3.15±0.26 for the elderly over 75 years of age, showing that Preferences for Care Near the End of Life was higher in the elderly over 75 years of age(p=.034). Conclusion: Since elderly people residing in long-term care hospitals have high levels of death anxiety and Preferences for Care Near the End of Life, it is necessary to regularly assess the level of death anxiety and Preferences for Care Near the End of Life among elderly people to provide appropriate management.
Sleep experience among hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) patients during protective isolation
Authors: Park Sang-Eun , Jun Sangeun
Published: February 2025

Purpose: This descriptive qualitative study explored the sleep experiences among hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) patients during protective isolation. Methods: Data were collected between October 2014 and May 2015 through in-depth interviews with 10 HSCT patients who had been in isolation for at least 3 days. Interviews took place in isolation rooms, with 1-3 sessions per participant, each lasting 30 minutes to 2 hours. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis. Results: Three main themes emerged: ‘Sleep in a confined space’, ‘Thoughts filling sleepless hours’ and ‘The double-edged sword of smartphones’. Participants described 8 related sub themes: the components in sleep of patients with HSCT who were hospitalized in a protective isolation unit were as follows. (1) A stifling environment where time stands still (2) Difficulty sleeping in confinement (3) Insomnia as something to endure (4) Aversion to sleeping pills (5) Worry and anxiety (6) Reflecting on life (7) Smartphones as a support to endure time (8) Smartphones disrupting sleep. Conclusion: HSCT patients faced significant sleep disturbances due to confinement, anxiety, and environmental factors. They often accepted these difficulties as unavoidable aspects of treatment. Future interventions should promote sleep hygiene through patient-provider communication and improve the sleep environment. Further research is needed to develop effective nursing strategies to address these sleep issues.
The Impact of the Covid-19 Pandemic on Educational Policies and the European Integration Process
Authors: Guerra Filipe
Published: February 2025

This article deals with the European Union's educational policies during the Covid-19 pandemic when several cracks and vulnerabilities in its Member States' education systems were exposed across the European Union (EU). In this sense, and with this exceptional period as a reference, we propose to research whether the Community's educational policies reflect a reinforcement of the commitment to education as one of the pillars of European integration. Other studies have not yet addressed the possible impact of this exceptional period on the design of European educational policies as integration mechanisms. Namely, whether there would be a pause in the integration process or, on the contrary, its strengthening and, if so, in what respect. For this research objective, several documents from the most important European institutions were examined. Its results allow us to verify the intention to renew education as an essential element of European integration and as an instrument to promote the EU as an economically stable and socially integrated community.
Feed quality of some populations and varieties of sorghum
Authors: Alane Farida , H. RAHALE-BOUZIANE  , Z. FADJER
Published: February 2025

Abstract. Alane F, Rahale-Bouziane H, Fadjer Z. 2020. Feed quality of some populations and varieties of sorghum. Asian J Agric 4: 5-13. This research aimed to characterize some local populations and those from ACSAD through two trials. The Sudan population is believed to be better than the other two local populations. There is one with an average height of 55.07 cm and an average number of tillers per square meter 128/m², that offers a green and dry yield of 5311.47 g/m² and 497.2 g/m² respectively. In the second test, the comparison of the chemical composition of the pasty milky and hard grain stages did not register a big difference. CP was almost the same (6.66% and 6.1%). The varieties Masser 17, Ezzera, and Biofuel from milky-pasty stage to hard grain stage has their cellulose rate decrease. The maturity of the seed is reached between 82 and 92 days after sowing and their sizes vary between 71 cm and 1.26 m. The average cellulose level of milky-pasty populations is 26.08% and the hard-grain stage is 28.44%. The analysis of the principal components at the hard grain stage has constituted two groups: Kherssi, Beida Adrar, Tougourte, Ain Sallah. Ezzera, Biofuel, Masser17, El Menea. Greater diversity in the chemical composition of the stems, than in those of the leaves more digested was observed.