bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Application of The Asoka Model With Street Photography Media Based on Local Wisdom in Improving Students' Creative Thinking Abilities
Authors: Sofino Sofino , Gusti Ririn , Hutauruk Lenni Mantili , Pradikto Bayu
Published: February 2025

The results of the monitoring of the Non-formal Education Study Program coordinator for the student creative work course (PNF-202) semester III in the 2023-2024 academic year are practical courses that have minimal field practice. This course allows students to engage in activities in the community and see portraits of social and educational issues in the community. The results of SIEPEL v2.0 University of Bengkulu in 2023-2024 stated that this course had the lowest average satisfaction in semester III, especially in terms of pedagogical and social competence. Even 65% of students want to improve their learning, especially in practical activities in the community, using accurate models, methods, and approaches. This study aimed to analyze the application of the ASOKA model with street photography media based on local wisdom in improving students' creative thinking skills. This study uses a non-equivalent control group design experimental method with a sample of 26 students in semester III-A and 25 students in semester III-B as the control class. Data analysis was done using SPSS 22 software on pretest and posttest data, normality test, homogeneity test, and t-test. The study results indicate that applying the ASOKA model with street photography media based on local wisdom improves students' creative thinking skills in fluency, flexibility, originality, and elaboration. The t-test or hypothesis test results show that t-count = 10.983> t-table = 2.010, which means that the model used significantly improves students' creative thinking skills more than conventionall.
Features of blood transfusion in the subjects of the Russian Federation.
Authors:   Republican Clinical Hospital, Turaeva R. R. , Turaev R. G. ,   Republican Blood Center, Khamitov R. G. ,   Republican Blood Transfusion Station, Zhiburt E. B. ,   Pirogov National Medical and Surgical Center
Published: February 2025

We determined the indicators of clinical work of transfusiologists of the constituent entities of the Russian Federation in 2023 in comparison with the indicators of 2018. We assessed the degree of heterogeneity of the clinical activities of the blood service. In 2023, 1,380,630 people (0.94% of the population) received blood and its components transfusions. They performed 3.8 million transfusions of blood and its components in a total volume of more than 1 million liters. Among the 549,076 doctors in Russia in 2023, 2,156 transfusionists worked (0.39%).
The results of the analysis indicate an increase in standardization in the work of regional blood services:
- decile coefficients of clinical transfusion indicators in the regions in 2023 ranged from 1.46 to 4.67, while in 2018 – from 1.69 to 5.58;
- 8 out of 9 decile coefficients of «transfusion» indicators in 2023 decreased by 0.83–18.89%.
Work functions of a general practitioner when providing medical care to neurological patients in a multidisciplinary clinic.
Authors:   Federal State Autonomous Educational Institution of Higher Education I. M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation (Sechenov University), Volnukhin A.V. , Borodulina I.V. ,   Federal State Budgetary Educational Institution of Additional Professional Education «Russian Medical Academy of Continuous Professional Education», Morozova T.E. ,   Federal State Autonomous Educational Institution of Higher Education I. M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation (Sechenov University), Vorob’ova O.V. ,   Federal State Autonomous Educational Institution of Higher Education I. M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation (Sechenov University)
Published: February 2025

Compliance with a patient-oriented approach, ensuring continuity, accessibility and quality of primary health care for patients with a neurological profile requires a clear delineation of the areas of professional responsibility between a general practitioner and a neurologist, scientific justification and development of an algorithm for their interaction in outpatient settings.
Purpose of the study is to determine the work functions of a general practitioner in providing primary health care to patients with diseases of the nervous system in a multidisciplinary clinic, development and proposal of an algorithm for his interaction with a neurologist.
Materials and methods. The expert assessment method was used. 41 experts who met the inclusion criteria took part in the study.
Results. According to the expert assessment, the main tasks of a general practitioner include early diagnosis and timely referral of patients to a specialist or hospitalization for diseases such as epilepsy, Parkinson’s disease/Parkinsonism syndrome, sleep disorders, multiple sclerosis, cerebrovascular disease/vascular cognitive impairment, acute cerebrovascular accident, neuropathies and neuralgia, migraine, dorsopathies, tension headache. He can carry out dynamic observation and control of treatment for tension headaches, migraines, dorsopathies. In other countries, the work functions performed by a general practitioner largely correspond to those determined by the experts in this study.
Findings. The result of a comprehensive analysis of the expert assessment results and scientific literature data was the developed algorithm for interaction between a general practitioner and a neurologist in providing primary health care to patients with diseases of the nervous system in a multidisciplinary clinic. Important aspects of the algorithm are dynamic observation of the patient by a general practitioner and his/her partnership with a neurologist.
Comparative analysis of quantitative indicators for dental sanitation of patients living in rural areas of Belgorod region in the conditions of the central district hospitals.
Authors:   N. A. Semashko National Research Institute of Public Health, Stepanova Y. S.
Published: February 2025

The article presents the results of a comparative analysis of quantitative indicators for dental sanitation of patients living in rural areas of the Belgorod region for 2017 and 2021, in the conditions of the Central District Hospital. A decrease in the number of fillings placed in
2021 compared to 2017 was proven. The most significant decrease was revealed in the indicators «number of fillings placed for pulpitis» and «number of fillings placed for periodontitis». The universally identified decrease in the number of fillings placed necessitated the assessment of the need for endodontic treatment of patients living in rural areas and deprived of the opportunity for oral sanitation at their place of residence.
Preoperative Optimization Strategies in Elective Spine Surgery
Authors: Daniels Alan H. , Singh Manjot , Knebel Ashley , Thomson Cameron , Kuharski Michael J. , De Varona Abel , Nassar Joseph E. , Farias Michael J. , Diebo Bassel G.
Published: February 2025

» Although spine surgery is effective in reducing pain and improving functional status, it is associated with unacceptably high rates of complications, thus necessitating comprehensive preoperative patient optimization.

» Numerous risk factors that can impact long-term surgical outcomes have been identified, including malnutrition, cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, substance use, and more.

» Preoperative screening and personalized, evidence-based interventions to manage medical comorbidities and optimize medications can enhance clinical outcomes and improve patient satisfaction following spine surgery.

» Multidisciplinary team-based approaches, such as enhanced recovery after surgery protocols and multidisciplinary conferences, can further facilitate coordinated care from across specialties and reduce overall hospital length of stay.
The Mapping Of Shoreline Change Caused By Accretion And Abration As An Impact Of Tin Minning In Pangkalpinang
Authors: Akhrianti Irma , Nugraha Moh Agung , Gustomi Andi , Arizona Mohammad Oka
Published: February 2025

ABSTRACTBangka Island is the biggest tin producer in Indonesia. Pangkalpinang is the capital city of Bangka Belitung Archipelago which has 36 km2 shoreline and is one of the areas affected by anthropogenic activities especially tin minning activities. This study aims to determine the changes of position and rate of shoreline change in 2000 – 2022 using multitemporal imagery in Pangkalpinang. This study used remote sensing method (Algorhytm of Normalized Difference Water Index) and geographic information system with on screen digitation approach using DSAS (Digital Shoreline Analysis). Shoreline position measurement using the NSM analysis and rate of shoreline change using the EPR analysis. Digital image processing result showed that shoreline position at coastal region in Pangkalpinang has changed in 22 years. At sector A (Pasir Padi area), The land mass accretion/ maximum accretion occurred at Serata, Pasir Padi Beach adjacent to Batu Rusa estuary which was 63,6 m with shoreline rate change was approximately 2.89 m/year, while the land mass decreasement/ highest abration occurred in Pasir Padi Beach was 164,5 m with the shoreline rate change was approximately 7.48 m/ year. At sector B (Tanjung Bunga Area) abration occurred was -124.6 m with the shoreline rate change was approximately 5.66 m/year. At sector C (Sampur Beach Area) abration occurred was 81 m with shoreline rate change was 3.68 m/tahun. The average of shoreline change rate in Pangkalpinang affected by abration was 2.5 m/year while the average of shoreline change affected due to accretion was 2.89 m/year whereas there were 2 beaches in Pangkalpinang which did not experience the accretion, namely Tanjung Bunga Beach and Sampur Beach.Keywords: Shoreline, Pangkalpinang, Accretion, Abration, Tin Minning
Demographic Oases in Shrinking Rural Areas: Exploring Trends in Galicia (Spain) and Northern Portugal
Authors: Otero Varela Alejandro , Gusman Inês , Patiño Romarís Carlos Alberto
Published: February 2025

Despite their similar characteristics and shared challenges, Galicia and Northern Portugal are integrated into distinct national urban systems and have followed different territorial cohesion approaches. This study compares these regions to analyze their demographic dynamics and identify territories that exhibit resilience towards severe rural depopulation. Our findings reveal that both regions are intersected by the same Atlantic Urban Axis, where the highest population volumes and densities are concentrated. In contrast, the rural interior of the study area is experiencing strong and continuous demographic loss. However, upon examining demographic trends, alongside key socioeconomic indicators at a fine scale, we identify areas within predominantly rural regions that demonstrate resilience to decline. We termed them demographic oases. Our results indicate that the origins of these demographic oases are diverse —stemming from economic, administrative, and infrastructural factors— and, collectively, they play a crucial role in supporting their surrounding communities. Political approaches to territorial cohesion must acknowledge the significance of these oases, as their numbers are declining and they are essential for the sustainability of rural areas in both regions.
Oportunidades y limitaciones para la transición alimentaria y el desarrollo territorial en territorios rurales de baja densidad (Salamanca y Zamora)
Authors: Sánchez Hernández José Luis , Moro Gutiérrez Lourdes , Sierra Gómez Teresa
Published: February 2025

La producción, distribución y consumo de alimentos elaborados con criterios de sostenibilidad ambiental, económica y social se articula con frecuencia a través de redes ciudadanas territorializadas que propugnan un modelo alimentario basado en la proximidad geográfica. Este artículo analiza la aportación de estas redes alimentarias al desarrollo territorial en las provincias de Salamanca y Zamora, muy afectadas por la despoblación y la dispersión de los centros de producción y consumo. Tras compilar un inventario de casos activos, se ha entrevistado a una muestra de iniciativas representativas de todos los eslabones de la cadena de valor. La información recogida permite profundizar en tres cuestiones. Primera, los valores y objetivos que persiguen sus promotores. Segunda, su arraigo en este frágil territorio, fundamental para evaluar su contribución económica, social, ambiental y de gobernanza. Y tercera, las limitaciones que el entorno territorial y el marco institucional y de gobernanza imponen al fortalecimiento de estas iniciativas. Se concluye que el capital social que subyace en estas redes alimentarias es el recurso fundamental que sostiene su capacidad para aprovechar el capital natural del territorio, a pesar de las limitadas capacidades económicas y del desigual apoyo que reciben por parte de las Administraciones Públicas.
Propuestas para afrontar la despoblación desde lo local y la relevancia de los mecanismos de desarrollo neo-endógeno: el caso de Andalucía (España)
Authors: Navarro Valverde Francisco Antonio , Capote Lama Alberto , Porcel Rodríguez Laura , Cejudo García Eugenio
Published: February 2025

La consideración del conocimiento y experiencia de las comunidades rurales es clave para afrontar la despoblación. Dentro de este marco es necesario sistematizar buenas y malas praxis, extrayendo enseñanzas de éstas, conocer la relevancia que otorgan a determinadas acciones públicas, y abundar en las propuestas que se proponen desde las comunidades afectadas. Con el soporte de 120 entrevistas a actores clave locales (docentes, políticos, empresarios, jóvenes, mujeres, y personas de avanzada edad) de veinte municipios rurales de Andalucía, se abordan una serie de preguntas: relevancia de determinadas acciones, iniciativas fracasadas, actuaciones que contribuyen a paliar el fenómeno y propuestas desde lo local. De lo extraído se puede afirmar que la primera línea de defensa para combatir la despoblación debe ser desde lo local y por los locales. Ahora bien, y tras el análisis de lo manifestado por los entrevistados, es necesario que se manejen en mayor medida mecanismos ligados al desarrollo neo-endógeno: reforzamiento de la gobernanza local, emplear los recursos y saber hacer local, el fortalecimiento de las capacidades y la formación, y la mejora y promoción del capital e innovación social. Todo ello junto con otras actuaciones paralelas ligadas en mayor medida a la intervención pública y con tinte mitigador.
Transecto espacial urbano-rural: procesos socio-territoriales en la España escasamente poblada: el caso del Valle del Tiétar
Authors: Ruiz Javier , Delgado Miguel Ángel , Ardura Álvaro , Mohino Inmaculada
Published: February 2025

Los factores de desequilibrio que han conducido a un importante proceso de despoblación en un amplio territorio español son de una extrema complejidad y devienen en una pluralidad de situaciones y problemáticas. A través del uso del método analítico del transecto espacial, se pretende establecer un marco de conocimiento de esta complejidad que integra múltiples variables territoriales, desde la disposición de elementos a la topología consecuente. Se incide en la componente espacial de dichas variables, que condicionan tanto la funcionalidad presente del territorio (movilidad, provisión de servicios) como en la orientación del proceso hacia futuros posibles más o menos deseables. El método se implementa en un caso de estudio, el Valle del río Tiétar, al sur de la provincia de Ávila, una comarca cuya debilidad demográfica se ha visto agravada en las últimas décadas y ha estado sometida a procesos de reequilibrio espacial. El método del transecto permite tanto hacer un seguimiento de las alteraciones en la heterogeneidad del territorio como, a través de una lectura hermenéutica del paisaje, entender los procesos en marcha, reivindicando, además, la cuenca fluvial del caso de estudio como unidad territorial funcional.
Relación médico paciente en el tratamiento de enfermedades crónicas del adulto mayor
Authors:   , Castillo Sierra Albert Toshio
Published: February 2025

Introducción: La relación médico-paciente es esencial en el cuidado de la salud, especialmente en el manejo de enfermedades crónicas como la diabetes, hipertensión y enfermedades respiratorias. A diferencia de las condiciones agudas, que requieren una intervención puntual, las enfermedades crónicas necesitan un enfoque integral y de largo plazo. Esta interacción no solo afecta la adherencia al tratamiento, sino que también influye en la calidad de vida del paciente. En el Perú, existe una carencia de estudios que aborden esta relación en el contexto del adulto mayor, especialmente en el entorno hospitalario. Objetivos: Estimar la asociación entre la relación médico paciente y el tratamiento de enfermedades crónicas del adulto mayor. Material y métodos: Se llevó a cabo un estudio observacional, transversal y analítico en una muestra de 88 adultos mayores de entre 60 y 85 años, atendidos en consultas externas y en hospitalización en el Hospital Central FAP. Los participantes fueron seleccionados mediante muestreo por conveniencia. Las variables principales fueron la relación médico-paciente, evaluada a través de una encuesta, y el tratamiento de enfermedades crónicas, medido mediante la percepción de los pacientes sobre la atención recibida. Resultados: La mayoría de los participantes eran varones, casados y jubilados, con un nivel educativo mayormente de secundaria. En cuanto a la relación médico-paciente, el 43,2% de los participantes percibió que el médico fue poco cortés o respetuoso. Solo el 10,2% consideró que el trato fue muy respetuoso y cortés. Además, el 52,3% expresó poca confianza en el médico. En relación al tratamiento, el 46,6% indicó que el médico no explicó adecuadamente el procedimiento a seguir, y solo el 9,1% afirmó que entendió completamente al médico. Conclusiones: La relación médico-paciente en el contexto de enfermedades crónicas en adultos mayores presenta una brecha significativa en términos de cortesía, empatía y confianza, lo que podría influir negativamente en la adherencia y efectividad del tratamiento. Futuros estudios deberían enfocarse en fortalecer estos aspectos para mejorar el manejo de enfermedades crónicas en esta población.
Effect of Nonreactive Minerals on Acid-Etching Hydraulic Fracture Behavior and Conductivity in Carbonate Rocks
Authors: Gou Bo , Liu Zi-Hao , Guo Jian-Chun , Pu Kun , Ren Ji-Chuan , He Le , Guo Ling-Yao
Published: February 2025

Nonreactive minerals, such as quartz and talc, are frequently observed in carbonate reservoirs due to the sedimentary environment and geological processes. However, scant attention has been given by scholars to the impact of these nonreactive minerals on acid-etched fracture morphology and conductivity during acid fracturing. To clarify the acid flow and reaction behavior in carbonate rock composed of complex minerals, a mineral characterization model simultaneous for calcite, dolomite, and nonreactive minerals is first developed in this paper. Then, combined with the thermal-hydraulic-chemical coupling acid-etching model, it can study the impact of mineral content and distribution on the acid-etching fracture behavior. In addition, the acid-etching model is validated by acid-etching laboratory experiments, and the acid-fracture conductivity model is also established by testing the conductivity of rock slabs with different mineral compositions. Based on the new model, the effects of different mineral compositions on the acid flow behavior, effective acid penetration distance (EAPD), and conductivity were investigated. The research results show that the mechanism of nonreactive mineral to increase EAPD depends on the initial hydraulic fracture width, mineral distribution, and content. The acid concentration profile along the fracture length has the feature of segmentation when the circumferential flow phenomenon occurs. With the increase of the nonreactive mineral content, the EAPD increasing rate in the calcite-nonreactive mineral interaction distribution formation is faster than that in calcite-dolomite. The impact of the nonreactive mineral on conductivity is large in limestone but can be ignored in dolomite. These ﬁndings can provide guidance for the design of acid fracturing in such siliceous carbonate reservoirs.
The effect of a vegan diet with or without resistance exercise on thigh muscle volume in older adults. Research protocol of the Vold-study: a 12-week randomized controlled trial
Authors: Domić Jacintha , Grootswagers Pol , Pinckaers Philippe JM , Groenendijk Inge , Rubert Josep , Loon Luc JC , Groot Lisette CPGM
Published: February 2025

Background
Plant-based diets are increasingly adopted. While augmenting plant-based food consumption holds important health benefits, plant-based foods exhibit a lower protein quantity and quality compared to animal-based foods. As such, a fully plant-based, i.e. vegan, diet may be suboptimal for the maintenance of skeletal muscle mass later in life. The primary objectives of this study protocol are therefore: 1) To assess the effect of a 12-week self-composed vegan diet in comparison to an omnivorous diet on thigh muscle volume in community-dwelling older adults; and 2) To assess the effect of a 12-week vegan diet combined with twice-weekly resistance exercise on thigh muscle volume in comparison to a vegan diet without resistance exercise in community-dwelling older adults.
Methods
Seventy-two community-dwelling individuals aged ≥ 65 years with a BMI between 23–32 kg/m2 will be included in this randomized controlled trial and will be randomly allocated to either follow their habitual omnivorous diet, a self-composed vegan diet, or a self-composed vegan diet combined with two sessions of resistance exercise per week for 12 weeks. Participants will be guided through monthly nutrition information meetings. Dietary intake and physical activity levels will be assessed using food records and accelerometery. The primary study outcome will be thigh muscle volume, assessed at baseline and after 12 weeks using magnetic resonance imaging. Secondary outcomes will be: fat distribution; muscle fat infiltration; muscle strength; bone mineral density; bone turnover markers; metabolic profile; insulin levels; cobalamin, iron and vitamin D status; gut metabolomics and metagenomics; gastro-intestinal symptoms; dietary intake. Measurements will take place at baseline, after 6 weeks, and after 12 weeks. Additionally, mixed muscle protein synthesis rates will be assessed during the first ten days of the intervention using a deuterium oxide protocol. Data will be analysed using independent t-tests and linear mixed models.
Discussion
The results will provide valuable insights regarding the implications of consuming a vegan diet later in life for skeletal muscle and other health outcomes and may contribute to the substantiation of the envisaged more plant-based dietary guidelines.
Trial registration:
The trial is registered at clinicaltrials.gov (NCT05809466; registered on 22 February 2023).
Effect of aspect ratio and load location on the structural response of catenary arches under concentrated loading
Authors: Teixeira Damiano Luis , Merwe Johann Eduard van der
Published: February 2025

The construction industry contributes substantially to global greenhouse gas emissions. The embodied carbon in reinforced concrete floors accounts for a large part of embodied carbon in building structures. Optimising the form of horizontal spanning structures will not only reduce the volume of material needed for these structures but might also reduce the size of foundations. It is well-known that a catenary arch is the optimal form to ensure pure compression throughout. Although this might be an ideal shape for horizontal spanning systems under a uniformly distributed load, the effect of concentrated loads must also be considered. This study investigated the impact of the span-to-depth aspect ratio on the response of arches under concentrated loads, both central and eccentric concentrated loads. Through a numerically validated experimental campaign, the aspect ratio of an arch influences the resistance of loading from which it was formed.
Internet Addiction, Cyberbullying and their effect on Mental Health: A study of University Students
Authors: Barman Tapan Kumar , Kumar Hiren
Published: February 2025

Background: The research has explored internet addiction, cyberbullying and their effect on mental health. Todays, internet addiction and cyberbullying are most sensitive topics in throughout the world especially in young students. Internet addiction is an excessive or uncontrolled online activities that causes pathological distress among users. Moreover, cyberbullying is an aggressive and deliberate activities within online platform that occurs by a person or group. However, there are some researches rigorously exploring the concept of internet addiction, cyberbullying and mental health of young adults.
Methods: To study internet addiction, cyberbullying and mental health of 314 randomly selected university students were measured by an adapted Bangla version of internet addiction test, cyberbullying scale and mental general health questionnaire. In order to analyze the effect of internet addiction and cyberbullying on mental health the subjects were classified into three groups (minimal, moderate and excessive) and comparison were made among three groups. To complete the analysis standard procedure was followed and then one way ANOVA, t test, post-hoc and Pearson’s correlation test were applied.
Results: A total of 314 students, among them 56.37% were males and 43.63% were females. The age range of the respondents was 19-21 years. Firstly, results stated that that minimal internet addicted students had significantly better mental health than moderate and excessive internet addicted students and mild cyberbullying victim students had significantly better mental health than moderate and severe cyberbullying victim students. Secondly, the results showed that internet addiction and cyberbullying were positively correlated (r=.406, p= 0.001) each other. And finally, the study also expressed that internet addiction (r=-.533, p= 0.001) and cyberbullying (r=-.592, p= 0.001) were negatively correlated mental health.
Conclusions: The findings of the research suggest that the excessive internet activity leads to psychological disturbance. It also affects daily functioning, quality relationships and academic performance for students. Similarly, cyberbullying also hampers psychological well-being and creates psychiatric problems. Finally, it also stated that internet addiction and cyberbullying had badly affected students’ psychological well-being and daily life functioning because internet addiction and cyberbullying positively correlated.
Functional Imaging of Developing Brain in Mice and Non-Human Primates
Authors: Qiu Zhihai , zhu Jiejun , He Dongming , Sun Mengzhu , Zheng Hanming , Chen Zihao , Yang Jin , Lin Chengqi , Yuan Wiwen , Shi Yun , Sun Lei
Published: February 2025

Despite significant advances in structural and genetic studies, investigations of early embryonic functions, such as brain activity, have long been constrained by technical challenges. Functional ultrasound (fUS) has emerged as a breakthrough modality, enabling real-time monitoring of brain activity with exceptional spatial and temporal resolution and offering unprecedented opportunities for studying functional embryonic development. In this study, we used fUS to monitor whole-embryo activity in mice from embryonic days E8.5 to E18.5, revealing patterns of neural activity throughout embryogenesis. This approach provides new opportunities to explore brain development dynamically as it unfolds. Moreover, we observed embryo responses to external stimuli, including sound, in both mice and cynomolgus macaques, offering insights into early sensory processing and neural maturation. In summary, our study establishes fUS as a powerful tool for studying embryonic brain functional development, with significant implications for scientific research, especially in non-human primate models, and clinical applications.
Ambient air pollution exposure and child birthweight in East African countries: Identifying the sensitive periods
Authors: Baharane Valérien , Shatalov Andrey Borisovich , Larionov Maxim Viktorovich , Korsakov Anton V.
Published: February 2025

This article assessed the impacts of prenatal exposure to PM2.5, CO and O3 on the child’s birth weight in five East African countries trying to identify the susceptible exposure periods. The adjusted linear regression model showed that the increase in 1 µg/m3 in O3 exposure during the first, second and third pregnancy trimesters, respectively resulted in the reduction of the birthweight by 0.00300 kg (Standard Error (SE) of 0.00092 kg), 0.00232 kg (SE: 0.0093), 0.00164 kg (SE: 0.00096) and 0.00674 kg (SE: 0.00143). The logistic regression model revealed that a 1 µg/m3 increase in prenatal exposure to O3 concentration is associated with 4.7% (95% Confidence Interval (CI): 0.4487-1.4434) and 6.3% (95% CI: 0.4552-1.4808) prevalence of the underweight births during the second and third gestation trimesters, respectively. PM2.5 and CO did not demonstrate significant impacts on birthweight, although CO seemed to impair the birthweight outcomes, especially the exposure during the last trimester of pregnancy. The findings of this study have important public health implications that aim to protect health in its early development.
Detecting Weligama Coconut Leaf Wilt Disease in Coconut Using UAV-Based Multispectral Imaging and Object-Based Classification
Authors:   H.D.M.U Wijesinghe1 H.D.M.U Wijesinghe1, Tahrupath KMC , GUTTILA JAYASINGHE
Published: February 2025

Weligama Coconut Leaf Wilt Disease (WCLWD), a major threat to the coconut industry in Sri Lanka, has resulted in large economic losses (reduced productivity and high mortality rate) among infected palm. Early diagnosis is challenging and unreliable due to the low sensitivity of conventional disease detection methods like visual inspections and laboratory testing. In order to overcome these constraints, this study used object-based image analysis (OBIA) in combined with multispectral imaging using an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) to identify and categorize WCLWD in coconut palms. To differentiate between healthy and infected trees, Support Vector Machine (SVM) classification was used to analyze UAV images taken in five spectral bands: red, green, blue, red edge, and near infrared. The four band combination of 'blue', 'green', 'red-edge' and 'near infrared' was found to be the best of those tested, with an accuracy of 79.25% and a moderate agreement, based on the kappa coefficient of 0.493. The accuracy of this was then validated against a field survey ground truth data. Results show that overland biomass detection using OBIA methods with UAV multispectral imaging offers a feasible means to identify WCLWD, but that further classifier work and extra sources of data can improve accuracy. Results show the possibility of advanced remote sensing technologies for improve the detection of coconut WCLWD and support for managing the spread of disease in coconut plantations.
Liquid Metal Universal Grippers for Ultra-Gentle, Highly-Adaptable, Multiscale, and Fast Manipulations
Authors: Tang Shiyang , Chen Xuanhan , Zhang Mingkui , Cao Lu , Wang Long , Chen Yue , Lin Hao , Sun Mingyuan , Tong Shiyuan , Deng Yuguo , Li Weihua , Sun Lining , Zhang Shiwu , Li Xiangpeng
Published: February 2025

The ability to handle and manipulate objects is a fundamental skill across various organisms, from single-celled entities to humans. This capability has inspired the development of versatile robotic grippers for both industrial applications and everyday tasks1-4. Despite that some robotic grippers can surpass humans in certain aspects5-7, object manipulation still faces numerous challenges due to the diversity of target objects' shapes, materials (from soft to hard), sizes (from microscale to macroscale), and operational environments8-10, especially for dynamic targets like living organisms11,12. In the microbial world, the amoeba can flow like liquid to adaptively change its morphology to effectively capture and excrete various prey. Here, inspired by the unique hunting behavior of amoebas, we present a liquid metal universal gripper (LiMU gripper), which exhibits exceptional grasping and active releasing capabilities for targets of various shapes, sizes, and stiffnesses, both in liquid and air environments. Remarkably, the LiMU gripper achieves the world's lowest gripping contact pressure of ~10 Pa, making it ideal for handling delicate items such as mollusks. The LiMU gripper can capture and release moving objects within milliseconds without the need for precise alignment. Importantly, we unveil an active release mechanism that leverages the active control of liquid metal’s high surface tension, enabling the world's fastest release of micro-objects, with accelerations reaching up to 42 G. This allows the LiMU gripper to handle multiscale objects ranging from 10-12 to 102 grams, spanning 14 orders of magnitude. The LiMU gripper offers significant advantages over existing robotic grippers in terms of adaptability, multiscale operation, low contact pressure, and fast manipulation speeds, presenting a new and practical solution to various unresolved manipulation challenges, particularly for living organisms and microscale objects.
PLCD1 Expression for Early Detection and Prognosis in High-Grade Serous Ovarian Cancer
Authors: Kim Jue Young , Shin Ha-Yeon , Kang Eun-Suk , Kim Jae-Hoon
Published: February 2025

Purpose: High-grade serous ovarian cancer (HGSOC) is a prevalent and aggressive subtype with rapid progression and poor prognosis, often diagnosed at an advanced stage despite treatment advances. Current diagnostic markers, such as CA-125, have limited early detection capability and poorly integrate with treatment decisions. This study explored PLCD1 as potential biomarkers for HGSOC’s early detection.
Methods: Immunohistochemistry (IHC) staining was performed to detect PLCD1 expression in tissue microarrays (TMA). The impact of PLCD1 expression on survival outcomes was evaluated via Kaplan-Meier method. PLCD1 expression in HGSOC cells was confirmed through Western blotting. PLCD1 knockdown and overexpression cell lines were established to investigate the functional role of PLCD1 in HGSOC. Colony formation, invasion, and 3D tumor spheroid assay were performed to evaluate cancer cells behavior. An OVCAR3-derived xenograft model was used to determine whether PLCD1 expression influence tumor growth.
Results: IHC staining revealed high cytoplasmic expression of PLCD1 in HGSOC tissues compared to normal or borderline tissues, with low PLCD1 expression correlating with worse overall survival and disease-free survival in 101 patients with HGSOC. In vitro studies demonstrated that PLCD1 knockdown increased OVCA429 cells proliferation, whereas PLCD1 overexpression in OVCAR3 cells reduced colony formation. In the OVCAR3-derived xenograft model, PLCD1 overexpression significantly reduced tumor growth compared with that in the control group.
Conclusion: The TMA revealed an association between PLCD1 expression and patient prognosis. Furthermore, tumor reduction was observed following PLCD1 overexpression in a xenograft model.These findings establish PLCD1 as a promising prognostic biomarker and therapeutic target for HGSOC.
Spring PGD versus Waiting List Control in the Treatment of Prolonged Grief Disorder: Protocol for a Randomised Controlled Trial
Authors: Lewis Catrin , Smalley Michelle , Phillips David M. , Snell Gabriella Dattero , Thomas Bronwen , Yun Janice Wong Sing , Bisson Jonathan I.
Published: February 2025

Background
Prolonged Grief Disorder (PGD) is characterised by longing or persistent preoccupation with someone deceased, accompanied by intense emotional pain, which has persisted for six months or more and significantly impaired functioning. While Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) with a focus on grief is effective, access is limited due to high costs and therapist shortages. Guided digital therapy is a possible solution. Psychological therapy is delivered on an app/website with regular guidance from a health professional. Building on prior success with a guided digital intervention for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), this study will evaluate an intervention for PGD based on similar principles in a UK-based randomised controlled trial (RCT).
Methods
We aim to ascertain proof of concept for Spring PGD, a co-produced guided digital therapy for PGD, in comparison to wait list, to establish whether it is acceptable, and to assess the feasibility of a future definitive RCT. The study will be an exploratory, randomised, parallel-group controlled trial. Forty-two participants will be allocated in a 1:1 ratio to either immediate Spring PGD or a waiting list control group. After a period of 11 weeks on the waiting list, participants in the control group will cross over to receive Spring PGD. The primary outcome measure is the Prolonged Grief 13 Revised (PG-13-R). We will include a nested process evaluation to explore fidelity, adherence, and programme theory. Interviews will be conducted with approximately ten purposively sampled participants and five therapists.
Discussion
If Spring PGD shows promise, it could provide a valuable option for the treatment of PGD. The scalability of guided digital therapy could make it more accessible to a wider population than traditional face-to-face therapy, particularly in areas with limited access to specialised mental health services.
Trial registration
In process of registering with ISRCTN
Research of SLC7A11 to estimate the prognosis and immune infiltration landscape for breast cancer
Authors: Xue Xiangjie , Zhi Yicheng , Wang Lu , Shu Ye , Chen Jiaxin , Li Ting , Hu Yanyan , Jin Peihong , Gu Qinhao , Ye Chenyang , Wang Ji
Published: February 2025

SLC7A11, a key factor protecting cancer cells from oxidative stress, is upregulated and shows prognostic significance in amounts of malignant tumors largely while its role still remains indistinct in breast cancer. We conduct an explicit analysis of the gene SLC7A11 based on The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) for breast cancer patients. Subsequently the co-expressed genes of SLC7A11 are identified. On account of the previous exploration of SLC7A11 thoroughly, we assess the immune infiltrating cell populations and immune checkpoints in breast cancer to unveil the complexity of tumor microenvironment (TME) by Cibersort and Tumor Infiltrating Estimation Resources (TIMER). We continue to convey a further preliminary investigation into the drug resistance of breast cancer. Comparing to the normal tissue, SLC7A11 is significantly expressed in breast cancer, and its differential expression is evidential in patients without distant metastasis (M0). Elevated expression of SLC7A11 is associated with notable changes in the tumor microenvironment (TME) for breast cancer patients, including a decreased presence of CD8 + T cells and activated natural killer (NK) cells. Additionally, there is an increase in immune checkpoint such as CD274, CTLA4, HAVCR2, LAG3, PDCD1LG2 and TIGIT. This modulation in the immune landscape corresponds with improved sensitivity to conventional breast cancer treatments. Our comprehensive analysis confirms that SLC7A11 is a dependable tumor biomarker, offering valuable insights for the development of targeted therapies in breast cancer.
The Role of C-O-H-F-Cl Fluids in the Making of Earth’s Continental Roots
Authors: Gibson Sally , Jackson Charoltte , Crosby James , Day Jason
Published: February 2025

The deep cratonic ‘roots’ of Earth's major continents extend over 160 km and have remained stable for more than 2.5 billion years. This longevity is primarily due to the presence of low-density, refractory peridotites (harzburgites) that formed by extensive mantle melting in the Archean. However, mantle harzburgites from some global cratons (e.g., Kaapvaal, Siberia, Slave, Rae and Tanzania) often show unusual enrichments in orthopyroxene and silica, alongside titanium depletion, which cannot be explained by simple melting processes. The proposed origins of the orthopyroxene-rich harzburgites are highly controversial and include high-pressure melting residues, komatiite interactions, or subduction-related silicic melts and fluids. The uncertainty primarily arises because of the inherent difficulties involved in reconstructing the tectonic settings responsible for the stabilisation of early Earth. To investigate further, we analysed volatile (H₂O, F, Cl) contents in Kaapvaal craton peridotites. Our new results show that harzburgites rich in orthopyroxene, including a diamond-bearing sample, also have higher volatile concentrations. This suggests infiltration by super-critical C-O-H fluids -- rich in silica, fluorine and chlorine fluxed from subducted oceanic lithosphere (carbonated pelites and serpentinites) -- was important in driving olivine-to-orthopyroxene transformation and diamond formation under reduced conditions during the Archean. These findings highlight the role of C-O-H-F-Cl bearing fluids in shaping cratonic lithosphere and offer a new framework for understanding craton evolution, mantle metasomatism and diamond genesis in early Earth.
PSMA PET-detected Mesorectal Nodal Metastasis: Treatment Outcomes and Clinical Implications
Authors: Sayyid Rashid , Al-Daqqaq Zizo , Abedi Shideh , Gleave Alexandra , Bernardino Rui , Tiwari Raj , Cockburn Jessica , Metser Ur , Berlin Alejandro , Fleshner Neil
Published: February 2025

Purpose
To evaluate the clinical significance of PSMA-PET/CT-detected mesorectal lymph node metastases in biochemically recurrent prostate cancer patients.
Methods
This is a retrospective analysis of biochemically recurrent prostate cancer patients (post-radical prostatectomy and/or radiotherapy) with a positive 18F-DCFPyL-PSMA-PET/CT, performed at a tertiary center (December 2018 – February 2021). We evaluated the association between site of most advanced disease (mesorectal-only versus other sites) and development of castration resistance using a multivariable Cox model. We additionally assessed prostate-specific antigen decrease by 50% [PSA50] and hormone-free survival in mesorectal nodal disease patients treated with metastasis-directed therapy
Results
The cohort included 301 patients with PSMA PET-positive disease, of whom 71 had mesorectal nodal disease (44 had mesorectal-only disease). At a median follow-up of 36 months, patients with mesorectal nodal-only disease had equivalent rates of castration resistance development, compared to patients with prostatic fossa-limited disease (HR = 0.99, p = 0.88). Sixteen patients with mesorectal nodal disease underwent metastasis-directed therapy. A PSA50 response was observed in 5/10 patients with mesorectal nodal-only disease and 2/6 for those with additional pelvic nodal disease. All patients without a PSA50 response were started on hormones, with no castrate-resistance development to date. The median hormone-free survival was 28 months.
Conclusions
Biochemically recurrent patients with PSMA PET-detected mesorectal nodal disease have rates of castration-resistance development identical to those with prostatic fossa-limited disease and have promising clinical responses with metastasis-directed therapy. This suggests that such patients may potentially be spared upfront hormones and be considered for either surveillance or metastasis-directed therapy, in select circumstances.
Prognostic Value of FDG-PET/CT Findings in Mucosal Melanoma of the Head and Neck Treated with Carbon Ion Radiotherapy
Authors: Hino Ayako , Mizoguchi Nobutaka , Koge Hiroaki , Yaguchi Ryohei , Yoshida Manatsu , Matsuki Takashi , Furukawa Madoka , Nagase Tomoaki , Mochizuki Harumi , Kakiuchi Akira , Cheng Shihyao , Yamamoto Yayoi , Doiuchi Tsunehiro , Kurihara Hiroaki
Published: February 2025

Objective
To investigate the prognostic value of 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography-computed tomography (FDG-PET/CT) in patients with mucosal melanoma of the head and neck (MMHN) treated with carbon ion radiotherapy (CIRT).
Methods
This single-center retrospective study included patients with MMHN who underwent CIRT and FDG-PET/CT. Correlations of pre-treatment FDG-PET/CT-derived parameters, including the maximum standardized uptake variable (SUVmax), metabolic tumor volume (MTV) with a 50% threshold, total lesion glycolysis (TLG), bone marrow-to-liver ratio (BLR), and spleen-to-liver ratio (SLR), with clinical parameters and prognosis were statistically analyzed.
Results
A total of 32 patients with MMHN were enrolled (median age, 72.5 years). The tumor stages were distributed as follows: T3, 17 patients; T4a, 14 patients; and T4b, one patient. The median total observation period was 22.6 months, the median overall survival (OS) was 21.6 months, and the median progression-free survival (PFS) was 11.5 months. Thirteen patients (40.6%) died, 10 (31.3%) experienced local recurrence, and 19 (59.4%) had distant metastases during the observation period. The 1-year survival rate was 78.1% and the 3-year survival rate was 62.5%. FDG-PET/CT show pronounced positive uptake for all tumors (median SUVmax 13.80, range 2.74–32.99). SLR was high in patients with negative programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) expression in the tumor (p = 0.05). PFS was shorter in patients with a high MTV (p = 0.018). In multivariate analysis, MTV was an independent prognostic factor for PFS (hazard ratio (HR), 2.60; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.065–6.345; p = 0.036). MTV and TLG were not predictive of OS in the univariate analysis.
Conclusion
FDG-PET/CT showed a strong positive uptake for MMHN. FDG-PET/CT-derived imaging parameters may be significant prognostic biomarkers for predicting tumor progression in patients with MMHN.