bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Foreign Language Acquisition and Learning of Late Ottoman Ambassadors and Consuls (1885-1910)
Authors: Bektaş Ayda
Published: January 2025

The Ottoman Foreign Ministry underwent profound adjustments and transformations during the institutionalization process in the late Ottoman Empire. These developments significantly influenced the training of diplomats within the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, particularly from the latter half of the nineteenth century onwards, enhancing the professional competence and training of Ottoman diplomats. In this sense, this article aims to thoroughly examine the impact of institutionalization process within the Ottoman Foreign Ministry on diplomats’ acquisition and learning of foreign languages. The primary source for this study will be the registry files (sicill-i ahval) from the Ottoman Archives. Employing a prosopographic approach, the study will analyze the foreign language proficiency of late Ottoman ambassadors and consuls, along with their methods of language acquisition. By doing so, this article seeks to advance our understanding of the process of professionalization and specialization within Ottoman diplomacy.
UPAYA PENGEMBANGAN MUTU LULUSAN IAIN AMBON MELALUI PROGRAM MENGHAFAL AL-QUR’AN
Authors: Maimunah  , Manilet Saida
Published: January 2025

Abstract: The purpose of this study was to obtain information related to efforts to improve the quality of IAIN Ambon graduates through the tahfidz Qur'an program. The approach used in this study is a phenomenological approach with an interest in uncovering social reality to its authentic area. Data collection techniques used are documentation, observation, and interviews. After collecting the data, the data is reduced according to the research focus, then presented in the form of narratives and ends with drawing conclusions. From the results of the study, it was found that efforts to develop the quality of graduates through the tahfidz program at IAIN Ambon were only prioritized for students who had not memorized the Qur'an at all. Meanwhile, for students who already have memorization provisions, there are no regulations or special forums to accommodate them. And the results of this study found that the program given to students who did not have memorized the Qur'an in terms of evaluation was inconsistent with the regulations that had been set based on the Rector's Decree number 121 of 2017. Abstrak: Tujuan penelitian ini adalah untuk memperoleh informasi terkait upaya peningkatan mutu lulusan IAIN Ambon melalui program tahfidz al-Qur’an. Pendekatan yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah pendekatan fenomenologi dengan kepentingan untuk menguak realitas sosial hingga pada wilayah autentiknya. Teknik pengumpulan data yang digunakan adalah dokumentasi, observasi, dan wawancara. Setelah data terkumpul selanjutnya direduksi sesuai fokus penelitian, setelah itu disajikan dalam bentuk narasi-narasi dan diakhiri dengan penarikan kesimpulan. Penelitian menghasilkan temuan bahwa upaya pengembangan mutu lulusan melalui program tahfidz al-Qur’an di IAIN Ambon hanya diprioritaskan bagi mahasiswa yang belum memiliki hafalan al-Qur’an sama sekali. Sedangkan bagi mahasiswa yang sudah mempunyai bekal hafalan belum ada regulasi maupun wadah khusus yang mengakomodirnya. Dan hasil penelitian ini menemukan bahwa program yang diberikan untuk mahasiswa yang belum mempunyai hafalan al-Qur’an dari sisi evaluasinya tidak konsisten terhadap regulasi yang telah ditetapkan berdasarkan SK Rektor nomor 121 tahun 2017
Mode of delivery in pregnant women with cardiac disease: A retrospective study in Northern Greece
Authors: Papadea Stavroula , Mitta Kyriaki , Tsakiridis Ioannis , Mamopoulos Apostolos , Kalogiannidis Ioannis , Dagklis Themistoklis , Athanasiadis Apostolos
Published: January 2025

Introduction: The management of women with cardiac disease may be a dilemma for the obstetricians, especially regarding the mode of delivery. The aim of this study was to present the clinical practice regarding the mode of delivery among women with cardiac disease in Northern Greece.

Material and methods: This was a retrospective study which included pregnant woman with cardiac disease that was already known or diagnosed during pregnancy. Data were collected (2011-2023) from three university departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology in Thessaloniki, Greece. Demographics, mode of delivery and its indications were all thoroughly reported and analyzed. The indications were categorized as either obstetric or cardiac.

Results: Out of a total sample of 63 pregnant women with heart disease, 36.5% underwent vaginal, while 63.5% cesarean delivery. Among those who delivered via cesarean, 55% had the cardiac disease as the indication, while 45% had an obstetric indication. Excluding women with obstetric indications for cesarean section, the remaining sample of 45 women resulted in a vaginal delivery rate of 51%, with 49% undergoing cesarean section. Moreover, focusing only on pregnant women who had cesarean sections due to cardiac disease, after excluding those with obstetric indications, 18% were in agreement with national and European guidelines, while 82% could have attempted vaginal delivery according to these recommendations.

Conclusion: The findings of the present study suggest that there is a tendency towards cesarean delivery in women with cardiac disease, without being necessitated by the guidelines.
Glibenclamide versus insulin in treatment of gestational diabetes mellitus – a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Selim Ahmed , Elsayed Mohamed , Gamea Ramy , Kalboush Mohammed
Published: January 2025

Background: One of the most serious consequences of pregnancy is Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). It has a negative impact on the mother and the newborn. Maintaining normal blood glucose levels in GDM lowers morbidity for both mother and infant. The first therapy for GDM consists of diet and exercise. If these approaches fail to reach glycemic objectives, medical management should be instituted, which may include insulin or oral hypoglycemic medications.

Aim of the work: To determine the glibenclamide versus insulin efficacy in achieving the adequate glycemic control.

Methods: This randomized control study was conducted on 120 pregnant women with gestational ages ranging from 20 to 37 weeks at Ain Shams University Maternity Hospital between July 2018 and June 2019, using inclusion and exclusion criteria.

Results: Regarding to the glycemic control, there was no significant difference in mean glucose levels at enrollment time before treatment between the two groups as fasting glucose levels were 139.1±12.5 mg/dl in Glibenclamide treated group versus 138.9±11.9 mg/dl in insulin treated group (p=0.650) and 2-hours postprandial glucose levels were 194.8±31.1 in Glibenclamide treated group versus 192.1±28.4 mg/dl in insulin treated group (p=0.625). Regarding postprandial blood glucose after introduction of the drugs, there was no significant differences between the studied groups after one week, at follow-up levels and till delivery time. The uncontrolled cases of Glibenclamide treated group mostly shift to insulin in weeks 4 and 5 after introduction of the drug. Regarding mode of delivery, Cesarean delivery was non-significantly less frequent in Glibenclamide group. 53.3% of patients in Glibenclamide group underwent cesarean delivery versus 61.7% in insulin group (p value=0.356). maternal complications of hypoglycemia were significantly less frequent in Glibenclamide group (p value =0.027) and GIT upset was significantly more frequent in Glibenclamide group (p value =0.032) while Polyhydramnios was non-significantly more frequent in Glibenclamide group (p value=0.491). Regarding neonatal outcome, neonatal birth weight was significantly lower in Glibenclamide group (Glibenclamide 3.3±0.3 kg versus 3.5±0.4 kg in insulin group, p value=0.006). In terms of newborn problems, fetal macrosomia, newborn hypoglycemia, RDS, NICU hospitalization, and congenital anomalies did not significantly differ between the two groups.

Conclusion: Glibenclamide appears to be an effective medicine in the treatment of pregnant women with GDM, maintaining appropriate glycemic control with decreased risk of hypoglycemia and with maternal and newborn morbidities equivalent to insulin. The therapy is significantly less expensive; nonetheless, further appropriately powered and randomized clinical trials, including long-term child follow-up, are needed to establish the relevance of glibenclamide as an alternative to insulin in the management of GDM in women.
Speculative Transitions: Hegel, John Huston’s Moby Dick and the Dissolve
Authors: Wiebe Joshua Harold
Published: January 2025

This article draws out a potential encounter between Hegel and film studies. Following a line of thought instantiated by Theodor Adorno, it constructs a method of reading Hegel through cinematic formal analysis. In particular, the article argues that the speculative proposition should be thought through the structure of the dissolve. The speculative proposition is a sentence whose subject and predicate rest in uneasy relation to one another, and which is not a proposition of simple identity. Making use of a famous example from The Phenomenology of Spirit, the article elaborates the confused position of the speculative proposition and demonstrates the necessity of explanatory tools that approach the matter obliquely. In the process of making this argument, other attempts to put dialectics and montage together (notably, Eisenstein’s) are situated in relation to the instructional potential of the dissolve. Close reading of a particular dissolve taken from Moby Dick (John Huston, 1956) demonstrates the isomorphism between the mechanism of Hegelian dialectic and this particular unit of film form. The article concludes by returning to a particular speculative proposition in light of the insights gleaned from formal analysis.
From Ascetic Ideals to Honest Illusions: A Nietzschean Interpretation of Inception
Authors: Lee Yonghwa , Han Kyoung-Min
Published: January 2025

This article illuminates the open ending of Christopher Nolan's film Inception (2010) in light of Friedrich Nietzsche's philosophy. Drawing particularly on Nietzsche's notions of ascetic ideals and honest illusions, the article contends that Cobb's refusal to look at the spinning top can be seen not necessarily as his renunciation of autonomy but as his new attempt to affirm his existence and create meanings. Mal's tragic death has turned Cobb into an ascetic idealist who paradoxically resorts to self-torture to alleviate his pain and suffering. Only when he sees the destructive power of his sense of guilt about Mal does he come to realize that what he really needs is not exactly the ability to distinguish the dream world from reality per se but the ability to make things seem and feel real – that is, in Nietzsche's words, honest illusions. Faced with the challenge to regain the capability to see and appreciate illusions as illusions without deceiving himself into believing that they are real, Cobb takes “a leap of faith” with Saito into the world to which he wishes to belong and finally embraces the moment of seeing his children's faces, which, fortunately for him, seem real – that is, “good” – enough.
Importancia de la alfabetización en salud bucal de los padres
Authors: Alvarez Vidigal Evelyn
Published: January 2025

En los últimos años, se ha desarrollado un creciente interés en investigar la alfabetización en salud bucal (ASB), pues está muy relacionada a los cuidados de la salud oral e influenciada por los conocimientos, actitudes y prácticas de salud, y; el uso de servicios odontológicos.
Formulasi Dan Uji Stabilitas Sediaan Cleansingbalm Ekstrak Biji Buah Alpukat (Persea Americana Mill)
Authors: Sarah Siti , Budi Setia , Darsono Putri Vidiasari , Noval Noval
Published: January 2025

Latar Belakang: Kulit merupakan organ tubuh yang sangat penting yang melindungi organ lainnya dan memerlukan perawatan yang khusus agar kulit tetap sehat. Masalah pada kulit wajah bisa disebabkan oleh beberapa faktor, salah satunya penggunaan makeup yang meninggalkan residu makeup di padukan dengan polusi dan radikal bebas dapat menyebabkan kulit wajah menjadi kering dan kurang nutrisi Cleansing balm merupakan pembersih wajah terkini yang dikenal sebagai biphasic cosmetic atau produk kosmetik yang memiliki dua fase. Cleansing balm dengan kombinasi Biji buah alpukat (parsea americana mill) bukan hanya sebagai pembersih wajah tetapi juga dapat memberikan manfaat sebagai antioksidan untuk kulitTujuan: Mengetahui Formulasi sediaan Cleansing Balm ekstrak biji buah alpukat (Persea americana Mill) yang optimal dan pengaruh variasi Span 60 dan Tweent 80 pada uji stabilitas Formulasi sediaan Cleansing Balm ekstrak biji buah alpukat (Persea americana Mill).Metode: Penelitian ini menggunakn One Way Anova (anova satu arah) merupakan uji statistik yang bertujuan untuk mengetahui apakah terdapat perbedaan antara lebih dari 2 grup sampel. Satu arah yang dimaksud di sini adalah sumber keragaman yang akan dianalisis hanya berlangsung satu arah, yaitu perlakuan antar grup sampel.Hasil: Berdasarkan hasil evaluasi dan analisis data dari pengujian stabilitas pada Formulasi sediaan Cleansing Balm ekstrak biji buah alpukat (Persea americana Mill) yang optimal dan stabil yaitu Formulasi I karna memenuhi parameter dari uji evaluasi maupun uji stabilitas.Simpulan: Variasi konsentrasi Span 60 dan Tweent 80 memiliki pengaruh terhadap sebelum dan sesudah uji stabilitas. Berdasarkan uji stabilitas formulasi yang paling optimal dan stabil adalah formulasi I.
Mapping out the evolution of infection control in oral health practices post COVID-19 pandemic: A scoping review
Authors: Prakash Urvi , Suman Neelam , Das Aranyak
Published: January 2025

COVID-19 has affected lives in multiple dimensions, so the infection control measures in dental health care practices. This article aims to highlight how infection control has evolved post-pandemic.

A thorough literature search of PUBMED was conducted from December 2020 to May 2024 to determine whether the pandemic has affected oral healthcare infection control.

It was found that dental personnel are at a greater risk due to aerosol production and close contact with the patient while working. However, this can be controlled using additional safety measures like PPE (Personal Protective Equipment), head caps, face shields, and protective eye guards. Most dentists have also complained that the cost of maintaining these measures and PPE is exceedingly high.

The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated changes in infection control practices within dentistry even after the containment of the pandemic, thus emphasizing the importance of strict protocols to protect dental healthcare workers and patients.

Keywords: COVID-19, dentistry, infection control.
Assessment of Knowledge about alterations in Tooth Morphology in Undergraduate Students of Teaching Dental Hospitals
Authors: Begum MD. Saidunnisa , Saritha P. Gnana , Satyanarayana G. S. S. , Venkata Ram Dhara Joshi , Chandrasekhar Poosarla
Published: January 2025

Tooth development begins in the embryo and continues through childhood, involving stages that form enamel, dentin, pulp, and roots. (1) Disruptions can result in anomalies like microdontia, macrodontia, supernumerary teeth, or missing teeth (hypodontia/oligodontia), caused by genetic mutations or environmental factors like
poor nutrition, toxins, or medications(2). These issues may affect function (chewing, speech) and aesthetics (alignment, shape), impacting self-esteem and quality of life. Accurate identification is vital in clinical practice and forensic science, where dental records are crucial for identification in legal cases.[3]

Material and Methods
This cross-sectional, observational study, involves 412 undergraduate students (3rd-year, 4th-year, and interns), selected via simple random sampling, with 1st- and 2ndyear
students, postgraduates, and practitioners excluded. Result: This study revealed significant differences in identifying conditions like Supernumerary roots and
Amelogenesis imperfecta. Third-year students performed better than interns in some cases. Chi-square analysis (p< 0.05) emphasized educational gaps, highlighting
the need for improved teaching strategies to enhance diagnostic accuracy.

Conclusion
This study assessed tooth morphology knowledge dental students, focusing on anomalies like supernumerary roots and taurodontism. Significant variations were found
across academic years, especially for certain anomalies. The study emphasizes the need for targeted educational interventions to improve dental training.

Key Words
Tooth anomalies, Dental education, Diagnostic accuracy,
Morphology alterations.
Cell clone selection—impact of operation modes and medium exchange strategies on clone ranking
Authors: Dorn Marie , Ferng Christine , Klottrup-Rees Kerensa , Lee Kenneth , Micheletti Martina
Published: January 2025

Bioprocessing has been transitioning from batch to continuous processes. As a result, a considerable amount of resource was dedicated to optimising strategies for continuous production. However, the focus has been on developing a suitable and scalable perfusion strategy with little attention given to the selection of optimal cell clones. Cell line development and lead clone selection are critical to bioprocess development. The screening and selection process is typically performed in stages. Microwell plates (MWP) are used to narrow down the number of clone candidates, which will undergo further selective screening in progressively larger small-scale bioreactors (12 mL–3 L) to identify the top clone for GMP production. Perfusion mode is typically applied at bench-scale for optimisation purposes, while process development and cell clone screening studies at mL-scale still commonly use fed-batch methods. The change of operation mode from bolus feeding to perfusion with a regular exchange of medium, leads to questions regarding the reliability and fit of initial clone selection. Is the early-stage clone ranking impacted by the discrepancy in the operation mode, and does this potentially result in the exclusion of cell clones suitable for perfusion processes? To address this question, we evaluated various CHO cell clones expressing two antibody products using MWP methodologies in fed-batch and semi-perfusion mode. We assessed growth, metabolic, and productivity performance, and ranked cell clones using two different strategies. The first strategy evaluated clones based on a single parameter: the cell-specific productivity (qP). The second considered a collection of multiple parameters using the metric of the Manufacturability index (MICL). Both ranking strategies showed an impact of operation mode and perfusion rate on the clone ranking. Notably, depending on the chosen operation mode, different sets of candidate clones might have been selected for further, more extensive screening. Additionally, we evaluated the reproducibility of our results demonstrating consistency in cell clone growth performance and ranking.
The critical role of MLKL in hemorrhagic stroke and the therapeutic potential of its associated protein network
Authors: Wang Yi , Xu Moran , Zuo Xiaoli , Wang Sheng , Yu Yong , Gao Zhaobing , Qie Jingbo , Jiang Ye , Huang Fang , Xia Bingqing
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Mixed Lineage Kinase Domain-Like Protein (MLKL), as the executor of necroptosis and a critical factor in the inflammation, has been shown to be associated with the progression of hemorrhagic stroke. Studies identified MLKL is a promoting factor in this process, suggesting its potential as a therapeutic target to mitigate posthemorrhagic stroke damage. However, the mechanisms by which MLKL functions in the process of intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH)-induced damage remain unclear.

Methods

Here, we explored the correlation between MLKL and pathological damage in ICH patients through histopathological staining and RT-qPCR. Furthermore, we established an intracerebral hemorrhage model by collagenase IV injection in WT and Mlkl-/- mice. Subsequently, we investigated the impact of MLKL knockout on ICH pathological damage through behavioral tests, Western blotting, and RT-qPCR. Finally, we performed a proteomic analysis via LC-MS/MS to explore the potential interacting proteins of MLKL in the progression of ICH.

Results

We found that MLKL is highly expressed in the brain tissue of ICH patients and is positively correlated with the extent of injury. However, we found that Mlkl knockout alone was insufficient to fully reverse neuroinflammation and pathological damage. Although Mlkl knockout has a limited effect on alleviating ICH damage, proteomics results indicate that MLKL can mitigate changes in proteins associated with inflammation, metabolism, and coagulation pathways, suggesting that MLKL may exert its effects through these pathways.

Discussion

In summary, our results suggest that although MLKL is associated with the progression of ICH, single knockout of Mlkl is insufficient to fully reverse the pathological damage of ICH. Proteomic analysis indicates that co-targeting MLKL and its associated protein network may yield better therapeutic outcomes for hemorrhagic stroke.
Molecular mechanisms of renal cell carcinoma metastasis and potential targets for therapy
Authors: Li Xinwei , Xiong Wei , Xiong Zhiyong , Zhang Xiaoping
Published: January 2025

Renal cell carcinoma is a common type of cancer, with approximately 30% of patients potentially developing metastatic disease. Some patients with metastatic renal cell carcinoma are found in advanced stages, so the 5-year survival rate for metastatic renal cell carcinoma is only 14%. Currently, there are several drugs available for patients with metastatic renal cell carcinoma, and their overall survival can be extended to nearly 5 years. However, the sensitivity and efficacy of the treatment are still unsatisfactory. New targets and drugs to improve patient prognosis are urgently needed, but these are closely linked to the molecular mechanisms of renal cell carcinoma metastasis. In this review, we present the definition and common molecular mechanisms of metastatic renal cell carcinoma and provide new insights on their potential link to targeted therapies, which may enlighten scientists to develop future targeted therapeutic agents to improve the prognosis of patients with metastatic renal cell carcinoma.
Identification of serotype O3b and high-risk clone ST37 of Klebsiella pneumoniae revealed by comparative genomic analysis
Authors: Krishnan Sivaraman Gopalan , Sajeev Sudha , Sivam Visnuvinayagam , T. Raja Swaminathan , Ojha Rakshit , Shome Bibek Ranjan , Holmes Mark , Sundaram Thanigaivel , M. D. Ramesh , Vinayagam Saranya , Meesala Suseela , Malik Tabarak , Dara Pavan Kumar
Published: January 2025

Background

Epidemiological risk factors such as the demography of a place, environment, food, livestock, and companion animals are known sources of Klebsiella pneumoniae infection. Whole-genome sequencing (WGS) has become a powerful tool to complement traditional microbiological characterization of foodborne pathogens. Moreover, K. pneumoniae has several species complexes (KpSC) and is very difficult to differentiate using routine microbiological methods. The present study aims to investigate the prevalence of K. pneumoniae in fish available in the retail market using WGS.

Methods

Isolation of K. pneumoniae, identification of K. pneumoniae isolates, and determination of the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) were performed. Whole-genome sequencing of K. pneumoniae genomes and phylogenomic analysis were conducted for visual comparison of the genomes. Furthermore, genomes of non-human origin that were submitted from India to the NCBI database were downloaded and included in the comparative analysis.

Results

The findings showed that many antibiotic-resistant genes (ARGs) are prominent, including acrD, BaeR, cpxA, mdtB, mdtC, CRP, H-NS, KpnE, KpnF, KpnG, KpnH, acrA, acrB, marA, ramB, oqxA, oqxB, LptD, and emrR. Four fish-sourced isolates had different blaSHV resistance gene variants. The presence of ARGs for aminoglycosides [aac(3)-IId], fluoroquinolones (oqxA, oqxB), and fosfomycin (fosA5, fosA6) in these K. pneumoniae isolates from fish sources was found. One of the CIFT-K6 isolates had the uncommon serotype of K. pneumoniae O3b with the high-risk clone “ST37.” The ST515 sequence type was present in two K. pneumoniae isolates (CIFT-K7 and CIFT-K8), but the O3b serotype and ST192 allele type were present in the CIFT-K10 isolate.

Conclusion

To the best of our knowledge, this research study represents the first Indian report of K. pneumoniae linked to fish, specifically the high-risk clone ‘ST37’ and two other STs, 515 and 192. The most common plasmid type detected in all four isolates was IncFIB, and 75% of the isolates were IncFII and IncHI1B. The prevalence of ARGs linked to efflux pump resistance mechanisms is highlighted by the analysis of genome sequence data.
Association between red cell distribution width—albumin ratio and all-cause mortality in intensive care unit patients with heart failure
Authors: Li Ni , Li Junling , Wang Kai
Published: January 2025

Aim

The association between red cell distribution width—albumin ratio (RAR) and the risk of all-cause mortality in intensive care unit (ICU) patients with heart failure remains uncertain. This study aimed to investigate this association.

Methods

Clinical data from MIMIC-Ⅳ (version 2.2) database was utilized for the analysis of ICU patients with heart failure. Patients were categorized into quartiles (Q1–Q4) based on RAR levels. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis and multivariate adjusted Cox regression models were employed to assess the association between RAR levels and mortality outcomes within 1 year. Subgroup analysis was used to evaluate the prognostic impact of RAR across diverse populations. Restricted cubic spline curves and threshold effect analysis were utilized to quantify the dose-response relationship between RAR levels and mortality. The time-concordance index curve was carried out to explore the additional prognostic value of RAR on mortality over the existing scoring systems, Serial Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) and Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation Ⅱ (APACHE Ⅱ).

Results

The analysis encompassed a cohort of 4,506 patients, with Kaplan-Meier curves indicating that individuals with higher RAR levels exhibited an elevated risk of all-cause mortality (p < 0.001). Multivariate adjusted Cox regression and subgroup analysis demonstrated that individuals in Q2 [hazard ratio (HR) 1.15, 95%CI 0.98–1.34], Q3 (HR 1.65, 95%CI 1.39–1.96) and Q4 (HR 2.16, 95%CI 1.74–2.68) had an increased risk of mortality compared to individuals in Q1 (p for trend < 0.001), and this relationship was consistently observed across most subgroups, except for different ages. Subsequent analysis revealed that the inclusion of RAR significantly improved the prognostic value on the basis of SOFA and APACHE Ⅱ, and the concordance index increased from 0.636 to 0.658 for SOFA, from 0.682 to 0.695 for APACHE Ⅱ (p < 0.001 for both).

Conclusion

The study found that high level of RAR was independently associated with an increased risk of 1-year all-cause mortality in ICU patients with heart failure, with a stronger effect in young and middle-aged patients and a threshold effect, which could potentially serve as an early warning indicator for high-risk populations.
Role of physical activity in cardiovascular disease prevention: impact of epigenetic modifications
Authors: Sun Yi , Peng Zuoying , Liang Hua
Published: January 2025

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains the leading cause of death worldwide, imposing a major burden on morbidity, quality of life, and societal costs, making prevention of CVD a top public health priority. Extensive research has pointed out that lack of adequate physical activity in life is one of the key risk factors for heart disease. Indeed, moderate exercise is not only beneficial to the heart in healthy populations, but also exerts a protective effect in pathological states. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying the cardioprotective effects of exercise are still not fully understood. An increasing body of research indicates that variations in the epigenetic system—such as DNA methylation, histone modifications, and production of non-coding RNA—are essential for maintaining heart health and preventing heart disease. Exercise is a potent epigenetic modulator that induces direct and long-lasting genetic changes and activates biological signals associated with cardiovascular health. These changes can be influenced by external stimuli such as physical activity and may even be passed on to offspring, thus providing a mechanism for generating genetic effects through behavioral interventions. Therefore, understanding this relationship can help identify potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets associated with CVD. This study aims to provide an overview of the beneficial effects of exercise on heart health. This information may help guide future research efforts and improve our understanding of epigenetics as a therapeutic, prognostic, and diagnostic biomarker for CVD.
Family factors associated with dental caries among 5-year-old preschool children
Authors: Castilho Giovanna Torqueto , Pessoa Marília Narducci , de Oliveira Caroline Correa , de Melo Letícia Santos Alves , Tagliaferro Elaine Pereira Silva , Pardi Vanessa
Published: January 2025

Background

Although dental caries is largely preventable, it remains highly prevalent among children.

Aim

Evaluate family factors associated with the prevalence of dental caries in 5-year-old children.

Design

This cross-sectional study recruited 5-year-old children from public preschools in Araraquara, São Paulo, Brazil. Data on sociodemographic factors, family routines, and oral health practices were gathered via a self-administered questionnaire completed independently by caregivers. Children received a dental clinical examination at school and caries experience was recorded using the dmft and SiC (Significant Caries index) indexes following the World Health Organization (WHO) criteria.

Results

Data analysis was performed using Chi-square and multiple logistic regression using a significance level of 5%. Of the 578 children in the study, 67.3% were caries-free. The mean dmft index was 1.14 (SD = 2.24), while the SiC index stood at 3.46 (2.69). Factors such as income, caregiver assistance with toothbrushing, caregiver perception of child and parent oral health, and prioritization of dental visits within the family were associated with caries presence.

Conclusions

Overall, dental caries prevalence was low in this population, with family factors demonstrating significant associations with dental caries. The attitudes of caregivers regarding oral health appear to wield considerable influence over the dental health of their children.
Current views on etiology, diagnosis, epidemiology and gene therapy of maturity onset diabetes in the young
Authors: Dzhemileva Lilya U. , Zakharova Elena N. , Goncharenko Anna O. , Vorontsova Maria V. , Rumyantsev S. A. , Mokrysheva Natalia G. , Loguinova Marina Y. , Chekhonin Vladimir P.
Published: January 2025

MODY, or maturity-onset diabetes of the young, is a group of monogenic diseases characterized by autosomal dominant inheritance of a non-insulin-dependent form of diabetes that classically manifests in adolescence or in young adults under 25 years of age. MODY is a rare cause of diabetes, accounting for 1% of all cases, and is often misdiagnosed as type 1 or type 2 diabetes. It is of great importance to accurately diagnose MODY, as this allows for the most appropriate treatment of patients and facilitates early diagnosis for them and their families. This disease has a high degree of phenotypic and genetic polymorphism. The most prevalent forms of the disease are attributed to mutations in three genes: GCK (MODY 2) and (HNF)1A/4A (MODY 3 and MODY 1). The remaining MODY subtypes, which are less prevalent, have been identified by next generation sequencing (NGS) in the last decade. Mutations in the GCK gene result in asymptomatic, stable fasting hyperglycemia, which does not require specific treatment. Mutations in the HNF1A and HNF4A genes result in pancreatic β-cell dysfunction, which in turn causes hyperglycemia. This often leads to diabetic angiopathy. The most commonly prescribed drugs for the treatment of hyperglycemia are sulfonylurea derivatives. Nevertheless, with advancing age, some patients may require insulin therapy due to the development of resistance to sulfonylurea drugs. The strategy of gene therapy for monogenic forms of MODY is still an experimental approach, and it is unlikely to be widely used in the clinic due to the peculiarities of MODY structure and the high genetic polymorphism and clinical variability even within the same form of the disease. Furthermore, there is a lack of clear gene-phenotypic correlations, and there is quite satisfactory curability in the majority of patients. This review presents the main clinical and genetic characteristics and mutation spectrum of common and rarer forms of MODY, with a detailed analysis of the field of application of AVV vectors in the correction of hyperglycemia and insulin resistance.
High-intensity training on CREB activation for improving brain health: a narrative review of possible molecular talks
Authors: Li Ping , Hu Yan , Tong Ligang , Bi Xuecui
Published: January 2025

Although physical exercise has obvious benefits in brain physiology, the molecular biomarkers induced by exercise protocols are inconclusive. Evidence indicates that exercise interventions are effective in shaping brain physiology. However, the potential mediator for improving brain functions is uncertain. CREB is one of the potential targets of exercise that triggers various molecular cross-talk to improve neurogenesis, long-term potentiation, and synaptogenesis. Therefore, CREB may be situated on the causal path between maintaining brain health and exercising. To support this, studies have shown that exercise-mediated CREB phosphorylation improves cognitive functions and memory. In addition, among the protocols of exercise (types, duration, and frequency), the intensity has been reported to be the most effective in triggering CREB-mediated molecular signaling. For example, HIT increases the synthesis of CREB, which may not only induce brain physiology but also induce brain pathology by higher activation of its downstream targets, such as BDNF. Therefore, this review aims to understand the effects of HIT on CREB function and how HIT can mediate the CREB-induced molecular cross-talk for maintaining brain health.
Determining the status of small dense low-density lipoprotein cholesterol level in women undergoing menopausal transition
Authors: He Qingfang , Fang Yujia , Wang Lixin , Liang Mingbin , Chen Xiangyu , Hu Ruying , Zhong Jieming
Published: January 2025

Objective

Research on small dense low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (sdLDL-C) and menopausal status remains scarce. Our aim is to evaluate the relationship between serum sdLDL-C level and different menopausal status in a Chinese women population.

Methods

In 2022, a cross-sectional study was conducted including electronic standardized questionnaire surveys, anthropometric measurements, and biological specimen examinations based on communities. Permanent resident adults aged 30–69 years who lived in two communities in Zhejiang Province and participated in a community health examination from May 26 to September 17 were recruited. According to their menopausal status, the eligible women subjects were divided into premenopause, perimenopause, and postmenopause. Logistic regression model by SAS software was used to explore the association with sdLDL-C level and different menopausal status.

Results

A total of 2,062 women subjects were included with a median age of 57 (51, 63) years. There were 451 (21.9%) premenopause, 87 (4.2%) perimenopause, and 1,524 (73.9%) postmenopause women. The median sdLDL-C level was 0.937 (0.685, 1.209) mmol/L, and the sdLDL-C levels showed a gradually and significantly upward trend in premenopause, perimenopause, and postmenopause women, and this peaked in the postmenopause women. Logistic regression analysis showed that after controlling the confounding factors, compared with premenopause, postmenopause was significantly associated with increased sdLDL-C concentration (OR = 1.514, 95% CI: 1.025–2.238), while no significant association was observed either between serum sdLDL-C and perimenopause (compared with premenopause) or between serum sdLDL-C and postmenopause (compared with perimenopause).

Conclusions

An elevated sdLDL-C level was significantly associated with postmenopause and independent of chronological aging. The study supports that sdLDL-C is a promising risk biomarker for menopausal transition. Future studies should consider a broader population and a more rigorous and thorough study design to validate these findings.
Can the “multi-plan integration” pilot policy facilitate the low-carbon transformation of land use? Evidence from empirical studies in China
Authors: Qian Jingjing , Zhang Xiaomin , Xu Ning
Published: January 2025

The “multi-plan integration” pilot policy (MIPP) is a crucial measure for establishing a territorial spatial planning system and promoting the sustainable use of land. This study treats the implementation of MIPP as a quasi-natural experiment, using panel data from 283 Chinese cities between 2006 and 2019 to examine the impact of MIPP on the low-carbon transformation of land use (LCTLU). The results indicate that MIPP significantly promotes LCTLU, a conclusion supported by a series of robustness analyses. In cities where MIPP was implemented, the level of land low-carbon use increased by an average of 2.87%. MIPP primarily advances LCTLU by reducing land resource misallocation and leveraging economies of scale. Compared with southern regions, large cities, and non-resource-based cities, MIPP is more effective in promoting LCTLU in northern regions, small- to medium-sized cities, and resource-based cities. Moreover, MIPP more effectively promotes LCTLU in non-smart and non-innovative cities than in smart and innovative cities.
Comparison of simulating visibility using XGBoost and IMPROVE method: a case study in East China
Authors: Zhang Xin , Wang Yue , Zhuang Zibo , Liu Yuxi , Yuan Chengduo , Su Lei , Shao Jingyuan , Chan Pak-Wai
Published: January 2025

The prediction accuracy of atmospheric visibility significantly impacts daily life. However, there is a relative scarcity of research on post-processing methods for visibility obtained from the WRF-Chem atmospheric chemistry model results. In order to explore a more accurate method for visibility calculation, we conducted a study on the meteorological conditions in the East China region during a heavy pollution period from October 1 to 23 in the year of 2022. The meteorological data were processed using both the XGBoost (XGB) model and the IMPROVE to calculate visibility. The results indicate that XGB outperforms the IMPROVE in various aspects. The visibility improved from a correlation of 0.56–0.71 with the use of XGB. And in comparison with the IMPROVE equation, XGB demonstrated a statistically significant reduction in RMSE by 1.96 km. Even in regions where the IMPROVE performs poorly, XGB demonstrates superior performance. In regions where the correlation simulated by the IMPROVE equation is less than 0.2 (Anqing and Nanyang), XGB still performs well, achieving correlations of 0.69 (Anqing) and 0.68 (Nanyang). Throughout the entire study period, the average visibility results obtained by XGB deviate by only 0.07 km from the observed values. These findings underscore the importance of incorporating the XGBoost model into WRF-Chem visibility simulations, as it significantly improves the accuracy of visibility predictions.
Identification of novel clinical subtypes in patients with microscopic polyangiitis using cluster analysis: multicenter REVEAL cohort study
Authors: Okazaki Ayana , Matsuda Shogo , Kotani Takuya , Fukui Keisuke , Gon Takaho , Watanabe Ryu , Manabe Atsushi , Shoji Mikihito , Kadoba Keiichiro , Hiwa Ryosuke , Yamamoto Wataru , Hashimoto Motomu , Takeuchi Tohru
Published: January 2025

Introduction

This study aimed to identify new clinical phenotypes of microscopic polyangiitis (MPA) using a principal components analysis (PCA)-based cluster analysis.

Methods

A total of 189 patients with MPA between May 2005 and December 2021 were enrolled from a multicenter cohort in Japan (REVEAL cohort). Categorical PCA and cluster analysis were performed based on clinical, laboratory, and radiological findings. Clinical characteristics and outcomes, including all-cause mortality, respiratory-related mortality, end-stage renal disease (ESRD), and relapse were compared between each cluster.

Results

Eleven clinical variables were transformed into four components using categorical PCA and synthetic variables were created. Additionally, a cluster analysis was performed using these variables to classify patients with MPA into subgroups. Four distinct clinical subgroups were identified: Cluster 1 included the renal involvements and diffuse alveolar hemorrhage (DAH)-dominant group (N=33). Cluster 2 comprised the elderly onset systemic inflammation group (N=75). Cluster 3 included patients in the younger-onset limited-organ disease group (N=45). Cluster 4 was comprised of an ILD-predominant group without kidney involvement (N=36). 61 patients died during follow-up, with 32 dying of respiratory-related causes. Additionally, 19 patients developed ESRD and 70 relapsed. Cluster 1 showed the worst ESRD-free survival and relapse rates, whereas Cluster 2 showed the worst overall survival and respiratory-related death-free survival rates among the four groups.

Conclusions

Our study identified four unique subgroups with different MPA outcomes. Individualized treatments for each subgroup may be required to improve the prognosis of MPA.
Mapping microplastic pathways and accumulation zones in the Gulf of Finland, Baltic Sea – insights from modeling
Authors: Mishra Arun , Siht Enriko , Väli Germo , Liblik Taavi , Buhhalko Natalja , Lips Urmas
Published: January 2025

A hydrodynamic model coupled with a particle tracking model was used to identify the pathways and accumulation areas of microplastics (MP) in the Gulf of Finland (GoF) over a three-year period (2018-2020). Two key sources, wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) and rivers, were considered, focusing on polypropylene (PP)/polyethylene (PE) and polyethylene terephthalate (PET) particles sized 20-500 μm. Rivers contribute 76% of total MP entering the gulf, while WWTPs account for the remaining 24%. Most of the MP accumulates inside the gulf and does not drift to the Baltic Proper. The eastern part of the gulf exhibits the highest surface concentrations of particles influenced by the Neva River. In the water column, MP concentrations were notably high in shallow coastal areas, decreasing gradually offshore. Potential MP accumulation zones were identified primarily between longitudes 28°E and 30°E, particularly near the major rivers Narva and Kymi and in the easternmost gulf related to the Neva River discharge. The MP concentrations in the surface layer and water column were higher in winter while settling was more intense in summer. Short-term variability in the surface layer was caused by (sub)mesoscale advection and divergence/convergence, while in the near-bottom layer, strong bottom currents and consequent resuspension elevated the concentrations.
Identifying unregulated fisheries seasonality through commercial landings and local fishers’ knowledge
Authors: Ben-Hasan Abdulrahman , Al Mukaimi Mohammad E.
Published: January 2025

Seasonality in fisheries is known when opening and closing dates are established, but it is much less defined in places lacking seasonal regulations. Highlighting fisheries seasonality is critical because, for one, it can influence seafood supply and prices. Here, we examine fisheries seasonality by analyzing extensive datasets of monthly commercial landings and prices spanning over twenty years for 22 major finfish stocks in Kuwait, where seasonal closures are uncommon. Additionally, we develop a questionnaire to obtain information from the recreational fishery—the only fishing sector composed of local fishers—to investigate whether peak commercial landing months overlap with local fishers’ knowledge. We found a distinct seasonality in finfish commercial landings: at the two ends of the spectrum, the strongly winter-spring finfish landings (60% or more of landing proportions), which plummet sharply over warmer months, and the strongly summer-fall finfish landings. Landings influenced seasonal mean prices, with higher landings generally meant lower prices and vice versa. Further, we found that months identified by local fishers as being the “best fishing seasons” are consistent with months of peak landings for most stocks, though fishing seasons for a few stocks diverged widely from seasonality in commercial landings. Broadly, our analysis underscores high seasonality unrelated to seasonal regulations and supports combining commercial landings and local fishers’ knowledge to understand fishery and finfish seasonality, particularly in data-limited situations.
Multilevel subdural and epidural hematoma after percutaneous kyphoplasty (PKP): a case report and literature review
Authors: Deng Fuyuan , Liu Hailong
Published: January 2025

Background

Serious complications such as intraspinal hematoma after percutaneous kyphoplasty (PKP) are rare, with an incidence of about 1%, which has been reported in relevant literature. However, there are few reports on the simultaneous occurrence of multiple segmental subdural/epidural hematomas (SDH/SEH) after surgery.

Case presentation

This case reports a 90-year-old female with lower limb neurological dysfunction after PKP. Emergency thoracolumbar magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed hematoma compressing the spinal cord. After conservative treatment, the sensory and motor function of the right lower limb returned to normal, and the bowel and urine function returned to normal, but the muscle strength of the left lower limb did not fully recover.

Conclusion

Blood pressure should be well controlled during the perioperative period for elderly patients with hypertension. This will avoid severe fluctuations in blood pressure caused by pain, anesthesia, and other reasons, reduce the probability of intraspinal vascular rupture, and prevent severe neurological dysfunction caused by acute intraspinal hemorrhage.