bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Corneal Stromal Lenticule Rotation for High Astigmatism Correction
Authors: Stodulka Pavel , Randárová Eva , Slovák Martin , Šramka Martin
Published: January 2025

Purpose

To evaluate the clinical outcome of laser-assisted surgical correction of high hyperopic or mixed astigmatism using small incision intrastromal lenticule rotation (SMILERO) alone or combined with photorefractive keratectomy (PRK).

Methods

This retrospective case series enrolled 25 eyes with high astigmatism that underwent SMILERO surgery. Uncorrected distance visual acuity (UDVA), corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA), uncorrected near visual acuity (UNVA), manifest refraction, central corneal thickness, and corneal higher order aberrations were analyzed before surgery and after 3, 6, and 12 months of follow-up. The postoperative residual refractive errors were fine-tuned using PRK.

Results

The median absolute preoperative cylinder of 4.50 diopters (D) decreased to 1.25 D at 3 months postoperatively. The lenticule rotation improved UDVA (0.80 vs 0.45 logMAR) due to a noticeable myopic shift. Regarding UNVA, 14 of 24 eyes were capable of reading Jaeger number 1 chart postoperatively in comparison to one eye preoperatively. The lenticule rotation led to successful correction of both astigmatic and spherical components in 13 of 25 eyes. The residual refractive errors in 12 of 25 eyes were fine-tuned postoperatively by PRK. The SMILERO and PRK combination led to a satisfactory refractive outcome with median absolute cylinder of 0.75 D, median spherical equivalent of -0.25 D, and median UDVA of 20/40 Snellen equivalent at 12 months postoperatively.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates that SMILERO is capable of correcting both corneal and refractive astigmatism with mid-term corneal stability. The residual refractive errors were further minimized with subsequent PRK fine-tuning.

[
J Refract Surg
. 2025;41(1):e5–e13.]
Visual and Safety Outcomes of Refractive Correction Procedures Following Lens Removal for Residual Refractive Error: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Alorainy Jehad , Alanzan Abdullah , Alghamdi Nawaf , Alghuligah Abdulaziz , Alnutaifi Raed , Alsubhi Abdulrahman , Otaif Wael , Almuammar Abdulrahman
Published: January 2025

Purpose

To evaluate residual refractive errors after intraocular lens (IOL) extraction and the safety and effectiveness of refractive correction procedures.

Methods

The eligibility criteria for this systematic review were patients who had undergone cataract or clear lens extraction and had experienced residual refractive error. All study designs were considered for inclusion and non-English publications, non-peer reviewed articles, books, and systematic reviews were excluded. A comprehensive electronic search strategy was employed on PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Cochrane, and Embase databases from January 1, 1950, to August 1, 2023.

Results

This review examined 55 articles with 2,223 eyes. Piggyback IOL and IOL exchange are highly effective in correcting both myopia and hyperopia, showing significant improvements in spherical and cylindrical errors. Among corneal-based procedures, laser in situ keratomileusis offers a strong balance, with substantial reductions in both spherical and cylindrical errors, along with a favorable safety profile. Small incision lenticule extraction improves uncorrected distance visual acuity (UDVA), particularly in hyperopic patients, whereas photorefractive keratectomy is effective for both UDVA and astigmatism correction, although it has less impact on corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA). Conductive keratoplasty is effective but has greater variability and a higher incidence of complications.

Conclusions

Significant improvements in spherical equivalent were consistently observed after treatment across the different procedures. Both UDVA and CDVA demonstrated notable enhancements, suggesting an overall efficacy in improving visual function. Although complications were reported, they were generally low in incidence and varied across procedure types.

[
J Refract Surg
. 2025;41(1):e73–e87.]
Visual Outcomes and IOL Stability After Panoptix Trifocal Intraocular Lens Implantation in Eyes With High Myopia
Authors: Zhao Yinying , Yang Fuman , Jiang Yiling , Tong Wentao , Fang Jiayan , Zhao Yun-e
Published: January 2025

Purpose

To observe and explore the correlation between visual outcomes and intraocular lens (IOL) stability after tri-focal IOL implantation in eyes with high myopia.

Methods

Patients with highly myopic cataract (axial length > 26 mm) were enrolled in this prospective study. Thirty-one eyes (31 patients) received implantation of a trifocal IOL (AcrySof IQ PanOptix TFNT00). Uncorrected distance, intermediate, and near visual acuity (UDVA 5 m, UIVA 60 cm, UNVA 40 cm) and refractive status were evaluated at 1 day, 1 week, 4 weeks, and 3 months postoperatively. The defocus curve was plotted 3 months postoperatively. The IOL tilt, IOL decentration, postoperative aqueous depth, and adhesion of the capsule with IOL were evaluated at 2 hours, 1 week, 4 weeks, and 3 months postoperatively. The correlation between postoperative visual outcomes and dynamic changes in IOL positioning was analyzed.

Results

In total, 29 eyes of 29 patients were available for analysis. UDVA, UIVA, and UNVA were 0.03 ± 0.01, 0.03 ± 0.01, and 0.02 ± 0.01 logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution (logMAR) at 3 months postoperatively (mean spherical equivalent [SE]: −0.10 ± 0.04 D). From 1 to 7 days postoperatively, UIVA (
P
= .031) and UNVA (
P
= .02) improved, SE shifted to myopic (
P
= .001), and the IOL moved forward (
P
< .001). A bimodal defocus curve showed that the visual acuity achieved 0.2 logMAR from +0.50 to −2.50 D, and the peaks were at plano and −2.50 D, reaching 0.04 ± 0.01 and 0.08 ± 0.01 logMAR. The capsular bend index reached 3.35 ± 0.06 at 3 months postoperatively. There were no significant changes in tilt and decentration during the postoperative follow-up period.

Conclusions

This trifocal IOL provides excellent visual acuity at far, intermediate, and near distance in high myopia eyes. The postoperative position of the IOL was relatively stable in eyes with highly myopic cataracts.

[
J Refract Surg
. 2025;41(1):e56–e64.]
CRITICAL FACTORS AFFECTING THE PROMOTION OF BUILDING INTEGRATED PHOTOVOLTAIC TECHNOLOGY
Authors: Li Long , Wan Meiqi , Wang Shuqi , Luan Haiying
Published: January 2025

The challenge of global warming has forced the construction industry with large carbon emissions to develop low-carbon and environmentally friendly architectural forms. Photovoltaic buildings make full use of renewable energy and have huge potential for emission reduction. However, the characteristics of BIPV technology, such as a relatively high initial investment and technical difficulties, hinder its widespread application. Previous studies have explored the potential benefits of BIPV technology; however, there is a lack of systematic investigation into the interactive relationships between the various factors related to this technology. To address this gap, critical influencing factors were identified based on a systematic literature review and semi-structured interviews, and questionnaires were distributed to experts to determine the interrelationships among the factors. Combining the data collected, a hybrid model that integrates decision-making trial and evaluation laboratory and interpretive structural modeling (DEMATEL-ISM), was developed to quantitatively assess interactions and determine the hierarchical structures and pathways of factors. The results show that the lowest-level root causes of BIPV technology promotion are the PV module power generation efficiency, PV power generation safety, and power quality. As a green technology, the advantages of the performance of BIPV power generation are a key to the successful promotion of this technology; thus, financial and human resources should be increased to optimize these technical challenges. The findings of this study provide valuable information for policymakers and practitioners to prioritize these issues and take effective measures to facilitate the promotion and development of BIPV technology.
SUSTAINABILITY OF TUNNEL SPOIL REUSE AND RECYCLING: A SYSTEMATIC LITERATURE REVIEW
Authors: Yulong Li , Ziwen Yao , Ya-Qing Sun , Chengbo Ni , Guobin Wu
Published: January 2025

The construction of mega infrastructure projects involving underground work generates massive amounts of tunnel spoil. For sustainable development, it is essential that the generated spoil is not regarded as waste, but as a recyclable material with potential benefits to social, economic, and environmental sustainability. However, a comprehensive understanding of the challenges associated with spoil reuse is crucial to improve the current spoil-reuse scenario. This paper presents in-depth research into the current state, challenges, and future directions of tunnel spoil reuse and recycling, framed within the perspective of sustainability. We conducted a systematic literature review, incorporating descriptive and thematic analyses of 74 research articles published between 1999–2023, and focusing on four research themes: the importance of tunnel spoil reuse and recycling, underlying prerequisites, effective approaches for reuse and recycling, and governance mechanisms. This literature review serves as a resource for researchers exploring further avenues in spoil reuse and offers practical guidance for its effective management.
Biomedical Waste Management in Hospitals
Authors: Yingngam Bancha , Khumsikiew Jeerisuda , Netthong Rojjares , Intamat Somsak
Published: January 2025

Biomedical waste (BMW) is a range of potentially harmful waste products that can threaten human health and the environment. Properly managing these wastes is essential for preventing the spread of diseases caused by infectious agents from these wastes and reducing environmental pollution. Nevertheless, despite the available regulations and guidelines, many hospitals around the world have poor waste management due to infrastructure, financial, and educational challenges. The purpose of this chapter is to describe the types and classes of BMW, current means of disposal and treatment, and the regulatory board of BMW management and new attitudes, which are promising opportunities for waste management. The latter includes technological innovations, such as automation and new waste disposal and treatment methods that are environmentally friendly. However, despite extensive experience in BMW management, the problem is still relevant. The future of BMW in hospitals is to integrate sustainable methods and new technologies and improve regulatory authority enforcement.
Emergence of Antibiotic-Resistant Isolates Due to Hospital Waste
Authors: Mhamunkar Namrata Nilkanth , Kadam Janvi Hemant , Patil Siddhant
Published: January 2025

Discovery of antibiotics has brought substantial control over the spread of infections. However, its irrational use and inadequate disposal have caused an escalation in emergence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria (ARB). WHO has classified ARB as a global health crisis since its increase has accounted for an increase mortality rate. Although there are numerous sectors contributing to the spread of these resistant microorganisms, hospital waste has been identified as the major contributor. In hospitals, patients discharge unmetabolized drugs into the environment via sewage disposal, encouraging the development of ARB. Medical waste that gets dumped into the landfills serves as conducive environment for sharing of resistance genes. Improper sterilization and disposal techniques further contribute to this challenge. In view of the aforementioned complications, this chapter sheds light on how hospital waste contributes to antibiotic-resistance. By doing so, the chapter further advocates for the need to implement proactive measures to address the issue.
AI-Based Machine Learning Models for Predictive Analysis in Biomedical Waste Management
Authors: William P. , Khatkale P B. , Roy Dharmendra Kumar , Yogeesh N. , Kulkarni Shrikaant , Gandi Prasanna Lakshmi
Published: January 2025

The proper management of biological waste is very necessary in order to safeguard both the environment and the health of the general population. Traditional methods of waste management are often unable to adequately manage the quantity and dynamic nature of biological waste that is generated by healthcare establishments. The purpose of this project is to investigate the use of artificial intelligence-based machine learning models for predictive analysis in the field of biomedical waste management. Utilizing historical data and complex algorithms, these models are able to predict the amount of trash that is produced, optimize disposal operations, and ensure that regulatory compliance is fulfilled. As a result, these models increase the efficiency and sustainability of waste management procedures at healthcare facilities.
Machine Learning Applications in Optimizing Healthcare Waste Management Processes
Authors: William P. , Banu M. Ameena , Balaji V. S. , Mamedova Gulnara , Subramani Babu , Agalya M. , Alagarsamy Manjunathan
Published: January 2025

Healthcare waste management is a critical aspect of healthcare systems, involving the safe disposal and handling of hazardous materials. Traditional methods often struggle with the complexities of waste categorization and disposal efficiency. This paper explores the transformative potential of machine learning (ML) in optimizing healthcare waste management. ML algorithms enable predictive analytics for waste generation, route optimization for collection, enhanced waste segregation, real-time monitoring, and cost management. Through comprehensive research methodologies and performance evaluations, ML proves effective in improving operational efficiency, reducing costs, and ensuring compliance with environmental standards.
Exploring Student Interests in Shodhganga
Authors: Menon Vishnu Achutha , Kumar Sandeep
Published: January 2025

Shodhganga, developed by the Information and Library Network (INFLIBNET) Centre, serves as a repository for electronic theses and dissertations (ETDs) from Indian universities and research institutions. Using data collected from 482 research scholars in Tamil Nadu between December 2023 and March 2024, this research explores how student interests influence the appearance and structure of web pages, content delivery, and hyperlinks and navigation within the platform. The study employs the Student Interest Scale to measure student interests and derives dependent variables—Appearance and Structure of Web Pages, Content Delivery, and Hyperlinks and Navigation—from measures created by Ingrid Stewart, Eunsook Hong, and Neal Strudler (2010). Descriptive statistics and correlation coefficients reveal significant positive correlations between student interests and the other variables, indicating a strong relationship. Further linear regression models indicate a statistically significant effect of student interests on each aspect, suggesting their influence on digital repository platforms.
Authorship and Collaborative Pattern in the Field of Artificial Intelligence in Academic Libraries
Authors: Sargunapathi R. , Jeyshankar R.
Published: January 2025

The present study analyzes the research output of artificial intelligence in academic libraries scientometric study. The data were downloaded from the Web of Science database from 2004-2023 at the end of June 2024 and retrieved 2770 documents. It was found that the research output of the number of publications increased from 61 in 2004 to 203 in 2023, with the highest growth of publications in 2023 (7.33%). They secured the utmost citations in 2015 (9.08%). It was found that while the utmost publications single authors were 1.42 in 2005, and the Collaborative Index remained relatively stable, with values ranging between 0.82 and 1.12, the Collaborative Coefficient and Modified Collaborative Coefficient increased from 0.05 in 2004 to 0.08 in 2023. It was observed that the authorship pattern utmost contribution is 38.77% single authors and, more than five authors are relatively low initially, with several years of zero publications. In addition, Chiu DKW leads with 24 papers and has garnered the highest number of citations at 531.
Scientific Productivity of the Nuclear Medicine Literature
Authors: Rathika N. , Berlin K. G. Anila
Published: January 2025

The present study is to analyze the scholar publications of nuclear medicine research for 30 years from 1991 to 2020. These study objectives to discover the list of most important journal publications, the growth rate, and the research productivity and contribution of authors and institutions. Every country, continent and a number of similar aspects nationally and internationally in nuclear medicine. The extracted data was in text format, analyzed according to the objectives of the study the use of Histcite, Microsoft-Excel suite and VOS viewer software, and presented as data tables and graphs. Scientific measurement techniques are involved in evaluating the publication of nuclear medicine, the growth rate of research publications, author productivity, collaborations, citations, high-quality journal lists, and the geographical distribution of publications nationally and internationally in nuclear medicine.
Usage of Electronic Resources by the Faculty Members of Autonomous Colleges Affiliated to Mahatma Ghandi University, Kerala
Authors: Mohanan Neethu , Thankamani K.
Published: January 2025

E-resources are vital in every walk of life, academic or otherwise. E-resources can be found in a variety of forms, such as electronic databases, journals, online books, OPACs, etc. Due to their excellence in every way, including accessibility and aesthetic appeal, these resources are gradually displacing the information gathering practices of academics. The purpose of the survey is to examine the awareness and use of electronic resources by faculty members of autonomous colleges affiliated to Mahatma Gandhi University, Kerala, India. 350 faculty members were given a structure questionnaire; 326 of those filled and returned it. Only questionnaires that have been properly completed and returned were used in this study. 26.69% of the 326 respondents in total visit the library twice every week. Most respondents are familiar with electronic books, journals, theses and dissertations, and conference proceedings. It should be highlighted that preparing for assignments and lectures accounts 33.4% of all e-resource usage.
Assessing Hospital Infrastructure Resilience in Pandemics
Authors: Li Xiaoyan , Lin Ange
Published: January 2025

In the era of globalization, infectious diseases pose a significant threat to global health and societal stability. They strain healthcare systems, necessitating robust preventive strategies, particularly in creating resilient hospital environments. Our study identifies and analyzes hospital environmental safety risk factors during pandemics, emphasizing the need for context-specific risk mitigation. By integrating literature review with linguistic assessment of risk factors, we reveal complex hospital safety dimensions and underappreciated epidemiological risks. Using triangular fuzzy number theory and the DEMATEL method, we develop an evaluation model that quantifies hospital environment risks and their interdependencies, enhancing informed decision-making for epidemic prevention and resource allocation, contributing to healthcare infrastructure sustainability and societal well-being.
Semantic Web-Based AI System for Neuroimmune-Gastrointestinal Medical Image Processing
Authors: Guan Xueyu , Guo Lizhong , Qin Xuewen , Santos Javier , González Ana María , Qin Yi
Published: January 2025

At present, the medical field requires the development of clinical diagnostic and therapeutic robots. The research team successfully transformed the biophysical structures of mitochondria and lipid particles from 2D to 3D. Based on cloud point registration algorithm and SVM, LSSVM, and Bayesian algorithms, the predicted cloud point was added to the cloud point volume to increase the cloud point data capacity and combined with psychological analysis of 3D cloud point structure hierarchical clustering. The K-SVD algorithm is used to deconvolve pathological data to reduce color interference on visual transformers, fit 3D data of midbrain pathways, and finally fuse 2D data converted from pathological data, mandala data, and immune factor data with brain computer interface data for classification prediction, improving the robustness of artificial intelligence diagnostic algorithms. This information fusion robot can accurately diagnose the comprehensive condition of patients and contribute to medical assisted diagnosis.
Refractory pityriasis rubra pilaris treated with abrocitinib
Authors: Rob Filip
Published: January 2025

Pityriasis rubra pilaris is a rare idiopathic papulosquamous disorder that significantly impacts the quality of life and is often refractory to conventional therapies. This study presents a case of successful treatment with an abrocitinib JAK1 inhibitor after several conventional and biologic therapies failed.
Policy analysis: Key milestones in MDR-TB management over the past decade in South Africa
Authors: Davids Lee-Ann C. , Crowley Talitha
Published: January 2025

Background: Significant strides have been made globally and in South Africa (SA) in the policy and biomedical management of multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB). However, MDR-TB remains a significant public health threat.Aim: This policy content analysis aims to explore the key milestones in MDR-TB management in SA and globally over the last decade, 2013–2023, to identify gaps and opportunities for improvement.Setting: This review focussed on global and South African national MDR-TB policies since SA is on all three World Health Organization (WHO) watch lists for TB, TB/HIV and MDR-TB, despite its significant contributions to policy.Method: A policy review and content analysis were conducted of all publicly available SA and WHO drug-resistant TB policies developed between 2013 and 2023.Results: Key changes identified were in the areas of new drug development and regimens, care delivery settings, task shifting and, terminology used in the field of drug-resistant TB. Changes in the biomedical sphere predominated in both SA and WHO policies.Conclusion: Important biomedical interventions have offered renewed hope for the SA MDR-TB programme. This review highlights that policy translation and implementation in non-biomedical interventions have been slow, sometimes lagging up to 10 years behind an intervention being recommended. This article recommends equal weight be placed on non-biomedical interventions and that these policy translations occur at a more rapid speed to positively impact the dire public health consequences of MDR-TB.Contribution: Insights offered through this policy review may contribute to policy development, translation and implementation towards improving MDR-TB outcomes in SA.
An assessment strategy for the employability of HRM graduates in South Africa
Authors: Beretu Tendency , Charles Warren P.
Published: January 2025

Orientation: The unemployment problem in South Africa has been explored from both supply and demand perspectives, but there is a gap in understanding industry expectations on graduate competence and market readiness.Research purpose: This study investigates a labour market-driven assessment strategy to evaluate the employability of Human Resource Management (HRM) graduates in South Africa.Motivation for the study: The study aims to ensure that graduate assessments align with industry needs, enhancing employability through industry-based methods.Research approach/design and method: A case study design was used, selecting a university offering HRM qualifications and 196 employed HRM graduates. Supervisors of these graduates provided feedback on the alignment between university assessments and graduate performance. The study used a pragmatic approach, incorporating both qualitative and quantitative data collection.Main findings: The data from 196 supervisors revealed eight key themes: assessments were seen as inappropriate, lacking industry focus, too general and needing industry collaboration. Respondents also suggested industry responsibility in assessments, linking students to industry, emphasising solutions to industry challenges, and calling for industry-based standards. Most respondents viewed current assessments as inaccurate indicators of graduate capabilities.Practical/managerial implications: The study recommends adopting an industry-centric assessment approach to improve graduate assessments. This alignment could enhance graduate fitness for employment and the value they add to the industry.Contribution/value-add: This study helps to align university assessments with industry expectations, increasing HRM graduates’ employability and ensuring assessments reflect the capabilities needed in the labour market.
Factors Influencing Abutment Screw Loosening in Single Unit Implant Screw-retained Crowns: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Suliman Oubada M R , Abuhassna Mohammed Abdulhai , Albarrak Amal Saud Barrak , Asiri Mohammed Abdullah N , Alhertani Safaa MohammedRezk , Alghamdi Hala Hamed
Published: January 2025

This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to assess the factors influencing abutment screw loosening in single-unit implant screw-retained crowns versus cement-retained crowns. The primary outcomes evaluated included marginal bone loss (MBL), bleeding on probing (BOP) and technical complications concerning types of retention. We conducted a systematic search across seven databases: PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, Scopus, Web of Science, ProQuest, and ScienceDirect, using Boolean operators and MeSH keywords for evidence-based retrieval of studies. The studies included relevant randomised controlled trials, retrospective cohorts and prospective studies. We used a random-effects model to calculate the pooled mean differences (MD) as well as odds ratios (OR) with their corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CI). Sensitivity analyses were conducted to determine the robustness of the findings. Qualitative analysis indicated that MBL was marginally higher in screw-retained crowns than it was in cement-retained crowns, with pooled MD 0.04 mm (95% CI [0.00, 0.07]). The BOP analysis found that the overall OR was 1.53 (95% CI [0.59, 3.94]), revealing a marginally increased risk of bleeding in cement-retained implants, but it was also not significantly different. The heterogeneity of MBL was very low, I² = 0%, P = 0.83. Heterogeneity of BOP was also low I² = 0%, P = 0.84. Therefore, consistency amongst the included studies was established. It was demonstrated that screw-retained and cement-retained crowns do not differ clinically from each other in MBL, BOP and incidence of screw loosening. Both retention types produced comparable biological and technical outcomes, so the selection of one versus the other should be based on patient-specific factors, preferences for the site of implantation and individual clinician preference and should not be determined by concerns about screw stability or peri-implant health.
Leptomeningeal metastasis in triple-negative breast cancer – A diagnostic challenge
Authors: Goyal Jyotsna , Sarawagi Radha , Kumar Aman , Sharma Tanya , Raju Aghosh , Kumar Vinay
Published: January 2025

Leptomeningeal metastases (LM) or neoplastic meningitis is a relatively uncommon complication occurring in advanced solid or haematological malignancies. Diagnosis of LM is based on clinical evaluation, neuroimaging, and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis. We present a case of 47-year-old female with stage III triple negative breast cancer, who presented to Department of Surgical Oncology AIIMS Bhopal for breast cancer treatment and developed neurologic symptoms on her subsequent visits. Initial workup revealed subarachnoid haemorrhage on MRI brain and a negative CSF cytology. Patient was managed conservatively for neurologic features and started with systemic neoadjuvant chemotherapy. Subsequently patient’s neurological symptoms progressed, and a repeat MRI showed sulcal and leptomeningeal enhancement, suggesting possibility of meningeal carcinomatosis. Repeat CSF analysis showed presence of atypical cells. Patient was managed with intrathecal methotrexate and showed improvement in her neurologic symptoms and responded well to chemotherapy. The diagnosis of LM requires high index of clinical suspicion. This report highlights the diagnostic challenges, reflecting the inferential role of neuroimaging and CSF cytology in a precise clinical backdrop, for the diagnosis of LM.
An innovative approach for predicting the metastasis of central lymph nodes in papillary thyroid microcarcinoma: A nomogram based on clinical and ultrasonographic characteristics
Authors: Zhang Ning , Wang Zhenqian , Sun Bo , Zhang Long , Hu Jianping , Jiang Xiao , Xu Xinyun , Chen Han
Published: January 2025

Purpose:

The current study aimed to examine risk factors in patients with papillary thyroid microcarcinoma (PTMC) by building a nomogram model to evaluate the probability of central lymph node metastasis (CLNM).

Materials and Method:

A retrospective study was conducted on 775 patients with PTMC who had thyroid surgery, with a focus on examining the clinical characteristics and sonographic features of these individuals, among which 543 individuals were assigned to the training cohort and 232 individuals to the validation one. Both univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were employed to ascertain the risk factors linked to the occurrence of CLNM in individuals with PTMC.

Results:

Four variables encompassing clinical and ultrasound characteristics were identified to be potential risk factors. These variables include age (OR = 0.814, P = 0.001), gender (OR = 1.974, P = 0.005), tumor size (OR = 3.278, P = 0.001), and microcalcification (OR = 2.542, P = 0.001). All of the aforementioned components were employed to develop a nomogram for the prediction of the occurrence of CLNM in PTMC patients. These findings showed within the range of 0.11 to 0.47, the nomogram demonstrated a consistent ability to accurately forecast the occurrence of CLNM.

Conclusions:

Risk factors derived from clinical and sonographic features were determined and used to establish a nomogram, and the result demonstrated good performance of the CLNM-predicting nomogram, which may aid doctors in making better clinical decisions regarding the management of PTMC patients.
Diagnostic value of tumor markers CEA, CYFRA21-1, SCC, and proGRP in detecting lung cancer
Authors: Xu Xiaoping , Zha Qiongfang , Kang Yu , Zou Jing , Jiang Handong , Qin Hui
Published: January 2025

Background:

A single tumor marker may not comprehensively detect the lung cancer. We aimed to evaluate the diagnostic and predictive value of the tumor markers panels in lung cancer.

Materials and Methods:

A total of 203 patients with newly diagnosed lung cancer admitted to Renji Hospital, Shanghai, China, from June 2014 to May 2017, were consecutively enrolled. Seventy-three patients with benign lung diseases and 54 healthy volunteers were included. Serum carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA), cytokeratin fragment 19 (CYFRA21-1), squamous cell carcinoma antigen (SCC Ag), and progastrin-releasing peptide (proGRP) were measured using chemiluminescent microparticle immunoassay. The differences in tumor markers between the groups were determined using one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) or Kruskal–Wallis test. Sensitivity, specificity, and positive predictive value (PPV) were measured using Bayes’s theorem. Cutoff levels were calculated by receiver operating curves.

Results:

All four tumor markers increased significantly in the cancer group and positively correlated with disease stage. CYFRA 21-1 had the highest sensitivity (70.0%), whereas the specificity of CEA, SCC Ag, and proGRP were 97.6%, 93.7%, and 98.4%, respectively. If any marker was elevated, the sensitivity increased to 77.8%. Based on the prevalence rate of lung cancer in patients with solitary nodule (32%, according to our data), PPV of CEA, proGRP, or any two biomarkers elevation in diagnosing lung cancer were 84.8%, 88.0%, and 83.6%, respectively.

Conclusion:

A panel of tumor markers provided a higher sensitivity in detecting lung cancer. Elevation of CEA, proGRP, or the combination of tumor markers in patients with high prevalence rates of lung cancer may help distinguish malignant lung disease.
Is assessment of platelet-lymphocyte ratio and neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio a predictor for lymph node metastasis in oral squamous cell carcinoma?
Authors: Uniyal Akanksha , Urs Aadithya B , Augustine Jeyaseelan , Khurana Neeta , Passey J C , Meher Ravi
Published: January 2025

Background:

Systemic inflammation promotes tumorigenesis and metastasis in cancer. It has a role in the initiation and progression of oral cancer to advanced stages. Platelet-lymphocyte ratio (PLR) and neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) are hematological markers used as a measure of systemic inflammation which can be used as prognostic markers. Aim of the study is to assess the prognostic value of preoperative PLR and NLR in predicting lymph node metastasis in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC).

Methods:

Preoperative PLR and NLR were analyzed in 112 oral cancer cases and 100 healthy controls. Optimal cutoff values for PLR and NLR were calculated using Receiver Operating Characteristic Curve (ROC). The comparison of mean PLR and NLR was performed using the one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) test and intergroup comparisons using post hoc Bonferroni test.

Results:

Mean preoperative PLR was significantly higher in OSCC in comparison to the control group (147.48 + 61.38 versus 101.92 + 36.99, P < 0.001). Mean preoperative NLR was higher in OSCC in comparison to the control group but the difference was not significant (3.07 + 1.70 versus 2.71 + 7.13, P = 0.606). PLR was higher in cases involving multiple anatomical sites (P = 0.005) and in T2 and T4a in comparison to controls with highly significant differences (P < 0.001).

Conclusion:

Systemic inflammation has a dynamic role in disease progression in oral cancer and may have an impact on the clinical outcome. Higher preoperative PLR is a significant prognostic indicator in OSCC, which may be used to predict advanced stages of disease and lymph node metastasis.
Outcome and toxicity of concomitant chemoradiotherapy versus concomitant chemoradiotherapy followed by intraluminal brachytherapy in middle-third of esophageal carcinoma – A prospective randomized trial
Authors: Thakur Shabnum , Negi Anup , Gupta Manish , Seam Rajeev Kumar , Kumar Vineet , Fotedar Vikas
Published: January 2025

Background:

Neo-adjuvant chemoradiotherapy (CCRT) followed by surgery is the current standard treatment of locally advanced middle third esophageal carcinoma (EsC). For medically inoperable patients, definitive CCRT is the treatment of choice. The brachytherapy boost after external beam radiation therapy (EBRT) is the most elegant way of delivering a high dose to the primary site. Our study involved a comparison of CCRT with chemoradiation followed by intraluminal brachytherapy (ILBT) in the evaluation of disease response, quality of life, toxicity and survival.

Methods:

Total 36 patients, 18 patients in the control group (concomitant chemoradiation) received a total dose of 60 Gy (Gray)/30# (fractions)/2 Gy/#/5#/week along with weekly cisplatin and 18 patients in the study group (CCRT followed by ILBT) received a total dose of 50 Gy/25#/2 Gy/# & 5#/week along with weekly cisplatin followed by ILBT to a total dose of 10 Gy in 2# of 5 Gy each, 1 week apart without chemotherapy after a gap of 2 weeks.

Results:

At a median follow-up of 6 and 13 months for the control and study group, the overall response rate was 94.4% (17/18) and 100% (18/18) in control and study group respectively. Acute and late toxicities along with the quality of life were evaluated. Disease-free survival (DFS) was similar in both groups. The median survival for the control group was 8 months whereas for study group it was 18 months, this difference was statistically significant (p = 0.0010).

Conclusion:

High dose rate (HDR) ILBT in combination with EBRT is an excellent way to treat dysphagia and to prolong overall survival with lesser acute and late toxicities in carcinoma esophagus.
Prevalence and psychosocial factors affecting preoperative anxiety, depression, and stress in cancer patients: A prospective cross-sectional study
Authors: Mishra Seema , Sarma Riniki , Bhan Swati , Vig Saurabh , Kumar Sunil , Satapathy Sujata , Sood Mamta , Deo S. V. S. , Bhatnagar Sushma
Published: January 2025

Background:

Psychological factors have a key role in affecting the clinical outcome of a disease. Studies have found an alteration in the immune system and endocrine function in patients with psychological stress. Cancer patients often display these symptoms. This study aims to find out the prevalence and factors affecting the presence of preoperative depression, anxiety, and stress in cancer patients by using the Depression Anxiety Stress Scale-42 (DASS 42).

Methods:

Three hundred and sixty patients were included in the study who were posted for cancer surgery. They were required to answer a questionnaire where details were collected about the sociodemographic and economic background, type of cancer and treatment received, details about the presence of pain, and if the patient is on any analgesics. Data were analyzed using Stata version 16, and multivariate analysis was done using logistic regression.

Results:

The prevalence of depression, anxiety, and stress was found to be 16.11%, 32.5%, and 12.78%, respectively. Logistic regression analysis revealed that marital status and type of surgery proposed predicted depression; anxiety was significantly contributed by the type of surgery proposed and analgesic the patient is taking; whereas marital status, type of surgery proposed, and analgesic the patient is taking predicted stress.

Conclusion:

Married patients are more likely to suffer from depression and stress. Patients undergoing palliative surgery will be prone to all kinds of negative emotions including depression, anxiety, and stress. The type of analgesics, which the patent is taking as prescribed based on the World Health Organization (WHO) ladder for cancer pain also significantly influences anxiety and stress.
Evaluation of interleukin-6 level in patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia and its correlation with the stage of the disease
Authors: Al-Sarai Nuha Abd Ali , Nafea Noor Noaman , Abdulsalam Abbas Hashim
Published: January 2025

BACKGROUND:

Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) is not an uncommon hematological malignancy which affects elderly individuals primarily. It is more common in developed world. Interleukin-6 (IL-6) is a soluble mediator with a pleiotropic effect on inflammation, immune response, and hematopoiesis. Due to its major role in initiation as well as resolving inflammation, deregulation of IL-6 is a mainstay of chronic inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. In addition, IL-6 has been shown to be implicated in the pathogenesis of many human malignancies.

OBJECTIVES:

The aim of the study was to measure the plasma level of IL-6 in newly diagnosed pretreated CLL patients and its association with disease stage and peripheral blood indices.

PATIENTS, MATERIALS AND METHODS:

A case–control study included 60 patients who are newly diagnosed untreated CLL patients classified into three stages according to the Binet classification system as a patient group and 20 healthy individuals as a control group. The samples were collected from the patients during their attendance at the laboratories of the Hematology Center of the Medical City in Baghdad. For the determination of plasma level of IL-6 in both patient and control groups, an ELISA-based method was used.

RESULTS:

IL-6 plasma level was higher significantly in the patient’s group than in the control group (P < 0.001), with the highest IL-6 level found in Stage C and the least IL-6 level found in Stage A (P = 0.043). The white blood cell count shows a high correlation to IL-6 level when compared to other peripheral blood elements (hemoglobin and platelet count) but is still not statistically significant. Regarding age and gender, they did not have a statistical significance (r = 0.081, P > 0.05) on the mean plasma level of IL-6 within both the patient and control group.

CONCLUSIONS:

In this study, IL-6 plasma levels are significantly correlated with the stage of the disease as its level is the highest in CLL patients with advanced disease. IL-6 is an independent prognostic factor in the prediction of the activity and the stage of the disease in these patients.
Histological Indicators of Aging at the Cellular Level: Cellular Senescence, Fibrosis, and Regenerative Capacity
Authors: Elkordy Eman Ali
Published: January 2025

Aging is a complex and multifaceted process characterized by a gradual deterioration of cells and tissue functions. Histological markers such as cellular senescence, fibrosis, and reduced regenerative capacity are key features of aging. Senescent cells accumulation in different tissues is a feature of this senescence, which is linked to chronic inflammation and organ dysfunction. Fibrosis, marked by increasing deposition of extracellular matrix, occurs in aging organs like the liver, heart, and lungs, impairing their function. Aging also declines the regeneration of the tissue, primarily as a result of the depletion of tissue-resident stem cells. This study highlights the histological changes associated with aging, offering insights into how aging influences cellular mechanisms and predisposes individuals to age-related diseases that are related to age, like cardiovascular lesions, neurodegeneration, and metabolic disorders. Understanding these indicators could guide the development of therapeutic approaches to reduce age-related tissue degeneration.
Additive kinematic formulas for convex functions
Authors: Hug Daniel , Mussnig Fabian , Ulivelli Jacopo
Published: January 2025

We prove a functional version of the additive kinematic formula as an application of the Hadwiger theorem on convex functions together with a Kubota-type formula for mixed Monge–Ampère measures. As an application, we give a new explanation for the equivalence of the representations of functional intrinsic volumes as singular Hessian valuations and as integrals with respect to mixed Monge–Ampère measures. In addition, we obtain a new integral geometric formula for mixed area measures of convex bodies, where integration on

$\operatorname {SO}(n-1)\times \operatorname {O}(1)$

is considered.
On several dynamical properties of shifts acting on directed trees
Authors: Abakumov Evgeny , Abbar Arafat
Published: January 2025

This article explores the notions of

$\mathcal {F}$

-transitivity and topological

$\mathcal {F}$

-recurrence for backward shift operators on weighted

$\ell ^p$

-spaces and

$c_0$

-spaces on directed trees, where

$\mathcal {F}$

represents a Furstenberg family of subsets of

$\mathbb {N}_0$

. In particular, we establish the equivalence between recurrence and hypercyclicity of these operators on unrooted directed trees. For rooted directed trees, a backward shift operator is hypercyclic if and only if it possesses an orbit of a bounded subset that is weakly dense.
New aspects of Bargmann transform using Touchard polynomials and hypergeometric functions
Authors: Alpay Daniel , De Martino Antonino , Diki Kamal
Published: January 2025

In this paper, we study the ranges of the Schwartz space

$\mathcal {S}$

and its dual

$\mathcal {S}'$

(space of tempered distributions) under the Bargmann transform. The characterization of these two ranges leads to interesting reproducing kernel Hilbert spaces whose reproducing kernels can be expressed, respectively, in terms of the Touchard polynomials and the hypergeometric functions. We investigate the main properties of some associated operators and introduce two generalized Bargmann transforms in this framework. This can be considered as a continuation of an interesting research path that Neretin started earlier in his book on Gaussian integral operators.
A variational principle of scaled entropy for amenable group actions
Authors: Liu Yu , Li Zhiming
Published: January 2025

We study scaled topological entropy, scaled measure entropy, and scaled local entropy in the context of amenable group actions. In particular, a variational principle is established.
Genetic variation in different field strains of fall armyworm Spodoptera frugiperda (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) larvae resistance treated with two insecticides
Authors: Khidr A.A. , Hend A.A. Al-Ashry , Sayed M. , Faten A.A. Badr , Dalia A. Abdel-Salam
Published: January 2025

Discriminating concentrations of the tested products, namely the diakoks (Emamectin benzoate) as well as the tracer (Spinosad), were used to determine the resistance in different strains collected from three governorates, namely Qalubia, Assiut, and Sharkia. It was revealed that diakoks insecticide was more toxic against the 4th instar larvae of the tested pest than the tracer insecticide. It was clear that the discriminating concentration (LC99) of diakoks and tracer insecticides against the baseline laboratory strain caused 82.35 and 44.12; 73.53 and 29.41 and 88.24 and 58.32% mortality in the 4th instar larvae collected from Qalubia, Assiut, and Sharkia Governorates, respectively, whereas the corresponding resistance percentages were 16.82 and 55.43; 25.73 and 70.29 and 10.87 and 40.09%; respectively. Genetic diversity in the field colony of 4th larval instars of Spodoptera frugiperda (J.E. Smith) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) collected from three different Egyptian Governorates compared with the baseline laboratory strain was investigated. Primer OP-A3 generated 16 fragments in the three fields colony as well as the baseline laboratory strain of S. frugiperda 4th instar larvae. Primer OP-A3 detected 16 fragments in the threefield colony as well as the baseline laboratory strain. Primer OP-A5 generated 18 fragments in the three fields colony and laboratory strain. Primer OP-B3 generated 13 fragments in the three fields colony and laboratory strain of S. frugiperda 4th larval instars. Primer OP-C15 generated 16 fragments in the three fields colony as well as the laboratory strain of the tested insect. Primer OP-D1 generated the highest number of fragments, which were 29 fragments in the three fields colony as well as the baseline laboratory insect.
Physiological concepts and bioassays of Beauveria bassiana and Paecilomyces lilacinus attacking the corn leaf aphid Rhopalosiphum maidis (Hemiptera:Aphididae) in Assiut, Egypt
Authors: Gamal H.A. Hammam , Asmaa H. Mahmoud
Published: January 2025

Enzymatic activity and pathogenicity of Beauveria bassiana and Paecilomyces lilacinus against the corn leaf aphid Rhopalosiphum maidis (Fitch) (Hemiptera: Aphididae) were studied in the laboratory. The results showed that two isolates of B. bassiana and one isolate of P. lilacinus were found effective at all concentrations on R. maidis, but the uppermost concentration (2×107 conidia/ml) of P. lilacinus provided maximum mortality (100%). While B. bassiana isolate No. (1) and B. bassiana isolate No. (2) provide mortality rates of 85% and 95% at their highest concentrations of 1.8×107 and 1.30×107 , respectively. All isolates revealed enzymatic activity such as lipase, protease, and chitinase, but P. lilacinus showed the highest activity. B. bassiana (2) isolate was more aggressive than other isolates, as indicated by the low value of LC50 compared with other isolates.