bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Coping strategies and correlations with depressive symptoms among female nurses working in Japanese general hospitals
Authors: Kubo Hideyuki , Kaneko Yoshiyuki , Saitoh Kaori , Furihata Ryuji , Jike Maki , Otsuka Yuichiro , Uchiyama Makoto , Suzuki Masahiro
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Preventing depression among nurses is a critical issue from the perspective of occupational welfare, but associations between depressive symptoms in nurses and stress-coping strategies remain unclear.

Methods

In the present study, an epidemiological study was conducted based on a cross-sectional questionnaire survey. Data obtained from 2,534 female nurses working at three general hospitals in Tokyo, Japan, were analyzed. Participants completed a questionnaire comprising 42 items, including depressive symptoms and stress-coping strategies, in addition to sociodemographic information and perceived mental stress.

Results

Our study showed that the emotional distraction strategy “Engaging in hobbies or relaxing” was negatively associated with both depressed mood and loss of interest. In addition, the problem-solving strategy “Making an effort to think optimistically” was negatively associated with loss of interest. Conversely, use of avoidant strategies was positively associated with both depressive symptoms.

Discussion

Our findings may indicate the importance of focusing on types of coping styles when developing strategies to prevent depressive symptoms in nurses.
An explorative qualitative study of barriers to the use of health and mental health services among migrant female sex workers in Germany and needs for action
Authors: Lotysh Anastasiia , Tezcan-Güntekin Hürrem , Kalinowski Olivia , Kaya Gizem , Kroehn-Liedtke Franziska , Mihaylova Hristiana , Schouler-Ocak Meryam , Rössler Wulf
Published: January 2025

Background

Migrant female sex workers (MFSWs) can be exposed to various health risks due to their occupation, including mental and physical health, substance use, and experience of violence. However, they face substantial barriers to accessing healthcare services. The inadequate access to medical care for migrant female sex workers poses a challenge to the German healthcare system.

Research aims

This qualitative study aimed to identify and analyze the barriers to the use of health and mental health services by migrant female sex workers in Berlin and what should be done to improve the access to healthcare and to make it easier to use health and mental health services for migrant female sex workers. The data collected can be used to derive overarching recommendations and strategies for action.

Methods

Semi-structured, guided interviews were conducted with 10 migrant female sex workers in Berlin, Germany. The interviews were audio recorded, and the content of the transcribed interviews was analyzed. A structuring qualitative content analysis, according to Kuckartz, with deductive-inductive category formation was conducted in MAXQDA 2022.

Results

Barriers were analyzed at three levels: patient, provider, and system. The patient level was related to the patient characteristics: social structure variables, health beliefs and attitudes, personal enabling resources, community enabling resources, perceived illness, and personal health practices. The provider level was related to the provider characteristics: skills and attitudes. The system level was related to the system characteristics: the organization of the healthcare system on local and national levels. Moreover, needs for actions were identified, which can be used for deriving recommendations for the improvement of healthcare situation of migrant sex workers living in Berlin.

Conclusion/discussion

Health services and future intervention studies should consider barriers identified in this study to improve the health services utilization and health of sex workers as part of the effort to protect the right of humans to health.
Practice Guidelines for the Value Evaluation of Clinical Pharmacy Services (version 2)
Authors: Wu Liuyun , Lv Ziyan , Chen Min , Zheng Xingyue , Li Lian , Du Shan , Han Lizhu , Yin Qinan , Wang Yin , Liu Xinxia , Li Wenyuan , Huang Xuefei , Wang Hulin , Yi Xiaoqing , Cui Xiaojiao , Chen Zhujun , Wang Yueyuan , Hou Yingying , Zheng Xi , Lei Yang , Gou Mengqiu , Wu Yue , Kang Fengjiao , Cai Fengqun , Liang Shuhong , Yang Yong , Li Jinqi , Bian Yuan
Published: January 2025

Objective

To optimize the construction of pharmaceutical services in medical institutions, advance the development of clinical pharmacy as a discipline, enhance the level of clinical pharmacy services, systematically implement and evaluate clinical pharmacy practices, and improve patient therapeutic outcomes, we have developed the Practice Guidelines for the Value Evaluation of Clinical Pharmacy Services (Version 2).

Methods

This guideline was designed following the World Health Organization (WHO) Guideline Development Manual. The Delphi method was employed to identify clinical questions. A comprehensive systematic search was conducted to collect existing evidence on relevant issues, and the systematic reviews, evidence grading, and evidence summaries were subsequently compiled. The guideline employs the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) evidence level system from Australia and the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) system introduced by WHO in 2004 to classify the quality of evidence. Consensus on the recommendations and evidence levels was achieved through the Delphi method, resulting in the formation of the Practice Guidelines for the Value Evaluation of Clinical Pharmacy Services (Version 2).

Results

Through a questionnaire survey of over 100 experts and the Delphi method voting, 23 preliminary indicators for evaluating the value of clinical pharmacy services were identified. The content of these included indicators was searched according to the PICO principle, followed by systematic reviews, meta-analyses, network meta-analyses, and related original research. Each search strategy was reviewed and approved by the guidelines steering committee. Ultimately, three dimensions for evaluating the value of clinical pharmacy were identified, encompassing 15 indicators, resulting in 20 recommendations.

Conclusion

This guideline presents a set of metrics to assess the quality and effectiveness of clinical pharmacy services, which is crucial for enhancing and elevating clinical pharmacy services in healthcare institutions.

Systematic review registration

http://www.guidelines-registry.org/guide/28502a74-7038-439c-bdee-d355747e2a9d, identifier: PREPARE-2022CN756.
Analysis of an intergenerational service-learning experience based on physical exercise in a community setting: a mixed-method study
Authors: Alonso-Cortés Fradejas Beatriz , Lafuente-Ureta Raquel , Calvo Sandra , Fernández-Gorgojo Mario , Poveda-López Jose Lesmes , Jiménez-Sánchez Carolina
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Physical activity offers numerous benefits that improve psychological well-being, reduce dependency, and foster intergenerational relationships. Universities play a key role in promoting the health of students by proposing actions that contribute to a sustainable future, fostering a mature society and reducing ageism. This service-learning project aimed to assess the impact of an intergenerational cane-walking program on older adults and physiotherapy students in a community setting. The project focused on promoting health and fostering intergenerational relationships.

Methods

A concurrent, nested mixed-methods design was used for the intervention, involving intergenerational group walks during the 2022–2023 academic year. The program was designed and supervised by faculty members and three fourth-year fellows. Data collection was based on adherence to the intervention, the Behavioral Regulation in Exercise Questionnaire (BREQ-3), interviews with older adults and feedback questionnaires completed by them and participating students.

Results

Satisfactory adherence was evidenced among older adults, with 65.79% of participants who completed the project and 72% who adhered to the intervention, although there were no statistically significant differences in terms of motivation to exercise taking that adherence into account. The project’s ability to foster intergenerational relationships was rated by the seniors at 9.50 ± 0.6, and 100% answered affirmatively about its capacity of contribute to improving their health and well-being. Student feedback also reflected high scores for fostering intergenerational relationships, with scores of 10 (fellows), 8.7 ± 1.2 (third-year students), and 8.27 ± 1.2 (second-year students). The project’s contribution to skills development was rated positively by 100% of the fellows, 88.6% of the second-year students, and 74.1% of the third-year students. In the nested study, three key themes related to exercise emerged by older adults: (1) perceptions of exercise, (2) barriers to exercise and (3) motivations for exercise. Regarding satisfaction with the program, three main themes emerged: (1) intergenerational relationships, (2) strengths of the program and (3) suggestions for improvement.

Conclusion

The program appears to improve the well-being of older adults and provide valuable experiential learning for students. Thus, service-learning projects could effectively promote sustainable health practices, highlighting the important role of universities in community health initiatives.
Craving for exercise due to the disruption of daily routine by an earthquake
Authors: İlbak İsmail , Yasuntimur Ahmet , Stojanovic Stefan , Düz Serkan , Rydzik Łukasz , Cepicka Ladislav
Published: January 2025

Objectives

The research aimed to examine exercise cravings that arise from the disruption of daily routine resulting from the earthquake and the consequent mandatory absence from exercising at fitness centers.

Study design

This study utilized the phenomenological design through qualitative research methods.

Methods

The research sample comprises six individuals aged between 22 and 29 years. They were selected using the criterion sampling method. Data was collected through semi-structured interviews, and thematic analysis was used to analyze the data.

Results

Two different types of cravings were identified. The first type is related to exercise addiction, while the second type is related to anxiety-induced cravings.

Conclusions

Exercise craving manifests in two ways. The first type originates from exercise addiction, emerging when an individual with exercise addiction experiences a lack of exercise. With a more clinical dimension, the second type arises from the inability to engage in training for uncontrollable reasons.
Unbalanced rural development in underdeveloped areas: rurality and human settlements
Authors: Wang Xueyi , Geng Manguo , Tang Xianglong
Published: January 2025

Introduction

The continuous migration of rural populations to urban areas poses a significant threat to food production and sustainable development in underdeveloped regions. Consequently, planning farmers’ livelihoods and optimizing their living environments are crucial for addressing rural challenges. Rurality represents the fundamental attributes of the countryside, serving as an accurate measure of the stages and characteristics of rural development and providing valuable support for policy formulation.

Methods

In this study, 87 counties (districts) in Gansu Province were selected as samples to construct and evaluate a rurality evaluation index system. The Geographical Detector Model and Pearson’s correlation analysis were applied to examine the relationship between the rurality index and key factors of the human settlement environment and identify pathways for rural development.

Results

The findings demonstrated that the rurality index effectively reflects the spatiotemporal patterns of rural development, demonstrating a steady increase from west to east across Gansu Province. Various human settlement factors influence the spatial distribution of the rurality index, with humanities factors emerging as the primary drivers. Based on their dominant factors, the counties in Gansu Province were categorized into three groups for policy formulation: external economy-driven rural areas, endogenous resource-driven rural areas, and location-constrained rural areas.

Discussion

However, it was also recognized that the rurality index alone does not comprehensively capture the current state of rural agricultural development. To propose effective, regional, and integrated rural development policies for underdeveloped areas, it is essential to combine agricultural development policies with an analysis of the existing rural living environment.
Effects of feeding different proportions of steam-flaked corn-based starter on growth performance, immunity and serum metabolism of pre-weaned Simmental calves
Authors: Yao Kangyu , Gao Yu , Yang Liang , Yang Min , Wu Xiuyu , Zhang Xinyu , Lv Zhengke , Shao Wei , Wei Yong , Ren Wanping
Published: January 2025

Introduction

This study examines the effects of steam-flaked corn starter on pre-weaned Simmental calves' growth, immunity, and metabolism. Despite benefits shown in adult cattle, research on calves is limited. The goal is to optimize calf feeding for better growth, health, and nutrient use.

Methods

Thirty-two Simmental bull calves (avg. wt: 50.50 ± 4.50 kg, avg. age: 21 ± 7 days) were divided into four groups of eight. The 127-day study included a 7-day pretest and a 120-day trial. Calves had unlimited access to starter feed, alfalfa hay, and water. Groups received starter diets with 0% (CK, control), 33% (SFC33, low), 66% (SFC66, medium), or 100% (SFC100, high) steam-flaked corn replacing regular corn. Other conditions were consistent.

Results

Feeding 33% steam-flaked corn to pre-weaned Simmental calves led to highest daily weight gain (0.80 kg/d), significantly boosting serum globulin, cholesterol, urea nitrogen, glucose, immunoglobulins, GH, INS, and IGF-1 (P < 0.05). Compared to control, 31 metabolites differed in SFC33 group, mostly up-regulated, including glycerophospholipids, linoleic/arachidonic acid metabolism, cholesterol pathway molecules, L-glutamine in multiple pathways, and mannose in fructose/mannose metabolism.

Discussion

In summary, feeding 33% steam-flaked corn-based starter can improve the growth performance, enhance immunity, and improve sugars, lipids, and proteins metabolism of pre-weaned Simmental calves.
Matching Phosphorus Fertilizer Types with Soil Type in Rice Cultivation Optimizes Yield, Soil Phosphorus Availability, and Phosphorus Fertilizer Use Efficiency
Authors: Peng Shiyu , Zhang Xinyao , Sun Le , Chai Rushan , Zhang Chaochun , Chen Xiaohui , Luo Laichao , Siddique Kadambot H. M.
Published: January 2025

Inefficient phosphorus (P) fertilizer application often accumulates soil P, wasting valuable phosphate resources and contributing to environmental pollution. Given the suboptimal P fertilizer use efficiency (PUE), understanding soil P dynamics and selecting appropriate fertilizers is crucial. Fluvo-aquic soil and yellow-cinnamon soils were used in a rice pot trial to compare five P fertilizer types: single superphosphate (SSP), diammonium phosphate (DAP), calcium magnesium phosphate (CMP), triple superphosphate (TSP), and ammonium polyphosphate (APP), alongside a no P, control (CK). In fluvo-aquic soil, TSP and APP significantly increased rhizosphere P availability at anthesis, while SSP increased yield and shoot P accumulation at maturity. In yellow-cinnamon soil, DAP had the highest rhizosphere P availability at anthesis, while APP significantly increased shoot P accumulation at anthesis and shoot P accumulation and grain yield at maturity. Moreover, PUE was highest with SSP and CMP in fluvo-aquic soil and APP and TSP in yellow-cinnamon soil. Throughout the experiment, increased soil alkaline phosphatase activity promoted NaOH-Po conversion to NaHCO3-Pi, increasing rice shoot P uptake, yield, and PUE in both soils. Based on the above findings, it is recommended to apply SSP and TSP to fluvo-aquic soil and APP and TSP to yellow-cinnamon soil to achieve higher yield and PUE, which can be further confirmed by subsequent field-scale studies.
Super Typhoons Simulation: A Comparison of WRF and Empirical Parameterized Models for High Wind Speeds
Authors: Fu Haihua , Wang Yan , Xie Yanshuang , Luo Chenghan , Shang Shaoping , He Zhigang , Wei Guomei
Published: January 2025

As extreme forms of tropical cyclones (TCs), typhoons pose significant threats to both human society and the natural environment. To better understand and predict their behavior, scientists have relied on numerical simulations. Current typhoon modeling primarily falls into two categories: (1) complex simulations based on fluid dynamics and thermodynamics, and (2) empirical parameterized models. Most comparative studies on these models have focused on wind speed below 50 m/s, with fewer studies addressing high wind speed (above 50 m/s). In this study, we design and compare four different simulation approaches to model two super typhoons: Typhoon Surigae (2102) and Typhoon Nepartak (1601). These approaches include: (1) The Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) model simulation driven by NCEP Final Operational Global Analysis data (FNL), (2) WRF simulation driven by the fifth generation of the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) reanalysis data (ERA5), (3) the empirical parameterized Holland model, and (4) the empirical parameterized Jelesnianski model. The simulated wind fields were compared with the measured wind data from The Soil Moisture Active Passive (SMAP) platform, and the resulting wind fields were then used as inputs for the Simulating WAves Nearshore (SWAN) model to simulate typhoon-induced waves. Our findings are as follows: (1) for high wind speeds, the performance of the empirical models surpasses that of the WRF simulations; (2) using more accurate driving wind data improves the WRF model’s performance in simulating typhoon wind speeds, and WRF simulations excel in representing wind fields in the outer regions of the typhoon; (3) careful adjustment of the maximum wind speed radius parameter is essential for improving the accuracy of the empirical models.
Learning Rate Tuner with Relative Adaptation (LRT-RA): Road to Sustainable Computing
Authors: Biswas Saptarshi , Dey Sumagna , Nath Subhrapratim
Published: January 2025

Optimizing learning rates (LRs) in deep learning (DL) has long been challenging. Previous solutions, such as learning rate scheduling (LRS) and adaptive learning rate (ALR) algorithms like RMSProp and Adam, added complexity by introducing new hyperparameters, thereby increasing the cost of model training through expensive cross-validation experiments. These methods mainly focus on local gradient patterns, which may not be effective in scenarios with multiple local optima near the global optimum. A new technique called Learning Rate Tuner with Relative Adaptation (LRT-RA) is introduced to tackle these issues. This approach dynamically adjusts LRs during training by analyzing the global loss curve, eliminating the need for costly initial LR estimation through cross-validation. This method reduces training expenses and carbon footprint and enhances training efficiency. It demonstrates promising results in preventing premature convergence, exhibiting inherent optimization behavior, and elucidating the correlation between dataset distribution and optimal LR selection. The proposed method achieves 84.96% accuracy on the CIFAR-10 dataset while reducing the power usage to 0.07 kWh, CO2 emissions to 0.05, and both SO2 and NOx emissions to 0.00003 pounds, during the whole training and testing process.
Securing Cyber Physical Systems: Lightweight Industrial Internet of Things Authentication (LI2A) for Critical Infrastructure and Manufacturing
Authors: Al Ghazo Alaa T. , Abu Mallouh Mohammed , Alajlouni Sa’ed , Almalkawi Islam T.
Published: January 2025

The increasing incorporation of Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) devices into critical industrial operations and critical infrastructures necessitates robust security measures to safeguard confidential information and ensure dependable connectivity. Particularly in Cyber Physical Systems (CPSs), IIoT system security becomes critical as systems become more interconnected and digital. This paper introduces a novel Lightweight Industrial IoT Authentication (LI2A) method as a solution to address security concerns in the industrial sector and smart city infrastructure. Mutual authentication, authenticated message integrity, key agreement, soundness, forward secrecy, resistance to a variety of assaults, and minimal resource consumption are all features offered by LI2A. Critical to CPS operations, the approach prevents impersonation, man-in-the-middle, replay, eavesdropping, and modification assaults, according to a security study. The method proposed herein ensures the integrity of CPS networks by verifying communication reliability, identifying unauthorized message modifications, establishing a shared session key between users and IIoT devices, and periodically updating keys to ensure sustained security. A comprehensive assessment of performance takes into account each aspect of storage, communication, and computation. The communication and computing capabilities of LI2A, which are critical for the operation of CPS infrastructure, are demonstrated through comparisons with state-of-the-art systems from the literature. LI2A can be implemented in resource-constrained IIoT devices found in CPS and industrial environments, according to the results. By integrating IIoT devices into critical processes in CPS, it is possible to enhance security while also promoting urban digitalization and sustainability.
Biomonitoring of Environmental Pollution Using Forest Tree Foliage Chemistry at Extremely Contaminated, Post-Industrial Sites
Authors: Likus-Cieślik Justyna , Orlikowska Paula , Pietrzykowski Marcin
Published: January 2025

Biomonitoring based on foliage chemistry was used to study the effects of environmental sulfur (S) pollution on forest stands. The foliage samples were collected in two forest ecosystems exposed to industrial emissions: a zinc (Zn) and lead (Pb) smelter plant in Silesia (HCM) and a reclaimed forest on the site of the former borehole S mine Jeziórko (FJSM), in the Tarnobrzeg S deposit region (southern Poland). Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) and silver birch (Betula pendula Roth.) foliage chemistry was analyzed: S (using a TruMac CNS analyzer, Leco Corporation, Saint Joseph, MI, USA), N, P, K Ca, and Mg, and trace elements (Zn, Cd, Pb, Al, Fe, Mn, Cu) using an ICP OES ICAP 6000 spectrometer, Thermo Fisher Scientific, Waltham, MA, USA),. At the HCM site, 20 monitoring points were located in the forest at different directions and at varying distances from the smelter plant. At the FJSM site, 16 sampling points were distributed depending on vegetation type and tree species abudance. The S content in foliage was generally high at both sites. However, at the HCM site, the highest S content was found in areas close to the smelter plant (1664 mg kg−1) and decreased linearly according to the direction of the dominant wind to the east (1098 mg kg−1). S was correlated with Zn, Cd, and Pb (the main elements produced in the smelter plant). At the FJSM site, high S concentrations were observed in degraded soil areas (4816 mg kg−1 in birch, 1563 mg kg−1 in pine). These areas were hot spots that had the highest amount of S in the soil. These results indicate high biosorption of the pollutant by trees. The S concentration was also higher in birch (B) than in pine (P) foliage (regular forest: 1954 mg kg−1 in B, 1272 mg kg−1 in P; degraded area: 4816 mg kg−1 in B, 1563 mg kg−1 in P), and the differences were significant in the degraded areas. At the FJSM site, S was also correlated with Zn and, to a lesser extent, with Cd and Pb. S also influenced nutrient element supply status, in particular Mg. We confirmed that tree foliage chemistry reflects the state of the environment in highly polluted areas, so biomonitoring should be used to assessment of environmental pollution.
Predicting Intensive Care Unit Admissions in COVID-19 Patients: An AI-Powered Machine Learning Model
Authors: Mutawa A. M.
Published: January 2025

Intensive Care Units (ICUs) have been in great demand worldwide since the COVID-19 pandemic, necessitating organized allocation. The spike in critical care patients has overloaded ICUs, which along with prolonged hospitalizations, has increased workload for medical personnel and lead to a significant shortage of resources. The study aimed to improve resource management by quickly and accurately identifying patients who need ICU admission. We designed an intelligent decision support system that employs machine learning (ML) to anticipate COVID-19 ICU admissions in Kuwait. Our algorithm examines several clinical and demographic characteristics to identify high-risk individuals early in illness diagnosis. We used 4399 patients to identify ICU admission with predictors such as shortness of breath, high D-dimer values, and abnormal chest X-rays. Any data imbalance was addressed by employing cross-validation along with the Synthetic Minority Oversampling Technique (SMOTE), the feature selection was refined using backward elimination, and the model interpretability was improved using Shapley Additive Explanations (SHAP). We employed various ML classifiers, including support vector machines (SVM). The SVM model surpasses all other models in terms of precision (0.99) and area under curve (AUC, 0.91). This study investigated the healthcare process during a pandemic, facilitating ML-based decision-making solutions to confront healthcare problems.
Genetic Variants Related to Increased CKD Progression—A Systematic Review
Authors: Mira Filipe S. , Oliveiros Bárbara , Carreira Isabel Marques , Alves Rui , Ribeiro Ilda Patrícia
Published: January 2025

The incidence and prevalence of chronic kidney disease (CKD) are increasing worldwide. CKD is associated with high morbidity, premature mortality, and high healthcare costs. Genetic variants may influence CKD development and progression. This study aimed to identify the associations between allelic variants and CKD progression. We performed a systematic literature review following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. The PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Central databases were used for data collection. Hereditary causes of CKD were excluded from the analysis. A total of 38 reports were included. The selected studies included cohort studies, case-control studies, and genome-wide association studies (GWASs). The studies involved patients of different ethnicities and with comorbid diseases. Several genetic variants were identified in genes that encode proteins related to metabolic processes, oxidative stress, immune regulation, the renin–angiotensin–aldosterone pathway, and epigenetics, among others. These genetic alterations can affect protein function and lead to renal damage, impacting CKD development and progression. Gene polymorphisms can influence CKD progression. Many of these are population-specific, and their relevance may be influenced by the presence of other diseases and environmental factors. Larger studies are needed to confirm the associations described here.
MeStanG—Resource for High-Throughput Sequencing Standard Data Sets Generation for Bioinformatic Methods Evaluation and Validation
Authors: Ramos Lopez Daniel , Flores Francisco J. , Espindola Andres S.
Published: January 2025

Metagenomics analysis has enabled the measurement of the microbiome diversity in environmental samples without prior targeted enrichment. Functional and phylogenetic studies based on microbial diversity retrieved using HTS platforms have advanced from detecting known organisms and discovering unknown species to applications in disease diagnostics. Robust validation processes are essential for test reliability, requiring standard samples and databases deriving from real samples and in silico generated artificial controls. We propose a MeStanG as a resource for generating HTS Nanopore data sets to evaluate present and emerging bioinformatics pipelines. MeStanG allows samples to be designed with user-defined organism abundances expressed as number of reads, reference sequences, and predetermined or custom errors by sequencing profiles. The simulator pipeline was evaluated by analyzing its output mock metagenomic samples containing known read abundances using read mapping, genome assembly, and taxonomic classification on three scenarios: a bacterial community composed of nine different organisms, samples resembling pathogen-infected wheat plants, and a viral pathogen serial dilution sampling. The evaluation was able to report consistently the same organisms, and their read abundances as provided in the mock metagenomic sample design. Based on this performance and its novel capacity of generating exact number of reads, MeStanG can be used by scientists to develop mock metagenomic samples (artificial HTS data sets) to assess the diagnostic performance metrics of bioinformatic pipelines, allowing the user to choose predetermined or customized models for research and training.
Occurrence of Intersex in the Marine Mussel Perumytilus purpuratus (Mollusca: Bivalvia): Does Gonadal Parasitism Play a Role?
Authors: Oyarzún Pablo A. , Diaz Sebastián , Rodríguez Sara M. , Ruiz-Tagle Gonzalo , Nuñez José J. , Toro Jorge E.
Published: January 2025

Intersexuality is a reproductive phenomenon that occurs in some gonochoric species and refers to the simultaneous presence of both male and female gametes within the same individual. Although this phenomenon has been reported in various invertebrate species, many aspects remain poorly understood, especially in marine mussels. However, it has been suggested that the prevalence of parasites within populations could induce the occurrence of intersex animals. We studied intersexuality in the marine mollusk Perumytilus purpuratus, a key species of the rocky intertidal zone on the southeastern coast of the Pacific Ocean. A total of 6472 mussels from eight locations in northern and southern Chile were analyzed. We estimated the size of the specimens, the sex ratio of the population, and the prevalence of parasites. Additionally, we examined the germ cells of intersex mussels. The results showed that the male-to-female sex ratio (1:1) was maintained in the populations. Intersex mussels were found in six of the eight locations, representing 0.19% of the mussels analyzed. However, no parasites were found in the intersex animals. Additionally, the abundance of intersex individuals was not correlated with parasitism levels in the population. In intersex mussels, the gonadal tissue was compartmentalized, with male and female germ cells remaining separate. It is concluded that intersexuality in Perumytilus purpuratus is a low-frequency reproductive phenomenon, likely resulting from an alteration in the sex determination mechanism. Intersexuality offers a valuable opportunity to explore the biological aspects of sex determination in mussels. Therefore, further research in this area should be pursued.
7,12-Dimethylbenz(a)anthracene as a Model for Ovarian Cancer Induction in Rats
Authors: Gonçalves Ana Carolina Ciseski , Carvalho Katia Candido , Turri José Antônio Orellana , Simões Ricardo dos Santos , Carvalho Jesus Paula , da Silva Luiz Fernando Ferraz , Soares Júnior José Maria , Baracat Edmund Chada
Published: January 2025

Ovarian cancer has the highest mortality rate of all gynecological cancers. Animal models using 7,12-dimethylbenz(a)anthracene (DMBA) have been developed to investigate the mechanisms of ovarian carcinogenesis. The present study is a systematic review of efforts to establish DMBA as a model for ovarian cancer induction in rat models. A total of 432 studies were retrieved from the Medline/PubMed and Embase databases. The studies using DMBA to induce ovarian cancer with isolated results were included in our analysis, and their data were meta-analyzed. The ROBINS-I tool and a meta-analysis demonstrated a low risk of bias (less than 1%) for increased effectiveness and no bias for mortality. The results were all similar: regardless of the dose, administration route, animal strain, or induction time, the induction rate of ovarian tumors was always high, reinforcing the role of DMBA as an effective inducer of ovarian carcinogenesis. We conclude that ovarian carcinogenesis can be studied using DMBA as an inducer in rat and mouse models with a long time range for tumor establishment (at least 110 days) and a high rate of mortality. CNPq (No. 304264/2021-0) and FAPESP (Protocol No. 2018/24224-9).
Roadmap for Designing Donor-π-Acceptor Fluorophores in UV-Vis and NIR Regions: Synthesis, Optical Properties and Applications
Authors: Ersoy Guliz , Henary Maged
Published: January 2025

Donor acceptor (D-π-A) fluorophores containing a donor unit and an acceptor moiety at each end connected by a conjugated linker gained attention in the last decade due to their conjugated system and ease of tunability. These features make them good candidates for various applications such as bioimaging, photovoltaic devices and nonlinear optical materials. Upon excitation of the D-π-A fluorophore, intramolecular charge transfer (ICT) occurs, and it polarizes the molecule resulting in the ‘push–pull’ system. The emission wavelengths of fluorophores can be altered from UV-vis to NIR region by modifying the donor unit, acceptor moiety and the π linker between them. The NIR emitting fluorophores with restricted molecular rotations are used in aggregation-induced emission (AIE). D-π-A fluorophores with carboxylic acid and cyano groups are preferred in photovoltaic applications, and fluorophores with large surface area are used for two photon absorbing applications. Herein, we report the synthesis, optical properties, and applications of various D-π-A fluorophores in UV-vis and NIR region.
The Progression of Mycosis Fungoides During Treatment with Mogamulizumab: A BIO-MUSE Case Study of the Tumor and Immune Response in Peripheral Blood and Tissue
Authors: Johansson Angelica , Kalliara Eirini , Belfrage Emma , Alling Teodor , Pyl Paul Theodor , Gerdtsson Anna Sandström , Gullberg Urban , Porwit Anna , Drott Kristina , Ek Sara
Published: January 2025

Background/objectives: Mycosis fungoides (MF) is a rare malignancy, with an indolent course in the early stages of the disease. However, due to major molecular and clinical heterogeneity, patients at an advanced stage of the disease have variable responses to treatment and considerably reduced life expectancy. Today, there is a lack of specific markers for the progression from early to advanced stages of the disease. To address these challenges, the non-interventional BIO-MUSE trial was initiated. Here, we report on a case study involving one patient, where combined omics analysis of tissue and blood was used to reveal the unique molecular features associated with the progression of the disease. Methods: We applied 10× genomics-based single-cell RNA sequencing to CD3+ peripheral T-cells, combined with T-cell receptor sequencing, to samples collected at multiple timepoints during the progression of the disease. In addition, GeoMx-based digital spatial profiling of T-helper (CD3+/CD8−), T-cytotoxic (CD3+/CD8+), and CD163+ cells was performed on skin biopsies. Results. The results pinpoint targets, such as transforming growth factor β1, as some of the mechanisms underlying disease progression, which may have the potential to improve patient prognostication and the development of precision medicine efforts. Conclusions: We propose that in patients with MF, the evolution of the malignant clone and the associated immune response need to be studied jointly to define relevant strategies for intervention.
An Analysis of the Effectiveness and Safety of Upadacitinib in the Treatment of Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Multicenter Real-World Study
Authors: Wu Hongzhen , Xie Tingting , Yu Qiao , Su Tao , Zhang Min , Wu Luying , Wang Xiaoling , Peng Xiang , Zhi Min , Yao Jiayin
Published: January 2025

Background and Aims: Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) requires effective treatment options. Upadacitinib, a Janus kinase 1 (JAK1) inhibitor, has shown effectiveness in trials for Crohn’s disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC). This study evaluates its real-world effectiveness and safety. Methods: We conducted a multicenter retrospective cohort study in tertiary care centers, involving patients treated with upadacitinib from January 2023 to September 2024. The study included adult patients aged 18 years or older, diagnosed with UC or CD, who received at least 8 weeks of upadacitinib therapy. Treatment outcomes were evaluated using established clinical, endoscopic, imaging, histological, and laboratory parameters. Results: A total of 236 IBD patients received upadacitinib treatment. In 80 UC patients at 8 weeks, 64.0% achieved steroid-free remission, 57.6% clinical remission, and 81.8% response. Endoscopic remission was 35.8% (p = 0.039), with 63.3% response and 35.8% mucosal healing. Histological remission reached 29.2% (p = 0.009). For 156 CD patients at 12 weeks, 76.8% achieved steroid-free remission (p < 0.001), 77.8% clinical remission (p < 0.001), and 81.0% response. Mean CDAI decreased from 214.9 to 117.5 (p < 0.001). Endoscopic remission was 19.4%, with 48.9% response and 4.9% mucosal healing. Radiological remission was 9.1% with 85.7% response. Intestinal ultrasound showed 5.7% remission and 56.7% response. Conclusions: Upadacitinib demonstrates significant real-world effectiveness and safety in IBD, particularly in biologic-resistant cases, as evidenced by high rates of steroid-free remission and clinical response. These outcomes are likely due to its targeted JAK1 inhibition, which effectively reduces inflammation and promotes mucosal healing. Future research should focus on long-term safety, comparative effectiveness with other biologics, and its application in diverse patient populations. These findings support the integration of upadacitinib into IBD management strategies.
Monte Carlo Simulation of Aromatic Molecule Adsorption on Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotube Surfaces Using Coefficient of Conformism of a Correlative Prediction (CCCP)
Authors: Toropova Alla P. , Toropov Andrey A. , Roncaglioni Alessandra , Benfenati Emilio
Published: January 2025

Using the Monte Carlo technique via CORAL-2024 software, models of aromatic substance adsorption on multi-walled nanotubes were constructed. Possible mechanistic interpretations of such models and the corresponding applicability domains were investigated. In constructing the models, criteria of the predictive potential such as the iIndex of Ideality of Correlation (IIC), the Correlation Intensity Index (CII), and the Coefficient of Conformism of a Correlative Prediction (CCCP) were used. It was assumed that the CCCP could serve as a tool for increasing the predictive potential of adsorption models of organic substances on the surface of nanotubes. The developed models provided good predictive potential. The perspectives on the improvement of the nano-QSPR/QSAR were discussed.
Recent Advances in the Clinical Translation of Small-Cell Lung Cancer Therapeutics
Authors: Das Subhadeep , Samaddar Shayak
Published: January 2025

Small-cell lung cancer (SCLC) is a recalcitrant form of cancer, representing 15% of lung cancer cases globally. SCLC is classified within the range of neuroendocrine pulmonary neoplasms, exhibiting shared morphologic, ultrastructural, immunohistochemical, and molecular genomic features. It is marked by rapid proliferation, a propensity for early metastasis, and an overall poor prognosis. The current conventional therapies involve platinum–etoposide-based chemotherapy in combination with immunotherapy. Nonetheless, the rapid emergence of therapeutic resistance continues to pose substantial difficulties. The genomic profiling of SCLC uncovers significant chromosomal rearrangements along with a considerable mutation burden, typically involving the functional inactivation of the tumor suppressor genes TP53 and RB1. Identifying biomarkers and evaluating new treatments is crucial for enhancing outcomes in patients with SCLC. Targeted therapies such as topoisomerase inhibitors, DLL3 inhibitors, HDAC inhibitors, PARP inhibitors, Chk1 inhibitors, etc., have introduced new therapeutic options for future applications. In this current review, we will attempt to outline the key molecular pathways that play a role in the development and progression of SCLC, together with a comprehensive overview of the most recent advancements in the development of novel targeted treatment strategies, as well as some ongoing clinical trials against SCLC, with the goal of improving patient outcomes.
A Review of Telomere Attrition in Cancer and Aging: Current Molecular Insights and Future Therapeutic Approaches
Authors: Iskandar Mina , Xiao Barbero Miguel , Jaber Muhamed , Chen Roy , Gomez-Guevara Romulo , Cruz Edwin , Westerheide Sandy
Published: January 2025

Background/Objectives: As cells divide, telomeres shorten through a phenomenon known as telomere attrition, which leads to unavoidable senescence of cells. Unprotected DNA exponentially increases the odds of mutations, which can evolve into premature aging disorders and tumorigenesis. There has been growing academic and clinical interest in exploring this duality and developing optimal therapeutic strategies to combat telomere attrition in aging and cellular immortality in cancer. The purpose of this review is to provide an updated overview of telomere biology and therapeutic tactics to address aging and cancer. Methods: We used the Rayyan platform to review the PubMed database and examined the ClinicalTrial.gov registry to gain insight into clinical trials and their results. Results: Cancer cells activate telomerase or utilize alternative lengthening of telomeres to escape telomere shortening, leading to near immortality. Contrarily, normal cells experience telomeric erosion, contributing to premature aging disorders, such as Werner syndrome and Hutchinson–Gilford Progeria, and (2) aging-related diseases, such as neurodegenerative and cardiovascular diseases. Conclusions: The literature presents several promising therapeutic approaches to potentially balance telomere maintenance in aging and shortening in cancer. This review highlights gaps in knowledge and points to the potential of these optimal interventions in preclinical and clinical studies to inform future research in cancer and aging.
Neoadjuvant Accelerated Methotrexate, Vinblastine, Doxorubicin, and Cisplatin Chemotherapy for Muscle-Invasive Urothelial Cancer: Large, Single-Center Analysis of Consecutive Patients’ Data
Authors: Kwinta Łukasz , Konopka Kamil , Okoń Krzysztof , Łobacz Mateusz , Chłosta Piotr , Dudek Przemysław , Buda-Nowak Anna , Potocki Paweł , Wysocki Piotr J.
Published: January 2025

Background/Objectives: Bladder cancer is a significant clinical problem with approximately 500,000 new cases worldwide annually. In approximately 25% of cases, disease is diagnosed at a stage of invasion of the muscle layer of the bladder. The current standard approach in this disease is preoperative chemotherapy followed by radical cystectomy. Dose-dense MVAC (ddMVAC), a two-day chemotherapy regimen, is the reference treatment protocol in this setting. The presented study evaluated the effectiveness and safety of accelerated MVAC (aMVAC) chemotherapy—a one-day regimen given before the resection of the bladder due to muscle-invasive disease. Methods: A retrospective analysis included 119 consecutive patients diagnosed with urothelial muscle-invasive bladder cancer (MIBC) who underwent preoperative chemotherapy with the aMVAC regimen. The planned treatment included 4–6 cycles of preoperative chemotherapy. The analysis of the degree of histopathological response to treatment was based on the three-grade TRG (tumor regression grade) classification. Results: A complete pathological response (TRG1) was observed in 44 patients (36.7%), and a major pathologic response (<ypT2) was achieved in 58 patients (48.7%). A reduction in the cisplatin dose was associated with a statistically significant decrease in the chance of achieving complete pathologic responses (46.1% vs. 10%, RR for TRG1 = 0.69, p = 0.00118). Patients who received at least 4 cycles (compared to ≤3 cycles) of neoadjuvant chemotherapy had a significantly higher chance of achieving a pathological response (partial or complete) to treatment (78.1% vs. 52.2%, RR 0.68, p = 0.0374). Administration of at least five cycles of chemotherapy was associated (compared to four cycles) with a significantly higher likelihood of achieving a complete pathological response (63.2% vs. 33.8%, RR = 1.71, p = 0.0221). The vast majority of adverse events were in grades 1 and 2, according to CTCAE version 5.0. Only five patients experienced grade 3–4 toxicities. The most common adverse event was anemia, which occurred in 66.3% of patients. Conclusions: Our real-world data analysis confirms the activity, safety, and feasibility of the aMVAC regimen as neoadjuvant chemotherapy in patients with urothelial MIBC.
Imaging Flow Cytometric Identification of Chromosomal Defects in Paediatric Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia
Authors: Simpson Ana P. A. , George Carly E. , Hui Henry Y. L. , Doddi Ravi , Kotecha Rishi S. , Fuller Kathy A. , Erber Wendy N.
Published: January 2025

Acute lymphoblastic leukaemia is the most common childhood malignancy that remains a leading cause of death in childhood. It may be characterised by multiple known recurrent genetic aberrations that inform prognosis, the most common being hyperdiploidy and t(12;21) ETV6::RUNX1. We aimed to assess the applicability of a new imaging flow cytometry methodology that incorporates cell morphology, immunophenotype, and fluorescence in situ hybridisation (FISH) to identify aneuploidy of chromosomes 4 and 21 and the translocation ETV6::RUNX1. We evaluated this new “immuno-flowFISH” platform on 39 cases of paediatric ALL of B-lineage known to have aneuploidy of chromosomes 4 and 21 and the translocation ETV6::RUNX1. After identifying the leukaemic population based on immunophenotype (i.e., expression of CD34, CD10, and CD19 antigens), we assessed for copy numbers of loci for the centromeres of chromosomes 4 and 21 and the ETV6 and RUNX1 regions using fluorophore-labelled DNA probes in more than 1000 cells per sample. Trisomy 4 and 21, tetrasomy 21, and translocations of ETV6::RUNX1, as well as gains and losses of ETV6 and RUNX1, could all be identified based on FISH spot counts and digital imagery. There was variability in clonal makeup in individual cases, suggesting the presence of sub-clones. Copy number alterations and translocations could be detected even when the cell population comprised less than 1% of cells and included cells with a mature B-cell phenotype, i.e., CD19-positive, lacking CD34 and CD10. In this proof-of-principle study of 39 cases, this sensitive and specific semi-automated high-throughput imaging flow cytometric immuno-flowFISH method has been able to show that alterations in ploidy and ETV6::RUNX1 could be detected in the 39 cases of paediatric ALL. This imaging flow cytometric FISH method has potential applications for diagnosis and monitoring disease and marrow regeneration (i.e., distinguishing residual ALL from regenerating haematogones) following chemotherapy.