bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cultural Islamic Education Form the Character of Multicultural Elementary School Students
Authors: Baharuddin Baharuddin , Das St. Warda Hanafie , Elihami Elihami
Published: February 2025

This study aims to analyze how cultural Islamic education can shape the character of elementary school students in a multicultural environment. Cultural Islamic education focuses on the application of Islamic values within the context of diverse cultures, emphasizing tolerance, mutual respect, and understanding of differences. This research uses a qualitative approach with a case study method in several elementary schools that implement cultural Islamic education in a multicultural setting. Data were collected through in-depth interviews with teachers, students, and parents, as well as observations of teaching and learning activities in the classroom. The results of the study show that cultural Islamic education has a positive impact on shaping the students' character, particularly in the development of tolerance, empathy, and openness to cultural diversity. Furthermore, cultural Islamic education also helps students to better understand and appreciate cultural and religious differences in their environment, which in turn supports the creation of harmonious social relationships within the multicultural school community. This study recommends strengthening the integration of Islamic values into the elementary education curriculum as an effort to shape a more inclusive and multicultural student character
The Role of Microteaching in Enhancing Teaching Skills for Prospective Teachers in the Professional Teacher Education Program at UMS Rappang
Authors: Kasau M Nurzin , Aswadi Aswadi , Jumiati Jumiati , M Usman , Hanafi Muhammad , Hermansyah Sam , Ruswati Ruswati , Sanati Sanati
Published: February 2025

Microteaching plays a significant role in enhancing the teaching skills of prospective teachers, particularly in the Professional Teacher Education Program (PPG) at UMS Rappang. This method offers a structured and systematic approach to prepare future educators for real classroom settings by simulating teaching experiences in a controlled environment. Through microteaching, participants practice specific teaching skills such as lesson planning, classroom management, and effective communication. They also receive direct feedback from peers and mentors, allowing them to reflect and improve continuously. The implementation of microteaching at UMS Rappang has shown to boost pedagogical competence, confidence, and readiness among prospective teachers, ultimately contributing to the improvement of educational quality.
The Influence of Problem-Based Learning Model in teacher Professional Education on Students’ Problem Solving Skills
Authors: Hanafi Muhammad , Khalik Suhartini , M Usman , Hermansyah Sam , Idayanti Idayanti , Nawir Muhammad , Sarifuddin Sarifuddin
Published: February 2025

Problem-Based Learning (PBL) has emerged as an effective pedagogical model in teacher professional education programs (Pendidikan Profesi Guru/PPG) to enhance problem-solving skills among students. This study examines the impact of PBL implementation in PPG on the development of problem-solving abilities in learners. Key findings indicate that PBL fosters critical thinking, collaborative learning, and independent study skills while promoting the practical application of theoretical concepts. Additionally, PBL encourages reflective practices and reduces students' dependency on teachers, enabling them to become self-reliant problem solvers. Recommendations for PPG include integrating simulation-based learning, emphasizing process-oriented assessments, and providing initial mentorship for novice teachers. The study concludes that PBL not only equips future educators with innovative teaching strategies but also positively influences students’ cognitive and social skills, making it a vital approach in modern education.
Comparative Study: Teaching Expriences of Prospective Teachers before and After Participating in the Teacher Professional Education Program at UMS Rappang
Authors: Aswadi Aswadi , Hermansyah Sam , Sadapotto Andi , Buhari Buhari , Manda Ibrahim , T Syamsu , Hanafi Muhammad , Jala Jusrianto , Amalia Amalia
Published: February 2025

This study aims to compare the teaching experiences of prospective teachers before and after participating in the Teacher Professional Education Program (PPG) at UMS Rappang. The research utilizes a qualitative descriptive method, collecting data through interviews, observations, and document analysis. Findings indicate significant improvements in pedagogical skills, classroom management, and teaching confidence after the completion of the PPG program. The study highlights the role of professional education in preparing teachers for effective classroom practice and fostering a deeper understanding of teaching methodologies. These findings suggest that PPG plays a vital role in shaping competent and professional educators
Development of PowerPoint Learning Media Using 3D Animation Features for Science Subjects at MTs Negeri 1 Sidenreng Rappang
Authors: Nabilah Said Andi Nafiisah , Nurmayanti Nurmayanti , Madaling Madaling
Published: February 2025

Animated 3-dimensional PowerPoint is teaching material that is packaged interactively to foster student motivation and learning motivation. The aim of this research is to determine the results of the development of 3-dimensional animated PowerPoint and the level of validity and practicality of 3-dimensional animated PowerPoint in class VIII B science studies at MTs Negeri 1 Sidenreng Rappang. The method applied is Research and Development (R&D) with the ADDIE research and development model, which consists of five stages: analysis, design, development, implementation and evaluation. Data analysis in this research is quantitative data analysis in the form of questionnaires for material and media validators, questionnaires for teacher and student responses. The research results show that the results of the development of 3-dimensional animated PowerPoint are classified as very valid for use with an overall percentage of 95.5% and the results in the practicality test show that 3-dimensional animated PowerPoint meets the very practical criteria with a percentage value of 98%. This means that the 3-dimensional animated PowerPoint developed is suitable for use in class VIII B science learning at Mts Negeri 1 Sidenreng Rappang.
Efforts to Improve the Quality of Early Childhood Education
Authors: Fahimah Nurul , Puspita Shinta Mutiara , Sulistiono Eko
Published: February 2025

This research is motivated by the fact that PAUD teachers are required to have competencies that include pedagogical, personal, professional, and social to support children's development optimally. Teachers play an important role in efforts to develop their students' motor skills, so that children become individuals who develop according to their development and are more independent. The aim of this research is to determine efforts to improve the quality of early childhood education. This research uses a qualitative research design, this research involves PAUD teachers as resource persons. Based on the research results, it shows that teacher competence is a determining factor in teacher success in carrying out their duties to facilitate children's development. The four teacher competencies (professional, pedagogical, personality and social competencies) must always be developed and improved to maintain the quality and improve the quality of learning activities in schools. Support from various parties is important in the process of increasing teacher competency.
Development of Patane and Its Impact on the Environment in Toraja
Authors: Pakiding Yulius , Pakiding Alexander , Tulak Harmelia , Payung Adel Rante
Published: February 2025

The cemetery as a place to store the body is a very important place for the Toraja community. In the past, the most widely used places as graves were in specially made stone burrows, in natural stone caves that were considered safe, in certain woods usually for the corpses of babies and partly buried in the ground. In modern times, many Toraja people choose to build a special place for burials called Patane with various considerations. Usually this place was built by one family and became a family cemetery. The size varies according to the wishes of the family concerned but on average is 4 x 6 m with a height of about 3 m. The location of the patane construction depends on the family's agreement and usually uses a place that is considered strategic or good.  From the results of the research carried out, the growth of patane buildings is an average of two patane buildings built every year with an average building area of 33.63 m2 and using an average land area of 100.9 m2. The environmental impacts caused are: 1. Positive impacts, namely the location of a neat and well-organized patane building can become a tourist attraction and Because each patane building can accommodate many bodies, it can save land use for the cemetery (if all the bodies stored in the patane are buried in the ground). 2. Negative impact, namely the arrangement of the environment is not neat because the location of the patane development is not well organized because there are no rules about its construction and the reduction of productive strategic space of around 100.9 m2 every year. (compared to using stone burrows, erongs, and caves that use unproductive land).
Implementation biases in wildlife trade regulation foster unscientific and inequitable intervention strategies
Authors: Kolby Jonathan E. , Goodman Orion L. B.
Published: February 2025

International conservation initiatives such as international wildlife trade regulation are important for species conservation efforts, but many current implementation models lend themselves to an environment that promotes biased values and inequitable distribution of benefits and responsibilities. This Perspective article aims to highlight prevailing sentiments observed among the international conservation community that contribute to asymmetrical discourse, policy development, and enforcement. These biases can limit the positive biodiversity impacts of interventions, preventing them from accomplishing species or landscape conservation goals. They can also contribute to mistrust between stakeholders, therefore adversely affecting relationships that are crucial to maintaining biodiversity and ecosystem services. Additionally, interventions and policies can be shaped more by subjective judgments of value than by science. The regulation of foreign bushmeat in the United States and the discourse surrounding it demonstrates the presence of value judgments in conservation policy. It also demonstrates how these value judgments appear to supplant evidence-based policy development and promote a landscape of wildlife resource use where some species and usages are permitted and others are considered unacceptable. The ramifications of these inequities can be seen in protected area and species management strategies globally but are particularly prevalent in African and Asian regions, where militarization and shoot-to-kill policies are in place. We argue that fostering sustainable wildlife resource use is enormously complex and requires a scientific, evidence-based approach to develop and implement initiatives that are both fair and effective. These arguments are supported through the use of select quotations from notable public authorities.
Genetic variation in RYR1 is associated with heart failure progression and mortality in a diverse patient population
Authors: Guerra Leonardo A. , Lteif Christelle , Huang Yimei , Flohr Rylie M. , Nogueira Alejandra C. , Gawronski Brian E. , Duarte Julio D.
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Heart failure (HF) is a highly prevalent disease affecting roughly 7 million Americans. A transcriptome-wide analysis revealed RYR1 upregulation in HF patients with severe pulmonary hypertension. Therefore, we aimed to further characterize the role of RYR1 in HF progression and mortality.

Methods

In a mouse model of HF, expression of Ryr1 was compared in cardiac pulmonary, and vascular tissue between HF and control mice. Candidate single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the RYR1 gene region were identified, including variants affecting RYR1 expression in relevant tissue types. A Cox proportional hazard model was used to analyze genetic associations of candidate SNPs with all-cause mortality in HF patients. An exploratory analysis assessed significantly associated SNPs with risk of HF and arrhythmia development.

Results

In the preclinical HF model, left ventricular expression of Ryr1 was increased compared to control (fold change = 2.08; P = 0.01). In 327 HF patients, decreased mortality risk was associated with two RYR1 SNPs: rs12974674 (HR: 0.59; 95% CI: 0.40–0.87; P = 0.007) and rs2915950 (HR: 0.62, 95% CI: 0.43–0.88; P = 0.008). Based on eQTL data, these SNPs were associated with decreased RYR1 expression in vascular tissue. Two missense variants, in linkage disequilibrium with rs2915950 (rs2915952 and rs2071089) were significantly associated with decreased mortality risk (P = 0.03) and decreased risk of atrial fibrillation/flutter (OR: 0.66, 95% CI: 0.44–0.96; P = 0.03 and OR: 0.67, 95% CI: 0.45–0.98; P = 0.04, respectively). Survival associations with these SNPs were replicated in HF patients self-identifying as Black in the UK Biobank, and the arrhythmia associations were replicated in the overall UK Biobank population.

Conclusion

Increased RYR1 expression may contribute to HF progression, potentially through the mechanisms associated with calcium handling and arrhythmia development. Our findings suggest that RYR1 should be further studied as a potential therapeutic target for reducing HF-related mortality.
Conceptualizing ‘quality of education’: an analysis of European political documents on education
Authors: Figueiredo Carla
Published: February 2025

This paper conceptualizes ‘quality of education’ in the European political discourse. The expression ‘education quality’ and its variations are frequently found in literature and policies at supranational, international, national, and local levels but are not explicitly defined. However, it is assumed to be a goal that countries pursue and has gained prominence in the European context. Acknowledging the European agencies’ legislation’s influence on Member-States’ domestic policies, understanding what “education quality” means is of the utmost importance. Based on the content analysis of political documents issued by several European agencies, this paper categorizes, systematizes, and interprets the European political discourse on education to infer aspects that can compose ‘quality of education’ and develop an understanding of the concept. The analysis resulted in the systematization of three aspects that help to conceptualize the ‘quality’ of education: (i) ‘What is expected of education’; (ii) ‘Components of education quality’; (iii) ‘Priorities for Education’. Based on these aspects, a generic definition was formulated stating that education of quality is oriented toward preparing people to contribute to the social and political project, acquiring knowledge, skills, and competences to be productive; needing motivated and well-prepared teachers and leaders, adequate conditions, and being closely monitored and evaluated. The paper concludes with some recommendations. The paper conclusions could help policy-makers and school professionals in their professional practice and reaching education quality. Nonetheless, by only focusing on European documents addressing ‘quality of education’ the paper may present a narrower perspective that could be complemented by analyzing a wider range of international/transnational documents.
Prognostic performance of examined lymph nodes, lymph node ratio, and positive lymph nodes in gastric cancer: a competing risk model study
Authors: Gu Xiao , Du Yaqi
Published: February 2025

Background

Previous research on the prognostic effectiveness of examined lymph nodes (ELN), lymph node ratio (LNR), and positive lymph nodes (pN) in postoperative gastric cancer (GC) has yielded inconsistent results despite their widespread use.

Methods

This study used a competing risk model (CRM) to evaluate the prognostic efficacy of these markers in patients with GC. Data from 337 patients with lymph node (LN)-positive stage II GC undergoing resection and chemotherapy between 2010 and 2015 were collected from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results database. Optimal cutoff values for ELN and LNR were determined using restricted cubic splines, and pN was divided into three groups based on the AJCC staging system. The survival analyses were conducted using Kaplan–Meier curves, Cox proportional hazards analysis, cumulative incidence curves, and CRM. Subgroup analysis and interaction tests were performed to evaluate the correlation between LN status and survival within subgroups.

Results

The results indicated that the optimal cutoff values for ELN, LNR, and pN were 16, 0.1, and 2. Multivariate Cox analysis showed that ELN (hazard ratio [HR] = 0.67), LNR (HR = 2.23), and pN (HR = 2.80) were independent predictors of overall survival, whereas only LNR (HR = 2.08) was independently associated with disease-specific survival. The CRM revealed that LNR (sub-distribution hazard ratio [SHR] = 1.89) and pN (SHR = 2.80) were independently associated with disease-specific survival.

Conclusion

In conclusion, ELN, LNR, and pN are all significant predictors of overall survival for GC. However, LNR demonstrates stronger robustness in predicting DSS than ELN and pN. The LNR may supplement the TNM staging system in identifying prognostic discrepancies.
Thyroid nodule with cytological outcome of indeterminate lesion with low risk of malignancy found to be parathyroid adenoma. A case report and minireview of literature
Authors: Meomartino Letizia , Rossi Mattia , Selvatico Gloria , Rossetto Giaccherino Ruth , Pagano Loredana
Published: February 2025

Primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT) is the third most common endocrine disorder, typically caused by a single parathyroid adenoma. The diagnosis of PHPT is biochemical, and the localization of abnormal parathyroid glands is usually achieved through a combination of ultrasound and technetium-99m sestamibi (99mTc-MIBI) scans. In some cases, newer imaging modalities, such as positron emission tomography-computed tomography (PET-CT) with 18F-fluorocholine or 11C-methionine, are used as second-line methods. Consequently, parathyroid tissue (PTT) is not typically sampled by fine needle aspiration biopsy (FNAb). However, with an incidence ranging from 9% to 22%, the affected parathyroid gland may present in an ectopic location, with the thyroid gland being a possible site. In intra-thyroidal parathyroid adenomas (IPAs), the differential diagnosis with thyroid nodules can be challenging due to similar ultrasound features and the potential uptake of 99mTc-MIBI by some thyroid nodules. As a result, such lesions may sometimes undergo unintentional cytological examination, leading to the risk of misinterpretation as cytologically indeterminate thyroid lesions. This can result in both misdiagnosis and inappropriate surgical approach. For this reason, a routine evaluation of calcium-phosphorus metabolism could prove beneficial as part of the diagnostic workup for cytologically indeterminate thyroid nodules, especially when surgery is planned. To support this diagnostic approach, we present a mini-review of the literature on this topic, along with a case report of an IPA misinterpreted as an indeterminate thyroid lesion (TIR3A, according to the Italian Society for Anatomic Pathology and Cytology–Italian Thyroid Association 2014 classification system), diagnosed following the preoperative incidental detection of hypercalcemic PHPT.
Construction of a nomogram for predicting the risk of all-cause mortality in patients with diabetic retinopathy
Authors: Zuo Wenwei , Yang Xuelian
Published: February 2025

Background

Diabetic retinopathy (DR) not only leads to visual impairment but also increases the risk of death in type 2 diabetes patients. This study aimed to construct a nomogram to assess the risk of all-cause mortality in patients with DR.

Methods

This cross-sectional study included 1004 patients from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey database (NHANES) between 1999-2018. Participants were randomized in a 7:3 ratio into a training set and a test set. We selected predictors by LASSO regression and multifactorial Cox proportional risk regression analysis and constructed nomograms, guided by established clinical guidelines and expert consensus as the gold standard. We used the concordance index (C-index), receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC), calibration curve, and decision curve analysis (DCA) to evaluate the nomogram’s discriminative power, calibration quality, and clinical use.

Results

The training and test sets consisted of 703 and 301 participants with a median age of 64 and 63 years, respectively. The study identified seven predictors, including age, marital status, congestive heart failure (CHF), coronary heart disease (CHD), stroke, creatinine level, and taking insulin. The C-index of the nomogram model constructed from the training set was 0.738 (95% CI: 0.704-0.771), while the C-index of the test set was 0.716 (95% CI: 0.663-0.768). In the training set, the model’s AUC values for predicting all-cause mortality risk at 3 years, 5 years, and 10 years were 0.739, 0.765, and 0.808, respectively. In the test set, these AUC values were 0.737, 0.717, and 0.732, respectively. The ROC curve, calibration curve, and DCA curve all demonstrated excellent predictive performance, confirming the model’s effectiveness and reliability in clinical applications.

Conclusions

Our nomogram demonstrates high clinical predictive accuracy, enabling clinicians to effectively predict the overall mortality risk in patients with DR, thereby significantly improving their prognosis.
Analysing Pakistan’s fisheries legislation and institutional framework: integrating Sustainable Development Goal 14 within the scope of International Fisheries Law
Authors: Lina Liu , Murad Zaib Butt Muhammad
Published: February 2025

International Fisheries Law (IFL) provides innovative approaches to fisheries governance at national levels. The emergence of Sustainable Development Goal 14 (SDG 14) is phenomenal for fisheries because it creates new means for implementing IFL. Under SDG 14, fisheries governance for sustainable fisheries has become a complex and challenging task for any state. Developing States like Pakistan are struggling to achieve SDG 14 with new approaches to fisheries governance. The current situation of fisheries governance in Pakistan motivated the content of this research paper. This research paper adopted the comprehensive literature review (CLR) methodology to analyse existing fisheries governance mechanisms in Pakistan. Besides CLR, the paper also analysed a ‘case study’ on fisheries governance of Pakistan entitled ‘National Policy and Strategy for Marine Fisheries. Furthermore, one hundred sixty-seven research articles and national and international legislation on fisheries governance from 2010 - 2023 are analysed. The results of the CLR methodology suggested that an extensive integrated mechanism under a comprehensive framework should be developed for fisheries governance. The framework forwarded a policy mechanism incorporating sustainable development goals with SDG 14 that should be implemented coherently for sustainable fisheries. The discussion followed the analysis and suggested that regional to local and bottom-up and top-down approaches in fisheries governance are required to address the challenges to sustainable fisheries in Pakistan. The conclusion of the discussion portrayed that future research related to fisheries governance in Pakistan shall be based on the practical implementation of SDG 14.
Modified protocol for pterygium surgery without blades and electrocoagulation
Authors: Ge Huimin , Cao Guofan , Wang Jian , Zhang Shu
Published: February 2025

Purpose

To evaluate the efficacy, safety, and outcomes of a blade- and cautery-free surgical protocol for pterygium removal.

Methods

Pterygium removal surgery was done in 69 eyes (67 patients; 24 males and 43 females) who were followed up for at least 6 months. The surgery was characterized by blunt separation of the pterygium from the head to the limbal arc using the tip of Vannas scissors and modified procedures, such as transpositional flapping and suture closure. Neither a blade nor a cautery was used.

Results

The reported subjects were 60.7 years old on average, and most of them had primary pterygium (66 out of 69). The proposed surgical protocol was simple to perform, requiring an average operation time of 18.7 min which was shorter than that of the suture and fibrin glue groups mentioned in relevant reports. Post-anesthesia pain was relieved quickly 1 day after surgery without the use of pain killers. During the follow-up period of 11.3 ± 3.1 months, recurrence of pterygium requiring additional surgery was seen in only three eyes (4.3%).

Conclusion

The potential of the examined protocol as an easy, efficient, and reliable approach was demonstrated.
Evaluating the predictive value of clinical models for HBV-related hepatocellular carcinoma: A meta-analysis
Authors: Huang Long , Feng Luhuai , Lu Yang , Hu Bobin , Liang Hongqian , Ren Aoli , Wang Hang , He Wenming , Deng Caifang , Su Minghua , Jiang Jianning
Published: February 2025

Objectives

Chronic viral hepatitis B (CHB) is a prevalent liver disease with primary hepatic carcinoma (HCC) as a severe complication. Clinical prediction models have gained attention for predicting HBV-related HCC (HBV-HCC). This study aimed to evaluate the predictive value of existing models for HBV-HCC through meta-analysis.

Design

Meta-analysis.

Data sources

Embase, PubMed, the Chinese Biomedical Literature Service System, and the Cochrane database were used for searches between 1970 and 2022.

Methods

A meta-analysis was conducted to assess original studies on HBV-HCC prediction models. The REACH-B, GAGHCC, and CUHCC models were externally validated in a Guangxi cohort. The C-index and calibration curve evaluated 5 years predictive performance, with subgroup analysis by region and risk bias.

Results

After screening, 27 research articles were included, covering the GAGHCC, REACH-B, PAGE-B, CU-HCC, CAMD, and mPAGE-B models. The meta-analysis indicated that these models had moderate discrimination in predicting HCC risk in HBV-infected patients, with C-index values from 0.75 to 0.82. The mPAGE-B (0.79, 95% CI: 0.79–0.80), GAG-HCC (0.80, 95% CI: 0.78–0.82), and CAMD (0.80, 95% CI: 0.78–0.81) models demonstrated better discrimination than others (P < 0.05), but most studies did not report model calibration. Subgroup analysis suggested that ethnicity and research bias might contribute to differences in model discrimination. Sensitivity analysis indicated stable meta-analysis results. The REACH-B, GAGHCC, CUHCC, PAGE-B, and mPAGE-B models had average predictive performance in Guangxi, with medium to low 3 and 5 years HCC risk prediction discrimination.

Conclusion

Existing models have predictive value for HBV-infected patients but show geographical limitations and reduced effectiveness in Guangxi.
Research progress on the application of Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus GG in pediatric respiratory diseases
Authors: Liu Yang , Chen Yan , Liao Huijuan , Sun Shijie , Zhang Xiaohu , Xie Liang , Liu Hanmin
Published: February 2025

Respiratory diseases are a leading cause of morbidity in children globally, with significant healthcare costs. The overuse of conventional treatments like antibiotics has raised concerns about antibiotic resistance and side effects. Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG), one of the most extensively studied probiotics, has gained attention as a potential adjunct therapies due to their ability to modulate the gut microbiota and immune responses. This review aims to assess the effectiveness of LGG in managing pediatric respiratory diseases, including respiratory tract infections (RTI), cystic fibrosis (CF), and asthma. Clinical trials suggest LGG can reduce the incidence and severity of RTI, improving CF symptoms, and enhancing quality of life in children. However, evidence for its benefits in asthma remains inconclusive. Its mechanisms include modulating immune responses, enhancing gut barrier function, and maintaining a microbial homeostasis via the gut-lung axis. Existing studies are often limited by small sample sizes, heterogeneity in intervention protocols, and short follow-up periods. Emerging technologies and novel formulations, hold promise for unraveling the complex interactions among LGG, the gut-lung axis, and respiratory health. These advancements could pave the way for personalized probiotic therapies, highlighting the potential of LGG as a cost-effective, adjunctive therapy for pediatric respiratory diseases. This review underscores the broader significance of integrating LGG into pediatric healthcare, while calling for future research to overcome current limitations, optimize clinical protocols, and explore innovative therapeutic strategies.
Association between the p53 polymorphisms and cervical cancer risk: an updated meta-analysis
Authors: Zhang Xi-Qin , Bai Xiao-Hui , Zhang Hui-Zhen , He Xiao-Feng
Published: February 2025

Background

The association of the p53 rs1042522 and rs17878362 polymorphisms with cervical cancer risk has been reported in several published original studies and meta-analyses. However, the conclusions of these studies were contradictory. Consequently, we conducted an updated meta-analysis to further validate these debates.

Objective

To evaluate the association between the p53 rs1042522 and rs17878362 polymorphisms and cervical cancer risk.

Materials and Methods

PubMed, Medline, Ovid, Embase, CNKI, and China Wanfang databases were searched. Association was assessed using odds ratio (OR) with 95% confidence interval (CI). Moreover, the false-positive reporting probability (FPRP), Bayesian false-finding probability (BFDP), and Venice criteria were used to assess the credibility of statistically significant association.

Results

A significantly decreased cervical cancer risk was revealed for the p53 rs1042522 polymorphism (Pro/Pro +Arg/Pro vs. Arg/Arg: OR = 0.79, 95% CI = 0.71-0.87; Pro/Pro vs. Arg/Arg: OR = 0.80, 95% CI = 0.70-0.91; Arg/Pro vs. Arg/Arg: OR = 0.78, 95% CI = 0.71-0.86; Pro vs. Arg: OR = 0.87, 95% CI = 0.81-0.93) in overall analysis and several subgroup analyses, such as in Caucasians, Asians, Indians, and so on. However, no significant association was found between the p53 rs17878362 polymorphism and cervical cancer risk. Despite these statistically significant results, reliability analysis using FPRP, BFDP, and Venice criteria deemed all associations “unreliable”.

Conclusions

After considering the reliability of the results, this study indicates that the p53 rs1042522 polymorphism is not associated with the cervical cancer risk.
Case Report: Pulmonary sclerosing pneumocytoma mimicking as a neuroendocrine tumor on 18F-FDG and 68Ga-DOTATATE PET/CT: a case presentation
Authors: Yu Ronghua , Zhao Wei , Yu Yonglin , Hu Xianwen
Published: February 2025

Pulmonary sclerosing pneumocytoma (PSP) is a relatively rare benign lung tumor, and it is difficult to obtain an accurate diagnosis before surgery. Herein, we present a case of 34-year-old woman who came to our hospital for medical help due to cough and sputum for one month. She underwent a chest computed tomography (CT) scan which revealed a circular soft tissue density shadow in the upper lobe of the left lung. A needle biopsy was subsequently performed which revealed a probable lung carcinoid. To further evaluate the nature of the mass and determine a treatment plan, the patient subsequently underwent dual nuclide tracer including fluorine-18 labeled fluorodeoxyglucose (18F-FDG) and gallium-68 labeled 1, 4, 7, 10-tetraazacyclododecane-1, 4, 7,10-tetraaceticacid -D-Phel-Tyr3-Thr8-OC (68Ga-DOTATATE) PET/CT imaging. The results showed that the lession presented increased both 18F-FDG and 68Ga-DOTATATE uptake, suggesting a neuroendocrine tumor. However, postoperative pathology confirmed that the lesion was PSP. Our case study suggests that PSP may presents varying degrees of increased 18F-FDG and 68Ga-DOTATATE uptake on positron emission tomography (PET)/CT imaging, which should be considered as one of the differential diagnoses for lung carcinoids.
Updated review on novel therapies and ongoing clinical trials for high-risk non-muscle invasive bladder cancer
Authors: Wiesen Brett , Hargis Paige , Flores Hunter , Kukreja Janet
Published: February 2025

Purpose of review

The treatment options for high-risk non-muscle invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC), particularly in the setting of BCG-unresponsive disease, remain limited. We provide updates on recent, promising trials for high-risk NMIBC and newly FDA approved therapies.

Recent findings

Several therapies with diverse mechanisms of action have shown favorable results in both BCG-naïve and BCG-unresponsive settings for NMIBC. These treatments include intravenous and intravesical immunotherapies, viral- and bacterial-based intravesical therapies, combination intravesical chemotherapy regimens, and novel methods of intravesical chemotherapy administration. Overall, the efficacy and tolerability of these emerging treatments for NMIBC appear promising, offering potential alternatives to radical cystectomy. There have also been recent FDA approvals for novel combination therapy for NMIBC which have been detailed below.

As the landscape of managing BCG-unresponsive disease evolves, clinical trials will continue to expand the treatment options available for NMIBC.
Prognostic significance of the inhibitory-to-stimulatory immune checkpoint ratio in patients with breast cancer
Authors: Tang Chuangang , Hu Xiang , Hao Dawei , Chen Tao , Wang Pei , Li Changwen , Chen Chengling , Li Yongcheng , Hao Xiaowen , Yuan Zeng
Published: February 2025

Background

Accumulating evidences suggested that immune checkpoints (ICPs) played an important role in malignancies including breast cancer (BRCA). We aimed to investigate whether inhibitory-to-stimulatory immune checkpoint ratio (ISICPR) could be used as a prognostic marker for BRCA.

Methods

BRCA patients were enrolled from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA). Survival analysis was performed with Kaplan-Meier (KM) methods. X-tile was used to calculate the optimal cut-off values of ISICPRs. Univariate and multivariate Cox regression analysis were carried out to identify prognostic factors for BRCA patients. Tissue microarray was used to validate our findings.

Results

In total, 586 BRCA patients were collected, including 104 cases of stage I, 330 of stage II, 139 of stage III, and 13 of stage IV. Univariate analysis showed that four ISICPRs (PDCD1/CD27 ratio, PDCD1/TNFSF4 ratio, IDO1/TMIGD2 ratio, and IDO1/TNFSF4 ratio) were significantly associated with the survival of BRCA patients. After adjusting for confounders, multivariate analysis indicated that only the IDO1/TMIGD2 ratio was an independent prognostic factor. The optimal cut-off values for the IDO1/TMIGD2 ratio were set at 4.4 and 6.3. Survival analysis indicated that the high-ratio group (ratio > 6.3) had a worse prognosis than both the low-ratio (ratio < 4.4) and medium-ratio group (4.4 < ratio < 6.3) (P < 0.001), which was further validated by BRCA tissue microarray.

Conclusions

We found that IDO1/TMIGD2 ratio was an independent prognostic factor for BRCA. On one hand, dual targeting of IDO1 and TMIGD2 may be a more effective therapeutic strategy for patients with a high IDO1/TMIGD2 ratio. On the other hand, ISICPR was a promising indicator with high clinical values and worthy of further promotion in other cancers.
Ubiquitin specific protease 7 is a potential therapeutic target for gastric cancer
Authors: Wang Zhi-Ru , Kang Wen-Ting , Yu Rui-Li
Published: February 2025

Introduction

As a deubiquitinase, ubiquitin-specific protease 7 (USP7) plays a vital role in diverse cancers, nevertheless, its role in gastric cancer (GC), which is the fifth leading cause of death in diverse cancers worldwide, has rarely been reported.

Methods

To gain a comprehensive understanding about USP7 in the progression of GC, 287 paired GC tissues were collected and analyzed. ShRNA and small molecular inhibitor were used to investigate the impact of USP7 on cell proliferation. Additionally, xenograft proliferation was used to explore the effect of USP7 on tumor growth in animals.

Results

We found that USP7 overexpression in GC tissues was correlated with several parameters of clinicopathology and poor disease-free survival rate. Meanwhile, the abrogation of USP7 suppressed GC cell proliferation by stabilizing p53 and promoting cell cycle arrest both in vitro and in vivo.

Discussion

These results indicate that USP7 may serve as a biomarker for predicting the outcomes of patients with GC. Therefore, USP7 could be a promising therapeutic target for GC treatment.
Impacts of Chinese national centralized volume-based procurement policy targeting meropenem on prescription of designated antimicrobials for inpatients: an interrupted time series analysis
Authors: Lin Zhi-Hang , Wang Can-Ming , Cai Li-Li
Published: February 2025

Objectives

A national centralized volume-based procurement policy (NCVBPP) targeting meropenem has been implemented in China since December 2022. Here, the effects of the meropenem NCVBPP upon the prescription of designated antimicrobials for inpatients were explored.

Methods

The impacts of the meropenem NCVBPP on the consumption of and expenditures for designated antimicrobials prescribed for inpatients were evaluated by means of an interrupted time series analysis (ITSA) using both an autoregressive integrated moving average (ARIMA) model and a segmented regression model. The designated antimicrobials consisted of carbapenem-type antimicrobials and carbapenem-replaced antimicrobials; the latter referred specifically to combinations of penicillins/cephalosporins with beta-lactamase inhibitors and cephamycins. Data on the consumption of and expenditures for designated antimicrobials used in the inpatient sector of our hospital during the period ranging from January 2020 to March 2024 were collected and subjected to an ITSA.

Results

The meropenem NCVBPP boosted the consumption of meropenem (generic drug and original counterpart); however, neither the total consumption of carbapenem-type antimicrobials nor that of carbapenem-replaced antimicrobials was affected by the meropenem NCVBPP. On the other hand, the meropenem NCVBPP significantly decreased the expenditures on meropenem. Its impacts on the total expenditures for carbapenem-type antimicrobials were unknown. Although a transient increase in the expenditures for carbapenem-replaced antimicrobials and a reduction in the overall expenditures for carbapenem-type antimicrobials plus carbapenem-replaced antimicrobials were also observed following the meropenem NCVBPP, these results were not necessarily caused by the meropenem NCVBPP.

Conclusion

The meropenem NCVBPP triggers increased consumption of but reduced expenditures for meropenem. It has no effects on either the overall consumption of carbapenems or carbapenem-replaced antimicrobials.
Characteristics and needs of physical and mental health among older adult individuals with disabilities under the background of smart healthcare: according to data from the China family panel studies
Authors: Zou Qianlingzi , Guan Xin , Cao Xiaojing , Gu Huangying , Wang Caimeng , Ming Xin , Li Rongyong
Published: February 2025

Objective

This study aimed to utilize data from the China family panel studies (CFPS) to systematically analyze the physical and mental health characteristics and needs of older adult individuals with disabilities under the context of smart healthcare, aiming to provide scientific evidence for relevant policy formulation.

Methods

Data were derived from the CFPS surveys conducted by Peking University’s China Social Sciences between 2021 and 2022. Older adult individuals aged 65 and above requiring assistance in activities of daily living (ADL) or instrumental activities of daily living (IADL) were included. Descriptive statistics, univariate analysis, and multivariate analysis were employed to analyze the basic characteristics, physical and mental health status, influencing factors, and corresponding needs of older adult individuals with disabilities.

Results

Samples aged between 65 and 80, widowed or divorced, demonstrated higher physical health scores (p < 0.05); samples with education at college level or above, residing in urban areas, free from chronic diseases, with annual income exceeding 100,000 RMB, receiving daily family support, frequently accessing community services, and regularly using smart medical devices exhibited greatly higher levels of physical health, mental health, and overall scores on the short form health survey (SF-36) (p < 0.05). Factors such as younger age, absence of chronic diseases, higher economic status, daily family support, frequent access to community services, and regular use of smart medical devices exerted favorable effects on the physical health status of older adult individuals with disabilities (p < 0.05); absence of chronic diseases, urban residence, higher economic status, daily family support, and frequent access to community services were found to positively influence the mental health status of older adult individuals with disabilities (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

The physical and mental health status of older adult individuals with disabilities is influenced by various factors, including social support, economic conditions, and utilization of medical resources. These factors constitute significant determinants in improving the physical and mental health of older adult individuals with disabilities and represent key needs for their betterment.
Associations between blood ethylene oxide levels and serum neurofilament light chain concentrations in adults: evidence from the NHANES
Authors: Li Shikun , Li Wenchen , Liu Jis Huang , Ma Jing , Juan Yan , Chen Bo
Published: February 2025

Background

Ethylene oxide (EO) is a widely used industrial chemical recognized for its health risks, potentially posing threats to human health, including neurotoxicity, cardiovascular damage, and carcinogenic effects. Neurofilament light chain (NfL) is a protein released into the blood following axonal damage. To date, no studies have investigated the relationship between EO exposure and NfL levels. Therefore, we selected 5,902,013–2014 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) participants to examine the relationship between blood EO levels and serum NfL concentrations.

Methods

According to the data from NHANES, this cross-sectional study used multiple regression analysis, subgroup analysis, and smooth curve fitting to explore the relationship between Ethylene oxide and Neurofilament light chain.

Results

The results of the present study indicate a positive association between EO exposure and NfL concentrations. Greater EO exposure was correlated with increased serum NfL concentrations in the fully adjusted model [β = 0.28, 95% CI (0.16, 0.40)]. Each additional unit of EO exposure was linked to a 0.28-unit increase in the serum NfL level. Additionally, IN sensitivity analysis by changing EO exposure from a continuous variable to a categorical variable. The serum NfL concentrations increased with increasing tertiles of EO levels. Compared with the lowest tertile, the highest EO exposure tertile was associated with a 0.28-unit increase in serum NfL concentrations (β = 0.28, 95% CI 0.16, 0.40; P for trend = 0.0138).

Conclusion

Our results indicate a link between increased EO levels and higher serum NfL concentrations in a sample of US adults aged 20 years and older. Although the directionality and clinical significance of this observation remain uncertain, our results emphasize the importance of conducting additional studies to investigate the possible causes and neurological effects of exposure to EO in adults.
Global health inequities in retinoblastoma: a 1990–2021 analysis across socio-demographic index regions
Authors: Li Xi , Chang Ying , Zhao Xiaoyu , Liu Xi , Zhang Ying , Wang Xuan , Li Junhong
Published: February 2025

Objective

To assess health inequities associated with retinoblastoma across various Socio-Demographic Index (SDI) regions and evaluate whether these inequities have decreased from 1990 to 2021, with the aim of enhancing awareness and guiding government policies.

Design

Population-based demographic analysis.

Participants

Children diagnosed with retinoblastoma from 204 countries and territories.

Methods

The estimates and their 95% uncertainty interval (UI) for disability-adjusted life-years (DALYs) of retinoblastoma were extracted from Global Burden of Disease study (GBD) 2021. The age-standardized DALYs and the average annual percentage change (AAPC) were evaluated.

Main measures

The Slope Index of Inequality (SII) and concentration index were computed to quantify the absolute and relative cross-national health inequality.

Results

All SDI regions and the majority of countries experienced a significant decline in age-standardized DALYs from 1990 to 2021. The decrease was more rapid in middle to high SDI regions than in low to low-middle SDI regions. Globally, the 2–4 years age group had the highest DALYs rate, consistent with trends in low to middle SDI regions. In contrast, the highest DALYs rate in high and high-middle SDI regions was found in the 12–23 months age group. The SII was −40.81 (95% CI −36.04 to −45.58) DALYs per 100,000 population in 1990 and − 30.32 (95% CI −27.18 to −33.47) DALYs per 100,000 population in 2021. The concentration index increased from −0.37 (95% CI −0.46 to −0.28) in 1990 to −0.45 (95% CI −0.53 to −0.36) in 2021, although this increase did not reach statistical significance (p = 0.256).

Conclusion

Despite advancements in retinoblastoma management, the overall burden of the disease-related DALY remains disproportionately concentrated in poorer populations. The health inequalities are persisting and widening. This underscores the limitations of current efforts. Until progress benefits everyone, the vision of equitable healthcare remains imperfect.
Impact of action observation therapy on motor and cognitive outcomes in older adults with mild cognitive impairment: a randomized controlled study
Authors: Martin-Blazquez Miriam , Sosa-Reina M. Dolores , Andrade-Granda Angye Micaela , Sanz-Esteban Ismael , López-Ruiz Javier , Estrada Barranco Cecilia
Published: February 2025

Background

Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) affects both cognitive and motor function, increasing the risk of immobility, falls, and compromising independence. The aim of this study is to determine whether implementing Action Observation Therapy (AOT) in a population with MCI would yield positive outcomes in cognitive status, in activities of daily living (ADLs), upper limb (UL) functionality, gait and balance, and if these results differ based on the observation modality employed.

Methods

Thirty participants, aged 65 and above with MCI, were assigned to three groups: therapist observation group (TOG), peer observation group (POG), and control group (CG). The intervention comprised physical and cognitive exercises over 5 weeks, with assessments before and after.

Results

significant differences in post-intervention improvement were found between the groups, excluding the Box and block test. No significant differences were found between the TOG and POG in any improvement variable. Significant differences were found between the CG and the observation groups.

Conclusions

The intervention with AOT proved beneficial for individuals with MCI, yielding significant results both when observing the therapist and when observing a peer compared to the CG, in the domains: cognition, ADLs, gait and balance.