bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A validated score to predict risk of severe weight loss in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
Authors: Lester David G , Talbot Kevin , Turner Martin R , Thompson Alexander G
Published: November 2024

Background
Severe weight loss is common in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and associated with shortened survival. The ability to predict risk of severe weight loss from baseline clinical variables would enable targeted nutritional support.
Methods
This retrospective longitudinal clinical cohort study used data from a multi-centre ALS clinical trials repository (N=3,289 patients) to develop time-to-≥10% weight loss Cox proportional hazards and random survival forest models, which were then tested in validation data from a multi-centre ALS clinical resource (N=298) and a referral-based regional clinic (N=104). Predictor variables were recorded at time of first weight measurement: age, gender, time from symptom onset, diagnostic latency, onset site, body mass index, forced vital capacity (FVC), and Revised ALS Functional Rating Scale (ALSFRS-R) subscores. The most important variables from the most accurate model were used to create a simple weight loss risk score.
Results
The random survival forest outperformed the Cox proportional hazards model in validation data (concordance index=0.67). The two most important variables from the random survival forest– ALSFRS-R bulbar subscore and FVC– were used to create a weight loss risk score that categorised patients using these two baseline clinical variables into low (score=0), intermediate (score=1) and high (score=2) risk of ≥10% weight loss. Analysis of weight loss risk score as a continuous parameter by Cox regression in validation data demonstrated a significantly increased risk of severe weight loss with each point increase (HR 1.83, 95% CI 1.44-2.32, p<0.01).
Conclusions
Weight loss in ALS is associated with a combination of bulbar and respiratory dysfunction. A simple score identifies risk of severe weight loss for potentially more targeted support.
A Novel Technique- Subendometrial Autologous Platelet Rich Plasma Injection in Patients with Unresponsive Thin Endometrium Undergoing Frozen-Thawed Embryo Transfer: A prospective cohort study.
Authors: Cakiroglu Yigit , Tohma Yusuf Aytac , Yuceturk Aysen , Karaosmanoglu Ozge , Aslan İlke Ozer , Kopuk Sule Yildirim , Korun Zeynep Ece Utkan , Yazicioglu Caglar , Zeyneloglu Hulusi Bulent , Tiras Bulent
Published: November 2024

Background: The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of subendometrial PRP injection on endometrial thickness and pregnancy outcomes in patients with a history of unresponsive thin endometrium undergoing frozen-thawed embryo transfer (FET). Methods: This prospective cohort study was conducted at a Acibadem Mehmet Ali Aydinlar University-Istanbul, Turkey. Women with a history of suboptimal endometrial proliferation (< 7 mm) were offered to participate in the study. Those who accepted subendometrial PRP injection formed Group 1 (n = 100); those who did not accept PRP injection formed the control group (Group 2; n = 100). Autologous PRP was prepared by centrifugation from peripheral blood and was injected transvaginally into the subendometrial region under ultrasound guidance within 10 days of the cessation of the menstruation. On the 2-4th days of the second menstrual cycle after the PRP procedure, hormonal treatment was initiated with 14 days of oral estradiol supplementation. Embryo transfer was scheduled for women who were found to have adequate endometrial thickness after the initiation of progesterone. Pregnancy (positive serum hCG) and livebirth rates were followed.
Results
A total of 200 women (age 36.4 ± 5.8) were included in the study. PRP treatment resulted in higher endometrial thickness compared to the control group (7.7 ± 1.9 mm vs 6.1 ± 1.2 mm; p < 0.01). In the PRP group, 3 women (3.0%) conceived spontaneously and 97 (97.0%) attempted FET; in the control group there were no spontaneous pregnancies. In the PRP group, 33/97 women (34.0% of total) could not undergo ET due to persistent unresponsive thin endometrium or fluid in the endometrial cavity, compared to 75/100 (75% of total) in controls (p < 0.001). Positive serum hCG test was significantly higher in the PRP group compared to the control group (25.8% vs 9.0%; p = 0.002). Clinical pregnancy rate was also higher in the PRP group (22.7% vs. 7.0%; p = 0.002). Live birth rate was significantly higher in the PRP group compared to the controls (17.5% vs. 2.0%; p < 0.001).
Conclusions
In women with a history of suboptimal endometrial development, subendometrial PRP injection was associated with improved endometrial thickness and livebirth rate. Trial registration: Acibadem Mehmet Ali Aydinlar University institutional review board and ethics committee (KA-20/23) http://www.Clinicaltrials.gov , (NCT04424160), 2020.06.15
Comparison of K-wires and adjustable external fixation after closed osteotomy in the treatment for cubitus varus in children
Authors: Yao Jia Qi , Du Ying Jie , Ji Feng Kun , Chen Hui , Wang Zhen Dong , Liu Li , Zhou Hui Xia , Li Wen Chao
Published: November 2024

Background
Cubitus varus deformity is commonly regarded as a late complication of supracondylar humeral fractures in children. This retrospective study aimed to compare the outcomes of K-wires and adjustable external fixation in the treatment of cubitus varus deformity.
Methods
The study included 26 patients with cubitus varus deformities secondary to supracondylar fractures between January 2016 and December 2023. All patients were treated with closed osteotomy and K-wire fixation (n = 14) or adjustable external fixation (n = 12). Clinical data, including carrying angle, vascular and neurologic examination, and range of elbow motion, were recorded and analyzed. Functional outcomes were assessed using the Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MEPS) and Bellemore criteria at the last follow-up.
Results
The average follow-up period was 14.91 months for the K-wire group and 16.14 months for the external fixation group. There were no significant differences in age, gender, mean surgery time, mean union time, carrying angle, or arc of motion between the two groups (P>0.05). No cases of nonunion, myositis ossificans, or recurrence of deformity were observed at the last follow-up. The mean union time for cubitus varus deformity was 7.83 ± 1.19 weeks in the external fixation group and 8.85 ± 1.02 weeks in the K-wire group, with a significant difference in union time following closed osteotomy (P = 0.0271). However, there was no statistically significant difference in functional outcomes between the two groups according to the MEPS (P>0.05).
Conclusions
Both K-wires and external fixation following closed osteotomy are effective for treating cubitus varus deformity in children. Adjustable external fixation increases compression at the osteotomy site, promoting faster union and providing stability in the lateral cortex, which reduces the risk of injury to the cubital nerve compared to K-wires. Additionally, the hinge of the external fixation can be adjusted to maintain the correct angle of the distal articular surface of the humerus.
Evolution of Music Therapy in Surgical Practice: A Bibliometric Analysis of Global Research Trends (2009–2023)
Authors: Xu Xiaoping , Zhong Zhenglan , Yi Yong
Published: November 2024

Music therapy, leveraging the profound influence of music on human emotions and physiology, has gained attention for its potential applications in medical settings, particularly in surgery. This study aims to conduct a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of music therapy's application in surgery. Publications related to application of music therapy in surgery from 2009 to 2023 were searched in the Web of Science Core Collection (WoSCC) databases. Bibliometric analysis was conducted using VOSviewer, CiteSpace, Microsoft Excel, and online bibliometrics websites. This study included 479 publications, with a steady increase in annual publications since 2009, peaking in 2021. The USA had the highest number of publications (n = 152, 31.7%), followed by China (85, 17.7%) and Italy (48, 10%). Harvard University emerged as the top research institution, while the Journal of Perianesthesia Nursing was the primary publishing journal, and the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews was the highest co-cited journal. Cao Hua had the highest number of studies, and Nilsson U (n = 131) was identified as the most co-cited author. Keyword analysis revealed anxiety, therapy, music therapy, and pain as primary research trends in recent years. This bibliometric study provides a comprehensive summary of the existing research landscape, highlighting progress, challenges, and opportunities in integrating music therapy into surgical practice.
Cultural adaption of evidence-based practice strategies to reduce opioid overdose deaths: Examples and lessons from the HEALing Communities Study
Authors: Gibson Erin B. , Glasgow LaShawn , Nouvong Monica , McGladrey Margaret , Freedman Darcy , Chassler Deborah , Vickers-Smith Rachel , D’Onfro Madeline , Goddard-Eckrich Dawn A , Hunt Timothy , Chatterjee Avik , Holloway JaNae , Fain Katie , Cruz Rachel Sword , Martinez Linda Sprague
Published: November 2024

Addressing the opioid overdose crisis requires both increasing the adoption of evidence-based practices (EBPs) and ensuring that EBPs reach individuals at high risk for opioid overdose death and population groups disproportionately burdened by fatal overdose. It is important to culturally adapt EBP strategies to reach these populations and to monitor the impact of these strategies.
The HEALing Communities Study engaged coalitions in 67 communities across four states in the Communities That HEAL intervention to select and implement EBPs to reduce opioid overdose mortality. Coalitions were encouraged, but not required, to culturally adapt strategies for “special populations.” EBP strategies were documented in coalition action plans.
The research team developed a data collection tool to capture quantitative and qualitative details from coalitions’ action plans. A standard operation procedure provided guidance on how to characterize cultural adaptations to reach special populations. Following the first wave of the intervention (January 2020 – June 2022), the research team utilized the DATA (Describe, Analyze, Theorize, and ACT) model for reflective practice in evaluation. Authors met to Describe efforts to reach special populations and each site’s approach to Analyzequantitative and qualitative data; to Theorize about how to improve data collection; and to identify Actions to better develop and document EBP cultural adaptation strategies in future studies.
This manuscript presents examples of culturally adaptedEBP strategies designed to address the needs of multiple special populations in the first wave of the HEALing Communities Study. We share lessons and practical tips for designing, documenting, and monitoring cultural adaptation strategies.
ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT04111939. Date of registration 10/01/2019.
Tarnishing and Pitting Corrosion Mechanism Revealed by Nanoparticles on the Gold Foil of Western Han Dynasty in Taiyuan, Shanxi, China through a Multi-analytical Approach
Authors: Gong Zisang , Sun Siyuan , Hu Pei , Pei Jingrong , Hu Gang
Published: November 2024

To figure out optical and corrosion mechanism of tarnishing and pitting corrosion of the archaeological gold foil, ESEM-EDS, XRD, XPS were used to obtain chemical composition of different depths and observe surface topography. The results show Ag is enriched on the surface, mainly as Ag2O nanoparticles, and Au is enriched internally due to the selective corrosion of Ag. Optical mechanism of gold tarnishing is surface plasmon resonance (SPR) of Ag2O nanoparticles. The colour darkens as nanoparticle size increases. Flaming in the atmosphere results in accelerated oxidation of Ag and edge-off, leading to electrochemical crevice, pitting corrosion and perforation during burial.
High-energy and long-life O3-type layered cathode material for sodium-ion batteries
Authors: Sun Yang-Kook , Liang Xinghui , Song Xiaosheng , Sun H. Hohyun , Kim Hun , Kim Myoung-Chan
Published: November 2024

O3-type cathodes for sodium-ion batteries have attracted significant attention owning to their low cost and high energy density. However, their applications are restricted by rapid capacity degradation during long-term cycling, with uneven Na+ distribution and microcrack formation being key contributing factors. In this study, a customized reconstruction layer integrating a fast ion conductor NaCaPO4 coating with gradient Ca2+ doping was developed to enhance the surface chemical and mechanical stability of the layered cathodes. The gradient Ca2+ doped interphase facilitated uniform phase transformation within the particles, minimized lattice mismatch, ensured even Na+ distribution, and mitigated microcrack formation through a pinning effect. Consequently, the optimized cathode delivered excellent rate performance (105.3 mAh g− 1 at 10 C), long-term cycling stability (81.0% capacity retention after 300 cycles at 0.5 C), and robust reliability under high-voltage conditions and across a wide operating temperature range (− 10 to 50°C). The practical feasibility of a pouch-type Na-ion full cell paired with a hard carbon anode was demonstrated by a high capacity retention of 82.9% after 300 cycles at 1 C. This scalable interface modification strategy can provide valuable insights into the development of advanced oxide cathode materials for sodium-ion batteries.
A MILP model for a large scale fully renewable integrated energy system with hydrogen storage
Authors: Li Ryan , Bastarrica Felipe , Luo Linhao , Mak-Hau Vicky
Published: November 2024

Integrated Energy Systems (IESs) with hydrogen storage typically generate a large amount of data when the time resolution is high and the planning horizon is long. Making use of the nature of data in the case study provided by the 16th AIMMS-MOPTA competition, a full and a compact version of a Mixed Integer Linear Programming (MILP) model were formulated with an objective of minimizing the total investment cost of the system components. The full and compact models were tested with different time-slot aggregations, finding that the latter provided a significant computational improvement over the former. Taking advantage of the computational efficiency of the compact model, we analyzed the trade-offs of the resources by applying different upper bounds to the power generation capacities. Furthermore, we introduced a stochastic approach to account for the intermittency of wind and solar resources. The optimal system produced by our method is capable of supplying electricity and hydrogen demand of the case study at a minimum cost with a realistic security of supply level.
Blockchain Solutions for Global Adoption Systems: Enhancing Transparency, Security, and Support for Adoptive Families and Children’s Rights
Authors: Anbari Mahdi , Rahman Mohd Nazri Bin Abdul
Published: November 2024

Objective
This study explores blockchain technology’s potential to address key challenges in global adoption systems, including bureaucratic inefficiencies, documentation issues, data privacy concerns, and gaps in postadoption support. It evaluates blockchain’s capacity to enhance transparency, security, and accountability in adoption processes.
Methods
This exploratory design combines qualitative data from a phenomenological study of Iranian adoptive families with findings from a systematic review of adoptees' behavioral challenges. The blockchain’s core features—immutability, smart contracts, and self-sovereign identity—are analyzed for their capacity to address legal, privacy, and postadoption support issues in adoption systems.
Results
Blockchain provides immutable adoption records, preventing document tampering and enhancing trust and transparency. Its encryption protocols ensure that sensitive data are secure and accessible only to authorized individuals. Additionally, smart contracts can automate legal agreements and track postadoption services, ensuring accountability and reducing delays in providing essential counseling and healthcare.
Conclusion
Blockchain technology offers a novel solution to systemic issues in adoption systems by improving transparency, safeguarding data privacy, and ensuring consistent postadoption support. Future research should focus on real-world applications and address ethical considerations surrounding data protection and adoptee rights.
The effects of child marriages on academic performance of marginalized girls in Secondary Schools of Central Province in Zambia
Authors: Sharper Sikota , Evans Chikumbe Sanhkwa , Mwiya Mufalali Simasiku , Bowa Mwila
Published: November 2024

Zambia's education sector faces significant challenges, particularly for female students who are affected by poverty, cultural attitudes, and early marriage. Despite efforts to improve educational access, many girls struggle with enrollment and academic performance. This study aimed to analyze the effects of child marriages on the academic performance of marginalized girls in Secondary Schools in selected secondary schools in the Central Province of Zambia. Adopting a phenomenological approach, the study conducted focus group discussions and interviews with key stakeholders, including marginalized girls, out-of-school girls, school staff, and community leaders. Thematic analysis of qualitative data, collected through structured notes and NVivo software, was used to explore participants' lived experiences and perspectives. The findings indicated that sponsorship initiatives help reduce dropout rates, increase access to education for girls, and improve child safety in schools and communities. Nonetheless, challenges such as poverty, cultural attitudes, inadequate parental support, early marriage, and restrictive gender norms are prevalent. The intricate interplay of poverty, socio-cultural norms, and enduring gender inequalities poses a significant barrier to educational attainment for marginalized girls. Financial constraints and poverty forces families to prioritize survival over education, leaving girls susceptible to early marriage, school dropout, and risky behaviors as coping mechanisms.
Practical Implementation of Discrete Wavelet Transform-based Sensing using Software Defined Radio
Authors: Yahya Zhraa Zuheir , Ali Dia Mohamad
Published: November 2024

Spectrum sensing techniques are vital in both spectrum utilization and spectrum scarcity solutions. This paper proposes a wide band spectrum sensing method using discrete wavelet transform with Daubechies4 function to distinguish between the primary user spectrum and white spaces. The proposed model is validated through simulation using LabVIEW NXG software. Then, it is practically implemented in real-time and in a real environment using a universal software-defined radio peripheral (USRP) platform, which is a software-defined radio (SDR) at 2 GHz radio frequency. Long-short-term memory (LSTM), a deep learning approach, is used to evaluate the system's performance. Simulation and practical results show the system's efficiency in terms of the probability of detection in additive white Gaussian noise (AWGN) channels at various signal-to-noise ratios (SNRs). Furthermore, the proposed LSTM network achieves 99% classification accuracy.
Analysis of Postoperative Atrial Fibrillation and Its Associated Factors in Morrow Procedures with Cardiopulmonary Bypass
Authors: Hu Zhibin , Mao Wenshuai , Guo Lijun , Liu Zhiwei , Hu Xujie , Cui Yong
Published: November 2024

Background
The factors influencing the onset of new atrial fibrillation following the Morrow procedure due to cardiopulmonary bypass are unclear. This study investigated the cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB)-related factors associated with postoperative atrial fibrillation (POAF) in patients undergoing minimally invasive ventricular septal myectomy (Morrow procedure) to optimize CPB strategies, reduce the incidence of POAF, and enhance recovery.
Methods
A retrospective clinical data analysis was conducted on 139 patients who underwent minimally invasive Morrow procedures from January to December 2023. The patients were divided into two groups based on whether they developed new-onset atrial fibrillation after surgery, and a comparative study was performed. Multivariate regression analysis and other statistical methods were used to assess factors potentially influencing POAF during CPB.
Results
Fifty (35.97%) patients developed POAF. Comparisons between the POAF group and the non-POAF group revealed significant differences in preoperative hypertension (38.0% vs. 14.6%, p = 0.002), coronary artery disease (40.0% vs. 20.2%, p = 0.012), history of heart failure (44.0% vs. 22.5%, p = 0.008), age (55.16 ± 14.11 vs. 46.28 ± 14.55, p = 0.001), the preoperative systemic immune-inflammation index (SII) (418.26 ± 243.97 vs. 330.24 ± 152.89, p = 0.016), the left atrial volume index (LAVI) (36.79 ± 12.08 vs. 32.24 ± 10.78, p = 0.024), CPB time (129.80 ± 39.58 vs. 116.96 ± 28.80, p = 0.035), CPB weaning time (25.68 ± 22.56 vs. 19.49 ± 6.78, p = 0.021), re-CPB rate (14.0% vs. 3.4%, p = 0.020), rate of ultrafast-track cardiac anaesthesia (UFTCA) (78.0% vs. 98.9%, p = 0.000), and postoperative SII (3292.84 ± 2921.82 vs. 2312.09 ± 1584.15, p = 0.024) (P < 0.05). All patients were discharged, but the ICU (2.07 ± 2.91 vs. 1.38 ± 0.78, p = 0.046) and postoperative hospital stays (11.84 ± 7.50 vs. 9.13 ± 2.62, p = 0.002) were significantly prolonged. Age is an independent risk factor for POAF, and the UFTCA is an independent protective factor (p < 0.001). POAF occurrence is closely related to preoperative hypertension (OR = 3.777, 95% CI: 1.599–8.920), a history of heart failure (OR = 2.858, 95% CI: 1.294–6.313), LAVI (OR = 1.035, 95% CI: 1.002–1.069), CPB weaning time (OR = 1.051, 95% CI: 1.001–1.103), re-CPB (OR = 5.035, 95% CI: 1.169–21.840), and postoperative SII (OR = 1.000, 95% CI: 1.000-1.001) (p < 0.05).
Conclusion
UFTCA is an independent protective factor against POAF. CPB weaning time and re-CPB are risk factors for the occurrence of POAF after the Morrow procedure. Actively implementing UFTCA, shortening the CPB weaning time, and avoiding the re-CPB are expected to lower the risk of POAF, shortening the ICU and hospital stays and enhancing recovery.
The Relationship Between Physiological Risk Factors and Stroke: A Mendelian Randomization Study
Authors: Fan Li , wang suzhen
Published: November 2024

Objective: Physiological risk factors play a crucial role in stroke development and prognosis. However, traditional epidemiological research methods cannot clearly establish a causal relationship between the physiological risk factors and stroke. Mendelian Randomization (MR) has recently emerged as a method of
studying causal relationships. This study used a two-sample MR to explore the causal relationship between
physiological risk factors and stroke.
Methods: The four most commonly used MR methods were used in this analysis. All statistical analyses were performed using the "TwoSampleMR 0.5.7" package in R. The outcome variable was stroke (ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke), and the exposure factors were the five common physiological risk factors analyzed in the 2019 GBD study, including body mass index, fasting blood glucose, systolic blood pressure, LDL cholesterol, and renal dysfunction. The instrumental variables were genetic loci associated with ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke as derived from GWAS studies.
Results: The results showed that there was a significant causal association between body mass index and ischemic stroke (OR = 1.21, 95% CI: 1.14~1.30, P = 3.55×10^-5), systolic blood pressure (OR = 1.61.04, 95% CI: 1.50~1.74, P = 8.26 Ã–10^-36), and cholesterol (OR = 1.71, 95% CI: 1.12~2.62, P = 1.26×10^-6) with significant causal associations. There was also a significant causal association between body mass index and hemorrhagic stroke (OR = 1.45, 95% CI: 1.23~1.71, P = 1.27 × 10^-5), and systolic blood pressure (OR = 1.65, 95% CI: 1.38~1.97, P = 2.84 × 10^-8).
Conclusion: Genetic variation-predicted physiological risk factor indicators, such as body mass index, systolic blood pressure, and cholesterol, were significantly associated with an increased risk of ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke and significantly increased the risk of stroke. Additionally, cholesterol is significantly associated with an increased risk of ischemic stroke but not with an increased risk of hemorrhagic stroke. Early detection and active management of body mass index, systolic blood pressure, and cholesterol are crucial for stroke prevention and prognosis and are important measures for preventing and controlling stroke. These risk factors can be effectively controlled by adjusting lifestyle and medical treatment, thereby reducing the risk of stroke.
Wide-row cereal cultivation as a tool to promote brown hare (Lepus europaeus) populations: a performance assessment
Authors: Weber Darius , Roth Tobias
Published: November 2024

For pre-weaning leverets (Lepus europaeus), cereals are low risk crops because predators rarely hunt there and agricultural machinery is only used once during the harvest. However, the dense stand of cereals hinders hares to enter from May until harvest in July, the months with the highest numbers of leverets. Making cereal fields accessible to hares in spring and summer by sewing them in wider rows than usual may improve the survival of young hares and thus could increase hare populations. Here, we assessed the impact of a recent change in cereal cultivation that has been introduced in Switzerland specifically to promote brown hares: the cultivation of cereals in wide rows. We surveyed hare densities between spring and autumn and assessed whether the seasonal increase in density (i.e. the hare population growth rate) depended on the proportion of cereals in wide rows, arable land, cereals and fallow land as well as on hare density in spring using mixed linear models. A total of 32 study areas with an average size of 376 ha were surveyed. Of the four land-use variables, only the proportion of cereals in wide rows had a significant positive effect (p = 0.02) on the hare population growth rate. A 1% increase in cereals in wide rows results in an average increase in hare growth rate of 3.6%. This effect was weaker in areas with a high hare density in spring. We conclude that cereals in wide rows is a useful tool to increase brown hare densities.
Optimization of High-Rise Building Retrofitting Against Wind Loads
Authors: Samir Rania , Abdel-Hameed Mohamed , Eraky Atef , Salama Abdallah
Published: November 2024

As the height of any structure increases, it becomes slenderer and more sensitive to wind loads. So, any increase in the structure height that was not considered during the initial stages of the design process will cause many structural issues. For such a problem, structural retrofitting is suggested to resist wind loads and satisfy safety and serviceability requirements. The strategy of retrofitting includes adding structural steel wind-resisting systems in the openings of the structural plan. This paper proposes an optimization technique for steel systems used to retrofit high-rise buildings, which aims to reduce the weight of the steel system keeping the building meeting the constraints of lateral displacement at the top of the building using Genetic Algorithm (GA) as an optimization algorithm. Integrated with CSI ETABS, the Visual Basic application is designed to perform this task. The proposed technique is applied to two cases of reinforced concrete buildings that are vulnerable to wind loads. The first case depicts a sense of consistency within buildings, while the second case exemplifies instances of irregularity in architectural design. Both cases are studied at heights of 15, 18, 21, 24, and 27 stories. The results show that strengthening a building using the optimized steel-braced frame is an efficient technique. The stiffness distribution of the optimum retrofitting system is concluded and formulas describing this distribution are derived.
Age, parental exposure, mass media, and sexual behaviour related to adolescents' level of future readiness in Indonesia
Authors: Rahmadewi Rahmadewi , Ekawati Rindang , Rahayuwati Laili , Nasution Sri Lilestina , Agustina Habsyah Saparidah , Rahayu Endah , Amelia Vira
Published: November 2024

Adolescents are a productive age group that will play an important role in achieving the demographic bonus in Indonesia by 2030. Problems that can be encountered in adolescents include knowledge, attitudes and sexual behaviour related to reproductive health. Their sexual behaviour can reflect their understanding as adolescents regarding their level of future readiness (e.g., long, healthy, happy, prosperous life). This research aims to analyse the relationship between family roles, sexual behaviour and the level of future readiness among adolescents in Indonesia. This research uses secondary data from the 2019 Program Performance and Accountability Survey results from the National Population and Family Planning Agency, the Central Statistics Agency, and universities in 34 provinces in Indonesia. The sample was young men and women aged 10–24 who were unmarried for the last six months and were registered as family members in selected households in Indonesia. Data were analysed using descriptive, bivariate and multivariate analysis with logistic regression. The result showed that the individual factors associated with adolescents' level of future readiness are age group (0.000), gender (0.018), education (0.000), and adolescent reproductive health (ARH) knowledge (0.000). Family factors associated with adolescents' level of future readiness are parental exposure to ARH (0.000) and implementation of family roles (0.000). The environmental factors associated with adolescents' level of future readiness are the source of ARH information through mass media (0.000) and the source of population information through mass media (0.000). Implementing family roles is the most dominant factor influencing adolescents' level of future readiness.
Fabrication and characterization of Curcumin and Piperine loaded CMTG/rGO Electrospun for breast cancer treatment
Authors: Orsu Prabhakar , CH Vasavi
Published: November 2024

The development of multi-drug-loaded electrospun nanocomposites with superior biomimetic properties and controlled release capabilities is critical for advancing breast cancer treatment. In this study, we introduce electrospun nanocomposite fibers composed of reduced graphene oxide (rGO) and carboxymethyl tamarind gum (CMTG), which are coated with curcumin and piperine to achieve targeted and controlled drug delivery at tumor sites. Both rGO and CMTG act as stabilizing agents with potent antioxidant activity and enhanced biocompatibility. The synthesized rGO/CMTG nanocomposite was extensively characterized using functional, crystallographic, and surface morphology analyses, confirming the formation of an amorphous structure. In vitro drug release studies demonstrated the nanocomposite’s high drug loading efficiency and sustained release profile. Additionally, cytotoxicity assays using MDA-MB-231 human breast cancer cells revealed that the rGO/CMTG nanocomposite effectively induced cell death with a favorable IC50 value. These findings suggest that rGO/CMTG nanofiber-based systems hold significant promise as a therapeutic platform for breast cancer treatment.
Exploring iron deposition patterns using light and electron microscopy in the mouse brain across aging and Alzheimer’s disease pathology conditions
Authors: Lau Victor , VanderZwaag Jared , Murray Colin , Tremblay Marie-Ève
Published: November 2024

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) involves cognitive decline, possibly via multiple concurrent pathologies associated with iron accumulation. To investigate if iron accumulation in AD is more likely due to pathological iron-rich compartments, or a compensatory response of iron within oligodendrocytes to disease progression, we sought to quantify iron-rich staining (via Perl’s diaminobenzidine; DAB). Healthy wild-type (WT) and APPSwe-PS1Δe9 (APP-PS1; amyloid-beta overexpressing) male mice were examined during midde-age, at 14 months. The prefrontal cortex, a brain region affected over the course of dementia progression, was investigated. Iron-rich compartments were found across genotypes, including oligodendrocytes, and immune cells at the blood-brain barrier, and exclusively amyloid plaques in the APP-PS1 genotype. A semi-automated approach was employed to quantify staining intensity of iron-rich compartments with light microscopy. Mouse prefrontal cortex of each genotype was also assessed qualitatively and ultrastructurally with scanning electron microscopy, to novelly discern and confirm iron-rich staining (via Perl’s DAB). We found parenchymal iron staining corresponding to oligodendrocytes, pericytes, astrocytes, microglia and/or infiltrating macrophages, and amyloid plaques; increased iron deposition and clustering were detected in middle-aged male APP-PS1 vs WT prefrontal cortex, supporting that AD pathology may involve greater brain iron levels and local clustering. Unexpectedly, iron-rich cells were enriched at the central nervous system (CNS) interface and perivascular space in control and APP-PS1 mouse models, with ultrastructural examination revealing examples of these cells loaded with many secretory granules containing iron. Together, our results provide novel exploration and confirmation of iron-rich cells/compartments in scanning electron microscopy and reinforce literature that iron deposition is relatively increased in AD over healthy cognitive aging and involves greater local clusters of iron burden. Increased iron burden along the aging trajectory, regardless of cognitive status, may also be attributed to novelly-discovered iron-rich cells secreting granules along the CNS border.
Overcoming Recurrent Pregnancy Loss with Advanced Fertility Techniques: A Case Report on Combined Stem Cell Therapy, In-vitro Activation and Lymphocyte immunotherapy
Authors: Patel Niket , Patel Nayana , Patel Molina , Bhadarka Harsha , Ghoghari Paresh , Dhaduk Sachin , Chudasama Piyush , Vyas Kairavi
Published: November 2024

Infertility continues to be one of the most challenging issues that affects a significant number of people worldwide and is often accompanied by advanced maternal age and poor ovarian reserve. These factors also contribute significantly to recurrent miscarriage and secondary infertility. The traditional fertility treatment proves to be a failure in cases where the women have clinically low AMH (anti-Müllerian hormone) levels and multiple miscarriages. Novel therapeutic approaches are required to address such complex case scenarios. A 46-year-old woman with a history of secondary infertility and four miscarriages presented with an AMH level of 0.88. Traditional fertility treatments had previously failed to yield successful outcomes. the patient underwent a combined therapy involving Bone marrow-derived stem cell therapy, laparoscopy and hysteroscopy, lymphocyte immunotherapy (LIT) and in vitro activation. Post-treatment, the woman conceived and delivered a normal baby who previously faced infertility and Recurrent Pregnancy Loss. This case indicates the potential of an innovative combined approach using Bone marrow-derived stem cell therapy, In-vitro Activation and LIT in the treatment of complex fertility problems, especially in women with diminished ovarian reserve and Recurrent Pregnancy Loss.
Machine Learning in Healthcare Citizen Science: A Scoping Review
Authors: Baminiwatte Ranga , Torsu Blessing , Scherbakov Dmitry , Mollalo Abolfazl , Obeid Jihad S. , Alekseyenko Alexander V. , Lenert Leslie A.
Published: November 2024

Objectives: This scoping review aims to clarify the definition and trajectory of citizen-led scientific research (so-called citizen science) within the healthcare domain, examine the degree of integration of machine learning (ML) and the participation levels of citizen scientists in health-related projects.
Materials and Methods: In January and September 2024 we conducted a comprehensive search in PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and EBSCOhost platform for peer-reviewed publications that combine citizen science and machine learning (ML) in healthcare. Articles were excluded if citizens were merely passive data providers or if only professional scientists were involved.
Results: Out of an initial 1,395 screened, 56 articles spanning from 2013 to 2024 met the inclusion criteria. The majority of research projects were conducted in the U.S. (n=20, 35.7%), followed by Germany (n=6, 10.7%), with Spain, Canada, and the UK each contributing three studies (5.4%). Data collection was the primary form of citizen scientist involvement (n=29, 51.8%), which included capturing images, sharing data online, and mailing samples. Data annotation was the next most common activity (n=15, 26.8%), followed by participation in ML model challenges (n=8, 14.3%) and decision-making contributions (n=3, 5.4%). Mosquitoes (n=10, 34.5%) and air pollution samples (n=7, 24.2%) were the main data objects collected by citizens for ML analysis. Classification tasks were the most prevalent ML method (n=30, 52.6%), with Convolutional Neural Networks being the most frequently used algorithm (n=13, 20%).
Discussion and Conclusions: Citizen science in healthcare is currently an American and European construct with growing expansion in Asia. Citizens are contributing data, and labeling data for ML methods, but only infrequently analyzing or leading studies. Projects that use “crowd-sourced” data and “citizen science” should be differentiated depending on the degree of involvement of citizens.
Dynamic Neural Regeneration Mechanisms for Self-Organized Structural Adaptation in Large Language Models
Authors: Embury Stuart , Belmonte Eduardo , MacDonagh Cillian , Villaverde Ignatius
Published: November 2024

The rapid expansion of data-driven applications has demonstrated the limitations inherent in traditional neural network architectures, where static configurations constrain adaptability and impede long-term functionality. The Dynamic Neural Regeneration (DNR) mechanism introduces a groundbreaking approach to structural adaptability, enabling autonomous reconfiguration of neural architectures through a data-responsive regenerative process that recalibrates layers and nodes in real time. Through comprehensive integration within a large language model (LLM), DNR facilitates adaptive structural evolution that aligns model architecture with shifting data distributions, effectively bridging gaps in scalability, robustness, and accuracy. Experimental results demonstrate that the DNR-enabled LLM significantly outperforms conventional static models in metrics such as adaptability, computational efficiency, and accuracy, highlighting its capacity to maintain high performance across diverse and dynamic datasets. This innovation offers notable improvements in computational sustainability, as the model selectively regenerates only those neural components affected by data-driven relevance, thereby optimizing resource allocation without sacrificing model integrity or predictive precision. The findings demonstrate the DNR mechanism as a transformative advancement, offering a scalable, efficient, and self-organizing approach with broad implications for real-world applications that demand long-term adaptability and resilience in evolving data environments.
Identification and Preliminary Functional Analysis of Responsive Genes to Short-term Heat Stress in Lettuce
Authors: He Shuping , Huo Guotao , Ge Guojun , Du Li , Long Du , Luo Lijun , Long Ping , Wei Shiwei
Published: November 2024

Lettuce is a commonly consumed vegetable worldwide, due to its crisp edible organs and rich nutrition. Heat stress is known to seriously threaten its growth and development. However, research on lettuce response to heat stress focusing on molecular aspects is limited. Therefore, we aimed to understand the complex molecular mechanisms underlying the regulation of lettuce plant response to heat stress (37 °C), by transcriptomic analysis of a heat-resistant lettuce variety (K482) following heat stress treatment for 1.5 and 3 days. A total of 3798 and 4121 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified at 1.5 and 3 days vs. the control after heat treatment, respectively; they were mostly enriched in protein processing in the systemic lupus erythematosus, alcoholism, neurotrophin signaling pathways, and the cell cycle. Most DEGs were NACs, HSPs, MYBs, bHLHs, and WRKYs. Transcriptome analysis showed that the NAC domain transcription factor LsNAC28, which is associated with heat response, is up-regulated during heat stress and LsNAC28 inhibited yeast growth under heat stress (37 °C). These findings provide a basis to comprehensively understand the complex molecular mechanism of lettuce response to heat stress.
PET-Recebe: health education in the teaching of parasitology
Authors: PAZ NETA Doralice Conceição da , FREIRE Ingrid da Silva Florêncio , VILA Wesllen David Silva , SILVA Kamylle Cynnara Tavares da , SILVA Rodrigo Ferreira da , ANDRADE Igor Marley Pereira de , SILVA Caroline Paiva da , LIMA Isabela Marques de , ARAÚJO Nayara dos Santos , SOUSA Rutyelle Moreira de Melo , QUEIRES Mariana Santana , SENA Yasmin Vitória Moura de , SANTOS Ana Júlia , AIRES André de Lima
Published: November 2024

Health education is important for building knowledge and modifying behaviors in the school population, as well as contributing to a humanized and ethical academic formation. The PET-Parasitology Group conducts health education activities for high school and elementary students, aiming to fill gaps in the understanding of parasitology teaching. Through theoretical-practical workshops, students were instructed on the biology of parasites, their infections, transmission, prophylaxis, diagnosis, and treatment. The students reported popular knowledge that was addressed scientifically, revealing understanding of the topic and its preventions. The use of effective tools and teaching laboratory infrastructure are crucial for the success of health education actions, highlighting their importance in parasitology teaching and academic formation.
The Risk Genes SIRP5, CMC1, and ASAH1 as Potential Targets for the Diagnosis, Immunotherapy, and Treatment of Colon Adenocarcinoma by Single-Cell and Bulk RNA Sequencing Analysis
Authors: Xu Zipeng , Gong Jiantao , Hu Weidong , Ge Chen , Tong Genxi , Cai Fengjun , Zhu Zhenghai , Yuan Yihang , Chen Chaobo
Published: November 2024

Objective:

Globally, one of the main causes of cancer-related mortality is Colon
Adenocarcinoma (COAD). In this study, a new special Immune Cell Functions (ICF) risk
model was constructed using single-cell and bulk RNA sequencing data to develop a new understanding
and clinical applications for COAD.

Methods:

The immune function gene sets were downloaded from a literature reference, and the
COAD single-cell dataset GSE146771 was downloaded from the Tumour Immune Single Cell
Hub database. Using Lasso analysis, a multiple gene signature was made from the enrichment
scores of immune function gene sets that were enriched in different ways. Robust validation of
the signature was then performed in multiple independent cohorts. After that, we built the model
using a 10-fold cross-test and evaluated its independence for clinical usage using a nomogram.
We also investigated the connection between signature and immune function, genetic variation,
immunotherapy, and the cancer immunological microenvironment. Lastly, we used qPCR and
immunohistochemistry to examine the expression of the unreported model genes. To find the
regulatory functions of unreported model genes, an EdU assay was employed.

Results:

First, 20 differentially enriched immune function gene sets were identified. Ten genes
can be used as a risk profile to assess the prognosis of colon cancer, according to Lasso regression
analysis. Signature performance was stable in both the training cohort and two independent
GEO external cohorts, and risk scores were confirmed as independent prognostic factors.
At the same time, our risk model continued to be highly predictive across various clinical clusters
and clinical characteristics, such as immune checkpoints, tumour genome mutations, and
chemotherapeutic drug resistance. Patients in the low-risk group have exhibited a higher
chance of benefiting from immunotherapy, according to immunotherapy response research.
qPCR and immunohistochemistry analysis have revealed SIRP5 expression as high in COAD
tissues, while CMC1 and ASAH1 expression has been found to be low. According to the findings
of the functional experiment, SIRP5, CMC1, and ASAH1 may control the ability of CRC
cells to proliferate.

Conclusion:

In this study, using scRNA-seq and bulk RNA-seq data, we created a risk model
to predict the prognosis and effectiveness of immunotherapy in patients with COAD. In addition,
we have discovered three model genes (SIRP5, CMC1, and ASAH1) that have not been
reported before. These genes have the potential to be novel therapeutic targets in Colorectal
Cancer (CRC). These findings suggest that this model could be used to evaluate the prognostic
risk and identify potential targets for COAD patient treatment.
Structural Metamorphosis: Rearranging Camphor-based Systems
Authors: Carlos Mariana Falcão Lopes Princisval , Gomes Claudia Regina Brandão , Facchinetti Victor , Souza Marcus Vinicius Nora De
Published: November 2024

Natural compounds are pivotal sources for synthesizing a vast array of biologically active substances
in chemistry. Camphor is one of these substances, and both enantiomers are readily obtainable and play significant
roles in various synthetic and therapeutic applications. This mini-review provides information on a few
synthetic routes for camphor production that have been documented over time. It presents several rearrangements
that this chemical and its derivatives can undergo to showcase possible starting points for new compounds
that may have biological activity.
NEDD4 Knockdown Suppresses Human Endometrial Stromal Cell Growth and Invasion by Regulating PTGS2-Mediated Ferroptosis in Endometriosis
Authors: Lao Jianting , Hu Panwei , Wan Yiting , Shu Mengmeng , Chen Jing , Yang Hong
Published: November 2024

Background:

Endometriosis (EM) is a gynecological disease characterized
by the benign growth of endometrial tissue outside the uterus. Upregulation of
neuronally expressed developmentally downregulated 4 (NEDD4) has been reported
to accelerate endometrial cancer progression.

Objectives:

We explored whether abnormal expression of NEDD4 is correlated with
EM.

Methods:

Endometrial tissue in patients without endometriosis was used to develop
the original generation of endometrial stromal cells (ESCs). Different types of
endometrial tissue of patients with endometriosis were used to measure the
expression of NEDD4 by immunohistochemistry (IHC) and western blotting. Its
biological functions in ESCs were investigated using a cell counting kit-8 assay,
fluorescein diacetate (FDA) staining, and Transwell invasion assays. Additionally, its
involvement in ferroptosis was assessed by measuring Fe2+, malondialdehyde (MDA),
glutathione (GSH), and reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels and the expression of
ferroptosis markers.

Results:

Compared with normal controls, NEDD4 levels were significantly elevated in
the endometrial tissue of patients with EM. Furthermore, NEDD4 expression was
higher in the ectopic endometrium than in the eutopic endometrium. NEDD4
knockdown reduced the viability and invasive capacity of ESCs, increased Fe2+, MDA,
and ROS levels, and decreased GSH content. Further analysis revealed that NEDD4
knockdown promoted ferroptosis in ESCs by increasing the expression of
prostaglandin-endoperoxide synthase 2 (PTGS2). As an E3 ubiquitin ligase, NEDD4
reduced PTGS2 protein levels by accelerating its ubiquitination and subsequent
proteasomal degradation.

Conclusion:

These findings suggest that inhibiting NEDD4 reduces ESC growth and
invasion in EM by regulating PTGS2-dependent ferroptosis.