bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Understanding Australian Consumers' Views on Health Information Use in Research: Systematic Review Protocol
Authors: Zakershahrak Mehrsa , Linedale Ecushla , Eley Sarah , McMillan Penelope , Earle Lana , Freeman Hannah , Keech Wendy
Published: January 2025

Background
Understanding consumers' and patients' expectations, perspectives, and understandings regarding the use of their health information for research purposes is essential to aligning research practices with public values and fostering trust in the research process.
Objectives
This unique systematic review aims to synthesise the existing literature on consumers' and patients' expectations regarding the use of their health information for research purposes in Australia, providing a comprehensive understanding of this crucial aspect of the research process.
Methods
A comprehensive search of electronic databases, including MEDLINE, EMBASE, Web of Science, and Scopus, for studies published in English from 2018 onwards will be conducted. Additionally, we will perform a grey literature search and screen Google Scholar. Studies will be screened and selected based on predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria. Data will be extracted, and the quality of included studies will be assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute critical appraisal tools. A thematic synthesis approach will be used to analyse and summarise the data. Consumers will be engaged in multiple stages to guarantee that the research process is responsive to their concerns and reflects their viewpoints.
Discussion
The findings will provide insights into the transparency of the research process, consent, ownership, privacy protection, and limitations to using health data in research as perceived by consumers in Australia. This review will inform policymakers and researchers about public expectations and enhance ethical practices in health data usage for research.
Systematic Review Registration:
PROSPERO CRD42024514557
WITHDRAWN: A Comprehensive Study of Prime Gaps Through Stochastic and Statistical Methods
Authors: Torres Íñigo
Published: January 2025

The full text of this preprint has been withdrawn by the authors while they make corrections to the work. Therefore, the authors do not wish this work to be cited as a reference. Questions should be directed to the corresponding author.
Integrated photonic 3D tensor processing engine
Authors: Lu Liangjun , Wu Yue , Ni Ziheng , Li Xin , Wang Yuanxun , Chen Jianping , Zhou Linjie
Published: January 2025

Optical computing leverages high bandwidth, low latency, and power efficiency, which is considered as one of the most effective solutions for accelerating deep learning tasks. However, mainstream photonic hardware accelerators are primarily optimized for two-dimensional (2D) matrix-vector multiplications (MVMs). To implement three-dimensional (3D) convolutional neural networks (CNNs), high-order tensors must be reshaped, duplicated, and cached in the electrical domain according to the size of the accelerators before computation, leading to extra memory usage and time overheads. Additionally, synchronization across multiple channels depends on external electronic clocks, which increases the complexity of the system. In this work, we propose an integrated photonic 3D tensor processing engine (3D-TPE) based on the interweaving of time, wavelength, and space. Data caching, computation, and synchronization are realized in the optical domain, reducing memory and time usage, and simplifying the system. Optical caching and synchronization are achieved with an optical tunable delay line chip supporting versatile clock frequencies up to 200 GHz, and optical computing is accomplished with a dual-coupled micro-ring resonators (MRRs) based crossbar chip with a 3-dB passband width of 50 GHz. We verify the processing capabilities of the 3D-TPE at clock frequencies ranging from 10 GHz to 30 GHz and perform a proof-of-concept experiment for a LiDAR 3D point cloud image recognition task operating at 20 GHz, achieving a recognition accuracy of 97.06%. The proposed 3D-TPE is anticipated to facilitate high-order tensor convolutions, playing an important role in autonomous driving, healthcare, video analytics, virtual reality, etc.
A general relationship between population size and extinction risk
Authors: Ball Thomas , Balmford Ben , Balmford Andrew , Rinaldo Daniele , Visconti Piero , Green Rhys
Published: January 2025

Understanding the relationship between a population’s probability of extinction and its carrying capacity is key in assessing conservation status, and critical to efforts to understand and mitigate the ongoing biodiversity crisis. Despite this, there has been limited research into the form of this relationship. We conducted around five billion population viability assessments which reveal that the relationship is a modified Gompertz curve. This finding is consistent across around 1700 individual model populations which represent different breeding systems and widely varying rates of population growth, levels of environmental stochasticity, adult survival rate, age at first breeding, and starting population size. Applying analytical methods to equations describing population dynamics showed that minimal assumptions were required to prove this is a general relationship which holds for any extant population subject to density-dependent growth. Finally, we discuss the implications of these findings and consider the practical use of our results by conservationists.
From Crisis to Change: Analyzing the Lasting Influence of COVID-19 on Airbnb Users through Structural Topic Modeling
Authors: Ding Kai , Li Le , Zhang Rongteng (Renata) , Chen Yuhua
Published: January 2025

A key challenge for the peer-to-peer (P2P) accommodation industry is keeping pace with the evolving expectations and behavior of guests over time, shaped by diverse experiences and shifting preferences. This study utilizes advanced text analytics to examine the lasting impact of COVID-19 on Airbnb users’ priorities regarding accommodation attributes, both during the pandemic and in the year that followed. Employing a longitudinal research design, we analyze a dataset of 461,509 reviews from 18,465 listed properties across four major cities in different countries (i.e., the United Kingdom, the United States, Spain) known for their Airbnb presence. Our findings highlight that the most significant and enduring impact of the pandemic on guest behavior is an increased prioritization of health-related features. Although certain attributes that were previously valued remain relevant, there has been a marked transition in user perceptions; specifically, hedonic and aesthetic values have diminished in importance relative to health-centric considerations. Furthermore, the policies and practices adopted during the pandemic reveal additional dimensions of its lasting influence, shaping guest expectations and preferences. Noteworthy among these are enhanced booking and cancellation flexibility, as well as the implementation of contactless services and the provision of protective equipment. This research contributes to understanding how crises can reshape guest priorities within the context of sharing economy accommodations, offering valuable insights for both academic researchers and practitioners.
The impact of obesity and its related underlying diseases on cytokine release syndrome and the efficacy of CAR-T therapy in treating B-cell malignancies
Authors: Du Mengyi , Mayombo Rosanna Tryphene Massounga , Liu Jiachen , Zhang Yinqiang , Liao Danying , Hu Yu , Mei Heng
Published: January 2025

Background: CAR-T therapy has revolutionized treatment for relapsed/refractory B-cell malignancies, including B-ALL and DLBCL. However, the influence of obesity and related comorbidities on treatment outcomes and toxicity profiles remains unclear.
Methods: This retrospective study included 115 patients treated with CAR-T therapy at Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology from 2017 to October 2023. Patients were stratified into high-risk and low-risk groups based on BMI and the presence of obesity-related comorbidities. Clinical outcomes, including CRS and ICANS severity, treatment efficacy, overall survival (OS), and progression-free survival (PFS), were analyzed. Logistic regression models assessed the relationships between covariates and clinical outcomes.
Results: The median BMI was 21.91 (IQR 19.265-24.365). Among the patients, 32 were overweight, and only one had a BMI over 30. Severe CRS occurred in 16 patients, with a higher proportion in those with obesity or related conditions (10.4% vs. 3.5%, p=0.01). Hyperlipidemia significantly increased the risk of severe CRS (OR=3.730, CI [1.204-11.556], p=0.022). However, being overweight, having diabetes, hypertension, coronary heart disease, or fatty liver were not significantly associated with severe CRS. Elevated total cholesterol was moderately correlated with increased IL-6 levels (R=0.637, p<0.001) and weakly with IFN-γ (R=0.337, p<0.001). Besides, overweight patients had a lower proportion of CAR-T cells post-infusion (OR=0.98, CI [0.961-1.0], p=0.048).
Conclusion: Obesity and related comorbidities did not significantly impact treatment efficacy. However, hyperlipidemia was associated with an increased risk of severe CRS, emphasizing the need for tailored risk management strategies in CAR-T therapy.
High NK Cell Levels at the End of Obinutuzumab Treatment Are Associated with Negative Minimal Residual Disease (MRD) in Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL)
Authors: García-Muñoz Ricardo , Larreina-Pérez Javier , Rincón-López Sofia , Atencio-Matos Johelys , Alberdi-Ballina Jone , Farfán-Quiroga Giovanna , Campeny-Nájara Andrea , Esteban-Figueroa Ada , Hernández-Pérez Montserrat , Garrastachu Puy , Velasco-Ruiz Maria , Soilan-Saco Jacobo , Ramírez-Vilariño Guillermo , de Gaona Estefania Ruiz , Feliu Jesús
Published: January 2025

NK-cell antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity (ADCC) is one of the main mechanisms of action of anti-CD20 monoclonal antibodies, which may affect the outcome of patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). We assessed whether high post-treatment NK-cell count in peripheral blood was associated with increased negative minimal residual disease (MRD) in patients receiving antibody-based therapy. Obinutuzumab forces the interaction between NK cells and CLL cells, making the number of NK cells critical for the efficacy of this monoclonal antibody. Normal NK cell counts after Obinutuzumab monotherapy are associated with achieving MRD-negative status. Group A, who did not achieve MRD-negative status, had a mean NK cell count of 36.86 cells/µL, while Group B, who achieved MRD-negative status, had a mean NK cell count of 202.29 cells/µL. NK-cell counts and MRD were measured three months after the completion of Obinutuzumab treatment. The differences were statistically significant (p < 0.05). These results underscore the relevance of evaluating NK-cell counts as a potential biomarker to predict the success of Obinutuzumab treatment. In conclusion, our study suggests that elevated NK-cell counts after Obinutuzumab treatment are associated with MRD-negative status in CLL patients.
Patterns and determinants of cardiovascular disease risk in type 2 diabetes mellitus: insights into the current state of diabetes management in Nigeria
Authors: Mohammed Jamila Abubakar , Basil Bruno , Mba Izuchukwu Nnachi , Kenechi Myke-Mbata Blessing , Okoro Ngozi Ijeoma
Published: January 2025

Background
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality among individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), especially in low- and middle-income countries. Understanding the patterns and determinants of CVD risk in these settings is essential to improving diabetes care and reducing disease burden. This study investigated the patterns and determinants of CVD risk among T2DM patients receiving specialized diabetes care in Nigeria, with the aim of informing effective risk evaluation and management strategies.
Methods
A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 150 T2DM patients in Nigeria. Demographic, clinical, and biochemical data were collected using structured research proforma. CVD risk was assessed using the Framingham Risk Score (FRS), stratified into low, moderate, and high-risk categories. Data analysis was performed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 25 and Microsoft Excel. Chi-square and independent samples t-tests were used to compare variables across risk groups while multiple linear regression was employed to identify independent determinants of CVD risk.
Results
Among the study participants, 70.7% (n = 106) were categorized as having low CVD risk (mean FRS = 6.1 ± 2.2), 29.3% (n = 44) had moderate risk (mean FRS = 11.1 ± 1.2) while none were identified as high CVD risk. Hypertriglyceridemia (B = 0.012, 95% CI: 0.006–0.019, p < 0.001), longer diabetes duration (B = 0.207, 95% CI: 0.147–0.267, p < 0.001), and use of anti-hypertensive (B = -2.005, 95% CI: -2.707 – -1.303, p < 0.001) and lipid-lowering drugs (B = -2.207, 95% CI: -3.282 – -1.132, p < 0.001) were the major determinants of CVD risk status in the study population.
Conclusions
This study reveals a predominance of low and moderate CVD risk levels among Nigerian patients with T2DM, identifying hypertriglyceridemia, diabetes duration, and medication use as key determinants. The findings highlight the positive impact of specialized diabetes care in maintaining lower CVD risk levels and emphasize the importance of comprehensive, individualized strategies for cardiovascular risk evaluation and management. Integrating effective lipid control, glycaemic monitoring, and optimized medication use into routine diabetes care has the potential to significantly reduce the CVD burden in similar resource-limited settings.
Genome-wide identification of LcC2DPs gene family in Lotus corniculatus provides insights into regulatory network in response to abiotic stresses
Authors: Yang Guangfen , Liu Yujie , Gong Zouxian , Chen Siya , Song Li , Liu Shihui
Published: January 2025

Low temperatures and drought reduce forage yield and quality, with protein kinases crucial for plant stress response. This study examines the LcC2DPs protein kinase family in Lotus corniculatus, identifying 90 members, with some tandemly distributed on chromosomes 2–6, and grouped into 5 subfamilies (I-V). 34 homologous gene pairs were found in Arabidopsis thaliana. LcC2DP genes promoters contain hormone and stress response elements. GO analysis highlights enrichment in hormone response and kinase activity. Transcriptomic analysis links 78 genes to environmental response and stress growth, with 10 validated by qRT-PCR after treatment with 100 µM ABA and IAA, 20% PEG6000, and 4°C. Protein interaction analysis identifies 5 core proteins (LcC2DP5, 11, 15, 38, and 58) activated by drought and cold stress. Gene analysis revealed that only LcC2DP5 and LcC2DP15 share co-expression transcription factors, with bZIP, bHLH, WRKY, NAC, MYB_related, MYB, C3H, and C2H2 being prominent. These proteins are expressed under drought and cold conditions, highlighting LcC2DP5 and LcC2DP15 activity. NAC and C2H2 are vital for drought response, while bZIP and MYB_related are important for cold response. This suggests that various LcC2DPs in Lotus corniculatus respond to hormones and stress via a TF regulatory network.
Exploring the genetic link between hypothyroidism and osteoporosis in patients without cancer: a two-sample Mendelian randomization analysis
Authors: Zhang Hongfei , Li Qianyuan , Sun Xiaoying , Ji Shuqi , Peng Yuzhen , Li Yiran , Wang Xiaoxiao , Qin Danni , Zhu Guopu , Yang Shuran , He Quan , Chen Zijing , Xia Yiyang , Meng Chen , Yao Chenjiao
Published: January 2025

Background:
Osteoporosis (OP) is a global health issue. Essential for the metabolism of bone, thyroid function plays a crucial role. The connection between hypothyroidism and OP in individuals without cancer remains ambiguous. The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of hypothyroidism on the onset of OP in patients who did not have cancer.
Methods:
The exposures of individuals with non-cancer hypothyroidism were obtained from the publicly accessible MRC-IEU consortium of the UK Biobank, while the outcomes were derived from the GWAS of patients with OP included in the European Bioinformatics Institute (EBI) biobank. Furthermore, a two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) method was employed to investigate the causal relationship between hypothyroidism and OP among non-cancer patients. This analysis identified single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) that were closely associated with hypothyroidism in this population, which were then used as instrumental variables. Statistical analyses were conducted using four distinct approaches: inverse variance weighted (IVW), weighted median, MR Egger regression, and the weighted mode method.
Results:
We identified a total of 119 SNPs that exhibited strong associations with hypothyroidism in non-cancer patients (P < 5 × 10−8; LDr2 < 0.001). The consistent association between hypothyroidism and OP in non-cancer patients was demonstrated through various analyses: IVW yielded an odds ratio (OR) of 1.017 with a 95% confidence interval (CI) of 1.003-1.031; MR-Egger regression produced an OR of 1.018 with a 95% CI of 0.989-1.049; the weighted median estimate indicated an OR of 1.021 with a 95% CI of 1.001-1.041; and the weighted mode analysis showed an OR of 1.039 with a 95% CI of 1.003-1.076. These findings suggest that hypothyroidism is associated with the development of OP in this population. Additionally, there was no evidence of horizontal pleiotropy affecting the relationship between hypothyroidism and OP among non-cancer patients, as indicated by an MR-Egger intercept of −5.9 × 10−6 (P = 0.932).
Conclusion:
The findings from the MR analysis indicate a potential causal relationship between hypothyroidism and the occurrence of OP in non-cancer patients.
Observations of the 2021/2022 La Niña mass coral bleaching event on the soft coral genus Sarcophyton at Magnetic Island (Australia)
Authors: Borghi Stefano , Mandolini Riccardo , Briggs Nicholas D. , Wilson Saara J. , Smith Hillary A. , Trave Claudia
Published: January 2025

Coral reef ecosystems are declining globally due to climate change. As most ecological studies have focused on stony corals, the distribution of other benthic communities and their susceptibility to bleaching remain largely overlooked. Soft corals can form diverse and ecologically important assemblages; hence it is important to understand their distribution and quantify the impacts of heatwaves on soft coral demographics. We surveyed soft corals on two inshore fringing reefs: Geoffrey Bay (19°09'13.7"S, 146°52'09.5"E) and Alma Bay (19°08'52.9"S, 146°52'13.7"E) at Magnetic Island. We aimed to survey soft corals to genus level. Then, we quantified the size frequency distribution of Sarcophyton colonies as the most abundant genus between substrate types, and examined the susceptibility of Sarcophyton to bleaching during the La Niña mass coral bleaching event in January-March 2022. We found the reefs at Magnetic Island to support diverse soft coral communities. Sarcophyton was one of the dominant soft coral genera on rock, rubble and sand beds, and colonies of all sizes experienced bleaching. Bleaching occurrence was lower in Alma Bay than Geoffrey Bay (26.66% and 52.27% of Sarcophyton colonies bleached, respectively). Bleaching was found to be depth- and size-dependent, as deeper and larger colonies had a greater likelihood to bleach. Since larger Sarcophyton colonies were more susceptible to bleaching, the impacts on reproduction, mortality and ecosystem functioning are likely to be significant. This is the first assessment of the soft corals at Magnetic Island and of the susceptibility of a common soft coral genus on the GBR to bleaching.
Market Dynamics and Structural Change in European AquacultureSector
Authors: Fricano Stefano , Fazio Gioacchino , Pirrone Claudio
Published: January 2025

Aquaculture is increasingly gaining prominence as a key sector in the global food supply chain, driven by growing demand for sustainable and high-quality seafood. This research delves into the dynamics of the aquaculture industry, with a particular focus on Europe, where the sector exhibits highly heterogeneous trajectories and enterprise trends. Such diversity highlights an ongoing structural transformation within the industry, characterized by the coexistence of varied innovation strategies, production methods, and market adaptations. Employing a Schumpeterian theoretical framework, this study seeks to conceptualize these dynamics. The Schumpeterian perspective enriches the analytical framework, offering valuable insights into the drivers of structural change and the implications for policy and practice in fostering a resilient and competitive aquaculture industry. This study contributes to the academic discourse by providing a nuanced understanding of the aquaculture sector's transformation from an economic point of view.
Intelligence levels and autistic severity are important contributors of adaptive functioning and cognitive-adaptive functioning gaps in school-aged children with ASD
Authors: Jin Wen-Yuan , Song Chao , Wang Yan-Yan , Liu Xiao-Lin , Li Wen-Hao , Wu Ling-Ling , Zhu Zhi-Wei
Published: January 2025

Background
Children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) frequently presented weaker adaptive functioning compared with typically developing children. Multiple affecting factors of adaptive functioning in ASD individuals had been explored in previous studies.
Methods
Data of age, gender, parental education, place of residence, behavioral intervention, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder comorbidity, Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children (WISC) scores and Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS) scores were collected in 107 school-aged children with ASD. Adaptive functioning of ASD subjects were evaluated through Adaptive Behavior Assessment System (ABAS). Spearman correlation analyses were applied to investigate the associations between intelligence quotient (IQ) scores, ASD related symptoms and adaptive functioning and cognitive-adaptive functioning gaps. Hierarchical regressions were performed in sequence to examine the effects of gender, age, parental education, intelligence, autistic severity and behavioral factors on General Adaptive Composite (GAC) in children with ASD.
Results
Verbal Comprehension Index (VCI), Perceptual Reasoning Index (PRI), Working Memory Index (WMI) and Processing Speed Index (PSI) of WISC were positively correlated with Conceptual domain, Social domain and GAC (P < 0.01). There were positive correlations between VCI, PRI and PSI and Practical domain (P < 0.01). Positive associations were discovered between full-scale IQ (FSIQ) and the three domains and GAC in ABAS (P < 0.01). Social Affect (SA), Restricted and Repetitive Behavior (RRB) and Total scores of ADOS were negatively correlated with Conceptual, Social and Practical domains (P < 0.05). Comparison Scores were negatively correlated with Conceptual domain and Social domain (P < 0.05). Negative correlations were found between SA, RRB, Total scores, Comparison Scores and GAC (P < 0.05). VCI, PRI, WMI, PSI and FSIQ were positively correlated with FSIQ-Conceptual, FSIQ-Social, FSIQ-Practical and FSIQ-GAC gaps (P < 0.01). SA was inversely correlated with FSIQ-Conceptual and FSIQ-Practical gaps (P < 0.05). Total scores were inversely correlated with FSIQ-Conceptual, FSIQ-Practical and FSIQ-GAC gaps (P < 0.05). FSIQ was positively correlated with GAC in the total model (β= 0.25, P = 0.015). There were significant inverse associations between RRB and GAC in the total model (β=−0.28, P = 0.014).
Conclusions
Intelligence levels and autistic severity were important contributors of adaptive functioning in school-aged children with ASD. IQ and ASD symptoms were also crucial factors affecting the cognitive-adaptive functioning gaps in ASD.
Lab-In-A-Fiber Detection and Capture of Cells
Authors: Varela João C. , Harish Achar V. , Maniewski Pawel , Gibbon Timothy , Tudoran Oana , Heuchel Rainer , Löhr Matthias , Margulis Walter , Russom Aman , Laurell Fredrik
Published: January 2025

A lab-in-a-fiber component was fabricated using an optical fiber and a fiber capillary. It was used in a test suspension of fluorescently labeled and unlabeled cells and enabled detection of the labeled cells. Subsequently the labeled cells were selectively collected via suction into the capillary. A novel sampling technique reduced photobleaching of the labeled cells, extending the measurement time. The collected cells remained viable for downstream analysis. This platform’s low fabrication cost, simplicity, compatibility with standard laboratory equipment, and capacity for fully automated cell capture highlights its potential for future applications in minimally invasive sample collection and point-of-care diagnostics.
WITHDRAWN: SUV39H1 alleviates MAFLD through inhibition of the FABPs/CEPT1 signaling pathway
Authors: sun yi , Wang changyuan , Wang Yang , Hao Ru , Liu Lu , Jin yue , Sun Huijun
Published: January 2025

The full text of this preprint has been withdrawn, as it was submitted in error. Therefore, the authors do not wish this work to be cited as a reference. Questions should be directed to the corresponding author.
Using Cumulative summation analysis (CUSUM) for the learning curve of robotic docking time in radical prostatectomy with the HUGO RAS System
Authors: Russo Pierluigi , Sighinolfi Mariachiara , Mastrovito Sara , Cretì Antonio , Panico Giovanni , Marino Filippo , Presutti Simona , Scarciglia Eros , Gandi Carlo , Ragonese Mauro , Gavi Filippo , Sacco Emilio , Foschi Nazario , Rocco Bernardo Maria Cesare
Published: January 2025

Minimally invasive surgery like robotic surgery is known to yield better outcomes in terms of blood loss, blood transfusion, and length of stay, and robot-assisted radical prostatectomy provides a clear example compared to open surgery. It is still constrained by issues related to platform availability and cost-effectiveness. Introducing new robotic platforms, such as the HUGO™ Robot-Assisted Surgery (RAS) System, could lead to longer operating times caused by the surgeon's learning curve, system configuration, adjustment of robotic devices, and robotic docking. Several studies have assessed the influence of resident physicians on outcomes in urological surgeries. Our main objective was to evaluate the learning curve of the docking time for 195 radical prostatectomies performed in our hospital. The results of our research indicate that the setup and docking process with the HUGO RAS system can be accomplished with ease, and the learning curve for robotic docking is consistent with the available data for other robotic platforms. Our training facilitated a rapid docking process and seamless completion of the surgery.
Omics studies of nuclear protein aggregates in subcellular fractions reveals co- aggregation of RNA-binding proteins affecting cytosolic pathways
Authors: Shademan Milad , Flannery Sarah , Bos Erik , Evers Tom , Sheikhhassani Vahid , Mashaghi Alireza , Kusters Benno , Engelen Baziel , Sharp Thom , Fischer Roman , Kessler Benedikt M. , Raz Vered
Published: January 2025

Disease-associated RNA binding protein (RBP) aggregation is a hallmark of several age-related neurodegenerative diseases. How insoluble RBP aggregates leads to cellular dysfunction is poorly understood. Here, we investigated the molecular mechanisms affected by insoluble PABPN1 aggregates. PABPN1 aggregates are nuclear, but PABPN1 regulates nuclear export of mRNA. To explore the cellular consequences of PABPN1 nuclear aggregates, we performed RNA sequencing and proteomic studies in subcellular fractions in an inducible human muscle cell model. RNA sequencing analyses revealed PABPN1 dysfunction in this cell model associated with reduced endogenous PABPN1 levels. Proteomic analyses revealed that most of the changes driven by PABPN1 nuclear aggregates were in the cytoplasmic fraction, accounting for reduced cell metabolism, muscle cell differentiation and muscle cell biomechanics. Changes in the insoluble fraction were small but enriched for RBPs. We show that sequestration of mRNA in nuclear aggregates is associated with impaired nuclear export of mRNA and reduced translational efficiency. Our study suggests that RBPs nuclear protein aggregates are regulated by both gain-of-function and loss-of-function mechanisms, which is relevant for the development of therapeutics for age-associated protein aggregation diseases.
Evaluation of Robotic Surgery in Pediatric and Adolescent Populations for Posterior Approach Instrumentation - a Systematic Review, Single-Arm Meta-Analysis and Meta-Regression
Authors: Łajczak Paweł , Łajczak Anna
Published: January 2025

Purpose
Robot-assisted (RAS) surgery is increasingly used in pediatric and adolescent posterior-approach spine surgery. However, current literature often focuses on pairwise comparisons, limiting comprehensive evaluation of robotic effectiveness across diverse conditions. This single-arm meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of RAS in pediatric and adolescent spine surgery.
Methods
A systematic search was conducted across PubMed, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library from inception to December 2024. Studies were included if they reported outcomes of RAS for pedicle screw placement in patients under 25 years with spinal deformities. The primary outcome was the accuracy of pedicle screw placement, assessed using the Gertzbein and Robbins (GR) grading system. Secondary outcomes included intraoperative metrics and deformity correction. A random-effects model was applied for meta-analyses.
Results
Fifteen studies encompassing 13,325 screws and 920 patients were included. The pooled rate of clinically acceptable screws (GR A+B) was 95.66% (95% CI: 94.04–97.28), with 88.54% (95% CI: 83.60–93.48) achieving perfect placement (GR A). The incidence of heavily misplaced screws (GR D+E) was 0.59% (95% CI: 0.18–1.16). Blood loss averaged 687.85 mL (95% CI: 534.27–841.43), and the mean operation time was 306.03 minutes (95% CI: 273.19–338.88). Curve correction rates and Cobb angle improvements were consistent with existing scoliosis treatment benchmarks. Heterogeneity was observed, likely due to variability in study designs, robotic systems, and patient populations.
Conclusion
RAS demonstrates high accuracy and safety in pediatric and adolescent spine surgery, with low rates of screw misplacement and acceptable secondary outcomes. While these findings highlight the clinical benefits of robotics, high heterogeneity and limited long-term data necessitate further research. Standardized reporting, longitudinal studies, and comparative analyses are essential to fully realize the potential of robotic systems in pediatric spine surgery.
Assessing acceptability of digital financial services and associated factors, opportunities and challenges in Burundi health sector
Authors: Niragira Juste , Ntawuyamara Epipode , Icitegetse Armella , Niyukuri Janvier
Published: January 2025

Background: Digital financial services (DFS) allow people to send, receive payments, and manage their finances. In Burundi, they are limited to individual money transfer agents and the purchase of phone credits.
Objective: To assess the acceptability of digital payment (DP) and identify factors, opportunities and challenges associated to the use of DFS in Burundi health system.
Methods: This is a cross-sectional, descriptive and analytical study conducted in Burundi from March to November 2023. The study was conducted in 16 health districts and included 2731 health care and services providers (HPs).
Results: The majority of HPs was young and working in the rural area. Most of them (86.5% ) had a general knowledge on DP. The acceptance level of DP among the HPs was 62% against 74.8% among the community health workers (CHWs). Many of our study participants (88.1%) believed that DFS have a positive impact on vaccination campaigns and 74.9% thought it has an excellent effectiveness. The HPs who worked at the rural level were 1.26 times more likely to use DP during vaccination campaigns than those in the urban area. The CHWs and paramedical staff were respectively 3.94 and 1.48 times more likely to use DP during vaccination campaigns than physicians.
Conclusion: This study sufficiently proved that the use of DP in the Burundi health sector in general and during vaccination campaigns especially can have a positive impact.
Volcano Monitoring System for Long-Term Eruption Forecasting Using Multiple Data Sources
Authors: Tsuji Takeshi , Ideno Minoru
Published: January 2025

Accurately forecasting volcanic eruptions is challenging due to the complexity of precursory signals. Here, we develop a machine learning-based long-term eruption forecasting model for Mount Aso, Japan, by integrating multiple observational datasets—seismic tremors, magnetic field, crater wall temperature, thermal pool temperature and volume, tilt, and volcanic gas amount—at the characteristic temporal scales of the underlying physical phenomena. The temporal scales are aligned with the intrinsic dynamics captured by each dataset to enhance the model's predictive capability. We construct a theoretical framework to quantify the predictive performance improvement. Our proposed model significantly improves predictive performance, increasing the Matthews correlation coefficient by 0.65 compared to the conventional seismic-tremor-based model, and achieving a precision of >70% in predicting volcanic eruptions. Our findings demonstrate that an ensemble of multiple data sources over optimized temporal scales, underpinned by a theoretical ensemble framework, enables high-precision, interpretable eruption forecasts months in advance and makes effective disaster mitigation planning possible.
Somatic Mutations and Outcomes in CML Adolescent and Young Adults Compared to Children, Adults, and BCR::ABL1-positive ALL Patients
Authors: Polakova Katerina Machova , Krizkova Jitka , Polivkova Vaclava , Laznicka Adam , Curik Nikola , Benesova Adela , Suchankova Pavla , Smazik Tomas , Vysinova Veronika , Mikulenkova Dana , Klamova Hana , Markova Marketa Stastna , Srb Dana , Zuna Jan , Zaliova Marketa , Trka Jan , Salek Cyril
Published: January 2025

Adolescent and young adult (AYA) patients with chronic myeloid leukemia in chronic phase (CML-CP) reportedly fare worse on tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKIs) than adults. This real-life study compared mutation profiles and outcomes in 80 AYA, 97 adult, and 16 pediatric CML-CP patients, alongside 81 BCR::ABL1-positive acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) patients. Somatic mutations in cancer-related genes (CRGs) were more frequent in AYAs with CML-CP (25.0%) than in adults (19.6%) or children (12.5%). AYAs with Ph+ ALL also exhibited higher mutational frequencies (53.3%) compared to children (26.7%) and adults (38.9%). Mutation landscapes differed at diagnosis with ASXL1, DNMT3A, and TET2dominant in CML-CP and RUNX1, IKZF1, and BCR::ABL1predominated in Ph+ ALL. ASXL1 mutations correlated with reduced progression-free survival (PFS) in AYAs and adults, with adults showing increased BCR::ABL1 mutations during TKI therapy, a trend not observed in AYAs. Nilotinib improved PFS in AYAs with ASXL1 mutations, highlighting the efficacy of higher-generation TKIs. ASXL1 mutations also impaired erythropoiesis, warranting further validation. Despite a higher mutational burden, AYAs did not show worse prognoses than adults, with lower mutation rates at follow-up suggesting better adherence. Mutation profiling and optimized TKI use are crucial to mitigate progression risks in CRG-mutated patients.
Urban Forest Quality Corresponds with Soil Microbial Community Composition and Arbuscular Fungi Root Colonization
Authors: Yarwood Stephanie , Gaimaro Lindsay , Gonzalez Humberto Castillo
Published: January 2025

Fairfax County government in Virginia, USA, conducted an extensive survey of urban forests that included assessing tree health, quantifying invasive species, and determining impervious surface. These measurements were used to calculate a quality index using the iTree tool kit. Building on survey results, our research team sampled soils and tree roots in a subset of sites representing a range of forest quality index values. Soil bacterial/archaeal and fungal communities were quantified and characterized using qPCR and amplicon sequencing to understand how soil biology relates to aboveground forest health. We observed differences in community composition and putative functional assignments indicated a decrease in ectomycorrhizal fungi with declining quality. Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal root colonization also decreased with forest quality. This study demonstrates the crucial above- and belowground connections within urban forests and highlights the need for urban managers to consider soil biology when assessing urban ecosystem health.
Spinal Cord Stimulation for Neuropathic Pain Caused by Spinal Cysticercosis: Case Report
Authors: Guo Mali , Zhang Yixin , Li Meirui , Zhang Guangjian
Published: January 2025

Background:Spinal cord cysticercosis, a rare subtype of neurocysticercosis (NCC), primarily affects the subarachnoid space. The optimal treatment approach remains uncertain, with both pharmacological and surgical strategies being employed. Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) has been established as a safe and effective therapy for chronic pain,we present a case of neuropathic pain caused by spinal cord cysticercosis, successfully managed with SCS.
Case presentation:A 69-year-old female presented with an 8-year history of trunk and limb pain. Eight years ago, she was diagnosed with spinal cord cysticercosis at a hospital in South Korea and underwent laminectomy. The surgery was uneventful, and her postoperative recovery was satisfactory. However, the pain persisted and progressively worsened over time, eventually involving the entire trunk and limbs, accompanied by sensory abnormalities and progressive lower limb weakness. After a thorough evaluation based on her symptoms, an electrode was placed at the L2 segment for spinal cord stimulation. During hospitalization, stimulation parameters were adjusted multiple times based on patient feedback. At a one-week postoperative follow-up, the patient reported significant relief from trunk and limb pain, along with marked improvement in lower limb strength, sensory perception, numbness, and cold sensations.
Conclusions: This case demonstrates the efficacy of SCS in treating neuropathic pain caused by spinal cord cysticercosis. The benefits extend beyond pain relief to include recovery of impaired motor function, providing a valuable reference for managing refractory pain in similar patients.
Evaluation of Antifungal Efficacy of Lantana camara, Hyptis suaveolens, and Trichoderma viride against Fungal Biodegradation of Timber
Authors: S Bharath Kumar , Kumar Muthu , Mamatha N , Nagadesi Praveen Kumar
Published: January 2025

Wood-rotting fungi (WRF) are significant agents of wood degradation. While chemical preservatives have been traditionally effective, this study investigates eco-friendly alternatives using antagonistic fungi and plant extracts as biological control agents (BCAs). The biodegradation potential of seven white-rot fungi—Trametes hirsuta, Schizophyllum commune, Pycnoporus sanguineus, Lenzites betulinus, Ganoderma applanatum, Oligoporus placentus, and Fomes meliae—were assessed on five wood types: Artocarpus heterophyllus, Pterocarpus marsupium, Tectona grandis, Dalbergia latifolia, and Santalum album. The effectiveness of BCAs was evaluated through a wood preservation technique conducted on selected woods mentioned above. The antagonistic effect of Trichoderma viride and Plant extract (Ethanolic & Methanolic) of Lantana Camera and Hyptis suaveolens (0.5–2.5%) were investigated against the T. hirsuta, S. commune, P. sanguineus, L. betulinus, G. applanatum, O. placentus and F. melia species of WRF. Degradation rates of A. heterophyllus, P. marsupium, and T. grandis reached 53.3%, 49.8%, and 47.2%, respectively. Methanolic extracts of Lantana camara and Hyptis suaveolens at 2.5% concentration demonstrated more antifungal efficacy, inhibiting fungal growth by 95–100%. The antagonistic fungus Trichoderma viride demonstrated 89% inhibition of pathogenic WRF. Wood preservation technique revealed 2.5% methanolic extracts of H. suaveolens able to control the WRF when compare to L. camara methonolic extract. This study highlights the potential of plant-derived extracts and antagonistic fungi as eco-friendly alternatives to chemical preservatives, addressing both fungal degradation and environmental concerns.
Analysis of shear creep behaviors of hardwood and softwood using creep recovery curves
Authors: Shimazaki Kanon , Ando Kosei
Published: January 2025

This study was aimed at exploring the sheer creep behavior of wood through off-axis tensile creep and creep recovery tests. Using the creep recovery data, the shear creep properties of softwood (Japanese Hinoki cypress, Chamaecyparis obtusa) and hardwood (Japanese Buna beech, Fagus crenata) were compared. The trends of three components of strain, i.e., instantaneous elastic, delayed elastic, and permanent strains, during shear creep were predicted by decomposing the total strain during creep recovery, assuming that the rate of increase in delayed elastic strain is the same as the recovery rate during creep recovery. Fitting a Burger model to each predicted strain yielded more reliable material parameters compared with those obtained by simply mathematically fitting the Burger model to the total creep strain. The Burger model demonstrated excellent accuracy in fitting the measured creep curves of hardwood. However, it could not explain the shear creep behavior of softwood. This discrepancy in the fitting results was attributable to the differences in the behavior of permanent strain: The permanent strain of cypress exhibited a curvilinear trend, while that of beech displayed a more linear trend. To explain the curvilinear behavior of permanent strain, a modified Burger model, which assumes that the apparent viscosity of permanent strain changes in a strain-rate-dependent manner, was proposed. The modified Burger model yielded better fitting results than the conventional Burger model, suggesting that the viscous component of wood exhibits an apparent viscosity that depends on the strain rate rather than a constant value, as assumed in the conventional Burger model.
Assessing the Impact of NPK Application Rates at different Growth Stages on morphology and Biomass Yield of Tephrosia vogelii Hook. f. (Fabaceae
Authors: Effa Emmanuel Bassey , Bisong Benedette Ozoemena , Okweche Simon Idoko , Binang Walter Bisong
Published: January 2025

A two-year field study investigated the effects of varying rates of fertilizer NPK 20.10.10 and timing of application on the vegetative growth and biomass yield of T. vogelii (Fish bean) at the study area in 2019 and 2020 cropping seasons. Treatments consisted of three rates of N.P.K 20.10.10. (0, 100 and 200 kg/ha) and two fertilizer application periods (pre-anthesis and at pod commencement), giving a combination of 3 x 2 x 3 = 18 treatments. Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with three replications was used to disperse all treatments in the field. Results showed that T. vogelii plants that were fertilized pre- anthesis with 200 kg/ha N.P.K. 20.10.10 in both years had higher growth and yield performance, outstripping plants that received 0 and 100 kg/ha NPK. Interactively, 200 kg/ha of NPK fertilizer at early pre-anthesis gave the best performance of the plant during the study. The study demonstrates that T. vogelii is suitable propagated in the study area and inorganic fertilizer at 200 kg/ha NPK is optimum for basal fertilization.
Development of Filament Dryer for Drying Process of 3D Printing Filament in Open Storage Condition
Authors: Widyianto Agus
Published: January 2025

PLA (Polylactic Acid) filament is one of the most popular 3D printing filaments, especially in industrial applications. This can happen because PLA is hygroscopic and easily reacts with water, breaking the chain and reducing its mechanical properties. To overcome these problems, this research aims to: (1) determine the effect of filament dryer modification on the drying process of 3D printing filament, and (2) determine the effect of accelerated drying to shorten the heating time on the mechanical properties of 3D printing filament. Thus, the drying process of materials is important. Therefore, the filament dryer was modified by adding control elements to improve the performance of the 3D printing filament drying process. The drying process reduces the water content trapped inside the 3D-printed filament. The strength of the filament left exposed for 5 weeks was restored through experimental testing by drying at different temperatures and durations. Mechanical properties increased by 1.10% with the combination of 45°C temperature and 6 hours duration, resulting in higher mechanical properties (yield strength) compared to the first time the filament was opened, which exhibited mechanical properties up to 81.4 MPa in the bending test and 41.8 MPa in the tensile test.
Anti-inflammatory response of Metformin Nanoparticles and/or low doses γ-Irradiation on Acute Pancreatitis in Rats via regulation of inflammatory cytokine
Authors: Osman Neamat Ahmed , Mosleh Mohamed , Zahran Faten
Published: January 2025

Repeated pancreatic insult inflammation leads to the development of pancreatitis. In these studies the evaluation of nano-formulated metformin drug with chitosan (Cs-Met NPs) and/or low-doses of γ-irradiation (IR) against acute pancreatitis (AP) induced by L-arginine in an animal model. Thirty adult of Albino rats were divided randomly into 5 groups. Normal control, L-Arginine treated (AP); AP + IR; AP + Cs-Met NPs and AP + IR + Cs-Met NPs. Histopathological studies of pancreatic and biochemical parameters (serum amylase and lipase levels, Random blood glucose (RBS), plasma insulin level, Insulin growth factor 1, tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, and CRP were measured in the pancreatitis model. AP induced by L-Arginine- treatment elevates the serum pancreatic amylase & lipase levels, significantly increases IL-6, IL-8, TNF-α, RBS, and CRP, and significantly decreases IL-10, insulin levels, and Insulin growth factor 1. Microscopic examination revealed loss of the pancreatic lobular architecture, marked fibrosis, acinar degeneration, inflammation, and marked oedema. All the serological parameters and the histopathological observations were markedly improved by Cs-Met NPs administration and/or low doses of γ-irradiation treatment. In conclusion, Cs-Met NPs and/or low doses of γ- irradiation have a therapeutic effect on acute pancreatitis model induced in rats.
Fragebogen für Lernende "Künstliche Intelligenz und Fremdsprachen", im Rahmen des Artikels "Fremdsprachenlernen im Zeitalter Künstlicher Intelligenz – eine empirische Untersuchung zu Kenntnissen, Meinungen und Nutzungsweisen von Englisch-, Französisch- und Spanischschüler*innen der Sekundarstufen I und II"
Authors: Korell Johanna Lea , Nijhawan Subin , Ißler Roland Alexander , Viebrock Britta
Published: January 2025

This empirical study investigates AI knowledge, beliefs, and reported practices among secondary school learners of English, French, and Spanish in Germany (n=226). A survey revealed significant gaps between students' self-perceived and actual understanding of AI as well as their use and critical reflection on it. The findings suggest that integrating AI into foreign language learning, initially through targeted teacher training, is instrumental to develop both functional and evaluative skills among students, thereby sustainably fostering critical digital literacy.
Vincetoxicum rossicum (Kleopow) Barbarich als Neophyt im Flächennaturdenkmal ‚Kerbe‘ bei Halle/Saale
Authors: Krumbiegel Anselm , Weiss Volkmar
Published: January 2025

Vincetoxicum rossicum ist seit ca. Mitte der 1980er Jahre aus dem FND ‚Kerbe‘ bei Neuragoczy (Saalekreis) bekannt (Aufschluss von Zechsteinkalk). Das Vorkommen geht auf Ansalbung zurück und hat sich dort etabliert. Die Art wird vorgestellt und es wird über die Vergesellschaftung berichtet.