bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development and validation of a nomogram for predicting cough variant asthma diagnosis
Authors: Min Jiao , Tang Xiaomiao , Zhang Di , Yang Jin , Li Fei , Lei Wei
Published: January 2025

Background

Cough variant asthma (CVA) is a specific type of asthma characterized by chronic cough as the sole or predominant symptom. Accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment, yet bronchial provocation test is not always feasible in clinical settings. To identify independent predictors of CVA diagnosis, we developed a nomogram for predicting CVA. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were employed to construct the model, and the accuracy and consistency of the prediction model were subsequently validated.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective review of clinical data from 241 outpatients with chronic cough (≥ 8 weeks) who underwent bronchial provocation test at our hospital between January 2018 and December 2021. Patients were categorized into CVA group and Non-CVA group based on diagnostic criteria. Univariate analysis (chi-square and t-tests) was performed, followed by multivariate logistic regression to identify independent predictors. A nomogram was constructed using these predictors and validated using Bootstrap resampling (B = 200) to calculate the C-index. Additionally, receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis and decision curve analysis (DCA) were employed to assess the model's accuracy.

Results

Of the 241 outpatients, 156 (64.7%) were diagnosed with CVA. Multivariate analysis identified several independent predictors of CVA, including cough triggered by cold air (OR = 12.493, P = 0.019), exposure to pungent odors (OR = 3.969, P = 0.002), cough phasing (OR = 4.515, P < 0.001), history of allergic rhinitis (OR = 3.231, P = 0.018), and the percentage of the predicted value of maximum mid-expiratory flow (MMEF%pred) (OR = 0.981, P = 0.039) were independent predictors of CVA. The nomogram demonstrated good discrimination (AUC = 0.829) and calibration, with a sensitivity of 75.3% and specificity of 77.6% at the optimal cutoff. The C-index was 0.920, indicating excellent model performance.

Conclusions

We successfully developed and validated a user-friendly nomogram that accurately predicted CVA diagnosis based on clinical characteristics and pulmonary function test. This nomogram model could assist clinicians in diagnosing CVA, especially in patients without bronchial provocation test or with contraindications to bronchial provocation test.
Transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation as a pain modulator in knee osteoarthritis: a randomized controlled clinical trial
Authors: Elsehrawy Gehad Gamal , Ibrahim Maha Emad , A.moneim Nermeen Hassan , Hefny Mohamed Ahmed , El Shaarawy Nashwa Kamel
Published: January 2025

Background

Our understanding of osteoarthritis (OA) has evolved from a degenerative disease to one in which low-grade, chronic inflammation plays a central role. In addition, evidence suggests that OA is accompanied by both peripheral and central nervous system sensitization that can cause pain. It has been demonstrated that transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation (tVNS) can relieve pain, inflammation, and central sensitization in other conditions including fibromyalgia, pelvic pain, and headaches. We aimed to assess the efficacy and safety of tVNS on nociceptive pain, central sensitization, and physical function in knee OA.

Methods

In this 12-week study, we stimulated the auricular branch of the vagus nerve with an auricular electrode connected to a transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation device once a day for 3 days each week for 12 weeks. A total of 68 patients with chronic knee OA were randomly assigned to the active and sham groups (34 patients in each group). We used a variety of outcome measures, including the visual analog scale (VAS), pressure pain threshold (PPT), knee injury and osteoarthritis outcome score (KOOS), PainDETECT (PD-Q) and Douleur Neuropathique 4 (DN4) questionnaires. Outcome measures were recorded at baseline, At the end of the stimulation period, and then after 4 weeks.

Results

In the active group, compared to baseline, there was a significant improvement in VAS scores between the first and second follow-up visits (P < 0.001). A significant improvement in PPT was seen in the right knee, left knee, and right elbow in active tVNS, and this improvement persisted for four weeks post-intervention. Meanwhile, in the sham group, right knee PPT was improved but not maintained. There were statistically significant improvements in the PD-Q and DN4 scores in the active tVNS group (P < 0.001), whereas in the sham group, DN4 questionnaire did not show any improvement. In terms of functional outcomes, the improvement in KOOS was significant only in the active group (31.44 ± 18.49, P < 0.001). No serious adverse events were observed.

Conclusion

There is preliminary evidence to support the benefits of tVNS in OA, suggesting that neuromodulation can be used as an adjunct to existing pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatments.

Trial registration

The study was registered on ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT05387135) on 24/05/2022.
Bonding performance of universal adhesive systems with dual-polymerising resin cements to various dental substrates: in vitro study
Authors: Takano Shunsuke , Takahashi Rena , Tabata Tomoko , Zeng Chen , Ikeda Masaomi , Shimada Yasushi
Published: January 2025

Background

Resin cements often require substrate-specific pretreatment. Recently, universal adhesive systems have been introduced, simplifying procedures by eliminating the need for multiple adhesives and offering options that do not require light curing. This study investigated the bonding performance of universal adhesive systems combined with dual-polymerising resin cements on enamel, dentin, zirconia, lithium disilicate ceramics (LDS), and resin blocks.

Methods

Two universal adhesive and dual-polymerising resin cement combinations from the same manufacturer were tested: Bondmer Lightless II (BLII) with Estecem II (ECII), and Scotchbond Universal Plus adhesive (SBU) with RelyX Universal resin cement (RXU). Enamel, dentin, zirconia (Katana Zirconia UTML), LDS (IPS e.max CAD CEREC), and resin blocks (Katana Avencia P Block) were used as substrates. The universal adhesive was applied to all bonding surfaces, followed by resin cement application in micro-bore Tygon tubes and light curing for 40 s. Micro-shear bond strength (μSBS) was measured after 0 thermal cycles (0TC) or 10,000 thermal cycles (10kTC) (n = 20). Statistical analyses were conducted using t-tests and Welch's t-tests with Bonferroni correction (α = 0.05), and failure modes were examined.

Results

In the BLII/ECII group, the mean μSBS values exceeded 15 MPa for all substrates at 0TC. After thermocycling, μSBS increased significantly for the enamel (p < 0.05), remained unchanged for dentin and zirconia (p > 0.05) and decreased for LDS and resin blocks (p < 0.05). In the SBU/RXU group, 0TC μSBS values exceeded 15 MPa for enamel, zirconia, and resin blocks, but thermocycling significantly decreased μSBS for all substrates (p < 0.05). Comparison between BLII/ECII and SBU/RXU group showed no significant differences for enamel and resin blocks at 0TC (p > 0.05), but the BLII/ECII group exhibited higher SBS in the other groups (p < 0.05). Adhesive failure was the most frequently observed failure type across all groups.

Conclusion

The adhesive performance on diverse dental substrates including enamel, dentin, zirconia, LDS, and resin blocks was notably affected by the selection of universal adhesive systems in combination with dual-polymerising resin cements that were applied. The BLII/ECII combination demonstrated long-term stable bonding performance for enamel, dentin, and zirconia.
Evaluation of a mentorship matchmaking event at an academic research institution to reinforce the scientific workforce pathway for underrepresented minority groups
Authors: Gutierrez Sirena , Seuferer Jennifer A. , Guerrero Angel-Max , Carrasco Yazmin , Bibbins-Domingo Kirsten , Nguyen Tung , Márquez-Magaña Leticia , Nystul Todd , Morris Meghan D.
Published: January 2025

Background

Mentorship and research experiences are crucial for STEMM career entry and advancement. However, systemic barriers have excluded people from historically underrepresented groups.

Methods

In 2021, a virtual “matchmaking event” was held to connect NIH-funded research mentors with historically underrepresented trainees and initiate mentored research experiences. Survey data collected over 12 months was analyzed to evaluate the program’s success considering the number of mentor-trainee connections, mentor-trainee research experience matches, and NIH diversity supplement application status. Statistical tests, including student’s t-test, ANCOVAs, and chi-square tests, evaluated differences between attendee groups and survey time points.

Results

Out of 314 mentors contacted and 99 registered trainees, 113 mentors and 92 trainees participated. Among mentors (n = 73), 53% identified as women, 56% as non-Hispanic white, and a majority (81%) reported being the first in their family to attend college. Among trainees (n = 79), about two-thirds (67%) identified as women, 47% identified as Hispanic/Latinx, and 15% identified as Black/African American. Both mentors and trainees were extremely satisfied with the overall event (57% and 69%, respectively) and would recommend it to others (74% and 90%, respectively). Most mentor participants established at least one mentor-trainee connection after the event (n = 64, 57%), a mentor-trainee research experience match (n = 40, 35%), and planned to submit an NIH diversity supplement (n = 31, 27%). Many trainees obtained paid positions through the mentor-trainee research experience. One year after the event, 11 trainees secured NIH diversity supplement funding with their mentors.

Conclusions

The matchmaking event began bridging a much-needed gap in the research pathway by creating opportunities for trainees to connect with mentors and obtain funded research opportunities.
A qualitative exploration of feedback experience among final-year physiotherapy students using activity theory
Authors: Lupton-Smith Alison , Herman Nicoline , Schmutz Anna
Published: January 2025

Background

Feedback is an important part of learning, however, it often does not have the desired effect. Much work has been done exploring students’ engagement with feedback and factors which may impact engagement. Mutual understanding of feedback and feedback practice on the part of the student and educator is essential.

Methods

This study explored the perceptions of feedback of final-year physiotherapy students at Stellenbosch University (South Africa). Twelve semi-structured interviews were conducted to generate data. Cultural-historical activity theory was used as an analytic lens in the data analysis.

Results

Students understood feedback to be a continuous, bidirectional conversation in which they were actively involved. Students recognised their agency in feedback practice. Despite their understanding, their agency was often undermined by factors such as the environment, context and most notably the perceived positioning and relationships between students and educators. Educators who were perceived as credible and created a safe psychosocial space had a positive influence on the students’ perception of feedback.

Conclusions

Students’ perceptions of feedback and their engagement was the product of a complex and dynamic interplay of factors. While students recognise their agency, this may be hindered by relationships and the design of feedback in the curriculum. As educators, one must consider how we contribute to this and enable students to activate and use their agency in feedback practice.
The organizational challenges of municipal call centers as a health service in Norway-a multiple case study
Authors: Grøndal-Eeles Linda , Dugstad Janne , Eide Hilde , Nilsen Etty
Published: January 2025

Background

To maintain sustainability in the health care system, technology such as social alarms and sensors has been implemented in people’s homes with the goal of increasing independent living for elderly and multimorbid health care recipients. When implementing technology, someone needs to monitor and answer the alarms and calls, which is often coined ‘telecare’. Many countries have organized telecare service in call centers, which in the health care domain is a service innovation. This study aims to research how call centers in Norway were organized, what services they offered, and what challenges they faced.

Method

This was an explorative study, using multiple case methodology. The study included five call centers, covering approximately 60 municipalities across Norway. 11 interviews with 15 informants, holding a variety of positions, such as managers, assistant managers, health personnel, technicians, advisors, and subject coordinators, call center observations and document studies were conducted. The data was analyzed inductively, and empirical literature as well as a framework for service innovation were used as theoretical perspectives.

Results

Four types of organizational structures of call centers were identified: 1) call center combined with emergency room; 2) call center combined with other technology; 3) call center combined with ambulant team and 4) call center combined with an advisory department. One factor for innovation success has been identified as market conditions which are expected to be increasing, whilst the study identified several challenges, for example the complexity of stakeholders. Based on different stakeholder worldviews, the various methods of innovation and organization have led to a variation in services.

Conclusions

Stakeholders with different worldviews, service innovation strategies and municipal autonomy have influenced how the call centers have developed in different directions. They are still in a service innovation phase, implementing new services and technology. The call centers appeared to be ‘caught between a rock and a hard place’ – situated between health and social care, but slowly moving towards acute and contingency services, that is, from telecare towards telehealth.
Optimization of fermentation conditions to increase the production of antifungal metabolites from Streptomyces sp. KN37
Authors: Yang Xiaoyue , Yuan Lijing , Zeeshan Muhammad , Yang Chuntian , Gao Wen , Zhang Guoqiang , Wang Chunjuan
Published: January 2025

The bacterium Streptomyces sp. KN37 was isolated from the soil of Kanas, Xinjiang. The broth dilution of strain KN37 has a strong inhibitory effect against a variety of crop pathogenic fungi. However, in practical applications, its effective biological activity is limited by medium formulations and fermentation conditions. In this study, we used the response surface method to optimize the fermentation medium and conditions of the strain KN37, for investigating the reasons for the enhanced biological activity at both the metabolic and transcriptomic levels. The results of the Plackett-Burman design showed that millet, yeast extract, and K2HPO4 were the key factors influencing its antifungal activity. Subsequently, optimization by the response surface methodology yielded the final fermentation conditions as: millet 20 g/L, yeast extract 1 g/L, K2HPO4 0.5 g/L, rotation speed 150 r/min, temperature 25 °C, initial pH 8, fermentation time 9 d, inoculation amount 4%, liquid volume 100 mL. The antifungal effect of the optimized strain fermentation dilution was significantly enhanced, and the antifungal rate of R. solani increased from 27.33 to 59.53%, closely aligning with the predicted value of 53.03%. The results of HPLC-MS/MS and transcriptomic analysis revealed that the content of some secondary metabolic active substances in the fermentation broth of KN37 was significantly different from that of the original fermentation broth. Notably, the content of 4- (diethylamino) salicylaldehyde (DSA) was significantly increased by 16.28-fold while the yield of N- (2,4-dimethylphenyl) formamide (NDMPF) was increased by 6.35 times. Transcriptomic analysis further elucidated molecular mechanisms behind these changes with the expression of salicylic acid dehydrogenase (SALD) was significantly down-regulated, which was only 0.48 times compared to that before optimization. This research successfully optimized the fermentation process of strain KN37 providing a strong foundation for the actual production and application of strain KN37 in agriculture.
Racialized migrant women’s discrimination in maternal care: a scoping review
Authors: Arcilla Jasmine Therese , Nanou Alexandra , Hamed Sarah , Osman Fatumo
Published: January 2025

Background

Despite equality and quality being the core of good healthcare, racial and ethnic inequalities continue to persist. Racialized groups, including racialized migrant women, experience various forms of discrimination—particularly during maternal care encounters, where intersectional forms of discrimination may occur. Experiences of discrimination in maternal care have been associated with poor health-seeking behavior and adverse maternal health outcomes. However, research on racialized migrant women’s discrimination in maternal care is limited. This scoping review aims to give an overview of the state of current research on the discriminatory experiences of racialized migrant women when utilizing maternal healthcare and its gaps to ensure equity in global maternal healthcare.

Methodology

This scoping review mapped out all available English-language scientific empirical literature published between 2012 and 2023. All authors agreed on the inclusion criteria. Collecting, charting, and reviewing the included material were done using the 2018 Preferred Reporting Items for reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) checklist. The search strategy included electronic databases, such as Pubmed, CINAHL, MEDLINE, Web of Science, and PsycInfo.

Results

A total of 57 articles were included and analyzed. The majority were qualitative and conducted in European and North American countries. None of the included article’s aims originally intended to focus on discrimination. However, their findings exposed the many ways racialized migrant women experienced discrimination when using maternal healthcare services—from accessibility problems, non-utilization of interpreters, and untimely and delayed care to disrespect, abuse, and differential care. Racialized migrant women’s discrimination resulted in a lack of agency and being excluded from decision-making.

Conclusions

While the included articles allude to some issues related to discrimination in maternal healthcare experienced by racialized migrant women, this review delineated knowledge gaps warranting discussion. Few articles focus on and conceptualize discrimination from a racialized lens in maternal healthcare. A limited geographical scope in research and knowledge generation on discrimination and racialization exist in this field as does a lack of sufficient articles on discrimination and racism from healthcare personnel. Lastly, many of the existing studies lack an intersectional lens in exploring discrimination in maternal care against racialized migrant women.
In-hospital mortality of patients admitted to the intermediate care unit in hospitals with and without an intensive care unit: a nationwide inpatient database study
Authors: Ohbe Hiroyuki , Kudo Daisuke , Kimura Yuya , Matsui Hiroki , Yasunaga Hideo , Kushimoto Shigeki
Published: January 2025

Background

Intermediate care units (IMCUs) provide care for patients who need more intensive treatment than general wards but less than intensive care units (ICUs). Although the concept of an IMCU requires co-location with an ICU, some hospitals have IMCUs but no ICUs, which potentially worsens patient outcomes. This study aimed to examine the annual trends and care processes, and compare the outcomes of patients admitted to IMCUs in hospitals with and without ICUs using a nationwide inpatient database in Japan.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study was conducted from 2016 to 2022 using the Diagnosis Procedure Combination Database and Hospital Bed Function Reports in Japan. The main exposure was admission to the IMCU in hospitals with and without ICUs. The primary outcome was in-hospital mortality rate in hospitals with and without ICUs that were compared using multilevel logistic regression models adjusted for confounders.

Results

The number of IMCU beds in hospitals without ICUs increased by 59% from 3,388 in 2016 to 5,403 in 2022, and the IMCU beds in hospitals without ICUs represented 38% (n = 5,403/14,185) of all IMCU beds in Japan in 2022. Among the 3,061,960 eligible patients in the IMCUs, 2,296,939 (75%) and 765,021 (25%) were admitted to hospitals with and without ICUs, respectively. Transfer between IMCUs and ICUs occurred for 10.5% (n = 320,938/3,061,960) of patients, with a large variability between hospitals. After adjusting for potential confounders, patients admitted to IMCUs in hospitals without ICUs had significantly higher in-hospital mortality than those in hospitals with ICUs (adjusted odds ratio: 1.15; 95% confidence interval: 1.10–1.20; p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Admission in IMCUs in hospitals without ICUs increased, but was associated with higher in-hospital mortality. These findings suggest that IMCUs should be placed in hospitals with ICUs.
Demographic and historical processes influencing Cochliomyia hominivorax (Diptera: Calliphoridae) population structure across South America
Authors: e Souza Kelly da Silva , de Paula Letícia Chiara Baldassio , de Azeredo-Espin Ana Maria Lima , Torres Tatiana Teixeira
Published: January 2025

Background

In this study, we investigated the genetic variability and population structure of the New World screwworm fly Cochliomyia hominivorax. We tested the hypothesis that the species exhibits a center–periphery distribution of genetic variability, with higher genetic diversity in central populations (e.g., Brazil) and lower diversity in peripheral populations.

Methods

Using microsatellite markers, we analyzed larvae collected from infested livestock across South America. The larvae were collected directly from various wound sites to ensure a broad representation of genetic diversity.

Results

Contrary to our initial hypothesis, the results revealed consistent genetic variability across the species’ distribution, low population differentiation, and no evidence of isolation-by-distance patterns among subpopulations. The genetic analysis indicated an excess of homozygotes, potentially due to the Wahlund effect, null alleles, or selection pressure.

Conclusions

These findings suggest a complex metapopulation structure for C. hominivorax, challenging classical population genetics models. This complexity likely arises from the species’ high dispersal capability and frequent local extinctions followed by recolonization. These results have important implications for the design and implementation of control programs, emphasizing the need for coordinated and large-scale actions rather than isolated initiatives.

Graphical Abstract
Formal guidelines from an expert panel: intensive care unit medical staffing, organisation and working hours to improve quality of life at work in France
Authors: Terzi Nicolas , Thiery Guillaume , Bèle Nicolas , Bigé Naike , Brossier David , Boyer Alexandre , Couty Edouard , Flender Laëtitia , Manzon Cyril , Mira Jean-Paul , Ortuno Sofia , Peigne Vincent , Poncet Marie-Cécile , Renolleau Sylvain , Rigaud Jean-Philippe , Vivet Bérengère , Kuteifan Khaldoun ,   the French Intensive Care Society (FICS), the French National Council of Intensive Care Medicine (CNP MIR, Conseil National Professionel de Médecine Intensive Réanimation)
Published: January 2025

Background

Intensive care units (ICU) are characterized by high medical assistance costs and great complexity. Recommendations to determine the needs of medical staff are scarce, generating appreciable variability. The French Intensive Care Society (FICS) and the French National Council of Intensive Care Medicine (CNP MIR, Conseil National Professionel de Médecine Intensive Réanimation) have established a technical committee of experts, the purposes of which were to draft recommendations regarding staffing needs in ICUs and to propose optimal organisation of work hours, a key objective being improved workplace quality of life.

Results

Literature analysis was conducted according to the GRADE methodology (Grade of Recommendation Assessment, Development and Evaluation). The synthesis work of the experts according to the GRADE method led to the development of 22 recommendations in 6 field. The experts issued a strong recommendation associated with a high level of evidence which is that work organization be given priority during periods of permanent care, with a maximum 16 h of consecutive work permitted. For 21 other recommendations, the level of evidence did not allow GRADE classification, and led to the formulation of expert opinions. All recommendations and expert opinions were validated (strong agreement).

Conclusion

The work in the intensive care unit and in the intermediate intensive care unit is multifaceted, both clinical and non-clinical, and must include at least the following continuity and quality for patient safety. This document provides a detailed framework to propose an optimal medical staff.
Impact of frailty and older age on weaning from invasive ventilation: a secondary analysis of the WEAN SAFE study
Authors: Laffey Caoimhe M. , Sheerin Rionach , Khazaei Omid , McNicholas Bairbre A. , Pham Tài , Heunks Leo , Bellani Giacomo , Brochard Laurent , Tomescu Dana , Simpkin Andrew J. , Laffey John G. ,   on behalf of the WEAN SAFE Investigators
Published: January 2025

Objective

To understand the impact of both frailty and chronologic age on outcomes of weaning from invasive mechanical ventilation (MV).

Methods

The study population consisted of patients enrolled in the ‘WorldwidE. AssessmeNt of Separation of pAtients From ventilatory assistancE (WEAN SAFE) study. We defined 4 non-overlapping groups, namely: ‘frail’ (clinical frailty scale [CFS] score > 4; age < 80 years); ‘elderly’ (CFS ≤ 4; age ≥ 80y), ‘frail \elderly’ (CFS > 4; age ≥ 80 years), and a ‘not frail or elderly’ population. The primary outcome was the impact of frailty and older age on delayed weaning and failed weaning from invasive MV. Secondary outcomes included the impact of frailty and age on ICU and hospital survival.

Results

In the study population, 760 (17%) were frail, while 360 (8%) were elderly, 197 (4%) were frail and elderly, while 3,176 (70%) were not frail or elderly. The frail and elderly cohorts were more likely to be female, had hypoxemic/hypercapnic respiratory failure or sepsis, and had more comorbidities. The proportion of delayed weaning and of failed weaning from invasive MV was significantly higher in the frail (28 and 23%), the elderly (25 and 19%), and the frail and elderly groups (22% and 25%), compared to the not frail or elderly population (12% and 13%, P < 0.01). ICU and hospital mortality was higher in the frail (21 and 33%), the elderly (19 and 31%), and the frail and elderly groups (26 and 46%), compared to the not frail or elderly population (12% and 18%, P < 0.001). In multivariate analyses, there was an independent association between frailty and delayed weaning initiation and weaning failure. Old age was independently associated with risk of weaning failure.

Conclusions

Frailty status had a more consistent impact than older age on weaning outcomes. However, overall outcomes in these cohorts are encouraging once separation attempts have been initiated.
The pharmacology, toxicology, and detoxification of Aconitum kusnezoffii Reichb., traditional and modern views
Authors: Happy Kenneth , Yang Sungyu , Kang Chang Ho , Kang Youngmin
Published: January 2025

Aconitum kusnezoffii Reichb. is a medicinal plant widely used in traditional Asian medicine, especially in Korea, for its potent pharmacological effects. However, its toxic alkaloids pose significant risk, making careful processing essential to reduce its toxicity. This study reviewed the plant’s processing methods, pharmacological activities, phytochemistry, toxicology, and detoxification techniques. Data from several databases, including Google scholar, PubMed, Scopus, Web science, peer-reviewed journal articles, classic herbal medicine books, and Allied and Complementary Medicine Database (AMED) were critically retrieved, organized and analyzed. The article’s findings indicate that, various ethnic groups in Asia have utilized different techniques, involving fire, water, or a combination of both to maximize the plant’s therapeutic potential and ensure safety. To date, more than 70 alkaloids, categorized into diterpenoids, norditerpenoids, and benzylisoquinolines, have been isolated from different plant’s parts (roots, leaves, stems, and flowers). These compounds exhibit various pharmacological activities including anti-inflammatory, analgesics, anti-cancer, anti-tumor, anti-arhythmic and pain-relieving properties. Despite its therapeutic potential, A. kusenzoffii. has narrow therapeutic window, meaning even small doses can be toxic. The study explored methods for reducing toxicity and detoxifying the herb emphasizing the importance of modern technologies such as propagation techniques, Systematic Evolution of Ligands by Exponential Enrichment (SELEX)-aptamer technology, and Chinmedomics in herbal medicine development. While research on this herb is extensive, gaps remain in clinical trials and efficacy studies. Further research is recommended to evaluate the quality of medicinal materials, understanding the herb’s pharmacodynamic substances, and assess long-term toxicity and clinical efficacy.

Graphical Abstract
Gravity gradient model of the Antarctic region derived from airborne gravity and DEM
Authors: Shi Zhimin , Liang Xinghui , Liu Jinzhao , Ye Zhourun , Lang Junjian , Zhou Zhibo , Liu Lintao
Published: January 2025

In this paper, we augment airborne gravity anomaly data from Antarctica, expanding the coverage area by 10.4% based on the existing data set. These data are combined with a gravity field model to establish a more comprehensive gravity anomaly database for Antarctica. Utilizing the Integral of Stokes Kernels' Derivatives (ISKD) method, we create the first 10 km resolution gravity gradient map in the Antarctic region. According to measured data in the McFaulds Lake (located in the James Bay lowlands of northern Ontario, Canada), the proposed method achieves a calculation accuracy with a standard deviation (Std.) of 3–7 E (

$$1 \text{E}=1\times {10}^{-9}{s}^{-2}$$

1
E
=
1
×

10

-
9

s

-
2

) in

$$Txx$$

Txx

,

$$Tyy$$

Tyy

,

$$Txy$$

Txy

,

$$Txz$$

Txz

,

$$Tyz$$

Tyz

, and 12.9 E in

$$Tzz$$

Tzz

. The calculated gravity gradient effectively reveals density boundaries in Antarctica. This research lays the groundwork for future studies exploring the gravitational characteristics of Antarctica on a broader scale.

Graphical Abstract
The gendering of programmers’ work: taking China’s IT industry as an example
Authors: Li Xiaotian
Published: January 2025

This paper discusses the gendering of programmers’ work in China at both the occupational and work organization levels: the dichotomy between social and technical aspects in programming work leads to a gendered hierarchical division of labor that undermines the legitimacy of women programmers’ professional identities. Additionally, the combination of the overtime culture in technology companies and traditional gender role expectations makes women more likely to face work‒family conflicts. This paper uses the concept of embodiment to analyze women’s experiences of exclusion and women’s motivation to reconcile their gender and occupational identities and plan their career development. Thus, it simultaneously reveals how gender rules operate and how they may be changed in programming work.
Impact of Lower-Volume Training on Physical Fitness Adaptations in Team Sports Players: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Clemente Filipe Manuel , Ramirez-Campillo Rodrigo , Moran Jason , Zmijewski Piotr , Silva Rui Miguel , Randers Morten Bredsgaard
Published: January 2025

Background

A small number of reviews have explored lower- versus higher-volume training in non-athletes, but the growing challenge of congested schedules in team sports highlights the need to synthesize evidence specific to team sport athletes. Thus, the objectives of this systematic review with meta-analysis are twofold: (i) to summarize the primary physiological and physical fitness outcomes of lower-volume versus higher-volume training interventions in team sports players; and (ii) to compare the effects of lower-volume training with higher, considering the training modalities used.

Methods

We conducted searches across key databases, including PubMed, Scopus, SPORTDiscus, and Web of Science. We included team sports players with at least a trained or developmental level, focusing on studies comparing different training volumes (lower vs higher) within the same research. Lower volume training was defined in comparison to another load, emphasizing smaller training volume in terms of repetitions, duration, or frequency. The studies had to examine key physical performance adaptations and use two-arm or multi-arm designs. Methodological assessments of the included studies were performed using the Rob2 and ROBINS-I instruments, with evidence certainty evaluated through GRADE.

Results

The initial search yielded 5,188 records, with 17 articles deemed eligible for the review. There was a non-significant trend favoring the higher-volume training group over the lower-volume group in resistance-based training when considering all pooled physical fitness outcomes (effect size − 0.05, 95% CI − 0.19 to 0.09, p = 0.506, I
2 = 0.0%). A meta-analysis was not conducted for aerobic-based training due to only two studies being available, with one showing that lower volume training improved maximal oxygen uptake by 3.8% compared to 1.3% for higher volume, while the other indicated that lower training volumes enhanced performance by 1.6% versus 0.8%. The evidence certainty for physical performance outcomes was very low.

Conclusions

In newly introduced resistance training, lower volumes—regardless of repetitions or frequency—can achieve similar fitness gains to higher volumes. More pronounced tapering also appears more effective for supercompensation. However, the variability in study designs and training methods makes it difficult to establish a clear minimal dose. The main contribution of this review is mapping current research, providing a foundation for future studies and training optimization.
Bispecific antibodies and CLEM: an analytical approach to advanced cell imaging for therapeutic strategies
Authors: Kim Han-ul , Kim Young Kwan
Published: January 2025

The development of bispecific antibodies (BsAbs) represents a significant advancement in therapeutic antibody design, enabling the simultaneous targeting of two different antigens. This dual-targeting capability enhances therapeutic efficacy, particularly in complex diseases like cancer, where tumor heterogeneity presents a significant challenge for traditional treatments. By bridging two distinct pathways, BsAbs can improve specificity and minimize off-target effects, making them invaluable in therapeutic contexts. Integrating advanced imaging techniques, particularly Correlative Light and Electron Microscopy (CLEM), offers a unique opportunity to visualize the dynamic interactions of BsAbs within cellular environments. CLEM combines the strengths of optical and electron microscopy, allowing researchers to observe real-time antibody-antigen interactions at nanoscale resolution. This synergy not only deepens our understanding of BsAbs’ mechanisms of action but also provides critical insights into their spatial distribution, binding kinetics, and functional dynamics in live cells. In this review, the integration of BsAbs and CLEM paves the way for targeted therapeutic strategies, fostering the development of more effective treatments that can adapt to the complexities of disease pathology.
Association of VEGF promoter polymorphisms with gastrointestinal tract cancer risk and therapy response: a systematic review
Authors: Mahajan Deepanshi , Sambyal Vasudha , Guleria Kamlesh
Published: January 2025

Background

Gastrointestinal tract (GIT) cancers are the most lethal cancers with a high incidence and poor prognosis. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) glycoprotein plays an essential role in tumour neovascularization, especially in cancers of the gastrointestinal tract. There are numerous functional polymorphisms reported in the VEGF which lead to either upregulation or downregulation of VEGF expression.

Objective

The present review focuses on the role of VEGF functional polymorphisms in influencing the risk and prognosis of various GIT cancers.

Method of study

This systematic review was done by Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, and Participant, Intervention, Comparison, Outcomes and Studies (PICOS) criteria were followed for designing the study. A total of 183 articles were retrieved from Google Scholar, PubMed and ScienceDirect using various keywords. After full-text evaluation and applying the literature selection criteria, 108 articles were selected in the review. The role of VEGF promoter polymorphisms in influencing various transcription factor binding sites (TFBS) in the VEGF promoter was studied by performing an in silico analysis.

Results

This review article summarized the findings of the studies on the associations of VEGF promoter polymorphisms with various GIT cancers. The effect of the VEGF promoter polymorphisms on cancer risk and prognosis varied between different ethnicities and different GIT cancers. The in silico analysis revealed that the VEGF polymorphisms alter the TFBS, leading to attenuation of the functional activity of the transcription factors which might have importance in the GIT cancer development.

Conclusion

VEGF is as an important biomarker for studying the disease susceptibility, progression and prognosis in GIT cancers.
Apoptosis induction and tumor growth suppression by hydroxyapatite nanoparticles–cisplatin combined treatment in Ehrlich solid carcinoma-bearing mice
Authors: Eissa Shaymaa M. , Mahfouz Asmaa M. , El-Gendy Saad M. , Zakaria Al-shimaa , Effat Heba , Mohamed Hanan R. H.
Published: January 2025

Background

Hydroxyapatite (HAP) resembles the components of biological hard tissue. Recent research has been interested in the biomedical application of HAP nanoparticles (HAP-NPs) in cancer treatment, HAP-NPs have high cytotoxic activity against cancerous cells, in addition, they are nontoxic to healthy normal cells, biocompatible, biodegradable, and have a high absorption rate within the tissue. Therefore, this study evaluated HAP-NPs' antitumoral activity in Ehrlich solid carcinoma (ESC)-bearing mice, in addition, we examined the anticancer efficacy of combined treatment of a common chemotherapeutic drug such as Cisplatin (CDDP) and HAP-NPs in ESC-bearing mice.

Methods

Forty female mice were inoculated with 200 µl of diluted ascites fluid containing approximately two million viable cancer cells in the mice's left thigh, after 14 days of inoculation, the mice were distributed into four groups: 10 mice in each. ESC group was administrated distilled water, the HAP-NPs group was treated orally with 100 mg/kg of hydroxyapatite nanoparticles, the CDDP group was administrated intraperitoneally with 5 mg/kg of Cisplatin, the HAP-NPs + CDDP group was treated with both doses of hydroxyapatite and cisplatin, the animal treatment was conducted for 20 days. Antitumor activity was assessed for two durations after 10 and 20 days. DNA damage assessment was performed using comet assay in ESC, in addition, we measured the expression of the following genes (P53, Bcl2, and Bax,) using quantitative real-time PCR, and the apoptotic-related proteins (P53 and Ki-67) using immunohistochemical analysis. A histopathological examination of ESC was performed.

Results

The obtained data illustrated a promising anticancer activity of HAP-NPs, and the combined treatment of HAP-NPs and CDDP illustrated a higher anticancer efficacy. HAP-NPs, CDDP, and HAP-NPs + CDDP resulted in significant (P < 0.05) nucleic acid destruction, and significant (P < 0.05) overexpression of apoptotic-related genes (P53, Bax, and Bcl2) and proteins (Ki-67 and P53), causing the tumor bulk to be greatly reduced in HAP-NPs, CDDP, and HAP-NPs + CDDP (1100, 570, and 450 mm3), respectively, compared to ESC group was 2240 mm3.

Conclusion

Hydroxyapatite nanoparticles can provoke DNA damage and regulate apoptosis, selectively eliminating tumor cells. The co-administration of HAP-NPs and CDDP resulted in a synergistic enhancement of cisplatin activity within the tumor tissue.
Assessing prevalence and predictors of impaired awareness of hypoglycemia in type 2 diabetes patients with chronic kidney disease
Authors: Soliman Amin , Atef El Kordy Noran , Mostafa Faris Farouk , Mahmoud Ahmed Rabab
Published: January 2025

Background

This study aims to determine the prevalence of impaired awareness of hypoglycemia (IAH) across all chronic kidney disease stages in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and to identify predictors of impaired awareness of hypoglycemia within these patients.

Methods

Clinical and laboratory data were extracted from patient medical records. Participants were interviewed using validated modified Clarke’s questionnaire and Gold score to assess impaired awareness of hypoglycemia.

Results

Cross sectional study included 480 participants diagnosed with chronic kidney disease and type 2 diabetes. The overall prevalence of impaired awareness of hypoglycemia (IAH) was 34.6% (166 patients) according to the Clarke questionnaire and 34.4% by the Gold Score (165 patients). This prevalence varied significantly across different CKD stages, with higher rates in stage 3 (P value = 0.001). The mean impaired awareness of hypoglycemia scores were 3.98 ± 1.34 (Clarke) and 3.92 ± 1.52 (Gold), with advanced CKD stages showing statistically significant elevated scores (p value ≤ 0.05). In the 166 patients with impaired awareness of hypoglycemia, a statistically significant higher incidence of severe hypoglycemia was observed in hemodialysis patients (p value = 0.01). Most of patients with impaired awareness of hypoglycemia aged > 60 years, had more prevalent hypertension and had lower HbA1c levels (P value ≤ 0.05). However, Multivariate logistic regression analysis found that age > 60 years was a significant independent risk factor with an 8% higher risk for IAH (P = 0.01), (OR 1.08, 95% CI 1.01–1.16).

Conclusion

The present study is unique in investigating impaired awareness of hypoglycemia (IAH) across the full spectrum of chronic kidney disease (CKD) stages, including patients on hemodialysis. Approximately one-third of CKD patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus exhibited a general lack of awareness of hypoglycemia. Patients with stage 3 CKD showed the highest prevalence of IAH. Those already experiencing IAH and receiving hemodialysis faced more severe hypoglycemic episodes. Age over 60 years was an independent risk factor for hypoglycemia unawareness in this patient group. Larger wide scale studies are needed to further validate these results.
The effect of bilingualism on obligatory components of auditory late responses in young adults: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Hajimohammadi Ali , Heidari Fatemeh
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Bilingualism significantly contributes to neuroplasticity in the brain, with research indicating enhanced auditory processing in bilingual individuals. Obligatory sensory components of the auditory late responses (ALRs) reflect primary and secondary auditory cortex activity, serving as an electrophysiological measure of auditory processing. This study aims to compare ALRs' obligatory components (P1-N1-P2) in bilingual (Turkish-Persian) and monolingual (Persian) young adults.

Method

This cross-sectional study analyzed ALRs in 28 monolingual and 28 bilingual participants aged 19 to 30 years, using a 70 dB nHL speech stimulus (/da/). ALRs were recorded monaurally with insert earphones. The study then compared the mean latency and amplitude of P1- N1- P2 complex in the right and left ear between two groups.

Result

The study revealed shorter latency for all three ALRs components in bilingual participants compared to monolinguals. This difference was statistically significant (P-value < 0.05) for N1 with right ear stimulation and P2 with right and left ear stimulations. No significant differences were found in the amplitude of P1-N1 and N1-P2 between the groups.

Conclusion

The significant reduction in N1 and P2 latency observed in bilingual subjects' ALRs likely results from neural plasticity. This may enhance neural transmission and accelerate speech sound processing in the respective cortical regions. These latency changes could serve as a cortical neural biomarker distinguishing monolinguals from bilinguals, highlighting the impact of bilingualism on auditory processing efficiency.
Static Planck stars from effective loop quantum gravity
Authors: Wilson-Ewing Edward
Published: January 2025

Effective loop quantum gravity dynamics are derived for spherically symmetric spacetimes with a perfect fluid matter content. For homogeneous spacetimes, the effective dynamics agree with the standard results of loop quantum cosmology, while the equations for static solutions give an effective Tolman-Oppenheimer-Volkoff equation. There exist solutions to the effective Tolman-Oppenheimer-Volkoff equation that have a mass of the order of the Planck mass, a Planckian radius, and no horizon; these miniature stars could potentially contribute to dark matter, and could be an end state for an evaporating black hole.
Maternal Fasting Plasma Glucose Level in Early Gestation and Developmental Delay in 2-year-old Children
Authors: Kawaguchi Chikana , Ishikuro Mami , Saito Ryota , Murakami Keiko , Noda Aoi , Shinoda Genki , Aizawa Misato , Ohseto Hisashi , Iwama Noriyuki , Orui Masatsugu , Obara Taku , Kuriyama Shinichi
Published: January 2025

Background

The association of maternal hyperglycemia with childhood developmental delay has been examined; however, only 2 studies used maternal blood glucose level as a continuous variable as an exposure. A present study aimed to investigate the influence of maternal fasting plasma glucose (mFPG) level in early gestation on developmental delay in children.

Methods

This cohort study included 1541 mother–child pairs who participated in the Tohoku Medical Megabank Project Birth and Three-Generation Cohort Study. mFPG level before 24 gestational weeks was obtained as a continuous and categorical variable. Developmental delay in 2-year-old children was assessed by mothers using the Ages and Stages Questionnaire (third edition). Associations between mFPG level and developmental delay in children were evaluated using multiple logistic regression analyses.

Results

The prevalence of mFPG level ≥95 mg/dL was 5.2%. At 2 years old, 15.1% of the children had developmental delays. mFPG level as a continuous variable was not associated with an increased risk of developmental delay across the 5 domains in children [adjusted odds ratio (aOR), 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.004, 0.990-1.018]. mFPG level ≤70 mg/dL was associated with developmental delay across 5 domains (aOR, 95% CI: 0.464, 0.229-0.943) in children than that with a mFPG level 71 to 94 mg/dL. No association was found between mFPG level ≤70 mg/dL and ≥95 mg/dL and developmental delay in any domains among children.

Conclusion

mFPG level in early gestation was not associated with an increased risk of any developmental delays in 2-year-old children.