bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Is There a Difference in the Perception of City in Pre-Pandemic and Peri-Pandemic on Social Media? Case Study from Taiwan
Authors: Chen Yulin
Published: January 2025

The purpose of this study was to consolidate machine learning applications and develop a method to simultaneously analyze unstructured text and images pertaining to travel and tourism. This paper extracted city-related tourist-generated content from social media posts and analyzed this content to elucidate public perception of Taipei and identify the factors that make these posts attractive. Amidst the global COVID-19 pandemic of the early 2020s, this study examines social media discourse on urban topics. Focused on the period from 2019 to 2020, it compares content to discern shifts in societal concerns amidst the pandemic’s progression. The analysis aims to illuminate evolving thematic patterns within city-related discussions against the backdrop of this unprecedented public health crisis. Several techniques and technologies, including content mining, Google Cloud Vision AI, topic modeling, and artificial intelligence machine learning were adopted to analyze the images and interactive characteristics of tourist-generated content relating to the city imagery and tourism transformation of Taipei. The data analyzed in this study was collected from Facebook, and RapidMiner was employed as the mining environment to apply topic modeling to identify the topics in tourist-generated content relating to Taipei before and during the pandemic and elucidate expectations and topic evolutions; and extract meaning images and text from the topics and combine them with interactive data from social media posts to identify the topics inductive to the public at different periods of the pandemic. The main graphic theme before the epidemic was to convey the charm of Taipei, compared to the graphic theme during the epidemic, which shifted to a nature-based image.
Effects of Learning Multiple Foreign Languages on Learners’ Social Emotional Competence Development
Authors: Zhang Fang , Yu Wenjun , Xu Hao
Published: January 2025

This paper reports on a study that investigates the impact of learning multiple foreign languages on learners’ social emotional competence development as mediated by the number of foreign languages and the recency of the learning experience. A questionnaire survey that involved 465 Chinese learners of foreign languages was administered that elicited their self-evaluation reports on how their foreign language learning experiences impacted on the 12 components of social emotional competence development which covered the five major dimensions of social emotional learning. Results demonstrate a delayed effect of multiple foreign language learning on social emotional competence development, that is, while learner’s social emotional competence is significantly influenced by their previous foreign language learning experience, their on-going multiple foreign language learning does not seem to constitute an overall influence, which is confined to only a few social emotional competence components. The results also demonstrate that the components which are significantly influenced by the number of foreign languages are mostly related to the cognitive aspects of social emotional competence, while the components which do not seem to be significantly influenced tend to be related to the behavioral aspects.
Environmental Social Governance (ESG) in Digitalization research: A bibliometric analysis
Authors: Tan Qin Lingda , Hashim Sharizal , Zheng Zhangwei
Published: January 2025

In the last decade, the intersection of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles with digital innovation has become a crucial area of research, highlighted by the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals and the emerging focus on Digital ESG (DESG). Despite rapid advancements, a unified theoretical framework for DESG remains undefined. This study conducts a bibliometric analysis on 455 Scopus-indexed documents to map the current landscape, themes, and future directions of ESG digitalization research. The review reveals a multidisciplinary interest, primarily within business management, with significant contributions from China, Malaysia, and the United States—indicating their leadership potential in ESG digitalization. This study spotlights key researchers and emphasizes foundational work’s critical role in enhancing understanding of DESG and ESG’s impact on consumer behavior, laying essential groundwork for deeper insights and future explorations into the effects of ESG values on consumer attitudes.
Unlocking the Power of Online Assessments in EFL Education: Teachers’ and Students’ Perceptions
Authors: Alzubi Ali Abbas Falah , Nazim Mohd
Published: January 2025

In online learning, many teachers have adopted traditional assessment methods in offline assessments without adequately testing and assessing the consequences. Therefore, this descriptive study aims to identify teachers’ and students’ perceptions of online assessments in evaluating English as a Foreign Language (EFL) students’ learning. A convenient sample of teachers and students was recruited to respond to a questionnaire on their beliefs about and reported use of online assessment methods through management learning systems. Additionally, semi-structured interviews were conducted to explore participants’ experiences with online assessment. The results demonstrated that teachers’ and students’ beliefs regarding online assessments for EFL learning were moderate, indicating a shared but cautious acceptance of these methods. The analysis revealed no significant differences in perceptions based on participants’ roles, suggesting a common understanding of the challenges and benefits of online assessments among educators and learners alike. Qualitative responses highlighted six key themes: the nature of online assessments, time and effort required, performance outcomes, psychological pressure experienced, and overall user experience, reflecting the concerns regarding technological readiness, academic integrity, and the need for more diverse assessment methods. To enhance the effectiveness of online assessments in the EFL context, the study recommends ensuring a robust technological infrastructure, offering comprehensive training for teachers on various online assessment methods, diversifying assessment techniques to capture a broader range of student abilities, and fostering a culture of ethical assessment practices through close monitoring of student work.
Within-Day Diversity Change, Neighborhood Social Cohesion, and Fear of Crime
Authors: Hess Chris , Yi Youngmin , Sharp Gregory , Hall Matt
Published: January 2025

Research on neighborhood social organization and crime typically conceptualizes neighborhood change on the order of decades, even though the local social contexts that individuals experience change daily through mobility for work, errands and recreation. In this study, the authors analyze data from the Seattle Neighborhoods and Crime Survey linked to the Census Transportation Planning Products to investigate whether within-day changes in neighborhood diversity are associated with an individual’s social cohesion and fear of crime. The authors find that individuals living in neighborhoods where diversity increases during the daytime tend to report more social cohesion and relatively less fear of crime. Importantly, these relationships are observed only among white respondents, with implications for whether processes of racialization in diverse neighborhood contexts account for this tendency. Results from this study highlight how the “mobility turn” within theories about neighborhood effects would benefit from considering how the contexts themselves change throughout the day.
Dalit Emancipatory Movements and Ambedkar’s Neo-Buddhism: An Assessment
Authors: Rajan Mavali , Barman Binay
Published: January 2025

This study analyses the Dalit emancipatory initiatives of Dr B. R. Ambedkar and his continuous effort to effect radical social change in modern India. In a land where many social reformers of all hues pitched in against the injustices and inequities besetting the Dalit communities, few succeeded in leaving their mark to the extent that Ambedkar did. He counts among the few who have successfully worked to uplift the suppressed communities, women, backward castes and minorities as he dedicated his life to ensuring their human dignity and self-respect. The Hindu social structure built on the varna system, to Ambedkar, breeds inequality and nurtures the caste system along with the attendant practices like untouchability—inequality in its most atrocious form. Hence, he believed that the most effective path to social justice for the Dalit community was a complete break away from the Hindu fold by converting to another religion. He favoured and chose Buddhism as the least harmful option, also due to the fact that he considered Buddhism ‘part and parcel of Bharatiya culture’. Apart from urging members of the depressed communities to take the path of conversion, he wanted to usher in radical social change and an ideological revolution in the Hindu mind.
Hyperoxia-activated Nrf2 regulates ferroptosis in intestinal epithelial cells and intervenes in inflammatory reaction through COX-2/PGE2/EP2 pathway
Authors: Liu Yanping , Li Tianming , Niu Changping , Yuan Zhengwei , Sun Siyu , Liu Dongyan
Published: January 2025

The lack of knowledge about the mechanism of hyperoxia-induced intestinal injury has attracted considerable attention, due to the potential for this condition to cause neonatal complications. This study aimed to explore the relationship between hyperoxia-induced oxidative damage and ferroptosis in intestinal tissue and investigate the mechanism by which hyperoxia regulates inflammation through ferroptosis. The study systematically evaluated the effects of hyperoxia on oxidative stress, mitochondrial damage, ferroptosis, and inflammation of intestinal epithelial cells both in vitro and in vivo. The results showed that ferroptosis was involved in intestinal oxidative damage caused by hyperoxia and was regulated by Nrf2. Moreover, hyperoxia-induced oxidative damage regulated inflammation through ferroptosis by upregulating the COX-2/PGE2/EP2 signaling pathway. These findings have important implications for future clinical prevention and therapeutic approaches to neonatal organ injury caused by hyperoxia treatment.
Transcriptome and DNA methylation profiling during the NSN to SN transition in mouse oocytes
Authors: Demond Hannah , Khan Soumen , Castillo-Fernandez Juan , Hanna Courtney W. , Kelsey Gavin
Published: January 2025

Background

During the latter stages of their development, mammalian oocytes under dramatic chromatin reconfiguration, transitioning from a non-surrounded nucleolus (NSN) to a surrounded nucleolus (SN) stage, and concomitant transcriptional silencing. Although the NSN-SN transition is known to be essential for developmental competence of the oocyte, less is known about the accompanying molecular changes. Here we examine the changes in the transcriptome and DNA methylation during the NSN to SN transition in mouse oocytes.

Results

To study the transcriptome and DNA methylation dynamics during the NSN to SN transition, we used single-cell (sc)M&T-seq to generate scRNA-seq and sc-bisulphite-seq (scBS-seq) data from GV oocytes classified as NSN or SN by Hoechst staining of their nuclei. Transcriptome analysis showed a lower number of detected transcripts in SN compared with NSN oocytes as well as downregulation of 576 genes, which were enriched for processes related to mRNA processing. We used the transcriptome data to generate a classifier that can infer chromatin stage in scRNA-seq datasets. The classifier was successfully tested in multiple published datasets of mouse models with a known skew in NSN: SN ratios. Analysis of the scBS-seq data showed increased DNA methylation in SN compared to NSN oocytes, which was most pronounced in regions with intermediate levels of methylation. Overlap with chromatin immunoprecipitation and sequencing (ChIP-seq) data for the histone modifications H3K36me3, H3K4me3 and H3K27me3 showed that regions gaining methylation in SN oocytes are enriched for overlapping H3K36me3 and H3K27me3, which is an unusual combination, as these marks do not typically coincide.

Conclusions

We characterise the transcriptome and DNA methylation changes accompanying the NSN-SN transition in mouse oocytes. We develop a classifier that can be used to infer chromatin status in single-cell or bulk RNA-seq data, enabling identification of altered chromatin transition in genetic knock-outs, and a quality control to identify skewed NSN-SN proportions that could otherwise confound differential gene expression analysis. We identify late-methylating regions in SN oocytes that are associated with an unusual combination of chromatin modifications, which may be regions with high chromatin plasticity and transitioning between H3K27me3 and H3K36me3, or reflect heterogeneity on a single-cell level.
Population structure and genetic diversity of Toona sinensis revealed by whole-genome resequencing
Authors: Wang Lei , Lu Chang , Bao Zhi-Gang , Li Meng , Wu Fusheng , Lu Yi-Zeng , Tong Bo-Qiang , Yu Mei , Zhao Yong-Jun
Published: January 2025

Objectives

Toona sinensis, commonly known as Chinese toon, is a perennial woody plant with significant economic and ecological importance. This study employed whole-genome resequencing of 180 T. sinensis samples collected from Shandong to analyze genetic variation and diversity, ultimately identifying 18,231 high-quality SNPs after rigorous quality control and linkage disequilibrium pruning. This comprehensive genomic resource provides novel insights into the genetic architecture of T. sinensis, facilitating the elucidation of population structure and supporting future breeding programs.

Data description

We performed whole-genome resequencing on 180 Toona sinensis samples, generating 1170.26 Gbp of clean data with a Q30 percentage of 93.69%. The average alignment rate to the reference genome was 96.72%, with an average coverage depth of 8 × and a genome coverage of 88.71%. Following data quality control and alignment, we performed SNP calling and filtering to identify high-quality SNPs across all samples. Population structure analyses were then conducted using the identified SNPs, including principal component analysis (PCA), structure analysis, and phylogenetic tree construction. These comprehensive analyses provide a foundation for understanding the genetic diversity and evolutionary dynamics of T. sinensis.
Risk factors for bloodstream infection in COVID-19 patients in intensive care units: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Wang Jun , Jiang Ting
Published: January 2025

Background

Risk factors for bloodstream infection in patients with COVID-19 in the intensive care unit (ICU) remain unclear. The purpose of this systematic review was to study the risk factors for BSI in patients admitted to ICUs for COVID-19.

Methods

A systematic search was performed on PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science up to July 2024. Data were reported as combined odds ratio (OR) for categorical variables and weighted mean difference (WMD) for continuous variables.

Results

6914 studies were retrieved, of which 55 were included in the meta-analysis. Men (OR = 1.28, 95% CI: 1.10–1.50, P = 0.006), high SAPS II score (WMD = 6.43, 95% CI: 0.23–12.63, P = 0.042), diabetes (OR = 1.34, 95% CI: 1.04–1.73, P = 0.022), tracheal intubation (OR = 8.68, 95% CI: 4.68–16.08, P < 0.001), mechanical ventilation (OR = 22.00, 95% CI: 3.77-128.328, P < 0.001), ECMO (OR = 2.70, 95% CI: 1.17–6.26, P = 0.020), central venous cannulation (OR = 9.33, 95% CI: 3.06–28.43, P < 0.001), prolonged ICU stay (WMD = 10.37, 95% CI: 9.29–11.44, P < 0.001), methylprednisolone use (OR = 2.24, 95% CI: 1.24–4.04, P = 0.008), and the combination of methylprednisolone and Tocilizumab (OR = 4.54, 95% CI: 1.09–18.88, P = 0.037) were risk factors for ICU-BSI in COVID-19 patients.

Conclusion

We identified 10 risk factors for ICU-BSI in COVID-19 patients. In future studies, these factors can be combined to establish a more comprehensive and accurate prediction model for ICU-BSI in COVID-19 patients. Targeted measures can be taken earlier to control BSI.
Is it possible for parents to endure a stillbirth? Initial experiences, perceptions and strategies: individual in-depth interviews in Sweden 2021–2023
Authors: Höglund Berit , Hildingsson Ingegerd
Published: January 2025

Background

Stillbirth occurs at a rate of 3.0 per thousand in Sweden. However, few studies have focused on the initial experiences of parents facing a stillbirth. The aim of this qualitative study is to deepen and broadly explore parents’ initial experiences, perceptions, internal processes and strategies from the moment of suspicion or awareness of stillbirth until one month after the event.

Methods

Ten individual in-depth interviews were conducted between 2021 and 2023, and data were evaluated using thematic network analysis.

Results

Two key themes emerged: ‘Following the journey – from suspicion to acceptance’ and ‘Support, structured activities and processes after stillbirth’. These themes captured the significant consequences of a sudden, unexpected and devastating end to pregnancy. The suspicion and eventual diagnosis of stillbirth were initially associated with sudden discomfort, fear, overwhelming grief, and intense pain. Nevertheless, a vaginal birth was regarded as the optimal mode of delivery for both physical and emotional wellbeing. Caring for the stillborn baby through physical proximity for an extended period of time helped parents comprehend and cope with their grief, while also affirming their sense of parenthood.

Conclusions

This study sheds light on the profound and devastating impact of stillbirth on parents who are confronted with the loss of their long-awaited and cherished baby. The intense grief and pain experienced by parents during the first month after stillbirth were described as an ongoing heavy burden, persisting day and night, and reflected in poor/very poor mental health. Despite the immense challenges faced by parents, the study highlights the importance of developing individual coping strategies to deal with this tragic and irreversible life-changing event.
Identifying psychosocial predictors and developing a risk score for preterm birth among Kenyan pregnant women
Authors: Larsen Anna , Pintye Jillian , Abuna Felix , Dettinger Julia C. , Gomez Laurén , Marwa Mary M. , Ngumbau Nancy , Odhiambo Ben , Richardson Barbra A. , Watoyi Salphine , Stern Joshua , Kinuthia John , John-Stewart Grace
Published: January 2025

Background

Preterm birth (PTB) is a leading cause of neonatal mortality, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa where 40% of global neonatal deaths occur. We identified and combined demographic, clinical, and psychosocial correlates of PTB among Kenyan women to develop a risk score.

Methods

We used data from a prospective study enrolling HIV-negative women from 20 antenatal clinics in Western Kenya (NCT03070600). Depressive symptoms were assessed by study nurses using the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CESD-10), intimate partner violence (IPV) with the Hurt, Insult, Threaten, Scream scale (HITS), and social support using the Medical Outcomes Survey scale (MOS-SSS). Predictors of PTB (birth < 37 weeks gestation) were identified using multivariable Cox proportional hazards models, clustered by facility. We used stratified k-fold cross-validation methods for risk score derivation and validation. Area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC) was used to evaluate discrimination of the risk score and Brier score for calibration.

Results

Among 4084 women, 19% had PTB (incidence rate: 70.9 PTB per 100 fetus-years (f-yrs)). Predictors of PTB included being unmarried (HR:1.29, 95% CI:1.08–1.54), lower education (years) (HR:0.97, 95% CI:0.94–0.99), IPV (HITS score ≥ 5, HR:1.28, 95% CI:0.98–1.68), higher CESD-10 score (HR:1.02, 95% CI:0.99–1.04), lower social support score (HR:0.99, 95% CI:0.97–1.01), and mild-to-severe depressive symptoms (CESD-10 score ≥ 5, HR:1.46, 95% CI:1.07–1.99). The final risk score included being unmarried, social support score, IPV, and MSD. The risk score had modest discrimination between PTB and term deliveries (AUROC:0.56, 95% CI:0.54–0.58), and Brier Score was 0.4672. Women considered “high risk” for PTB (optimal risk score cut-point) had 40% higher risk of PTB (83.6 cases per 100 f-yrs) than “low risk” women (59.6 cases per 100 f-ys; HR:1.6, 95% CI:1.2–1.7, p < 0.001).

Conclusion

A fifth of pregnancies were PTB in this large multi-site cohort; PTB was associated with several social factors amenable to intervention. Combining these factors in a risk score did not predict PTB, reflecting the multifactorial nature of PTB and need to include other unmeasured factors. However, our findings suggest PTB risk could be better understood by integrating mental health and support services into routine antenatal care.
Correlates of condom use among school-going Thai adolescents: the critical role of bullying victimizations
Authors: Dadras Omid
Published: January 2025

Background

Adolescents face numerous challenges that influence their sexual behaviors. Among these, bullying victimization is a critical yet understudied factor that may impact engagement in unprotected sex. This study investigated the correlates of condom use among school-going Thai adolescents, with a main focus on bullying victimization.

Methods

This study is a secondary analysis of the Global School-based Student Health Survey (GSHS) conducted in 2021 among a nationally representative sample of students in grades 7–12 in Thailand. The analysis included all the sexually active students with condom use in the last sex as the main outcome variable. Bivariate binary logistic regression analysis was used to examine the odds of using condom across various explanatory variables. Additional adjusted logistic regression models were constructed to examine the association between bullying experiences and condom use while controlling for the potential confounding effect of other explanatory variables.

Results

Among sexually active participants, 416 (69%) reported using condoms in their last sex and more than half of them reported bullying experiences. Besides bullying, this study identifies several factors such as older age (< 14) and higher grades that were associated with lower use of condoms. Additionally, other psychosocial factors such as suicidal ideation and attempts as well as physical violence, and lack of close friends decrease the odds of condom use. Substance use, particularly marijuana and amphetamine/methamphetamine, was also associated with lower condom use. Although all types of bullying experiences were associated with lower condom use in bivariate analyses, the association remained significant only for bullying at school in the adjusted model (AOR = 0.39, 95% CI: 0.18–0.86).

Conclusion

The findings emphasize a holistic approach to addressing bullying, particularly within schools, and promoting protected sexual behaviors among school-going adolescents through early anti-bullying interventions and incorporating tailored sex education into school curricula, and at Thai schools.
Place-based household vouchers for locally supplied fruit and vegetables: the Fresh Street pilot cluster randomised controlled trial
Authors: Relton C. , Blake M. K. , Bridge G. , Umney D. , Taylor S. J. C. , Adams J. , Mihaylova B. , Griffiths C. , Hooper R. , Phillips R. , Palmer L. , Gamston A. , Williamson K.
Published: January 2025

Background

Households in areas of socio-economic deprivation are more likely to consume diets low in fruit and vegetables. Fresh Street is a place-based fruit and vegetable voucher scheme with vouchers redeemable with local independent (non-supermarket) vendors. Paper vouchers are offered to all households in a geographical area regardless of household type, size, or income with no requirement to demonstrate need. The regular shareable vouchers are combined with recipes and dietary information to increase exposure to healthy food prompts, reduce food insecurity, increase fruit and vegetable consumption, improve dietary quality, and support healthy dietary habits.

This study aimed to inform a randomised controlled trial (RCT) to assess the impact of Fresh Street on a range of public health outcomes.

Methods

The pilot cluster RCT took place in three inner city areas of high socioeconomic deprivation in England (Tower Hamlets, Bradford, and Doncaster). New systems for managing vouchers and doorstep delivering weekly envelopes to households were developed. Weekly envelopes containing vouchers (5 x £1), a healthy seasonal recipe and brief nutritional information were offered to all households in nine intervention streets. Nine control streets received no intervention. Household surveys collected information on fruit and vegetable consumption, diet quality, and household characteristics.

Results

The household survey response rate was below the 50% target for progression to the main trial. Most local fruit and vegetable vendors accepted vouchers. Three quarters or more of households regularly accepted the envelopes. The scheme was well received by households, local vendors and local public health teams. Household uptake of the scheme was highest in Tower Hamlets (75%) and Bradford (83%). The mean weekly voucher redemption was highest in Tower Hamlets (£3.26) and Bradford (£2.82), where the scheme ran longest, and where vendors were nearby.

Conclusions

This was the first pilot RCT of a place-based, household voucher approach. The newly developed system for securely printing and redeeming the vouchers worked well and is potentially scalable.

Future trials should consider alternative methods of assessing the impact on households and explore more efficient ways to deliver the intervention e.g. through collaborative working with local resources such as community centres.
Generation Victoria (GenV): protocol for a longitudinal birth cohort of Victorian children and their parents
Authors: Hughes Elizabeth K. , Siero William , Gülenç Alisha , Clifford Susan A. , Frugier Tony , Hall Simon M. , Mohal Jatender , North Kathryn , Zaritski Natasha , Goldfeld Sharon , Saffery Richard , Wake Melissa
Published: January 2025

Background

In a world confronted with new and connected challenges, novel strategies are needed to help children and adults achieve their full potential, to predict, prevent and treat disease, and to achieve equity in services and outcomes. Australia’s Generation Victoria (GenV) cohorts are designed for multi-pronged discovery (what could improve outcomes?) and intervention research (what actually works, how much and for whom?). Here, we describe the key features of its protocol.

Methods

GenV is a whole-population longitudinal platform open to all ≈150,000 children born within a two-year window and residing in the state of Victoria and their parents. GenV is guided by its 6 principles of Inclusivity, Collaboration, Sustainability, Enhancement, Systematised Processes and Value and enabled by large-scale biobanking, IT and novel high-throughput technology infrastructure. Successive recruitment phases were designed to maximise GenV’s inclusivity: (1) a smaller Advance Cohort from December 2020; (2) Newborn recruitment, with presence in 58 Victorian maternity services supporting face-to-face approach to parents of babies born 4 October 2021–3 October 2023; (3) Intensive remote recruitment to mid-2024 targeting those missed around birth; and (4) Ongoing indefinite enrolment of in-age children and their parents. Participants consent to universal (1) data linkage (e.g., state and federal physical and mental health, education, social, geospatial, ecological); (2) biosamples storage and use (e.g., residual clinical pregnancy and newborn screening, GenV-collected perinatal parent/infant saliva); (3) phenotypic and biosamples collection waves at child ages 6, 11 and 16 years, likely in schools and remotely for parents; and (4) opportunities for collaborative research integrated into GenV as a population registry (e.g., trials, natural experiments, depth subcohorts). Many participants supplement universal data with additional biosamples (e.g., infant stool, breast milk) and brief digital remote ‘GenV and Me’ assessments over the first 5 years. GenV will make all research data available, adhering to the principles of Open Science.

Discussion

Launched in the COVID-19 pandemic and committed to diversity and inclusivity, GenV’s parallel consented child and pre-midlife cohorts will be positioned to help address today’s pressing issues such as chronic mental and physical health conditions, inequity, public health crises such as pandemics, and climate harm.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT05394363; retrospectively registered 23 May 2022 (8 months into recruitment).
Knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions of a group of Egyptian dental students toward artificial intelligence: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Elchaghaby Marwa , Wahby Reem
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Artificial intelligence (AI) applications have increased dramatically across a wide range of domains. Dental students will undoubtedly be impacted by the emergence of AI in dentistry.

Aim

This study aimed to evaluate the knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions of a group of Egyptian dental students toward artificial intelligence.

Materials and method

An online survey was conducted using a questionnaire sent to dental students via Google Forms. The questionnaire comprised 18 questions on participant’s knowledge and perceptions regarding the future of AI in dentistry. The collected data was statistically analyzed.

Results

A total of 384 students answered the questionnaire. Of the participants, (49%) had a basic knowledge of the principles of AI, and (48%) participants were aware of AI usage in dentistry. Social media was the most common information source for AI applications. Most of the participants agreed on the leading role of AI in the advancement of dentistry and disagreed on the ability of AI to replace dentists in the future, (53%) and (44%) respectively. Moreover, (49%) and (52%) respectively of students approved the incorporation of AI applications in undergraduate and postgraduate dental training.

Conclusion

Egyptian dental students are acquainted with AI and its possible applications in dentistry. They consider the use of AI diagnosis exciting and approve of its definitive role in disease prediction. There is a necessity to include, enhance, and increase AI training in dental schools.

Trial registration

This study has been registered in clinical trials. gov with an identifier: NCT06348758.
Histological and radiographic assessment of the regenerative potential of sodium hexametaphosphate (SHMP) as a novel direct pulp capping material in an animal model
Authors: Mohamed Mostafa Kamel , Abdelrahman Mohamed Abdelfattah , Abdel-Razik Abdel-Razik Hashem , Elheeny Ahmad Abdel Hamid
Published: January 2025

Background

This study aimed to assess the histological and radiographic effects of sodium hexametaphosphate (SHMP) as a direct pulp capping (DPC) agent in immature permanent dog premolars.

Methods

A split-mouth design was employed with three healthy 4-month-old Mongrel dogs, each having 36 premolars. The premolars were randomly assigned to either SHMP or MTA. The specimens were stained with hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) and Masson’s trichrome, and histologically examined three months after the animals were sacrificed. To assess root maturity, radiographic changes in root length (RL), root surface area (RSA), and apical foramen width (AFW) were measured at baseline and after 3 months. Quantitative data were analyzed using the paired-sample t-test, while the qualitative data based on Stanley's histological scoring system were tested using the Monte Carlo exact test. The level of significance was set at 5%.

Results

Histological findings showed no significant differences between the two groups, except for the average thickness of the predentin and odontoblastic layers, which was significantly higher in the SHMP specimens (P < 0.0001). The frequencies of fully calcified dentin bridges and regularly arranged dentinal tubules were significantly higher in the SHMP specimens (P < 0.05). Both materials showed comparable radiographic measurements (P > 0.05), except for the change in RL, which was significantly longer in the SHMP group (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

There were no significant differences between SHMP and MTA in some respects. Histological evaluation showed that SHMP provided better bioinductive and biocompatible properties compared to MTA. Radiographically, both materials showed comparable root maturogenesis outcomes, except for the significant increase in RL in the SHMP group. SHMP may be a suitable alternative material for DPC in the treatment of immature permanent teeth.
Integration of physical and mental health services for children and young people with eating disorders and functional symptom disorders: discrete choice experiment
Authors: Massou Efthalia , Basher Mike , Bennett Sophie D. , Ford Tamsin , Gandhi Saheli , Heyman Isobel , Magnusson Josefine , Mehta Raj , Ng Pei Li , O’Curry Sara , Ramsay Angus I. G. , Fulop Naomi J. , Morris Stephen
Published: January 2025

Background

Given the increasing recognition of the value of greater integration of physical and mental health services for children and young people, we aimed to evaluate preferences among parents for the characteristics associated with integrated health service provision for two conditions (eating disorders, functional symptom disorders).

Methods

Two discrete choice experiments (DCEs) were conducted, using electronic surveys. Participants were adult parents of children and young people. Choice scenarios were based on five attributes for the eating disorders study, and four attributes for the functional symptom disorders study.

Results

Two hundred parents participated in each DCE. For eating disorders, days missed from school in the last year was the attribute valued most highly, followed by days in hospital in the last year, costs to the NHS, functioning, and interaction with peers with eating disorders. Respondents were willing to trade £531 of costs to the NHS for one less day missed from school. For functional symptom disorders, time to diagnosis was valued most highly, followed by days missed from school while obtaining a diagnosis, reservations about seeing a mental health practitioner, and costs of diagnosis to the NHS. Respondents were willing to trade £4237 of costs to the NHS to wait one month less for a diagnosis.

Conclusion

Respondents’ preferences were largely consistent with the planned goals of integrating physical and mental health services. Our findings show the factors which ought to be considered when designing new integrated pathways and evaluating them.
Wu-Mei-Wan enhances brown adipose tissue function and white adipose browning in obese mice via upregulation of HSF1
Authors: Chen Shen , Nie Kexin , Wang Hongzhan , Gao Yang , Jiang Xinyue , Su Hao , Wang Zhi , Tang Yueheng , Lu Fuer , Dong Hui , Li Jingbin
Published: January 2025

Background

This research aims to explore the anti-obesity potential of Wu-Mei-Wan (WMW), particularly its effects on adipose tissue regulation in obese mice induced by a high-fat diet (HFD). The study focuses on understanding the role of heat shock factor 1 (HSF1) in mediating these effects.

Methods

HFD-induced obese mice were treated with WMW. Body weight, food intake, and histopathological analysis of adipose tissue were conducted. Brown adipose tissue (BAT) activity was evaluated using Positron Emission Tomography, and ultrastructural changes were examined via transmission electron microscopy. Proteomic analysis identified targets of WMW in obesity treatment. HSF1 expression was inhibited to confirm its role. Molecular docking studied interactions between WMW and HSF1. Short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) in the intestines were measured to determine if WMW’s effects on HSF1 are mediated through SCFAs. Protein expression was assessed using western blot, immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence and RT-qPCR were employed to detect the mRNA levels. Statistical analyses included t-tests, ANOVA, and non-parametric tests like the Mann–Whitney U test or Kruskal–Wallis test.

Results

WMW significantly mitigates the adverse effects of a HFD on body weight and glucose metabolism in obese mice. Both low-dose WMW and high-dose WMW treatments led to reduced weight gain and improved glucose tolerance, with low-dose WMW showing more pronounced effects. WMW also reversed structural damage in BAT, enhancing mitochondrial integrity and thermogenic function, particularly at the low dose. Additionally, WMW treatment promoted the browning of WAT, evidenced by increased expression of key thermogenic proteins such as UCP1 and PGC-1α. The increase in HSF1 expression in both BAT and WAT, observed with WMW treatment, was crucial for these beneficial effects, as inhibition of HSF1 negated the positive outcomes. Furthermore, WMW treatment led to elevated levels of short-chain fatty acids SCFAs in the intestines, which are associated with increased HSF1 expression.

Conclusions

WMW represents a potent therapeutic strategy for obesity, promoting metabolic health and beneficial modulation of adipose tissue through an HSF1-dependent pathway.
Systematic review of the association between thyroid disorders and hyperprolactinemia
Authors: Khan Adeel Ahmad , Sharma Rohit , Ata Fateen , Khalil Sondos K , Aldien Arwa Saed , Hasnain Muhammad , Sadiq Amna , Bilal Ammara Bint I , Mirza Wasique
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Thyroid disease (TD), particularly hypothyroidism, is an important etiology of hyperprolactinemia (HPRL). We conducted a systematic review of the clinical characteristics, management, and outcomes of adults (> 18 years) with this clinical association.

Materials and methods

We searched PUBMED, SCOPUS, and EMBASE to find eligible articles published in English from any date till 15th December 2022.

Results

The final systematic review included 804 patients from 47 articles, of which the majority (85.9%) were females. Menstrual irregularity was the most prominent symptom of HPRL (74.3%). Subclinical hypothyroidism (57.1%) was the most reported TD. Individual patient data were available for 62 patients from 35 studies. The median age was 32 (25–42) years, TSH was 110.25 (50-345.4) mU/L, and PRL level was 60 (37.6–91) ng/ml. On treating TD, 38 (70.4%) patients had complete resolution and 10 (18.5%) had an improvement in HPRL. Of 38 patients with pituitary imaging, 26 (68.4%) showed pituitary enlargement, and 13 (34.2%) showed a suprasellar extension. 13 (76.5%) patients had complete resolution and 3 (17.6%) had an improvement in pituitary enlargement on TD treatment. A positive correlation was observed between higher serum TSH levels and higher serum prolactin levels. Patients with pituitary enlargement on imaging had a higher TSH level compared to those without any pituitary enlargement (Median of 263 (61–602) vs. 50 (24.3–128) mU/L; p-value = 0.01).

Conclusion

Thyroid hormone replacement can lead to resolution of HPRL and pituitary enlargement in the majority of patients with HPRL due to overt or subclinical hypothyroidism without the need for dopamine agonist treatment.
Application and progress of non-invasive imaging in predicting lung invasive non-mucinous adenocarcinoma under the new IASLC grading guidelines
Authors: Feng Jinbao , Shao Xiaonan , Gao Jianxiong , Ge Xinyu , Sun Yan , Shi Yunmei , Wang Yuetao , Niu Rong
Published: January 2025

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide, with invasive non-mucinous adenocarcinoma (INMA) being the most common type and carrying a poor prognosis. In 2020, the International Association for the Study of Lung Cancer (IASLC) pathology committee proposed a new histological grading system, which offers more precise prognostic assessments by combining the proportions of major and high-grade histological patterns. Accurate identification of lung INMA grading is crucial for clinical diagnosis, treatment planning, and prognosis evaluation. Currently, non-invasive imaging methods (such as CT, PET/CT, and MRI) are increasingly being studied to predict the new grading of lung INMA, showing promising application prospects. This review outlines the establishment and prognostic efficiency of the new IASLC grading system, highlights the application and latest progress of non-invasive imaging techniques in predicting lung INMA grading, and discusses their role in personalized treatment of lung INMA and future research directions.

Critical relevance statement

The new IASLC grading system has important prognostic implications for patients with lung invasive non-mucinous adenocarcinoma (INMA), and non-invasive imaging methods can be used to predict it, thereby improving patient prognoses.

Key Points

The new IASLC grading system more accurately prognosticates for patients with lung INMA.

Preoperative prediction of the new grading is challenging because of the complexity of INMA subtypes.

It is feasible to apply non-invasive imaging methods to predict the new IASLC grading system.

Graphical Abstract
Glutathione reductase modulates endogenous oxidative stress and affects growth and virulence in Avibacterium paragallinarum
Authors: Zhi Yan , Mei Chen , Liu Zhenyi , Liu Ying , Wang Hongjun
Published: January 2025

Glutathione reductase (GR) plays a pivotal role in managing oxidative stress, a process crucial for microbial virulence and adaptation, yet it has not been extensively explored in bacteria such as Avibacterium paragallinarum (Av. paragallinarum). This study examined the specific roles of GR in Av. paragallinarum, focusing on how GR modulates the bacterium’s response to oxidative stress and impacts its pathogenic behavior. Using gene knockouts together with transcriptomic and metabolomic profiling, we identified an important shift in redox balance due to GR deficiency, which disrupted energy metabolism and weakened the oxidative stress defense, culminating in a notable decline in virulence. In addition, decreased growth rates, reduced biofilm production, and weakened macrophage interactions were observed in GR-deficient strains. Notably, our findings reveal a sophisticated adaptation mechanism wherein the bacterium recalibrated its metabolic pathways in response to GR deficiency without fully restoring virulence. Our in vivo studies further highlight the pivotal role of GR in pathogen fitness. Together, our findings connect GR-mediated redox control to bacterial virulence, thereby furthering the understanding of microbial adaptation and positioning GR as a potential antimicrobial target. Our insights into the GR-centric regulatory network pave the way for leveraging bacterial redox mechanisms in the development of novel antimicrobial therapies, highlighting the importance of oxidative stress management in bacterial pathogenicity.
Building bonds beyond the office: how company community sports (CCS) foster organizational integration
Authors: Zhang Fan
Published: January 2025

As remote and flexible work becomes increasingly prevalent, the importance of building bonds among coworkers is emphasized. Beyond health considerations, the role of company community sports (CCS) in fostering integration at the group and organizational levels remains unclear, especially for underrepresented employees. This study investigates the impact of CCS participation on employees' internal group and external organizational integration using data from 12 organizations (N = 2018; Age = 30.8 ± 8.4 years; Female = 47.6%). Social integration was measured through workplace trust, organizational identification, and coworker interaction. The organizational settings and participation quality of CCS were examined to analyze their effect on integration. The results indicate that frequent and high-quality participation in CCS significantly enhances both internal group integration and external organizational integration, while CCS professionalism and intense competition have very little effect on the overall effects. However, female employees experienced lower integration levels, highlighting the need for inclusive CCS initiatives. CCS activities should cater to the diverse interests and capabilities of all employees to promote greater participation and ensure inclusivity for underrepresented groups.
Laparoscopic and Endoscopic cooperative surgery as Rescue-treatment for Advanced gastric Cancer in patients Unfit for Surgery (LE-RACUS): protocol for a feasibility study
Authors: Maltzman Henrik , Omae Masami , Klevebro Fredrik , Baldaque-Silva Francisco , Rouvelas Ioannis
Published: January 2025

Background

The standard treatment for advanced gastric cancer without metastasis is gastrectomy in combination with chemotherapy. Some patients cannot tolerate such treatment because of old age or comorbidities. In this study, we want to test the feasibility of Laparoscopic and Endoscopic Cooperative Surgery (LECS) as a less invasive treatment option. In LECS, the tumor margin is marked endoscopically, followed by surgical removal under endoscopic guidance. Currently, LECS is primarily used in Asian countries as a treatment for gastrointestinal stromal cell tumors.

Methods

The study will be conducted as a prospective single-center, feasibility trial. The primary objective will be the safety of LECS, defined as Clavien-Dindo score ≥ III. The secondary objectives will be any complications, postoperative bleeding/perforation, operation time, radicality, mortality, hospital stay, and health-related quality of life.

The inclusion criteria will be patients with gastric cancer cT2-T4aN0M0, Borrman type 1–2 < 5 cm, or type 3 < 2 cm that the tumor board assesses as not fit for gastrectomy. Exclusion criteria will be Borrman type 4 and lesions in the cardia. The patients will be followed up with an outpatient appointment 30 days after the procedure.

Discussion

LECS is a promising treatment option for patients with gastric cancer who cannot tolerate gastrectomy. Compared to gastrectomy, LECS is a less invasive procedure with a documented low complication rate. No previous prospective studies have been conducted to evaluate LECS for advanced gastric cancer.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT06105515. Registered 23 October 2023.

https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT06105515?cond=Gastric%20Cancer&term=NCT06105515&aggFilters=status:not%20rec&rank=1