bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ON THE THEORETICAL AND METHODOLOGICAL FOUNDATIONS FOR STUDYING THE CORRECTION AND RE-SOCIALIZATION OF CONVICTS
Authors: Adoevskaya Ol’ga
Published: February 2025

The article is devoted to the theoretical and methodological foundations of studying the processes of correction and re-socialization of convicts. The necessity of addressing the potential of the methodology of qualitative sociological research in the study of these processes is substantiated. It is also proposed to use the approach of social constructivism to identify the ideas of convicts and persons who have served sentences about the processes of correction and re-socialization. The conclusion is substantiated that such studies help to focus attention on the personality of the convict and his individual characteristics. This is especially important in the context of the formation of the probation institute in Russia. It is the emphasis on the personal characteristics of convicts that should be made when developing individual programs of re-socialization, social adaptation and social rehabilitation, which are provided for by the Federal Law "On Probation in the Russian Federation".
Thelazia callipaeda (Nematoda: Spirurida) infections in 2 wildlife species, Prionailurus bengalensis and Nyctereutes procyonoides, in Korea
Authors: Jang Jinho , Park Young-Seok , Yun YoungMin , Eom Keeseon S. , Choe Seongjun
Published: February 2025

Thelazia callipaeda (Spirurida, Thelaziidae), a parasitic eye worm causing thelaziasis has been reported in humans and dogs in Korea. However, its occurrence in other potential reservoir hosts, including wild animals, remains unclear. In the present study, we described the 2 cases of thelaziasis from both of feral and captive wild animal in Korea. In August and November 2017, 2 cases of the parasitic infections were found in the third eyelid of rescued leopard cat Prionailurus bengalensis and reared raccoon dog Nyctereutes procyonoides at the Chungnam Wild Animal Rescue Center. A total of 20 and 24 worms were detected from the left and right eyes of leopard cat, respectively. In the left eye of the raccoon dog, 5 worms were recognized. Male worms were 969–11,860 μm long (10,600 μm on average) and 300–320 μm width (315 μm on average). Female worms were 13,430–15,330 (14,480) μm long and 320–370 (344) μm wide in size. They commonly had a characteristic scalariform buccal cavity and short esophagus. The vulva openings were located at the anterior of esophago-intestinal junction in females. The thelaziasis is reported in 2 species of wildlife, P. bengalensis and N. procyonoides, for the first time in Korea.
OBTAINING A LOW COST ADSORBENT FROM A BIODEGRADABLE POLYMER FOR THE REMOVAL OF LOW MOLECULAR ORGANIC COMPOUNDS FROM SOLUTIONS OF TECHNOLOGICAL ORIGIN
Authors: Dzyazko Yuliya , Molina Luiza Carla Augusta , Ribeiro Anna Carla , Wernke Gessica , Bergamasco Rosangela
Published: February 2025

The work solves the problem of obtaining adsorbents from cheap and available feedstock  able for the removal of low-molecular-weight toxic organic substances from aqueous solutions. It is proposed to obtain an adsorbent from the wastes of such biodegradable poly­mer as polylactic acid (PLA), for example, from used packaging. The polymer was heated up to the melting point, cooled and ground. The thermally treated PLA sample contained end carboxyl and hydroxyl groups, which were identified with Fourier-IR spectroscopy, and the ion-exchange activity of the polymer was found. These groups provide a surface charge density of 0.02−0.12 C m-2 in the pH range of 4−10, ξ-potential reaches 30 mV in an alkaline media. Adsorption of such cationic dye as methylene blue (MB) was studied under static and dynamic conditions. The Temkin and Freundlich models were applied to the adsorption isotherms, an increase in the adsorption capacity of the polymer was found with an increase in pH from 4 to 10, while the surface became more energetically heterogeneous. The capacity of PLA is 16−30 mg g-1 in the absence of a supporting electrolyte, and 10−28 mg g-1, when adsorption occurs from a two-component solution containing also NaCl. According to the results of the study of MB adsorption, and the data of electronic spectroscopy for suspension of the polymer, it was established that the dye removal from the solution occurs mainly due to electrostatic attraction to the negatively charged PLA surface. The adsorbent was proposed to be employed for the remo­val of the residual colour of wastewater after its treatment, for example, with reverse osmosis or nanofiltration.
NANOPOR POLYMER-INORGANIC FLAT MEMBRANES FOR PESTICIDE CONCENTRATION
Authors: Rozhdestvenska Liudmyla , Kudelko Kateryna , Palchik Aleksei , Dzyazko Yuliya , Bubela Halyna
Published: February 2025

Industrial pesticide plants wastewater po­ses a danger to the environment due to of the exceed of threshold limit value of concentration. It causes to fines and the loss of valuable commercial products. This work proposes a problem solution comprising the removal of pesticides from water by the baromembrane method. The advantages of this approach are obtaining a concentrate of pesticides by the non-destructive method. Polymer-inorganic membranes have been developed to remove pesticides from water. They were obtained by modifying the active layer of commercial micro- and ultrafiltration membranes with nanoparticles of hydrated zirconium dioxide (HZD) with size 10−100 nm. Modification changes the porous structure of active layer due to the formation of gaps between the incorporated nanoparticles as well the polymers hydrolysis. It was established the pore with size 4−33 nm determines the separation properties of the modified membranes. The modifier nanoparticles are located in the active layer. They provide secondary porosity that prevents irreversible contamination of the obtained materials. The membranes were tested with aqueous solutions of commercial pesticides that active ingredient are benzoic acid derivatives and sulfonylurea. It was found sequential filtration under low pressure (up to 2 atm) through po­lymer-inorganic membranes with larger and smaller pores and following adsorption by biochar reduces the content of pesticides in water below the threshold limit value concentrations. For example, the final content of the sulfonylurea derivative was 0.0005 g dm-3. The obtained concentrate can be used as a commercial product.
Non trivial zeros of the Riemann zeta function
Authors: OUKIL Walid
Published: February 2025

In this paper, we consider the representation of the Riemann zeta function $\zeta$ defined by Abel's summation formula. We show that: if $|\zeta(s)|=0$ then $|\zeta(1-s)|\neq0$ for any point $s$ in the critical strip such that $\Re(s)\neq\frac{1}{2}$.
Induced gravity in the space of momentum
Authors: Kuyukov Vitaly
Published: February 2025

General relativity is an excellent model of gravity, but the theory is classical, not described by a quantum theory. There are many models of quantum gravity, they can be divided into background and independent from the background of the theory. In this paper, we consider the canonical approach to quantum gravity. But a completely different geometry and the concept of space is used.
Polynomial Equations of Bicomplex Numbers
Authors: KUMAR JOGENDRA
Published: February 2025

In this paper, a polynomial of a bicomplex variable has been studied. Square roots for several quadratic equations using bicomplex variables have been obtained. Also, we have studied the nth root of unity in C_2. We have shown that all n^2nth roots of unity in C_2 form an abelian group. The number of distinct cyclic subgroups within an abelian group of the nth root of unity in C_2 has also been characterized.
Pengelompokan Data Kelas Desa Berdasarkan Data Letter-C Menggunakan Algoritma K-Means Clustering
Authors: Hidayatul Kusna Asrul , Hartami Santi Indyah , Febrinita Filda
Published: February 2025

Data Letter - C adalah dokumen pertanahan yang digunakan sebagai acuan untuk membuktikan kepemilikan tanah. Dalam melakukan pengelompokan jenis tanah atau kelas desa di Desa Pandanarum masih dilakukan secara manual sehingga berakibat pada kurang efektifnya dalam pengelolaan sumber daya pertanahan. Untuk itu dilakukan pengelompokan kelas desa dengan menggunakan Algoritma K – Means Clustering dengan penentuan jumlah cluster menggunakan metode Elbow. Pengujian Algoritma dilakukan melalui metode Davies Bouldin Index. Proses penelitian dilakukan dengan menggunakan data Letter – C buku ketiga, dengan jumlah data sebanyak 429 data. Dari penelitian yang dilakukan. menghasilkan pengelompokan data kelas desa sebanyak 7 cluster. Cluster 1 memiliki sebaran kelas desa sebanyak 71 data yang terdapat pada blok 19,20,21,22,23 dan 24, sementara pada cluster terakhir, yaitu cluster ke 7, sebaran kelas desa sebanyak 84 data yang terdapat pada blok 12,13,14,15,16,17. Selanjutnya untuk proses pengujian dengan metode DBI, menghasilkan nilai 0,854, sehingga dapat disimpulkan pengelompokan data kelas desa dalam 7 cluster adalah kelompok tepat atau terbaik. Berdasarkan hasil penelitian tersebut dapat disimpulkan bahwa pengelompokan data kelas menggunakan algoritma K-Means di Desa Pandanarum dapat meningkatkan pengelolaan sumber daya pertanahan.
Implementasi Algoritma YOLOv5 untuk Otomatisasi Iklan Layananan Publik tentang Larangan Merokok
Authors: Salsabilla Azahra Putri  , Murinto  , Sunardi
Published: February 2025

Kebijakan larangan merokok di tempat umum merupakan prioritas global dalam meningkatkan kesehatan masyarakat dan mengurangi dampak negatif rokok terhadap lingkungan sosial. Namun, penegakan kebijakan ini masih menghadapi tantangan, terutama di lingkungan publik yang kompleks. Penelitian ini mengusulkan implementasi algoritma YOLOv5 (You Only Look Once versi 5), sebuah metode deep learning untuk deteksi objek secara real-time. YOLOv5 bekerja dengan mendeteksi dan melokalisasi objek pada citra atau video menggunakan kotak pembatas (bounding box), memungkinkan identifikasi yang cepat dan akurat. Dalam konteks ini, YOLOv5 digunakan untuk mendeteksi perilaku merokok dengan mengidentifikasi objek rokok yang menyala dan posisi tangan yang menunjukkan aktivitas merokok. Model dilatih menggunakan dataset yang mencakup variasi posisi, pencahayaan, dan latar belakang, dengan pembagian data 80% untuk training, 10% untuk validation, dan 10% untuk testing. Hasil evaluasi menunjukkan performa model dengan Mean Average Precision (mAP) sebesar 0,483, F1-Score sebesar 81%, dan recall sebesar 84%. Implementasi ini membuktikan bahwa YOLOv5 memiliki potensi besar untuk mendukung otomatisasi pengawasan kebijakan larangan merokok. Selain itu, sistem ini dapat memicu iklan layanan publik yang relevan untuk meningkatkan kesadaran masyarakat terhadap bahaya rokok secara dinamis dan adaptif, terutama di tempat umum.
Mini-Batch K-Means Clustering Untuk Pengelompokan Kemandirian Daerah Di Sulawesi Selatan
Authors: Amri Muh. Aidil , Risal Andi Akram Nur , Bakri Muh. Fajrin , Surianto Dewi Fatmarani
Published: February 2025

Kurangnya pemetaan yang efisien mengenai tingkat kemandirian desa di Sulawesi Selatan menghambat perumusan kebijakan pembangunan yang tepat sasaran. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengembangkan model clustering menggunakan algoritma Mini-Batch K-Means guna mengelompokkan desa berdasarkan tingkat kemandiriannya. Data yang digunakan mencakup Indeks Ketahanan Sosial (IKS), Indeks Ketahanan Ekonomi (IKE), dan Indeks Ketahanan Lingkungan (IKL) dari 2.000 desa di Sulawesi Selatan. Proses analisis melibatkan pre-processing data, penentuan jumlah klaster optimal menggunakan metode Elbow, serta penerapan Mini-Batch K-Means untuk pengelompokan desa. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa desa-desa dapat dikelompokkan ke dalam empat klaster utama: Desa Mandiri, Desa Maju, Desa Berkembang, serta gabungan Desa Tertinggal dan Desa Sangat Tertinggal. Evaluasi menggunakan Silhouette Coefficient mengindikasikan bahwa klaster Desa Mandiri memiliki kualitas pengelompokan terbaik dengan nilai 0,5398, sementara klaster Desa Berkembang memiliki nilai 0,1823, yang menunjukkan adanya tumpang tindih dengan klaster lain. Implementasi model ini memberikan gambaran yang lebih jelas terkait distribusi tingkat kemandirian desa dan dapat menjadi acuan dalam penyusunan strategi pembangunan yang lebih efektif dan berkelanjutan. Dari hasil penelitian ini, pemerintah daerah dan pemangku kepentingan dapat merumuskan kebijakan berbasis data yang lebih akurat, memastikan bahwa desa-desa yang membutuhkan intervensi lebih lanjut dapat memperoleh perhatian yang tepat. Rekomendasi strategi berbasis data ini diharapkan dapat meningkatkan efektivitas program pembangunan desa serta mempercepat pencapaian kesejahteraan yang merata di Sulawesi Selatan
Philosophic Dialectics in the Age of Post-philosophies
Authors: Chukhrov Keti
Published: February 2025

My research comprises three principal areas that are interconnected with each other:
The impact of political economics on the capitalist and non-capitalist epistemologies
Philosophy of performativity
Art as the institute of global contemporaneity
...
Mitigating methane emissions and promoting acetogenesis in ruminant livestock
Authors: Mrutu Rehema Iddi , Abdussamad Abdussamad Muhammad , Umar Kabir Mustapha , Abdulhamid Adnan , Farny Natalie G.
Published: February 2025

Through enteric fermentation, ruminants convert fibrous biomass into high-quality proteins like meat and milk. In this process however, methanogenic archaea in the ruminant gastrointestinal tract produce methane, a potent greenhouse gas, from the by-products of enteric fermentation: carbon dioxide and hydrogen. Research in ruminant methane mitigation has been extensive, and over the years has resulted in the development of a wide variety of mitigation strategies ranging from cutting our meat consumption, to breeding low emitting cows, to targeting the rumen microbiome. Methods like promotion of reductive acetogenesis, a natural alternative pathway to methanogenesis in the rumen, are at the forefront of rumen microbiome engineering efforts. However, our inability to make acetogenesis a key hydrogen scavenging process in the rumen have limited these manipulation efforts. Herein we comprehensively review these mitigation strategies, with particular emphasis on mechanisms involving the manipulation of rumen acetogenesis. Such manipulation includes the genetic reprogramming of methanogens for reductive acetogenesis. With the advent of CRISPR-Cas genome editing technologies, the potential exists to transform dominant methane-producing archaea, such as Methanobrevibacter ruminantium, into acetate producing organisms. Acetate can, in turn, be utilized by the animal to increase meat and milk production, thus simultaneously reducing emissions and increasing efficiency. The current status and future challenges of these strategies are discussed. We propose that CRISPR offers a promising avenue for sustainable ruminant farming.
Endothelial cell-modified BMSC-GT/PCL nanofiber membrane sheet constructs promote bone tissue regeneration
Authors: Zhou Qian , Wen Mengnan , Zhang Yiwu , Wang Zhinan , Zhou Guangdong , Liang Xiaoqin
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Bone defect repair remains a major challenge in modern medicine. Although bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) possess multilineage differentiation potential, traditional BMSC constructs are often limited in clinical applications due to insufficient osteogenic differentiation efficiency and inadequate vascularization.

Methods

This study developed an innovative bone tissue engineering strategy by combining BMSCs with gelatin/polycaprolactone (GT/PCL) nanofiber membranes to form cell sheets, which were then modified with endothelial cells (ECs) on the surface. The sheets were subsequently rolled into three-dimensional scaffolds to systematically evaluate their osteogenic potential and underlying mechanisms.

Resuilts

Results showed that electrospun GT/PCL nanofiber membranes exhibited uniform fiber structure (diameter 200–500 nm), successfully mimicking the microstructure of natural extracellular matrix. In vitro experiments demonstrated that after 14 days of culture, EC modification significantly enhanced the osteogenic differentiation of BMSCs compared to unmodified controls, with approximately 3-fold increase in ALP expression (p < 0.05) and 2.5-fold increase in angiogenic factor VEGF expression (p < 0.01). Subcutaneous implantation in nude mice revealed superior bone formation capability of EC-modified constructs at both 4 and 8 weeks: micro-CT analysis showed bone density reaching 350 mg/cm3, bone surface area approaching 400 mm2, and bone volume fraction of approximately 20%, significantly higher than control groups (p < 0.0001). Immunohistochemical evaluation further confirmed more mature trabecular bone structure and richer vascular networks in EC-modified groups.

Discussion

Mechanistic studies revealed that EC modification promoted bone regeneration through three key pathways: optimization of local vascular microenvironment for improved nutrient supply, activation of intercellular synergistic signaling pathways, and reconstruction of physiological bone tissue microenvironment. This study not only validates the application value of this composite strategy in bone tissue engineering but also provides important theoretical basis for developing novel bone regeneration solutions.
Does the island area also need to insist on salt iodization to prevent iodine deficiency disorders? a cross-sectional survey in Hainan Province, China
Authors: Wu Hongying , Meng Shizhu , Sun Dingwei , Hu Yuting , Wu Tingou , Wang Xiaohuan , Wang Xingren , Liu Ying , Peng Chuyan , He Bin , Meng Fangang
Published: February 2025

Background

To investigate the epidemiology and related factors of iodine deficiency disorders (IDD) in Hainan Province, to know the iodine nutrition status and thyroid disease status of residents, and to explore whether salt iodization should be adopted to prevent and control IDD in island areas. To provide a basis for the effective implementation of scientific iodine supplement prevention and control strategy.

Methods

All 21 cities, counties (districts) in the province were investigated. Superficial soil, residential drinking water, common food, urine samples of children, adults and pregnant women, household salt samples, thyroid B-ultrasound of adults and pregnant women, adult blood samples were collected. Soil iodine, water iodine, food iodine, urine iodine, daily salt intake, salt iodine, thyroid volume, nodules and thyroid function were measured.

Results

The median iodine content in soil was 4.37mg/kg, the median iodine content in drinking water was 6.0μg/L, the iodized salt coverage rate was 98.6%, and the consumption rate of qualified iodized salt was 97.9%. The median urinary iodine concentration (MUIC) in children and adults was 180.3μg/L and 151.6μg/L, respectively, which was the adequate level of iodine. The median urinary iodine in pregnant women was 144.6μg/L, which was slightly lower than the adequate level. The main source of iodine intake was salt iodine, which contributed 59.8% to total dietary iodine. Kelp, milk and seaweed, whose contribution rates were 8.2%, 7.3% and 6.6%, respectively. The total iodine contribution rate of other foods was 18.1%, among which the contribution rate of fish, shrimp and crabs was only 2.4%. The overall prevalence of thyroid diseases was 27.01%. The detection rates of subclinical hypothyroidism and subclinical hyperthyroidism in males were significantly higher than those in females, and the detection rates of thyroid nodules and goiter were significantly lower than those in females. The detection rates of thyroid nodules in central mountainous areas were significantly higher than those in eastern and western coastal areas.

Conclusions

At present, the iodine nutrition level in Hainan Province is generally in a suitable state, and the iodine intake of residents mainly comes from iodized salt. The strategy of salt iodization prevention and control of IDD should be adhered to in island area.
Case Report: Hypomorphic Ligase 4 deficiency – a paradigm of immunodysregulation
Authors: Andrade Catarina , Cordeiro Ana Isabel , Pinto Marta Valente , Neves Conceição , Martins Catarina , Villartay Jean-Pierre , Neves João Farela
Published: February 2025

DNA Ligase 4 is critical to nonhomologous end joining, necessary for V(D)J recombination in T and B cell development. Ligase 4 deficiency is a rare autosomal recessive disorder caused by hypomorphic mutations in the DNA Ligase 4 gene, that can lead to a wide range of phenotypes. We describe a case of Ligase 4 deficiency causing a type of T-B-NK+ atypical SCID, highlighting the clinical and immunologic manifestations. An eight-year-old female, from São Nicolau Island (Cape Verde), presented at our hospital with a history of recurrent pneumonia and suppurative otitis, multiple skin lesions attributed to fungal and bacterial infections since the age of two, and recurrent diarrhea and growth impairment, beginning at the age of four. The laboratory workup showed almost absent B cells, marked hypogammaglobulinemia, and an impaired response to protein antigens. Flow cytometry revealed normal NK and T cell counts, but with nearly absent naïve T cells and TCR-Va7 expressing T lymphocytes, and reduced proliferative responses to mitogens and antigens. An oligoclonal Vβ repertoire was identified by FACS, and PROMIDISa analysis revealed a skewed TCRa repertoire signature. A 477 PID-related genes NGS panel identified a homozygous R278H mutation in the DNA Ligase 4 gene, previously reported to cause Ligase 4 deficiency. Immunoglobulin replacement and prophylactic therapies were started while waiting for hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. She has experienced fluctuating transaminase levels. The cutaneous biopsy was suggestive of lupus pernio. She has shown recurrent inflammatory signs in her limbs, with documented tenosynovitis on ultrasound. Homozygous R278H in Ligase 4 has been linked to various ranges of manifestations in Ligase 4 deficient patients. In our report, this genotype resulted in T-B-NK+ atypical SCID, that after proper prophylaxis has a predominant autoimmune phenotype.
Distinct microbial signatures and their predictive value in recurrent acute pancreatitis: insights from 5-region 16S rRNA gene sequencing
Authors: Wang Qi-Wen , Zheng Haorui , Yang Yang , Chang Xinyao , Du Zengkan , Hang Zi-ning , Li Zhao-Shen , Liao Zhuan
Published: February 2025

Background

Recurrent acute pancreatitis (RAP) poses significant clinical challenges, with 32.3% developing to chronic pancreatitis within 5 years. The underlying microbial factors contributing to RAP remain poorly understood. This study aims to identify blood microbial signatures associated with RAP and explore the potential microbial predictors for RAP.

Methods

In this prospective cohort, 90 acute pancreatitis patients are classified into non-recurrent acute pancreatitis (NRAP, n=68) and RAP (n=22) groups based on the number of pancreatitis episodes. Microbial composition of blood samples is analyzed using 5-region (5R) 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Key microbial taxa and functional predictions are made. A random forest model is used to assess the predictive value of microbial features for RAP. The impact of Staphylococcus hominis (S. hominis) on RAP is further evaluated in an experimental mouse model.

Results

Linear discriminant analysis effect size (LEfSe) analysis highlights significant microbial differences, with Paracoccus aminovorans, Corynebacterium glucuronolyticum and S. hominis being prominent in RAP. Functional predictions indicate enrichment of metabolic pathways in the RAP group. Random forest analysis identifies key microbial taxa with an AUC value of 0.759 for predicting RAP. Experimental validation shows that S. hominis exacerbates pancreatic inflammation in mice.

Conclusions

This study identifies distinct clinical and microbial features associated with RAP, emphasizing the role of specific bacterial taxa in pancreatitis recurrence. The findings suggest that microbial profiling could enhance the diagnosis and management of RAP, paving the way for personalized therapeutic approaches.
Quantifying coral-algal interactions in an acidified ocean: Sargassum spp. exposure mitigates low pH effects on Acropora cervicornis health
Authors: Lankes Johann D. , Page Heather N. , Quasunella Amanda , Torkelson Jaclyn F. , Lemaire Clöe , Nowicki Robert J. , Blasius Lillia , Hall Emily R.
Published: February 2025

Increasingly frequent large-scale pelagic Sargassum algae blooms in the Atlantic have become a problem for coastal ecosystems. The mass decay of these blooms reduces water quality for coastal flora and fauna. However, the effects of living Sargassum blooms on seawater quality and consequently coral reef ecosystems that rely on delicately balanced carbonate chemistry are more ambiguous. Future oceans are predicted to be more acidic as additional anthropogenic CO2 emissions are absorbed, potentially tipping the balance in favor of algal blooms at the cost of coral survival. This study aimed to simulate the indirect interaction between pelagic Sargassum spp. and Acropora cervicornis coral fragments from the Florida Reef in current-day and future ocean pH conditions over the course of 70 days in a mesocosm experimental system. Measurements of coral growth and health via buoyant weight and Pulse Amplitude Modulated (PAM) fluorescence measurements reveal an unexpected coral-algal interaction. After 1 month, coral growth was significantly reduced under ocean acidification conditions and exposure to Sargassum; at the same time quantum yield and maximum electron transport rate of photosynthesis were increased relative to control counterparts in ambient and future pH scenarios by up to 14% and 18% respectively. These improvements in photosynthetic efficiency did not translate to significant differences in growth by the final measurement time point. In addition, the presence of Sargassum spp. did not raise seawater pH in the system, raising questions about how it benefited photosynthetic efficiency in exposed corals. Heterotrophy of detrital algal matter is suspected to compensate for impaired photosynthesis of pH stressed corals. Therefore, despite their current negative reputation, Sargassum blooms could provide short term localized benefits to corals in present and future ocean conditions.
Naegeli-Franceschetti-Jadassohn syndrome: a systematic review of case studies
Authors: Shah Hussain Haider , Hussain Tooba , Subash Arun , Qadir Ramsha Abdul , Meshram Yashika Rajesh , Shahzad Maryam , Sultan Wania , Hadi Zeenat , Ashfaque Faiza , Anas Zahra , Rauf Sameer Abdul , Waseem Radeyah , Hussain Muhammad Sheheryar , Zuberi Muhammad Abdul Wasay
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Naegeli-Franceschetti-Jadassohn syndrome (NFJS), also known as Naegeli Syndrome, is a rare autosomal dominant ectodermal dysplasia characterized by mutations in the KRT14 gene. These mutations disrupt ectodermal tissue development, leading to diverse clinical manifestations involving the skin, nails, teeth, and sweat glands.

Methodology

A systematic search across PubMed, Google Scholar, European PMC, and Cochrane databases was conducted up to August 2023. Only case reports, case series, and original articles reporting cases were included.

Results

This review incorporated 6 case reports, 2 case series, 3 original articles, and 1 editorials, encompassing 33 individuals diagnosed with NFJS. Key clinical features included extensive reticulate hyperpigmentation, palmoplantar keratoderma, and dental anomalies. Rarely reported findings, such as cerebellar fissures and generalized osteopenia, were noted in two cases. Treatment predominantly focused on symptomatic management using topical emollients and antioxidants.

Conclusion

NFJS remains a diagnostic challenge due to its rarity and overlap with other pigmentary disorders. This review consolidates current knowledge to aid clinicians in recognizing and managing NFJS. Further research is needed to clarify its pathogenesis and explore targeted treatments.

Systematic review registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=447267, identifier CRD42023447267.
Comprehensive treatment of diabetic endothelial dysfunction based on pathophysiological mechanism
Authors: Liu Zhao , Lu Jun , Sha Wenjun , Lei Tao
Published: February 2025

Vascular endothelium is integral to the regulation of vascular homeostasis and maintenance of normal arterial function in healthy individuals. Endothelial dysfunction is a significant contributor to the advancement of atherosclerosis, which can precipitate cardiovascular complications. A notable correlation exists between diabetes and endothelial dysfunction, wherein chronic hyperglycemia and acute fluctuations in glucose levels exacerbate oxidative stress. This results in diminished nitric oxide synthesis and heightened production of endothelin-1, ultimately leading to endothelial impairment. In clinical settings, it is imperative to implement appropriate therapeutic strategies aimed at enhancing endothelial function to prevent and manage diabetes-associated vascular complications. Various antidiabetic agents, including insulin, GLP-1 receptor agonists, sulfonylureas, DPP-4 inhibitors, SGLT2 inhibitors, α-glucosidase inhibitors, thiazolidinediones (TZDs), and metformin, are effective in mitigating blood glucose variability and improving insulin sensitivity by lowering postprandial glucose levels. Additionally, traditional Chinese medicinal compounds, such as turmeric extract, resveratrol, matrine alkaloids, tanshinone, puerarin, tanshinol, paeonol, astragaloside, berberine, and quercetin, exhibit hypoglycemic properties and enhance vascular function through diverse mechanisms. Consequently, larger randomized controlled trials involving both pharmacological and herbal interventions are essential to elucidate their impact on endothelial dysfunction in patients with diabetes. This article aims to explore a comprehensive approach to the treatment of diabetic endothelial dysfunction based on an understanding of its pathophysiology.
Uncovering a novel binding trench in ERRα: insights from molecular simulations
Authors: Hegazy Lamees
Published: February 2025

Although estrogen-related receptor α (ERRα) holds significant therapeutic potential for treating various disorders, developing selective agonists remains challenging due to the poor pharmacokinetics and limited selectivity of current ligands. This study presents unconstrained molecular dynamics simulations of ERRα bound to an agonist ligand, uncovering dynamic ligand-binding behavior as the ligand shifts between two orientations: one in the orthosteric pocket and another in a newly identified trench adjacent to this site. The free energy landscape reveals that both binding orientations are comparably populated, with an accessible transition pathway between them. The identification of this novel binding trench expands our understanding of ERRα′s ligand binding domain, offering new avenues for small-molecule drug discovery and selective modulation of ERRα activity.
Rapid and cumulative adult plasticity in the mouse visual cortex
Authors: Miyamoto Hiroyuki , Mazaki Emi , Makino Yuichi , Fang Qi , Hamada Tomohito , Handa Youichi , Hensch Takao K.
Published: February 2025

Experience-dependent neural plasticity enables the brain to adapt to diverse and dynamic environments by reshaping circuits. In the adult visual system, this plasticity can be elicited by repeated sensory stimuli; however, its temporal dynamics and underlying mechanisms remain unclear. Here, we investigated the regulation of visual response potentiation induced by repeated light flashes in the primary visual cortex of awake adult mice. Our findings revealed two distinct temporal phases of potentiation: a rapid phase occurring within seconds and a cumulative phase developing over hours to days. Notably, the identification of this rapid phase phenomenon adds to and refines the prevailing view that visual plasticity in the adult cortex is predominantly slow. Additionally, exposure to visual stimuli enhanced spontaneous slow-wave activity in the visual cortex during non-REM sleep. This plasticity was significantly impaired in Grin2a (NR2A) knockout mice, a model of schizophrenia, which mirrors visual plasticity deficits observed in human patients. The dual temporal characteristics of flash-evoked visual plasticity likely reflect multifaceted aspects of adult brain functionality, encompassing processes related to memory, learning, and neurological disorders. This model of visual plasticity in defined neural circuits provides a simplified yet robust and extensible framework for exploring the neural mechanisms underlying adaptive and maladaptive behavioral changes.
Impact of interferon-β and dimethyl fumarate on nonlinear dynamical characteristics of electroencephalogram signatures in patients with multiple sclerosis
Authors: Hernandez Christopher Ivan , Afek Natalia , Gawłowska Magda , Oświęcimka Paweł , Fafrowicz Magdalena , Slowik Agnieszka , Wnuk Marcin , Marona Monika , Nowak Klaudia , Zur-Wyrozumska Kamila , Amon Mary Jean , Hancock P. A. , Marek Tadeusz , Karwowski Waldemar
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an intricate neurological condition that affects many individuals worldwide, and there is a considerable amount of research into understanding the pathology and treatment development. Nonlinear analysis has been increasingly utilized in analyzing electroencephalography (EEG) signals from patients with various neurological disorders, including MS, and it has been proven to be an effective tool for comprehending the complex nature exhibited by the brain.

Methods

This study seeks to investigate the impact of Interferon-β (IFN-β) and dimethyl fumarate (DMF) on MS patients using sample entropy (SampEn) and Higuchi’s fractal dimension (HFD) on collected EEG signals. The data were collected at Jagiellonian University in Krakow, Poland. In this study, a total of 175 subjects were included across the groups: IFN-β (n = 39), DMF (n = 53), and healthy controls (n = 83).

Results

The analysis indicated that each treatment group exhibited more complex EEG signals than the control group. SampEn had demonstrated significant sensitivity to the effects of each treatment compared to HFD, while HFD showed more sensitivity to changes over time, particularly in the DMF group.

Discussion

These findings enhance our understanding of the complex nature of MS, support treatment development, and demonstrate the effectiveness of nonlinear analysis methods.
Postnatal counseling promotes early initiation and exclusive breastfeeding: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Beyene Belda Negesa , Wako Wako Golicha , Moti Dureti , Edin Alo , Debela Derese Eshetu
Published: February 2025

Background

Breastfeeding plays a crucial role in promoting the health and wellbeing of both mothers and their infants, contributing to healthier populations and reducing long-term healthcare costs. Encouraging breastfeeding through education, support, and policies is essential for maximizing these benefits. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the impact of immediate postpartum counseling on early initiation of breastfeeding rates and exclusive breastfeeding in Bule Hora Teaching and Yabelo General Hospitals.

Methods

A cluster randomized single-blinded trial was conducted on 224 postpartum women (112 in the intervention group and 112 in the control group) from January 1, 2023, to May 30, 2023. The effects of immediate postpartum counseling and its associated variables on early initiation and exclusive breastfeeding practices were evaluated using logistic regressions. A p-value of less than 0.05, a 95% confidence interval, and an adjusted odds ratio were used to determine statistical significance.

Results

The proportion of early initiation of breastfeeding was significantly greater in the intervention group than in the control group (54.1% vs. 45.9%, p = 0.001), and exclusive breastfeeding practice were also significantly greater among women who received immediate breastfeeding counseling than among those who did not receive it (61.9% vs. 38.1%, p = 0.015). Those mothers who had an ANC visit for their pregnancy were three times more likely (AOR = 3.01, 95% CI = 1.12–8.1) to initiate breastfeeding. Having good knowledge regarding breastfeeding made them six times more likely to initiate breast-feeding earlier (AOR = 6.18, 95% CI = 1.77–21.57). Women who received counseling (AOR = 3.36, 95% CI: 1.83–6.16) and women who had good knowledge about breastfeeding (AOR = 1.88, 95% CI: 1.01–3.49) were significantly associated with exclusive breastfeeding practices.

Conclusion

This study revealed that immediate postpartum breastfeeding counseling can positively influence both early initiations of breastfeeding and exclusive breastfeeding practices. Providing sustained education to women regarding early initiation and exclusive breastfeeding practices should be strengthened.
Association between non-highdensity lipoprotein cholesterol to high-density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio and cardiovascular-kidney-metabolic syndrome: evidence from NHANES 2001–2018
Authors: Duan Yang , Yang Ke , Zhang Tianai , Guo Xiangsheng , Yin Qianran , Liu He
Published: February 2025

Objective

This research is to analyze the connection between NHHR and CKD occurrence using NHANES from 2001 to 2018. It will evaluate the feasibility of NHHR as a tool for predicting CKM syndrome and offer valuable insights for personalized treatment approaches within the U.S. population.

Methods

Data from 16,575 individuals aged 20 to 69 years were analyzed, having excluded those who were pregnant and individuals with incomplete data. CKM syndrome was characterized by the simultaneous presence of CKD and Cardiometabolic Syndrome (CMS). For the statistical analysis, weighted logistic regression models were applied, accounting for variables such as age, gender, ethnicity, educational background, marital status, lifestyle factors, and preexisting health conditions. Differently, restricted cubic splines (RCS) were applied to investigate any possible nonlinear relationships between NHHR and CKM in the study.

Results

The research revealed that the occurrence of CKM syndrome was more prevalent among individuals aged 60 and older, with women representing 55.36% of those affected. Additionally, NHHR levels were notably elevated in CKM patients when compared to those without CKM (p < 0.0001). As NHHR increased, the prevalence of CKM also rose, with the highest prevalence in the highest NHHR quartile (Q4: 36.06%). A positive connection between NHHR and CKM was indicated by multivariable logistic regression, especially in the upper quartiles of NHHR (Q3 and Q4). Moreover, RCS analysis displayed a noteworthy nonlinear connection between NHHR and CKM occurrence. The subgroup analysis uncovered significant interactions influenced by BMI and Hypertension.

Conclusion

With the rising global prevalence of CKM syndrome, early identification of high-risk individuals using NHHR could inform targeted prevention and intervention strategies. Future research should focus on validating NHHR in diverse populations and exploring its clinical utility, as well as examining its relationship with other biomarkers of metabolic dysfunction to better understand CKM syndrome’s complex pathophysiology.
Association between METS-IR and female infertility: a cross-sectional study of NHANES 2013–2018
Authors: Li Haiyan , Tan Hongxia , OuYang Zhenbo , Hu Xianyue , Bao Yanjing , Gao Tianyang , Hua Wenfeng
Published: February 2025

Background

Obesity and metabolic syndrome are significant contributors to infertility in women and are closely associated with insulin resistance (IR). The metabolic score for insulin resistance (METS-IR) is a new, non-insulin-based fasting index used to measure IR. However, the potential of METS-IR as a predictive indicator of female infertility risk has not been established. This study aimed to explore the association between METS-IR and the risk of female infertility.

Methods

This cross-sectional study used data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) from 2013 to 2018. We conducted multivariate logistic regression, restricted cubic spline (RCS), and threshold effect analyses to investigate the relationship between METS-IR and female infertility.

Results

According to the self-reported data, 188 (12.20%) participants were classified as infertile. A significantly higher proportion of participants with elevated METS-IR were found to have infertility. Multivariable logistic regression analysis revealed that METS-IR was significantly associated with increased risk of female infertility, irrespective of the independent variable analysis by continuous variables or tertiles in the fully adjusted model (Model 3, continuous variable: OR = 1.02, 95% confidence interval (CI):1.01–1.04, p = 0.005; tertile 3 vs. tertile 1: OR = 2.00, 95% CI = 1.21–3.28, p = 0.0128, p for trend =0.0126). RCS analysis indicated a linear correlation between METS-IR and the risk of infertility (p = 0.121), and threshold effect analysis further supported this linear association (p = 0.136). Moreover, above the inflection point of 32.94, the risk of infertility significantly increased with increasing METS-IR level (p < 0.0001).

Conclusion

Our results suggest that high levels of the METS-IR index are positively associated with infertility among reproductive-aged females in the United States.
A comparative analysis of survival outcomes and adverse effects between preoperative brachytherapy with radical surgery and concurrent chemoradiotherapy in patients with locally advanced cervical cancer
Authors: Niu Yuna , Du Chengchao , Zhou Yeqin , Zhang Miao , Guo Qi , Zhou Honggui
Published: February 2025

Background

To compare the long-term efficacy and adverse effects of preoperative brachytherapy combined with radical surgery versus concurrent chemoradiotherapy (CCRT) in patients with locally advanced cervical cancer (LACC).

Methods

This retrospective study analyzed 161 patients with LACC treated at the Affiliated Hospital of North Sichuan Medical College between January 2015 and December 2020. Of these, 76 patients underwent preoperative brachytherapy combined with radical surgery (study group), while 85 received CCRT (control group). After propensity score matching (PSM) to minimize confounding, 124 patients (62 per group) were included in the analysis. Survival outcomes and prognostic factors were evaluated using Kaplan-Meier survival analysis and Cox regression models. Adverse effects of treatment were compared between the groups.

Results

After PSM, the 5-year progression-free survival (PFS) rate in the study group was significantly higher than that in the control group (81.2% vs. 62.7%, P<0.05). There was no significant between-group difference regarding the 5-year overall survival (OS) rate (81.4% vs. 74.9%, P=0.41). Multivariate analysis identified treatment modality (preoperative brachytherapy combined with radical surgery vs. CCRT) as an independent prognostic factor for PFS (HR: 0.458, 95% CI 0.221–0.945, P=0.035). The study group had significantly lower rates of grade 2 acute radiation enteritis, grade 3-4 leukopenia, and anemia compared to the control group (P<0.05), with no significant differences observed in other adverse effects (P>0.05).

Conclusion

Preoperative brachytherapy combined with radical surgery may help improve the PFS of patients with LACC, with fewer adverse effects, making it a potentially viable treatment option for these patients.
Case Report and review of the literature: esophageal pleomorphic rhabdomyosarcoma
Authors: Pittacolo Matteo , Vittori Arianna , Moletta Lucia , Zanchettin Gianpietro , Pierobon Elisa Sefora , Capovilla Giovanni , Salvador Renato , Michelotto Mauro , Valmasoni Michele
Published: February 2025

Background

Esophageal rhabdomyosarcoma is an exceedingly rare malignant tumor, with only three cases comprehensively documented in the literature since 1995. Due to its rarity, there is limited information on the epidemiology and diagnosis of this disease, and no standardized treatment protocols have been established. As a result, both the recognition and management of esophageal rhabdomyosarcoma pose significant challenges. The present case report provides valuable insight into the clinical approach to this rare tumor, highlighting the need for further research and investigation to develop more effective diagnostic tools and therapeutic strategies.

Case Presentation

We described the case of a 77-year-old male who presented with dyspepsia and anemia, leading to the discovery of an esophageal lesion. At the index endoscopy, histological findings were consistent with esophageal adenocarcinoma. Consequently, the patient was treated with neoadjuvant chemotherapy and Ivor Lewis esophagectomy. Interestingly, on pathological examination the lesion was identified as a pleomorphic rhabdomyosarcoma of the esophagus. Postoperatively, the patient received adjuvant chemotherapy. Subsequently, a subcutaneous metastatic lesion on his right shoulder was treated with a combination of radiotherapy and surgical excision. The patients died twenty-six months after the initial diagnosis.

Conclusions

Our case represents one of the few reported instances of esophageal rhabdomyosarcoma, a highly rare and aggressive malignancy, and provides valuable insights into the challenges of diagnosing and managing this disease. Moreover, this is one of the first cases of esophageal rhabdomyosarcoma followed up for more than 24 months. However, given the paucity of data on esophageal rhabdomyosarcoma, there remains a significant unmet need for more comprehensive studies to establish standardized diagnostic and therapeutic protocols.
Identification of subgroups of early-stage mycosis fungoides patients with increased itch and impaired quality of life
Authors: Nenonen Julia , Winther Anna H. , Jonsson Pontus , Ivert Lina U. , Brauner Hanna
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Mycosis fungoides (MF), Sézary syndrome (SS) and other cutaneous T-cell lymphomas (CTCLs) can have a severe impact on quality of life (QoL) and itch, but early MF is insufficiently investigated despite representing most patients. This single center study investigated associations between QoL/itch/depressive symptoms and clinical phenotypes in patients with CTCL with particular focus on early MF-stages.

Methods

Patients were included during routine dermatological care. The primary outcomes included Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI), EuroQoL 5D (EQ-5D) index, Montgomery-Åsberg Depression Rating Scale – Self report (MADRS-S), and itch measured with a visual analogue scale (VAS-itch).

Results

In the total CTCL cohort (n=76), median EQ-5D index was impaired in female vs male patients (0.73 vs 0.85, p = 0.040). Among early MF patients (n=58), increased disease activity correlated with impaired DLQI (r = 0.413, p = 0.0014) and EQ-5D index (r = -0.317, p = 0.0161). Early MF patients with plaques vs only patches reported impaired EQ-5D index (median 0.725 vs 0.848, p = 0.0032) and increased itch (median VAS 3.27 vs 0.43, p = 0.0006). MF patients with stage IB vs IA reported impaired DLQI (median 5.00 vs 1.00, p = 0.0006), impaired EQ-5D index (median 0.725 vs 0.848, p = 0.0040) and increased itch (median VAS 3.37 vs 0.54, p = 0.0487).

Discussion

Although early MF patients reported generally a mild impact on QoL, this study highlights the need for disease management optimization for subgroups of early MF patients, including those with plaques, stage IB and higher disease activity.