bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Itinéraire d'un fantasme criminel, de l'utopie vers la dystopie: Espaces de transgression dans Les Loups de Paris de Jules Lermina
Authors: Faivre Cyrielle
Published: January 2025

Dans Les Loups de Paris, Jules Lermina invite ses lecteurs à réfléchir aux modalités et effets de la transgression en tant qu’arme politique et sociale. Socialiste convaincu et anarchiste, Lermina fait du personnage de Biscarre, ancien bagnard en guerre contre la « vieille société », le porte-parole de ses idéaux socio-politiques, mais offre aussi l’illustration de l’échec de la promesse transgressive visant à mettre fin aux inégalités rongeant la société française du 19e siècle. Si la mythification des espaces criminels que régissent Biscarre et sa meute annoncent la possibilité d’une transgression salutaire, elle ne suffit pas, en revanche, à empêcher la tentation tyrannique du bagnard qui, par son autoritarisme aigu, fait échouer ce projet utopique qu’il promeut. Devenue dystopie, la transgression criminelle est alors présentée comme une parodie digne d’un théâtre de boulevard.
SKIN RASH CLASSIFICATION SYSTEM USING MODIFIED DENSENET201 THROUGH RANDOM SEARCH FOR HYPERPARAMETER TUNING
Authors: Riyana Putri Fayza Nayla , Isnanto R.Rizal , Sugiharto Aris
Published: January 2025

Skin rashes caused by various diseases, such as monkeypox, cowpox, chickenpox, measles, and HFMD, often present similar symptoms, making accurate diagnosis challenging. This study aims to improve the classification of skin diseases through the application of a modified DenseNet-201 architecture combined with hyperparameter optimization using Random Search. The base DenseNet-201 model, with pre-trained weights, was first tested, achieving an accuracy of 63%, with the highest performance in the Healthy and HFMD classes. The proposed modified model, optimized using Random Search, improved overall accuracy to 80%, with enhanced precision, recall, and F1-score across most classes. The model’s performance was particularly notable in the HFMD and normal skin classes, although further improvements are needed for challenging classes like Cowpox and Measles. The findings highlight the potential of Random Search for hyperparameter tuning to enhance the performance of deep convolutional neural networks in the medical image classification domain, offering a promising tool for efficient and accurate skin disease detection.
Effect of inside-outside school alternated teaching units on knowledge of the environment for physical conditioning and related psychological outcomes in the Physical Education setting: A cluster-randomized controlled trial
Authors: Guijarro-Romero Santiago
Published: January 2025

The main aim of the present study was to examine the effect of two inside-outside alternated teaching units on students’ environmental knowledge for physical conditioning outside of school, their perceptions of barriers, autonomy support, motivation towards physical activity, intention to be physically active, their habitual and extracurricular physical activity, and the regular use of their environment for practicing physical activity. One hundred and forty-six high school students (50% females) aged 11-15 years old participated in the study. Six pre-established classes, balanced by grade, were cluster-randomly assigned into the alternated group (n = 75) or traditional group (n = 71). The alternated group students performed two fitness-based teaching units twice a week for four weeks, alternating lessons inside and outside the school. Meanwhile, the traditional group students performed a fitness teaching unit solely having lessons inside the school center. All variables were measured before and after the intervention by validated questionnaires. The Multilevel Linear Model showed that the alternated teaching units improved students’ knowledge of their environment for physical conditioning, autonomy support, and autonomous motivation toward physical activity (p < 0.05; d = 0.16-1.30), while the rest of variables were not affected (p > 0.05). A four-week inside-outside school alternated teaching units improve students’ key predisposition variables of habitual physical activity, but not the practice in itself. Some ideas are discussed in order to improve future Physical Education programs.
Conocimiento sobre la ambliopía y factores asociados en estudiantes de medicina entre 5to y 7mo año de la UCSUR
Authors:   , Espino Velasquez Franco Gabriel
Published: January 2025

Introducción: El adecuado tamizaje de la ambliopía es importante por la afección negativa que tiene sobre la agudeza visual y percepción audiovisual de los pacientes, y el bienestar mental de sus padres. Las investigaciones expusieron problemáticas en el conocimiento acerca de la ambliopía. No obstante, estos no evaluaron a estudiantes de medicina. Objetivo: determinar el porcentaje de bajo conocimiento que poseen los estudiantes de medicina acerca de la ambliopía y hallar los factores que se asocien a este, comparando quinto año con el resto. Metodología: se optó por un estudio de tipo transversal con una muestra de 237 estudiantes de la carrera de medicina de quinto a séptimo año en el 2022, seleccionados mediante muestro por conveniencia y teniendo en cuenta un intervalo de confianza del 95 %. Estos se clasificaron en adecuado o bajo conocimiento dependiendo del puntaje obtenido utilizando un instrumento previamente validado. Se analizó con el programa STATA mediante Chi-cuadrado y una posterior regresión de Poisson, teniendo en cuenta un nivel de significancia p < 0.05. Resultados: 36.71% presentó bajo conocimiento sobre la ambliopía, asociado a un cumplimiento incompleto de las horas académicas (RP: 1.60, IC 95%: 1.02-2.51, p = 0.041) y tener a la lectura como recurso principal de estudio (RP: 2.23, IC 95%: 1.04-4.76, p = 0.039). Discusión: el porcentaje de bajo conocimiento fue cercano al esperado de 35%. Se asumió que las horas académicas tienen mayor impacto al ser menores en comparación con otras facultades, por lo que no cumplirlas por completo se asocia al bajo conocimiento. El efecto de las horas de estudio autónomo ausente al realizar el modelo de regresión ajustada se atribuyó a la influencia del recurso principal de estudio de los estudiantes, el cuál si estuvo asociado probablemente debido a la diferencia en efectividad de los métodos de estudio.
Efectividad de un programa “me amo y digo no” en el control de hábitos nocivos de los adolescentes de una institución educativa - Chilca
Authors:   , Rueda Cuya Ana Alicia , Santillán Tafur Stefany
Published: January 2025

Este estudio tuvo como Objetivo: evaluar la efectividad de un programa “ME AMO Y DIGO NO” en el control de hábitos nocivos de los adolescentes de una institución educativa de Chilca. Metodología: diseño cuantitativo, preexperimental de tipo aplicado, nivel explicativo, y cohorte longitudinal Se utilizó la fórmula estadística prueba W de Wilcoxon, aplicado 360 alumnos del centro educativo de Chilca, Lima-Perú. Se empleó el cuestionario estandarizado del Sistema Interamericano SIDUC/OEA/CICAD/OIC, módulos de alcohol y drogas. Resultados: en la dimensión drogas, para el pretest se obtuvo un valor de 0.437 y para el postest fue de 0.332. Mientras que en la dimensión alcohol, para el pretest se encontró un valor de 0.455 y para el postest fue de 0.980. Conclusión: El programa para el control de hábitos nocivos en adolescentes es más efectivo en el control del hábito nocivo del alcohol que en el de drogas. Se observa una diferencia significativa del 65% en el consumo de alcohol entre el antes y después de haber aplicado el programa, mientras que en el consumo de drogas, la variabilidad fue del 25.5% en el pretest y postest, demostrando una menor efectividad en la reducción de este hábito
Transdiagnostic Mechanisms of Emotional Dysregulation and Self-Criticism Between Maternal Invalidation and Internalizing Symptoms: A Parallel Mediation Model
Authors: Yazib Nur Haziqah Mohd
Published: January 2025

The parent-child relationship in childhood is significant in the child's development of psychopathology in later life, especially the mother who is often the primary caregiver. While invalidation is often associated with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), limited research has examined its association with other forms of psychopathology, specifically in Asia and there is a further gap examining its underlying mechanisms. This study examined the effect of maternal invalidation on various internalizing symptoms and whether difficulties in emotional regulation and self-criticism mediated the association between childhood invalidation and internalizing symptoms. Using a sample of Singaporean adults (N = 359), results revealed that maternal invalidation is significantly associated with symptoms of depression, social anxiety, and eating disorder. Mediation analyses revealed that emotional dysregulation and self-criticism fully mediated the association between maternal invalidation and internalizing symptoms. Overall, the present paper presents a parallel mediation model that delineates the influence of maternal invalidation on various internalizing symptoms through emotional dysregulation and self-criticism, which has been supported in depression and social anxiety disorder only. These findings provide empirical support that emphasizes the non-specificity of invalidation to BPD and the importance of emotional dysregulation and self-criticism in various internalizing symptoms. The implications and limitations are also discussed.
A highly effective self-supplying photosensitizer drug for deep-tissue metastatic tumours treatment
Authors: Yu Zhengze , Li Hanxiang , Xia Mingchao , Wang Yuhang , Zhang Hao , Tang Yue , Wang Hongyu , Tang Bo
Published: January 2025

Due to the inherent defects of photodynamic therapy (PDT), its application in the treatment of deep-tissue metastatic tumours remains challenging. To extend the applicability of PDT, a novel chemiluminescent photosensitizer, Cy7-EOM, was developed by covalently coupling the photosensitizer Cy7 with a peroxycatechol derivative and encapsulating it within folate-modified and disulfide-containing nano-micelles. Upon targeted delivery and selective release, positive charged Cy7-EOM would target the mitochondria and efficiently generate singlet oxygen (1O2) via intramolecular chemiluminescence resonance energy transfer (CRET) by endogenous H2O2, directly inducing mitochondrial damage and cell apoptosis, realizing an efficient PDT for deep-tissue metastatic tumours. Remarkably, the covalent linkage between the donor and the acceptor greatly reduces the distance, significantly enhancing CRET efficiency. Moreover, the tumour-specific decomposition of the nano-micelles prevents aggregation-induced quenching and mitigates the diffusion barrier of 1O2, while in normal tissues the integrality of nano-micelles shields the lethal effects of 1O2. This method provides a new strategy for transforming adjuvant photosensitizers into direct therapeutic drugs, with significant potential for clinical application in the treatment of metastatic tumours.
SuperSalt: Equivariant Neural Network Force Fields for Multicomponent Molten Salts System
Authors: Shen Chen , Attarian Siamak , Zhang Yixuan , Zhang Hongbin , Asta Mark , Szlufarska Izabela , Morgan Dane
Published: January 2025

Molten salts are crucial for clean energy applications, yet exploring their thermophysical properties across diverse chemical spaces remains challenging. We present the development of a machine learning interatomic potential (MLIP) called SuperSalt, which targets 11-cation chloride melts and captures the essential physics of molten salts with near-DFT accuracy. Using an efficient workflow that integrates systems of one, two, and 11 components, the SuperSalt potential can accurately predict thermophysical properties such as density, bulk modulus, thermal expansion, and heat capacity. Our model is validated across a broad chemical space, demonstrating excellent transferability. We further illustrate how Bayesian optimization combined with SuperSalt can accelerate the discovery of optimal salt compositions with desired properties. This work provides a foundation for future studies that allows easy extensions to more complex systems, such as those containing additional elements. SuperSalt represents a shift towards a more universal, efficient, and accurate modeling of molten salts for advanced energy applications.
Determinants of Campylobacter species diversity in infants and association with family members, livestock, and household environments in rural Eastern Ethiopia
Authors: Ojeda Amanda , Deblais Loïc , Mummed Bahar , Brhane Mussie , Hassen Kedir A. , Ahmedo Belisa Usmael , Weldesenbet Yenenesh Demisie , Chen Dehao , Li Xiaolong , Saleem Cyrus , Manary Mark J. , Roesch Luiz F.W. , McKune Sarah L. , Havelaar Arie H. , Rajashekara Gireesh
Published: January 2025

Background
Campylobacter infections pose a significant challenge in low- and middle-income countries, contributing to child mortality. Campylobacter is linked to acute gastrointestinal illness and severe long-term consequences, including environmental enteric dysfunction (EED) and stunting. In 2018, our cross-sectional study in Ethiopia detected Campylobacter in 88% of stools from children aged 12–15 months, with an average of 11 species per stool using meta-total RNA sequencing. Building on these findings, we conducted a longitudinal study (December 2020–June 2022) to investigate Campylobacter colonization of infants and identify reservoirs and risk factors in rural eastern Ethiopia.
Results
After a preliminary screening of 15 Campylobacter species using species-specific quantitative PCR, we analyzed four target species in 2,045 samples from infants (first month to just one year of life) and biannual samples from mothers, siblings, and livestock (goats, cattle, sheep, and chickens). Candidatus C. infans (41%), C. jejuni (26%), and C. upsaliensis (13%) were identified as the predominant in the infant gut. Colonization of C. infans and C.jejuni increased (C. infans: 0.85%, C. jejuni-0.98% increase/ day in the odds of colonization) and abundance (P = 0.027, 0.024) with age. Enteric symptoms were strongly associated with C. infans (diarrhea: OR = 2.02 [95%CI: 35%,100%]; fever: OR = 1.62 [95%CI: 14%, 83%]) and C. jejuni (diarrhea: OR = 2.29 [95%CI: 46%,100%], fever: OR = 2.53 [95%CI: 56%,100%]). Based on linear mixed models, we found elevated cumulative loads of C. infans load in infants (especially females OR = 1.5 [95%CI: 10%, 67%]), consuming raw milk (OR = 2.3 [95%CI: 24%,100%]) or those exposed to areas contaminated with animal droppings (OR = 1.6 [95%CI: 7%,93%]), while C. jejuni cumulative loads were higher in infants ingesting soil or animal feces (OR = 2.2 [95%CI: 23%,100%]). C. infans was also prevalent in siblings (56%) and mothers (45%), whereas C. jejuni was common in chickens (38%) and small ruminants (goats 27%, sheep 21%).
Conclusions
Campylobacter was highly prevalent in rural Ethiopian infants. C. infans was primarily associated with human hosts, and C. jejuni was mainly linked to zoonotic sources. Our findings emphasize the need for targeted interventions addressing environmental, dietary, and behavioral factors to reduce Campylobacter transmission in resource-limited settings.
Distal protection of endovascular recanalization for symptomatic non-acute occlusion of vertebrobasilar artery
Authors: Li Qiuli , Yao Xiaoxi , Lei Yuanbiao , Li Haipeng , Tu Liu , Zhang Yi
Published: January 2025

Purpose
The research aimed to investigate the safety and efficacy of distal protection of endovascular recanalization for symptomatic non-acute occlusion of the intracranial vertebrobasilar artery.
Methods
8 consecutive patients with symptomatic non-acute VBA from January April 2023 to April 2024 who underwent endovascular recanalization were retrospectively analyzed.
Results
8 patients (median age 56 years; mean pretreatment National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score 6; 87.5% male) presenting with recurrent transient ischemic attacks(TIAs) (n = 1) or strokes (n = 23) were treated from January April 2023 to April 2024. Median time from symptoms onet to treatment was 21 days(range: 10–43). Median time from occlusion confirmed to treatment was 13 days(range:8–26). Among the 8 patients, 8 (100%) achieved successful recanalization. The rate of periprocedural complications was 25%(2/8). Periprocedural complications included one asymptomatic intracranial hemorrhage(asICH) and thrombus translocation. The median follow-up time was 9 months (range: 6–12), with no stroke or TIA. At 90 days, there were one death (unrelated to the procedure) and 75% patients with an available modified Rankin Scale (mRS) score achieved a good outcome (mRS score of 0–2).
Conclusion
The distal protection of stent retriever for endovascular recanalization for symptomatic non-acute occlusion of VBA is technically safe and may decrease procedure-related complications.
Effects of irradiation and aging on the molecular and phase structure of poly(L-lactide): insights into degradation and recycling potential
Authors: Fedorenko Alexandra A. , Grinyuk Evgeny V. , Salnikova Iryna A. , Tychinskaya Lyudmila Yu. , Skakovsky Evgeny D. , Kostjuk Sergei V.
Published: January 2025

The impact of high-dose e-beam and γ-irradiation, followed by long-term aging, on the structural properties of poly(L-lactide) (PLA) was investigated. Due to prolonged exposure, γ-irradiation caused more extensive oxidative degradation, accelerating the aging process compared to e-beam irradiation. Aging effects were most pronounced in samples irradiated at doses exceeding 600 kGy. Structural analysis using 1H NMR revealed distinct mechanisms of chain scission during irradiation and aging, resulting in the formation of different end groups. Irradiation induced deterioration of PLA’s phase structure occurred during irradiation was observed, including the formation of conformationally disordered α’ crystalline form. Aging at doses exceeding 1000 kGy led to amorphization. The degradation behavior of aged PLA in water and its recycling potential were also evaluated. While partial dissolution of aged samples occurred in a short term, further degradation was hindered by water induced crystallization. Unirradiated and low-dose irradiated PLA demonstrated promising recyclability to lactide, highlighting its potential for industrial-scale chemical recycling as a sustainable alternative to landfilling or composting.
The Protective Role of PYY in Intestinal Mucosal Defects Induced by SATB2 Deficiency in Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Authors: Liu Yao , Wu Lanqing , Li Xiaoli , Chen Yongyu , Chen Ruidong , Lv Caiyun , Chen Juan , Fan Xin-Juan , Duan Guangxin , Zhong Fan , Sun Qi , Shi Qianyun , Ni Hengli , Sun Lina , Xu Jiaying , Tang Wen , Li J
Published: January 2025

Background Impaired colonic mucosal repair is a critical issue in inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD). SATB2 is essential for maintaining colonic epithelial homeostasis, but its role in mucosal repair is unclear.Objective To investigate how SATB2 deficiency impairs colonic mucosal repair in IBD and assess the therapeutic potential of peptide YY (PYY) in enhancing colonic epithelial regeneration.Design Flow cytometry was used to assess SATB2’s role in colonic epithelial repair in a radiation injury model. SATB2 knockout mice were used to validate repair impairment. The effect of SATB2 loss on PYY expression was evaluated both in vivo and ex vivo. Molecular mechanisms of SATB2 regulation on PPAR-γ and the role of PYY were examined using confocal microscopy and immunoblotting. PYY’s role in epithelial repair was assessed in organoids from Crohn’s disease patients.Results Satb2 expression correlated with colonic mucosal repair. Satb2 loss impaired colonic epithelial repair, reducing goblet and enteroendocrine cells. The most prominent enteroendocrine hormone, PYY, showed a significant decrease in colonic mucosa after Satb2 loss. At the molecular level, Satb2 directly regulated the transcription of PPAR-γ. PYY could enter the nucleus and promote the transcription of downstream genes of PPAR-γ. PYY promoted epithelial repair more effectively than the PPAR-γ agonist rosiglitazone. Additionally, PYY enhanced colonic epithelial regeneration in Crohn’s disease patient-derived organoids.Conclusion The impairment of colonic epithelial repair resulting from Satb2 loss could be ameliorated through PYY supplementation, which facilitates coloninc epithelial repair by activating the transcription of downstream genes associated with PPAR-γ.
Development and validation of a mortality risk prediction model for patients with bone tumors using the MIMIC-IV database: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Gao Jian , Su Shu Dong , Wang Yong
Published: January 2025

Background:Bone tumors (BT) are neoplasms that occur in the skeletal system or its affiliated tissues and can be categorized into primary and secondary malignant tumors. Currently, malignant bone tumors are associated with poor prognosis and high mortality rates. The central motivation for this scholarly research was to construct a mortality risk prediction model for BT patients.
Methods: In this study, data on BT patients traceable to Medical Information Mart for Intensive Care IV (MIMIC-IV) were utilized to predict the mortality risk of BT patients. A total of 3,061 adults participated in the study, and through ICD-9 and ICD-10, they were categorized into two groups. In order to assess the impact of potential confounders on outcome BT, This study selected some important variables as covariates. Then, identified through the proportional hazards (PH) assumption test, univariate Cox analysis, and machine learning. Subsequently, a nomogram was constructed and assessed.
Results: In this study, the subjects included 303 survivors and 82 deceased. An analysis of the two groups of subjects found that there were significant differences in 7 covariates, such as hemoglobin, sodium, and prothrombin time (PT). Further laboratory - index tests showed that there were significant differences in 11 covariates between the outcome - variable groups, among which were bicarbonate and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) scores. The results of the independent prognostic tests indicated that race, Simplified Acute Physiology II (SAPS II), platelets, blood sodium, and PT could serve as independent prognostic indicators for BT patients. Finally, based on these five independent prognostic factors, a nomogram with good predictive ability was constructed.
Conclusion: Based on five independent prognostic factors (race, Simplified Acute Physiology II (SAPS II), platelets, blood sodium, and PT), this study successfully constructed a nomogram with good predictive ability. It provided a valuable new perspective for understanding the model of predicting the in - hospital death risk of BT patients.
Steroid hormone biosynthesis pathway indicates platinum chemoresistance: Insights From Genomics and Metabolomics
Authors: Song Yongzhen , Zheng Xiaohan , Cao Yong , Wang Yaru , Zhang Huimin , Ge Kaiyuan , Zhang Qi , Wang Meng , Zhang Xuan , Wang Hesong , Jin Shuo , Cao Lei , Zhao Weiwei , Wang Liuying
Published: January 2025

Background
Platinum-based chemotherapy is commonly used in first-line cancer treatments. However, because of drug resistance, some patients cannot benefit from this treatment. This study aimed to identify platinum-resistance-related biological pathways and validate them in metabolomics data.
Methods
Using the Transcriptome data of pan-cancer cell lines, random forest and Diffrank algorithms were utilized to identify differential pathways between cisplatin-resistant and -sensitive groups. Untargeted metabolomics measured from colorectal cancer plasma was used to examine the selected pathway.
Results
Steroid hormone biosynthesis pathway was selected as the most differential pathway between platinum-sensitive and resistant groups. In the colorectal cancer metabolic dataset, eight metabolites in this pathway were enriched, among which the three highest predictive metabolites were used for calculating prognosis index. Prognosis indexs for predicting progression free survival and overall survival achieved area under receiver operating characteristics curve values of 0.6509 and 0.8088 in preoperative plasma and 0.9698 and 0.9709 in postoperative plasma. Kaplan-Meier curves showed progression free survival was significantly different between high- and low-level prognosis index groups in both preoperative (P = 0.0405) and postoperative plasma (P = 0.0079).
Conclusions
Using biological pathways as a bridge, drug-sensitivity-related pathways and metabolic biomarkers can be identified. Thus, this scheme is promising for personalized treatment.
A New Chapter after a Century of Journey: The Instructional Process and Community Involvement in Preprimary Schools
Authors: Ayechew Kindu Ayechew , Abate Samuel Getnet , Adane Meseret , Mesfin Shimelis , Assefa Tamirat , Bitewa Kagnew Tarekegn
Published: January 2025

Preprimary education has become a primary focus of the Ethiopian education system. However, there is limited research on the implementation of government preprimary schools (O-Class), particularly regarding the teaching and learning processes and community participation. This study aims to investigate the instructional processes and community involvement in public preprimary schools within the Amhara National Regional State of Ethiopia. To achieve this objective, a convergent parallel mixed-method research design was employed. Data were collected from teachers, school principals, and district education officers through questionnaires, interviews, and observations. The results indicate that teachers employed various teaching strategies. Nonetheless, the findings highlighted common challenges in preprimary schools, including inadequate teaching and learning resources (both indoor and outdoor), an unfavorable learning environment, and insufficient community and parental involvement. The implementation of diverse teaching strategies amidst these challenges may be attributed to the presence of relatively qualified teachers. Based on the main findings of the study, it is recommended to place greater emphasis on the quality of preprimary education. This can be achieved through strong collaboration with relevant stakeholders, including communities (parents), local governments, and NGOs, to enhance access to teaching and learning resources and facilities and to create a conducive physical learning environment for children.
EFL Teachers’ Textbook Evaluation Practices, their Perception and Challenges: General Secondary School Teachers in Focus
Authors: Berta Getaneh
Published: January 2025

The aim of the study was to assess EFL teachers’ English for Ethiopia students’ textbook evaluation practices, their perception and challenges to evaluate textbooks. A sample of forty-eight EFL teachers who were chosen through convenient sampling technique from eleven schools that are found in Dessie City, Ethiopia involved in the study. Questionnaire and semi-structured interview were the types of data gathering instruments that the researcher employed to collect data from those teacher respondents. After gathering data, mixed method of data analysis was utilized in order to analyse those obtained data. As the results indicate, EFL teachers did not have a good practice of evaluating English for Ethiopia students’ textbooks. Additionally, although they had good perception on the term textbook evaluation, lack of motivation, lack of continuous training on textbook evaluation and lack of incentive were some of the challenges that EFL teachers encountered in their textbook evaluation. Accordingly, it can be concluded that EFL teachers did not evaluate the physical aspects, contents, activities, and cultural balances of any textbooks. Hence, it is recommended that EFL teachers should enhance their practice of evaluating English for Ethiopia students’ textbooks for the betterment of the materials and fulfil the needs of their students.
Minimally invasive resection Rectopexy as a treatment method for obstructive defecation (ODS): functional outcome in ODS; constipation and fecal incontinence
Authors: Driouch Jamal , Schlaffke Lara , Sajid Shazadi , Bausch Dirk , Thaher Omar
Published: January 2025

Minimally invasive resection rectopexy is an effective treatment for obstructive defecation syndrome (ODS) in carefully selected patients, offering promising functional outcomes with potentially reduced surgical burden. As minimally invasive techniques gain traction in colorectal surgery, combining resection rectopexy with Natural Orifice Specimen Extraction (NOSE) or minilaparotomy specimen retrieval may enhance bowel function by reducing constipation and fecal incontinence. We hypothesize that outcomes are influenced by disease severity.
Methods
Minimally invasive resection rectopexy was performed on 85 ODS patients. Patient-specific characteristics were assessed using standardized questionnaires. Data were obtained from a prospectively maintained data registry. Surgical outcomes, complications, and patient satisfaction were evaluated 1, 3, and 6 months postoperatively. Symptom severity was measured with the Wexner Constipation Score (WCS), Wexner Incontinence Score (WIS), and Altomare Obstructive Defecation Syndrome (AOS) Score. Repeated measures ANOVA assessed the effect of surgery on the acquired outcome measures over time.
Results
All procedures were completed laparoscopically without conversion. The mean patient age was 58.5 years (SD: 16.5). Complications included Clavien-Dindo IIIa (n=3), IIIb (n=8), and IVa (n=1). Repeated measures ANOVA revealed significant improvements in WCS (p < 0.0001) and AOS (p < 0.0001), while WIS changes were nonsignificant but showed a gender effect (p = 0.011). Post hoc analyses by gender revealed no significant temporal effects for WIS.
Conclusion
Minimally invasive resection rectopexy provides significant symptom relief, particularly for constipation and obstructive defecation. While fecal incontinence outcomes remain variable, the procedure is feasible, and significantly improves quality of life in ODS patients.
Reconstruction of the perineal defect after abdominoperineal resection with vertical rectus abdominis myocutaneous (VRAM) flap versus primary direct closure - a single center retrospective cohort study
Authors: Kalev Georgi , Buettner Sylvia , El-Ahmar Mohamad , Reissfelder Christoph , Seyfried Steffen , Vassilev Georgi , Hardt Julia
Published: January 2025

Purpose
The closure of the perineal defect following pelvic surgery that includes abdomino-perineal resection (APR) can often be challenging and remains an important issue given the reported high wound morbidity. The vertical rectus abdominis myocutaneous (VRAM) flap, which was proposed in the past as an alternative to direct closure (DC), enables the reconstruction of extensive perineal wounds.
Methods
184 consecutive patients who underwent abdominoperineal resection at tertiary university institution between January 2014 and June 2024 were included in this retrospective analysis. The aim of the study was to evaluate the outcomes of perineal wound reconstruction using a VRAM flap (n = 29) compared to DC (n = 155).
Results
The rate of overall perineal and abdominal wall wound complications did not differ significantly (p = 0.321 and p = 1.000, respectively). However, significantly more pelvic abscesses requiring CT-guided percutaneous drainage were observed in the DC-group (p = 0.048). Subgroup analysis of patients who underwent radiochemotherapy prior to surgery revealed lower incidence of severe perineal complications after VRAM flap reconstruction of the perineal defect (p = 0.037).
Conclusion
The VRAM flap has proven to be a safe technique and should be considered especially for the reconstruction of extensive perineal defects following pelvic surgery.
Anti-hyperglycemic, Anti-hyperlipidemic, Hematological, Hepatoprotective, And Anti-oxidant Effects of Vernoniaamygdalina on Alloxan-induced Diabetic Wistar Rats
Authors: OGAR OCHONUNG EMMANUEL , MESSIAH ATAPIA INNOCENT , ADEWUYI HASSAN ABDULSALAM , ADIO WAHEED SAKARIYAU , OLUWATOYIN ADEBIMPE HAMEEDAH , OBUNADIKE CHIZOBA VICTORY , MOHAMMED USMAN ABIOLA , SHEKARI ABEDNEGO , AUGUSTINE BLESSING , SEBASTINE KEVIN LUKA , OLUKAYODE JAIYEOLA TOLULOPE
Published: January 2025

Background: Diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by high blood sugar levels, which can lead to various complications such as cardiovascular disease, kidney damage, and nerve damage. Vernoniaamygdalina, a plant species used in traditional medicine, particularly in Africa, has been reported to possess antidiabetic and antioxidant properties. This study aimed to investigate the antidiabetic, antihyperlipidemic, and antioxidant effects of Vernoniaamygdalina extract in alloxan-induced diabetic rats.
Methods: Thirty adult Wistar rats were randomly divided into five groups. Diabetes was induced using alloxan monohydrate (150 mg/kg, i.p.). The rats received either distilled water (normal control), alloxan (diabetic control), metformin (100 mg/kg), or Vernonia amygdalina extract (200 or 400 mg/kg). Blood glucose, lipid profiles, liver enzymes, and antioxidant activity were measured according to standard protocols.
Results: Vernonia amygdalina extract (400 mg/kg) significantly reduced blood glucose levels, improved lipid profiles, and decreased liver enzymes. The extract also exhibited antioxidant activity with an IC50 value of 50 μg/mL.
Discussion: This study demonstrates the potential antidiabetic, antihyperlipidemic, antioxidant, and hepatoprotective effects of Vernoniaamygdalinaextract, highlighting its potential as a therapeutic agent in the management of diabetes and its complications.
Short-term Efficacy and Safety of Ologen Collagen Matrix Implantation for Glaucoma Surgery: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-analysis
Authors: Zhou Xi
Published: January 2025

Importance
This network meta-analysis was aimed to evaluate how Ologen will do when combined with different interventions for glaucoma patients.
Objective
To compare the effectiveness and safety of surgical treatments combined with Ologen and other commonly used treatments for glaucoma.
Data Sources and Study Selection
This network meta-analysis included randomized or non-randomized controlled trials and retrospective trials that compared interventions concerning Ologen and other treatments for glaucoma. The following databases were searched up to January 1, 2023: PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library and Web of Science.
Data Extraction and Synthesis
Data extraction, quality and validity assessing were under the guidelines of 'Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses'. The demographic character of the included patients and outcomes was extracted independently by 2 investigators. Random-effects model was used to pool the estimate values.
Mean outcomes and measures
Mean differences for intraocular pressure reduction at 12 months postoperatively and the odds ratios for success rate at the end of follow-up time were the primary and secondary outcome. Measurement of outcomes were reported by 95% credibility intervals, and P < 0.05 was considered statistically significantly.
Results
This meta-analysis included 35 covering 2477 patients. We discussed 17 interventions, of which 10 had relevant outcomes in intraocular pressure reduction and 17 had relevant outcomes in success rate. When the intraocular pressure reduction was discussed, no pairwise comparison was statistically significant. While for success rate, pairwise comparisons that had statistically significant were detailed in the results and appendix section of this text. The best interventions are as follows: glaucoma drainage device combined with Ologen (success rate, surface under the cumulative ranking = 78.9) and trabeculectomy combined with Ologen (intraocular pressure reduction 12 mouths after surgery, surface under the cumulative ranking = 64). Adverse events were also calculated in details.
Conclusion and Relevance
Glaucoma drainage device combined with Ologen and trabeculectomy combined with Ologen are the most effective interventions for success rate and intraocular pressure reduction at 12 months postoperatively. However, more clinical studies are still in need to confirm this conclusion and to assess the long-term safety of these interventions.
Trial Registration
PROSPERO Identifier: CRD42023395804
The Sunrise Ultraviolet Spectropolarimeter and Imager: Standalone polarimetric calibration
Authors: Iglesias Francisco A. , Feller Alex , Gandorfer Achim , Riethmüller Tino L. , Korpi-Lagg Andreas , Solanki Sami K. , Katsukawa Yukio , Kubo Masahito , Toledo Mariano Sanchez
Published: January 2025

Sunrise is a 1-m optical solar observatory carried aloft by a stratospheric balloon. It was developed to study magnetic fields and plasma flows in the solar atmosphere with very high spatial resolution and sensitivity. The Sunrise UV Spectropolarimeter and Imager (SUSI) operates in the 309-417 nm range, covering thousands of spectral lines that are poorly accessible from the ground and largely unexplored. The instrument includes a dual-beam polarimeter based on a rotating waveplate, a polarization beam splitter and two custom-made CMOS cameras. SUSI gathers data at high spectral, spatial and temporal resolution. These data are stored onboard during flight. Given that SUSI does not include a polarimetric calibration unit onboard, its polarimetric demodulation matrix is estimated during laboratory calibration measurements prior to its flight. The quality of this calibration is crucial to accurately demodulate the data post-flight and reach the instrument's maximum polarimetric sensitivity goal of 1x10-3 of the continuum intensity. In this paper, we report the results of eighth polarimetric calibrations of SUSI standalone, acquired at six different wavelengths using artificial LED light sources. The field-dependant demodulation matrices obtained are within the values expected from the design, including their polarimetric efficiencies and temporal stability. The matrices are also confirmed to satisfy the calibration repeatability criterion imposed by the SUSI sensitivity goal.
Distribution and antimicrobial resistance of Acinetobacter spp. isolated from different types of infections from hospitalized patients and outpatients in Poland
Authors: Tomasz Kasperski , Monika Pobiega , Monika Pomorska-Wesołowska , Wiktoria Papuga , Agnieszka Chmielarczyk
Published: January 2025

Background:
Acinetobacter baumannii (AB) is the most frequently isolated nosocomial pathogen, but severe infections by A. pittii, A. ursingii, and A. bereziniaeare increasing. This study investigated the distribution and antibiotic resistance of Acinetobacter spp. strains from various infections.
Methods:
Data were collected between 2021–2023 from clinical samples of hospitalized and outpatient individuals in southern Poland. Strains were identified using MALDI-TOF Biotyper, and antibiotic susceptibility was tested with the MIDITECH-Analyzer system. Statistical analyses were conducted using IBM SPSS Statistics.
Results:
Among 1507 isolated Acinetobacter strains, 951 (63.1%) were AB, while 556 (36.9%) represented 27 non-AB species. Most isolates (73.6%) came from outpatients, while 26.4% were from hospitalized patients. A. ursingii (30.2%), A. pittii (20.6%), and A. junii(13%) were the most common non-AB species. A. bereziniae, A. calcoaceticus, and A. proteolyticus were more frequently found in hospitalized patients. Non-AB species dominated in/among genital tract infections (87%), whereas AB was more common in invasive infections. Nearly all strains were non-susceptible to ciprofloxacin (98.4%), with lower resistance rates to ampicillin/sulbactam (11.1%), trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole (5.8%), gentamicin (2.9%), amikacin (2.5%), meropenem (1.6%), and colistin (1.6%). A. bereziniae showed frequently resistance to carbapenems, aminoglycosides, and trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole. Colistin resistance was observed in A. ursingii and A. pittii.
Conclusions:
While AB accounted for 63.1% of isolates, non-AB species were common, particularly in genitourinary and skin infections. Emerging hospital-acquired infections by species like A. pittii underline the need for vigilant monitoring. The high resistance to ciprofloxacin and low but noticeable resistance to carbapenems and colistin highlights the importance of early detection and resistance surveillance to prevent the spread of resistant strains.
Dimensions And Challenges Associated With Mental Health Support Groups In Zambia: A Service Provider Perspective
Authors: Mulungu Choongo , Shawa Jackson , Matongo Evelyn Mwangala
Published: January 2025

Introduction: The burgeoning impact of mental illness over the last two decades underscores a global health crisis, exacerbated by disparities faced by ethnic minorities in accessing quality care. Mental health challenges pose a significant burden on individuals, families, and the Zambian healthcare system. While significant advances have been made around mental health, there is still a significant bias towards pharmacological and counselling interventions while hardly prescribing support groups. This study sought to investigate the landscape of mental health support groups in Zambia by understanding the dimensions and challenges faced by facilitators.
Materials and Methods: This was a mixed methodology study employing explanatory sequential design in which quantitative data will be sought first and supported by qualitative findings. The study involved 23 support groups facilitators majority (12 respondents) of whom were males.
Results: The study found that support groups for mental health operate in private premises and institutions while other groups operate a hybrid of physical and virtual and others are completely virtual. Majority of the groups are organized by psychologists followed by non-medical facilitators who previously had mental disorders and felt the need to support others. Further, all facilitators had no competency specific for facilitating mental health support groups. Lack of financial support, general infrastructure and space for meetings, and network connectivity were challenges faced by facilitators while noting awareness and stigma reduction, recovery prognosis and improved service uptake as opportunities associated with effective mental health support groups.
Conclusion: The study concludes that existing mental health support groups operating in community-based settings as well as hospitals are a resource for patients, facilitators, and health systems provided they are supported and staff are trained on facilitation.
Financial Development and Economic Growth Nexus in Nigeria: A Cointegration Analysis
Authors: Lawal Dolapo Temitayo
Published: January 2025

This paper examines the short-run and long-run relationship between financial development and economic growth in Nigeria. After performing cointegration tests, the study estimates error correction models of economic growth on financial development using the autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) and the nonlinear autoregressive distributed lag (NARDL) approach. The NARDL modelling approach accounts for possible asymmetries in financial development. The study also estimates a vector error correction model with exogenous variables (VECM-X) to observe the relationship in the presence of endogeneity between financial development and economic growth. Annual data on Nigeria’s real gross domestic product is used as a proxy for economic growth, and the financial development index computed by the International Monetary Fund is employed as a proxy for financial development from 1981 to 2020. The Bounds and Johansen cointegration tests show a long-run relationship in the three models. Furthermore, the negative signs and magnitude of the coefficients of the error correction terms suggest mean reversion in all the models. While the study finds cointegration among the variables in all the models, the financial development index is insignificant in the long run and often negatively relates to the real gross domestic product. This paper concludes that financial development does not significantly lead to growth in the real sector, especially in the long run.
JEL Classification: C32, E44, O15, O47
Causal pathways from sustainable practices to economic stability through food security: An SEM approach
Authors: Woudneh Awoke Fetahi
Published: January 2025

Introduction:This study investigates the complex interplay between sustainable agricultural practices, food security, and economic stability through structural equation modeling (SEM). It seeks to elucidate how different farming practices impact food security and, in turn, economic stability, while considering the influence of socio-demographic and regional factors.
Methods:Using SEM, we analyzed data on sustainable agricultural practices, food security metrics, and economic stability indicators. The model accounted for variables such as crop types, educational attainment, and regional factors, including geographic location and climate. Despite some concerns regarding data quality, the model fit indices demonstrated that the model performed adequately.
Results:The findings reveal that food security exerts a robust positive effect on economic stability. Among sustainable agricultural practices, organic farming and conservation tillage were particularly effective in enhancing food security, while agroforestry showed less consistent results. Socio-demographic factors, such as education level and gender, as well as regional factors like climate and geographic location, significantly influenced both food security and economic stability.
Conclusion:This research underscores the pivotal role of food security in promoting economic stability and highlights the advantages of adopting sustainable agricultural practices. Organic farming and conservation tillage are shown to have significant positive effects on food security, although agroforestry's impact is variable. Additionally, socio-demographic and regional factors play a critical role in shaping food security and economic outcomes. These insights are valuable for policymakers and practitioners aiming to enhance agricultural productivity and economic resilience.