bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gender Disparities in Pandemic-Related Strains, Digital Coping Strategies, and Protective Mechanisms Among Rural-to-Urban Migrant Working Adolescents in China
Authors: Jia Xinge , Zhong Hua , Wang Qian , Wu Qiaobing
Published: January 2025

The COVID-19 pandemic placed significant strains on daily life, particularly affecting vulnerable groups such as rural-to-urban young migrant workers. Based on General Strain Theory (GST), these pandemic-related strains lead to delinquent copings, including excessive Internet use. However, the association between pandemic-related challenges faced by migrant youth and their digital copings has yet to be investigated. GST also posits that some conditioning factors, such as conventional beliefs, internal resilience and life satisfaction, might serve as protective factors, which can help to alleviate the disruptive consequences of the pandemic-related strains. Utilizing the fourth sweep of International Self-Report Delinquency Survey (ISRD4) in China comprising 769 working migrant adolescents aged 16 to 19, who did not attend high school, the present study examines variations in pandemic-related strains, frequent use of the Internet for gaming and social media, and their associations. In addition, this study investigates the moderating effect of three protective factors: conventional beliefs, internal resilience and life satisfaction. Results indicated that economic strain, information strain and health-related strain significantly influenced digital coping strategies, with notable gender differences. Conventional beliefs served as a significant moderator for males, while life satisfaction played a more significant moderating role for females. Relevant policy implications are then discussed.
Understanding Factors Influencing Whole-Process Consulting Service Quality: Based on a Mixed Research Method
Authors: Cui Qinghong , Zhao Haoran , Zhang Haiyang , Hu Xiancun , Wang Guangbin
Published: January 2025

To address the fragmentation in the engineering consulting industry, whole-process consulting (WPC) has undergone rapid development in China. Engineering consulting companies are actively transitioning towards WPC and aiming to enhance whole-process consulting service quality (WPCSQ). However, research on WPCSQ and its influencing factors is still lacking. This paper adopts a mixed research approach combining qualitative and quantitative methods. Initially, the grounded theory (GT) method is used to determine the influencing factors of WPCSQ, and the TEOK model is constructed. Then, Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) is utilized for model validation. The results show that WPCSQ is most affected by knowledge management and least affected by organizational factors. Based on the above analyses, recommendations for improving WPCSQ are provided from the viewpoints of engineering consulting companies and governments. These suggestions are aimed at fostering the healthy and sustainable progression of WPC.
Targeting the MDM2-p53 Interaction with Siremadlin: A Promising Therapeutic Strategy for Treating TP53 Wild-Type Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia
Authors: Aptullahoglu Erhan , Howladar Mohammed , Wallis Jonathan P. , Marr Helen , Marshall Scott , Irving Julie , Willmore Elaine , Lunec John
Published: January 2025

Background: Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) treatment has transitioned from traditional chemotherapy to more targeted therapies, but challenges such as resistance and suboptimal responses persist. This study aimed to evaluate HDM201, a second-generation MDM2-p53 binding antagonist, as a novel therapeutic strategy for CLL, with a focus on its effectiveness across different TP53 genetic contexts. Methods: We utilized a panel of B cell leukemia-derived cell lines with varying TP53 statuses, including TP53-knockout (KO) derivatives of the human B cell line Nalm-6, and assessed the impact of HDM201 on primary CLL samples with both TP53 wild-type and mutant backgrounds. Results: Our results revealed that TP53 wild-type and heterozygous TP53-KO Nalm-6 cells were sensitive to HDM201, whereas homozygous TP53-KO cells and B cells with TP53 mutations exhibited significant resistance. Resistance was also noted in primary CLL samples with TP53 mutations. HDM201 effectively stabilized p53 and induced apoptosis in TP53 wild-type cells but had limited efficacy in TP53 mutant cells. Conclusions: These findings indicate that HDM201 holds promise as an additional targeted therapy option for wild-type TP53 CLL. The results underline the importance of TP53 status in predicting treatment efficacy and highlight the potential of HDM201 as a valuable addition to explore in CLL therapy. Future research should focus on identifying additional biomarkers of response and exploring the optimal way to include HDM201 in combination therapies to improve treatment outcomes in CLL.
Resection of Meningiomas Invading the Cavernous Sinus: Treatment Strategy and Clinical Outcomes
Authors: Sugawara Takashi , Maehara Taketoshi
Published: January 2025

Background/Objectives: Resection of tumors invading the cavernous sinus (CS) carries a risk of injury to the cranial nerves and internal carotid artery. Therefore, radical surgery involving lesions around the CS remains challenging, especially for lesions invading the CS, optic sheath, and oculomotor cave. Here, we describe a surgical strategy for meningiomas invading these structures and report on the clinical outcomes. Methods: Surgical resection was indicated in patients with neurological symptoms or rapid tumor growth for the restoration of cranial nerve function. We investigated 13 patients who had preoperative images of CS invasion, underwent surgical resection, and were followed-up with magnetic resonance imaging for at least 1 year between July 2017 and July 2024. Their preoperative symptoms, postoperative course, adjuvant therapy, postoperative complications, degree of resection, and recurrence were evaluated. Results: The mean patient age was 59.1 years (range, 23–73 years), and 10 were female. Major preoperative symptoms included oculomotor nerve paresis in 8 patients (61.5%), abducens nerve paresis in 6 (46.2%), visual disturbance in 7 (53.8%), and brain swelling in 3 (23.1%). These symptoms improved at least partially after surgery in 7 (87.5%), 5 (83.3%), 7 (100%), and 3 (100%) patients, respectively. Major postoperative complications included contralateral visual deterioration in 1 patient (7.7%) and brief transient slight hemiparesis caused by internal carotid vasospasm or dissection in 2 (15.4%). Four patients with residual atypical meningioma in the CS underwent intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT). The lesions in 6 patients recurred or regrew, resulting in additional treatment with stereotactic radiosurgery in 2 patients, IMRT in 3, and resection in 1. Conclusions: Our surgical strategy for the surgical resection of meningiomas in and around the CS for the restoration of cranial nerve function is safe and effective, with only transient acceptable injuries. Even if the tumor in the CS is too stiff to be removed, it is important to open the optic nerve sheath and oculomotor cave widely to effectively remove the tumor.
Phase II Study of Atezolizumab and Bevacizumab Combination Therapy for Patients with Advanced Hepatocellular Carcinoma Previously Treated with Lenvatinib
Authors: Terashima Takeshi , Kido Hidenori , Takata Noboru , Hayashi Tomoyuki , Seki Akihiro , Nakagawa Hidetoshi , Nio Kouki , Toyama Tadashi , Iida Noriho , Yamada Shinya , Shimakami Tetsuro , Takatori Hajime , Arai Kuniaki , Yamashita Tatsuya , Mizukoshi Eishiro , Yamashita Taro
Published: January 2025

Background/Objectives: Atezolizumab and bevacizumab combination therapy has been established as a standard of care for first-line treatment; however, its efficacy and safety have not been fully evaluated for patients previously treated with systemic therapy. Methods: In this phase II trial, patients with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma previously treated with lenvatinib were enrolled to receive a dose of 1,200 mg of atezolizumab and 15 mg/kg of bevacizumab every 3 weeks. The primary endpoint was progression-free survival. The secondary endpoints included overall survival, objective response rate, disease control rate, subsequent therapy, and frequency of adverse events. The threshold and expected progression-free survival were 3 and 6.8 months, respectively. Considering a one-sided significance level of 0.05 and a statistical power of 80%, the minimum required sample size was 26 patients. Results: The median progression-free survival from the start of treatment was 9.70 [90% confidence interval, 5.10–14.24] months, and the lower limit of the 90% CI was above the predefined threshold. The objective response and disease control rates were 34.6% and 73.1%, respectively. Sixteen patients (61.5%) received subsequent therapies, and the median overall survival was 17.23 [90% confidence interval, 13.18–27.85] months. Severe adverse events, adverse events leading to treatment delays, and adverse events leading to treatment discontinuation occurred in eight (30.8%), fourteen (53.8%), and five (19.2%) patients, respectively, and no treatment-related deaths occurred. Conclusions: Atezolizumab and bevacizumab combination therapy is effective and can safely be administered to patients with advanced HCC previously treated with lenvatinib.
Dysregulation of Metabolic Peptides Precedes Hyperinsulinemia and Inflammation Following Exposure to Rotenone in Rats
Authors: Zaman Vandana , Matzelle Denise , Banik Naren L. , Haque Azizul
Published: January 2025

Rotenone, a naturally occurring compound derived from the roots of tropical plants, is used as a broad-spectrum insecticide, piscicide, and pesticide. It is a classical, high-affinity mitochondrial complex I inhibitor that causes not only oxidative stress, α-synuclein phosphorylation, DJ-1 (Parkinson’s disease protein 7) modifications, and inhibition of the ubiquitin-proteasome system but it is also widely considered an environmental contributor to Parkinson’s disease (PD). While prodromal symptoms, such as loss of smell, constipation, sleep disorder, anxiety/depression, and the loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra of rotenone-treated animals, have been reported, alterations of metabolic hormones and hyperinsulinemia remain largely unknown and need to be investigated. Whether rotenone and its effect on metabolic peptides could be utilized as a biomarker for its toxic metabolic effects, which can cause long-term detrimental effects and ultimately lead to obesity, hyperinsulinemia, inflammation, and possibly gut–brain axis dysfunction, remains unclear. Here, we show that rotenone disrupts metabolic homeostasis, altering hormonal peptides and promoting infiltration of inflammatory T cells. Specifically, our results indicate a significant decrease in glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), C-peptide, and amylin. Interestingly, levels of several hormonal peptides related to hyperinsulinemia, such as insulin, leptin, pancreatic peptide (PP), peptide YY (PYY), and gastric inhibitory polypeptide (GIP), were significantly upregulated. Administration of rotenone to rats also increased body weight and activated macrophages and inflammatory T cells. These data strongly suggest that rotenone disrupts metabolic homeostasis, leading to obesity and hyperinsulinemia. The potential implications of these findings are vast, given that monitoring these markers in the blood could not only provide a crucial tool for assessing the extent of exposure and its relevance to obesity and inflammation but could also open new avenues for future research and potential therapeutic strategies.
Interaction Between Malat1 and miR-499-5p Regulates Meis1 Expression and Function with a Net Impact on Cell Proliferation
Authors: Fahim Salma A. , Ragheb Manon , Fayed Ibrahim Hassan , Osama Aya , Karam Ahmed , Magdeldin Sameh , Metwale Rana , Elsayed Mohamed Dief Allah Abdalmoneam , Abdellatif Ahmed , Sadek Hesham A. , El Sobky Shereen Ahmed , El-Ekiaby Nada , Fawzy Injie Omar , Abdelaziz Ahmed Ihab
Published: January 2025

Meis1 is a transcription factor involved in numerous functions including development and proliferation and has been previously shown to harness cell cycle progression. In this study, we used in silico analysis to predict that miR-499-5p targets Meis1 and that Malat1 sponges miR-499-5p. For the first time, we demonstrated that the overexpression of miR-499-5p led to the downregulation of Meis1 mRNA and protein in C166 cells by directly binding to its 3’UTR. Moreover, knocking down Malat1 increased miR-499-5p expression, subsequently suppressing Meis1. Through BrdU incorporation assay, we showed that the knockdown of Malat1, Meis1, or mimicking with miR-499-5p promoted cell proliferation. Enrichment analyses on proteins identified via mass spectrometry after manipulating Malat1, miR-499-5p, or Meis1 revealed a multitude of differentially expressed proteins related to cell cycle, cell division, and key pathways like Wnt and mTOR, essential for cell proliferation. Collectively, our findings confirm that Malat1 sponges miR-499-5p, regulating Meis1, and that Malat1/miR-499-5p/Meis1 could potentially form an axis that has a pivotal influence on cellular proliferation.
Dietary Habits and Nutritional Status of Youths Living in Rural and Semi-Urban Albania in the Ongoing Nutrition Transition: Preliminary Results
Authors: Cakoni Ruden , Moramarco Stefania , Kosiqi Argjend , Andreoli Angela , Buonomo Ersilia
Published: January 2025

Background: Albania is undergoing a demographic, epidemiological, and nutrition transition leading to an increased prevalence of overweight and obesity among new generations. Comprehensive studies on the nutritional status and dietary patterns of youths in the country are still lacking. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on a convenience sample of students (10–18 years) attending secondary schools in rural and semi-urban areas (October–November 2024). Information collected included socio-demographic data, anthropometric measurements (weight, height), and adherence to the Mediterranean Diet (MD) (KIDMED). Factors influencing dietary patterns were investigated, with a multivariate logistic regression performed to identify key drivers for poor MD adherence (AOR 95% CI). Results: In total, 426 children (47.2% females) were interviewed. Over 20% of the sample was overweight or obese, with the prevalence of these diseases decreasing with age regardless of gender. The KIDMED score highlighted suboptimal MD adherence (4.6 ± 2.5 SD), with significant differences between females and males (4.1 ± 2.4 SD vs. 5.1 ± 2.4 SD, p < 0.001), especially in rural areas (3.9 ± 2.4 SD vs. 4.9 ± 2.5 SD, p = 0.003). Dietary quality tended to decline with age. Female gender was the strongest predictor of poor MD adherence (AOR 2.08 CI: 1.34–3.22; p = 0.001). Conclusions: The MD is a cornerstone for ensuring the Albanian population’s long-term health and well-being. This study holds significant public health relevance in a country with high mortality rates due to cardiovascular diseases. Future nutrition interventions focused on the poor MD adherence of new generations should take into consideration geographic, cultural, and social dimensions, including gender equality.
Projecting Climate Change Impacts on Benin’s Cereal Production by 2050: A SARIMA and PLS-SEM Analysis of FAO Data
Authors: Dossa Kossivi Fabrice , Bissonnette Jean-François , Barrette Nathalie , Bah Idiatou , Miassi Yann Emmanuel
Published: January 2025

Globally, agriculture is facing significant challenges due to climate change, which is seriously affecting grain yields. This research aims to analyze the significant effect of climate change (temperature and rainfall) on cereal production in Benin. The choice of Benin is explained by its strong dependence on agriculture and its vulnerability to climatic variations. This study employed climate and agricultural data from FAO and ASECNA (1990–2020) to evaluate the impacts of climate change on cereal production. SARIMA time-series models were used for forecasting, while the PLS-SEM approach assessed the relationships between climate variables and cereal production. The findings reveal a rise in temperatures and a gradual decline in precipitation. Despite these challenges, the time-series analysis suggests that Beninese farmers are expanding cultivated areas, successfully increasing production levels, and improving yields. Projections to 2050 indicate an increase in areas and production for maize and rice, while sorghum shows a constant trend. However, even with these projections, it is recommended to explore, in more depth, the resilience strategies used by cereal producers to better understand their influence and refine the orientations of future agricultural policies.
Current Advances in Flame-Retardant Performance of Tunnel Intumescent Fireproof Coatings: A Review
Authors: Tang Guochen , Shang Chuankai , Qin Yiwen , Lai Jinxing
Published: January 2025

As building safety standards keep escalating, research on intumescent fireproof coatings has garnered growing attention. Among them, tunnels, with their enclosed configuration and relatively high accident occurrence rate, impose higher demands on the environmental friendliness, durability, and thermal stability of fireproof coatings. At present, intumescent fireproof coatings have been extensively applied in tunnels; however, a comprehensive and in-depth overview of intumescent fireproof coatings and their application in tunnels is still lacking. This paper summarizes the fire prevention mechanism of intumescent fireproof coatings, the intumescent fireproof system, the impact of functional fillers on the fire resistance performance of intumescent fireproof coatings, and the application of intumescent fireproof coatings in tunnels. Additionally, we present the synergistic effect of the combined use of different functional fillers. Finally, some key challenges regarding the use of intumescent fireproof coatings in tunnel environments are put forward, along with prospects and opportunities.
Diagnostic Challenges of Traumatic Ulcerative Granuloma with Stromal Eosinophilia in the Hard Palate
Authors: Setti Giacomo , Caramaschi Stefania , Barile Giuseppe , d’Amati Antonio , Forte Marta , D’Albis Giuseppe , Bellini Pierantonio , Garuti Giovanna , Limongelli Luisa , Capodiferro Saverio
Published: January 2025

Traumatic ulcerative granuloma with stromal eosinophilia (TUGSE) is a benign lesion that may arise from the oral mucosa consisting in an ulcerative lesion usually localized in the tongue or cheek. Palate localization is very rare. Background/Objectives: The aim of this study is to describe a case of TUGSE occurring in the hard palate of an 83 y.o. female patient, manifesting as a non-painful growing palatal lesion approximately of 3.5 × 2 cm with firm consistency and a central area of erosion and erythema, the difficulties in clinical diagnosis, and the criteria for the differential diagnosis. Also, considering the rare occurrence of TUGSE in the palate, we performed a review of the literature too. Methods: A comprehensive review of the literature was conducted following the 2020 PRISMA guidelines and a total of seven records were identified as matching the inclusion criteria of this study. Results Conclusions: Although TUGSE is a benign lesion, the clinical presentation as a proliferative and ulcerative lesion may be challenging for clinicians mainly when arising in rare sites of occurrence (e.g., the hard palate).
Non-Instrumental and Instrumental Tools Validity in Bruxism Diagnostics
Authors: Popescu Adrian Marcel , Ionescu Mihaela , Vlăduțu Diana Elena , Popescu Sanda Mihaela , Marinescu Iulia Roxana , Scrieciu Monica , Mercuț Veronica
Published: January 2025

Background/Objectives: The study aimed to validate the diagnostic system proposed by the Standardized Tool for the Assessment of Bruxism (STAB) by correlating the results obtained based on questionnaire and non-instrumental and instrumental tools. Methods: The study had three stages (questionnaire, clinical examination, and electromyographic study). The subjects completed a questionnaire and clinical exam. Positive signs of bruxism included oral mucosal signs and the presence of dental wear according to the BEWE index. In stage three, sEMG was performed after allocating subjects into four groups according to the questionnaire and clinical exam results: sleep bruxism (SB), awake bruxism (AB), sleep and awake bruxism (SB AB), and no bruxism (no B). After the third stage, a new selection was made, and the subjects were divided into four groups, according to sEMG results. Diagnostic accuracy was computed for possible bruxism SB and grinding and clenching sound diagnosis, possible bruxism AB and AB acknowledgment, possible bruxism SB AB, and tooth wear index. Results: For SB, the sensitivity and specificity of the tools were the highest. The non-instrumental questionnaire and clinical assessment identified 67% of SB cases and 89% without SB. For AB, the specificity was higher (84%), while the sensitivity was lower (55%), as almost half of the subjects were not aware of the presence of AB. The tests showed a low sensitivity (15%) but a high specificity (83%) for tooth wear. The absence of tooth wear was frequently associated with the absence of bruxism, while the presence of tooth wear did not necessarily imply the existence of bruxism. Conclusions: Non-instrumental evaluation of bruxism through questionnaires and clinical exams is valuable, especially for SB. Instrumental evaluation through electromyography remains a gold standard for bruxism diagnosis.
An Economic Theory with a Formal-Econometric Test of Its Empirical Relevance
Authors: Stigum Bernt Petter
Published: January 2025

The paper contains five parts—a theory about entrepreneurial choice under uncertainty, a formal econometric structure for a test, the test, an appraisal of the test, and a description of the data generating process. Here, an entrepreneur is an individual who manages a firm that produces one commodity with labor, an intermediate good, and capital. He pays dividends to shareholders, invests in bonds and capital, and has an n-period planning horizon. Conditioned on the values of current-period prices, the entrepreneur aims to maximize the expected value of a utility function that varies with the dividends he pays each period and with his firm’s balance sheet variables at the end of the planning horizon. The test comprises a family of trials of theorems that I derive from the axioms of the theory part of the formal econometric structure. In the test, the theorems are appraised for their empirical relevance in an empirical context, where each one of a random sample of four hundred entrepreneurs has chosen the first-period part of his optimal n-period expenditure plan. My formal econometric arguments demonstrate that the theorems pass all the trials. At the end, I show that my formal econometric results imply that the theory is empirically relevant.
Efficient Threshold Attribute-Based Signature Scheme for Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) Networks
Authors: He Lei , Gan Yong , Yin Yifeng
Published: January 2025

Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) are highly versatile and cost-effective, making them an attractive option for various applications. In UAV networks, it is essential to implement a digital signature scheme to ensure the integrity and authentication of commands sent to UAVs. Moreover, this digital signature scheme not only maintains the real-time performance of UAVs while executing commands but also protects the identity privacy of the signer. To meet these needs, we propose an efficient threshold attribute-based proxy signature (t-ABPS) scheme that integrates a threshold predicate specifically designed for UAV networks. The formal security proof for the t-ABPS scheme demonstrates its existential unforgeability under selective-attribute and chosen-message attacks (EUF-sA-CMA) in the random oracle model. This scheme also ensures the identity privacy of the signer. Furthermore, we evaluate the computational costs and communication costs associated with the proposed scheme. Our analysis indicates that the t-ABPS scheme is more computationally efficient than other existing attribute-based proxy signature schemes, but it has higher communication costs.
Ex Vivo, In Vitro and In Vivo Bone Health Properties of Grana Padano Cheese
Authors: Martelli Cristina , Ottobrini Luisa , Ferraretto Anita , Bendinelli Paola , Cattaneo Stefano , Masotti Fabio , Stuknytė Milda , Dall’Asta Margherita , Del Sole Angelo , De Noni Ivano , Rossi Filippo
Published: January 2025

Grana Padano (GP) is an Italian hard cooked cheese characterized by a long ripening process and high protein and Ca contents. After in vitro static simulated gastrointestinal digestion, GP digest contained caseinophosphopeptides that were 6 to 24 amino acids in length, including tri-phosphorylated species incorporating the pSer-pSer-pSer-Glu-Glu cluster. Using rat ileum tissue, the digest was used to assess Ca absorption ex vivo, which showed significantly better results for the GP digest in comparison to the CaCO3 aqueous solution. An in vitro intestinal model based on Caco-2/HT-29 cell co-culture was able to mimic Ca absorption from GP digest, with Ca-rich water as a control. The metabolite-containing medium was then used to treat osteoblast-like SaOS-2 cells. As a consequence, metabolized GP digest significantly increased the number of osteoblasts, whereas the metabolized water did not exert this effect. Finally, the mice were fed diets containing GP or CaCO3 and pea isolate and the in vivo outcomes were assessed through fluorescent probe and computed tomography. Mice fed a diet containing GP showed a higher increase in bone remodeling and volume in comparison to those fed a control diet containing CaCO3 and pea isolate. Overall, the ex vivo, in vitro and in vivo experiments highlighted the effectiveness of GP in improving Ca absorption, osteoblast proliferation and bone remodeling and volume.
Comparative Proteomics of Two Flor Yeasts in Sparkling Wine Fermentation: First Approach
Authors: García-García Juan C. , García-Martínez Teresa , Román-Camacho Juan J. , Moreno Juan , Mauricio Juan C.
Published: January 2025

The traditional method is considered the highest-quality sparkling wine making technique. Its main characteristic is that the entire sparkling transformation takes place in the bottle, producing complex, refined wines with fine, persistent bubbles. Currently, the second fermentation in the bottle is initiated by a few commercially available strains of Saccharomyces cerevisiae. This lack of yeast diversity leads to a predominant uniformity in the sensory profiles of the final products and a lack of distinctive wines. The aim of the present study is to compare the proteomic profiles of the first flor yeast strain (G1) on the market for the production of high-quality sparkling wines with a new flor strain (N62) selected for its specific characteristics for potential use in sparkling wine production, such as flocculation, tolerance to high ethanol concentrations, and β-Glucosidase-positivity, which is valuable for improving wine aroma complexity. The results showed that these strains behaved differently in the middle fermentation tested: the strain that reached 3 atmospheres faster was strain N62, which achieved higher growth, viability, glycerol content, and volatile acidity. In G1, a higher ethanol content was reached, and lower growth and viability were observed. Key protein data support the relationship between these differences, and the proteomic analysis could show that strain N62 had a higher abundance of proteins related to protein synthesis, such as PAB1, TEF2, and RPL25; DAK1, GPP1, and GPP2 are involved in glycerol synthesis and PDC6 and ALD4 in acetate synthesis. In the case of G1, the abundance of ADHI is associated with ethanol production and cell wall proteins with YGP1, EXG1, SCW11, PST1, CIS3, and PIR3, while the onset of autophagy is associated with PRC1, PRB1, ATG42/YBR139W, PRE8, PRE9, and PUP2.
Enlightening Nursing Care: A Protocol for a Multicenter Observational Study Measuring Nursing Work in Hospital Settings
Authors: Bagnasco Annamaria , Di Nitto Marco , Marcomini Ilaria , Alvaro Rosaria , Lancia Loreto , Manara Duilio Fiorenzo , Rasero Laura , Rocco Gennaro , Caponnetto Valeria , Cesare Manuele , Longobucco Yari , Zaghini Francesco , Iovino Paolo , Burgio Alessandra , Landa Paolo , Zanini Milko , Zega Maurizio , Cicolini Giancarlo , Sermeus Walter , Drennan Jonathan , Welton John M. , Mazzoleni Beatrice , Sasso Loredana
Published: January 2025

Background: Rising costs and demands for improved quality of care present complex challenges for existing healthcare systems. The strain on healthcare resources is exacerbated by the increasing complexity of patient conditions. The Diagnosis-Related Group (DRG) system classifies inpatients according to clinical and treatment criteria, controls healthcare expenditures, and ensures the sustainability of procedures. The cost of nursing care is included in the DRG system in the same way as other fixed costs of hospital care, but the amount of nursing care provided for the same DRG can vary widely. This study, which is based on this protocol, will aim to assess the variability of nursing costs within and across DRGs and to measure how much variability in nursing care is explained by DRGs by comparing nursing care delivery in acute care hospitals with the DRG reimbursement system in Italy. It is necessary to develop a specific protocol to ensure systematic and consistent data collection at the national level. Methods: A multicenter retrospective cross-sectional study will be conducted. A random sample of five public Italian hospitals will be enrolled. Patients included in medical or surgical DRGs, hospitalized and discharged in 2022 will be included. Data will be collected retrospectively from two sources: hospital discharge records and nursing records. Inferential statistics will be used to assess the variability of nursing time and costs across hospitals and DRGs. Nursing costs will be determined by several factors, including time spent on nursing activities and the hourly wages of nursing staff. The time needed to complete each activity will be estimated by a convenience sample of nurses from the hospitals included in this study. The annual salary of nurses will be used to calculate the nursing cost per minute, multipled by the amount of time spent per each nursing activity. The cost per patient per day of hospitalization will be calculated. Conclusions: The results of this study will shed light on the variation in nursing care across different DRGs. This understanding will guide recommendations for optimizing healthcare resource allocation and enhancing the efficiency of the DRG system in Italy.
Validation of the Arabic Version of the Maslach Burnout Inventory-HSS Among Tunisian Medical Residents (A-MBI-MR): Factor Structure, Construct Validity, Reliability, and Gender Invariance
Authors: Henchiri Hamdi , Tannoubi Amayra , Harrathi Chayma , Boussayala Ghada , Quansah Frank , Hagan John Elvis , Mechergui Haifa , Chaabeni Amr , Chebbi Taha , Lakhal Tarek Ben , Belhouchet Hatem , Khatrouch Ikram , Gawar Abdulhafed Mabrouk , Azaiez Fairouz
Published: January 2025

Background: Burnout is a major problem for physical and mental health of medical residents. The key for maintaining well-being and quality of care of residents is the assessing tool. The study evaluated the psychometric properties of the Arabic version of the Maslach Burnout Inventory Human Services Survey (MBI-HSS) among Tunisian medical residents by assessing its factor structure, construct validity, reliability, and gender invariance. Methods: A total of 552 residents, aged 27.01 ± 1.92, 219 males (39.7%) and 333 females (60.3%) completed the Arabic version of the A-MBI-MR. The exploratory (EFA) and confirmatory factor (CFA) analyses were performed to identify the factor structure, with assessments of internal consistency of the model, including gender measurement invariance. Results: The results indicate a high average variance extracted (AVE > 0.50) and factor loading of the scale, signifying robust construct validity and clearly suggesting that the items serve as essential indicators for assessing several dimensions of burnout. The reliability analysis demonstrates excellent and acceptable internal consistency across all areas of emotional exhaustion, personal accomplishment, and depersonalization (Cronbach’s α = 0.95, 0.98, and 0.871) respectively. The CFA confirmed the three-factor structure of the A-MBI-MR, with fit indices indicating an adequate model fit: CFI = 0.945, TLI = 0.938, GFI = 0.951, RMSEA = 0.074, RMSEA CI (0.066, 0.081), RMSEA p-value= 0.000, SRMR = 0.044. Results from the measurement invariance analysis of the MBI scale demonstrated robust invariance between male and female participants. Conclusions: The MBI-MR in Arabic for medical residents is reliable, valid, and effective for measuring burnout levels in Arabic-speaking regions.
Three-Dimensional Digital Documentation for the Conservation of the Prambanan Temple Cluster Using Guided Multi-Sensor Techniques
Authors: Prasidya Anindya Sricandra , Gumilar Irwan , Meilano Irwan , Ikaputra Ikaputra , Muryamto Rochmad , Arrofiqoh Erlyna Nour
Published: January 2025

The Prambanan Temple cluster is a world heritage site that has significant value for humanity, a multiple zone cluster arrangement of highly ornamented towering temples, and a Hindu architectural pattern design. It lies near the Opak Fault, at the foothills of Mount Merapi, on an unstable ground layer, and is surrounded by human activities in Yogyakarta, Indonesia. The site’s vulnerability implies the necessity of 3D digital documentation for its conservation, but its complexity poses difficulties. This work aimed to address this challenge by introducing the utilization of architectural pattern design (APD) to guide multi-sensor line-ups for documentation. First, APDs were established from the literature to derive the associated multiple detail levels; then, multiple sensors and modes of light detection and ranging (Lidar) scanners and photogrammetry were utilized according to their detail requirements and, finally, point cloud data were processed, integrated, assessed, and validated by the proof of the existence of an APD. The internal and external qualities of each sensor result showed the millimeter- to centimeter-range root mean squared error, with the terrestrial laser scanner (TLS) having the best accuracy, followed by aerial close-range and terrestrial-mode photogrammetry and nadiral Lidar and photogrammetry. Two relative cloud distance analyses of every point cloud model to the reference model (TLS) returned the millimeter and centimeter ranges of the mean distance values. Furthermore, visually, every point cloud model from each sensor successfully complemented each other. Therefore, we can conclude that our approach is promising for complex heritage documentation. These results provide a solid foundation for future analyses, particularly in assessing structural vulnerabilities and informing conservation strategies.
Easy One-Pot Decoration of Graphene Oxide Nanosheets by Green Silver Nanoparticles
Authors: Ielo Ileana , De Gaetano Federica , Piperopoulos Elpida , De Luca Giovanna , Conoci Sabrina
Published: January 2025

In this study, we developed a facile one-pot synthesis of a nanocomposite consisting of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) growing over graphene oxide (GO) nanoflakes (AgNPs@GO). The process consists of the in situ formation of AgNPs in the presence of GO nanosheets via the spontaneous decomposition of silver(I) acetylacetonate (Ag(acac)) after dissolution in water. This protocol is compared to an ex situ approach where AgNPs are added to a waterborne GO nanosheet suspension to account for any attractive interaction between preformed nanomaterials. The systems under investigation are characterized by UV/vis absorption spectroscopy, dynamic light scattering (DLS), zeta potential (Z-Pot), and scanning electron microscopy with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDX). The stability of the AgNPs@GO composite suspension is tested as a function of GO concentration (0–67 μg/mL) while maintaining a constant Ag content (14.4 μg/mL), exhibiting excellent stability over time up to an Ag-to-GO mass ratio of 0.58.
Dysbiosis–NK Cell Crosstalk in Pancreatic Cancer: Toward a Unified Biomarker Signature for Improved Clinical Outcomes
Authors: Fanijavadi Sara , Jensen Lars Henrik
Published: January 2025

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is an aggressive cancer with poor prognosis, primarily due to its immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME), which contributes to treatment resistance. Recent research shows that the microbiome, including microbial communities in the oral cavity, gut, bile duct, and intratumoral environments, plays a key role in PDAC development, with microbial imbalances (dysbiosis) promoting inflammation, cancer progression, therapy resistance, and treatment side effects. Microbial metabolites can also affect immune cells, especially natural killer (NK) cells, which are vital for tumor surveillance, therapy response and treatment-related side effects. Dysbiosis can affect NK cell function, leading to resistance and side effects. We propose that a combined biomarker approach, integrating microbiome composition and NK cell profiles, can help predict treatment resistance and side effects, enabling more personalized therapies. This review examines how dysbiosis contributes to NK cell dysfunction in PDAC and discusses strategies (e.g., antibiotics, probiotics, vaccines) to modulate the microbiome and enhance NK cell function. Targeting dysbiosis could modulate NK cell activity, improve the effectiveness of PDAC treatments, and reduce side effects. However, further research is needed to develop unified NK cell–microbiome interaction-based biomarkers for more precise and effective patient outcomes.
Investigation of Exome-Wide Tumor Heterogeneity on Colorectal Tissue-Based Single Cells
Authors: Szakállas Nikolett , Kalmár Alexandra , Barták Barbara Kinga , Nagy Zsófia Brigitta , Valcz Gábor , Linkner Tamás Richárd , Rada Kristóf Róbert , Takács István , Molnár Béla
Published: January 2025

The progression of colorectal cancer is strongly influenced by environmental and genetic conditions. One of the key factors is tumor heterogeneity which is extensively studied by cfDNA and bulk sequencing methods; however, we lack knowledge regarding its effects at the single-cell level. Motivated by this, we aimed to employ an end-to-end single-cell sequencing workflow from tissue-derived sample isolation to exome sequencing. Our main goal was to investigate the heterogeneity patterns by laser microdissecting samples from different locations of a tissue slide. Moreover, by studying healthy colon control, tumor-associated normal, and colorectal cancer tissues, we explored tissue-specific heterogeneity motifs. For completeness, we also compared the performance of the whole-exome bulk, cfDNA, and single-cell sequencing methods based on variation at the level of a single nucleotide.
The Role of Systemic Health Indicators, Including C-Reactive Protein and eGFR, in Predicting Periodontal Disease: A Longitudinal Study
Authors: Ghanem Amr Sayed
Published: January 2025

C-reactive protein (CRP) and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) are key biomarkers reflecting systemic inflammation and metabolic dysfunction. This study explored systemic and oral health indicators, including CRP and eGFR, as potential factors associated with periodontitis, using a longitudinal clinical dataset comprising 23,742 records from patients identified by ICD-10 codes between 2015 and 2022. Univariate Cox analysis and Gompertz models, selected based on AIC and BIC after evaluating alternative models, were employed to assess the predictive roles of CRP and eGFR in periodontitis incidence, adjusting for oral and systemic health factors. Elevated CRP (>15 mg/L) and reduced eGFR (<60 mL/min/1.73 m2) were significant predictors of periodontitis, with hazard ratios (HR) of 1.36 [1.05–1.77] and 1.39 [1.08–1.78], respectively. Atherosclerosis (HR: 2.12 [1.11–4.06]), diseases of the hard tissues of the teeth (HR: 7.30 [5.45–9.78]), and disorders of the teeth and supporting structures (HR: 3.02 [2.05–4.43]) also demonstrated strong predictive associations. CRP and eGFR emerged as potential biomarkers for predicting periodontitis, enabling early interventions to prevent tooth loss and systemic complications. Patients with chronic kidney disease, atherosclerotic heart disease, and lipid metabolism disorders are at higher risk, emphasizing the need for integrated care addressing both systemic and oral health factors.
Quality Assessment and Host Preference of Telenomus podisi (Hymenoptera: Scelionidae) for Fresh and Cryopreserved Euschistus heros (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae) Eggs
Authors: Ramos Gabryele Silva , Hayashida Rafael , Ikuno Pedro Hiroshi Passos , Carvalho Vanessa Rafaela de , Hoback William Wyatt , Oliveira Regiane Cristina de
Published: January 2025

The development of the mass rearing technique for the egg parasitoid Telenomus podisi has been under study for about 20 years, with increasing attention on the development of quality control. Here, we evaluated the behavior, biological parameters, morphometrics and presence of endosymbionts of T. podisi produced in cryopreserved eggs compared to those produced in traditional fresh stink bug eggs. Parasitoids reared from cryopreserved eggs showed similar parasitism and emergence rates, sex ratios, longevity, morphometrics, and proportions of flyers compared to those originating from fresh eggs. Slight differences, including an increase in egg-to-adult development time and differences in the presence of endosymbionts, were observed. Despite these differences, we conclude that the use of cryopreserved eggs is suitable for T. podisi mass rearing, allowing more options for timed inundative parasitoid releases for biological control.
DNA Methyltransferase Expression (DNMT1, DNMT3a, and DNMT3b) as a Potential Biomarker in Age-Related Macular Degeneration
Authors: Camacho Pedro , Ribeiro Edna , Pereira Bruno , Nascimento João , Caldeira Rosa Paulo , Henriques José , Barrão Sandra , Sadio Silvia , Quendera Bruno , Delgadinho Mariana , Ginete Catarina , Silva Carina , Brito Miguel
Published: January 2025

Background/Objectives: Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a global cause of vision loss, with limited therapeutic options highlighting the need for effective biomarkers. This study aimed to characterize plasma DNA methyltransferase expression (DNMT1, DNMT3A, and DNMT3B) in AMD patients and explore divergent expression patterns across different stages of AMD. Methods: Thirty-eight AMD patients were prospectively enrolled and stratified by disease severity: eAMD, iAMD, nAMD, and aAMD. Comprehensive ophthalmological assessments were performed, including best-corrected visual acuity, digital color fundus photographs, and Spectral Domain Optical Coherence Tomography. Peripheral blood samples were collected for RNA extraction and qRT-PCR to access epigenetic effectors’ transcriptional expression, namely DNMT1, DNMT3A, and DNMT3B genes. The collected data were analyzed using IBM SPSS 29. Results: DNMT1 expression was significantly downregulated in late AMD (−0.186 ± 0.341) compared to early/intermediate AMD (0.026 ± 0.246). Within late AMD, aAMD exhibited a marked downregulation of DNMT1 (−0.375 ± 0.047) compared to nAMD (0.129 ± 0.392). DNMT3A and DNMT3B showed similar divergent expression patterns, correlating with disease stage. Conclusions: This study identified stage-specific transcriptional differences in DNMT expression, emphasizing its potential as a biomarker for AMD progression and a target for future research into personalized therapeutic strategies.
National Trends in Racial and Ethnic Disparities in Mortality from Mechanical Complications of Cardiac Valves and Grafts (1999–2020)
Authors: Kwon Ye In Christopher , Zhu David T. , Lai Alan , Park Andrew Min-Gi , Chery Josue , Hashmi Zubair A.
Published: January 2025

Background: The volume of cardiac valve and coronary artery revascularization procedures is rising in the United States. This cross-sectional study explores ethnic disparities in mortality in cardiac surgery attributed to mechanical failures of implantable heart valves and coronary artery grafts. Methods: We used the CDC Wide-Ranging Online Data for Epidemiologic Research Multiple Causes of Death database to identify patients whose single cause of death was categorized by complications of cardiovascular prosthetic devices, implants, and grafts (ICD-10 code T82) between 1999 and 2020. The Joinpoint software (version 5.2.0, National Cancer Institute) was used to construct log-linear regression models to estimate the average annual percent changes in age-adjusted mortality (per 100,000). These patterns were compared and stratified by sex, age (0–44, 44–64, and 65 years or older), and US census regions between White, Black, Hispanic, non-Hispanic, American Indian, Alaskan Native, Asian American, and Pacific Islanders. Results: Age-adjusted mortality due to mechanical failures of cardiac implants and grafts declined across ethnicities from 2.21 (95% CI 2.16–2.27) in 1999 to 0.88 (95% CI 0.85–0.91) in 2020. Black populations (1.31 [95% CI 1.20–1.42]), both men (1.56 [95% CI 1.37–1.74]) and women (1.02 [95% CI 0.90–1.15]) experienced higher mortality in 2020 compared to all other ethnicities. This disparity was pronounced in younger groups (age 0–64), wherein age-adjusted mortality among Black populations (0.18 [95% CI 0.13–0.25]) more than doubled that of White populations (0.08 [95% CI 0.06–0.10]). Conclusions: Over the last two decades, age-adjusted mortality due to mechanical complications of cardiovascular implants has declined significantly. However, Black men and women, particularly younger patients, continue to experience higher death rates compared to other ethnicities.
Research on the Pattern and Evolution Characteristics of Global Dry Bulk Shipping Network Driven by Big Data
Authors: Li Haijiang , Zhang Xin , Jia Peng , Ma Qianqi
Published: January 2025

The dry bulk shipping network is an important carrier of global bulk commodity flow. To better understand the structural characteristics and future development trends of the global dry bulk shipping network (GDBSN), this study proposes a framework for characteristics analysis and link prediction based on complex network theory. The study integrates large-scale heterogeneous data, including automatic identification system data and port geographic information, to construct the GDBSN. The findings reveal that the network exhibits small-world properties, with the Port of Singapore identified as the most influential node. Link prediction results indicate that many potential new shipping routes exist within regions or between neighboring countries, exhibiting clear regional clustering characteristics. The added links mainly influence the local structure, with minimal impact on the overall network topology. This study provides valuable insights for shipping companies in route planning and for port authorities in developing strategic plans.