bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Birthing parent adverse childhood experiences and risk of atopic diseases in 5-year-old children
Authors: Freeman Makayla , MacKinnon Anna L. , Anselmo Mark , Tough Suzanne , Tomfohr-Madsen Lianne
Published: January 2025

Following up on previous findings from the All Our Families (AOF) cohort, the current study investigated the relationship between birthing parent history of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and child atopy, including asthma, allergy, and eczema, at five years of age. Potential indirect effects were explored. Participants completed the ACEs scale, validated questionnaires of anxiety and depression symptoms, and reported on their and their children's atopic disease history. Archival analyses of AOF data (N = 3,387) was conducted using logistic regression and path analysis with counterfactually based indirect effects. Birthing parent history of ACEs was associated with an 18% increased risk of child allergy at five years (OR = 1.18, 95% CI: 1.09, 1.20). Exploratory path analyses indicated a significant indirect effect of ACEs through birthing parent history of atopy on child asthma, allergy, and eczema at five years. There were no significant indirect effects through birthing parent symptoms of anxiety or depression during pregnancy, at two or five years postpartum. Birthing parent history of ACEs, combined with birthing parent history of atopy, may elevate the risk of child atopy. This presents an opportunity for early intervention for children at risk of atopic disease.
Study of an arginine- and tryptophan-rich antimicrobial peptide in peri-implantitis
Authors: Zhang Qian , Jiang Yalei , He Xiaotong , Liu Liwei , Zhang Xi
Published: January 2025

The combination of hydrophilic arginine residues and hydrophobic tryptophan residues is considered to be the first choice for designing short-chain antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) due to their potent antibacterial activity. Based on this, we designed an arginine- and tryptophan-rich short peptide, VR-12. Peri-implantitis is a significant microbial inflammatory disorder characterized by the inflammation of the soft tissues surrounding an implant, which ultimately leads to the progressive resorption of the alveolar bone. This study found through antibacterial experiments, wound healing promotion experiments, and anti-inflammatory experiments that VR-12 inhibited and killed planktonic peri-implantitis-associated bacteria, inhibited biofilm formation, and disrupted mature biofilms. Additionally, VR-12 exhibited good biocompatibility with RAW264.7 cells and human gingival fibroblasts (HGFs) cells, promoting proliferation of both cell types. Moreover, VR-12 induced HGFs migration by promoting expression of migration-related factors, thereby promoting soft tissue healing. VR-12 also acted on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced RAW264.7 cells, exerting excellent anti-inflammatory properties by affecting the secretion/expression of inflammation-related factors/genes. Therefore, VR-12 may be a good option for both warding off and treatmenting peri-implantitis.
A novel non-invasive EEG-SSVEP diagnostic tool for color vision deficiency in individuals with locked-in syndrome
Authors: AlEssa Ghada N. , Alzahrani Saleh I.
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Color vision deficiency (CVD), a common visual impairment, affects individuals’ ability to differentiate between various colors due to malfunctioning or absent color photoreceptors in the retina. Currently available diagnostic tests require a behavioral response, rendering them unsuitable for individuals with limited physical and communication abilities, such as those with locked-in syndrome. This study introduces a novel, non-invasive method that employs brain signals, specifically Steady-State Visually Evoked Potentials (SSVEPs), along with Ishihara plates to diagnose CVD. This method aims to provide an alternative diagnostic tool that addresses the limitations of current tests.

Methods

Electroencephalography (EEG) recordings were obtained from 16 subjects, including 5 with CVD (specifically Deuteranomaly), using channels O1, O2, Pz, and Cz. The subjects were exposed to visual stimuli at frequencies of 15 Hz and 18 Hz to assess the proposed method. The subjects focused on specific visual stimuli in response to questions related to the Ishihara plates. Their responses were analyzed to determine the presence of CVD. Feature extraction was performed using Power Spectral Density (PSD), Canonical Correlation Analysis (CCA), and a combined PSD + CCA, followed by classification to categorize subjects into two classes: normal vision and CVD.

Results

The results indicate that the proposed method effectively diagnoses CVD in individuals with limited communication abilities. The classification accuracy of SSVEP exceeded 75% across the three classifiers: Decision Tree (DT), K-Nearest Neighbors (KNN), and Support Vector Machine (SVM). The SVM classifier demonstrated higher accuracy compared to the other classifiers, exceeding 90%.

Discussion

These observations suggest that the SVM classifier, utilizing the combined feature set of PSD + CCA, may be the most effective in this classification task. These findings demonstrate that the proposed method is an accurate and reliable diagnostic tool for CVD, particularly for individuals unable to communicate.
Using platelet concentrates to treat maxillofacial tissue lesions
Authors: Liu Ruijia , Chen Siqi , Wang Peng , Bi Ruiye
Published: January 2025

Objectives

Platelet concentrates (PCs), which are blood products that are abundant in platelets and growth factors, have become pivotal in treating maxillofacial tissue lesions due to their capacity for promoting bone and soft tissue recovery. This review will provide some recent progress of the use of platelet concentrates to treat lesions on maxillofacial tissues.

Subjects

We reviewed the mechanisms by which PCs promote wound healing and tissue recovery and summarized the application of PCs in the treatment of lesions on maxillofacial tissues, including medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw, post-extraction wound healing, implant surgery, temporomandibular joint diseases, and periodontal tissue restoration.

Results

PC promotes the attachment and proliferation of osteoblasts, as well as the synthesis and deposition of collagen fibers by stimulating the AFK pathway and releasing growth factors and cytokines, such as secreting GFs, VEGF, TGF-β, etc. They also induce angiogenesis, inhibit bone resorption, promote the healing of soft tissues, relieve symptoms, reduce postoperative complications and maintain implant stability.

Conclusion

PCs may be used as an adjuvant therapy in the treatment of lesions on maxillofacial tissues. However, more studies should refine the preparation and treatment methods for platelet concentrates and establish a foundation for their extensive application.
Review and characterization of the 2014 Orkney damage datasets for damage pattern mapping and fragility curve construction
Authors: Nqasha Thando , Akombelwa Mulemwa , Singh Mayshree , Kijko Andrzej
Published: January 2025

The 2014 Orkney earthquake caused significant damage to unreinforced masonry buildings in the surrounding townships. After the earthquake, field surveys were conducted to assess the extent of damage in the affected areas. This study reviews data collected from the 2014 Orkney earthquake to investigate damage patterns, evaluate building safety for occupancy, and support fragility curve construction. Damage was quantified based on the European Macroseismic Scale (EMS-98) to assess building safety and conduct regression analysis. The results indicate that the collected data is suitable for investigating damage patterns and determining building safety for occupancy. However, it is not suitable for constructing fragility curves. Empirical fragility curves are typically developed using logistic regression, but this study found the data unsuitable for regression analysis due to sampling errors and limited data quantity. This study recommends the use of first-order approximation methods to supplement the dataset, reducing sampling errors and increasing data quantity.
Impact of endoplasmic reticulum aminopeptidases 1 (ERAP1) and 2 (ERAP2) on neutrophil cellular functions
Authors: Saulle Irma , Limanaqi Fiona , Garziano Micaela , Murno Maria Luisa , Artusa Valentina , Strizzi Sergio , Giovarelli Matteo , Schulte Carsten , Aiello Jacopo , Clerici Mario , Vanetti Claudia , Biasin Mara
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Endoplasmic reticulum aminopeptidases 1 (ERAP1) and 2 (ERAP2) modulate a plethora of physiological processes for the maintenance of homeostasis in different cellular subsets at both intra and extracellular level.

Materials and methods

In this frame, the extracellular supplementation of recombinant human (rh) ERAP1 and ERAP2 (300 ng/ml) was used to mimic the effect of stressor-induced secretion of ERAPs on neutrophils isolated from 5 healthy subjects. In these cells following 3 h or 24 h rhERAP stimulation by Western Blot, RT-qPCR, Elisa, Confocal microscopy, transwell migration assay, Oxygraphy and Flow Cytometry we assessed: i) rhERAP internalization; ii) activation; iii) migration; iv) oxygen consumption rate; v) reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation; granule release; vi) phagocytosis; and vii) autophagy.

Results

We observed that following stimulation rhERAPs: i) were internalized by neutrophils; ii) triggered their activation as witnessed by increased percentage of MAC-1+CD66b+ expressing neutrophils, cytokine expression/release (IL-1β, IL-8, CCL2, TNFα, IFNγ, MIP-1β) and granule enzyme secretion (myeloperoxidase, Elastase); iii) increased neutrophil migration capacity; iv) increased autophagy and phagocytosis activity; v) reduced ROS accumulation and did not influence oxygen consumption rate.

Conclusion

Our study provides novel insights into the biological role of ERAPs, and indicates that extracellular ERAPs, contribute to shaping neutrophil homeostasis by promoting survival and tolerance in response to stress-related inflammation. This information could contribute to a better understanding of the biological bases governing immune responses, and to designing ERAP-based therapeutic protocols to control neutrophil-associated human diseases.
A framework for the simulation of individual glycan coordinates to analyze spatial relationships within the glycocalyx
Authors: Fritsche Sarah , Möckl Leonhard
Published: January 2025

The glycocalyx is a dense and dynamic layer of glycosylated species that covers every cell in the human body. It plays crucial roles in various cellular processes in health and disease, such as cancer immune evasion, cancer immune therapy, blastocyst implantation, and functional attenuation of membrane protein diffusion. In addition, alterations in glycocalyx structure may play an important role in ocular surface diseases, e.g., dry eye disease. Despite the emerging importance of the glycocalyx, various aspects of its functional organization remain elusive to date. A central reason for this elusiveness is the nanoscale dimension of the glycocalyx in conjunction with its high structural complexity, which is not accessible to observation with conventional light microscopy. Recent advances in super-resolution microscopy have enabled resolutions down to the single-digit nanometer range. In order to fully leverage the potential of these novel methods, computational frameworks that allow for contextualization of the resulting experimental data are required. Here, we present a simulation-based approach to analyze spatial relationships of glycan components on the cell membrane based on known geometrical parameters. We focus on sialic acids in this work, but the technique can be adapted to any glycan component of interest. By integrating data from mass spectrometry and quantitative biological studies, these simulations aim to model possible experimental outcomes, which can then be used for further analysis, such as spatial point statistics. Importantly, we include various experimental considerations, such as labeling and detection efficiency. This approach may contribute to establishing a new standard of connection between geometrical and molecular-resolution data in service of advancing our understanding of the functional role of the glycocalyx in biology as well as its clinical potential.
Diagnostic value of third-generation nanopore sequencing in extrapulmonary tuberculosis
Authors: Song Chang , Zhao Chunyan , Lin Yanrong , Nong Yingxing , Huang Aichun , Xi Shaoyong , Wei Xiaoying , Zeng Chunmei , Yang Shixiong , Zhu Qingdong
Published: January 2025

Background

This study aimed to explore the accuracy of third-generation nanopore sequencing to diagnose extrapulmonary tuberculosis (EPTB).

Methods

Samples were collected from the lesions of 67 patients with suspected EPTB admitted between April 2022 and August 2023. Nanopore sequencing, acid-fast bacilli (AFB) staining, DNA testing, and X-pert and mycobacterial cultures were performed. The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), negative predictive value (NPV) and area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) were calculated for different diagnostic methods, and their diagnostic accuracies were compared.

Results

Nanopore sequencing demonstrated the highest correct diagnosis rate among 50 positive EPTB cases, independently diagnosing 19 positive cases missed by conventional methods. Its sensitivity (62.00%), specificity (94.10%), PPV (96.90%), NPV (45.70%) and AUC (0.781, 95% CI: 0.67–0.89) were superior to those of conventional methods, such as AFB staining, DNA testing, X-pert, and solid culture, indicating its significantly efficient advantage in EPTB detection.

Conclusion

Nanopore sequencing technology significantly outperforms conventional methods such as AFB staining, DNA testing, X-pert, and mycobacterial culture to diagnose EPTB, promising to improve the diagnosis of EPTB.
Study on the effects of Massa Medicata Fermentata with different formulations on the intestinal microbiota and enzyme activities in mice with spleen deficiency constipation
Authors: Liang Xuejuan , Wan Dan , Li Xinliang , Peng Yanmei , Chen Linglong
Published: January 2025

Objective

This study aims to explore the therapeutic mechanism of Massa Medicata Fermentata (MMF) with different formulations on spleen deficiency constipation in mice by analyzing gastrointestinal hormones, D-xylose, intestinal microbiota, and intestinal enzyme activities.

Methods

A spleen deficiency constipation model was established using an oral administration of Sennae Folium decoction combined with controlled diet and water intake. After successful model establishment, the mice with spleen deficiency constipation were treated with MMF S1, S2, S3. Following the intervention, serum samples from each group of mice were collected to measure VIP, 5-HT, and D-xylose. Additionally, small intestine contents were analyzed for intestinal enzyme activity and subjected to 16S rRNA high-throughput sequencing.

Results

Mice with spleen deficiency constipation showed significant decreases in body weight and fecal water content. In contrast, the body weight of the CS2 and CS3 groups returned to normal levels, and fecal water content in the CS2 and CS3 groups also returned to normal. The MMF S2 and S3 significantly increased protease and sucrase enzymes levels compared with CM group. Serum D-xylose levels were significantly reduced in the CM and CS2 group. VIP levels increased significantly in the CM group but decreased in the CS2 and CS3 groups. Additionally, 5-HT levels in the CM and CS1 groups decreased significantly, with the CS2 group returning to normal and the CS3 group showing significant increases. 16S rRNA sequencing analysis revealed that all three MMF formulations effectively restored the intestinal microbiota composition in mice. LEfSe analysis identified characteristic microbiota linked to different intervention groups. The CS3 group significantly upregulated the chloroalkane and chloroalkene degradation and vibrio cholerae pathogenic cycle pathways compared to the CM group. Candidatus_Arthromitus in the CS3 group and Psychrobacter in the CS2 group were positive and negative correlations with 5-HT and VIP, respectively.

Conclusion

The three formulations of MMF significantly alleviated spleen deficiency constipation symptoms by modulating intestinal enzyme activities, D-xylose, VIP, and 5-HT levels, and restoring intestinal microbiota balance. Psychrobacter and Candidatus_Arthromitus were identified as potential biomarkers for the treatment of spleen deficiency constipation. Different formulations of MMF have different mechanisms of regulating constipation through intestinal microbiota.
Gender, language and labour: gender perception of Estonian and Russian occupational titles
Authors: Kaukonen Elisabeth , Oskolskaia Polina , Lindström Liina , Marling Raili
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Current research on occupational gender stereotypes in language has indicated that gender bias is influenced by various aspects, including social knowledge about roles associated with either men or women as well as linguistic information. This study focuses on gender perception of language users of Estonian and Russian. The former is a grammatically genderless Finno-Ugric language, while the latter has grammatical gender. Based on previous studies, we investigate whether occupational gender stereotypes in these languages are evoked by social beliefs, stereotypes and other extralinguistic factors and/or by language. Additionally, we examine whether the extent of gender bias varies across these languages.

Methods

Two separate web-based Likert scale surveys were conducted, one in Estonian and the other in Russian. The surveys included sentences featuring 36 occupational titles in Estonian and 34 in Russian. Data were analyzed using R software, employing principal component analysis and binomial logistic regression models.

Results

A total of 581 Estonian-speaking as well as 326 Russian-speaking participants took part in the study. Analyses revealed that biased responses were primarily influenced by social knowledge, followed by the influence of language. In Russian, results indicated that stereotypical information often overrides linguistic cues.

Discussion

The results suggest that gender perceptions are shaped by social knowledge and stereotypes, which work in cooperation with language. Based on these results, we propose that Estonian, while grammatically genderless and thus seemingly gender neutral, evokes as much or even more bias than grammatically gendered Russian.
Salivary cardiac troponin does not correlate with serum levels
Authors: Tran Hoa , Vu Vu Hoang , Pham Quang Dang Duy , Tran Duc Minh , Nguyen Suong Thi Bang , Truong Vien Thanh , Truong Binh Quang
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Several studies suggest a potential correlation between troponin levels detected in serum and saliva. However, prior investigations have not adequately addressed the critical aspect of collecting samples upon admission, which is essential for timely troponin level determination. This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between troponin levels in serum and saliva among patients admitted for chest pain evaluation.

Methods

This observational study was conducted at the Interventional Cardiology Department of the University Medical Center HCMC. Patients presenting with chest pain were enrolled, and unstimulated saliva samples were collected using the Navazesh method simultaneously with the initial blood collection. These samples were then analyzed for levels of salivary troponin I, serum troponin I, and serum high-sensitive troponin T.

Results

Among the 48 patients included, 22 (46%) exhibited myocardial injury, while 12 (25%) were diagnosed with acute myocardial infarction. No significant difference was observed in salivary troponin I levels between the non-myocardial injury and myocardial injury groups (p = 0.425). Moreover, no correlation was found between salivary troponin I levels and either serum troponin T or serum troponin I levels (Pearson correlation p = 0.761, 0.500; Spearman correlation p = 0.857, 0.136, respectively). The ROC curve for salivary troponin I in predicting myocardial injury displayed an AUC of 0.566 (95% CI: 0.402–0.731), indicating poor discriminatory power.

Conclusions

In our investigation, salivary troponin I failed to demonstrate a meaningful correlation with serum troponins, thereby limiting its practical utility in diagnosing myocardial injury or myocardial infarction. Further research is warranted to explore its diagnostic reliability and clinical applicability.
Association between red blood cell distribution width-to-albumin ratio and prognosis in post-cardiac arrest patients: data from the MIMIC-IV database
Authors: Cai Yinhe , Zhang Yao , Zhou Ningzhi , Tang Yong , Zheng Haixia , Liu Hong , Liang Jiahua , Zeng Ruixiang , Song Shengqing , Xia Yu
Published: January 2025

Background

Cardiac arrest (CA) triggers a systemic inflammatory response, resulting in brain and cardiovascular dysfunction. The red blood cell distribution width (RDW)-to-albumin ratio (RAR) has been widely explored in various inflammation-related diseases. However, the predictive value of RAR for the prognosis of CA remains unclear. We aimed to explore the correlation between the RAR index and the 30- and 180-day mortality risks in post-CA patients.

Methods

Clinical data were extracted from the MIMIC-IV database. The enrolled patients were divided into three tertiles based on their RAR levels (<3.7, 3.7–4.5, >4.5). Restricted cubic spline, Kaplan–Meier (K-M) survival curves, and Cox proportional hazards regression model were used to explicate the relationship between the RAR index and all-cause mortality risk. Subgroup analyses were also conducted to increase stability and reliability. The receiver operator characteristic (ROC) analysis was used to assess the predictive ability of the RAR index, red blood cell distribution width, and serum albumin for 180-day all-cause mortality.

Results

A total of 612 patients were eligible, including 390 men, with a mean age of 64.1 years. A non-linear relationship was observed between the RAR index and 180-day all-cause mortality, with a hazards ratio (HR) >1 when the RAR level exceeded 4.54. The K-M survival curve preliminarily indicated that patients in higher tertiles (T2 and T3) of the RAR index presented lower 30- and 180-day survival rates. An elevated RAR index was significantly associated with an increased 30-day [adjusted HR: 1.08, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.01–1.15] and 180-day (adjusted HR: 1.09, 95% CI: 1.03–1.16) mortality risk. According to the ROC curve analysis, the RAR index outperformed the RDW and albumin in predicting all-cause 180-day mortality [0.6404 (0.5958–0.6850) vs. 0.6226 (0.5774–0.6679) vs. 0.3841 (0.3390–0.4291)]. The prognostic value of the RAR index for 180-day mortality was consistent across subgroups, and a significant interaction was observed in patients who were white, those with chronic pulmonary disease, or those without cerebrovascular disease.

Conclusion

The RAR index is an independent risk factor for 30- and 180-day all-cause mortality in post-CA patients. The higher the RAR index, the higher the mortality. An elevated RAR index may be positively associated with adverse prognosis in post-CA patients, which can remind clinicians to quickly assess these patients.
Seismic prediction technology for thin reservoirs of tight gas in coal measure strata: a case study of Block L in the eastern margin of the Ordos Basin
Authors: Qi Yu , Wu Kui , Li Qixin , Zheng Xiaowen , Wang Bo , Li Dan , Tang Wei
Published: January 2025

The development of high-accuracy seismic prediction technology, capable of mitigating the influence of coal events and accurately inverting key reservoir parameters, is critical for enhancing the exploration and development of tight gas reservoirs in coal-bearing strata. Block L, located on the eastern edge of the Ordos Basin, serves as a case study. This area, where tight sandstone gas deposits are widespread in the Upper Paleozoic, is characterized by coal seams that complicate seismic interpretation. The available drilling data show that the tight gas layers in the Taiyuan and Benxi Formations are well-developed and serve as the primary hydrocarbon source rocks. However, the low-density, low-velocity coal seams create strong wave impedance contrasts, which significantly affect the neighboring tight sandstone gas layers and present substantial challenges for seismic prediction. To address this issue, we employ wavelet decomposition and reconstruction techniques to eliminate coal seam interference and high-resolution waveform simulation technology for seismic prediction of thin reservoirs. This approach circumvents the limitations of using a single impedance parameter to differentiate between sand–mudstone and limestone–coal interfaces. Step-by-step inversion and gradual stripping techniques are applied to remove the influences of coal seam and limestone, thereby facilitating accurate identification of sandstone distribution. Drilling data confirm the reliability and effectiveness of this reservoir prediction method for coal-bearing strata. Based on successful applications in the eastern Ordos Basin, this workflow demonstrates broad applicability and offers significant guidance for exploring similar reservoirs, given the parallel reservoir characteristics and the foundational technological approach.
Divergence correction for three-dimensional magnetotelluric forward modelling with arbitrary electrical anisotropy
Authors: Yu Guo , Han Jing
Published: January 2025

This paper presents an enhanced framework for three-dimensional (3D) magnetotelluric (MT) forward modeling that incorporates a current density divergence correction procedure for arbitrary anisotropic conditions. The method accelerates the convergence of iterative solvers in solving forward equations in anisotropic media. The divergence correction is adapted from techniques initially developed for isotropic MT modeling. Through four numerical examples—a 1D anisotropic model, a 2D anisotropic model with an infinite lateral fault overlying perfect conductor, a 2D anisotropic model with upper and lower structure and a challenging 3D anisotropic model with random parameters—the validity and efficiency of the proposed approach are demonstrated. The results show that the incorporation of divergence correction significantly reduces the number of iterations required for convergence, improving computational performance and stability. The framework proves robust even in demanding scenarios involving long periods and complex anisotropic structures.
Mitochondrial oxygen metabolism as a potential predictor of weight loss after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy for class III obesity
Authors: Engelmann Markus , Götze Juliane , Baumbach Philipp , Neu Charles , Settmacher Utz , Ardelt Michael , Kissler Hermann , Coldewey Sina M.
Published: January 2025

The prevalence of obesity is increasing at an alarming rate in industrialized countries. Obesity is a systemic disease that causes not only macroscopic alterations, but also mitochondrial dysfunction. Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) poses a potential therapeutic option for patients with severe obesity. In order to ascertain the efficacy of bariatric interventions, it is important to assess not only weight loss, but also changes in body composition. Additionally, the aim of this study was to investigate the association between weight loss and cellular oxygen metabolism, a surrogate for mitochondrial function. We used bioimpedance analysis (BIA) to assess changes in weight and body composition in patients up to one year after LSG. To evaluate mitochondrial oxygen metabolism, we used the Cellular Oxygen Metabolism Monitor (COMET) to non-invasively measure the mitochondrial oxygen tension (mitoPO2), mitochondrial oxygen consumption (mitoVO2) and mitochondrial oxygen delivery (mitoDO2). We compared the values obtained in patients with obesity with those of age- and sex-matched healthy controls and investigated changes up to one year after LSG. 48 patients (46.5 years [35.5-55.3]; 38/48 female (79.2%); BMI 46.7 [42.5-51.0]) completed the study. They showed a significant weight loss and a decrease in relative fat mass after six months. We found no differences in mitochondrial oxygen metabolism between obese patients and healthy controls. MitoPO2, mitoVO2 and mitoDO2 did not change up to one year after surgery. It is noteworthy that patients who exhibited higher mitoPO2, mitoVO2, and mitoDO2 values prior to surgery demonstrated superior weight loss outcomes one year after LSG. This was the first study to investigate the non-invasively measured mitochondrial oxygen metabolism in the long-term course after bariatric surgery. Further studies in larger cohorts are needed to confirm these findings.

Clinical trial registration

https://www.bfarm.de/DE/Das-BfArM/Aufgaben/Deutsches-Register-Klinischer-Studien/_node.html, identifier DRKS00015891.
Association between triglyceride glucose index-related indices and kidney stones in adults based on NHANES 2007–2020
Authors: Liu Ming , Yang Ping , Gou Yunpeng
Published: January 2025

Background

The triglyceride-glucose (TyG) index and related indices, including the triglyceride-glucose body mass index (TyG-BMI), triglyceride-glucose waist circumference (TyG-WC), and triglyceride-glucose waist-to-height ratio (TyG-WHtR), are increasingly recognized as valuable markers of insulin resistance (IR). This study aimed to assess the associations between these TyG-related indices and kidney stones.

Methods

This cross-sectional study analyzed data from 10,824 participants obtained from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) conducted between 2007 and 2020. Weighted logistic regression models were employed to evaluate the associations between TyG-related indices and kidney stones, with adjustments for potential confounding factors. Subgroup analyses and smooth curve fittings were performed to further examine these associations, while receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were used to compare the predictive performance of each index.

Results

All TyG-related indices demonstrated significant positive associations with kidney stones when analyzed as continuous variables. The odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) were 1.0040 (1.0028, 1.0052) for TyG-BMI, 1.0015 (1.0011, 1.0020) for TyG-WC, and 1.3305 (1.2277, 1.4419) for TyG-WHtR. Similar trends were observed in subgroup and smooth curve analyses. When stratified into tertiles, higher tertiles of each TyG-related index were associated with increased odds of kidney stones. TyG-WC demonstrated the strongest predictive capability for kidney stones (AUC = 0.6158), followed closely by TyG-WHtR (AUC = 0.6156) and TyG-BMI (AUC = 0.5949), with TyG showing the lowest AUC (0.5815).

Conclusion

This study identified significant positive associations between TyG-related indices and kidney stone formation. Among these indices, TyG-WHtR exhibited the highest predictive power for identifying kidney stone risk.
Prediction of critical heat flux in a rod bundle channel with spacer grids based on the Eulerian two-fluid model
Authors: Kejia Li , Xiong Zheng , Shuqi Meng , Desheng Jin , Yulong Mao , Yisong Hu , Youxin Zhou , Jun Chen
Published: January 2025

The critical heat flux (CHF) is a vital parameter influencing the safety and efficiency of reactor cores. In this study, the Eulerian two-fluid model coupled with the extended wall boiling model in STAR-CCM+ was employed to simulate the departure from nucleate boiling (DNB) phenomenon in a 5 × 5 pressurized water reactor (PWR) fuel rod bundle channel with spacer grids under non-uniform heating conditions. The transition in boiling curves was used as the criterion of DNB occurrence, while the temperature distribution of rod surfaces was utilized for CHF location predictions. The predicted CHF value and CHF location exhibited good agreement with the experimental data. The deviation between calculated and experimental CHF values was within 15% and the deviation between predicted and experimental CHF locations was within one grid-to-grid span length. The results of this study suggested good prospects for the application of two-phase CFD model in predicting CHF in fuel assemblies with spacer grids.
Microgrid system for electric vehicle charging stations integrated with renewable energy sources using a hybrid DOA–SBNN approach
Authors: Sai Eswar Kommoju Naga Durga Veera , Arun Noyal Doss M. , Shorfuzzaman Mohammad , Elrashidi Ali
Published: January 2025

Microgrid-equipped electric vehicle charging stations offer economical and sustainable power sources. In addition to supporting eco-friendly mobility, the technology lowers grid dependency and improves energy reliability. The manuscript introduces a hybrid technique for efficient electric vehicle (EV) charging integrating the Dollmaker Optimization algorithm (DOA) and spatial Bayesian neural network (SBNN). This method optimizes the joint operation of photovoltaic (PV), wind turbines (WTs), supercapacitors (SCs), and battery energy storage systems (BESSs) in microgrids to enhance EV charging station efficiency, reliability, and power quality while reducing grid outages. The SBNN predicts EV load demand for improved efficiency and reliability, while DOA manages microgrid (MG) fluctuations to ensure seamless EV charging. The MG system features a four-phase inductor coupled interleaved boost converter (FP-ICIBC) and a fractional-order proportional-integral-derivative (FOPID) controller for optimal power management. An evaluation in MATLAB compares DOA–SBNN with existing approaches, demonstrating its effectiveness in enhancing EV charging performance. The proposed method outperforms all current techniques, including the Multi swarm Optimization (MSO), the Multi-Objective Gray Wolf Optimizer (MOGWO), and the Modified Multi-objective Salp Swarm Optimization algorithm (MMOSSA). The results show that the energy efficiency of the recommended approach is 19.19%, 26.15%, and 32.57% higher than the three current techniques, respectively, and that of total harmonic distortion (THD) is 19.09%, 25.85%, and 31.17% lower than those three techniques, respectively.
Restoration of tropical dry forest: an analysis of constraints and successes across a highly threatened biome
Authors: Mesa-Sierra Natalia , de la Peña-Domene Marinés , Campo Julio , Giardina Christian P.
Published: January 2025

The tropical dry forest (TDF) biome has undergone a diversity of severe disturbances, with resulting transformations and continued pressures making this biome type one of the Earth’s most threatened. Supporting large numbers of native, often endemic species, fragments of TDF serve as important but precarious refugia. There are global efforts to restore this once extensive forest type, but the impact of TDF restoration on biodiversity and ecosystem function is poorly understood. Here, we present results from an analysis of 187 unique studies, published between January 1990 and February 2020, that examined a range of TDF restoration practices. We used a meta-analytical approach to compare survival, growth, and measures of ecosystem function in restored systems and either intact reference baselines or impacted controls. Understanding that social factors can represent over-riding constraints on restoration implementation or success, we also examined human dimensions variables, which were the least evaluated metrics in our review. We found that the survival of native species plantings showed high variability within and across regions and treatments – indicating a broad need for refined restoration prescriptions to better match practice to species and site. Synthesizing a global dataset provides insights needed to increase the success of TDF restoration.
The influence of contemporary and emerging factors on blood lead concentrations among young males in conflict with the law: a case study from a middle-income country
Authors: Mbonane Thokozani P. , Swart Andre , Mathee Angela , Naicker Nisha
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Scientific evidence shows that contemporary and emerging factors contribute to high blood lead concentrations in different populations. The study aimed to determine blood lead concentrations and risk factors associated with high blood lead concentrations among young males in conflict with the law.

Methods

A cross-sectional analytical study was conducted among 192 conveniently selected participants from two youth secure (correctional) facilities in Gauteng Province, South Africa.

Results

The study's overall blood lead concentration median was 3.30 μg/dl, ranging from 0.85 to 48.11 μg/dl. Young males born outside of South Africa (median = 8.78 μg/dl) and in villages (median = 4.95 μg/dl), working before coming to the facility (median = 5.23 μg/dl) and involvement in illegal mining (median = 9.00 μg/dl) had high blood lead concentrations in this study. Contemporary and emerging risk factors such as being born outside the country (AOR: 3.10, 95%CI: 1.01–1.88), involvement in illegal mining activities (AOR: 1.36, 95%CI: 1.14–1.91) and staying in a house with peeling paint on the outside (AOR: 2.26, 95%CI: 1.12–4.30) were found to influence blood lead concentration.

Discussion

The study findings show that contemporary (co-existing) and emerging factors influence blood lead concentrations. Therefore, there is a need to investigate these factors further in communities that may be affected. Lastly, there is a need for a holistic approach involving multiple sectors to introduce human lead concentration screening and preventive programmes.
Transcriptional engineering for value enhancement of oilseed crops: a forward perspective
Authors: Kaushal Charli , Sachdev Mahak , Parekh Mansi , Gowrishankar Harini , Jain Mukesh , Sankaranarayanan Subramanian , Pathak Bhuvan
Published: January 2025

Plant-derived oils provide 20%–35% of dietary calories and are a primary source of essential omega-6 (linoleic) and omega-3 (α-linolenic) fatty acids. While traditional breeding has significantly increased yields in key oilseed crops like soybean, sunflower, canola, peanut, and cottonseed, overall gains have plateaued over the past few decades. Oilseed crops also experience substantial yield losses in both prime and marginal agricultural areas due to biotic and abiotic stresses and shifting agro-climates. Recent genomic, transcriptomic, and metabolomics research has expanded our understanding of the genetic and physiological control of fatty acid biosynthesis and composition. Many oilseed species have inherent stress-combating mechanisms, including transcription factor regulation. Advances in genome editing tools like CRISPR/Cas9 offer precise genetic modifications, targeting transcription factors and binding sites to enhance desirable traits, such as the nutritional profile and chemical composition of fatty acids. This review explores the application of genome editing in oilseed improvement, covering recent progress, challenges, and future potential to boost yield and oil content. These advancements could play a transformative role in developing resilient, nutritious crop varieties essential for sustainable food security in a changing climate.
Integrative genomic analyses combined with molecular dynamics simulations reveal the impact of deleterious mutations of Bcl-2 gene on the apoptotic machinery and implications in carcinogenesis
Authors: Elamin Ghazi , Zhang Zhichao , Dwarka Depika , Kasumbwe Kabange , Mellem John , Mkhwanazi Nompumelelo P. , Madlala Paradise , Soliman Mahmoud E. S.
Published: January 2025

Objectives

Unlike other diseases, cancer is not just a genome disease but should broadly be viewed as a disease of the cellular machinery. Therefore, integrative multifaceted approaches are crucial to understanding the complex nature of cancer biology. Bcl-2 (B-cell lymphoma 2), encoded by the human Bcl-2 gene, is a critical anti-apoptotic protein that regulates cell death pathways, primarily by inhibiting apoptosis. It plays a pivotal role in maintaining cellular homeostasis by preventing premature or excessive cell death. Genetic variations and dysregulation of Bcl-2 are particularly significant in cancer, as they disrupt the normal apoptotic machinery, enabling cancer cells to evade programmed cell death. Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) are considered viable diagnostic and therapeutic biomarkers for various cancers. Therefore, this study explores the association between SNPs in Bcl-2 and the structural, functional, protein-protein interactions (PPIs), drug binding and dynamic characteristics.

Methods

Comprehensive cross-validated bioinformatics tools and molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. Multiple sequence, genetic, structural and disease phenotype analyses were applied in this study.

Results

Analysis revealed that out of 130 mutations, approximately 8.5% of these mutations were classified as pathogenic. Furthermore, two particular variants, namely, Bcl-2G101V and Bcl-2F104L, were found to be the most deleterious across all analyses. Following 500 ns, MD simulations showed that these mutations caused a significant distortion in the protein conformational, protein-protein interactions (PPIs), and drug binding landscape compared to Bcl-2WT.

Conclusion

Despite being a predictive study, the findings presented in this report would offer a perspective insight for further experimental investigation, rational drug design, and cancer gene therapy.
Genomic and physiological mechanisms of high-altitude adaptation in Ethiopian highlanders: a comparative perspective
Authors: Seifu Wubalem Desta , Bekele-Alemu Abreham , Zeng Changqing
Published: January 2025

High-altitude adaptation is a remarkable example of natural selection, yet the genomic and physiological adaptation mechanisms of Ethiopian highlanders remain poorly understood compared to their Andean and Tibetan counterparts. Ethiopian populations, such as the Amhara and Oromo, exhibit unique adaptive strategies characterized by moderate hemoglobin levels and enhanced arterial oxygen saturation, indicating distinct mechanisms of coping with chronic hypoxia. This review synthesizes current genomic insights into Ethiopian high-altitude adaptation, identifying key candidate genes involved in hypoxia tolerance and examining the influence of genetic diversity and historical admixture on adaptive responses. Furthermore, the review highlights significant research gaps, particularly the underrepresentation of Ethiopian populations in global genomic studies, the lack of comprehensive genotype-phenotype analyses, and inconsistencies in research methodologies. Addressing these gaps is crucial for advancing our understanding of the genetic basis of human adaptation to extreme environments and for developing a more complete picture of human physiological resilience. This review offers a comparative perspective with Tibetan and Andean highlanders, emphasizing the need for expanding genomic representation and refining methodologies to uncover the genetic mechanisms underlying high-altitude adaptation in Ethiopian populations.
A study on sexual violence among women in Northern Ethiopia's 2022 conflict: mixed methods
Authors: Kidie Atitegeb Abera , Masresha Seteamlak Adane , Ayal Birtukan Gizachew , Mekuria Kindie , Kodo Tsion Kokeb , Boye Abayneh Tunta , Tiruneh Misganaw Guadie , Bizuneh Fassikaw Kebede , Fenta Eneyew Talie
Published: January 2025

Background

Violence against women is both a human rights violation and a significant reproductive health issue, causing substantial morbidity. It's a pervasive global public health concern, particularly prevalent in developing regions like sub-Saharan Africa. Ethiopia faces this issue extensively despite its preventable nature, persisting as a significant challenge within the country.

Objective

The study aimed to identify the extent and factors associated with sexual violence among women, children, and adolescent girls during the 2022 armed conflict in Northern Ethiopia.

Method

A community-based cross-sectional study combined quantitative and phenomenological methods. We used multistage and snowball sampling, involving 574 individuals along with 10 in-depth interviews and 3 focus group discussions (FGDs). Statistical analysis relied on Stata version 16 and open code version 4.03. Quantitative analysis employed multivariable binary logistic regression, while qualitative data underwent thematic analysis.

Result

The study found a 9.76% prevalence of sexual violence, with 2.4% experiencing rape during the conflict. Prostitutes faced a fourfold increased risk (AOR: 4.2, 95% CI: 1.3, 10.9). Living in areas with attacks raised the risk 2.7 times (AOR: 2.7, 95% CI: 1.1, 6.2), and a monthly income of 2,001–4,000 ETB increased it 2.5 times (AOR: 2.5, 95% CI: 1.1, 5.7). The impacts included psychosocial effects, stigma, and fear of humiliation, divorce, and displacement.

Conclusion

Approximately one in ten women experienced sexual violence during the conflict. Factors such as being a prostitute, having a lower income, and living in attacked villages were significant predictors of this violence. The main impacts included psychosocial effects, external blame, and stigma, fear of humiliation, divorce, and displacement.
Predictors of client satisfaction with family planning services in Ethiopia: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Ayale Ferede Yeshiwas , Tassew Worku Chekol , Zeleke Agerie Mengistie
Published: January 2025

Background

The use of modern contraceptives by married Ethiopian women has increased over the past 15 years. Despite a few studies reporting different predictors of satisfaction with family planning services, there is a lack of nationwide data showing the determinants of client satisfaction with family planning services. Thus, this meta-analysis aimed to determine the predictors of client satisfaction with family planning services in Ethiopia.

Methods

From January 20 to March 10, 2024, a thorough search of the literature was conducted using PubMed, Web of Science, EMBASE, CINAHL, and Google Scholar. The quality of the included studies was assessed using the critical assessment checklist developed by the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI). The statistical program Stata 11 was used to carry out the analysis. Using Cochran's Q-statistic, heterogeneity was statistically assessed and measured by the I2 value. If significant heterogeneity was found across the included studies, a random effects model was used to assess the factors influencing client satisfaction with family planning services. Otherwise, a fixed-effects model was employed.

Results

Independent factors influencing clients' satisfaction with family planning services included waiting times of less than one hour (POR = 4.37; 95% CI: 2.05, 9.32), ensuring privacy (POR = 6.31; 95% CI: 2.78, 14.28), convenient opening hours (POR = 5.91; 95% CI: 1.61, 21.63), education level above primary school (AOR = 2.61; 95% CI: 1.02, 6.68), being informed about side effects (AOR = 3.08; 95% CI: 1.22, 7.74), and receiving adequate information (POR = 4.2; 95% CI: 1.87, 9.44).

Conclusion

The findings indicate that key factors significantly influencing client satisfaction with family planning services include reduced waiting times, privacy protection, convenient service hours, higher education levels, being informed about potential side effects, and receiving comprehensive information. These elements are critical for improving satisfaction and should be prioritized in family planning services. As a result, Ethiopian policymakers and decision-makers must devise plans to maximize client satisfaction with healthcare services through client-centered care.

Systematic Review Registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=563937, PROSPERO (CRD42024563937).